bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructural Evaluation of Similar and Dissimilar Welding of Aluminum Metal Matrix Hybrid Composite by Friction Stir Welding
Authors: Sekar Kannan , Vasanthakumar Pandian
Published: March 2020

To address the challenges of reducing the CO2 emission in automotives, Aluminum metal matrix hybrid composites have been extensively used in automotive and aerospace industries for the fabrication of light weight structure. Huge demand in joining dissimilar metals increased day by day, because it reduces the weight and cost of components by utilizing hybrid structures. The friction stir welding is adopted for dissimilar AA5754 rheo-squeeze cast (RSC) with AA7075 stir casted hybrid composite. Micro sized B4C and nanosized Al2O3 are reinforced into this material. Friction stir welding of these alloys by varying the tool material, pin and shoulder profiles, rotational speed, tool traverse speed and tilt angle. Microstructure of the joint are studied and inferences drawn are presented. The better welding was obtained with triangular and square pin profile when compared to cylindrical pin whereas triangular pin profile was more better than square pin. Tapered shoulder possessed greater strength, which resulted in a good weld in contrast to flat shoulder. The high carbon high chromium steel (HCHCr) tool exhibited a higher tool wear rate than stainless steel (SS) tool and found to be an appropriate one to weld aluminum hybrid composite.
Experimental Studies on the Effect of Drilling Parameters on Monel Alloy
Authors: Jayakumar K. , Koundinya K. Akash , Jayakumar T. , Harshal M. , Gopinath G.
Published: March 2020

Monel K-500 is a Nickel based super alloy which have superlative properties such as high strength, resistance to corrosion, retention of mechanical properties at service temperature and structural stability. It finds wide application in aerospace application, nuclear reactor, gas turbines, submarines, combustion engine exhaust valve, petro chemical components, heat exchanger, etc. However, during machining of super alloys, difficulties are there due to its low thermal conductivity and work hardening effect. Challenges in conventional machining can be minimized by using suitable machining as well as process parameters. Among the different machining processes, not much work has been initiated on drilling of above super alloys. Normally, drilled holes are used in screws, bolts, shafts, steam pipes, fitting of furniture and other equipments. By considering the applications and difficulties in machining of super alloys, drilling experiment is selected on Monel K-500. Experiments were conducted as per Taguchi’s L9 orthogonal array using process parameters such as different drill tool material, drilling speed, feed and cutting fluids and Surface roughness and MRR values were measured as output responses. Effect of selected process parameters on the above machinability responses were analyzed. Optimum process parameters were identified to improve the machinability of Monel K-500.
Turning Experiments on Al/B4C Metal Matrix Nanocomposites
Authors: Poovazhgan Lakshmanan
Published: March 2020

In recent years, aluminum alloys reinforced with nanosized ceramic particulates are finding wider applications in various engineering industries like automobile, aircraft, electronics and sports. The requirement of accurate machining of nanocomposite has also gets increased. In this research work, aluminum alloy 6061 reinforced with 1.5 Wt. % of nanoB4C particulate was fabricated in cylindrical shape using ultrasonication assisted casting process. Medium duty lathe with poly crystalline diamond insert tool of 1600 grade was used to turn the Al/B4C nanocomposites. During turning of Al/B4C nanocomposites, cutting parameters like depth of cut, speed and feed were varied as per predefined level. Surface roughness of machined surface and power consumption during machining were measured using surface roughness tester and wattmeter respectively. ANOVA analysis was carried out and the optimum parameters for machining the nanocomposite were found out using MINITAB software. The nanocomposite machined with optimum parameters show good surface finish and consumed minimum power.
Synthesis of TiO2 Nanoparticles Using Acinetobacter baumanii for Photocatalytic Application
Authors: Nagalakshmi M. , Anusuya N. , Karuppuchamy S.
Published: March 2020

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles have been successfully prepared by biological method and the resulting material was characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM, EDAX and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The synthesized TiO2 materials successfully degraded the methylene blue dye (MB) under UV light irradiation.
Electrodeposition of CuI Thin Film for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Karuppusamy I. , Ramachandran K. , Karuppuchamy S.
Published: March 2020

The CuI thin film has been successfully prepared by using cathodic electrodeposition method. The synthesized film was characterized using advanced techniques such as XRD, SEM-EDX and UV measurements. The films are crystallized in face centered cubic structure. The crystallinity is increasing for the applied potential of-0.3 V and the crystallinity deteriorates on increasing the potential above - 0.3 V. It was also observed that the applied voltage plays an important role. Homogeneously distributed triangular faceted morphology was observed from SEM. This is consistent with the result of XRD that electrodeposited CuI thin films grow preferential orientation along the (111) crystal plane.
Delonix Regia Fruit Fibers: A New Potential Source of Cellulosic Fibers
Authors: Kaurase Kalpit P. , Singh Dalbir
Published: March 2020

