bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nature of ductile shear banding under shock loading
Authors: Zhao Feng
Published: March 2021

Under shock loading, the plastic flow of polycrystalline material tends to localise into shear bands. As shear bands form, most materials dramatically lose their strain hardening property and quickly fail. Here, we present the experimental and microstructural evidence of a new shear banding mode–ductile shear band, in magnesium alloy at high temperature under shock loading. The results show that magnesium alloy could exhibit high strength and good plasticity even after ductile shear bands occurred and contributes to improve understanding of the strain rate‐dependent of failure modes in magnesium alloy.
Improving Ag‐TiO2nanocomposites’ current density by TiCl4 pretreated on FTO glass for dye‐sensitised solar cells
Authors: Lokman Muhammad Quisar , Shaban Suraya , Shafie Suhaidi , Ahmad Fauzan , Yahaya Hafizal , Rosnan Rizuan Mohd , Ibrahim Mohd Adib
Published: March 2021

Titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4) pretreatment on the fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO) is one of the alternative techniques to enhance short‐circuit current density (Jsc) and efficiency of dye‐sensitised solar cells (DSSC) by improving the inter‐particle bonding between FTO grain and nanoporous titanium dioxide (TiO2). The present study investigbrkates the effect of TiCl4 pretreatment on the surface of FTO glass to enhance the Jsc and efficiency of silver‐titanium dioxide (Ag‐TiO2) nanocomposites. The pretreatment process was prepared by immersing FTO glass into TiCl4 solution at 70°C for 30 min, and then sintered at 500°C for 30 min. Morphological and elemental characteristics were done to observe the structure and composition of pretreatment on the FTO glass. The results showed that the Ag‐TiO2 with TiCl4 pretreatment achieved high efficiency of 7.27% with Jsc of 18.95 mA/cm2. The proposed method shows that the pretreatment can improve the efficiency by improving the inter‐particle bonding between nanoporous TiO2 and FTO grain, which can enhance the electron transfer. Also, the presence of Ag in the nanocomposites as a solar concentrator can increase the light absorption by TiO2 nanoparticles and also increase the DSSC efficiency.
Generation of second harmonic component of fault current in a doubly‐fed induction generator and mitigation measures for transformer protection
Authors: Zheng Tao , Yan Jingxian , Li Jing , Wang Xingguo , Zhao Hongcheng , Wang Sirui
Published: March 2021

The transient characteristics of short‐circuit current (SCC) in doubly‐fed induction generator (DFIG) are quite different from the widely researched conventional synchronous machines. However, the second harmonic characteristics of SCC that impact the reliability of the transformer protection have not been accurately analysed. This paper presents the generation mechanism of second harmonic SCC in DFIG by deducing the dynamic response of rotor‐side converter, with particular attention to the influences of the voltage drop, harmonic component of stator voltage, frequency coupling, and deviation of the phase‐locked loop. When grid fault occurs, the terminal voltage sag leads to fluctuations in the active power, then the response of converter to power fluctuation and the frequency coupling leads to the second harmonic current in the abc reference frame. And the second harmonic current injected into the grid leads to fluctuations in the voltage disturbance term and deviation of the phase‐locked loop, which, in turn, affects the second harmonic current. Based on the analysis, the mitigation measures for the second harmonic current are proposed. Simulations are implemented to verify the theoretical analysis.
Inverter harmonic perturbations rejection in renewable energy conversion systems applying a super‐twisting algorithm
Authors: Memije Daniel , Carranza Oscar , Rodríguez Jaime J. , Ortega Rubén , Peralta Edgar
Published: March 2021

Grid background and dead‐time harmonic perturbations pose challenges in maintaining power quality and stability in the grid integration of renewable energy conversion systems. Therefore, a super‐twisting algorithm with the ability to reject harmonic perturbations on three‐phase grid‐tied inverters is proposed. The algorithm design is related to dead‐time and grid background harmonics so that robust performance is achieved under these perturbations. To highlight the advantages of the proposed algorithm, it is compared against proportional‐integral (PI) control in several dead‐time and grid background harmonic sweeps. The maximum inverter current distortion obtained with PI control in simulation is 15.53%. However, by using the proposed algorithm instead, the maximum current distortion is reduced to 1.8%. Dead‐time is experimentally swept by using a permanent magnet motor as a harmonic‐free grid. Experimental results of grid background harmonics are obtained by injecting reactive energy into a grid with 2.19% voltage distortion. When PI control is used in the experimental setup, the maximum inverter current distortion obtained is 11.4%. However, with the proposed algorithm, the maximum current distortion is reduced to 1.5%, which complies with the standard IEEE 1547‐2018.
Non stationary‐ARMA flicker model for squirrel cage induction generators based wind farms
Authors: Samet Haidar , Ketabipour Saeedeh , Bagheri Ali Asghar
Published: March 2021

