bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on Natural Convection in Horizontal Parallel Plate Channels Heated on Upper Wall and Partially Filled With Metal Foam
Authors: Buonomo Bernardo , Fardella Vincenzo , Manca Oronzio , Nardini Sergio , Pragliola Salvatore
Published: February 2021

In this work, a numerical investigation on two-dimensional steady state natural convection in a horizontal channel partially filled with a porous medium and heated at uniform heat flux from above is carried out. The lower plate is adiabatic. The porous medium is modeled using the Brinkman–Forchheimer-extended Darcy model and the local thermal equilibrium (LTE) hypothesis is assumed. The structure of the porous medium is homogenous and isotropic, the thermophysical properties of the air and the porous medium are temperature independent and the fluid flow is laminar and incompressible. The aluminum foam has 10, 20 and 40 pore per inches (PPI) and its porosity ranges from 0.90 and 0.95. Rayleigh number values are examined, from 6.0 × 104 and 1.2 × 107. Results are presented in terms of velocity and temperature fields, temperature and velocity profiles at different significant sections are shown, to obtain a description of the natural convection inside the open-ended cavity. Finally, Average Nusselt number values are evaluated. The horizontal open cavity partially filled with metal foam presents improved heat transfer behavior for higher Rayleigh numbers. The enhancement depends on the porosity and pore density. The average Nusselt number for the partially filled open cavity is the double of the configuration without the foam, clear configuration, for the highest considered Rayleigh number.
Effects of Tire Attributes on Aerodynamic Performance
Authors: Fu Gen , Untaroiu Alexandrina
Published: February 2021

As indicated by previous studies, many attributes of tires have been shown to have an impact on tire aerodynamic drag. However, the way these attributes affect tire aerodynamics has not been systematically investigated to date. It is not clear which tire attributes have the most significant impact on aerodynamic drag. Therefore, a sensitivity study of the effects of tire attributes on tire aerodynamic performance is proposed in this study. This sensitivity study improves the understanding of flow structures and mechanisms around tires.

First, a baseline CFD model of a tire is created and validated by experimental data. In the computational model, the tire is positioned in a wind tunnel to match the experimental testing configuration. A hybrid boundary condition method is used to simulate a rotating tire. Based on the validated baseline model, various tire attributes are considered and compared in the study proposed. The tire attributes considered include tire width, tire side wall profile, lateral grooves, and open rim design. There are five cases in total for the sensitivity study. Then the effects of these attributes on the tire aerodynamic drag are calculated and compared. The most influencing feature is then identified. The results show that a smoothed side wall profile with smaller radius can improve the aerodynamic performance of an isolated tire. On the other hand, the influence of lateral grooves on tire aerodynamic performance is limited. The force integrated from all lateral groove surfaces only account to less than 2% of the total tire drag force. Additionally, an idealized open rim design changes the flow structure significantly, which leads to the increase of aerodynamic drag. The force integrated on the rim surface account for up to 20% of the overall tire drag force.
Standards for Evaluating the Influence of Materials on the Performance of X-Ray Computed Tomography in Measuring Geometric Variability
Authors: Shakarji Craig M. , Srinivasan Vijay , Lee Vincent D. , Shilling Meghan , Muralikrishnan Bala
Published: February 2021

The industrial use of X-ray Computed Tomography (known briefly as XCT, or sometimes simply as CT) is on the rise because a single XCT scan can measure an arbitrary number of features, and XCT instruments can measure features inaccessible to contact or optical instruments — even features that are completely encased in material. This makes XCT a natural metrological companion to additive manufacturing where internal features (e.g., lattice structures) can be produced. But this advantage of being able to measure through material is somewhat mitigated by the fact that the obstructing material has a strong influence on the geometric measurement and is a dominant source of error. This problem is addressed by two emerging documentary standards in ASME and ISO (International Organization for Standardization). These documents define standardized tests for metrological accuracies of an XCT system, where accuracies — now unambiguously defined — can be expressed as Maximum Permissible Errors (MPEs). These tests rely on calibrated artifacts that are designed to reveal various XCT error sources when the system measures these artifacts in prescribed manners. This paper gives the general philosophy behind Coordinate Measuring System standards and then applies them to XCT systems in particular. Rationale is given for the artifact choices contained within these standards, with particular emphasis on material effects, and clarifies the metrological coverage of these standards.
Computational Design Method to Control Touch Feeling of Mattress With Geometric Surface-Shape
Authors: Nishio Ken , Sakuma Atsushi
Published: February 2021

Foam material is one of the ingredients that are frequently used for controlling of touch feeling on the contacting part of various products like bed mattresses. For better sleep, it is necessary to design to control the touch feeling of the mattresses. Touch feeling depends on various properties of the foam material, and the shape characteristics of the contact part also give humans various and complicated feelings. According to previous studies, it was possible to easily quantify the physical properties of foam materials by using indentation test. Furthermore, it is necessary to analyze the change in touch feeling due to the shape of contact part of foams for better mattress design.

