bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crosslink density and mechanical property evolution during the curing of polyurethane-urea/sodium silicate hybrid composites
Authors: Sun Yong , Yu Anqi , Liang Yuntao , Wang Gang , Song Shuanglin , Lu Wei , He Zhenglong , Meng Shaocong
Published: August 2021

In order to understand the evolution of the structure–property relationship between the crosslink density and mechanical properties of polyurethane-urea/sodium silicate (PU/SS) hybrid composites, a series of PU/SS composites with 2.5 wt% organofunctional silanes and pure PU/SS composites are investigated at different curing time. Mechanical properties, the fracture surface morphology, and thermo-mechanical properties of these PU/SS composites are characterized by electron omnipotence experiment machine, scanning electron microscope, and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), respectively. The mechanical test results show the strength and fracture toughness of the PU/SS composites first increase and then stabilize during cure, and the modification leads to PU/SS composites with significantly higher mechanical properties. Further, the morphology of fractured samples also reveals that the longer curing time and the modification of the PU/SS composites means a higher curing degree. Moreover, the increase in the crosslink density calculated from the DMA tests quantitatively confirmed the positive influence of the curing time and the modification in enhancing mechanical properties. In addition, it is also found that the mechanical properties of the PU/SS composites not only depend on the crosslink density but also on the well-dispersed hybrid PU/SS system.
Design of a non-singular fast terminal sliding mode control for second-order nonlinear systems with compound disturbance
Authors: Salehi Kolahi Mohammad Reza , Gharib Mohammad Reza , Heydari Ali
Published: August 2021

This paper investigates a new disturbance observer based non-singular fast terminal sliding mode control technique for the path tracking and stabilization of non-linear second-order systems with compound disturbance. The compound disturbance is comprised of both parametric and non-parametric uncertainties. While warranting fast convergence rate and robustness, it also dominates the singularity and complex-value number issues associated with conventional terminal sliding mode control. Furthermore, due to the estimation properties of the observer, knowledge about the bounds of the uncertainties is not required. The simulation results of two case studies, the velocity and path tracking of an autonomous underwater vehicle and the stabilization of a chaotic Φ6-Duffing oscillator, validate the efficacy of the proposed method.
Experimental study and multi-objective optimization of process parameters during turning of 100Cr6 using C-type advanced coated tools
Authors: Bhandarkar LR , Mohanty PP , Sarangi SK
Published: August 2021

The drive of this research is to examine the machinability of 100Cr6 bearing steel using advanced C-type cutting tools. Experimental studies investigated the effects of machining variables on the surface quality, chip reduction coefficient and cutting force. Seven advanced coated tools were checked for characterization by micro hardness (VHN), adhesion quality, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS). The experimental trials were planned by Taguchi’s L18 orthogonal array using a mixed-level design. Two numerical machining variables feed rate and cutting speed, and one categorical machining variable tool type was taken into consideration while a constant depth of cut was kept for all trails. A combined Taguchi-Satisfaction function distance measure approach was implemented for multi-response optimization. The most promising machining parameter setting for minimization of surface roughness, cutting force, and chip reduction coefficient was identified. The most important process parameter was found to be tool-type. Ceramics tools are found to be best trailed by WC coated tools under most of the conditions. Lower tool wear was observed in the CBN tool as compared to others.
Mid- to late-Holocene analysis of the influence of the La Plata River plume on the southwestern Atlantic shelf: A paleoenvironmental reconstruction based on lipid biomarkers and benthic foraminifera
Authors: Bícego Marcia Caruso , Santos Felipe Rodrigues , de Aandrade Furlan Poliana Carvalho , Lourenço Rafael André , Taniguchi Satie , de Mello e Sousa Silvia Helena , Nagai Renata Hanae , Cavalcante Ana Beatriz Leite , Figueira Rubens Cesar Lopes , Wainer Ilana Klein Coaracy , de Mahiques Michel Michaelovitch
Published: August 2021

