bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of water inflow into a tunnel based on three-district zoning of faults
Authors: Wu J , Wu L , Zhao C L
Published: November 2020

Water inflow into a tunnel subject to fault zones and fault effective zones is interpreted in this study using a three-district zoning method. An improved Brinkman model is proposed to investigate the seepage law of the geological defects of a fault. A coupled calculation model of typical Darcy seepage and Brinkman rapid seepage is constructed to establish a mathematical model of nonlinear seepage flow based on three-district zoning and the corresponding numerical implementation. In addition, the influence of the angle between the fault dip and tunneling directions on the water inrush in a tunnel is also studied. The variation characteristics of the pore pressure and velocity fields under various construction stages are analyzed, as is the seepage velocity of pore water at the tunnel heading. Moreover, the effects of the fault dip direction on the seepage field and water inflow are discussed. The following results were obtained. (1) Before excavation to the fault effective zone, the pore pressure at the same depth remained essentially unchanged in front of the tunnel heading. After excavation to the fault effective zone, the pore pressure at the same depth increases linearly with distance in front of the tunnel heading. (2) The seepage velocity changed gently before excavation to the fault effective zone but showed wavy fluctuating after excavation to the fault effective zone. The velocity reached its maximum value in the fault zone before decreasing rapidly and remaining close to zero in the general surrounding rock zones. (3) As the excavation length increased, the water inflow increased gradually, reaching its maximum value in the fault zone. (4) In the fault zone, the seepage velocity decreased with an increase in the fault dip. The water inflow reached maximum and minimum values at angles of 90° and 150°, respectively.
Estimation of REV for Danba schist based on 3D synthetic rock mass technique
Authors: Zhen CUI , Ping-zhi CHEN , Qian SHENG
Published: November 2020

This paper aims to provide a case study of determining the structure and mechanical Representative Elementary Volume (REV) simultaneously for a specific jointed rock mass. The schist of Danba HPP project is taken as the study case here. A Synthetic Rock Mass model (SRM) is firstly constructed based on sophisticated geological loggings. With which the number of joint centers per unit volume (P30), the area of joint per unit volume (P32), and the Young’s modulus (E) are examined for various sample sizes. It is found that the SRM is a powerful tool to address those problems. The P30 reduces gradually with the increase of rock mass scale. As for P32 and E, maximum and minimum value and the variance decrease rapidly with the increase of rock mass size. A comprehensive REV size of 50~60m is then estimated based on the above 3 indexes. According to the SRM simulation, young’s modulus of the REV scale is around 6.8GPa, which is a little bit higher than the recommended value by geologists. This difference is believed to be reasonable as the recommended value usually been significantly undervalued. The procedures and findings of this paper may provide a certain reference for further studies on rock mass scale effects.
Shear strength parameter determination for the single plane of weakness criterion: Implications for wellbore stability
Authors: Ma Tianshou , Qiu Yi , Liu Diancheng , Liu Yang , Zhu Gongsheng , Peng Nian
Published: November 2020

Wellbore stability is a classic rock mechanics problem encountered during drilling and completion, which costs the drilling industry more than $100 million per year worldwide. The failure criterion is a very important aspect of the wellbore stability analysis. Accordingly, for shale rich in bedding, fissures, joints, and cuts, we often use the single plane of weakness criterion to describe the compressive shear strength. The anisotropic strength of a rock depends on the strength of the rock matrix and the weak plane (i.e., cohesive strength of the matrix, friction angle in the matrix, cohesion of the weak plane, and friction angle in the weak plane). However, directly and accurately determining the compressive shear strength parameters of the rock matrix and the weak plane using the conventional least square and molar stress circle methods is difficult because of the difference between the rock matrix and the weak plane. This study uses the grid search algorithm to quickly match the optimal matrix cohesion, matrix internal friction angle, weak plane cohesion, and weak plane internal friction angle through the published triaxial test data of two sets of anisotropic rocks. The four parameters of the compressive shear strength materials obtained by the grid search algorithm are used to predict the results, which are very consistent with the experimental results. The correlation coefficient (R
2) above 0.98 is enough to meet the engineering requirements. Taking a shale gas well in the Sichuan Basin as an example, a collapse pressure prediction model is finally established by combining the grid search method to determine the material parameters of the compressive shear strength, shear wellbore instability model, and SWP criterion. Consequently, the model results are found to be in good match with the engineering practice.
Optimization and Establishment of Drillability in Gravel Formation
Authors: Pei Yang , Yan Zhang , Hongbo Wang
Published: November 2020

