bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fixed point equations for superlinear operators with strong upper or strong lower solutions and applications
Authors: Xu Shaoyuan , Han Yan , Zheng Qiongyue
Published: February 2023

It is well known that sublinear operators and superlinear operators are two classes of important nonlinear operators in nonlinear analysis and dynamical systems. Since sublinear operators have only weak nonlinearity, this advantage makes it easy to deal with them. However, superlinear operators have strong nonlinearity, and there are only a few results about them. In this paper, the convergence of Picard iteration for the superlinear operator $ A $ is obtained based on the conditions that the fixed point equation $ Ax = x $ has a strong upper solution and a lower solution (or alternatively, an upper solution and a strong lower solution). Besides, the uniqueness of the fixed point of strongly increasing operators as well as the global attractivity of strongly monotone dynamical systems are also discussed. In addition, the main results are applied to monotone dynamics of superlinear operators and nonlinear integral equations. The method used in our work develops the traditional method of upper and lower solutions. Since a strong upper (upper) solution and a lower (strong lower) solution are easily checked, the obtained results are effective and practicable in the study of nonlinear equations and dynamical systems. The main novelty is that this paper provides new fixed point results for increasing superlinear operators and the obtained results are applied to strongly monotone systems to investigate their global attractivity.
Some conditions for sequences to be minimal completely monotonic
Authors: Wang Xifeng , Guo Senlin
Published: February 2023

In this article, we establish some necessary conditions for sequences to be minimal completely monotonic. We also present some properties for completely monotonic sequences.
The effects of different modes of foreign bank entry in the Turkish banking sector during the 2007–2009 Global financial crisis
Authors: Polovina Nereida , Peasnell Ken
Published: February 2023

This paper provides insights on how foreign bank entry modes (acquisition vs. greenfield investment) in an emerging market (Turkey) influenced bank strategies during the 2007–2009 global financial crisis. Using a comprehensive dataset comprising twenty-nine accounting variables from Turkish banks' financial statements during 2005–2010, we find important differences between foreign-acquired banks and foreign bank branches in lending and sourcing funds. We find that foreign bank branches continued to support international trade by issuing import loans during 2007–2009 global financial crisis, whereas foreign-acquired banks focused on issuing consumer and credit card loans. In terms of bank sourcing funds, we find that foreign-acquired banks were able to continue to use foreign currency deposits of Turkish residents and local interbank funding including participation (Islamic) banks. Foreign bank branches, on the other hand, relied on sourcing funds from international interbank funding and foreign currency deposits of residents abroad, which led to the necessity for them to change their strategies because of funding shortage in international markets. Our results show that the presence of foreign banks in Turkish banking sector enabled the continuity of bank lending activities in host market during the turmoil of 2007–2009 global financial crisis. Our findings on foreign bank entry mode provide new evidence and have important implications for both policy makers and practitioners in emerging markets.
Top-End Wealth Accumulation: The Forbes Lists and Wealth Inequality
Authors: Remington Thomas F.
Published: February 2023

The annual Forbes magazine’s lists of the wealthiest individuals in the world are a widely used source of data about the dynamics of wealth concentration. They complement the estimates of global and national wealth concentration published annually by Credit Suisse Bank and the World Inequality Database. Both sources enable analysis of the dynamics of wealth accumulation. This paper seeks to assess the degree to which political–institutional forces as opposed to market forces shape the process of wealth accumulation. The paper finds that the growth rate of the total wealth of the top 400 individuals between 2000 and 2020 was much higher than for their countries as a whole. Moreover, wealth at the very top has become significantly more concentrated. The processes generating accumulation of wealth nationally foster higher rates of wealth accumulation for the wealthiest. The paper proposes political and institutional explanations based on opportunities for rent-extraction by the wealthiest. Rising market power on the part of some firms and sectors enables profitability to become decoupled from productivity and enables individual-level wealth to accumulate at a rate proportional to the level of wealth.
Health Inequalities in Italy: Comparing Prevention, Community Health Services, and Hospital Assistance in Different Regions
Authors: Betti Marco , De Tommaso Celestina Valeria , Maino Franca
Published: February 2023

Regions are likely to face health care and aging problems (as well as other socioeconomic challenges) by adopting different measures and strategies that may lead to further differentiation in health care provision in the long run. In the short term, the essential levels of assistance/care (livelli essenziali di assistenza [LEA]) assessment grid shows how regional performance in three areas of the health care sector (prevention, community health services, and hospital assistance) proceed at different speeds. Contrary to expectations, the north-south divide is not the only territorial divide that exists. Strong differences exist even among regions in the north-east, north-west, and center of Italy. The results depict a four-speed ranking in LEA performance.
Book Review
Authors: Abrahamson Peter
Published: February 2023

Review of the following work: Christian Aspalter. (2023). Ten Worlds of Welfare Capitalism: A Global Data Analysis. Singapore: Springer, 236 p. ISBN: 13-978-9811978623 (HB).
Uretero-pelvic junction obstruction in children: Is vascular hitch an effective and safe solutions in very long term outcome? Report of 25 years follow-up
Authors: Chiarenza Salvatore Fabio , Carretto Elena , Bucci Valeria , Ave Samuele , Pulin Giuseppe , Bleve Cosimo
Published: February 2023

