bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of patient activation interventions on health-related behavioral outcomes in adults with chronic kidney disease: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Lunardi Laura E. , Bennett Paul N. , Hill Kathy , Eckert Marion , Corsini Nadia
Published: August 2021

Objective:

This review aims to examine the effect of patient activation interventions compared with usual care on health-related behavioral outcomes in adults with chronic kidney disease stages 3-5.

Introduction:

Chronic kidney disease is a global health problem associated with a high mortality, reduction of health-related quality of life, and high health care costs. The chronic nature requires active involvement and self-management of the person with chronic kidney disease. Patient activation is a self-management approach that refers to the knowledge, confidence, and skills of people to enable them to manage their own health needs. However, the effectiveness of patient activation interventions on health-related behavioral outcomes in this population have not yet been systematically evaluated.

Inclusion criteria:

This systematic review will include primary research studies measuring the effect of behavioral change interventions addressing beliefs, knowledge, confidence, and/or skills to optimize self-management in adult patients with chronic kidney disease stages 3-5 who are not receiving dialysis. Studies included in this review will be randomized controlled trials.

Methods:

Published studies will be searched in MEDLINE, Embase, Emcare, and PsycINFO. Unpublished studies and gray literature sources will also be searched. Titles and abstracts of search results published in English from 2005 onward will be screened, and the full text of potentially relevant studies will be assessed in detail. Studies selected for inclusion will undergo critical appraisal. Data extracted will include specific details about population, study methods, interventions, and outcomes. Studies will be pooled in statistical meta-analysis, if possible.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42020205084
Fluid and protein exchange in microvascular networks: Importance of modelling heterogeneity in geometrical and biophysical properties
Authors: Guidoboni Giovanna , Marazzi Nicholas M. , Fraser Joshua , Sacco Riccardo , Palaniappan Kannappan , Huxley Virginia H.
Published: August 2021

Key points

Microvascular network architecture defines coupling of fluid and protein exchange.

Network arrangements markedly reduce capillary hydrostatic pressures and resting fluid movement at the same time as increasing the capacity for change

The presence of vascular remodelling or angiogenesis puts constraints of network behaviour

The sites of fluid and protein exchange can be segregated to different portions of the network

Although there is a net filtration of fluid from a network of exchange vessels, there are specific areas where fluid moves into the circulation (reabsorption) and, when protein is moving into tissue, the amount is insufficient under basal conditions to result in changes in oncotic pressure.

Integration of functional results obtained across scales, from chemical signalling to the whole organism, is a daunting task requiring the marriage of experimental data with mathematical modelling. In the present study, a novel coupled computational fluid dynamics model is developed incorporating fluid and protein transport using measurements in an in vivo frog (Rana pipiens) mesenteric microvascular network. The influences of network architecture and exchange are explored systematically under the common assumptions of structurally and functionally identical microvessels (Homogeneous Scenario) or microvessels classified by position in flow (Class Uniform Scenario), which are compared with realistic microvascular network components (Heterogeneous Scenario). The model incorporates ten quantities that vary within a microvessel; pressure boundary conditions are calibrated against experimental measurements. The Homogeneous Scenario standard model showed that assuming a single ‘typical’ capillary hides the influence of vessels arranged into a network architecture, where capillary hydrostatic pressures (pT) are reduced, resulting in both a nonuniform distribution of blood flow and reduced volume flow rate (Jf,T). In the Class Uniform Scenario pT was further attenuated to produce a ∼60% reduction in Jf,T. Finally, the Heterogeneous Scenario, incorporating measures of individual vessel surface area, demonstrates additional lowering of pT from inlet values favouring a >70% reduction of Jf,T in the face of a ∼120% increase in protein movement into the tissues relative to the Homogeneous Scenario. Beyond the impacts of network architecture, an unanticipated finding was the influence of a blind‐end microvessel on model convergence, indicating a profound influence of the largely unexplored dynamics of vascular remodelling on tissue perfusion.
Semantic Networks for Engineering Design: State of the Art and Future Directions
Authors: Han Ji , Sarica Serhad , Shi Feng , Luo Jianxi
Published: August 2021

In the past two decades, there has been increasing use of semantic networks in engineering design for supporting various activities, such as knowledge extraction, prior art search, idea generation and evaluation. Leveraging large-scale pre-trained graph knowledge databases to support engineering design-related natural language processing (NLP) tasks has attracted a growing interest in the engineering design research community. Therefore, this paper aims to provide a survey of the state-of-the-art semantic networks for engineering design and propositions of future research to build and utilize large-scale semantic networks as knowledge bases to support engineering design research and practice. The survey shows that WordNet, ConceptNet and other semantic networks, which contain common-sense knowledge or are trained on non-engineering data sources, are primarily used by engineering design researchers to develop methods and tools. Meanwhile, there are emerging efforts in constructing engineering and technical-contextualized semantic network databases, such as B-Link and TechNet, through retrieving data from technical data sources and employing unsupervised machine learning approaches. On this basis, we recommend six strategic future research directions to advance the development and uses of large-scale semantic networks for artificial intelligence applications in engineering design.
Lid-Driven Square Cavity Flow: A Benchmark Solution With an 8192 × 8192 Grid
Authors: Marchi Carlos Henrique , Santiago Cosmo Damião , Carvalho, Jr. Carlos Alberto Rezende de
Published: August 2021

