bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introduction of Mobile IT Solutions in the Management of Energy Enterprises (on the Example of Company “Kuban-Energy”)
Authors: Dreizis Yuriy , Grigoryan Irina , Pilosyan Elina , Kazakova Nadezhda
Published: December 2019

Use of mobile devices for performance of corporate tasks becomes more and more widespread way of increase in overall performance of the energy enterprise. Need to accelerate considerably and to effectively organize work of all organization is the main objective of use of technologies of corporate mobility. For this purpose, it is necessary to choose information network (mobile network operator), mobile devices, and means of authentication of the user (for safety of data).The analysis of opportunities of use of mobile technologies and technical means in production and administrative activity of the energy enterprises was a research objective. The analysis of cover zones and tariff plans of various operators of cellular networks was made for definition of opportunities of implementation of technologies of corporate mobility on the example of the territory of Krasnodar region. The most suitable suppliers of cellular communication in the region were also defined. The analysis of the technical means necessary for realization of mobile solutions and the analysis of means of authentication of users, which allow providing data protection from strangers was executed within the research.It is shown that use of mobile technologies in management of the companies will expand functionality of business processes at the energy enterprise, will promote increase in overall performance, growth of competitiveness.
New construction: zero cycle aspects, modern methods and promising materials
Authors: Panfilova Marina
Published: December 2019

This work is aimed at studying the physicochemical processes and establishing the functional dependence of the strength parameters on the sulfur concentration in the composite. The introduction of sulfur in the composite contributes to a change in strength properties, an increase in frost resistance. The dependence of strength on sulfur concentration was studied. The experimental function is determined analytically by solving a system of linear algebraic equations consisting of canonical equations of a given approximating function. The behavior of the dependence of strength on the concentration of nanotubes at two intervals is plotted graphically. Further studies are needed to gain a complete picture of the composite and its characteristics. Nowadays, the results of determining the deformative characteristics are being processed, the impact of the water-cement ratio, the equivalent economic assessment are being studied. At present, an analytical description of the physicochemical and physicomechanical dependencies is being carried out, and an aggregate mathematical model is being built. The results will be presented to the public at subsequent scientific and research conferences.
The influence of architectural decisions on improving the economic efficiency of development projects
Authors: Bovsunovskaya Maria
Published: December 2019

With the changing approaches to the development of territories and the emergence of new legislative initiatives in the Russian Federation, approaches to the implementation of housing development projects become fundamentally different. The previous development model, which is focused solely on the interests of the developer and supported by unsatisfied demand for housing in the post-Soviet period, ceases to work, which necessitates the search for new approaches to the construction business and ways to increase the economic efficiency of investment housing projects. The paper is devoted to the study and systematization of architectural decisions of various levels, which can be taken into account by developers in housing projects in order to increase economic efficiency.
Audit algorithm to increase the competitive stability of a construction company
Authors: Blagodatskaya Angelina
Published: December 2019

The paper presents an algorithm for the implementation of innovative audit when choosing an innovative technology for implementation at the enterprise, which is based on the compliance of the implemented technology with the level of innovative potential of a specific production and economic system. The methodology includes calculating a system of indicators, determining on their basis the level of innovative potential, and then making the optimal decision on the introduction of technology from a bank of possible innovations, which also allows increasing the competitive stability of an enterprise.
Methodical for the decommissioning of generating units for modernization from the position of ensuring the adequacy of electric power systems
Authors: Krupenev Dmitry , Kovalev Gennady , Lebedeva Ludmila
Published: December 2019

The article presents a methodical for determining the procedure for decommissioning for the purpose of modernizing generating equipment while ensuring the highest possible level of adequacy of electric power systems (EPS). The model for assessment of the adequacy of EPS is basis of the methodical. We can choose the most effective option for decommissioning generating units from the standpoint of ensuring the adequacy of EPS using the methodical. The effectiveness of the proposed methodical is shown In the final part of the article.
Topical Issues in Corporate Governance Development in the Russia's Electric Power Industry
Authors: Sheveleva G.I.
Published: December 2019

Corporate governance in the Russian power companies is developing slowly, and its importance for increasing their investment appeal remains underestimated. In order to identify the main problems hindering such development, the assessment of corporate practices of these companies was carried out. It was performed mainly as per the criteria of the guidelines of Russia’s Bank on compliance with the principles of the Corporate Governance Code, as well as those not included in its guidelines. The results obtained were compared to those of the TopCompetence Corporate Governance Center, the Platforma Center for Social Engineering, the Center for Strategic Studies at the MGIMO University, the Corporate Governance Index of the Independent Directors Association and the HSE University. We benchmarked PJSC LUKOIL that ranks among the world's top 10 companies in terms of the total shareholder return as estimated by the Boston Consulting Group. On the basis of a generalization of all the obtained findings we delineated the topical issues of the development of corporate governance. These issues were mainly concerned with the Boards of Directors and were grouped according to the stages of their nomination, election, current operations and performance evaluation. The emphasis was put on the issues related to the adoption of new managerial technologies.
Device for conversion of equalizing current at the site of the traction ac network
Authors: Safarov Abdurauf , Sattarov Khurshid , Jumaboyev Sarvar
Published: December 2019

