bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Content Analysis of South African Sunday Newspaper Coverage of the Durban and Copenhagen Climate Change Conferences
Authors: Mulaudzi Rendani , Kioko Joseph
Published: July 2020

Since the first United Nations climate change conference in 1995, newspapers have been vital in increasing coverage of climate change. Amidst growing number of events around climate change, the influence of international climate change conferences in newspaper coverage of climate change has not been fully interrogated in post-apartheid South Africa. This study aims to discover how three major South African Sunday broadsheet newspapers represented the Copenhagen conference (COP15) in 2009 and the Durban conference (COP17) in 2011. It used a national sample for the years 2009 and 2011, covering the City Press, The Sunday Independent and Sunday Times. The study carried out quantitative analysis of 58 articles published in the three leading Sunday newspapers between 01 January and 31 December. The direct involvement of South Africa on the Copenhagen and Durban climate change negotiations had an influence in the level of newspaper coverage. The frequency of articles published per month increased in November and December for all the years of interest. The dominantly reported main topics associated with COP are greenhouse gas emissions and the Kyoto Protocol. Both COP15 and COP17 were discussed frequently at a local level - domestic geographical scope. Overall, the article identified that South African print media is not consistent in the representation of COP. In order to better the reporting of international climate talks, print media has to be actively involved in integrative and collaborative engagement with COP relevant stakeholders.
Reflection and Self-reflection Regarding Competencies: Comparative View of University Teachers and Their Students
Authors: Tomšíková Kateřina , Smékalová Lucie , Slavík Milan
Published: July 2020

In connection with the global trend, the dominant feature of the reforms in the education system moves towards the professional development of teachers. The article deals with competencies of a university teacher, which the teacher acquires and develops throughout his/her career. Competencies are necessary for qualified and professional performance. The significant part of the paper is devoted to the competency which exceeds all the others, the self-reflective competence. The authors of the article describe evaluation process at the Czech University of Life Sciences. Within this process opinions of students and teachers of the teaching process and implementation of the university teachers' key competencies are analysed. The aim of the enquiry was to find whether teachers prove competence as an excellent capability, eventually which of them are difficult to implement. From the results it is evident that the teachers evaluated themselves in all items above average. By highest rate they evaluated managing of the chosen parts of general educational competence, educational and psycho didactic competence, social, psychosocial and communicative competence. Based on the comparison with students, teachers have a tendency to overestimate themselves. That implies that it is necessary to lead some of the university teachers to understand the importance of self-reflection and to use efficient self-reflection methods.
Physical Activities Management System as a Part of Lifelong Learning
Authors: Matošková Petra , Kovář Karel , Süss Vladimír
Published: July 2020

The paper is designed as a review article on the issue of physical activities management system in the Czech Republic from the ontogenetic point of view. Obesity and overweight represent serious issues not only in the Czech Republic, but also abroad. One of the causes of these issues is a lack of physical activity. We explain the term physical literacy which is closely connected to active lifestyle. We characterize the system of influencing physical activities in particular age groups based on milestones in school education. We focus on educational institutions and their general objectives and curricular documents. We chose an example of lifelong physical activities management system from abroad (Canada) and we compare it with possibilities and system in the Czech Republic.
Calculation of jet characteristics from hydrocode analysis
Authors: Sweitzer Justin C. , Peterson Nicholas , Hill Scott
Published: July 2020

The penetration performance of a shaped charge jet is affected strongly by factors such as straightness, stretch rate, and breakup time. Straightness is related to manufacturing tolerances, assembly techniques, and system integration features. Stretch rate and breakup time are controllable features of charge design. A higher stretch rate is desirable for short standoff performance. The stretch rate is easily altered by a change of explosive or modification of the angle with which the detonation wave sweeps the liner surface, however, an increased stretch rate generally results in a decreased breakup time. Many of the recent gains in shaped charge performance have been made possible by increasing the effective breakup time of the jet.

Several models exist for calculating breakup time. They include analytic models, such as Chou & Carleone’s dimensionless strain rate model, and empirical or semi-empirical models such as Walsh’s theory and those proposed by Pearson, et al. These models can be applied to raw hydrocode calculation data and used to determine a Jet Characterization (JC) file. The JC file can then be used to perform further calculations, such as Penetration Versus Stand Off (PVSO) curves.

This paper details adaptation of the Chou & Carleone model for predicting breakup time using hydrocode data. The hydrocode is used to determine the physical parameters of the jet which are then extrapolated back to a virtual origin for breakup time calculation. This results in a model that is design independent, relying on hydrocode determination of jet variables. The model implementation will be discussed, and comparisons of predicted jet characteristics will be made to test data for several charge geometries.
Effects of EOS and constitutive models on simulating copper shaped charge jets in ALEGRA
Authors: Doney Robert L. , Niederhaus John H. J. , Fuller Timothy J. , Coppinger Matthew J.
Published: July 2020

