bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Joseph Paul-Boncour à Genève : une pratique de l’internationalisme
Authors: Boisdron Matthieu
Published: June 2021

Dans la seconde moitié des années 1920, et jusqu’à la veille de la Seconde Guerre mondiale, Joseph Paul-Boncour occupe une place importante au sein de la délégation française auprès de la Société des nations. L’étude du profil, de la trajectoire et des modalités d’action de ce responsable politique relativement oublié permet d’éclairer les spécificités propres à l’internationalisme tel qu’il se conçoit et se pratique dans le milieu genevois.
Résilience économique et disparité territoriale
Authors: Talandier Magali , Calixte Yatina
Published: June 2021

La crise économique de 2008 a été l’une des plus sévères que l’Europe ait connu jusque-là. L’impact de la crise a été extrêmement variable d’une région à l’autre au niveau européen, questionnant les enjeux de solidarité et de cohésion territoriale. Ainsi, alors qu’une nouvelle crise économique émerge suite à la pandémie de la Covid-19, tous les territoires n’ont pas encore retrouvé leurs niveaux d’emplois de 2007. Dans ce contexte, l’article interroge la capacité de résilience économique des territoires, à l’échelle des intercommunalités de France métropolitaine. Le fait de disposer de dix années d’observation fine des variations de l’emploi privé nous permet de comparer l’intensité des pertes, puis les capacités de rebond, ainsi que d’introduire la temporalité de ces effets à travers la notion de cycle de résilience. Les résultats montrent la diversité des trajectoires économiques et les disparités territoriales en termes de résilience, questionnant dès lors les possibles impacts spatiaux de la crise actuelle.
L’aventure cartésienne de la substance. « Ego autem substantia » dans l’ordre des raisons
Authors: Dubouclez Olivier
Published: June 2021

On a souvent souligné que l’usage du concept de substance était problématique dans les Méditations , préférant l’exposé plus rigoureux des Principia . À l’encontre de cette interprétation, cet article affirme que le traitement analytique de la substance est non seulement conforme à l’ordre des raisons, mais que s’y développe une aventure révélatrice : si la réflexion sur l’ ego et la cogitatio tend à faire de celui-ci une quasi substance, la formule « ego autem substantia » accomplit dans la Troisième Méditation une substantialisation qui n’est que transitoire. Car cette substantialisation, fondée sur la présomption de l’ ego se concevant comme author , est aussitôt contestée à la lumière de la relation que l’ ego entretient au Dieu infini.
« Aimez ce que jamais on ne verra deux fois » ?
Authors: Casta Isabelle Rachel
Published: June 2021

La multiplication actuelle des surfaces d’écran, l’accès facilité aux rediffusions en tout genre et nos développements personnels modifient anthropologiquement le rapport à l’image et la consommation du film. De plus, l’opportunité la plus fréquente qui se présente de revoir non pas un film entier, mais un extrait, réside dans l’opération englobant de nombreuses productions où l’on assiste, à travers le regard d’un personnage, à la projection d’un autre film, généralement légitimé par l’histoire de la critique cultivée. Alors « revoir » signifie parfois dire adieu aux illusions de l’adolescence, ou tout simplement se donner les moyens de mieux comprendre la complexité d’une production.
Performance analysis and system optimization of an energy-saving mechanism in cloud computing with correlated traffic
Authors: Yan Xuena , Jin Shunfu , Yue Wuyi , Takahashi Yutaka
Published: June 2021

Energy consumption is becoming a significant part of overall operational cost in cloud data centers. For the purpose of satisfying the Service Level Agreement (SLA) of cloud users while enhancing the energy efficiency in cloud computing systems, in this paper we propose an energy-saving mechanism with a sleep mode. Taking into consideration the traffic's correlation and the stochastical behavior of data arrival requests in a random cloud environment with the proposed energy-saving mechanism, we model the system as a MAP/M/\begin{document}$ N $\end{document}/\begin{document}$ N $\end{document}+\begin{document}$ K $\end{document} queue with a synchronous multi-vacation. Then, we present a theoretical basis for analyzing and evaluating the system performance by taking a state transition rate matrix in the steady state. Next, we investigate the change trends for the energy saving rate of the system and the average latency of tasks by carrying out numerical experiments. Moreover, we give a
El existencialismo personalista de Carmen Laforet: La mujer nueva surgida de la trilogía iniciada en Nada
Authors: Varela Olea M.ª Ángeles
Published: June 2021

Analizamos y proponemos una lectura de las tres novelas laforetianas más importantes –Nada, La isla y los demonios y La mujer nueva– como una trilogía existencial de facto; no planificada, pero resultado de su particular autobiografismo. Así interpretadas, se resuelven algunas cuestiones planteadas por la crítica y se da desenlace personalista a este bildungsroman. La reciente publicación del epistolario entre Carmen Laforet y Elena Fortún (2017) aporta claves interpretativas imprescindibles en este sentido y revela la obra del filósofo ruso Nicolai Berdiaev como inspiradora de la intención de Laforet de «purificar» el existencialismo, dándole una respuesta novelística adscrita a planteamientos personalistas.
Le procès pénal de l’amiante n’aura pas lieu
Authors: Pillayre Héloïse
Published: June 2021