Time varying nature of the wind power is studied previously considering different time intervals from seconds to days. However for power quality problems such as flicker, a model which considers the extremely fast variations is essential. Here by using large number of actual records, a time‐varying model is proposed which considers the extremely short‐time variations of wind active and reactive powers. The wind farm is modelled as a current source with time varying amplitude and phase which change every 0.01 s. Autoregressive moving‐average (ARMA) models are utilized to model the variations and ARMA coefficients are calculated for every record. Same to the actual behaviour, the proposed model is non‐stationary as the ARMA order and coefficients are different at every run of the model. The proposed model is confirmed through utilizing several applications which need the power time series with extremely short sampling intervals. The following studies are performed by using the actual data and then the proposed model: power spectral density of active and reactive power variations, instantaneous flicker, short term flicker (Pst), estimating the Pst using the maximum value of the instantaneous flicker, estimation of cumulative Pst for multiple wind turbines, and the impact of SVC on flicker mitigation.
Export cable rating optimisation by wind power ramp and thermal risk estimation
Authors: Hernandez Colin Maria A. , Dix Justin , Pilgrim James
Published: March 2021

This paper demonstrates the impact of using realistic wind power generation profiles, time‐varying ocean bottom temperatures and hypothetical wind farm over‐planting scenarios on export cable capacity optimisation. Given the inherent risk in over‐planting, a novel hour ahead thermal risk estimation method was developed to foresee and mitigate cable temperature exceedance, employing a preventive curtailment. Two offshore wind farm locations L1(North‐west European Shelf) and L2(Australian Shelf) have been chosen for testing but utilising real wind and ocean bottom temperature data. These simulated results demonstrate a 10% rating increment over the static rating in L1 resulted in a 13% increment in the amount of energy delivered over a year (MWh/year) without any risk or instances of thermal overheating. Similarly, a 9.8% rating increment in L2 resulted in a 13.6% increment in annual energy transmission (MWh/year). The financial increment for both over‐planting scenarios was approximately 9 million/year for the studied cases.
Current indicator based fault detection algorithm for identification of faulty string in solar PV system
Authors: Chandrasekharan Sowthily , Subramaniam Senthil Kumar , Natarajan Babu
Published: March 2021

The maximum power generation in the solar photovoltaic (PV) array is reduced due to the abnormal conditions such as module mismatch, string faults and damage of the PV modules, which reduces the efficiency and reliability of the system. Conventional protection devices fail to detect the faults, which leads to protection issues and fire threats in the PV plants. This paper proposes a new fault detection algorithm to identify the faults in the PV array and the PV string. A simple analysis is developed for fault detection under different fault conditions, such as line–line (L‐L) fault, line–ground (L‐G) fault and short‐circuit fault with multiple strings, and the values of their current indicator and threshold are predetermined. Based on these values, the proposed fault detection algorithm identifies the fault in the PV array and the PV string, with a reduced number of current sensing devices. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is tested and verified through MATLAB simulation and experimentation under various operating conditions of the solar PV plant.
Frequency control in hybrid distributed power systems via type‐2 fuzzy PID controller
Authors: Kumar Khadanga Rajendra , Kumar Amit , Panda Sidhartha
Published: March 2021

In this research article, a novel approach is proposed by considering a modified equilibrium optimization (MEO) algorithm based “interval type‐2 fuzzy proportional integral derivative (IT2FPID) controller” for the load frequency control of the multi‐area hybrid power system. The performance of the modified algorithm is tested by comparing it with the standard EO algorithm considering various standard benchmark test functions. Further, the efficacy of the MEO algorithm is tried by planning an IT2FPID controller for frequency regulation of the said hybrid system. The supremacy of the MEO‐based IT2FPID controller is introduced by comparing its outcomes with MEO‐based T1FPID structure, MEO‐based conventional PID and EO‐based PID controller techniques. It is observed that the MEO‐based IT2FPID controller is more effective compared to others.
A modular multilevel DC‐DC converter with self‐energy equalization for DC grids
Authors: Elserougi Ahmed , Abdelsalam Ibrahim , Massoud Ahmed , Ahmed Shehab
Published: March 2021

Medium‐/High Voltage DC grids are interesting for the integration of renewable energy sources. DC‐DC conversion systems are highly needed for the development of DC grids. Recently, Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC) is the most promising technology for medium‐/high‐voltage applications, but employing the conventional MMC with DC output voltage leads to diversion in the Submodule (SM) capacitor voltages, that is energy drift. This paper proposes a modified modular multilevel DC‐DC converter with self‐energy equalization, which ensures successful DC‐DC conversion with balanced capacitors voltages. In the modified topology, clamping Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBTs) are employed in each arm to enable parallel‐connection of the capacitors in the same arm. During the operation (equalization period), the parallel‐connected upper capacitors are connected to the parallel‐connected lower capacitors in each leg through a small limiting inductor to transfer energy between the arms to ensure balanced capacitor voltages. The proposed configuration, along with the operational concepts, mathematical analysis, and design, are presented. Finally, simulation and experimental results are presented for validation.
Coordinated flexible energy and self‐healing management according to the multi‐agent system‐based restoration scheme in active distribution network
Authors: Bagherzadeh Leila , Shayeghi Hossein , Pirouzi Sasan , Shafie‐khah Miadreza , Catalão João P. S.
Published: March 2021

