bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feeding habits of the spotted rose snapper, Lutjanus guttatus, (Actinopterygii, Perciformes, Lutjanidae), in the central Gulf of California, BCS, Mexico
Authors: Valle-Lopez Filius L. , Moreno-Sánchez Xchel G. , Irigoyen-Arredondo Marina S. , Abitia-Cárdenas Leonardo A. , Marín-Enríquez Emigdio , Ramírez-Pérez Jorge S.
Published: April 2021

The spotted rose snapper,Lutjanus guttatus(Steindachner, 1869), is an important resource for the coastal fisheries of the Gulf of California, mainly due to its high commercial value. Despite this, there are no management measures for this species, owing in part to a lack of information on its basic biology and its trophic ecology in the area. In this context, the presently reported study had as objective to describe the feeding habits ofL. guttatusthrough stomach content analyses, as well as to describe possible changes linked to sex, size, and season. Specimens were caught monthly from June 2016 to September 2017 with gillnets in Santa Rosalía, BCS, Mexico. The abundance, weight, and frequency of occurrence of each prey were assessed, and these parameters were integrated into the index of relative importance (%IRI) to determine the importance of each prey item in theL. guttatusdiet. The Levin’s index was used to assess the trophic niche width of the species, the feeding strategy was evaluated using Costello’s graphic method and the trophic level was calculated. Finally, to establish whether there were significant differences in the diet by sex, size, or season a PERMANOVA test was used with a 95% confidence level. A total of 202L. guttatusstomachs were analyzed, 191 of which contained food. A total of 26 prey items were identified. According to the %IRI, the most important prey were the teleost fishesHarengula thrissina(Jordan et Gilbert, 1882) (45.7%) andSardinops sagax(Jenyns, 1842) (34.8%), the euphausiidNyctiphanes simplex(13.4%), and the crustaceanPenaeusspp. (5.6%). The PERMANOVA analysis resulted in significant differences between the analyzed categories; however, there were no significant differences in the interactions among the categories. According to Levin’s index,L. guttatushad a narrow trophic width, with changes in the main prey consumed by the different categories. According to our results,L. guttatuscan be considered a benthopelagic opportunistic carnivorous predator with a narrow trophic niche, presenting mostly quantitative variations in its diet according to sex, size, and season. Its trophic plasticity allows it to take advantage of the most available and abundant food resources.
Evaluating the size at sexual maturity for 20 fish species (Actinopterygii) in wetland (Gajner Beel) ecosystem, north-western Bangladesh through multi-model approach: A key for sound management
Authors: Hasan Md. Rabiul , Hossain Md. Yeamin , Mawa Zannatul , Tanjin Sumaya , Rahman Md. Ashekur , Sarkar Uttam Kumar , Ohtomi Jun
Published: April 2021

Effective fisheries management depend on having an exact assessment of biological parameters, including growth parameters, reproduction, size at sexual maturity (Lm), and stock assessment. The purpose of this research was to estimate the size at sexual maturity (Lm) for 20 fish species belongs to 14 families from a wetland (Gajner Beel) ecosystem in the north-western (NW) Bangladesh through multi-models such as length (Lmax) based empirical model, gonadosomatic index (GSI)-based model, and logistic model using commercial catches from January to December 2018. Also, we assessed the Lm in other water-bodies worldwide. Specimens’ total length (TL) was noted up to 0.1 cm using measuring board body weight (BW) and gonad weight (GW) weighed by digital electronic balance with 0.01 g accuracy. To assess the Lm, maximum body length (Lmax) based empirical model; the relation between TL (total length in cm) vs. GSI (gonadosomatic index in %); and a logistic model were considered. The minimum Lm was 4.64, 3.90, and 4.15 cm for Chanda nama Hamilton, 1822 and the maximum was 25.33, 24.50, and 24.70 cm for Channa striata (Bloch, 1793) through Lmax, GSI, and logistic-based models, respectively. From these three models, the minimum mean Lm was 4.23 cm for C. nama and the maximum was 24.84 cm for C. striata. The Lm with 50.0% species was in 8.80 cm TL. We also calculated the Lm from different bodies of water based on Lmax. This study was generated data of 17 new Lm among 20 species, which are globally absent. Therefore, the study will help develop sustainable management strategies, conservation through the implementation of mesh size based on the size at sexual maturity (Lm).
A new species, a new combination, and a new record of Crossotarsus Chapuis, 1865 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Platypodinae) from China
Authors: Lai Shengchang , Zhang Ling , Li You , Wang Jianguo
Published: April 2021

This study describes a new species, Crossotarsus beaveri Lai & Wang, sp. nov., designates a new combination, C. brevis (Browne, 1975, comb. nov. from Platypus Herbst, 1793), and notes a new record, C. emorsus Beeson, 1937, from China. Genetic data from four genes indicate that the new species and C. brevis form a clade clustered with other Crossotarsus species. Molecular phylogeny and morphological characters support their taxonomic placement.
« Monter à la confédération »
Authors: Boulland Paul , Simonpoli Nicolas
Published: April 2021