Therefore, in this report, the purpose is to analyze the contact problem including the material property and the shape property of the foam material. A new softness parameter was created by analyzing the contact problem using FEM analysis. Specifically, it is report a design technology based on multiple parameters of tactile sensation that change depending on the shape of the contact part of the foam material.
Design an Augmentation Exoskeleton to Enhance Lifting Strength
Authors: Liu Yilang , Chen Yuhao , Li Hongyi , Dong Janet
Published: February 2021

This paper describes the process of a team of mechanical engineering students in designing and simulating an easy to wear augmentation exoskeleton device. The goal of the project is to develop a fundamental technology associate with the design and control of an upper-body exoskeleton that augments human arm strength and endurance during lifting motion. The technology is intended to be used by military soldiers who are required to frequently lift more than 100 pounds objects, such as heavy machinery, tank ammunition, etc.

This proof of concept design focuses on using a wearable device to provide and support both arms with considerable strength to lift more than 100 pounds objects. Some of the features of this upper body exoskeleton include easy to wear, light weight, portable, sturdy, and easy to control. The exoskeleton device mainly consists of two sections: wearable body vest and EMG sensors and Arduino control system.

This paper also discussed the range of basic motion of the arms, how the wearable exoskeleton device is developed, and how the performance and efficiency of such device are evaluated.
How Many Valid Days Are Necessary to Assess Physical Activity Data From Accelerometry During Pregnancy?
Authors: da Silva Danilo Fernandes , Mohammad Shuhiba , Nagpal Taniya Singh , Souza Sara Carolina Scremin , Colley Rachel C. , Adamo Kristi Bree
Published: February 2021

Background: The authors examined whether or not ≤3 days wearing Actical® accelerometers provided acceptable results in comparison with the recommendation of ≥4 days in women across gestation. Methods: A total of 26, 76, and 57 participants at early, mid, and late pregnancy, respectively, were assessed. Participants were instructed to wear the device for 7 days and women who wore it for ≥4 days were included. For each participant, 3, 2, and 1 day(s) were randomly selected. Paired comparisons, intraclass correlations coefficients, and kappa statistics were performed for ≥4 days (criterion) versus 3, 2, and 1 day(s). Averages (in minutes per day) of sedentary time, light, moderate, vigorous, moderate to vigorous physical activity (PA) and steps per day were examined. Results: When 3 valid days were compared with the criterion, no significant differences were found for any gestational period. The intraclass correlations coefficients were “high” for all PA-related variables. The k values varied from .819 to .838 across pregnancy (“strong”). Two and 1 valid day(s) versus the criterion showed significant differences in some PA intensities, reduced intraclass correlations coefficients, “moderate” k values for 2 valid days (.638–.788) and “minimal-to-moderate” k values for 1 valid day (.367–.755). Conclusion: In pregnant women during early, mid, and late pregnancy, PA data obtained from 3 valid days of wear was equivalent and agreed with ≥4 valid days.
Critical Pause: Athletes’ Stories of Lockdown During COVID-19
Authors: Whitcomb-Khan Gabriella , Wadsworth Nick , McGinty-Minister Kristin , Bicker Stewart , Swettenham Laura , Tod David
Published: February 2021

This study explored the experiences of elite athletes during the initial stages of lockdown as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The eight recruited participants (three females, five males) were asked to tell a story of their lockdown experience. Narrative analysis was used to explore the athletes’ stories. The athletes’ narrative is best represented in four distinct sections: (a) threat to goals, (b) ongoing consequences, (c) overcoming COVID-19, and (d) adapting to COVID-19. Four narrative themes were also coconstructed from the athletes’ stories: (a) factors athletes found challenging, (b) loss, (c) strategies that benefitted athletes psychologically, and (d) silver linings. Combined, these findings suggest that the initial stages of lockdown are best described as acritical pause. The authors present applied implications for athletes and sport psychology practitioners. The authors also recommend that future research investigate the longitudinal effect of prolonged lockdown on athletes’ lives and a potential return to sport.
Ligand-independent activity of the ghrelin receptor modulates AMPA receptor trafficking and supports memory formation
Authors: Ribeiro Luís F. , Catarino Tatiana , Carvalho Mário , Cortes Luísa , Santos Sandra D. , Opazo Patricio O. , Ribeiro Lyn Rosenbrier , Oliveiros Bárbara , Choquet Daniel , Esteban José A. , Peça João , Carvalho Ana Luísa
Published: February 2021

Blocking the constitutive activity of the ghrelin receptor impairs spatial and recognition memory.
Molecular Evolution of Human Coronavirus 229E in Hong Kong and a Fatal COVID-19 Case Involving Coinfection with a Novel Human Coronavirus 229E Genogroup
Authors: Lau Susanna K. P. , Lung David C. , Wong Emily Y. M. , Aw-Yong Kam Leng , Wong Antonio C. P. , Luk Hayes K. H. , Li Kenneth S. M. , Fung Joshua , Chan Tony T. Y. , Tang James Y. M. , Zhu Longchao , Yip Cyril C. Y. , Wong Sally C. Y. , Lee Rodney A. , Tsang Owen T. Y. , Yuen Kwok-Yung , Woo Patrick C. Y.
Published: February 2021

