bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Change of Pressing Chamber Conicalness at Briquetting Process in Briquetting Machine Pressing Chamber
Authors: Križan Peter , Matúš Miloš , Kers Jaan , Vukelić Djordje
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we will present the impact of the conical shape of a pressing chamber, an important structural parameter. Besides the known impact of the technological parameters of pressing chambers, it is also very important to pay attention to their structural parameters. In the introduction, we present a theoretical analysis of pressing chamber conicalness. An experiment aimed at detecting this impact was performed at our institute, and it showed that increasing the conicalness of a pressing chamber improves the quality of the final briquettes. The conicalness of the pressing chamber has a significanteffect on the final briquette quality and on the construction of briquetting machines. The experimental findings presented here show the importance of this parameter in the briquetting process.
Biomass Gasification — Primary Methods for Eliminating Tar
Authors: Lisý Martin , Baláš Marek , Moskalík Jiří , Štelcl Otakar
Published: March 2021

This present paper deals with primary methods for reducing tar in biomass gasification, namely by feeding a natural catalyst into a fluidized bed. This method is verified using an experimental pilot plant.
Experimental Investigation of Radial Gas Dispersion Coefficients in a Fluidized Bed
Authors: Štefanica Jiří , Hrdlička Jan
Published: March 2021

In a fluidized bed boiler, the combustion efficiency, the NOX formation rate, flue gas desulphurization and fluidized bed heat transfer are all ruled by the gas distribution. In this investigation, the tracer gas method is used for evaluating the radial gas dispersion coefficient. CO2 is used as a tracer gas, and the experiment is carried out in a bubbling fluidized bed cold model. Ceramic balls are used as the bed material. The effect of gas velocity, radial position and bed height is investigated.
Replacing Natural Gas by Biogas — Determining the Bacterial Contamination of Biogas by PCR
Authors: Čermáková Jiřina , Mrázek Jakub , Fliegerová Kateřina , Tenkrát Daniel
Published: March 2021

A promising way of using biogas is to upgrade it to natural gas, which is referred to as Substitute Natural Gas (SNG) or biomethane. Biomethane, or biogas, is produced by biological processes of harnessing the ability of microorganisms to degrade organic material to methane. Some of the microorganisms are aerosolized from the digester into the biogas; afterwards a bio-film is formed that attaches to the surfaces of the distribution pipes, and can find it was to the place where the end use of biogas takes place. This paper deals with the detection of microbial species in biogas, their influenceon corrosion and the potential risk that diseases can be spread via biogas using molecular techniques. Using molecular methods, we found that raw biogas contains about 8 million microorganisms per m3, which is most likely the result of microbial transmission from the anaerobic digestion process. Some bacterial species may contribute to the corrosion of pipelines and equipment; others are opportunistic pathogens that can cause toxic reactions. However, most bacterial species, more than 40 % in biogas, are still unknown, as is their influence on the digestion process and on human health. Further studies are needed to better understand the behavior of microorganisms in anaerobic digestion and to preventmicrobial-influenced corrosion and microbial dissemination.
Application of Induction Heating for Brazing Parts of Solar Collectors
Authors: Demianová Kristína , Ožvold Milan , Turňa Milan
Published: March 2021

This paper reports on the application of induction heating for brazing parts of solar collectors made of Al alloys. The tube-flange joint is a part of the collecting pipe of a solar collector. The main task was to design an induction coil for this type of joint, and to select the optimum brazing parameters. Brazing was performed with AlSi12 brazing alloy, and corrosive and non-corrosive flux types were also applied. The optimum brazing parameters were determined on the basis of testing the fabricated brazed joints by visual inspection, by leakage tests, and by macro- and micro-analysis of the joint boundary. The following conditions can be considered to be the best for brazing Al materials: power 2.69 kW,brazing time 24 s, flux BrazeTec F32/80.
Determination of Uncertainties for Correlated Input Quantities by the Monte Carlo Method
Authors: Goliaš Marcel , Palenčár Rudolf
Published: March 2021

This paper presents the calculation of the uncertainty for distribution propagation by the Monte Carlo method for a measurement model with one output quantity. The procedure is shown on the basis of an example of the calculation of a rectangle by direct measurement of length by the same caliper. The measurements are correlated, and the uncertainties are calculated for three values of the correlation coefficients. Another part of the paper presents a validation of the law of propagation of uncertainties for distribution propagation by the Monte Carlo method.
Creating a Multi-axis Machining Postprocessor
Authors: Vavruška Petr
Published: March 2021

This paper focuses on the postprocessor creation process. When using standard commercially available postprocessors it is often very difficult to modify its internal source code, and it is a very complex process, in many cases even impossible, to implement the newly-developed functions. It is therefore very important to have a method for creating a postprocessor for any CAM system, which allows CL data (Cutter Location data) to be generated to a separate text file. The goal of our work is to verify the proposed method for creating a postprocessor. Postprocessor functions for multi-axis machiningare dealt with in this work. A file with CL data must be translated by the postprocessor into an NC program that has been customized for a specific production machine and its control system. The postprocessor is therefore verified by applications for machining free-form surfaces of complex parts, and by executing the NC programs that are generated on real machine tools. This is also presented here.
The Simulation of the Influence of Water Remnants on a Hot Rolled Plate after Cooling
Authors: Zahradník Radek
Published: March 2021

