bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Happiness, quality of working life, and job satisfaction among nurses working in emergency departments in Iran
Authors: Javanmardnejad Somayeh , Bandari Razieh , Heravi-Karimooi Majideh , Rejeh Nahid , Sharif Nia Hamid , Montazeri Ali
Published: April 2021

Background

Nurses have a vital role in the healthcare system. One of the basic steps to increase their happiness is to recognize factors such as job satisfaction and quality of working life. Therefore, the goal of the present study was to examine the relationship between happiness and quality of working life and job satisfaction among nursing personnel.

Methods

This descriptive study was carried out on 270 hospital nurses who worked in emergency departments in Iran. Nurses were recruited through the census method. Data collection instruments included the Oxford Happiness Inventory (OHI), the Quality of Work Life Questionnaire (QWL), and the Job Satisfaction Questionnaire (JSQ). Data were explored using descriptive statistics, and stepwise multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

The mean age of participants was 30.1 ± 6.26 years. The mean happiness score was 38.5 ± 16.22, the mean Quality of Working Life (QWL) score was 84.3 ± 17.62, and the mean job satisfaction score was found to be 45.5 ± 13.57); corresponding to moderate levels of attributes. The results obtained from the ordinary least-square (OLS) regression indicated that happiness significantly was associated with economic status and satisfaction with closure (R2: 0.38).

Conclusion

Overall the current study found that nurses who work in emergency departments did not feel happy. Additionally, the findings suggest that their happiness were associated with their economic status, and closure over their duties.
Sole adjuvant intraoperative breast radiotherapy in Taiwan: a single-center experience
Authors: Yang Hsin-Yi , Tu Chi-Wen , Chen Chien-Chin , Lee Cheng-Yen , Hsu Yu-Chen
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) is more convenient than standard whole breast external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) as a sole adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer. The impact of age on breast cancer course and treatment strategy is still under investigation, and the peak age for breast cancer in Taiwan is much younger than that in Western countries. We aimed to review the oncological outcomes of sole IORT compared with standard EBRT in a country with younger breast cancer patients.

Patients and methods

We reviewed patients with invasive breast cancer who received breast-conserving surgery (BCS) from September 2014 to December 2016. The clinicopathologic characteristics and oncological outcomes of eligible patients who received EBRT or IORT as sole adjuvant radiotherapy after BCS were collected and reviewed.

Results

A total of 170 patients were enrolled with a mean follow-up time of 3.53 ± 0.82 years. The risk of locoregional recurrence was 2.44% for EBRT versus 10.64% for IORT (p = 0.024). IORT was a significant risk factor of locoregional recurrence (p = 0.005). The hazard ratios (HRs) for locoregional recurrence in the IORT group compared with the EBRT group were significantly higher in non-suitable risk group patients (HR = 7.02, p = 0.009) and in patients under 50 years old (HR = 10.42, p = 0.011).

Conclusions

Locoregional recurrence was significantly higher in patients who received IORT than in those who underwent EBRT. IORT should not be used alone in patients under 50 years old who do not belong to a suitable group.
What are the challenges when recruiting to a trial in children’s social care? A qualitative evaluation of a trial of foster carer training
Authors: Moody Gwenllian , Brookes-Howell Lucy , Cannings-John Rebecca , Channon Sue , Coulman Elinor , Rees Alyson , Segrott Jeremy , Robling Michael
Published: April 2021

Background

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are comparatively rare in UK social work, but can offer distinct advantages. Confidence in Care (CiC) is an RCT with embedded process evaluation evaluating Fostering Changes (FC), a 12-week training programme for foster and kinship carers to increase skills and coping strategies. In order to mitigate challenges in participant recruitment, an engagement strategy was designed to maximise this. Our aim is to explore experiences of key study stakeholders towards trial recruitment and identify broader messages about recruitment to social care trials.

Methods

Three focus groups were conducted, two with field-based recruiting staff (n = 7) and one with carers who attended the FC programme (n = 8). Five interviews were conducted with trainers who delivered FC, eight with foster carers who attended the programme, 18 with Foster Carers who elected not to take part in the programme, and 12 with social workers from participating trial sites. In addition, an away day for FC trainers was observed and discussions related to recruitment were noted. Transcribed audio-recorded data were inductively coded, double-coded by a second researcher, and thematically analysed.

Results

Six themes were identified. The first addressed pragmatic aspects of the intervention affecting recruitment (e.g. committing to a 12-week programme). A second focussed on accuracy of communication about the trial between provider agencies and carers. A third concerned the ability of recruiting staff to contact carers, a particular challenge in group-based recruitment. A fourth addressed trial methods and their communication (e.g. relationship between trial team and recruiting staff). A fifth explored lack of differentiation by carers between the roles of the various professionals (e.g. FC facilitators and provider agencies). The sixth addressed perceived differences between recruitment into social care and health studies.