This study presents the optimal model of the coordinated flexible energy and self‐healing management (C‐FE&SH‐M) in the active distribution network (ADN) including renewable energy sources (RESs), electric vehicles (EVs) and demand response program (DRP).The flexible energy management (FEM) is extracted using coordination between the RESs, EVs and DRP. The self‐healing method (SHM) is related to multi‐agent system‐based restoration process (MAS‐based RP) that finds the optimal restoration pattern at the fault condition according to the different zone agents (ZAs) distributing along with the network. This method minimizes the difference between energy cost and flexibility benefit related to the FEM part and difference between the number of switching operation and priority loads restored based on the SHM part. Also, this problem subjects to power flow equations, RESs and active loads constraints, restoration process formulation and system operation limits. Stochastic programming is used to model the uncertainty of loads, energy prices, RESs and EVs. Hereupon, the suggested strategy is implemented on the 33‐bus radial distribution network and it is solved by the crow search algorithm (CSA). Ultimately, the obtained results imply the high flexibility and security of the operation, incorporating the proposed strategy, and delineate the optimal restoration scheme for the ADN.
An insulator inspection method based on deep learning applicable to multi‐scale and occlusion conditions
Authors: Wu Junpeng , Tang Shaobo , Li Xianglei
Published: March 2021

As an important equipment of power system, the insulator's normal operation is the basis to ensure the safe operation of the power system. The insulator positioning and identification technology based on machine vision can quickly and accurately complete the inspection of insulators on site and effectively save the cost of operation and maintenance. This paper proposes an insulator inspection method based on region‐convolutional neural networks (RCNNs). First, the dataset of the insulator image is preprocessed by means of data expansion. Then, the feature extraction of the insulator image is realised by using the zeiler fergus (ZF) network. The k‐means clustering method is used to optimise the selection of anchor points. Meanwhile, the non‐maximum suppression post‐processing algorithm is improved, and a non‐linear penalty factor is introduced to adapt to multi‐scale and overlapping occlusion insulator inspection. Experimental results show that the improved faster RCNNs insulator inspection method can accurately obtain the coordinate frame and the corresponding probability value of the insulator object and improve the average precision by 10.43%, achieving the accurate inspection of the insulator object.
Fragmentation in the massive G31.41+0.31 protocluster
Authors: Beltrán M. T. , Rivilla V. M. , Cesaroni R. , Maud L. T. , Galli D. , Moscadelli L. , Lorenzani A. , Ahmadi A. , Beuther H. , Csengeri T. , Etoka S. , Goddi C. , Klaassen P. D. , Kuiper R. , Kumar M. S. N. , Peters T. , Sánchez-Monge Á. , Schilke P. , van der Tak F. , Vig S. , Zinnecker H.
Published: March 2021

Context. ALMA observations at 1.4 mm and ~0.′′2 (~750 au) angular resolution of the Main core in the high-mass star-forming region G31.41+0.31 have revealed a puzzling scenario. On the one hand, the continuum emission looks very homogeneous and the core appears to undergo solid-body rotation, suggesting a monolithic core stabilized by the magnetic field; on the other hand, rotation and infall speed up toward the core center, where two massive embedded free-free continuum sources have been detected, pointing to an unstable core having undergone fragmentation.

Aims. To establish whether the Main core is indeed monolithic or if its homogeneous appearance is due to a combination of large dust opacity and low angular resolution, we carried out millimeter observations at higher angular resolution and different wavelengths.

Methods. We carried out ALMA observations at 1.4 mm and 3.5 mm that achieved angular resolutions of ~0.′′1 (~375 au) and ~0.′′075 (~280 au), respectively. VLA observations at 7 mm and 1.3 cm at even higher angular resolution, ~0.′′05 (~190 au) and ~0.′′07 (~260 au), respectively, were also carried out to better study the nature of the free-free continuum sources detected in the core.

Results. The millimeter continuum emission of the Main core has been clearly resolved into at least four sources, A, B, C, and D, within 1″, indicating that the core is not monolithic. The deconvolved radii of the dust emission of the sources, estimated at 3.5 mm, are ~400–500 au; their masses range from ~15 to ~26 M⊙; and their number densities are several 109 cm−3. Sources A and B, located closer to the center of the core and separated by ~750 au, are clearly associated with two free-free continuum sources, likely thermal radio jets, and are brightest in the core. The spectral energy distribution of these two sources and their masses and sizes are similar and suggest a common origin. Source C has not been detected at centimeter wavelengths, while source D has been clearly detected at 1.3 cm. Source D is likely the driving source of an E–W SiO outflow previously detected in the region, which suggests that the free-free emission might be coming from a radio jet.

Conclusions. The observations have confirmed that the Main core in G31 is collapsing, that it has undergone fragmentation, and that its homogeneous appearance previously observed at short wavelengths is a consequence of both high dust opacity and insufficient angular resolution. The low level of fragmentation together with the fact that the core is moderately magnetically supercritical, suggests that G31 could have undergone a phase of magnetically regulated evolution characterized by a reduced fragmentation efficiency, eventually leading to the formation of a small number of relatively massive dense cores.
Bar pattern speeds in CALIFA galaxies
Authors: Cuomo Virginia , Hee Lee Yun , Buttitta Chiara , Aguerri J. Alfonso L. , Maria Corsini Enrico , Morelli Lorenzo
Published: March 2021

Context. More than 10% of barred galaxies with a direct measurement of the bar pattern speed host an ultrafast bar. These bars extend well beyond the corotation radius and challenge our understanding of the orbital structure of barred galaxies. Most of the bars are found in spiral galaxies, rather than in lenticular galaxies.

