bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gestión del proceso posanalítico en los laboratorios clínicos según los requisitos de la norma ISO 15189:2012. Consideraciones sobre la revisión, notificación y comunicación de los resultados
Authors: López Yeste Ma Liboria , Izquierdo Álvarez Silvia , Pons Mas Antonia R. , Álvarez Domínguez Luisa , Blanco Font Aurora , Marqués García Fernando , Bernabeu Andreu Francisco A. , Rodríguez Ma Patrocinio Chueca , García Álvarez Ana , Contreras Sanfeliciano Teresa , Pascual Gómez Natalia , Sánchez Gancedo Lorena , Guiñón Muñoz Leonor
Published: September 2020

El objeto de este trabajo es establecer unas consideraciones para facilitar la gestión del proceso posanalítico respecto a la revisión, notificación y comunicación de los resultados, de acuerdo con los requisitos de la Norma UNE-EN ISO 15189:2013. El ámbito de aplicación incluye las actividades del proceso posanalítico del laboratorio clínico, así como el personal implicado en él (dirección y personal del laboratorio). Se indican los criterios y la información necesaria para realizar la revisión y validación de los resultados de las pruebas analíticas y así enviar a los destinatarios informes claros, asegurando siempre una transcripción fidedigna de los resultados e incluyendo toda la información necesaria para su correcta interpretación. Asimismo, se describen los requisitos para una correcta comunicación de los resultados del laboratorio, haciendo especial hincapié en la comunicación de aquellos resultados alarmantes o críticos. En algunos países de Europa es obligatoria la acreditación, total o parcial, de los laboratorios clínicos, siguiendo la Norma ISO 15189 y esta parece ser la hoja de ruta marcada en otros muchos países. Por ello, es indispensable la comprensión de sus requisitos para realizar una implementación progresiva y más fácil.
Bereit für die Digitalisierung der Energiewende: Praxistests zur Anbindung intelligenter Messsysteme bei der 50Hertz
Authors: Richter Marc , Naumann André , Schülke Roman , Rottmann Rico , Raak Thomas
Published: September 2020

Im Zuge der Digitalisierung der Energiewende sind bei der 50Hertz Transmission GmbH (50Hertz) die erforderlichen Systeme installiert worden, mit denen die Daten in der Marktrolle Übertragungsnetzbetreiber (ÜNB) erfasst und ausgewertet werden können. In Zusammenarbeit zwischen dem Fraunhofer IFF und der 50Hertz wurde untersucht, inwieweit die Systeme für das Datenaufkommen im Realbetrieb bereits vorbereitet sind. Innerhalb dieses Beitrags wird die Methodik zur Untersuchung vorgestellt. Hierbei wurden sowohl die Marktkommunikation 2020 (MaKo 2020) als auch die direkte Smart-Meter-Gateway-Kommunikation untersucht. Die Ergebnisse sowie erforderlichen Maßnahmen zur Anpassung der Systeme werden präsentiert.
Promoting positive washforward through personalised test feedback and other benefits: Piloting a computer-based testing system
Authors: Gandini Elena A. M. , Horák Tania
Published: September 2020

This contribution reports on the developing and piloting of a computer-based version of the test of English as a foreign language produced by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), where it is currently used for the admission of international students and the subsequent evaluation of their language progress. Among other benefits, computer-based testing allows for better and individualised feedback to both teachers and students, and it can provide a more authentic test experience in light of the current digital shift that UK universities are undergoing. In particular, the qualitative improvement in the feedback available for test-takers and teachers was for us a crucial factor. Providing students with personalised feedback, that is, directly linked to their performance, has positive washforward, because it means we can guide their future learning, highlighting the areas they need to work on to improve their language skills and giving them suggestions on how to succeed in academia. Furthermore, explaining the meaning of test results in detail improves transparency and ultimately washback, as teachers can use the more accessible marking criteria, together with information on how their students performed, to review plans and schemes of work for subsequent courses.
Preparation of a novel ginkgolide B niosomal composite drug
Authors: Zhou Juntong , Wu Xiao , Zhao Zhanhong , Wang Zhenpeng , Li Shumu , Chen Chang , Yu Shan , Qu Xintong , Li Kexin , Tian Ye , Liu Xiaojing , Zhang Gaoyu , Wang Zhaoxuan , Li Chi , Kang Ning , Huo Qing
Published: September 2020

Ginkgolide B (GB) and Puerarin (Pue) are active pharmaceutical ingredients for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease (PD); however, both are poorly water-soluble, which limits their bioavailability. The present study used the niosome vesicle encapsulation technique to prepare a novel GB composite drug. The conditions for GB–Pue niosomal complex preparation were as follows: a hydration temperature of 60°C, a hydrophilic–lipophilic balance of 10.5, a drug–carrier mass ratio of 8:100, and a surfactant–cholesterol mass ratio of 1.5:1. The niosomal complex suspension was uniformly distributed and milky white in color, with no stratification over a duration of 1 month. It had an average particle size of 187.3 nm, a particle-size distribution of 0.237, a GB encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 68.2%, a GB drug-loading rate of 90.1%, a Pue EE of 40.5%, and a Pue drug-loading rate of 83.3%. The optimal storage temperature for the niosomal complex suspension was 4°C. Following an intravenous injection of the niosomal complex suspension into the rat tail, the area under the curve (AUC) from 0 to 4 h was 54.1 h µg mL−1, with a mean residence time (MRT) of 0.96 h, a distribution half-life (T1/2α) of 0.195 h, and a total clearance of 0.003 L h−1 kg−1. The AUC and MRT of the composite prescription were 1.1- and 1.4-times those of the commercial injection, respectively, showing significantly increased sustained release and bioavailability. Moreover, the distribution of GB in the brain tissue was 1.8-times that of the commercial injection. In conclusion, the novel GB niosomal composite drug, with excellent stability, improved pharmacokinetics, and brain tissue distribution, demonstrates great potential for the delivery of GB and Pue for PD therapeutics.
Simulation of direct chlorination of ethylene in a two-phase reactor by coupling equilibrium, kinetic and population balance models
Authors: Moradi Z. , Farsi M.
Published: September 2020

