bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
About Metallicity Variations in the Local Galactic Interstellar Medium
Authors: Esteban C. , Méndez-Delgado J. E. , García-Rojas J. , Arellano-Córdova K. Z.
Published: May 2022

In this paper we discuss and confront recent results on metallicity variations in the local interstellar medium, obtained from observations of H ii regions and neutral clouds of the Galactic thin disk, and compare them with recent high-quality metallicity determinations of other tracers of the chemical composition of the interstellar medium as B-type stars, classical Cepheids, and young clusters. We find that the metallicity variations obtained for these last kinds of objects are consistent with each other and with that obtained for H ii regions but significantly smaller than those obtained for neutral clouds. We also discuss the presence of a large population of low-metallicity clouds as the possible origin for large metallicity variations in the local Galactic thin disk. We find that such a hypothesis does not seem compatible with: (a) what is predicted by theoretical studies of gas mixing in galactic disks, and (b) the models and observations on the metallicity of high-velocity clouds and their evolution as they mix with the surrounding medium in their fall onto the Galactic plane. We conclude that most of the evidence favors that the chemical composition of the interstellar medium in the solar neighborhood is highly homogeneous.
Observations of Current Sheet Heating in X-Ray during a Solar Flare
Authors: Reva A. A , Bogachev S. A. , Loboda I. P. , Ulyanov A. S. , Kirichenko A. S.
Published: May 2022

In the solar corona, magnetic reconnection occurs due to the finite resistivity of the plasma. At the same time, this resistivity leads to ohmic heating. Therefore, the reconnecting current sheet should heat the surrounding plasma. This paper presents experimental evidence of such plasma heating being caused by magnetic reconnection. We observed the effect during a C1.4 solar flare on 2003 February 16 at the active region NOAA 10278, near the solar limb. Thanks to such a location, we successfully identified all the principal elements of the flare: the flare arcade, the flux rope, and, most importantly, the presumed position of the current sheet. By analyzing the monochromatic X-ray images of the Sun obtained by the CORONAS-F/SPIRIT instrument in the Mg xii 8.42 Å spectral line, we detected a high-temperature (T ≥ 4 MK) emission at the predicted location of the current sheet. The high-temperature emission appeared during the CME’s impulsive acceleration phase. We believe that this additionally confirms that the plasma heating around the current sheet and the magnetic reconnection inside the current sheet are strongly connected.
GRB 211227A as a Peculiar Long Gamma-Ray Burst from a Compact Star Merger
Authors: Lü Hou-Jun , Yuan Hao-Yu , Yi Ting-Feng , Wang Xiang-Gao , Hu You-Dong , Yuan Yong , Rice Jared , Wang Jian-Guo , Cao Jia-Xin , Kong De-Feng , Fernandez-García Emilio , Castro-Tirado Alberto J. , Lian Ji-Shun , Gan Wen-Pei , Wang Shan-Qin , Xin Li-Ping , Caballero-García M. D. , Fan Yu-Feng , Liang En-Wei
Published: May 2022

Long-duration gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) associated with supernovae (SNe) are believed to originate from massive star core-collapse events, whereas short-duration GRBs that are related to compact star mergers are expected to be accompanied by kilonovae. GRB 211227A, which lasted about 84 s, had an initial short/hard spike followed by a series of soft gamma-ray extended emission at redshift z = 0.228. We performed follow-up observations of the optical emission using BOOTES, LCOGT, and the Lijiang 2.4 m telescope, but we detected no associated supernova signature, even down to very stringent limits at such a low redshift. We observed the host galaxy within a large error circle and roughly estimated the physical offset of GRB 211227A as 20.47 ± 14.47 kpc from the galaxy center. These properties are similar to those of GRB 060614, and suggest that the progenitor of GRB 211227A is not favored to be associated with the death of massive stars. Hence, we propose that GRB 211227A originates from a compact star merger. Calculating pseudo-kilonova emission for this case by adopting the typical parameters, we find that any associated pseudo-kilonova is too faint to be detected. If this is the case, it explains naturally the characteristics of the prompt emission, the lack of SN and kilonova emission, and the large physical offset from the galaxy center.
Avant le « temps de travail » industriel, des « rythmes du labeur »
Authors: Souchier Côme
Published: May 2022

Il est problématique de parler de « temps de travail » en France avant l’industrialisation : dans cette économie essentiellement agricole, le salariat est très minoritaire, la pluriactivité courante, la législation nationale absente. Plus que de « temps de travail », il faut donc envisager des « rythmes du labeur » variables selon les occupations, les lieux et les périodes de l’année. Pour saisir les principales caractéristiques de ces « rythmes du labeur », nous nous intéressons d’abord à leurs intrications avec les rythmes naturels (soleil, saisons), puis avec les rythmes religieux (heures canoniales, dimanche, fêtes), avant d’aborder la question du salariat et de l’exigence capitaliste de productivité qui font émerger progressivement la signification moderne du « temps de travail ».
L’arbitrage travail-loisir : concilier les temps sociaux pour maximiser sa satisfaction ?
Authors: Amberny-Chevalier Diane , Clerc Marion
Published: May 2022

Cet encadré examine l’allocation d’une ressource rare : le temps. Il revient sur les fondements microéconomiques de l’arbitrage travail-loisir, avant de s’intéresser à la répartition du travail domestique et salarié au sein des couples.
De la valeur économique du temps
Authors: Gardes François
Published: May 2022