The incompressible steady-state fluid flow inside a lid-driven square cavity was simulated using the mass conservation and Navier–Stokes equations. This system of equations is solved for Reynolds numbers of up to 10,000 to the accuracy of the computational machine round-off error. The computational model used was the second-order accurate finite volume (FV) method. A stable solution is obtained using the iterative multigrid methodology with 8192 × 8192 volumes, while degree-10 interpolation and Richardson extrapolation were used to reduce the discretization error. The solution vector comprised five entries of velocities, pressure, and location. For comparison purposes, 65 different variables of interest were chosen, such as velocity profile, its extremum values and location, and extremum values and location of the stream function. The discretization error for each variable of interest was estimated using two types of estimators and their apparent order of accuracy. The variations of the 11 selected variables are shown across 38 Reynolds number values between 0.0001 and 10,000. In this study, we provide a more accurate determination of the Reynolds number value at which the upper secondary vortex appears. The results of this study were compared with those of several other studies in the literature. The current solution methodology was observed to produce the most accurate solution till date for a wide range of Reynolds numbers.
Verification and Validation of High-Fidelity Open-Source Simulation Tools for Supersonic Aircraft Aerodynamic Analysis
Authors: Stoldt Henry H. , Korobenko Artem , Ziade Paul , Johansen Craig T.
Published: August 2021

Small supersonic vehicle concepts used as research platforms to test new aerospace technologies, such as advanced propulsion systems or large sensor payloads, require major modifications to conventional, large-scale, manned, supersonic airframe design. High-fidelity numerical simulation of these concepts in academic settings often requires the use of in-house or available open-source tools instead of expensive commercial software or those with export-control restrictions. A verification and validation analysis of two widely-used open-source compressible-flow solvers, rhoCentralFoam (rCF) and su2, is performed for several flow problems relevant to the supersonic aerodynamics of small-scale, autonomous aircraft concepts. The one-dimensional shock tube problem, two-dimensional supersonic turbulent boundary layer, and three-dimensional delta wing are simulated with both solvers. The effects of flux scheme, flux limiters, and Courant–Friedrichs–Lewy (CFL) number on solution accuracy, stability, and solver speed are assessed. The solvers' limitations and their usefulness as supersonic aircraft design tools in a holistic sense are discussed.
Dissipative time-domain one-dimensional model for viscothermal acoustic propagation in wind instruments
Authors: Thibault Alexis , Chabassier Juliette
Published: August 2021

Accurate modeling of the acoustic propagation in tubes of varying cross section in musical acoustics must include the effects of the viscous and thermal boundary layers. Models of viscothermal losses are classically written in the frequency domain. An approximate time-domain model is proposed in which all of the physical parameters of the instrument, the bore shape or the wave celerity, are explicit coefficients. The model depends on absolute tabulated constants, which only reflect that the pipe is axisymmetric. It can be understood as a telegrapher's equations augmented by an adjustable number of auxiliary unknowns. A global energy is dissipated. A time discretization based on variational approximation is proposed along with numerical experiments and comparisons with other models.
Mahjong Playing and Leisure Physical Activity Alleviate Cognitive Symptoms in Older Community Residents
Authors: Ding Ming , Ouyang Hui , Zhang Caiyun , Jiang Lijun , Zhuang Runsen , Dong Xiaomei , Chen Xiongfei , Yang Hongmei , Tao Qian
Published: August 2021

Leisure activities, particularly physically and cognitively stimulating leisure activities, mitigate cognitive decline. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between mahjong playing, leisure physical activity, and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Older adults with and without MCI were recruited (n = 489, healthy group; and n = 187, MCI group). The regression results showed that years of mahjong playing (odds ratio = 0.595, 95% confidence interval [0.376, 0.961], p = .032) and physical activity (odds ratio = 0.572, 95% confidence interval [0.381, 0.849], p = .012) were associated with reduced odds of having MCI after adjusting for a series of covariates. Leisure physical activity and mahjong playing interacted with each other and produced combined effects on the odds of having MCI. Combined cognitive and physical interventions may produce larger benefits on cognition than either intervention alone.
Coral microbiome manipulation elicits metabolic and genetic restructuring to mitigate heat stress and evade mortality
Authors: Santoro Erika P. , Borges Ricardo M. , Espinoza Josh L. , Freire Marcelo , Messias Camila S. M. A. , Villela Helena D. M. , Pereira Leandro M. , Vilela Caren L. S. , Rosado João G. , Cardoso Pedro M. , Rosado Phillipe M. , Assis Juliana M. , Duarte Gustavo A. S. , Perna Gabriela , Rosado Alexandre S. , Macrae Andrew , Dupont Christopher L. , Nelson Karen E. , Sweet Michael J. , Voolstra Christian R. , Peixoto Raquel S.
Published: August 2021

