Performance Characteristics Research Articles

A Microfluidic, Multi-Antibody Cell Capture Method to Evaluate Tumor Cells in Cerebrospinal Fluid in Patients With Suspected Leptomeningeal Metastases.

Leptomeningeal disease (LMD) is a clinical sequela of central nervous system metastasis involving the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), often seen in late-stage solid tumors. It has a grave prognosis without urgent treatment. Standard of care methodologies to diagnose LMD include CSF cytology, magnetic resonance imaging, and clinical evaluation. These methods offer limited sensitivity and specificity for the evaluation of LMD. Here, we describe the analytic performance characteristics of a microfluidic-based tumor cell enrichment and detection assay optimized to detect epithelial cells in CSF using both contrived samples as well as CSF from patients having suspected or confirmed LMD from carcinomas. To demonstrate the feasibility of using a microfluidic, multi-antibody cell capture assay to identify and quantify tumor cells in CSF. An artificial CSF solution was spiked with 34 different human carcinoma cell lines at different concentrations and assayed for the ability to detect tumor cells to assess analytic accuracy. Two cell lines were selected to assess linearity, intra-assay precision, interinstrument precision, and sample stability. Clinical verification was performed on 65 CSF specimens from patients. Parameters assessed included the number of tumor cells, coefficient of variation percentage, and percentage of tumor cell capture (TCC). Among contrived samples, average tumor cell capture ranged from 50% to 82% (261 of 522; 436 of 531), and coefficients of variation ranged from 7% to 67%. The cell capture assay demonstrated a sensitivity of 92% and a specificity of 95% among clinical samples. This assay demonstrated the ability to detect and enumerate epithelial cells in contrived and clinical specimens in an accurate and reproducible fashion. The use of cell capture assays in CSF may be useful as a sensitive test for the diagnosis and longitudinal monitoring of LMD from solid tumors.

Experimental study on performance and compressor characteristics of transcritical CO2 heat pump system

The accelerated advancement of the economy has led to a heightened focus on the issue of energy conservation and reduced consumption within heat pump systems. An experimental investigation was conducted to analyze the impact of discharge pressure and outlet water temperature on the performance of the transcritical CO2 single-stage heat pump system and vapor injection heat pump system. The experimental results show that the heating capacity first increases and then tends to be constant or even slightly decreases with the increase of discharge pressure in single-stage heat pump system. When subjected to the same operating conditions, the coefficient of performance of vapor injection heat pump system exceeds that of single-stage heat pump system. Compared with single-stage heat pump system, the performance coefficient of vapor injection heat pump system has increased by an average of 6.21% and the heating capacity has increased by an average of 9.54%. Additionally, the volumetric efficiency of the compressor substantially decreases when producing high-temperature hot water. Semi-empirical models for evaluating the compressor performance in both single-stage heat pump system and vapor injection pump system are established through the parameterization of the volumetric efficiency with respect to the pressure ratio and compressor speed. These models effectively forecast compressor performance.

Combustion and emission characteristics of distilled waste plastic pyrolysis oil-gasoline blends using single cylinder motorcycle petrol engine

ABSTRACT This study assessed the performance and emissions characteristics of a single cylinder, 2-stroke motorcycle spark ignition engine (Esoo 150 cc) utilising clay-catalytically produced distilled waste plastic pyrolysis oil (DWPPO) fuel. The clay catalyst and fuel properties were analysed using established standard testing procedures. The engine performance and exhaust gas emissions were determined for various fuel blends and compared with those of commercial gasoline at various parameters. Results showed that distilled pyrolysis fuel properties (kinematic-viscosity: 6.4 × 10–7 m2/s; caloric-value: 47.82 MJ/kg) were enhanced compared to kinematic viscosity of 1.92 × 10–6 m2/s and caloric value of 44.41 MJ/kg for Crude Waste Plastic Pyrolysis Oil. Notably, chemical composition of distilled fuel collected within a temperature range of 90°C-180°C closely resembled those of pure gasoline. It was also shown that 50% Distilled Waste Plastic Pyrolysis Oil (D50WPPO) significantly improved the brake power, brake thermal efficiency and reduction in brake specific fuel consumption while operating at full load conditions with various DWPPO-Gasoline blends and pure gasoline. Unburned hydrocarbon emissions reduced by 40% when the engine was fuelled with D50WPPO. The study concluded that DWPPO can potentially be employed as a substitute of conventional gasoline without any engine modifications.

