bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revised International Staging System for Multiple Myeloma: A Report From International Myeloma Working Group
Authors: Palumbo Antonio , Avet-Loiseau Hervé , Oliva Stefania , Lokhorst Henk M. , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Rosinol Laura , Richardson Paul , Caltagirone Simona , Lahuerta Juan José , Facon Thierry , Bringhen Sara , Gay Francesca , Attal Michel , Passera Roberto , Spencer Andrew , Offidani Massimo , Kumar Shaji , Musto Pellegrino , Lonial Sagar , Petrucci Maria T. , Orlowski Robert Z. , Zamagni Elena , Morgan Gareth , Dimopoulos Meletios A. , Durie Brian G.M. , Anderson Kenneth C. , Sonneveld Pieter , San Miguel Jésus , Cavo Michele , Rajkumar S. Vincent , Moreau Philippe
Published: August 2015

Purpose

The clinical outcome of multiple myeloma (MM) is heterogeneous. A simple and reliable tool is needed to stratify patients with MM. We combined the International Staging System (ISS) with chromosomal abnormalities (CA) detected by interphase fluorescent in situ hybridization after CD138 plasma cell purification and serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) to evaluate their prognostic value in newly diagnosed MM (NDMM).

Patients and Methods

Clinical and laboratory data from 4,445 patients with NDMM enrolled onto 11 international trials were pooled together. The K-adaptive partitioning algorithm was used to define the most appropriate subgroups with homogeneous survival.

Results

ISS, CA, and LDH data were simultaneously available in 3,060 of 4,445 patients. We defined the following three groups: revised ISS (R-ISS) I (n = 871), including ISS stage I (serum β2-microglobulin level < 3.5 mg/L and serum albumin level ≥ 3.5 g/dL), no high-risk CA [del(17p) and/or t(4;14) and/or t(14;16)], and normal LDH level (less than the upper limit of normal range); R-ISS III (n = 295), including ISS stage III (serum β2-microglobulin level > 5.5 mg/L) and high-risk CA or high LDH level; and R-ISS II (n = 1,894), including all the other possible combinations. At a median follow-up of 46 months, the 5-year OS rate was 82% in the R-ISS I, 62% in the R-ISS II, and 40% in the R-ISS III groups; the 5-year PFS rates were 55%, 36%, and 24%, respectively.

Conclusion

The R-ISS is a simple and powerful prognostic staging system, and we recommend its use in future clinical studies to stratify patients with NDMM effectively with respect to the relative risk to their survival.
Sex-Specific Placental Responses in Fetal Development
Authors: Rosenfeld Cheryl S.
Published: August 2015

The placenta is an ephemeral but critical organ for the survival of all eutherian mammals and marsupials. It is the primary messenger system between the mother and fetus, where communicational signals, nutrients, waste, gases, and extrinsic factors are exchanged. Although the placenta may buffer the fetus from various environmental insults, placental dysfunction might also contribute to detrimental developmental origins of adult health and disease effects. The placenta of one sex over the other might possess greater ability to respond and buffer against environmental insults. Given the potential role of the placenta in effecting the lifetime health of the offspring, it is not surprising that there has been a resurging interest in this organ, including the Human Placental Project launched by the National Institutes of Child Health and Human Development. In this review, we will compare embryological development of the laboratory mouse and human chorioallantoic placentae. Next, evidence that various species, including humans, exhibit normal sex-dependent structural and functional placental differences will be examined followed by how in utero environmental changes (nutritional state, stress, and exposure to environmental chemicals) might interact with fetal sex to affect this organ. Recent data also suggest that paternal state impacts placental function in a sex-dependent manner. The research to date linking placental maladaptive responses and later developmental origins of adult health and disease effects will be explored. Finally, we will focus on how sex chromosomes and epimutations may contribute to sex-dependent differences in placental function, the unanswered questions, and future directions that warrant further consideration.
Fetal Hematopoietic Stem Cells Are the Canaries in the Coal Mine That Portend Later Life Immune Deficiency
Authors: Laiosa Michael D. , Tate Everett R.
Published: August 2015

