bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase Equilibrium in the Ternary CeО2-La2O3-Yb2O3 System at 1500 °С
Authors: Kornienko Oksana , Yushkevych Serhii , Bykov Oleksandr , Samelyuk Anatoliy , Bataiev Yurii
Published: April 2022

Materials based on cerium oxides and REE are perspective for use in medicine, energy and mechanical engineering due to the uniqueness of their authorities. Stationary system diagrams are the physicochemical basis for the creation of such materials as solid electrolytes for fuel comics, oxygen gas sensors, catalyst carriers, protected coatings for alloys, etc. In this work, phase equilibria and structural transformations in the system CeO2-La2O3-Yb2O3 at a temperature of 1500 oС in all international concentrations are investigated by the methods of microstistructural and X - ray phase analysis. It is established that in the triple system CeO2-La2O3-Yb2O3 fields of solid solutions based on cubic (F) modification of the structure of the structure of fluorite CeO2, monoclinic (B) and cubic (C) modification of Yb2O3 and hexagonal (A) modification of La2O3 (R) are used, which crystallizes in a Perovski-type structure with rhombic curvatures. It was found that the rarefaction of CeO2 in the crystal lattice of the ordered phase with the structure of the perovskite type LaYbO3 (R) is ~ 3 mol. %. Isothermal review of the state diagram of the systems CeO2-La2O3-Yb2O3 at reveals the presence of two three-phase (F + C + R), (A + R + F) and five two-phase (A + F), (A + R), (R + C), (F + R), (F + C) regions.
Deformation, Strain and Stress Concentration of Slab Narrow Side Induced by Different Reduction Amount
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Fei , Zong Nan Fu
Published: April 2022

A numerical simulation model has been established to obtain the deformation, strain and stress concentration of slab narrow side. The simulated temperature profiles of slab show a agreement with the results of measured temperatures by using infrared thermal camera. Moreover, the deformation, stress and strain of the slab have been investigated systematically, especially at the slab narrow side along the thickness direction. The relationship between the reduction amount and deformation, stress and strain concentration of slab narrow face has been investigated.
Thermal Spraying of MCrAlY Overlay Coating Using New Ethanol-Fueled HVOF Gun
Authors: Góral Marek , Kubaszek Tadeusz , Kościelniak Barbara
Published: April 2022

The MCrAlY overlay coatings are widely used for high-temperature protection of hot section part of gas turbines and jet engines. This type of coatings are usually thermally sprayed using APS (Atmospheric Plasma Spraying), LPPS (Low Pressure Plasma Spraying) as well as HVOF (High Velocity Oxygen Fuel) methods. In present article the newly developed ethanol based HVOF gun was used for production of this type of coatings. The stainless steel 18-8 type was used as a base material. The AMDRY 386 (Oerlikon-Metco) NiCrAlY powder was used for coatings production. In the research different oxygen (400, 500, 600 NLPM) and ethanol (16.5, 18.3, 21.3, 23.6 and 26.6 dm3/h) flow ratio were selected for experimental processes. The powder feed ratio was also changed during process. After deposition the microstructural assessment using Scanning Electron Microscopy and chemical composition analysis using EDS method were conducted. The obtained results showed that coating was above 100 μm thick depending on the process parameters. The low concentration of pores and oxides was also observed on coatings cross-section. Using of ethanol HVOF gun enables to form good quality MCrAlY coatings with 50% reduction of oxygen consumption in comparison with conventional HP/HVOF torch using kerosene such as JP 5000. The other benefit of its using is lower CO2 emission and lower concentration of carbon in coating in comparison with classic JP 5000 HVOF gun. The ethanol HVOF is a promising technology and might be considered as an replacement of LPPS and HVOF process for production of MCrAlY type of coatings.
Masson's Tumor of the Distal Phalanx May Present Like a Felon, Report of a Rare Case
Authors: Manafi Rasi Alireza , Sayyadi Shahram , Pourmojarab Ali , Rezayian Mohamadsadegh , Barati Hassan , Tavakoli Darestani Reza
Published: April 2022

Also known as intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia, Masson's tumor is a relatively rare soft-tissue vascular tumor that usually arises in the hand. Felon is an abscess formation in the distal phalanx that usually occurs following a penetrating microtrauma. We present a 30-year-old patient who was referred to our clinic with a palpable mass in the distal phalanx of the index finger after a needle stick injury. At first, the lesion was treated as a felon but finally and after treatment failure, a complete reevaluation revealed the lesion to be a Masson's tumor of the distal phalanx.
Prevalence, Molecular Identification, and Genotyping of Candida Species Recovered from Oral Cavity among Patients with Diabetes Mellitus from Tehran, Iran
Authors: Zarei Narges , Roudbary Maryam , Roudbar Mohammadi Shahla , dos Santos André Luis , Nikoomanesh Fatemeh , Mohammadi Rasoul , Shirvan Bahador Nikoueian , Yaalimadad Sanaz
Published: April 2022

Background:

Oral candidiasis (OC) has been noticed as a common mucous membrane infection in immunocompromised patients such as that diabetes. This study, focused on the genotyping of Candida albicans and enzymatic activities of Candida species recovered from oral mucosa among diabetes patients and healthy individuals.