Physical Capacities and Combat Performance Characteristics of Male and Female Olympic Boxers

ABSTRACT Purpose: The study characterized the anthropometrical and cardiorespiratory profile, and the cardiorespiratory, bio-chemical and immunological responses to 3 × 3 min round (R) free-contact/combat boxing simulation, in elite Olympic Boxers (4 female and 10 male). Methods: The evaluation consisted of resting metabolic rate, anthropometric measurement, maximal graded test exercise (visit 1), free combat simulation (3 × 3 min R, 1 minute rest), and blood samples collected before, during and after the combat (visit 2). Results: Respectively, females and males had (mean±SD; or median: for non-parametric data) body fat percentage (17.2[3.5] and 4.6[0.8]%), predominantly mesomorphic somatotyping, and V ˙ O 2 MAX (50.0 ± 2.5 and 56.2 ± 5.2 ml.kg−1.min−1). The free combat simulation resulted in high cardiovascular strain [mean heart rate corresponding to R1: 92 ± 3; R2: 94 ± 2; and R3: 95 ± 2% of maximal HR] and blood chemistry indicative of acidosis (following R3: 7.21 ± 0.08 pH, bicarbonate 13.1 ± 3.6 mmol.L−1, carbon dioxide 13.9 ± 3.8 mmol.L−1, lactate 15.1 ± 3.8 mmol.L−1, and glucose 8.4 ± 1.3 mmol.L−1). Further, notable general catabolism, hematological and immune responses were evident post combat simulation (1-hour post R3: creatinine 95.2 ± 14.5 µmol.L−1, urea 6.4 ± 1.3 mmol.L−1, white blood cell accumulation 7.8 ± 2.6 × 109.L−1, hemoglobin 14.9 ± 0.8 g.dL−1 and hematocrit 43.7 ± 1.9%). Conclusions: Notable cardiovascular strain and acidosis are seen from the 3 × 3 free combat simulation whilst pronounced catabolism and immune responses are evident 1-hour post R3. This characterization is the first in male and female (who recently adopted the 3 × 3 min R format, as used by males) elite Olympic boxers and provides a characterization framework to assist practitioners and athletes in their attempts to deliver evidence-informed practice for specific conditioning session design.

Strategic Deployment of Ducklink Wireless Devices for Disaster Mitigation and Management in Nueva ECIJA University of Science and Technology Sumacab Campus

A significant challenge during disasters is the breakdown of traditional communication systems, impeding rescue operations and information dissemination. To tackle this issue, researchers conducted a study on strategically deploying DuckLink wireless devices within a small community, particularly at NEUST Sumacab Campus. Utilizing tools like Google Maps, Google Earth, and WiFi Heat Map, optimal locations for device placement were identified. Analyzing signal range and performance characteristics, the study endeavored to enhance disaster management capabilities on campus. Findings revealed DuckLink devices operate with omnidirectional polarity, ensuring reliable communication, with a clear correlation between distance and message transmission time emphasizing strategic device placement for efficient campus-wide connectivity. Recommending the installation of 112 devices across 79 buildings, with key locations designated for Papaduck receivers and Mamaduck transmitters, this research offers crucial insights into disaster management strategies, optimizing wireless communication infrastructure in educational environments, thus contributing to safer and more resilient communities.

