Ideal Amount Research Articles

Factors associated with marital readiness among Turkish young adults

AbstractObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to determine common themes for marital readiness, to evaluate the generalization to broader samples consisting of single individuals, and to examine the factors associated with marital readiness.BackgroundReadiness for marriage is essential to the formation of a healthy marital union. Therefore, it is important to conceptualize marital readiness.MethodThis study was designed using the exploratory sequential design, a mixed‐methods research approach. This research was carried out with a total of 1523 (865 female, 658 male) unmarried Turkish young adults in three study groups. In the data analysis, thematic analysis, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, and regression analysis were used.ResultsSix themes were determined as the factors to which single young adults attach importance for marital readiness. These themes were financial readiness, emotional readiness, interpersonal relationship readiness, family life and family role readiness, sexual readiness, and social responsibility readiness.ConclusionThe Marital Readiness Scale is a valid and reliable measurement tool. The variables of age, ideal marital age, and the ideal amount of time needed to get to know a partner before marriage were revealed to be related to marital readiness.ImplicationsMental health professionals can benefit from the results of this research when designing marriage preparation programs.

GGBS: Fly-Ash evaluation and mechanical properties within high strength concrete

The behavior of concrete in the form of an adhesive made with activated silicon and aluminium in a highly alkaline solution is investigated in this study. Research on concrete based on low calcium fly ash is widely used. The fly ash with high calcium content can also be suitable as a base material for producing geopolymers. In this investigation, the exact ideal substitution amount of GGBS: Fly Ash for PPC concrete mix was determined to be 60:40. For different sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate chemical ratios in the concrete mix, different results were produced. This research adds to our understanding of the performance of various strength concretes and GGBS as partial cement substitutes. Mechanical strength and durability properties and acid attack were discovered in the GGBS and Fly Ash concrete mix. Sodium Silicate and sodium hydroxide have been discovered to affect various combinations as well as strength and durability.

Feasibility Study on Application of Natural Coagulants

Creating nations are confronting consumable water gracefully issues because of lacking money-related assets. The expense of water treatment is expanding, and the nature of waterway water isn’t steady because of a suspended and colloidal molecule load brought about via land advancement and high tempest overflow during the stormy season. Because of numerous issues made by utilizing engineered coagulants a popularity to locate an elective characteristic coagulant emerges. In this exertion, an endeavor is made to examine the likelihood of normal coagulants like Cassia Alata, Calotropis Procera, Hyacinth bean, Banana leaves, Carcia Papaya, Acacia Mearnsii, Jatropha Curcas, Cactus, and Tamarind seeds on the reduction of turbidity of water. The clump coagulation test was done to decide the ideal coagulant amount required for the evacuation of turbidity of 100 NTU and to recognize the successful coagulant out of the nine chose normal coagulants. From this study, it may be accomplished that banana leaf can be used as an effectual coagulant for low and medium turbid water, whereas for high turbid water cactus can be used as an effective coagulant. Further examinations were completed utilizing the recognized coagulant to streamline the parameters like coagulant measurements, pH, introductory turbid focus, blending time, blending rate, and settling time. The higher percentage removal of turbidity was observed when pH was maintained at 6.5, initial turbid concentration was 500NTU, rapid mixing time given was 1 minute, slow mixing time with 25 minutes, and settling time of 25 minutes.

Improving Household Agriculture with Roof-Harvested Rainwater: A Case Study in Sydney and Nairobi

The production and distribution of a sufficient quantity of food and water of satisfactory quality is at the heart of sustainable development. At the small domestic scale, roof-harvested rainwater can make a significant contribution to food supply and distribution systems (production, handling, storage, and transportation). In this paper, we compare the potential crop production of a small garden plot using three methods of watering: (1) rainfed only with no irrigation; (2) irrigated with the ideal amount of water; and (3) rainwater tanks of various sizes installed and used to irrigate the plot. Yield was determined on the basis of the yield calculation method presented in FAO 33. It was found that yields can be increased considerably by installing a correctly managed rainwater storage system (RSS). A 3 kL RSS connected to a 120 m2 roof can increase yields in Nairobi from 40 kg to 96 kg. In Sydney, a larger roof of 200 m2 can increase yields from 66 kg to 143 kg. This study makes an important contribution to water and food security-related sustainable development goals.

