Instrumentation System Research Articles

Short-term outcomes of da Vinci SP versus Xi for rectal cancer surgery: a propensity score matching analysis of two tertiary center cohorts.

This study compares the perioperative outcomes of robotic rectal cancer surgery between da Vinci single-port (SP) system, the most recent system allowing minimally invasive surgery with reduced ports, and the da Vinci Xi system. Patients who underwent robotic surgery for rectal adenocarcinoma from January 2016 to September 2023 at two tertiary referral centers were included. A retrospective analysis was conducted to compare key parameters between patient cohorts before and after propensity score matching. A total of 378 patients (SP, 65 vs. Xi, 313) were analyzed. The SP group comprised a higher proportion of females (44.6% vs. 28.4%; p = 0.016) and a higher tumor location (8.25cm vs. 6.71cm from the anal verge; p < 0.001) than did the Xi group. SP surgery promoted a shorter total incision length (4.9 cm vs. 9.2 cm; p < 0.001), lower maximum pain scores (5 vs. 7; p < 0.001), and shorter hospital stay (6 vs. 7days; p < 0.001) than did Xi surgery. Operation time (175 vs. 182min; p = 0.829) and postoperative complications (9.2% vs. 12.1%; p = 0.650) did not significantly differ between the groups. Lower lying rectal tumors were more frequently treated using the Xi system than the SP system, promoting a higher diverting stoma rate (13.8% vs. 45.4%; p < 0.001) and a lower anastomosis level (4.6cm vs. 3.3cm; p < 0.001). After 1:1 matching, SP maintained its advantages over Xi in terms of incision length (p < 0.001), maximum pain scores (p = 0.001), and hospital stay (p < 0.001). Overall postoperative complication rates were similar between both groups (10.8% vs. 12.3%; p = 0.777). The da Vinci SP system continues to offer minimal invasive benefits in rectal cancer surgery. However, the Xi system's instrument diversity provides a certain advantage, particularly in cases involving low-lying rectal tumors. Tailoring robotic approaches based on individual patient characteristics remains pivotal for optimizing outcomes of rectal cancer surgery.

Comparative analysis of the effectiveness of mechanical treatment of root canals by various Ni-Ti file systems

INTRODUCTION. One of the main stages of successful endodontic treatment is high-quality mechanical treatment of root canals. А large number of various rotary Ni-Ti files in the dental market poses a difficult choice for the doctor, especially in the context of import substitution. It is necessary to have knowledge about the effectiveness of different system of instruments in a particular clinical case. AIM. With the help of scanning electronic mycoroscopy and computer microtomography, to analyze the quality of mechanical treatment of the root canal with files of domestic and foreign production.MATERIALS AND METHODS. During the study, single-root and multi-root teeth with different root canal curvature were selected, which were distributed according to the Ni-Ti file system used: group 1 – RM files (RusMed), group 2 – ProTaper Universal (Dentsply Mallifier), group 3 – M-two (VDW).RESULTS. The analysis of scanning electron microscopy of tooth showed that the largest number of open dentine tubules is determined when treating the root canal with instruments of the group 1 (55.4±1.37) and group 3 (60.25±1.59). The centering ability with a curvature of the root canal of 20–25° had no significant differences between the tools used. With a curvature of the root canal of 40–45°, the value of this parameter decreased significantly in all groups of instruments, it was greatest in the groups 1 and 3.CONCLUSION. It was revealed that the best quality of mechanical treatment of the root canal was obtained using RM-files and Mtwo in samples with a channel curvature of up to 25°.

