bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying and bridging the knowledge-to-practice gaps in rehabilitation professionals working with at-risk infants in the public health sector of South Africa: a multimethod study protocol
Authors: Govender Pragashnie
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Early childhood is a critical time when the benefits of early interventions are intensified, and the adverse effects of risk can be reduced. For the optimal provision of early intervention, professionals in the field are required to have specialised knowledge and skills in implementing these programmes. In the context of South Africa, there is evidence to suggest that therapists are ill-prepared to handle the unique challenges posed in neonatal intensive care units and wards with at-risk infants in the first few weeks of life. This is attributed to several reasons; however, irrespective of the causative factors, the need to bridge this knowledge-to-practice gap remains essential.

Methods and analysis

This study is a multimethod stakeholder-driven study using a scoping review followed by an appreciative inquiry and Delphi process that will aid in the development, implementation and evaluation of a knowledge translation intervention to bridge knowledge-gaps in occupational and physiotherapists working in the field. Therapists currently working in the public health sector will be recruited for participation in the various stages of the study. The analysis will occur via thematic analysis for qualitative data and percentages and frequencies for descriptive quantitative data. Issues around trustworthiness and rigour, and reliability and validity, will be ensured within each of the phases, by use of a content validity index and inter-rater reliability for the Delphi survey; thick descriptions, peer debriefing, member checking and an audit trail for the qualitative data.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has received full ethical approval from the Health Research and Knowledge Management Directorate of the Department of Health and a Biomedical Research Ethics Committee. The results will be published in peer-reviewed academic journals and disseminated to the relevant stakeholders within this study.
Development of salient medication reminders to facilitate information transfer during transition from inpatient to primary care: the Delphi process
Authors: Wong Eliza Lai-Yi , Tang Kam-Shing , Cheung Annie Wai-Ling , Sze Ringo Kin-Cheung , Lau Jack Chi-Him , Mok Francis Chun-Keung , Yam Ping-Wa , Chan Jonathan Yui-Kin , Lao Wai-Cheung , Mak Siu-Ka , Chan Tak-Yeung , Tsang Steven Woon-Choy , Lee Jenny Shun-Wah , Wong Maureen Mo-Lin , Leung Chi-Shing , Chan Kam-Hon , Luk James Ka-Hay , Fung Sze-Yuen , Lui Siu-Fai , Yeoh Eng-Kiong
Published: May 2021

Objective

Transitional care is important to successful hospital discharge. Providing patients with a clear and concise summary of medication-related information can help improve outcomes, in particular, among older adults. The present study aimed to propose a framework for the development of salient medication reminders (SMR), which include drug-related risks and precautions, using the Delphi process.

Design

Identification of potential SMR statements for 80% of medication types used by older adult patients discharged from geriatric medicine departments, followed by a Delphi survey and expert panel discussion.

Settings

Medical and geriatric departments of public hospitals in Hong Kong.

Participants

A panel of 13 geriatric medical experts.

Outcome measure

A Likert scale ranging from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree) points, scoring item relevance, importance and clarity. The minimum of 70% consensus was required for each statement to be included.

Results

The expert panel achieved consensus through the Delphi process on 80 statements for 44 medication entities. Subsequently, the SMR steering group endorsed the inclusion of these statements in the SMR to be disseminated among older adults at the time of discharge from geriatric medicine departments.

Conclusions

The Delphi process contributed to the development of SMR for older adult patients discharged from public hospitals in Hong Kong. Patient experience with and staff response to the SMR were assessed at four hospitals before implementation at all public hospitals.
Refining clinical algorithms for a neonatal digital platform for low-income countries: a modified Delphi technique
Authors: Evans Mari , Corden Mark H , Crehan Caroline , Fitzgerald Felicity , Heys Michelle
Published: May 2021

Objectives

To determine whether a panel of neonatal experts could address evidence gaps in local and international neonatal guidelines by reaching a consensus on four clinical decision algorithms for a neonatal digital platform (NeoTree).

Design

Two-round, modified Delphi technique.

Setting and participants

Participants were neonatal experts from high-income and low-income countries (LICs).

Methods

This was a consensus-generating study. In round 1, experts rated items for four clinical algorithms (neonatal sepsis, hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy, respiratory distress of the newborn, hypothermia) and justified their responses. Items meeting consensus for inclusion (≥80% agreement) were incorporated into the algorithms. Items not meeting consensus were either excluded, included following revisions or included if they contained core elements of evidence-based guidelines. In round 2, experts rated items from round 1 that did not reach consensus.

Results

Fourteen experts participated in round 1, 10 in round 2. Nine were from high-income countries, five from LICs. Experts included physicians and nurse practitioners with an average neonatal experience of 20 years, 12 in LICs. After two rounds, a consensus was reached on 43 of 84 items (52%). Per experts’ recommendations, items in line with local and WHO guidelines yet not meeting consensus were still included to encourage consistency for front-line healthcare workers. As a result, the final algorithms included 53 items (62%).

