bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stars on the Verge: From Days to Decades, Studying the Photometric Variations of the Red Supergiant W Persei
Authors: Larsen Conor M. , Guinan Edward F.
Published: October 2022

W Persei is a massive, luminous and large red supergiant located relatively nearby. W Persei is a probable SN-II progenitor. We analyzed ∼120 yr of photometry from the AAVSO database. The analysis was conducted in the period analysis software Peranso where the CLEANest power spectrum and WWZ-wavelet programs were utilized. Two dominant periods of P = 532 ± 68 days and P = 2922 ± 140 days are found. Intermediate and transitory periods are also uncovered along with period events such as a significant increase in the long-period, period-merging and period-splitting. Using Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite observations, stochastic ∼0.3–0.8 mmag light variability on timescales of ∼0.3 day appears present. The physical causes of these variations is discussed.
Characterization of the plastome of Physalis cordata and comparative analysis of eight species of Physalis sensu stricto
Authors: Sandoval-Padilla Isaac , Zamora-Tavares María del Pilar , Ruiz-Sánchez Eduardo , Pérez-Alquicira Jessica , Vargas-Ponce Ofelia
Published: October 2022

In this study, we sequenced, assembled, and annotated the plastome of Physalis cordata Mill. and compared it with seven species of the genus Physalissensu stricto. Sequencing, annotating, and comparing plastomes allow us to understand the evolutionary mechanisms associated with physiological functions, select possible molecular markers, and identify the types of selection that have acted in different regions of the genome. The plastome of P. cordata is 157,000 bp long and presents the typical quadripartite structure with a large single-copy (LSC) region of 87,267 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,501 bp, which are separated by two inverted repeat (IRs) regions of 25,616 bp each. These values are similar to those found in the other species, except for P. angulata L. and P. pruinosa L., which presented an expansion of the LSC region and a contraction of the IR regions. The plastome in all Physalis species studied shows variation in the boundary of the regions with three distinct types, the percentage of the sequence identity between coding and non-coding regions, and the number of repetitive regions and microsatellites. Four genes and 10 intergenic regions show promise as molecular markers and eight genes were under positive selection. The maximum likelihood analysis showed that the plastome is a good source of information for phylogenetic inference in the genus, given the high support values and absence of polytomies. In the Physalis plastomes analyzed here, the differences found, the positive selection of genes, and the phylogenetic relationships do not show trends that correspond to the biological or ecological characteristics of the species studied.
Molecular mechanisms of myocardial damage in the hypertensive rats and hypertensive rats with metabolic disorders (diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis)
Authors: Belenichev Igor F. , Abramov Andrii V. , Puzyrenko Andrii , Bukhtiyarova Nina V. , Gorchakova Nadiia O. , Bak Pavlo G.
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Despite the success which was achieved in the treatment of arterial hypertension, for optimization of the treatment, it is necessary to study the pathogenesis of primary arterial hypertension and target organ damage on the molecular level.

Materials and methods: Our team studied the molecular mechanisms of myocardial damage during arterial hypertension and metabolic disorders. We used the spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) as an experimental model, and, additionally, we modeled diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis in these rats.

Results and discussion: Our study obtained evidence of a much higher level of the energy imbalance in the cardiomyocytes and more intensive production of reactive oxygen species in the SHRs with diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis compared with the healthy animals and the animals with only hypertension. The indicated defections create an environment for further cellular damage – mitochondrial dysfunction, depletion in the thiol-disulfide system, and formation of highly reactive NO products. At the same time, we have noticed a higher activity of the Hsp70 in the hypertensive groups compared with the normotensive animals. The source of these deviations is in the formation of mitochondrial dysfunction of cardiocytes, the cause of which is oxidative modification of the protein structures of mitochondria under conditions of activation of oxidative stress reactions, insufficiency of mPT pores, and impaired mitochondrial chaperone function. The presented data give reason to believe that mitochondrial dysfunction, which develops against the background of deficient HSP70, is an integral aspect of arterial hypertension, contributes to its aggravation, and triggers a cascade of molecular and biochemical mechanisms of myocardial damage. These mechanisms include disturbances in the L-arginine-NO-synthase-NO system, production of mitochondrial iNOS oxygen radicals, neutralization of the vasorelaxant effect of NO and its transformation into an active participant in nitrous stress due to reduced intermediates of the thiol-disulfide system. The question of cause-and-effect relationships of oxidative stress remains open for discussion.

Conclusion: We envisage that studies in this direction may lead to a better insight into a pathogenetic therapy of essential hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and atherosclerosis.

