bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crack tip microplasticity mediated by microstructure gradients
Authors: Castelluccio Gustavo M. , Lim Hojun , Emery John M. , Battaile Corbett C.
Published: June 2021

Traditional fracture theories infer damage at cracks (local field) by surveying loading conditions away from cracks (far field). This approach has been successful in predicting ductile fracture, but it normally assumes isotropic and homogeneous materials. However, myriads of manufacturing procedures induce heterogeneous microstructural gradients that can affect the accuracy of traditional fracture models. This work presents a microstructure‐sensitive finite element approach to explore the shielding effects of grain size and crystallographic orientation gradients on crack tip microplasticity and blunting. A dislocation density‐based crystal plasticity model conveys texture evolution, grain size effects, and directional hardening by computing the constraint from dislocation structures. The results demonstrate that the microstructure can act as a buffer between the local and far fields that affects the crack tip microplasticity variability. For nominal opening loading, grain size and texture affect the local ductility and induce a non‐negligible multiaxial plastic deformation. Furthermore, driving forces based on measuring displacements away from the crack tip are less affected by the microstructure, which suggests that traditional experimental methods smear out important crack tip variability.
MAFLD better predicts the progression of atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk than NAFLD: Generalized estimating equation approach
Authors: Tsutsumi Tsubasa , Eslam Mohammed , Kawaguchi Takumi , Yamamura Sakura , Kawaguchi Atsushi , Nakano Dan , Koseki Masahiro , Yoshinaga Shinobu , Takahashi Hirokazu , Anzai Keizo , George Jacob , Torimura Takuji
Published: June 2021

Aim

Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) partly overlaps with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Thus, using a generalized estimating equation (GEE) approach, we aimed to investigate the difference in worsening of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk between patients with MAFLD and NAFLD. We also investigated factors related to the difference between the two groups.

Methods

We enrolled 2306 subjects with fatty liver (MAFLD 80.7%, NAFLD 63.4%). Subjects with MAFLD/NAFLD were sub‐classified into three groups: NAFLD with no metabolic dysfunction (non‐Met NAFLD), overlapping, and MAFLD with moderate alcohol consumption (mod‐Alc MAFLD). ASCVD risk was estimated by non‐invasive tests, including the Suita score. An event was defined as worsening of these scores from the low‐risk to the high‐risk group. Independent factors for the event were analyzed by Cox regression analysis with the GEE.

Results

In Cox regression analysis, MAFLD (HR 1.08, 95% CI 1.02–1.15, p = 0.014) and alcohol consumption (20–39 g/day; HR 1.73, 95% CI 1.26–2.36, p = 0.001) were independently associated with worsening of the Suita score. In a subanalysis, the incidence of the event was significantly lower in non‐Met NAFLD than in the overlapping group (HR 0.70, 95% CI 0.50–0.98, p = 0.042). However, no significant difference was observed in the incidence between the overlapping and mod‐Alc MAFLD group (HR 1.19, 95% CI 0.89–1.58, p = 0.235).

Conclusions

The GEE approach demonstrates that MAFLD better identifies patients with worsening of ASCVD risk than NAFLD. Moreover, the superiority of MAFLD over NAFLD was due to the presence of metabolic dysfunction rather than moderate alcohol consumption.
Merold Westphal and the Adversary’s Suspicion
Authors: Williams Trevor B.
Published: June 2021

Merold Westphal wrote the book Suspicion & Faith (1998) to explain that although modern atheists used the hermeneutics of suspicion to critique religious motives, their arguments can aid Christians in a devotional form of self‐examination. Westphal claimed that the ‘masters of suspicion’ often utilized a deeply biblical logic that is reminiscent of the prophetic polemics against false religion. In this article, the author adds to these reflections by pointing to the Adversary from the Book of Job as one who embodies the hermeneutics of suspicion. The author contends that, like the critiques of modern atheists, the Adversary’s question ‘Does Job fear God for nothing?’ (1:9b) can serve as a tool for self‐examination and moral development. The Book of Job shows how he asks critical questions about Job’s motives for religious piety by taking advantage of the logical groundwork of the prologue. This dialogue highlights the significance of Job’s integrity and his commitment to virtue without the need for incentive, but at the same time, it also encourages readers to doubt his motives through a pattern of doubt that is integral to the narrative. The first section of this article examines Suspicion & Faith and discusses its approach to modern atheism. Then, in the second section, the author engages in an exegetical analysis of Job 1‐2, with special attention to the prologue’s logical groundwork and motif of doubt. The article concludes with a theological reflection on how the hermeneutics of suspicion can augment Christian practice.
The Modest ECtHR Supervision of Spain´s Prison System
Authors: REY SÁNCHEZ CLARA , PASCUAL RODRÍGUEZ ESTER
Published: June 2021