Materials and Methods:

Specimens were obtained from oral mucosa of One-hundred and sixty patients with type 2 diabetic and 108 healthy individuals. All isolates were definitely identified by ribosomal DNA (rDNA) gene sequencinghHydrophobicity, hemolytic activities of Candida species and genotypes of C. albicans were determined through polymerase chain reaction (CA-INT).

Results:

, Eighty eight (55%) samples out of 160, were positive for Candida species in diabetic patients. Moreover, 79.5% (70/88) and 20.5% (18/88) isolates belonged to the C. albicans and non-albicans Candida species respectively. Three genotypes of C. albicans have recovered in diabetic patients: genotype A (71.42%), B (21.42%), and C (7.14%). In healthy individuals, 42.6% (46/102) Candida species recovered from oral cavity, with the highest prevalence of genotype A (76.6% of C. albicans). Additionally, hydrophobicity and hemolytic activities from Candida species were significantly greater in diabetes patients than healthy nondiabetic subjects.

Conclusion:

Collectively, C. albicans was the most causative agent isolated from diabetes patients and non-diabetes healthy individuals. Genotype A, as the most remarkable genotype, should be mentioned in both groups. Higher potential hydrophobicity and hemolytic activities of Candida species in diabetic patients compared to healthy cases suggest these features triggering pathogenicity of OC in diabetes patients.
Comparison of Cutting Efficiency and Safety of 10/0.04 RaCe and Mtwo Rotary File Systems in Reaching the Full Root Canal Working Length
Authors: Abedi Pouya , Gilani Peiman , Fathollahi Mahmood Sheikh , Iranmanesh Foad
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

Both RaCe and Mtwo rotary systems introduced the 10/0.04 file as the first file used in the root canal (Glide path). This study aims to compare different factors of both the rotary systems, including cutting efficacy, file fracture, topography changes of files, and changes of the root canal.

Materials and Methods:

In this laboratory study, 12 RaCe and 12 Mtwo files were prepared and tested on 24 resin blocks with 30° curvature. The time to reach the working length was recorded. Topographical changes of the files have been observed with a stereomicroscope if needed. Changes in resin blocks were measured by photographing and using Photoshop software. Data were analyzed through an independent two-sample t test and likelihood-ratio chi-squared test.

Results:

Time to reach the working length was significantly lower in the RaCe group than in the Mtwo group (3.57 ± 0.56 s vs. 10.33 ± 2.25 s, P < 0.001). File fracture did not occur in any of the two rotary systems. Topographical changes of the files in RaCe group were also less than the Mtwo group (P = 0.032).

Conclusion:

The RaCe file is faster in reaching the working length. Both files are safe and do not cause drastic changes in the root canal.
Validation of Questionnaires in Screening for Restorative Treatment Need among 15-, 21-, and 40-year olds
Authors: Kämppi Antti , Paananen A. , Laajala A. , Karki S. , Kukkola K. , Molkoselkä E. , Mäkynen A. , Laitala M.L. , Päkkilä J. , Anttonen Vuokko , Tanner Tarja
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the association between three age-specific questionnaires in three age groups and restorative dental treatment need.

Materials and methods:

Three separate questionnaires were designed on etiology of dental caries in different age groups. Randomly selected 15- (n = 36), 21- (n = 21), and 40-year-old (n = 45) subjects answered these questionnaires. Responses were compared to restorative treatment need (DT) according to the clinical oral examination, which calibrated examiner performed.

Results:

Responses to questionnaires were only indicative in prediction of restorative treatment need at individual level. Kappa values for 15-, 21-, and 40-year olds, between responses and restorative treatment need were 0.01, 0.44, and 0.33, respectively.

Conclusion:

The need for restorative care could plausible be screened with a questionnaire among the 21- and 40-year olds, but not among 15-year olds in a country with low caries prevalence. Further development of questionnaires and studies are needed.
U is Dissimilar to U for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Transmission Through the Infected Whole Blood Unit
Authors: Raturi Manish , Nambiyar Reshma , Kala Mansi , Bansal Naveen
Published: April 2022

It is a known fact that antiretroviral treatment (ART) is highly efficacious in reducing the sexual transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In addition, it is clear now that those infected and living with HIV and having an undetectable viral load below 200 copies per mL, measured 4 to 6 monthwise, do not transmit it sexually to their partners. Therefore, U = U (Undetectable = Untransmittable; where symbol = means similar to) campaign is the message of a new UNAIDS explainer. The authors herein report the blood donation made by an HIV-I positive Indian male under the existing policy of confidential unit exclusion at their blood center. It was alarming because he was driven by an incorrect belief that being in a state of sexual nontransmissibility, due to the regular intake of ART, his donated blood was safe and suitable for blood transfusion too. He firmly believed that the ART he was receiving was highly efficacious in reducing the transmission of HIV through sexual intercourse and misconstrued the same for blood transfusion. After a thorough consultation and discussion with the transfusion medicine specialist, the individual could understand that U = U certainly, does not ascribe to the blood transfusion-related transmission due to a bigger inoculum and the intravenous route of administration.
A Case of Late-Onset Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding in an Exclusively Breastfed Infant Emphasizing the Need for Revision of Vitamin K Prophylaxis Policy
Authors: John Sherin S , Jose Ebin , Joseph Bivin , Rafi Aboobacker Mohamed
Published: April 2022