Graphical abstract:
A DNA barcode library for katydids, cave crickets, and leaf-rolling crickets (Tettigoniidae, Rhaphidophoridae and Gryllacrididae) from Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Zhao Yizheng , Wang Hui , Huang Huimin , Zhou Zhijun
Published: October 2022

Barcode libraries are generally assembled with two main objectives in mind: specimen identification and species discovery/delimitation. In this study, the standard COI barcode region was sequenced from 681 specimens belonging to katydids (Tettigoniidae), cave crickets (Rhaphidophoridae), and leaf-rolling crickets (Gryllacrididae) from Zhejiang Province, China. Of these, four COI-5P sequences were excluded from subsequent analyses because they were likely NUMTs (nuclear mitochondrial pseudogenes). The final dataset consisted of 677 barcode sequences representing 90 putative species-level taxa. Automated cluster delineation using the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD) revealed 118 BINs (Barcodes Index Numbers). Among these 90 species-level taxa, 68 corresponded with morphospecies, while the remaining 22 were identified based on reverse taxonomy using BIN assignment. Thirteen of these morphospecies were represented by a single barcode (so-called singletons), and each of 19 morphospecies were split into more than one BIN. The consensus delimitation scheme yielded 55 Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs). Only four morphospecies (Imax > DNN) failed to be recovered as monophyletic clades (i.e., Elimaea terminalis, Phyllomimus klapperichi, Sinochlora szechwanensis and Xizicus howardi), so it is speculated that these may be species complexes. Therefore, the diversity of katydids, cave crickets, and leaf-rolling crickets in Zhejiang Province is probably slightly higher than what current taxonomy would suggest.
From the Ashes of the Old: Anarchism Reborn in a Counterrevolutionary Age (1970s-1990s)
Authors: Beswick Spencer
Published: October 2022

After almost a century of Marxist predominance, how did anarchism develop from a marginal phenomenon into a force at the centre of the anti-globalisation movement? This article explores how anarchism was reborn in a counterrevolutionary age. Part one investigates how the New Right's
post-1960s counterrevolution defeated the New Left and remade US society, including by recuperating potentially liberatory elements of social movements. Part two examines how a new generation of radicals critiqued the failures of MarxismLeninism and popularised the anarchist analysis and principles
that provided the foundation for the anti-globalisation movement. The article discusses five examples of the development of anarchist theory and practice: Black/New Afrikan Anarchism, anarcha-feminism, eco-anarchism, punk anarchism, and revolutionary social anarchism. Ultimately, the article
argues that anarchism was revitalised in the late twentieth century because it provided compelling answers to the new problems posed by the neoliberal counterrevolution and the crisis of state socialism.
Diagnostic Reasoning Outcomes in Nurse Practitioner Education: A Scoping Review
Authors: Griffith Patricia B. , Mariani Bette , Kelly Michelle M.
Published: October 2022

Background:

Diagnostic reasoning is the process of collecting, considering, and analyzing information to determine a diagnosis. Educational strategies that structure diagnostic reasoning exposure, experience, and evaluation are hypothesized to improve diagnostic safety. However, few studies measure diagnostic reasoning outcomes in nurse practitioner education. This review sought to identify the educational interventions intended to improve diagnostic reasoning competency, determine which components of reasoning are evaluated, and examine how they are measured.

Method:

Four databases were searched, and 12 studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria.

Results:

Simulation was the most common intervention. The most frequently measured diagnostic reasoning components were information gathering, differential diagnosis, and leading diagnosis. Checklists and patient management problems were the most used assessment method.

Conclusion:

More studies are needed to assess the reasoning processes of hypothesis generation, problem representation, and diagnostic justification. Within simulation, methods capable of capturing these components include think-aloud, global assessments, checklists, and note evaluation.

[
J Nurs Educ
. 2022;61(10):579–586.]
Self-Management and Its Influential Factors Among Individuals With Anxiety Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ge Ruyu , Feng Chi , Cao Xinyu , Li Xiaolin
Published: October 2022

Self-management has been proposed as a crucial pathway to recovery from mental disorders. The aim of the current study was to explore self-management and its influential factors among individuals with anxiety disorders. Data were from a cross-sectional survey of 180 individuals diagnosed with anxiety disorders. Sociodemographic characteristics, anxiety, self-management, and social support were investigated and analyzed. Participants' mean self-management score was 79.04, with a score rate of 63%. Economic burden, number of relapses, and anxiety severity significantly influenced self-management among participants. Increased social support was correlated with greater self-management. Mental health nursing services should be directed toward individuals with anxiety disorders. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 61
(4), 27–35.]
Warning Signs of Acute Infectious Disease–Related Illness in Persons Living With Dementia: Perspectives of Primary Care Providers, Adult Day Service Center Staff, and Family Care Partners
Authors: Omeally-Soto Shanique , Zhong Jie , Boafo Jonelle , Wu Bei , Brody Abraham A. , Riffin Catherine , Sadarangani Tina R.
Published: October 2022

