bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Aratirí open-pit mine project in Uruguay: politics of time, local and national environmental resistance to an extractivist government priority
Authors: Bidegain Germán , Freigedo Martín
Published: May 2022

Les mouvements sociaux influencent significativement les politiques et pratiques de l’industrie extractive au niveau global, grâce à l’activation de réseaux transnationaux. Amplement abordé par la littérature, ce phénomène connait toutefois des évolutions, tant dans les acteurs ciblés que dans les espaces de mobilisation. A partir de deux études de cas en Colombie et au Pérou, on compare la façon dont les organisations sociales choisissent ces acteurs et espaces et l’effet de ces choix sur le rôle de l’Etat. En dépit de la diversification des espaces d’influence vers le global et le secteur privé, notre étude réaffirme la centralité des institutions publiques comme objet ultime des stratégies de plaidoyer émergeant dans les territoires d’extraction.
The prevalence of the State as a target of diversified transnational advocacy strategies: compensating extractive impacts in Peru and Colombia
Authors: Gonzalez Espinosa Ana Carolina , Ruiz Morato Sarita , Warnaars Ximena
Published: May 2022

Contrairement à ce qui peut s’observer en Amérique Latine, les conflits de l’extractivisme demeurent rares au Maroc. Une paix sociale relative prévaut dans de nombreux secteurs primaires. Lorsqu’ils gagnent en intensité, les conflits associés à ce régime d’accumulation restent cadrés, pour l’essentiel, comme des conflits d’extraction qui ne remettent pas en cause la légitimité même d’une utilisation maximale des ressources naturelles. La comparaison de l’exploitation minière avec celle des eaux souterraines (agriculture intensive) amène ainsi à identifier deux préconditions des mobilisations anti-extractivistes. En premier lieu, la polarisation économique suscitée par ces activités doit être suffisamment marquée pour permettre l’émergence d’une identité collective de subalternes (une polarisation observable historiquement dans les mines, et aujourd’hui dans les territoires miniers, mais pas dans l’agriculture). En second lieu, des politiques territoriales de diversification économique doivent être déjà conduites, qui rendent socialement imaginable la perspective d’un développement non-extractiviste (ce qui n’est guère le cas, ni pour les mines, ni pour l’agriculture irriguée). Le dépaysement de la problématique extractive au Maroc invite ainsi à s’interroger sur les préconditions économiques et politiques des mouvements anti-extractivistes, mais aussi sur l’articulation de ces préconditions.
A new study on the existence and stability to a system of coupled higher-order nonlinear BVP of hybrid FDEs under the $ p $-Laplacian operator
Authors: Alkhazzan Abdulwasea , Al-Sadi Wadhah , Wattanakejorn Varaporn , Khan Hasib , Sitthiwirattham Thanin , Etemad Sina , Rezapour Shahram
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we study a general system of fractional hybrid differential equations with a nonlinear $ \phi_p $-operator, and prove the existence of solution, uniqueness of solution and Hyers-Ulam stability. We use the Caputo fractional derivative in this system so that our system is more general and complex than other nonlinear systems studied before. To establish the results, Green functions are used to transform the considered hybrid boundary problem into a system of fractional integral equations. Then, with the help of the topological degree theorem, we derive some sufficient conditions that ensure the existence and uniqueness of solutions for the proposed system. Finally, an example is presented to show the validity and correctness of the obtained results.
Design of Shape Memory Micro-Actuator Modules with Sequential Actuation
Authors: Bolocan Vlad Marius , Vâlsan Dragoș Dumitru , Novac Andrei , Chilnicean Gheorghe Amadeus , Ercuța Aurel , Crăciunescu Corneliu Marius
Published: May 2022

Shape memory alloy film-based micro-actuators have their behaviour controlled by a change in the thermomechanical stress that occurs in the bimorph - shape memory alloy film plus substrate assembly. The modification of the composition of the shape memory alloy leads to a change of the transformation temperature and implicitly of the temperature at which the stress change takes place in the bimorph. The design of micro-actuator blocks in which the composition and/or the temperature control mode of each micro-actuator in the block allows to obtain successive or sequential transformation sequences. The paper analyses the case of cantilever actuator modules with films of different compositions, deposited on the same substrate. It is highlighted how the composition of the alloy film with shape memory influences the modification of the curvature of bimorph cantilever type actuators in the studied block.
Study of Durable Strength of Steel Mining and Metallurgical Equipment
Authors: Makarenko Valeriy D. , Maksimov Sergey Yu. , Makarenko Yu. V. , Panchenko Olena S.
Published: May 2022