The article proposes the design of a device for converting the equalizing current using a compensating winding, which meets the requirements for accuracy and reliability on the part of various automated control systems, control and measurement of currents.
Automated control of distributed generation enabled power districts
Authors: Ilyushin Pavel
Published: December 2019

The paper presents the results of integrating distributed generation (DG) facilities in the distribution grids and internal grids of industrial enterprises. It proves such locations require many more additional relay protection and automation devices, including emergency controls; the cost of such systems is on par with that of a DG facility. The paper presents the prerequisites for equipping DG-enabled power districts with routine and emergency controls (REC). It substantiates the use of phasor measurement units as REC sensors in low- and medium-voltage grids. Presented herein are the fundamental principles behind, and functionality of, REC. The paper proves feasible using offline-computed parameters to implement a REC system for further transition to online software-based computing of steady states and transients.
An adaptive single-phase reclosing of line in the scheme with intermediate system
Authors: Samorodov German , Krasil–nikova Tatyana , Jononaev Saiyod
Published: December 2019

Providing the reliability of adaptive single-phase reclosing (ASPR) in line equipped with any number of shunt reactors (SR), including the case of their absence, are considered and analyzed in this paper. The essence of the proposed work is that in order to provide high reliability of ASPR, is carry out short-term (for 0.1 seconds) one-sided switching on of the emergency phase from the side of the intermediate system, is measuring the current value of the current of this phase at the switched end and comparing it with the specified setpoint. If the current is higher than the specified setpoint, then a short or arc fault is detected in the phase and then it gives a command to disconnecting the line, otherwise it is not a short circuit in the phase and it is successfully will turned on to work on the other side of the line.
Determining single-phase earth fault location with applying short-term double earth fault
Authors: Kulikov A.L. , Osokin V.Ju. , Bezdushniy D.I.
Published: December 2019

The single-phase earth faults location are the predominant type of damage in distribution networks of 6-35 kV. The problem of remotely determining the fault location during single-phase earth faults has not definitely accepted practical and accurate solution. The article proposes and substantiates the intellectual methods of determining the fault location with using artificial introduction of short-term double earth faults. In the future by recorded oscillograms of currents and voltages, an accurate calculation of the distance to the damage is assumed.
Adaptation of power lines fault location methods to voltage characteristics deviations
Authors: Obalin Mixail , Majstrenko Georgij
Published: December 2019

The influence of voltage characteristics deviations, acceptable in normal operation of power grid, at power lines emergency state fault location methods precision is considered. The error distributions of emergency state fault location methods across power line length under frequency deviation, single rapid voltage changing and supply voltage unbalance variation are received. The way of emergency state fault location adaptation to voltage characteristics deviations is offered.
Currents and Voltages Induced by Electric Field in Two Converging Single-wire Overhead Transmission Lines
Authors: Zimin Kirill , Rubtsova Nina , Tokarskskiy Andrey
Published: December 2019

The calculations of induced by electric field voltage and current for i line grounded and ungrounded ends depending on p - line convergence part length, а0 minimal distance between convergence lines, and Θ - the angle of lines convergence. Limit values of р, а0 and Θ are determined, one of which disturbance allows to neglect the electric effect of converging transmission lines.
Adaptive multivariable relay protection of reconfigurable distribution networks
Authors: Sharygin Mikhail , Vukolov Vladimir , Petrov Anton
Published: December 2019

Version of relay protection construction of relative selectivity is proposed, which allows increasing its technical perfection and reliability in microgrids with distributed generation sources. This is done by increasing the dimension of the measurement space along arbitrary axes, introducing new methods of recognizing emergency modes, as well as automating the selection of response parameters. Hardware implementation of protection is described. Recommendations for calculating the settings of multidimensional protection and an example of calculation are given. Protection coordination is carried out by using graphical-analytical methods in automatic mode. Automation of the calculation, elimination of the human factor will make it possible to apply the method for adaptation of protection in the conditions of dynamic change of microgrid topology.
Power electrical network topology detection using changes of phasor measurements in transient states
Authors: Gotman Natalja , Shumilova Galina
Published: December 2019

The solution of the problem of a topology detection of an electrical network on changing voltage and current phasors obtained from the phasor measurement units (PMUs) in a transient state using artificial neural networks (ANNs) is considered. Experimental results for the 14-bus test system to detect the failed line after short circuit and the line was turned on by an auto-reclosing device are presented.
Research of the basic characteristics of the new magnetic elastic force sensors
Authors: Amirov Sulton , Jurayeva Kamila
Published: December 2019

