bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integration of antimicrobial substances in 3-D printed plastics
Authors: Buhl Sebastian , Vogt J. , Stich A. , Brückner R. , Bulitta C.
Published: February 2021

The risk of healthcare associated infections (HAI) is rising with the utilization of more complex medical devices. Cleaning and disinfecting measures of such devices are often insufficient leading to an increased microbiological contamination on these devices. Recent studies imply that antimicrobial coatings could present a solution for this topic. In this work a novel approach for the introduction of an antimicrobial technology into plastic granulate was tested. After 3-D printing the antimicrobial activity of the test samples was analysed. Our results show that the integration of an antimicrobial substance to ABS plastic is feasible only with sophisticated plastic processing technologies. Simple heating or mixing of the substance did not allow integration of the antimicrobial substance into the 3-D printed sample, but it was possible to integrate the antimicrobial ingredient into the raw material by compounding. The printed test samples showed strong antimicrobial activity in the standardized test procedures.
Clinical validation and efficacy of a temperature-controlled ventilation system (TcAF) in the OR to reduce surgical site infections
Authors: Bulitta Clemens , Vasiuk Sergeii , Vasylchyshyn Yaroslav , Vasyuk Volodymyr , Guttenberger Regina , Buhl Sebastian
Published: February 2021

Microbiological burden of room-air in operating theatres is a known risk factor for surgical site infections. However, it is unclear how to best evaluate efficacy and efficiency under routine clinical conditions. Moreover, there still is a lack of data to assess the impact on infection rates. The aim of this study was to evaluate a temperature-controlled ventilation system (TcAF) under routine clinical conditions and assess its impact on infection rates. 10 clinical installations of the TcAF system Opragon (Avidicare AB, Sweden) were assessed during live surgeries according to the Swedish SIS TS 39: 2015 standard. Furthermore, a retrospective analysis of 1,000 consecutive cases of primary total joint arthroplasty (hip, knee) before and 1000 after installation of the TcAF system was performed. Endpoints for clinical outcome were length of stay and infection rates. Our results show that requirements of the Swedish standard were met or significantly exceeded by the TcAF system reliably and robustly ensuring "ultra-clean" air in the entire operating theatre and demonstrating the capability to reduce the risk of airborne microbial transmission under routine clinical conditions. The study shows positive impact on key clinical outcome parameters in line with previous research by Charnley and Lidwell.
Relevance and implications of positioning analysis for infection-preventive effectiveness of ventilation systems with low-turbulence dis-placement flow
Authors: Bulitta Clemens , Schlautmann Burkhard
Published: February 2021

Ventilation technology in German operating rooms is regulated by DIN 1946-4. Since the release of the latest version in 2018, a positioning analysis (worst-case scenario with the largest space requirement) for determining the required protected area in class 1a operating rooms is mandatory. The aim of this investigation was to use typical workflow scenarios to assess existing installations regarding the match of the required and the built size of the protected area. Positioning analyses were carried out together with the on-site staff for various clinical procedures in 2 hospitals to assess the built versus required protected areas. In all cases, the positioning analysis revealed that required protected areas need to be significantly larger than provided by the existing setup. The size of the protected area that is actually required can only be determined by individual positioning analysis. Most existing installations of low turbulence displacement flow systems (TAV) are likely to be too small. The larger protected areas actually require significantly larger rooms in order to maintain proper thermodynamics. Furthermore, significantly higher volumetric flow rates are required. Finally, the current mismatch between actual and necessary protected area would be a possible explanation for the controversial data situation regarding the infection preventive effects of TAV systems.
Robust predictive control for respiratory CO2 gas removal in closed-loop mechanical ventilation: An in-silico study
Authors: Schmal Matthias , Haueisen Jens , Männel Georg , Rostalski Philipp , Kircher Michael , Bluth Thomas , Gama de Abreu Marcelo , Stender Birgit
Published: February 2021

In this study a physiological closed-loop system for arterial CO2 partial pressure control was designed and comprehensively tested using a set of models of the respiratory CO2 gas exchange. The underlying preclinical data were collected from 12 pigs in presence of severe changes in hemodynamic and pulmonary condition. A minimally complex nonlinear state space model of CO2 gas exchange was identified post hoc in different lung conditions. The control variable was measured noninvasively using the endtidal CO2 partial pressure. For the simulation study the output signal of the controller was defined as the alveolar minute volume set value of an underlying adaptive lung protective ventilation mode. A linearisation of the two-compartment CO2 gas exchange model was used for the design of a model predictive controller (MPC). It was augmented by a tube based controller suppressing prediction errors due to model uncertainties. The controller was subject to comparative testing in interaction with each of the CO2 gas exchange models previously identified on the preclinical study data. The performance was evaluated for the system response towards the following five tests in comparison to a PID controller: recruitment maneuver, PEEP titration maneuver, stepwise change in the CO2 production, breath-hold maneuver and a step in the reference signal. A root mean square error of 2.69 mmHg between arterial CO2 partial pressure and the reference signal was achieved throughout the trial. The reference-variable response of the model predictive controller was superior regarding overshoot and settling time.
Actuation of a magnetically coated swimmer in viscous media with a magnetic particle imaging scanner
Authors: Bakenecker Anna C. , Chinchilla Carlos , Buzug Thorsten M.
Published: February 2021

