bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attention Horizon as a Predictor for the Fuel Consumption Rate of Drivers
Authors: Sarmadi Hamid , Nowaczyk Sławomir , Prytz Rune , Simão Miguel
Published: March 2022

Understanding the operation of complex assets such heavy-duty vehicles is essential for improving the efficiency, sustainability, and safety of future industry. Specifically, reducing energy consumption of transportation is crucially important for fleet operators, due to the impact it has on decreasing energy costs and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Drivers have a high influence on fuel usage. However, reliably estimating driver performance is challenging. This is a key component of many eco-driving tools used to train drivers. Some key aspects of good, or efficient, drivers include being more aware of the surroundings, adapting to the road situations, and anticipating likely developments of the traffic conditions. With the development of IoT technologies and possibility of collecting high-precision and high-frequency data, even such vague concepts can be qualitatively measured, or at least approximated. In this paper, we demonstrate how the driver’s degree of attention to the road can be automatically extracted from onboard sensor data. More specifically, our main contribution is introduction of a new metric, called attention horizon (AH); it can, fully automatically and based on readily-available IoT data, capture, differentiate, and evaluate a driver’s behavior as the vehicle approaches a red traffic light. We suggest that our measure encapsulates complex concepts such as driver’s “awareness” and “carefulness” in itself. This metric is extracted from the pedal positions in a 150 m trajectory just before stopping. We demonstrate that this metric is correlated with normalized fuel consumption rate (FCR) in the long term, making it a suitable tool for ranking and evaluating drivers. For example, over weekly periods we found a negative median correlation between AH and FCR with the absolute value of 0.156; while using monthly data, the value was 0.402.
Investigation of Flow Changes in Intracranial Vascular Disease Models Constructed with MRA Images
Authors: Kim Jeong-Heon , Jung Ju-Yeon , Lee Yeong-Bae , Kang Chang-Ki
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to develop a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-compatible flow delivery system and individualized models of circle of Willis (CoW), which include 50% and 100% blockage in internal carotid artery (ICA50 and ICA100), and 100% blockage in vertebral artery (VA100). Images were obtained using 3D time-of-flight and phase-contrast magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) sequences, and changes in velocity and flow direction at CoW models were analyzed. For the ICA50 and VA100 models, the flow was similar to that of the normal model. For the ICA 50 model, it was found that 50% blockage did not affect cerebral blood flow. For the VA100 model, decreased flow in the posterior cerebral artery and a change to the flow direction in the posterior communicating artery were found. For the ICA100 model, particularly, decreased flow in the ipsilateral middle and anterior cerebral arteries and a change to the flow direction in the ipsilateral anterior cerebral artery of the CoW were found. These results demonstrated that the flow system with various CoW disease models tailored to individual characteristics could be used to predict stroke onset more quickly. For the ICA50 and VA100 models, the possibility of cerebral infarction was significantly lower. On the other hand, for the ICA100 model, there was a high possibility of decreased flow, which could lead to cerebral infarction.
Translation-Invariant Zero-Phase Wavelet Methods for Feature Extraction in Terahertz Time-Domain Spectroscopy
Authors: Khani Mahmoud E. , Arbab Mohammad Hassan
Published: March 2022

Wavelet transform is an important tool in the computational signal processing of terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) measurements. Despite its prevalence, the effects of using different forms of wavelet transforms in THz-TDS studies have not been investigated. In this paper, we explore the implications of using the maximal overlap discrete wavelet transform (MODWT) versus the well-known discrete wavelet transform (DWT). We demonstrate that the spectroscopic features extracted using DWT can vary over different overlapping frequency ranges. On the contrary, MODWT is translation-invariant and results in identical features, regardless of the spectral range used for its implementation.We also demonstrate that the details coefficients obtained by the multiresolution analysis (MRA) using MODWT are associated with zero-phase filters. In contrast, DWT details coefficients suffer from misalignments originated from the down- and upsampling operations in DWT pyramid algorithm. Such misalignments have adverse effects when it is critical to retain the exact location of the absorption lines. We study the differences of DWT and MODWT both analytically and experimentally, using reflection THz-TDS measurements of α-lactose monohydrate. This manuscript can guide the researchers to select the right wavelet analysis tool for their specific application of the THz spectroscopy.
A Review of the Combined Effect of Fibers and Nano Materials on the Technical Performance of Mortar and Concrete
Authors: Hussein Twana , Kurda Rawaz , Mosaberpanah Mohammad , Alyousef Rayed
Published: March 2022

