Participatory Experimentation with Energy Law:Digging in a ‘Regulatory Sandbox’ for Local Energy Initiatives in the Netherlands

To facilitate energy transition, regulators have devised ‘regulatory sandboxes’ to create a participatory experimentation environment for exploring revision of energy law in several countries. These sandboxes allow for a two-way regulatory dialogue between an experimenter and an approachable regulator to innovate regulation and enable new socio-technical arrangements. However, these experiments do not take place in a vacuum but need to be formulated and implemented in a multi-actor, polycentric decision-making system through collaboration with the regulator but also energy sector incumbents, such as the distribution system operator. Therefore, we are exploring new roles and power division changes in the energy sector as a result of such a regulatory sandbox. We researched the Dutch executive order ‘experiments decentralized, sustainable electricity production’ (EDSEP) that invites homeowners’ associations and energy cooperatives to propose projects that are prohibited by extant regulation. Local experimenters can, for instance, organise peer-to-peer supply and determine their own tariffs for energy transport in order to localize, democratize, and decentralize energy provision. Theoretically, we rely on Ostrom’s concept of polycentricity to study the dynamics between actors that are involved in and engaging with the participatory experiments. Empirically, we examine four approved EDSEP experiments through interviews and document analysis. Our conclusions focus on the potential and limitations of bottom-up, participatory innovation in a polycentric system. The most important lessons are that a more holistic approach to experimentation, inter-actor alignment, providing more incentives, and expert and financial support would benefit bottom-up participatory innovation

Computational Static Aeroelasticity Using Nonlinear Structures and Aerodynamics Models

Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/106442/1/AIAA2013-1862.pd

FAULT DIAGNOSIS OF GENERATION IV NUCLEAR HTGR COMPONENTS USING THE ENTHALPY-ENTROPY GRAPH APPROACH

Abstract: Fault diagnosis (FD) is an important component in modern nuclear power plant (NPP) supervision to improve safety, reliability, and availability. In this regard, a significant amount of experience has been gained in FD of generation II and III water-cooled nuclear energy systems through active research. However, new energy conversion methodologies as well as advances in reactor and component technology support the study of different FD methods in modern NPPs. This paper presents the application of the enthalpy-entropy (h-s) graph for FD of generation IV nuclear high temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) components. The h-s graph is adapted for fault signature generation by comparing actual operating plant graphs with reference models. Multiple input feature sets (patterns) are generated for the fault classification algorithm based on the error, area, and direction of the fault residuals. The effectiveness of the FD method is demonstrated by classifying 24 non-critical single faults in the main power system of the Pebble Bed Modular Reactor (PBMR) during normal steady state operation as well as load following of the plant. Reference and fault data are calculated for the thermo-hydraulic network by means of a simulation model in Flownex ® Nuclear. The results show that the proposed FD method produces different uncorrelated fault signatures for all the examined fault conditions

Degenerative trends of the palmaris longus muscle in a South African population

The literature reports that the palmaris longus muscle (PL) is only found in mammals in which the forelimbs are weight-bearing extremities. It is suggested that the function of this muscle has been taken over by the other flexors in the forearm. Terms used in the literature to describe the diminishing of this muscle include retrogressive or phylogenetic degenerative trends. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of PL in a South African population and whether a phylogenetic degenerative trend for the PL exists. To determine the prevalence of the PL, five groups, representing different age intervals (Years 0–20, 21–40, 41–60, 61–80, and 81–99) were used. A sample of 706 participants of various ages was randomly selected. Statistical analysis included comparisons of the prevalence of the muscle between males and females and left and right sides, using a student t-test. A Chi-squared test was used to determine a possible phylogenetic degenerative trend of PL within the five groups. The sample yielded a bilateral absence of the PL in 11.9% of the cases. The muscle was unilaterally absent on the left side in 7.65% and 6.94% on the right side. The Chi-squared tests revealed a P-value of 0.27 for the left arm and 0.39 for the right arm. No obvious trend could be established for the phylogenetic degeneration of the PL in this study. It would appear that the PL muscle should not be considered as a phylogenetically degenerating muscle in a South African population.http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1002/(ISSN)1098-2353hb201

Point de perfusion intra-osseux alternatif théorique chez les enfants gravement hypovolémiques