A 4-month-old male child presented with a history of seizure and vomiting. There was no history of fever, fall, or any other trauma. On examination, there was anisocoria, and anterior fontanelle was bulging and nonpulsating. Computerized tomography revealed an acute on chronic bilateral subdural hematoma (left > right) with a midline shift. He had no relevant past or family history suggestive of any bleeding disorder. Blood investigations revealed anemia with prolonged prothrombin time (PT)/international normalized ratio/and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT). Mixing study was done and it showed a correction with pooled normal plasma. The possibility of coagulation factor deficiency was confirmed. Further, mixing studies and factor assays revealed normal levels of fibrinogen and Factor VIII, with a reduced level of Factor IX. Since both PT and APTT were prolonged and Factor IX level was low, a deficiency of Vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors was suspected. The child was immediately given intravenous Vitamin K injection. The diagnosis of Vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) was confirmed by protein induced by Vitamin K absence testing. Unfortunately, the child succumbed to the complications of the intracranial bleed.
Influence of Pretransplant Anemia on Red Blood Cell Transfusions in Myeloma Patients Undergoing Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Augustine Merline , Murugesan Mohandoss , Nair Chandran K. , Nayanar Sangeetha Keloth
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives:

Anemia during peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) transplant is considered a bad prognostic marker. The study aimed to determine whether pretransplant anemia influence peritransplant transfusion requirements in myeloma patients.

Methods:

Myeloma patients planned for PBSC transplant were stratified based on hemoglobin levels at time of mobilization, PBSC collection, and PBSC infusion. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to study the predictors for good mobilization, adequate CD34 yield by apheresis, and red blood cell (RBC) transfusion in the peritransplant period.

Results:

Of 67 patients, the prevalence of anemia at mobilization, PBSC collection, and PBSC infusion was 37%, 58%, and 70%, respectively. Eighty-five percent had good mobilization with peripheral blood CD34 count of 50 cells/μl (8–123) and 81% had adequate CD34 yield with first apheresis. Thirty-two percent patients received peritransplant RBC transfusion with the median of one unit (range: 0–5). Anemia on the day of infusion did influence the RBC transfusions in the peritransplant period (P = 0.03).

Conclusion:

One third of myeloma patients require RBC transfusion support in the peritransplant period. We identified pretransplant anemia neither influenced mobilization nor PBSC collection but increased the risk for RBC transfusion in the peritransplant period.
Gene therapy – Principles and Applications
Authors: Pathak Sangeeta
Published: April 2022

The concept of gene therapy dates back to the 1960s and 1970s and it is yet to come of age, as there is a paucity of reliable, long-term data on the safety and efficacy of this novel therapy. It is fast emerging as a promising approach to treat, cure or prevent genetic based diseases by correction of defective genes that are responsible for disease development. Gene therapy is a key treatment strategy for disorders caused by a missing or faulty gene. It involves introduction of functional genes into appropriate cells so that they can produce sufficient amounts of proteins, encoded by the transferred gene or turn off genes that are causing problems and eventually resulting in permanent correction of the disorder. While the concept of gene replacement therapy is mostly suitable for recessive diseases, novel strategies have been suggested that are capable of also treating conditions with a dominant pattern of inheritance. Gene therapy treatments are of broadly two types, Germline gene therapy, & Somatic Germline gene therapy. There are two methods for administering gene therapy -Ex vivo & in-vivo. There are two main parts to gene replacement: Genes and Vectors. Gene therapy is useful for hematologic conditions as Hemoglobinopathies, Hemophilia and Inherited bone marrow failure. Future Prospective of Gene Therapy in Transfusion Medicine, work is being done to explore ex vivo generation of RBCs utilizing various cell fractions, including hematopeitic progenitor cells from cord blood and adult sources. Cost of therapy and ethical issues are the limiting factors for the use of Gene therapy.
Management of Safe and Adequate Blood Supply in COVID-19 Pandemic Amid National Lockdown
Authors: Vachhani Nishith Ashvinbhai , Nandani Sanjiv L , Domadiya Yogesh S , Bhatt Jyoti P
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives:

Blood centers around the globe are dependent on voluntary blood donation from healthy individuals to meet their blood supplies. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 pandemic has become one of the most critical global health emergencies of modern times. Blood transfusion service (BTS) in India faced numerous challenges during the COVID-19 outbreak and the following imposed country lockdown. We aim to identify the challenges faced by a standalone blood center and explore the mitigation strategies implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study conducted at a standalone blood center done over a time period of 05 months including the nationwide lockdown phase. Personal invitation of donors, social media awareness, and in-house donation drives were implemented to improve donor inflow. Restricted donor entry, stringent donor selection, and adequate sanitization strategies were the key steps adopted to ensure the safety of donors and staffs.

Results:

After a declaration of nationwide lockdown in India, blood donation showed a drop of 13.36% and blood demand was also reduced by 25.70% in our study.

