bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discrete-Time Adaptive Decentralized Control for Interconnected Multi-Machine Power Systems with Input Quantization
Authors: Ge Junxiong , Wang Mengyun , Hong Haimin , Zhao Jinyu , Cai Guowei , Zhang Xiuyu , Lu Pukun
Published: September 2022

This study contrives a discrete-time adaptive decentralized control algorithm with input quantization for interconnected multi-machine power systems with SVC. First, a dynamic surface scheme is applied to the excitation controller design, in which first-order digital low-pass filters are used to predict the next virtual control law, which overcomes the model conversion problem in backstepping. Therefore, the controller design and structure are simplified. Further, an improved hysteresis quantizer is utilized for amplitude quantization of control input signals; along with the discretization of time, this achieves digital decentralized control. Finally, semi-global uniformly ultimately boundedness (SGUUB) of the whole control system is demonstrated based on the Lyapunov stability theory, and the effectiveness of the proposed control algorithm is verified on the ModelingTech real-time simulation experimental platform for power electronics.
Time-Optimal Control Problem of Two Non-Synchronous Oscillators
Authors: Berlin Leonid , Galyaev Andrey , Lysenko Pavel
Published: September 2022

The time-optimal control problem for a system consisting of two non-synchronous oscillators is considered. Each oscillator is controlled with a shared limited scalar control. The objective of the control is to accelerate the oscillatory system to a given specific position, where the first oscillator must have non-zero phase coordinates, but the second one must remain motionless at the terminal moment. For an arbitrary number of unknown switching moments that determine the optimal relay control, the necessary extremum conditions in the form of nonlinear matrix equalities are proposed. The study of the necessary/sufficient conditions of the extremum made it possible to describe the reachability set in the phase space of the first oscillator, to find an analytical form of the curve corresponding to the two-switching control class, which also separates the reachability set of the three switching-control class. The corresponding theorems are proved and the dependence of the criteria on control constraints is shown. Matrix conditions for different classes of control switchings are found. All of the obtained analytical results are numerically validated and illustrated with mathematical modeling.
Accelerating Extreme Search of Multidimensional Functions Based on Natural Gradient Descent with Dirichlet Distributions
Authors: Abdulkadirov Ruslan , Lyakhov Pavel , Nagornov Nikolay
Published: September 2022

The high accuracy attainment, using less complex architectures of neural networks, remains one of the most important problems in machine learning. In many studies, increasing the quality of recognition and prediction is obtained by extending neural networks with usual or special neurons, which significantly increases the time of training. However, engaging an optimization algorithm, which gives us a value of the loss function in the neighborhood of global minimum, can reduce the number of layers and epochs. In this work, we explore the extreme searching of multidimensional functions by proposed natural gradient descent based on Dirichlet and generalized Dirichlet distributions. The natural gradient is based on describing a multidimensional surface with probability distributions, which allows us to reduce the change in the accuracy of gradient and step size. The proposed algorithm is equipped with step-size adaptation, which allows it to obtain higher accuracy, taking a small number of iterations in the process of minimization, compared with the usual gradient descent and adaptive moment estimate. We provide experiments on test functions in four- and three-dimensional spaces, where natural gradient descent proves its ability to converge in the neighborhood of global minimum. Such an approach can find its application in minimizing the loss function in various types of neural networks, such as convolution, recurrent, spiking and quantum networks.
Pattern Formation by Spinodal Decomposition in Ternary Lead-Free Sn-Ag-Cu Solder Alloy
Authors: Sun Jia , Liang Huaxin , Sun Shaofu , Hu Juntao , Teng Chunyu , Zhao Lingyan , Bai Hailong
Published: September 2022

In comparison to Pb-based solders which have a toxic effect, the tin-silver-copper (SAC) family of alloys have relatively strong reliability and are widely used in the electronics industry. Phase separation and coarsening phenomenon on the surface of 96.5 wt. % Sn-3.0 wt. % Ag-0.5 wt. % Cu (SAC305) solder products exhibit special microstructural features and offer opportunities for the microstructure control of microelectronic interconnects. However, the formation mechanism of such morphological patterns is still unknown. Here, we applied a combination of experimental and phase field methods to study how such patterns form. It was observed that the pattern was Sn-rich and exhibited the characteristic morphology of spinodal decomposition. Contrary to earlier findings that only binary systems like Sn-Pb and Sn-Bi experienced such phenomena, spinodal decomposition was firstly observed in ternary solder system Sn-Ag-Cu. Morphology of Sn-rich patterns depended on whether the spinodal decomposition reacted completely. SAC305 solder alloy was easily decomposed by Sn component after being heated to roughly 260 °C. The above conclusions could offer theoretical support for quantitatively controlling the microstructure of solder alloys and would enhance the quality of related products.
Increasing Wear Resistance of Low-Carbon Steel by Anodic Plasma Electrolytic Sulfiding
Authors: Mukhacheva Tatiana , Kusmanov Sergei , Suminov Igor , Podrabinnik Pavel , Khmyrov Roman , Grigoriev Sergey
Published: September 2022

