bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Pressure Pulsation and Vibration in a Low-Specific-Speed Centrifugal Pump
Authors: Cui Baoling , Zhang Yingbin , Huang Yakun
Published: October 2020

Unsteady pressure pulsation and fluid force induced by flow instabilities in the centrifugal pump is an important cause of vibration, which is detrimental to the safe operation of the pump. In this study, we numerically investigated the pressure pulsation and radial force in a low-specific-speed centrifugal pump by using the detached-eddy simulation method. We also performed a vibration displacement experiment on the shaft of the centrifugal pump. The vortex identification method was introduced to clarify the internal correlation between unsteady flow structures with pressure pulsations. The results showed that the pressure pulsations at the impeller outlet were closely associated with the periodic vortex shedding from the blade pressure surface. The rotor–stator interaction between a relatively big trailing vortex core and volute tongue generated larger pressure pulsation and radial force in the pump at a low flow rate. Under a large flow rate, the trailing vortex core was easily broken and dispersed, and this resulted in smaller pressure pulsation and radial force compared with that at a low flow rate. Under the design flow rate, the pressure pulsation intensity and the radial force in the impeller were smaller than that under the off-design flow rate. Compared with the spectra between the radial force on the impeller and radial displacement on the shaft, they both presented higher amplitude at the shaft frequency. The vibration of the pump shaft was closely related to the radial force on the impeller.
Training Distribution in 1500-m Speed Skating: A Case Study of an Olympic Gold Medalist
Authors: Orie Jac , Hofman Nico , Meerhoff Laurentius A. , Knobbe Arno
Published: October 2020

At the Olympic level, optimally distributing training intensity is crucial for maximizing performance. Purpose: The authors evaluated the effect of training-intensity distribution on anaerobic power as a substitute for 1500-m speed-skating performance in the 4 y leading up to an Olympic gold medal. Methods: During the preparation phase of the speed-skating season, anaerobic power was recorded periodically (n = 15) using the mean power (in watts) with a 30-s Wingate test. For each training session in the 4 wk prior to each Wingate test, the volume (in hours), training type (specific, simulation, nonspecific, and strength training), and the rating of perceived exertion (RPE; CR-10) were recorded. Results: Compared with the 8 lowest, the 7 highest-scoring tests were preceded by a significantly (P < .01) higher volume of strength training. Furthermore, the RPE distribution of the number of nonspecific training sessions was significantly different (P < .01). Significant (P < .05) correlations highlighted that a larger nonspecific training volume in the lower intensities RPE 2 (r = .735) and 3 (r = .592) was associated positively and the medium intensities RPE 4 (r = −.750) and 5 (r = −.579) negatively with Wingate performance. Conclusion: For the subject, the best results were attained with a high volume of strength training and the bulk of nonspecific training at RPE 2 and 3, and specifically not at the adjoining RPE 4 and 5. These findings are surprising given the aerobic nature of training at RPE 2 and 3 and the importance of anaerobic capacity in this middle-distance event.
Career Performance Trajectories of Professional Australian Football Players
Authors: Sullivan Courtney , Kempton Thomas , Ward Patrick , Coutts Aaron J.
Published: October 2020

Purpose: To develop position-specific career performance trajectories and determine the age of peak performance of professional Australian Football players. Methods: Match performance data (Australian Football League [AFL] Player Rank) were collected for Australian Football players drafted via the AFL National Draft between 1999 and 2015 (N = 207). Players were subdivided into playing positions: forwards (n = 60; age 23 [3] y), defenders (n = 71; age 24 [4] y), midfielders (n = 58; age 24 [4] y), and ruckmen (n = 18; age 24 [3] y). Linear mixed models were fitted to the data to estimate individual career trajectories. Results: Forwards, midfielders, and defenders experienced peak match performance earlier than ruckmen (24–25 vs 27 y). Midfielders demonstrated the greatest between-subjects variability (intercept 0.580, age 0.0286) in comparison with ruckmen, who demonstrated the least variability (intercept 0.112, age 0.005) in AFL Player Rank throughout their careers. Age had the greatest influence on the career trajectory of midfielders (β [SE] = 0.226 [0.025], T = 9.10, P < .01) and the least effect on ruckmen (β [SE] = 0.114 [0.049], T = 2.30, P = .02). Conclusions: Professional Australian Football players peak in match performance between 24 and 27 years of age with age, having the greatest influence on the match performance of midfielders and the least on ruckmen.
Monitoring Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Professional Soccer Players: Is It Worth the Prick?
Authors: Buchheit Martin , Simpson Ben M. , Lacome Mathieu
Published: October 2020

