bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis associated with shock
Authors: Costa Philippos Apolinario , Costa Bruna Menon Loureiro Apolinario , Milikowski Clara , St Onge Joan E
Published: October 2020

A 23-year-old man with a history of end-stage renal disease was admitted to the hospital due to fever and shock, which occurred during his dialysis. One week prior, he developed an erythematous rash on his chest, face and back, associated with generalised eruption of pustules. In hospital, his status did not improve with norepinephrine and empirical broad-spectrum antibiotics. Following this, methylprednisolone was administered with remarkable improvement. Cultures revealed no infectious aetiology. Based on the morphology of the rash and a compatible skin biopsy, the diagnosis of acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) was established and considered the cause of his shock. The causative agent of his AGEP remained unknown. AGEP is a rare condition, most frequently associated with drug exposure. The removal of the offending agent is the treatment of choice. It can be complicated by shock in rare cases. In that scenario, systemic corticosteroids seem to improve outcomes greatly.
Unusual cause of Fournier’s gangrene: colorectal-genitourinary tract fistulae status post brachytherapy
Authors: Saleem Nabil , Devan William J , Pitts Daniel R , VerLee Graham T
Published: October 2020

There are few reports of radiation associated colorectal–genitourinary tract (CRGU) fistulae causing Fournier’s gangrene (FG). We describe a case of FG in a patient with possibly two CRGU fistulae in the context of previous high-dose brachytherapy and external beam radiation therapy for prostate cancer. Unfortunately, CRGU fistulae are not well classified as significant risk factors for the development of FG. Our case demonstrates the rationale for maintaining a broad differential in patients presenting with recurrent urinary tract symptoms or necrotising soft tissue infections to include undiagnosed fistulae.
Unusual variant of pseudo prune belly syndrome
Authors: Loganathan Arun Kumar , Barla S S Ravi Kishore , Kurian Jujju Jacob
Published: October 2020

Unilateral pseudo prune belly syndrome (PPBS) is a rare variant with only two other cases found in the main literature until. We present a 9-month old boy with left-sided lax abdominal wall, undescended testes and major vesicoureteric reflux involving only the left side. He underwent left orchidopexy and left end ureterostomy followed by left nephrectomy. Unilateral variant supports the theory of mesodermal arrest as a cause for prune belly syndrome. Treatment is individualised and prognosis is relatively better when compared with other variants of PPBS.
Transitory outward pupillary curling in a case of HSV associated acute anterior uveitis: a hitherto unreported sign
Authors: Karkhur Samendra , Soni Deepak , Sharma Bhavana
Published: October 2020

We report a case of herpes simplex virus (HSV) associated acute anterior uveitis in otherwise healthy 38-year-old man with an unusual finding of outward pupillary margin curling. At presentation visual acuity was 20/60 in right eye (OD) and 20/20 in left eye (OS). Intraocular pressure was 44 and 18 mm Hg in OD and OS respectively. OD revealed diffuse conjunctival congestion, stromal oedema, pigmented keratic precipitates, cells grade 3+ and flare 2+ on slit-lamp examination and diminished corneal sensations. OS was unremarkable. There was a history of three similar episodes in last 1 year. Aetiology of this recurrent acute anterior uveitis was confirmed to be HSV via DNA-PCR assay of aqueous fluid. This hitherto unreported sign associated with viral hypertensive uveitis was transitory in nature and reversible with control of anterior chamber inflammation, without leaving any permanent damage. Topical steroids and antiglaucoma were stopped, while antiviral therapy was continued for 3 months.
Income-related inequities of adult obesity and central obesity in China: evidence from the China Health and Nutrition Survey 1997–2011
Authors: Zhou Ling , Cao Dan , Si Yafei , Zhu Xuexue , Du Liang , Zhang Yu , Zhou Zhongliang
Published: October 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to analyse the status regarding inequities in adult obesity and central obesity in China. Thus, income-related inequality for both diseases and the underlying factors were examined.

Methods and design

The China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS)—conducted from 1997 to 2011—included 128 307 participants; in this study, 79 566 individuals classified as obese and 65 250 regarded as suffering from central obesity according to the CHNS were analysed. A body mass index greater than 27 was considered indicative of obesity; men and women with a waist circumference of more than 102 cm and 80 cm, respectively, were considered as suffering from central obesity. The concentration index was employed to analyse inequality in adult obesity and central obesity. The decomposition of this index based on a probit model was used to calculate the horizontal inequality index.

Results

The prevalence of adult obesity increased from 8.34% in 1997 to 17.74% in 2011, and that of central obesity increased from 6.52% in 1997 to 16.79% in 2011. The horizontal inequality index for adult obesity decreased from 0.1377 in 1997 to 0.0164 in 2011; for central obesity, it decreased from 0.0806 in 1997 to −0.0193 in 2011. The main causes of inequality for both diseases are, among others, economic status, marital status and educational attainment.