Probiotics mitigate post-heat stress disorder, preventing coral mortality.
Accelerating computational discovery of porous solids through improved navigation of energy-structure-function maps
Authors: Pyzer-Knapp Edward O. , Chen Linjiang , Day Graeme M. , Cooper Andrew I.
Published: August 2021

In silico design of materials is accelerated by 100× using AI to intelligently select which simulations to run.
Single-cell analysis pinpoints distinct populations of cytotoxic CD4
+
T cells and an IL-10
+
CD109
+
T
H
2 cell population in nasal polyps
Authors: Ma Junjie , Tibbitt Christopher A. , Georén Susanna Kumlien , Christian Murray , Murrell Ben , Cardell Lars-Olaf , Bachert Claus , Coquet Jonathan M.
Published: August 2021

Transcriptional profiling pinpoints the heterogeneity of T helper cells in human nasal polyps at the clonal level.
A COVID-19 patient with recurrent acute limb ischaemia despite two successive types of therapeutic dose anticoagulation and thrombolysis
Authors: Teng Eva , Pignanelli Marcelle , Hammad Faiza , Wisa David
Published: August 2021

COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2, and its presentation ranges from mild upper respiratory illness to critical disease including acute respiratory distress syndrome and multiorgan dysfunction. While it was initially believed to primarily target the respiratory system, numerous studies have demonstrated it to cause a hypercoagulable state that predisposes to arterial and venous thrombosis. We present a case where a patient with COVID-19 developed acute lower limb ischaemia due to arterial thrombosis in the setting of full-dose enoxaparin, followed by heparin infusion protocol. The patient developed recurrent ischaemia despite thrombolysis in addition to anticoagulation, and eventually required open thrombectomy before making a full recovery.
Placental growth factor in assessment of women with suspected pre-eclampsia to reduce maternal morbidity: a stepped wedge cluster randomised control trial (PARROT Ireland)
Authors: Hayes-Ryan D , Khashan A S , Hemming K , Easter C , Devane D , Murphy D J , Hunter A , Cotter A , McAuliffe F M , Morrison J J , Breathnach F M , Dempsey E , Kenny L C , O’Donoghue K
Published: August 2021

Objective

To determine whether the addition of placental growth factor (PlGF) measurement to current clinical assessment of women with suspected pre-eclampsia before 37 weeks' gestation would reduce maternal morbidity without increasing neonatal morbidity.

Design

Stepped wedge cluster randomised control trial from 29 June 2017 to 26 April 2019.

Setting

National multisite trial in seven maternity hospitals throughout the island of Ireland

Participants

Women with a singleton pregnancy between 20
+0
to 36
+6
weeks’ gestation, with signs or symptoms suggestive of evolving pre-eclampsia. Of the 5718 women screened, 2583 were eligible and 2313 elected to participate.

Intervention

Participants were assigned randomly to either usual care or to usual care plus the addition of point-of-care PlGF testing based on the randomisation status of their maternity hospital at the time point of enrolment.

Main outcomes measures

Co-primary outcomes of composite maternal morbidity and composite neonatal morbidity. Analysis was on an individual participant level using mixed-effects Poisson regression adjusted for time effects (with robust standard errors) by intention-to-treat.

Results

Of the 4000 anticipated recruitment target, 2313 eligible participants (57%) were enrolled, of whom 2219 (96%) were included in the primary analysis. Of these, 1202 (54%) participants were assigned to the usual care group, and 1017 (46%) were assigned the intervention of additional point-of-care PlGF testing. The results demonstrate that the integration of point-of-care PlGF testing resulted in no evidence of a difference in maternal morbidity—457/1202 (38%) of women in the control group versus 330/1017 (32%) of women in the intervention group (adjusted risk ratio (RR) 1.01 (95% CI 0.76 to 1.36), P=0.92)—or in neonatal morbidity—527/1202 (43%) of neonates in the control group versus 484/1017 (47%) in the intervention group (adjusted RR 1.03 (0.89 to 1.21), P=0.67).

Conclusions

This was a pragmatic evaluation of an interventional diagnostic test, conducted nationally across multiple sites. These results do not support the incorporation of PlGF testing into routine clinical investigations for women presenting with suspected preterm pre-eclampsia, but nor do they exclude its potential benefit.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov
NCT02881073
.
Arabic COVID-19 Psychological Distress Scale: development and initial validation
Authors: Fares Zine.El.Abiddine , Al-Tammemi Ala'a B. , F. Gadelrab Hesham , Lin Chung-Ying , Aljaberi Musheer A. , Alhuwailah Amthal , Roubi Mohammed Lakder
Published: August 2021

Objective

To develop a psychometrically reliable instrument to assess psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic across Arab countries.

