bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standardized ileal digestible amino acid contents in flaxseed and flaxseed meals fed to growing–finishing pigs
Authors: Koo Bonjin , Kim Jong Woong , Nyachoti Charles Martin
Published: July 2020

A total of 10 cannulated barrows with an average body weight of 55.99 ± 3.73 kg were assigned to test diets containing either full-fat flaxseed (FFS), expeller-pressed flaxseed meal (expeller-FM), or solvent-extracted flaxseed meal (solvent-FM). The standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of methionine and threonine was higher (P < 0.05) in FFS than in expeller-FM. Similarly, the SID of crude protein (CP) and threonine was higher (P < 0.05) in FFS than that in solvent-FM. However, expeller-FM and solvent-FM had greater (P < 0.05) contents of SID CP, arginine, leucine, phenylalanine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, and serine than FFS.
New high precision measurements of the cosmic charged particle rate beyond the Arctic Circle with the PolarquEEEst experiment
Authors: Abbrescia M. , Avanzini C. , Arlandoo M. , Balbi G. , Baldini L. , Ferroli R. Baldini , Batignani G. , Battaglieri M. , Boi S. , Cavazza D. , Bossini E. , Carnesecchi F. , Cicalò C. , Cifarelli L. , Coccetti F. , Coccia E. , Corvaglia A. , De Gruttola D. , De Pasquale S. , Fabbri F. , Falchieri D. , Flammini A. , Galante L. , Garbini M. , Gemme G. , Gnesi I. , Gramstad E. , Grazzi S. , Håland E. S. , Hatzifotiadou D. , La Rocca P. , Liu Z. , Lombardo L. , Mandaglio G. , Margotti A. , Maron G. , Mazziotta M. N. , Meneghini S. , Millerjord S. A. , Mulliri A. , Nania R. , Noferini F. , Nozzoli F. , Ould-Saada F. , Palmonari F. , Panareo M. , Panetta M. P. , Paoletti R. , Parvis M. , Pellegrino C. , Perasso L. , Pinazza O. , Pinto C. , Pisano S. , Riggi F. , Righini G. , Ripoli C. , Rizzi M. , Sartorelli G. , Scapparone E. , Schioppa M. , Scioli G. , Scribano A. , Selvi M. , Serri G. , Squarcia S. , Taiuti M. , Terreni G. , Torromeo G. , Travaglini R. , Trifirò A. , Trimarchi M. , Veri C. , Vistoli C. , Votano L. , Williams M. C. S. , Zichichi A. , Zuyeuski R.
Published: July 2020

The goal of the PolarquEEEst experiment was to measure the cosmic charged particle rate at latitudes greater than 66$$^{\circ }$$∘N, where no systematic and accurate measurements at sea level have ever been performed. A latitude range well above the Arctic Circle was explored on board of a sailboat, up to the unprecedented northernmost value of$$82^{\circ }07^{\prime }$$82∘07′N. In this paper a description of the experimental set-up is reported, then the procedures for calibration and data analysis are described in detail. The results show that the rate measured in this latitude range stays constant within a novel accuracy of$$\pm 1$$±1%.
Twinlike models for parametrized dark energy
Authors: Dantas J. D. , Rodrigues J. J.
Published: July 2020

We study cosmological models involving a single real scalar field that has an equation of state parameter which evolves with cosmic time. We highlight some common parametrizations for the equation of state as a function of redshift in the context of twinlike theories. The procedure is used to introduce different models that have the same acceleration parameter, with the very same energy densities and pressure in flat spacetime.
Characterization of high-purity germanium detectors with amorphous germanium contacts in cryogenic liquids
Authors: Panth R. , Liu J. , Abt I. , Liu X. , Schulz O. , Wei W.-Z. , Mei H. , Mei D.-M. , Wang G.-J.
Published: July 2020

For the first time, planar high-purity germanium detectors with thin amorphous germanium contacts were successfully operated directly in liquid nitrogen and liquid argon in a cryostat at the Max-Planck-Institut für Physics in Munich. The detectors were fabricated at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the University of South Dakota, using crystals grown at the University of South Dakota. They survived long-distance transportation and multiple thermal cycles in both cryogenic liquids and showed reasonable leakage currents and spectroscopic performance. Also discussed are the pros and cons of using thin amorphous semiconductor materials as an alternative contact technology in large-scale germanium experiments searching for physics beyond the Standard Model.
$${{\mathbb {Z}}}_2\times {{\mathbb {Z}}}_2$$-graded mechanics: the classical theory
Authors: Aizawa N. , Kuznetsova Z. , Toppan F.
Published: July 2020

$${{\mathbb {Z}}}_2\times {{\mathbb {Z}}}_2$$Z2×Z2-graded mechanics admits four types of particles: ordinary bosons, two classes of fermions (fermions belonging to different classes commute among each other) and exotic bosons. In this paper we construct the basic $${{\mathbb {Z}}}_2\times {{\mathbb {Z}}}_2$$Z2×Z2-graded worldline multiplets (extending the cases of one-dimensional supersymmetry) and compute, based on a general scheme, their invariant classical actions and worldline sigma-models. The four basic multiplets contain two bosons and two fermions. They are (2, 2, 0), with two propagating bosons and two propagating fermions, $$(1,2,1)_{[00]}$$(1,2,1)[00] (the ordinary boson is propagating, while the exotic boson is an auxiliary field), $$(1,2,1)_{[11]}$$(1,2,1)[11] (the converse case, the exotic boson is propagating, while the ordinary boson is an auxiliary field) and, finally, (0, 2, 2) with two bosonic auxiliary fields. Classical actions invariant under the $${{\mathbb {Z}}}_2\times {\mathbb {Z}}_2$$Z2×Z2-graded superalgebra are constructed for both single multiplets and interacting multiplets. Furthermore, scale-invariant actions can possess a full $${{\mathbb {Z}}}_2\times {\mathbb {Z}}_2$$Z2×Z2-graded conformal invariance spanned by 10 generators and containing an sl(2) subalgebra.
Data-driven extraction of heavy quark diffusion in quark-gluon plasma
Authors: Li Shuang , Liao Jinfeng
Published: July 2020