Metallic shaped charge jets (SCJ) have been studied for many decades across multiple communities for applications ranging from military warheads to earth penetrators for accessing oil-rich areas [1]. Researchers have had varied success in modeling these jets using simulation codes such as CTH, ALEGRA, and ALE3D. Recently, a large amount of work has been performed at the US Army Research Lab investigating the behavior of jets with increasingly sophisticated experimental diagnostics. Advances in computational resources, code enhancements, and material models have allowed us to model jets and probe uncertainties caused by algorithms, equations of state (EOS), constitutive models, and any of the available parameters each one provides. In this work we explore the effects that various EOS and constitutive models have on the development and characteristics of a 65-mm diameter, 2D copper SCJ using the Sandia National Laboratories’ multiphysics hydrocode, ALEGRA [2]. Specifically, we evaluate the tabular SESAME 3320 [3], 3325 [4-5], and 3337 [6] EOS models, analytic EOS (ANEOS) 3331 [7], as well as the Johnson-Cook (JC) [8], Zerilli-Armstrong (ZA) [9], Preston-Tonks-Wallace (PTW) [10], Steinberg-Guinan-Lund (SGL) [11-12], and Mechanical Threshold Stress (MTS) [13] constitutive models. Note that while the SGL model supports rate-dependence, there is no current characterization for copper, thus we are using rate-independent version. We do not consider the MieGrüneisen equation of state here as we expect parts of the jet to be near or cross into melt.
Towards a Better Understanding of Shaped Charge Jet Formation and Penetration
Authors: Price David W. , Harris Ernest J. , Daykin Frances G.
Published: July 2020

JeMMA, a set of relatively simple shaped-charge devices, has been designed in order to generate suitable data on jet formation, break-up and penetration for code validation purposes. The JeMMA Phase 1 device incorporated a copper liner and six of these shaped charges were manufactured as a technology demonstrator and fired in a special shaped charge facility in December 2016. The radiographic results obtained from the JeMMA Phase 1 and 2 devices, along with data reproducibility between trials, was excellent. This report gives an overview of the Phase 1 and 2 trials, including device design, the results of the firings conducted in Switzerland and details of the subsequent 2D and 3D hydrocode modelling carried out at AWE. The agreement between the data and both 2D and 3D modelling of the experiments is very pleasing, but highlights where further work is required. These JeMMA experiments will enhance the body of relevant data required to provide the validation of the hydrocode materials and modelling methodologies and enable us to better model the jetting threats of our experiments and have higher confidence in the results of the modelling.
Study on phase transformation in Tin under dynamic compression
Authors: Chauvin Camille , Zucchini Frédéric , de Barros David Palma
Published: July 2020

We propose to study experimentally the polymorphic transition of Tin under dynamic compression. These transformations have been investigated for a long time through usual velocity measurements under shock from ambient condition. At CEA Gramat we have improved our understanding of such phase transformations through both experimental and theoretical means.

Experimental velocity measurements have long suggested that non equilibrium behavior and kinetics is an important part of the dynamic compression response of materials undergoing phase transformations. Empirical kinetic models can in many cases reproduce the experimental velocity profiles, but without clearly identifying the nature of the transition.

For nearly two decades, the CEA Gramat operates several gas guns for shock loading and high pulsed power (HPP) drivers dedicated to Isentropic Compression Experiments (ICE) up to several GPa. These experimental devices and associated diagnostics (velocimetry and temperature measurements and x-ray diffraction experiments) help to begin to study kinetics under dynamic transition in a more rigorous manner. We have used these experiments to examine various compression paths and have used the results to improve equation of state (EOS) models incorporated in our numerical codes. The latter can be used to run simulations starting with ambient initial conditions, then load metallic materials from various non ambient initial temperatures. This can significantly extend the range of our studies into previously unexplored thermodynamic paths.

We propose to describe our preheating devices for gas gun experiments and our HPP driver, and to present our preliminary results on shock loading and on isentropic compression at various initial temperatures, to explore the phase diagram of Tin.

In addition, we present the design of promising testing on X-ray diffraction under shock to help to develop a more physical kinetic model relying on nucleation and growth mechanisms, which are implemented in our continuum level codes.
Eulerian Hydrocode Modeling of a Dynamic Tensile Extrusion Experiment
Authors: Burkett M. W.
Published: July 2020

Eulerian hydrocode simulations using the Mechanical Threshold Stress (MTS), Zerilli-Armstrong (Z-A), and Johnson Cook (J-C) flow stress models were performed to provide insights into dynamic tensile extrusion (DTE) experiments with copper (Cu) and tantalum (Ta). The extrusion of Cu and Ta projectiles was simulated with an explicit, two-dimensional Eulerian continuum mechanics hydrocode and compared with data to determine if this extrusion concept is a useful indirect hydrocode material strength model evaluation experiment. The data consisted of high-speed images of the extrusion process, photon Doppler velocimetry (PDV) to measure the projectile velocity history and die transit time, dynamic temperature measurements of the extruded material, recovered extruded samples, and post-test metallography. The hydrocode was developed to predict large-strain and high-strain-rate loading problems. The code features a high-order advection algorithm, material interface tracking scheme, and van Leer monotonic advection-limiting algorithm. The strength models were utilized to evolve the flow stress (σ) as a function of strain, strain rate, and temperature. Average strain rates on the order of 104 s−1 and plastic strains exceeding 300% were predicted in the extrusion of copper at impact velocities between 400–450 m/s, while plastic strains exceeding 800% were predicted for Ta. The predicted and measured deformation topologies, projectile velocity profiles and die transits times, plastic strains, and temperatures were qualitatively compared. The flow stress distributions predicted by the three strength models were also compared for one experiment. Finally, the feasibility of using DTE to evaluate hydrocode strength models will be discussed.
Comparison of the Hydrodynamic Ram Caused by Single and Two Projectiles Impacting Water-filled Containers
Authors: Ji Yangziyi , Li Xiangdong , Zhou Lanwei , Lan Xiaoying
Published: July 2020