Design

The new instrument was developed through the review of relevant literature. We adapted multiple items from the following tools: The Fear of COVID-19 Scale, Social Phobia Inventory, Health Anxiety Inventory, Swine Influenza Anxiety Scale and the Arabic Scale of Death Anxiety to design our new assessment tool which is called COVID-19 Psychological Distress Scale (CPDS). For psychometric analyses and validation, we conducted a cross-sectional study that solicited data through a web-based survey using the newly developed CPDS.

Setting and participants

This validation study was conducted in four Arab countries, including Algeria, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Yemen. A total of 1337 participants from these countries have voluntarily responded to our survey questionnaire that included the newly developed scale.

Results

The final version of the CPDS comprised 12 items. Participants from Algeria (n=447), Kuwait (n=437), Saudi Arabia (n=160) and Yemen (n=293) have completed the 12-item CPDS. Exploratory factor analysis (used on the Algerian sample) suggested a two-factor structure of the CPDS. The two-factor structure was then supported by the confirmatory factor analysis with an independent sample. Additionally, Rasch analyses showed that all the items fit well in their embedded construct; only one item showed somewhat substantial differential item functioning across gender and country.

Conclusion

The 12-item CPDS was found to be measurement invariant across country and gender. The CPDS, with its promising psychometric properties, might help healthcare professionals to identify people with COVID-19-induced psychological distress.
Risk stratification for hydronephrosis in the evaluation of acute kidney injury: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Tummalapalli Sri Lekha , Zech John R. , Cho Hyung J. , Goetz Celine
Published: August 2021

Objective

To validate an existing clinical decision support tool to risk-stratify patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) for hydronephrosis and compare the risk stratification framework with nephrology consultant recommendations.

Setting

Cross-sectional study of hospitalised adults with AKI who had a renal ultrasound (RUS) ordered at a large, tertiary, academic medical centre.

Participants

Two hundred and eighty-one patients were included in the study cohort. Based on the risk stratification framework, 111 (40%), 76 (27%) and 94 (33%) patients were in the high-risk, medium-risk and low-risk groups for hydronephrosis, respectively.

Outcomes

Outcomes were the presence of unilateral or bilateral hydronephrosis on RUS.

Results

Thirty-five patients (12%) were found to have hydronephrosis. The high-risk group had 86% sensitivity and 67% specificity for identifying hydronephrosis. A nephrology consult was involved in 168 (60%) patients and RUS was recommended by the nephrology service in 95 (57%) cases. Among patients with a nephrology consultation, 9 (56%) of the 16 total patients with hydronephrosis were recommended to obtain an RUS.

Conclusions

We further externally validated a risk stratification framework for hydronephrosis. Clinical decision support systems may be useful to supplement clinical judgement in the evaluation of AKI.
Exploring community perceptions, attitudes and practices regarding the COVID-19 pandemic in Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Shahil Feroz Anam , Ali Naureen Akber , Feroz Ridah , Akber Noshaba , Nazim Meghani Salima
Published: August 2021

Background

The Government of Pakistan is facing difficulty to contain the surge of COVID-19 due to the country’s social, political, economical and cultural context. Experiences from the previous epidemic suggest that community perceptions, social norms and cultural practices can impede COVID-19 containment. To understand social responses towards COVID-19, the study aims to explore the understanding of COVID-19 and the acceptance of control measures among community members.

Methods

We conducted an exploratory qualitative study using a purposive sampling approach, at two communities of Karachi, Pakistan. In-depth interviews were conducted with community members including, young, middle-aged and older adults of both genders. Study data were analysed manually using the conventional content analysis technique.

Results

A total of 27 in-depth virtual interviews were conducted, between May and June 2020. Six overarching themes were identified: (1) community knowledge and perceptions around COVID-19; (2) trusted and preferred sources of health information; (3) initial thoughts and feeling towards COVID-19 pandemic; (4) community practices to prevent exposure from COVID-19; (5) perceived risks associated with poor adherence to infection control practices; and (6) future preparedness of community to avoid the second wave of the outbreak. Generally, community members had good knowledge about COVID-19, and positive behaviour and attitude towards using standard precautions. The knowledge is mainly acquired through electronic, print and social media platforms, which have pros and cons. However, some community members including younger individuals had poor adherence to safety measures. This may necessitate concentrated efforts to raise awareness through community mobilisation and sensitisation activities.

Conclusion

This study provides an initial evidence base of communities’ perceptions, and attitudes towards COVID-19 in an early stage of pandemic. The study emphasises that sufficient knowledge and awareness about COVID-19, adequate training and drills, and adherence to safety measures, are necessary to better prepare for the second wave of COVID-19.
Comparative analysis of developmental profile between normal and severe acute malnourished under-five children in Pakistan: a multicentre cross-sectional study
Authors: Saleem Javeria , Zakar Rubeena , Mushtaq Faisal , Bukhari Gul Mehar Javaid , Fischer Florian
Published: August 2021

Objectives

This study aims to compare the developmental profile of severe acute malnourished (SAM) and normal under-five children and to find sociodemographic determinants accountable for their developmental disabilities.