The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) has not yet ruled against Spain for breaching Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) on account of the material conditions in Spanish prisons. Most of the ECtHR´s case law regarding Spanish prisons and detention conditions refers to theincommunicadodetention regime, for which the ECtHR has condemned Spain for breaching the procedural limb of Article 3 of the ECHR and, in its most recent decision on the topic:Portu Juanenea and Sarasola Yarzabal v. Spainof 13 October 2018, also for breaching the material limb of that same provision. Besides the case law regarding theincommunicadodetention regime, the ECtHR has ruled on issues related to arrangements for granting adjustments of sentence, which have traditionally been understood to fall outside the scope of the ECHR. In this sense,Del Río Prada v. Spainof 21 October 2013 andArrozpide Sarasola and Others v. Spainof 23 October 2018 constitute important attempts of re‐examining the concept of penalty for the purpose of extending the guarantees of the Convention. Still, however, altogether considered, the case law of the ECtHR on Spain's prison system and policies is relatively modest if compared with the significant case law issued against other European countries regarding this same topic. The reasons behind the limited ECtHR oversight of Spain's prison system are varied and not straightforward and the present article aims at shedding light on this question, while highlighting the many potential areas where an alignment with some of the criteria set forth by the ECtHR is needed.
CuO nanoparticles/Indonesian cedarwood essential oil‐loaded chitosan coating film: characterisation and antifungal improvement against Penicillium spp.
Authors: Wardana Ata Aditya , Kingwascharapong Passakorn , Tanaka Fumina , Tanaka Fumihiko
Published: June 2021

A novel formulation of composite coating comprising 0.8% chitosan (Chi) incorporating 0.025% CuO nanoparticles (CuO) and 0.5% Indonesian cedarwood essential oil (CEO) was fabricated by casting method. Fourier transform infrared, confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy analyses were employed to characterise the biocompatibility of each formulation. Additionally, the physico‐chemically properties of the composite coatings were characterised. The colour (L*), light transmission, zeta potential and roughness of Chi were significantly (P < 0.05) altered negatively by the presence of CuO or CEO; the colour (a*, b* and ∆E), apparent viscosity and transparency also changed positively as a consequence of CuO and CEO incorporation. The antifungal features of a pure Chi coating against Penicillium italicum and Penicillium digitatum were improved synergistically by CuO and CEO, confirmed by in vitro and in vivo assays. Composite coatings obtained in this work may have potential applications for active primary food packaging, particularly for fresh postharvest commodities.
Solvent fractionation of hard palm stearin to increase the concentration of tripalmitoylglycerol and dipalmitoyl‐stearoyl‐glycerol as substrates for synthesis of human milk fat substitute
Authors: Hasibuan Hasrul Abdi , Sitanggang Azis Boing , Andarwulan Nuri , Hariyadi Purwiyatno
Published: June 2021

This research aimed to produce triacylglycerols fraction rich in palmitic acid (PA) at the sn‐2 position from hard palm stearin (HPS) through acetone fractionation. Fractionations were done at HPS‐to‐acetone ratios of 1:3, 1:5 and 1:7 (w/v) and at temperatures of 25, 30 and 35 °C for 3 h. Triacylglycerols with PA at the sn‐2 position, such as tripalmitoylglycerol (PPP) and dipalmitoyl‐stearoyl‐glycerol (PPS), were concentrated in the solid fraction, obtained after separation by filtration. The optimal fractionation conditions were at a HPS‐to‐acetone ratio of 1:5 (w/v) and 30 °C. The total PPP and PPS content was more than 91%, with a corresponding yield of more than 59%. Triacylglycerols obtained were composed of more than 91% PA in which 88% were at the sn‐2 position. Conclusively, the solvent fractionation is a suited alternative method for the preparation of triacylglycerols used for the enzymatic synthesis of 1,3‐dioleoyl‐2‐palmitoylglycerol which is the main triacylglycerol for human milk fat substitute.
Nanoencapsulation of black seed oil by coaxial electrospraying: characterisation, oxidative stability and in vitro gastrointestinal digestion
Authors: Atay Elif , Altan Aylin
Published: June 2021

In this study, black seed oil‐loaded zein nanoparticles were produced via coaxial electrospraying. Nanoparticles obtained under optimised conditions had a uniform morphology with a mean diameter of 136 nm and a core–shell structure verified by confocal laser scanning microscope. The encapsulation efficiency of the oil in nanoparticles ranged from 65.3 to 97.2%. The peroxide value of oil in nanoparticles with high encapsulation efficiency was approximately three times lower than unencapsulated oil when stored at 60 °C for 55 days. The totox value of the encapsulated oil in nanoparticles stored at 25 °C was lower than the critical totox value of 30. The amount of thymoquinone released from encapsulated oil was low at the end of the gastric digestion, but the bioaccessibility of thymoquinone from encapsulated oil increased during intestinal digestion compared with free oil. These results demonstrated the successful nanoencapsulation of black seed oil with the improved oxidative stability due to the coaxial structures formed. Black seed oil‐loaded zein particles may have the potential to expand the use of black seed oil as a functional ingredient for food systems.
Using wavelets in the measurement of multiscale dependence between Saudi and selected foreign stock markets
Authors: Saâdaoui Foued
Published: June 2021

