bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weed seedling emergence in contrasting fodder crop systems following 30 years of cultivation in the lowlands of Northern Italy
Authors: Borrelli Lamberto , Pecetti Luciano
Published: March 2020

Five fodder crop systems of different intensity (ranging from a double annual crop of Italian ryegrass + silage maize to a permanent meadow) were adopted for 30 years in the lowlands of Northern Italy under two input levels, differing mainly in their provision of organic fertiliser (manure). Herbicides were used in the maize crops included in all systems, except the meadow. After 30 years, the weed seedbank of all systems and input levels were assessed by the seedling emergence technique on soil samples from each plot. The cropping systems determined the abundance and composition of the weed assembly. Relatively few, frequent species made up the majority of the emerged seedlings in all systems, and there was no relationship between the total number of emerged seedlings and the mean number of species recorded in the different systems. Arabidopsis thaliana and Oxalis corniculata were abundant in the annual double crop and in the 3‐ and 6‐year rotations that also comprised the annual double crop. These weeds, however, were unlikely to represent a major threat to the crops, due to their vigour and growth period. The permanent meadow tended to greater weed biodiversity than the other systems. The application of manure favoured the seedbank of species such as Lolium multiflorum, Digitaria sanguinalis and A. thaliana. Weed communities in the different systems were mainly determined by herbicide application, (through the ability of weeds to avoid its effects, determined by the weed life history and emergence period) and manure application (with its possible dual effect of spreading weed seeds and favouring nitrogen‐responsive weeds).
Sequential Time-Optimal Algorithm for Extended Path Tracking Problem
Authors: Csorvási Gábor , Vajk István
Published: March 2020

This paper presents a fast and easily implementable path tracking algorithm for robots. Usually, for a path tracking problem, the goal is to move the robot on a predefined path, while the joint velocities and accelerations are kept within their limits. This paper deals with the extended case, constraining the forces applied to the objects at the manipulator. First, a problem with a special set of constraints is presented, and a sequential solver method is formulated. The presented sequential solver algorithm has significant computational benefits compared to the direct transcription approach. Then, a practical example is introduced where the proposed algorithm can be applied. At last, the algorithm is validated by real-life experimental results with a six degrees-of-freedom robotic arm.
Coupled Dynamics for Noncontact Piezoelectric Motor Modulated by Electromagnetic Force
Authors: Wang Tingting , Xing Jichun , Xu Lizhong
Published: March 2020

A coupled dynamics model for a noncontact piezo-electric motor modulated by electromagnetic force is presented in this paper. Coupled dynamic equations of the motor system are derived. From the equations, the natural frequency, and modal function equations of the motor system are provided. Considering the nonlinear constitutive relation of a piezo-electric stack, nonlinear coupled dynamic equations of the motor system are established, and the nonlinear vibration frequency equation of the motor system is obtained. The linear and nonlinear coupled natural frequencies, modal shapes, and forced responses of the motor system are studied using the obtained equations. Modal shapes of the motor system are then classified, and the deviation between the nonlinear vibration frequency and linear natural frequency of the motor system and its variation with system parameters are analyzed. The research provides a useful reference for design and analysis of the dynamic behavior of the motor system.
Dynamic Impedance Monitoring for Large Diameter Vessel Sealing Using Bipolar Electrosurgery
Authors: Li Xiaoran , Li Wei , Yang Che-Hao , Chen Roland K.
Published: March 2020

Vessel sealing using bipolar electrosurgery is becoming a common practice in modern operating rooms. Despite all the advantages such as faster operation, less bleeding, and shorter postsurgery recovery time, side effects including sticking, charring, and rebleeding still occur, leading to increased surgery time and sometimes fatal complications. Tissue impedance during the electrosurgical process has been used to determine the electrical power of the process. However, little has been done to understand the dynamic tissue impedance and its effectiveness in monitoring the vessel sealing process. Moreover, the samples used in previous studies all had small diameters of 2–5 mm. In this study, an experimental setup was developed to perform vessel sealing tests using large-diameter blood vessel samples with mimicking blood flow. The tissue impedance during the heating process was obtained. Burst pressures after sealing were measured. A finite element simulation model was developed to understand the dynamic impedance behavior. It is seen that the tissue impedance increases rapidly in the beginning of the heating process and remains at a level that is several orders of magnitude higher than the initial value. This rapid impedance increase indicates protein denaturing, thus can be used to monitor the electrosurgical vessel sealing process. An impedance-based monitoring algorithm was developed, with which a burst pressure at least twice the normal human systolic blood pressure was achieved.
System Performance Analysis of Overlap Coupled Control Units
Authors: Liu Mingsheng , Wang Jinrong
Published: March 2020