The article investigated the static, dynamic and metrological characteristics of new magnetoelastic force sensors taking into account the distribution of parameters of electrical and magnetic circuits. It is shown that taking into account the distribution of circuit parameters during calculations significantly reduces the error in calculating the characteristics of magnetoelastic sensors.
Portable autonomous solar power plant for individual use
Authors: Toshov Javoxir , Saitov Elyor
Published: December 2019

Development and design of low power mobile and inexpensive solar stations are important for farmers, individuals, geologists and trotters. The most important aspect is ensuring reliability of units in times of transportation, convenience and operational ease as well as minimum dimensions, low price. All the above will ensure large-scale implementation of solar stations in various applications and utilizations.
Genes Associated with Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection: 2019 Update and Clinical Implications
Authors: Faggion Vinholo Thais , Brownstein Adam J. , Ziganshin Bulat A. , Zafar Mohammad A. , Kuivaniemi Helena , Body Simon C. , Bale Allen E. , Elefteriades John A.
Published: December 2019

Thoracic aortic aneurysm is a typically silent disease characterized by a lethal natural history. Since the discovery of the familial nature of thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (TAAD) almost 2 decades ago, our understanding of the genetics of this disorder has undergone a transformative amplification. To date, at least 37 TAAD-causing genes have been identified and an estimated 30% of the patients with familial nonsyndromic TAAD harbor a pathogenic mutation in one of these genes. In this review, we present our yearly update summarizing the genes associated with TAAD and the ensuing clinical implications for surgical intervention. Molecular genetics will continue to bolster this burgeoning catalog of culprit genes, enabling the provision of personalized aortic care.
Dirac fermions and possible weak antilocalization in LaCuSb2
Authors: Chamorro J. R. , Topp A. , Fang Y. , Winiarski M. J. , Ast C. R. , Krivenkov M. , Varykhalov A. , Ramshaw B. J. , Schoop L. M. , McQueen T. M.
Published: December 2019

Layered heavy-metal square-lattice compounds have recently emerged as potential Dirac fermion materials due to bonding within those sublattices. We report quantum transport and spectroscopic data on the layered Sb square-lattice material LaCuSb2. Linearly dispersing band crossings, necessary to generate Dirac fermions, are experimentally observed in the electronic band structure observed using angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, along with a quasi-two-dimensional Fermi surface. Weak antilocalization that arises from two-dimensional transport is observed in the magnetoresistance, as well as regions of linear dependence, both of which are indicative of topologically nontrivial effects. Measurements of the Shubnikov–de Haas quantum oscillations show low effective mass electrons on the order of 0.065me, further confirming the presence of Dirac fermions in this material.
High electrical conductivity in the epitaxial polar metals LaAuGe and LaPtSb
Authors: Du Dongxue , Lim Amber , Zhang Chenyu , Strohbeen Patrick J. , Shourov Estiaque H. , Rodolakis Fanny , McChesney Jessica L. , Voyles Paul , Fredrickson Daniel C. , Kawasaki Jason K.
Published: December 2019

Polar metals are an intriguing class of materials that simultaneously host free carriers and polar structural distortions. Despite the name “polar metal,” however, most well-studied polar metals are poor electrical conductors. Here, we demonstrate the molecular beam epitaxial growth of LaPtSb and LaAuGe, two polar metal compounds whose electrical resistivity is an order of magnitude lower than the well studied oxide polar metals. These materials belong to a broad family of ABC intermetallics adopting the stuffed wurtzite structure, also known as hexagonal Heusler compounds. Scanning transmission electron microscopy reveals a polar structure with unidirectionally buckled BC (PtSb and AuGe) planes. Magnetotransport measurements demonstrate good metallic behavior with low residual resistivity (ρLaAuGe = 59.05 μΩ cm and ρLaAPtSb = 27.81 μΩ cm at 2 K) and high carrier density (nh ∼ 1021 cm−3). Photoemission spectroscopy measurements confirm the band metallicity and are in quantitative agreement with density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Through DFT-chemical pressure and crystal orbital Hamilton population analyses, the atomic packing factor is found to support the polar buckling of the structure although the degree of direct interlayer B–C bonding is limited by repulsion at the A–C contacts. When combined with predicted ferroelectric hexagonal Heuslers, these materials provide a new platform for fully epitaxial, multiferroic heterostructures.
Carcass and meat quality of crossbreds of Thai indigenous chickens and Rhode Island Red layer chickens as compared with the purebreds and with broilers
Authors: Kaewkot C. , Ruangsuriya J. , Kreuzer M. , Jaturasitha S.
Published: December 2019

