bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduction of Fuel Utilization Through Oxygen-Enriched Combustion in a Reheat Furnace Pusher-Type
Authors: Martinez Zambrano Francisco J. , Silaen Armin K. , Tian Kelly , Maiolo Joe , Zhou Chenn
Published: July 2021

Steelmaking is an energy-intensive process. Thus, energy efficiency is highly important. Several stages of steelmaking involve combustion processes. One of the most energy-consuming processes in steelmaking is the slab reheating process in a reheat furnace (RF). The energy released by fuel combustion is used to heat steel slabs to their proper hot-rolling temperature. The steel slabs move through the reheat furnace passing the three stages of heating called: Preheating Zone (PZ), Heating Zone (HZ), and Soaking Zone (SZ) to finally leave the discharge door at a rolling temperature of 2375 °F. One way to improve a reheat furnace’s fuel consumption is by implementing oxygen-enriched combustion. This study investigates the implementation of oxygen-enriched combustion in a pusher-type reheat furnace. The increment of oxygen in the combustion process allows for increasing the furnace gas temperature. Consequently, the oxygen enrichment approach allows for the reduction of fuel injection. The principal goal of this investigation is to model the combustion-based on oxygen-enrichment and develop parametric studies of fuel injection rates. The different simulations aim to match the slab heat flux profile of the industrial reheat furnace pusher-type. Computational fluid dynamics are used to generate the slab heat flux distribution. To reach more uniform slab heating, oxygen and fuel ports were alternated. Also, injection angles were modified to optimize slab heating and avoid the impact of hot spots. Thermocouple readings of the industrial reheat furnace are compared to simulation results. The results determined that 40–45% fuel reduction can be achieved.
Viscosity and Natural Evaporation Studies: Aqueous Solutions of Surfactants and Hydrotopes
Authors: Dikici Birce , Kaminis Angelos , Stirnweis Dakotah , Stollenwerk Lauren , Jiang Qi
Published: July 2021

Surfactants are known to affect evaporation performance of solutions. They are studied in relation to water loss prevention. In previous studies, evaporation suppressants have been effective in the laboratory and at small scales such as on swimming pools, ponds, and small lakes. Surfactants could be useful under drought conditions in arid areas of the world. Previous researchers conducted tests to estimate the spreading and coverage efficiencies of evaporation suppressants. Effectiveness of the suppressants in reducing evaporation is evaluated. Monolayers are one molecule thick films that form at a phase boundary such as the air-water interface. The optimal methods of spreading and reapplication of monolayers need to be determined. Hydrotopes are organic salt compounds and they improve the ability of water to dissolve other molecules. Hydrotropy is one of the solubility enhancement techniques which enhance solubility with use of hydrotropes.

The purpose of the research is to measure the viscosity and natural evaporation of selected aqueous surfactant and hydrotope solutions. The viscosity of the aqueous-surfactant solutions at various concentrations are measured with falling-ball viscometer. The surfactants are shown to increase viscosity when added to distilled water. Some surfactants and hyrotopes reduced natural convection water loss over five days showing an effect on evaporation rates.
Empirical Determination of the Design Influence of Large Industrial Rotary Kilns for Ferronickel Production on Heat Transfer and Energy Performance
Authors: Ruiz Janneth , Ardila Antonio , Rueda Bernardo , Castillo Andy , Pardo Yuleisy , Corredor Lesme , Maury Heriberto
Published: July 2021

In the industrial process of ferronickel production from lateritic minerals, the influence of design factors, constructive and dimensional aspects on the heat transfer and energy performance of the equipment have been little addressed. The literature focuses on cement kilns or iron and steel production applications. This work compares the influence of the approaches considered in the early phases of the design process on heat transfer and energy performance for two ferronickel rotary kilns. For this purpose, a retrospective analysis was realized identifying requirements, operating principles, and approaches applied in the definition of specification and conceptual design. This analysis was carried out, taking into account one operation year data of two rotary calcining kilns of 185 meters and 135 meters in length, both of 6 meters in diameter and similar feeding rate between 170,000 and 180000 kilograms per hour. The analysis showed that kiln 1 had a functional approach in the early phases of the design process, while kiln 2 additionally has an environmental and energy approach, which allowed to improve the heat transfer and energy performance. This was verified with software based on the AHP method. The software results showed that counter-current and cross-flow rotary kiln 2 is a better conceptual design alternative for environmental and energy requirements than counter-current rotary kiln 1.
Supervised Learning Algorithms Applied in the Zoning of Susceptibility by Hydroclimatological Geohazards
Authors: Aristizabal Jaime , Motta Carlos , Obregon Nelson , Capachero Carlos , Real Leonardo , Chaves Julian
Published: July 2021

Cenit Transporte y Logística de Hidrocarburos (CENIT), operator of about 7000 km of hydrocarbon transport systems, which constitutes it the largest operator in Colombia, has developed a strategic alliance to structure an adaptive geotechnical susceptibility zoning using supervised learning algorithms. Through this exercise, has been implemented operational decision inferences with simple linguistic values.

