bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calculation of normalized source strength using second derivatives of the vertical integral of total-field magnetic anomaly
Authors: Hu Ming , Yu Peng , Zhang Luolei , Zhao Chongjin
Published: March 2022

Normalized source strength (NSS) is often used to interpret remanence data owing to its low sensitivity to the direction of magnetization. However, calculations of NSS are unstable at low latitudes. Therefore, we have developed a new parameter called modified NSS (MNSS), in which NSS is calculated using the second derivatives of the vertical integration of a total-field magnetic anomaly, rather than using magnetic field components. This approach helps to stabilize the NSS calculation. MNSS is slightly dependent on the magnetization direction, but the calculation of the latter does not require geomagnetic field direction information, meaning that MNSS calculations are convenient and very stable even at very low latitudes or over the equator. Here, we develop test models and a field-based case study to illustrate the features and advantages of MNSS.
Optimized arrays for electrical resistivity tomography survey using Bayesian experimental design
Authors: Qiang Siyuan , Shi Xiaoqing , Kang Xueyuan , Revil André
Published: March 2022

Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) is broadly used to characterize and monitor subsurface processes because of its simplicity in data acquisition and modeling. The resolution of ERT is controlled by the position of the electrodes and the measurement protocol. As a result, there has been increasing interest in optimizing ERT surveys for higher resolution. The most widely used “Compare-R” method optimizes the ERT survey by calculating the updates of possible measurement configurations to the resolution matrix. The computational burden of the Compare-R method becomes overwhelming due to the computational cost of the estimated resolution matrix with an increasing number of electrodes. We have developed a new ERT survey design methodology for a target of interest based on Bayesian experimental design. The computational challenge is alleviated through two main strategies. First, in our method, the resolution matrix is not necessary and the optimized measurements are determined using higher relative entropy, which represents the maximization of the expected information gain. Second, the simulated measurements of four-electrode configurations to calculate relative entropy are reconstructed from two-electrode configurations using the principle of superposition. Static and time-lapse ERT synthetic surveys are used to test the performance of our method. The robustness of the optimized measurement configuration is evaluated by adding different levels of noise. Results find that the Bayesian experimental design can acquire optimized measurement configurations with similar resolution compared to the Compare-R method. However, the Bayesian optimized measurement configurations are more robust to noise and the computational cost is reduced by up to 38% and 89% for 2D and 3D cases, respectively. This method has great potential in optimized ERT survey design, especially for high-resolution three dimensions or crosswell ERT surveys.
Multiattribute analysis of channel architectural elements within the deepwater Taranaki Basin, 3D Romney data
Authors: Stroud Brittany , Barber Grace , Bedle Heather
Published: March 2022

The Taranaki Basin is located offshore west of North Island, New Zealand. Within the study area, deepwater channel systems are present as a result of plate boundary movement and clastic deposition during the Plio-Pleistocene. Multiattribute analysis revealed a few interesting features that we identified and interpreted. After refining the horizon of focus, we have concluded some interpretations as noise, whereas others were confirmed as geologic deposits. In one funny-looking thing (FLT 1), we interpreted high energy and high sweetness response along the northwestern portion of the main channel body as a sand-rich levee deposit and, in a second funny-looking thing (FLT 2), scalloping and elongate “finger-like” geometries as noise. The visualization and interpretation of these features through seismic attributes allow for optimized exploration, and therefore an opportunity for hydrocarbon extraction, within the Taranaki Basin.

Geologic feature: Deep marine channel system: sandy channel fill to the northwest (FLT 1); interesting features in the center of the time slice (FLT 2) Seismic appearance: Chaotic, discontinuous reflectors with a high-energy response (FLT 1); chaotic high-variance features (FLT 2) Alternative interpretations: Overlapping sand-dominated channel (FLT 1); crevasse splays, fan lobes, distributary channels, ravines, and incisions (FLT 2) Age: Plio-Pleistocene Location: Taranaki Basin, western offshore North Island, New Zealand Seismic data: Provided by Anadarko Taranaki Company Analysis tool: A 3D reflection seismic, geometric, and physical seismic attributes
P-wave reflectivity parameterization and nonlinear inversion in terms of Young’s modulus and Poisson ratio
Authors: Chen Xiao , Zong Zhaoyun , Qu Xiaoyang
Published: March 2022

Young’s modulus and Poisson ratio are essential parameters for rock brittleness evaluation. At present, prestack inversions of these parameters mostly adopt linear approximation, whereas the nonlinear inversion methods that are based on the exact Zoeppritz equation are seldomly conducted. Nevertheless, in the case of large incident angles and high-impedance contrast, the nonlinear equation has higher accuracy than the linear approximation. It is more in line with the nature of geophysical inversion problems, and it describes the variation of formations’ elastic parameters better than the linear approximation does. Therefore, based on the exact solution of the Zoeppritz equation, we have parameterized and derived a new nonlinear reflection coefficient equation using nonlinear Young’s modulus, Poisson ratio, and density (YPD) as variables. Subsequently, by combining the inverse operator algorithm with the YPD equation, we develop a new nonlinear amplitude-variation-with-offset inversion scheme. This approach can robustly extract Young’s modulus and Poisson ratio from seismic data and identify shale-gas sweet spot locations within the reservoir, as well as predict reservoir fluid properties. We have tested the accuracy and applicability of this approach with synthetic and real data examples.
A GWAS in Idiopathic/Unexplained Infertile Men Detects a Genomic Region Determining Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Levels
Authors: Schubert Maria , Pérez Lanuza Lina , Wöste Marius , Dugas Martin , Carmona F David , Palomino-Morales Rogelio J , Rassam Yousif , Heilmann-Heimbach Stefanie , Tüttelmann Frank , Kliesch Sabine , Gromoll Jörg
Published: March 2022

