bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applications of Machining in Materials Manufacturing
Authors: Mann J. B. , Saei M. , Udupa A. , Puentes-Rodriguez B. Stiven , Sagapuram D.
Published: January 2021

The deformation conditions in machining of metals and alloys offer a unique route for materials processing with remarkable advantages over conventional deformation processes. The intense shear strain and high strain-rates in machining can be applied to form chips with controlled geometry. That is, the chip formation in machining can be used directly as a materials processing route wherein the chip becomes the product. The technical details for two of these processes — hybrid cutting-extrusion (HCE) and modulation-assisted machining (MAM) — are discussed and recent experimental results are presented. Both processes involve direct control of the shear-based deformation in machining. HCE applies an additional constraint in cutting which converts the otherwise uncontrolled chip thickness to a controlled format of specific size and shape. In HCE processing of sheet and strip, the deformed chip thickness is less than the deformed chip thickness in conventional cutting. The superimposed oscillation in MAM converts the otherwise continuous cutting process into a series of discrete cutting events. The control of the MAM and cutting conditions enable unique control of chip formation and the production of equiaxed, fiber, and platelet powder (particle) morphologies. The HCE and MAM processes demonstrate how chip control in machining can provide a route to applications opportunities in materials manufacturing.
Preliminary Study on High-Speed Machining of Hybrid Composite Stacks Using Nanoparticle Enhanced MQL
Authors: James Sagil , Nejadian Shayan
Published: January 2021

Hybrid composite stacks are multi-material laminates which find extensive applications in industries such as aerospace, automobile, and electronics. Most hybrid composites consist of multi-layer fiber composites, and metal sheets stacked together. These composite stacks have excellent physical and mechanical properties, including high strength, high hardness, high stiffness, excellent fatigue resistance, and low thermal expansion. Composite stacks are fabricated to near net shape; additional machining operations are often required for several applications, primarily in the aerospace industry. The most frequent machining operation is high-speed cold saw cutting of these hybrid stacks within specified tolerances. During the cutting process, the cutting fluids play a significant role by reducing the cutting temperature and cutting forces, thereby increasing the surface quality finish of the hybrid composite stack. However, most of the cutting fluids pose environmental and health risks. Recently, researchers have been exploring the possibilities of using MQL to overcome the adverse effects of traditional cutting fluids. This research investigates MQL based cutting of hybrid composite stacks using different types of nanoparticle-enhanced vegetable oils. Specifically, the nanoparticles of choice that have found extensive popularity within the booming nano industry: Al2O3, Al(s), Ni(s), and Carbon Nanotubes (SWCNTs). For this study, CFRP/Al and CFRP/Ti composite stacks are used as the substrates. The effects of critical process parameters on the quality, surface roughness, and interface delamination of the composite materials are studied. The process parameters under consideration include the type of vegetable oils utilized, namely, jojoba and castor oil, the nanoparticle-enhancement effects, and the construction of the hybrid composite stack. From the results of this study, it is found that the chemistry between the MQL of choice and the dispersion of the nanoparticles is of critical importance. The results of this study are expected to open new possibilities for eco-friendly and cost-effective methods for cold saw cutting advanced engineering materials.
Group III selenides: Controlling dimensionality, structure, and properties through defects and heteroepitaxial growth
Authors: Olmstead Marjorie A. , Ohuchi Fumio S.
Published: January 2021

This Review describes behaviors and mechanisms governing heteroepitaxial nucleation and growth of group III (Al, Ga, and In)–selenium (Se) based semiconductors by molecular beam epitaxy and the properties of the resultant nanoscale films. With nine bonding electrons per AIII–BVI pair, these chalcogenide semiconductors crystallize in a variety of locally tetrahedral bulk structures that incorporate intrinsic vacancies (atom-sized voids) lined with doubly occupied lone-pair orbitals, including layered, defected zinc blende and defected wurtzite structures. During heteroepitaxial growth, the choice of how the vacancies order and which phase results, as well as interface reactions, intermixing, surface passivation, and film morphology, are controlled by electron counting, substrate symmetry, and size mismatch. Nucleation and growth of AlxSey, GaxSey, and InxSey compounds on Si and GaAs, including initial reactions, layer nucleation, symmetry, crystal structure, defects, dimensionality, and stoichiometry, were studied with a combination of techniques, including photoelectron spectroscopy, x-ray photoelectron diffraction, scanning tunneling microscopy, x-ray absorption spectroscopy, and low energy electron diffraction. The unique crystal structure of Ga2Se3 was also investigated as a novel platform for doping with transition metals to create a dilute magnetic semiconductor: Cr:Ga2Se3 is ferromagnetic at room temperature, while Mn:Ga2Se3 results in the precipitation of MnSe. The present study provides new insight into growing interest in variable dimensional materials, using group III selenides as prototypes, to address the basic physical chemistry governing the heteroepitaxy of dissimilar materials.
β-Ga2O3 Schottky diodes based strain gauges with high resistance, large gauge factor, and high operating temperature
Authors: Liu Bo-You , Li Jian V.
Published: January 2021