Aims. We analyse the properties of the ultrafast bars detected in the Calar Alto Legacy Integral Field Spectroscopy Area Survey to investigate whether they are an artefact resulting from an overestimation of the bar radius and/or an underestimation of the corotation radius or a new class of bars, whose orbital structure has not been understood yet.

Methods. We revised the available measurements of the bar radius based on ellipse fitting and Fourier analysis and of the bar pattern speed from the Tremaine-Weinberg method. In addition, we measured the bar radius from the analysis of the maps tracing the transverse-to-radial force ratio, which we obtained from the deprojected i-band images of the galaxies retrieved from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey.

Results. We found that nearly all the sample galaxies are spirals with an inner ring or pseudo-ring circling the bar and/or with strong spiral arms, which hamper the measurement of the bar radius from the ellipse fitting and Fourier analysis. According to these methods, the bar ends overlap with the ring or the spiral arms, thereby making the adopted bar radius unreliable. On the contrary, the bar radius from the ratio maps are shorter than the corotation radius. This agrees with the theoretical predictions and findings of numerical simulations regarding the extension and stability of the stellar orbits supporting the bars.

Conclusions. We conclude that ultrafast bars are no longer observed when the correct measurement of the bar radius is adopted. Deriving the bar radius in galaxies with rings and strong spiral arms is not straightforward and a solid measurement method based on both photometric and kinematic data is still missing.
Non-thermal escape on Triton driven by atmospheric and ionospheric chemistry
Authors: Gu H. , Cui J. , Niu D.-D. , Wu X.-S. , He F. , Wei Y.
Published: March 2021

Context. Jeans escape is believed to dominate atmospheric escape for most outer Solar System bodies. However, non-thermal mechanisms, particularly atmospheric and ionospheric chemistry, are likely to contribute substantially to neutral escape on Triton.

Aims. This study is devoted to evaluating the role of the chemically induced escape of H, H2, C, N, O, N2, and CO on Triton via a variety of processes. Here, we also aim to identify the dominant processes for these species.

Methods. We used the background atmospheric and ionospheric structures from available model calculations. We constructed a test particle Monte Carlo model to determine the escape probability profiles of various species released from 35 channels. Species-dependent and energy-dependent cross sections were adopted in our calculations, along with a strongly forward-scattering angle distribution, all constrained by the available laboratory measurements.

Results. The chemical escape rates on Triton are derived as 4.5 × 1024 s−1 for total H, 6.9 × 1022 s−1 for total C, 8.0 × 1024 s−1 for total N, and 1.4 × 1023 s−1 for total O.

Conclusions. Based on a comparison with the respective Jeans escape rates, our calculations indicate that atmospheric and ionospheric chemistry make small but non-negligible contributions to both H and C escape on Triton, whereas its contributions to N and O escape are significant.
On the influence of the air flow resistivity on the measurement of the dynamic stiffness of underlays for floating floors
Authors: Schmelzer Martin , Wittstock Volker , Bietz Heinrich , Brezas Spyros
Published: March 2021

The dynamic stiffness of underlays is a required quantity to predict the reduction of impact and airborne noise transmitted through floating floors. The measurement of the dynamic stiffness is standardized in ISO 9052–1 using a floating floor section of 200 mm edge length. If open pore insulating materials are used for the underlay, the air flow and its flow resistivity have a significant impact on the dynamic stiffness. The standard ISO 9052–1 therefore calculates the dynamic stiffness based on three distinct intervals of the flow resistivity. This contribution analyses and discusses the mathematical origin and practical consequences of these three standardized intervals and proposes an improvement for a revision of the standard. The current physical model is expanded to examine if the results, that are gained from the geometrically reduced systems of the standard, can be transferred to room sized systems.
Hardiness sensing for susceptibility using American Fuzzy Lop
Authors: Krishna Prakash R , Vasudevan I , Indhuja I , Thangarasan T , Krishnan C
Published: March 2021

American Fuzzy Lop is an automated software testing method to give unexceeded values, else random data’s as input to computer programs for testing the hardiness process. Existing fuzzing methods will come under carried based type. Pointing to test a certain input that covers a certain region of units to fit under retain part. Still, a susceptibility over a program space may not arrive paraded in all execution that occurs to see the certain program parts; just some program executions will go the location could disclose the susceptibility. In this paper, we introduced a unified fitness metric known as direct board, which can be used for American Fuzzy lop, and that is explicitly pointed toward exploring for test input that can disclose susceptibilities. To improvise the AFL, we have enhanced its methodology to produce a more effective quality fuzzing tool. This causes our method to notice buffer invade as well as the whole number invade susceptibilities. Enhanced AFL is tested with similar benchmark programs to compare it and adding an extension to it called AFLBLEND. By our method, many uncover susceptibility could be found with a given amount of time and faster than the AFL approach by 8%.
Block Mining reward prediction with Polynomial Regression, Long short-term memory, and Prophet API for Ethereum blockchain miners
Authors: Simon Jeyasheela Rakkini , Geetha K
Published: March 2021