Conclusions

From 1997 to 2011, the prevalence of adult obesity and central obesity increased annually. The pro-rich inequalities in both adult and central obesity decreased from 1997 to 2011. The inequality in central obesity was more prominent in the low-income group in 2011. Future policies may need to address obesity reduction among the poor.
Study protocol for a prospective, longitudinal cohort study investigating the medical and psychosocial outcomes of UK combat casualties from the Afghanistan war: the ADVANCE Study
Authors: Bennett Alexander N , Dyball Daniel Mark , Boos Christopher J , Fear Nicola T , Schofield Susie , Bull Anthony M J , Cullinan Paul
Published: October 2020

Introduction

The Afghanistan war (2003–2014) was a unique period in military medicine. Many service personnel survived injuries of a severity that would have been fatal at any other time in history; the long-term health outcomes of such injuries are unknown. The ArmeD SerVices TrAuma and RehabilitatioN OutComE (ADVANCE) study aims to determine the long-term effects on both medical and psychosocial health of servicemen surviving this severe combat related trauma.

Methods and analysis

ADVANCE is a prospective cohort study. 1200 Afghanistan-deployed male UK military personnel and veterans will be recruited and will be studied at 0, 3, 6, 10, 15 and 20 years. Half are personnel who sustained combat trauma; a comparison group of the same size has been frequency matched based on deployment to Afghanistan, age, sex, service, rank and role. Participants undergo a series of physical health tests and questionnaires through which information is collected on cardiovascular disease (CVD), CVD risk factors, musculoskeletal disease, mental health, functional and social outcomes, quality of life, employment and mortality.

Ethics and dissemination

The ADVANCE Study has approval from the Ministry of Defence Research Ethics Committee (protocol no:357/PPE/12) agreed 15 January 2013. Its results will be disseminated through manuscripts in clinical/academic journals and presentations at professional conferences, and through participant and stakeholder communications.

Trial registration number

The ADVANCE Study is registered at ISRCTN ID: ISRCTN57285353.
Normal range of serum potassium, prevalence of dyskalaemia and associated factors in Chinese older adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Jin Aoming , Zhao Minghui , Sun Yihong , Feng Xiangxian , Zhang Ruijuan , Qiao Qianku , Wang Hongxia , Yuan Jianhui , Wang Yuqi , Cheng Lili , Zhang Hui , Li Hui-Juan , Wu Yangfeng
Published: October 2020

Objective

To investigate the normal range of serum potassium, the prevalence of dyskalaemia and the associated factors in Chinese older adults.

Design

A cross-sectional study conducted from September 2017 to March 2018.

Setting

Forty-eight community elderly care facilities in four regions in northern China.

Participants

A total of 1266 (308 apparently healthy and 958 unhealthy) participants 55 years or older and with fasting serum potassium measured.

Main outcome measures and methods

Serum potassium <3.5 mEq/L and >5.5 mEq/L (guidelines definition) and <2.5th and >97.5th percentiles of the distribution among healthy participants (our study definition) were both used to define hypokalaemia and hyperkalaemia, respectively. Multivariable generalised estimating equation models were used to adjust for clustering effect in the analyses of factors associated with risk of dyskalaemia and with variations in serum potassium.

Results

The study participants had a mean age of 70 (8.8) years. Among apparently healthy participants, the 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles of serum potassium distribution were 3.7 mEq/L and 5.3 mEq/L, respectively. Using the study definition, the prevalence of hyperkalaemia was 4.3% (95% CI 3.2% to 5.4%) and of hypokalaemia was 4.0% (95% CI 2.9% to 5.1%). Multivariable analyses showed that risk of hyperkalaemia was associated with unhealthy conditions (OR=2.21; 95% CI 1.17 to 4.18); risk of hypokalaemia was associated with unhealthy conditions (OR=2.56; 95% CI 1.05 to 6.23), older age (OR=1.70 per 10-year increase; 95% CI 1.04 to 2.79) and region (OR=16.87; 95% CI 6.41 to 44.38); and higher serum potassium was associated with male gender (mean difference (MD)=0.12; 95% CI 0.05 to 0.19) and estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (MD=0.29; 95% CI 0.12 to 0.46). Using the guidelines definition, hyperkalaemia accounted for 2.7% (1.8%, 3.6%) and hypokalaemia 1.8% (1.1%, 2.5%). Analyses of the associated factors showed similar trends.

Conclusions

The study suggested a narrower normal range of serum potassium for defining dyskalaemia, which was common in older Chinese and more prevalent in unhealthy ones.

Trial registration number

NCT03290716; Pre-results.
Proactive telephone-based peer support for breastfeeding: a cross-sectional survey of women’s experiences of receiving support in the RUBY randomised controlled trial
Authors: McLardie-Hore Fiona E , McLachlan Helen L , Shafiei Touran , Forster Della A
Published: October 2020

Objective

The Ringing Up about Breastfeeding earlY (RUBY) randomised controlled trial (RCT) of proactive telephone-based peer support for breastfeeding found that infants of women allocated to the intervention were more likely to be receiving breast milk at 6 months of age than those receiving usual care. This study explores women’s experiences of receiving the RUBY peer support intervention.

Design

Cross-sectional survey.

Setting

Women were recruited from the postnatal units of three tertiary hospitals in Melbourne, Australia.

Participants

Women allocated to receive telephone peer support in the RUBY RCT who completed a telephone interview at 6 months postpartum (501/574 (87%) in trial intervention arm) were invited to complete a postal survey on their experience of receiving support.

Outcomes

Experiences of support from the allocated peer, perceived helpfulness, topics discussed, overall satisfaction with the support and frequency and duration of contact were explored.