Purpose: To compare between-tests changes in submaximal exercise heart rate (HRex, 3 min, 12 km/h) and the speed associated with 4 mmol/L of blood lactate (V4mmol) in soccer players to get insight into their level of agreement and respective sensitivity to changes in players’ fitness. Methods: A total of 19 elite professional players (23 [3] y) performed 2 to 3 graded incremental treadmill tests (3-min stages interspersed with 1 min of passive recovery, starting speed 8 km/h, increment 2 km/h until exhaustion or 18 km/h if exhaustion was not reached before) over 1.5 seasons. The correlation between the changes in HRex and V4mmol was examined. Individual changes in the 2 variables were compared (>2 × typical error considered “clear”). Results: The changes in HRex and V4mmol were largely correlated (r = .82; 90% confidence interval, .65–.91). In more than 90% of the cases, when a clear individual change in HRex was observed, it was associated with a similar clear change in V4mmol (the same direction, improvement, or impairment of fitness) and conversely. Conclusions: When it comes to testing players submaximally, the present results suggest that practitioners can use HRex or V4mmol interchangeably with confidence. However, in comparison with a field-based standardized warm-up run (3–4 min, all players together), the value of a multistage incremental test with repeated blood lactate samplings is questionable for a monitoring purpose given its time, labor, cost, and poorer player buy-in.
Managing Load to Optimize Well-Being and Recovery During Short-Term Match Congestion in Elite Basketball
Authors: Doeven Steven H. , Brink Michel S. , Huijgen Barbara C.H. , de Jong Johan , Lemmink Koen A.P.M.
Published: October 2020

In elite basketball, players are exposed to intensified competition periods when participating in both national and international competitions. How coaches manage training between matches and in reference to match scheduling for a full season is not yet known. Purpose: First, to compare load during short-term match congestion (ie, ≥2-match weeks) with regular competition (ie, 1-match weeks) in elite male professional basketball players. Second, to determine changes in well-being, recovery, neuromuscular performance, and injuries and illnesses between short-term match congestion and regular competition. Methods: Sixteen basketball players (age 24.8 [2.0] y, height 195.8 [7.5] cm, weight 94.8 [14.0] kg, body fat 11.9% [5.0%], VO2max 51.9 [5.3] mL·kg−1·min−1) were monitored during a full season. Session rating of perceived exertion (s-RPE) was obtained, and load was calculated (s-RPE × duration) for each training session or match. Perceived well-being (fatigue, sleep quality, general muscle soreness, stress levels, and mood) and total quality of recovery were assessed each training day. Countermovement jump height was measured, and a list of injuries and illnesses was collected weekly using the adapted Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Questionnaire on Health Problems. Results: Total load (training sessions and matches; P < .001) and training load (P < .001) were significantly lower for ≥2-match weeks. Significantly higher well-being (P = .01) and less fatigue (P = .001) were found during ≥2-match weeks compared with 1-match weeks. Conclusion: Total load and training load were lower during short-term match congestion compared with regular competition. Furthermore, better well-being and less fatigue were demonstrated within short-term match congestion. This might indicate that coaches tend to overcompensate training load in intensified competition.
Body Composition Over the Menstrual and Oral Contraceptive Cycle in Trained Females
Authors: Rael Beatriz , Romero-Parra Nuria , Alfaro-Magallanes Víctor M. , Barba-Moreno Laura , Cupeiro Rocío , Janse de Jonge Xanne , Peinado Ana B. , _ _
Published: October 2020

Purpose:The influence of female sex hormones on body fluid regulation and metabolism homeostasis has been widely studied. However, it remains unclear whether hormone fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle (MC) and with oral contraceptive (OC) use affect body composition (BC). Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate BC over the MC and OC cycle in well-trained females.Methods:A total of 52 eumenorrheic and 33 monophasic OC-taking well-trained females participated in this study. Several BC variables were measured through bioelectrical impedance analysis 3 times in the eumenorrheic group (early follicular phase, late follicular phase, and midluteal phase) and on 2 occasions in the OC group (withdrawal phase and active pill phase).Results:Mixed linear model tests reported no significant differences in the BC variables (body weight, body mass index, basal metabolism, fat mass, fat-free mass, and total body water) between the MC phases or between the OC phases (P > .05 for all comparisons). Trivial and small effect sizes were found for all BC variables when comparing the MC phases in eumenorrheic females, as well as for the OC cycle phases.Conclusions:According to the results, sex hormone fluctuations throughout the menstrual and OC cycle do not influence BC variables measured by bioelectrical impedance in well-trained females. Therefore, it seems that bioimpedance analysis can be conducted at any moment of the cycle, both for eumenorrheic women and women using OC.
Streamlined and Abundant Bacterioplankton Thrive in Functional Cohorts
Authors: Mondav Rhiannon , Bertilsson Stefan , Buck Moritz , Langenheder Silke , Lindström Eva S. , Garcia Sarahi L.
Published: October 2020

This study examines evolutionary and ecological relationships of three of the most ubiquitous and abundant freshwater bacterial genera: “
Ca
. Planktophila” (acI-A), “
Ca.
Nanopelagicus” (acI-B), and “
Ca.
Fonsibacter” (LD12). Due to high abundance, these genera might have a significant influence on nutrient cycling in freshwaters worldwide, and this study adds a layer of understanding to how seemingly competing clades of bacteria can coexist by having different cooperation strategies. Our synthesis ties together network and ecological theory with empirical evidence and lays out a framework for how the functioning of populations within complex microbial communities can be studied.
Association between atopic keratoconjunctivitis and the risk of corneal ulcer
Authors: Jan Ren-Long , Weng Shih-Feng , Wang Jhi-Joung , Tseng Sung-Huei , Chang Yuh-Shin
Published: October 2020

Aims

To investigate the risk of corneal ulcer in patients with atopic keratoconjunctivitis (AKC).