The purpose of presented research is the mathematical simulation and sensitivity analysis of ethylene dichloride synthesis (EDC) through direct chlorination of ethylene in a bubble column reactor at steady state condition. In the first step, the reactor is heterogeneously simulated based on the energy and mass balance equations by coupling the mass and energy, kinetic, equilibrium, and population balance models. In the considered process, the gaseous ethylene and chlorine are dispersed and dissolved in the liquid medium and converted to EDC at the presence of a homogeneous catalyst. The population balance model is applied to calculate the heat and mass transfer area along the reactor. To investigate the accuracy of established model, the results of simulation are compared with the plant data. It is confirmed that temperature, pressure, rate of mass transfer, breakage, and coalescence phenomena change the bubble diameter and distribution in the chlorination reactor. In the second step, the effects of operating pressure and temperature on the EDC production rate are investigated by the developed model. In the third step, considering EDC production rate as the cost function the optimal operating temperature of reactor is developed at steady state condition. Based on the obtained results, the optimal operating temperature is 357 K and EDC production at the optimal condition is 23.79 mol s−1.
Erratum to Twisted Burnside–Frobenius theory for discrete groups (J. reine angew. Math. 613 (2007), 193–210)
Authors: Fel’shtyn Alexander , Troitsky Evgenij
Published: September 2020

We correct a heavy misprint in our paper.
Congenital pulmonary lymphangiectasia in an extremely low birth weight: a case report
Authors: Basti Claudia , Mareri Arianna , Maranella Eugenia , Di Fabio Sandra
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Congenital pulmonary lymphangiectasia (CPL) is a rare but fatal disorder of the lung.

Case presentation

We describe the case of an extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infant who presented with severe respiratory distress and recurrent bilateral pneumothorax. He died on day 17. The post-mortem examination of the lungs showed numerous cystic spaces, ranging from 1 to 2 mm in size, in the visceral pleura, in the thickened interlobular septum and hilum. A diagnosis of primary CPL was made.

Conclusions

We intend to underline that CPL, albeit rare, must be one of the differential diagnoses in infants with severe neonatal respiratory distress not responding to intensive care. Chronic interstitial lung diseases are a challenging diagnostic clinical problem, which requires a multidisciplinary approach. Histological lung examination may be useful to demonstrate the presence of CPL.
Clinical performance of amperometry compared with enzymatic ultra violet method for lactate quantification in cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: de Almeida Sérgio Monteiro , Barros Nagyla , Fernandes dos Santos Alisson , Custodio Gislaine , Petterle Ricardo Rasmussen , Nogueira Keite , Nogueira Meri Bordignon
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The differential diagnosis between acute bacterial meningitis (BM) and viral meningitis (VM) is crucial for treatment and prognosis. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) lactate (LA) is considered a good biomarker for differentiating BM from VM. The objective of this study was to compare the clinical performance of amperometry, which is not validated for measurement of LA in CSF samples, with a validated method (enzymatic ultra violet), for their ability to discriminate between acute BM and VM.

Methods

It was a retrospective, descriptive comparative study, 320 CSF reports were included; LA was quantified in CSF using either Dimension AR machine (Dade Behring) or amperometry (RAPID Point 500, Siemens). All samples with bacteria (n=54) or virus (n=139) identified, compared with a control with normal CSF (n=127).

Results

CSF LA levels were comparable for amperometry or enzymatic methods on each group studied, in a wide range of LA levels; it was capable to distinguish BM from VM independent of the method used to quantify.

Conclusions

The findings support the use of the amperometric method in measuring LA concentrations in CSF in a wide range of values. Amperometry is a less expensive method, validated for blood, easily available in small laboratories including in limited resources countries.
Effect of diacylhydrazine as chain extender on microphase separation and performance of energetic polyurethane elastomer
Authors: Gao Yang , Lv Jie , Liu Licheng , Yu Yingfeng
Published: September 2020