Analysis And Evaluation Of Pharmacist Power Needs With The WISN Method In The Pharmaceutical Installation Of Haji Hospital Surabaya

The success of the hospital in carrying out its functions is influenced by several factors, among which the most dominant is human resources. Human resources are one of the important factors to be able to provide quality and comprehensive services in health services and are the key determinants of the rate and quality of services. The method of calculating needs based on workload (WISN) is an indicator that shows the amount of workforce required for health facilities based on workload, so that the allocation / relocation of labor will be easier and more rational. This research is a descriptive observational research with qualitative data analysis with purposive sampling method, namely the sampling technique by determining certain criteria. The HR category that will be calculated is the pharmacist in the Pharmacy Installation of the Surabaya Haji Hospital and results in a calculation of the total need for pharmacists of 24 people, compared to the current number of pharmacists of 20 pharmacists, the addition of pharmacists is 4 people in the Home Pharmacy Installation Haji Hospital Surabaya. The current number of fulfilled personnel from the calculation results only fulfills 83% of the ideal amount generated by the WISN method. With the obstacles faced such as the large workload of clinical pharmacy services that are carried out every day. To anticipate this, it is necessary to fulfill the need for pharmacists.

Evaluating the treatment of heavy metals in acidic wastewater by activated carbon

The study investigated the use of activated carbon (AC), produced from pinewood, to remove copper, zinc and iron from modified landfill leachates. South Africa faces an imminent water crisis, hence the need to see wastewater as an important source that must be treated and reused to combat water deficits in future. The use of AC as a soil amendment for the removal of heavy metals (HM) is not well researched. This study aimed to determine the ideal amount of AC (5%, 10%, 15% and 20% [w/w]) to add to soil using leaching columns for optimum HM adsorption. Modified acidic wastewater (pH > 2) was leached through soil columns packed with sandy loam soil and different amounts of AC (5%, 10%, 15% and 20% [w/w]). The results indicated that all the columns efficiently removed 94% copper, 80% zinc and 99% iron. Even a small amount (5% w/w) of AC was effective in removing HMs and can thus be considered as a possible cost-effective treatment option for acidic wastewater.

Eating Perception, Nutrition Knowledge and Body Image among Para-Athletes: Practical Challenges in Nutritional Support.

Limited information exists on dietary practices in para-athletes. The aim of this study was to clarify the actual situation of para-athletes’ dietary practice and to sort out the factors (i.e., eating perception, nutrition knowledge, and body image), that may hinder their dietary practices, and explored the practical challenges in nutritional support and improving nutrition knowledge for para-athletes. Thirty-two Japanese para-athletes (22 men) and 45 collegiate student athletes without disabilities (27 men) participated in the online survey. The questionnaire included demographic characteristics, eating perception, dietary practices, and nutrition knowledge. The Japanese version of the body appreciation scale was used to determine their body image. Para-athletes who answered that they knew their ideal amount and way of eating showed significantly higher body image scores (r = 0.604, p < 0.001). However, mean score for nutrition knowledge of para-athletes were significantly lower than collegiate student athletes (19.4 ± 6.8 vs. 24.2 ± 6.1 points, p = 0.001). Both groups did not identify a dietitian as the source of nutrition information or receiving their nutrition advice. The results indicate para-athletes have unique eating perceptions and inadequate nutrition knowledge. Future interventions are needed to examine nutritional supports and education in relation to the role of dietitians.

