bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of VCO and Castor Oil Concentrations on Physicochemical Properties of Patikan Kebo (Euphorbia hirta) Liquid Handsoap
Authors: Nugroho Ardi , Akromah Putri , Wibowo Ari , Nafiah Zahrotun
Published: April 2021

This study aimed to investigate the impact of VCO and castor oil compositions on the physicochemical properties of liquid soap from patikan kebo (Euphorbia hirta) extract and compare it with the marketed liquid hand-soap. The liquid hand-soap was manufactured by adding patikan kebo extract with VCO and castor oil as fatty acid sources. The concentration of VCO and castor oil were varied in 5 formula with ratio 1 : 0, 3 : 1, 1 : 1, 1 : 3, and 0 : 1 of 200 mL of soap perspectively. Several tests such as organoleptic inspection, homogeneity, density, viscosity, foam volume and stability, pH, insoluble materials, free fatty acids, total active ingredients, and total plate number, were performed to determine the physicochemical properties of prepared handsoap. The results of the five formulas were known to the greater VCO the higher the viscosity and percent height of foam, the greater the castor oil the higher the value of specific gravity The five liquid soap formulas produced meet the requirements of SNI 2588-2017. The second liquid soap formula with a ratio of VCO and castor oil 3: 1 was declared to be the best product with free fatty acid 0.78%, pH 8.31, total active ingredient 24.3%, ethanol insoluble material 0.29%, specific gravity 1.09 g/mL, foam high stability 82.85%, and no colonies in testing the Total Plate Figures. It can be concluded that variations in the concentration of VCO and castor oil may affect the physicochemical properties of liquid soap for hand washing extracted from Patikan kebo.
Stability of Warfarin in Spiked-Saliva Using the Fluorometric HPLC Method
Authors: Ningrum Vitarani Dwi Ananda , Dewi Levia Chitra , Wibowo Ari
Published: April 2021

Warfarin is an anticoagulant with a narrow therapeutic index ranging from 1-10 µg/mL as well as the ability to distribute into saliva. Therefore, saliva can be selected as an alternative biological fluid in warfarin bioanalysis of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) since it is easier and more acceptable, particularly among pediatric and geriatric patients. Stability is an important part of the bioanalysis of warfarin in TDM services. This study aims to conduct a stability of warfarin in spiked-saliva using Fluorometric HPLC at an excitation wavelength of 310 nm and 390 nm emission. Analytes were separated using phosphate buffer:methanol as the mobile phase with a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min and an injection volume of 20µL as well as 150mmx4.5mm C18 as the stationary phase. The standard curve of warfarin with a concentration range of 0-20 ng/mL resulted in a correlation coefficient of 0.999. This study showed that the warfarin stock solution was stable at both 25°C and 4°C for 24 hours and 21 days, respectively. Meanwhile, warfarin in the saliva matrix also remained stable at 25°C for 24 hours and in a storage condition of -20°C for 21 days. In this research, the sample of saliva from patients administered with warfarin that has been treated with a maximum freeze-thaw cycle of 3-fold or 24 hours after preparation could consistently provide accurate data to be used as an approach to making a decision on dosage adjustment and diagnosis of warfarin toxicity in the clinical setting.
Chloride Salts of Triethyl- and Benzyl-Triethyl-Ammonium: A New Antifungal for Giant Bamboo (Dendrocalamus asper) Preservation
Authors: Mudzakir Ahmad , Fatimah Soja Siti , Sanjaya Yayan , Anwar Budiman , Miftahurrahman Gumilar
Published: April 2021

In this study, quarternary ammonium salts based on triethylammonium and benzyltriethylammonium cations with the anion of chloride are successfully used for giant bamboo (Dendrocalamus Asper) preservation. These salts are new biocides as well as new salts which penetrate bamboo well. The prepared salts with hydrogen and benzyl substituent at the cation and consisted of chloride anion, exhibited fungicidal activity against Aspergillus Flavus. The effective and lethal doses were measured by the agar-plate method. In their activity against bamboo degrading fungi, salt of benzyl-triethyl-ammonium chloride was comparable with commercially available benzalkonium chloride and didecyldimethylammonium. Keywords: Triethylammonium, Benzyltriethylammonium, chloride, antifungal, and giant bamboo (Dendrocalamus Asper) and Aspergillus Flavus
Effect of Composite Composition in Nanofiber for Degradation of Humic Acid Solution
Authors: Sativa Siti Oryza , Zulfikar Muhammad Ali , Suryandari Ervin Tri , Nasir Muhammad
Published: April 2021

