bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simplified Structural Analysis Techniquest for Trunnion-Type Hub Mechanisms of Controllable Pitch Propellers
Authors: Vassilopoulos Lyssimachos , Ghosh Pranab K.
Published: November 2022

A step-by-step procedure has been developed and is presented in this paper for the static analysis of components that make up the hub mechanism of a trunnion-type controllable pitch propeller. After reviewing the state of the art in this field and highlighting the need for such a method in the early design stages, the paper outlines the techniques available for reducing external loads that are considered as input information together with the geometric and material data for each component. Simple expressions are then derived and used for computing the internal loads, stresses, and deflections of blade trunnions, pins, cranks, spherical bearings, links, crossheads, piston, threads, bolts, operating rod, hub body, inner pedestal, and guide rods. A computer program that is based on this method has been developed for use on an IBM PC computer and typical results are presented for an existing propeller. Recommendations are given for continued research in this area.
Effect of Skew on Stresses in Backing Fixed-Pitch Propellers
Authors: Luttmer B. R. I. , Hylarides S.
Published: November 2022

Strength requirements on propellers in backing operations are hardly defined but they are found necessary for highly skewed propellers. The present paper illustrates how the MARIN design procedure copes with this aspect.

Relevant analysis conditions for backing operation and allowable stress levels are discussed. The relevance of strength calculations is demonstrated on the four propellers with systematically varied skew-back angles of 0, 30, 60, and 90 degrees. Finite element stress calculations lead to the conclusion that in backing operation the highest stresses occur at the trailing edge beyond the 0.8 radius and that the maximum stress varies almost linearly with the skew angle. Maximum astern power instead of the minimum required revolution rate, being 70% of the head value, could lead to such stress levels that tip bending happens.

For the derivation of the lift distribution use is the made of the lifting surface theory. Its applicability for backing operation is verified by comparing the calculated open water characteristics with measurements. Boundary layer observations by means of paint tests give information on the extent of separation. For the 90-degree skew propeller, this leads to behavior which is difficult to interpret and with unknown consequences for the detailed lift contribution.
Improved Techniques for the Experimental Determination of Propeller Field Point Velocities Using Laser Doppler Anemometry
Authors: Schoenberger Robert B.
Published: November 2022

A new technique for determining Field Point Velocities around a propeller using Laser Doppler Anemometry. The details of the technique plus the selected results of three experiments are presented. The results presented show field point velocities around a skewed propeller and around a tandem propeller. The skewed propeller was tested both in uniform inflow and in the axisymmetric wake. The first demonstrated the technique’s accuracy by comparing it favorably to computer potential flow predictions. The second test demonstrated the ability of the new technique to study small-scale features, specifically tip forces in detail. The tandem propeller was tested in two different configurations, both in uniform inflow. This demonstrated the agility of the new technique to d large quantity testing over large areas.
Stress Analysis of Highly Skewed Propeller Blades Using the Finite Element Method
Authors: Sunnersjo C. S.
Published: November 2022

The design of highly skewed propellers requires that special attention is given to the stress analysis of the blade. In this paper a number of Finite Element computer programs are applied to different element layouts on a highly skewed reference blade with uniform load. The calculated stresses are compared with measurements, the result of which shows that a certain care must be exercised for the choice of elements as well as node-pattern if the resulting accuracy is to be acceptable.

In order to simplify indata preparation a suite of existing programs giving propeller geometry, profile loading conditions and pressure distribution have been linked together and supplemented with a program that converts the output from these programs into a complete in data deck for a Finite Element Program. The program package produces plots and print-outs at a number of control stations during the process. The thus developed method for calculation of load and resulting stress distribution is applied to the SSPA skew propeller series. Stress distribution for forward and backing cases are studied as a function of skew angle, all other factors being kept constant. The results indicate an increase in stress with skew, which is of particular importance during backing.

Hydroelastic effects become potentially dangerous during backing of extreme skew-back propellers. When gradually increasing speed during backing a critical speed is approached at which the hydrodynamic forces and moments increase faster with angle of attack than the restoring elastic forces and moments do. This is a point of instability. Also well below the critical speed the hydrodynamic effects cause an increase in stress levels that cannot be neglected. One approximative and one more rigorous method to determine these effects are presented.
Technology Trends for Naval Propulsion
Authors: Nelka John J.
Published: November 2022

This paper discusses trends in naval propulsion technology. While the most common type of propulsor – the screw propeller - has reached a high state of development, there are still improvements which can be made in ship propulsor systems which offer the expectation of modest gains in propulsive efficiency during the next 10 to 15 years. These improvements include better analytical tools; devices that recover the rotational energy in a propeller wake, such as contrarotating propellers, pre-swirl vanes, and vane wheels; devices that provide more uniform inflow conditions to the propeller, such as flow straightening vanes and nozzles; and hybrid combinations of propulsors which utilize each propulsor in its optimum operating range.
Development of a Hybrid Propulsion System
Authors: Kruppa Claus F. L. , Wuhrer Wolfgang
Published: November 2022