Rock drillability is a comprehensive index used to evaluate the difficulty of drilling and is a basic factor to determine drilling efficiency. Proper evaluation of rock drillability is vital to achieving high-quality and efficient drilling. Currently, the method for determining the drillability of rocks is primarily based on laboratory micro-bit experiments to measure the core’s resistance to drilling. This method requires a large number of cores and is expensive, takes a long time to start the test, and often lags behind drilling. Moreover, some people analyzed the relationship between the actual drilling parameters and the mechanics’ specific energy of drill bit and established a method to evaluate the rock drillability of rock. Field application proves that the drillability model is poorly correlated with the actual drilling conditions. The value of the actual drilling energy is usually 100–1000 times that of the theoretically calculated mechanics specific energy. Through laboratory experiments, we study the strength and failure characteristics of different gravel sizes and gravel contents with different impact speeds. The matching relationship between rock mass and impact speeds is analyzed. Based on the experimental results, a phase similar to a drill bit and a drilling tool is proposed to support drillability assessment. Under the condition of the same gravel size, with the increase of gravel content, the average cutting speed gradually decreases under the condition of certain cutting force, which is approximately exponential; with the increase of gravel particle size, under the condition of certain cutting force, the average cutting speed rapidly decreases, and the gravel particle size has a decisive impact on the average cutting speed. The above research results can be used to establish a new drillability evaluation model and to optimize the drill bits, drilling tools, and drilling parameters.
Relationship of rockburst and energy dissipation characteristics of brittle rock at great depth
Authors: Huang Shuling , Zhong Pengju , Ding Xiuli
Published: November 2020

Rockburst is defined as a major geological disaster of hard rock mass. At present, rockburst analysis mostly focuses on its mechanism, prediction, and preventive measures, and great progress has been made. However, a few comprehensive analyses on the rockburst mechanism still need to be investigated from different energy perspectives. From the energy perspective, this study analyzes the relationship between a rockburst and the destructive properties of T2b marble in the deep buried tunnel of the Jinping Secondary Hydropower Station. Our analysis includes strain energy accumulation and dissipation, shear fracture, energy release, and acoustic emission (AE). The obtained results show that in the energy release and dissipation processes, three dilatancy mechanisms trigger a rockburst, namely the tensile fracture extension control mechanism, closed fracture friction control mechanism, and their mutual transformation compound control mechanisms. Different mechanisms lead to different energy mutation patterns that determine the rockburst extent and scale. We also found that the strain energy of brittle rocks linearly increases with the increase of the confining pressure during the failure of the brittle rocks. The energy storage rate of the front peak at the lower confining pressure was significantly greater than that of the back peak. However, the difference gradually decreases as the confining pressure increases. The total shear fracture energy with the increase of the confining pressure first increases and then decreases. The peak before the shear fracture energy nonlinearly increases gradually, and the two fractures can be similar until the brittle–ductile transition. Lastly, the AE experiment shows that during the addition and unloading of brittle rocks at a great depth, three types of energy active periods and three types of energy decay periods are observed. The precursor to an instantaneous rockburst is the second type of energy fading period, while that to a delayed rockburst is the third type of energy fading period. The second type of energetically active period refers to the birth of a rockburst. The third type refers to the occurrence of a standard rockburst or a recurrence, such as a discontinuous rockburst.
Rheological deformation and failure laws of boreholes in granite under thermo-mechanical coupling and its application in deep hole drilling of hot dry rock for geothermal energy exploitation
Authors: Xi Baoping , He Shuixin , Wu Yangchun , Chen Zepeng , Cui Jiming
Published: November 2020

The key technology issue in deep hole drilling of hot dry rock (HDR) for geothermal energy exploitation is the stability of the surrounding rock. The temperature and in situ stress of the borehole play a significant role in its deformation and instability under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions. Based on the occurrence conditions of the granite reservoir of the Yangbajing geothermal field in Tibet, a research was conducted by means of experimental study, numerical simulation, and theoretical analysis, from which the following conclusions were drawn. (1) The deformation and failure laws of borehole are based on the physical experiment on granite specimen under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. (2) The Weibull distribution of the thermal expansion coefficient is used for establishing rock heterogeneity, and the COMSOL software is used to reproduce the temperature and stress distribution of the borehole during physical experiment, thus demonstrating the distribution of the temperature field, stress field, and displacement field under thermo-mechanical coupling (TMC) condition. (3) Based on the complete analysis of the temperature field and stress field, combined with the conclusions of the deformation and failure of granite specimen under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions, the failure laws of borehole under the TMC condition were analyzed, as well as the critical conditions of borehole instability during deep hole drilling of HDR. (4) With the critical conditions of borehole instability during deep hole drilling of HDR, which the relation between the in situ stress σ and temperature T is σ = 241.9–0.3998 T. These conclusions have practical guiding significance to the stability control of the surrounding rocks of borehole in relation to projects such as geothermal energy exploitation from HDR, deep oil and gas resource extraction, and deep hole drilling in mainland China.
Detection of water-rich fractured rock masses along proposed railway tunnel routes using three-dimensional aero-electromagnetic methods
Authors: Zhengxuan XU , Dong YUAN , Zhiheng LIN
Published: November 2020

