bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BLS ERC Certified Greek Providers’ Willingness to Perform CPR and Skill Retention During the Covid-19 Pandemic. A Survey of the Hellenic Society of Cardiology (WG CPR)
Authors: Latsios George , Synetos Andreas , Leopoulou Marianna , Stamatopoulou Evaggelia , Koukopoulos Panagiotis , Parisis Charalambos , Karanasos Antonios , Fragkou Paraskevi , Toutouzas Konstantinos , Kanakakis John , Tsioufis Kostas
Published: July 2021

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate a. the level of established knowledge regarding cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) during the Covid-19 pandemic era of certified Basic Life Support (BLS) providers and b. their attitude towards CPR, along with possible misconceptions regarding Covid-19. Methods: Certified BLS providers from courses held in Athens, Greece were asked to complete an electronic survey regarding their knowledge and behavioral changes on performing CPR on victims with confirmed or suspected Covid-19 infection. Their perception on BLS courses was also assessed. Answers were collected during June 2020. Results: Out of 5513 certified providers, 25.53% completed the survey. The majority (83.36%) would provide CPR to an arrest victim with possible or confirmed Covid-19 infection. Regarding the use of an automated external defibrillator, the majority thinks that it is equally safe as in the pre-Covid-19 period (58.24%). Older age (<0.001) and a lower level of education (p<0.001) made rescuers more willing to provide CPR. Exposure to the European Resuscitation Council (ERC) (p<0.001) and to a lesser degree to Greek National Public Health Organization (NPHO) guidelines was also correlated to a less negative attitude towards resuscitation, whereas time since the last BLS seminar had no such impact (p=0.18). All responders agree that training in CPR during Covid-19 remains necessary.Conclusion: Certified BLS providers maintain willingness to perform CPR in unresponsive victims even during the Covid-19 pandemic era. This attitude is reinforced by exposure to the updated CPR guidelines. Knowledge regarding Covid-19 CPR is satisfactory, with more training focused on the revised algorithms considered essential.
Using a laptop computer for work: musculoskeletal disorders and the functional characteristics of the neck in comparison with the users of desktop computers
Authors: Argus Martin , Pääsuke Mati
Published: July 2021

Background

Using a laptop for work is gaining rapid popularity, but there is little evidence of how it influences musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) and functional characteristics of the neck and shoulder area. The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of upper body MSDs and functional characteristics of the neck between office workers using a laptop or desktop computer.
Methods

A total of 110 office workers with a mean age of 41 ± 10 participated. From them 45 office workers (73% female) used a laptop and 65 office workers (86% female) desktop computers. The prevalence of MSDs was recorded using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Active range of motion (AROM), maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) force, joint position error (JPE), and pain-pressure threshold (PPT) of the neck were measured.
Results

Laptop users had statistically significantly more MSDs in the right shoulder area on the day of participation (p < 0.001, OR = 4.47), during the previous 7 days (p < 0.01, OR = 3.74) and 6 months (p < 0.01, OR = 3.57). Laptop users had also significantly more MSDs in the left shoulder during the previous 7 days (p < 0.05, OR = 2.44). Desktop computer users had more MSDs in the low back during the previous 6 months (p < 0.05, OR = 2.24). There were no statistically significant differences in any of the functional characteristics of the neck between the groups.
Conclusions

Using the laptop computer for office work can cause a higher chance of developing MSDs in the neck and shoulder area, but might not have a long-term effect on the functional characteristics of the neck.
Peripheral Muscle Microcirculation Dynamics During Strength Exercise in Heart Failure Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Vale-Lira Amanda , Turri-Silva Natália , Verboven Kenneth , Durigan João Luiz Quagliotti , Chiappa Gaspar R. , Hansen Dominique , Cipriano Gerson
Published: July 2021

This cross-sectional study aimed to compare the muscle microcirculation dynamics via near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) response during an isokinetic muscle strength test and ultrasound-derived parameters in heart failure patients with preserved or reduced ejection fraction phenotypes (HFpEF and HFrEF, respectively) and different functional severities (Weber Class A, B, and C). Twenty-eight aged-matched patients with HFpEF (n = 16) and HFrEF (n = 12) were assessed. Within HFpEF, Weber Class C patients presented a worse capability to reach a greater oxygen extraction during exercise than Classes A and B. Among those with Weber C severity, while HFrEF patients reached lower oxyhemoglobin (O2Hb, µM) (-10.9 ± 3.8 vs. -23.7 ± 5.7, p = 0.029) during exercise, HFpEF kept a lower O2Hb during the recovery period (-3.0 ± 3.4 vs. 5.9 ± 2.8, p = 0.007). Among the ultrasound-derived variables, HFpEF, Weber Class C, also presented a higher echo intensity than HFrEF patients (29.7 ± 8.4 vs. 15.1 ± 6.8, p = 0.017). Our study reveals more pronounced impairments in local microcirculatory dynamics in HFpEF vs. HFrEF patients during muscle strength exercise, combined with muscle-skeletal abnormalities detected via ultrasound imaging, which may help to explain the commonly observed exercise intolerance in HFpEF patients.
Toward an understanding of the chemical ecology of alternative reproductive tactics in the bulb mite (Rhizoglyphus robini)
Authors: Zeeman Adam N. , Smallegange Isabel M. , Steel Emily Burdfield , Groot Astrid T. , Stewart Kathryn A.
Published: July 2021