Green wall design to mitigate highway pollution

Recent studies showed that Baghdad city suffers from highly polluted environment. The enormous traffic congestion and highly number of vehicles, especially during peak hours, is the main source of this pollution. This study is focused on stopping this deterioration by suggesting a green infrastructure to the one of main arterial road of the city (Mohammed Al-Qassim Expressway). The amount of pollutants resulted from traffic fleet have been estimated. It was found that the level of pollution is exceeded the acceptable levels. A combination of vegetation (trees) and green wall (shrubs) has been proposed for designing the green infrastructure for a selected section. Three types of trees namely: Neem tree, Ficus benjamina and Conocarpus have been selected after review many types that can be used for this purpose and resist the extreme hot weather. Two types of shrubs: Myrtus communis and Dodonaea viscosa were proposed due to their suitability for this function of filtering the particulate matters. The maximum ideal annual amount of CO2 sequestration for 1km of trees planted on road sides and median was about 43.2, 10.5, and 9.25 Tonne for the Neem tree, Ficus benjamina, and Conocarpus, respectively.

Green wall design to mitigate highway pollution

Recent studies showed that Baghdad city suffers from highly polluted environment. The enormous traffic congestion and highly number of vehicles, especially during peak hours, is the main source of this pollution. This study is focused on stopping this deterioration by suggesting a green infrastructure to the one of main arterial road of the city (Mohammed Al-Qassim Expressway). The amount of pollutants resulted from traffic fleet have been estimated. It was found that the level of pollution is exceeded the acceptable levels. A combination of vegetation (trees) and green wall (shrubs) has been proposed for designing the green infrastructure for a selected section. Three types of trees namely: Neem tree, Ficus benjamina and Conocarpus have been selected after review many types that can be used for this purpose and resist the extreme hot weather. Two types of shrubs: Myrtus communis and Dodonaea viscosa were proposed due to their suitability for this function of filtering the particulate matters. The maximum ideal annual amount of CO2 sequestration for 1km of trees planted on road sides and median was about 43.2, 10.5, and 9.25 Tonne for the Neem tree, Ficus benjamina, and Conocarpus, respectively.

Imaging and Identifying BSA Biofouling through the Combination of Fluorescence Microscopy and Flux Experiments

AbstractBiofouling decreases efficiency of membrane‐based water filtration, like desalination, because fouling decreases flow rates. Understanding biofouling mechanism is crucial for increased implementation of desalination though few techniques for studying this exist. Flux experiments are combined with fluorescent membrane images to determine the biofouling mechanism of bovine serum albumin (BSA), a common model protein, with two mixed cellulose ester membranes. Samples containing 1% to 12% fluorescently tagged BSA (remaining protein unlabeled) are tested to determine the ideal amount of labeled protein. Due to large standard deviation in the fouling decays, the relative flux decays are fit for statistical analysis. No correlation between the decay and amount of labeled protein is found, suggesting the dye has little impact on the fouling. A 2.5% or 5% labeled protein sample is optimal to generate images and visualize the beginning of cake formation (blockage of membrane pores). By fitting the flux data to biofouling mechanism equations, it is concluded BSA deposits in the membrane pores eventually leading to cake formation. These results are corroborated using scanning electron microscopy images. Combining flux and fluorescence microscopy allows for further insight into biofouling mechanism and can be applied to other biological molecules to improve filtration techniques.

How is Clinical Trial Reimbursement Money Spent? South African Trial Participants\u2019 Reported Reimbursement Spending Patterns and Perceptions of Appropriate Reimbursement Amounts

Reimbursement of participants in clinical trials is extensively debated. Guidance recommends that compensation should reflect time, inconvenience and reimbursement of expenses. This study describes how participants spend their reimbursement and perceptions of appropriate reimbursement amounts. This was a sub-study of the evidence for contraceptive options and HIV outcomes (ECHO) trial. Participants were from two sites in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. A mixed methods approach was used. 500 participants completed a questionnaire, and 32 participated in one of four focus group discussions (FGD). The majority (81%) used reimbursement for transport to the research site, followed by toiletry purchases (64%). Many described how reimbursement supplemented income, used to cover basic living costs. Some used money to buy luxury items and takeaway foods. The ideal reimbursement amount per visit ranged: ZAR150-ZAR340 (US$10–24). Reimbursement spending and perceptions are in line with local guidance. Reimbursement should consider risk minimization together with ensuring informed, voluntary decision making.

