bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultural and environmental associations with body image, diet and well-being in NCAA DI female distance runners: a qualitative analysis
Authors: Carson Traci Lyn , Tournat Troy , Sonneville Kendrin , Zernicke Ronald F , Karvonen-Gutierrez Carrie
Published: November 2020

Objective

We aimed to describe current and former National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division One (DI) female distance runners’ experiences of perceived norms of body image and disordered eating in their sport, as well as the emergence and influence of coach–athlete power dynamics.

This manuscript reports a qualitative research study (consisting of interviews and thematic analysis) of women athletes’ experiences of perceived norms of body image and disordered eating in their sport. We also report athletes’ experiences of coach–athlete power dynamics.

Methods

The study sample included 29 current and former female NCAA DI female distance runners, defined as competing in 800-metre distance or greater. Interviews were conducted, audio-recorded and hand transcribed. A thematic analysis was performed and presented.

Results

Two major themes emerged: (1) sport body ideals and body image norms and myths that exist in the sport, and (2) the power dynamic between athletes and coaches. It is not clear whether sport body ideals and culture of running influences coaching culture, or whether the coaches—who maintain positions of power in the sport—perpetuate the culture. These themes likely feed into each other and reinforce the existing and dominant mentalities of the sport.

Conclusion

Sport body image ideals and the power dynamic between coach and athlete may contribute to female athlete’s risk of disordered eating and body image disturbance. We call for the NCAA and athletic departments to develop and implement prevention and intervention programmes to prevent eating and body image disorders in this high-risk population.
Health system governance in strengthening International Health Regulations (IHR) compliance in Myanmar
Authors: Pyone Thidar , Aung Toe Thiri , Endericks Tina , Myint Nyan Win , Inamdar Leena , Collins Samuel , Pwint Khin Hnin , Hein Bo Bo , Wilson Anne
Published: November 2020

The International Health Regulations 2005 (IHR) is a legally binding framework which requires 196 WHO Member States to take actions to prevent, protect against, control and provide public health response to the international spread of disease. Improving IHR compliance provides grounds for better health system strengthening, which is key to moving countries closer towards Universal Health Coverage. Multisectoral, collaborative working within and across sectors is fundamental to improving IHR (2005) compliance, and for that, governance is the best lever of the health system. This paper highlights the importance of the relationship between governance and IHR in the context of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which follow the fundamental principle of interdependence; SDGs interlink with one another. We consider governance (SDG 16) and how it influences the IHR capacity of SDG 3 (health and well-being for all at all ages). This paper considers the successes of the Myanmar Ministry of Health and Sports thus far in improving IHR compliance and highlights that an even greater focus on health system governance would lead to more sustainable outcomes. Nurturing an institutional culture with enforced rules, which are conducive for improved accountability through inclusive participation would further improve Myanmar IHR strengthening efforts. Without those principles of good governance, the developed IHR capacities cannot be sustained or owned by Myanmar people. This has now become even more urgent given the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Need for recovery amongst emergency physicians in the UK and Ireland: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Cottey Laura , Roberts Tom , Graham Blair , Horner Daniel , Stevens Kara Nicola , Enki Doyo , Lyttle Mark David , Latour Jos
Published: November 2020

Objectives

To determine the need for recovery (NFR) among emergency physicians and to identify demographic and occupational characteristics associated with higher NFR scores.

Design

Cross-sectional electronic survey.

Setting

Emergency departments (EDs) (n=112) in the UK and Ireland.

Participants

Emergency physicians, defined as any registered physician working principally within the ED, responding between June and July 2019.

Main outcome measure

NFR Scale, an 11-item self-administered questionnaire that assesses how work demands affect intershift recovery.

Results

The median NFR Score for all 4247 eligible, consented participants with a valid NFR Score was 70.0 (95% CI: 65.5 to 74.5), with an IQR of 45.5–90.0. A linear regression model indicated statistically significant associations between gender, health conditions, type of ED, clinical grade, access to annual and study leave, and time spent working out-of-hours. Groups including male physicians, consultants, general practitioners (GPs) within the ED, those working in paediatric EDs and those with no long-term health condition or disability had a lower NFR Score. After adjusting for these characteristics, the NFR Score increased by 3.7 (95% CI: 0.3 to 7.1) and 6.43 (95% CI: 2.0 to 10.8) for those with difficulty accessing annual and study leave, respectively. Increased percentage of out-of-hours work increased NFR Score almost linearly: 26%–50% out-of-hours work=5.7 (95% CI: 3.1 to 8.4); 51%–75% out-of-hours work=10.3 (95% CI: 7.6 to 13.0); 76%–100% out-of-hours work=14.5 (95% CI: 11.0 to 17.9).