The Ethereum blockchain is an open-source, decentralized blockchain with functions triggered by smart contract and has voluminous real-time data for analysis using machine learning and deep learning algorithms. Ether is the cryptocurrency of the Ethereum blockchain. Ethereum virtual machine is used to run Turing complete scripts. The data set concerning a block in the Ethereum blockchain with a block number, timestamp, crypto address of the miner, and the block rewards for the miner are explored for K means clustering for clustering miners with a unique crypto address and their rewards. Linear regression and polynomial regression are used for the prediction of the next block reward to the miner. The Long ShortTerm Memory (LSTM) algorithm is used to exploit the Ether market data set for predicting the next ether price in the market. Every kind of price and volume for every four hours is taken for prediction. The root mean square error of 34.9% is obtained for linear regression, the silhouette score is 71% for K-means clustering of miners with same rewards, with the optimal number of clusters obtained by Gap statistic method.
Internet of Things in Agriculture to Revolutionize Traditional Agricultural Industry
Authors: Kirubanand VB , Rohini V , Laxmankumar V.
Published: March 2021

Agriculture is familiarly called “Farming”. Agriculture is the basic art to cultivate food which is a necessary need to every living individual. Agriculture needs the practice of science for cultivating the soil factors and growing crops. In traditional farming, it includes more labor work and less yield quantity. This demerit can be overcome by the modern farming techniques which makes use of the advanced technology and focuses on maximizing the yield and maintaining the quality. Earlier the farmers used to figure out the type of the soil based on their suspicion and they would never think of the humidity, temperature, climatic condition and especially the level of water. IoT is trying to overcome all these factors by helping to assemble the information. This paper focuses on the soil moisture and soil type which lets the farmer know about the type of crops to be grown.
Robotergestützte Mobilisierungstherapie mit künstlicher Intelligenz
Authors: Egger Marion , Steinböck Martina , Shahriari Erfan , Müller Friedemann
Published: March 2021

Der Einsatz von therapieunterstützenden Robotern könnte in der intensivmedizinischen Frührehabilitation für eine deutliche Vereinfachung der Mobilisierung sorgen. Gezeigt wird dies anhand des neuen robotischen Geräts VEMO.
Künstliche Intelligenz im Gesundheitswesen
Authors: Steinbach Peter
Published: March 2021

Künstliche Intelligenz als Überbegriff steht schon länger im Fokus von Klinikern, Gesundheitsökonomen und medizinischen Wissenschaftlern. Entdeckungen in diesem weiten Feld sind aber nur vereinzelt im klinischen Alltag sichtbar, da insbesondere die diagnostische Entscheidungshoheit dem Menschen zugestanden wird. Doch steht schon heute fest: Der Einsatz von künstlicher Intelligenz wird nach und nach zu einem Wandel in der Medizin führen.
Randomisierte Studie aus Deutschland
Authors: Artunc Ferruh
Published: March 2021

Zur Antikoagulation bei der kontinuierlichen venovenösen Nierenersatztherapie von Intensivpatienten kann neben der systemischen Gabe von Heparin auch eine regionale Antikoagulation mit Zitrat eingesetzt werden. Der Hauptvorteil könnte die Senkung des Blutungsrisikos sein. Nach den Leitlinien der KDIGO (Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes) aus dem Jahre 2012 wird die Zitrat-Antikoagulation favorisiert, allerdings ist der Evidenzgrad dafür gering.
Prenatal Diagnosis of Congenital Cataract: Sonographic Features and Perinatal Outcome in 41 Cases
Authors: Qin Yue , Zhong Xiaohong , Wen Huaxuan , Zeng Qing , Liao Yimei , Luo Dandan , Liang Meiling , Tang Yao , Guo Jiaju , Cao Hongrui , Yang Shuihua , Tian Xiaoxian , Luo Guoyang , Li Shengli
Published: March 2021

Purpose To describe the prenatal ultrasonographic characteristics and perinatal outcomes of congenital cataract.

Materials and Methods We analyzed congenital cataract diagnosed prenatally at four referral centers between August 2004 and February 2019. The diagnosis was confirmed by postnatal ophthalmologic evaluation of liveborn infants or autopsy for terminated cases. Maternal demographics, genetic testing results, prenatal ultrasound images, and perinatal outcomes were abstracted.

Results Total of 41 cases of congenital cataract diagnosed prenatally among 788 751 women undergoing anatomic survey. Based on the sonographic characteristics, 16/41 (39.0 %) had a dense echogenic structure, 15/41 (36.6 %) had a hyperechogenic spot and 10/41 (24.4 %) had the “double ring” sign. 17/41 (41.5 %) were isolated, and 24/41 (58.5 %) had associated intraocular and extraocular findings. Microphthalmia, cardiac abnormalities, and central nervous system abnormalities were the most common associated abnormalities. Regarding potential etiology, 6 cases had a known family history of congenital cataract, 4 cases had confirmed congenital rubella infection, and 2 cases had aneuploidy. 31/41 (75.6 %) elected termination and 10/41 (24.4 %) elected to continue their pregnancy. Among the 10 cases, one case died, one case was lost to follow-up, and the remaining 8 cases were referred for ophthalmologist follow-up and postnatal surgery.

