bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of active commuting on cardiovascular risk factors: GISMO—a randomized controlled feasibility study
Authors: Reich Bernhard , Niederseer David , Loidl Martin , Fernandez La Puente de Battre Maria Dolores , Rossi Valentina Alice , Zagel Bernhard , Caselli Stefano , Schmied Christian , Niebauer Josef
Published: April 2020

A sedentary lifestyle is a major modifiable risk factor for many chronic diseases. Lifestyle modification in order to increase exercise capacity is key in the prevention and rehabilitation of chronic diseases. This could be achieved by active commute. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of daily active commuting on physical activity (PA) and exercise capacity. Seventy‐three healthy hospital employees (age: 46 ± 9 years, 38% male), with a predominantly passive way of commuting, were randomly assigned to two parallel groups, a control group (CG, N = 22) or an intervention group (IG, N = 51), which was further split into public transportation/active commuting (IG‐PT, N = 25) and cycling (IG‐C, N = 26). Both intervention groups were asked to reach 150 min/wk of moderate‐ to vigorous‐intensity exercise during their commute for 1 year. CG maintained a passive commuting mode. All participants underwent assessment of anthropometry, risk factor stratification, and exercise capacity by a medical doctor at the Institute of Sports Medicine, Prevention and Rehabilitation. Weekly physical activity, using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and commuting behavior, using an online diary, were used to assess physical activity. At the end of the study, the change in exercise capacity did significantly differ between IG and CG (P = .003, ES = 0.82). Actively covered distances through commuting significantly differed between groups (walking P = .026; cycling P < .001). Therefore, active commuting improves exercise capacity and can be recommended to the working population to increase exercise capacity.
Interventions to change well‐anchored attitudes in the context of intergroup conflict
Authors: Bar‐Tal Daniel , Hameiri Boaz
Published: April 2020

Changing attitudes is one of the most challenging and important endeavors social psychologists have undertaken in order to promote better quality of life for individuals and collectives. However, when addressing pressing issues, such as intergroup conflict, racism, and inequality, changing attitudes is particularly difficult as individuals are often frozen in their attitudes. Based on the important work of conflict‐resolution scholars and practitioners, we report several well‐known and new socio‐psychological interventions that have been developed to unfreeze attitudes, especially in the context of intergroup conflict. These include providing contradictory information, paradoxical thinking, enlightening individual shortcomings, teaching skills, and the informative process model. We conclude by assessing the lessons learned from the research and practice of psychological interventions, focusing on their application in the field, and the value of increased cooperation between researchers and practitioners.
Prognostic significance of immunohistochemical markers and histological classification in malignant canine mammary tumours
Authors: Pastor Nieves , Ezquerra Luis Javier , Santella Massimo , Caballé Nuria C. , Tarazona Raquel , Durán María Esther
Published: April 2020

Canine mammary carcinoma represents a model for the study of human breast cancer, although the prognostic value of various clinical, histological and immunohistochemical parameters has shown contradictory results. A prospective study, through a 4‐year follow‐up, was performed in 77 patients with mammary carcinoma to analyse the association between histological diagnosis, grade of malignancy, peritumoral and vascular invasion. We have also performed immunohistochemistry for the expression of oestrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) that define human biomarkers of disease progression and treatment response. An association between histological diagnosis and clinical stage was observed with a high proportion of complex carcinoma classified as stage I. There was a higher proportion of ER+/PR+/HER2− tumours in stage I. In contrast, triple‐negative tumours (ER−/PR−/HER2−) were found mainly in advanced clinical stages and were associated with vascular and peritumoral invasion. The tumours included in group VII (carcinosarcoma/adenosquamous carcinoma/other special types of carcinoma) had a higher expression of COX‐2. The univariate analysis showed that those patients with complex carcinoma had the lowest incidence of metastases and the highest probability of survival. In contrast, a high proportion of patients with anaplastic/inflammatory carcinoma developed metastases and showed the lowest probability of survival. In addition, the estimated survival time was shorter for those patients with triple‐negative tumours and those with high COX‐2 expression. However, in the multivariate analysis, only the peritumoral invasion maintained its prognostic significance. In conclusion, in our study anaplastic/inflammatory carcinomas had the worst prognosis with a high proportion of triple‐negative tumours in this category.
Detection of Active Mobile Phone in Exam Hall
Authors: Nazari Najla Aiman , Mohd Nordin Ili Najaa Aimi , Muhammad Razif Muhammad Rusydi , Zulkarnain Noraishikin , Khamis Nurulaqilla
Published: April 2020

The use of mobile phone as a cheating tool in the examination hall among students have considerably increased a burden to invigilators to ensure integrity in examination hall. Many active mobile phone detection schemes had been proposed as the solution to this problem. However, the detection system function in a small detection range of 1.5 to 2 meters from the detection circuit and does not distinguish various frequency bands of radio frequency signals. In order to have diverse range of RF mobile phone signals detection for alerting the invigilators of their specified monitoring region, antenna is proposed to be used. This is done by antenna design simulation using Computer Simulation Technology (CST) software. Two types of antenna; single-dipole antenna and multi-band dipole antenna are simulated to know the characteristics of VSWR, gain and total efficiency. From the simulation results, multi-band dipole antenna shows acceptable VSWR value which are approximate to 2 V, gain is equal to 2.85 dB and total efficiency is equal to 2.484 dB for 2.4 GHz signal. The results imply positive event that multi-band antenna can be a preferable tool in elaborating accurate RF signal detection of active mobile phone in examination hall.
Development of a Hybrid Algorithm for User Association and Resource Allocation to Improve Load Balancing and Energy Efficiency in 5G HetNet
Authors: Obi Elvis , Usman Aliyu Danjuma , Muhammad Sani Suleiman , Sunkary Tekanyi Abdoulie Momodou
Published: April 2020

