Number Of Maneuvers Research Articles

Service restoration in distribution systems considering priority customers and microgrids

Service restoration (SR) consists of automatically generating and executing a plan to restore the service in healthy zones using the least number of maneuvers after detecting and isolating a permanent fault in the distribution system zone. This component is essential to self-healing functionality in smart grids and allows customers to reconnect quickly to the distribution grid after a power outage. Distributed generation (DG) supports the distribution network when there is insufficient capacity to restore all zones out of service or supply the loads locally through microgrids. The power supply must be restored to the highest priority customers in case of partial restoration. Also, most research works use simplified or linearized models to propose restoration algorithms. This paper proposes a complete AC formulation for the service restoration problem in distribution systems considering network reconfiguration (NR), the integration of distributed generation (DG), and priority customers (PCs) into the solution. The optimization problem is solved by a centralized algorithm based on combining the Differential Evolution (DE) and Continuous Population-Based Incremental Learning (PBILc) metaheuristics techniques. Simulation results are presented for three case studies in which the IEEE 33-bus distribution system is tested for different fault scenarios. The numerical results show the robustness and efficiency of the proposed algorithm.

Space-Based Passive Orbital Maneuver Detection Algorithm for High-Altitude Situational Awareness

Orbital maneuver detection for non-cooperative targets in space is a key task in space situational awareness. This study develops a passive maneuver detection algorithm using line-of-sight angles measured by a space-based optical sensor, especially for targets in high-altitude orbit. Emphasis is placed on constructing a new characterization for maneuvers as well as the corresponding detection method. First, the concept of relative angular momentum is introduced to characterize the orbital maneuver of the target quantitatively, and the sensitivity of the proposed characterization is analyzed mathematically. Second, a maneuver detection algorithm based on the new characterization is designed in which sliding windows and correlations are utilized to determine the mutation of the maneuver characterization. Subsequently, a numerical simulation system composed of error models, reference missions and trajectories, and computation models for estimating errors is established. Then, the proposed algorithm is verified through numerical simulations for both long-range and close-range targets. The results indicate that the proposed algorithm is effective. Additionally, the sensitivity of the proposed algorithm to the width of the sliding window, accuracy of the optical sensor, magnitude and number of maneuvers, and different relative orbit types is analyzed, and the sensitivity of the new characterization is verified using simulations.

Comparison between Classical- and Rotational-Mechanical-Chair-Assisted Maneuvers in a Population of Patients with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo.

Introduction: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) stands as the most common cause of peripheral vertigo. Its treatment with repositioning maneuvers on an examination table is highly effective. However, patients with back or neck problems, paraplegia, or other conditions face challenges with these maneuvers, potentially experiencing longer healing times and creating additional difficulties for physicians diagnosing and treating BPPV in everyday practice. The emergence of mechanical rotational chairs (MRCs) offers a more convenient alternative for performing these maneuvers. Objectives: The primary objective was to compare the effectiveness of maneuvers on the examination table with those on MRCs in BPPV patients diagnosed in the emergency room and randomly classified into one of the treatment options. The secondary objectives included a comparison of patient quality of life during BPPV episodes and after their resolution and an analysis of recurrences and associated risk factors. Methods: This was a cohort study on sixty-three patients diagnosed with BPPV in the emergency department. Patients were classified into two cohorts depending on diagnostic and treatment maneuvers (MRC or conventional repositioning maneuvers (CRMs)) and received weekly follow-ups until positioning maneuvers became negative. Subsequent follow-ups were conducted at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after the resolution of vertigo. Patients were classified into two groups based on their assigned treatment method. Results: Thirty-one patients were treated with CRMs and 32 with TRV. Mean age was 62.29 ± 17.67 years and the most affected canal was the PSC (96.8%). The mean number of required maneuvers was two, while 55.56% only required one maneuver until resolution. Recurrence was present in 26.98% of the patients during the 6-month follow-up. Comparing both cohorts, there were no statistically significant differences between treatments (TRV vs. CRM) regarding the number of maneuvers, number of recurrences, and days until remission of BPPV. Dizziness Handicap Inventory and Visual Analogue Scale values decreased considerably after BPPV resolution, with no statistically significant differences between the groups. Age was identified as a covariable in the number of maneuvers and days until BPPV resolution, showing that an increase in age implies a greater need of maneuvers. Conclusions: There was no difference between the means of treatment for BPPV in our population ot There was no difference between the groups of treatments for BPPV in our population. The quality of life of patients improved six months after the resolution of BPPV, regardless of the treatment applied.