Lignocellulosic fibers have attracted the attention of researchers, academicians and industries in recent years. These fibers have several advantages as compared to conventionally used fibers such as availability in abundance in nature as it can be extracted from almost every plants, biodegradability, environmental friendliness, high specific strength, etc. Cellulose content of fiber depends on the chemical constituents of the source plant from which it is extracted hence it becomes necessary to understand the constituents of lignocellulosic fibers before its application. In this paper, a new source (Delonix Regia Fruit) of cellulosic fibers has been evaluated and chemical constituents of Delonix Regia fruit fiber has been compared with several lignocellulosic plant fibers. Also, Delonix Regia Fruit fibers are presented as a new source of cellulose and Chemical methods are used for extraction of cellulose from it. Chemically Treated and untreated fibers are characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) to understand the effect of chemical treatment, properties of the cellulose yield. From the results compositional analysis it can be seen that Delonix Regia fruit fibers have 66.9% cellulose content which is very high as compared to most of the popular sources which makes it suitable and cost effective to extract cellulose from it and can be used in biocomposites and bionanocomposites. Analysis of FT-IR spectra of untreated and chemically treated Delonix Regia Fruit Fibers revealed the removal of hemi-cellulose and lignin by chemical treatments followed. TGA-DTG results proved that highly purified yield of cellulose is successfully extracted by the chemical route followed.
Machining of TiB2- SiC Ceramic Composites through WEDM Process
Authors: Jayakumar K.
Published: March 2020

In the present study Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) technique is used to synthesis of particulate Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs). SPS is a type of hot pressing method and in this method, the rate of heating is from 100C to 1000C per minute with high densification. TiB2 (average size of 14 μm) particles were chosen as matrix and SiC (average size of 1 μm) particles were used as reinforcement. In the first stage of the study, synthesis of CMCs with TiB2 matrix and SiC reinforcement with varying volume% (0, 5, 10 and 15 vol.%) was carried out using Spark Plasma Sintering furnace available at IIT Madras in 1100°C, 40MPa and 10 min hold of time. But machining of CMCs from conventional machining processes is difficult especially to make complex and precise parts from CMCs. Hence, in the second stage of the work, Wire Electric Discharge Machining (WEDM) studies were carried out on the processed four composites by varying current (2, 3 and 4 A), Pulse on (Ton-30, 60 and 90 μs) and Pulse off time (Toff-5, 10 and 15 μs) as per Taguchi L9 orthogonal array. WEDM studies revealed that at 4A current, 60μs Ton and 5μs Toff gave maximum material removal rate (MRR) of 2.93 mm3/s, 2.27 mm3/s, 2.71 mm3/s and 0.62 mm3/s for CMC with 0% SiC, 5% SiC, 10% SiC, 15% SiC vol.% reinforcement respectively. To reduce material wastage during machining, kerf width is considered and in which 3A current, 90μs Ton and 5μs Toff gave the least kerf of 0.35 mm, 0.32 mm, 0.33 mm and 0.28 mm for 0% SiC, 5% SiC, 10% SiC, 15% SiC vol.% reinforcement respectively.
Optimizing Ultrasonic Power on Fabricating Aluminum Nanocomposites Reinforced with Boron Carbide Nanoparticles
Authors: Poovazhgan Lakshmanan , Vijayananth Suyamburajan , Sivaganesan S.
Published: March 2020

In this work, aluminum (Al) alloy reinforced with boron carbide (B4C) nanoparticles were fabricated using ultrasonic assisted casting process. To investigate the effect of ultrasonic power on processing the metal matrix nanocomposites (MMNCs), the MMNC samples were processed with 1.0 kW, 1.5 kW and 2.0 kW of ultrasonic power. The results indicate that the ultrasonic power play a significant role in dispersing the B4C nanoparticles uniformly in Al melt and it also affects the mechanical properties of the fabricated MMNCs. From microstructural analysis it was observed that the MMNC sample processed with 2.0 kW ultrasonic powers possessed the good dispersion of B4C in the Al melt which is the prime criteria for the good mechanical properties.
Optimization of Wire Electrical Discharge Machining Parameters of Activated Carbon Reinforced Aluminium Composite
Authors: Ramanan G. , Kiran Reddy M.Madhu , Manishankar V.
Published: March 2020

The quality of machining through process parameters on the responses in wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) is studied. This paper discusses the optimization of parameters of a process in WEDM machining with the application of the desirability approach on the basis of response surface methodology (RSM). Pulse on time, servo speed rate, discharge current, and pulse off time have been considered as influential factors. The established experimental data of AA7075 aluminium reinforced with 9% of activated carbon composite to analyze the process parameter effects on responses, like material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness (SR). After machining multiple regression analysis is used to find the interaction among the process parameters is obtained. The optimal parameters were found using the desirability optimization methodologies as 10.43mm3/min and 3.32μm respectively. The performance of the optimization test confirmed that the proposed method in this study effectively improves the performance of the WEDM process.
Experimental Investigation of Mechanical Properties of Ceramic Reinforced Al-7075 Metal Matrix Hybrid Composites
Authors: Srinivas K. Sudhindra , Mohan M. Murali
Published: March 2020

The epidemic adoption of particulate metal matrix composites (MMCs) for engineering applications has been delay by the high cost of producing components of even minimally complex shape. The aluminum-based composites find its applications widely in transport, aerospace, marine, automobile and mineral processing industries, owing to their improved strength, stiffness and wear resistance properties. This paper, presents the overview of the addition of different reinforcements to aluminium alloy. The reinforcements are added to the Al7075 by using stir casting method. Effect of these reinforcements like Titanium carbide (TiC) and silicon (Si) influencing on the mechanical properties like tensile strength, hardness was studied. Research relevant to these factors which influence particles distribution were noticed by conducting the experimental studies of Al7075 hybrid composites.The mechanical properties and the microstructure of Al–TiC-Si metal matrix composite has shown the significant improvement in Hardness and Tensile strength, with increase in TiC and Si particles in weight percentage of composites.
The doctor as the patient educator
Authors: Sathiadas M. G.
Published: March 2020