The paper considers the problem of increasing the wear resistance of steel products. For the first time, the technology of anodic plasma electrolytic sulfiding is proposed to increase the wear resistance of low-carbon steel. The composition, structure, and frictional properties of modified surface layers after sulfiding have been studied. The type and mechanism of wear are determined. The influence of the sliding speed of the sample over the counter body on the friction and wear resistance of the samples after processing is analyzed. The possibility of saturation of low-carbon steel with sulfur in an electrolyte with sulfur compounds is shown. The iron sulfide FeS in the surface layer is found. It has been established that the thickness of the sulfide zone and the relative amount of FeS in it have a positive effect on reducing the coefficient of friction and mass wear. The greatest decrease in the friction coefficient by 5.5 times and weight wear by 64 times occurs after sulfiding at 500 °C for 10 min. It was found that the mechanism of wear of sulfided samples is fatigue wear during dry friction and plastic contact.
Application and Development of Biocontrol Agents in China
Authors: Meng Jiaxuan , Zhang Xiuyu , Han Xingshan , Fan Ben
Published: September 2022

While the growing population in the world has a large demand for food, agriculture and forestry are currently facing severe challenges due to phytopathogens and pests along with global warming. For half a century chemical pesticides and fertilizers have made a great contribution to agricultural production. However, the excessive use of chemical agents has caused obvious side effects on the environment and the sustainable development of agriculture in the long term. China has recorded one of the fastest economic growths for more than 20 years but at the cost of a seriously polluted environment. Since a decade ago, China has paid increasing attention to environment protection and taken intensified measures for pollution control and ecological restoration. In this context, the biocontrol agent industry in China has experienced a golden decade of rapid development. In this minireview, we will introduce the application and development of microorganism-based biocontrol agents in China over the past two decades.
Clinical Characteristics and Risk Factors for Intra-Abdominal Infection with Chryseobacterium indologenes after Orthotopic Liver Transplantation
Authors: Zhang Yixin , Zhao Xiaoyu , Xu Su , Li Ying
Published: September 2022

The incidence of hospital-acquired infections caused by Chryseobacterium indologenes (C. indologenes) is increasing. This study investigated the epidemiological and clinical features of C. indologenes intra-abdominal infections in patients who underwent orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). In this retrospective study, 53 consecutive non-replicate clinical isolates of C. indologenes were collected and identified from the OLT patients at a tertiary care university hospital in Shanghai in 2017. Genetic relatedness of the isolates was determined by enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus polymerase chain reaction DNA fingerprinting. Antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates was measured using the microdilution broth method. Nosocomial clonal transmission of C. indologenes was confirmed by bacterial homology analysis. All C. indologenes isolates were resistant to β-lactams, carbapenems, quinolones, and aminoglycosides, and showed susceptibility to trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole and minocycline. Multivariate risk modelling revealed that ≥2 bed transfers and an operation time of ≥8 h were independent risk factors for C. indologenes intra-abdominal infection after OLT. A nomogram was constructed based on the screened risk factors, which showed good concordance and accuracy. Clonal dissemination of C. indologenes in OLT patients was demonstrated and several risk factors for intra-abdominal infections were identified. Epidemiological surveillance of this organism and extensive surveillance programs are imperative worldwide.
Volatile Organic Compounds of Bryophytes from Peninsular Malaysia and Their Roles in Bryophytes
Authors: Koid Chin Wen , Shaipulah Nur Fariza M. , Lee Gaik Ee , Gradstein S. Robbert , Asakawa Yoshinori , Andriani Yosie , Mohammed Arifullah , Norhazrina Nik , Chia Poh Wai , Ramlee Muhammad Zulhimi
Published: September 2022

Volatile emissions from 22 bryophyte species from Peninsular Malaysia were collected using a dynamic headspace technique and analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Thirty organic compounds (VOCs) from eight different groups were detected in bryophytes from the montane forest in Cameron Highlands and the lowland dipterocarp forest in Lata Belatan. The headspace of bryophytes in Cameron Highlands was dominated by tetradecane, 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, decanal, pentanoic acid, 2,2,4-trimethyl-3-carboxyisopropyl, isobutyl ester, D-limonene and naphthalene. On the contrary, in the bryophyte headspace of Lata Belatan, naphthalene and tetradecane were dominant compounds. The elevational pattern detected in VOC composition of bryophytes appears to be an evolutionary feature at the family level that needs verification at other sites. The results also confirmed that the VOC composition of bryophytes is species-specific. The roles of VOCs in bryophytes are presented, including plant–plant communication and plant–insect interaction and as an additional taxonomic character in chemotaxonomy.
Arsenic Biosorption by the Macroalgae Chondracanthus chamissoi and Cladophora sp.
Authors: Otiniano Nélida Milly , De La Cruz-Noriega Magaly , Cabanillas-Chirinos Luis , Rojas-Flores Segundo , Muñoz-Ríos Miguel A. , Rojas-Villacorta Walter , Robles-Castillo Heber
Published: September 2022