Results

Surveys were sent between August 2013 and March 2016, and 72% (360/501) responded of whom 341 recalled receiving peer support. Women reported high levels of perceived helpfulness (79%) and overall satisfaction with the peer support (93%). Discussions included breastfeeding topics (milk supply, attachment), baby care, baby behaviour, and reassurance and emotional support. Women valued the practical and realistic support from another mother, as well as the proactive nature, continuity and accessibility of the support. The empathy, reassurance and encouragement provided helped the mothers to ‘cope’, to continue breast feeding and to feel empowered.

Conclusion

Most respondents were positive about their experience of receiving proactive telephone peer support for breastfeeding, further supporting the roll-out of this model as a strategy for increasing breastfeeding maintenance to 6 months. Recommendations include flexibility in the scheduling of calls according to individual need, and the use of text messages in conjunction with proactive calls, to enhance and facilitate communication between the peer and the mother.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12612001024831.
Working lives of GPs in Scotland and England: cross-sectional analysis of national surveys
Authors: Hayes Helen , Gibson Jonathan , Fitzpatrick Bridie , Checkland Kath , Guthrie Bruce , Sutton Matt , Gillies John , Mercer Stewart W
Published: October 2020

Objectives

The UK faces major problems in retaining general practitioners (GPs). Scotland introduced a new GP contract in April 2018, intended to better support GPs. This study compares the career intentions and working lives of GPs in Scotland with GPs in England, shortly after the new Scotland contract was introduced.

Design and setting

Comparison of cross-sectional analysis of survey responses of GPs in England and Scotland in 2017 and 2018, respectively, using linear regression to adjust the differences for gender, age, ethnicity, urbanicity and deprivation.

Participants

2048 GPs in Scotland and 879 GPs in England.

Main outcome measures

Four intentions to reduce work participation (5-point scales: 1=‘none’, 5=‘high’): reducing working hours; leaving medical work entirely; leaving direct patient care; or continuing medical work but outside the UK. Four domains of working life: job satisfaction (7-point scale: 1=‘extremely dissatisfied’, 7=‘extremely satisfied’); job stressors (5-point-scale: 1=‘no pressure’, 5=‘high pressure); positive and negative job attributes (5-point scales: 1=‘strongly disagree’, 5=‘strongly agree’).

Results

Compared with England, GPs in Scotland had lower intention to reduce work participation, including a lower likelihood of reducing work hours (2.78 vs 3.54; adjusted difference=−0.52; 95% CI −0.64 to −0.41), a lower likelihood of leaving medical work entirely (2.11 vs 2.76; adjusted difference=−0.32; 95% CI −0.42 to −0.22), a lower likelihood of leaving direct patient care (2.23 vs 2.93; adjusted difference=−0.37; 95% CI −0.47 to −0.27), and a lower likelihood of continuing medical work but outside of the UK (1.41 vs 1.61; adjusted difference=−0.2; 95% CI −0.28 to −0.12). GPs in Scotland reported higher job satisfaction, lower job stressors, similar positive job attributes and lower negative job attributes.

Conclusion

Following the introduction of the new contract in Scotland, GPs in Scotland reported significantly better working lives and lower intention to reduce work participation than England.
Impact of trauma centre accreditation on mortality and complications in a Canadian trauma system: an interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Batomen Brice , Moore Lynne , Strumpf Erin , Champion Howard , Nandi Arijit
Published: October 2020

Background

Periodic external accreditation visits aiming to determine whether trauma centres are fulfilling the criteria for optimal care are part of most trauma systems. However, despite the growing trend towards accreditation of trauma centres, its impact on patient outcomes remains unclear. In addition, a recent systematic review found inconsistent results on the association between accreditation and patient outcomes, mostly due to the lack of robust controls. We aim to address these gaps by assessing the impact of trauma centre accreditation on patient outcomes, specifically in-hospital mortality and complications, using an interrupted time series (ITS) design.

Methods

We included all major trauma admissions to five level I and four level II trauma centres in Quebec, Canada between 2008 and 2017. In order to perform ITS, we first obtained monthly and quarterly estimates of the proportions of in-hospital mortality and complications, respectively, for level I and level II centres. Prognostic scores were used to standardise these proportions to account for changes in patient case mix and segmented regressions with autocorrelated errors were used to estimate changes in levels and trends in both outcomes following accreditation.

Results

There were 51 035 admissions, including 20 165 for major trauma during the study period. After accounting for changes in patient case mix and secular trend in studied outcomes, we globally did not observe an association between accreditation and patient outcomes. However, associations were heterogeneous across centres. For example, in a level II centre with worsening preaccreditation outcomes, accreditation led to −9.08 (95% CI −13.29 to −4.87) and −9.60 (95% CI −15.77 to −3.43) percentage point reductions in mortality and complications, respectively.

Conclusion

Accreditation seemed to be beneficial for centres that were experiencing a decrease in performance preceding accreditation.
Clinical examinations for medical students during the COVID-19 outbreak: a simulated patient programme perspective
Authors: Ngiam Nicola , Yasol Geena , Goh Denise Li-Meng
Published: October 2020

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on how our university had to administer the high stakes, final year medical undergraduate clinical examinations without real patients, while maintaining its validity and rigour.