One of the basic needs for human is clean water. Many lowlands and marshy areas in larger islands in Indonesia such as Sumatra and Kalimantan are the source of peat water. This type of water is harmful for people living in such areas and it cannot be used directly for drinking and living. According to the standard quality of good water, peat water does not meet the requirements as a source of water for daily life. Peat water is acidic, red-brownish coloured, and it contains higher organic matters especially humic acid and its derivatives. Photocatalysis process is one of the promising way to treat solution that contains humic acid. This research aims to pre-eliminary study activity of PVDF-TiO2/ZnO nanofiber for degradation of humic acid solution. Photocatalytic activities were studied inside photoreactor system with artificial UV radiation with 254 nm wavelength. The percentage of degradation after contacting humic acid solution to photocatalyst was determined by measuring humic acid solution before and after degradation by using UV-Vis spectrophotometer with maximum lambda in 219 nm. The rate constants were calculated and the results were 0,03909 min-1 and 0.02832 min-1 respectively for PVDF-4%TiO2/ZnO and PVDF-8%TiO2/ZnOnanofibers and it is in pseudo first order kinetic model.
Arrhenius Activation Energy Effect on a Stagnation Point Slippery MHD Casson Nanofluid Flow with Entropy Generation and Melting Heat Transfer
Authors: Yusuf Tunde Abdulkadir , Akaje Toyin Wasiu , Salawu Sulyman O. , Gbadeyan Jacob Abiodun
Published: April 2021

This study features the entropy generation analysis on a steady two-dimensional flow of an incompressible Casson fluid with heat and mass transfer over a heated linearly stretching surface is investigated using a modified Arrhenius activation energy. The appropriate model governing the physical phenomenon is converted into a dimensionless equation with the aid of appropriate transformation and are numerically solved using the spectral collocation method. The present research model is concerned to study the stagnation point slippery flow, heat, and mass transfer analysis of a Casson fluid flow past an elastic surface with the impact of a magnetic field. The study focuses on the influences of Arrhenius activation energy, melting heat transfer, and heat source on heat and mass transfer behavior posed by Casson fluid. The magnitude of skin becomes lesser for larger values of slip parameter while the rate of mass transfer is enhanced via greater values of the destructive chemical reaction. Also, an excellent agreement is shown with previous studies for the limiting case.
Capillary Rise and Oil Recovery under Primary Bjerknes Force Experienced by Bubbles
Authors: Samayoa Didier , de Luna E. Reyes , Ochoa-Ontiveros L.A. , Álvarez-Romero Liliana , Barbosa J.G. , Andrés Israel Miguel
Published: April 2021

A numerical study of forced imbibition into capillary tubes under primary Bjerknes force is presented. A mathematical model is developed to predict the motion of a meniscus while an external force is applied. Remarkable enhancement in liquid flow attributed to the frequency and intensity of a waveform on primary Bjerknes force and to the viscosity of fluid was observed. It was found that imbibition optimal frequency for each equilibrium height depends on the time as ω(xeq)∼emt, where the recovery time is a viscosity function t(xeq)∼μH. The results are presented in a set of curves, which reveal the features of enhanced oil recovery of the system under consideration. Some physical implications are discussed.
Interfacial Adhesion and Microstructure of Epoxy/Aluminium Particulate Nanocomposites
Authors: Bello Sefiu Adekunle , Agunsoye Johnson Olumuyiwa , Raji Nasirudeen Kolawole , Adebisi Jeleel Adekunle , Raheem Isiaka Ayobi , Hassan Suleiman Bolaji
Published: April 2021

Fibres anisotropy and their poor adhesion to the epoxy matrix are challenges in developing polymeric epoxy composite for structural applications. Filling of epoxy with reinforcing particles has potential for producing isotropic composites. In this study, epoxy-aluminium particulate composites were developed through combined-stir-techniques. Their interfacial adhesion and microstructural properties were examined. Results obtained indicated bonding of aluminium particles to epoxy through bidentate coordinate bond. Variations observed in the Fourier Transform Infrared spectrographs (FTIR) of both composites’ grades confirm discrepancies in interactions of aluminium micro and nanoparticles with epoxy. A good interfacial adhesion of aluminium nanoparticle with epoxy established by both optical and scanning electron microscopes is an indication of good mechanical performance of the epoxy composites.
Lightweight Panel for Building Construction Based on Honeycomb Paper Composite/Core-Fiberglass Composite/Face Materials
Authors: Nguyen Thuc Boi Huyen , Nguyen Hoc Thang
Published: April 2021

Lightweight panels for indoor constructions are typically made from composite materials with honeycomb and corrugated structures. The reinforcements are used in this study, one is fiberglass and the other is cellulose fiber, which cellulose from recycled paper. Experimental results indicate that the weight of honeycomb paper panel is light, only 13.6% of fiberglass composite and 32.6% of plywood. The presence of honeycomb structure has a significant effect on mechanical behaviors of composite panels. Both flexural and compressive strengths increase by replacing corrugated structure into honeycomb structure. During compression, the compressive strength and modulus of two-layer honeycomb/core panel are higher than those of monolayer honeycomb/core. Particularly, the honeycomb cell-wall thickness has a little effect on the weight, but has an important effect on mechanical properties. These results can be created low cost and lightweight environment-friendly panels by using recycled paper honeycomb structure.
A Study on Application of Markov Random Fields in Image Restoration and its Efficiency
Authors: Bandara S. M. G. S. , Yapage N.
Published: April 2021