No abstract available
Simple visual, choice and discrimination reaction times of young adults and correlation with intelligence quotient and working memory
Authors: Sooriyakanthan M. , Aravinthan V. , Kajananan S. , Thuvaraga P. , Nimalan S. , Sivapalan K.
Published: March 2020

Reaction time (RT) is important in learning. Relationship of RT to Intelligent Quotient (IQ) and Working Memory (WM) has not been studied in Sri Lankans. To measure the visual RT(VRT), discrimination RT (DRT) and choice RT (CRT) of young adults and to correlate these reaction times (RTs) to IQ and WM. A cross sectional study was conducted among 200 volunteers (18-28 years). RTs were measured using the “reaction timer software” developed locally. WM was assessed using “digit span backward test (DSBT)”. IQ was assessed using Raven’s standard progressive matrices (RSPM). Mean, SD of VRT, CRT and DRT in males were 292.85±32.88ms, 395.75±75.62ms and 407.45±82.11ms respectively. The respective values in females were 317.85±43.15ms, 452.68±96.47ms and 454.26±93.5ms. RTs were faster (p<0.05) in males. VRT was faster (p<0.05) than CRT and DRT in both sexes. CRT and DRT did not differ significantly in both sexes (p>0.05). Mean IQ scores of males and females were 52.17± 6.2 and 51.74±6.2. Respective DSBT scores were 7.55±1.62 and 7.64±1.33. IQ and DSBT scores were not differed (p>0.05) between sexes. RTs had negative correlations with IQ and DSBT score. Only the correlations of IQ with VRT of males (-0.203) and DRT (-0.225) and CRT (-0.235) of females were significant (p<0.05). Significant negative correlation (-0.293) of DSBT score was observed with DRT of females only. RTs were shorter in males. IQ and WM capacity showed negative correlations with RTs. Further studies are necessary to assess the contribution of the processing speed on the IQ and WMC.
Two minutes Talk Therapy (TTT): A tool to improve medication adherence of Sri Lankan hypertensives
Authors: Kumanan T.
Published: March 2020

No abstract available
Acute fatty liver of pregnancy in postpartum - an uncommon time of presentation
Authors: Powthira R. , Peranantharajah T. , Sureshkumar K.
Published: March 2020

Acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP) is an obstetric emergency can result in maternal and fetal complications including death. The exact pathology of disease is unknown but abnormality in the fatty acid metabolism play an important role. The disease usually affects in third trimester and immediate postpartum (1). The diagnosis of AFLP usually based on clinical presentation and compatible laboratory finding. Intensive care unit admission with supportive management and immediate delivery irrespective of gestational age are main stay of treatment (2). We report a case of 26-year-old mother who was diagnosed with AFLP in second day of postpartum.
LA STRAGE DI PIAZZA FONTANA
Authors: Ventrone Angelo
Published: March 2020

Qual è il significato della strage di Piazza Fontana nella recente storia italiana? Innanzitutto, un insieme di cesure che segnano profondamente il rapporto tra i cittadini e lo Stato. In particolare, l'emergere di una violenza politica radicale, insieme al coinvolgimento degli apparati statali nella sua attuazione, e la diffusione di un forte sentimento di sfiducia nei confronti della classe politica dominante (sempre più implicata nella cosiddetta trame nere) e delle istituzioni. In quel momento inizia un processo di delegittimazione, che ha colpito in primo luogo la classe politica dominante, ma che nella seconda metà degli anni Settanta si ripercuoterà sempre più anche sui partiti dell'opposizione, considerati ugualmente incapaci di fermare il degrado del Paese. Una parte significativa dell'opinione pubblica comincerà allora a guardare ai settori più attivi e anticonformisti della magistratura nella speranza di far luce su ciò che è oscuro sullo sfondo della Repubblica. Un auspicio che rappresenta un'esplicita richiesta alla magistratura di svolgere un ruolo di sostituzione e di controllo su un mondo politico ormai considerato chiuso in sé, non di rado corrotto e privilegiato, e comunque lontano dal "Paese reale".
LO STATO ATTUALE DEI GHIACCIAI ITALIANI E LA LORO RECENTE EVOLUZIONE
Authors: Smiraglia Claudio , Diolaiuti, et al. (#) Guglielmina Adele
Published: March 2020

Mountain glaciers represent an important hydrological and touristic resource, and their recent evolution provides a dramatic evidence of climate change for the general public. Glacier inventories, quantifying glacier characteristics and evolution, are an important tool to describe and manage high mountain glacier environments and Italy has developed a long tradition in this sector. Our country was the first to provide itself with a glacier inventory, compiled by Comitato Glaciologico Italiano and CNR, showing a glacier surface of 530 km2. A recent project, coordinated by UniversitÃ  Statale di Milano with the support of private bodies and the cooperation of Comitato EvK2CNR and Comitato Glaciologico Italiano, led to the development of the new Italian Glacier Inventory, a national atlas produced from the analysis of color orthophotos at high resolution acquired between 2005 and 2011. The New Italian Glacier Inventory lists 903 glaciers, covering an area of 370 km2. The largest part of glacier area is located in Val dâ€™Aosta (36.15% of the total), followed by Lombardia and South Tyrol. 84% of glaciers (considering the number of glaciers) have an area lower than 0.5 km2 and jointly account for 21% of the total glacier surface. Glaciers larger than 1 Km2 make up 9.4% of the total number, but cover 67.8% of the total glacier area. The comparison between data from the New Italian Glacier Inventory and the CGI-CNR inventory (1959-1962) shows a 30% reduction in glacier area in Italy; considering instead the World Glacier Inventory or WGI, published at the end of the â€˜80s, which reported 1381 glaciers and an area of 609 km2, glacier loss sums up to 478 glaciers and an area of 239 km2 (-39%). This shrinkage has led to rapid and significant changes to high mountain landscapes, notably glacier fragmentation, an increase in deglaciated areas, the formation of proglacial lakes and the development of pioneer vegetation.
ORDER, DISORDER AND PHASE TRANSITIONS IN QUANTUM MANY BODY SYSTEMS
Authors: Giuliani Alessandro
Published: March 2020