BackgroundUnder strong sexual selection, certain species evolve distinct intrasexual, alternative reproductive tactics (ARTs). In many cases, ARTs can be viewed as environmentally-cued threshold traits, such that ARTs coexist if their relative fitness alternates over the environmental cue gradient. Surprisingly, the chemical ecology of ARTs has been underexplored in this context. To our knowledge, no prior study has directly quantified pheromone production for ARTs in a male-polymorphic species. Here, we used the bulb mite—in which males are either armed fighters that kill conspecifics, or unarmed scramblers—as a model system to gain insight into the role of pheromones in the evolutionary maintenance of ARTs. Given that scramblers forgo investment into weaponry, we tested whether scramblers produce higher pheromone quantities than fighters, which would improve the fitness of the scrambler phenotype, e.g. through female mimicry to avoid aggression from competitors. To this end, we sampled mites from a rich and a poor nutritional environment and quantified their production of the female sex pheromone α-acaridial through gas chromatography analysis. ResultsWe found a positive relationship between pheromone production and body size, but males exhibited a steeper slope in pheromone production with increasing size than females. Females exhibited a higher average pheromone production than males. We found no significant difference in slope of pheromone production over body size between fighters and scramblers. However, scramblers reached larger body sizes and higher pheromone production than fighters, providing some evidence for a potential female mimic strategy adopted by large scramblers. Pheromone production was significantly higher in mites from the rich nutritional environment than the poor environment. ConclusionFurther elucidation of pheromone functionality in bulb mites, and additional inter- and intrasexual comparisons of pheromone profiles are needed to determine if the observed intersexual and intrasexual differences in pheromone production are adaptive, if they are a by-product of allometric scaling, or diet-mediated pheromone production under weak selection. We argue chemical ecology offers a novel perspective for research on ARTs and other complex life-history traits.
Determinants of Adverse Drug Reactions Due to Tuberculosis Therapy in African Countries: a Systematic Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Irá Tasmiya Raúfo , Tovela Neusa Torres , Varela Elisa López , Laljeeth Pravina Devi , Beharilal Richard , Ojewole Elizabeth Bolanle
Published: July 2021

Background: Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) remain a significant public health concern worldwide mainly in developing countries. Adverse drug reactions due to multi-drugs regimen for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB) have negative implications such as toxicity, leading to poor compliance and interruption of medication before completion. Understanding the profile of ADRs is critical to establishing specific strategies for early detection, prevention and clinical management. The present study aims to map the existing literature on the determinants of adverse drug reactions due tuberculosis therapy in African countries. Methods and analysis: The scoping review will be guided by Arksey and O’Malley framework as well as recommendations by Levac et al., and Colquhoun et al. The search strategy will include searching electronic databases such as Cochrane library, PubMed, EBSCOhost (including Medline), ProQuest, Google scholar; CINAHL with Full Text and other sources such as World Health Organization (WHO) and governmental websites. Peer-reviewed literature and grey literature of primary and secondary studies with different study designs which addresses the main question will be included. Studies published within the period of 2000 to 2020 are eligible. The selection process will involve screening titles, abstracts, full texts. A standardized data charting form will be created in google forms to extract relevant information from the included studies. The NVIVO software version 12 will be used for thematic analysis of the studies to summarize the review findings. The quality of the included studies will be assessed using Mixed Method Appraisal Tool (MMAT) version 2018 and Authority Accuracy Coverage Objectivity Date Significance (AACODS) checklist (for grey literatures).Discussion: The study anticipates finding and mapping relevant research studies in African context on determinants of adverse drug reactions due to tuberculosis therapy. The synthesis of this evidence base will help to identify research gaps and will serve as guidance for future research studies on strengthening of the pharmacovigilance system of ADRs and its clinical management in Africa. The study findings will be disseminated through the traditional academic platforms, such as peer-reviewed publications and presentations at relevant local and international conferences, symposiums, and seminars.Systematic review registration: Prospero Registration Number: CRD42020203617.
Mechanical Investigation of Epoxy Based High-Strength Carbon Fiber Braided Composites Modified with Silane Coupling Agents
Authors: ERYILMAZ OĞUZ , SANCAK Erhan
Published: July 2021

Braiding technique is one of the most cost-effective and versatile methods to manufacture braided preforms for producing textile reinforced composites which have been utilized in a number of applications such as aerospace and automotive sectors. Carbon fiber is one of the most common reinforcing fibers having high strength and modulus used in high-performance composites. In this study, epoxy resin was modified with 3 – aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) and 3 – aminopropylmethyldimethoxysilane (APMDMS) in order to enhance interfacial adhesion between matrix and carbon fiber. Composites were produced by vacuum-assisted resin infusion method (VARIM) using braided carbon fabrics and epoxy resin which was treated with silane at different concentrations (from 0.0% to 1.0%). Braided fabrics were manufactured from a high-strength standard modulus type of carbon fiber and using a radial braiding machine. According to the mechanical results, the ideal (optimum) concentration of APTES and APMDMS for the matrix modification has been around 0.5 wt% of the epoxy system. Also, the mechanical properties of APTES-treated epoxy composites are slightly higher than those of APMDMS-treated epoxy composites at the same concentration. When it is compared to silane untreated composite, 0.5 wt% of APTES/APMDMS silane treated epoxy/carbon braided composites have led to an increase of 7.71/6.16 and 7.65/6.05 % in tensile and flexural strength while the corresponding increase has resulted in 17.48/13.51 and 16.63/13.33 % in terms of tensile and flexural modulus, respectively. Impact testing results indicate that 0.5 wt% of APTES and APMDMS composites are improved 6.87 and 4.31 % compared to untreated composites, respectively.
Optimization of the separation paraments in inclined channels of liquid-solid fluidized bed
Authors: zhao yanfeng , Li Yanfeng , Chen Peng , Ma Mengqi
Published: July 2021