Context

Approximately 70% of infertile men are diagnosed with idiopathic (abnormal semen parameters) or unexplained (normozoospermia) infertility, with the common feature of lacking etiologic factors. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is essential for initiation and maintenance of spermatogenesis. Certain single-nucleotide variations (SNVs; formerly single-nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs]) (ie, FSHB c.–211G > T, FSHR c.2039A > G) are associated with FSH, testicular volume, and spermatogenesis. It is unknown to what extent other variants are associated with FSH levels and therewith resemble causative factors for infertility.

Objective

We aimed to identify further genetic determinants modulating FSH levels in a cohort of men presenting with idiopathic or unexplained infertility.

Methods

We retrospectively (2010-2018) selected 1900 men with idiopathic/unexplained infertility. In the discovery study (n = 760), a genome-wide association study (GWAS) was performed (Infinium PsychArrays) in association with FSH values (Illumina GenomeStudio, v2.0). Minor allele frequencies (MAFs) were analyzed for the discovery and an independent normozoospermic cohort. In the validation study (n = 1140), TaqMan SNV polymerase chain reaction was conducted for rs11031005 and rs10835638 in association with andrological parameters.

Results

Imputation revealed 9 SNVs in high linkage disequilibrium, with genome-wide significance (P < 4.28e-07) at the FSHB locus 11p.14.1 being associated with FSH. The 9 SNVs accounted for up to a 4.65% variance in FSH level. In the oligozoospermic subgroup, this was increased up to 6.95% and the MAF was enhanced compared to an independent cohort of normozoospermic men. By validation, a significant association for rs11031005/rs10835638 with FSH (P = 4.71e-06/5.55e-07) and FSH/luteinizing hormone ratio (P = 2.08e-12/6.4e-12) was evident.

Conclusions

This GWAS delineates the polymorphic FSHB genomic region as the main determinant of FSH levels in men with unexplained or idiopathic infertility. Given the essential role of FSH, molecular detection of one of the identified SNVs that causes lowered FSH and therewith decreases spermatogenesis could resolve the idiopathic/unexplained origin by this etiologic factor.
Baseline and Peak Cortisol Response to the Low-Dose Short Synacthen Test Relates to Indication for Testing, Age, and Sex
Authors: Park Julie , Titman Andrew , Lancaster Gillian , Selvarajah Bhavana , Collingwood Catherine , Powell Darren , Das Urmi , Dharmaraj Poonam , Didi Mohammed , Senniappan Senthil , Blair Joanne
Published: March 2022

Context

Meta-analyses report that the low dose short Synacthen test (LDSST) is more sensitive but less specific than the standard dose test for the diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency, and there are concerns regarding the accuracy of dosing in the LDSST.

Objective

Perform a retrospective, observational study to review the outcomes of LDSSTs performed in a tertiary endocrine service from 2008 to 2014 (N = 335) and 2016 to 2020 (N = 160), and examine for relationships between cortisol measurements and indication for testing, age and sex.

Methods

LDSST were performed by endocrine nurses. Synacthen 500 ng/1.73m2 administered as IV bolus, sampling at 0, 15, 25, and 35 minutes.

Results

Mean (± 1SD) baseline cortisol was 221 ± 120 nmol/L, peak 510 ± 166 nmol/L and increment 210 ± 116 nmol/L. 336 (70%) patients had a normal response (baseline cortisol >100 nmol/L, peak >450 nmol/L), 78 (16%) a suboptimal response (peak cortisol 350-450 nmol/L) and were prescribed hydrocortisone to during periods of stress only, 67 (14%) an abnormal response (baseline <100nmol/L or peak <350nmol/L) and were prescribed daily hydrocortisone. Basal, peak, and incremental increases in cortisol were higher in females (P = .03, P < .001, P = .03, respectively). Abnormal results occurred most frequently in patients treated previously with pharmacological doses of glucocorticoids or structural brain abnormalities (P < .001).