Since its first appearance in the 1960s, the genetic diversity and evolution of human coronavirus 229E (HCoV-229E) have been relatively understudied. In this study, we report a fatal case of COVID-19 coinfected with HCoV-229E in Hong Kong.
APEX2 Proximity Proteomics Resolves Flagellum Subdomains and Identifies Flagellum Tip-Specific Proteins in Trypanosoma brucei
Authors: Vélez-Ramírez Daniel E. , Shimogawa Michelle M. , Ray Sunayan S. , Lopez Andrew , Rayatpisheh Shima , Langousis Gerasimos , Gallagher-Jones Marcus , Dean Samuel , Wohlschlegel James A. , Hill Kent L.
Published: February 2021

Sleeping sickness is a neglected tropical disease caused by the protozoan parasite
Trypanosoma brucei
. The disease disrupts the sleep-wake cycle, leading to coma and death if left untreated.
T. brucei
motility, transmission, and virulence depend on its flagellum (cilium), which consists of several different specialized subdomains.
Aspergillus fumigatus Strain-Specific Conidia Lung Persistence Causes an Allergic Broncho-Pulmonary Aspergillosis-Like Disease Phenotype
Authors: Jones Jane T. , Liu Ko-Wei , Wang Xi , Kowalski Caitlin H. , Ross Brandon S. , Mills Kathleen A. M. , Kerkaert Joshua D. , Hohl Tobias M. , Lofgren Lotus A. , Stajich Jason E. , Obar Joshua J. , Cramer Robert A.
Published: February 2021

Allergic broncho-pulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) patients often present with long-term colonization ofAspergillus fumigatus. Current understanding of ABPA pathogenesis has been complicated by a lack of long-termin vivofungal persistence models.
Use of SNP chips to detect rare pathogenic variants: retrospective, population based diagnostic evaluation
Authors: MN Weedon , L Jackson , JW Harrison , KS Ruth , J Tyrrell , AT Hattersley , CF Wright
Published: February 2021

Objective

To determine whether the sensitivity and specificity of SNP chips are adequate for detecting rare pathogenic variants in a clinically unselected population.

Design

Retrospective, population based diagnostic evaluation.

Participants

49 908 people recruited to the UK Biobank with SNP chip and next generation sequencing data, and an additional 21 people who purchased consumer genetic tests and shared their data online via the Personal Genome Project.

Main outcome measures

Genotyping (that is, identification of the correct DNA base at a specific genomic location) using SNP chips versus sequencing, with results split by frequency of that genotype in the population. Rare pathogenic variants in theBRCA1andBRCA2genes were selected as an exemplar for detailed analysis of clinically actionable variants in the UK Biobank, and BRCA related cancers (breast, ovarian, prostate, and pancreatic) were assessed in participants through use of cancer registry data.

Results

Overall, genotyping using SNP chips performed well compared with sequencing; sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were all above 99% for 108 574 common variants directly genotyped on the SNP chips and sequenced in the UK Biobank. However, the likelihood of a true positive result decreased dramatically with decreasing variant frequency; for variants that are very rare in the population, with a frequency below 0.001% in UK Biobank, the positive predictive value was very low and only 16% of 4757 heterozygous genotypes from the SNP chips were confirmed with sequencing data. Results were similar for SNP chip data from the Personal Genome Project, and 20/21 individuals analysed had at least one false positive rare pathogenic variant that had been incorrectly genotyped. For pathogenic variants in theBRCA1andBRCA2genes, which are individually very rare, the overall performance metrics for the SNP chips versus sequencing in the UK Biobank were: sensitivity 34.6%, specificity 98.3%, positive predictive value 4.2%, and negative predictive value 99.9%. Rates of BRCA related cancers in UK Biobank participants with a positive SNP chip result were similar to those for age matched controls (odds ratio 1.31, 95% confidence interval 0.99 to 1.71) because the vast majority of variants were false positives, whereas sequence positive participants had a significantly increased risk (odds ratio 4.05, 2.72 to 6.03).

Conclusions

SNP chips are extremely unreliable for genotyping very rare pathogenic variants and should not be used to guide health decisions without validation.
Comparing the effects of tofogliflozin and pioglitazone in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (ToPiND study): a randomized prospective open-label controlled trial
Authors: Yoneda Masato , Honda Yasushi , Ogawa Yuji , Kessoku Takaomi , Kobayashi Takashi , Imajo Kento , Ozaki Anna , Nogami Asako , Taguri Masataka , Yamanaka Takeharu , Kirikoshi Hiroyuki , Iwasaki Tomoyuki , Kurihashi Takeo , Saito Satoru , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The treatment of diabetes has a significant impact on the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We compared the effectiveness of tofogliflozin, a selective sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor, and pioglitazone for the treatment of NAFLD patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Research design and methods

This open-label, prospective, single-center, randomized clinical trial recruited NAFLD patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and a hepatic fat fraction of at least 10% as assessed based on the MRI-proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF). Eligible patients were stratified according to hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), alanine transaminase, and MRI-PDFF levels and randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either 20 mg tofogliflozin or 15–30 mg pioglitazone, orally, once daily for 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was an absolute change in MRI-PDFF at 24 weeks. Efficacy and safety was assessed in all treated patients. This trial was registered in the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials.

Results

Overall, 40 eligible patients were randomly assigned to receive tofogliflozin (n=21) or pioglitazone (n=19). Changes in hepatic steatosis after 24 weeks of treatment were evaluated by MRI-PDFF, which showed a significant decrease in both groups (−7.54% (p<0.0001) and −4.12% (p=0.0042) in the pioglitazone and tofogliflozin groups, respectively). Compared with baseline, the body weight decreased by 2.83±2.86 kg (−3.6%, p=0.0443) in the tofogliflozin group and increased by 1.39±2.62 kg (1.7%, p=0.0002) in the pioglitazone group after 24 weeks. No life-threatening events or treatment-related deaths occurred.

