bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Cycling Performance of Aqueous Processed Ni-Rich LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 Cathodes
Authors: Hofmann Michael , Nagler Felix , Guntow Uwe , Sextl Gerhard , Giffin Guinevere A.
Published: May 2021

A lithium phosphate surface coating can protect water-sensitive LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 (NCA) particles during aqueous electrode manufacturing. Herein, the coating process was performed by using a spray drying process, an easy method for upscaling. The coating provides enhanced protection against water that is reflected in a significantly reduced formation of detrimental water-induced surface species. As a consequence, full cells containing water-based electrodes with coated NCA and graphite anodes demonstrate good long-term 1C cycling performance with a capacity retention of 80% maintained after more than 730 cycles and a remaining capacity of approximately 130 mAh g−1.
Communication—Preparation of a Porous β-Cu3V2O8 Film for Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation
Authors: Tang Ding , Zhong Shuiping
Published: May 2021

The combination of narrow band gaps and notable stabilities against photoelectrochemical corrosion brings copper vanadates into the forefront of emerging photoanodes. Herein, we report a feasible approach to fabricate β-Cu3V2O8 thin film with a porous structure directly on indium-doped tin oxide (ITO) substrate for photoelectrochemical water oxidation. The porous β-Cu3V2O8 photoanode exhibits a photocurrent density of 220 μA cm−2 at 1.55 V vs RHE (reversible hydrogen electrode) in pH 9.2 borate buffer electrolyte under simulated solar irradiation. The present work could provide a base for further development of porous β-Cu3V2O8 as a solar fuels photoanode.
Electrochemical Separation of Uranium from Dysprosium in Molten Salt/Liquid Metal Extraction System
Authors: Smolenski Valeri , Novoselova Alena
Published: May 2021

The electrochemical behavior of Dy3+ and U3+ ions on inert Mo and active Ga (Ga-Al) electrodes were studied vs Cl−/Cl2 reference electrode in fused 3LiCl-2KCl eutectic at the temperature range of 723–823 K by transient electrochemical technique. The electrode reactions, associated with the electrodeposition of metallic dysprosium (uranium) and with the processes of alloy formation were investigated. The apparent standard potential of Me(III)/Me(Ga) and Me(III)/Me(Ga-Al) couples were calculated. The principal thermodynamic properties of dysprosium and uranium alloys were determined. The separation factor of dysprosium/uranium couple on liquid gallium and gallium-aluminum electrodes was calculated. The efficiency of separation of Dy from U was estimated.
Experimental Investigation of Thermoelectric Power Generator Using D-Mannitol Phase Change Material for Transient Heat Recovery
Authors: Jame Lourdu , Kumar Joselin Retna , Perumal Suresh , Jeyashree  , Moorthy Manojkumar
Published: May 2021

Thermoelectric technology, a solid state technology that converts heat energy into usable electricity, have gained a great attention in the field of renewable energy resources. This paper presents an importance of phase change material (PCM) of D-Mannitol attached in the hot side of commercially available Bi2Te3 based thermoelectric module on the recovery of transient heat so as to boost the conversion efficiency. The open circuit voltage and short circuit current of TEG attached in the D-Mannitol were recorded for heating and cooling in the temperature range of 323 K–450 K. During heating cycle, the thermal energy produced by external heater is stored in the PCM which is used as a heat source for power generation during cooling. Particularly, the maximum open circuit voltage drawn in presence of external heater is 1.23 V which moderately reduces to 0.4 V after 15 min. The maximum power drawn in the heater on and heater off are 20.8 mW and 0.48 mW respectively.
A Novel Nano-Pore Stainless Steel Film Modified by Cu@CuO/Cu2O Semiconductor Heterojunction for Photoelectrocatalytic Activity and Semiconductor Characteristics
Authors: Tan Yu , Wei Yike , Xu Yunfei , Liang Kexin , Jiao Yang , Zhang Shenghan
Published: May 2021

A novel nano-pore stainless steel film(NPSSF) with high surface area, good conductivity and low value is fabricated as the substrate by electrochemical method, and Cu/CuO/Cu2O heterojunction photocatalyst is successfully deposited on NPSSF. The Cu/CuO/Cu2O/ NPSSF shows marked photocatalytic activity in PEC of hydrogen production by water splitting and photocurrent response features under visible light irradiation. In addition, Pt nanoparticles modified on the heterojunction surface increases the carrier density, promotes electron/hole separation and demonstrates the lowest flat band potential for 0.38 V(SCE). The current density of the Cu/CuO/Cu2O heterojunction photocatalyst modified by Pt on the NPSSF is about two times that on ITO at the potential of −0.4 V(SCE). The narrowband gaps of Pt/Cu/CuO/Cu2O/NPSSF heterojunction are calculated and ensure its wide absorption band in the visible region. It is discussed that the photoelectrocatalytic mechanism of this newly developed photocatalyst by water splitting. The recovery photocatalyst of Pt/Cu/CuO/Cu2O/NPSSF could solve the expensive separation processes and recovery difficulties of powders and nanoparticles photocatalysts.
An Accelerated-Time Simulation of Queues at Ticket Offices at Railway Stations
Authors: Almech A. , Roanes-Lozano E.
Published: May 2021