This paper presents the development and integration of a power control algorithm into the User Association Algorithm with Optimal Bandwidth Allocation (UAAOBA) to form a Hybrid Algorithm for User Association and Resource Allocation (HAUARA). The power control algorithm updates the transmit power of the Base Stations (BSs) towards a minimum transmit power that satisfies the minimum data rate requirement (1 Gbps) of the User Equipment UEs. The power update is achieved using the Newton Rhapson’s method and it adapts the transmit powers of the BSs to the number of their connected UEs. The developed HAUARA provides an optimal solution for user associations, bandwidth allocation, and transmit powers to UEs concurrently. This maximizes the network energy efficiency by coordinating the load fairness of the network while guaranteeing the quality of service requirement of the UEs. The network energy efficiency performance of the developed HAUARA is compared with that of the UAAOBA. The results show that the developed algorithm has network energy efficiency improvement of 12.36%, 10.58%, and 13.44% with respect to UAAOBA for increase number of macro BS antennas, pico BSs, and femto BSs, respectively. Also, the network load balancing performance of the developed HAUARA is compared with that of the UAAOBA. The results show that the developed algorithm has network load balancing improvement of 12.62%, 10.04%, and 10.34% with respect to UAAOBA for increase number of macro BS antennas, pico BSs, and femto BSs, respectively. This implies that the developed algorithm outperforms the UAAOBA in terms of network energy efficiency and load balancing.
ANALYSIS OF PARTICLE DISTRIBUTION IN A DOUBLE LAYER BEAM SHAPING ASSEMBLY RESULTED FROM 30 MEV-PROTON REACTIONS WITH BERYLLIUM TARGET USING THE PHITS PROGRAM
Authors: Bilalodin Bilalodin , Suparta Gede Bayu , Hermanto Arief , Palupi Dwi Satya , Sardjono Yohannes , Rasito Rasito
Published: April 2020

An analysis on the distribution of particle flux emanating from reactions of 30 MeV-proton with beryllium target in a double layer beam shaping assembly (BSA) has been carried out using the PHITS program.  It studies important parameters relating to the distribution of proton, neutron, and gamma. It is revealed that reactions of proton and beryllium in double layer BSA produce fast neutrons and other protons, resulting from certain reactions, and recoil protons from the interactions of fast neutrons and hydrogen atoms. Fast neutrons are distributed around beryllium target, moderator, reflector, and collimator. They are moderated by Al and LiF material. Epithermal neutrons spread along the moderator, with a distribution that is tapering down as it approaches the end of the collimator (aperture). During its travel along the moderator, an epithermal neutron decreases in energy to become a thermal neutron. The spectrum of neutron beam produced by the double layer BSA is wide, which indicates that the neutron beam exiting the aperture consists of three kinds of neutrons, dominated by epithermal neutronswith energy range 1 eV – 10 keV.
MICROPROPAGATION OF ORTHOSIPHON ARISTATUS THROUGH INDIRECT AND DIRECT ORGANOGENESIS
Authors: Fronika Sianipar Nesti , Mariska Ika
Published: April 2020

Orthosiphon aristatus is a herbal and ornamental herb from Lamiaceae family that has long been used as a diuretic for alleviating uric acid disease, gallbladder and kidney stone. Conventional propagation of this plant by stem cutting method faces major challenges notably due to the defect in roots formation, while the demand for this plant is high. This research aimed to establish a protocol for optimal micropropagation of O. aristatus through indirect and direct organogenesis method. Calli induction on MS agar medium supplemented with 2,4-D 0.5 mg L-1 and kinetin 0.3 mg L-1 resulted in 4.32 ± 1.49 g fresh weight of calli. Regeneration of shoots was successfully achieved on MS with 2 mg L-1 BAP with 47 shoots from a single clump of calli. MS0 medium was found to be the best in inducing roots formation. Meanwhile, multiplication through direct organogenesis was optimally performed on MS supplemented with 2 mg L-1 BAP with 9.00 ± 4.42 new shoots produced in 8 weeks after cultured. In conclusion, optimal multiplication shoots of O. aristatus has been achieved through callus formation and direct organogenesis.
CARBON DIOXIDE/METHANE SEPARATION PERFORMANCE BY MIXED MATRIX MEMBRANE FROM POLYSULFONE/ HALLOYSITE NANOTUBES
Authors: Ismail Noor Maizura , Yusaini Nur Afaliza , Jafa Jannah , Anisuzzaman S. M. , Ken Chiam Chel , Bolong Nurmin , Razali Akhtar Razul , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi
Published: April 2020