Cet article s’intéresse aux répercussions de l’éternel ajournement du procès pénal de l’amiante sur le mouvement des victimes de l’amiante. Il vise à expliquer pourquoi, malgré les indéniables succès obtenus par la principale association de victimes – la création d’un fonds d’indemnisation, la redéfinition de la notion de faute inexcusable de l’employeur – la frustration engendrée par l’échec de la pénalisation a été si importante qu’elle a provoqué la scission de cette dernière. L’article explique cette scission par la diversité des finalités attribuées au procès pénal dans l’association. Les porte-parole de l’association nationale perçoivent le procès pénal d’abord comme un dispositif d’investigation, qui puisse mettre en lumière la dimension systémique de l’affaire et notamment la responsabilité des pouvoirs publics, afin de prévenir d’autres scandales. Les dirigeants de certaines associations locales appréhendent le procès avant tout comme un dispositif de sanction et sont plus attachés à vouloir condamner individuellement les employeurs à des peines de prison. Des conflits sont alors survenus dans l’association portant sur la hiérarchisation de ces finalités. L’article encourage ainsi à mieux différencier les domaines du droit lorsque l’on s’interroge sur les relations entre droit et mouvements sociaux.
Energy Saving Preparation and Evaluation of a Novel Polycarboxylate Superplasticizer
Authors: Liu Xiao , Song Xiao Fei , Luo Qi Feng , Xia Chun Lei , Zheng Yun Sheng , Wang Zi Ming , Cui Su Ping
Published: June 2021

A novel polycarboxylate superplasticizer (PCE) with energy saving preparation was elaborately designed and synthesized by using acrylic acid (AA), hydroxypropyl acrylate (HPA) and isopentenyl polyethylene glycol (IPEG) as monomers. To investigate the effects of the preparation method on the effectiveness of PCE, the PCEs were prepared from energy-saving method and common method respectively, and the hydration heat evolutions of the cement pastes containing these PCEs were comparatively probed. Furthermore, the working mechanisms of the PCEs by different preparations were identified via adsorption behavior, adsorption kinetic and Zeta potential of the PCE on cement surfaces. The results showed that, this novel PCE prepared in an energy saving manner can significantly prolong the hydration process and present a stronger adsorption capacity. In addition, the adsorption of this PCE on cement surface exhibited a characteristic of pseudo first order kinetic equation model. The evaluation in energy conservation showed that, this energy saving preparation can save 1.548×104 kJ per 10 ton production. The aim of this study is to provide a new avenue to synthesize a PCE with economical method which achieves energy-saving preparation. Due to the indispensable application in construction industry, the innovations from this study contribute to the low energy-consumption production and high eco-effectiveness of the novel PCE, which has potential applications in low-emission building materials.
Microstructure Evolution of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu Alloy with Erbium during Homogenization
Authors: Tian Zheng Jie , Li Bo Long , Zhang Bo Hou , Qi Peng , Nie Zuo Ren
Published: June 2021

The microstructure evolution of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy with erbium was studied by optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) during homogenization process. The results showed that there were serious component segregation in the as-cast structure of the alloy, mainly composed of T(AlZnMgCu) , S(Al2CuMg) and a small amount of Al8Cu4Er and Al7Cu2Fe. The overheating temperature of the alloy was 482.5 °C. After homogenized at 470 °C for 24 h, the dissolution of T(AlZnMgCu) phase and S(Al2CuMg) phase reached to a balance, but the residual Al8Cu4Er phase could not be dissolved completely. Compared with single-stage homogenization, Al3(Er,Zr) dispersion phase with smaller grain size and more uniform distribution can be obtained after two stage homogenization process of 400 °C for 8 h followed by 470 °C for 24 h. By comparing the residue of non-equilibrium eutectic phase, two-stage homogenization is the best.
Low Cycle Fatigue Properties of FGH720Li Superalloy
Authors: Peng Zi Chao , Sheng Jun Ying , Wang Xu Qing , Tang Yue
Published: June 2021

Low cycle fatigue (LCF) properties of a powder metallurgy(PM) nickel base superalloy FGH720Li were systematically studied in this work, including smooth LCF and notched LCF tested at various temperatures and different stress. The relationship between the fatigue life and applied stress was analyzed both for smooth fatigue and notch fatigue tests. The effects of loading frequency and stress ratio on LCF behavior were also studied. As an important influencing factor of the fatigue life in powder metallurgy superalloy, the effect of inclusions on LCF life was also investigated. The results showed that the fatigue properties of FGH720Li alloy was excellent, when tested at the temperature of 450°C and applied stress of 1230MPa, the fatigue life could exceed 5×104 cycles. When tested at 650°C and 1150MPa, the average fatigue life was still beyond 2×105 cycles.
Microstructure Evolution of near α Titanium Alloy during Multi-Step Thermomechanical Deformation Process
Authors: Liu Qing Shan , Li Bo Long , Wang Tong Bo , Wang Cong Cong , Qi Peng , Nie Zuo Ren
Published: June 2021

