bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marine and coastal accounts for Small Island Developing States: A case study and application in Grenada
Authors: Mengo Elena , Grilli Gaetano , Luisetti Tiziana , Conejo Watt Heather , Harper Jones Cherry , Posen Paulette
Published: November 2022

In recent decades, a concerted effort has been made to define methodologies and frameworks to account for the contribution of the natural environment to national wealth and its role in fulfilling societal and economic needs. The linkages between natural capital and human well-being are even stronger in low-income and vulnerable countries, such as Small Island Developing States (SIDS). This is particularly true for coastal and marine ecosystems and for SIDS, considering that a large portion of their population live along the coast. Therefore, SIDS would greatly benefit from systematically assessing and recording the condition and services provided by marine and coastal habitats in ecosystem accounts. Applications of accounting frameworks to marine and coastal habitats, however, are still under development. Through a case study in the Caribbean Island of Grenada, we explore SIDS readiness to develop marine and coastal natural capital accounts, in particular framed within the guidelines of the United Nations System of Environmental-Economic Accounting Ecosystem Accounting (SEEA-EA). We find that, while data to compile accounts of ecosystems extent exist and may be suitable for accounting, data related to ecosystem condition are very limited. Data gaps significantly constrained the potential approaches to estimate the ecosystem services supply provided by the coastal and marine environment in our natural capital accounts for Grenada. Our case study investigation brings us to suggest initial steps for the development of ecosystem accounts in SIDS, including potential methodologies and approaches and discuss how developing a set of coherent accounts can play a key role in incorporating nature into decision-making.
Scorpiops lourencoi sp. nov., the revalidation of Scorpiops atomatus Qi, Zhu & Lourenço, 2005, and the redescription of Scorpiops tibetanus Hirst, 1911 (Scorpiones, Scorpiopidae) from China
Authors: Lv Heyu , Di Zhiyong
Published: November 2022

Scorpiops lourencoisp. nov. is described from Shigatse, Xizang. Scorpiops atomatus Qi, Zhu & Lourenço, 2005 and Scorpiops pococki Qi, Zhu & Lourenço, 2005 were synonymized by Kovařík et al. (2020) as two junior synonyms of Scorpiops tibetanus Hirst, 1911 but based on several field surveys in Xizang in recent years, and a careful survey of the literature, S. atomatus is reaffirmed as a valid species and S. tibetanus is redescribed, both based on newly collected specimens. This brings the total number of species of Scorpiops recorded in China to 32.
Diversity underfoot of agromyzids (Agromyzidae, Diptera) mining thalli of liverworts and hornworts
Authors: Kato Makoto , Yamamori Luna , Imada Yume
Published: November 2022

Agromyzidae is a dipteran family that has diversified as internal plant feeders. Although most agromyzid species feed on herbaceous angiosperms, only a limited number of species has been recorded as miners of bryophytes. Extensive searches and rearing of bryophytivores in the Japanese Archipelago were made, resulting in that thallus-mining agromyzids are overwhelmingly widespread and diverse on thalloid liverworts and hornworts. By examining the morphology of adult flies, it was revealed that the agromyzid fauna comprise 39 species, of which 37 species are newly described. All the species are assigned to the genusPhytoliriomyzaHendel based on some shared morphological character states as follows: costa reaching M1; orbital setulae minute and erect (rarely proclinate); male epandrium with combs of fused tubercle-like setae and/or hypertrophied arms bearing tubercle-like setae; male distiphallus comprising a pair of stout, extended tubules; female cercus with two stout, apical, trichoid sensilla. Of the 39 agromyzid species in Japan, 36 species are associated with liverworts: 5 spp. onMarchantia(Marchantiaceae), 2 spp. onDumortiera(Dumortieraceae), 3 spp. onPlagiochasma, 1 sp. onAsterella, 6 spp. onReboulia(Aytoniaceae), 1 sp. onWiesnerella(Wiesnerellaceae), 15 spp. onConocephalum(Conocephalaceae), and 3 spp. onRiccia(Ricciaceae). Three species are associated with hornworts: 1 sp. onFolioceros(Anthocerotaceae), 1 sp. onMegaceros(Dendrocerotaceae), and 1 sp. onNotothylas,Phaeoceros(Notothyladaceae), andAnthoceros(Anthocerotaceae). The results suggest that 37 of the 39 species are host-specific at least to plant genus level, and that the inter-specific differences in male genitalia and color patterns of scutum, antenna, and maxillary palpus have contributed to reproductive isolation on the bryophytes that the flies share.
Le discours populiste comme brouillage des enjeux politiques
Authors: Charaudeau Patrick
Published: November 2022

Il ne se passe pas un jour sans que la presse écrite, les bulletins d’information des radios et des journaux télévisés ne lancent à la cantonade le mot de populisme. Il ne se passe pas non plus un jour sans qu’acteurs politiques, commentateurs, chroniqueurs ne se réfèrent au populisme comme cause ou symptôme des crises de notre époque. Bien des écrits d’historiens, de sociologues et de politistes en ont tenté une explication. Il restait à l’étudier du point de vue des discours qui circulent, à son propos, dans l’espace public. Cet article met en lumière la façon dont le populisme, en tant que discours, produit un brouillage des enjeux politiques ; du fait, d’une part, des extrêmes de droite et de gauche, d’autre part, d’une demande sociale qui est en rupture avec les partis traditionnels.
Generalized Stević-Sharma type operators from derivative Hardy spaces into Zygmund-type spaces
Authors: Guo Zhitao , Mu Jianyong
Published: November 2022

