bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprendre, choisir et acheter des LEDs UV
Authors: Fiedler Walter , Merry Christian , Gordon Peter E.
Published: February 2021

En 1992, le prix Nobel Japonais Isamu Akasaki a mis au point la première diode électroluminescente (DEL) pour le spectre ultraviolet. Depuis lors, cette technologie relativement jeune n'a cessé de conquérir de nouveaux domaines d'application. Il est difficile de suivre l'évolution actuelle du marché, en particulier dans les courtes longueurs d'onde UV entre 280 nm et 100 nm, tant le développement technique progresse rapidement. Nous proposons ici un aperçu et des aides à la décision pratiques dans la recherche d'une LED UV adaptée à l’application visée.
Alltagsaktivitäten einschätzen – Duruöz Hand-Index
Authors: Krupp Sonja
Published: February 2021

Der Duruöz Hand-Index ist ein Selbstbeurteilungs-instrument für Klienten mit Handfunktionsstörungen. Anhand von 18 Aktivitäten können sie einschätzen, inwieweit die Einschränkungen ihren Alltag beeinflussen.
Fall für Vier – Selbstständigkeit nach dem Sturz
Authors: Lindemann Beate , Kroog Anna , Gugenhan Julia , Hendlmeier Ingrid
Published: February 2021

Bei einem Sturz zog sich Frau Fischer eine Femurfraktur zu. Nach der Reha zeigte sich, dass der Sturz ihr Leben verändert hat: War sie zuvor im Alltag selbstständig, benötigte sie plötzlich mehr Hilfe als ursprünglich erwartet. Die Hausärztin, die Ergo- und die Physiotherapeutin sowie eine Pflegeberaterin berichten aus ihrer Sicht von dem Fall.
EUS-guided gastroenterostomy versus enteral stenting for gastric outlet obstruction: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chandan Saurabh , Khan Shahab R. , Mohan Babu P. , Shah Aun R. , Bilal Mohammad , Ramai Daryl , Bhogal Neil , Dhindsa Banreet , Kassab Lena L. , Singh Shailendra , Ponnada Suresh , Nguyen Andrew K. , McDonough Stephanie , Adler Douglas G.
Published: February 2021

Abtract

Background and study aims Endoscopic and surgical techniques have been utilized for palliation of gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). Enteral stenting (ES) is an established technique with high clinical success and low morbidity rate. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided gastroenterostomy (EUS-GE) is a novel approach that aims to provide sustained palliation of GOO. We conducted a comprehensive review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness in terms of clinical and technical success, as well as the safety profile of EUS-GE and ES.

Methods We searched multiple databases from inception through July 2020 to identify studies that reported on safety and effectiveness of EUS-GE in comparison to ES. Pooled rates of technical success, clinical success, and adverse events (AEs) were calculated. Study heterogeneity was assessed using I2% and 95 % confidence interval.

Results Five studies including 659 patients were included in our final analysis. Pooled rate of technical and clinical success for EUS-GE was 95.2 % (CI 87.2-.98.3, I2 = 42) and 93.3 % (CI 84.4–97.3, I2 = 59) while for ES it was 96.9 % (CI 90.9–99, I2 = 64) and 85.6 % (CI 73–92.9, I2 = 85), respectively. Pooled rate of re-intervention was significantly lower with EUS-GE i. e. 4 % (CI 1.8–8.7, I2 = 35) compared to ES, where it was 23.6 % (CI 17.5–31, I2 = 35), p = 0.001. Pooled rates of overall and major AEs were comparable between the two techniques.

Conclusion EUS-GE is comparable in terms of technical and clinical effectiveness and has a similar safety profile when compared to ES for palliation of GOO.
Wearables bei Demenzerkrankungen
Authors: Pirker-Kees Agnes , Baumgartner Christoph
Published: February 2021

Demenzerkrankungen führen durch den schleichenden Abbau kognitiver, sozialer und emotionaler Fähigkeiten, auch zu einem Verlust von Autonomie und Selbstbestimmtheit. Wearables sind am Körper getragene Sensoren: Akzelerometer und GPS-Tracker sind im Freizeit- und Fitnessbereich allgegenwärtig – sie zeichnen Bewegungs- und Positionsdaten auf. Das Potenzial, diese bei Demenzpatienten einzusetzen ist groß und wird intensiv beforscht. Wearables sind tlw. auch am Markt erhältlich (bspw. GPS-Tracker in Schuhsohlen). Informationen über Gangbild und Bewegungsdaten können auch Hinweise auf das Sturzrisiko, Verhaltensstörungen/Life-Events oder differenzialdiagnostische Aspekte geben. Trotz des großen Potenzials dürfen ethische Aspekte betreffend die Privatsphäre und den Datenschutz in der Entwicklung nicht außer Acht gelassen werden. Dieser Artikel gibt einen Überblick über die aktuelle Entwicklung von Wearables und damit verbundene ethische Aspekte.
3-Dimensional Ultrasound: How can the Fetal Corpus Callosum Be Demonstrated Correctly?
Authors: Pashaj Sonila , Merz Eberhard
Published: February 2021

The aim of this article is to outline the correct demonstration of the fetal corpus callosum with 3D ultrasound between 18 and 40 weeks of gestation. An abdominal or transvaginal 3D transducer can be used for acquisition of the fetal brain depending on the position of the fetus. The best demonstration of the corpus callosum can be achieved, when the volume with the corpus callosum is acquired from a sagittal or parasagittal sectional plane of the brain. Once the volume is stored in the memory, the multiplanar mode allows manipulation in all three dimensions until the exact median plane is seen, showing the corpus callosum as a hypo- or anechoic curved structure. Volume acquisition of the brain from an axial plane of the fetal head – typically used for biometrical measurements of the head diameters – is not recommended for clinical evaluation of the corpus callosum because the reconstructed median plane does not reveal the margins and the structure of the corpus callosum precisely. Other display modes such as volume contrast imaging (VCI), OmniView-VCI, and tomographic display may also be used for demonstration of the corpus callosum. However, these display modes only provide the operator with good image quality of the corpus callosum if the fetal brain was acquired from a sagittal and not from an axial plane.

