bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Test and analysis of air flow rate adaptive performance in a distributed fan ventilation system
Authors: Ju Fa-Li , Sun Qinrong , Hou Changlei , Huang Xue , Yu Xiaoping , Liu Liying
Published: January 2021

In this study, adaptive branch fan performance in a distributed fan ventilation system was tested. The results demonstrate that the adaptive branch fan stabilises the branch air flow rate within a certain air pressure range corresponding to the branch duct inlet, and this range becomes increasingly narrow as the fan control signal is adjusted to reduce the speed of the fan. The adaptive branch fan is less affected by the main fan and other branch fans in the distributed fan ventilation system because it has a good self-adaptive ability of ventilation duct resistance characteristics and anti-interference ability of the air flow rate. Furthermore, the hydraulic characteristics of the branch fans in the distributed fan ventilation system were analysed. The new performance characterisation parameters and method for modifying the engineering design for the adaptive branch fan were presented.

Practical application: This study investigates the adaptive performance of the branch fan in a distributed fan ventilation system. Our results demonstrate that the new branch fan can stabilise the air flow rate in a mechanical ventilation system. More importantly, we not only propose performance characterisation parameters of the adaptive branch fan that are important for understanding the operation of a mechanical ventilation system, but also present a method of engineering design application. This study can guide the design and operation of mechanical ventilation systems.
COVID-19 Pandemic in India Points to Need for a Decentralized Response
Authors: Shringare Alaknanda , Fernandes Seema
Published: January 2021

The inter-governmental response to the COVID-19 pandemic in India not only revealed centralized tendencies but also exposed weaknesses in the administrative and planning processes needed for a cohesive but flexible national response. This paper highlights some of the subnational states’ early responses to increasing COVID-19 cases and argues that, while India resorted to centralized measures to deal with the pandemic, a decentralized response may have proved more beneficial. Policy recommendations following this line of thinking conclude the article.
Predicting Adverse Histopathology and Need for Postsurgical Adjuvant Therapy for Human Papilloma Virus–Associated Oropharynx Carcinoma
Authors: Ochoa Edgar , Stanford‐Moore Gaelen , Fakhry Carole , Ryan William R.
Published: January 2021

Objective

For human papillomavirus–associated oropharynx carcinoma treated with definitive surgery, we aimed to find predictors of adverse histopathology indicating the possible need for adjuvant therapy.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Setting

National Cancer Database.

Methods

We analyzed 2347 eligible patients from 2010 to 2015. We evaluated (1) the ability of clinical nodal staging and extranodal extension designation per the AJCC, seventh edition (American Joint Committee on Cancer), to predict histopathology and (2) the likelihoods for adverse postsurgery histopathology by common clinical stages.

Results

Clinical nodal staging predicted pathologic nodal staging 65% of the time, with 24% (569/2347) being upstaged and 11% (251/2347) being downstaged. In patients with cN+ disease, clinical extranodal extension distinction had the following accuracy for pathologic extranodal extension: positive predictive value, 81% (88/109); negative predictive value, 73.1% (505/691); sensitivity, 32.1% (88/274); and specificity, 96.0% (505/526). Patients with cT1‐2, N0‐N2c, without clinical extranodal extension had the following proportions of pN2+ without pathologic extranodal extension (indicating consideration for adjuvant radiation): cN0, 11%; cN1, 31%; cN2a, 67% (8% downstaged); cN2b, 66% (6% downstaged); and cN2c, 35% (17% downstaged). From this group, patients had the following proportions of pathologic extranodal extension (indicating consideration for adjuvant chemoradiation): cN0, 6%; cN1, 20%; cN2a, 27%; cN2b, 28%; and cN2c, 48%.

Conclusion

For human papillomavirus–associated oropharynx carcinoma, nodal clinical staging per the American Joint Committee on Cancer, seventh edition, predicts pathologic stage about two‐thirds of the time, leading to up‐ and downstaging. Clinical extranodal extension assessment has low sensitivity and moderate predictive capability. With careful selection, definitive surgery can allow patients to often avoid adjuvant chemotherapy and sometimes avoid adjuvant radiation.
(Im)mobility in the Age of COVID-19
Authors: Martin Susan , Bergmann Jonas
Published: January 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted global human mobility dynamics. This IMR Dispatch examines the historical, bidirectional links between pandemics and mobility and provides an early analysis of how they unfolded during the first nine months of the COVID-19 emergency. Results show, first, that international travel restrictions to combat the spread of the coronavirus are not a panacea in and of themselves. Second, our analysis demonstrates that the pandemic, government responses, and resulting economic impacts can lead to the involuntary immobility of at-risk populations, such as aspiring asylum-seekers or survival migrants. In a similar fashion, stay-at-home measures have posed dire challenges for those workers who lack options to work from home, as well as for migrants living in precarious, crowded circumstances. Moreover, global economic contraction has increased involuntary immobility by reducing both people’s resources to move and the demand for labor. Third, we show that people’s attempts to protect themselves from the virus can result in shifting patterns of mobility, such as increases in cross-border return migration and urban-to-rural movements. Drawing on international guidance for measures to combat pandemics and relevant frameworks on mobility, we propose approaches to alleviate the burden of travel restrictions on migrants and people aspiring to move, while still addressing the need to contain the pandemic and lessen its repercussions.
Open Door System and Endogenous Growth in Indian Economy: An Empirical Analysis on the Role of Human Capital and R&D in Explaining Industrial Productivity
Authors: Arjun K.  , Kumar Sanjay , Sankaran A. , Das Mousumi
Published: January 2021