Let $ u, v $ be two analytic functions on the open unit disk $ {\mathbb D} $ in the complex plane, $ \varphi $ an analytic self-map of $ {\mathbb D} $, and $ m, n $ nonnegative integers such that $ m < n $. In this paper, we consider the generalized Stević-Sharma type operator $ T_{u, v, \varphi}^{m, n}f(z) = u(z)f^{(m)}(\varphi(z))+v(z)f^{(n)}(\varphi(z)) $ acting from the derivative Hardy spaces into Zygmund-type spaces, and investigate its boundedness, essential norm and compactness.
An optimized fractional grey model based on weighted least squares and its application
Authors: Liu Caixia , Xie Wanli
Published: November 2022

The fractional grey model is an effective tool for modeling small samples of data. Due to its essential characteristics of mathematical modeling, it has attracted considerable interest from scholars. A number of compelling methods have been proposed by many scholars in order to improve the accuracy and extend the scope of the application of the model. Examples include initial value optimization, order optimization, etc. The weighted least squares approach is used in this paper in order to enhance the model's accuracy. The first step in this study is to develop a novel fractional prediction model based on weighted least squares operators. Thereafter, the accumulative order of the proposed model is determined, and the stability of the optimization algorithm is assessed. Lastly, three actual cases are presented to verify the validity of the model, and the error variance of the model is further explored. Based on the results, the proposed model is more accurate than the comparison models, and it can be applied to real-world situations.
Robotic arm trajectory optimization based on multiverse algorithm
Authors: Liu Junjie , Wang Hui , Li Xue , Chen Kai , Li Chaoyu
Published: November 2022

For inefficient trajectory planning of six-degree-of-freedom industrial manipulators, a trajectory planning algorithm based on an improved multiverse algorithm (IMVO) for time, energy, and impact optimization are proposed. The multi-universe algorithm has better robustness and convergence accuracy in solving single-objective constrained optimization problems than other algorithms. In contrast, it has the disadvantage of slow convergence and quickly falls into local optimum. This paper proposes a method to improve the wormhole probability curve, adaptive parameter adjustment, and population mutation fusion to improve the convergence speed and global search capability. In this paper, we modify MVO for multi-objective optimization to derive the Pareto solution set. We then construct the objective function by a weighted approach and optimize it using IMVO. The results show that the algorithm improves the timeliness of the six-degree-of-freedom manipulator trajectory operation within a specific constraint and improves the optimal time, energy consumption, and impact problems in the manipulator trajectory planning.
Designing programs to prepare future faculty for academic careers: Insights from a longitudinal case study of a multidisciplinary cohort-based program model for doctoral students
Authors: Lukes Laura A. , Ibrahim Lamis M. , Bray Laurence
Published: November 2022

Many universities offer some version of centrally offered professional development opportunities for graduate students seeking academic careers. Less is known about what impact these programs have on student career preparation and success and which design elements are most beneficial to each learner (Diggs et al., 2017; Schram et al., 2017). This article reports on a mixed methods decadal review (2011–2021) of one large, research-intensive institution’s multidisciplinary cohort-based year-long program, Preparing for Academic Careers, for graduate students near the end of their doctoral or master’s of fine arts (MFA) degree. Results from a systematic employment status search using publicly available records (Google and LinkedIn) indicate that a higher percentage of participants are employed in academic positions than national trends. Results from the analyses of closed and open-ended questions from an alumni survey suggest a range of perceived benefits: an increased sense of belonging in the academy, comfort talking to others about their work, confidence as an instructor, and interest in cross-disciplinary work. These findings will inform others seeking to design and implement academic career preparation programs that aim to provide student-level support in an inclusive and multidisciplinary environment.
Does Cross-Functional Pedagogy of Teaching a Course Help in Management Education?
Authors: Nagpal Gaurav , Jasti Naga Vamsi Krishna , Kumar Alok , Gupta Sachin
Published: November 2022

This research study aims to examine the effectiveness of delivering a supply chain management course to students from a cross-functional perspective. The study analyses the positive teaching-learning outcomes that came out with the teaching of this course to the working professionals through online mode at an institution from a cross-functional perspective. The research question is whether teaching the supply chain management course from a cross-functional perspective resulted in better student performance in terms of Bloom's taxonomy. This study finds that the positive effect of this experiment is statistically significant on the treatment set. The study also proposes a few examples of cross-functional classroom teaching and linkages between different courses that need to be brought to the attention of the students. The study also sheds light on different tools of cross-functional teaching and how the management faculty can develop the art of delivering lectures from a cross-functional perspective, and the caution that they need to exercise while adopting this pedagogy style.
Corrosion Resistance Analysis of Al-Cu, Al-Zn and Al-Cu-Zn Alloys
Authors: Suprapto Wahyono , Zuliantoni Zuliantoni , Setyarini Putu Hadi , Gapsari Femiana , Sudjito Sudjito , Irawan Yudy Surya
Published: November 2022