The biosorption of arsenic (As) with macroalgae has aroused much interest as a clean and low-cost technology. To evaluate arsenic biosorption by Chondracanthus chamissoi and Cladophora sp., approximately 5 kg of algae was collected from Huanchaco’s beach and Sausacocha lake (Huamachuco), La Libertad. As biosorption was carried out in four column systems, with 2 g of algae pellets each, circulating As solutions of 0.25 and 1.25 ppm, respectively, at 300 mL/min cm2. As concentration was determined at 3 and 6 h of treatment by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Data were analyzed using Student’s t-test with 95% confidence. At 6 h, Chondracanthus chamissoi presented an As biosorption of 95.76% in a 0.25 ppm mg/L solution and 85.33% in a 1.25 mg/L solution. Cladophora sp., at 6 h, presented an As biosorption of 95.76% in a 0.25 mg/L solution and 42.03% in a 1.25 mg/L solution. It was concluded that Chondracanthus chamissoi achieves higher percentages of biosorption than Cladophora sp. in solutions of 1.25 mg/L As (p < 0.05), and that there is no significant difference between the biosorption percentages of Chondracanthus chamissoi and Cladophora sp. in a 0.25 mg/L solution of As at 6 h of treatment (p > 0.05).
Valorization of an Underutilized Waste from Olive Oil Production by Recovery of Hydroxytyrosol
Authors: Squillaci Giuseppe , Serino Ismene , Errichiello Sara , La Cara Francesco , Morana Alessandra
Published: September 2022

Hydroxytyrosol (HT) is one of the most powerful natural antioxidants, mainly contained in olive oil and its by-products. Here, a procedure for the preparation of an HT-enriched sample is described. An acidic aqueous extract (pH 1.25) from Olive Oil Dregs (OOD), a by-product from oil mills, was prepared by incubation at 37 °C for 1 h. The total phenolic content and HT amount were 6.24 ± 0.10 mg gallic acid equivalent/g OOD and 532.98 ± 5.78 μg/g OOD, respectively. Amberlite XAD16N and XAD7HP resins were used for the recovery of HT from the raw extract. Several elution conditions were tested with both resins, and elution with 25% ethanol provided the highest HT recovery (92.50% from XAD7HP). Antioxidant activities were assessed in the pool containing the highest quantity of HT. The results were compared with those of the raw extract. Ferric reducing antioxidant power values were comparable (95.71 ± 2.50 and 96.64 ± 13.47 μg ascorbic acid equivalent/mg for HT-enriched pool and raw extract, respectively), while the radical scavenging activity was higher for the pool (92.83% ± 0.44 and 44.12% ± 1.82, respectively). The results reported here demonstrate that HT can be recovered with a high yield from OOD, providing a preparation with high radical scavenging power. In addition, it is proved that this by-product, poorly considered up to now, can be usefully exploited.
A Novel Sensor System for In Vivo Perception Reconstruction Based on Long Short-Term Memory Networks
Authors: Han Ding , Yan Guozheng , Wang Lichao , Hua Fangfang , Yan Lin
Published: September 2022

Monitoring bodily pressure could provide valuable medical information for both doctors and patients. Long-term implantation of in vivo sensors is highly desirable in situations where perception reconstruction is needed. In particular, for fecal incontinence, artificial anal sphincters without perceptions could not remind patients when to defecate and even cause ischemic tissue necrosis due to uncontrolled clamping pressure. To address these issues, a novel self-packaging strain gauge sensor system is designed for in vivo perception reconstruction. In addition, long short-term memory (LSTM) networks, which show excellent performance in processing time series-related features and fitting properties, are used in this article to improve the prediction accuracy of the perception model. The proposed system has been tested and compared with the traditional linear regression (LR) approach using data from in vitro experiments. The results show that the Root-Mean-Square Error (RMSE) is reduced by more than 69%, which demonstrates that the prediction accuracy of the proposed LSTM model is higher than that of the LR model to reach a more accurate prediction of the amount of intestinal content. Furthermore, outcomes of in vivo experiments show that the robustness of the novel sensor system based on long short-term memory networks is verified through experiments with limited data.
Progress in Biosensors for the Point-of-Care Diagnosis of COVID-19
Authors: Pohanka Miroslav
Published: September 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly virulent infection that has caused a pandemic since 2019. Early diagnosis of the disease has been recognized as one of the important approaches to minimize the pathological impact and spread of infection. Point-of-care tests proved to be substantial analytical tools, and especially lateral flow immunoassays (lateral flow tests) serve the purpose. In the last few years, biosensors have gained popularity. These are simple but highly sensitive and accurate analytical devices composed from a selective molecule such as an antibody or antigen and a sensor platform. Biosensors would be an advanced alternative to current point-of-care tests for COVID-19 diagnosis and standard laboratory methods as well. Recent discoveries related to point-of-care diagnostic tests for COVID-19, the development of biosensors for specific antibodies and specific virus parts or their genetic information are reviewed.
Retinoic Acid Potentiates the Therapeutic Efficiency of Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BM-MSCs) against Cisplatin-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Azzam Maha M. , Hussein Abdelaziz M. , Marghani Basma H. , Barakat Nashwa M. , Khedr Mohsen M. M. , Heakel Nabil Abu
Published: September 2022