A new type of near α high temperature titanium alloy of Ti-Al-Sn-Zr-Mo-Si-Er was studied. The samples with different primary α phase content were prepared by solid solution at 950 °C/1 h—1010 °C/1 h. The multi-step hot compression experiments were carried out by Gleeble-3500 in a sequence of upper region of α + β phase, then followed by lower region of α + β phase. The effects of primary α phase content and deformation temperature on the microstructure of the alloy were studied by means of true stress-strain curve and optical microscope. The results show that the content of primary α phase gradually decreases from 45.4% at 950°C to 0% at 1010°C. As the deformation temperature decreases from 940°C to 900°C, the content of α phase increases gradually from 65% to 94%, which is changed from dynamic recrystallization to deformed structure elongated along RD direction. It is found that the arrangement of α phase along RD direction is the longest at 920°C. With the increase of the deformation temperature in the multi-step high temperature region from 970°C to 990°C, the width of deformed α phase decreases from 3.64 μm at 970°C to 2.71 μm at 990°C. The optimized microstructure is composed of 20% primary α phase arranged along RD direction. This process has a certain potential in the process of hot deformation of the alloy. Key words: high temperature titanium alloy, primary α phase, multi-step hot deformation
Effect of Heat Treatment Process on Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of S280
Authors: Zhang Ye Qin , Zhong Ping , Li Huan Feng , Zhang Wen Qiang
Published: June 2021

The effect of solution temperature and aging temperature on mechanical properties and microstructure of the new ultrahigh strength stainless steel S280 was investigated by heat treatment process experiment. The results showed that the optimal heat treatment process was as follows: heating to 1080 °C，holding for a hour, and quenching in oil; cooling to -73 °C, holding for 2 hour, and warming in air to room temperature; heating to 540~550 °C, holding for 4 hour, and cooling in air. Choosing this heat treatment process, the steel can get good coordination between strength and toughness. Analyzed by HREM, the steel had desirable microstructures, which were fine lath martensite matrix with high density dislocation and finely dispersed precipitate strengthening phase, and film-like reversed austenite precipitated from the boundary of martensite.
Integrity Analysis of Casing Premium Connection under High Compression Load
Authors: Wang Peng , Xie Jun Feng , Zheng You Cheng , Hu Fang Ting , Ji Nan
Published: June 2021

With the increasingly harsh conditions of complex oil and gas wells such as high-temperature and high-pressure deep wells and long-distance horizontal well, the integrity of casing string puts forward higher requirements for compression performance of premium thread connections. The requirements of high compression resistance of connection is complicated, including ensuring the integrity of structure and sealability for thread at the same time under high compression load being equal to the bearing capacity of casing body, and considering the structural fatigue, environmental fracture and seal failure caused by the weakening of thread bearing performance under cyclic load. Based on the failure cases of some casing connections, laboratory tests and finite element analysis results, this paper discusses the key technical points in the above mentioned problems, and provides the suggestions for the performance optimization of high-performance casing premium connections based on failure prevention.
Fracture Failure Analysis of the Blowout Preventer Ram in an Oilfield
Authors: Cong Shen , Fan Zhi Hai , Li Dong Feng , Tong Ke , Ji Nan
Published: June 2021

This paper gives a thorough investigation on the fracture failure of the blowout preventer (BOP) ram. Through appearance inspection, magnetic powder inspection, physicochemical inspection, metallographic inspection and scanning electron microscope (SEM), the main fracture reason of the BOP ram is that there was some original cracks in the BOP ram before fracture, during the service process the bop ram is subjected to impact load, therefore brittle fracture occurs due to the high brittleness of the gate material (which is caused by large internal structure) and low anti-crack propagation ability. Key words: Blowout preventer (BOP) ram; Fatigue break; Brittle fracture; Failure analysis
Influence of Banded Structure on the Properties of Petroleum Pipe Steel and its Rating Analysis Method
Authors: Tong Ke , Liu Qing , Zhu Bo , Cong Shen , Kang Xu Ying
Published: June 2021

The influence of banded structure on the performance of petroleum pipe was introduced firstly, and the characteristics and application scope of different rating methods of banded structure studied, and the banded structure in different specimens rated using this standards/methods. The banded structure rating of petroleum pipe steel requires proper and reasonable standards/methods for different microstructures. The current standards/methods could not integrate standard diagram comparison with calculation, and can not cover the banded structure rating for all pipeline steel microstructures. Therefore, in order to satisfy the inspection needs of petroleum pipe steel, a new rating standard is required to be established.
Abrasion Resistance and Corrosion Resistance of Chromium-Free Fingerprint-Resistant Zn and Zn-Al-Mg Coating Cold-Rolled Steel Sheets
Authors: Huang Yan , Song Ren Bo , Wei Huan Jun , Zhang Zhe Rui , Yang Li Fang
Published: June 2021

The wear resistance and corrosion resistance of chromium-free fingerprint-resistant pure zinc and Zn-Al-Mg coated cold-rolled steel sheets were studied by micro-friction wear experiments and neutral salt spray experiments. Two products are worn for a long time with a large load (5N load, 50 times abrasion), the depth of wear zone of Zn-Al-Mg coating product is 9% shallower than that of pure zinc coating product, and the width of wear zone is 15.4% smaller. Both products still meet the requirements of use after corrosion. The corrosion resistance of two products after degreasing treatment was significantly reduced. The Mg and Al in the Zn-Al-Mg coating can hinder the progress of corrosion, so it has better corrosion resistance.
Weld Joint of Tantalum Sheet by Tungsten Inert Gas Welding
Authors: Chen Yan Fei , Zhang Jin Xiang , Zhu Zheng Qiang
Published: June 2021