Magnetic actuation of medical devices is of great interest in improving minimally invasive surgery and enabling targeted drug delivery. With untethered, magnetically coated swimmers it is aimed at reaching regions of the body difficult to access with catheters. Such a swimmer was previously presented, which is suitable for the navigation by the magnetic fields of a magnetic particle imaging (MPI) scanner. The swimmer could be imaged with MPI as well, enabling the tomographic real-time tracking of the actuation process. In this work the steerability of the swimmer is further investigated in media of varying viscosities. For this, glycerol-water-mixtures of different mixing ratios were used. The velocities of the swimmer were measured for viscosities between those of pure glycerol and pure water. The experiments were performed with an MPI scanner at maximal magnetic field strength of the actuating fields. A viscosity range was found in which the swimmer is steerable by the fields of an MPI scanner, which leads to a prediction of the applicability of the swimmer in different body fluids.
Digital process chains for patient specific medical devices
Authors: Wehmöller Michael , Utz Michael , Gesche Valentine
Published: February 2021

The Medical Technology Advisory Committee of the VDI Society develops a guideline for the implementation of digital process chains for patient-specific medical devices. The underlying medical device constitutes the basis for each individualized medical device. It serves as the development framework for manufacturing.
Multi-channel impedance analyzer for automated testing of networks and biomaterials
Authors: Tautorat Carsten , Kamke Frank , Pfensig Sylvia , Siewert Stefan , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Grabow Niels , Schmidt Wolfram
Published: February 2021

Impedance spectroscopy represents a basic operating principle for biomedical sensors, bioimpedance spectroscopy, electrochemical analyses and for characterization of functional biomaterials. For automated long-term investigations, an impedance analyzer for multi-channel testing of up to eight passive two-pole networks is presented in this paper. Its operating system is application-specific adapted to the required test functionalities and measuring ranges. Measurements are based on a commercially available integrated impedance converter circuit. Our current analyzer setup is capable of measuring impedance values from 50 kΩ up to 10 MΩ with automated range selection for most accurate results. The impedance under test is excited with a single frequency of 1 kHz. An impedance accuracy of 1.5 % was determined in reference measurements. The presented impedance analyzer is a low cost system ready for use particularly in long-term characterization of dielectric networks, such as material properties, with multiple samples.
Composite polyelectrolyte multilayers for biofunctionalization of medical devices
Authors: Rudt Alexander , Andreeva Tonya D. , Krastev Rumen , Taneva Stefka G.
Published: February 2021

Polyelectrolyte multilayer coatings (PEM) are prepared by alternative layer-by-layer deposition of cationic and anionic polyelectrolyte monolayers on charged surfaces. The thickness of the coatings ranges from nm to few μm. Their properties such as roughness, stiffness, surface charge and surface energy can be precisely tuned to fulfill different technical or biological requirements. The coating process is based on self-assembly of polyelectrolytes. Advantages of these coatings are their easy handling, no harsh chemistry and the possibility for coatings on complex geometries. The PEM coatings can be prepared from a variety of suitable polyelectrolytes. Their stability varies from very durable PEM coatings that are only soluble in strong solvents to quickly degradable, which may be applied as drug release system. One example of such a degradable PEM system is the one based on the polyelectrolyte pair Hyaluronan (HA) and Chitosan (CHI). These biopolymers originate from natural sources and show low toxicity towards human cells. However, HA/CHI multilayers shows only weak adhesiveness for human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). In this article, we summarize our approaches to enhance the HA/CHI multilayer by incorporation of a non-polymer substance -graphene oxide- to improve the cell adhesion and keep such properties as low cytotoxicity and biodegradability. Different approaches for incorporation of graphene oxide were performed and the cellular adhesion was tested by metabolic assay.
Computed fiber evaluation of SEM images using DiameterJ
Authors: Götz Andreas , Senz Volkmar , Illner Sabine , Grabow Niels
Published: February 2021

Fiber materials offer a high potential for improving the surface characteristics of medical implants. For quality assurance of nano- and microfiber structures the morphology is inspected by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) as a standard method. Vast quantities of image data have to be evaluated. Usual practice for obtaining the fiber diameters is the manually setting of measurement points. The software DiameterJ which runs as plugin in ImageJ automatically computes fiber diameters. Here we investigated its capabilities and limitations by comparing the evaluation of selected sample SEM images of electrospun fibers. In this study the fibers of three examplary images specified by different contrast and fiber morphology were analyzed by using varied segmentation algorithms. The results are displayed in bar charts of frequency distribution. Additionally the computed fiber diameters were compared to manual measurements. Depending on various image properties the segmentation process works more or less reliable, and fault data of incomplete segmented fibers are computed. Often the results are eligible, but frequently DiameterJ generates data resembling to thin fibers, which are not present in the image. In some cases the peaks of fault data are much higher than peaks of real fibers. In consequence misinterpretation of data cannot be avoided. DiameterJ is a validated tool with the ability to generate reliable results. Future work on improving the segmentation algorithms can refine computed evaluation.
Impact of aortic annulus geometry according to ISO 5840:2019 (draft) on hydrodynamic performance of transcatheter aortic valve prostheses
Authors: Oldenburg Jan , Kaule Sebastian , Siewert Stefan , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Stiehm Michael , Grabow Niels
Published: February 2021