Anticipating an alloy's corrosion resistance is essential to avoid product failure and reduce costs. Research and analyze the corrosion resistance of Al-Cu, Al-Zn and Al-Cu-Zn alloys based on the analytical balance of the elements according to weight, thermodynamic, metallurgical rules on metal alloys, kinetic and other properties. The purpose of this study is to determine the corrosion resistance of Al-5-wt% Cu, Al-5-wt% Zn and Al-5-wt% Cu-5-wt% Zn alloys based on the analytical calculation. Based on the analytical calculation results, the Al-Zn-Cu alloy has the best corrosion resistance with a corrosion rate of 0.4375 mmpy. Next is the Al-Cu alloy with a corrosion rate of 0.4634 mmpy. While Al-Zn alloy has the lowest strength with a corrosion rate of 0.4828 mmpy. Based on standard EMF potential values for these three alloys. Al-Zn alloys are most active with an value of-1.61 V, followed by Al-Zn-Cu alloys with an value of -
1.60 V, and the noblest Al-Cu alloy has the most positive value of-1.56 V. Faraday's law to get corrosion rates of the anode and cathode materials. In the third reaction, the exothermic alloy has a positive value of so the exothermic reaction occurs.
Mechanical Properties and Microstructure Evolution of Double-Sided Friction Stir Welding AA6061-T6
Authors: Hendrato Hendrato , Jamasri Jamasri , Triyono Triyono , Puspitasari Poppy
Published: November 2022

The Friction Stir Welding process has become very popular because it produces good welds with low defects and distortion. However, FSW in thick aluminium alloy plate joints such as those found in applications in the transportation industry such as automotive, rail, shipbuilding, and aircraft is more complex and challenging. Double-sided FSW has challenges to be developed and applied in the transportation industry. This study investigates the effect of different tool rotational speeds on the double-sided FSW of Aluminium Alloy 6061-T6 thick plate. The ratios of the tool speed differences studied were 1:1, 1:1.3, and 1:1.6. Tensile strength, hardness, microstructure evolution, and fracture morphology were studied in this study. The investigation results concluded that an efficient and reliable double-sided FSW joint was achieved at joints with a tool rotational speed difference ratio of 1:1.
Stir Casting and Successive Rolling of Aluminium Alloy 2218 MMCs Reinforced by High-Entropy Alloy Particles
Authors: Vijayakumar M. , Pradeep Rai M. , Muthukrishnan M. , Gnanakumar N.
Published: November 2022

Al0.5CoCrFeNi high-entropy alloy (HEAp) reinforced AA2218 metal matrix composites (MMCs) by stir casting and successive rolling. Mechanical characteristics of the AA2218 HEAp MMCs are analysed. The stir-casted AA2218 HEAp MMCs' ultimate tensile strength rose by 74.3 percent when HEAp was added at a weight percentage of 4 wt percent. When the MMCs were made by rolling, they had greater mechanical qualities than those made by RTR. Higher rolling deformation and lower HEAp mass fraction led to greater mechanical characteristics discrepancies between the AA2218 HEAp MMCs formed by CR and RTR. In the AA2218 HEAp MMCs after RTR, there were voids that were not present in the CR MMCs. Micro holes and the mechanical properties of metal matrix composites were also discussed in detail.
Effect of Natural Filler on Natural Fibre Hybrid Composite
Authors: Reddy P. Sai Vardhan , Sravanthi K. , Jani S.P.
Published: November 2022

The natural filler material is reinforced along with natural fibers in the composite to improve the quality and property of the component materials based on the requirements and its applications. In this paper, the hybrid composite was developed with Hemp/ Basalt fiber. Various wt% (15%,20%,25%) of Hemp fiber and filler materials were used as reinforcement. The Hemp fiber was surface treated with 5% of KMnO4. The developed hybrid natural fiber composites were performed with various mechanical properties studies like tensile, bending, impact, and Brinell hardness all these tests were performed as per ASTM standards. From the mechanical property study, 25 wt% Hemp fiber hybrid composite hold good mechanical properties compared to all other wt% developed hybrid composite.
Influence of Cryogenic Behaviour on Copper Electrode for Non-Conventional EDM
Authors: Manikandan V. , Varuvel Antony Y. , Mohemedsharifkhan P. , Yuvannarasimman P. , Senthilnathan K.
Published: November 2022

In the last few decades, non-traditional machining has increased the efficiency of the machining process. One of the most prevalent non-traditional methods of milling is through the use of an EDM process. Traditional machining methods can't easily machine materials with a complicated profile or hardness that EDM can handle. The industrial sector makes extensive use of EDM. Cryogenically treated copper electrodes and regular copper electrodes were used to conduct an experiment on an EN24 material using varied input parameters, such as electrode rotation, gap voltage, and discharge current. Electric discharge machining was used in a study. The Taguchi method is used to design experiments. Three input parameters were employed in an orthogonal L16 array to find an optimal value for each of the three components. OC (overcut), TWR (Tool wear rate), and Ra (surface roughness) are the three output variables. The S/N ratio can be used to determine the best values and relative relevance of each of these factors using a statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA) table. Additionally, the overcut, tool wear rate, and surface roughness of traditional and non-traditional EDM are examined. For the deep cryogenic and non-traditional machining method, conventional and non-traditional electric discharge machining methods were found to have optimal or dominant factors for the TWR and Ra.
Void Content Measurement of the 3D Printed PEEK Materials by X-Ray Micro Computed Tomography
Authors: Emolaga Carlo S. , De Yro Persia Ada N. , Aranez Shaun Angelo C. , Reyes Jocelyn P. , Visaya Brigida A. , Basilia Blessie A. , Monsada Araceli M. , Advincula Rigoberto C.
Published: November 2022