We report observation of the piezoresistive effect of β-Ga2O3 Schottky diodes and investigate its application for strain gauge sensors. The Schottky diode-based strain gauge exhibits resistance on the order of 107 Ω, which allows low power applications. A large gauge factor of −201 ± 43 is measured from a Pt/(2¯01) β-Ga2O3 Schottky diode at room temperature, enabling the strain-induced resistance change to be measurable without a Wheatstone bridge. Mechanical exfoliation in the (100) surface produces β-Ga2O3 single crystal thin films, which are more suitable for strain gauge applications than bulk substrates. Owing to the wide bandgap nature, we demonstrate high-temperature operation of strain sensing based on β-Ga2O3 Schottky diodes up to 800 K. The β-Ga2O3 Schottky diodes simultaneously function as temperature sensors, which may enable temperature compensation of strain gauge output.
How League and Community Affect Corporate Philanthropy in Professional Sport: A Multiple Field Embeddedness Perspective
Authors: Yang Daniel , Babiak Kathy
Published: January 2021

A specific form of corporate social responsibility—corporate philanthropy—has received little attention in sport scholarship despite the increased formalization of this business function in practice. Specifically, few studies have explored the institutional mechanisms that influence the corporate philanthropy of professional sport teams. Given that teams receive simultaneous institutional pressures from their league and from the community in which they operate, this study examined how the presence of multiple peers from different fields affected teams in terms of determining the appropriate level of philanthropic activity. The hypotheses were tested through a longitudinal analysis of philanthropic data from team foundations in four professional leagues in the United States from 2005 to 2017. The authors found that teams were more likely to be affected by the philanthropic giving levels of league peers than local peers. Overall, this study provides a better understanding of simultaneous institutional pressures shaping the philanthropic activities of professional sport teams.
New variant of bipartite patella with traumatic separation and complete disruption of the extensor mechanism of the knee
Authors: Naikoti Kiran Kumar , Thonse Raghuram
Published: January 2021

Very few case reports have been reported on traumatic separation of the bipartite patella along with quadriceps tendon rupture. These reports relate to separation of superolateral bipartite patella (Saupe type 3). We describe a new variant which to our knowledge has not been described or classified so far, which is purely a superior bipartite patella with traumatic separation and complete functional disruption of the extensor mechanism of the knee in a young patient working in the army which was managed with open reduction and internal fixation along with repair of the extensor mechanism of the knee achieving complete functional recovery.
Clinical improvement of cardiac function in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction treated with belimumab
Authors: Baniaamam Milad , Voskuyl Alexandre E , Nurmohamed Michael T , Handoko M Louis
Published: January 2021

We present a 51-year-old Caucasian woman, with a medical history of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who had dyspnoea at exertion. The SLE was clinically quiescent but serologically active. Echocardiography showed preserved left ventricular (LV) systolic function, pseudonormal mitral inflow pattern (diastolic dysfunction grade III), absence of wall motion abnormalities and elevated E/e’ at exercise. An exercise right heart catheterisation was performed, confirming the diagnosis of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). In the absence of other possible causes, we assumed that HFpEF was mediated by systemic inflammation secondary to SLE. Based on the Paulus’ paradigm, that systemic inflammation may lead to diastolic dysfunction, we decided to add belimumab (a biological agent against soluble B-lymphocyte stimulator protein). After 16 weeks of treatment, patient reported an improved condition. Also, cardiopulmonary exercise test and echocardiography results improved, confirming resolution of the underlying LV diastolic dysfunction. This case supports the idea that targeting inflammation has therapeutic potential in a subset of HFpEF-patients.
Ciliated respiratory epithelium encapsulatingPseudomonasbrain abscess due to prior trauma
Authors: Jena Nihar Kanta , Khine Justin , Khosrodad Nadia , Krishnamoorthy Geetha
Published: January 2021

Bacterial brain abscesses are typically spread through a haematogenous route. Open head wounds and neurosurgical interventions are uncommon aetiologies. Ectopic tissue found in the cerebral cortex is usually ascribed almost entirely from carcinomas. Here, we describe a 57-year-old gentleman who, 22 years after a fireworks related traumatic injury to the left orbit, presented with headaches and altered behaviour. Imaging revealed an abscess immediately superior to the orbit, whose bacterial aetiology was identified to bePseudomonas aeruginosa,encapsulated by ciliated respiratory epithelium. This represents a case in which tissue was displaced during the initial trauma or craniofacial reconstructive surgery from the frontal sinus.
Deep vein thrombosis with pulmonary thromboembolism in a case of severe COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Devi Sujata , Mohakud Sudipta , Kar Nilanjan , Muthuvel Divya
Published: January 2021

A 53-year-old man with diabetes came to the emergency department with fever and dry cough for 5 days, swelling of the left leg for 2 days, shortness of breath and chest pain for 1 hour. He had raised temperature, tachycardia, tachypnoea, reduced oxygen saturation and swollen tender left leg on examination. The frontal chest radiograph showed bilateral ground-glass opacities; he tested positive for COVID-19 with elevated D-dimer. The colour Doppler examination of the left leg revealed acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the common femoral and the popliteal veins. The chest CT showed bilateral diffuse ground-glass opacities predominantly involving peripheral zones and the lower lobes. The CTPA revealed left pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE), treated with low-molecular-weight heparin. COVID-19 predominantly affects the respiratory system. DVT and PTE are common in COVID-19 but lethal. They should be diagnosed early by clinical and radiological examinations and treated promptly with anticoagulants.
Non-Obstetric Safety of Epidurals (NOSE)
Authors: Cook Fabian Alexander Blyth , Millar Emma , Mclennan Flora , Janssens Marc , Stretton Catherine
Published: January 2021