Assessing the acceptability and feasibility of remote spirometric monitoring for rural patients with interstitial lung disease: a multimethod approach

IntroductionInterstitial lung disease encompasses a group of rare lung conditions causing inflammation and scarring of lung tissue. The typical method of monitoring disease activity is through pulmonary function tests performed in a hospital setting. However, accessing care can be difficult for rural patients due to numerous barriers. This study assesses the feasibility and acceptability of home spirometry telemonitoring using MIR-Spirometers and the patientMpower home-monitoring platform for rural patients with interstitial lung disease.MethodsUnblinded, uncontrolled, prospective, multiple-methods study of the feasibility and utility of remote monitoring of 20 rural subjects with interstitial lung disease. Study assessments include adherence to twice weekly spirometry for 3 months in addition to mMRC dyspnea and EQ-5D-5L health-related quality of life questionnaires with each spirometry maneuver. Upon completion, subjects were encouraged to complete an 11-question satisfaction survey and participate in semi-structured qualitative interviews to further explore expectations and perceptions of rural patients to telehealth and remote patient monitoring.Results19 subjects completed the 3-month study period. Adherence to twice weekly spirometry was mean 53% ± 38%, with participants on average performing 2.26 ± 1.69 maneuvers per week. The median (Range) number of maneuvers per week was 2.0 (0.0, 7.0). The majority of participants responded favorably to the patient satisfaction survey questions. Themes regarding barriers to access included: lack of local specialty care, distance to center with expertise, and time, distance, and high cost associated with travel. Remote monitoring was well perceived amongst subjects as a way to improve access and overcome barriers.ConclusionsRemote spirometry monitoring through web-based telehealth is acceptable and feasible for rural patients. Perceived benefits include overcoming access barriers like time, distance, and travel costs. However, cost, reimbursement, and internet access must be addressed before implementing it widely. Future studies are needed to ensure long-term feasibility and to compare outcomes with usual care.

Effect of Abdominal Corset on Completion of Colonoscopy and Cecal and Ileocecal Intubation Time in Patients with Central Obesity: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial.

This work investigated the effect of an abdominal corset on the colonoscopy completion rate, as well as cecum and ileum intubation time, total colonoscopy time, and pain score in centrally obese patients. Patients were randomized into two groups, with 50 patients in each group. A colonoscopy was performed using the abdominal corset in Group 1 and the standard method in Group 2. The comparison between the groups evaluated demographic data, procedure details, circulatory dynamics, anesthesia data, and visual analogue scale (VAS). Of the patients included in the study, 60 were female, and 40 were male, with a mean age of 57.3 ± 13.6 years. Cecal intubation time (Z: -2.66 p: 0.008), total colonoscopy time (Z: -2.180 p: 0.029), number of maneuvers (χ2: 8.391 p: 0.039), and VAS (Z: -3.087 p: 0.002) were significantly lower in the abdominal corset group. An abdominal corset that applies external abdominal compression reduces the cecal intubation time, the total colonoscopy time, the number of maneuvers, and the pain level. NCT03128645 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03128645?tab=results).

Risk Factors and a Nomogram Model for Residual Symptoms of Cured Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo.

We aimed to analyze the independent risk factors that affect the treatment outcomes of residual symptoms of cured benign paroxysmal positional vertigoand to construct a nomogram model. A total of 186 benign paroxysmal positional vertigo patients who were treated in our hospital from June 2019 to August 2021 were selected. According to whether there were residual symptoms, they were divided into a group with residual symptoms (n=82) and a group without residual symptoms (n = 104). The logistic regression model was used to analyze the independent risk factors affecting the treatment outcomes, and the results were incorporated into R software to establish a nomogram model for verification. The incidence rate of residual symptoms in the 186 patients was 44.09% (82/186). Logistic regression analysis showed that age, course of disease, number of maneuvers, anxiety state, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension were independent risk factors affecting the treatment outcomes of residual symptoms after cured benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the nomogram model was 0.938. The calibration curve was fitted well (χ2 = 8.165, P = .417). The nomogram model constructed based on age, course of disease, number of maneuvers, anxiety state, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension had a high predictive value for the treatment outcomes of residual symptoms in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo patients.