The difficulties proposed by the method considers the hydroclimatology of Colombia, which is conditioned by several phenomena of Climate Variability that affect the atmosphere at different scales such as the Oscillation of the Intertropical Convergence Zone - ITCZ (seasonal scale) and the occurrence of macroclimatic phenomena such as El Niño-La Niña Southern Oscillation (ENSO) (interannual scale). Likewise, it considers the geotechnical complexity derived from the different geological formation environments, the extension and geographical dispersion of the infrastructure, and its interaction with the climatic regimes, to differentiate areas of interest based on the geohazards of hydrometeorological origin, when grouped into five clusters.

The results of this exercise stand out the importance of keep a robust record of the events that affect the infrastructure of hydrocarbon transportation systems and using data-guided intelligence techniques to improve the tools that support decision-making in asset management.
Risk Areas Zoning Using a New 3D Seismic Refraction Technique in the Gas Pipeline Right-of Way of a Gas and Condensed Field in the Peruvian Jungle
Authors: Luque Nereyda , León Oscar , Arriola Milagritos , Mariscal Carlos , Estofanero Greydy
Published: July 2021

The use of the new three-dimensional refraction technique was applied around the right-of-way (DDV) of the hydrocarbon gathering pipeline system (U-200), approximately 14.4 km long and 1.5 km wide. This technique included: a) processing of field seismic gathers data in conjunction with LIDAR-DTM topographic information, with which a 3D model of P-wave velocities was constructed; b) calibration of the P-velocity model with field data; and c) interpretation of the final P-velocity model.

The application of the new technique allowed the three-dimensional study of the subsurface around the U-200 by including the geological characterization of the velocities and the elaboration of several predictive geological maps (lithology, structural, topography, etc.). Correlations of these maps allowed the building of risk factor maps, in which areas with higher or lower geodynamic risk can be directly identified. These areas represented the zones where the pipeline/flowline was most prone to collapse.
Towards a Structured Maintenance and Integrity Management Program of Hydrocarbon Transport Systems - Emphasis on Geohazards
Authors: Chaves Agudelo Julián Fernando , Amórtegui Gil José Vicente
Published: July 2021

The main objective of the integrity and maintenance professionals of hydrocarbon transportation companies is to ensure the integrity and availability of transportation systems by monitoring and controlling the risks to which they are exposed. This article presents a series of aspects that give scope to a structured maintenance and integrity management program, and that can be established in each company based on its organizational structure and culture. Some examples are presented to take into account in geohazard management and that focus on achieving a holistic and prospective view of the professionals who manage geotechnical risk.
Curating a Culture: The Portrayal of Disability Stereotypes by Paralympians on Instagram
Authors: Mitchell Fallon R. , van Wyk Paula M. , Santarossa Sara
Published: July 2021

Through user-generated posts on Instagram, Paralympians’ self-presentation may mitigate stereotypes associated with disability, counteracting negative assumptions. Using content analyses and paired t tests, visual content posted by Paralympians was examined for the portrayal of disability stereotypes. Compared with the social media content of able-bodied athletes, which typically focus on personal and lifestyle aspects, the majority of the Paralympians’ visual content depicted them engaged in sport or fitness-related activities. By posting content that depicts physical competence and elite abilities, Paralympians may change the narrative to promote the capabilities of athletes with a disability. Through the portrayal of sport and exercise engagement on social media platforms, these Paralympians are potentially mitigating disability stereotypes with the intent to curate a culture that is more accepting and inclusive.
Model-based aversive learning in humans is supported by preferential task state reactivation
Authors: Wise Toby , Liu Yunzhe , Chowdhury Fatima , Dolan Raymond J.
Published: July 2021

The human brain simulates the outcomes of actions to enable avoidance of danger.
Illuminating Key Microbial Players and Metabolic Processes Involved in the Remineralization of Particulate Organic Carbon in the Ocean’s Twilight Zone by Metaproteomics
Authors: Kong Ling-Fen , He Yan-Bin , Xie Zhang-Xian , Luo Xing , Zhang Hao , Yi Sheng-Hui , Lin Zhi-Long , Zhang Shu-Feng , Yan Ke-Qiang , Xu Hong-Kai , Jin Tao , Lin Lin , Qin Wei , Chen Feng , Liu Si-Qi , Wang Da-Zhi
Published: July 2021

The ocean’s twilight zone is a critical zone where more than 70% of the sinking particulate organic carbon (POC) are remineralized. Therefore, the twilight zone determines the size of biological carbon storage in the ocean and regulates the global climate.
Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 Genome Sequencing: Quality Criteria and Low-Frequency Variants
Authors: Jacot Damien , Pillonel Trestan , Greub Gilbert , Bertelli Claire
Published: July 2021

Although many laboratories worldwide have developed their sequencing capacities in response to the need for SARS-CoV-2 genome-based surveillance of variants, only a few reported some quality criteria to ensure sequence quality before lineage assignment and submission to public databases. Hence, we aimed here to provide simple quality control criteria for SARS-CoV-2 sequencing to prevent erroneous interpretation of low-quality or contaminated data.
Semliki Forest Virus Chimeras with Functional Replicase Modules from Related Alphaviruses Survive by Adaptive Mutations in Functionally Important Hot Spots
Authors: Teppor Mona , Žusinaite Eva , Karo-Astover Liis , Omler Ailar , Rausalu Kai , Lulla Valeria , Lulla Aleksei , Merits Andres
Published: July 2021