Disorders of the blood system are a significant and growing global health concern and include a spectrum of diseases ranging from aplastic anemia and leukemias to immune suppression. This array of hematological disorders is attributed to the fact that the blood system undergoes a perpetual cycle of turn over with aged and exhausted red and white blood cells undergoing daily replacement. The foundational cells of this replenishment process are comprised of rare hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) located in the bone marrow that possess the dual function of long-term self-renewal and multilineage differentiation. This constant turnover makes the hematopoietic system uniquely vulnerable to changes in the environment that impact multilineage differentiation, self-renewal, or both. Notably, environmental endocrine-disrupting exposures occurring during development, when HSCs are first emerging, can lead to alterations in HSC programming that impacts the blood and immune systems throughout life. In this review, we describe the process of fetal hematopoiesis and provide an overview of the intrauterine environmental and endocrine-disrupting compounds that disrupt this process. Finally, we describe research opportunities for fetal HSCs as potential sentinels of later-life blood and immune system disorders.
Life-Long Implications of Developmental Exposure to Environmental Stressors: New Perspectives
Authors: Grandjean Philippe , Barouki Robert , Bellinger David C. , Casteleyn Ludwine , Chadwick Lisa H. , Cordier Sylvaine , Etzel Ruth A. , Gray Kimberly A. , Ha Eun-Hee , Junien Claudine , Karagas Margaret , Kawamoto Toshihiro , Lawrence B. Paige , Perera Frederica P. , Prins Gail S. , Puga Alvaro , Rosenfeld Cheryl S. , Sherr David H. , Sly Peter D. , Suk William , Sun Qi , Toppari Jorma , van den Hazel Peter , Walker Cheryl L. , Heindel Jerrold J.
Published: August 2015

The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) paradigm is one of the most rapidly expanding areas of biomedical research. Environmental stressors that can impact on DOHaD encompass a variety of environmental and occupational hazards as well as deficiency and oversupply of nutrients and energy. They can disrupt early developmental processes and lead to increased susceptibility to disease/dysfunctions later in life. Presentations at the fourth Conference on Prenatal Programming and Toxicity in Boston, in October 2014, provided important insights and led to new recommendations for research and public health action. The conference highlighted vulnerable exposure windows that can occur as early as the preconception period and epigenetics as a major mechanism than can lead to disadvantageous “reprogramming” of the genome, thereby potentially resulting in transgenerational effects. Stem cells can also be targets of environmental stressors, thus paving another way for effects that may last a lifetime. Current testing paradigms do not allow proper characterization of risk factors and their interactions. Thus, relevant exposure levels and combinations for testing must be identified from human exposure situations and outcome assessments. Testing of potential underpinning mechanisms and biomarker development require laboratory animal models and in vitro approaches. Only few large-scale birth cohorts exist, and collaboration between birth cohorts on a global scale should be facilitated. DOHaD-based research has a crucial role in establishing factors leading to detrimental outcomes and developing early preventative/remediation strategies to combat these risks. (Endocrinology 156: 3408-3415, 2015)
Stem Cells as Hormone Targets That Lead to Increased Cancer Susceptibility
Authors: Prins Gail S. , Calderon-Gierszal Esther L. , Hu Wen-Yang
Published: August 2015

Major advances during the past decade have permitted a clearer understanding of processes that regulate stem cell self-renewal and lineage commitment toward differentiated progeny that populate all tissues. Considerable evidence has also accumulated to indicate that aberrations in the stem and progenitor cell populations can lead to increased cancer risk in specific organs systems. It is long recognized that environmental factors play a major role in cancer etiology, and emerging data suggest that endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) may contribute to an increased cancer risk. Using the prostate gland as a model system, the present review highlights recent data that find that estrogens and EDCs can reprogram prostate stem and progenitor cell populations, leading to increased cancer susceptibility. We propose that stem cell programming during early development in hormone-regulated tissues may lead to heightened sensitivity to early-life EDC exposures and that aberrant stem cell reprogramming by EDCs may contribute to the developmental basis of adult cancer risk.
Developmental Origins of Health and Disease: Integrating Environmental Influences
Authors: Heindel Jerrold J. , Balbus John , Birnbaum Linda , Brune-Drisse Marie Noel , Grandjean Philippe , Gray Kimberly , Landrigan Philip J. , Sly Peter D. , Suk William , Slechta Deborah Cory , Thompson Claudia , Hanson Mark
Published: August 2015