In the current study, we conducted one-on-one interviews with primary care providers (PCPs) and family care partners (FCPs) and held focus groups with interdisciplinary adult day service center (ADSC) staff to understand the perspectives of care providers across community settings regarding early warning signs of acute illnesses in persons living with dementia (PLWD). We used content analysis to analyze qualitative data. Warning signs of acute illnesses in PLWD fell into one of five categories, including new onset changes in (a) physical functions, (b) moods or behaviors (psychological), (c) social interactions, (d) speech, or (e) appearance. FCPs (
n
= 11) focused on physical changes, whereas ADSC staff (
n
= 33) emphasized changes in speech and social interactions in addition to the other categories. Although ADSC staff and PCPs (
n
= 22) focused on changes in functions and moods, each group described these changes differently. ADSC staff possess rich information that can be used to identify acute changes in PLWD and describe a broader range of warning signs compared to PCPs and FCPs. FCPs may benefit from further training in distinguishing between normal disease progression and acute illness. Future research should focus on the implementation of standardized tools across community-based care providers to simplify the identification and reporting of early warning signs in PLWD. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 61
(5), 35–43.]
Goya dans les musées de Saragosse (Espagne) : contributions analytiques non invasives à l’étude de l’œuvre du peintre
Authors: Pérez-Arantegui Josefina
Published: October 2022

Les musées de Saragosse, en Espagne, conservent des peintures de Francisco de Goya suffisamment significatives pour permettre de mieux connaître son œuvre et d’approfondir son emploi des matériaux picturaux. Une recherche menée sur plusieurs tableaux a été développée, principalement avec une méthodologie analytique non invasive fondée sur l’imagerie hyperspectrale, combinée avec d’autres techniques telles que la spectroscopie Raman et la fluorescence de rayons X. Des pigments à base de blanc de plomb, noir de carbone, jaune de Naples, ocre jaune, orpiment, terre de Sienne, bleu de Prusse, vermillon, ocres rouge et marron ont été identifiés comme faisant partie de sa palette.
Goya’s Portrait of Francisco de Saavedra: materials, techniques, conservation and context
Authors: Burnstock Aviva , Cross Maureen , Serres Karen
Published: October 2022

This paper discusses the technical study and conservation treatment of The Courtauld Gallery’s Portrait of Francisco de Saavedra, painted in 1798 by Francisco de Goya, in relation to its possible pendant, the Portrait of Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos, painted the same year and now at the Museo Nacional del Prado, Madrid. Similarities in the materials and techniques used for the portraits and differences in their appearance due to material changes, as well as the condition of the paintings, are also considered.
Étude de deux petits panneaux de l’entourage de Goya : mise en lumière de pratiques d’atelier
Authors: Ravaud Élisabeth
Published: October 2022

L’étude technique de deux petits panneaux de l’entourage de Goya, le Christ au mont des Oliviers (Paris, musée du Louvre) et la Dernière communion de san José de Calasanz (Bayonne, musée Bonnat-Helleu) a permis de mettre en évidence des pratiques communes d’atelier portant tant sur le support et la préparation que sur le mode de cadrage. Elles éclairent la pratique de l’atelier de Goya vers 1819.
The Rise of the Stress Arc
Authors: Luster Rodney James
Published: October 2022

To date, in the United States, and across the world, business leaders and their respective employees continue to struggle against the scope of pernicious disaster phenomena and invasive “black swan” events that have not only impacted their physical lives, but also their psychological health. This chapter looks at efficacious practices borrowed from the discipline of psychology and preventative programming measures from the world of healthcare which continuously practices for a variety of crisis-scale situations. As well, research herein will help deepen the understanding of VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) environments and the torrential onslaught of rapid onset of change (ROC) circumstances that often accompany crisis situations. The primary focus regards the Stress Arc as a tool with tremendous prospects for helping reorient leaders and employees during crises. And finally, a look at PPEs (psychological performance enhancement) and how they may shape the future when it comes to a crisis.
Resilience of Small and Medium-Sized Shipping Companies in Turbulent Times
Authors: Akgul Ersin Firat , Solak Fiskin Cemile , Cetin İsmail Bilge
Published: October 2022

The ability of companies in the shipping industry, which is subject to ups and downs throughout history, to survive and continue their activities depends on applying the right response strategies at the right time especially during periods of economic recession. This study aims to determine which strategies small and medium-sized enterprises in the dry cargo shipping industry use the most in such turbulent times in the light of a resource-based perspective. The current study identifies response strategies through literature review and interviews with subject experts. Afterward, an integrated AHP and TOPSIS approach is used. Strategies such as debt restructuring, reducing fuel consumption and procurement costs, focusing on marketing activities, and reducing crewing costs have been highlighted as the most used response strategies. Sub-strategies were determined within the scope of each strategy and ranked according to their importance. This study mainly contributes to resilience literature by identifying and ranking response strategies in dry bulk shipping to make accurate decisions.
Women Family Demographics and Work-Life Balance
Authors: Joseph Joshin , Gillariose Jiju
Published: October 2022

The study examined the relationship that the family related characteristics have on women employee work-life balance (WLB) level, with the help of 316 sample data obtained from women who were working in the state of Kerala under three sectors (i.e., banks, educational institutions, and business process outsourcing [BPO]) during the period 1st January 2020 to 28th March 2020. The family-related characteristics of the respondents were assessed on the basis of seven variables (i.e., marital status, spouse status of work, kid's status, kid's number, family strength, family structure, and employee status) of care responsibility. The analysis reveals that the care responsibility is the only family related variable that has significant influence on women employee WLB level. Furthermore, the family-related variables considered in the study all together only have the potential to explain six percent of variance in women employee WLB levels, further validating the small effect that the family demographic characteristics have on WLB levels.
E-Commerce Capabilities and Organizational Agility
Authors: Hachicha Zouhour Smaoui , Bouaziz Fatma
Published: October 2022