Conclusion

Higher NFR scores were observed among emergency physicians than reported in any other profession or population to date. While out-of-hours working is unavoidable, the linear relationship observed suggests that any reduction may result in NFR improvement. Evidence-based strategies to improve well-being such as proportional out-of-hours working and improved access to annual and study leave should be carefully considered and implemented where feasible.
Pandemics, epidemics and inequities in routine childhood vaccination coverage: a rapid review
Authors: Spencer Nick , Nathawad Rita , Arpin Emmanuele , Johnson Samantha
Published: November 2020

Inequity in routine childhood vaccination coverage is well researched. Pandemics disrupt infrastructure and divert health resources from preventive care, including vaccination programmes, leading to increased vaccine preventable morbidity and mortality. COVID-19 control measures have resulted in coverage reductions. We conducted a rapid review of the impact of pandemics on existing inequities in routine vaccination coverage. PICO search framework: Population: children 0–18 years; Intervention/exposure: pandemic/epidemic; Comparison: inequality; Outcome: routine vaccination coverage. The review demonstrates a gap in the literature as none of the 29 papers selected for full-paper review from 1973 abstracts identified from searches met the inclusion criteria.
Randomised comparison of postpolypectomy surveillance intervals following a two-round baseline colonoscopy: the Japan Polyp Study Workgroup
Authors: Matsuda Takahisa , Fujii Takahiro , Sano Yasushi , Kudo Shin-ei , Oda Yasushi , Hotta Kinichi , Shimoda Tadakazu , Saito Yutaka , Kobayashi Nozomu , Sekiguchi Masau , Konishi Kazuo , Ikematsu Hiroaki , Iishi Hiroyasu , Takeuchi Yoji , Igarashi Masahiro , Kobayashi Kiyonori , Sada Miwa , Yamaguchi Yuichiro , Hasuda Kiwamu , Shinohara Tomoaki , Ishikawa Hideki , Murakami Yoshitaka , Taniguchi Hirokazu , Fujimori Takahiro , Ajioka Yoichi , Yoshida Shigeaki
Published: November 2020

Objective

To assess whether follow-up colonoscopy after polypectomy at 3 years only, or at 1 and 3 years would effectively detect advanced neoplasia (AN), including nonpolypoid colorectal neoplasms (NP-CRNs).

Design

A prospective multicentre randomised controlled trial was conducted in 11 Japanese institutions. The enrolled participants underwent a two-round baseline colonoscopy (interval: 1 year) to remove all neoplastic lesions. Subsequently, they were randomly assigned to undergo follow-up colonoscopy at 1 and 3 years (2-examination group) or at 3 years only (1-examination group). The incidence of AN, defined as lesions with low-grade dysplasia ≥10 mm, high-grade dysplasia or invasive cancer, at follow-up colonoscopy was evaluated.

Results

A total of 3926 patients were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 57.3 (range: 40–69) years, and 2440 (62%) were male. Of these, 2166 patients were assigned to two groups (2-examination: 1087, 1-examination: 1079). Overall, we detected 29 AN in 28 patients at follow-up colonoscopy in both groups. On per-protocol analysis (701 in 2-examination vs 763 in 1-examination group), the incidence of AN was similar between the two groups (1.7% vs 2.1%, p=0.599). The results of the non-inferiority test were significant (p=0.017 in per-protocol, p=0.001 in intention-to-treat analysis). NP-CRNs composed of dominantly of the detected AN (62%, 18/29), and most of them were classified into laterally spreading tumour non-granular type (83%, 15/18).

Conclusion

After a two-round baseline colonoscopy, follow-up colonoscopy at 3 years detected AN, including NP-CRNs, as effectively as follow-up colonoscopies performed after 1 and 3 years.
Efficacy and safety of rituximab biosimilar in refractory lupus
Authors: Pongtarakulpanit Nantakarn , Pisitkun Prapaporn , Ngamjanyaporn Pintip
Published: November 2020

Aims

To characterise patients with refractory SLE receiving rituximab biosimilar (CT-P10) and to explore short-term efficacy and safety associated with rituximab biosimilar use.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed data from the medical records of patients with refractory SLE who received CT-P10 in Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand. Baseline characteristics, disease activity (modified Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI)), response to treatment at 6 months after CT-P10 and infection over 6 months were recorded.

Results

Thirty-two patients with SLE received CT-P10 from April 2018 to June 2019. Of these, 29 (90.6%) were female and the mean±SD age was 36.8±15.2 years. The median (IQR) disease duration was 9.5 (1.3–13.0) years. All patients received glucocorticoid treatment and used 1.7±0.1 immunosuppressive agents at baseline, excluding antimalarial drugs. Baseline Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics Damage Index score was 0.5 (0.0–1.0). Overall response, which was defined as a reduction in the modified SLEDAI score of ≥4, was achieved in 25.0% of patients at 6 months. The modified SLEDAI score reduced from 4 (1.3–8.0) at baseline to 1 (0.0–5.8) at 6 months (p=0.005). Response by active organ involvement was 71.8%. Serious infection occurred in four patients (12.5%), resulting in one death. The median time of onset of infection after CT-P10 infusion was 35.5 (17.0–72.5) days.

