scholarly journals Methodology for Measuring Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Agricultural Soils Using Non-isotopic Techniques

2021 ◽  
pp. 11-108
Author(s):  
M. Zaman ◽  
K. Kleineidam ◽  
L. Bakken ◽  
J. Berendt ◽  
C. Bracken ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Agricultural Soils ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Emission Measurement ◽  
Closed Chamber ◽  
Advantages And Disadvantages ◽  
Flux Measurements ◽  
Cost Effective Alternative ◽  
User Friendly ◽  
Closed Chambers

AbstractSeveral approaches exist for measuring greenhouse gases (GHGs), mainly CO2, N2O, and CH4, from soil surfaces. The principle methods that are used to measure GHG from agricultural sites are chamber-based techniques. Both open and closed chamber techniques are in use; however, the majority of field applications use closed chambers. The advantages and disadvantages of different chamber techniques and the principal steps of operation are described. An important part of determining the quality of the flux measurements is the storage and the transportation of the gas samples from the field to the laboratory where the analyses are carried out. Traditionally, analyses of GHGs are carried out via gas chromatographs (GCs). In recent years, optical analysers are becoming increasingly available; these are user-friendly machines and they provide a cost-effective alternative to GCs. Another technique which is still under development, but provides a potentially superior method, is Raman spectroscopy. Not only the GHGs, but also N2, can potentially be analysed if the precision of these techniques is increased in future development. An important part of this chapter deals with the analyses of the gas concentrations, the calculation of fluxes, and the required safety measures. Since non-upland agricultural lands (i.e. flooded paddy soils) are steadily increasing, a section is devoted to the specificities of GHG measurements in these ecosystems. Specialised techniques are also required for GHG measurements in aquatic systems (i.e. rivers), which are often affected by the transfer of nutrients from agricultural fields and therefore are an important indirect source of emission of GHGs. A simple, robust, and more precise methodof ammonia (NH3) emission measurement is also described.

Development of Calibration Equipment for Geodetic Angle Measurement Instruments

2015 ◽  
Vol 220-221 ◽  
pp. 396-400
Author(s):  
Lauryna Šiaudinytė ◽  
Deividas Sabaitis ◽  
Domantas Bručas ◽  
Gintaras Dmitrijev
Keyword(s):  
Low Cost ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Angle Measurement ◽  
Measurement Instruments ◽  
Measurement Systems ◽  
Complex Processes ◽  
Cost Effective Alternative ◽  
Reducing Costs ◽  
The Cost

Production of high precision circular scales is a complicated process requiring expensive equipment and complex processes to achieve. Precision angle measurement equipment tends to be very expensive and therefore not accessible to all in need. Simplification of production of such devices can lead to reducing costs of angle measurement systems ensuring easier accessibility. A new method of producing precision circular scales using low cost mass production can reduce the costs of these devices drastically. Therefore, utilising a common CD technology as the basis for such scales is analysed. This paper deals with the analysis of the newest laser cutting method for plastic circular scales. Preliminary results of manufacturing such scales are presented in the paper as well as measurements of the grating of the scale were performed. The quality of different scales manufactured using different laser types is analysed in the study. The cost – effective alternative of manufacturing circular scales is discussed in the paper.

GROUP COGNITIVE THERAPY: TREATMENT OF CHOICE OR SUB-OPTIMAL OPTION?

2001 ◽  
Vol 29 (3) ◽  
pp. 311-332 ◽  
Author(s):  
Norma Morrison
Keyword(s):  
Group Therapy ◽  
Cognitive Therapy ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Advantages And Disadvantages ◽  
Quality Of Therapy ◽  
Group Format ◽  
Cognitive Behavioural ◽  
Therapy Treatment

In the present climate of limited resources and long waiting lists, it is not surprising that there is more emphasis on making sure that psychological treatments are not only clinically sound but also cost-effective. One solution to this is to provide time-limited, focused interventions such as cognitive therapy. Another obvious solution is to deliver treatment in groups rather than individually. However, what evidence is there that therapy can be delivered as effectively in groups as individually? This review will look at which different formats have been tried, what the advantages and disadvantages of those formats might be, which client groups have been targeted for cognitive- behavioural group therapy (CBGT), and whether a group format in general offers any advantages over individual CBT. Outcome studies and their implications for the use of CBGT are considered. Results suggest that, in most client groups, there is little difference in efficacy between group and individual CBT, although there is some evidence that results for some types of patient can be disappointing in CBGT. It may be that the best compromise in terms of cost- effectiveness between quality of therapy and quantity of patients treated is offered by large-scale psychoeducational didactic group therapy.

