bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Monitoring and Control of Cooler Tank Level Measurement In Gas Cleaning Plant (GCP)
Authors: Rajalakshmi P , Ponni Bala M , Aravind C , Suji Prasad S J 
Published: December 2020

AbstractThe Cooler Tank Level plays a major role in Gas Cleaning Plants (GCP) and it is a very important parameter to be measured and controlled. If the tank level is not maintained in nominal range, the dust particles will accumulate on the Cooler Tank and affect the process. The production of copper metal at Vedanta, Thoothukudi include Blending of various grades of copper concentrates, Smelting and Refining. Sulphur dioxide is generated from during the smelting of copper and is converted to Sulphuric acid as a byproduct. This process involves three steps such as cleaning of sulphur dioxide gas from Furnace, Catalytic conversion of S02 to SO3 and amalgamation of SO3 with sulphuric acid. The conversion process is exothermic, reversible and adiabatic reaction and hence if the temperature increases it destroys the formation of sulphur trioxide. Hence in order to achieve high conversion efficiency, the converter gases need to be cooled. The SO2 gas from smelter contains metallic dust, fume, acid mist, water vapour and other impurities like halides which will contaminate the product. Therefore the gases are to be cooled and cleaned in Gas Cleaning Plant (GCP). Cooler tank used to remove water vapour from the gas and dust settle at the bottom of cooler. Cooler tank level needs to be maintained in order to avoid overflow of water into scrubber which will block the inlet gas. The level of cooler tank is to be continuously monitored and controlled to achieve the optimum results. The limitations of using Differential Pressure Transmitter for level measurement are overcome by ultrasonic based level sensor and automated using Distributed Control System and Human Machine Interface (HMI).
A Review on Influencing Welding Parameters of Super Alloys
Authors: Raja S , Saranya R , SaiYaswanth V , SachinAdithya A , Rohith Kumar M B 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Manufacturing industries play a vibrant role in economic development and significant growth of a country. Among all different industries, sheet metal industry is irreplaceable in our routine life. Sheet metal applications include in automobiles, aircrafts, computer panels, building roofs etc. Various manufacturing process of sheet metal industry consists of shearing, bending, welding and deep drawing. Welding is one of the vital process in engineering business. Welding is the best operative method of joining similar and dissimilar components together. Choice of influencing process parameters is very much critical in welding for the purpose of obtaining good quality weldments with preferred mechanical properties and enhanced serviceability. This is impossible with single welding method that yields the optimum weld in all conditions. The choice of welding process depends upon the service environment, time, cost, and deposition rate. Superalloy is an alloy having greater mechanical strength and high corrosion resistance in high temperature applications. Superalloys are of, Nickel, Cobalt and Iron built possessing the crystal structure of Face Centered Cubic (FCC) austenitic. Typical examples of super alloys include Inconel, Hastelloy, Waspaloy, Rene alloys, Incoloy. Among these, Hastelloy is a nickel based superalloy containing the major proportion as Nickel 57%, Chromium 15.5% and Molybdenum 16% with the remaining in smaller proportions. Hastelloys are employed by the chemical industries for their Corrosion-Resistant property. The characteristics of Hastelloy include high resistance to localized corrosion in welding and fabrication. Hastelloy are of different grades optimised for specific purpose. Hastelloy alloys of “C-type” alloys are the most versatile. Hastelloy C276 alloy is a nickel alloy engaged in petro chemical and related industries possessing corrosive chemicals. Hastelloy C276 is ductile in nature, suitable for welding, forming and has high resistance to corrosion. Hastelloy C276 alloy is welded by the fusion welding process. The low quantity of carbon existence prevents carbide precipitation to keep resistance to inter granular attack in thermally affected zones. Every industry requires to attain a good quality of weld with great productivity and low processing cost with commanding weld joint.
Predict the Tensile Strength of Friction Welded Steel/ASS304L Dissimilar Joints
Authors: Rajendran C , Suryaprakash E , Sivasankar V , Suryaprakash P , Rohith K 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Due to their availability and unique features, mild steel and ASS 304 L were used for various applications such as shipbuilding, boiler, aircraft, and automotive industries. This alloy is welded by using method of fusion welding. In addition, the strength of welded joints has touched 60 percent of the strength of base materials. However, it is difficult to maintain quality weld when dissimilar steel is joined. Therefore, the choice of electrode, filler wire and other process parameters like current, voltage, shielding gas, etc. requires proper attention. Solid state joining process, friction welding (FW) process is an ideal process to get sound joint. Three major FW parameters such as rotational speed, friction force, and forging force have been used in this work to optimize FW parameters to maximize strength using statistical methodology such as variance analysis and experimental design methodology. From the results, the joint is welded at a rotational speed of 1000 rpm, forging pressure of 30 MPa and friction pressure of 30 MPa.