For the propulsion of high speed vessels of the semi-displacement or planing type a propulsion system has been designed and tested at model scale which uses partially submerged controllable pitch propellers in semi-ducts for the high speed boost condition. For low speed cruising the same propellers operate fully wetted. The two different operating modes are achieved by adjusting a hinged split flap at the semi-duct inlet ramp. Design and evaluation of the so-called hybrid propulsion system are based on a case study. They comprise the hydrodynamic design of a 6-bladed propeller as well as the mechanical design of the associated controllable pitch propeller hub. Semi-duct and flap design, together with the necessary adaption of the afterbody of a thoroughly tested semi-displacement hull, are also part of the feasibility study. The evaluation of the system at model scale includes comprehensive cavitation tunnel and towing tank tests. As a result, a number of inherent advantages of the system over conventional alternatives can be claimed. In particular, the noncavitating high speed capability must be mentioned in this context. High power density and a low propeller generated noise level are additional features of the system.
Pediatric Aggressive Mature B-Cell Lymphomas, Version 3.2022, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology
Authors: Barth Matthew , Xavier Ana C. , Armenian Saro , Audino Anthony N. , Blazin Lindsay , Bloom David , Chung Jong , Davies Kimberly , Ding Hilda , Ford James B. , Galardy Paul J. , Hanna Rabi , Hayashi Robert , Lee-Miller Cathy , Machnitz Andrea Judit , Maloney Kelly W. , Marks Lianna , Martin Paul L. , McCall David , Pacheco Martha , Reilly Anne F. , Roshal Mikhail , Song Sophie , Weinstein Joanna , Zarnegar-Lumley Sara , McMillian Nicole , Schonfeld Ryan , Sundar Hema
Published: November 2022

NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines) for Pediatric Aggressive Mature B-Cell Lymphomas include recommendations for the diagnosis and management of pediatric patients with primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma (PMBL) and sporadic variants of Burkitt lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. PMBL is now considered as a distinct entity arising from mature thymic B-cells accounting for 2% of mature B-cell lymphomas in children and adolescents. This discussion section includes the recommendations outlined in the NCCN Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of pediatric patients with PMBL.
NCCN Guidelines® Insights: Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors, Version 2.2022
Authors: von Mehren Margaret , Kane John M. , Riedel Richard F. , Sicklick Jason K. , Pollack Seth M. , Agulnik Mark , Bui Marilyn M. , Carr-Ascher Janai , Choy Edwin , Connelly Mary , Dry Sarah , Ganjoo Kristen N. , Gonzalez Ricardo J. , Holder Ashley , Homsi Jade , Keedy Vicki , Kelly Ciara M. , Kim Edward , Liebner David , McCarter Martin , McGarry Sean V. , Mesko Nathan W. , Meyer Christian , Pappo Alberto S. , Parkes Amanda M. , Petersen Ivy A. , Poppe Matthew , Schuetze Scott , Shabason Jacob , Spraker Matthew B. , Zimel Melissa , Bergman Mary Anne , Sundar Hema , Hang Lisa E.
Published: November 2022

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are the most common type of soft tissue sarcoma that occur throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Most of these tumors are caused by oncogenic activating mutations in theKITorPDGFRAgenes. The NCCN Guidelines for GIST provide recommendations for the diagnosis, evaluation, treatment, and follow-up of patients with these tumors. These NCCN Guidelines Insights summarize the panel discussion behind recent important updates to the guidelines, including revised systemic therapy options for unresectable, progressive, or metastatic GIST based on mutational status, and updated recommendations for the management of GIST that develop resistance to specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Association Between Frailty and Time Alive and At Home After Cancer Surgery Among Older Adults: A Population-Based Analysis
Authors: Hallet Julie , Tillman Bourke , Zuckerman Jesse , Guttman Matthew P. , Chesney Tyler , Mahar Alyson L. , Chan Wing C. , Coburn Natalie , Haas Barbara , _ _
Published: November 2022

Background:Although frailty is known to impact short-term postoperative outcomes, its long-term impact is unknown. This study examined the association between frailty and remaining alive and at home after cancer surgery among older adults.Methods:Adults aged ≥70 years undergoing cancer resection were included in this population-based retrospective cohort study using linked administrative datasets in Ontario, Canada. The probability of remaining alive and at home in the 5 years after cancer resection was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier methods. Extended Cox regression with time-varying effects examined the association between frailty and remaining alive and at home.Results:Of 82,037 patients, 6,443 (7.9%) had preoperative frailty. With median follow-up of 47 months (interquartile range, 23–81 months), patients with frailty had a significantly lower probability of remaining alive and at home 5 years after cancer surgery compared with those without frailty (39.1% [95% CI, 37.8%–40.4%] vs 62.5% [95% CI, 62.1%–63.9%]). After adjusting for age, sex, rural living, material deprivation, immigration status, cancer type, surgical procedure intensity, year of surgery, and receipt of perioperative therapy, frailty remained associated with increased hazards of not remaining alive and at home. This increase was highest 31 to 90 days after surgery (hazard ratio [HR], 2.00 [95% CI, 1.78–2.24]) and remained significantly elevated beyond 1 year after surgery (HR, 1.56 [95% CI, 1.48–1.64]). This pattern was observed across cancer sites, including those requiring low-intensity surgery (breast and melanoma).Conclusions:Preoperative frailty was independently associated with a decreased probability of remaining alive and at home after cancer surgery among older adults. This relationship persisted over time for all cancer types beyond short-term mortality and the initial postoperative period. Frailty assessment may be useful for all candidates for cancer surgery, and these data can be used when counseling, selecting, and preparing patients for surgery.
Paid Sick Leave Among Working Cancer Survivors and Its Associations With Use of Preventive Services in the United States
Authors: Zheng Zhiyuan , Fedewa Stacey A. , Islami Farhad , Nogueira Leticia , Han Xuesong , Zhao Jingxuan , Song Weishan , Jemal Ahmedin , Yabroff K. Robin
Published: November 2022