Setting

We conducted a multi-centre cross-sectional study in three basic health units and one rural health centre in Pakistan.

Participants

200 children (SAM and healthy) aged 6–59 months.

Primary and secondary measures

We screened for nutritional status and clinical complications. Children underwent for developmental assessment by Denver Development Screening Tool II. A pretested structured questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics and nutrition was used for collecting data about determinants of developmental delay.

Results

We observed statistically significant differences in anthropometric measurements among SAM compared with normal nourished in weight, height, mid-upper arm circumference and weight-for-height z-scores. SAM serves as a significant risk factors (p<0.001) for delayed personal or social development (69% vs 11%; OR (95% CI)=18.01 (8.45 to 38.37)), delayed fine motor development (39% vs 8%; OR (95% CI)=7.35 (3.22 to 16.81)), delayed language development (32% vs 8%; OR (95% CI)=5.41 (2.35 to 12.48)), delayed gross motor development (34% vs 10%; OR (95% CI)=4.64 (2.14 to 10.05)) and delayed global development (66% vs 20%; OR (95% CI)=7.77 (4.09 to 14.74)). Applying logistic regression, personal or social development (p<0.001) and language development (p<0.05), under-five siblings was a risk factor, while among gross motor development, mother’s educational status (p<0.05) was a significant risk factor for developmental delay.

Conclusions

Our analysis indicates that children with malnutrition have a high frequency of developmental delays. Missing maternal education and a higher number of under-five siblings are also potential risk factors for developmental delay.
Protocol for a mixed-method cohort study investigating the prevalence and impact of obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) in chronic pain rehabilitation
Authors: Sloley Chad , Shipton Edward A , Bell Caroline , Williman Jonathan
Published: August 2021

Introduction

While there is considerable and growing research in the individual fields of obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) and chronic pain, focused research into their potential association remains limited. By exploring this potential association, better theoretical understanding of and better therapeutic approaches to chronic pain management could be developed. The study’s aim is to explore the prevalence and impact of obsessions–compulsions on the experience and rehabilitation of chronic pain among individuals attending different branches of a New Zealand pain service.

Methods and analysis

This is a cohort study using well-validated questionnaires and semistructured interviews. Participants will be recruited through community pain services from a private rehabilitation-focused company with branches across New Zealand. Participants will complete an OCD screening measure (Obsessive–Compulsive Inventory-Revised (OCI-R)). These results will be used to compare results from the specialist pain services benchmarking electronic Persistent Pain Outcomes Collaboration measure sets, at both participant intake and completion of each Pain Service Programme. Prevalence rates of OCD caseness from the OCI-R will be estimated with 95% CI. Generalised linear regression models will be used to explore differences in pain baseline and outcome factors between those with high and low obsessive–compulsive symptoms. Semistructured interviews, assessed through interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), will be used to provide information on lived experiences of individuals with comorbid chronic pain and OCD. This will be supported through the administration of an Obsessive Beliefs Questionnaire 44.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been obtained from the Health and Disability Ethics Committee (HDEC20/CEN/82). Study results will be disseminated at professional conferences and in peer-reviewed journals. A lay summary of findings will be provided to requesting participants or through attendance at a local hui (gathering).

Trial registration number

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12621000758808).
Hide and seek: molecular barcoding clarifies the distribution of two cryptic duckweed species across Alberta
Authors: Senevirathna Kanishka M. , Crisfield Varina E. , Burg Theresa M. , Laird Robert A.
Published: August 2021

Regional and global biodiversity may be underestimated due to the presence of cryptic species: species that are morphologically similar, but genetically distinct. Here, we focus on two cryptic duckweed species, Lemna minor L. and Lemna turionifera Landolt, which have overlapping geographic ranges and are easily mistaken for one another. We developed species-specific primers based on DNA barcoding sequences to facilitate the rapid identification of these two monomorphic duckweeds, allowing us to investigate their presence and distribution in Alberta, Canada. While current reports indicate the presence of L. turionifera (and the morphologically distinct Lemna trisulca L.) in Alberta, our data indicate that L. minor is also present, predominantly in the southern part of the province. Thus, this paper (i) contributes to the accuracy and completeness of a regional flora, and (ii) provides useful and flexible tools for the rapid molecular identification of cryptic Lemna species, which are of wide interest in diverse fields such as biotechnology, toxicology, bioremediation, and ecology.
Putting human behavior predictability in context
Authors: Zhang Wanyi , Shen Qiang , Teso Stefano , Lepri Bruno , Passerini Andrea , Bison Ivano , Giunchiglia Fausto
Published: August 2021