Conclusions:

The COVID-19 pandemic affected blood donation process and blood supply and adversely affected BTSs. BTS should always be vigilant to adopt new practices even before guidelines are set by regulatory authorities in adverse situations. Restrictive blood transfusion strategies need to be emphasized in the country.
Artificial intelligence, nano-technology and genomic medicine: The future of anaesthesia
Authors: Naaz Shagufta , Asghar Adil
Published: April 2022

Nanotechnology with artificial intelligence (AI) can metamorphose medicine to an extent that has never been achieved before. AI could be used in anesthesia to develop advanced clinical decision support tools based on machine learning, increasing efficiency, and accuracy. It is also potentially highly troublesome by creating insecurity among clinicians and allowing the transfer of expert domain knowledge to machines. Anesthesia is a complex medical specialty, and assuming AI can easily replace the expert as a clinically sound anesthetist is a very unrealistic expectation. This paper focuses on the association and opportunities for AI developments and deep learning with anesthesia. It reviews the current advances in AI tools and hardware technologies and outlines how these can be used in the field of anesthesia.
A comparative study of sedo-analgesic effect of dexmedetomidine and dexmedetomidine with ketamine in postoperative mechanically ventilated patients
Authors: Gupta Bikram K. , Mhaske Vanita R. , Pai Vishal Krishna , Mishra L.D.
Published: April 2022

Background and Aims:

To compare the sedoanalgesic effects of dexmedetomidine alone or with combination of ketamine.

Material and Methods:

After getting ethical approval and informed patient consent, 60 adult surgical patients, were randomly divided into two groups. Group KD (n = 30); received dexmedotomidine 0.5 μg/kg/h mixed with ketamine 0.5 μg/kg/h and Group DEX (n = 30); received dexmedotomidine at 0.5 mg/kg/h infusion only. In both the groups, study drugs were titrated (dexmedetomidine- 0.2-0.7 μg/kg/h and ketamine 0.2-0.7 mg/kg/h) to achieve target sedation. Hemodynamic variables, pain scores, sedation scores, and patient satisfaction were recorded. Qualitative and Quantitative data were analyzed with Pearson Chi-squared test and analysis of variance test, respectively. All analyses were done by using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 16.0.

Results:

Pain scores were higher in group DEX than in group KD at 2 h and 4 h which was statistically significant (P < 0.05). At the end of 2 h, sedation scores were higher in group KD than in group DEX and was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Length of intensive care unit stay was almost comparable in both groups, and the time to tracheal extubation was lesser in ketamine-dexmedetomidine group as compared to the dexmedetomidine alone group. However the difference was statistically non-significant.

Conclusions:

By combining dexmedetomidine with ketamine we observed lower incidence of hypotension and bradycardia. Dexmedetomidine with ketamine combination therapy could be used safely and effectively as sedo-analgesic agent.
Prevalence of Plateau Iris Syndrome among Patients Presenting with Primary Angle Closure and Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma in a Tertiary Eye Care Hospital
Authors: Alshomar Khalid , Alsirhy Ehab , Mirza Abdullah , Osman Mohamed , Alobaidan Abdullah , Osman Essam A.
Published: April 2022

PURPOSE:

Glaucoma is a leading cause of visual impairment worldwide, and plateau iris syndrome (PIS) is the most common nonpupillary block mechanism of angle closure. This study aims to assess the prevalence of PIS among Saudi population.

METHODS:

It is a prospective observational study that examined patients previously diagnosed with chronic angle closure. Those patients already underwent peripheral laser iridotomy (PLI) and were assessed clinically and by ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM).

RESULTS:

A total of 147 eyes in 77 patients were included in this study. The mean age among subjects was 61.2 years, and almost 69% were females. Chronic angle closure was noted to be bilateral in 91% of patients, whereas 5% had their left eye involved and 4% had right eye involved. The mean intraocular pressure (IOP) before PLI and after laser treatment was 19.3 and 16.2, respectively. The mean visual acuity before and after PLI was 0.3 logMAR. After UBM examination, plateau iris was found in 41.5% of subjects. The anterior chamber (AC) depth was noted to be deeper in PIS patients (P = 0.046). Other risk factors were observed in our study including place of residency (P = 0.048) and preintervention IOP (P = 0.032).

CONCLUSION:

PIS is the most common mechanism of nonpupillary block angle closure. In addition to clinical findings, UBM is important to reach the appropriate diagnosis. This study reviewed the prevalence of PIS with the aid of UBM; it was found consistent with previous reports. In addition, PIS risk factors included AC depth, place of residency, and preintervention IOP.
Determining the National Cataract Surgical Rate in Pakistan
Authors: Khan Asad A. , Awan Haroon R. , Khan Aliya Q. , Hussain Arif , Awan Zahid H. , Jadoon Mohammad Z.
Published: April 2022

PURPOSE:

Cataract surgical rate (CSR) (cataract surgeries performed per million population) is an eye health indicator that helps assess the state of eye care services. A survey in 2002 revealed a CSR of 2254. The current survey aimed to establish a new and sustainable development goal compliant baseline for the volume of cataract surgery performed by different service providers in Pakistan at district, provincial, and national levels.

METHODS:

The survey was commissioned by the National Committee for Eye Health under the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination. The methodology used for the survey included identification and mapping of all service providers by district and category and data collection from all districts in the country.

RESULTS:

There were more cataract surgeries performed in women than men with a male-to-female ratio of 0.95. About 98.9% of all cataract surgeries were performed with intraocular lenses, while 63.9% were performed by phacoemulsification. About 17.7% of cataract surgical services were provided in the government sector (including Forces), while nongovernmental organizations and the private sector contributed to 82.3%. Pakistan achieved a national CSR of 5307 which is almost double the CSR determined in 2002.