Alphaviruses cause debilitating symptoms and have caused massive outbreaks. There are currently no approved antivirals or vaccines for treating these infections.
Long-Term Evolution of SARS-CoV-2 in an Immunocompromised Patient with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Borges Vítor , Isidro Joana , Cunha Mário , Cochicho Daniela , Martins Luís , Banha Luís , Figueiredo Margarida , Rebelo Leonor , Trindade Maria Céu , Duarte Sílvia , Vieira Luís , Alves Maria João , Costa Inês , Guiomar Raquel , Santos Madalena , Cortê-Real Rita , Dias André , Póvoas Diana , Cabo João , Figueiredo Carlos , Manata Maria José , Maltez Fernando , Gomes da Silva Maria , Gomes João Paulo
Published: July 2021

Tracking the within-patient evolution of SARS-CoV-2 is key to understanding how this pandemic virus shapes its genome toward immune evasion and survival. In the present study, by monitoring a long-term COVID-19 immunocompromised patient, we observed the concurrent emergence of mutations potentially associated with immune evasion and/or enhanced transmission, mostly targeting the SARS-CoV-2 key host-interacting protein and antigen.
Yersinia pseudotuberculosisYopJ Limits Macrophage Response by Downregulating COX-2-Mediated Biosynthesis of PGE2 in a MAPK/ERK-Dependent Manner
Authors: Sheppe Austin E. F. , Santelices John , Czyz Daniel M. , Edelmann Mariola J.
Published: July 2021

PGE2 is a critical immunomodulatory lipid, but its role in bacterial infection and pathogen clearance is poorly understood. We previously demonstrated that PGE2 leads to macrophage polarization toward the M1 phenotype and stimulates inflammasome activation in infected macrophages.
Emergence of Thymidine-Dependent Staphylococcus aureus Small-Colony Variants in Cystic Fibrosis Patients in Southern Brazil
Authors: de Souza Dilair Camargo , Cogo Laura Lucia , Dalla-Costa Libera Maria , Tomaz Ana Paula de Oliveira , Conte Daniele , Riedi Carlos Antonio , Rosario Filho Nelson Augusto , Palmeiro Jussara Kasuko
Published: July 2021

Similar findings have not yet been reported in Brazil, emphasizing the importance of monitoring small-colony variants (SCVs). Altogether, our results highlight the need to improve detection methods and review antimicrobial therapy protocols in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients.
Supplemental Material: Origin of alkali olivine basalts and hawaiites in the western Mexican arc: Evidence of rapid phenocryst growth and magma mixing during ascent along fractures
Authors: Mesa J. , Lange R.A.
Published: July 2021

Tables, figures, and text that support results and discussion of this paper. Tables contain all measured and calculated data used in this study. Text includes results for plagioclase analyses and application of plagioclase-liquid hygrometer to hawaiites.
Subcutaneous fat necrosis in an infant with hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy stage 3: an uncommon association
Authors: Mehta Sonalika , Gupta Naveen Parkash , Batra Anil , Sharma Rashmi
Published: July 2021

Subcutaneous fat necrosis (SCFN) is inflammation and necrosis of adipose tissue associated with hypoxia and hypothermia. It leads to various metabolic abnormalities, of which the most dreaded is hypercalcaemia. We report a case of a 7-week-old boy with history of birth asphyxia (hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy stage 3) who presented to us with features suggestive of hypercalcaemia with bilateral nephrocalcinosis. On examination, there were multiple subcutaneous nodules on both arms. Evaluation revealed suppressed parathyroid activity along with low levels of 25(OH)vitamin D3 and elevated 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. Skin biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of SCFN. He was managed with intravenous fluids, single dose of intravenous furosemide and oral prednisolone. Hypercalcaemia responded within 14 days of admission, prednisolone was tapered and stopped in a month. SCFN, in our case, can be attributed to the underlying perinatal asphyxia along with use of therapeutic hypothermia. Through this case, we wish to sensitise practicing neonatologists for the need of screening and early identification of these abnormalities, which if missed can be fatal.
Malakoplakia prostate presenting as urinary retention: a report of two cases and review of the literature
Authors: Subbaraya Swaroop , Sawant Ajit , Pawar Prakash , Patil Sunil
Published: July 2021

Malakoplakia is a rare chronic inflammatory condition, which primarily occurs in genitourinary tract, with prostatic malakoplakia being extremely rare. We present two cases of acute urinary retention, with clinically firm nodular prostate and a raised serum prostate-specific antigen. Transrectal ultrasound-guided prostatic biopsy showed features of malakoplakia. There was a significant reduction of size of prostate on transrectal ultrasonography after 4 weeks of antibiotics. However, one patient had failed trial without catheter and was subjected to transurethral resection of prostate. The biopsy of the prostatic chips also showed features of malakoplakia. Other patient improved symptomatically after antibiotics and was managed conservatively. Both the patients are on regular follow-up and are asymptomatic. Prostatic malakoplakia presenting as urinary retention is very uncommon with around 12 cases in the literature. Recognition of prostatic malakoplakia is important because clinically it can masquerade prostatic malignancy. Treatment with antibiotics is necessary before subjecting the patients for surgery in patients with obstructive symptoms.
‘Bhavishya Shakti: Empowering the Future’: establishing and evaluating a pilot community mobile teaching kitchen as an innovative model, training marginalised women to become nutrition champions and culinary health educators in Kolkata, India
Authors: Buckner Luke , Carter Harrison , Crocombe Dominic , Kargbo Sento , Korre Maria , Bhar Somnath , Bhat Shivani , Chakraborty Debashis , Douglas Pauline , Gupta Mitali , Maitra-Nag Sudeshna , Muhkerjee Sagarika , Saha Aparjita , Rajput-Ray Minha , Tsimpli Ianthi , Ray Sumantra
Published: July 2021