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry as various AM technologies continue to mature and more AM-compatible materials are being developed. Polyether ether ketone (PEEK) is one of the promising materials at the forefront of this technological revolution as efforts to enhance its application as a 3D-printing material are continuously being pursued. In this study, the effect of printing parameters on the void content of 3D-printed PEEK was examined using a non-destructive method, X-ray micro computed tomography (X-ray micro-CT). Of the fused filament fabrication (FFF) parameters considered, higher nozzle temperature and printing speed were seen to promote an increase in void content while higher build plate temperature reduces it. Void content has a direct effect on the mechanical and other properties of the manufactured material and therefore provides a link between the printing parameters and the expected mechanical performance of these materials. This study also highlights the importance of choosing the right printing parameters to ensure the quality of the manufactured PEEK.
Impact of Single and Duplex Cryogenic Jets on Mechanical and Physical Characteristics in Turning of Titanium Superalloys
Authors: Shanmuga Vadive A. , Selvakumar P. , Mathan P. , Ramkumar P.
Published: November 2022

This analyses evaluates the cutting force , surface roughness, chip morphology, chip–tool interface temperature, tool life, and Single use of a coated carbide tool and double liquid nitrogen jets for friendly superalloy that is extremely difficult to cut being turned (Ti-6Al4V). The rake face was the only focus of the single jet, while the rake and flank surfaces were concurrently hit by the duplex jets. Liquid nitrogen jets provided the highest machining quality, reducing cutting force , temp, hardness, and, apparently, tool life. When equated to dry and single jet assist, the double liquid nitrogen jets increased life of the tool by 60% and 30%. In spite of this, chip manufacture has not changed. Using duplex liquid nitrogen jets to extend tool life, reduce tool costs, lower temperatures, improve surface quality, and most importantly, promote machinability of Ti-6Al-4V superalloy has been accepted as a sustainably booster.
Optimization of the Electrospraying Parameters for Formulation of Biopolymeric Microcapsules
Authors: Anani Joshua , Noby Hussien , Zkria Abdelrahman , Yoshitake Tsuyoshi , El Kady Marwa F.
Published: November 2022

There has been a surge in applying alginate microcapsules in diverse fields due to the numerous advantages of their non-toxicity, simple synthesis, and mechanical and chemical stability. Electrospraying is a simple and excellent technique for producing small microcapsules. This study aimed to analyse the trends in the operational parameters of the electrospraying technique, observed extreme conditions of the electrospraying, and selected the best performing parameters for producing small and spherical microcapsules. Alginate concentration was found to produce smaller microcapsules when kept at a minimum. However, the Implosion of microcapsules formed with less than 2%w/v alginate concentration was observed. Voltage increment produced smaller capsules, and fibre formation began at 21kV. Lower feed rates favoured both smaller microcapsules and better sphericity. Reduction in the needle orifice also favoured the formation of smaller microcapsules with less sphericity. Overall, a needle gauge of 27G, a voltage of 21kV, a flowrate of 0.5ml/h, and 2% w/v calcium chloride concentration were the best parameter combinations for producing small and spherical microcapsules.
Understanding the Effects of Infill Patterns and Fiber Loading on Mechanical Properties of 3D Printed Tobacco Stalks-PLA Composites Using X-Ray Tomography
Authors: Agbayani Mark Anthony R. , Emolaga Carlo S. , Tabuso Aldrin Jan , Paglicawan Marissa A.
Published: November 2022

This study utilized the Philippine burley and native tobacco as reinforcing materials to Polylactic Acid (PLA) in creating novel natural fiber-thermoplastic 3D printing filaments. As a new material for 3D printing, the effects of fiber loading, fiber species, and printing pattern on the mechanical properties of the tobacco fiber-PLA composites were investigated. Regardless of tobacco species and fiber loading, the honeycomb pattern showed superior tensile strength than its rectilinear counterpart. The same trend was also observed in the impact strength of some tobacco-PLA samples. Increase in fiber loading on the other hand, decreased the flexural strength and flexural modulus of the tobacco fiber-PLA composites. The trends in the mechanical properties were then analyzed using 3D X-Ray Computed Tomography, which allowed analysis and visualization of voids and layer patterns.
AC Susceptibility and Electrical Properties of Ta-Substituted (TlTa)SrCaCuO Superconductor
Authors: Ilhamsyah Abu Bakar Putra , Abd-Shukor Roslan , Humaidi Syahrul , Jannah A.N.
Published: November 2022

The effects of Ta substitution on the superconducting properties of and (Tl1-xTax)Sr2CaCu2O7 for x = 0.1 to 0.3 were reported. The characterization includes X-Ray diffraction, resistivity versus temperature measurement and AC susceptibility. All samples were prepared by the solid-state reaction method. The X-Ray diffraction pattern displayed the presence of Tl-1212 as the major phase for all samples. The resistance versus temperature curves for sample x = 0.3 showed onset transition temperature, Tc onset and zero transition temperature, Tc zero at 47 K and 30 K, respectively. AC susceptibility measurement showed susceptibility transition temperature, Tc χ’ at 24 K and 30 K for sample x = 0.2 and 0.3, respectively. This study showed that higher substitution of Ta enhanced the superconducting properties of Tl-1212 superconductor.
Reduced Aging of Thermoplastic Starch Films with Green Hybrid Filler
Authors: Adnan Sinar Arzuria , Osman Azlin Fazlina , Lai Di Sheng , Ibrahim Ismail , Ahmad Salimi Midhat Nabil , Ahmad Zaidi Nur Hidayah , Jaafar@ Mustapha Mariatti
Published: November 2022

