bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐efficiency and noise‐robust DCSK approach based on an analytically solvable chaotic oscillator
Authors: Liu Lidong , Li Yi , Zhang Zhaolun , Song Huansheng , Jin Zhao
Published: October 2018

A novel high‐efficiency and noise‐robust differential chaos shift keying (DCSK) communication approach based on an analytically solvable chaotic oscillator (ASCO) is proposed. Due to the special characteristic of the ASCO that provides predictability over specific intervals of every binary symbol period, the proposed communication system requires no reference signal like conventional DCSK systems, which can double the data transmission rate. Meanwhile, the originally transmitted binary information can be recovered by conducting integration processing of the received signal over the specific intervals of every binary symbol period, even under strong noise conditions, which provides a low bit error rate (BER). Simulations are conducted to verify that the proposed DCSK approach provides a much lower BER than conventional DCSK approaches.
Exact analysis of the least‐mean‐square algorithm with coloured measurement noise
Authors: Lara Pedro , Olinto Karen da S. , Petraglia Felipe R. , Haddad Diego B.
Published: October 2018

In general, theoretical analyses of adaptive filtering algorithms employ statistical approximations in order to render the derivations tractable. Among such hypotheses, the statistical independence between the current adaptive coefficients and past input vectors is a very popular one. Unfortunately, this simplification gives rise to discrepancies with respect to empirical results, especially for large values of the step‐size parameter. In this Letter, this issue is overcome by the usage of an exact expectation analysis (i.e. a stochastic model that does not employ the above‐mentioned independence assumption) of the least‐mean‐squares adaptive algorithm. The authors analysis is also generalised in order to address the common case of coloured additive noise, an issue that is so far missing from the literature. The accuracy of the advanced model is verified through simulations.
Application of K-nearest neighbours method for water pipes failure frequency assessment
Authors: Kutyłowska Małgorzata
Published: October 2018

The paper describes the results of failure rate modeling using K-nearest neighbours method (KNN). This algorithm is one among other regression methods, called machine learning methods. The aim of the presented paper was to check the possibilities of application of such kind of modelling and the comparison between current results and investigations of failure rate prediction in another Polish city. Operational data from 12 years of exploitation, received from water utility, were used to predict dependent variable (failure rate). Data (249 and 294 for distribution pipes and house connections, respectively) from the time span 2001–2012 were used for creating the KNN models. On the basis of other data (one case for each year) the validation of optimal model, based on Euclidean distance metric with the number of nearest neighbours K = 2, was carried out. The realization of the modelling was performed in the software program Statistica 12.0.
Testing the efficiency of water aeration with the use of ATOL-OXY type air applier
Authors: Glowacka Anna , Bogusławski Bartosz
Published: October 2018

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of aeration with the use of an applier (a device for aeration of sludge protected by the patent application no P-416711) by determination of characteristics of its operation depending on the stream of water flowing through the device, the height of the outlet over the water table and multiplication factors of measuring water pumped through the applier. On the basis of laboratory tests/measurements, a mathematical model of the increased concentration of oxygen dissolved in water has been developed.

As a result of the research, a significant increase in oxygen concentration has been achieved only after the first water pumping through the applier. The determined mathematical model can be used to calculate predicted increases of oxygen concentration dissolved in water in variants other than those investigated.
A concept to use energy of air flows of technogenic area of mining enterprises
Authors: Cabana Edgar , Falshtynskyi Volodymyr , Saik Pavlo , Lozynskyi Vasyl , Dychkovskyi Roman
Published: October 2018

Topical issues concerning the possibilities of effective energy generation on the basis of Ukrainian mining enterprises have been highlighted. Attention is drawn to one of the most challenging tendencies of nontraditional energy sources development in the process of wind-driven powerplant use. The plants consume energy of technogenic air flows. Operation schemes and engineering solutions as for the possibilities to involve nontraditional sources of energy resulting from operation of technogenic objects and industrial structures of enterprises (i.e. stopes, mine dumps, industrial facilities etc.) in power balance of a mining enterprise have been demonstrated. Energy efficiency of the wind-driven powerplants in the context of different operation schemes aimed at utilization of energy of technogenic air flows has been analyzed. Output of a wind-driven system as a component of technological segment of a mining enterprise making it possible to meet 20 to 44% of its power demand has been determined. The objective of the paper is to substantiate process solutions as well as technical and engineering ones as for the obtaining nontraditional energy sources basing upon introduction of wind-driven power plants.
Influence of man-made edaphotopes of the spoil heap on biota
Authors: Popovych Vasyl , Kuzmenko Oleksandr , Voloshchyshyn Andrii , Petlovanyi Mykhailo
Published: October 2018