Water inrush (gushing) is one of the primary hazards affecting the construction of underground engineering works, such as tunnels. The detection of water-rich fractured rock masses in the proposed routes of long trans-mountain tunnels is a significant engineering challenge. The traditional ground-based geophysical exploration methods are limited by rugged terrain. On the other hand, the aero-electromagnetic technique relies on differences in the resistivity of water-bearing and dry rocks to locate underground water. Using multi-dimensional geophysical data, this technique can improve the accuracy of exploration, locating masses of water-rich fractured rock along proposed routes of trans-mountain tunnels and guiding route selection. While promising, this technique is relatively young; thus, more research on their efficacy is required. In this study, aero-electromagnetic surveys of the Zheduoshan Tunnel of the Sichuan–Tibet Railway were conducted, and the feasibility and validity of the method were verified by directly collecting data from deep boreholes. The aero-electromagnetic technique is shown to have good application potential for improving the efficiency of geophysical exploration.
New Technology of Precise Geophysical Exploration for Geotechnical Engineering
Authors: shihang Zhong , Shucai Li , Rong Wang , Hongzhi Sun , Zefeng Wang , Xingzhi Ba
Published: November 2020

It make traditional geophysical exploration method to adapt new requirement such as resolution of meter-level, error of depth = 5% and marking border of target and geological interface that a lot of construction of geotechnical projects and preventing geological disaster projects. Due to hard research of scientific workers for twenty years, several methods and technology can meet the requirement and some methods would get breakthrough and some also get some progress. About 10 methods will be introduced in this paper such as Landsonar, Differential electric sounding(DES), C-1 and so on, meanwhile, development direction of some methods will be introduced such as geological radar.
Formation mechanisms of the ancient giant basalt landslide in Yanyuan County, China
Authors: He Kun , Hu Xiewen , Liu Bo
Published: November 2020

This study examined the Boli ancient landslide to improve the general understanding of the formation of ancient basalt landslides in the Emeishan large igneous province, China. The morphological, geomechanical, and structural features of the landslide were studied to reconstruct its characteristics. Field investigations, interpretations of remote sensing imagery, and topographical analyses were conducted to assess its formation mechanisms and to clarify the structural, geological, and geomorphological contexts in which the landslide developed. Inherited brittle tectonic features such as fault and joint sets determined the location, geometry, and development of rock slope failures. The Maijiaping thrust fault that cuts through the landslide area was found to be the major controlling factor in its evolution. The ductile tectonic features and sedimentary rock intercalations in the study area created the basal sliding surface for the landslide as it has weak mechanical properties and is hydrophilic unlike the surrounding basalt rock masses, resulting in a landslide-prone structure in the basalt slope.
Numerical investigation of coupled thermal-hydro-mechanical behavior of bentonite with joint in high-level radioactive waste disposal
Authors: Zhang Qi , Liu Yuemiao , Chen Liang , Cao Shengfei , Xie Jingli , Gao Yufeng
Published: November 2020

Deep underground geological disposal is regarded as the most appropriate disposal conception for high-level radioactive waste (HLW). Bentonite is employed as buffer material placed between the surrounding rock and waste canister, and it is made into circular blocks with high densities that are stacked in the repository. However, joints between bentonite blocks are filled with crushed bentonite of low density, which has a significant influence on its mechanical and hydraulic behavior. In this paper, a coupled thermal-hydro-mechanical (THM) model is proposed to study the performance of bentonite in the repository. Extended Barcelona Basic Model is adopted to study the mechanical deformation of bentonite, while the two-phase flow model is utilized to present the migration of water and gas in bentonite. Experimental results of Gaomiaozi (GMZ) bentonite are employed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed mathematical model. Numerical simulations are conducted to obtain the evolution of saturation and temperature of bentonite using COMSOL software. The research results indicate that it takes 7.98 × 109 s for water to flow from the outer to inner boundary. Compared with the saturated process of bentonite, significantly less time is taken to achieve heat balance. Water flows faster in the joint than in blocks, and the water flow velocity in joint increases with the permeability increment, which causes the saturation degree to decrease near point A and increase near point B.
Research on the deformation and failure pattern of rock masses in dam foundations controlled by continuous gently inclined and discontinuous steeply inclined unconformities
Authors: Tan Chun , Ma Dong-he , Liu Zhong-fu , Gao Yin , Xu Xin-chuan , Zhang Wen
Published: November 2020

The rock masses of the sluice gate of the Datengxia Hydropower Station in Guangxi Province are selected in this study to conduct stability analysis by using Universal Distinct Element Code (UDEC) software. The investigated rock masses are composed of continuous soft layers with low dip angles as well as discontinuous structural fractures with high dip angles. The strength reduction method is used to determine whether the failure pattern is shear or compression type according to the displacement of key points, force imbalance, and plastic yield zone. The results show that the failure pattern of rock masses with continuous gently inclined and discontinuous steeply inclined unconformities is compression failure rather than regular shear failure. The reliability and rationality of this method are verified by comparing the results with those obtained by using a physical experiment model. Therefore, the results of the method proposed in this study can serve as a reference for similar engineering projects.
Research on extended hypoplastic model and its verification for deposits soil
Authors: Tian Hai , Zeng Kaihua , Zhang Hong , Lu Shoushan
Published: November 2020