Analysis of sailing variables and performance of laser sailors with different rankings under the condition of certain wind speed

ObjectiveThe aims of this study were to describe the characteristics of sailing variables and differences between different ranking sailors under the condition of certain wind speed, and predict the variables that affect performance. MethodsFive regatta's data of the 2019–2020 Hempel World Cup Series and Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games for a total of 63 races were analyzed in this study. The wind speed was defined as light wind below 8 knots, medium wind at 8–12 knots and strong wind above 12 knots. Sailors were divided into top 10 and other ranked groups based on their performance for each race. Results1) The race time of Laser class was about 50 min. The sailing distance traveled, VMG, percentage of upwind time, and the number of downwind maneuvers increased with an increase in the wind speed, while upwind maneuvers decreased increasing wind speed. Under the same wind speed, the VMG of reaching legs was the highest, followed by downwind and upwind legs in same wind speed. (2) The top 10 sailors had a high VMG, less race time, upwind/reaching legs' time and distance compared to other ranked sailors in all categories of wind speed (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the number of maneuvers among sailors of different rankings (p > 0.05). (3) There was a moderate to high correlation between first upwind mark position of sailors and the race ranking (r ranging 0.762–0.851, p < 0.01), and the top 10 sailors’ first upwind ranking was close to the race performance. ConclusionsWind speeds affect sailing variables and race characteristics. VMG and time and distance in upwind and reaching legs are important variables for differentiating sailors’ level. Regardless of the wind speed, the first upwind mark position of sailors can be used as an effective factor in predicting the performance of the race.

Risk Factors of Residual Dizziness After Successful Treatment for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo in Middle-Aged and Older Adults.

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to analyze risk factors of residual dizziness (RD) after successful treatment for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) in middle-aged and older adults.Methods181 patients with BPPV, after successful canalith repositioning maneuver (CRM) treatment, were recruited. All patients were divided into the middle-aged group (aged 45–59 years, n = 101) and the older group (over 60 years, n = 80). The clinical characteristics were recorded, including age, gender, numbers of maneuvers, involved canal, affected side, RD, comorbidities, dizziness handicap inventory score, and generalized anxiety disorder's 7-item scale score.ResultsThe incidence of RD in the older group was significantly higher than that of the middle-aged group (p = 0.033). Multivariate logistic regression analysis shows that age (odds ratio = 1.042, p = 0.006), moderate to severe dizziness (odds ratio = 2.017, p = 0.034), and moderate to severe anxiety (odds ratio = 2.228, p = 0.017) were independently associated with RD in middle-aged and older adults.ConclusionOlder adults exhibited higher incidence of RD after successful treatment for BPPV. Age, moderate to severe dizziness, and moderate to severe anxiety were independent risk factors of RD in middle-aged and older adults.

Generalized Method for Determining the Width of a Safe Maneuvering Area for Bulk Carriers at Waterway Bends

There are a number of empirical methods for determining the width of safe maneuvering areas for ships on waterways. These methods are relatively accurate for straight sections of waterways and less accurate for curves of the waterways. When designing waterways in detail or determining the conditions for their safe operation, more accurate methods (e.g., simulations) are used. However, such studies require relatively large expenditure involving the construction of simulation models of various vessels and water areas, and conducting a real-time simulation experiment with a sufficiently large number of maneuvers performed by highly qualified navigators (pilots, captains). This study deals with the problem of determining the width of safe maneuvering areas of ships on the bends of the waterway based on the results of simulation studies. A new empirical method was developed to determine the width of safe maneuvering areas of loaded bulk carriers passing through fairway bends under deteriorated hydro-meteorological conditions. The method was developed on the basis of a generalization of the results of many simulation experiments carried out at various stages of the Świnoujście–Szczecin fairway reconstruction and a determination of the safe operating conditions for ships passing through the fairway.

Comparing the Efficiency of Tumescent Infiltration Techniques in Burn Surgery.