Vascular (VH) according to Hellstrom-Chapman technique is considered a safe and effective alternative approach to pure extrinsic Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction (UPJO) with good results in short and medium term, but few data are available on long and verylong term outcomes. Our aim is to evaluate VH long and very-long term outcomes in patients treated in pediatric age focusing on relapse, development of hypertension and/or inferior polar kidney hypotrophy during puberty and adulthood. From 1990 to 2015 in our Department 76 children were treated by open or laparoscopic VH for pure extrinsic-UPJO. We were able to contact 54 of 76. 41 patients (25 males, 16 females) accepted to be studied. Mean follow- up time was 12.7 years (range 6-27 years); mean age at the assessment was 22.2 years. We excluded patients who were younger than 13 (if females) or 14 (if males) at the assessment (upper limits of physiological puberty onset). Patients were followed with US, MAG-3-scan and arterial blood pressure measurement. Collected data were compared with the preoperative ones by Student t-test. 95% of US images and MAG-3-scan reports were compatible with complete resolution of obstruction with good renal functionality. 87% of patients were completely healthy. We recorded 3 cases of hypertension (7%) not secondary to renovascular origin; 2 cases with recurrent flank pain (5%) with slightly dilated pelvis at the US and sub-obstructive pattern at MAG-3-scan with preserved renal function. Our experience confirms that VH, (open/laparoscopic) is a safe and effective procedure with good outcomes at very longterm follow-up. No patients at puberty and in adulthood required reoperation or presented polar hypotrophy and related vascular hypertension. VH is an alternative approach to pure extrinsic-UPJO. There were few data about long and very-long term outcomes in patients after this kind of surgery. We followed-up 41 patients confirming that VH (open/laparoscopic) is safe and effective with good long-term outcomes.
Experiences of acquired brain injury one-month post-discharge from acute hospitalisation
Authors: Talbot Kirsten J. , Krüger Esedra , Pillay Bhavani S.
Published: February 2023

Background: Healthcare professionals may have a preconceived idea about life after an acquired brain injury (ABI). Understanding lived experiences of individuals with ABI and their significant others, post-hospitalisation, may improve communication between healthcare professionals and individuals directly influenced by the ABI.Objective: To describe perceived experiences of individuals with ABI, and their significant others, regarding rehabilitation services and returning to daily activities, one-month post-discharge from acute hospitalisation.Method: Semi-structured interviews, via an online platform, expanded on the experiences of six dyads (individuals with an ABI and their significant others). Data were thematically analysed.Results: Six main themes emerged that best described participants’ experiences; two of which were shared between individuals with ABI and their significant others (SO). Individuals with an ABI acknowledged recovery as their priority and highlighted the importance of patience. The need for counselling and additional support from healthcare professionals and peers arose. The SO expressed a need for written information, improved communication from healthcare professionals, and education regarding the implications of an ABI. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic negatively influenced all participants’ overall experiences, mainly because of termination of visiting hours. Psychosocial intervention would have been beneficial to all participants. Faith influenced most participants’ attitudes towards recovery and adapting post-ABI.Conclusion: Most participants accepted their new reality but required additional support to cope emotionally. Individuals with an ABI would benefit from opportunities to share experiences with and learn from others in a similar situation. Streamlined services and improved communication may alleviate anxiety among families during this crucial transitional period.Contribution: This article provides valuable information on the perspectives and experiences of individuals with ABI and their significant others during the transition from acute hospitalisation. The findings can assist with the continuity of care, integrative health and supportive strategies during the transition period post-ABI.
Motivation to explicitly teach reading comprehension strategies after a workshop
Authors: Tiba Chantyclaire
Published: February 2023

Background: Teachers are important role players in improving literacy; however, they lack the expertise to explicitly teach reading comprehension strategies. Studies have showed that when teachers are motivated to explicitly teach reading comprehension strategies in their classrooms, learners’ comprehension is improved.Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate what motivates teachers to explicitly teach reading comprehension strategies in their classrooms after a workshop.Method: Purposive sampling was used and 20 teachers took part in this study. The research followed a qualitative approach, and the data were obtained from teachers’ responses to an open-ended questionnaire. Thematic analysis using concepts from Shulman’s ‘Pedagogical Content Knowledge’, Vygotsky’s ‘Social Constructivism’, Bundura’s ‘Self-efficacy’ and Chalmers and Gardiner’s ‘Academic Professional Development Effectiveness Framework’ was conducted.Results: One key finding was that teachers developed competence through effective pedagogical practices used by facilitators of the workshop; this boosted their confidence.Conclusion: The findings suggest that professional development training plays an important role in making teachers aware of reading comprehension strategies, equipping them with skills that will enable them to guide learners to become proficient readers.Contribution: The uniqueness of this study is that it hinged on collecting empirical evidence, within a South African context, on what motivates teachers to explicitly teach reading comprehension in their professional practice after being exposed to a repertoire of reading comprehension strategies during a workshop.
Developing entrustable professional activities for family medicine training in South Africa
Authors: Jenkins Louis S. , Mash Robert , Motsohi Ts'epo , Naidoo Mergan , Ras Tasleem , Cooke Richard , Brits Hanneke
Published: February 2023

