bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desalination of sea water using solar still
Authors: Panuganti Lakshmi
Published: March 2022

The consumption of fresh water is increasing at a rapid rate, but its availability is decreasing day by day. The present work is based on developing a low-cost prototype working model called solar still which desalinates brackish water through distillation. The fabrication of solar still installed at the terrace of BILL GATES Bhavan of Aditya Engineering College, involves the components, wooden box of volume - 0.048 m3, lined by Aluminium sheet 6 gauge coated with black paint, a parabolic reflector (44” x 34”), preheating tray (1 × 1 m), connecting pipes (1”), water collector (2 lit capacity) and glass cover. Sea water samples from Port area (sample-1) and Uppada (sample-2) of Kakinada Beach were collected for purification. The raw water is sent from the inlet valve into the looped pipe placed in the pre-heating tray and then the pre-heated water is discharged into the solar still where distillation takes place, later the desalinated water was collected at the collecting point. The laboratory analyses of purified water from solar still has shown the quality suitable for consumption according to IS 10500:2012 drinking water standards with Water Quality Index for sample 1 as 14.199, and for sample 2 it was 2.188, both of them designated as excellent in terms of quality. The cost of the entire setup was 1500/- which gives 1.5–2 liters of purified water in a day.
Total quality management in Oman
Authors: Al Sinawi Said Khalfan Rashid , Anil Vineetha
Published: March 2022

A case study of two construction companies in the Sultanate of Oman has been considered in order to study the extent of the application of Total Quality Management (TQM) and to know the barriers that impede its application in the construction industry. TQM have been compared with the tolerable organizational cultural barriers that have been endorsed and documented by many authoritative literatures related to this topic. Quantitative and Qualitative analysis of questionnaire and interviews respectively are carried out from the construction industry sector in Oman in order to identify barriers to implementing the TQM concept. The results obtained showed that the two companies’ models are still in their infancy in the application of TQM and there are many aspects of improvement that would overcome the barriers. Therefore, one of the most appropriate solutions is to allocate people who have experience in how to implement and benefit from the TQM concept, while giving them the powers to help them implement it within the organization. The results of this research presented can be used as a conceptual framework that helps in planning and proactive management to improve TQM accreditation, and these results can also serve as a guide for further academic research.
Sustainable rural road network planning with a balance of urban and rural development
Authors: Jayasree K
Published: March 2022

Rural roads are the backbone to any country and is always a key for sustainable development. Rural roads are often considered as an entry point for poverty alleviation and employment generation. Rural Connectivity is achieved in different levels of hierarchy through a traditional hierarchical structure – National Highways, State Highways, Major District Roads, Other District roads and Village roads for achieving a long term objective of adequate road communication in India. The policies for connectivity of villages are followed mainly by population criteria. The connectivity through hierarchy is to be planned from the travel behaviour and activity generation, which depends on various profiles like demographic, socio – economic profiles, facility profile and the impedance values. This methodology proposes a strategic model that characterizes the varying profiles in an area and accounts the demand based on these profiles. An integrated model based on clustering analysis and GIS has been formulated for assessing the demand potential and thereby giving an orientation to a hierarchal rural road network configuration. This promises to be scientific tool as it was validated with the existing higher order road network such as National and State highways in the region. The study has been attempted on Medak district of Telangana state.
Reuse of red mud in construction of tailing dam
Authors: Pavani K , Jain Surabhi , Das Sarat K
Published: March 2022

Red mud, a by-product of the alumina industry, is disposed through construction of clay lined dams or dykes. Into these constructions, red mud is pumped and allowed to dry naturally. This red mud when disposed is slurry with a solid concentration of 10%, high ionic strength and pH in the range of 10-13. It should be noted that it is toxic in nature at this stage because of the harmful chemical composition present in it. Hence utilization of it in various applications results in decrease of its environmental impact. In the present study, red mud has been used in the construction of a tailing dam. Its stability has been evaluated considering various cases such as end of construction, steady seepage, rapid draw down and seismic conditions. The data from this evaluation has been compared with borrowed soil to assess the compatibility of red mud. The comparison has shown that there is little difference between usage of either borrowed soil or red mud as tailing dam material. However, red mud gives better factor of safety compared to the borrowed soil considered in this study.
Influence of Relative Density and Pile Spacing on the Behavior of Building Frame Resting on Pile Groups - A Numerical Study
Authors: Koteswara Venkata R P , Padavala Harikrishna , Vangari Manikanta
Published: March 2022

In the design of pile foundations, stiffness of the frame is neglected and superstructure is analyzed without considering the flexibility of soil mass. This leads to the inaccurate estimation of design forces (shear force and bending moments) and settlements. ANSYS software which is based on finite element method is used to analyze the influence of sand bed relative density of (35 and 70%), and pile spacing (3D and 4D) on the behavior of building frame supported by group of piles (2×2) when it subjected to vertical loads. Differential settlement and rotation are observed in case of the pile supported building frame. In addition to the pile cap rotation, pile head deflection in the horizontal direction is observed which is due to the interaction of super structure with substructure. The bending moment is negative for the dense sand compare to lose sand because of the more restraint of the piles even at the top layers.
A Comparative Study of Vertical and Batter Piles under Lateral Loading Conditions: A Review
Authors: Premjani Renu , Yadu Laxmikant , Bajaj Pankaj
Published: March 2022