Nowadays, both nanomaterials and fibers have tremendous application in various industries, and they are a significant research area in the construction industry particularly. Thus, it is critical to have a comprehensive review to show the simultaneous impact of fibers and nanomaterials on the technical performance of different types of main construction materials such as mortar and concrete. The current work accomplishes this by providing a comprehensive review of the relevant literature on various nanomaterials and fibers through using a literate experimental database of conducted studies that have at least a type of fiber with one nanomaterial in the same mix. Accordingly, the collected data were analyzed, and they were compared to their control mixes in which no fiber and nanomaterials were used. The study majorly focuses on the effects of fibers and nanomaterials on fresh and hardened properties of produced mixes in terms of density, workability, mechanical and durability performance with consideration of microstructure and electrical resistivity as well. The study outcome provides a systematic knowledge and thorough guide to selecting and combining different fibers with nanoparticles to improve concrete/mortar performance effectively, in which not only the optimum percentage for the use of both fiber and nanomaterials are identified, but also is helpful to promote further research.
Isolation and Characterization of Three New Crude Oil Degrading Yeast Strains, Candida parapsilosis SK1, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa SK2 and SK3
Authors: Benmessaoud Safaâ , Anissi Jaouad , Kara Mohammed , Assouguem Amine , AL-Huqail Arwa Abdulkreem , Germoush Mousa O. , Ullah Riaz , Ercisli Sezai , Bahhou Jamila
Published: March 2022

Bioremediation using yeasts is an alternative way to minimize the effects of oil spillage on soil. This paper aims to establish a bioremediation protocol involving the optimization of physicochemical parameters. In this regard, three new yeast strains, SK1, SK2 and SK3, were isolated from hydrocarbon-contaminated samples from the Fez-Meknes region, Morocco. These isolates were identified as new species of Candida parapsilosis (SK1) and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa (SK2 and SK3), respectively, based on the similarity of their ITS region. The kinetic analysis of the process of degradation of petroleum oils are highlighted. These analyses were based on the degradation kinetics, and biomass formation using gravimetric analysis and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry techniques. The strains were able to degrade 68% of the total petroleum hydrocarbon in 21 days, as the sole carbon source. The addition of glucose increased the rate at which crude oil was consumed by the isolates. Our results suggest that inoculants based on Candida parapsilosis (SK1) and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa (SK2 and SK3) cells have potential application in the biodegradation of crude oil and possibly in the degradation of other related aromatic compounds.
Deconstruction of the Green Bubble during COVID-19 International Evidence
Authors: Ghosh Bikramaditya , Papathanasiou Spyros , Dar Vandita , Kenourgios Dimitrios
Published: March 2022

Bubbles are usually chaotic but can be predictable, provided their formation matches the log periodic power law (LPPL) with unique stylized facts. We investigated Green Bubble behaviour in the stock prices of a selection of stocks during the COVID-19 pandemic, namely, those with the highest market capitalization from a basket of North American and European green energy or clean tech companies and the S&P Global Clean Energy Index. Moreover, the biggest Exchange Traded Fund (TAN) by market capitalization was also considered. The examined period is from 31 December 2019 to 11 October 2021, during which we detected 35 Green Bubbles. All of these followed the LPPL signature while calibrated through the 2013 reformulated LPPL model. In addition, the average drawdown emerged as four times that of the regular S&P-500 stock index (108% vs. 27%) under stressed conditions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic (stylized fact). Finally, the aftermaths of Green Bubbles, unlike regular bubbles, are not destructive, as these bubbles increase economic activity and infrastructure spending and are hence beneficial for holistic growth (described as Social Bubble Hypothesis). We document that there are benefits in adapting greener and more sustainable business models in energy production. Green and sustainable finance offers benefits and opportunities for stock exchanges, especially for energy stocks. As a result, many businesses are focusing on sustainability and adopting an eco-friendly business model, which helps the environment, helps sustainability and attracts investors.
Modeling Multistep Ahead Dissolved Oxygen Concentration Using Improved Support Vector Machines by a Hybrid Metaheuristic Algorithm
Authors: Adnan Rana Muhammad , Dai Hong-Liang , Mostafa Reham R. , Parmar Kulwinder Singh , Heddam Salim , Kisi Ozgur
Published: March 2022

Dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration is an important water-quality parameter, and its estimation is very important for aquatic ecosystems, drinking water resources, and agro-industrial activities. In the presented study, a new support vector machine (SVM) method, which is improved by hybrid firefly algorithm–particle swarm optimization (FFAPSO), is proposed for the accurate estimation of the DO. Daily pH, temperature (T), electrical conductivity (EC), river discharge (Q) and DO data from Fountain Creek near Fountain, the United States, were used for the model development. Various combinations of pH, T, EC, and Q were used as inputs to the models to estimate the DO. The outcomes of the proposed SVM–FFAPSO model were compared with the SVM–PSO, SVM–FFA, and standalone SVM with respect to the root mean square errors (RMSE), the mean absolute error (MAE), Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), and determination coefficient (R2), and graphical methods, such as scatterplots, and Taylor and violin charts. The SVM–FFAPSO showed a superior performance to the other methods in the estimation of the DO. The best model of each method was also assessed in multistep-ahead (from 1- to 7-day ahead) DO, and the superiority of the proposed method was observed from the comparison. The general outcomes recommend the use of SVM–FFAPSO in DO modeling, and this method can be useful for decision-makers in urban water planning and management.
Fresh-Cut Salads: Consumer Acceptance and Quality Parameter Evolution during Storage in Domestic Refrigerators
Authors: Lorente-Mento José M. , Valverde Juan M. , Serrano María , Pretel María T.
Published: March 2022

