Energy and Exergy Analysis of Water-LiBr Absorption Systems with Adiabatic Absorbers for Heating and Cooling

AbstractSolar energy can be used to produce cold through absorption systems. In this study, the energy and exergy analysis on a single effect water-LiBr absorption facility is presented. The work is carried out for heating and cooling applications. Performance parameters are the coefficient of performance and exergy efficiency. The influence of operating temperatures on such parameters is included. An analysis of individual components is also presented. The most noticeable effect is observed for the case of exergy efficiency for absorber and generator. This parameter increases with an increase of absorption temperature. The opposite effect is observed when the generation temperature increases. Results obtained allow the identification of parameters that may influence the exergy efficiency of the adiabatic absorption system. The first candidate to optimize is the absorber, due to the lowest value of exergy efficiency obtained among all components of the system. For adiabatic absorbers, the recirculation ratio emerges as a new parameter. The solution heat exchanger is also susceptible to optimization

Clinical presentations and outcomes of Filipino juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Objective</p> <p>Juvenile Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) varies by location and ethnicity. This study describes the clinical, laboratory profile and outcome of juvenile SLE seen at Philippine General Hospital (PGH) from 2004-2008.</p> <p>Method</p> <p>Medical charts of all Filipino Juvenile SLE cases admitted at PGH during the 5-year period were reviewed collecting demographic profile, clinical and laboratory manifestations and treatment during disease course.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Seventy-eight cases of juvenile SLE were reviewed. There were 7 boys and 71 girls. The mean age at diagnosis was 14 years (SD 2.7) with a range of 8-18 years. Fever (52.5%) and malar rash (41.0%) were the most common features at disease onset. At the time of diagnosis, the most common features were malar rash (65.3%), renal involvement (62.8%) and photosensitivity (55.1%). Mucocutaneous (92.3%), renal (71.7%) and hematologic (69.2%) involvement were the most common features during the entire course of illness. Infection (34.5%) and neurologic (19.0%) complications were observed most frequently. Corticocosteroid treatment was given in most of the patients in the form of prednisone (97.4%) and concomitant methylprednisolone intravenous pulses (29.4%). Nine patients died during the study period. The overall 5-year mortality rate was 11.5%. Infection (77.0%) was the most frequent cause of death.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Malar rash was a common feature at disease onset and at diagnosis among Filipinos with juvenile SLE. Throughout the disease course, renal involvement occurs in 71.7% of patients. Infection was the leading cause of complication and death. The clinical presentations of Filipinos with juvenile SLE were similar to juvenile SLE in other countries.</p

Prácticas culturales discordantes en torno al Wahil Kol en Campeche, expresión cultural en proceso de activación patrimonial

Differences in the perception and cultural practice among Mayan inhabitants of Ich Ek, Campeche, about the Wahil kol, an agricultural ceremony, shows that cultural heritage might be in a process of resistance. This is due to a social dynamic of tension, which goes from indifference or rejection, to interest, enthusiasm and concern for its reinterpretation. The diversity of points of view, rather than being evidence of a threat to heritage, could help to protect it. We suggest that the intangible heritage should be recognised as the “cultural expression in the process of patrimonial activation”. This would be explained through the analysis of contradictions and diversity of opinions, the personalized induction of cultural practices and the political, social and economic context which accompanies traditional elements of culture, thus incentivising or reactivating social interaction dynamics within ritual activities

Clinical, radiological, and molecular diagnosis of progressive fibrodysplasia ossificans

Background: Progressive fibrodysplasia ossificans is a rare genetic disease with heterozygous mutations (autosomal dominant inheritance) in the ACVR1 gene, which causes progressive heterotopic ossification in muscles, tendons, and ligaments, usually secondary to trauma. The ossification foci generate pain, joint ankyloses, and restricted movement. Congenital shortening and medial deviation first metatarsal of the foot is a distinctive feature. This report aimed to present an educational value case of a patient with clinical, imaging, and molecular diagnosis of progressive fibrodysplasia ossificans, recognized as a rare condition that severely affects the quality of life. Case report: We present the case of a 6-year-old female patient with lumps in the right scapular and dorsal region, progressive joint rigidity, and short first metatarsal medially deviated since birth. By imaging studies, we established the diagnosis of progressive fibrodysplasia ossificans. Sanger sequencing of ACVR1 reported c.617G>A (p.Arg206His). Conclusions: Confirmation of the diagnosis allowed genetic counseling, including a comprehensive explanation of the disease’s natural history and measures to prevent its rapid progression