When high-velocity projectiles penetrate an enclosed fluid-filled structure, the projectiles transfer the kinetic energy to the surrounding structure through the fluid and cause excessive structural damage. This process is referred to as a hydrodynamic ram (HRAM) [1]. The HRAM can be divided into five phases[1]: penetration, shock, drag, exit, and cavity oscillation. The HRAM phenomenon has been studied analytically [2,3], experimentally [4–7] and numerically [8–10]. However, few studies have been performed on the hydrodynamic ram caused by multiple penetrators. In the present work, a previously validated numerical model was used to analyze the differences of hydrodynamic rams caused by one and two projectiles impacting water-filled containers.
Modeling Fragmentation within Pagosa Using Particle Methods
Authors: Culp David B. , Ma Xia
Published: July 2020

The mechanics involved in shock physics often involves materials undergoing large deformations being subjected to high strain rates and temperature variations. When considering high-velocity impacts and explosions, metals experience plastic flow, dynamic failures and fragmentation that are often too complex for a Lagrangian method, such as the finite element method, to properly resolve. Conversely, Eulerian methods are simple to setup, but often result in numerical diffusion errors [1]. These unpleasantries can be skirted by using an alternative technique that incorporates a blend of these aforementioned methods. FLIP+MPM (FLuid Implicit Particle + Material Point Method) employs Lagrangian points to track state quantities associated with materials as strength, as well as conserved quantities, such as mass. Concurrently, an Eulerian grid is used to calculate gradient fields and incorporate an algorithm that carries out the hydrodynamics [2]. By incorporating the FLIP+MPM method into Los Alamos National Laboratory’s Pagosa hydrodynamics code, massively parallel architectures may be employed to solve such problems as those including fragmentation, plastic flow and fluid-structure interaction. This paper will begin with a mathematical description of the FLIP+MPM technique and describe how it fits into Pagosa. After a description of the implementation, the capabilities of this numerical technique are highlighted by simulating fragmentation as a result of high velocity impacts and explosions. Several strength and damage models will be exercised to demonstrate the code’s flexibility. Comparison of the different models’ fragment size distributions are given and discussed.
Mesoscale Modeling of Al/Ni Composites
Authors: Smith Grant , Bardenhagen Scott , Nairn John
Published: July 2020

Granular composite formulations involving metal/metal [1,2] (intermetallic) reactions have been investigated for a number of applications. Interfaces between metallic particles have been attributed particular importance due to their ability to form localized hotspots, where the local temperature of the granular composite may significantly exceed the global temperature, leading to a localized reaction initiation that may initiate a global reaction.3 Understanding of the response of metal/metal granular composites to mechanical loading can be greatly facilitated by mesoscale modeling in which the underlying composite structure of the components is clearly resolved. For the Al/Ni composite discussed in this study, this involves explicitly resolving Al and Ni particles and intermetallic (Al/Al, Ni/Ni and Al/Ni) interfaces. In this work we utilize an idealized but realistic model for an Al/Ni composite using EOS, constitutive and interfacial models informed by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The Al/Ni microstructures are subjected to uniaxial compressive loading up to 30 GPa, shock loading up to 70 GPa (2000 m/s) and impact loading at 2000 m/s, and the mechanical and thermal response of the composite are analyzed.
Timing Delay Analysis of the Auxiliary Pump Technique to Improve the Performance of an Implosion-Driven Hypervelocity Launcher
Authors: Wang Mafa , Huneault Justin , Higgins Andrew J. , Liu Sen
Published: July 2020

In order to understand the irreproducibility of the auxiliary pump technique, an interior ballistic solver taking into account reservoir collapse has been used to simulate the performance of launchers. Launchers with different detonation velocities, explosive lengths, and timing delays (the difference between the initiation time of the pump tube explosives and auxiliary pump explosives) of the auxiliary pump have been calculated. The effective timing delay region, which could achieve a velocity gain larger than 1.0 km/s, has been discussed. And its influence factors, such as the detonation velocity of auxiliary pump explosives and the inner-wall velocity of the reservoir, have been analyzed. Results show that the velocity gain decreases with an increase in the timing delay and increases with the increasing length of explosives. The effective timing delay region is about 2μs and depends weakly on the detonation velocity and the length of explosives when using the same explosives for the pump tube and the reservoir. Nevertheless, low detonation velocity of the reservoir explosives and high inner-wall velocity could improve the effective timing delay region, but the maximum effective timing delay region cannot exceed 10μs, which is not easily accomplished experimentally. Therefore, the auxiliary pump technique should not be a very reproducible technique.
Hypervelocity impact of PrintCast A356/316L composites
Authors: Poole Lauren L. , Gonzales Manny , French Matthew R. , Yarberry William A. , Moustafa Abdel R. , Cordero Zachary C.
Published: July 2020