There are now robust data supporting the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) paradigm. This includes human and animal data focusing on nutrition or environmental chemicals during development. However, the term DOHaD has not been generally accepted as the official term to be used when one is concerned with understanding the pathophysiological basis for how environmental influences acting during early development influence the risk of later noncommunicable diseases. Similarly, there is no global research or public health program built around the DOHaD paradigm that encompasses all aspects of environment. To better inform the global health efforts aimed at addressing the growing epidemic of chronic noncommunicable diseases of environmental origin, we propose a two-pronged approach: first, to make it clear that the current concept of DOHaD comprehensively includes a range of environmental factors and their relevance to disease occurrence not just throughout the life span but potentially across several generations; and second, to initiate the discussion of how adoption of DOHaD can promote a more realistic, accurate, and integrative approach to understanding environmental disruption of developmental programming and better inform clinical and policy interventions. (Endocrinology 156: 3416–3421, 2015)
Air Pollution and Neuropsychological Development: A Review of the Latest Evidence
Authors: Suades-González Elisabet , Gascon Mireia , Guxens Mònica , Sunyer Jordi
Published: August 2015

For the last decade, literature on the detrimental impacts of air pollution on brain, cognition and behavior has exponentially increased. Our aim is to review the latest epidemiologic literature on the association between outdoor air pollution and neuropsychological developmental in children. Two independent researchers searched for published studies between January 1, 2012 and June 12, 2015 in MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Science direct using defined keywords on outdoor air pollution and neuropsychological development. Selection of articles was based on study eligibility criteria. We encountered sufficient evidence of detrimental effects of pre- or postnatal exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on global intelligence quotient. The evidence was also sufficient for the association between pre- or postnatal exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and autism spectrum disorder, and limited evidence was encountered between nitrogen oxides and autism spectrum disorder. For other exposure-outcome associations reviewed, the evidence was inadequate or insufficient. Although evidence is not yet conclusive and further research is needed, the latest epidemiological studies support the hypothesis that pre- or postnatal exposure to ambient pollution, particularly polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, PM2.5, and nitrogen oxides has a negative impact on the neuropsychological development of children. The public health impact of air pollutants cannot be ignored and the precautionary principle should be applied to protect children.
Age-Related Hearing Loss and Degeneration of Cochlear Hair Cells in Mice Lacking Thyroid Hormone Receptor β1
Authors: Ng Lily , Cordas Emily , Wu Xuefeng , Vella Kristen R. , Hollenberg Anthony N. , Forrest Douglas
Published: August 2015

A key function of the thyroid hormone receptor β (Thrb) gene is in the development of auditory function. However, the roles of the 2 receptor isoforms, TRβ1 and TRβ2, expressed by the Thrb gene are unclear, and it is unknown whether these isoforms promote the maintenance as well as development of hearing. We investigated the function of TRβ1 in mice with a Thrbb1 reporter allele that expresses β-galactosidase instead of TRβ1. In the immature cochlea, β-galactosidase was detected in the greater epithelial ridge, sensory hair cells, spiral ligament, and spiral ganglion and in adulthood, at low levels in the hair cells, support cells and root cells of the outer sulcus. Although deletion of all TRβ isoforms causes severe, early-onset deafness, deletion of TRβ1 or TRβ2 individually caused no obvious hearing loss in juvenile mice. However, over subsequent months, TRβ1 deficiency resulted in progressive loss of hearing and loss of hair cells. TRβ1-deficient mice had minimal changes in serum thyroid hormone and thyrotropin levels, indicating that hormonal imbalances were unlikely to cause hearing loss. The results suggest mutually shared roles for TRβ1 and TRβ2 in cochlear development and an unexpected requirement for TRβ1 in the maintenance of hearing in adulthood.
Perilipin+ embryonic preadipocytes actively proliferate along growing vasculatures for adipose expansion
Authors: Hong Ki Yong , Bae Hosung , Park Intae , Park Dae-Young , Kim Kyun Hoo , Kubota Yoshiaki , Cho Eui-Sic , Kim Hail , Adams Ralf H. , Yoo Ook-Joon , Koh Gou Young
Published: August 2015