Background: We sought to examine the lack of paid sick leave among working cancer survivors by sociodemographic/socioeconomic and employment characteristics and its association with preventive services use in the United States. Methods: Working cancer survivors (ages 18–64 years; n=7,995; weighted n=3.43 million) were identified using 2001–2018 National Health Interview Survey data. Adjusted prevalence of lack of paid sick leave by sociodemographic and socioeconomic characteristics, as well as job sector, working hours, and employer size, were generated using multivariable logistic regression models. Separate analyses examined the associations of lack of paid sick leave with use of various preventive services. Results: Of all working cancer survivors, 36.4% lacked paid sick leave (n=2,925; weighted n=1.25 million), especially those working in food/agriculture/construction/personal services occupations or industries (ranging from 54.9% to 88.5%). In adjusted analyses, working cancer survivors with lower household income (<200% of the federal poverty level, 48.7%), without a high school degree (43.3%), without health insurance coverage (70.6%), and who were self-employed (89.5%), were part-time workers (68.2%), or worked in small businesses (<50 employees, 48.8%) were most likely to lack paid sick leave. Lack of paid sick leave was associated with lower use of influenza vaccine (ages 18–39 years, 21.3% vs 33.3%; ages 40–49 years, 25.8% vs 38.3%; ages 50–64 years, 46.3% vs 52.4%; P<.001 for all), cholesterol screening (ages 18–39 years, 43.1% vs 62.5%; P<.05), and blood pressure check (ages 18–39 years, 43.1% vs 62.5%; P<.05) compared with survivors having paid sick leave. Conclusions: In the United States, more than one-third of all working cancer survivors and more than half of survivors working for small employers and in certain occupations/industries lack paid sick leave. Survivors with lower household income or educational attainment are particularly vulnerable. Moreover, lack of paid sick leave is associated with lower use of some recommended preventive services, suggesting that ensuring working cancer survivors have access to paid sick leave may be an important mechanism for reducing health disparities.
A ascensão da levedura: como um simples fungo moldou nossa civilização
Authors: Money Nicholas P.
Published: November 2022

Este livro conta a história surpreendente da importância da levedura no desenvolvimento da civilização humana. “Era uma vez um micróbio que…” passou a fazer parte da produção de cerveja, de vinho e de pães, há cerca de dez mil anos. Desde então, nunca mais deixamos de ser parceiros desse fungo extraordinário. No século XIX tomamos consciência de sua existência e passamos a aplicar conhecimentos científicos para melhorar os processos de produção de alimentos. Com o tempo, esse fungo unicelular demonstrou ser um excelente material para estudos científicos, e muito do que sabemos hoje em biologia, incluindo a cura de inúmeras doenças, foi desvendado com a ajuda da levedura. Até as mudanças climáticas, problema fundamental, podem ser combatidas usando biocombustíveis produzidos por leveduras, que também vivem em nossa pele e em nosso sistema digestivo. Usando uma linguagem acessível e que provoca a curiosidade do leitor, mas sempre com embasamento científico, esta obra abre nossos olhos para a poderosa e indissociável realidade microscópica que nos envolve.
Predicting no-shows for dental appointments
Authors: Alabdulkarim Yazeed , Almukaynizi Mohammed , Alameer Abdulmajeed , Makanati Bassil , Althumairy Riyadh , Almaslukh Abdulaziz
Published: November 2022

Patient no-shows is a significant problem in healthcare, reaching up to 80% of booked appointments and costing billions of dollars. Predicting no-shows for individual patients empowers clinics to implement better mitigation strategies. Patients’ no-show behavior varies across health clinics and the types of appointments, calling for fine-grained studies to uncover these variations in no-show patterns. This article focuses on dental appointments because they are notably longer than regular medical appointments due to the complexity of dental procedures. We leverage machine learning techniques to develop predictive models for dental no-shows, with the best model achieving an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.718 and an F1 score of 66.5%. Additionally, we propose and evaluate a novel method to represent no-show history as a binary sequence of events, enabling the predictive models to learn the associated future no-show behavior with these patterns. We discuss the utility of no-show predictions to improve the scheduling of dental appointments, such as reallocating appointments and reducing their duration.
Study on the risk of coronary heart disease in middle-aged and young people based on machine learning methods: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Cao Jiaoyu , Zhang Lixiang , Ma Likun , Zhou Xiaojuan , Yang Beibei , Wang Wenjing
Published: November 2022

Objective

To identify coronary heart disease risk factors in young and middle-aged persons and develop a tailored risk prediction model.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was used in this research. From January 2017 to January 2020, 553 patients in the Department of Cardiology at a tertiary hospital in Anhui Province were chosen as research subjects. The research subjects were separated into two groups based on the results of coronary angiography performed during hospitalization (n = 201) and non-coronary heart disease (n = 352). R software (R 3.6.1) was used to analyze the clinical data of the two groups. A logistic regression prediction model and three machine learning models, including BP neural network, Extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), and random forest, were built, and the best prediction model was chosen based on the relevant parameters of the different machine learning models.