The present study investigates the impact of human capital, knowledge capital which is a function of human capital, and real exchange rate scenario in explaining long-run industrial total factor productivity (TFP) from 1980 to 2015 on the theoretical basis of the open endogenous growth model. The variables employed in the contemporary study include manufacturing value added (MNVA) as industrial output measure, gross fixed capital formation (GFCF) as a measure of capital and labour input which is measured using employment data. Gross enrolment ratio (GER) is taken as a measure for human capital formation, expenditure on research and development (R&D) as a proxy for knowledge capital, and real exchange rate indicates global economic shocks. The study involves estimating TFP for Industrial Sector during the post-liberalization period by employing Cobb-Douglas production function. The ARDL bounds test technique for cointegration revealed long-run relation among the varying factors studied. The Toda-Yamamoto causality test concluded bi-directional causality running between, R&D expenditure and Industrial TFP which sends a strong signal to the policymakers for a well-framed long-term integrated approach for human & knowledge capital formation which will act as a strong impetus for manufacturing firms to come up in terms of augmenting production and productivity and expanding foreign market horizon.

JEL Classification: D24, E2, J24
Pre-competition body mass loss characteristics of Brazilian jiu-jitsu competitors in the United Kingdom
Authors: White Tyler , Kirk Christopher
Published: January 2021

Background:

Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling-based combat sport in which competitors engage in pre-competition acute ‘weight’ loss (AWL) and rapid ‘weight’ loss (RWL) to achieve the body mass (BM) required for their desired division. AWL/RWL practices of UK BJJ competitors have not previously been reported.

Aim:

Our aim in this study was to determine the prevalence, magnitude and stakeholder influences of AWL and RWL amongst BJJ participants in the United Kingdom (UK). A secondary aim was to explore whether there is any influence of time spent in the sport or competition frequency on AWL/RWL practices.

Methods:

In this study we used the rapid weight loss questionnaire (RWLQ) adapted for BJJ to determine the prevalence and magnitude of AWL/RWL in UK BJJ, the prevalence of methods used and the key stakeholder influences on these practices. As a secondary investigation we aimed to determine whether there was any effect of age starting BJJ on AWL/RWL.

Results:

Of 115 completed responses, 59% stated they performed AWL/RWL before competition. Mean BM loss for this competition was 1.9 ± 3.8 kg (2.3 ± 4.6%), with 34% of participants starting BM loss 3–7 days prior and 16% starting 0–2 days prior. Methods used tend to be achieving calorie deficit via exercise and diet rather than hypohydration, with little advice from formally qualified personnel. Participants who perform AWL/RWL started training (BF10 = 199, d = .72) and competing (BF10 = 107, d = .68) in BJJ younger than those who do not perform AWL/RWL.

Conclusions:

AWL/RWL is prevalent in UK BJJ, but not at the magnitude of other combat sports or countries. Though negative effects of extreme hypohydration are unlikely, there may be a higher chance of eating disorders in BJJ, particularly due to the young age of AWL/RWL commencement.
Macromarketing, the Indispensable Discipline
Authors: Shultz Clifford J. , Wilkie William L.
Published: January 2021

The guest-editors introduce the Ruby Anniversary Issue of the Journal of Macromarketing. They provide an overview of the field, highlight the evolution and contributions of the Journal over the past 40 years, and share synopses of the articles and commentaries that comprise this special issue. Major themes addressed by contributors include the genesis and stages of the marketing field, including its origins in macromarketing and the various forces that necessitate a redoubled emphasis on macromarketing, today and in the future. All contributors explore fundamental issues pertaining to the interactions among markets, marketing and society. Some focus on particular periods; some examine timeless and timely subthemes, such as marketing systems, sustainability, globalization, societal well-being, marketing ethics and social justice, and marketing history. And some focus on the expanding reach, impact, perspective, and topics of macromarketing – the discipline’s capabilities to influence business, policy and consumption, to redress current and historical shortcomings and transgressions, and to help solve the most pressing challenges confronting humanity. Moving forward, those challenges also create opportunities. The type and systemic complexity of those challenges/opportunities, and the ubiquity of markets and marketing, make macromarketing indispensable to the sustainability of our world, and the well-being of its inhabitants.
Train Scheduling Method to Reduce Substation Energy Consumption and Peak Power of Metro Transit Systems
Authors: Jin Bo , Feng Xiaoyun , Wang Qingyuan , Sun Pengfei , Fang Qian
Published: January 2021