Conclusions

Recruitment challenges in this social care setting were similar to those in healthcare. Some (e.g. gatekeeping by professional staff) may be rooted in randomisation anxiety, or unfamiliarity with research methods. Researchers more familiar with healthcare recruitment were however encouraged about the experience of working in this care setting. The original recruitment strategy and adaptations form the basis of further recommendations for research practice.

Trial registration

ISRCTN19090228. Registered on 11 January 2017.
Research Screener: a machine learning tool to semi-automate abstract screening for systematic reviews
Authors: Chai Kevin E. K. , Lines Robin L. J. , Gucciardi Daniel F. , Ng Leo
Published: April 2021

Background

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses provide the highest level of evidence to help inform policy and practice, yet their rigorous nature is associated with significant time and economic demands. The screening of titles and abstracts is the most time consuming part of the review process with analysts required review thousands of articles manually, taking on average 33 days. New technologies aimed at streamlining the screening process have provided initial promising findings, yet there are limitations with current approaches and barriers to the widespread use of these tools. In this paper, we introduce and report initial evidence on the utility of Research Screener, a semi-automated machine learning tool to facilitate abstract screening.

Methods

Three sets of analyses (simulation, interactive and sensitivity) were conducted to provide evidence of the utility of the tool through both simulated and real-world examples.

Results

Research Screener delivered a workload saving of between 60 and 96% across nine systematic reviews and two scoping reviews. Findings from the real-world interactive analysis demonstrated a time saving of 12.53 days compared to the manual screening, which equates to a financial saving of USD 2444. Conservatively, our results suggest that analysts who scan 50% of the total pool of articles identified via a systematic search are highly likely to have identified 100% of eligible papers.

Conclusions

In light of these findings, Research Screener is able to reduce the burden for researchers wishing to conduct a comprehensive systematic review without reducing the scientific rigour for which they strive to achieve.
Enhancing the Performance of Knee Beam–Column Joint Using Hybrid Fibers Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Zainal S. M. Iqbal S. , Hejazi Farzad , Rashid Raizal S. M.
Published: April 2021

The knee beam–column joint is a critical location in a Reinforced Concrete (RC) structure particularly when subjected to earthquake vibrations. The current structural design codes dictate the use of high amounts of steel reinforcements in the frame joint to manage large strain demands in seismic-prone regions. However, these codes could result in the congestion of steel reinforcements in the limited joint area which can consequently produce numerous construction complications. This study aims to improve the structural performance of Knee Joint (KJ) by reducing the load induced to the embedded steel reinforcements during seismic vibrations. Hence, this study attempted to develop a Hybrid Fiber Reinforced Concrete (HyFRC) by combining multiple synthetic fibers to be introduced onto KJ. Six KJ specimens were cast using five developed HyFRC materials and one Control specimen to be experimentally tested under lateral cyclic loading. The results indicated significant improvements for the HyFRC KJ specimens particularly in energy dissipation capacity, stiffness degradation rate, displacement ductility toughness, steel reinforcement strain and hysteretic behavior. A total of six Finite Element (FE) KJ models were developed using the HyFRC materials to verify the results from the experimental testing. The accuracy of the proposed FE models resulted in average percentage differences of 25.89% for peak load, 3.45% for peak load displacement and 0.18% for maximum displacements from the experimental data. In conclusion, this study developed HyFRC materials that are beneficial in providing cost-efficient alternatives to Reinforced Concrete (RC) KJ structures in areas with low to moderate level of seismic risks.
Cross-cultural adaptation of motivational interviewing for use in rural Nepal
Authors: Rimal Pragya , Khadka Sonu , Bogati Bhawana , Chaudhury Jamuna , Rawat Laxmi Kumari , Bhat Kumari Chhaya , Manandhar Pramita , Citrin David , Maru Duncan , Ekstrand Maria L. , Swar Sikhar Bahadur , Aryal Anu , Kohrt Brandon , Shrestha Srijana , Acharya Bibhav
Published: April 2021

Background

Motivational Interviewing (MI) has a robust evidence base in facilitating behavior change for several health conditions. MI focuses on the individual and assumes patient autonomy. Cross-cultural adaptation can face several challenges in settings where individualism and autonomy may not be as prominent. Sociocultural factors such as gender, class, caste hinder individual decision-making. Key informant perspectives are an essential aspect of cross-cultural adaptation of new interventions. Here, we share our experience of translating and adapting MI concepts to the local language and culture in rural Nepal, where families and communities play a central role in influencing a person’s behaviors.