Heavy quark production provides a unique probe of the quark-gluon plasma transport properties in heavy ion collisions. Experimental observables like the nuclear modification factor $$R_\mathrm{AA}$$RAA and elliptic anisotropy $$v_\mathrm{2}$$v2 of heavy flavor mesons are sensitive to the heavy quark diffusion coefficient. There now exist an extensive set of such measurements, which allow a data-driven extraction of this coefficient. In this work, we make such an attempt within our recently developed heavy quark transport modeling framework (Langevin-transport with Gluon Radiation, LGR). A question of particular interest is the temperature dependence of the diffusion coefficient, for which we test a wide range of possibility and draw constraints by comparing relevant charm meson data with model results. We find that a relatively strong increase of diffusion coefficient from crossover temperature $$T_c$$Tc toward high temperature is preferred by data. We also make predictions for Bottom meson observables for further experimental tests.
THE ROLE OF IMPLICIT DETERMINANTS IN A HIGHLY LIBERALIZED EMERGING MARKET: EVIDENCE FROM MALAYSIA
Authors: YIN KOAY YIN , HOOY CHEE-WOOI
Published: July 2020

While Malaysia has fulfilled expectation of a highly liberalized market since 2009, however, her stock market is still far from fully integrated with the world market. Existing literature by far has not provided any insight on market integration of such highly liberalized yet not perfectly integrated stock market. This paper explores whether such non-perfect market integration is due to some implicit factor at firm level. Based on Errunza, V and E Losq (1989) . Capital flow controls, international asset pricing, and investors’ welfare: A multi-country framework. The Journal of Finance, 44(4), 1025–1037 asset pricing framework, we employed a multivariate GARCH-M model to estimate the monthly market integration level of Malaysia stock market with the world over a period from January 2009 to September 2016. Subsequently, we examine whether the three firm-level implicit factors, i.e., ownership concentrations, foreign ownership and firm price delay affect the Malaysia stock market’s world integration. These firm-level factors are aggregated from firm-level data while price delay was also aggregated from estimates of weekly data at firm level. In short, we found that price delay and ownership concentrations have significant negative effects on the market level integration, with the latter having a nonlinear [Formula: see text]shape effect where ownership concentration will have a positive effect passing the threshold of 52.2%. Last but not least, foreign ownership has a significant positive effect.
EFFECT OF TIO2 PARTICLES ON THE MECHANICAL AND MICROSTRUCTURAL EVOLUTION OF HYBRID ALUMINUM-BASED COMPOSITES FABRICATED BY WARB
Authors: VINI MOHAMMAD HEYDARI , DANESHMAND SAEED
Published: July 2020

In this study, the effect of powder particle contents on the mechanical properties of aluminum-based hybrid composites produced by warm accumulative roll bonding (WARB) process was investigated. Three hybrid composite groups with fully annealed AA1060 strips, 1[Formula: see text]wt.% of MnO2 and 0, 7.5 and 15[Formula: see text]wt.% of TiO2 were first roll-bonded and then the ARB process continued up to eight rolling cycles. In the WARB process, the samples were preheated at 300∘C for 5[Formula: see text]min before each rolling cycle. It was realized that increasing the number of ARB cycles with 0 and 7.5[Formula: see text]wt.% of TiO2 particles improved the uniformity of TiO2 particles distribution in the aluminum matrix. Also, in samples with high contents of TiO2 particles (15%), TiO2 clusters converted into small clusters with a better distribution through the aluminum matrix. Also, by increasing the number of cycles and TiO2 wt.% up to 15%, the tensile strength, elongation, tensile toughness and average Vickers microhardness of hybrid composites were increased first and decreased then. Moreover, the effects of ARB cycles and TiO2[Formula: see text]wt.% on the fracture surface of hybrid composites have been studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was found that all the samples fabricated with one and two ARB cycles exhibited a typical ductile fracture containing deep dimples, whereas by increasing the TiO2[Formula: see text]wt.% and ARB cycles, a combination of ductile and shear ductile fracture have been detected in the fracture behavior.
Revenue Sharing in Airline Alliance Networks
Authors: Wang Yuntong
Published: July 2020

This paper takes an axiomatic approach to the revenue sharing problem for an airline alliance network. We propose a simple sharing rule that allocates the revenue of each flight equally among the carriers of the flight. We show that it is the only rule satisfying the axioms of separability, the null airline property and equal treatment of equals. We show that the rule coincides with the Shapley value of the game associated with the problem. We provide two extensions of the rule, allowing it to depend on the lengths or the capacities of the flight legs. We also consider the maximum revenue problem for the airline alliance. We propose a simple integer linear programming model. We examine its Owen set. Lastly, we provide an algorithm to compute both the optimal solution and the revenue sharing solution given by the simple sharing rule for the maximum revenue problem.
Dynamics of Precision Guided Projectile Launch: Solid–Solid Interaction
Authors: Verberne P. , Meguid S. A.
Published: July 2020