La contrainte de temps qui s’impose à tout agent économique s’accompagne d’une valeur positive du temps disponible. Son estimation est opérée par une généralisation du modèle d’allocation de Becker au cas d’un coût d’opportunité du temps propre à chaque agent. Diverses applications sur données françaises et américaines sont discutées au niveau microéconomique pour expliquer les choix des ménages et au niveau macroéconomique lors de la conception des politiques publiques.
Le problème contemporain de l’héritage : des temporalités en tension
Authors: Bastin Marie
Published: May 2022

Le retour de l’héritage dans la constitution de patrimoine depuis le dernier tiers du xx e  siècle appelle une réflexion normative renouvelée. Cette dernière peut être formulée comme une tension entre deux logiques normatives distinctes : une logique de la transmission et une logique de la redistribution. Selon la première, qui raisonne sur l’espace d’une seule génération, il est juste de pouvoir transmettre librement sa richesse à ses enfants, en vertu de la nature spécifique du lien qui les unit. Selon la seconde, qui prend en compte le temps long, il faut limiter l’héritage pour lutter contre la reproduction et l’intensification des inégalités sociales. Une grande partie des difficultés posées par le problème contemporain de l’héritage repose sur la conciliation de ces deux perspectives temporelles.
Réflexions sur l’instabilité et la résilience des économies de marché : le temps retrouvé
Authors: Gaffard Jean-Luc
Published: May 2022

L’instabilité intrinsèque des économies de marché procède à la fois de l’irréversibilité des investissements et de l’incertitude sur les technologies et préférences futures qui sont autant de marqueurs du temps dans l’économie. La résilience de ces économies est le résultat de mécanismes institutionnels touchant à la gouvernance des entreprises, à l’organisation de la finance et à l’intervention publique qui permettent aux différents acteurs de se projeter dans le temps long.
La durabilité au prisme des temporalités impensées
Authors: Ruwet Coline
Published: May 2022

Le temps est central dans la définition du développement durable. Pourtant, ce concept n’intègre pas la multiplicité et la complexité de l’enchevêtrement des temporalités au cœur de nos interactions avec le vivant. L’approche réaliste et pluridisciplinaire, proposée par les théories socio-écologiques du temps, nous invite à sortir de l’idéal de contrôle et de la rhétorique de l’urgence qui sont au cœur de la définition institutionnelle du « développement durable », afin d’y introduire la complexité des effets du temps dans les décisions et les actions politiques.
Rapport au futur et pression sociale au Burkina Faso : des freins à l’assurance agricole et au développement rural
Authors: Le Cotty Tristan
Published: May 2022

La relation des acteurs économiques à leur futur est fondamentale dans le développement économique des nations, qui repose à la fois sur leur confiance dans l’avenir et sur leur conviction que leurs investissements présents auront un impact positif à long terme. L’assurance formelle peut réduire les incertitudes sur le futur, mais elle est peu développée en Afrique subsaharienne. Plusieurs facteurs expliquent cela, comme le rapport au temps (l’assurance reflète une certaine préférence pour le futur et pas seulement une aversion au risque), et les normes sociales protectrices mais aussi contraignantes qui peuvent jouer contre la réussite économique individuelle. Les conditions favorables au développement incluent la limitation des risques, mais dépendent aussi des normes sociales qui encouragent plus ou moins l’émancipation d’individualités économiques, ce qui peut être un frein au Burkina Faso et dans d’autres pays d’Afrique.
« Autrefois on avait un avenir. » Temporalités, incertitude et déclin minier en Roumanie
Authors: Grecu Maria Voichiţa
Published: May 2022

L’activité extractive génère des perceptions du temps et des attentes spécifiques quant à ses effets sur la vie des travailleurs. Cet article retrace la trajectoire du groupe des mineurs de fond de Roumanie en mettant en regard trois configurations d’incertitude qui éclairent la transformation conjointe des conditions matérielles et symboliques de vie et des horizons d’attente des mineurs.
Les fictions comme moteur du capitalisme
Authors: Beckert Jens
Published: May 2022

Le capitalisme se caractérise par son orientation vers l’avenir. Les actions des agents économiques reposent sur des « anticipations fictionnelles », qui permettent de faire face à l’incertitude. Lorsqu’elles perdent leur force de conviction, elles peuvent être à l’origine de crises. Contrôler ces fictions est donc un enjeu politique majeur.
La sphère intérieure. Usage des figures astronomiques dans les traités de Charles de Bovelles
Authors: Le Gouge Thomas
Published: May 2022

De ses premiers manuels publiés dans les années 1500 avec Lefèvre d’Etaples aux traités sur l’immortalité de l’âme et la résurrection de la chair des années 1550, Charles de Bovelles a manifesté un intérêt constant pour la géométrie. Dans le recueil publié par Henri Estienne à Paris en 1511 de nombreuses figures illustrent en effet ses traités. Cet article porte sur les figures astronomiques du Livre du sens et du Livre du sage que Bovelles puise dans la tradition du De sphaera de Sacrobosco. En confrontant ses analyses des sens et de l’âme avec des schémas cosmologiques, il comprend le fonctionnement de la pensée à la lumière de la géométrie de l’univers ; il superpose des structures géométriques d’abord élaborées pour représenter la terre et le ciel à sa compréhension du phénomène physique de la perception par les sens ou de la vision divine. Il procède en ce sens à une intériorisation : la sphère de l’univers devient comme une image de la pensée, une sphère intérieure. Nous nous appuierons sur un exemplaire coloré du volume de 1511 et interrogerons la place que joue l’image dans la philosophie de Bovelles notamment par son interprétation singulière de l’horizon.
Les mobilisations autour de l’extractivisme. Circulation et potentiel heuristique d’un concept en voie de globalisation
Authors: Allain Mathilde , Maillet Antoine
Published: May 2022

