bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of FDM 3D printing process parameters using Taguchi technique
Authors: Sharma Kuldeep , Kumar Kapil , Singh Kumar Rishi , Rawat M S
Published: August 2021

Fused deposition modelling (FDM) is a fast growing and low-cost 3D printing technology in order to comply most prominent demands of today’s industries in terms of capability to fabricate complex parts along with high flexibility in design. The dimensional accuracy, is an urgent need of final parts printed by FDM process, that is primarily influenced by the process parameters. Optimizing the process parameters which significantly influence the dimensional accuracy is the primary goal of this study in order to achieve the ultimate final part quality. This experimental study investigates the effect of different process parameters viz. layer height, raster angle, nozzle temperature and surrounding pressure on thickness of the final part for Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) filament. Experiments, based on Taguchi’s L9 orthogonal array, were performed and subsequently experimental data have been analysed by ANOVA. It has been observed that the layer height is the most significant factor in order to achieve the dimensional accuracy.
Estimation of temperature during TIG welding of titanium
Authors: Raja Avinash Ravi , Dixit Anuj , Jain Ayush , Husain Syed Qaisar , Varshney Gagan , Singh Sudesh
Published: August 2021

In this experimentation work, the welding of titanium (commercially pure of grade 2) has been performed. The technique used to perform the welding is Tungsten Inert Gas Welding. Several experimentations have been performed to get the preferred welding. On which further studies have been done. Temperature has been measured during the welding process to get the estimation.
Modelling and Analysis of SUV Chassis
Authors: Manikandan H , Cyril S
Published: August 2021

Truck chassis is like a skeleton of the vehicle. The chassis undergoes various stresses and deformation, when the vehicle is in motion. The present work aims at deriving the static and dynamic characteristics of the chassis, by modelling the chassis and carrying out meshing and then subjecting it to static and dynamic analysis as well as modal analysis. Various materials were chosen for doing the Finite Element Analysis. Modal analysis is done by attuning the selective material properties and the predicted natural frequencies and mode shapes were validated against experimental results. The final results were incorporated in the model to optimise the chassis with respect to strength, vibration and weight.
Substrate material selection and design optimization of patch antenna
Authors: Dubey Anil Kumar
Published: August 2021

In this paper parametric analysis of different substrate materials used for microstrip patch antenna are analyzed based on its physical properties, also parametric calculation performed for selection of substrate working at operating frequency of 5.8 GHz. Proposed microstrip patch antenna was optimized by varying its design structure from rectangular patch to E-shaped structure. Method of moment based electromagnetic simulator IE3D was used for parametric calculation and optimization of proposed patch antenna design.
A review on superhydrophobic materials and coating techniques
Authors: Mishra Vipul Kumar , Saini R , Kumar N
Published: August 2021

Since the recent year, we have seen the interest in scientist to mimic the natural behaviour, and they tried to mimic the nature’s property of superhydrophobicity artificially and very far they also get succeeded. This superhydrophobic property is very useful in many aspects of life as well as in industries as they have an extensive property to overcame wear, corrosion, biofouling etc. There are different ways to fabricate these coatings, some are chemical and some are physical. In this review paper, we have discussed the theoretical background of superhydrophobicity and discussed the need for a surface to become superhydrophobic like surface energy and roughness and also different ways of fabrication in which some are simple and cost-effective and some are very useful for industries. Also, there are different examples of materials that can show superhydrophobic properties.
Characterization of electric discharge machining of titanium alloy utilizing MEIOT technique for orthopedic implants
Authors: Prabhakar B S Manoj , R Ranjith , S Venkatesan
Published: August 2021

In this research work, medical grade titanium alloy Ti4Al6V was electric discharge machined with an objective of attaining mirror finish for orthopedic implants. Experiments were conducted by varying tool materials, discharge current, pulse on time and pulse off time whereas the responses chronicled are material removal rate, electrode wear rate and surface roughness. The aluminium (A), copper (C) and aluminium alloy reinforced with graphite particles of various weight percentage (5-A1,10-A2,15-A3) were used as tool materials. The composites were fabricated using stir casting technique. The findings showed that the titanium alloy machined with A1 composite tool offers the highest MRR, the C tool has the lowest EWR, and the A2 composite tool results in good surface finish. The surface of specimens produced using A1 tool exhibits poor surface quality owing to the eczema surface. Specimens machined with the C tool have a remelted layer, pockmarks, and an uneven fusion structure, which were not present in specimens machined with the A2 tool. MOORA-ELECTRE Integrated Optimization Technique (MEIOT) was applied to select the best parametric combination and the best electrode material.
Pectate lyase action in vivo and fruit softening. A commentary on: ‘Fruit softening: evidence for pectate lyase action in vivo in date (Phoenix dactylifera) and rosaceous fruit cell walls’
Authors: Seymour Graham B
Published: August 2021

This article comments on:

Thurayya Z. S. Al Hinai, Robert A. M. Vreeburg, C. Logan Mackay, Lorna Murray, Ian H. Sadler and Stephen C. Fry. Fruit softening: evidence for pectate lyase action in vivo in date (Phoenix dactylifera) and rosaceous fruit cell walls, Annals of Botany, Volume 128, Issue 5, 8 October 2021, Pages 511–526, https://doi.org/10.1093/aob/mcab072
cblaster: a remote search tool for rapid identification and visualization of homologous gene clusters
Authors: Gilchrist Cameron L M , Booth Thomas J , van Wersch Bram , van Grieken Liana , Medema Marnix H , Chooi Yit-Heng
Published: August 2021

Motivation

Genes involved in coordinated biological pathways, including metabolism, drug resistance and virulence, are often collocalized as gene clusters. Identifying homologous gene clusters aids in the study of their function and evolution, however, existing tools are limited to searching local sequence databases. Tools for remotely searching public databases are necessary to keep pace with the rapid growth of online genomic data.