Conclusion 3D ultrasound is an excellent clinical tool for the exact presentation of the fetal corpus callosum because it allows volume manipulation of the fetal head in all three dimensions with precise demonstration of the median plane of the brain.
Palliative Care: Ausbildungslandschaft Pflege
Authors: Brandstötter Cornelia , Krutter Simon , Paal Piret , Schirnhofer Angelika , Glarcher Manela
Published: February 2021

Ziel der Studie Trotz gesetzlicher Regelung zu Palliative Care in der Gesundheits- und Krankenpflege in Österreich, fehlen Vorgaben zu Ausbildungsstunden, zum Praktikum und zur Qualifikation von Lehrenden. Ziel der Studie ist es, ein umfassendes Bild zu Palliative Care in der Pflegegrundausbildung zu erhalten.

Methode 2019 wurde eine deskriptive Querschnittsstudie mittels Online-Survey in 29 Institutionen durchgeführt.

Ergebnisse Die theoretische Ausbildung weist eine hohe Spannbreite pro Ausbildungsform auf und bewegt sich im Durchschnitt von 21,2 Unterrichtstunden in den Schulen für Gesundheits- und Krankenpflege bis 2,5 ECTS im Bachelorstudium. Ebenso wird die praktische Ausbildung sowie didaktische Vermittlung von Inhalten einrichtungsspezifisch gehandhabt.

Schlussfolgerung Die gesetzliche Verankerung von Palliative Care in der Grundausbildung ist ein erster Ansatz. Die Ergebnisse dieser Studie können als Ausgangspunkt zur Entwicklung eines einheitlichen Curriculums dienen.
Oxidative Dimerization of 1Н-Benzo[f]chromenes: Synthesis of Benzannulated Analogues of Spirobiflavonoids Welwitschins E and F
Authors: Osyanin Vitaly A. , Demidov Maxim R. , Osipov Dmitry V. , Klimochkin Yuri N.
Published: February 2021

A new oxidative transformation of 1H-benzo[f]chromenes into spirodimers under the action of selenium dioxide was discovered, leading to spirodimers, which are dibenzannulated analogues of naturally occurring welwitschins E and F. In the reaction, both MnO2 and I2O5 can also be used as an oxidant. The protocol has advantages of mild reaction conditions and simple operation. At the same time, oxidation of 1H-benzo[f]chromenes with (diacetoxyiodo)benzene is accompanied by the formation of 3,3′-bibenzo[f]chromene as a dimer of a different structure. It was also found that 4H-chromenes under the action of various oxidants are cleaved to give chalcone.
An Intraoral Repair Method for Chipping Fracture of a Multi-unit Fixed Zirconia Reconstruction: A Direct Dental Technique
Authors: Mesquita Alfredo Mikail Melo , Al-Haj Husain Nadin , Molinero-Mourelle Pedro , Özcan Mutlu
Published: February 2021

Fracture or chipping of veneering ceramic is one of the most frequent clinical failures in dentistry in fixed dental and implant-borne prostheses. Due to the friable nature of the ceramic material, chippings may result in an aesthetic and functional problem for the patient requiring a rapid solution. Direct repairs have been indicated for the restoration of function, aesthetics and comfort, especially in cases where the fractured prosthesis presents good adaptation and satisfactory aesthetics. This case report aims to present and discuss the techniques of the direct reveneering method, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as the importance of adhesive procedures in the success of these restorative approaches. Success in repairing the fractured area, regardless of the technique used, is fundamental to establish a strong and stable adhesion between the repaired and the fractured areas, since the longevity of the repair will depend on the quality of the interface generated.
Use of Gelatin-thrombin Hemostatic Matrix for Control of Ruptured Cerebral Aneurysm
Authors: Umana Giuseppe Emmanuele , Scalia Gianluca , Spitaleri Angelo , Alberio Nicola , Fricia Marco , Tomasi Santino Ottavio , Nicoletti Giovanni Federico , Cicero Salvatore
Published: February 2021

Background The use of thrombin-based hemostatic agents (TBHAs) has become common practice in most neurosurgical procedures, both cranial and spinal.

Methods We present the case of a 40-year-old woman who was referred to our institution with intense headache and Fisher grade 3 subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) mainly at the level of the right sylvian fissure, caused by a 5.71-mm right middle cerebral artery (MCA) bifurcation aneurysm, with hourglass morphology and a bleb on the bottom. Cerebral angiography demonstrated aneurysm enlargement, compared with the prior angiographic computerized tomography scan.

