bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technological Adaptation of Internal Dumping to the Operating Mode of Open Pit when Developing Inclined and Steeply Dipping Coal Seams Strata
Authors: Selyukov Alexei
Published: October 2021

With surface mining of inclined and steeply dipping coal deposits, the so-called deeping longitudinal mining methods with a gradual deepening of mining from the surface to the final depth are widely spread, while orienting the mining front along the strike line of the seams (strata). When using such mining methods, the volumes of internal dumping are limited or completely absent; there is a peak-like increase in overburden volumes and transportation distance, the land resources disturbing proceeds at a progressive pace. In this regard, it is obvious that an important production task is to find technological solutions and methods to develop coal deposits that reduce the environmental hazard and increase resource conservation in mining by placing overburden in the mined-out space while reducing the area for external dumps and disturbing the earth's surface. If this is not foreseen at the present time, then all coal surface mines in the coming decades will be limited by their own external dumps of overburden, and their further development will be problematic.
Comparative assessment of the operation quality of shovel-truck systems at open-pit coal mines in the summer and transitional seasons
Authors: Voronov Anton , Nesterov Valery , Voronov Yuri , Voronov Artyom
Published: October 2021

The operation quality of shovel-truck systems (STSs) at open-pit coal mines in the summer and transitional autumn-spring periods differs markedly. This is due to a decrease in the speed of haul trucks during the transitional season compared to the summer season. This leads to an increase in the travel time of trucks. Shovels and trucks must work longer to ensure the planned volumes of loading and transportation and the required number of hauls. Consequently, the duration of the working shift (or day) increases. This leads to deterioration in the STS performance in the autumn-spring period. A quantitative assessment of changes in the STS operation quality will reveal the directions of its improvement.
On the organization of excavation and transportation equipment in the coal-bearing zones at open pit mines
Authors: Tyulenev Maxim , Markov Sergey , Litvin Oleg , Cehlár Michal , Litvin Yaroslav
Published: October 2021

One of the essential issues of the benches’ development procedure is the choice of the method of seam development in the complex structure: joint development of rock and coal seams in one complex face or their separate excavation in blocks of 50-100 m in length. The decision of this question is connected with the mode of mining works, represented by the schedule of stripping and winning works. The choice of one or another method is connected with operative-dispatching control of haul trucks delivery. When rock and coal are mined together in a complex face, overburden haul trucks should be supplied for loading rock and coal haul trucks for coal in turns. It is organizationally difficult to supply haul trucks of different purposes during the shift. It is necessary to proceed from the shift (daily) planning of haul trucks supply for specific faces. In addition, it is necessary to take into account that rock and coal faces are often located on opposite sides of the quarry pit. This article studies the issue of organizing the operation of excavation and loading equipment during the mining of the coal-bearing zone of the open pit in order to reduce the loss of output of haul trucks.
To the issue of monitoring the length of degasification boreholes
Authors: Rout Gennadii , Tailakov Oleg , Zastrelov Denis , Kolesnichenko Sergey
Published: October 2021

Based on the application of the echolocation method, the length of degassing wells at the coal mine of the Leninsky geological and economic district of Kuzbass, drilled into the coal seam from mining workings, was measured. Recommendations for the effective use of geophysical equipment for monitoring the state of degassing wells in coal mines are justified and formed. The results of measurements of the length of horizontal degassing wells drilled from mine workings, as well as the methane content in them, are presented. Software has been developed to refine the performed measurements of the length of degassing wells, which allows you to quickly determine the length of degassing wells with satisfactory accuracy. The results of the well length processed with the help of the software are presented.
On the formation of a waterproofing shell around the underground structure lining in watered ground
Authors: Uglyanitsa Andrey
Published: October 2021

To prevent the filtration of groundwater into the used underground structure in operation through its lining, it is proposed to make two waterproofing shells by the underground method around the outer surface of the lining of an underground structure; the upper one is made of the soil mass compacted by cementation with reduced water permeability and the lower one is made of the silicate cement. To make the upper shell, boreholes are drilled from an underground structure through its lining and the cement mortar is alternately injected through them into the watered ground providing its hydraulic fracturing; and to make the lower shell, injection pipes with a diameter of 102-152 mm are installed between the boreholes in the lining flush with its outer surface, the silicate cement mortar is alternately injected into the injection pipes, an incipient crack is created between the outer surface of the lining and the ground under the action of the mortar injection pressure on the ground opposite the injection pipe, an incipient crack is hydraulically extended along the contact of the lining with the ground and filled with the silicate cement mortar until refusal to absorb it. To determine the optimal parameters of the hydraulic separation process, tests were carried out on the laboratory table simulator.
Vermiculture as a biotechnological method of recultivation of disturbed lands in the post-mining system
Authors: Babenko Andrei , Bezrukov Dmitrij , Karimova Saulet , Mametova Akmaral , Zakonnova Ludmila
Published: October 2021