Results

Here, we present cblaster, a Python-based tool to rapidly detect collocated genes in local and remote databases. cblaster is easy to use, offering both a command line and a user-friendly graphical user interface. It generates outputs that enable intuitive visualizations of large datasets and can be readily incorporated into larger bioinformatic pipelines. cblaster is a significant update to the comparative genomics toolbox.

Availability and implementation

cblaster source code and documentation is freely available from GitHub under the MIT license (github.com/gamcil/cblaster).

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics Advances online.
MERIDA: a novel Boolean logic-based integer linear program for personalized cancer therapy
Authors: Lenhof Kerstin , Gerstner Nico , Kehl Tim , Eckhart Lea , Schneider Lara , Lenhof Hans-Peter
Published: August 2021

Motivation

A major goal of personalized medicine in oncology is the optimization of treatment strategies given measurements of the genetic and molecular profiles of cancer cells. To further our knowledge on drug sensitivity, machine learning techniques are commonly applied to cancer cell line panels.

Results

We present a novel integer linear programming formulation, called MEthod for Rule Identification with multi-omics DAta (MERIDA), for predicting the drug sensitivity of cancer cells. The method represents a modified version of the LOBICO method and yields easily interpretable models amenable to a Boolean logic-based interpretation. Since the proposed altered logical rules lead to an enormous acceleration of the running times of MERIDA compared to LOBICO, we cannot only consider larger input feature sets integrated from genetic and molecular omics data but also build more comprehensive models that mirror the complexity of cancer initiation and progression. Moreover, we enable the inclusion of a priori knowledge that can either stem from biomarker databases or can also be newly acquired knowledge gathered iteratively by previous runs of MERIDA. Our results show that this approach does not only lead to an improved predictive performance but also identifies a variety of putative sensitivity and resistance biomarkers. We also compare our approach to state-of-the-art machine learning methods and demonstrate the superior performance of our method. Hence, MERIDA has great potential to deepen our understanding of the molecular mechanisms causing drug sensitivity or resistance.

Availability and implementation

The corresponding code is available on github (https://github.com/unisb-bioinf/MERIDA.git).

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
NetControl4BioMed: a web-based platform for controllability analysis of protein–protein interaction networks
Authors: Popescu Victor-Bogdan , Sánchez-Martín José Ángel , Schacherer Daniela , Safadoust Sadra , Majidi Negin , Andronescu Andrei , Nedea Alexandru , Ion Diana , Mititelu Eduard , Czeizler Eugen , Petre Ion
Published: August 2021

Motivation

There is an increasing amount of data coming from genome-wide studies identifying disease-specific survivability-essential proteins and host factors critical to a cell becoming infected. Targeting such proteins has a strong potential for targeted, precision therapies. Typically however, too few of them are drug targetable. An alternative approach is to influence them through drug targetable proteins upstream of them. Structural target network controllability is a suitable solution to this problem. It aims to discover suitable source nodes (e.g. drug targetable proteins) in a directed interaction network that can control (through a suitable set of input functions) a desired set of targets.

Results

We introduce NetControl4BioMed, a free open-source web-based application that allows users to generate or upload directed protein–protein interaction networks and to perform target structural network controllability analyses on them. The analyses can be customized to focus the search on drug targetable source nodes, thus providing drug therapeutic suggestions. The application integrates protein data from HGNC, Ensemble, UniProt, NCBI and InnateDB, directed interaction data from InnateDB, Omnipath and SIGNOR, cell-line data from COLT and DepMap, and drug–target data from DrugBank.

Availabilityand implementation

The application and data are available online at https://netcontrol.combio.org/. The source code is available at https://github.com/Vilksar/NetControl4BioMed under an MIT license.
Individualized response to semantic versus phonological aphasia therapies in stroke
Authors: Kristinsson Sigfus , Basilakos Alexandra , Elm Jordan , Spell Leigh Ann , Bonilha Leonardo , Rorden Chris , den Ouden Dirk B , Cassarly Christy , Sen Souvik , Hillis Argye , Hickok Gregory , Fridriksson Julius
Published: August 2021