Context In order to maintain the availability of meat from indigenous chicken types in remote Asian regions with their special meat quality, novel ways of increasing efficiency are needed. One way could consist of crossbreeding with layer type chickens that are genetically quite distant from indigenous breeds. Aim The three hypotheses tested were as follows: that the meat quality of indigenous chickens differs from that of broilers; that the meat quality of male layer chickens resembles that of indigenous chickens rather than that of broilers; and that crossbreds of indigenous chickens and layer types overall are superior to the respective purebreds. Methods We studied carcass and meat quality of crossbreds of Thai indigenous Pradu Hang Dam (PD) and Rhode Island Red (RR) layers, and compared them with the corresponding purebreds and a commercial broiler type (Ross) in a complete randomised design. Chickens were reared in 4 × 5 pens with 10 chickens each for 120 days (Ross: 45 days). Key results The crossbreds were superior to PD and RR in body and carcass weight, as well as breast meat percentage, but in Ross the latter was 1.7 times higher. The Ross meat was lighter, more yellow and less red and had a higher intramuscular fat content and drip loss and a lower thawing loss and shear force than that of the three other types. Nucleotide content was either similar in all chicken types or lower in Ross meat. Ross meat was more susceptible to lipid oxidation than that of the three other types although the Ross muscles lipids contained less polyunsaturated fatty acids. Conclusion Considering the better carcass yield and breast meat proportion, crossbreeding of indigenous chickens with a layer breed likely is be economically advantageous. Implications Overall, fattening of crossbreds turned out to be a valid alternative to improve fattening systems and to preserve the specific meat quality of indigenous chickens.
Diversity and habitat segregation of mangrove grapsoid crabs along the west coast of the Malay Peninsula
Authors: Ribero Laura , Lim Phaik Eem , Ramli Rosli , Polgar Gianluca
Published: December 2019

South-East Asia is a biodiversity hot spot for several different animal and plant taxa, and grapsoid crabs are dominant components of its mangrove macrofauna. However, autecological traits of the species and assemblage structures are still largely undescribed. During the period 2012–14, we surveyed six mainland and insular mangrove sites along the west coast of the Malay Peninsula, four of which had not been investigated previously. Species composition differed among sites with different types of substrate and forest area. Small islands, characterised by coarser intertidal substrates, hosted remarkably different assemblages from mainland systems. Most of the species occurred in a small number of sites, suggesting stenotopic ecological traits or patchy distributions, and a marked variation in species composition and environmental conditions among sites was observed. This suggests that management actions assuming that this region’s coastal wetlands have comparable community compositions may likely lead to local extinctions of species, possibly affecting the regional biodiversity of these systems.
Pseudopregnancy and reproductive cycle synchronisation cannot be induced using conventional methods in the spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus)
Authors: Bellofiore Nadia , Ellery Stacey J. , Temple-Smith Peter , Evans Jemma
Published: December 2019

The menstruating spiny mouse is the first rodent identified to exhibit natural spontaneous decidualisation, cyclical endometrial shedding and regeneration. While the spiny mouse shares several primate-like characteristics in its reproductive biology, it has not been established whether pseudopregnancy can be induced or if its cycles can be synchronised as in non-human mammals. Here we describe attempts to induce pseudopregnancy and synchronisation of menstrual cycles (i.e. Whitten effect) in spiny mice. Virgin females (n=3–8 per group) underwent one of the following procedures to induce pseudopregnancy: daily vaginal lavage only (control), progesterone injection, mechanical stimulation of the cervix and sterile mating. A separate cohort was also exposed to male-soiled bedding to assess the Whitten effect. Pseudopregnancy was deemed successful if females presented with extended (>12 consecutive days) leukocytic vaginal cytology. No female from any method of induction met this criterion. In addition, the menstrual cycles of a group of six females could not be synchronised, nor immediate ovulation induced via exposure to male-soiled bedding. These responses indicate that the spiny mouse does not behave as a typical rodent. Like higher-order primates, the spiny mouse exhibits a relatively rare reproductive strategy, of failure to show pseudopregnancy or cyclical synchronisation. This is further endorsement of the use of this species as a versatile animal model for translational studies of menstruation and fertility.
Exceptional photocatalytic activity for Ag,Cr- SrTiO3 activated by H2O2 for removal of organic pollutants
Authors: Zhao Zhihuan , Zhang Xiao , Lei Yunyu , Yang Pengfei , Fan Jimin , Zhang Bing , Yin Shu
Published: December 2019

Ag,Cr-SrTiO3 nanocomposite was successfully prepared through the one-pot situ solvothermal method by using butyl titanate, CrCl3·6H2O and Sr(NO3)2 as raw materials. The obtained nanocomposites were characterized by x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy was used to investigate the optical properties and the results demonstrated the extension of spectral response from ultraviolet to visible light region. Compared with pure SrTiO3, Ag,Cr-SrTiO3 exhibited remarkable enhancement in adsorption and photocatalytic ability. More importantly, samples activated by H2O2 revealed extraordinary photocatalytic activity, which could remove 98.8% of MO within 60 min with 0.4 wt% Ag,Cr-SrTiO3. This work not only indicates that Ag,Cr-SrTiO3 is a desired photocatalytic material to degrade of organic pollutants under enlarging response range of solar light, but also shows that the addition of H2O2 can promote the photodegradation reaction.
Catalytic degradation of Acid Orange 7 in water by persulfate activated with CuFe2O4@RSDBC
Authors: Guan Kun , Zhou Peijiang , Zhang Junye , Zhu Longlong
Published: December 2019