The article shows the prospects of using the technology of vermicomposting for the biological re-cultivation of disturbed mining areas. The valuable properties of vermicompost as a component of soil-substituting mixtures for use in the re-cultivation of disturbed areas are considered. The expediency of using plant waste for the preparation of soil-substituting substrates is shown. The presence of special agrochemical properties of vermicompost obtained during the processing of plant waste (leaf litter) by theEisenia fetida Savignyculture is experimentally established. The pH values and the content of calcium ions in the vermicompost based on poplar leaf litter were significantly higher than in the vermicompost based on horse manure – 7.61 vs. 6.98 and 112.3 vs. 83 mg-eq. / kg, respectively. Germination of wheat seeds on extracts from vermicompost obtained from poplar litter led to a statistically significant increase in the mass of the formed roots compared to seeds germinated on tap water.
Evaluation of heavy-duty vehicles engine life with controlled modification of engine oil
Authors: Shalkov Anton , Kuznetsov Andrey , Kuzin Evgeny
Published: October 2021

The article presents the method of controlled modification of engine oil, as well as the results of operational studies to assess the service life of heavy-duty vehicle engines. The method of controlled modification of engine oil includes a system of five levels of information helping to assess the technical condition of engines of heavy-duty vehicles, including mining dump trucks. The first level of the methodology includes the use of subjective methods for determining the technical condition of engines by its external manifestations. The second level of the methodology includes the use of simple instrumental methods and means of obtaining diagnostic information about the technical condition of the engine and its subsystems. The third level of the technique involves the use of a drip test of engine oil. The fourth level of the methodology includes the chemical analysis of engine oil samples. The fifth level of the technique involves spectral analysis of engine oil to determine the presence of metals.
The economic assessment of heavy dump trucks energy distribution while in operation at Kuzbass open-pit mines
Authors: Kuznetsov Ilya , Panachev Ivan , Shirokolobov Georgiy , Dobrinin Roman
Published: October 2021

The monitoring results of quarry vehicles operation at Kuzbass open-pits are presented in the article. The factors influencing the transpor-tation process energy intensity, as well as the economic efficiency of heavy dump trucks distribution in the conditions of a developed deposit are estab-lished. The dependences of changes in the specific energy consumption of dump trucks of different load capacities on the variation of the longitudinal slopes of the route are determined. The scheme of the energy distribution of the open-pit machines depending on the slope of the technological road on the rise is presented. Formulae for calculating the economic assessment of the operation of open-pit trucks of various load capacities in the condi-tions of an open-pit are given. The dependence of direct losses and down-time of BelAZ-7555, BelAZ-75131 and BelAZ-75306 dump trucks on the change in the longitudinal slope of the highway at the Kuzbass open-pits is established. Graphics of the relationship between direct losses from down-time of open-pit vehicles and the specific energy costs for transporting the blasted rock mass are obtained.
Technocenological approach to development of power generation of industrial regions
Authors: Paskar Ivan , Nepsha Fedor , Lebedev Gennadij
Published: October 2021

The prerequisites for the implementation of distributed generation facilities in the power grid complex of the region are highlighted. A technocenological approach has been chosen for the economically and technically sound implementation of power sources. The procedures for the verification and visualization of the technocenosis were carried out, and the stability of the existing generation system was determined. The analysis of the generating complex with the power units expected to be commissioned has been carried out. It is concluded that it is necessary to install a distributed generation facility of low power to improve energy security.
Study of corrosion characteristics of motor oils used in gas-diesel engines of BelAZ mining dump trucks
Authors: Dubov Georgiy , Bogomolov Alexander , Grigorieva Elena , Strelnikov Pavel , Nokhrin Sergey
Published: October 2021

Comparative studies of the corrosion characteristics of motor oils used in internal combustion engines of BelAZ 75131 mining dump trucks using liquefied natural gas - methane - as a motor fuel are presented. It is noted that an increase in the lead concentration in waste oil of internal combustion engines of mining dump trucks can be influenced by the used motor oil when it is interacting with the crank mechanism bearings liners, which have lead in their composition. The research technique is presented. The data on the pH values of the studied neat motor oils and their oil-in-water emulsions are given. It is noted that the effect of moisture and atmospheric oxygen on various types of motor oils of the same manufacturer's brand affects the formation of either water-soluble organic acids that contribute to the corrosion attack on lead or its alloys, or the formation of water-soluble alkaline organic compounds that have a neutral effect on lead and its alloys. This fact suggests that motor oils used in internal combustion engines of mining dump trucks have various corrosion characteristics that eventually affect the content of harmful impurities in waste oils.
Influence of tire temperature conditions on the capacity of quarry dump trucks operated in JSC "CC Kuzbassrazrezugol"
Authors: Kulpin Alexander , Dadonov Mikhail , Kulpina Evdokia , Borovtsov Valery , Kaisanova Zhanar
Published: October 2021