A dynamic system reliability analysis model on safety instrumented systems

This paper introduces a novel hybrid dynamic model for complex systems reliability assessment. The model synergizes expert knowledge elicitation and an enhanced Dempster-Shafer Theory (DST) with Dynamic Bayesian Networks (DBNs) modeling, aiming to surmount the limitations such as uncertainty and static modeling inherent in traditional methods. The proposed model is deployed on a Safety Instrumented System (SIS) designed to prevent runaway reactions within a Continuously Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR), considering factors such as system degradation, human interventions, and proof testing on system reliability. The analysis pinpointed the logic solver subsystem as the principal vulnerability within the assessed SIS, leading to targeted recommendations to bolster system reliability. The outcomes offer insights for a wide range of safety-critical systems aiming to augment the safety and efficacy of SISs, thereby advancing safety and resilience management across various complex engineering systems, particularly in contexts where field data is scant.

A-118 Sigma Metric Performance of Chemistry Assays on 4 Instrument Systems

Abstract Background Chemistry panels play a crucial role in determining a person’s general health and well-being. These tests evaluate electrolyte balance and the status of several major organs. The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) and Lipid Panel constitute approximately 87% of the blood tests prescribed in medical laboratories. Laboratories monitor assay performance by performing proficiency testing using quality controls (QC). College of American Pathologists (CAP) data is useful for laboratories to compare their proficiency testing performance to other laboratories and instrument systems. Sigma metrics serve as a valuable tool for laboratories to assess the quality and accuracy of their tests. Sigma scores vary from 0 to 6, with the 6 score designated as world-class performance, 5 as excellent, 4 as good, 3 as marginal, and 2 as poor. The analytical performance of 16 clinical assays from Abbott, Beckman, Roche, and Siemens instrument systems were compared using Sigma metrics. Methods Sigma metrics of 16 chemistry analytes were compared across 4 instruments system using CAP data from three reports (C-A 2023, C-C 2023 and C-B 2022). The 4 systems evaluated were Abbott Alinity ci, Beckman AU, Roche COBAS c500/c303 and Siemens Atellica CH. Method imprecision was estimated for each assay using the cumulative coefficient of variation or standard deviation for each assay at a single QC concentration and calculating the average sigma. Since sigma levels can be concentration-dependent, an equivalent CAP sample concentration was chosen for each instrument system evaluation. Method bias was estimated by evaluating each method QC mean to the peer group mean. Sigma values were calculated for each method as Sigma = (TEa - |Bias|) / Precision using the allowable total error from 2014 Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) proposed acceptance limits. Average Sigma values were generated for each analyte and graded as an optimal Sigma score. Results The sigma scores varied across assays and instrument systems. Abbott demonstrated the best overall performance. Specifically, the Abbott Alinity system had the highest number (7/16, 44%) of assays at 5 sigma or higher, with Siemens showing the lowest number of assays at 5 Sigma or higher (1/16, 6%). Of the 16 assays evaluated, Abbott has the fewest assays at or below the 3 sigma threshold (5/16) when compared to Roche (7/16), Beckman (7/16), and Siemens (9/16). Sigma scores were comparable between the Abbott ARCHITCT and Alinity clinical chemistry systems. Conclusions Sigma metrics are useful in assessing the performance of clinical assays. Assays with high Sigma have better performance due to lower imprecision and higher accuracy. None of the instrument systems demonstrated optimal six sigma performance for all analytes. However, Abbott demonstrated the best overall performance.

A-334 Vital one: a point-of-care platform for rapid, comprehensive, central-lab quality blood testing