Despite the growing interest in adipose tissue as a therapeutic target of metabolic diseases, the identity of adipocyte precursor cells (preadipocytes) and the formation of adipose tissue during embryonic development are still poorly understood. Here, we clarified the identity and dynamic processes of preadipocytes in mouse white adipose tissue during embryogenesis through direct examination, lineage tracing and culture systems. Surprisingly, we found that lipid-lacking but perilipin+ or adiponectin+ proliferating preadipocytes started to emerge at embryonic day 16.5, and these cells underwent active proliferation until birth. Moreover, these preadipocytes resided as clusters and were distributed along growing adipose vasculatures. Importantly, the embryonic preadipocytes exhibited considerable coexpression of stem cell markers, such as CD24, CD29 and PDGFRα, and a small portion of preadipocytes were derived from PDGFRβ+ mural cells, in contrast to the adult preadipocytes present in the stromal vascular fraction. Further analyses with in vitro and ex vivo culture systems revealed a stepwise but dynamic regulation of preadipocyte formation and differentiation during prenatal adipogenesis. To conclude, we unraveled the identity and characteristics of embryonic preadipocytes, which are crucial for the formation and expansion of adipose tissue during embryogenesis.
Vinculin phosphorylation at residues Y100 and Y1065 is required for cellular force transmission
Authors: Auernheimer Vera , Lautscham Lena A. , Leidenberger Maria , Friedrich Oliver , Kappes Barbara , Fabry Ben , Goldmann Wolfgang H.
Published: August 2015

The focal adhesion protein vinculin connects the actin cytoskeleton via talin and integrin with the extracellular matrix. Vinculin consists of a globular head and tail domain, which undergo conformational changes from a closed auto-inhibited conformation in the cytoplasm to an open conformation in focal adhesions. Src-phosphorylation has been suggested to regulate this conformational switch. To explore the role of phosphorylation in vinculin activation, we used knock-out mouse embryonic fibroblasts re-expressing different vinculin mutants in traction microscopy, magnetic tweezer microrheology, FRAP, and actin-binding assays. Compared to cells expressing wildtype or constitutively active vinculin, we found reduced tractions, cytoskeletal stiffness, adhesion strength, and increased vinculin dynamics in cells expressing constitutively inactive vinculin or vinculin where Src-phosphorylation was blocked by replacing tyrosine at position 100 and/or 1065 with non-phosphorylatable phenylalanine. Replacing tyrosines with phospho-mimicking glutamic acid restored cellular tractions, stiffness, adhesion strength as well as vinculin dynamics, and facilitated vinculin-actin binding. These data demonstrate that Src-phosphorylation is necessary for vinculin activation, and that phosphorylation controls cytoskeletal mechanics by regulating force transmission between the actin cytoskeleton and focal adhesion proteins.
Oil Production Cost Function and Oil Recovery Implementation- Evidence from an Iranian Oil Field
Authors: Pashakolaie Vahid Ghorbani , Khaleghi Shahla , Mohammadi Teymor , Khorsandi Morteza
Published: August 2015

In the process of natural depletion of an oil reservoir, the reservoir pressure declines, as does the production rate. To prevent this decline, some oil recovery methods have been proposed. These methods, despite having impacts on the natural depletion production profile, have an impact on the cost function. In this study, we investigated how the cost function (that represents the natural depletion situation of an oil field lifecycle) changes with secondary oil recovery. Gaining more knowledge on this issue is of great importance in future decision making and capacity expansion in the oil industry. Empirical evidence is presented from an oil field in south west of Iran where immiscible gas injection has been applied. For this purpose we have estimated two production cost functions; one corresponds to the current situation of the oil field (with secondary oil recovery), and the other is a simulated situation that represents a natural depletion of the oil field so far. The results showed that the oil production cost function in a situation with secondary recovery has a lower stock effect parameter than compared to that of the natural depletion situation. This implies that the marginal production cost dependency on cumulative production decreases after secondary recovery implementation.
The Detailed Palaeogeomorphologic Restoration of the Ordovician Weathering Crust in the Northern Jingbian Gas Field: Methods and Applications into Reservoir Properties and Gas Accumulation
Authors: Wei Li , Wang Zhenliang , Wang Aiguo , Yu Hongyan , Wang Dongxu , Feng Qianghan , Lan Yifei , Wang Yong
Published: August 2015

