bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effectiveness of Emotional Freedom Technique on Public Speaking Anxiety in University Student: An Integrated Review
Authors: Wati Nenden Lesmana , Sansuwito Tukimin Bin , Riyanto Dwiagung , Sustiyono Agus , Musfirowati Fifi
Published: May 2022

Public Speaking Anxiety is the most frequently feared condition among university student in academic activities. Emotional freedom technique has gained increased popularity and appears as a promising way to reduce emotional distress in different setting and populations. However, limited review has examining EFT treatment on public speaking anxiety. This integrative review was to examine the effectiveness of EFT programs on public speaking anxiety in university students. The review was carried out using the framework for integrated reviews obtained from Google Scholar, PsycINFO, and PubMed. Articles were included when reporting primary studies on the efficacy of EFT programs on public-speaking anxiety for university students in Bahasa Indonesia and English. The total of 5 were evaluated critically and included in the review. Two of the studies were undertaken in the United Kingdom, and one each in Australia, Turkey, and Indonesia. Two of the studies were randomized controlled, two used mixed methods, and one queasy experiment design. A majority of the interventions were able to reduce public speaking anxiety.  This review shows that implementation of EFT, even within limited resources, is both achievable and worthwhile. EFT programs should be ­introduced early in the curriculum for university student in their first year of a Bachelor program
The Difference in Anxiety Scores Prior and After Cataract Surgery among Bilateral Senile Cataract Patients at Sumatera Eye Center Medan
Authors: Putri Indah Vidayu , Effendy Elmeida , Nasution Nazli Mahdinasari
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND: A cataract defines as a dense, cloudy area that forms in the lens of the eyes, altering one’s physical function, as well as social and psychological aspects. The only definitive treatment option for cataracts is surgery which may lead to anxiety either before the intervention, on intervention, or after the intervention.

AIM: This study is to investigate the difference in anxiety scores among bilateral senile cataract patients at Sumatera Eye Centre Medan before and after undergoing cataract surgery.

METHOD: This comparative analytical study was carried out using Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Anxiety Subscale to assess anxiety symptoms experienced by 40 bilateral senile cataract patients. Measurement was taken twice, before the surgery ad after undergoing surgery.

RESULT: There is a significant difference in anxiety scores before and after undergoing surgery (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: There is a significant difference in anxiety scores before and after undergoing surgery among our subjects. We also found that anxiety is more likely to occur before the surgery.
Immunohistochemical expression of CK20, CK7, and CDX2 in colorectal carcinoma in correlation with pathomorphological characteristics
Authors: Ilieva Nevena , Tashkova Desislava , Staykov Dmitrii , Serteva Denitsa , Feodorova Yana , Mehterov Nikolay , Mollova Angelina , Bachurska Svitlana
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Colorectal carcinoma is the third most common cancer worldwide. The usual immunophenotype of colorectal adenocarcinoma is CDX2 positive, CK20 positive, and CK7 negative. Aberrant expression is reported in a variety of colorectal carcinomas but its relation to morphological variables and survival data is still unclear.

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between the aberrant immunostaining of colorectal carcinoma and different clinicopathological characteristics.

Materials and methods: Immunohistochemical expression of CK20, CK7, and CDX2 was evaluated in 71 cases of colorectal carcinoma. Statistical analysis was performed to identify correlations between the morphological characteristics and the immunoprofile of colorectal carcinoma.

Results: Positive cytoplasmic and/or membranous signal for CK20 was observed in 66.2% of colorectal carcinomas. CK7 positive immunostaining was seen in 7% of the cases. In terms of combined expression of CK20 and CK7, the proportion of immunoprofile CK20+/CK7− was the highest, accounting for 46 out of 71 colorectal carcinomas, followed by CK20−/CK7−, then CK20−/CK7+ and CK20+/CK7+. Concerning CDX2, the majority of colorectal carcinomas (87.3%) showed positive staining. Statistically significant correlation was established between CDX2 expression and histologic grade and depth of tumour invasion. Loss of CK20 positivity was associated with higher histologic grade. No association between CK7 expression and histopathologic features was established.

Conclusions: The results support the heterogeneity of colorectal cancer. Over 35% of the cases in this study showed deviations from the expected immunoprofile. This should be taken into consideration when diagnosing colorectal carcinoma in metastatic regions.
Pulse oximetry in paediatric dentistry
Authors: Shindova Maria P. , Belcheva-Krivorova Ani , Taralov Zdravko
Published: May 2022

Pulse oximetry is a technique used to measure the levels of blood oxygen saturation. Because this technique is regarded as non-invasive, easy to apply, and accurate technology, the number of possible applications in general dentistry practice has been gradually increasing. The aim of the present study was to summarise the contemporary research literature concerning the use of pulse oximetry in paediatric dentistry. We made a critical evaluation of the clinical applications of pulse oximetry and the advantages and disadvantages of this technique. Knowledge of innovative methods and techniques for treatment and diagnostics by paediatric dentists is a valuable advantage in dealing with the functional problems in attending dental patients. The expository analysis allows reviewing the succession of this diagnostic approach.
A new species of the Spirobranchus kraussii complex, S. akitsushima (Annelida, Polychaeta, Serpulidae), from the rocky intertidal zone of Japan
Authors: Nishi Eijiroh , Abe Hirokazu , Tanaka Katsuhiko , Jimi Naoto , Kupriyanova Elena K.
Published: May 2022