Background

Malnutrition is a global emergency, creating an overlapping burden on individual, public and economic health. The double burden of malnutrition affects approximately 2.3 billion adults worldwide. Following 3 years of capacity building work in Kolkata, with assistance of local volunteers and organisations, we established an empowering nutrition education model in the form of a ‘mobile teaching kitchen (MTK)’ with the aim of creating culinary health educators from lay slum-dwelling women.

Aims

To evaluate the piloting of a novel MTK nutrition education platform and its effects on the participants, alongside data collection feasibility.

Methods

Over 6 months, marginalised (RG Kar and Chetla slums) women underwent nutrition training using the MTK supported by dietitians, doctors and volunteers. Preintervention and postintervention assessments of knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP), as well as anthropometric and clinical nutritional status of both the women and their children were recorded. The education was delivered by a ‘See One, Do One, Teach One’ approach with a final assessment of teaching delivery performed in the final session.

Results

Twelve women were trained in total, six from each slum. Statistically significant improvements were noted in sections of KAP, with improvements in nutrition knowledge (+4.8) and practices (+0.8). In addition, statistically significant positive changes were seen in ‘understanding of healthy nutrition for their children’ (p=0.02), ‘sources of protein rich food’ (p=0.02) and ‘not skipping meals if a child is ill’ (p≤0.001).

Conclusion

The MTK as a public health intervention managed to educate, empower and upskill two groups of lay marginalised women into MTK Champions from the urban slums of Kolkata, India. Improvements in their nutrition KAP demonstrate just some of the effects of this programme. By the provision of healthy meals and nutritional messages, the MTK Champions are key drivers nudging improvements in nutrition and health related awareness with a ripple effect across the communities that they serve. There is potential to upscale and adapt this programme to other settings, or developing into a microenterprise model, that can help future MTK Champions earn a stable income.
Comparison of postal and non-postal post-vasectomy semen sample submission strategies on compliance and failures: an 11-year analysis of the audit database of the Association of Surgeons in Primary Care of the UK
Authors: Atkinson Melanie , James Gareth , Bond Katie , Harcombe Zoe , Labrecque Michel
Published: July 2021

Background

Vasectomy occlusive success is defined by the recommendation of ‘clearance’ to stop other contraception, and is elicited by post-vasectomy semen analysis (PVSA). We evaluated how the choice of either a postal or non-postal PVSA submission strategy was associated with compliance to PVSA and effectiveness of vasectomy.

Methods

We studied vasectomies performed in the UK from 2008 to 2019, reported in annual audits by Association of Surgeons in Primary Care members. We calculated the difference between the two strategies for compliance with PVSA, and early and late vasectomy failure. We determined compliance by adding the numbers of men with early failure and those given clearance. We performed stratified analyses by the number of test guidance for clearance (one-test/two-test) and the study period (2008–2013/2014–2019).

Results

Among 58 900 vasectomised men, 32 708 (56%) and 26 192 (44%) were advised submission by postal and non-postal strategies, respectively. Compliance with postal (79.5%) was significantly greater than with non-postal strategy (59.1%), the difference being 20.4% (95% CI 19.7% to 21.2%). In compliant patients, overall early failure detection was lower with postal (0.73%) than with non-postal (0.94%) strategy (−0.22%, 95% CI −0.41% to −0.04%), but this difference was neither clinically nor statistically significant with one-test guidance in 2014–2019. There was no difference in late failure rates.

Conclusions

Postal strategy significantly increased compliance to PVSA with similar failure detection rates. This resulted in more individuals receiving clearance or early failure because of the greater percentage of postal samples submitted. Postal strategy warrants inclusion in any future guidelines as a reliable and convenient option.
Behavioural interventions for CVD risk reduction for blue-collar workers: a systematic review
Authors: Crane Melissa M , Halloway Shannon , Walts Zoe L , Gavin Kara L , Moss Angela , Westrick Jennifer C , Appelhans Bradley M
Published: July 2021

Objectives

Individuals working in blue-collar occupations experience high rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The purpose of this systematic review is to describe the characteristics and efficacy of behavioural interventions that have targeted CVD risk factors in this high-risk group.

Methods

Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we searched seven databases to find interventions focused on changing the following: blood pressure, cholesterol, diet, physical activity, smoking or weight. Eligible studies tested a behavioural intervention (not exclusively policy, environmental, or pharmaceutical), in individuals working in blue-collar occupations using a randomised study design. Study quality was evaluated using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s study quality assessment tool.