The 0.6 mm tantalum sheet was welded under argon atmosphere by Tungsten Inert Gas Welding (TIG) in order to obtain a welded joint with high-quality and high-reliability. Metalloscope, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) were applied to analyze the joint. The results showed that the grain size of the base metal which affected by the welding heat remained the original size or enlarged slightly to 40-70 μm. What’s more, the weld zone was found to be composed of two components with different oxidation degree. And the distribution of these two components was related to the protection atmosphere of the location. The fusion line of the two tantalum sheets was clear which means high welding quality.
Effect of Raw Material Purity on Structure and Properties of Metallic Glasses
Authors: Ding Rui Xian , Kou Sheng Zhong , Fan Jian Jun , Jiang Ye
Published: June 2021

Zirconium base metallic glasses [Zr0.73(Cu0.59Ni0.41)0.27]87Al13 was fabricated by industrial zirconium with low purity and high purity zirconium according to different quality ratios in order to study the effect of raw material purity on the structure and properties of metallic glasses. The results showed that the complete metallic glasses was failed to be fabricate with low purity zirconium. And the compression process was typical brittle fracture with low compressive strength and without plastic strain. The glasses forming ability of low purity zirconium metallic glass with different purity was significantly improved after the addition of yttrium element. The compression experiments showed that the compressive strength and plasticity of metallic glasses were improved, and the microhardness was also increased. It indicates that yttrium element can eliminate the adverse effect of impurity in low purity zirconium on the glasses forming ability of the alloy and improve the structural properties of the metallic glasses.
High Pressure Sintering of Silicon Carbide with Mg-Cr3C2 Composite Additive
Authors: Li Jing Kun , Ren Xue Ping , Yan Qiang , Zhang Yan Ling , Hou Hong Liang
Published: June 2021

Porous silicon carbide was sintered at 1300 °C/30 MPa for 2 h with 4 wt.% magnesium alloy and 4 wt.% chromium carbide composite additives. The sintered ceramic presented density of around 92% of the theoretical density. No new phase was observed after sintering. Mg segregates around chromium carbide particles in sintered ceramic. The silicon carbide particles were mainly bonded by melt magnesium alloy and chromium carbide diffused in solid state. The voids existed in the sintered ceramic, but much more fracture occurred in silicon carbide particles during bending due to high bonding strength of sintering necks. Some voids existed in the ceramic, which act as crack sources during fracture.
A Mesoscopic Modelling Framework of Microstructure Evolution and its Application on Thermo-Mechanical Processes
Authors: Xiao Na Min , Sha Ai Xue , Li Xing Wu
Published: June 2021

In present study a quantitative modelling framework based on phase-field method is developed to simulate the microstructure evolution during thermomechanical process, e. g. grain growth, recrystallization, solid phase transformations and their interactions. Two application cases of microstructure evolution are introduced. The first one is the dynamic recrystallization behavior during the hot deformation of stainless steel. The effect of thermo-mechanical parameters including strain, strain rate, and temperature on DRX have been investigated quantitatively. Moreover, the present simulation provided an explanation of the dependence of final recrystallized grain size on initial grain size when it is decreased to a critically small value. This modelling framework is also used to simulate the interaction between the dissolution of precipitates and grain coarsening of matrix in the nickel alloys. The simulation results show that the decreasing dissolution temperature of precipitate slow down the matrix coarsening kinetics obviously. This provides an quantitative tool to predict and control the local microstructure of nickel alloy disk. In summary, the mesoscopic modelling can be used to investigate more kinetic details of microstructure evolution and engineering optimization for thermo-mechanical process.
Deformation Law of Cold Drawing Process of High Strength Bridge Cable Steel
Authors: Yin Xiao Lei , Cheng Jian , Zhao Gang
Published: June 2021

High-strength cable-steel bridge is the “lifeline” of steel structure bridges, which requires high comprehensive mechanical properties, and cold-drawing is the most important process to produce high-strength cable-steel bridge. Therefore, through the ABAQUS platform, a bridge wire drawing model was established, and the simulation analysis on the process of stress strain law and strain path trends for high-strength bridge steel wire from Φ 12.65 mm by seven cold-drawing to Φ 6.90 mm was conducted. The simulation results show that the wire drawing the heart of the main axial deformation, surface and sub-surface of the main axial and radial deformation occurred, with the increase in the number of drawing the road, the overall deformation of the wire was also more obvious non-uniformity. In the single-pass drawing process, the change in the potential relationship of each layer of material was small, and multiple inflection points appeared in the strain path diagram; the change in the seven-pass potential relationship was more drastic, which can basically be regarded as a simple superposition of multiple single-pass pulls.
Prediction of Grain Formation and Defects during Solidification in Single Crystal Superalloy Castings
Authors: Jin Hai Peng , Liu Shi Zhong , Xie Hong Ji , Li Jia Rong
Published: June 2021