Workplace-based assessment (WPBA) is becoming part of high-stake assessments in specialist training. Entrustable professional activities (EPAs) are a recent addition to WPBA. This is the first South African publication on developing EPAs for postgraduate family medicine training. An EPA is a unit of practice, observable in the workplace, constituting several tasks with underlying knowledge, skills and professional behaviours. Entrustable professional activities allow for entrustable decisions regarding competence in a described work context. A national workgroup representing all nine postgraduate training programmes in South Africa has developed 19 EPAs. This new concept needs change management to understand the theory and practice of EPAs. Family medicine departments with large clinical workloads are small, necessitating navigating logistical issues to develop EPAs. It has unmasked existing workplace learning and assessment challenges.Contribution: This article contributes new thinking to developing EPAs for family medicine in an effort to understand more authentic WPBA nationally.
The dialectics between the unity and diversity of the church: A jigsaw puzzle metaphor
Authors: Siahaan Harls E.R. , Siahaya Johannis
Published: February 2023

Conflict is often colouring the diversities of theology, besides church divisions, especially in the Indonesian context. In minimising the conflict, adequate knowledge is needed to understand that the diversity of theology is the essence of church unity. Apostle Paul explained the diversities in church unity using the metaphor of the body of Christ. This metaphor is inadequate to explain the differences in theological teachings as the essence of the unity of the church, especially in this postmodern era. This article offered a jigsaw puzzle metaphor to quickly understand the nature of the church’s unity in its diversity. This puzzle is a well-known game type played by many people in various age groups worldwide. By using descriptive analysis and analogy methods, it resulted in an understanding of the description of the church’s diversity through jigsaw pieces as an essential element in forming a complete and perfect image, namely the one and universal church, by arranging each jigsaw piece according to the pattern formed as the blueprint. In conclusion, theology can adopt this metaphor as a discourse in establishing church unity in the ecumenical project.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This article discusses the diversities of theological and dogmatic forms that represent every church denomination as the essence of the one and universal church. This study offers a constructive theological model to understand diversity as the essence of church unity in an ecumenical project.
Comparative Study of Bupivacaine-Fentanyl versus Ropivacaine-Fentanyl for Epidural Analgesia in Labor
Authors: Bhatia Upasna , Shah Vandana , Soni Ekta S , Bajaj Manan , Patel Kirti D , Pandya Charu J , Vasaiya Harish
Published: February 2023

Background:

Labor pain is one of the most intense pains that a woman experiences. Almost 60% of primiparous women described the pain of uterine contractions as unbearable extremely severe or excruciating.

Aims:

Our study aimed to relieve pain suffering of mother and to decrease fetal acidosis to make the delivery process safer for mother and baby.

Settings and Design:

Thus, epidural labor analgesia was designed comparing ropivacaine-fentanyl (RF) and bupivacaine-fentanyl (BF) as intermittent bolus technique.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty women who requested epidural analgesia having ≥3 cm cervical dilatation were allocated in two groups, one group received RF and the other group received BF. Each group received study drug 16 mL with 50 μg fentanyl and top of 10 mL and 25 μg fentanyl when visual analog scale (VAS) ≥3. The efficacy of analgesia, adverse effects, and obstetric and neonatal outcomes were compared.

Statistical Analysis:

For skewed data or ordered categorical data, nonparametric Mann–Whitney U-test was used for statistical analysis of two groups. For categorical data, comparisons were made by Pearson's Chi-square test or Fisher's exact test as appropriate (%).

Results:

Both groups were comparable in terms of demographic data and obstetric and neonatal parameters at the onset of labor Comparison of heart rate, systolic blood pressure (BP), diastolic BP, and saturation between Group RF and Group BF. It was found statistically not significant. VAS score before the epidural study drug was given, was 5 (4–5) in RF group, and was 5 (3–6) in BF group, and after 1 min, VAS score was 1 in both the groups thereafter. The score remained zero till at 100 min in both the groups till the time when the top-up dose was given. Bearing down reflex was present in all the patients as judged by the obstetrician. It was sluggish in 20% of patients in Group RF as compared to 10% in Group BF.

Conclusions:

From clinical and safety perspective, both RF and BF were reasonable choice for labor analgesia.
Origin of all Three Coronaries from Single Ostium
Authors: Deora Surender , Sharma Jai Bharat , Kaushik Atul , Choudhary Rahul
Published: February 2023

Origin of coronary arteries from the opposite sinus of Valsalva is rare and origin from a single ostium is extremely rare. Patients with these anomalies may have myocardial ischemia because of altered ostial configuration, exit angulation from the aorta, the course between great arteries, and atherosclerosis. Usually, these anomalies are diagnosed during coronary angiography either by computed tomography or catheter-based. Management depends upon the coronary anomaly and associated clinical condition.
The Long-Term Impact of a Holistic Inpatient Treatment Program for Substance use Disorders: 498 Patients Personally Revisited after 5-10 Years
Authors: Singh Rajinder , Mahintamani Tathagata , Singh Onkar , Gupta Nand Lal , Kashyap Deepti
Published: February 2023

Background:

Holistic treatment often better impacts recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) in terms of treatment retention and psychosocial improvement. Studies on the long-term outcome of such treatment programs are needed from India.