It is low cost and feasible to improve the mechanical properties of polyurethane by using the chain extender with hydrogen bonding function to improve the degree of microphase separation. In this article, hydrazine hydrate was used to react with ethylene carbonate and propylene carbonate, respectively, to synthesize diacylhydrazines as the polyurethane chain extender with amide bonds, which were characterized by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance. Polyurethane with different contents of hard segment were prepared from poly-3,3-bis(azidomethyl)oxetane-tetrahydrofuran as the polyol and 4,4′-diphenylmethane diisocyanate as the isocyanate components. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed that with the increase of the hard segment content, the proportion of hydrogen-bonded ordered carbonyl group increased to 94%, proving that diacylhydrazines could improve the degree of ordered hydrogen bonding, which led to clear microphase separation observed by field emission scanning electron microscopy and higher storage modulus of the polyurethane. Differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis showed that polyurethane with higher hard segment content is likely to exhibit multiple thermal transitions caused by microphase separation. When the hard segment content was 40%, compared with polyurethane with 1,4-butanediol as the chain extender, the tensile strengths of polyurethanes with diacylhydrazines also improved by 30% and 76%, respectively.
Full-field tracking and analysis of shrinkage strain during moisture content loss in wood
Authors: Fu Zongying , Weng Xiang , Gao Yufa , Zhou Yongdong
Published: September 2020

Anisotropic shrinkage is a typically feature in wood, which is of critical importance in wood drying. In this study, the shrinkage strains over each growth ring were determined by a full-field strain measurement system during moisture content (MC) loss. Color maps were used to visualize the full-field distribution of displacement and shrinkage strain under different MC conditions. The variation of tangential and radial shrinkage strain from pith to bark, as well as the anisotropic shrinkage in heartwood and sapwood were studied. Both of the displacement and strain values increased as the MC decreased. From pith to bark, the tangential strains were higher at two poles as compared to the center, showing a parabolic distribution below fiber saturation point. While for radial shrinkage strain, a minor difference was observed except for the MC of 10%. An intersection between tangential and radial shrinkage ratio curve was observed at the MC of 28%. Both expansion and shrinkage in tangential direction were larger than radial counterparts, and the transformation from expansion to shrinkage occurred at the MC region of 32–28%. In addition, the shrinkage in heartwood was larger than sapwood, whereas anisotropic shrinkage in sapwood was more pronounced as compared to heartwood.
The perspective of our future doctors towards organ donation: a national representative study from India
Authors: Verma Madhur , Sharma Priyanka , Ranjan Sneha , Sahoo Soumya Swaroop , Aggarwal Ramnika , Mehta Kedar , Tariq Rabbanie , Kanwale Suchita , SK Shashi kantha , Mittal Anshu , Das Anupi , Galhotra Abhiruchi
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Timely donation of organs has helped many get a new life. But in India, the pace of Organ Donation and Transplant (ODT) has been disturbingly sluggish. There is a wide gap between patients who need transplants and the organs that are available in India. Doctors can play a pertinent role in decreasing this gap. Therefore, the present study was done to assess the knowledge, attitude, and perception of the medical students in India regarding Organ Donation (OD).

Material and Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out among the undergraduate students (n=1463) in 10 different medical colleges across the country. Data were collected electronically through Google forms by using a pre-designed, semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire.

Results

About 65% of students had a positive attitude regarding ODT. Most of the students acknowledged that Internet sources (57.7%) and print media (46.5%) played a significant role in their awareness. 83% of the students felt that there is a need for effective laws to regulate the process of ODT. It was encouraging that most of the students (69.6%) were not biased for the type of recipients for the organ.

Conclusion

In the face of acute shortage of donated organs in India, the medical students can be the torchbearers of a positive change. Topics on ODT should be stressed in the initial years and during the early clinical exposure through rapid implementation of the revised Medical curriculum. They can motivate the general public and patients during their routine interactions to make this idea more accessible and acceptable.
Prevalence of ear morbidities among school children in Delhi, India: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Shekhar Himanshu , Khokhar Anita , Motwani Gul , Daral Shailaja
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Hearing impairment and ear diseases are among the world’s leading causes of years lived with disability. Ear disorders are a major health problem in developing countries like India. The present research had been planned to screen the primary school children for ear morbidity and to study the various factors associated with ear morbidities so that corrective intervention can be initiated at the earliest.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among all primary school children of two schools in Aliganj, Delhi. Complete enumeration of all the school children of these two primary schools was planned for this study. Modified version of World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) “Ten Question Plus” screening instrument was used, followed by Otoscopy examination, in all children for confirmation of ear disease, if any. Descriptive data analysis was performed.

Results

Out of the total 430 study subjects, ear morbidities were found in 198 (46.0%) study participants. Presence of ear morbidity showed significant association with overcrowding, absence of a separate kitchen, passive smoking, feeding young child in lying down position, upper respiratory tract infection (URI)˃3 episodes/year and allergy (p<0.05).

Conclusions

This study has highlighted the need to detect ear diseases at the earliest thereby avoiding complications. The health examination in the schools must include screening students for ear diseases to reduce the burden of hearing disability. Inputs from the study may be used for effective prioritization and planning for prevention and management of ear diseases at the primary school level.
The burden of the probable polycystic ovarian syndrome and its associated factor among college going late adolescents and young adults: a cross sectional analytical study in urban Puducherry, South India
Authors: Suresh Devipriyaa , Jayaseelan Venkatachalam , Sulgante Sudheera , Surendran Gayathri , Roy Gautam
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common metabolic and reproductive disorders among women of reproductive age. In low income and developing countries like India, there are very high chances of developing PCOS due to marked variation between culture, ethnic groups, diet, lifestyle and genetic factors. This study aims to determine the burden of probable PCOS among college going students in Puducherry.