A combined analysis of sedimentological, molecular, and microfossil proxies was used to determine paleoclimatic and paleoceanographic variations and assess sediment transport pathways along the last c.a. 6300 years in a sedimentary record collected on the inner shelf of the southwestern Atlantic Ocean. The combined use of terrestrial and marine proxies enables a more complete environmental perspective of the La Plata River plume influence on the southwestern Atlantic shelf, regarding the relationship between climate, productivity, as well as hydrodynamic. Variations in marine productivity, lipid biomarkers of terrestrial plants, diagnostic geochemical indices, and sea-surface temperature point to three phases within the core. The first interval (6300–5200 cal yr BP) was characterized by low marine and terrigenous organic matter input, with pulses of phytodetritus indicated by benthic foraminifera. These features suggested dry climatic conditions over the southeastern portion of South America, with the influence of sediments from the adjacent continent and, on a smaller scale, transported from the Argentinian shelf due to the high relative sea level. The second interval (5200–2800 cal yr BP) was distinguished by a slight increase in marine productivity and terrigenous input, indicating a transition period with an increase of total rainfall influenced by an intensified South American Monsoon System (SAMS) and the modern El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon. These features, associated with the changes in wind patterns and the lower relative sea level, suggest the onset of the influence of the La Plata River (LPR) plume over the southern regions of the Brazilian continental shelf for the last 6300 cal yr BP. The last interval (2800–890 cal yr BP) had the highest contents of marine and terrigenous proxies, suggesting less climatic variability, as the long-term intensification of the SAMS and a further increase in the amplitude of the ENSO resulted in the modern establishment and dominant influence of the LPR plume on the core site. Variations in sea-surface temperature up to 3.3°C were related to the influence of the LPR plume on the shelf off southern Brazil.
The role of nurses' professional values during the COVID-19 crisis
Authors: González-Pando David , González-Nuevo Covadonga , González-Menéndez Ana , Alonso-Pérez Fernando , Cuesta Marcelino
Published: August 2021

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic has produced high stress in nurses, affecting their professional quality of life. Different variables affect psychological stress response and professional quality of life. In this context, the role of professional values represents an interesting object of research.

Objectives:

To analyze the relationship between professional values, perceived stress, and professional quality of life among nurses during the COVID-19 crisis.

Research design, participants, and research context:

Descriptive cross-sectional study. Participants were 439 registered nurses from the public health system. Perceived stress, professional quality of life, and professional values were evaluated by using measuring instruments adapted and validated in the geographic context of research. Data were collected online in December 2020 during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain.

Ethical considerations:

This study was approved by the Ethics Committee on Clinical Research of the Principality of Asturias.

Findings:

Within professional values, ethics obtained higher scores showing the primacy of ethical values among nurses. Moderate correlations between ethics, mastery, expertise, and compassion satisfaction were found. Frontline nurses informed high perceived stress. The correlations between professional values and compassion satisfaction were higher in non-frontline nurses. A moderate negative correlation between perceived stress and compassion satisfaction was found in both groups, which implies that the higher the stress, the lower the satisfaction in the helping relationship.

Conclusion:

Professional values positively influence compassion satisfaction during the COVID-19 pandemic. Compassion satisfaction presents a negative correlation with fatigue compassion and burnout in frontline and non-frontline nurses. Given the functionality of values both to guide clinical practice professionally and ethically, and prevent dissatisfaction with one’s professional quality of life by reinforcing compassion satisfaction, it is necessary to reinforce them with an intensive and cross-sectional learning during the university training.
Linking Personality with Contextual Performance through Subjective Well-being Using PLS SEM Modelling
Authors: Kumar Abhishek , Mohapatra Mamta , Dhir Swati
Published: August 2021

The objective of the study is to empirically examine the various components of subjective well-being (SWB) and its role in the association between personality and contextual performance (CP). To validate the proposed model, Indian executives from various organizations were surveyed with a survey method. The sample response from 809 respondents has been analysed with the assistance of the partial least squares (PLS) structural equation modelling (SEM) approach. The results from the study establish SWB as a mediator between personality and CP. A positive association is observed with specific components of personality factors and SWB and CP. Organizations can also learn from the study that increasing the SWB of employees is one of the important parameters for their CP.
Prospects for the Balanced Development of the Waste Management System in Ukraine
Authors: Kolodiichuk Iryna , Dubnevych Yuriy , Kolodiichuk Volodymyr , Dmytriv Vasyl
Published: August 2021

This article outlines the problem of waste accumulation as well as the associated environmental consequences in Ukraine due to the disparities between waste generation and utilization capacities. The analysis of quantitative parameters of waste generation sources and the territorial structure of Ukraine’s utilization capacities was carried out, and the spatial assessment of waste management system balance within regions was made. The work also identifies stages of territorially balanced management systems formation within the scope of current recycling technologies in the regional dimension. Methodological approaches to researching the balance conditions of waste management systems at the regional level are substantiated, which presupposes a mathematical model of these processes through the development of a system of equations, which depending on the tasks determine either the timing of the outlined phases of solving waste management issues based on available investment resources, or the amount of funds required to ensure proper timing of the innovative disposal facilities commissioning.
Trade Credit as a Determinant of Firm’s Financial Performance: Moderating Role of Bank Financing
Authors: Farooq Umar , Ahmed Jaleel , Ashfaq Khurram , Tabash Mosab I.
Published: August 2021

