bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of an option-implied distribution in improving an asset allocation model
Authors: Bahaludin Hafizah , Abdullah Mimi Hafizah
Published: July 2020

The objective of this paper is to extend the information embedded in option-implied distribution to asset allocation model. This paper examines whether a parameter estimated from an option-implied distribution can improve a minimum-variance portfolio which consists of many risky assets. The option-implied distribution under a risk-neutral assumption is called risk-neutral density (RND) whereas a risk-world density (RWD) is calculated by incorporating a risk-premium. The computation of option-implied distributions is based on the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) index options and its constituents. The data covers the period from January 2009 until December 2015. Portfolio performance is evaluated based on portfolio volatility and Sharpe ratio. The performance of a portfolio based on an option-implied distribution is compared to a naive diversification portfolio. The empirical evidence shows that for a portfolio based on an option-implied distribution, the volatility of the portfolio is reduced and the Sharpe ratio is increased.
Sequestering of iron and lead from groundwater using chemically modified Cucumis melo rind
Authors: Othman Norzila , Mohd Asharuddin Syazwani
Published: July 2020

Heavy metal contamination in groundwater is among the significant environmental issues which require high priority of remediation action due to its importance in our daily life. This study intended to upcycle Cucumis melo (C. melo) rind which a waste from agricultural industries as natural adsorbent to remove iron (Fe) and lead (Pb) ions from groundwater. The efficiency of C. melo rind to remove Fe and Pb under pre-determined optimum conditions were analyzed and the result showed that metal removal was up to 96.83 % for Fe and 94.88 % for Pb ions under Fe ion-optimized working conditions. While under Pb ion-optimized working conditions, the removal percentage obtained were up to 87.19 % for Fe and 95.09 % for Pb ion. Adsorption isotherm analysis data of both metal ions were fitted well to the Langmuir model with maximum adsorption capacity of 5.35 mg/g and 0.08 mg/g for Fe and Pb ions respectively. The kinetics experimental data correlated well with the pseudo-second order kinetics model. From the characterization study of the biosorbent using scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM-EDX), X-ray fluorescent spectrophotometry (XRF) and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), ion exchange and micro precipitation were estimated to be the main mechanism governing the biosorption process by C. melo rind. The results demonstrated that C. melo rind has the potential to be developed as the adsorbent material for the removal of Fe and Pb ions from groundwater.
Analysis on the effect of different fracture geometries on the productivity of tight gas reservoirs
Authors: Muther Temoor , Nizamani Adnan Aftab , Ismail Abdul Razak
Published: July 2020

Tight gas reservoirs are unconventional reservoir assets which have been the focus of major research in the petroleum industry owing to the global decline in conventional reservoirs. They are widely unlocked by creating hydraulic fractures in the formation to increase the flow capacity and productivity. The objective of this paper is to analyze different fracture geometries and their effect on tight gas production. The reservoir simulation model of the tight gas reservoir has been built with single porosity approach. A single vertical well with a single stage fracture has been used in the model to predict the behavior of fracture geometry. The major parameters of fracture geometry studied are fracture half-length, fracture width, and fracture height. Four sensitivities are run over different fracture geometry that is constant height and constant width, constant height and changing width, changing height and constant width, and changing height and changing width, while increasing the fracture half-length from 100 ft to 500 ft in each case. Sensitivity analysis exhibited that keeping the hydraulic fracture at constant height and constant width while increasing the fracture half-length resulted in enhanced tight gas productivity i.e. 11.63%, 14.14%, 16.06%, 17.48%, and 18.89% at hydraulic fracture half-lengths of 100 ft, 200 ft, 300 ft, 400 ft, and 500 ft, respectively, compared to other types of fracture geometry.
The assessment of nuclear hydrogen cogeneration system (NHCS) for CO2 conversion to urea fertilizer
Authors: Salimy Djati Hoesen , Sriyono Sriyono , Saragi Elfrida , Hafid Abdul
Published: July 2020

This paper reviews the application of a nuclear hydrogen cogeneration system (NHCS) for conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) to urea fertilizer. The NHCS is powered by high temperature gas cooled reactor (HTGR)with 2x600 MWt which is sufficient to produce hydrogen and heat energy to convert CO2 from coal-fired power plants with a power of 90 MWe to urea fertilizer of 1725 tons per day. As a source CO2, a coal-fired power plant is built near NHCS. Compared to conventional fertilizer plant, the NHCS application can save natural gas by 21.25x106 MMBTU/year, with a potential reduction in CO2 emission rate of 1.66x106 tons/year. Besides, there is still nuclear heat remaining at about 425.65 MWt which is equivalent to 140.46 MWe of electricity, and 90 MWe of electricity from coal-fired power plants that can be connected to electric grid. The paper also discusses the significance of the combination of NHCS and the technology of CO2 conversion which is expected to play an important role in the industry in the future  as an environmentally friendly approach.
Process modification involving strong-acid step in urea-formaldehyde resin preparation
Authors: Dermawan Dicky , Kusnadi Lucky William , Lesmana Jemmy
Published: July 2020