The aim of the work is to investigate the influence of man-made edaphotopes of colliery spoil heap on biota by bioindication method. The physicochemical properties of edaphotopes were investigated: humidity, substrate temperature, humus content at different intervals of their depth and on different sections of the waste heap. The storage technologies of mineral waste in the dumps disregard its further use and transforming that occurs over time. It was revealed that on the northern slope exposures the greatest amount of moisture was concentrated and temperature regimes were acceptable for the activity of the soil biota, which was proved by the largest amount of biomass. New dependences of humus content in edaphotopes of the heap in different intervals of their depth from biomass of humus-forming organisms were established. Slight successional processes on the surface of the heap were observed, where young flora began to develop. This positive phenomenon will contribute to the humus of the genetic horizons and the development of tree and shrub vegetation. Favourable conditions for the development of neo-terrain and the formation of a new landscape in mining regions were confirmed.
Formation of safety conditions for development of deposits by open mining
Authors: Anisimov Oleh , Symonenko Volodymyr , Cherniaiev Oleksii , Shustov Oleksandr
Published: October 2018

The researched parameters of the catching device, which ensures the safe operation of equipment and working people in deep open pits, where are formed the benches by steep dipping layers. For obtaining the results, the following methods were used: analytical – in determining existing devices for the capture of rocks; geometric – in determining the direction of the flight of blocks, semigraphical – in plotting and analyzing them. The modern technological catching devices, their structure, construction are analyzed. These structures protective devices can be used in deep pits in the development of deposits. Analytical dependence of the height of the jump the block of rock after hitting about a horizontal surface is improved, which takes into account the rate of falling and the angle of rebound the block, the elasticity of the surface. Creating of catching designs which capture the blocks of rock in the falling from the upper horizons in open pits allows to operate safely the mining equipment and to save the lives of workers. Especially this is important in the development of deposits by steep dipping layers. Proposed solutions can improve the safe using of dump trucks and moving workers in the work zone in the mining ledges of height over 30 meters.
Optical SAR Images Fusion: Comparative Analysis of Resulting Images Data
Authors: Yuhendra  , Minarni
Published: October 2018

Image fusion is a useful tool for integrating low spatial resolution multispectral (MS) images with a high spatial resolution panchromatic (PAN) image, thus producing a high resolution multispectral image for better understanding of the observed earth surface. A main proposed the research were the effectiveness of different image fusion methods while filtering methods added to speckle suppression in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images. The quality assessment of the filtering fused image implemented by statistical parameter namely mean, standard deviation, bias, universal index quality image (UIQI) and root mean squared error (RMSE). In order to test the robustness of the image quality, either speckle noise (Gamma map filter) is intentionally added to the fused image. When comparing and testing result, Gram Scmidth (GS) methods have shown better results for good colour reproduction, as compared with high pass filtering (HPF). And the other hands, GS, and wavelet intensity hue saturation (W-IHS) have shown the preserving good colour with original image for Landsat TM data.
Solid-State Fermentation of Banana Peels Potential Study for Feed Additive
Authors: Fatmawati Akbarningrum , Lidiawati Tuani , Hadinata Stephen , Adiarto Mikhael
Published: October 2018

Agricultural solid wastes present abundantly on earth as crops harvesting as well as processing are countinuesly run. Banana peels are one of agricultural solid wastes produced anywhere the banana processing presents. The peels present abundantly in tropical countries such as Indonesia. The carbohydrate content of banana peels make it useful for the production of many chemicals, including feed. Meanwhile the large need in feed in farming including fish farming could prevent farmer to obtain substantial profit. This research studied the possibility of banana peel as one of abundant Indonesian agricultural solid waste to be utilized as fish feed which is known requiring certain level of protein content. This was done by fermenting the peels in fixed bed reaction mode using surface aeration and non-aeration. The fermentation was conducted using yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae Y1536 and Rhizopus Oryzae FNCC 6157. The reaction time was varied for 1, 3, and 5 days. The important parameters studied were protein contents, and amylase activity of the fermented banana peels. Despite aeration indicated more operational cost, it showed significant impact on the fermentation of banana peels. The best condition for fermentation using Saccharomyces cerevisiae Y1536 were 5 day fermentation with surface aeration which result in the increase of protein content up to 4.05%, the decrease of fiber content up to 1.08%, and amylase activity of 9.99 DP. Whilst the fermentation using Rhizopus Oryzae FNCC 6157 obtained its best result at 1 day fermentation with aeration, which are protein content increase up to 4.04% and fiber content decrease up to 0.69%. However, the fermentation using this mold showed its best amylase activity result of 12.75 DP at 5 day surface aerated fermentation.
Analysis of Power Loss of 20 kV Power Distribution
Authors: Dasman Dasman
Published: October 2018