Results

Univariate analysis identified a total of 24 indexes with statistically significant differences between coronary heart disease and non-coronary heart disease groups, which were incorporated in the logistic regression model and three machine learning models. The AUCs of the test set in the logistic regression prediction model, BP neural network model, random forest model, and XGBoost model were 0.829, 0.795, 0.928, and 0.940, respectively, and the F1 scores were 0.634, 0.606, 0.846, and 0.887, indicating that the XGBoost model’s prediction value was the best.

Conclusion

The XGBoost model, which is based on coronary heart disease risk factors in young and middle-aged people, has a high risk prediction efficiency for coronary heart disease in young and middle-aged people and can help clinical medical staff screen young and middle-aged people at high risk of coronary heart disease in clinical practice.
Herbivore camping reshapes the taxonomy, function and network of pasture soil microbial communities
Authors: Wang Puchang , Ding Leilei , Li Fuxiang , Liao Jiafa , Wang Mengya
Published: November 2022

Although the effects of herbivore camping on soil physicochemical properties have been studied, whether the effects alter the soil microbial communities (e.g., composition, functions, taxonomic and functional diversities, network) remain unknown, especially below the surface. Here, using paired subsoil samples from half month-camping and non-camping, we showed for the first time that camping significantly changed the relative abundance of 21 bacterial phylotypes and five fungal phylotypes. Specifically, we observed significant increases in the relative abundance of putative chitinase and terpenes vanillin-decomposition genes, nitrite reduction function (nirB, nasA), decreases in the relative abundance of putative carbon fixation genes (ackA, PGK, and Pak), starch-decomposition gene (dexB), gene coding nitrogenase (anfG), and tetracycline resistance gene (tetB) for bacterial communities, and significant decreases in the relative abundance of animal endosymbiont and increases in the relative abundance of litter saprotroph and endophyte for fungal communities. However, camping did not significantly impact the taxonomic and functional diversity. The niche restriction was the main driving force of bacterial and fungal community assembly. Compared to no camping, camping increased the stability of bacterial networks but decreased the stability of fungal networks. Camping exerted a positive effect on the network by compressing the niche width and reduced the change in the network by reducing the niche overlap. Our results suggest that camping restructures the soil microbial composition, function, and network, and provides a novel insight into the effect of animal camping on soil microbial communities in grassland.
MRI Evaluation of Invasive Sinonasal Mucormycosis in Post COVID-19 Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Kotian Vidyashree Shridhar , Pandith Manasa , Kakade Sachin Dinesh
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Mucormycosis is also known as phycomycosis or zygomycosis, is caused by a saprophytic fungal infection. During the second wave of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID- 19), secondary complication among clinically severe COVID-19 with or without diabetes was the involvement of the paranasal sinuses, rhino-orbitalocerebral, cutaneous, gastric and lungs by mucormycosis. The disease progresses rapidly within a few hours to days, causing cranial nerve palsies and intracranial spread of the disease. Early imaging is helpful in assessing the extent of the spread of the disease and complications and planning the treatment. Aim: The purpose of this study is to assess the distinct MRI findings in invasive sinonasal mucormycosis in post COVID-19 patients and also to describe the various patterns of extension. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was carried out on post COVID patients with imaging features of invasive sinonasal mucormycosis in the rural population of Hoskote, Bangalore, who underwent MRI at MVJ Medical College and Research Hospital, Hoskote, Bangalore, India in a tertiary care center, between May 2021 to July 2021. A total of 20 patients met the inclusion criteria. The various imaging features of invasive sinonasal mucormycosis were evaluated and tabulated, along with a description of its extensions. All the data obtained from the study was compiled with Microsoft Excel (2019 version). Results: The study showed a male predominance with a mean age of 47.5 years. The most commonly involved sinus was the ethmoid sinus, seen in all 20 patients (100%), followed by a combination of the ethmoid and maxillary sinus 10 (50%). MRI showed T2W hyperintense mucosal thickening with hypointense contents within the involved sinuses in all cases, hypointensity along the turbinates and nasal septum and heterogeneous post contrast enhancement. The intraorbital extension was seen in 15 patients (75%), intracranial involvement in 4 patients (20%), bone involvement in 2 cases (10%) and pterygopalatine fossa involvement in 5 patients (25%), face involvement seen in 2 patients (10%). Conclusion: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) aids in a thorough evaluation of intracranial and soft tissue involvement, orbital, skull base invasion, perineural spread and vascular invasion. MRI demonstrates variable signal intensity depending on the sinus contents and variable enhancement patterns with a lack of enhancement due to tissue necrosis, an early finding of mucormycosis. Therefore, radiologists should be aware of the imaging findings and evaluation of the extensions, which can lead to early diagnosis and timely management, reducing the morbidity and mortality rates.