To assess the hydrodynamic performance of transcatheter aortic valve prostheses (TAVP), in vitro test using pulse duplicators is required. Test conditions as well as minimum performance criteria are specified in ISO 5840- 3:2013 and ISO 5840-3:2019-draft. In the 2019 published draft, modifications regarding hydrodynamic testing are proposed. Among others, the geometrical configuration of the fixation has changed, with the intention to improve the anatomical representation as well as the comparability of results from different test laboratories. We analyzed the consequences of altered annulus fixations regarding native leaflets as well as a step in the proximal area of the protheses to prevent their migration. The analyses were conducted with regard to the degree of calcification of the annulus ring on hydrodynamic parameters. By using 3D stereolithography printing technology, molds for casting of silicone elastomer of annulus models with and without native leaflets were manufactured. A modular system enabled us to use the same annulus ring to model the degree of calcification as well as different step sizes. We performed in vitro hydrodynamic testing according to ISO 5840-3:2019-draft of a selfexpandable valve prototype with porcine pericardial leaflets by using a commercially available pulse duplicator system. As expected, regurgitation increases with increasing degree of calcification, whereby the use of a step has no influence on the backflow of fluid during diastole. The effective orifice area (EOA) of the valve showed a clear tendency with respect to radial protrusion of the step. The EOA decreased as the radial protrusion increased. We also present a suggestion to prevent migration without affecting the general test results, by using a novel step design. We also found that the novel annulus model with native leaflet drastically reduced the regurgitation.
Adaptable Superfibers as Implant Material
Authors: Illner Sabine , Ortelt Jonathan , Arbeiter Daniela , Khaimov Valeria , Wulf Katharina , Oschatz Stefan , Reske Thomas , Senz Volkmar , Schmitz Klaus- Peter , Grabow Niels
Published: February 2021

Electrospun fiber nonwoven materials of different polymer classes provide promising perspectives in almost all fields of application, including medical science. In this paper we present the fiber generation of selected biostable polymers (PBT, TPC-ET, PA 6.12 and PVDF) by direct electrospinning, as an extremely powerful tool for manufacturing of new superfiber implant materials. This initial study includes the variation of some relevant process parameters, such as polymer concentrations or electrode spacing. The influence on fiber morphology, tensile strength and biocompatibility is shown. The results presented indicate that the choice and combination of materials is crucial for the application on load-bearing implants, independent of the processing technology and thus of the fiber bonding, delamination or fiber strength.
Use of artificial intelligence and neural networks for analysis and gesture detection in electrical impedance tomography
Authors: Gibas Christian , Mülln Luca , Brück Rainer
Published: February 2021

Artificial intelligence and neural networks are getting more and more relevant for several types of application. The field of prosthesis technology currently uses electromyography for controllable prosthesis. The precision of the control suffers from the use of EMG. More precise and more collected data with the help of EIT allows a much more precise analysis and control of the prosthesis. In this paper a neural network for gesture detection using EIT is developed and presented in a user-friendly way.
Quantification of Interpatient 12-lead ECG Variabilities within a Healthy Cohort
Authors: Nagel Claudia , Pilia Nicolas , Loewe Axel , Dössel Olaf
Published: February 2021

The morphology of the electrocardiogram (ECG) varies among different healthy subjects due to anatomical and structural reasons, such as for example the shape of the heart geometry or the position and size of surrounding organs in the torso. Knowledge about these ECG morphology changes could be used to parameterize electrophysiological simulations of the human heart. In this work, we detected the boundaries of ECG waveforms, i.e. the P-wave, the QRS-complex and the T-wave, in 12- lead ECGs from 918 healthy subjects in the Physionet Computing in Cardiology Challenge 2020 Database with the IBT openECG toolbox. Subsequently, we obtained the onset, the peak and the offset of each P-wave, QRS-complex and T-wave in the signal. In this way, the duration of the P-wave, the QRScomplex and the T-wave, the PQ-, RR- and the QT-interval as well as the amplitudes of the P-wave, the Q-, R- and Speak and the T-wave in each lead were extracted from the 918 healthy ECGs. Their statistical distributions and correlation between each other were assessed. The highest variabilities among the 918 healthy subject were found for the RR interval and the amplitudes of the QRScomplex. The highest correlation was observed for feature pairs that represent the same feature in different leads. Especially the R-peak amplitudes showed a strong correlation across different leads. The calculated feature distributions can be used to optimize the parameters of populations of cardiac electrophysiological models. In this way, realistic in-silico generated surface ECGs can be simulated in large scale and could be used as input data for machine learning algorithms for a classification of cardiovascular diseases.
Diagnostic Capabilities of a Smartphone- Based Low-Cost Microscope
Authors: Hasselbeck Dorina , Schäfer Max B. , Stewart Kent W. , Pott Peter P.
Published: February 2021