Laterally loaded piles are generally used where high lateral load acts on the structures. Vertical piles along with batter piles are used in structures such as chimneys, towers, dock and harbor structures, and high-rise buildings. Various techniques have been used in literature to solve the laterally loaded pile problems. Among themp-ymethod is preferred over all other methods. Various researchers have provided analytical solutions for vertical and batter pile problems and are discussed in this paper. Experimental investigations were also carried out by various researchers on vertical and batter piles, indicating that the negative batter piles offer large resistance to lateral loads when compared with the vertical piles. The deflection values obtained from the analytical solutions were also compared with the model tests and were found to be in a good agreement. Numerical modeling conducted by various researchers on vertical and batter pile foundation by various researchers is also discussed in this paper.
Assessment of Performance and Maintenance of Flexible Pavement Using KENLAYER and HDM-4
Authors: Vamsi D. , Harinder D.
Published: March 2022

This paper describes the performance of flexible pavement using the KENLAYER and Highway Development and Management (HDM-4) software for urban roads. This study includes the study area of four-lane and two-lane roads at Hyderabad city, such as Gandi Maissama to Bachupally (GB), Bachupally to Nizampet (BN), Miyapur to Bachuapally (MB), JNTU to Pragathi Nagar (JP). The distress data like rutting, fatigue, pothole, patches, and edge drop data of each roads section were taken by adopting the manual methods. The pavement deterioration model was selected and developed based on the available distress using both the software KENLAYER and HDM-4. The current study aims to forecast the performance of specific roads in order to calculate the damage ratio. It also provides the design life of the roads as per the current and future traffic based on the distress model. Further, the maintenance of the particular roads is carried out using the HDM-4 models. It is also noticed that major damage was found in Gandi Maissama to Bachupally than the other road section. This study concluded that the comparative study of different roads section and governing factors for distress along with the allowable limits of distress in each section of the flexible pavement were found. Finally, the output of KENLAYER and HDM-4 has been compared.
Comparative study on progressive collapse analysis of RC frame buildings subjected to wind and seismic loads
Authors: Maheshwaram Abhishek , Oggu Praveen , Rao Goriparthi Mallikarjuna , Venu M.
Published: March 2022

Progressive collapse occurs when the local failure of the primary structure leads to an eventual collapse of the structure as the adjoining load-bearing elements fail to transfer the load of the lost column. This analysis checks whether the load transfer from adjoining members upon loss of columns. A 10-storey RC structure of square and circular plan geometry were considered in this study. The buildings were modelled and designed for gravity, wind and earthquake loads as per the guidelines of respective Indian Standards. Further those models were examined for progressive collapse considering different critical column removal scenarios. The DCR results were calculated for the adjacent beams and adjacent columns to check whether the structure elements reach an alternate equilibrium of the load path or not. Out of both the geometry, the circular plan building was showing better performance then square plan building and it is about 10% to 20% better based upon all the analysis and for different loading conditions.
Performance Assessment of RCC Structure Using Nonlinear Analysis
Authors: Meghana Reddy E , Srujana N
Published: March 2022

In general, the performance of the structure under earthquake vibrations is not limited to linear analysis. Linear analysis can be done to identify the preliminary parameters like natural frequency and damping ratio of the structure. To understand the structural behaviour beyond the linear elastic region, non-linear analysis is mandatory. Nonlinear analysis reveals the structural performance under the elasto-plastic state. A large deformation in the plastic region alarms the system sustainability under random motions. The quality of ductility is considered for the ratio of yield strength of the linear system to the maximum strength of the elasto-plastic system. The ductility demand versus response reduction factor of the structure is plotted. Design modifications can be done based on the ductility demands for various response reduction factors. Two structures of uniform and non-uniform varying cross-sections are considered in the study. Modal analysis is performed based on approximate and analytical methods to find the fundamental frequencies of the structures. Both the structures are identified at a linear curve of yielding to the ultimate capacity in the pushover curve. Linear time history analysis is performed to identify the performance point of the structure in the pushover curve. Non-linear dynamic analysis is performed to find the response of the structures using the Newmark method of non-linear time history analysis. The results arrived at the linear response which is validated with the linear time history analysis using ETABS. To have the response decay in the structure, peak strength in the elastoplastic range is assumed as the normalized yield strength factor. Based on the yield strength factors, ductility demand in the structure is identified.
Analysis and Design of Composite Single Span Psc-I Girder Bridge Using Midas Civil
Authors: Jagandatta M , Yaswanth Kumar G , Suresh Kumar S
Published: March 2022