Conclusion

The low prevalence and strong association of abnormal results with indication for testing, suggests that over diagnosis occurred infrequently in this clinical setting.
Comparison of the efficacy of Kinesiology Taping versus Therapeutic Ultrasound in the management of Plantar Fasciitis
Authors: Karishma . , Muhammad Amir , Ameer Shaikh Hajra , Raza Zaidi Syeda Wajeeha
Published: March 2022

Plantar fasciitis (PF) is one of the most common musculoskeletal complain of the foot affecting a huge population. However there is a scarcity of evidence regarding treatment efficacy, therefore this trial aimed to compare the efficacy of Kinesiotaping (KT) vs. Ultrasound Therapy (UT) in the management of pain and physical functioning of foot/ankle in patients with PF.
Methodology: Two arms, parallel-group design RCT was conducted on PF patients. Participants aged between 25-60 years, having symptoms of PF for at least 6 months, presenting with unilat-eral and/or bilateral heel pain were included. However, patients with fractures, dislocations, or open wounds around ankle/soles and patients allergic to taping were excluded. 30 patients were randomly divided into group A (KTG=15): received KT and group B (UTG=15): received Ultra-sound Therapy (UT). Both the groups also received cold pack with stretching exercises. Treat-ment was provided on an alternate days for 30 minutes to each group for two weeks. Visual An-alogue Scale (VAS) was used to determine pain and Foot/Ankle disability index (FADI) was used to assess foot and ankle functioning. Readings were taken pre and post intervention.
Results and discussion: The mean pain score before treatment was 8.00 but after treatment was reduced to 1.13, in KTG. However, in UTG mean pain score before treatment was 9.13 and after treatment reduced to 4.20. The mean FADI score before treatment was 52.80 but after treatment decreased to 11.46 in KTG. However, in UTG the mean score of FADI before treatment was 58.53 and after treatment, it was decreased to 39.46.
Conclusion: The results concluded that KT and UT both are effective techniques for reducing pa-in and improving ankle/foot physical functioning in patients with PF. However, KT was found to be more effective than UT.

Keywords: Foot/ankle disability index, Plantar Fasciitis, Pain, Kinesiotaping, Therapeutic ultrasound
Features of complex therapeutical rehabilitation management with favorable evolution in a patient with right hemiplegia, mixed aphasia and optic atrophy post surgical removal of be-nign intraventricular tumor (central neurocytoma)
Authors: Mocanu Elena-Madalina , Postoiu Ruxandra Luciana , Schek Simona , Chipăruș Carmen Elena , Lapadat Magdalena , Onose Gelu
Published: March 2022

Central neurocytoma (CN) is a benign brain tumor located intraventricularly and classified as grade II by the World Health Organization in 2000 (classification of tumours of the central nerv-ous system). CN is frequently found in young adults and may increase intracranial pressure causing obstructive hydrocephalus, manifested by neurological symptoms such as headaches and vision problems. CN has a relatively good prognosis, provided a complete surgical resec-tion is performed. Materials and Methods: In this presentation, we describe the case of a 21-year-old patient with a personal history of headache, vomiting and decreased visual acuity in both eyes, who was admitted to the Neurosurgery Clinic III of THEBA. Following clinical and para-clinical assesements, the patient was diagnosed with a left lateral ventricular tumor with exten-sion in the right lateral ventricle and the third ventricle. The neurosurgery team decided a total resection of the tumor would be the best approach in this case. The biopsy report revealed that it was a central neurocytoma. After the surgery the patient’s neurological status improved and she was admitted in the Neuromuscular Rehabilitation CinicalDivision with flaccid right hemi-plegia and mixed aphasia. The patient was functionally assessed using the following scales: Functional Independence Measure (FIM), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA), modified Ashworth, Penn Spasm Frequency Scale (Penn), Life Quality Assessment (QOL), FAC Interna-tional Scale, Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended (GOS-E), modified Rankin scale (mRS), Aphasia Screening Test (AST-Whurr). Results: The patient showed a favorable evolution with remitted aphasia and walking traing with self-support in tertrapod walking stick. At the same time, the patient can use the plegic upper limb in performing feeding activities. Conclusion: It should be noted that neurosurgical intervention and pharmacological treatment, associated with an indi-vidual rehabilitation program consisting of: physical, occupational and speech therapies and al-so rehabilitation nursing interventions in a patient diagnosed with flaccid right hemiplegia and mixed aphasia after total surgical resection of the intraventricular central neurocytoma has im-proved the control of symptoms and the patient's quality of life.

Keywords: benign brain tumor, central neurocytoma, hemiplegia, rehabilitation
The recovery management of patients with operated extrame-dullary spinal arteriovenous fistula, evolution and socio-professional reintegration: case report and review of the litera-ture
Authors: Nistor Cseppento Carmen Delia , Iovanovici Diana Carina , Andronie – Cioara Felicia Liana , Tarce Alexandra Georgiana , Bochiș Călin Florin , Bochiș Sergiu Alin , Dogaru Bombonica Gabriela
Published: March 2022

Adequate therapeutic intervention performed in the case of extradural spinal AVM and an inten-sive recovery program allow the amelioration of neurological manifestations in a very high percentage. With the ultimate goal of practicing a trade, a good biological recovery is needed for social recovery. The effectiveness of strategies for professional integration and reintegration de-pends largely on the patient’s experiences before the onset of the disease. The paper aims to re-view the treatment, the evolution of patients with extradural spinal AV and the possibilities of socio-professional reintegration. Methods and analysis. A case presentation of a patient diag-nosed with extradural spinal AV fistula is proposed, along with a review of the current literature on the treatment of this pathology, the evolution and the possibilities of vocational recovery. The studies will be analysed and selected in two stages, in the first stage the titles and abstracts, in the second stage, the articles with full text will be analysed, selected and a narrative synthesis of the included studies will be made. Summary case. The 51-year-old urban patient, a profes-sional driving instructor who underwent endovascular and surgical treatment for extradural spinal AV fistula, is hospitalized for a moderate motor deficit, such as paraparesis, back pain, mechanical pain in the knees and gait disorders. The objectives of recovery are represented by neuromotor recovery and socio-professional reintegration. Conclusions. Spinal EAVFs are rare lesions with a low risk of bleeding; the clinical manifestations are determined by the compres-sion of the bone marrow; these being significantly improved after the endovascular and surgical treatment. Studies show a good long-term prognosis, which is determined by the absence of re-currences. An essential role in the integration of patients with disabilities in the socio-professional life is the identification of their deficiencies and their reorientation according to the outstanding abilities, the stimulation of the preserved skills.