Results A right pterional craniotomy was performed. After initial arachnoid dissection to get proximal vascular control, but before we obtained it, we witnessed profuse bleeding from the aneurysm. Floseal, a gelatin-thrombin matrix sealant, was sprayed over the breach of the aneurysm, and cottonoids were gently pressed with a self-retaining spatula, stopping the hemorrhage. After that, we obtained proximal control with an extradural clinoidectomy and temporary clipping of the right internal carotid artery (ICA) and MCA. Finally, aneurysm dissection and final clipping were performed with the application of two clips. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 10.

Conclusion Intraoperative aneurysm rupture (IAR) is a dangerous event that carries great risks—even death. Proper use of TBHAs is a useful and safe way to stop the bleeding, take a deep breath, and achieve proximal vascular control. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the use of TBHA during aneurysm clipping.
Complications Following Decompressive Craniectomy
Authors: Mraček Jan , Mork Jan , Dostal Jiri , Tupy Radek , Mrackova Jolana , Priban Vladimir
Published: February 2021

Background Decompressive craniectomy (DC) has become the definitive surgical procedure to manage a medically intractable rise in intracranial pressure. DC is a life-saving procedure resulting in lower mortality but also higher rates of severe disability. Although technically straightforward, DC is accompanied by many complications. It has been reported that complications are associated with worse outcome. We reviewed a series of patients who underwent DC at our department to establish the incidence and types of complications.

Methods We retrospectively evaluated the incidence of complications after DC performed in 135 patients during the time period from January 2013 to December 2018. Postoperative complications were evaluated using clinical status and CT during 6 months of follow-up. In addition, the impact of potential risk factors on the incidence of complications and the impact of complications on outcome were assessed.

Results DC was performed in 135 patients, 93 of these for trauma, 22 for subarachnoid hemorrhage, 13 for malignant middle cerebral artery infarction, and 7 for intracerebral hemorrhage. Primary DC was performed in 120 patients and secondary DC in 15 patients. At least 1 complication occurred in each of 100 patients (74%), of which 22 patients (22%) were treated surgically. The following complications were found: edema or hematoma of the temporal muscle (34 times), extracerebral hematoma (33 times), extra-axial fluid collection (31 times), hemorrhagic progression of contusions (19 times), hydrocephalus (12 times), intraoperative malignant brain edema (10 times), temporal muscle atrophy (7 times), significant intraoperative blood loss (6 times), epileptic seizures (5 times), and skin necrosis (4 times). Trauma (p = 0.0006), coagulopathy (p = 0.0099), and primary DC (p = 0.0252) were identified as risk factors for complications. There was no significant impact of complications on outcome.

Conclusions The incidence of complications following DC is high. However, we did not confirm a significant impact of complications on outcome. We emphasize that some phenomena are so frequent that they can be considered a consequence of primary injury or natural sequelae of the DC rather than its direct complication.
Impact of Postoperative Opioid Use on 2-Year Patient-Reported Outcomes in Knee Surgery Patients
Authors: Song Xuyang , Sajak Patrick M.J. , Aneizi Ali , Alqazzaz Aymen , Burt Cameran I. , Ventimiglia Dominic J. , Meredith Sean J. , Leong Natalie L. , Packer Jonathan D. , Henn R. Frank
Published: February 2021

The purposes of this study were to identify the patient characteristics associated with refilling a postoperative opioid prescription after knee surgery and to determine whether refilling opioids is associated with 2-year patient-reported outcomes. We hypothesized that postoperative refill of opioids would be associated with worse 2-year patient-reported outcomes. We studied 192 patients undergoing knee surgery at a single urban academic institution. Patients completed multiple patient-reported outcome measures preoperatively and 2 years postoperatively, including six Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) domains, the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) questionnaire, numeric pain scale scores for the operative knee and the rest of the body, Marx Activity Rating Scale, as well as measures of met expectations, improvement, and satisfaction. Total morphine equivalents (TMEs) were calculated from a regional prescription monitoring program. Patients who refilled a postoperative opioid prescription were compared with those who did not, and TMEs were calculated for those who refilled (Refill TMEs). One hundred twenty-nine patients (67%) refilled at least one postoperative opioid prescription. Black race, older age, higher average body mass index (BMI), smoking, greater medical comorbidities, preoperative opioid use, lower income, government insurance, and knee arthroplasty were associated with refilling opioids. Greater Refill TMEs was associated with black or white race, older age, higher average BMI, smoking, greater medical comorbidities, preoperative opioid use, government insurance, and unemployment. Refilling opioids and greater Refill TMEs were associated with worse postoperative scores on most patient-reported outcome measures 2 years after knee surgery. However, refilling opioids and greater Refill TMEs did not have a significant association with improvement after surgery. Multivariable analysis controlling for potential confounding variables confirmed that greater postoperative Refill TMEs independently predicted worse 2-year PROMIS Physical Function, 2-year PROMIS Pain Interference, and 2-year IKDC knee function scores. Postoperative refill of opioids was associated with worse 2-year patient-reported outcomes in a dose-dependent fashion. These findings reinforce the importance of counseling patients regarding opioid use and optimizing opioid-sparing pain management postoperatively.
Non-COVID Neurological Emergencies: A Silent Killer Going Unnoticed during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Dhar Nikita , Madhaw Govind , Kumar Mritunjai , Kumar Niraj , Tiwari Ashutosh , Jatale Vinayak
Published: February 2021

Objective This study assesses the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the pattern of neurological emergencies reaching a tertiary care center.