En comparant la manière dont se construisent les carrières des permanents de la CGT et de la CFDT, cet article s’intéresse au travail institutionnel de codification des déplacements professionnels des cadres syndicaux. Il signale combien les mobilités de ces derniers s’inscrivent dans des circuits préétablis, objets de tensions et de négociations au sein des appareils militants. Il démontre également le caractère hybride des registres de promotion offerts aux syndicalistes, appuyés sur l’entremêlement de rétributions matérielles et symboliques. L’article rappelle ainsi l’importance à accorder aux dimensions symboliques – souvent invisibles – des mobilités professionnelles.
Entre le transnational et le local Transversalités et spécificités du partenariat éducatif à Genève
Authors: Rufin Diane
Published: April 2021

À partir du cas genevois, cet article vise à étudier la coloration singulière du partenariat éducatif qui prend place entre des transversalités transnationales et des spécificités locales. Dans un premier temps, la présentation du contexte, de la genèse et de l’évolution du partenariat éducatif montre que des éléments politiques, culturels ou historiques teintent son développement. Dans un second temps, le partenariat éducatif est décliné à trois niveaux de l’action éducative pour l’enseignement primaire (politico-institutionnel, établissements, enseignants). Le cas genevois apparaît au final singulier : la collaboration entre l’école et les services médico-pédagogiques y est ancienne, tandis que l’injonction récente au partenariat déstabilise les contours professionnels. Une constante demeure toutefois, autour d’une conception psycho-médicale des difficultés de l’élève et de leurs modes de résolution, interrogeant plus fondamentalement la spécificité de l’acte d’enseigner.
Sistema Prefabricado de Ecofachada Termoaislante para el Mejoramiento de Viviendas Sociales Construidas en la Zona Árida Centro Oeste de Argentina
Authors: Buigues Nollens Arturo Florentino
Published: April 2021

En este trabajo se desarrolla un Sistema Prefabricado de Ecofachada Termoaislante Sustentable-SPETS, para el mejoramiento del confort interior de Viviendas Sociales Construidas-VSC, en el clima árido de San Juan, Argentina. La metodología considera estudios teóricos y prácticos, sobre las cualidades termofísicas de fachadas opacas del Barrio Aramburu, cumplimiento a Normativas, junto a una propuesta alternativa con componentes estructurales móviles y desarmables incluyendo pomeca puzolánica, como material regional termoaislante ignífugo con origen volcánico. Los resultados obtenidos en el laboratorio IMA-FI-UNSJ, durante las campañas representativas de mediciones invernales, verificaron con el SPETS-sin ventilar una variación entre exterior e interior de 18ºC (4.12ºC Capa Externa y 22.15ºC Revoque Interno), y en verano con casi 47°C con el SPETS-ventilado se produjeron diferencias de la capa externa y el revoque externo sin ventilar de hasta 15,5ºC. El SPETS contribuye eficientemente al confort térmico y ambiental con cumplimiento a las Normas Nacionales de Reciclado.
Análisis de la primera colaboración público-privada en asistencia maternal en atención primaria y especializada en España: una aplicación del análisis de redes sociales
Authors: Camacho Morell Francisca , Esparcia Pérez Javier
Published: April 2021

El Hospital Universitario de La Ribera (Alzira, Valencia) fue la primera experiencia de colaboración público-privada en el Sistema Nacional de Salud español. Además de la necesidad de coordinar dos niveles de atención sanitaria (primaria/especializada) hubo que coordinar dos modelos de gestión de recursos humanos (público/privado). Para ejemplificar esta complejidad, se toma el colectivo de matronas del área de salud, analizando sus pautas relacionales mediante la aproximación metodológica del Análisis de Redes Sociales. En cuanto a resultados, de una población de 31 matronas, las del modelo público ocupan posiciones periféricas y cooperan poco, tanto interna como externamente. Las del modelo privado constituyen un subgrupo cohesivo, que supone tanto una fortaleza como una debilidad. Las matronas de Atención Primaria y modelo privado constituyen puentes entre subgrupos. Por tanto, la presencia de dos modelos de gestión condiciona la eficiencia de la atención maternal más que la división de la atención en dos niveles.
Tipologías basadas en la adhesión a los mitos sobre la violencia de género: Evidencias de un análisis de clases latentes
Authors: León Carmen M.ª , Aizpurúa Eva
Published: April 2021

Los mitos sobre la violencia de género favorecen la persistencia del maltrato al actuar como elementos justificativos de las agresiones. El presente trabajo contribuye a la escasa evidencia acumulada al emplear un análisis de clases latentes (ACL) para estudiar tipologías de personas basadas en la adhesión a diez mitos y creencias sobre la violencia de género y examinar las características que definen a cada una de las clases. Para ello, se contó con una muestra compuesta por 1.007 personas (51,1 % mujeres y 48,9 % hombres; M = 45,37 años). Los resultados muestran un patrón de tres clases latentes: adhesión baja (n = 663; 65,8 %), adhesión moderada (n = 113; 11,2 %) y adhesión alta (n = 231; 22,9 %). Los grupos presentan diferencias cuantitativas y cualitativas en su composición y la pertenencia a las clases con mayor aceptación de mitos se relaciona con actitudes más sexistas.
Antimicrobial Effect of Piper betle Leaves Extract on Cotton Fabrics for Vaginal Discharge Sanitary Napkins
Authors: Gustiani Srie , Septiani Wulan , Kasipah Cica , Sukardan Danny , Helmy Qomarudin
Published: April 2021