This paper examines the multiscale linkage between one of the main stock markets in the Arab region (Tadawul All Share Index, TASI) and two foreign markets among its major partners (Dow Jones Industrial (DJI) and Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE)). A set of wavelet‐based multifractal and cross‐analysis tools are used to recognize signs of clustering or scattering between these markets in the time–frequency space. The experiment is designed to include a noteworthy period of instability in the financial sector along by a high recession in the global economic system. The results indicate that most cross‐correlations corresponding to the highest wavelet detail are statistically significant, especially for central lead–lag coefficients. At the highest frequency bands, significance is rejected for most cross‐correlations, thus providing investors with various short‐term investment replacements and portfolio diversification openings. Over the crisis period, cross‐correlations take a skewed distribution, which proves that foreign indexes have a higher predictive power for TASI's time series. Furthermore, the interdependence TASI–DJI is confirmed through several periods and at various frequencies, whereas the TASI–FTSE nexus was inclined to be slightly less important, particularly in short‐run horizons. Another surprising result is that in the midst of the crisis, while high and continuous cross‐correlations were expected, on a particular frequency band, we noted a significant dissociation between the Saudi index and the two international indexes. These findings would offer investors in Saudi Arabia new insights and tools for an increasingly globalized investment world.
DC electric field‐assisted hot pressing of zirconia: Methodology, phenomenology, and sintering mechanism
Authors: Xu Jingkun , Liu Zetan , Xie Zhipeng , He Shan , Xi Xiaoqing
Published: June 2021

Flash sintering (FS) is an important technique in the field of ceramic sintering. Nevertheless, conventional FS is less attractive for practical applications because of the complex shapes and small sizes of the specimens. In this study, using the novel electric field‐assisted hot pressing (FAHP) technique, we successfully achieved FS during the net‐shape hot pressing (HP) process for the first time. It was found that the 3 mol% yttria‐stabilized zirconia (3YSZ) can be flash sintered at 909°C using a fairly low DC field of 33 V/cm under 30 MPa pressure. The grain sizes of the FAHP‐sintered samples were 20% smaller than that of the HP‐sintered sample. When the current density limit is ≥240 mA/mm2, 3YSZ can be fully densified during the flash events. Careful analysis of the sintering curves suggests that although the carrier type or concentration is changed during flash events, it cannot explain the ultrafast densification. Additionally, we devised a qualitative method to analyze the densification mechanism. The results indicated that the ultrafast densification observed during flash events resulted from the synergistic effects of the rapid heating rate and peak sample temperature. Finally, the atomic force microscopy confirmed the lower grain boundary energy for the FAHP‐sintered samples, which accounts for the smaller grain sizes than the HP‐sintered sample. We believe that the FAHP technique could create new possibilities for theoretical and applied research on field‐assisted sintering techniques.
Follow‐up of the Cool Little Kids translational trial into middle childhood
Authors: Bayer Jordana K. , Brown Amy , Prendergast Luke A. , Bretherton Lesley , Hiscock Harriet , Mihalopoulos Cathrine , Nelson‐Lowe Margaret , Gilbertson Tamsyn , Noone Kate , Bischof Natalie , Beechey Cassima , Muliadi Fenny , Rapee Ronald M.
Published: June 2021

Background

Public health advocates have highlighted internalising problems as a leading cause of global burden of disease. Internalising problems (anxiety/depression) affect up to 20% of school‐age children and can impact peer relations, school engagement and later employment and mortality. This translational trial aimed to determine whether a selective/indicated parenting group programme to prevent internalising distress in shy/inhibited preschool children had sustained effects in middle childhood. Translational design aspects were a brief parent‐report screening tool for child inhibition offered universally across the population via preschools in the year before school, followed by an invitation to parents of all inhibited children to attend the parenting programme at venues in their local community.

Methods

Design of the study was a randomised controlled trial. The setting was 307 preschool services across eight socioeconomically diverse government areas in Melbourne, Australia. Participants were 545 parents of inhibited four‐year‐old children of which 456 (84%) were retained during middle childhood (age of seven to 10 years). Early intervention was the Cool Little Kids parenting group programme, and control was ‘usual care’ access to available support services in the community. Primary outcomes were child anxiety and depression symptoms (parent and child report) and DSM‐IV anxiety disorders (assessor masked). Secondary outcomes were parenting practices and parent mental health.

Results

There was no significant difference in anxiety disorders between the intervention and control group during the three annual follow‐ups of the cohort in middle childhood (2015 43% vs. 41%, 2016 40% vs. 36%, 2017 27% vs. 30%, respectively; p’s > .05). There were also no significant differences in child anxiety or depression symptoms (by child or parent report), parenting practices or parent mental health, between the intervention and control group during middle childhood. However, a priori interaction tests suggested that for children with anxious parents, early intervention attenuated risk for middle childhood internalising problems.

Conclusions

An issue for population translation is low levels of parent engagement in preventive interventions. Initial effects of the Cool Little Kids parenting group programme in reducing shy/inhibited preschool children’s internalising distress at school entry dissipated over time, perhaps due to low engagement. Future translational research on early prevention of internalising problems could benefit from screening preschool children in the population at higher risk (combining temperamental inhibition and parent distress) and incorporating motivational techniques to facilitate family engagement.