Erosion of the metal of mining and metallurgical equipment due to the impact of solid particles is one of the forms of wear that can significantly limit the service life of a working machine or technological equipment, for example, a pipeline conveyor, loading and unloading bodies of mine workings and metallurgical machines. At present, this problem has been little studied and there is not enough information in the literature to form a systematic picture of impact erosion of equipment elements of mining and processing plants. The purpose of the research was to study the fatigue strength and corrosion-mechanical crack resistance of some structural elements of mining and metallurgical equipment with a long service life in chemically aggressive environments. Experimental tests for corrosion fatigue (long-term strength) were performed under bending load. The tests were performed on a bend with zero average voltage and a cycle frequency of 30 Hz. The tests were performed in salt solutions with a concentration of NaCl 5%. To compare the results, tests were sometimes performed in the air. The given data analysis shows that the long-term fatigue of the metal of mining and metallurgical equipment is significantly reduced when reaching 20 years of operation, especially in an aggressive environment containing chlorine ions, which causes severe corrosion damage to steel equipment. In addition, samples cut from metal with a long service life in mining and metallurgical conditions (more than 20 years) are characterized by low long-term strength. It has been found that fatigue resistance decreases with an increase in the number of cycles. Steel samples tested based on N = 106 and especially on the basis of N = 107 cycles have low resistance, which inevitably leads to breakdown with the subsequent destruction of equipment. It has been established that with an increase in the service life of the experimental mining and metallurgical equipment, the fracture toughness of the metal decreases significantly, which causes further failure and destruction of technological equipment.
Effect of Fe-Rich Phases on Fracture Toughness of High Strength Al-Zn-Mg-Cu Alloy
Authors: Gao Rui Shuai , Li Zhi Hui , Li Ya Nan , Ren Wei Cai , Wang Feng Chun
Published: May 2022

In order to analyze the effect of insoluble Fe-rich phases on the fracture toughness of high-strength Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys, plane-strain fracture toughness test, scanning electron microscopy, finite element analysis and quantitative modeling were used to investigate the fracture toughness of three commercial high-strength Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys. The results show that the fracture mode of the three experimental alloys is strongly related to the Fe-rich phases, which are prone to initiate intergranular fracture of the experimental alloys. Finite element analysis proved that the larger the shape factor of the Fe-rich phases, the more sensitive it is to external stress and more prone to secondary cracking, which is consistent with the fracture morphology observation. Quantitative analysis shows that the size, volume fraction and morphology of the Fe-rich phases have a greater influence on the fracture toughness of the high-strength Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy. The fracture toughness of the alloy will be improved when the shape factor of the Fe-rich phases is small and close to circular and the volume fraction of the Fe-rich phases is small. The fracture toughness value of the Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys can be better predicted when the deviation of the shape and distribution of the Fe-rich phases is considered.
Material Optimization through Thin Film Compositional Spreads
Authors: Bolocan Vlad Marius , Gavre Bogdan , Vâlsan Dragoș Dumitru , Crăciunescu Corneliu Marius
Published: May 2022

Genome engineering is a powerful tool that enhances the accelerated innovation in materials development allowing both the discovery and optimization of functionalities based on a wide range of techniques. Thin films engineering is in the forefront of this new approach by allowing the generation of a wide range of compositions in a limited number of experiments and taking advantage out of the possibility to use high-throughput characterization techniques. The paper exemplifies the innovation via compositional spreads generated by magnetron sputtering and the mapping of the material’s manufactured libraries via electric resistivity and interfacial contact resistance measurements.
Considerations Regarding the Quality of Welds on Hollow Plastic Balls Obtained by Joining Two Ball Halves
Authors: Teușdea Dan Florin , Sîrbu Nicuşor Alin , Vodă Mircea
Published: May 2022

The requirements for sustainability and transition to a circular economy are key elements in the design and production of the components made by polymeric materials. The European Commission has issued a number of new directives with strict roadmaps to all State Members, in this regard. Some directives have already started to take effect; others are reaching their implementation deadlines. Limiting the consumption of raw materials and energy, as well as recyclability will lead to an increased reconversion of the current manufacturing technologies. However, all these goals must also take into account the quality aspects of the products. The testing methods must be adapted to certify the properties stated in the product sheets. This paper analyzes welding quality aspects in the production of hollow balls, made of polymeric materials, objects resulting from the joining of two hemispheres. As a case study, benchmarks from the cosmetic industry commonly known as deo roll balls were used. The first part of the paper presents the classic technology for manufacturing deo roll balls by extrusion blowing process. Below are some alternative technologies for manufacturing these balls by joining two hemispheres. The last part of the paper analyzes the welded joints by destructive and non-destructive testing methods. The basics that underlie the joining by welding polymeric materials as well as notions of rheology and material structure in the heat-affected zone are essential elements in explaining defect occurrence. A strict control of the welding parameters can offer good chances for implementing technologies to produce large series of spherical objects made of polymeric materials, objects that are made through alternative joining methods, more precisely by welding two hemispheres. The experiments carried out also highlighted some vulnerabilities of the proposed alternative technologies, their possible causes as well as the possibility of solving defects. These studies may underlie similar applications in which spherical objects are used.
Second Phase Dissolution Evolution of an As-Cast Al-4.0Cu-1.0Li-0.4Mg-0.3Ag-0.1Zr Alloy during Multiple Homogenization Processes
Authors: Lin Ben , Wen Kai , Zhang Yong An , Hu Zheng Gen , Wu Hui Qiang
Published: May 2022