This research aims to explore the relationship between e-commerce capabilities and organizational agility of Tunisian firms facing the COVID-19 crisis. A qualitative research methodology is adopted. Data were collected through interviews with respondents in three company cases based on an interview guide elaborated from previous literature. They were analyzed through content analysis method. The results show that the studied firms were able to ensure greater responsiveness to customers' needs, operational flexibility, and strategic flexibility thanks to the e-commerce capabilities they already possess and that they have mobilized during the crisis. Findings have also shown that e-commerce management capability was the most influential whereas the talent capability and technical capability have exerted less influence. This research contributes to a better understanding of the relation between e-commerce capabilities and organizational agility that is still unsufficiently clear in a context of unique and unprecedented environmental uncertainty resulting from the COVID-19 crisis.
Resurgence of Crowdfunding During the Corona Pandemic
Authors: Leeson Shini , Kovid Raj K.
Published: October 2022

COVID-19 led to catastrophic impacts on almost all aspects of human lives, national economies, and international trade. However, the crisis is also known for giving rise to innovations. The emergent trends indicate growing importance for crowdfunding initiatives as traditional financial institutions are increasingly encountering economic hurdles. Crowdfunding is a popular model to raise small-sized investments or donations from a larger set of contributors to support for-profit or non-profit ventures, social causes, or medical needs. This chapter argues and confirms that crowdfunding has been a resilient tool to generate financial resources during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. It offers convenience, speed, accessibility, and support for local needs and local businesses thereby making it more attractive. To understand the finer nuances of the role of crowdfunding in the COVID-19 era, this chapter analyses one of the largest crowdfunding platforms in India, Milaap, the first Indian crowdfunding platform to initiate pandemic-support fundraising campaigns.
Determinants of Teleworking Continuance Intention in a Pandemic Context
Authors: Bouaziz Fatma , Haddar Houneida
Published: October 2022

The spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated home confinement restrictions have prompted companies to start or increase working from home. With the gradual deconfinement, the question arises whether companies wish to perpetuate this practice, which has been irregular since the start of the crisis. Thus, this chapter aims to explore the determinants of teleworking adoption during COVID-19 pandemic and the intentions of Tunisian companies to continue following the relaxation of policies. An empirical investigation through qualitative research was conducted. The results show that managers of the companies surveyed expressed satisfaction and intend to continue teleworking adoption in light of better organization/regularization of this practice. This intention can be determined by several factors, which are grouped into five categories: individual characteristics, job characteristics, technological factors, organizational factors, and environmental factors.
Leading Universities Entrepreneurially Post COVID-19
Authors: Azeez Rasheed O. , Aliu Fatimo
Published: October 2022

This chapter interrogated issues that surround how universities can be led entrepreneurially, most especially in a post-COVID-19 economy. It articulates the fact that the pandemic has dealt a big blow to universities' sources of finance. Also, it stresses the fact that employees of these universities are capable of initiating creative ways to make the universities achieve their core and periphery activities. Additionally, it advanced the fact that the entrepreneurial behaviours of university leaders are more needed to foster creativity and innovation, and to help the university adapt quickly and fluidly to the changing milieus. It appraised the concepts of entrepreneurial leadership and creativity, and also advanced several implementation guidelines for fostering creativity among employees in order to create entrepreneurial universities. This chapter concluded that 21st century universities have to be led entrepreneurially in order to achieve their periphery and core objectives.
The Cohesive Factors in Building Resilience and Team Dynamism in a Turbulent Era
Authors: Luster Rodney James , Daniels Elvire , More Stephen , Morales Alana
Published: October 2022

The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on industry have also tested leaders and their organizations to explore the potentials of sustainability amidst such impacting conditions. Amidst this flurry of responsivity, a focus on protecting human capital and building resilience has emerged as a primary linchpin for continuity. Exploring the dynamics of authentic leaders and their processes for team development, alongside the pivotal role of teams in “knowledge organizations,” current effective business practices may provide insight into resilience-building for many more organizations. The focus of this contributive chapter is to examine organizational leadership and its important role in defining enhanced employee resilience practices during a turbulent era, with a closer look at the “cohesive factors” of durability and resilience as determinants of high-functioning teams and organizations.
Facebook Page as a Digital Pedagogical Tool in the Business Studies Class
Authors: Meintjes Helgaardt Hannes , van Wyk Micheal M
Published: October 2022