Thermoplastic starch film (TPSF) and hybrid thermoplastic starch film (HTPSF) were stored for 3 months to study the effect of aging on the mechanical properties and crystalline structure of the starch biopolymer. The alteration of the mechanical properties and crystalline structure of the films were analyzed through tensile test and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis. The incorporation of the hybrid filler (microcrystalline cellulose + nanobentonite) in the HTPSF has effectively prevented retrogradation happen in the starch structure. In contrary, the TPSF showed high degree of retrogradation resulted in significant decrement in elongation at break which was not observed in the HTPSF after 3 months of aging test.
Optimization and Performance of Laser Machining on Domex Steel
Authors: Manikandan B. , Harinarayanan G. , Surender V. , Ravi D. , Vishvakarma Amit Kumar
Published: November 2022

In metal forming process, laser machining is plays a foremost role. It is utilized to machine very hard profile with exceptional quality characteristics. Domex 700 steel has high strength and wear resistant. The formability, durability and weldability of the domex steel are better than other grade of steels. Laser beam machining is suitable to machine domex steel with different input constrains such as power of laser, laser speed and standoff distance (SoD). The responses such as rate of metal removal (RMR) and surface roughness (SR) were recorded based on the variation of input factors. The effect and quality characteristics were optimized through taguchi approach. The variance analysis was provided the contribution of each factor with their effect on the response.
Removal of “Majority-Rule” and “Sergeant-Soldier” Polysilane Scaffold from the Hetero-Aggregation System Consisting Circularly Polarized Polydioctylfluorene
Authors: Wei Chew Kang , Abdul Rahim Nor Azura , Fujiki Michiya
Published: November 2022

The “majority-rule” and “sergeant-soldier” principle action containing either or both non-charged chiral helix of both Poly (n-hexyl-(S)-2-methylbutylsilane) (PSi-S) and poly (n-hexyl-(R)-2-methylbutylsilane) (PSi-R) were employed as scaffold to determine the polymer capability to amplified chiral shape to the achiral poly (9,9-di-n-octylfluorene) PF8 in a hetero-aggregate system. The majority-rule polysilane refers to the PSi-R-ran-PSi-S copolymers with excess copolymers of R or S in a copolymer system. Meanwhile, the “sergeant and soldier” polysilane was described as PSi-R(S)-ran-PSi-iBu copolymers when one chiral element imposes its screw sense on a large “platoon” of achiral copolymer fragments. For PSi-R-ran-PSi-S copolymers, the effect is rather small featuring PF8 small monotonic increase along with the percentage of back-bone chiral unit. In PSi-R(S)-ran-PSi-iBu copolymer systems, the helix inversion is more obvious in which the PF8 followed the PSi chiral screw preferences.
Optimization of Quench Polish Quench (QPQ) Coating Process Using Taguchi Method
Authors: Saravanan M. , Vasanth M. , Boopathi Sampath , Sureshkumar M. , Haribalaji V.
Published: November 2022

In this research, the thickness of coating layer and hardness of coated 316L stainless steel surface has been improved by Quench Polish Quench (QPQ) coating process. The influences of nitriding Temperature(T), nitriding time(tc), and Oxidation time(to) on hardness and thickness of coated surface have also been investigated using Taguchi method. During this process, the percentage of carbonate and cyanate, post oxidation temperature, and time are constantly maintained. The experimental investigations have been performed using the Taguchi analysis to examine the effects and to predict the combination of optimum processing time settings. The nitriding time and temperature are significantly contributed to the hardness and maximizing the thickness respectively. The level-3 of all process parameters has been recommended to maximize the hardness (800 Hv) and layer thickness (19.6 µm). The microstructure of the Layer thickness on the coated stainless-steel surface has been illustrated using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) image.
Caregiving for people with dementia in a rural context in South Africa
Authors: Gurayah Thavanesi
Published: November 2022

Background: This research is an exploratory pilot study into the phenomenon of caregiving for people with dementia in a rural context in South Africa. Method: This study used a qualitative method of inquiry for conducting individual interviews with five caregivers to collect the data. The interviews were conducted in the local language of isiZulu. All interviews were audiotaped, and then transcribed into English. Transcriptions were analysed using thematic analysis.Findings: There were three main emergent themes, namely views and responsibilities of the caregiver, impact of caregiving, and skills and services to assist the caregiver. There were numerous subsidiary themes such as acceptance of the ageing process, a sense of duty and kinship in African culture, and dealing with problem behaviours. Caregiving was also viewed as a character-building experience, and has major implications such as promoting social isolation, restricting activities of daily living, reducing employment and increasing financial burden. Services that would alleviate caregiver burden are education, caregiver training, a financial grant and respite care.Conclusions: Although these findings are not generalisable, it would appear that caregivers of people with dementia suffer significant psychosocial distress, and would benefit from emotional and financial support. It remains to be seen who will provide this support, but policy-makers as well as governmental and non-governmental organisations will have to factor this into their forward planning to render an effective service for people with dementia and their families. Advocacy groups should also disseminate information on dementia and caregiving responsibility, whilst healthcare professionals should screen for caregiver stress or caregiver burden in individuals caring for people with dementia.
The contribution of family physicians to district health services: a national position paper for South Africa
Authors: Mash Robert , Ogunbanjo G. , Naidoo S. S. , Hellenberg D.
Published: November 2022