Keywords: rehabilitation, disc hernia, low back pain, paraplegia
Rehabilitation of severe neurological complications post SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Anghelescu Aurelian , Saglam Ali-Osman , Stoica Simona Isabelle , Onose Gelu
Published: March 2022

Medical rehabilitation is a multi-professional / interdisciplinary process aimed at enhancing and restoring functional ability (activity and participation) and quality of life to people with im-pairments or disabilities. Rehabilitation is applied throughout the continuum of care. COVID-19 patients may develop a myriad of acute medical problems (linked to the virus per se, or as con-sequences of the invasive procedures), which can cause acute, post-acute and long-term conse-quences requiring rehabilitation. Information about short and long-term sequelae of COVID-19 indicate an increasing need for rehabilitation. The paper is focused on two main aspects: rehabil-itation of the severe neurological disabilities that occurred during the acute phase and continu-ing in the chronic phase (i.e., different neurological sensory-motor and cognitive deficits sec-ondary to stroke, encephalitis, seizures, encephalopathies). The other main issue is generated by the disruption of regular rehabilitation in people with neurological disabilities and chronic dis-eases (people living with sequels after stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis) due to quarantine, social isolation, movement restriction, and other healthcare systems ’disruptions. Methods Internet literature search (Lit Covid and PubMed) using the following keywords (Covid-19, Coronavirus, neurological complications, rehabilitation). During 2020-2021 were published 88 papers (in 2020 = 54, and in 2021= 54), with 21 reviewes (2020 = 15; 2021 = 8), and 2 systematic reviews, refearing neuroreabilitation in Covid-19 subacutre and long-term cas-es. Discussion REH-COVER Cochrane Rehabilitation WHO initiative (“Rapid Living Systematic Reviews Second Edition, called 2020”), contains the main cornerstones for a tailored rehabilita-tion programme, the best (current) available rehabilitation evidence on recovery interventions, for the patients living with sequelae of COVID-19. Conclusions More than two years since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is obvious that rehabilitation services play a crucial role in post-COVID recovery trajectories. A further achievement of research and evidence focussed on the clinical management, comprehensive treatments, and efficacy need to be targeted on short and long-term (neuro)-rehabilitation service models of care, for COVID-19 survivors.

Keywords: Covid-19, rehabilitation, neurological disabilities, SARS-CoV-2
Influence of melatonin on systemic inflammatory status and bone histopathological modifications in female rats with surgically induced menopause
Authors: Ciortea Viorela Mihaela , Borda Monica Ileana , Motoașcă Irina , Șușman Sergiu , Ciubean Alina Deniza , Pintea Alina Liliana , Ungur Rodica Ana , Iliescu Mădălina Gabriela , Irsay Laszlo
Published: March 2022

Background. Melatonin, N-acetyl-5-methoxy-tryptamine is the major secretion product of the pineal gland with important anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, also being an im-portant marker of bone remodelling associated with menopause. Objectives. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of the co-administration of melatonin and estrogen on systemic inflammatory status and bone histopathological modifications in surgically induced menopau-sal female rats. Materials and methods. The study was performed on a number of 40 female rats, Wistar breed, which underwent bilateral surgical ovariectomy. Within 14 days postoperative, hormone replacement therapy with estrogen or estrogen with melatonin was initiated, in differ-ent doses. The treatment was administered for 12 consecutive weeks. At the end of the treatment we measured the serum levels of IL-6 and TNF-α. The femoral bones were harvested after sacri-ficing the animals and the thickness of the cortical bones was measured and histologically ana-lysed.
Results. Serum values of inflammatory markers were negatively correlated with melatonin ad-ministration, the differences being more important at higher doses of melatonin (for both IL-6 and TNF-α the difference between group E_2M with estrogen substitution and melatonin in double dose and control group W, without hormone replacement, was highly statistically signif-icant with p <0.0001). Bone diameters improved in the case of female rats that received hormone replacement with estrogen and higher dose of melatonin (p = 0.0004 between group E_2M, with hormone replacement and group W, control group). Conclusions. Melatonin improved inflam-matory status and bone histopathological changes in ovariectomized female rats.