Conclusions

Tofogliflozin was well tolerated, and it reduced the MRI-PDFF levels in NAFLD patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Trial registration number

jRCTs031180159.
Modelling the impact of rapid diagnostic tests onPlasmodium vivaxmalaria in South Korea: a cost–benefit analysis
Authors: Kim Jung Ho , Suh Jiyeon , Lee Woon Ji , Choi Heun , Kim Jong-Dae , Kim Changsoo , Choi Jun Yong , Ko Ryeojin , Kim Heewon , Lee Jeehyun , Yeom Joon Sup
Published: February 2021

Background

Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are widely used for diagnosingPlasmodium vivaxmalaria, especially in resource-limited countries. However, the impact of RDTs onP. vivaxmalaria incidence and national medical costs has not been evaluated. We assessed the impact of RDT implementation onP. vivaxmalaria incidence and overall medical expenditures in South Korea and performed a cost–benefit analysis from the payer’s perspective.

Methods

We developed a dynamic compartmental model forP. vivaxmalaria transmission in South Korea using delay differential equations. Long latency and seasonality were incorporated into the model, which was calibrated to civilian malaria incidences during 2014–2018. We then estimated averted malaria cases and total medical costs from two diagnostic scenarios: microscopy only and both microscopy and RDTs. Medical costs were extracted based on data from a hospital in an at-risk area forP. vivaxmalaria and were validated using Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service data. We conducted a cost–benefit analysis of RDTs using the incremental benefit:cost ratio (IBCR) considering only medical costs and performed a probabilistic sensitivity analysis to reflect the uncertainties of model parameters, costs and benefits.

Results

The results showed that 55.3% of newP. vivaxmalaria cases were averted, and $696 214 in medical costs was saved over 10 years after RDT introduction. The estimated IBCR was 2.5, indicating that RDT implementation was beneficial, compared with microscopy alone. The IBCR was sensitive to the diagnosis time reduction, infectious period and short latency period, and provided beneficial results in a benefit over $10.6 or RDT cost under $39.7.

Conclusions

The model simulation suggested that RDTs could significantly reduceP. vivaxmalaria incidence and medical costs. Moreover, cost–benefit analysis demonstrated that the introduction of RDTs was beneficial over microscopy alone. These results support the need for widespread adoption of RDTs.
Effect of overweight/obesity on caesarean section occurrence among reproductive-aged women in Ethiopia: a secondary data analysis
Authors: Endalifer Melese Linger , Diress Gedefaw , Almaw Hunegnaw , Endalifer Bedilu Linger
Published: February 2021

Background

The burden of overweight/obesity increased worldwide and it has unpredictable effect on maternal morbidity and mortality. Different adverse perinatal outcomes observed in overweight/obese women, of those caesarean section occurred frequently. In Ethiopia, the national caesarean section and overweight/obesity rate among reproductive-aged women increased tremendously. Therefore, we intend to assess the association between overweight/obesity with caesarean section in Ethiopia.

Method

The data were extracted from the 2016 Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey in nine regions and two city administrations. A stratified two-stage random sampling design was used to collect data. The exposure variable was overweight/obesity, and the outcome variable was a caesarean section. The final analytical sample consisted of 6928 participants. SPSS V.23 was used to analyse the data. Descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation were performed to describe the study variables. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were regressed.

Results

The prevalence of caesarean section among women aged between 15–49 years old who gave birth in the last 5 years was 245 (3.54%). The occurrence of caesarean section among overweight/obese women was 2.05 higher as compared with normal-weight women (AOR: 2.05, 95% CI: 1.09 - 3.83).

Conclusion and recommendation

Promoting weight reduction programmes throughout the country would have a greater contribution to reduce caesarean section rate and health cost, and to improve the health of the mother.
Weight loss, hypertension and mental well-being improvements during COVID-19 with a multicomponent health promotion programme on Zoom: a service evaluation in primary care
Authors: Walker Louise , Smith Natalie , Delon Christine
Published: February 2021

Background

Obesity is a risk factor for complications from SARS-CoV-2 infection, increasing the need for effective weight management measures in primary care. However, in the UK, COVID-19 restrictions have hampered primary care weight management referral and delivery, and COVID-19 related weight gain has been reported. The present study evaluated outcomes from a multicomponent weight loss and health promotion programme in UK primary care, delivered remotely due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Method

Patients with obesity, type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes attended six 90 min sessions over 10 weeks on Zoom. The dietary component comprised a low-carbohydrate ‘real food’ approach, augmented with education on physical activity, intermittent fasting, gut health, stress management, sleep and behaviour change. Anthropometric and cardiometabolic data were self-reported. Mental well-being was assessed with the Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale. Subjective outcomes and participant feedback about the programme were collected with an anonymous online survey.