Methods

The nationwide, population-based, retrospective, matched cohort study included 171 019 newly diagnosed patients with AKC who were identified by the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM), code 372.05, and selected from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. The age-, sex- and potential comorbidities-matched control group included 171 019 patients with non-AKC selected from the Taiwan Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2000. Patient information was collected between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2011, and both groups of patients were tracked from the index date until December 2013. The incidence and risk of corneal ulcer (ICD-9-CM code 370.0 except for 370.07) was compared between the groups. A Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was performed to obtain the adjusted HR for corneal ulcer. The cumulative corneal ulcer incidence rate was calculated with the Kaplan-Meier analysis.

Results

In total, 2018 patients with AKC and 1481 controls developed a corneal ulcer during the follow-up period. The incidence rate of corneal ulcer was 1.42 times (95% CI1.33 to 1.52; p<0.0001) higher in patients with AKC than in controls. After adjusting for potential confounders, including diabetes mellitus, chronic renal disease, topical steroid ophthalmic agent use, lid margin disease, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, ocular blunt trauma and post-corneal transplantation, patients with AKC were 1.26 times more likely to develop a corneal ulcer than controls (adjusted HR, 1.26; 95% CI 1.14 to 1.39; p<0.05).

Conclusions

Patients with AKC had an increased risk of developing a corneal ulcer and should be advised of this risk.
Prevalence, risk factors and management of ocular hypertension or glaucoma in patients with Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease
Authors: Yang Peizeng , Wang Chaokui , Su Guannan , Pan Su , Qin Yang , Zhang Jun , Cao Qingfeng , Zhong Zhenyu , Zhou Chunjiang , Wang Yao , Kijlstra Aize
Published: October 2020

Background/aims

This study was performed to examine the prevalence, risk factors and treatment outcome of OHT/glaucoma in Chinese patients with Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH).

Methods

Retrospective non-interventional case series were conducted on a total of 2281 patients with VKH referred from April 2008 to April 2019. Of these cases, 1457 had a minimum follow-up period of 3 months and were included for this study. Medical records were reviewed for demographic, ocular and treatment data.

Results

Among 2914 eyes of 1457 patients with VKH, 695 (23.9%) eyes of 425 patients (29.2%) developed OHT/glaucoma. The risk factors of OHT/glaucoma included initial BCVA of 20/200 or worse (OR=4.826), final best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/50–20/100 (OR=5.341) and final BCVA of 20/200 or worse (OR=4.235), the interval between uveitis attack and referral time interval being 2 months or more (OR=3.318), more than three recurrent episodes (OR=4.177) and posterior synechiae (OR=1.785). The main possible mechanisms of OHT/glaucoma were inflammatory factor-induced open-angle OHT/glaucoma in 277 eyes (39.9%) and pupillary block arising from complete posterior synechiae in 201 eyes (28.9%). In these 695 eyes with OHT/glaucoma, normalised intraocular pressure (IOP) was achieved in 389 eyes (56.0%) following medical treatment. In the remaining 306 eyes, various surgical interventions were performed and a normalised IOP could be achieved in 249 eyes (81.4%).

Conclusion

OHT/glaucoma is a common complication in Chinese patients with VKH. Risk factors of OHT/glaucoma included worse acuity at first and final visits, the longer interval between uveitis attack and referral, more recurrent episodes and posterior synechiae.
Compression sutures combined with intracameral air injection versus thermokeratoplasty for acute corneal hydrops: a prospective-randomised trial
Authors: Zhao Zelin , Wu Siteng , Ren Weina , Zheng Qinxiang , Ye Cong , Kim Andy D. , Jhanji Vishal , Wang Michael T. M. , Chen Wei
Published: October 2020

Aims

To compare the efficacy of compression sutures combined with intracameral air injection (CSAI) and thermokeratoplasty (TKP) for the management of acute corneal hydrops in keratoconus.

Methods

In this multi-centre randomised clinical trial, 20 patients with keratoconus (20 eyes) with acute corneal hydrops were enrolled and randomised to receive either CSAI or TKP and followed-up for a period of 6 months.

Results

There were no significant differences in patient demographics, severity of corneal hydrops and preoperative duration of symptoms between the two groups. In both groups, corneal oedema resolved within 2 weeks. The maximum thickness of the corneal scars following CSAI and TKP was not significantly different. Best spectacle-corrected visual acuity was superior in the CSAI group at 6-month follow-up (CSAI vs TKP, 0.52 (0.37, 0.85) vs 0.96 (0.70, 1.34) LogMAR, p=0.042). CSAI resulted in greater corneal endothelial cell density (CSAI vs TKP, 2677.8±326.7 vs 1955.3±298.1 cells/mm2, p<0.001) and flatter corneal curvature (CSAI vs TKP: mean keratometry value, 52.13±4.92 vs 63.51±5.83D, p<0.001; maximum keratometry value, 65.21±7.42 vs 77.13±12.01D, p=0.016) at the 6-month follow-up.

Conclusion

Although both CSAI and TKP resulted in resolution of acute corneal hydrops in keratoconus, CSAI was associated with superior clinical outcomes in this study.