Urea-formaldehyde (UF) resin adhesive for wood-based panel industries are commonly manufactured using conventional alkaline-acid process. This paper reports a process modification of a conventional UF resin preparation by incorporating a strong-acid step, involving simultaneous methylolation and condensation reactions at very low pH at the beginning of the processing step. The experiment showed that this additional step should be carried out at short duration and at high enough temperature in order to avoid gelation or separation problems. In order to control temperature rise caused by the exothermic nature of the reactions, the modified process requires a higher initial formaldehyde-to-urea (F/U) molar ratio compared to the original. For the same reason, the first urea should be fed incrementally to ensure high F/U ratio at any time during the strong acid step. Using regular formalin concentration as raw material at the same F/U molar ratio, the modified resin showed lower free formaldehyde content thus have lower reactivity in comparison to those of the original. However, when the same procedure was applied using higher formaldehyde concentration at higher solid content, the produced resin showed comparable free formaldehyde content and shorter gelation time. Application test for making plywood showed that the modified process gave a very significant improvement in both the internal bonding strength and formaldehyde emission.
Bioconversion study of dodecanedioic acid from fatty acid and its ester derivatives using Candida tropicalis
Authors: Wonoputri Vita , Nugroho The Arif Setio , Maharaja Jati Putra , Sitompul Johnner
Published: July 2020

In this study, the effect of fermentation substrate and its concentration on cell growth and dodecanedioic acid (3DA) production by wild type Candida tropicalis isolated from Ambarella fruit shells in Indonesia was studied. The types of substrate (lauric acid and methyl laurate) and their concentrations (1, 3, 5 g/L) were varied. The addition of 1.67%-v/v of surfactant Tween-80 increased the solubility of lauric acid and methyl laurate by 13% and 91%, respectively, as measured by gas chromatography. The added substrates were then utilized by C. tropicalis for its growth, whereby the maximum biomass concentration measured by spectrophotometry was attained in methyl laurate system on the last day of experiment (day 5 of bioconversion phase). The cell growth was followed by 3DA production in which the maximum yield was obtained on the fourth day after substrate addition. The maximum 3DA yield of 0.247 g-3DA/g-dissolved substrate was obtained with lauric acid while the maximum 3DA yield for methyl laurate was 0.144 g-3DA/g-dissolved substrate. This research showed potential for 3DA synthesis by using naturally available renewable resources to the fullest instead of using non-renewable petrochemical resources.
The Aesthetic of Islamic Calligraphy and Ornamentation in Prophet Mosque Interior of the Calligrapher Abdullah Zuhdi (Al-Masjid An-Nabawi)
Authors: Mohammed Alashari Duaa , Hamzah Abd.Rahman , Marni Nurazmallail
Published: July 2020

Islamic Calligraphy and ornamentation are using to decorate mosques as well as other sacred places all over the Islamic world. This paper provides some sources of information for understanding and studying Islamic calligraphy and ornamentation in the Prophet Mosque interior (Al-Masjid An-Nabawi). Indeed, this paper aimed to highlight the formation aesthetics of calligraphy and Islamic decorations in which the aesthetic values. There are many aesthetic values of the Islamic calligraphy and ornamentation that portrayed in the Prophet Mosque interior. The Prophet Mosque has been selected in the present research due to the uniqueness in its calligraphy and ornamentation. Abdullah Zuhdi a calligrapher who was known as the calligrapher of the two holy sanctuaries (katib al-haramayn). The calligraphy and ornamentation in the Prophet Mosques are testifying to the skill of the master calligrapher. The principles of aesthetics in calligraphy and ornamentation based precisely on the principles of the beauty of Islam. After Islam, calligraphy was one of the most important kinds of art in Islamic world as well as one of the essential features of Islamic civilization. This study aims to show the necessity of studying Islamic calligraphy used in the Prophet Mosque interior as well as to display some Quranic verses that been written above the tomb of the Prophet Muhammad. The Prophet Mosque located in Medina city in Saudi Arabia as a model simply because it was one of the first mosques built by Prophet Muhammad and it has the fantastic and historical calligraphy and ornamentation that have a long history. The study has revealed that the calligraphy and ornamentation in the Prophet Muhmmad Mosque considered as an innovative art through its dependence unique Thuluth script and intricate pattern of Islamic motifs, the Muslim artist creativity expressed about the sacred calligraphy and highlighted the global nature of the decoration.
Persepsi Pelajar Terhadap Pembentukan Akhlak Melalui Penerapan Nilai Murni Dalam Aktiviti Dakwah Kesenian Di SMKA Negeri Kedah (Student’s Perception Towards Formation of Morals (Akhlaq) by Inculcating Noble Values in the Art Da’wah Activity in SMKA of Kedah)
Authors: Abdul Hatim Ahmad Sahlan , Sahad Mohd Nizam , Mohamad Rasit Rosmawati
Published: July 2020