Attempts to personalize aphasia treatment to the extent where it is possible to reliably predict individual response to a particular treatment have yielded inconclusive results. The current study aimed to (i) compare the effects of phonologically versus semantically focussed naming treatment and (ii) examine biographical and neuropsychological baseline factors predictive of response to each treatment. One hundred and four individuals with chronic post-stroke aphasia underwent 3 weeks of phonologically focussed treatment and 3 weeks of semantically focussed treatment in an unblinded cross-over design. A linear mixed-effects model was used to compare the effects of treatment type on proportional change in correct naming across groups. Correlational analysis and stepwise regression models were used to examine biographical and neuropsychological predictors of response to phonological and semantic treatment across all participants. Last, chi-square tests were used to explore the association between treatment response and phonological and semantic deficit profiles. Semantically focussed treatment was found to be more effective at the group-level, independently of treatment order (P = 0.041). Overall, milder speech and language impairment predicted good response to semantic treatment (r range: 0.256–0.373) across neuropsychological tasks. The Western Aphasia Battery-Revised Spontaneous Speech score emerged as the strongest predictor of semantic treatment response (R2 = 0.188). Severity of stroke symptoms emerged as the strongest predictor of phonological treatment response (R2 = 0.103). Participants who showed a good response to semantic treatment were more likely to present with fluent speech compared to poor responders (P = 0.005), whereas participants who showed a good response to phonological treatment were more likely to present with apraxia of speech (P = 0.020). These results suggest that semantic treatment may be more beneficial to the improvement of naming performance in aphasia than phonological treatment, at the group-level. In terms of personalized predictors, participants with relatively mild impairments and fluent speech responded better to semantic treatment, while phonological treatment benefitted participants with more severe impairments and apraxia of speech.
Neural Basis of Somatosensory Spatial and Temporal Discrimination in Humans: The Role of Sensory Detection
Authors: Huang Cheng-Wei , Lin Chin-Hsien , Lin Yi-Hsuan , Tsai Hsin-Yun , Tseng Ming-Tsung
Published: August 2021

While detecting somatic stimuli from the external environment, an accurate determination of their spatial and temporal properties is essential for human behavior. Whether and how detection relates to human capacity for somatosensory spatial discrimination (SD) and temporal discrimination (TD) remains unclear. Here, participants underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging scanning when simply detecting vibrotactile stimuli of the leg, judging their location (SD), or deciding their number in time (TD). By conceptualizing tactile discrimination as consisting of detection and determination processes, we found that tactile detection elicited activation specifically involved in SD within the right inferior and superior parietal lobules, 2 regions previously implicated in the control of spatial attention. These 2 regions remained activated in the determination process, during which functional connectivity between these 2 regions predicted individual SD ability. In contrast, tactile detection produced little activation specifically related to TD. Participants’ TD ability was implemented in brain regions implicated in coding temporal structures of somatic stimuli (primary somatosensory cortex) and time estimation (anterior cingulate, pre-supplementary motor area, and putamen). Together, our findings indicate a close link between somatosensory detection and SD (but not TD) at the neural level, which aids in explaining why we can promptly respond toward detected somatic stimuli.
mRNA-Decapping Associated DcpS Enzyme Controls Critical Steps of Neuronal Development
Authors: Salamon Iva , Palsule Geeta , Luo Xiaobing , Roque Alfonso , Tucai Shawn , Khosla Ishan , Volk Nicole , Liu Wendy , Cui Huijuan , Pozzo Valentina Dal , Zalamea Petronio , Jiao Xinfu , D’Arcangelo Gabriella , Hart Ronald P , Rasin Mladen-Roko , Kiledjian Megerditch
Published: August 2021

Homozygous mutations in the gene encoding the scavenger mRNA-decapping enzyme, DcpS, have been shown to underlie developmental delay and intellectual disability. Intellectual disability is associated with both abnormal neocortical development and mRNA metabolism. However, the role of DcpS and its scavenger decapping activity in neuronal development is unknown. Here, we show that human neurons derived from patients with a DcpS mutation have compromised differentiation and neurite outgrowth. Moreover, in the developing mouse neocortex, DcpS is required for the radial migration, polarity, neurite outgrowth, and identity of developing glutamatergic neurons. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that the scavenger mRNA decapping activity contributes to multiple pivotal roles in neural development and further corroborate that mRNA metabolism and neocortical pathologies are associated with intellectual disability.
Early social context does not influence behavioral variation at adulthood in ants
Authors: Sanmartín-Villar Iago , Jeanson Raphaël
Published: August 2021

Early experience can prepare offspring to adapt their behaviors to the environment they are likely to encounter later in life. In several species of ants, colonies show ontogenic changes in the brood-to-worker ratio that are known to have an impact on worker morphology. However, little information is available on the influence of fluctuations in the early social context on the expression of behavior in adulthood. Using the ant Lasius niger, we tested whether the brood-to-worker ratio during larval stages influenced the level of behavioral variability at adult stages. We raised batches of 20 or 180 larvae in the presence of 60 workers until adulthood. We then quantified the activity level and wall-following tendency of callow workers on 10 successive trials to test the prediction that larvae reared under a high brood-to-worker ratio should show greater behavioral variations. We found that manipulation of the brood-to-worker ratio influenced the duration of development and the size of individuals at emergence. We detected no influence of early social context on the level of between- or within-individual variation measured for individual activity level or on wall-following behavior. Our study suggests that behavioral traits may be more canalized than morphological traits.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Rectal Cancer Treatment in Ulcerative Colitis Results in High Rate of Restorative Minimally Invasive Surgery
Authors: Carvello Michele , Bellato Vittoria , Maroli Annalisa , Hart Ailsa , Danese Silvio , Warusavitarne Janindra , Spinelli Antonino
Published: August 2021

Background and Aims

Few recent studies focus on the treatment of rectal cancer in patients with ulcerative colitis. We report treatment options and results for this subset of patients with a multimodal approach at two European referral centres.