Image restoration has been a popular and active field of research for decades. Images are destroyed when exposed to ‘noise’ which can occur due to physical contact or electrical/electronic interference. Here, Bayesian statistical techniques and Markov random field (MRF) theory were used to restore a black and white binary image corrupted by additive Gaussian noise with zero mean and constant variance. The binary image was used as a Markov random ﬁeld. An image is comprised of pixels and these pixels have a regular two-dimensional lattice structure. A matrix including ±1 values was generated randomly. It was represented and interpreted as an Ising model in Statistical Mechanics. The probability distribution of the Ising model was used as the prior distribution (a Gibbs or Boltzmann distribution). Likelihood function was obtained by using the random matrix and the observed corrupted image. Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method was used to simulate posterior distribution which again turns out to be a Gibbs or Boltzmann distribution. More specifically, Metropolis-Hastings algorithm which is one of the popular MCMC algorithms was used in this simulation. In this study, Peak Signal to Noise Ratio (PSNR) and Mean Squared Error (MSE) methods were used to measure the quality of restored images. MATLAB (R2013a (8.1.0.604)) was used to construct the program in this research work. Finally, high quality images were restored which were almost similar to the original image. A decrease in restored image quality was observed with the increase in noise. When the image size was increased, a higher number of iterations was required to obtain an acceptable level of quality in the restored image.
Fabrication of a customized impression metal jig for an implant-supported overdenture with a milled bar
Authors: Memari Yeganeh , Tadayonfard Azadeh , Fayaz Amir , Beyabanaki Elaheh
Published: April 2021

The use of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing technology simplifies the laboratory and clinical steps for the fabrication of implant prostheses. It also reduces additional costs for the prosthetic components and technical procedures. This article describes a modified impression technique using an impression metal jig to enhance the accuracy of final impression and also to eliminate the need for the try-in of resin pattern of the milled bar.
Ranking the soft skills of the dental profession based on the importance in job performance
Authors: Khajeghyasi Roghayeh Valipour , Liaghatdar Mohammad Javad , Nili Mohammad Reza , Shirazi Mandana
Published: April 2021

Background:

Soft skills are the key indicators of success and quality of performance in various professions, including the dental profession. The skills are the main tools for enhancing the quality of technical work in Dentistry. Hence, the aim of this study was to identify and prioritize the soft skills in dental profession.

Materials and Methods:

The study employed a mixed methods research. In the qualitative phase, the dental skills were identified using a semi-structured interview with faculty members and dental students. In the quantitative phase, the soft skills were prioritized with Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP). The data analysis was using Expert Choice software.

Results:

The results showed that the dental profession to improve the quality of performance needs to 29 soft skills in six categories. In professional ethics, work ethics (with weight of 0.212) and responsibility (0.188); in artistic skills, handicrafts (0.616); in cognitive skills, decision-making ability (0.290) and spatial thinking (0.249); in communication skills, verbal/nonverbal communication and listening (0.266), and patience (0.240); in individual characteristics, stress management (0.381) and self-esteem (0.260); and finally, in management skills, time management (0.481) are among the most important soft skills in dental profession.

Conclusion:

Identify and prioritize the soft skills can help to improve the quality of performance the dental profession. Therefore, it is recommended to integrate these skills into the dentistry curriculum. Moreover, by increasing the number of studies the essential backgrounds for developing soft skills in dentistry education will be provided.
Effect of accelerated aging and double application on the dentin bond strength of universal adhesive system
Authors: Bahari Mahmoud , Oskoee Siavash Savadi , Chaharom Mohammad Esmaeel Ebrahimi , Kahnamoui Mehdi Abed , Gholizadeh Sarah , Davoodi Farnaz
Published: April 2021

Background:

Despite the many advantages of simplified adhesive systems, there are concerns about the durability of the adhesive layer over time. The aim was to investigate the effects of various aging methods and double application of an adhesive layer on the bond strength of the universal adhesive system using etch-and-rinse (ER) and self-etch (SE) strategies.

Materials and Methods:

In this in vitro study, the occlusal enamel of 120 extracted, intact human third molars was removed to expose the dentin. Then, the samples were randomly divided into four groups of thirty according to All-Bond Universal (ABU) adhesive application strategy (ER and SE) and the number of adhesive layers (1 or 2). Then, each group was subdivided into three subgroups of ten according to aging method (control, thermal cycling, and 10% sodium hypochlorite [NaOCl]). The shear bond strength was measured at the strain rate of 0.5 mm/min. Data were analyzed using three-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc tests (P < 0.05).

Results:

The effect of adhesive application strategy (P < 0.001) and aging method (P < 0.001) on the bond strength was statistically significant, but the effect of the double application was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). In addition, the interactive effect of adhesive application strategy–aging method was significant (P = 0.005).