Anti-fouling underwater superoleophobic membranes based on hierarchical double networks for high efficiency oil–water separation

Oil fouling is a key problem of superwettable oil–water separation membranes because the membranes are inevitably susceptible to varying degrees of oil contamination during the ongoing separation processes, which usually results in a severe impact on separation performance. Consequently, it is a great challenge to construct oil-removal membranes with superior resistance to oil contamination. Herein, we fabricated hierarchical double networks (HDT)-modified porous glass membrane with superhydrophilicity/underwater superoleophobicity. Firstly, a layer of silicone nanofilament (SNF) network bearing tremendous C = C double bonds were fabricated on a porous glass membrane surface by one-step chemical vapor deposition (CVD) using vinyltrichlorosilane (VTCS) as a precursor. Subsequently, the second network layer was constructed by copolymerization of the C = C double bonds on the SNF network and those in sulfobetaine-derived monomer (sulfobetaine methacrylate, SBMA), using N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) as the cross-linkering agent. It was observed that the obtained HDT-modified glass membranes displayed excellent superhydrophilicity/underwater superoleophobicity accompanied with superior self-cleaning performance and oil-resistance properties. As a result, the HDT-modified membranes showed high separation flux and high efficiency for both oil/water mixtures (7500 L m−2h−1, above 99.98%) and surfactant-stabilized oil-in-water emulsions (1100 L m−2h−1, above 99.96%) with excellent cyclability. The outstanding advantages with characteristics of excellent oil resistance and superior separation performance enable the HDT-modified glass membrane promising applications in a wide range of industries related to oil–water separations.

Investigation of engine performance, exhaust emissions, and combustion characteristics of a diesel engine fueled with Adansonia digitata methyl ester doped with nanosilica additive extracted from agricultural waste

AbstractRecent studies have used nanoparticle additions to enhance the fuel properties of biodiesel. However, it is unclear how these additives would affect engine operation. The effects of commercial nanoadditives on engines have been the subject of several studies. The current study focuses on nanoparticles derived from agricultural waste – specifically rice husk (RH) – to enhance their value. This study therefore examined silica (SiO2) doped with Adansonia digitata methyl ester (ADME) and tested it in a diesel engine. All nanofuel blends were prepared using an ultrasonication process, incorporating 400 ppm of SiO2 nanoparticles, fuels, and 1% surfactants. The results revealed that the brake thermal efficiencies (BTE) at maximum brake power (BP), for B20, B20 + SiO2, B100, and B100 + SiO2 fuels, were 29.9%, 28.2%, 28.44%, and 27.1%, respectively. Brake‐specific fuel consumption (BSFC) was also reduced when the engine ran from 4 to 16 kW BP. The exhaust gas temperature (EGT) of B100 and B100 + SiO2 increased more than that of B20. The peak heat release rates (HRR) of the B100 + SiO2 and B20 + SiO2 were slightly higher by 2.9% and 2.6%, respectively than the neat B100 at medium BP. However, in‐cylinder gas pressure (CGP) increased in the following order: B20 + SiO2 < B20 < B100 < B100 + SiO2 < B0. Moreover, the exhaust emissions of nanofuel blends showed a greater reduction in CO, total hydrocarbon (THC), CO2, NOX, and particulate matter (PM) in comparison with B20 and B100. Overall, this study recommends that SiO2 nanoadditive is a beneficial substitute fuel additive to use with biodiesel and its blends due to enhanced engine performance efficiency and reduced emissions.

Responsiveness and validity of the Normal Hand Score in patients undergoing carpal tunnel decompression.

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Selective dual sensing strategy for free and vitamin D3 micelles in food samples based on S,N-GQDs photoinduced electron transfer.

A reliable nanotechnological sensing strategy, based on anS,N-co-doped graphene quantum dot (GQD) platform, has been developed to distinctly detect two key variants of vitamin D3, specifically the free (VD3) and the nanoencapsulated form (VD3Ms). For this purpose, food-grade vitamin D3 micelles were self-assembled using a low-energy procedure (droplet size: 49.6 nm, polydispersity index: 0.34, ζ-potential: -33 mV, encapsulation efficiency: 90 %) with an innovative surfactant mixture (Tween 60 and quillaja saponin). Herein, four fluorescent nanoprobes were also synthesized and thoroughly characterized: S,N-co-doped GQDs, α-cyclodextrin-GQDs, β-cyclodextrin-GQDs, and γ-cyclodextrin-GQDs. The goal was to achieve a selective dual sensing strategy for free VD3 and VD3Ms by exploiting their distinctive quenching behaviors. Thus, the four nanosensors allowed the individual sensing of both targetsto be performed (except α-CD-GQD for VD3Ms), but S,N-GQDs were finally selected due to selectivity and sensitivity (quantum yield, QY= 0.76) criteria. This choice led to a photoinduced electron transfer (PET) mechanism associated with static quenching, where differentiation was evidenced through a displayed 13-nm hypsochromic (blue) shift when interacting with VD3Ms. The reliability of this dual approach was demonstrated through an extensive evaluation of analytical performance characteristics. The feasibility and accuracy were proven in commercial food preparations and nutritional supplements containing declared nanoencapsulated and raw VD3, whose results were validated by a paired Student's t-test comparison with a UV-Vis method. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first non-destructive analytical approach addressing the groundbreaking foodomic trend to distinctly detect different bioactive forms of vitamin D3, while also preserving their native nanostructures as achemical challenge, thus providing reliable information about their final stability and bioavailability.