Gas separation by using membrane-based technology is one of the rising technologies used in the industry. It has many advantages such as low in cost and energy consumption. However, this technology is limited because of the "trade-off" exists between permeability and selectivity of the membrane. Thus, in this study, an inorganic filler, halloysite nanotube is modified with 3-aminopropyl(triethoxysilane) and then incorporated into the polysulfone polymer and the performance of the mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) is investigated. MMMs were analyzed by using SEM, FTIR, tensile and gas permeation tests which studied the morphological differences, mechanical strength, and membrane permeability and selectivity towards CO2 and CH4 respectively. The performance of the MMMs was compared with neat membrane and MMMs with unmodified HNTs. SEM results show an increase of 111% on the thickness of the dense skin layer of MMMs with APTES-modified HNTs compared to the neat membrane and the MMMs with unmodified HNTs. Elongation at break for MMMs with 3-APTES-modified HNTs also increased to 24.22%. The gas separation performance of the MMMs with 3-APTES modified HNTs shows an overall increase of 25.37% in the membrane selectivity compared to MMMs with unmodified HNTs while when coating is done, the selectivity of the MMMs with 3-APTES modified HNTs shows an increase from 0.845 to 10.158 for a pressure of 2 bar showing that coating helps in increasing the selectivity of the membrane.
Parameter Identification on Flexible Multibody Models Using the Adjoint Variable Method and Flexible Natural Coordinate Formulation
Authors: Vanpaemel Simon , Naets Frank , Vermaut Martijn , Desmet Wim
Published: April 2020

This work proposes a methodology for in situ parameter identification using system-level measurements of (flexible) multibody systems, opposed to dedicated component-level identification. The sensitivity information employed for the optimization is obtained using the adjoint variable method (AVM). This method has the advantage of obtaining sensitivity information at a computational cost independent of the amount of model parameters. The underlying flexible multibody formulation employed is a novel approach called the flexible natural coordinates formulation (FNCF). This formulation combines the advantageous properties of the floating frame of reference formulation (FFRF) and the generalized component mode synthesis (GCMS) methods and results in a constant mass and stiffness matrix with quadratic constraint equations. This work shows how the specific structure of equations obtained through FNCF drastically reduces the complexity of the AVM as the simulation derivatives can be readily obtained and are of limited order. The proposed approach has been implemented in an in-house object-oriented matlab multibody code. The methodology is illustrated by identifying 13 model parameters of a MacPherson suspension model, in situ and using system-level measurements.
Nonlinear Stability of Rail Vehicles Traveling on Vibration-Attenuating Slab Tracks
Authors: Ling Liang , Jiang Peibin , Wang Kaiyun , Zhai Wanming
Published: April 2020

Various vibration-attenuating slab tracks have been introduced into urban railways to minimize the negative effects of train-induced ground vibration and noise. However, compared with traditional slab tracks, vibration-attenuating slab tracks usually have a lower overall stiffness, which reduces the vehicle lateral stability. This paper presents an investigation of the nonlinear hunting stability of fast metro rail vehicles traveling on vibration-attenuating slab tracks. A three-dimensional vehicle–track coupled model considering different vibration-attenuating slab tracks is developed to investigate the nonlinear hunting behavior of metro vehicles running on different elastic vibration-attenuating tracks. The nonlinear critical speed and wheelset hunting limit cycle of two types of metro vehicles traveling on four typical types of vibration-attenuating tracks are compared in detail. The influences of vehicle–track system parameters, including rail fastener stiffness and vehicle suspension parameters, on the vehicle lateral nonlinear stability are reported. The results show that the flexibility of vibration-attenuating slab tracks leads to a large wheelset limit cycle and lowers the nonlinear critical speed. Increasing track lateral stiffness and designing appropriate vehicle suspension parameters can improve the lateral stability of rail vehicles traveling on vibration-attenuating slab tracks.
Interleukin-13 drives metabolic conditioning of muscle to endurance exercise
Authors: Knudsen Nelson H. , Stanya Kristopher J. , Hyde Alexander L. , Chalom Mayer M. , Alexander Ryan K. , Liou Yae-Huei , Starost Kyle A. , Gangl Matthew R. , Jacobi David , Liu Sihao , Sopariwala Danesh H. , Fonseca-Pereira Diogo , Li Jun , Hu Frank B. , Garrett Wendy S. , Narkar Vihang A. , Ortlund Eric A. , Kim Jonathan H. , Paton Chad M. , Cooper Jamie A. , Lee Chih-Hao
Published: April 2020

IL-13 hits the gym

Interleukin-13 (IL-13) is a cytokine secreted by T cells, innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s), and granulocytes. It acts as a central mediator in allergy and antihelminth defense with various effects. Knudsen
et al.
report a distinct role for IL-13 in exercise and metabolism (see the Perspective by Correia and Ruas). Mice subjected to endurance training showed increases in circulating IL-13, which correlated with ILC2 expansion in the muscles. By contrast, exercise-induced increases in muscle fatty acid utilization and mitochondrial biogenesis were erased when mice lacked IL-13. Activation of signaling pathways downstream of the muscle IL-13 receptor was key to this effect. Intramuscular injection of adenoviral IL-13 could recapitulate exercise-induced metabolic reprogramming. This signaling pathway may have evolved to combat the metabolic stresses of parasite infection.

