bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of crocin versus sertraline in treatment of mild to moderate postpartum depression: a double-blind, randomized clinical trial
Authors: Kolahdooz Golnoosh , Vosough Iraj , Sepahi Samaneh , Mohajeri Seyed Ahmad
Published: December 2022

Postpartum depression (PPD) is one of the most common conditions among women. This study aimed to investigate the effect of crocin compared to sertraline in women with mild to moderate PPD. This trial study was performed on women with PPD. Patients in two groups received crocin (15 mg) and sertraline (50 mg) daily for 3 months, respectively. Patients have assessed by Beck’s Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and Beck’s Anxiety Inventory (BAI) at 0–12 weeks. A total of 64 patients were examined. The mean of the BDI-II score in the crocin group decreased after 3 months from 20.75 to 4.93 (P = 0.0001). In the sertraline group, the mean score of BDI-II decreased after 3 months from 21.06 to 2.37 (P = 0.0001). The mean of the BAI score in the crocin group decreased significantly after 3 months from 13.75 to 4.06 (P = 0.0001) and in the sertraline group from 12.9 to 2.71 (P = 0.0001). No significant difference was observed between crocin and sertraline after the clinical trial (P = 0.5). No severe side effects were observed during the study in the two groups. The results of this study showed that crocin (15 mg daily) could be useful in treating PPD. Furthermore, this study showed that crocin, with far fewer side effects than chemical drugs, can be widely used in PPD, but due to the small sample size further studies are necessary to confirm such efficiency.
JMM Profile: Trichosporon yeasts: from superficial pathogen to threat for haematological-neutropenic patients
Authors: Francisco Elaine Cristina , Hagen Ferry
Published: December 2022

Trichosporon yeasts are classical agents of superficial mycoses, and they are ranked as the first to second predominant basidiomycetous yeast able to cause invasive infections. The clinical presentation of Trichosporon infections varies with the affected anatomical site, with fungaemia present in the majority of invasive trichosporonosis cases. Only a limited number of antifungal compounds can be used to treat Trichosporon infections. Azoles are the first choice due to their intrinsic resistance to echinocandins. Better laboratory methods and up-to-date databases of commercial platforms are required to improve identification, susceptibility testing and surveillance of this potentially threating infection.
Efficacy and Safety of Chinese Herbal Injection Thoracic Perfusion combined with Cisplatin chemotherapy for Lung Cancer Malignant Pleural Effusion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: He Zhong-Ning , Su Ming-Wan , Jie-He  , Zhu Guang-Hui , Zhao Yu-Wei , He Shu-Lin , Li Yue , Shi Bo-Lun , Hu Jia-Qi , Chen Shun-Tai , Hua Bao-Jin
Published: December 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal injection thoracic perfusion combined with cisplatin chemotherapy for lung cancer patients with MPE.

Method

Eight databases were searched for articles published from inception to August 20, 2022 for randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) that are relevant. The included studies were reviewed by two investigators, with relevant data extracted independently. Primary outcome was identified as objective response rate (ORR), while secondary outcomes were identified as quality of life (QOL) and adverse reactions. Quality of the included trials was assessed through risk of bias assessment of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. The Revman5.3 and Stata17.0 software were used to calculate risk ratio (RR) at 95% confidence intervals (CI) for binary outcomes.

Results

29 RCTs involving 1887 patients were included in this study. Compared with patients treated with cisplatin thoracic perfusion alone, those with Chinese herbal injection and cisplatin thoracic perfusion had better therapeutic effects (RR=1.44, 95% CI: 1.35∼1.53, P = 0.000), higher KPS score (RR = 1.47, 95%CI: 1.34∼1.61, P = 0.0000), lower digestive tract reaction(RR = 0.56, 95%CI: 0.48∼0.67, P = 0.000), bone marrow suppression (RR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.43∼0.59, P =0.000) and chest pain reactions (RR = 0.65, 95%CI: 0.47∼0. 89, P = 0.007).

Conclusion

The systematic review indicated that Chinese herbal injection thoracic perfusion combined with cisplatin chemotherapy may improve therapeutic effect, quality of life, and reduce adverse reactions. More large-scale and higher quality RCTs are warranted to support our findings. Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO, identifier CRD42022347345.
Minimally invasive surgery with a tube-free surgical field for Tetralogy of Fallot repair: A single-center experience
Authors: Qiao Bin , Wei Zhenglun Alan , Si Biao , Zhang Fengquan , Zhu Meng , Chen Lei , Slesnick Timothy
Published: December 2022

Objective

Several authors have detailed their experiences with small cohorts of patients in light of expanding interest in using minimally invasive surgery (MIS) to treat Tetralogy of Fallot (ToF). The goal of this study was to review an innovative MIS technique that results in a small tube-free surgical field. The technique’s clinical outcomes were examined in the largest cohort to date of patients with ToF treated with an MIS technique.

Methods

We reviewed all patients who underwent MIS at a single center between 2013 and 2017. The MIS procedure (including establishment of cavopulmonary bypass) is described. The inter-, peri- and postoperative data are reported and compared with those in the contemporary literature on ToF MIS.

