bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling the Electric and Dielectric Behaviors of the Gebel Kamil Iron Meteorite
Authors: Nabawy Bassem S.
Published: January 2022

The Gebel Kamil iron meteorite is a famous big meteorite, and it is considered among the rare well-preserved iron meteorites. In this study, its electric and dielectric properties, namely electric conductivity (σ), dielectric constant (ε′), and dielectric loss (ε″), were measured using alternating current at a wide range of frequencies (50 Hz–11.0 MHz). This electrical characterization process was performed to get a diagnostic electric behavior of the electric and dielectric parameters as a function of the applied frequency (f). It is revealed that, by increasing f, the σ increased, while the dielectric properties decreased systematically through three stages of frequency. The well-known octahedral structure of iron meteorites was imaged using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with support by energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX) to analyze the chemical composition of the meteorite specimen. The EDAX indicated that the Gebel Kamil meteorite is a Ni–Fe alloy with no impurities (Ni = 20.4–22.3%, Fe = 77.7–79.6%). This chemical composition and the electric and dielectric behaviors of the studied Ni-rich Gebel Kamil meteorite specimen can be recorded as diagnostic features and properties of this Fe–Ni meteorite.
Transdermal Delivery of a Hydrogen Sulphide Donor, ADT-OH Using Aqueous Gel Formulations for the Treatment of Impaired Vascular Function: an Ex Vivo Study
Authors: Marwah Mandeep Kaur , Shokr Hala , Sanchez-Aranguren Lissette , Badhan Raj Kumar Singh , Wang Keqing , Ahmad Shakil
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) is an important signalling molecule involved in the regulation of several physiological and pathophysiological processes. The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of transdermal delivery of ADT-OH, a H2S donor, by investigating the transdermal flux of aqueous gels loaded with penetration enhancers or liposomes. Furthermore, we explored the ability of permeated ADT-OH to promote angiogenesis and mitochondrial bioenergetics in HUVEC cells.

Methods

Aqueous hypromellose gels (5% w/v) were prepared with up to 10% v/v propylene glycol (PG) or deformable liposomes with 0.025% w/w ADT-OH. ADT-OH permeation from formulations across excised murine skin into PBS was quantified over 24 h using HPLC-UV detection. Media was collected and applied to HUVEC cells to evidence ADT-OH functionality following permeation. Tube formation assays were performed as indicative of angiogenesis and mitochondrial oxygen consumption was evaluated using a Seahorse XF24.

Results

Increasing the loading of PG caused an increase in ADT-OH permeation rate across skin and a decrease in dermal drug retention whereas liposomal gels produced a slow-release profile. Treatment of HUVEC’s using conditioned media collected from the ADT-OH loaded permeation studies enhanced tube formation and the basal oxygen consumption rates after 30 min of treatment.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that transdermal delivery of ADT-OH may provide a promising approach in the treatment of impaired vascular function. Gels prepared with 10% v/v PG have the potential for use in conditions requiring rapid H2S release whereas liposomal loaded gels for treatment requiring sustained H2S release.
High Throughput Screening of a Prescription Drug Library for Inhibitors of Organic Cation Transporter 3, OCT3
Authors: Chen Eugene C. , Matsson Pär , Azimi Mina , Zhou Xujia , Handin Niklas , Yee Sook Wah , Artursson Per , Giacomini Kathleen M.
Published: January 2022

Introduction

The organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3, SLC22A3) is ubiquitously expressed and interacts with a wide array of compounds including endogenous molecules, environmental toxins and prescription drugs. Understudied as a determinant of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, OCT3 has the potential to be a major determinant of drug absorption and disposition and to be a target for drug-drug interactions (DDIs).

Goal

The goal of the current study was to identify prescription drug inhibitors of OCT3.

Methods

We screened a compound library consisting of 2556 prescription drugs, bioactive molecules, and natural products using a high throughput assay in HEK-293 cells stably expressing OCT3.

Results

We identified 210 compounds that at 20 μM inhibit 50% or more of OCT3-mediated uptake of 4-Di-1-ASP (2 μM). Of these, nine were predicted to inhibit the transporter at clinically relevant unbound plasma concentrations. A Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) model included molecular descriptors that could discriminate between inhibitors and non-inhibitors of OCT3 and was used to identify additional OCT3 inhibitors. Proteomics of human brain microvessels (BMVs) indicated that OCT3 is the highest expressed OCT in the human blood-brain barrier (BBB).