The overlap coupled control unit is widely used in hotels, dormitory buildings, hospitals, and office buildings. Energy simulation models are developed to assess changes in energy consumption and humidity levels due to changes in various system parameters. The simulation results show that the energy consumption of the overlap unit is 3 to 5 times higher than the optimal energy consumption. To improve the energy performance, the following measures are recommended: (1) use the variable air volume technique; (2) balance total airflow based on actual peak load; and (3) replace overlap with humidistat. Quick open valves are also found to improve relative humidity control.
Performance of the SES/Boeing Dish Stirling System
Authors: Stone Kenneth W. , Leingang Eric , Rodriguez Gerry , Paisley Jonathan , Nguyen Jean-Paul , Mancini Dr. Thomas , Nelving Hans
Published: March 2020

The operation of Stirling Energy Systems’ Stirling Dish system and components, originally built and tested during the mid 1980s by McDonnell Douglas [Lopez, 1993] and operated in the Department of Energy Dish Engine Critical Components (DECC) Program since 1998 is presented in this paper. The operating time, performance, and system availability are presented. The data show that the Kockums Stirling engine has accumulated over 8,200 hours of on-sun operating time, has generated over 115 MWh of electrical energy, and has accumulated more than 15,000 hours of test cell operating time since April of 1998 in the DECC Program. Power measurements indicate that the system performs the same as it did in the 1980s. The daily energy plots show net energy efficiency between 24% to 27% when the daily energy available exceeds 600 kWh. System availability data during the 1998/1999 testing period shows that the system was available over 94% of the time when the insolation exceeded 300 W/m2.

The data presented herein focuses on three power conversion units (PCUs) and two solar concentrators, which are tested in various combinations and as individual system components. During later parts of the testing cycle, one of the engines, PCU 209, included newly manufactured Stirling engine components (regenerators and coolers) as part of a manufacturing cost reduction program.
Hybrid PV/Fuel Cell System Design and Simulation
Authors: El-Shatter Thanaa F. , Eskandar Mona N. , El-Hagry Mohsen T.
Published: March 2020

In this paper, a hybrid Photovoltaic (PV)-fuel cell generation system employing an electrolyzer for hydrogen generation is designed and simulated. The system is applicable for remote areas or isolated loads. Fuzzy regression model (FRM) is applied for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) to extract maximum available solar power from PV arrays under variable insolation conditions. The system incorporates a controller designed to achieve continuous supply power to the load via the PV array or the fuel cell, or both according to the power available from the sun. The simulation results show that the system can run without power shortage for more than four days even in case of zero insolation.
Applicability of Stand-Alone Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Home Systems in Kenya
Authors: Ogoli David Mwale , Goswami D. Yogi
Published: March 2020

The Kenyan photovoltaic industry has been growing steadily in recent years. Since 1990 more than 2.5 megawatts of photovoltaic capacity have been sold in Kenya and 60% of these sales have gone into home systems as part of new energy supplies. The demand for energy in Kenya exceeds the supply and for this reason renewable energy is regarded a priority in the energy sector. A solution to this problem lies in four areas: technology development, environmental protection, energy economics and socio-cultural adjustments. This paper discusses the state of current research and applications of stand-alone building-integrated PV home systems by looking at the possibilities and limitations in this developing country. Houses need a PV panel-surface area of about 36m2 to meet basic energy needs.
Prediction of Building Integrated Photovoltaic Cell Temperatures
Authors: Davis Mark W. , Fanney A. Hunter , Dougherty Brian P.
Published: March 2020

A barrier to the widespread application of building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) is the lack of validated predictive performance tools. Architects and building owners need these tools in order to determine if the potential energy savings realized from building integrated photovoltaics justifies the additional capital expenditure. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) seeks to provide high quality experimental data that can be used to develop and validate these predictive performance tools.

The temperature of a photovoltaic module affects its electrical output characteristics and efficiency. Traditionally, the temperature of solar cells has been characterized using the nominal operating cell temperature (NOCT), which can be used in conjunction with a calculation procedure to predict the module’s temperature for various environmental conditions. The NOCT procedure provides a representative prediction of the cell temperature, specifically for the ubiquitous rack-mounted installation. The procedure estimates the cell temperature based on the ambient temperature and the solar irradiance. It makes the approximation that the overall heat loss coefficient is constant. In other words, the temperature difference between the panel and the environment is linearly related to the heat flux on the panels (solar irradiance).

The heat transfer characteristics of a rack-mounted PV module and a BIPV module can be quite different. The manner in which the module is installed within the building envelope influences the cell’s operating temperature. Unlike rack-mounted modules, the two sides of the modules may be subjected to significantly different environmental conditions.