Materials and Methods:

We traced and interviewed 498 patients face to face after 5–10 years from their last inpatient treatment with holistic approach in a rural addiction treatment center in Punjab. We used a semi-structured questionnaire for the assessment of various clinical, social, and behavioral parameters. Patients were asked about their experience during inpatient treatment and treatment modalities, and qualitative assessment was performed by content analysis.

Results:

The mean age of onset was 21.1 ± 7 years, and the mean duration of dependence was around 10 years. At the final assessment, 33% of the patients had relapsed, 32% were abstinent, 27% were abstinent with intermittent lapses, and the rest of them died. Intergroup comparison revealed that with respect to the relapsed group, abstinent patients had more regular follow-up (χ2
= 52.8, P < 0.001), physical exercise (χ2
= 50.5, P < 0.001), social interaction (χ2
= 11.4, P = 0.02), better marital relationship (χ2
= 202.5, P < 0.001), participation in household works (χ2
= 159.5, P < 0.001), and more favorable rating of the treatment center (χ2
= 70.4, P < 0.001). The majority of satisfied patients felt that overall good facility and service during inpatient treatment helped in their recovery.

Conclusion:

There was an overall improvement in psychosocial functioning in the abstinent patients after the holistic treatment. The positive changes are persistent after an interval of around 5 to 10 years. The inadequate treatment utilization of the relapsed group requires attention and redressal.
Relationship of Mindfulness with Depression, Self-Management, and Quality of Life in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Mindfulness is a Predictor of Quality of Life
Authors: Patra Suravi , Patro Binod Kumar , Padhy Susanta Kumar , Mantri Jogamaya
Published: February 2023

Context:

Mindfulness interventions have shown promising results in both psychological and clinical outcomes of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Depression, self-management, and quality of life (QOL) have shown improvement with mindfulness interventions; however, little is known about dispositional mindfulness and its relationship with depression, self-management, and QOL in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Aims:

The aim of this study is to assess the relationship of dispositional mindfulness with depression, self-management, and QOL in patients of type 2 diabetes.

Settings and Design:

Noncommunicable disease outpatient department of a tertiary care medical center of East India. Cross-sectional study.

Subjects and Methods:

Ninety-nine patients with type 2 diabetes completed the Five Facets Mindfulness Questionnaire, Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire, and World Health Organization QOL BREF questionnaire and Hamilton Rating Scale for depression.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Pearson’s correlation and hierarchical regression analysis using the SPSS software version 20.0.

Results:

Describing, acting with awareness, and nonjudging facets of mindfulness showed a negative correlation with depression (P < 0.05). Acting with awareness and nonreactivity to inner experience were positively correlated with the physical activity domains of self-management (P < 0.05). All facets of mindfulness showed a positive correlation with four domains of QOL. In hierarchical regression analysis, after controlling for sociodemographic and clinical variables, mindfulness predicted the psychological domain of QOL, explaining 31% of the variance (P ≤ 0.001). However, mindfulness did not predict depression or self-management.

Conclusions:

Dispositional mindfulness is a strong predictor of QOL in type 2 diabetes mellitus and hence can be targeted with interventions to improve psychological outcomes.
Internal Jugular Vein Perforation Due to Blind Temporary Pacing Lead Insertion
Authors: Sofi Najeeb Ullah , Sinha Santosh Kumar , Sachan Mohit
Published: February 2023

Temporary pacing lead is placed through the internal jugular, subclavian or femoral vein under fluoroscopic, echocardiographic, or electrocardiographic guidance. However, in most of the developing world, this procedure is done without fluoroscopic guidance. Blind procedures are known to be associated with more complications as compared to guided procedures. Here, we report a case of the right internal jugular vein perforation while placing the temporary pacing lead in an 80-year-old male patient who had permanent pacemaker implantation done 10 years back and had developed right subclavian and brachiocephalic vein stenosis. Clinicians need to be aware of this rare complication and preferably do these procedures under fluoroscopic guidance and avoid an overzealous approach if the pacing lead does not pass through easily. Patients who had undergone any procedure through their central venous system, especially with retained catheters and pacing leads in situ in the past should undergo a venogram before planning any reintervention from the ipsilateral side to avoid such complications.
The Sensitivity and Specificity of Electrocardiogram in Localizing the Culprit Artery with Angiographic Correlation in Indian Patients with Acute St-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Joseph Jacob , Menon Jaideep C.
Published: February 2023

Background:

A detailed analysis of electrocardiogram (ECG) patterns may help in the identification of the precise site and location of coronary artery occlusions and guide the selection of an appropriate clinical therapeutic strategy in patients with myocardial infarction (MI).

Aim:

This study was conducted to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of prespecified ECG criteria in localizing the culprit artery in acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and to correlate the ECG findings with coronary angiogram.

Methods:

Patients with acute STEMI aged ≥l8 years, diagnosed by ECG and who underwent angiography, were included for analysis. The infarct-related artery was identified with prespecified ECG criteria and the measure of agreement kappa was calculated to find the correlation between ECG findings and coronary angiogram.