Les activités extractives, au cœur des modes de vie et de l’économie politique contemporains, sont l’objet dans le monde entier d’importantes mobilisations sociales. Pour traiter ensemble les dimensions globales et locales du phénomène, nous proposons d’étendre le concept d’extractivisme au-delà de son contexte latino-américain initial. Une approche comparée multi-scalaire et orientée vers le global permet d’incorporer de manière féconde les leçons de l’écologie politique dans les recherches sur les mobilisations de l’extractivisme, comme le montrent les différents articles de ce numéro. Leur lecture croisée met en exergue plusieurs aspects centraux de ces mobilisations : l’intérêt du concept d’extractivisme pour analyser un processus global, la dimension multi-scalaire des analyses des mobilisations, le décentrement du cadrage environnemental de l’action collective et la relation entre entreprises extractives et mobilisations.
Extraire la ressource, s’extraire du conflit. Réguler la surexploitation des mines et des eaux souterraines au Maroc
Authors: Mayaux Pierre-Louis , Rousseau Max
Published: May 2022

Contrairement à ce qui peut s’observer en Amérique Latine, les conflits de l’extractivisme demeurent rares au Maroc. Une paix sociale relative prévaut dans de nombreux secteurs primaires. Lorsqu’ils gagnent en intensité, les conflits associés à ce régime d’accumulation restent cadrés, pour l’essentiel, comme des conflits d’extraction qui ne remettent pas en cause la légitimité même d’une utilisation maximale des ressources naturelles. La comparaison de l’exploitation minière avec celle des eaux souterraines (agriculture intensive) amène ainsi à identifier deux préconditions des mobilisations anti-extractivistes. En premier lieu, la polarisation économique suscitée par ces activités doit être suffisamment marquée pour permettre l’émergence d’une identité collective de subalternes (une polarisation observable historiquement dans les mines, et aujourd’hui dans les territoires miniers, mais pas dans l’agriculture). En second lieu, des politiques territoriales de diversification économique doivent être déjà conduites, qui rendent socialement imaginable la perspective d’un développement non-extractiviste (ce qui n’est guère le cas, ni pour les mines, ni pour l’agriculture irriguée). Le dépaysement de la problématique extractive au Maroc invite ainsi à s’interroger sur les préconditions économiques et politiques des mouvements anti-extractivistes, mais aussi sur l’articulation de ces préconditions.
Geochemistry of mercury in soils and water sediments
Authors: Ignatavičius Gytautas , Unsal Murat H. , Busher Peter E. , Wołkowicz Stanisław , Satkūnas Jonas , Šulijienė Giedrė , Valskys Vaidotas
Published: May 2022

Our paper reviews the current understanding of mercury in the environment of soil and sediment, including sampling, mobilization phases and analyzing methods. As a dangerous trace element, mercury has been shown to have several harmful effects on the environment. Mercury is released into the environment in a variety of chemical forms by both geogenic and human activities, with the majority of it coming from anthropogenic sources. It is affected by environmental conditions such as pH, redox potential, light and temperature-all of which determine its final chemical form-reactivity and toxicity. Methylmercury is considered one of the most poisonous forms found in nature. Considering the methodologies of the studies carried out we have found that the best technique for preserving methylmercury in soil and sediment samples is to freeze it immediately after collection. Organically rich soils are related to higher total mercury levels. Plants, such as Solanum nigrum (BR3) and Cynodon dactylon (BR2), can play an important role in mercury transport and accumulation. Solid-phase selenium causes faster demethylation and slower methylation of mercury. Methylmercury can increase by climate change and thawing; arctic permafrost is a potential source of Hg. Chemical vapor generation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry was used to develop a simple and quick method for measuring methylmercury; ultrasonic agitation and HNO3 were used for the process, the last of which proved to be the most efficient for selective extraction of methylmercury.
On the $ C $-flatness and injectivity of character modules
Authors: Huang Zhaoyong
Published: May 2022

Let $ R, S $ be arbitrary associative rings and $ _RC_S $ a semidualizing bimodule. We give some equivalent characterizations for $ R $ being left coherent (and right perfect) rings, left Noetherian rings and left Artinian rings in terms of the $ C $-($ {\mathop{{{\text{FP}}}}\nolimits} $-)injectivity, flatness and projectivity of character modules of certain left $ S $-modules.
Determination of the location of the needle entry point based on an improved pruning algorithm
Authors: Zhang Guangyuan , Gao Xiaonan , Zhu Zhenfang , Zhou Fengyv , Yu Dexin
Published: May 2022