Methods

We developed, translated, field-tested, and adapted a Nepali MI training module with key informants to generate insights on adapting MI for the first time in this cultural setting. Key informants were five Nepali nurses who supervise community health workers. We used structured observation notes to describe challenges and experiences in cross-cultural adaptation. We conducted this study as part of a larger study on using MI to improve adherence to HIV treatment.

Results

Participants viewed MI as an effective intervention with the potential to assist patients poorly engaged in care. Regarding patient autonomy, they initially shared examples of family members unsuccessfully dictating patient behavior change. These discussions led to consensus that every time the family members restrict patient's autonomy, the patient complies temporarily but then resumes their unhealthy behavior. In addition, participants highlighted that even when a patient is motivated to change (e.g., return for follow-up), their family members may not “allow” it. Discussion led to suggestions that health workers may need to conduct MI separately with patients and family members to understand everyone’s motivations and align those with the patient’s needs.

Conclusions

MI carries several cultural assumptions, particularly around individual freedom and autonomy. MI adaptation thus faces challenges in cultures where such assumptions may not hold. However, cross-cultural adaptation with key informant perspectives can lead to creative strategies that recognize both the patient’s autonomy and their role as a member of a complex social fabric to facilitate behavior change.
Linking market authorizations of medicines with disease burden in South Africa
Authors: Narsai K. , Leufkens H. G. M. , Mantel-Teeuwisse A. K.
Published: April 2021

Background

Sub-Saharan Africa is going through an epidemiological transition, including an impressive increase in non-communicable diseases. The introduction of medicines has not kept pace with the needs in developing countries. The objectives of this study were to (i) examine the correlation between the number of medicine approvals and disease burden and (ii) compare approval timelines of medicines with disease burden in South Africa in the period 2012–2017.

Methods

The dataset was compiled from publicly available data on medicines registered in South Africa between 2012 and 2017. A correlation analysis was conducted to determine the level of alignment between the number and nature of medicines registered, as determined by the WHO ATC Classification and the Lancet Global Burden of Disease data. Median registration timelines were determined to assess whether medicines for diseases of higher burden were registered faster.

Results

A total of 3059 registered medicines were included in the study, including 2779 generic medicines, 267 new chemical entities and 13 vaccines. There was a high level of alignment between the number of medicines registered to treat diseases with higher disease burden levels more effectively, except for lower respiratory tract infections and HIV/AIDS which showed less medicines registered as compared to expectations based on disease burden, respectively. HIV/AIDS showed a lower level of correlation with a much higher disease burden compared to number of medicines registered, but simultaneously also a much shorter median registration timeline (32 months) compared to the other disease areas.

Conclusions

There was generally a high level of alignment between disease burden and number of medicines authorised, except for HIV/AIDS and lower respiratory tract infections. Regulatory authorities should continue to consider burden of disease data to ensure that public health needs are met.
Bistatic scattering simulations of circular and linear polarizations over land surface for signals of opportunity reflectometry
Authors: Wu Xuerui , Song Yezhi , Xu Jin , Duan Zheng , Jin Shuanggen
Published: April 2021

Signals of Opportunity Reflectometry (SoOp-R) employs the communication system, GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) constellation and other potential Signals of Opportunity (SoOp) as the transmitters. In recent years, it has gained increased interests. Several experiments have been carried out, however it is still in the initial development stage. Theoretical predictions of SoOp Reflectometry for land surface parameters detection, such as soil moisture and vegetation biomass, should be carried out simultaneously. Meanwhile, at present less works are paid attention to the polarization study of the polarizations. The first-order radiative transfer equation models are employed here and they are developed according to the wave synthesis technique to get the various polarization combinations. Using the two models as analysis tools, we simulate the bistatic scattering at all potential SoOp Reflectometry bands, i.e., P-, L-, C- and X-band for circular polarizations and linear polarizations. While the original commonly used microwave scattering models are linear polarizations, here we compare the difference. Although the models can simulate bistatic scattering at any incident angles and scattering angles. Four special observation geometry are taken into considerations during the analysis. Using the developed models as tools, the developed models establish the relationship between the land surface parameters (such as soil moisture, soil roughness and vegetation water content, diameters et al.) and bistatic radar cross section. The forward scattering models developed here enables the understanding of the effects of different geophysical parameters and transmitter–receiver observation scenarios on the bisatic scattering at any polarization combinations for any potential SoOP reflectometry bands. Robust retrieval methods for soil moisture and vegetation biomass can benefit from the forward scattering models.
Team-based instructional change in undergraduate STEM: characterizing effective faculty collaboration
Authors: Sachmpazidi Diana , Olmstead Alice , Thompson Amreen Nasim , Henderson Charles , Beach Andrea
Published: April 2021

Background

Team-based instructional change is a promising model for improving undergraduate STEM instruction. Teams are more likely to produce sustainable, innovative, and high-quality outcomes than individuals working alone. However, teams also tend to involve higher risks of failure and can result in inefficient allocation of valuable resources. At this point, there is limited knowledge of how teams in the context of STEM higher education should work to achieve desirable outcomes.