A new theoretical formula can be used to calculate superficial velocity for particle separation with a critical condition, and it is based on the size, density, terminal velocity, Reynold number of the particle and equipment parameters. In a continuous system, a series of fractionation experiments were conducted to quantify the separation performance for 0–2 mm coal particles under various factors, including channel spacing, solids throughput and split fluidization rate. The separation performance considers the ash content and yield of products varying with the particle size. A great fluidization environment can be created by the 6 mm channel spacing. For the solids throughput of 10.20 t/(m2h) provides a well effective separation in the narrow channels. In addition, the split fluidization of 0.0058 m/s can produce a higher shear induce force in the inclined channels to prevent the low-density particles from being lost in the underflow. The theoretical superficial velocity calculated by the new formula is 0.042 m/s, which can report the particles with the upper and lower size reach at 9-fold to the overflow, it is almost the same as the actual separation fluidization velocity of 0.04 m/s. Meanwhile, the data obtained under each separation condition is basically consistent with data of the sink-float mothed, which shows a good separation performance for the Reflux Classifier.
Dry beneficiation of +0.5mm-5.6mm South African coal using an air dense medium fluidization bed
Authors: Diedericks Elmarie Sunette , Roux Marco Le , Campbell Quentin Peter
Published: July 2021

The separation performance of solid phase bed material, at various particle size ranges, in an air dense medium fluidized bed (ADMFB), were evaluated during this study. The coal particles were separated into +0.5mm-1mm, +1mm-2mm, +2mm-2.8mm, +2.8mm-4mm, +4mm-4.75mm and +4.75mm-5.6mm particle size ranges and fed to the fluidized bed in these fractions. Along with the six coal particle size ranges, three dense media to coal ratios and the addition of vibration was tested to identify the best operating conditions. Adequate results were obtained for larger particle size ranges down to and including +2.0mm-2.8mm coal particles, after which the separation performance decreased significantly. Density stratification was irregular and not obvious for coal particles below 2.0mm and maintaining a consistent fluidization state also proved to be challenging, especially when dense medium was added. The coal particles separated vertically along the bed height because of differences in particle and bed density, while particle size proved to have a notable influence on the degree of separation. An air fluidization velocity of between 1.1 to 1.4Umf was shown as the best performing velocity, which yielded the maximum ash differential between the top and bottom layers of the bed for all the particle size ranges tested. For +2.0mm-5.6mm coal particles, low cumulative ash yields were obtained at high mass yields, however the ash yields increased for -2mm coal. Vibration and dense medium have, in some cases, enhanced the separation efficiency of the ADMFB. The -2.0mm particles experienced stronger particle-particle interactions as well as elevated levels of bubbling and back mixing than that of the +2.0mm particles, which explains the poor performance of the small particle sizes.
The New Microwave Ablation Catheter for Varicose Veins: An in Ex Vivo Pilot Study
Authors: Li Younan , Wu Weiwei , Liu Xiaozheng , Pang Maoying , Wang Guangyu , Li Jing , Ma Rong
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To improve the current microwave ablation catheter from causing injury by the over-temperature of catheter during the therapy. A new microwave ablation catheter with water-cooling circulation system and temperature-monitoring system was designed. Its effectiveness was verified in an ex vivo study. Materials and Methods: According to the theory that the heat can be transferred by convection between different mediums to balance the temperature. Designing water-cooling circulation system and temperature-monitoring system based on the microwave ablation catheter. Comparing the temperature of the catheters with or without water-cooling circulation system and comparing the range of ablation tissues by testing on the pork to verify its effectiveness. Results: The temperature of the MWAC without water-cooling circulation system would increase as using times increased. It would be over 45℃ after using the instrument for 3 times continuously, and the range of ablation tissues extends with injury. The temperature of the microwave ablation catheter with water-cooling circulation system would not be over 45℃ after using it for 50 times continuously, and it would not cause injury. Conclusion: The new microwave ablation catheter with water-cooling circulation system and temperature-monitoring system can constantly monitor the temperature and lower the temperature while using the instrument to prevent the patients’ native issue and medical staffs from burning, it can control the ablation range more efficiently and safer.
Does migrant workers develop higher health risk behaviors from less social support and higher work stress than their college in originate country? - Relationship between work stress, social support and health risk behaviors among Thai workers in Thailand and Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Feng-Jen , Lin Chia-Ping , Tipayamongkholgul Mathuros
Published: July 2021