The education system of the country places great emphasis on morals to create balanced people who master the knowledge and appreciate the values. However, the involvement of students in the symptoms of moral collapse caused by a lack of knowledge and appreciation of religion is a serious issue. As such, the medium of art is seen as being able to attract students to engage in preaching activities in strengthening religious appreciation. In addition to identifying the level of implementation of the art propaganda activities, this study also identified the values applied in the implementation of art propaganda activities in schools as well as the students' appreciation of those values. The results of the survey by distributing the questionnaire to 300 students from the National Religious Secondary School (SMKA) throughout the state of Kedah showed that the level of implementation of the preaching activity through the arts in the schools was high (mean = 3.30). The results of the study also found that the majority of respondents agreed that all 11 values listed were applied in the art education activities at the school. Overall, students' appreciation of values was high (mean = 3.24). The findings show that 10 dimension values are high level (min = 3.00) and one dimension values are moderate level (min = 2.95). Therefore, the application of values should be emphasized towards producing excellent and balanced students in academic and personal aspects.
Prinsip Kemanusiaan Dalam Undang-Undang Antarabangsa Islam dan Relevansinya Dengan Undang-Undang Antarabangsa Masa Kini (Principles of Humanity in Islamic International Law and its Relevancy with Current International Law)
Authors: Md Ramzan Muhammad Fahmi , Abdul Rahman Mohamad Zaidi , Che Pa Bharuddin , Mohd Daud Nurfarhana
Published: July 2020

This article aims to explore the principles of humanity in Islamic International Law, which include humanitarian principles in peace situation and in time of war and assess their suitability with current international law. To achieve this purpose, this article uses historical assessment methods and textual interpretations to study a string of historical events as well as analyze sources of text from the Quran, hadiths and other legal documents. The principles of humanity outlined in this paper are an important aspect of organizing relationships between humans either in peace or during the war. In fact, the Islamic Law of the Quran, the hadiths and actions of the Prophet ﷺ throughout history has always elevated human dignity and human values. The results show that Islamic International Law through its humanitarian principles contributes significantly to the regulation of human life in line with the development of international law. In light of the sentiment expressed by some of the international community that Islam is a terrorist religion, the humanitarian principles outlined in this article are expected to repel the allegations and thus formulate a set of ideas that will support and improve the implementation of existing international law
Making Teaching Relevant: Enhancing Students’ Self-Efficacy Through Teachers’ Enthusiasm for More Active Classroom Engagement
Authors: Zaky Hany
Published: July 2020

A strong sense of self-efficacy supports human accomplishment. Learners with high assurance in their capacities could approach difficult tasks as challenges to be handled rather than threats to be avoided. Such an outlook fosters those learners’ activities’ engrossment and their intrinsic interests of the learned contents. Therefore, learners set themselves goals and keep a strong commitment to these designated goals. To face failure, learners heighten and sustain their efforts by attributing this failure to insufficient effort and deficient knowledge and skills which ought to be acquired. To this end, those learners utilize their prior knowledge assurance to overcome the confronted threats.Concurrently, teachers ought to provide the relevant instruction that empowers their students. Consequently, learners could raise their expectations of the relevance of the perceived cognition and make sense of their world. Make learning relevance deemed a catalyst towards learners’ self- efficacy, motivation, and engagement with the learning processes. This article examines the irrevocable relationship between learners’ self- efficacy and their learning relevance towards mastery learning and active classroom engagement. The article raises some teaching challenges and suggests some research-based strategies to help teachers appreciate the broad panorama of learning and teaching in classrooms characterized by teaching self-efficacy and enthusiasm.
Modified operational matrix method for second-order nonlinear ordinary differential equations with quadratic and cubic terms
Authors: Gürbüz Burcu , Sezer Mehmet
Published: July 2020

In this study, by means of the matrix relations between the Laguerre polynomials, and their derivatives, a novel matrix method based on collocation points is modified and developed for solving a class of second-order nonlinear ordinary differential equations having quadratic and cubic terms, via mixed conditions. The method reduces the solution of the nonlinear equation to the solution of a matrix equation corresponding to system of nonlinear algebraic equations with the unknown Laguerre coefficients. Also, some illustrative examples along with an error analysis based on residual function are included to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the proposed method.
Amenaza de estereotipo, género y desempeño académico en matemáticas
Authors: Baldeón-Padilla David Sebastian , Valencia-Serrano Marcela , Alvarado Juan Ignacio
Published: July 2020

Este artículo busca establecer las diferencias existentes entre el género, el desempeño académico en matemáticas y los diferentes grupos de susceptibilidad a la amenaza de estereotipo (no identificados, no involucrados, no susceptibles y de alta susceptibilidad) en 130 estudiantes de los últimos años de bachillerato, a quienes se les aplicó la escala de identidades y actitudes sociales (SIAS). Se encontró que tanto hombres como mujeres presentaron una baja susceptibilidad a la amenaza de estereotipo y desempeños aprobatorios en el curso de matemáticas. Asimismo, no hubo diferencias en el desempeño de los cuatro grupos de susceptibilidad a la amenaza de estereotipo.
Desarrollo del pensamiento histórico. Análisis de exámenes de los estudiantes
Authors: Palacios-Mena Nancy , Chaves-Contreras Luz Yehimy , Martín-Moreno William Alfonso
Published: July 2020