More than 50-60% of minerals in Russia and the CIS countries are mined in an open-pit or in mining quarry, as it is the most economical and productive. JSC "CC Kuzbassrazrezugol" ranks second in terms of total coal production among the regions of the Russian Federation and first in Kuzbass. Quarry dump trucks are the main mode of technological transport when transporting mined rock. An important task facing road transport is to reduce the cost of transported products. The components of the costs include fuel, tires, maintenance and repair, maintenance of roads and others. It is possible to reduce tires costs by controlling tires life. Most often, thermal damage causes the emergency decommissioning of tires. It is possible to maintain the optimal temperature regime of quarry dump truck tires with the help of operating modes such as load capacity utilization factor and speed, as well as operating conditions such as ambient temperature and longitudinal slope of the road. In turn, the performance of quarry dump trucks directly depends on the operating modes. On the one hand, the growing utilization factor of load capacity and speed increase the productivity of quarry dump trucks, but at the same time this increases the temperature regime and reduces their reliability. This article proposes a methodology for determining the maximum productivity of quarry dump trucks operated in CC Kuzbassrazrezugol taking into account the temperature regime of tires.
Influence of undefined modes of movement on instantaneous redistribution of normal reactions of quarry dump truck tires
Authors: Dadonov Mikhail , Kulpin Alexander , Kulpina Evdokia , Borovtsov Valery , Mukasheva Gulzira
Published: October 2021

Reducing the costs of rock transportation in mining is one of the most important tasks. One of the reserves for solving this issue is a more complete use of the service life of quarry dump trucks tires, since their operation takes place in heavy mining and climatic conditions and this significantly reduces the life of tires. The life of tires depends on many factors: speed of movement, compliance with the recommended air pressure in the tire, ambient air temperature, but the main thing is the change in the normal load on the wheel, which depends on the redistribution of the quarry dump truck weight in case of non-linear movement and on the longitudinal profile of the quarry road. In real conditions, the quarry dump truck moves unevenly due to the complexity of the road - either braking or acceleration occur. This article allows you to evaluate the impact of non-linear modes of quarry dump truck movement on the instant redistribution of normal tire reactions and take into account peak loads on wheels during acceleration and braking in the regular cycle. This will allow you to control the load on the tires directly by cargo amount in the quarry dump truck and thereby increase the life of the tires and their reliability, as well as reduce the cost of transporting the rock mass in real operating conditions.
Study of the control algorithm of the braking system of an autonomous haul truck braking system with the use of imitational models
Authors: Dubinkin Dmitry , Kartashov Alexander , Muraviev Alexander , Buzunov Nikolai , Khlobystov Ilya
Published: October 2021

The paper considers different ways of controlling the braking systems of haul trucks. The general approaches used in the development of control systems for such braking systems are described. Methods of testing and imitational mathematical models, used for the analysis of brake system control systems operation, are presented. The developed control system and the imitational model allow us to analyze the brake system behavior under different operating modes of a haul truck.
On the strategic development of the mining regions of Russia
Authors: Egorova Natalia , Tumin Valery , Kostromin Petr
Published: October 2021

The regions’ development specializing in the minerals extraction has certain features, primarily due to the region's economy mono-dependence on its structure diversifying possibility. In modern conditions, the study of the problem of an innovative approach to the strategic development of mining regions in Russia becomes obvious and logical. The article examines the issues of a conceptually new approach to the elaboration of the strategy for the mining region development as the main prerequisites for increasing its socio-economic condition efficiency. The use of marketing technologies in the region development strategy, as well as clustering based on the territorial production placement forms, taking into account the placement principles, the region subjects integration both inside and outside the national economic network, contributes to accelerating the solution of the tasks faced by all participants in the regional development process. A coal mining region SWOT-analysis was carried out. The main result of the work is the assessment of the synergetic effect value that manifests itself in the provision of resources combining the region’s spheres and industries. The results of the study can be recommended for use in the strategy development for the "monoregions" sustainable development.
Problems and development trends of coal transportation infrastructure in Russia
Authors: Koroleva Tatiana , Tretyakova Inga , Dorozhkina Natalia , Zakamskaya Larisa , Sovenko Irina
Published: October 2021

Analysis of the trends in the coal industry in Russia showed that, despite the stable demand in the global coal market, the growth rate of coal exports is slowing down. The main reason is the shortcomings of the transport and logistics infrastructure for the coal haulage. At the same time, the countries of the Asia-Pacific region are a promising export destination, and it is the Eastern operating domain of the Russian railway network that is most loaded and has insufficient throughput capacity. The study of the elements of the transport and logistics infrastructure revealed key problems, namely the underdevelopment of the railway infrastructure, the inconsistency of development programs for coal mining regions, port facilities and railway infrastructure, and the inconsistency of the operation of ports and the railway. Due to the fact that the development of the railway network in the eastern direction is a long-term project, and the coal haulage values will not be increased in the near future, an assessment is made of the possibility and economic efficiency of reorienting freight traffic in other directions.
Editorial
Authors: Lock Guntram
Published: October 2021

Dear Colleagues,

It is a special pleasure to introduce the first issue of
Ultrasound International Open in a still difficult year – a year, in which many of
us had concerns and clinical tasks reaching far beyond basic or clinical science on
ultrasonography (US). Thus, I am delighted to draw your attention to some
interesting and important new papers teaching us on various aspects of our every
dayʼs US practice.
Evaluation of Diagnostic Accuracy and Radiation Exposure of Dual-Energy Computed Tomography (DECT) in the Course of Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension (CTEPH)
Authors: Schüßler Armin , Richter Manuel , Tello Khodr , Steiner Dagmar , Seeger Werner , Krombach Gabriele Anja , Roller Fritz Christian
Published: October 2021

Purpose The purpose of this study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of computed tomography pulmonary angiogram (CTPA) including dual energy and reconstruction of iodine maps for diagnosing CTEPH. This method for detecting embolisms and perfusion failures was compared with V/Q-SPECT. An additional purpose was to compare the applied radiation dose of both techniques.