CONCLUSION:

In order to achieve a CSR of 7500+ by 2030, there is a need for at least 1,840,000 cataract surgeries to be performed annually. If there is no change in the current annual cataract surgical output, the CSR will drop to 4628 by 2030.
Sutureless Versus Suture Technique for Conjunctivolimbal Autografting in Primary Pterygium Excision
Authors: Prasad Shimna C. , Goudinho Sheldon J. , Isaac Shela M. , Sumangala Susha G.
Published: April 2022

PURPOSE:

Conjunctivolimbal autograft is proposed to be the best treatment for pterygium and autograft can be fixed either with sutures or without. This study was undertaken to assess and compare the efficacy of sutureless versus suture techniques for conjunctivolimbal autografting in primary pterygium.

METHODS:

A prospective observational study was conducted in the department of ophthalmology in a tertiary care center from March 2018 to September 2019. Twenty consecutive patients in the age group of 20 to 70 years with primary pterygium were included. Ten patients underwent suture technique for autograft placement, whereas ten patients underwent sutureless technique. Comparison of both the groups was done in terms of duration of surgery and postoperative symptoms. Data were entered into Microsoft Excel software and analyzed using SPSS software.

RESULTS:

In the first group, the mean duration of surgery was 48 min and it was 38 min in the second group. The difference was statistically significant (P = 0.000). Postoperatively, foreign-body sensation was present in nine patients in the first group, whereas it was absent among the patients in the second group. The difference was statistically significant (P = 0.000). Four patients in the first group and two patients in the second group had postoperative hyperemia and only one patient in the first group had conjunctival chemosis. A graft-related complication was present in one patient in the second group.

CONCLUSION:

Sutureless technique is a better technique as compared to conventional suture technique.
Outcome Following Ovarian Drilling in Nigerian Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Ameh Nkeiruka , Adesiyun Adebiyi G. , Okohue Jude E. , Adewole Nathaniel D.
Published: April 2022

Background:

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition characterized by endocrinopathies which can lead to infertility. Various modalities of treatment have been employed including ovarian drilling, but the outcome of such ovarian drilling in Nigerian women is not known.

Aim:

This is a systematic review of the outcome of ovarian drilling on the menstrual pattern and pregnancy rate in Nigerian women.

Materials and Methods:

Google scholar and PubMed databases were searched for studies that relate to PCOS management using ovarian drilling and other modalities in Nigeria. The citation lists of relevant articles and studies were also searched. Case reports, retrospective studies, and prospective studies were included. Review articles, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis were excluded. Six studies were found to be suitable and consisted of two case reports and prospective studies each, respectively, and one clinical trial and retrospective study each, respectively.

Results:

There were a total of 107 patients aged 17–49 years. While all the patients presented with a complaint of abnormal menstruation, 50%–70% complained of inability to conceive. All the patients had used clomiphene citrate as first-line drug to manage their complaints. Ovarian drilling was carried out using the conventional unipolar diathermy and 4 or more drills per ovary. Following the procedure, 76% resumed normal menstruation and 30% conceived.

Conclusion:

Reports of ovarian drilling in Nigeria reveal a positive outcome but the number of published studies are few and quality of evidence low. Further well-designed studies including randomized controlled trials are needed to make definite conclusions.
Accessibility and Utilization of Family Planning Services in Nigeria During the Coronavirus Disease-2019 Pandemic
Authors: Esievoadje Evonemo Susan , Odimegwu Chioma Laura , Agoyi Mary Oluwakemisola , Jimoh Aminat Oluwabukola , Emeagui Omoadoni Diana , Emeribe Nana , Ogbonna Vivian Ifeoma , Oseji Mininim , Buowari Dabota Yvonne
Published: April 2022

Background:

Family planning services are an important aspect of reproductive health as it helps in the improvement of maternal health. During the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, several measures were taken by the Nigerian government to control the virus, which included restriction of movements including curfews and lockdown.

Aim:

This article is a review of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the accessibility of family planning services in Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

This is a narrative review of articles related to the accessibility of family planning services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The literature search was done using Medline, Google Scholar, and PubMed. The keywords used for searching for the literature were COVID-19 and family planning services in Nigeria. The literature search review was done from June 2020 to November 2021.

Results:

The study found both supply- and demand-side service disruptions. There was a disruption in the supply chain management system, affecting the production and distribution of family planning commodities. The demand-side issues were because of the lockdown measures on health seeking behaviour, absence, and increased cost of transportation.

Conclusion:

Accessing and utilizing various contraceptive methods were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This is due to several factors including the restriction of movements put in place by the Nigerian government to control the pandemic. The improvement of the use of various pregnancy preventive strategies has the potential to reduce poverty. It is imperative to develop adaptive systems to provide ongoing contraceptive services, by implementing innovations to sustain demand and supply of family planning services during pandemics.
Application of Computer Vision in T-Shirt Dimensions Measurement
Authors: Le Ngoc-Bich , Pham Thi-Thu-Hien , Phan Quoc-Hung , Debnath Narayan C. , Le Ngoc-Huan
Published: April 2022

This paper presents a solution to automatically measure the T-shirt dimensions in the garment industry. To address this goal, the paper focuses on utilizing image processing to determine the T-shirt's dimensions. The processing algorithm was provided along with the proposed recognition regions novel approach that was expected to deliver faster processing speed and enhance accuracy. The feasibility was demonstrated by characterizing the accuracy and processing speed. Specifically, five distinctive dimensions were successfully identified and measured; with the replication of 30, the discrepancy varies from 0.095% (for chest) to 2.088% (for collar). The divergence is insignificant compared with the granted tolerances. Finally, the processing time and the mechanical structure of the system deliver productivity of 22 products/minute which is approximately 10 times more rapidly than manual measurement (25 seconds).
Managing Trade-off Between Subscription Load and Latency in Vehicular Edge Platform
Authors: Takada Takumu , Banno Ryohei
Published: April 2022