In order to illustrate the mechanical properties of the coarse-grained deposits soil, a series of large scale triaxial tests of deposits soil from the southwest region of China were carried out. Based on the test data and the basic idea of hypoplasticity, the Wu-Bauer hypoplastic model was extended to describe the mechanical behavior of the deposits soil, so that the constructed equations were induced for developed analysis. The model parameter identification method was proposed for the establishment of extended hypoplastic constitutive model by using improved differential evolution algorithm, which was targeted to find the optimization of the error function between test and theoretical results instructed by the inverse analysis principle. Then, an optimization calculation program was written to achieve the identification of the constitutive model parameters, which showed that the proposed identification method was better than the conventional method of parameter determination. Moreover, the test data and numerical calculation of one-dimensional compression test and triaxial test were compared, which indicated that the extended Wu-Bauer hypoplastic model could reflect the different mechanical properties of the deposits soil under different initial conditions.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Sensitivity of Surrounding Rock Parameters for Underground Powerhouse Experience Support
Authors: Deng Si-wen , Zhang Hong-shan , Pang Qi , Li Zhe , Li Fan-fan
Published: November 2020

At present, the design and construction of underground powerhouse support are still in the experimental stage. Moreover, before the construction of the underground cavern group, the mechanical parameters of the surrounding rock mass cannot be accurately obtained. During the implementation process, these reasons may cause adjustments to the construction and design plans. To comprehensively evaluate the sensitivity of surrounding rock parameters, we used the multi-indicators, which have certain guiding significance for the accurate acquisition of surrounding rock parameters and the adjustment of empirical support schemes. This study combines the initial geological conditions of the underground powerhouse caverns of the hydropower station and the support scheme. We selected the key position deformation of the lining and the cable stress as the evaluation indicators. The elastic modulus, Poisson’s ratio, friction angle, and cohesion are the influencing factors for the comprehensive evaluation of sensitivity. The results show that the elastic modulus is a highly sensitive parameter for the empirical support scheme, the friction angle is a middling sensitive parameter, and the Poisson’s ratio is a low-sensitivity parameter. Moreover, it is reported that sensitivity is related to the selection of indicators.
The Sustainability of Students’ Development on Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP)
Authors: Chiwpreecha Kesinee , Prateepchotporn Jiratchaya
Published: November 2020

The aims of this research are: to study the current and desirable states of the sustainability students’ development on sufficiency economy philosophy in school; to develop model of sustainability students ‘development on sufficiency economy philosophy for schools under the office of secondary educational area. Mixed - methods research approach is used consisted of four steps as follows: (1) study of 126 schools; (2) construction of a model; (3) verification of the model by 30 experts; (4) an evaluation of the model by a focus group of 15 experts, followed by final adjustments to the model. The research instruments are a questionnaire and an evaluation form. The data were analyzed by content analysis and descriptive statistics. The research results are as follows: The overall of current and desirable states of the sustainability students ‘development on sufficiency economy philosophy in school at high level and at the highest level respectively. Furthermore, the model is composed of four parts: The first part is the model of the sustainability students’ development. The second part is the principle and objective of model. The third part is an implementation process which consisted of four factors. They are management, curriculum development, teacher developments and students’ activities. The fourth part are conditions of implementing and success.
Study on the Ecological Thought in Guo Xuebo’s Novels
Authors: Liu Hu
Published: November 2020

Since the introduction of European and American eco-literary thoughts into China, more and more Chinese writers have turned their creative visions into the field of ecological culture combined with the current situation of human beings’ destruction of natural ecological environment in the era of industrialization in China. The series of ecological novels written by Guo Xuebo, an Inner Mongolia writer, is more concerned about the ecological crisis. The reconfirmation of animal life and the reflection on human nature have attracted more attention in the literary world.
An Investigation of Paper Mill Sustainable Development in Thailand-A Case Study of Double A Public Company Limited
Authors: Chen Gong
Published: November 2020

The main object of the study is to research Double A’s water treatment programs to give good suggestion to other factory that face the pollution problem and analyzed the development trend of waste-water treatment. To do an integrated analysis of the environmental problems caused by printing paper production is essential for improving the understanding of effective management of the environment in Thailand. Therefore, the overall objective of this paper is to analyze the environmental pressure of the printing paper industry in Thailand, and to identify options to reduce this pressure and evaluate their cost-effectiveness.
Computers in neutron science
Authors: Armstrong Jeff , Butler Keith T , Ryder Matthew R
Published: November 2020

Neutron scattering provides a sensitive probe for materials structure and dynamics and has had a profound impact on research ranging from quantum topological materials to archaeology to aerospace alloys. These experiments are incredibly data-rich and often challenging to interpret. Computational studies have been integral in the growing success of neutron science. From data collection and reduction to analysis and interpretation, computers are used at every stage of modern neutron experiments. State-of-the-art software allows for a deeper understanding of these powerful unique experiments. This themed issue, guest-edited by Dr. Jeff Armstrong, Dr. Keith T Butler, and Dr. Matthew R Ryder, brings together a collection of research highlighting the state-of-the-art in the application of computers in neutron science.
Enhanced nonlinear absorption and efficient power limiting action of Au/Ag@ graphite core-shell nanostructure synthesized by laser ablation
Authors: E Shiju , N K Siji Narendran , D Narayana Rao , K Chandrasekharan
Published: November 2020