Science
, this issue p.
eaat3987
; see also p.
470
COVID-19 amidst Ebola's retreat
Authors: Ditekemena John
Published: April 2020

In April, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) was on the verge of good news—announcing an end to its tenth (and the world's second largest) Ebola outbreak. Unfortunately, since 10 April, new Ebola cases have been reported in Beni, the epicenter of the Ebola outbreak. Although the DRC has long struggled with political unrest, armed conflict, poverty, and infectious diseases, it must remain committed to ending the Ebola crisis while also applying the lessons learned in tackling this old viral enemy to combat a new one—severe acute respiratory syndrome–coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the cause of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Light-Mediated Decreases in Cyclic di-GMP Levels Inhibit Structure Formation inPseudomonas aeruginosaBiofilms
Authors: Kahl Lisa Juliane , Price-Whelan Alexa , Dietrich Lars E. P.
Published: April 2020

Light is known to trigger regulatory responses in diverse organisms, including slime molds, animals, plants, and phototrophic bacteria. However, light-dependent processes in nonphototrophic bacteria, and those of pathogens in particular, have received comparatively little research attention. In this study, we examined the impact of light on multicellular development inPseudomonas aeruginosa, a leading cause of biofilm-based bacterial infections. We grewP. aeruginosastrain PA14 in a colony morphology assay and found that growth under prolonged exposure to low-intensity blue light inhibited biofilm matrix production and thereby the formation of vertical biofilm structures (i.e., “wrinkles”). Light-dependent inhibition of biofilm wrinkling was correlated with low levels of cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP), consistent with the role of this signal in stimulating matrix production. A screen of enzymes with the potential to catalyze c-di-GMP synthesis or degradation identified c-di-GMP phosphodiesterases that contribute to light-dependent inhibition of biofilm wrinkling. One of these, RmcA, was previously characterized by our group for its role in mediating the effect of redox-activeP. aeruginosametabolites called phenazines on biofilm wrinkle formation. Our results suggest that an RmcA sensory domain that is predicted to bind a flavin cofactor is involved in light-dependent inhibition of wrinkling. Together, these findings indicate thatP. aeruginosaintegrates information about light exposure and redox state in its regulation of biofilm development.

IMPORTANCELight exposure tunes circadian rhythms, which modulate the immune response and affect susceptibility to infection in plants and animals. Though molecular responses to light are defined for model plant and animal hosts, analogous pathways that function in bacterial pathogens are understudied. We examined the response to light exposure in biofilms (matrix-encased multicellular assemblages) of the nonphotosynthetic bacteriumPseudomonas aeruginosa. We found that light at intensities that are not harmful to human cells inhibited biofilm maturation via effects on cellular signals. Because biofilm formation is a critical factor in many types ofP. aeruginosainfections, including burn wound infections that may be exposed to light, these effects could be relevant for pathogenicity.
Lon Protease Removes Excess Signal Recognition Particle Protein in Escherichia coli
Authors: Sauerbrei Beate , Arends Jan , Schünemann Danja , Narberhaus Franz
Published: April 2020

Correct targeting of membrane proteins is essential for membrane integrity, cell physiology, and viability. Cotranslational targeting depends on the universally conserved signal recognition particle (SRP), which is a ribonucleoprotein complex comprised of the protein component Ffh and the 4.5S RNA in Escherichia coli. About 25 years ago it was reported that Ffh is an unstable protein, but the underlying mechanism has never been explored. Here, we show that Lon is the primary protease responsible for adjusting the cellular Ffh level. When overproduced, Ffh is particularly prone to degradation during transition from exponential to stationary growth and the cellular Ffh amount is lowest in stationary phase. The Ffh protein consists of two domains, the NG domain, responsible for GTP hydrolysis and docking to the membrane receptor FtsY, and the RNA-binding M domain. We find that the NG domain alone is stable, whereas the isolated M domain is degraded. Consistent with the importance of Lon in this process, the M domain confers synthetic lethality to the lon mutant. The Ffh homolog from the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, which forms a protein-protein complex rather than a protein-RNA complex, is stable, suggesting that the RNA-binding ability residing in the M domain of E. coli Ffh is important for proteolysis. Our results support a model in which excess Ffh not bound to 4.5S RNA is subjected to proteolysis until an appropriate Ffh concentration is reached. The differential proteolysis adjusts Ffh levels to the cellular demand and maintains cotranslational protein transport and membrane integrity.

IMPORTANCE Since one-third of all bacterial proteins reside outside the cytoplasm, protein targeting to the appropriate address is an essential process. Cotranslational targeting to the membrane relies on the signal recognition particle (SRP), which is a protein-RNA complex in bacteria. We report that the protein component Ffh is a substrate of the Lon protease. Regulated proteolysis of Ffh provides a simple mechanism to adjust the concentration of the essential protein to the cellular demand. This is important because elevated or depleted SRP levels negatively impact protein targeting and bacterial fitness.
Use of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors and risk of serious renal events: Scandinavian cohort study
Authors: Pasternak Björn , Wintzell Viktor , Melbye Mads , Eliasson Björn , Svensson Ann-Marie , Franzén Stefan , Gudbjörnsdottir Soffia , Hveem Kristian , Jonasson Christian , Svanström Henrik , Ueda Peter
Published: April 2020

Objective

To assess the association between use of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and risk of serious renal events in data from routine clinical practice.

Design

Cohort study using an active comparator, new user design and nationwide register data.

Setting

Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, 2013-18.