In situations when a sheet metal plate of large dimensions is rolled, water remnants from cooling can be observed on the upper side of the plate. This paper focuses on deformations of a hot rolled sheet metal plate that are caused by water remnants after cooling. A transient finite element simulation was used to describe shape deformations of the cross profile of a metal sheet. The finite element model is fully parametric for easy simulation of multiple cases. The results from previous work were used for the boundary conditions.
An Application of the Individual Channel Analysis and Design Approach to Control of a Two-input Two-output Coupled-tanks System
Authors: Murray-Smith David J.
Published: March 2021

Frequency-domain methods have provided an established approach to the analysis and design of single-loop feedback control systems in many application areas for many years. Individual Channel Analysis and Design (ICAD) is a more recent development that allows neo-classical frequency-domain analysis and design methods to be applied to multi-input multi-output control problems. This paper provides a case study illustrating the use of the ICAD methodology for an application involving liquid-level control for a system based on two coupled tanks. The complete nonlinear dynamic model of the plant is presented for a case involving two input flows of liquid and two output variables, which are the depths of liquid in the two tanks. Linear continuous proportional plus integral controllers are designed on the basis of linearised plant models to meet a given set of performance specifications for this two-input two-output multivariable control system and a computer simulation of the nonlinear model and the controllers is then used to demonstrate that the overall closed-loop performance meets the given requirements. The resulting system has been implemented in hardware and the paper includes experimental results which demonstrate good agreement with simulation predictions. The performance is satisfactory in terms of steady-state behaviour, transient responses, interaction between the controlled variables, disturbance rejection and robustness to changes within the plant. Further simulation results, some of which involve investigations that could not be carried out in a readily repeatable fashion by experimental testing, give support to the conclusion that this neo-classical ICAD framework can provide additional insight within the analysis and design processes for multi-input multi-output feedback control systems.
Femoral Test Bed for Impedance Controlled Surgical Instrumentation
Authors: Brendle Christian , Niesche Annegret , Korff Alexander , Radermacher Klaus , Leonhardt Steffen
Published: March 2021

The risk for patients during the standard procedure of revision of cemented artificial hip joints is unsatisfactorily highdue to its high level of invasiveness and limited access to the operative field. To reduce this risk we are developing anImpedance Controlled Surgical Instrumentation (ICOS) system, which aims to establish real-time control during a BoneCement (BC) milling process. For this, the relationship between the thickness of the BC and its frequency-dependentelectrical impedance is used to estimate the residual BC thickness. The aim is to avoid unintended cutting of boneby detecting the passage of the BC/bone boundary layer by the milling head. In a second step, an estimation of theresidual BC thickness will be used to improve process control. As a first step towards demonstrating the feasibility ofour approach, presented here are experimental studies to characterize the BC permittivity and to describe the process indetail. The results show that the permittivity properties of BC are dominated by its polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)fraction. Thus, PMMA can be used as a substitute for future experiments. Furthermore, a Femoral Test Bed (FTB) wasdesigned. Using this setup we show it is feasible to accurately distinguish between slightly different thicknesses of BC.
Energy Estimation of Distributed Phase-shift Beamforming
Authors: Černý Viktor
Published: March 2021

Ad-hoc and sensor networks are composed of small, low-power devices, which can connect between themselves without the help of an infrastructure. Research in this area has been both extensive and intensive and is still very far from exhaustion. Our work in this area is aimed at developing a new type of communication between groups of modules capable of connecting clusters (groups) of devices which are separated by distances greater than the maximum transmission range of the devices themselves, without the help of relays or signal repeaters. In this paper we study the energy requirements for bidirectional communication between two clusters separated by a distance greater than the maximum transmission range of the modules, in the classic way (with the use of repeaters or relays) and by applying distributed phase-shift beamforming.
Model of Customer Buying Behavior in the CZ Mobile Telecommunication Market
Authors: Grünwald Ondrej
Published: March 2021

The Czech mobile telecommunication market constitutes an oligopoly of three operators, who have built a privileged position and effectively crush any competition. The entry of a new operator has been considered by the government since the end of 2009. The new mobile operator should push down the prices of services, which are the highest in Europe and also affect the development of new mobile services. This paper analyzes consumer behavior in the mobile telecommunication market. It reveals how different elements are considered by customers and what is important when choosing a mobile tariff. With use conjoint analysis, we obtained empirical arguments about the preferences of customersin the Czech Republic. The analysis shows that the relatively high price of services greatly reduces the unsaturated demand in the mobile telecommunication market, and proves that the price is crucial in customer decision-making.
A Network Simulation Tool for Task Scheduling
Authors: Votava Ondřej
Published: March 2021

Distributed computing may be looked at from many points of view. Task scheduling is the viewpoint, where a distributed application can be described as a Directed Acyclic Graph and every node of the graph is executed independently. There are, however, data dependencies and the nodes have to be executed in a specified order. Hence the parallelism of the execution is limited. The scheduling problem is difficult and therefore heuristics are used. However, many inaccuracies are caused by the model used for the system, in which the heuristics are being tested. In this paper we present a tool for simulating the execution of the distributed application on a “real” computer network, and try to tell how the executionis influenced compared to the model.
Energetic Approach to Large Strain Gradient Crystal Plasticity
Authors: Kratochvíl Jan , Kružík Martin
Published: March 2021

