Low Stress Research Articles

Iron Toxicity in Plants: A Review

Iron (Fe) is an essential micronutrient for plant growth and development. However, increased absorption of iron leads to iron toxicity. This leads to damage to plant cell membranes, decreased growth, productivity, and thus general health. The presence of free iron in cells can lead to an imbalance Redox in cells Pro-oxidant state, thus generating oxidative stress. In plants, iron is involved in chlorophyll synthesis, and is therefore essential for maintaining the structure and function of chloroplasts. Micronutrients in the soil can limit plant growth, even if all other nutrients are available in sufficient quantities. Micronutrient deficiencies are widespread due to the nature of the soil, high pH, low organic matter, salt stress, and persistent drought. High levels of bicarbonate in irrigation water, as well as unbalanced use of fertilizers. Iron (Fe) toxicity is a widespread nutritional disorder. It grows in acidic, sulphurous soils, as well as low sandy soils (i.e. iron is easily reducible) that contain a high percentage of organic matter. Iron toxicity can be reduced by using rice that is tolerant to high levels of iron.

Ladybug-inspired hierarchical composite adhesives for enhanced surface adaptability

Abstract Enhanced adhesion on rough surfaces is highly desired for a wide range of applications. On the other hand, surface roughness compatibility and structure stability are two critical but competing factors for biologically-inspired dry adhesives in the real world. Inspired by ladybug, a hierarchical structural composite dry adhesive (denoted as PP-M) with enhanced robustness on surface roughness is developed, which is composed of a thin compliant contact layer (a thin soft polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) film supported discretely by PDMS micropillars) and a rigid bottom layer magnetorheological elastomers (MREs). The PP-M shows a high pull-off strength of 8.2 N cm−2 on a smooth surface and nano-scale rough surface at a mild preload (2 N cm−2). For micro-scale rough surfaces, the PP-M exhibits better surface adaptability compared to the double-layered adhesive (PDMS on MRE) without micropillar support. The increased compliance of the contact layer also leads to a 2.11 fold superior pull-off strength at a wider range of roughness (Sq > 2.23 μm). Element analysis confirms PP-M’s enhanced adaptability, attributed to deeper indentation and lower contact stress. This hierarchical composite structure in PP-M, characterized by a ‘soft on top and hard on bottom’ stiffness distribution, synergizes the flexible contact layer with the stiff MRE bottom layer, leading to superior adhesive properties. The results provide a new reference for achieving enhanced adhesion on rough surfaces.

Growth and characterization of micro-LED based on GaN substrate

As the diminution of micro-LED pixels advances, the pivotal role of dislocation phenomena becomes increasingly pronounced. This study provides insight into the key characteristics and dominant mechanisms of GaN-based micro-LEDs by comparing the homoepitaxial and heteroepitaxial configurations. Our findings reveal that variability in V-shaped pits distribution markedly influences the performance and uniformity of micro-LED chips. While the homoepitaxial micro-LEDs, alongside significantly reduced dislocation density and residual stress, effectively preclude the formation of them and thus ensuring superior uniformity both within and among micro-LED chips. Notably, the external quantum efficiency (EQE) peak of homoepitaxial micro-LEDs surpasses that of heteroepitaxial variants by 40%. Motivated by the realization that the reduced MQW thickness at the sidewalls of V-shaped pit aids carrier injection, a great enhancement in EQE from 7.9% to 14.8% (@ 10 A/cm2) was achieved by the optimization of homoepitaxial structure. Therefore, the growth of micro-LED with lower dislocation density, lower residual stress, and epi-structure of low-energy-barrier MQWs demonstrated the profound impact on advancing micro-LED technology to obtain the performance of high uniformity, high brightness, and low power consumption.

Data-driven inverse design of the perforated auxetic phononic crystals for elastic wave manipulation

Abstract In addition to the distinctive features of tunable Poisson’s ratio from positive to negative and low stress concentration, the perforated auxetic metamaterials by peanut-shaped cuts have exhibited excellent phononic crystal (PNC) behavior as well for elastic wave manipulation. Thus they have attracted much attention in vibration suppression for dynamic applications. However, traditional structural designs of the auxetic PNCs considerably depend on designers’ experience or inspiration to fulfill the desired multi-objective bandgap properties through extensive trial and error. Hence, developing a more efficient and robust inverse design method remains challenging to accelerate the creation of auxetic PNCs and improve their performance. To shorten this gap, a new machine learning (ML) framework consisting of double back propagation neural network (BPNN) modules is developed in this work to produce desired configurations of the auxetic PNCs matching the customized bandgap. The first inverse BPNN module is trained to establish a logical mapping from the bandgap properties to the structural parameters, and then the second forward BPNN module is introduced to give the new property prediction by using the design configurations generated from the former. The error between the new predictions and the desired target properties is minimized through a limited number of iterations to produce the final optimal objective configurations. The results indicate that the perforated auxetic metamaterials behave relatively wide complete bandgap and the present ML model is effective in designing them with specific bandgaps within or beyond the given dataset. The study provides a powerful tool for designing and optimizing the perforated auxetic metamaterials in dynamic environment.