Although nowadays many railway tickets are bought online, still many are bought through rail appointed travel agents and ticket offices at stations. There are several works on microscopic and accelerated-time simulations, some of them related to the topic of this paper, treating passengers movements in railway stations (both of general purpose and also with a focus on specific topics like evacuation, stations design, ticketing, etc.). We focus on a very specific topic: modelling queuing at ticket offices at a main Spanish station where “AVE” (“High-Speed”), “Larga Distancia” (“Long-Distance”), “Media Distancia” (“Middle-Distance”), and “Cercanías” (“Suburban Services”) dedicated windows exist. The existence of “Last Minute” desks is also considered. The goal is to provide the user with a tool that allows to choose the best option for windows distribution along time, after different microscopic simulations based on given data and windows possible distribution are performed (as done in a previous work of one of the authors for airport terminals check-in counters). Special attention is paid to “Last Minute” windows and shared windows (for example simultaneously selling tickets for “Larga Distancia” and “Media Distancia”). Input is given by arrival curves or can be generated by the package. The output is the detailed situation of any window at any moment and the evolution of queues by train or window type. There are different further possible extensions of this work. The implementation has been developed in a computer algebra system in order to minimize the development time.
Study on the Mixed Materials Proportion of Stratum Based on the Modelling Experiment
Authors: Zhou Yijun , Xu Tao
Published: May 2021

It is highly significant to select similar materials as well as the proportion of mixed materials in the model test. The mixed materials are used to simulate the stratum of the model test, including the iron ore powder, natural sands, gypsum, and lime. The stratum contains silty clay and silt soil. First of all, the symmetry coefficient of model mechanics parameters are calculated by the equation, and the symmetry ratio is 16 : 1. Second, calculate the proportion of compositions in mixed materials by the orthogonal test. The deviation method is used to analyze the mixed materials and how to influence the elastic modulus, cohesion, and friction angle. Finally, get the mixed materials which meet the symmetry theory and control factors.
Impact of Renal Pelvic Denervation on Systemic Hemodynamics and Neurohumoral Changes in a Porcine Model
Authors: Hering Dagmara , Hubbard Brad S. , Weber Michael A. , Heuser Richard R.
Published: May 2021

Introduction: The blood pressure (BP) response to arterial renal denervation (RDN) is variable. Methods: This study examined the effectiveness of renal pelvic denervation (RPD) on BP, heart rate (HR), norepinephrine (NE), and histopathology in 42 swine. NE levels were measured immediately, 7, 14, 30, and 90 days after RPD. Intra-arterial BP and HR were measured throughout RPD and after 14 days in 5 swine. Results: During the procedure, RPD immediately reduced systolic BP (−20.6 ± 18.3 mm Hg), diastolic BP (−6.0 ± 8.3 mm Hg), and HR (−5.4 ± 5.6 bpm), which remained decreased at follow-up. The porcine kidneys had a mean NE reduction of 76% directly post procedure and 60% after 7 days, 64% after 14 days, 57% after 30 days, and 65% after 90 days. Histopathological examination confirmed nerve ablation. Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest that the renal pelvis nerve ablation is an encouraging target for RDN. Clinical trials are required to test the feasibility of RPD in human hypertension.
Learning adaptation during the COVID-19 pandemic in Muhammadiyah inclusion schools
Authors: Lestari Sri , Hamsia Waode , Setiyawan Radius
Published: May 2021

The Muhammadiyah organization has inclusive schools that need to adapt during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study aimed to analyze the adaptation strategies carried out by two Muhammadiyah inclusion schools in Surabaya, Indonesia, Sekolah Peduli Anak Hebat (SPAH) and the Sekolah Kreatif Surabaya. This study used a qualitative descriptive approach with a phenomenology method to see the particular context of the two inclusion schools' learning situation during the COVID-19 pandemic. The data were collected using interviews and observations. Two coordinators for students with disabilities and five teachers were interviewed about policies and learning processes during the pandemic. The observation was done during the learning process. The secondary data was also collected by searching in their social media and e-learning platforms. The data analysis showed that the adaptation strategies were to coordinate and regularly collaborate between parent-teachers-students, build community cooperation, and make flexible and accessible learning policies. It proved that the two Muhammadiyah inclusion schools in Surabaya had adapted to online learning during the pandemic COVID-19. However, the two schools still need to improve quality, especially in creating an accessible asynchronous learning platform for students with disabilities.
The mediating role of responsibility and friendship between empathy skill and benevolence
Authors: Gökalp Ali , Inel Yusuf
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study is to investigate the mediating effect of friendship and responsibility between benevolence and empathy skill in the context of social studies courses. The data in the study, which involves a total of 646 8th grade school students from Turkey, was collected using the scales "Empathy Scale, Benevolence Scale, Friendship Scale, and Responsibility Scale" developed by the authors. It was seen that the research variables have significant positive correlations with each other. It was found that empathy predicts benevolence, friendship, and responsibility significantly and in a positive direction. Friendship and responsibility, on the other hand, were found to play a significant, fully mediating role in the relationship between empathy and benevolence. These results were discussed using the relevant literature and suggestions that were gathered.
A unique archetype of conservation in Himachal Pradesh, western Himalaya, India
Authors: Sharma Rupali , Sharma Monika , Mathela Manisha , Bargali Himanshu , Kumar Amit
Published: May 2021

