bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gait Analysis of Eight Legged Robot
Authors: Ahmad Mohammad Imtiyaz , Biswas Dilip Kumar , ROY S. S
Published: January 2021

For any legged mobile machine, gait is the methodical, logical and scientific lifting and placement of foot to follow desired path on the desired terrain. To run a walking machine on any terrain, selection and analysis of gait is must. To meet the locomotion characteristics of an eight-legged robot in this paper we describe gait analysis of eight legged spider like robot. The longitudinal gait stability margin of the robot changes with change in duty factor. We analyze the wave gait and equal phase gait for this legged robot and found that there is a jump in stability margin of full cycle equal phase gait to that of wave gait at duty factor 3/4, and stability margin of half cycle equal phase gait jumps to wave gait at duty factor 7/8. We try to verify our result through graphical and simulation analysis.
PLANNING AND PERFORMANCE: EXPLORATORY FINDINGS FROM SMALL AND MEDIUM RUBBER AND PLASTIC SECTOR FIRMS
Authors: MADHU MEERA , P BIJU AUGUSTINE , M BHASI
Published: January 2021

This paper links SME performance, with the use of planning and demographics of key person. A model and research frame work has been developed to study the linkage between dependent (SME performance) and independent (use of planning) variables. Structured questionnaire schedule is developed, based on previous research works in this area. A survey is conducted among the representative firms (SMEs in rubber and plastic sector). Statistical test using SPSS and AMOS is conducted and the results are interpreted. Univariate and multivariate tests are used to test the hypotheses formed. Planning, standardization and IT usage by the firms are significantly influencing firm performance. The paper highlights the importance of planning to better the firm performance. For the SMEs to come fourth and to survive in this highly competitive and globalized environment, specific competencies of planning and IT usage are to be attained.
AGEING RATE OF PAPER INSULATION IN TRANSFORMERS ON ITS MECHANICAL STRENGTH
Authors: MURTHY K.L.N. , MOHAMMAD FATHE , REDDY S.SREENATHA
Published: January 2021

It is well known that the paper and oil used in transformers Degrade with time at rates which depend on the temperature and the amount of air and water present [1, 2]. Various devices such as completely sealing the units, using nitrogen blankets and using flexible membranes, have been suggested as means of improving the lifetime of the oil. In addition, thermally upgraded papers have been devised and have been available for some years. Some supply authorities and transformer manufacturers have been using some or all of these devices with varying degrees of success. Many others have taken the stance of cautious awareness. In the absence of any evidence that normal papers are inadequate, they have continued to use them in transformers fitted with conservators. As part of this current overall package of research, paper aging was re-examined with a view to reassessing the need for change, either in the materials or practices Used or in the preservation systems.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDIES ON MECHANICAL, FRICTION AND WEAR OF NON ASBESTOS ORGANIC BRAKE LININGS FOR LIGHT MOTOR VEHICLE
Authors: NATARAJAN M.P. , RAJMOHAN B. , DEVARAJULU S.
Published: January 2021

In this study, flyash based non asbestos organic brake lining composition of more than 14 ingredients was investigated to study the effect of ingredients on various behavior of friction properties. Two types of friction materials with different combinations were developed: i) fly ash range (10 %to 60%) and ii) without fly ash based friction materials were investigated to study the effect of ingredients on the friction characteristics and wear. The main focus on the average normal coefficient of friction, hot coefficient of friction (Fade and recovery), wear loss, mechanical, as the function of the relative amount of the ingredient. The results also showed that the friction coefficient of fly ash based friction material was better in the range of 0.35 to 0.48 when compared barites based brake linings in the range of 0.46 to 0.58. The materials such as potassium titanate(terraces), wollastonite, friction dust powder have strongly influence on friction coefficient. The wear résistance of the brake linings was strongly affected by the presence of rock wool calcium hydroxide and zircon silicate. The presence of glass fiber, twaron fiber, glass fiber has increased the strength of the friction material. All these samples were tested on chase type friction tester at automobile ancillary unit.
AVAILABILITY OF WATER IN TAPI BASIN FOR MAHARASHTRA STATE
Authors: BONKILE SANJAY D. , PAJGADE P. S.
Published: January 2021

The Tapi basin is spread in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujrat.The water allotted to Maharashtra state is about 191.4 TMC has been exausted.There is no scope for new project in the region based on water availability. The attempt is being made to use the available water by transferring the same within sub-basin so that the different storages within the catchment can be optimally used to store the water.
FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS AND NATURAL FREQUENCY OPTIMIZATION OF ENGINE BRACKET
Authors: GHORPADE UMESH S. , CHAVAN D. S. , PATIL VINAAY , GAIKWAD MAHENDRA
Published: January 2021

The automotive engine mounting systems are very important due to different aspects of vehicle performance. Early in improvement the building of the engine mounting system should be rapidly checked and precisely analyzed, without sample of a vehicle authorization. Engine bracket has been designed as a framework to support engine. Vibration and fatigue of engine bracket has been continuously a concern which may lead to structural failure if the resulting vibration and stresses are severe and excessive. It is a significant study which requires in-depth investigation to understand the structural characteristics and its dynamic behavior. This paper presents and focuses on some Finite Element (FE) analysis of a typical engine bracket of a car will be carried out and natural frequency will be determined.
NUMERICAL TRANSIENT HEAT TRANSFER ANALYSIS OF REACTOR FOR MAGNESIUM BASED ALLOY FOR HYDROGEN STORAGE APPLICATION
Authors: TILVA B. D. , SHAH N. K. , BAMBHANIYA K. G. , GREWAL G. S.
Published: January 2021