Web 2.0 technologies and electronic teaching aids can be used to greatly advance the transmission of knowledge in the school setting. However, the investigation at hand attempted to go a step further by showing the potential benefits of incorporating the Grade 12 Business Studies curriculum into a Facebook page as a digital pedagogical tool to enhance learners' subject knowledge competence and academic performance. An exploratory mixed method research design was adopted. The data was collected using a specifically created Facebook page and an online open-ended questionnaire. Findings revealed the success of the intervention as a supportive teaching strategy and it is suggested that Business Studies teachers should be empowered through receiving training on the use of social media tools in their occupation. Further research is needed across other grade levels or at the same grade level but at other schools to gain an enhanced understanding of learners' responses to Facebook as a supportive teaching tool.
Responding to Contemporary Needs of Learning Communities Through Utilizing Emerging Social Networking Tools
Authors: Demir Elif Buğra Kuzu , Akbulut Yavuz
Published: October 2022

This chapter aims to understand the nature of the learning processes of students who resorted to social networking sites (SNSs) during instructional activities. Throughout the research, a blended learning environment (BLE) involving both SNSs and face-to-face activities was utilized. Frequently used SNSs such as Google+, Twitter, Facebook, and Tumblr were used in accordance with the preferences of the students. Through synchronous, asynchronous, and multimedia supported affordances of SNSs, it was aimed to improve the learning experiences of the students. Explorations revealed that affordances of different SNSs facilitated students' customization of the tools in the BLE for relevant purposes throughout the course. Participants mentioned that they were satisfied with the course, expressed their intention to use contemporary SNSs for their own instructional activities, appreciated the free and flexible learning atmosphere provided by the BLE, and underlined the importance of communication and sharing opportunities among all stakeholders in the classroom.
Utilizing Social Networking Sites for Communication in Higher Education
Authors: Whitehurst Jodi , Vander Putten Jim
Published: October 2022

This chapter first analyzes the need for communication and collaboration tools to connect units of higher education. It then examines a popular social networking site, Facebook, as a possible platform of communication. This chapter also discusses findings from a phenomenological study that explored rhetorical roles employed by participants on Facebook and then connects findings to current research concerning communication and collaboration in higher education. Data indicated that messages on Facebook were used for cooperation and coordination, but not necessarily collaboration. It also indicated that while participants were audience-minded, they were not necessarily audience-aware, and participants used audience shaping as a coping mechanism. Finally, composers' inclinations to exercise authority over their personal, representational space (Facebook wall) led the researchers to conclude that use of Facebook in higher education may best be achieved by creating a Facebook page or group for specific communicative purposes.
The Usage of Social Networking Sites for Informal Learning
Authors: Ng Lay Shi , Thang Siew Ming , Noor Noorizah Mohd.
Published: October 2022

Nowadays, social networking sites (SNSs) on the Internet are increasingly being utilised as a learning tool for study and school-related issues. In Malaysia, most public schools do not allow students to bring their cell phones to school. Hence, learning activities involving SNSs can only be carried out after school hours. This article will refer to learning that takes place outside the school environment as “informal learning” as these activities are unstructured and are not undertaken in a formal educational setting. Through a questionnaire, the present study investigated the perceptions of 799 secondary-school Malaysian secondary school students towards the using of the SNSs for informal learning purposes. Data was analysed quantitatively and comparisons across gender and age were made. The findings revealed that Malaysian students have generally accepted the SNSs as an alternative learning environment with evidence showing that the difference in usage between gender is significant to a certain extent and less so for age.
Educação, escola e esfera pública em Jürgen Oelkers
Authors: Dalbosco Claudio Almir , Neitzel Odair
Published: October 2022

O texto que segue divide-se em duas partes, possuindo como núcleo central a entrevista com o prof. Jürgen Oelkers, pedagogo alemão e professor emérito da Universidade de Zurique, Suíça. Com o intuito de contextualizar o leitor, a primeira parte descortina visão panorâmica resumida do cenário educacional mundial, destacando o neoconservadorismo autoritário e obscurantista que constitui fonte de preocupação da cultura, ciência e educação e, precisamente por isso, tornando-se objeto da pesquisa educacional crítica. Também busca inserir brevemente a o pensamento pedagógico de Oelkers neste contexto. A segunda parte apresenta em detalhes a entrevista concedida pelo referido professor, mostrando o núcleo temático de suas pesquisas educacionais, seu diálogo permanente com autores clássicos como Jean-Jacques Rousseau e John Dewey e sua firme defesa a favor do papel da educação pública no fortalecimento democrático da esfera pública. Ao reatualizar o nexo estreito entre educação e democracia pensado por John Dewey no século passado, procurando vertê-lo contra formas dogmáticas e autoritárias da educação e da política, Jürgen Oelkers oferece ferramentas conceituais importantes para pensar o autoritarismo obscurantista que toma conta do cenário político e educacional brasileiro. Por fim, o texto como um todo deixa a entender o quanto a reconstrução crítica da tradição educacional democrática é indispensável à formação cultural ampliada das novas gerações
Reversal of Neuromuscular Blockade Based on Train of Four Response: a Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kalburgi Spurti , Krishna Handattu Mahabaleswara , Pillai Ajith kumar
Published: October 2022