Materials and Methods This is a retrospective and single center study involving 295 patients with neurological emergencies mainly including acute stroke, status epilepticus (SE), and tubercular meningitis visiting emergency department (ED) from January 1 to April 30, 2020 and divided into pre- and during lockdown, the latter starting from March 25 onward. The primary outcome was number of neurological emergencies visiting ED per week in both periods. Secondary outcomes included disease severity at admission, need for mechanical ventilation (MV), delay in hospitalization, in-hospital mortality, and reasons for poor compliance to ongoing treatment multivariate binary logistic regression was used to find independent predictors of in-hospital mortality which included variables with p <0.1 on univariate analysis. Structural break in the time series analysis was done by using Chow test.

Results There was 53.8% reduction in number of neurological emergencies visiting ED during lockdown (22.1 visits vs. 10.2 visits per week, p = 0.001), significantly affecting rural population (p = 0.004). Presenting patients had comparatively severe illness with increased requirement of MV (p < 0.001) and significant delay in hospitalization during lockdown (p < 0.001). Poor compliance to ongoing therapy increased from 34.4% in pre-lockdown to 64.7% patients during lockdown (p < 0.001), mostly due to nonavailability of drugs (p < 0.001). Overall, 35 deaths were recorded, with 20 (8.2%) in pre-lockdown and 15 (29.4%) during lockdown (p = 0.001). Lockdown, nonavailability of local health care, delay in hospitalization, severity at admission, and need for MV emerged as independent predictors of poor outcome in stroke and delay in hospitalization in SE.

Conclusion COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdown resulted in marked decline in non-COVID neurological emergencies reporting to ED, with more severe presentations and significant delay from onset of symptoms to hospitalization.
Reconstructive Outcomes of Multilayered Closure of Large Skull Base Dural Defects Following Open Anterior Craniofacial Resection
Authors: Shi Justin , Ayeni Tokunbo , Gallagher Kathleen Kelly , Patel Akash J. , Jalali Ali , Hernandez David J. , Haskins Angela D. , Sandulache Vlad C. , Sturgis Erich M. , Huang Andrew T.
Published: February 2021

Introduction Standardized reconstruction protocols for large open anterior skull base defects with dural resection are not well described. Here we report the outcomes and technique of a multilayered reconstructive algorithm utilizing local tissue, dural graft matrix, and microvascular free tissue transfer (MVFTT) for reconstruction of these deformities.

Design This study is a retrospective review.

Results Eleven patients (82% males) met inclusion criteria, with five (45%) having concurrent orbital exenteration and eight (73%) requiring maxillectomy. All patients required dural resection with or without intracranial tumor resection, with the average dural defect being 36.0 ± 25.9 cm2. Dural graft matrices and pericranial flaps were used for primary reconstruction of the dural defects, which were then reinforced with free fascia or muscle overlay by means of MVFTT. Eight (73%) patients underwent anterolateral thigh MVFTT, with the radial forearm, fibula, and vastus lateralis comprising the remainder. Average total surgical time of tumor resection and reconstruction was 14.9 ± 3.8 hours, with median length of hospitalization being 10 days (IQR: 9.5, 14). Continuous cerebrospinal fluid drainage through a lumber drain was utilized in 10 (91%) patients perioperatively, with an average length of indwelling drain of 5 days. Postoperative complications occurred in two (18%) patients who developed asymptomatic pneumocephalus that resolved with high-flow oxygen therapy.

Conclusion A standardized multilayered closure technique of dural graft matrix, pericranial flap, and MVFTT overlay in the reconstruction of large open anterior craniofacial dural defects can assist the reconstructive team in approaching these complex deformities and may help prevent postoperative complications.
Systematic Review Comparing Open versus Endoscopic Surgery in Clival Chordomas and a 10-Year Single-Center Experience
Authors: Baig Mirza Asfand , Ravindran Visagan , Okasha Mohamed , Boardman Timothy Martyn , Maratos Eleni , Sinan Barazi , Thomas Nick
Published: February 2021

Objectives Chordomas are rare, slow-growing, and osteo-destructive tumors of the primitive notochord. There is still contention in the literature as to the optimal management of chordoma. We conducted a systematic review of the surgical management of chordoma along with our 10-year institutional experience.

Design A systematic search of the literature was performed in October 2020 by using MEDLINE and EMBASE for articles relating to the surgical management of clival chordomas. We also searched for all adult patients surgically treated for primary clival chordomas at our institute between 2009 and 2019.

Participants Only articles describing chordomas arising from the clivus were included in the analysis. For our institution experience, only adult primary clival chordoma cases were included.

Main Outcome Measures Patients were divided into endoscopic or open surgery. Rate of gross total resection (GTR), recurrence, and complications were measured.

Results Our literature search yielded 24 articles to include in the study. Mean GTR rate among endoscopic cases was 51.9% versus 41.7% for open surgery. Among the eight cases in our institutional experience, we found similar GTR rates between endoscopic and open surgery.

Conclusion Although there is clear evidence in the literature that endoscopic approaches provide better rates of GTR with fewer overall complications compared to open surgery. However, there are still situations where endoscopy is not viable, and thus, open surgery should still be considered if required.
Anatomic Considerations of Microvascular Free Tissue Transfer in Endoscopic Endonasal Skull Base Surgery
Authors: Mady Leila J. , Kaffenberger Thomas M. , Baddour Khalil , Melder Katie , Godse Neal R. , Gardner Paul , Snyderman Carl H. , Solari Mario G. , Kubik Mark W. , Wang Eric W. , Sridharan Shaum
Published: February 2021

Objective Though microvascular free tissue transfer is well established for open skull base reconstruction, normative data regarding flap design and inset after endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery (ESBS) is lacking. We aim to describe anatomical considerations of endoscopic endonasal inset of free tissue transfer of transclival (TC) and anterior cranial base resection (ACBR) defects.

