bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of Ball Bearings Fault Size Estimation (FSE), Fault Degradation Estimation (FDE), and Artificial Intelligence Based Approaches during Prognosis
Authors: Hlatshwayo Henry , Madushele Nkosinathi , Ahmed Noor A.
Published: June 2021

Ball bearings are critical components of any industrial rotary equipment. They constitute about 90% of industrial machines’ components – and are thus responsible for the largest proportion of failures – approximately 70-85% of downtime. Defected bearings, while in service, give rise to high vibration amplitudes in rotary equipment, resulting in great reduction in their operational efficiency coupled with high energy consumption. Their premature and inadvertent failure could result in unplanned equipment downtown – thereby causing production loss and increased maintenance cost. Patently, to curtail this, it is vital that their health state is monitored throughout their service life for early faults detection, diagnosis, and prognosis. A knowledge of when a bearing will fail – that is, its remaining useful life (RUL) – can serve as supplement to maintenace decision-making such as determining in advance the time an equipment needs to be taken out-of-service and that can alternatively allow for sufficient lead time for maintenance planning as well. This can correspondingly result in enhancement in rotary systems effectiveness – i.e., availability, reliability, maintainability, and capability. Three popular condition monitoring approaches are signal processing-based approaches namely fault size estimation (FSE) and fault degradation estimation (FDE) as well as artifial intelligent (AI) based approach. It is, however, still a challenge to estimate a bearing fault size and therefore its RUL with high precision based on what has been diagnosed using these approaches. Accordingly, this review holistically explore capabilities and limitations of these approaches from recently published work. The reviewed limations are summarized and serve as new research avenue.
Biocoagulation Efficiency of Corchorus olitorius L. (Jute) Seed Powder in Water Purification
Authors: Bala Sabo , Adie Donatus B.
Published: June 2021

The research is aimed at exploring the potential of using Corchorus olitorius (Jute) seed extracts as natural coagulant for turbidity removal from water. Laboratory scale studies using jar test experiments were performed on medium turbid water to study the influence of various process parameters such as Coagulant dosage, p H, Turbidity, Colour, Hardness, Alkalinity and Bacterial count and the optimum condition for maximum Turbidity removal was identified. Results obtained showed that at 75mg/L optimal removal of turbidity was achieved. Jute seed extract was also able to maintain the p H of treated water at 7.02 with the 75mg/L dosage. However, the reduction in turbidity was below the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended value of 5NTU. The best colour removal was also not up to the WHO’s recommended value of 40TCU. The chemical analysis result showed that Jute seed powder contained 20.90% protein. When jute was used in combination with Moringa oleifera there was significant reduction in turbidity and bacterial count. At 20% jute and 80% Moringa oleifera, best colour removal, turbidity and bacterial count were obtained. Key words-Biocoagulation, Corchorus olitorius, Bacterial count, Jar test
Development of a Model for Evaluating the Disaster Risk Around a Pier due to Local Scouring Based on the Observed Weather Information
Authors: Kadono Takuma , Okazaki Shinichiro , Kajitani Yoshio , Ishizuka Masahide
Published: June 2021

Heavy rainfall disasters frequently damage bridge piers due to scouring, which resulted in collapse of bridges in many areas in Japan. In this study, we developed a model for evaluating the tilting risk of bridge pier due to scouring around the pier, which fluctuates depending on rainfall conditions based on machine learning. For evaluating the risk potential of scouring, we developed a model based on past disaster data due to scouring around the pier using a neural network. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis was conducted using the parameters of explanatory variables of the developed model, river level, and distance from the water edge to the pier. The results showed that the disaster risk around the pier due to scouring increased with the increase in river level and decrease in the distance from the water edge to the pier. Additionally, a river level prediction model was developed using support vector regression with the precipitation time measured 5 – 8 h beforehand and river level measured several hours earlier as an explanatory variable. Furthermore, this study shows that the two developed models can be combined with each other to assess the disaster risk around the jetty due to scouring, which varies with rainfall conditions, based on the observed meteorological information.
Assessment of Nexus between Air Pollution, Covid-19 Fatality, Lockdown Measures and Biodiesel Sustainability
Authors: Ogunkunle Oyetola , Ahmed Noor A.
Published: June 2021

Air pollution, occasioned by the combustion of fossil fuels, is a major precursor to many health challenges. Extensive release of poisonous gaseous pollutants has continued to hamper life expectancy and wellbeing, leading to respiratory diseases, health complications and death of people that particularly live in areas which suffer high concentrations of these pollutants in the air. A proven reference to this is captured as a link to the recent Covid-19 pandemic which has claimed thousands of life since it began spreading around the global community. However, the recent global obligatory lockdown measures enforced to combat the spread of Covid-19 pandemic has shown that there was reduction in pollutant emissions released from industrial and transportation activities. This reduction was found to play a significant role in alleviating the Covid-19 complications in areas which have high levels of air pollution, which is linked to symptoms complications and high level of fatality. As a present and future remedy, the combustion of renewable biodiesel as a replacement for fossil fuels has been recognized to play a significant role in achieving increased contribution of sustainable energy as well as reducing pollutant emissions via its combustion in vehicular engines. In light of this, there is a significant need to develop quality biodiesel that can support global energy security and also ensure environmental sustainability through the reduction of pollutant emissions. More scientific methods are needed to drive biodiesel production technologies toward the development of quality fuels from novel feedstock. This study has, however, been able to highlight the connection between air pollution, Covid-19 fatality, effect of lockdown measures, and biodiesel sustainability in reduction of poisonous gaseous emissions.
Effect of Potassium Hydroxide on Geotechnical Properties of Biomass Fuel Ash Stabilized Lateritic Soil
Authors: Ige Joseph A.
Published: June 2021