In this paper, I give an overview of some selected results in quantum many body theory, lying at the interface between mathematical quantum statistical mechanics and condensed matter theory. In particular, I discuss some recent results on the universality of transport coecients in lattice models of interacting electrons, with specic focus on the in- dependence of the quantum Hall conductivity from the electron-electron interaction. In this context, the exchange of ideas between mathematical and theoretical physics proved particu- larly fruitful, and helped in clarifying the role played by quantum conservation laws (Ward Identities), together with the decay properties of the Euclidean current-current correlation functions, on the interaction-independence of the conductivity.
Investigating selective media for optimal isolation of Brucella spp. in South Africa
Authors: Ledwaba Maphuti B. , Ndumnego Okechukwu C. , Matle Itumeleng , Gelaw Awoke K. , Van Heerden Henriette
Published: March 2020

Bovine brucellosis in South Africa is caused mainly by Brucella abortus biovar (bv.) 1 and less frequently by B. abortus bv. 2. Bacterial isolation is regarded as the gold standard for diagnosis of Brucella species; however, it is not very sensitive. The aim of this study was to determine the selective medium with optimum antibiotic composition that will allow the growth of Brucella species (spp.) while inhibiting moulds, yeast and most, if not all, Gram-negative contaminants in South Africa. In the controlled experiment, modified Agrifood Research and Technology Center of Aragon (CITA) medium (mCITA) seemed to be the optimum selective medium for isolation of Brucella spp. as compared with Farrell’s medium (FM) and modified Thayer Martin (mTM), while FM inhibited the growth of most fungal and bacterial contaminants. Mean comparison between the three media used to culture B. abortus resulted in lower mean difference ranging from 0 to 2.33. In case of Brucella ovis, high mean difference was obtained when comparing FM with mCITA (10.33) and mTM (12). However, the mean differences of 0.67 and 1.67 were obtained when comparing mCITA and mTM media used to, respectively, culture pasteurised and raw milk spiked with B. ovis. Further optimisation at the Agricultural Research Council – Onderstepoort Veterinary Research Institute resulted in a comparable performance between FM and mCITA; however, mCITA allowed optimal growth of the fastidious B. ovis, which is generally inhibited on FM. Generally, mCITA seemed to be the optimum selective medium for isolation of Brucella spp., while FM inhibits the growth of most fungal and bacterial contaminants. Thus, veterinary laboratories can use mCITA and/or FM but should take into consideration the detection of factious Brucella isolated in the country or region.
Peer-learning reviews to improve Gauteng community-oriented primary care: Findings from AitaHealth™-enabled ward-based outreach teams
Authors: Marcus Tessa S. , Reji Elizabeth , Ngcobo Sanele
Published: March 2020

Background: In 2016 the Gauteng Department of Health engaged University of Pretoria Family Medicine to provide` education, training and information and communication technology support for the phased scale-up of ward-based outreach teams (WBOTs) through community-oriented primary care (ICT-enabled COPC). As in all service delivery, quality assurance is essential. In contemporary best practice, it brings together peer-to-peer learning and quality improvement (QI) in what is termed here as peer-learning reviews (PLRs).Aim: To assess implementation fidelity and assure the quality of community-based healthcare services.Setting: This study was conducted in two districts of Gauteng province, South Africa.Methods: A 3-day PLR of paired WBOTs was conducted by multi-disciplinary teams of academics, partners and site-selected healthcare practitioners. Guided by a benchmark survey distilled from the seven COPC practice elements, they conducted individual interviews, accompanied WBOT members in field and facilitated solution-focused peer exchange workshops with all participants.Results: At all sites there was clear evidence of achievements and practical challenges with respect to mapping; support, networks and partnerships; infrastructure and functional equipment; work integrated learning; data and service activities; and performance status and management. Methodologically, PLRs supported inclusive, context-specific learning for all along the healthcare service pathway. They generated action plans derived from shared understanding and joint decision-making.Conclusion: The PLRs and the implementation results demonstrate the importance of structuring learning into service and research. Both helped develop participants’ abilities to understand what they do, do their work, grow their sense of self-worth and improve their relationship with others.
Table of Contents Vol 45 (2019)
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: March 2020

No abstract available.
Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein (MOG)-IgG Associated Demyelinating Disease
Authors: Pujari Shripad S. , Kulkarni Rahul V. , Nadgir Dattatraya B. , Ojha Pawan K. , Nagendra Shashank , Aglave Vikram , Nadgir Rashmi D. , Sant Hemant , Palasdeokar Nilesh , Nirhale Satish , Bandishti Sunil
Published: March 2020

Background:

Discovery of serum myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody testing in demyelination segregated MOG-IgG disease from AQ-4-IgG positive NMOSD.