Effect of Suryanamaskar on the Sleep Quality and General Well-being among Young Adults: A Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: Chawla Jasmine Kaur , Arya Tamanna , Sharma Roshani , Kumar Pragya
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Rapid decline in physical functionality has an adverse impact on both physical and psychological health. Deteriorating sleep quality during the pandemic is one such common manifestation, that further affects the general well-being. Therefore, safe non pharmacological treatments are warranted, and the practice of suryanamaskar is one such intervention. Aim: To find the effectiveness of suryanamaskar on sleep quality and general well-being among young adults. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted in Physiotherapy Department at Ashirwad Bhagwat Multispecialty Clinic, Sonipat, Haryana, from March 2021 to July 2021. A total of 30 young adults were enrolled in the study and randomly divided into two groups of 15 participants each. The experimental group practiced 8 weeks of suryanamaskar yogic exercise, also known as sun salutations, which comprises of 12 different postures performed with controlled breathing. The control group performed 20 mins of walk. Sleep quality and General Well-being (GWB) were evaluated preintervention and postintervention using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Psychological General Well-Being Index (PGWBI) respectively, along with the resting Heart Rate (HR) and Blood Pressure (BP). A higher PGWBI score denotes greater psychological well-being and a total PSQI score of 5 or more indicates poor sleep quality. The effect of the intervention on GWB, sleep quality, BP and HR were assessed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test within the group and the Mann-Whitney test was used to find a statistical difference between the two groups. Results: After 8 weeks of yoga training, a significant difference was found in the overall sleep quality (9.53±1.68, p-value=0.001), GWB (78.33±14.76, p-value=0.001), HR (77.07±5.48, p-value=0.001), SBP (116.67±2.99, p-value=0.001) and BMI (23.01±3.17, p-value=0.019) in the experimental group. However, the control group revealed a significant difference only in the GWB (50.80±13.87, p-value=0.019) postintervention. Additionally, when compared to the control group, the experimental group revealed statistically significant results for sleep quality (p-value=0.001), GWB (p-value <0.001) and HR (p-value=0.007). Conclusion: The study suggests, that yoga training comprising suryanamaskar has positive effects on sleep quality and general well-being.
Comparative Evaluation of Microshear Bond Strength of Adhesive Resin Incorporated with Inorganic Nanofillers Cerium Dioxide: An In-vitro Study
Authors: Suryarao Pallavi Sharad , Gaonkar Namrata , Shashikiran ND , Hadakar Savita , Gugawad Sachin , Taur Swapnil
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Dental adhesives are used for a wide range of clinical applications in dentistry. Bonding is required in direct composite resin restorations. In clinical situation, resin to dentin bonds are less resistant than resin to enamel bonds. Because of varying structure and composition of dentin the failure of resin-dentin bonding resulting in staining, caries recurrence microleakage. These set of circumstances can hasten the failure and degradation of resin to dentin bonding hence inorganic fillers can be added to improve the bond strength. Cerium dioxide (CeO2 ) is a rare earth oxide has been increasingly used as a nanotherapeutic material and can be successfully used in adhesive resin to improve the physical properties of adhesive resin. Aim: To evaluate and compare microshear bond strength of adhesive resin after incorporation of inorganic nanofillers cerium dioxide. Materials and Methods: This in-vitro study was conducted in Department of Preventive and Paediatric Dentistry at School of Dental Sciences, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, Karad, Maharashtra, India, from February 2022 to April 2022. The unfilled dental adhesive was used as a control (group A) and dental adhesives formulated with nanosized Cerium dioxide (CeO2 ) as the inorganic filler (group B). Total 24 samples were prepared 12 samples each group and adhesives were evaluated for microshear bond strength. Intragroup comparison between experimental and control group was done using Unpaired t-test. Results: The mean microshear bond strength of the adhesive system containing nanosized cerium dioxide at a concentration of 2% was 6.89±2.22 MPa (group B), which was significantly greater than that of the adhesive system without additives (group A) 4.37±1.22 MPa. Conclusion: Microshear bond strength of the dental adhesives with nanosized CeO2 particles, was significantly higher than the unfilled adhesive.
Productive and Economic Potential Assessment of Maize (Zea mays L.) Varieties under Fertilizers Influence in the Coastal Zone of Togo
Authors: Mazinagou Mihikouwè , Sogbedji Jean Mianikpo , N’gbendema Atchala
Published: November 2022