Since the emergence of new coronaviruses and their variant virus, a large number of medical resources around the world have been put into treatment. In this case, the purpose of this article is to develop a handback intravenous intelligence injection robot, which reduces the direct contact between medical staff and patients and reduces the risk of infection. The core technology of hand back intravenous intelligent robot is a handlet venous vessel detection and segmentation and the position of the needle point position decision. In this paper, an image processing algorithm based on U-Net improvement mechanism (AT-U-Net) is proposed for core technology. It is investigated using a self-built dorsal hand vein database and the results show that it performs well, with an F1-score of 93.91%. After the detection of a dorsal hand vein, this paper proposes a location decision method for the needle entry point based on an improved pruning algorithm (PT-Pruning). The extraction of the trunk line of the dorsal hand vein is realized through this algorithm. Considering the vascular cross-sectional area and bending of each vein injection point area, the optimal injection point of the dorsal hand vein is obtained via a comprehensive decision-making process. Using the self-built dorsal hand vein injection point database, the accuracy of the detection of the effective injection area reaches 96.73%. The accuracy for the detection of the injection area at the optimal needle entry point is 96.50%, which lays a foundation for subsequent mechanical automatic injection.
Lin Rufa (1936–2022)
Authors: Ikeda Kiyokazu , Ikeda Sayoko , Yan Chai
Published: May 2022

Lin Rufa, an outstanding scientist on buckwheat, passed away on 23 February 2022. He lived on the age of 85 years. He was born on (...)
Simulación de estrategias bioclimáticas concretas con el objetivo de poner en valor los diseños de la arquitectura tradicional. Caso de estudio: la inercia térmica en El Valle
Authors: Montalbán Pozas Beatriz , Serrano Francisco
Published: May 2022

En este artículo se aporta una metodología para evaluar la eficiencia energética que aportan las estrategias bioclimáticas de las viviendas vernáculas. El caso de estudio ha sido el Valle del Jerte (Cáceres) con unas tres mil viviendas tradicionales. En primer lugar, se han definido tres tipologías constructivas, y posteriormente se ha simulado específicamente el comportamiento energético de la estrategia de la inercia térmica, proporcionada por los muros de piedra de la envolvente de los edificios, y por la tierra en contacto con la planta baja. En las simulaciones fueron eliminados los elementos masivos para analizar las diferencias en las condiciones higrotérmicas y los intercambios energéticos, tanto de calentamiento como de enfriamiento. Los resultados indican que esta estrategia es beneficiosa, ya que estabiliza las temperaturas interiores respecto a las oscilaciones exteriores, acercándolas a las medias diurnas, más agradables. Identificar las estrategias bioclimáticas permite proponer la valorización de elementos vernáculos.
Ultrasonic Welding of Cu Alloy Connectors and Conductors Used in the Automotive Industry
Authors: Dobrin Emilia , Sîrbu Nicuşor Alin , Mnerie Gabriela-Victoria , Duma Iuliana
Published: May 2022

This paper aims to highlight the advantages of using the ultrasonic welding process to join Cu alloy connector with Cu conductor wire, materials that are widely used in the automotive industry. Ultrasonic welding is a “cold”, ecological joining process, which does not produce noxious substances and is of great interest for subassembly manufacturers operating in today’s circular economy. In order to optimize the functional parameters for the connector and conductor wire in question, we use a sonotrode (active tool) made of tool steel, at the operating frequency of 20kHz, designed and executed in INCD ISIM Timișoara; experiments were undertaken to define the welding technology parameters for the materials subjected to the experimental investigation. The results were interpreted after the execution of NDT and destructive tests, namely: visual analysis, microscopic and macroscopic investigations; hardness tests.
Recent Progress on Single-Crystal Growth and Epitaxial Growth of 4H Silicon Carbide
Authors: Liu Yi Lin
Published: May 2022

The review article describes the recent progress on SiC single-crystal and epitaxial growth technology. SiC is a third-generation semiconducting material with wide bandgap and high electrical breakdown field. Thanks to its excellent properties, it becomes an advantageous material in the field of high-temperature and high-power electronic device applications. Power devices fabricated of SiC are able to be operated at higher power density and higher switching frequency. This review focus on the growth, doping control and defect control of SiC single-crystal ingot and epilayer. The process of PVT, CVD, defect control, doping control and some recent applications of SiC are described. Various types of defects are described, including Micropipes, Dislocations, Stacking Faults etc. The wafering and polishing technology are also described.
Experimental Study on the Estimation of the Life of some Metal Constructions of Major Importance
Authors: Mnerie Gabriela-Victoria , Duma Iuliana , Popescu Radu Nicolae
Published: May 2022

In many cases it is considered appropriate to estimate, as accurately as possible, the remaining life for various metal constructions, especially when they are of major importance. By estimating as accurately as possible, the risks of yielding during operation, or even causing catastrophes, can be reduced. In order to make this estimate, various investigations are needed on the critical areas established in initial design, or determined during operation. Out of the desire to find ways to improve the procedures applied and to provide more certainty to the conclusions resulting from the technical reports prepared, the paper presents and critically analyzes such a procedure applied to a specific case. Following the analysis, several observations and technical and methodological proposals for improvement are presented, in line with current scientific and technological developments.
Effect of Zn/Mg Ratio on Microstructure Evolution of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu Alloys during Homogenization
Authors: Yin He , Li Zhi Hui , Yan Li Zhen , Liu Hong Wei
Published: May 2022