Qualitative Assessment of Four Types of Three-Dimensional Printed Anatomical Tibial Bone Models Compared to Commercially Available Models

2020 ◽  
Vol 33 (04) ◽  
pp. 267-273
Author(s):  
Sarah Malek ◽  
Cassandra D. Foster ◽  
Davin H. Huston
Keyword(s):  
Model Development ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Qualitative Assessment ◽  
Tibial Bone ◽  
Cost Effective Alternative ◽  
Polylactide Acid ◽  
Physical Features

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to compare technical and physical features of four three-dimensional printed bone models used for teaching purposes to commercial models. Study Design A canine tibia was imaged using computed tomography and used for model development. Tibial models were printed using Resin, polylactide acid (PLA), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and high-impact polystyrene (HIPS). They were compared with two commercial models (SAWBONES 2117 and 2108). Models were drilled in three locations and then cut transversely. Subjective quality of models, time and cost of production were compared. Results Print time was approximately 3 hours for Resin and 4 hours for each of the PLA, ABS and HIPS models. Unlike the Resin and SAWBONES, the PLA, HIPS and ABS had higher heat generation during both drilling and cutting with mild construct deformation at cut surfaces in ABS and PLA models. Characteristics of real bone during drilling and cutting were best simulated in decreasing order by Resin, PLA, ABS and HIPS followed by SAWBONES 2117 and 2108 models. Material costs were $14.6 (Resin), $0.48 (PLA/ABS), $1.52 (HIPS), $23.50 and $17.50 for SAWBONES 2117 and 2108 per model, respectively. Resin performed best and had the closest subjective tactile properties to real bone. Conclusion The three-dimensional printed tibial bone models provide a cost-effective alternative to commercially available bone models in veterinary medicine as teaching models.

scholarly journals Pesticide Aptasensors—State of the Art and Perspectives

Sensors ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (23) ◽  
pp. 6809
Author(s):  
Kamonrat Phopin ◽  
Tanawut Tantimongcolwat
Keyword(s):  
Mass Spectrometry ◽  
Development Process ◽  
State Of The Art ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Pesticide Analysis ◽  
Future Outlook ◽  
Advantages And Disadvantages ◽  
Resource Requirements ◽  
Recognition Elements ◽  
User Friendly

Contamination by pesticides in the food chain and the environment is a worldwide problem that needs to be actively monitored to ensure safety. Unfortunately, standard pesticide analysis based on mass spectrometry takes a lot of time, money and effort. Thus, simple, reliable, cost-effective and field applicable methods for pesticide detection have been actively developed. One of the most promising technologies is an aptamer-based biosensor or so-called aptasensor. It utilizes aptamers, short single-stranded DNAs or RNAs, as pesticide recognition elements to integrate with various innovative biosensing technologies for specific and sensitive detection of pesticide residues. Several platforms for aptasensors have been dynamically established, such as colorimetry, fluorometry, electrochemistry, electrochemiluminescence (ECL) and so forth. Each platform has both advantages and disadvantages depending on the purpose of use and readiness of technology. For example, colorimetric-based aptasensors are more affordable than others because of the simplicity of fabrication and resource requirements. Electrochemical-based aptasensors have mainly shown better sensitivity than others with exceedingly low detection limits. This paper critically reviews the progression of pesticide aptasensors throughout the development process, including the selection, characterization and modification of aptamers, the conceptual frameworks of integrating aptamers and biosensors, the ASSURED (affordable, sensitive, specific, user-friendly, rapid and robust, equipment-free and deliverable to end users) criteria of different platforms and the future outlook.

scholarly journals An Overview on Atomization and Its Drug Delivery and Biomedical Applications

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (11) ◽  
pp. 5173
Author(s):  
Anu Mohandas ◽  
Hongrong Luo ◽  
Seeram Ramakrishna
Keyword(s):  
Drug Delivery ◽  
Biomedical Applications ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Spray Formation ◽  
Advantages And Disadvantages ◽  
Experimental Parameters ◽  
Different Types ◽  
Cost Effective Technique ◽  
User Friendly ◽  
Process Dimension