Homogenization treatment is vital for eliminating eutectic structure and ensuring a preferable microstructure foundation for Aluminum Lithium (Al-Li) alloys. In this paper, solidification phases in an as-cast Al-Li alloy were revealed and their evolutions during multiple homogenization processes were analyzed by means of scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis. The results showed that the as-cast microstructure mainly contained needlelike Al2CuLi and Al2Cu phase, large size Cu-rich phases and netlike Ag-containing phases attached to them. As the alloy homogenized by 455°C/16h, except for needle-like phases inside grains, part of phases on grain boundaries had dissolved into the matrix and exhibited rounded shapes. As homogenized by 455°C/16h+495°C/16h, Ag-containing phase had completely dissolved into the matrix while the Cu-rich phases remained and showed two different morphologies depending on whether Mg element was contained. Prolonging the second homogenization time to 28h, no obvious change occurred for the Cu-rich phase. As homogenized by 455°C/16h+495°C/20h+512°C/20h, most Cu-rich phase had dissolved into the matrix while residual phase was mainly Fe-containing phase. This proposes an effective way to eliminate various solidification phases in Al-Li alloys and identify their contents.
Simulation Research on Cold Extrusion Strengthening and Reaming of 7050 Aluminum Alloy Plate Hole
Authors: Lv Hong Qing , Fan Ze Yuan , Xu Xing , Huang Xin
Published: May 2022

The finite element software abaqus is used to establish the model of split-sleeve cold extrusion (elastic-plastic) of the 7050 aluminum alloy test plate with hole and the reaming model after cold extrusion, and the processes are simulated. In these processes, the simulation results of cold extrusion are compared with the measured results, the law of residual stress distribution after cold extrusion is explored, and the influence of the amount of reaming on the distribution of residual stress during the reaming process is discussed. The simulation results show a good agreement with the experimental data; the residual compressive stress after cold extrusion increases first and then decreases from the intrusion end to the extrusion end. Specifically, the maximum value is near the middle surface, and the value of the second half is larger than that of the first half; after the cold extrusion with the split sleeve, a "ridge" appears, leading to uneven distribution of the residual stress and extrusion amount along the circumference of the hole. Moreover, the minimum value of the tangential residual stress lies on the intrusion surface, vertical to the “ridge”. After reaming, new residual compressive stress will be introduced, which will increase the residual compressive stress on the intrusion surface. In this sense, proper reaming can increase the residual compressive stress and its peak value, resulting in a fatigue gain.
Effect of the Inhomogeneity of Material Properties on the Quenching and Pre-Stretching Residual Stress in Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Ran Hong Wei , Li Ya Nan , Fan Ning , Lin Hai Tao , Zhou Hua
Published: May 2022

The effect of the inhomogeneity of the material properties on the quenching residual stress in the aluminum alloy was studied by using the finite element method simulation and the evolution of the quenching residual stress during the pre-stretching process was discussed in this paper. The results show that both the x-component and y-component of the quenching residual stresses in the non-uniform model are nearly overlapped with that in the uniform model. The effect of the inhomogeneity of the material properties on the quenching residual stress is negligible. After pre-stretching, the surface stress of the non-uniform model decreases from the middle line to the edge while the center stress increases. Contrastingly, both the surface and center stress of the uniform model are nearly stable along the same path, and the stress magnitudes are lower than that in the non-uniform model. The inhomogeneity of material properties mainly affects the pre-stretching residual stress distribution, while it has little effect on the quenching residual stress distribution.
Electromagnetic Methods for Production of Aluminium Metal Matrix Composites
Authors: Milgrāvis Mikus , Kroņkalns Gunārs , Nikoluškins Raimonds , Beinerts Toms , Kalvāns Matīss , Bojarevičs Andris , Perianu Ion Aurel
Published: May 2022

Aluminium metal matrix composites (AMC) are perspective materials for a wide range of applications in automotive, aerospace and other industries where material mechanical properties and weight ratio is crucial. In AMC manufacturing through metallurgical process the main obstacle for particle introduction into the melt is poor particle wettability and their tendency to form agglomerates due to van der Waals and interfacial forces. Most of currently used AMC manufacturing methods through metallurgical route are effective only for small quantities or are time consuming, even though metallurgical AMC production route would promise significant cost savings. In this study we propose a permanent magnet stirring technology developed by IP UL as tool for alternative realization of stir- and compo-casting methods for AMC production. First results of contactless stirred semi-solid aluminium alloys show effective alloy stirring in melt volume and intense surface deformations that can break the oxide layer and stir in the reinforcement material from the melt surface.
Investigation of Tensile Lap-Splice Hybrid Steel Bars Used in RC Beams under Flexure
Authors: Gnedy Magdy , Helmy Mohamed , Hatem Mohamed
Published: May 2022