Results:

Of 118 patients, anterior wall myocardial infarction (AWMI) was more common than inferior wall myocardial infarction (IWMI) (56% vs. 46%). In AWMI, ST-elevation ≥2.5 mm in V1 and ST-elevation in augmented Vector Left (aVL) had high sensitivity for detecting occlusion proximal to S1 and D1. High correlation with the angiogram was observed with ST-elevation in aVL, V1 for occlusion proximal to S1 and D1 (κ = 0.531; P = 0.000). In IWMI, ST-elevation in lead III > II and ST-elevation ≥1 mm in II, III, augmented Vector Foot (aVF) had maximum sensitivity in detecting occlusion in proximal and distal right coronary artery (RCA). High correlation with the angiogram was observed with ST-elevation in lead III > II (κ = 0.438; P = 0.000) and ST-coving without ST-elevation in RV4 (sensitivity = 79%, κ = 0.402; P = 0.002) for occlusion in the RCA. Ratio of S:R waves amplitude in aVL ≤3 and ST-depression ≥0.5 mm V1-V3 were 100% sensitive for occlusion in the left circumflex (LCx). Strong correlation with the angiogram was observed with ST-elevation ≥0.5 mm V7–V9 for occlusion in LCx (sensitivity = 94%, κ = 0.743; P = 0.000).

Conclusion:

ECG in patients with STEMI is valuable and can reliably predict the culprit artery in these patients prior to angiography.
Difficulties with Optical Coherence to mography in Assessment of an In-Stent Restenosis Lesion
Authors: Venkata Subrahmanya Sarma R. S. , Koduru Gopalakrishna , Koduru Purnachandra Rao , Ghanta Somasekahr , Chowdary Parvathaneni Sarada Srinivas , Palaparti Raghuram , Boppana Dasarath , Swarajyam V. , Srinivas Y. , Sasidhar Y. , Prasad M.
Published: February 2023

In-stent restenosis (ISR) is a critical drawback of coronary stents, although initially described as benign, guidelines both support the use of intravascular imaging in the diagnosis and treatment of stent failure (Class IIa); however, our case highlights the limitation of optical coherence tomography in the assessment of the ISR (stent failure), it also highlights the association of self-limited severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 illness and an acute coronary syndrome ISR presentation.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement for Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Authors: Sathyamurthy Immaneni , Satish Sai
Published: February 2023

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is being routinely done in various centres for aortic stenosis due to tricuspid aortic valves. The number of TAVR procedures are increasing, but the data on bicuspid aortic valves (BAV) is scanty. BAV is commonest abnormality in general population and can progress to severe aortic stenosis. BAVs are a heterogeneous group due to anatomical variations and these valves are large, elliptical with asymmetric calcification. Echocardiography, multidetector CT scans help in diagnosing various phenotypes and in pre TAVR work up in sizing the device. The major issues regarding TAVR in BAVs are improper deployment of the valve, increased risk of strokes, paravalvular leaks, need for second device and requirement for pacemakers. With new generation devices the complication rates are coming down indicating their safe usage in BAVs. Data from TAVR registries and published studies have shown the applicability of TAVR in BAVs with acceptable outcomes.
Treatment Strategies of Hypokalemia in Heart Failure
Authors: Surendran Kavya , Joseph Beenu Maria , Vilapurathu Jobin Kunjumon
Published: February 2023

Sudden cardiac death is estimated to affect approximately three million people worldwide each year. Substrates and triggers often play a complex role in these deaths. Among the heart cells, disturbed potassium homeostasis is one such trigger. Hypokalemia and transient drops in potassium concentration are significant issues. Heart failure (HF) therapy is increasingly complicated by maintaining normal serum potassium (K+) homeostasis. As a result of the use of loop diuretics hypokalemia has become a severe and feared side effect of treatment. Hypokalemia in HF also indicates greater neurohormonal activity and progression of disease. Personalized drug use and monitoring of electrolytes are crucial for successful treatment. The lowest dose of diuretic necessary to maintain euvolemia should be prescribed to HF patients with symptoms (New York Heart Association Class III-IV). Aldosterone receptor antagonists, spironolactone can be used to treat mild hypokalemia. For more severe, K + supplement is recommended. Levels should be routinely monitored and kept between 4.0 and 5.5 mEq/l.
Simultaneous Presence of Atrial Arrhythmia and Hypocalcemia in Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Singhi Anil Kumar , Mukherjee Sanjeev S. , Kumar K. H. Shine , Kumar Raman Krishna
Published: February 2023