Various studies have investigated the predictability of different aspects of human behavior such as mobility patterns, social interactions, and shopping and online behaviors. However, the existing researches have been often limited to a single or to the combination of few behavioral dimensions, and they have adopted the perspective of an outside observer who is unaware of the motivations behind the specific behaviors or activities of a given individual. The key assumption of this work is that human behavior is deliberated based on an individual’s own perception of the situation that s/he is in, and that therefore it should also be studied under the same perspective. Taking inspiration from works in ubiquitous and context-aware computing, we investigate the role played by four contextual dimensions (or modalities), namely time, location, activity being carried out, and social ties, on the predictability of individuals’ behaviors, using a month of collected mobile phone sensor readings and self-reported annotations about these contextual modalities from more than two hundred study participants. Our analysis shows that any target modality (e.g. location) becomes substantially more predictable when information about the other modalities (time, activity, social ties) is made available. Multi-modality turns out to be in some sense fundamental, as some values (e.g. specific activities like “shopping”) are nearly impossible to guess correctly unless the other modalities are known. Subjectivity also has a substantial impact on predictability. A location recognition experiment suggests that subjective location annotations convey more information about activity and social ties than objective information derived from GPS measurements. We conclude the paper by analyzing how the identified contextual modalities allow to compute the diversity of personal behavior, where we show that individuals are more easily identified by rarer, rather than frequent, context annotations. These results offer support in favor of developing innovative computational models of human behaviors enriched by a characterization of the context of a given behavior.
The Generalization of the Periodic Orbit Dividing Surface in Hamiltonian Systems with Three or More Degrees of Freedom – I
Authors: Katsanikas Matthaios , Wiggins Stephen
Published: August 2021

We present a method that generalizes the periodic orbit dividing surface construction for Hamiltonian systems with three or more degrees of freedom. We construct a torus using as a basis a periodic orbit and we extend this to a ([Formula: see text])-dimensional object in the ([Formula: see text])-dimensional energy surface. We present our methods using benchmark examples for two and three degrees of freedom Hamiltonian systems to illustrate the corresponding algorithm for this construction. Towards this end, we use the normal form quadratic Hamiltonian system with two and three degrees of freedom. We found that the periodic orbit dividing surface can provide us the same dynamical information as the dividing surface constructed using normally hyperbolic invariant manifolds. This is significant because, in general, computations of normally hyperbolic invariant manifolds are very difficult in Hamiltonian systems with three or more degrees of freedom. However, our method avoids this computation and the only information that we need is the location of one periodic orbit.
Global Stability and Hopf Bifurcation for a Stage Structured Model with Competition for Food
Authors: Lv Yunfei , Pei Yongzhen , Yuan Rong
Published: August 2021

Considering the mature condition of any individual to have eaten a specific amount of food during the entire period that it can spend at its immature stage, we propose a size-structured model by a first-order quasi-linear partial differential equation. The model can be firstly reduced to a single state-dependent delay differential equation and then to a constant delay differential equation. The state-dependent delay represents intra-specific competition among individuals for limited food resources. A complete analysis of the global dynamics on the positivity and boundedness of solutions, global stability for each equilibrium and Hopf bifurcation is carried out. Our results imply that the delay leads to instability that is shown by a simple example of a certain structured population model.
Stability and Hopf Bifurcation Analysis of a Reduced Gierer–Meinhardt Model
Authors: Asheghi Rasoul
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we consider a reduction of the Gierer–Meinhardt Activator–Inhibitor model. In the absence of diffusion, we determine the global dynamics of the homogeneous system. Then, we study the effect of the diffusion constants on the stability of a homogeneous steady state. By choosing a proper bifurcation parameter, we prove that, under some suitable conditions on the parameters, a generalized Hopf bifurcation occurs in the inhomogeneos model. We compute the normal form of this bifurcation up to the fifth order. Furthermore, the direction of the Hopf bifurcation is obtained by the normal form theory. Finally, we provide some numerical simulations to justify our theoretical results.
Leader Selection and Dynamics Analysis under Leader-Based Collective Bargaining for Buyers’ Alliance
Authors: Ma Xiaogang , Bao Chunyu , Yu Niu , Xie Jing
Published: August 2021

This paper focuses on the leader selection from the leader-based collective bargaining system, where buyers form an alliance and designate one of them as the leader to bargain with the supplier for a lower wholesale price of their common component. We construct the dynamic bargaining system consisting of two heterogeneous buyers and one supplier to analyze the influence of the enterprise nature and bargaining power on the leader selection. It was proved that the buyer with stronger bargaining power should be the leader. However, we find that, when the buyers are heterogeneous, the result may be different. In order to explore which factor plays a more important role in the leader selection, we design two rounds of bargaining for comparison. The interesting results imply that whether the bargaining power will reverse the leader selection in the first round depends on its growth rate. The nonlinear dynamics theory is also introduced to analyze the complex behaviors in the dynamic bargaining system. We analyze the influence of adjustment speed on the dynamic bargaining system and obtain the conditions required to maintain system stability. Considering the significance of system stability, the delayed feedback control mechanism is adopted to drive chaos back to stability.
Degenerate Chenciner Bifurcation Revisited
Authors: Tigan G. , Brandibur O. , Kokovics E. A. , Vesa L. F.
Published: August 2021