Background and aims: Use of neostigmine to reverse the non-depoloarizing neuromuscular block at the end of the surgery is a standard practice. Reversal with neostigmine based on body weight is still commonly followed. However, neostigmine may affect adversely if used empirically in the absence of residual blockade. This study compares the empirical technique of reversal based on body weight with reversal using neostigmine dose adjusted to train-of-four (TOF) response.
Methods: This prospective, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial included 126 patients undergoing surgery under general anaesthesia, lasting for >1 hour. They were randomized into group control receiving weight based reversal (0.05 mg/kg neostigmine) and group study receiving dose determined by TOF response. Signs of residual paralysis after extubation were observed. TOF ratios/count, reversal to extubation time, dose and side-effects of reversal agent were also noted.
Results: Patient characteristics were comparable in both groups. Number of patients with signs of residual weakness was less in group study (26/63), but comparable to group control (40/63, p=0.094). Number of patients with TOF≥0.9 at reversal and extubation was significantly high in group study (40/63) than group control (22/63), and number of patients with TOF count <4 were significantly high in group control than group study (17/63 vs 8/63). Overall TOF ratio at reversal and extubation, reversal-extubation time, time taken to reach TOF 0.9 and side-effects were comparable.
Conclusion: Reversal of neuromuscular block with neostigmine dose based on TOF ratio is comparable to weight based reversal with respect to postoperative residual weakness, reversal-extubation time and side effects of reversal agent.
Comparative Study of Hematological Parameters of Covid Positive Patients In ICU Requiring Oxygen With or Without Ventilatory Support
Authors: Salian Sushmitha , D'Cunha Rithesh J. , Fernandes Shannon F. , Gurumurthy T.
Published: October 2022

Background and aims:The ongoing Covid pandemic has burdened the medical system, more so due to the limited availability of ventilators. Our study aims at identifying the role of hematological markers in the risk stratification and the need for ventilator support among ICU admitted COVID-19 patients.
Methods: A single centre prospective study was conducted on 100 Covid positive patients admitted in the ICU to determine association between the haematological markers such asHb, Platelet count, Total and Differential leukocyte count, CRP, AST, ALT, LDH, Ferritin and D-Dimer with the need for oxygen therapy with or without invasive ventilatory support. Comparative analysis was performed between the 2 groups.
Results: Neutrophilia, a mean of 76.7% among those ventilated and 71.6% among those non ventilated (p value 0.002; highly significant) and Lymphocytopenia (p value 0.004) with a mean of 14% and 18.6% respectively was noted.  Hemoglobin levels were lower in ventilated (mean 11.6g/dl) as against those non ventilated (mean 12.58%) p value 0.046 which was significant. D-dimer was increased in COVID-19 patients; mean 5380 ng/ml in ventilated patients and mean 949ng/ml in those non ventilated (P < 0.001 highly significant). Elevated D-dimer and presence of diabetes correlated with increased chances of mechanical ventilation, while higher hemoglobin levels and associated COPD have a negative association with the need of mechanical ventilation.
Conclusion: Hypercoagulability along with neutrophilia and lymphocytopenia can be used as positive associations for the need for invasive mechanical ventilation.
Anaesthetic Management of Total Thyroidectomy in a Patient with Spinal Cord Compression due to Metastatic Follicular Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Siriwardane A. , Wijesuriya N.
Published: October 2022

Vascular invasion is characteristic for follicular carcinoma of the thyroid and distant metastasis is common. Spinal cord compression due to metastases of differentiated thyroid carcinoma as the initial presentation is an extremely rare condition. We report a case of asymptomatic metastatic thyroid cancer which presented with spinal cord compression. This patient with metastasized follicular carcinoma of the thyroid to the spinal cord and narrowing of the airway posed many challenges to the anesthetist.
Sinus Bradycardia and Hypotension Following Reconstructive Hemi Mandibulectomy. Unusual Complication of Orofacial Reconstructive Surgery
Authors: Nagarajah Tharanitharan
Published: October 2022

Postoperative complications following pectoralis major myocutaneous flap in orofacial reconstruction are a well-known entity.  Still, literature search didn’t reveal sinus bradycardia as one of those post-operative complications. One of our patients, a 63-year-old gentleman with squamous cell carcinoma in the right cheek, who underwent wide local excision with right side hemi-mandibulectomy and pectoralis major myocutaneous flap reconstruction, developed symptomatic sinus bradycardia and hypotension as a postoperative complication. Initially there was a struggle to find out the underlying cause but later, carotid sinus hypersensitivity was suspected as a probable cause. Ultimately, it was alleviated by a debulking surgery to reduce the pressure in the neck.
Cardiac Arrests and Outcomes at Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Sri Lanka
Authors: Jayasekera M. M. P. T. , Dasanayake G. K. G. , Bandara P. M. K. , Vithanage W. S. A.
Published: October 2022