El objetivo principal de este artículo es analizar el contenido y el nivel cognitivo en exámenes de historia de estudiantes de trece colegios públicos de Bogotá.Se utilizó un diseño metodológico mixto, que combinó la sistematización de datos cualitativos y cuantitativos del contenido de los exámenes. Los resultados indican que la enseñanza y la evaluación tienen como eje un tiempo lineal, que gira en torno a las épocas.En gran parte de los exámenes, se solicita a los estudiantes principalmente memorizar y recordar datos, por tanto se trata de una evaluación elemental que privilegia los contenidos conceptuales e involucra poco los procedimentales.
Estrategias de aprendizaje de estudiantes colombianos de grado y posgrado
Authors: Jerónimo-Arango Lida Cruz , Yaniz-Álvarez-de-Eulate Concepción , Carcamo-vergara Carolina
Published: July 2020

Este artículo de investigación expone la importancia de la calidad del aprendizaje docente y analiza las estrategias de aprendizaje en estudiantes de grado y posgrado en educación.Se utilizó un muestreo no probabilístico de 534 estudiantes,a quienes se les aplicaron las escalas Estrategias de Apoyo y Control y Estrategias Relacionadas con el Procesamiento de la Información del cuestionario CEVEAPEU.Los resultados muestran diferencias significativas en el uso de estrategias entre estudiantes que inician estudios de grado y quienes finalizan posgrado.En la formación de grado,no hay diferencias significativas en el uso de estrategias de aprendizaje.
Finalidades de la enseñanza de la historia en futuros profesores
Authors: González-Valencia Gustavo Alonso , Santisteban-Fernández Antoni , Pagès-Blanch Joan
Published: July 2020

Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación que indagó acerca de las representaciones sociales que sobre las finalidades de la enseñanza de la historia tiene un grupo de futuros profesores de historia. Los participantes cursaban el último año de estudios, período en el que realizan las prácticas de fin de carrera. La investigación fue mixta, tanto en la recolección como en el análisis de la información.Los resultados muestran que las representaciones son heterogéneas, están influenciadas fundamentalmente por la formación disciplinar y en menor medida por las prácticas.
Un método para analizar la crisis en los sistemas educativos
Authors: Velasco Antonio José
Published: July 2020

Por lo general, los estudios acerca de los sistemas educativos están basados en cifras sobre rendimiento, inversión, etc.; esto ha provocado que el concepto de crisis educativa haya permanecido poco claro conceptual y metodológicamente.En este artículo, se propone un método para su análisis, aplicable a distintos sistemas y niveles.Se expone una pauta de examen de los tipos de evaluación de la crisis educativa: evaluaciones directas, indirectas y mixtas; a continuación, se desarrolla un método para analizar uno de los tipos, basado en la investigación de las representaciones sociales. Finalmente, se presenta el modelo mediante una pauta metodológica y un instrumento.
Superdotación e identidad: líneas y métodos. Lectura internacional desde Colombia
Authors: Montoya-Rodas Simón , Ospina-Serna Héctor Fabio
Published: July 2020

Este artículo presenta un estado del arte de las publicaciones académicas sobre las relaciones de los conceptos superdotación/talentos excepcionales y subjetividad/identidad en la producción colombiana y se comparan con bases de datos internacionales.Se llevó a cabo una reflexión pedagógica que analizara disciplinas, métodos y fuentes de información,en la que se encontraron como categorías emergentes la diversidad,los estudios de raza,el género,el bilingüismo,las reflexiones sobre diagnosis y la lucha por el reconocimiento.En estos estudios predominó una mirada empírico-analítica hecha desde la psicología.Finalmente, se plantean algunos caminos posibles para las investigaciones en Colombia y en otros países,a partir de los últimos avances.
On the Edge Singularity of the Actuator Disk Model
Authors: Chattot Jean-Jacques
Published: July 2020

In this technical brief, the classic actuator disk theory is revisited with a view to shed some light on the singularity of the flow at the edge of the disk where the vortex tube starts and where vorticity is generated. The study is carried out using small perturbation assumption in two-dimensions and simplified boundary conditions in all cases. The problem of the two-dimensional thin cambered plate with constant vorticity distribution is solved and the leading edge singularity is analyzed as it is believed to be relevant to the axisymmetric flow at the actuator disk edge. Next, the velocity components induced by the cylindrical vortex tube of constant vorticity are obtained via the Biot–Savart law and the near edge behavior is investigated. It is shown that the velocity components behavior is consistent with that of the thin cambered plate with constant loading, thus reinforcing the notion that the axisymmetric slip-line behaves as r − R ∝ −xlnx near the disk edge.
Targeted disruption of Kv2.1-VAPA association provides neuroprotection against ischemic stroke in mice by declustering Kv2.1 channels
Authors: Schulien Anthony J. , Yeh Chung-Yang , Orange Bailey N. , Pav Olivia J. , Hopkins Madelynn P. , Moutal Aubin , Khanna Rajesh , Sun Dandan , Justice Jason A. , Aizenman Elias
Published: July 2020

A neuroprotective peptide protects mice against ischemic stroke injury by disrupting Kv2.1 potassium channel clusters in neurons.
Esophageal extracellular matrix hydrogel mitigates metaplastic change in a dog model of Barrett’s esophagus
Authors: Naranjo Juan Diego , Saldin Lindsey T. , Sobieski Eric , Quijano Lina M. , Hill Ryan C. , Chan Patrick G. , Torres Crisanto , Dziki Jenna L. , Cramer Madeline C. , Lee Yoojin C. , Das Rohit , Bajwa Anant K. , Nossair Rania , Klimak Molly , Marchal Lucile , Patel Shil , Velankar Sachin S. , Hansen Kirk C. , McGrath Kevin , Badylak Stephen F.
Published: July 2020