In this study, a novel series of rectorite/sludge derived biochar (RSDBC) supporting CuFe2O4 (CuFe2O4@RSDBC) composites were prepared as an effective catalyst to active persulfate (PS) for the removal of Acid Orange 7 (AO7) in water. The character of catalyst was analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and x-ray diffraction (XRD). Various influencing factors including initial pH, PS concentration, catalyst dosage, initial dye concentration and reaction temperature were investigated. The optimal reaction conditions were found to be: PS concentration 2 mM; catalyst dosage 0.6 g l−1; initial pH value 7.0 and 25 °C of reaction temperature. Further radical quenching tests were performed by using ethanol, tert-butanol (TBA) and benzoquinone (BQ), which confirmed that sulfate radicals (

SO

4

·
−

) and hydroxyl radicals (HO•−) were the reactive species in the degradation process. The Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was employed to determine the intermediate products and a plausible degradation pathway is proposed. In addition, the CuFe2O4@RSDBC sample exhibited high color removal ability (95%) and stable performance after three successive runs. At last, the catalyst proved a good removal effect for actual dye wastewater. These results indicate that CuFe2O4@RSDBC hybrids could be as effective catalysts for PS activation on dye pollutants elimination.
Effects of Sr addition on microstructures and mechanical properties of Mg-1Zn-1Ca-xSr alloys
Authors: Geng-Yi Dong , Gui-Ying Sha , Teng Liu , Chong Zhang
Published: December 2019

The Sr-containing magnesium alloys have unique characteristics and demonstrate potentials to broaden the application of magnesium alloys. The microstructures and room temperature tensile properties of the as-cast Mg-1Zn-1Ca-xSr (x = 0.1, 0.5, 1.5, 2.5 weight%) alloys were investigated in this study. The results indicated that the grains of the Sr-containing alloys were gradually refined and the quantity of second phases was obviously increased with increasing the Sr content. In addition, the phase constituents of the alloys were found to be α-Mg, Mg2Ca, Mg6Ca2Zn3 and Mg17Sr2. The tensile results at room temperature showed that the tensile strength and elongation increased for low Sr-content alloys, but didn’t change or even decreased a little for high Sr-content alloys. The yield strength changed little with increasing Sr content. The alloy with 0.1% Sr exhibited the best comprehensive properties, with yield strength of 65.69 MPa, tensile strength of 118.23 MPa and elongation of 2.45%. Fracture analysis showed that the fracture mode of the alloys was mainly quasi-cleavage mechanism.
Surface remelting treatment of 7075 aluminum alloy—microstructural and technological aspects
Authors: Iwaszko Józef , Kudła Krzysztof
Published: December 2019

7075 aluminum alloy in the T6 state was subjected to surface remelting treatment using Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW). The changes in the material microstructure were examined by means of light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and EDS. Moreover, profilometric tests and comparative measurements of material hardness in the state before and after the treatment were conducted. In the remelted layer strong microstructure refinement and the disappearance of microstructure banding were found. A fine dendritic microstructure was dominant in the remelted zone. Use of the GTAW method reduced the number of intermetallic precipitates in the surface layer. A consequence of dissolving the precipitates was a decrease in the hardness of the material in relation to the hardness before the modification. All the samples were characterized by the presence of a remelted zone, a narrow partially remelted zone and a wide heat affected zone. With an increase in the heat source travel speed, and consequently less heat entering the remelted material, the dimensions of the individual zones decreased. The conducted research showed that GTAW technology can be used in the surface remelting treatment of aluminum alloys and can be a competitive solution in comparison to other technologies.
Effect of calcium phosphate synthesis conditions on its physico-chemical properties and evaluation of its antibacterial activity
Authors: Souad Guerfi , Baghdadi Chouial
Published: December 2019

The antibacterial activity of non-stoichiometric calcium phosphate particles prepared by precipitation under controlled experimental conditions at pH ∼ 9 and sintered at high temperature was studied against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. The effects of operating parameters developed according to an experimental design of Plackett-Burman type on the physicochemical characteristics and the capacity to inhibit bacterial growth were identified using a thermal analysis (TGA-DTA-DSC), x-ray Diffraction (XR), Raman Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and the Kirby Bauer Method. The XRD spectrum shows that the synthetic crystalline nanoparticles powders consist of multiphasic calcium phosphate β-TCP/β-CPP/OCP/HA and that the average particle size is between 56 and 123 nm calculated by the Debay-Shearer equation. The Raman spectrum of sintered powder shows the main absorption bands that are assigned to the asymmetric / symmetric P-O stretching vibrations in PO4
−3 and the symmetric O-H stretching mode of the hydroxyl group in addition of Ca-PO4 and Ca-OH modes. The samples were found to possess different morphologies consisting of nano-rods of different lengths, semi / spherical structures and fine granules, in addition to irregular clusters. The antibacterial tests results showed that the high concentration calcium phosphate powder exhibited better antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria with inhibition zones ranging from 0.2–0.7 cm.
Facile preparation of flexible and highly stable graphene oxide-silver nanowire hybrid transparent conductive electrode
Authors: Zhang Yan , Bai Shengchi , Chen Tianrui , Yang Hui , Guo Xingzhong
Published: December 2019