This position paper on Family Medicine in South Africa was written for the National Department of Health in 2014 for the purposes of delivering a comprehensive assessment of the contribution that family physicians could make to the health system, and the issues that need to be addressed in order to realise this contribution. The paper mainly addresses issues in the public sector. It outlines the policy environment, health and health services context, the contribution of family physicians, their role in relationship to other healthcare workers, the initial evidence of their impact, the implications for posts and career pathways and the current state of training programmes, as well as providing key recommendations. The paper represents the viewpoint of the South African Academy of Family Physicians and the College of Family Physicians of South Africa, and attempts to speak with one voice on the current situation and need for future action.
WHASA consensus document on the management of the diabetic foot
Authors: Naude Liezel , Smart Hiske , Tudhope Lynne , Janse van Rensburg Gerda , Alexander Howard , Abdool-Carrim Talib , Chrysostomou Daniel , Ongaru Neford , Al Dabbas Hazem , Walker Monique , Lingard Alison , Trenholm Emma , Naidoo Maria , Zikalala Nonhlanka , Langa Thuli
Published: November 2022

No abstract available.
Prevalence and risk factors associated with Japanese encephalitis virus infection in swine population of Assam, India
Authors: Hussain Mir , Dhanze Himani , Mehta Deepa , Kumar M. Suman , Gandham Ravi Kumar , Gupta Megha , Barua AG , Suresh K.P , Singh Balbir B
Published: November 2022

Objective:

To assess the prevalence of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) and associated risk factors in the swine population of Assam.

Methods:

A total of 432 swine serum and blood samples were collected from Barpeta and Sonitpur districts of Assam and were screened for the presence of JEV antibodies. Information related to risk factors was collected using a self-designed questionnaire from 120 swine-rearing farmers. Linear-mixed models were used for prevalence estimation. Univariate and multivariate regression models were constructed to evaluate the association of demography, season and management practices with JEV positive status.

Results:

Overall, the JEV infection prevalence was 51.6% at farm and 47.1% at slaughter premises. Phylogenetic analysis of partial sequence of envelope gene of two positive field samples revealed that both isolates belonged to genotype III JEV. Isolate 1 shared a common clade with human isolates while isolate 2 belonged to the same clade as that of other JEV swine strain isolated from India. The final multivariate model showed that two factors including monsoon season (Adjusted OR 5.6; 95% CI 2.1-14.9; P<0.001) and water logging in the area near the pig shelter (Adjusted OR 16.9; 95% CI 6.1-47.3; P<0.001) were associated with greater odds of swine being infected with JEV.

Conclusions:

High prevalence of JEV in swine population of Assam state indicates a significant risk of virus transmission to humans while risk factor study underlines the urgent need for awareness campaigns in the Assam.
Post−discharge mortality in the first wave of COVID−19 in Turkey
Authors: Fakili Fusun , Cetinkaya Pelin Duru , Baydar Oya , Baris Serap Argun , Kokturk Nurdan , Kul Seval , Karcioglu Oguz , Yildiz Pinar Aysert , Irmak Ilim , Sekibag Yonca , Azak Emel , Mulamahmutoglu Sait , Cuhadaroglu Caglar , Kerget Bugra , Ketencioglu Burcu Baran , Ozger Hasan Selcuk , Ozkan Gulcihan , Ture Zeynep , Ercelik Merve , Ciftci Tansu Ulukavak , Alici Ozlem , Temel Esra Nurlu , Ataoglu Ozlem , Kose Neslihan , Tor Muge Meltem , Gunluoglu Gulsah , Altin Sedat , Ozturk Onder , Gulhan Pinar Yildiz , Basyigit Ilknur , Boyaci Hasim , Oguzulgen I. Kivilcim , Borekci Sermin , Gemicioglu Bilun , Hanta Ismail , Okur Hacer Kuzu , Sagcan Gulseren , Akgun Metin , Kalyoncu Ali Fuat , Itil Oya , Bayram Hasan
Published: November 2022

Objective:

To determine post-discharge mortality and associated factors of the first-wave multicenter Turkish Thoracic Society (TTD)-TURCOVID study.

Methods:

In this retrospective cohort study, we analyzed the data of 18 of 26 centers included in the first TTD-TURCOVID study, and 1 112 cases diagnosed with COVID-19 between 11 March and 31 July 2020 participated in the study. All causes of death after COVID-19 discharge were recorded.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was (51.07±16.93) years, with 57.6% male patients. In the cohort group, 89.1% of COVID-19 treatment locations were hospital wards, 3.6% were intensive care units (ICUs), and 7.2% were community outpatients. In the longterm follow-up, the in-hospital mortality rate was 3.6% (95% CI 2.64.8), the post-discharge mortality rate was 2.8% (95% CI 1.9-3.9), and the total mortality was 6.3% (95% CI 5.0-7.8). After discharge, 63.3% of mortality overall occurred during the first six months. Mortality rates in post-discharge follow-ups were 12.7% (95% CI 8.0-30.6) in cancer patients, 10.8% (95% CI 6.3-22.9) in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients, 11.1% (95% CI 4.4-22.7) in heart failure patients, 7.8 (95% CI 3.8-14.3) in atherosclerotic heart disease patients, and 2.3% (95% CI 0.8-5.6) in diabetes mellitus patients. In smokers/ex-smokers, the all-mortality rates were higher than in non-smokers.