Owing to numerous emerging threats to biodiversity, its conservation has been of paramount importance in today’s world.  Interestingly, many modern practices have been followed globally for the conservation of natural resources, yet traditional conservation practices that could set an excellent example need to be explored worldwide.  Keeping this in view, the current communication aims to highlight a unique conservation method that has been practiced in the remote and cold-arid region of the state of Himachal Pradesh in the western Himalaya.  Locally known as ‘Praja Mandal’, this indigenous system of conservation needs to be addressed and adopted nationwide  with an eye towards a sustainable ecosystem.
Record of Indian Roofed Turtle Pangshura tecta (Reptilia: Testudines: Geoemydidae) from Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Ashmita , Sapkota Ramesh Prasad , Paudel Kumar
Published: May 2021

This paper provides a detailed account of Indian Roofed Turtle Pangshura tecta (Gray, 1831) recorded alive from Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Nepal.
Additional distribution records of Zimiris doriae Simon, 1882 (Araneae: Gnaphosidae) from India
Authors: Prajapati Dhruv A.
Published: May 2021

Zimiris doriae Simon, 1882 is rediscovered from new localities in India.  Detailed illustrations of the general morphology and copulatory organs are provided.  The distribution records of all Zimiris species from India are mapped.
A novel prognostic model for angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma: A retrospective study of 55 cases
Authors: Sun Jie , He Sha , Cen Hong , Zhou Da , Li Zhe , Wang Ming-Yue , Ke Qing , Guo Bao-Ping , Liao Cheng-Cheng , Rong Chao , Zhong Da-Ni , Tan Xiao-Hong
Published: May 2021

Objective

To explore prognostic factors and develop an accurate prognostic prediction model for angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL).

Methods

Clinical data from Chinese patients with newly diagnosed AITL were retrospectively analysed. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were estimated using Kaplan-Meier method survival curves; prognostic factors were determined using a Cox proportional hazards model. The sensitivity and specificity of the predicted survival rates were compared using area under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results

The estimated 5-year OS and PFS of 55 eligible patients with AITL were 22% and 3%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that the presence of pneumonia, and serous cavity effusions at initial diagnosis were significant prognostic factors for OS. Based on AUC ROC values, our novel prognostic model was superior to IPI and PIT based models and suggested better diagnostic accuracy.

Conclusions

Our prognostic model based on pneumonia, and serous cavity effusions at initial diagnosis enabled a balanced classification of AITL patients into different risk groups.
An update on the mineral-like Sr-containing transition metal arsenates
Authors: Đorđević Tamara , Karanović Ljiljana
Published: May 2021

We report on the crystal structures of three novel synthetic SrM-arsenates (M = Ni and Fe3+), isostructural or structurally related to the minerals from tsumcorite, carminite and brackebuschite groups. They were synthesised under mild hydrothermal conditions and further characterised using single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SXRD), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and Raman spectroscopy. SXRD and SEM-EDS yielded formulae: (I) SrNi2(AsO4)2⋅2H2O, (II) Sr1.4Fe3+1.6(AsO4)2(OH)1.6 and (III) SrFe3+(AsO4)(AsO3OH). All three structures are built up of slightly distorted MO6 octahedra and AsO4 tetrahedra that are linked by Sr2+ with different coordination geometries and hydrogen bonds. I represent a basic structure type typical for tsumcorite-group minerals (space group C2/m) while II has a new intermediate structure between carminite, PbFe3+2(AsO4)2(OH)2 and arsenbrackebuschite, Pb2Fe3+(AsO4)2(OH) (s.g. Pm). III is triclinic and adopts a new structure-type (s.g. P$\bar{1}$). The structure of I is built up of infinite linear edge-sharing NiO4(OH2)2 octahedral chains, extending along [010] and linked by AsO4 tetrahedra, SrO8 polyhedra and hydrogen bonds. The structure of II is characterised by the carminite-like FeO4(OH)2 octahedral chains and Edshammar-polyhedral chains, which involves SrO11 coordination polyhedra similar to that of PbO11 in arsenbrackebuschite. Both chains in II are aligned parallel to the b axis of the monoclinic unit cell and connected together by the arsenate AsO4 tetrahedra, SrO8 polyhedra and the hydrogen-bonding network. The compound III has a new type of crystal structure based on the unusual corrugated octahedral–tetrahedral-quadruple chains. These are made up of a central double-sided chain linked to two single-sided chains into a quadruple chain extended along the a axis. The chains in III are built up of FeO6 octahedra and AsO4 tetrahedra further linked to each other by shared vertices. The quadruple chains are interconnected by additional AsO4 tetrahedra forming a heteropolyhedral 3D open framework. Strontium atoms are situated in the two channels. The structural connections to related minerals and inorganic compounds are discussed.
Domino effect of pituitary growth hormone tumor complicated by diabetic ketoacidosis and pituitary apoplexy: a case report
Authors: Pan JinYu , Yang XiangHong , Zhu Wei
Published: May 2021

Background

Patients with growth hormone (GH)-secreting adenoma usually develop glucose intolerance. GH increases metabolic rate and, when secreted aberrantly, may result in metabolic syndrome. Herein, we examine the associations of pituitary tumor-induced secretion of hormone with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, and determine the relation of pituitary tumor apoplexy-induced diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and acute pancreatitis.