Materials and Methods 71 patients (49 women) with suspected CTEPH were included in this prospective study. The patients received a V/Q-SPECT and a dual-energy CTPA. Iodine maps were reconstructed from the data set. CTPA and the iodine maps were read by an experienced radiologist unaware of the clinical information as well as the results of the V/Q-SPECT. Results were compared to the V/Q-SPECT. DLP and the applied amount of radionuclides (MAA, Technegas) were obtained for comparison of radiation dose.

Results For the diagnosis of CTEPH, the sensitivity of DECT was 1.000, specificity 0.966, PPV 0.867 and NPV 1.000, respectively. There was not a considerable difference in the x-ray exposure between the DECT examination and the V/Q-SPECT (1.892 mSv vs. 1.911 mSv; p = 0.6115). Both examination modalities were highly consistent regarding the classification of pathological segments (1177/1278 segments, 92,09 %, κ = 0,5938).

Conclusion This study presents the DECT, in combination with reconstructed iodine maps, as a potential alternative to the current imaging technique of first choice, V/Q-SPECT. For creating future prospective diagnostic algorithms, the implementation of DECT screening with iodine maps should be considered.

Key Points:

Citation Format
Der Weg zur Entdeckung des pulmonalen Gasaustausches
Authors: Koehler Ulrich , Hildebrandt Olaf , Conradt Regina , Koehler Julian , Hildebrandt Wulf
Published: October 2021

Mit der Entdeckung des Sauerstoffs und des pulmonalen Gasaustausches ist ein großer Schritt im Verständnis der Atmung vollzogen worden. Über Jahrhunderte hinweg wurde die Auffassung vertreten, dass die Lunge primär zur Kühlung des Herzens bzw. zur „Vervollkommnung“ des Blutes notwendig sei. Die Beobachtung einer unterschiedlichen Blutfarbe vor und nach Lungenpassage führte Richard Lower (1631–1691) zu der Annahme, dass dem Blut durch die Atmung ein spezieller Stoff zugeführt worden sein müsse. Georg Ernst Stahl (1660–1734) formulierte mit seiner Phlogistontheorie einen Feuerstoff „Phlogiston“ (phlox = Flamme), der in allen brennbaren Stoffen enthalten sei und bei der Verbrennung entweiche. John Mayow (1641–1679) erkannte, dass etwa ein Fünftel des Atemgases bedeutsam für den Atmungsprozess ist, er nannte das Gas „spiritus nitro aerius“. Erstmalig wurde Sauerstoff von dem schwedisch-deutschen Apotheker Carl Wilhelm Scheele (1742–1786) sowie dem englischen Chemiker Joseph Priestley (1733–1804) in den 1770er-Jahren – unabhängig voneinander – hergestellt. Antoine-Laurent Lavoisier (1743–1794) hat den Elementcharakter des Sauerstoffs erkannt und den Oxidationsvorgang erstmals exakt beschrieben.
Progress and future of computers that mimic the brain.
Authors: Cockshott Anne
Published: October 2021

Improvements in neuromorphic computers facilitated by 2D materials could contribute to further developments in artificial intelligence.
Comparative study of the damping performance of concentrated masses and particle dampers based on cantilever beams
Authors: Zhang Yingjie , Xu Wei , Zhang Yuanchao , Qian Feng
Published: October 2021

This paper investigates the damping performance of the main structure with a concentrated mass and particle dampers at different particle filling rates and sinusoidal sweep amplitudes under the same mass ratio by means of a controlled experiment, with the concentrated mass and particle dampers attached to the free end of the cantilever beam. As the order increases, the effect becomes progressively weaker. For cantilevered beam structures, a reasonable design with only a small mass ratio of particle dampers can effectively suppress the vibration of the first order. For the second- and third-order bending vibration, particle dampers with high mass ratios show a better damping effect, and when the strength of the excitation reaches a certain value, the damping performance of the particle dampers is basically better than that of the concentrated mass under the same conditions. The reason for this is that particle damping not only dampens the vibration by tuning the mass but also dissipates the energy of the main structure by means of collisions, impacts, and friction between the particles or between the particles and the damper cavity.
Nutritional traits of riverine eucalypts across lowland catchments in southeastern Australia
Authors: Fernando Denise R. , Dyer Fiona , Gehrig Susan , Capon Sam , Fernando Anthony E. , George Amy , Campbell Cherie , Tschierschke Alica , Palmer Gary , Davies Micah , Kinsela Andrew S. , Collins Richard N. , Nolan Martin , Doody Tanya
Published: October 2021