During the last two decades, fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforcing bars for concrete structure has been extensively investigated and a number of FRP bars are commercially available. Using glass fibers and unsaturated polyester resins, steel fiber reinforced polymer composite bars (SFCB) were manufactured and introduced to the commercial market. Lap splice of such bars must be thoroughly investigated. Limitations of steel reinforcement lengths available from the plant (generally 12 m), causing the construction actors to splice the reinforcement. The simplest and easiest way is to make a lap splice, which made overlap by a certain length is called the developing length of lap splice bar. The main objective of this research using the concept of material hybridization, is to investigate the effect of bar diameter after adding fibers & code equation coefficients for best efficient developing length for tensile lap splice in beams under flexure. Nine RC beams were casted with dimensions of (25*40*420) cms and concrete strength of 300 kg/cm2. Beams were divided into three groups according to the fiber thickness added to 10 mms’ steel bars. First group contained three beams reinforced with hybrid bars of diameter 12 mms, 10mms steel coated with 2mms fiber. Beam one casted using bars with lap splice of 1.3*50φ, beam two casted using bars with lap splice of 1.3*55 φ & beam three casted using bars with lap splice of 1.3*60 φ. Second group contained three beams reinforced with hybrid bars of diameter 14 mms, 10mms steel coated with 4 mms fiber, beam one casted using bars with lap splice of 50φ, beam two casted using bars with lap splice of 55 φ & beam three casted using bars with lap splice of 60 φ. Third group contained three beams reinforced with hybrid bars of diameter 16 mms, 10mms steel coated with 6 mms fiber , beam one casted using bars with lap splice of1.3* 50φ , beam two casted using bars with lap splice of 1.3*55 φ & beam three casted using bars with lap splice of 1.3*60 φ . Beams were tested under four-point load to create a region of pure flexure stress. Load –deflection curves are presented along with percentage differences. Finally, conclusions were drawn and presented in this paper.
Damage State Assessment of Metal Pipes of a Power Plant, Subjected to Thermal Stresses
Authors: Duma Iuliana , Murariu Alin Constantin , Popescu Radu Nicolae
Published: May 2022

During the operating of industrial equipment and installations, elastoplastic deformations may occur over time in their most demanding areas due to thermal stresses, mechanical stresses (due to internal pressure, weight, inertial forces) or thermomechanical stresses resulting from their combination. Thermal stresses are cause by the non-uniformity of the expansions produced by the temperature differences, by the non-uniformity of the coefficients of linear thermal expansion of the materials used in isothermal or non-isothermal operating conditions. Increasing the temperature reduces the material strength by creating elastoplastic deformations and thus, to the loss of available plasticity of the material. The sudden change in operating regimes and the increase in the number of these regime changes at high temperatures, is one of the main causes of the faster accumulation of degradation, and the reduction of components remaining life. On the other hand, environmental factors have an important influence on the operating behaviour of equipment, since they favour the induction of corrosion or erosion-corrosion phenomena due to the flow of fluid circulated through installations at high temperatures. The complexity of the thermomechanical stresses, to which materials are subjected during operation, leads to the need for periodic assess of their characteristics through specific tests and analyses. Paper presents the results of analyses and tests performed to assess the damage state of pipes from a thermal power plant system, results that allow to estimate the service remaining life of the pipeline system for a proper operating in safe conditions.
Using Glass Wastes as Partial Replacement of Coarse Aggregates in Concrete
Authors: Oan Ahmed Faisal , Elrefaei Ali E.M.M.
Published: May 2022

Concrete industry is one of the largest consumers of natural resources due to its consumption of huge volumes of natural aggregates, which represents around 70% - 80% of the concrete volume. The environmental and economic concern are the biggest challenge that concrete industry is facing. In this research, the issues of environmental and economic concern are addressed by using waste glass as partial replacement of coarse aggregates in concrete. The waste glass was used to replace the coarse aggregates using replacement ratios of 10%, 20%, and 30% by weight. The concrete specimens were tested for compressive strength, splitting tensile strength and flexural strength. Compression tests were carried out at 7 days and 28 days of age while the two other tests were carried out at 28-day age only. The results obtained were compared with those of normal concrete. The results concluded that there is feasibility in using glass wastes in concrete as partial replacement of coarse aggregates.
Effects of Deformation Rate on the Mechanical Properties of an Industrial Al-Zn-Mg-Cu Alloy
Authors: Yu Ming Yang , Zhang Yong An , Shi Guo Hui , Yan Hong Wei , Liu Hong Wei
Published: May 2022

The deformation parameters of aluminum alloys during thermal deformation have a significant impact on the alloy's properties. The industrial free forging of the Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy was carried out at deformation rates of 10 mm/s and 20 mm/s, respectively, at a deformation temperature of 430°C and a deformation degree of 60% in this study. The microstructure was determined using EBSD, and the mechanical characteristics were examined. According to EBSD observations, the recrystallization fraction of the alloy is nearly identical under both deformation rates; however, the average grain size of the alloy with a deformation rate of 10 mm/s is 10.8 μm larger than that of the alloy with a deformation rate of 20 mm/s. As the deformation rate increased from 10 mm/s to 20 mm/s, the alloy's yield strength and fracture toughness increased. The resistance to fatigue crack propagation, on the other hand, displayed the reverse pattern. That is, the alloy with a 20 mm/s deformation rate had a higher FCP rate than the alloy with a 10 mm/s deformation rate. In summary, the influence of deformation rate on the microstructure and mechanical properties of a high alloy Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy was investigated.
Study of Quench Sensitivity and Microstructure Evolution of Al-Mg-Si Alloy Sheets
Authors: Gao Guan Jun , Xiong Bai Qing , Yan Li Zhen
Published: May 2022