Methods

Ulcerative colitis patients diagnosed with rectal cancer arising at less than 15 cm from the anal verge between January 2010 and December 2020 were analysed. Demographics, clinical data, and details of medical and surgical treatment were retrieved from prospectively collected institutional databases.

Results

Of 132 patients with ulcerative colitis and concomitant colorectal cancer, rectal cancer was diagnosed in 46. The median time between disease onset and rectal cancer diagnosis was 17.5 years; 21/46 were preoperatively staged as early tumours [cT1-T2/N0]. Eleven patients received neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced extraperitoneal adenocarcinoma, and the rest underwent surgery first. Over two-thirds of the procedures were restorative [68%]; a minimally invasive approach was used in 96% of patients, with no conversion to open. The median follow-up was 44 months. Local recurrence occurred in three patients [6%]. The cumulative 3-year cancer-specific survival rate was 94% [and the 3-year disease-free rate was 86%].

Conclusions

Rectal cancer in ulcerative colitis is a very complex condition. Our results show that surgery for rectal cancer can be delivered with excellent oncological and functional outcomes in patients with ulcerative colitis. A multidisciplinary discussion among surgeons, gastroenterologists, and medical oncologists is key to ensure the appropriate treatment pathway for individual patients.
Identifying and Predicting the Goals and Concerns Prioritised by Individuals with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Tse Chung Sang , Van Citters Aricca D , Ricci Brittany , Freundlich Noah Z , Lee Moses , Shah Samir A , Melmed Gil Y , Siegel Corey A , van Deen Welmoed K ,   IBD Qorus, Almario Christopher , Arrieta Rose , Banty Andrea , Bray Harry , Bresee Catherine , Carron Jessica , Charabaty Aline , Crate Damara J , Danielewicz Michael , Deitch Josh , Farraye Francis , Fasanya Helen , Flynn Ann , Gerich Mark , Gerner Donna , Ha Christina , Heagy Erica , Holthoff Megan , Hou Jason , Hudesman David , Hwang Caroline , Kaufman Lia , Kaur Nirmal , Kearney Kristi , Kennedy Alice M , Kim Betty , Kwon Michelle , Le Helen , Lum Donald , Mattar Mark , Metwally Mark , Mize Carrie , Morgan Emily , Morris-McCoy Linda , Nelson Eugene , Oberai Ridhima , Oliver Brant , Oonk Alexis , Ostrov Arthur , Pashby Teresa , Reddy Swapna , Roake Kami , Rubin David , Scott Frank , Shukla Richa , Singh Siddharth , Syal Gaurav , Traboulsi Cindy , Turner Quin , Valentine John , Vrabie Raluca , Walker Trisha , Weatherly Julie , Weaver Alandra , Williams Emmanuelle , Younes Ziad , Zisman Tim
Published: August 2021

Background and Aims

In order to provide high-quality care, providers need to understand their patients’ goals and concerns. This study aims to identify and predict the goals and concerns prioritised by patients with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] in the outpatient setting.

Methods

Mixed-methods analysis was performed to identify the types, frequencies, and predictors of IBD patients’ goals and concerns using 4873 surveys collected over 2016–2019 at 25 gastroenterology clinics across the USA participating in the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s IBD Qorus Learning Health System.

Results

Patients with IBD most often prioritised goals and concerns related to symptoms/disease activity [50%] and clinical course/management [20%], whereas psychosocial/quality of life [12%] and medication [6%] concerns were less frequent. Females (odds ratio [OR] 22.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] 5.3–91.5) and patients in clinical remission [OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.2–4.1] were more likely to prioritise family planning. Patients >60 years old [OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.5–6.5] and patients with active disease [OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.4–7.6] were more often concerned about travelling. Smokers were more often concerned about nutrition [OR 4.2, 95% CI 1.9–9.2]. Surgery was more often a concern of patients with perianal Crohn’s disease [OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2–3.5], active disease [OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.1–3.4], and those with recent hospitalisations [OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.2–5.4].

Conclusions

IBD patients prioritised the remission of physical symptoms as treatment goals and they were less frequently concerned about medications and their side effects. Patients’ demographics, IBD characteristics, and health care utilisation patterns can predict specific types of concerns/goals.
Poor adherence to guideline-directed anticoagulation in elderly Chinese patients with atrial fibrillation: a report from the Optimal Thromboprophylaxis in Elderly Chinese Patients with Atrial Fibrillation (ChiOTEAF) registry
Authors: Guo Yutao , Kotalczyk Agnieszka , Imberti Jacopo F , Wang Yutang , Lip Gregory Y H ,   ChiOTEAF Registry Investigators
Published: August 2021

Aims

Adherence to guideline-directed oral anticoagulation (OAC) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) improves outcomes, but limited data are available from China. We evaluated the adherence to guideline-directed anticoagulation and its impact on clinical outcomes in a high-risk cohort of elderly Chinese patients.