Results

22 studies evaluating 31 interventions were included: 11 were rated as ‘good’ or ‘fair’ quality. Intervention intensity ranged from a single contact via a mailed letter to studies that included individual-level contacts at multiple time points between staff and participants. Studies that included at least some individual contact generally yielded the greatest effects. Interventions had the greatest observed effects on self-report changes in diet, regardless of intervention intensity. Four of the five higher quality studies that explicitly tailored the intervention to the occupational group were successful at reducing at least one risk factor.

Conclusions

Interventions that used individual contact and tailored the intervention to the occupational setting yielded the greatest effects on CVD risk-factor reduction in individuals working in blue-collar occupations. Generally, studies were low quality but showed promising effects for reaching this high-risk population. Future work should incorporate these promising findings in higher quality studies.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019136183.
O’Donnell-Luria-Rodan syndrome: description of a second multinational cohort and refinement of the phenotypic spectrum
Authors: Velmans Clara , O'Donnell-Luria Anne H , Argilli Emanuela , Tran Mau-them Frederic , Vitobello Antonio , Chan Marcus CY , Fung Jasmine Lee-Fong , Rech Megan , Abicht Angela , Aubert Mucca Marion , Carmichael Jason , Chassaing Nicolas , Clark Robin , Coubes Christine , Denommé-Pichon Anne-Sophie , de Dios John Karl , England Eleina , Funalot Benoit , Gerard Marion , Joseph Maries , Kennedy Colleen , Kumps Camille , Willems Marjolaine , van de Laar Ingrid M B.H , Aarts-Tesselaar Coranne , van Slegtenhorst Marjon , Lehalle Daphné , Leppig Kathleen , Lessmeier Lennart , Pais Lynn S , Paterson Heather , Ramanathan Subhadra , Rodan Lance H , Superti-Furga Andrea , Chung Brian H.Y. , Sherr Elliott , Netzer Christian , Schaaf Christian P , Erger Florian
Published: July 2021

Background

O’Donnell-Luria-Rodan syndrome (ODLURO) is an autosomal-dominant neurodevelopmental disorder caused by pathogenic, mostly truncating variants in KMT2E. It was first described by O’Donnell-Luria et al in 2019 in a cohort of 38 patients. Clinical features encompass macrocephaly, mild intellectual disability (ID), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) susceptibility and seizure susceptibility.

Methods

Affected individuals were ascertained at paediatric and genetic centres in various countries by diagnostic chromosome microarray or exome/genome sequencing. Patients were collected into a case cohort and were systematically phenotyped where possible.

Results

We report 18 additional patients from 17 families with genetically confirmed ODLURO. We identified 15 different heterozygous likely pathogenic or pathogenic sequence variants (14 novel) and two partial microdeletions of KMT2E. We confirm and refine the phenotypic spectrum of the KMT2E-related neurodevelopmental disorder, especially concerning cognitive development, with rather mild ID and macrocephaly with subtle facial features in most patients. We observe a high prevalence of ASD in our cohort (41%), while seizures are present in only two patients. We extend the phenotypic spectrum by sleep disturbances.

Conclusion

Our study, bringing the total of known patients with ODLURO to more than 60 within 2 years of the first publication, suggests an unexpectedly high relative frequency of this syndrome worldwide. It seems likely that ODLURO, although just recently described, is among the more common single-gene aetiologies of neurodevelopmental delay and ASD. We present the second systematic case series of patients with ODLURO, further refining the mutational and phenotypic spectrum of this not-so-rare syndrome.
Surgical outcomes between temporal, extratemporal epilepsies and hypothalamic hamartoma: systematic review and meta-analysis of MRI-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy for drug-resistant epilepsy
Authors: Barot Niravkumar , Batra Kavita , Zhang Jerry , Klem Mary Lou , Castellano James , Gonzalez-Martinez Jorge , Bagic Anto
Published: July 2021

Background

Approximately 1/3 of patients with epilepsy have drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) and require surgical interventions. This meta-analysis aimed to review the effectiveness of MRI-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (MRgLITT) in DRE.

Methods

The Population, Intervention, Comparator and Outcome approach and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses were followed. PubMed, MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were systematically searched for English language publications from 2012 to Nov 2020. Data on the prevalence outcome using the Engel Epilepsy Surgery Outcome Scale (Class I–IV), and postoperative complications were analysed with 95% CIs.

Results

Twenty-eight studies that included a total of 559 patients with DRE were identified. The overall prevalence of Engel class I outcome was 56% (95% CI 0.52% to 0.60%). Hypothalamic hamartomas (HH) patients had the highest seizure freedom rate of 67% (95% CI 0.57% to 0.76%) and outcome was overall comparable between mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (mTLE) (56%, 95% CI 0.50% to 0.61%) and extratemporal epilepsy (50% 95% CI 0.40% to 0.59%). The mTLE cases with mesial temporal sclerosis had better outcome vs non-lesional cases of mTLE. The prevalence of postoperative adverse events was 19% (95% CI 0.14% to 0.25%) and the most common adverse event was visual field deficits. The reoperation rate was 9% (95% CI 0.05% to 0.14%), which included repeat ablation and open resection.