Challenges for Leading Edge node FINFET

The primary focus of this work is to find out the challenges associated with 7nm node finFET. To enable the current generation of gadgets/instruments, foundries are going toward smaller geometries (FinFET 7nm, 5nm, etc.) for manufacturing SOC/ASIC. To support the 7nm technology node without EUV, the Layout Design Rules have been scaled quite aggressively. As a result, obtaining satisfactory performance and yield in High Volume Manufacturing (HVM) has become a difficult undertaking. The gains in terms of power, performance, and other characteristics that become available with reduced geometries are the main drivers driving this movement. Analog/mixed-signal circuits, on the other hand, do not fully achieve these gains. They get increasingly difficult to design, with higher parasitic resistance and capacitance, more layout-dependent effects, and, in certain cases, layout growth. While in terms of fabrication the challenges are in node and cost, mask making, patterning, transistor formation, BEOL, MEOL, Technology parasitic elements and process control etc. This indicate what are the challenges for design of 7nm node FinFET.

Numerical simulation of wave-number effects on the performance of traveling wave pump-turbine in turbine mode

Pumped storage represents an economically viable, highly efficient, and extensive energy storage solution, receiving substantial research attention worldwide. This study utilized the energy dissipation of fish swimming in the water, and the traveling wave plate was arranged in a vertical rectangular flow channel to obtain energy through reverse thinking. Numerical simulation was employed to investigate the performance characteristics of the traveling wave turbine under varying wave number across high and low water head. The results reveal that the efficiency at low water head starts to increase and then decreases with the increase of wave number. There is an optimal wave number N = 4 to maximize turbine efficiency, and the maximum efficiency under low water head condition is 89.35 %. The efficiency of the high head condition shows a continuous upward trend, with a maximum value of 92.27 % in the range of wave number studied. With the increase of wave number, the instantaneous mass flow coefficient and power coefficient become more stable. The advantage of increasing the wave number is that more traveling wave plates can participate in energy capture, which is conducive to reducing the force required by each traveling wave plate and making the pressure distribution in each working cavity more regular.

Battery‐free ultra‐low‐power radio‐frequency receiver for mm‐wave applications using 130‐nm CMOS technology with harvested DC supplies

SummaryThis paper presents a battery‐free ultra‐low‐power (ULP), highly integrated, and wide‐bandwidth low‐IF radio‐frequency (RF) receiver designed for millimeter‐wave (mm‐Wave) applications, utilizing 130‐nm CMOS technology. The suggested RF receiver is suitable for K‐band (n258) at 26 GHz, Ka‐band (n261 and n257) at 28 GHz, and the LMDS band at 28 GHz in fifth‐generation applications. The proposed radio receiver consists of a low‐noise driver stage implemented using a complementary current‐reuse common gate with an active shunt feedback configuration and an in‐phase/quadrature‐phase (I/Q) demodulator. The proposed RF receiver employs transformer coupling to isolate the DC path between the transconductance stage (RF stage) and the switching stage (IF stage). The driver stage expands the RF input impedance while maintaining acceptable linearity and gain with ultra‐low DC power dissipation. The DC supplies for the proposed mm‐Wave RF receiver are generated using two novel energy‐harvesting voltage doubler circuits to provide positive and negative voltages. The proposed mm‐Wave radio receiver consumes 0.475 mW from a 1.1 V DC supply and exhibits a power conversion gain (CG) of 6.3 dB, with a 3 dB frequency bandwidth extending from 22 to 32 GHz. The input 1‐dB compression point (P1dB) of the RF receiver is −2.65 dBm, and the input third‐order intercept point (IIP3) is 7.35 dBm. With a sensitivity of −66.5 dBm at a 100 MHz channel bandwidth and a dynamic range of 63.85 dB, the suggested receiver demonstrates notable performance characteristics. The proposed radio receiver boasts an excellent figure of merit (FoM) at 215 dB, surpassing published works by a margin of 8–31 dB. The primary positive supply voltage is derived from a double‐band positive voltage doubler with series resonance feedback and parallel resonance networks, efficiently achieving the desired DC voltage and output current (1.1 V and 450 μA). Meanwhile, the negative gate bias is provided by a negative voltage doubler, ensuring the necessary negative voltage (−0.5 V) without any current conditions.