The rapid development of metro transit systems brings very significant energy consumption, and the high service frequency of metro trains increases the peak power requirement, which affects the operation of systems. Train scheduling optimization is an effective method to reduce energy consumption and substation peak power by adjusting timetable parameters. This paper proposes a train timetable optimization model to coordinate the operation of trains. The overlap time between accelerating and braking phases is maximized to improve the utilization of regenerative braking energy (RBE). Meanwhile, the overlap time between accelerating phases is minimized to reduce the substation peak power. In addition, the timetable optimization model is rebuilt into a mixed integer linear programming model by introducing logical and auxiliary variables, which can be solved by related solvers effectively. Case studies based on one of Guangzhou Metro Lines indicate that, for all-day operation, the utilization of RBE would likely be improved on the order of 23%, the substation energy consumption would likely be reduced on the order of 14%, and the duration of substation peak power would likely be reduced on the order of 66%.
Vancomycin Wrap for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery: Molecular Insights
Authors: Atherton Caroline M. , Spencer Simon J. , McCall Katy , Garcia-Melchor Emma , Leach William J. , Mullen Michael , Rooney Brian P. , Walker Colin , McInnes Iain B. , Millar Neal L. , Akbar Moeed
Published: January 2021

Background:

The use of the vancomycin wrap to pretreat the hamstring graft in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) has grown in popularity since it was first described in 2012 and has significantly reduced rates of postoperative infection. However, it remains unknown if this antibiotic treatment affects the molecular composition of the graft.

Purpose:

To establish whether treatment with vancomycin at 5 mg/mL, the most commonly used concentration, alters the molecular function of the hamstring graft in ACLR.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Surplus hamstring tendon collected after routine ACLR surgery was used for in vitro cell culture and ex vivo tissue experiments. Vancomycin was used at 5 mg/mL in RPMI or saline diluent to treat cells and tendon tissue, respectively, with diluent control conditions. Cell viability at 30, 60, and 120 minutes was assessed via colorimetric viability assay. Tendon cells treated with control and experimental conditions for 1 hour was evaluated using semiquantitative reverse transcription analysis, immunohistochemistry staining, and protein quantitation via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for changes in apoptotic, matrix, and inflammatory gene and protein expression.

Results:

Vancomycin treatment at 5 mg/mL significantly reduced tenocyte viability in vitro after 60 minutes of treatment ( P < .05); however, this was not sustained at 120 minutes. Vancomycin-treated tendon tissue showed no significant increase in apoptotic gene expression, or apoptotic protein levels in tissue or supernatant, ex vivo. Vancomycin was associated with a reduction in inflammatory proteins from treated tendon supernatants (IL-6; P < .05).

Conclusion:

Vancomycin did not significantly alter the molecular structure of the hamstring graft. Reductions in matrix protein and inflammatory cytokine release point to a potential beneficial effect of vancomycin in generating a homeostatic environment.

Clinical Relevance:

Vancomycin ACL wrap does not alter the molecular structure of the ACL hamstring graft and may improve graft integrity.
Brazilian Older People Hospitalized by COVID-19: Characteristics and Prognostic Factors in a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Santos Marquiony M. , Lucena Eudes E. S. , Bonfada Diego , Santos Aramis Costa , Vechi Hareton Teixeira , Lima Kenio C.
Published: January 2021

Objective:

Analyzing the survival of older people hospitalized due to COVID-19 in Brazil and identifying its main predictive factors for death.

Method:

This is a retrospective, multicenter cohort study, based on 20,831 records of hospitalizations of older people due to SARS-CoV-2 in Brazil. The observation period was from February 28 to May 18, 2020.

Results:

There was a reduced overall survival time of 47.70% (95% confidence interval [CI] = [46.72%, 48.67%]) in 10 days. The variables age, race, education, intensive care unit (ICU), region, day of hospitalization, time elapsed between the first symptom and hospitalization, and the municipality that provided assistance showed increased risk of death using the multiple Cox proportional-hazards model.

Conclusion:

These results emphasize the relevance of inequality and access to health services as determinants for the death of older people with COVID-19.
Older Adults’ Perceptions of a Church-Based Social Marketing Initiative to Prevent Falls Through Balance and Strength Classes
Authors: Clark Lauren , Thoreson Sallie , Goss Cynthia W. , Marosits Mark , Zimmer Lorena Marquez , Flattes Valerie , DiGuiseppi Carolyn
Published: January 2021