Precision guided projectiles (PGPs) experience severe shock loads during launch emanating from the propellant gases inside the barrel and the surrounding air. The complex flow environment that exists within the confined space of the barrel and at muzzle exit is greatly influenced by the supersonic speed of the projectile, the compressibility of the air, and the rapid state transition of the projectile from the confined volume of the barrel to the surrounding free-space. In our earlier efforts (X. W. Yin, P. Verberne and S. A. Meguid, Multiphysics modelling of the coupled behaviour of precision-guided projectiles subjected to intense shock loads, Int. J. Mech. Mater. Des. 10 (2014) 439–450; P. Verberne and S. A. Meguid, The coupled behaviour of precision-guided projectiles subject to propellant induced shock loads using multiphysics analysis, in 8th Int. Conf. Mech. Mater. Des. (2019); P. Verberne and S. A. Meguid, Dynamics of precision guided projectile launch: Fluid-structure interaction, Acta Mech. (2020)) examined the fluid–solid interaction problem. In this paper, we expand our earlier effort by examining the underlying mechanisms associated with the solid–solid interaction between the projectile and the barrel walls that severely govern the survivability of the embedded electronic systems (EES). This was achieved by conducting comprehensive finite element (FE) simulations of the dynamics of the entire launch process of a projectile accounting for the intense combustion pressures of the propellant, the large accelerations experienced during the launch and the induced shock waves. Our FE simulations successfully capture the interaction of the projectile with the barrel. Our work reveals that frictional forces due to contact inside the barrel significantly affect the projectile’s acceleration response at muzzle exit. Immediately following muzzle exit, the rapid reduction of the frictional forces inside the barrel results in a rapid increase of the projectile acceleration followed by a rapid reduction due to the free expansion of the propellant gases and air drag, leading to large acceleration fluctuations.
Covariance and Spinorial Statistical Description of Simple Relativistic Stochastic Kinematics
Authors: Giona Massimiliano
Published: July 2020

It is shown that Generalized Poisson–Kac processes are closed with respect to Lorentz transformations, providing a class of covariant kinematic processes. The transformation properties of the associated partial probability densities (waves) display spinorial character in a probability space, and their spinorial character is intrinsically related to the parametrization of the internal degrees of freedom of the process. Parity function analysis associated with the bias induced in the partial-wave recombination process by a Lorentz boost, indicates a symmetry breaking in the recombination dynamics. In an inertial reference frame moving with constant velocity [Formula: see text] with respect to the rest frame of the process, stochastic fluctuations are progressively damped out till complete suppression in the limit for [Formula: see text].
On multivariate polynomials with many roots over a finite grid
Authors: Geil Olav
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we consider roots of multivariate polynomials over a finite grid. When given information on the leading monomial with respect to a fixed monomial ordering, the footprint bound [Footprints or generalized Bezout’s theorem, IEEE Trans. Inform. Theory 46(2) (2000) 635–641, On (or in) Dick Blahut’s ‘footprint’, Codes[Formula: see text] Curves Signals (1998) 3–9] provides us with an upper bound on the number of roots, and this bound is sharp in that it can always be attained by trivial polynomials being a constant times a product of an appropriate combination of terms consisting of a variable minus a constant. In contrast to the one variable case, there are multivariate polynomials attaining the footprint bound being not of the above form. This even includes irreducible polynomials. The purpose of the paper is to determine a large class of polynomials for which only the mentioned trivial polynomials can attain the bound, implying that to search for other polynomials with the maximal number of roots one must look outside this class.
Groups with finitely many non-isomorphic factor-groups
Authors: Kurdachenko Leonid A. , Longobardi Patrizia , Maj Mercede
Published: July 2020

We prove that if [Formula: see text] is either a hypercentral-by-finite group or a soluble Baer group and if [Formula: see text] has finitely many non-isomorphic factor-groups, then [Formula: see text] is a Chernikov group. The converse is also true. Furthermore, we give some information on the structure of a metabelian group with finitely many non-isomorphic factor-groups.
Analytical Scheme for Solid Stress Analysis
Authors: Rezaiee-Pajand Mohammad , Karimipour Arash
Published: July 2020

The aim of this paper is to provide a suitable formulation for obtaining an exact answer, for stress analysis of structure with linear elastic behavior. This structure is assumed to be continuous and has unique solution. All the required partial differential equations, namely the equilibrium and compatibility equations, are satisfied. Moreover, the boundary conditions are fulfilled during the solution process. A few available benchmark problems along with some proposal ones are solved analytically, as well as, numerically. Besides, the presented formulas are checked both mathematically and by using a computer program. It is concluded that authors’ scheme offers the advantage of generality and accuracies in comparison to the numerical techniques.
Nonlinear Torsional Buckling of Functionally Graded Carbon Nanotube Orthogonally Reinforced Composite Cylindrical Shells in Thermal Environment
Authors: Nam Vu Hoai , Trung Nguyen-Thoi , Phuong Nguyen Thi , Duc Vu Minh , Hung Vu Tho
Published: July 2020