Methods

A cross sectional study was carried out among students aged 18 years and above in a Government College for Women located in urban Puducherry. A total of 610 students were selected through a cluster random sampling technique. A pretested validated proforma was administered after obtaining informed consent.

Results

25.1% (21.8–28.7) of women were having probable PCOS, 18.7% (15.8–22.0) had irregular menstrual history, 8.4% (6.4–10.8) had Hirsutism and 2% (1.8–3.3) had both the symptoms. Regarding food habits, 43.1% were vegetarians and were having probable PCOS and this association was found to be statistically significant. No significant association was found between prevalence of probable PCOS and factors such as higher age, parental income, higher BMI and physical inactivity.

Conclusions

The present study found a high prevalence of probable PCOS among college going students, especially among study respondents who were obese, physically inactive and vegetarians compared to the counterpart. Earlier detection and proper management of the symptoms can avoid some major co-morbidity in the future. Therefore, screening is an important part in the diagnosis and management of PCOS among adolescent girls.
Comparison of the psychosocial impact on patients affected by cranio facial anomalies between traditional orthodontic brackets and aligners
Authors: Meazzini Maria Costanza , Tortora Chiara , Cohen Noah , Mazzoleni Fabio , Balbo Nicoletta , Donati Vera , Autelitano Luca
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Malocclusion affects the psychological wellness and social interaction, impacting negatively on adolescents’ quality of life and self-esteem. Facial attractiveness is mostly based on the esthetics of the smile and patients seek orthodontic treatment mainly to improve aesthetics. The aim of this prospective clinical study is to compare the psychosocial impact of aligners (AL) and fixed appliances (FA) as orthodontic treatments in patients affected by craniofacial anomalies (CFA).

Methods

100 syndromic Caucasian patients with CFA followed in two different hospitals were divided in two groups: 50 patients treated with AL and 50 patients treated with FA. The two groups were matched for gender, age and CFA and filled out a modified psychosocial impact of dental aesthetics questionnaire (mPIDAQ).

Results

Patients affected by CFA treated with AL reported a better psychosocial impact than patients treated with FA, showing higher esthetic self-perception and self-esteem, lower social interaction impairments, and lower physical/practical disturbances.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that AL could be a valid alternative, especially in complex patients with CFA. Since AL application requires more cooperative patients the orthodontist should dedicate more time to motivate the patient to adhere to the treatment schedule.
Concept-based curriculum: design and implementation strategies
Authors: Harrison Carmen V.
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Novice nurses are struggling to exercise the critical thinking skill set needed to make competent clinical decisions in today’s complex health care environment. This poses immense threats to the health and safety of patients. To address this alarming concern, many prominent organizations have called for a widespread overhaul of nursing curricula.

Methods

A consistent theme among the recommendations for revising nursing curricula is the utilization of innovative curricula designs that focus on enhancing the critical thinking ability of nursing students, such as a concept-based curriculum.

Results

Planning and implementing a curriculum revision is an overwhelming undertaking.

Conclusions

Providing nurse educators with a guide on how to transition to a concept-based curriculum may help to facilitate a course revision.
Assessing the impact of mentorship on nurses’ and midwives’ knowledge and self-efficacy in managing postpartum hemorrhage
Authors: Musabwasoni Marie Grace Sandra , Kerr Mickey , Babenko-Mould Yolanda , Nzayirambaho Manasse , Ngabonzima Anaclet
Published: September 2020

Background

Despite medical technology advancement, postpartum hemorrhage remains the top universal cause of maternal mortality. Factors note the inconsistency in recognition and timely treatment of women experiencing it, which suggests healthcare professionals’ mentorship about postpartum hemorrhage.

Methods

The study recruited 141 nurses and midwives and used instruments adapted to knowledge and self-efficacy to assess the impact of mentorship on nurses’ and midwives’ knowledge and self-efficacy in managing postpartum hemorrhage.

Results

There was an increase in knowledge from 68% prior to mentorship up to 87% and self-efficacy from 6.9 to 9.5 average score out of 10. Knowledge and self-efficacy correlated moderately positive at pre-mentorship (r=0.214) and strongly positive at post-mentorship (r=0.585). The number of mentorship visits attended was associated with post-mentorship knowledge scores (r=0.539) and post-mentorship self-efficacy (r=0.623).

Conclusions

Mentorship about management of postpartum hemorrhage increases nurses’ and midwives’ knowledge and self-efficacy in managing postpartum hemorrhage.
Rethinking second-century BC military service: the speech of Spurius Ligustinus
Authors: Biglino Fabrizio
Published: September 2020

Several elements suggest that Polybius’ description of the Roman army in Book VI of hisHistoriesdepicts a rather outdated military system, making it hard to accept it as an up-to-date portrait of the legions by the mid-second century BC. After all, the Roman army had been experiencing a series of changes since the mid-third century that were affecting both the army’ structure and how citizens experienced military service. This paper argues that the famous episode of Spurius Ligustinus (Livy 42.34) contains several suggestions about the nature of these changes and their social ramifications. Although Livy embellished his source for rhetorical reasons, this episode still offers crucial evidence not only on the Roman army but especially, through the figure of Ligustinus himself, on the mid-Republican citizen-soldiers. Through a careful examination of key sections of this episode this paper aims to explore how, by this point, the army already presented features traditionally associated with Gaius Marius and his reforms, thus further emphasizing the outdatedness of Polybius’ description. By offering the very unique profile of an individual Roman citizen of the mid-second century and his relationship with military service, the speech of Ligustinus depicts a more believable and up-to-date representation of military service during the crucial decades of Roman Mediterranean expansion.
The Inflation Technique Completely Solves the Causal Compatibility Problem
Authors: Navascués Miguel , Wolfe Elie
Published: September 2020