Epidurals are a useful perioperative procedure for effective analgesia that allow early mobilisation after major surgery and help to minimise postoperative pulmonary, cardiovascular and thromboembolic complications. However, there are potential rare but life-changing complications such as an epidural haematoma. These require a high standard of post-epidural care for prompt recognition and prevention of permanent paralysis. Following a local critical incident of delayed diagnosis of an epidural haematoma in a patient after epidural catheter removal, a multidisciplinary team undertook a Quality Improvement (QI) project to improve epidural safety. To achieve this aim, it is essential that healthcare staff are aware of the early signs of neurological complications during and after epidurals and of what action to take in the event of a developing complication. The application of robust QI methodology has contributed to a sustained improvement in the healthcare staff competence (as measured using a pulse survey) at managing patients who have received perioperative epidurals. This increased from a baseline mean survey score of 38% on three surgical step down wards (general surgery, vascular and gynaecology) to 68% (averaged over the most recent 3 months of the project time frame). Educational interventions alone rarely lead to meaningful and lasting impact for all healthcare staff, due to high turnover of staff and shift working patterns. However, with multiple plan, do, study, act cycles, and a robust QI approach, there was also sustained improvement in process measures, including the occurrence of written handover from high dependency to the step down wards (baseline 33%–71%), ensuring the application of yellow epidural alert wristbands to make these patients readily identifiable (56%–86%), and early signs in improvement in reliability of motor block checks for 24 hours’ post-catheter removal (47%–69%).
Serum calprotectin as new biomarker for disease severity in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a cross-sectional study in two independent cohorts
Authors: Machahua Carlos , Guler Sabina A. , Horn Michael P. , Planas-Cerezales Lurdes , Montes-Worboys Ana , Geiser Thomas K. , Molina-Molina Maria , Funke-Chambour Manuela
Published: January 2021

Background

Non-invasive biomarkers for the assessment of disease severity in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) are urgently needed. Calprotectin belongs to the S-100 proteins produced by neutrophils, which likely contribute to IPF pathogenesis. Calprotectin is a well-established biomarker in inflammatory bowel diseases. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to establish the potential role of calprotectin as a biomarker in IPF. Specifically, we hypothesised that patients with IPF have higher serum calprotectin levels compared with healthy controls, and that calprotectin levels are associated with disease severity.

Methods

Blood samples were obtained from healthy volunteers (n=26) and from two independent IPF cohorts (derivation cohort n=26, validation cohort n=66). Serum calprotectin levels were measured with a commercial kit adapted for that purpose and compared between healthy controls and patients with IPF. Clinical parameters, including forced vital capacity, diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) and the Composite Physiologic Index (CPI), were correlated with calprotectin serum levels.

Results

The IPF derivation cohort showed increased serum calprotectin levels compared with healthy controls (2.47±1.67 vs 0.97±0.53 µg/mL, p<0.001). In addition, serum calprotectin levels correlated with DLCO% predicted (r=−0.53, p=0.007) and with CPI (r=0.66, p=0.007). These findings were confirmed in an independent IPF validation cohort.

Conclusion

Serum calprotectin levels are significantly increased in patients with IPF compared with healthy controls and correlate with DLCO and CPI. Calprotectin might be a potential new biomarker for disease severity in IPF.
Health expectancies in the European Union: same concept, different methods, different results
Authors: Santos João Vasco , Viana João , Devleesschauwer Brecht , Haagsma Juanita A , Santos Cristina Costa , Ricciardi Walter , Freitas Alberto
Published: January 2021

Background

Healthy life expectancy (HLE) is a population health measure that combines mortality and morbidity, which can be calculated using different methods. In this study, we aimed to assess the correlation, reliability and (dis)agreement between two estimates monitored in the European Union (EU), that is, the European Commission's HLE based on self-perceived health (SPH-HLE) and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation's HLE based on disability weight (DW-HLE), by sex, and comparing these results with LE and proportion of life spent in good health (%GH).

Methods

We performed a retrospective study in the EU28 countries, between 2010 and 2017. The HLE methods differ in definition, measurement and valuation of health states. While SPH-HLE relies directly on one question, DW-HLE relies on epidemiological data adjusted for DW. Spearman’s r, intraclass correlation coefficient, information-based measure of disagreement and Bland-Altman plots were used to assess reliability, correlation and disagreement in HLE resulting from both methods and in LE or %GH measured by both institutions.

Results

Correlation and reliability between SPH-HLE and DW-HLE were good (better for males), with low disagreement, and were even better for LE between both institutions. The HLE Bland-Altman plots suggest a variability range of approximately 6 years for both sexes, higher for females. There was also an increasing HLE difference between methods with higher average HLE for both sexes.