BACKGROUND : Studies have shown that the venous system tends to collapse during hypovolemic shock. The use of the bone marrow space for infusions is an effective alternative, with the tibial insertion site being the norm. OBJECTIVES : This study was conducted to determine a quick intraosseous infusion method that could be an alternative to the tibial route in neonates during emergency situations. METHOD : A sample of 30 neonatal cadavers was dissected to explore a possible alternative to the tibial insertion site. The needle was inserted in the superolateral aspect of the humerus. The needle infusion site was then dissected to determine possible muscular and neurovascular damage that might occur during the administration of this procedure, with the greatest concern being the posterior circumflex humeral artery and axillary nerve exiting the quadrangular space. The distance of the needle insertion site was measured in relation to the soft tissue as well as to bony landmarks. RESULTS : The calculated 95% confidence interval shows that the needle can be safely inserted into the intraosseous tissue at the greater tubercle of the humerus 9.5 mm – 11.1 mm from the acromion. This is about a little finger’s width from the acromioclavicular joint. CONCLUSION : Anatomically, the described site is suggested to offer a safe alternative access point for emergency infusion in severely hypovolemic newborns and infants, without the risk of damage to any anatomical structures.CONTEXTE : Des études ont montré que le système veineux tendait à l’effondrement lors d’un choc hypovolémique. L’utilisation de l’espace de la moelle osseuse pour des perfusions est une alternative efficace, le point d’insertion tibial étant la norme. OBJECTIFS : Cette étude a été menée afin d’établir une méthode de perfusion intra-osseuse rapide qui pourrait être une alternative à la voie tibiale chez les nouveau-nés lors de situations d’urgence. METHODE : Un échantillon de 30 cadavres néonatals a été disséqué pour explorer une alternative possible au point d’insertion tibial. L’aiguille a été insérée dans la partie supéro-externe de l’humérus. Le point de perfusion de l’aiguille a ensuite été disséqué afin de déterminer d’éventuels dommages musculaires et neurovasculaires qui auraient pu se produire lors de l’administration de cette procédure, la plus grande préoccupation étant l’artère circonflexe humérale postérieure et le nerf axillaire sortant de l’espace quadrangulaire. La distance entre le point d’insertion de l’aiguille a été mesurée par rapport au tissu mou et à des repères osseux. RESULTATS : L’intervalle de confiance à 95% calculé montre que l’aiguille peut être insérée en toute sécurité dans le tissu intra-osseux au niveau du tubercule majeur de l’humérus à 9.5 mm – 11.1 mm de l’acromion. Ceci représente environ la largeur d’un petit doigt à partir de l’articulation acromio-claviculaire. CONCLUSION : Sur le plan anatomique, on suggère le point décrit afin d’offrir un point d’accès alternatif sûr pour la perfusion d’urgence chez les nouveau-nés et les nourrissons gravement hypovolémiques, sans risque de dommage aux structures anatomiques.http://www.phcfm.orgam201

Descriptive study of the differences in the level of the conus medullaris in four different age groups

In performing neuraxial procedures, knowledge of the location of the conus medullaris in patients of all ages is important. The aim of this study was to determine the location of conus medullaris in a sample of newborn/infant cadavers and sagittal MRIs of children, adolescents and young adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The subjects of both the samples were subdivided into four developmental stages. No statistical difference was seen between the three older age groups (p>0.05). A significant difference was evident when the newborn/infant stage was compared with the other, older stages (p<0.001 for all comparisons). RESULTS: In the newborn/infant group the spinal cord terminated most frequently at the level of L2/L3 (16%). In the childhood stage, the spinal cord terminated at the levels of T12/L1 and the lower third of L1 (21%). In the adolescent population, it was most often found at the level of the middle third of L1 and L1/L2 (19%). Finally, in the young adult group, the spinal cord terminated at the level of L1/L2 (25%). This study confirmed the different level of spinal cord termination between newborns/infants less than one year old and subjects older than one year. In this sample the conus medullaris was not found caudal to the L3 vertebral body, which is more cranial than the prescribed level of needle insertion recommended for lumbar neuraxial procedures. CONCLUSION: It is recommended that the exact level of spinal cord termination should be determined prior to attempting lumbar neuraxial procedures in newborns or infants.http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1002/(ISSN)1098-23532016-07-31hb201

The value of Tuffier’s line for neonatal neuraxial procedures

The spine of L4 usually lies on a line drawn between the highest points of the iliac crests (Tuffier’s line) in adults. Although its accuracy has been questioned, it is still commonly used to identify the spinous process of the 4th lumbar vertebra before performing lumbar neuraxial procedures. In children, this line is said to cross the midline at the level of L5. A literature search revealed that the description this surface anatomical line is vague in neonates. The aims of this study were to determine the vertebral level of Tuffier’s line, as well as its distance from the apex of the sacrococcygeal membrane (ASM), in 39 neonatal cadavers in both a prone and flexed position. It was found that when flexed, Tuffier’s line shifted from the level of L4/L5 (prone position) to the upper third of L5. The mean distance from the ASM to Tuffier’s line was 23.64mm when prone and 25.47mm when flexed, constituting a statistically significant increase in the distance (p=0.0061). Therefore, in the absence of advanced imaging modalities, Tuffier’s line provides practitioners with a simple method of determining a level caudal to the termination of the spinal cord, at approximately the L4/L5 in a prone neonate and the upper margins of L5 when flexed.http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1002/(ISSN)1098-2353hb201