Trial registration ISRCTN30996662 http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN30996662.
The effects of dapagliflozin on hepatic and visceral fat in type 2 diabetes patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Phrueksotsai Susrichit , Pinyopornpanish Kanokwan , Euathrongchit Juntima , Leerapun Apinya , Phrommintikul Arintaya , Buranapin Supawan , Chattipakorn Nipon , Thongsawat Satawat
Published: June 2021

Background and Aim

Sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors have shown excellent results in glucose control in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients, while also promoting weight loss. These mechanisms may be beneficial in the treatment of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Our study aims to investigate the effect of dapagliflozin on hepatic and visceral fat contents and related biochemical markers in T2DM with NAFLD patients.

Methods

This is a double‐blinded placebo‐controlled randomized, single‐center study. Non‐insulin‐dependent T2DM patients with NAFLD were prospectively enrolled and randomly assigned to receive either dapagliflozin (10 mg/day) or placebo for 12 weeks. The primary end‐point was the changes in intrahepatic lipid contents, evaluated by the liver attenuation index.

Results

Of 40 patients enrolled, 38 patients completed the study (dapagliflozin group, n = 18; placebo group, n = 20). Baseline demographic and laboratory findings were similar in both groups. After 12 weeks of treatment, dapagliflozin significantly decreased intrahepatic lipid contents demonstrated by an increase in liver attenuation index in comparison with the placebo treatment (5.8 ± 5.1 vs 0.5 ± 6.1 Hounsfield units, P = 0.006). Significant reduction in bodyweight, bodyfat, visceral fat/subcutaneous fat ratio, hemoglobin A1c, and alanine aminotransferase were also observed in the dapagliflozin‐treated group as compared with the placebo group (all P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in adipokines including adiponectin, leptin, and tumor necrosis factor‐α changes between the dapagliflozin‐treated group and the placebo group (all P = nonsignificant).

Conclusion

Dapagliflozin treatment for 12 weeks is associated with improvement in hepatic fat content, a decrease in visceral fat and bodyweight, enhanced glycemic control, and improved liver biochemistry among T2DM patients with NAFLD.
Features of post‐endoscopic submucosal dissection electrocoagulation syndrome for early gastric neoplasm
Authors: Kimura Hidenori , Yabuuchi Yohei , Notsu Akifumi , Yamamoto Yoichi , Yoshida Masao , Kawata Noboru , Takizawa Kohei , Kishida Yoshihiro , Imai Kenichiro , Ito Sayo , Hotta Kinichi , Ishiwatari Hirotoshi , Matsubayashi Hiroyuki , Ono Hiroyuki
Published: June 2021

Background and Aim

Post‐endoscopic submucosal dissection electrocoagulation syndrome (PECS) has become a common adverse event after colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) and esophageal ESD. However, little is known about PECS after gastric ESD. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the clinical features of PECS after gastric ESD.

Methods

Patients who underwent ESD for gastric cancer or adenoma between January 2016 and December 2017 were retrospectively investigated. PECS was clinically diagnosed based on the presence of upper abdominal pain and localized abdominal tenderness with a temperature of >37.5°C, without perforation. We analyzed the clinical features of PECS.

Results

A total of 637 ESD cases were enrolled; PECS occurred in 32 patients (5.0%), all of whom were diagnosed on postoperative Day 1. Among PECS cases, unplanned prolongation of hospitalization or fasting period was observed in 15 patients (47%). As a result, the median durations of hospitalization and fasting period were significantly longer in PECS cases (P = 0.008 and P < 0.001, respectively); however, the mean differences were less than a day. Additionally, all PECS cases recovered with conservative treatment.

Conclusions

PECS is considered a common adverse event after gastric ESD. More than half of patients with PECS could start diets and be discharged as well as those without PECS.
The role of race in rural‐urban suicide disparities
Authors: Peltzman Talya , Gottlieb Daniel J. , Levis Maxwell , Shiner Brian
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To assess the role that race‐ethnicity plays in modifying the observed rural‐urban disparity in suicide among Veteran Health Administration (VHA) users.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of 10,737,864 VHA users between 2003 and 2017, using cross‐linked VHA medical records and National Death Index mortality data to assess longitudinal race‐stratified rural‐urban differences in age‐ and sex‐adjusted annual suicide rates. We used Poisson regression and generated incident rate ratios (IRRs) to formally assess the impact of race on the rural‐urban suicide disparity. Given evidence of effect modification, we performed additional race‐stratified Poisson regression models.

Findings

Rurality is significantly associated with a higher risk of suicide in models which do not control for race (IRR = 1.14, 95% CI: 1.10‐1.17). However, when race is added to the model, rural residence is no longer significant (0.98, CI: 0.95‐1.01). Stratified models demonstrate that rural residence is significantly associated with a higher suicide risk among Hispanic VHA users (1.41, CI: 1.11‐1.79), but it is not substantially associated with suicide among White (0.97, CI: 0.94‐1.00) and Black (1.03, CI: 0.86‐1.23) VHA users. White VHA users have considerably higher suicide rates than Black and Hispanic VHA users, though the suicide rate among Hispanic VHA users, particularly those in rural settings, increased markedly over the period of observation.