The effect of Zn/Mg ratio on the as-cast microstructure and its evolution during homogenization of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys was investigated by optical microscopy (OM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Experimental results showed that serious dendritic segregation existed in the as-cast microstructures while the second phases were mainly AlZnMgCu phase and Al2Cu phase. With the Zn/Mg ratio increasing from 1.5 to 2.0, the area fraction of AlZnMgCu phase decreased from 2.85% to 2.53%, which was attributed to the content of Mg element. Non-equilibrium eutectic phases dissolved into the matrix during homogenization and phase transformation from AlZnMgCu phase to Al2CuMg phase (S phase) was observed in low-Zn/Mg ratio alloy and mid-Zn/Mg ratio alloy. In the high Zn/Mg ratio alloy, the eutectic AlZnMgCu phase directly dissolved into the matrix during the homogenization, and no transformation from AlZnMgCu phase to S phase was found. A higher number of S phases appeared in low-Zn/Mg ratio alloy during homogenization treatment compared with mid-Zn/Mg ratio alloy with a regime of 465°C/24h. It could be inferred that low-Zn/Mg ratio alloys had a stronger phase transformation tendency from AlZnMgCu phase to S phase. Increasing the homogenization treatment temperature could impair the transition tendency from AlZnMgCu phase to S phase.
Treatment of Chromium from Tannery Wastewater Using Nano-Bio Polymer Complex
Authors: Mahmoud Mohamed S. , Mahmoud Ahmed S.
Published: May 2022

Treatment of rich chromium effluent is a matter of concern in many leather industries. Nano zero valent iron (NZI) is considered as one of the promising adsorbent materials due to its large surface area. Also, biomaterials have great remediation efficiency because of their surface-active groups such as hydroxyl and carboxyl groups. In this paper, we study the use of nano-bio polymer complex (NBPC) in chromium removal. Batch experiments were carried out in terms of operating medium pH, contact times, initial chromium concentrations, and speed rates. The maximum chromium removal of 88% was observed at pH values 7.0, contact time 30 min, and speed rate 150 rpm for chromium concentration 100 mg/L. The adsorption linear isotherms fitted well to Freundlich’s model compared to Langmuir’s model. Treatment of tannery wastewater through NBPC beads showed a decrease in heavy metal concentrations at equilibrium with removal orders of Mn > Cu > Ni > Cr > Pb > Fe > Cd. The removal efficiency of chromium ions is 52% with specific uptake of 25.6 mg(Cr)/g(NBPC). Results showed a decrease in the organic loads represented in COD, BOD, ammonia nitrogen, nitrate, and phosphorous with removal efficiencies 51.8, 48.6, 66.1, 63, and 43.3%, respectively. The reusability of NBPC beads was studied for three subsequent cycles. Results revealed that the availability of NBPC beads for reuse but with removal efficiencies is less than that of the first cycle. X-ray diffraction, SEM micrograph with EDAX analysis, and FT-IR spectroscopy for NBPC beads were studied for surface characterizations.
Reduction of Biological Contaminants from Municipal Wastewater by Encapsulated nZVI in Alginate (Ag) Polymer: Reduction Mechanism with Artificial Intelligence Approach
Authors: Elshfai Maha M. , Hassan Rehab G. , Mahmoud Ahmed S.
Published: May 2022

Nanotechnology especially Zero Valent metals is a modern technology for the degradation of extensive ranges of biological wastewater contaminants. Due to their effectiveness, economically and safely properties, this study successfully prepared and characterized nanoZero Valent Iron (nZVI) to be encapsulated into natural alginate biopolymer. The effect of operating parameters was studied at different environmental conditions; pH, dose (g/L), contact time (min), stirring rate (rpm), and BOD concentrations. Adsorption isotherm, kinetic studies, and statistical analysis (Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Artificial neural networks (ANNs)) were examined to describe the removal behavior. The obtained results indicated that the maximum removal efficiency was 81.2 % for initial BOD concentration 300 mg/L, at pH 7, using wet dose 3g/L, 25min, and stirring rate 200 rpm. Also, adsorption and kinetic data indicated that the adsorption mechanism runs toward the Sips model to approximate the Freundlich model at low concentration and to solve the Freundlich limitation at high concentration with a maximum adsorption capacity of 181mg/g. Kinetic results describe the solid transformation from one phase to another at a constant temperature by approving Avrami model. Finally, RSM results agree with ANNs results that the “Concentration effect” is the most significant variable that controls the removal efficiency.
Advanced Wastewater Treatment by Using Entrapped nZVI into Alginate (Ag) Biopolymer: Adsorption Isotherm, Kinetic Models, and Statistical Analysis
Authors: Mahmoud Ahmed S. , Mahmoud Mohamed S. , Mohamed Noran Yousri , Mostafa Mohamed K.
Published: May 2022

Wastewater treatment by nanotechnology, specifically magnetic nanosorbent as nanoZero Valent Iron (nZVI), is a new technology for degradation of wide ranges of organic pollutants by the effect of free electrons as Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) and adsorption processes. Due to their effectiveness, economic, and safety properties, this study prepared and characterized nZVI to be entrapped into natural alginate biopolymer (Ag/nZVI). The removal of wastewater chemical pollutants was tested by studying the variations of COD levels. The effect of operating conditions was studied at different pH, Ag/nZVI doses (g/L), contact time (min), stirring rate (rpm), and initial COD concentrations. Also, Adsorption isotherm, kinetic studies were conducted to estimate equilibrated reaction mechanisms. Linear regression analysis was tested to find the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) relations between variables and removal percentages. Nonlinear Feed-Forward backpropagation system was built for Artificial intelligence neural networks (ANNs) importance detections. Finally, this study approved effective COD removal percentages reached 76%. The maximum removal efficiency for initial COD concentration 400 mg/L was observed at pH 6, using wet dose 3g/L, 30min, and 150 rpm.
Do we need antibiotic prophylaxis in non-reconstructive breast surgery?
Authors: Kumar Akula Sathish , Dahiya Divya , Sharma Akhilesh , Naik Anil , Abuji Kishore , Tandup Cherring , Behera Arunanshu
Published: May 2022