This paper deals with the nonlinear large deflection torsional buckling of functionally graded carbon nanotube (CNT) orthogonally reinforced composite cylindrical shells surrounded by Pasternak’s elastic foundations with the thermal effect. The shell is made by two layers where the polymeric matrix is reinforced by the CNTs in longitudinal and circumferential directions for outer and inner layers, respectively. The stability equation system is obtained by combining the Donnell’s shell theory, von Kármán nonlinearity terms, the circumferential condition in average sense and three-state solution form of deflection. The critical torsional buckling load, postbuckling load-deflection and the load-end shortening expressions are obtained by applying the Galerkin procedure. The effects of temperature change, foundation parameters, geometrical properties and CNT distribution law on the nonlinear behavior of cylindrical shell are numerically predicted. Especially, the effect of orthogonal reinforcement in comparison with longitudinal and circumferential reinforcement on the torsional buckling behavior of shells is observed.
In situ Synthesis of Nickel-Dimethylglyoxime/Black Phosphorus Nanorods for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production from Water Splitting
Authors: Wang Hui’e
Published: July 2020

Here, a novel material consisting of black phosphorus (BP) and nickel-dimethylglyoxime nanorods was successfully prepared via a facile in situ calcination strategy, which possesses efficient catalytic activity for hydrogen production from water splitting. The reason for this phenomenon was explained by a series of characterization technologies such as SEM, TEM, XRD, UV–Vis, XPS and photoelectrochemical. We demonstrated that the fast e− transport channels were provided by the formed hollow structure of C@Ni-D nanorods, the highly exposed active sites on C@Ni-BP nanorods benefiting from the direct in situ growth of BP, the resulted synergetic effects of C@Ni-D-2 nanorods and BP achieved a better performance of photocatalytic hydrogen production from water splitting. The optimal hydrogen generation of C@Ni-BP-2 nanorods could reach up to 600[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mol within 180[Formula: see text]min and the rate of hydrogen production did not decrease significantly after four repeated reaction cycles. This work may offer new direction in situ growth of novel catalysts for achieving highly efficient hydrogen production.
Conscious Machines: A Possibility? If So, How?
Authors: Manzotti Riccardo , Chella Antonio
Published: July 2020

The scope of the paper is to encourage scientists and engineering to avoid to do what Einstein pointed out as being the hallmark of folly. Machine consciousness scholars must be brave enough to step out of the beaten path. There must be some big recurrent conceptual mistakes that prevent science and technology from addressing machine consciousness.
Designing Successful ePortfolio Practices
Authors: Samuel Anita
Published: July 2020

This article reviews Eynon and Gambino's book
High-impact ePortfolio Practice: A catalyst for student, faculty, and institutional learning
.
An RDE Approach to Investigate the Influence of Chromate on the Cathodic Kinetics on 7XXX Series Al Alloys under Simulated Thin Film Electrolytes
Authors: Charles-Granville Utibe-Eno , Liu Chao , Scully John R. , Kelly Robert G.
Published: July 2020

The effect of sodium chromate on the cathodic current availability pertinent to the micro-galvanic-induced corrosion of high-strength AA7XXX alloys under simulated thin electrolyte films representative of atmospheric conditions was investigated utilizing a combination of electrochemical and surface characterization techniques. The rotating disk electrode technique provided a means to simulate the effects of water layer thickness to differentiate thin film conditions from full immersion conditions, and enabled the study of the mass-transport-limited oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on AA7XXX alloys as a function of chromate concentration. The ORR current density decreased by up to two orders of magnitude upon addition of 10 mM chromate, however, the degree of inhibition was observed to depend on the Cu content of the alloy. Chromate was reduced irreversibly to form a Cr3+-rich film on the alloy surface that blocked cathodic sites and hindered ORR. This film was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic characterization of the chemistry and thickness of the chromate-induced layer formed on the specimens after exposure to chromate. The layer was approximately 13 nm in thickness and consisted of mixed Cr3+/Cr6+ oxides with some metallic Cr. Studies on a Pt electrode demonstrated the intrinsic ability of chromate as an effective inhibitor for ORR.
TRPV4 channels’ dominant role in the temperature modulation of intrinsic contractility and lymph flow of rat diaphragmatic lymphatics
Authors: Solari Eleonora , Marcozzi Cristiana , Bistoletti Michela , Baj Andreina , Giaroni Cristina , Negrini Daniela , Moriondo Andrea
Published: July 2020

The present work addresses the putative receptor system that enables diaphragmatic lymphatics to change intrinsic contraction frequency and thus lymph flow according to the changes in temperature of the surrounding environment, showing that this role can be sustained by TRPV4 channels alone.
Vehicle Speed Optimized Fuzzy Energy Management for Hybrid Energy Storage System in Electric Vehicles
Authors: Zhang Xizheng , Lu Zhangyu , Lu Ming
Published: July 2020