ТЕРМОСТОЙКОСТЬ ЗАЛИВОЧНЫХ ПЕНОПОЛИИЗОЦИАНУРАТОВ

In the modern construction industry for increasing the thermal resistance of structures and reducing heat losses, casting foams based on reactive oligomers with high performance characteristics are widely used. At the same time, special attention is paid to the use of polyisocyanurate foams (PIR). However, in the scientific and technical literature there are practically no data on the influence of the composition of polyisocyanurate foams on their thermal properties. The purpose of this work is to determine the influence of isocyanate/polyol ratio, modifier content (trichloropropyl phosphate) and apparent density of foams on thermal properties of casting PIRs. The thermal properties of PIRs, when heated in the temperature range of 30-800 ⁰C in nitrogen atmosphere and in air, were investigated using a multimodal thermal analytical complex DuPont-9900 (heating rate 20°C/min). It is revealed that thermo-oxidative decomposition of polyisocyanurate foams is a pronounced, two-stage process, and the destruction of PIR in inert medium (nitrogen) is a one-stage process, which indicates different mechanisms of decomposition of foams in air and nitrogen. As a result of experimental studies, it was revealed that the investigated PIRs are more resistant to thermo-oxidative degradation than to thermal degradation. The thermal properties of the above foams depend on the isocyanate/polyol ratio and TCPP content. The density of polyisocyanurate foams insignificantly affects their thermal stability. At the optimal content of initial components PIRs have higher thermal resistance compared to rigid polyurethane foams (FPU).

Engineering of Polystyrene/BiFeO3 0–3 Thin Film Nanocomposites for Mechanical Energy Harvesting

AbstractThis work describes impact of concentration of BiFeO3 submicrometric particles on piezoelectric performance and structural characteristics of 0–3 polymer composites with a polystyrene matrix. Bismuth ferrite particles are fabricated using reverse co‐precipitation method, followed by ultrasonic dispersion in a solvent to break up agglomerates formed during sintering, resulting in particles with a size of ≈200 nm. It is found that concentrations higher than 10 wt% BiFeO3 lead to a disturbance in natural organization of polystyrene. The hindered organization of side‐groups by submicrometric filler, occurring during solvent evaporation, strongly affects the mechanical properties of the finalcomposite, significantly increasing Young's modulus and tensile strength, but decreasing elongation. Such behavior is detected and described for the firsttime in literature. Piezoelectric examinations show that the thermal depolarization of nanogenerators has a different impact depending on the amountof piezoelectric phase. The study reveals that a voltage of over 4.8 V is generated when dynamic air pressure is applied at 11.54 bar for the composite containing only 2.5 wt% BiFeO3. For composites with 10% weight fraction or lower, decrease in generated voltage after thermal depolarization is about 24%, while for higher weight fractions (15 and 20 wt%) the decrease is around 35%.