Chinese Clinical trial registration number

ChiCTR-IOR-17013764
Two-year outcomes of the MINIject drainage system for uncontrolled glaucoma from the STAR-I first-in-human trial
Authors: Denis Philippe , Hirneiß Christoph , Durr Georges M , Reddy Kasu Prasad , Kamarthy Anita , Calvo Ernesto , Hussain Zubair , Ahmed Iqbal K
Published: October 2020

Background/Aims

The current study evaluates the efficacy and safety of the stand-alone implantation of the MINIject (iSTAR Medical, Wavre, Belgium) supraciliary, microinvasive glaucoma drainage device in patients with medically uncontrolled open-angle glaucoma.

Methods

This prospective, multicentre, first-in-human, single-arm interventional study evaluated stand-alone, ab interno implantation in 25 patients of a 5 mm long uveoscleral device made of STAR biocompatible material, which is a soft, microporous, flexible silicone. The primary outcome was the reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) at 6 months compared with baseline, and follow-up continued until 2 years for 21 patients. Secondary outcomes included success defined as diurnal IOP of ≤21 mmHg and >5 mmHg with an IOP reduction of 20% without (complete) or with/without (qualified) glaucoma medication.

Results

Mean baseline IOP was 23.2±2.9 mmHg on 2.0±1.1 glaucoma medication ingredients and decreased to 13.8±3.5 mmHg (−40.7% reduction) on 1.0±1.3 medications 2 years after implantation. Complete success was achieved in 47.6% of patients (10/21) and qualified success in 100% of patients (21/21) at the 2-year follow-up. All patients achieved a 20% IOP reduction with 48% of patients medication-free. No serious ocular adverse events or additional glaucoma surgery were reported. Mean central endothelial cell density (ECD) mildly decreased from 2411 cells/mm2 (n=26) to 2341 cells/mm2 (n=21) at 24 months, which represents a 5% decrease for matched eyes. No patient had a ≥30% decrease in central ECD.

Conclusion

This first-in-human study on the stand-alone implantation of the MINIject supraciliary drainage system shows promising IOP-lowering results and medication reduction over 24 months with few adverse events.

Trial registration number

NCT03193736.
Efficacy and safety of oral valganciclovir in cytomegalovirus anterior uveitis with uncontrolled intraocular pressure
Authors: Wong Mandy O M , Yu Amy H Y , Chan Carmen K M
Published: October 2020

Background/aims

While cytomegalovirus (CMV) anterior uveitis (AU) patients often require glaucoma surgery, the effectiveness of systemic anti-viral in long-term intraocular pressure (IOP) control is not well established. Our study aims to identify the 2-year efficacy and safety of oral valganciclovir in CMV AU with uncontrolled IOP.

Methods

In this retrospective case series, one eye from each of 17 immunocompetent PCR-proven patients with CMV AU who received a single course of oral valganciclovir for 20–148 days for medically uncontrolled IOP during 2008–2018 were identified. They were examined at baseline, week 2, months 1, 2 and 3, then every 3 months up to 2 years after commencement of valganciclovir, or until IOP-lowering procedure.

Results

Median baseline IOP and IOP-lowering medication were 27.0 mm Hg (IQR: 22.9–31.0 mm Hg), and 4.0, respectively. IOP was significantly lower than baseline from 2 weeks to 12 months and at 21 and 24 months after starting valganciclovir (p=0.001 to 0.041, Wilcoxon sign-rank test), with 16.9–46.0% median IOP reduction. Seven (41.2%) and six (35.3%) patients had IOP≤21 mm Hg with same, or reduced, topical medications by 12 and 24 months, respectively. Median time to IOP-lowering intervention or second course of valganciclovir was 12.4 months. There was no serious medication-related adverse event. Common side effects included reduced monocyte count (9 patients) and deranged renal function/electrolytes (5 patients). IOP spike and wound leak occurred in 35.5% and 29.4% of patients, respectively, after diagnostic aqueous tap.

Conclusion

In CMV AU with uncontrolled IOP, >1/3 of the patients avoided glaucoma surgery over 2 years with a course of oral valganciclovir.
Ten-year survival trends of neovascular age-related macular degeneration at first presentation
Authors: Arpa Cristina , Khalid Hagar , Chandra Shruti , Wagner Siegfried , Fasler Katrin , Faes Livia , Pooprasert Pakinee , Chopra Reena , Moraes Gabriella , Balaskas Konstantinos , Keane Pearse A , Sivaprasad Sobha , Fu Dun Jack
Published: October 2020

Background

To describe 10-year trends in visual outcomes, anatomical outcomes and treatment burden of patients receiving antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD).

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of treatment-naïve, first-affected eyes with nAMD started on ranibizumab before January 1, 2009. The primary outcome was time to best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) falling ≤35 ETDRS letters after initiating anti-VEGF therapy. Secondary outcomes included time to BCVA reaching ≥70 letters, proportion of eyes with BCVA ≥70 and ≤35 letters in 10 years, mean trend of BCVA and central retinal thickness over 10 years, and mean number of injections.