A new species of Spirobranchus (Annelida: Serpulidae) is described based on specimens collected at the coastal Shonan area of Sagami Bay and the adjacent areas of Honshu, Japan. Spirobranchus akitsushimasp. nov. forms large aggregations in the intertidal rocky zone of warm-temperate Japanese shores. This species was referred to as Pomatoleios kraussii (Baird, 1864) until the monotypic genus Pomatoleios was synonymized with Spirobranchus. This new species is formally described based on morphologically distinct Japanese specimens with supporting DNA sequence data. The calcareous opercular endplate of Spirobranchus akitsushimasp. nov. lacks a distinct talon, but some specimens have a slight rounded swelling on the endplate underside, while in other species of the S. kraussii complex a talon is present, usually extended, and with bulges. We examined sub-fossil tube aggregations of the new species and suggest that such aggregation stranded ashore is a good indicator of vertical land movements (uplift and subsidence) resulting from past events, such as earthquakes, in Honshu, Japan.
Soigner les « précaires » en territoires populaires
Authors: Mariette Audrey , Pitti Laure
Published: May 2022

Résumé Cet article a pour objet d’analyser le rôle que jouent des groupes professionnels en position de cadres intermédiaires – ici chargées de mission et médecins – dans la fabrique locale d’une politique de santé publique. Il se centre plus particulièrement sur les dispositifs de prise en charge des « précaires », à l’échelle d’une commune populaire. On appréhende cette politique locale de santé publique comme une configuration sociale, à savoir comme le produit d’un système de relations entre des institutions et des acteurs, publics et privés, aux positions différenciées, pris à la fois dans des logiques de dépendances et dans des dynamiques de concurrence et de coopération. Comment le territoire, les institutions qui l’administrent, les acteurs qui s’y côtoient, façonnent l’action publique locale en matière de santé publique ? Dans un premier temps, nous étudions les relations de dépendance réciproque entre acteurs publics et privés engagés au sein de l’espace local de la santé publique pour prendre en charge les publics « précaires » qu’ils participent à définir face au flou de la catégorie à l’échelle nationale. Nous montrons comment s’opère ce travail de définition, au croisement d’une histoire locale de la santé publique et de l’appropriation de dispositifs nationaux en matière de prise en charge de « la précarité ». Dans un second temps, nous analysons les enjeux de (dé)valorisation professionnelle qu’entraîne le travail de prise en charge de publics « précaires » dans chacun des deux groupes professionnels étudiés. Parce que des acteurs de ces deux groupes, soignants et non-soignants, partagent une vision commune du travail de « réduction des inégalités sociales et territoriales de santé », ils initient des coopérations inédites. Ces logiques de dépendances et ces dynamiques de concurrence et de coopération participent à la coproduction de la politique locale de santé publique.
Les paradoxes des politiques d’égalité en entreprise
Authors: Charpenel Marion , Rabier Marion
Published: May 2022

Résumé Depuis la loi Roudy de 1983, les pouvoirs publics ont choisi de faire de la négociation collective la voie privilégiée pour la mise en œuvre de l’égalité professionnelle entre les femmes et les hommes. L’État confie donc aux partenaires sociaux la responsabilité de la définition et de l’application de cette action publique. L’objet de cet article est de s’interroger sur une double tension de la politique publique de l’égalité professionnelle. En premier lieu, pensée pour amener les entreprises à établir un diagnostic des inégalités à l’œuvre dans leur organisation et à proposer des mesures adaptées à leur situation, comment expliquer qu’elle conduise à des textes et des mesures relativement homogènes, quels que soient les contextes locaux et les secteurs d’activité ? La seconde tension de la politique d’égalité concerne sa mise en œuvre : laissée à la responsabilité du personnel encadrant et des services RH, peu formé·e·s à la question de l’égalité professionnelle, les mesures déployées tendent à privilégier une approche individualisée de l’égalité, pensée avant tout pour la performance de l’entreprise.
Entre norme administrative et logique de clientèle
Authors: Corbel Amélie
Published: May 2022

Résumé Cet article s’intéresse aux logiques d’action des conseillers-experts en procédure administrative (CEPA), une profession juridique japonaise dont l’une des compétences consiste à accompagner les démarches de demande de titres de séjour. Il interroge leur rôle en tant qu’intermédiaire privé de la mise en œuvre de l’action publique. Ce travail présente l’originalité de porter sur des acteurs privés marchands qui se distinguent de leurs homologues associatifs – largement étudiés par les travaux existants – par leur absence de militantisme et le caractère lucratif de leur activité. Il conviendra d’analyser de quelle manière ces différences affectent (ou non) les modalités d’intermédiation. Cette recherche s’appuie sur une observation-participante réalisée au sein de deux bureaux de CEPA et des entretiens. Elle montre que la configuration des relations entretenues avec la clientèle et l’administration migratoire place les CEPA en situation de devoir répondre à une double contrainte : « servir le client sans desservir l’administration ». La conciliation entre contrainte d’efficacité et maintien de sa réputation auprès de l’interlocuteur administratif s’opère principalement en convaincant les clients de répondre au plus près des attentes de l’administration. C’est dans cette logique d’action que s’ancre le rôle des CEPA comme relais des normes juridico-administratives. L’article étudie les modalités concrètes d’intériorisation, d’interprétation et de transmission de ces normes, en prenant pour cas d’étude les procédures de regroupement familial.
Des pratiques médiatiques socialisées et socialisantes
Authors: Pagiusco Maialen
Published: May 2022