Atomization is an intricate operation involving unstable and complex networks with rupture and fusion of liquid molecules. There are diverse details that typify the spray formation, which are the technique and configuration of the atomization process, dimension and structure of the nozzle, experimental parameters, etc. Ultimately, the process generates fine sprays from the bulk of a liquid. Some examples of atomization that we come across in our day-to-day life are antiperspirant or hair spray, shower head, garden sprinkler, or cologne mist. In this review paper we are briefly discussing the theoretical steps taking place in an atomization technique. The instabilities of the jet and sheet are explained to understand the underlying theory that breaks the jet or sheet into droplets. Different types of atomization processes based on the energy sources are also summarized to give an idea about the advantages and disadvantages of these techniques. We are also discussing the various biomedical applications of the electrohydrodynamic atomization and its potential to use as a drug delivery system. In short, this paper is trying to demonstrate the diverse applications of atomization to show its potency as a user friendly and cost-effective technique for various purposes.

scholarly journals Rehabilitation following flexor tendon injury to the hand in African countries: a study protocol for a scoping review

BMJ Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. e045260
Author(s):  
Martin Marume ◽  
Susan De Klerk ◽  
Lee-Ann Jacobs-Nzuzi Khuabi
Keyword(s):  
Scoping Review ◽  
Flexor Tendon ◽  
Grey Literature ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Tendon Injury ◽  
Tendon Injuries ◽  
High Income ◽  
African Countries ◽  
Advantages And Disadvantages

Quality of life is enhanced by engagement in meaningful activities and participation using our hands. In African countries, people rely predominantly on the use of their hands to engage in economic productive activities, including agricultural, fishing, mining and construction, that are largely performed by machines in high-income contexts. Anecdotal evidence suggests a high incidence of flexor tendon injuries that are managed using protocols that were adopted from high-income countries and implemented without considering contextual differences. African therapists use discretion in selecting protocols thereby presenting inconsistency in tendon management. This result in challenges with ascertaining the most effective protocol, factors that influence protocols and the extent of evidence about flexor tendon rehabilitation in Africa. Therefore, this scoping review aims to provide evidence currently available on the rehabilitation of flexor tendons in African countries. This will synthesise the advantages and disadvantages of the current protocols and make proposals that are contextually relevant and cost-effective for rehabilitation of tendon injuries.Methods and analysisThe research will follow the scoping review methodological framework developed by Arksey and O’Malley (2005). The search strategy was developed and will be used to retrieve articles from eight databases. Further literature will be searched in the bibliography of the identified eligible articles. Grey literature will be searched in scientifically reliable websites, organisations and other sources. Articles will be reviewed by two independent researchers and opinion will be sought from a third reviewer when disagreement prevails on the inclusion quality of an article. All relevant articles that meet the criteria will be analysed using Weft QDA.Ethics and disseminationThe scoping review paper will be discussed with local therapists. Thereafter, findings will be published in the year 2021 and sent to rehabilitation associations in respective African countries.

scholarly journals A smart home system based on sensor technology

2016 ◽  
Vol 29 (3) ◽  
pp. 451-460 ◽  
Author(s):  
Boban Davidovic ◽  
Aleksandra Labus
Keyword(s):  
Smart Home ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Sensor Technology ◽  
Raspberry Pi ◽  
Modern World ◽  
End User ◽  
New Approach ◽  
Configurable System ◽  
User Friendly

This paper presents a new approach to utilize technology in a practical and meaningful manner within a smart home system that can be widely deployed into residential settings. In the modern world, people are rapidly turning to technology as a fast and cost-effective way of improving quality of daily living. This primary goal is to address the needs of the end user by employing networked low-power sensors sensitive to the environment, so it can be altered to their liking. The proposed system consists of following steps: direct environment sensing, collecting and analyzing data and then allowing user to customize the settings and initiate specific commands. This research will present the design and implementation of a practical and simple smart home system, which can be further extended. The system is based on: group of sensors, Raspberry Pi device as a server system and Bluetooth as a communication protocol. These devices can be easily controlled via user-friendly interface for Android phones. The main advantage of the proposed system is that it is a sensible, secure and easily configurable system that provides end users with a neat home automation solution.