In the distribution of electrical energy from the plant to the consumer, there is a decrease in quality due to the loss of power (losses). These power losses are caused by a voltage drop across the line and subsequently producing a power loss on the line. This power loss can be classified into two types based on its line parameters, i.e., active power loss and reactive power loss. The line’s active power loss generates losses of power/losses so that the active power reaches the load on the receiving end is always less than the productive power of the sender side. Power losses in the electrical system must exist and cannot be reduced to 0% (zero percent). According to SPLN No. 72 of 1987, the permitted distribution network’s power loss should not be higher than 10%. This paper investigates the magnitude of the voltage loss and the line active power losses on the 20 kV distribution line. The calculation conducted through case study and simulation of Etap 12.6 program on an electrical power distribution system that is 20 kV distribution line in PT. PLN (Persero) Rayon Muara Labuh. In the distribution line 20 kV, there is IPP (Independent Power Plant) PLTMH PT SKE used to improve the stress conditions in Rayon Muara Labuh. Therefore the loss of power will be calculated in 3 terms, i.e., before and after IPP PT. SKE with 20 kV distribution lines as well as on feeder load maintenance (as a repair action plan). The simulation results show the highest voltage drop and the highest power losses continue generated during IPP. PT SKE has not done synchronized with the distribution line of 20 kV with a significant voltage drop of 1,533 kV percentage of 7.93% and power loss of 777.528 kWh percentage of 7.69%.
Coal blend properties and evaluation on the quality of stamp charging coke from weakly coking blends
Authors: Liu Xue-yan , Han Xing , Cheng Huan , Yin Xi-Tao , Guo Rui , Zhao Xue-fei , Wang Qi
Published: October 2018

Stamp charging coking can use weakly coking coal effectively, which can cut the cost for iron and steel enterprises. However, the quality of stamp charging coke has been debated due to lower CSR index. In this paper, the correlation between blend coking properties and quality indices of stamp charging coke is given out through statistical analysis of data from coking production, the effect of blend properties and stamping on the properties of stamp charging coke is estimated through microstructure, and the strength after reaction of stamp charging coke is evaluated through temperature dependence of reacted coke strength and BF smelting. The results show that the stamping permits to use the weakly coking blend with lower G index without impairing the M10 and M40 indices, but the CSR index is decreased. Meanwhile, the reason that the stamp charging coke with lower CSR index can also be used smoothly in BF is presented. The present works are significant to guide the blending of increasing weakly coking coal and evaluate reasonably the quality of stamp charging cokes.
ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community: ASEAN Approach and Effort in Rural Development and Poverty Eradication
Authors: Anggo Fujica Anak , Laja Louis
Published: October 2018

This paper examines the ASEAN Community approach and effort towards rural development and poverty eradication. The research by ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community which highlighted rural development and poverty eradication was driven by many factors. What has ASEAN planned to reduce poverty and increase rural development? Is this plan realistic? What approach was used? The World Bank defined rural development as a strategy designed to improve the economic and social life of a specific group of people; the rural poor. It involves extending the benefits of development to the poor among those who seek a livelihood in rural areas. “Human capital development should not be neglected as well as it can be the main engine of growth. We must leverage the existing human capital resources towards a holistic approach to rural development” (Bernama, 2017). In addition, according to Malaysia’s former Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Dr. Zahid Hamidi, poverty eradication not only continues to be a priority in the ASEAN region as stated in ASEAN Socio-cultural Community Blueprints 2025 but also globally as outlined in the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This study will explain broadly what ASEAN Socio Cultural Community is building towards rural development and poverty eradication by its notion of people centricity.1
Character Pleasantness in Malaysian Animated Cartoon Characters
Authors: Arshad Mohd Rosli , Yoon Kim Hae , Manaf Ahmad Azaini
Published: October 2018

Current global trends have proved the creative industry to be one of the important sources of economic growth among developed countries. Creativity and its importance for Malaysia have made it imperative for any business organization to use creativity in a range of ways including multimedia content and animation. Malaysian animation viewers are rapidly influenced by digital media entertainment. The rise of such entertainment tends to drive them away from understanding what lies behind it that affect their emotion and thoughts. Therefore, the focus of this paper is to look into the experiences of “pleasantness” in viewer’s emotions that stimulate the perception of pleasure when watching Malaysian animated cartoon characters. A descriptive and One-Way Anova will be implemented in this study to examine the design aesthetics and perception from the animation viewers that affects the psychological experiences in emotions that determines the pleasantness feeling. Overall, the results indicate that perceived pleasantness on Malaysian animated cartoon characters did not differ between age and gender. We believe this finding will benefit the creative content creators and help them to understand more about local animation viewers.
Exploring Undergraduates’ Judgements on the Qualities of Corrective Feedback for English Pronunciation Errors
Authors: Abu Bakar Zulqarnain , Embong Abdul Mutalib
Published: October 2018

The present study is an investigative work to examine learners’ judgements on some proposed error correction methods, in connection with mispronounced English words. Learners are to evaluate the qualities of six different types of correction approaches, in terms of ‘embarrassment’, ‘comprehensibility’ and ‘effectiveness’ through a set of 36 error-correcting-act video clips representing the six correction types. A set of corresponding questionnaire survey in exploring respondents’ insights was administered. Comparisons by their learning experience (year) and environment (institution) were carried out to study any effect on their judgements. The results of the survey conducted on 88 undergraduate students revealed that the respondents seem to share the same pattern of observations despite their learning experience and types of higher institutions. They have concern on the aspect of ‘embarrassment’ in relation to all corrective feedback types except forRepetitionandClarification Requestswhich are more communicative in their approach.
Freedom of belief in the light of Maqasid al-shariah: Special reference to Sri Lanka
Authors: Mohamed Rishard Najimudeen , Mohideen Nayeem Mohamed , Sulam Muhaimin
Published: October 2018