Conclusions

This study represents the largest screen to identify prescription drug inhibitors of OCT3. Several are sufficiently potent to inhibit the transporter at therapeutic unbound plasma levels, potentially leading to DDIs or off-target pharmacologic effects.
Can repeated surveys reveal the variation of the value of travel time over time?
Authors: Börjesson Maria , Kouwenhoven Marco , de Jong Gerard , Daly Andrew
Published: January 2022

This paper studies intertemporal changes in the value of travel time (VTT) and investigates whether the change of VTT over time can be studied based on national VTT data, collected at two points in time. We use repeated national VTT data from the Netherlands and Sweden, collected 13 and 14 years apart. The results show mostly a declining VTT for a given income level. The results show also a large within-country heterogeneity across modes and purposes, in the cross-sectional income elasticity of the VTT, and in its development over time. The explanation most consistent with our results and those of others is that the VTT has in fact increased due to income increases, but that the repeated stated choice data cannot detect this given the data, methodology and population changes. In particular, it seems that the response rate has dropped considerably in the later surveys partly due to a higher share of (busy) respondents declining to be recruited. The main contribution of this paper is to document the differences between the studies carried out in different years, indicating the reasons why it is difficult to identify temporal changes in the VTT.
User expectations and perceptions towards new public transport infrastructure: evaluating a cable car in Bogotá
Authors: Guzman Luis A. , Cantillo-Garcia Victor A. , Arellana Julian , Sarmiento Olga L.
Published: January 2022

Cable cars are a viable alternative to improve citizens’ accessibility in zones with limitations on urban public transport supply due to the topography. In Latin America, such systems have recently been implemented in zones with high levels of poverty and vulnerability. Although the social implications of their implementation are relevant, individual expectations of these systems and how current changes in travel conditions and quality of life are perceived have not been widely reported in the literature. This paper aims to evaluate users’ expectations and perceptions of a new cable car in the southern periphery of Bogotá (Colombia). We conducted a panel survey before (n = 341) and after (n = 301) the cable car started operations to evaluate the ranking of preferences toward a set of possible benefits of the project. We estimated discrete choice models to analyze the statistical differences between the expectations and perceptions before and after changes. Results suggest that travel time reductions, comfort improvements, and in-vehicle security are the benefits most valued by the users. Even though the project meets expectations of these aspects, it seems to fall short in expectations of reductions of pollution. Individuals’ experience with the cable car shapes their perceptions of the system. We found that perceptions differ between those who have used the service at least once and those who never did. Policy implications derived from this study might be of interest to decision-makers seeking to guarantee the public acceptability of urban projects.
Fiscal performance and the re-election of finance ministers–evidence from the Swiss cantons
Authors: Buchs Aurélia , Soguel Nils
Published: January 2022

Using data from 225 cantonal government elections over the 1980–2019 period in Switzerland, we estimate the effect of fiscal performance on the vote share of finance ministers seeking re-election. Our estimations show that finance ministers benefit statistically and electorally from balancing fiscal accounts and presenting budget surpluses. Improving the fiscal balance by 1000 Swiss francs per inhabitant in the pre-election year raises the electoral result of a finance minister by 1.4–5.4 percentage points from the vote share of her previous election. We present evidence for politician-specific monitoring: the finance minister—in contrast to the spending ministers—seems to be the sole member of government who benefits, electorally, from debt reduction. Correcting for possible selection phenomena, our results suggest that the electoral effect of fiscal performance may not be caused by a selection bias but rather by the office of the finance ministry itself.
Emerging roles of Galectin-3 in diabetes and diabetes complications: A snapshot
Authors: Li Yanhua , Li Tian , Zhou Zhiguang , Xiao Yang
Published: January 2022

Galectin-3 is a member of the galectin family, widely expressed in immune cells and plays a role mainly in inflammation, autoimmunity, apoptosis, and chemotaxis. We summarized the roles of Galectin-3 in diabetes and its complications, as well as the underlying mechanisms. Clinical research has determined that the circulating level of Galectin-3 is closely related to diabetes and its complications, thus it is promising to use Galectin-3 as a predictor and biomarker for those diseases. Galectin-3 also may be considered as an ideal therapeutic target, which has broad prospects in the prevention and treatment of diabetes and its complications, especially macrovascular and microvascular complications.
Academic social networks metrics: an effective indicator for university performance?
Authors: Wiechetek Łukasz , Pastuszak Zbigniew
Published: January 2022

Social networks have become popular among researchers and scientists. Specialized platforms for researchers offer many metrics and indicators which are used to evaluate various scientists and assess the strength of their impact. In this article the authors perform systematic comparison between the main university level ResearchGate (RG) metrics: total RG Score, number of publications, number of affiliated profiles and ARWU. A tool for acquiring the RG metrics of research units and a framework for calculating alternative university ranks was implemented and tested. As a point of reference the ranking system of the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU, 2019) was used. The authors used a web scraping technique to acquire data. Data analysis was based on Spearman's rho and multiple linear regression (MLR). Ten additional ranks were developed and compared with the benchmark ranking. The k-means clustering method was used to identify the groups of ARWU universities. The research results show that the metrics provided by specialized social networks can be used for the assessment of universities, however, an in-depth evaluation requires a more advanced procedure and indicators to measure many areas of scholarly activity like research, integration, application, teaching, and co-creation. Clustering method showed also that the distance between the ARWU universities measured in values of RG metrics are bigger for the top of the ranking. The university authorities should encourage researchers to use specialized social networks, and train them how to do it, to promote not only their own achievements, but also to increase the impact and recognition of their respective research units. At the end of the article some limitations of the method used and some practical recommendations for the university authorities were formulated.
Solar Temperature Variations Computed from SORCE SIM Irradiances Observed During 2003 – 2020
Authors: Cahalan Robert F. , Ajiquichí Paulino , Yatáz Gaspar
Published: January 2022