Conclusion

We showed wide variations between both methods with a clear and different high impact on female and male HLE, showing a tendency for countries with higher health expectancies to yield larger gaps between SPH-HLE and DW-HLE.
Potential Use of Biomarkers for the Clinical Evaluation of Sarcoidosis
Authors: Mousapasandi Amir , Herbert Cristan , Thomas Paul
Published: January 2021

Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disease of unknown etiology and pathogenesis with a heterogeneous clinical presentation. In the appropriate clinical and radiological context and with the exclusion of other diagnoses, the disease is characterized by the pathological presence of non-caseating epithelioid cell granulomas. Sarcoidosis is postulated to be a multifactorial disease caused by chronic antigenic stimulation. The immunopathogenesis of sarcoidosis encompasses a complex interaction between the host, genetic factors and postulated environmental and infectious triggers, which result in granuloma development.

The exact pathogenesis of the disease has yet to be elucidated, but some of the inflammatory pathways that play a key role in disease progression and outcomes are becoming apparent, and these may form the logical basis for selecting potential biomarkers.

Biomarkers are biological molecules that are altered pathologically. To date, there exists no single reliable biomarker for the evaluation of sarcoidosis, either diagnostically or prognostically but new candidates are emerging. A diagnosis of sarcoidosis ideally requires a biopsy confirming non-caseating granulomas, but the likelihood of progression that requires intervention remains unpredictable. These challenging aspects could be potentially resolved by incorporating biomarkers into clinical practice for both diagnosis and monitoring disease activity.

This review outlines the current knowledge on sarcoidosis with an emphasis on pulmonary sarcoidosis, and delineates the understanding surrounding the implication of biomarkers for the clinical evaluation of sarcoidosis.
Unravelling the clinical spectrum and the role of repeat length in C9ORF72 repeat expansions
Authors: van der Ende Emma L. , Jackson Jazmyne L. , White Adrianna , Seelaar Harro , van Blitterswijk Marka , Van Swieten John C.
Published: January 2021

Since the discovery of the C9orf72 repeat expansion as the most common genetic cause of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, it has increasingly been associated with a wider spectrum of phenotypes, including other types of dementia, movement disorders, psychiatric symptoms and slowly progressive FTD. Prompt recognition of patients with C9orf72-associated diseases is essential in light of upcoming clinical trials. The striking clinical heterogeneity associated with C9orf72 repeat expansions remains largely unexplained. In contrast to other repeat expansion disorders, evidence for an effect of repeat length on phenotype is inconclusive. Patients with C9orf72-associated diseases typically have very long repeat expansions, containing hundreds to thousands of GGGGCC-repeats, but smaller expansions might also have clinical significance. The exact threshold at which repeat expansions lead to neurodegeneration is unknown, and discordant cut-offs between laboratories pose a challenge for genetic counselling. Accurate and large-scale measurement of repeat expansions has been severely hindered by technical difficulties in sizing long expansions and by variable repeat lengths across and within tissues. Novel long-read sequencing approaches have produced promising results and open up avenues to further investigate this enthralling repeat expansion, elucidating whether its length, purity, and methylation pattern might modulate clinical features of C9orf72-related diseases.
Low performance of internal medicine senior residents in in-service examinations
Authors: Ali Syed Ahsan , Riaz Qamar , Mushtaq Zain Muhammad , Awan Safia , Tariq Muhammad
Published: January 2021

We observed an unprecedented and consistent low performance of senior residents as compared with juniors in monthly examinations. This compelled us to evaluate systematically and compare the scores of senior residents with their junior colleagues. This retrospective observational study was conducted in April 2020 among internal medicine residents. Residents in first and second year of their training were labelled as junior residents. Residents in third or fourth year of their training were labelled as senior residents. Comparison of mean scores of each resident level was done separately both for monthly formative multiple-choice questions tests, and summative yearly end of term examinations. We discussed the possible reasons as well. There were 67 residents in year 2018 and 69 in 2019. There is no significant difference between scores of monthly examinations of years 2018 and 2019 among residents of each level. Rather, in March and December 2018, junior residents perform better than senior residents with p values of 0.01 and 0.04, respectively. In February and September 2019, senior residents performed better than junior residents with p value of 0.02. Similarly, there is no significant difference in scores of residents of each level in end-of-term examinations of years 2018 and 2019 with p values 0.18 and 0.25, respectively. Performance of senior residents in our residency programme in in-service examinations is relatively low as compared with their junior colleagues. There is a need to evaluate reasons for this relatively low performance of senior residents.
Preoperative cognitive–behavioral therapy for reducing pain catastrophizing and improving pain outcomes after total knee replacement: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Buvanendran Asokumar , Sremac Amanda C , Merriman Patricia A , Della Valle Craig J , Burns John W , McCarthy Robert J
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT) can reduce preoperative pain catastrophizing and may improve postsurgical pain outcomes. We hypothesized that CBT would reduce pain catastrophizing more than no-CBT controls and result in improved pain outcomes.