Oral delivery of esophageal extracellular matrix hydrogel mitigates mucosal inflammation and metaplasia in a dog model of reflux.
A novel system to map protein interactions reveals evolutionarily conserved immune evasion pathways on transmissible cancers
Authors: Flies Andrew S. , Darby Jocelyn M. , Lennard Patrick R. , Murphy Peter R. , Ong Chrissie E. B. , Pinfold Terry L. , De Luca Alana , Lyons A. Bruce , Woods Gregory M. , Patchett Amanda L.
Published: July 2020

A simple cut-and-paste reagent development method applicable to any species reveals checkpoint molecules on transmissible cancers.
Intestinal goblet cells protect against GVHD after allogeneic stem cell transplantation via Lypd8
Authors: Ara Takahide , Hashimoto Daigo , Hayase Eiko , Noizat Clara , Kikuchi Ryo , Hasegawa Yuta , Matsuda Kana , Ono Shoko , Matsuno Yoshihiro , Ebata Ko , Ogasawara Reiki , Takahashi Shuichiro , Ohigashi Hiroyuki , Yokoyama Emi , Matsuo Keitaro , Sugita Junichi , Onozawa Masahiro , Okumura Ryu , Takeda Kiyoshi , Teshima Takanori
Published: July 2020

Goblet cells play a protective role against GVHD after allogeneic stem cell transplantation in a Lypd8-dependent manner.
An ultrafast insulin formulation enabled by high-throughput screening of engineered polymeric excipients
Authors: Mann Joseph L. , Maikawa Caitlin L. , Smith Anton A. A. , Grosskopf Abigail K. , Baker Sam W. , Roth Gillie A. , Meis Catherine M. , Gale Emily C. , Liong Celine S. , Correa Santiago , Chan Doreen , Stapleton Lyndsay M. , Yu Anthony C. , Muir Ben , Howard Shaun , Postma Almar , Appel Eric A.
Published: July 2020

Monomeric insulin stabilized with polymeric excipient exhibits increased stability and faster pharmacokinetics than current rapid-acting insulins.
Less is more for adoptive immunotherapy?
Authors: Shi Lewis Z.
Published: July 2020

p38 inhibition augments adoptive T cell therapy by making T cells “fitter.”
Nanosponges intercept coronavirus infection
Authors: Xinyi Su
Published: July 2020

Nanoparticles cloaked in human lung and immune cell membranes act as decoys to neutralize SARS-CoV-2 in cell culture, preventing host cell infection.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Methylosinus
sp. Strain C49, a Methane-Oxidizing Bacterium Harboring
phaABC
Genes for Polyhydroxyalkanoate Synthesis
Authors: Yasuda Shohei , Suenaga Toshikazu , Terada Akihiko
Published: July 2020

We report a complete genome sequence of
Methylosinus
sp. strain C49, a methane-oxidizing bacterium (MOB) in the class
Alphaproteobacteria
, isolated from MOB-enriched biomass. The genome encodes the functional genes for methane oxidation (
pmoA
) and polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) biosynthesis (
phaABC
). Deciphering the genome will help research toward PHA production by MOB.
Effect of opaque wraps for pulse oximeter sensors: randomised cross-over trial
Authors: Kannan Loganathan Prakash , O'Shea Joyce E , Harikumar Chidambara , Brigham John C , Rabi Yacov , Gupta Samir
Published: July 2020

Background

Evidence is lacking as to whether ambient light or phototherapy light could interfere with pulse oximeter performance.

Methods

In this randomised cross-over trial, we recruited neonates of gestation >24 weeks. Consented infants were randomly assigned to either pulse oximeter sensor with opaque wrap or without opaque wrap. Nellcor and Masimo sensors were applied simultaneously to different feet for 10 min of recording. Infants were crossed over to the other intervention for a further 10 min, totalling 20 min recording per infant. Primary outcome was faster acquisition of data with shielding of pulse oximeter sensor as compared with not shielding.

Results

A total of 96 babies were recruited. There was no difference in primary outcome of time taken to display valid data between the two groups (opaque wrap: 12.73±3.1 s vs no opaque wrap: 13.16±3.3 s, p=0.27). There was no difference in any of the secondary outcomes (percentage of valid data points, percentage of time saturation below target, and so on) between the two groups in both pulse oximeters. Masimo sensor readings displayed a higher mean oxygen saturation (mean difference of 2.85, p=0.001) and lower percentage of time saturation below 94% (mean difference of −27.8, p=0.001) than Nellcor in both groups. There was no difference in any of the outcomes in babies receiving phototherapy (n=21).

Conclusion

In this study, shielding the pulse oximeter sensor from ambient light or phototherapy light did not yield faster data acquisition or better data quality.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN10302534
Risk of primary gastrointestinal cancers following incident non-metastatic breast cancer: a Danish population-based cohort study
Authors: Adelborg Kasper , Farkas Dóra Körmendiné , Sundbøll Jens , Schapira Lidia , Tamang Suzanne , Cullen Mark R , Cronin-Fenton Deirdre , Sørensen Henrik Toft
Published: July 2020

Objective

We examined the risk of primary gastrointestinal cancers in women with breast cancer and compared this risk with that of the general population.