Microscopy enables fast and effective diagnostics. However, in resource-limited regions microscopy is not accessible to everyone. Smartphone-based low-cost microscopes could be a powerful tool for diagnostic and educational purposes. In this paper, the imaging quality of a smartphone-based microscope with four different optical parameters is presented and a systematic overview of the resulting diagnostic applications is given. With the chosen configuration, aiming for a reasonable trade-off, an average resolution of 1.23 μm and a field of view of 1.12 mm2 was achieved. This enables a wide range of diagnostic applications such as the diagnosis of Malaria and other parasitic diseases.
In Vivo Study on Magnetomotive Ultrasound Imaging in the Framework of Nanoparticle based Magnetic Drug Targeting
Authors: Fink Michael , Rupitsch Stefan J. , Ermert Helmut , Lyer Stefan
Published: February 2021

Various medical procedures make use of magnetic nanoparticles, such as Magnetic Drug Targeting (MDT), which boosts the demand for imaging modalities that are capable of in vivo visualizing this kind of particles. Magnetomotive Ultrasound is an imaging technique that can detect tissue, which is perfused by magnetic nanoparticles. In this contribution, we investigate the suitability of Magnetomotive Ultrasound to serve as a monitoring system during MDT. With the conducted measurements, it was possible for the first time to observe in vivo the accumulation of iron-oxide nanoparticles during a Magnetic Drug Targeting cancer treatment applied to a small animal (rabbit).
Electrode Model and Simulation of His- Bundle Pacing for Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Pascual Domenic , Heinke Matthias , Echle Reinhard , Hörth Johannes
Published: February 2021

A disturbed synchronization of the ventricular contraction can cause a highly developed systolic heart failure in affected patients with reduction of the left ventricular ejection fraction, which can often be explained by a diseased left bundle branch block (LBBB). If medication remains unresponsive, the concerned patients will be treated with a cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) system. The aim of this study was to integrate His-bundle pacing into the Offenburg heart rhythm model in order to visualize the electrical pacing field generated by His-Bundle-Pacing. Modelling and electrical field simulation activities were performed with the software CST (Computer Simulation Technology) from Dessault Systèms. CRT with biventricular pacing is to be achieved by an apical right ventricular electrode and an additional left ventricular electrode, which is floated into the coronary vein sinus. The non-responder rate of the CRT therapy is about one third of the CRT patients. His- Bundle-Pacing represents a physiological alternative to conventional cardiac pacing and cardiac resynchronization. An electrode implanted in the His-bundle emits a stronger electrical pacing field than the electrical pacing field of conventional cardiac pacemakers. The pacing of the Hisbundle was performed by the Medtronic Select Secure 3830 electrode with pacing voltage amplitudes of 3 V, 2 V and 1,5 V in combination with a pacing pulse duration of 1 ms. Compared to conventional pacemaker pacing, His-bundle pacing is capable of bridging LBBB conduction disorders in the left ventricle. The His-bundle pacing electrical field is able to spread via the physiological pathway in the right and left ventricles for CRT with a narrow QRS-complex in the surface ECG.
Is a thin diameter ureteroscope feasible for image guided intravascular procedures?
Authors: Boese Axel , Friebe Michael
Published: February 2021

Vascular endoscopic imaging is known for a long time but has never made its way into clinical routine. Reasons for that are the complexity, lack of low-cost portable systems, and the lack of suitable endoscopes providing high image quality with small dimensions. In addition, an interruption of the blood flow caused by the device and the opacity of blood are difficult to manage. In the past we have already developed ideas to overcome these difficulties and now we present a feasibility test of a thin diameter ureteroscope for observation of vascular procedures. The imaging system was tested in a phantom where side branches were explored, a stent was placed and a simulated aneurysm coiled.
High-Current Neutral Electrodes
Authors: Nessler Norbert
Published: February 2021

The Standard IEC 60601-2-2:2017 refers to neutral electrodes for high current without defining them. This paper suggests a practical distinction criterion between standard and high-current neutral electrodes and a test procedure.
Characterisation of compound middle lamella isolated by a combination of wet-beating, sedimentation, and methanol dialysis
Authors: Matsushita Yasuyuki , Fukumura Taichi , Aoki Dan , Fukushima Kazuhiko
Published: February 2021

A simple method was developed to isolate the compound middle lamella (CML) in its natural state using wet-beating, sedimentation, and methanol dialysis. The isolated CML fraction was characterised. The CML was isolated in 2.0% yield from the mature wood of Ginkgo biloba. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of the isolated CML fraction showed the presence of flake-like structures. However, some small amounts of secondary wall substance was observed. The lignin content of the CML fraction was approximately 45%. Thioacidolysis reactions with the isolated CML fraction revealed that the lignin β-O-4 structure was scarce in the isolated fraction and that numerous structures with two or more consecutive condensed-type bonds were present. Results from the solid-state carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance (13C NMR) experiments indicated that the CML fraction had low crystallinity, indicating low cellulose content. Liquid-state NMR analysis of the lignin from the CML fraction revealed the absence of p-hydroxyphenyl (H) units.
The effect of nuchal umbilical cord on fetal cardiac and cerebral circulation-cross-sectional study
Authors: Murlewska Julia , Sylwestrzak Oskar , Poszwa Przemysław , Respondek-Liberska Maria
Published: February 2021

Objectives

The subject of our analysis is the influence of umbilical cord collision around the fetal neck on the fetal heart function and cerebral circulation.