Conclusion

Four algorithms in a neonatal digital platform were reviewed and refined by consensus expert opinion. Revisions to NeoTree will be made in response to these findings. Next steps include clinical validation of the algorithms.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and related control measures on cancer diagnosis in Catalonia: a time-series analysis of primary care electronic health records covering about five million people
Authors: Coma Ermengol , Guiriguet Carolina , Mora Nuria , Marzo-Castillejo Mercè , Benítez Mencia , Méndez-Boo Leonardo , Fina Francesc , Fàbregas Mireia , Mercadé Albert , Medina Manuel
Published: May 2021

Objective

Cancer care has been disrupted by the response of health systems to the COVID-19 pandemic, especially during lockdowns. The objective of our study is to evaluate the impact of the pandemic on the incidence of cancer diagnoses in primary care.

Design

Time-series study of malignant neoplasms and diagnostic procedures, using data from the primary care electronic health records from January 2014 to September 2020.

Setting

Primary care, Catalonia, Spain.

Participants

People older than 14 years and assigned in one of the primary care practices of the Catalan Institute of Health with a new diagnosis of malignant neoplasm.

Main outcome measures

We obtained the monthly expected incidence of malignant neoplasms using a temporary regression, where the response variable was the incidence of cancer from 2014 to 2018 and the adjustment variables were the trend and seasonality of the time series. Excess or lack of malignant neoplasms was defined as the number of observed minus expected cases, globally and stratified by sex, age, type of cancer and socioeconomic status.

Results

Between March and September 2020 we observed 8766 (95% CI 4135 to 13 397) fewer malignant neoplasm diagnoses, representing a reduction of 34% (95% CI 19.5% to 44.1%) compared with the expected. This underdiagnosis was greater in individuals aged older than 64 years, men and in some types of cancers (skin, colorectal, prostate). Although the reduction was predominantly focused during the lockdown, expected figures have not yet been reached (40.5% reduction during the lockdown and 24.3% reduction after that).

Conclusions

Reduction in cancer incidence has been observed during and after the lockdown. Urgent policy interventions are necessary to mitigate the indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and related control measures on other diseases and some strategies must be designed in order to reduce the underdiagnosis of cancer.
Protocol for a systematic review assessing ambulatory vital sign monitoring impact on deterioration detection and related clinical outcomes in hospitalised patients
Authors: Areia Carlos , Vollam Sarah , Young Louise , Biggs Christopher , Pimentel Marco , Santos Mauro , Thurley Neal , Gerry Stephen , Tarassenko Lionel , Watkinson Peter
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Ambulatory monitoring systems (AMS) can facilitate early detection of clinical deterioration, and have the potential to improve hospitalised patient outcomes. The objective of this systematic review is to assess the impact of vital signs monitoring on detection of deterioration and related outcomes in hospitalised patients using AMS, in comparison with standard care.

Methods and analysis

A systematic search was conducted on 27 August 2020 in MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CENTRAL and Health Technology Assessment databases, as well as grey literature. Search results will be reviewed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis checklist for systematic reviews. Studies comparing the use of ambulatory monitoring devices against standard care for deterioration detection and related clinical outcomes in hospitalised patients will be included and further clinical and other outcomes will also be explored. Deterioration-related outcomes may include (but not limited to) unplanned intensive care admissions, rapid response team activation and unscheduled emergency interventions, as defined by the included studies. Two reviewers will independently extract study data and assess the quality and risk of bias of included studies. Where possible, a meta-analysis will be conducted and quantitative results presented. Alternatively, a narrative synthesis will be reported.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for this study as no primary data will be collected. This study is part of our virtual High Dependency Unit project and will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, public and scientific conference presentations.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020188633.
Effect of antiamyloid-β drugs on Alzheimer’s disease: study protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lyu Diyang , Shi Yuqing , Lyu Xuanxin
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease with a complex aetiology involving multiple targets and pathways. With the continuous growth of the ageing population, the burden of AD is increasing year by year. However, there has not been new drug approved for over a decade. In addition, the efficacy of memantine and cholinesterase inhibitors is not satisfactory. As amyloid-β (Aβ) is regarded as the core pathological change and the trigger mechanism of AD, anti-Aβ therapy may be an effective therapy. In recent years, a lot of clinical trials have been carried out in this field, but the results have not been well summarised and analysed.

Methods and analysis

In this study, we will study the effect of anti-Aβ antibodies versus placebo on the clinical efficacy, biomarkers, neuroimaging and safety in different stages of AD, as well as the factors that may affect the efficacy. Drugs that only target the existing Aβ are regarded as anti-Aβ antibodies. Following electronic databases will be searched from inception to April 2021: Medline-Ovid, EMBase-Ovid, Cochrane Central and clinical trial registration platform ClinicalTrials.gov. After identifying eligible studies through screening title, abstract and read full text of each retrieved literature, we will contact the correspondence authors for additional information and grey literatures. To get more reliable results, random effect model will be conducted for meta-analysis and analysis of subgroups or subsets. Funnel plot, Egger’s test and sensitivity analysis will be conducted to explore potential heterogeneity. Meta-regression will be conducted to identify the factors that may affect clinical efficacy. Evidence quality assessment and trial sequential analysis will be conducted to assess the quality of evidence and confirm the reliability of the results in this study.