Methods and results

The Optimal Thromboprophylaxis in Elderly Chinese Patients with Atrial Fibrillation (ChiOTEAF) registry is a prospective, multicentre study conducted from October 2014 to December 2018. Endpoints of interest were all-cause death, thromboembolic (TE) events and major bleedings in patients with a guideline-directed indication for OACs (CHA2DS2-VASc ≥1 if male or ≥2 if female). The eligible cohort consisted of 5742 patients, of whom 2567 (44.7%) patients were treated with an OAC. Seven independent predictors of OAC undertreatment were identified: age [odds ratio (OR): 1.04; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.03–1.05; P < 0.001], first diagnosed AF (OR: 1.71; 95%CI: 1.44–2.03; P < 0.001), chronic kidney disease (OR: 1.67; 95%CI: 1.36–2.06; P < 0.001), liver disease (OR: 1.69; 95%CI: 1.19–2.41; P = 0.003), dementia (OR: 1.67; 95%CI: 1.06–2.64; P = 0.026), prior extracranial bleeding (OR: 1.89; 95%CI: 1.35–2.64; P < 0.001), and the use of antiplatelet drug (OR: 6.97; 95%CI: 5.89–8.23; P < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, OAC undertreatment was significantly associated with a higher risk all-cause death (OR: 3.79; 95%CI: 2.61–5.53; P < 0.001) and TE events (OR: 2.28; 95%CI: 1.39–3.72; P = 0.001), and a similar risk of major bleeding as compared with guideline-directed OAC therapy.

Conclusion

Only 44.7% of all eligible patients were prescribed OAC in accordance with guideline recommendations. The independent predictors for OAC undertreatment were age, first diagnosed AF, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, prior extracranial bleeding, and the use of the antiplatelet drugs. Guideline-adherent thromboprophylaxis was safe and may be associated with improved survival and less TE among elderly Chinese patients with AF.
The wild card: colonial paper money in French North America, 1685 to 1719
Authors: Cutsinger Bryan P , Geloso Vincent , Bédard Mathieu
Published: August 2021

We use the first French experiment with playing card money in its colony of Quebec between 1685 and 1719 to illustrate the link between legal tender restrictions and the price level. Initially, the quantity of playing card money and the government’s poor fiscal condition appears to have had little effect on prices. After 1705, however, the playing card money became inflationary. We argue that this was caused by the government’s increased enforcement of the legal tender laws and the adoption of a redemption plan intended to remove the notes from circulation.
Trends of adequate hypertensive patients from 2017 to 2019 in Portuguese Primary Health Care
Authors: Roxo Fernando , Santiago Luiz Miguel
Published: August 2021

Background

Arterial hypertension (AHT) adequate monitoring implies, follow-up, non-pharmacological and pharmacological therapeutic measures in the General Practice (GP). The Primary Health Care Identity Card (BI-CSP) platform collects wide-nation data, disaggregatable down to the level of the Regional Health Administration (RHA) and the Health Centres Cluster (HCC). We intended to study the trends of the indicator ‘Proportion of hypertensive patients with adequate monitoring’, April to June, 2017 to 2020, at the nationwide total and by RHA.

Methods

Cross-sectional observational study, of a sample of randomised HCC of each RHA. Data from April to June, 2017 to 2020, were collected from the BI-CSP for the health indicator. Trends were calculated for 2017 to 2019, for 2017 to 2020 and for the mean of the period 2017 to 2019 and 2020, nationwide and by RHA.

Results

At nation-wide level, a trends of Δ = +20.03 for 2017 and 2019, of Δ = -0.06 for 2017 and 2020 and of Δ = -0.18 for the mean of the triennial 2017–2019 period and 2020. At the RHA level, positive trends existed between 2017 and 2019. The trends between 2017 and 2020 were distinctively negative, more marked in the North (Δ = -27.33) but still positive for Algarve (Δ = +55.78).

Conclusions

The positive trends from 2017 to 2019 disappeared with the COVID19 pandemics. Harmful outcomes in the long term are so to be expected. RHA differences mean health inequities. Portuguese GP need new tactics to tackle the strategy of adequate control of AHT: Pro-activity in face-to-face consultations at well-defined times and distance contacts.
Self-medication habits during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Campos Erica , Espírito-Santo Margarida , Nascimento Tânia
Published: August 2021

Background

Self-medication is a common practice worldwide. During COVID-19 pandemic, the constant fear of going outside and to use health services may have had an impact in the number of visits to Community Pharmacies. This research aimed to study self-medication habits of the Portuguese population during the current pandemic, more specifically, to understand which non-prescription drugs and food supplements were taken and the situations that conduced to the use of self-medication.

Methods

An online structured survey was conducted, with data obtained anonymously and included 170 participants (≥18 years). Data were processed using SPSS v26.

Results

Participants in this study were mainly female (81.2%), with a mean age of 38.01 ± 1.16 years old and most (84.7%) over 12 years of schooling. Answers allowed to verify that the current pandemic didn’t affect that much the frequency of visits to Pharmacy and the situations where people used self-medication were mainly minor, such as headaches (54.1%) and muscle pains (26.5%). The medications used more often were analgesics (60.0%) and anti-inflammatory (40.0%). However, many people indicated that they didńt seek for more information about medicines (49.4%) and/or supplements (7.6%) used during this period. In general, people visited the Pharmacy with a similar frequency and purpose as the previous year.