Methods

The study was a randomized controlled trial of patients undergoing elective total knee arthroplasty between January 2013 and March 2020. In phase 1, the change in pain catastrophizing scores (PCS) among 4-week or 8-week telehealth, 4-week in person and no-CBT sessions was compared in 80 patients with a PCS >16. In phase 2, the proportion of subjects that achieved a 3-month decrease in Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) pain subscale >4 following 4-week telehealth CBT with no-CBT controls were compared in 80 subjects.

Results

In phase 1, 4-week telehealth CBT had the highest completion rate 17/20 (85%), demonstrated an adjusted median reduction in PCS of −9 (95% CI −1 to −14, p<0.01) compared with no-CBT and was non-inferior to 8-week telehealth CBT at a margin of 2 (p=0.02). In phase 2, 29 of 35 (83%) in the 4-week telehealth CBT and 26 of 33 (79%) subjects in the no-CBT demonstrated a decrease in the WOMAC pain subscale >4 at 3 months, difference 4% (95% CI −18% to 26%, p=0.48), despite a median decrease in the PCS for the 4-week CBT and no-CBT group of −6 (−10 to −2, p=0.02).

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that CBT interventions delivered prior to surgery in person or via telehealth can reduced PCS scores; however, this reduction did not lead to improved 3-month pain outcomes.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT 01772329, registration date 21 January 2013).
Sexual health interventions delivered to participants by mobile technology: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Berendes Sima , Gubijev Anasztazia , McCarthy Ona L , Palmer Melissa J , Wilson Emma , Free Caroline
Published: January 2021

Background

The use of mobile technologies to prevent STIs is recognised as a promising approach worldwide; however, evidence has been inconclusive, and the field has developed rapidly. With about 1 million new STIs a day globally, up-to-date evidence is urgently needed.

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of mobile health interventions delivered to participants for preventing STIs and promoting preventive behaviour.

Methods

We searched seven databases and reference lists of 49 related reviews (January 1990–February 2020) and contacted experts in the field. We included randomised controlled trials of mobile interventions delivered to adolescents and adults to prevent sexual transmission of STIs. We conducted meta-analyses and assessed risk of bias and certainty of evidence following Cochrane guidance.

Results

After double screening 6683 records, we included 22 trials into the systematic review and 20 into meta-analyses; 18 trials used text messages, 3 used smartphone applications and 1 used Facebook messages as delivery modes. The certainty of evidence regarding intervention effects on STI/HIV occurrence and adverse events was low or very low. There was moderate certainty of evidence that in the short/medium-term text messaging interventions had little or no effect on condom use (standardised mean differences (SMD) 0.02, 95% CI −0.09 to 0.14, nine trials), but increased STI/HIV testing (OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.41 to 2.36, seven trials), although not if the standard-of-care control already contained an active text messaging component (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.47, two trials). Smartphone application messages also increased STI/HIV testing (risk ratio 1.40, 95% CI 1.22 to 1.60, subgroup analysis, two trials). The effects on other outcomes or of social media or blended interventions is uncertain due to low or very low certainty evidence.

Conclusions

Text messaging interventions probably increase STI/HIV testing but not condom use in the short/medium term. Ongoing trials will report the effects on biological and other outcomes.
The impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on university students’ dietary intake, physical activity, and sedentary behaviour
Authors: Bertrand Leandy , Shaw Keely A. , Ko Jongbum , Deprez Dalton , Chilibeck Philip D. , Zello Gordon A.
Published: January 2021

University students are a vulnerable group for poor dietary intake, insufficient physical activity and sedentary behaviour. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on university students’ dietary intake, physical activity, and sedentary behaviour. Participants were students (n = 125) from the Universities of Saskatchewan and Regina. An online questionnaire was administered retrospectively (for prepandemic) and prospectively (during the pandemic) to examine students’ dietary intake, physical activity, and sedentary behaviour. Overall, nutrient and caloric intakes were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) during the pandemic, and alcohol intake increased (p = 0.03). Before the pandemic, 16% and 54% of the participants were meeting the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Adults (18–64 years) of 150 min of moderate−vigorous physical activity and 8 h or less of sedentary activity, respectively. Only 10% met the guidelines for physical activity while 30% met the guidelines for sedentary behaviour during the pandemic. The minutes per week spent engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity during the pandemic decreased by approximately 20% (p < 0.001). The hours spent in sedentary activities increased by 3 h per day (p < 0.001). Our findings confirm that during the pandemic, students’ inadequate dietary intake, high alcohol consumption, low physical activity, and high sedentary behaviour were significantly compounded.