Numerical simulation and prediction of grain formation and defects, including the stray grain and high angle orientation deviation during directional solidification process of a single crystal superalloy hollow turbine blade are experimentally conducted by means of commercial software ProCAST and backscattering scanning electron microscope. The results show that the initial nucleation amount at the beginning section of the starter block is 104 of magnitude, and the number of grains decreases gradually with the competitive growth, and the number is about 100 at the spiral of the selector. And the orientation distribution of grains is close to <001> direction, with the orientation deviation between 10° and 15°. Moreover, with the increase of withdrawal rate, the curvature of isoline of liquidus of single crystal blade increases, and the tendency to form stray grains defects increases. The grain with a large deviation from orientation blocks the growth of other grains at the first rotating transition site of the selector, and then gradually grows and solidifies to form the final blade.
Mechanical and Electrical Properties of Elastic-Porous Composite with Cu-Steel Bimetallic Wire Mesh
Authors: Xue Xin , Zhang Wei , Bai Hong Bai
Published: June 2021

An elastic-porous composite with Cu-steel bimetallic wire mesh was proposed to meet the requirements of damping, vibration reduction, and electrical conductivity of aerospace hardware equipment. Firstly, the samples with different weight ratios (Cu/steel) were prepared through special manufacturing processes: composite wire preparing, helical coil encircling, stretching with equal pitch, entangling in an interlocked pattern, and cold stamping. Secondly, the mechanical performances such as stiffness, loss factor, and tangent modulus were characterized by the static compression test. Thirdly, the sensitivity of electrical conductivity to the loading force was examined by mechanical-electrical coupling tests. Finally, the influence of the weight ratio (Cu/steel) on the mechanical and electrical properties was discussed. The results show that the Cu elements can generally improve the damping capacity and reduce the stiffness of the material. The resistance-force curves of specimens show obvious nonlinearity, and the resistance decreases with the increase of compression force. The conductivity of the materials increases with the increasing stiffness and weight ratio according to the resistance-stiffness curves.
Effect of Chemical Corrosion on Properties of SBS Modified Bitumen for Waterproofing Membranes
Authors: Li Jiang Ting , Han Xiao Bin , Mao San Peng , Zheng Gui Tao , Yu Jian Ying
Published: June 2021

SBS modified bitumen membrane used in underground engineering and coastal buildings would be corroded by chemical media, which greatly influenced the service life of waterproofing membranes. In this paper, SBS modified bitumen (MB), SBS modified bitumen with stone powder (MBS) and SBS modified bitumen with talc powder (MBT) were corroded by acidic, alkaline, and saline solutions for different time to evaluated the effect of chemical corrosion on the properties of SBS modified bitumen waterproofing membrane. The mass change ratio, low temperature flexibility, softening point and viscosity of SBS modified bitumen were investigated, and Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to analyze the chemical structural changes of SBS modified bitumen after corrosion. The results showed that the mass of SBS modified bitumen decreased, the low temperature performance decreased, and the softening point increased after corrosion by chemical solutions. The influence of acidic and saline solution was more serious on SBS modified bitumen with fillers, and the properties of MBS has greatest degradation in acidic solution compared with MB and MBT. In alkaline solution, the properties degradation of MBT and MBS was less than that of MB, which indicated that filler could inhibit the alkaline corrosion of SBS modified bitumen. FTIR showed that C=C decreased more in acidic solution, while C=O and S=O of SBS modified bitumen increased significantly after alkaline solution corrosion, which indicated that acidic solution corrosion easily caused SBS degradation, while alkaline solution corrosion was easy to oxidize SBS and bitumen.
Research Progress of Slag Structure and Hydration Activity
Authors: Wang Ya Li , Hu Xi Bo , Yao Yu Han , Cui Su Ping , Wei Qi , Hao Li Wei
Published: June 2021

Slag is widely used as mineral admixtures in cement-based materials by its potential hydration activity. It has the advantage of saving resources and energy, reducing carbon emission, improving the performance of concrete, and plays an increasingly important role in the building materials industry. But the early strength of slag is low, and the industrialization of useful hydration products also need to be activated, so the utilization rate of slag in high grade cement is restricted. The hydration activity of slag depends not only on the content of vitreous in slag, but also on the structure of vitreous slag. To explore slag glass micro composition and structure of its active role, The slag micro-structure was analyzed from the structure levels, and then the factors affecting the activity of slag was evaluated. The potential advantages and disadvantages of some different methods to active slag were discussed such as physical ways, chemical activation method and compound activation way. The existing problems and development direction of improving the activity of slag were summarized , which could provide a valuable reference for the efficient use of slag.
Estimating aquatic invertebrate diversity in the southern Alps using data from Biodiversity Days
Authors: Niedrist Georg , Lösch Birgit , Nagler Magdalena , Rauch Hannes , Vorhauser Samuel , Scotti Alberto , Bottarin Roberta , Alber Renate
Published: June 2021