Background: Witnessed cardiac arrest is a common occurrence in an A&E department. The reported incidence of witnessed cardiac arrest is variable around the world. Overall unadjusted survival to hospital discharge rate was 18.4%.
Objective: To assess the aetiology, factors associated in outcomes of witnessed cardiac arrests, and the rate of occurrence of cardiac arrest at the A&E of Provincial General Hospital Kurunegala (PGHK).
Methods: This descriptive study was conducted between January1, 2016, to December 31, 2016 (one year) at the A&E department of PGHK. Survivors were followed up on for a one-year period.
Results: There were 123 witnessed cardiac arrests (mean age 64 (+/- 15.9) years, 64% male), out of which 25 patients were successfully resuscitated {return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC)} and transferred to intensive care units for further care. However, only 6 (4.9%) patients were discharged from the hospital. The three-month and one-year survival numbers were 6 (4.9%) (males: 4, females: 2) and 4 (3.3%) (males: 3, female: 1) respectively. The age of the female survivor after one year was 43 years and the ages of the three male survivors were 46, 54, and 55 years respectively. The most common aetiology for cardiac arrest was myocardial infarction (43.1%) while the most common initial rhythm was non-shockable (82%). The initial rhythm was shockable in all 6 survivors.
Conclusion: The overall ratio of survival to discharge was much lower in comparison to international figures. The poor survival rate in our study may be due a very high rate of cardiac arrests with initial non-shockable rhythms.
A field guide to the fishes in freshwaters of Sri Lanka
Authors: Amarasinghe Upali S.
Published: October 2022

No abstract available
New Targeted Therapy for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Chung Eun Ki , Yong Seung Hyun , Lee Eun Hye , Kim Eun Young , Chang Yoon Soo , Lee Sang Hoon
Published: October 2022

Lung cancer ranks first in cancer mortality in Korea and cancer incidence in Korean men. More than half of Korean lung cancer patients undergo chemotherapy, including adjuvant therapy. Cytotoxic agents, targeted therapy, and immune checkpoint inhibitors are used in chemotherapy according to the biopsy and genetic test results. Among chemotherapy, the one that has developed rapidly is targeted therapy. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines have been updated recently for targeted therapy of multiple gene mutations, and targeted therapy is used not only for chemotherapy but also for adjuvant therapy. While previously targeted therapies have been developed for common genetic mutations, recently targeted therapies have been developed to overcome uncommon mutations or drug resistance that have occurred since previous targeted therapy. Therefore, this study describes recent, rapidly developing targeted therapies.
Factors in and Barriers to Engagement and Service Within Athletic Training Association Leadership
Authors: Wise Stephanie L. , Payne Ellen K.
Published: October 2022

Context

Leadership skills are important for all athletic trainers whether or not they hold formal leadership positions. Active engagement by members within professional associations can enhance individuals' leadership skills and aid the growth of the profession.

Objective

Understand common factors in and barriers to athletic trainers' involvement in leadership positions within their state's athletic training association.

Design

Qualitative – Grounded theory.

Setting

Zoom interview.

Patients or Other Participants

A purposeful sampling was performed. Inclusion criteria were met if participants were certified for 5+ years and currently serving on the executive board of their state athletic training association. Fifteen athletic trainers (age = 42.7 ± 7.8 years), predominantly men (73%), were included in this study. Data saturation guided the total number of participants selected.

Data Collection and Analysis

Semistructured interviews were performed using Zoom and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis. Transcripts were coded and grouped by themes and subthemes. To maintain trustworthiness, peer review and member checks were performed.

Results

Participants were primarily motivated to seek out leadership opportunities in their state association to get involved within the profession. They also received encouragement from influential individuals who helped the participants see their abilities to impact others. The main barrier participants identified was fear. Fear encompassed many aspects, including ambiguity surrounding their role, as they were unsure of their full responsibilities or how to perform the role successfully. Other barriers included time commitment and self-doubt.

Conclusions

Participants' desire to get involved and the encouragement they received helped to increase confidence in their abilities to lead and contributed to their involvement in their state association. By encouraging colleagues, coworkers, and mentees to get involved, as well as by athletic training associations implementing a transition period for newly elected leaders to learn their responsibilities, many barriers athletic trainers identified can be reduced.
Objective Determination of Degradation of Lambda Sensor Using Recursive Least Square Method
Authors: Mandloi Deepak , TAN SHAUN , Das Himadri
Published: October 2022

The closed loop air fuel ratio control is one of the essential algorithm to control emissions in internal combustion engine-based vehicle fleets. In order to address this, system and component level diagnostics need to explore extensively. In the presented work, a data-driven method is proposed and implemented to monitor the health of switch type oxygen sensor (lambda sensor). As the response of the lambda sensor present in a vehicle varies over the mile-age which will directly affect the tailpipe emission of the vehicle. Lambda sensor monitoring is the key challenge in OBD-II regulations. A simplified linear model for lambda sensor is derived which includes the lambda sensor gain KL. The recursive least square estimation algorithm is employed to search the value of the lambda sensor gain KL for which the model can estimate the lambda sensor output signal. The lambda gain has the correlation with state of health of the lambda sensor. That will be used as an index for age monitoring of the sensor. Proposed algorithm is tested and validated for real city drive condition data set and the results show that the gain KL converges at different values for different sensor responses. This is an ECU implementable method for real time estimation of sensor gain KL which lead us to objective determination of degradation in lambda sensor. The estimated value of KL is validated with three differently aged lambda sensors and mapped to objectively diagnose the health of the sensor.
Effect of Initial Assembly Gaps on Thread Strip and Fatigue Assessment of Bolted Joint
Authors: Kar Tanumoy , Shaikh Rahil , Singh Punit , Verma Avinash
Published: October 2022