With the ever-increasing sophistication of the population and the usage of vehicles, the number of modern road and bridge construction projects in India is increasing. To facilitate traffic flow, composite bridges are increasingly being implemented on a wide scale for highway building. In addition, new technology and equipment were gradually applied to road and bridge building. But, at the same time, there are several flaws in the structures due to the high technical requirements of bridge building, particularly the composite type of sections. The paper discusses the analysis and design of the Composite Single Span PSC-I Girder Bridge under IRC loadings using MIDAS. The analysis was carried out to get various outputs such as bending moment, shear force, and time-dependent characteristics like creep and shrinkage. At the construction stage, the PSC (prestressed) design of the span is carried out according to IRC standards to get output parameters such as principal stresses for prestressing tendon. The design involves calculation of the section properties, primary and secondary moments, magnitude and location of the prestressing force, profile of the tendons, losses due to prestressing and shear stresses on the section. The structure is designed in accordance with IRC guidelines.
Seismic behavior of existing elevated water tanks resting on different type of foundations
Authors: Kodanda Rama Rao P , Reddy S R K , Swaroop AHL , Nagarjuna K
Published: March 2022

It has been well recognized that heavy structures built on soft soils, experience significant impact on seismic response, because of considerable foundation movements and hence, the effect of Soil-Structure-Interaction (SSI) can be a major factor while analyzing important structures like; nuclear power plants, elevated water tanks, chimneys, etc. against seismic forces. In general, elevated water tanks that were constructed on different type of soils in seismic regions, prior to the revision of seismic codes, must be checked on behavior and safety of such structures against earthquake loads as per present codes.

In this paper, two similar elevated R.C. circular water tanks, each of 4.0 lakh liters capacity supported by two types of foundations; one with circular ring raft below the columns of tank resting on sandy soils, and the other with circular ring raft supported by piles embedded in black cotton soils, are chosen for carrying out seismic analysis. In the analysis, the water tank is idealized as a system with three degrees of freedom, treating the staging of tank as one spring attached to the mass of the water tank and the soil is treated with two springs; one in horizontal and the other in rocking mode, both attached to the soil mass and the response parameters like; time periods, base shears and displacements are worked out against earthquake loads. Results indicate that, irrespective of type of foundation, the soil play important role on seismic response of elevated water tanks by virtue of their configuration with top heavy mass and slender staging; particularly displacements are found high when they rest on loose soils. According to the new guidelines provided in the revised IS 1893 (Part-1) 2016 code, SSI effect should be considered in seismic analysis when the structure rests on loose or soft soils.
Influence of magnetic filter position on negative ion density in oxygen RF discharge
Authors: Sharma N , Chakraborty M , Mukherjee A , Saha P K
Published: March 2022

In this study, the influence of the position of a magnetic filter on electron temperature and hence on the negative ion density in helicon oxygen discharge is investigated. This study is performed with the view to improve negative ion density in radio frequency (RF) plasma. RF plasma is produced in the source region of Helicon Plasma Source (HeliPS) and the variation of electron temperature, density, and negative ion density in case of oxygen discharge is studied to determine the optimum position of the magnetic filter relative to the position of the antenna where RF power is applied. It is observed that the RF field can penetrate beyond the magnetic filter and cause additional ionization in the expansion chamber and thereby produce high energy electrons and decrease the negative ion density. Therefore, the position of the magnetic filter should be sufficiently away from the location of the antenna as it influences the formation of negative ions.
Characterizations of bounded compact approximation property by Calkin representations
Authors: Chen Dongyang
Published: March 2022

In this note we characterize the bounded compact approximation property via Calkin representations for Banach spaces.
Automatic continuity of transversal distributions
Authors: Kališnik J.
Published: March 2022

We prove that every transversal distribution on the fiber bundle

π

M

:
M
×
N
→
M

\pi _{M}:M\times N\to M

is automatically continuous.
Critical varieties and motivic equivalence for algebras with involution
Authors: de Clercq Charles , Quéguiner-Mathieu Anne , Zhykhovich Maksim
Published: March 2022

Motivic equivalence for algebraic groups was recently introduced by De Clercq [Compos. Math. 153 (2017), pp. 2195–2213], where a characterization of motivic equivalent groups in terms of higher Tits indexes is given. As a consequence, if the quadrics associated to two quadratic forms have the same Chow motives with coefficients in

F

2

\mathbb {F}_2

, this remains true for any two projective homogeneous varieties of the same type under the orthogonal groups of those two quadratic forms. Our main result extends this to all groups of classical type, and to some exceptional groups, introducing a notion of critical variety. On the way, we prove that motivic equivalence of the automorphism groups of two involutions can be checked after extending scalars to some index reduction field, which depends on the type of the involutions. In addition, we describe conditions on the base field which guarantee that motivic equivalent involutions actually are isomorphic, extending a result of Hoffmann on quadratic forms.
PathwAX II: network-based pathway analysis with interactive visualization of network crosstalk
Authors: Ogris Christoph , Castresana-Aguirre Miguel , Sonnhammer Erik L L
Published: March 2022

Motivation

Pathway annotation tools are indispensable for the interpretation of a wide range of experiments in life sciences. Network-based algorithms have recently been developed which are more sensitive than traditional overlap-based algorithms, but there is still a lack of good online tools for network-based pathway analysis.