Abstract Background Diagnostic tools are fundamental to informed healthcare decisions, but the current state of in vitro diagnostics presents barriers to providing timely access to a wide menu of tests. This poster discusses a method for overcoming these challenges with a novel and miniaturized point-of-care (PoC) solution, the VitalOneTM. While many PoC solutions have limited test menus tailored for specific scenarios, Vital Biosciences introduces a comprehensive test menu in a compact PoC format that uses centrifugal microfluidic workflows to deliver quantitative results for over 50 analytes spanning hematology, clinical chemistry, and immunoassay modalities, ensuring central-lab quality results for a wide variety of use cases in a 20-min time frame (or 15 min for a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) lipid panel, and liver panel). The VitalOneTM is designed to perform a complete blood count (CBC), a comprehensive panel with a full array of immunoassays and clinical chemistry assays, returning over 50 results with as little as 300-750 µL of whole blood. This poster provides a comprehensive and transparent view of both our results and underlying methods of operation. By comparing the VitalOneTM system with established benchmarks like Roche, Sysmex, and Beckman Coulter instrument systems, we demonstrate consistent assay performance, resilience to interference, and performance that is compliant with CLIA Total Allowable Error standards. Methods A method comparison analysis of measurements on VitalOneTM platform was performed against predicate instruments that are commonly used in centralized laboratories (Roche Cobas, Beckman AU480, Beckman Coulter DxH500, Beckman Access 2, and Sysmex 140). Additionally, a 5-8 point calibration curve was generated for each analyte across the desired assay measuring range (AMR) using commercially available validation kits on three separate days, resulting in a master calibration curve. To check for sensitivity to potential interferences that may be present in patient samples, endogenous and exogenous interference testing was performed following Clinical &amp; Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Lastly, robustness testing was carried out to mimic the extremes of variances in volumes, times, or temperatures that may be encountered when running an assay protocol. Results The method comparison analysis (n = 840 samples) and precision studies revealed that the VitalOne exhibited a strong correlation with the benchmark instruments and were in compliance with CLIA's total allowable error limits, reinforcing the reliability and clinical relevance of our diagnostic system. Assays across Hematology, Clinical Chemistry, and immunoassays demonstrated &amp;gt;95% of data within CLIA TEa% and run-to-run imprecision ≤ 5%. Additionally, linearity studies revealed that each analyte AMR spans across physiologically relevant concentrations, defined by medical decision levels and reference intervals for each analyte. Our robustness and endogenous and exogenous interference testing performed as per CLSI guidelines has demonstrated that the VitalOneTM system closely matches, and in certain parameters, such as biotin interference, even surpasses that of the predicate instruments. Conclusions In summary, the VitalOneTM platform represents a significant advancement in point-of-care diagnostics, offering a comprehensive, accurate, and efficient alternative to traditional laboratory testing. This innovation is poised to transform the way clinicians approach diagnostics, enabling more informed decision-making and ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.

Factors Controlling Mud Floc Settling Velocity in a Highly Turbid Macrotidal Fluvial‐Estuarine System

AbstractThis study assesses the settling dynamics of suspended sediments along the hyper‐turbid Gironde Garonne fluvial‐estuarine system, with an innovative optical SCAF instrument (System of Characterization of Aggregates and Flocs). Two fields campaigns were carried out to determine the settling velocity and properties of suspended sediments during a semi‐diurnal tidal cycle, as well as hydrodynamic conditions and water properties. The two sampling stations were representative of two regions: a tidal river dominated by fresh water and an estuary affected by salty or brackish waters. A high spatial variability of the settling velocity was observed along the fluvial‐estuarine system and vertically along the water column. Settling velocities ranged from 0.02 to 0.4 mm/s. This study confirms that in hyper‐turbid systems, the suspended sediment concentration (SSC) is predominantly driving the settling dynamics of suspended sediment. Threshold concentrations have been defined for the flocculation and hindered regimes where the settling velocity may vary by one order of magnitude. Although in natural environments it is difficult to distinguish between the effects of SSC and turbulence (as they are correlated), in the Gironde‐Garonne system the turbulent shear G seems to affect the settling of suspended sediment to a lower extent. Settling velocity variations cannot be directly correlated to salinity or organic matter content. Despite differences in hydrodynamic and environmental conditions in fluvial and estuarine regions, a common prediction law has been found to estimate settling velocity of suspended sediment as a function of suspended sediment concentration.

Comparative Analysis of NiTi Instruments with Different Alloy Treatments.