Conclusion:

Using ABU with ER strategy leads to higher dentin bond strength compared to the SE method in the control and thermal cycling groups. However, no significant differences were observed between ER and SE strategies after aging with the NaOCl. Furthermore, the double application might not have any effect on the bond strength and durability.
Effect of Rāja yoga Meditation on Psychological and Functional Outcomes in Spinal Cord Injury Patients
Authors: Chalageri Ekta , Vishwakarma Gayatri , Ranjan Randhir Lal , Govindaraj Ramajayam , Chhabra Harvinder Singh
Published: April 2021

Background:

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating disorder with dysfunction in daily activities and psychological consequences like anxiety as well as depression impacting the quality of life substantially. Existing treatments focus mainly on rehabilitation, symptom reduction, and secondary complications. However, psychological, social, and existential issues are least addressed in the prevailing models.

Aims:

To study the role of meditation in addressing psychological impairment and any resultant improvement in functional outcomes in SCI patients.

Methods:

Nonrandomized controlled study was conducted in a tertiary care center for SCI patients. Hospital inpatients were recruited into either experimental intervention group (add on easy rāja yoga with conventional rehabilitation-ER n = 50) or control intervention group (conventional rehabilitation alone-CR n = 50). Patients in the ER group received easy rāja yoga for 1 month, along with conventional rehabilitation and the CR group patients received only conventional rehabilitation. All the subjects were assessed for psychological (perceived stress scale [PSS], Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS]) and functional impairment (spinal cord independence measure (SCIM), numeric pain rating (NPR) and WHO quality of life-BRIEF (WHOQOLBREF)] at baseline and after 1 month.

Results:

After 1 month of add-on easy rāja yoga, there was significant decrease in the scores of HADS (F[1,88] = 272.92, P < 0.001), PSS (F[1,88] = 274.41, P < 0.001) and NPR (F[1,88] = 60.60, P < 0.001) and significant increase in the scores of WHOQOLBREF (F[1,88] = 349.94, P < 0.001) and SCIM (F[1,88] = 29.09, P < 0.001) in the ER group compared to CR group in analysis of covariance.

Conclusion:

One-month add-on easy rāja yoga improves psychological and functional outcomes (HADS, PSS, NPR, WHOQOLBREF and SCIM) in patients with SCI. Future studies with robust designs are needed to validate the results.
Effect of Yogasana Intervention on Standing Balance Performance among People with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Kanjirathingal Jinny P. , Mullerpatan Rajani P. , Nehete Girish , Raghuram Nagarathna
Published: April 2021

Background:

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is known to cause impaired balance and eventually increased risk of fall. Yogasanas characterized by slow, gentle transitions into postures with a varying base of support and focus on body awareness during movement hold potential for training balance control. Therefore, the current study aimed to evaluate effect of structured Yogasana intervention compared to conventional balance exercise on static and dynamic balance performance among people with diabetic neuropathy.

Methods

: Thirty-five people with DPN aged 42–70 years were recruited to Yogasana intervention group (n = 11), conventional balance exercises group (n = 10), and Control group (n = 14) following ethical approval. All participants were evaluated at baseline and post 12-week intervention on star excursion balance test, single-limb stance test, and center of pressure (CoP) excursion for balance performance, Modified fall efficacy scale for fear of falls and lower extremity strength using chair stand test and step-up test.

Results:

Balance performance (static and dynamic measured by star excursion balance test, single-limb stance test, and CoP excursion, lower extremity strength (using chair stand test and step-up test) demonstrated improvement and fear of fall reduced among Yogasana intervention group (p = 0.05) and conventional balance exercises group (p = 0.05) post 12-week intervention. CoP excursion increased in the control group indicating deterioration in balance performance after 12 weeks (p = 0.05). Post hoc comparison revealed that Yogasana intervention was marginally more effective in improving static and dynamic balance performance compared to conventional balance exercises in all variables of standing balance performance (p = 0.025).

Conclusion:

Yogasana and conventional balance exercises were effective in improving static and dynamic balance performance, lower extremity muscle strength, and reducing fear of fall among people with DPN. Yogasana intervention demonstrated marginally greater improvement in static and dynamic balance performance and lower extremity muscle strength compared to conventional exercise.
Tele-Yoga Therapy for Common Mental Health Disorders
Authors: Jagannathan Aarti , Bhide Shree Raksha , Varambally Shivarama , Chandra Prabha S. , Gangadhar B. N.
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

Tele-yoga is a cost-effective method of teaching yoga using cloud technology to relay from one source (trainer's venue) to multi-point video conferencing centers (participants' homes). However, there is a need to assess the tele-yoga trainer and the training itself to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Materials and Methods:

The Tele-Yoga Trainers Assessment (TYTA) tool was developed through (a) review of existing tools, (b) key informant interviews, and (c) validation by experts. It was tested for its feasibility in six persons with common mental disorders. A trained yoga therapist conducted tele-yoga therapy sessions which was webcast from NIMHANS Integrated Center for Yoga to NIMHANS Center for Well-Being for the first 15 days and to the respective homes of the participants using “Skype” in the remaining 15 days. Participants were assessed on (a) mental well-being, (b) satisfaction with overall health and were administered the (c) TYTA tool on the 1st, 15th, and 30th day.