Conclusions

Race significantly modifies the relationship between rural residence and suicide risk. Studies seeking to assess suicide disparity between rural and urban VHA user populations must include adjustment or stratification by race.
Baicalin protects giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii against Vibrio parahaemolyticus via modulation of the Toll signaling pathway
Authors: Li Xi‐Lian , Zhang Yu‐Fei , Shen Pei‐jing , Xu Yang , Gao Qiang , Cheng Hai‐Hua , Wang Wen‐Da , Gu Zhi‐min , Chen Xue‐Feng
Published: June 2021

To evaluate the protective effect of baicalin against a Vibrio parahaemolyticus challenge, immune parameters were analyzed and RNA interference (RNAi) was performed in the present study. The results from challenge tests showed that the cumulative mortalities in the 200 and 400 mg/kg baicalin groups after challenge with V. parahaemolyticus were significantly lower than they were in the 100 mg/kg baicalin or control groups (p < .05); the relative percent of survival reached 71.4%. Macrobrachium rosenbergii injected with V. parahaemolyticus exhibited a significant increase in lysozyme (LZM) and inducible nitric oxide synthase levels as well as phagocytic activity because of the immune response, while after treatment with baicalin, these immune parameters were further enhanced. The gene expression levels of anti‐lipopolysaccharide factors (ALFs), LZM, relish, and crustin were increased after treatment with baicalin or challenge with V. parahaemolyticus. The results of RNAi experiments demonstrated that the expression of crustins (Cru2, Cru4, Cru5, and Cru8), ALFs (ALF1, ALF3, ALF4, and ALF5), lysozymes (Lys1 and Lys2), and relish were significantly elevated after V. parahaemolyticus challenge. After MrToll4 was knocked down by siRNA, the expression levels of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), except relish and Cru4, were inhibited. However, after oral administration of 400 mg/kg baicalin, the expression levels of all these AMPs, except Cru2, Cru4, ALF3, and relish, were upregulated.
Confinement and intimate partner violence†
Authors: Gibbons M. Amelia , Murphy Tommy E. , Rossi Martín A.
Published: June 2021

The effect of confinement on intimate partner violence is hard to assess, partly because of usual endogeneity problems, but also because the often‐used report calls poorly measure that violence. We exploit self‐reported survey data from Argentina to study the extent to which the coronavirus pandemic quarantine had unintended consequences on intimate partner violence. The quarantine decree established clear exceptions for heterogeneous subsets of the population and, for reasons plausibly exogenous to the prevalence of intimate partner violence, only some individuals were forced to spend more time with their partners. Using this variability in exposure we find that the lockdown led to an increase between 12% and 35% in intimate partner violence, depending type of violence (emotional, physical or sexual). Given the Argentinian government imposed the full national lockdown when few people felt threatened by the virus, these effects are likely to have been triggered by the actual confinement.
The impact of invertebrate decomposers on plants and soil
Authors: Griffiths Hannah M. , Ashton Louise A. , Parr Catherine L. , Eggleton Paul
Published: June 2021

Soil invertebrates make significant contributions to the recycling of dead plant material across the globe. However, studies focussed on the consequences of decomposition for plant communities largely ignore soil fauna across all ecosystems, because microbes are often considered the primary agents of decay. Here, we explore the role of invertebrates as not simply facilitators of microbial decomposition, but as true decomposers, able to break down dead organic matter with their own endogenic enzymes, with direct and indirect impacts on the soil environment and plants. We recommend a holistic view of decomposition, highlighting how invertebrates and microbes act in synergy to degrade organic matter, providing ecological services that underpin plant growth and survival.
Effectiveness of interventions to maintain physical activity behavior (device‐measured): Systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Madigan Claire D. , Fong Mackenzie , Howick Jeremy , Kettle Victoria , Rouse Peter , Hamilton Louisa , Roberts Nia , Gomersall Sjaan R. , Daley Amanda J.
Published: June 2021

Physical activity has many physical, mental, and social health benefits. Interventions can be successful at helping people initiate participation, but there is a lack of evidence about the ability of these interventions to help adults maintain their physical activity. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aims to address this evidence gap. We investigated the extent to which successful physical activity interventions with demonstrated success within randomized controlled trials result in maintenance of device‐measured physical activity (at least 3 months post‐intervention end). Five databases were searched, and 8919 titles and abstracts were screened for eligibility, and 29 trials met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 22 were included in the meta‐analysis. We found that 60% to 80% of physical activity behavior was maintained, as equivalent to an additional 45 min/week of moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity and 945 steps per day compared with comparators. We also examined trials that randomized participants to maintenance interventions after an initial physical activity intervention (n = 7) and we found small effects (standardized mean difference 0.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.1 to 0.27). The evidence suggests that most (60%–80%) of the increases in physical activity in successful programs are maintained for at least 3 months and there are small effects from providing a maintenance intervention to the public. Registration: CRD42019144585.
Long‐term abscisic acid promotes golden2‐like1 degradation through constitutive photomorphogenic 1 in a light intensity‐dependent manner to suppress chloroplast development
Authors: Lee Juhun , Choi Bongsoo , Yun Areum , Son Namil , Ahn Gyeongik , Cha Joon‐Yung , Kim Woe‐Yeon , Hwang Inhwan
Published: June 2021