This study aims to compare the cyclic fatigue resistance of nickel-titanium (NiTi) endodontic instruments, focusing on the impact of various alloy treatments and manufacturing processes across different generations of these instruments; Twenty instrumentation systems from different generations, comprising both continuous and reciprocating motion designs, were tested. Four hundred instruments underwent cyclic fatigue testing using an INSTRON machine, with the time and number of cycles to fracture (NCF) recorded for each instrument. Statistical analyses were performed to compare the fatigue resistance between systems, generations, and motion types; Instruments treated with advanced thermal processing, such as Excalibur, Reciproc Blue, and TruNatomy, demonstrated superior resistance to fracture, whereas systems like Protaper Universal, K3XF, and 2Shape showed the lowest resistance. Reciprocating instruments generally exhibited higher cyclic fatigue resistance than continuously rotating instruments; Technological advancements in NiTi instrument design, especially the implementation of heat-treated alloys, have improved cyclic fatigue resistance, enhancing the safety and efficiency of endodontic treatments. Reciprocating systems, in particular, exhibit superior fracture resistance, suggesting their greater utility in challenging clinical conditions.

Field assessments on the impact of CO2 concentration fluctuations along with complex-terrain flows on the estimation of the net ecosystem exchange of temperate forests

Abstract. CO2 storage (Fs) is the cumulation or depletion in CO2 amount over a period in an ecosystem. Along with the eddy covariance flux and wind-stream advection of CO2, it is a major term in the net ecosystem CO2 exchange (NEE) equation. The CO2 storage dominates the NEE equation under a stable atmospheric stratification when the equation is used for forest ecosystems over complex terrains. However, estimating Fs remains challenging due to the frequent gusts and random fluctuations in boundary-layer flows that lead to tremendous difficulties in capturing the true trend of CO2 changes for use in storage estimation from eddy covariance along with atmospheric profile techniques. Using measurements from Qingyuan Ker Towers equipped with NEE instrument systems separately covering mixed broad-leaved, oak, and larch forest towers in a mountain watershed, this study investigates gust periods and CO2 fluctuation magnitudes and examines their impact on Fs estimation in relation to the terrain complexity index (TCI). The gusts induce CO2 fluctuations for numerous periods of 1 to 10 min over 2 h. Diurnal, seasonal, and spatial differences (P &lt; 0.01) in the maximum amplitude of CO2 fluctuations (Am) range from 1.6 to 136.7 ppm, and these differences range from 140 to 170 s in a period (Pm) at the same significance level. Am and Pm are significantly correlated to the magnitude of and random error in Fs with diurnal and seasonal differences. These correlations decrease as CO2 averaging time windows become longer. To minimize the uncertainties in Fs, a constant [CO2] averaging time window for the Fs estimates is not ideal. Dynamic averaging time windows and a decision-level fusion model can reduce the potential underestimation of Fs by 29 %–33 % for temperate forests in complex terrain. In our study, the relative contribution of Fs to the 30 min NEE observations ranged from 17 % to 82 % depending on turbulent mixing and the TCI. The study's approach is notable as it incorporates the TCI and utilizes three flux towers for replication, making the findings relevant to similar regions with a single tower.

An ultrawideband conducted emission Direct-Coupling Probe calibration method

Conducted emission (CE) measurement is essential to integrated circuit (IC) electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing, and accurate calibration of testing equipment is the prerequisite for the reliability of IC CE measurement. This paper proposes an ultrawideband Direct-Coupling Probe (DCP) calibration method. It can effectively improve the deficiencies of the calibration method described in standard IEC 61967-4. Impedance matching calibration fixtures were developed, and a de-embedding algorithm based on time domain reflectometry (TDR) and microwave scattering parameter measurement was proposed. This method can theoretically extend the calibration frequency range of DCP to 20 GHz. The experiment verifies the combination of the algorithm and fixtures can effectively suppress the reflection and ripple caused by the impedance mismatch between the instrument system and DCP and improve the accuracy and repeatability of the measurement process. Factors affecting calibration results, such as fixture characteristic impedance, grounding, and time window selection, are also analyzed and discussed.

The Determination of On-Water Rowing Stroke Kinematics Using an Undecimated Wavelet Transform of a Rowing Hull-Mounted Accelerometer Signal.