The objective of study is to find out the impact of trade credit on a firm’s financial performance and how this effect diversifies when enterprises acquire bank loans to finance the trade credit channel. To achieve the objective, we employ the data of 6,654 non-financial-sector firms from 12 Asian economies and apply fixed-effects model to estimate the regression. The statistical output of the model provides consistent evidence that the firms that adjust their trade credit activities through bank financing perform better financially. Acquisition of bank loans to expand the trade credit activities is a healthy financial activity because it provides financial setbacks in case of any fluctuation in trade credit. However, acquiring bank loans when firms have no operational need for such types of funds can disturb their financial health. Briefly, the analysis provides novel evidence that efficient usage of bank loans into physical business activities can intensify financial efficiency of corporate firms. The analysis provides financial guidance to corporate managers that before entering into any trade credit terms, they should ensure the availability of bank loans because it provides a strong financial pace against any financial shock.
Land Acquisition, Markets and Political Networks: Evidence from the Indian Sundarbans
Authors: Sarkhel Prasenjit , Mukherjee Anirban
Published: August 2021

In recent times, land acquisitions in India for both public and private projects are facing stiff political resistance. Existing studies on land acquisition mostly focus on optimal compensation that would secure the consent of land owners. In this article, we argue that besides compensation, membership in different types of networks such as political parties and self-help groups might influence landowner consent. This could occur either because of pro-social concerns or access to better investment opportunities for the compensation amount. Using survey data from flood prone Indian Sundarbans, where the government sought to acquire land to construct embankments, we find evidence supportive of our hypothesis. The survey elicited reservation price response from land owners for a hypothetical land acquisition program. Our estimates show that land owners with self-help group members are more likely to have a higher ask price for agreeing to land sales. In contrast, controlling for length of party association, members of political networks are more likely to sell their land and have a lower reservation price than their non-political counterparts. Our results suggest that, rather than only increasing the compensation package, which is a stock of wealth, it is equally important to enhance the flow of income to ensure consensual land sales.
Book review: Tom Barnes. 2018. Making Cars in the New India: Industry, Precarity and Informality
Authors: Sanchez Andrew
Published: August 2021

Tom Barnes. 2018. Making Cars in the New India: Industry, Precarity and Informality. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. 261pp., £31.99. ISBN: 9781108433792.
Book review: Debojyoti Das. 2018. The Politics of Swidden Farming: Environment and Development in Eastern India
Authors: Padel Felix
Published: August 2021

Debojyoti Das. 2018. The Politics of Swidden Farming: Environment and Development in Eastern India. Anthem Press, 252 pages, Price £70 (£18.36 kindle).
Book review: Jayaram, Dhanasree, Climate Diplomacy and Emerging Economies: India as a Case Study
Authors: Mundra Aanehi
Published: August 2021

Jayaram, Dhanasree, Climate Diplomacy and Emerging Economies: India as a Case Study (Routledge, 2021). Pp. 154. Price £44.99 ISBN: 9780367634025 (hardback), £16.99 (e-copy).
Association of choroidal structure and body mass index in an adult population
Authors: Temel Emine , Aşikgarip Nazife , Örnek Kemal
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

To determine the relation of choroidal structural parameters and body mass index (BMI) in an adult population.

Methods:

About 144 eyes of 144 healthy individuals were incorporated. There were four groups according to BMI values: Group 1 (⩽18.5), group 2 (18.6–24.9), group 3 (25.0–29.9), and group 4 (30.0–34.9). The enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography images were binarized using Image-J software. Choroidal thickness (CT), circumscribed choroidal area (CCA), luminal area (LA), stromal area (SA), and choroidal vascularity index (CVI) were calculated.

Results:

Mean subfoveal, nasal, and temporal CT were lower in group 4 rather than group 1 ( p = 0.032, p = 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). Mean nasal and temporal CT also showed a decrease in group 4 as compared to group 2 ( p = 0.04 and p = 0.039). Mean CCA and LA were decreased in group 4 in comparison to group 3 ( p = 0.001 and p = 0.001), group 2 ( p < 0.001 and p < 0.001), and group 1 ( p = 0.001 and p < 0.001). Mean SA showed a decrease only in group 3 rather than group 2 ( p = 0.021) and group 1 ( p = 0.008). Mean CVI was decreased in group 3 and group 4 in comparison to group 1 ( p < 0.001 and p < 0.001) and group 2 ( p = 0.002 and p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Increased BMI percentile was associated with a decrease in CT and structural parameters.
Blockade of KAT II Facilitates LTP in Kynurenine 3-Monooxygenase Depleted Mice
Authors: Imbeault Sophie , Gubert Olivé Max , Jungholm Oscar , Erhardt Sophie , Wigström Holger , Engberg Göran , Jardemark Kent
Published: August 2021