Background

The study aims at comparing social support, work stress and health risk behaviors (HRBs) between Thai workers in Thailand and Taiwan, and to determine the associations between factors among migrant workers.
Methods

Cross-sectional study was conducted by self-reported survey among Thai workers in Thailand and Taiwan in manufacturing industry between October 2019 and October 2020. Interpersonal Support Evaluation List-12, Job Content Questionnaire and questions regarding smoking and drinking behaviors were used to collect workers’ ISS, work stress and HRBs. There were 223 participants in Thailand and 86 participants in Taiwan included in final analysis. Chi-square test, t-test and logistic regression were applied for analysis.
Results

Thai migrant workers in Taiwan had significantly lower social support and higher psychological stress in work than workers in Thailand. However, workers in Thailand had higher percentage of smokers while there were more drinkers with high drinking frequency among migrant workers in Taiwan. Participants’ educational level and working country were the significant factors predicting their smoking and drinking behaviors while the association among ISS, work stress and HRBs were not found. Workers with lower educational level had significantly higher risk of being smokers. In addition, migrant workers in Taiwan had significantly higher likelihood of having risky drinking behaviors than their colleges in Thailand (OR = 2.02 and 2.21).
Conclusions

Though migrant workers had poor social support and high stress at work compared with their college in originate country, these factors did not lead them directly to develop smoking and drinking behaviors.
Flaxseed-Derived Peptide, IPPF, Inhibits Intestinal Cholesterol Absorption and Hepatic Cholesterol Synthesis in Caco-2 and HepG2 Cells
Authors: Bao Xiaolan , xingyu yuan , Li Xuexin , Liu Xiaojing
Published: July 2021

Background：Flaxseed peptide (FPs) showed serum cholesterol-lowering activity in SD rats fed a high-cholesterol diet, but the cholesterol-lowering amino acid sequences and mechanism of FPs were still unclear. Methods: FPs were separated via ultrafiltration, and the amino acid sequences of the selected fractions were determined via high-performance liquid chromatography- Electrospray Ionisation - Orbitrap- Mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-Orbitrap MS). These peptides then were synthesized by solid-phase synthesis (SPPS). IPPF with the highest CMSR was determined to exist in flaxseed protein by specific antibodies. The effects of IPPF on intestinal cholesterol absorption and hepatic cholesterol metabolism were investigated in Caco-2 cells and HepG2 cells.Results：1 kDa FP5 fraction had the highest cholesterol micelle solubility inhibition rate (CMSR) 72.39% compared with the other ultrafiltration fractions. Then Eleven peptides were identified from FP5. Ile-Pro-Pro-Phe (IPPF), with the highest CMSR 93.47%, was selected to research the cholesterol-lowering mechanism in Caco-2 and HepG2 cells. IPPF significantly reduces the amount of cholesterol transported in Caco2 cells and the amount of total cholesterol in HepG2 cells. IPPF significantly modulated the protein levels of NCP1L1 and ABCG5/8 in Caco2 cells and significantly reduced the mRNA levels of Srebp-2 and Hmgcr in HepG2 cells. Conclusion: IPPF inhibits cholesterol intestinal absorption through modulating the expression of cholesterol transporters in Caco-2 cells and reduces hepatic cholesterol synthesis through inhibiting the SREBP2-regulated mevalonate (HMGCR) pathway in HepG2 cells. IPPF is a new food-derived inhibitor of intestinal cholesterol absorption and hepatic cholesterol synthesis without side effects and provides a nutritional therapy component for hypercholesterolemia.
Reliability and Validity of The Novel Self-Reported Spine Functional Scale (SSFS) in Healthy Participants
Authors: Li Wei , Ding Jie , Hao Xiujuan , Jiang Wenjun , Song Hongqiang , Zhang Yanming , Tan Yan
Published: July 2021

Objectives: to develop the novel self-reported spine functional scale (SSFS) and conduct reliability and validity analysis, so that the public can better understand their own spine function in a more simple and scientific way, so as to effectively prevent spinal disorders and improve the quality of life through targeted rehabilitation therapeutic measures.Methods:This study was approved by an institutional review board, and all subjects gave informed consent to participate. Results: (1) Using Spearman correlation analysis to evaluate the content validity, each item was significantly correlated with the total score, and the project design was reasonable. The exploratory factor analysis method is used to evaluate the structural validity of the scale, and the standing position and the lying position of the posture evaluation can be attributed to the factor 2, which is called posture evaluation; the cervical flexor strength, the flat support, the prone back, the supine knee, The back arch of the wall and the angel on the wall attributed to factor 1, called the overall spine function test, and the cumulative contribution rate of the two factors was 46.057%. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the two-factor model fits well (c2/df=2.440, RMSEA=0.04<0.05, GFI=0.945, AGFI=0.920, CFI=0.967, IFI=0.967, TLI=0.951, GFI, AGFI, CFI , IFI, TLI are >0.90) and the validity is ideal. (2) The test-retest reliability shows that the test-retest reliability of each entry, each dimension and the total score is greater than 0.5, and the test-retest reliability is high. The Cronbach α coefficient was used to evaluate the overall internal consistency of the scale, α>0.70, indicating that the scale has high reliability. After deleting each item one by one, the α coefficient is 0.692-0.717, and there is no significant increase. (3) Sex and occupation did not affect the level of spinal function (P>0.05), and there was interaction. Different BMI levels significantly affected the score of spinal function (P<0.05). The rate of spinal dysfunction in overweight and obese subjects. Significantly higher than the normal group, the overall score of spinal function was worse than the normal group. Conclusion: This scale has good reliability and validity and is suitable for self-assessment of spine function in young people. And overweight and obesity can affect the level of spinal function in young people.
Optimization of Enhanced TIG Welding Process Using Artificial Neural Network and Heuristic Algorithms
Authors: Moghaddam Masoud Azadi , Kolahan Farhad
Published: July 2021