Bolted joint is a popular method for assembly of mechanical systems which are typically designed by considering members to be in full contact without initial gap. However, manufacturing imperfections or part tolerances can introduce gaps between members. This initial gap is proven to have an adverse effect on the performance of bolted connection. The gap introduces additional bending moments (B.M.) during tightening operation and affects the loads shared by the threads thereby aggravating thread strip and fatigue performance. The aim of this paper is to provide a robust approach for predicting this premature failure of bolted joint due to initial gaps in assembly. VDI 2230 industry guideline for fastener assessment does not account for bending effect due to initial gap. To address this limitation, a “Coupled Analytical and FEA based” approach is developed to accurately capture initial bending moment and its effect on distribution of loads between the engaged threads. Results with initial gap show that there is a significant non-uniform distribution of shear forces on engaged threads, which reduces safety margins by 50% when compared with no-gap condition. The proposed approach was validated with experimental results on a sub-assembly of power electronic device. The authors expect this body of work will enable the readers to identify and mitigate the risk of bolted joint failure in compact assemblies like those in powder-dense EV and allied applications where initial gap in assembly is possible due to presence of multiple part tolerances (e.g., Choke, PCB, housing standoff etc.) and threads are present in soft material (e.g., copper busbar). Also, gap closure with sufficient clamping is desired for low contact resistance and high electrical performance.
An Auto-Encoder Based TinyML Approach for Real-Time Anomaly Detection
Authors: Sai Charan Kovuru
Published: October 2022

Condition monitoring plays a crucial role in the automotive space because they reduce the downtime and maintenance costs by preventing sudden catastrophic breakdown of vehicles. Condition monitoring solutions primarily monitor onboard sensor data to detect anomalies. However, with vehicles becoming more complex each day, the number of sensors to be monitored is also growing. This increases the data volume to be processed to make decisions. It is not feasible to send all the embedded sensor data captured to the cloud for processing. The network bandwidth, latency for transferring the data and finally the cost associated with data transfer are the factors which impede us from taking this approach. Much of the previous work done to address these issues has proposed Deep Learning driven onboard anomaly detection approaches. The deployment of these implementations requires power hungry and costly hardware with high computational resources. The recent advances in the field of Tiny Machine Learning have made it possible to design and deploy Deep Neural Networks on resource constrained low-cost embedded hardware. In this paper, we propose an Auto-Encoder based approach for anomaly detection in time-series vibration sensor data. The designed Auto-Encoder model has a 7.5 KB footprint and was finally deployed on a highly resource constrained ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller with 256KB of SRAM and 1MB Flash. The model has been validated on the previous machine data. It has achieved an accuracy and precision close to 80%. Currently, by using post training quantization we are trading-off model accuracy for a reduction in model size. In future, we plan to use Quantization Aware Training which will help us in achieving even higher model accuracy.
Kernel morphometric characteristics and oil content among Shea tree genotypes in Uganda
Authors: Odoi J.B. , Okia C.A. , Gwali S. , Odong T.L. , Agaba H. , Okullo J.B.L.
Published: October 2022

Shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa subsp. nilotica) is an important commercial tree for domestic oil and industrial products of cosmetics, chocolate and other confectionaries traded grown worldwide. We studied seed morphometric characteristics and crude oil content of Shea nuts in Uganda. Five populations, comprising of 16 ethnovarieties, were selected from Eastern, Northern and West Nile Sub-regions of Uganda, based on their attributes as judged by the farmers. Fresh kernel weight ranged from 2 to 18.85 mg per seed. Kernel weight increased with Shea fruit weight (y = 0.1499x + 6.1887, R² = 0.306). Moyo district had the highest oil content (54.37 ± 0.32%); while Amuru district had the lowest oil content (50.5 ± 1.32%). Oil content decreased with increasing kernel size (y = -0.4541x + 57.303, R² = 0.2116) and dry matter content (y = 0.635x - 9.863, R²= 0.011); and varied between ethnovarieties and Shea tree populations, p = 0.003 and P< 0.001, respectively. Tinny seeded (45.7 - 65.49%), Round fruited (45.41 - 65.91%), Dwarf tree (45.19 - 64.19%), Elliptical fruited (45.32 - 64.19%) and Soft pulped (42.16 - 69.77%) ethnovarieties had the highest oil content. Narrow sense heritability (h2) for oil yield was 1.72; while response to selection (R) was 16.48 with genetic gain (Gs) of 2.21%, given 10% top selection intensity.