Metal hydrides are potential hydrogen storage media. They release hydrogen at moderate temperatures and pressures. Magnesium hydride is a promising approach for stationary power system application, due to high hydrogen storage capacity by weight. Magnesium hydride based reactor design is more complex due to high thermal energy release and absorption during hydriding reaction and dehydriding reaction, respectively. In this study, results of a numerical modeling study are presented for a 1.5 kg Magnesium alloy based hydriding reactor. Temperature profile in the reactor is computed by FEM analysis using ANSYS software for hydriding and dehydriding reaction. FEM analysis indicates that the reactor temperature is raised from 200 C to 422 ºC in 20 minutes during the hydriding process. Hence, a “cooling system” is required for maintaining temperature during the hydriding process. During the dehydriding process, maximum temperature drop occurs from 350 C to 189 ºC in 20 minutes. Therefore, an external heat source of 2 kW is required for maintaining the temperature during dehydriding. Details are presented.
STATISTICAL METHODS TO ESTIMATE NATURAL FREQUENCY OF AIR CONDITIONER PIPING
Authors: PATIL SWAPNIL A. , RAO A. S. , BAVISKAR LALIT
Published: January 2021

Resonance is a critical phenomena in the designing of any structure. Piping structure, which is one of the several elements of air conditioning and refrigeration system, undergo severe vibration. In practice different approaches such as experimental, analytical, numerical and statistical methods are used to study vibration characteristics of a structure. Statistical method acts as a first hand tool to judge the behaviour of a system. Statistical methods minimise redesign process and expensive methods of controlling vibrations, saving significant amount of effort, cost and time. In the present study, statistical methods are used to estimate fundamental natural frequency of a pipe by selecting different geometrical parameters. The natural frequency obtained can be used to check resonance. Geometrical parameters, which significantly affect the natural frequency, are estimated by using Design of Experiments (DOE) and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) techniques. A linear equation that predicts fundamental frequency is formulated using regression analysis. Frequencies predicted by regression model are compared to frequencies obtained from ANSYS Mechanical©. A good correlation is found with error less than 5%.
THERMOHYDRAULIC PERFORMANCE OF AN EQUILATERAL TRIANGULAR DUCT WITH ARTIFICIAL ROUGHNESS USED IN SOLAR AIR HEATER
Authors: BHARADWAJ GAURAV , VARUN VARUN , SHARMA AVDHESH
Published: January 2021

The thermohydraulic performance of artificially roughened equilateral triangular solar air heater duct has been investigated and the comparision of the same has been presented with that of a conventional smooth solar air heater duct. The range of relative roughness height (e/Dh) is from 0.021 to 0.043, value of angle of attack (α) and relative roughness pitch (p/e) has been 30° and 8 respectively. The range of Reynolds number is from 5600 to 28000 and aspect ratio of the duct is 1.15. It has been found that the thermohydraulic performance of artificially roughened triangular solar air heater duct is always more than that of the smooth absorber plate in the range of Reynolds number investigated.
WAVE ENERGY CONVERSION AN EMERGING MODE OF RENEWABLE AND SUSTAINABLE POWER GENERATION
Authors: RAGHUVANSHI DIGVIJAY SINGH , MINASE JAYESH L.
Published: January 2021

Ocean waves, if employed efficiently for generation of electricity, could result in the most economic green process (minimal carbon emission). This paper, based on the extensive literature survey conducted as a part of a B.Tech Project provides an overview of the current scenario of power generation and consumption in India thereby emphasizing on the progressively increasing power requirement and a lagging behind share of renewable energy. A scientific clarity is drawn on the basic theory behind wave generation and the key factors for assessing and deploying wave energy converters. Further, a few successful wave energy conversion techniques are discussed briefly, which posses the potential scope of future research and development and are presently employed under pre-commercial and commercial stages around the globe. A special emphasis is laid on the point absorber section which has been the area of research for the authors‘ project thereby detailing its constructional and working aspects and also discussing briefly an experimental procedure to set up a wave generator, to calculate mechanical conversion efficiency, and its scope of applicability. The conclusion is drawn in favor of the coastal communities which still rely on costly diesel for generating electricity.
NOISE SOURCE LOCATION OF UNDEREXPANDED NONCIRCULAR SLOT JETS
Authors: SAHU PANENDRA KUMAR , SRINIVASAN K
Published: January 2021

It is generally understood that the non-circular jets exhibit better mixing enhancement and noise suppression properties compared to circular jet. The present paper is on the experimental investigation of near acoustic field and noise source location of non-circular underexpanded jets and comparison with circular jet. Square, triangular, rectangular slot jets are considered in this work. The near field overall sound pressure level contours obtained along transverse plane and spanwise plane of non-circular jets and compared with circular jet for nozzle pressure ratio R at 4 and 5 which is analyzed to get noise source location for various jets. The effect of geometry in acoustic field in near field is highlighted in this paper.
DESIGN, FABRICATION AND SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS OF THE RESISTANCE TEMPERATURE DETECTOR THIN FILM SENSORS
Authors: KUMAR RAKESH , SAHOO NIRANJAN
Published: January 2021