Occupational Stress in Healthcare Professionals in Spain: A Multicenter Study.

Introduction: Occupational stress significantly impacts healthcare professionals in the Spanish public hospital system. This study, conducted from April to June 2022, focuses on analyzing stress levels using the Nursing Stress Scale through an online survey. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out using an online survey from April to June 2022 in four hospitals. The Nursing Stress Scale was used to comprehensively assess stress levels among healthcare professionals. Results: The findings revealed a substantial contrast in stress outcomes based on personal circumstances. Healthcare professionals in stable partnerships and with children exhibited lower stress levels, acting as protective factors during the pandemic. Conversely, those engaged in rotating shifts, especially those working over 60 h per week, showed a sevenfold increase in high-stress probability (p < 0.05). Temporary contract holders and those with heightened exposure to COVID-19 reported elevated stress levels, highlighting the complex dynamics impacting the mental well-being of healthcare workers. Conclusions: Findings emphasize the necessity for targeted interventions to safeguard healthcare professionals' well-being, focusing on the psychological consequences of factors like rotating shifts and extended working hours. Protective elements such as stable partnerships and parenthood could serve as a foundation for initiatives supporting work-life balance, potentially involving government policies and hospital management.

Interventional Effect of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles with Zea mays L. Plants When Compensating Irrigation Using Saline Water.

High salinity reduces agriculture production and quality, negatively affecting the global economy. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) enhance plant metabolism and abiotic stress tolerance. This study investigated the effects of 2 g/L foliar Zinc oxide NPs on Zea mays L. plants to ameliorate 150 mM NaCl-induced salt stress. After precipitation, ZnO-NPs were examined by UV-visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, and particle size distribution. This study examined plant height, stem diameter (width), area of leaves, chlorophyll levels, hydrolyzable sugars, free amino acids, protein, proline, hydrogen peroxide, and malondialdehyde. Gas chromatographic analysis quantified long-chain fatty acids, and following harvest, leaves, stalks, cobs, seeds, and seeds per row were weighed. The leaves' acid and neutral detergent fibers were measured along with the seeds' starch, fat, and protein. Plant growth and chlorophyll concentration decreased under salt stress. All treatments showed significant changes in maize plant growth and development after applying zinc oxide NPs. ZnO-NPs increased chlorophyll and lowered stress. ZnO-NPs enhanced the ability of maize plants to withstand the adverse conditions of saline soils or low-quality irrigation water. This field study investigated the effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles on maize plant leaves when saline water is utilized for growth season water. This study also examined how this foliar treatment affected plant biochemistry, morphology, fatty acid synthesis, and crop production when NaCl is present and when it is not.

Design and performance evaluation of a novel modular asymmetrical multilevel inverter with minimal switches

In the present scenario, emerging topologies in the area of Asymmetrical Multilevel Inverter (AMLI) with fewer power switches and voltage sources have been received greater attention to achieve higher levels with low THD and voltage stress. The present work proposes a novel modular AMLI topology to generate 7-level and 15-level in the output voltage. This topology needs minimal components in comparison of topologies reported in literature. Simulation of the 7-level and 15-level AMLI is performed using MATLAB to generate all the desired levels in the output voltage for different operating frequencies and different modulation indexes. Further, a comparison of the suggested topology with other similar multilevel inverter (MLI) topologies has also been performed on the basis of number of drivers, number of DC sources, levels in the output voltage and power switches. Furthermore, efficiency, losses and total harmonic analysis of 7-level and 15-level AMLI have been calculated and compared with other studies. Finally, simulation results are validated on a hardware set up of the proposed inverter using Opal-RT 4510 controller.