Conclusion

Rituximab biosimilar is associated with improvement in active organ involvement in patients with refractory SLE. Infection occurred early after rituximab biosimilar infusion.
Contacts with general practitioner, sick leave and work participation after electrical injuries: a register-based, matched cohort study
Authors: Biering Karin , Vestergaard Jesper Medom , Nielsen Kent Jacob , Carstensen Ole , Kærgaard Anette
Published: November 2020

Objective

Exposure to electrical current may cause injury with both mental and physiological consequences. This may lead to increased contacts with general practitioners (GP) and the injured person may develop reduced ability to work. We aimed to examine these outcomes in terms of work-participation, long-term sick leave and contacts with GPs.

Methods

In a matched cohort design, we identified 14 112 electrical injuries in two registries and matched these with both patients with distorsion injuries or eye injuries, and with persons from the same occupation, using year of injury, sex and age for matching. We defined the outcomes based on register information regarding contacts with GPs and public transfer income. After the injury, we determined if the person had a long-term sick leave episode during the first 6, 12 months and 5 years. We calculated work participation during the year and 5 years and the number of GP contacts in the year of the injury, the year after and 5 years after the injury and dichotomised this at twice the mean number of contacts in the study population. The associations were analysed using conditional logistic regression.

Results

We found increased risk for all defined outcomes, with the highest estimates in the occupation match. The risk estimates were similar over time. Adjusting for previous work participation increased the estimates slightly, whereas adjusting for previous contacts with GPs reduced the estimates. Restricting to those with at longer hospitalisation increased the estimates.

Conclusion

Electrical injuries increase risk of long-term sick leave, low work participation and increased contacts with GPs.
Characterisation of gas exchange in COPD with dissolved-phase hyperpolarised xenon-129 MRI
Authors: Myc Lukasz , Qing Kun , He Mu , Tustison Nicholas , Lin Zixuan , Manichaikul Ani W , Patrie James , Cassani Joanne , Nunoo-Asare Roselove N , Huang Yong , Obaida Zaid , Tafti Sina , Ropp Alan M , Miller Grady Wilson , Mata Jaime , Altes Talissa , Mugler John , Shim Y Michael
Published: November 2020

To investigate whether hyperpolarised xenon-129 MRI (HXeMRI) enables regional and physiological resolution of diffusing capacity limitations in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), we evaluated 34 COPD subjects and 11 healthy volunteers. We report significant correlations between airflow abnormality quantified by HXeMRI and per cent predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s; HXeMRI gas transfer capacity to red blood cells and carbon monoxide diffusion capacity (%DLCO); and HXeMRI gas transfer capacity to interstitium and per cent emphysema quantified by multidetector chest CT. We further demonstrate the capability of HXeMRI to distinguish varying pathology underlying COPD in subjects with low %DLCO and minimal emphysema.
Bilateral proximal tibial epiphysiodesis and juvenile pubic symphysiodesis in a 22‐week‐old golden retriever
Authors: Rohwedder Thomas , Buchheim Sophie , Böttcher Peter
Published: November 2020

A 22‐week‐old male golden retriever with acute bilateral hind limb lameness was diagnosed with bilateral complete cranial cruciate ligament rupture and hip joint laxity. Laxity index was 0.72 on the left and 0.68 on the right hip joint preoperatively. The dog was treated with simultaneous bilateral proximal tibial epiphysiodesis and juvenile pubic symphysiodesis and followed up for one year after surgery. Lameness resolved completely, and the dog showed a very good long‐term outcome. Laxity index, measured four months after initial surgery, was corrected to 0.42 on the left side and 0.45 on the right side. The tibial plateau angle was corrected to 0 degree in the left and 4 degree in the right tibia, resulting in stable and pain‐free stifle joints. No complications were observed due to the surgical procedures.
Evaluating the consequences of common assumptions in run reconstructions on Pacific salmon biological status assessments
Authors: Peacock Stephanie J. , Hertz Eric , Holt Carrie A. , Connors Brendan , Freshwater Cameron , Connors Katrina
Published: November 2020

Information on biological status is essential for designing, implementing, and evaluating management strategies and recovery plans for threatened or exploited species. However, the data required to quantify status are often limited, and it is important to understand how assessments of status may be biased by assumptions in data analysis. For Pacific salmon, biological status assessments based on spawner abundances and spawner–recruitment (SR) analyses often involve “run reconstructions” that impute missing spawner data, expand observed spawner abundance to account for unmonitored streams, assign catch to individual stocks, and quantify age-at-return. Using a stochastic simulation approach, we quantified how common assumptions in run reconstructions biased assessments of biological status based on spawner abundance. We found that status assessments were robust to most common assumptions in run reconstructions, even in the face of declining monitoring coverage, but that overestimating catch tended to increase rates of status misclassification. Our results lend confidence to biological status assessments based on spawner abundances and SR analyses, even in the face of incomplete data.
Parentage-based tagging improves escapement estimates for ESA-listed adult Chinook salmon and steelhead in the Snake River basin
Authors: Hargrove John S. , Camacho Carlos A. , Schrader William C. , Powell John H. , Delomas Thomas A. , Hess Jon E. , Narum Shawn R. , Campbell Matthew R.
Published: November 2020