Concept of maqasid al-shariah (purposes of Shariah) is being re-interpreted in order to confront modern challenges and questions. This research analyses how the predominant segment of maqasid al-shariah, Protection of Religion, has been interpreted by modern scholars in a conflicting terminology as ‘freedom of belief’ and how they discuss the misapprehended texts which relate to the topic. Research focuses on applying the modern concept of freedom of belief which is one of the universal values, into Muslim majority countries as well as Sri Lanka where Muslims are a minority. A Special consideration has been specified on freedom of belief in Sri Lanka’s constitution and its implementation. Qualitative data, mostly secondary data, has been used in this study. Data were collected from literary books, journal articles and internet sources. This research finds out that Sri Lanka in particular, a number of Muslim minority countries in general are healthier than several Muslim majority countries, especially Middle East countries, in practicing freedom of belief.
The Distribution of Zakat: A Comparison between the Rate of Niṣāb and the Rate of Poverty Line Income in Malaysia
Authors: Isa Muhammad Pisol Mat , Senawi Azhan Rashid , Harun Azhar
Published: October 2018

Zakat plays a significant role in Muslim community as an agent in alleviating the poverty. The calculation of zakat payment depends of the calculation of nisab, which is the least amount of zakatable items of a Muslim wealth in one circle year. The zakat is an obligatory duty to a Muslim once the amount of wealth reaches the least level of nisab. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the niṣāb amount changes and the poor indication in Malaysia. This is based on the discussion of the contemporary scholars, who claimed that the price fluctuation in the world market impacts the amount of niṣāb of zakāt. Relatively, it could affect the poor once the price dropped. Therefore, the comparative analyses of the annually niṣāb and poverty line income data from 1993 to 2015 identifies that there is a significant correlation between the facts. Accordingly, it is an alert to the zakāt institution to take a precautionary step in preventing this situation.
Influence of Student Isolation on Students’ University Learning Experiences: Perspectives of Academic, Social and Psychological Development
Authors: Lim Shing Yu Jolene , Vighnarajah
Published: October 2018

With the latitude of globalisation spreading across countries in the world, student transfer and studying abroad have been made easier and more economical for students who intend to further their studies abroad. This growing population of international students shows the need to start addressing critical underlying issues regarding accommodation of new environment of international freshmen, plausible barriers faced by international students at their host countries and measures to minimise negative impression of intercultural communication. The growing amalgamation of local and international cultures also evinces symptoms of isolation among the local students. In light of this aim, this descriptive-analytical study investigates the correlation between student isolation and their university learning experiences, with the latter variable indexed in terms of academic, social and psychological isolation. A total of 581 students across various disciplines participated in this study. Findings provide rich, descriptive understanding of the phenomenon of student isolation, and facilitate the awareness to all stakeholders to give more leverage in the engagement and management of such issue in the educational context. Conclusively, findings have shown the importance of prioritising students’ needs from a holistic view as every aspect intertwines to enhance students’ success rate during their learning journey in university, as well as employability rate after their graduation.
Langzeitergebnis nach autologer Membrana-limitans-interna-Lappenplastik bei nicht verschlossenem Makulaloch
Authors: Guber Josef , Vieregge Max , Scholl Hendrik P. N. , Valmaggia Christophe
Published: October 2018

Ziel Das Ziel dieser Studie ist es, die Operationstechnik sowie die Langzeitergebnisse nach freiem autologem Membrana-limitans-interna-Lappen (ILM-Lappen) für nicht verschlossene Makulalöcher zu evaluieren.

Methoden Die freie ILM-Lappentechnik wurde als sekundäres Verfahren für nicht schließende Makulalöcher nach fehlgeschlagenem initialem Standardverfahren verwendet. Um das anatomische Ergebnis der Operation zu beurteilen, wurden optische Kohärenztomografie-Aufnahmen (SD-OCT-Aufnahmen) postoperativ durchgeführt, während die bestkorrigierte Sehschärfe (BCVA) verwendet wurde, um das funktionelle Ergebnis zu beurteilen. Alle Patienten wurden über einen Zeitraum von 1 Jahr nachkontrolliert.

Ergebnisse Insgesamt wurden 5 Augen eingeschlossen. Bei allen Patienten konnte das Makulaloch mittels ILM-Lappen erfolgreich verschlossen werden. Eine partielle retinale Regeneration, die als Wiederherstellung der äußeren Grenzmembran und der Ellipsoidzone im SD-OCT dargestellt werden konnte, wurde in allen Fällen beobachtet. Funktionell zeigten die meisten Patienten Verbesserungen der BCVA von 1 – 2 Linien.