The betel (Piperbetle) leaves have been using for traditional medicine in several tropical countries, like Indonesia. The betel leaves have the antimicrobial property for inhibiting the growth of microbes. In this study, cotton fabric was treated with the betel leaves extract 1, 5 and 10 g/l. The peper betel leaves are extracted by using boiling water up to half. The betel leaf extract was imparted onto the cotton fabrics for underclothes apparel using a pad-dry-cure. The antimicrobial activity property of treat cotton fabrics was assessed (Escherchiacoli,Staphylococcusaureus,Lactobacillus acidophilus,Candida albicansAATCC 100-2004). The piper betle extract more effective to inhibit the growth ofCandidaAlbicansthanEscherchiacoli,Staphylococcusaureus.Lactobacillus acidophilusas a good bacteria around the vagina, can still grow. From the result of this study, betel leaf is an antiseptic, then can be used in preventing vaginal discharge. The durability of the betel leaf extract on the cotton fabric did not decrease significantly after washing 15 times using Lounder O’meter machine washing. The excellent performance of antimicrobial on the fabrics can keep clean and can help the vaginal area keep clean, odorless, and is expected to prevent vaginal discharge.
A Study of Isotherm and Kinetic Models of Methylene Blue and Methyl Orange Adsorption Using Indonesian Natural Zeolite and Agricultural Waste
Authors: Purbaningtias Tri Esti , Wiyantoko Bayu , Kurniawati Puji , Prasetyoko Didik
Published: April 2021

This study discusses the development of Indonesian natural zeolite and agricultural waste i.e bagasse ash and rice husk ash as natural adsorbents. These materials were used as an adsorbent for methyl orange and methylene blue adsorption for isotherm and kinetic study. Adsorption kinetic models for methyl orange and methylene blue with all adsorbents were a pseudo-second-order except methyl orange adsorption with bagasse ash adsorbent (MA) that followed pseudo-first-order. Isotherm models for all adsorption experiments were Langmuir type except methyl orange adsorption using rice husk adsorbent (MS) that followed Freundlich type.
An Analytical Study to Compare the Heat Transfer Performances of Water-Based TiO2, SiO2, TiC and SiC Nanofluids
Authors: Arafat Md Yeashir , Chakraborty Shashwata
Published: April 2021

The thermophysical properties as well as the thermal performance of a nanofluid can be altered upon varying the nanoparticle type and/or nanoparticle volume concentration. Herein, the effects of variable nanoparticle concentration on water-based TiO2, SiO2, TiC, and SiC nanofluids have been studied analytically. The dispersion effects of 1-4% nanoparticle on the single-phase forced convection heat transfer performance of the nanofluids have been investigated. The effective thermophysical properties of the nanofluids are determined adopting the general correlations. The flow velocities of the nanofluids relative to their base fluids are assumed to be constant. Mouromtseff number has been employed as a convenient figure of merit to compare the nanofluids under fully developed internal laminar and turbulent flow conditions. The results indicate an increase in effective density, thermal conductivity, and dynamic viscosity of the nanofluids. Nanofluids containing carbide suspensions exhibit superior heat transfer properties compared to those having oxide suspensions.
MHD and Stability for Convective Flow of Micropolar Nanofluid over a Moving and Vertical Permeable Plate
Authors: Alouaoui Reda , Ferhat Samira , Bouaziz M.N.
Published: April 2021

This work mainly studies the effect of the magnetic field, the suction /injection, the Brownian and thermphorese diffusions and the stability on heat transfer in a laminar boundary layer flux of micropolar nanofluids flow adjacent to moving vertical permeable plate. The appropriate governing equations developed are reduced by the transformation of similarity which are solved using the finite difference method that implements the 3-stage Lobatto collocation formula. A parametric study of the physical parameters is carried out to show their influence on the different profiles. The results show that the microrotation of the suspended nanoparticles and the presence of the magnetic field become important on the heat transfer with good chemical stability of the micropolar nanofluids.
Effects of Plasticizers on Mechanical Properties, Oxygen Permeability, and Microstructural Characteristics of HPMC/Beeswax Composite Film
Authors: Nguyen Thi Luong , Nguyen Pham Khanh Van , Nguyen Hoc Thang , Nguyen Van Khoi , Pham Thi Thu Ha , Nguyen Thanh Tung
Published: April 2021

The ability to plasticize Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose/Beeswax (HPMC/BW) composites depends on plasticizers and their concentration. This paper conducted studying on the impacts of plasticizers to HPMC/BW properties. The plasticizers were used in this research included Glycerol (G), Propylene Glycol (PG), and Polyethylene Glycol 400 (PEG 400) which had the concentration changed in range of 1-3%. HPMC/BW composite films incorporated with 2% of plasticizers formed films with the best characteristics among three tested concentration. Tensile strength and elastic modulus of films were decreased when adding plasticizers, whereas elongation at break were increased. Therefore, it caused an increase in oxygen permeability of HPMC/BW films in comparison with the control film. However, Glycerol showed the lowest Oxygen Permeability (OP) values compared to other composite films. The films were evaluated its microstructural quality using method of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) which had the effects of plasticizers and their efficiencies of plasticizing polymer networks.
Microleakage of different temporary luting agents used for cementing provisional restorations on custom cast posts and cores
Authors: Mohajerfar Maryam , Nouri Naeemeh Nikfarjam , Hooshmand Tabasom , Beyabanaki Elaheh
Published: April 2021

Background:

This study aimed to compare the effect of four temporary luting agents on preventing the coronal microleakage of teeth restored with custom cast post and core.