Design

Using population-based Danish registries, we conducted a cohort study of women with incident non-metastatic breast cancer (1990–2017). We computed cumulative cancer incidences and standardised incidence ratios (SIRs).

Results

Among 84 972 patients with breast cancer, we observed 2340 gastrointestinal cancers. After 20 years of follow-up, the cumulative incidence of gastrointestinal cancers was 4%, driven mainly by colon cancers. Only risk of stomach cancer was continually increased beyond 1 year following breast cancer. The SIR for colon cancer was neutral during 2–5 years of follow-up and approximately 1.2-fold increased thereafter. For cancer of the oesophagus, the SIR was increased only during 6–10 years. There was a weak association with pancreas cancer beyond 10 years. Between 1990–2006 and 2007–2017, the 1–10 years SIR estimate decreased and reached unity for upper gastrointestinal cancers (oesophagus, stomach, and small intestine). For lower gastrointestinal cancers (colon, rectum, and anal canal), the SIR estimate was increased only after 2007. No temporal effects were observed for the remaining gastrointestinal cancers. Treatment effects were negligible.

Conclusion

Breast cancer survivors were at increased risk of oesophagus and stomach cancer, but only before 2007. The risk of colon cancer was increased, but only after 2007.
TeCHO+ program in Gujarat: a protocol for health technology assessment
Authors: Saha Somen , Kotwani Priya , Pandya Apurvakumar , Saxena Deepak , Puwar Tapasvi , Desai Shrey , Vaghela Prakash , Patel Dashrath , Patel Chintan , Raval Devang , Ravi Jayanti
Published: July 2020

The Health and Family Welfare Department, Government of Gujarat, is implementing a program named Technology for Community Health Operation or TeCHO+ addressing state’s priority health issues. This program envisages replacing the existing mother and child tracking system or e-Mamta application in the state. This program is based on ImTeCHO—Innovative Mobile Technology for Community Health Operations—which was piloted in Jhagadia, Bharuch district of Gujarat in 2013. The program showed improvements not only in terms of coverage of maternal and newborn care packages averting malnutrition but also was cost-effective. This paper details the protocol for health technology assessment to assess the impact of TeCHO+ program on data quality, improvement in service delivery coverage, reduction in morbidity and mortality as well as assess the cost-effectiveness. The study will be conducted in five districts of the state. A mixed-method approach will be adopted. Data will be validated in a phased manner over a period of 3 years along with an assessment of key outcome indicators. Additionally, key informant interviews will be conducted and cost data will be gathered to perform cost-effectiveness analysis. The study will inform policymakers about the impact of TeCHO+ program on quality, access and cost-effectiveness of healthcare services.
What are the perceptions of runners and healthcare professionals on footwear and running injury risk?
Authors: Dhillon Gurmeet K , Hunt Michael A , Reid Andrea L , Esculier Jean-Francois
Published: July 2020

Objectives

There is a gap in research exploring perceptions of runners and healthcare professionals (HCPs) about running footwear and injury risk. The objectives of this study were: (1) to document factors considered by runners when selecting footwear; (2) to compare perceptions on footwear and injury risk in runners and HCPs; and (3) to evaluate the perceived usefulness of an online educational module.

Methods

Using an online survey, we collected information on demographics and perceptions about footwear and injury risk. Runners reported their footwear selection strategy, and HCPs their typical recommendations. An evidence-based educational module was presented, and participants rated its usefulness.

Results

The survey was completed by 2442 participants, of which 1035 completed the optional postmodule questions. Runners reported relying mostly on comfort and advice from retailers when selecting shoes. Perceptions regarding the effects of specific footwear types (minimalist, maximalist), characteristics (softness, drop) and selection strategy (foot type, transition) on biomechanics and injury risk were different between HCPs and runners. Overall, runners perceived footwear as more important to prevent injury than did HCPs (7.6/10, 99% CI 7.4 to 7.7 vs 6.2/10, 99% CI 6.0 to 6.5; p<0.001). Both runners (8.1/10, 99% CI 7.9 to 8.3) and HCPs (8.7/10, 99% CI 8.6 to 8.9) found the educational module useful. A majority of respondents indicated the module changed their perceptions.

Conclusion

Footwear is perceived as important in reducing running injury risk. This online module was deemed useful in educating about footwear evidence. Future studies should evaluate if changes in perceptions can translate to behaviour change and, ultimately, reduced injury risk.
Colchicine for acute and chronic coronary syndromes
Authors: Imazio Massimo , Andreis Alessandro , Brucato Antonio , Adler Yehuda , De Ferrari Gaetano Maria
Published: July 2020