Effects of Fertilization on Production and Quality of Japanese Honeysuckle

1994 ◽  
Vol 18 (2) ◽  
pp. 68-71 ◽  
Author(s):  
John G. Dyess ◽  
M. Keith Causey ◽  
H. Lee Stribling ◽  
B. Graeme Lockaby
Keyword(s):  
Crude Protein ◽  
Soil Analysis ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Lonicera Japonica ◽  
Crude Protein Content ◽  
Japanese Honeysuckle ◽  
Protein Fiber ◽  
Cost Effective Alternative ◽  
Food Plots

Abstract Effects of fertilization on Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica Thunb.) for improving browse production and quality were studied using paired-comparisons T-tests. Treatment consisted of liming and fertilizing according to soil analysis recommendations. Samples were collected and analyzed in spring (June), autumn (September), and winter (December) for protein, fiber, digestible nutrients and selected minerals. Fertilization increased (P < 0.05) browse production in honeysuckle by an average of 2083 lb/ac in 1989 and 2064 lb/ac in 1990. Fertilization also increased (P < 0.05) crude protein content. Fertilization of selected patches of honeysuckle is a cost-effective alternative to cultivated food plots and would provide year-round, rather than only seasonal, browse for white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). South. J. Appl. For. 18(2):68-71.

Cost–utility analysis comparing radioactive iodine, anti-thyroid drugs and total thyroidectomy for primary treatment of Graves’ disease

2016 ◽  
Vol 175 (6) ◽  
pp. 595-603 ◽  
Author(s):  
Peter J Donovan ◽  
Donald S A McLeod ◽  
Richard Little ◽  
Louisa Gordon
Keyword(s):  
Radioactive Iodine ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Primary Treatment ◽  
Cost Utility ◽  
Base Case ◽  
Graves Disease ◽  
Utility Analysis ◽  
First Line ◽  
Cost Effective Alternative

Objective Little data is in existence about the most cost-effective primary treatment for Graves’ disease. We performed a cost–utility analysis comparing radioactive iodine (RAI), anti-thyroid drugs (ATD) and total thyroidectomy (TT) as first-line therapy for Graves’ disease in England and Australia. Methods We used a Markov model to compare lifetime costs and benefits (quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs)). The model included efficacy, rates of relapse and major complications associated with each treatment, and alternative second-line therapies. Model parameters were obtained from published literature. One-way sensitivity analyses were conducted. Costs were presented in 2015£ or Australian Dollars (AUD). Results RAI was the least expensive therapy in both England (£5425; QALYs 34.73) and Australia (AUD5601; 30.97 QALYs). In base case results, in both countries, ATD was a cost-effective alternative to RAI (£16 866; 35.17 QALYs; incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) £26 279 per QALY gained England; AUD8924; 31.37 QALYs; ICER AUD9687 per QALY gained Australia), while RAI dominated TT (£7115; QALYs 33.93 England; AUD15 668; 30.25 QALYs Australia). In sensitivity analysis, base case results were stable to changes in most cost, transition probabilities and health-relative quality-of-life (HRQoL) weights; however, in England, the results were sensitive to changes in the HRQoL weights of hypothyroidism and euthyroidism on ATD. Conclusions In this analysis, RAI is the least expensive choice for first-line treatment strategy for Graves’ disease. In England and Australia, ATD is likely to be a cost-effective alternative, while TT is unlikely to be cost-effective. Further research into HRQoL in Graves’ disease could improve the quality of future studies.

scholarly journals Influence of the Precoat Layer on the Filtration Properties and Regeneration Quality of Backwashing Filters

Eng ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 2 (2) ◽  
pp. 181-196
Author(s):  
Volker Bächle ◽  
Patrick Morsch ◽  
Marco Gleiß ◽  
Hermann Nirschl
Keyword(s):  
Filter Cake ◽  
Particle Interaction ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Cellulose Fibres ◽  
Cost Effective Alternative ◽  
Filter Aids ◽  
Filtration Properties ◽  
Solid Liquid ◽  
Solid Liquid Separation

For solid–liquid separation, filter meshes are still used across large areas today, as they offer a cost-effective alternative, for example, compared to membranes. However, particle interaction leads to a continuous blocking of the pores, which lowers the flow rate of the mesh and reduces its lifetime. This can be remedied by filter aids. In precoat filtration, these provide an already fully formed filter cake on the fabric, which acts as a surface and depth filter. This prevents interaction of the particles to be separated with the mesh and thus increases the service life of the mesh. In this work, the influence of a precoat layer with different fibre lengths of cellulose on the filtration behavior is investigated. A satin with a pore size of 11 µm is used as the filter medium. The effects of the precoat layer on the filter media resistance, the filter cake resistance, the turbidity impact, and the regenerability of the fabrics are investigated. This study shows an overview of the suitability of various cellulose fibres based on different aspects as filter aids for particles in ultrafine filtration.

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