Results

A total of 105 patients with ToF were identified. All patients, including 2 under 6 months of age, had good postoperative oxygen saturation (99% [98-100]). The incision size was 3 mm for patients younger than 3 years and 3-5 mm for older patients. No conversions to sternotomy or reinterventions were needed. Postoperative complications occurred in 14 patients (13.3%), including 1 death in the intensive care unit, which was not felt to be cardiac in origin. The primary hospital course metrics were comparable to previously published data.

Conclusions

The MIS technique with a tube-free surgical field has been successfully performed in 105 patients. The overall outcomes are favorable, including those for 2 patients younger than 6 months. This innovative MIS could be a promising approach for facilitating ToF repair in patients of all ages.

Central Picture

Artist depiction of operative incisions for the proposed minimally invasive surgery.

Central Message

This study shows the favorable outcomes of an innovative MIS technique with a tube-free surgical field by reviewing its use in 105 ToF patients, to date the largest cohort undergoing MIS for ToF.

Perspective Statement

The proposed MIS technique with a tube-free surgical field presents a promising method for ToF repair; smaller incisions reduce patient pain, facilitate recovery, and enhance cosmesis. This technique achieved overall favorable outcomes for patients with ToF. Also, it can be a good option for early primary ToF repairs.
Antithrombotic Therapy After Heart Valve Surgery, Contemporary Practice in the United Kingdom
Authors: Laskar Nabila , Bayliss Christopher D , Akowuah Enoch , Kirmani Bilal H , Chambers John B , Maier Rebecca , Briffa Norman P , Cartwright Neil , Kendall Simon , Shah Benoy Nalin
Published: December 2022

Objectives

There is a lack of high-quality data informing the optimal antithrombotic drug strategy following bioprosthetic heart valve replacement or valve repair. Disparity in recommendations from international guidelines reflects this. This study aimed to document current patterns of antithrombotic prescribing after heart valve surgery in the United Kingdom.

Methods

All UK consultant cardiac surgeons were e-mailed a custom-designed survey. The use of oral anticoagulant (OAC) and/or antiplatelet drugs following bioprosthetic aortic (AVR) or mitral valve replacement (MVR), or mitral valve repair (MVrep), for patients in sinus rhythm, without additional indications for antithrombotic medication, was assessed. Additionally, we evaluated anticoagulant choice following MVrep in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Results

We identified 260 UK consultant cardiac surgeons from 36 units, of whom 103 (40%) responded, with 33 units (92%) having at least one respondent. The greatest consensus was for patients undergoing bioprosthetic AVR, in which 76% of surgeons favour initial antiplatelet therapy and 53% prescribe lifelong treatment. Only 8% recommend initial OAC. After bioprosthetic MVR, 48% of surgeons use an initial OAC strategy (versus 42% antiplatelet), with 66% subsequently prescribing lifelong antiplatelet therapy. After MVrep, recommendations were lifelong antiplatelet agent alone (34%) or following 3 months OAC (20%), no antithrombotic agent (20%), or 3 months OAC (16%). After MVrep for patients with established AF, surgeons recommend warfarin (38%), a direct oral anticoagulant (37%) or have no preference between the two (25%).

Conclusion

There is considerable variation in the use of antithrombotic drugs after heart valve surgery in the UK. This reflects the lack of high-quality evidence and underscores the need for randomised studies.

KEY MESSAGES

What is already known on this topic?

The most appropriate antithrombotic drug regime following bioprosthetic heart valve replacement or mitral valve repair is not known. Contemporary practice in the UK has not been established.

What this study adds

This study demonstrates wide variation in antithrombotic drug choice and duration following bioprosthetic heart valve replacement or mitral valve repair in the UK.

How this study might affect research, practice, or policy

Randomised studies are required to assess the most appropriate antithrombotic strategy after heart valve surgery.
The role of a population of descending neurons in the optomotor response in flyingDrosophila
Authors: Palmer Emily H. , Omoto Jaison J. , Dickinson Michael H.
Published: December 2022