Predicting combustion, performance, and emission characteristics of a compression ignition engine utilising coconut oil methyl ester and MoO3 nanoparticles

The present study used a blend of biofuel and nanoparticles to examine the effectiveness and emission properties of a four-stroke, single-cylinder, direct-injection diesel engine with an injection pressure of 250 bar. The use of MoO3 in biodiesel enhances its environmental sustainability and dependability, making it a promising substitute for traditional diesel fuel. The study emphasises the ecological advantages of using a combination of coconut oil and MoO3 to accomplish the production of renewable energy. MoO3 nanoparticles ultimately function as an oxidation catalyst, enhancing combustion. A study with MoO3 nanoparticles at 50 and 100 ppm concentrations was carried out. Utilising a photo spectrometer, stability was determined. The CI engine demonstrated improved thermal efficiency and reduced Fuel Consumption compared to diesel, both at full load conditions and at 64.5 bar pressure. The performance, combustion, and emission parameters were precisely forecasted using Design Expert, exhibiting a robust connection with the testing results. The Rb values for Brake Specific Fuel Consumption (BSFC), Brake Thermal Efficiency (BTE), Peak Cylinder Pressure (P-CA), Net Heat Release Rate (NHRR), Crankcase Heat Release Rate (CHRR), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Unburned Hydrocarbons (UHC), Nitrogen Oxides (NOX), and Smoke Opacity are 0.997, 0.9998, 0.8898, 0.979, 0.9838, 0.9815, 0.9917, 0.9958, and 0.9261 respectively.

Review on Processing, Flame‐Retardant Properties, and Applications of Polyethylene Composites with Graphene‐Based Nanomaterials

AbstractThis paper presents recent developments in graphene‐based nanomaterial (GNM)‐containing flame‐retardant (FR) polyethylene (PE) composites for advanced applications and introduces knowledge gaps and potential solutions. Various nanomaterials have been used to improve the FR properties of PEs. Among these, GNMs score highly because of their superior performance and multifunctional characteristics. By offering a holistic overview of the fundamentals of the FR characteristics of GNMs, the processing and characterization of PE/GNM composites, and the critical aspects related to the development of FR PE/GNM composites for advanced applications, this review provides insights into advances in this area as well as prospects. Furthermore, the kinetics of the FR characteristics of PE and PE/GNM composites are critically discussed in the context of how the FR properties of PE/GNM composites can be tailored by modifying either the surface of the GNM, PE or both, an area seldom discussed in the literature. Moreover, the FR performance of PE/GNM composites is compared with PE/Expandable Graphite (EG) composites because EG has been recognized as a highly efficient and eco‐friendly intumescent FR. In summary, this review offers new insights into the design of advanced PE/GNM composites for automotive, construction, aerospace, and electronic packaging applications.

Advancements in MIMO Antennas for Enhanced Performance in 5G Smartphones Communication

In this review paper provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in multiple input multiple output (MIMO) antenna designs for 5G smartphones. There are various antenna configurations that are discussed along with benefit and limitations. The paper also examines key challenges such as antenna mutual coupling, isolation and the size constraints inherent in smartphones. Furthermore, the impact of MIMO antenna design on 5G smartphone performance characteristics such as gain, radiation efficiency and spatial multiplexing capability is also analyzed. Finally, future research directions and potential innovations in MIMO antenna technology for 5G smartphones are identified to address emerging requirements and opportunities in next-generation wireless communication systems. The comprehensive comparison of different MIMO antenna performance is also given.

Prediction of the Performance and emission characteristics of diesel engine using diphenylamine Antioxidant and ceria nanoparticle additives with biodiesel based on machine learning

This study explores the impact of incorporating antioxidants diphenylamine (DPA) and nanoparticle ceria (CeO2) into Jatropha biodiesel (B30) blend on engine performance and exhaust emissions. The fuel blends utilized in this study consists of diesel, B30, B30 with 100 ppm of antioxidant diphenylamine (B30+DPA100), and B30 with 50 ppm of antioxidant diphenylamine and 50 ppm of nanoparticle ceria (B30+DPA50+CeO250). The experiments were designed using the design of experiment methodology, and they were conducted using various fuels to assess both engine performance and exhaust emissions characteristics. Further, machine learning algorithms (multilayer perceptron, random forest regression, and K-nearest neighbors) has been employed to develop a model for accurately predicting experimental outcomes. The K-nearest neighbors model surpassed the multilayer perceptron and random forest regression models, demonstrating a higher coefficient of determination value and precise outcome predictions. The experimental results reveal that adding antioxidants diphenylamine and nanoparticles ceria at 50 ppm to B30 significantly reduced nitrogen oxides emissions. Compared to B30, B30+DPA50+CeO250 showed a 6.35 % decrease in brake specific fuel consumption and an 8.68 % reduction in nitrogen oxides emissions. However, there was a slight increase of 5.74 % in brake thermal efficiency. Additionally, B30+DPA50+CeO250 exhibited a 2.54 % reduction in maximum cylinder pressure compared to B30.