Results:

The TYTA was easy to administer for assessing the performance of the yoga trainer. The qualitative case reports of individual participants depicted that over 30 days, mental well-being and satisfaction with overall health improved trainer's performance.

Conclusion:

Tele-yoga therapy is feasible with minimum technology and availability of good internet access at the relay and reception site. The trainer must be assessed for his/her suitability and be provided guidelines for achieving desired outcomes.
Estimation of Gestational Age by Ultrasound Measurement of Fetal Transcerebellar Diameter
Authors: Cinnusamy Maheswari , Shastri Deepti , Martina Josephine Arokia
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

Transcerebellar diameter (TCD) normogram predicts gestational age (GA) with an accuracy of 94% in the third trimester. The study aims to evaluate the application and accuracy of Transcerebellar diameter in determining the GA of the fetus and Its Correlation.

Material and Methods:

A cross-sectional prospective study conducted to determine the different antenatal ultrasound examinations were performed in 100 normal healthy pregnant with single fetus women having between 25 and 32 weeks of gestation.

Results:

Mothers mean GA on ultrasound was 28.4 ± 0.75 (27–30.2) weeks. The mean fetal biometry parameters including biparietal diameter (BPD) was 73 ± 2.3 mm (67–80), head circumference (HC) was 264 ± 8.7 mm (237.8–311), abdominal circumference (AC) was 244 ± 8.9 mm (226.6–265.9), femur length (FL) was 55 ± 2.1 mm (49.5–59.6), fetal heart rate was 149 ± 8.5 beats (121–175). The mean transcerebellar (TCD) measurement was 31 ± 1.1 mm. The correlation coefficient between the period of gestation and TCD was found to be 0.99 at 27–30 weeks which was statistically significant (P < 0.001) (r > 0.99).

Discussion and Conclusion:

From the present study, it was observed that the TCD increases linearly with GA. The correlation between GA and the GA by TCD seems to increase from 28 to 30 weeks. There is a good correlation between GA derived from TCD and from established biometric indices like BPD, HC, AC, and femur length.
Analysis of Vertical Forces in Children with down's Syndrome by Using Emed® Capacitance-Based Pressure Platform
Authors: Kakaraparthi Venkata Nagaraj , Gannamaneni Vamsi Krishna , Kakaraparthi Lalitha
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

This study aimed to analyze the vertical forces functioning under the plantar surface of the feet in children with and without Down's syndrome (DS) during walking using a capacitance-based pressure platform (emed®).

Material and Methods:

This is an observational study on 10 individuals with DS, (Group I) and 10 children without DS (Group II), aged 8–15 years. Both the groups were evaluated while standing on a capacitance-based pressure platform. Maximum force, peak pressure, contact time, and contact area parameters were assessed for both right and left foot. In this study, we assessed and compared these parameters in both the groups.

Results:

The results showed that the foot-ground interaction forces varied between the two groups. In particular, parameters such as maximum force, peak pressure, and contact area were statistically significant, where no significant difference was found concerning the contact time parameter.

Discussion and Conclusion:

The capacitance-based pressure platform (emed®) must be considered an essential evaluation tool for assessing vertical forces associated with children with DS. Thus, organizing regular monitoring of foot-ground reaction forces during the early years in DS children is suggested to prevent potential complications associated and decrease the probability of mobility impairments in adulthood.
Evaluation of Morphometric and Volumetric Measurements of Temporomandibular Joint Structures On Patients with Disc Displacement
Authors: Basaran Melike , Bozdemir Esin , Evrimler Sehnaz
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

To evaluate the morphometric and volumetric measurements of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) structures, of healthy, anterior disc displacement with reduction (ADDWR) and anterior disc displacement without reduction (ADDWoR) joints using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Material and Methods:

Fifty-two TMJs of 38 patients with TMJ disorders and 26 TMJs of 13 healthy patients were evaluated on MRI images. The disc length and volume, the condylar height, width and volume, and the height and inclination of the articular eminence were measured on MRI. A one-way analysis of variance was used to establish the differences between the values with regard to the ADDWR, ADDWoR, and control groups. The differences in the disc volumes of each group with respect to open and closed mouth position statuses were evaluated using the Bonferroni test.

Results:

The articular disc mean volume was larger in the control group than the other two groups for both the closed and open mouth positions (P < 0.05). There were statistically significant differences between the control group and the other two groups in terms of the condylar width and disc length (P = 0.00 and P = 0.001, respectively). The mean articular eminence inclination was the lowest in the ADDWoR group and the highest in the control group (P = 0.02).

Discussion and Conclusion:

Measurements of the disc volume, disc length, condylar width, and articular eminence inclination are associated with disc displacement (DD). Degenerative changes that may cause morphometric and volumetric changes in TMJ structures may be a marker of TMJ DD.
Breast Cancer Patients' Experiences of Psychological Distress, Hopelessness, and Suicidal Ideation
Authors: Oers Helena Van , Schlebusch Lourens
Published: April 2021

Background:

The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer often result in significant psychological distress. However, the manner in which distress differentially affects patients with various forms of disease is less well researched. This study sought to examine the differences in the psychological experiences of patients diagnosed with breast cancer and those diagnosed with cancer in other sites with particular focus on stress, anxiety, hopelessness, and suicidal ideation (SI).