High-Performance All-Bio-Based Laminates Derived from Delignified Wood

The need for renewable bio-based materials that could replace well-established synthetic composite materials is rapidly growing. For example, bio-based materials are increasingly used in applications where a lightweight design should be combined with sustainability and recyclability. However, it is often very challenging to directly transfer the excellent properties of biological materials to a product in a scalable and cost-efficient manner. In this study, we combined delignified wood layers (veneers) and a starch-based glue into bio-based high-performance composites. First, we investigated the ideal amount of starch-based glue between the layers to prevent delamination in the final composite. Then, we produced laminates in unidirectional, cross-ply, and quasi-isotropic configurations using wet processing. Laminates with tensile properties up to 40 GPa and 200 MPa in tensile stiffness and strength, respectively, were fabricated with a very high fiber volume content of up to 80%. The high fiber volume contents led to mechanical interlocks between neighboring fibers and made the need for an additional matrix unnecessary. The water-based laminate process is cost-efficient and scalable and additionally allows one to make full use of delignified wood’s formability by producing shaped parts for various applications.

A proposed model for a comprehensive virtual subinternship in vascular surgery

ObjectiveIn the present study, we sought to understand the challenges, advantages, and applications of a vascular surgery virtual subinternship (VSI) curriculum. MethodsOur institution hosted 25 students for two 4-week VSI rotations, one in July 2020 and one in August 2020. The students participated in a curriculum centered around the use of Zoom and telephone interactions with residents and faculty. The curriculum included selected readings, surgical videos, group didactics, and one-on-one mentorship. Anonymous pre- and postrotation self-assessments were used to ascertain the students' achievement of the learning objectives and the utility of the educational tools implemented during the rotation. The faculty and resident mentors were also surveyed to assess their experience. ResultsWith the exception of knot-tying techniques (P = .67), the students reported significant improvement in their understanding of vascular surgery concepts after the virtual elective (P < .05). The highest ranked components of the course were interpersonal, including interaction with faculty, mentorship, and learning the program culture. The lowest ranked components of the course were simulation training and research opportunities. The rating of the utility of aspects of the course were consistent with the ranking of the components, with faculty interaction receiving the highest average rating. The ideal amount of time for daily virtual interaction reported by the students ranged from 3 to 6 hours (median, 4 hours). Overall, most of the mentors were satisfied with the virtual course. However, they reported limited ability to assess the students' personality and fit for the program. The time spent per week by the mentors on the virtual vascular surgery rotation ranged from 2 to 7 hours (median, 4 hours). Of the 17 mentors completing the surveys, 14 reported that having a virtual student was a significant addition to their existing workload. ConclusionsOverall, our student and mentor feedback was positive. Several challenges inherent to the virtual environment still require refinement. However, the goals of a VSI are distinct and should be explored by training programs. With changes to healthcare in the United States on the horizon and the constraints resulting from the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic, implementing a virtual away rotation could be an acceptable platform in our adaptations of our recruitment strategies.

Household and Population-Level Behavioural Changes Due to COVID-19 Pandemic: A Smart Thermostat Based Comparative Data Analysis

The World Health Organization declared the coronavirus outbreak as a pandemic on March 11, 2020. To inhibit the spread of COVID-19, governments around the globe, including Canada, have implemented physical distancing and lockdown measures, including a work-from-home policy. Canada in 2020 has developed a 24-Hour Movement Guideline for all ages laying guidance on the ideal amount of physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep (PASS) for an individual in a day. The purpose of this study was to investigate changes on the household and population-level in lifestyle behaviours (PASS) and time spent indoors at the household level, following the implementation of physical distancing protocols and stay-at-home guidelines. For this study, we used 2019 and 2020 data from ecobee, a Canadian smart Wi-Fi thermostat company, through the Donate Your Data (DYD) program. Using motion sensors data, we quantified the amount of sleep by using the absence of movement, and similarly, increased sensor activation to show a longer duration of household occupancy. The key findings of this study were; during the COVID-19 pandemic, overall household-level activity increased significantly compared to pre-pandemic times, there was no significant difference between household-level behaviours between weekdays and weekends during the pandemic, average sleep duration has not changed, but the pattern of sleep behaviour significantly changed, specifically, bedtime and wake up time delayed, indoor time spent has been increased and outdoor time significantly reduced. Our data analysis shows the feasibility of using big data to monitor the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the household and population-level behaviours and patterns of change.