Abiotic stress, a serious threat to plants, occurs for extended periods in nature. Abscisic acid (ABA) plays a critical role in abiotic stress responses in plants. Therefore, stress responses mediated by ABA have been studied extensively, especially in short‐term responses. However, long‐term stress responses mediated by ABA remain largely unknown. To elucidate the mechanism by which plants respond to prolonged abiotic stress, we used long‐term ABA treatment that activates the signalling against abiotic stress such as dehydration and investigated mechanisms underlying the responses. Long‐term ABA treatment activates constitutive photomorphogenic 1 (COP1). Active COP1 mediates the ubiquitination of golden2‐like1 (GLK1) for degradation, contributing to lowering expression of photosynthesis‐associated genes such as glutamyl‐tRNA reductase (HEMA1) and protochlorophyllide oxidoreductase A (PORA), resulting in the suppression of chloroplast development. Moreover, COP1 activation and GLK1 degradation upon long‐term ABA treatment depend on light intensity. Additionally, plants with COP1 mutation or exposed to higher light intensity were more sensitive to salt stress. Collectively, our results demonstrate that long‐term treatment of ABA leads to activation of COP1 in a light intensity‐dependent manner for GLK1 degradation to suppress chloroplast development, which we propose to constitute a mechanism of balancing normal growth and stress responses upon the long‐term abiotic stress.
Peace and tourism: Bridging the gap through justice
Authors: Farmaki Anna , Stergiou Dimitrios
Published: June 2021

The inclusion of peace as a Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 16) in the United Nations’ Agenda 2030 underscores the interrelationships between peace, economic development, durable security, and promoting human rights. Within this context, tourism has been heralded by scholars and practitioners as a means to alleviate negative prejudice and improve human relations. Yet the existing research on tourism as peacebuilding shows little supportive evidence of tourism’s contributory role to peace, and instead forwards numerous claims that tourism inhibits peacebuilding by exacerbating economic, political, and socio‐cultural inequalities between opposing groups. This study examines the role of tourism as a potential vehicle for justice that may bridge the gap between tourism and sustainable peace. More precisely, it considers tourism as an agent of justice addressing economic, political, and social inequalities between opposing groups through distributive, procedural, and restorative justice‐related activities. Its analysis and findings offer insights that contribute to peace‐through‐tourism theory and practice while enhancing understanding of tourism’s contribution to the UN’s sustainable development goals.
Poly(lactide‐co‐ε‐caprolactone) scaffold promotes equivalent tissue integration and supports skin grafts compared to a predicate collagen scaffold
Authors: Ruppert David S. , Mohammed Mahmoud M. , Ibrahim Mohamed M. , Bachtiar Emilio O. , Erning Kevin , Ansari Kayvan , Everitt Jeffrey I. , Brown David , Klitzman Bruce , Koshut William , Gall Ken , Levinson Howard
Published: June 2021

Dermal scarring from motor vehicle accidents, severe burns, military blasts, etc. is a major problem affecting over 80 million people worldwide annually, many of whom suffer from debilitating hypertrophic scar contractures. These stiff, shrunken scars limit mobility, impact quality of life, and cost millions of dollars each year in surgical treatment and physical therapy. Current tissue engineered scaffolds have mechanical properties akin to unwounded skin, but these collagen‐based scaffolds rapidly degrade over 2 months, premature to dampen contracture occurring 6–12 months after injury. This study demonstrates a tissue engineered scaffold can be manufactured from a slow‐degrading viscoelastic copolymer, poly(ι‐lactide‐co‐ε‐caprolactone), with physical and mechanical characteristics to promote tissue ingrowth and support skin‐grafts. Copolymers were synthesized via ring‐opening polymerization. Solvent casting/particulate leaching was used to manufacture 3D porous scaffolds by mixing copolymers with particles in an organic solvent followed by casting into molds and subsequent particle leaching with water. Scaffolds characterized through SEM, micro‐CT, and tensile testing confirmed the required thickness, pore size, porosity, modulus, and strength for promoting skin‐graft bioincorporation and dampening fibrosis in vivo. Scaffolds were Oxygen Plasma Treatment and collagen coated to encourage cellular proliferation. Porosity ranging from 70% to 90% was investigated in a subcutaneous murine model and found to have no clinical effect on tissue ingrowth. A swine full‐thickness skin wound model confirmed through histology and Computer Planimetry that scaffolds promote skin‐graft survival, with or without collagen coating, with equal safety and efficacy as a commercially available tissue engineered scaffold. This study validates a scalable method to create poly(ι‐lactide‐co‐ε‐caprolactone) scaffolds with appropriate characteristics and confirms in mouse and swine wound models that the scaffolds are safe and effective at supporting skin‐grafts. The results of this study have brought us closer towards developing an alternative technology that supports skin grafts with the potential to investigate long‐term hypertrophic scar contractures.
Contributors to cancer-related fatigue in childhood cancer survivors and the use of non-pharmacological interventions: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Levesque Ariane , Caru Maxime , Duval Michel , Laverdière Caroline , Sultan Serge
Published: June 2021

Objective:

This scoping review will aim to identify the domains contributing to cancer-related fatigue in childhood cancer survivors and will explore whether non-pharmacological interventions have addressed these domains. This information will help to better define cancer-related fatigue, identify knowledge gaps in the literature, and direct future research efforts.