The sustainable improvement of maize productivity and smallholders’ incomes to contribute to food security is the objective of this study carried out over two consecutive years (2020 and 2021) at the University of Lomé Agronomic Experiment Station. The experiment was set up in a split-plot design, composed of sixteen (16) treatments in three (03) replicates each. Four varieties: Ikenné (V1) Tzee (V2), Sotubaka (V3) and Sammaz 52 (V4) and four fertilization schemes: 0 kgha-1 (F0); 200 kgha-1 of NPK: 15-15-15+100 kgha-1 of urea 46%N (F1); 6 000 kgha-1 of chicken dungs (F2) and 6 000 kgha-1 of small ruminant dungs (F3) were the studied factors. Maize grain yields were determined, and an economic analysis was done. The results analysis showed that varieties and fertilization schemes significantly affected maize grain yields. Sotubaka (V3) was the most productive variety during the two years of experiment. The average yield obtained under V3 (3.56±0.65 t ha-1) was higher than those of Ikenné, Tzee and Sammaz 52 varieties respectively by 20, 57 and 5%. The average yield recorded under F2 was higher than those of F0, F1 and F3 by 54, 3 and 17% respectively. On a 2-year average basis, the application of 200 kgha-1 of NPK: 15-15-15+100 kgha-1 of urea 46%N (F1) gave the highest maize grain yields under V1 (3.43±0.13 t ha-1) and V2 (2.60±0.15 t ha-1); while the highest maize grain yields under V3 (4.29±0.12 t ha-1) and V4 (3.95±0.11 t ha-1) were obtained with the supply of  6 000 kgha-1 of chicken dungs (F2). On the same 2-year average basis, the highest profits were obtained under Ikenné (343 000 FCFA ha-1=US$ 512.46) and Tzee (177 000 FCFA ha-1=US$ 264.45) with the application of F1. For Sotubaka (480 000 FCFA ha-1=US$ 717.14) and Sammaz 52 (415 000 FCFA ha-1=US$ 620.03), the highest profit was obtained with the application of F2. For successful maize cultivation, it was advisable to use F1 for Ikenne and Tzee varieties and F2 for Sotubaka and Sammaz 52 varieties.
The Trace Elements of Drinking Water and Longevity Phenomenon
Authors: Vilches Alexandra Esther Ortega
Published: November 2022

The narrative review explores how the level of trace element intake and its retention influence life expectancy and centenarian longevity of the blue zones (longevity hot spots) in Mayang, China in comparison to Ikaria Island. Both Mayang City in China and Ikaria Island have the greatest population of centenarians. Since the beginning of time, mankind has been interested in eternal life, and the answer may exist in these longevity hot spots like Mayang, China and Ikaria Island. Empires and civilizations were built on the promise of a ‘forever life,’ and many fundamental questions provided a basis to explore the trace elements of drinking water and the longevity phenomenon. Such fundamental questions derived from ‘what warranties our existence,’‘what are we made of and ‘can we live forever’ which contribute to the quest for longevity. Though much is known about how some people reach old age compared to those who die relatively young, there is a need to further understand beyond ‘Nature vs. Nurture.’ Since genetics is not the only factor contributing to a long life, there must be other factors such as trace elements that allow humans to become centenarians. Collective results from different studies with a focus on water toxicity levels, nutrient intake, and centenarians’ hair and urine may help determine the common denominator for the phenomenon of longevity, which may significantly contribute to the body of literature.
The Unique Adoption of Inflation Targeting Monetary Policy: Lessons from an Emerging Economy
Authors: Achiyaale Raymond Awonatezuaka , Mbilla Simon Akumbo Eugene , Feruta Erskine Sangbunu , Adaletey Jennifer Ellah
Published: November 2022

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which formal announcement of inflation targeting impacts on inflation and inflation volatility, from an emerging economy’s perspective.

Methodology: Annual time series data from 1985 to 2014, which was sourced from the World Development Indicators (WDI) and the Bank of Ghana (BoG) was used. The data was interpolated into quarterly data using E-Views. The GARCH (1 1) and AR 2-Newey West Models were employed.

Findings: The study found that the formal announcement of inflation targeting had a significant negative impact on inflation and its volatility. Thus, the study discovered that research works arguing that inflation targeting has no beneficial influence on inflation must take into account the type of economic structure at play, policy credibility, institutional efficiency, and the general public's responsiveness to institutional policies and information.

Implications: This scholarly work would aid policy makers, academic institutions and the understanding of the general public in matters of inflation targeting. This paper concludes that the formal announcement of inflation targeting contributes greatly to stabilize both the inflation rate and inflation volatility, and that, countries that adopt a piloting-based adoption will not achieve the gains of the policy framework within the piloting period.
Effect of Organic Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield Attributes of Different Varieties of Rice
Authors: Anjna Mahendra , Sahu R. P. , Kurmi Pragya , Sharma Aparna , Shukla V. K.
Published: November 2022

A field experiment was conducted during kharif season 2018 at the Research Farm of Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (MP) to evaluate the “Effect of organic nutrient management on growth and yield attributes of different varieties of rice”. The experiment was laid out in RBD involving twelve rice varieties in triplicate. A uniform dose of organic manures i.e. 1/3rd Nitrogen through each of farm yard manure, neem cake and vermicompost were applied to all the varieties. Results of the study revealed that Pusa Sugandha 3 has recorded significantly higher growth parameters viz., plant height (69.80 cm), number of tillers per hill (13.53) and dry matter production per hill (43.39 g) among all the varieties. Among yield attributes significantly higher number of effective tillers per hill (11.40), total number of grains per panicle (164.67), panicle length (25.33 cm), grain yield (3298 kg ha-1) and straw yield (5463 kg ha-1) were recorded under Pusa Sugandha 3 variety of rice. However Sahyadri and MTU 1010 reported the highest sterility percentage (17.62) and test weight (24.45 g) respectively.
Performance of Tree Species and Their Effects on Soil Properties in Chromite Mine Spoil Areas
Authors: Debashisa Monali , Mishra Prasannajit , Behera B. B. , Sahoo Gyanaranjan , Nair Smitha G.
Published: November 2022