NASA’s Solar Radiation and Climate Experiment (SORCE) Spectral Irradiance Monitor (SIM) instrument produced about 17 years of daily average Spectral Solar Irradiance (SSI) data for wavelengths 240 – 2416 nm. We choose a day of minimal solar activity, August 24, 2008 (2008-08-24), during the 2008 – 2009 minimum between Cycles 23 and 24, and compute the brightness temperature ($T_{o}$

T
o

) from that day’s solar spectral irradiance ($\mathit{SSI}_{o}$

SSI
o

). We consider small variations of $T$
T
and SSI about these reference values, and derive linear and quadratic analytic approximations by Taylor expansion about the reference-day values. To determine the approximation accuracy, we compare to the exact brightness temperatures $T$
T
computed from the Planck spectrum, by solving analytically for $T$
T
, or equivalent root finding in Wolfram Mathematica. We find that the linear analytic approximation overestimates, while the quadratic underestimates, the exact result. This motivates the search for statistical “fit” models “in between” the two analytic models, with minimum root-mean-square-error, RMSE. We make this search using open-source statistical $R$
R
software, determine coefficients for linear and quadratic fit models, and compare statistical with analytic RMSEs. When only linear analytic and fit models are compared, the fit model is superior at ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared wavelengths. This again holds true when comparing only quadratic models. Quadratic is superior to linear for both analytic and statistical models, and statistical fits give the smallest RMSEs. Lastly, we use linear analytic and fit models to find an interpolating function in wavelength, useful when the SIM results need adjustment to another choice of wavelengths, to compare or extend to any other instrument. Advantages of the quadratic $T$
T
over the exact $T$
T
include ease of interpretation, and computational speed.
Instructional design learners make sense of theory: a collaborative autoethnography
Authors: Fiock Holly , Meech Sally , Yang Mohan , Long Yishi , Farmer Tadd , Hilliard Nathan , Koehler Adrie A. , Cheng Zui
Published: January 2022

Understanding theory is essential to instructional design (ID) research and practice; however, novice designers struggle to make sense of instructional design theory due to its abstract and complex nature, the inconsistent use of theoretical terms and concepts within literature, and the dissociation of theory from practice. While these challenges are generally understood, little is known about the sensemaking process of learners as they encounter these challenges in pursuit of deeper theoretical understanding. Using a collaborative autoethnographic approach, six ID learners investigated their sensemaking experience within an advanced ID theory course. Autoethnography, a form of qualitative research, focuses on self-reflection “to gain an understanding of society through the unique sense of self” (Chang et al., 2013, p. 18). Collaborative autoethnography, a type of autoethnography, explores anecdotal and personal experiences “collectively and cooperatively within a team of researchers” (p. 21). Using individual and collective reflexive and analytic activities, this inquiry illuminates the numerous sensemaking approaches ID learners commonly used to move beyond their initial, basic theoretical understanding, including deconstructing theory, distinguishing terminology, integrating concepts with previous knowledge, and maintaining an openness to multiple perspectives. Additionally, ID learners experienced significant struggles in this process but viewed these struggles as significant and motivating elements of their sensemaking process. Finally, this study offers implications for learners, instructors, and course designers.
The relationship betweens math anxiety and arithmetic reasoning: The mediating role of working memory and self-competence
Authors: Živković Marija , Pellizzoni Sandra , Mammarella Irene C. , Passolunghi Maria Chiara
Published: January 2022

The complex interplay between cognitive and emotional factors at the base of maths achievement started to be evaluated and quantified in the last few years. Only a few studies, anyway, examine at the same time, the role of working memory (visuospatial and verbal subsystem) and maths anxiety together with self-competence, on maths attainment. To investigate the specific link between these three factors, in a large developmental sample, we enrol 335 students from the 3rd, 5th, and 7th grades. In respect to emotional and motivational factors, data indicates a direct influence of maths anxiety on maths performance. Furthermore, the results highlight that maths anxiety differently impacts working memory subsystems. In fact, we observe a significant and indirect effect of MA, through the visuospatial system, on maths achievement. Our results provide further support to the hypothesis that maths anxiety is a special type of anxiety, most likely impacting the visuospatial rather than the verbal working memory subsystem. Data is discussed in terms of a possible mechanism underlying maths anxiety and visuospatial working memory at the base of this specificity, and in relation to the role of self-competence in this interplay.
The Two Arrows of Pain: Mechanisms of Pain Related to Meditation and Mental States of Aversion and Identification
Authors: Nicolardi Valentina , Simione Luca , Scaringi Domenico , Malinowski Peter , Yordanova Juliana , Kolev Vasil , Mauro Federica , Giommi Fabio , Barendregt Henk P. , Aglioti Salvatore M. , Raffone Antonino
Published: January 2022

Objectives

According to the core Buddhist psychology models of the “two arrows of pain” and “co-dependent origination,” pain is the resultant of bodily and mental factors, which can be regulated by meditation states and traits. Here we investigated how pain and the related aversion and identification (self-involvement) experiences are modulated by focused attention meditation (FAM), open monitoring meditation (OMM), and loving kindness meditation (LKM), as well as by meditation expertise.

Methods

Theravada Buddhist long-term meditators were matched with a group of short-term meditators. Nociceptive electrical stimulation was administered during FAM, OMM, and LKM, and in a non-meditative rest condition. Experience reports of pain, aversion, and identification were collected in each trial.