La visibilité croissante des homosexualités dans les médias est tantôt perçue comme le signe d’une plus grande acceptation sociale tantôt comme l’un des facteurs de la diffusion d’attitudes «  gayfriendly » . En déplaçant le regard à l’échelle des expériences individuelles, cet article interroge les rôles des médias dans les biographies homosexuelles et, plus particulièrement, l’ancrage biographique et social de leurs effets socialisateurs. Plutôt que de chercher à éclairer directement les « effets » des contenus médiatiques, on s’appuie sur l’analyse des publics, aux appartenances hétérogènes en termes de classe et de genre, et de leurs « pratiques médiatiques », à la fois socialisées et socialisantes.
Du texte au nombre
Authors: Koch Olivier
Published: May 2022

Extraites de publications dans les médias, les « données d’événement » sont utilisées dans les études académiques et dans la prédiction stratégique de conflits. Elles permettent de produire des connaissances sur le comportement des acteurs des relations internationales et elles fournissent aux gouvernants une aide à la prise de décision. Depuis leur création dans les années 1960, les artisans de ces savoirs ont sans cesse renouvelé les promesses d’optimiser la prise de décision politique en contexte de crise, en échange du financement de leurs recherches. Cependant, en exploitant ce qui est édité par les industries de l’information, ces études sur la guerre reprennent sans examen critique les représentations sélectives façonnées par les journalistes. Cet article montre que les promesses d’optimisation de la décision ne peuvent être tenues, et il met en évidence dans quelle mesure les savoirs utilisant des données d’événement concourent à la reproduction de rapports de domination, initialement dans le domaine de l’information internationale, dans le domaine académique de l’analyse et de la prédiction de crises.
Agrocarburants : impacts au Sud ?
Authors: Shattuck Annie , Urbain Magali
Published: May 2022

La « Table ronde sur les biocarburants durables » (RSB) est la seule initiative globale visant à mettre en place un système de certification des agrocarburants garantissant leur durabilité sociale et environnementale. La démarche s’inspire de systèmes adoptés dans d’autres secteurs : bois, soja, huile de palme. Au mieux ambiguës, ces expériences contribuent à « verdir » l’image des industries concernées, davantage qu’à réformer leurs pratiques.
A stochastic linear-quadratic differential game with time-inconsistency
Authors: Zhou Qinglong , Zong Gaofeng
Published: May 2022

We consider a general stochastic linear-quadratic differential game with time-inconsistency. The time-inconsistency arises from the presence of quadratic terms of the expected state as well as state-dependent term in the objective functionals. We define an equilibrium strategy, which is different from the classical one, and derive a sufficient condition for equilibrium strategies via a system of forward-backward stochastic differential equation. When the state is one-dimensional and the coefficients are all deterministic, we find an explicit equilibrium strategy. The uniqueness of such equilibrium strategy is also given.
DMAIC methodology for achieving public satisfaction with health departments in various districts of Punjab and optimizing CT scan patient load in urban city hospitals
Authors: Tufail Muhammad Mutasim Billah , Shamim Asad , Ali Asghar , Ibrahim Muhammad , Mehdi Danial , Nawaz Waseem
Published: May 2022

The health care delivery system in Pakistan is in a process of rapid growth, and it consists of public and private sectors. The provincial government is preliminarily responsible for providing health care facilities within its province except in federally administered areas. In Pakistan, there are three tiers of governmental healthcare delivery systems, which comprise government, semi-government, and parastatal organizations. The purpose of this study is to understand the rapid increase in influx of patients in major city hospitals of the Punjab province. The reasons for patient flow towards the major city areas can vary, but our point of focus is mainly on those patients who are prescribed to get a computed tomography (CT) scan done for better diagnosis and early treatment, including but not limited to roadside accident cases. The study targets the define, measure, analyze, improve and control (DMAIC) problem solving approach to assess the potential cause of CT patient flow and the challenges that the health department is facing to cater to such a patient niche and process while minimizing the congestion in city government hospitals. The approach in this study summarizes with numerous quality tools like Voice of Customer (VOC) which is customer feedback, Customer Output Process Input and Supplier (COPIS) processes use for high-level process map to know what your customer value, Approver Resource Member Interested (ARMI) chart which is use to analyze the stakeholders on management of the project, evaluation with the help of fishbone diagram and house of quality, and for process improvement methodology we use the team brainstorming technique and the kaizen 5-why technique. The technique came up with an idea of a public-private partnership (PPP) project—partnership between public agency and private firm, as the health care industry in Punjab province is going through budgetary issues. In a PPP project, the Government will allocate the space to a private firm to build the facility on their own and provide quality service for CT scan diagnosis to the public of Punjab. The study identified the top 10 critical factors that the patients have expected from the government to be provided on priority. The Kaizen process improvement methodology has been adopted to provide the possible solution of government budgetary issues. The set of tools in this study can be adopted by other PPP projects to enhance the project performance.
Mobilités alimentaires
Authors: Williot Jean-Pierre
Published: May 2022