Here we report a drastic enhancement of nonlinear absorption behaviour and exceptional optical limiting action of two core-shell systems (Au@graphite and Ag@graphite) prepared by adopting a fairly easy way in which we did not use any graphitic substrate. We carried out pulsed laser ablation of Au and Ag targets in toluene, monosubstituted benzene from which graphite layers of nanometer thickness has emerged as a result of photochemical reactions. The prepared samples were characterized and analyzed by UV/Vis spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and TEM. Theoretical simulations of the core-shell nanostructures were done by the finite-difference time-domain method underlined the quenching of SPR in the case of both Au and Ag NPs by the graphitic layers evolved from toluene. Au and/or Ag@graphite core-shell structure exhibited a huge improvement in the nonlinear absorption behaviour and the optical limiting efficiency of these systems is found to be better than that of many benchmark optical limiters. The enhancement in nonlinear absorption property and the limiting actions of these systems were attributed to the enhanced excited-state absorption as well as free-carrier absorption arose as a result of the modification in the electronic structure of graphite on core-shell formation. Moreover, the metallic NPs also enhances nonlinear absorption through free-carrier absorption free-carrier absorption. So we believe these results are quite useful for guiding the characterization, monitoring the synthesis of similar nanostructures and for, the development of nanohybrids with desired properties for nonlinear optical, optoelectronic and photocatalytic applications.
The orbitofrontal cortex: reward, emotion and depression
Authors: Rolls Edmund T , Cheng Wei , Feng Jianfeng
Published: November 2020

The orbitofrontal cortex in primates including humans is the key brain area in emotion, and in the representation of reward value and in non-reward, that is not obtaining an expected reward. Cortical processing before the orbitofrontal cortex is about the identity of stimuli, i.e. ‘what’ is present, and not about reward value. There is evidence that this holds for taste, visual, somatosensory and olfactory stimuli. The human medial orbitofrontal cortex represents many different types of reward, and the lateral orbitofrontal cortex represents non-reward and punishment. Not obtaining an expected reward can lead to sadness, and feeling depressed. The concept is advanced that an important brain region in depression is the orbitofrontal cortex, with depression related to over-responsiveness and over-connectedness of the non-reward-related lateral orbitofrontal cortex, and to under-responsiveness and under-connectivity of the reward-related medial orbitofrontal cortex. Evidence from large-scale voxel-level studies and supported by an activation study is described that provides support for this hypothesis. Increased functional connectivity of the lateral orbitofrontal cortex with brain areas that include the precuneus, posterior cingulate cortex and angular gyrus is found in patients with depression and is reduced towards the levels in controls when treated with medication. Decreased functional connectivity of the medial orbitofrontal cortex with medial temporal lobe areas involved in memory is found in patients with depression. Some treatments for depression may act by reducing activity or connectivity of the lateral orbitofrontal cortex. New treatments that increase the activity or connectivity of the medial orbitofrontal cortex may be useful for depression. These concepts, and that of increased activity in non-reward attractor networks, have potential for advancing our understanding and treatment of depression. The focus is on the orbitofrontal cortex in primates including humans, because of differences of operation of the orbitofrontal cortex, and indeed of reward systems, in rodents. Finally, the hypothesis is developed that the orbitofrontal cortex has a special role in emotion and decision-making in part because as a cortical area it can implement attractor networks useful in maintaining reward and emotional states online, and in decision-making.
Forever Connected: The Lifelong Biological Consequences of Fetomaternal and Maternofetal Microchimerism
Authors: Bianchi Diana W , Khosrotehrani Kiarash , Way Sing Sing , MacKenzie Tippi C , Bajema Ingeborg , O’Donoghue Keelin
Published: November 2020

Background

Originally studied as a mechanism to understand eclampsia-related deaths during pregnancy, fetal cells in maternal blood have more recently garnered attention as a noninvasive source of fetal material for prenatal testing. In the 21st century, however, intact fetal cells have been largely supplanted by circulating cell-free placental DNA for aneuploidy screening. Instead, interest has pivoted to the ways in which fetal cells influence maternal biology. In parallel, an increasing appreciation of the consequences of maternal cells in the developing fetus has occurred.

Content

In this review, we highlight the potential clinical applications and functional consequences of the bidirectional trafficking of intact cells between a pregnant woman and her fetus. Fetal cells play a potential role in the pathogenesis of maternal disease and tissue repair. Maternal cells play an essential role in educating the fetal immune system and as a factor in transplant acceptance. Naturally occurring maternal microchimerism is also being explored as a source of hematopoietic stem cells for transplant in fetal hematopoietic disorders.