This paper presents a new technique to compute the operating temperature of cells within building integrated photovoltaic modules using a one-dimensional transient heat transfer model. The resulting predictions are compared to measured BIPV cell temperatures for two single crystalline BIPV panels (one insulated panel and one uninsulated panel). Finally, the results are compared to predictions using the NOCT technique.
Discussion of Strategies for Mounting Photovoltaic Arrays on Rooftops
Authors: Barkaszi Stephen F. , Dunlop James P.
Published: March 2020

The mechanical attachment of photovoltaic (PV) arrays to rooftops presents a number of unique and challenging issues for system designers and installers. With a resurgence of roof-mounted PV installations due to increasing duel costs and decreasing PV system prices, the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) has accelerated its investigations of array mounting strategies, with the objectives of identifying key performance and cost parameters from a systems engineering perspective. Two principal classifications can be defined for rooftop PV array mounting systems: building-integrated (BIPV) and building-attached (BAPV) or standoff designs. The various attachment methods within these categories each have pros and cons that affect the labor and cost associated with the install and the system performance. An overview and assessment of some existing rooftop PV array attachment methods or mounting approaches, and their advantages and disadvantages with respect to key design criteria are presented to assist designers and installers in the selection of the appropriate method for a given project.
Pulsed Gas Feeding for Stoichiometric Operation of a Gas-Solid Vortex Flow Solar Chemical Reactor
Authors: Kräupl Stefan , Steinfeld Aldo
Published: March 2020

The thermodynamic implications of conducting the solar combined ZnO-reduction and CH4-reforming under stoichiometric and non-stoichiometric conditions are examined. For a solar flux concentration ratio of 5000 and for a solar cavity-receiver operating at 1300 K, the solar thermal conversion efficiency is 55% for a stoichiometric molar ratio of ZnO and CH4, and decreases by 50% when using excess methane by a factor 10 over the stoichiometric molar amount. A technical solution for operating a gas-solid vortex-flow solar reactor under stoichiometric conditions was established by using a pulsed-feed of methane to carry out the particles of ZnO. Using this technique, nearly stoichiometric operation was demonstrated with a prototype reactor in a high-flux solar furnace, thereby opening up a means for efficient conversion of sunlight into chemical fuels.
Visual analog of the acoustic amplitude envelope benefits speech perception in noise
Authors: Yuan Yi , Wayland Ratree , Oh Yonghee
Published: March 2020

The nature of the visual input that integrates with the audio signal to yield speech processing advantages remains controversial. This study tests the hypothesis that the information extracted for audiovisual integration includes co-occurring suprasegmental dynamic changes in the acoustic and visual signal. English sentences embedded in multi-talker babble noise were presented to native English listeners in audio-only and audiovisual modalities. A significant intelligibility enhancement with the visual analogs congruent to the acoustic amplitude envelopes was observed. These results suggest that dynamic visual modulation provides speech rhythmic information that can be integrated online with the audio signal to enhance speech intelligibility.
Sediment sources and transport by the Kahiltna Glacier and other catchments along the south side of the Alaska Range, Alaska
Authors: Matmon A. , Haeussler P.J. , Team ASTER
Published: March 2020

Erosion related to glacial activity produces enormous amounts of sediment. However, sediment mobilization in glacial systems is extremely complex. Sediment is derived from headwalls, slopes along the margins of glaciers, and basal erosion; however, the rates and relative contributions of each are unknown. To test and quantify conceptual models for sediment generation and transport in a simple valley glacier system, we collected samples for 10Be analysis from the Kahiltna Glacier, which flows off Denali, the tallest mountain in North America. We collected angular quartz clasts on bedrock ledges from a high mountainside above the equilibrium line altitude (ELA), amalgamated clast samples from medial moraines, and sand samples from the river below the glacier. We also collected sand from nine other rivers along the south flank of the Alaska Range. In the upper catchment of the Kahiltna drainage system, toppling, rockfall, and slab collapse are significant erosional processes. Erosion rates of hundreds of millimeters per thousand years were calculated from 10Be concentrations. The 10Be concentrations in amalgamated samples from medial moraines showed concentrations much lower than those measured from the high mountainside, a result of the incorporation of thick, and effectively unexposed, blocks into the moraine, as well as the incorporation of material from lower-elevation nearby slopes above the moraines. The 10Be sediment samples from downstream of the Kahiltna Glacier terminus showed decreasing concentrations with increasing distance from the moraine, indicating the incorporation of material that was less exposed to cosmic rays, most likely from the glacier base as well as from slopes downstream of the glacier. Taken together, 10Be concentrations in various samples from the Kahiltna drainage system indicated erosion rates of hundreds of millimeters per thousand years, which is typical of tectonically active terrains. We also measured 10Be concentrations from river sediment samples collected from across the south flank of the Alaska Range. Calculation of basinwide weighted erosion rates that incorporated hypsometric curves produced unrealistically high erosion rates, which indicates that the major source of sediment was not exposed to cosmic rays and was primarily derived from the base of glaciers. Moreover, the apparently high erosion rates suggest that parts of each drainage system are not in erosional steady state with respect to cosmogenic isotope accumulation.
Identifying the predictors of avoidable emergency department attendance after contact with the NHS 111 phone service: analysis of 16.6 million calls to 111 in England in 2015–2017
Authors: Egan Mark , Murar Filip , Lawrence James , Burd Hannah
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To measure the frequency of patients making avoidable emergency department (ED) attendances after contact with NHS 111 and to examine whether these attendances can be predicted reliably.