Shielding elements used to protect against micrometeoroids and orbital debris (MMOD) (e.g., Whipple shields, multi-shock shields, stuffed Whipple shields) typically incorporate thin bumper sheets that intercept and vaporize incident MMOD traveling at speeds in excess of several km/s. In some applications, however, space limitations prevent the use of large stand-offs, and components must instead be protected by a single monolithic shielding element. Electronics, for example, are often only protected by their housing. With such applications in mind, we describe a class of spatially efficient composite shielding elements fabricated using a hybrid additive manufacturing approach termed PrintCasting. The PrintCast process consists of two steps: First selective laser melting is used to fabricate a lattice preform in the shape of the final component. Next this preform is infiltrated with a liquid metal that has a melting point lower than that of the lattice. The resulting solidified part is a periodic interpenetrating composite in which each constituent forms a continuous network. Using a combination of hypervelocity impact experiments and shock transmission calculations, we demonstrate that these interpenetrating composite shielding elements mitigate spallation and other failure modes through multiple internal shock reflections at the buried heterophase interfaces.
Interfacial chemistry and electronic structure of epitaxial lattice-matched TiN/Al0.72Sc0.28N metal/semiconductor superlattices determined with soft x-ray scattering
Authors: Biswas Bidesh , Nayak Sanjay , Bhatia Vijay , Pillai Ashalatha Indiradevi Kamalasanan , Garbrecht Magnus , Modi Mohammed H. , Gupta Mukul , Saha Bivas
Published: July 2020

Epitaxial lattice-matched TiN/(Al,Sc)N metal/semiconductor superlattices have attracted significant interest in recent years for their potential applications in thermionic emission-based thermoelectric devices, optical hyperbolic metamaterials, and hot-electron-based solar-energy converters, as well as for the fundamental studies on the electron, photon, and phonon propagation in heterostructure materials. In order to achieve high efficiency devices and for the quest to discover new physics and device functionalities, it is extremely important that the superlattices exhibit atomically sharp and abrupt interfaces with minimal interface mixing and surface roughness. Moreover, as the energy transport across the cross-plane direction of these superlattices depends on the interface-properties, it is important to characterize the interfacial electronic structure and the chemistry of bond formation. Employing a combination of soft x-ray scattering techniques such as x-ray diffraction and synchrotron-based x-ray reflectivity, in this article, we demonstrate sharp and abrupt TiN/(Al,Sc)N superlattice interfaces with an asymmetric interface roughness ranging from two-to-three unit cells. Synchrotron-based soft x-ray absorption analysis revealed similar peak positions, line shapes, and absorption edges of different atoms in the individual thin films and in the superlattices, which demonstrate that the oxidation state of the atoms remains unchanged and rules-out the secondary structure or phase formation at the interfaces. The x-ray scattering results were further verified by aberration-corrected high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy imaging and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy mapping analysis. These results will be important for understanding of the transport properties of metal/semiconductor superlattices and for designing superlattice-based energy conversion devices.
Application of entropy and signal energy for ultrasound-based classification of three-dimensional printed polyetherketoneketone components
Authors: Luzi Francesco , Fenn Michelle , Christ Josef , Kennedy Zachary , Varga Tamas , Hughes Michael S. , Ortiz-Marrero Carlos
Published: July 2020

This paper describes a preliminary method for the classification of annealed and unannealed polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) components manufactured using a material extrusion three-dimensional (3D) printing process. PEKK is representative of a class of high-performance thermoplastics that are increasingly employed as feedstocks for use in 3D printing. PEKK components may be used continuously at elevated temperatures, are chemically resistant, and able to withstand large mechanical loads. These properties render PEKK suitable as a metal component replacement in aerospace applications, high-temperature industrial applications, and surgical implants. The structure of PEKK is semi-crystalline with the specific crystallinity correlating to the final properties during application, making determination of this property crucial. This study compares three different signal processing techniques intended to distinguish annealed (high crystallinity) from unannealed (low crystallinity) components using backscattered ultrasound. The first is energy-based and is unable to detect annealing. The second two are based on different entropies of the backscattered signal: a limiting form of Renyi's entropy and a limiting form of joint entropy. The joint entropy values for the annealed and unannealed specimens fall into two non-overlapping intervals and have a statistical separation of two standard deviations.
Safety and Pharmacokinetics of Recombinant Human Plasma Gelsolin in Patients Hospitalized for Nonsevere Community-Acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Tannous Abla , Levinson Susan L. , Bolognese James , Opal Steven M. , DiNubile Mark J.
Published: July 2020

There remains an unmet need to address the substantial morbidity and mortality associated with severe community-acquired pneumonia (sCAP). Recombinant human plasma gelsolin (rhu-pGSN) improves disease outcomes in diverse animal models of infectious and noninfectious inflammation. This blinded dose-escalation safety study involved non-intensive care unit (ICU) patients admitted for mild CAP and randomized 3:1 to receive adjunctive rhu-pGSN or placebo intravenously. Thirty-three subjects were treated: 8 in the single-dose phase and 25 in the multidose phase.
Diffusible Signal Factors Act through AraC-Type Transcriptional Regulators as Chemical Cues To Repress Virulence of Enteric Pathogens
Authors: Bosire Erick Maosa , Eade Colleen R. , Schiltz Carl J. , Reid Amanda J. , Troutman Jerry , Chappie Joshua S. , Altier Craig
Published: July 2020