Participants

Cohort of 29 887 new users of SGLT2 inhibitors (follow-up time: dapagliflozin 66.1%; empagliflozin 32.6%; canagliflozin 1.3%) and 29 887 new users of an active comparator, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, matched 1:1 on the basis of a propensity score with 57 variables. Mean follow-up time was 1.7 (SD 1.0) years.

Exposures

SGLT2 inhibitors versus dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, defined by filled prescriptions and analysed according to intention to treat.

Main outcome measures

The main outcome was serious renal events, a composite including renal replacement therapy, death from renal causes, and hospital admission for renal events. Secondary outcomes were the individual components of the main outcome.

Results

The mean age of the study population was 61.3 (SD 10.5) years; 11 108 (19%) had cardiovascular disease, and 1974 (3%) had chronic kidney disease. Use of SGLT2 inhibitors, compared with dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, was associated with a reduced risk of serious renal events (2.6 events per 1000 person years versus 6.2 events per 1000 person years; hazard ratio 0.42 (95% confidence interval 0.34 to 0.53); absolute difference −3.6 (–4.4 to −2.8) events per 1000 person years). In secondary outcome analyses, the hazard ratio for use of SGLT2 inhibitors versus dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors was 0.32 (0.22 to 0.47) for renal replacement therapy, 0.41 (0.32 to 0.52) for hospital admission for renal events, and 0.77 (0.26 to 2.23) for death from renal causes. In sensitivity analyses in each of the Swedish and Danish parts of the cohort, the model was further adjusted for glycated haemoglobin and estimated glomerular filtration rate (Sweden and Denmark) and for blood pressure, body mass index, and smoking (Sweden only); in these analyses, the hazard ratio moved from 0.41 (0.26 to 0.66) to 0.50 (0.31 to 0.81) in Sweden and from 0.42 (0.32 to 0.56) to 0.55 (0.41 to 0.74) in Denmark.

Conclusions

In this analysis using nationwide data from three countries, use of SGLT2 inhibitors, compared with dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, was associated with a significantly reduced risk of serious renal events.
Patients’ perspectives on how to improve diabetes care and self-management: qualitative study
Authors: Ndjaboue Ruth , Chipenda Dansokho Selma , Boudreault Bianca , Tremblay Marie-Claude , Dogba Maman Joyce , Price Roberta , Delgado Pascual , McComber Alex M , Drescher Olivia , McGavock Jonathan , Witteman Holly
Published: April 2020

Objective

People living with diabetes need and deserve high-quality, individualised care. However, providing such care remains a challenge in many countries, including Canada. Patients’ expertise, if acknowledged and adequately translated, could help foster patient-centred care. This study aimed to describe Expert Patients’ knowledge, wisdom and advice to others with diabetes and to health professionals to improve diabetes self-management and care.

Design and methods

We recruited a convenience sample of 21 men and women. Participants were people of diverse backgrounds who are Patient Partners in a national research network (hereafter Expert Patients). We interviewed and video-recorded their knowledge, wisdom and advice for health professionals and for others with diabetes. Three researchers independently analysed videos using inductive framework analysis, identifying themes through discussion and consensus. Expert Patients were involved in all aspects of study design, conduct, analysis and knowledge translation.

Results

Acknowledging and accepting the reality of diabetes, receiving support from family and care teams and not letting diabetes control one’s life are essential to live well with diabetes. To improve diabetes care, health professionals should understand and acknowledge the impact of diabetes on patients and their families, and communicate with patients openly, respectfully, with empathy and cultural competency.

Conclusion

Expert Patients pointed to a number of areas of improvement in diabetes care that may be actionable individually by patients or health professionals, and also collectively through intergroup collaboration. Improving the quality of care in diabetes is crucial for improving health outcomes for people with diabetes.
Association between work schedules and motivation for lifestyle change in workers with overweight or obesity: a cross-sectional study in Japan
Authors: Tanikawa Yukihiro , Kimachi Miho , Ishikawa Minoru , Hisada Tomoichiro , Fukuhara Shunichi , Yamamoto Yosuke
Published: April 2020

Objective

To investigate the association between work schedules and motivation for behavioural change of lifestyle, based on the transtheoretical model (TTM) in workers with overweight or obesity.

Design

A cross-sectional observational study.

Setting

A healthcare examination centre in Japan.

Participants

Between April 2014 and March 2016, we recruited 9243 participants who underwent healthcare examination and met the inclusion criteria, namely, age 20–65 years, body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2and full-time workers.

Exposure

Night and shift (night/shift) workers were compared with daytime workers in terms of motivation for behavioural change.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was action and maintenance stages of change (SOC) for lifestyle in TTM. In a subgroup analysis, we investigated interactions between characteristics, including age, sex, BMI, current smoking, alcohol habits, hours of sleep and working hours.

Results

Overall, 1390 participants (15.0%) were night/shift workers; night/shift workers were younger (median age (IQR): 46 (40–54) vs 43 (37–52) years) and the proportion of men was lesser (75.4 vs 60.9%) compared with daytime workers. The numbers of daytime and night/shift workers in the action and maintenance SOC were 2113 (26.9%) and 309 (22.2%), respectively. Compared with daytime workers, night/shift workers were less likely to demonstrate action and maintenance SOC (adjusted OR (AOR): 0.85, 95% CI: 0.74 to 0.98). In a subgroup analysis that included only those with long working hours (≥10 hours/day), results revealed a strong inverse association between night/shift work and action and maintenance SOC (AOR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.48 to 0.86). A significant interaction was observed between long working hours and night/shift work (P for interaction=0.04).