Conclusion Once fetal cataracts are detected, a detailed fetal anatomy survey to rule out associated abnormalities and a workup to identify the potential etiology are recommended. Prenatal diagnosis of congenital cataracts provides vital information for counseling and subsequent management.
Erfahrungen mit dem neuen praxisorientierten A-Kurs
Authors: Schulze-Rohr Alexandra
Published: March 2021

Durch die anstehende Novellierung der Musterweiterbildungsordnung (MWBO) und Anregungen aus der Dozentenschaft wurden die Curricula für die Weiterbildung in den vergangenen Jahren überarbeitet. Didaktisches Ziel war, den Einstieg praxisnäher und die Methode für interessierte Ärzte und Studierende anwendbarer zu machen. Der A-Kurs ist so zu einem „Akutkurs“ geworden, der neben der sicheren Vermittlung der Grundlagen das praktische Vorgehen bei akuten Krankheitsfällen beübt und daher auch nur Arzneimittel für akute Erkrankungen in Differenzialdiagnose (DD) lehrt, während im B-Kurs mit Einführung der Erstanamnese auch die Therapie chronischer Erkrankungen begonnen wird. Die zu lehrenden Arzneimittel und Inhalte der fortgeschrittenen Kurse wurden mit optionalen Varianten breiter gefächert.

Die Änderungen sind überschaubar. Sie umzusetzen, das Interesse der Kollegen zu wecken und sie für die Homöopathie zu begeistern, sollte das Ziel aller Lehrenden sein. Das Curriculum ist von der Delegiertenversammlung des DZVhÄ verabschiedet und für das Musterkursbuch der Bundesärztekammer eingereicht und von dieser anerkannt. Nun wird es von den Landesärztekammern diskutiert. Es gilt danach in den Landesärztekammern, welche die Zusatzbezeichnung Homöopathie in ihrer neuen Weiterbildungsordnung weiterführen (sofern sie nicht von den Empfehlungen der Bundesärztekammer abweichen, was sie auch inhaltlich dürfen), und für die Diplomausbildung bundesweit. Inwieweit Übergangsfristen noch Kurse nach alter Weiterbildungsordnung ermöglichen, muss regional bei der jeweiligen Landesärztekammer erfragt werden.
Digitale Anwendungen und Technologien in der neurologischen Rehabilitation
Authors: Mehrholz Jan , Stoller Oliver
Published: March 2021

Dr. Oliver Stoller baut seit Anfang 2020 zusammen mit einem Team an der ETH Zürich ein Kompetenzzentrum für „Rehabilitation Engineering and Science“ auf und leistet damit einen wichtigen Beitrag für die Weiterentwicklung der Rehabilitation. Im Interview gibt er Auskunft zu digitalen Anwendungen und neuen Technologien in der Neuroreha.
Mytilus edulis pearl – Behandlung eines Asthma bronchiale
Authors: Scheifler Anke , Wein Claudia
Published: March 2021

Dargestellt wird die erfolgreiche Behandlung eines Patienten mit jahrelangem Asthma bronchiale, allergischer Rhinitis, Anaphylaxie und einem Grand-Mal-Anfall mit Mytilus edulis pearl (Miesmuschel). Dabei erfolgte die Mittelbestimmung durch die Empfindungsmethode von Dr. Divya Chhabra. Sowohl die Mittelfindung als auch die Leitsymptome des verordneten Arzneimittels werden erläutert. Durch die Behandlung von 2014 – 2020 konnte die Asthmamedikation reduziert, die Infekthäufigkeit und -schwere konnten erheblich gesenkt und Arbeitsunfähigkeitszeiten konnten vermieden werden. Durch die durchgehende pneumologische Kontrolle können der erfolgreiche Verlauf und die stabile pulmologische Situation gezeigt werden.
DGfN launcht Impfkampagne
Authors: Albers Bettina
Published: March 2021

Mit der Kampagne „Fair denken! Denn die Impfung schützt uns alle“ möchte die DGfN bei Dialysepatientinnen/-patienten, dem Pflegepersonal in nephrologischen Zentren sowie den behandelnden Ärztinnen/Ärzten für eine hohe Impfbereitschaft werben. Dialysepatienten sind wie kaum eine andere Patientengruppe durch die Viruserkrankung gefährdet und müssen an 3 Tagen pro Woche zur Behandlung in ein Dialysezentrum kommen, sie können sich also nicht isolieren. Die DGfN hält es daher für dringend erforderlich, Dialysepatienten bei der Impfung zu priorisieren, und bittet die Gesundheitsministerien der Länder, die Öffnungsklausel in der „Verordnung zum Anspruch auf Schutzimpfung“ entsprechend zu nutzen.
The presence of liver cirrhosis is a strong negative predictor of survival for patients admitted to the intensive care unit – Cirrhosis in intensive care patients
Authors: Kubesch Alica , Peiffer Kai Henrik , Abramowski Hannes , Dultz Georg , Graf Christina , Filmann Natalie , Zeuzem Stefan , Bojunga Jörg , Friedrich-Rust Mireen
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims Liver cirrhosis is a systemic disease that substantially impacts the body’s physiology, especially in advanced stages. Accordingly, the outcome of patients with cirrhosis requiring intensive care treatment is poor. We aimed to analyze the impact of cirrhosis on mortality of intensive care unit (ICU) patients compared to other frequent chronic diseases and conditions.

Methods In this retrospective study, patients admitted over three years to the ICU of the Department of Medicine of the University Hospital Frankfurt were included. Patients were matched for age, gender, pre-existing conditions, simplified acute physiology score (SAPS II), and therapeutic intervention scoring system (TISS).