To maintain stable flight, animals continuously perform trimming adjustments to compensate for internal and external perturbations. Whereas animals use many different sensory modalities to detect such perturbations, insects rely extensively on optic flow to modify their motor output and remain on course. We studied this behavior in the fruit fly,Drosophila melanogaster, by exploiting the optomotor response, a robust reflex in which an animal steers so as to minimize the magnitude of rotatory optic flow it perceives. Whereas the behavioral and algorithmic structure of the optomotor response has been studied in great detail, its neural implementation is not well-understood. In this paper, we present findings implicating a group of nearly homomorphic descending neurons, the DNg02s, as a core component for the optomotor response in flyingDrosophila. Prior work on these cells suggested that they regulate the mechanical power to the flight system, presumably via connections to asynchronous flight motor neurons in the ventral nerve cord. When we chronically inactivated these cells, we observed that the magnitude of the optomotor response was diminished in proportion to the number of cells silenced, suggesting that the cells also regulate bilaterally asymmetric steering responses via population coding. During an optomotor response, flies coordinate changes in wing motion with movements of their head, abdomen, and hind legs, which are also diminished when the DNg02 cells are silenced. Using two-photon functional imaging, we show that the DNg02 cells respond most strongly to patterns of horizontal motion and that neuronal activity is closely correlated to motor output. However, unilateral optogenetic activation of DNg02 neurons does not elicit the asymmetric changes in wing motion characteristic of the optomotor response to a visual stimulus, but rather generates bilaterally symmetric increases in wingbeat amplitude. We interpret our experiments to suggest that flight maneuvers in flies require a more nuanced coordination of power muscles and steering muscles than previously appreciated, and that the physical flight apparatus of a fly might permit mechanical power to be distributed differentially between the two wings. Thus, whereas our experiments identify the DNg02 cells as a critical component of the optomotor reflex, our results suggest that other classes of descending cells targeting the steering muscle motor neurons are also required for the behavior.
Identifying farmers' preferences for types of credit and its market structure in rural Benin using the conjoint analysis approach
Authors: Sonehekpon Emile Sègbégnon , Fiamohe Rose
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study analyzes farmers' preferences for agricultural credit and its market structure in rural Benin using the conjoint analysis approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The data used come from primary sources collected from 228 randomly selected farmers. The conjoint analysis approach was used to produce the results. The bias associated with the heteroscedasticity of the error terms was fixed using the weighted least squares estimation method. Agricultural credit markets were segmented using the Calinski algorithm.

Findings

The study results reveal that farmers prefer a long-term agricultural credit with a low interest rate received via mobile banking. The interaction between a type of credit with collateral and a low interest rate is positively correlated with farmers' credit demand. The authors also found that agricultural credit markets are heterogeneous because of the heterogeneity in farmers' credit demand. This result has led to three different rural credit market segments identified in the selected study's sites. The market share simulation reveals a significant market share for the type of credit preferred by farmers in two segments.

Research limitations/implications

The proven evidence from this study can guide the development of appropriate agricultural financial products that promote financial inclusion among farmers in rural Benin. More specifically, agricultural financial policies that promote digital long-term credit with low interest rate and appropriate guarantee mechanisms can promote financial inclusion among farmers and reduce the problem of asymmetric information in agricultural credit market. The study also calls for the promotion of differentiated policies across the three identified segments in order to positively impact the welfare of all farmers.

Practical implications

The use of agricultural financial products that include digital long-term credit with low interest rate and appropriate guarantee mechanisms promote financial inclusion and reduce asymmetric information problems in agricultural credit markets in rural Benin.

Social implications

The promotion of long-term digital and cheap credit improves farmers household's wellbeing in rural Benin.

Originality/value

This study contributes to a better understanding of the structure of rural credit markets. It also reveals the most preferred characteristics of rural credit profiles by farmers. Besides, it validates the importance of the use of guarantee as an appropriate mechanism which minimizes the problem of asymmetric information between financial agents and farmers.
Heuristic design and modelling of modified interleaved boost converter for E-mobility control
Authors: Sampath Suresh , Rahiman Zahira , Kalavai Shafeeque Ahmed , Veerasamy Bharanigha , Mekhilef Saad
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to present a modified interleaved boost converter (MIBC) topology for improving the reliability and efficiency of power electronic systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The MIBC topology was implemented with two parallel converters, operated with a −180 degree phase shift. Using this methodology, ripples are reduced. The state-space model was analysed with a two-switch MIBC for different modes of operation. The simulation was carried out and validated using a hardware prototype.

Findings

The performance of the proposed MIBC shows better output voltage, current and power than the interleaved boost converter (IBC) for the solar PV array. The output power of the proposed converter is 1.353 times higher than that of existing converters, such as boost converter (BC) and IBC. The output power of the four-phase IBC is 30 kW, whereas that of the proposed two-phase MIBC is 40.59 kW. The efficiency of MIBC was better than that of IBC (87.01%). By incorporating interleaved techniques, the total inductor current is reduced by 29.60% compared with the existing converter.

Practical implications

The proposed MIBC can be used in a grid-connected system with an inverter circuit for DC-to-AC conversion, electric vehicle speed control, power factor correction circuit, high-efficiency converters and battery chargers.

Originality/value

The work presented in this paper is a modified version of IBC. This modified MIBC was modelled using the state-space approach. Furthermore, the state-space model of a two-phase MIBC was implemented using a Simulink model, and the same was validated using a hardware setup.
Equity bank: repositioning as a fintech
Authors: Kiburu Lydiah , Mungai Edward
Published: December 2022

Learning outcomes

The learning objectives of this case include:

▪ Outline the brand repositioning approaches that Equity Bank used in its various stages of growth.

▪ Identify the impact of Equity’s brand repositioning in supporting its growth.

▪ Develop a brand repositioning framework for Equity bank as a fintech.

▪ Identify the theoretical frameworks that informed Equity’s brand repositioning during the various growth stages.

▪ Suggest a theoretical framework that would help Equity to reposition the new brand in the market.