Ready-to-eat fresh-cut salads (RTESs) are fresh-cut vegetables that have been minimally processed and remain alive until consumption. A survey with 297 respondents was performed, showing that most respondents consumed RTESs composed of various vegetables once or twice a week. The most important items for consumers’ RTESs purchasing intention were the expiration date and the absence of exudates and brown and dehydrated leaves, while after storage in domestic refrigerators, the most important item for consumption refusal was the presence of strange odours. On the other hand, among the non-consumers of RTESs, the most important reason for not buying this kind of produce was the use of plastic packaging. Microbiological analysis of RTESs (composed of corn salads, radicchio and escarole leaves) showed that moulds, yeasts and psychrophilic aerobic microflora remained unchanged from buying to the expiration date, while increases occurred in mesophilic aerobic microflora, although all of them were within safety levels for consumption even after 4 days of the expiration date. Finally, total phenolics and antioxidant activity were higher in corn salads followed by radicchio and escarole leaves, and generally, no significant changes occurred in the bioactive compounds of RTESs during storage in domestic refrigerators.
Monetary Policy, External Shocks and Economic Growth Dynamics in East Africa: An S-VAR Model
Authors: Olamide Ebenezer , Maredza Andrew , Ogujiuba Kanayo
Published: March 2022

Resulting from the incessant political and economic uncertainty that bedevils the EAC region in the recent past, the various governments have used monetary policy changes in response to shocks from macroeconomic variables. However, the available literature shows a non-agreement by scholars as far as the dynamics in monetary policy, external shocks and macroeconomic activity connections are concerned, for both country-by-country analyses and regional assessments. This article widens the frontiers of knowledge about how the dynamics of monetary policy, external shocks and macroeconomic performance interact within the EAC economic region. We adopted the S-VAR method because of its contemporary nature as far as a transmission of monetary policy approach is concerned. The interconnectivity among the countries of EAC is an indication that any shock to the price of commodities (non-oil commodities) has significant implication on the exchange rate, which will be channelled through the supply of money and monetary policy to the GDP. The need to diversify the productive and export base of member countries, compared to the continuous dependence on one or a few products as the major source of income, is hereby advocated.
Utilising Human Crash Tolerance to Design an Interim and Ultimate Safe System for Road Safety
Authors: Truong Jessica , Strandroth Johan , Logan David B. , Job R. F. Soames , Newstead Stuart
Published: March 2022

Many jurisdictions globally have adopted a zero road trauma target by 2050 and an interim target of a 50% reduction by 2030. The objective of this study was to investigate what the road system will need to look like in order to achieve these respective targets. Utilising human tolerance to injury as the key design factor, this study defined the combination of vehicle, infrastructure, and travel speed requirements to manage crash energy in order to: 1. prevent all fatalities and serious injuries by 2050 in an Ultimate Safe System scenario; and 2. significantly reduce fatalities and severe injuries by 2030 in an Interim Safe System scenario. Victoria, Australia and its Movement and Place (M&P) framework was employed as a case study. With the vehicle and infrastructure countermeasures currently available coupled with appropriate travel speeds it is possible to construct an Ultimate Safe System that can manage crash forces to achieve zero trauma and an Interim Safe System that can significantly reduce the most severe injuries in Victoria. This study has demonstrated a potential pathway from the current situation to 2030 and then 2050 that can achieve safety targets while meeting the core objectives of the transport system.
Value Propositions for Small Fashion Businesses: From Japanese Case Studies
Authors: Nagano Aki
Published: March 2022

Environmental problems at the global level have become a critical issue in today’s fashion industry. However, small-and medium-sized fashion business (SMFBs) encounter barriers in promoting green business owing to finances, professional expertise, knowledge, and technology. Therefore, innovative ideas are vital for SMFBs to effectively address constraints to compliance. The purpose of this research is to analyze how SMFBs develop the interactive nature of value propositions based on the case studies of the Onomichi Denim Project and the REKROW and addresses what elements are associated with value propositions based on the human-centered perspectives. This study collected data through face-to-face and remote interviews, and a review of the previous literature, including magazines, websites, and videos. This study identified four value elements contributing to value propositions: environmental value, embedded social value, synergetic value, and educational value. These elements developed through various forms of interaction, such as a unique co-production system embedding social ties and the establishment of a production-oriented circular economy. The study proposed value creation through value proposition as a strategy crucial to managing SMFBs.
Achieving Financial Sustainability through Revenue Diversification: A Green Pathway for Financial Institutions in Asia
Authors: Xie Zhikang , Liu Xinglin , Najam Hina , Fu Qinghua , Abbas Jawad , Comite Ubaldo , Cismas Laura Mariana , Miculescu Andra
Published: March 2022