Dilated cardiomyopathy in young children has varied etiological factors. Some cases have correctable causes such as incessant arrhythmia, correctable metabolic abnormality, and left ventricular obstructive lesions. Two 4-month-old infants presented with severe left ventricular dysfunction and ectopic atrial tachycardia. Biochemical profile of the infants showed low ionic and total calcium, elevated serum phosphate, elevated alkaline phosphatase, and elevated serum lactate. The parathyroid hormone was elevated and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 was reduced. The patients were treated with beta-blocker, calcium, and Vitamin D supplementation, along with antifailure therapy. The tachycardia resolved over a 12-h period and calcium normalized in the next few days. The left ventricular function returned to normal over a 5–16-month period. In 6–8 years of follow-up, patients were in sinus rhythm doing very well with normal cardiac function with normal calcium-related biochemical parameters. The presence of incessant atrial arrhythmia in a case of hypocalcemic cardiomyopathy is rare and can have link with hypocalcemia-induced electrical changes in the cardiomyocyte in selected cases. Thorough and protocol-based treatment approach helps in correct diagnosis and treatment. Further study and molecular research can shed more light on the complex interaction of hypocalcemia and arrhythmia.
A Rare Case of Primary Cardiac Synovial Sarcoma with Thromboctopenia
Authors: Peesapati Nrushen , Redrouthu Ashok Kumar
Published: February 2023

Primary cardiac tumors are of rare presentation. We present a case of primary cardiac synovial sarcoma of the right atrium admitted to our hospital. An initial diagnosis of right atrial myxoma or hydatid cyst was made based on echocardiographic and radiological features. Intraoperatively, an irregular mass was excised, and histopathologically, it was reported as monophasic synovial sarcoma. Immunohistochemistry was positive for TLE-1, BCL-2, and MIC-2.
Implication of Scanning Electron Microscopy and Light Microscopy for Morphology of Some Selected Seed Drugs
Authors: Munir Ramiza , Khan Basheer , Dastagir Ghulam , Ul Uza Noor
Published: February 2023

Background:

The goal of our current study is to use Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy (LM) to evaluate the ultra-micromorphological properties of 14 seed drugs to correctly identify and validate them. There was no previous research on SEM-based evaluation of the selected seeds. These included: Solanum
nigrum L., Physalis
peruviana L., Cestrum
diurrnum L., Withania somnifera L. Dunal, Achyranthus
aspera L., Celosia
argentia L., Chenopodium
murale L., Cyperus
alternifolius L., Cyperus rotundus L., Schoenoplectus
litoralis (Schrad.) Palla, Oxalis
corniculata L., Catharanthus
roseus L., Canna
indica L., and Parthenium
hysterophorus L. belonging to 7 families (Solanaceae, Amaranthaceae, Cyperaceae, Oxalidaceae, Apocynaceae, Cannaceae, and Asteraceae).

Methods:

Quantitative characters (length, width, and weight of seeds) as well as qualitative characters (seed shape, color, texture, and surface level of seeds) were analyzed.

Results:

Seeds length ranged from 0.6 μm (C.
indica) to 2.4 μm (A.
aspera) while, the seeds width and weight ranged from 0.6 μm (C.
indica) to 1.8 μm (W.
somnifera) and 0.03 g (C.
indica) to 3.7 g (C.
argentia), respectively. The SEM revealed many types of surface texture. Five types of surface levels (raised, regular, smooth, rough, and ill-defined pattern) were observed in seeds. The variation was found to be quite significant for the taxonomic demarcation at generic and specific levels.

Conclusions:

SEM could be a valuable approach for hidden morphological features of seed drugs, which could aid further exploration, appropriate identification, seed taxonomy, and authenticity. SEM and LM also play an important role in drug discovery and development.
Association of Glasgow coma scale and endotracheal intubation in predicting mortality among patients admitted to the intensive care unit
Authors: Moghaddam Nader Markazi , Fathi Mohammad , Jame Sanaz Zargar Balaye , Darvishi Mohammad , Mortazavi Morteza
Published: February 2023

Background: We assessed predictors of mortality in the intensive care unit (ICU) and investigated if Glasgow coma scale (GCS) is associated with mortality in patients undergoing endotracheal intubation (EI).Methods: From February 2020, we performed a 1-year study on 2,055 adult patients admitted to the ICU of two teaching hospitals. The outcome was mortality during ICU stay and the predictors were patients’ demographic, clinical, and laboratory features.Results: EI was associated with a decreased risk for mortality compared with similar patients (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.32; P=0.030). This shows that EI had been performed correctly with proper indications. Increasing age (AOR, 1.04; P<0.001) or blood pressure (AOR, 1.01; P<0.001), respiratory problems (AOR, 3.24; P<0.001), nosocomial infection (AOR, 1.64; P=0.014), diabetes (AOR, 5.69; P<0.001), history of myocardial infarction (AOR, 2.52; P<0.001), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AOR, 3.93; P<0.001), immunosuppression (AOR, 3.15; P<0.001), and the use of anesthetics/sedatives/hypnotics for reasons other than EI (AOR, 4.60; P<0.001) were directly; and GCS (AOR, 0.84; P<0.001) was inversely related to mortality. In patients with trauma surgeries (AOR, 0.62; P=0.014) or other surgical categories (AOR, 0.61; P=0.024) undergoing EI, GCS had an inverse relation with mortality (accuracy=82.6%, area under the receiver operator characteristic curve=0.81).Conclusions: A variety of features affected the risk for mortality in patients admitted to the ICU. Considering GCS score for EI had the potential of affecting prognosis in subgroups of patients such as those with trauma surgeries or other surgical categories.
The diagnostic accuracy of ultrasonography over manual aspiration for gastric reserve volume estimation in
critically ill patients
Authors: Sharma Rahul , Dogra Ravi Kant , Pathania Jyoti , Sharma Arti
Published: February 2023