We formulate a problem of the evolution of elasto-plastic materials subjected to external loads in the framework of large deformations and multiplicative plasticity. We focus on a spontaneous inhomogenization interpreted as a structuralization process. Our model includes gradients of the plastic strain and of hardening variables which provide a relevant length scale of the model. A simple computational experiment interpreted as a hint of a deformation substructure formation is included.
A Micromechanics-Based Model for Stiffness and Strength Estimation of Cocciopesto Mortars
Authors: Nežerka Václav , Zeman Jan
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this paper is to propose an inexpensive micromechanics-based scheme for stiffness homogenization and strength estimation of mortars containing crushed bricks, known as cocciopesto. The model utilizes the Mori-Tanaka method for determining the effective stiffness, combined with estimates of quadratic invariants of the deviatoric stresses inside phases to predict the compressive strength. Special attention is paid to the representation of the C-S-H gel layer around bricks and the interfacial transition zone around sand aggregates, which renders the predictions sensitive to particlesizes. Several parametric studies are performed to demonstrate that the method correctly reproduces the data and trends reported in the available literature. Moreover, the model is based exclusively on parameters with a clear physical or geometrical meaning, and as such it provides a convenient framework for its further experimental validation.
Geometrical Modeling of Concrete Microstructure for the Assessment of ITZ Percolation
Authors: Rypl Daniel , Bým Tomáš
Published: March 2021

Percolation is considered to be a critical factor affecting the transport properties of multiphase materials. In the case of concrete, the transport properties are strongly dependent on the interfacial transition zone (ITZ), which is a thin layer of cement paste next to aggregate particles. It is not computationally simple to assess ITZ percolation in concrete, as the geometry and topology of this phase is complex. While there are many advanced models that analyze the behavior of concrete, they are mostly based on the use of spherical or ellipsoidal shapes for the geometry of the aggregate inclusions. These simplified shapes may become unsatisfactory in many simulations, including the assessment of ITZ percolation. This paper deals with geometrical modeling of the concrete microstructure using realistic shapes of aggregate particles, the geometry of which is represented in terms of spherical harmonic expansion. The percolation is assessed using the hard core – soft shell model, in which each randomly-placed aggregate particle is surrounded by a shell of constant thickness representing ITZ.
OOFEM — an Object-oriented Simulation Tool for Advanced Modeling of Materials and Structures
Authors: Patzák Bořek
Published: March 2021

The aim of this paper is to describe the object-oriented design of the finite element based simulation code. The overall, object-oriented structure is described, and the role of the fundamental classes is discussed. The paper discusses the advanced parallel, adaptive, and multiphysics capabilities of the OOFEM code, and illustrates them on the basis of selected examples.
Synthesis of Mechanisms by Methods of Nonlinear Dynamics
Authors: Valášek Michael , Šika Zbynek
Published: March 2021

This paper deals with a new method for parametric kinematic synthesis of mechanisms. The traditional synthesis procedure based on collocation, correction and optimization suffers from the local minima of objective functions, usually due to the local unassembled configurations which must be overcome. The new method uses the time varying values of the synthesized dimensions of the mechanism as if the mechanism had elastic links and guidances. The time varying dimensions form the basis for an accompanying nonlinear dynamical dissipative system and the synthesis is transformed into the time evolution of this accompanying dynamical system. Its dissipativity guarantees the termination of thesynthesis. The synthesis always covers the parametric kinematic synthesis, but it can be advantageously extended into the optimization of any further criteria. The main advantage of the method described here for dealing with mechanism synthesis is that it overcomes the unassembled configurations of the synthesized mechanisms and enables any further synthesis criteria to be introduced, and terminates due to dissipation of the accompanied dynamical system.
A Numerical Study of Wind Flow Over a Coal Storage Shelter
Authors: Bodnár Tomáš , Beneš Ludek , Pirkl Luboš , Gulíková Eva
Published: March 2021

This paper presents some of the main numerical results obtained while simulating the wind flow over a shelter covering a coal storage. The aim of this numerical study was to evaluate the change in flow patterns caused by adding an impermeable wall to the originally open shelter. The numerical simulations of selected two-dimensional cases were performed using an open-source CFD code. The flow model is based on Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes Equations solved using a finite-volume method on a structured grid. The turbulence is parametrized using the standard k − ε model. Two shelter wall configuration variants are evaluated, and are compared with the original open shelter setup.
Basic considerations on the practical method for predicting sound insulation performance of a single-leaf window
Authors: Tsukamoto Yohei , Sakagami Kimihiro , Okuzono Takeshi , Tomikawa Yoshihiro
Published: March 2021