Keywords: melatonin, estrogen replacement therapy, inflammation, low bone density
Medical management and rehabilitation in posttraumatic common peroneal nerve palsy
Authors: Popa Florina Ligia , Diaconu Cosmina , Canciu Adriana , Ciortea Viorela Mihaela , Iliescu Mădălina Gabriela , Stanciu Mihaela
Published: March 2022

Introduction. The common peroneal nerve and the tibial nerve are the two major components into which the sciatic nerve divides. The severity of common peroneal nerve damage depends on the aetiopathogenic mechanism and the place of injury. The peroneal ram of the sciatic nerve injury is the most common cause of mononeuropathy of the lower limb which can cause a signi-ficant disability if is not properly diagnosed and treated. Material and method. We present the case of a 40-year-old patient who suffered a polytrauma by road accident resulting in left tro-chanteric-diaphyseal femoral comminuted open fracture, lacerated wound on the posterolateral middle third of the left thigh, left sacral wing fracture without displacement, left L1, L2, L3 tran-sverse apophyseal fractures and splenic laceration, treated surgically and orthopedically. The pa-tient was admitted to the Medical Reabilitation Department of Sibiu for left leg motor deficit, mechanical pain and functional deficit of the left hip and ankle, gait disorders. Complex rehabi-litation treatment was initiated 3 months after the accident. Results and discussion. Common pe-roneal nerve palsy was confirmed following neurological consultation the day after admission to Orthopaedics-Traumatology Department of Sibiu where continuous extension-traction was performed in order to relax the fracture and subsequent osteosynthesis surgery of the femur fracture. The presence of a deep and lacerating wound on the posterolateral left thigh caused the nerve injury. The coagulase-negative Staphylococcus aureus overinfection of the wound required secondary suturing and subsequently led to fibrous scar formation, adversely affecting the post-injury repair of the common fibular nerve. Conclusions. In patients with posttraumatic common peroneal nerve palsy, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, including medical rehabilitation, are essential. Medical rehabilitation should be continued on a sustained basis be-cause nerve regeneration occurs slowly. The prognosis mainly depends on the severity of the initial nerve injury.

Keywords: common fibular nerve injury, polytrauma, medical rehabilitation
Rehabilitation of post-COVID patients with chronic fatigue and cognitive disorders syndromes
Authors: Babliuk Liudmila , Fediaeva Svitlana , Babova Iryna , Mesoedova Vita , Tamazlykar Sergii
Published: March 2022

Almost all patients, who have experienced acute manifestations of COVID-19, regardless of the severity of the acute phase of the disease, are only at the beginning of a long way to recovery. According to experts, SARS-CoV-2 infection should affect almost 80% of the world's population, so all these patients to a greater or lesser extent will need a rehabilitation of certain manifesta-tions of postcovid syndrome.
Purpose: to study the effectiveness of rehabilitation program and the dynamics of cognitive im-pairment and manifestations of chronic fatigue syndrome in patients after coronavirus disease.
Methods: The study design included 60 patients after SARS-Cov-2 infection. Among the exam-ined patients there were 26 (43,3%) women and 34 (56,7%) men. An average age of the patients was 43,9±1,08 years. Patients were referred to the Department of Physical Rehabilitation after coronavirus disease with chronic fatigue and cognitive disorders syndromes. Accordingly, all patients, who participated in the study, were divided into two groups: group I - 28 patients with a general condition of moderate severity at the hospital stage and 32 patients - group II, with se-vere course of the disease and oxygen demand at the hospital stage. Depending on the duration of rehabilitation, two observation periods were used - on the 7th and 14th day of rehabilitation program.
Results: It has been proven, that patients, who didn’t need oxygen, were complaining about an-osmia, cephalgia, cognitive impairment, increased anxiety and fatigue. Dysgeusia, dyssomnia, and depression were more common in patients, requiring oxygen therapy at the hospital stage. Rehabilitation program eliminated cognitive dysfunction, depression, cephalgia, drowsiness and dyssomnia on the 7th day in patients, who did not require oxygen therapy (p>0,05), and in patients, who needed oxygen therapy - on the 14th day of the rehabilitation program (p>0,05). However, 2 (6,3%) and 3 (9,4%) patients, who needed oxygen therapy, even after 14 days of reha-bilitation had manifestations of minor recurrent headache and drowsiness.
Conclusion: Thus, patients after coronavirus disease, who needed oxygen therapy at the hospital stage, need long-term rehabilitation program.

Keywords: postcovid syndrome, anxiety, depression, drowsiness, rehabilitation
The Textual Apparatus of Empire in Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness
Authors: Nayar Pramod K.
Published: March 2022

This essay argues that the collapse of Empire in Conrad’s Heart of Darkness is troped as the erosion of textuality. Five key instances of this textual collapse occur in the novel: the maps Marlow reads as a child, the accounting books, the seaman’s manual, the Kurtz Report and the Company papers. There are also a few minor instances of similar textual collapses, which also come to attention here. The essay notes that in each case the text’s significance is lost or altered in specific ways, and this contributes to the erosion of the authority of the text.
Huizinga’sHomo Ludensand the Element of Playfulness in Emily Dickinson
Authors: West Michael
Published: March 2022