Results

Pain thresholds were higher in long-term meditators than in short-term meditators. In the short-term meditators, as compared to rest, pain was reduced in FAM and OMM, and aversion and identification in all meditation conditions. In the long-term meditators, pain was reduced only in LKM. Identification was reduced in the three forms of meditation, while aversion was not affected by meditation. Further analyses with a particular focus on long-term meditators showed that pain was predicted to increase with meditation expertise, aversion, and identification. Granger causality analysis revealed that aversion and pain, as well as aversion and identification, causally influenced each other; identification causally influenced pain. This pattern of results about the relationships between pain, aversion, and identification was largely overlapping in the group of short-term meditators.

Conclusions

The findings reveal mechanisms of pain in interaction with aversive and identification mental states, as well as their modulation by meditation states and traits. They also suggest that pain feeling is the resultant of coupling of sensory and mental factors, thus highlighting the relevance of the second arrow of pain and providing a clarification of the epistemological gap between sensory causation and mental state causation of pain, in terms of a co-production mechanism with multiple stages. In particular, the evidence about the causal influences of identification on pain highlights a self-related factor of relevance in pain experiences that can be modulated by mindfulness. The study also inspires new testable neuroscientific hypotheses, and sheds new light on core Buddhist psychology models, based on evidence from a controlled experimental setting and experience dimension reports by long-term meditators with enhanced mindfulness skills.
Mind–Body Practice Is Related to Pro-environmental Engagement Through Self-compassion and Global Identity Rather Than to Self-enhancement
Authors: Loy Laura S. , Clemens Alicia , Reese Gerhard
Published: January 2022

Objectives

A recent publication stated that mind–body practices (MBPs) of meditation and yoga boost self-enhancement instead of quieting the ego, contrary to these practices’ traditional goals. Surveying practitioners directly after MBP classes or at other time points, the researchers found higher levels of self-esteem and communal narcissism after MBP and interpreted these as indicators of a boosted ego. However, their conceptualization was criticized, and empirical studies on other constructs representing a quiet ego, namely self-compassion and global identity, found that these characteristics were stronger in mind–body practitioners than in non-practitioners and fostered by MBP interventions. This study aimed to bring these research strands together.

Methods

Using a preregistered known-groups approach, 211 mind–body practitioners (yoga, meditation, or both) were compared with 190 non-practitioners recruited through a German online panel. The participants answered an online questionnaire assessing self-esteem, communal narcissism, self-compassion, and global identity. Moreover, they reported their pro-environmental behavior and climate policy support.

Results

There were no differences regarding self-esteem, and—as only one aspect of communal narcissism—a higher expectation among practitioners that they could positively influence the world. Moreover, they reported higher levels of self-compassion and global identity. MBP was indirectly related to stronger pro-environmental behavior and climate policy support through higher global identity, and partly through higher self-compassion.

Conclusions

MBPs might have the potential to contribute to a quiet ego rather than to self-enhancement. Moreover, they might motivate people to engage in societal challenges that go beyond mere self-interest and contribute to a sustainable future.

Study Registration

Aspredicted.org: #44032.
End-of-life waste criteria: synthesis and utilization of Mn–Zn ferrite nanoparticles as a superparamagnetic photocatalyst for synergistic wastewater remediation
Authors: Tony Maha A. , Eltabey M. M.
Published: January 2022

Dyes are toxic compounds that are widely included in industrial discharge. Their efficient and economical remediation can be explored through Fenton’s oxidation. Mn0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4 nanoparticles are prepared via a simple and efficient co-precipitation technique and its chemical composition is confirmed through X-ray diffraction and its morphology via high-resolution transmission electron microscope. The prepared superparamagnetic photocatalyst based on Mn0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4 is applied for almost complete Synozol Blue dye removal (98% dye removal and 87% COD removal) and the results confirmed that the process is an efficient sustainable technique for the easily magnetically recoverable catalyst. Central composite design analysis was chosen to optimize the parametric conditions of the magnetized Fenton’s variables through 13-level of a quadratic model. The optimized system variables were attained at 39 and 404 mg L−1 for catalyst and H2O2, respectively, at pH 3.0 with model correlation coefficients over than 98%. Recover and reuse are a viable option for ‘close the loop’ waste after final treatment as an ‘end-of-life’ waste potential and high removal efficiency is attained up to the 8th cycle of catalyst reuse. Kinetics of Synozol Blue oxidation fitted through the first-order kinetic model. Finally, the thermodynamic parameters values concluded that the process is non-spontaneous and endothermic in nature.
Role of aurora kinase B in regulating resistance to paclitaxel in breast cancer cells
Authors: Liu Min , Li Yinan , Zhang Cui , Zhang Qing
Published: January 2022