The causal compatibility question asks whether a given causal structure graph — possibly involving latent variables — constitutes a genuinely plausible causal explanation for a given probability distribution over the graph’s observed categorical variables. Algorithms predicated on merely necessary constraints for causal compatibility typically suffer from false negatives, i.e. they admit incompatible distributions as apparently compatible with the given graph. In 10.1515/jci-2017-0020, one of us introduced the inflation technique for formulating useful relaxations of the causal compatibility problem in terms of linear programming. In this work, we develop a formal hierarchy of such causal compatibility relaxations. We prove that inflation is asymptotically tight, i.e., that the hierarchy converges to a zero-error test for causal compatibility. In this sense, the inflation technique fulfills a longstanding desideratum in the field of causal inference. We quantify the rate of convergence by showing that any distribution which passes the nth-order inflation test must be $\begin{array}{}
\displaystyle
{O}{\left(n^{{{-}{1}}/{2}}\right)}
\end{array}$-close in Euclidean norm to some distribution genuinely compatible with the given causal structure. Furthermore, we show that for many causal structures, the (unrelaxed) causal compatibility problem is faithfully formulated already by either the first or second order inflation test.
A periodicity theorem for acylindrically hyperbolic groups
Authors: Bogopolski Oleg
Published: September 2020

We generalize a well-known periodicity lemma from the case of free groups to the case of acylindrically hyperbolic groups. This generalization has been used to describe solutions of certain equations in acylindrically hyperbolic groups and to characterize verbally closed finitely generated acylindrically hyperbolic subgroups of finitely presented groups.
Generation of finite groups with cyclic Sylow subgroups
Authors: Dietrich Heiko , Low Darren
Published: September 2020

M. C. Slattery [Generation of groups of square-free order, J. Symbolic Comput. 42 2007, 6, 668–677] described computational methods to enumerate, construct and identify finite groups of squarefree order.
We generalise Slattery’s result to the class of finite groups that have cyclic Sylow subgroups and provide an implementation for the computer algebra system GAP.
Bridging Gaps in the Development of CBRN Defense Technologies Through Multi-Sectorial Collaboration–A Call for Action
Authors: Bodas Moran , Kimhi Yuval , Robin Guy , Krasner Esther
Published: September 2020

The past decade brought about a dramatic change in the global Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) risk with a reduction of the threat of war and an increase in risk of terrorism. These changes have a considerable influence on the development of CBRN defense technologies: from highly predictable scenarios with relatively good risk assessment and intelligence capabilities, to a wide variety of scenarios with limited predictive capabilities in the case of terrorism. First responders are challenged to deal with multilateral issues, which are more complex than ever before. As long as the threat was state-posed and in a war context, CBRN technologies were developed in light of defense authorities’ demands. Nowadays, with the diminishing wartime threat, the market is left “unsupervised.” Manufacturers and developers are adopting their technologies with limited to no feedback and support of the end-users. In turn, this leads to suboptimal technological results from the operational point-of-view. This paper calls for a multi-sectorial, joint venture between academia, industry, government and first responders. Such collaboration should seek a non-competitive, financially stable environment to bridge gaps in the development of defense technologies that are adapted to the rapidly changing threats. Examples and discussion will be provided.
Collocated Finite-Volume Method for the Incompressible Navier-Stokes Problem
Authors: Terekhov Kirill M.
Published: September 2020

The article introduces a collocated finite-volume method for the incompressible Navier-Stokes problem. The method applies to general polyhedral grids and demonstrates higher than the first order of convergence. The velocity components and the pressure are approximated by piecewise-linear continuous and piecewise-constant fields, respectively. The method does not require artificial boundary conditions for pressure but requires stabilization term to suppress the error introduced by piecewise-constant pressure for convection-dominated problems. Both the momentum and continuity equations are approximated in a flux-conservative fashion, i.e. the conservation for both quantities is discretely exact. The attractive side of the method is a simple flux-based finite-volume construction of the scheme. Applicability of the method is demonstrated on several numerical tests using general polyhedral grids.
Evaluation of quantum dot light-emitting diodes synchronization under optically feedback
Authors: Al Husseini Hussein B.
Published: September 2020

Chaos synchronization of two quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QDLEDs) theoretically is studied, which are via a closed or open-loop and mutual coupling system. Whereas the synchronized-chaotic systems, the dynamics of there are identical to uncoupled dot light-emitting diodes (DLEDs) under optical feedback effect. Complete synchronization was obtained under certain conditions for the coupling parameters. We evaluated the range of the QDLED’s chaos with extrinsic optical feedback in methods of the chaos synchronization residue diagram and discussion as well as the coherence for the optimal coupling strength range. With proper conditions of the coupling parameters and the evaluation methods, the synchronization was satisfactorily obtained between the transmitter and receiver.
Individualized sex-specific birth weight percentiles for gestational age based on maternal height and weight
Authors: Voigt Manfred , Rochow Niels , Landau-Crangle Erin , Meyer-Kahrweg Lena Marie , Olbertz Dirk M. , Kunze Mirjam , Nikischin Werner , Wittwer-Backofen Ursula , Rochow Markus , Däbritz Jan , Hentschel Roland
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The maternal body size affects birth weight. The impact on birth weight percentiles is unknown. The objective of the study was to develop birth weight percentiles based on maternal height and weight.