Results

In this study, we collect semi-structured interview data from 23 team members from a total of 4 teams at 3 institutions across the USA. We analyze the results using a grounded theory approach and connect them to the existing literature. This study builds upon the first part of our work that developed a model of team inputs that lead to team outcomes. In this part, we identify the mechanisms by which input characteristics influence teamwork and outcomes. Team member data expand this initial model by identifying key aspects of team processes and emergent states. In this paper, we present five team processes: strategic leadership, egalitarian power dynamics, team member commitment, effective communication, and clear decision-making processes, that shape how teams work together, and three emergent states: shared vision, psychological safety, and team cohesion, that team members perceived as important aspects of how teams feel and think when working together.

Conclusions

This work furthers our understanding of how instructional change teams can be successful. However, due to the highly complex nature of teams, further investigation with more teams is required to test and enrich the emerging theory.
Evaluation of automated microvascular flow analysis software AVA 4: a validation study
Authors: Guay Christian S. , Khebir Mariam , Shiva Shahiri T. , Szilagyi Ariana , Cole Erin Elizabeth , Simoneau Gabrielle , Badawy Mohamed
Published: April 2021

Background

Real-time automated analysis of videos of the microvasculature is an essential step in the development of research protocols and clinical algorithms that incorporate point-of-care microvascular analysis. In response to the call for validation studies of available automated analysis software by the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine, and building on a previous validation study in sheep, we report the first human validation study of AVA 4.

Methods

Two retrospective perioperative datasets of human microcirculation videos (P1 and P2) and one prospective healthy volunteer dataset (V1) were used in this validation study. Video quality was assessed using the modified Microcirculation Image Quality Selection (MIQS) score. Videos were initially analyzed with (1) AVA software 3.2 by two experienced investigators using the gold standard semi-automated method, followed by an analysis with (2) AVA automated software 4.1. Microvascular variables measured were perfused vessel density (PVD), total vessel density (TVD), and proportion of perfused vessels (PPV). Bland–Altman analysis and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were used to measure agreement between the two methods. Each method’s ability to discriminate between microcirculatory states before and after induction of general anesthesia was assessed using paired t-tests.

Results

Fifty-two videos from P1, 128 videos from P2 and 26 videos from V1 met inclusion criteria for analysis. Correlational analysis and Bland–Altman analysis revealed poor agreement and no correlation between AVA 4.1 and AVA 3.2. Following the induction of general anesthesia, TVD and PVD measured using AVA 3.2 increased significantly for P1 (p < 0.05) and P2 (p < 0.05). However, these changes could not be replicated with the data generated by AVA 4.1.

Conclusions

AVA 4.1 is not a suitable tool for research or clinical purposes at this time. Future validation studies of automated microvascular flow analysis software should aim to measure the new software’s agreement with the gold standard, its ability to discriminate between clinical states and the quality thresholds at which its performance becomes unacceptable.
Comparative performance analysis of hybrid differential evolution and pattern search technique for frequency control of the electric power system
Authors: Pradhan Pratap Chandra , Sahu Rabindra Kumar , Panda Sidhartha
Published: April 2021

In the current situation, operation and control of power system is a greater challenge. The most significant situation in power system control is load frequency control. In the present work, a hybrid differential evolution and pattern search (hDE-PS) method has been suggested for frequency regulation of electrical power systems. Fractional-order proportional integral derivative (FOPID) controller is implemented for design and analysis purpose. The suggested control method has been applied for two electrical power systems model, i.e., 2-area diverse source power system with/without HVDC linkage and 2-area thermal system. The performances of the suggested controller have been evaluated with PID and optimal controller. The simulation results indicate that system performances are enhanced with the suggested approach for identical structure. Robustness of the suggested approach has been analyzed by variation in random load and the system parameters. The suggested method (hDE-PS tuned FOPID) is further investigated with a 2-area thermal system. The performance of the recommended approach is analyzed by equating the results with other newly available approaches, like Genetic Algorithm (GA), Bacteria Foraging Optimization Algorithm (BFOA), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), hybrid BFOA and PSO (hBFOA-PSO), multi-objective Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA)-II and Firefly Algorithm for the similar structure.
The effect of age at time of cochlear implantation on the pragmatic development of the prelingual hearing impaired children
Authors: Khodeir Mona Sameeh , Moussa Dina Fouad El Sayed , Shoeib Rasha Mohammed
Published: April 2021

Background

Pragmatics is the social use of language that draws on understanding human interactions in specific contexts and requires engagement with a communicative partner or partners. The hearing-impaired children are known to have a pragmatic language delay as hearing impairment deprived of exposure to natural communication interactions, in addition to the language delay they have. Since the age of implantation has emerged as an important predictor of language, hearing, and speech in children who use cochlear implants (CI), question aroused about the benefits of early cochlear implantation on pragmatic language development in those children. Thus, this study aims to compare the pragmatic language development of the prelingual hearing impaired children who cochlear implanted before the age of 3 years and those who cochlear implanted after the age of 3 years.