Palaeogeomorphology plays a crucial role in the development of sedimentary facies and the reservoir distribution in the late period of basin evolution, and to a certain extent, controls the assemblage of the late hydrocarbon reservoirs and caprock formations. Therefore, it has a function in controlling the enrichment of oil and gas. Caledonian orogeny uplifted the Ordovician Majiagou Formation in the Ordos basin and thus led to the formation of the weathering crust reservoirs in the process of weathering, erosion and leaching for over 130 Ma. Such palaeogeomorphology represents the background of the palaeokarst, which has an essential influence on the formation of reservoir rocks. Based on Pre-carboniferous paleogeologic map plotted by 305 wells, and the thickness of bauxite in 272 wells, methods of residual thickness and moulage are applied to reconstruct the palaeogeomorphology in the studied area. In combination with the thickness of horizon to the weathering crust, the criteria for the second order palaeogeomorphologic units were proposed. They are karst highland, karst slope and karst basin, which can be further subdivided into the third order palaeogeomorphologic units of remnant hill, depression, gentle hill, shallow depression and erosional grooves. According to the criteria and refined identify results of ancient grooves using geological data of 272 wells, palaeogeomorphology of the Ordovician weathering crust in the northern Jingbian gas field has been restored accurately. The results show that karst highland developed in the northwest part of the studied area, with remnant hill and depression occurring locally. Karst slope was present in the central and east, predominatly in the form of gentle hills and shallow depressions, with 5 nearly EW-trending ancient erosional grooves developed locally. Finally, integrated data of reservoir property with gas production test implied that the remnant hill in the karst highland, the gentle hill in the karst slope and the two sides of the erosional grooves were favorable positions for gas accumulation.
Increasing Sorption Isotherms Accuracy: Weibull Modelling and Linear Regression
Authors: Dinis M.A.P. , Rodrigues C.F. , de Sousa M.J. Lemos
Published: August 2015

Relying on an adequate mathematical approach, two different mathematical procedures can be applied to the huge database produced during gas sorption isotherm experiments in order to obtain accurate data to be used in the industrial practice. To treat data determined from gas sorption isotherms without a careful mathematical support will produce inaccurate results, because all the determinations will be dependent on human decision. The minimum error reported since the first stage of a sorption isotherm determination, which corresponds to volume calibrations of reference and sample cells performed through the use of helium, will produce enormous inaccuracies on sorption isotherm behavior. These inaccurate behaviors may sometimes invalidate any Coalbed Methane recovery and CO2 injection programs. The study consisted on investigating gas sorption isotherm accuracies determined during the first part of the sorption process, which is mainly conducted by monitoring the pressure decline with time, in the reference and the sample cells (when both cells are not in contact), until the stabilization stage is achieved. Three samples from two different coals were selected in order to study their gas sorption behavior, in terms of a clear mathematical approach, when submitted to three different gas compositions, viz. 99.999% methane (CH4); 99.999% carbon dioxide (CO2); and a gas mixture containing 74.99% CH4 + 19.99% CO2 + 5.02% nitrogen (N2). Sorption experiments allow to conclude that the three samples present the same mathematical response during the first part of the sorption process. However, all gas sorption data (adsorption and desorption) collected from reference cell have a better fitting to a Modified Weibull Model, and all gas sorption data (adsorption and desorption) collected from sample cell respond in a trustworthy way to a Linear Regression Model. Confidence bands and prediction intervals (or bands) were also computed.
Developing Fracture Measure as an Index of Fracture Impact on Well-Logs
Authors: Mazaheri Atie , Memarian Hossein , Tokhmechi Behzad , Araabi Babak Nadjar
Published: August 2015

Due to the three-dimensional nature of fractures, it is difficult to characterize them completely and accurately. In this paper, a novel fractured zone detection criterion, Fracture Measure (FM), is proposed. FM is a parameter calculated by aperture, fracture type, azimuth and apparent distance. These factors have not been incorporated in previous studies to detect fractured zones. This study attempts to estimate FM by Artificial Neural Network to see if there is any relation between FM and conventional logs and to check the generalization ability of FM. Two datasets were used for the investigation: a real carbonate reservoir of an oil field in Iran and a synthetic heterogeneous reservoir, here incalled SYN. Comparing outputs of heterogeneous and homogeneous conditions showed that the Classification Correctness Rate (CCR) of the model in the homogeneous state was approximately 97%, and in the heterogeneous condition, it was between 74% and approximately 92%. Generalization ability in the homogeneous state varied from 91% to 94%, and in the heterogeneous condition, varied from 52% to 86%. In the real dataset, ANN was able to estimate FM with an average accuracy of approximately 80%and Classification Correctness Rate (CCR) of approximately 100%, which shows that FM could be modeled through well-logs. It is noteworthy that FM is capable of providing a fuzzy measure for fracture study.
The Asymmetric Effect of Oil Price on Growth across US States
Authors: Apergis Nicholas , Aslan Alper , Aye Goodness C. , Gupta Rangan
Published: August 2015