Parentage-based tagging (PBT) is a nonlethal, genetic tagging method that has been successfully applied in hatchery-supplemented populations to manage hatchery brood stock and monitor hatchery harvest and straying rates. We show that PBT can also improve the accuracy of escapement estimates by significantly reducing the number of hatchery-origin fish falsely classified as natural-origin. Unlike conventional abundance estimates, which use physical marks and tags to distinguish hatchery individuals from their wild counterparts, PBT identifies origin independent of physical form. We applied PBT to populations of Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss), which are classified as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act and subject to extensive hatchery supplementation efforts. For spawn years 2014–2018, 16 511 adipose-intact Chinook salmon and 21 953 adipose-intact steelhead were sampled, and PBT identified 19.6% of returning Chinook salmon and 8.3% of steelhead were of hatchery-origin, despite having no physical or mechanical marks. The 90% confidence intervals for escapement estimates of natural-origin Chinook salmon and steelhead made with and without corrections using PBT were nonoverlapping for nine of ten comparisons, indicating that failing to account for unmarked, untagged hatchery-origin fish would result in a significant overestimation of natural abundance.
COVID-19 basics and vaccine development with a Canadian perspective
Authors: Liu Marina , Chen Xiongbiao
Published: November 2020

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a rapidly evolving situation. New discoveries about COVID-19 and its causative virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), continue to deepen the understanding of this novel disease. As there is currently no COVID-19 specific treatment, isolation is the most effective method to prevent transmission. Moreover, development of a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine will be instrumental in reinstating pre-COVID-19 conditions. As of 31 July 2020, there are at least 139 vaccine candidates from around the globe in preclinical evaluation, with another 26 undergoing clinical evaluation. This paper aims to review the basics of COVID-19, including epidemiology, basic biology of SARS-CoV-2, and transmission. We also review COVID-19 vaccine development, including animal models, platforms under development, and vaccine development in Canada.
Analysis of the X0(2900) as the scalar tetraquark state via the QCD sum rules
Authors: Wang Zhi-Gang
Published: November 2020

In this article, we study the axialvector-diquark–axialvector-antidiquark (AA)-type and scalar-diquark–scalar-antidiquark (SS) type fully open flavor [Formula: see text] tetraquark states with the spin-parity [Formula: see text] via the QCD sum rules. The predicted masses [Formula: see text] GeV and [Formula: see text] GeV support assigning the [Formula: see text] to be the AA-type scalar [Formula: see text] tetraquark state.
An Integrated ARMA-Based Deep Autoencoder and GRU Classifier System for Enhanced Recognition of Daily Hand Activities
Authors: Rivera Patricio , Valarezo Edwin , Kim Tae-Seong
Published: November 2020

Recognition of hand activities of daily living (hand-ADL) is useful in the areas of human–computer interactions, lifelogging, and healthcare applications. However, developing a reliable human activity recognition (HAR) system for hand-ADL with only a single wearable sensor is still a challenge due to hand movements that are typically transient and sporadic. Approaches based on deep learning methodologies to reduce noise and extract relevant features directly from raw data are becoming more promising for implementing such HAR systems. In this work, we present an ARMA-based deep autoencoder and a deep recurrent network (RNN) using Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) for recognition of hand-ADL using signals from a single IMU wearable sensor. The integrated ARMA-based autoencoder denoises raw time-series signals of hand activities, such that better representation of human hand activities can be made. Then, our deep RNN-GRU recognizes seven hand-ADL based upon the output of the autoencoder: namely, Open Door, Close Door, Open Refrigerator, Close Refrigerator, Open Drawer, Close Drawer, and Drink from Cup. The proposed methodology using RNN-GRU with autoencoder achieves a mean accuracy of 84.94% and F1-score of 83.05% outperforming conventional classifiers such as RNN-LSTM, BRNN-LSTM, CNN, and Hybrid-RNNs by 4–10% higher in both accuracy and F1-score. The experimental results also showed the use of the autoencoder improves both the accuracy and F1-score of each conventional classifier by 12.8% in RNN-LSTM, 4.37% in BRNN-LSTM, 15.45% CNN, 14.6% Hybrid RNN, and 12.4% for the proposed RNN-GRU.
Novel Fuzzy Multi-Attribute Decision Making Method for the Selection of Open Unit Trusts Under Uncertainty
Authors: Borovička Adam
Published: November 2020

Investment decision making is a complex process. Important decision concerns the (pre)selection of potential investment instruments to compose an investment portfolio. Conscientious selection involves the application of quantitative multi-criteria procedures. The typical element of uncertainty (i.e. unstable return or investor’s vague preferences about the criteria importance) must be considered. This combination of the typical characteristics of investment on the capital market can be addressed by means of fuzzy multi-attribute decision making methods. These methods effectively quantify the vague elements by using fuzzy numbers. However, the applicability of a relevant method sufficiently depends on the actual investment decision making problem. This article focuses on open unit trusts because this market is recently becoming more popular in the Czech Republic. Unfortunately, under all the practical and theoretical specifics of this type of investment, there is no known evaluation method that can satisfactorily solved this problem. Therefore, the main aim of this article is to propose a novel fuzzy multi-attribute decision making method that works for all investment conditions. Its algorithm is inspired by some principles of the outranking methods. The evaluation of open unit trusts offered by the Česká spořitelna, clearly demonstrates all of the benefits of the proposed concept compared to the existing methods.
Uncertain Autoregressive Model via LASSO Procedure
Authors: Zhang Ziqian , Yang Xiangfeng , Gao Jinwu
Published: November 2020