Design

Analysis of 16 563 946 calls made to 111, where each call was linked with a record of whether the patient attended ED within 24 hours.

Setting

All regions of England from March 2015 to October 2017.

Participants and data

Our main regression model used a sample of 10 954 783 calls, each with detailed patient-level information.

Main outcome

Whether patients made an unadvised, non-urgent type 1 ED (‘avoidable') attendance within 24 hours of calling 111.

Results

Of 16 563 946 calls to 111, 12 894 561 (77.8%) were not advised to go to ED (ie, they were advised to either attend primary care, attend another non-ED healthcare service or to self-care). Of the calls where the patient was not advised to go to the ED, 691 783 (5.4%) resulted in the patient making an avoidable ED attendance within 24 hours. Among other factors, calls were less likely to result in these attendances when they received clinical input (adjusted OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.51 to 0.53) but were more likely when the patient was female (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.08) or aged 0–4 years (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.33 to 1.35).

Conclusions

For every 20 calls where 111 did not advise people to attend the ED, 1 resulted in avoidable ED attendance within 24 hours. These avoidable attendances could be predicted, to a certain extent, based on call characteristics. It may be possible to use this information to help 111 call handlers identify which callers are at higher risk of these attendances.
Cohort profile: social well-being and determinants of health study (SWADES), Kerala, India
Authors: M D Saju , Nukala Lovakanth , Shekhar Rameela , Gomez Keith , Varghese Bindiya M , Benny Anuja Maria , Scaria Lorane , Prabhu Sphoorthi , Jotheeswaran Amuthavalli Thiyagarajan
Published: March 2020

Purpose

In response to the need for more advanced and longitudinal data concerning chronic diseases, behavioural risk factors and social support systems in India, the SWADES (Social Well-being and Determinants of Health Study) was established.

Participants

At baseline, 997 adults aged 30 years and over, living in the semi-urban area were interviewed in their home.

Findings to date

Data collected included self-reports of demographic details, health, depression, morbid conditions and healthcare utilisation, risk factors (physical, behavioural and social) of chronic diseases, common mental disorders, out-of-pocket expenditure, social support network, social cohesion, disability, education and wealth. Objective data for hypertension, diabetes and cognitive function were also collected.

Future plans

The first annual follow-up interviews were completed in 2019; the subsequent annual follow-up will be conducted until 2030. The SWADES data are held at the International Centre for Consortium Research in Social Care (ICRS), Rajagiri College of Social Science, Kerala, India. Procedures for data access, information on collaborations, publications and other details can be found at (http://icrs.in).
Pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions to prevent hypersensitivity reactions of non-ionic iodinated contrast media: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Umakoshi Hiroyasu , Nihashi Takashi , Shimamoto Hironori , Yamada Takehiro , Ishiguchi Hiroaki , Takada Akira , Hirasawa Naoki , Ishihara Shunichi , Takehara Yasuo , Naganawa Shinji , Davenport Matthew , Terasawa Teruhiko
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Iodinated contrast media are commonly used in medical imaging and can cause hypersensitivity reactions, including rare but severe life-threatening reactions. Although several prophylactic approaches have been proposed for severe reactions, their effects remain unclear. Therefore, we aim to review systematically the preventive effects of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions and predictors of acute, hypersensitivity reactions.

Methods and analysis

We will search the PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases from 1 January 1990 through 31 December 2019 and will examine the bibliographies of eligible studies, pertinent review articles and clinical practice guidelines. We will include prospective and retrospective studies of any design that evaluated the effects of pharmacological and non-pharmacological preventive interventions for adverse reactions of non-ionic iodinated contrast media. Two assessors will independently extract the characteristics of the study and intervention and the quantitative results. Two independent reviewers will assess the risk of bias using standard design-specific validity assessment tools. The primary outcome will be reduction in acute contrast media-induced hypersensitivity reactions. The secondary outcomes will include characteristics associated with the development of contrast media-induced acute hypersensitivity reactions, and adverse events associated with specific preventive interventions. Unique premedication regimens (eg, dose, drug and duration) and non-pharmacological strategies will be analysed separately. Average-risk and high-risk patients will be considered separately. A meta-analysis will be performed if appropriate.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is not applicable, as this will be a secondary analysis of publicly available data. The results of the analysis will be submitted for publication in a peer reviewed journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019134003
Development and usability testing of HEARTPA♀N: protocol for a mixed methods strategy to develop an integrated smartphone and web-based intervention for women with cardiac pain
Authors: Parry Monica , Dhukai Abida , Clarke Hance , Bjørnnes Ann Kristin , Cafazzo Joseph A , Cooper Lynn , Harvey Paula , Katz Joel , Lalloo Chitra , Leegaard Marit , Légaré France , Lovas Mike , McFetridge-Durdle Judith , McGillion Michael , Norris Colleen , Parente Laura , Patterson Rose , Pilote Louise , Pink Leah , Price Jennifer , Stinson Jennifer , Uddin Akib , Victor J Charles , Watt-Watson Judy , Auld Carol , Faubert Christine , Park Deborah , Park Marianne , Rickard Beatrice , DeBonis Vincenza Spiteri
Published: March 2020

Introduction

More women experience cardiac pain related to coronary artery disease and cardiac procedures compared with men. The overall goal of this programme of research is to develop an integrated smartphone and web-based intervention (HEARTPA♀N) to help women recognise and self-manage cardiac pain.