Background: Although gastric reserve volume (GRV) is a surrogate marker for gastrointestinal dysfunction and feeding intolerance. There is ambiguity in its estimation in most of the international guidelines due to problems associated with its measurement. Ever since point of care ultrasound has entered into the armamentarium of anesthetists, it has kindled interest for its efficient use for this estimation. Methods: In this prospective observational study we recruited 57 critically ill patients and thus analyzed 586 samples of GRV obtained by both ultrasonographic (USG) and manual aspiration method done simultaneously on these patients.Results: USG-guided GRV was significantly correlated (r=0.788, P<0.0001)and in positive agreement with manual aspiration technique by Bland-Altman plot with mean average of difference of 8.5±14.84 (95% confidence interval [CI], 7.389–9.798) The upper and lower limit of agreement were 37.7 and –20.5 which too were within the ±1.96 standard deviation (P<0.0001).The sensitivity and positive predictive value, specificity and negative predictive value, AUC (95% CI) of the USG for finding out the feed intolerance was (66.67%, 98.15%, 0.8) in our study with 96.49% diagnostic accuracy.Conclusions: Ultrasonographic estimation of GRV was positively, significantly correlated and was in agreement with manual aspiration method. It estimated feed intolerance earlier than manual aspiration technique. With routine use of gastric USG, its use could possibly be extrapolated in clinical situations where feeding status is unclear and there is high risk of aspiration and we hope it will eventually become a standard practice of critical care.
Investigation of Wear and Corrosion Behavior of Aluminum Metal Matrix Composites for Automotive Applications
Authors: Naiju CD , Annamalai Krishnamoorthy , Thangaraj Jayakumar
Published: February 2023

This research is an attempt to investigate the possibility of enhancing wear and corrosion behaviour of aluminium alloy and composites for high-temperature applications. The 319 alloys with minor additions of Ni, Ti and Fe elements using the liquid metallurgy technique, Al-Si-Cu-Mg matrix alloy (Al alloy) was obtained and it was used as a base alloy and it is reinforced with Silicon carbide (SiC), Magnesium oxide (MgO) under the following composites, namely Al alloy/3wt % MgO (AA-SRM), Al alloy/ 3wt % SiC (AA-SRS) and Al alloy/3wt %SiC-3wt % MgO (AAHRSM) using a stir casting route. The wear test was investigated under the following factors, namely constant sliding velocity 3.21 m/s, sliding distance up to 10000 m under different loadings (4.9, 9.8, 14.7, 19.62, and 24.5 N) using wear test by a pin on the disc test rig. The wear rate was calculated using the tested samples under different loadings, sliding distance, and weight concentration conditions. Morphology studies of the Aluminium alloy and composites samples and their worn surface structure were examined using SEM. Finally, the corrosion test was analyzed under various environmental conditions using the specimen immersion technique. The Al-Si-Cu-Mg alloy and metal matrix composites samples were immersed for 120 hours in the concentration 0.3M H2SO4, 3.5 weight concentration NaCl, and 0.1M NaOH solution at room temperature condition. The rate of corrosion was calculated using the weight loss method.
Modular Design and Analyze of Air Intake Manifold for Formula Vehicle
Authors: Ranganathan Soundararajan , kumar Saravana , thirunavukkarasu Shoban , Muthuswamy Sendil P
Published: February 2023

The SAE formula student car organization constrained a rule to place a restrictor of diameter 20mm in between the throttle body and the engine inlet. The restrictor is a component that reduces and regulates the mass flow of air into the engine inlet. For this, a venture nozzle will be used as a restrictor in a vehicle to decrease the air pressure and increase the velocity in the intake manifold. Our proposed work aims to minimize the pressure drop by changing the convergent and divergent angles in the restrictor. For this by using solidworks eight various combinations of models with convergent angle as 13, 15 degrees, and divergent angle as 5,7 degrees was designed and analyzed using CFD fluent in ansys work bench. In this, 13 degree as convergent and 5 degree as a divergent model was found to have laminar airflow throughout with optimum pressure drop. The plenum is a large duct that equalizes the pressure drop caused by the restrictor in order to improve the efficiency of the engine. By varying the shape of the plenum as elliptical, with volume as 1.8, 2.8Litres eight models were designed and analyzed by applying constrains in velocity and pressure of air medium flowing through it. It was found that the elliptical shape of volume 1.8 Liters with a 15degree convergent and 7degree divergent angle was suitable to maintain effective output and response of the engine. Therefore, the proposed model of restrictor and plenum will be recommended for the nominal response of the engine without affecting the efficiency.
Drag Optimization of Multi-Axle Commercial Vehicle Model Using ANSYS Fluent
Authors: Natarajan Ravikumar , C Sivakumar , M Balasrinivasan , Arulvizhi Varun Kumar , Ravi Vignesh
Published: February 2023