Tangential excision and grafting of burn wounds result in significant intraoperative blood loss, and infiltration of a dilute epinephrine solution (tumescence) is routinely performed to reduce such bleeding. Tumescent infiltration has been described using both a manual technique (syringe) and a pump device. The purpose of this study is to compare the efficiency of these two methods in terms of time and economy of motion. Consecutive adult burn patients at a single center requiring excision and grafting were enrolled in the study and randomized into either the manual or pump technique. Excisions involving less than 2% TBSA were excluded, along with specific anatomic regions (eg, head and neck). Infiltration with epinephrine solution (1:500,000) was performed to the endpoint of tumescence by a single surgeon and filmed/coded for duration, number of maneuvers, and volume of tumescence injected. Fourteen patients were enrolled, and 16 cases were randomized to either manual (N = 8) or pump infiltration (N = 8). The pump method required less time (2.0 vs 1.1 cm2/s, P < .001) and fewer maneuvers (37.8 vs 1.1 cm2/move, P < .001) to reach the desired endpoint of tumescence. Use of the infiltration pump also resulted in a reduced volume of tumescent fluid required to reach this point of tumescence (1.7 vs 2.4 mL/cm2, P = .01). Compared to the manual technique, an infiltration pump was significantly more efficient in terms of both time and economy of motion. These reductions are potentially useful for improving operating room efficiency as well as minimizing operator fatigue.

87 Comparing the Efficiency of Tumescent Infiltration Techniques in Burn Surgery

IntroductionTangential excision and grafting of burn wounds results in significant intra-operative blood loss. Infiltration of a dilute epinephrine solution is routinely performed to reduce bleeding from both the eschar and donor sites. Tumescence infiltration has been described using both a manual technique or a pump device. The purpose of this study is to compare the efficiency of these two methods in terms of time and economy of motion.MethodsConsecutive adult burn patients who required excision and grafting were enrolled in the study. Manual infiltration consisted of an aspirating syringe (10 mL), spinal needle (18 gauge), and three-way stopcock connected to sterile tubing. Pump infiltration consisted of a blunt cannula and infiltration pump (300 mL/minute). Prior to each case, patients were randomized into either the manual or pump tumescent technique. Excisions of < 2% TBSA were excluded, along with specific anatomic regions (head and neck, genitalia, hands and forearms, feet, and legs below the knee). Infiltration with epinephrine-saline solution (1:500,000) was performed to the endpoint of tissue tumescence by a single surgeon for consistency. ImageJ software was used to calculate the surface area to be infiltrated. The infiltration was filmed and later coded for duration, number of maneuvers, and total volume of tumescence injected. Any complications related to the infiltration of tumescence were collected.ResultsA total of 14 patients were enrolled, and 16 cases were randomized to either manual (N=8) or pump infiltration (N=8). Participants were 71% male, with a mean age of 41.8 years, and mean burn size of 16.9% TBSA. The pump method required less time (2.0 cm2/s vs 1.1 cm2/s, p< 0.001) and fewer maneuvers (37.8 cm2/move vs 1.1 cm2/move, p< 0.001). Use of the infiltration pump also resulted in a reduced volume of fluid required to reach the endpoint of tumescence (1.7 mL/cm2 vs 2.4 mL/cm2, p=0.01). No complications were reported related to the process of tumescence in either group.ConclusionsCompared to the manual technique, use an infiltration pump was significantly more efficacious in terms of both time and economy of motion. Additionally, less fluid volume was required to achieve the endpoint of tumescence.

Дистоция плечиков — «ночной кошмар» акушера гинеколога?

Shoulder dystocia is an unpredictable, unavoidable obstetric condition characterized by a lack of a generally accepted definition, consensus on treatment, and a wide variety of reported incidences worldwide. The purpose of this review is to raise the awareness of obstetricians, gynecologists and residents in the basic principles of labor management for shoulder dystocia and the algorithm of actions proposed by various authors to resolve this emergency obstetric situation. Materials and methods. An analytical review of the special literature on shoulder dystocia from various sources was carried out: conference proceedings, technical reports, journal articles, abstracts and online articles using the Medline, Google Scholar and PubMed databases. Results. Shoulder dystocia is associated with a 1% risk of severe long-term disability or neonatal death. The relative rarity of shoulder dystocia and the lack of standardized management often means that few obstetricians actually have experience with this emergency obstetric problem. To resolve shoulder dystocia, a number of maneuvers are traditionally used, the proposed sequence of which is debatable by various authors. Conclusion. Shoulder dystocia is a highly unpredictable obstetric emergency that requires all practitioners in the delivery room to have a detailed knowledge of the condition and how to manage it.