Results A total of 567 patients admitted to the ICU were included in the study; 99 (17.5 %) patients had liver cirrhosis. A total of 129 patients were included in the matched cohort for the sensitivity analysis. In-hospital mortality was higher in cirrhotic patients than non-cirrhotic patients (p < 0.0001) in the entire and matched cohort. Liver cirrhosis remained one of the strongest independent predictors of in-hospital mortality (entire cohort p = 0.001; matched cohort p = 0.03) along with dialysis and need for transfusion in the multivariate logistic regression analysis. Furthermore, in the cirrhotic group, the need for kidney replacement therapy (p < 0.001) and blood transfusion (p < 0.001) was significantly higher than in the non-cirrhotic group. 

Conclusions In the presented study, liver cirrhosis was one of the strongest predictors of in-hospital mortality in patients needing intensive care treatment along with dialysis and the need for ventilation. Therefore, concerted efforts are needed to improve cirrhotic patients’ outcomes, prevent disease progression, and avoid complications with the need for ICU treatment in the early stages of the disease.
Convergent Synthesis of Branched β-Glucan Tridecasaccharides Ready for Conjugation
Authors: Peng Wenjie , Li Ming , Zhou Xin , Long Qing , Li Dongwei , Gao Jingru , Sun Qikai , Sun Shaozi , Su Yong , Wang Peng
Published: March 2021

Structurally defined and pure oligosaccharides corresponding to β-glucans have attracted great attention because of their potential properties as immunostimulating agents and as antigens of vaccine candidates. We herein describe a convergent synthesis of ready-to-conjugate tridecasaccharides composed of a β-1,3-glucan nonasaccharide backbone and a β-1,6-glucan tetrasaccharide branch. The assembly was achieved by employing trichloroacetimidate glycosylations and features the gram-scale preparation of the nonasaccharide backbone and installation of the tetrasaccharide branch involving orthoester rearrangement to the glycoside.
A Practical Procedure for Regioselective Bromination of Anilines
Authors: Seki Masahiko , Takahashi Yusuke
Published: March 2021

A highly practical procedure for the preparation of bromoanilines by using copper-catalyzed oxidative bromination has been developed. Treatment of free anilines with readily available NaBr and Na2S2O8 in the presence of a catalytic amount of CuSO4·5H2O enabled regioselective bromination.
A Narrative Review of Clinical Decision Support for Inpatient Clinical Pharmacists
Authors: Yan Liang , Reese Thomas , Nelson Scott D.
Published: March 2021

Objective Increasingly, pharmacists provide team-based care that impacts patient care; however, the extent of recent clinical decision support (CDS), targeted to support the evolving roles of pharmacists, is unknown. Our objective was to evaluate the literature to understand the impact of clinical pharmacists using CDS.

Methods We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central for randomized controlled trials, nonrandomized trials, and quasi-experimental studies which evaluated CDS tools that were developed for inpatient pharmacists as a target user. The primary outcome of our analysis was the impact of CDS on patient safety, quality use of medication, and quality of care. Outcomes were scored as positive, negative, or neutral. The secondary outcome was the proportion of CDS developed for tasks other than medication order verification. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale.

Results Of 4,365 potentially relevant articles, 15 were included. Five studies were randomized controlled trials. All included studies were rated as good quality. Of the studies evaluating inpatient pharmacists using a CDS tool, four showed significantly improved quality use of medications, four showed significantly improved patient safety, and three showed significantly improved quality of care. Six studies (40%) supported expanded roles of clinical pharmacists.

Conclusion These results suggest that CDS can support clinical inpatient pharmacists in preventing medication errors and optimizing pharmacotherapy. Moreover, an increasing number of CDS tools have been developed for pharmacists' roles outside of order verification, whereby further supporting and establishing pharmacists as leaders in safe and effective pharmacotherapy.
Alloplastic Facial Implants
Authors: Hsieh Tsung-yen , Dhir Karan , Binder William J. , Hilger Peter Andrew
Published: March 2021

As the face ages, there is thinning of the epidermis, volume loss and rearrangement of the soft tissues, and malabsorption of the skeletal framework. It is essential to have a thorough understanding of the aging process for successful facial augmentation and rejuvenation. Alloplastic implants can be used to provide a long-lasting solution for augmentation of skeletal deficiencies, restoration of facial irregularities, and rejuvenation of the face. In this study, we describe the ideal implant characteristics along with the advantages and disadvantages of various implant materials. We also present techniques in nasal and premaxillary augmentation, midface augmentation, mandibular augmentation, and lip augmentation. Additionally, computer-aided design and manufacturing as well as bioprinting are emerging technologies with growing applications in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. We discuss their role in the creation of patient-specific custom implants. The overall goal of facial rejuvenation is to address multiple aspects of the facial aging process including deficiencies in the skin, soft tissues, and skeletal framework. The use of alloplastic implants alone or synergistically with additional surgical procedures can restore a wide range of anatomical deficits that occur with age.
Quantitative Analysis of Enhanced Selfies in a Young Adult Population
Authors: Parsa Keon M. , Talati Ish A. , Wang Haijun , Chu Eugenia , Talakoub Lily , Reilly Michael J.
Published: March 2021