Methods

Our study was carried out on a group of 115 fetuses from single pregnancies with physiological course, during the 15th to 40th week of pregnancy. In our analysis, we examined the following parameters: Tei index for right ventricle, Tei index for left ventricle with Tei index components: isovolumetric contraction time, isovolumetric relaxation time, ejection time and cardiothoracic area ratio, middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity (PS MCA), middle cerebral artery pulsatility index (PI MCA). Gestational age in our study was: 28+2±34. The study group of patients with fetal umbilical cord around neck group (fUCAN) included 38 fetuses (20 males, 18 females). The control group of patients with no fetal umbilical cord around neck group (NfUCAN) included 77 fetuses (43 males, 34 females).

Results

In our study, we found no significant differences in the values obtained: Tei LV in fUCAN: 0.5±0.1 vs. in NfUCAN: 0.5±0.1; p=0.42), Tei RV in fUCAN: 0.5±0.2 vs. in NfUCAN: 0.4±0.1; (p=0.2). Tricuspid valve regurgitation-TR was observed with the following frequency: fUCAN: 7/38, 18% vs. NfUCAN: 13/77, 17%; p=0.8. MCA PS in study fUCAN group was significantly higher than in NfUCAN (40.2±11.5 vs. 32.5±9.5; p=0.003), although other hemodynamic and clinical variables did not differ between the study and control groups.

Conclusions

The fetal nuchal umbilical cord collision did not affect the fetal heart function expressed as Tei index, at the time of fetal heart examination (at mean gestational age 29+4 weeks). The fUCAN group presented elevated PS MCA, which was not related to other hemodynamic and clinical variables between the study and control groups.
Effects of laser and GMA hybrid welding parameters on shape, residual stress and deformation of HSLA steel welds
Authors: Lu Yongxin , Xu Xueli , Zhang Binhua , Qiang Wei , Lu Hao , Wang Dafeng , Wang Haitao , Wang Zhou
Published: February 2021

As a high-efficiency and high-quality welding process, hybrid laser-MAG welding (HLMW) has significant potential of application in welding thick plates. In the present study, based on thermal elastic–plastic theory, a three-dimensional finite element model is developed to predict the weld shape characteristics, residual stress and distortion in HLMW for a butt joint of 12-mm-thick high strength steel plate. Metal active gas arc welding (MAG) heat input and laser energy are modeled as one double-ellipsoid body heat source and one cone body heat source with enhanced peak density along the central axis, respectively. The comparison between calculated molten pool shapes and those obtained by the experiment shows a good agreement. Then weld shape characteristic, residual stresses and distortions are calculated in four different welding process parameters. The results show that the increase of laser power and current can effectively increase the weld penetration width when the welding speed is fixed. At the top surfaces of weldment, the peak stress of high laser beam power is more significant than that of low laser beam power. A high compressive transverse stress of low laser beam power can be found at the welding zone and the surrounding heat affected zone. However, at the bottom surfaces of weldment, the peak stress of low laser beam power is larger than that of high laser beam power. The peak stress of low laser beam power is much larger than that of high laser beam power. A high compressive transverse stress of low laser beam power can be found at the welding zone. The vertical deformation in low laser beam power and low arc current welding has the lowest value.
Structure redetermination of dextromethorphan hydrobromide monohydrate, C18H28BrNO2 – localization of hydrogen atoms
Authors: Muller Kina , Hosten Eric C. , Betz Richard
Published: February 2021

C18H28BrNO2, orthorhombic, P212121 (no. 19), a = 7.0417(4) Å, b = 9.1635(5) Å, c = 27.3371(15) Å, V = 1763.97(17) Å3, Z = 4, R

gt
(F) = 0.0275, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.0596, T = 200 K.
Current practice and perceptions of safety protocols for the use of intraperitoneal chemotherapy in the operating room: results of the IP-OR international survey
Authors: Clerc Daniel , Hübner Martin , Ashwin K.R. , Somashekhar S.P. , Rau Beate , Ceelen Wim , Willaert Wouter , Bakrin Naoual , Laplace Nathalie , Al Hosni Mohammed , Garcia Lozcano Edgar Luis , Blaj Sebastian , Piso Pompiliu , Di Giorgio Andrea , Vizzelli Giuseppe , Brigand Cécile , Delhorme Jean-Baptiste , Klipfel Amandine , Archid Rami , Nadiradze Giorgi , Reymond Marc A. , Sgarbura Olivia
Published: February 2021

Objectives

To assess the risk perception and the uptake of measures preventing environment-related risks in the operating room (OR) during hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) and pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC).