This study assessed the effect of potassium hydroxide on geotechnical properties of Biomass fuel ash stabilized lateritic soil. In-situ tests were conducted on the original soil sample for identification and classification purposes. The soil sample was classified as A-2-6. Thereafter, the soil sample was mixed with both Biomass fuel ash and Potassium hydroxide at percentages of 0, 5, 10, 15 and 0, 3, 6, 9 respectively. These were later subjected to various tests such as natural moisture content, specific gravity, sieve analysis, Atterberg limit and compaction .The result showed that the addition of Biomass fuel ash increases the Plastic limit but decreases the plasticity index of the lateritic soil. Similarly, the addition of potassium hydroxide increases the plastic limit while the plasticity index decreases.The addition of Biomass fuel ash increases the optimum moisture content while the maximum dry density decreases. Similarly, the addition of potassium hydroxide increases the optimum moisture content however the maximum dry density decreases. It could be concluded that both Biomass fuel ash and Potassium hydroxide perform satisfactorily as stabilizing agents for stabilizing lateritic soil especially for subgrade and sub base purposes in road construction
Effects of Water Cement Ratio on Strengths Characteristics of Concrete Produced with Recycled Iron and Steel Slag (RISS) Aggregate
Authors: Raheem Akeem Ayinde , Olowu Oluwaleke A. , Hungbo Anthony Akinola , Ibiwoye Emmanuel Olatunde
Published: June 2021

Effects of Water cement ratios on strengths characteristics of concrete produced with Recycled Iron and Steel Slag (RISS) aggregates was studied to understand the structural integrity of RISS aggregate in concrete and to determine the veracity of RISS aggregate as alternative aggregate to granite in concrete works. Mineralogical composition of the aggregate showed Silicon oxide (quartz) as the common mineral; both aggregates are well graded, strong and durable. Lower water cement ratios improved both the compressive and flexural strengths of RISS and granite concrete.
Synthesis of Tin Oxide Nanoparticles by Pulsed Laser Ablation Method Using Low-Energy Nd: YAG Laser as an Antibacterial Agent
Authors: Qona’ah Ana , Nurhasanah Iis , Khumaeni Ali
Published: June 2021

Tin oxide nanoparticles (SnNPs) are very useful to be employed as an antibacterial agent for both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. In this present work, the synthesis of SnNPs was successfully carried out using the neodymium yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser with a wavelength of 1064 nm, pulse duration of 7 ns, and a laser frequency of 10 Hz. Experimentally, a pulse Nd:YAG laser was directed and focused on a high-purity tin (Sn) metal, immersed in various liquid media including pure water and ethylene glycol. A brownish colloidal colour was produced both in pure water and ethylene glycol liquid media. Characterizations of tin oxide nanoparticles were made using UV-Vis, EDX, FTIR, and TEM. UV-Vis characterization produced absorbance values in pure water and ethylene glycol media of 1.314 a.u. and 1.119 a.u., respectively. TEM images show that the shape of tin oxide nanoparticles produced is spherical. Measurement of nanoparticle size distribution was made using image-J software and the average diameter of nano-size in the ethylene glycol medium is 12.55 nm, which is smaller than the size in the pure water of 19.98 nm. The EDX spectrum analysis results show that there are only Sn and O atoms in colloidal tin oxide nanoparticles (SnNPs). FTIR results show the formation of tin oxide (SnO2) spectrum at the wavenumber of 629.03 cm-1. The produced colloidal SnNPs were then applied as an antibacterial agent of E. coli using the disk diffusion method. Results certified that various concentrations of SnNPs of 10 ppm, 20 ppm, and 30 ppm gain the diameter of inhibition zone (DIZ) in sequence 6.50 mm, 6.75 mm, and 9.50 mm. Based on these experimental results, it shows that the higher the concentration of SnNPs given, the greater the ability to degrade and inhibit bacteria.
Optical Properties of PVA Films Doped with Gold-Graphene Nanocomposite Synthesized by Pulsed Laser Ablation
Authors: Maljaei Roya , Sari Amir Hossein , Dorranian Davoud
Published: June 2021

In this research optical properties of synthesized gold-graphene/polyvinyl alcohol (AuG/PVA) nanocomposite have been investigated. Gold and graphene nano colloidal solution (NCS) synthesized by laser ablation method individually. The resulting NCS were characterized by UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). PVA/Au and PVA/AuG with different concentration of AuG were mixed to form polymeric films via solution casting. Doped polymeric films were analyzed by FTIR and spectrophotometer analyses. The results show that by increasing of AuG concentration, the band gap energy of the PVA films significantly enhanced and other optical parameters such as refraction and extinction coefficients remarkably changed.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Evaluation of Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Potential of Polyalthia longifolia Mediated Copper Nanoparticles
Authors: Mumtaz Sumaira , Nadeem Raziya , Sarfraz Raja Adil , Shahid Muhammad
Published: June 2021