Case overview/synopsis

In March 2020, the Government of Kenya declared a lockdown to slow down the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. The lockdown of entire economic sectors put pressure on the adoption of technology to deliver services such as education, training and financial services. Banks had to innovate ways of supporting customers transactions with minimal physical and cash contact. Equity Bank had been implementing a digital banking strategy which had demonstrated successful adoption. Covid-19 accelerated the adoption and usage of Equity Bank’s digital banking by consumers. The bank found itself in a new territory competing fiercely with new and more agile fintechs. Consequently, Dr James Mwangi, the Group Managing Director and CEO of Equity Group, was contemplating the possibility of bringing forward the bank's strategic intention of repositioning as a fintech. He was convinced that such a move would bring massive success to the bank’s digital banking strategy, achieve enhanced efficiency, improve customer experience and attract a new segment of digital-savvy customers. But he needed to carry the Board, his management team and customers along in this repositioning strategy without sacrificing the gains made in the consumers' minds about Equity's brand as a bank.

Complexity academic level

This case can be taught to graduate-level students of marketing courses. It can also be taught to participants of executive education undertaking short courses in in business management and entrepreneurship.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 8: Marketing.
The “epidemic within the pandemic”: meeting the needs of racially minoritised women experiencing domestic abuse during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Magill Severyna
Published: December 2022

Purpose

In March 2020, the UK entered its first lockdown responding to the Covid-19 pandemic. In the same month, the Domestic Abuse Bill had its first reading in Parliament. Charities and non-governmental organisations critiqued the Bill for failing to protect migrants from domestic abuse, and not complying with the Istanbul Convention. Drawing on interviews with staff from Southall Black Sisters, this paper aims to foreground the experiences of practitioners within the women’s sector to explore the unique experiences and challenges migrant and racially minoritised women encountered when seeking support from domestic abuse during the Covid-19 pandemic. It highlights how the pandemic-related lockdowns created barriers to accessing support services and housing, creating an epidemic within the pandemic, and how minoritised women and the organisations that supported them had to overcome structural barriers and racism.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with staff from a leading women’s organisation that supports migrant and racially minoritised women. Four participants were asked questions within four themes: domestic abuse before and during the pandemic; accessing support from and reporting domestic abuse; accessibility of resources; and post-pandemic challenges. A phenomenological approach was used to analyse the transcribed interviews.

Findings

Participants consistently highlighted the unique threats and barriers migrant and racially minoritised women faced when seeking support. Barriers included racism, language barriers, cultural constraints, the triple threat of destitution, detention, deportation, and political resistance to protect migrant women from destitution/homelessness.

Originality/value

This paper provides a unique insight into the experiences of staff members within a specialist by and for women’s support organisation in England and their perspectives on the barriers racially minoritised and migrant women experienced during the Covid-19 pandemic. It offers rare insights into how service users’ needs changed during the lockdowns and how the pandemic affected their ability to operate.
Braided identities in acute care nurses' practices of work: professional, clinician, employee
Authors: Lake Sarah , Rudge Trudy , West Sandra
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to explore how dispositions of nursing habitus carry shift handover into practice in acute care.

Design/methodology/approach

Handover (the exchange of information by nurses between shifts) is more recently purported to be a procedure that transfers the responsibility of and accountability for care to maintain patient safety. Using Bourdieu's theory of practice as lens, this paper examines data from an ethnographic study of nurses' work in acute care to reveal what happens in and around nurses' practices of handover.

Findings

Exploring handover as a practice enables identification of nurses' responsibilities of work as professional, clinician and employee. These responsibilities are not practised separately, rather, as braided identities they are embodied into nurses' practices of work. Nurses' clinician and employee identities address the clinical and organisationally relevant material contained in handover, but it is in the ways that nurses embody their responses that their professional identity becomes evident.

Research limitations/implications

Viewing handover as a procedure suggests that nurses are rule followers and/or sole players and conceptualises nurses as individualised professionals only. This received knowledge as doxa misrecognises the centrality of connectedness between nurses in their work in the acute care setting.

Originality/value

Recognising nurses' braided workplace identities as being professional, clinician and employee upends the doxa of nurses work as tasks and roles in the delivery of healthcare in the acute care setting.
A holistic view of academic library supply chain model
Authors: Hye A.K. Mahbubul , Mustaffa Nurakmal Ahmad , Habib Md. Mamun
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The supply chain (SC) model is commonly utilized in manufacturing and has also been adapted to a variety of service industries with similar goals. However, in a few service industries, most notably academic libraries, the SC model is rarely implemented, despite the fact that SC management best practises have been shown to boost stakeholder satisfaction, revenue and decrease total expenses. This research aims to discuss the development of the entities of an academic library SC model and present the verifying/validation process of the model.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, both qualitative and quantitative approaches have been used. System thinking method used to develop the conceptual SC model of the academic library and fuzzy Delphi method (FDM) used to validate the developed model.

Findings

This research explores the functions and components that need to develop and validate the academic library SC model.