Results

We present PathwAX II—a pathway analysis web tool based on network crosstalk analysis using the BinoX algorithm. It offers several new features compared with the first version, including interactive graphical network visualization of the crosstalk between a query gene set and an enriched pathway, and the addition of Reactome pathways.

Availability and implementation

PathwAX II is available at http://pathwax.sbc.su.se.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Sensitivity analysis for unmeasured confounding in the estimation of marginal causal effects
Authors: Ciocănea-Teodorescu I , Gabriel E E , Sjölander A
Published: March 2022

One of the main threats to the validity of causal effect estimates from observational data is the existence of unmeasured confounders. A plethora of methods has been proposed to quantify deviation from conditional exchangeability, which arises when confounding is not properly accounted for, with each method having its own set of limitations and underlying assumptions. Few methods both scale well with the increasing complexity of potential measured confounders and avoid making strong simplifying assumptions about the effect of the unmeasured confounder within strata of the measured confounders. For binary outcomes, we propose a quantification of the deviation from conditional exchangeability, based on standardization within levels of the exposure, which can accommodate any type of measured and unmeasured confounders or desired estimand. In the case of binary exposure, this amounts to varying two parameters across a grid of values, no matter how complex the measured confounding. We propose three methods of estimation for the causal estimand of interest under our proposed sensitivity analysis. This allows for an easily applied, easily interpreted sensitivity analysis that makes minimal assumptions about the type of unmeasured confounding and places no limits on the complexity of the potential measured confounders.
Three heads are better than one: cooperative learning brains wire together when a consensus is reached
Authors: Pan Yafeng , Cheng Xiaojun , Hu Yi
Published: March 2022

Theories of human learning converge on the view that individuals working together learn better than do those working independently. Little is known, however, about the neural mechanisms of learning through cooperation. We addressed this research gap by leveraging functional near-infrared spectroscopy to record the brain activity of triad members in a group simultaneously. Triads were instructed to analyze an ancient Chinese poem either cooperatively or independently. Four main findings emerged. First, we observed significant within-group neural synchronization (GNS) in the left superior temporal cortex, supramarginal gyrus, and postcentral gyrus during cooperative learning compared with independent learning. Second, the enhancement of GNS in triads was amplified when a consensus was reached (vs. elaboration or argument) during cooperative learning. Third, GNS was predictive of learning outcome at an early stage (156–170 s after learning was initiated). Fourth, social factors such as social closeness (e.g. how much learners liked one other) were reflected in GNS and co-varied with learning engagement. These results provide neuroscientific support for Piaget’s theory of cognitive development and favor the notion that successful learning through cooperation involves dynamic consensus-building, which is captured in neural patterns shared across learners in a group.
Existence of immunological memory response in true sero-negative individuals post COVID-19 molecular diagnosis
Authors: Lustig Yaniv , Mendelson Ella , Mandelboim Michal , Biber Asaf , Levin Einav G , Cohen Carmit , Regev-Yochay Gili , Schwartz Eli
Published: March 2022

Approximately 1-8% of individuals do not develop antibodies following SARS-CoV-2 infection (sero-negatives). One BNT162b2 dose resulted in potent humoral response in 14 sero-negatives and 15 sero-positives, significantly higher than the response of 15 naïve-individuals, to two doses suggesting that COVID-19 provoked a memory response in individuals without detectable antibodies.
Pharmacokinetics of ß-d-N4-Hydroxycytidine, the Parent Nucleoside of Prodrug Molnupiravir, in Nonplasma Compartments of Patients With Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection
Authors: FitzGerald Richard , Dickinson Laura , Else Laura , Fletcher Thomas , Hale Colin , Amara Alieu , Walker Lauren , Penchala Sujan Dilly , Lyon Rebecca , Shaw Victoria , Greenhalf William , Bullock Katie , Lavelle-Langham Lara , Reynolds Helen , Painter Wendy , Holman Wayne , Ewings Sean , Griffiths Gareth , Khoo Saye
Published: March 2022

ß-d-N4-hydroxycytidine (NHC), the parent nucleoside of molnupiravir, a COVID-19 antiviral, was quantified at SARS-CoV-2 transmission sites in 12 patients enrolled in AGILE Candidate-Specific Trial-2. Saliva, nasal, and tear NHC concentrations were 3%, 21%, and 22% that of plasma. Saliva and nasal NHC were significantly correlated with plasma (P < .0001).

Clinical Trials Registration. NCT04746183.
Association between Rapid Dementia Screening Test score and clinical events in elderly patients with cardiovascular disease: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Adachi Takuji , Tsunekawa Yuki , Matsuoka Akihito , Tanimura Daisuke
Published: March 2022

Aims

Cognitive decline is prevalent among patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Cognitive measurement has been considered as a standard assessment for secondary prevention; however, standard cognitive tests are sometimes infeasible due to time constraints. This study aimed to examine the association between the Rapid Dementia Screening Test (RDST), a brief screening tool for cognitive function, and clinical events in elderly patients with CVD.