Synthesis of nanoparticles of transition metals by using medicinal plants has been outstreched in recent years because of the characteristic features which are embodied in the end product. This work is proceded with the aim to synthesize and optimize copper nanoparticles (CuNPs-Pl) using aqueous extract of Polyalthia longifolia leaves (PlL) for characterization and evaluation of antimicrobial and antioxidant potential. The synthesis of CuNPs-Pl was confirmed by visual inspection of the dark brown residues in the reaction flask and via absorption band around 580nm by UV/Visible spectroscopy. Synthesis process was optimized through investigation of environmental variables. FTIR analysis was carried out for both PIL and CuNPs-Pl which identified the presence of alkanes, alcoholic, and aldehydic groups in the PlL and their encapsulation on the copper surface. The synthesized CuNPs-Pl were found to be spherical and rod shaped, and polydispersed when investigated through SEM study. Similarly, these nanoparticles had monoclinic structure and crystalline nature when analyzed by XRD. Moreover, these nanoparticles showed metallic form when EDX examination was done. Further, biological activities were performed. The synthesized nanoparticles showed considerable inhibition zones against Escherichia coli (12mm), Bacillus subtilis (11mm), Aspergillus niger (10mm), and Schyzophyllum commune (16mm) which depicted their powerful antibacterial and antifungal activity. Likewise, CuNPs-Pl were effeciently able to quench free radicals as indicated from the 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and nitric oxide (NO) assays by exhibiting 86.32, 50.45, and 48.23% inhibition respectively. Thus, the contemporary work has substantiated that low cost CuNPs-Pl can be highly proficient alternate or substitute of synthetic formulations.
The Synthesis of Pt-CNTs Nanocatalyst Promoted by Visible Light and Catalytic Reduction of 4-Nitrophenol
Authors: Su Bi Quan , feng Yinxia , Xian Liang , Sheng Li , Li Qi Qi
Published: June 2021

Photochemistry to prepare platinum nanoparticles (Pt NPs) is an essential way to control Pt NPs catalyst size distribution. This article reports a series of morphologically controlled syntheses of Pt NPs loaded on modified carbon nanotube (Pt-CNTs). In the synthesis, Polyethylene glycol (PEG) participates in reactions both as a reducing agent and a stabilizer. Visible light irradiation was adopted as a kinetic controlling approach. Typical 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) reduction was adopted to probe the catalytic performances. Characterizations prove that visible light irradiation is an effective way to control the reaction process. In the optimized reaction conditions, i.e., when the ratio PEG:H2O is 1:9, and the pH is 10, the as-prepared Pt NPs are consequently in a very narrow sized distribution with an average diameter of 1.29 nm. The Pt-CNTs present a high reaction rate constant of 0.624 min-1 in the catalytic reduction of 4-NP. All the research results are beneficial for exploring more green chemistry and facile photochemical approaches in the controlled preparation of Pt nanocatalysts.
The Influence of Fe/Al Molar Ratio on Microreactor-Based Catalyst Preparation and Carbon Nanotube Preparation
Authors: Tan Ting Qun , Geng Lei , Lin Yan , He Yan
Published: June 2021

In order to prepare carbon nanotubes with high specific surface area, small diameter, low resistivity, high purity and high catalytic activity, the Fe-Mo/Al2O3 catalyst was prepared based on the microreactor. The influence of different Fe/Al molar ratios on the catalyst and the carbon nanotubes prepared was studied through BET, SEM, TEM and other detection methods. Studies have shown that the pore structure of the catalyst is dominated by slit pores at a lower Fe/Al molar ratio. The catalytic activity is the highest when the Fe/Al molar ratio is 1:1, reaching 74.1%. When the Fe/Al molar ratio is 1:2, the catalyst has a higher specific surface area, the maximum pore size is 8.63 nm, and the four-probe resistivity and ash content of the corresponding carbon nanotubes are the lowest. The higher the proportion of aluminum, the higher the specific surface area of the catalyst and the carbon nanotubes, and the finer the diameter of the carbon nanotubes, which gradually tends to relax. The results show that when the Fe/Al molar ratio is 1:2, although the catalytic activity of the catalyst is not the highest, the carbon nanotubes prepared have the best performance.
Preparation and Properties of a New Type of Coal Dust Suppressant
Authors: Zhang Chuan , Xu Xiang Bin , Zhang Qing Song
Published: June 2021

A new type of water-soluble coal dust suppressant (later called MA) with excellent performance was prepared by modified starch, styrene, methyl methacrylate, Butyl acrylate (as the main monomers) and acrylic acid (as the functional monomer) via mixed the emulsifiers of Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)/octylphenol polyoxyethylene(10)ether (OP-10) and ammonium persulfate served as initiator. The properties of anti-wind erosion, water retention and coal quality impact were investigated. The MA was characterized by viscosity measurements and scanning electron microscopy. The results show that the spraying of MA has no effect on coal quality, and the water loss rate of MA is slightly lower than that of water, which has certain moisture retention. After spraying MA on the surface of coal sample for 120 hours, the coal sample is swept by six-stage wind (wind speed is 10.8-13.8 m/s), and the erosion rate is only 1.8%. The MA and coal samples are closely bonded to form a dense soft film, which has a excellent dust suppression effect.
Research Progress of Preparation and Interfacial Reaction of Ceramic Particles Reinforced Iron-Based Alloy
Authors: Jiao Dong Dong , Bai Ya Ping , Li Jian Ping , Yang Zhong , Zhou Jin , Tian Ke Ke
Published: June 2021