Au même titre que les auberges routières de célèbres nationales, les somptueuses salles à manger des paquebots transatlantiques, les services à bord du transport aérien, la restauration ferroviaire a pris place dans les alimentations mobiles. Des années 1830 aux années 2020, ses formes ont varié. En France, elle se résume aujourd’hui au bar des TGV, aux boutiques de vente à emporter près des quais et aux restaurants mélangés des quartiers de gare. Mais elle cache une histoire longue.

Les buffets de gare sont apparus aux débuts du chemin de fer. Parfois tables de haute cuisine jusque dans les années 1950, ils ont ensuite été relégués à des rôles secondaires. L’idée de raccorder une voiture-restaurant aux convois des voyageurs aisés a connu un succès réel à la fin du xixe siècle. L’image rémanente des grands express finit par rejeter dans l’ombre le wagon-bar de banlieue et le panier garni avalé dans l’inconfort par la majorité des mangeurs. C’est pour eux que le plateau-repas, le chariot ambulant et le Gril-Express ont été conçus.

L’histoire de la restauration ferroviaire croise ainsi l’étude de l’alimentation et la dynamique des mobilités, le cadre des entreprises et les pratiques de consommation.
10-rm test of upper and lower limbs using a machine and elastic bands: Is there agreement between devices?
Authors: Fernandes Jefferson Dias , Ribeiro Alexandre Lima de Araújo , Santos Wanderson Divino Nilo , Clael Sacha , Gentil Paulo , Vieira Carlos Alexandre , Martins Wagner Rodrigues
Published: May 2022

Machines and free weights are commonly used to increase muscle strength and performance. However, the use of elastic devices needs scientific investigations regarding its agreement against gold standards methods muscle strength. Aim: To determine the agreement of the 10-RM test between weight machine and elastic resistance in upper and lower limb exercises, and the intra-device reliability, agreement, and minimal detectable changes of the 10-RM test. Methods: Twenty-three healthy and untrained adults, of both sexes (age 22.43 ± 2.55), performed the 10-RM bench press and knee extension test with weight machines and elastic tubes, randomly. Results: The comparison of the 10-RM test between instruments, by the use of ICC index, demonstrated very high and high reliability for lower (ICC = 0.87) and upper (ICC = 0.80) limbs, respectively. The Bland Altman agreement analysis showed that the 10-RM test using elastic resistance produced lower loads (Kgf) on knee extension (34.16 ± 6.81 [elastic]; 36.22 ± 9.45 [machine]; Mean difference = 2.05 kgf ± 5.32) and higher loads (Kgf) on the vertical bench press (31.61 ± 7.81 [elastic]; 24.96 ± 10.11 [machine]; Mean difference = 6.65 kgf ± 4.93) when compared to the weight machines. Intra-device reliability also demonstrated a very high ICC index for upper and lower limbs on both devices. Conclusion: The use of 10-RM with elastic resistance presents high reliability and agreement when compared to weight machines for bench press or knee extension exercises.
Physical education teachers of the basic public education of Minas Gerais in the pandemic of Covid-19: working conditions, health and lifestyle
Authors: Bastos Vítor Fonseca , Silva Nayra Suze Souza e , Haikal Desirée Sant'Ana , Silveira Marise Fagundes , Pinho Lucineia de , Brito Maria Fernanda Santos Figueiredo , Silva Rosângela Ramos Veloso
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to describe the working and health conditions of physical education teachers in public basic education in the state of Minas Gerais – Brazil during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross-sectional study, carried out from August to September 2020, via digital form and had the support of the Minas Gerais State Department of Education. The instrument presented variables related to the sociodemographic profile, work and health conditions during the pandemic. The prevalences of the variables were presented. 1,016 physical education teachers participated in the study. Of these, 61.4% were female, 65.8% aged 21 to 40 years and 15.3% worked in the countryside. In relation to working conditions during the pandemic, 99% performed remote activities, 35.7% were dissatisfied with their work, 37% worked much more than they used to and 81.2% presented the interest of students/parents in classes as a difficulty. As for health conditions during the pandemic, 10.3% increased their consumption of alcoholic beverages, 26.1% did not practice physical exercise, 56.5% had increased body weight and 37.8% reported a lot of fear of COVID-19. Physical education teachers of basic education in the state of Minas Gerais were significantly affected by the pandemic, so it is important to implement support strategies.
Comparison of affective responses during school physical education classes with different recovery times
Authors: Amanda de Araújo Barbosa Maria , Moura Hélcio Maciel de , Santos Lucas Eduardo Rodrigues , Fernandes Matheus Santos de Sousa , Henrique Rafael dos Santos , Damasceno Vinicius de Oliveira , Santos Tony Meireles
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to verify the effect of exercise recovery time on the affective responses during a circuit training in physical education classes. Forty-six apparently healthy young adolescents (twenty-one girls) (12.85 ± 0.94 years; 49.7 ± 8.93 kg; 1.59 ± 0.08 cm; 19.51 ± 3.28 kg/m2) participated in this study. Were submitted participants for two physical education classes, based on circuited model of  the same intensity, but with different recovery times (2 min and 1 min). The study was carried out in two phases: baseline and intervention. Affect, Arousal, and Ratings of Perceived Exertion data were analyzed using paired t-tests, considering a significance level of p < 0.05. The class with longer rest time (2 min) provided greater affection (t(45) = 3.586; p < 0,001) and less perceived effort (t(45) = 2.295; p = 0,026). The intensity manipulation strategy was effective in providing different affective responses, in which classes perceived as more intense, resulting in the decline of affect.
Climate Change Impact Assessment of Geopolymer Mortars
Authors: Colangelo Francesco , Farina Ilenia , Salzano Cinzia , Travaglioni Marta , de Pertis Marco , Cioffi Raffaele , Petrillo Antonella
Published: May 2022