Methods and results

This retrospective cohort study included 140 hospitalized patients with CVD who participated in inpatient cardiac rehabilitation (median age, 75 years; male, 67%). Cognitive function for each patient was assessed using the RDST and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), a standard test of mild cognitive impairment. The clinical events assessed as outcomes included all-cause mortality and unplanned rehospitalization. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed similar predictive accuracy for the study outcome (P = 0.337) between the RDST [area under the curve, 0.651; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.559–0.743] and MoCA (0.625; 0.530–0.720). The ROC analysis identified a cut-off value of 9 points for the RDST (sensitivity, 77.8%; specificity, 50.5%). Patients with RDST ≤9 showed a poor survival rate compared with those with ≥10 points (log-rank test, P = 0.002; hazard ratio, 2.94, 95% CI, 1.46–5.94). This result was consistent even after adjusting for potential confounders.

Conclusion

The RDST was associated with clinical events in elderly patients with CVD and its predictive capability was comparable with that of MoCA, a standard cognitive test. The RDST may be useful in CVD as an alternative screening tool for cognitive decline.
First experience with pulsed field ablation as routine treatment for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
Authors: Füting Anna , Reinsch Nico , Höwel Dennis , Brokkaar Lenny , Rahe Gilbert , Neven Kars
Published: March 2022

Aims

Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) using thermal energy can cause collateral damage. Pulsed field ablation (PFA) is a novel non-thermal energy source. Few small clinical studies have been published. We report on the first ‘real-world’ experience with pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) using PFA for paroxysmal AF (PAF).

Methods and results

Pre- and post-ablation, phrenic nerve function was assessed. After high-density left atrial (LA) bipolar voltage mapping, all PVs were individually isolated using a 13 Fr steerable sheath and a pentaspline PFA over-the-wire catheter. After ablation, bipolar voltage mapping was repeated to assess lesion formation. In 30 PAF patients (mean 63 years; 53% female), uncomplicated PFA was performed, with all PVs acutely isolated. The median procedure time was 116 min. The median PFA catheter LA dwell time was 29 min. The median fluoroscopy time was 26 min. In one patient with roof-dependent flutter, a roof line was intentionally created. In two patients, unintentional bidirectional mitral isthmus block was created. There was no phrenic nerve or oesophageal damage. In one patient, pericardial drainage after cardiac tamponade was performed. In-hospital stay and 30-day follow-up were uneventful. After 90 days, 97% of patients were in sinus rhythm.

Conclusion

PVI using PFA for PAF in a ‘real-world’ setting appears to be safe and feasible in this small patient cohort. Procedure times are homogeneous, and LA dwell time is short. Atrial ablation lines can easily be created. Unintentional ablation of atrial tissue can occur, accurate catheter alignment to the PV ostium and axis should be ensured.
Learning from a codesign exercise aimed at developing a navigation intervention in the general practice setting
Authors: Mistry Sabuj K , Harris Elizabeth , Harris Mark F
Published: March 2022

Objectives

In this study, we aimed to describe and evaluate the codesign of an intervention in general practice setting to help address navigation problems faced by the patients from the culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) community in Australia.

Methods

An experience-based codesign (EBCD) methodology was adopted using the Double Diamond design process. Two codesign workshops were conducted online with 13 participants including patients, their caregivers, health service providers, researchers, and other stakeholders. Workshops were audio-recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed.

Results

The codesign participants identified several navigation problems among CALD patients such as inadequate health literacy, cultural and language barriers, and difficulties with navigating health and social services. They believed that bilingual community navigators (BCNs; lay health workers from the same language or cultural background) could help them address these problems. However, this depended on BCNs being trained and supervised, with a clear role definition and manageable workloads, and not used as an interpreter. In undertaking the codesign process, we found that pre-workshop consultations were useful to ensure engagement, especially for consumers who participated more actively in group activities with service providers after these and their own separate small group discussions during the workshop.

Conclusion

Overall, participants identified that BCNs could offer help in addressing the problems faced by the CALD patients in accessing care in general practice setting. The codesign process provided new insights into the navigation problems faced by CALD patients in accessing care and collaboratively developed a strategy for further testing and evaluation.
Qualitative analysis of health literacy: exploring a Kenyan community’s response to childhood illness
Authors: Robbertz Abigail S , Kim Sae-Jin , Musyimi Christine , Tuikong Sylvia , Shanley Jenelle , Mutiso Victoria , Hucks Olivia , Ndetei David , Armistead Lisa
Published: March 2022

Parents are the first-line healthcare providers for their children and, thus, need to identify and treat symptoms, including knowing whether and how to seek treatment from healthcare professionals. In addition to the tangible resources necessary to address childhood illness, parents’ health literacy skills impact their treatment decisions. The current study considered data gathered through focus groups (N = 9 groups) and key informant interviews (N = 13) to explore approaches to childhood illness and their implications for health literacy among Kenyan parents of young children (birth to age 5). Participants included parents, community health workers and community leaders (e.g. village elders) from the Kibera community in Kenya. Themes, resulting from the qualitative data analysis, were mapped onto the Research Triangle Institute’s Health Literacy Skills Framework. Participants were well able to identify health risks, often turned to family and neighbors for medical advice, and relied on a range of resources to treat and prevent illnesses in their children. This range included reliance on traditional healers and religious leaders. Balancing cultural and medical viewpoints will be important considerations for interventions focused on supporting Kenyan parents’ health literacy and skills to recognize and intervene when their children are sick.
Constitutional civil–military dynamics in Southeast Asia
Authors: Teo Marcus
Published: March 2022