Method

11 out of the 21 stations of the medical, surgical and orthopaedic clinical examinations needed to be converted to simulated patient (SP)-based or task-based stations. Cases were developed based on an assessment blueprint, with consideration for SP demographics and availability of equipment. Infection control measures were strictly enforced to avoid transmission of COVID-19. Planning had to include consideration for physical distancing, cohorting and segregation of students and examiners. Student and SP anxiety had to be addressed.

Results

The examination was executed successfully for 300 medical students. Everyone worked professionally and dealt with the changes and precautions that were required with flexibility.

Discussion

An infectious disease outbreak can derail plans for major clinical examinations. Factors that facilitated a rapid and effective response included decisive leadership, open communication, willingness to collaborate, mobilising resources, adaptability and flexibility. Our school managed uncertainty by erring on the side of caution. This experience may serve as a reference for others in similar situations, particularly when COVID-19 restrictions start to be lifted.
Trends and predictors of myocardial infarction or vascular death after ischaemic stroke or TIA in China, 2007–2018: insights from China National Stroke Registries
Authors: Li Long , Pan Yuesong , Wang Mengxing , Jing Jing , Meng Xia , Jiang Yong , Guo Caixia , Jin Zening , Wang Yongjun
Published: October 2020

Background

Although stroke management, primary and secondary preventions have been improved in China last decades, the trends and predictors of major vascular events after ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) at national scale are less known.

Methods

Data were obtained from the three phases of China National Stroke Registry (CNSR), including CNSR-Ⅰ (years 2007–2008), CNSR-Ⅱ (years 2012–2013) and CNSR-III (years 2015–2018). For comparison, patients who were diagnosed as ischaemic stroke or TIA were included. Kaplan-Meier estimates of myocardial infarction (MI) or vascular death were calculated at 1 year. Independent predictors were further assessed with a Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

From 2007 to 2018, a total of 50 284 patients with ischaemic stroke or TIA were enrolled in this study. A declining trend was found in 1-year MI or vascular death (p for trend <0.001), while recurrent stroke depicted a U-shape curve with a nadir in 2012–2013 cohort. A similar trend was also observed in patients who were admitted to 26 hospitals in all three CNSRs. In 2015–2018 cohort, only 251 (1.7%; 95% CI 1.5% to 1.9%) MI or vascular death had occurred at 1 year. Older age, previous stroke or TIA, history of coronary artery disease and the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale >6 were associated with both an increased risk of MI or vascular death and recurrent stroke. While early antiplatelet therapy and lipid-lowering agents at discharge predicted a reduced risk.

Conclusion

A declining trend and current low incidence of MI or vascular death, rather than recurrent stroke, after ischaemic stroke or TIA were observed in China. Traditional factors were found as independent predictors. These findings suggested there is still much room to improve for stroke management.
Theoretical investigation of solvent effect on the keto–enol tautomerization of pentane-2,4-dione and a comparison between experimental data and theoretical calculations
Authors: Mehrani S. , Tayyari S.F. , Heravi M.M. , Morsali A.
Published: October 2020

The equilibrium constants of stable keto and enol forms of pentane-2,4-dione (known as acetylacetone) are estimated, using the second-order Møller−Plesset (MP2), density functional theory (B3LYP and M06-2X), composite methods (G4, G3, G3B3, CBS-QB3, and G3MP2B3), double-hybrid density functional theory (B2PLYP), and long-range corrected (LC) hybrid functional (ωB97X-D). These methods are integrated with the PCM, CPCM, and SMD models to elucidate the effect of solvent on thermodynamic parameters. The reported measured enol contents in the solutions and gas phase are utilized to benchmark the predictions of different quantum mechanical methods for the keto–enol equilibrium in acetylacetone. In this study, we calculated the enol content in 16 acetylacetone solutions and in the gas phase. Among the applied methods, the MP2 level and the B3LYP level underestimate and overestimate, respectively, the enol content of acetylacetone in the gas phase and solutions. The G3B3 and G3MP2B3 levels give reasonable agreement with the measured data. The best results obtained by calculations at the B2PLYP/6-31+G(2d,p) and CBS-QB3 levels, with mean absolute errors (MAE) relative to experiments of 2.30 and 5.45 and root mean square deviation (RMSD) errors of 0.78 and 1.66, respectively. According to our calculations, one enol and two keto forms (Ket1 and Ket2) coexist in polar solutions. The effect of solvent was more pronounced on the structure and stability of the Ket2 tautomer than others. The strength of the intramolecular hydrogen bond in the enol form of acetylacetone is almost independent of the solvent polarity.
Synthesis and characterization of novel photochromic and pH-sensitive colorimetric hydrogel based on azobenzene
Authors: Razeghi Reza , Kazemi Foad , Kaboudin Babak , Olyaei Abolfazl , Yokomatsu Tsutomu
Published: October 2020