The awareness of environmental protection, with the conservation of resources and the efficient use of industrial waste, has attracted the attention in recent decades as both the overexploitation of natural resources and the disposal of industrial waste have a negative impact on the environment and sustainability [1]. Under such circumstances, replacing ordinary Portland cement (OPC) with industrial waste has been shown as a sustainable and practical way to reduce the use of natural resources, as well as landfill waste and pollution [2]. The discussion of this issue is part of a path, which sees as its starting point the design of a hydraulic pipeline prototype (Figure 1) made of geopolymer mortar instead of conventional concrete pipes. The environmental sustainability of geopolymer mortars was demonstrated through the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology. Analysis results indicate that the use of eco-friendly materials contributes to minimizing the environmental impact of new technologies for engineering sector.
Circularity Performances of the Production of a Cement Mortar Reinforced with Recycled Synthetic Fibers
Authors: Marinelli Simona , Butturi Maria Angela , Rimini Bianca , Gamberini Rita
Published: May 2022

Forced by environmental implications and by legislation requirements, the cement sector is moving towards more circular economy practices, with the primary aim to enhance the sector sustainability. This commitment translates into product technology innovation, but also into innovative development perspectives for the industries involved in the supply chain. Moreover, dealing with recycled materials can modify the interaction among stakeholders from a conventional supply chain to an industrial symbiosis approach, where companies mutually exchange products and by-products into circular interactions. The purpose of this article is to investigate the circularity performances deriving from the production of a cement mortar reinforced with recycled synthetic fibers coming from artificial turf carpets. From the collection of artificial turf carpets at the end-of-life stage it is possible to recover several materials: plastic fibers used in the cement mortar, and in addition, silica sand, rubber, and bituminous membrane. The production of the innovative reinforced cement mortar leads to the connection between industries belonging to different sectors and consequently to uneven economic and environmental implications. Starting from the available literature, this study aims at evaluating the circularity potential of the unusual interactions among companies to support the development of an effective strategy, reducing environmental and economic pressures.
Tensile and Pull-Out Behavior of Steel Reinforced Grout Connectors
Authors: Fares Sara , Fugger Rebecca , de Santis Stefano , de Felice Gianmarco
Published: May 2022

Mortar-based composites are an emerging technology for the repair and strengthening of reinforced concrete and masonry structures. In most cases, the effectiveness of the retrofitting work relies on the substrate-to-composite bond capacity but in some applications, connectors are also used to prevent debonding and improve the performance of the retrofitted structure. Indeed, the use of connectors is recommended by design guidelines and suppliers are required to test them for acceptance. The paper presents a laboratory investigation on steel reinforced grout connectors, made by rolling ultra-high tensile strength steel textiles, comprising either galvanized or stainless-steel micro cords. Tensile tests were first carried out for mechanical characterization. Pull-out tests were then performed on connectors installed in holes drilled in wall panels and injected with either cement or lime mortars. Concrete, tuff masonry, brickwork and limestone masonry were used as substrate materials. Test results are commented to analyze the effect of textile rolling on tensile response, of textile and matrix properties on pull-out strength and failure mode, as well as to highlight their significance for design purposes.
Damage Modelling in Adhesive Butt Joints under Torsion via Imperfect Interface Models
Authors: Rizzoni Raffaella , Raffa Maria Letizia , Lebon Frédéric
Published: May 2022

We report on an analytical model for damage description in adhesive butt joints. In themodel, the thin adhesive layer is replaced by a damaging bonding interface. The mechanical behaviorof the interface is described by a nonlinear and rate­dependent imperfect contact law. The law takesinto account both stress and displacement jumps, and it can describe both soft and hard adhesive layers.Unlike classic cohesive zone models, phenomenological in nature, the proposed contact law explicitlyaccounts for material and damage properties of the adhesive layer. A first comparison with literaturedata of adhesive butt joints loaded in torsion indicates that the model can successfully reproduce theirexperimental stress­strain response.
Analytical Approach for Modelling the Pull-Out Mechanism of Recycled Synthetic Fibres in Fibre-Reinforced Concrete (FRC)
Authors: Sorzia Andrea , Signorini Cesare , Volpini Valentina , di Maida Pietro
Published: May 2022