Materials and Methods:

Convenience sampling was used to select participants comprising female patients with breast cancer (n = 80) and female patients with other forms of disease (n = 80) in Durban, South Africa. The participants were all receiving adjuvant chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. These participants were asked to complete a questionnaire battery consisting of, inter alia, the Beck Depression Inventory, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and the Stress Symptom Checklist.

Results:

The results suggest that although the levels of depression between the two groups did not show any significant differences, breast cancer patients experienced notably higher levels of hopelessness and SI. Moreover, they expressed their stress through different responses, both in psychological and behavioral terms, which resemble the symptomatology present in anxiety.

Conclusions:

Breast cancer patients experience higher levels of hopelessness and SI as compared to patients with other forms of disease and express their stress by differing means. This study highlights for those professionals in health care, specifically those involved in oncology, the prevalence and the characteristics of this distress and the importance of identifying at-risk patients to further refer them for supportive therapy.
Mentorship in anesthesia
Authors: Bin Ghali Khalid N. , AlSubaie Abdullah T. , Nawab Azzam A.
Published: April 2021

Context:

Mentorship is an integral part of the professional and academic growth; however, the position of mentorships in anesthesia is still yet to be understood. As an attempt to understand this phenomenon, we targeted Riyadh Anesthesiology residents and program directors to explore their perception of mentorship relationships.

Aims:

The aims of this study were to assess the prevalence of mentorship in anesthesiology training and to assess the perspective of mentorship from anesthesiology residents.

Settings and Design:

This was a cross-sectional study.

Methods and Material:

We administered a 20-item validated cross-sectional survey to program directors and anesthesia residents to all Riyadh SCFHS anesthesiology departments. Residents were asked about their perceptions of barriers and benefits to effective mentoring.

Statistical Analysis Used:

IBM SPSS version 23 and Microsoft Office Excel version 2010.

Results:

Fifty anesthesiology residents and three program directors responded to our survey. The majority of residents agreed that mentorship was beneficial to the overall success as an anesthesiologist (36 of 50, 72%). Although all three program directors reported that a formal mentorship program is part of their residency program (3 of 3, 100%), only (25 of 50, 50%) responded with access to a mentor. Difficulties reported included lack of formalized meeting times, insufficient times with mentors, and mentor-mentee incompatibility.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, the study indicated the positive perspective and high principles to mentorship held by anesthesiology residents in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It evidenced the beneficial, professional, and social impact that mentoring hails to the development of future anesthesiologists, and despite all that, it remains underutilized.
Gaps identification in Saudi anesthesia residency training during early time of pandemic
Authors: Bahaziq Wadeeah , Tayeb Baraa , Alzoraigi Usamah , Boker Abdulaziz
Published: April 2021

Background:

COVID-19 pandemic was declared a worldwide crisis, as a response the community established new protocols and clinical pathways to prepare the health system in adapting to the expected surge of cases.

Objectives:

In this study, we aim to assess the effect of the pandemic on the anesthesia training program residents from their own view. Identification of gaps in training programs will help to overcome the challenge like pandemic in order to have competent anesthesia practitioners.

Methods:

We deployed an online survey in early May 2020 targeting the anesthesia residents in Saudi Arabia. We used mixed methods, containing both quantitative and qualitative questions. Our survey had 3 main sections: demographics, pandemic effect on the training, and pandemic effect on the trainees.

Results:

Our survey showed that in the first 2 months of the pandemic there was a vast decrease in educational activities and clinical activities. However, after that both the Saudi Commission for Health Speciality (SCFHS) and local hospitals employed alternative education methods like electronic learning and simulation to adopt these changes. We also found the average stress level among residents was 6.5 out of 10 with number one stressor is transmitting Covid-19 to family or self. Finally, Wellbeing resources were available to residents however were not used sufficiently by residents.

Conclusion:

During times of pandemic, assessment and gap identification in postgraduate training programs are necessary to help overcome challenges of training anesthesiologists. Other than the clinical competency residents' wellbeing needs to be monitored and make available resources easy to reach for the residents.
The status of medical malpractice litigations in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almannie Raed , Almuhaideb Mana , Alyami Fahad , Alkhayyal Abdullah , Binsaleh Saleh
Published: April 2021

Context:

Medical malpractice is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Analyzing the current number of lawsuits and comparing it to previous years will help assess the status of medical malpractice litigations in Saudi Arabia.

Subjects and Methods:

A review and analysis of the annual statistics book of the Medico-Legal Committees (MLCs) in Saudi Arabia over the years (1437–1439 H) was conducted.