Materials and Methods:

In this in vitro original study, after removing 9 mm of gutta percha from root canals of 32 single-canaled premolars, the acrylic resin patterns of the post and core were fabricated. Patterns were cast with Ni-Cr metal alloy and then cemented with glass ionomer. Using self-curing acrylic resin, provisional restorations were made. Then, teeth were randomly allocated to four groups for each temporary cement including zinc oxide eugenol (Temp Bond), zinc oxide noneugenol (Temp Bond NE), noneugenol resin-based temporary luting agent (Temp Bond Clear), and noneugenol urethane methacrylate polymer-based temporary luting agent (Dento temp). Teeth were subjected to thermocycling, immersed in silver nitrate for 6 h and then sectioned. The amount of dye penetration in the margin of provisional crown and into the coronal part of the root canals was measured using a stereomicroscope. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn tests with significance level of 0.05.

Results:

All the luting agents showed some degree of microleakage (Group 1 showed the most microleakage). According to the pair comparison between the groups, Group 1 revealed a significant difference with others (P < 0.05). Furthermore, Group 2 showed more microleakage as compared to Group 4 (P = 0.037).

Conclusion:

Temp Bond showed the highest microleakage as compared to other luting agents. Furthermore, Temp Bond NE revealed a weaker sealability as compared to Dento temp.
Utilization of dental care in Iranian pregnant women
Authors: Rahebi Donya , Valadbeigi Tannaz , Hasani Jalil , Hajipour Mahmoud , Erfanpoor Saeed , Etemad Koorosh , Yaghoobi Halime , Zolfizadeh Fatemeh , Esmaeilzadeh Firooz , Gholami Ali , Rajabi Abdolhalim
Published: April 2021

Background:

Although dental care attendance during pregnancy has been recommended by guidelines and institutions, the demand for dental services is still low among pregnant women. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of not receipt dental care and also determinants of that during pregnancy.

Materials and Methods:

This population-based study was conducted on 4071 mothers in 10 provinces of Iran, during 2014–2015. We calculated the prevalence of not receipt of dental care, and reasons for nonreceipt of care. We used logistic regression to estimate odds of nonreceipt of care by demographics variables. In the analyses, the level of statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results:

Overall, 54.70% of women had no dental visit during pregnancy. In mothers who had a history of stillbirth, neonatal death and live birth, the prevalence of not receipt dental care during pregnancy were 54.56%, 48.92%, and 58.76%, respectively. The logistic regression analyses showed that parity second-to-fourth birth than first birth (odds ratio [OR] 1.37 confidence interval [CI] 95% 1.17–1.59, residence in rural (OR 1.68 CI 95% 1.45–1.95), and not intended pregnancy (OR 1.32 CI 95% 1.03–1.68) associated with not received dental care during pregnancy.

Conclusion:

Most pregnant women in this study received insufficient dental care. The need for dental care during pregnancy must be promoted widely among women of reproductive age, and family barriers to dental care should be addressed.
Evidence-Based Discriminant Analysis
Authors: Tripathi Chandra Bhushan , Gangania Mohit , Kushwaha Suman , Agarwal Rachna
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder. Neurochemical studies have implicated metals in pathogenesis of PD.

Objectives:

To examine the association of serum iron, transferrin, ferritin, transferrin saturation and UIBC in PD patients and to derive the Discrimination Function with scores of these variables to correctly classify PD cases and healthy controls.

Methods:

In the present study, identification of biomarker pool in case-control study involving 79 PD cases and 80 healthy controls were performed.

Results:

The results of independent t-test analysis showed that PD cases presented significantly higher (P < 0.01) level of transferrin, total iron binding capacity (TIBC), unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC) and urea than controls. As only one-third of transferrin is saturated with iron, so the transferrin present in serum has the extra binding capacity (67%), this is called UIBC. Discriminant analysis was performed to determine the factors that best discriminate between the categories of an outcome variables (Disease status = PD and Control) and total of five biochemical independent variables (UIBC, transferrin, iron, transferrin saturation, and copper) were taken into consideration. UIBC has emerged out to be highest discriminating, powerful and independent variable among considered independent variables, which indicates iron deficiency. After development of Discriminant Function (Z) and calculation of discriminant function cut points, a cross-validation analysis of PD cases and controls were conducted. The sensitivity of the developed model was 98.73% and specificity 83.75%. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) was plotted, and the findings of ROC curve corroborated with the results obtained from discriminant function analysis.