Energy management strategy (EMS) is a key issue for hybrid energy storage system (HESS) in electric vehicles. By innovatively introducing the current speed information, the vehicle speed optimized fuzzy energy management strategy (VSO-FEMS) for HESS is proposed in this paper. Firstly, the pruned fuzzy rules are formulated by the SOC change of battery and super-capacitor to preallocate the required power of vehicle. Then, the real-time vehicle speed is used to optimize the pre-allocated results based on the principle of vehicle dynamics, so as to realize the optimal allocation of required power. To validate the proposed VSO-FEMS strategy for HESS, simulations were done and compared with other EMSs under the typical urban cycle in China (CYC-CHINA). Results show that the final SOC of battery and super-capacitor are optimized in varying degrees, and the total energy consumption under the VSO-FEMS strategy is 2.43% less than rule-based strategy and 1.28% less than fuzzy control strategy, which verifies the effectiveness of the VSO-FEMS strategy.
Experimental Study on Characteristics of Seismic Damage and Damping Technology of Absorbing Joint of Tunnel Crossing Interface of Soft and Hard Rock
Authors: Wang Dao-yuan , Yuan Jin-xiu , Cui Guang-yao , Liu Jia , Wang Hong-fan
Published: July 2020

It has generally been believed that the serious seismic damage of tunnel mainly occurred in portal section and fault dislocation zone. However, the survey of seismic damage showed that the seismic damage of tunnel also mainly occurred in geological section at interface of soft and hard rock. Currently, merely scholars have made some research studies on characteristics of seismic damage and damping technology of tunnel crossing the vertical interface between soft and hard rock in high intensity area, and the mechanism of seismic damage has not been clearly revealed. Therefore, based on the Urumqi Metro Tunnel project in China, a three-dimensional six-degree-of-freedom shaking table model test was carried out. Through comparative analysis of peak ground acceleration (PGA), displacement difference at the interface between soft and hard rock, and structural safety factor under 5 kinds of conditions, the seismic damage characteristics of tunnel crossing interface of soft and hard rock were revealed, and a new damping technology of absorbing joint was proposed. The following findings can be drawn. (1) The seismic damage of tunnel is mainly affected by stratum inertial force under the homogeneous stratum of soft rock. The seismic damage of tunnel is mainly caused by the forced displacement (the displacement difference between the two sides of interface of soft and hard rock), followed by stratum inertial force under the geological condition of interface between soft and hard rock. (2) The conventional type of absorbing joint (only the second lining is set with absorbing joint) is used in tunnel lining structure, and the damping ratios of principal tensile stress, bending moment, and axial force of lining are above 47.5%, 40.7%, and 72.7%, respectively. Compared with conventional type of absorbing joint, the damping effect of new type of absorbing joint (staggered absorbing joints of primary support and secondary lining) is 19.9% higher than that of conventional type. (3) The new type of absorbing joint is recommended for tunnel crossing interface section of soft and hard rock. The specific implementation suggestions are as follows: the setting interval of second lining absorbing joint is the same as the length of lining formwork trolley, and the interval of primary support absorbing joint can be set according to excavation footage length. The filling materials in second lining absorbing joint can be shared with the rubber waterstop set in construction joint, and the primary support absorbing joint can be realized by injecting mixtures of rubber particles and shotcrete.
A 10‐Year Risk of Cardiovascular Disease among Patients with Severe Mental Illness at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Southwestern Uganda
Authors: Agaba David Collins , Migisha Richard , Lugobe Henry Mark , Katamba Godfrey , Ashaba Scholastic
Published: July 2020

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Patients with severe mental illness (SMI) are at a higher risk for developing CVD and have a higher risk for harboring factors related to CVD. In addition to the effects of antipsychotic medications, unhealthy lifestyle factors, such as poor diet, inadequate physical activity, cigarette smoking, and sedentary behaviors, are known to be risk factors that may contribute to poor cardiovascular health in patients with SMI. Early identification of individuals at elevated risk of CVD is essential so that dietary and lifestyle modifications or pharmacological interventions can be prescribed to alleviate the risk of cardiovascular disease. The objective of the study was to determine the 10‐year risk of cardiovascular disease among patients with severe mental illness at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, southwestern Uganda. We conducted a cross‐sectional study at the outpatient mental health clinic of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, between October 2018 and March 2019. We used the Globorisk CVD risk score to estimate the 10‐year risk of CVD among patients with SMI, using the online Globorisk calculator. Participants were then assigned to one of three categories depending on their 10‐year CVD risk score: <3% (low), 3–10% (intermediate), and >10% (high). We calculated the risk scores of 125 participants aged 40‐74 years. Most of the participants were female 75 (60%), had a diagnosis of bipolar disorder 75 (60%), and had mental illness for ≥10 years 57 (46%). Eighty five percent (85%) of the participants had intermediate to high 10‐year risk of CVD (64% with intermediate and 21% with high risk). The average risk score was significantly higher in males compared to females, 8.82% versus 6.43%, p = 0.016. We detected a high 10‐year risk of CVD in a significant proportion of patients with SMI in southwestern Uganda. We recommend lifestyle modifications and pharmacological interventions to reverse risk or delay progression to CVD in this patient population.
Mass Psychogenic Illness in Haraza Elementary School, Erop District, Tigray, Northern Ethiopia: Investigation to the Nature of an Episode
Authors: Ajemu Kiros Fenta , Weldearegay Tewolde Wubayehu , Bezabih Nega Mamo , Meles Yrgalem , Mehari Goytom , Desta Abraham Aregay , Berhe Asfawosen Aregay , Jorjo Micheale , Weldegebriel Ataklti Gebretsadik , Gebru Tesfay Subagadis , Tesfadingle Abenezer
Published: July 2020