Conclusion

MRgLITT is an effective and safe intervention for DRE with different disease aetiologies. The seizure freedom outcome is overall comparable in between extratemporal and temporal lobe epilepsy; and highest with HH.

Trail registration number

The study protocol was registered with the National Institute for Health Research (CRD42019126365), which serves as a prospective register of systematic reviews. It is an international database of prospectively registered systematic reviews with a focus on health-related outcomes. Details about the protocol can be found at https://wwwcrdyorkacuk/PROSPERO/.
Newborn screening for spinal muscular atrophy with disease-modifying therapies: a cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Shih Sophy TF , Farrar Michelle Anne , Wiley Veronica , Chambers Georgina
Published: July 2021

Objective

To assess cost-effectiveness of newborn screening (NBS) for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and early treatment with nusinersen or onasemnogene abeparvovec (gene therapy), compared with nusinersen without SMA screening.

Methods

Informed by an Australian state-wide SMA NBS programme, a decision analytical model nested with Markov models was constructed to evaluate costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) from a societal perspective with sensitivity analyses.

Results

By treating one presymptomatic SMA infant with nusinersen or gene therapy, an additional 9.93 QALYs were gained over 60 years compared with late treatment in clinically diagnosed SMA. The societal cost was $9.8 million for early nusinersen treatment, $4.4 million for early gene therapy and $4.8 million for late nusinersen treatment. Compared with late nusinersen treatment, early gene therapy would be dominant, gaining 9.93 QALYs while saving $360 000; whereas early nusinersen treatment would result in a discounted incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $507 000/QALY.

At a population level, compared with no screening and late treatment with nusinersen, NBS and early gene therapy resulted in 0.00085 QALY gained over 60 years and saving $24 per infant screened (85 QALYs gained and $2.4 million saving per 100 000 infants screened). More than three quarters of simulated ICERs by probability sensitivity analyses showed NBS and gene therapy would be dominant or less than $50 000/QALY, compared with no screening and late nusinersen treatment.

Conclusion

NBS coupled with gene therapy improves the quality and length of life for infants with SMA and would be considered value-for-money from an Australian clinical and policy context.
Values for victims and vectors of disease
Authors: Kugelberg Elsa
Published: July 2021

John and Curran have convincingly shown that Scanlonian contractualism is a valuable resource for evaluating pandemic response policies, and that we should reject cost–benefit analysis in favour of a contractualist framework. However, they fail to consider the part of contractualism that Scanlon constructed precisely to deal with the question of when the state can restrict individuals from making choices that are harmful to themselves and others: the value of choice view (VoC). In doing so, they leave it open for opponents of lockdowns to misuse contractualism to justify mistaken policies. This is because the most powerful contractualist objections to locking down are likely to be based on the VoC.

When we apply the value of choice view (VoC), we see that a lockdown policy’s justifiability depends on the extent to which particular values of choice are found to be threatened by the policy in question, and what safeguards policy-makers have put in place to increase the value of choice and protect people from the harmful consequences of lockdown. Without the VoC, it is harder to explain why lockdowns, to be non-rejectable, must have certain features. With the VoC, the case for contractualism over cost benefit analysis (CBA) can be made even stronger.
Characterization of the angular response of a multi-directional spectroradiometer for measuring spectral radiance
Authors: Tobar Foster Mario , Weide Eduardo Luiz , Niedzwiedz Angelika , Duffert Jens , Seckmeyer Gunther
Published: July 2021

Despite its importance, few instruments are able to measure the angular distribution of the solar spectrum with a high spectral and temporal resolution. We present a novel characterization method of the multi-directional entrance optics of the AMUDIS (Advanced MUltiDIrectional Spectroradiometer) which is a multidirectional spectroradiometer based on three CCD image sensors combined with imaging spectrographs. The new type of entrance optics consists of 435 different optical fibres uniformly distributed along 145 directions covering the upper hemisphere and allowing simultaneous measurements of the radiance in the ultraviolet, visible and near infrared part of the spectrum, ranging from 280 nm to 1700 nm. The experimental setup for characterizing the multidirectional entrance optics is based on a 100 W halogen lamp and a robotic arm, which moves the lamp tangentially over the surface of a virtual sphere of 102.5 cm radius around the entrance optics. The characterization revealed misalignments in the position of the optical fibres of up to 3∘ (which can affect radiance measurements, specially under broken clouds conditions). The novel characterization method improved 3-fold the alignment up to ±0.1∘
Development of the CEPC collider prototype magnets
Authors: Yang Mei , Chen Fusan , Sun Xianjing , Zhang Zhuo , Kang Wen , Zhu Yingshun
Published: July 2021

A Circular Electron Positron Collider (CEPC) with a circumference of about 100 km and a beam energy up to 120 GeV is proposed to be constructed in China. Over 80% of the collider ring is covered by conventional magnets. Most dipole and quadrupole magnets are twin aperture magnets with an inter-beam separation of 350 mm. Two 1-meter-long twin aperture prototype magnets are designed and manufactured. One is a combined dipole–sextupole magnet with aluminum bus bar coils, and the other one is a twin aperture quadrupole magnet with a DT4 compensation sheet to reduce the crosstalk effect between the two apertures. The design, fabrication and magnetic measurement of two prototype magnets are described in this paper.
Depositions of In2xGa2−2xO3-based films and their application in the fabrication of a thin-film transistor
Authors: Huang Cheng-Yi , Houng Mau-Phon , Wei Sufen , Yang Cheng-Fu
Published: July 2021