Impact of Baffle on Liquid Structure Connection in Fuel Tank Sloshing
Authors: Rohini D , Abinaya R , Lokesharun D , Karthik K , Sovishnuchringth V , Sivaprakash P 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The current age has a desire to do explore in sloshing because of its intriguing applications with regards to different fields, for example, estimation of surface profile, DIC [Digital Image Correlation] and so on. The specialists have accomplished effective statures in sloshing strategy, yet answer for sloshing is a major test. This is a direct result of its exceptionally nonlinear component. This undertaking is managed the examination of sloshing elements in airplane fuel tank and the impact presenting confounds. This undertaking is managed the examination of sloshing elements in airplane fuel tank and the impact presenting confounds. This additionally provides data for assurance in the powerful area of confounds through the extent of the tank to refine execution also limit disposition of the vehicle. This correlation is finished using outcomes from computational examination of both 2D and 3D.
Numerical and experimental investigation of fully-coupled and uncoupled finite element model for electromagnetic forming of Aluminium Alloy Al 3014
Authors: Khan Z , Khan M , Jaffery S H I , Younas M , Khan A 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Electromagnetic forming is a high-velocity forming process in which repulsive forces between conducting coil and workpiece are generated by mutual inductance, thus, creating opposite magnetic fields and Lorentz forces on conducting bodies. In such processes, the formability can be enhanced owing to the high-speed deformation of the material. This paper presents a fully-coupled numerical model and experimental study of the deformation behaviour of aluminium alloy (AL3014) using closed die magnetic pulse forming. The current density, magnetic flux density and Lorentz force of 1mm thick sheet were estimated numerically. The effect of deforming sheet on magnetic flux and induction was considered. As a result of which the percentage error in sheet deformation reduced from 10% for the existing uncoupled model to 5% for the fully coupled proposed model.
Teaching Epidemiology Online (Pandemic Edition)
Authors: Banack Hailey R , Lesko Catherine R , Whitcomb Brian C , Kobayashi Lindsay C 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
In response to the threat posed by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, many universities are encouraging or requiring online instruction. Teaching an epidemiology course online is different in many respects from teaching in person. In this article, we review specific approaches and strategies related to teaching epidemiology online during the pandemic and beyond, including a discussion of options for course format, grading and assessment approaches, pandemic-related contingencies, and the use of technology. Throughout this article we present practical, epidemiology-specific teaching examples. Moreover, we also examine 1) how the lessons learned about the practice of epidemiology during the pandemic can be integrated into the didactic content of epidemiology training programs and 2) whether epidemiologic pedagogy and teaching strategies should change in the long term, beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has served to heighten our awareness of concerns related to student health and safety, as well as issues of accessibility, equity, and inclusion. Our goal is to present a practical overview connecting pandemic-era online teaching with thoughts about the future of epidemiologic instruction.
The ERA-EDTA Registry Annual Report 2018: a summary
Authors: Kramer Anneke , Boenink Rianne , Stel Vianda S , Santiuste de Pablos Carmen , Tomović Filip , Golan Eliezer , Kerschbaum Julia , Seyahi Nurhan , Ioanou Kyriakos , Beltrán Palma , Zurriaga Oscar , Magaz Ángela , Slon Roblero María F , Gjorgjievski Nikola , Garneata Liliana , Arribas Federico , Galvão Ana A , Bell Samira , Ots-Rosenberg Mai , Muñoz-Terol José M , Winzeler Rebecca , Hommel Kristine , Åsberg Anders , Spustova Viera , Palencia García María Ángeles , Vazelov Evgueniy , Finne Patrik , ten Dam Marc A G J , Lopot František , Trujillo-Alemán Sara , Lassalle Mathilde , Kolesnyk Mykola O , Santhakumaran Shalini , Idrizi Alma , Andrusev Anton , Comas Farnés Jordi , Komissarov Kirill , Resić Halima , Palsson Runolfur , Kuzema Viktorija , Garcia Bazaga Maria Angeles , Ziginskiene Edita , Stendahl Maria , Bonthuis Marjolein , Massy Ziad A , Jager Kitty J 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Background
The European Renal Association – European Dialysis and Transplant Association (ERA-EDTA) Registry collects data on kidney replacement therapy (KRT) via national and regional renal registries in Europe and countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. This article summarizes the 2018 ERA-EDTA Registry Annual Report, and describes the epidemiology of KRT for kidney failure in 34 countries.