Background. Mass psychogenic illness has been documented for more than 600 years in a variety of cultural, ethnic, and religious settings. We aimed to assess the nature and characteristics of mass psychogenic illness and to evaluate community awareness and perception about the treatment they practiced in Haraza Elementary School, Erop district, Tigray, Northern Ethiopia. Methods. A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Haraza Elementary School from January to February, 2020. Students who were victims of an episode were subjects of the study. A total of twelve students were investigated using a semistructured questionnaire for a quantitative study. Seven key informant interviews were conducted using a guiding questionnaire. Quantitative data was analyzed using XL sheet while qualitative data were analyzed manually. Results. The mean age of study participants was 14 years (SD±1.3). The majority (87%) were teenage female students. The incident was an unspecified disease with psychiatric disorder, migraine, and syncope with no plausible organic causes. An important feature of migraine and syncope was their comorbidity with mass psychogenic illness. The community perceived that evil devil force and blaming the being as an evil eye were common causes of the occurrence of an episode. Conclusion. Lack of empirical knowledge and awareness about its management and prevention among community members and health professionals resulted exaggerated rumor that would perceive as newly emerging disease that affected school activities. Integrating MPI in PHEM package at health facility level, advocacy workshops for media, and other relevant stakeholders will minimize its impact for the future.
A Rare Case of Giant Mesenteric Lipoblastoma in a 6-Year-Old Child and Review of the Literature
Authors: Miscia Maria Enrica , Lisi Gabriele , Lauriti Giuseppe , Riccio Angela , Di Renzo Dacia , Cascini Valentina , Lelli Chiesa Pierluigi
Published: July 2020

Giant mesenteric lipoblastoma is a rare benign tumor arising from the adipocytes. It can mimic malignant tumors, and its diagnosis is difficult before surgery. Imaging studies could lead the diagnosis but not confirm it. Those tumors arising in the abdomen are usually larger and can cause symptoms of compression. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice, and a long-term follow-up is necessary to detect local recurrences. Only a few cases of lipoblastomas arising from the mesentery are reported in literature. We present a case of a rare giant lipoblastoma arising from the mesentery of a 6-year-old girl, with a history of postprandial abdominal pain.
A Fatal Case of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) Complicated with Diabetes Insipidus (DI): A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Mushtaq Muhammad Zain , Mahmood Saad Bin Zafar , Aziz Adil
Published: July 2020

Naegleria fowleri is a highly infective free-living amoeba usually isolated from soil and fresh water and is primarily found to infect the central nervous system (CNS) resulting in primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). PAM as a cause of meningitis is often overlooked for other, more common causes of meningitis. Despite all the advances in antimicrobial therapy and supportive care systems, the mortality rate of this rare infection remains above 95% with the bulk of the cases being found in developed countries. We are presenting a case of a 44-year-old male with fever, worsening headache, and generalized weakness. Lumbar puncture showed a raised leucocyte count of 1100/µL with predominant polymorphonuclear cells, and wet mount prep for Naegleria fowleri was positive further confirmed with PCR. The patient was started Intravenous (IV) and intrathecal amphotericin-B, Per Oral (PO) miltefosine, IV rifampin, IV fluconazole, and IV dexamethasone. However, the patient started producing urine at 300–500 ml/hour. The patient’s sodium levels increased from 144 to 175 mmol/L in 12 hours with raised serum osmolality and decreased urine osmolality and urine sodium. The patient was started on PO desmopressin of 0.2 micrograms twice daily after which his urine output dropped to 60–80 ml/hour and sodium decreased from 175 to 162 and, later 155 mmol/L; however, the patient expired. PAM is a rare and extremely fatal illness, but with increasing incidence now being reported in developing countries as a result of better diagnostics. DI is a very rare complication reported in these patients leading to poor outcome. The complication of diabetes insipidus (DI) has not been extensively studied in patients having PAM. Only three cases have been reported with this complication. No mechanism has been mentioned in the literature behind the development of DI in these patients, and no study has mentioned laboratory details of DI as mentioned in this report.
Supply Chain Decision-Making and Coordination considering Anticipated Regret under Price Discount
Authors: Jian Jie , Li Huipeng , Zhang Nian , Su Jiafu
Published: July 2020

The increasing homogeneous product market has made more competition among companies to focus on improving customers’ experience. In order to get more competitive advantages, companies often launch discount products to attract consumers. However, stimulated by discount products, the perception of anticipated regret is becoming stronger, which is an inevitable issue in front of companies with price discount strategy. Considering the impact of anticipated regret for discount products, this paper quantitatively describes the utility functions and deduces the demand functions of original price products and discount products. The theoretical analysis and numerical simulation are used to analyze centralized and decentralized models of supply chain for discount products. On its basis, the revenue-sharing contract is designed to optimize the profits of supply chain. This paper finds that the price of products increases first and then decreases with the increase of regret sensitivity coefficient and consumer heterogeneity. When the regret sensitivity coefficient and consumer heterogeneity are lower, companies in the supply chain can adopt the “skimming pricing” strategy in order to obtain more profits. When the regret sensitivity coefficient and consumer heterogeneity increase, companies in the supply chain can adopt “penetrating pricing” strategies to stimulate market demand. For high regret consumers, manufacturers can adopt a “commitment advertising” strategy to promise price and quality, and retailers can adopt a “prestige pricing” strategy to reduce consumer perception of regret. In response to products with higher differences in consumer acceptance, manufacturers can adopt a “differentiated customization” strategy to meet different types of consumer demand and retailers can adopt a “differential pricing” strategy for precise marketing.
Research Progress on NK Cell Receptors and Their Signaling Pathways
Authors: Chen Yingying , Lu Dan , Churov Alexey , Fu Rong
Published: July 2020