This paper investigates the dynamic relationship between oil prices and growth across the U.S. States using a panel data framework. We use both annual and quarterly data spanning the periods 1973 to 2013 and 1948Q1 to 2013Q4, respectively. Following Hatemi-J (2012), we allow for the presence of asymmetry in the cointegration and causality testing by decomposing oil prices into cumulative sums of positive and negative oil prices. The null hypothesis of no cointegration is rejected. The long-run coefficients are found to be statistically significant across all empirical models, with positive oil prices reducing output, while negative oil prices increasing output. We also find evidence of both short- and long-run bidirectional causality between aggregate oil prices and output. However, there is evidence of unidirectional causality both from positive and negative oil prices to output based on annual data. The quarterly data generated slightly different result, indicating both long- and short-run bidirectional causality between positive and negative oil prices and output.
Life Cycle Cost Analysis: An Evaluation of Renewable Heating Systems in Turkey
Authors: Ates Seyithan A.
Published: August 2015

This paper presents a comparison of the LCC of five heating systems in four climate zones in Turkey. While being a country with huge renewable energy potential, Turkey's energy demand is met to a great extent by imported energy sources which constitute a substantial economic burden for Turkey. In this study, we analyzed the most common heating technologies, namely geothermal district heating systems (GDHS), natural gas-fired boilers, pellet-fired boilers, ground coupled heat pumps (GCHP) and coal-fired boiler technologies in terms of various criteria including life cycle cost (LCC), accessibility, initial investment cost, technical infrastructure, resource cost and annual heat cost. This study is vital to determine the shortcomings and strengths of the renewable heating (REH) technologies, both economically and technologically against non-REH technologies. The outcomes of the study may eventually assist home owners, property developers and policy makers in taking informed decisions in case of new construction or renovation, or proposing new policy mechanisms to promote the REH technologies. This study revealed that, due to the high labor intensity, inadequate supply chain of energy sources and structural constrains; REH technologies are not cost competitive against non-REH technologies in Turkey. Turkey is expected to revisit its medium-term energy policy to ensure wide application of REH technologies, introduce encouraging support mechanisms, and prioritize REH technologies on the basis of Turkey's resource mix and policy goals. If appropriate policies are in place and obstacles are eliminated, the potential of renewable energy can be exploited and market expansion of REH technologies can be realized.
Active Headrest with Robust Performance against Head Movement
Authors: Lei Chengyou , Xu Jian , Wang Jie , Zheng Chengshi , Li Xiaodong
Published: August 2015

In an active noise-reducing headrest with virtual microphones, the noise attenuation achieved at the ears of the listener usually decreases significantly as the head moves away from the central seat position. This paper presents a study on designing an active headrest with robust performance against head movement. To solve this problem, a minimax optimization problem is presented to design appropriate plant models for the system. Experiments are carried out on an active headrest system with the remote microphone technique. Experimental results show that the proposed method can extend the lateral head movement range from 2 cm to about 6 cm, within which the active headrest provides noise attenuation of greater than 10 dB for both ears of the listener, and thus improve the performance robustness of the active headrest system.
Permanent and Semi-Permanent Road Traffic Noise Monitoring in the City of Nis (Serbia)
Authors: Mihajlov Darko I. , Prascevic Momir R.
Published: August 2015

This paper deals with the procedure of long-term road traffic noise monitoring in urban areas. For the purpose of strategic noise mapping and assessment of harmful effects of environmental noise it is necessary to determine the annual value of noise indicators, mainly by long-term measurements, which can be realized by permanent and semi-permanent noise monitoring. The permanent noise monitoring includes noise measurements of 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while the semi-permanent monitoring typically ranges from a few days up to several weeks or months. The research described in this paper was conducted with the aim to determine adequate duration of semi-permanent monitoring of road traffic noise in the city of Nis to enable cost-effective monitoring of road traffic noise and determination of noise indicators at multiple locations with only a few noise monitoring stations. Based on the presented sets of measurement results at three locations, it can be concluded that road traffic noise monitoring with a duration of one month yields very acceptable and repeatable values for road traffic noise assessment for the three observed locations. Likewise, the semi-permanent road traffic noise monitoring with a duration of one week or only during workdays yields very usable values for the determination of annual value of noise indicators, which can be used for road traffic noise survey.
Aircraft Random Vibration Analysis Using Active Landing Gears
Authors: Sivakumar S. , Haran A. P.
Published: August 2015