Ethics and discussion

This study does not require formal ethical approval. The findings will be submitted to a peer-review journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020202370.
Effects of neuromuscular training on knee proprioception in individuals with anterior cruciate ligament injury: a systematic review and GRADE evidence synthesis
Authors: Arumugam Ashokan , Björklund Martin , Mikko Sanna , Häger Charlotte K
Published: May 2021

Objective

To systematically review and summarise the evidence for the effects of neuromuscular training compared with any other therapy (conventional training/sham) on knee proprioception following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

Design

Systematic Review.

Data sources

PubMed, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, AMED, Scopus and Physical Education Index were searched from inception to February 2020.

Eligibility criteria

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials investigating the effects of neuromuscular training on knee-specific proprioception tests following a unilateral ACL injury were included.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two reviewers independently screened and extracted data and assessed risk of bias of the eligible studies using the Cochrane risk of bias 2 tool. Overall certainty in evidence was determined using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) tool.

Results

Of 2706 articles retrieved, only 9 RCTs, comprising 327 individuals with an ACL reconstruction (ACLR), met the inclusion criteria. Neuromuscular training interventions varied across studies: whole body vibration therapy, Nintendo-Wii-Fit training, balance training, sport-specific exercises, backward walking, etc. Outcome measures included joint position sense (JPS; n=7), thresholds to detect passive motion (TTDPM; n=3) or quadriceps force control (QFC; n=1). Overall, between-group mean differences indicated inconsistent findings with an increase or decrease of errors associated with JPS by ≤2°, TTDPM by ≤1.5° and QFC by ≤6 Nm in the ACLR knee following neuromuscular training. Owing to serious concerns with three or more GRADE domains (risk of bias, inconsistency, indirectness or imprecision associated with the findings) for each outcome of interest across studies, the certainty of evidence was very low.

Conclusions

The heterogeneity of interventions, methodological limitations, inconsistency of effects (on JPS/TTDPM/QFC) preclude recommendation of one optimal neuromuscular training intervention for improving proprioception following ACL injury in clinical practice. There is a need for methodologically robust RCTs with homogenous populations with ACL injury (managed conservatively or with reconstruction), novel/well-designed neuromuscular training and valid proprioception assessments, which also seem to be lacking.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018107349.
Home phototherapy for neonatal jaundice in the UK: a single-centre retrospective service evaluation and parental survey
Authors: Noureldein Mona , Mupanemunda Grace , McDermott Helen , Pettit Katy , Mupanemunda Richard
Published: May 2021

Background

In the UK setting, where neonatal jaundice treatment is required, it is largely carried out in hospitals. However, it is possible to safely administer home phototherapy (HPT).

Objective

To report on our centre’s experience of HPT and its potential benefits.

Design

Retrospective observational study performed as a service evaluation.

Patients

Infants ≥35 weeks corrected gestational age with a weight of 2 kg and serum bilirubin ≤50 µmol/L above treatment thresholds. Controls were a matched group of infants who received inpatient phototherapy (IPT).

Setting

The catchment area of two neonatal intensive care units, one special care unit and a birth centre at four different hospitals that is covered by a single neonatal community outreach nursing team in Birmingham, UK.

Intervention

HPT was started either in the community or as a continuation of IPT. Controls received IPT.

Main outcome measures

The rate of bilirubin reduction, hospital readmission rates and parental satisfaction.

Results

100 infants received HPT while 50 received IPT. No infant showed a progressive rise of serum bilirubin level while receiving HPT. The rate of bilirubin reduction was similar in both HPT and IPT groups (2.4±1.9 and 2.5±1.6 µmol/L/hour, respectively, MD=−0.1, 95% CI −0.74 to 0.53, p=0.74). Readmission rate was 3% in the HPT group. 97% of parents stated that the overall experience was good and 98% would choose HPT if they had their time all over again.

Conclusion

Our programme suggests that HPT for neonatal jaundice can be carried out in a select group of infants. It helps in providing holistic family-centred care and is viewed positively by families.
COVID-19 pandemic experiences of parents caring for children with oesophageal atresia/tracheo-oesophageal fistula
Authors: Stewart Alexandra , Smith Christina H , Eaton Simon , De Coppi Paolo , Wray Jo
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a global health crisis of unparalleled magnitude. The direct risk to the health of children is low. However, disease-containment measures have society-wide impacts. This study explored the pandemic experiences of parents of children with oesophageal atresia/tracheo-oesophageal fistula (OA/TOF) in the UK.

Design

A phenomenological approach underpinned use of an asynchronous online forum method, in collaboration with a patient support group. Data were evaluated using thematic analysis.

Results

The online forum ran between 7 November and 18 December 2020 with 109 participants.