InHomo LudensJohan Huizinga defined play as a free activity outside “ordinary” life, viewed as “not serious”, “connected with no material interest” or possible “profit”, “proceed[ing] within its own proper boundaries” by “fixed rules”, and fostering groups shrouded in “secrecy stress[ing]” their separateness “by disguise or other means” (1949: 13). He audaciously argued that human culture originated in play and to some extent remains play. His analysis illuminates how Dickinson approached aspects of culture like language, religion, war, law, politics, love, education, and art. Nourished by affluent gentry privileges and prejudices, Dickinson’s detached playfulness strikes some as socially irresponsible. Does defending her seriousness validate Huizinga’s claim that “solitary play is productive of culture only in a limited degree” (1949: 47), or should we challenge Huizinga here? Did her privately circulated works have any impact on culture, and if so, how? Strategies of withdrawal, inconclusiveness, and depersonalization ultimately turned her playful poetry into high culture.
The role of neutralizing antibodies by sVNT after two doses of BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine in a cohort of Italian healthcare workers
Authors: Infantino Maria , Manfredi Mariangela , Stacchini Lorenzo , Cosma Claudia , Grossi Valentina , Lari Barbara , Russo Edda , Amedei Amedeo , Benucci Maurizio , Veneziani Francesca , Casprini Patrizia , Catalano Cateno Mario , Cirrincione Giuseppe , Bonaccorsi Guglielmo , Pompetti Adolfo
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Evaluating anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels is a current priority to drive immunization, as well as to predict when a vaccine booster dose may be required and for which priority groups. The aim of our study was to investigate the kinetics of anti-SARS-CoV-2 Spike S1 protein IgG (anti-S1 IgG) antibodies and neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) in an Italian cohort of healthcare workers (HCWs), following the Pfizer/BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine, over a period of up to six months after the second dose.

Methods

We enrolled 57 HCWs, without clinical history of COVID-19 infection. Fluoroenzyme-immunoassay was used for the quantitative anti-S1 IgG antibodies at different time points T1 (one month), T3 (three months) and T6 (six months) following the second vaccine shot. Simultaneously, a commercial surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT) was used for the determination of NAbs, expressed as inhibition percentage (% IH).

Results

Median values of anti-S1 IgG antibodies decreased from T1 (1,452 BAU/mL) to T6 (104 BAU/mL) with a percent variation of 92.8% while the sVNT showed a percent variation of 34.3% for the same time frame. The decline in anti-S1 IgG antibodies from T1 to T6 was not accompanied by a loss of the neutralizing capacity of antibodies. In fact at T6 a neutralization percentage <20% IH was observed only in 3.51% of HCWs.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal that the decrease of anti-S1 IgG levels do not correspond in parallel to a decrease of NAbs over time, which highlights the necessity of using both assays to assess vaccination effectiveness.
The mesoporous aluminosilicate application as support for bifunctional catalysts for n-hexadecane hydroconversion
Authors: Vassilina Gulzira , Umbetkaliyeva Kamilla , Abdrassilova Albina , Vassilina Tursunay , Zakirov Zhassulan
Published: March 2022

Mesoporous aluminosilicate (MAS) and bifunctional catalysts based on it were synthesized. The MAS synthesis is based on the method of copolycondensation of silicon and aluminum sources in the presence of alcohol. Hexadecylamine was used as a template for the formation of a porous structure. The catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, temperature-programmed desorption of ammonia, hydrogen-temperature programmed reduction, Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy, and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopic methods. The catalytic activity of Ni/MAS-H-bentonite and Mo/MAS-H-bentonite was investigated during the hydroconversion of n-hexadecane. It has been shown that a sample promoted with molybdenum and nickel based on MAS has the high activity and selectivity in the process of n-hexadecane hydroisomerization under optimal conditions (320°C, atm pressure).
Greatest-common-divisor dependency of juggling sequence rotation efficient performance
Authors: Erho Joseph A. , Consul Juliana I. , Japheth Bunakiye R.
Published: March 2022

In previous experimental study with three-way-reversal and juggling sequence rotation algorithms, using 20,000,000 elements for type LONG in Java, the average execution times have been shown to be 49.66761ms and 246.4394ms, respectively. These results have revealed appreciable low performance in the juggling algorithm despite its proven optimality. However, the juggling algorithm has also exhibited efficiency with some offset ranges. Due to this pattern of the juggling algorithm, the current study is focused on investigating source of the inefficiency on the average performance. Samples were extracted from the previous experimental data, presented differently and analyzed both graphically and in tabular form. Greatest common divisor values from the data that equal offsets were used. As emanating from the previous study, the Java language used for the rotation was to simulate ordering of tasks for safety and efficiency in the context of real-time task scheduling. Outcome of the investigation shows that juggling rotation performance competes favorably with three-way-reversal rotation (and even better in few cases) for certain offsets, but poorly with the rests. This study identifies the poorest performances around offsets in the neighborhood ofsquare rootof the sequence size. From the outcome, the study therefore strongly advises application developers (especially for real-time systems) to be mindful ofwhereandhowto in using juggling rotation.
Review of passivity and electrochemical properties of nanostructured stainless steels obtained by surface mechanical attrition treatment (SMAT): trend and progress
Authors: Olugbade Temitope Olumide , Olutomilola Emmanuel Olatunji , Olorunfemi Bayode Julius
Published: March 2022