Methods

A multicentric, international survey among OR teams in high-volume HIPEC and PIPAC centers: Surgeons (Surg), Scrub nurses (ScrubN), Anesthesiologists (Anest), Anesthesiology nurses (AnesthN), and OR Cleaning staff (CleanS). Scores extended from 0–10 (maximum).

Results

Ten centers in six countries participated in the study (response rate 100%). Two hundred and eleven responses from 68 Surg (32%), 49 ScrubN (23%), 45 Anest (21%), 31 AnesthN (15%), and 18 CleanS (9%) were gathered. Individual uptake of protection measures was 51.4%, similar among professions and between HIPEC and PIPAC. Perceived levels of protection were 7.57 vs. 7.17 for PIPAC and HIPEC, respectively (p<0.05), with Anesth scoring the lowest (6.81). Perceived contamination risk was 4.19 for HIPEC vs. 3.5 for PIPAC (p<0.01). Information level was lower for CleanS and Anesth for HIPEC and PIPAC procedures compared to all other responders (6.48 vs. 4.86, and 6.48 vs. 5.67, p<0.01). Willingness to obtain more information was 86%, the highest among CleanS (94%).

Conclusions

Experience with the current practice of safety protocols was similar during HIPEC and PIPAC. The individual uptake of protection measures was rather low. The safety perception was better for PIPAC, but the perceived level of protection remained relatively low. The willingness to obtain more information was high. Intensified, standardized training of all OR team members involved in HIPEC and PIPAC is meaningful.
Risks associated with the evolution in the compounding process of parenteral nutrition solutions: use of the “FMECA” method
Authors: Dozias Gautier , Thiec Julie , Le Den Gwenola , Cogulet Virginie
Published: February 2021

Objectives

An audit of the practices of our compounding unit was performed in 2016: areas of improvement were proposed, such as the automatization of our process. An automated compounder was acquired (MediMixmulti® MF4120R). The aim of the study was to anticipate the risks of the new process, in order to improve its security and to support the professionals during this evolution of our compounding process.

Methods

The Failure Modes, Effects and Criticality Analysis (FMECA) method was carried out in order to detect potential failures brought by the automatization of parenteral nutrition (PN) manufacturing in the new process. The FMECA method included four steps that were divided into five work sessions of one and a half hour each over a period of two months. A working group made up of professionals involved in the PN production process was set up (pharmacists, pharmacy resident, manager and pharmaceutical technician).

Results

Fifty failure modes were determined by this analysis, of which 96% could have an impact on the patient, 90% on the health staff and 74% on the product. The FMECA shows that 18 failure modes have a tolerable or unacceptable CI (CI≥100) for which it is necessary to implement preventive measures as a priority. This work also made it possible to review the barrier measures already in place for the current process.

Conclusions

The risk analysis allowed us to analyze the failures of both the actual and the future manufacturing processes. Once the most critical failure modes were identified, specific recommendations were proposed and an improvement plan was established. First, the compounder needs to be fully qualified. Then, the quality manual of the PN process will be reviewed and updated. Once these steps are completed, the pharmacy professionals (pharmacists, pharmacy technicians) will be trained and the PN production will be performed using the automated compounder on a daily basis.
Earthen mounds in the Głubczyce Forest (SW Poland) – are they prehistoric long-barrows? Geoarchaeology of the Silesian soil record and human-environment interplay in the Holocene
Authors: Krupski Mateusz , Mackiewicz Maksym , Kabała Cezary , Ehlert Maciej , Cendrowska Marzena
Published: February 2021

Two earthen mounds, trapezoid in shape, oriented along the W-E/NW-SE axis and located in prominent landscape positions, were recently discovered in the Głubczyce Forest in the loess area of the Głubczyce Plateau (SW Poland). Their resemblance to long-barrows of the Funnel Beaker culture, as yet unknown in this part of Silesia prompted low-invasive research, involving ALS data analysis, magnetic prospection and a study of soil properties. The objective was to determine if these are indeed anthropogenic structures and if so, how and when were they built. The results indicate: 1) a transformation from chernozemic (Phaeozem) to clay-illuvial soil (Luvisol/Retisol) in the Głubczyce Forest area. Similar processes were identified in neighbouring Central European loess regions and linked with prehistoric climate/vegetation changes (the spread of dense, beech-dominant forests). Human management of the landscape (involving sustained deforestation), enabled the patchy preservation of chernozemic soils until the present-day, 2) both mounds are anthropogenic features, built on a Phaeozem using chernozemic soil. Their construction occurred before the soil transformation, i.e. most likely in prehistory. The development of the Głubczyce Forest may have taken place during the Migration period – a time of settlement decline in Silesia, and 3) the Głubczyce Forest bears further traces of anthropogenic activity: ancient agriculture (field systems), funerary practices, forest management and WWII combat.
Understanding and translating Confucian philosophy in the Analects: a sociosemiotic perspective
Authors: Min Fan
Published: February 2021