Establishing balanced and sustainable development is critical for improving banks’ capability and performance. Financial development has enormous significance in an environment of increasingly contestable international markets, and can be achieved by enhancing banking efficiency and performance. The bank efficiency is estimated through data envelopment analysis (DEA). By applying the quantile regression technique, this research examines the impact of revenue diversification (RD) on the bank efficiency (BE) of seven Asian emerging economies over 2008–2019. In this regard, non-performing loans (NPLs), non-interest income, capitalization, and gross domestic product (GDP) are taken as control variables. The empirical findings indicate that RD, market capitalization, non-interest income, and GDP have a significant positive impact on BE, whereas NPLs have a significant negative relationship with BE. These results have significant strategic implications for managers, regulators, and policymakers, who share a common interest in boosting financial sustainability and performance.
Corporate Sustainability and Firm Performance: The Moderating Role of CEO Education and Tenure
Authors: Ghardallou Wafa
Published: March 2022

The aim of this research is to investigate the impact of corporate sustainability on a firm’s financial performance. It particularly investigates the effectiveness of CEO characteristics as a moderator on corporate social responsibility (CSR)–firm financial performance linkages. This study is unique since it sheds new insight on how a CEO’s attributes may influence the relationship between CSR and financial performance. The evidence so far is sparse, since previous studies have investigated the direct effects of CEO or CSR on corporate performance. We look at a sample of 34 Saudi publicly traded companies from 2015 to 2020. Data on financial, accounting, and sustainability variables are collected from the Bloomberg database and the annual reports of the selected companies. Findings reveal that firms engaged in corporate social responsibility practices tend to have better financial performance. More importantly, it is found that in the moderation relationship of firm financial performance with corporate sustainability, CEO education and tenure act as positive moderators. In particular, results indicate that CEOs having an engineering- or a science-related degree positively affect the relationship between CSR and business performance. The relationship is further enhanced when the CEO holds an MBA. Finally, longer tenured CEOs play a positively moderating role in the association between firm performance and CSR.
Complex Interval-Valued q-Rung Orthopair Fuzzy Hamy Mean Operators and Their Application in Decision-Making Strategy
Authors: Ali Zeeshan , Mahmood Tahir , Pamucar Dragan , Wei Chuliang
Published: March 2022

This paper deals with uncertainty, asymmetric information, and risk modelling in a complex power system. The uncertainty is managed by using probability and decision theory methods. Multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) technique is a very effective and well-known tool to investigate fuzzy information more effectively. However, the selection of houses cannot be carried out by utilizing symmetry information, because enterprises does not have complete information, so asymmetric information should be used when selecting enterprises. Hamy mean (HM) operator is a feasible tool to handle strategic decision-making problems because it can capture the order between the finite input terms. Additionally, the complex interval-valued q-rung orthopair fuzzy (CIVq-ROF) setting is a broadly flexible and massively dominant technique to operate problematic and awkward data in actual life problems. The major contribution of this analysis is how to aggregate the collection of alternatives into a singleton set, for this we analyzed the technique of CIVq-ROF Hamy mean (CIVq-ROFHM) operator and CIVq-ROF weighted Hamy mean (Cq-ROFWHM) operator and some well-known results are deliberated. Keeping the advantages of the parameters in HM operators, we discussed the specific cases of the invented operators. To investigate the decision-making problems based on CIVq-ROF information, we suggested the following multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) technique to determine the beneficial term from the finite group of alternatives with the help of evaluating several examples. This manuscript showed how to make decisions when there is asymmetric information about enterprises. Finally, based on the evaluating examples, we try to discover the sensitive analysis and supremacy of the invented operators to find the flexibility and dominancy of the diagnosed approaches.
Determination of Cyanotoxins and Prymnesins in Water, Fish Tissue, and Other Matrices: A Review
Authors: Sundaravadivelu Devi , Sanan Toby T. , Venkatapathy Raghuraman , Mash Heath , Tettenhorst Dan , DAnglada Lesley , Frey Sharon , Tatters Avery O. , Lazorchak James
Published: March 2022

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) and their toxins are a significant and continuing threat to aquatic life in freshwater, estuarine, and coastal water ecosystems. Scientific understanding of the impacts of HABs on aquatic ecosystems has been hampered, in part, by limitations in the methodologies to measure cyanotoxins in complex matrices. This literature review discusses the methodologies currently used to measure the most commonly found freshwater cyanotoxins and prymnesins in various matrices and to assess their advantages and limitations. Identifying and quantifying cyanotoxins in surface waters, fish tissue, organs, and other matrices are crucial for risk assessment and for ensuring quality of food and water for consumption and recreational uses. This paper also summarizes currently available tissue extraction, preparation, and detection methods mentioned in previous studies that have quantified toxins in complex matrices. The structural diversity and complexity of many cyanobacterial and algal metabolites further impede accurate quantitation and structural confirmation for various cyanotoxins. Liquid chromatography–triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (LC–MS/MS) to enhance the sensitivity and selectivity of toxin analysis has become an essential tool for cyanotoxin detection and can potentially be used for the concurrent analysis of multiple toxins.
Weak Gravitation in the 4+1 Formalism
Authors: Land Martin
Published: March 2022