Methods and analysis

This protocol outlines the mixed methods strategy used for the development of the HEARTPA♀N content/core feature set (phase 2A), usability testing (phase 2B) and evaluation with a pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT) (phase 3). We are using the individual and family self-management theory, mobile device functionality and pervasive information architecture of mHealth interventions, and following a sequential phased approach recommended by the Medical Research Council to develop HEARTPA♀N. The phase 3 pilot RCT will enable us to refine the prototype, inform the methodology and calculate the sample size for a larger multisite RCT (phase 4, future work). Patient partners have been actively involved in setting the HEARTPA♀N research agenda, including defining patient-reported outcome measures for the pilot RCT: pain and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). As such, the guidelines for Inclusion of Patient-Reported Outcomes in Clinical Trial Protocols (SPIRIT-PRO) are used to report the protocol for the pilot RCT (phase 3). Quantitative data (eg, demographic and clinical information) will be summarised using descriptive statistics (phases 2AB and 3) and a content analysis will be used to identify themes (phase 2AB). A process evaluation will be used to assess the feasibility of the implementation of the intervention and a preliminary efficacy evaluation will be undertaken focusing on the outcomes of pain and HRQoL (phase 3).

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was obtained from the University of Toronto (36415; 26 November 2018). We will disseminate knowledge of HEARTPA♀N through publication, conference presentation and national public forums (Café Scientifique), and through fact sheets, tweets and webinars.

Trial registration number

NCT03800082.
Knowledge and perspectives of the new National Cervical Screening Program: a qualitative interview study of North Queensland women—‘I could be that one percent’
Authors: Nagendiram Archana , Bidgood Rachel , Banks Jennifer , Heal Clare
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To investigate women’s understanding and attitudes towards the National Cervical Screening Program (NCSP) and to explore methods to improve screening participation.

Design

Semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted through convenience and snowball sampling. Thematic analysis occurred using the interpretivist framework.

Setting

A private general practice in North Queensland.

Participants

Women between the ages of 18 and 74 who attended the general practice were eligible to participate. Fourteen women between 20 and 58 years old were interviewed.

Results

Participants were concerned that the new NCSP would miss cancer due to longer screening intervals and reliance on primary human papilloma virus (HPV) testing. They believed that young women are at increased risk of cervical cancer, due to perceived HPV vaccine ineffectiveness and parent objection to vaccination. Most participants were not agreeable to self-sampling and preferred their doctor to perform screening. Personal and practitioner beliefs influenced a woman’s screening participation. Personal factors include being healthy for themselves and their family, previous abnormal smears and family history of cancer. Emphasis was placed on feeling ‘comfortable’ with their practitioner which included patient rapport and gender preference. Proposed methods to improve cervical screening included education programmes, advertising campaigns, general practitioner interventions and improving accessibility.

Conclusions

It is apparent that women are hesitant about the new NCSP. However, when provided with additional information they were more amenable to the changes. This highlights the need to improve awareness of cervical screening and the new NCSP.
Determinants of overweight/obesity among reproductive age group women in Ethiopia: multilevel analysis of Ethiopian demographic and health survey
Authors: Yeshaw Yigizie , Kebede Sewnet Adem , Liyew Alemneh Mekuriaw , Tesema Getayeneh Antehunegn , Agegnehu Chilot Desta , Teshale Achamyeleh Birhanu , Alem Adugnaw Zeleke
Published: March 2020

Objective

Overweight/obesity among women is associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, postpartum haemorrhage, low birth weight, congenital malformation and neonatal deaths. Although the magnitude of overweight and obesity among the reproductive age group women is a common problem in Ethiopia, there are limited studies that determine the associated factors of overweight and obesity at the national level. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the determinant factors of overweight/obesity among reproductive age group women in Ethiopia.

Design

Cross-sectional study design.

Setting

Ethiopia.

Participants

Non-pregnant women aged 15–49 years.

Primary outcome

Overweight/obesity.

Methods

The present study used the Ethiopia Demographic Health Survey (EDHS) data for 2016. A total of 10 938 non-pregnant reproductive age group women were included in the analysis. Both bivariable and multivariable multilevel logistic regression were performed to determine the determinants of overweight and obesity among women in Ethiopia. The OR with a 95% CI was estimated for potential determinants included in the final model.