Fazit Die autologe ILM-Lappentechnik bei persistierenden Makulalöchern scheint ein sicherer und effektiver Ansatz zu sein. Insgesamt zeigen sich gute anatomische und funktionelle Langzeitergebnisse.
Deutsche Fachgesellschaft für Aktivierendtherapeutische Pflege e. V. (DGATP)
Authors: Bartels Friedhilde
Published: October 2018

Motivation Vielen Patienten, Bewohnern oder Menschen mit Behinderung wird es erst durch die Aktivierend-therapeutische Pflege ermöglicht, therapeutische
Angebote wahrzunehmen und zu erfahren. Eine ausschließlich aktivierende Pflege genügt dafür nicht. Um die Aktivierend-therapeutische Pflege voranzubringen, hat
sich die DGATP gegründet.
MRE in Sachsen – ein Rückblick auf die Jahre 2013 bis 2017
Authors: Schinzel Anja-Susann
Published: October 2018

Sensibilisierung Die Zahlen von MRSA-Inzidenzen zeigen in den letzten Jahren einen leichten Rückgang und können als erster Erfolg der
Präventionsstrategien gesehen werden. Um diesen Erfolg nicht zu gefährden, bedarf es einer weiteren Sensibilisierung der Fachöffentlichkeit mit Informationen
zum Antibiotikamanagement und zu Hygienemaßnahmen beim Umgang mit Betroffenen.
Korrektur horizontaler Schielwinkel nach Dekompressionsoperation bei Patienten mit endokriner Orbitopathie – Vergleich von Sehnenverlängerung und einfacher Rücklagerung des M. rectus medialis
Authors: Oeverhaus Michael , Fischer Maragrethe , Schlüter Anke , Esser Joachim , Eckstein Anja
Published: October 2018

Hintergrund Patienten mit endokriner Orbitopathie (EO) können nach knöcherner Dekompressionsoperation sehr große horizontale Schielwinkel entwickeln, vor allem wenn präoperativ eine massive Muskelverdickung vorliegt. Diese großen Schielwinkel können häufig nicht ausreichend mit Rücklagerungen der Mm. recti mediales korrigiert werden. Eine Sehnenverlängerung mit Interponat aus bovinem Perikard (Tutopatch®) ist dann eine Alternative zur gleichzeitigen Resektion des M. rectus lateralis. Wir berichten hier über unsere klinischen Erfahrungen mit Operationen am M. rectus medialis nach knöcherner 3-Wand-Dekompression.

Methoden Patienten mit ein- und beidseitigen Medialis-Rücklagerungen (MR, BMR) (n = 87) und beidseitigen Medialis-Rücklagerungen kombiniert mit Sehnenverlängerung (n = 60) durch Interponat, an einer oder beiden Seite(n) wurden hinsichtlich des operativen Erfolgs (Restschielwinkel ≤ 5° ggf. ausgeglichen mit Prismen, doppelbildfreies Gebrauchsblickfeld – zentrale 20° mit Kopfzwangshaltung ≤ 10°), der Dosis-Wirkungs-Beziehung (DWB; °/mm) und der postoperativen Augenmotilität retrospektiv nach 3 und 12 Monaten analysiert.

Ergebnisse In allen Patientengruppen zeigte sich eine deutliche geringere Dosis-Wirkungs-Beziehung im Vergleich zur MR ohne vorangegangene Dekompression: 1,2 ± 0,4°/mm für die einseitige (MR) und 1,0 ± 0,3°/mm für die beidseitige Medialis-Rücklagerung (BMR); 0,92 ± 0,3°/mm für die einseitige Sehnenverlängerung kombiniert mit einer MR am anderen Auge (BMR + IP) und 0,87 ± 0,3°/mm für die beidseitige Sehnenverlängerung (BMR + BIP). Da bei der präoperativen Planung eine höhere DWB angenommen wurde, war ein großer Teil der Patienten postoperativ unterkorrigiert. Unter Berücksichtigung der tatsächlichen DWB ergeben sich auch bei diesen sehr schwer erkrankten EO-Patienten akzeptable OP-Erfolgsraten: Bei einfacher Rücklagerung um 90% und bei Sehnenverlängerung um 70%.

Schlussfolgerung Nach knöcherner Orbitadekompression muss man Medialis-Rücklagerungen bzw. Rücklagerungen in Kombination mit Sehnenverlängerung höher dosieren als bei Patienten ohne vorangegangene Dekompression. Einfache Rectus-medialis-Rücklagerungen sind deshalb nur bis zu einem Schielwinkel von 15° sinnvoll. Bei größeren Schielwinkeln bis 25° kann man Interponate einsetzen.
Sleep Profile and Self-Reported Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Vertically HIV-Infected Adolescents on cART
Authors: García-Navarro Cristina , Ruiz-Saez Beatriz , Sainz Talía , Jiménez de Ory Santiago , Rojo Pablo , Mellado Peña María , Prieto Luis , Muñoz-Fernandez Maria , Zamora Berta , Cuéllar-Flores Isabel , Velo Carlos , Martin-Bejarano Manuela , Ramos José , Navarro Gómez María , González-Tomé Maria
Published: October 2018

Background Sleep quality (SQ) data in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pediatric population are scarce. Our main objective was to assess SQ in our cohort and to determine the impact of antiretroviral therapy (ART) on sleep in a cohort of HIV-infected adolescents on cART.

Materials and Methods The SQ was assessed through the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NS) were recorded using an auto-administered questionnaire. To determine the antiretroviral (ARV) impact of efavirenz (EFV) on SQ, patients on EFV versus protease inhibitors-based regimens were compared.