Excess of brain kynurenic acid (KYNA), a neuroactive metabolite of the kynurenine pathway, is known to elicit cognitive dysfunction. In the present study, we investigated spatial working memory in mice with elevated levels of KYNA, induced by targeted deletion of kynurenine 3-monooxygenase (KMO), as well as long-term potentiation (LTP) of field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) in hippocampal brain slices from these mice. The KMO knock-out (KMO−/−) mice performed more poorly in the spatial working memory task as compared to their wild-type (WT) counterparts, as reflected by fewer correct choices in a T-maze. Both fEPSPs, or LTP, did not significantly differ between the 2 mouse strains. However, administration of PF-04859989, a kynurenine aminotransferase (KAT) II inhibitor, limiting the production of KYNA, facilitated fEPSP and enhanced LTP to a greater extent in hippocampal slices from KMO−/− mice compared to WT mice. The results of the present study point to an essential role for KYNA in modulating LTP in the hippocampus of KMO−/− mice which may account for their dysfunctional spatial working memory.
Non-Operative Management of Bronchobiliary Fistula Due to Proximal Migration of Biliary Stent in a Patient With Unresectable Klatskin Tumor
Authors: Tsema Ievgen , Slobodianyk Viktor , Rahushyn Dmytro , Myrhorodskiy Denys , Yurkiv Oleh , Dinets Andrii
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

One of the methods for the biliary tree decompression in the case of Klatskin tumor is transpapillary stenting, which could be completed by stent migration in 4% to 10% of cases. Approximately half of the stent migrations are in the proximal direction. In this study, we reported a rare case of proximal trans-diaphragmatic stent migration to the lower lobe of the right lung with the formation of a biliary-bronchial fistula (BBF).

Case presentation:

A 60-year-old woman was diagnosed with hilar cholangiocarcinoma (type 3B by Bismuth-Corlette) complicated by posthepatic jaundice. To relieve jaundice there were performed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, endoscopic sphincterotomy, endobiliary stent placement (10 Fr, 150 mm). A restenting (11.5 Fr, 130 mm) was performed in 2.5 months due to endobiliary tube occlusion. In the next 2 months, coughing attacks and biliptysis have appeared in the patient. A CT scan showed penetration of the liver, diaphragm, and lower lobe of the right lung with the proximal part of the stent and caused BBF formation. Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial therapy was administrated for 14 days and BBF was closed. Stent retrieval from the right hemithorax and endobiliary restenting was performed in 9 months after primary stenting. During follow-up, appropriate positioning and functioning of the stent were observed.

Conclusion:

BBF formation is a rare complication of endobiliary stenting, which can be successfully treated by anti-inflammatory and antibiotic therapy, followed by transpapillary stent retrieval.
Reconciling opposites to reach compromise during ELT textbook development
Authors: Atkinson Dawn
Published: August 2021

Though reports of pedagogic materials production point to the range of compromises authors make when writing language teaching textbooks, many accounts are retrospective in nature. This study sought to expand the research perspective by interrogating writing episodes via qualitative content analysis to discover how two expert ELT (English language teaching) textbook writers managed compromises during ongoing coursebook development. The authors’ data sets – primarily composed of think-aloud protocols and transcripts of pre- and post-concurrent verbalization interviews – revealed that they applied pragmatic judgement when contemplating the incorporation of textually authentic material and reconciled continuity and variety when developing unit frameworks and content, all with textbook audiences, contexts, and purposes in mind. Further, one of the authors reached compromise with project partners to integrate monologue and dialog texts into his book, while the other squared pedagogic imperatives with publishing realities by skillfully navigating textbook length, design, and deadline parameters during her project. By reconciling ostensible opposites to reach compromise, the authors balanced complexities to see their books through to completion. This research may inspire neophyte textbook writers’ efforts as they examine the architecture of writing sessions and prompt teachers to weigh authorial choices and balances during ELT textbook evaluation.
Scaffolding student engagement with written corrective feedback: Transforming feedback sessions into learning affordances
Authors: Nguyen Chi-Duc
Published: August 2021

This study proposed a three-step writing conference in which foreign/second language (L2) students, under the guidance of their writing instructor, first fastened their attentional focus on a form-related error, analysed a collection of standard L2 samples to deduce the underlying knowledge, and then planned for their error correction as well as future learning of this knowledge. The ultimate goal of this formative assessment practice was to scaffold student engagement with written corrective feedback (WCF). Using a between-group experiment design, the present study compared the effects on the success rate of error correction and L2 uptake of the above writing conference ( n = 14) against those brought about by a typical Teacher–Student ( n = 12) and a typical Student–Student one ( n = 12). Research participants were 38 intermediate learners of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) recruited from three intact classes at a language-learning center in Vietnam. The suggested writing conference was indeed found to yield better error correction and L2 uptake than the other counterparts. A closer look at the students’ mental engagement with WCF revealed that such engagement was moderately correlated with their L2 uptake. These findings altogether suggest that student engagement with WCF should not be taken for granted or, in other words, this engagement should be contingently supported by the writing instructor in order to foster learning from WCF.
Shades of care: Understanding the needs of racially and ethnically diverse paediatric patients, their families, and health care providers in North America
Authors: Ladha Raisa , Neiterman Elena
Published: August 2021