Thin film heat transfer sensors are most cost effective resistance temperature detector (RTD) sensors for dynamic temperature measurements mainly because of very fast response time (milliseconds or less). These sensors are prepared by deposited high conducting very sensitive gauge material (platinum/nickel/silver) on the insulating surface (pyrex/macor/quartz). The purpose of this work is to fabricate different types of thin film sensors by using high conducting platinum and nanomaterials. After fabrication all these sensors are statically calibrated by oil bath type methods and the typical value of sensitivity for each sensor are calculated and then compared the results between them.
TENSILE TEST ANALYSIS OF NATURAL FIBER REINFORCED COMPOSITE
Authors: VELMURUGAN G. , VADIVEL D. , ARRAVIND R. , MATHIAZHAGAN A. , VENGATESAN S.P.
Published: January 2021

This project mainly deals with analysis of tensile properties of Palmyra fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composite that is suitable for automobile application. First, the property of material was obtained on the basis of some assumptions (i.e., Rule of Mixture) and was modeled with reference to ASTM D638. Here the simulation was carried out on specimen under different fiber volume fraction and fiber length. The present work includes the Analysis of Palmyra Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composites using FEA with various fiber volume fractions and these results were validated with the experimental result. The tensile property of Palmyra fiber composite material can be obtained by using tensometer.During the tensile load, the maximum strain, stress and displacement were obtained and, then this experimental result was compared with the analytical results and the error percentage of these results were calculated.
FATIGUE AND FRACTURE IN PAVEMENT
Authors: MORADI AMIN , SRAVANA P.
Published: January 2021

This paper we present what is fatigue ?and what is fracture? we will discuse on design aspects related to fatigue failure, an important mode of failure in engineering components. Fatigue failure results mainly due to variable loading or more precisely due to cyclic variations in the applied loading . A fatigue failure begins with a small crack; the initial crack may be so minute and can not be detected. The crack usually develops at a point of localized stress concentration like discontinuity in the material, such as a change in cross section, a keyway or a hole.for design pavement flexible or regid pavement cycle life or how many percentage of material damaged.one parameter of design in all branch of engineering is standard of test of fatigue and fracture.for example in pavement number of axles ,number of tires ,thickness of pavement ,kind of Load is effect on fatigue and fracture.
Evaluation of Mechanical properties of coir fiber reinforced polyester matrix composites
Authors: NAVEEN P.N.E. , RAJU T.DHARMA
Published: January 2021

This paper ―Evaluation Of Mechanical properties of coir fiber reinforced polymer matrix Composites‖ Natural fibres can be easily obtained in many tropical and available throughout the world. Today these fibres are considered as environment friendly materials owing to their biodegradability and renewable characteristics. The goal of this paper is to determine the mechanical (Static & Dynamic) properties of a proposed combined polymer composite which consist of a polyester matrix and coconut fibres (also known as coir fibres). The influence of fibres volume on the mechanical properties was also evaluated. Composites with volumetric amounts of coconut fibre up to 10% were fabricated and they were arranged in randomly oriented discontinues form. Tensile test was carried out to determine the strength of material by using Universal Testing Machine. The acquired results show that the tensile modulus changes with the fibre content. The strength of coconut fibre reinforced composites tends to decrease with the amount of fibre which indicates ineffective stress- transfer between the fibre and matrix. It was observed that the effects of reinforcing polyester matrix with the coconut fibres causes the composites to be more flexible and easily deform due to high strain values. In fact, it may also be used to reduce high resonant effect.
PAULO FREIRE CENTENÁRIO COM UMA OBRA CINQUENTENÁRIA
Authors: Romão José Eustáquio , Romão Natatcha Priscilla
Published: January 2021

Este artigo lembra que a melhor maneira de homenagear um pensador é demonstrando a atualidade de sua obra. Pedagogia do oprimido, a obra mais conhecida de Paulo Freire, completou 50 anos de sua primeira edição em 2020. No centenário de nascimento de Paulo Freire, em 19 de setembro de 2021, ela completa 51 anos e continua liderando, de todas as obras de pensadores brasileiros sua disseminação pelo mundo, em centenas de traduções e edições e em milhões de exemplares vendidos, numa demonstração de sua importância no século XXI.  O artigo reconstitui, historicamente, a elaboração dos originais e a trajetória das edições, com destaque para as primeiras, mormente para a realizada no Brasil, por causa de sua proibição imposta pela ditadura militar que se instalara no país em abril de 1964 e que banira Paulo Freire, bem como seu pensamento como “subversivo” da ordem autocrática imposta. Hoje, a onda neoconservadora que percorre parte da sociedade brasileira tenta, sem sucesso, exilá-lo de novo, mesmo que postumamente, bem como banir seu pensamento.
EDUCACION POPULAR Y POLITICA PUBLICA – PAULO FREIRE EM LA SECRETARIA DE EDUCACION DE SAN PABLO, 1989-1991.
Authors: Elisalde Roberto
Published: January 2021