In the actual industrial production process, it is usually appropriate to reduce the cooling rate and control the residual stress. In this study, the Time-Temperature-Property curve of Al-Mg-Si alloy sheets was measured by interruption quenching and subsequent artificial aging method. The microstructure evolution of Al-Mg-Si alloy was carefully characterized using optical microscopy (OM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). It was found that the nose temperature of the TTP curve drawn by experiment was ~360°C, closing to the nose temperature of ~365°C obtained from the simulated TTT curves. The number of equilibrium phase rapidly increased with the increasing of holding time, while no obvious equilibrium phase formation at the low temperature region and high temperature region. The critical cooling rate is 14.3°C/s, the determination of the critical cooling rate has important reference value for the control of alloy sheet during quenching process in the actual industrial production. The quenching sensitive region of the Al-Mg-Si alloy sheet is between 290°C and 440°C.
Metal Injection Molding Using Gas-Assisted Technology for Optimizing Density Uniformity and Part Weight Reduction
Authors: Chen Shia Chung , Ou Yang Ming Hsien , Feng Ching Te , Hsu Tzu Jeng , Ting Yu Hung , Chang Che Wei
Published: May 2022

To control the product density uniformity and weight reduction for metal injection molding (MIM), this study investigated the influence of using gas-assisted technology to assess if uniform part density can be achieved. The findings show that gas-assisted molding has great potential for improving density uniformity, particularly for the part density at the position far away from the gate. The green parts and final parts also significantly improve density uniformity and shrinkage. Interestingly, the gas-assisted technology applied to MIM shows similar molding characteristics and advantages over gas-assisted injection molding of polymers. This also enables the design of MIM parts with a non-uniform thickness with a hollowed core in the thick portion.
Properties and Microstructure of High Strength Concrete Incorporating Different Supplementary Cementitious Materials
Authors: Amin Mohamed , Abdelaziz Nirmen , Agwa Ibrahim Saad , Abu El-Hassan Khaled
Published: May 2022

The construction industry has recently focused on the use of sustainable and innovative building materials, which called for the production of many supplementary cementitious materials with concrete to make the concrete produced durable and sustainable. Since high-strength concrete has many advantages other than its high strength, it has recently been used in non-traditional applications after for a long time confined to well-known traditional applications. This study presents the effect of micro Ferrosilicon (FS) and mineral materials on high-strength concrete properties, where silica fume (SF), FS, and metakaolin (Mk) were used as additives to cement.Besides the consistency test, all-ages compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, modulus of elasticity strengthand water permeability were investigated on the produced HSC.Microstructure analyses are carried out by SEM and EDX tests. The results showed a continuous decrease in a slump with the increase in mineral material, however, 15% FS and 15% MK were determined as the optimum percentage of the desired mechanical property. HSC performs up to 88 MPa compressive strength, 7.49 MPa tensile strength, and 39.89 GPa modulus of elasticity, as well as good durability properties. Finally, the high-strength concrete under consideration is suitable for use in both conventional and non-conventional applications and supports sustainable development and infrastructure development.
Laparoscopic continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) catheter insertion; a modified technique in low resource settings and early outcome
Authors: Samarasinghe Bandula
Published: May 2022

Chronic kidney disease [CKD] has become a major health issue worldwide. In Sri Lanka, the prevalence of CKD has increased rapidly in the recent past. The definite treatment is kidney transplantation. However, due to a variety of reasons, transplantation is either delayed or not possible. Dialysis is the management modality for those patients. Peritoneal dialysis is traditionally done via temporary lines for in-ward patients in Sri Lankan hospitals. There is an increasing trend to use CAPD catheters in major renal centres. CAPD lines are inserted by several techniques. In most centres in Sri Lanka CAPD is inserted by open surgery. Laparoscopic insertion is relatively new to local patients. In this article, a novel modified technique is described, and the early outcome is analyzed.
Clinical Experiences of High-Risk Pulmonary Thromboembolism Receiving Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Single Institution
Authors: Jang Joonyong , Koo So-My , Kim Ki-Up , Kim Yang-Ki , Uh Soo-taek , Jang Gae-Eil , Chang Wonho , Lee Bo Young
Published: May 2022

Background: The main cause of death in pulmonary embolism (PE) is right-heart failure due to acute pressure overload. In this sense, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) might be useful in maintaining hemodynamic stability and improving organ perfusion. Some previous studies have reported ECMO as a bridge to reperfusion therapy of PE. However, little is known about the patients that benefit from ECMO.Methods: Patients who underwent ECMO due to pulmonary thromboembolism at a single university-affiliated hospital between January 2010 and December 2018 were retrospectively reviewed.Results: During the study period, nine patients received ECMO in high-risk PE. The median age of the patients was 60 years (range, 22–76 years), and six (66.7%) were male. All nine patients had cardiac arrests, of which three occurred outside the hospital. All the patients received mechanical support with veno-arterial ECMO, and the median ECMO duration was 1.1 days (range, 0.2–14.0 days). ECMO with anticoagulation alone was performed in six (66.7%), and ECMO with reperfusion therapy was done in three (33.3%). The 30-day mortality rate was 77.8%. The median time taken from the first cardiac arrest to initiation of ECMO was 31 minutes (range, 30–32 minutes) in survivors (n=2) and 65 minutes (range, 33–482 minutes) in non-survivors (n=7).Conclusion: High-risk PE with cardiac arrest has a high mortality rate despite aggressive management with ECMO and reperfusion therapy. Early decision to start ECMO and its rapid initiation might help save those with cardiac arrest in high-risk PE.
Spatio-temporal regularities of the White Sea ice regime formation
Authors: Baklagin Vyacheslav Nikolaevich
Published: May 2022