Methods
Individual patient data on patients undergoing KRT in 2018 were provided by 34 national or regional renal registries and aggregated data by 17 registries. The incidence and prevalence of KRT, the kidney transplantation activity and the survival probabilities of these patients were calculated.

Results
In 2018, the ERA-EDTA Registry covered a general population of 636 million people. Overall, the incidence of KRT for kidney failure was 129 per million population (p.m.p.), 62% of patients were men, 51% were ≥65 years of age and 20% had diabetes mellitus as cause of kidney failure. Treatment modality at the onset of KRT was haemodialysis (HD) for 84%, peritoneal dialysis (PD) for 11% and pre-emptive kidney transplantation for 5% of patients. On 31 December 2018, the prevalence of KRT was 897 p.m.p., with 57% of patients on HD, 5% on PD and 38% living with a kidney transplant. The transplant rate in 2018 was 35 p.m.p.: 68% received a kidney from a deceased donor, 30% from a living donor and for 2% the donor source was unknown. For patients commencing dialysis during 2009–13, the unadjusted 5-year survival probability was 42.6%. For patients receiving a kidney transplant within this period, the unadjusted 5-year survival probability was 86.6% for recipients of deceased donor grafts and 93.9% for recipients of living donor grafts.
Estimated Impacts of Emerald Ash Borer on Ash Timber Supply in Texas, USA
Authors: VanderSchaaf Curtis L , McConnell T Eric , Tanger Shaun M 
Published: December 2020

AbstractWe estimated annual timber growth, removals, and mortalities under various scenarios of the spread of emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire; EAB) within Texas. Future annual ash EAB-induced mortalities were simulated to follow either a normal or beta distribution over 25, 50, or 75 years, with five percent of the original inventory remaining at the conclusion of each projection. Discounted present values of future ash growth, harvests, mortalities, salvage, and beginning and ending annual inventories were calculated, and economic impacts to timber receipts were determined from average real prices. The present net effects of timber product output, mortalities, and salvage resulted in benefits ranging from lows of (delivered/stumpage) $37.6/$12.8 million over 25 years when assuming a normal distribution to highs of $247.8/$97.2 million over 75 years under a beta distribution. Salvage intensity exceeded mortality accumulation by a factor of at least 2.00. Regardless of length chosen, mortality that skewed toward later years led to lower discounted volumes and less value lost to EAB. Results were sensitive to discount rate selection (constant, increasing, distributional) with the constant and increasing rates having the most similar results. Longer time horizons led to far smaller losses of overall economic returns allowing more typical harvest management despite EAB.
Spontaneous trans-anal evisceration of small bowel: a case report
Authors: Lasheen Omar 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Trans-anal evisceration of small bowel is a rare surgical presentation. The first case ever reported was in 1827. The exact mechanism of how this develops remains poorly understood.
A 70-year-old lady presented with multiple small bowel loops eviscerated through the anus. Abdominal exploration was done. The bowel was carefully reduced. There was a longitudinal defect on the anterior wall of the rectum at the recto-sigmoid junction and a large mesenteric defect and thrombosed mesenteric vessels compromising blood supply to part of the bowel. Resection of 50 cm of ileum, jejunostomy and a mucous fistula were performed.
Several preexisting pathologies such as rectal prolapse can result in thinning out of the wall of the rectum. That combined with increased intra-abdominal pressure can explain trans-anal evisceration of the bowel. This condition is managed by surgical intervention. The operation will depend on the extent of viability, contamination and patient’s general condition.
Expectant management of traumatic intussusception
Authors: Swift Kate , Kulendran Krish 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Mesenteric injuries and traumatic intussusception are rare surgical presentations following blunt trauma, with potentially life-threatening complications. Diagnosis relies on high clinical suspicion and judicious use of imaging in trauma. Literature suggests that these presentations should always be managed operatively for diagnostic clarity, manual reduction of intussusception and, if indicated, resection of involvement segment. However, in the setting of a stable patient with a reassuring examination, this may not be necessary. This case presents the successful expectant management of a traumatic mesenteric haematoma acting as a pathologic lead point for small bowel intussusception.
Improved Antibiotic Prescribing Practices for Respiratory Infections Through Use of Computerized Order Sets and Educational Sessions in Pediatric Clinics
Authors: Zahlanie Yorgo , Mang Norman S , Lin Kevin , Hynan Linda S , Prokesch Bonnie C 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Background
Computerized clinical decision support systems (CDSS) have shown promising effectiveness in improving outpatient antibiotic prescribing.