As a basic study of a practical method for predicting sound insulation performance of windows, this report presents a study of the sound reduction index of windows with single glazing below a critical frequency. First, results calculated by an existing theory for a single plate for the sound reduction indices are compared with measured results of actual windows to assess the theory’s applicability for evaluating the sound insulation performance of windows. Next, a regression analysis is employed to measured results of a certain number of actual windows to explore a further development of a more practical prediction. The following findings were obtained: (1) Sound reduction indices of actual fixed windows are predictable using Sewell’s transmission theory for a single plate. However, sound reduction indices of openable windows, especially those of sliding windows, are affected strongly by window frame gaps. Therefore, predicting sound reduction indices of all windows accurately is difficult if using only one theory. (2) The frequency slope of the window reduction index is much lower than that of the mass law. Regression analyses indicate that the frequency slope of the reduction index of all examined windows is 3.0 dB per octave, on average.
PELAYANAN BPJS KESEHATAN: Persepsi Masyarakat Kampung Pengok PJKA Demangan Gondokusuman Yogyakarta
Authors: Suisyanto Suisyanto , Solechah Siti
Published: March 2021

This article discusses the services of Health Social Security Administering Bodies (BPJS) Kesehatan. The purpose of this study is to determine the perceptions of the urban poor in the service of BPJS Kesehatan. In this study, the authors used a qualitative method with a case study model. The results showed that in society there are two perceptions of BPJS Kesehatan, namely positive perceptions and negative perceptions. Positive perceptions include: BPJS Kesehatan greatly eases payments, BPJS services are very friendly and familiar, BPJS health insurance cards are very beneficial, Negative perceptions include: less than optimal socialization, long administrative processes, and not all types of diseases are covered by BPJS. In addition, BPJS has a complicated administrative process and long queuing time, limited personnel serving, limited personnel serving, not all costs can be borne by BPJS, and it is difficult to pay installments (economy).
Uso de herramientas predictivas en el manejo de pacientes COVID-19: el papel fundamental de los laboratorios clínicos
Authors: Martín Grau Carla , Benavent Bofill Clara , Picó-Plana Ester , Recio Comí Gemma , Terrón-Puig Margarida , Bastón Paz Natalia , Sans Mateu MaTeresa , Gutiérrez Fornés Cristina
Published: March 2021

Objetivos

La enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) se ha extendido por todo el mundo, representando una grave amenaza para la salud mundial. En la lucha contra esta pandemia, los hospitales provinciales necesitan diagnosticar rápidamente a los pacientes con COVID-19 para evitar colapsar los servicios de urgencias. Sin embargo, la elevada demanda de pacientes con síntomas respiratorios agudos impide el envío rápido de los resultados de la prueba de referencia la rRT-PCR, para la identificación de neumonía por COVID-19-positiva. El objetivo principal de este artículo es la identificación de indicadores clínicos útiles para complementar las pruebas rRT-PCR y ayudar a controlar este brote.

Métodos

Se analizaron parámetros hemáticos, de coagulación e inflamatorios en 309 pacientes con resultados de rRT-PCR negativos (128) y positivos (181). Se clasificó como positivos a aquellos pacientes con una prueba diagnóstica molecular positiva.

Resultados

Se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en el recuento de leucocitos (WBC), recuento de neutrófilos, recuento de linfocitos y lactato deshidrogenasa (LDH). El cociente LDH/WBC aumenta el rendimiento diagnóstico, habiendo mostrado la mejor AUC (0,783) y sensibilidad (82%) así como el mejor porcentaje (80,5%) de pacientes COVID-19 correctamente identificados.

Conclusiones

La combinación del cociente LDH/WBC junto con las características clínicas de la enfermedad podría resultar útil en el manejo de los pacientes y mejorar los recursos técnicos de los hospitales, especialmente en un escenario crítico en el que escasean los equipos y reactivos necesarios para realizar las rRT-PCR.
Skepticism and Credulity: A Model and Applications to Political Spin, Belief Formation, and Decision Weights
Authors: Campbell James David
Published: March 2021

In this paper I model a decision maker who forms beliefs and opinions using a dialectic heuristic that depends on their degree of skepticism or credulity. In an application to political spin, two competing parties choose how to frame commonly observed evidence. If the receiver is sufficiently credulous, equilibrium spin is maximally extreme and generates short, superficial news cycles. When receivers vary in their skepticism, there is partisan sorting by skepticism parameter: the more credulous group systematically favors one party and displays hostility to evidence and a media they see as biased. In behavioral applications in which the frames arise from the decision maker’s internal deliberation, a decision maker with the same credulous nature would display known behavioral anomalies in forming beliefs and forming decision weights from stated probabilities. The dialectic model therefore captures a simple psychological mechanism and matches closely some stylized facts across these three disparate applications.
Elucidating the anti-biofilm and anti-quorum sensing potential of selenocystine against respiratory tract infections causing bacteria: in vitro and in silico studies
Authors: Patel Bharti , Mishra Subrata , Priyadarsini Indira K. , Vavilala Sirisha L.
Published: March 2021