The flexible and highly stable graphene oxide (GO)/silver nanowires (AgNWs) hybrid transparent conductive electrode (TCE) was fabricated by coating AgNWs and GO inks on the surface of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) using a Meyer rod. The as-prepared GO/AgNWs hybrid TCE with a GO concentration of 0.75 mg·ml−1 exhibits excellent optoelectronic performances with a sheet resistance of 25 Ω·sq−1, a transmittance of 87.6% at 550 nm, and a lower surface roughness with a root mean square (RMS) roughness value of 4.86 nm. The existence of protective GO layer endows excellent thermal oxidation resistance and outperforming mechanical stabilities for GO/AgNWs hybrid TCE even at the conditions of temperature 80 °C, relative humidity (RH) 75% for 16 days, at room temperature in ambient air for 3 months, and mechanical bending of 2200 times, respectively. The GO/AgNWs hybrid TCE is a promising candidate for ITO used in optical devices such as organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), solar cells and flat panel displays.
Gases of driving methane out of a carbon nanotube
Authors: Meng Xianwen , Shen Ling
Published: December 2019

Methane is a kind of clean energy resource. Driving methane molecules out of a nanochannel efficiently is helpful to increase mining efficiency. Injecting other gas molecules is an ideal method to increase methane production. By molecular dynamics simulation, we take the adsorption behaviors of methane (CH4) and nitrogen (N2) mixture in a carbon nanotube for example. Compared with nitrogen (N2), methane (CH4) obtains an advantage on adsorption in a carbon nanotube when methane concentration changes from 0.1 to 0.9. By changing the parameters of ε and σ, we find two parameters can regulate the adsorption behaviors of methane in a carbon nanotube. The probability of driving CH4 molecules out of a carbon nanotube increases with increasing the parameter of ε at the same σ, while the probability of driving CH4 out of a carbon nanotube increases at first and then decreases with increasing σ at the same ε. We expect the results could guide the process of methane production efficiently in a physical view.
Infinitesimal Chow dilogarithm
Authors: Ünver Si̇nan
Published: December 2019

LetC2C_{2}be a smooth and projective curve over the ring of dual numbers of a fieldk.k.Given non-zero rational functionsf,g,f,g,andhhonC2,C_{2},we define an invariantρ(f∧g∧h)∈k.\rho (f\wedge g \wedge h) \in k.This is an analog of the real analytic Chow dilogarithm and the extension to non-linear cycles of the additive dilogarithm of [Algebra Number Theory 3 (2009), pp. 1–34]. Using this construction we state and prove an infinitesimal version of the strong reciprocity conjecture of Goncharov [J. Amer. Math. Soc. 18 (2005), pp. 1–60] with an explicit formula for the homotopy map. Also usingρ,\rho ,we define an infinitesimal regulator on algebraic cycles of weight two which generalizes Park’s construction in the case of cycles with modulus [Amer. J. Math. 131 (2009), pp. 257–276].
SAMMI: a semi-automated tool for the visualization of metabolic networks
Authors: Schultz Andre , Akbani Rehan
Published: December 2019

Here we present a browser-based Semi-Automated Metabolic Map Illustrator (SAMMI) for the visualization of metabolic networks. While automated features allow for easy network partitioning, navigation, and node positioning, SAMMI also offers a wide array of manual map editing features. This combination allows for fast, context-specific visualization of metabolic networks as well as the development of standardized, large-scale, visually appealing maps. The implementation of SAMMI with popular constraint-based modeling toolboxes also allows for effortless visualization of simulation results of genome-scale metabolic models.

Availability and implementation

SAMMI has been implemented as a standalone web-based tool and as plug-ins for the COBRA and COBRApy toolboxes. SAMMI and its COBRA plugins are available under the GPL 3.0 license and are available along with documentation, tutorials, and source code at www.SammiTool.com.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Diagnosis and management of cold urticaria in cryoablation of atrial fibrillation: a case report
Authors: Cordes Friederike , Ellermann Christian , Ehrchen Jan , Ullerich Hansjoerg , Eckardt Lars
Published: December 2019

Background

Cold-induced urticaria is triggered by exposure to local or environmental cold and manifests as localized or systemic pruritic papules, sometimes accompanied by angio-oedema and anaphylaxis representing a life-threatening condition. Therapy options of atrial fibrillation (AF) include catheter ablation with different energy sources, of which cryoenergy may be superior to other energy sources regarding safety and efficacy.