(1) Background: Hepatotoxicity is a common health problem, and oxidative stress plays a crucial role in its underlying mechanisms. We inspected the possible effect of retinoic acid (RA) in the potentiation of hepatoprotective effect of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) against Cisplatin (Cis)-induced hepatotoxicity. (2) Methods: 60 male Sprague Dawley rats (SD) were separated randomly and designated to six main equal groups as follows: (1) Control group, (2) Cis group (rats got Cis 7 mg/Kg i.p.), (3) Cis + vehicle group (as group 2, but rats received the (vehicle) culture media of BM-MSCs), (4) Cis as in group 2 + BM-MSCs (1x106), (5) Cis as for group 2 + RA 1 mg/Kg i.p., and (6) Cis and BM-MSCs as for group 3 + RA as for group 4. Liver injury was assessed by measuring liver enzymes (ALT, AST), while liver toxicity was evaluated by histopathological examination. Apoptotic marker caspase-3 protein was detected immunohistochemically. Real time PCR was performed to detect NADPH oxidase and TNF-α at transcription levels. Oxidative stress was investigated by colorimetric measurement of MDA, GSH and catalase. (3) Results: Contrary to the Cis group (p < 0.05), BM-MSCs/RA supplementation resulted in a substantial decrease in serum levels of hepatic impairment indicators such as ALT, AST and oxidative stress markers such as MDA, as well as an increase in hepatic GSH, Catalase, and a decrease in expression of TNF-α and downregulation of NADPH oxidase. The improvement after therapy with BM-MSCs/RA was confirmed by histopathological examination. Moreover, the downregulation of caspase-3 in liver tissue after BM-MSCs/RA treatment was validated by immunohistochemistry investigation. (4) Conclusions: BM-MSCs and RA attenuated Cis induced hepatotoxicity through downregulation of oxidative stress resulted in modulation of anti-inflammatory TNF-α and apoptosis caspase-3 indicating a promising role in hepatotoxicity.
Effective Solid Phase Extraction of Toxic Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids from Honey with Reusable Organosilyl-Sulfonated Halloysite Nanotubes
Authors: Schlappack Tobias , Weidacher Nina , Huck Christian W. , Bonn Günther K. , Rainer Matthias
Published: September 2022

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are plant secondary metabolites that have recently attracted attention as toxic contaminants in various foods and feeds as they are often harvested by accident. Furthermore, they prove themselves as hard to analyze due to their wide structural range and low concentration levels. However, even low concentrations show toxic behavior in the form of chronic liver diseases and possible carcinogenicity. Since sample preparation for this compound group is in need of more green and sustainable alternatives, modified halloysite nanotubes present an interesting approach. Based on the successful use of sulfonated halloysite nanotubes as inexpensive, easy-to-produce cation exchangers for solid phase extraction in our last work, this study deals with the further modification of the raw nanotubes and their performance in the solid phase extraction of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Conducting already published syntheses of two organosilyl-sulfonated halloysite nanotubes, namely HNT-PhSO3H and HNT-MPTMS-SO3H, both materials were used as novel materials in solid phase extraction. After the optimization of the extraction protocol, extractions of aqueous pyrrolizidine alkaloid mixtures showed promising results with recoveries ranging from 78.3% to 101.3%. Therefore, spiked honey samples were extracted with an adjusted protocol. The mercaptopropyl-sulfonated halloysite nanotubes revealed satisfying loading efficiencies and recoveries. Validation was then performed, which displayed acceptable performance for the presented method. In addition, reusability studies using HNT-MPTMS-SO3H for solid phase extraction of an aqueous pyrrolizidine alkaloid mixture demonstrated excellent results over six cycles with no trend of recovery reduction or material depletion. Therefore, organosilyl-sulfonated halloysite nanotubes display a green, efficient and low-cost alternative to polymeric support in solid phase extraction of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids from complex honey matrix.
Saline Diffusion Modeling for Sodium Chloride Aqueous Solutions: Freezing for Desalination Purposes
Authors: Castillo-Téllez Beatriz , Romero Rosenberg J. , Allaf Karim , Pilatowsky-Figueroa Isaac
Published: September 2022

Given the high human demand for freshwater and its consequent scarcity, desalination processing seems to be a key solution, given the vast amount of seawater on the planet. Currently, desalination plants provide about 95 million m3/day freshwater in 177 countries worldwide. However, desalination is an energy-intensive, demanding technique that generally uses fossil fuels and contributes to global warming via greenhouse gas emissions. Freezing/melting desalination (F/M) uses about 70% less thermal energy than the boiling process. Unfortunately, this technique is rarely used, mainly because of salt separation problems at low temperatures close to 0 °C. Most models have determined their results assuming a saline concentration value of the retained liquid; however, there is a significant disagreement in this value. This study proposes a unidimensional model based on thermal and mass diffusion evolution. The model predicts the successful separation of salt-free ice to avoid salt diffusion before encapsulation; the process depends on temperature, saline gradients, and time. The calculations in this paper are based on the salt concentration in the liquid-solid interface, which has been extensively studied, achieving an accurate performance of the proposed model.
Practical Formalism-Based Approaches for Multi-Resolution Modeling and Simulation
Authors: Bae Jang Won , Moon Il-Chul
Published: September 2022

Multi-resolution modeling (MRM) has been considered as an ideal form of simulation to acquire low-resolution scalability as well as high-resolution modeled details. Although both practical and theoretical interests exist in MRM, actual implementations were quite different in terms of cases and methods. Specifically, MRM implementations range from parameter-based interoperation to model exchanges with different resolutions, yet it is difficult to observe a method that focuses on both of these aspects. To this end, this paper introduces a formalism or multi-resolution translational Discrete Event System Specification (MRT-DEVS). Focusing on the practical perspective, MRT-DEVS intends to ease the implementation’s difficulty and reduce the simulation’s execution costs. Specifically, MRT-DEVS embeds state and event translation functions into the model’s specifications so that it enables MRM with less complex mechanisms in terms of operations. Using the provided case study and a reduction to other MRM methods, the theoretical soundness of the proposed method is supported. Moreover, we discussed the pros and the cons of the proposed method from various MRM perspectives. We expect that with all the provided information, MRMS users would consider the proposed method as a practical option to implement their models.
Effects of Chronic Mild Stress on Cardiac Autonomic Activity, Cardiac Structure and Renin–Angiotensin–Aldosterone System in Male Rats
Authors: Bangsumruaj Janpen , Kijtawornrat Anusak , Kalandakanond-Thongsong Sarinee
Published: September 2022