This study presents a simple one-dimensional analytical model describing the pull-out process of an elastic fibre embedded in a cement matrix, which captures the ductile behaviour of Fibre Reinforced Concrete (FRC) elements.The shear stress arising at the frictional interface between fibre and matrix during the pull-out is assumed to increase with the slippage distance, as a consequence of the growing abrasion of the fibre surface.The equilibrium conditions between the external axial load and the interfacial shear stress are imposed with reference to the undeformed configuration.The model is validated through comparison with both experimental data obtained by testing partially recycled polymeric fibres embedded in a cement matrix, and several datasets available in the literature comprising polypropylene fibres with and without silica coatings.The proposed model can properly describe the response of synthetic fibres that exhibit considerable axial elongation and slip-hardening interface behaviour.However, it may also predict the non-linear relation between the tensile load and the fibre displacement for different kinds of fibre, by setting adequately the constitutive parameters.
Coatings Based on Light-Weight Alkali Activated Mortars for Steel Corrosion Protection
Authors: Masi Giulia , Bignozzi Maria Chiara
Published: May 2022

Alkali activated materials and geopolymers have attracted a lot of attention in the last 20 years thanks to their excellent mechanical performances, durability and sustainability properties, especially for civil applications. These materials also exhibit promising properties as fire- and corrosion-resistant protection systems. In a previous study, a 20-mm coating based on light-weight alkali activated mortar (LWAAM) suitable for the protection of steel structures against fire was successfully developed. To understand if the same coating is also able to ensure corrosion protection to steel structures, this study reports the results obtained in two different chloride-rich environments. The corrosion performance of the new system based on steel coated by LWAAM (using expanded perlite and hydrogen peroxide in the mix) was compared with a steel coated by a traditional alkali activated mortar (NWAAM). Electrochemical tests on steel samples immersed in an alkaline solution simulating the pore environment of the binder or embedded in the two different types of mortars were carried out in presence of different chloride concentrations. It was found that the alkaline environment is able to passivate the steel surface, however, the increasing of chloride ions concentration, affects passive film stability and promotes steel corrosion. In presence of low chloride concentration (i.e., 0.2M NaCl), the increased porosity of the LWAAM did not impair the steel corrosion protection, when compared with NWAAM.
Numerical Analysis to Evaluate the Structural Performance of NFRCM (Natural Fabric-Reinforced Cementitious) Strengthened Masonry
Authors: Baldelli Jacopo , Baraldi Daniele , Boscato Giosuè , Cecchi Antonella , de Carvalho Bello Claudia Brito , Boscolo Zemelo Mattia , Thatikonda Nandini Priya
Published: May 2022

The innovative sustainable technology based on natural fabric-reinforced cementitious matrix (NFRCM) is analyzed for strengthening masonry. A new frontier for composite materials is proposed as an alternative to well-known traditional technologies used to improve the seismic behavior of buildings, such as the portuguese technique ‘gaiola pombalina’, the Italian ‘baraccata house’ and the turkish ‘himis house’. Preliminary sensitivity analysis is performed on NFRCM and ‘baraccata’ numerical models. Both technologies are numerically compared. From the experimental results of in-plane incremental load test carried out by CNR-Ivalsa a numerical model is calibrated by non-linear pushover analysis to evaluate the behavior of masonry wall strengthened with natural fibers. This paper demonstrates the effectiveness of NFRCM systems for strengthening masonry as: i) a non-invasive solution without significant thickness; ii) a sustainable technology; iii) an intervention involving the whole wall surface avoiding failure local mechanisms.
Durability of Reinforced Concrete Containing Biochar and Recycled Polymers
Authors: Zanotto Federica , Sirico Alice , Merchiori Sebastiano , Vecchi Francesca , Balbo Andrea , Bernardi Patrizia , Belletti Beatrice , Malcevschi Alessio , Grassi Vincenzo , Monticelli Cecilia
Published: May 2022

In the field of sustainable construction materials, the production of eco-friendly concretes, obtained by the addition of waste products such as biochar and recycled polymer particles, offers interesting alternatives to traditional materials. Biochar is a carbonaceous solid by-product obtained from the thermo-chemical conversion of biomass and its addition into concrete admixtures can offer an eco-friendly carbon sequestration solution, capable to slightly improve concrete properties. Recycled polymer materials can be used to partially replace conventional aggregates with the aim of obtaining lighter concretes that help to face the disposal challenge presented by this non-degradable plastic waste. However, the influence of these waste additions on the corrosion behavior of steel rebars embedded in these “eco-concretes” is still unexplored. Within this context, this work presents some results of an extensive study dealing with the concrete mechanical and physical properties and the rebar corrosion resistance during cyclic exposures to chloride-containing solutions.
Engineered Cementitious Composites for the Conservation of 20th Century Concrete Architectural Heritage
Authors: Georgiou Antroula , Theodoulides Michalis , Ioannou Ioannis
Published: May 2022