IntroductionBreast surgery is a clean surgery with variation in the reported incidence of surgical site infection (SSI) (2% to 38%) which in higher than expected in a clean surgery. Due to a higher reported incidence of SSI, there are variable protocols regarding the usage of antibiotics. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare the incidence of infection after breast surgery with or without use of perioperative antibiotics.MethodsThis prospective study included 68 patients who underwent non reconstructive elective breast surgery and were randomized equally into two groups who received or who did not receive perioperative antibiotics. Demographic profile and factors which increase the incidence of SSI were recorded. All patients were followed until the wound healing was complete. SSI was diagnosed based on CDC criteria and wounds were graded according to Southampton wound score.ResultsMean age, etiology of breast lesions, presence of risk factors and duration of drain kept was comparable among groups. No patient developed SSI in either group according to CDC criteria and developed only minor complications according to Southampton wound score (p > 0.05). In addition there was no significant interaction on two way mixed models ANOVA between use of antibiotics and on wound healing (p 0.101).ConclusionsThis study highlights that wound healing is not dependant on the use of perioperative antibiotics. Therefore, rational and effective use of antimicrobial agents for the prevention of SSI in clean breast surgeries will decrease the development of antibiotics related complications, antibiotic resistance and the cost of treatment.
How “simple” is laparoscopic transperitoneal simple nephrectomy for a novice surgeon
Authors: Makkar Arun , Kumar Sandeep , Vasudeva Vibha , Kumar Niraj
Published: May 2022

IntroductionTo assess the perioperative outcome of laparoscopic transperitoneal simple nephrectomy and to see how difficult it is for a novice laparoscopic surgeon.Materials and methodsThe laparoscopic transperitoneal simple nephrectomy database between July 2012 and February 2019 was analyzed. The data of the first 50 cases performed by each of the three surgeons (group 1, 2, and 3) were divided into two subgroups- A: cases 1-25, and B: cases 26-50. Data analyzed included operative time, blood loss, conversion to open, the number of cases taken to reach a steady perioperative outcome and complications.ResultsBaseline characteristics of patients including the aetiology of the non-functioning/poorly functioning kidney were similar between the three groups. Though the mean operative time differs between the three surgeons, it decreased significantly till 20-25 cases and then remained steady thereafter among all three surgeons. The presence of hilar or perinephric inflammation secondary to pyonephrosis or stone disease was the factor associated with longer operative time and the need for conversion to open. The grade 3 or higher post-operative complications were similar between the three groups. ConclusionOperative time was the significant perioperative factor that became steady after approximately 20 cases of laparoscopic transperitoneal simple nephrectomy but not the other factors like blood transfusion rate or grade III complications.
An underrated differential diagnosis for subcutaneous lumps: 26 cases of subcutaneous Dirofilariasis
Authors: De Silva G. P. U. P. , Udugampola D. S. , Ekanayake E. M. I. B. , Fonseka K. V. S. , Karunadasa M. S. E.
Published: May 2022

IntroductionEven though subcutaneous dirofilariasis [worm granuloma] is an emerging zoonosis, it is not commonplace to consider it as a differential diagnosis for a subcutaneous lump even in the endemic zones. Moreover, the available literature lacks attempts to provide a unified clinical profile for it to be considered as a clinical entity.Methods We have retrospectively analyzed patients who were diagnosed with subcutaneous dirofilariasis at a Base Hospital in the Uva Province of Sri Lanka from February 2018 to March 2020. We evaluated patient demographics, symptomatology, clinical signs, ultrasonographic and histopathological features.Results Twenty-six patients with a mean age of 15.6 years [range 1 – 67 years] were analyzed. The locations of the lumps were highly variable, the commonest being the abdominal wall [34.6%]. Most [84.6%] were asymptomatic. The average diameter was 14.2mm [range 8 – 25mm]. The majority were neither tender nor warm, firm, and had ill-defined margins and a smooth surface without fluctuation, transillumination, or slipping sign. All were in the subcutaneous plane often attached to the deep fascia but without attachment to the skin. Blood investigations were unremarkable with a normal ESR and eosinophil count. The ultrasonographic finding was an echogenic tubular structure within a hypoechoic lesion. Histopathology demonstrated a worm surrounded by granulomatous inflammatory infiltrates with eosinophils and lymphocytes. Conclusion We emphasize the importance of regarding subcutaneous dirofilariasis as a differential diagnosis for subcutaneous lumps, especially in the highly prevalent geographical zones to minimize 'incidental diagnosis'.
A Pilot Randomized Trial of As-Needed Budesonide-Formoterol for Stepping Down Controller Treatment in Moderate Asthma with Complete Remission
Authors: Nakwan Narongwit , Ruklerd Thidarat , Taptawee Pattarawadee
Published: May 2022