Stress is associated with cardiovascular disease. One accepted mechanism is autonomic imbalance. In this study, we investigated the effects of chronic mild stress (CMS) on cardiac autonomic control, cardiac structure and renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) activity in adult male Sprague Dawley rats. The CMS model provides a more realistic simulation of daily stress. The animals were divided into control and CMS, and were exposed to 4-week mild stressors. The electrocardiogram recording, sucrose intake and parameters related to stress, cardiac alterations and RAAS were determined. The results showed that CMS had lower body weight and higher sucrose intake. The heart rate variability (HRV) revealed that CMS increased autonomic activity without affecting its balance. The increased RAAS activity with upregulated angiotensin type 1 receptor mRNA expression was shown in CMS. The increased sympathetic activity or RAAS was correlated with stress. Moreover, the altered cardiac structure (i.e., heart weight and cardiomyocyte cross-sectional area) were correlated with stress-, sympathetic- and RAAS-related parameters. These indicated that CMS-induced cardiac hypertrophy was the result of both sympathetic and RAAS activation. Therefore, it could be concluded that 4-week CMS in male rats induced negative emotion as shown by increased sucrose intake, and increased cardiac autonomic and RAAS activities, which may be responsible for mild cardiac hypertrophy. The cardiac hypertrophy herein was possibly in an adaptive, not pathological, stage, and the cardiac autonomic function was preserved as the autonomic activities were in balance.
Electrochemical Oxygen Evolution Reaction on NixFe3-xO4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0) in Alkaline Medium at 25ºC
Authors: Chauhan Pankaj , Lal Basant
Published: September 2022

Spinel ferrites (NixFe3-xO4; x = 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1.0) have been prepared at 550ºC by egg white auto-combustion route using egg white at 550ºC and characterized by physicochemical (TGA, IR, XRD, and SEM) and electrochemical (CV and Tafel polarization) techniques. The presence of characteristic vibration peaks in FT-IR and reflection planes in XRD spectra confirmed the formation of spinel ferrites. The prepared oxides were transformed into oxide film on glassy carbon electrodes by coating oxide powder ink using the nafion solution and investigated their electrocatalytic performance for OER in an alkaline solution. The cyclic voltammograms of the oxide electrode did not show any redox peaks in oxygen overpotential regions. The iR-free Tafel polarization curves exhibited two Tafel slopes (b1 = 59–90 mV decade−1 and b2 = 92–124 mV decade−1) in lower and higher over potential regions, respectively. Ni-substitution in oxide matrix significantly improved the electrocatalytic activity for oxygen evolution reaction. Based on the current density for OER, the 0.75 mol Ni-substituted oxide electrode was found to be the most active electrode among the prepared oxides and showed the highest value of apparent current density (~9 mA cm−2 at 0.85 V) and lowest Tafel slope (59 mV decade−1). The OER on oxide electrodes occurred via the formation of chemisorbed intermediate on the active sites of the oxide electrode and follow the second-order mechanism.
A modified tubed anterolateral free flap for reconstruction of total laryngopharyngectomy
Authors: Haines Morgan , Karagiannis Phaethon , Haddad Roger , Southwell-Keely James , Gallagher Richard , Moisidis Elias
Published: September 2022

**Background**: A tubed anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap has become a reliable option for laryngopharyngeal defects; however, successful reconstruction remains challenging. Prevention of fistulae, resurfacing of the neck and flap monitoring are key issues that surgeons have sought to address through various flap modifications. Here we describe a chimeric design of the tubed ALT flap which tackles these and other challenges.**Methods**: Fourteen cases requiring ALT flaps were harvested for reconstruction of total laryngopharyngectomy defects between 2017 and 2019. Each flap was raised on at least two perforators of the descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery (dbLCFA) or both the dbLCFA and transverse branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery (tbLCFA) to create a chimeric flap. The primary cutaneous paddle was tubed to reconstruct the oesophagus, and the secondary component was inset to the neck as a skin-monitoring paddle. A strip of vascularised vastus lateralis was harvested in the primary paddle continuing with the flap and sutured along the neopharynx suture line, an additional layer preventing anastomotic leak.**Results**: Patients averaged 61.1 years of age. An average of 2.4 perforators were included per flap. All flaps survived. Donor sites were closed primarily in all cases. Barium swallow was performed in 71.4 per cent of cases (10/14). Fistula occurred in 7.1 per cent of patients (1/14). Patients were followed up for an average of 13 months.**Conclusion**: Our chimeric ALT free flap design provides a reliable pharyngeal reconstruction, and allows for flap monitoring and neck resurfacing when required, with a low rate of clinically significant leaks or fistula.
Severe abdominal fat necrosis following complications of cryolipolysis: a case report
Authors: Arasu Alexis , Sreedharan Sadhishaan , Quinn Tam , Holden Dane , Salerno Stephen
Published: September 2022