Pandemic experiences were divided into themes relating to healthcare and disease containment. Participants described positive experiences with remote healthcare but identified limitations. Delays and cancellations led to escalation of care to an emergency level, slower developmental progress and feelings of being abandoned by services. Inpatient care was perceived as safe but caring alone was emotionally and practically challenging. Disease containment themes revealed anxiety regarding health risks, ‘collateral’ damage to well-being because of isolation, and an impact on finances and employment. Parents described a transition from worry about direct health risks to concern about the impact of isolation on socialisation and development. A process of risk–benefit analysis led some to transition to a more ‘normal life’, while others continued to isolate. Benefits to their child’s health from isolation were reported.

Conclusions

Parents’ experiences of caring for a child with OA/TOF during the pandemic were varied. Rapid adoption of telehealth has demonstrated the enormous potential of remote healthcare delivery but requires refinement to meet the needs of the individual. Future pandemic planning should aim to retain community healthcare services to avoid escalation of care to an emergency, manage chronic and developmental concerns, and support parental well-being. Accurate and consistent disease-specific information is highly valued by parents. Third sector organisations are ideally positioned to support this.
Single-cell multiomics dissection of basal and antigen-specific activation states of CD19-targeted CAR T cells
Authors: Bai Zhiliang , Lundh Stefan , Kim Dongjoo , Woodhouse Steven , Barrett David M , Myers Regina M , Grupp Stephan A , Maus Marcela V , June Carl H , Camara Pablo G , Melenhorst J Joseph , Fan Rong
Published: May 2021

Background

Autologous T cells engineered to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) specific for CD19 molecule have transformed the therapeutic landscape in patients with highly refractory leukemia and lymphoma, and the use of donor-generated allogeneic CAR T is paving the way for further breakthroughs in the treatment of cancer. However, it remains unknown how the intrinsic heterogeneities of these engineered cells mediate therapeutic efficacy and whether allogeneic products match the effectiveness of autologous therapies.

Methods

Using single-cell mRNA sequencing in conjunction with CITE-seq, we performed multiomics characterization of CAR T cells generated from healthy donor and patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. CAR T cells used in this study were manufactured at the University of Pennsylvania through lentiviral transduction with a CD19-4-1BB-CD3ζ construct. Besides the baseline condition, we engineered NIH-3T3 cells with human CD19 or mesothelin expression to conduct ex vivo antigen-specific or non-antigen stimulation of CAR T cells through 6-hour coculture at a 1:1 ratio.

Results

We delineated the global cellular and molecular CAR T landscape and identified that transcriptional CAR tonic signaling was regulated by a mixture of early activation, exhaustion signatures, and cytotoxic activities. On CD19 stimulation, we illuminated the disparities of CAR T cells derived from different origins and found that donor CAR T had more pronounced activation level in correlation with the upregulation of major histocompatibility complex class II genes compared with patient CAR T cells. This finding was independently validated in additional datasets from literature. Furthermore, GM-CSF(CSF2) expression was found to be associated with functional gene productions, but it induced little impact on the CAR T activation.

Conclusions

Through integrated multiomics profiling and unbiased canonical pathway analyses, our results unveil heterogeneities in the transcriptional, phenotypic, functional, and metabolic profiles of donor and patient CAR T cells, providing mechanistic basis for ameliorating clinical outcomes and developing next-generation ‘off- the-shelf’ allogeneic products.
Diagnostic role of coronary CT angiography in paroxysmal or first diagnosed atrial fibrillation
Authors: Rottländer Dennis , Saal Martin , Degen Hubertus , Gödde Miriel , Horlitz Marc , Haude Michael
Published: May 2021

Objectives

The presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients hospitalised with paroxysmal or first diagnosed atrial fibrillation (AF) has major implications for antithrombotic therapy and cardiovascular event rate. Coronary CT angiography (CCTA) is a feasible tool to identify patients with concealed CAD. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic role of early CCTA in patients hospitalised with paroxysmal or first diagnosed AF.

Methods

In a 5-year single-centre retrospective analysis, 566 patients with paroxysmal or first diagnosed AF who underwent CCTA were enrolled to investigate the presence of CAD.

Results

In patients with paroxysmal or first diagnosed AF, CCTA revealed CAD (coronary artery stenosis ≥50%) in 39.2%. Cardiac catheterisation was performed in 31.6%, confirming CAD in 13.1% of all patients. In 8.0% percutaneous coronary intervention and in 0.5% coronary artery bypass grafting was performed. In patients with paroxysmal or first diagnosed AF: (1) angina pectoris per se does not predict CAD; (2) multivariable regression analysis revealed age, male sex and diabetes as risk factors for CAD in AF; (3) Framingham Risk Score for coronary heart disease and CHA2DS2-VASc-Score were relevant risk scores of CAD and (4) the classification of Coronary Artery Calcium score reference values according to the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis was a predictor of CAD.