Revisiting the anatomy of the ilio-inguinal/iliohypogastric nerve block

BACKGROUND : The ilio-inguinal/iliohypogastric nerve block (INB) is one of the most common peripheral nerve block techniques in pediatric anesthesia, which is largely due to the introduction of ultrasound (US) guidance. Despite the benefits of US guidance, the absence of an US machine should not deter the provider from performing INB, considering that many institutions, especially in developing countries, cannot afford to provide ultrasound machines in their anesthesiology departments. The aim of this study was to revisit the anatomical position of the ilio-inguinal and iliohypogastric nerves in relation to the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS), in a large sample of neonatal cadavers, and compare the results with a similar group in a previously published US-guided study. METHODS : With Ethics Committee approval, the ilio-inguinal and iliohypogastric nerves were carefully dissected in 54 neonatal cadavers. RESULTS : In the total sample, the ilio-inguinal nerve was found to be 2.2 1.2 mm from the ASIS, on a line connecting the ASIS to the umbilicus. The iliohypogastric nerve was on average 3.8 1.3 mm from the ASIS. For the entire sample, the optimal needle insertion site was 3.00 mm from the ASIS. Although there is a strong correlation between the needle insertion point and the weight of the neonate, this will only ‘fit’ for 60%of the population. CONCLUSION : The linear regression formula; needle insertion distance (mm) = 0.6 9 weight + 1.8 can be used as a guideline for the position of the ilio-inguinal and iliohypogastric nerves.http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/(ISSN)1460-9592hb201

Detection of the tulip breaking virus (TBV) in tulips using optical sensors

The tulip breaking virus (TBV) causes severe economic losses for countries that export tulips such as the Netherlands. Infected plants have to be removed from the field as soon as possible. There is an urgent need for a rapid and objective method of screening. In this study, four proximal optical sensing techniques for the detection of TBV in tulip plants were evaluated and compared with a visual assessment by crop experts as well as with an ELISA (enzyme immunoassay) analysis of the same plants. The optical sensor techniques used were an RGB color camera, a spectrophotometer measuring from 350 to 2500 nm, a spectral imaging camera covering a spectral range from 400 to 900 nm and a chlorophyll fluorescence imaging system that measures the photosynthetic activity. Linear discriminant classification was used to compare the results of these optical techniques and the visual assessment with the ELISA score. The spectral imaging system was the best optical technique and its error was only slightly larger than the visual assessment error. The experimental results appear to be promising, and they have led to further research to develop an autonomous robot for the detection and removal of diseased tulip plants in the open field. The application of this robot system will reduce the amount of insecticides and the considerable pressure on labor for selecting diseased plants by the crop expert. © 2010 The Author(s

Clinical anatomy of the maxillary nerve block in pediatric patients

BACKGROUND : Anatomical landmarks in children are mostly extrapolated from studies in adults. Despite this, complex regional anesthetic procedures are frequently performed on pediatric patients. Sophisticated imaging techniques are available but the exact position, course and/or relationships of the structures are best understood with appropriate anatomical dissections. Maxillary nerve blocks are being used for peri-operative analgesia after cleft palate repair in infants. However, the best approach for blocking the maxillary nerve in pediatric patients has yet to be established. OBJECTIVE : To determine the best approach for blocking the maxillary nerve within the pterygopalatine fossa. METHODS : In an attempt to define an optimal approach for maxillary nerve block in this age group three approaches were simulated and compared on 10 dried pediatric skulls as well as 30 dissected pediatric cadavers. The needle course, including depth and angles, to block the maxillary nerve, as it exits the skull at the foramen rotundum within the pterygopalatine fossa, was measured and compared. Two groups were studied: Group 1 consisted of skulls and cadavers of neonates (0–28 days after birth) and Group 2 consisted of skulls and cadavers from 28 days to 1 year after birth. RESULTS : No statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) was found between the left and right side of each skull or cadaver. Only technique B, the suprazygomatic approach from the frontozygomatic angle towards the pterygopalatine fossa, exhibited no statistical significance (P > 0.05) when other measurements made on the skulls and cadavers were compared. Technique A, a suprazygomatic approach from the midpoint on the lateral border of the orbit, as well as technique C, an infrazygomatic approach with an entry at a point on a vertical line extending along the lateral orbit wall, showed statistical significant differences when measurements of the skulls and cadavers were compared. CONCLUSIONS : On the basis of these findings technique B produces the most consistent data for age groups 1 and 2 and supports the clinical findings recently reported.National Research Foundation (NRF)http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/(ISSN)1460-95922015-07-30hb201