Originality/value

The outcome of this research is to construct a valid SC model of an academic library which could be a strategical tool for ensuring a quality service for the library users and the stakeholders because this model shows a holistic view of all entities of the academic library SC.
Differential expression of myosin heavy chain isoforms type II in skeletal muscles of polar and black bears
Authors: Kawata Mutsumi , Luziga Claudius , Miyata Hirofumi , Sugiura Takao , Wada Naomi
Published: December 2022

In this study, the pattern of myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms expression in skeletal muscles of the trunk, forelimb and hindlimb in Polar Bear (PB) Ursus maritimus; American Black Bear (AmBB), Ursus americanus and Asian Black Bear (AsBB), Ursus thibetanus was analysed by immunohistochemistry and SDS‐PAGE. Results showed that slow (MHC‐I) and fast (MHC‐II) isoforms exist in muscles of bears. Type II fibres were classified further into Type IIa and IIx in PB but not in AsBB and AmBB. The distribution of Type I and Type II fibres in the trunk, forelimb and hindlimb varied based on muscle type and animal species. The proportions of Type I fibres formed approximately one‐third of muscle composition in PB (trunk, 32.0%; forelimb, 34.7%; hindlimb, 34.5%) and a half in both AsBB and AmBB whereas Type IIa and IIx formed approximately two‐third in PB (trunk, 68.0%; forelimb, 65.3%; hindlimb, 65.5%) and a half of Type II in both AmBB and AsBB. PB is a good swimmer, lives in Arctic Ocean on slippery ice catching aquatic mammals such as seals and is larger in size compared to the medium sized AmBB (living in forest) and AsBB (arboreal). The results suggest that in bears, there is greater diversity in MHC isoforms II, being expressed in selected fast contracting skeletal muscles in response to variety of environments, weight bearing and locomotion.
Effects of a trauma‐informed mindful recovery program on comorbid pain, anxiety, and substance use during primary care buprenorphine treatment: A proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Schuman‐Olivier Zev , Fatkin Thomas , Creedon Timothy B. , Samawi Farah , Moore Sarah K. , Okst Kayley , Fredericksen Alaine (Kiera) , Oxnard Alexandra (Sasha) , Roll David , Smith Lydia , Cook Benjamin Lê , Weiss Roger D.
Published: December 2022

Background

A mindfulness‐based intervention that reduces comorbid pain, anxiety, and substance use during office‐based opioid treatment (OBOT) could enhance retention and prevent overdose. We conducted a pilot study of the Mindful Recovery OUD Care Continuum (M‐ROCC), a 24‐week trauma‐informed program with a motivationally‐sensitive curriculum.

Methods

Patients prescribed buprenorphine (N = 18) enrolled in M‐ROCC. We collected urine toxicology biweekly. At 0, 4, and 24 weeks, participants completed PROMIS‐Pain, PROMIS‐Anxiety, Mindfulness (FFMQ), Experiential Avoidance (BEAQ), Interoceptive Awareness (MAIA), and Self‐Compassion (SCS‐SF) scales. We estimated changes over time using mixed models. Participants completed qualitative interviews at 4 and 24 weeks.

Results

Positive urine toxicology decreased over time for cocaine (β = −.266, p = .008) and benzodiazepines (β = −.208, p = .028). M‐ROCC reduced PROMIS‐Pain (Z = −2.29; p = .022), BEAQ (Z = −2.83; p = .0005), and increased FFMQ (Z = 3.51; p < .001), MAIA (Z = 3.40; p = .001), and SCS‐SF (Z = 2.29; p = .022). Participants with co‐morbid anxiety had decreased PROMIS‐Anxiety (Z = −2.53; p = .012). Interviewed participants commonly used mindfulness practices for stress and anxiety (12/12, 100%), and to reduce pain catastrophizing and rumination (7/12, 58%).

Conclusion and Scientific Significance

This is the first study to report the effects of a 24‐week mindfulness program during buprenorphine treatment on common comorbidities, including pain interference, anxiety, cocaine, and benzodiazepine use. The findings that M‐ROCC is associated with reduced experiential avoidance, as well as increased interoceptive awareness and self‐compassion, align with proposed mechanisms that are now extended to OUD treatment. Future larger randomized controlled trials are needed before effectiveness can be established and the role of these mechanisms can be confirmed.
Fomepizole should be used more liberally in paracetamol overdose
Authors: Filip Ari B. , Mullins Michael E.
Published: December 2022

Growing clinical and basic science data support the use of fomepizole as an adjunct to N‐acetylcysteine in paracetamol poisoning. This safe antidote may be helpful in severely poisoned patients.
Node‐by‐node diagnosis for multiple ipsilateral nodules by segmental adrenal venous sampling in primary aldosteronism
Authors: Tannai Hiromitsu , Makita Kohzoh , Koike Yuya , Kubo Haremaru , Nakai Kazuki , Yamazaki Yuto , Tsurutani Yuya , Saito Jun , Matsui Seishi , Kakuta Yukio , Sasano Hironobu , Nishikawa Tetsuo
Published: December 2022

Objectives

In patients with primary aldosteronism (PA), multiple adrenocortical nodules may be present on the surgical side. The aim of this study was to clarify the pathological diagnosis and the node‐by‐node diagnostic capability of segmental adrenal venous sampling (sAVS).