Case summary

We report the case of a 60-year-old man suffering from symptomatic paroxysmal AF. The patient had a history of cold-induced urticaria without occurrence of systemic reactions to date. After successful pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) using cryoenergy, post-interventional oesophagogastroduodenoscopy and endosonography revealed newly occurred oedema in the middle oesophagus with inclusion of all oesophageal wall layers. Due to missing peri-atrial lesions, activation of cold urticaria during cryoablation rather than procedure-associated alterations was diagnosed. The patient reported no systemic or gastrointestinal symptoms after PVI.

Discussion

We could demonstrate that cold urticaria can manifest as oesophageal angio-oedema in AF patients undergoing cryoablation. Therefore, these patients should be carefully considered for an alternative energy source for PVI or premedication with antihistamines when using cryoenergy.
Image detection method of drill cuttings
Authors: Guo Long , Qian Jing , Si Jiangping , Yao Shuxin
Published: December 2019

With the development of digital core technology, numerical simulation experiments have been used by oilfield geologists and geophysicists in rock physics research. However, conducting numerical experiments, such as fluid mechanic simulations, in uncored parts of wells for unavailable digital models to calculate permeability is still impossible. The algorithm filters a large number of Computed Tomography (CT) scanned cutting images and detects whether they can be used to construct a digital core model. This workflow can be applied when coring fails or is too costly. It also provides as much continuous sample data as possible. Conventional methods of acquiring digital cores require coring after drilling and waiting for several months. The method we present here is the innovation of acquiring digital cores in drilling based on a fast CT scanner for a well site. In the future, obtaining petrophysical parameters in uncored strata may be necessary during drilling time. When sandstone is crushed into debris, most of its matrix grains are usually not destroyed. Instead, they are dispersed in the cuttings as loose sand grains. Some original sandstone grains are well connected by cement, and thus may be kept intact as agglomerated grains. These agglomerated grains are selected by collecting a large number of scanned slices. The artificially broken core samples are used for machine learning, and these training models are subsequently used to determine whether the scanned image can be extracted to unspoiled and cemented grains.
Best practice guidelines for arthroscopic intervention in femoroacetabular impingement syndrome: results from an International Delphi Consensus Project—Phase 1
Authors: Radha Sarkhell , Hutt Jonathan , Lall Ajay , Domb Benjamin , Lynch T Sean , Griffin Damian , Field Richard E , Chuck-Cakic Josip
Published: December 2019

Arthroscopic procedures to treat hip pathologies such as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome are now established in mainstream orthopaedic practice. Surgical techniques, rehabilitation protocols and outcomes are widely published. However, consensus on standards of practice remains to be determined. The International Hip Preservation Society (ISHA) has undertaken a research study to identify current areas of consensus across the global hip preservation community. The study focussed on consensus statements on the operative steps in the arthroscopic treatment of FAI syndrome. The study methodology was an online Delphi consensus method to collect aggregate opinions from hip preservation surgeons worldwide. Phase 1 of the planned three-phase study is presented here—focusing on consensus statements on the operative steps in the arthroscopic treatment of FAI syndrome. Ninety-nine statements achieved >80% consensus from a panel of 165 surgeons from six continents. This study is the first to evaluate global consensus on the arthroscopic treatment of FAI syndrome, as well as highlighting areas of contention and avenues for future research.
Financing Da'esh with Sexual Slavery: A Case Study in Not Gendering Conflict Analysis and Intervention
Authors: Hutchinson Susan
Published: December 2019

It is common for the international community to restrict financial flows to terrorist groups as part of efforts to combat terrorism. However, this strategy was less effective with Da'esh because they were a largely financially self-sustaining organization. Analysis of the caliphate's economy and any external funding streams was not gendered. Had analysts understood Da'esh through a gendered lens they could have identified a route toward restricting income. It was known that approximately 7,000 Yazidi women and girls were held in sexual servitude at the height of the caliphate. Because little to no effort was made to account for these women in the battles for Raqqa or Mosul and military operations did not include freeing such slaves, the Yazidi community was left with no choice but to try to buy back their loved ones. This market in sexual slavery may have injected as much as US$21 million into the Da'esh economy, and buying back the remaining captives could provide Da'esh with up to US$90 million more. Had international security operations accounted for those in captivity and freed them as part of the war against Da'esh, it could have reduced this revenue stream. This article calculates the monetary value of Da'esh's market in sexual slavery as a means of demonstrating the effect of not gendering conflict analysis and intervention in the war against Da'esh.
Mechanical Circulatory Support in Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Ishizawar David
Published: December 2019