While race and ethnicity have been acknowledged as determinants of health, there remain gaps regarding their effects on experiences of paediatric care. This scoping review examines empirical literature regarding the state and experience of paediatric care provided to racially and ethnically diverse families in North America. We seek to clarify the needs of care administrators and recipients, as well as to conceptualize what paediatric care must look like to enable equitable practices and optimal health outcomes. Utilizing Arksey and O’Malley’s framework, we reviewed literature published between 2005 and 2020, most of which was written within an American context. The literature reviewed featured quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods studies. Paediatric care administrators and recipients collectively identified the following as domains requiring an increased focus: (1) knowledge (awareness or training), (2) alignment of views and values, (3) resources and (4) communication. Findings suggest overall that despite there being merit in the cultural competency efforts underway, more patient-centric approaches are vital. This review concludes by encouraging the sustained development of cultural safety initiatives in paediatric care to ultimately promote patient comfort and provider-patient collaboration.
Multi-level residue harmonic balance method for nonlinear vibration of the beam
Authors: Hasan Abu SMZ , Rahman M S
Published: August 2021

This study presents the nonlinear vibration and chaotic response of a beam subjected to harmonic excitation. The multi-level residue harmonic balance method is applied to solve the geometrically cubic nonlinear vibration of the simply supported beam. The obtained results agree well with those of the numerical integration method. The amplitude frequency response curves are presented to illustrate the nonlinear dynamic system response both for a damping and without damping model. Also, the chaotic response is examined for a simply supported beam with a nonlinear dynamic system.
SimYA: A virtual reality–based construction studio simulator
Authors: Şahbaz Eray
Published: August 2021

In architectural education, generally experience is the most permanent way to learn professional skills. However, perhaps as a result of modern education, it is not possible to learn everything about the building by experience. SimYA project aims to help the development of a new generation construction studio based on learning by doing and experiencing in architectural education by using virtual reality (VR) technologies. Within the scope of the project, an interactive VR-based computer simulation (SimYA) developed to demonstrate basic construction elements such as foundations, walls, and roofs. The effectiveness of the SimYA against the traditional method has been tested with a scientific experiment. A total of 32 volunteer architecture students participated in the experiment. The participants were divided into two equal groups within the scope of the experiment. These groups were named as SimYA and control group in a way to be compatible with their related method. First, a pre-test was applied in order to evaluate the current knowledge of the groups. After that, the first group was taught with the VR supported SimYA program and the second group was taught with the traditional method. According to test results, the success rate of the SimYA group increased from 5.63% to 74.86%, and the success rate of the control group increased from 3.12% to 57.95%. These results indicate that the SimYA project has achieved the targeted success. It is thought that placing the building elements and materials in the virtual environment with student’s own hands and receiving visual and audio information from the interactive building elements are an important factor in this success.
The EU as multidisciplinary education podium: Fusing contextual and decisional policy analytics
Authors: Koutsoukis Nikitas-Spiros , Fakiolas Efstathios , Katsis Athanassios , Papadimitriou Pyrros
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this article is to describe a multidisciplinary approach implemented in teaching public policy analysis at university level. The approach fuses (a) contextual policy analysis with (b) bivariate and multivariate analysis techniques and (c) data analytics skills to improve the learners’ competence to conduct “decisional” policy analysis. The teaching subject matter was based on European Union policies and Eurostat data and delivered over a period of 3 years in a semester course and summer school formats. The multidisciplinary fusion generated strong interest among learners and participants from various backgrounds and skill levels. At the end of the course, even those with little or no previous exposure in at least one of the teaching topics were able to quickly grasp the “big picture” and explore their newly acquired knowledge with their own analyses. As a whole, this is an educational design where the multidisciplinary fusion is instrumented in the scope of a single course, not as the combination of different courses in a curriculum. The outcome is a viable and contemporary way to sidestep the quantitative–qualitative analysis divide (where applicable) and help learners gain valuable insight into how seemingly different subjects eventually fuse into applicable knowledge. The multidisciplinary synergy that instigated the course design was mirrored in research effort by the authors leading to publishable work, suggesting that the approach can be adopted and adapted to foster or enhance multidisciplinary research efforts. Similar educational designs can be used in existing curricula to bridge seemingly “distant” subjects and improve the comprehension of how seemingly “distant” subjects relate to each other. As in the case described, in curricula where such subjects already exist, the “raw” expertise is already present and can be readily utilized.
Fibrous coalescence filtration in treating oily wastewater: A review
Authors: Singh Chandra Jeet , Mukhopadhyay Samrat , Rengasamy Raju Seenivasan
Published: August 2021