Results

For our cohort of 103 patients, Kaplan-Meier analyses demonstrated median time to BCVA reaching ≤35 and ≥70 letters were 37.8 (95% CI 22.2 to 65.1) and 8.3 (95% CI 4.8 to 20.9) months after commencing anti-VEGF therapy, respectively. At the final follow-up, BCVA was ≤35 letters and ≥70 letters in 41.1% and 21%, respectively, in first-affected eyes, while this was the case for 5.4% and 48.2%, respectively, in a patient’s better-seeing eye. Mean injection number was 37.0±24.2 per eye and 53.6±30.1 at patient level (63.1% of patients required injections in both eyes).

Conclusions

The chronicity of nAMD disease and its management highlights the importance of long-term visual prognosis. Our analyses suggest that one in five patients will retain good vision (BCVA ≥70 ETDRS letters) in the first-affected eye at 10 years after starting anti-VEGF treatment; yet, one in two patients will have good vision in their better-seeing eye. Moreover, our data suggest that early treatment of nAMD is associated with better visual outcomes.
Ten-year outcomes of microkeratome-assisted lamellar keratoplasty for keratoconus
Authors: Yu Angeli Christy , Franco Elena , Caruso Lorenzo , Myerscough James , Spena Rossella , Fusco Fiorella , Socea Sergiu , Bovone Cristina , Busin Massimo
Published: October 2020

Background/Aims

To report the 10-year outcomes of modified microkeratome-assisted lamellar keratoplasty (LK) for keratoconus.

Methods

In this single-centre interventional case series, 151 consecutive eyes with keratoconus underwent modified microkeratome-assisted LK. Eyes with scars extending beyond the posterior half of the corneal stroma and preoperative thinnest-point pachymetry value of less than 300 μm were excluded. Outcome measures were best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), refractive astigmatism (RA), endothelial cell density, immunological rejection, ectasia recurrence and graft failure rates.

Results

Baseline BSCVA (0.89±0.31 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR)) significantly improved to 0.10±0.12 logMAR at year 3 (p<0.001), and remained stable up to 10 years. At 10 years, 94% of eyes saw ≥20/40, 61% saw ≥20/25 and 24% saw ≥20/20 Snellen BSCVA. At final follow-up, RA exceeding 4.5 dioptres was observed in 5 cases (4%). Endothelial cell loss was 25±17% at 1 year with an annual decline of 2% over 10 years. The 10-year cumulative risk for immunological rejection and graft failure was 8.5%, and 2.4%, respectively. No case developed recurrent ectasia at 10 years.

Conclusion

Modified microkeratome-assisted LK results in stable visual and refractive outcomes with low rates of immunological rejection and graft failure in the absence of recurrence of ectasia for at least 10 years.
Do vigorous-intensity and moderate-intensity physical activities reduce mortality to the same extent? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Rey Lopez Juan Pablo , Sabag Angelo , Martinez Juan Maria , Rezende Leandro F M , Pastor-Valero Maria
Published: October 2020

Objective

To examine whether vigorous-intensity physical activity confers additional reductions on all-cause and cause-specific mortality compared with moderate-intensity physical activity.

Design

A systematic review (registered in PROSPERO CRD42019138995) and meta-analysis.

Data sources

Three electronic databases up to April 14 2020.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion criteria were prospective studies that contained information about (1) moderate-intensity (3–5.9 metabolic equivalent tasks (METs)) and vigorous-intensity (≥6 METs) physical activities and (2) all-cause and/or cause-specific mortality. Exclusion criteria were prospective studies that (1) exclusively recruited diseased patients (eg, hypertensive patients and diabetics) or (2) did not account for total physical activity in their multivariable models (3) or did not adjust or exclude individuals with comorbidities at baseline or (4) used physically inactive participants as reference group.

Results

Five studies (seven cohorts using sex-specific results) were pooled into a meta-analysis. For all-cause mortality and controlling by total physical activity, vigorous-intensity physical activity (vs moderate) was not associated with a larger reduction in mortality (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.09). After the exclusion of one study judged with critical risk of bias (Risk Of Bias in Non randomized Studies, ROBINS tool) from meta-analysis, results remained similar (HR 0.98, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.12). Due to the limited number of studies, meta-analyses for cancer and cardiovascular mortality were not performed.

Conclusions

Prospective studies suggest that, for the same total physical activity, both vigorous-intensity and moderate-intensity physical activities reduce all-cause mortality to the same extent. However, absence of evidence must not be interpreted as evidence of absence due to the existing methodological flaws in the literature.
Video games and their associations with physical health: a scoping review
Authors: Huard Pelletier Vincent , Lessard Arianne , Piché Florence , Tétreau Charles , Descarreaux Martin
Published: October 2020

Objective

The objective of this scoping review is to investigate the possible links between the practice of video games and physical health. It seeks to answer the following question: What are the physical health consequences of playing video games in healthy video game player? and How is it currently investigated?.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted to identify observational and experimental studies pertaining to our research question. Retrieved papers were screened using a two-phase method first involving a selection based on titles and abstracts. Then, potentially relevant studies were read and triaged. The final set of included studies was analysed, and data were subsequently extracted. Observational studies and experimental studies were assessed using the appropriate Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and data were synthetised according to specific physical health and related health behaviours.