Methods

This observational study analyzed 2.2 million singletons from the German Perinatal Survey. Data were stratified into 18 maternal height and weight groups. Sex-specific birth weight percentiles were calculated from 31 to 42 weeks and compared to percentiles from the complete dataset using the GAMLSS package for R statistics.

Results

Birth weight percentiles not considering maternal size showed 22% incidence of small for gestational age (SGA) and 2% incidence of large for gestational age (LGA) for the subgroup of newborns from petite mothers, compared to a 4% SGA and 26% LGA newborns from big mothers. The novel percentiles based on 18 groups stratified by maternal height and weight for both sexes showed significant differences between identical original percentiles. The differences were up to almost 800 g between identical percentiles for petite and big mothers. The 97th and 50th percentile from the group of petite mothers almost overlap with the 50th and 3rd percentile from the group of big mothers.

Conclusions

There is a clinically significant difference in birth weight percentiles when stratified by maternal height and weight. It could be hypothesized that birth weight charts stratified by maternal anthropometry could provide higher specificity and more individual prediction of perinatal risks. The new percentiles may be used to evaluate estimated fetal as well as birth weight.
Retrospective study of maternal and neonatal outcomes after induction compared to spontaneous start of labour in women with one previous birth in uncomplicated pregnancies ≥ 41+3
Authors: Lindegren Lina , Stuart Andrea , Carlsson Fagerberg Marie , Källén Karin
Published: September 2020

Objectives

To study the association between induction and outcome among two-parous women in uncomplicated pregnancies ≥ 41+3, stratified by first labour delivery mode and conditions present at first delivery.

Methods

The Swedish Medical Birth Register was used to identify 58,964 uncomplicated singleton pregnancies among women with one previous birth between 1998 and 2014. Women with any registered pregnancy complications were excluded to minimise the risk for indication bias. The outcomes considered were emergency caesarean section (CS), and poor neonatal outcome (Apgar score <7 at 5 min, neonatal death, or meconium aspiration).

Results

Women who were induced at their second labour had higher emergency CS rates compared to women in spontaneously started deliveries (adjusted risk ratio, ARR: 2.11; 95% CI: 2.00–2.23). Low Apgar score was more common after induction compared to spontaneously started labours (1.0 vs. 0.7%) (ARR: 1.44; 95% CI: 1.18–1.77). Increased CS rates were also found when comparing induction at 41 + 3 to 41 + 6 weeks to labour at 42 weeks or more, regardless of labour start (ARR 1.39; 95% CI: 1.26–1.52).

Conclusions

We found an increased risk of CS and poor neonatal outcome after second labour induction in prolonged pregnancies. The second labour vaginal success rate after induction was highly dependent, on first labour delivery mode, but also on diagnoses and conditions present at the first delivery.
Evaluation of the labour process with serial transperineal ultrasonography and prediction of the type of birth
Authors: Bulut Ayca Nazli , Ceyhan Venhar
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to follow the birth process with transperineal ultrasonography (TPU) and predict the delivery method using angle of progression (AOP).

Methods

The study included 134 patients. The AOP was examined with TPU in the lithotomy position applied at 4-h intervals, not at a time of straining or contractions. The relationship was examined between AOP and those who continued with vaginal delivery, and those who underwent caesarean section delivery.

Results

A total of 122 (91%) patients had vaginal delivery and 12 (9%) patients had cesarean delivery. In patients giving vaginal delivery, progress in AOP was observed in every 4-h measurement, but not in patients with cesarean section. In the ROC analysis, if 70% sensitivity and 75% specificity with AOP degree >132.5°, the patient was expected to have vaginal delivery with a probability of 77.5% (95% CI 0.62–0.93; p=0.002).

Conclusions

Rather than repeating digital examinations, the labour process can be monitored with serial TPU and the type of delivery can be predicted. There is a need for further studies for the measurement of AOP with TPU to become a part of clinical practice in the monitoring of the whole labour process.
Orientation, Indexicality, and Comparisons
Authors: von Sass Hartmut
Published: September 2020

In his 1786 essay, What does it mean to orient oneself in thinking?, Kant characterizes the business of reasoning by referring to the use of the spatial orientations ‘right’ and ‘left’; he, then, extents his analysis to mathematical and logical ways of orientation. The following paper will start off by analyzing the Kantian standard account of orientation to, eventually, amend that account by deepening and correcting it in three respects: the indexical character of orientation that is due to the particular standpoint of the subject who is oriented by a particular cluster of available reference points; the twofold comparative procedure of orientation in which a situation is assessed by virtue of a practically justified and indexically structured net of orientation; and the receptive modes of orientation, mirroring the ‘existential’ fact that the subject is already oriented to a situation by established institutions. The paper ends in briefly considering the pitfalls and benefits of being disoriented.
A cross-linguistic study of expletive negation
Authors: Jin Yanwei , Koenig Jean-Pierre
Published: September 2020