Colchicine is an ancient drug, traditionally used for the treatment and prevention of gouty attacks; it has become standard of treatment for pericarditis with a potential role in the treatment of coronary artery disease. Atherosclerotic plaque formation, progression, destabilisation and rupture are influenced by active proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 that are generated in the active forms by inflammasomes, which are cytosolic multiprotein oligomers of the innate immune system responsible for the activation of inflammatory responses. Colchicine has a unique anti-inflammatory mechanism: it is not only able to concentrate in leucocytes, especially neutrophils, and block tubulin polymerisation, affecting the microtubules assembly, but also inhibits (NOD)-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. On this basis, colchicine interferes with several functions of leucocytes and the assembly and activation of the inflammasome as well, reducing the production of interleukin 1β and interleukin 18. Long-term use of colchicine has been associated with a reduced rate of cardiovascular events both in chronic and acute coronary syndromes, with an overall good safety profile. This review will focus on the influence of colchicine on the pathophysiology of coronary artery disease, reviewing essential pharmacology and discussing the most important and recent clinical studies. On the basis of current literature, colchicine is emerging as a possible new valuable, safe and cheap agent for the treatment of acute and chronic coronary syndromes.
Relationship of pain and fatigue with health-related quality of life and work in patients with psoriatic arthritis on TNFi: results of a multi-national real-world study
Authors: Conaghan P G , Alten Rieke , Deodhar Atul , Sullivan Emma , Blackburn Stuart , Tian Haijun , Gandhi Kunal , Jugl Steffen M , Strand Vibeke
Published: July 2020

Background/Objective

The incidence of pain and/or fatigue in people with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is associated with reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and the ability to work, despite modern advanced therapeutic approaches. This real-world, international study examined these relationships in patients with PsA treated with tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi).

Methods

Data from 13 countries were analysed. Patients with PsA and their physicians completed questionnaires capturing demographics, current therapy, current disease status, HRQoL and work status via Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form version 2 (SF-36v2), 3-level 5-dimension EuroQoL questionnaire, Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index, and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI) questionnaire.

Results

640 patients with PsA were included who had been receiving TNFi for ≥3 months and had completed SF-36v2 bodily pain and vitality domains. Of these, 33.1%, 29.2% and 37.7% of patients reported no, moderate and severe pain, respectively, and 31.9%, 22.5% and 45.6% of patients reported low, moderate and severe fatigue, respectively. Scores across HRQoL variables and WPAI were significantly different across pain and fatigue cohorts (all p<0.0001), with HRQoL and WPAI measures considerably worse in patients with moderate to severe pain or fatigue than those with low pain or fatigue.

Conclusions

Despite treatment with biologic agents such as TNFi, data from this global study demonstrated that substantial pain and/or fatigue persist in patients with PsA and that these are significantly associated with reduced HRQoL, physical function and work productivity. These findings suggest that there is an unmet need for additional PsA therapies.
Piecewise-Linear Map for Studying Border Collision Phenomena in DC/AC Converters
Authors: Avrutin Viktor , Zhusubaliyev Zhanybai T.
Published: July 2020

Recently, while studying the dynamics of power electronic DC/AC converters we have demonstrated that the behavior of these systems can be modeled by piecewise-smooth maps which belong to a specific class of models not investigated before. The characteristic feature of these maps is the presence of a very high number of switching manifolds (border points in 1D). Obviously, the multitude of control strategies applied in the modern power electronics leads to different maps belonging to this class of models. However, in this paper we show that several models can be studied using the same piecewise-linear approximation, so that the bifurcation phenomena which can be observed in this approximation are generic for many models. Based on the results obtained before for piecewise-smooth models with different kinds of nonlinearities resulting from the corresponding control strategies, in the present paper we discuss the generic bifurcation patterns in the underlying piecewise-linear map.
Bifurcation Analysis in Planar Quadratic Differential Systems with Boundary
Authors: Castro Jocelyn A. , Verduzco Fernando
Published: July 2020

Given a planar quadratic differential system delimited by a straight line, we are interested in studying the bifurcation phenomena that can arise when the position on the boundary of two tangency points are considered as parameters of bifurcation. First, under generic conditions, we find a two-parametric family of quadratic differential systems with at least one tangency point. After that, we find a normal form for this parameterized family. Next, we study two subfamilies, one of them characterized by the existence of two fold points of different nature, and the other one, characterized by the existence of one fold point and one boundary equilibrium point. For the first family, we find sufficient conditions for the existence of stationary bifurcations: saddle-node, transcritical and pitchfork, while for the second family, the existence of the called transcritical Bogdanov–Takens bifurcation is proved. Finally, the results are illustrated with two examples.
Amplitude Equations and Bifurcation Diagrams for Multifrequency Synchronization of Canonical-Dissipative Oscillators
Authors: Frank T. D. , Mongkolsakulvong S.
Published: July 2020