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a heterogeneous group of diagnoses including pulmonary vascular disease, left-sided heart failure, lung disease, and thromboembolic disease. Regardless of the cause, PH is often associated with increased morbidity and mortality. In systolic heart failure, the development of irreversible PH precludes cardiac transplantation because the risk of allograft right-ventricular failure and death is increased. In these cases, left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) can provide circulatory support and the potential to reverse PH. This chapter discusses the WHO classifications of PH and the associated diagnoses, mechanisms, and medical and surgical treatments for PH. It also discusses the strategies for reversing PH, the indications for selecting patients with PH for heart transplantation, and how exposure of the donor heart to elevated pulmonary pressures can affect the recipient. In many of these challenging patients, mechanical circulatory support as a bridge to candidacy has permitted successful cardiac transplantation.
The ReliantHeart aVAD©
Authors: Lynch Bryan E.
Published: December 2019

The ReliantHeart aVAD© is a new intraventricular axial flow pump with pumping components that fit within the inflow cannula of the ventricular assist device (VAD). The aVAD© is an improvement over its predecessor, the extra-ventricular HeartAssist5 (HA5)™. The pumping components, inflow guide vane, impeller, and diffuser of the aVAD© are identical to those in the HA5, which in turn were derived from the original collaboration between Baylor College of Medicine and NASA. The current device provides excellent physiologic support for patients in end-stage heart failure and provides advanced ultrasonic flow measurements and performance data for wireless remote monitoring. In 2011 and 2012, the aVAD© was used successfully in calf studies as an artificial heart, with each ventricle being replaced by a modified HA5 VAD©. The two predecessor aVADs© were placed vertically, side by side, which provided a more compact total artificial heart with formable outflow graft protectors directed to the aorta and pulmonary artery. An ultrasonic flow probe accurately measures flow under all conditions, even in implants in place for years. The probe indicates flow in the range of –4 to +10 L/min with >95% accuracy. The probe can determine the relative contributions of the LVAD and native heart to adequate blood flow. The aVAD© meets the safety standards of the European Union and is sold in Europe. The aVAD is not yet available in the United States but is being tested under an FDA investigational device exemption.
Counterpulsation Circulatory Assist Devices
Authors: Salabat Reza , Jeevanandam Valluvan
Published: December 2019

An increasing number of patients with heart failure need advanced therapy. Heart transplantation remains the definitive long-term treatment, but its use is limited by the low number of donor hearts. This limitation has led to the development of mechanical circulatory support devices that assist cardiac function by direct blood pumping (e.g. ventricular assist devices) and counterpulsation (e.g. the intra-aortic balloon pump). Ventricular assist devices provide long-term treatment for heart failure but are associated with potentially severe complications, such as driveline infection, stroke, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Counterpulsation improves cardiac function by augmenting diastole and reducing afterload, which increases coronary perfusion and decreases cardiac workload. Since the concept was introduced in 1960s, several devices have been used in humans. The intra-aortic balloon pump, a counterpulsation device, is the most commonly used device for short-term support as a bridge to transplant or recovery. A minimally invasive counterpulsation device, such as an intravascular ventricular assist system that allows ambulation, could potentially offer versatile solutions for long-term heart failure therapy or as a bridge to transplant or to recovery. The intravascular ventricular assist system has fewer complications and avoids the need for sternotomy or thoracotomy.
The Tandem: Life System
Authors: Ramzy Danny , Chung Joshua
Published: December 2019

The Tandem Life series of support devices offers short-term mechanical circulatory support for patients with cardiopulmonary failure. The system provides options for left ventricular, right ventricular support, or both, as well as adaptation of a membrane oxygenator for extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). This chapter outlines the indications for use, insertion techniques, and outcomes for the Tandem Heart, Tandem Lung, and Protek Duo platforms. Although limited published data exist for these technologies, experience is rapidly growing. The technology has allowed for patients to be fully ambulatory during time of support. The authors provide the perspective of one of the largest implanting centers internationally.
Implantation of Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices via Sternotomy Technical Considerations
Authors: Shaffer Andrew , John Ranjit
Published: December 2019

Meticulous attention to detail at the time of surgical implantation can have a significant impact on postoperative outcomes. This chapter describes the authors’ technique for optimal LVAD insertion, along with a brief discussion on some of the concomitant procedures that are frequently required.
Providing Mechanical Support to Children Size and Anatomical Considerations
Authors: Riggs Kyle W. , Morales David L. S.
Published: December 2019

Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) in children has changed greatly during the past two decades. Historically, extracorporeal membranous oxygenation was the only mechanical support option for children. The introduction and widespread use of the Berlin Heart EXCOR pump—a pulsatile, pneumatic compression device still commonly used in small children—allowed the use of ventricular assist devices (VAD). This chapter describes the leading MCS options in small children with complex pathology and reviews the evolution of cannulation strategies for long-term support. It describes an advanced imaging technique that allows devices to be “virtually fit” to patients before implantation, a technology that may increase the number of eligible patients receiving devices thought to be too large by body surface area alone. Although body imaging is required, virtual fit will supplant the antiquated use of weight and body surface area in planning complicated implantations. Finally, the chapter presents MCS management strategies for different congenital anomalies, such as single-ventricle pathology and arterial transpositions.