Conclusions

Despite all the changes, the current pandemic has not negatively affected the practice of self-medication. The role of Pharmacy professionals in the rational use of the drugs, particularly those used in self medicated situations is essential, especially when the population shows low health literacy regarding the use of medicines.
Veggies4myHeart—a digital game to promote vegetable consumption in preschool children
Authors: Braga-Pontes Cátia , Simões-Dias Sara , Lages Marlene , Guarino Maria Pedro , Graça Pedro
Published: August 2021

Background

Vegetable consumption is particularly low in childhood and is one of the main concerns about diet in this age range. Vegetable consumption is associated with better cardiovascular health and the prevention of other chronic non-communicable diseases. Therefore, it is important to find strategies to promote vegetable consumption at early ages, since eating habits established in childhood tend to persist into adulthood. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of using a digital game on knowledge about vegetables and his consumption, in preschool children.

Methods

This is an experimental study conducted in a Portuguese preschool, with children from 3 to 6 years (n = 39). A pre- and post-test were conducted to determine vegetable intake (carrot, lettuce, cucumber, tomato and purple cabbage) and knowledge about vegetables. The intervention consisted of 20-minutes educational sessions with the digital game Veggies4myHeart, once a week for five weeks. A 6-month follow-up was realized.

Results

There was a statistically significant increase in the consumption of all vegetables from the pre- test to the post-test. Intake at follow-up was higher than pre-test for the five vegetables and the intake of cucumber and tomato was higher in the follow-up than in post-test. In the knowledge assessment, a higher number of correct answers were obtained in the post-test.

Conclusions

The use of the digital game ‘Veggies4myHeart’ had a positive impact on the consumption and knowledge about vegetables in preschool children. The use of digital games could be a useful tool for conducting nutrition education with preschool children.
The consumer perspective of labeling on foodstuffs—review
Authors: Abreu Bruno
Published: August 2021

Background

The information present on food labels is essential to provide consumers with proper guidance on the quality of food products, allowing the choice of a nutritionally balanced diet. Easy-to-read systems can help hungry consumers make healthier choices at the time of purchase. The goal of this research is verifying the efficacy of different food labels on foodstuffs by the consumer choices.

Methods

Scientific articles were analysed from 2016 to 2020, based on Pubmed and Google Scholar. Keywords such as food label, foodstuffs, food industry and consumer were used.

Results

From scientific research, six articles were analysed. Thus, it is estimated the analysis of 2069 participants were recruited through a large web panel provider. Age, gender, and socioeconomic status quotas were applied to recruit a diverse sample of consumers. The participants choose the healthfulness (less healthy, moderately healthy, healthier) of the foodstuffs. The Multiple Traffic Light led to significant differences in choices between healthier and less healthy products, but not moderately healthy products. No significant differences in choices were observed by product healthfulness when the Daily Intake Guide was present. The Nutrition Facts Panel was viewed for only 7% of all packages.

Conclusions

On some food labels it is possible to find wrong information due to the use of ambiguous and confusing words that are easily disseminated. Effective strategies are needed to promote both food choices made by consumers and food industry formulations. Nutrition is an essential key to maintaining health, so it should be done as an incentive to improve health.
Delayed antibiotic prescription in upper respiratory tract infections: a new trend?
Authors: Castanheira Carolina , Andrade Isabel , Cruz Rui
Published: August 2021

Background

Upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) are one of the main reasons for consultation in primary care. Approximately 60% of all antibiotic prescriptions aim at the treatment of URTI, even without a laboratory-based diagnosis. Delayed antibiotic prescription in primary care has shown to reduce antibiotic consumption, without increasing risk of complications, yet is not widely used. Rapid tests to confirm the etiology of URTI are available at pharmacies, but not purchased routinely. In this context, the aim of this study is to assess the knowledge of rapid tests for the diagnosis of URTI, and the awareness of strategies to decrease antibiotic use.

Methods

A team of experts in the field developed a questionnaire specifically for the purpose of this study. The Pharmacy graduate students of ESTESC-Coimbra Health School (Portugal) answered the questionnaire online.

Results

Over 90% of the respondents with a URTI stated that the general practitioner prescribed the antibiotic without a lab test. When given the option, 58% are willing to pay up to 50 Euros for a rapid test, yet are not familiar with any brand. Although the respondents aren’t familiarized with the concept, when asked, the majority (87%) are more likely to choose a delayed than an immediate prescription.

Conclusions

Pharmacy graduates are willing to support the use of delayed prescription, to give time for the lab confirmation of the diagnosis. A broader dissemination of the clinical evidence supporting the use of rapid tests and of delayed prescription is necessary to help managing URTI.
Prefrontal cortex oxygenation and sleep quality in cognitive dual-task—fNIR study
Authors: Saraiva Marina , Vilas-Boas João Paulo , Castro Maria António
Published: August 2021

Background

Previous studies suggest that poor sleep quality negatively affects the executive function of the prefrontal cortex and, consequently, the impairment of learning abilities. The aim of this study was to compare the oxygenated hemoglobin concentration ([HbO2]) during cognitive dual-task with subjective sleep quality in young adults.