Genetic diversity matters for restoration of a threatened saltmarsh plant in harsh environments

Abstract While genetic diversity is theorised to increase the restoration success of degraded plant populations, previous studies examining its impacts on restoration outcomes have yielded mixed results. We hypothesise that the importance of genetic diversity for the performance of plants targeted for restoration increases with environmental stress and varies with specific plant traits related to different plant successive life stages. To test this, we conducted a fully factorial common garden experiment, crossing salinity and genetic diversity under low‐ and high‐nitrogen conditions on the growth and reproduction of Scirpus mariqueter, a threatened endemic saltmarsh plant in the Yangtze Estuary. The impacts of genetic diversity varied across stress gradients and metrics. Under high stress (high salinity, low nutrients), greater diversity enhanced reproductive traits such as clonal growth and seed production, but not under low stress. Plant growth traits showed no diversity effects regardless of stress. Synthesis: Our results highlight the importance of considering intraspecific genetic diversity in ecological restoration and help explain the context‐dependent effects of diversity.

Stress-deformation analysis of the cracked elastic body

A new analytical plane Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM) model of the effective elastic moduli exhibited by an isotropic elastic cracked solid in tensile and compressive stress fields is presented. The effective Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio E¯,v¯, respectively, relate the stresses applied to the cracked solid with its macroscopic deformation. In the case of a compressive stress field the effective elastic moduli depend solely on properly oriented cracks that are either open or closed. This model is then used for the stress and displacement estimations around a circular axisymmetric hole under internal pressure and external hydrostatic stress. The creation of the hole alters the stresses in its neighborhood, and induces a deterioration of the elastic moduli. In this manner, the effective elastic moduli depend on the radial distance from the hole’s boundary. The validation of the algorithm was done against Kirsch’s analytical solution of the axisymmetric hole problem for nearly zero density of cracks as well as for large values of the friction angle. The model predicts a lower tangential stress concentration at the wall of the hole compared to that predicted by the constant linear elasticity solution and a maximum stress concentration that is not necessarily located at the wall of the hole. This apparent enhancement of rock strength adjacent to the wall is more pronounced for larger concentrations of open cracks.

Identification and expression analysis of CCCH gene family and screening of key low temperature stress response gene CbuC3H24 and CbuC3H58 in Catalpa bungei

Catalpa bungei, a tree indigenous to China, is renowned for its superior timber quality and as an ornamental in horticulture. To promote the cultivation of C. bungei in cold regions and expand its distribution, enhancing its cold tolerance is essential. The CCCH gene family is widely involved in plant growth, development, and expression under stress conditions, including low-temperature stress. However, a comprehensive identification and analysis of these genes have not yet been conducted. This study aims to identify key cold-tolerance-related genes within the CCCH gene family of C. bungei, providing the necessary theoretical support for its expansion in cold regions. In this study, 61 CCCH genes within C. bungei were identified and characterized. Phylogenetic assessment divided these genes into 9 subfamilies, with 55 members mapped across 16 chromosomes. The analysis of gene structures and protein motifs indicated that members within the same subfamily shared similar exon/intron distribution and motif patterns, supporting the phylogenetic classification. Collinearity analysis suggested that segmental duplications have played a significant role in the expansion of the C. bungei CCCH gene family. Notably, RNA sequencing analysis under 4 °C cold stress conditions identified CbuC3H24 and CbuC3H58 as exhibiting the most significant responses, highlighting their importance within the CCCH zinc finger family in response to cold stress. The findings of this study lay a theoretical foundation for further exploring the mechanisms of cold tolerance in C. bungei, providing crucial insights for its cultivation in cold regions.

Investigating correlates of children's emotional well‐being: Parenting stress and child temperament

AbstractChildren's emotional well‐being may emerge as a result of the dynamic interplay between individual factors, such as temperament and environmental factors, such as parenting stress. The current study aimed to investigate the contributions of child temperament and parenting stress to children's emotional well‐being. This study also examined the moderating role of parenting stress on the association between child temperament and children's emotional well‐being. Participants were mothers of 219 Turkish preschool children (110 girls) aged 36 months to 76 months (M = 56.95 months, SD = 11.73 months). Mothers reported on children's emotional well‐being (emotion regulation, emotion dysregulation, child aggression and child anxiety), temperament (persistence and reactivity) and parenting stress. Persistence was negatively associated with emotion dysregulation and child aggression, while reactivity was negatively associated with emotion regulation and positively associated with emotion dysregulation, aggression and anxiety. Parenting stress was negatively associated with emotion regulation and positively associated with emotion dysregulation, aggression and anxiety. Simple slope analyses revealed that high persistence coupled with low parenting stress was associated with higher emotion regulation, while low persistence paired with high parenting stress was linked to higher child aggression. The findings underline the significance of child temperament and parenting stress for children's emotional well‐being.Highlights Temperamental persistence is negatively associated with emotion dysregulation and aggression. Temperamental reactivity is negatively associated with emotion regulation and positively associated with emotion dysregulation, aggression and anxiety. Parenting stress was negatively associated with emotion regulation and positively associated with emotion dysregulation, aggression and anxiety in children.