This article reports the synthesis of new Dye A from the reaction of 4-methyl 2-nitroaniline, NaNO2/H+, and sodium 1-naphtholate. Dye A responded with an obvious colour change visible to naked eyes to pH, ultraviolet light, and fluoride ion and was studied by UV–vis spectroscopy. Next, the reaction of Dye A with crotonic anhydride leads to the formation of MDye A. Subsequently, synthesis of a new type of photochromic and pH-sensitive colorimetric hydrogel consisting of a new azobenzene (MDye A), acrylic acid, acrylamide, N,N'-methylenebisacrylic amide as a crosslinking agent, and sodium acrylate in the presence of 2,2′-azobis(isobutyronitrile) as initiator and sorbitan monostearate (Span 60) as the dispersant or under a LED lamp (400 nm, 20 W) in the presence of CdS nanorods and β-cyclodextrin was studied. The products were characterized using 1H NMR,13C NMR, TGA, DTG, SEM, TEM, and FTIR spectroscopy. The synthesized new hydrogel showed good pH responsiveness and photoresponsiveness, which was investigated by UV–vis spectroscopy. Also, the effects of parameters such as amounts of CdS nanorods, cross-linker, and water, duration of pre-oxygenation, light intensity on the swelling of gel, and polymerization rate in the synthesis of hydrogel were investigated.
Bifurcation Patterns of Bursting within pre-Bötzinger Complex and Their Control
Authors: Duan Lixia , Liang Wangjuan , Ji Wenchao , Xi Hongguang
Published: October 2020

A variety of firing rhythms can be generated spontaneously in the pre-Bötzinger complex. External stimuli can cause changes in the pattern of the firing rhythm, which may cause different physiological effects in the body. In this study, by the fast and slow time scale dynamics, with one- and two-parameter bifurcation analysis, we study the bursting patterns and their transition mechanisms of the pre-Bötzinger complex under washout filter controller. The results may help us understand the relationship between different firing patterns of neurons and external stimuli, and further reveal the mechanisms of disease due to external stimuli.
Mechanism of Principal Component Analysis in Structural Dynamics under Ambient Excitation
Authors: Lin Yi-Zhou , Nie Zhen-Hua , Ma Hong-Wei
Published: October 2020

Principal component analysis (PCA) is a classical dimensionally reduction method having been widely applied in structural health monitoring (SHM) systems. However, it usually works as a “black-box” in most applications, i.e. the outputs of PCA only make sense statistically without physical meaning. This problem causes the difficulty to estimate the stability of the current PCA-based SHM methods, due to the unclear physical essence in engineering. This paper aims to propose a physical interpretation of PCA when it is applied to the response data from a multi-freedom system under ambient excitation. Both non-damping and damping cases are analyzed theoretically and verified by both numerical and laboratory experiments. The results indicate there is a close connection between the outputs of PCA and dynamical parameters: PCA can reveal information about the mode shape and modal participation of the structure. This work gives a theoretical foundation of the current PCA-based SHM method under ambient excitation, leading to the possibility of further advancement.
Performance Measurement of Collaborative Research and Development: An Exploratory Analysis
Authors: Franzò Simone , Frattini Federico , Landoni Paolo
Published: October 2020

Collaborative research and development (R&D) requires specific management approaches in several aspects including the measurement of R&D performance. This paper aims to contribute to the debate on how performance of different types of collaborative R&D activities should be measured. To this end, we conduct an exploratory research based on case studies, involving four cases of multinational companies in different fields. We show that firms use performance measurement systems for collaborative R&D which are different compared to the ones used for non-collaborative R&D. Furthermore, such performance measurement systems differ depending on the type of collaborative R&D projects that companies are involved in.
TheEx-AnteEconomic Analysis of Investments in Large Dams: A Brief History
Authors: Whittington Dale , Smith V. Kerry
Published: October 2020

This paper provides an overview of six developments in the ex ante economic analyses of large dams: Adding Systems Analysis; Incorporating Multiple Objectives; Incorporating Environment and Social Losses; Recognizing Economy-Wide Linkages; Modeling Non-cooperative Behavior; and Dealing with Uncertainty. The paper briefly discusses the evolution of each development and summarizes how the research findings have been integrated into the practice of using economic analysis to evaluate potential public investments in large dams. The paper also considers how ex post analyses of dams have been conducted and whether the insights from them have influenced the ex ante analyses that followed that research.
Effects of alloying elements on the amounts of MgZn2 and S-Al2CuMg phase in 7075 aluminum alloy
Authors: Yang Hong Bin , Li Meng Nie , Bu Heng Yong , Lu Xin
Published: October 2020

Thermodynamic equilibria of 27 compositions of 7075 aluminum alloy are computed using JMatPro. The maximum amount of MgZn2 phase (MP[M]) and the maximum amount of S-Al2CuMg phase (MP[S]) in each composition are taken as the objective functions. Effects of the contents of Zn, Mg and Cu on MP[M] and MP[S] are studied using analysis of variance (ANOVA) with second-order interactions. Analysis results suggest that Zn, Mg, Cu, Zn[Formula: see text]Mg and Mg[Formula: see text]Cu have a significant influence on the MP[M] with a sequence of Zn[Formula: see text]Mg[Formula: see text]Mg[Formula: see text]Cu[Formula: see text]Cu[Formula: see text]Zn[Formula: see text]Mg, whereas Zn, Mg and Cu have a significant influence on the MP[S] with a sequence of Cu[Formula: see text]Zn[Formula: see text]Mg. Predictive equations for calculating the amounts of MP[M] and MP[S] are obtained using regression analyses. With the requirement of maximum amount of MP[M] and minimum amount of MP[S] within the alloy, the optimized composition of 7075 aluminum alloy is predicted and it contains 6.1%Zn, 2.27%Mg and 1.2%Cu.
Tweeting During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Yaqub Ussama
Published: October 2020