Ceramic particle reinforced iron-based alloys have been widely used in aerospace, land transportation and other aspects, so it has attracted tremendous attention. Aiming at the preparation and interfacial reaction of ceramic particle reinforced iron-based alloys, the preparation methods for interfacial reactions, reinforcement selection and design of ceramic particle reinforced iron-based alloys are introduced in this paper. Combined with the recent studies on ceramic particle reinforced iron-based alloys, this paper focuses on the ceramic particle reinforced iron-based interface and strengthening models/mechanisms, based on existing research, prospects for further ceramic particle reinforced iron-based alloys were studied.
Performance Comparison of Aerospace High-Temperature Resistant Ceramic Fiber Felt
Authors: Guo Jian Ye , Su Li Jun , Wu Chao Jun , Li Wen Jing , Yang Jie Ying , Zhang Li Juan
Published: June 2021

Be aimed at the development and application of aerospace high-temperature resistant ceramic fiber felt, in this paper, as the common ceramic fiber felt in the field of high temperature resistance, quartz fiber felt, high silica fiber felt and mullite fiber felt were compared. The microstructure, thermal insulation, temperature resistance and mechanical properties were analyzed respectively, the performance advantages and disadvantages of three kinds of ceramic fiber felt were given, and its internal causes were studied. The results show that, the temperature resistance of mullite fiber felt is better than that of quartz fiber felt and high silica fiber felt, mainly due to its polycrystalline mullite structure, the thermal insulation performance of mullite fiber felt and high silica fiber felt is better than quartz fiber felt at high temperature, mainly due to the thermal reflection of polycrystalline mullite and the small pore structure of high silica fiber felt, the compressibility of quartz fiber felt is better than high silica fiber felt and mullite fiber felt.
Research Progress of Effect of Heat Treatment on Microstructure, Phase Transformation Behaviors and Memory Properties in Ti-Ni Based Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Ye Jun Jie , He Zhi Rong , Zhang Kun Gang , Du Yu Qing
Published: June 2021

Ti-Ni based shape memory alloys (SMAs) are of excellent shape memory effect, superelasticity and damping property. These properties of the alloys can be fully displayed only after proper heat treatment. In this paper, the research progresses of the effect of the heat treatment on the microstructure, phase composition, phase transformation behaviors and shape memory properties in Ti-Ni based SMAs are reviewed, the correlation influence mechanism is summarized, and the future research directions in this field are pointed out. It is expected to provide reference for the development of Ti-Ni based SMAs and their heat treatment technologies.
Composition and Analysis of Domestic Patented Sleeve Grouting Material
Authors: Liu Geng Le , Zhao Peng , Qin Lei , Ren Hong Wei
Published: June 2021

In recent years, with the urgent need of the country to vigorously promote the transformation and upgrading of the construction industry and the modernization of the construction industry, it has been proposed to vigorously develop prefabricated buildings and increase the proportion of prefabricated buildings in new buildings. The prefabricated concrete building is a concrete structure with prefabricated components in the factory and processing and connection on the construction site. Because of its fast construction speed and good overall benefits, it is widely promoted. For prefabricated buildings, the key technology is the connection of structural nodes, and most of the component connections use concrete sleeve connections. The quality of the sleeve grouting material is very important. The basic formula of the grouting material leads to different and different mechanical properties. Conditions apply. This article starts with different sleeve grouting patents, summarizes different functions and characteristics, and provides a reference for the next development of sleeve grouting.
Development on the Corrosion of Steel Fiber and Prevention in the Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC)
Authors: Guo Zhen Wen , Duan Xin Zhi , Wang Qiang , Wang Si Jia , Guo Xiao Lu
Published: June 2021

Chloride ions, water, and oxygen could cause the corrosion of steel fiber in the aggressive environment. The corrosion of steel fiber in UHPC is a long-term process and the rate is very slow. As one of the important components of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC), the corrosion of steel fiber is the result of multiple factors. The characteristics of steel fiber corrosion in UHPC, the factors influencing the corrosion of steel fiber in UHPC (including nanomaterials, curing condition and crack width), and effects of steel fiber corrosion on the UHPC performance (including mechanical properties, matrix rehydration and corrosion of steel bar), are emphatically elaborated. And the control methods of steel fiber corrosion in UHPC are briefly introduced, i.e. hybrid fibers and stainless steel fibers.
Investigation on Electrical Resistance of Chloride Penetration of Alkali Activated Slag Concrete
Authors: Wang Teng , Wan Xiao Mei , Yu Qi , Sun Zhong Tao , Han Xiao
Published: June 2021

Alternating-current method for measuring chloride penetration resistance of concrete, test method for coulomb electric flux and rapid chloride migration coefficient (RCM) were applied to evaluate the resistance of chloride penetration in alkali-activated slag concrete in this paper. At the same time, the applicability of the above three electrical parameters test methods to the alkali slag concrete was discussed. The results show that NaOH activated slag concrete behaves higher resistance to chloride penetration than water glass activated slag concrete. Blend of fly ash increases the porosity of alkali-activated slag concrete and weakens the resistance of chloride penetration. Correlation coefficient between chloride migration coefficient and AC electrical resistivity is 0.99. There are good correlations among the evaluation results of three electrical parameters test methods, and all of them behave sound applicability to alkali-activated slag concrete.
Research Progress in Silver Zinc Oxide Electrical Contact Material
Authors: Zhao Shang Qiang , Xie Ming , Fang Ji Heng , Chen Yong Tai , Wang Sai Bei
Published: June 2021