Conclusion:

Prospective validation of Discriminant model in large cohort is warranted in future studies.
Managing Lymphedema, Increasing Range of Motion, and Quality of Life through Yoga Therapy among Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Saraswathi Vasudevan , Latha Satish , Niraimathi K. , Vidhubala Elangovan
Published: April 2021

Lymphedema is a common complication of breast cancer treatment. Yoga is a nonconventional and noninvasive intervention that is reported to show beneficial effects in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). This study attempted to systematically review the effect of yoga therapy on managing lymphedema, increasing the range of motion (ROM), and quality of life (QOL) among breast cancer survivors. The review search included studies from electronic bibliographic databases, namely Medline (PubMed), Embase, and Google Scholar till June 2019. Studies which assessed the outcome variables such as QOL and management of lymphedema or related physical symptoms as effect of yoga intervention were considered for review. Two authors individually reviewed, selected according to Cochrane guidelines, and extracted the articles using Covidence software. Screening process of this review resulted in a total of seven studies. The different styles of yoga employed in the studies were Iyengar yoga (n = 2), Satyananda yoga (n = 2), Hatha yoga (n = 2), and Ashtanga yoga (n = 1). The length of intervention and post intervention analysis ranged from 8 weeks to 12 months. Four studies included home practice sessions. QOL, ROM, and musculoskeletal symptoms showed improvement in all the studies. Yoga could be a safe and feasible exercise intervention for BCRL patients. Evidence generated from these studies was of moderate strength. Further long-term clinical trials with large sample size are essential for the development and standardization of yoga intervention guidelines for BCRL patients.
Morphometric Study of the Knee Joint in Saudi Arabian Population Based on Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scan
Authors: Alharbi Daifallah , Ahmed Zaheer
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is considered a highly recommended procedure, to improve the life of patients suffering from knee arthritis by relieving pain and deformity. Knee morphology and anthropomorphic features have evolved as the most reliable source of information to design TKA prostheses. But unfortunately, the amorphic features of Western patients are the preferred choice of data for the development of suitable implants. This study is conducted for commencing to evaluate the geometric parameters of the knee joints of Saudi Arabian male and female subjects which is indispensable to the design of knee prosthesis used for compatriotic patients.

Material and Methods:

A total of 13 parameters of tibia and femur were studied in a group of 150 normal subjects including 110 females and 40 males. A subsequent magnetic resonance imaging scan was done for all the studied cases and a reproducible result was obtained.

Results:

The Saudi females were found to have smaller dimensions of parameters of tibia and femur than those in Saudi males. The results when compared with other reports from different countries, we find marked difference in their dimensions.

Discussion and Conclusion:

Our study suggests that there exists a morphological mismatch between the knee anatomy of people of Saudi Arabia and people of other countries. Implantation of such implants prepared on the basis of outsider data could not justified to use in the Saudi population.
Sheath of Distal Tendon of Semimembranosus Muscle and it's Functional Significance
Authors: Joshi Subhash D. , Joshi Sharda S. , Valimbe Namrata
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

Semimembranosus (SM) muscle is important in maintaining the stability of knee joint, and the distal end of it's tendon is not only complex but has been described differently in the available literature, which is quite perplexing. How a muscle with such divergent attachments can efficiently perform it's functions? Hence a detailed study of the distal semimembranosus tendon unit was undertaken.

Material and Methods:

One hundred lower limbs (Rt-50; lt.-50) were utilized for the present study. The posterior surface of SM was exposed and as the main tendon could not be traced to its insertion hence a vertical incision was made on the posterior surface of this tendon and this lead to the splitting of the tendon-sheath which exposed the thick shining distal tendon of SM.

Results:

Surprisingly, it was found that the main tendon of the SM (SMT) was surrounded by a fibrous sheath which was derived from the main muscle mass in the lower part of the thigh and in the majority of cases it was separated from it by a synovial space. Traced inferiorly it was observed that it is the sheath that spreads out to various divergent destinations described in the literature, whereas the main tendon gets attached to the groove on the posterior aspect of the medial condyle of tibia and a rough triangular area below the groove.

Discussion and Conclusion:

It is the nature's ingenuity that a single muscle with such divergent distal attachments can still efficiently perform its functions due to the formation of a sheath of distal tendon of SM.
Incidentally Detected Anomalous Pectoralis Major Muscle During Reconstruction of Oral Cavity Cancer
Authors: Jena Amitabh , Reddy Gajjala Sivanath , Patnayak Rashmi , Settipalli Sarla
Published: April 2021

The congenital deficiency of pectoralis major muscle is quite uncommon. Only a few cases are described in the literature that too in cadavers. Recently, we came across a case of deficient pectoralis major while harvesting pectoralis major myocutaneous (PMMC) flap for reconstruction following right composite resection for carcinoma of the right buccal mucosa in a 50-year-old female. The external appearance of the anterior chest wall was normal. During surgery, we found that the clavicular head and sternal portion of the sternocostal head of the right pectoralis major muscle were absent and the costal portion of the sternocostal head was deficient over the medial aspect. A normal pectoralis minor was present. This deficiency may be congenital in nature. We present this case to highlight this uncommon condition, and this may be the only case report till now wherein deficient pectoralis major was used for PMMC flap reconstruction of oral cavity defect.
Successful management of an aorto-esophageal fistula following button battery ingestion
Authors: Wakimoto Mayuko , Willer Brittany L. , Mckee Christopher , Nafiu Olubukola O. , Tobias Joseph D.
Published: April 2021