Conclusions

In workers with overweight or obesity, a night/shift work schedule was associated with a lower motivation for behavioural change in lifestyle, and the association was strengthened in those with long working hours.
Effects of changes in smoking status on blood pressure among adult males and females in Indonesia: a 15-year population-based cohort study
Authors: Andriani Helen , Kosasih Reynaldi Ikhsan , Putri Septiara , Kuo Hsien-Wen
Published: April 2020

Objectives

The continuing rise of smoking behaviours will inevitably lead to a further increase in hypertension prevalence. However, limited research has examined the impacts of changes in smoking status on blood pressure (BP). We sought to assess correlations between increases or decreases of males’ and females’ cigarette consumption on systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and pulse pressure (PP), and to investigate the relationship between smoking status changes and changes in BP through a 15-year examination period.

Design

Retrospective, cohort study.

Setting

We used nationally representative secondary data collected in the years 2000, 2007 and 2015 by the Indonesia Family Life Survey.

Participants

We measured the smoking habits, BP indices and other socioeconomic factors documented in the multiple follow-up surveys of a sample of 10 338 respondents.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was the means of SBP, DBP and PP. The secondary outcome was the changes from baseline in SBP and DBP.

Results

Smoking caused different effects on male and female smokers. Female smokers who increased their daily cigarette consumption had significantly higher SBP and PP (p<0.001). During 15 years of follow-up, male and female smokers who decided to quit had the largest change of SBP (adjusted mean=16.64 mm Hg, SE=21.39 and adjusted mean=24.78 mm Hg, SE=23.25, respectively), whereas new male and female smokers exhibited the highest change of DBP (adjusted mean=2.86 mm Hg, SE=11.50 and adjusted mean=7.54 mm Hg, SE=14.39, respectively).

Conclusions

Our study confirmed the adverse effects of smoking on BP, which can be used to inform efforts to tackle the growing cigarette epidemic and its negative effects on hypertension among former and new smokers and develop evidence-based tobacco control policies in Indonesia.
Tube thoracostomy during the COVID-19 pandemic: guidance and recommendations from the AAST Acute Care Surgery and Critical Care Committees
Authors: Pieracci Fredric M , Burlew Clay Cothren , Spain David , Livingston David H , Bulger Eileen M , Davis Kimberly A , Michetti Christopher
Published: April 2020

This document provides guidance for trauma and acute care surgeons surrounding the placement, management and removal of chest tubes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Balloon dilation of a congenital rectal stricture in a 16‐week‐old kitten
Authors: Kelly Darren , Wagner Tobias , Lamb Valerie
Published: April 2020

A 16‐week‐old Persian kitten was referred for investigation of constipation and failure to grow. The owner reported that the kitten had always strained to defecate. Abdominal radiographs confirmed megacolon and CT pneumocolography confirmed the presence of a caudal rectal stricture. During a single procedure and under fluoroscopic guidance, the stricture was effaced by sequentially dilating 10‐mm and 15‐mm balloons. Shortly after discharge, the owner reported complete resolution of clinical signs and oral laxatives were stopped. Repeat radiographs 1 month post dilation showed resolution of the diffuse megacolon and the cat appeared well and had gained weight. This is the first report of a congenital rectal stricture in a kitten and one of the few reports documenting balloon dilation for the treatment of stenotic anorectal lesions (congenital or acquired) in cats.
Sustaining Canadian marine biodiversity: Policy and statutory progress
Authors: Hutchings Jeffrey A. , Baum Julia K. , Fuller Susanna D. , Laughren Josh , VanderZwaag David L.
Published: April 2020

A 2012 Expert Panel Report on marine biodiversity by the Royal Society of Canada (RSC) concluded that Canada faced significant challenges in achieving sustainable fisheries, regulating aquaculture, and accounting for climate change. Relative to many countries, progress by Canada in fulfilling international obligations to sustain biodiversity was deemed poor. To track progress by Canada since 2012, the RSC struck a committee to track policy and statutory developments on matters pertaining to marine biodiversity and to identify policy challenges, and leading options for implementation that lie ahead. The report by the Policy Briefing Committee is presented here. It concluded that Canada has made moderate to good progress in some areas, such as prioritization of oceans stewardship and strengthening of the evidentiary use of science in decision-making. Key statutes were strengthened through amendments, including requirements to rebuild depleted fisheries ( Fisheries Act) and new means of creating marine protected areas ( Oceans Act) that allowed Canada to exceed its international obligation to protect 10% of coastal and marine areas by 2020. Public release of mandate letters has strengthened ministerial accountability. However, little or no progress has been made in reducing regulatory conflict with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), decreasing ministerial discretion under the Fisheries Act, clarifying the role of science in sustainable fisheries policy, and accounting for climate change. Five future policy challenges are identified: (1) Ensure climate change impacts and projections are incorporated into ocean-related decision making and planning processes; (2) Resolve DFO’s regulatory conflict to conserve and exploit biodiversity; (3) Limit ministerial discretionary power in fisheries management decisions; (4) Clarify ambiguities in how the Precautionary Approach is applied in sustainable fisheries policy; and (5) Advance and implement marine spatial planning. Since 2012, there has been progress in recovering and sustaining the health of Canada’s oceans. Failure to further strengthen biodiversity conservation threatens the capacity of Canada’s oceans to provide ecosystem services that contribute to the resilience of marine life and the well-being of humankind. Unprecedented and enduring changes in the ocean caused by climate change have made the achievement of meaningful progress all the more urgent.
Remotely piloted aircraft imagery for automatic tree counting in forest restoration areas: a case study in the Amazon
Authors: Albuquerque Rafael Walter , Costa Marcelo Oliveira , Ferreira Manuel Eduardo , Carrero Gabriel Cardoso , Grohmann Carlos Henrique
Published: April 2020