Results

The two study groups showed no significant differences regard their scores in the Egyptian Arabic Pragmatic Language Test (EAPLT). The two studied groups had pragmatic language scores below their 5th percentile. Among the studied groups, the scores of the EAPLT were positively correlated to the age of the children, the children’s language abilities, and the duration of the received language rehabilitation, with no significant correlation to the age of implantation.

Conclusions

The age of implantation has no impact on pragmatic language development in children with CI. The prelingual children with CI are susceptible to delays in the pragmatic language development that is primarily related to the age of those children and their language abilities, besides their experience in social interactions. These results should be considered in their rehabilitative plan and advocate the importance of early incorporation of pragmatic behaviors into their intervention programs.
Examining the development of PTSD symptoms in individuals who witness acute stress reaction on the battlefield
Authors: Harbertson Judith , Ziajko Lauretta , Watrous Jessica
Published: April 2021

Adler et al describe an innovative perspective on battlefield posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in response to an acute stress reaction (ASR), tracking not the individual experiencing ASR, but rather the service members who witness another team member experiencing an ASR. PTSD symptoms, reactions, observations and responses in the witness are assessed.
Diagnosis and Management of Neuroendocrine Disorders of Survivors of Brain Tumors
Authors: Erickson Dana , Donegan Diane
Published: April 2021

Advances in the treatment of brain tumors have led to an increase in the number of survivors of this disease. Consequently, the long-term complications associated with past and current treatments are becoming more apparent. Of relevance to patients who receive treatment of brain tumors are the potential neuroendocrine complications that develop either acutely or several years following treatment. Presentation may differ between adults and children (e.g., short stature or adult growth hormone deficiency) but in both settings can complicate treatment and impact quality of life. The risk for the development of these complications depends on the location of the tumor (proximity to the pituitary/hypothalamus) and/or the treatment delivered (chemotherapy/surgery/radiation). Given the potential overlap in symptoms attributable to the underlying brain tumor and neuroendocrine dysfunction, a high level of suspicion, appropriate investigation, and administration of treatment may reduce morbidity and mortality for patients with brain tumors experiencing neuroendocrine dysfunction.
Remote Home Monitoring of Patients With Cancer During the COVID Pandemic: A Pilot Study
Authors: Steimer Mary , Leabo Jessica , Wang Hongkun , Heyer David , Addison Nancy , Bowles Nancy , Cannon Timothy L. , Cuevo Raymund , Ershler William B. , Shafer Danielle , Jang Sekwon , Pennisi Angela , Al-Hussain Amjaad , Farrell Kirby , Deeken John F.
Published: April 2021

PURPOSE:

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges in the care of patients with cancer, including how to manage outpatients who are COVID-positive but do not require hospitalization. We explored the use of a remote patient monitoring (RPM) program to care for such outpatients.

METHODS:

Consecutive patients who were tested for COVID-19 because of symptom onset but were clinically stable were offered enrollment into a pilot RPM program. Patients were provided equipment for vital sign measurements and a computer tablet to enter results three times per day. The results were monitored centrally by clinical staff. The goal was to closely monitor patients and escalate care as warranted.

RESULTS:

Between March and June of 2020, 29 patients were approached and 26 were enrolled. The mean age was 57 years old (range, 30-88), 14 were women, and patients remained in the program for an average of 16 days (range, 2-63). Twenty-four patients (83%) were on active anticancer therapy. During that time period, only one patient was admitted to the hospital for worsening respiratory symptoms. The percentage of days during which at least one set of data and all three sets of data were entered was 97.2% and 65.7%, respectively. There was no association between the demographic factors of age, sex, or the reason for being monitored with the level of engagement ( P > .05).

CONCLUSION:

In this pilot study, patients with cancer were readily enrolled in a remote home monitoring program. Monitoring was feasible, and there was a high rate of engagement with the program. The role of RPM should be further tested as the COVID pandemic continues.
Approach to the History and Evaluation of Vertigo and Dizziness
Authors: Fife Terry D.
Published: April 2021

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article reviews a method of obtaining the medical history of patients presenting with dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance. By combining elements of the history with examination, the goal is to identify patterns and an effective differential diagnosis for this group of patients to help lead to an accurate diagnosis.