Aurora kinase B (AURKB) is a type of functional kinase with primary functions of participating in cell mitosis, which has been identified to be involved in the occurrence and development of malignant tumors strongly. However, it still remains a controversial with respect to the relationship between the phosphorylation level of AURKB and its function. In our initial research, there was no significant difference in the relative content of AURKB protein between drug-resistant breast cancer cells and wild-type cells; however, its phosphorylation level in drug-resistant cells was significantly higher than that in wild-type cells. Subsequent cell and animal experiments both confirmed the positive correlation between AURKB phosphorylation and drug resistance. Furthermore, PRKCE in the upstream was identified to regulate the phosphorylation of AURKB, which promoted the change of spatial localization of AURKB from nucleus to cytoplasm. Accordingly, phosphorylated AURKB reduced the negative regulation of downstream RAB27B transcription physically, and interacted with RAB27B in cytoplasm to maintain its protein stability. Eventually, it promoted exosome secretion of drug-resistant cells and drug efflux. Using shRNA to knockdown AURKB expression, using hesperadin to inhibit AURKB activity, mutating the AURKB phosphorylation site, or using siRNA as well as BIM to inhibit the activity of the upstream AURKB phosphorylation regulatory protein PRKCE, all of which directly or indirectly reduce AURKB phosphorylation, are effective in reversing PTX resistance in cells. Collectively, this study provides experimental evidence for PRKCE/AURKB/RAB27B axis in regulating the resistance to paclitaxel (PTX) in breast cancer cells, offering a potential intervention target for reversing drug resistance.
NZ-RugbyHealth Study: Self-reported Injury Experience and Current Health of Former Rugby Union and Non-contact Sport Players
Authors: Hume Patria A. , Quarrie Kenneth L. , Lewis Gwyn N. , Theadom Alice
Published: January 2022

Background

There is limited research on associations between playing rugby union and player health post-retirement.

Objective

This study investigated differences in self-reported sport injury history and current self-reported health characteristics between former New Zealand rugby and non-contact sport players with a view to identifying issues to be further investigated with stronger epidemiological research designs.

Methods

Using a cross-sectional design, the NZ-RugbyHealth study surveyed 470 former rugby and non-contact sport players (43.8 ± 8.1 years; 127 elite rugby, 271 community rugby, 72 non-contact sport) recruited from October 2012 to April 2014. Demographic information, engagement in sport, sport injuries, medical conditions, mood, alcohol and substance use and ratings of current health status were obtained from a self-report 58-item general health e-questionnaire. We highlighted standardised differences in means of > 0.6 and differences in relative percentages of > 1.43 for variables between groups as representing at least moderate effect sizes, and of being worthy of follow-up studies.

Results

Higher percentages of the elite rugby player group had sustained injuries of a given body-site type (e.g. neck sprain/strain, thigh bruising, hamstring strain) combination than the non-contact sports players. Higher percentages of the rugby groups reported having sustained concussion (94% for elite, 82% for community, 26% for non-contact), injuries requiring hospitalisation (73%, 46%, 25%), injuries that stopped participation in sport permanently (28%, 28%, 11%) and sport-related surgery (72%, 46%, 32%) during their playing career. Both rugby groups had a higher prevalence of osteoarthritis (37%, 18%, 6%) than non-contact athletes and community rugby players had higher levels of hazardous alcohol consumption (38%, 40%, 25%) in retirement than non-contact athletes. There was little difference between rugby players and non-contact sports athletes in self-reported mood, substance use and current physical or psychological health ratings.

Conclusions

Former rugby player groups were at higher risk than the non-contact player group for most injuries during their playing careers, and in retirement had greater prevalence of osteoarthritis and hazardous alcohol consumption. The relative youth of the groups (43.8 years on average) means that health issues that typically do not emerge until later life may not have yet manifested.
Pin-bearing mechanical behaviour of continuous reinforced Kevlar fibre composite fabricated via fused filament fabrication
Authors: Giorleo L. , Papa I. , Silvestri A. T.
Published: January 2022

In this study, the pin bearing behaviour of a 3D printed composite material with Kevlar reinforcement was analysed. Three different experimental tests were designed to determine the effects of fibre orientation, layer design, and fibre distribution along the specimen thickness. Furthermore, the pin-bearing strength and stiffness were analysed using statistical methods as analysis of variance. The results indicate a significant increase in bearing strength and stiffness for at least two fibre orientations, i.e. 0°and 90° with respect to the pin displacement. The results also highlight a no significant variation of strength and stiffness for parts produced adopting a mixed or single fibre orientation; finally, the findings do not indicate any significant influence of the fibre layer position inside the specimen, i.e. this parameter does not limit the freedom when designing a fibre-reinforced part.
Unknown ingestion of dentures – Review and description of a case report
Authors: Salvador David , Pratas Nuno , Capote Hugo
Published: January 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Foreign-body ingestion is a common occurrence in the Emergency Department (ED) and numerous types of objects have been implicated. Most of the foreign bodies pass through the GI system without any lesion but there's always a risk of impaction and perforation requiring surgery.

The aim of the article and clinical case described is to provide a brief review of the diagnosis and management of foreign body ingestion. With this case report, the author raises awareness to the fact that the diagnostic is often elusive since even mentally capable patients might not notice or refer about ingestion of foreign bodies, especially dentures.