Adding connectivity to vehicles is attracting much attention toward developing smarter vehicles such as autonomous cars. To obtain and utilize real-time information from vehicles, techniques that combine the concept of edge computing and publish/subscribe messaging model have been proposed. However, there is an issue that the increase in the number of edge servers imposes a heavy load upon a subscriber for managing connections to them. To address this issue, we propose an edge-based platform with the functionality of adjusting the number of connections to edge servers. Experimental results clarify the trade-off characteristic between subscription load and latency.
Impressions of the Biota Associated With Waterfalls and Cascades from a Holocene Tufa in the Zrmanja River Canyon, Croatia
Authors:   Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Croatia, Pavlović Gordana , Zupanič Jožica ,   Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Croatia, Prohić Esad ,   Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Croatia, Tibljaš Darko ,   Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Croatia
Published: April 2022

The following types of calcified deposits characterize Holocene waterfall tufas in the Zrmanja river: mossy deposits, algally laminatedcrusts and algally coated grains. Petrological examination revealed,that abundant organic remains belonging to mosses and algae provide supporting material, over which tufa accretion takes place, leavingwell-defined impressions of the biota. Postgenetic features likemeniscus, isopachous and drusy mosaic calcite spar cementation, aswell as aggradational neomorphism are only rarely present.
The Origin and Importance of the Dolomite-Limestone Breccia Between the Lower and Upper Cretaceous Deposits of the Adriatic Carbonate Platform: An Example from Ćićarija Mt. (Istria, Croatia)
Authors:   Croatian Geological Survey, Zagreb, Croatia, Vlahović Igor , Tišljar Josip ,   Faculty of Mining Geology and Petroleum Engineering, University of Zagreb, Croatia, Fuček Ladislav ,   Croatian Geological Survey, Zagreb, Croatia, Oštrić Nenad ,   Croatian Geological Survey, Zagreb, Croatia, Prtoljan Božo ,   Croatian Geological Survey, Zagreb, Croatia, Velić Ivo ,   Croatian Geological Survey, Zagreb, Croatia, Matičec Dubravko ,   Croatian Geological Survey, Zagreb, Croatia
Published: April 2022

On the NE slopes of Ćićarija Mt. (N Istria) a 120-150 m thick complex composed of dolomite-limestone breccia crops out between the Lower and Upper Cretaceous deposits. This studied breccia sequence is of post-sedimentary, tectogenic-diagenetic origin. It was formed bypoly phase tectonic fracture of the Upper Albian to Lower Cenomanian early- and late-diagenetic dolomite succession with relics of recrystallized limestone, which enabled very important subsequent diagenetic alteration. This included partial dissolution, dedolomitization,recrystallization and calcitization of the fine-grained, crushed dolomite matrix, and centripetal dissolution of dolomite fragments and their cementation by calcite and ferroan calcite cements, as wellas the partial collapse of fragments from the roofs of dissolution cavities and limited late-diagenetic silicification (the silica surplus originating from layers of diagenetic quartz from underlying Upper Albian deposits). Such a complex pattern of different events resulted in the high variability of breccia characteristics over relatively small distances, especially near more intensively tectonized zones. The contemporaneous stratigraphic level (Lower to Upper Cretaceous transition) in other parts of the Adriatic Carbonate Platform is also characterised by predominantly late-diagenetic dolomites with relics of limestones (including local occurrences of early-diagenetic dolomites) which are, in more tectonized areas, late-diagenetically altered into tectogenic-diagenetic breccias.
Water Reservoir Within the Karst Field Overburden: Gusić Polje, Croatia
Authors:   Croatian Geological Survey, Zagreb, Croatia, Pavićić Ante , Benamatić Davor ,   MOHO, Pešt Damir ,   Elektropropjekt, Marasović Marijan ,   Elektropropjekt
Published: April 2022

The Gusić reservoir is a compensation basin constructed in the karstfield. The reservoir lies on a Quaternary overburden free of ponors(sinkholes) and suffosions. After the reservoir filling the water losse swere up to <6.4 m3/s. The bottom impermeability has been ensured with a 0.4 m thick clay base blanket. During reservoir exploitation,suffosions and ponors developed through which 2 m3/s water waslost. Such conditions required reservoir repair within a short time frame of approximately 10 days during which the power plant was shut down. When the reservoir was emptied, a resistivity sounding(Wenner electrodes arrangement at five depth levels) was conducted on the reservoir bottom and clay blanket. An alternative concept has also been considered - the construction of a new reservoir area that has similar hydrogeological conditions. The solution for the possible impact of groundwater (air) "pressure" could be the construction of a horizontal "event" in the deepest part of the palaeodepression, wherethe bedrock karstification is the most intensive and the interrelation between groundwater and air pressure on the overburden is possible. The reservoir bottom impermeability could be resolved with a clay blanket or with synthetic materials.
Poincaré series of multiplier and test ideals
Authors: Àlvarez Montaner Josep , Núñez-Betancourt Luis
Published: April 2022