Results

Twelve peer-reviewed articles were retained for further analyses. Results of this scoping review suggest preliminary evidence that time spent gaming is associated with some health outcomes indicators. Our results indicate preliminary evidence that increased gaming time is associated with higher body mass index and lower self-reported general health status. There is insufficient evidence to conclude on a possible association between gaming time and physical activity or sedentary behaviours, sleep or fatigue, musculoskeletal pain or dietary behaviours.

Conclusion

The results of this sopping review suggest an association between increased video game playing time and a deterioration in some physical health indicators but available evidence is scarce, precluding from any strong conclusion.
Impact of COVID-19 on vulnerable patients with rheumatic disease: results of a worldwide survey
Authors: Mehta Bella , Jannat-Khah Deanna , Fontana Mark Alan , Moezinia Carine J , Mancuso Carol A , Bass Anne R , Antao Vinicius C , Gibofsky Allan , Goodman Susan M , Ibrahim Said
Published: October 2020

Objective

There is emerging evidence that COVID-19 disproportionately affects people from racial/ethnic minority and low socioeconomic status (SES) groups. Many physicians across the globe are changing practice patterns in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We sought to examine the practice changes among rheumatologists and what they perceive the impact to be on their most vulnerable patients.

Methods

We administered an online survey to a convenience sample of rheumatologists worldwide during the initial height of the pandemic (between 8 April and 4 May 2020) via social media and group emails. We surveyed rheumatologists about their opinions regarding patients from low SES and racial/ethnic minority groups in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Mainly, what their specific concerns were, including the challenges of medication access; and about specific social factors (health literacy, poverty, food insecurity, access to telehealth video) that may be complicating the management of rheumatologic conditions during this time.

Results

548 rheumatologists responded from 64 countries and shared concerns of food insecurity, low health literacy, poverty and factors that preclude social distancing such as working and dense housing conditions among their patients. Although 82% of rheumatologists had switched to telehealth video, 17% of respondents estimated that about a quarter of their patients did not have access to telehealth video, especially those from below the poverty line. The majority of respondents believed these vulnerable patients, from racial/ethnic minorities and from low SES groups, would do worse, in terms of morbidity and mortality, during the pandemic.

Conclusion

In this sample of rheumatologists from 64 countries, there is a clear shift in practice to telehealth video consultations and widespread concern for socially and economically vulnerable patients with rheumatic disease.
Differential interferometry using a Bose-Einstein condensate
Authors: Gersemann Matthias , Gebbe Martina , Abend Sven , Schubert Christian , Rasel Ernst M.
Published: October 2020

Out of a single Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC), we create two simultaneous interferometers, as employed for the differentiation between rotations and accelerations. Our method exploits the precise motion control of BECs combined with the precise momentum transfer by double Bragg diffraction for interferometry. In this way, the scheme avoids the complexity of two BEC sources and can be readily extended to a six-axis quantum inertial measurement unit.

Graphical abstract
Reversible elastic phase field approach and application to cell monolayers
Authors: Chojowski Robert , Schwarz Ulrich S. , Ziebert Falko
Published: October 2020

Motion and generation of forces by single cells and cell collectives are essential elements of many biological processes, including development, wound healing and cancer cell migration. Quantitative wound healing assays have demonstrated that cell monolayers can be both dynamic and elastic at the same time. However, it is very challenging to model this combination with conventional approaches. Here we introduce an elastic phase field approach that allows us to predict the dynamics of elastic sheets under the action of active stresses and localized forces, e.g. from leader cells. Our method ensures elastic reversibility after release of forces. We demonstrate its potential by studying several paradigmatic situations and geometries relevant for single cells and cell monolayers, including elastic bars, contractile discs and expanding monolayers with leader cells.

Graphical abstract
Rudolf Ladenburg and the first quantum interpretation of optical dispersion
Authors: Taltavull Marta Jordi
Published: October 2020

In 1921, the experimental physicist Rudolf Ladenburg put forward the first quantum interpretation of optical dispersion. Theoretical physicists had tried to explain dispersion from the point of view of quantum theory ever since 1913, when Niels Bohr proposed his quantum model of atom. Yet, their theories proved unsuccessful. It was Ladenburg who gave a breakthrough step toward our quantum understanding of dispersion. In order to understand Ladenburg’s step, I analyze Ladenburg’s experimental work on dispersion prior to 1913, the reasons why the first theories of dispersion after 1913 were not satisfactory, and Ladenburg’s 1921 proposal. I argue that Ladenburg’s early experimental work on dispersion is indispensable to understand his 1921 paper. The specific kind of experiments he performed before 1913, the related interpretative problems, and the way he tried to solve them, led him reapproach the dispersion problem in 1921 in a way that was completely different from the way theoretical physicists had done it before.
Theory of supercurrent in superconductors
Authors: Koizumi Hiroyasu , Ishikawa Alto
Published: October 2020

According to the standard theory of superconductivity, the origin of superconductivity is electron pairing. The induced current by a magnetic field is calculated by the linear response to the vector potential, and the supercurrent is identified as the dissipationless flow of the paired electrons, while single electrons flow with dissipation. This supercurrent description suffers from the following serious problems: (1) it contradicts the reversible superconducting-normal phase transition in a magnetic field observed in type I superconductors; (2) the gauge invariance of the supercurrent induced by a magnetic field requires the breakdown of the global [Formula: see text] gauge invariance, or the nonconservation of the particle number; and (3) the explanation of the ac Josephson effect is based on the boundary condition that is different from the real experimental one.