High biodiversity is a prerequisite for the integrity, stability, and functioning of global aquatic ecosystems, but it is currently subject to anthropogenic threats. Small freshwater bodies with high habitat diversity are essential to sustain regional biodiversity, but species inventory and biodiversity are largely overlooked, especially in mountainous regions. In the Italian Alps, obligate assessments of freshwater biota (e.g., for the European water framework directive, WFD) are usually done in larger rivers or lakes only, which is why many taxa from small freshwater habitats might have been overlooked so far. Here we summarize and discuss the efforts to record aquatic invertebrates within the framework of so-called "Biodiversity Days", organized since 2001 at 13 different sites located across the North Italian province of South Tyrol. These events with voluntary participation of scientists and naturalists from universities and environmental agencies led to the detection of 334 benthic invertebrate taxa in streams and lakes (mostly species or genus level), whereby higher taxa richness was found in streams. The overall hierarchy of species numbers within invertebrate orders or families corresponded to that of other Alpine regions (groups richest in taxa were Chironomidae and Trichoptera) and these Biodiversity Days contributed to biodiversity research of that region in detecting 167 additional taxa. Besides analyzing yearly gains in the regional taxa inventory, we predict that future surveys will lead to new discoveries of aquatic taxa for that province (i.e., current modeling estimates a regional inventory of more than 600 taxa). However, specific surveys in hitherto unconsidered habitats, such as morphologically modified or urban waters, might reveal even more taxa than currently estimated. Besides characterizing the invertebrate fauna of this region and providing a first reference list for future monitoring projects in the same region, this work demonstrates that such Biodiversity Days can contribute to biodiversity research.
Measles outbreak investigation in a highly vaccinated community in the Centre region of Cameroon
Authors: Haddison Eposi C. , Ngwafor Randolph A. , Kagina Benjamin M.
Published: June 2021

Background: Measles remains a threat in many African settings due to sub-optimal routine immunisation and catchup campaigns. The Global Vaccine Action Plan goal to eliminate measles by 2020 remains unmet as several countries reported an increase in cases in 2019. In Cameroon, a measles-rubella vaccination campaign was organised in 2019 to reduce the cohort of susceptible children. However, in 2020, eleven suspected cases of measles were notified in the Sa’a Health District and five were confirmed.Objective: This report summarizes a measles outbreak investigation and contact tracing in a highly vaccinated community residing in the Sa’a Health District of Cameroon. Methods: Outbreak investigations were carried out in the Sa’a, Nlong-Onambele and Nkolmgbana health areas from 18 to 21 February 2020. A register review from December 2019 to February 2020 was carried out in all health facilities of the affected health areas. followed by contact tracing in the community.Results: Thirty households were visited in four neighbourhoods. Six missed Epidemiologically-linked cases were discovered in the community, bringing the total number of suspected and confirmed cases to 17. Thirty-five percent of the cases had not received any measles-containing vaccine; 35% of the cases were aged 5 years or older; 53% had history of travel. Community transmission only occurred in the Sa’a health area through a breakthrough case.Conclusions: This outbreak investigation portrayed the role that adequate vaccination coverage plays in preventing widespread outbreaks. Nonetheless, community sensitisation and routine immunisation require strengthening in order to erase pockets of susceptible children.
Outcome of Mammography Examination in Asymptomatic Women
Authors: Kolade-Yunusa Hadijat Oluseyi , Itanyi Ukamaka Dorothy
Published: June 2021

Background:

Early detection of breast cancer is important in reducing mortality, morbidity, and high socioeconomic burden associated with it. Mammography is currently the primary imaging modality used as a screening tool to detect early breast cancer in women experiencing no symptoms as they are most curable in the early stage with availability of breast conservative therapies.

Objective:

This study aimed at determining the mammographic breast density patterns and outcome in asymptomatic women who presented for mammographic examination in Abuja.

Materials and Methods:

This descriptive cross-sectional study comprises of 113 asymptomatic women who presented for mammographic examination at the Radiology Department of University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada from March 2015 to December 2018. Two basic views (craniocaudal and mediolateral views) of the breast were obtained using EXR-650 mammographic machine.

Results:

The mean age of study population was 40.72 ± 10.45 years with age range of 35 and 65 years. Base on mammographic breast density, breast imaging, reporting, and data system 1 and 2 were the most prevalent. There was a positive correlation between mammographic breast density and age of respondents. This relationship was statistically significant (Pearson correlation = 0.56, P = 0.000). The mammographic outcome among asymptomatic women who had mammographic examination was negative in 69 (61.1%) women and positive in 44 (38.9%). The positive outcome noted in mammograms of women examined was: benign mass in 18 (15.9%) women; 9 (8.0%) had benign calcification; 7 (6.2%) showed architectural distortion; 5 (4.4%) was inconclusive; focal asymmetry in 3 (2.6%); and suspicious mass in 2 (1.8%).

Conclusion:

In this study, screening of women reveals various benign and malignant breast pathologies which necessitate early interventions.
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension and Flavonoids
Authors: Wang Jialing , Li Hailong , Xia Tian , Feng Jun , Zhou Ru
Published: June 2021

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a high mortality progressive pulmonary vascular disease that can lead to right heart failure. The use of clinical drugs for the treatment of PAH is limited to a great extent because of its single target and high price. Flavonoids are widely distributed in nature, and have been found in fruits, vegetables, and traditional Chinese medicine. They have diverse biological activities and various pharmacological effects such as antitumor, antioxidation, and anti-inflammatory. This review summarizes the progress in pharmacodynamics and mechanism of flavonoids in the treatment of PAH in recent years, in order to provide some theoretical references for relevant researchers.
Scope of Practice Boundary Violation in Occupational Therapy
Authors: Mani Karthik
Published: June 2021

Background:

Occupational therapy (OT) practice in India is yet to be regulated at the national level. This presents a significant challenge to the OT community in India as it would be difficult for them to defend themselves if other professionals violate the scope of practice (SOP) boundaries.