The use of filters and editing tools for perfecting selfies is increasing. While some aesthetic experts have touted the ability of this technology to help patients convey their aesthetic goals, others have expressed concerns about the unrealistic expectations that may come from the ability for individuals to digitally alter their own photos in these so-called “super-selfies.” The aim of the study is to determine the changes that individuals seek when enhancing selfies. Twenty subjects participated in this study between July 25 and September 24, 2019. Subjects had two sets of headshots taken (neutral and smile) and were provided an introduction on the use of the Facetune2 app. Subjects received a digital copy of their photographs and were asked to download the free mobile app. After 1 week of trialing the different tools for enhancing their appearance, subjects submitted their self-determined most attractive edited photographs. Changes in marginal reflex distance (MRD) 1 and 2, nose height and width, eyebrow height, facial width, skin smoothness, skin hue, and saturation as well as overall image brightness were recorded. Paired two-tailed t-test was used to evaluate pre- and post-facial measurements. There were no statistically significant changes identified in the analysis of the altered photos in neutral expression. Analysis of all smiling photographs revealed that subjects increased their smile angle (right: +2.92 mm, p = 0.04; left: +3.58 mm, p < 0.001). When smiling photographs were assessed by gender, females were found to significantly increase their MRD2 (right: +0.64 mm, p = 0.04; left: +0.74 mm, p = 0.05) and their smile angle (right: +1.90 mm, p = 0.03; left: +2.31 mm, p = 0.005) while also decreasing their nose height (−2.8 mm, p = 0.04). Males did not significantly alter any of the facial measurements assessed. This study identifies the types of changes that individuals seek when enhancing selfies and specifies the different aspects of image adjustment that may be sought based on a patient's gender.
The Story of a Ship Journey, Malaria, and the HBB Gene IVS-II-745 Mutation: Circassian Immigration to Cyprus
Authors: Ergoren Mahmut C. , Temel Sehime G. , Mocan Gamze , Dundar Munis
Published: March 2021

Background During 19th century, the Circassians were secluded from their lands and forced to migrate to Ottoman Empire properties. Approximately 2,346 Circassians were exiled from Istanbul to Cyprus Island. During the deportation journey, many of Circassian passed away in consequence of malaria and unknown reasons. Overall, 1,351 survivor Circassians managed to reach the island, however, many of them had faced with endemic malaria again in Cyprus. An autosomal recessive hematological disorder thalassemia was the second endemic health condition after malaria, whereas thalassemia carriers show resistance to malaria infections.

Materials and Methods A large Cypriot family with 57 members whose grandparents were supposed to be in that ship journey has been investigated in this study. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)–amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS) analysis technique was used for genotyping the HHB gene.

Results The human β-globin (HBB) gene c.316–106C > G (IVS-II-745) (II-745) heterozygous variation have been detected.

Conclusion Overall, this study is a very good example for a typical natural selection. In this case, one single gene point mutation did not limit survival in the society; natively, it increased their survival changes to form new colonization and the inheritance of the mutation to the next generations.
On the evolution of social ties as an instrumental tool for resource competition in resource patch networks
Authors: Liu Chester Wai-Jen , Shen Sheng-Feng , Liu Wei-Chung
Published: March 2021

Human is a highly cultural species with diversified skills and knowledge. In this paper, we examine whether the diversification of skills and knowledge can promote the emergence of social ties between individuals as means for acquiring resources. Specifically, we construct a simulation model consisting of two types of actors—one who uses social ties to search for resources and one who does not—and allow them to compete for resources that are distributed in resource patch networks of varying structures. In a densely connected resource patch network, implying a setting with less diversified sets of skills and knowledge, model result demonstrates that social ties can be detrimental to those adopting it. In a sparsely connected network, implying a setting with more diversified sets of skills and knowledge, social-type strategy can outcompete solitary-type strategy. Furthermore, actors with a pure social-type strategy are always inferior to their solitary competitors, regardless the structure of the resource patch network. Our modeling framework is of a very fundamental nature, and its relevance to existing theories and the sociological implication of its results are discussed.
Mitigation of harmonics and inter-harmonics with LVRT and HVRT enhancement in grid-connected wind energy systems using genetic algorithm- optimized PWM and fuzzy adaptive PID control
Authors: Mostefa Abdelkader , Boulouiha Houari Merabet , Allali Ahmed , Denai Mouloud
Published: March 2021

The growing installed wind capacity over the last decade has led many energy regulators to define specific grid codes for wind energy generation systems connecting to the electricity grid. These requirements impose strict laws regarding the Low Voltage Ride Though (LVRT) and High Voltage Ride Though (HVRT) capabilities of wind turbines during voltage disturbances. The main aim of this paper is to propose LVRT and HVRT strategies that allow wind systems to remain connected during severe grid voltage disturbances. Power quality issues associated with harmonics and inter-harmonics are also discussed and a control scheme for the grid-side converter is proposed to make the Wind Energy Conversion System insensitive to external disturbances and parametric variations. The Selective Harmonic Elimination Pulse Width Modulation technique based on Genetic Algorithm optimization is employed to overcome over-modulation problems, reduce the amplitudes of harmonics, and thus reduce the Total Harmonic Distortion in the current and voltage waveforms. Furthermore, to compensate for the fluctuations of the wind speed due to turbulence at the blades of the turbine, a fuzzy Proportional-Integral-Derivative controller with adaptive gains is proposed to control the converter on the generator side.