Methods

Thirty-two healthy young adults (age = 23.13 ± 3.92 years, mean ± SD) were recruited according to the eligibility criteria. Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIR), oxygenated hemoglobin concentration ([HbO2]) was measured during quiet standing while performing a concurrent cognitive task - arithmetic and memory tasks (cognitive dual-task). The quality of sleep was assessed by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). After data processing, the Mann-Whitney test was used for comparison and the statistical significance level was set to P < 0.05.

Results

There were 59.4% of participants with a global PSQI score ≤5 (good sleep quality) and 40.6% with a score > 5 (poor sleep quality). No differences were observed in the mean of [HbO2] in prefrontal cortex during cognitive dual-task in young adults with good and poor sleep quality (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The results of this study do not support the possibility of increases in the hemodynamic response on the prefrontal cortex be expected due to a good sleep, once the sleep quality appears not to have a significant effect on [HbO2] in young adults during the performance of cognitive dual-task.
Effects of the first quarantine in seated time of the Portuguese population
Authors: Cavaleiro Alexandre , Marouvo Joel , Saraiva Marina , Santos Carlos , Castro Maria
Published: August 2021

Background

Seating for long periods is associated with several health conditions and increases the risk of death from cardiovascular disease and cancer. With the COVID-19 pandemic, confinement was declared to avoid transmission. This measure affected people mobility who couldn’t leave their homes. Though the present study aims to analyze the impact of this measure on the average seated time of the Portuguese population.

Methods

The study was based on an online survey, approved by the IPC ethics committee, that inquired about the meantime people were seated in a weekday before and during confinement. 536 Portuguese mean aged 42.2 years (±14.8) completed the survey. The valid responses were obtained from the 18th of March till the 30th of April 2020. The data of the average seated time in the two periods before (T0) and during (T1) the quarantine was analyzed through the Wilcoxon test.

Results

The table displays the average value (X) and the standard derivation (SD) of the seated time in a weekday (STWD), from our study. The statistics analysis (P) between T0 and T1 are present in the same table.

Conclusions

The STWD showed significant differences between both periods (P < 0.001). The average time in a sited position of this population had an increase greater than 2 hours during the quarantine.
New clusters of type 2 diabetes mellitus and their outcomes: relation between pharmacological treatment and previous cardiovascular events
Authors: Santos Claudio , Brito-Costa Sonia , Margalho Luis , Monteiro Pedro
Published: August 2021

Background

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is the most common form of diabetes in adults, with 90% to 95% of cases. This study aims to establish clusters and have knowledge about the relationship between previous cardiovascular events and pharmacological treatment for T2DM.

Methods

191 participants (EG) with T2DM with the average of 70.3 years (SD = 8.3) and 36 with pre-diabetes (CG) with an average of 62 years (SD = 10.3) who participated in clinical trials at Clinical Research Unit in Cardiology of Coimbra Hospital and Universitary Centre without cognitive difficulties, were divided in 5 different clusters. These were established based on six different variables: body mass index (BMI), age of each individual, age at diagnosis of DMT2, glycated haemoglobin value (HbA1c), homeostatic model that estimates the function of β cells (HOMA2-B) and insulin resistance (HOMA2-IR).

Results

Cluster 1 presented pre-diabetic individuals (15.9%), while diabetic individuals were divided into clusters 2 (1.8%), 3 (17.6%), 4 (21.1%) and 5 (43.6%). Regarding the study of the prevalence of previous cardiovascular events, the majority of individuals present in the different clusters had history of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). As for the prevalence of pharmacological treatment for DMT2, it was found that metformin was the most used drug. It was observed a relationship between previous AMI and metformin administration in clusters 3 (P = 0.0027; P < 0.05) and 5 (P = 0.0059; P < 0.05).

Conclusions

It was possible to create different clusters in a sample of the Portuguese population and to observe the existence of dependency relationships between different previous cardiovascular events and pharmacological treatment.
Detergent presence after washing dishes in a washing machine
Authors: Paixao Susana , Ferreira Ana , Figueiredo João Paulo
Published: August 2021

Background

Currently, about half of the European population has a dishwasher for domestic use and, following the trend of the last decade, this number is expected to increase in the coming years. Various types of detergents are available on the market for these machines, including some that incorporate chemical substances in the formula that can be harmful to humans. If machines are not able to efficiently remove detergent at the end of washing, chemicals can enter the human food chain and cause long-term damage.

Methods

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of dishwashers in removing the detergents used during the washing. The study was carried out in the village of Friúmes, in Penacova - Coimbra, in dwellings that had a dishwasher, ten machines were selected at random, located in different residences. The sample collected represents the execution of thirty analyzes in dishes and thirty in glass, with a phenolphthalein indicator.

Results

As a result of the study, and after finishing the washing cycle, the presence of detergent was detected in 4 dishes (13.3%) and in 10 glasses (33.3%), demonstrating flaws in the removal of the chemical during the washing period. It is verified that the number of chemicals increases at the end of washing, in the glasses compared to the dishes.