Novelty: During COVID-19, the nutrient and caloric intakes of university students decreased, and alcohol intake increased significantly. University students’ physical activity levels decreased, and sedentary activity increased significantly during COVID-19. During COVID-19 students did not engage in sufficient physical activity to offset the increased sedentary behaviour.
Effects of oleuropein on rat’s atria and thoracic aorta: a study of antihypertensive mechanisms
Authors: Ilic Sonja , Stojiljkovic Nenad , Stojanovic Nikola , Stoiljkovic Milan , Mitic Katarina , Salinger-Martinovic Sonja , Randjelovic Pavle
Published: January 2021

Oleuropein (OLE) is the main bioactive ingredient in the leaves of the olive plant Olea europaea L. (Oleaceae), which has proven beneficial due to the antiinflammatory, antiatherogenic, anticancer, antimicrobial, and antiviral effects. This study aimed to investigate the antihypertensive and vasodilator potential of OLE by analyzing its acute effects on spontaneous atrial contractions and vasomotor responses of the isolated thoracic aorta in rats. We showed that the application of OLE induces negative chronotropic and inotropic effects on the heart. OLE also causes mild aortic vasodilation given that the maximal reduction in tension of intact aortic rings precontracted with phenylephrine was approximately 30%. This vasodilation is likely dependent on the nitric oxide released from the endothelium based on the effect obtained on denuded and phenylephrine precontracted aortic rings and responses reordered following vasoconstriction induced by high concentrations of K+and heparin. Our findings provide a basis for further testing of OLE cardiovascular effects, which may lead to subsequent clinical research for its application in the treatment of hypertension and heart disease.
Influence of the Activation Parameters on the Electrochemical Performance of Chemically Activated Graphene Materials
Authors: Quintero Martínez Yeixon , Herrera Penagos Sara Natalia , Zapata Zulamita , Arango Cárdenas Daniel Isidoro , Santamaría Ramírez Ricardo , González Zoraida , Cruz Riaño Luis
Published: January 2021

In this work, activated graphene-like materials were obtained by varying both the ratio of activated agent/graphene precursor and the activation temperature. The resulting materials were then characterized, resulting in higher values of specific surface area (SSA) when increasing the impregnation ratio at each temperature, reaching values up to 1325 m2 g−1.Gravimetric capacitances ranging between 11.0 and 49.0 F g−1 when charging/discharging at 0.5 A g-1 were obtained. The highest capacitance value was achieved not for samples with the highest SSA but with a micropore volume up to ~ 63% of total pore volume. Overall, the capacitance values decreased significantly at activation temperatures of 600 and 700°C at 2:1 and 4:1 impregnation ratios, regardless of an enhanced SSA, which could be explained considering the release of surface oxygenated functional groups during the thermal treatment. These results present the activated graphene materials as promising electrodes in energy storage devices.
The Potential of Pd/CX100 to Use as Anode in a Paper-Based Microfluidic Fuel Cell for the Oxidation of Crude Glycerol Samples
Authors: Carrera-Cerritos Raúl , Fuentes-Ramírez Rosalba , Olivares-Ramírez Juan Manuel , Amaya-Cruz Diana M , Dector Andrés , Galindo Erick , Galvan Francisco , Morales Jimmy
Published: January 2021

In this paper is reported the energy generated in a paper-based microfluidic fuel cell (paper-based mFC) using Pd/CX100 as anode and glycerol from three sources: reagent grade glycerol, crude glycerol from sunflower oil biodiesel, and crude glycerol from used cooking oil biodiesel, as fuels. TEM, SEM, XRD, XPS, and cyclic voltammetry were employed for the Pd/CX100 characterization. The paper-based mFC using Pd/CX100 as anode was evaluated employing 0.1 M and 0.5 M glycerol of each glycerol sample and achieving power densities of 0.242 and 0.160; 0.15 and 0.127; and 0.108 and 0.090 mW cm-2 for reagent grade glycerol, glycerol from sunflower oil biodiesel, and glycerol from used cooking oil biodiesel, respectively.
Effect of Operating Conditions on the Treatment of Cr (VI) Containing Wastewater by Electrocoagulation with Aluminum and Stainless Steel Electrodes
Authors: Emiliani Brigith Marcela , Ariza Yulaid del Carmen , Quiñones Diego Hernan , Plaza Jairo
Published: January 2021

This work is aimed to evaluate the influence of operating conditions on the removal of Cr (VI) from wastewater by the application of electrocoagulation. For this, a bench-scale electrocoagulation reactor provided with aluminum stainless steel electrodes was built and used in the treatment of chromium-containing synthetic wastewater in a range of 10–50 mg/L. According to our results, the use of stainless steel electrodes placed with a gap separation of 1.0–2.0 cm, initial pH of 8.5, and 30 V electric potential led to the best results. Additionally, by a simplified operating costs estimation it was found that from 7.04 to 8.13 USD/m3 are required to reach complete removal of Cr (VI).
Inorganic nitrate supplementation attenuates conduit artery retrograde and oscillatory shear in older adults
Authors: Casey Darren P. , Bock Joshua M.
Published: January 2021

We report for the first time, to our knowledge, that 4 wk of inorganic nitrate supplementation attenuates retrograde and oscillatory shear in the brachial artery of older adults. However, this was not associated with greater hyperemic or vasodilatory responses to exercise. In sum, these data highlight favorable changes in shear patterns with aging, which may reduce the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Elucidation of the Genomic‐Epigenomic Interaction Landscape of Aggressive Prostate Cancer
Authors: Kumar Mamidi Tarun Karthik , Wu Jiande , Hicks Chindo
Published: January 2021