Generic results for degenerate Chenciner (generalized Neimark–Sacker) bifurcation are obtained in the present work. The bifurcation arises from two-dimensional discrete-time systems with two independent parameters. We define in this work a new transformation of parameters, which enables the study of the bifurcation when degeneracy occurs. By the four bifurcation diagrams we obtained, new behaviors hidden by the degeneracy are brought to light.
A Systematic Mapping Study: How Can UX Design Be Adapted to Improve the Design of Meaningful Gamified Solutions?
Authors: Azouz Omar , Karioh Nouamane , Lefdaoui Youssef
Published: August 2021

A meaningful gamified solution design is not limited to the use of points and rewards, but rather focuses on the intrinsic motivations for a more engaging user experience. Furthermore, the implementation of this concept is subject to difficulties given the lack of unified, effective, and efficient tools that are integrated into a process that covers the life cycle of a product or a service. Indeed, the existing gamification frameworks are limited to guidelines and recommendations that set up game elements for specific needs and contexts. However, the methods and the best practices that can lead to a meaningful gamified solution still cannot be concluded. Moreover, the user experience is currently a fundamental concept that has changed the focus on the processes of a generation of products and services; putting the user at the center of the design process. The main objective of this paper is to study the relevance of adapting or adopting UX design elements to improve the design of gamified products. To this end, a systematic mapping of the literature was carried out with a selection of 77 articles published between 2010 and March 2021. The results obtained enabled the identification of the adaptation or adoption proposals related to the following three levels: (1) UX design process and framework, (2) UX design process phases, in particular the phase of understanding the user need and usability testing, and (3) user’s research tools such as the persona, the journey map, and the questionnaire. The adaptation of these design elements was not systematic and depended on the context of the study.
Cause and Effect Relationships of Internal and External Technological Learning Mechanisms in the Iranian Renewable Energy Firms
Authors: Fartash Kiarash , Ghorbani Amir
Published: August 2021

In developing countries, firms usually have limited capital, infrastructure, and institutions for technological learning. Hence, knowledge of firms about external and internal learning mechanisms as well as using other firm’s experiences lead to reduced cost and time of technological learning. Present paper contributes to renewable energy firm’s knowledge by analyzing cause and effect relationships of internal and external technological learning mechanisms. For this purpose, internal and external technological learning mechanisms were extracted by literature review. Then, cause and effect relationships of learning mechanisms in Iranian renewable energy firms were investigated by the DEMATEL method. The results indicate that firms should use a combination of internal and external learning mechanisms to enhance their technological capability. Moreover, intramural research and development, trial and error, reverse engineering of competitor’s products, imitation of competitors, and licensing agreement have been the most frequent technological learning mechanisms used by Iranian renewable energy firms. These are the issues that need to be addressed by renewable energy firms and policymakers in developing countries.
Highly magmatic break-up LIP centres: revisiting the East Greenland volcanic rifted margin
Authors: Klausen Martin B.
Published: August 2021

The decompressional release of magma at continental triple-rift break-up, large igneous province (LIP) centres, above mantle plume stems, results in highly magmatic settings. As a particularly well-exposed example, it is proposed that the East Greenland coastal dyke swarm preserves a structural record of how dyke dilations v. tectonic extension increased upon approaching its Kangerlussuaq triple rift centre. Such more magmatic break-up is reflected by how abruptly its volcanic rifted margin transitions into 100% dykes, and, in this case, up to 100 km further inland than its geophysically determined continent–ocean boundary. Correspondingly high magma flux through an igneous Kap Edward Holm centre sustained the lateral injection of up to 150 km-long dykes, evidenced by increased cut-off dyke thicknesses, below which there is an anomalously low abundance of thinner dykes, that conform to the cube root of their thermal arrest distance. Only the thickest and, thereby, longest dyke injections linked up with a more southerly located igneous Imilik centre of an en echelon offset dyke swarm, the complex transition into which is also addressed. This highly magmatic central plumbing system is further compared to similar volcanic zones across Iceland and other post-Paleozoic break-up LIPs in order to contextualize its importance.
“Unless One Does the Research, It May Seem as Just a Useless Battery-consuming App” – Field Notes on COVID-19 Contact Tracing Applications
Authors: Stojkovski Borce , Abu-Salma Ruba , Triquet Karen , Lenzini Gabriele
Published: August 2021

Globally, countries have been developing contact tracing applications to control the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) disease. In this work, we present the findings of eight focus groups we conducted with participants living in France and Germany, to explore why they decided to adopt, or not adopt, a contact tracing application as well as understand how they perceived the benefits, drawbacks, and threat model of a contact tracing application.
Operando Measurements of Electrolyte Li-ion Concentration during fast charging with FTIR/ATR
Authors: Meyer Lydia , Curran David , Brow Ryan , Santhanagopalan Shriram , Porter Jason
Published: August 2021