Future investigations in humans need to include complete pregnancy histories to understand maternal health and transplant success or failure. Animal models are useful to understand the mechanisms underlying fetal wound healing and/or repair associated with maternal injury and inflammation. The lifelong consequences of the exchange of cells between a mother and her child are profound and have many applications in development, health, and disease. This intricate exchange of genetically foreign cells creates a permanent connection that contributes to the survival of both individuals.
The de Winter electrocardiogram pattern in a 52-year-old-male: a case report
Authors: Di Toro Matthew , Weissbacher Stephen , Wakeling Jarrod , Stub Dion
Published: November 2020

Background 

The 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) remains the primary test for diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (MI) secondary to acute coronary occlusion or near occlusion, with insufficient collateral circulation. Decisions regarding urgent reperfusion are based on whether or not there’s new ST-segment elevation. The de Winter ECG pattern is a distinct ECG pattern without any ST-segment elevation, it may be missed by anyone unfamiliar with it.

Case summary 

We present a case whose chief complaint was severe central chest pain, the patient was diagnosed with acute MI secondary to a culprit lesion in the left anterior descending artery, despite the ECG not meeting standard STEMI criteria. After the ECG’s significance was recognized by paramedics, the patient received immediate percutaneous coronary intervention with stenting and was discharged home after a brief hospital admission.

Discussion 

In some cases, acute MI presents with ECG features that do not meet the standard criteria for STEMI diagnosis. The de Winter ECG pattern is one such example. This pattern should be immediately recognizable to those responsible for the activation of the catheterization laboratory, physicians, and paramedics included.
Longitudinal management and outcomes of acute coronary syndrome in persons living with HIV infection
Authors: Parks Monica M , Secemsky Eric A , Yeh Robert W , Shen Changyu , Choi Eunhee , Kazi Dhruv S , Hsue Priscilla Y
Published: November 2020

Aims

Persons living with HIV (PLWH) have increased cardiovascular mortality, which may in part be due to differences in the management of acute coronary syndromes (ACS). The purpose of this study was to compare the in-hospital and post-discharge management and outcomes of ACS among persons with and without HIV.

Methods and results

This was a retrospective cohort study using data from Symphony Health, a data warehouse. All patients admitted between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2016 with ACS were identified by International Classification of Diseases billing codes. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to examine in-hospital, 30-day and 12-month event rates between groups. A total of 1 125 126 individuals were included, 6612 (0.59%) with HIV. Persons living with HIV were younger (57.4 ± 10.5 vs. 67.4 ± 12.9 years, P< 0.0001) and had more medical comorbidities. Acute coronary syndrome type did not differ significantly with HIV status. Persons living with HIV were less likely to undergo coronary angiography (35.2% vs. 37.2%, adjusted OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.83–0.92, P < 0.0001), and those with both HIV and STEMI underwent fewer drug-eluting stents (60.1% vs. 68.5%, adjusted OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.68–0.96, P = 0.016). Persons living with HIV had higher adjusted rates of inpatient mortality (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.15–1.44; P < 0.0001), 30-day readmission (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.09–1.27; P < 0.0001) and 12-month mortality (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.22–1.44; P < 0.0001). Twelve months following discharge, PLWH filled cardiac medications at lower rates.

Conclusion

In a contemporary cohort of persons hospitalized for ACS, PLWH received less guideline-supported interventional and medical therapies and had worse clinical outcomes. Strategies to optimize care are warranted in this unique population.
Comparison of predictive performance for toxicity by accumulative dose of DVH parameter addition and DIR addition for cervical cancer patients
Authors: Miyasaka Yuya , Kadoya Noriyuki , Umezawa Rei , Takayama Yoshiki , Ito Kengo , Yamamoto Takaya , Tanaka Shohei , Dobashi Suguru , Takeda Ken , Nemoto Kenji , Iwai Takeo , Jingu Keiichi
Published: November 2020

We compared predictive performance between dose volume histogram (DVH) parameter addition and deformable image registration (DIR) addition for gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity in cervical cancer patients. A total of 59 patients receiving brachytherapy and external beam radiotherapy were analyzed retrospectively. The accumulative dose was calculated by three methods: conventional DVH parameter addition, full DIR addition and partial DIR addition. ${D}_{2{cm}^3}$, ${D}_{1{cm}^3}$ and ${D}_{0.1{cm}^3}$ (minimum doses to the most exposed 2 cm3, 1cm3 and 0.1 cm3 of tissue, respectively) of the rectum and sigmoid were calculated by each method. V50, V60 and V70 Gy (volume irradiated over 50, 60 and 70 Gy, respectively) were calculated in full DIR addition. The DVH parameters were compared between toxicity (≥grade1) and non-toxicity groups. The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were compared to evaluate the predictive performance of each method. The differences between toxicity and non-toxicity groups in ${D}_{2{cm}^3}$ were 0.2, 5.7 and 3.1 Gy for the DVH parameter addition, full DIR addition and partial DIR addition, respectively. The AUCs of ${D}_{2{cm}^3}$ were 0.51, 0.67 and 0.57 for DVH parameter addition, full DIR addition and partial DIR addition, respectively. In full DIR addition, the difference in dose between toxicity and non-toxicity was the largest and AUC was the highest. AUCs of V50, V60 and V70 Gy were 0.51, 0.63 and 0.62, respectively, and V60 and V70 were high values close to the value of ${D}_{2{cm}^3}$ of the full DIR addition. Our results suggested that the full DIR addition may have the potential to predict toxicity more accurately than the conventional DVH parameter addition, and that it could be more effective to accumulate to all pelvic irradiation by DIR.
Experiences of crisis communication during radiation emergency and risk communication for recovery of the community in Fukushima
Authors: Takamura Noboru , Orita Makiko , Taira Yasuyuki , Matsunaga Hitomi , Yamashita Shunichi
Published: November 2020