Aims:

To study clinico-radiological manifestations, pattern of laboratory and electrophysiological investigations and response to treatment through follow up in MOG-IgG positive patients.

Method:

Retrospective data of MOG-IgG positive patients was collected. Demographics, clinical manifestations at onset and at follow up and relapses, anti AQ-4-IgG status, imaging and all investigations were performed, treatment of relapses and further immunomodulatory therapy were captured.

Results:

In our 30 patients, F: M ratio was 2.75:1 and adult: child ratio 4:1. Relapses at presentation were optic neuritis {ON}(60%), longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis {LETM}(20%), acute disseminated encephalomyelitis {ADEM}(13.4%), simultaneous ON with myelitis (3.3%) and diencephalic Syndrome (3.3%). Salient MRI features were ADEM-like lesions, middle cerebellar peduncle fluffy infiltrates, thalamic and pontine lesions and longitudinally extensive ON {LEON} as well as non-LEON. Totally, 50% patients had a relapsing course. Plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin worked in patients who showed a poor response to intravenous methylprednisolone. Prednisolone, Azathioprine, Mycophenolate and Rituximab were effective attack preventing agents.

Conclusions:

MOG-IgG related manifestations in our cohort were monophasic/recurrent/simultaneous ON, myelitis, recurrent ADEM, brainstem encephalitis and diencephalic Syndrome. MRI features suggestive of MOG-IgG disease were confluent ADEM-like lesions, middle cerebellar peduncle fluffy lesions, LETM, LEON and non-LEON. Where indicated, patients need to go on immunomodulation as it has a relapsing course and can accumulate significant disability. Because of its unique manifestations, it needs to be considered as a distinct entity. To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest series of MOG-IgG disease reported from India.
Effects of Depression, Anxiety, Stigma, and Disclosure on Health-Related Quality of Life among Chronic Hepatitis B Patients in Dalian, China
Authors: Li Ge , Wang Gongchen , Hsu Fang-Chi , Xu Jianzhao , Pei Xia , Zhao Bo , Shetty Avinash
Published: March 2020

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major public health problem in China. We evaluated the impact of psychosocial factors (stigma, disclosure, depression, and anxiety) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among people living with chronic HBV infection (CHB) in the city of Dalian, Liaoning Province, China. In this hospital-based cross-sectional study, 401 patients living with chronic HBV infection were enrolled as study participants. Study measures included the Beck depression and anxiety inventory, the WHO Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) assessment, the Toronto Chinese HBV Stigma Scale, and disclosure of HBV status to sexual partners. The primary outcome was HRQoL score as measured by the WHOQOL-BREF. A linear regression model was used to examine the association between HRQoL and the potential risk factors including stigma, disclosure, depression, anxiety, and sociodemographic variables. Stigma, disclosure, depression, and anxiety were the covariates of interest. A majority of the participants were females (n = 251, 65.6%), married (81.6%), and had a college or higher degree (32.4%). Depression, anxiety, stigma, and disclosure of HBV infection were associated with low HRQoL in all four domains of the WHOQOL-BREF (physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains) (P < 0.05), when all psychological factors were included in the model separately. Depression was found to be independently associated with low HRQoL in people living with HBV, when all psychological factors were included in the model simultaneously (P < 0.0001). Our data indicate the urgent need for healthcare providers (HCPs) and policy-makers to implement psychological interventions to improve HRQoL among people living with CHB.
A Primary Care–Based Quality Improvement Initiative to Increase Identification of Pediatric International Travelers
Authors: Campbell Jeffrey I. , Alonso Andrea , Cuttin Karen , Sanchez Miralia , Schumacher Sandra , Ozonoff Al , Epee-Bounya Alexandra , Sharma Tanvi , Antkowiak Lara
Published: March 2020

Children who travel internationally to visit friends and relatives (VFRs) are at risk for travel-related illness, but underuse pretravel health services. Although primary care clinics can identify travelers and address pretravel health needs, to date, there are few published reports on effective primary care–based pretravel interventions. We developed a quality improvement initiative to increase traveler identification at a primary care clinic serving families that frequently travel to VFRs. Interventions included a screening question asked at all clinic visits, provider and staff training, travel fliers, and health recommendation sheets for families. Interventions were implemented during 2017 and 2018 peak travel seasons. Travel visit rates and characteristics during the intervention period were compared with pre-intervention baseline periods (April–August, 2015–16). Surveys with providers were conducted to assess disruptiveness of the interventions, and rates of duplicate travel visits were assessed. A total of 738 unique travel events were identified during peak travel seasons from 2015 to 2018, encompassing travel to 29 countries across five continents. Overall, there were 428 unique travel events (3.0% of all clinic visits) during peak seasons 2017–18, compared with 310 unique travel events (2.2% of all clinic visits) during peak seasons 2015–16 (rate ratio 1.34 [95% CI: 1.16–1.56], P < 0.001). None of the 18 healthcare providers or staff surveyed found new travel screening processes to be disruptive or bothersome. Implementation of a primary care–based multimodal travel screening and education initiative was associated with a significantly increased rate of travel visits.
Evaluation of microbially Induced calcite precipitation (MICP) methods on different soil types for wind erosion control
Authors: Chae Seung Hee , Chung Hyeonyong , Nam Kyoungphile
Published: March 2020