The ability to charge a Li-ion battery at high charging rates is critical for electric vehicle adoption; however, further study of ion transport is required to develop electrolytes suitable for fast charge. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) used with attenuated total reflection (ATR) enables operando measurements of liquid electrolytes. This research focused on solvation shifting of solvent infrared absorption bands in the presence of lithium ions. Lithium-shifted infrared absorption bands and non-shifted bands of ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC) and ethylene carbonate (EC) were compared to infer ion concentration changes during cycling. Lithium concentrations were calibrated using EC/EMC/LiPF6 electrolytes with known lithium concentrations. A Li-ion half-cell with a graphite anode and EC/EMC/LiPF6 electrolyte was observed with FTIR/ATR. The results showed that the magnitude of lithium concentration changes increased with increasing C-rate. During a galvanostatic intermittent titration technique (GITT) test, changes in lithium concentration could be observed. During intercalation, a lithium depletion occurred when a negative current was applied, and a lithium surplus occurred during deintercalation when a positive current was applied. The capability of observing lithium concentration has significant implications for the utility of operando studies and the potential to link lithium movement to battery performance.
In Situ Measurement of Temperature Distributions in a Li-ion Cell during Internal Short Circuit and Thermal Runaway
Authors: Huang Shan , Du Zhijia , Zhou Qian , Snyder Kent , Liu Siyi , Zhang Guangsheng
Published: August 2021

Here we report in situ measurement of temperature distributions in a 2.5-Ah pouch format Li-ion cell during internal short circuit (ISC) and thermal runaway. The ISC and thermal runaway were triggered by nail penetration. The local temperatures were measured by embedded K type micro thermocouples in the middle layer of the experimental Li-ion cell. Highly non-uniform temperature distributions were observed during ISC and thermal runaway as compared with those during constant current discharging and external short circuit. The in situ measurement also captured details of how thermal runaway started from the ISC location and spread to the entire cell in a few seconds. Moreover, the comparison between ISC without thermal runaway and ISC with thermal runaway suggests that internal short circuit resistance plays a critical role in the risk of thermal runaway.
Study on a Heuristic Wheelset Structure without Rail Corrugation on Sharply Curved Tracks
Authors: Mei G. M. , Chen G. X. , Yan S. , Chen R. X.
Published: August 2021

Rail corrugation on low rails of sharp railway curves is still a difficult problem to solve worldwide. Nearly all low rails of the sharp railway curves incur rail corrugation. In the present study, an active method to remedy rail corrugation was studied. From the viewpoint of the frictional self‐excited oscillation of a wheelset‐track system causing rail corrugation, the effect of wheelset structures on rail corrugation was studied. Three frictional self‐excited oscillation models of wheelset‐track systems with different wheelset structures were established, which include a heuristic wheelset structure and two being used in the railway industry. The incidence trends of the self‐excited oscillations of these three wheelset‐track systems were studied. It was found that the wheelset structure has an important effect on rail corrugation, and that the heuristic wheelset structure can restrain or get rid of rail corrugation. With the parameter sensitivity analysis, it was found that when the friction coefficient between the wheel and rail, rail gauge, rail cant, and sleeper span changes to some extent, the heuristic wheelset structure is robust enough to prevent rail corrugation. The proposed heuristic wheelset structure can be used as a potential solution to rail corrugation on sharply curved tracks.
LAG3 and PD1 Regulate CD8+ T Cell in Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma Patients
Authors: Liu Ying , Guo Xinhong , Zhan Lingbo , Wang Lei , Wang Xinyou , Jiang Ming
Published: August 2021

Background. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous lymphoid malignancy. The unsatisfactory outcome for refractory patients has prompted efforts to explore new therapeutic approaches for DLBCL. However, the mechanisms involved in treatment associated with immune checkpoints remain unclear. This study is aimed at investigating the potential roles of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) and lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG3) in CD8+ T cells for treatment in DLBCL. Methods. Utilizing flow cytometry, we examined the content of T cells, the levels of cytokines, and the expression of PD1 and LAG3 in patients with DLBCL as well as in healthy controls. Levels of cytokines in CD8+ T cells from DLBCL patients before and after treatment were compared by blocking of PD1 and LAG3 in magnetic bead-sorted CD8+ T cells. Results. We found that the proportion of CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells was increased in DLBCL patients after treatment. The levels of cytokines trended toward those of healthy controls in treatment. PD1 (+), LAG3 (+), or PD1 (+) LAG3 (+) were all expressed in lower amounts in CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells after treatment than in untreated DLBCL patients. In addition, blockade of PD1 and LAG3 in sorted CD8+ T cells markedly inhibited cytokine production in response to treatment. Conclusion. PD1 and LAG3 in CD8+ T cells may be important targets of therapy and play therapeutic role in patients with DLBCL.