Since 2011, Nagasaki University (Nagasaki, Japan) has been assisting the reconstruction efforts of Kawauchi Village (Fukushima Prefecture), which was the first village to decide to return to their home town after the evacuation due to the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station. In April 2013, Nagasaki University and the Kawauchi Government Office concluded an agreement concerning comprehensive cooperation toward the reconstruction of the village. Furthermore, we began comprehensive support for the residents of Tomioka who returned to their hometown in 2017, and of Ohkuma town in 2020. On the basis of the experiences in Kawauchi, Tomioka and Ohkuma, it is clear that the cooperation of residents, local authorities and specialists is essential for the recovery of areas affected by the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station. Accumulated experiences and practices should be carefully evaluated and recorded to prepare for unexpected nuclear disasters in the future.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection: Its Propensity for Bacterial Coinfection and Related Mortality in Elderly Adults
Authors: Godefroy Raphael , Giraud-gatineau Audrey , Jimeno Marie-Thérèse , Edouard Sophie , Meddeb Line , Zandotti Christine , Chaudet Hervé , Colson Philippe , Raoult Didier , Cassir Nadim
Published: November 2020

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is an increasingly recognized cause of acute respiratory infection (ARI) in adults. We compared the crude in-hospital mortality of patients with RSV infection alone with that of patients with RSV–bacterial coinfection. Overall, 12 144 hospitalized patients with ARI were screened for RSV detection by polymerase chain reaction between February 2014 and April 2019. In total, 701 (5.8%) had a positive RSV result, including 85 (12.1%) with bacterial coinfection. RSV–bacterial coinfection was associated with an increase in crude in-hospital mortality in patients >65 years old (hazard ratio, 2.94; 95% CI, 1.30–6.60; P = .010). Optimized prevention and management strategies to reduce this burden are needed.
Collective control, social cohesion and health and well-being: baseline survey results from the communities in control study in England
Authors: McGowan V J , Akhter N , Halliday E , Popay J , Kasim A , Bambra C
Published: November 2020

Background

Area-based initiatives (ABIs) are receiving renewed interest as a part of the ‘place-based public health’ approaches to reducing health inequalities.

Purpose

Examine associations between collective control, social cohesion and health amongst residents involved in the Big Local (BL) ABI.

Methods

Survey data on general health, mental well-being, perceptions of individual and collective control and social cohesion was obtained in 2016 for 1600 residents involved in the 150 BL ABI areas in England, and 862 responded—a response rate of >50%. Adjusted mean differences and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using random effect linear and generalized estimating equation models. Subgroup analysis by gender and educational level was conducted.

Results

Mental well-being was positively associated with collective control (mean difference: 3.06 units, 1.23–4.90) and some measures of social cohesion (‘people in the area are willing to help each other’ [mean difference: 1.77 units, 0.75–2.78]). General health was positively associated with other measures of social cohesion (area-belonging [OR: 4.25, 2.26–7.97]).

Conclusions

Collective control and some aspects of social cohesion were positively associated with better mental well-being and self-rated health amongst residents involved with BL. These positive associations were often greater amongst women and participants with a lower education. Increasing the collective control residents have in ABIs could improve the health effects of ABIs.
Introduction
Authors: Sundstrom Beth , Delay Cara
Published: November 2020

Birth control is a timely topic. As we finish this book in 2019, contraception and family planning dominate news headlines across the United States. Legal challenges to the 2010 Affordable Care Act’s contraceptive mandate continue; the Trump administration has revised decades-old Title X funding...
Introduction
Authors: Tarrant Shira
Published: November 2020

The Pornography Industry: What Everyone Needs to Know addresses key issues and concerns about a controversial and very hot topic. This book will appeal to a curious and intelligent audience who wants to know about the foundations and development of this popular and...
Porn Performers
Authors: Tarrant Shira
Published: November 2020

How Much Are Porn Performers Paid?

This is the question that people can mistakenly assume has a million-dollar answer. Adult entertainment is a global industry that employs up to 20,000 people in California’s San Fernando Valley alone. In general, most performances garner between $200...
Friends and Enemies
Authors: Byman Daniel
Published: November 2020

How Did the 2003 Iraq War Shape Al Qaeda?