MODELING TRANSPORT INTERSECTIONS OF CITY STREETS WITH ADAPTIVE TRAFFIC CONTROL

The introduction of automated traffic control systems on the road network will improve the efficiency of its work. This will lead to an increase in throughput and improve the uniformity of traffic parameters. The number of stops, braking, wear of the undercarriage of cars, consumption of engine oil, fuel will decrease, and the environmental burden on the environment will be reduced. Modeling transport intersections is one of the fundamental methods for studying the functioning of the road network. This method is used in all types of work related to the improvement, modi­fication, reconstruction, and expansion of the road network. Modern techniques for modeling traffic intersections allow recreating the movement of all road users through them, and predicting the results for many years to come, considering changes in both external factors (number of users for crossing) and internal (crossing configuration). To evaluate the efficiency of the intersection, the initial data are taken from field observations. These include a random value of the traffic flow; pedestrian flows; traffic light cycle length; proximity to other intersections; the length of the transport queue when a permissive traffic light signal is given. The analysis of the obtained data makes it possible to assess the current situation on the road network and does not allow to make a forecast for the future when the parameters of the transport intersection change. This is where intersection modeling comes in handy. The intersection model allows predicting the operation of a traffic intersection, considering changes in both the entire road network and particular changes in the traffic intersection itself. The article proposes a transport intersection model based on experimental data obtained during a full-scale experiment, as well as taking into account the uneven throughput. In relation to a traffic intersection, the capacity unevenness index affects the overall capacity of the intersection, traffic safety through the intersection, the magnitude of traffic delays, the magnitude of traffic losses, and the number of maneuvers in the stream. In addition, the introduction of the non-uniformity parameter will make it possible to predict the magnitude of transport delays and queues more accurately. The proposed model can be used to create a set of measures to improve the road network of large and major cities, a decision to rebuild a transport intersection, or build an interchange in its place.

Multi-maneuver vertical parking path planning and control in a narrow space

The automatic parking system can replace people to complete the parking task and reduce the burden of driving. The size of the parking space affects the number of parking operations and the time for parking planning to be completed. Parking planning in narrow space is a challenging problem, especially in crowded urban environments. This paper presents a parking path planning method in a narrow vertical parking space. First, the parking path planning method can be used in narrow corridor spaces and narrow spots. According to the size of the corridor space and the parking space obtained by the environment perception, this method can determine the number of parking maneuvers and the start parking position. Second, to allow the vehicle to generate a parking path at any position to reach the parking starting point, the system generates a target line set that considers control error factors. It will also select the optimal target line based on the current position. Third, the vehicle cannot complete the parking while traveling along the original parking path when the factual error is greater than the reserved error. Therefore, a re-planning method based on geometric planning is proposed to improve the robustness of the system. Finally, through the establishment of longitudinal and lateral driver models, the effectiveness of the path planning method is verified, and compared with other path planning methods, it proves that the method proposed in this paper performs well in the number of maneuvers and planning time in a small space.

Accuracy and Efficacy of Software-guided Bony Realignment in Periarticular Deformities of the Lower Limb.

Aim and objectiveSoftware-guided realignment is proposed as an easy and accurate method of achieving simultaneous multiaxial correction. The accuracy and efficacy in periarticular problems have not been investigated fully. This study investigates the results and possible clinical benefits.Materials and methodsA retrospective review was performed in 24 patients with 27 periarticular deformities of the lower limb treated by the Ilizarov technique. Bony realignment was achieved by a software-guided hexapod realignment device. The deformity category, deformity severity score (DSS) and individual deformity component scores were measured for objective quantification of each deformity. The periarticular level, number of manoeuvres, correction period and any difficulties in the execution of the correction manoeuvre were noted. Pre-procedure and post-procedure values of deformity parameters were analysed to estimate the accuracy and efficacy of the realignment device.ResultsThe correction manoeuvre was accomplished successfully in all patients except two. The mean correction period was 14.9 days (range, 5–38 days). The mean pre-procedure DSS was 18.7 (range 6.3–27.3), which reduced to a mean post-procedure value of 1.5 (range, 0–7.9) with a 92.0% deformity correction (p-value < 0.001)). There was a significant reversal of individual deformity components. DSS values were achieved to an excellent level (< 3.5) in 25 deformities and to good and poor levels in one deformity, respectively.ConclusionSoftware-guided realignments are effective for accurate realignment of periarticular deformities using Ilizarov fixators. These devices offer simultaneous multidimensional corrections even in complex multiplanar deformities and simplify the task of deformity correction.Clinical significanceThe present study assesses the accuracy and efficacy of software-guided realignments using novel concepts of deformity category, DSS and individual deformity component scores, which may overcome some of the shortcomings of conventional assessment methods.How to cite this articleSingh P, Sabat D, Dutt S, et al. Accuracy and Efficacy of Software-guided Bony Realignment in Periarticular Deformities of the Lower Limb. Strategies Trauma Limb Reconstr 2021;16(2):65–70.