Successful colonization by enteric pathogens is contingent upon effective interactions with the host and the resident microbiota. These pathogens thus respond to and integrate myriad signals to control virulence. Long-chain fatty acids repress the virulence of the important enteric pathogens
Salmonella enterica
and
Vibrio cholerae
by repressing AraC-type transcriptional regulators in pathogenicity islands. While several fatty acids are known to be repressive, we show here that
cis
-2-unsaturated fatty acids, a rare chemical class used as diffusible signal factors (DSFs), are highly potent inhibitors of virulence functions.
Albuminuria and Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: the Singapore Chinese Eye Study
(SCES)
Authors: Lim Zhi Wei , Chee Miao-Li , Thakur Sahil , Fang Xiaoling , Soh Zhi Da , Majithia Shivani , Teo Zhen Ling , Sabanayagam Charumathi , Wong Tien Yin , Cheng Ching-Yu , Tham Yih-Chung
Published: July 2020

Aims

To determine the association between albuminuria and primary open-angle
glaucoma (POAG).

Methods

Participants of the Singapore Chinese Eye study were recruited and
underwent standardised ocular and systemic examinations. Albuminuria was
determined using urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR, mg/g) based on
random spot urinary albumin and creatinine measurements. POAG was defined using
the International Society of Geographic and Epidemiological Ophthalmology
classification. Multivariable logistic regression with generalised estimating
equation model was used to evaluate the association between albuminuria and
POAG, while accounting for correlation between eyes.

Results

A total of 3009 Chinese adults (5963 eyes), aged 40–80 years, were
included in this study, of which, 52 subjects (75 eyes) had POAG. Higher UACR
(per 50 mg/g increase) was independently associated with POAG (OR=1.04, 95% CI
1.01 to 1.07, p=0.003) following adjustment for age, gender, intraocular
pressure, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidaemia, hypertension, anti-hypertensive
medication, history of cardiovascular disease, current smoking status, alcohol
intake, body mass index and estimated glomerular filtration rate. Further
stratification revealed that individuals with macroalbuminuria were 8.00 times
likely to have POAG (95% CI 2.97 to 21.54, p<0.001), compared with those
with normoalbuminuria. Microalbuminuria was not significantly associated with
POAG (OR=0.49, 95% CI 0.19 to 1.29, p=0.150). The association between
macroalbuminuria and POAG remained significant among individuals who were
diabetic (OR=9.89, 95% CI 2.49 to 39.30, p=0.001) and hypertensive (OR=8.39,
95% CI 3.07 to 22.94, p<0.001).

Conclusion

In this population-based study of Chinese adults, albuminuria was
independently associated with POAG. Our findings provide further understanding
on the pathogenesis of POAG and may potentially help to better identify
individuals at risk of POAG.
Lessons learned from the development and implementation of an electronic paediatric emergency and acute care database in Lilongwe, Malawi
Authors: Ciccone Emily J , Tilly Alyssa E , Chiume Msandeni , Mgusha Yamikani , Eckerle Michelle , Namuku Howard , Crouse Heather L , Mkaliainga Treasure B , Robison Jeff A , Schubert Charles J , Mvalo Tisungane , Fitzgerald Elizabeth
Published: July 2020

As the field of global child health increasingly focuses on inpatient and emergency care, there is broad recognition of the need for comprehensive, accurate data to guide decision-making at both patient and system levels. Limited financial and human resources present barriers to reliable and detailed clinical documentation at hospitals in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs). Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) is a tertiary referral hospital in Malawi where the paediatric ward admits up to 3000 children per month. To improve availability of robust inpatient data, we collaboratively designed an acute care database on behalf of PACHIMAKE, a consortium of Malawi and US-based institutions formed to improve paediatric care at KCH. We assessed the existing health information systems at KCH, reviewed quality care metrics, engaged clinical providers and interviewed local stakeholders who would directly use the database or be involved in its collection. Based on the information gathered, we developed electronic forms collecting data at admission, follow-up and discharge for children admitted to the KCH paediatric wards. The forms record demographic information, basic medical history, clinical condition and pre-referral management; track diagnostic processes, including laboratory studies, imaging modalities and consults; and document the final diagnoses and disposition obtained from clinical files and corroborated through review of existing admission and death registries. Our experience with the creation of this database underscores the importance of fully assessing existing health information systems and involving all stakeholders early in the planning process to ensure meaningful and sustainable implementation.
Real-world unassisted quit success and related contextual factors: a population-based study of Chinese male smokers
Authors: Jiang Shuhan , Yang Tingzhong , Bullen Christopher , Chen Jinsong , Yu Lingwei , Peng Sihui , Rockett Ian R H
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To examine the association of exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS) and tobacco advertising with unassisted smoking cessation among Chinese male smokers.

Methods

A questionnaire was administered to 6500 male adult smokers from six cities in China selected in a cross-sectional multistage sampling design. The survey collected self-reported demographic characteristics, smoking and cessation status, SHS exposure and tobacco advertising exposure, with 5782 valid questionnaires included in this study. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association of unassisted smoking cessation with exposure to SHS and tobacco advertising.