In this article, we utilize VADER, a rule-based model, to perform sentiment analysis of tweets by President Donald Trump during the early spread of the Covid-19 pandemic across the United States, making it the worst-hit country in the world. We discover a statistically significant negative correlation between the sentiment of his messages and the number of Covid-19 cases in the United States, indicating an effect on the tone of his tweets as the pandemic took its toll on American lives and economy. Furthermore, we also witness a gradual shift from positive to negative sentiment in his messages mentioning China and coronavirus together.
Inflammation and thrombosis in COVID-19 pathophysiology: proteinase-activated and purinergic receptors as drivers and candidate therapeutic targets
Authors: Sriram Krishna , Insel Paul A.
Published: October 2020

Evolving information has identified disease mechanisms and dysregulation of host biology that might be targeted therapeutically in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Thrombosis and coagulopathy, associated with pulmonary injury and inflammation, are emerging clinical features of COVID-19. We present a framework for mechanisms of thrombosis in COVID-19 that initially derive from interaction of SARS-CoV-2 with ACE2, resulting in dysregulation of angiotensin signaling and subsequent inflammation and tissue injury. These responses result in increased signaling by thrombin (proteinase-activated) and purinergic receptors, which promote platelet activation and exert pathological effects on other cell types (e.g., endothelial cells, epithelial cells, and fibroblasts), further enhancing inflammation and injury. Inhibitors of thrombin and purinergic receptors may, thus, have therapeutic effects by blunting platelet-mediated thromboinflammation and dysfunction in other cell types. Such inhibitors include agents (e.g., anti-platelet drugs) approved for other indications, and that could be repurposed to treat, and potentially improve the outcome of, COVID-19 patients. COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, drives dysregulation of angiotensin signaling, which, in turn, increases thrombin-mediated and purinergic-mediated activation of platelets and increase in inflammation. This thromboinflammation impacts the lungs and can also have systemic effects. Inhibitors of receptors that drive platelet activation or inhibitors of the coagulation cascade provide opportunities to treat COVID-19 thromboinflammation.
Medicinal Plants Used to Manage Human and Livestock Ailments in Raya Kobo District of Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Osman Ashenafi , Sbhatu Desta Berhe , Giday Mirutse
Published: October 2020

Plant‐based traditional medicine is practiced in Raya Kobo district, Amhara Regional State, Northeastern Ethiopia, to manage different human and livestock ailments. However, the formal ethnobotanical survey that documented such knowledge is lacking. Therefore, the aim of this study was to document the traditional knowledge on the use of medicinal plants to manage human and livestock ailments in the district. The study was conducted from January to July 2017 in five purposefully selected kebeles of the district. Ethnobotanical data were collected mainly using semistructured interviews conducted with 150 informants. In the five kebeles, 30 informants (15 males and 15 females) were selected using the stratified random sampling method from a list of traditional practitioners and knowledgeable individuals. Data were analyzed by employing descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The study documented a total of 91 medicinal plant species (distributed in 51 families) used in managing 38 human and 12 livestock ailments. Out of the total recorded plants species, 74 and 17 were used in managing human and livestock ailments, respectively. Leaves were the most frequently used plant parts in the preparation of remedies, accounting for 53.1% of the total preparations. The three most common methods of remedy preparation were grinding/pounding (23.5%), crushing (19.8%), and boiling (14.5%). Preference ranking conducted by selected informants on eight medicinal plants used in treating human febrile illness locally called “mich” revealed that Ocimum urticifolium is the most preferred medicinal plant—an indication of its high potency against the disease, and therefore needs to be prioritized for future scientific investigation. The result of this study demonstrated the rich traditional knowledge and practices in the district on the use of medicinal plants in treating various human and livestock ailments. Deforestation and drought were reported to be the major factors in the district threatening the medicinal plants and the associated knowledge. Thus, concerted efforts have to be made to conserve this important heritage using every possible means.
Adaptive High-Order Finite Difference Analysis of 2D Quenching-Type Convection-Reaction-Diffusion Equation
Authors: Zhu Xiaoliang , Ge Yongbin
Published: October 2020

Quenching characteristics based on the two-dimensional (2D) nonlinear unsteady convection-reaction-diffusion equation are creatively researched. The study develops a 2D compact finite difference scheme constructed by using the first and the second central difference operator to approximate the first-order and the second-order spatial derivative, Taylor series expansion rule, and the reminder-correction method to approximate the three-order and the four-order spatial derivative, respectively, and the forward difference scheme to discretize temporal derivative, which brings the accuracy resulted meanwhile. Influences of degenerate parameter, convection parameter, and the length of the rectangle definition domain on quenching behaviors and performances of special quenching cases are discussed and evaluated by using the proposed scheme on the adaptive grid. It is feasible for the paper to offer potential support for further research on quenching problem.
Network Pharmacology Strategy to Investigate the Pharmacological Mechanism of HuangQiXiXin Decoction on Cough Variant Asthma and Evidence‐Based Medicine Approach Validation
Authors: Xia Qingqing , Liu Mingtao , Li Hui , Tian Lijun , Qi Jia , Zhang Yufeng
Published: October 2020