Throughout the world, restoration of degraded areas (RDA) is not only a global but also a local challenge. In this context, the Brazilian government committed itself to restore 12 million hectares of forests by 2030. RDA monitoring customarily depends on extensive fieldwork to collect data on all individuals planted. As remotely piloted aircrafts (RPAs) can reduce costs and time of fieldwork activities, studying this technology is therefore timely given. A crucial metric for RDA is the number of trees established in the area. Methods using RPAs on automatic tree counting showed good accuracy using algorithms based on the canopy height model (CHM), which is the difference between a digital surface model (DSM) and a digital terrain model (DTM). However, obtaining a DTM demands an extra computational processing step and may require field control points or manually delimiting objects on the surface. The study presented here proposes and evaluates a semi-automated methodology for counting trees directly on DSM in RDAs in the Amazon using RPA coupled with a red–green–blue standard photographic sensor. The DSM method obtained good overall accuracy and F-score indexes, superior to the CHM method for all study areas even when overall accuracy was low for both methods.
Efficacy and Safety ofGinkgo bilobain Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chong Phui Zee , Ng Huey Ying , Tai Jing Tong , Lee Shaun Wen Huey
Published: April 2020

Ginkgo biloba and its extract have been suggested to have a neuroprotective role in patients with acute ischemic stroke. We aimed to examine the efficacy and safety of Ginkgo biloba use in patients with acute ischemic stroke. We searched seven databases for randomized controlled studies examining the use of Ginkgo biloba in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Relevant studies were retrieved, screened, and data were extracted independently by two reviewers. Random effects meta-analyses were performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety outcomes of Ginkgo biloba. We subsequently assessed the certainty of evidence using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation) methodology. We found 12 randomized controlled studies enrolling 1466 patients. Pooled results suggest that Ginkgo biloba use was associated with an improvement in neurological function among individuals with AIS with a reduction of 2.87 points on the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score (95% CI: [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]). Ginkgo biloba use was also associated with an improvement in activities of daily living and functional outcome (Mean Difference: 9.52; 4.66–14.33, [Formula: see text]). Subgroup analysis suggest that the impact was larger when using an injectable formulation of Ginkgo biloba compared to the oral formulation. There was no apparent impact of Ginkgo biloba use on all-cause mortality (Risk ratio (RR): 1.21; 0.29–5.09, [Formula: see text]) or cerebrovascular bleeding (RR: 0.82; 0.43–1.57, [Formula: see text]). There was limited evidence on to support the use of gingko biloba in terms of improving quality of life and other stroke events. As such, more studies are needed before it can be recommended for routine use in improving neurological and cognitive function in patients with acute ischemic stroke.
Partitioned Extracts ofBauhinia championiiInduce G0/G1Phase Arrest and Apoptosis in Human Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Chen Yun-Fang , Lee An-Sheng , Chen Wei-Yu , Lin Chia-Hsin , Kuo Chao-Lin , Chung Jing-Gung
Published: April 2020

Bauhinia championii (Benth.) is one of the commonly used herbs in Taiwan. The stem of this plant has been used to treat epigastria pain and rheumatoid arthritis. However, the antitumor activities of this herb have never been reported. This study aims to investigate the mechanism of anticancer activity of the extracts from B. championii (BC). BC was fractionated with a series of organic solvents, including n-hexane (H), ethyl acetate (EA), 1-butanol (B), and water (W). We first investigated the effects of BC-H, BC-EA, BC-B and BC-W partitioned fraction on cell viability. In HCT 116 colon cancer cell lines, BC-EA showed the highest inhibition of cell viability and changed the morphology of cells. With dose- and time-dependent manners, BC-EA inhibited the proliferation of HCT 116 cells by inducing apoptosis and G0/G1phase arrest of cell cycle. To determine the underlying mechanisms, down-regulated CDK2, Cyclin D, and Cyclin E and up-regulated p16, p21, and p53 may account for the cell cycle arrest, while the apoptotic effect of BC-EA may attribute to increased intracellular Ca[Formula: see text], loss of mitochondria membrane potential ([Formula: see text]), increase of Bax, Bak, puma, and AIF, and decrease of Bcl-2. Furthermore, the inactivation of Ras signaling pathway by BC-EA also contributed to its apoptotic effect on HCT 116. Our study demonstrates that BC-EA not only inhibits cell growth but also induces apoptosis through inhibiting Ras signal pathway and increasing p53 expression levels. We suggest that BC-EA may be a new dietary supplement and a useful tool to search for therapeutic candidates against colon cancer.
Forget the Bat
Authors: Holland Owen
Published: April 2020