Design and Setting Radial forearm free tissue transfer (RFFTT) model.

Participants Six cadaveric specimens.

Main Outcome Measures Pedicle orientation, pedicle length, and recipient vessel intraluminal diameter.

Results TC and ACBR defects averaged 17.2 and 11.7 cm2, respectively. Anterior and lateral maxillotomies and endoscopic medial maxillectomies were prepared as corridors for flap and pedicle passage. Premasseteric space tunnels were created for pedicle tunneling to recipient facial vessels. For TC defects, the RFFTT pedicle was oriented cranially with the flap placed against the clival defect (mean pedicle length 13.1 ± 0.6 cm). For ACBR defects, the RFFTT pedicle was examined in three orientations with respect to anterior–posterior axis of the RFFTT: anteriorly, posteriorly, and laterally. Lateral orientation offered the shortest average pedicle length required for anastomosis in the neck (11.6 ± 1.29 cm), followed by posterior (13.4 ± 0.7cm) and anterior orientations (14.4 ± 1.1cm) (p < 0.00001, analysis of variance).

Conclusions In ACBR reconstruction using RFFTT, our data suggests lateral pedicle orientation shortens the length required to safely anastomose facial vessels and protects the frontal sinus outflow anteriorly while limiting pedicle exposure through a maxillary corridor within the nasal cavity. With greater understanding of anatomical factors related to successful preoperative flap planning, free tissue transfer may be added to the ESBS reconstruction ladder.
On the applicability of Schottky diffusion theory to non-ohmic cathode contact P3HT:PCBM bulk-hetero junction solar cell
Authors: Omer Bushra Mohamed , Merazga Amar
Published: February 2021

The classical Schottky diffusion theory is applied to a non-ohmic cathode contact P3HT:PCBM bulk-heterojunction solar cell under the assumption of a p-type doped active region. Analytical expressions of the dark current density/voltage (JD/V) characteristic and the open-circuit voltage under illumination VOC are, thus, derived for this cell. They are validated with reference to a complete numerical simulation by the analysis of microelectronic and photonic structures-one-dimensional simulator. The Schottky diffusion theory is shown to be reasonably applicable to modeling the JD/V characteristic in the forward bias region within the range below the built-in voltage Vbi and in the complete reverse bias region. It is demonstrated that depending on the p-doping density NA and the hole mobility μh of the active region, VOC is linearly controlled by the Schottky barrier height φB.
Transfer of a levitating nanoparticle between optical tweezers
Authors: Calamai M. , Ranfagni A. , Marin F.
Published: February 2021

We demonstrate and characterize the transfer of a levitating silica nanosphere between two optical tweezers at low pressure. Both optical traps are mounted on the heads of optical fibers and placed on translation stages in vacuum chambers. Our setup allows us to physically separate the particle loading environment from the experimental chamber, where the second tweezer can position the particle inside a high finesse optical cavity. The separation prevents from spoiling the cavity mirrors and the chamber cleanliness during the particle loading phase. Our system provides a very reliable and simply reproducible protocol for preparing cavity optomechanics experiments with levitating nanoparticles, opening the way to systematic studies of quantum phenomena and easing the realization of sensing devices.
Partial discharge breakdown characteristics under needle–plate defect configuration
Authors: Zou Dandan , Pan Hanyu , Qaisrani M. Hasnain
Published: February 2021

Partial discharge of the dielectric is an important problem in fault detection of transmission line systems. It has gained gigantic attention to understand the breakdown characteristics of partial discharge. In this paper, the needle–plate discharge experiment is carried out by using the needle–plate defect discharge device and high voltage pulse power supply under atmospheric pressure. The breakdown characteristics are measured and analyzed by changing the needle plate clearance distance and using the step-up method. Finally, a simulation model of the needle plate was established to calculate the electric field intensity when the needle plate gap with different spacing was broken down, and the relationship between the maximum electric field intensity and the needle plate spacing was obtained. It is found that the breakdown voltage increases with the increase in the spacing between the needle and plate. The measured value is only slightly larger than the theoretical value of the breakdown voltage without the influence of harmonics. The simulation found that the larger the spacing between the needle and plate was, the smaller the maximum electric field intensity was during the breakdown, which was different from the theory.
Experimental investigation on steam flow loss characteristics in microchannels
Authors: Yin Weikai , Gu Haifeng , Wang Hui , Sun Qingyang , Zhao Wantong , Zhou Yanmin
Published: February 2021

In this paper, experiments were performed to investigate the flow loss characteristics of steam through different microchannels. The microchannels were assembled from stainless steel machined flange assemblies and pipes. The inlet pressure was 20 kPa, and the outlet pressure was adjusted between 5 kPa and 16 kPa (absolute pressure). The steam flow rate in microchannels was obtained by condensing the steam through a condenser coil, and the effects of microchannels of different structures and dimensions on the friction factor were studied by experiment. Experimental results show that the gas flow is not choking, even if the pressure ratio between the inlet and the outlet is as high as 4. In addition, a new correlation between the volumetric flow rate and the pressure difference was derived, and the error between the prediction curve and experimental data is within 20%. Besides, the microchannels’ structure effects on flow loss were investigated. The single most striking observation to emerge from the data comparison was that the gas flow phenomena in grooved channels with different hydraulic diameters were contrary. For microchannels with a hydraulic diameter of 300 µm, higher steam outlet velocities are found when steam flows in specially constructed microchannels. However, the opposite phenomena were observed in microchannels with a hydraulic diameter of 500 µm.
The improvement of CoZrTaB thin films on different substrates for flexible device applications
Authors: Wu Yanze , Yeng I-Chen , Yu Hongbin
Published: February 2021