Introduction:

Cancer-related fatigue is a commonly reported symptom in aftercare following childhood cancer treatments. However, its operational definition and contributors are unclear, which makes it difficult to select targets and design adequate interventions. In this scoping review, we will identify contributing domains to help clarify their role as key characteristics of cancer-related fatigue. We will then review the evidence as to whether these contributing domains have been addressed by non-pharmacological interventions aimed at fatigue.

Inclusion criteria:

We will include articles on cancer-related fatigue following childhood cancer treatments (age at diagnosis ≤ 21 years) and non-pharmacological interventions aimed at reducing fatigue. Both will retain qualitative and quantitative studies will be considered for inclusion.

Methods:

In accordance with the JBI methodological framework for conducting scoping reviews, we will perform a search in PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Embase, Cochrane Library, Grey Matters, OAlster, and OpenGrey. We will use the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. Studies published in English or French will be included, with no date limitations. The data collection and analysis of eligible articles will be performed by two independent reviewers and will be classified in summary tables. The findings on contributors to cancer-related fatigue in childhood cancer survivors will be synthesized in a cross table linking contributor domains with intervention type.
Effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions to manage anxiety in adolescents in the perioperative period: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Pestana-Santos Márcia , Pereira Maria João , Santos Eduardo , Lomba Lurdes , Santos Margarida Reis
Published: June 2021

Objective:

This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions to manage anxiety in adolescents in the perioperative period.

Introduction:

Adolescents undergoing surgery suffer considerable levels of anxiety and distress before surgery, which are maintained beyond the procedure. Although the benefit of non-pharmacological interventions in this area is significant, their efficacy is still under-studied.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider studies that focus on adolescents aged 10 to 19 years, who have undergone a surgical procedure. All studies that focus on non-pharmacological interventions occurring in the perioperative period designed to reduce anxiety without restrictions on comparators, geography, or culture will be included.

Methods:

An initial limited search of PubMed and CINAHL has been undertaken and will be followed by a second search for published and unpublished studies, without limitations of publication date, in major health care–related electronic databases. Studies in English, Spanish, and Portuguese will be included. After full-text studies are retrieved, methodological quality assessment and data extraction will be performed independently by two reviewers. A narrative synthesis will accompany the results and, if possible, a meta-analysis will be performed and a Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) Summary of Findings presented.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42020184386
Use of three-dimensional printing as a rehabilitation tool for individuals with deafblindness or vision impairment: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Bleau Maxime , Jaiswal Atul , Holzhey Peter , Aubin Gabrielle , Do Anna , Dumassais Shirley , Mirmiran Roxane , Tangkhpanya Fatima , Wittich Walter
Published: June 2021

Objective:

This scoping review aims to synthesize evidence on the practices involving additive manufacturing, also known as three-dimensional printing, as a rehabilitation tool to assist individuals with deafblindness or vision impairment, and to identify which International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health domains of functioning can be improved by its use. The goal is to inform health care professionals and family caregivers on how additive manufacturing may enhance the quality of life of people with deafblindness or vision impairment.

Introduction:

Deafblindness and vision impairment impact many life domains, such as access to information, communication, and mobility. The sense of touch is the main gateway for communication for individuals living with these impairments. Additive manufacturing is a promising technology for producing customized, tactile-based, low-cost tangible objects and devices that could improve the functioning of those with sensory impairment. Emerging studies explore the benefits of additive manufacturing in rehabilitation, education, and inclusion of people living with vision impairment, but very little is known about its use for the deafblind.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider studies that focus on the most widespread additive manufacturing technologies for the use of individuals living with deafblindness or vision impairment, their family caregivers, or professionals who provide their rehabilitation care.

Methods:

A comprehensive search of 10 databases (PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Global Health, PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, ERIC, Web of Science, Engineering Village, and Scopus) will be conducted. Screening of records will be done at the title/abstract level and at the full-text level by independent reviewers of the team.
Evolutionary Design of Novel Coolant Passages for Cooling a Square Substrate by Single Stream
Authors: Sahoo Ajit K. , Barik Ashok K. , Swain Prafulla K.
Published: June 2021

Different designs of novel coolant (i.e., water) circuits have been proposed using a well-established constructal law to cool a square substrate made up of aluminum oxide and subjected to a uniform wall heat flux (i.e., q″=200 W/m2) at its top. Five different flow-path topologies: case-1 (umbrella-shaped), case-2 (dumbbell-shaped), case-3 (hexagonal-shaped), case-4 (down-arrow-shaped), and case-5 (up-arrow-shaped) are evolved from a single pipe embedded in the heated substrate. The best cooling pathway has been anticipated by comparing the thermo-fluid characteristics of all the designs. A numerical route, via ansys R 16, has been implemented to solve the transport equations for continuity, momentum, and energy along with relevant boundary conditions. To access a better design, the nondimensional temperature and pressure drop for these cases have been quantified and compared, by varying the length and Reynolds number in the range of 2≤Lc/L≤3 and 100≤Re≤2000, respectively. We observe a decrease in the temperature and an increase in the pressure drop with Reynolds number for all the considered pathways. When Re≤500, a rapid fall in the nondimensional temperature has been noticed; and thereafter, it looks like a plateau for all cases. For case-4, a minimum temperature is obtained at the nondimensional pipe length of 2.5. At Lc/L≤2.5, we observe that the case-4 provides better cooling to the substrate among all other designs. Also, the pressure drop for case-4 is not too high as compared to other designs.
Kinematic Design of Functional Nanoscale Mechanisms From Molecular Primitives
Authors: T. Chorsi Meysam , Tavousi Pouya , Mundrane Caitlyn , Gorbatyuk Vitaliy , Kazerounian Kazem , Ilies Horea T.
Published: June 2021