Objectives:

The aim is to explore the views of occupational therapists (OTs) related to the issue of SOP boundary violation in OT practice in India.

Study Design:

An online survey research design was chosen to conduct this study. A 10-item electronic survey (9 with response options and one open ended) was developed based on the research question.

Methods:

An online survey link generated through SurveyMonkey was E-mailed to 760 OTs in India, identified through convenient sampling. The survey link was also shared on four WhatsApp Messenger groups (TNAIOTA Official Group, OTist Group, Clinic OT, and IPOTPDG1) with many Indian OTs (snowball sampling). Data were collected from January 29, to February 29, 2020.

Results:

The number of responses received was 126. One hundred and nine (87%) respondents believed that other professionals encroach OT's SOP boundaries knowingly or unknowingly. This belief is strong among all OTs across the nation, regardless of gender and practice experience.

Conclusions:

Many OTs in India believe that individuals belonging to other professions step into the domain of OT knowingly or unknowingly. Enacting an OT practice legislation, establishing a regulatory body at the national level and increasing them at state levels, endorsing an official SOP document, educating stakeholders, and engaging in awareness promotion initiatives would help mitigate the issue to a great extent. Ongoing and strategic efforts by the OT community in India are warranted.
Suicide terrorism and psychology of suicide bomber
Authors: Ogun Mehmet
Published: June 2021

This article reviews suicide terrorism and existing understandings of the psychology of suicide bomber. Suicide attacks that take place in many different parts of the world are one of the most used methods by the terrorist organizations. Suicide terrorism as a type of terrorism carried out by suicide bombers wearing bomb vests or by assembled bomb vehicles attracts a lot of attention globally. Throughout human history, some people may attempt suicide at some point in their lives, and some of these attempts end in death. Suicide is an act of self-punishment and deliberate separation from the world. In other words, suicide is a pathological behavior that a person consciously does with the aim of ending his life and ends with success. The act of killing one's own life, which a person cannot make sense of and regards as abnormal, is such a complex and painful event. In this study, terror, suicide terrorism, suicide bombing will be studied, and the psychology of the suicide bomber will be examined.
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A systematic review of Nigerian patients
Authors: Azeez Taoreed , Eguzozie Emmanuel , Olalusi Oladotun
Published: June 2021

Diabetes mellitus is associated with microvascular and macrovascular complications. Diabetic neuropathy is the most common long-term complication of diabetes. The study was aimed at determining the prevalence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy and identifying its associated factors. Medical databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, African Journal Online, and SCOPUS were searched and eligible studies were selected using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses algorithm. The prevalence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in Nigeria was dependent on the modality used in diagnosing peripheral neuropathy. The overall prevalence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in Nigeria was 31.2%–97.5%. The modality-dependent prevalences were 37%–97.5% (by biothesiometry), 41.7%–75% (by Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument), 31.2%–43.3% (by United Kingdom screening test), and 43.3%–69.9% (by diabetic neuropathic examination score). The associated factors were duration and control of diabetes, the age of the patient, presence of cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension and dyslipidemia and other microvascular complications (e.g., diabetic retinopathy and nephropathy). The prevalence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy was found to be high in Nigeria and the associated risk factors were age, glycemic control, and cardiovascular risk factors.
The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on education: Case report
Authors: Altawaty Adel , Glessa Sara , Ambarek Mohammed
Published: June 2021

In this article, we report on the transformation from face-to-face learning to online virtual learning in the Libyan International Medical University (LIMU). Due to the widespread of COVID-19 worldwide, the Libyan government has enforced a full lockdown on higher education institutions without providing any solutions. This lockdown involved all public and private schools, and universities. Consequently, LIMU transformed its education strategy from face-to-face learning to virtual learning. The learning management system “Moodle” was already used in LIMU since its establishment which made the transformation to online learning much easier to students. Virtual learning is represented by audio and video recording of lectures, and laboratory lessons, live interviews, and interactive sessions for seminars, PBL, and lectures. Students' assessments, both formative and summative assessments were applied using Moodle quizzes and Safe Exam Browser. During the whole process of change, we faced many challenges and limitations. In conclusion, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we had the opportunity to experience online education which is the best platform to keep safe and to continue their learning.
Histopathology Turnaround Time of Surgical Biopsies in a Nigerian Tertiary Health-Care Facility
Authors: Ajani Mustapha A. , Adegoke Omolade O. , Nwanji Ifeanyichukwu D. , Nwadiokwu John I.
Published: June 2021

Background:

Turnaround time (TAT) analysis is finding increasing relevance in clinical laboratories due to its relevance in the quality of care of patients. TAT involves all the various processes that occur within the laboratory.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to analyze the histopathology TAT of surgical biopsies at the Department of Pathology, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.

Materials and Methods:

This was a retrospective analysis of 1085 samples received at the Department of Pathology, UCH, Ibadan, from January to April 2020. Samples were categorized into small, intermediate, and large sizes. Average duration spent in the grossing room, processing, reporting, and result verification was calculated, and the total TAT was determined from the summation of the duration of these processes.