The philosophical legacy of the idea that there must be something it is like to be a conscious organism, together with an inclination to regard organic life forms as having qualities fundamentally distinct from other physical systems, have adversely affected the development of the nascent discipline of machine consciousness. This paper highlights some of the factors involved, and as a corrective proposes a reframing of machine consciousness within a thoroughgoing engineering context. This is shown to offer some significant avenues for progress, while bringing with it some theoretical problems requiring further consideration such as the status of the possible consciousness of a wholly virtual system.
Technology and Consciousness Workshops (2017): An Introductory Overview
Authors: Williams Damien Patrick , Murray John
Published: April 2020

This report introduces the activities of eight one-week workshops that were held during the summer of 2017 on the topic “Technology and Consciousness.” Participants in the series of workshops approached the subject from many different perspectives, with the overall goal of exploring the possibility of machine consciousness, and assessing its potential implications. The body of this initial paper summarizes the overview topics and basic introductory themes that were discussed during the early part of the workshop series. Follow-on papers will address the key focus areas that were examined in depth during the course of the full series.
Changes in quadriceps femoris muscle perfusion following different degrees of cold-water immersion
Authors: Mawhinney Chris , Heinonen Ilkka , Low David A. , Han Chunlei , Jones Helen , Kalliokoski Kari K. , Kirjavainen Anna , Kemppainen Jukka , Di Salvo Valter , Weston Matthew , Cable Tim , Gregson Warren
Published: April 2020

Using positron emission tomography, we report for the first time muscle perfusion heterogeneity in the quadriceps femoris in response to different degrees of cold-water immersion (CWI). Noxious CWI temperatures (8°C) increase perfusion in the deep quadriceps muscle, whereas superficial quadriceps muscle perfusion is reduced in cooler (15°C) water. Therefore, these data have important implications for the selection of CWI approaches used in the treatment of soft tissue injury, while also increasing our understanding of the potential mechanisms underpinning CWI.
Intraoperative Patella Dimension Measurement in Asian Female Patients and Its Relevance in Patellar Resurfacing in TKA
Authors: Ab Rahman Shaifuzain , Ahmed Shokri Amran , Ahmad Muhammad Rajaie , Ismail Ahmad Filza , Termizi Nur Syahida
Published: April 2020

Background. Implants used for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in Asian patients are mostly produced based on anthropometry of the Western population, thus causing problem with patella sizing, especially in Asian females where the patellae are regarded to be smaller. This study is to define intraoperative patella dimensions in our female populations and compare them with current prosthetic systems available at our institution. Methods. This is a cross-sectional study involving 156 TKA female patients with normal patellae. The patella height, width, thickness, medial and lateral articular facets’ width and thickness, and the dome position were measured. The smallest implant size from 3 manufacturers was compared to the data obtained. Analysis using descriptive statistics was used to get the mean and median of anatomical patella dimensions, whereas the independent T test and one-way ANOVA test were used to compare the Malaysian female’s patella dimensions with various implant sizes. Results. The articular surface of the patella was found to have an oval shape with a width-height ratio of 1.31. The mean (SD) patella thickness, width, and height were 20.7 (1.85) mm, 40.7 (3.79) mm, and 31.3 (2.81) mm, respectively. Only 17.9% fit for smallest implant size from all 3 manufacturers. The oval-shape implant was suitable in 53.8% patients based on their width-height ratio. The dome position is 2.2 mm medial to centre. Conclusion. These female patients have thinner and smaller patella, which are generally unable to accommodate patellar components based on the Caucasian database. Therefore, orthopaedic implant manufacturers should consider optimizing the thicknesses as well as widths of their patellar prostheses.
Fatal Cerebral Edema in a Young Adult with Diabetic Ketoacidosis: Blame the Bicarbonate?
Authors: Natarajan Sameera , Kulkarni Radhika , Tangri Apoorva
Published: April 2020

Cerebral edema is a devastating complication of DKA which is extremely rare in adults but is the leading cause of diabetes-related death in the pediatric population. Newly diagnosed diabetes, younger age, first episode of DKA, severity of DKA at presentation, and administration of bicarbonate are predictive of cerebral edema in DKA. We present a case of a young adult with DKA as the presenting symptom of diabetes, whose clinical course was complicated by renal failure, refractory shock, and cerebral edema. This case addresses the controversy surrounding bicarbonate therapy in DKA and its possible role in the development of a rare fatal complication of DKA.
Numerical Algorithms for Calculating Temperature, Layered Stress, and Critical Current of Overhead Conductors
Authors: Liu Yongdou , Chen Zhiwei , Gu Quan
Published: April 2020

Accurate calculation of temperature, stress, sag, and critical current (corresponding to critical temperature) of operational overhead conductors is important for ensuring the strength and sag safety of overhead lines. Based on 2D steady-state heat transfer equations, this article studies the temperature fields of the cross section of typical electrified conductors and establishes numerical simulation methods for calculating the layered stress, sag, and critical temperature. Using the algorithm, the relationship between the critical temperature and characteristics of conductors (e.g., the sag and tensile force) is studied. The results are verified by a comparison with the test results for heat-resistant aluminum alloy conductors JNRLH1/G1A-400/65 and JNRLH1/G1A-630/55. Finally, the paper studies the relationship between the critical temperature of the conductor and its most sensitive factors.