Surface nanocrystallization provides the opportunity to produce gradient-structured metallic materials with improved properties. Several attempts have been made to produce nanostructured stainless steel (SS), along with the study of the resultant corrosion resistance. However, the current knowledge is insufficient to address the corrosion mechanism and the possible ways of enhancing the corrosion resistance after surface treatment. The present work reviews the past significant works on the effect of surface treatment by surface mechanical attrition treatment (SMAT) method as well as its processing parameters on the corrosion properties of SS. The corrosion resistance of nanostructured SS is influenced by the extent of grain refinement, compactness, and homogeneity of the passive film, Cr content, grain boundary structure, composition, and alloying elements. In addition, the resulting corrosion properties can be controlled by choosing the right processing parameters during treatment. Progress on the corrosion behavior of nanostructured steels was summarized and new avenues for further research and developments are proposed.
Study on the self-assembly of aromatic antimicrobial peptides based on different PAF26 peptide sequences
Authors: Cao Fengyi , Zhu Genxing , Song Meng , Zhao Xiaoli , Ma Gangqing , Zhang Mengqing
Published: March 2022

Antimicrobial peptide (AMP) self-assembly is an effective way to synthesis antimicrobial biomaterials. In previous studies, we found PAF26 AMP (Ac-RKKWFW-NH2) and its derivative K2–F2 peptide (Ac-KKRKKWFWFF-NH2) could both self-assemble into hydrogels, but they had distinct microscopic structures. Therefore, in this work five PAF26 peptide derivatives with different numbers of aromatic amino acids are designed to better understand the self-assembly mechanism of aromatic AMP. The transmission electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, circular dichroism, and fluorescence spectroscopy characterizations are carried out to study the microscope structure, secondary conformation, and molecular interactions. It is found that the five peptide derivatives have different microscopic structures, and the number of aromatic amino acids will affect the peptide hydrogen bonding and aromatic stacking interactions, causing significant differences in the secondary conformation and microscopic structure. This work will enhance the comprehension of aromatic AMP self-assembly.
Effects of grafting and long-chain branching structures on rheological behavior, crystallization properties, foaming performance, and mechanical properties of polyamide 6
Authors: Cao Lushuai , Jiang Tuanhui , Liu Bujin , Li Ming , Zhang Di , Gong Wei , He Li
Published: March 2022

Polyamide 6 (PA6) was modified with ethylene maleic anhydride syndiotactic copolymer resin (ZeMac), and triglycidyl isocyanurate (TGIC) as modifiers to prepare a grafting structure and a long-chain branching structure, respectively. The effects of two modifiers on the rheological behavior, crystallization properties, foaming performance, and mechanical properties of PA6 were systematically studied by rotating rheometry, differential scanning calorimetry and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that there were differences in crystallization properties between the two modification methods, but they significantly improved the rheological, foaming performance, and mechanical properties of PA6. In particular, PA6 with long-chain branching structure through TGIC modification showed better performance in various physicochemical characterizations. The introduction of ZeMac reduced the average diameter of bubbles in pure PA6 from 146.32 to 88.12 µm, and the density of bubbles increased from 1.69 × 105 to 5.35 × 105 cells·cm−3. The introduction of TGIC reduced the average diameter of bubbles in pure PA6 from 146.32 to 64.36 µm, and the density of bubbles increased to 1.31 × 106 cells·cm−3. Moreover, the mechanical properties of both nonfoamed and foamed samples were improved after modification.
Recent advances in dynamic covalent bond-based shape memory polymers
Authors: Peng Shuyi , Sun Ye , Ma Chunming , Duan Gaigai , Liu Zhenzhong , Ma Chunxin
Published: March 2022

Dynamic covalent bond-based shape memory polymers (DCB-SMPs) are one of most important SMPs which have a wide potential application prospect. Different from common strong covalent bonds, DCBs own relatively weak bonding energy, similarly to the supramolecular interactions of noncovalent bonds, and can dynamically combine and dissociate these bonds. DCB-SMP solids, which can be designed to respond for different stimuli, can provide excellent self-healing, good reprocessability, and high mechanical performance, because DCBs can obtain dynamic cross-linking without sacrificing ultrahigh fixing rates. Furthermore, besides DCB-SMP solids, DCB-SMP hydrogels with responsiveness to various stimuli also have been developed recently, which have special biocompatible soft/wet states. Particularly, DCB-SMPs can be combined with emerging 3D-printing techniques to design various original shapes and subsequently complex shape recovery. This review has summarized recent research studies about SMPs based on various DCBs including DCB-SMP solids, DCB-SMP hydrogels, and the introduction of new 3D-printing techniques using them. Last but not least, the advantages/disadvantages of different DCB-SMPs have been analyzed via polymeric structures and the future development trends in this field have been predicted.
An Etruscan Black-Figure Hydria: The Judgment of Paris in Archaic Etruria
Authors: Croker Ollie , Mannack Thomas
Published: March 2022

This paper assesses a rediscovered Etruscan black-figure hydria in the collection of the Higgins Museum, Bedford. It is immediately apparent that the hydria depicts the Judgment of Paris, common on contemporary Greek vases imported into Etruria. This discussion seeks to attribute the hydria to the Micali Painter. The discovery of this vase allows for a greater study of the attributes of figures present in already known Archaic Etruscan Judgment of Paris scenes. As certain consistent elements become recognizable on these examples, this analysis suggests that Etruscan artists were not simply copying the iconography of Greek imported vases; indeed, the attributes of the deities depicted on the vase indicate an engagement with, and deeper understanding of, the subject.
Sedimentary facies characterization of forced regression in the Pearl River Mouth basin
Authors: Yu Ye , Zhang Changmin , Wang Li , Hursthouse Andrew , Li Shaohua , Huang Yanran , Cao Taotao
Published: March 2022