The 4+1 formalism in general relativity (GR) prescribes field equations for the spacetime metric γμνx,τ which is local in the spacetime coordinates x and evolves according to an external “worldtime” τ. This formalism extends to GR the Stueckelberg Horwitz Piron (SHP) framework, developed to address the various issues known as the problem of time as they appear in electrodynamics. SHP field theories exhibit a formal 5D symmetry on (x,τ) that is strategically broken to 4+1 representations of the Lorentz group, resulting in a manifestly covariant canonical formalism describing the τ-evolution of spacetime structures as an initial value problem. Einstein equations for γμνx,τ are found by constructing a 5D pseudo-manifold (combining 4D geometry and τ-dynamics) and performing the natural foliation under broken 5D symmetry. This paper discusses weak gravitation in the 4+1 formalism, demonstrating the natural decomposition of the field equations into first-order evolution equations for the unconstrained 4D metric, and the propagation of constraints associated with the Bianchi identity.
Lack of Evidence of Chikungunya Virus Infection among Blood Donors during the Chikungunya Outbreak in Lazio Region, Italy, 2017
Authors: Venturi Giulietta , Fabiani Massimo , Amendola Antonello , Marsili Giulia , Benedetti Eleonora , Fiorentini Cristiano , Fortuna Claudia , Pupella Simonetta , Pezzotti Patrizio , Vaglio Stefania , Pisani Giulio , De Angelis Vincenzo , Riccardo Flavia , Pati Ilaria
Published: March 2022

Background: The latest European Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) outbreak occurred in Italy in 2017, in the municipalities of Anzio and Rome (Lazio Region), with a secondary outbreak in the Calabrian Region. Most CHIKV infections are symptomatic but about 15% of people who acquire the infection may be asymptomatic. A retrospective study was conducted with the aim of assessing the prevalence of recent/ongoing CHIKV infections on the blood donor population in the Lazio Region, during the 2017 outbreak (including in the period before it was detected). Methods: The study was conducted on 4595 plasma samples from donors who donated in 14 different Blood Establishments in the Lazio Region, in the period June–November 2017. A total of 389 of these samples were collected in provinces not affected by the outbreak and were used as negative controls. All samples were tested for IgM detection by the use of an ELISA test, and positive samples were tested for confirmation through the use of a PRNT. Molecular tests were performed on sera that were found to be IgM-positive or borderline. Results: A total of 41 (0.89%) blood donors tested positive for IgM. None of these positive IgM ELISA results was confirmed either by PRNT or by molecular tests. Conclusions: Our study has shown no evidence of recent/ongoing CHIKV infection in blood donors of the affected area.
Simulation of Sudden Water Pollution Accidents in Hunhe River Basin Upstream of Dahuofang Reservoir
Authors: Yan Bin , Liu Yuting , Gao Zhenwei , Liu Dehui
Published: March 2022

Dahuofang Reservoir is an important drinking water source for Shenyang, Fushun, Anshan, Liaoyang, and other cities. The water quality of the upstream inflow river directly affects the water supply safety. When a sudden water pollution accident occurs upstream of the reservoir, the pollution risk to the water source can be minimized if the variation rule of pollutant concentration along the course can be accurately simulated in time. Therefore, based on Mike 21, this paper established a hydrodynamic water quality coupling model of the Hun River basin upstream of Dahuofang Reservoir, and determined and verified the relevant parameters of the hydrodynamic model. In establishing the water quality model, the improved empirical frequency curve method was adopted to divide the high-flow period, the level period, and the low-flow period, so that the hydraulic conditions in each period were more reasonable. By a hypothetical scenario and working condition design, the suspended iron concentration and COD concentration along the course of a sudden water pollution accident were simulated. The diffusion rules of pollutants in different periods and under different working conditions were obtained. The most important objective was to obtain the six early warning index values in different hydrological periods, which allows the prediction of the scope and extent of the accident and provides a basis for ensuring the safety of the water supply at the water source.
A Lethal Case of Natural Infection with the H5N8 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus of Clade 2.3.4.4 in a Mandarin Duck
Authors: Khalil Ahmed Magdy , Hatai Hitoshi , Fujimoto Yoshikazu , Kojima Isshu , Okajima Misuzu , Esaki Mana , Kinoshita Kyonha , Ozawa Makoto
Published: March 2022

Recent global outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) of the H5N8 subtype in poultry and wild birds have raised concerns about animal and human health, particularly after its first evidence of zoonotic transmission from birds to humans. Here, we report a lethal infection with the H5N8 HPAIV in a mandarin duck that had previously demonstrated resistance to the H5N8 HPAIV infection. In addition, we revealed that the isolated virus was a genetic reassortant between the existing H5N8 HPAIV and LPAIV(s). Although further studies are warranted to assess the impact of the genetic reassortment on virus pathogenicity, the potential role of mandarin ducks in HPAIV dissemination should be re-evaluated.
System-Based Multidisciplinary Initiatives for Improvement in Tracheostomy Care and Safety: Experience of an Academic Health Institution Hospital Network
Authors: Atkins Joshua , Lambe Leah , Marchiano Laura , Gardner Lea Anne , Lam Doreen , Rassekh Christopher
Published: March 2022

Tracheostomized patients represent a unique patient population at risk of life-threatening airway compromise. There can be a presumption that these patients have a “safe” or low-risk airway. Clinicians and other care providers may be unfamiliar with both tracheostomy tubes and best practices for tracheostomy maintenance, assessment, and emergency triage or resuscitation. A review of the highest- acuity emergency airway calls at our university hospital revealed that well over 20% of the emergencies that triggered these activations were in patients with existing tracheostomy tubes. Further analysis of the tracheostomy-related airway emergencies at that time was very informative.