Cryolipolysis is a non-invasive technique for permanent, localised fat reduction and was first described in 2007.1 It is marketed as a safer alternative for removal of excess adipose tissue and body contouring, avoiding traditional invasive risks associated with liposuction.^1^ Based on principles of cold-induced panniculitis, whereby lipid-rich tissues are more susceptible to cold injury compared to the surrounding water-rich tissue, cryolipolysis relies on cold-induced apoptosis of fat cells translating to a measurable fat reduction.^2^Current literature emphasises its overall safety and patient tolerability, with the majority of complications reported limited to erythema, swelling and minor discomfort to treated regions.^3–5^ There are, however, isolated reports of frostbite-induced cutaneous ulceration from direct thermal injury.^6–9^ These incidents were largely attributed to inexperienced service providers and faulty equipment, and are therefore relatively rare. We report a novel case of a 26-year-old female who sustained an infected, full-thickness abdominal burn with underlying fat necrosis as a complication of her cryolipolysis treatment. This case should serve as a caution to patients and service providers of this potential risk and the possible complications that may ensue and, importantly, emphasise when to escalate care.
The management of hereditary melanoma, FAMMM syndrome and germline CDKN2A mutations: a narrative review
Authors: Yeap Isobel , Becker Therese , Azimi Farhad , Kernohan Michael
Published: September 2022

Familial atypical multiple mole melanoma (FAMMM) syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant disorder, in which patients present with a large number of melanocytic naevi and a strong history of malignant melanoma, usually at a young age. The most common genetic alteration, implicated in 40 per cent of FAMMM syndrome families, is a mutation of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A).^1^ CDKN2A encodes the tumour suppressor gene p16INK4a, a critical cell cycle inhibitor.^2^ The diagnosis and management of patients with FAMMM syndrome is relevant to the plastic surgeon who manages melanoma. However, clear guidelines on its diagnostic criteria and its relationship to associated but distinct syndromes, such as hereditary melanoma and B-K mole syndrome, are lacking in the extant literature. The aim of this review is to clarify the diagnostic criteria and management principles for FAMMM syndrome. We propose a new system of classifying FAMMM syndrome patients as a subset of all patients with hereditary melanoma. We also present a management algorithm for these distinct patient groups (FAMMM syndrome, hereditary melanoma and germline CDKN2A mutations).
Single-stage kite flap, tendon transfer and arthroplasty in a thumb injury: a case report
Authors: Loi Duncan , Darveniza Ella , Hsieh Frank
Published: September 2022

The kite flap, a pedicled fasciocutaneous flap based on the first dorsalmetacarpal artery (FDMA), has been used to reconstruct a variety of handdefects including the dorsal thumb.^1^ Similarly, the extensor indicis proprius(EIP) tendon transfer is commonly used for extensor pollicis longus (EPL)tendon reconstruction.^2^ Tendon interposition arthroplasty is an evolvingtechnique with potential application for the small joints of the hand, a fieldin which current existing surgical techniques suffer from various limitations.^3^We describe a novel combination of these techniques, used to reconstruct atraumatic composite defect to the dorsal thumb with loss of the radial condylarhead, segmental loss of the extensor pollicis longus tendon and the overlyingsoft tissue.
Do you need to be tapped on the shoulder?
Authors: Archer Brett
Published: September 2022

Surgeons with at least a decade of clinical experience should consider applying becoming an examiner, encourages Brett Archer
Cosmetic surgery changes for patient safety
Authors: Langley Sally
Published: September 2022

The required crackdown on inadequately trained medical practitioners performing cosmetic surgery must occur and soon.
From your kidneys to your eyes: lessons from computational kidney models
Authors: Stadt Melissa M. , Layton Anita
Published: September 2022

Purpose: The purpose of this review is to describe computational models that have been developed for studying kidney function and howthese models may be adapted to study the eyes.
Methods: We derive equations for modeling solute andwater transport across epithelial cell membranes in the kidney. These equations describe mass conservation, as well membrane transport via cotransporters, exchangers, and primary active transport.
Results: Wedescribe howcomputational models of renal transport have been applied to investigate kidney function in physiological and pathophysiological conditions.
Conclusion: The computational models herein described for the kidney may be adapted to study ocular functions and dysfunction.
Pengaruh Konsentrasi Ekstrak Bawang Merah Dan Bahan Setek Terhadap Pertumbuhan Tanaman Melati (Jasminum sambac L.)
Authors: Eviyati R , Riana Ade Yuni , Dukat Dukat
Published: September 2022