In the years leading up to 9/11, Saddam Hussein and Al Qaeda shared a hatred of the United States, Saudi Arabia, and other common foes, but their visions—that of a secular tyrant with dreams of...
Uprisings in Weak States
Authors: Gelvin James L.
Published: November 2020

What did the political systems of Yemen and Libya have in common before the uprisings?

In both Yemen and Libya, corrupt, aging despots who stifled civic and economic life lorded it over states they treated as their personal fiefdoms. As a matter of fact,...
“Coup-Proofed”
Authors: Gelvin James L.
Published: November 2020

What do Bahrain and Syria have in common?

Like Tunisia and Egypt, Bahrain and Syria make an unlikely pair. Bahrain is an archipelago of thirty-two islands in the Persian Gulf. The largest—Bahrain—is roughly three and a half times the size of Washington, DC. It...
Pollution
Authors: Hill Pamela
Published: November 2020

What is pollution?

Pollution is the presence of anything in the environment that produces undesired effects. Substances that may be entirely innocuous in one location may cause pollution in another. Salt is a key component of ocean water, but when salt water finds its way...
Waste
Authors: Hill Pamela
Published: November 2020

What is waste?

Waste may be the most conceptually difficult term in the environmental lexicon. At one level it is unwanted material, usually the byproduct of industrial production, or sewage, or stuff that has been discarded because it is no longer useful. We use words...
Environmental Protection and the Economy
Authors: Hill Pamela
Published: November 2020

Are environmental protection and economic growth compatible?

Without doubt, economic growth has put an enormous strain on the environmental resources that power it. In fact, the environment would not need so much protecting but for the Industrial Revolution and what followed: dependence on fossil fuels,...
The Lula Government
Authors: Roett Riordan
Published: November 2020

The 2002 national campaign took place in the context of continued economic uncertainty. The Social Democrats nominated a close associate of Cardoso from São Paulo, José Serra. Unsurprisingly, Lula was the candidate of the opposition PT:

Lula campaigned in 2002 explicitly against the market-oriented, neoliberal...
Dilma Rousseff
Authors: Roett Riordan
Published: November 2020

Unlike many presidents in Latin America, Lula chose to follow the Constitution and not attempt to change it to allow for a third term. In spite of pressure from the PT, he remained firm and it soon became apparent that he had “chosen” the PT...
Public Policy Challenges for the 21St Century
Authors: Roett Riordan
Published: November 2020

What explains the agricultural revolution in Brazil over the last few decades?

The question is often asked, “Can Brazil become competitive globally?”1 While there are many obstacles to overcome to reach international competitiveness, there is universal recognition that the country is a global...
Measures of Inequality
Authors: Galbraith James K.
Published: November 2020

In this short chapter, we take up another fairly technical topic: How can inequality be measured? We will not attempt to give a full technical treatment of this question, but will introduce the reader to some of the most commonly used concepts and techniques,...
Causes of Changing Inequality in the United States
Authors: Galbraith James K.
Published: November 2020

A half-century ago, the study of economic inequality was moribund in the United States. Indeed, in 1958 John Kenneth Galbraith noted in The Affluent Society that “few things are more evident in modern social history than the decline of interest in inequality...
Policies Against Inequalities
Authors: Galbraith James K.
Published: November 2020

We shall now take it as a point of departure that actual economic inequalities in many countries, including the United States, are excessive and should be reduced. Not all readers will agree, and although this author holds a definite view, it has not been...
Quantum Physics
Authors: Raymer Michael G.
Published: November 2020

What is quantum physics?

Quantum physics is the study of matter and energy—the basic constituents of the physical world—in the ‘quantum realm.’ The quantum realm encompasses those aspects of Nature that cannot be explained using classical physics. By ‘classical physics’ we physicists mean the...
Application: Quantum Data Encryption
Authors: Raymer Michael G.
Published: November 2020

Can quantum physics be harnessed to create perfectly secure Internet communication?

Yes. In recent decades scientists have learned how to use the quantum nature of light to make messages and other data almost perfectly secure. Quantum physics allows us to encrypt messages in ways...
Quantum Behavior and its Description
Authors: Raymer Michael G.
Published: November 2020

How do quantum objects behave in the absence of measurement?

In the previous chapters we discussed the origins of three quantum principles: fundamental randomness, quantum states, and measurement complementarity. The main lesson we learned was that quantum measurement is considered something that either does...
Milestones and a Fork in the Road
Authors: Raymer Michael G.
Published: November 2020

What aspects of quantum physics have we seen so far, and what topics should we discuss next?

We find ourselves at a fork in the road on the way to understanding quantum physics. In a historical progression, it would make sense next to discuss...
Application: Quantum Computing
Authors: Raymer Michael G.
Published: November 2020

Is information physical?

Computers process information. Computer scientist and physicist Rolf Landauer was a proponent of the idea that information is an aspect of the physical world. He elaborated this as follows:

Information is not a disembodied abstract entity; it is always tied to...