Conclusion

Patients with paroxysmal or first diagnosed AF are at risk for CAD, while CCTA is a feasible diagnostic tool for CAD. We recommend to integrate CT calcium scoring and CCTA into the diagnostic workup of patients with new-onset or paroxysmal AF.
Heating triangle singularities in heavy ion collisions
Authors: Abreu Luciano M. , Llanes-Estrada Felipe J.
Published: May 2021

We predict that triangle singularities of hadron spectroscopy can be strongly affected in heavy ion collisions. To do it we examine various effects on the singularity-inducing triangle loop of finite temperature in the terminal hadron phase. It appears that peaks seen in central heavy ion collisions are more likely to be hadrons than rescattering effects under two conditions. First, the flight-time of the intermediate hadron state must be comparable to the lifetime of the equilibrated fireball (else, the reaction mostly happens in vacuo after freeze out). Second, the medium effect over the triangle-loop particle mass or width must be sizeable. When these (easily checked) conditions are met, the medium quickly reduces the singularity: at T about 150 MeV, even by two orders of magnitude, acting then as a spectroscopic filter.
Nonlocal SU(5) GUT
Authors: Krasnikov N. V.
Published: May 2021

We show that in nonlocal generalization of standard nonsupersymmetric SU(5) GUT, it is possible to solve the problems with the proton lifetime and the Weinberg angle without introduction of additional particles in the spectrum of the theory. Nonlocal scale [Formula: see text] responsible for ultraviolet cutoff coincides (up to some factor) with GUT scale [Formula: see text]. We find that in the simplest nonlocal modification of the SU(5) model, [Formula: see text]GeV. In the general case, the value of [Formula: see text] is an arbitrary and the most interesting option [Formula: see text] could be realized.
Carbon nanotubes produced from rubber fruit shell activated carbon
Authors: Suhdi  , Wang Sheng-Chang
Published: May 2021

This study used rubber fruit shells (RFS) as raw material for making carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The CNTs were carried out by hydrothermal process at low-temperature after carbonization and chemical activation was done. This experiment succeeded in obtaining a bundle of MWCNT (Multi-Wall Nanotube) from the raw material of RFS. The results of characterization using SEM and TEM showed that the resulting CNTs were not homogeneous in diameter, ranging from 13 to 455 nm, with an average diameter of about 179 nm. XRD was used to identify crystallographic structure; it has two peaks 2[Formula: see text] at around 26.0 and 44.0, index to 002 and 101 reflections hexagonal graphite diffraction of the MWCNTs. This study can provide an alternative inexpensive raw material and a simple method to obtain carbon nanotubes.
Liquid exfoliation of graphene oxide nanoribbons using chemical assisted laser ablation
Authors: Dhongade Siddhant , Koinkar Pankaj , Furube Akihiro , Sugano Satoshi
Published: May 2021

The interest toward two-dimensional (2D) materials is gradually increasing because of their structure at nanoscale and great importance for electronic and optical applications. In this study, we show the synthesis of graphene oxide (GO) micro-ribbons fabricated by chemical assisted-laser ablation method. In order to confirm the formation of GO, UV-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis) and Raman spectroscopy are used to observe the surface morphological feature and structural details. In addition, a possible mechanism for the growth of GO nanoribbon is discussed. This work indicates a new method to develop GO nanostructures and related nanomaterials.
Development of multi-layered sewer pipe plug — 2nd report: Tensile strength of protective sheet bonded by seams
Authors: Noda Nao-Aki , Gao Geng , Tottori Hisanori , Takaki Rei , Sano Yoshikazu , Kai Akira
Published: May 2021

Since Japanese sewer system is becoming obsolete, it is necessary to reinforce and repair the system without stopping sewer functions. In this study, a multi-layered sewer pipe plug consisting of a protective sheet and inner and outer rubber balls is focused to be installed and removed conveniently at the construction site. In this paper, a suitable testing method and the strength of the protective sheet are discussed experimentally by changing the specimen geometry providing slit and seams. It is found that the slit specimen is most desirable to obtain the standard tensile strength of UHMWPE cloth named Izanas cloth. It is found that the seamed strength is [Formula: see text] MPa, which is about 17% of the standard tensile strength [Formula: see text] MPa.
Development of multi-layered sewer pipe plug — 3rd report: Tensile strength of protective sheet bonded by adhesive
Authors: Noda Nao-Aki , Tottori Hisanori , Gao Geng , Takaki Rei , Sano Yoshikazu , Kai Akira
Published: May 2021

Since the sewer system in Japan is becoming obsolete, it is, therefore necessary to reinforce or repair without stopping sewer functions by applying a suitable water stopping method. In this study, a multi-layered sewer pipe plug consisting of a protective sheet and inner and outer rubber balls is focused since it can be installed and removed at the construction site in a short time conveniently. Four types of adhesively bonded structures are investigated experimentally by changing bonding processes and adhesives. It is found that the main and base adhesive joint is the most suitable since the pressurized adhesive strength [Formula: see text] MPa is 30% of the standard tensile strength of the protective sheet [Formula: see text] MPa.
Quantitative analysis of surfaces of cross-section in butt welding of aluminum alloy 5083 using laser–arc hybrid welding
Authors: Kim Ji-Sung , Kim Jong-Do
Published: May 2021