The paper presents the spatial and temporal regularities of the course of ice processes in the White Sea, derived from satellite data observations for the period 2004-2020. The dependences, defining indicative dates of the White Sea ice regime of air temperature regime over its water area are given, which can be used for diagnostic and prognostic purposes. It is noted that the connection with the Barents Sea has a significant impact on the course of the ice regime of the White Sea, in particular, on the beginning freeze-up phase and the beginning break-up phase. Comparative analysis of seasonal variations in ice coverage in the White Sea indicates that the course of the ice regime in recent years generally corresponds to how it happened in the second half of the XX century, however, a decrease in average values of ice coverage by 3-7% was recorded throughout the entire period of ice phenomena, which is in line with the global warming trend. Also, the results of the effects of abnormally warm winter on the formation of the White Sea ice regime of 2019-2020 are presented.
Does the Simple Renal Cyst Treatment Improve Renal Function
Authors: Mohammadi Sichani Mehrdad , Safi Reza , Haghdani Saeid , Khorrami Mohammad Hatef , Alizadeh Farshid , Izadpanahi Mohammad Hossein
Published: May 2022

Background:

The current study aims to assess the effects of the large simple renal cyst (SRC) surgery on renal function for the first time.

Materials and Methods:

This case-series study included 22 patients with larger than 50 mm single SRC who underwent laparoscopic cyst unroofing surgery. Twenty-four-hour urinary protein, creatinine, and volume along with plasma creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were measured in patients before and 1 month after surgery. Patients underwent abdominopelvic computed tomography-scan without contrast and parenchymal thickness diameter adjacent to the cyst was measured before and after surgery.

Results:

Mean age and weight of patients were 52.2 ± 8.9 years and 77 ± 10.9 akg, respectively. There was no significant difference between plasma creatinine and GFR before and after surgery (P = 0.25 and 0.37, respectively). Twenty-four-hour urinary volume, creatinine, and protein before and after surgery revealed no significant changes (P = 0.37, 0.08, and 0.31, respectively). The mean improvement of parenchymal thickness diameter after surgery was 10.4 ± 0.7 mm which was statistically significant (P = 0.001). However, it was not correlated with the mean estimated GFR change (r = 0.349, P = 0.13).

Conclusions:

Although laparoscopic unroofing of renal cyst recovered renal parenchymal thickness noticeably, it did not improve renal function significantly; therefore, the latter factor lonely should not be considered a reason for surgery decision. Observation can be chosen as a safe treatment strategy in large SRCs without concern about renal function.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Bad Sobernheim Stress Questionnaire in Iranian Adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis Using Thoracolumbar Orthoses
Authors: Jafarian Fahimeh-Sadat , Yeowell Gillian , Sadeghi-Demneh Ebrahim
Published: May 2022

Background:

The assessment of the emotional consequences of having a spinal deformity and orthotic management in people with idiopathic scoliosis is essential. This study was aimed to translate and culturally adapt the Bad Sobernheim Stress questionnaire (BSSQ-Brace) for Iranian adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis using thoracolumbar orthoses.

Materials and Methods:

The BSSQ was translated into Persian according to a standard guideline. The Persian BSSQ-Brace was completed by 55 Iranian subjects with spinal deformities who agreed to participate in this research. The validity was determined by correlating the Persian BSSQ-Brace questionnaire (BrQ) and the revised Scoliosis Research Society-22 patient questionnaire (SRS-22r). To assess test-retest reliability, all participants completed the BSSQ-Brace twice, with a gap of 1-week. Intraclass Correlation Coefficient and Cronbach's alpha were measured to report reliability.

Results:

All population revealed items in the Persian BSSQ-Brace were easily understood, and there was no difficulty completing them. The psychometric properties of the Persian version of BSSQ-Brace demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability (interclass correlation coefficient = 0.94), excellent internal consistency (Chronbach's alpha = 0.94), and high construct validity with SRS-22r (r = 0.74).

Conclusions:

The Persian BSSQ-Brace is a reliable and valid instrument to assess the emotional domains in subjects wearing a spinal orthosis.
Atypical Kawasaki Disease with Polymyositis and Panniculitis
Authors: Rajasegar Raajashri , Sugumar Kiruthiga , Chandrasekaran Venkatesh , Gunasekaran Dhandapany , Anantharaj Avinash
Published: May 2022

Background:

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a medium-vessel vasculitis that commonly affects young children. Many atypical presentations that differ from the classical phenotype have been described.