Boat acceleration profiles can provide valuable information for coaches and practitioners to make meaningful technical interventions and monitor the determinants of success in rowing. Previous studies have used simple feature detection methods to identify key phases within individual strokes, such as drive onset, drive time, drive offset and stroke time. However, based on skill level, technique or boat class, the hull acceleration profile can differ, making robust feature detection more challenging. The current study's purpose is to employ the undecimated wavelet transform (UWT) technique to detect individual features in the stroke acceleration profile from a single rowing hull-mounted accelerometer. In this investigation, the temporal and kinematic values obtained using the AdMosTM sensor in conjunction with the UWT processing approach were strongly correlated with the comparative measures of the Peach™ instrumented oarlock system. The measures for stroke time displayed very strong agreeability between the systems for all boat classes, with ICC values of 0.993, 0.963 and 0.954 for the W8+, W4- and W1x boats, respectively. Similarly, the drive time was also very consistent, with strong to very strong agreeability, producing ICC values of 0.937, 0.901 and 0.881 for the W8+, W4- and W1x boat classes. Further, a Bland-Altman analysis displayed little to no bias between the AdMosTM-derived and Peach™ measures, indicating that there were no systematic discrepancies between signals. This single-sensor solution could form the basis for a simple, cost-effective and accessible alternative to multi-sensor instrumented systems for the determination of sub-stroke kinematic phases.

Evaluating Methods of Software Bill of Materials Generation to Enhance Nuclear Power Plant Cybersecurity

Instrumentation and control (I&C) systems in nuclear power plants (NPPs) are potential targets of cyberattacks and can prove deleterious for the safety of the NPPs. A Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) provides a detailed list of the various components and their dependencies in software, which helps in vulnerability and risk assessment for cyber hygiene and situational awareness. For an NPP, the process of generating an accurate SBOM report can be complex due to the legacy systems and firmware binaries involved. While most current SBOM tools are focused more on modern internet technology software, this research provides insights and guidelines for an NPP to generate an accurate and efficient SBOM. The paper proposes a new methodology to help NPPs categorize software and use appropriate tools to generate SBOMs for their digital I&C systems.

Development Planning and Forecasting Fleet of Tractors and Grain Harvesters of the Agro-Industrial Complex of the Republic of Kazakhstan

The methodological provisions on the justification and forecasting by the method of astrological modeling of the needs of the agro-industrial complex of Kazakhstan in agricultural machinery for plant growing on the basis of data of tractors and combine harvesters are given in the work. Prepared within the framework of the grant Project of the State Institution “Science Committee” of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan on topic No. AP19678876 “Effective system of macroeconomic instruments for state regulation of innovative development of the agro-industrial complex of the Republic of Kazakhstan”

A novel sensor-based digital instrument for assessment of quality of fibre extracted from banana pseudostem

Banana (Musa paradisiaca) farming generates huge quantities of biomass, all of which goes to waste due to the non-availability of suitable technology for its commercial application. The potential solution to this issue could be the conversion of pseudo-stems into valuable assets by converting them into fibres for various textile and non-textile applications. The specific characteristics of banana pseudo-stem fibre i.e. high absorptivity, breathability and biodegradability made it sustainable as well as suitable for the development of diversified products and blending with other natural fibres. However, non-uniformity in availability, obscurity of its intended uses and lack of knowledge for assessment of fibre quality posed a biggest hurdle to reach the fibre into the textile markets. Hence, a novel sensor-based digital instrument for assessing the quality parameters i.e. bundle strength and fineness along with overall grade of banana pseudo-stem fibre is presented in this research article. The developed instrument mainly consists of a fibre bundle strength measurement unit, fineness measuring unit and visual interface cum data acquisition unit. Test results indicated that bundle strength and fineness measured by developed instrument varied from 20.92 g/tex to 28.31 g/tex and 5.63 tex to 6.41 tex respectively. Furthermore, a good correlation between the measured and actual outputs of bundle strength (One-Way ANOVA, F28,2 = 3.914, P = 0.224), fineness (One-Way ANOVA, F51,2 = 4.730, P = 0.190) and overall quality of fibre (Independent sample T-Test, F34,1 = 0.95, P = 0.190). Was observed at 5 % level of significance. The present study also introduced a grading system for quality assessment of banana fibre based on the well-established and well-recognized grading system of jute fibre developed by Indian Standard (IS: 271 2020). The developed instrument is easy to build as well as easy to use and have an approximate cost of $1800.00. The combination of developed instrument and grading system is an accurate, feasible and time-ordered technique for the assessment of the overall quality of the banana fibre and well suited for the actual conditions.