The alloy aluminum of 5000 series will have relatively high strength through solid solution strengthening of Mg. However, when laser welding the 5000 series aluminum alloys, the Mg is selectively evaporated by welding heat due to its low melting and vaporization points, resulting in a reduction in the strength of welds. Therefore, laser welding application is difficult because of such a reduction in strength[Formula: see text] [M. Peel, A. Steuwer, M. Preuss and P. J. Withers, Acta Mater. 51, 4791 (2003); A. Haboudou, P. Peyre, A. B. Vannes and G. Peix, Mater. Sci. Eng. A 363, 40 (2003)]. In this paper, welding experiments were carried out using laser and laser–arc hybrids on aluminum alloy 5083 with 8-mm thickness. Tensile testing, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis and electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA) analysis were carried out on specimens on which the laser and laser–arc hybrid weldings were performed. According to the tensile test results, the tensile strength during laser–arc hybrid welding was greater than 85% of the parent metal. In addition, EPMA analysis showed that the strength of the laser–arc hybrid welds was maintained by supplementing the optional evaporating Mg element, since they use the filler wire.
Photo-enhanced field-emission behavior of CdSSe microflowers
Authors: Deore Amol B. , More Mahendra A. , Musmade Bhausaheb B. , Nerkar Sachin D. , Chavan Padmakar G. , Koinkar Pankaj M.
Published: May 2021

In this work, we synthesized well-grown cadmium sulfoselenide (CdSSe) microflowers on gold-coated silicon substrate using a simple and low-cost chemical bath deposition technique. The deposited CdSSe film was annealed in a furnace for 30 min at [Formula: see text]C. Subsequently, the annealed CdSSe film was further characterized using structural, morphological and field-emission analyses. The CdSSe microflowers show photosensitive field-emission behavior. In the photosensitive field emission, the emission current rises by nearly 2–3 times of its primary preset current value of [Formula: see text]A.
Orthogonality graphs of real Cayley–Dickson algebras. Part II: The subgraph on pairs of basis elements
Authors: Zhilina Svetlana
Published: May 2021

We consider zero divisors of an arbitrary real Cayley–Dickson algebra such that their components are both standard basis elements. We construct inductively the orthogonality graph on these elements. Then we show that, if we restrict our attention to at least [Formula: see text]-dimensional algebras, two algebras are isomorphic if and only if their graphs are isomorphic. We also provide an algorithm to retrieve the Cayley–Dickson parameters of an algebra from its graph.
On the density of Cayley graphs of R.Thompson’s group F in symmetric generators
Authors: Guba V. S.
Published: May 2021

By the density of a finite graph we mean its average vertex degree. For an [Formula: see text]-generated group, the density of its Cayley graph in a given set of generators, is the supremum of densities taken over all its finite subgraphs. It is known that a group with [Formula: see text] generators is amenable if and only if the density of the corresponding Cayley graph equals [Formula: see text].

A famous problem on the amenability of R. Thompson’s group [Formula: see text] is still open. Due to the result of Belk and Brown, it is known that the density of its Cayley graph in the standard set of group generators [Formula: see text], is at least [Formula: see text]. This estimate has not been exceeded so far.

For the set of symmetric generators [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text], the same example only gave an estimate of [Formula: see text]. There was a conjecture that for this generating set equality holds. If so, [Formula: see text] would be non-amenable, and the symmetric generating set would have the doubling property. This would mean that for any finite set [Formula: see text], the inequality [Formula: see text] holds.

In this paper, we disprove this conjecture showing that the density of the Cayley graph of [Formula: see text] in symmetric generators [Formula: see text] strictly exceeds [Formula: see text]. Moreover, we show that even larger generating set [Formula: see text] does not have doubling property.
TRACKING CONTROL AND STABILIZATION OF A FRACTIONAL FINANCIAL RISK SYSTEM USING NOVEL ACTIVE FINITE-TIME FAULT-TOLERANT CONTROLS
Authors: WANG BO , JAHANSHAHI HADI , BEKIROS STELIOS , CHU YU-MING , GÓMEZ-AGUILAR J. F. , ALSAADI FAWAZ E. , ALASSAFI MADINI O.
Published: May 2021

This paper introduces a fractional-order financial risk system for the first time. Employing well-known tools and analyses such as bifurcations diagrams and spectral entropy, the dynamical behaviors of the system associated with fractional derivative are investigated. The impacts of the fractional derivative on the system’s behavior and its dynamical feature are shown. Then, tracking control and stabilization of the systems are studied. As it is obvious, the existence of faults and failures in the process of control of financial and economic systems is undeniable — this issue necessitates applying proper control techniques for the systems. So as to achieve appropriate results in the control of fractional financial risk system, two finite-time fault-tolerant controllers are proposed, namely, finite-time active fault-tolerant control and finite-time passive fault-tolerant control. Not only do these techniques force the system to reach desired values in finite time, but also, the proposed techniques are robust against uncertainties, faults, and failures in actuators. Through finite-time observers, the effects of all uncertainties are taken to account in the active controller. Finally, numerical simulations of tracking control and stabilization are presented. For numerical simulations, the fractional financial risk system is considered to be in the presence of unknown disturbance as well as faults and failures in actuators. It is assumed that the system is in the presence of various types of actuator faults. Numerical results affirm the ability of the offered control techniques for pushing the states of the fractional-order risk system to the desired value in a short period of time.
NON-SPECTRAL PROBLEM FOR CANTOR MEASURES
Authors: DAI XIN-RONG , ZHU MENG
Published: May 2021