An experiment was carried out at Kakudia dump of Sukinda chromite mines, Tata Steel Limited, Kalarangiata, Jajpur, which is located near the trijunction of Cuttack, Dhenkanal and Keonjhar districts of Odisha, where 10 tree species from plantation were selected, their growth parameters were measured, volume and biomass was estimated and soil samples were analyzed for heavy metal contents which are collected from the root zone of tree species. Around 12 mines are operating in the area without proper environmental pollution controls, which cause major health hazards. According to estimates from an Indian health group, hexavalent chromium levels in drinking water are around 60% higher than the international norms, and chromite-related illnesses are thought to be the cause of 84.75 percent of fatalities in mining regions with no controls. There has been virtually no attempt to clean up the contamination. The experiment was based on three plantation blocks which consists of ten forest species such as Melia azedarach L., Samanea saman F. Muell., Syzygium cumini L., Acacia mangium Wild., Alstonia scholaris L., Pongamia pinnata L., Casuarina equisetifolia L., Azadirachta indica A. Juss., Anacardium occidentale L., Neolamarckia cadamba Roxb. and control with a mine barren spoil and natural forest. Casuarina equisetifolia recorded significantly highest height (10.43 m), DBH (13.99 cm), crown length (8.37 m), crown spread (4.2 m), volume (0.354 m3) and biomass (115.74 kg tree-1). Acacia mangium was the next best tree species followed by Anacardium occidentale, Neolamarckia cadamba, Syzygium cumini, Pongamia pinnata, Samanea saman, Melia azedarach, Azadirachta indica and Alstonia scholaris. Also, there is significant and positive correlation found among all the tree growth parameters. Among the growth parameters of trees, positive and significantly highest correlations was observed between tree DBH and tree biomass (r = 0.997761) followed by tree volume and tree biomass (r= 0.980047).
Thermal Behavior Analysis of Geothermal Systems under the Influence of Rock-Formation Structures
Authors: Aragon-Aguilar Alfonso , Arriola-Medellin Alejandro
Published: November 2022

As part of the reservoir static characterization technique, behavior analyses of some of the obtained variables during the drilling and completion stages of wells of the Los Humeros Geothermal field (LHGF) are shown. It was used information obtained during both, the drilling and completion stages of the wells. The base information used data are those from thermodynamic measurements (temperature, pressure) and fluid circulation losses profiles. The determination of reservoir thermodynamic parameters initial conditions together with the analysis used at the completion stage allows identifying the thickness of the rock formation which in some cases be used for exploitation. The anisotropy of the rock formation shown through the heterogeneous behavior of the field wells is related to its volcanic environment and structures. Through the application of the analysis of thermodynamic behavior after well completion, were identified individual behavior profiles in each of them. However, after the selection of profiles with a similar trend, it was found that these, are related to location of each well. The particular behavior of some of the LHGF wells is used to identify compartments existence in the system which influences both, rock formation continuity at depth and geological structures that impact in fluid flow and its thermodynamic parameters. The found parameters during drilling wells are the technical sustain for taking decisions on its best completion depth. This information also is useful for selecting the thickness which must be exploited, in order to assure wells productivity. Through the different analyses applied in LHGF, besides obtaining reservoir static characterization can be identified that the geological structures influence its behavior.
Human Resource Practices and Performance Contracting in the Petroleum Industry in Kenya: A Case Study of Vivo Energy Investment Mombasa
Authors: Githui Phyllis Nyagichuhi
Published: November 2022

The main objective of the research was to examine the human resource practices and performance contracting in the petroleum industry in Kenya. The research was done at vivo energy investment based in Mombasa County. The study was supported by Expectancy Theory and also McGregor’s theory X and Y. The research adopted a descriptive research design for data collection and analysis.  The target population of the research was 300 staff of the Vivo Energy Investment Mombasa and the investigator targeted a sample size of 90 respondents which is 30% of the total respondents. . The questionnaire was used as the research instrument for data collection in the study and analyzed through descriptive data analysis tools like tables, figures, percentages and SPSS. The research also applied the regression analysis to establish the affiliation amid the dependent as well as the independent variables. The coefficient of determination implied that the set of independent variables in this study accounts for 52% of variations in the performance contracting in the petroleum industry. The remaining percentage (48%) is accounted for by other variables outside the model. The result indicates that knowledge and information regarding the independent variables provides a great proportion of information regarding performance contracting in the petroleum industry in Kenya. The study recommended that vivo energy investment ought to include in their individual rewards a real reward administration in lieu of safeguarding efficacy as well as impartiality in their reward system. Such a system must observe the diverse areas work fairly. Consequently, the employee, cleaners and the like must be handled just like the senior fiscal administrators during the rewarding. The study findings lead to concluding that employee training at vivo energy investment in Mombasa Kenya has a positive effect on employee recital of these establishments. The correlation between the independent variables (employee’s training, employee compensation, and performance appraisal and employee promotion) and the dependent variable (performance contracting) results shows that all are positive and significant. In particular, employee’s training is positively and significantly correlated (r=.033, p<.05). Similarly, employee compensation (r=.203, p<.05), performance appraisal (r=.075, p<.05), and employee promotion (r=.230, p<.05) are positively and significantly correlated with performance contracting. The businesses design training agendas in lieu of certifying that employee training requirements are constantly met via counseling, assemblies, and support workers’ exertions in refining their flaws. Efficacy as well as competence of worker’s training amongst employees at Vivo energy investment in Kenya contributes considerably to the employee recital at individual and therefore the organizational performance.
Awareness of Counterfeit Medicine among Saudi University Students
Authors: Alquadeib Bushra T. , ALFaqih Iman M. , Aldosari Basmah N. , Almurshedi Alanood S.
Published: November 2022

Background: Lack of knowledge and awareness of the society is one of the major contributing factors to the prevalence of counterfeit medicines in a country. There is limited information in the developing countries on university student’s facts concerning counterfeit medicines.