Clinical Description:

A 3-year-old boy presented with acute onset refusal to walk due to severe pain in both lower limbs for 8 days. This was accompanied by fever for 7 days. Significant findings included diffuse tenderness of bilateral thighs and leg muscles, probable normal joints, and absence of rashes, edema, significant lymphadenopathy, organomegaly, or paralysis. He had a hemoglobin of 10.6 g/dL, neutrophilic leukocytosis, and normal platelet count (384 × 109/L). He was started on intravenous cloxacillin, assuming polymyositis or acute osteomyelitis. Radiographs, ultrasonography, and bone scan of the lower limbs revealed normal bones and joints. However, magnetic resonance imaging detected patchy hyperintensities in multiple muscles, though muscle-specific enzyme levels were normal. The fever and pain persisted and investigations for other differentials (including classical KD) were inconclusive. At the end of 2nd week of illness, atypical KD was suspected, when he developed periungual skin peeling with increasing erythrocyte sedimentation rate and platelet counts.

Management:

The diagnosis was confirmed by echocardiogram proven left main coronary artery dilatation. He was started on intravenous immunoglobulin. Since fever persisted, a second dose was administered, following which defervescence occurred and his symptoms subsided.

Conclusions:

Atypical KD should be considered in a fever of unknown origin when diagnostic criteria of classical KD are not satisfied. Polymyositis and panniculitis are uncommon atypical manifestations.
Partial DiGeorge Syndrome with Hypertrophied Arytenoids in a Neonate
Authors: Madabhushi Siddharth , Saravanamuthu Thirunavukkarasu , Natarajan Chandra Kumar , Kumar Vaanathi Hementha
Published: May 2022

Background:

DiGeorge Syndrome (DGS) is caused by the 22q11 deletion. There is wide variation in the phenotypic presentation due to incomplete penetrance. Since dysmorphism is subtle in neonates, a high index of suspicion should be kept.

Clinical Description:

A 2.8 kg term baby girl born of a cesarean section developed stridor and respiratory distress and was referred to our hospital at 14 days for the persistence of symptoms. The manifestations were severe, requiring respiratory support, and not explainable by clinical findings, radiological atelectasis, and normal echocardiography. The baby had hypocalcemia (that had been noted and treated earlier), hypoparathyroidism and Vitamin D deficiency, for which standard therapy was started. Airway endoscopy revealed hypertrophied arytenoids which have not been reported in DGS before.

Management:

The presence of abnormal laryngeal with hypocalcemia prompted us to consider DGS. The likelihood became stronger when a chest ultrasonogram detected athymia. The identification of 22q microdeletion by fluorescence in situ hybridization confirmed the diagnosis. It was decided to perform supraglottoplasty to avoid the postoperative complications associated with direct vocal cord repair. The postoperative period was uneventful. The immunological profile was normal, besides a low count of normal CD4+ naïve cells. The final diagnosis was partial DGS.

Conclusion:

Genetic testing for 22q11 deletion should be done in the presence of laryngeal pathology and any of the following: congenital cardiopathy, velopharyngeal insufficiency, thymic hypoplasia, and neonatal hypocalcemia.
Last-mile Delivery of Early Childhood Development Services
Authors: Dotivala Fernaz , Edwards Namrata , Khuje Priyanka , Lobo Leera , Marathe Ashwini , Srinivasan Roopa
Published: May 2022

Background:

India has the dual challenge of a high prevalence of developmental delay and disabilities in early childhood and a paradoxical underutilization of available intervention services due to limited accessibility and acceptability by their families. Early Childhood Development (ECD) services delivered by community health workers (CHWs) ensure its last-mile delivery to every household. IIts acceptability is improved by including evidence-based, culturally, and contextually sensitive approaches as is done in the International Guide for Monitoring Child Development (IGMCD). The IGMCD is a tool that monitors and supports the development of children under 3 years of age and also enables provision of early intervention services when required. The IGMCD, recognizes caregiver strengths and priorities and helps to build a rapport between caregivers and providers.

Clinical Description:

We describe six children and their families from Velugam, Dadra-Nagar Haveli district, who received ECD services from CHWs who used the IGMCD package. These cases highlight how the CHWs used the IGMCD package to identify developmental delays, health and psychosocial risk factors to development and provide strategies to caregivers to support their children's development.

Management:

The CHW used individualized strategies to promote responsive caregiving and enhance opportunities for early learning. In addition, the IGMCD package reinforces health, nutrition, and ECD-directed messages that are provided at the Anganwadi centers.

Conclusion:

Children and families in underserved communities can receive comprehensive ECD services through CHWs who are trained to deliver the IGMCD.
Biomarkers in psychiatry
Authors: Innamuri Raviteja , Thodupunuri Shalini , Puli Sai Krishna
Published: May 2022

Unlike most medical conditions, psychiatric disorders do not have any established tests to diagnose, treat, monitor, or predict prognosis. In this article, we attempt to explain biomarkers, their categorization, and their current status in psychiatry. We explore the technologies that are currently being employed to study various prospective biomarkers in psychiatry. Hitherto, there are no established biomarkers in psychiatry, but with emerging artificial intelligence, there is a reason for hope.
Alteration of neurocognitive and functional status related to post-COVID infections
Authors: Halder Susmita , Mahato Akash Kumar , Samajdar Shinjini
Published: May 2022

Background:

The impact of COVID-19 on bodily functions is vivid. Acute respiratory distress in individuals infected with COVID-19 may lead to hypoxemia and oxygen deprivation, causing functional difficulties in brain's functioning. Studies on alterations in cognitive functioning of COVID-infected patients are less reported. The present study explored cognitive functions and functional status of COVID-infected individuals post recovery and differences, if any, corresponding to COVID infection severity.