In Thailand, Indonesia, and Myanmar, the military’s participation in politics and governance remains commonplace. These militaries occupy bureaucracies, manage elections, and occasionally even oust governments. Yet, these militaries are not rulers with iron fists: they never fail to adopt or participate in the drafting of constitutions, and constantly appeal to political actors embodying non-democratic notions of legitimate rule for support. So why do these militaries do so, and how do those constitutions affect their participation in politics thereafter? This article explores the relationship between militaries, legitimate rulers, and constitutions in Southeast Asia. It finds that constitutions are adopted to formalize political bargains between militaries and legitimate rulers, and that those constitutions then shape the militaries’ role in politics according to their provisions until political circumstances fundamentally change. The constitutional civil–military dynamic identified herein complements existing accounts in civil–military relations and comparative constitutional scholarship, by showing how constitutions can affect the militaries’ political role in non-democratic regimes.
Gender differences in the dissection properties of ascending thoracic aortic aneurysms
Authors: Tong Jianhua , Abudupataer Mieradilijiang , Xu Xiaojuan , Zhang Zhi , Li Jun , Lai Hao , Wang Chunsheng , Zhu Kai
Published: March 2022

OBJECTIVES

Presentation, management and outcomes in the aortic dissection (AD) of ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm (ATAA) differ in gender and age. The purpose of this study is to investigate the dissection properties of male and female ATAAs.

METHODS

Peeling tests were performed to quantitatively determine the delamination strength and dissection energy of 41 fresh ATAA samples (22 males and 19 females) in relatively young (≤65 years) and elderly (>65 years) patients. The delamination strength of the ATAAs was further correlated with patient ages for males and females. The histological investigation was employed to characterize the dissected morphology.

RESULTS

For elderly patients, circumferential and longitudinal delamination strengths of the female ATAAs were statistically significantly lower than those of the males (circumferential: 31 ± 6 vs 42 ± 6 mN/mm, P < 0.01; longitudinal: 35 ± 7 vs 49 ± 10 mN/mm, P = 0.02). No significant differences were found in the delamination strength between males and females for relatively young patients. The circumferential and longitudinal delamination strengths were significantly decreased and strongly correlated with patient ages for females. However, these correlations were not present in males. Dissection routes propagated in the aortic media to create ruptured surfaces for all specimens. Peeling tests of the male ATAAs generate rougher surfaces than females.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a higher propensity of AD occurrence for the elderly females as compared to males with matched ages. Surgeons should be cognizant of the risk of AD onset later in life, especially in females.
Clinical interventions to improve adherence to urate-lowering therapy in patients with gout: a systematic review
Authors: Sinnappah Klarissa A , Stocker Sophie L , Chan Jian Sheng , Hughes Dyfrig A , Wright Daniel F B
Published: March 2022

The aim of this study was to systematically review and compare the quantitative effect of clinical interventions designed to improve adherence to urate-lowering therapy. MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus and Web of Science were searched for interventional studies reporting quantitative adherence to urate-lowering therapy information as an endpoint. Intervention details, quantitative adherence information, clinical outcome and cost-effectiveness data were extracted. Risk of bias was assessed. From 4721 records, 11 studies (3 randomised and 8 observational) met the inclusion criteria. Pharmacist- and nurse-led interventions were described, involving a mixture of patient education, telephone or mobile texting reminders, and medication blister packing. Quantitative adherence information was obtained using methods such as patient self-reporting and pharmacy-dispensing data. Most studies had a moderate-to-high risk of bias. Two of the three randomised studies reported improvement in adherence between the intervention and control groups, including a 13% increase in the mean proportion of days covered >0.8 [341/681 participants (50%) versus 289/782 participants (37%)] and an 88% increase in achieving a high Medicine Taking Behaviour questionnaire score [37/42 participants (88.1%) versus 0/40 participants (0%)]. Four of the eight observational studies reported improved adherence from baseline (ranging from 33% to 91% based on the longitudinal change in adherence metrics reported). A comparison of the different types of interventions was not feasible due to the heterogeneity between study designs and adherence metrics used. These findings support the need for more interventional studies to be conducted to aid adherence management.
Transportation of therapeutic and controlled drugs across international borders: a descriptive analysis of information available to travellers
Authors: Kissane Jack R , Flaherty Gerard T
Published: March 2022

Background

Transportation of medications across borders can present challenges for international travellers. We investigated the provision of official country-specific information available to individuals travelling with medications.

Methods

Data from official government sources relating to restrictions on the transportation of medications for personal use were analysed to determine compliance with international recommendations and identify variation in practice between countries.