Objective. To investigate the pharmacological mechanism of HuangQiXiXin decoction (HQXXD) on cough variant asthma (CVA) and validate the clinical curative effect. Methods. The active compounds and target genes of HQXXD were searched using TCMSP. CVA‐related target genes were obtained using the GeneCards database. The active target genes of HQXXD were compared with the CVA‐related target genes to identify candidate target genes of HQXXD acting on CVA. A medicine‐compound‐target network was constructed using Cytoscape 3.6.0 software, and a protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the STRING database. Gene ontology (GO) function enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were performed using RGUI3.6.1 and Cytoscape 3.6.0. We searched the main database for randomized controlled trials of HQXXD for CVA. We assessed the quality of the included studies using the Cochrane Reviewers’ Handbook. A meta‐analysis of the clinical curative effect of HQXXD for CVA was conducted using the Cochrane Collaboration’s RevMan 5.3 software. Results. We screened out 48 active compounds and 217 active target genes of HQXXD from TCMSP. The 217 active target genes of HQXXD were compared with the 1481 CVA‐related target genes, and 132 candidate target genes for HQXXD acting on CVA were identified. The medicine‐compound‐target network and PPI network were constructed, and the key compounds and key targets were selected. GO function enrichment and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were performed. Meta‐analysis showed that the total effective rate of the clinical curative effect was significantly higher in the experimental group than the control group. Conclusion. The pharmacological mechanism of HQXXD acting on CVA has been further determined, and the clinical curative effect of HQXXD on CVA is remarkable.
Assessment of Prevalence and Risk Factors for Intestinal Parasitosis, Malnutrition, and Anemia among School Children in Ghindae Area, Eritrea
Authors: Kesete Yafet , Tesfahiwet Huruy , Fessehaye Ghimja , Kidane Yohana , Tekle Yafet , Yacob Asmerom , Seltene Biemnet
Published: October 2020

Background. Research studies on determination of risk factors for intestinal parasitic infections and related malnutrition and anemia in various tropical areas are necessary for appropriate preventive resource allocation and cost effective control. This study is aimed at evaluating the prevalence and risk factors of intestinal parasitosis, malnutrition, and anemia amongst elementary and junior school students in Ghindae area, Eritrea. Method. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 6 schools around Ghindae from February to April 2018. 460 children were selected randomly for analysis and consent was taken from guardians. The pertinent sociodemographic data was collected using a pretested questionnaire, and anthropometric measurements were carried out to determine the proportion of students with malnutrition, stunting, and thinness. Fecal samples were examined by formal-ether concentration technique, and blood specimen was collected and analyzed for the assessment of hemoglobin using Hemocue analyzers. The association between predictors and outcome variables were measured with a stepwise logistic regression model. Result. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitosis was 45.3%. Protozoan infections (38.2%) were more prevalent than soil-transmitted helminthic infections (10.4%). The presence of different intestinal parasitic infections had statistically significant association with the residence area, hand washing habits, source of drinking water, and type of latrine used. The prevalence of malnutrition was 36.9% with 18.5% stunting and 21.2% thinness. Students of rural areas had 2.03 times more odds of having malnutrition. The current prevalence of anemia was 12.4%, out of which 7.6% had mild anemia while 4.4% of them had moderate anemia and 0.4% were severely anemic. Conclusion. The prevalence of parasitic infection among school-age children in Ghindae area was high. Unsafe drinking water sources from streams and springs were among the core problems for increased prevalence along with decreased awareness on personal hygienic and sanitation practices. Undernutrition was widely prevalent among students in Ghindae area. Height for age and BMI for age scores of all participants were found to be below the WHO growth standards. Malnutrition was in higher prevalence in rural areas outside Ghindae, which is attributed to two times higher odds than their counterparts. The magnitude of anemia found in this study is considered a mild public health problem.
Efficacy of Bloodletting Therapy in Patients with Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Ma Biru , Chen Xiuhua , Liang Yudan , Ouyang Weiquan , Tang Boyan , Meng Fanqi , Quan Xiaohong , Wang Cong , Li Ying , Chen Dacan
Published: October 2020

Objective. To assess the efficacy of bloodletting therapy (acupoint pricking and cupping) in patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) in a randomized, control, parallel‐group trial. Methods. A total of 174 patients with CIU enrolled from March 2018 to October 2019 were randomized into three groups: group A treated with bloodletting therapy and ebastine, group B treated with placebo treatment (acupoint pseudopricking and cupping) and ebastine, and group C treated with ebastine only. The intention‐to‐treat analysis was conducted, and the primary outcome was the effective rate of UAS7 score being reduced to 7 or below after treatment phase. Results. The effective rates at the end of treatment phase were different among the three groups (P < 0.05), which were 73.7% in group A, 45.6% in group B, and 42.9% in group C. Multiple analysis indicated differences between groups A and B (P < 0.0125) and groups A and C (P < 0.0125) and no difference between groups B and C (P > 0.0125). No severe bloodletting therapy‐related adverse events were observed. Conclusions. In this study on patients with CIU, one month of bloodletting therapy combined with ebastine is clinically beneficial compared with placebo treatment combined with ebastine and treatment with ebastine only. Thus, bloodletting therapy can be an effective complementary treatment in CIU. This trial is registered with ChiCTR1800015294.
Application of Nanosystems Synergized by Optics and Chemotherapy in the Treatment of Sports Rehabilitation Diseases
Authors: Peng Zhiwei , Li Xianxiong , Zhang Yu
Published: October 2020