Results:

Over the 3-year study period, the total number of lawsuits was 3,684. The percentage of increase of malpractice lawsuits from 1437 until 1439 Hijri (2016–2018) was 26% (1,097–1,379 lawsuits). Obstetrics and Gynecology consistently had the highest number lawsuits compared to other specialties (25.6%), followed by dentistry (13.5%). Similarly, the rate of compensation after a lawsuit was highest in Obstetrics and Gynecology claims (62.7%), followed by dentistry (60%). The private healthcare sector consistently showed the highest number of lawsuits when compared to other healthcare providers, with a 73% increase over 3 years. The Ministry of Health showed an overall reduction in the number of lawsuits by 6.6% over the course of the study period.

Conclusions:

The number of lawsuits in Saudi Arabia is increasing rapidly. Understanding the reason for this is very important especially given the high rates of lawsuits for certain specialties and healthcare sectors. A root cause analysis cannot be conducted without a detailed reporting system for malpractice lawsuits; the development of which would help in research and the generation of solutions in this field.
Oral nutritional supplements (ONSs) for cirrhotic patients undergoing liver resection assessed by ultrasound measurement of rectus femoris and anterior tibialis muscles thickness. Randomized clinical trial
Authors: Ibrahim Eman S. , Houseni Mohamed
Published: April 2021

Purpose:

We evaluated the effects of postoperative administration of (ONSs) on the liver function and the outcome of cirrhotic patients using ultrasound (US) assessment of rectus femoris (RF) and anterior tibialis (AT) muscles.

Patients and Methods:

Forty-three malnourished adult hepatic patients who underwent major liver resections were recruited in this study. In the conventional diet (CD) group, the patients took water at postoperative day (POD) 0 and routine soft diet starting from POD1. In the ONS group, a commercially elemental diet was started from POD1 for 7 days postoperatively, with a target endpoint of 35-40 kcal/kg and 1.2-1.5 g/kg of protein per day. US assessment of the RF and AT muscles was done preoperatively and at POD3 and 7, including anterior-posterior (AP) diameter, lateral–lateral (LL) diameter, and cross-sectional area (CSA). Muscles' echogenicity was defined by the Heckmatt scale. The outcome of the patients was also recorded.

Results:

Consumption of ONS preserved the measured RF and AT characteristics (AP and LL diameters and CSA) in the ONS group at POD3 and 7 compared to the CD group. Heckmatt scale was significantly increased at POD3 and 7 in the CD group compared to the ONS group. Both total protein and albumin levels at POD3 and 7 were significantly lower in the CD group compared to the ONS group [P = (0.02, 0.03) and (0.05, 0.04), respectively]. Serum phosphate was significantly lower at POD7 in the ONS group than the CD group (p = 0.04). There were significant decreases in the ICU stay and time of passing flatus (h) in the ONS group comparing with the CD group (P = 0.045 and P = 0.00, respectively).

Conclusions:

ONS maintains muscle mass and echogenicity of RF and AT along with better liver function and intestinal function recovery.
Stereo Vision Based Pothole Detection System for Improved Ride Quality
Authors: Bangalore Ramaiah Naveen Kumar , Kundu Subrata
Published: April 2021

Stereo vision based sensing systems have gained significant attention during the last two decades due to its reliable and accurate obstacle detection and recognition capabilities. Such systems with advanced processing units are now widely used in partially automated vehicles to improve passengers’ safety and comfort level. A predictive suspension control system that could provide better ride comfort and safety to the passengers by detecting potholes in advance and control the suspension system accordingly has been investigated in this study. Potholes can become serious safety hazard and can often cause discomfort if not detected and maneuvered at the right time. In this paper, a novel stereo vision based pothole detection system is proposed that detects pothole and calculates its depth accurately. In this proposed system, region of interest (ROI) of potential pothole candidates are selected utilizing intensity image and disparity image which is created using a pair of stereo images captured by a stereo camera. An intensity-depth based classifier has been developed which identifies the potholes from selected candidates and calculates its depth. Finally, 3D information of detected potholes is used to control the damping coefficient of the suspension system to improve the ride quality. The performance of the proposed pothole detection system has been evaluated using approximately 3.5 hours of driving video data captured with a frame rate of 20 frames/second. Experimental results show that, the accuracy of the proposed pothole detection system is about 84% and can detect pothole with ≥ 5 cm depth. Moreover, in-vehicle experiments confirm that the ride quality can be improved of about 16% utilizing the pothole detection system. The proposed system can be implemented for real-time applications in commercial vehicles and could provide significant benefits by improving safety and ride quality.
1D-3D Online Coupled Transient Analysis for Powertrain-Control Integrated Thermal Management in an Electric Vehicle
Authors: Yi Heng , Deng Chenghao , Gong Xu , Deng Xing , Blatnik Michael
Published: April 2021