Methods
We developed an intervention in the form of EPIC (Verona, WI, USA) order sets comprised of outpatient treatment pathways for 3 pediatric bacterial acute respiratory infections (ARIs) coupled with educational sessions. Four pediatric clinics were randomized into intervention and control arms over pre- and postimplementation study periods. In the intervention clinics, education was provided in between the 2 study periods and EPIC order sets became available at the beginning of the postimplementation period. The primary end point was the percentage of first-line antibiotic prescribing, and the secondary end points included antibiotic duration and antibiotic prescription modification within 14 days.

Results
A total of 2690 antibiotic prescriptions were included. During the pre-implementation phase, there was no difference in first-line antibiotic prescribing (74.9% vs 77.7%; P = .211) or antibiotic duration (9.69 ± 0.96 days vs 9.63 ± 1.07 days; P &gt; .999) between the study arms. Following implementation, the intervention clinics had a higher percentage of first-line antibiotic prescribing (83.1% vs 77.7%; P = .024) and shorter antibiotic duration (9.28 ± 1.56 days vs 9.79 ± 0.75 days; P &lt; .001) compared with the control clinics. The percentage of modified antibiotics was small in all clinics (1.1%–1.6%) and did not differ before and after the intervention (for all statistical comparisons, P ≤ .354).

Conclusions
A computerized CDSS involving treatment pathways in the form of order sets coupled with educational sessions was associated with a higher percentage of first-line antibiotic prescribing and shorter antibiotic duration for the outpatient treatment of pediatric bacterial ARIs.
Propensity-Matched Cost of Clostridioides difficile Infection Overdiagnosis
Authors: Madden Gregory R , Smith David C , Poulter Melinda D , Sifri Costi D 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Background
Clostridioides difficile is the leading health care–associated pathogen, but clinicians lack a test that can reliably differentiate colonization from infection. Health care costs attributed to C. difficile are substantial, but the economic burden associated with C. difficile false positives is poorly understood.

Methods
A propensity score matching model for cost per hospitalization was developed to estimate the costs of both true infection and false positives. Predictors of C. difficile positivity used to estimate the propensity score were age, Charlson comorbidity index, white cell count, and creatinine. We used polymerase chain reaction (PCR) cycle threshold to identify and compare 3 groups: (1) true infection, (2) C. difficile colonization, and (3) C. difficile negative.

Results
A positive test was associated with $3018 higher unadjusted hospital cost. Among the 3 comparisons made with propensity-matched negative controls (all positives [+$179; P = .934], true positives [–$1892; P = .100], and colonized positives), only colonization was associated with significantly increased (+$3418; P = .012) cost. Differences in lengths of stay (all positives 0 days, P = .126; true 0 days, P = .919; colonized 1 day, P = .019) appeared to underly cost differences.