Case presentation

A 44-year-old male with a history of hypertension presented to the emergency department of our hospital on February 14, 2019 with symptoms of headache, dizziness, and vomiting. Computed tomography of the head revealed pituitary tumor with bleeding. An ultrasound scan of the abdomen revealed fatty liver and acute pancreatitis. Further examination revealed the presence of DKA, hypertriglyceridemia, cortical hypofunction crisis and acute kidney injury. Surgical endoscopic resection of the pituitary tumor resection via the transsphenoidal approach was performed. The patient’s postoperative recovery was remarkable.

Conclusions

Long-term growth hormone abnormality may trigger insulin resistance, leading to metabolic syndrome and impaired glucose and lipid metabolism. The pituitary adenoma apoplexy may also directly induce DKA, creating a domino effect, which further deteriorate the aberrant metabolism of glucose and lipids.
Significance of intra-nodular vessel sign in differentiating benign and malignant pulmonary ground-glass nodules
Authors: Fu Bin-jie , Lv Fa-jin , Li Wang-jia , Lin Rui-yu , Zheng Yi-neng , Chu Zhi-gang
Published: May 2021

Background

The presence of pulmonary vessels inside ground-glass nodules (GGNs) of different nature is a very common occurrence. This study aimed to reveal the significance of pulmonary vessels displayed in GGNs in their diagnosis and differential diagnosis.

Results

A total of 149 malignant and 130 benign GGNs confirmed by postoperative pathological examination were retrospectively enrolled in this study. There were significant differences in size, shape, nodule-lung interface, pleural traction, lobulation, and spiculation (each p < 0.05) between benign and malignant GGNs. Compared with benign GGNs, intra-nodular vessels were more common in malignant GGNs (67.79% vs. 54.62%, p = 0.024), while the vascular categories were similar (p = 0.663). After adjusting the nodule size and the distance between the nodule center and adjacent pleura [radius–distance ratio, RDR], the occurrences of internal vessels between them were similar. The number of intra-nodular vessels was positively correlated with nodular diameter and RDR. Vascular changes were more common in malignant than benign GGNs (52.48% vs. 18.31%, p < 0.0001), which mainly manifested as distortion and/or dilation of pulmonary veins (61.19%). The occurrence rate, number, and changes of internal vessels had no significant differences among all the pre-invasive and invasive lesions (each p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The incidence of internal vessels in GGNs is mainly related to their size and the distance between nodule and pleura rather than the pathological nature. However, GGNs with dilated or distorted internal vessels, especially pulmonary veins, have a higher possibility of malignancy.
A 61-year-old woman with jejunal lymphatic malformation visualized on computed tomography: a case report
Authors: Rupasinghe Mark , Houshyar Roozbeh , Chahine Chantal , Bui Thanh-Lan , Glavis-Bloom Justin , Cheng Caleb , Tseng Jill
Published: May 2021

Background

Jejunal lymphatic malformations are congenital lesions that are seldom diagnosed in adults and rarely seen on imaging.

Case presentation

A 61-year-old Caucasian woman was initially diagnosed and treated for mucinous ovarian carcinoma. After an exploratory laparotomy with left salpingo-oophorectomy, a computed tomography scan of the abdomen and pelvis demonstrated suspicious fluid-containing lesions involving a segment of jejunum and adjacent mesentery. Resection of the lesion during subsequent debulking surgery revealed that the lesion seen on imaging was a jejunal lymphatic malformation and not a cancerous implant.

Conclusions

Abdominal lymphatic malformations are difficult to diagnose solely on imaging but should remain on the differential in adult cancer patients with persistent cystic abdominal lesions despite chemotherapy and must be differentiated from metastatic implants.
Comparing traditional, immersive simulation with Rapid Cycle Deliberate Practice in postgraduate year 2 anesthesiology residents
Authors: Blanchard Erin E. , Riesenberg Lee Ann , Bergman Lisa B. , Brown Michelle R. , O’Hagan Emma C. , Patel Shivani J. , Carter Tekuila R.
Published: May 2021

Background

Rapid Cycle Deliberate Practice (RCDP) is an increasingly popular simulation technique that allows learners to achieve mastery of skills through repetition, feedback, and increasing difficulty. This manuscript describes the implementation and assessment of RCDP in an anesthesia residency curriculum.

Methods

Researchers describe the comparison of RCDP with traditional instructional methods for anesthesiology residents' application of Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) and communication principles in a simulated environment. Residents (n = 21) were randomly assigned to either Traditional or RCDP education groups, with each resident attending 2 days of bootcamp. On their first day, the Traditional group received a lecture, then participated in a group, immersive simulation with reflective debriefing. The RCDP group received education through an RCDP simulation session. On their second bootcamp day, all participants individually engaged in an immersive simulation, then completed the “Satisfaction and Self-Confidence in Learning” survey. Application of ECC and communication principles during the simulation was scored by a blinded reviewer through video review. Participants ended the bootcamp by ranking the experiences they found most valuable.

Results

No significant differences were found in the different group members’ individual performances during the immersive simulation, nor in the experiences they deemed most valuable. However, the Traditional education group reported higher levels of satisfaction and self-confidence in learning in 5 areas (p = 0.004–0.04).