Results Forty-six patients were evaluated (median age: 16 years, interquartile range [IQR]: 10.8, 17)). Age at the start of ART: 1.3 years (0.4, 5.2); 23.9% showed acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) category. Median CD4 at baseline was 656 (550, 808) cells/mm3; 91.3% had viral load <50 copies/mL. Median time on cART was 11.3 years (7.5, 15.2). Fifty-two percent of the patients were on EFV-based regimen. No differences were found in clinical and immunovirological variables although patients on EFV were older and were exposed for a longer time to ARV. Poor SQ was found in 26.1% of patients. Most frequent complaints were: sleep disturbances (76.1%), sleep latency (63%), and daytime dysfunction (54.3%). Similarly, there were no significant differences in NS between both treatment groups according to patients' reports but were significantly more common in bad sleepers. Patients on EFV-based regimen were more likely to repeat one or more school grades after the adjustment for age at evaluation and nadir CD4 percentage (odds ratio [OR]: 14.421, confidence interval [CI] 95%: 1.207–172.249, p = 0.035).

Conclusions Sleep complaints and NS are common among our cohort of HIV adolescents on long-term cART and interestingly, not only in those who were receiving EFV.
Levetiracetam is Less Effective than Phenobarbital in Treating Seizures Associated with KCNQ2 Variant of Benign Familial Neonatal Convulsions
Authors: Milrod Charles J. , Palmer Jeremy J. , Milrod Lewis M.
Published: October 2018

Benign familial neonatal convulsions (BFNC) is an autosomal dominant disorder that presents with generalized tonic–clonic and partial seizures. Levetiracetam is becoming increasingly popular for the treatment of neonatal seizures due to a benign safety profile. Concern has arisen over possible neurotoxicity and apoptosis due to phenobarbital. A male infant with BFNC due to a KCNQ2 mutation responded to phenobarbital but not to levetiracetam. The patient's brother with the same mutation had seizures on day 4 of life; phenobarbital was administered and he became seizure free. This suggests that levetiracetam is a less effective treatment than phenobarbital for BFNC.
Classic Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome in a Son and Father with a Heart Transplant Performed in the Father
Authors: Sen Paushpala , Butler Merlin
Published: October 2018

We report a 13-year-old male patient with severe orthopedic problems including features of a connective tissue disorder and a heterozygous c.305T > A variant found within exon 3 of the autosomal dominant collagen (COL5A1) gene causing the classic Ehlers–Danlos syndrome. This variant has not been reported previously and identified as having an unknown clinical significance but classified as trending damaging per in silico prediction with high conservation among species. Our patient's father had the same gene variant and similar features of stretchable skin, easy bruising, and multiple joint dislocations. The father had unexplained heart failure requiring cardiac transplantation at 43 years of age.
Long-Term Outcome after Successful Lower Extremity Free Flap Salvage
Authors: Bigdeli Amir , Gazyakan Emre , Schmidt Volker , Bauer Christoph , Germann Günter , Radu Christian , Kneser Ulrich , Hirche Christoph
Published: October 2018

Background Vascular occlusion after free flap surgery has become a rare complication but still poses a major challenge. It necessitates urgent re-exploration, but the logistic challenge to provide sufficient resources for the emergency intervention remains. The aim of this study was to analyze the long-term outcome after successful lower extremity free flap salvage.

Methods A single-center retrospective study including long-term follow-up was approved by the local ethics committee. From January 1999 to December 2010, a total of 581 free flaps were performed for lower extremity reconstruction. Eighty-six flaps required emergency re-exploration, of which 65 could be salvaged. Fifteen salvaged flaps were excluded from the study because of secondary amputation. Of 50 patients, 29 (6 females and 23 males) were eligible for follow-up. The mean follow-up time was 54.5 ± 32.9 months. Health-related quality of life (Short Form 36 [SF-36]) and scar quality (Vancouver Scar Scale [VSS]) were analyzed.

Results The overall flap survival rate was 94.7% and the total loss rate was 5.3%. The re-exploration rate was 14.8% (86 of 581 flaps). The salvage rate was 75.6% (65 of 86 flaps). Twenty-one free flaps were totally lost (24.4%). Partial flap loss occurred in 12 cases (14.0%); 67.5% of the vascular complications occurred during the first 24 hours, 20.9% between 24 and 72 hours, and 11.6% after more than 72 hours. The mean time from the first signs of impaired flap perfusion to re-exploration was 1.3 ± 0.4 hours, and from free tissue transfer to re-exploration was 16.2 ± 1.9 hours. The overall scar appearance was good with an average VSS score of 4.0 points. The average SF-36 physical component score was 54.4 ± 5.4 and the mental component score was 63.1 ± 10.7.