Many industries discharge oil-in-water emulsion in the waste stream, often above the permissible limit causing serious environmental hazards. Porous media such as membrane and coalescence beds are employed to treat oily wastewater. A coalescence bed filter consists of either fibrous or granular packing and is used for removing larger oil droplets less than 100 μm from secondary emulsions. Fibrous media have higher porosities and specific surface areas than coarse granular media and hence give higher oil removal efficiency. To design an efficient fibrous coalescence bed filter for treating industrial discharge, understanding the mechanism of oil separation is important. This involves the surface wettability of fibers relating to surface chemistry and roughness. Further, fiber diameter, filter bed’s height, porosity, and pore size in relation to the oil droplet size and throughput and influent oil concentration are interactive parameters that affect the efficiency of coalescence. The performance of coalescence filtration is evaluated by analyzing the oil concentrations and D50 droplet sizes in the influent and effluent. In this article, the above-mentioned subjects are comprehensively reviewed from the reported research works, which highlights the complex nature of fibrous coalescence filtration.
Evaluation of the Effect of Pomegranate Seed Oil on Healing in a Rat Wound Model With Antioxidant, Vascular, and Histopathological Parameters
Authors: Atsü, MD A. Nilhan , Tosuner, MD Zeynep , Bilgiç, MD Tayfun
Published: August 2021

The study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of pomegranate ( Punica granatum) seed oil in wound healing in excised rats. Sixteen female young Wistar Albino Rats weighing approximately 300 to 320 g were randomly divided into 2 groups as the treatment (=pomegranate seed oil group) and control groups in this experiment. Six different wounds 1 cm apart from the midline and each other were formed with a 6 mm punch biopsy instrument. Three wounds were left open (open wound group) whereas 3 wounds were sutured with 4/0 vicryl (closed wound group). Punica granatum seed oil treatment was administered topically to the treatment group, both to open and closed wounds, once a day for 14 days. Parameters for healing were evaluated. Histopathologic examination was performed for the investigation of inflammation, neovascularization, granulation, and fibroblast generation in addition to serologic (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) evaluation of rat malondialchehyche, rat glutathione peroxidase, and rat superoxide dismutase. PeriScan PIM 3 System Laser Doppler Blood Perfusion Imager was used for the calculation of blood perfusion. There was a statistically significant difference between inflammation and neovascularization levels and group type on the 14th day in open wounds( P < .05). On the 21st day, the granulation tissue level in the closed wound group was found to be higher in the pomegranate group ( P = 0.000).The results showed that PSE oil is partially effective, although it is not effective in every parameter examined, in the treatment of excised wounds in rats and may be suitable for clinical treatment in humans but large controlled studies are needed.
A Qualitative Exploration of Pregnancy Experience With a Nutrient-Dense, Plant-Rich Dietary Pattern: A Pilot Study
Authors: McNelly Allison P. , Eaves Emery R. , Christine Gardner Julia , Wetzel Wendy S. , Sutliffe Jay T.
Published: August 2021

Introduction: A nutrient-dense, plant-rich diet may be promising as a nutrition intervention for pregnant women for a number of factors. Factors include the possibility of a decreased risk for gestational diabetes, excess weight gain, and preeclampsia. Little is known about the experience of following this type of dietary pattern while pregnant and what barriers are present that should be addressed in a large-scale intervention. Methods: Qualitative interviews were used to understand the personal experience of women who aimed to eat a nutrient-dense plant-rich diet while pregnant. Semi-structured interviews were conducted from June to August 2020. Results: Three main themes regarding a nutrient-dense plant-rich diet emerged. First, family and social influence played an important role. Second, women who had a previous pregnancy felt they had fewer pregnancy symptoms on this diet. Last, the participants may have experienced a reduced milk supply on this dietary plan. Conclusion: Future research should consider family context as a factor in adherence to a nutrient-dense plant-rich dietary pattern, investigate the possible associations between nutrient-dense plant-rich dietary patterns and reduced nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy, and determine whether nutrient-dense, plant-rich dietary patterns contribute to a reduction in milk production for women who experience over-engorgement.
Gearboxes fault detection under operation varying condition based on MODWPT, Ant colony optimization algorithm and Random Forest classifier
Authors: Ikhlef Boualem , Rahmoune Chemseddine , Toufik Bettahar , Benazzouz Djamel
Published: August 2021

Gearboxes are massively utilized in nowadays industries due to their huge importance in power transmission; hence, their defects can heavily affect the machines performance. Therefore, many researchers are working on gearboxes fault detection and classification. However, most of the works are carried out under constant speed conditions, while gears usually operate under varying speed and torque conditions, making the task more challenging. In this paper, we propose a new method for gearboxes condition monitoring that is efficiently able to reveal the fault from the vibration signatures under varying operating condition. First, the vibration signal is processed with the Maximal Overlap Discrete Wavelet Packet Transform (MODWPT) to extract the AM-FM modes. Next, time domain features are calculated from each mode. Then the features set are reduced using the Ant colony optimization algorithm (ACO) by removing the redundant and unimportant parameters that may mislead the classification. Finally, an ensemble learning algorithm Random Forest (RF) is used to train a model able to classify the fault based on the selected features. The innovative aspect about this method is that, unlike other existing methods, ACO is able to optimize not only the features but also the parameters of the classifier in order to obtain the highest classification accuracy. The proposed method was tested on varying operating condition real dataset consisting of six different gearboxes. In the aim to prove the performance of our method, it had been compared to other conventional methods. The obtained results indicate its robustness, and its accuracy stability to handle the varying operating condition issue in gearboxes fault detection and classification with high efficiency.
Impact of arteriovenous fistulas versus arteriovenous grafts on vascular access performance in haemodialysis patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hajibandeh Shahin , Burton Hannah , Gleed Philippa , Hajibandeh Shahab , Wilmink Teun
Published: August 2021