Despite evidence that balance and strength training and other multicomponent exercise classes reduce the risk and rate of falls and fall-related injuries, few older adults participate. To increase uptake of balance- and strength-based fall-prevention classes, we designed and implemented a social marketing program, delivered through churches. Diverse stakeholders in this social marketing initiative included class participants, instructors, church leaders and members, and public health and recreation partners. We used interpretive description to explore perceptions of the social marketing messages and the barriers and facilitators older church members encountered to balance-class enrollment and adherence. The results were three practical, clinically relevant thematic summaries of older adults’ experience. The marketing initiative succeeded in helping older adults hear about the classes, decide whether classes fit their lifestyle and needs, and continue attendance.
Environmentally friendly automated line for recovering aluminium and lithium iron phosphate components of spent lithium-iron phosphate batteries
Authors: Bi Haijun , Zhu Huabing , Zhan Jialin , Zu Lei , Bai Yuxuan , Li Huabing
Published: January 2021

Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries contain metals, toxic electrolytes, organic chemicals and plastics that can lead to serious safety and environmental problems when they are improperly disposed of. The published literature on recovering spent LFP batteries mainly focuses on policy-making and conceptual design. The production line of recovering spent LFP batteries and its detailed operation are rarely reported. A set of automatic line without negative impact to the environment for recycling spent LFP batteries at industrial scale was investigated in this study. It includes crushing, pneumatic separation, sieving, and poison gas treatment processes. The optimum retaining time of materials in the crusher is 3 minutes. The release rate is the highest when the load of the impact crusher is 800 g. An air current separator (ACS) was designed to separate LFP from aluminium (Al) foil and LFP powder mixture. Movement behaviour of LFP powder and Al foil in the ACS were analysed, and the optimized operation parameter (35.46 m/s) of air current speed was obtained through theoretical analysis and experiments. The weight contents of an Al foil powder collector from vibrating screen-3 and LFP powder collector from bag-type dust collector are approximately 38.7% and 52.4%, respectively. The economic cost of full manual dismantling is higher than the recovery production line. This recycling system provides a feasible method for recycling spent LFP batteries.
Refuse-derived fuel potential production for co-combustion in the cement industry in Algeria
Authors: Sakri Asma , Aouabed Ali , Nassour Abdallah , Nelles Michael
Published: January 2021

As in many developing countries, municipal solid waste (MSW) management is one of the most significant challenges facing urban communities in Algeria. The effective management of solid waste involves the application of various treatment methods, and technologies to ensure the protection of public health and the environment. This research work aimed to examine potential production and utilization of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) from MSW to be used as a substitute fuel in cement kilns in Algeria. After receiving the input waste, sieves were used to categorize MSW according to size. The waste fractions >80 mm were subjected to a drying process in an open-air area and had been turned periodically in order to increase the dry matter (DM). A cost study was performed to evaluate the environmental and economic savings of RDF utilization in the cement industry. At the end of the drying process, as a consequence of the waste moisture reduction, the low heating value was found to be 16 MJ kg−1, and the DM 87%. Concerning heavy metal content, their concentrations were within the limits set by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN)/TC 343 standardization. The chlorine content was around 0.37% to 0.80%. The feasibility study of adding RDF as a substitute fuel in the cement industry showed that when 15% of RDF is used, the RDF consumption will be 4.7 metric tonnes (Mt) h−1, which will save 4347.2 Nm3 h−1 of natural gas and 0.3 Mt h−1 in carbon dioxide emissions, with a net gas cost saving of 65 USD h−1.
Mitigating long-term emissions of landfill aftercare: Preliminary results from experiments combining microbial electrochemical technologies and in situ aeration
Authors: Pivato A , Raga R , Marzorati S , Cerminara G , Lavagnolo MC , Schievano A
Published: January 2021

Landfills still represent the main option for waste disposal in many parts of the world. Anyway, they often pose a significant pollution risk and contribute to potential environmental and human health impacts via gaseous and liquid (leachate) emission pathways if not properly managed. Some innovative technologies can help to reduce these emissions, such as in situ aeration and the application of microbial electrochemical technologies (METs). METs are an emerging field that open the possibility to control microbial reactions, enhancing electron flows from electron donors towards electron acceptors. To this end, several materials with different electrochemically-active properties are used, such as electrical conductivity, capacitance, surface electroactivity and charge. The present project named LA-LA-LAND (Landfill electron-Lapping for a LANDscape requalification) was aimed to apply METs to treat leachate-saturated zones in old landfills. A MET prototype was constructed using a granular anode (graphite) and a cylindrical air-cathode (electroactive biochar). The METs were integrated to three identical laboratory-scale landfill bioreactors coupled with the in situ aeration technique, while three control reactors run without MET. The maximum values of current and power density obtained were 0.015 A·m−2 and 0.00035 W·m−2. The influence of the MET system on the organic matter removal was evident in two reactors, where this technology was applied, with respect to the control ones: total organic carbon decreased on average 13%, while it reduced less than 5% in the control reactors. This preliminary experiment pointed out some critical aspects of MET configuration, such as the weakness of the cathode architecture, which was prone to be flooded by leachate, blocking the aeration flux.
The Psychometric Properties of the Measure of Adolescent Relationship Harassment and Abuse (MARSHA) With a Nationally Representative Sample of U.S. Youth
Authors: Rothman Emily F. , Cuevas Carlos A. , Mumford Elizabeth A. , Bahrami Eva , Taylor Bruce G.
Published: January 2021