Results

Those women with secondary education (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.48, 1.01, 2.18), higher education (AOR=1.78, 1.13, 2.81), richer (AOR=1.85, 1.15, 2.98) and richest wealth index (AOR=3.23, 1.98, 5.29), urban residence (AOR=4.46, 2.89, 6.87), married (AOR=1.79, 1.21, 2.64), widowed (AOR=2.42, 1.41, 4.15), divorced (AOR=1.84, 1.13, 3.00), aged 25–34 years (AOR=2.04, 1.43, 2.89), 35–44 years (AOR=2.79, 1.99, 3.93) and 45–49 years (AOR=2.62, 1.54, 4.45) had higher odds of developing overweight and obesity.

Conclusion

Women with higher education level, high wealth status, older age, formerly married and those urban dwellers had higher odds of overweight and obesity. Therefore, regular physical activity, reducing consumption of fat/energy-dense food as well as modifying the mode of transportation is recommended.
The dying parent and dependent children: a nationwide survey of hospice and community palliative care support services
Authors: Cockle-Hearne Jane , Reed Elizabeth , Todd Jennifer , Ream Emma
Published: March 2020

Background

Annually, across the world a substantial number of dependent children experience the death of a parent through life-limiting illness. Without support, this has long-term implications for children’s emotional, social and physical well-being, impacting on health and social care services globally. Limited information exists on how service providers are meeting family needs when a parent with dependent children is dying.

Aim

To determine the bereavement support provided to families with dependent children by UK hospices before and after a parent’s death.

Design

A 23-item, cross-sectional, web-based survey of adult UK hospices. Closed and open-ended questions were asked about the features of support provided; open-ended response was sought to a question about the challenges faced by hospices in delivering support. Descriptive and non-parametric statistics and framework analysis were used to analyse the data.

Results

197 hospices were invited to participate. Response rate was 66% (130/197). More types of support were provided after, than before, parental death (mean 6.36/5.64, z=−5.767, p<0001). Twenty-two per cent of hospices reported no formal processes for asking or documenting the presence of dependent children. Volunteers were an underused resource before parental death. Four themes characterised challenges in delivering support for families: emotional difficulties for families; practical and social difficulties for families; funding/resources; and staff training/numbers.

Conclusions

Family needs are not consistently being met when a parent is dying. Areas for development include: enhanced systems to record when patients have dependent children; flexible approaches to support vulnerable families; staff training to help communication with families and management of their own fears of making the situation worse. Effective educational interventions and service developments to better support staff, parents and children are needed.
Petrology, age, and tectonic setting of the rapakivi-bearing Margaree pluton, Cape Breton Island, Canada: evidence for a Late Devonian posttectonic cryptic silicic-mafic magma chamber
Authors: Sombini dos Santos Gabriel , Barr Sandra M. , White Chris E. , van Rooyen Deanne
Published: March 2020

The Margaree pluton extends for >40 km along the axis of the Ganderian Aspy terrane of northern Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. The pluton consists mainly of coarse-grained megacrystic syenogranite, intruded by small bodies of medium-grained equigranular syenogranite and microgranite porphyry, all locally displaying rapakivi texture. The three rock types have similar U–Pb (zircon) ages of 363 ± 1.6, 364.8 ± 1.6, and 365.5 ± 3.3 Ma, respectively, consistent with field and petrological evidence that they are coeval and comagmatic. The rare earth elements display parallel trends characterized by enrichment in the light rare earth elements, flat heavy rare earth elements, moderate negative Eu anomalies, and, in some cases, positive Ce anomalies. The megacrystic and rapakivi textures are attributed to thermal perturbation in the magma chamber caused by the mixing of mafic and felsic magma, even though direct evidence of the mafic magma is mainly lacking at the current level of exposure. Magma evolution was controlled by fractionation of quartz, K-feldspar, and Na-rich plagioclase in molar proportions of 0.75:0.12:0.13. The chemical and isotopic (Sm–Nd) signature of the Margaree pluton is consistent with the melting of preexisting continental crust that was enriched in heat-producing elements, likely assisted by intrusion of mantle-derived mafic magma during Late Devonian regional extension. The proposed model involving magma mixing at shallow crustal levels in a cryptic silicic-mafic magma chamber during post-Acadian extension is consistent with models for other, better exposed occurrences of rapakivi granite in the northern Appalachian orogen.
A study on the adhesion property of damped aluminum laminate for automotive components
Authors: Bae Sung-Youl , Cho Hyoung-Chan , Ahn Hyun-Gu , Bae Gi-Man , Kim Yun-Hae
Published: March 2020

The purpose of this study is to derive the design specifications of damped aluminum laminate, applied as a component of electric vehicle, and to investigate the factors affecting the material’s characteristics. Sixty six percent light-weight component from damped aluminum laminate compared to conventional steel design was fabricated by means of finite element analysis and material tests. Various specimens with differences in resin thickness, resin type, and surface treatment agent material were prepared, while peel strength of the laminates was analyzed. It was confirmed that adhesive strength was improved as the thickness of the resin increased. Moreover, the adhesive strength of the laminate by thermosetting resin was higher than that of the panel with applied thermoplastic. Various kinds of material tests were carried out to ascertain the effect of moisture and temperature on the adhesion characteristics of the laminates. A decrease of over 30% in bonding strength due to moisture and temperature were observed from the evaluations.
A Multistable Generalized Meminductor with Coexisting Stable Pinched Hysteresis Loops
Authors: Yuan Fang , Deng Yue , Li Yuxia
Published: March 2020