This paper provides a typological overview of expletive negation based on a survey of 722 languages, focusing in detail on a smaller sample of five languages. Expletive negation (EN) has been discussed extensively within Romance linguistics. This paper surveys its occurrence across languages of the world and offers a comprehensive list of EN-triggering contexts collected from French and Mandarin, comparing that list with EN triggers in Januubi, English, and Zarma-Sonrai. The paper proposes a language production and semantic account of the similarity of EN-triggering contexts found in these five languages. We propose that the meaning of EN triggers entails or strongly implies ¬pand that the activation of ¬palongsidepis what leads speakers to produce EN. Four semantic licensing conditions for EN triggers are identified and each EN-triggering context is semantically analyzed.
Strong electro-optic absorption spanning nearly two octaves in an all-fiber graphene device
Authors: Park Nam Hun , Ha Seongju , Chae Kwanbyung , Park Ji-Yong , Yeom Dong-Il
Published: September 2020

An efficient electro-optic transition control is reported in all-fiber graphene devices over a broad spectral range from visible to near-infrared. The ion liquid–based gating device fabricated onto a side-polished fiber with high numerical aperture significantly enhances the light-matter interaction with graphene, resulting in strong and nonresonant electro-optic absorption of up to 25.5 dB in the wavelength ranging from 532 to 1950 nm. A comprehensive analysis of the optical and electrical properties of the device fabricated with monolayer and bilayer graphene revealed that the number of graphene layers significantly impacts on the performance of the device, including modulation depth and driving voltage. Wavelength-dependent optical response is also measured, which clearly characterizes the electronic bandgap dispersion of graphene. The device exhibited more efficient electro-optic modulation in the longer wavelength region, where the maximum light modulation efficiency of 286.3%/V is achieved at a wavelength of 1950 nm.
The crystal structure bis{hexakis(1-methyl-1H-imidazole-κ1N)cobalt(II)} tetrakis(μ3-oxido)-octakis(μ2-oxido)-tetradecaoxido-octamolybdate(VI), C24H36CoMo4N12O13
Authors: Zhang Gang , Luan Jian , Wang Xiao-Jie
Published: September 2020

C24H36CoMo4N12O13, triclinic, P1̄ (no. 2), a = 11.155(5) Å, b = 13.889(6) Å, c = 14.081(6) Å, α = 64.544(12)°, β = 79.558(14)°, γ = 87.084(14)°, V = 1936.3(15) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt(F) = 0.0365, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1171, T = 293(2) K.
The crystal structure of diaqua-tris(nitrato-κ2
O,O′)-bis(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-2-(p-pyridyl)imidazoline-1-oxyl 3-oxide-κN)samarium(III), C24H36N9O15Sm
Authors: Li Dongjiao
Published: September 2020

C24H36N9O15Sm, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 14), a = 23.625(3) Å, b = 11.6837(12) Å, c = 11.9293(12) Å, β = 94.6460(10)°, V = 3281.9(6) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0173, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0449, T = 293(2) K.
Crystal structure of ethyl 4-methyl-2-oxo-5-phenyl-1,3,4-oxadiazinane-3-carboxylate, C13H16N2O4
Authors: Caracelli Ignez , Zukerman-Schpector Julio , Rodrigues Alessandro , Vinhato Elisângela , Olivato Paulo R. , Tiekink Edward R.T.
Published: September 2020

C13H16N2O4, orthorhombic, P212121 (no. 19), a = 6.7876(2) Å, b = 8.8984(2) Å, c = 22.3399(6) Å, V = 1349.30(6) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0384, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0947, T = 293(2) K.
Crystal structure of catena-poly[diaqua(μ2-2-(hydroxymethyl)-1H-imidazole-4,5-dicarboxylato)cadmium(II)], C6H8CdN2O7
Authors: Huang Xiao-Ying , Sun Shu-Xiang , Wang Chuan-Qi , Yao Pei
Published: September 2020

C6H8CdN2O7, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 7.3428(15) Å, b = 11.272(2) Å, c = 12.764(4) Å, β = 118.73(2)°, V = 926.4(4) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0261, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0609, T = 293(2) K.
The Twofold Limit of Objects: Problematising Timothy Morton’s Rift in Light of Eugenio Trías’s Notion of Limit
Authors: Vivaldi Jordi
Published: September 2020

The ontological abyss that separates real objects from sensual objects is one of the central principles of Object-Oriented Ontology (OOO), which has its most explicit and profuse modulation in Timothy Morton’s notion of rift. This article argues that, despite succeeding in explaining the radical difference that inhabits every object, Morton’s rift fails to explain the object’s unification, rendering the overall theory inconsistent. An alternative approach that accounts simultaneously for disjunction and conjunction between essences and appearances can be found in Eugenio Trías’s philosophy of the limit, a term widely ignored in OOO despite its deeply non-relational conception of the reality of things. The article further argues that the reinterpretation of Trías’s twofold liminal approach in light of OOO successfully addresses the inconsistencies found in Morton’s rift, paving the way for a theory of limits within Harman’s ontological framework.
Zum Werden des ökologischen Phänomens Mensch
Authors: Niemitz Carsten
Published: September 2020