Conclusion Careful monitoring and the opportunity for urgent re-exploration are the key to success for free flaps salvage. Following these principles, an acceptable long-term outcome can be achieved.
Work-Related Musculoskeletal Discomfort and Injury in Microsurgeons
Authors: Howarth Ashley , Hallbeck Susan , Mahabir Raman , Lemaine Valerie , Evans Gregory , Noland Shelley
Published: October 2018

Background Long surgical procedures with loupe magnification and microscopes may put microsurgeons at an increased risk of musculoskeletal discomfort. Identifying the prevalence and impact of work-related musculoskeletal discomfort may guide preventive strategies to prolong well-being, job satisfaction, and career duration.

Methods An online 29-question survey was designed to evaluate work-related musculoskeletal discomfort. The survey was created and distributed electronically through a private survey research center and was sent to the members of the American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery.

Results There were 117 respondents (16.7% response rate): 80% were men; 69% were aged 31 to 50 years; and 68% were in academic practice. On a scale of 0 to 10 (0, no pain and 10, worst pain), the median for work-related musculoskeletal discomfort for surgery without loupes or microscope was 2; with loupes, 4; and with a microscope, 5. Pain was most common in the neck. Half of the surgeons reported pain within 4 hours of surgery, and 57% feared that pain would influence future surgical performance. Surgeon discomfort affected posture (72%), stamina (36%), sleep (29%), relationships (25%), concentration (22%), and surgical speed (19%). Tremor caused by the discomfort occurred in 8%. Medical treatment for discomfort was sought by 29%. Time off work for treatment occurred for 8%.

Conclusion Work-related musculoskeletal discomfort can affect many aspects of a microsurgeon's life and has the potential to limit a surgeon's ability to operate. Therefore, more emphasis is needed in the surgical community on the important issues of occupational health and surgical ergonomics for microsurgeons.
Piezoelectric bimorph as a high-sensitivity viscosity resonant sensor to test the anisotropy of magnetorheological fluid
Authors: Fras Leszek J. , Dziekonski Cezary , Dera Wojciech , Jarząbek Dariusz M.
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we present a device which is very sensitive for small changes in the viscosity of the investigated fluid. The main part of the device is a piezo-electric bimorph which consists of the brass shim with two piezo-ceramic layers on the opposite sides. One of them is responsible for generating vibrations, whereas the second one is meant to measure system response which is produced by the damping properties of the surrounding fluid. During the experiment, the cylindrical bar is forced to move by the series of sinusoidal waves with different frequencies and at constant amplitudes. The probe is immersed in the fluid and then the amplitude vs frequency and phase vs frequency curves are obtained. Next, one can determine the viscosity according to a proper mathematical model. The resonant frequency is related to the damping coefficient which depends on the viscosity of the surrender fluid and immersion depth of the probe. The coefficients necessary for calculating viscosity are obtained by fitting the resonance curve to the amplitude vs frequency data obtained from the experiment. The device has been applied to study the anisotropy of magnetorheological fluids. The weak anisotropy of viscosity has been observed. The highest value of viscosity was observed in the case of viscosity measurement in the direction orthogonal to the magnetic field and the lowest in the direction parallel to the magnetic field.
Applicability of transfer entropy for the calculation of effective diffusivity in heat transport
Authors: Nicolau J. H. , García L. , Carreras B. A. , van Milligen B. Ph.
Published: October 2018

A method has been proposed to study heat transport in magnetically confinement plasmas, based on the transfer entropy (TE). In this work, we study this method by introducing perturbations in simulations made using a resistive Magneto-HydroDynamic model. The evolution of radial heat transport is monitored using the TE, and these results are used to compute an effective heat diffusivity. This effective diffusivity is then compared to estimates from other methods. The analysis is applied to several numerical simulations and in various radial ranges. It is shown that the transfer entropy is a suitable technique to analyze heat transport and evaluate an effective diffusivity in fusion plasmas.
X-ray absorption spectrum combined with deep neural network for on-line detection of beverage preservatives
Authors: Hu Weifeng , Chen Siyuan , Li Yuqi , Wang Qian , Fang Zheng
Published: October 2018

Aiming at the problem that the common preservative detection methods are too cumbersome and costly, a rapid on-line detection method based on X-ray absorption spectrum (XAS) for beverage preservatives is proposed. Benzoic acid, potassium sorbate, sodium dehydrogenate, and propyl p-hydroxybenzoate were selected to form standard concentration and excess concentration solutions. XAS data were collected by an X-ray spectrum detection system, and the leave one out cross-validation method was used to divide the data set. Principal component analysis was used to extract the main features of the spectrum. Deep neural network (DNN) and support vector machine were established to classify samples of different powders and different concentrations of solutions. DNN reached 100% and 94.17% recognition rates on preservative powders and potassium sorbate solutions, respectively. The experimental results show that XAS combined with DNN can identify different types of preservative powder and detect whether the preservative content of the beverage exceeds the standard, which provides a new way to achieve fast on-line detection of preservative content in beverages.
The magnetoelectric effect of the CFO thin film by coupling a P(VDF-co-TrFE) piezoelectric layer
Authors: Xia Weimin , Yin Yaling , Zhang Zhicheng , Xu Zhuo
Published: October 2018