Using conventional gas tungsten arc welding (C-GTAW) process includes some demerits, shallow penetration has been considered as the most important ones. Recently, in order to cope with the mentioned disadvantage (low penetration), using a paste like coating of activating flux during welding process known as activated GTAW (AGTAW) has been proposed. In this paper, effect of A-GTAW process input adjusting parameters including welding speed (S), welding current (C) and percentage of activating fluxes (TiO2 and SiO2) combination (F) on weld bead width (WBW), depth of penetration (DOP), and consequently aspect ratio (ASR) (the most important quality characteristics) in welding of AISI316L parts have been studied. Box-behnken design (BBD) of experiments has been used to prepare the required experimental matrix for modeling and optimization objectives. Back propagation neural network (BPNN), architecture (hidden layers number and their corresponding neurons/nodes) of which has been determined using heuristic algorithm employed to model the process outputs, the most fitted ones have been optimized using simulated annealing (SA), and particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithms in order to obtain the desired aspect ratio, maximum depth of penetration, and minimum weld bead width. Finally, confirmation experimental tests have been carried out to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. Due to the obtained results, the suggested method for modeling and optimization of A-GTAW process is quite efficient (with less than 4% error).
Six-month exclusive breastfeeding and the impact of COVID-19 on breastfeeding practice in Hong Kong: A mixed-methods study
Authors: Kwan John , Jia Jimsyn , Yip Ka-man , So Hung-kwan , Leung Sophie SF , Ip Patrick , Wong Wilfred HS
Published: July 2021

Background

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for an infant’s first six months. Therefore, various policies were implemented to support breastfeeding in Hong Kong in the past decade. Meanwhile, the COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges and opportunities to breastfeeding practices. This study aimed to identify the associated factors of six-month EBF, and to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on breastfeeding practice.
Methods

This study was conducted using a mixed-methods approach. An electronic questionnaire was distributed to members of breastfeeding or parenting groups who have had breastfeeding experience in the past 10 years. Exploratory factor analysis with principal components analysis was used to identify the factors representing breastfeeding support from family and friends. Stepwise binary logistic regression analyses with forward (conditional) selection were conducted to examine factors associated with six-month EBF both in general and during the pandemic period. A thematic analysis was conducted using both deductive and inductive approaches.
Results

The study included 793 participants. Giving birth in a public hospital (AOR 2.015, 95% CI 1.440 to 2.821, p < 0.001) and breastfeeding support from family and friends (AOR 1.309, 95% CI 1.102 to 1.555, p = 0.002) were significantly associated with six-month EBF even during COVID-19. Our qualitative results indicated a high prevalence of breastfeeding problems in both public and private maternity wards, suggesting that neonatal support for breastfeeding in Hong Kong were generally insufficient and ineffective.
Conclusions

Giving birth in a public hospital and having breastfeeding support from family and friends were associated with six-month EBF. Furthermore, COVID-19 in Hong Kong had an overall positive impact on six-month EBF. Further studies should investigate the impact of hospital practice and the COVID-19 pandemic on breastfeeding behaviours.
Characterization and antibacterial property of epsilon-poly-L-lysine grafted cellulose films
Authors: Zhang Jiahui , Li Weilong , Ma Qin , Zhang Xiaowan , Nie Chunling , Li Changcheng , Bai Xiaofang , Fan Guangsen , Shen Ting , Hu Weicheng , Tian Huafeng , Luo Xiaogang , Wang JianGuo
Published: July 2021

In order to obtain a stable, biodegradable and cost-effective antibacterial food package materials, this study developed a facile route to immobilize epsilon-poly-L-lysine (EPL) on films. Cellulose films were prepared via a sol-gel transition method and activated by epoxy chloropropane (ECH) to form epoxide group. EPL was covalently immobilized on the surface of the cellulose films (ECFs) by reacting the amino groups of the EPL molecules with the epoxy groups of the epoxidized cellulose films. The structure, morphology and properties of films were characterized by scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, universal material testing machine, ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer and static water contact angle. The results showed that EPL was immobilized successfully in the cellulose films. ECFs exhibited 80% transmittance through 300 nm to 1100 nm and the excellent thermal degradation temperature of 240°C. Moreover, good antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative Escherichia coli, Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris were confirmed within 12 h, which is expected to provide a novel material for potential applications in the food industry.
Gibberellic Acids Promotes Growth and Exopolysaccharides Production in Tetraselmis Suecica Under Reciprocal Nitrogen Concentration: An Assessment on Antioxidant Properties and Nutrients Removal Efficacy of Immobilized Iron-magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: A Prathipa , G Manigandan , S Dinesh Kumar , Perumal Santhanam , P Perumal , N Krishnaveni , K Nanthini Devi , S Vijayalakshmi
Published: July 2021