We will show that above problems are resolved if the supercurrent is attributed to the collective mode arising from the Berry connection for many-body wavefunctions. Problem (1) is resolved by attributing the appearance and disappearance of the supercurrent to the abrupt appearance and disappearance of topologically protected loop currents produced by the Berry connection; problem (2) is resolved by assigning the non-conserved number to that for the particle number participating in the collective mode produced by the Berry connection; and problem (3) is resolved by identifying the relevant phase in the Josephson effect is that arising from the Berry connection, and using the modified Bogoliubov transformation that conserves the particle number.

We argue that the required Berry connection arises from spin-twisting itinerant motion of electrons. For this motion to happen, the Rashba spin–orbit interaction has to be added to the Hamiltonian for superconducting systems. The collective mode from the Berry connections is stabilized by the pairing interaction that changes the number of particles participating in it; thus, the superconducting transition temperatures for some superconductors is given by the pairing energy gap formation temperature as explained in the BCS theory. The topologically protected loop currents in this case are generated as cyclotron motion of electrons that is quantized by the Berry connection even without an external magnetic field.

We also explain a way to obtain the Berry connection from spin-twisting itinerant motion of electrons for a two-dimensional model where the on-site Coulomb repulsion is large and doped holes form small polarons. In this model, the electron pairing is not required for the stabilization of the collective mode, and the supercurrent is given as topologically protected spin-vortex-induced loop currents (SVILCs).
Investigation of alloying process of Cu and Au nanoparticles based on molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Zuo Haochen , Cao Shouqi , Yin Qingzhao , Huang Junjun
Published: October 2020

Nanotechnology plays an important role in the development of modern science and technology. In this paper, the alloying process of Cu and Au nanoparticles with different diameters (Cu(100 Å) and Au(70 Å), Au(100 Å) and Cu(70 Å), Au(100 Å) and Cu(50 Å) Cu(100 Å) and Au(50 Å)) was investigated by molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. Cu and Au nanoparticles contact each other at 300 K. The melting temperature of the Cu and Au system is about 1160 K in which the nanoparticles of the studied systems fuse rapidly. At the same time, the lattice structure of nanoparticles is also changed from face-centered cubic (FCC) to amorphous. Furthermore, shrinkage ratio and gyration radius as well as potential energy changed dramatically when the temperature reached 1160 K. The potential energy shows that more energy is needed for Cu(100 Å)/Au(70 Å) system to reach the melting temperature. Besides, the change of relative gyration radius is related to the radius of nanoparticles.
Impact of New Family Forms on Parenting and Child Development
Authors: Imrie Susan , Golombok Susan
Published: October 2020

The structure of families has changed significantly over the last 40 years due to changes in legislation, technology, and societal attitudes. This article examines parenting and child development in new family forms, i.e., family forms that did not exist or were not visible until the latter part of the twentieth century. First, we give an overview of the historical and current context of new family forms. Then, we discuss parenting and child development in six new family types: families with lesbian mothers, families with gay fathers, intentional single-mother families, donor conception families, surrogacy families, and families with trans parents. Next, we discuss how research on the impact of new family forms on parenting and child development can inform our understanding of the relative influence of family processes and family structure on child development and parenting. We conclude with directions for future research.
Overnutrition and Associated Factors: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study between Government and Private Primary School Students in Gondar Town, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Ali Mohammed Sied , Kassahun Chanyalew Worku , Wubneh Chalachew Adugna
Published: October 2020

Introduction. Childhood overnutrition is a public health problem in low- and middle-income countries because its effect is likely to progress into adulthood that results in developing noncommunicable diseases at a younger age. There is no such previous comparative study that investigated this issue. Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess the prevalence and associated factors of overnutrition among government and private primary school students in Gondar town, northwest Ethiopia. Methods. Institution-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from March 5 to April 9, 2019. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 736 participants. Data were collected through face-to-face interview. Data was entered into EPI-info version 7.2.1.0 and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regressions were carried out to identify associated factors with overnutrition. Statistical significance was declared using p value< 0.05. Results. The overall prevalence of overnutrition was 9.1%. The prevalence was higher among private schools (51 (14%)) than government (16 (4.3%)). Eating habit while watching television (AOR = 4.08, 95%CI: 1.10–15.16) and not having close friend (AOR = 3.72, 95%: CI: 1.21–2 11.48) were significantly associated with overnutrition in the government schools, while no father education (AOR = 2.59, 95%:CI:1.05–6.39), sweet food preference (AOR = 2.86, 95%:1.19–6.87), fat consumption more than three days per week (AOR = 3.79, 95%CI:1.61–8.91), eating habit while reading (AOR = 4.95, 95%CI:2.29–10.70), and vigorous-intensity sports (AOR = 2.23, 95%:1.02–4.86) were associated with overnutrition in private schools. Conclusion. Prevalence of overnutrition was higher among private than government schools. Hence, it requires attention through creating awareness about healthy diet, healthy lifestyle, and physical activity in collaboration with health and education sectors.
Design of Bacteria Bottle Clamping Elements Based on Regression Models
Authors: Gao Wenshuo , Song Weidong , Ding Tianhang , Wang Jiaoling
Published: October 2020