Major root endodontic treatments: a systematic review

Introduction: In the root canal treatment scenario, irrigation is one of the most important aspects of the biomechanical preparation of the root canal. A condition for successful endodontic retreatment is adequate cleaning of the root canals, therefore, special attention should be paid to the technique used to remove the filling material, the most commonly used being cement, pastes, and gutta-percha cones. Objective: This study aimed to present the main root endodontic treatments to analyze and compare the techniques for removing pulp tissue debris resulting from root preparation and microorganisms from the canals of the root canal system, seeking complete cleaning and asepsis. Methods: The PRISMA Platform systematic review rules were followed. The search was conducted from April to July 2024 in the Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Scielo, and Google Scholar databases. The quality of the studies was based on the GRADE instrument and the risk of bias was analyzed according to the Cochrane instrument. Results and Conclusion: 129 articles were found, 39 were evaluated and 21 were included in this systematic review. Considering the Cochrane tool for risk of bias, the global assessment resulted in 25 studies with a high risk of bias and 27 studies that did not meet GRADE. Most studies showed homogeneity in their results, with X2 =91.5% &gt;50%. It was concluded that the system of root canal instrumentation with rotary files maintains the quality of root preparation and, at the same time, reduces the number of files required to obtain a canal, which would consequently reduce the operative time and also considerably reduce the risk of torsion fracture within the root canal than with files. Irrigation plays a fundamental role in the success of endodontic treatment. Although hypochlorite is the most important irrigant solution, no irrigant can perform all the tasks required by irrigation. A detailed understanding of the mode of action of various solutions is important for optimal irrigation. Within the limitations of this study, the use of the self-adjusting file with the combination of EDTA and NaOCl improved Ca(OH)2 removal. Passive ultrasonic irrigation and the self-adjusting file were more effective in removing Ca(OH)2 from the lateral sulci in the apical parts of the root canal than the EndoVac and conventional syringe irrigation systems.

It's not just about the sun, it's about a living: Rural older farmers' experience of skin cancer risk and prevention.

To understand rural older farmers' perspectives and attitudes toward skin cancer risk and prevention. This study used a grounded theory approach and semi-structured interviews with 12 rural older farmers (farm owners, farmworkers ages 50 years or older) in Washington. Participants' perspectives were explored relative to Health Belief Model constructs. Inductive and deductive analyses were used to generate relevant themes. COREQ guidelines were followed. The findings fit well and extended the Health Belief Model, which was used to arrange key themes identified in relation to skin cancer risk and prevention, specifically participants' perceived barriers to accessing primary care and protection when outdoors, perceived benefits of sun-protective behaviors, perceived hereditary susceptibility to skin cancer, perceived severity of the increased skin cancer risk, and cues to action for skin checks. A new construct of hope was identified to emphasize the importance of establishing emotional, instrumental, and informational support systems for promoting skin cancer prevention. Participants also indicated their hope of raising awareness of skin cancer prevention among all ages. Findings highlighted the importance of integrating skin cancer prevention services for rural older farmers and across the lifespan. Public health approaches are needed to enhance the awareness of and access to preventive care in these underserved populations.

Cascade Proportional-Integral Control Design and Affordable Instrumentation System for Enhanced Performance of Electrolytic Dry Cells.