The present study was aimed to assess the effect of gibberellic acids to enhance the growth, biomass, pigment, and exopolysaccharides production in Tetraselmis suecica under reciprocal nitrogen concentrations. For this study, the seven types of experimental media (N-P, NL-P/2GA3, N0-P/2GA3, NL-P/4GA3, N0-P/4GA3, NL-P/6GA3, N0-P/6GA3) were prepared include the addition of gibberellic acids under various nitrogen concentrations. The experiment was lasted for 15 days and the cell density, biomass, chlorophyll ‘a’, and exopolysaccharides (EPS) concentration of T. suecica were estimated for every three days. Then the EPS was subjected to the analyses of chemical (carbohydrate, protein, sulfate, and uronic acid), and antioxidant activity. In addition nutrient removal efficiency was evaluated by using different concentration of EPS. The highest DPPH (86.7±0.95 %) and hydroxyl radical activity (85.7±2.48 %) were observed in 2.5 and 1.2 mg/mL of EPS concentration. The immobilized magnetic Fe3O4-EPS nanoparticles (5.0 and 10.0 g/L) have efficiently removed the excessive phosphate (89.5±1.65 %) and nitrate (73.5±1.72 %) from the Litopenaeus vannamei cultured wastewater. Thus, applying gibberellic acids combined with limited nitrogen concentration could produce higher EPS that could exhibit excellent antioxidant activity, and nutrient removal efficacy in the form of Fe3O4-EPS magnetic nanoparticles.
Velocity Effect Sensitivity Analysis of Ball-end Milling Ti-6Al-4V
Authors: Zhang Anshan , Liu Xianli , Yue Caixu , Li Rongyi , Liang Steven Y. , Wang Lihui
Published: July 2021

Ball-end cutters are widely used in industries of dies, molds, and aerospace, which have the problem of poor machined surface quality due to the low cutting speed near the tool-tip. With the increase in the complexity of parts, it will become more and more difficult to avoid the tool-tip participating in the cutting. In this paper, the velocity effect sensitivity of ball-end cutter is analyzed, and several key positions, including the intersection points of the CWE boundaries, are selected to describe the cutting speed in three dimensions. The relationships between the cutting speed of the critical points and important variables such as: machining inclination angle and the feed direction were investigated. The optimal range of feed direction is obtained when the tool-tip engages in the contact circle. The core aim of the feed direction selection is to make the tool engagement area in a high position by changing the feed direction, to avoid surface damage caused by ploughing and improve the quality of the machined surface. Finally, an experimental study was carried out, and the results corroborate the effectiveness of the selection method. In the experiment, it was also found that cutting-out from the cutter contact position can improve the surface quality in the directions of non-optimal range, and the milling force and chips shape will vary with the change of the feed direction.
Design thinking teams and team processes: Creativity through discipline
Authors: Heldal Frode
Published: July 2021

Design thinking is hailed as a cornerstone for innovation. It has teamwork as a basis, yet we know little of how the design thinking team operates and collaborates. In this study, we investigate both quantitatively and qualitatively 51 design thinking teams as they work on an innovation project. We seek especially how they communicate and collaborate while working with design thinking tools. Teams are divided in three according to performance. Findings suggest that the highest performing groups utilize the design thinking method more disciplined than the other groups. To achieve this, they employ more authority behaviors and less supportive behaviors than the other groups. This disciplined approach to the method as a process and employed tools (such as brainstorming) in turn enable important team processes such as team reflexivity and psychological safety. Based on these findings, we suggest that a disciplined approach at the team level towards design thinking enhance innovative performance.
Longitudinal assessment of reactivity and affinity profile of anti-Jo1 autoantibodies to distinct HisRS domains and a splice variant in a cohort of patients with myositis and anti-synthetase syndrome
Authors: Notarnicola Antonella , Preger Charlotta , Lundström Susanna L. , Renard Nuria , Wigren Edvard , Gompel Eveline Van , Galindo-Feria Angeles S. , Persson Helena , Fathi Maryam , Grunewald Johan , Jakobsson Per-Johan , Gräslund Susanne , Lundberg Ingrid E , Fernandes-Cerqueira Cátia
Published: July 2021