Use of virgin/recycled polyethylene blends in rotational moulding

Abstract Aiming to further plastics recycling via rotational moulding plastics processing, blends of virgin and recycled polyethylene sourced from post-consumer plastics were developed. Three different kinds of recycled high density polyethylene – from bottles, pipes and mixed household waste – were compounded with virgin medium density polyethylene in an extruder. The ideal amount of recyclate was chosen based upon the impact resistance of different contents (25, 50 and 75%) of recycled plastic with the 50/50 blend found to have the best performance. Compression-moulded and rotationally-moulded samples were analysed through falling dart impact test, flexural test, melt flow rate and differential scanning calorimetry analysis. The impact results of the compression-moulded samples showed an increase in the impact resistance of the blends with a higher melt flow index and lower degree of crystallinity. The rotationally-moulded specimens displayed much lower impact resistance than the pure virgin plastic and a 20–30% reduction in the flexural moduli, which were ascribed to the crystalline structure of the part and issues in the blends’ rotomoulding process. It was concluded that blending virgin and recycled polyethylene for rotational moulding can be an effective way to further plastics recycling inside the Circular Economy context.

Valorization of apatite mining flotation residues by the manufacture of artificial aggregates

Mining residues are usually stockpiled because of their understudied physico-chemical properties and of their abundance, which make their valorization challenging. In this work, a cold-bonding granulation apparatus was built in order to transform a mining residue sludge from an apatite ore, into artificial aggregates suitable for use in civil engineering. A 25 rpm rotation speed, 15° angle relative to horizontal, and an ideal feeding amount of the granulation drum, as such as the liquid (supernatant) distribution method, were preliminary determined. Effects of rotation speed, liquid content, and granulation time were then studied to evaluate the best combination for appropriate aggregate size distribution. Box-Behnken experimental designs were used to investigate the evolution of compressive strength of the individual aggregates when Portland cement is added to the mix, and when granulation time varies, around the critical liquid content of 14% of total weight. Thus, the possible parameters combinations which allow a maximization of compressive strength without exclusively increasing cement content, were determined and used to confirm the Box-Behnken predictions. Spherical aggregates were thus manufactured, with diameters mainly comprised between 5 and 40 mm, and compressive strength comparable to those of commercialized aggregates, up to 7 MPa and to 3 MPa for aggregates with diameters respectively below and above 10 mm. Paths for greater consolidation as prior homogenization, use of humid cure conditions, and use of other additives emerge from literature and from the results presented.

Considering cross-cultural differences in sleep duration between Japanese and Canadian university students.

Sleep is a fundamental biological process that all humans exhibit, and there is much evidence that people suffer adverse health outcomes from insufficient sleep. Despite this evidence, much research demonstrates significant heterogeneity in the amounts that people sleep across cultures. This suggests that despite serving fundamental biological functions, sleep is also subject to cultural influence. Using self-report and actigraphy data we examined sleep among European Canadian, Asian Canadian, and Japanese university students. Significant cultural differences emerged in terms of various parameters of sleep (e.g. sleep time), and beliefs about sleep (e.g. perceived relation between sleep and health). Despite sleeping significantly less than European Canadians, Japanese participants slept less efficiently, yet reported being less tired and having better health. Moreover, relative to European Canadians, Japanese participants perceived a weaker relation between sleep and physical health, and had a significantly shorter ideal amount of sleep. Asian Canadians’ sleep behaviors and attitudes were largely similar to European Canadians suggesting that people acculturate to local cultural sleep norms.