Since the performance of silver metal oxide (Ag/MeO) electrical contact materials directly affects the reliability and service life of switching apparatus, the related research on high-performance Ag/MeO electrical contact materials has not stopped. And with the rapid development of switching apparatus, higher and higher requirements are put forward for the performance of Ag/MeO electrical contact materials. Thanks to low and stable contact resistance, short arc burning time, good resistance to high current impulse (3000-5000 A) and good anti-arc erosion, silver zinc oxide (Ag/ZnO) more than just serves as an indispensable environmentally friendly alternative to silver cadmium oxide (Ag/CdO) electrical contact material, and has become one of the important research hotspots of Ag/MeO in recent years. Nevertheless, Ag/ZnO is suffering the increasingly serious challenges, especially the poor processability and electrical properties due to the easy segregation of zinc oxide (ZnO) during the process of preparation, which urge scholars at home and abroad to seek favorable methods to optimize the Ag/ZnO. As yet, impressive strides have been made in optimization the preparation process, nano-technology and additive modification of materials, and research on the failure mechanism of materials. Aiming to provide reference for optimizing Ag/ZnO electrical contact material, this review retrospects the research progress in Ag/ZnO electrical contact materials in recent years, and expounds the preparation methods, processing technology, modification research and failure mechanism of Ag/ZnO, and points out the future development directions of Ag/ZnO.
Factors Predicting Consumers’ Continuance Intention to Use Mobile Wallets: Evidence from Kerala, India
Authors: Xavier P. Smitha , Zakkariya K. A.
Published: June 2021

Mobile wallets are novel and is commanding attention globally as an alternative means of payment. As far as any technology is concerned, continued usage of the system is far more important than its initial adoption, on which prior literature has concentrated upon. The purpose of this study is to examine the factors that predict a mobile wallet user’s usage continuance intention. The study, based on a valence framework, analyses the effect of the various dimensions of valence, namely the effect of positive valence (hedonic value, utilitarian value, monetary value and social value) and negative valence (perceived risk) on the usage continuance intention of mobile wallet users in Kerala. Data was collected from 134 participants through a self-administered online questionnaire, and variance based PLS-SEM was used for analysis. The results of the study indicate that both positive and negative valence significantly predicted the usage continuance intention.
Application of Marketing Techniques in Library Services and Challenges Faced by University Librarians in Sri Lanka
Authors: Nishath S. Shabnam , Somaratna Sajeewanie D.
Published: June 2021

Libraries should explore the marketing strategies to be used to promote their services among users, to entice new users and retain existing users. The objectives of this study were to find out the marketing techniques used in Sri Lankan university libraries and identify the challenges that university librarians face when marketing their services. The study involved 130 academic staff members of the libraries in 15 state universities established under the purview of the University Grants Commission in Sri Lanka. The total population was considered as the sample and the data were collected through self-administered questionnaire. The data were analyzed using the SPSS software package considering the mean and standard deviation. There were 105 valid questionnaires among returns, and the response rate was 80.8%. As per the results, library websites, user orientation seminars, notice boards, and e-mail notifications were most frequently used to promote library services. Mobile applications, blogs and podcasts were rarely used to promote library services in Sri Lankan universities. The mean ratings of perceived challenges in the marketing of library services by university librarians in Sri Lanka were considered. Lack of networking among librarians (3.54) was identified as a significant challenge faced by Sri Lankan university librarians when marketing their services. Other significant challenges were unawareness of library user requirements, insufficient funds for marketing, increased cost of marketing and lack of skills in marketing library services. This concludes that Sri Lankan university librarians market their library services using an array of techniques and come across various challenges while adopting marketing techniques to their services. To overcome these challenges libraries should consider appointing a marketing librarian for each university library and establish a collaboration between them, develop a unique marketing strategy for each library, and allocation of funds for marketing library services.
Use of Invasive Water Hyacinth for Composting of Ordinary Leaf Litter
Authors: Amarasinghe S. R.
Published: June 2021

Many lakes, canals and wetlands in Sri Lanka are infested by water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms), which is a non-indigenous invasive aquatic weed species. It causes a complete blockage of water resources that makes irrigation and fishing very difficult. Among various eradication methods of water hyacinth, composting has been extensively used in many countries. However, the degree of toxicity and the quality of compost are important for field applications. Therefore, the present study was aimed at transforming ordinary leaf litter into quality compost using water hyacinth and various other amendments, and comparing the compost quality in terms of heavy metals, pH, electrical conductivity (EC) and C: N ratio. The weeds were collected from the Moragoda canal, Galle, Sri Lanka. The compost trials were prepared using water hyacinth and different other raw materials and one compost trial was prepared using water hyacinth alone. The mixtures were decomposed aerobically for 12 weeks by windrow method and prepared composts were analysed for pH, EC, organic C %, total N %, Cu, Cd, Pb, Zn, Ni, and As. Finally, the obtained results were compared with the indices given for compost by the Sri Lankan standards. Considering the C: N ratio, pH, EC which obtained 17.84, 7.5, 1.95 dSm-1, respectively and heavy metal content less than permissible limit, it revealed that compost mixture with a composition of water hyacinth and dry leaf litter was the most suitable mixture to recommend for field application.
Diagnostic accuracy of the Novel 29 MHz micro-ultrasound “ExactVuTM” for the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer: A prospective single institutional study. A step forward in the diagnosis of prostate cancer
Authors: Chessa Francesco , Schiavina Riccardo , Ercolino Amelio , Gaudiano Caterina , Giusti Davide , Bianchi Lorenzo , Pultrone Cristian , Marcelli Emanuela , Distefano Concetta , Lodigiani Luca , Brunocilla Eugenio
Published: June 2021