In this article, random vibration analysis of full aircraft with passive and active landing gears has been done by numerical simulations on random runway profile. The mathematical model of full aircraft with active landing gears and modelling of runway profiles have been developed for analysing the aircraft bounce, pitch, roll accelerations, displacement and shock strut travel while taxiing on random runways. The results show that vibration levels of the aircraft by the active landing gear system is less than the conventional landing gear system while taxiing on different grades of random runways. Comparison results also show that the active system improves the ride comfort and easiness of pilot handling and thus, increases the fatigue life of the aircraft.
Application of an Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System for Low Speed Planetary Gearbox Vibration Control
Authors: Watany Mohamed , Eltantawie Manar A. , Abouel-Seoud Shawki A.
Published: August 2015

The gear pair assembly remains one of the major vibration sources in power transmission systems of mechanical rotating machinery. The gear vibration signature is often dominated by several high-level tonal peaks that occur at the fundamental gear mesh and its harmonics. The primary forcing function is produced by the gear transmission error excitation resulting from tooth profile errors, misalignment and elastic deformation. The excessive dynamic response generated can frequently lead to structural fatigue failure. Therefore, it is highly desirable to control the low-speed planetary gearbox rotational vibration acceleration levels. To achieve this goal, the present study demonstrates a method by which these vibrations produced due to the primary forcing function originating from the mesh points can be controlled. Hence, to deal with both the meshing stiffness generation and vibration transmissibility processes more effectively, the control system must be applied close to the gear's connection. This close proximity will allow the application of a single controller. Selection of the proper rule base depending upon the situation can be achieved by the use of an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) controller as an integrated approach for purposes of control to yield excellent results, and this is the highlight of this paper. The results presented in the paper show that the outputs take less time to stabilize. Moreover, due to incorporation of the ANFIS controller with the plant, it is observed that the gearbox reaches the desired vibration very quickly in relatively shorter time.
A Numerical and Experimental Study of Optimal Velocity Feedback Control for Vibration Suppression of a Plate-Like Structure
Authors: Boz Utku , Aridogan Ugur , Basdogan Ipek
Published: August 2015

This study presents a numerical and an experimental study on an active vibration control system. The system includes a fully-clamped plate and two surface bonded piezoelectric actuators and a collocated velocity sensor at one of the actuator locations. One of the piezoelectric actuators is used for disturbance actuation and the other one is used for control actuation. A model based optimal velocity feedback controller is used as control algorithm. The disturbance and actuator models are obtained through experimental characterization of the plate under the effect of the disturbance source. A representative SIMULINK model is built in parallel to the development of the experimental setup in order to investigate performance of the controller for various control parameters. After the model based optimal controller is designed, performance of the optimal velocity feedback controller is validated with the experimental study by comparing the vibration suppression values at multiple modes of the structure. Results show that the developed control methodology effectively suppresses the vibration amplitudes at multiple modes of the structure and also vibration attenuation levels can be predicted accurately with the simulations for various controller design parameters. It is also demonstrated that using an optimal controller enhances the performance of the system as opposed to just using velocity feedback algorithm for the active vibration control of the smart plate.
Mass Regimes: Geometric Actuation of Thermal Behavior
Authors: Cupkova Dana , Azel Nicolas
Published: August 2015

The Mass Regimes is a research project that investigates the effect of complex geometry on processes of passive heat distribution in thermal mass systems. In the context of systems thinking, this research intends to instrumentalize design principles that engage a wider range of design tactics for choreographing thermal gradients between buildings and their environment. Research for this project has brought about a deeper understanding of how specific geometric manipulations of surface area over the same mass (Figure 1) affect the rate of thermal transfer. Leveraging physical simulations of geometric populations, along with current computational and design tools, the project sheds light on performative trends that may enhance creative design explorations in the use of passive systems. Preliminary analysis of varied geometric populations suggest an exciting trend and the possibility for a more synthetic incorporation of morphology, one in which surface geometry can be passively utilized to generate effects with more fidelity over the pace of thermal absorption and the release of sensible heat.
Harnessing Design Space: A Similarity-Based Exploration Method for Generative Design
Authors: Erhan Halil , Wang Ivy Y. , Shireen Naghmi
Published: August 2015