This article describes a new instrument that assesses adolescent dating abuse (ADA) victimization and perpetration. The Measure of Adolescent Relationship Harassment and Abuse (MARSHA) is a comprehensive instrument that includes items on physical, sexual, and psychological ADA, as well as cyber dating abuse, social control, and invasion of privacy. Data for this study came from a population-based, nationally representative sample of adolescents ages 11 to 21 years old ( N = 1,257). Exploratory factor analysis was conducted for the victimization and perpetration versions of the MARSHA, and convergent and divergent validity were assessed using the Conflict in Adolescent Dating Relationships Inventory (CADRI) and the juvenile victimization questionnaire (JVQ), respectively. Results suggest that the MARSHA has good reliability and validity, and that each subscale had good internal consistency. The authors propose that the MARSHA may be a strong alternative to the CADRI or the conflict tactics scale (CTS) because it reflects contemporary forms of abuse, such as online harassment and pressure to send nude selfies, and the nonconsensual dissemination of sexually explicit images.
What is Cyberstalking? A Review of Measurements
Authors: Wilson Chanelle , Sheridan Lorraine , Garratt-Reed David
Published: January 2021

The absence of a widely accepted definition of cyberstalking has resulted in studies operationalizing it in various ways, reducing the comparability and generalizability of findings. The present work examined the most common behaviors and criteria used to operationalize cyberstalking within the quantitative literature. The definitions employed by the studies were evaluated in respect of (a) whether they included a minimum requirement for the number of times the behaviors needed to be repeated in order to be considered “cyberstalking”; (b) whether victim fear was required for the behaviors to be considered “cyberstalking”; (c) the timeframe within which the cyberstalking behavior needed to have occurred; and (d) the behaviors identified as indicating cyberstalking. The results demonstrated considerable variation in the specificity of criteria used. Of the 33 studies examined, 45% specifically defined a minimum number of behavioral repetitions required to classify the behaviors as “cyberstalking,” although there were some discrepancies in the number of behaviors specified across studies. Only 30% of studies included victim fear as a criterion and 70% of studies did not include specific timeframe requirements in which the behaviors needed to have occurred within. The number and description of behaviors included within scales used to measure “cyberstalking” varied widely. Some instruments utilized as many as 24 different items, whilst others identified cyberstalking through the use of two items. A series of recommendations are advanced aimed at providing criteria for defining and operationalizing cyberstalking that can be employed by future studies, with the ultimate aim of allowing greater comparability between results. From this a consistent knowledge base can be developed, and with it a deeper understanding of cyberstalking and how to counter it.
Omental wrap: Radiographic diagnosis confirmed surgically – Report of two cases in Grenada
Authors: Ogura Sanae , Bristol Germaine , Burchman Max , Fleary Linwald , Hosten Terron , Amerling Richard
Published: January 2021

Omental wrapping is a common cause of peritoneal catheter malfunction. This diagnosis should be confirmed by radiography before proceeding with surgical omentectomy. We report two cases of peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter outflow obstruction from our developing PD program in Grenada, in which contrast studies accurately diagnosed omental wrap, allowing for prompt surgical correction. In both cases, the contrast study indicated the presence of omental wrapping, confirmed at time of surgical correction. Radiographic features of omental wrap are distinctive, which allows for reliable differentiation from other causes of obstruction. Radiographic contrast study reliably diagnoses the cause of peritoneal catheter obstruction, permitting prompt diagnosis and treatment. This is vital for regions with limited access to haemodialysis.
Coupling effects of manufacturing error and flexible ring gear rim on dynamic features of planetary gear
Authors: Cao Zheng , Rao Meng
Published: January 2021

Manufacturing errors widely exist in and deteriorate the dynamic property of planetary gear train (PGT). To solve this problem, the ring gear is often designed with a thin rim to compensate for the effects of manufacturing errors via the elastic deflections of the rim. Existing dynamic models of the PGT only consider the effects of either the elasticity of the rim of the ring gear or the manufacturing errors. The coupling effects of manufacturing errors and the flexible ring gear are ignored. To understand the dynamic behaviors of the PGT better, a dynamic model of the PGT coupled with typical manufacturing error and flexible ring gear is developed in this study. The tooth contact analysis of the ring-planet mesh, which is calculated based on the potential energy method and uniformly curved Timoshenko beam theory, is studied using the influence coefficient method. A numerical algorithm is proposed to solve the integrated dynamic equations of the PGT. Calculated results show that the dynamic features of the PGT are complex, and the load sharing characteristic is improved when the flexible ring gear is incorporated.
Energy loss and emissions of engine compression rings with cylinder deactivation
Authors: Turnbull Robert , Dolatabadi Nader , Rahmani Ramin , Rahnejat Homer
Published: January 2021