Thermal management in electric vehicles (EVs) has attracted more attention due to its increasing significance, and computer aided engineering (CAE) plays an important role in its development. A 1D-3D online coupling approach is proposed to completely characterize transient thermal performance of an electric vehicle on a high performance computer (HPC) platform. The 1D thermal management model, consisting of air conditioning, motor cooling and battery cooling systems, is integrated with the 1D control strategy model and powertrain model consisting of motor, battery, driver and vehicle models. The 3D model is established for the air flow around the full vehicle and through its underhood. The 3D model gives boundaries such as heat exchanger air flowrates and heat flows on some component surfaces to the 1D model, while 1D gives back boundaries such as heat exchanger heat loads, component surface temperatures and fan speed simultaneously. In this way, a complete closed-loop coupling is realized and no input boundary condition is required in the 1D-3D model for a certain road map. Realization of the 1D-3D online coupling method on an HPC platform is introduced, since it’s necessary for the simulations to be completed in a reasonable time period. For typical driving cycles including WLTC(35°C), NEDC(35°C) and 120kph(35°C), transient simulations are performed and the results are discussed. The simulation results reasonably reflect variations of the physical parameters, which proves the 1D-3D online coupling method to be useful tool, especially at early stages of development. At the next stage, full vehicle experiments will be performed to calibrate parameters including coolant temperatures and flowrates, component temperatures, refrigerant temperatures and pressures, as well as component electric consumptions of the 1D-3D model, which will be discussed in another paper due to space limitation.
Prediction of Spark Timing to Achieve a Specified Torque Profile in Spark-Ignition Engines Using Time-Dependent Metamodeling
Authors: Tafreshi Ali , Mourelatos Zissimos
Published: April 2021

The internal combustion engine is a source of unwanted vibration on the vehicle body. The unwanted vibration comes from forces on the engine mounts which depend on the engine torque during a transient maneuver. In particular, during a tip-in or a tip-out maneuver, different torque profiles result in different magnitudes of vibration. A desired engine torque shape can be thus obtained to minimize the unwanted vibration. The desired torque shape can be achieved by controlling a set of engine calibration parameters. This paper provides a methodology to determine the spark timing profile to achieve a desired engine torque profile during a tip-out maneuver. The spark timing profiles are described by a third-order polynomial as a function of time. A set of coefficients to define a third-order polynomial (design sites) are first generated using design of experiments (DOE). Each design site defines a spark timing profile which is then used to generate an engine torque profile using a CAE tool. The set of design sites and the corresponding engine torque profiles are used to construct time-dependent metamodels using Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) and Kriging. An example shows that the appropriate spark timing profile to achieve a desired engine torque profile can be successfully determined. The results are validated using the GT-Power engine software.
Multilevel Design of Sandwich Composite Armors for Blast Mitigation using Bayesian Optimization and Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines
Authors: Valladares Homero , Tovar Andres
Published: April 2021

In regions at war, the increasing use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) is the main threat against military vehicles. Large cabin”s penetrations and high gross accelerations are primary threats against the occupants” survivability. The occupants” survivability under an IED event largely depends on the design of the vehicle armor. Under a blast load, a vehicle armor should maintain its structural integrity while providing low cabin penetrations and low gross accelerations. This investigation employs Bayesian global optimization (BGO) and non-uniform rational B-splines (NURBS) to design sandwich composite armors that simultaneously mitigate the cabin”s penetrations and the reaction force at the armor”s supports. The armors are made of four layers: steel, carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), aluminum honeycomb, and CFRP. BGO is a methodology to solve optimization problems that require the evaluation of expensive black-box functions such as the finite element (FE) simulations of the vehicle armor under a blast event. BGO has two main components: the surrogate model of the black-box function and the acquisition function that guides the optimization. In this study, the surrogate models are Gaussian processes and the acquisition function is the multi-objective expected improvement function. NURBS generate the armor”s shape. The numerical examples show three alternatives to optimize the armor at two levels: (1) thicknesses of the sandwich”s layers and (2) the armor”s shape. The three design alternatives differ in the number of optimized levels and the optimization approach (sequential or simultaneous). The results show that the simultaneous optimization of the thicknesses of the sandwich”s layers and the armor”s shape is the most effective approach to design vehicle armors for blast mitigation.
Graphene Coating as a Corrosion Protection Barrier for Metallic Terminals in Automotive Environments
Authors: Zhang Suki Naifang , Chen Zhihong , Arfaei Babak
Published: April 2021

Inside an automobile, hundreds of connectors and electrical terminals in various locations experience different corrosive environments. These connectors and electrical terminals need to be corrosion-proof and provide a good electrical contact for a vehicle’s lifetime. Saltwater and sulfuric acid are some of the main corrosion concerns for these electrical terminals. Currently, various thin metallic layers such as gold (Au), silver (Ag), or tin (Sn) are plated with a nickel (Ni) layer on copper alloy (Cu) terminals to ensure reliable electrical conduction during service. Graphene due to its excellent chemical stability can serve as a corrosion protective layer and prevent electrochemical oxidation of metallic terminals. In this work, effects of thin graphene layers grown by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) on Au and Ag terminals and thin-film devices were investigated. Various mechanical, thermal/humidity, and electrical tests were performed. In addition, a systematic corrosion study of various metallic surfaces when exposed to saltwater, sulfuric liquid phase, and EIA 364-65B class IIA gas phase was performed. All tested cases confirm that graphene layer substantially reduces corrosion rate compared with the samples with no graphene coating. The resistance of the metallic terminals remains almost unchanged when compared to that of bare terminals.