RECENT FINDINGS

Studies over the past dozen years have changed the historical approach to patients with dizziness from one based primarily on how the patient describes the sensation of dizziness. This older approach can lead to misdiagnosis, so a preferred method puts greater emphasis on whether the dizziness is acute or chronic, episodic or continuous, or evoked by or brought on by an event or circumstance so that a pattern may be derived that better narrows the differential diagnosis and focused examination can further narrow to a cause or causes.

Dizziness is a common symptom of many possible causes. This article will help clinicians navigate gathering the history and examination to formulate a working diagnosis in patients affected by dizziness.
Tinnitus, Hyperacusis, Otalgia, and Hearing Loss
Authors: Fife Terry D. , Tourkevich Roksolyana
Published: April 2021

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article reviews the causes of tinnitus, hyperacusis, and otalgia, as well as hearing loss relevant for clinicians in the field of neurology.

RECENT FINDINGS

Important causes of unilateral and bilateral tinnitus are discussed, including those that are treatable or caused by serious structural or vascular causes. Concepts of hyperacusis and misophonia are covered, along with various types of neurologic disorders that can lead to pain in the ear. Hearing loss is common but not always purely otologic.

Tinnitus and hearing loss are common symptoms that are sometimes related to a primary neurologic disorder. This review, tailored to neurologists who care for patients who may be referred to or encountered in neurology practice, provides information on hearing disorders, how to recognize when a neurologic process may be involved, and when to refer to otolaryngology or other specialists.
Novel Use of a Pyridinium Salt to Form a Solid Electrolyte Interphase (SEI) on High Voltage Lithium-Excess Layered Positive Active Material
Authors: Shomura Ryo , Sakakibara Keita , Marukane Shoko , Nakamichi Kimiyo , Morinaga Takashi , Tsujii Yoshinobu , Sato Takaya
Published: April 2021

Lithium-excess layered positive electrodes containing Fe and Ni are promising materials for the next generation of high voltage lithium ion batteries (LIB) because they are more chemically stable than those using Co and use more widely available metals. However, a positive electrode driven with a high voltage generates an electrochemical decomposition reaction of the electrolyte at the electrode interface and a significant deterioration in performance occurs. In order to suppress electrolysis of the electrolyte solution, a promising solution is to form a solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) on the electrode to mediate contact between the electrolyte solution and the electrode. In this study, we discovered that a pyridinium series salt, an ionic liquid, used as an additive, forms a good SEI on the positive electrode surface to improve the overall performance of the LIBs, such as improved cycle capacity and inhibited gas generation. Furthermore, from XPS, TOF-SIMS, 1H NMR and SEM measurements, we discuss the chemical makeup of the SEI and its formation mechanism, and propose a powerful method to achieve the next generation of high energy-density lithium ion batteries.
A 5-year-old Snowboarder with Boot Top Tibial Diaphysis Fracture
Authors: Prill Christine , Hoefler Amanda Honsvall
Published: April 2021

A previously healthy 5-year-old boy presented with an oblique fracture of the midtibial diaphysis at the top border of the snowboarding boot after falling from a standing position with both feet strapped to his snowboard. This case illustrates a snowboarding-specific variant of the torsion-tension boot top injury classically described in skiers. Unlike most snowboarding-related lower-extremity injuries, this fracture occurred in the absence of high-speed trauma or collision.
COVID-19 and digital transformation: developing an open experimental testbed for sustainable and innovative environments using Fuzzy Cognitive Maps
Authors: Höhl Wolfgang
Published: April 2021

This paper sketches a new approach using Fuzzy Cognitive Maps (FCMs) to operably map and simulate digital transformation in architecture and urban planning. Today these processes are poorly understood. Many current studies on digital transformation are only treating questions of economic efficiency. Sustainability and social impact only play a minor role. Decisive definitions, concepts and terms stay unclear. Therefore this paper develops an open experimental testbed for sustainable and innovative environments (ETSIE) for three different digital transformation scenarios using FCMs. A traditional growth-oriented scenario, a COVID-19 scenario and an innovative and sustainable COVID-19 scenario are modeled and tested. All three scenarios have the same number of components, connections and the same driver components. Only the initial state vectors are different and the internal correlations are weighted differently. This allows for comparing all three scenarios on an equal basis. The Mental Modeler software is used. This paper presents one of the first applications of FCMs in the context of digital transformation. It is shown that the traditional growth-oriented scenario is structurally very similar to the current COVID-19 scenario. The current pandemic is able to accelerate digital transformation to a certain extent. But the pandemic does not guarantee for a distinct sustainable and innovative future development. Only by changing the initial state vectors and the weights of the connections an innovative and sustainable turnaround in a third scenario becomes possible.
Wages of Information Technology Professionals - A Czech and Slovak Republic Case
Authors: Marek Luboš , Doucek Petr , Nedomová Lea
Published: April 2021