Bacteria are increasingly relying on biofilms to develop resistance to antibiotics thereby resulting in their failure in treating many infections. In spite of continuous research on many synthetic and natural compounds, ideal anti-biofilm molecule is still not found thereby warranting search for new class of molecules. The current study focuses on exploring anti-biofilm potential of selenocystine against respiratory tract infection (RTI)-causing bacteria. Anti-bacterial and anti-biofilm assays demonstrated that selenocystine inhibits the growth of bacteria in their planktonic state, and formation of biofilms while eradicating preformed-biofilm effectively. Selenocystine at a MIC50 as low as 42 and 28 μg/mL effectively inhibited the growth of Klebsiella pneumonia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The antibacterial effect is further reconfirmed by agar cup diffusion assay and growth-kill assay. Selenocystine showed 30–60% inhibition of biofilm formation in K. pneumonia, and 44–70% in P. aeruginosa respectively. It also distorted the preformed-biofilms by degrading the eDNA component of the Extracellular Polymeric Substance matrix. Molecular docking studies of selenocystine with quorum sensing specific proteins clearly showed that through the carboxylic acid moiety it interacts and inhibits the protein function, thereby confirming its anti-biofilm potential. With further validation selenocystine can be explored as a potential candidate for the treatment of RTIs.
Optimization and kinetic studies on cationic dye adsorption using textile yarn waste/Multiwall carbon nanotube nanofibrous composites
Authors: Swaminathan Subramanian , Imayathamizhan Nallammal Muthupaiyan , Muthumanickam Andiyappan , Moorthi Pooncholai
Published: March 2021

Polyacrylonitrile yarn hard waste and multiwall carbon nano-tubes nanofibrous mat was prepared by the electrospinning technique. The nanofibrous composite mats were characterized using thermo-gravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, FT-Raman, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Adsorption studies were conducted with various physical and chemical parameters such as contact time, solution pH and initial dye concentration. The maximum methylene blue dye removal efficiency of nanofibrous composite was found to be 73.4%at optimized pH 10. The pseudo-second order kinetics and Freundlich isotherm are suitable for methylene blue dye adsorption of nanofibrous composite.
Carvedilol improves heart rate variability indices, biomarkers but not cardiac nerve density in streptozotocin-induced T2DM model of diabetic cardiac autonomic neuropathy
Authors: Akinlade Olawale Mathias , Owoyele Bamidele , Soladoye Olufemi Ayodele
Published: March 2021

Objectives

There has been increasing recognition of the significant relationship between the autonomic nervous system and cardiovascular sequel in diabetes mellitus (DM) patients. Diabetic cardiac autonomic neuropathy (DCAN) still poses a treatment challenge in the clinical settings despite several research interventions. This study was designed to investigate the effect of carvedilol on experimentally induced DCAN in type 2 DM rat model.

Methods

DCAN was induced in 42 Wistar rats using high fat diet (HFD) for eight weeks, thereafter streptozotocin (STZ) at 25 mg/kg daily for five days. DCAN features were then assessed using non-invasive time and frequency varying holter electrocardiogram (ECG), invasive biomarkers, cardiac histology and cardiac nerve density.

Results

Carvedilol significantly ameliorated the effects of DCAN on noradrenaline (p=0.010) and advanced glycated end products (AGEs) (p<0.0001). Similarly, carvedilol reversed the reduction in levels of antioxidants, sorbitol dehydrogenase (SD) activity (p=0.009) nerve growth factors (p<0.0001) and choline acetyl-transferase (p=0.031) following DCAN induction. Furthermore, heart rate variability (HRV) indices which were also reduced with DCAN induction were also ameliorated by carvedilol. However, carvedilol had no significant effect on cardiac neuronal dystrophy and reduced cardiac nerve densities.

Conclusions

Carvedilol improves physiological HRV indices and biomarkers but not structural lesions. Early detection of DCAN and intervention with carvedilol may prevent progression of autonomic neurologic sequel.
Causal analysis of fetal death in high-risk pregnancies
Authors: Aguinaga Mónica , Valdespino Yolotzin , Medina Daniela , Espino y Sosa Salvador , Sevilla Rosalba , Miranda Osvaldo , Acevedo Sandra , Monroy Irma E. , Helguera Addy C. , Pérez Javier , Mariscal Luisa F. , Murillo Mauricio R. , Lara Rosa M. , Armijos Jessica C. , Rogel Gabriela , Cardona Jorge A.
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To determine the causes of fetal death among the stillbirths using two classification systems from 22 weeks of gestation in a period of three years in high-risk pregnancies. This is a retrospective observational study.

Methods

The National Institute of Perinatal Health in Mexico City is a Level 3 care referral center attending high-risk pregnancies from throughout the country. The population consisted of patients with fetal death during a three-year period. Between January 2016 and December 2018, all stillbirths were examined in the Pathology Department by a pathologist and a medical geneticist. Stillbirth was defined as a fetal death occurring after 22 weeks of gestation.

Results

Main outcome measures: Causal analysis of fetal death using the International Statistical Classification of Disease and Related Health Problems-Perinatal Mortality (ICD-PM) and initial causes of fetal death (INCODE) classification systems. A total of 297 stillborn neonates were studied. The distribution of gestational age in antepartum stillbirths (55.2%) showed a bimodal curve, 36% occurred between 24 and 27 weeks and 32% between 32 and 36 weeks. In comparison, the majority (86%) of intrapartum deaths (44.8%) were less than 28 weeks of gestation. Of the 273 women enrolled, 93 (34%) consented to a complete fetal autopsy. The INCODE system showed a present cause in 42%, a possible cause in 54% and a probable cause in 93% of patients.