Background: To address the reactivity and affinity against histidyl-transfer RNA synthetase (HisRS) autoantigen of anti-Jo1 autoantibodies from serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies/anti-synthetase syndrome (IIM/ASS). To investigate the associations between the reactivity profile and clinical data over time.Methods: Samples and clinical data were obtained from: i) 25 anti-Jo1+ patients (19 sera with 16 longitudinal samples and 6 BALF/matching sera at diagnosis; ii) 29 anti-Jo1- patients (25 sera and 4 BALF/matching sera at diagnosis); iii) 27 age/gender-matched healthy controls (24 sera and 3 BALF/matching sera). Reactivity towards HisRS full-length (HisRS-FL), three HisRS domains (WHEP, antigen binding domain (ABD), and catalytic domain (CD)) and the HisRS splice variant (SV) was tested. Anti-Jo1 IgG reactivity was evaluated by ELISA and western blot using IgG purified from serum by affinity chromatography. In paired serum-BALF, anti-Jo1 IgG and IgA reactivity was analyzed by ELISA. Autoantibody affinity was measured by surface plasmon resonance using IgG purified from sera. Correlations between autoantibody reactivity and clinical data were evaluated at diagnosis and longitudinally. Results: Anti-Jo1 IgG from serum and BALF bound HisRS-FL, WHEP, and SV with high reactivity at the time of diagnosis and recognized both conformation-dependent and -independent HisRS epitopes. Anti-HisRS-FL IgG displayed high affinity early in the disease. At the time of IIM/ASS diagnosis, the highest autoantibody levels against HisRS-FL were found in patients ever developing interstitial lung disease (ILD) and arthritis, but with less skin involvement. Moreover, the reactivity of anti-WHEP IgG in BALF correlated with poor pulmonary function. Levels of autoantibodies against HisRS-FL, -domains and -splice variant generally decreased over time. With some exceptions, longitudinal anti-HisRS-FL antibody levels changed in line with ILD activity.Conclusion: High levels and high-affinity anti-Jo1 autoantibodies towards HisRS-FL were found early in disease in sera and BALF. In combination with the correlation of anti-HisRS-FL antibody levels with ILD and ILD activity in longitudinal samples as well as of anti-WHEP IgG in BALF with poor pulmonary function, this supports the hypothesis that the lung may have a role in the immune reaction in anti-Jo1 positive patients.
Micro Vapor Cells Sealed by Two-step Bonding for Miniature Atomic Clocks
Authors: Nishino Hitoshi , Furuya Yasubumi , Ono Takahito
Published: July 2021

This paper reports the proposal, fabrication, and evaluation of Rb vapor cells sealed by two-step bonding for miniature atomic clocks. The proposed fabrication method is separating the light path filled with Alkali atoms and Alkali dispenser’s room at wafer level process. The first fabricated sample is unexpectedly sealed with some air, and the vapor cell is measured the absorption spectra and CPT resonance. The flow solving the problems is indicated, and the vapor cells are fabricated again with the improved process. The FWHM of CPT resonance fits almost the theoretical value in vacuum-sealed samples, which are filled with Rb atoms carried from one dispenser. These results show that fabricated vapor cells are filled with Rb without degassing or leaks, and the reliability of the fabrication process and the production efficiency can be expected. Rb vapor cell sealed in the controlled pressure with buffer gases N2/Ar is also fabricated and evaluated. The spectrum line is broadened, and CPT resonance peak is narrowed 4.0 kHz at 90 °C. These results show the proposal fabrication method of the alkali vapor cells is useful for miniature atomic clocks.
Understanding Adsorption Geometry of Organometallic Molecules on Graphene
Authors: Oh Seungtaek , Seo Jungyoon , Choi Giheon , Lee Hwa Sung
Published: July 2021

To comprehensively investigate the adsorption geometries and behaviors of organometallic molecules on graphene, Cp*Ru+ fragments as an organometallic molecule is bound on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite and imaged at atomic resolution using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) (Cp* = pentamethylcyclopentadienyl). Atomic resolution imaging through STM shows that the Cp*Ru+ fragments are localized above the hollow position of the hexagonal structure, and that the graphene surface adsorbed with the fragments redeveloped morphologically to minimize its geometric energy. For a better understanding of the adsorption site and molecular geometry, experimental results are compared with computed calculations for the graphene surface with Cp*Ru+ fragments. These calculations show the adsorption geometries of the fragment on the graphene surface and the relationship between the geometric energy and molecular configuration. Our results provide the chemical anchoring geometry of molecules on the graphene surface, thereby imparting the theoretical background necessary for controlling the electrical/physical properties of graphene in the future.
Insinuate Orbital Cellulitis Associated With Diesel Explosion-Induced Injury
Authors: Chen Yao , Wang Jinwei , Chen Lu , Wang Sha , Tan Jia
Published: July 2021

Background: Diesel-related orbital cellulitis is uncommon, it has an insinuate appearance whereas develops aggressively, leading to severe vision loss or poor reconstruction. Here we present a case of diesel explosion-associated eyelid trauma with toxic orbital cellulitis, who at last obtained relatively sound vision and appearance after several rounds of surgeries, which is rarely seen for the trauma itself. Case presentation: A 33-year-old male was injured in the right eye by diesel engine explosion. He was initially treated for right eye eyelid laceration however the trauma developed into toxic orbital cellulitis on the next day. Orbital debridement and removing of the orbital residual diesel fluid was performed on him immediately. However, on the second day necrosis developed in the eyelid and sub-dermal tissue. Therefore he received another orbital debridement to remove the necrotized tissue and awaited the subsequent right eyelid skin grafting surgery. The patient finally got his right eye vision saved as well as maintaining a relatively sound structure of the eyelid.Conclusion: Timely debridement and removing the residual diesel in the orbit is necessary for the recovery of patient with diesel-related toxic orbital cellulitis.
Randomized Control Trial of Short Infusion of Low Dose Ketamine Vs Intravenous Morphine as Adjunct Analgesia for Acute Long Bone Fracture Pain in Emergency Department
Authors: Eddie Elisa Audrey , Zahedi Ahmad Zulkarnian Ahmad , JAMALUDDIN SABARIAH FAIZAH
Published: July 2021