Eucalyptus (Myrtaceae) trees are ubiquitous in riparian–floodplain zones of Australia’s south-eastern river catchments, where natural ecosystems continue to be affected. In the Murray–Darling Basin (MDB), provision of environmental flows to mitigate tree decline is informed by past field studies. However, broadscale empirical field data on tree nutrition and response to external changes remain scarce. This is the first study to gather soil and plant data across a large area of catchment lowlands to generate a low-resolution regional snapshot of tree nutrition and soil chemistry. Leaves and soils were sampled across and adjacent to the MDB; from and beneath mature trees of three key riverine eucalypts, Eucalyptus largiflorens, E. camaldulensis, and E. coolabah. Foliar sodium concentrations ranged from ∼500 mg kg−1 for E. coolabah up to ∼4500 mg kg−1 for E. largiflorens, with highest values at the River Murray sites. The results suggest E. largiflorens is highly salt tolerant by foliage accumulation given all trees sampled were in good condition. Further research into these species is needed to determine toxicity thresholds for elements such as sodium to aid early diagnosis of potential tree stress, which could provide an additional line of evidence for when environmental water is required to mitigate decline.
An approach to integrated data management for three-dimensional, time-dependent fire behaviour model evaluation
Authors: McNamara Derek , Mell William
Published: October 2021

The advancement of three-dimensional, time-dependent fire behaviour models is best supported by publicly available, co-located, synchronised, quality-assured measures of pre-fire, active fire and post-fire conditions (i.e. integrated datasets). Currently, there is a lack of such datasets. Consequently, we discuss essential components to produce integrated datasets: metadata, implementation of geospatial and temporal standards, data management plans, quality assurance project plans and data quality objectives. We present example data quality objectives and a data model for grassland experiments developed based on our experience integrating data from the 2014 Camp Swift Fire and the 2012 Prescribed Fire Combustion and Atmospheric Dynamics Research experiments.
Ideologies of Labor and the Consequences of Toil in India’s Construction Industry
Authors: Sargent Adam
Published: October 2021

This article examines the semiotics of labor through an analysis of a construction skill training program in Delhi. It focuses on recurring struggles between students and administrators over the nature and consequences of the activities they engaged in at the training center. Drawing on the notion of language ideology, it argues that students and administrators invoked different ideologies of labor in framing the value and meaning of productive activities. Under different ideological framings, productive action had the potential to transform the subject in radically different but equally unstable ways. While students worried that engaging in “labor work” could transform them into abject laborers, administrators tried to shore up the notion that “practical” would make students into successful workers. More generally, the paper suggests that attending to ideologies of labor can nuance accounts of how labor transforms subjects and social worlds.
The Sand Creek Massacre
Authors: West Elliott
Published: October 2021

At dawn on November 29, 1864, a combined force of volunteer cavalry and regular army troops attacked a village of Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho peoples on Sand Creek, or Big Sandy, a tributary of the Arkansas River in southeastern Colorado. Those in the village had surrendered at nearby Fort Lyon weeks earlier and were waiting for instructions about future negotiations with the federal government. In the eight-hour massacre that followed at least one hundred fifty Indians were killed, the great majority of them women and children. Although the massacre occurred through the failures of Colorado’s territorial governor, John Evans, and the ambitions of its military commander, Colonel John Chivington, it reflected more broadly the stresses generated by the discovery of gold in Colorado in 1858, the declining position of plains Indian peoples, and the disruptions of the Civil War. Those stresses had led to raiding by elements among the Indians most resistant to intrusions by White newcomers and to assaults by military, including ones against Native leaders seeking peaceful accommodation. The massacre was followed by extensive reprisals by Southern Cheyennes and allies among the western Sioux (Lakotas). Subsequent investigations by both the military and Congress documented the atrocities committed there, and one recommended prosecution of some of its principals. No legal action was taken, and within a few years Cheyennes and Arapahoes had been removed from Colorado.
Violence and Sex in the Work of Armando Bó and Isabel Sarli
Authors: Ruétalo Victoria
Published: October 2021

Director-producer-actor Armando Bó made films featuring nude appearances by the voluptuous star Isabel “Coca” Sarli that challenged the social constraints that were taking hold in a more restrictive and violent Argentina. The period from the fall of Juan Domingo Perón in 1955 until the end of the “Guerra Sucia” or Dirty War in 1983 marked a volatile time in the history of Argentina, with ever-increasing acts of state violence. It coincided with a parallel in the film industry: the state began to intervene in production and exhibition practices through laws that limited what was seen on the screen, until censorship was formally legalized. The work of Bó and Sarli falls perfectly within the historical period of onscreen and offscreen violence. The enterprise began in 1956, and their final film was released in 1984 (after the end of the dictatorship and the death of the director). The couple produced films that suffered from the aggressive effects of censorship—through the cutting of specific scenes that displayed the female body—and reflected the growing violence in everyday life. Films like Carne (Flesh, 1968) and Furia infernal (Ardent summer, 1973) tell simple stories of seemingly weak females and aggressive macho males. A closer look at their narratives, however, reveals a more complex femininity and masculinity, one where violence begets violence. Throughout the twenty-seven films they made together, Bó and Sarli consistently revealed sexuality and gender issues at a time when these were invisible in Latin America.
Application of Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Macular Analysis for Systemic Hypertension. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Anjos Rita , Ferreira André , Barkoudah Ebrahim , Claggett Brian , Abegão Pinto Luis , Miguel Ana
Published: October 2021