Uncertain time series analysis is a method to predict future values based on imprecisely observed values. As a basic model of uncertain time series, an uncertain autoregressive model has been presented. However, the existing paper ignores the temporal dependence information embedded in time-series data. In dealing with this issue, this paper adds a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator penalty to the traditional uncertain autoregressive model and selects the optimum order of the model according to Akaike’s final prediction error criterion. Finally, two numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the model and compare the results predicted by the uncertain autoregressive model with the principle of least squares.
AN APPROXIMATION METHOD FOR PRICING CONTINUOUS BARRIER OPTIONS UNDER MULTI-ASSET LOCAL STOCHASTIC VOLATILITY MODELS
Authors: SHIRAYA KENICHIRO
Published: November 2020

This paper presents a new approximation method for pricing multi-asset continuous single-barrier options. Barrier options are frequently traded, and it is necessary for practitioners to evaluate these precisely and quickly, both for competitiveness, and for risk management. However, it is a difficult task under local stochastic volatility models. To the best of our knowledge, this paper is the first to provide an analytical approximation for continuous barrier options prices in a multi-asset environment. In numerical experiments, we examine the validity of the formula by using parameters calibrated to EURUSD European options.
Approximation of the Mumford–Shah functional by phase fields of bounded variation
Authors: Belz Sandro , Bredies Kristian
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we introduce a new phase field approximation of the Mumford–Shah functional similar to the well-known one from Ambrosio and Tortorelli. However, in our setting the phase field is allowed to be a function of bounded variation, instead of an [Formula: see text]-function. In the context of image segmentation, we also show how this new approximation can be used for numerical computations, which contains a total variation minimization of the phase field variable, as it appears in many problems of image processing. A comparison to the classical Ambrosio–Tortorelli approximation, where the phase field is an [Formula: see text]-function, shows that the new model leads to sharper phase fields.
Computational Homogenization of Heterogeneous Materials by a Novel Hybrid Numerical Scheme
Authors: Cascio Marco Lo , Grifò Marco , Milazzo Alberto , Benedetti Ivano
Published: November 2020

The Virtual Element Method (VEM) is a recent numerical technique capable of dealing with very general polygonal and polyhedral mesh elements, including irregular or non-convex ones. Because of this feature, the VEM ensures noticeable simplification in the data preparation stage of the analysis, especially for problems whose analysis domain features complex geometries, as in the case of computational micro-mechanics problems. The Boundary Element Method (BEM) is a well known, extensively used and effective numerical technique for the solution of several classes of problems in science and engineering. Due to its underlying formulation, the BEM allows reducing the dimensionality of the problem, resulting in substantial simplification of the pre-processing stage and in the reduction of the computational effort, without jeopardizing the solution accuracy. In this contribution, we explore the possibility of a coupling VEM and BEM for computational homogenization of heterogeneous materials with complex microstructures. The test morphologies consist of unit cells with irregularly shaped inclusions, representative e.g., of a fiber-reinforced polymer composite. The BEM is used to model the inclusions, while the VEM is used to model the surrounding matrix material. Benchmark finite element solutions are used to validate the analysis results.
Facile Hydrothermal Synthesis of Fe2O3/rGO Composites for Low-Cost Supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Yiping , Bai Bo , Wen Qiang , Li Pengwei , Jiang Huabei , Zhang Wendong
Published: November 2020

In this work, Fe2O3/rGO composites with high capacitive performance were synthesized via a facile hydrothermal route. The morphological and structural characteristics of the synthesized material were obtained by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The three-electrode system was employed for investigating the electrochemical performance in 6 M aqueous electrolytic solution of KOH. The electrochemical data reveals that the Fe2O3/20%rGO shows as high as 171 F g[Formula: see text] specific capacitance at 1 A g[Formula: see text] discharge current density within the operated voltage window −0.9[Formula: see text]V–0[Formula: see text]V, which is 55% higher than that of the bare Fe2O3. After 1000 cycles, the capacity reservation was retained at 74%. The results indicate that the synthesized Fe2O3/rGO material could be a potential candidate for applications in an environmentally friendly commercial electrode.
Numerical analysis approach for models of COVID-19 and other epidemics
Authors: Ritu  , Gupta Yogesh
Published: November 2020