Results

Twenty participants completed the programme. Weight loss and improvements in body mass index, waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and mental well-being achieved statistical and clinical significance. Mean weight loss (5.8 kg) represented a 6.5% weight loss. Participants’ subjective outcomes included weight loss without hunger (67%) and increased confidence in their ability to improve health (83%). All participants reported the usage of Zoom to access the programme as acceptable with 83% reporting it worked well.

Conclusion

A multicomponent weight loss and health promotion programme with a low-carbohydrate dietary component, clinically and statistically significantly improved health outcomes including weight status, blood pressure and mental well-being in a group of primary care patients when delivered remotely. Further research is warranted.
Association of musculoskeletal pain in other body parts with new-onset shoulder pain: a longitudinal study among survivors of the Great East Japan Earthquake
Authors: Hagiwara Yoshihiro , Yabe Yutaka , Sekiguchi Takuya , Sugawara Yumi , Tsuchiya Masahiro , Yoshida Shinichirou , Onoki Takahiro , Takahashi Tadahisa , Iwatsu Jun , Tsuji Ichiro , Itoi Eiji
Published: February 2021

Objective

Shoulder pain is a common health problem coexisting with other musculoskeletal pain. However, the effects of pre-existing musculoskeletal pain on the development of shoulder pain are not clear. The present study aimed to elucidate the association between coexisting musculoskeletal pain at other body sites and new-onset shoulder pain among survivors of the Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE).

Design

This is a longitudinal study.

Setting

The study was conducted at the severely damaged coastal areas in Ishinomaki and Sendai cities.

Participants

The survivors who did not have shoulder pain at 3 years after the GEJE were followed up 1 year later (n=2131).

Interventions

Musculoskeletal pain (low back, hand and/or foot, knee, shoulder and neck pain) was assessed using self-reported questionnaires.

Main outcome measures

The outcome of interest was new-onset shoulder pain, which was defined as shoulder pain absent at 3 years but present at 4 years after the disaster. The main predictive factor for new-onset shoulder pain was musculoskeletal pain in other body parts at 3 years after the GEJE; this was categorised according to the number of pain sites (0, 1, ≥2). Multiple regression analyses were conducted to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for new-onset shoulder pain due to musculoskeletal pain in other body parts.

Results

The incidence of new-onset shoulder pain was 6.7% (143/2131). Musculoskeletal pain in other body parts was significantly associated with new-onset shoulder pain. Using the survivors without other musculoskeletal pain as reference, the adjusted OR and 95% CI for new-onset shoulder pain were 1.86 (1.18 to 2.94) for those with one body part and 3.22 (2.08 to 4.98) for those with ≥2 body parts presenting with musculoskeletal pain (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Pre-existing musculoskeletal pain in other body parts was significantly associated with new-onset shoulder pain among survivors; this provides useful information for clinical and public health policies.
Cognitive decline in patients with prostate cancer: study protocol of a prospective cohort, NEON-PC
Authors: Araujo Natalia , Morais Samantha , Costa Ana Rute , Braga Raquel , Carneiro Ana Filipa , Cruz Vitor Tedim , Ruano Luis , Oliveira Jorge , Figueiredo Luis Pacheco , Pereira Susana , Lunet Nuno
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Prostate cancer is the most prevalent oncological disease among men in industrialised countries. Despite the high survival rates, treatments are often associated with adverse effects, including metabolic and cardiovascular complications, sexual dysfunction and, to a lesser extent, cognitive decline. This study was primarily designed to evaluate the trajectories of cognitive performance in patients with prostate cancer, and to quantify the impact of the disease and its treatments on the occurrence of cognitive decline.

Methods

Participants will be recruited from two main hospitals providing care to approximately half of the patients with prostate cancer in Northern Portugal (Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto and São João Hospital Centre), and will comprise a cohort of recently diagnosed patients with prostate cancer proposed for different treatment plans, including: (1) radical prostatectomy; (2) brachytherapy and/or radiotherapy; (3) radiotherapy in combination with androgen deprivation therapy and (4) androgen deprivation therapy (with or without chemotherapy). Recruitment began in February 2018 and is expected to continue until the first semester of 2021. Follow-up evaluations will be conducted at 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10 years. Sociodemographic, behavioural and clinical characteristics, anxiety and depression, health literacy, health status, quality of life, and sleep quality will be assessed. Blood pressure and anthropometrics will be measured, and a fasting blood sample will be collected. Participants’ cognitive performance will be evaluated before treatments and throughout follow-up (Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Cube Test as well as Brain on Track for remote monitoring). All participants suspected of cognitive impairment will undergo neuropsychological tests and clinical observation by a neurologist.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the hospitals involved. All participants will provide written informed consent, and study procedures will be developed to ensure data protection and confidentiality. Results will be disseminated through publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentation in scientific meetings.
Impact of lockdown and school closure on children in special schools: a single-centre survey
Authors: Banerjee Tapomay , Khan Amjad , Kesavan Piriyanga
Published: February 2021

Special schools play a significant role in the daily lives of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. We explored the impact of the COVID-19-related first lockdown and resulting school closure by surveying parents whose children attended three special schools in Bedford, UK. We asked about anxiety and impact on emotional well-being and education. We received 53 responses from parents: 31 felt their child was more anxious during the lockdown period/school closure compared with beforehand and 42 felt their child’s emotional well-being had been affected. Children and young people attending special schools may have struggled both academically and emotionally during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Duty of candour and communication during an infection control incident in a paediatric ward of a Scottish hospital: how can we do better?
Authors: Inkster Teresa , Cuddihy John
Published: February 2021