A novel integrated multi-physics assessment of the piston top compression ring of an internal combustion engine under normal operation mode, as well as subjected to cylinder deactivation is carried out. The methodology comprises ring-liner thermo-mixed hydrodynamics, elastodynamics of ring, as well as combustion gas blow-by and emissions. Therefore, the analysis provides prediction of ring-liner contact’s energy losses and gas power leakage across the piston and ring crevices, as well as the resulting emissions. Cylinder deactivation (CDA) technology reduces the unburnt fuel entering the ring-pack crevices, as well as the emissions. It is also shown that the frictional and gas leakage power losses are exacerbated under CDA by as much as 20%. Although this is much lower than the potential gains in fuel usage when using CDA. The optimisation of the piston compression ring would provide further fuel efficiency and improved emissions, an issue which has not hitherto received the attention which it deserves. The in-depth analysis has also shown that CDA reduces the predicted CO, NOx and HC emissions by nearly as much as 8.5%, 10% and 8.7%, respectively.
Effects of struts profiles and skewed angles on the aerodynamic performance of gas turbine exhaust diffuser
Authors: Dong Yuxuan , Li Zhigang , Li Jun , Song Liming
Published: January 2021

The strut structure directly affects the flow field characteristics and aerodynamic performance of the gas turbine exhaust diffuser. The effects of the strut profiles and strut skewed angles on the aerodynamic performance of the exhaust diffuser at different inlet pre-swirls were numerically investigated using three-dimensional Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes(RANS) and Realizable k-ε turbulence model. The numerical static pressure recovery coefficient of the exhaust diffuser is in agreement with the experimental data well. The reliability of the numerical method for the exhaust diffuser performance analysis was demonstrated. Exhaust diffusers with four kinds of vertical strut profiles obtain the highest static pressure recovery coefficient at the inlet pre-swirl of 0.35. The similar static pressure recovery coefficient of exhaust diffusers with four kinds of vertical strut airfoils are observed when the inlet pre-swirl is less than 0.48. The static pressure recovery coefficient of exhaust diffusers with vertical b1 and b2 struts are higher than that with the a1 and a2 struts when the inlet pre-swirl is greater than 0.48. At the inlet pre-swirl of 0.35, The static pressure recovery coefficient of the exhaust diffuser with the a1 strut decreases with the increasing of the strut skewed angles. The static pressure recovery coefficient of the exhaust diffuser with the b1 strut increases with the increasing of the strut skewed angles, and the static pressure recovery coefficient increases by 3.6% compared with the vertical design when the skewed angle of b1 strut is 40[Formula: see text]. At the inlet pre-swirl of 0.64. The static pressure recovery coefficient of the exhaust diffuser with the a1 strut increases by 8.7% compared with the vertical design when the skewed angle of a1 strut is greater than 20°. In addition, the static pressure recovery coefficient of the exhaust diffuser with the b1 strut decreases by 3.8% compared with the vertical design when the skewed angle of b1 strut is 40°. The method to improve the aerodynamic performance of the exhaust diffuser by appropriate increase the strut maximum thickness and design the strut skewed angle is proposed in this work.
Information needs of breast cancer patients and how educational status influence their information needs in Ghana
Authors: Boadi Benedicta , Banji George Tesilimi , Adzobu Patrick , Okyere Stephen
Published: January 2021

Health information literacy plays a critical role in self-management practices among patients living with chronic health conditions. However, there are limited studies on information needs among breast cancer patients in Ghana. This paper therefore investigated the information needs of women living with breast cancer in Ghana and how educational status influenced their information needs. The study was conducted in two health facilities in Accra, Ghana (37 Military Hospital and Sweden Ghana Medical Centre). A total of 75 breast cancer patients were conveniently selected from the two health facilities for the study. The instrument used to elicit relevant data for this study was a questionnaire using the survey design. Data was analysed descriptively. The findings of the study revealed that the information needs of the breast cancer patients investigated were centred mainly around treatment and management information and less around preventive information. The patients also ranked diagnostic information as their highest need, followed by physical care information, treatment information, psychosocial information and disease-specific information in that order. Patients with higher education reported higher information need on all the five domains compared to those with lower education. The study therefore recommended that management of health facilities make health information literacy an integral component of their treatment and management of breast cancer.
Albumin-to-globulin ratio (AGR) as a potential marker of predicting lupus nephritis in Chinese patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Liu Xin-Ran , Qi Yuan-Yuan , Zhao Ya-Fei , Cui Yan , Wang Xiao-Yang , Zhao Zhan-Zheng
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To evaluate a potential role of albumin-to-globulin ratio (AGR) in the development of lupus nephritis (LN) and determine the potential to use AGR as a marker for future LN in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients.

Methods

194 newly diagnosed SLE patients without renal impairment were followed. The clinical data were collected and analyzed at the time of initial diagnosis of SLE and the end of follow-up. We compared baseline characteristics between those who did or did not develop LN on follow-up. Univariate and multivariate Cox hazard analysis were used to identify predictors of lupus nephritis.