Conclusions

The principal causes of antepartum death were fetal abnormalities and pathologic placental conditions and the principal causes of intrapartum death were complications of pregnancy which caused a premature labor and infections.
Aktivität und Passivität des endlichen Seienden
Authors: Jahae Raymond
Published: March 2021

Ein Stein des Anstoßes im christlichen Denken über den Menschen ist die Lehre, dass er für sein Heil, ja sogar für seinen guten Willen restlos von Gott abhängig ist. Der vorliegende Artikel versucht diese Lehre philosophisch plausibel zu machen. Dazu wird zunächst aufgewiesen, dass die Welt und das, was in ihr geschieht, nicht von den Naturwissenschaften, sondern nur von der Theologie her erklärt werden können. Sodann wird gezeigt, dass auch die gewollte Tätigkeit des Menschen, auch und gerade die vollends gelungene, gewissermaßen sich ihm zum Trotz und in Abhängigkeit von Gott vollzieht. Schließlich wird die These von der Fremdbestimmtheit des Menschen sowohl im Guten als auch im Bösen durch philosophische Reflexion auf die Konstitution des menschlichen Subjekts untermauert. Seine Aktivität ist von je größerer Passivität umfangen. Da es sich im Kern seiner selbst seiner Macht entzieht, ist es für sein Heil auf Gottes Gnade angewiesen.
Sakrament als ein In-Erscheinung-Treten der Gabe des Lebens
Authors: Held Marcus
Published: March 2021

Ausgehend von der „Krise des Sakramentalen“ wird vorgeschlagen, das „Wie“ des Sakramentes, nicht das „Was“ neu zu erschließen. Dazu werden zunächst Grundzüge der Lebensphänomenologie von Michel Henry rekonstruiert, um anschließend Überlegungen im Versuch einer hermeneutisch-epistemologischen Anwendung das „Wie“ des Sakramentes als das In-Erscheinung-Treten des absoluten Lebens zu erschließen. Sakramente können damit als das In-Erscheinung-Tretens des Stiftungsereignisses des absoluten Lebens gedacht werden.
Water purification performance enhancement of PVC ultrafiltration membrane modified with tourmaline particles
Authors: Guan Runze , Yan Weixing , Yuan Jingjing , Feng Xia , Zhao Yiping
Published: March 2021

In this study, a novel PVC/tourmaline ultrafiltration membrane was fabricated by phase inversion method in order to improve anti-fouling performance and water quality. FESEM was used to examine the changes in the morphology of pure PVC and PVC/tourmaline hybrid membranes. The introduction of tourmaline resulted in the increase of porosity and mean pore size. EDX images indicated that tourmaline particles were homogeneously dispersed in the membranes when the amount were less than 1.0 wt%. The hybrid membranes exhibited lower contact angle (78.7°) and higher water flux (121.3 L/m2 h) than the pure PVC membrane. The anti-fouling performance of the membranes were studied by filtration of BSA solution. The results demonstrated that the hybrid membrane with 1.0 wt% tourmaline particles exhibited the best anti-fouling performance and the highest BSA rejection. In addition, the pH and conductivity of the filtered water were measured by pH meter and electrical conductivity meter. And the results showed that the quality of the filtered water was improved after treating through the hybrid membranes.
Gluten-free healthy snack with high nutritional and nutraceutical value elaborated from a mixture of extruded underutilized grains (quality protein maize/tepary bean)
Authors: Gutiérrez Dorado Roberto , Gómez Favela Mario Armando , Reyes Moreno Cuauthémoc , Milán Carrillo Jorge , Partida Preciado Rodolfo Alfredo , Espinoza Moreno Ramona Julieta , Preciado Ortiz Ricardo
Published: March 2021

An optimized gluten-free healthy snack (OGFHS) was developed from a mixture of protein quality maize/tepary bean (70:30), applying extrusion-cooking. The extrusion conditions were obtained from the axial combination of process variables (feed moisture content [FMC = 15%-25%]/extrusion temperature [ET = 120 °C-170 °C]/screw speed [SS = 50 rpm-240 rpm]). The desirability function response surface methodology was applied as an optimization technique in three response variables (expansion index [EI]/apparent density [AD]/hardness [H]) to obtain maximum EI and minimum AD and H. The best combination to produce OGFHS was FMC = 16.4%/ET = 137 °C/VT = 237 rpm. The optimized conditions to obtain OGFHS caused little change in the nutritional and nutraceutical properties of the unprocessed grains mixture. OGFHS (50 g) was compared with two commercial snacks (CheetosMR, TotisMR), showing better protein content, total dietary fiber and AoxA, as well as high acceptability and lower energy content than commercial snacks. Due to its great nutritional properties and AoxA,OGFHS could be used for health promotion and as an alternative to commercial snacks with low nutritional value and high energy content.
The Level of Independence Among Seniors with a History of Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Wróblewska Izabela , Dziechciaż Małgorzata , Wróblewska Zuzanna
Published: March 2021