With the rapid development of sports in my country, many athletes will have mild or severe diseases. Physical rehabilitation can improve their physical pain, and some more serious diseases require optical and chemotherapy treatments. This article mainly studies the application of nanosystems that cooperate with optical and chemotherapy in the treatment of sports rehabilitation diseases. In the experiment, the bacteria-infected mice in the wound were divided into 5 groups (n = 4), and the mouse wound model was made. After that, the number of bacteria remaining in the wound was determined by the plate count method. At the same time, a cytotoxicity test was performed, and a control experiment was performed on the cell culture of the polymer at a concentration below the VCR and CMC values. The final sections were used for tissue analysis of serine and epoxy staining. It was found from the experimental data that the cumulative release of free CLB molecules within 3 hours almost reached 100%, and its rapid release was attributed to its small molecular size. In contrast, the release of CLB-HDH micelles in 3 h is 62%, which has a certain relaxation effect. The results showed that CLB-HDH micelles significantly inhibited tumor growth, had good safety in vivo, and had low systemic toxicity. CLB-HDH micelles provide new ideas for efficient CLB tumor treatment.
Numerical Analysis of the Mechanical Behavior and Failure Mode of Jointed Rock under Uniaxial Tensile Loading
Authors: Zhao Yang , Wu Yongning , Xu Qing , Jiang Lishuai , Huang Wanpeng , Zhang Peipeng , Niu Zhongtao
Published: October 2020

In the field of rock engineering, tensile failure is one of the most significant failure modes due to the presence of joints/fractures. However, due to the limitations of current laboratory testing, it is difficult to carry out direct tensile tests on jointed rock specimens in the laboratory. To study the effect of joints on the mechanical behavior and failure mode of jointed rock specimens, a three‐point modeling method that can consider arbitrarily arranged rock joints is deduced and applied to discrete element simulation. The effects of different joint angles (the inclination angle α, rotation angle β, and superimposed angle γ of α and β, where γ is the angle between the joint and horizontal plane), the density (n), and the rate of cutting area (RCA) of the specimen loading surface (LSS) on the tensile strength (σt), elastic modulus in tension (Et), and failure mode of the specimens were analyzed. The results show that the joint angle (considering α, β, and γ) and RCA have a significant effect on the resulting σt and failure mode, while n has a significant effect on Et. The failure mode of the specimen changes from tensile failure along the joint to direct tensile failure of the specimen as γ increases, and the mechanical behavior transitions from unstable to stable. In addition, the main influence of γ on the mechanical behavior of specimens is revealed, and the change process of the failure mode after the cutting of the LSS is analyzed. The present research can be utilized for multiple purposes, including the joint development of surrounding rock and failure dominated by tensile failure in underground engineering, especially for tunnels, roadways, chambers, and so forth.
Explaining Consumers’ Intention for Traceable Pork regarding Animal Disease: The Role of Food Safety Concern, Risk Perception, Trust, and Habit
Authors: Dang Huy Duc , Tran Giang Thanh
Published: October 2020

Purpose. The aim of this paper is to explain a consumers’ intention for traceable food in the context of the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak, in order to provide scientific knowledge for the government’s intervention to mitigate the perceived risk and to promote the development of traceable food. Methodology. This research employed an extended theory of planned behavior (TPB) model in predicting purchase intention/attitude toward traceable pork. The structural equation analysis (SEM) was used on a sample of 230 students in Vietnam. Findings. The current context of food safety issues, as well as animal disease outbreak, is beneficial to direct consumption toward traceable products. Heterogeneous impacts of trust were confirmed on how consumers perceived risks associated with the ASF outbreak. Consumers’ habits of shopping places and looking for the product origin incite the positive attitude toward traceable pork. Food safety concerns also promoted a positive purchase attitude. Originality/Value. The study’s objective is first to equip knowledge regarding the consumers’ intention toward traceable food under the impact of animal disease, particularly in the context of food safety issues in Vietnam. Extended knowledge promotes tailored policies to regain consumers’ confidence and facilitate the development of traceable food.
Advanced Temperature-Varied ECU Fingerprints for Source Identification and Intrusion Detection in Controller Area Networks
Authors: Tian Miaoqing , Jiang Ruobing , Qu Haipeng , Lu Qian , Zhou Xiaoyun
Published: October 2020

External wireless interfaces and the lack of security design of controller area network (CAN) standards make it vulnerable to CAN-targeting attacks. Unfortunately, various defense solutions have been proposed merely to detect CAN intrusion attacks, while only a few works are devoted to intrusion source identification. Demonstrated by our experimental studies, the most advanced IDS with intrusion source identification, which is based on the physical feature fingerprints of the in-vehicle Electronic Control Units (ECUs), will fail when the temperature changes. In this paper, we innovatively propose temperature-varied fingerprinting, called TVF, for CAN intrusion detection and intrusion source identification. Motivated by the remarkable observation that the physical feature of an ECU, i.e., its clock offset, changes linearly with the temperature of ECUs, the concept of temperature-varied fingerprints is proposed. Then, for a severe intrusion case, we provide an advanced TVF for further supplemented and expanded. The proposed advanced temperature-varied fingerprinting is implemented, and extensive performance evaluation experiments are conducted in both CAN bus prototype and real vehicles. The experimental results illustrate the effectiveness and performance of advanced TVF.