Methods:

A total of 32 individuals of both sexes infected with COVID-19 were recruited 3 months post recovery to assess their cognitive functions and functional status across physical, psychological, social, and role function domains. The sample was further divided into two as per the infection severity and compared over differences in cognitive deficits and functional status. To understand the long-term impact, a qualitative interview was taken after 6 months from a total of ten individuals from the primary sample of moderate-to-severe group.

Results:

COVID-infected individuals as a whole did not show significant cognitive impairment on Mini–Mental Status Examination. However, the subgroups differed significantly in domains of recent memory and physical, psychological, and role functions. At six-month follow-up, select participants in qualitative interview reported to have deficits in cognitive and psychological domains.

Conclusion:

There might be subtle changes in the cognitive functions of COVID-19 patients. The changes might be transient in nature and appear not significant. However, within-group differences in recent memory function and functional status in relation to infection severity stress the need of further exploration of the domain with a larger sample in longitudinal perspective.
“Body image satisfaction and self-esteem among adult gym users and non-users”
Authors: Banerjee Indrajeet , Ali Arif , Deuri Sonia , Swain Mamata Rani , Mahanta Pomi
Published: May 2022

Background:

Body image refers to how an individual perceives and it affects individual feelings about his or her body weight and shape. Usually, in general, populations have a notion that the gym users were more concerned about their physical appearance and dissatisfied with their weight, and also it is associated with self-esteem.

Aims:

The present study aimed to find out the difference in body image satisfaction and self-esteem among adult gym users and nongym users.

Methodology:

This was a cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of 30 adult gym users and 30 adult nongym users. Adult gym users were selected purposively from the Center for Rehabilitation Sciences (wellness center), LGBRIMH, and the nongym users were from the LGBRIMH campus. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect the sociodemographic profile of the respondent, the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) was used to measure the concerns related to one's body image and a Self-Esteem Scale was used to assess the self-esteem.

Results:

BSQ score was higher for the nongym users, indicating a higher level of dissatisfaction with body image (M = 68.80, standard deviation [SD] = 33.94) as compared to gym users (M = 59.133, SD = 25.477), self-esteem was high among gym users (M = 0.21.333, SD = 5.254) as compared to nonusers (M = 16.90, SD = 5.695). Statistically no significant difference was found between the groups in BSQ and self-esteem.

Conclusion:

This study's findings revealed that the nongym users were scored higher in BSQ which indicated a higher level of dissatisfaction with body image and low self-esteem, whereas the gym user's score indicated a higher level of satisfaction with body image and a higher level of self-esteem. Although statistically no significant difference was found between the groups in BSQ and self-esteem. Appropriate psychosocial intervention can be provided to address body image dissatisfaction and other factors associated with it among the general population.
Histories of intimate partner violence among women in short-stay shelter homes
Authors: Shilpa K. S. , Suman L. N.
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Among all kinds of violence that is experienced by women, Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) has been found to be the most common type. This can take the form of physical, sexual, financial, and emotional violence.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to examine the histories of IPV among women in short-stay shelter homes.

Materials and Methods:

The sample consisted of 30 married women from three shelter homes in Bengaluru (mean age = 32.43 years). A socio-demographic data sheet (SDS), a semi-structured interview schedule and three visual analog scales (VAS) were used to obtain data related to IPV. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze data obtained on the SDS and VAS. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data obtained.

Results:

Results indicated that 96.70% of the women experienced a combination of emotional and physical violence from their spouses. Financial violence was reported by 70% and sexual violence by 36.60%. On the VASs, the severity of IPV was rated as 8.5, perceived danger from the spouse was rated as 7.5, and perceived social support was rated as 3.9.

Conclusions:

Results revealed a high prevalence of IPV, severe degree of IPV, and the women perceived significant danger from their spouses and poor social support from significant others. This indicates the need for adequate psychosocial intervention to address IPV and its consequences.
Новые конечномерные гамильтоновы системы со смешанной пуассоновой структурой для уравнения КдФ
Authors: Du Dianlou , Wang Xue
Published: May 2022

Путем преобразования собственной функции выводится пара Лакса для уравнения КдФ. С помощью полиномиального разложения собственной функции этой пары Лакса получены конечномерные интегрируемые системы. Доказано, что эти интегрируемые системы являются гамильтоновыми с новой пуассоновой структурой, у которой элементы матрицы структуры представляют собой смесь линейных и квадратичных функций координат. Для построения производящей функции сохраняющихся интегралов вводятся нечетная и четная функции спектрального параметра. На основе производящей функции показана интегрируемость этих гамильтоновых систем.