Application methods (i.e., pouring and mixing method) of Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP) and its effect on wind erosion were investigated on four soil types (i.e., medium sand, fine sand, loamy fine sand and loam). With mixing method, calcite precipitated evenly throughout the upper part (0 - 5 cm) of all the soils tested, but with pouring method, only medium sand showed even calcite distribution. The reason can be ascribed to the limited permeability of MICP-inducing solution (i.e., calcium, urea and Sporosarcina pasteurii) through loamy fine sand and loam due to their low hydraulic conductivity (i.e., < 10-5 cm/s). Moreover, bacterial penetrability was also reduced by calcium (i.e., 70 to 20%) in fine sand. Hence, pouring method for medium sand and mixing method for the others were applied with various MICP-inducing solution concentrations (i.e., 0.1 to 1 M of urea and calcium). When exposed to wind of 15 m/s after MICP application, 0.25 M solution in medium and fine sand, and 0.1 M solution in loamy fine sand and loam showed little or no soil loss. The results suggest that a proper application method be chosen considering soil properties that affect even calcite distribution to mitigate soil erosion.
Optimization and Performance Evaluation of Pilot-scale Electrochemical H2O2 Generator according to Spacer Structure Changes and Catholyte Concentration Condition
Authors: Lee Jin Hee , Han Hee Joo , Lee Jeong Hun , Jang Jung Hwa , Kim Dae Won
Published: March 2020

Objectives:In this study, We developed pilot-scale bipolar-electrochemical generator (or bipolar-electrolyzer) for generating hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). By comparing H2O2 concentration and generation efficiency of H2O2 according to structure and arrangement of anode/cathode spacer, the structure and arrangement of spacer have been optimised for high H2O2 concentration and generation efficiency. Methods:The concentration and generation efficiency of H2O2 were evaluated by changing the width of the channel supporter in anode/cathode spacer and we optimised the arrangement of anode/cathode spacer in electrochemical generator. Additionally, we also evaluated the efficiency of H2O2 generation with different concentration catholyte (Na2SO4).Results and Discussion:The electrochemical H2O2 generator applied anode/cathode supporter with narrow channel supporter showed high H2O2 concentration of 2023.83 mg/L. Electrochemical H2O2 generator with N-C type spacer (anode: no channel supporter, cathode: channel supporter) showed the highest H2O2 concentration (2295.95 mg/L) and H2O2 generation efficiency (86.87%). also, we observed that the electrolyzer with 20 PSU has higher H2O2 concentration (4217.74 mg/L) and generation efficiency (74.80%).Conclusions:As a results, We generated H2O2 with high concentration and high generation efficiency by optimising structure and arrangement of spacer in electrochemical H2O2 generator. Also, We concluded that the developed bioplar-electrochemical generator in our study could be applied to the real industry.
Modelled potential forest area in the forest-steppe of central Mongolia is about three times of actual forest area
Authors: Klinge Michael , Dulamsuren Choimaa , Schneider Florian , Erasmi Stefan , Hauck Markus , Bayarsaikhan Uudus , Sauer Daniela
Published: March 2020

Abstract. The Mongolian forest-steppe is highly sensitive to climate change and environmental impact. The intention of this study was to identify, which geoecological parameters control forest distribution and tree growth in this semi-arid environment, and to evaluate the actual and potential tree biomass. For this purpose, we applied a combination of tree biomass and soil mapping, remote sensing and climate data analysis to a study area in the northern Khangai Mountains, central Mongolia. Forests of different landscape units and site conditions generally showed minor differences in tree biomass. We found no significant correlation between tree biomass and NDVI (normalized differentiated vegetation index). Tree biomass was reduced at forest edges, in small fragmented forest stands of the steppe-dominated area, and in large forest stands, compared to all other forest units. The tree biomass of forests on slopes ranged between 25 and 380 Mg ha−1. The mean tree biomass in forests of 10–500 ha was 199–220 Mg ha−1, whereby tree biomass at the forest edges was 50–63 Mg ha−1 less than in the interior parts of the forests. The mean tree biomass of forests > 500 ha was 182 Mg ha−1, whereas that of forests
Drivers of the spatial phytoplankton gradient in estuarine-coastal systems: generic implications of a case study in a Dutch tidal bay
Authors: Jiang Long , Gerkema Theo , Kromkamp Jacco C. , van der Wal Daphne , Carrasco De La Cruz Pedro Manuel , Soetaert Karline
Published: March 2020

Abstract. As the primary energy and carbon source in aquatic food webs, phytoplankton generally display spatial heterogeneity due to the complicated biotic and abiotic controls, but our understanding of its causes is challenging as it involves multiple regulatory mechanisms. We applied a combination of field observation, numerical modeling, and remote sensing to display and interpret the spatial gradient of phytoplankton biomass in a Dutch tidal bay (the Oosterschelde) on the east coast of the North Sea. The 19-year (1995–2013) monitoring data reveal a seaward increasing trend in chlorophyll a concentrations during the spring bloom. Using a calibrated and validated three-dimensional hydrodynamic-biogeochemical model, two idealized model scenarios were run, switching off the suspension feeders and halving the open-boundary nutrient and phytoplankton loading. Results indicate that bivalve grazing exerts a dominant control on phytoplankton in the bay and that the tidal import mainly influences algal biomass near the mouth. Satellite data substantiate the roles of benthic grazing and tidal import. Based on a literature review, the spatial phytoplankton gradients in global estuarine-coastal ecosystems are classified into five types: seawards increasing, seawards decreasing, concave with a chlorophyll maximum, weak spatial gradients, and irregular patterns. We highlight the temporal variability of these spatial patterns and the importance of anthropogenic and climatic perturbations.
From subduction to collision in the Parautochthon and autochthon of the NW Variscan Iberian Massif
Authors: Rubio Pascual Francisco J. , Martín Parra Luis M. , Valverde-Vaquero Pablo , Díez Montes Alejandro , Hacar Rodríguez Manuel P. , Iglesias Justo , Díez Fernández Rubén , Gallastegui Gloria , Heredia Nemesio , Rodríguez Fernández L. Roberto
Published: March 2020