Background

Controversy exists regarding the best-performing vascular access type for patients undergoing haemodialysis. We aimed to compare outcomes of starting dialysis on arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) versus arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) in haemodialysis patients.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of multiple electronic information sources and bibliographic reference lists. The following outcome parameters were evaluated at 1, 2 and 5 years: primary failure, defined as access never used for dialysis; primary patency, defined as intervention-free access survival; primary-assisted patency, defined as uninterrupted access survival with interventions; and secondary patency, defined as cumulative access survival.

Results

We identified 15 comparative studies reporting a total of 118,434 patients who initiated haemodialysis with AVF ( n = 95,143) or AVG ( n = 23,291). Our analysis demonstrated that AVF was associated with significantly higher primary failure rate (OR: 2.05, p = .0005) but significantly higher rate of primary patency at 1 year (OR: 1.91, p < .00001), at 2 years (OR: 2.52, p < .00001) and at 5 years (OR: 2.59, p < .00001); and primary-assisted patency at 1 year (OR: 1.71, p < .00001), at 2 years (OR: 2.13, p < .00001) and 5 years (OR: 2.79, p < .00001). There was no significant difference in secondary patency at 1 year (OR: 1.08, p < .00001) but AVF had better secondary patency at 2 years (OR: 1.26, p < .00001) and 5 years (OR: 1.60, p < .00001) than AVG.

Conclusions

The meta-analysis of best available comparative evidence (Level 2) demonstrated that AVFs may be associated with significantly higher primary failure rate but higher primary patency, primary-assisted patency and secondary patency at 1, 2 and 5 years compared to AVGs. However, the available evidence is subject to significant selection bias and confounding by indication.
Increasing hand-hygiene compliance in clinical settings using a baby-eyes sticker
Authors: Yang Qian , Sang Tian , Wu Zhihua , Liang Run , Wang Fang , Wang Hua , Xu Xinfen , Zhou Xinyue
Published: August 2021

This double-blind field study tested the effectiveness of a baby-eyes image in promoting healthcare workers’ hand-hygiene compliance in a hospital setting. Adults are inclined to take care of babies and aspire to be their role models; therefore, they should wash their hands thoroughly when being watched by babies. Participants were healthcare workers from the obstetrical and neonatology units of a women’s hospital in Hangzhou. We recorded and coded 3,360 hours and 10,325 hand-hygiene events over a five-week period—from 16 October to 20 November 2018. Three types of stickers, depicting baby eyes, adult eyes, or flowers, were placed above handwashing basins to compare hand-hygiene behavior between the three conditions. Each condition continued for one week, and experimenters interchanged the stickers in each unit to control for the location and sequence effects. Participants in the baby-eyes condition (72.9%) were more likely to use sanitizer than those in the flowers condition (69.4%; χ2 = 9.74, p < .01, φc = 0.034). Moreover, participants in the baby-eyes condition were more likely to use sanitizer than those in the adult-eyes condition (70.8%); however, the difference only trended towards significance ( χ2 = 2.38, p = .066, φc = 0.023). The mean handwashing time between the three conditions was significant (Welch’s F(2, 3488.436) = 3.50, p < .05, η2 = 0.001). Washing time in the baby-eyes condition (17.41 ± 12.02) was significantly longer than in the adult-eyes condition (16.36 ± 11.47; p < .05). The presence of a baby-eyes image promoted hand-hygiene compliance in the hospital environment. This finding can be adopted to change public health behaviors. It also holds theoretical implications that enhance our understanding of how being monitored by children can enhance responsible behaviors.
Current State of Knowledge on the Antioxidant Effects and Mechanisms of Action of Polyphenolic Compounds
Authors: Lv Qi-zhuang , Long Jin-tao , Gong Zi-feng , Nong Ke-yi , Liang Xiao-mei , Qin Ting , Huang Wei , Yang Lei
Published: August 2021

Quality-of-life improvements have resulted in increasing attention being paid to research on antiaging and antioxidation. Polyphenols are natural antioxidants with excellent biological activities, such as antioxidation and scavenging of free radicals and antiviral activity. Abundant availability and low toxicity of polyphenols have attracted the attention of researchers. In this paper, the antioxidant activities of flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes and lignan polyphenols are analyzed, the corresponding antioxidant mechanisms are investigated, and the antioxidant effects of polyphenols are systematically reviewed. Thus, an effective reference based on the recent literature is compiled for the study of the antioxidant mechanisms of polyphenols that provides a significant theoretical basis for the development of products that are components of polyphenols.
The Gender-Equality Paradox and Optimal Distinctiveness: More Gender-Equal Societies Have More Gendered Names
Authors: Vishkin Allon , Slepian Michael L. , Galinsky Adam D.
Published: August 2021