Duty of candour legislation was introduced in Scotland in 2018. However, literature and experience of duty of candour when applied to infection control incidents/outbreaks is scarce. We describe clinician and parental perspectives with regard to duty of candour and communication during a significant infection control incident in a haemato-oncology ward of a children’s hospital. Based on the learning from this incident, we make recommendations for duty of candour and communication to patients and families during future infection control incidents. These include the need to consider a crisis management approach, the importance of not underestimating psychological harm in incidents of a prolonged duration and embedding the existing legislation pertaining to the rights of the child.
Effects of whey protein on skeletal muscle microvascular and mitochondrial plasticity following 10 weeks of exercise training in men with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Gaffney Kim , Lucero Adam , Macartney-Coxson Donia , Clapham Jane , Whitfield Patricia , Palmer Barry R. , Wakefield StJohn , Faulkner James , Stoner Lee , Rowlands David S.
Published: February 2021

Skeletal muscle microvascular dysfunction and mitochondrial rarefaction feature in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) linked to low tissue glucose disposal rate (GDR). Exercise training and milk protein supplementation independently promote microvascular and metabolic plasticity in muscle associated with improved nutrient delivery, but combined effects are unknown. In a randomised-controlled trial, 24 men (55.6 y, SD 5.7) with T2DM ingested whey protein drinks (protein/carbohydrate/fat: 20/10/3 g; WHEY) or placebo (carbohydrate/fat: 30/3 g; CON) before/after 45 mixed-mode intense exercise sessions over 10 weeks, to study effects on insulin-stimulated (hyperinsulinemic clamp) skeletal-muscle microvascular blood flow (mBF) and perfusion (near-infrared spectroscopy), and histological, genetic, and biochemical markers (biopsy) of microvascular and mitochondrial plasticity. WHEY enhanced insulin-stimulated perfusion (WHEY-CON 5.6%; 90% CI −0.1, 11.3), while mBF was not altered (3.5%; −17.5, 24.5); perfusion, but not mBF, associated (regression) with increased GDR. Exercise training increased mitochondrial (range of means: 40%–90%) and lipid density (20%–30%), enzyme activity (20%–70%), capillary:fibre ratio (∼25%), and lowered systolic (∼4%) and diastolic (4%–5%) blood pressure, but without WHEY effects. WHEY dampened PGC1α −2.9% (90% compatibility interval: −5.7, −0.2) and NOS3 −6.4% (−1.4, −0.2) expression, but other messenger RNA (mRNA) were unclear. Skeletal muscle microvascular and mitochondrial exercise adaptations were not accentuated by whey protein ingestion in men with T2DM. ANZCTR Registration Number: ACTRN12614001197628.

Novelty: Chronic whey ingestion in T2DM with exercise altered expression of several mitochondrial and angiogenic mRNA. Whey added no additional benefit to muscle microvascular or mitochondrial adaptations to exercise. Insulin-stimulated perfusion increased with whey but was without impact on glucose disposal.
The effect of increasing intakes of plant protein on the protein quality of Canadian diets
Authors: Marinangeli Christopher P.F. , Fabek Hrvoje , Ahmed Mavra , Sanchez-Hernandez Diana , Foisy Samara , House James D
Published: February 2021

The 2015 Canadian Community Health Survey was used to investigated the protein content and protein quality of the diets consumed by adults (≥ 19 years) when plant protein is increased. Individuals (n=6498) were allocated to quartiles of increasing proportions of protein from plant foods (Q1:0-24.9%; Q2:25%-49.9%; Q3:50-74.9%; Q4:75-100%). The Protein Digestibility Corrected Amino Acid Score (PDCAAS) of diets were estimated using indispensable amino acid concentrations of foods and an assumed digestibility coefficient of 0.8. Corrected protein intakes were determined by aggregating foods consumed over 24hrs and as the sum of corrected protein consumed at eating events within six, four-hour time intervals. Most individuals (51%) consumed 25-49.9% of protein from plant foods. Cereal-based foods represented the majority of plant protein consumed. PDCAAS of diets remained ≥0.87 for Q1-3, but decreased (p<0.0001) to 0.71±0.018 in Q4 vs. Q2 (0.96±0.004). Corrected protein intakes in Q2 (80.66±1.21 g/day; 1.07±0.03 g protein/kg BW) decreased to 37.13±1.88 g/day (0.54±0.03 g/kg BW) in Q4 (p<0.0001). Aggregated daily corrected protein intake strongly correlated (r=0.99; p<0.001) with the sum of corrected protein consumed within time intervals. Intra-time interval analysis revealed that the relative proportions of animal and plant proteins changed at eating events over 24hrs; and did not reflect the allocation to quartiles based on the daily proportion of plant protein consumption. Various tools should be explored and developed to assist Canadians in effectively incorporating plant protein foods into dietary patterns.
Novelty:
●Corrected protein intakes decreased as plant protein consumption increased.
●PDCAAS was ≥0.87 for diets with ≤74.9% plant protein.
Investigation of the chemical ordering for PdnPt(32−n)Rh6 nanoalloys in TO structure
Authors: Garip Ali Kemal , Göcen Tuğba
Published: February 2021