Background: The use of low-dose inhaled corticosteroid-formoterol as reliever monotherapy has recently been recommended in the asthma treatment guidelines. However, the efficacy of this treatment strategy has not yet been determined during the stepping-down period in moderate asthma. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of reducing treatment to as-needed budesonide-formoterol (BFM) in moderate asthma with complete remission.Methods: We randomly assigned 31 patients (8 males and 23 females with a mean age of 57.2 years) with complete remission of asthma by inhaled BFM (160/4.5 μg) twice daily to receive BFM (160/4.5 μg) as needed (16 patients), or budesonide (BUD) (200 μg) twice daily (15 patients). The study was an open-label study done for 48 weeks, with the primary outcome as the cumulative percentages of patients with treatment failure (asthma exacerbation or loss of asthma control or lack of satisfaction after using medications) in the two groups.Results: Six patients (42%) using as-needed BFM had treatment failure, as compared with three patients (21.4%) using BUD maintenance (hazards ratio for as-needed BFM, 1.77; 95% confidential interval, 0.44–7.12; p=0.41). The changes in forced expiratory volume in 1 second were −211.3 mL with as-needed BFM versus −97.8 mL with BUD maintenance (difference, 113.5 mL; p=0.75) and the change in fractional exhaled nitric oxide was significantly higher in both groups, at 8.68 parts per billion (ppb) in the as-needed BFM group and 2.5 ppb. in the BUD maintenance group (difference, 6.18 ppb; p=0.049).Conclusion: Compared with BUD maintenance, there were no significant differences in treatment failure rate in patients who received as-needed BFM during the stepping down period in moderate asthma. However, they showed reduced lung function and relapsed airway inflammation. The results are limited by imprecision, and further large RCTs are needed.
Evaluation of Blood Pressure in Pediatric Survivors of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and Healthy Children; A Case-control Study
Authors: Ghaffari Kazem , Aghajari Mohammad Amin , Ghasemi Ali , Ghandi Yazdan , Falahati Vahid
Published: May 2022

Background:

The exact prevalence of hypertension in children surviving acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has not been fully estimated. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of arterial hypertension (AH) and to determine the risk factors for the development of AH in children surviving ALL with current treatments.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 150 patients (84 males, 66 females, with an age range of 1–16 years) were included in the study. Demographic and clinical information of patients were initially recorded. Hypertension is defined as average systolic blood pressure (BP) and/or diastolic BP that is greater than the 95th percentile for gender, age, and height.

Results:

The mean age at the assessment of BP was 11.3 and 9.8 years in the ALL and control group, respectively. A total of 20.6% of survivors of ALL and 10% of controls had high BP. Most patients in both groups had normal BP (65.3% patients in ALL group and 75.4% subjects in the control group). The number of patients with hypertension was significantly higher in ALL patients as compared with the control group (P = 0.026).

Conclusion:

The prevalence of AH in children surviving ALL is higher than in children in the general population, which emphasizes the need for regular monitoring of BP in children surviving ALL and intervention in the lifestyle of this population. Careful follow-up of BP status is warranted for long-term survivors of childhood cancer.
A Comparative Study of the Effect of Two Procedures of Classic Roux-en-Y and Omega Bariatric Surgery on the Control and Management of Diabetes
Authors: Sayadi Shahraki Masoud , Mahmoudieh Mohsen , Keleidari Behrooz , Melali Hamid , Algazali Abdulhakim
Published: May 2022

Background:

Patient management after bariatric surgery is important in controlling patients’ diabetes and recurrence prevention. This study aimed to meet the medical managements of patients with diabetes 6 months after the bariatric surgery.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was performed on 77 type 2 diabetes patients’ candidates for bariatric surgery (Roux-en-Y [RYGP] and Omega). Postoperative implementation protocol was one-third of insulin for patients taking long-term insulin and the discontinuation of medications for patients of oral antidiabetic agents. Blood glucose (BG) level was checked regularly by the patients at home and the necessary medical management was applied. The weight, BG and HbA1C levels, and use of oral antidiabetic agents and insulin were assessed and recorded before 1, 3, and 6 months after the surgery.

Results:

BG levels and HbA1C percentage in the 1st, 3rd, and 6th months after the intervention in Omega group were significantly lower than RYGB group (P value < 0.05). At 1 and 3 months after surgery, the mean insulin dose received by the Omega and RYGB groups was reduced to <30 units/day and 10 units/day, respectively, following the management protocol in this study. Moreover, 23.1% and 7.7% of patients in RYGB group and 12.1% and 3% of patients in Omega group took oral antidiabetic agents 1and 3 months after surgery, respectively. Insulin and oral antidiabetic agents were completely discontinued 6 months after the surgery.

Conclusion:

The long-term management and support of the patients by the implementation of a standard protocol after surgery are of great significance in obtaining the optimal outcome after bariatric surgery.
Illness Anxiety Disorder and Its Relationship with Social Health in the Elderly, Isfahan, Iran
Authors: Tavakoli Neda , Kaviani Saeed , Amini Zahra
Published: May 2022

Background:

The present study investigated the prevalence of illness anxiety disorder and its relationship with social health in the elderly population.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 400 elderly people in Isfahan referred to the educational health service in 2020. In addition to demographic characteristics, they answered the 36-item Evans hypochondriasis questionnaire and the 28-item social health questionnaire.