The world wide spread of COVID-19 epidemic has instigated an unprecedented demand and supply of research related to this epidemic. Together with medical research for treatment and cure of the pandemic, efficient mathematical modeling of epidemics is the need of hour. First, this paper depicts a detailed and comprehensive compendium of various numerical methods used for infectious diseases modeling during last 14 years including the very recent work done for COVID-19 models. This gives researchers a good insight about past work done, present efforts and future scope of numerical analysis methods for epidemic modeling. Second, this paper also proposes its numerical analysis approach based on Adomian decomposition method (ADM) for generalized SEIR model of COVID-19. The proposed method is shown to give very accurate numerical results.
Energy- and trust-aware secure routing algorithm for big data classification using MapReduce framework in IoT networks
Authors: Mujeeb S. Md. , Praveen Sam R. , Madhavi K.
Published: November 2020

Due to the open nature of wireless data transmission, routing and data security pose an important research challenge in the Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled networks. Also, the characteristic features, like constrained resources, heterogeneity, uncontrolled environment, and scalability requirement, make the security issues even more challenging. Hence, an effective and secure routing protocol named modified Energy Harvesting Trust-aware Routing Algorithm (mod-EHTARA) is proposed to increase the energy efficiency and the lifespan of the nodes. The proposed mod-EHTARA is designed by adopting the Link Lifetime (LLT) model with the traditional EHTARA. The optimal secure routing path is effectively selected by the proposed mod-EHTARA using the cost metric, which considers the factors like delay, LLT, energy, and trust. The big data classification process is carried out at the Base Station (BS) using the MapReduce framework. Accordingly, the big data classification is progressed using a stacked autoencoder, which is trained by the Adaptive E-Bat algorithm. The Adaptive E-Bat algorithm is developed by integrating the adaptive concept with the Bat Algorithm (BA) and Exponential Weighted Moving Average (EWMA). The proposed mod-EHTARA showed better performance by obtaining a maximal energy of 0.9855.
Electrocaloric devices part I: Analytical solution of one-dimensional transient heat conduction in a multilayer electrocaloric system
Authors: Najmi Farrukh , Shen Wenxian , Cremaschi Lorenzo , Cheng Z.-Y.
Published: November 2020

The analytical solution is reported for one-dimensional (1D) dynamic conduction heat transfer within a multilayer system that is the typical structure of electrocaloric devices. Here, the multilayer structure of typical electrocaloric devices is simplified as four layers in which two layers of electrocaloric materials (ECMs) are sandwiched between two semi-infinite bodies representing the thermal sink and source. The temperature of electrocaloric layers can be instantaneously changed by external electric field to establish the initial temperature profile. The analytical solution includes the temperatures in four bodies as a function of both time and location and heat flux through each of the three interfaces as a function of time. Each of these analytical solutions includes five infinite series. It is proved that each of these series is convergent so that the sum of each series can be calculated using the first [Formula: see text] terms of the series. The formula for calculating the value of [Formula: see text] is presented so that the simulation of an electrocaloric device, such as the temperature distribution and heat transferred from one body to another can be performed. The value of [Formula: see text] is dependent on the thickness of electrocaloric material layers, the time of heat conduction, and thermal properties of the materials used. Based on a case study, it is concluded that the [Formula: see text] is mostly less than 20 and barely reaches more than 70. The application of the analytical solutions for the simulation of real electrocaloric devices is discussed.
Stabilizing Lithium-Sulfur Cells with Practical Loading and Cycling Conditions Using Li2S8-Containing Ethereal Electrolyte Solution
Authors: Markevich E. , Salitra G. , Yoshida H. , Sawada S. , Aurbach D.
Published: November 2020

We report on stabilization of Li–S cells cycled with an areal charge/discharge capacity of 2 mAh cm−2 at current densities of 1–2 mA cm−2 using ethereal LiTFSI/LiNO3/DOL/DME electrolyte solution containing 0.1M Li2S8. This electrolyte solution enables stable lithium metal stripping−plating both in symmetric Li∣Li and full Li–S cells with composite binder free sulfur impregnated activated carbon fibers cathodes. The addition of Li2S8 substantially extends cycling life of these cells due to the formation of smooth non-dendritic Li metal surface protected with an effective SEI enriched with Li sulfides, sulfites and sulfates species. Symmetric Li∣Li could be cycled stably for more than 1000 h at 1–2 mA cm−2 with Li2S8-containing electrolyte solutions. Full Li–S cells demonstrate more than 500 stable cycles (at least 3 times more than with Li2S8 free electrolyte solution) at a current density of 1 mA cm−2 and an areal capacity of 2 mAh cm−2. The most stable cycling results were achieved for the cells cycled with discharge cut off voltage of 1.9 V preventing the depletion of LiNO3. The use of electrolyte solutions containing liquid lithium poly-sulfides makes possible considerable decrease in the amount of the electrolyte solution and increases the energy density of the cells.
Design and Fabrication of a Plastic Biogas Digester for the Production of Biogas from Cow Dung
Authors: Obileke KeChrist , Mamphweli Sampson , Meyer Edson L. , Makaka Golden , Nwokolo Nwabunwanne
Published: November 2020