Purpose: The objective of this article is to compare the trend in wages of ICT Professionals in the Czech and Slovak economies during the past two decades.
Methodology/Approach: The input data set for ICT Professionals was relatively large - over 2.2 million (of which ICT represented over 60 thousand) in the Czech Republic and 1.1 million (of which ICT represented over 24 thousand) in the Slovak Republic. For the purposes of presented analyses, we used basic statistical methods and characteristics.
Findings: We can make the following general conclusions based on our analyses: all analyzed wage characteristics increased over time, with the exception of the economic crisis during 2009-2014 when they stagnate.
Research Limitation/Implication: Our data include outliers, especially wages above EUR 4,000. However, these wages, which are relatively rare, significantly influence the total volume of wages.
Originality/Value of paper: Analysis of our data offers information about development of average real wages in ICT oriented jobs. There can be found analysis of wages in all sectors in literature. Analysis of ICT Professionals wages is rarely published in journals.
The Nutritious Supply Chain: Optimizing Humanitarian Food Assistance
Authors: Peters Koen , Silva Sérgio , Gonçalves Rui , Kavelj Mirjana , Fleuren Hein , den Hertog Dick , Ergun Ozlem , Freeman Mallory
Published: April 2021

The World Food Programme (WFP) is the largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide, reaching approximately 90 million people with food assistance across 80 countries each year. To deal with the operational complexities inherent in its mandate, WFP has been developing tools to assist its decision makers with integrating supply chain decisions across departments and functional areas. This paper describes a mixed integer linear programming model that simultaneously optimizes the food basket to be delivered, the sourcing plan, the delivery plan, and the transfer modality of a long-term recovery operation for each month in a predefined time horizon. By connecting traditional supply chain elements to nutritional objectives, we are able to make significant breakthroughs in the operational excellence of WFP’s most complex operations. We show three examples of how the optimization model is used to support operations: (1) to reduce the operational costs in Iraq by 12% without compromising the nutritional value supplied, (2) to manage the scaling-up of the Yemen operation from three to six million beneficiaries, and (3) to identify sourcing strategies during the El Niño drought of 2016.
Detection of Partial Discharge in Oil Filled-Tank using Acoustic in Audio Frequency
Authors: Wahyudi Mochammad , Setiawan Noor Akhmad , Sugiyantoro Bambang , Negara I Made Yulistya , Adityasakti Gilang
Published: April 2021

In this paper, the acoustic emission of partial discharge (PD) in oil contained in the tank was detected by using microphone sensor. PD was generated by point-to-flat electrodes under DC high voltage. The given variables were the DC voltage stress, the electrode gap distance, and the location of PD and sensors. The acoustic and high frequency current were recorded along with the increased voltage. The acoustic signal was then transformed using the fast Fourier transform (FFT) to obtain the frequency spectrum. Furthermore, the acoustic waveforms, the acoustic frequency spectrum, and the PD current were analyzed and correlated. The results showed that the PD could be detected by its audio frequency signal. The impulse-shaped acoustic signal was recognized as a transition condition from normal to PD. The acoustic sensor attached to the outer wall of tank (contact type) was more sensitive than sensor that had a distance from the tank (non-contact type). The perfection level of impulse waveform may indicate the PD location in the oil-filled tank. The signal of acoustic and current did also not affect each other.
Design and Implementation of Buck Converter for Fast Charging with Fuzzy Logic
Authors: Sudiharto Indhana , Rahadyan Moch. Igam , Qudsi Ony Asrarul
Published: April 2021

This research presents a battery charger design that can charge faster than using a PWM type solar charge controller (SCC). SCC is often operated when the battery capacity is 80% so that the charging current that can be provided is only 10% to 20% of the battery capacity. The battery charging method applied in this study uses the principle of fast charging by adjusting the value of the current and the output voltage value of the buck converter. Fast charging has its own characteristic, obviously, the charging rate that is greater than the usual charging method, which is up to 1C of the battery capacity. The principle of fast charging in this study uses the constant current / constant voltage method. This converter is designed with the ability to produce current by the charging rate of 1C from a 12Ah battery capacity of 12 A and an output voltage of 16.8 V. To ensure that the output of the converter matches the setpoint, the duty cycle value is adjusted using fuzzy control. Based on the results obtained from the simulation, the control of this study obtained an output current 12  Amperes with error ripple current around 8.3%. The SOC on this battery increased by 75.74% in 45 minutes.
Estimation of State of Charge (SoC) Using Modified Coulomb Counting Method With Open Circuit Compensation For Battery Management System (BMS)
Authors: Ningrum Puspita , Windarko Novie Ayub , Suhariningsih Suhariningsih
Published: April 2021