Natural nanomechanisms such as capillaries, neurotransmitters, and ion channels play a vital role in the living systems. But the design principles developed by nature through evolution are not well understood and, hence, not applicable to engineered nanomachines. Thus, the design of nanoscale mechanisms with prescribed functions remains a challenge. Here, we present a systematic approach based on established kinematics techniques to designing, analyzing, and controlling manufacturable nanomachines with prescribed mobility and function built from a finite but extendable number of available "molecular primitives." Our framework allows the systematic exploration of the design space of irreducibly simple nanomachines, built with prescribed motion specification by combining available nanocomponents into systems having constrained, and consequently controllable motions. We show that the proposed framework has allowed us to discover and verify a molecule in the form of a seven link, seven revolute (7R) close loop spatial linkage with mobility (degree of freedom) of one. Furthermore, our experiments exhibit the type and range of motion predicted by our simulations. Enhancing such a structure into functional nanomechanisms by exploiting and controlling their motions individually or as part of an ensemble could galvanize development of the multitude of engineering, scientific, medical, and consumer applications that can benefit from engineered nanomachines.
Modeling a Bidirectional Converter of Photovoltaic Systems for Flywheel Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed T. , Tafreshi Reza
Published: June 2021

Flywheel Energy Storage Systems (FESS) present an environment-friendly solution for storing and utilizing solar energy; however, voltage and current frequent fluctuations in solar module photovoltaic (PV) systems limit the efficiency of the FESS bidirectional converter. The converter’s function is to regulate and maintain the harnessed solar energy input to the FESS through the converter’s duty cycle. In this paper, a method is proposed to select the duty cycle of the bidirectional converter for efficient energy storage of the solar module PV system. The solar module PV system is first modeled and then validated through field-testing to determine the theoretical and experimental maximum power point (MPP) voltage and current output. The solar photovoltaic module model has an average percent difference of 12% compared to the field-testing results. The FESS and the bidirectional converter are separately modeled and then integrated to determine the FESS power output, efficiency, and flywheel rotational speed. The resulting FESS efficiency is 80% which is 14% higher than the efficiencies of FESS for off-grid PV applications available in the literature. The developed duty cycle selection of the bidirectional converter will aid in the development of commercial FESS for off-grid systems.
Multi-Objective Design Exploration of a Canine Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt for Hydrocephalus
Authors: Yingling Ryan , Balu Nellippallil Anand , Register Matthew , Hannan Travis , Simmons Jack , Shores Andy , Prabhu Raj K.
Published: June 2021

Hydrocephalus is a condition that affects humans and animals in which excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up within the ventricles of the brain, causing an increase in intracranial pressure. The CSF can be released using a ventriculoperitoneal shunt, which effectively removes the fluid from the ventricles of the brain to the peritoneal cavity. In canines, hydrocephalus is sometimes a fatal condition complicated by shunt failure due to obstructions. The medical procedure is also expensive and has a high failure rate over the long term.

In this paper, we present a systematic framework to carry out the multi-objective design exploration of canine shunts for managing hydrocephalus. We demonstrate the efficacy of the framework by designing a shunt prototype to meet specific goals of meeting the CSF flow rate target, minimizing shear stress on the shunt, and minimizing shunt weight. The shunt design variables considered for the problem include the inner diameter, inlet hole diameter, and the distance from the inlet holes to the outlet. A multi-objective design problem is formulated using the systematic framework to explore the combination of shunt design variables that best satisfy the conflicting goals defined. The framework and associated design constructs are generic and support the formulation and decision-based design of similar biomedical devices for different health conditions.
The costimulatory activity of Tim-3 requires Akt and MAPK signaling and its recruitment to the immune synapse
Authors: Kataoka Shunsuke , Manandhar Priyanka , Lee Judong , Workman Creg J. , Banerjee Hridesh , Szymczak-Workman Andrea L. , Kvorjak Michael , Lohmueller Jason , Kane Lawrence P.
Published: June 2021

The transmembrane receptor Tim-3 is recruited to the immune synapse of T cells, where it provides costimulatory signals.
Bacterial Metal Resistance: Coping with Copper without Cooperativity?
Authors: Greene Nicholas P. , Koronakis Vassilis
Published: June 2021

In
Escherichia coli
and other Gram-negative bacteria, tripartite efflux pumps (TEPs) span the entire cell envelope and serve to remove noxious molecules from the cell. CusBCA is a TEP responsible for copper and silver detoxification in
E. coli
powered by the resistance-nodulation-cell division (RND) transporter, CusA.