Background

Microvascular rarefaction due to hypertension has been linked to disease severity and end-organ complications. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) has been explored as a potential tool to evaluate the retinal microvascular network in hypertensive patients.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane were systematically searched to 10th of September of 2021, along with a manual search. Studies that used OCTA as a primary diagnostic method to evaluate the macular microvasculature of hypertensive patients were included. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model. Primary outcomes were macular vessel density (VD) and foveal avascular zone (FAZ) at the superficial and deep capillary plexus.

Results

Of 947 screened articles, 9 were found eligible for qualitative and quantitative analysis. VD in hypertensive patients was reduced when compared with controls in the fovea (0.93, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.87–0.99, P = 0.023) and the parafovea (0.95, 95% CI 0.93–0.97, P < 0.001) of the superficial capillary plexus. FAZ was larger in the deep plexus of hypertensive patients (1.10, 95% CI 1.03–1.18, P = 0.003). VD reduction was found in patients with worsening blood pressure control in 3 studies and prolonged disease in 2 studies.

Conclusions

Microvascular rarefaction of the macula is found in hypertensive patients with a reduction of foveal and parafoveal VD and an increase of FAZ area. Disease duration and severity might be related to a microvascular rarefaction. OCTA could offer a novel tool for the assessment and follow-up of hypertensive patients.
Identifying risk factors for early neurological outcomes following thoracic endovascular aortic repair using the SUMMIT database
Authors: Tsilimparis Nikolaos , Stana Jan , Konstantinou Nikolaos , Chen Min , Zhou Qing , Kölbel Tilo
Published: October 2021

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess risk factors for early neurological complications following thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for multiple thoracic aortic diseases using an aggregated dataset.

METHODS

The Study to Assess Outcomes After Endovascular Repair for Multiple Throacic Aortic Disease dataset included data from 6 studies evaluating Zenith thoracic endografts. Post hoc analysis identified early (30-day) neurological complications by TEVAR indication and corresponding risk factors.

RESULTS

The study included 594 TEVAR patients (67% male; mean age 66 ± 15 years) with thoracic aortic aneurysm (n = 329), ulcer (n = 56), acute (n = 126) or non-acute (n = 33) type B aortic dissection (TBAD) or blunt injury (n = 50). Overall early stroke rate was 3.5% (n = 21). Overall early paraplegia and paraparesis rates were 1.3% (n = 8) and 2.5% (n = 15), respectively. Multivariable analysis identified acute TBAD [versus others, odds ratio (OR) = 3.47, 95% confidence internal (CI): 1.41–8.52) and longer procedural time (OR = 1.33, CI: 1.02–1.73) as early stroke risk factors. Risk factors for paraplegia or paraparesis included more endografts deployed (OR = 2.43, CI: 1.30–4.55), older age (OR = 1.05, CI: 1.01–1.10) and higher preoperative serum creatinine (OR = 1.31, CI: 1.05–1.64). Endografts landing proximal to the left subclavian artery (LSA) increased stroke rate (versus distal to the LSA; 6.8% vs 2.3%, P = 0.014). Intraoperative LSA revascularization was performed in 20.9% of patients with endografts proximal to the LSA; revascularization did not significantly alter stroke rate (8.1% with revascularization vs 6.4% without, P = 0.72).

CONCLUSIONS

Acute TBAD and prolonged procedure time increased early stroke risk, while more endografts placed, age and preoperative renal impairment increased early paraplegia or paraparesis risk. For acute TBAD, endograft placement proximal to the LSA, but not LSA patency, increased stroke risk.
The longitudinal impact of division-wide implementation of an enhanced recovery after thoracic surgery programme
Authors: Thompson Calvin , Mattice Amanda M S , Al Lawati Yaseen , Seyednejad Nazgol , Lee Alex , Maziak Donna E , Gilbert Sebastian , Sundaresan Sudhir , Villeneuve James , Shamji Farid , Brehaut Jamie , Ramsay Tim , Seely Andrew J E
Published: October 2021

OBJECTIVES

Data regarding enhanced recovery after thoracic surgery (ERATS) are sparse and inconsistent. This study aims to evaluate the effects of implementing an enhanced ERATS programme on postoperative outcomes, patient experience and quality of life (QOL).

METHODS

We conducted a prospective, longitudinal study evaluating 9 months before (pre-ERATS) and 9 months after (post-ERATS) a 3-month implementation of an ERATS programme in a single academic tertiary care centre. All patients undergoing major thoracic surgeries were included. The primary outcomes included length of stay (LOS), adverse events (AEs), 6-min walk test scores at 4 weeks, 30-day emergency room visits (without admission) and 30-day readmissions. The process-of-care outcomes included time to ‘out-of-bed’, independent ambulation, successful fluid intake, last chest tube removal and removal of urinary catheter. Perioperative anaesthesia-related outcomes were examined as well as patient experience and QOL scores.