The CoFe2O4 (CFO) thin films are prepared by the sol-gel method combined with the spin-casting process, and the related SEM and XRD results show that a 9-layer spinning of the original sol together with an annealing temperature of 700 °C is the appropriate condition for obtaining this CFO film with an excellent magnetic performance. The CFO films are subsequently compounded with a ferroelectric copolymer poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-trifluoroethylene) [P(VDF-co-TrFE)]. After polarizing the obtained CFO/P(VDF-co-TrFE) double-layer composite film under a high electrical field of 275 MV/m, the P(VDF-co-TrFE) layer shows the character of normal ferroelectricity that has a large dielectric permittivity (ɛ33/ɛ0 = 9.5) and a high piezoelectric value (d31 = 20 pC/N). Interestingly, we also find that the magnetization of this electrically poled CFO/P(VDF-co-TrFE) film increases from 85.58 to 99.15 emu/cm3 at a magnetic field of 1.8 T since the electrostrictive effect may lead to the re-orientation of magnetic domains and thereby resulting in a magnetization easy-axis reorientation effect in the out-of-plane direction of the CFO thin film. Consequently, a large magnetoelectric coupling coefficient (αE31) of 508.5 MV/cm Oe is obtained through calculation provided the interfaces between CFO and P(VDF-co-TrFE) have an appropriate compatible coefficient of about 0.5. The results indicate that the CFO/P(VDF-co-TrFE) double-layer film is a potential multiferroic composite as an attractive candidate for memory storage and spintronic devices.
Intensifying cavitating flows in microfluidic devices with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) microbubbles
Authors: Ghorbani Morteza , Chen Hongjian , Villanueva Luis Guillermo , Grishenkov Dmitry , Koşar Ali
Published: October 2018

Cavitation and the energy associated with the collapse of resulting cavitation bubbles constitute an important research subject. The collapse of the hydrodynamic cavitation bubbles at the outlet of the flow elements leads to a high energy release and generates localized shock waves and a large temperature rise on exposed surfaces. The concept of “hydrodynamic cavitation on chip” is an emerging topic which emphasizes phase change phenomena in microscale and their utilizations in energy and biomedical applications. This study is aimed to investigate the potential of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) Microbubbles (MBs) to generate cavitation bubbles and to evaluate their effects on flow regimes and energy dissipation. For this, three different microchannel configurations with different roughness elements were considered. The structural side wall and surface roughened channels were fabricated along with the smooth channel according to the techniques adopted from semiconductor based microfabrication. The upstream pressure varied from 1 to 7 MPa, and the flow patterns were recorded and analyzed using a high-speed camera. The pressure was locally measured at three locations along the microfluidic devices to determine the conditions for fully developed cavitating flows. The results were compared to the pure water case, and different trends for the cavitating flow pattern transitions were obtained for the water-PVA MB solution case. Accordingly, the twin cavity clouds extended to the end of the side wall roughened channel at a lower upstream pressure for the case of PVA MBs, while the smooth and surface roughened channels do not demonstrate this flow pattern. In addition, the cavitation number has the lowest values under the same working conditions for the case of PVA MBs. Moreover, the impact pressure generated by the bubble collapse inside the side wall roughened channel for the case of PVA MBs was notably higher than that for pure water.
Preparedness for internship: a survey of new interns in a large Victorian Health Service
Authors: Kelly Cate , Noonan Craig L. F. , Monagle John P.
Published: October 2018

Objective.
To gain better understanding of the work-preparedness of new interns and identify areas where further training and education should be provided.

Design.
Surveys of new interns assessing self-reported confidence and preparedness for tasks commonly undertaken without direct supervision. The first survey was undertaken before the cohort had started work, the second once they had completed their second intern rotation.

Setting.
A large metropolitan Victorian health service.

Participants.
All interns starting in 2009 at Southern Health. Of the total 66 interns, 52 (84%) completed the first survey and 37 (56%) completed the second.

Main outcome measure(s).
Self-reported confidence and preparedness for common intern tasks.

Results.
The surveys identified tasks that interns undertake frequently, their preparedness for these and their confidence in completing them. Although most felt reasonably well prepared by their university training for many tasks they commonly undertake as interns, this was not the case for all tasks. In particular, they did not feel well prepared for the following: preoperative patient review, handover, fluid and medication management, patient admissions, assessment of unstable patients, communication with patients and families, and pain management.

Conclusions.
There are particular domains of work-readiness for interns that could be improved. For best results, the training of interns in these common tasks should be undertaken jointly by hospitals and universities to ensure smooth transition from medical student to intern.
What is known about the topic?Transition from student to intern requires a range of skills and attributes. Previous publications have demonstrated a link between the number of times a procedural task has been completed by junior medical staff and confidence in completion.
What does this paper add?This paper documents interns' own views about the tasks commonly undertaken during internship, and their views on how well they were prepared for these tasks by university training and organisational orientation. It considers non-procedural tasks (such as communication and escalation) as well as common intern procedures. It also documents the intern hopes and concerns regarding internship immediately pre-employment and after 20 weeks of employment.
What are the implications for practitioners?Later-year university training experiences and organisational orientation planning should at least in part be geared by the requirements for work-readiness at intern level.