Results:

Four hundred elderly participants with a mean age of 68.1 ± 6.6 (range: 60–89) were included in the study. One hundred and ninety-nine (49.8%) were female and 201 (50.3%) were male. Only 24.3% of the geriatrics were in the healthy group and 21.2% in the borderline category. Seventy-two of the geriatric population (18%) had poor social health and 299 of this population (74.8%) had moderate social health, and the social health status of 29 elderlies (7.3%) was favorable. There was an inverse relationship between hypochondriasis score and total social health score and its dimensions (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

High prevalence of hypochondriasis was observed in the geriatrics compared to global studies. Most of the elderly population had moderate social health. Gender and education do not affect hypochondriasis and social health in the elderly. People with higher social health scores were clearly less likely to get hypochondriasis. Therefore, by improving the various dimensions of social health of the geriatrics, we can help reduce the prevalence of hypochondriasis in this age group.
A Comparative Study on the Efficacy of Coenzyme Q10 and Amitriptyline in the Prophylactic Treatment of Migraine Headaches in Children
Authors: Yaghini Omid , Hoseini Neda , Ghazavi Mohammad Reza , Mansouri Vahid , Nasiri Jafar , Moosavian Toktam , Salehi Mohammad Mehdi
Published: May 2022

Background:

Migraine, one of the most common headaches in children, has a significant impact on children and their family's quality of life (QoL). There are two approaches for controlling migraine headaches preventative and controlling acute attacks. Several drugs have been used for this purpose, and tricyclic antidepressants were at the top. Amitriptyline has shown not only a desirable effect on controlling the headaches but also some adverse side effects. Recently, finding effective drugs with fewer side effects, become more critical. Among them, nutraceuticals were one of the promising ones.

Materials and Methods:

In this randomized clinical trial on 72 patients aged 5–15 years old with diagnosis of migraine based on the International Headache Society criteria, we compare the effectiveness of coenzyme Qten on frequency, duration, and severity of childhood migraine. For comparing the QoL, we used the International PedMIDAS questionnaire.

Results:

Coenzyme Qten showed good therapeutic effects in children, especially in long-term use; however, amitriptyline showed more rapid response. After 3 months of treatment, clinical outcomes in the two groups did not significantly differ from each other. Similarly, Children's QoL increased in the same way. There are more reported side effects in children using amitriptyline compared to coenzyme Qten.

Conclusions:

According to results, Co-enzyme Q10, with fewer side effects and comparable therapeutic effects, especially in the long term, could be a good drug for prophylactic treatment of migraine headaches.
Practice and Associated Factors Regarding Foot Care among Diabetes Mellitus Patients Attending a Rural Primary Health Center in South India
Authors: Dhandapani Srihari , Kambar Sanjay , Hiremath Murigendra Basayya
Published: May 2022

Background:

Diabetes mellitus patients are more likely to undergo nontraumatic foot or leg amputations because they have decreased circulation to the feet or reduced sensation. This condition may cause ulcerations, infections, and delayed wound healing, leading to amputations. Adequate knowledge and practices regarding foot care will be vital in the prevention of diabetic foot complications. Hence, this study aimed to determine the level of knowledge and practices of foot care among diabetes mellitus patients attending a rural primary health center in Belagavi-South India.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in the rural field practice area of J.N. Medical College, Belagavi, for 7 months (November 2019 to May 2020). A pretested questionnaire was administered to 461 diabetes patients attending the health center. A written informed consent was obtained from each participant. They were interviewed with a questionnaire consisting of 15 “yes” or “no” questions, each on foot care knowledge and practice.

Results:

The mean age of the study participants was 50.28 ± 9.48 years. The mean duration of diabetes was 10.69 ± 7.09 years. Majority, i.e., 296 (64.2%) participants showed satisfactory knowledge and 293 (63.6%) showed satisfactory practice. Only 97 (21%) had poor knowledge, 90 (19.5%) had poor practice, 68 (14.8%) patients had good knowledge, and 78 (16.9%) had good practice about diabetic foot care.

Conclusions:

The low level of knowledge and practice in patients with diabetes regarding foot care necessitates an educational program to increase awareness related to foot complications of diabetes, thereby motivating diabetic patients to incorporate foot care practices in their day-to-day routine.
Melting Curve-based Assay as an Alternative Technique for the Accurate Detection of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Aboutalebian Shima , Mirzaaghaei Somaye , Fakhim Hamed , Faramarzi Sama , Mousavi Somayeh , Ghafel Safiyeh , Gholipour Sahar , Farhang Armin , Mirhendi Hossein , Nikaeen Mahnaz
Published: May 2022

Background:

Early and cost-effective diagnosis and monitoring of the infection caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are critically important to anticipate and control the disease. We aimed to set up a SYBR Green-based one-step real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as a lower-cost alternative method to detect the virus.

Materials and Methods:

An in-house SYBR Green-based PCR assay targeting the envelope (E) and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) genes, was set up to diagnose the infection, and was compared with the reference probe-based PCR method.

Results:

When the commercial probe-based assay was considered as the reference method, SYBR Green-based PCR had a slightly lower sensitivity (81.98% and 86.25% for E and RdRp targets, respectively) and a good specificity (100% and 94.44% for E and RdRp targets, respectively). For both gene targets, three different melting temperature (Tm) patterns were found in the PCRs of the nasopharyngeal/oropharyngeal swab samples, but no size polymorphism was seen in agarose gel electrophoresis.

Conclusion:

Further studies to improvement of the assay are needed to make it an inexpensive and reliable tool for the diagnosis of COVID-19.