Introduction. Stroke is currently among the most dangerous civilization diseases and the most common cause of death and secondary disability in people over 65 years of age. Disease-related disability significantly affects all spheres of human functioning, leading to dependence on third parties’ assistance. One of the most important activities to be undertaken in relation to a disabled patient is diagnosing the level of disability and implementing active efforts for the patient to regain optimal performance and/or accept the disability. Limitation in daily activities is a considerable stress factor that has a negative effect on the seniors’ recovery and becomes a cause of institutionalization.Aim. To investigate the impact of ischemic stroke on the level of independence in elderly people.Material and Methods. Medical records of 186 patients of a neurological ward were analysed. The majority of participants were women (55.91%), seniors aged 76–85 (36.02%), living in a city (55.38%) and being widowed (41.93%). The standardized Norton and Tinetti scales were applied in the analyses.Results. The most important factors influencing the incidence and course of stroke were the patient’s age and the presence of concomitant diseases: diabetes (81.72%) and arterial hypertension (73.65%). Among the stroke complications, the majority of patients presented aphasia (76.88%), hemiparesis (67.20%), dysphagia (63.44%) and urinary bladder dysfunction (60.21%). The study subjects were predominantly (86.56%) classified in the third category of care; 38.17% were referred for further rehabilitation in a post-hospital rehabilitation unit, 19.89% were referred to a medical care and treatment institution, and 19.36% died. The majority of the respondents achieved less than 14 points (77.96%) in the Norton scale and less than 19 points (34.41%) in the Tinetti scale.Conclusions. Ischemic stroke reduces or completely terminates the patient’s ability to function independently. The patient’s age is of greatest significance for the level of his independence and functioning immediately after ischemic stroke. (JNNN 2019;8(3):112–118)
Functioning of Patients with Myasthenia Gravis after Plasmapheresis
Authors: Biercewicz Monika
Published: March 2021

Introduction. Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease of the postsynaptic part of the neuromuscular junction. A characteristic symptom of myasthenia gravis is the so-called fatigability or muscle fatigue, which also affects the respiratory muscles. Plasmapheresis is one of the treatments that improve breathing and reduce the symptoms that cause muscle weakness.Aim. The aim of the study was to assess the functioning of patients with myasthenia gravis before and after plasmapheresis.Material and Methods. The research was conducted in 2019 in the Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care department on a group of 30 patients with clinically confirmed myasthenia gravis. The author’s questionnaire was used to assess the functioning of patients. The research was approved by the Bioethics Committee.Results. The patient’s condition improved after the procedure in each of the analysed areas of functioning (physical activity, movement, breathing, swallowing, mood, social functioning). The plasmapheresis most preferably affected the area of physical activity of the subjects. The conducted statistical analysis proved a significant difference (p = 0.000) for all results, in every aspect (before and after the procedure). At the same time, the highest average increase was observed in relation to physical activity — an increase of 3.17 points.Conclusions. Plasmapheresis had a positive effect on patients’ health in both physical and mental aspects. (JNNN 2019;8(4):143–147)
Evaluation of the Results of Therapeutic Management of Patients Treated Endovascularly for Cerebral Aneurysm
Authors: Jabłońska Renata , Bielewicz Marta
Published: March 2021

Introduction. Intracranial aneurysm is the most common type of brain vascular defects. Their treatment is based on excluding vascular malformation from circulation. Endovascular methods are being performed more and more often.Aim. Evaluation of the results of therapeutic management of patients treated endovascularly for cerebral aneurysm.Material and Methods. The study involved 49 patients with a diagnosed brain aneurysm qualified for endovascular treatment (embolization, stent). Standardized research tools were used: GCS, H&H, GOS, SWF. The examination was carried out twice on one patient: on the day of admission and discharge from the ward. The collected material was statistically processed.Results. Most of the respondents were women — 74%. Almost 61% of patients had non-cracked aneurysm. In 41% embolization was performed, and in 39% embolization with a stent. The aneurysm site was associated with the GCS score at discharge χ²(8) = 15.64; p < 0.05; V = 0.40. Marital status was associated with SWF in the assessment 2: χ²(9) = 19.18; p < 0.05; V = 0.36. The state of consciousness of the patients had no significant impact on the scope of their functioning: GCS Z = 0.42; p = 0.675 and SWF Z = 0.40; p = 0.689.Conclusions. The clinical condition of patients with cerebral aneurysm varies depending on the stage of treatment, admission mode and type of aneurysm. Only the professional situation and marital status of the examined persons influenced the functional state and the final assessment of patients’ treatment. (JNNN 2020;9(1):3–11)
Assessment of the Functional Status of Patients with Ischaemic Stroke Receiving Thrombolytic Treatment
Authors: Hebel Kazimiera , Kowiański Przemysław , Rogoza Katarzyna
Published: March 2021