Results:

The mean TAT for all samples was 22 days (±10 days). Reception-grossing, histological processing, reporting, and transcription accounted for an average of 1.5 (7%), 5.9 (27%), 9.1 (41%), and 5.6 (25%) days and percentage of TAT, respectively. There was no significant difference in the mean TATs for small-, intermediate-, and large-sized samples.

Conclusion:

We identified reporting time as the largest contributor to TAT. Other areas of delay were noted at tissue processing and result verification. Adoption of new technology and staff orientation may help to reduce the observed TAT.
Predictors of Knowledge and Perception of Family Planning among Men in Urban Areas in Northwest Nigeria
Authors: Abubakar Bilkisu Gulma , Oche Oche Mansur , Isah Balarabe Adamu , Raji Ismail Abdullateef , Ango Jessica Timane , Okafoagu Nneka Christina , Ezenwoko Ahunna Zainab , Ahmed-Mohammed Ismail , Abdulaziz Mohammad Danmadami
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

The use of family planning (FP) methods has remained low in Nigeria despite the high fertility rate and unmet need; partly because men are excluded in FP programs. Most studies on FP were carried out among married women and information about men was acquired from their wives. Unfortunately, such information may not be accurate.

Aims:

The study aimed to determine the predictors of FP knowledge and perception among men in urban areas in the Northwestern part of Nigeria.

Subjects and Methods:

The study was cross-sectional in design, carried out in urban areas in Northwest Nigeria among 167 married men in November 2017 enrolled through a multi-stage sampling technique. Data collection was done with a structured questionnaire which was interviewer-administered. SPSS version 23 was used to analyze the data.

Results:

The majority (75, 45.5%) had poor knowledge of FP and 118 (71.5%) had a positive perception of FP. Social class (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 15.75, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.14–116.03) and perception (aOR: 0.13, 95% CI = 0.03–0.59) were the predictors of good FP knowledge while knowledge (aOR = 0.10, CI: 0.02–0.51) predicted positive perception on FP.

Conclusion:

Knowledge of FP was poor; the perception of the majority was positive. There is a need by the Sokoto State Government, Local Government Areas, and religious leaders to increase information on FP, especially on the benefits and methods, and the need for males to participate in FP through the enlightenment of the public using the media, schools, and worship places.
Robot-assisted laparoscopic repair of injuries to bladder and ureter following gynecological surgery and obstetric injury
Authors: Kumar Suresh , Modi Pranjal , Mishra Amit , Patel Dhruv , Chandora Rohitas , Handa Rishabh , Chauhan Rohit
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

The objective of the study is to evaluate the outcome of robot-assisted laparoscopic repair of injuries to urinary tract following gynecological surgery and obstetric injury.

Methods:

This retrospective analysis from prospectively collected data of repair of injuries to bladder and ureter using da Vinci Si robotic platform was carried out. Between April 2014 and May 2019, 27 patients were operated on in a single surgical unit; 25 had hysterectomy and 2 were obstetric cases. Fifteen patients underwent vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) repair, ten underwent ureteral reimplant, with concomitant psoas hitch, and two underwent Boari flap repair following gynecological surgery and obstetric injury.

Results:

Among 15 patients of VVF repair, 3 cases were previously attempted failed repair, 2 underwent concomitant ureteral reimplant, and 1 underwent concomitant ovarian cystectomy. The mean total operative time was 126 (75–206) min, and the mean hospital stay was 4.4 (3–6) days. Among 12 cases of ureteral injury, 5 were on the right side and 7 were on the left side; the mean total operative time was 150.16 (110–215) min, and the mean hospital stay was 4 (3–7) days. No case required conversion to open in this cohort. All cases were successfully cured without any recurrence of fistula or stricture during their mean follow-up period of 35.3 (9–66) months.

Conclusions:

Robot-assisted laparoscopic repair for injuries to bladder and ureter is effective and highly successful even in previously failed cases.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of anti-IgE for chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Pinto J.M. , Mehta N. , DiTineo M. , Wang J. , Baroody F.M. , Naclerio R.M.
Published: June 2021

Evidence suggests IgE may play a role in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). We sought to determine if treatment with a monoclonal antibody against IgE (omalizumab) is effective in reducing CRS inflammation. We performed a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled clinical trial in subjects with CRS despite treatment (including surgery). Subjects were randomized to receive omalizumab or placebo for 6 months. The primary outcome was quantitative measurement of sinus inflammation on imaging. Secondary outcome measures included quality of life, symptoms, and cellular inflammation, nasal airflow (NPIF) and olfactory testing (UPSIT). Subjects on omalizumab showed reduced inflammation on imaging after treatment, whereas those on placebo showed no change. The net difference, however, was not different between treatments. Treatment with omalizumab was associated with improvement in the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-20) at 3, 5, and 6 months compared to baseline with no significant changes in the control group. Remaining measures showed no significant differences across treatments. We conclude that IgE plays, at most, a small role in the mucosal inflammation of CRS and the symptoms. Placebo controlled, blinded studies with larger enrollment are needed to determine the clinical significance of any potential change.