Design

Retrospective study.

Patients

A total of 162 patients who underwent adrenalectomy following sAVS were studied.

Measurements

Multiple nodules on the surgical side were extracted while referring to contrast‐enhanced computed tomography images. We also performed a detailed histopathological analysis of the resected specimens from patients undergoing sAVS, which included immunohistochemistry for CYP11B2.

Results

In 11 (6.8%) patients, two to three nodules were detected on the surgical side. All patients were diagnosed by sAVS with at least one aldosterone‐producing adenoma (APA) for localized aldosterone elevation in tributaries. Seven patients showed a lateralization index value of ≥4 after ACTH stimulation. Histopathologically and clinically, two patients had two or three CYP11B2‐positive APAs, and the other nine patients both APAs and non‐APAs. The positive predictive value of the most suspected APA, that is, the drainer that showed the highest aldosterone level by sAVS, was 11/11 (100%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 71.5%–100%), while that for the second and third suspected APA was 3/7 (42.9%, 95% CI: 9.9%–81.6%), and they were significantly different (p = .01). Further, the positive predictive value of non‐APA was 4/4 (100%, 95% CI: 39.8%–100%).

Conclusions

The sAVS could correctly diagnose the aldosterone production in multiple ipsilateral adrenal nodules.
A multi‐parametric machine learning approach using authentication trees for the healthcare industry
Authors: Abunadi Ibrahim , Rehman Amjad , Haseeb Khalid , Alam Teg , Jeon Gwanggil
Published: December 2022

The Internet of Health Things (IoHT) has grown in importance for developing medical applications with the support of wireless communication systems. IoHT is integrated with many sensors to capture the patients' records and transmits them to hospital centres for analysis and reporting. Controlling and managing health records has been addressed in several ways, however, it is noted that two key research problems for vital communication systems are reliability and reducing data loss. To enhance the sustainability of health applications and effectively use the network infrastructure when transferring sensitive data, this research provides a machine learning approach. Moreover, data collected from the IoHTs are protected and can be securely received for physical process in hospitals using authentication trees. Firstly, the undirected graphs are explored based on the multi‐parametric machine learning approach to minimize the computation overheads and traffic congestion. Secondly, it evaluates the nodes' level behaviour over the heterogeneous traffic load with efficient identification of redundant links. Finally, in‐depth analysis and simulation results have shown that the proposed protocol is more effective than existing approaches for data accuracy and security analysis.
Hope As a Buffer to Suicide Attempts Among Adolescents with Depression
Authors: Pharris Angela B. , Munoz Ricky T. , Kratz Jon , Hellman Chan M.
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

Suicide among adolescents has long been linked to symptoms of depression. However, limited research has examined the potential buffering effect of hope on the relationship between depression and suicide attempts.

Methods

To test the effect of hope on the positive relationship between depression and suicide attempts, we used data (N = 502 adolescents) from youth ages 12‐18 collected as part of the 2018 Healthy Youth Survey in the State of Washington. Based on hope theory, we hypothesized a “buffering” form of moderation, with the presence of greater hope weakening the positive relationship between depression and suicide attempts. In other words, with higher hope, adolescents reporting depressive symptoms are less inclined to attempt suicide.

Results

Testing the moderating effect of hope via bootstrap resampling (N = 5000), the results indicated adolescents' hope levels indeed buffered the relationship between depressive symptoms and self‐reported suicide attempts. To wit, when adolescents' hope was low, there was a significant, robust, and positive relationship between depressive symptoms and suicide attempts (b = 0.2644, 95% CI [0.1604, 0.3683], t = 5.0, p < .001). However, when adolescents' hope was high, there was no longer a significant relationship between depressive symptoms and suicide attempts (b = 0.0304, 95% CI [−0.997, 0.1605], t = 0.4590, p = .65).

Conclusion

The buffering effect of hope was validated in a second, larger sample (n = 9308) of adolescents. This result suggests the potential utility of hope theory‐based interventions to assist depressed adolescents reduce their likelihood of suicide.
Gas-Turbine Power Plants for Operation With Low-Cost Fuel
Authors: Goldsbury John
Published: December 2022

This paper presents a discussion of the economics and general design requirements of gas-turbine power plants to be operated with low-cost fuel, such as natural gas and crude oil in the oil fields, refinery by-products, and by-product gases from industrial processes. It is pointed out that factors affecting first cost become relatively more important than those affecting efficiency as fuel cost decreases. When fuel cost is very low, water injection may well be considered if a suitable supply of water is available. Brief mention is made of the flow-type turbine power plant with preheated gas, which is a special case of the combustion-gas-turbine power plant. Approximate costs of these flow-type turbine power plants are given.
A Remote-Indicating Pressure Gage for Aircraft
Authors: Jewell R. G.
Published: December 2022