Neste trabalho, propomos reconstruir a partir de uma perspectiva histórica a experiência de Paulo Freire à frente da Secretaria Municipal de Educação de São Paulo (SME-SP) no período 1989-1991, durante o governo do Partido dos Trabalhadores (PT). Em particular, iremos destacar algumas das primeiras medidas de gestão e problematizar conceitos que funcionam como substrato para este processo; ou seja, a identificação de certos critérios para a construção do poder popular nos quadros institucionais marcados por um estado de cunho capitalista. Por isso, esta pesquisa toma como referência incontornável a ascensão do PT e seus múltiplos triunfos políticos no final da década de 1980; verdadeiro apoio político à experiência de Paulo Freire como chefe da Secretaria Municipal de Educação de São Paulo. A educação popular e seus princípios libertadores penetraram assim no difícil terreno da institucionalidade e foram apresentados como uma estratégia de poder popular que aspirava a explicar como construir uma democracia radical e de base em uma rede institucional - como o da escola - que apresentava sinais evidentes de burocracia e verticalidade? Ou se quiser, como popularizar a escola pública construindo um novo modelo de qualidade social e, ao mesmo tempo, promovendo a participação e organização a partir das políticas públicas?
PAULO FREIRE: O ROUSSEAU DO SÉCULO VINTE: A ESSÊNCIA DE SUAS IDEIAS SOBRE ALFABETIZAÇÃO E LIBERTAÇÃO DO PONTO DE VISTA DE UM INDIANO E A PERSPECTIVA DO TERCEIRO MUNDO
Authors: Bhattacharya Asoke
Published: January 2021

Paulo Freire, como filósofo, associou a alfabetização à libertação e, como pedagogo, apresentou inovações revolucionárias nas técnicas de alfabetização do analfabeto adulto. Em seu método único, uma pessoa analfabeta poderia ser alfabetizada em um período de trinta horas. A evolução da epistemologia freireana foi atribuída às condições de vida no Nordeste brasileiro. Muitas das ideologias de Freire estavam enraizadas na história do Brasil. A colonização do país pelos portugueses e a forma como a população indígena foi submetida ao trabalho escravo e, posteriormente, a importação de milhões de escravos africanos para trabalhar nas plantações - provocaram profundas feridas psicológicas nas relações humanas. Escravidão, a forma mais degradante de relação social e econômica juntamente com a união sexual do senhor com o escravo trouxe uma espécie de sadismo por parte da supremacia branca e certo masoquismo por parte de indígenas e africanos. Mesmo após a abolição da escravidão (1888), o sadismo e o masoquismo continuaram assombrando a sociedade brasileira. As cicatrizes eram bastante visíveis durante o tempo de Freire, razão pela qual ele caracterizou a realidade do Brasil como 'opressora'. Apesar de tanto a humanização quanto a desumanização serem alternativas reais, apenas a primeira pode ser a 'vocação' do povo, e mesmo sendo constantemente negada, é afirmada por essa mesma negação, conjecturou Freire. A história do Brasil nos últimos quinhentos anos tem sido estudada; foi investigado como as várias fases de sua história resultaram na formulação da teoria e na prática de Freire sobre alfabetização e libertação. Por fim, foi explorada a aplicabilidade de sua teoria e pedagogia no campo da educação de adultos em outros países do terceiro mundo, incluindo a Índia.
Reflexões sobre a possibilidade de prorrogação de vigência dos contratos de fornecimento continuado de bens: uma necessidade!
Authors: Soares Thiago de Oliveira , Franco Neto Eduardo Grossi
Published: January 2021

O artigo pretende analisar a possibilidade de ser realizada uma interpretação extensiva do artigo 57, II, da Lei 8.666/93, possibilitando a prorrogação de vigência dos contratos administrativos cujo objeto seja o fornecimento contínuo de bens. A partir de uma análise do conceito da expressão “contínuo”, trazido pela norma, pretende-se demonstrar que a continuidade que autoriza a prorrogação contratual não deve se limitar apenas aos contratos que envolvam serviços, também deve ser estendida aos contratos de fornecimento de bens, desde que preenchidos certos requisitos. O artigo demonstra a existência de divergência jurisprudencial, especialmente nos Tribunais de Contas do País, o que gera uma certa insegurança aos gestores públicos em aplicar o entendimento aqui apresentado, mesmo em situações onde haveria inequívoca busca do interesse público. Afirma-se que, por meio dessa interpretação, é possível gerar relevantes consequências de nível financeiro, logístico, operacional e patrimonial aos processos de compras públicas de insumos em diversos setores essenciais às políticas públicas. Dessa forma, o estudo analisa situações concretas e específicas que ilustram a necessidade de ser dada, dentro de certas condições, uma interpretação extensiva à prorrogação de vigência dos contratos administrativos que envolvam o fornecimento de bens contínuos. Por fim, o artigo aborda a pertinência de tal discussão no âmbito do Projeto de Lei 6.817/2017, que institui normas para licitações e contratos da Administração Pública e revoga a Lei 8.666/93, demonstrando que a discussão acerca dos contratos de fornecimento continuado de bens já está sendo tratada no âmbito do Poder Legislativo.
Effects of vitamin E, methylprednisolone and nedocromil sodium on healing of rats with experimentally created intraabdominal adhesions
Authors: Pinar Hasan , Dincer Mürşit , Ilhan Yavuz Selim
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Intraabdominal adhesions are a condition that can occur after many surgical procedures and may cause complications in a spectrum ranging from simple abdominal pain to ileus. For years, efforts have been made to prevent this complication. In this experimental study, the effects of methylprednisolone, vitamin E and nedocromil sodium on the improvement of intraabdominal adhesions in rats were investigated.