As the representative of Chinese classical works, the Analects represents a source of difficulty in both understanding and interpretation of Confucian philosophy. Confucian philosophy as a philosophy of creativity and otherness is closely related with the social and cultural values in society. Therefore, the study of Confucian philosophy in the Analects cannot be separated from the descriptive study of the effects of any and all aspects of society, including cultural norms, expectations, contexts, language use, and the effects of language use on society. This article attempts to explore how the meaning of Confucian philosophy in the Analects is interpreted and accepted by Western readers through complex social semiotic interactions. The article focuses on the interpretation of Confucian philosophy as a reflection of cultural assumptions, values and prohibitions, and the manipulation of the social semiotic resources in the process of understanding, translation, and acceptance of Confucian philosophy in the Analects through a discussion of its original text, different versions and the reasons behind the social semiotic activities. The article concludes with a consideration of significant social semiotic interactions that influence the translator’s interpretation and reader’s acceptance of Confucian philosophy so as to facilitate intercultural understanding.
Entre Lo insólito y lo extraño: nuevas perspectivas analíticas de la literatura fantástica hispanoamericana
Authors: Psanchezaramburu Patricia Sánchez Aramburu
Published: February 2021

Conformado por 17 artículos, este libro testimonia la gran diversidad de perspectivas analíticas con las que la comunidad crítica está abordando la literatura fantástica y sus categorías limítrofes, una tradición que florece en nuestra región desde el siglo XIX hasta las primeras décadas del siglo XXI.
Sobre los autores
Authors: Ficha Sobre los autores
Published: February 2021

Sobre los autores
Remembering Hudson-70
Authors: Gordon Donald C.
Published: February 2021

Hudson-70 was the last big multidisciplinary global oceanographic expedition. Organized by the Bedford Institute of Oceanography (BIO), based in Nova Scotia, this epic eleven-month voyage lasted from November 1969 to October 1970, involved 128 scientists from five countries, and traversed five oceans. Enroute, the CSS Hudson steamed 56,000 nautical miles and became the first ship to circumnavigate the Americas. A huge amount of new oceanographic information in all disciplines was collected in environments ranging from tropical to polar. Major highlights are summarized. General overviews of the expedition were published in three books and the results of individual studies were reported in over 50 scientific publications. Hudson-70 was a major Canadian oceanographic accomplishment, truly worthy of celebrating fifty years later.
Snapshot picture of microplastic pollution in Halifax Regional Municipality
Authors: Teddiman Rebecca
Published: February 2021

Microplastic pollution is a pervasive problem. Many species have been found to ingest microplastics and this poses a risk to biodiversity (Fauna and Flora International, 2013). In Nova Scotia, there are few quantitative data on microplastic pollution. As quantifying microplastic pollution has only recently attained attention in Nova Scotia, no standardized methods for collection and analysis have been established. This project, although limited in scope, identified and quantified microplastic pollution on McNabs Island and Lake Banook beaches using established sampling and processing methods. The samples were evaluated using a combination of density separation, microscopic identification and RamanTM spectroscopy. This provided information to compare with other research. Keywords: Biodiversity, Microplastic Filtration SystemTM, Microplastic pollution, Nova Scotia
Discerning Experts. The Practices of Scientific Assessment for Environmental Policy
Authors: Stewart Ian G.
Published: February 2021

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The Bologna Process and the Law on Higher Education and Science
Authors: Skinder Marcin
Published: February 2021

The subject of the study is the Bologna Process, its assumptions and course. The article contains an analysis of the Act on university education and science in order to indicate solutions for the harmonization in Poland under the Bologna movement. This movement is characterized as an example of European integration (harmonization) in the sphere of higher education, which was initiated by the Bologna Declaration of 19 June 1999. The main idea behind this declaration was the joint creation of the European Higher Education Area. The process initiated then goes beyond the scope of activities undertaken only by European Union governments. The analysis covers the following parts: The scope of the Bologna Process, Further European actors and the Sorbonne Declaration, The Bologna Process today, Implementation barriers was well as criticism. An integral part of the work is the Bologna Process and the Constitution for Science (Law on university education and science).
Implementation of Multicultural Values in Diversity of a Multiethnic School (A Case Study: Kuncup Melati Junior High School, Semarang)
Authors: Rizqiyawati Ika , Rusdarti Rusdarti , Eko Pramono Suwito
Published: February 2021

Kuncup Melati Junior High School (JHS) is a multiethnic school whose students come from Chinese and Javanese ethnic groups. Both groups have a negative stereotype towards one another and often engage in conflicts. The school opens a room for discussion for both groups, proving that both can coexist in diversity. This study aims to analyze the symbolic interactionism and the implementation of multicultural values. Data analysis technique used were qualitative technique, borrowing the symbolic interactionism theory of Herbert Blumer. The informants were the teachers, the Chinese students, and Javanese students. The data collection technique employed in-depth interview, observation, and documentation study. The results revealed that the symbolic interactionism between two groups can be interpreted from multiethnic friendship and understanding of each other’s culture and religion. This can reduce the stereotype between two groups, and in turn, result in respect from one another. The heterogeneous school environment showcasing the implementation of respect for one another is indirectly internalized in students’ behavior. Multicultural values found in Kuncup Melati JHS are tolerance, solidarity, and equality. This study recommends to open a more diverse multietchnic and multifaith interaction because multicultural values cannot only be taught in class, but rather have to be experienced personally.
The Relationship between Parents' Learning Motivation and Socio-Economic Status with Science Learning Achievement
Authors: Krido Bangun Nugroho Dwi Kodrat , Raharjo Tri Joko , Utomo Udi
Published: February 2021