Results

Schedule 1 drug classifications and import restrictions for narcotic and psychotropic drugs varied widely between countries. Some countries do not conform to recommendations from the International Narcotics Control Board.

Conclusions

Healthcare professionals should be broadly aware of country-specific restrictions on therapeutic drug transportation and be able to direct travellers to definitive sources of information.
Technical Note: Validation of the effectiveness of electric stunning for euthanasia of mature swine (Sus scrofa domesticus)
Authors: Kramer Scott A , Wagner Brooklyn K , Moeller Steve J , Bowman Andrew S , Kieffer Justin D , Gonçalves Arruda Andréia , Cressman Michael D , Pairis-Garcia Monique D
Published: March 2022

Electrocution and the use of a penetrating captive bolt gun (PCBG) are both acceptable methods of euthanasia for market weight swine. Research has demonstrated that a PCBG is effective in both growing and mature swine. Given limited to no published research base on electrocution in mature swine, the objectives of the present study were to evaluate the efficacy of a two-stage (head only followed by head to heart, 10 s contact for each) mobile electric stunner (E-STUN, Hubert HAAS TBG 96N) and to assess euthanasia outcomes when comparing E-STUN with the frontal placement of a heavy-duty PCBG (Jarvis, In-line Cylinder Style) when applied to heavy-weight (>200 kg) mature boars and sows. Effectiveness of the E-STUN and PCBG was evaluated first in unconscious anesthetized mature swine (n = 7 boars and sows per treatment; average weight 282 ± 48 kg, n = 28) to reduce the risk of failure in a conscious animal and then in conscious mature swine (n = 3 boars and sows per treatment; average weight 282 ± 63 kg, n = 12). Data from both stages were combined for analyses. Treatment efficacy was defined as any pig that achieved cardiac and respiratory arrest within 10 min after treatment application. A three-point traumatic brain injury score (0 = normal; 1 = some abnormalities; and 2 = grossly abnormal, unrecognizable) was used to evaluate six neuroanatomical structures (cerebral cortex, cerebellum, hypothalamus, thalamus, pons, and brain stem), and the presence of intracranial hemorrhage was also noted. All animals were immediately rendered insensible with E-STUN and PCBG, and no difference was noted between treatments for the detection of corneal reflex following treatment application (P = 0.11). Rhythmic breathing was absent following the administration of either E-STUN or PCBG. When evaluating the time to last heartbeat, there was a significant interaction between sex and treatment. Boars euthanized via E-STUN had a 346.8-s decrease in time to last heartbeat compared with boars euthanized via PCBG (P < 0.001), and females euthanized via E-STUN had a 479.3-s decrease in time to last heartbeat compared with females euthanized via PCBG (P < 0.001). Intracranial hemorrhage was common for both methods, and visible disruption of neural tissue was evident due to the physical nature of the PCBG. This study demonstrated that a mobile E-STUN system is as effective as a heavy-duty PCBG in inducing insensibility and death and shows promise as an alternative method for euthanizing mature pigs on-farm.
Energy value of hydrolyzed feather meal and flash-dried poultry protein for broiler chickens and pigs
Authors: Osunbami Opeadura T , Adeola Olayiwola
Published: March 2022

Three experiments were conducted to determine the metabolizable energy (ME) and nitrogen-corrected ME (MEn) contents of hydrolyzed feather meal (HFM) and flash-dried poultry protein (FDPP) for broiler chickens and to determine their digestible energy (DE) and ME for pigs. The energy-yielding ingredients in a reference diet (RD) were replaced at 0, 75, or 150 g/kg by HFM in experiment (Exp.) 1; at 0, 75, or 150 g/kg by FDPP in Exp. 2; and at 0, 150 g/kg HFM, or 150 g/kg FDPP in Exp. 3. Birds were fed a standard broiler starter diet from hatch to days 18 and 17 for respective Exp. 1 and 2, following which 144 birds (8 replicate cages of 6 birds per cage) were assigned to the three experimental diets in a randomized complete block design with body weight as the blocking factor. Experimental diets were fed for 5 d, and excreta were collected during the last 3 d. Twenty-four 20-kg barrows, individually housed in metabolic crates equipped with a feeder and drinker, were used in Exp. 3. The barrows were assigned to the three experimental diets in a randomized complete block design with body weight as a blocking factor. Following a 5-d adaptation period, feces and urine were collected for 5 d in a total collection method. Data were used to determine the regression-derived ME and MEn of HFM and FDPP for broiler chickens in Exp. 1 and 2, respectively. The DE and ME of HFM and FDPP for pigs in Exp. 3 were determined using the difference procedure. In Exp. 1, the inclusion of HFM linearly increased (P < 0.05) ME from 3,231 to 3,368 kcal/kg DM for 0 to 150 g/kg replacement of RD. The total tract retention of DM and metabolizability of energy linearly increased (P < 0.05) as replacement of RD with FDPP increased from 0 to 150 g/kg in Exp. 2. Inclusion of FDPP linearly increased (P < 0.01) ME from 3,425 to 3,591 kcal/kg DM. In Exp. 3, the diets containing 150 g/kg HFM or FDPP induced greater (P < 0.05) fecal DM and energy losses than the RD; however, the digestibility of energy across the three experimental diets was not different. The respective regression-derived ME and MEn of hydrolyzed feather meal for broiler chickens in the current study were 4,250 and 3,745 kcal/kg DM with corresponding values of 4,710 and 4,081 kcal/kg DM for flash-dried poultry protein. In pigs, 4,783 and 4,405 kcal/kg DM were the respective DE and ME of hydrolyzed feather meal, and 4,553 and 4,320 kcal/kg DM were the corresponding estimates for flash-dried poultry protein.
Early dynamical evolution of rotating star clusters in a tidal field
Authors: Tiongco Maria A , Vesperini Enrico , Varri Anna Lisa
Published: March 2022