Natural killer cells (NK cells) play an important role in innate immunity. NK cells recognize self and nonself depending on the balance of activating receptors and inhibitory receptors. After binding to their ligands, NK cell receptors trigger subsequent signaling conduction and then determine whether NK is activated or inhibited. Furthermore, NK cell response includes cytotoxicity and cytokine release, which is tightly related to the activation of NK cell-activating receptors and the inhibition of inhibitory receptors on the surfaces of NK cells. The expression and function of NK cell surface receptors also alter in virus infection, tumor, and autoimmune diseases and influence the occurrence and development of diseases. So, it is important to understand the mechanism of recognition between NK receptors and their ligands in pathological conditions and the signaling pathways of NK cell receptors. This review mainly summarizes the research progress on NK cell surface receptors and their signal pathways.
Association betweenHelicobacter pyloriInfection and Occurrence of Anemia among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care in Kulito Health Center, Halaba Zone, South Ethiopia, 2018
Authors: Abdella Bahredin , Ibrahim Mohammed , Tadesse Iyasu , Hassen Kalkidan , Tesfa Mekonnin
Published: July 2020

Background. Anemia in pregnancy is defined as a hemoglobin (Hb) concentration of less than 11 grams (gm)/deciliter (dl) in venous blood. Globally, it affects 1.62 billion people. In developing countries, anemia is a major cause of maternal and child morbidity and mortality. Globally, anemia contributes to 20% of all maternal deaths. Nearly 50% of the world’s population is estimated to be infected withHelicobacter pylori(HP). High prevalence of HP among pregnant women was also reported in developing countries than developed ones. The association between HP infection and occurrence of anemia is not well known in Ethiopia. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the association between anemia andHelicobacter pyloriinfection among pregnant women attending antenatal care follow-up in Kulito Health Center, Halaba Zone, South Ethiopia.Methods. Institution-based cross-sectional study was employed. Systematic random sampling procedure was employed to select 236 pregnant women who attended antenatal care at Kulito Health Center. An interviewer-administered questionnaire supplemented by laboratory tests was used to obtain the data. The collected data were analyzed by using SPSS version 20.0.Results. The prevalence of anemia among antenatal care attendant pregnant women of Kulito Health Center was 27.5% with 36 (15.2%) of mild, 29 (12.3%) of moderate, and no severe cases of anemia. The overall prevalence of HP infection among study participants was found to be 129 (54.7%) (95% CI: 47.9–61.4). Factors significantly associated with anemia were presence of HP infection (AOR = 3.064, 95% CI: 1.336 7.027), low interpregnancy gap (AOR = 2.863, 95% CI: 1.245–6.582), being on the third trimester (AOR = 6.457; 95% CI: 1.276–32.729), and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) level<21 cm (AOR = 2.595, 95% CI: 1.044–6.450).Conclusion. This study revealed that anemia and HP infection were highly prevalent among pregnant women attending the antenatal follow-up clinic in Kulito Health Center. HP infection, low interpregnancy gap, being on the third trimester, and MUAC less than 21 cm were the independent factors associated with anemia.Recommendation. Pregnant women should be aware that anemia is a problem that can be prevented by early prevention and treatment of HP infection and undernutrition, using family planning to widen the interpregnancy gap. Further experimental studies are warranted to determine the cause and effect of the association between anemia and HP infection.
Enhancing the Quality of the Characteristic Transmittance Curve in the Infrared Region of Range 2.5–7 µm of the Optical Magnesium Fluoride (MgF2) Ceramic Using the Hot‐Pressing Technique in a Vacuum Environment
Authors: Hieu Nguyen Tuan , Do Van Thom , Thai Nguyen Dinh , Long Tran Duc , Van Minh Phung
Published: July 2020

This paper carries out an experimental study to enhance the quality of the characteristic transmittance curve in the infrared range of 2.5–7 µm of the optical magnesium fluoride (MgF2) ceramic. This work evaluates the effectiveness of using vacuum environment in the MgF2 ceramic hot‐pressing technique by comparing the density and the quality of the transmittance characteristic curve of two types of specimens manufactured by the hot‐pressing technique corresponding to open air and vacuum environment under the same technological parameters including temperature 650°C, time 30 min, and pressure 200 MPa. The results present that, in comparison with using the hot‐pressing technique in the open air, when using the hot‐pressing technique in a vacuum environment, the transmittance increases about 4–10%, the characteristic transmittance curve is smoother and has fewer peak points, and the wide of peak points are smaller. When hot‐pressing in a vacuum environment, the temperature can be up to 750°C in order to obtain the magnesium fluoride (MgF2) ceramic with the highest quality of characteristic line in the infrared range of 2.5–7 µm. Seventeen specimens are manufactured to conduct the experimental study in order to figure out the optimal set of technological parameters (temperature T = 640.9°C, time t = 33.0 min, and pressure P = 231.4 MPa) when hot‐pressing in a vacuum environment by the experimental planning approach.
Temporal Change in Blood Group after Bone Marrow Transplant: A Case of Successful ABO-Incompatible Deceased Donor Transplant
Authors: Lam Susanna , Hultin Sebastian , Preston John , Campbell Scott
Published: July 2020