Trunk fat volume can be a predictor of postoperative complications after gastrectomy: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundObesity can affect postoperative outcomes of gastrectomy. Visceral fat area is superior to body mass index in predicting postoperative complications. However, visceral fat area measurement is time-consuming and is not optimum for clinical use. Meanwhile, trunk fat volume (TFV) can be easily measured via bioelectrical impedance analysis. Hence, the current study aimed to determine the ability of TFV to predict the occurrence of complications after gastrectomy.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent curative gastrectomy for gastric cancer between November 2016 and November 2019. The trunk fat volume-to-the ideal amount (%TFV) ratio was obtained using InBody 770 before surgery. The patients were classified into the obese and nonobese groups according to %TFV (TFV-H group, ≥ 150%; TFV-L group, < 150%) and body mass index (BMI-H group, ≥ 25 kg/m2; BMI-L group, < 25 kg/m2). We compared the short-term postoperative outcomes (e.g., operative time, blood loss volume, number of resected lymph nodes, and duration of hospital stay) between the obese and nonobese patients. Risk factors for complications were assessed using logistic regression analysis.ResultsIn total, 232 patients were included in this study. The TFV-H and BMI-H groups had a significantly longer operative time than the TFV-L (p = 0.022) and BMI-L groups (p = 0.006). Moreover, the TFV-H group had a significantly higher complication rate (p = 0.004) and a lower number of resected lymph nodes (p < 0.001) than the TFV-L group. In the univariate analysis, %TFV ≥ 150, total or proximal gastrectomy, and open gastrectomy were found to be potentially associated with higher complication rates (p < 0.1 for all). Moreover, the multivariate analysis revealed that %TFV ≥ 150 (OR: 2.73; 95% CI: 1.37–5.46; p = 0.005) and total or proximal gastrectomy (OR: 3.57; 95% CI: 1.79–7.12; p < 0.001) were independently correlated with postoperative morbidity.Conclusions%TFV independently affected postoperative complications. Hence, it may be a useful parameter for the evaluation of obesity and a predictor of complications after gastrectomy.

Enhanced antibacterial activity of chitosan, guar gum and polyvinyl alcohol blend matrix loaded with amoxicillin and doxycycline hyclate drugs

This study focusses on the synthesis of a series of semisynthetic polymeric blended membranes based on chitosan, guar gum and polyvinyl alcohol for the sustained delivery of antibacterial drugs" with "A series of semisynthetic polymeric blended membranes based on GG (guar gum), CS (chitosan) and PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) was fabricated for the sustained delivery of antibacterial drugs. The drug employed in this study includes amoxicillin and doxycycline hyclate. Different ratios of chitosan CS and GG were blended with constant ratio of PVA to synthesize membranes using solution casting method. Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) study showed the blend formation, surface morphology and crystalline nature of polymeric membranes respectively. Successful bonding among the ingredients was confirmed by crystalline peak of CS cellulose at 22.6˚. Swelling test was used to analyze the water absorbing capacity of the membranes, indicating the hydrophilic nature, making these membranes more liable for drug release application. Results revealed that 25 mg was the ideal amount of drug loaded on blended membrane. Antimicrobial activity was promising against selected bacterial strains and cytotoxicity assay showed that the polymeric membranes have great potential for biomedical field. The membrane (B-2) was considered best amongst all based on the composition and ratio 3:1 of CS to GG, demonstrated good binding between constituents. These membranes can be employed for sustainable drug delivery process due to good swelling, antimicrobial and absorption characteristics.

Determination of Giving ‘Tips’ Using Fuzzy Logic To Determine Restaurant Customer Service Satisfaction

Fuzzy logic can be used to represent obscurity based on terms such as high, old, hot, cold, and so on. Fuzzy logic can extend the range of truth values to all real numbers in intervals between 0 and 1. Numbers in this interval represent the possibility that the statement given is “true” or “wrong”. The use of fuzzy logic can be used in everyday life, such as in the fields of medicine, engineering, agriculture, transportation, environmental science and also in economic and business applications. As in this study, it was used to calculate the ideal amount of ‘tips’ for restaurant waiters based on the service provided by restaurant waiters. The method used in this study is to use Mamdani fuzzy logic with the process of defuzzyfication using the Centroid of area (COA). The results of this study are that it can be determined the value crisp of giving tips to restaurant waiters is 45 thousand rupiah provided that the service provided for service = 7 (Excellent) and food service = 8 (Delicious)..