RESULTS

The pre-ERATS group (n = 352 patients) and post-ERATS group (n = 352) demonstrated no differences in demographics. Post-ERATS patients had improved LOS (4.7 vs 6.2 days, P < 0.02), 6-min walk test scores (402 vs 371 m, P < 0.05) and 30-day emergency room visits (13.7% vs 21.6%, P = 0.03) with no differences in AEs and 30-day readmissions. Patients experienced shorter mean time to ‘out-of-bed’, independent ambulation, successful fluid intake, last chest tube removal and urinary catheter removal. There were no differences in postoperative analgesia administration, patient satisfaction and QOL scores.

CONCLUSIONS

ERATS implementation was associated with improved LOS, expedited feeding, ambulation and chest tube removal, without increasing AEs or readmissions, while maintaining a high level of patient satisfaction and QOL.
Adjuvant chemotherapy for visceral pleural invasion in 3–4-cm non-small-cell lung cancer improves survival
Authors: Wightman Sean C , Lee James Y , Ding Li , Atay Scott M , Shemanski Kimberly A , McFadden P Michael , David Elizabeth A , Kim Anthony W
Published: October 2021

OBJECTIVES

Visceral pleural invasion (VPI) guidelines, for tumours ≤4 cm are ambiguous. Non-small-cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) 3 to ≤4 cm are assigned the T2a designation. Similarly, any tumours with VPI, smaller than 3 cm, are upstaged and also assigned the same T2a designation. We hypothesized that adjuvant chemotherapy would significantly improve 5-year survival for NSCLC ≤4 cm with VPI.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database was queried from 2010 to 2016 for cases of NSCLC with clinical stage I disease, ≤4 cm, who subsequently underwent surgical resection. These stage I NSCLCs were stratified according to clinical tumour sizes (0 to ≤1, 1 to ≤2, 2 to ≤3 and 3 to ≤4 cm). This cohort was then divided into groups with and without VPI and further split based on the administration of adjuvant chemotherapy. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to calculate 5-year overall survival (OS) for patients categorized by tumour size, VPI status, and receipt of adjuvant chemotherapy. Multivariable Cox regression adjusting for tumour size and VPI status was used to determine associations between use of adjuvant chemotherapy and OS.

RESULTS

A total of 61 454 patients with NSCLC and clinical tumour sizes <4 cm were identified and grouped based on size along with VPI and adjuvant chemotherapy. The 5-year OS for combined tumour sizes without VPI was higher than for patients with VPI (66.2% vs 59.5%, P < 0.001). The OS for tumour size (0 to ≤1, 1 to ≤2, 2 to ≤3 and 3 to ≤4 cm) was lower for patients with VPI regardless of size (all P ≤ 0.010). When all tumour sizes were combined, patients with VPI who received adjuvant chemotherapy had an improved 5-year OS compared to patients without adjuvant chemotherapy (65.5% vs 58.8%, P < 0.001). When cohorts were created by tumour size, only VPI tumours 3 to ≤4 cm had a statistically significant increase in 5-year OS for patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy (68.8% vs 49.9%, P < 0.001). On multivariable Cox regression for OS, adjuvant chemotherapy was associated with significantly longer 5-year OS in tumour size 3 to ≤4 (hazard ratio = 0.62, 95% confidence interval 0.46–0.83, P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

VPI remains a poor prognostic factor in clinically node-negative, T2a or less, NSCLC patients. Guidelines recommend considering chemotherapy for high-risk T2aN0, margin-negative patients—including those patients with VPI. Based on the analysis, adjuvant chemotherapy should be considered specifically for 3 to ≤4 cm with VPI due to an observed 5-year OS advantage.
Assessment of community pharmacists’ engagement in pharmacy-delivered influenza vaccination: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Chadi Alexandre , Gabet Morgane , Robitaille Andréanne , David Pierre-Marie
Published: October 2021

Objectives

This study aimed to identify factors contributing to pharmacists’ engagement in vaccination services during the first influenza vaccination campaign in 2019–2020 for the Canadian province of Quebec, led by community pharmacists.

Methods

A mixed-methods study was conducted using a sequential exploratory design. Semi-structured interviews were administered to pharmacists and key informants (n = 23) and data were analysed according to the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research in community pharmacy. The findings were then used to construct a survey of community pharmacists’ engagement in vaccination, which was tested in a Quebec urban community. The study participation rate was 34.6% (n = 29).

Key findings

Pharmacists expressed positive attitudes towards the implementation of vaccination services, following legislative reform. Factors such as previous involvement in vaccination campaigns and the number of pharmacists on duty were positively associated with engagement in influenza vaccination, whereas staff shortages and logistical problems were a barrier to engagement. Qualitative findings provided in-depth understanding of the value of interprofessional collaboration between pharmacists and nurses.