Aim: To assess how the university student either in medial or non-medical colleges identify counterfeit and substandard medicines and to evaluate their vulnerability level toward counterfeit drugs.

Methods: Structure electronic questionnaire was distributed in Saudi Arabia, between December 2020 till March 2022. The sample included 1216 respondents selected conveniently from two distinct groups (Student in either medical or non-medical colleges). 1204 participants who were fluent in either English or Arabic were included. The objective of this study is to give better understanding of counterfeiting in drugs and how to fight it.

Results: From one thousand two hundred and sixteen questionnaires were distributed to university student both medical college and non-medical college, only 12 were refused to participate, which indicate higher in response rate. 85% of the answers were female, 36% below 20 and 92% of them were Saudi citizen wit 67% single state. Most of the results of the survey (38 items) were insignificant (p-value>0.05) only 13 (34%) question of the survey relived significant. So, more awareness towards counterfeit medicines, in the level of university student will needed reduce the lack of knowledge.

Conclusion: Although medical school students have higher knowledge about counterfeit drugs, nevertheless, the overall findings suggested low-level of knowledge, exposure to counterfeit were estimate in both medical and non-medical college students in most of the surveyed items.
Pembuatan Mesin CNC dengan Mikrokontroler Arduino Mega untuk Mencetak PCB
Authors: Sebastian Giovanov , Khoswanto Handry , Thiang Thiang
Published: November 2022

Teknologi mesin pada saat ini telah banyak membantu manusia dalam segala aspek kehidupan ini. Pada saat ini mesin CNC sering sekali digunakan untuk membantu manusia dalam pembuatan gambar desain yang membutuhkan ketelitian yang cukup detail. Oleh sebab itu mesin CNC juga dapat diaplikasikan untuk mencetak PCB yang proses pengerjaannya dapat lebih efisien dan dapat mengurangi penggunaan bahan kimia untuk mencetak PCB. Mesin CNC diintegrasikan juga dengan menggunakan software sebagai user interface-nya yang dibuat dengan menggunakan bahasa pemograman Python yang dijalankan menggunakan sebuah laptop. Agar mesin mikrokontroler dan laptop dapat berkomunikasi dan mengirimkan data menggunakan sebuah kabel USB dan menggunakan metod komunikasi serial. Pengujian dilakukan terhadap software user interface, ketepatan gerak dari mesin CNC, RPM spindle motor, dan CNC drill yang digunakan untuk mencetak. Berdasarkan hasil pengujian yang diterima, software dapat mengirimkan file G Code dengan baik. Ketepatan gerak dengan tingkat kesalahan rata-rata sebesar 0.8687%pada sumbu X, sebesar 0.0841% pada sumbu Y, dan 0.07243% pada sumbu Z. Hasil cetak yang terbaik dicapai pada kecepatan spindle motor sebesar 6000 RPM dengan menggunakan CNC drill berbentuk pisau dengan diameter ujung 0.1 mm dan memiliki sudut kemiringan 10°.
Pemanfaatan Aliran Air dari Tandon Air Atas Rumah Tangga sebagai Pembangkit Energi Listrik
Authors: Dannaezar Dannaezar , Tumbelaka Hanny Hosiana , Warpindyasmoro Heri Saptono
Published: November 2022

Air pada tandon air atas memiliki energi yang dapat dimanfaatkan untuk memutar turbin generator. Untuk memanfaatkan aliran air tersebut perlu dipasang generator piko hidro pada pipa di rumah tangga. Cara kerja sistem dimulai pada saat valve dibuka. Ketika aliran air mengalir dan memutar turbin generator maka turbin akan menghasilkan tegangan DC. Tegangan DC tersebut lalu dihubungkan dengan Grid Tie Inverter untuk mengubah tegangan DC menjadi tegangan AC yang dapat langsung diparalel pada jaring-jaring PLN. Untuk memanfaatkan aliran air tersebut maka perlu mengetahui parameter apa saja yang dapat mempengaruhi hasil tegangan generator piko hidro. Pengujian dilakukan dengan menggunakan 2 macam model yaitu model 1 buah generator dan model 2 buah generator. Dari hasil penelitian didapatkan bahwa parameter yang berpengaruh adalah debit air, ukuran pipa dan tekanan air. Untuk mendapatkan tegangan paling maksimal maka generator harus diletakkan sejauh mungkin dari mulut tandon air atas. Pada penggunaan model 2 buah generator, maka hasil penjuumlahan kedua tegangan dari generator sama dengan tegangan yang dihasilkan pada model 1 buah generator.