Background. Majority of prostate cancer (PCa) deaths are attributed to localized high‐grade aggressive tumours which progress rapidly to metastatic disease. A critical unmet need in clinical management of PCa is discovery and characterization of the molecular drivers of aggressive tumours. The development and progression of aggressive PCa involve genetic and epigenetic alterations occurring in the germline, somatic (tumour), and epigenomes. To date, interactions between genes containing germline, somatic, and epigenetic mutations in aggressive PCa have not been characterized. The objective of this investigation was to elucidate the genomic‐epigenomic interaction landscape in aggressive PCa to identify potential drivers aggressive PCa and the pathways they control. We hypothesized that aggressive PCa originates from a complex interplay between genomic (both germline and somatic mutations) and epigenomic alterations. We further hypothesized that these complex arrays of interacting genomic and epigenomic factors affect gene expression, molecular networks, and signaling pathways which in turn drive aggressive PCa. Methods. We addressed these hypotheses by performing integrative data analysis combining information on germline mutations from genome‐wide association studies with somatic and epigenetic mutations from The Cancer Genome Atlas using gene expression as the intermediate phenotype. Results. The investigation revealed signatures of genes containing germline, somatic, and epigenetic mutations associated with aggressive PCa. Aberrant DNA methylation had effect on gene expression. In addition, the investigation revealed molecular networks and signalling pathways enriched for germline, somatic, and epigenetic mutations including the STAT3, PTEN, PCa, ATM, AR, and P53 signalling pathways implicated in aggressive PCa. Conclusions. The study demonstrated that integrative analysis combining diverse omics data is a powerful approach for the discovery of potential clinically actionable biomarkers, therapeutic targets, and elucidation of oncogenic interactions between genomic and epigenomic alterations in aggressive PCa.
The Maschke-Type Theorem and Morita Context for BiHom-Smash Products
Authors: Shen Bingliang , Liu Ling
Published: January 2021

Let

H
,

α

H

,

β

H

,

ω

H

,

ψ

H

,

S

H

be a BiHom-Hopf algebra and

A
,

α

A

,

β

A

be an

H
,

α

H

,

β

H

-module BiHom-algebra. Then, in this paper, we study some properties on the BiHom-smash product

A
#
H

. We construct the Maschke-type theorem for the BiHom-smash product

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Activation of Opioid Receptors Attenuates Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Skeletal Muscle Induced by Tourniquet Placement
Authors: Guo Yue-Xian , Wang Gui-Ying , Cheng Wen-jie , Yan Cai-Zhen , Zhao Shuang , Li Zhao , Liu Peng , Wang Xiu-Li
Published: January 2021

Background and Objectives. Tourniquet-induced ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a common clinical problem for patients receiving surgery. The objective of this study is to determine if oxycodone (Oxy) reduces skeletal muscle I/R damage induced by tourniquet placement and explores the underlying mechanisms. Method. Mice were randomly assigned to the sham, I/R, Oxy, and I/R with Oxy groups. Oxy was injected intraperitoneally 30 min before tourniquet placement. Morphological changes of the gastrocnemius muscle in these mice were assessed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and electron microscopy. Expression levels of TLR4, NF-κB, SIRT1, and PGC-1α in the skeletal muscles were detected by western blot. Blood TNF-α levels, gastrocnemius muscle contractile force, and ATP concentration were examined. Results. Compared with the I/R group, Oxy pretreatment attenuated skeletal muscle damage, decreased serum TNF-α levels, and inhibited the expression levels of TLR4/NF-κB in the gastrocnemius muscle. Furthermore, Oxy treatment significantly increased serum ATP levels and the contractility of the skeletal muscles. SIRT1 and PGC-1α levels were significantly reduced in gastrocnemius muscle after I/R. Oxy pretreatment recovered these protein expression levels. Conclusion. Tourniquet-induced acute limb I/R results in morphological and functional impairment in skeletal muscle. Pretreatment with Oxy attenuates skeletal muscle from acute I/R injury through inhibition of TLR4/NF-κB-dependent inflammatory response and protects SIRT1/PGC-1α-dependent mitochondrial function.
Estimation Accuracy of Root Canal Curvatures from Different Dental Diagnostic Imaging Techniques: An In Vitro Experimental Study
Authors: Faraj Bestoon Mohammed
Published: January 2021

In clinical endodontics, preoperative estimation of root canal curvature is crucial regarding the prevention of iatrogenic errors. Reproduction of the two‐dimensional radiographic images causes certain proximal view curvatures not seen. Therefore, the present study is aimed at investigating the degree of root canal curvature identified in different radiographic views. A total of 60 human permanent single‐rooted teeth with varying degrees of curvature were selected. The root canal curvature for each tooth was measured on cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) images (clinical view), standard digital periapical view (0° angle), digital periapical horizontal parallax view (30° angle), and digital periapical proximal view (0° angle), by using the Schneider method. No statistically significant difference was found in the degree of curvatures estimated on CBCT images and standard digital periapical view (0° angle) in the same tooth. The results revealed a significant difference between the proximal view and the other three groups (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in this respect between the horizontal parallax view (30° angle), clinical view (CBCT images), and standard digital periapical view (p > 0.05). Proximal view curvatures cannot be predicted or estimated only from examining a clinical view radiograph. A horizontal parallax view (30° angle) is highly recommended as specific guidelines on how to estimate root canal curvature in case difficulty assessment protocols.
Oral Administration of Germinated, Pigmented, Giant Embryo Rice (Oryza sativa L. cv. Keunnunjami) Extract Improves the Lipid and Glucose Metabolisms in High‐Fat Diet‐Fed Mice
Authors: Chung Soo Im , Kang Mi Young
Published: January 2021