Abstract— Battery is one of the important components in the development of renewable energy technology. This paper presents a method for estimating the State of Charge (SoC) for a 4Ah Li-ion battery. State of Charge (SoC) is the status of the capacity in the battery in the form of a percentage which makes it easier to monitor the battery during use. Coulomb calculations are widely used, but this method still contains errors during integration. In this paper, SoC measurement using Open Circuit Voltage Compensation is used for the determination of the initial SoC, so that the initial SoC reading is more precise, because if the initial SoC reading only uses a voltage sensor, the initial SoC reading is less precise which affects the next n second SoC reading. In this paper, we present a battery management system design or commonly known as BMS (Battery Management System) which focuses on the monitoring function. BMS uses a voltage sensor in the form of a voltage divider circuit and an ACS 712 current sensor to send information about the battery condition to the microcontroller as the control center. Besides, BMS is equipped with a protection relay to protect the battery. The estimation results of the 12volt 4Ah Li-ion battery SoC with the actual reading show an error of less than 1%.Keywords—Battery Management System, Modified Coulomb Counting, State of Charge.
PI Fuzzy Controller of Synchronous Boost Converter for Drug Storage Thermoelectric Cooler
Authors: Ramadhan Alvin Noer , Windarko Novie Ayub , Irianto Irianto
Published: April 2021

Medicines should be stored in a room at a suitable temperature if the inappropriate affect the quality of the drug. Therefore we need a control that can control the temperature in the room so that it is constant in accordance with the rules for room temperature in drug storage, which is 25 degrees Celsius. The following paperwork presents a simulation controller between PI controller and PI-Fuzzy logic controller in adjusting the voltage to match the set of point. Where the fuzzy logic controller automatically searches for the Kp value so that the voltage output of the converter match the desired set of point. Then the converter used is synchronoust boost converter as voltage regulator and peltier as a DC load which functions as a cooler. in this research, the system using  PI controller was able to adjust the voltage to match the set point with Kp is 0.14089 and Ki is 124.6738 then settling time is 0.016 s. While the system using PI-Fuzzy logic controller,it was able to adjust the voltage to match the set point with Kp is 0.08112 and Ki is 125.6738 then settling time is 0.014 s.
First-time mothers' experiences of the first stage of labour in hospitals in the HhoHho region, Eswatini
Authors: Mamba Nonhlahla , Tagutanazvo Oslinah B
Published: April 2021

Background/Aims

Women have different and varying experiences of labour and their coping strategies vary as well. Having support during labour may help women feel in control of their labour. This study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of first-time mothers during the first stage of labour.

Methods

The study used a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive design. A purposive sample of nine first-time postpartum mothers were selected to participate following normal vaginal delivery at Mbabane Government Hospital. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews and analysed thematically. Open coding was used to analyse data.

Results

Four themes emerged: 1. Ignorance of the signs of labour 2. Anxiety related to fear 3. Maintaining adequate nutrition 4. Coping with labour pains. Each theme had several subcategories. Most participants were ignorant of the signs of labour and reported anxiety related to fear of the unknown and practiced different ways of coping with labour pains.

Conclusions

First-time mothers require adequate preparation for labour, as many women in this study were ignorant of the signs of labour and reported anxiety related to fear of the unknown. Pregnant women should be educated about the physiological aspects of the first stage of labour and oriented in the labour ward during the prenatal period.
Knowledge and correlates of using a partograph for labour monitoring among primary healthcare workers in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Onunwa Oswald Zion N , Emikpe Abigael Omowumi , Akinyele Oluwatoyin A , Ayannusi Roseline O , Olawode Moses Oluleye , Obembe Taiwo A
Published: April 2021

Background

The partograph is a graphic record of labour progress, and maternal and fetal condition, which was introduced to detect preventable maternal complications during parturition. It is plotted against time for intrapartum monitoring. There is a difference in how widely the modified partograph is used to monitor labour among health workers in primary healthcare across different countries, according to the World Health Organization. This study assessed primary healthcare workers' knowledge of how to use the partograph for labour monitoring in Ibadan, Nigeria.

Methods

The study used a cross-sectional descriptive survey to recruit 136 purposively selected respondents. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered for data collection. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23. Hypotheses were tested using the Chi-square test and logistic regression at P<0.05 significance.

Results

The majority of respondents reportedly had good knowledge of how to use the partograph (72%) but did not use it when monitoring labour (82.4%). The odds of using a partograph was four times more likely in participants with good knowledge (odds ratio=3.61, P<0.000).

Conclusions

There is a need for collaboration across all tiers of government with the National Primary Health Development Agency to develop and implement health policies that will encourage the utilisation of a partograph for monitoring labour.