The Miocene Zhujiang Formation is the key horizon for oil and gas exploration in the Pearl River Mouth basin of northern South China Sea. With the help of core observation, seismic attributes and various analytical data, the sedimentary facies marks, distribution of sedimentary facies and depositional model of forced regression in the Miocene Zhujiang Formation of the Pearl River Mouth basin, northern South China Sea, have been studied. Forced regressive deposits were formed during the period when relative sea level ranged from highstand to lowstand and the sediments were forced to undergo progradation so that five sets of foreset delta deposits are developed in turn. In the early stage of forced regression, the normal delta where the delta plain, delta front and prodelta are not absent mainly developed. In the later stage of forced regression, the shelf edge delta with only the delta front and the prodelta, the longshore bar along the shelf break and the turbidite fan in the deep water of the slope area were developed. The favorable reservoir of forced regressive deposits are located near the upper boundary of the falling stage systems tract and the basal surface of forced regression, and they are the sand bodies of shelf edge delta, longshore bar and turbidite fan. The research results may provide guidance for reservoir prediction.
Economic complexity and productivity polarization: Evidence from Italian provinces
Authors: Basile Roberto , Cicerone Gloria
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we analyze the role of economic complexity as a driver of regional labor productivity growth in Italy. The Economic Complexity Index (ECI) measures the multiplicity of knowledge embedded in an economy’s productive structure and can be interpreted as an indicator of “qualified diversity”. We assess the impact ofECIon the distribution dynamics of labor productivity by combining growth regression analysis with conditional density estimates. Counterfactual analysis results suggest thatECIplays a key role in the observed tendency to polarization of regional labor productivity. We also provide evidence of a long-run relationship between labor productivity andECIby using a panel cointegration analysis.
Effect of edge oxidized graphene oxide on micro and macro mechanical properties and microstructure of cement paste
Authors: Alanazi Hani , Alharbi Yousef R. , Abadel Aref A. , Elalaoui Oussama
Published: March 2022

The effects of edge-oxidized graphene oxide (EOGO) on the micro–macro mechanical properties and microstructure of cement pastes were evaluated. Three different cement pastes with EOGO contents of 0 %, 0.05 %, and 0.5 % were prepared, and the compressive strengths and different ages were examined. In addition, the nanomechanical properties of the pastes were measured by nanoindentation tests, and their microstructures were assessed by scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and mercury intrusion porosimetry. It was found that EOGO remarkably improved the compressive strength of the cement pastes by about 20 %. Nanoindentation results were also in line with the findings of compressive strength. The frequency of occurrence of indentation with modulus around 20 GPa slightly increased with the addition of EOGO. Moreover, EOGO improved the pore size distribution of the cement pastes. SEM images revealed that the EOGO-containing cement pastes were composed of similar microstructural phases.
The experience of novice nurse faculty in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alanazi Fadiyah Jadid
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To understand the experience of novice nurse faculty members in Saudi Arabia and the influences on novice nurse graduates in their academic role.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive study grounded in naturalistic inquiry was used to better understand the experience of novice faculty in Saudi Arabia. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 10 novice nurse faculty from nursing schools in Saudi universities. Data were collected until saturation was achieved. The researcher interviewed participants using a video conferencing platform, and all interviews were digitally audio-recorded. Content and thematic analysis were used to analyze the data.

Results

There were four major themes: teaching on a peninsula, navigating in the dark, grappling with the faculty role, and working hard to create hope for a better tomorrow.

Conclusions

The findings add to the literature regarding the novice faculty experience, self-confidence, and the strategies needed to enhance their teaching performance.
Primitivity rank for random elements in free groups
Authors: Kapovich Ilya
Published: March 2022

For a free group

F
r

F_{r}

of finite rank

r
≥
2

r\geq 2

and a non-trivial element

w
∈

F
r

w\in F_{r}

, the primitivity rank

π
⁢

(
w
)

\pi(w)

is the smallest rank of a subgroup

H
≤

F
r

H\leq F_{r}

such that

w
∈
H

w\in H

and 𝑤 is not primitive in 𝐻 (if no such 𝐻 exists, one puts

π
⁢

(
w
)

=
∞

\pi(w)=\infty

).
The set of all subgroups of

F
r

F_{r}

of rank

π
⁢

(
w
)

\pi(w)

containing 𝑤 as a non-primitive element is denoted by

Crit
⁡

(
w
)

\operatorname{Crit}(w)

.
These notions were introduced by Puder (2014).
We prove that there exists an exponentially generic subset

V
⊆

F
r

V\subseteq F_{r}

such that, for every

w
∈
V

w\in V

, we have

π
⁢

(
w
)

=
r

\pi(w)=r

and

Crit
⁡

(
w
)

=

{

F
r

}

\operatorname{Crit}(w)=\{F_{r}\}

.