In this paper, the CoZrTaB thin films are fabricated using sputtering on different substrates and characterized comprehensively. The CoZrTaB thin films have been fabricated in the single-layer and multi-layer structures with SiO2 as the insulator layer, of which the vibrating sample magnetometer results suggest that the saturation field and the coercivity change of the multi-layer structure can be minimized while the lamination structure can suppress the eddy current at high working frequency. Compared with the continuously sputtered 400 nm CoZrTaB thin film, the multi-layer thin film shows a hysteresis loop with a single domain and small coercivity. The surface roughness of each CoZrTaB thin film and two kinds of polyimide substrates is extracted by the atomic force microscope instrument. Besides, material characterization such as X-ray powder diffraction and Rutherford backscattering spectrometry have been conducted to acquire the information of phase and element ratio of the CoZrTaB thin film. Also, the different process conditions that could affect the magnetic properties are investigated and verified. A comparison is made with the previously reported results, sustaining the improvement of the CoZrTaB thin film on different substrates.
Nutrition, feeding and laying hen welfare
Authors: Bryden W. L. , Li X. , Ruhnke I. , Zhang D. , Shini S.
Published: February 2021

The relationship between nutrition and welfare is usually considered to be a direct result of supplying the hen with adequate quantities of feed and water. This simple notion of freedom from hunger and thirst belies the fact that nutrients play a pivotal role in the body’s response to challenges whether they relate to ambient temperature, gastrointestinal health, pathogen exposure, metabolic disorders, or social and mental stress. In all instances, maintaining homeostasis and allowing for physiologic response is dependent on an adequate and balanced nutrient supply. It is accepted that most laying hens are fed a complete diet, formulated commercially to provide the required nutrients for optimal health, egg production and welfare. In other words, the laying hen, irrespective of her housing, does not experience hunger or thirst. However, despite adequate nutrient and water supply, certain senarios can significantly affect and alter the nutrient requirements of the hen. Furthermore, the chemical composition and also the physical form of feed can significantly contribute to prevent or treat welfare and health conditions and is, therefore, a highly relevant tool to ensure and maintain an adequate welfare status. Therefore, this review takes a broader perspective of nutritional welfare and considers the nutrition of hens managed in different production systems in relation to nutritional physiology, gut microbiota, stress, metabolic disorders and feeding management.
Raising productivity of cereal crops in dry and heat stress environments remains a breeding challenge
Authors: Dwivedi Sangam L. , Ortiz Rodomiro
Published: February 2021

‘Green Revolution’ genes have led to the release of input-responsive cultivars, resulting in multifold productivity increases in rice and wheat. Declining precipitation, increased intensity of drought and rising temperature are casting uncertainty over agricultural production. As noted in this minireview, plant genes when overexpressed allow cereals to produce grains in drought- and heat-prone sites.
Panama’s Camino Real, a Historic Walking Trail
Authors: Torres Issa
Published: February 2021

Throughout the long history of South and Central America, the major trade routes have been of huge strategic importance. This case study provides an overview of some of the most iconic; then focuses more particularly on Panama’s Camino Real, which was once a commercial highway that linked the Atlantic to the Pacific.

Information

Adapted from ‘Chapter 1: Tourism Routes and their Identity’. In: Ward-Perkins, D., Beckmann, C., Ellis, J. (eds)
Tourism routes and trails theory and practice
. CAB International, pp. 10-15.

© CAB International 2020
A Conflict between Indexical Credal Transparency and Relevance Confirmation
Authors: Pust Joel
Published: February 2021

According to the probabilistic relevance account of confirmation, E confirms H relative to background knowledge K just in case P(H/K&E)>P(H/K). This requires an inequality between the rational degree of belief in H determined relative to two bodies of total knowledge that are such that one (K&E) includes the other (K) as a proper part. In this article, I argue that it is quite plausible that there are no two possible bodies of total knowledge for ideally rational agents meeting this requirement. Hence, the positive relevance account may have to be rejected.
What Is Really Quantum in Quantum Econophysics?
Authors: Arioli Gianni , Valente Giovanni
Published: February 2021

Econophysics is a branch of economics that applies concepts and methods from physics to the financial markets. This article focuses on the approaches to quantum finance developed by Kirill Ilinski and Belal E. Baaquie to deal with the uncertainty characterizing financial time series. Allegedly, their models rest on a formal analogy between quantum mechanics and finance. In order to evaluate them, we raise the question what is really quantum in quantum econophysics. We then argue that the supposed analogy breaks in an important manner, which is relevant to explain the empirical success of the proposed models.
Smart aerial monitoring system to prevent human wildlife intervention
Authors: Sri Harsha M , Sai Teja P , Mahapatra Punyasloka , Anand R
Published: February 2021