Case presentation:

52-year-old female patient who presents to the ER with sudden onset of generalized abdominal pain localizing to the right lower quadrant with no history of foreign body ingestion. Clinically with signs of peritonism localised to the RLQ. Diagnosis of impaction by a foreign body ingestion was made with CT scan and clearly identified with 3D reconstruction of the CT scan. Proposed for urgent laparoscopy to remove FB and prevent perforation. However, minimal access surgery was unfeasible and even the laparotomy was difficulted by previous abdominal wall repair. Even so, the FB was retrieved after enterotomy and both the surgery and post op period recovery were uneventful.

Discussion:

The clinical presentation of an impacted/perforated foreign body in the bowel is not always straightforward, often simulating other acute abdominal urgencies such as appendicitis and diverticulitis. The most valuable method to locate the FB's and diagnose complications is the CT scan. The mainstay of management is the surgical removal of the foreign body in the bowel through minimal access surgery (laparoscopy) or laparotomy, if necessary.

Conclusion:

Even though foreign body ingestion is a very common phenomenon, most of the time is harmless and no medical care is necessary. However, when it does occur, the diagnosis of a related complication may be elusive when no suspicion is brought on by clinical history. When presented with a patient with unexplained abdominal pain, the ingestion of foreign object should be present in the differential diagnosis. Minimal Invasive surgical treatment is first option, but laparotomy might prove to be necessary.

Highlights
Medullary thyroid carcinoma with normal serum calcitonin and carcinoembryonic levels; a case with review of literature
Authors: Salh Abdulwahid M. , Ahmed Shaho F. , Oma Sami S. , Hassan Shko H. , Mohammed Shvan H. , Kakamad Fahmi H.
Published: January 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a primary neuroendocrine tumor originating from parafollicular C cells of the thyroid gland. The aim of the current study is to report a case of MTC with normal calcitonin level.

Case report:

A49-year-old male presented with a strong family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma. On ultrasound examination, the thyroid gland appeared to have a normal size but there was a well-defined solid nodule with macrocalcification, increased peri nodular vascularity and TR4. In the left thyroid lobe, mid and lower third, two adjacent nodules were seen. On blood investigations there were normal calcitonin (0.531 pg./ml) and carcinoembryonic antigen (0.984 ng/ml) levels. Total thyroidectomy was performed and the histopathological examination of the specimen revealed multifocal bilateral medullary thyroid carcinoma.

Discussion:

Sporadic MTC is usually unilateral, while hereditary form is bilateral. To date, only a few cases of MTC associated with normal calcitonin level have been reported. Some studies suggested that the pathophysiology of Calcitonin-negative medullary thyroid carcinoma (CTNMTC) is due to the dedifferentiation of the tumor.

Conclusion:

The accurate pathophysiology of medullary thyroid cancer is still unclear. More awareness regarding MTC with normal calcitonin level is required in clinical practice.

Highlights
Dispute Settlement in the World Trade Organization
Authors: Palmeter David , Mavroidis Petros C. , Meagher Niall
Published: January 2022

The WTO dispute settlement process has evolved in recent years into one of the most successful, yet complex, systems of international arbitration. In this extensively revised new edition of Palmeter, Mavroidis, and Meagher's authoritative book on WTO dispute settlement, the authors provide a comprehensive overview of each step of the WTO dispute settlement process, examining both the history of the system, the governing legal rules, and the more informal procedural aspects of the process in detail. This edition takes into account the jurisprudence of panels and the Appellate Body up to the end of 2020 and includes an analysis of the current crisis in the WTO Appellate Body. This volume is an essential tool for practitioners, diplomats, government lawyers, and students of WTO law and should equally be of interest to students of other forms of international arbitration.
A high-pinning-Type-II superconducting maglev for ICF target delivery: main principles, material options and demonstration models
Authors: Aleksandrova I. V. , Koresheva E. R. , Koshelev E. L.
Published: January 2022

Nowadays, inertial confinement fusion (ICF) research related to noncontact positioning and transport of free-standing cryogenic targets is playing an increasingly important role in this field. The operational principle behind these technologies is the magnetic acceleration of the levitating target carrier (or sabot) made from Type-II, high-temperature superconductors (HTSCs). The physics of interaction among levitation, guidance and propulsion systems is based on a quantum levitation of high-pinning HTSCs in the mutually normal magnetic fields. This paper discusses current target delivery strategies and future perspectives to create different permanent magnet guideway (PMG) systems for ICF target transport with levitation. In particular, several PMG building options for optimizing both suspension and levitation of ICF targets using an HTSC-sabot will be analyzed. Credible solutions have been demonstrated for both linear and round PMGs, including the ones with a cyclotron acceleration process to realize high-running velocities of the HTSC-sabot for a limited magnetic track. Focusing on physics, we describe in detail the main aspects of the PMG building and the results obtained from computations and proof of principle experiments. High-pinning HTSC magnetic levitation promises a stable and self-controlled levitation to accelerate the ICF targets placed in the HTSC-sabots up to the required injection velocities of 200 m/s and beyond.
Development and evaluation of a structured guide to assess the preventability of hospital-onset bacteremia and fungemia
Authors: Schrank Gregory M. , Sick-Samuels Anna , Bleasdale Susan C. , Jacob Jesse T. , Dantes Raymund , Gokhale Runa H. , Mayer Jeanmarie , Mehrotra Preeti , Mehta Sapna A. , Mena Lora Alfredo J. , Ray Susan M. , Rhee Chanu , Salinas Jorge L. , Seo Susan K. , Shane Andi L. , Nadimpalli Gita , Milstone Aaron M. , Robinson Gwen , Brown Clayton H. , Harris Anthony D. , Leekha Surbhi ,   for the CDC Prevention Epicenters Program
Published: January 2022

Objective:

To assess preventability of hospital-onset bacteremia and fungemia (HOB), we developed and evaluated a structured rating guide accounting for intrinsic patient and extrinsic healthcare-related risks.