A multistable local active meminductor emulator is proposed in this paper. The mathematical model of the emulator circuits is established. Different periodic stimuli are applied to the presented emulators and coexisting stable pinched hysteresis loops are obtained. The results obtained by experimental equips are consistent with the theoretical analysis, which indicates that the proposed emulators can work as a meminductor.
A Survey of Tuning Parameter Selection for High-Dimensional Regression
Authors: Wu Yunan , Wang Lan
Published: March 2020

Penalized (or regularized) regression, as represented by lasso and its variants, has become a standard technique for analyzing high-dimensional data when the number of variables substantially exceeds the sample size. The performance of penalized regression relies crucially on the choice of the tuning parameter, which determines the amount of regularization and hence the sparsity level of the fitted model. The optimal choice of tuning parameter depends on both the structure of the design matrix and the unknown random error distribution (variance, tail behavior, etc.). This article reviews the current literature of tuning parameter selection for high-dimensional regression from both the theoretical and practical perspectives. We discuss various strategies that choose the tuning parameter to achieve prediction accuracy or support recovery. We also review several recently proposed methods for tuning-free high-dimensional regression.
Benign Recurrent Intrahepatic Cholestasis (BRIC): An African Case Report
Authors: Salyani Adil , Barasa Linda , Rajula Allan , Ali Sayed K.
Published: March 2020

Benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis (BRIC) is a rare disorder characterised by recurrent episodes of cholestatic jaundice. First described in 1959, BRIC has been reported in patients all over the world including of African descent. Here, we describe a case of a 21-year-old male with recurring episodes of cholestatic jaundice where we diagnosed BRIC and terminated an episode with rifampicin. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of BRIC diagnosed in Africa.
Research Progress on Interlaminar Failure Behavior of Fiber Metal Laminates
Authors: Chen Yizhe , Wang Yichun , Wang Hui
Published: March 2020

Fiber metal laminate (FML) is a kind of lightweight material with excellent mechanical properties combining advantages of metal laminates and fiber reinforced composites. It has been widely used in the aerospace and transportation fields and is especially used as structural material such as aircraft skins, wings, and tails. However, under complex service conditions, interlaminar failure in FMLs greatly reduced mechanical properties of the material, even leading to serious economic and safety disasters. The failure and destruction of important structural parts of aircraft and other manned transportation vehicles are extremely unsafe for people. Therefore, it is of great significance to summarize the interlaminar failure behavior of FMLs and find ways to avoid these defects. This review paper is a collection of various researches done by many groups, which systematically discuss the interlaminar failure behaviors and their control methods of FMLs. The application status of several common FMLs in aircraft structures was given. The common interlaminar failure modes of FMLs and the testing and evaluation methods of interlaminar properties were stated. The failure mechanisms and the corresponding control methods were analyzed. Finally, the future developments of FMLs were also discussed by the authors. Through this review article, readers can obtain new research progress about the control method, the mechanism and future development on the failure behavior of FMLs in a more efficient way.
Efficacy Analysis of Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy Combined with PEEK Rods for Giant Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Gao Xiang , Tang Kaiying , Xia Yu , Zhang Xun , Wang Keran , Yan Zhengjian , Du Yu , Chen Liang
Published: March 2020

Objective. This study describes a randomized controlled trial that assesses percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) combined with a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) rod in patients with GLDH (herniation affecting 50% of the sagittal diameter of the spinal canal) and reports the 2-year follow-up outcome. Methods. In all, 243 patients were randomly assigned to undergo PELD or PELD combined with a PEEK rod by generating random numbers with a random number generator. Clinical outcome data, including the numerical rating scale (NRS), were used to assess the patients’ back and leg pain, while the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) was used to quantify pain and disability. Imaging data included intervertebral disc height (IDH), range of motion (ROM), and modified Pfirrmann grades. Results. At the final follow-up, the NRS for back and leg pain and the ODI scores were significantly decreased in both groups. The NRS for back pain and the ODI scores in the PELD + PEEK group (1.32 ± 0.70, 14.10 ± 4.74) were better than those in the PELD group (1.91 ± 0.69, 16.93 ± 4.33) (P<0.05). The IDH of the PELD + PEEK group (10.54 ± 1.62) was significantly higher than that in the PELD group (9.98 ± 1.90) (P=0.025). The ROM of the PELD + PEEK group (2.39 ± 0.90) was significantly lower than that of the PELD group (9.49 ± 1.62) (P<0.001). Conclusion. For symptomatic patients with GLDH, both PELD and PELD combined with a PEEK rod showed good efficacy. However, the long-term effect of PELD combined with a PEEK rod is better than that of PELD alone. Moreover, PELD combined with a PEEK rod can effectively reduce the recurrence rate. Maximum benefit can be gained if we adhere to strict selection criteria for PELD combined with a PEEK rod.
Distinguishing between HPV-Associated Metastatic Anal Squamous Cell Cancer and HPV-Associated Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Sorscher Steven
Published: March 2020