ABO-incompatible kidney transplantation has been successfully utilised in a deceased donor and living donor kidney transplantation to improve organ utilisation and decrease waiting times. We describe a case of a successful, unanticipated ABO-incompatible donation after cardiac death (DCD) kidney transplant in a patient who had a previous ABOi haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) and had reverted to his original blood group B, after matching as a blood group A recipient with a blood group A donor. The recipient was unsensitized with a cPRA which was 0% and no donor-specific antibodies and zero HLA mismatch. An urgent anti-A titre was 1 : 2. Given the low antibody titres, we proceeded to transplantation. The patient developed delayed graft function and required dialysis on postoperative day 1 and day 2. The creatinine fell spontaneously on day 5, with progressively increased urine output and stable graft function on discharge at day 6. Anti-A titres were 1 : 1 on serial postoperative measurements. There were no rejection episodes, and the patient has a functioning graft at 16 months posttransplant. We describe a rare case in which the blood group can change after stem cell transplant and should be checked. We also demonstrate that a DCD ABOi transplant in the context of low anti-A titres for a patient with previous ABOi stem cell transplant can be performed successfully with standard immunosuppression.
Wilson’s Disease: Diagnosis of Wilson’s Disease in Ethiopian Young Sisters
Authors: Bekele Nebiyu , Ewnetu Frew , Hailu Tigest , Tegegne Zerubabel , Tadesse Abilo
Published: July 2020

Background. Wilson’s disease is an inherited autosomal recessive disorder of copper metabolism. Clinical signs, biochemical parameters, histologic findings, and/or ATP7B genetic testing are required to diagnose Wilson’s disease. Case Presentation. 25-year-old and 22-year-old young women (siblings) presented to the University of Gondar Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia, with difficulty of keeping balance of 3-year duration and progressive extremity weakness of 5-year duration, respectively. Both siblings had visible ocular Kayser–Fleischer rings, low serum ceruloplasmin level and increased urinary copper content, ultrasound-evidenced cirrhotic liver disease, and axial T2-weighted MRI hyperintensities in basal ganglia, thalamus, and brainstem (midbrain and pons). Diagnosis of Wilson’s disease was established in both patients using a diagnostic scoring system proposed by “8th International Meeting on Wilson Disease and Menkes Disease, Leipzig (2001).” Treatment with D-penicillamine as a chelator and zinc sulphate as a metalothionein-inductor was started. Screening of their family members was recommended. Conclusion. Wilson’s disease, declared to be an orphan disease, requires clinical acumen of physicians and expensive investigation modalities for prompt recognition and is inaccessible as required, lifelong drugs for treatment.
Capacity of Cooperative Spatial Modulation (CSM) System with Optimum Relay Selection
Authors: Hassan Jamal A. , Mustafa Samah A.
Published: July 2020

In this work, the capacity of the cooperative spatial modulation (CSM) system is analysed. Relay-aided transmission is considered to improve the coverage and the reliability using decode and forward scheme. Due to the nonclosed form of the spatial modulation capacity function, its upper and lower bounds are derived. The lower bound of the capacity is exploited to formulate the optimal relay selection problem to maximize the channel utilization, where the optimal relay selection algorithm (ORSA) and modified maximum harmonic mean (MMHM) are proposed to select single or multiple relays. A comparison study in terms of the performance and the computational complexity is presented for the evaluation purpose. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm significantly improves the capacity of CSM compared to other most popular relay selection strategies.
Polyparasitism with Malaria and Intestinal Parasite Infections among Infants and Preschool-Aged Children in Egbedore, Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Odoemene S. N. , Oluwole A. S. , Mogaji H. O. , Adegbola M. V. , Omitola O. O. , Bayegun A. A. , Ojo D. A. , Sam-Wobo S. O. , Ekpo U. F.
Published: July 2020

Polyparasitism is widespread in many communities in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, there is paucity of data on polyparasitism in infants and preschool-aged children (IPSAC), to inform policy developments. Therefore, a survey of 1110 consented IPSAC was undertaken in Egbedore Local Government Area (LGA), Osun State, Nigeria, to determine the prevalence of polyparasitism in IPSAC in ten randomly selected rural communities. Fresh stool and blood samples were collected and processed for intestinal parasites and malaria infection. Mothers/caregivers were interviewed using a structured questionnaire to obtain demographic data of their IPSAC and to document knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) on parasitic infections. Data obtained through the questionnaire were analyzed using EpiData version 3.1, while parasitological data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 20.0). Descriptive statistics were computed for demographic data and association which were tested using bivariate analysis at a 95% confidence level while significance was set at p<0.05. The results showed that 349 (46.29%) were infected with a single parasite. Infants and preschool-aged children infected with double, triple, and quadruple parasites are 268 (35.54%), 122 (16.18%), and 15 (1.99%), respectively. The prevalence of polyparasitism is 405 (53.71%). Although females (54.07%) were more infected than males (45.93%), there was no significant difference (p>0.05) observed. Significantly (p<0.05) more preschool children (65.93%) harbour more infections than the infants do (34.07%). Ara community (14.81%) had the highest cases of polyparasitized IPSAC, but no significant difference (p>0.05) was observed across the communities. Double parasitic infection of Plasmodium falciparum and Ascaris lumbricoides (30.12%) and triple parasitic infection of P. falciparum, A. lumbricoides, and T. trichiura (14.81%) were the most common forms of polyparasitism encountered in the study. This study showed that polyparasitism is a burden in IPSAC and needs further investigation.