Results

42.1% of smokers who made unassisted quit attempts achieved abstinence (95% CI 32.5% to 51.7%). SHS (adjusted OR (aOR) 0.36; 95% CI 0.18 to 0.71; p=0.033) and tobacco advertising exposure (aOR 0.63; 95% CI 0.37 to 0.95; p=0.039) were negatively associated with unassisted smoking cessation.

Conclusion

The vast majority of Chinese male smokers rely on unassisted methods to quit smoking. Success prevalence is high, which is very beneficial to health. This study suggests that exposure to secondhand smoking and tobacco advertising hinders the success of unassisted cessation. These findings speak to the need for environmental tobacco control measures to promote unassisted smoking cessation among Chinese adult male smokers.
Anti-inflammatory Effects of Achillea millefolium on Atopic Dermatitis-Like Skin Lesions in NC/Nga Mice
Authors: Ngo Hien T.T. , Hwang Eunson , Kang Hyungoo , Park Bom , Seo Seul A. , Yi Tae-Hoo
Published: July 2020

Achillea millefolium L. (AM) is an aromatic herb with a variety of pharmacological properties, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic activities. However, AM’s effects on atopic dermatitis (AD) have not been investigated. This study evaluates the anti-AD activity of 50% ethanol-extracted AM in murine macrophage Raw 264.7 cells, in tumor necrosis factor-alpha/interferon-gamma (TNF-[Formula: see text]/IFN-[Formula: see text])-stimulated human immortal keratinocyte HaCaT cells in vitro, and in Biostir-AD-treated NC/Nga mice in vivo. The results showed that AM significantly downregulated expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as INOS, COX-2, and interleukin (IL)-6 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated Raw 264.7 cells. The mRNA expressions of INOS, COX-2, and IL-6 decreased by 76.1%, 69.3%, and 31.8%, respectively. Overexpression of chemokines, such as activation-regulated chemokine and macrophage-derived chemokine, regulated on activation of normal T-cell expressed and secreted, and IL-8 was inhibited by 70.01%, 52.91%, 73.53%, and 18.93%, respectively, in TNF-[Formula: see text]/IFN-[Formula: see text]-stimulated HaCaT cells by downregulating the mitogen-activated protein kinase, I[Formula: see text]B[Formula: see text], and the signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 signaling pathways. AD-like symptoms, such as elevated serum immunoglobin E levels, epidermal thickening, high dermatitis severity score, transepidermal water loss, and reduced skin hydration, were relieved by the dietary administration of AM in Biostir-AD-treated NC/Nga mice. In addition, filaggrin expression increased significantly in AM-treated groups. These results suggest that AM could be a useful candidate for AD treatment.
Rare Ginsenoside 20(R)-Rg3 Inhibits D-Galactose-Induced Liver and Kidney Injury by Regulating Oxidative Stress-Induced Apoptosis
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Jian-Qiang , Zhou Yan-Dan , Hou Jin-Gang , Liu Ying , Wang Ying-Ping , Gong Xiao-Jie , Lin Xiang-Hui , Jiang Shuang , Wang Zi
Published: July 2020

Oxidative stress is considered as a major factor in aging and exacerbates aging process through a variety of molecular mechanisms. D-galactose, a normal reducing sugar with high dose can cause the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) or stimulate free radical production indirectly by the formation of advanced glycation end products in tissues, finally resulting in oxidative stress. 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 (20(R)-Rg3), a major and representative component isolated from red ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A Meyer), has been shown to observably have an anti-oxidative effect. We thereby investigated the beneficial effects of 20(R)-Rg3 on D-galactose-induced oxidative stress injury and its underlying mechanisms. Our results showed that continuous injection of D-galactose with 800[Formula: see text]mg/kg/day for 8 weeks increased the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). However, such increases were attenuated by the treatment of 20(R)-Rg3 for 4 weeks. Meanwhile, 20(R)-Rg3 markedly inhibited D-galactose-caused oxidative stress in liver and kidney. The anti-oxidants, including catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), were elevated in the mice from 20(R)-Rg3-treated group compared with that from D-galactose group. In contrast, a significant decrease in levels of cytochrome P450 E1 (CYP2E1) and the lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde (MDA) and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) were observed in the 20(R)-Rg3-treated group. These effects were associated with a significant increase of AGEs. More importantly, 20(R)-Rg3 effectively attenuated D-galactose induced apoptosis in liver and kidney via restoring the upstream PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Taken together, our study suggests that 20(R)-Rg3 may be a novel and promising anti-oxidative therapeutic agent to prevent aging-related injuries in liver and kidney.
Cryptotanshinone-Induced p53-Dependent Sensitization of Colon Cancer Cells to Apoptotic Drive by Regulation of Calpain and Calcium Homeostasis
Authors: Wang Yue , Zhang Zhu , Auyeung Kathy Ka-Wai , Cho Chi-Hin , Yung Ken Kin-Lam , Ko Joshua Ka-Shun
Published: July 2020