In India, agriculture is one of the crucial factors for inspecting India’s economy. Proper supervision ofthis sector leads to an exceptional yield. India, being a densely populated country, hasencountered frequent and often fatal conflicts due to the share of land and other natural resources among humans and the elephants, in specific. Recent statistics have exhibited that approximately 28000 elephants are distributed over 3% over India’s geographical area.Humanencroachment continues to grow around elephant habitats which results in colossal damage to the crop yield and human life. Technologies like AI and ML are prominent in unraveling the distinct challenges of the modern society. This paper focuses on the design and implementation of a IoT and ML enabled smart drone to intervene the association between humans and elephants to protect both human life as well as the crop yield.
Probiotic Activity and Antibiotic Sensitivity of Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Healthy Breastfed Newborn Baby Feces
Authors: Lase E , Davidson A L , Lister I N E , Fachrial E
Published: February 2021

Breast milk is a very nutritional food that helps with the production of good microbiota in the gut of an infant. Generally, two lactic acid bacteria (LAB), namely Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, are related to infant gut microbiota. LAB is often used as a probiotic agent, but some conditions required for every bacterium to be utilized for this purpose. This study aimed to investigate the acid and bile salt tolerance as a criterion of probiotic agent and antibiotic sensitivity of LAB isolated from the feces of a healthy breastfed newborn baby. The sample was obtained from the feces of the aforementioned subject (baby). The result showed that the total colony of LAB from the feces was 10.2 x 108 CFU/mL. In an acidic condition at pH 3, there was one isolate that had 100% viability in the first hour period, but all of them had 100% at bile salt tolerance. However, sensitivity test of the isolated LAB indicated resistance to 6 types of antibiotics namely Erythromycin 5 µg, Gentamicin 10 µg, Oxacillin 5 µg, Ofloxacin 5 µg, Amoxycillin 25 µg, and Cefotaxime 30 µg. The study showed that LAB isolated from healthy newborn baby feces have potency as a probiotic.
Optimised Genetic Algorithm Crossover and Mutation Stage for Vehicle Routing Problem Pick-Up and Delivery with Time Windows
Authors: Ibrahim M F , Nurhakiki F R , Utama D M , Rizaki A A
Published: February 2021

Some problems happen in transportation and distribution. Vehicle Routing Problem (VRP) can be applied in some systems above. Deciding the optimal route for every vehicle will impact increasing economic interests and expected logistical planning results. This research will raise the problem of a shipping and logistics company. There are 45 branch offices with one main depot to serve a certain area that will be a transit point before all packages will be sent to the destination. The vehicle will depart from the depot to all branch offices to delivers and pick the package up at certain hours. In every route, planning should be considered to the amount of load when loading and unloading. Every vehicle has carrying capacity, and every branch office has various loading and unloading service time windows. Based on the problem’s description, this research was conducted to find the optimal solution in the Vehicle Routing Problem Pick-up and Delivery with Time Windows (VRPPDTW). An optimised genetic algorithm was developed to solve these problems by adjusting the crossover and mutation stages. The result informs that the route proposed from optimised genetic algorithms is better than the company’s existing route in all aspects. On the other hand, we carried out an analysis effect of the number of iterations on distance traveled, the number of penalties, and the fitness value. This algorithm can be applied in VRPPDTW and produces an optimal solution.
Comparison of spectral responses of Cs2TiI6-
XBrX based Perovskite device with CdS and TiO2 Electron transport layer
Authors: Chakraborty Kunal , Paul Samrat
Published: February 2021

This article represents the spectral responses of a planar FTO/CdS or TiO2/Cs2TiI6-XBrX/CuSCN/Ag based structure where CdS and TiO2is used as Electron transport layer (ETL) and CuSCN as Hole transport layer (HTL) under 300 K temperature condition with the SCAPS-1D simulator. The simulation was performed at 750 nm thickness of Cs2TiI6-XBrX absorbing material where x = 0 to 6 to understand the quantum efficiency (QE) using two different ETL (CdS and TiO2). This article shows that TiO2as ETL has better spectral responses from 300 nm to 900 nm wavelength compare to CdS.
A review of NiO based composite electrode materials for electrochemical energy storage
Authors: Chatterjee Sujit , Bhattacharya Swapan Kumar
Published: February 2021

At the present era supercapacitor is widely recognized as the most promising energy-storage device to meet the challenges of high power-supply, long cycle life and reliability. From literature it has well established that the electrode material is one of the significant components to determine their performance. In this regard, the three—dimensional hierarchical mesoporous unique NiO nanocomposites with large surface area, high electrical conductivity, low equivalent series resistance and possibility of advantageous proportionate mixing of suitable components, demonstrate substantial promise for high performance supercapacitor applications, because of synergistic effect. This review summarizes the NiO based nanocomposites for supercapacitor electrode materials as well as a brief overview regarding supercapacitors active electrode materials.
Exciton and Bi-exciton Binding Energy Calculation in a Core Shell Quantum Dot
Authors: Rana Shivani , Kabi Sanjib , Misra Kamakhya Prakash , Chattopadhyay Saikat
Published: February 2021

We report the effect of shell thickness on exciton and biexciton binding energy calculation for a CdSe/ZnSe core shell quantum dot. Wentzel Kramers Brillouin approximation help us to create proper wave function for the system. It incorporates core shell boundary effect correctly. For excitons, the binding energy is affected by the Columbic confinement potentials and during biexciton binding energy calculation, the exchange and correlation effects were taken into account. It is observed that the excitonic binding energy shows an initial increase with increasing shell thickness but saturates for thick shell while it always gives a negative value for bi-excitonic binding energy. This confirms the existence of antibonding states for biexcitons.
Novel cryogenic coupling for loading LPG bullet truck
Authors: Bose Goutam Kumar , Mandal Tapas Kumar
Published: February 2021