Material and methods

Twenty Wistar Albino rats weighing 280 to 330 g were divided into four equal groups. 5 ml of 0.9% NaCl was given to the control group, 5 ml of methylprednisolone was given to group 2, 5 ml of vitamin E to group 3 and 5 ml of nedocromil sodium to group 4 were given intraabdominally. On the 14th postoperative day, all rats were sacrificed and re-laparotomy was performed. Intraabdominal adhesions were scored according to the Nair classification.

Results

When the groups were compared dyadically, the difference between group 1 and group 2 was found to be statistically significant (p = 0.011). The difference between group 1 and group 3 was statistically significant (p = 0.011). The difference between group 1 and group 4 was statistically significant (p = 0.007). There was no statistically significant difference between group 2 and group 3, and group 2 and group 4, and group 3 and group 4 (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

As a result, methylprednisolone, vitamin E and nedocromil sodium have been shown to have a healing effect on adhesions.
Meteorosensitivity as a mediator between affective temperaments and insomnia among women
Authors: Oniszczenko Włodzimierz
Published: January 2021

Background

The main purpose of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the associations between affective temperaments and insomnia symptoms in women and to examine meteorosensitivity as a mediator in this relationship.

Participants and procedure

For this study, 446 healthy women were recruited from a nonclinical population via an online recruitment platform. The participants’ ages ranged from 18 to 65 years (M = 29.67, SD = 8.39). The Polish version of the Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego Autoquestionnaire was used to assess affective temperaments (depressive, cyclothymic, hyperthymic, irritable and anxious). Meteorosensitivity was assessed through the Polish adaptation of the METEO-Q questionnaire. Insomnia was evaluated by the Athens Insomnia Scale.

Results

Positive correlations with insomnia were found for meteorosensitivity, depressive, cyclothymic, irritable, and anxious temperaments, while insomnia negatively correlated with hyperthymic temperament. Meteorosensitivity showed positive correlations with depressive, cyclothymic, irritable, and anxious temperaments. No correlation between me-teorosensitivity and hyperthymic temperament was found in the studied group. Based on the regression coefficients, meteorosensitivity, cyclothymic temperament and anxious temperament were found to be significant predictors of insomnia. Mediation analyses indicated that cyclothymic and anxious temperaments affected insomnia symptoms both directly and indirectly through meteorosensitivity as a mediator.

Conclusions

The results indicated a significant relationship between affective temperaments and insomnia symptoms, including the role of meteorosensitivity dimension as a mediator. These findings suggest that mood-related affective temper-aments can also be associated with meteorosensitivity and jointly affect the level of insomnia symptoms in women.
The relationship between personality, self-esteem, emotional intelligence, and cultural intelligence. A military context
Authors: Piotrowski Andrzej , Martinská Mária , Boe Ole , Rawat Samir , Deshpande Abhijit
Published: January 2021

Background

An increasing number of migrants in almost all culturally homogeneous countries poses a significant societal challenge. The current research aims to explore the relationship of personality traits, self-esteem, and emotional intelligence with cultural intelli-gence.

Participants and procedure

Five studies were carried out using the Cultural Intelligence Scale (CSQ) together with additional measures. In Study 1 (N = 145), participants from Slovakia (n = 74) and Poland (n = 71) completed the CSQ and the Mini International Personality Item Pool Scales. In Study 2 (N = 138) and 3 (N = 129), the participants completed the CSQ and selected subscales from the Interna-tional Personality Item Pool – 16 Personality Factor Questionnaire. The CSQ and the Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire were used in Study 4 (N = 74); and the CSQ and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale were used in Study 5 (N = 91).

Results

Cultural intelligence was most strongly related to extraversion in the Slovak sample and with intellect in the Polish sample. A relationship of gregariousness, friendliness, and sensitivity, but not warmth, distrust, and reserve with the individual factors of cultural intelligence was also observed in the Polish sample. Emotional intelligence was related to the metacognitive, motivation-al, and behavioral factors of cultural intelligence, while self-esteem was related only to the motivational factor.

Conclusions

Personality traits are invariably related to individual factors of cultural intelligence. These relations assume varying patterns in Polish and Slovak individuals. Some factors of cultural intelligence are related to emotional intelligence and self-esteem. No differences were found in terms of cultural intelligence between cadets and civil students.
Predictive risk factors for post-traumatic stress symptoms among nurses during the Italian acute COVID-19 outbreak
Authors: Ranieri Jessica , Guerra Federica , Giacomo Dina
Published: January 2021

Background

The aim of the study was to investigate the posttraumatic stress disorder risk in nurses, detecting the relation-ship between distress experience and personality dimensions in the Italian acute COVID-19 outbreak. The study is an observational study conducted in March 2020.