Biogas digester dimensions and materials of construction are important factors of consideration during the design and fabrication phase. The aim of this study is to provide a detailed analysis of the design and fabrication of a 2.15 m3 pilot plastic biogas digester for biogas generation. To establish this, a design equation covering the volume of the digester, inlet and outlet chambers, and digester cover plate were developed considering the shape of the digester. The digestion chamber of the biogas digester under study was fabricated using high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, while the inlet and outlet chambers were constructed with bricks/cement. The study was motivated due to some limitations such as leakage associated with previous designs. In the present study, a ventilation test was conducted after the fabrication to ensure the digester is leak free. Results obtained showed a total volumetric methane gas yield of 2.18 m3 (54.50%) and carbon dioxide yield of 1.77 m3 (44.25%) making up a total biogas yield of 4.00 m3. In addition, the percentage concentration of methane and carbon dioxide were found to be 60% and 30%, respectively. The developed plastic biogas digester has been found to be appropriate for biogas production using cow dung as substrate.
Thermal Profile of a Low-Concentrator Photovoltaic: A COMSOL Simulation
Authors: Alqurashi Maryam M. , Altuwirqi Reem M. , Ganash Entesar A.
Published: November 2020

With the gradual reduction of fossil fuels, it is essential to find alternative renewable sources of energy. It is important to take advantage of substitutes that are less expensive and more efficient in energy production. Photovoltaic concentrators (CPVs) are effective methods through which solar energy can be maximized resulting in more conversion into electrical power. V-trough concentrators are the simplest types of low-CPV in terms of design as it is limited to the use of two plane mirrors with a flat photovoltaic (PV) plate. A consequence of concentrating more solar radiation on a PV panel is an increase in its temperature that may decrease its efficiency. In this work, the thermal profile of the PV plate in a V-trough system will be determined when this system is placed in different geographical locations in Saudi Arabia. The simulation is conducted using COMSOL Multiphysics software with a ray optics package integrated with a heat transfer routine. The 21st of June was chosen to conduct the simulation as it coincides with the summer solstice. The employment of wind as a cooling method for V-troughs was investigated in this work. It was found that with the increase in wind speed, the PV panel temperature dropped significantly below its optimum operating temperature. However, due to the mirrors’ attachment to the PV panel, the temperature distribution on the surface of the panel was nonuniform. The temperature gradient on the PV surface was reduced with the increase of wind speed but not significantly. Reducing the size of the mirrors resulted in a partial coverage of solar radiation on the PV surface which helped in reducing the temperature gradient but did not eliminate it. This work can assist in testing numerous cooling models to optimize the use of V-troughs and increase its efficiency especially in locations having high ambient temperatures.
Rare Complication of Pneumomediastinum and Pneumopericardium in a Patient with COVID-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Singh Anshika , Bass Jessica , Lindner David H.
Published: November 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a recently discovered coronavirus which has caused a global outbreak of severe pneumonia with complications leading to hypoxic respiratory failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), cytokine storm, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and even gastrointestinal symptoms. While ground-glass opacity (GGO) is a typical radiographic finding associated most frequently with COVID-19 pneumonia, other less commonly noted atypical radiographic lung features include isolated lobar or segmental consolidation without GGO, discrete small nodules (centrilobular, “tree-in-bud”), lung cavitation, and smooth interlobular septal thickening with pleural effusion. Pneumomediastinum in COVID-19 patients has rarely been reported. A finding of pneumopericardium is unusual too. This report discusses the case of a young male with COVID-19 pneumonia who was found to have both these features on computed tomographic (CT) scans of his chest on presentation.
An Equivalence between the Limit Smoothness and the Rate of Convergence for a General Contraction Operator Family
Authors: Goldberg Maxim J. , Kim Seonja
Published: November 2020

LetXbe a topological space equipped with a complete positiveσ-finite measure andTa subset of the reals with0as an accumulation point. Letatx,ybe a nonnegative measurable function onX×Xwhich integrates to1in each variable. For a functionf∈L2Xandt∈T, defineAtfx≡∫ atx,yfy dy. We assume thatAtfconverges tofinL2, ast⟶0inT. For example,Atis a diffusion semigroup (withT=0,∞). ForWa finite measure space andw∈W, select real-valuedhw∈L2X, defined everywhere, withhwL2X≤1. Define the distanceDbyDx,y≡hwx−hwyL2W. Our main result is an equivalence between the smoothness of anL2Xfunctionf(as measured by anL2-Lipschitz condition involvingat·,·and the distanceD) and the rate of convergence ofAtftof.
Prevalence of Microorganisms of Public Health Significance in Ready-to-Eat Foods Sold in Developing Countries: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mengistu Dechasa Adare , Tolera Sina Temesgen
Published: November 2020

Background. The issue of microbial quality and safety of ready-to-eat foods has become a public health concern that needs to be addressed to protect the consumer’s health. Contamination of ready-to-eat foods by enteric pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria is associated with potential health risks and can cause foodborne outbreaks. Thus, the systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at determining the overall evidence on the prevalence of microorganisms of public health significance in ready-to-eat foods based on previous studies. Methods. The articles published from 2015 to 2020 were searched from multiple electronic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Science Direct, Web of Science, and the Directory of Open Access Journals. The JBI critical appraisal tool was applied to the included articles. To determine the heterogeneity among the included articles,