Numerical modelling of multiple sclerosis: A tissue-scale model of brain lesions

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune condition leading to the degeneration of brain tissue, occurring when the immune system attacks the myelin sheath surrounding axons of white brain matter thereby disrupting brain signals. This study aimed to evaluate how MS lesions alter stress distribution through grey and white brain matter with lesions (active, chronic, and inactive). A linear viscoelastic model represents the tissue-scale dynamic deformation and time dependency of brain tissue. A Prony series expansion was used to model viscous effects including stress relaxation. An elastic modulus, within the viscoelastic model, was either reduced by 11 % for active lesions, or increased by 35 % increase for inactive lesions. These material properties were then implemented to model healthy tissue, active, chronically inflamed, and inactive lesions. Finite element analysis enabled stress evaluation in response to a peak cyclic displacement of 0.5 mm (1 % strain) with the healthy model acting as a control model. Chronic lesions had the largest effect on stress induced, in terms of high (171 Pa) and low stress (108 Pa). Inactive lesions induced an increase in stress of 11 Pa with areas of low stress (105 Pa). Active lesions caused the least deviation in peak induced stress (7 Pa). In conclusion, a hierarchy in stress induced across the lesion types has been found, from highest to lowest: chronic, inactive and active, with potential implications for lesion progression. In conclusion, MS lesions within brain tissue should model lesions, avoid assuming homogeneity during degeneration, and should distinguish between active and passive lesions.

The mechanism of tuning filler orientation degree in composites based on AC electric field assist: from microscopic dynamical model to macroscopic electrical properties

Using the AC electric field to induce the orientation of nonlinear conductive fillers in composites is an effective solution for alleviating electric field distortion in power modules. However, the mechanism by which the electric field affects the filler dynamic characteristics and the composites’ electrical properties remains unclear. In this paper, the correlation between the microscopic dynamic processes of fillers and the macroscopic current amplitude was analyzed. The results show that the current increases rapidly (0 ∼ 173 s) and then slowly (173 ∼ 869 s) at 600 V mm−1, influenced by the rotation and attraction processes of the fillers. This demonstrates that the orientation stops at about 869 s and the filler orientation state is a key factor in determining the dielectric properties. Secondly, the global orientation evaluation index D for the filler network was proposed, which can also derive the minimum time and energy loss required for preparation. Finally, the impact of different filler orientations on the composites’ conductivity was investigated. In the low electric field stress region, with the average carrier jump distance decreasing from 150.23 to 109.71 nm as the D increases from −0.93 to −0.05. On this basis, materials with nonlinear conductivity gradient distribution can be easily prepared. Before optimization, the electric field stress of the power module at the triple point was 35.79 kV. This composite can reduce the value to 15.42 kV, a decrease of 56.9%, while maintaining good electric field uniformity.

Short-term outcomes and inflammatory stress response following laparoscopy or robotic-assisted transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair (TAPP): study protocol for a prospective, randomized trial (ROLAIS)

BackgroundInguinal hernia repair is a frequently performed surgical procedure, with laparoscopic repair emerging as the preferred approach due to its lower complication rate and faster recovery compared to open repair. Mesh-based tension-free repair is the gold standard for both methods. In recent years, robotic hernia repair has been introduced as an alternative to laparoscopic repair, offering advantages such as decreased postoperative pain and improved ergonomics.This study aims to compare the short- and long-term outcomes, including the surgical stress response, postoperative complications, quality of life, and sexual function, between robotic-assisted transabdominal preperitoneal (rTAPP) and laparoscopic TAPP inguinal hernia repairs.MethodsThis randomized controlled trial will involve 150 patients from the Surgical Department of the University Hospital of Southern Denmark, randomized to undergo either rTAPP or laparoscopic TAPP. Surgical stress will be quantified by measuring C-reactive protein (CRP) and cytokine levels. Secondary outcomes include complication rates, quality of life, sexual function, and operative times. Data analysis will adhere to the intention-to-treat principle and will be conducted once all patient data are collected, with outcomes assessed at various postoperative intervals.DiscussionThis study holds significance in evaluating the potential advantages of robotic-assisted surgery in the context of inguinal hernia repairs.It is hypothesized that rTAPP will result in a lower surgical stress response and potentially lower the risk of postoperative complications compared to conventional laparoscopic TAPP. The implications of this research could influence future surgical practices and guidelines, with a focus on patient recovery and healthcare costs. The findings of this study will contribute to the ongoing discourse surrounding the utilization of robotic systems in surgery, potentially advocating for their broader implementation if the benefits are substantiated.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT05839587. Retrospectively registered on 28 February 2023.