Participants and procedure

Mental screening was carried out in the Laboratory of Clinical Psychology on N = 36 nurses in the age range 22-64 years (M = 37.30, SD = 12.60). 76.3% were working in nursing care with confirmed COVID-19 patients; 47.4% of nurses worked in a high COVID-19 rate environment, whereas 52.6% worked in a low COVID-19 rate environment.

Results

The results confirm relation between anxiety and peritraumatic dissociation and posttraumatic stress; also anx-iety is positively correlated with the agreeableness variable. Our finding was obtained in an acute Italian COVID-19 outbreak and measured and quantified the psychological response of nurses in terms of anxiety as an early reaction for emotional distress and high risk for posttraumatic stress disorders; the personality dimen-sions did not mediate the emotional distress or the probable risk for posttraumatic stress disorder. Nurses ap-peared to be exposed to mental distress and needed help.

Conclusions

The results evidenced the need to carry out a mental health program for health workers (especially nursing professionals).
Fear of COVID-19 as a buffer in the relationship between perceived stress and life satisfaction in the Polish population at the beginning of the global pandemic
Authors: Dymecka Joanna , Gerymski Rafał , Machnik-Czerwik Anna
Published: January 2021

Background

COVID-19 is a significant threat to human life and health. It makes people experience fear, stress, anxiety and mood disor-ders, which have a negative impact on their psychological well-being. The aim of the study was to determine the relation-ship between fear of COVID-19, perceived stress, and life satisfaction during the coronavirus pandemic.

Participants and procedure

907 Polish people (522 women and 385 men) participated in this study. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FOC-6) and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) were used in the study.

Results

Fear of COVID-19 and perceived stress were positively correlated with each other and both negatively related to life satis-faction. Moderation analysis showed that fear of COVID-19 acted as a buffer between perceived stress and life satisfaction – people with a high level of fear of COVID-19 and perceived stress had greater life satisfaction than those with high levels of stress but low levels of fear of COVID-19.

Conclusions

During the COVID-19 pandemic, people experience significant stress and fear of infection, which negatively affect their life satisfaction. It can be assumed that during a global pandemic, most stressors are not directly linked to the risk of infection. Loss of job, isolation, lack of social support, or a total change in lifestyle may be more threatening to the well-being than the risk of infection, which many people do not consider as dangerous. Therefore, it can be assumed that people who expe-rience a strong fear of COVID-19 may perceive inconveniences resulting from restrictions as less oppressive than people who do not feel fear.
Mediating role of corporate volunteering between entrepreneurial attitude and work engagement
Authors: Ochnik Dominika
Published: January 2021

Background

Work engagement and corporate volunteering attract significant interest among researchers. The entrepreneur-ial attitude is missing in research among diverse characteristics of employees predicting work engagement. The aim of the study is to fill this gap by verifying the model of the mediating role of corporate volunteering (work characteristics) between the entrepreneurial attitude (employee characteristics) and work engagement.

Participants and procedure

Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-17), an abridged version of the Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation questionnaire (EAO), the Scale of Corporate Volunteering, and the Scale of Satisfaction with Financial Situation were applied in the study. The sample consisted of 111 employees of the public (27%) and business sectors (73%). The sample consisted of 42% (n = 47) women and 58% (n = 64) men aged from 23 to 61 years.

Results

The model of work engagement was successfully verified. The entrepreneurial attitude proved to be a strong predictor of work engagement and corporate volunteering. Corporate volunteering plays a mediating role be-tween the entrepreneurial attitude and work engagement. Seniority and age, unlike in global studies, correlated negatively with corporate volunteering. Public sector employees were less engaged in work (lower Vigor and Absorption). However, their dedication to work was at the same level as employees in the business sector.

Conclusions

Work enhanced with corporate volunteering leads to stronger work engagement, and thus to a psychologically healthier workplace. Measurement of the entrepreneurial attitude can be applied in the employee selection process as a predictor of work engagement.
Short Sexual Well-Being Scale – a cross-sectional validation among transgender and cisgender people
Authors: Gerymski Rafał
Published: January 2021

Background

Sexual well-being is often mistakenly operationalized simply as sexual satisfaction. The concept of sexual well-being has been often used as an umbrella term for positive aspects of sexuality, apart from its negative spheres. A new concept of sexual well-being was proposed in line with the World Health Organization (WHO) definition of sexual health. The definition tried to enrich the concept of sexual well-being, but it did not solve the problem of its operationalization. The aim of this study was to verify the psychometric properties of the new scale measuring the concept of sexual well-being.

Participants and procedure

Two separate studies were conducted for the psychometric validation of the Short Sexual Well-Being Scale (SSWBS). This was because the first study on a group of transgender people was characterized by a smaller than recommended sample for confirmatory factor analysis. On this basis, a second study was conducted on a group of cisgender people. The study on a sample of transgender people (N = 111) verified the psychometric properties of the 4-point version of the scale. In the study on the cisgender sample (N = 211), it was decided to verify the psychometric properties of the 7-point version of the scale and verify whether a bigger response scale would have a positive effect on the reliability of the questionnaire.