Using basin-hopping algorithm within the quantum corrected Sutton-Chen (Q-SC) many-body potential, a systematic investigation has been performed for the best chemical ordering structures of 38-atom trimetallic PdnPt[Formula: see text]Rh6 nanoalloys with truncated octahedral (TO) geometry. The atomic mixing degrees of Pd, Pt and Rh atoms were investigated by using order parameter ([Formula: see text]). The results show that demixing is energetically favorable for the investigated structures, where the number of Rh atoms fixed at 6. The only compositions with the number of hetero bonds lower than the homo bonds are Pt[Formula: see text]Rh6, Pd1Pt[Formula: see text]Rh6, Pd[Formula: see text]Pt[Formula: see text]Rh6 and Pd[Formula: see text]Rh6 which make segregation energetically favorable. The surface segregation of Pd atoms is explained by the lower cohesive energy of Pd atoms than Pt and Rh. The segregation of Pd atoms to the surface is also associated with the smaller surface energies compared with Pt and Rh atoms. Due to the comparable cohesive energies of Rh and Pt atoms, a computation occurs for filling the octahedral core between two kinds.
EFFECT OF EXERCISE IN WATER ON THE MUSCULOSKELETAL PAIN IN PREGNANT WOMEN: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL
Authors: Niaraki Masoumeh Rezaei , Pakniat Hamideh , Alizadeh Ahad , Hosseini Mohammad Ali , Ranjkesh Fatemeh
Published: February 2021

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders have been a major cause of disability in pregnant women. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of exercise in an aquatic environment on the musculoskeletal pain among pregnant women. Material and methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 54 pregnant women aged 20–35 years. The subjects were divided into the intervention group and control groups. Women who were in 20 to 26 weeks of gestation were included in the study. The intervention was Water Exercise in Pregnancy program conducted from week 20 to week 34. The control group received standard prenatal care. Musculoskeletal complications were assessed using the Nordic questionnaires at the baseline and, 4th and 8th week of pregnancy. The intensity of pain was assessed using a visual analog scale in the two groups. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics via the SPSS v.16. The lsmeans package was used to examine comparisons. Results: Results of the study showed that level of discomfort and musculoskeletal complications in the intervention group was significantly reduced during the 4th and 8th week of the study compared to the control group ([Formula: see text]). After the intervention, intensity of musculoskeletal pain in the intervention group showed a significant decrease compared to the control group ([Formula: see text]). Conclusion: Exercise in water during pregnancy can be effective to reduce musculoskeletal complications. Aquatic exercises should be developed in the exercise program for pregnant women with musculoskeletal pain.
DYSPHAGIA IN FIBROMYALGIA SYNDROME IN WOMEN: TRUTH OR MYTH? A CASE CONTROL STUDY
Authors: Umay Ebru , Gundogdu Ibrahim , Gurcay Eda , Ozturk Erhan Arif , Bahtiyarca Zeynep Tuba , Alicura Sibel , Karaahmet Ozgur
Published: February 2021

Purpose: This study was aimed to investigate the presence of dysphagia with multidimensional objective tests in FM female patients with and without dysphagia symptom compared to healthy female subjects.

Methods: A case control study was conducted on 165 subjects (21 FM patients with dysphagia symptom, 62 FM patients without dysphagia symptom and 82 healthy subjects). All subjects were evaluated with a clinical screening test, endoscopy, electrophysiology of swallowing (dysphagia limit and swallowing intervals) and musculoskeletal ultrasound (cross-sectional thickness and area of swallowing muscles). Patients (with and without dysphagia symptom) and healthy subjects were compared in terms of all evaluation parameters.

Results: The mean age of 165 subjects was [Formula: see text] years and all subjects ([Formula: see text], 100%) were female. Endoscopic evaluation results were similar among three groups ([Formula: see text]). Both the functional evaluation of swallowing measured by swallowing intervals ([Formula: see text]-value between 0.001 and 0.004) and the structural features assessed by the ultrasound ([Formula: see text]-value between 0.001 and 0.007) were significantly impaired in patient groups compared to healthy subjects. FM patients without dysphagia symptom also had significant impairments in function ([Formula: see text]-value between 0.001 and 0.004 for swallowing intervals) and structural features ([Formula: see text]-value between 0.001 and 0.007 for cross-sectional thickness and area of swallowing muscles) compared to healthy subjects.

Conclusion: The structure and function of swallowing may be affected in patients with FM, even without dysphagia symptoms.
DIGITAL FIBROMYXOMA: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Ajawi Mahmood , Abdulkareem Irfan , Darwish Abdullah H. , Mukhtar Iftikhar A. , Iftikhar Noora
Published: February 2021

Digital fibromyxoma is a rare soft tissue tumor with a propensity to grow in the digits of the hands and feet. While mostly asymptomatic, the tumors can grow and cause discomfort and eventually pain. It is a benign tumor, with treatment revolving around complete excision to prevent recurrence. In this case report, we discuss the case of a 11-year old boy presented with a swelling in the right ring finger that had been increasing in size for over a year. Despite the lack of pain or limitation of movement in the finger, the swelling caused concern to the patient and family due to cosmetic appearance. An excision biopsy with histopathological analysis of the tissue sample suggested the diagnosis of digital fibromyxoma. The high rate of recurrence is due to incomplete excision, and therefore regular follow up is recommended to monitor for recurrence.
A new characterization of cyclic modules over local rings
Authors: Naghipour Reza
Published: February 2021