Over-expression of calpains in tumor tissues can be associated with cancer progression. Thus, inhibition of calpain activity using specific inhibitors has become a novel approach to control tumor growth. In this study, the anticancer potential of cryptotanshinone in combination with calpain inhibitor had been investigated in colon cancer cells and tumor xenograft. Cryptotanshinone elicited an initial endoplasmic reticular (ER) stress response, whereas prolonged stress would result in the promotion of apoptosis. It was then discovered that cryptotanshinone could cause rapid and sustained increase in cytosolic calcium in colon cancer cells accompanied by early GRP78 overexpression, which could be attenuated by pre-treatment of the calcium chelator BAPTA-AM. Cryptotanshinone also facilitated an early increase in calpain activity, which could be blocked by BAPTA-AM or the calpain inhibitor PD150606. A dynamic interaction between GRP78 and calpain during the action of cryptotanshinone was unveiled. This together with the altered NF-[Formula: see text]B signaling could be abolished by calpain inhibitor. GRP78 knockdown increased the sensitivity of cancer cells to cryptotanshinone-evoked apoptosis and reduction of cancer cell colony formation. Such sensitization of drug action had been confirmed to be p53-dependent by using p53-mutated (HT-29) and p53-deficient (HCT116 p53−∕−) cells. The synergistic antitumor effect of cryptotanshinone and calpain inhibitor was further exhibited in vivo. Taken together, findings in this study exemplify a new chemotherapeutic regimen comprising cryptotanshinone and calpain inhibitor by regulation of calpain and calcium homeostasis. This has provided us with new insights in the search of a potential target-specific neoadjuvant therapy against colon cancer.
4-Acetylantrocamol LT3, a New Ubiquinone from Antrodia cinnamomea, Inhibits Hepatocellular Carcinoma HepG2 Cell Growth by Targeting YAP/TAZ, mTOR, and WNT/β-Catenin Signaling
Authors: Chen Yen-Lin , Yen I-Chuan , Lin Kuen-Tze , Lai Feng-Yi , Lee Shih-Yu
Published: July 2020

4-acetylantrocamol LT3 (4AALT3), a new ubiquinone from the mycelium of Antrodia cinnamomea (Polyporaceae), has been recently shown to possess anticancer activity. However, the detailed mechanisms of such action remain unclear. In this study, the molecular mechanisms of 4AALT3 on hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HCC) were investigated. Human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2 cells were treated with concentrations of 4AALT3. Cell viability, colony formation, and the underlying mechanisms were then analyzed by CCK-8, colony formation, qPCR, and Western blotting assays. We found that 4AALT3 significantly decreased cell viability and colony formation in a dose-dependent manner. Accordingly, 4AALT3 significantly decreased protein levels of cyclin B, E1, D1, and D3, thereby facilitating cell cycle arrest. In addition, 4AALT3 significantly suppressed the nuclear localization of Yes-associated protein (YAP)/transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and WNT/[Formula: see text]-catenin signaling pathways, all of which are well-known signaling pathways that contribute to the malignant properties of HCC. These effects are associated with activation of 5′ AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and autophagy. Our findings indicate that 4AALT3 exerts inhibitory effects on HepG2 cell growth via multiple signaling pathways and may be a potential agent for HCC therapy.
Momordica charantia and breast cancer: An in silico approach
Authors: dos Santos Coelho Malênia Oliveira , de Almeida Berbert Caroline , Borges Leonardo Luiz
Published: July 2020

Momordica charantia, known as “São Caetano Melon”, is a medicinal plant popularly used for its antitumor, anticarcinogenic, hypoglycemic, and other properties. Studies in mice have demonstrated its activity in vivo against breast, prostate, and ovarian cancers. In vitro studies have also indicated potential efficacy against cervical solid tumors, and breast cancer. In these studies, we sought to evaluate these putative activities. Our methods included use of in silico tools to assess predicted biological activities, pharmacodynamics, and toxicity. We also performed docking and pharmacophore modeling studies. We found phenolic compounds, flavonoids, alkaloids, and triterpenes. Four flavonoids possess predicted anticarcinogenic activity, and affinity for estrogen receptors. Quercetin was selected for the study because it is the most prevalent representative of its class.
An Empirical Analysis of Commodity Convenience Yields
Authors: Dincerler Cantekin , Khokher Zeigham , Simin Timothy
Published: July 2020

We study convenience yield dynamics using a dataset of inventories to proxy for relative scarcity. We confirm that convenience yields are negatively related to inventories although they plateau during periods of scarcity for crude oil. Inventory withdrawals are non-monotonically related to the convenience yield and they forecast significant futures returns. Testing for the effect of demand shocks, we document both temporary and permanent price components. Importantly, we show that mean reversion in expected equilibrium prices varies with relative scarcity. This result suggests an important bias in contingent claims models in extant practice.
A methodology to explore ventilatory chemosensitivity and opioid-induced respiratory depression risk
Authors: Dong Tiffany W. , MacLeod David B. , Santoro Antoinette , Augustine Zachary , Barth Stratton , Cooter Mary , Moon Richard E.
Published: July 2020

Our new and noteworthy methodology allows for exploration of preoperative ventilatory chemosensitivity, measured as the hypercapnic ventilatory response (HCVR), as a risk factor for postoperative opioid-induced respiratory depression (OIRD). This feasible and reliable methodology produced preliminary data that showed highly variable depression of HCVR by remifentanil, predominance of OIRD during light sleep, and potentially negative correlation between OIRD frequency generally and HCVR measurements when measured in the presence of remifentanil. Although the results are preliminary in nature, this novel methodology may guide future studies that can one day lead to effective clinical screening tools.
Influence of Bionic Pit Structure on Friction and Sealing Performance of Reciprocating Plunger
Authors: Gao Tianyu , Su Bo , Jiang Lei , Cong Qian
Published: July 2020