In this paper, we present a cost-effective system for monitoring and controlling alkaline electrolyzers, intending to improve hydrogen gas production on a laboratory scale. Our work includes two main innovations. Firstly, we suggest an approach to calibrate a standard air flow meter to accurately measure the flow of hydrogen-rich gas from electrolyzers, improving measurement accuracy while keeping costs low. Secondly, we introduce a unique cascade control method to manage hydrogen-rich gas production in the electrolyzer, ensuring precise control over gas flow rates. By combining affordable, energy-efficient devices with a PI control system, we achieve efficient gas production through electrolysis, replacing manual control approaches. Experimental results confirm the effectiveness of our cascade control method, demonstrating stable operation with minimal errors. These results provide a foundation for further research into control strategies to enhance the performance of electrolytic cells.

تقييم إمكانية االعتماد على نظام السالمة اآللي و صمامات اآلمان لخزانات فصل الزيت الخام في حقل نفط

A crude oil separator is a pressure vessel used to separate oil and gas in an oil well stream. The separators are provided with a Basic Process Control System (BPCS) and a protection system which consists of a Safety Instrumented System (SIS) and a Pressure Relief System (PRS). Failure of the crude oil separator might result in fire, explosion, and toxic dispersions. The world has witnessed several fire and explosion incidents due to the operation of crude oil separators. Reliability of the control and protective systems of crude oil separators is very important to verify their abilities to perform their functions. This technical article presents an overview of the layers of protection of crude oil separator and the reliability of protective systems. The article also presents an evaluation of the reliability of SIS and safety valves of crude oil separators in an oil field. The crude oil separators are arranged in the form of three parallel trains of separators each train divided into three stages. The first stage consists of two separators and each stage of the second and third stages consists of one separator. The reliability of the different configurations of the SIS and safety valves of a train of production separators has been estimated and found to be acceptable.

CHARACTERIZATION OF LEACHATES FROM UNCONTROLLED OPEN DUMPSITE IN AHIAEKE, ISIEKE AND NSUKWE UMUAHIA, ABIA STATE

This study aimed to characterize the chemical in the leachates from uncontrolled open dumpsite in Ahiaeke, Isieke and Nsukwe in Umuahia, Abia State. Air, soil and leachate samples were analysed using an absolute instrument system, AIS (Aerocet model 5315) and standard procedures to measure the concentration of SO4, NH3, O3, CO2, VOC, PM10, PM2.5, H2S and CO in the air and some selected physicochemical and heavy metal content. From the result, SO4 ranges from 0.02 - 0.19 mg/m3, NH3(1.11 - 14.05), O3(0.01 - 0.15), CO2(618.50 - 832.50), VOC (1889.50 - 6343.50), PM10(46.19 -751.50), PM2.5(14.03 - 344.72), H2S (0.02 - 5.91), CO (1.91 - 6.91 mg/m3),For leachate and soil analysis, pH ranges from 8.75 - 9.01, Potassium (2.04 - 6.93 mg/l),Iodine (1.24 - 7.86), Fluorine (0.32 - 31.96), Acidity (344.70 - 821.65), Magnesium (209.70 - 498.66), Nitrate (0.34 - 2.07), DO (1.95 - 6.82), COD (3181.29 - 19090.56), Phosphate (13.42 - 57.35), Boron (0.79 - 3.15), Ammonia (0.85 - 3.55), Lead (0.00 - 3.76 mg/kg),Mercury (0.12 - 0.88), Cadmium (0.21 - 1.49), Manganese (2.13 - 14.72) , Chromium (0.10 - 0.61), Nickel (2.14 - 8.12), Iron (1.13 - 6.28), Zinc (0.15 - 1.22),Barium (24.15- 172.02), Copper (1.18 - 9.56 mg/kg). In this study, concentration of all air parameters was higher at distance closer to the dumpsites. The level of ammonia, PM10, PM2.5 and some heavy metals exceeded WHO guidelines. Hence, the waste dumps were observed to be the major contributors of increase in chemical and heavy metal levels in the leachate.