Experimental study on the creep acoustic emission of fractured sandstone reinforced by anchor rods

To investigate the reinforcement and crack-stopping effect of anchor rods on fractured rock masses, Triassic sandstone from the Xiaolangdi Reservoir area was selected and fabricated into double-fractured specimens. Subsequently, 1 and 2 horizontal anchor rods were used to reinforce the double-fractured sandstone specimens sequentially. Using the RLJW-2000 rock rheological servo tester and the PCI-II type acoustic emission (AE) tester, indoor uniaxial compression creep and AE tests were conducted under the same experimental conditions for the unanchored, singly-anchored, and doubly-anchored sandstone specimens. Based on the experimental results, the creep mechanical characteristics and the three-dimensional spatial evolution of the AE events of the specimens with different numbers of anchor rods were analysed. This study focuses on the reinforcement and crack-stopping effect of anchor rods on fractured rock masses. The experimental results indicate the following: (1) Compared with those of the unanchored specimens, the creep failure strengths of the singly- and doubly-anchored specimens increase by 7.79 % and 22.14 %, respectively. (2) At a stress level of 60 MPa, the axial strains of the single-anchor and double-anchor specimens decreased by 8.41 % and 32.97 %, respectively, compared to the corresponding strain of the unanchored specimen, and the radial strains decreased by 9.21 % and 28.13 %, respectively. (3) Anchor rods have a good reinforcement effect on fractured sandstone, enhancing specimen strength and reducing deformation. (4) With an increase in the number of anchor rods, the reinforcement effect of anchor rods on fractured rock masses strengthened, and the reinforcement effect of double anchors was superior to that of single anchors. (5) Compared with those of the unanchored specimens, under relatively low stress levels, when the AE events extended to the area where the anchor rods were located, the number of AE events for both types of specimens decreased significantly, forming a blank area in the AE events, and the blank area of the double-anchored specimens was larger than that of the single-anchored specimens. (6) With increasing stress, many AE events originated, expanded, and passed through the anchor rod area, indicating that the specimen was about to undergo creep instability failure. (7) The evolution characteristics of the AE events are in good agreement with those of the macroscopic cracks on the specimen surface. The AE characteristics indicate that anchor rods have a significant crack-stopping effect on fractured rock masses, suppressing the initiation, expansion, connection, and penetration of internal microcracks in the specimens. Moreover, the crack-stopping effect of double anchors is superior to that of single anchors.

Compassion, stress and coping strategies in family caregivers of patients with heart failure

The requirements of caring for individuals with diseases with excess care burden like heart failure (HF) comprise a source of stress for the caregiver. This situation affects the health of caregivers and may cause a reduction in their level of compassion. However, compassion is associated with psychological benefits and coping strategies like positive mood in caregivers.The aim of this study was to investigate the correlations between compassion, coping strategies and stress levels of family members caring for individuals with HF. We found that the dysfunctional coping strategies were determined to play a partial mediating role in the relationship between caregiver compassion levels and stress levels. Caregivers with higher compassion levels reported lower stress levels. This situation may be linked to their use of relatively fewer dysfunctional coping strategies. Findings help to examine the correlations between compassion, coping strategies and stress levels of family members caring for individuals with HF.

Effects of Virtual Reality (VR)-Based Meditation on Sleep Quality, Stress, and Autonomic Nervous System Balance in Nursing Students.

This study aimed to determine the effects of virtual reality (VR)-based meditation on the sleep quality, stress, and autonomic nervous system balance of nursing students. Nursing students were categorized into experimental groups I (VR-based meditation) and II (concentration meditation) and a control group. Before the study's initiation, we measured the participants' general characteristics, and a sleep measurement device was used to measure sleep quality. Stress levels and heart rate variability were measured before and after study completion. On the first day, all three groups slept without any intervention. On days 2-6, only experimental groups I and II implemented the intervention before sleeping. We found that the subjective sleep quality, wakefulness after sleep onset, sleep efficiency, deep sleep quality, subjective stress, objective stress, and autonomic nervous system balance of the VR meditation group were significantly better than those of the other groups. Our results reveal that the participants who underwent VR-based meditation experienced better sleep quality, lower stress levels, and improved autonomic nervous system balance compared with those in the concentration meditation and control groups. Thus, VR-based meditation effectively enhances sleep quality, lowers stress levels, and improves autonomic nervous system balance in nursing students.