The aim of this paper is to give a new characterization of cyclic modules over local rings, namely, we show that if [Formula: see text] is a nonzero finitely generated module over a local (Noetherian) ring [Formula: see text] such that for some integer [Formula: see text], the submodule [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is cyclic, then every submodule of [Formula: see text] is cyclic and the ring [Formula: see text] is a [Formula: see text], whenever [Formula: see text]. As a consequence, it follows that [Formula: see text] is a [Formula: see text] and every submodule of [Formula: see text] is cyclic.
A METHOD FOR DETECTING CORONARY ARTERY STENOSIS BASED ON ECG SIGNALS
Authors: ZHANG HUAN , WANG XINPEI , LIU CHANGCHUN , LI YUANYANG , LIU YUANYUAN , LI PENG , YAO LIANKE , WANG JIKUO , JIAO YU
Published: February 2021

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a typical cardiovascular disease whose occurrence and development is a long process. Timely and accurate diagnosis of patients with varying degrees of coronary artery stenosis (VDCAS) is conducive to accurate treatment and prognosis assessment. This study aims to correctly classify VDCAS patients by utilizing multi-domain features fusion of single-lead 5-min ECG signals and machine learning methods, so as to provide reference for doctors to judge the CHD development process. ECG signals were collected from 206 subjects with CHD, mild CHD, thoracalgia and normal coronary angiograms (TNCA), and healthy. Then, the time, frequency, time–frequency, and nonlinear domain features of ECG signals were extracted to establish a multi-domain feature set. To get the optimum subset of features, the recursive feature elimination (RFE) and information gain (IG) were selected. Subsequently, eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and random forest (RF) were adopted for classification. Results indicated that RFE combined with XGBoost was significantly effective in classifying VDCAS patients. When the four categories of subjects (CHD, mild CHD, TNCA, and healthy) were classified, the average accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and F1-score of the proposed method were 91.74%, 89.39%, 96.80%, and 90.09%, respectively. Besides, three categories of subjects (no stenosis, luminal narrowing [Formula: see text] 50%, and luminal narrowing [Formula: see text] 50%) and two categories of subjects (CHD and healthy) were also analyzed, and the average accuracy was 91.27% and 98.46%, respectively. The results suggest that the proposed method can provide reference for doctors to judge VDCAS patients.
Super strongly perfect graphs
Authors: Mathew Vrinda Mary , Kureethara Joseph Varghese
Published: February 2021

Some of the published results on super strongly perfect graphs are found to be erroneous. We provide some examples and counter examples on the concepts associated with super strongly perfects.
Bounds for complete cototal domination number of Cartesian product graphs and complement graphs
Authors: Maria Regila Baby J. , Uma Samundesvari K.
Published: February 2021

A total dominating set [Formula: see text] is said to be a complete cototal dominating set if [Formula: see text] has no isolated nodes and it is represented by [Formula: see text]. The complete cototal domination number, represented by [Formula: see text], is the minimum cardinality of a [Formula: see text] set of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, the bounds for complete cototal domination number of Cartesian product graphs and complement graphs are determined.
Geochemical characteristics of rare earth elements (REEs) in soils developed on different parent materials, in the Baoshan area, Yunnan Province, SW China
Authors: Zhang Li , Han Wei , Peng Min , Liu Fei , Song Yuntao , Liu Xiujin , Wang Qiaolin , Li Kuo , Zhao Dongjie , Yang Wei , Qin Yuanli , Cheng Hangxin
Published: February 2021

The geochemistry of rare earth elements (REEs) was studied in rock samples from host formations, ore samples from two mineral deposits (the Hetaoping Cu-Pb-Zn mine: HTP and the Heiyanao Fe-Cu-Pb-Zn mine: HYA) and the overlying or nearby soils to better understand REE concentrations, distributions and behaviour during weathering from different parent materials at the regional scale, Baoshan area, Yunnan Province, SW China. The mudstone and sandstone formations have the highest total REE (ΣREE) contents. Chondrite-normalized diagrams for rocks and ores show significant light REEs (LREEs) enrichments and Eu depletion (except for ores in HYA). Cerium displays an obvious negative anomaly in carbonate rocks (Є-3-R, C-R, D-R, T-1-R and T-2-R). Soils overlying carbonate rock formations (T-1-S, C-S and Є-3-S) have the highest ΣREE contents, while soils overlying basalts have the lowest ΣREE contents. Soils show enrichments in LREEs with negative Eu anomalies and slight Ce anomalies in the studied soils. Soils with high ∑LREE/∑heavy REE (HREE) values may result from the preferential absorption of LREEs by organic matter. Negative Eu anomalies in soils occur for parent materials in the study area lacking feldspar, especially soils developed from carbonates. Compared to the parent materials, most soils show REE enrichment because alkali metals are removed and REEs are concentrated by low mobility in surficial processes and positive Ce anomalies because of weathering dissolution of other trivalent REEs with ionic radii similar to that of Ca
2+
.

Supplementary material:
Additional data (Tables S1 and S2) and sample locations (Fig. S1) are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.5303140