Obesity is a significant risk factor for chronic diseases. The effect of ethanol extract from germinated Keunnunjami, blackish‐purple rice with a giant embryo, compare to ordinary brown rice, on the body weight and lipid and glucose metabolism in high‐fat diet‐fed mice was analyzed. Mice were fed with a high‐fat diet‐fed for 3 weeks and then orally administered with either distilled water (HF) or extract (0.25%, w/w) from brown, germinated brown, Keunnunjami, and germinated Keunnunjami rice for 4 weeks. Control mice were fed with a normal diet and orally administered with distilled water. The HF group showed markedly higher body weight and triglyceride, cholesterol, fatty acid, glucose, and insulin levels than the control group. However, the oral administration of rice extracts ameliorated this high‐fat diet‐induced obesity, hyperlipidemia, and hypoglycemia through the modulation of adipokine production, lipogenic and glucose‐regulating enzyme activities, and mRNA expression of genes associated with lipid and glucose metabolism. The germinated Keunnunjami extract exhibited greater hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, and body weight‐lowering effects than the other rice extracts. The results demonstrated that germination could further enhance the physiological properties of rice and that germinated Keunnunjami extract has a strong therapeutic potential against high‐fat diet‐induced obesity, hyperlipidemia, and hyperglycemia.
Advances in Female Germ Cell Induction from Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Gulimiheranmu Maisumu , Wang Xinjie , Zhou Junmei
Published: January 2021

Germ cells are capable of maintaining species continuity through passing genetic and epigenetic information across generations. Female germ cells mainly develop during the embryonic stage and pass through subsequent developmental stages including primordial germ cells, oogonia, and oocyte. However, due to the limitation of using early human embryos as in vivo research model, in vitro research models are needed to reveal the early developmental process and related mechanisms of female germ cells. After birth, the number of follicles gradually decreases with age. Various conditions which damage ovarian functions would cause premature ovarian failure. Alternative treatments to solve these problems need to be investigated. Germ cell differentiation from pluripotent stem cells in vitro can simulate early embryonic development of female germ cells and clarify unresolved issues during the development process. In addition, pluripotent stem cells could potentially provide promising applications for female fertility preservation after proper in vitro differentiation. Mouse female germ cells have been successfully reconstructed in vitro and delivered to live offspring. However, the derivation of functional human female germ cells has not been fully achieved due to technical limitations and ethical issues. To provide an updated and comprehensive information, this review centers on the major studies on the differentiation of mouse and human female germ cells from pluripotent stem cells and provides references to further studies of developmental mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications of female germ cells.
Development of Microsatellite Marker System to Determine the Genetic Diversity of Experimental Chicken, Duck, Goose, and Pigeon Populations
Authors: Zhang Xiulin , He Yang , Zhang Wei , Wang Yining , Liu Xinmeng , Cui Aique , Gong Yidi , Lu Jing , Liu Xin , Huo Xueyun , Lv Jianyi , Guo Meng , Du Xiaoyan , Han Lingxia , Chen Hongyan , Chen Jilan , Li Changlong , Chen Zhenwen
Published: January 2021

Poultries including chickens, ducks, geese, and pigeons are widely used in the biological and medical research in many aspects. The genetic quality of experimental poultries directly affects the results of the research. In this study, following electrophoresis analysis and short tandem repeat (STR) scanning, we screened out the microsatellite loci for determining the genetic characteristics of Chinese experimental chickens, ducks, geese, and pigeons. The panels of loci selected in our research provide a good choice for genetic monitoring of the population genetic diversity of Chinese native experimental chickens, ducks, geese, and ducks.
Haemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis in an Elderly Patient after Recent Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Burke Eoghan , Harkins Patricia , Kieran Jennifer
Published: January 2021

Introduction. The underlying pathophysiology of haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is characterised by excessive inflammation and tissue destruction secondary to abnormal immune activation. The term primary HLH refers to a genetic abnormality that predisposes to the condition whereas secondary refers to HLH being triggered by an underlying condition such as infection (often Epstein Barr Virus), autoimmune, or neoplastic disease. Its variable clinical presentation poses an obstacle to prompt diagnosis in the elderly patient. Case. A 70-year-old Caucasian man was admitted to hospital from a convalescence center with symptoms of fatigue, fever, decreased oral intake, and increasing shortness of breath on exertion. The patient was three weeks after coronary artery bypass grafting. Over the next two weeks, the patient continued to deteriorate both clinically and biochemically. The patient met criteria for haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, likely driven by EBV infection. Bone marrow biopsy supported the diagnosis with evidence of active phagocytosis. The patient was commenced on high-dose dexamethasone and reviewed by haematology with further molecular testing confirming the diagnosis. Discussion. LH is becoming more common in older patients. We propose that new guidelines be developed to aid its prompt diagnosis in this age group.