Influence of humic acids on growth performance, bravery, stress resistance, antioxidant activity, and immune gene expression in male Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens)

The current study investigated the effects of a humic acid supplement on the growth performance, antioxidant enzyme activity, immune-related genes, behavior and endocrinology of male Betta splendens fish. Fish species that are naturally exposed to high levels of humic substances in their environment are likely to perform better under captive conditions when given these substances. In this study, fish were fed a diet containing 0, 0.5 %, 1 %, and 1.5 % humic acid for six weeks. The results showed no significant differences in growth and feeding parameters between treatments (p > 0.05). The fish with a diet of 1.5 % humic acid showed more aggressive behavior in the mirror test than the control group (p < 0.05). In contrast, the fish fed a diet containing 1 % and 1.5 % humic acid showed a higher level of activity in the test with new objects than the control group (p < 0.05). The testosterone levels after aggression were significantly higher in the fish fed diets containing 1 % and 1.5 % humic acid than in the control group (p < 0.05). In addition, the humic acid-treated fish showed lower oxidative stress and cortisol production in common aquaculture stressors than the control (p < 0.05). Gene expression analysis showed upregulation of immune-related genes, including β-defensin 1, c-type lysozyme, interleukin-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α, in response to humic acid supplementation compared to control (p < 0.05). Overall, the results of this study indicate that a diet containing 1 % humic acid has a positive effect on the physiology, immunology, and behavior of male B. splendens.

Assessment of lifestyle factors, stress levels, and quality of life among people with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

BackgroundIndia is deemed the “Diabetes Capital,” with over 100 million people suffering from this deadly disease. The disease is a lifestyle disorder and significantly impacts the quality of life. Thus, the study assesses the lifestyle factors and quality of life (QoL) among people suffering from Type 2 Diabetes (T2D).Materials and methodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 T2DM participants aged 18–65. Data were collected from Diabetic Clinics across Pune City using the Modified Diabetes Quality of Life Questionnaire, having seven domains with 17 questions. Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) were used to assess Stress and Physical Activity. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to collect data. The data was entered and cleaned in Microsoft Excel and analysis was done using SPSS v23. Descriptive and inferential analysis was computed.Results60% of the participants were males with a mean age of 43.30 ± 10.89 years. The mean age of women was 50.17 ± 10.13 years. The mean HbA1c of males and females was 7.98 ± 1.41 and 7.83 ± 1.25, respectively. 83% have moderate stress, while 11% have low stress. Only 11% were found to be physically active. The average QoL score of the participants was 63.4 ± 11.2, non-significantly higher in males than in females (64.9 ± 11.03 vs 61.0 ± 11.22). Domain assessment of QoL showed statistical significance among general health (p = 0.002) and energy fatigue (p = 0.015), with males having better general health than women, and energy levels were better in females than males. However, no significance was seen between the genders in physical function, emotional well-being, and role limitation. A statistical significance for energy fatigue (p = 0.031) was observed when QoL was assessed across the disease duration.ConclusionDue to a sedentary lifestyle and increased stress, the glycemic profile of the participants was uncontrolled, which negatively impacted their quality of life. Thus, a holistic approach to managing diabetes will be more beneficial in improving the quality of life.

Swimming in viscoplastic fluids

Abstract Locomotion at small scales in the absence of inertia is a classical and enduring research topic. Here, recent developments in the theory of such locomotion through a viscoplastic ambient fluid are reviewed and explored. The specific focus here applies to motion of cylindrical filamentary bodies that are long and thin, for which an asymptotic slender-body theory can be exploited. Details of this theory are summarised and then applied to describe different swimming waveforms: undulation, peristalsis, and helical motion. It is shown that, in general, strong force anisotropy close to the limit of axial cylindrical motion has a significant effect on locomotion in viscoplastic media, allowing for highly efficient motion in which the swimmer is able to ‘cut’ through the material following very closely the path of its own axis. Some qualitative comparison with experiments is presented, and future extensions and research directions are reviewed. Graphical abstract Deformation fields around cylinders moving at different angles to their axis through a yield stress fluid, showing (a) a low yield stress and (b) a high yield stress