The indication of aircraft-engine oil and fuel pressures presents numerous problems. A brief study of existing gages shows that the two most serious problems are low temperature and engine vibration. A new gage has been developed to overcome these difficulties. The gage utilizes a second-harmonic remote-indicating system which is unique in that only one lead wire and ground return are required between indicator and transmitter.
Designing for High-Frequency Induction Hardening
Authors: Temin J. T.
Published: December 2022

High-frequency induction-hardening methods are being incorporated in the production of industrial parts to a greater extent than ever before. The design requirements are fairly rigid if the best results are to be obtained. These design principles are given specific treatment by the author. Special fixtures and machines for a variety of applications of the process have been developed and these are described at some length. The discussion includes metallurgical aspects of the induction-hardening process.
Torsional Viscous-Friction Dampers
Authors: Georgian J. C.
Published: December 2022

This paper describes the large torsional viscous-friction or “Lanchester” dampers manufactured by the author’s company for use on Diesel engines. Some properties of the new silicone fluids, that are necessary for damper design, are given. The theory of the torsional viscous-friction damper as applied to multimass systems is developed. Constructional details of the damper and methods of manufacture are discussed. Some test results are given and compared with calculations.
Aerodynamic Heating and Convective Heat Transfer—Summary of Literature Survey
Authors: Johnson H. A. , Rubesin M. W.
Published: December 2022

The analytical and experimental information appearing in the literature for convective heat transfer at high velocities is summarized. Particular emphasis is given to heat transfer for submerged flow over flat plates, wedges, cones, and cylinders with a single reference to flow in pipes. The evidence presented supports, as a fundamental heat-transfer relation, the modified Newton’s law of cooling q=hA[tw−(to+ruo2/2gJcp)] where the term ruo2/2gJcp) accounts for the influence of frictional dissipation and is readily evaluated when the recovery factor r is known. A second and very important result is the evidence given to show that the heat-transfer coefficient h, is independent of the magnitude of the frictional-dissipation term. Data are presented for the recovery factor and heat-transfer coefficient for high-speed subsonic- and supersonic-flow velocities. It should be noted, however, that heat transfer by radiation is not considered here as it would be treated in the usual manner for heat transfer without frictional dissipation.
The Parallel Development of Heavy Self-Contained Hydraulic Presses in the United States and Great Britain
Authors: Towler F. H.
Published: December 2022

The object of this paper is to survey the parallel development of heavy self-contained hydraulic presses in the United States and Great Britain in the hope that an exchange of ideas may be helpful to future development in both countries. The self-contained press has been made possible by the development of a compact high-speed pump using oil as the hydraulic medium; and the construction of the pump has a considerable influence on the design of the press. In the United States the tendency has been to use pumps of the rotary-valve type operating at a maximum pressure of about 3000 psi, with a comparatively thick oil of around 300 Saybolt at 100 F. In Great Britain there is a growing tendency to use pumps of the seated-valve type capable of a working pressure of 7000 psi, and using a thin oil of 60 Saybolt at 100 F. The relative advantages and disadvantages are discussed.
Operating Experiences in Connection With Regenerative Reheat-Turbine Installations
Authors: Robertson C. A.
Published: December 2022

This paper relates to the performance and design of regenerative reheat steam turbines, particularly several large 1800-rpm tandem-compound generating units. The author, who has been associated with field work and design of both these and marine types, discusses installations in the stations of two power companies. A description of these units, together with their respective reheat systems and protective equipment, is given, and many details of design and operation are discussed. The paper covers experiences for a period of 18 years, and also considerations relating to units now being installed or under construction.
Air Flow Through Small Orifices in the Viscous Region
Authors: Linden H. R. , Othmer D. F.
Published: December 2022

Experimental data for air flow through square-edged circular orifices and their correlation with the pressure difference, the orifice diameter, and the air temperature are presented in nomographic form. The correlation holds well for small orifices with diameters ranging from 1/16 to 3/16 in., for pressure differences from 0.015 to 0.500 in. of water, and negligible velocity of approach. The air-temperature range within which the correlation can be applied is from 70 to 300 F, and corrections for barometric pressures from 27 to 32 in. of mercury can be made. The main use of this correlation will be found in its application to oil-burner design. By inclusion of the carbon-hydrogen-ratio criterion, the nomographic representation may be integrated with the system of combustion calculations, based upon the carbon-hydrogen ratio developed by the authors (1). The nomograph enables the designer to calculate the theoretical fuel rate at which any hydrocarbon fuel can be burned per square inch of air-orifice area at a given pressure difference across orifices of known diameter and at specified air temperature, air pressure, and air humidity.
Reaction Tests of Turbine Nozzles for Subsonic Velocities
Authors: Kraft Hans
Published: December 2022

A large number of turbine nozzles were tested by means of measuring the jet reaction. The results permit a study of the effect of most of the variables which play a role in turbine design. The design of the flow elements of turbines whether they be considered as passages or as profiles always involves a number of compromises between conflicting characteristics. Effects due to changes in the form of the nozzle partitions, their angle, their spacing, their length (called radial height), and their exit-edge thickness are shown. The tests were made during the years 1920–1928. They are here presented for the record, together with some interpretation of their meaning in the light of modern aerodynamics.
Southwark Station Boiler Air-Flow Model Tests and Operation Results
Authors: Lane R. A. , Morrison E. L.
Published: December 2022