In einer Zeit, in der die Polarisierung von Gesellschaften ebenso in den öffentlichen Diskurs eindringt wie die ganze Menschheit betreffende, existenzielle Unsicherheiten, gewinnen Aspekte der Identität sowohl Raum als auch Bedeutung. Im ersten Teil des Beitrags werden Aspekte der Geborgenheit durch Identität beleuchtet und die Instrumentarisierung im Sinne einer ‚Identitätsnutzung‘ diskutiert. Der zweite Abschnitt geht der Frage nach, ob der Mensch eine ökologische Identität per evolutionem sein Eigen nennen kann oder vielleicht sogar eine Identität der Nachhaltigkeit erworben hat. Mit der inzwischen kritischen Zunahme der Weltbevölkerung sieht sich die ganze Menschheit selbst erzeugten Problemen gegenüber, deren Lösung immer unwahrscheinlicher wird. In einer Anzahl von Ländern der Erde beobachtet man eine Abnahme der Fertilität von Frauen. Dies betrifft weite Teile von Europa und Amerika, aber ebenso muslimische Länder wie Saudi Arabien oder den Irak. Vielleicht bewirkt eine steigende Zukunftsunsicherheit eine unmerklich heranwachsende Identität der Frauen im Sinne einer Nachhaltigkeit und Bewahrung.
Was ist Theateranthropologie?
Authors: Warstat Matthias
Published: September 2020

Wichtige Reformperioden des europäischen Theaters im 20. Jahrhundert waren mit der Frage verbunden, wie neue Konzeptionen des Menschen und des menschlichen Zusammenlebens auf der Bühne zur Darstellung kommen können. Das Theater schien prädestiniert zu einer solchen Reflexion über Möglichkeiten des Menschlichen, weil es zugleich weithin als eine anthropozentrische Kunstform galt. Noch in Zusammenhang der Neoavantgarde seit den 1960er Jahren wurde in einflussreichen Manifesten die Auffassung vertreten, mehr als den einzelnen, vor Publikum exponierten Menschen im Raum brauche es nicht, um eindrucksvolles Theater zu machen. Diese Anthropozentrik des Theaters (bzw. eines bestimmten Theaterkonzepts) ist im beginnenden 21. Jahrhundert in die Kritik geraten. Ein ‚posthumanes‘, nicht mehr so stark auf den menschlichen Akteur fokussiertes Theater wird vielfach gefordert in einigen Bereichen – etwa im Objekttheater und in mehr installativen Theaterformen – durchaus auch umgesetzt. Was bedeutet diese (partielle) Abwendung vom Menschen für das Verhältnis von Theater und Anthropologie? Ist es auch heute noch möglich, auf der Bühne Visionen eines neuen Menschen bzw. neuer Formen des menschlichen Zusammenlebens zu entwickeln? Wie steht es um die Theateranthropologie, die sich im 20. Jahrhundert sowohl als eine Spielart von Theaterpraxis als auch als wissenschaftlicher Forschungsbereich entwickelt hatte?
Spatial distribution of natural and artificial radioactivity concentrations in soil samples and statistical approach, Nevşehir, Turkey
Authors: Bingöldağ Nesli , Otansev Pelin
Published: September 2020

The concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, 40K and 137Cs radionuclides in soil samples collected from 323 different regions of Nevşehir province were determined by using a gamma spectrometer with an HPGe detector. The mean gamma activity concentrations (ranges) of 226Ra, 232Th, 40K and 137Cs for districts were determined as 49.45 (7.40–193.90), 54.08 (<2.8–122.50), 698.43 (37.67–1370.20) and 8.26 (0.10–52.60) Bq kg−1, respectively. The mean activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K were higher than the world mean value. According to Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, distributions of 226Ra, 232Th and 137Cs show log-normal distributions. Whereas, 40K shows normal distribution. The mean radium equivalent activity was 181.68 Bq kg−1 which is lower than the recommended maximum value of 370 Bq kg−1. The mean external terrestrial gamma dose rate was found to be 85.12 nGy h−1. The calculated external hazard value was 0.49 and within the acceptable limit which is less than unity (Hex ≤ 1). Thermo Scientific RadEye NBR detector was used to determine environmental gamma dose rates. The gamma dose rates were measured at 445 points at a height of 1 m from land surface. The mean outdoor gamma dose rate (range) was found as 150.13 (50–480) nGy h−1. This mean value was found higher than world mean value. The fact that most of the Nevşehir province is based on volcanic rocks explains why the gamma dose rates are high.
Influence of particulate matter on human health in selected African provinces: mini-review
Authors: Bulto Tadesse W.
Published: September 2020

Air contamination influenced the human health and environmental well-being of the ecosystem. Particulate matter is a series of issues from major air pollutants in atmosphere. The aim of the review was to analyses the influence of particulate matter on human health and estimate the number of populations exposed to air pollution. The data analysed using the Environmental Benefits Mapping Analysis program model to selected African provinces. The review used 15% rollback data from the global burden disease and 5.8 µg/m³ the concentration of air pollutants from 1990 to 2013 years. The main findings of the study revealed that about 370 million (36.6%) population affected by air pollution. Besides, the risk factor associated with a population was 53,000 deaths per total population and 50,000 life-year losses. The economic value estimated to avoid a single case of particular matter on human health effect were estimated 14 billion dollars (US 2011). Priorities should be given to air quality management to improve the human and environmental health of ecosystems to reduce the global burden of disease of Africa regions.