Results

The confirmatory factor analysis, reliability analysis using alpha and total omega coefficients, and two measures of validity (content and criterion validity) were applied. The results indicated that the SSWBS had good psychometric properties.

Conclusions

Overall, the presented scale shows good psychometric properties. Both versions of the scale can be used in the quantitative research, but it is recommended to use the 7-point version of the scale. The SSWBS is one of the first questionnaires constructed in accordance with the sexual well-being concept.
Utility of brain parenchyma density measurement and computed tomography perfusion imaging in predicting brain death
Authors: Akdogan Asli I. , Sahin Hilal , Pekcevik Yeliz , Uluer Hatice
Published: January 2021

Introduction

To assess the utility of brain parenchyma density measurement on unenhanced computed tomography (CT) in predicting brain death (BD), in order to evaluate the added value of CT perfusion (CTP).

Material and methods

A total of 77 patients who were clinically diagnosed as BD and had both CT angiography (CTA) and CTP imaging in the same session were retrospectively reviewed. On unenhanced phase of CTA, density measu­rement was performed from 23 regions of interests (ROIs) which were located in the following areas: level of basal ganglia (caudate nucleus, putamen, corpus callosum, posterior limb of internal capsule), level of brainstem, grey- white matters on levels of centrum semiovale (CS), high convexity (HC), and cerebellum. CTP images were evaluated qualitatively and independently. Grey matter (GM), white matter (WM), density, and GM/WM density ratio of BD patients were compared with control subjects.

Results

Comparing with the normal control group, the GM and WM density at each level and GM/WM density ratio of CS, HC, and cerebellum level were significantly lower in brain-dead patients (p = 0.019 for HC-WM, p < 0.001 for other areas). Using ROC analysis, the highest value of area under curve (AUC) for the GM/WM density ratio was found at the HC level (AUC = 0.907). The sensitivity of the GM/WM density ratio at the HC level was found to be 90% when the cut-off value of 1.25 was identified. Evaluating the GM/WM density ratio together with the CTP results increased the sensitivity further to 98%.

Conclusions

The GM/WM density ratio at the HC level on unenhanced CT may be a useful finding to predict BD. Also, the addition of CTP increases the sensitivity of this method.
Hyperglycemia and Its Impact on Length of Stay in Patients Hospitalized with Community-Acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Nazeer Muhammad , Afzal Muhammad Naeem , Raza Tabish , Rasheed Sidra , Suleman Tariq , Arif Nadeem Muhammad
Published: January 2021

Objectives: 1. To determine the frequency of hyperglycemia in hospitalized patients with community acquired pneumonia 2. To compare mean hospital stay in patients with and without hyperglycemia admitted with CAP. Methods: It was a descriptive, case series done at Department of Medicine, Services Hospital, Lahore, in 2016. With non-probability, consecutive sampling technique a sample size of 150 cases is calculated with 95% confidence level, 8% margin of error and talking expected percentage of hyperglycemia as 38.2% in hospitalized patients with community acquired pneumonia. Results: Out of total 150 cases of CAP there were 85 (56.67%) males with mean age of 47.61±14.66 years. Hyperglycemia was seen in 46 (30.67%) patients with CAP. There was equal distribution of hyperglycemia with respect to gender and age groups with p= 0.56 and 0.24 respectively. Hyperglycemia was more in those having temperature more than 101oF however this difference was not significant with p= 0.32. There was significant difference seen in terms of length of hospital stay,4.07±1.51 days in hyperglycemic and 2.85±1.31 days in normoglycemics with p= 0.001. The length of hospital stay was near significant high in males,4.31±1.56 days (p= 0.08), while non -significant in females with p= 0.30. There was no significant difference in terms of age groups in cases with or without hyperglycemia with p= 0.56 and 0.78. The length of hospital stay was longer in those that had temperature more than 101oF,4.29±1.26 days with hyperglycemia as compared to 2.88±1.34 days in normoglycemics with p= 0.13. Conclusion: Community acquired pneumonia is an important infectious health concern. It is associated with high blood glucose and the length of hospital stay is found significantly high in cases of hyperglycemia. Key words: Community acquired pneumonia, Hyperglycemia, hospital stay
Iron Deficiency Anemia & Adverse Events After ST Elevation Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Majeed Nighat , Rizwan Muhammad , Samreen Zartashia
Published: January 2021

Objectives: Study objective was to look for the frequency of iron deficiency in ischemic heart disease patients presenting with acute ST elevation myocardial infarction and to see the association of adverse coronary events with iron deficiency among these patients Methods: It was a cross-sectional study conducted on three hundred and seventeen patients at coronary care unit/Medical unit of services hospital Lahore. Serum ferritin, iron, and transferrin were measured by using automated immunoassays in patient admitted with acute myocardial infarction and adverse events developed after myocardial were recorded at 5th day of admission. Frequency of iron deficiency anemia was determined in these patients. Adverse events after acute myocardial infarction such as development of recurrent MI, unstable angina, arrhythmias, pericarditis, (EF <50%), adverse outcomes in the form of mechanical complications (ventricular septal defect or mitral regurgitation, and significant impairment of left ventricular functions, stroke and death rate was studied in these patients. Chi-square test was used to see association of iron deficiency anemia with adverse events developed after myocardial infarction. Results: Frequency of iron deficiency was 82% among patients suffering from acute myocardial infarction. There was significant association of anemia with Post myocardial infarction heart failure (P=0.006), Low EF <50 %( P=0.00), increased mortality (0.076) and pericarditis (P= 0.069).Iron deficiency was associated with of adverse outcomes after myocardial infarction. Conclusion: Increased frequency of iron deficiency anemia was recorded in patients suffering from acute myocardial infarction and it was significantly associated with the post myocardial infarction adverse events. Keywords: Iron deficiency anemia, Acute myocardial infarction, Adverse outcomes
Postpartum Psychiatric disorders – a neglected issue
Authors: Sadaqat Ameelia , Afzal Rabia , Mazhar Nauman , Mairaj Naila , Malik Sadaf , Butt Aysha
Published: January 2021