Introduction and Objective: ExactVuTM is a real-time micro-ultrasound system which provides, according to the Prostate Risk Identification Using Micro-Ultrasound protocol (PRI-MUS), a 300% higher resolution compared to conventional transrectal ultrasound. To evaluate the performance of ExactVuTM in the detection of Clinically significant Prostate Cancer (CsPCa). Materials and methods: Patients with Prostate Cancer diagnosed at fusion biopsy were imaged with ExactVuTM. CsPCa was defined as any Gleason Score ≥ 3+4. ExactVuTM examination was considered as positive when PRI-MUS score was ≥ 3. PRI-MUS scoring system was considered as correct when the fusion biopsy was positive for CsPCa. A transrectal fusion biopsy- proven CsPCa was considered as a gold standard. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and area under the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) were calculated. Results: 57 patients out of 68 (84%) had a csPCa. PRI-MUS score was correctly assessed in 68% of cases. Regarding the detection of CsPCa, ExactVuTM ’s sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV was 68%, 73%, 93%, and 31%, respectively and the AUC was 0.7 (95% CI 0.5-0-8). For detecting CsPCa in the transition/ anterior zone the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV was 45%, 66%, 83% and 25% respectively ant the AUC was 0.5 (95% CI 0.2-0.9). Accounting only the CsPCa located in the peripheral zone, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV raised up to 74%, 75%, 94%, 33%, respectively with AUC 0.75 (95% CI 0.5-0-9). Conclusions: ExactVuTM provides high resolution of the prostatic peripheral zone and could represent a step forward in the detection of CsPCa as a triage tool. Further studies are needed to confirm these promising results.
Minimal invasive percutaneous nephrolithotomy (Mini-PCNL) in children: Ultrasound versus fluoroscopic guidance
Authors: Eslahi Ali , Ahmed Faisal , Hosseini Mohammad Mehdi , Rezaeimehr Mohammad Reza , Fathi Nazanin , Nikbakht Hossein-Ali , Askarpour Mohammad Reza , Hosseini Seyed Hossein , Al-Naggar Khalil
Published: June 2021

Background: Miniaturization of endoscopic instruments in percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) allowed less invasive procedures with low complication rates, especially in children. This study was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ultrasonography-guided (USG) versus fluoroscopy-guided (FG) mini-PCNL in children.Materials and methods: This is a retrospective comparative study conducted from June 2015 to June 2020. The sample included 70 children (35 pateints underwent USG mini-PCNL and 35 pateints underwent FG mini-PCNL). They were compared mainly by the patients’ demographic characteristics, procedural information, and post-treatment outcomes. In the USG mini-PCNL group, puncturing was performed using a 3.5 MHz US probe, whereas fluoroscopy was utilized in the FG mini- PCNL group. Results: Both groups were comparable in terms of gender, previous history of failed ESWL, and hydronephrosis grade. The mean stone burden was 15.94 ± 3.69 mm and 19.20 ± 7.41 mm in USG and FG groups, respectively (p = 0.024). The stonefree rate (SFR) was 97.1% in the USG group and 94.3% in the FG group, which was not statistically significant (p = 0.16). Mean operative time in the USG group and FG group was 69.00 ± 13.33 minutes and 63.48 ± 16.90 minutes, respectively. Four (11.4%) patients in the FG group required blood transfusions to restore the hemodynamic state (p = 0.039). Fever was detected in 4 (11.4%) patients in the USG group and 15 (31.4%) patients in the FG group (p = 0.041). Conclusions: In children, mini PCNL under USG is safe and as effective as fluoroscopy.
Pulsed fluoroscopy in retrograde urethrograms
Authors: Elmansy Hazem , Shabana Waleed , Rozenberg Radu , Ahmad Abdulrahman , Kotb Ahmed , Al Aref Amer , Shahrour Walid
Published: June 2021