Aerodynamics is the study of the effects of air when in motion. The vehicle aerodynamics have become crucial since have realized its importance. This study has been focused on optimizing the aerodynamics with means of adding external aerodynamic component. A custom built multi-axle commercial vehicle (CV) model is subjected to aerodynamic modification and optimized. The components are modified to their optimum size, angle and shape to achieve the best to reduce the drag coefficient, and enhance better performance. The physical appearance of the custom built multi-axle commercial vehicle model has been given keen significance while designing the external devices. All the analysis and modifications have been tried out computationally in the CFD software “ANSYS Fluent” and the CAD modeling in “Creo Parametric”.
Tribological Properties Evaluation of Newly Developed Friction Material for Automotive Disc Brake Pad
Authors: Natarajan Ravikumar , Rajendran R , ARASAN PhD T R TAMIL , PANDURANGAN RANJITH
Published: February 2023

The present work aims at investigating the tribological behavior of a newly developed friction materials and its performance is compared with the commercial brake pad under dry sliding conditions. The friction materials were made in the form of cylindrical pin from three different solid lubricants - graphite, molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and graphene - keeping the other ingredients fixed. The prepared seven samples (BP01- Graphite, BP02- MoS2, BP03- Graphite &MoS2, BP04- Graphene, BP05- Graphene & Graphite, BP06 - Graphene & MoS2, BP07 - Graphene, Graphite & MoS2) were tested in pin and disc machine and compared to investigate the coefficient of friction, wear resistance followed by hardness test and thermal degradation analysis. The results showed that the wear loss and coefficient of friction of the developed friction materials were strongly influenced by the type and percentage of solid lubricants. The performance of the newly developed friction materials is better than the commercial brake pad which signifies that it could be used in commercial automotive applications.
Modeling and Fabrication of CFRP Tubes for Double Wishbone Suspension of Formula SAE Race-Car
Authors: Aulakh Savitoj Singh , Elsen Renold
Published: February 2023

The objective of this work is to present the study on experimental data of the strength characteristics of Carbon fiber reinforced thermo-set polymer tubes used in manufacturing of Formula SAE racecar suspension. The detailed explanation of a new approach used in fabricating high quality tubes is described and a comparison is formed between two techniques. The design objective of reducing weight while maintaining the structural integrity is met. A balance between stiffness, weight, strength, manufacturability and cost must be maintained in the suspension components of any racecar. There are three driving factors that make composites the ideal material for application in many suspension components in the Formula SAE competition: weight, stiffness and strength. Composite materials can be tailored to meet the axial tension-compression load paths that pushrods, A-arms and steering arms undergo better than any other material due to their anisotropic properties. The performance advantage is amplified by high strength to weight ratio as CFRP brings about increase in strength and stiffness and decreased weight within a part. Only limitation being manufacturability, as most designs contain a hollow cylindrical links which in form of composite structures can be challenging to manufacture as pressure needs to be applied to both on the internal and the external side of the laminate. Usually most carbon fiber tubes with a continuous profile are manufactured by roll-wrapping, pultrusion or filament winding each method has its own advantage and disadvantage. The manufacturing technique applied in this work is better suited to applications where small length custom lightweight and stable tubing is required. The response of tubes undergoing failure mechanisms during axial and bending loads by destructive testing are discussed and well defined by the using a finite element model.
Autonomous Quadcopter for Building Construction Monitoring
Authors: V Hariprasad , MS Yaswanth , V Sathish , N Yamuna , V Karthick Sreenivasan , K Sivakumar
Published: February 2023

Feasibility in Manufacturing of autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles at low cost allows the UAV developers to bring it out with numerous applications for society. Civil domain is a widely developing platform which initiated the development of UAV for civilian applications like bridge inspection, building monitoring, life or strength estimation of historical places and also outdoor and indoor mapping of buildings. These autonomous UAVs with high resolution camera fly over and around the construction sites, buildings, mines and captures images of various locations and point clouds in all sides of the building and creates a 3D map by using photogrammetry techniques. The software auto generates the report and updates it to the cloud which can be accessed online. Autonomous operations are quite difficult in new environments which requires SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping) to operate the UAV between open spaces. This paper describes the technique of mapping a construction site using a quadcopter and determine the completion of such constructions using image processing and machine learning techniques. Obstacle avoidance during the autonomous flight using ultrasonic sensors provide greater flexibility of the vehicle to move around the buildings.
Classifying topoi in synthetic guarded domain theory
Authors: Palombi Daniele , Sterling Jonathan
Published: February 2023

Several different topoi have played an important role in the development and applications of synthetic guarded domain theory (SGDT), a new kind of synthetic domain theory that abstracts the concept of guarded recursion frequently employed in the semantics of programming languages. In order to unify the accounts of guarded recursion and coinduction, several authors have enriched SGDT with multiple "clocks" parameterizing different time-streams, leading to more complex and difficult to understand topos models. Until now these topoi have been understood very concretely qua categories of presheaves, and the logico-geometrical question of what theories these topoi classify has remained open. We show that several important topos models of SGDT classify very simple geometric theories, and that the passage to various forms of multi-clock guarded recursion can be rephrased more compositionally in terms of the lower bagtopos construction of Vickers and variations thereon due to Johnstone. We contribute to the consolidation of SGDT by isolating the universal property of multi-clock guarded recursion as a modular construction that applies to any topos model of single-clock guarded recursion.

Comment: 38th International Conference on Mathematical Foundations of Programming Semantics (MFPS 2022)