The histology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) of primary and metastatic diseases from a human papilloma virus- (HPV-) related anal squamous carcinoma (ASCC) would typically demonstrate the same histology as an HPV-related oropharyngeal squamous carcinoma (OPSCC). However, determining whether a site of squamous cell carcinoma represents distant metastatic ASCC versus a metastatic HPV-related metastasis from an OPSCC to a regional lymph node carries profound prognostic and therapeutic implications. A patient with a history of locally advanced ASCC treated with standard concurrent radiation therapy and chemotherapy in 2015 is described. In 2018, an enlarged supraclavicular lymph node was excised demonstrating squamous cell carcinoma and radiographic staging revealed no other areas suspicious for malignancy. Direct laryngoscopy with operating telescope and biopsies demonstrated squamous cell carcinoma at the tongue base. Described here are assays that might be considered in distinguishing between whether a focus distant from a previously identified ASCC represents metastatic disease or instead a separate primary HPV-related cancer.
Nauclea latifolia Sm. Leaf Extracts Extenuates Free Radicals, Inflammation, and Diabetes-Linked Enzymes
Authors: Iheagwam Franklyn Nonso , Israel Emmanuel Nsedu , Kayode Kazeem Oyindamola , DeCampos Opeyemi Christianah , Ogunlana Olubanke Olujoke , Chinedu Shalom Nwodo
Published: March 2020

This study was carried out to assess the in vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic effects of Nauclea latifolia (Sm.) leaf extracts. Ethanolic (NLE) and aqueous (NLA) extract of N. latifolia leaves were prepared and assessed for their anti-inflammatory activity, antioxidant potential, α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities, and the mechanism of enzyme inhibition in vitro using standard established methods. From the results, phytochemicals such as flavonoids, phenolics, glycosides, and tannins were detected in both extracts of N. latifolia with NLE having a significantly (p<0.05) higher phytochemical content. NLE displayed significantly (p<0.05) better total antioxidant capacity, reducing power, 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, and hydrogen peroxide radical scavenging activities. For anti-inflammatory activities, 70.54±2.45% albumin denaturation inhibition was observed for NLE while 68.05±1.03% was recorded for NLA. Likewise, 16.07±1.60 and 14.08±1.76% were obtained against hypotonic solution and heat-induced erythrocyte haemolysis, respectively, for NLE while 20.59±4.60 and 24.07±1.60% were respective NLA values. NLE (IC50: 4.20±0.18 and 1.19±0.11 mg/mL) and NLA (IC50: 11.21±0.35 and 2.64±0.48 mg/mL) α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities were dose-dependent with uncompetitive and competitive inhibition elicited, respectively, by the extracts. A significant positive association (p<0.01 and 0.05) was identified between antioxidant activity and carbohydrate-metabolising enzyme inhibitory activity. The obtained result suggests N. latifolia leaf could serve as an alternative candidate for managing diabetes mellitus due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory association with diabetes-linked enzymes.
Is Acupuncture Another Good Choice for Physicians in the Treatment of Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome? Review of the Latest Literature
Authors: Li Junjun , Dong Liang , Yan Xuhong , Liu Xiaozhang , Li Ying , Yu Xujun , Chang Degui
Published: March 2020

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS). A search of PUBMED, EMBASE, Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science, Chinese Biomedicine Literature (CBM), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wang-Fang Database, Chinese Scientific Journal Database (VIP), and other available resources was made for studies (up to February 2019). Searches were limited to studies published in English and Chinese. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) related to the efficacy and/or safety of acupuncture for CP/CPPS were included. Two investigators independently evaluated the quality of the studies. A total of 11 studies were included, involving 748 participants. The results revealed that compared with sham acupuncture (MD: −6.53 [95% CI: −8.08 to −4.97]) and medication (MD: −4.72 [95% CI: −7.87 to −1.56]), acupuncture could lower total NIH-CPSI score more effectively. However, there are no significant differences between acupuncture and sham acupuncture in terms of IPSS score. In terms of NIH-CPSI voiding domain subscore, no significant differences were found between acupuncture and medication. Compared with sham acupuncture (OR: 0.12 [95% CI: 0.04 to 0.40) and medication (OR: 3.71 [95% CI: 1.83 to 7.55]), the results showed favorable effects of acupuncture in improving the response rate. Acupuncture plus medication is better than the same medication in improving NIH-CPSI total score and NIH-CPSI pain domain subscore. In conclusion, the evidence suggests that acupuncture may be an effective intervention for patients with CP/CPPS. However, due to the heterogeneity of the methods and high risk of bias, we cannot draw definitive conclusions about the entity of the acupuncture’s effect on alleviating the symptoms of CP/CPPS. The adverse events of acupuncture are mild and rare.