Development of an Industrial IoT Based Monitoring System for Voltage Regulators

The increase in electronic loads connected to electrical network became relevant requirements of the quality of supply. Among the equipment used in the power distribution system stands out regulators medium voltage installed over the grid to maintain voltage levels within indifferent operating range of the oscillations. Therefore, the quality of supply has become a priority and the implementation of technologies that allow transforming conventional electrical distribution networks into intelligent ones is strategic for Distribution Operation Centers (COD) to perform remote interaction with the equipment, in this case, with a power regulator. medium voltage. In this context, this article demonstrates an IoT (Internet of Things) solution for monitoring and controlling medium voltage regulators, through the use of LPWA (Low Power Wide Area) networks, integrating this equipment with the concepts of Smart Grid (SG). The complete development of the project is presented, including the study of the communication protocol DNP3 (Distributed Network Protocol 3), responsible for the exchange of information, between the hardware system and the voltage regulator, the communication system being through the Sigfox and GPRS (General Packet Radio Service), transmitting the regulator data to supervision software. Validation of communication hardware and software with the medium voltage regulator, occurred with bench tests in expressive periods and, after installation in the field, the experiment was validated by reading and recording parameters, such as number of maneuvers, voltage and mains current, obtained directly from the voltage regulator.

Nursing care and prevalence of adverse events in prone position: Characteristics of mechanically ventilated patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 pulmonary infection.

BackgroundBecause of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, the use of prone positioning has dramatically increased in the intensive care unit (ICU). Because this manoeuvre is related to several complications, it must be performed in a protocolized manner by the appropriate personnel.AimTo determine the prevalence of adverse events (AEs) in patients admitted to the ICU with a diagnosis of COVID‐19‐related acute respiratory distress syndrome (C‐ARDS) undergoing mechanical ventilation in prone position (PP).DesignDescriptive ambispective study of patients admitted to the ICU diagnosed with C‐ARDS undergoing mechanical ventilation who were in the PP at least once.The number of PP manoeuvres and the time spent in the PP were recorded for each subject. AEs proportions and frequencies were calculated, and analysis of variance was used to assess mean differences in the number of manoeuvres and total hours in PP stratified by the number of facial pressure ulcers. IBM SPSS Statistics v.25.0. and EPIDAT 4.1 software were used.ResultsForty‐four patients were analysed, and 130 PP manoeuvres were performed. The most frequently observed AEs were facial oedema in 26 patients (80.3%) and facial pressure ulcers in 20 (60.6%). There was a significant positive association between the time spent in PP and the development of facial pressure ulcers (P < .001). Enteral nutrition was well tolerated, and no serious AEs or sentinel events were noted.ConclusionDespite the stressful, demanding situation during the peak of the pandemic, the large number of PP manoeuvres, and long duration spent in this position, no serious AEs occurred. This study highlights the need to implement preventive measures to avoid the development of pressure ulcers secondary to prone positioning.Relevance to practiceProne positioning requires a nursing protocol to prevent the occurrence of AEs that may reduce the quality of nursing care.