Coupled systems of two canonical-dissipative limit cycle oscillators are considered in the general case and for the case of monofrequency and multifrequency synchronization. Specifically, the oscillator frequency ratios of 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3 are examined and modeled by a hybrid Rayleigh–van der Pol oscillator and an oscillator model suggested by Holt as well as an oscillator model suggested by Fokas and Lagerstrom. It is shown that all three systems exhibit a unique bifurcation diagram that describes limit cycle attractors of monofrequency and multifrequency synchronization. In particular, the relative phase describing the lag between the two oscillators both in the monofrequency and multifrequency case can be tuned by an appropriately defined bifurcation parameter [Formula: see text]. For [Formula: see text] two limit cycle attractors with different relative phases exist that merge at [Formula: see text] into pitchfork bifurcations and give rise to single limit cycle attractors that continue to exist for [Formula: see text]. Similarities and differences to bifurcation diagrams published in previous work of a similar coupled oscillator system, one based on Smorodinsky–Winternitz potentials and exhibiting 1:1 synchronization, are noted.
Turing Pattern Induced by Cross-Diffusion in a Predator–Prey Model with Pack Predation-Herd Behavior
Authors: Yang Jingen , Zhang Tonghua , Yuan Sanling
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we propose a diffusive predator–prey model with herd behavior in prey and pack predation behavior in predator under the homogeneous Neumann boundary condition. Due to the pack predation-herd behavior, the predator–prey interaction occurs only at the outer edge of each group. First, we analyze the existence and local stability of the equilibria of temporal model using vector field analysis and characteristic equations. Second, we deduce the conditions under which Turing instability occurs with the help of linear stability analysis. Then, using standard multiple-scale analysis, we derive the amplitude equations for the excited modes. By numerical simulations, we find that the model exhibits complex pattern replication by varying the value of parameters [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], and study the relationships between the average density of both prey and predator and these two parameters.
Resonant Chaotic Dynamics of a Symmetric Cross-Ply Composite Laminated Plate Under Transverse and In-Plane Excitations
Authors: Ma W. S. , Zhang W.
Published: July 2020

The resonant chaotic dynamics of a symmetric cross-ply composite laminated plate are studied using the exponential dichotomies and an averaging procedure for the first time. The partial differential governing equations of motion for the symmetric cross-ply composite laminated plate are derived by using Reddy’s third-order shear deformation plate theory and von Karman type equation. The partial differential governing equations of motion are discretized into two-degree-of-freedom nonlinear systems including the quadratic and cubic nonlinear terms by using Galerkin method. There exists a fixed point of saddle-focus in the linear part for two-degree-of-freedom nonlinear system. The Melnikov method containing the terms of the nonhyperbolic mode is developed to investigate the resonant chaotic motions of the symmetric cross-ply composite laminated plate. The obtained results indicate that the nonhyperbolic mode of the symmetric cross-ply composite laminated plate does not affect the critical conditions in the occurrence of chaotic motions in the resonant case. When the resonant chaotic motion occurs, we can draw a conclusion that the resonant chaotic motions of the hyperbolic subsystem are shadowed for the full nonlinear system of the symmetric cross-ply composite laminated plate.
Input–Output Characterization of the Dynamical Properties of Circuits with a Memelement
Authors: Innocenti Giacomo , Di Marco Mauro , Tesi Alberto , Forti Mauro
Published: July 2020

The paper proposes a novel input–output approach to characterize the dynamical properties of a class of circuits composed by a linear time-invariant two-terminal element coupled with one of the ideal memelements (memory elements) introduced by Prof. L. O. Chua, i.e. memristors, memcapacitors, and meminductors. The developed approach permits to readily determine the conditions under which the dynamics of any circuit of the class admits a first integral. It is also shown that the circuit dynamics can be obtained by collecting the dynamical behaviors displayed by a canonical reduced-order input–output system subject to a constant input of any amplitude. Notably, the reduced-order system exactly describes the dynamics of a circuit forced by a constant generator and with a nonlinear memoryless element in place of the memelement. The relation between the proposed input–output approach and the available state space ones (e.g. Flux-Charge Analysis Method (FCAM)) is also addressed. The main result is that explicit expressions of the invariant manifolds can be directly obtained in the voltage–current state space. Finally, it is shown how the approach also applies to circuits which contain forcing generators. It is believed that the proposed input–output approach can be a useful alternative to state space methods for studying multistability and control issues.
Thermal Stability and Flame Resistance of the Coextruded Wood-Plastic Composites Containing Talc-Filled Plastic Shells
Authors: Huang Runzhou , Zhang Xian , Chen Zhilin , Wan Minli , Wu Qinglin
Published: July 2020

Talc is a popular filler for the fabrication of plastic composites. The presence of talc helps improve mechanical, thermal, and flame resistance properties of the composite. In this work, we report the influence of a talc-filled plastic shell layer on thermal stability and fire flammability of the core-shell structured wood high-density polyethylene (HDPE) composites manufactured through coextrusion. The result showed that morphological analysis of the char layer after combustion confirmed the formation of a continuous surface char layer with talc addition in the composites, helping block fire penetration and enhance overall fire resistance of the composites. The shell thickness averaged at 1.0±0.2 mm, which represents a fair thick shell over a 10 mm thick WPC core layer. The surface of regular wood-filled HDPE showed large cracks, allowing more rapid fire penetration and reducing its fire resistance. At 800°C, average residual weight for all composite was 21.5±13.8%, most of which was attributed to the inorganic nonvolatile talc components. With the increase of talc level, THR values of coextruded WPC decreased from 302.47 MJ/m2 (5 wt% of talc) to 262.96 kW/m2 (50 wt% of talc). When talc content in the shell layer was less than 25 wt%, the flame resistance properties were slightly enhanced compared with the composites containing unmodified HDPE shells. When talc content in the shell exceeded 25 wt%, the composite’s total heat release and its rate substantially decreased.