Motivation has a strategic role in one's learning activities; besides, parents' socio-economic conditions also affect the educational process. This study aimed to find out the relationship between learning motivation and socio-economic status of parents with science learning achievement. This research used post facto method with a quantitative research design. The research data from 85 students was taken using questionnaires and tests. Testing the instrument was done by testing the validity and reliability testing. The data analysis technique used descriptive analysis, analysis prerequisite test, hypothesis testing. The results showed a relationship between learning motivation and parents’ socio-economic status that affected science learning achievement. The results of the linearity test showed that the learning motivation Fcount was 0.664 > 0.05, the economic status of the parents was 0.977 > 0.05, so the learning motivation and economic status of the parents towards learning achievement were linear. The results of hypothesis testing using the t test obtained t count of 4,875 and t table of 1,988, then t count > t table. It can be concluded that partially the motivation to learn and parents' socio-economic status has a strong relationship with science learning achievement.
Development of Maritime Insight Learning Tools for Ocean Literacy in Children Aged 5-6 Years Old
Authors: Sahriana Nanang , Suminar Tri , Sugiyo Pranoto Yuli Kurniawati
Published: February 2021

Indonesia as an archipelagic country should be introduced to early childhood. Therefore, it is necessary to develop maritime insight learning tools for children in coastal areas. The objectives of this research were to develop maritime insight learning tools for ocean literacy in children aged 5-6 years old and to analyze the effectiveness of the learning tools. The learning tools were in the form of semester program, weekly and daily lesson plan, teaching materials, and learning media and were developed by following the conditions and characteristics of the coastal areas. Research & Development with one group pretest-posttest design were conducted in six kindergartens with 80 students at Konawe Utara Regency, Southeast Sulawesi. The research also involved education experts, practitioners, and teachers of that areas as research subjects. Data collection instruments used were observation sheets, questionnaires, tests, and documentation. The results showed that the maritime insight learning tools is valid for use. The result of trials with t-test showed there were an increase in the ocean literacy skills of students after using maritime insight learning tools with n-Gain scores of 0.69 with the category medium on a limited scale trial and 0.70 with the high category in wide scale trial. It concluded that development of the maritime insight learning tools was effective for improving ocean literacy in children aged 5-6 years old
Readers' Reception of Satin Merah Detective Novel as a Literary Learning Material in Senior High School
Authors: Sasongko Tegar Sulistya , Supriyanto Teguh , Doyin Mukh
Published: February 2021

Literary learning materials are one of the important components used by teachers in learning activities. Good learning materials can help students achieve learning goals. Sources of literature learning materials tend to focus on reference books from the government. Even though there are still many literary learning materials that can be used, one is novel. The research objective was to describe the teacher's response to Satin Merah's novel by Brahmanto Anindito and Rie Yanti as literary learning material at Senior High School. This research uses a pragmatic approach. The research is based on the reception of Indonesian language teachers at the Senior High School level on the feasibility of a novel based on the feasibility assessment of the BSNP in terms of content, language, and presentation. This study indicates that Satin Merah's novel's feasibility level is 82.5%, which means that this novel is feasible and has a good reputation as literary learning material at Senior High School. The feasibility results are shown in terms of content feasibility of 84.2%, language feasibility of 81.5%, and presentation feasibility of 82%. In terms of content, this novel develops self-potential, has creativity and depth of story, and develops readers' characters to love and preserve local culture. In terms of language, the language used is following Indonesian rules and according to the target audience. In terms of presentation, this novel pays attention to the building blocks and mostly develops characters and inspires readers.
Las concepciones ontológicas como punto de acceso a las ciencias sociales y sus diversas perspectivas metodológicas
Authors: Soto Kiewit Luis Diego
Published: February 2021

Este artículo propone la lectura de las concepciones ontológicas como una forma de acercamiento y acceso a las distancias y discrepancias de las diversas perspectivas de las ciencias sociales. El objetivo es identificar cómo las distancias epistemológicas y metodológicas pueden ser entendidas desde la noción de realidad en la que se sustentan las propuestas de conocimiento. La reflexión incluye un diálogo con dos perspectivas metodológicas de las ciencias sociales, esto con el objetivo de ejemplificar cómo los fundamentos ontológicos permiten comprender afirmaciones o posturas en niveles reflexivos más abstractos, que acá llamaremos: niveles superiores. Para este ejercicio demostrativo se toma en cuenta al estructuralismo constructivista y posestructuralismo.