Architectural heritage nowadays includes concrete structures constructed in the 20th century. These buildings are usually under-detailed, since the actual behavior of reinforced concrete at the time of their construction was not clearly understood, whilst building codes incorporating seismic resistance design, especially in seismic prone areas, did not exist. This inevitably led to inefficient design and consequently to severe damages in many historic concrete buildings during past seismic events. This paper explores the use of novel Engineered (Fiber Reinforced) Cementitious Composites (ECCs), with strain hardening abilities in tension, for the repair and strengthening of old sub-standard reinforced concrete columns, focusing on their confining and shear strengthening potentials. The experimental results show that, when replacing the reinforcement cover with fiber reinforced ECCs, the fibers bridge tensile cracks, limiting their opening and increasing their resistance against volumetric expansion, ultimately leading to increased amounts of energy dissipation. ECCs may thus by used in the repair of historic concrete structural elements.
Benefits and Opportunities of Reusing Waste Rotor Blades Materials from a Life Cycle Perspective
Authors: La Rosa Angela Daniela , Goutianos Stergios
Published: May 2022

The present Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) intends to investigate the environmental benefit of using natural fibres and/or recyclable epoxy resins for future manufacturing of small/medium wind turbine blades to handle thermoset polymer composites that are designed to be recyclable at the end of life”). LCA comparison of a modelled blade based on flax fibres reinforced recyclable epoxy resin and a traditional blade made of glass fibres and non recyclable epoxy resin is presented. In the production phase the environmental impacts of the flax fibre reinforced recyclable epoxy resin composite blade are higher than the blade based on glass fibre epoxy composite mainly due to the higher amount of epoxy resin necessary to satisfy the design criteria of the blade e.g. fatigue and deflection. The end of life is significative as the environmental impacts are reduced by the recycling and recovery of the fibres and the resin, being the resin more significative.
Investigating the factors affecting self-care behaviors in diabetic patients: A systematic review
Authors: Zarei Leila , Saleh Raed Obaid , Arziev Ismael A. , Al-Gazally Moaed E. , Mahmudiono Trias , Piri Negar , Shokri Samira , Huldani Huldani
Published: May 2022

Diabetes is one of the most common non-communicable diseases, which have far-reaching economic and social consequences and threaten the national production and economy of countries. However, diabetes is a disease of self-control. Therefore, self-care strategies can maintain patients’ independence while reducing the burden imposed on health care resources. This study aimed to investigate the factors affecting self-care behaviors in diabetic patients. This study is a systematic review; Google Scholar, SID, Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, and ISI databases were used; 17,500 articles were found including the keywords “self-care”, “diabetes” and “affecting factors” in the search process, and all studies after 2010 were included. After reviewing the titles and abstracts, 51 studies were included. The studies’ reports on selfcare behaviors and their prevalence were very different depending on the tools used. The studies show the relationship between selfcare behaviors in patients with diabetes and various factors, including demographic, socio-economic, and psychological factors. The most important variables included are educational status, age, gender, marital status, BMI, occupational status, duration of illness, comorbidities, income, having glucometer, perceived severity of the disease and its complications, perceived barriers, diabetes distress, diabetes knowledge, perceived susceptibility, self-efficacy, social and family support, depression, and anxiety. Due to the relationship of demographic, socio-economic, and psychological factors with self-care behaviors in patients with diabetes, it is suggested that a comprehensive program for the management of caring behaviors in diabetic patients should be designed to include all of the above.
The golden jackal Canis aureus L. 1758 (Carnivora: Canidae) on the Tuscan Apennines
Authors: Bacci Francesco , Lunghi Enrico
Published: May 2022

We report the first observations of the golden jackal on the Tuscan Apennines (Italy). We observed two individuals 15 times in the district of Prato, between 21 November 2021 and 5 January 2022. Their presence has been assessed through camera traps at the edge of an urbanized area. The southernmost presence data for Italy reported in the literature is documented for Emilia-Romagna, about 200 km north from Prato, while a recent unpublished report records its presence in northern Lazio, about 300 km south. These observations highlight the need to increase the research effort to monitor the expansion of the golden jackal along the Italian peninsula more efficiently.
Evaluation of Post-surgical Site Infection Wounds in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Central India
Authors: Hedaoo Jagdish B. , Paramne Amit V. , Raj Nirjhar , Rathod Vinod N.
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are one of the commonest hospital-acquired infections globally.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 2083 cases were included in the study; surgical sites were graded in accordance to the set of clinical criteria recommended by the CDC's NNIS system. We graded the wounds on the basis of culture positive with respect to age and sex, pre-operative hospitalization, duration of surgery, duration of drain, hemoglobin levels, random blood sugar, and smoking.

Results:

The total males and females included were 1561 and 522, respectively. The age group of 40–50 years was the highest operated group, whereas the 12–21 age group was with least surgeries. The numbers of SSI were higher in subjects with longer pre-operative hospital stay. The occurrence of SSIs was higher in surgeries with longer duration. Patients with drain of longer duration had higher number of SSIs when compared with subjects with no drain in wounds. The hemoglobin pattern suggested that anemic subjects were more susceptible to SSIs when compared with non-anemic subjects. Diabetic patients were more prone to SSI when compared with non-diabetic subjects. Smokers were more prone to SSIs when compared with non-smokers.