Conclusions
In the first C. difficile cost analysis to utilize PCR cycle threshold to differentiate colonization, we found high propensity-matched hospital costs associated with colonized but not true positives. This unexpected finding may be due to misdiagnosis of non–C. difficile diarrhea or unadjusted factors associated with colonization.
Low but Increasing Prevalence of Reduced Beta-lactam Susceptibility Among Invasive Group B Streptococcal Isolates, US Population-Based Surveillance, 1998–2018
Authors: Kobayashi Miwako , McGee Lesley , Chochua Sopio , Apostol Mirasol , Alden Nisha B , Farley Monica M , Harrison Lee H , Lynfield Ruth , Vagnone Paula Snippes , Smelser Chad , Muse Alison , Thomas Ann R , Deng Li , Metcalf Benjamin J , Beall Bernard W , Schrag Stephanie J 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Background
Invasive group B Streptococcus (iGBS) isolates with mutations in the pbp2x gene that encodes penicillin binding protein 2x can have reduced beta-lactam susceptibility (RBLS) when susceptible by Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) criteria. We assessed the emergence and characteristics of RBLS strains in US iGBS isolates.

Methods
We analyzed iGBS isolates from 8 multistate population-based surveillance sites from 1998 to 2018. During 1998–2014, phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by broth microdilution; criteria for 6 antibiotics were used to identify RBLS, followed by whole-genome sequencing (WGS). WGS for all isolates was added in 2015; we used phenotypic and genotypic results of &gt;2000 isolates to validate phenotypic RBLS criteria and genotypic predictions. Since 2016, WGS has been used to screen for RBLS with broth microdilution confirmation of predicted RBLS isolates.

Results
Of 28 269 iGBS isolates, 28 (0.1%) were nonsusceptible by CLSI criteria; 137 (0.5%) met RBLS criteria. RBLS isolates were detected in all Active Bacterial Core surveillance sites. The RBLS proportion increased, especially since 2013 (odds ratio, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.03–1.32); the proportion that were nonsusceptible remained stable.

Conclusions
The RBSL proportion was low but increasing among US iGBS isolates. Ongoing monitoring is needed to detect emerging threats to prevention and treatment of GBS infections.
Portable Magnetic Resonance Imaging for ICU Patients
Authors: Turpin Justin , Unadkat Prashin , Thomas Justin , Kleiner Nick , Khazanehdari Shahab , Wanchoo Sheshali , Samuel Kenia , Moclair Betsy O. , Black Karen , Dehdashti Amir R. , Narayan Raj K. , Temes Richard , Schulder Michael 
Published: December 2020

Objectives:
Patients in ICUs often require neuroimaging to rule out a wide variety of intracranial problems. CT may be available in the ICU itself, but MRI has greater sensitivity for many conditions that affect the brain. However, transporting patients who are on ventilators and other life-sustaining devices is a labor-intensive process and involves placing the patient at risk for adverse events. This is a report of portable MRI in a clinical setting.

Design:
This is a prospective, nonrandomized, observational study at one institution, utilizing a 0.064-T, self-shielding, portable MRI in ventilated patients in an ICU setting.

Setting:
Academic medical center.

Patients:
Nineteen patients with laboratory-confirmed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. Patients selected for imaging had any of the following: 1) unexplained encephalopathy or coma, 2) seizures, 3) focal neurologic deficit, or 4) abnormal head CT. Imaging was performed in each patient’s ICU room with a portable, self-shielding, 0.064-T MRI.

Interventions:
None.

Measurements and Main Results:
Among 19 patients, 20 MRI scans in seven ICUs were acquired between April 13, 2020, and April 23, 2020. No adverse events to patients or staff from MRI acquisition were reported. In 12 patients, abnormal findings were seen, which included increased fluid attenuated inversion recovery signal (n = 12), hemorrhage (n = 3), and diffusion-weighted imaging positivity (n =3). Imaging led to changes in clinical management in five patients.

Conclusions:
In this case series of patients, use of portable MRI has been found to be safe, feasible, and led to changes in clinical management based on imaging results. However, future studies comparing results with other imaging modalities are required to understand fully the extent of its clinical utility.