Objectives: Retrograde urethrogram (RUG) is one of the corner stones for the reconstructive urologist. With hundreds of RUGs being performed yearly in busy reconstructive center, the concern for radiation exposure to the patient and the medical personnel becomes important. We propose the use of pulsed fluoroscopy to decrease the radiation exposure for patient and medical personnel. Methods: Patients presenting to our center with urethral strictures between March 2016 and March 2019 were included in our study. The fluoroscopy machine was set for pulsed fluoroscopy at a setting of 4 pulses per second. Patient information including demographics, pre-operative diagnosis, Intra-op findings, and fluoroscopy time were recorded. RUG was performed to localize the stricture pre-operatively and post-operatively. Results: A total of 185 RUG were performed between March 2016 and March 2019. The median age was 63 (14-81). The remaining 154 RUG had 77 performed pre-operatively and 77 performed post-operatively. Pathology was identified in 77 patients. Intra-operative confirmation of pre-operative finding was found in 76 patients (98.7%). Median fluoroscopy time was found to be 2.43 seconds (0.5 sec- 6.5 sec). Conclusions: Pulsed fluoroscopy reduces the radiation exposure in RUG without a reduction in the diagnostic capacity of the test. Reduction of fluoroscopy can have beneficial cumulative effect as per the ALARA principle for patients and medical personnel. Further studies with randomized control trials could be of great benefit.
Comparison between cardiac magnetic resonance and speckle-tracking echocardiography in prediction of cardiac resynchronization therapy outcomes
Authors: Khedrawy Mohamd Bahaa Elden Mohamed , Salam Mohamed Salah El-Din Abdel , Ahmed Mohamed Mahmud , Elmozy Wesam Emam Ali
Published: June 2021

Background

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) improves quality of life, exercise tolerance, and myocardial function in a considerable number of patients with heart failure (HF) and left bundle branch block. In addition, CRT decreases HF hospitalizations and overall mortality. However, structural, morbidity, and mortality improvements after CRT rate between 40 and 60%.

Objective

To compare the role of the cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) and speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) in expectation of response to CRT.

Patients and methods

We investigated the predictors of CRT response using CMR measurement of left ventricular (LV) volumes and function, CMR-derived mechanical dyssynchrony, scar percentage, and its relation to the site of LV lead implantation, in comparison with STE in prediction of CRT outcomes.

Results

A total of 35 patients with HF planned for CRT were included. Echocardiography was used to define the response to CRT (15% reduction in LV end-systolic volume 6 months after implantation). At follow-up, 18 (51.43%) patients were categorized as responders. Echocardiographic speckle-tracking radial strain analysis showed a significant LV dyssynchrony in responders versus nonresponders (radial mid-anteroseptal and posterior wall delays were 245.1 ms and 80.7 ms, respectively) (P<0.0001). LV radial dyssynchrony, as measured by CMR-feature tracking, was significantly higher in responders versus nonresponders (mean of SDt-16 of radial strain were 232.7 ms vs. 180.4 ms, P<0.0001), and median of radial mid-anteroseptal-to-inferolateral wall delay was 375 vs. 125.4 ms, P<0.0001). Late contrast-enhanced CMR was performed for scar assessment. It was noticed that scar percentage of LV mass was much higher in nonresponders (median 6.2 vs. 0%) (P=0.005).

Conclusion

CMR imaging offers the unique opportunity to predict the CRT outcomes by measurement of LV volumes, LV mechanical dyssynchrony (that well correlated with that of STE), and the total scar percentage and distribution in a single examination.
Screening of Helicobacter pylori serum immunoglobulins in hyperemesis gravidarum
Authors: Hamed Elsaed Mohamed Elsaed , Ahmed Abdel Azeem M. , Abdel Motaal Ahmed O. , Ali Aseem Ahmed A.
Published: June 2021

Background

Prevalence of hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) varies from 0.3 to 1.5% of all live births. The exact cause is not well known and is probably multifactorial. It is the most common cause of hospitalization in the first half of pregnancy and second only to preterm labor for pregnancy overall. The etiology of emesis gravidarum remains unknown, but a number of possible causes have been studied such as endocrinal, immunological, psychological, metabolic, genetic, and even infectious such as Helicobacter pylori infection.

Objective

To screen for H. pylori serum immunoglobulins in HG in pregnancy.

Patients and methods

This was a prospective observational cross-sectional study. The study was conducted at Abo Qir General Hospital and Al-Hussein University Hospital. The study was carried on 50 pregnant women who have vomiting sufficiently severe to produce weight loss, dehydration, acidosis from starvation, alkalosis from loss of HCL in vomitus, and hypokalemia (HG).

Results

Overall, 44% of cases were positive and 56% were negative regarding H. pylori immunoglobulin M.

Conclusion

We were unable to find an association between H. pylori and HG. We find that only 44% of cases are positive and 56% are negative regarding H. pylori immunoglobulin M, and 92% of cases had +3 ketones, and only 8% have ketones in urine from +1 to +2.
Outcome of percutaneous mesh fixation in transabdominal preperitoneal groin hernia repair
Authors: Hegab Ahmed M.
Published: June 2021

Background

One of the commonly performed surgical procedures in general surgical practice is groin hernia repair. Different procedures have been prescribed for hernioplasty either by open or laparoscopic approaches. Tension-free hernioplasty and obliteration of myopectineal orifices necessitate mesh insertion with different methods for its fixation. Chronic groin pain post hernioplasty (either open or laparoscopic) has been considered multifactorial and most of it has been attributed to the method of mesh fixation.

Aim

This study aims to evaluate the outcome of temporary percutaneous mesh fixation in transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP) using a fascial closure device or straight needle suture.

Patients and methods

This prospective study was carried out in the Department of General Surgery Al-Hussein Hospital, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, from October 2016 to December 2017, during which 30 patients were subjected to laparoscopic TAPP hernioplasty with percutaneous mesh fixation and followed up for 1 year. A full preoperative assessment was carried out on all patients. TAPP hernioplasty with percutaneous mesh fixation was performed for all patients; postoperative follow-up was performed for detection of early and late postoperative complications. All cases were followed up for 1 year to detect late complications such as chronic pain and recurrence.