We prove the rationality of the Poincaré series of multiplier ideals in any dimension thus extending the main results for surfaces of Galindo and Monserrat and Alberich-Carramiñana et al. Our results also hold for Poincaré series of test ideals. In order to do so, we introduce a theory of Hilbert functions indexed over

\mathbb{R}

which gives a unified treatment of both cases.
Многомасштабное понижение порядка модели термоупругости с фазовым переходом с использованием обобщенного многомасштабного метода конечных элементов
Authors: Ammosov Dmitrii Andreevich , Vasiliev Vasilii Ivanovich , Vasil'eva Mariya Vasil'evna , Stepanov Sergei Pavlovich
Published: April 2022

Для освоения криолитозоны необходимо строить и численно реализовывать математические модели мультифизичных процессов термоупругости с фазовыми переходами первого рода в основаниях инженерных сооружений и зданий. Численная реализация таких моделей связана с вычислительными трудностями из-за наличия в прикладных задачах различного вида неоднородностей и нелинейности определяющих уравнений, для чего требуются очень мелкие сетки, увеличивающие вычислительные затраты. На основе обобщенного многомасштабного метода конечных элементов разработан численный метод решения задачи термоупругости с фазовыми переходами, главная идея которого состоит в построении многомасштабных базисных функций, учитывающих неоднородности среды. Аппроксимация на мелкой сетке проводится с помощью метода конечных элементов со стандартными линейными базисными функциями. Для проверки точности метода численно найдены решения двумерной и трехмерной задач в неоднородных средах. Результаты показывают, что многомасштабный метод может обеспечить хорошую аппроксимацию решения задачи термоупругости с фазовым переходом на мелкой сетке при значительном сокращении размерности дискретной задачи.
Обзор методов построения точных решений уравнений математической физики, основанных на использовании более простых решений
Authors: Aksenov Alexander Vasilievich , Polyanin Andrei Dmitrievich
Published: April 2022

Дан краткий обзор методов построения точных решений нелинейных уравнений математической физики и функционально-дифференциальных уравнений с частными производными, которые основаны на использовании более простых решений. Эти методы базируются на следующих двух основных идеях: 1) простые точные решения рассматриваемых уравнений могут использоваться для поиска более сложных решений этих же уравнений; 2) точные решения одних уравнений могут служить основой для построения решений более сложных родственных уравнений или других классов уравнений, имеющих аналогичные нелинейные члены. В частности, показано, как исходя из простых решений с помощью преобразований сдвига и масштабирования можно найти более сложные точные решения; продемонстрировано, что в некоторых случаях можно получать достаточно сложные решения путем добавления слагаемых к более простым решениям; рассматриваются ситуации, когда с помощью однотипных простых решений можно построить более сложное составное решение; описан метод поиска точных решений уравнений с несколькими пространственными переменными исходя из решений родственных уравнений с одной пространственной переменной. Большинство предложенных методов приводят к небольшому объему промежуточных вычислений, их эффективность иллюстрируется на конкретных примерах. Рассматриваются нелинейные уравнения теплопроводности, реакционно-диффузионные уравнения, нелинейные волновые уравнения, уравнения гидродинамики и газовой динамики. Показано, что некоторые решения уравнений с частными производными можно использовать для построения точных решений более сложных уравнений с запаздыванием. Описан метод, позволяющий строить точные решения функционально-дифференциальных уравнений с частными производными, которые содержат искомые функции с растяжением или сжатием аргументов.
Исследование перехода к неустойчивости фронта кипения воды при инжекции в геотермальный резервуар
Authors: Tsypkin Georgii Gennadevich
Published: April 2022

Рассматривается задача об устойчивости фронта кипения, движущегося с постоянной скоростью в пористом проницаемом геотермальном резервуаре. Проведено исследование дисперсионного уравнения, полученного методом нормальных мод. Аналитически показано затухание неустойчивых малых возмущений, соответствующих большим значениям безразмерного волнового числа. На плоскости основных параметров построены пучки кривых нейтральной устойчивости, отделяющие область устойчивости от области неустойчивости. Эволюция нейтральных кривых при изменении параметров показывает, что увеличение проницаемости и начальной температуры, а также уменьшение пористости и начального давления приводит к расширению области неустойчивости. Представлена зависимость критического безразмерного волнового числа, при котором происходит переход к неустойчивости, от проницаемости пористой среды. Найденные критические значения позволяют оценить характерный размер наиболее неустойчивого возмущения, который изменяется в зависимости от параметров процесса. При характерных значениях параметров геотермального резервуара он варьируется в диапазоне от полуметра до нескольких метров. Обсуждаются возможные типы переходов к неустойчивости поверхностей раздела, возникающих в задачах фильтрации.
PARÇALI OLARAK ÜRETİLEN 3 BOYUTLU YAZICI ÇIKTILARINDA KULLANILAN BAĞLANTI TİPLERİNİN MEKANİK AÇIDAN DEĞERLENDİRİLMESİ
Authors: ÇELİK Talip , MUTLU İbrahim , ÖZKAN Arif
Published: April 2022