Under the auspices of our multidisciplinary airway safety committee, we developed a core tracheostomy-focused team and implemented numerous quality and safety initiatives. Here we present a focused review and discussion of tracheostomy-related clinical issues at the University of Pennsylvania Health System (UPHS) and a summary of quality and safety improvement efforts related to the care of tracheostomized patients based on responses to locally identified safety opportunities.

Our experience with tracheostomy-related quality improvement (QI) efforts led us to reach out to the Patient Safety Authority. The Pennsylvania Patient Safety Reporting System (PA-PSRS) data presented by Gardner et al. highlights the categories of airway-related events documented across a range of facilities in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. We frame our efforts in the context of both the PA-PSRS data and international perspectives from the U.K. and highlight barriers to implementation and learnings from our iterative and interdisciplinary approach to tracheostomy-related challenges.
O Beethoven de Max Klinger
Authors: Türcke Christoph
Published: March 2022

O museu de Artes Plásticas de Leipzig dedicou uma sala inteira ao pintor e escultor Max Klinger. Nela, algumas de suas mais importantes obras foram reunidas. No meio da sala estava a monumental escultura de Beethoven, feita por Klinger. Para esta sala, concebi uma programação em três partes: “Palavra-Imagem-Som: obras-chave de Max Klinger à luz da música congenial”. A ideia era: “A cada noite, diante de um original de Klinger, soava um quarteto de cordas, o que desafia o trabalho visual e é desafiado por ele. A música ajuda a ver, a obra a ouvir. Palavras introdutórias e comentários relacionam imagem e música entre si, de tal modo que a experiência sinestésica entra em sintonia com elas”. Na primeira noite, em 21 de novembro de 2018, o Quarteto-Grieg, de Leipzig, tocou, diante do Beethoven de Klinger, o op. 127 de Beethoven para Quarteto de Cordas.
Tempos de Deleuze
Authors: Pál Pelbart Peter
Published: March 2022

Peter Pál Pelbart reflete sobre questões urgentes através de Deleuze e outros autores
A Perlaboração de Celso Favaretto
Authors: Braga Paula
Published: March 2022

Em homenagem a Celso Favaretto, o artigo aborda o conceito de perlaboração.
Hypertension and Diabetes Mellitus in Rural Haiti
Authors: Ortega Johis , Gonzalez Juan M. , Snowden Kenya , Quintana Amauri , Gattamorta Karina
Published: March 2022

Introduction: The problem of the prevailing occurrence of hypertension and diabetes cases quickly took the world by storm. Rural areas became even more exposed to the negative issues associated with these health conditions due to the lack of a skilled workforce and educational programs for patients. Within the framework of the current paper, the researcher utilized the data from two mission trips in Thomonde, Haiti, to gain more insight into chronic health issues among rural Haitian residents. Methods: This study employed a retrospective analytical cross-sectional retrospective, descriptive design utilizing data obtained from two mission trips in Thomonde, Haiti in the areas of Palmay, Savane Plate, and La Hoye. The information was analyzed with the help of the SPSS software. A total of 403 adult patient visits across the three sites and two visits were included in the analysis. Results: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (25.8%) was the most common diagnosis found in the rural Haitian communes among adults in the total sample (N=403), followed by Hypertension (16.8%) and Dehydration (13.9%). Among women, significant differences were found by location for pregnancy. The greatest number of pregnancies were observed in La Hoye (19.0%). Conclusion: The core implication of these findings was the significance of disseminating knowledge across rural areas while conducting similar retrospective studies to check progress. Real-life application of relevant knowledge could be beneficial for both patients and care providers operating in rural locations that are the hardest to reach.
High Economic Stress May Explain Worse-Than-Expected Health of Highly Educated Chinese Americans
Authors: Assari Shervin
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Low stress is one of many plausible mechanisms that may explain the health effects of educational attainment. However, Marginalization-related Diminished Returns (MDRs) refer to the weaker health effects of educational attainment for marginalized, compared to privileged, groups. We are unaware of any previous studies that have compared Asian and non-Hispanic White Americans for the effects of educational attainment on perceived economic stress. The aim was to compare Chinese and non-Hispanic White Americans for the association between educational attainment and perceived economic stress in a national sample of American adults. This is important given stress is a risk factor for poor health. Methods: This study analyzed cross-sectional data of 20,793 adults who participated in the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS 2015). From all participants, 403 individuals were Chinese Americans, and 20,390 were non-Hispanic Whites. Perceived economic stress was the outcome of interest. Years of education (educational attainment) was the predictor variable of interest. Gender, age, region, marital status, sexual orientation (i.e., lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT)), and immigration status were covariates. Race/ethnicity was the effect modifier. Results: Overall, higher educational attainment was associated with lower levels of perceived economic stress. A statistically significant interaction showed that the effect of educational attainment on reducing perceived economic stress is smaller for Chinese Americans than Non-Hispanic Whites. Conclusion: Educational attainment is not similarly protective against perceived economic stress across all social groups. Thus, perceived economic stress may explain why ethnic minorities and immigrants gain decreased benefits from their educational attainment than the mainstream and privileged social group.
An Overview on Steps to Accelerate Science Communication in Tamil
Authors: Dorairajan Uthra , Sambasivam Manikandan
Published: March 2022