In order to explore how the early internal rotational properties of star clusters are affected by the external potential of their host galaxies, we have run a suite of N-body simulations following the early dynamical evolution and violent relaxation of rotating star clusters embedded in a tidal field. Our study focuses on models for which the cluster’s rotation axis has a generic orientation relative to the torque of the tidal field. The interaction between the violent relaxation process, angular momentum of the cluster, and the external torque creates a complex kinematic structure within the cluster, most prominently a radial variation in the position of the rotation axis, along both the polar and azimuthal directions. We also examine the cluster’s velocity dispersion anisotropy and show that the projected anisotropy may be affected by the variation of the rotation axis directions within the cluster; the combination of projection effects and the complex kinematical features may result in the measurement of tangential anisotropy in the cluster’s inner regions. We also characterize the structural properties of our clusters as a function of their initial rotation and virial ratio and find that clusters may develop a triaxial morphology and a radial variation of the minor axis not necessarily aligned with the rotation axis. Finally, we examine the long-term evolution of these complex kinematic features.
A multi-instrument investigation of the frequency stability of oscillations above the acoustic cut-off frequency with solar activity
Authors: Kosak K , Kiefer R , Broomhall A-M
Published: March 2022

Below the acoustic cut-off frequency, oscillations are trapped within the solar interior and become resonant. However, signatures of oscillations persist above the acoustic cut-off frequency, and these travelling waves are known as pseudo-modes. Acoustic oscillation frequencies are known to be correlated with the solar cycle, but the pseudo-mode frequencies are predicted to vary in antiphase. We have studied the variation in pseudo-mode frequencies with time systematically through the solar cycle. We analysed Sun-as-a-star data from Variability of Solar Irradiance and Gravity Oscillations (VIRGO), and Global Oscillations at Low Frequencies (GOLF), as well as the decomposed data from Global Oscillation Network (GONG) for harmonic degrees 0 ≤ l ≤ 200. The data cover over two solar cycles (1996–2021, depending on instrument). We split them into overlapping 100-d long segments and focused on two frequency ranges, namely 5600–$6800\, \rm \mu Hz$ and 5600–$7800\, \rm \mu Hz$. The frequency shifts between segments were then obtained by fitting the cross-correlation function between the segments’ periodograms. For VIRGO and GOLF, we found no significant variation of pseudo-mode frequencies with solar activity. However, in agreement with previous studies, we found that the pseudo-mode frequency variations are in antiphase with the solar cycle for GONG data. Furthermore, the pseudo-mode frequency shifts showed a double-peak feature at their maximum, which corresponds to solar activity minimum, and is not seen in solar activity proxies. An, as yet unexplained, pseudo-periodicity in the amplitude of the variation with harmonic degree l is also observed in the GONG data.
Effect of surface H2 on molecular hydrogen formation on interstellar grains
Authors: Zhao Gang , Chang Qiang , Zhang Xia , Quan Donghui , Zhang Yong , Li Xiao-Hu
Published: March 2022

We investigate how the existence of hydrogen molecules on grain surfaces may affect H2 formation efficiency in diffuse and translucent clouds. Hydrogen molecules are able to reduce the desorption energy of H atoms on grain surfaces in models. The detailed microscopic Monte Carlo method is used to perform model simulations. We found that the impact of the existence of H2 on H2 formation efficiency strongly depends on the diffusion barriers of H2 on grain surfaces. Diffuse cloud models that do not consider surface H2 predict that H atom recombination efficiency is above 0.5 over a grain temperature (T) range 10 and 14 K. The adopted H2 diffusion barriers in diffuse cloud models that consider surface H2 are 80${{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ H2 desorption energies so that H2 can be trapped in stronger binding sites. Depending on model parameters, these diffuse cloud models predict that the recombination efficiency is between nearly 0 and 0.5 at 10 ≤T≤ 14 K. Translucent cloud model results show that H2 formation efficiency is not affected by the existence of surface H2 if the adopted average H2 diffusion barrier on grain surfaces is low (194 K) so that H2 can diffuse rapidly on grain surfaces. However, the recombination efficiency can drop to below 0.002 atT≥ 10 K if higher average H2 diffusion barrier is used (255 K) in translucent cloud models.