Üç boyutlu (3B) yazıcı teknolojisi, günümüzde sıklıkla tercih edilmeye başlayan, önemli ve popüler teknolojidir. Bu teknoloji gelecekte üretimin farklı alanlarında kullanılabilir olması ile tasarımdaki kısıtlılıklar tamamen ortadan kalkacaktır. Bununla birlikte, 3B yazıcı teknolojisi sınırlı yapı hacmine sahiptir. Bu sebeple, oluşturulan hacim parçalı tasarlanır ve bu parçalar gövdeyi oluşturmak için birbirine bağlanır. Hacimce büyük bir modelin 3B yazıcılardan çıktısını alırken bölümlendirilmiş parçaların bağlantısı çeşitli bağlantı tipleri ile yapılabilmektedir. Bu çalışmanın amacı, 3B yazıcı ile imal edilen parçalı bir üründe kullanılan bağlantı tiplerinin mukavemet açısından değerlendirmek ve en uygun bağlantı tipini belirlemektir. Bu çalışmada, parçaları birbirine bağlamak için dört farklı bağlantı tipi oluşturulmuştur. Bu bağlantı tiplerinin mukavemetini değerlendirmek için standart çekme numunesi tasarımı yapılmış ve bu tasarım ortadan ikiye ayrılarak üretilmiştir. İki parça olarak üretilen çekme numunesi japon yapıştırıcısı (siyanoakrilat), pim, kaynak ve hem kaynak hem de yapıştırıcı (siyanoakrilat) ile birbirine bağlanmıştır. Çekme numunesinin parçalanmamış tek parçalı hali referans numune olarak üretilmiştir. Her grup için yedişer adet üretilen parçalar, üniversal çekme test cihazı ile çekme testine tabi tutulmuştur. Çekme testi sonunda, maksimum çekme kuvveti ve yer değiştirme değerleri elde edilmiş ve bu değerlere göre gerilme, gerinim ve elastik modülleri hesaplanmıştır. Sonuç olarak, 3B kalem kullanılarak yapılan kaynakta en yüksek gerilme ve elastik modül değerleri hesaplanmıştır. Pim ile birbirine bağlanan parçaların en düşük mukavemete sahip olduğu belirlenmiştir. Referans model ile karşılaştırıldığında, tüm bağlantı tipleri parça mukavemetinde minimum %37 azalmaya yol açmıştır. Elde edilen sonuçlara göre, mukavemeti en iyi sağlayan bağlantı tipi 3B yazıcı kalemi kullanılarak yapılan kaynak bağlantı tipidir.
Vázquez-Cano, E. (2021). Diseño de Unidades Didácticas en Primaria, Secundaria y Bachillerato. Octaedro Editorial
Authors: Flores Bravo Ivonnia Marcela
Published: April 2022

El manual de Esteban Vázquez-Cano (2021) fue escrito tomando en cuenta las lecciones aprendidas durante la pandemia y presenta un abordaje novedoso para pensar la integración de la enseñanza virtual y la presencial. Este abordaje se apoya en la noción de unidad didáctica y está ilustrado a lo largo del manual con numerosos ejemplos de metodologías y técnicas de evaluación. Las unidades didácticas son definidas como la adaptación de los objetivos del programa didáctico a las características concretas de un grupo, sistematizando y ordenando el proceso de aprendizaje en el aula. Las características de la unidad están relacionadas a la progresividad, adaptabilidad, y a la practicidad de los planteamientos. Es decir que, se debe dar respuesta a las distintas situaciones, estilos de aprendizaje, y niveles de desarrollo curricular y emocional del grupo de alumnos particular con el que se encuentra el docente.
The Legal Aid Market
Authors: Wilding Jo
Published: April 2022

Presenting a rare picture of the barristers, solicitors and caseworkers practising immigration law in charities and private firms, this book offers fresh thinking on what has gone wrong in the legal aid market. In doing so, this book examines supply and demand, challenges existing legal aid policy and proposes insights for steps forward.
Enhancing First Year Students’ Speaking Skills through English Club
Authors:   Lecturer from Thai Nguyen University of Education, Thai Nguyen, Vietnam, Phuong Do Thi Ngoc
Published: April 2022

The study aimed at investigating the potential role of English club as a mean to improve students’ English speaking skills. The study focused on figuring out whether the application of English club could help enhancing students’ speaking skills or not, and identifying students’ attitude towards the activities of English club. The participants of the study were 90 first year students and 3 teachers of English at College of Education, Thai Nguyen University. The data collection instruments including questionnaire and class observation were employed. The analysis of the data collected revealed that the students had good scores in their speaking skills by joining in the activities of English club. The results from the questionnaires and observation were also reflected positive attitude of students towards the activities. On this basis, implications for teachers’ preparation, classroom practices and future research were proposed.
Usability Level Evaluation of Village Innovation Applications Using System Usability Scale
Authors: Wardhana Ariq Cahya , Kartiko Condro , Saputra Wahyu Andi
Published: April 2022

Usability is one of the important factors in an application. VillageÂ  Innovation Application is aÂ  Knowledge Management SystemÂ  (KMS)Â  that provides services to help village managers share innovation management knowledge with other villages.Â Â  To that end, the study proposes evaluating the level of useability of applications using the System Usability Scale to see the feasibility of the applications provided for use. The usability scale system has ten statements as an evaluation instrument and three assessment indicators, namely acceptability, grade scale, and adjective rating. Each statement becomes an indicator to see the level of usefulness of the application.Â  Evaluation of usability Application Innovation village using the System Usability Scale method can be drawn to the conclusion that the village Innovation application is categorized as meeting usability standards evidenced by the value of usability to aspects of acceptability, grade scale, and adjective rating with a final value of 68.3 meaning that the application can already be used directly by village devices