Foreign body ingestion is a common event among pediatric patients, especially in children less than 6 years of age. Although most cases are relatively benign, with the foreign body passing spontaneously or requiring a brief endoscopic procedure for removal, button battery ingestion is known to cause significant morbidity with the potential for mortality. Although aorto-esophageal fistula (AEF) is a rare complication following button battery ingestion, its clinical manifestations are significant and outcomes are poor. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are key in preventing fatal complications. We describe the successful management of an AEF which presented with hematemesis 8 days after removal of a button battery in a 17-month-old female. The literature regarding button battery ingestion and AEF is reviewed and treatment options including intraoperative anesthetic care discussed.
Comparison of Mc Grath-MAC and C-MAC video laryngoscopes for intubation in a COVID simulated mannequin by novice users wearing face protective gear
Authors: Vig Saurabh , Bhan Swati , Gupta Nishkarsh , Meena Jitendra Kumar , Bhatnagar Sushma
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

Intubation in COVID patients is challenging. Various guidelines suggest the use of video-laryngoscope (VL) as the first device to aid intubation in a COVID patient. The best VL to facilitate intubation in such a setting especially by novices is not ascertained. We compared intubation characteristics by two VL's (McGrath-MAC and C-MAC) for intubation in a COVID simulated mannequin by novices.

Methodology:

This prospective randomized manikin-based crossover study was done in thirty medical professionals with no previous experience of intubation with VL. All participants were trained on Laerdel airway management trainer and were allowed 5 practice sessions with each scope with an intubation box while wearing face protective personal protective equipment (PPE). Participants were randomized into two groups of 15 each, one group performed the intubation first with McGrath and the other with C-MAC before crossing over.

Results:

The mean (S. D.) time to intubation was similar with both McGrath-VL and CMAC VL [31.33 (14.72) s vs 26.47 (8.5) s, P = (p-0.063)]. POGO score [mean (S. D.)] was better with CMAC [81.33 (16.24) vs 60.33 (14.73), p-0.00. The majority of the users preferred C-MAC VL for intubation (93.33%). The incidence of failed intubation and multiple attempts at intubating were similar with the two scopes.

Conclusion:

The time to intubation was similar with both VL's but the majority of novices preferred CMAC probably due to a bigger screen that helped them to have a better view of glottis in the COVID simulated mannequin.
Anesthesia for left ventricular assisted device insertion in a patient with multiple organ failure
Authors: Ma WWZ , Suhitharan T , Shah SS , Kothandan H
Published: April 2021

Technological advances in mechanical circulatory support have enabled more patients with end-stage heart failure to benefit from left ventricular assist devices (LVAD). Indications for LVAD implantation have evolved to include patients who are deemed unsuitable for cardiac transplantation, otherwise known as destination therapy. This case report describes such patient with multi-organ failure who underwent LVAD insertion after nine days of extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation, intra-aortic balloon pump and maximal inotropic support. Strategies for perioperative management, as well as intra-operative monitoring and interventions are discussed.
A scoping review of retracted publications in anesthesiology
Authors: Fiore Marco , Alfieri Aniello , Pace Maria Caterina , Simeon Vittorio , Chiodini Paolo , Leone Sebastiano , Wirz Stefan , Cuomo Arturo , Stoia Vincenzo , Cascella Marco
Published: April 2021

Context:

Fraudulent publication is a scourge of scientific research.

Objectives:

This scoping review was aimed at characterizing retracted publications for fraud or plagiarism in the field of anesthesia. Does the reputation of the journal (Quartile and Impact Factor, IF) protect the reader from the risk of having the manuscript he read withdrawn for fraud/plagiarism?

Methods/Design:

This scoping review was planned following the Joanna Briggs Institute recommendations. Data sources: PubMed and the Retraction Watch Database (http://retractiondatabase.org/RetractionSearch.aspx?). Study selection: All types of publications retracted. Data extraction: Year, first author nationality, journal name, journal category, IF, Quartile, H index. Data analysis: The association with Quartile and IF was investigated.

Results:

No significant association between retraction of papers published in no-Quartile journals and retractions published in journals placed in the highest quartile.

Conclusions:

The quality of the surveillance in paper submission is not higher in journals of the first Quartile than in journals not placed in other Quartiles. (The protocol was prospectively registered in the Open Science Framework https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/TGKNE)
Spontaneous pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Wadhawa Reema , Thakkar Avani , Chhanwal Heena Sunil , Bhalotra Anju , Rana Yashpal , Wadhawa Vivek
Published: April 2021

Background:

Coronavirus disease 2019 is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome virus coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2). Many aspects of its pathology and pathogenesis are not well understood.

Material and Methods:

We describe a series of spontaneous air leak cases we found in our coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) positive 1086-patient cohort.