Introduction. Intravenous thrombolysis is a gold standard in the treatment of acute ischaemic stroke. It causes reperfusion in the region of ischaemia and as a result it has a positive effect on functional outcomes of patients. The sooner this treatment is introduced the higher efficacy can be expected.Aim. The study objective was to assess the functional status of patients with ischaemic stroke, undergoing thrombolytic treatment and the incidence of thrombolysis complications.Material and Methods. Retrospective studies were conducted on a group of 109 patients hospitalised due to ischaemic cerebral stroke and qualified for thrombolytic treatment. The functional status was assessed with the use of the modified Rankin Scale and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scales on admission and discharge day. The study group included 55 males and 54 females (respectively: 50.5% and 49.5% of the total study population). The subject age was between 32 and 96 years, with the mean age of 69.8.Results. The average time between the onset of symptoms and initiation of thrombolytic treatment was 182 minutes. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale at the moment of qualification for treatment was 10.11 points, and the Rankin Scale was 2.88 points. On the day of discharge, the values were 5.81 and 2.05, respectively. A statistically significant (p < 0.0001) improvement in the functional status was observed in the group of patients who had no intra cerebral haemorrhage after thrombolysis. The most common complication of thrombolytic treatment was haemorrhagic transformation of the ischaemic stroke focus — 27 cases (24.77%). Death occurred in 9 subjects (8.26% of total), including 6 cases in males (10.91% of males) and was related to haemorrhagic transformation of the ischaemic stroke focus (p = 0.000).Conclusions. The implemented treatment of stroke resulted in improvement of the functional status. The most frequent complication was haemorrhagic conversion of stroke. (JNNN 2020;9(1):12–19)
In-hospital Mortality Among Neurological Patients over the Period of 5 years — a Retrospective, Single-center Study
Authors: Wiśniewski Adam
Published: March 2021

Introduction. Neurological disorders have been considered for many years dangerous and are associated with higher risk of in-hospital death. Brain vascular disorders are widely considered as the most severe and related to the highest mortality rate.Aim. The aim of the study was to assess the mortality rate in subjects hospitalized in the Neurology ward within 5 years, in particular the etiology, direct cause and predictability of deaths.Material and Methods. This study is retrospective. The documentation analysis concerned the last 5 years, i.e. from 2015 to 2019. From among the entire database of 8247 patients hospitalized in the Neurology Clinic of the University Hospital No. 1 in Bydgoszcz, 429 deaths were reported and analyzed.Results. The mortality rate was 5.2% among all subjects, 6.6% among all vascular patients and 1.16% among non-vascular subjects. The highest mortality was reported among hemorrhagic stroke (28.4%) and it was significantly higher compared to ischemic stroke (OR = 6.25, 95% CI 4.9–7.8, p < 0.0001). Patients with stroke had significantly higher mortality compared to other neurological disorders (OR = 11.08 95% CI 7.7–15.9, p < 0.0001). The main direct reason of death (80%) was primary cerebral as a result of baseline disease. 7% of deaths were considered as sudden, unexpected and 10.7% were related to complications developed during hospitalization.Conclusions. Stroke, especially hemorrhagic subtype, still remains the cause of the highest in-hospital mortality rate in the Neurology Ward. It is worth to notice that special attention should be paid to patients with coexisting infectious diseases, that contribute to higher mortality risk. (JNNN 2020;9(1):20–26)
Problems with the Care of a Patient with Huntington’s Disease Hospitalised in a Psychiatric Ward — Case Report
Authors: Gołębiewska Katarzyna , Górna Krystyna , Jaracz Krystyna
Published: March 2021

Introduction. Huntington’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease, autosomal dominant inherited, characterised by a slow death of central nervous system cells. One of the most common causes of death is suicide.Aim. The aim of the paper is to present the problems and needs of a patient with Huntington’s disease, hospitalised psychiatrically because of organic mood disorders.Case Report. The case report concerns a 60-year-old patient with Huntington’s disease who, due to suicidal thoughts and tendencies, was admitted to the psychiatric ward. The paper presents selected care problems observed in the patient.Discussion. Almost every patient with Huntington’s disease experiences psychiatric symptoms. They appear at different stages of the disease. The described patient, hospitalised psychiatrically, experienced mental and somatic problems. The main objectives of nursing care were to reduce or eliminate the identified problems, mainly to ensure safety and improve functioning. Interventions included, in particular, close observation, assistance in self-care activities, motivating the patient to exercise and perform tasks independently, care in the event of fever, education on sleep hygiene.Conclusions. Patient care problems were related to mental and somatic disorders, in particular suicidal thoughts and tendencies and fever, difficulties in sleeping, moving and passing urine. The main nursing interventions included close observation and a holistic approach in collaboration with all members of the therapeutic team. The patient was discharged in a good general condition, in a balanced mood, without suicidal thoughts. He did not attempt suicide during hospitalisation. (JNNN 2020;9(1):33–38)
Persistent Fever and Nursing Care in Neurosurgical Patients
Authors: Turan Nuray , Çulha Yeliz , Gülsün-Özdemir Aydın , Kaya Hatice
Published: March 2021

Fever negatively affects the recovery of the brain following neurosurgical operation and prolongs the length of stay in the neurosurgery intensive care unit. Accordingly, it is necessary to deliver nursing care as indicated by the evidence regarding the management of fever in neurosurgical patients. The management of body temperature requires teamwork. Each healthcare professional in the team should select appropriate cooling methods, provide an acceptable cooling rate, manage shivering, and monitor the patient closely, with a multidisciplinary perspective. In this context, the present article discusses the causes of fever, its incidence, treatment and care practices for neurosurgical patients and proposes evidence-based recommendations for practice upon the review of the international guidelines. (JNNN 2020;9(2):80–85)