Findings in several domains have documented a gender-equality paradox, where greater social and economic gender equality predicts increased gender differentiation. Many of these findings have used subjective rating scales and thus have been dismissed as artifactual due to different reference groups in more versus less gender-equal societies. Although recent research has documented the gender-equality paradox using an objective criterion—pursuit of degrees in STEM—the robustness of this finding has also been challenged. The current investigation offers evidence for the gender-equality paradox using an objective marker of gender differentiation: baby names. We find given names are more phonetically gendered in more gender-equal societies, with female names being more likely unvoiced (a softer sound) and male names being more likely voiced (a harder sound). We offer a theoretical explanation based on optimal distinctiveness theory to explain why increasing gender equality might motivate a preference for greater gender differentiation.
First pass effect vs multiple passes complete reperfusion: A retrospective study
Authors: Hassan Ameer E , Dibas Mahmoud , Sarraj Amrou , Ghozy Sherief , El-Qushayri Amr Ehab , Dmytriw Adam A , Tekle Wondwossen G
Published: August 2021

Background and purpose

First pass effect (FPE) is defined as achieving modified treatment in cerebral infarction (mTICI) grade 2c/3 reperfusion from the first pass and is associated with more favorable outcomes. We aimed to compare FPE and non-FPE using a large database and further compare first-pass mTICI 2b with multiple passes mTICI 3.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of acute ischemic stroke patients who received mechanical thrombectomy at a high-volume center was performed. Baseline characteristics and outcomes including rates of discharge and 90-day functional independence (modified Rankin Scale ≤2), mortality, symptomatic, and asymptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage were compared.

Results

Of the 637 patients included, 294 achieved FPE; 161 patients had multiple passes mTICI 3 and 36 had first pass mTICI 2b. Propensity-score matching resulted in 211 matched pairs for FPE vs non-FPE, and 30 matched pairs for multiple passes mTICI 3 vs first pass mTICI 2b. The FPE group had significantly more instances of discharge (33.6% vs 19.4%, p = 0.001) and 90-day functional independence (51.7% vs 40.8%, p = 0.032), and lower rates of mortality (18.0% vs 27.5%, p = 0.027) compared to non-FPE. There was no significant difference between first pass mTICI 2b and multiple passes mTICI 3 concerning any studied outcomes.

Conclusions

First pass mTICI 2c/3 is safer and is associated with higher rates of functional independence. We did not observe a significant difference between first pass mTICI 2b and multiple passes mTICI 3. The limitations of this study prevent us from drawing conclusions related to the difference between them and calls for future large-scale studies to explore that further.
Variants of the Circle of Willis as seen on magnetic resonance angiography and carotid siphon calcifications in community-dwelling older adults
Authors: Del Brutto Oscar H , Recalde Bettsy Y. , Mera Robertino M
Published: August 2021

Background and purpose

Information on the association between anatomical variants of the Circle of Willis (CoW) and intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) is limited and results are controversial. In this population-based study, we aimed to assess whether an incomplete CoW is associated with high calcium content in carotid siphons (a reliable biomarker of ICAD) in community-dwelling older adults of Amerindian ancestry.

Methods

Individuals aged ≥60 years enrolled in the Three Villages Study received a head computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA) of intracranial vessels. The CoW was classified in complete or incomplete according to the presence or absence of one A1 segment of the anterior cerebral artery or one or both P1 segments of posterior cerebral arteries. Calcium content in carotid siphons was rated as low or high. A multivariate logistic model was fitted to assess the independent association between incompleteness of the CoW and high calcium content in carotid siphons, after adjusting for demographics and cardiovascular risk factors.

Results

A total of 581 individuals were enrolled (mean age: 71 ± 8.4 years; 57% women). MRA revealed an incomplete CoW in 227 (39%) individuals, and high-resolution CT disclosed high calcium content in carotid siphons in 185 (32%). A risk factor logistic regression model showed no independent association between incompleteness of the CoW and high calcium content in carotid siphons (odds ratio: 0.91; 95% confidence interval: 0.62–1.34; p = 0.631).

Conclusion

Study results disclosed no association between anatomical variants of the CoW and the presence of high calcium content in carotid siphons.
A case of not just Pott’s disease
Authors: Greene William , Prager Martin , Richardson Marlin
Published: August 2021

Spinal tuberculosis (TB) is a rare cause of vertebral osteomyelitis in the developed world. Co-infections with other microorganisms are seldom reported in the literature. Here we report a case of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Streptococcus anginosus causing acute on chronic vertebral osteomyelitis with an epidural abscess.