Compositions of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] were mixed and sintered at 1250[Formula: see text]C to fabricate [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] targets, and RF sputtering method was used to deposit [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] films by introducing pure Argon during the deposition process. After [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] films were deposited, we used the X-ray diffraction pattern to analyze their crystalline properties, the ultraviolet–visible-infrared spectrophotometry to measure their transmittance spectra in the wavelength range of 200–800 nm, an X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to find their composition variation, and a Hall equipment to measure their electrical properties, including the carrier concentration, the mobility, and the resistivity. We found that the absorption edges of [Formula: see text] films were shifted to higher wavelength as [Formula: see text] value increased from 0.2 to 0.4. We also found that the Hall parameters of [Formula: see text] film could not be measured because of its high resistivity. Therefore, [Formula: see text] film was used to fabricate thin-film transistor (TFT), and the electrical properties of the fabricated TFT were also well investigated.
Perception of Identity, Perception of Relationship and Strategic Interaction — An Analysis on China–Indian Border Disputes from the Perspective of Game Theories
Authors: Ye Hailin
Published: July 2021

Based on the continuous observation of the ongoing China–India border conflict in recent years, the author intends to answer why China has not yielded prospective policy returns from the Indian side, even if it has been pursuing a cooperative strategy toward India after the Doklam standoff. Inspired by several doctrines of game theory under the dynamic game scenario and the application of relevant gaming tactics, this essay argues that after the Doklam standoff, China has been consistently pursuing an India policy that is risk-averse in nature, represented by its fundamental goal of persevering stability in the secondary direction of China–India border area. As a supporter of this argumentation, a diachronic investigation in terms of the evolution of China–India Relations between 2017 and 2020 was conducted, in which both countries were presumed as state actors involving in repeated gaming process with observable actions and asymmetric information sources. The investigation covers the respective actions adopted by both China and India since the Doklam standoff in 2017, along with the strategic interactions between the two sides from 2018 to 2019, till the most recent standoff in the Galwan Valley and the standoff along the Panggong Tso in 2020. The major finding of this essay is that there exists a causal-effect relationship between the expected payment structures of both sides in a gaming process and the outcome of the implementation of a certain cooperative strategy. Besides, as opponents in a gaming process, either side’s self-cognition and its evaluation on the bilateral relations will pose critical impact on its policy-making. Therefore, in the specific case of China–India border conflict, it is highly advised that China should make practical efforts to avert cognition risks of all kinds while managing its relation with India; otherwise, negative consequences may occur due to the mismatch of its strategic goals and its policy devices.
Verification column
Authors: Lazić Ranko
Published: July 2021

Given the extensive applications of logics with concrete domains in verification and related areas, the shortage of an accessible survey on the topic is quite surprising. This article does much more than fill the gap, providing also useful and inspiring pointers for future work.
Cycling Characteristics of Tubular Liquid Antimony Anode Direct Carbon Fuel Cells Prepared by Atmospheric Plasma Spray
Authors: Jiang Yidong , Shi Yixiang , Cai Ningsheng
Published: July 2021

Liquid antimony anode direct carbon fuel cell (LAA-DCFC) is a promising technology for efficient conversion of solid carbon fuels. However, the operating process and the regeneration method of the fuel cells with LAAs are different from those with solid anodes and still need to be researched. In the present research, the tubular LAA-DCFC units were fabricated based on stainless steel support by atmospheric plasma spray (APS) technology. The LAA-DCFCs were cycled by furnace control method and “hot plug” method to simulate the normal start-stop and the anode regeneration processes, respectively. No degradation was observed after five temperature cycles of furnace control test, which showed that the phase change process of the LAA has no influence on the sprayed electrolyte and cathode. During the “hot plug” test, the tubular cell was measured in Ar atmosphere and was removed from and put back into the LAA at a speed of 20 mm min-1 and 50℃ min-1. The cell performance recovered once the cell was put back and a degradation of 0.1% cycle-1 was observed. Considering the low frequency of anode regeneration, the degradation rate is relatively acceptable. The environmental air leakage and the floating ash retarded the recovery rate, but have no influence on the degradation degree. The cycling characteristics in the present research proved the long-term operating feasibility of DCFC with LAA.
PrBaCo2O5+δ-Sm0.5Sr0.5CoO3 Composite Oxide as Active Cathode for Intermediate-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Ishihara Tatsumi , Islamiyah Syuaibatul , Kluczny Maksymilian , Song Jun Tae , Takagaki Atsushi
Published: July 2021

From decreasing the cost and the reliability of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), increase in power density is strongly required. In order to achieve these requirements, decrease in operating temperature is the most effective way. However, reduced operating temperature leads to significant decrease in electrode activity, particularly cathode. Therefore, the development of novel and highly active cathode is strongly required for intermediate temperature (873-1073 K). In this study, we studied cathodic performance of double perovskite oxide of PrBaCo2O5 as active cathode of SOFC. Because of delamination of PrBaCo2O5 cathode is easily occurred because of larger thermal expansion coefficient. Mixing effects of PrBaCo2O5 with another perovskite oxide were investigated using a LaGaO3-based electrolyte. The electrochemical performance of the cell was measured using electrolyte-supported single cell at 873, 973 and 1073 K and humidified H2 was used as fuel and O2 as oxidant.