Conclusions

The design of the glass can have an influence on the results. However, further studies are needed as the bioaccumulation of these products can pose risks to people's health.
Benefits of two twelve-week multimodal programs on reaction time in community dwellings at risk of falling: preliminary results
Authors: Rosado H , Bravo J , Raimundo A , Marmeleira J , Mendes F , Pereira C
Published: August 2021

Background

A slower reaction time (RT) performance is considered a risk factor for falls. Different approaches as a psychomotor intervention (involving neuromotor exercises) or the whole-body vibration (inducing neurophysiological changes) may reduce the risk of falls. Nevertheless, a combined program may promote greater gains. This study aimed to investigate the acceptability and the effect of two multimodal programs on RT in community-dwelling older adults fallers or balance-impaired.

Methods

A total of 37 participants (74.3 ± 5.2 years) were divided into two groups (3x/week): experimental group 1 (psychomotor intervention); experimental group 2 [EG2] (combined program: psychomotor intervention + whole-body vibration). The Deary-Liewald reaction time task assessed RT. Simple and choice reaction time [CRT] (ms) tasks were recorded under single and dual-task (DT) paradigms. DT cost was also computed.

Results

The attendance rate was 86.3%. Wilcoxon test comparisons revealed significant differences between baseline and post-intervention evaluations in the EG2. The improvement was observed in the variable ‘CRT-DT’, in which participants spent less time to perform the task (1026.0 ± 153.4 vs. 960.4 ± 160.9, P = 0.040). The correspondent effect size was medium (r = 0.33). The DT cost was also decreased in CRT-DT by 3.9%. No significant differences between groups were found.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that both programs were safe and highly attended. The results suggest that a combined intervention (psychomotor intervention + whole-body vibration) should be privileged to improve RT and reduce the risk of falls. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03446352. Funding: This study was supported by the ESACA Project (Grant ALT20-03-0145-FEDER-000007) and by FCT (SFRH/BD/147398/2019).
Novel approaches to reduce the risk of falling in community dwellings: effects of two multimodal programs in lower-body strength—a pilot study
Authors: Rosado H , Bravo J , Raimundo A , Carvalho J , Leite N , Pereira C
Published: August 2021

Background

Muscle weakness is a key risk factor for falls and strength exercises should be included in fall prevention programs. A psychomotor intervention promoting motor stimulation and the whole-body vibration (WBV) providing muscle contractions may reduce the incidence of falls. Our hypothesis relies on the greater benefits of a combined program. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and the feasibility of two 12-week multimodal programs in lower-body strength in community dwellings fallers or with balance impairment.

Methods

Thirty-seven participants (34 women; mean age 74.3 ± 5.2 years) were allocated into: experimental group 1 [EG1] (psychomotor intervention), or experimental group 2 [EG2] (combined program: psychomotor intervention plus WBV), 3x/week. Maximal strength of knee extensors and flexors was assessed by an isokinetic dynamometer at 60°/s. Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests were performed.

Results

The overall adherence rate was high (86.3%), with a level intensity in the rating of perceived exertion of 12.1 ± 0.3 points, in EG1, and 12.5 ± 0.4 points, in EG2. Significant changes between the pre-post intervention were observed exclusively in EG2, in the variables ‘Peak torque extension’ (71.7 ± 28.6 Nm vs. 79.2 ± 23.5 Nm, P = 0.042) and ‘Agonist/Antagonist ratio’ (60.2 ± 13.0 vs. 53.5 ± 8.6, P = 0.013). The effect size (r) in both variables was medium. No significant changes between groups were detected.

Conclusions

This pilot results indicate that both programs were feasible and well-tolerated. The combined program demonstrates larger effectiveness, since the WBV may positively influence the lower-body strength, reducing the risk of falls. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03446352. Funding: This pilot was granted by the ESACA Project (Grant ALT20-03-0145-FEDER-000007) and by FCT (SFRH/BD/147398/2019).
Changes in force production after applying PNF
Authors: Ferreira Vitor Ferreira Vitor
Published: August 2021

Background

The performance of the vertical jump can benefit from techniques that enhance muscle strength. The application of certain PNF techniques can improve muscle activation and consequently the production of strength. The objective of this study was to understand the immediate changes produced by the application of the PNF Slow Reversal technique in the performance of the vertical jump.

Methods

An analytic, quasi-experimental and crossover study was designed. The data were collected in two sessions with at least 48 hours between them. In each session, three countermovement jumps were collected before and after the experimental and control protocol in a randomized order. The experimental protocol consisted of two diagonals of Slow Reversal technique with 15 repetitions of each. The control protocol consisted of 5 minutes of sitting (approximately the same time as the experimental protocol). The data were collected on a force platform and processed using an algorithm in MATLAB R2016b software.

Results

18 female (mean age 20.7 ± 2.7 years, mean body mass of 71.6 ± 11.5 kg, mean height of 1.75 ± 0.07 m) athletes of amateur sports participated in the study. Some values with statistical significance were found. Particularly a decrease in the average force production in the concentric phase after the application of PNF (P = 0.024).

Conclusions

The application of PNF seems to induce acute effects in the production of force, in the performance of the vertical jump. The application of PNF may induce muscle adaptations that need to be better studied in the long term.