Objective: To find out psychiatric morbidity among females presenting during postpartum period at a tertiary care hospital in Lahore.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was done in Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of Central Park Teaching Hospital, Lahore. One Hundred women presenting in peripartum period were included in the study, using purposive sampling technique. After an informed consent participant’s bio data was recorded. A structured proforma was used for psychiatric evaluation of the cases, which contained social and demographic details along with questions from Edinburgh postnatal depression scale. Psychiatric diagnosis was made according to DSM-5. Severity of illness was assessed using Hamilton rating scale for depression and Hamilton anxiety rating scale.
Results: Postpartum follow up of 100 females revealed that 18% developed psychiatric morbidity. 13 had major depressive disorder and 5 females had anxiety disorder. There was no case of puerperal psychosis in any of the females postpartum in this study. Psychiatric morbidity and age group between 18-25 years (20.6%) showed significant correlation. Similarly, higher incidence of psychiatric morbidity was observed in women living in nuclear household (24.1%).
Conclusion: Psychiatric morbidities are common among females during postpartum period. Major depression is the commonest one. Therefore assessment for depression should be included in routine obstetric follow-ups.
Bacteriological Profile and Antibiotic Sensitivity Pattern in Infected Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Zia Afshan
Published: January 2021

Objectives: To identify the common bacterial pathogens responsible for infection in diabetic foot ulcer and their sensitivity pattern to different antibiotics. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted from 24th June 2019 to 27th December 2019 at Services Institute of Medical Sciences Lahore. Specimens of discharge from diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) were received from Diabetes Management Centre (DMC). Cultures were put up and bacteria isolated were identified by standard methods. Antibiotic sensitivity was determined by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Results: Samples from DFU of 50 patients were processed. Thirty-six (72%) samples were from males and 14(28%) were from females; mean age of patients was 53±9.5 years. Forty-nine (98%) patients had unsatisfactory glycemic control. Forty three (86%) samples were growth positive while 07(14%) were bacteriologically sterile. Monomicrobial infection was observed in 38 (76%) cases while polymicrobial infection was seen in 12 cases (24%). The most common isolates were Staphylococcus aureus 14(28%), Pseudomonas species 11 (22%) and Proteus species 10 (20%). Forty three percent of Staphylococcus aureus, were methicillin resistant (MRSA). All MRSA remained sensitive to vancomycin and linezolid. In Pseudomonas species, resistance to third generation cephalosporins, ceftazidime , was 27%, while resistance to imipenem was seen in 3 (9%) of isolates. In Proteus species, resistance to third generation cephalosporins was 90% while to imipenem resistance was 60%. Resistance to commonly prescribed quinolones was more than 70% among all the bacterial isolates. Conclusions: Common Gram positive and Gram negative organisms responsible for infection in DFU were Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas species and Proteus species. The isolates were multi-drug resistant (MDR). Resistance to antibiotics used as empiric therapy was high. Keywords: Diabetic foot ulcer, antibiotic resistance, empiric therapy
Adaptation Of Oral Hygiene Habits In Dental Professionals: A Kap Study
Authors: William Hanan , Munir Deema , Arshad Rabia , William Shazel
Published: January 2021

Objective: The present survey was carried out to assess the practice and perception of dental professionals towards their own dental care. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried from May 2019 to April 2020, in Altamash Institute of Dental Medicine, Karachi. Ethical approval was obtained from institutional review board. A self- administered questionnaire was developed comprising of 20 questions among the dental personnel (Staff and BDS students) of Altamash Institute of Dental Medicine Karachi, Pakistan, to assess their practice and care, regarding their own oral hygiene. Responses were collected through both, the hard copy and an online google form link. Data was evaluated for 176 complete forms. For all the asked questions, a comparison was also made between male and female candidates, and between their academic levels. For all the variable as categorical values, percentages were tabulated using SPSS 21. Results: The results indicated that not all the dental professionals had their same practice to maintain oral hygiene. Not all of them were following the proper theoretical knowledge. From their choices of toothpastes to their habits of flossing and using additional aids for maintaining oral hygiene, majority factors varied individually in spite of the fact that there is well-awareness of consequences of negligence. Conclusion: It was found that not all the dental practitioners follow the proper guidelines to maintain oral hygiene, and not all of them follow the instructions they give to their patients. Key Words: Oral Hygiene, Dental Professionals, Tooth Paste, Mouth Wash, Dentistry, Oral Hygiene Maintenance, Dental practitioners.