Experimental investigation of effect of different configurations of semi-circular or half-round ribs on heat transfer enhancement in a rectangular duct

This research study investigated the impact of various configurations of semi-circular or half-round ribs on the thermal performance and frictional factor characteristics of a rectangular duct. During this research study, the ribs were provided on the inner surface of the test section’s bottom wall. Six distinct configurations of semi-circular ribs varying from continuous to hybrid arrangement were used. The range of Reynolds number was varied from 13,500 to 34,800; while the ratio of rib pitch to rib height (P/e ratio) was kept constant at 8. The ratio of the height of rib to hydraulic diameter of duct (also known as blockage ratio) was kept at 0.114. The results of experimental investigation showed that the Nusselt number ratio obtained was ranging from 1.36 to 2.74, while the friction factor ratio ranges from 1.70 to 4.51. The overall enhancement ratio for all configurations obtained was in the range of 1.06–1.80 times to that of plain duct. Among all rib configurations, the hybrid rib configuration showed superior ratio of Nusselt number and intermediate increase in ratio of friction factor as compared to all the other rib configurations. Hybrid rib configuration showed overall enhancement ratio values ranging from 1.45 to 1.80 times as compared to that of plain duct (duct without ribs) within the specified range of Reynolds number. The results of study showed that the hybrid configuration of semi-circular ribs exhibited superior overall thermal enhancement as compared to that of remaining tested rib configurations.

Incorporation of yeast treated Dialium bark meal on growth performance, blood indices and intestinal physiology of broilers

Incorporation of beneficial microbes to enhance the nutritive value of non-traditional feed additives is presently being promoted as a cost-effective way of increasing animal performance. Therefore, this trial investigated the impact of the incorporation of Dialium bark meal treated with yeast (TS) into broiler diets on intestinal histology, growth, and blood characteristics. One hundred and eighty days old Ross 308 broiler chickens were assigned to three treatments with five replications of 12 birds in a complete randomized design. The treatments were designed as (TS0: control) which is the (starter and finisher) diets without TS additive; whereas the TS0.5 and TS1.0 diets have TS additive at 0.5 and 1.5 g kg−1, respectively. The feeding trial lasted for 56 days comprising (28 days each for starter and finisher phases). Feed intake, body weight gains (BWG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were determined at the end of the starter and finisher phases. Blood and intestinal histomorphological indices were determined at the end of the finisher phase. Results indicate that TS contains 8.15 % crude protein, 29.84 % crude fibre, and 11.61 % ash. In addition, starter broilers in the TS0.5 and TS1.0 groups gained less weight and had a higher feed intake than those in the TS0 group. Broilers (29–56 d) in the TS0.5 and TS1.0 groups recorded better (p < 0.05) final live weight (FLW), BWG, and FCR than those in the TS0 group. Feed intake responded linearly to increasing TS levels in the diet during the finisher production phase. Broilers in group TS1.0 tended (p < 0.05) to have higher haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, red blood cell count, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration compared to those in group TS0. Conversely, there were no treatment effects (p > 0.05) on mean cell volume, white blood cells, lymphocytes, heterophils, and serum biochemical variables. Broilers on TS diets had significantly improved histoarchitecture of the jejunum in broilers. In conclusion, results suggest that Dialium bark meal treated (TS) with dried active yeast is high in fibre and ash, and its addition at 0.5 and 1.0 g kg−1 feed improved body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, aspects of the blood characteristics and intestinal histomorphology of the jejunum of broilers at the finisher production phase. It is recommended that TS can be added to broiler finisher diet up to 1.0 g kg−1 feed for best growth performance, intestinal histomorphological, and blood characteristics.