Our country’s Science, Technology, Innovation Policy (STIP 2020) was released last year. Generally, there exists a gap between science and technology and the general public. It is impertinent to bridge this gap between scientific domain experts, technology aficionados and common (wo)man. STIP 2020 aims to maximize the number of people that participate in and contribute to the scientific discussions, missions and processes in the country. Current science and technology innovations, opportunities, and efforts need to reach every citizen through every spoken and written language of our country. This can be realized by enriching vocabulary in vernacular languages, revisiting words which are not in vogue, translating, transliterating, building technical dictionaries, publishing revised editions, creating copious web resources in Tamil and other local languages. Collaboration with science and technology experts and their contribution towards increasing the technical vocabulary is indispensable to achieve this in the current situation. Translators, linguists, litterateurs should work in unison with experts from different fields. In this article, the authors share their concerns and ideas based on their experience in translating students’ science resources to Tamil.
Recurrent Candidosis in Clinical Practice of Obstetrician- Gynecologist
Authors: Бурьяк Д.В.
Published: March 2022

Рецидивирующий вульвовагинальный кандидоз является одной из частых причин обращения к врачу – акушеру-гинекологу, и его лечение нередко вызывает затруднения у практического врача. Причиной этого является распространение резистентности кандид к противогрибковым препаратам, высокая частота встречаемости неальбиканс-видов кандид, хуже поддающихся лечению, а также целый ряд факторов со стороны макроорганизма, предрасполагающих к хронизации процесса. Выбор оптимальной схемы фармакотерапии урогенитального кандидоза должен осуществляться с учетом фунгицидных или фунгистатических свойств препаратов, растущей резистентности грибковой флоры к химиопрепаратам, необходимости санации резервуаров кандидозной инфекции и, при необходимости, лечения партнера. Преодоление факторов резистентности, описываемых в настоящей статье, а также рациональный выбор тактики противогрибковой терапии представляют значительный интерес для клинической практики и дают возможность улучшить результаты лечения рецидивирующего кандидоза.

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis is one of the frequent reasons of referral to obstetrician- gynecologist and its treatment quite often might be challenging for the healthcare provider. The reasons for that include the increasing resistance of Candida species to antifungal drugs, high incidence of infection with non-albicans Candida known for higher resistance to treatment, and a number of factors inherent to macroorganism which predispose to the chronization of the disease. The choice of optimal treatment schedule of urogenital candidosis should be based on consideration of fungicidal or fungistatic properties of the drugs, growing resistance of mycotic flora to chemotherapy, requirements of candida reservoirs sanation and, if necessary, treatment of the partner. Overcoming of the resistance factors, described in this article, as well as rational choice of antifungal therapy approach represent significant interest for clinical practice and contribute to the improvement of recurrent candidosis treatment outcomes.
"Let’s Figure it out for the Three of Us", or What are the Dividends Received from Sharing Alcohol?
Authors: Плоткин Ф.Б.
Published: March 2022

Определяется смысловое содержание выражения «сообразим на троих». Указано на значение интерперсональных отношений в жизни человека как социального существа. Описаны субъективно позитивные психотропные эффекты этанола, объясняющие его широкое применение. Кратко характеризуется феномен «одиночного пьянства». Рассмотрено псевдоадаптивное действие алкоголя в ситуациях межличностного общения, нередко приводящее к систематической алкоголизации и формированию зависимости. Упоминаются важнейшие задачи, стоящие перед наркологом на начальных этапах работы с аддиктами. Подчеркивается первостепенная важность психотерапии для коррекции нарушенных объектных отношений у этой категории пациентов.

The semantic content of the expression «let’s figure it out for three» was determined. The importance of interpersonal relations in the life of a human being as a social creature was showed. Subjectively positive psychotropic effects of ethanol that explain its wide consumption, were described. The phenomenon of «solitary drunkenness» is briefly characterized. Multilateral psychotropic effects of ethanol in interpersonal relations that frequently lead to systematic alcoholization and formation of addiction, were described. The important tasks that the narcologist is facing at the initial stages of work with addicts were mentioned. Certain psychotherapeutic methods for correction of interpersonal relations were recommended.
Correlation of Eating Habits, External Factors and Some Other Factors with Acne
Authors: Баринова А.Н. , Плавинский С.Л.
Published: March 2022