Conclusion:

The study established a relationship between SSI and various factors, which would help clinicians in handling cases of post-operative SSIs.
Catching Them Young
Authors: Mittal Anusha , Pokale Aarati B.
Published: May 2022

Background and Objectives:

Cervical cancer is the most common cancer in females and a leading cause of cancer death in developing countries. The objectives are (1) to assess knowledge regarding cervical cancer and its risk factors among female adolescents and (2) to analyze human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine status and reasons for vaccine hesitancy.

Materials and Methods:

This is a cross-sectional interventional study in a women's engineering college in Pune city, Maharashtra, India. About 230 students were administered pre-test. Educational intervention using videos on cervical cancer was done. Post-test was administered to check the change in knowledge.

Statistical Analysis Used:

SPSS software is used to calculate percentages and to apply the χ2 test.

Results:

Most participants had poor knowledge about cervical cancer. About 52% and 57% of the students did not know the cause and mode of spread of HPV. Only 15% were aware about vaccine. Unawareness was a major barrier to HPV vaccination.

Conclusion:

A need to empower females by educating them about cervical cancer was realized. The risk factors for this malignancy are preventable, and educational intervention can go a long way in raising awareness.
Risk of SARS-CoV-2 Infection Among Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Yashaswini Mysore K. , Archana Banur R. , Benachinmardi Kirtilaxmi , Anjanappa Lakshminarayana S. , Sampath Sangeetha
Published: May 2022

Purpose:

Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at higher risk of acquiring SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of current pandemic COVID-19. Being frontline workers and most essential resource of healthcare systems, it is important to identify infection in them early. Hence, this study was conducted to assess the risk of HCWs in acquiring SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective study was conducted at a tertiary healthcare center for a duration of 6 months. All the HCWs, involved in Covid-19 patient care, were enrolled in the study. A total number of 792 HCWs were screened for COVID-19 by using real-time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (rRT–PCR). Data on age, sex, and occupational categories were also analyzed.

Results:

There were a total of 792 HCWs involved in Covid-19 patient care. Doctors were 350 (44%), nursing staff 230 (29%), cleaning staff 130 (17%), and supporting staff 82 (10%). Female staff (66%) outnumbered male staff (34%). Among 792 HCWs, 35 (4.42%) were positive for SARS-CoV-2 by RT–PCR. The highest positivity rate was seen in supporting staff (18.30%), followed by cleaning staff (3.84%), doctors (3.14%), and lowest in nurses (1.74%). Out of the 35 positive cases, clinical symptoms were seen in only 18 patients. Majority of the patients (53%) were asymptomatic.

Conclusion:

Although HCWs are at a higher risk of acquiring SARS-CoV-2 infection as an occupational hazard, the chances of acquiring infection in the community cannot be ruled out. All the HCWs in the hospital setting should be screened periodically, even if they are asymptomatic.
Relationship of Biofilm Formation and Antibiotic Susceptibility Profile of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Mehta Manjula , Sharma Jyoti , Bhardwaj Sonia Bhonchal , Ghai Akshay , Chawla Arshi
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Escherichia coli is the most frequent etiological agent isolated from urinary tract infections. Ability of these bacteria to form biofilm is one of its important virulence factors. Moreover in the past decades, there has been a growing increase in the prevalence of antibiotic resistance against commonly prescribed antibiotics. Bacteria in biofilm are considered to be highly resistant to antimicrobial agents.

Materials and Methods:

All the urine isolates were cultured to isolate the etiological agent of the infection and were tested for their susceptibility against various antibiotics recommended for their treatment. Of these isolates, only E. coli were subjected for biofilm formation detection. The resistance pattern obtained after antibiotic susceptibility testing was correlated with the results obtained from biofilm detection. All the results were statistically analyzed.

Results:

Of all the isolated obtained after culturing urine samples, 90% of them turned out to be E. coli only. When these isolates were subjected to biofilm detection, 35% of them showed positive results. Further, their resistance pattern revealed that bacteria-forming biofilms were more resistant toward penicillins, cephalosporins, and fluoroquinolones where very little resistance was reported for aminoglycosides, carbapenems, and nitrofurantoins.

Conclusion:

As this study concludes a positive association between biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance, it is strongly suggested that detection of biofilm and awareness about the susceptibility pattern of the bacteria toward locally prescribed antibiotics can be helpful in improving the efficacy of the empirical treatment of types of infections.
Review of complications in double eyelid surgery
Authors: Liu Jiaxi , Song Baoqiang
Published: May 2022

Double eyelid surgery is popular worldwide, especially in East Asia. Although double eyelid surgery seems simple, it comes with numerous complications. These complications can be divided into disordered complications and esthetic complications. Plastic surgeons pay more attention to the esthetic aspect. In our long-term clinical work, we have repeatedly observed that many patients with overactive facial muscles (frontalis muscle or corrugator supercilii muscle) often develop esthetic complications after surgery. These patients present with an appearance of a double eyelid fold that is either too high, too low, or absent. However, some plastic surgeons have not realized this, and most of them believe that esthetic complications are caused by improper techniques during surgery. Therefore, it is necessary for us to share our experience in this field with our peers.