Among the oxides mixed with PrBaCo2O5 (PBCO), it was found that mixing Sm0.5Sr0.5CoO3 (SSC)shows the smallest cathodic overpotential and the most suitable for increase in cathodic activity. Therefore, composite oxide of PBCO with SSC is active as cathode for SOFC. However, the cells with composite cathodes show lower performance at 1073 K comparing with PBCO cathode and this could be explained by small cathodic internal resistance at 873 K. On the other hand, the cell with PBCO-SSC (1:1) shows small overpotential at 873 K and much larger power density. Therefore, it was found that mixing PBCO with SSC shows the positive effects on the oxygen dissociation on the cathode at decreased temperature and suitable for low temperature operation SOFC. The optimization of SSC content on the cathodic activity of PBCO-SSC mixed oxide was further studied. The cathodic overpotential at 50 mA/cm2 was decreased with increasing amount of SSC and the smallest overpotential was achieved at 1:1 composition at all temperature studied. Positive effects of mixing PBCO and SSC could be assigned to the increased three phase boundary and increased activity to oxygen dissociation. Since cathodic overpotential was decreased significantly by mixing PBCO-SSC, power density of the cell using PBCO-SSC cathode at 1:1 composition shows 232 mW/cm2 at 873 K which is two times larger than that of the cell using PBCO single oxide cathode. Application of PBCO-SSC composite oxide for anode of steam electrolyser was also studied and it was found that PBCO-SSC is also active to oxygen association under applied voltage. Therefore, this study reveals that PBCO-SSC composite is potential air electrode material for intermediate-temperature solid oxide cells.
Simulation of Electrochemical Impedance in a SOFC Cathode with Experimentally Determined Microstructure and its Application in Microstructure Characterization
Authors: Goel Vishwas , Cox Dalton , Barnett Scott A , Thornton Katsuyo
Published: July 2021

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) with mixed ion-electron conducting (MIEC) cathodes are a leading technology for achieving electrochemical energy conversion with high efficiency. To maximize the surface area available for the electrochemical reaction, MIEC cathodes are designed to have complex and porous microstructure. However, such a design results in a high degree of tortuosity for ionic transport, which limits the performance of the SOFCs. Thus, it is crucial to accurately determine the tortuosity value of a cathode and optimize it for the best performance. In this work, we propose the application of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) for determining the effective tortuosity of a MIEC cathode with a complex microstructure. For our work, first, we experimentally obtained the microstructure of the cathode using FIB-SEM. Then, we calculate the EIS spectrum for the cathode by solving the mass conservation equation for oxygen vacancies in the cathode under the influence of an AC load across the cathode’s thickness and surface reaction at the pore/solid interface. Our simulation results provide two key insights; first, the presence of surface reaction at the pore/solid interface causes the amplitude of the vacancy concentration at the interface to be lower than that in the bulk of solid. To account for this difference, we propose a modification to the Adler-Lane-Steele (ALS) model, a macrohomogeneous model that is widely used to fit the impedance behavior of MIEC cathodes. Second, the tortuosity of the cathode, which we calculate using the modified ALS model, is dependent on the AC-load frequency and the material properties (reaction rate constant and bulk diffusivity). Thus, there is a need to revise the prevalent practice of treating the tortuosity as a quantity that depends solely on the microstructure. In our presentation, we will provide a more detailed and quantitative description of the aforementioned insights.
Molten Salt Synthesis of Core-Shell Heterostructure Cathode Materials for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Levitas Benjamin , Gopalan Srikanth
Published: July 2021

Core-shell La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3 (LSCF) – La0.8Sr0.2MnO3 (LSM) heterostructure crystalline materials have been synthesized in a simple, one-step feeding method via a KNO3 molten salt solvent. Two-phase perovskite composites can be synthesized in times as short as 10 minutes, and is demonstrated for the first time in a molten salt. A combination of X-ray diffraction and S/TEM energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy has been utilized to confirm the formation of an LSM shell on LSCF cores in all samples when adjusting dwell time, core size, weight ratio between core and shell precursors, and weight ratio of powder to salt. Specifically, decreasing the LSCF core size increases core-shell yield. Smaller cores introduce a greater density of facets on the crystal surface, and provide more favorable sites for LSM heterogeneous nucleation. Decreasing the weight ratio of shell precursor to core decreases shell thickness, reduces the number of homogeneously nucleated LSM nanoparticles, and increases core-shell yield. Increasing the amount of salt relative to powder decreases supersaturation in the melt and results in less uniform, isolated shell deposition on the cores. Overall, the molten salt synthesis of core-shell perovskite oxides is investigated and demonstrated as an expeditious method to synthesize core-shell composites for energy applications. Considering the parameters of molten salt synthesized LSCF-LSM, optimized core-shell cathodes are then fabricated and used as electrodes in symmetric cells as a preliminary insight into their efficacy for solid oxide fuel cells.