This study aims to determine the effect of the combined concentration of shallot extract and cutting material on growth of jasmine (Jasminum sambac. L). This research was carried out in the village of Cilengkrang Girang, Pasaleman District, Cirebon Regency. In April to July 2021. The method in this research is the experimental method with non factorial completely randomized design. The treatment consisted of combination of cutting materials and shallot extract concentration. (A)= top stam cutting + concentration of 50%, (B) = middle stam cutting + concentration of 50%, (C)= bottom stam cutting + concentration of 50%, (D)= top stam cutting + concentration of 75%, (E)= middle stam cutting + concentration of 75%, (F)= bottom stam cutting + concentration of 75%, (G)= top stam cutting + concentration of 100%, (H)= middle stam cutting + concentration of 100%, (I)= bottom stam cutting + concentration of 100%. There were 9 treatment combinations repeated 3 times each, so there were 27 experimental unit treatments. The result show that the concentration of shallot extract and cutting material had no significant effect on growth of jasmine (Jasminum sambac. L) cultivar Bandar Arum.
Elastisitas Transmisi Harga Komoditas Buah Pepaya Di Kabupaten Indramayu Jawa Barat
Authors: Gumelar Asep Ikhsan
Published: September 2022

Corn (Zea mays L.) is one of the agricultural products whose seeds are used for food. Therefore, a good storage method is needed in order to increase the percentage of seed quality. Storage is one of a series of activities carried out after harvest which aims to reduce or reduce seed moisture content and can also increase the vigor resistance and viability of seeds to the environment. There are two types of storage methods, namely traditional storage methods and modern storage methods. The modern storage method is a development of the traditional development method, only the tools and materials used are different. the lowest percentage germination rate of the six parameters observed was the traditional storage method in jerry cans. This means that the percentage of seed germination rates from the four methods with increased germination rate (>) is in accordance with the observed data even though the seed storage period is at the same time, namely from May to September.
Pengaruh Takaran Bahan Organik Terhadap Pertumbuhan dan Hasil Tanaman Kubis Bunga (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis sub var. cauliflora DC) Pada Dua Sistim Pengairan Yang Berbeda Di Dataran Rendah
Authors: Nurlenawati Netti , Laksono Rommy Andhika
Published: September 2022

The study was aimed to determine and analyze the effects of organic material on the cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var . botrytis sub var. cauliflora DC ) in different irrigation systems during dry season in the lowlands. This experiment was conducted in paddy fields in the village of Sukapura, Rawamerta Karawang from May to August 2021. The experimental design was Split Plot Design. As the main plot was the irrigation system (A), consisted of two levels: (1) a1 = furrow irrigation, and (2) a2 = sprinkler irrigation (manual). The split plot was the dose of organic material (B), consisted of 4 levels: (1) b0 = no organic material (cow manure 0 t ha-1), (2) b1 = cow manure 5 t ha-1, (3) b2 = cow manure 10 t ha-1, and (4) b3 = cow manure 15 t ha-1. Each treatment was repeated four times. The results showed that there were significant interaction between irrigation systems and the dose of organic matter on the number of leaves at 14 days after planting (dap), stem diameter at 28 days after planting, height curd and weight curd. There were not any effects from irrigation systems on the growth and yield of cauliflower. There were effects from the dose of organic material on growth and yield of cauliflower. The dose of cow manure at 15 t ha-1 gave the highest growth and yield of curd with leaves weight 936.13 g, total yield of 18.34 kg per plot equivalent to 30.57 t ha-1 and marketable yield per plot is 16.81 kg equivalent to 28.02 t ha-1.
Preferensi Konsumen Terhadap Pembelian Sayuran Organik Di Kota Surakarta Pada Masa Pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Arum Sari Mayang Angling , Antriyandarti Ernoiz , Khairiyakh Refa’ul
Published: September 2022

The Covid-19 pandemic has led to increased public awareness to change their lifestyle to be healthier. As a result, people are becoming more selective in consuming vegetables, so they choose to consume organic vegetables, which are considered safer. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of variables such as age, income, education level, the number of family members who have been infected with Covid-19, and close people who have been infected with Covid-19, which affect the purchase of organic vegetables, consumer preferences for the attributes of organic vegetables and the most important attributes for consumers. In deciding to buy organic vegetables in Surakarta City during the Covid-19 pandemic. The basic method is descriptive. The sample was determined by accidental sampling, and the city of Surakarta was deliberately chosen as the research location. The sampling technique used is accidental sampling. The data analysis method used is the method of multiple linear regression analysis, Chi-Square, and fishbein multi-attribute analysis methods. The results showed that the independent variables significantly affected the dependent variable together. Income variables, the number of family members infected with Covid-19, and the closest people infected with Covid-19 have a significant effect on purchasing organic vegetables in Surakarta City during the Covid-19 pandemic. Attributes of organic vegetables that have become consumer preferences during the covid-19 pandemic are good physical perfection where broad leaves do not have holes; freshness level is very fresh (<1 day), bright light green color, plastic packaging with the organic label, low price (<Rp. 10,000,-/package 200 grams), and medium-size (200-500 grams). The most important attribute in consumer considerations when deciding to buy organic vegetables, especially in Surakarta City during the Covid-19 pandemic, is the level of freshness. The order of attributes of organic vegetables from the most important to the least important is the level of freshness, physical perfection, packaging, color, price, and size.
The effectiveness of health promotion using social media on adolescent knowledge about Covid-19 in the work area of Health Center Batu Panjang, Rupat District, Bengkalis Regency
Authors: Cahtiya Nanda Tri , Marlina Hastuti , Rany Novita
Published: September 2022