Results:

Two out of six patients eventually required mechanical ventilation and succumbed to COVID-19. We presume that acute lung injury leading to SARS-CoV-2 with associated acute respiratory distress syndrome predisposes patients to this complication.

Conclusion:

This series is presented to highlight the emerging association of COVID-19 with spontaneous air leaks leading to pneumomediastinum, pneumothorax, and subsequent subcutaneous emphysema even in patients who have never received invasive mechanical ventilation and this may be more likely with the institution of high flow nasal cannula.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy surgery
Authors: Bellas José J. Arcas , Sánchez Cristina , González Ana , Forteza Alberto , López Verónica , Fernández Javier García
Published: April 2021

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HOCM) is the most common genetic heart disorder and the most common cause of sudden cardiac death among young population and a major cause of disability for patients of any age. An extended transaortic septal myectomy is the definitive treatment. It is very important to have a good knowledge of the characteristic pathophysiology of the disease in order to optimize intraoperative treatment of these patients. We present a case of a 68-year old woman who underwent hypertrophic elective cardiomyopathy surgery. Anesthetic management is crucial to guarantee maximum safety, since HOCM has the capacity to produce hemodynamic events of such severity that put patient's life at risk. The use and combination of intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and direct measurement of the left ventricular outflow tract gradient provides vital information to ensure successful surgical outcome in patients with HOCM.
Influencing factors of early cognitive deficits after ambulatory anesthesia
Authors: Metterlein Thomas , Wobbe Thomas , Brede Elmar-Marc , Vogtner Andreas , Krannich Jens , Eichelbrönner Otto , Broscheit Jens
Published: April 2021

Background:

Anesthesia has an influence on early postoperative cognitive function. This is specifically relevant in ambulatory surgery. At discharge, patients must return to their normal life and manage simple tasks. Goal was to detect influencing factors of early postoperative cognitive dysfunction after ambulatory anesthesia.

Methods:

With approval of the local ethics committee, 102 individuals scheduled for ambulatory anesthesia were examined with a specific test battery. Cued and uncued reaction time, divided and selective attention were tested prior to anesthesia and at the time of discharge. Differences between the two examinations and potential influencing factors including age, premedication, type and duration of anesthesia were evaluated with the Student t-test and linear regression. P < 0.05 considered significant.

Results:

In all, 86 individuals completed the study. Both reaction times were reduced after anesthesia compared to before. No differences were seen for divided and selective attention. Age influenced on the post-anesthesia reaction time while all other factors did not.

Conclusion:

Reaction time but not attention as more complex cognitive function is influenced by anesthesia. Age seems to be an important factor in early postoperative cognitive dysfunction.
Review of lung ultrasound findings in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Authors: Ravikanth Reddy
Published: April 2021

As of 22 April 2020, there are 6 countries with >100,000 cases, 21 countries with 1000 to 10,000 confirmed cases and 53 countries with between 1000 and 10,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Six articles (5 research articles and 1 review article) with a total of 159 cases delineating the equipment, protocol, techniques, indications and follow-up management of COVID-19 were identified in a PUBMED search evaluating the role of lung Ultrasound. In the current review article, 55%-60% of the patients with COVID-19 were male; the median age has been reported between 34 and 59 years. Lung Ultrasound features of COVID-19 are related to the stage of the disease, the severity of lung injury, and comorbidities. This review article provides a summary of lung Ultrasound findings in COVID-19 and clinical guidance for the use and interpretation of lung ultrasound for patients with moderate, severe and critical COVID-19-related pulmonary syndrome.
Do information and communication technologies influence skills, competencies, health and well-being of teenagers? Current evidence
Authors: Lim Willone , Theng Lau Bee , Chua Caslon , Amirul Islam Fakir M
Published: April 2021

INTRODUCTION: Information and Communication Technologies are deemed to be a significant influence on teenagers’ development. It is important for studies to be conducted to assess the underlying influence of ICT on the teenager age group.OBJECTIVES: The aim of this paper is to review whether ICT influences teenagers’ skills, competencies, health and well-being based on previous studies.METHODS: Articles from 2015 to 2020 were selected for analysis to identify the influences on teenagers.RESULTS: Computer and mobile devices offer opportunities to improve literacy in digital skills and competencies. It is also evident that teenagers are prone to risks of getting musculoskeletal symptoms as a result of excessive use of such devices, and it also leads to unforeseen illnesses such as depression in the case of teenager’s well-being.CONCLUSION: Adopting ICT may have beneficial implications for teenagers, but it can pose more adverse effects on their development when used excessively.
A comparative study of two grading systems for epistaxis in hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia
Authors: Jorgensen O.J. , Steineger J. , Bachmann-Harildstad G. , Dheyauldeen S.
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND: Different institutions use different grading systems for hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT)-associated epistaxis. It is important to have a universal, standardized grading system to compare and evaluate the effectiveness of different treatment options. We introduced the “Intensity, Frequency and need for Blood Transfusion” (IFT) grading system for HHT-associated epistaxis in 2008. Hoag et al. proposed the “Epistaxis Severity Score” (ESS) for the International HHT foundation in 2010. This study aimed to evaluate the potential correlation between the ESS and IFT grading systems. METHODS: The study included 354 simultaneous reports using the IFT and ESS from 106 patients. The correlation between the ESS, IFT and haemoglobin levels was measured using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The ESS and IFT were scored simultaneously by the patient and doctor in 48 cases to evaluate if there was a discrepancy in the scoring applied by either set of responders. RESULTS: The measured correlation between the two grading systems was good (0.75). The grade of epistaxis reported by patients and doctors respectively showed no significant difference. Both the IFT and ESS grading systems correlate significantly to the haemoglobin level. CONCLUSIONS: Both the IFT and ESS scores correlate to each other, and their results are comparable. Whether the IFT or ESS scoring was performed by the patient or doctor had no significant impact.
Research on Automatic Joint Calibration Method of Multi 3D-LIDARs and Inertial Measurement Unit
Authors: Zhang Jinghua , He Rui , Wu Jian , Li Shuai , Chen Xuesong , Du Zhiqiang , Chen Guosheng , Chen Zhicheng
Published: April 2021