Conclusions

Regardless of RCDP or Traditional education grouping, anesthesia residents demonstrated no difference in ECC skill level or perceived value of interventions. However, members of the Traditional education group reported higher levels of satisfaction and self-confidence in numerous areas. Additional RCDP opportunities in the anesthesia residency program should be considered prior to excluding it as an educational method in our program.
Review of Radiation Technologies for the Treatment of Covid-19 Coronavirus Infection
Authors: Sarapultseva E , Garmash A , Gromushkina E , Gameeva E , Maksarova D
Published: May 2021

Due to the long-term lack of effective pharmacological concepts, the situation with the spread of a new coronavirus infection in 2019 (COVID-19) has aroused interest in considering the possible use of radiation technologies, including historical reports on the treatment of patients with pneumonia using low-dose radiation therapy. A brief review of articles on clinical trials of radiation technologies in the fight against COVID-19 is conducted. The authors of most of the analyzed articles, as well as the authors of this review, conclude that the available scientific data do not justify clinical trials of low-dose radiation therapy for the treatment of COVID-19 pneumonia due to the unclear benefits and risks of mortality from radiation-induced diseases, including radiogenic cancer and diseases of the circulatory system.
La enfermedad de Huntington: una difícil relación entre los enfermos y el derecho a la salud en Colombia
Authors: Varela Londoño Luz Estella , Giraldo Mora Clara Victoria , León Gañan Jaime , Arias Valencia María Mercedes
Published: May 2021

Introducción: el derecho a la salud está consagrado en la Constitución Política y en la Ley Estatutaria de Salud 1751 de 2015. Las personas con enfermedad de Huntington (EH) requieren atención especializada e interdisciplinaria por ser un complejo trastorno genético neuro degenerativo, que comienza en mitad de la vida adulta y no es curable. Materiales y métodos: estudio cualitativo, en diferentes regiones, la recolección se realizó a través de entrevistas en visita familiar, observación participante y revisión documental. Los resultados son fruto del análisis, realizado según postulados de la teoría fundamentada con origen en la sociología. Resultados: se encontró una difícil relación de las personas con el sistema de salud así: los que buscan atención, encuentran múltiples barreras que tratan de superar a través de la tutela, viven en ciudades principales o intermedias con alguna atención que los favorezca. Otros, en regiones distantes como Chocó y Juan de Acosta en el Atlántico emprenden pocas acciones en una suerte de “desesperanza aprendida” como propone Seligman: “no hacer nada porque nada va a funcionar”. Conclusión: ellos presentan la enfermedad en estado genuino, no reciben atención y sus condiciones son precarias hasta estados de desnutrición y abandono. La mayoría no tuvo acceso al trabajo formal, por tanto, no tendrán posibilidad de la pensión de invalidez o vejez, otros se debaten en el proceso de lograrla, y se encuentran en condiciones de pobreza y precariedad.
Systolic blood pressure and outcomes in frail older adults
Authors: Masoli Jane AH , Todd Oliver M , Clark Christopher E
Published: May 2021

Hypertension is diagnosed in the majority of older people with frailty, in whom blood pressure prognosis is not well understood. This editorial describes recent evidence on blood pressure and outcomes in older people with frailty.
Research Roundup
Authors: Heggs Karen
Published: May 2021

Synopses of a selection of recently published research articles of relevance to palliative care
Impact of Manganese, Nickel and Zinc Distribution from Lignite Fuels on Cultivated and Non- Cultivated Plants
Authors: Sawidis T. , Baycu G. , Metentzoglou E. , Mitrakas M. , Vasara E.
Published: May 2021

Manganese, nickel and zinc were determined in soils and 4 plants (2 cultivated: Brassica oleracea, Zea mays and 2 non cultivated: Rumex acetosa, Verbascum phlomoides) around the Coal Power Plant (CPP) - Agios Dimitrios, the largest CPP in Greece. In general, roots showed a higher metal content compared to the other over ground parts. This is more prominent in Brassica oleracea for all studied metals except zinc, where the highest zinc concentration is found in the sclerechyma (central vein) of the internal leaf. Thus, Brassica oleracea meets the objectives of phytoremediartion of lands contaminated by heavy metals. Periodically planting of Brassica oleracea could reduce the level of heavy metals in the area in order to clean up and prepare soils for other cultivations. The most contaminated leaves revealed a variation in epidermis roughness. In Verbascum phlomoides the multicellular, multilevel hairs on the leaf surface fixed a considerable number of air particles effectively. In contrast, the waxy cuticle of Rumex acetosa, enabled the fast rinsing of the air particles by rainwater and wind. The aim of the present study is also to highlight the differences in the ability of various plant organs or tissues to accumulate heavy metals, using cultivated (crops) and non-cultivated (native) plans found around the coal power plant. Pollution monitoring, especially by crops, may provide useful information for the design of monitoring networks that can facilitate the determination and intercomparison of metals around CPPs internationally.
Effect of Delamination on Natural Frequencies of E-glass and S-glass Epoxy Composite Plates
Authors: Karsh P. K. , Thakkar Bindi , Kumar R. R. , Kumar Abhijeet , Dey Sudip
Published: May 2021