Results

Among the 194 newly diagnosed SLE patients without renal impairment, 26 (13.40%) patients were diagnosed with LN during a median follow-up of 53.87 months. On univariate Cox analysis, patients with the history of alopecia, higher SBP, lower AGR, lower CRP, lower C3, lower C4, higher anti-dsDNA Ab, presence of ANA homogeneous patterns or higher SLEDAI had an increased probability of developing LN. In a multivariate model, the history of alopecia (adjust hazard ratio, aHR = 3.614, 95%CI 1.365-9.571 P = 0.010), lower AGR (aHR = 6.968, 95%CI 1.873-25.919, P = 0.004), lower CRP (aHR = 4.230, 95%CI 1.591-11.247, P = 0.004) and higher level of anti-dsDNA (aHR = 2.675, 95%CI 1.008-7.093, P = 0.048) were independently associated with an increased risk of developing LN after adjusting for covariates.

Conclusion

Our findings indicated that SLE patients with low AGR, low CRP, high anti-dsDNA and the history of alopecia were more likely to develop LN in the course of SLE. AGR shown the greatest hazard for developing LN among them, it may be a strong predictor.
A picture is not always worth a thousand words: The visual quality of photographs affects the effectiveness of interpretive signage for science communication
Authors: Zhu Lei , Davis Lloyd S. , Carr Anna
Published: January 2021

Photographs are widely used to visualise science. However, the influence of visual quality of photographs on the effectiveness of science communication is often disregarded and seldom tested. This study examines how the visual quality of photographs affects science communication on interpretive signage within Xixi National Wetland Park, China. Results show that a high-quality photograph on the signage significantly increased the following affective and cognitive aspects of communication: (1) a visitor’s intention to read the signage, (2) enjoyment of reading the interpretive information, (3) understanding and (4) recall of the information on the signage. This study offers empirical evidence for the benefits of using high-quality photographs to visualise science. To improve the effectiveness of science communication in interpretive products, we argue that the quality of the selected photographs should be considered seriously.
Identity inferences: Implicatures, implications and extended interpretations
Authors: Clark Billy
Published: January 2021

This article considers how ideas from relevance-theoretic pragmatics can be applied in understanding the construction of identity in interaction, while presupposing that consideration of ideas about identity can make a significant contribution to pragmatic theories. While previous work on pragmatics has focused on the construction and performance of identity, this has not been much discussed in work from a relevance-theoretic perspective. For illustration, the article refers mainly to a video recording of a UK House of Commons Select Committee session on drug addiction. While the video provides considerable relevant data about identity construction, the article does not develop a detailed analysis of the video or the extracts it focuses on. Instead, it uses them to argue for the usefulness of relevance-theoretic ideas in understanding identity and impression management. The ideas focused on are that communication can be stronger or weaker (i.e. it can be more or less clear that particular assumptions are being intentionally communicated), that there is no clear cut-off point between very weakly communicated implicatures and non-communicated implications, that interpretation generally involves going beyond what the communicator intended to derive the addressee’s own conclusions, that the effects of communicative interaction include more than the derivation of new assumptions and that adjustments to ‘cognitive environments’ (the sets of assumptions which are accessible to individuals at particular times) can continue after interactions take place. These ideas can be useful in a number of areas including in understanding identity in general, literary identities, attitudes to language varieties, the production of communicative acts and the teaching of spoken and written communication.
Effect of electroacupuncture on the kisspeptin system in a pubertal rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Wang Zhi , Yang Li , Dong Hui , Dong Haoxu , Cheng Ling , Yi Ping , Huang Dongmei
Published: January 2021

Objective:

To explore the effects and mechanism of action of electroacupuncture (EA) in a rat model of pubertal polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Methods:

Female offspring of Sprague-Dawley rats receiving dihydrotestosterone (DHT) during pregnancy (days 16–19), as a model of prenatal androgenization, were divided randomly into three groups: model group (M), EA group, and sham acupuncture (SA) group (n = 8 each). A normal (N) group comprising female offspring of healthy pregnant rats not receiving DHT (n = 8) was added. EA was administered at CV6 and bilateral SP6/ST36 with 2 Hz frequency and 2 mA intensity. SA consisted of superficial needling at different locations without electrical stimulation.

Results:

EA improved the disturbed estrous cycles, while it could not be concluded that SA was effective in this respect. EA improved ovarian morphology including the number of corpora lutea and area of the ovary, whereas SA did not. However, both EA and SA attenuated the increased luteinizing hormone and decreased estradiol and gonadotropin-releasing hormone levels in the serum of PCOS model rats. Levels of testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and progesterone did not significantly differ between groups. EA and SA alleviated the upregulation of kisspeptin protein and mRNA levels in the hypothalamus and kisspeptin protein level in the arcuate nucleus (ARC). No differences were found between groups in protein or mRNA expression of dynorphin (DYN) or neurokinin B (NKB) in the hypothalamus. Co-expression of kisspeptin, NKB, and DYN were observed in ARC. The GnRH level in the median eminence decreased and could be rescued by EA and SA. Intriguingly, kisspeptin levels in the granulosa cells of the ovary decreased in the model group and could be rescued by EA but not SA. Levels of kisspeptin, NKB, and DYN protein and mRNA in the ovary did not differ between any groups.