The spectral and non-spectral problems of measures have been considered in recent years. For the Cantor measure [Formula: see text], Hu and Lau [Spectral property of the [Formula: see text]ernoulli convolutions, Adv. Math. 219(2) (2008) 554–567] showed that [Formula: see text] contains infinite orthogonal exponentials if and only if [Formula: see text] becomes some type of binomial number. In this paper, we classify the spectral number of the Cantor measure [Formula: see text] except the contraction ratio [Formula: see text] being some algebraic numbers called odd-trinomial number. When [Formula: see text] is an odd-trinomial number, we provide an exponential and polynomial estimations of the upper bound of the spectral number related to the algebraic degree of [Formula: see text]. Some examples on odd-trinomial number via generalized Fibonacci numbers are provided such that the spectral number of them can be determined. Our study involves techniques from polynomial theory, especially the decomposition theory on trinomial.
ON A FAMILY OF SELF-AFFINE IFS WHOSE ATTRACTORS HAVE A NON-FRACTAL TOP
Authors: HARE KEVIN G. , SIDOROV NIKITA
Published: May 2021

Let [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we prove that for the vast majority of such parameters the top of the planar attractor [Formula: see text] of the IFS [Formula: see text] is the graph of a continuous, strictly increasing function. Despite this, for most parameters, [Formula: see text] has a lower box dimension strictly greater than 1, showing that the upper boundary is not representative of the complexity of the fractal. Finally, we prove that if [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] has a non-empty interior.
MAXIMIZING CIRCULAR TILES ON FRACTALS: A FIRST STEP TO OPTIMIZATION IN FRACTALS
Authors: GARCÍA-MIGUEL CARMEN , SAN MARTÍN JESÚS
Published: May 2021

Fractal covering with non-overlapping circular tiles follows a power law, when the circular tiles cover a preset mass of the fractal and their centers are chosen randomly and successively. Once the fractal has been saturated with the circular tiles, the tile size frequency distribution follows a parabolic fractal law. Distribution parameters are related and depend only on fractal dimension and fixed fractal mass of tiles. The distribution of the tiles can be used to optimize the allocation and/or exploitation of resources on fractals.
TESTING FOR EFFECTS OF CROSS-CORRELATIONS ON JOINT MULTIFRACTALITY
Authors: WU LIANG , WANG MANLING , DING YIMING
Published: May 2021

Joint multifractality has been studied in many areas of applied sciences, but few studies focused on the sources of joint multifractality, especially the cross-correlations between two records which play a crucial role in the presence of joint multifractality. To test the effect of cross-correlations on joint multifractality, we propose a de-cross-correlation method via the shifting technique based on the framework of multifractal detrended cross-correlation analysis (MF-DCCA), namely, multifractal detrended de-cross-correlation analysis (MF-DDA). It keeps the original detrending procedure of MF-DCCA. The proposed method is validated via some simulation and real data including multifractal random walk (MRW), daily water levels, and daily stock returns. Results of validation show that the MF-DDA can detect the effects of cross-correlations between simulation series and between real series, and are consistent with the simulation setting of MRW and the actual situation of real data. This proposed method can be extended to other similar joint multifractal analysis methods.
Free and Forced Vibration Characteristics of CNT Reinforced Composite Spherical Sandwich Shell Panels with MR Elastomer Core
Authors: Subramani Mageshwaran , Ramamoorthy Manoharan , Arumugam Ananda Babu , Selvaraj Rajeshkumar
Published: May 2021

In this work, the dynamic behavior of the spherical magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) sandwich shell panel with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) reinforced composite face sheets is studied. The governing differential equation of motion for the (doubly curved) spherical sandwich shell panel is derived based on the Higher-Order Shear Deformation Theory (HSDT) kinematics. In the finite element framework, nine noded iso-parametric elements with nine Degrees of Freedom (DOFs) at each node are considered for solving the numerical problem. The finite element model of the multifunctional MR elastomer core spherical sandwich shell panel is validated against the existing works in terms of natural frequencies on different boundary conditions and magnetic field environment. The influence of MWCNT in the face sheet of the MR elastomer spherical sandwich shell panel is also studied through the structural rigidity. Detailed parametric investigations are performed to study the stiffness and damping characteristics of the shell panel with respect to the magnetic field intensities, thickness ratio, aspect ratio, ply orientation, and boundary conditions on the multifunctional MR elastomer core spherical sandwich shell panel. Also, the transverse vibration study of the MWCNT reinforced spherical sandwich shell with MR elastomer is carried out for different magnetic field intensities and curvatures to assess their effects on the structural performance. This study shows the applicability of the MR elastomer in sandwich shell structure for control of vibration and damping.
Numerical investigation and its application on the falling motion of freefall lifeboat
Authors: Qiu Shaoyang , Ren Hongxiang , Zhang Teng , Qian Xiaobin , Wan Fei , Wang Lei
Published: May 2021