Design:

HOB preventability rating guide was compared against a reference standard expert panel.

Participants:

A 10-member panel of clinical experts was assembled as the standard of preventability assessment, and 2 physician reviewers applied the rating guide for comparison.

Methods:

The expert panel independently rated 82 hypothetical HOB scenarios using a 6-point Likert scale collapsed into 3 categories: preventable, uncertain, or not preventable. Consensus was defined as concurrence on the same category among ≥70% experts. Scenarios without consensus were deliberated and followed by a second round of rating.

Two reviewers independently applied the rating guide to adjudicate the same 82 scenarios in 2 rounds, with interim revisions. Interrater reliability was evaluated using the κ (kappa) statistic.

Results:

Expert panel consensus criteria were met for 52 scenarios (63%) after 2 rounds.

After 2 rounds, guide-based rating matched expert panel consensus in 40 of 52 (77%) and 39 of 52 (75%) cases for reviewers 1 and 2, respectively. Agreement rates between the 2 reviewers were 84% overall (κ, 0.76; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.64–0.88]) and 87% (κ, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.65–0.94) for the 52 scenarios with expert consensus.

Conclusions:

Preventability ratings of HOB scenarios by 2 reviewers using a rating guide matched expert consensus in most cases with moderately high interreviewer reliability. Although diversity of expert opinions and uncertainty of preventability merit further exploration, this is a step toward standardized assessment of HOB preventability.
Prevalence of deficiency-zero reaction networks in an Erdös–Rényi framework
Authors: Anderson David F. , Nguyen Tung D.
Published: January 2022

Reaction networks are commonly used within the mathematical biology and mathematical chemistry communities to model the dynamics of interacting species. These models differ from the typical graphs found in random graph theory since their vertices are constructed from elementary building blocks, i.e. the species. We consider these networks in an Erdös–Rényi framework and, under suitable assumptions, derive a threshold function for the network to have a deficiency of zero, which is a property of great interest in the reaction network community. Specifically, if the number of species is denoted by n and the edge probability by
$p_n$
, then we prove that the probability of a random binary network being deficiency zero converges to 1 if
$p_n\ll r(n)$
as
$n \to \infty$
, and converges to 0 if
$p_n \gg r(n)$
as
$n \to \infty$
, where
$r(n)=\frac{1}{n^3}$
.
An autonomous navigation approach for unmanned vehicle in outdoor unstructured terrain with dynamic and negative obstacles
Authors: Zhou Bo , Yi Jianjun , Zhang Xinke , Chen Liwei , Yang Ding , Han Fei , Zhang Hanmo
Published: January 2022

At present, the study on autonomous unmanned ground vehicle navigation in an unstructured environment is still facing great challenges and is of great significance in scenarios where search and rescue robots, planetary exploration robots, and agricultural robots are needed. In this paper, we proposed an autonomous navigation method for unstructured environments based on terrain constraints. Efficient path search and trajectory optimization on octree map are proposed to generate trajectories, which can effectively avoid various obstacles in off-road environments, such as dynamic obstacles and negative obstacles, to reach the specified destination. We have conducted empirical experiments in both simulated and real environments, and the results show that our approach achieved superior performance in dynamic obstacle avoidance tasks and mapless navigation tasks compared to the traditional 2-dimensional or 2.5-dimensional navigation methods.
Optimal robot-world and hand-eye calibration with rotation and translation coupling
Authors: Wang Xiao , Song Hanwen
Published: January 2022

A classic hand-eye system involves hand-eye calibration and robot-world and hand-eye calibration. Insofar as hand-eye calibration can solve only hand-eye transformation, this study aims to determine the robot-world and hand-eye transformations simultaneously based on the robot-world and hand-eye equation. According to whether the rotation part and the translation part of the equation are decoupled, the methods can be divided into separable solutions and simultaneous solutions. The separable solutions solve the rotation part before solving the translation part, so the estimated errors of the rotation will be transferred to the translation. In this study, a method was proposed for calculation with rotation and translation coupling; a closed-form solution based on Kronecker product and an iterative solution based on the Gauss–Newton algorithm were involved. The feasibility was further tested using simulated data and real data, and the superiority was verified by comparison with the results obtained by the available method. Finally, we improved a method that can solve the singularity problem caused by the parameterization of the rotation matrix, which can be widely used in the robot-world and hand-eye calibration. The results show that the prediction errors of rotation and translation based on the proposed method be reduced to
$0.26^\circ$
and
$1.67$
mm, respectively.
A democratic program for healing: The Raspail domestic medicine method in 1840s France
Authors: Guillemain Hervé
Published: January 2022