A new kind of pit‐shaped bionic plunger proposes to reduce the frictional resistance of the reciprocating plunger and improve its sealing performance. According to the dorsal pore of earthworm, the bionic pit structure with different parameters designed and processed. The friction resistance test, observation test, and finite element analysis carried out. The results show that the bionic pit structure can improve the lubrication condition of the plunger surface and reduce the frictional resistance with a maximum drag reduction rate of 14.32%. The pit‐shaped bionic structure can increase the storage of lubricating oil, intercept the surface streamline, and decrease the flow rate. The bionic plungers’ mean contact pressure and oil film pressure increased significantly.
Design and Analysis of the Bionic Mechanical Foot with High Trafficability on Sand
Authors: Zhang Rui , Pang Hao , Wan Haijin , Han Dianlei , Li Guoyu , Wen Lige
Published: July 2020

The ostrich foot has excellent travelling performance on sand and plays a vital role in efficient locomotion. The tendon-bone assembly characteristics of an ostrich foot were studied by gross anatomy, and the 3D model of ostrich foot was reconstructed and analyzed using reverse engineering techniques. Further, the bionic mechanical foot, suitable for locomotion on loose sand, was designed based on the structural characteristics of ostrich foot and its rigid-flexible coupling mechanism of tendon-bone synergies. The travelling performance on sand of the bionic mechanical foot was tested on a test platform by using Simi Motion. After analyzing the angle changes of the ankle joint and the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, the displacement changes of the knee joint, the ankle joint, the MTP joint, and each phalanx along the z-axis, the plantar pressure distribution, and the footprints, we drew the conclusion that the bionic mechanical foot is helpful to reduce the sinkage and improve the trafficability on sand ground. This study provides a new research method for the walking mechanism of a robot and deep space exploration platform walking on soft ground.
Interactive Buckling of Q420 Welded Circular Tubes under Axial Compression
Authors: Huang Bin , Hong Zhou Che
Published: July 2020

Finite element models (FE models) of high‐strength steel Q420 (yield strength 420 MPa) circular tubes considering residual stresses and local and overall geometric imperfections were established and verified against existing test data. Based on parameter analysis, it was derived that the reduction of ultimate capacity resulting from residual stresses was up to 11.8%. When slenderness ratio was larger than 25, the effect of overall geometric imperfection played a major role compared with that of local geometric imperfection, which resulted in the reduction of the ultimate capacity of about 11.5%. Through tracking the failure process, it was found that, in the initial stage of loading, the deformation of columns mainly presents overall bending. When the load increased near the ultimate load, local buckling occurred and the bearing capacity decreased rapidly. The D/t limit value 27 was determined for preventing the local buckling, and the overall slenderness λl limit value 40 was proposed to distinguish whether local buckling occurs. Based on the FEM result and test data, the applicability of ASCE48‐05 and AS4100 for local buckling resistance was evaluated. Continuing the result of stub columns, curve a in GB50017‐2017 and in Eurocode 3 of the overall buckling factor φ was proposed to be used in EWM and DSM for estimating the interactive buckling resistance of circular tubes of Q420 under axial compression.
Analysis of Minimum Cost of Supply Chain Emergencies Based on Diffusion Path Processing
Authors: Cao Yan , Tian Tian , Wei Wanyu , Huang Liang , Wu Yujia
Published: July 2020

In view of the complexity and severity of the impact of supply chain emergencies on enterprise economy, this paper proposes modular processing to improve the design structure matrix (DMS), and the designed clustering algorithm is used to perform cluster analysis of the improved DMS, to predict the possible diffusion path of emergencies, and to establish the critical event diffusion path planning model by designing the critical event diffusion path storage method. As in the case data of a certain type of servo motor of the H Company, after data screening, the diffusion path is classified and stored by analyzing the relationship between each member of the supply chain network. Secondly, the same group of data is put into the method of this paper and other scholars’ to calculate the minimum cost of emergency response in time.
Nordhaus–Gaddum-Type Relations for Arithmetic-Geometric Spectral Radius and Energy
Authors: Wang Yajing , Gao Yubin
Published: July 2020

Spectral graph theory plays an important role in engineering. Let G be a simple graph of order n with vertex set V=v1,v2,…,vn. For vi∈V, the degree of the vertex vi, denoted by di, is the number of the vertices adjacent to vi. The arithmetic-geometric adjacency matrix AagG of G is defined as the n×n matrix whose i,j entry is equal to di+dj/2didj if the vertices vi and vj are adjacent and 0 otherwise. The arithmetic-geometric spectral radius and arithmetic-geometric energy of G are the spectral radius and energy of its arithmetic-geometric adjacency matrix, respectively. In this paper, some new upper bounds on arithmetic-geometric energy are obtained. In addition, we present the Nordhaus–Gaddum-type relations for arithmetic-geometric spectral radius and arithmetic-geometric energy and characterize corresponding extremal graphs.