Conclusions:

This multicenter study showed that patients over 65 years of age, males, former/active smoker, ICU stay, lung, heart disease, and malignancy should be followed up for at least the first six months after discharge due to COVID-19.
EUS-guided coil placement and cyanoacrylate glue injection for gastric variceal bleeding with obvious spontaneous portosystemic shunts
Authors: Tang Li , Li Xu , Cui Jun , Huang Liu-Ye
Published: November 2022

Background and Objective:

Ectopic embolism caused by cyanoacrylate glue for the treatment of gastric varices with obvious spontaneous portosystemic shunts is a serious complication of endoscopic therapy. This study was performed to investigate the safety and therapeutic effect of EUS-guided coil placement and cyanoacrylate glue injection for gastric varices with obvious spontaneous portosystemic shunts.

Materials and Methods:

Six patients with gastric variceal bleeding and obvious spontaneous portosystemic shunts were included in this study. We evaluated the success rate of variceal occlusion after intraoperative embolization, the postoperative rebleeding rate at 48 h and 2 weeks posttreatment, and the incidence of ectopic embolism and other adverse events. Gastroscopy and computed tomography portal venography (CTPV) were performed 7 months later.

Results:

All patients underwent successful coil placement and cyanoacrylate glue injection under EUS guidance. The blood flow was confirmed by Doppler examination, the target vessels were successfully blocked, and no rebleeding had occurred at 48 h or 2 weeks after endoscopic treatment. Gastroscopy was repeated 7 months after endoscopic treatment, revealing local ulcer formation. CTPV was also repeated 7 months after endoscopic treatment, showing that the coils were present in the target vessels with no displacement, the portosystemic shunt vessels were occluded, and no ectopic embolization had occurred.

Conclusion:

The coil placement combined with cyanoacrylate glue embolism is a safe and effective method for patients with gastric variceal bleeding and obvious spontaneous portosystemic shunts.
Comparison between EUS-guided fine-needle biopsy with or without rapid on-site evaluation for tissue sampling of solid pancreatic lesions: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Facciorusso Antonio , Gkolfakis Paraskevas , Tziatzios Georgios , Ramai Daryl , Papanikolaou Ioannis S. , Triantafyllou Konstantinos , Lisotti Andrea , Fusaroli Pietro , Mangiavillano Benedetto , Chandan Saurabh , Mohan Babu P , Crinò Stefano Francesco
Published: November 2022

The benefit of rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) on the diagnostic accuracy of EUS–guided fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) in patients with pancreatic masses is still matter of debate. Aim of our meta-analysis is to compare the diagnostic outcomes of these two tissue acquisition strategies. Computerized bibliographic search on the main databases was performed through December 2021 and 8 studies were identified (2147 patients). The primary outcome was sample adequacy. Pooled effects were terms of odds ratio (OR) or mean difference and 95% confidence Interval (CI). There was no difference in terms of baseline variables between the two groups. Pooled sample adequacy was 95.5% (95% CI 93.2%–97.8%) and 88.9% (83.4%-94.5%) in the EUS-FNB + ROSE and EUS-FNB groups, respectively (OR = 2.05, 0.94–4.49; P = 0.07). Diagnostic accuracy resulted significantly superior in the EUS-FNB + ROSE group (OR = 2.49, 1.08–5.73; P = 0.03), particularly when the analysis was restricted to reverse bevel needle (OR = 3.24, 1.19–8.82, P = 0.02), whereas no statistical difference was observed when newer end-cutting needles were used (OR = 0.71, 0.29–3.61, P = 0.56). Diagnostic sensitivity was not significantly different between the two groups (OR = 1.94, 0.84–4.49; P = 0.12), whereas pooled specificity was 100% with both approaches. The number of needle passes needed to obtain diagnostic samples was not significantly different (mean difference 0.07,-0.22 to 0.37; P = 0.62). Our meta-analysis stands for a non-superiority of EUS-FNB + ROSE over EUS-FNB with newer end-cutting needles, whereas ROSE could have still a role when reverse bevel needles are used.
Small nonfunctional pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms: Time for a step-up treatment approach?
Authors: Rimbaş Mihai , Rizzatti Gianenerico , Tosoni Alberto , Impagnatiello Michele , Panzuto Francesco , Larghi Alberto
Published: November 2022

Surgery has been regarded as the only curative treatment for patients with small nonfunctional pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (NF-PNENs) less than 2 cm. Due to the significant adverse event rates of surgery, the European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society issued guidelines favoring surveillance for those patients lacking criteria suggestive of an aggressive disease. Despite the above recommendations, a significant proportion of small NF-PNEN patients still undergo surgery. Recently, several studies have reported the safety and effectiveness of EUS-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of small NF-PNENs. The experience with EUS-RFA is, however, limited, but published results indicate a potential role as a minimally invasive alternative treatment for these patients, in particular in those in whom further progression is more probable, before they reach the absolute need for surgery. A step-up approach with EUS-RFA followed by surgery for the failure cases can become a valid option to be validated in clinical studies.
The clinical efficacy and safety of TACE combined with apatinib for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: A propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Chen Cheng , Duan Xiaoting , Shen Yanfeng , Li Guiying
Published: November 2022

Background:

The combined treatment of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) and apatinib had beneficial effects on the survival of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the efficacy of this regimen is still controversial and needs further investigation.