Было проведено исследование факторов риска, связанных с акне, в шести странах: Бразилия, Германия, Россия, Италия, Канада, Франция. Исследование было выполнено по методу «случай – контроль», когда к группе лиц, страдающих акне, была подобрана контрольная группа. Всего в исследование было включено 6679 человек. Участникам были заданы вопросы о питании, воздействии факторов внешней среды, употреблении вредных веществ (курение табака, марихуаны, алкоголь), применении косметических средств, приеме медикаментов и психологическом состоянии. Для России основными значимыми факторами были (в порядке уменьшения значимости): использование очищающих средств, употребление пробиотиков в капсулах (Lactobacillus), проживание рядом с загруженными автомобильными дорогами, частые регулярные перекусы (бутерброды, сладости), употребление стероидных препаратов или гормональных препаратов, имеющих в своем составе тестостерон, использование скрабов. В сравнении с другими странами факторы были похожими, интересное исключение составили употребление крепкого алкоголя и уровень стресса, которые во всех странах, кроме России, являлись сильными факторами риска.

The study assess factors associated with acne in six countries – Brazil, Germany, Russia, Italy and France. Study design was case – control when to the group of acne patients controls without acne were added. Total number of study participants was 6679. Participants were surveyed on eating habits, contact with external factors, consumption of hazardous substances (tobacco, alcohol and marihuana), use of cosmetics, drugs and psychological status. For Russia main factors associated with acne were (sorted in descending order) use of cleansing substances, use capsule probiotics (Lactobacillus),living in vicinity of busy roads, frequent regular snacks (sandwiches and sweets), use of steroids or other drugs with testosterone, use of scrub. In comparison with other countries factors were similar, but interesting exemption was consumption of strong alcoholic drinks and stress level which were important in all countries, with exception of Russia.
Psychological Characteristics of Children and Adolescents Who Have Undergone COVID-19: Possibilities of Correction
Authors: Бекетова Г.В. , Горячева И.П. , Волосовец А.А. , Мозговая Г.П. , Бекетова Н.В.
Published: March 2022

Статья посвящена актуальным вопросам психологической составляющей долгосрочных последствий постковидного синдрома у детей и подростков с описанием наиболее частых текущих и остаточных проявлений инфекции SARS-CoV-2, анализом особенностей эмоционального и поведенческого здоровья детей и подростков. В работе проанализированы современные подходы и рекомендации по изменению образа жизни и психологическому сопровождению пациентов с устранением стрессовых факторов и повышением стрессоустойчивости организма. Приведены основные симптомы и признаки, связанные с эмоциональными и поведенческими реакциями на стресс у детей и подростков. Обоснована необходимость интеграции подходов по сохранению их эмоционального и поведенческого здоровья в стандартную педиатрическую помощь, раннего выявления и психологической коррекции симптомов постковидного синдрома и присущих ему проявлений стресса, а также повышения стрессоустойчивости детей и подростков с использованием физиологических подходов микронутриентной коррекции препаратами биоорганического магния.

The article is about topical issues of the psychological features of the long-term consequences of post-COVID syndrome in children and adolescents. We have described the most frequent residual manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection alongside with an analysis of the characteristics of the emotional and behavioral health of children and adolescents. The authors of article have analyzed modern approaches and recommendations for changing the lifestyle, psychological support of patients with the elimination of stress factors and body stress resistance increase. Also in article are presented main symptoms and signs associated with emotional and behavioral responses to stress in children and adolescents. The necessity of early detection and psychological correction of the symptoms of post-COVID syndrome and its inherent stress manifestations is substantiated as well as the stress resistance increase using physiological approaches of micronutrient correction with bioorganic magnesium substances.
Leadership of the Golkar Party after the New Order (Comparative Study of Leadership Patterns of Akbar Tandjung [Period 1999-2004] and Muhammad Jusuf Kalla [Period 2004-2009] in the Golkar Party)
Authors: Nurcholifah Nurcholifah
Published: March 2022

In this study, the author focuses on the discussion on the leadership of the former chairman of the Golkar Party, Akbar Tandjung, who was the general chairman of the Golkar Party for the 1999-2004 period and Muhammad Jusuf Kalla, who was the general chairman of the Golkar Party for the 2004-2009 period. This the author does so that the discussion becomes the focus and does not expand to a longer period due to the limitations of the author. This study uses a qualitative approach, using the results of interviews as the primary source. The secondary sources were obtained from various literatures, both from books, magazines, and articles on the internet. Interviews were conducted with the two figures, namely Akbar Tandjung and Jusuf Kalla using an interview guide (interview guide). This is done by the author so that the interview does not expand to things outside the discussion and becomes a focus on the core problems that want to be analyzed in this thesis. Based on the results of the research and analysis that the authors have done, it can be concluded that Akbar Tandjung's leadership style is more paternalistic. This can be seen from how Akbar Tandjung made decisions regarding the policies of the Golkar Party which prioritized harmony among fellow administrators by involving many seniors to get direction. Meanwhile, Jusuf Kalla's leadership style is democratic. Jusuf Kalla's background as an entrepreneur is not surprising if the policies taken by Jusuf Kalla are efficient, straightforward, and straightforward.