The fixture design of the bacteria bottle plays a vital role in designing a bottled fungus picking robot to save labor cost in the picking process of bottled fungus. This paper proposed a kind of clamping element design method based on regression models. Several sets of clamping elements were designed according to the appearance data of bacteria bottle. A single-factor test was conducted by using these clamping elements, and three levels of every factor were selected to obtain the desired values of clamping elements. Then, a Box–Behnken test was performed by selected levels. The established regression models described a numeric relationship between the variation of vital measurement points and all variation sources under a precise clamping element layout. To solve the problems in obtaining the direct parameters, a response surface method was presented based on the regression models. Finally, a test was used to demonstrate the effect of the optimized clamping elements when clamping a bacteria bottle. Through the related analysis and optimization, it was demonstrated that the holding effect of the clamping elements was the best under these conditions: the inner arc area was 4948 mm2; the downward displacement was 1.48 mm; and the rubber thickness was 3.69 mm. It showed that the proposed method was feasible, and the assembly quality after optimizing had been greatly improved. It can provide a reference for designing the bottle fixture of a picking machine.
Effects of Paving Technology, Pavement Materials, and Structures on the Fatigue Property of Double‐Layer Pavements
Authors: Deng Changqing , Jiang Yingjun , Han Zhanchuang , Lin Hongwei , Fan Jiangtao
Published: October 2020

Double‐layer paving technology, which is a new technology for construction asphalt pavements, has received increasing research attention for several years. However, few studies have focused on the effect of asphalt pavement layer thickness and mixture‐type combinations on the fatigue properties of a double‐layer pavement. Therefore, the fatigue properties of the double‐layer and traditionally paved asphalt pavements were studied in this work. The effects of two paving technologies, three mixture combinations, and two asphalt layer thickness combinations on the fatigue properties of asphalt pavements were studied through bending beam tests, and a fatigue equation of different asphalt pavements was established using the two‐parameter Weibull distribution. Subsequently, the fatigue lives of different pavements were compared and analyzed under the same cyclic load. Results indicate that the flexural strength and fatigue life of the double‐layer pavement increased by at least 10% and 54%, respectively, compared with those of a traditionally paved pavement structure. The goodness of fit of the equation established using the Weibull distribution exceeded 0.90. For the traditional paving technology, compared with the pavement structure combination of 4‐cm AC‐13 surface layer/6‐cm AC‐20 bottom layer, the fatigue life of a 3‐cm AC‐13 surface layer/7‐cm AC‐20 bottom layer can be increased by at least 8%, while the fatigue lives of other pavement structures are reduced significantly. The results also indicate that the fatigue life of the double‐layer pavement structure with the 3‐cm AC‐13 surface layer/7‐cm AC‐20 bottom layer can be increased by at least 114% compared with that of the traditionally paved pavement structure (4‐cm AC‐13 surface layer/6‐cm AC‐20 bottom layer). Additionally, the fatigue lives of other pavement structures can be improved. To effectively improve the fatigue life of an asphalt pavement, a double‐layer pavement structure with the 3‐cm AC‐13 surface layer/7‐cm AC‐20 bottom layer combination is recommended.
Immunohistochemical Findings in Idiopathic Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Nine Cats
Authors: Ricart María Cecilia , Feijóo Silvia , Rossi Giacomo , Cerquetella Matteo , Castillo Víctor , Gómez Nélida Virginia
Published: October 2020

Inflammatory bowel disease is a term referring to a clinical condition characterized by recurrent/persistent gastrointestinal signs, which cannot be diagnosed only through histological findings, being an elimination diagnosis and needing therefore the previous exclusion of all other possible causes of gastrointestinal signs. The aim of the present study was to compare the expression of different cytokines on endoscopic biopsy samples of the small and large intestine of cats suffering from inflammatory bowel disease and healthy controls, by immunohistochemistry evaluation. Nine cats referred for chronic gastrointestinal signs to the Gastroenterology Service, Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, were included. After being administered with antiparasitic drugs and after running complete laboratory exams, abdominal ultrasonography, etc., upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy with biopsy samplings for histopathology and immunohistochemistry was then performed. Controls were represented by archived samples from healthy cats (University of Camerino, Italy, Veterinary Pathology Unit Archive). On biopsy samples, the immunohistochemistry expression of the following antibodies was evaluated: TGF‐β, CD3+, FoxP3+, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐10, IL‐12, and Th‐17+. Statistic analysis was performed with the nonparametric Mann‐Whitney test and with Spearman test, considering significant p < 0.05. TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐12, and CD3+ were significantly differently expressed between cats suffering from inflammatory bowel disease and controls, while no differences were found regarding TGF‐β, IL‐10, and FOXP3. A positive correlation was also found between proinflammatory cytokines and proinflammatory cytokines plus lymphocytes that were at the same time related to IL‐10 and TGF‐β. On the other hand, a negative correlation was found between proinflammatory and regulatory cytokines. Our results suggest an imbalance in the immune response which may play a role in the etiopathogenesis of feline inflammatory bowel disease.