BackgroundKetamine is known as an alternative for pain control, but reports of emergency reactions limits its widespread use. We assessed the efficacy of short infusion of low dose ketamine (LDK) compared with intravenous morphine (MOR) as adjunct analgesia for acute long bone fracture pain.MethodsPatients aged 18-60 years old, with acute long bone fracture and with numerical pain rating scale (NPRS) of 6 or more after 3mg intravenous morphine were eligible for enrolment. Subjects were consented and randomized to either short infusion LDK (0.3mg/kg) over 15 minutes or intravenous morphine (MOR) (0.1mg/kg) over 5 minutes. Evaluations of NPRS score and vital signs occurred at 15, 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes. The primary outcome from this study was the mean reduction of numerical pain rating scale (NPRS) score from baseline and the mean time to achieve ³ 3 score reductions in NPRS. The secondary outcomes were the incidence of adverse events and mean consumption of rescue analgesia.ResultsFifty-eight subjects were enrolled (MOR 27, LDK 31). Demographic variables and baseline NPRS scores MOR (8.33) vs LDK (8.84) were similar. The mean reduction of NPRS were significantly different between LDK (Mean= 3.1, SD=2.03) and MOR (Mean =1.8, SD 1.59), p= 0.009 at 30 minutes. Incidence of dizziness was reported higher in Ketamine group 19.4% (p=0.026).ConclusionWhen used as an adjunct, short infusion low-dose ketamine at 0.3mg/kg over 15minutes provides greater analgesic effect in comparison to intravenous morphine alone for acute long bone fracture pain but has higher incidence of dizziness.Trial RegistrationNational Medical Research Register: https://www.nmrr.gov.my/ Registered 24 November 2017 ID:NMRR-17-3184-38970
Industrial policies and government–business relations in Southeast Asia : the Case of the Philippines
Authors:   , Rodmann Nina
Published: July 2021

In contrast to Japan and the “dragon economies,” the Philippines has not been able to partake in the “Asian Economic Miracle.” In short, the Philippines does not classify as a developmental state which exercises strategic industrial policies as traced in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Singapore. In fact, even its Southeast Asian neighbors Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia had economically outdone the Philippines by the 1980s even though their prospects were much worse than those of the Philippines in the 1950s. And while the Philippine economy has been experiencing an upsurge in recent years, it is still significantly lagging behind regional standards—especially with regard to industrial development. From a political economy perspective, it is of key interest in how far the Philippine state has been contributing to this subpar development. In order to explore the ongoing Philippine development dilemma, the study thus offers a comprehensive analysis of the Philippines’ industrial policies, based on distinct government–business relations and patterns of social embeddedness. In addition to assessing the Philippines’ industrial policies and their embeddedness in general, two of the Philippines’ main export industry sectors—textile/garments and electronics—are examined. In this manner, the study contributes to the analysis of the political economy of economic development in the Philippines and provides insights on the prospects and limits of industrial policy in the Southeast Asian context.
The Impact of Government Policies on the Growth and Development of SMEs interprises in Bauchi State Nigeria
Authors: Yahaya Yakubu , Dutse Umar Ayuba , Bello Sule
Published: July 2021

Every business or start-up was e-ray by the government official ranging from local, state and federal level in Nigeria. Therefore, for SMEs to operate it’s a perquisite to follow the due process from registration by ministry of commerce and industry at state level and the various agencies responsible for registration. This challenge represents both widespread personal misfortune for individuals and a lost opportunity for critical national and global economic development. This study examines the challenges that affect the growth and development of small and medium enterprises in Bauchi state, Nigeria .The study was guided by an epistemological research philosophy adopting a positivist research paradigm. The research design was cross-sectional survey design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The target population for this study was 754 registered small and medium scale owned enterprises registered with the Bauchi state government by December 2019 and the sample size was 172 respondents derived using Fisher’s formulae. This study used a self-administered, closed, and open-ended questionnaire to obtain quantitative data. The study used descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, median and proportions using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24 and Microsoft Excel. Regression analysis and correlation analysis were used to determine the direction and strength of the relationship between the independent and the dependent variables.. The questionnaires were administered among the seventy (70) management staff members of the one hundred and seventy two (172) selected SMEs in Bauchi state Nigeria through purposive sampling method, and this was done personally by the researcher. Descriptive and inferential statistics was use to analyze and interpret the data use in this research. The study reveals that government policies is a major challenges that help SMEs to grow and achieve its stated objectives in global competitive environment. On same vain this study is so keen and motivated to established evidence on these challenges ascertain especially, in a context of current phenomena SMEs face in Bauchi state. Finally, the study will utilize the element of contingency theory, as these SMEs require sound institutional framework to mitigate these challenges. However, anecdotal evidence shows that SMEs in developing countries like Nigeria are faced with a lot of challenges that have hampered their growth in recent times. Among these challenges are: intermittent power supply, indiscriminate tax levies government policy, low accessibility to loans from financial institutions and inability to keep proper financial records. The study reveals that Government policies have a significant impact on the growth and development of SMEs in Bauchi State, Nigeria. Subsequently, the study recommends that management of SMEs should adopt good strategy in order to overcome these challenges.