The delamination is one of the major modes of failure occurring in the laminated composite due to insufficient bonding between the layers. In this paper, the natural frequencies of delaminated S-glass and E-glass epoxy cantilever composite plates are presented by employing the finite element method (FEM) approach. The rotary inertia and transverse shear deformation are considered in the present study. The effect of parameters such as the location of delamination along the length, across the thickness, the percentage of delamination, and ply-orientation angle on first three natural frequencies of the cantilever plates are presented for S-glass and E-glass epoxy composites. The standard eigenvalue problem is solved to obtain the natural frequencies and corresponding mode shapes. First three mode shape of S-Glass and E-Glass epoxy laminated composites are portrayed corresponding to different ply angle of lamina.
A Survey to Assess the Awareness and Acceptance of Dental Implants among Patients Seeking Prosthodontic Rehabilitation
Authors: Rao Akshata , Hegde Chethan
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND In this study, we wanted to assess the awareness, knowledge, and acceptance of dental implants as a treatment modality among patients visiting A.B Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, Mangalore, Karnataka. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 100 patients visiting A.B. Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, Mangalore, using a self-explanatory questionnaire. RESULTS The results of this survey indicate that 51 % of the patients were not aware of implant therapy as a treatment option for replacing missing teeth and 44.9 % were aware about it. 38 % of the patients received information about implants from dentist and 38 % of them received from books / magazine / internet. 44.3 % of the patients were willing to undergo implant therapy as a treatment option if needed but 25.8 % of the patients were not willing. 29.9 % of them were open to the idea of implants but were not sure. 58.8 % of the patients rated implant treatment as not affordable and 41.2 % rated it as affordable. The most common reason listed for not opting implant treatment was found to be the cost of the treatment (45.1 %), 27.5 % of the patients were not clear about the procedure and 11.8 % of them stated long treatment time as the disadvantage of implant therapy. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed a low level of awareness (44.9 %) among the patients regarding dental implants although, 44.3 % showed a positive attitude towards implant therapy. The study also revealed the need for further studies involving the general population as majority of the patients in this study were from a low socio-economic background. KEY WORDS Implant Supported Prosthesis, Awareness, Acceptance, Prosthodontic Rehabilitation
Evaluation of Clinical Performance of Cast Metal vs. Glass Fiber Posts in the Restoration of Endodontically Treated Teeth
Authors: Bhatnagar Mohit , Tomer Leena , Saxena Pramiti , Singh Arti , Sharma Veenuka , Singh Satvik
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND Endodontically treated teeth are usually associated with insufficient coronal and radicular tooth structure and hence, are restored with both cast metal and fiber posts. However, there are limitations in both treatment options. Glass fiber posts have known to show better performance than cast metal posts due to similarity in elastic modulus with dentin. The purpose of this study was to compare and evaluate the performance of glass fiber and cast metal posts in endodontically treated teeth that required intraradicular retention. METHODS 40 endodontically treated teeth were selected in patients and divided into two groups, glass fiber, and cast metal respectively. The participants were randomly allocated to both groups by using their registration number with an allocation ratio of 1:1. Participants were recalled at 3 and 6 months after cementation (baseline) for follow up. Radiographs were taken and evaluation was done according to FDI criteria. The intergroup comparison for the difference of mean scores between the two independent groups was done using the unpaired / independent t test. RESULTS Of the 40 endodontically treated teeth, 20 were restored with fiber posts and 20 were restored with cast metal posts. In total, 8 incisors, 6 canines, 21 premolars, and 5 molar teeth were included. The 6-month clinical survival of fiber posts was 100 % while that of cast metal posts was 95 %. The results were found to be nonsignificant (P = 0.159, 0.231, 0.805 at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months respectively). CONCLUSIONS The overall performance of the glass fiber posts was better than that of cast metal posts within the 6 months’ study period. However, no statistically significant differences were seen. Hence, in short follow up periods, both showed similar results and performed equally well. KEY WORDS Glass Fiber Posts Cast Metal Post Post and Core Technique Endodontically Treated Teeth
Endodontic Microsurgical Instruments - A Review
Authors: M.S. Prathap , Pradeep Reshma
Published: May 2021

Indications for endodontic surgery include failed nonsurgical treatment or retreatment, anatomical problems or iatrogenic errors. Endodontic surgery was considered as the last option with instruments that were unsuitable, surgical sites with inadequate vision and increased incidence of post-operative complication. But today endodontic surgery has evolved into endodontic microsurgery with the advancement in illumination, magnification, instruments and materials. Higher magnification and micro-instruments have increased the clinical outcome of endodontic surgery. Traditional instruments used in endodontic surgery are too large for the small osteotomy sites of microsurgery. Few of the instruments used for microsurgery are the smaller version of the traditional instruments. Endodontic microsurgery represents a minimally invasive treatment option with predictable outcome with the use of micro-instruments. A high success rate of nearly 93.5 % is reported, thus, making microsurgery a predictable option for the management of periapical pathology where surgical root treatment is not possible. The advanced techniques developed to overcome the barriers seen in traditional endodontic surgery have allowed the clinicians to achieve higher success rates. Along with the micro-instruments, the introduction of biomimetic materials has also led to the favourable results after endodontic surgery. This article discusses the different microsurgical instruments available for microsurgical procedures. KEY WORDS Curette, Microblade, Microsurgery, Piezotomes, Retractor, Ultrasonic.
Can less be more? Instruction time and attainment in English secondary schools: Evidence from panel data
Authors: Connolly Vaughan
Published: May 2021