International airport emissions and their impact on local air quality: chemical speciation of ambient aerosols at Madrid–Barajas Airport during the AVIATOR campaign

Abstract. Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) is the fourth-busiest airport in Europe. The aerosol chemical composition and the concentrations of other key pollutants were measured at the airport perimeter during October 2021 to assess the impact of airport emissions on local air quality. A high-fidelity ambient instrumentation system was deployed at Madrid–Barajas Airport to measure the following: concentrations of organic aerosols (with their composition), black carbon (eBC), carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), total hydrocarbon (THC), and total particle number. The average concentrations of eBC, NOx, SO2, PM2.5, PM10, CO, and THC at the airport for the entire campaign were 1.07 µg m−3, 22.7 µg m−3, 4.10 µg m−3, 9.35 µg m−3, 16.43 µg m−3, 0.23 mg m−3, and 2.30 mg m−3, respectively. The source apportionment analysis of the non-refractory organic aerosol (OA) using positive matrix factorisation (PMF) allowed us to discriminate between different sources of pollution, namely less oxidised oxygenated organic aerosol (LO-OOA), alkane organic aerosol (AlkOA), and more oxidised oxygenated organic aerosol (MO-OOA). The results showed that LO-OOA and MO-OOA account for more than 80 % of the total organic particle mass measured near the runway. Trace gases correlate better with the AlkOA factor than LO-OOA and MO-OOA, indicating that AlkOA is mainly related to primary combustion emissions. Bivariate polar plots were used for pollutant source identification. Significantly higher concentrations of the obtained factors were observed at low wind speeds (&lt;3 m s−1) from the southwest, where two of the runways and all terminals are located. Higher SO2/NOx and CO/eBC ratios were observed when the winds originated from the northeast, where the two northern runways are located. These elevated ratios are attributed to the aircraft activity being the major pollutant source in the northeast area.

Root canal transportation with ProTaper Next and WaveOne Gold: A systematic review

Root canal transportation is a significant concern in endodontic therapy, impacting treatment outcomes. ProTaper Next (PTN) and WaveOne Gold (WOG) are popular endodontic instrumentation systems used to shape root canals. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the literature on root canal transport with PTN and WOG. Fourteen studies were analyzed, highlighting the overall effectiveness of both systems. The PTN showed potential advantages in minimizing canal transport, while the WOG preserved the original canal shape. Operator experience and canal curvature influence performance. This review provides evidence-based insights to aid endodontic practitioners in making informed decisions for successful root canal treatments. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate and synthesize the literature on root canal transportation with ProTaper Next (PTN) and WaveOne Gold (WOG) instrumentation systems in endodontic therapy. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the PubMed Central, Scopus, EBSCO, Embase and Web of Science databases from 2000 to 2022. Studies that met the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected for analysis. Data on study design, participant characteristics, intervention details, comparison groups, outcomes, and results were extracted from the included studies. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using appropriate tools, and the findings were synthesized qualitatively. A total of 14 studies were included in the systematic review. The analysis revealed that both the PTN and WOG systems demonstrated overall effectiveness in root canal preparation. PTN rotary files performed adequately with inexperienced operators and showed potential advantages in minimizing canal transportation. On the other hand, WOG files exhibited a conservative approach, preserving the original canal shape. However, variations in performance were observed depending on the instrumentation method, operator experience, and canal curvature. This systematic review provides valuable insights into the ability of the PTN and WOG to manage root canal transport. Both systems demonstrated satisfactory outcomes, with WOG often preserving the natural canal anatomy. The findings suggest that proper operator training and technique play vital roles in achieving optimal results. Clinicians should consider the unique characteristics of each system when selecting instrumentation for root canal treatments. Nonetheless, it is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of the included studies, such as variations in sample sizes and operator experience, which may impact the interpretability of the findings. Future research should address these limitations and further explore the efficacy of these instrumentation systems in various clinical settings. The evidence derived from this systematic review can aid endodontic practitioners in making evidence-based decisions for successful root canal procedures.