In order to improve the simulation accuracy for free-fall lifeboat in ship life-saving training system, this paper analyzes and models the motion of boat’s launching from the skid. The whole launching is divided into four phases, namely: sliding down, rotation, free fall and water entry. According to the theory of momentum and strip theory, hydrodynamic forces of the boat at water entry are calculated under the effect of waves. The method of interpolation is used for calculating the half width and added mass of cross-sections at water entry. The model is used for numerical investigation about the boat launching from skid under different conditions and applied to ship life-saving simulation training system. The following conclusions are finally obtained: (1) When the initial inclination angle is 30[Formula: see text], the horizontal distance between the point of water entry of the boat and the lower end of the slide is about 7.2[Formula: see text]m. The horizontal distance will be smaller, when the initial inclination angle increases. There is no obvious law between forward distance and waves. (2) When the initial inclination angle is 45[Formula: see text], the setback may occur after the boat entering the wave. When the initial angle is 60[Formula: see text], the setback occurs after the boat entering the water. (3) When the center of gravity is 1.5[Formula: see text]m in front of the midship of the boat, the boat will turn over.
Rapid Research and Assessment on COVID-19 and Climate in New York City
Authors: Kyrkjebo Nora , Parris Adam , Barnes Janice , Azaroff Illya , Balk Deborah , Baptista Ana Isabel , Braneon Christian , Calabrese William , Codrington Treston , Colon Jessica , Gandhi Farzana , George Maureen , Groffman Peter , Gundlach Justin , Carr Rachel Hogan , Holt Nancy , Horton Radley , Jahangir Arthee , Ken-Opurum Bobuchi , Knowlton Kim , Leichenko Robin , Maher Nicole , Marcotullio Peter , Matte Thomas , McComas Katherine , McKay S. Kyle , McPhearson Timon , Moss Richard , Nordenson Guy , Pawlowski Thaddeus , Rajkovich Nicholas , Reed Kevin A. , Schoeman Laurie , Shapiro John , Spiegel-Feld Danielle , Tchen John , Towers Joel , Wagner Gernot
Published: May 2021

In May 2020, the New York City (NYC) Mayor’s Office of Climate Resiliency (MOCR) began convening bi-weekly discussions, called the Rapid Research and Assessment (RRA) Series, between City staff and external experts in science, policy, design, engineering, communications, and planning. The goal was to rapidly develop authoritative, actionable information to help integrate resiliency into the City’s COVID response efforts. The situation in NYC is not uncommon. Extreme events often require government officials, practitioners, and citizens to call upon multiple forms of scientific and technical assistance from rapid data collection to expert elicitation, each spanning more or less involved engagement. We compare the RRA to similar rapid assessment efforts and reflect on the nature of the RRA and similar efforts to exchange and co-produce knowledge. The RRA took up topics on social cohesion, risk communication, resilient and healthy buildings, and engagement, in many cases strengthening confidence in what was already known but also refining the existing knowledge in ways that can be helpful as the pandemic unfolds. Researchers also learned from each other ways to be supportive of the City of New York and MOCR in the future. The RRA network will continue to deepen, continue to co-produce actionable climate knowledge, and continue to value organizational sensemaking as a usable climate service, particularly in highly uncertain times. Given the complex, rare, and, in many cases, unfamiliar context of COVID-19, we argue that organizational sensemaking is a usable climate service.
The Paths to Improve China’s Urbanization Strategy
Authors: YANG Kaizhong
Published: May 2021

Based on The CPC Central Committee’s Proposals for Formulating the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021–2025) for National Economic and Social Development and the Long-Range Objectives Through the Year 2035, this paper proposes three paths to improve China’s urbanization strategy. First, the emphasis should be shifted from demographic urbanization to farmers’ citizenization, thus clearing the barriers against free flow of population and productive factors, and advancing equal rights of urban residents so that the city benefits are equally shared. Second, the metropolitanization strategy should be implemented to eliminate scale- and location-related discrimination, promote the efficient agglomeration of population and productive factors at different levels of metropolitan areas and develop global cities and world-class urban agglomerations. Third, the strategy of building high-quality livable cities should be implemented, by following the new trend of building green, healthy, resilient, smart, innovative and compact cities, and improving place qualities.
Binomial tree method for option pricing: Discrete Carr and Madan formula approach
Authors: Muroi Yoshifumi , Saeki Ryota , Suda Shintaro
Published: May 2021

This paper suggests a new Fourier analysis approach to evaluate the option prices and its sensitivities (Greeks) using the binomial tree model. In the last half of this paper, we show that option prices are efficiently and effectively evaluated using a semi-closed form formula for European option prices. We can compute option prices in a broad class of jump-diffusion models because we calculate the characteristic function for an underlying asset price numerically. Furthermore, we also compute the price of European options in the exp-Levy model. This numerical experiment gives new insights into option pricing in the nonparametric Levy model. The option prices and sensitivities can be computed very accurately and efficiently, even in binomial tree models with jumps.