Abstract. A stacking of nappes forms the Parautochthonous Domain located beneath the Allochthonous Complexes of the NW Iberian Massif. Lower Paleozoic metasedimentary and felsic metavolcanic rocks, including some riebeckite gneiss, form the uppermost nappe of the Parautochthon. Micaschists of this nappe may contain albite porphyroblasts with aligned mineral microinclusions defining a relic internal schistosity. Thermobarometric estimates on the relic mineral assemblage suggest an early M1 stage of High-Pressure, Low-Temperature (HP-LT) metamorphism (11–14 kbar; 450–500 °C), probably related to the same continental subduction process that affected the overlying Lower Allochthon nappes or Basal Units. This uppermost nappe was emplaced onto its relative autochthon by a broad, ductile shear zone that shows top-to-the-E/ENE shear-sense and whose exposure has lateral continuity through to the basal thrust of the Lower Allochthons in the Bragança Complex. The HP-LT metamorphism and its hanging wall position relative to the basal thrust of the Allochthonous Complexes, suggest a re-interpretation of this uppermost parautochthonous nappe as another nappe of the Lower Allochthon. In turn, the other parautochthonous nappes comprise both, Lower Paleozoic pre-orogenic rocks, with no M1 relics, and Upper Paleozoic syn-orogenic rocks. Shear-sense criteria related to the current juxtaposition of the Parautochthon Domain onto the Central Iberian autochthon show contrasting top-to-the-S/SE kinematics. The whole orogenic section was affected by an M2 episode of recrystallization under intermediate P/T conditions during the first stages of collision. P-T estimates on kyanite-bearing schists from the upper sections of the autochthon (9.0 kbar; 425–450 °C) are consistent with a geothermal gradient somewhat lower than the classical Barrovian one at the beginning of collision. Thermobarometric calculations on schists from the lower parautochthonous nappes yield peak metamorphic conditions around 7.5 Kbar and 600–700 °C, constraining the original thickness of the allochthonous/parautochthonous pile to about 22.5–27.0 km. Schists sampled from deeper sections of the autochthon yield M2 conditions around 11–12 kbar and 700–725 °C, matching those registered by correlative regions from Central Iberia. Subsequent M3 syn-collisional recrystallization under High-Temperature and Low-Pressure conditions is associated with top-to-the-N/NW and top-to-the-S/SE extensional flow. The early metamorphic evolution of the autochthons, Parautochthon and Allochthonous Complexes of NW Iberia recorded a transition in P/T regimes and appears as a model case of a change from subduction to collision.
L’invention morale et la sagesse pratique. Une lecture de la petite éthique de Paul Ricoeur
Authors: Pierron Jean-Philippe
Published: March 2020

La petite éthique ricœurienne bouleverse les présentations classiques des différentes éthiques en raison de la place qu’elle donne à l’imagination morale. Difficilement classable dans le panorama des éthiques contemporaine, le projet ricœurien valorise le pluralisme des traditions morales comme des précompréhensions pratiques tout en donnant à la créativité pratique une place de choix. Cette tension des traditions et de l’imagination éthique donne à sa sagesse pratique un caractère dynamique et heuristique. Montrant la fécondité de cette sagesse à l’heure des sociétés marquées par le pluralisme et la complexité, cet article en déploie la portée pratique. Il retient tout d’abord l’analyse des cellules de bons conseils où l’inventivité pratique est mobilisée. Mettant en discussion les travaux de Ricœur et de Nussbaum, il étudie ensuite, dans le cadre de l’économie où le rôle et la place faite au jeu est centrale, la place de l’imagination dans une anthropologie de l’homme capable.
Les risques de la symbolisation du mal. Essai de confrontation entre La Symbolique du mal et La Littérature et le mal
Authors: Costa Cristina Henrique da
Published: March 2020

Cet article compare deux livres majeurs : La Symbolique du mal, de Paul Ricœur et La Littérature et le mal, de Georges Bataille. L’articulation de ces deux penseurs que tout semble opposer répond à l’espoir de dégager une forme de compatibilité productive entre eux à travers leur intérêt commun pour le langage du mal. On insistera tout d’abord sur Ricœur : c’est en reconnaissant que le dire de l’expérience du mal passe d’abord nécessairement par un langage symbolique qu’il nous permet de penser l’insistance de Bataille sur la place de la littérature quant au mal. On montrera ensuite que l’affirmation par Bataille d’une lucidité littéraire moderne du mal, tout en permettant de confirmer les thèses de Ricœur au sujet du caractère à la fois historique et langagier de l’expérience du mal, nous conduit aussi à en formuler la principale conséquence : que le langage du mal, marqué du sceau de la créativité poétique, ne peut sans doute pas être tenu pour achevé. On soulignera enfin l’intérêt de cette approche pour interpréter, avec la littérature, les nouvelles expériences du mal aujourd’hui.
Empirically Supported Strategies for Encouraging Critical Thinking
Authors: McCrackin Sarah D.
Published: March 2020