I

2

statistics were used while publication bias was evaluated using the visual funnel plot. A Forest plot using the random effect model for meta-analysis was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of E. coli, Salmonella, and S. aureus in ready to eat foods. Results. The pooled prevalence of E. coli, Salmonella, and S. aureus in ready to eat foods was 33.8% (95% CI: 19.9, 51.2;

Q
 
value
=
67.080

,

I

2

=
89.56
%

), 26.0% (95% CI: 13.8, 43.6%;

Q
 
value
=
83.67

,

I

2

=
91.63
%

), and 46.3% (95% CI: 24.8, 69.4%,

I

2

=
94.9
%

), respectively. Conclusion. The findings show that contamination of ready-to-eat foods with pathogenic microorganisms continues to be a public health risk. Thus, effective food hygiene and safety systems are necessary to protect the health of the consumers and the public as a whole.
A Network Pharmacology to Explore the Mechanism of Astragalus Membranaceus in the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Jin Qi , Hao Xiao-Feng , Xie Li-Ke , Xu Jing , Sun Mei , Yuan Hang , Wang Shi-Hui , Wu Gai-Ping , Miao Meng-Lu
Published: November 2020

Background. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) includes a series of typical lesions affected by retinal microvascular damage caused by diabetes mellitus (DM), which not only seriously damages the vision, affecting the life’s quality of patients, but also brings a considerable burden to the family and society. Astragalus Membranaceus (AM) is a commonly used medicine in clinical therapy of eye disorders in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In recent years, it is also used for treating DR, but the specific mechanism is unclear. Therefore, this study explores the potential mechanism of AM in DR treatment by using network pharmacology. Methods. Based on the oral bioavailability (OB) and drug likeness (DL) of two ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion) parameters, Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database (TCMSP), Swiss Target Prediction platform, GeneCards, and OMIM database were used to predict and screen the active compounds of AM, the core targets of AM in DR treatment. The Metascape data platform was used to perform Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis on the core targets. Results. 24 active compounds were obtained, such as quercetin, kaempferol, and astragaloside IV. There were 169 effective targets of AM in DR treatment, and the targets were further screened and finally, 38 core targets were obtained, such as VEGFA, AKT1, and IL‐6. EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, AGE‐RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway, and other metabolic pathways participated in oxidative stress, cell apoptosis, angiogenesis signal transduction, inflammation, and other biological processes. Conclusion. AM treats DR through multiple compounds, multiple targets, and multiple pathways. AM may play a role in the treatment of DR by targeting VEGFA, AKT1, and IL‐6 and participating in oxidative stress, angiogenesis, and inflammation.
Nocturnal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (nCPAP) Decreases High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) in Obstructive Sleep Apnea-Hypopnea Syndrome
Authors: Msaad Sameh , Chaabouni Akram , Marrakchi Rim , Boudaya Mariem , Kotti Amina , Feki Walid , Jamoussi Kamel , Kammoun Samy
Published: November 2020

Background. Systemic and airway inflammation has recently been linked to obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) and is considered to be a probable risk factor for OSAHS-induced cardiovascular damage. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), as an inflammatory mediator, may be useful for the prediction of the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and assessment of nocturnal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) therapy effect in OSAHS patients. Methods. A prospective, controlled, cross-sectional study was conducted on 64 consecutive adult subjects with suspected sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). Results. OSAHS was confirmed in 43 patients (24 normotensive and 19 hypertensive patients) and ruled out in 21 normotensive subjects (controls). The median plasma level of hs-CRP did not differ significantly between OSAHS patients and controls. It showed an unmarked rise with the severity of OSAHS (

p
=
0.20

) and was not correlated with AHI (

p
=
0.067

;

r
=
0.28

). After adjusting for cervical perimeter (CP), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and blood sugar level, hs-CRP level of 1 mg/dL or greater was significantly more often observed in OSAHS patients compared with controls (

p
=
0.032

;

OR
=
5.60

) and was also significantly associated with AHI (

p
=
0.021

). A significant decrease in the median plasma hs-CRP level was observed in CPAP compliant patients (

p
=
0.006

). Of those, only normotensive patients showed a significant decrease in plasma hs-CRP level. In hypertensive ones, however, the hs-CRP level dropped but not significantly. Using a linear regression model, the change in hs-CRP level (Δhs-CRP) following a 6-month-nCPAP therapy was found to positively correlate with the baseline hs-CRP level for both hypertensive (

p
=
0.02

;

r
=
0.68

), and even more normotensive OSAHS patients (

p
<
0.0001

;

r
=
0.89

). Conclusion. nCPAP therapy may have a cardiovascular protective effect in OSAHS patients. hs-CRP level would be useful as a valuable predictor of success in OSAHS treatment monitoring.