Argument

Raspail’s domestic medicine method, popularized in 1840s France, has similarities with the practices of nineteenth century non-academic healers. His mass marketing of camphor as a universal treatment echoes the practices of “charlatans” and their circles. But Raspail is also very original in this history of popular care. As a scientist, a popularizer of encyclopedic knowledge and a political activist, he managed to blur traditional distinctions between science and politics and between popular and learned medicine. Raspail was a constant thorn in the side of academic institutions and professional organizations, which were struggling to gain legitimacy. His work took a political turn when he combined, within a single project, his approach to treatment and his call for democratizing medical care. Raspail’s method challenged institutional norms by acknowledging the importance of the patient’s contribution to the healing process, and recognizing the necessity of thwarting the occasionally deleterious effects of monopolistic medicalization.
Pflegediagnosen News
Authors: Georg Jürgen
Published: January 2022

Zusammenfassung. Pflegediagnosen dienen dazu, den Pflegebedarf von Menschen bezüglich gesundheitlicher Probleme, Risiken, Entwicklungspotenzialen und komplexer Gesundheitsproblemen oder Syndromen zu differenzieren. Der folgende Beitrag skizziert Neuer­ungen und Veränderungen der NANDA-I-Pflege­klassifikation der Perioden 2015 – 2017, 2018 – 2020 sowie 2021 – 2023.
Nonverbale Kommunikation kompetenzorientiert digital unterrichten?
Authors: Steinmetz Astrid
Published: January 2022

Zusammenfassung. Lässt sich nonverbale Kommunikation kompetenzorientiert digital unterrichten? Welches sind die Hauptkomponenten nonverbaler Kompetenz? Was bedeuten sie für die pflegerische Interaktion mit kommunikativ eingeschränkten Menschen? Welche Lehrmethoden sind effektiv und digital umsetzbar?
Kollegiale Beratung in der Gesundheits- und Krankenpflegeausbildung
Authors: Seitz Sandra , Brendebach Christine
Published: January 2022

Zusammenfassung. In einer Begleitstudie an einer Berufsfachschule für Gesundheits- und Krankenpflege wurde untersucht, wie sich die Kollegiale Beratung nach dem sechs Phasen Modell von Tietze (2018) auf Auszubildende auswirkt und ob sich die Effekte durch eine wiederholte Teilnahme verstärken. Ziel war es, eine wirksame Methode in die Ausbildung zu implementieren, die die Schüler _ innen im fachlichen Diskurs, sowie bei der Bewältigung von Heraus­forderungen aus der Pflegepraxis unterstützt.
Die Gesichtsmaske verbirgt die Gefühlslage
Authors: Hodler Ruth , Galliker Isabelle , Schlegel Claudia
Published: January 2022

Zusammenfassung. Simulationstrainings sind in der Pflegeausbildung eine wirksame Methode, um Gelerntes praktisch umzusetzen. Allerdings erschwert das Tragen von Gesichtsmasken die Verständigung zwischen Schau­spielpatienten (auch Simulationspatienten oder Simulationspersonen genannt), deren Rollentrainerinnen und Studierenden. Das Berner Bildungszentrum Pflege hat die Auswirkungen untersucht und die Beteiligten befragt.
Increasing Frequency of Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storms in the North Indian Ocean by Anthropogenic Warming and Southwest Monsoon Weakening
Authors: Swapna Panickal , Sreeraj P. , Sandeep N. , Jyoti J. , Krishnan R. , Prajeesh A. G. , Ayantika D. C. , Manmeet S.
Published: January 2022

North Indian Ocean (NIO) has shown an increase in the frequency of extremely severe and higher‐category cyclonic storms (ESCS), with maximum frequency during May. Analyses of data sets and coupled model experiments reveal that anomalous increase in Potential intensity (PI) and ocean heat‐content with higher increase during May and weakening summer monsoon circulation has led to increasing ESCS with peak frequency during May. PI is a function of environmental conditions that influence thermodynamic atmosphere–ocean disequilibrium and thermodynamic efficiency. Increase in air‐sea disequilibrium by the accelerated warming of NIO dominates the PI trend, contributes more than 70% of PI trend, remaining by the thermodynamic efficiency from increased tropical‐tropopause layer cooling. Additionally, weakening of summer monsoon circulation weakens vertical wind‐shear, weakens southward ocean heat‐transport and enhances heat accumulation, leading to increase in ESCS. Projected changes in PI and wind‐shear may further increase ESCS, making densely populated NIO region vulnerable to climate change.
Relationship Between Size and Intensity in North Atlantic Tropical Cyclones With Steady Radii of Maximum Wind
Authors: Ruan Zhenxin , Wu Qiaoyan
Published: January 2022

Infrared brightness temperature and tropical cyclone (TC) data from 2000 to 2018 were used to investigate the relationships between the radius of maximum wind (RMW), radius of gale‐force winds (34 kt or 17 m/s; R34), and intensity for intensifying and expanding North Atlantic TCs. Different relationships between intensity and R34 were found for different RMWs. Very deep convective clouds with infrared brightness temperatures ≤208 K are mainly observed on the outer edge of the RMW when it is stable. In such a case, the TC intensifies and R34 expands rapidly when very deep convective clouds occur in both the inner and outer regions, and thus a linear relationship between the intensity and R34 occurs when the RMW is stable.