Results

In this study, the mean age of the patients was 39.2 years. The operative time ranged from 50 to 90 min. All patients underwent uneventful TAPP repair for groin hernia; only one patient had port site bleeding, which was properly controlled during surgery. All patients were discharged on the second postoperative day with a mean hospital stay of 1 day and allowed to resume daily activities at mean 7.5 days postoperatively. Pseudohernia developed in 10% of patients without true recurrence. Only one patient developed recurrence 6 months postoperatively. One year postoperatively, none of the patients had persistent pain and there was no other recurrence.

Conclusion

Temporary percutaneous mesh fixation in TAPP hernioplasty either by fascial closure device or by straight needle suture is sufficient, effective in mesh fixation and reasonable in terms of cost, enabling better availability to all patients, and yielding nearly the same recurrence rate as ordinary TAPP without permanent groin pain.
Heredity of nasal polyps
Authors: Bohman A. , Oscarsson M. , Holmberg K. , Johansson L. , Millqvist E. , Nasic S. , Torinsson-Naluai A. , Bende M.
Published: June 2021

Background: Nasal polyps is a common disease but little is known about its` pathogenesis. Our hypothesis was that there are genetic factors involved in the development of this disease. The aim of this study was to examine close relatives of patients with nasal polyps and comparing them with a general population with regard to prevalence of polyps. Methodology: Patients with nasal polyps who attended the clinic were recruited to the study and were asked whether they had any close adult relatives (siblings, parents or children). We intended to recruit two relatives per patient, one of each gender, for nasal endoscopy. The prevalence of nasal polyps in these relatives was compared with the prevalence of nasal polyps in a general population. Results: During a 4-year period, 368 patients and 410 relatives were recruited to the study. Although we were unable to recruit two close relatives for every patient, we were able to calculate nasal polyp prevalence within families as being 19.2%. Compared with the prevalence of nasal polyps among individuals in a general Swedish population from the same geographical area, the relative risk for polyps among relatives was almost five times higher. Conclusion: This study strongly indicates that heredity is a factor of importance for development of nasal polyps.
Pedicled lateral nasal wall flap for the reconstruction of the nasal septum perforation. A radio-anatomical study
Authors: Alobid Isam , Mason Eric , Solares C. Arturo , Prevedello Daniel , Ensenat Joaquim , De Notaris Matteo , Prats-Galino Alberto , Bernal-Sprekelsen Manuel , Carrau Ricardo
Published: June 2021

Introduction: The aim of this radio-anatomical study is to ensure that the potential donor area of the pedicled lateral nasal wall flap (PLNW) is adequate to reconstruct nasal perforation. Material and methods: Analysis was conducted on 40 de-identified CT angiographies. The area and length of the PLNW, the septum, and the nasal floor were measured. In a cadaver study, 20 hemi-cranial sagittal sections were also analyzed. The anterior-posterior length of the PLNW flap and the distance between the sphenopalatine foramen and piriform aperture were measured. A clinical study with endoscopic closure of a large perforation was conducted in three patients. Results: The CT angiographies demonstrated an average PLNW area of 10.80±1.13 cm2 and a nasal floor area of 3.78±0.58 cm2. The septal area (22.54±21.32 cm2) was significantly larger than the total PLNW flap area (14.59±1.21 cm2). The average length of the flap was 5.58±0.39 cm, while the septum was 6.66±0.42 cm; therefore the PLNW flap is insufficient to reconstruct the entire septum. The cadaver study showed that the length of the PLNW flap was 5.28±0.40 cm. These results demonstrate that measurements obtained from CT scans are reliable data and similar to those found in the radiological study. Complete closure was achieved in all three patients. Conclusion: The PLNW flap does not render enough tissue to reconstruct a total septal perforation; however, up to 84% of the septum could be repaired with a PLNW. The potential donor area obtained by CT scan and clinical practice support the approachability of PLNW to repair large septal perforation.
Adaptation and validation of the Spanish version of the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) Scale
Authors: Larrosa Francisco , Roura Josep , Dura Maria J. , Guirao Miquel , Alberti Anna , Alobid Isam
Published: June 2021

Background: The Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale is a symptom-specific, self-completed questionnaire for assessing quality of life related to nasal obstruction or its treatment in patients with septal deviation. The aim of this study was to validate the Spanish adaptation of the NOSE, thus allowing comparison across studies and international multicenter projects. Methodology: Multicenter prospective instrument validation study. Guidelines for the cross-cultural adaptation process from the original English language scale into a Spanish language version were followed. The psychometric properties (reproducibility, reliability, validity, responsiveness) of the Spanish version ("NOSE-e" for "NOSE-espanol") were assessed in 58 consecutive patients undergoing septoplasty (both before and 3 months after surgery) and 58 matched asymptomatic controls. Results: Test-retest reliability and internal consistency reliability were adequate. The NOSE-e demonstrated satisfactory construct validity. Positive correlations between the NOSE-e scores and the score of a visual analog scale measuring the subjective sensation of nasal obstruction were found. The instrument showed excellent between-groups discrimination and high response sensitivity to change. Conclusions: The Spanish version of the NOSE (NOSE-e) is a valid tool for measuring the subjective severity of nasal obstruction, and its use is recommended.