How to best utilize curriculum time has long been a question for England’s schools, which are free to vary time between subjects or to extend the school day/week. This question has now risen to national prominence as policymakers consider ways to help support students catch up lost learning after the COVID-19 pandemic. This article explores the relationship between instruction time on General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) attainment and value-added scores for 2,815 English secondary schools using panel data from the 2010–14 School Workforce Census. Robust estimates suggest that instruction time has a small effect on attainment in each of English, mathematics, science and humanities. Based on sub-group analysis, effects sizes are also estimated for students with varying prior achievement and for those in receipt of free school meals. These too appear small, suggesting, vis-à-vis instructional time, sometimes less might be more.
Republic of Kenya
Authors: Mugnier Clifford J.
Published: May 2021

The Grids & Datums column has completed an exploration of
every country on the Earth. For those who did not get to enjoy this
world tour the first time, PE&RS is reprinting prior articles from
the column. This month's article on the Republic of Kenya was
originally printed in 2003 but contains updates to their coordinate
system since then.
Data-Driven Research on Ecological Prototypes for Green Architecture: Enabling Urban Intensification and Restoration through Agricultural Hybrids
Authors: Sunguroglu Hensel Defne
Published: May 2021

Editorial Summary: In »Data-Driven Research on Ecological Prototypes for Green Architecture« Defne Sunguroğlu Hensel introduces a design research attempt to the field of environment design, landscape, architecture, and green technologies in the context of urbanization, questioning the interrelation of architectural buildings and ecological, agricultural, and natural free space. This research proposes their inclusive interplay, aiming to dissolve the notion of construction as a driving force of land degradation and instead emphasizing its potential to facilitate green infrastructures in the realm of the built environment. Green constructions are described as a reasonable interlocking of architectural basic structures and their agricultural or horticultural use. She analyzes historically proven examples, underlining their contemporary potentials for adaptation and transition. [Katharina Voigt]
Relacje online. Ekstrawersja i inteligencja emocjonalna w kontekście wybranych aspektów komunikacji internetowej
Authors: Bijak Klaudia , Kleka Paweł
Published: May 2021

Interpersonal communication is a dynamic, complex process, and is conditioned by many factors, among which one of the most important roles is played by the personality of interaction partners. The article presents results of research on the influence of extraversion and emotional intelligence on selected aspects of communication when the process is mediated by the Internet. The study involved young adults (N = 51) aged 21–27 (M = 24.27; SD = 1.65; Md = 24), mostly women (Nk = 26; K/M = 1.08), who responded to the invitation to the study published on Facebook. The survey was conducted in the period from December 2019 to February 2020, through Messenger and GoogleForms to collect the results in personality questionnaires. On the basis of the correlation coefficients obtained, it can be assumed that the level of extraversion (r = .397, p = .002; r = 414, p < .001 and the level of emotional intelligence (r = .331, p = .009; r = .411, p < .001) may be responsible for the expression of emotions and productivity of the speech in an intermediary conversation. Due to the results of the conducted research, we put forward a thesis that the mediation of contact with another person thanks to the currently developed systems of smileys, does not lead to impoverishment of the emotional layer of the message.
Miłość kończąca się na sali sądowej. Relacje małżeńskie w procesie rozwodowym
Authors: Ruszkiewicz Marta
Published: May 2021

This article analyses the components of love and the stages of a love relationship in relation to the increasingly common phenomenon of divorce in society. The author underlines that the reason of filing for divorce may be the further development of love and – more specifically – the decline of passion and intimacy, of which the spouses may not be aware. Qualitative changes in love surprise the spouses and cause dissatisfaction. The availability and popularity of divorces, in turn, induce the spouses to resort to such tools. According to the author, an increase in the social awareness in this matter could make it possible to avoid many divorce processes.
Ryzyko braku relacji zawodowych. Konstrukcja Skali Niepewności Zatrudnienia w Sytuacji Pandemii
Authors: Chirkowska-Smolak Teresa , Czumak Mikołaj
Published: May 2021

In a pandemic situation, anxiety about work has added to anxiety about the perceived threat to health or life. Job insecurity is a stressor that causes deterioration of mental and physical health, but also leads to behaviors that have negative consequences for the organization. The anxiety related to fears about the future of work may be increased due to limited contacts with co-workers (remote work, forced downtime) and social isolation, while social support is one of the most important stress buffer factors. In this article, we present the results of research on the construction of a scale for measuring job uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Smooth representations of unit groups of split basic algebras over non-Archimedean local fields
Authors: André Carlos A. M. , Dias João
Published: May 2021

We consider smooth representations of the unit group

G
=

A
×

G=\mathcal{A}^{\times}

of a finite-dimensional split basic algebra 𝒜 over a non-Archimedean local field.
In particular, we prove a version of Gutkin’s conjecture, namely, we prove that every irreducible smooth representation of 𝐺 is compactly induced by a one-dimensional representation of the unit group of some subalgebra of 𝒜.
We also discuss admissibility and unitarisability of smooth representations of 𝐺.
Theoretical framework about optimal model of operation after intentional attacks considering transmission system switching
Authors: Toctaquiza Juan , Carrión Diego
Published: May 2021