Software Optimisation for Mechanised Sugarcane Planting Scenarios to Aid in Decision-Making

With advancements in the mechanisation of sugarcane farming, studies have been fundamental to improving the process—from soil preparation to harvest. Faced with increasing challenges of economic scenarios, alternatives should be sought aimed at optimising resources, reducing costs, improving operational efficiency, logistics, among others. Planting is one of the main agricultural operations, any deviation in this phase harms the crop during the crop cycle, so planning in advance the area to be planted is essential for better results. Analysis of better planting scenarios prior to harvest combined with the use of autopilot requires knowledge of the systematisation areas and skilled labour to guarantee the quality of the process and reduce losses and damages. The objective of this study is to both evaluate and optimise sugarcane planting scenarios based on travel and manoeuvre time, travel distance, number of manoeuvres, and fuel consumption. The study was conducted in the municipality of Tanabi, SP, during the 2013 planting season. The results showed fewer manoeuvres and longer planting lines in the optimised area, increased the availability of the machine and generated possible cost reduction.

The effect of the number of needle maneuver in the lung and the number of pleural punctures on the formation of pneumothorax, a complication of lung transthoracic core needle biopsy

Aim This study sought to investigate the effect of the needle maneuver count and number of pleural punctures on pneumothorax in CT-guided transthoracic core needle biopsy. Materials and Methods Records of CT-guided core needle biopsy performed on patients were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data, procedure reports, pathology reports, tomography images, follow-up examinations, and complications due to biopsy were examined. Next, the number of times the needle penetrated the pleura and the number of maneuvers in the lung were listed. The number of pleural punctures was recorded either as 1 or ≥2. The needle maneuver count was recorded either as 1, 2, or ≥3. All listed variables were statistically evaluated. Results A total of 393 patients were included in the study. Complications of pneumothorax occurred in 87 (22.1%) patients. A thorax tube application due to pneumothorax was required in 39 (9.9%) patients. When the needle maneuver count in the lungs during biopsy was greater than 3, the incidence of pneumothorax and the need for a thorax tube application were increased (p = 0.001). As the size of the lesion decreased and the lesion-pleura distance increased, the needle maneuver count in the lung increased (p = 0.001, p = 0.008). Pneumothorax and thorax tube application rates were increased in 48 patients with pleural punctures ≥2 (p = 0.001, p = 0.001). Conclusion In CT-guided pulmonary transthoracic core needle biopsy applications, needle maneuver count and the number of pleural punctures constitute the major factors contributing to the risk of developing pneumothorax.

Abstract WP43: Anti-Coagulation Therapy Prior to Mechanical Thrombectomy is Associated With Reduced Procedure Time and Low Proportion of Fibrin in Retrieved Thrombus

Introduction: Very few studies have investigated the relationship between the histopathology of the retrieved thrombus by mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion and anti-coagulation agents before mechanical thrombectomy. A study in vitro showed that clots of patients with anti-coagulation agents were dissolved easily compared to those of patients with aspirin. Hypothesis: Anti-coagulation therapy prior to mechanical thrombectomy is associated with reduced procedure time and low proportion of fibrin in retrieved thrombus. Methods: All retrieved thrombus was stained with hematoxylin-eosin. Embolic debris underwent quantitative analysis to quantify three main components: red blood cells, white blood cells and fibrin, by color based segmentation. Patients were assingned to receive either mechanical thrombectomy with anti-coagulation agents (AC-MT group) or mechanical thrombectomy alone (MT group). Considering influence by stroke etiology, patients with non-cardioembolism were excluded. Results: From August 2015 to Dec 2018, 226 consecutive patients were treated in our hospital by MT for acute large vessel occlusion. Histopathologic analysis of retrieved thrombus from 119 patients with acute stroke. 92 patients with cardioembolism were included. Patients were assigned to AC-MT group (n=35) or MT group (n=57). Clinical backgrounds were not significantly different. PT-INR was higher in AC-MT group. (1.32 vs 1.06; p&lt;0.01) The proportion of patients with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator was not significantly different (26% vs 43%; p=0.12). AC-MT group had shorter puncture to recanalization time (median 38 vs 54 minutes; p&lt;0.01) and tendency to reduce number of maneuvers [median 2 (range 1-4) vs 2 (range 1-6); p=0.06]. AC-MT group had lower proportion of fibrin in retrieved thrombus (44.3% vs 77.3%, p&lt;0.01). Conclusion: Anti-coagulation therapy prior to mechanical thrombectomy is associated with reduced procedure time and low proportion of fibrin in retrieved thrombus.