In the field of automatic driving, the combination of 3D LIDAR and inertial measurement unit (IMU) is a common sensor configuration scheme in laser point-cloud localization, high-precision map making and point-cloud target detection. So it is critical to calibrate LIDAR and IMU accurately. At present, due to the large volume and high cost of 3D LIDAR with high-line-number(Such as 64 lines or 128 lines), the configuration scheme of using multiple low-line-number 3D LIDARs appears in the automatic driving vehicle sensing system. However, the common calibration methods are not suitable for multi 3D LIDARs and IMU parameters calibration on autonomous vehicle, which have the disadvantages of cumbersome implementation and low accuracy. In this paper, a joint calibration test platform composed of dual LIDARs and IMU is assembled, and a method of precise automatic calibration based on GPS/RTK data is proposed. Firstly, the initial parameters of the main 3D LIDAR and IMU are obtained by hand-eye calibration method, and then the motion distortion of the point cloud are removed by using the pose information. After global and local optimization of nearest neighbor error, the conversion parameters from the main LIDAR to IMU are obtained. Then, the remaining LIDARs are calibrated with the main LIDAR by combining coarse registration and fine registration, and finally realize the automatic calibration of external parameters of the entire system. The experimental results show that the proposed method has high calibration accuracy for the system composed of multiple 3D LIDARs and IMU, and the calibration effect is stable.
Accurate Pressure Control Based on Driver Braking Intention Identification for a Novel Integrated Braking System
Authors: Zhu Bing , Zhang Yihan , Zhao Jian , Chen Zhicheng , Jin Wanli
Published: April 2021

With the development of intelligent and electric vehicles, higher requirements are put forward for the active braking and regenerative braking ability of the braking system. The traditional braking system equipped with vacuum booster has difficulty meeting the demand, therefore it has gradually been replaced by the integrated braking system. In this paper, a novel Integrated Braking System (IBS) is presented, which mainly contains a pedal feel simulator, a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), a series of transmission mechanisms, and the hydraulic control unit. As an integrative system of mechanics-electronics-hydraulics, the IBS has complex nonlinear characteristics, which challenge the accurate pressure control. Furthermore, it is a completely decoupled braking system, the pedal force doesn’t participate in pressure-building, so it is necessary to precisely identify driver’s braking intention. To improve the control accuracy of the system, this paper proposed a novel pressure control strategy based on driver braking intention identification. Firstly, the structure and working principle of the novel integrated braking system was introduced. Secondly, the driver's braking intention identification strategy was designed. Thirdly, Considering the nonlinear and dynamic characteristics of the system, a cascade closed-loop control strategy including a pressure loop by the feedforward-feedback method, a position loop by the sliding-mode control method, and current loop with friction compensation was proposed. Finally, based on dSPACE products, a hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) experimental bench was built for algorithm verification. The HiL experiment results show that the pressure control strategy has the advantages of accurate response, the braking system pressure follows the driver's expected pressure well.
Synthesis and Validation of Multidimensional Driving Cycles
Authors: Topić Jakov , Škugor Branimir , Deur Joško
Published: April 2021

Driving cycles are usually defined by vehicle speed as a function of time and they are typically used to estimate fuel consumption and pollutant emissions. Currently, certification driving cycles are mainly used for this purpose. Since they are artificially generated, the resulting estimates and analyzes can generally be biased. In order to address these shortcomings, recent research efforts have been directed towards development of statistically representative synthetic driving cycles derived from recorded real-world data. To this end, this paper focuses on synthesis of multidimensional driving cycles using the Markov chain-based method and particularly on their validation. The synthesis is based on Markov chain of fourth order, where the road slope is accounted, as well. The corresponding transition probability matrix is implemented in the form of a sparse matrix parameterized with a rich set of recorded city bus driving cycles. A wide collection of statistical features, including the frequency domain indicators, unique cross-correlation velocity-acceleration-slope indicators, and indicators related to bus stops at stations are considered for the purpose of driving cycle validation. To prove the synthesis method validity, a comparative statistical analysis of distributions of the nominated statistical features of synthetic and recorded driving cycles is carried out. Finally, a multi-criteria method of driving cycle validation based on lumped metrics is outlined and examined.