This research focuses on optimal post-intentional attack operation considering switching transmission systems. The applicable models for this process focus on the application of bi-level optimization methods that are capable of analyzing two possible scenarios in order to reduce the time of loss or departure from the demand of the electricity system. The main objective of this work is related to maintaining the minimum requirements that allow the operation of the Electric Power System, for this the approach of equations will be carried out that allows establishing the mathematical models in the event of intentional attacks, it must maintain the operation of the Electric System and react in the event of contingencies through the Optimal Switching of Transmission Lines.
Flame-retardancy and smoke suppression characteristics of bamboo impregnated with silicate-intercalated calcium aluminum hydrotalcates
Authors: Hua Yating , Du Chungui , Yu Huilong , Hu Ailian , Peng Rui , Zhang Jingjing , Li Qi , Ma Zhongqing
Published: May 2021

Flame-retardant silicate-intercalated calcium aluminum hydrotalcites (CaAl-SiO3-LDHs) were synthesized to treat bamboo for retardancy, to overcome the bamboo’s flammability and reduce the production of toxic smoke during combustion. The microstructure, elemental composition, flame retardancy, and smoke suppression characteristics of the bamboo before and after the fire-retardant treatment with different pressure impregnation were studied using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), elemental analysis (EDX), and cone calorimetry. It was found that CaAl-SiO3-LDHs flame retardants can effectively fill and cover the cell wall surface and the cell cavity of bamboo without damaging the microstructure. As compared to the non-flame-retardant bamboo, the heat release rate (HRR) of the CaAl-SiO3-LDHs flame-retardant bamboo was significantly reduced, the total heat release (THR) decreased by 31.3%, the residue mass increased by 51.4%, the time to ignition (TTI) delay rate reached 77.8%, the mass loss rate (MLR) decreased, and the carbon formation improved. Additionally, as compared to the non-flame-retardant bamboo, the total smoke release (TSR) of the CaAl-SiO3-LDHs flame-retardant bamboo decreased by 38.9%, and the carbon monoxide yield (YCO) approached zero. Thus, the CaAl-SiO3-LDHs flame-retardant bamboo has excellent flame-retardancy and smoke suppression characteristics.
Simultaneous saccharification and co-fermentation with a thermotolerant Saccharomyces cerevisiae to produce ethanol from sugarcane bagasse under high temperature conditions
Authors: Tu Wei-Lin , Ma Tien-Yang , Ou Chung-Mao , Guo Gia-Luen , Chao Yu
Published: May 2021

Lignocellulosic ethanol production at high temperature offers advantages such as the decrease of contamination risk and cooling cost. Recombinant xylose-fermenting Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been considered a promising strain for ethanol production from lignocellulose for its high inhibitor tolerance and superior capability to ferment glucose and xylose into ethanol. To improve the ethanolic fermentation by xylose at high temperature, the strain YY5A was subjected to the ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) mutagenesis. A mutant strain T5 was selected from the EMS-treated cultures to produce ethanol. However, the xylose uptake by T5 was severely inhibited by the high ethanol concentration during the co-fermentation in defined YPDX medium at 40 °C. In this study, the simultaneous saccharification and co-fermentation (SSCF) and the separate hydrolysis and co-fermentation (SHCF) processes of sugarcane bagasse were assessed to solve this problem. The xylose utilization by T5 was remarkably improved using the SSCF process compared to the SHCF process. For the SHCF and SSCF processes, 48% and 99% of the xylose in the hydrolysate was consumed at 40 °C, respectively. The ethanol yield was enhanced by the SSCF process. The ethanol production can reach to 36.0 g/L using this process under high-temperature conditions.
QUANTITATIVE INDEX OF TOC CONTENT OF DIFFERENT AGE THICKNESSES OF TRANSCARPATHIAN DEPRESSION AS OIL GAS GENERATION ESTIMATION CRITERIA
Authors: LOKTIEV Andrii
Published: May 2021

The Transcarpathian foredeep of Ukraine is a geological unit within the Carpathian folded structure, presented by Neogene molasses, which cover Pre-Neogene folded base. Five deposits of combustible gas were discovered within the foredeep – Russko-Komarivske, Stanivske and Korolevskoye within the Mukachevo depression and Solotvino and Dibrovske fields within the Solotvino depression. Despite the fact that most domestic researchers adhere to the view of gas migration along deep tectonic faults into the sedimentary cover of the Transcarpathian foredeep, it is important to analyze the basin for favourable conditions for the generation of natural gases within the sedimentary cover. Samples of core material, selected from 57 intervals of different age complexes of rocks from Transcarpathian wells for quantitative estimation of total organic carbon in rock, were analyzed in the department of sedimentary strata of IGGCM NASU. The results of the studies indicate the presence of rocks with low as well as good and even very good oil and gas potential for total organic carbon content, which are overwhelmingly related to the deposits of Pre-Neogene folded base. In general, a wide range of TOC content is established by the analysis. Rocks with TOC content of more than 1% are found both in rocks of the Pre-Neogene base (w. № 22-, 23-Solotvino, 1-Bushtinska, 1-Borodivsko-Novosilska), and in the molar thickness of the Neogene (St. No. 1-Velyko-Dobronska, 8-Tyachivska), which indicates sufficient content to generate hydrocarbons. Further research aimed at determining the oil and gas potential will allow to determine the priority directions of oil and gas exploration within the Transcarpathian foredeep.