Conclusion:

Both EA and SA appeared to improve symptoms of PCOS at puberty by modulating the kisspeptin system in the hypothalamus. EA also had an effect on ovarian kisspeptin expression and a more comprehensive effect with respect to improving PCOS at puberty than SA.
The self-healing investigations on fiber-reinforced polymer composites through a novel compartmented microcapillary approach
Authors: Jain Deepak , Gupta Aviral , Mahajan Sumit
Published: January 2021

This paper presents the experimental self-healing investigations on fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites using a novel in-situ healing approach. During the preparation of polymer composites, the monomer Dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) was embedded as the healing agent. The compartment hollow glass microcapillaries were used to serve the localized distribution of the healing agent. To determine the viability of the proposed microcapillary approach, several flexural tests were conducted to initiate the damage and subsequent realization of self-repair activity. The healing was initiated through the polymerization of DCPD in the presence of Grubb’s catalyst (first and second generation). Once healed, the specimens were tested cyclically to evaluate the recovery of flexural strength. A post-failure healing efficiency as high as 72% has been observed. SEM and XRD investigations have been conducted for the microstructural investigations. These investigations support the potential applications of the proposed concept of embedding the bulk with the microcapillaries.
Stress-dependent generalized Prandtl–Ishlinskii hysteresis model of a NiTi wire with superelastic behavior
Authors: Yoong HouPin , Su ChunYi , Yeo KiamBeng
Published: January 2021

The extremely useful superelastic behavior of NiTi has been poorly explored because of the limited number of models that can describe the complete hysteretic behavior of NiTi, including a superelastic condition that strongly depends on the applied stress. This paper presents the development of a stress-dependent phenomenological model of NiTi by modifying the existing generalized Prandtl–Ishlinskii (GPI) model. The parameters of the envelop function of the GPI model’s play operator are reformulated as quadratic functions of the applied stress. The stress-dependent GPI model can satisfactorily predict the output strain of a NiTi #6 wire under temperature and stress variation.
Unmet Care Needs and Related Factors of Spouses of Liver or Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Chang Yu-Hsuan , Lai Yeur-Hur , Lee Po-Huang , Tsai Meng-Kun , Shun Shiow-Ching
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to (1) explore the unmet care needs of spouses of liver or kidney transplant recipients, (2) compare the unmet care needs, depression, and anxiety levels of transplant recipients and their spouses, and (3) identify factors related to spouses’ unmet care needs. A cross-sectional study was conducted using purposive sampling from transplant outpatient departments at a medical center. Ninety-one liver or kidney transplant recipient–spouse dyads were recruited. Most unmet needs for dyads were involved in the psychological needs and health system and service needs domains. Spouses had significantly higher unmet needs, anxiety, and depression than recipients did. The significant factors related to the spouses’ unmet needs included being male, having higher anxiety, and whose partners had higher unmet needs. Health care professionals must attend to the needs of both recipients and spouses. Providing disease-specific information and resources to spouses who potentially had higher unmet needs is strongly suggested.
Perioperative Management of Cleft Lip Repair: A Meta-Analysis and Clinical Practice Guideline
Authors: Ranzer Matthew , Daniele Edward , Purnell Chad A.
Published: January 2021

Objective:

Few studies have focused on perioperative management of cleft lip repair. We sought to evaluate the available data on this topic to create evidence-based clinical guidelines.

Design:

Systematic review, meta-analysis.

Methods:

A PubMed search was performed focusing on perioperative management of cleft lip repair. Studies were included if they included comparative data. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed according to preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Main Outcome Measures:

Systematic review of literature regarding wound closure, postoperative arm restraints, perioperative antibiotics, outpatient or ambulatory surgery, or feeding restrictions postoperatively.

Results:

Twenty-three articles met inclusion criteria after initial screening of 3103 articles. This included 8 articles on wound closure, 2 on postoperative restraints, one on perioperative antibiotics, 6 on outpatient surgery, and 6 on postoperative feeding. Meta-analysis could be performed on dehiscence rates with postoperative feeding regimen and readmission rates after outpatient versus inpatient lip repair. There were few studies with low risk of bias. Outpatient cleft lip repair does not increase readmission (odds ratio [OR]: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.28-3.07). Allowing postoperative breastfeeding or bottle-feeding does not increase dehiscence (OR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.19-1.95). There was no evidence of publication bias.

Conclusion:

Within the limitations of available data, there is no evidence of a clearly superior closure material. The evidence does not support use of postoperative arm restraints. The evidence does not support the use of preoperative nasal swabs for antibiotic guidance. With careful patient selection, outpatient cleft lip repair appears safe. The evidence supports immediate breastfeeding or bottle-feeding after cleft lip repair.