This paper discusses the engineering application of scale-model study of the combustion-air distribution for a proposed boiler installation. By obtaining an intimate mix of fuel and air, a more nearly uniform and nonreducing atmosphere results in the furnace to avoid the phenomenon of tube wastage. Following the operation of the prototype boilers, field tests were made for direct comparison with the model results. These comparisons, the actual combustion-gas analyses, and the boiler performance are reviewed.
Methods and Instrumentation for Furnace Heat-Absorption Studies: Temperature and Composition of Gases at Furnace Outlet
Authors: Cohen Paul , Corey R. C. , Myers J. W.
Published: December 2022

As part of the general program of investigations by the ASME Special Research Committee on Furnace Performance Factors, the Combustion Research Section of the Bureau of Mines is making a series of determinations of furnace heat absorption of representative pulverized-coal-fired boiler furnaces. During the course of these studies, modifications have been made in the test technique to improve the precision of furnace testing. Automatic recording instruments have been employed, which permit more detailed sampling and examination of furnace-outlet gases than heretofore, without an appreciable increase in the time or work required. Improved designs of radiation shields have been developed for high-velocity thermocouples with accuracy comparable to the B&W multiple-shield high-velocity thermocouple, but which may be employed conveniently in pulverized-coal-fired furnaces. Detailed descriptions are presented of the distribution of gas composition and temperature at the outlet of a 640,000-lb per hr horizontally fired boiler furnace. Based upon this knowledge, the sampling characteristics of the gases at the furnace outlet for furnace heat-absorption measurements have been examined, and a procedure is suggested for the rational selection of simplified sampling schedules. The methods of calculating furnace heat absorption from the temperature and gas-composition data are examined critically with special emphasis on the effect of weighting with respect to mass velocity. Suggestions are presented whereby the significance of mass velocity for furnace heat-absorption calculations may be determined from the temperature and gas-composition data.
Application of Steam-Jet Ejectors in the Houdry Fixed-Bed Catalytic Cracking Process
Authors: Freneau Philip , Kelso George , Hoge A. W.
Published: December 2022

During recent years many articles have appeared in technical publications describing the Houdry fixed-bed catalytic cracking process. Most of the papers have discussed in detail the excellent characteristics of the aviation fuels, motor gasolines, and other products that are produced by this process, but few have described the importance of, or the operation of, the auxiliary equipment which has contributed materially to its success. Since the engineering developments associated with the process have been almost as novel and interesting as the ground-work of petroleum catalysis, the purpose of this paper is to discuss the fundamental theoretical aspects and the operation of the steam-jet ejectors which have been instrumental in maintaining the satisfactory performance of Houdry fixed-bed units. To the engineer, the data presented herein should be of particular importance because ejector design is generally not clearly understood and because the application of ejectors in the Houdry process is unique. Part 1 of the paper deals with the process itself, the principles of ejector design and operation, and details of Houdry unit air evacuators. Part 2 is devoted to a study of the application of ejectors to two other services in the Houdry process, viz., the evacuation of oil vapors during oil-purge periods and the maintenance of vacuum on the closed circulatory heat-transfer salt systems.
Airplane Quieting I—Measurement of Sound Levels in Flight
Authors: Beranek L. L. , Rudmose H. Wayne
Published: December 2022

This paper covers the types and use of equipment for the measurement of noise in aircraft and outlines procedures of measurement which will yield data of maximum value to the acoustical design engineer. The use of a standard sound reference level, of root-mean-square indicating meters, and of “flat” response-measuring equipment is urged. The three principal types of noise meters are described and their relative advantages discussed. The specifications which the individual components of the noise-measuring equipment should meet are discussed in a general way and extensive references are given for a more detailed study. Data are given showing the averaging characteristics of seventeen commercially available audiofrequency indicating instruments. Finally, suggested procedures for analyzing noise in aircraft during flight are presented.
Terminal Velocity as the Measure of Dust-Particle Characteristics
Authors: Foley R. B.
Published: December 2022

Although the behavior of fine dusts in air or any other fluid and the ease with which they can be separated from an air stream, is often expressed in terms of particle diameters in microns, this relationship is based on Stokes’s law which assumes that the particles are spherical and of uniform density. Since most industrial dusts are a mixture of particles of irregular shapes and varying densities, this paper will show the importance of considering the effect of all particle characteristics, size, shape, and density, upon its behavior in a fluid. It will also show that the terminal velocity of a dust particle is a measurement of the combined effect of all three particle characteristics as they affect its behavior.
Results of an Investigation of the Removal of Metals by the Process of Grinding
Authors: McKee R. E. , Moore R. S. , Boston O. W.
Published: December 2022

This paper presents the results of an investigation to determine the influence of grinding wheels, grinding compounds, and other pertinent factors that may affect the process of cylindrical grinding.