Critical thinking is the ability to construct and evaluate arguments (Facione, 1990). Teaching students to think critically is undeniably one of the most important goals of university education. Accordingly, much of the teaching literature provides suggestions for improving critical thinking among students. Unfortunately, many of these papers contain anecdotal evidence, relying heavily on personal testimony without the support of empirical data and statistical analysis (Abrami et al., 2008; Behar-Horenstein & Niu, 2011). These findings have important implications for instructors who try to foster critical thinking in their classrooms. The present workshop addresses this problem by discussing the following three teaching techniques which have been empirically tested and found to reliably improve critical thinking across multiple investigations: (a) the use of higher-order questioning (Barnett & Francis, 2012; Fenesi, Sana, & Kim, 2014; Renaud & Murray, 2007; Renaud & Murray, 2008; Smith, 1977; Williams, Oliver, & Stockdale, 2004); (b) peer-to-peer interaction (Abrami et al., 2008; Smith, 1997); and (c) explicit critical thinking instruction (Abrami et al., 2008; Bangert-Drowns, & Bankert, 1990; Behar-Horenstein et al., 2010; Tiruneh et al., 2016).

This workshop is intended for members of all disciplines seeking to work together to develop an empirically supported framework for teaching critical thinking at the university level.
Quantitatively Assessing the Success of Your Critical Thinking Teaching Strategies
Authors: McCrackin Sarah D.
Published: March 2020

The teaching literature contains a wealth of articles discussing the success of interventions designed to foster critical thinking. However, most of these articles describe qualitative assessments of critical thinking interventions, with very few quantitative assessments (Abrami et al., 2008). While both qualitative and quantitative methods have unique value, there is a need for quantitative data to supplement qualitative claims that various strategies for teaching critical thinking are successful. The goal of this workshop is to provide a framework that members of all disciplines can use to quantitatively assess the success of critical thinking interventions in their own classroom. Participants will learn about common research approaches and assessments that have been used in published quantitative studies on critical thinking. They will also learn strategies for assessing the experimental rigor of previous critical thinking research and will work together to create a plan to apply this knowledge in their own classrooms.
A Criação do imaginário em narrativas de estudantes brasileiros: perspectivas a partir das Olimpíadas de Língua Portuguesa
Authors: Valério Gleiser Mateus Ferreira
Published: March 2020

Em O fictício e o imaginário, Iser parte da distinção entre realidade e ficcional, abrindo espaço para um terceiro elemento - o imaginário.  Para tal, converte-o em experiência do que o autor denomina em um "como se". Por meio de escolhas, o indivíduo seleciona as "chaves" de leitura que utilizará para perceber e receber o texto literário e, deste modo, conceber suas próprias narrativas. Pelo imaginário, o texto se torna algo possível e desenvolve o processo representativo. No presente artigo, a categoria lugar será uma destas “chaves”, partindo das Olimpíadas de Língua Portuguesa (OLP). Durante a realização do concurso, os estudantes participam de um processo pedagógico que se utiliza da Literatura como forma do jovem perceber o “ser” e o “estar no mundo”, partindo de seu lugar (espacial e de fala) no qual se situa para criar narrativas pessoais. Para tal, a OLP tem como tema "O lugar onde vivo", sendo assim, um elemento de seleção é instaurado para o processo criativo que é o espaço vivenciado e experimentado pelo educando. Nesta análise, será utilizado, como base, o poema "As Marias do meu lugar", selecionado e publicizado nas coletâneas de poemas do projeto, ao lado de autores como Carlos Drummond Andrade e Fernando Pessoa, dando um caráter de escrita autoral à produção juvenil. O objetivo não será apenas questionar o processo criativo, mas também trazer o elemento local como potencializador do imaginário ao descrever um espaço fora dos grandes centros ou de capitais – a individualidade de uma pequena cidade do interior do Nordeste brasileiro, seu povo e suas particularidades.
A educação de surdos: proposta de questionário de histórico da linguagem
Authors: Pereira Lidiane de Lemos Soares , Curado Thalita Costa , Benite Anna Maria Canavarro
Published: March 2020

A educação de surdos tem sido uma temática bastante explorada após o reconhecimento da Libras como língua de sinais oficialmente brasileira. Entretanto, muitos surdos por diversos motivos, chegam ao ensino médio sem o conhecimento satisfatório dessa língua natural deles. Sendo assim, esta pesquisa participante teve como objetivo elaborar uma proposta de um questionário de histórico da linguagem, no intuito de auxiliar professores a diagnosticarem o perfil bilíngue de surdos, de modo que, possam compreender melhor as necessidades desses alunos e venham a contribuir para uma educação de qualidade e desenvolvimento desses alunos. No artigo, apresentamos algumas definições acerca do bilinguismo e problematizamos o conceito do surdo como um indivíduo bilíngue. Em seguida, apresentamos nosso caminho da pesquisa que inclui a discussão do uso do questionário de histórico da linguagem, como instrumento de coleta de dados para o diagnóstico do perfil bilíngue dos surdos. Nossos participantes foram seis alunos surdos da cidade X, do estado X e os dados foram coletados durante o ano de 2016. Nossos resultados, a partir da aplicação do questionário, permitem concluir que a educação dos surdos é um processo complexo e por isso se faz necessário que nos estudos que permeiam o ensino e aprendizagem dos surdos, seja incluído um estudo do perfil bilíngue destes indivíduos como forma de captar as nuances e diagnosticar problemas que cercam os processos envolvidos na educação dos surdos.