This research work has been carried out in the Indian Oil Petronas private limited company’s plant located at Haldia, West Bengal, India. The study is related to the LPG Bullet Truck Loading. Due to higher customers (Cooking gas) demand it was necessary to improve the productivity of the gantry by about 10% to face the increasing demand. The time of LPG Bullet Truck fitting with loading arm needed improvement. This work is related to develop the bullet trucks loading capacity of the terminal to face the increasing demand. After successfully implementing the improved cryogenic coupling for loading the bullet truck the productivity improvement took place. The LPG bullet truck loading is increased average from 315 bullet trucks per day to 357 bullet trucks per day or LPG loading 5512.5 MT per day to 6247.5 MT per day i.e. equivalent to increase bullet trucks loading by 13 %. This will eventually save cost.
Effect of Particle Size on fluid flow and heat transfer in a Pipe with slurry flow
Authors: Mandal D. K. , Hazra A. , Biswas N.
Published: February 2021

A three-dimensional numerical simulation is carried out in a straight horizontal pipe to predict the impact of particle size on fluid flow and heat transfer of ash water slurry. Steady turbulent equations are solved by using commercial code Fluent. Eulerian Method is incorporated considering ash as granular material. Fly-ash particle diameter is varied with 12, 20, 28 and 34 µm suspended in water for a flow velocity 4m/s and solid concentration of 40%. The temperature of pipe wall is kept at 400K and the granular temp i.e. slurry temp is taken as 300K. Present study finds asymmetric velocity distribution at higher particle size. Pumping power increases with particle size. Granular pressure and heat transfer increases with particle size. Granular pressure is maximum at bottom of the wall.
Waste Cooking Oil Biodiesel: Its Testing, Performance and Emission in an Unaltered Diesel Engine
Authors: Samanta Abhishek , Adhikary Anindya , Roy Prokash C
Published: February 2021

Rapid climate changes with global warming are the primary dispute of the recent era cause of diesel engine emission. Among the probable fuels, biodiesel is the most promising one as the alternative of petroleum diesel. Biodiesel can be formed from residue of cooking oil by transesterification. The reaction rate can be increased with alkali Catalyst at a 55 °C temperature. The actions of waste cooking oil biodiesel (WCOB) compared with petroleum diesel were performed to observe the nature of an unaltered stationary diesel engine. In this study the specific fuels are: B10 biodiesel-diesel blend contained 10% WCOB and petroleum diesel (B0).The performance of an unaltered diesel engine fuelled with WCOB blend is examined in this study. In order to find out the performance results constant engine speed (1500 rpm) is being maintained during the experiments under 0%, 25%, 50% and 100% load conditions. It has been observed that when the engine setup was fuelled with WCOB blend B10, the performance depleted at mid to top load conditions but no drastic reduction in emission.
Mathematical Model Development of a Solar Assisted Liquid Desiccant Air Conditioning System with Fin Coil Dehumidifier
Authors: Paul S , Chowdhury S , Saha T , Ganguly A
Published: February 2021

A novel scheme of a solar assisted, liquid desiccant supported comfort air conditioning system has been proposed in this paper. The primary intent of the system is to supply air at 25°C and 52% relative humidity, even during the hot and humid summer months prevailing in the plains of sub-tropical countries like India. A mathematical model has been put forward to predict the output air temperature, humidity ratio and the effectiveness of dehumidifier as well as the regenerator. The predicted air humidity ratio has been validated against data available in the literature. The model has been used to predict the optimum mass flow rates required to achieve the desired output conditions for the selected location (Kolkata). The study thus strengthens the need and feasibility of solar assisted desiccant based air conditioning systems for the sub-tropical climates as a replacement of the traditional VCR (vapor compression refrigeration) systems.
Comparison of Vortex Induced Velocity Kinematics around Underwater Horizontal Cylinder with Vertical End Plate
Authors: Kuila A , Mukherjee B , Das S
Published: February 2021

Electrical energy is harnessed from various natural sources to protect the environment and ecology which is termed as green energy sources. When vortex is induced on a cylinder, it starts vibrating according to the formation of vortex. The vibration is so strong that it can destroy any structure wherever alternating vortex is induced. Currently Vortex Induced Vibration is used to harness electrical energy from ocean, river and shallow water channel. In this paper, experimental investigations were conducted in flume to analyse the behaviour of underwater flow structures around a 5 cm horizontal cylinder placed transversely to the flow at 60% and 70% depths from water surface and simultaneously a 5 cm wide vertical end plate set at 8 cm downstream from cylinder. Fluctuating 3D velocity components around such plate cylinder combination were measured. From subsequent plotted contours, changing flow patterns in presence of vertical plate are analysed. Hydrodynamic flow features are shown by plotting absolute velocity fields and velocity vectors. It visualizes that streamlines separate first and then passes over the periphery of horizontal cylinder. The contour of turbulence kinetic energy confirms the presence of strong vortex in between horizontal cylinder and vertical plate. The horseshoe vortex at the upstream of cylinder becomes stronger due to the presence of vertical plate. The results from these two experiments are compared with the results observed in previous researches. With the increase in cylinder depth from water surface, the horseshoe vortices strength becomes stronger.