Conclusions

Vaccination in pharmacies is currently more reflective of individual choice than an indication of collective change in the profession. Logistical factors are key to enhancing the uptake of vaccination in community pharmacies throughout Quebec. External support from professional associations and interprofessional collaboration should be enhanced to promote the implementation of vaccination services in pharmacies.
A proximal bundle algorithm for nonsmooth optimization on Riemannian manifolds
Authors: Hoseini Monjezi Najmeh , Nobakhtian Soghra , Pouryayevali Mohamad Reza
Published: October 2021

Proximal bundle methods are among the most successful approaches for convex and nonconvex optimization problems in linear spaces and it is natural to extend these methods to the manifold setting. In this paper we propose a proximal bundle method for solving nonsmooth, nonconvex optimization problems on Riemannian manifolds. At every iteration, by using the proximal bundle method a candidate descent direction is computed and by employing a restricted-step procedure and a retraction the next iterate is built. The global convergence, starting from any point, is proved in the sense that if the number of serious iterates is finite then the last serious iterate is stationary and otherwise every accumulation point of the serious iterate sequence is stationary. At the end, some numerical experiments are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method and clarify the theoretical results.
Epidemiological clues to influenza in a headstone inscription from Iran from 1918
Authors: Aslanabadi Saeid , Zare Zakieh , Aslanabadi Sina , Rezaee Mohsen , Aslanabadi Arash
Published: October 2021

Headstones are usually considered to be a symbol that provides information about the deceased. This information might include the birth and death date, short literary piece or a poem. A unique headstone in Iran contains basic epidemiological facts about a deadly disease that had spread almost 100 years ago.
Arnobius’ Scythians and the Dating of Adversus Nationes
Authors: Gassman Mattias
Published: October 2021

Jerome’s De uiris illustribus and Chronicon supply conflicting dates for Arnobius: the reign of Diocletian and the year 327. Mark Edwards has recently defended the latter date for the writing, final redaction, or publication of Aduersus nationes. References to the contemporary social and political situation point, however, to writing under the Tetrarchy; the few chronological references are vague, but do not conflict with an early date. A new datum advanced by Edwards clinches the case, but against the late dating. At 1.16, Arnobius reproaches pagans for blaming the defeat of the Alamanni, Scythians (likely the Goths), and Persians on the Christians among them. An echo of Tertullian, the passage shows that Arnobius must have been writing before Constantine’s open declarations of support for Christianity, after which it would have been impossible, without signalling the irony, to put such words in a pagan mouth.
Law Making Activities during Lame Duck Sessions in Indonesia (1997–2020)
Authors: Arsil Fitra , Mauleny Ariesy Tri , Wasti Ryan Muthiara
Published: October 2021

This study described that phenomenon in the law-making process in Indonesia by displaying the data on the behaviours or issuance of laws during lame duck sessions from 1997 to 2020. Compared with that of regular sessions, laws issued during the lame duck sessions significantly looked more productive but they did not comply with the mandate of laws desiring that each bill was supposed to be discussed in three sessions at the longest. In terms of the materials regulated in Laws, many lawmakers took advantage of a lame duck session to pass any laws in favour of the state officials that often generated public rejection and had shifted its participatory role through a judicial review at the Constitutional Court. Empirical tests of the law’s response to economic growth using econometrics analysis also indicate that current laws have a negative impact on the economy. House of the Representatives (DPR) and the President had actually understood the logic that a lame duck session was not such a right time to make a law; however, making a law during a lame duck session was not prohibited and there were no such clear rulings restricting the making of a law during this session.
Towards a reporting guideline for developmental and reproductive toxicology testing in C. elegans and other nematodes
Authors: van der Voet Monique , Teunis Marc , Louter-van de Haar Johanna , Stigter Nienke , Bhalla Diksha , Rooseboom Martijn , Wever Kimberley E , Krul Cyrille , Pieters Raymond , Wildwater Marjolein , van Noort Vera
Published: October 2021

Implementation of reliable methodologies allowing Reduction, Refinement, and Replacement (3Rs) of animal testing is a process that takes several decades and is still not complete. Reliable methods are essential for regulatory hazard assessment of chemicals where differences in test protocol can influence the test outcomes and thus affect the confidence in the predictive value of the organisms used as an alternative for mammals. Although test guidelines are common for mammalian studies, they are scarce for non-vertebrate organisms that would allow for the 3Rs of animal testing.

Here, we present a set of 30 reporting criteria as the basis for such a guideline for Developmental and Reproductive Toxicology (DART) testing in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Small organisms like C. elegans are upcoming in new approach methodologies for hazard assessment; thus, reliable and robust test protocols are urgently needed. A literature assessment of the fulfilment of the reporting criteria demonstrates that although studies describe methodological details, essential information such as compound purity and lot/batch number or type of container is often not reported. The formulated set of reporting criteria for C. elegans testing can be used by (i) researchers to describe essential experimental details (ii) data scientists that aggregate information to assess data quality and include data in aggregated databases (iii) regulators to assess study data for inclusion in regulatory hazard assessment of chemicals.