Materials and Methods:

The clinical records of advanced HCC patients between May 2015 and December 2016 were collected from our hospital. They were categorized into the TACE monotherapy group and the combination of TACE and apatinib group. After propensity score matching (PSM) analysis, the disease control rate (DCR), objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), and occurrence of adverse events were compared between the two treatments.

Results:

There were 115 HCC patients included in the study. Among them, 53 received TACE monotherapy and 62 were treated with TACE plus apatinib. After PSM analysis, 50 pairs of patients were compared. The DCR of the TACE group was significantly lower than that of the combination of TACE and apatinib group (35 [70%] versus 45 [90%], P < 0.05). The ORR of the TACE group was also significantly lower than that of the combination of TACE and apatinib group (22 [44%] versus 34 [68%], P < 0.05). Patients who received the combined treatment of TACE and apatinib had longer PFS compared with those in the TACE monotherapy group (P < 0.001). Moreover, hypertension, hand–foot syndrome, and albuminuria were more common in the combination of TACE and apatinib group (P < 0.05), although all adverse events were well tolerated.

Conclusions:

The combined treatment of TACE and apatinib showed beneficial effects on tumor response, survival outcomes, and tolerance to treatment, which may be used as a routine regimen for advanced HCC patients.
Molecular characterization of BK virus detected in renal transplant patients in Sri Lanka: a preliminary study
Authors: Ratnayake A.K.D. Varuni Yashodha , Fernando Narmada , Gajanayake Thusitha , Handunnetti Shiroma Mangalika , Jayamaha S. Chrishan Jude
Published: November 2022

Background & objectives:

BK virus (BKV) is a polyomavirus and cause of a common infection after renal transplantation which could be preceded to BKV-associated nephropathy. It has four main subtypes (I–IV). BKV subtypes II and III are rare, whereas subtype I shows a ubiquitous distribution. The objective of the present study was to investigate the prevailing BKV subtypes and subgroups in renal transplant patients in Sri Lanka.

Methods:

The presence of BKV in urine was tested through virus load quantification by real-time PCR from 227 renal transplant patients who were suspected to have BKV infection. Of these patients only 41 were found to be BKV infected (>103copies/ml) and those were subjected to conventional PCR amplification of VP1 gene followed by BKV genotyping via phylogenetic analysis based on DNA sequencing data.

Results:

Persistent BK viral loads varied from 1×103 to 3×108 copies/ml. Of the 41 patient samples, 25 gave positive results for PCR amplification of subtyping region of VP1 gene of BKV. BKV genotyping resulted in detecting subtype I in 18 (72%) and subtype II in seven (28%) patients. BKV subgroups of Ia, Ib-1 and Ib-11, and Ic were identified with frequencies of 6/18 (33.3%), 6/18 (33.3%), 5/18 (27.8%), and 1/18 (5.6%), respectively.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Findings from this preliminary study showed a high occurrence of subtype I, while the presence of subtype II, which is rare and less prevalent, was a novel finding for this Asian region. This emphasizes the need for further molecular and serological studies to determine the prevalence of different BKV subtypes in Sri Lanka.
Effect of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic on Suicide-Related Trauma Burden at a Level 1 Trauma Center
Authors: Eden Claire M. , Zhu Roger , Khedr Shahenda , Khariton Konstantin
Published: November 2022

Introduction:

In March 2020, the first coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases were reported in New York and a stay-at-home order was enacted soon after. Social isolation combined with pandemic-related stressors profoundly affected mental health. We hypothesize that there was an increase in violent suicide attempt during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown compared to previous years.

Methods:

We queried our institutional trauma registry for total number of trauma activations and identified adult patients with International Classification of Diseases-10 diagnosis of intentional self-harm. We compared incidence during the lockdown to corresponding time periods from previous years. Demographic and injury characteristics were compared, as were outcomes such as mortality.

Results:

We observe a significant uptrend in patients requiring trauma intervention after suicide attempts from July 2019 through July 2020 (r = 0.8, P < 0.001) despite a significant downtrend in trauma volume at our institution during the same period (r = [FIGURE DASH]0.7, P = 0.003). Although not statistically significant, patients attempting violent suicide during lockdown were more likely to have preexisting psychiatric diagnoses, to live alone, to have injury severity score >9, and to require surgical intervention. Three COVID-period patients died in the emergency room compared to zero in the comparison group.

Conclusion:

Our data show a rise in violent suicide attempts during the pandemic lockdown despite an overall decrease in trauma volume. The ramifications of a stay-at-home order seem to have the most profound impact on individuals with preexisting mental health disease. Early establishment of mental health outreach programs may mitigate the reverberating psychosocial consequences of a pandemic.