Health promotion through teen social media can increase knowledge about Covid-19 by 95% and influence behavior to prevent Covid-19 by 77%. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the use of social media for health promotion on youth Covid-19 knowledge in the workplace at Batu Panjang Health Centre, Rupat District, Bengalis Regency in 2021. This type of research is quantitative analysis with a quasi-experimental design. The population for this study was all 12th graders at Rupat High School, for a total of 30 respondents. Research tools are using Whatsapp and Instagram to promote health. Collecting data using a questionnaire via google form. Data analysis used univariate and bivariate tests. The result of the research is that there is a difference in the average value of respondents' knowledge before and after health promotion using whatsapp and instagram is 63.73 and 85.33 in the whatsapp group and 64.13 and 80.00 in the instagram group. The results of the paired-samples T test (dependent T test) showed that health promotion was effective regarding Covid-19 using social media WhatsApp and Instagram to increase respondents' knowledge about COVID-19 in the Batu Panjang Public Health Center, Rupat District, Bengkalis Regency. It is recommended to the puskesmas and schools to partner in the implementation of school children's services by using social media so that the prevention of covid-19 is maximized.
Experiencias museísticas y comportamiento del consumidor en tiempos de COVID-19: una mirada prospectiva
Authors:   , Duran Andrea Mabel
Published: September 2022

Entre marzo y abril de 2020 casi todos los museos del mundo cerraron sus puertas ante la declaración de la pandemia por COVID-19, por lo que resultó imperioso buscar alternativas para mantener el contacto con el visitante habitual y acercar sus propuestas a nuevos públicos. El aislamiento forzoso resultó un verdadero desafío para las instituciones culturales que pudieron afrontar mediante distintas estrategias digitales. En la búsqueda de conocer las diversas estrategias asumidas por los museos, un estudio documental de fuentes secundarias disponibles hizo foco en casos testigo de museos europeos, latinoamericanos y argentinos, tomando en consideración su tamaño y tipo, para detectar similitudes y diferencias. Asimismo, una encuesta masiva on line, buscó indagar el impacto, alcance y grado de aceptación de estas estrategias y del uso de aplicaciones móviles en la experiencia museística. Para finalizar, y ya pensando en la llamada “nueva normalidad”, se diseña y propone el desarrollo de una aplicación móvil que acerque a los visitantes tomando en cuenta sus preferencias e intereses, brindando experiencias memorables con la convicción de que las visitas ya no son simples acciones culturales sino la búsqueda de experiencias.
Exploring the Value of Double Marking in Dissertation Assessments: Classical Test Theory and Item Response Theory Approaches
Authors: Steele James , Shaw Matthew
Published: September 2022

Extended constructed response assessment methods such as the dissertation are common in higher education assessment and are typically afforded considerable weight in overall student assessment. Thus, quality assurance processes such as double marking are commonly implemented. However, the value of such processes has been questioned. Further, the measurement properties of the dissertation assessment method have received little attention. As such, we explored the dissertation assessment method through both Classical Test Theory (CTT) and Item Response Theory (IRT) approaches using a historical dataset of first and second marker grades. Under CTT we found poor agreement between markers which could threaten the validity of the true grades assigned to students. However, under IRT models we found that markers showed greater agreement regarding the underlying latent abilities thought to give rise to the extended constructed response that is the dissertation. We conclude by questioning the value of double marking processes. Grades *qua* grades (i.e., true grades) typically show poor agreement between markers suggesting double marking may be a waste of resource. Instead, the determination of grades from latent ability score using an IRT measurement model, which showed greater agreement between markers, might enable a single marker to provide a valid grade to students.
Filozoficzne szczeliny w prozie ucznia pierwszego etapu edukacyjnego – zarys kategoryzacji tekstów
Authors: Warzocha Anna
Published: September 2022

W sytuacji, gdy w Europie trwa brutalna wojna, poważne traktowanie pytań dotyczących spraw fundamentalnych, odnajdywanie punktów odniesienia, poszukiwanie istoty i sensu istnienia, staje się jeszcze bardziej pilną ludzką potrzebą, niż dotychczas. Taka sytuacja dotyczy nie tylko osób dojrzałych, ale także społeczeństwa niedorosłego, w tym także młodszych uczniów. Jednocześnie uwypukla się konieczność redefinicji pedagogii, która teraz w sposób szczególny powinna zwracać uwagę na wymóg traktowania kształcenia i wychowania przez pryzmat filozoficznej triady: aksjologii, ontologii i epistemologii. Szansę na takie działanie daje zmodyfikowana pierwsza komunikacja literacka, podkreślająca teksty nie rezygnujące ze swoistości literackiej i charakteryzujące się utajonym filozoficznym kodem. Myślę przede wszystkim o prozie, w której odnaleźć można utwory o strukturze utrwalonej w tradycji literackiej, dodatkowo kwalifikujące się do kategorii literatury audiowizualnej czy literatury wspólnej. Centrum zainteresowania takich tekstów stanowi prowadzący do koniecznej refleksji odbiorcy i metaforycznego czytania świata filozoficzny namysł, nieoczywiste uchwycenie kluczowych zagadnień.Przedmiotem artykułu jest przede wszystkim próba skategoryzowania filozoficznej literatury dla dzieci, której uporządkowanie zostało zaproponowane per analogiam do badań nad muzycznością i audiowizualnością w literaturze. Tekst akcentuje grupę utworów, w których filozoficzne zagadnienia pojawiają się na prawach kontekstu i dla których dydaktyczny model oparty jest na rozmowie w rozumieniu Zofii Agnieszki Kłakówny (2016).