Working with multiple alternatives is a central activity in design; therefore, we expect computational systems to support such work. There is a need to find out the tool features supporting this central activity so that we can build new systems. To explore such features, we propose a method that aims to enable interaction with a large number of design alternatives by similarity-based exploration. Using existing data analysis and visualization techniques adopting similarity-based search, we formalized the method and its elements by focusing on systematic filtering, clustering, and choosing alternatives. We present a scenario on developing conceptual designs for a residential apartment to illustrate how the method can be applied, as well as to reveal the limitation of current tools and the potential interactive clustering and filtering features for the new systems coupled with parametric design.
Case Report: Pheochromocytoma-related catecholamine cardiomyopathy with successful outcomes after orthotopic heart transplantation
Authors: Ullal Jagdeesh , Old Wayne , Silverberg Marc L. , Nguyen-Buckley Christine , Miller Rebecca E. , Richardson Donald
Published: August 2015

Pheochromocytomas (rare catecholamine-producing neuroendocrine tumors) have many different manifestations, and complications can occasionally include myocardial infarction and cardiomyopathy.  In a majority of cases, cardiomyopathy reverses following medical or surgical treatment of the pheochromocytoma.  We report a case of a 28-year-old male patient with preoperative diagnosis of pheochromocytoma and for whom a successful adrenalectomy revealed a benign pheochromocytoma. The patient had decompensation of heart failure and subsequent needed heart transplantation for irreversible cardiomyopathy; this gave a good outcome three years post-transplant.  The heavy burden of atherosclerosis and fibrosis in a young patient with few cardiac risk factors and the irreversible cardiac damage are unique features of this case. This is also the first report (to our knowledge) of a patient with a pheochromocytoma that was surgically resected but who subsequently needed cardiac transplantation. We conclude that catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy may be irreversible if there is structural damage to myocytes despite adequate medical and surgical treatment of a pheochromocytoma.
A Case Study of the Impediments to the Commercialization of Research at the University of Kentucky
Authors: Vanderford Nathan L. , Marcinkowski Elizabeth
Published: August 2015

The commercialization of university-based research occurs to varying degrees between academic institutions. Previous studies have found that multiple barriers can impede the effectiveness and efficiency by which academic research is commercialized. This case study was designed to better understand the impediments to research commercialization at the University of Kentucky via a survey and interview with three successful academic entrepreneurs. The study also garnered insight from the individuals as to how the commercialization process could be improved. Issues with commercialization infrastructure; a lack of emphasis, at the university level, on the importance of research commercialization; a void in an entrepreneurial culture on campus; inhibitory commercialization policies; and a lack of business and commercialization knowledge among faculty were highlighted as the most significant barriers. The research subjects also suggested that commercialization activity may generally increase if a number of factors were mitigated. Such insight can be communicated to the administrative leadership of the commercialization process at the University of Kentucky. Long term, improving university-based research commercialization will allow academic researchers to be more active and successful entrepreneurs such that intellectual property will progress more freely to the marketplace for the benefit of inventors, universities and society.
Creating 3D visualizations of MRI data: A brief guide
Authors: Madan Christopher R.
Published: August 2015

While magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data is itself 3D, it is often difficult to adequately present the results papers and slides in 3D. As a result, findings of MRI studies are often presented in 2D instead. A solution is to create figures that include perspective and can convey 3D information; such figures can sometimes be produced by standard functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) analysis packages and related specialty programs. However, many options cannot provide functionality such as visualizing activation clusters that are both cortical and subcortical (i.e., a 3D glass brain), the production of several statistical maps with an identical perspective in the 3D rendering, or animated renderings. Here I detail an approach for creating 3D visualizations of MRI data that satisfies all of these criteria. Though a 3D ‘glass brain’ rendering can sometimes be difficult to interpret, they are useful in showing a more overall representation of the results, whereas the traditional slices show a more local view. Combined, presenting both 2D and 3D representations of MR images can provide a more comprehensive view of the study’s findings.
Case Report: A case report highlighting bilateral EDB wasting as a clinical marker for lumbar canal stenosis
Authors: Kumar Bijoy Mohan , Munakomi Sunil
Published: August 2015

Herein we discuss a case of a 55 year old male presenting with history suggestive of sciatica on the left leg. Straight leg raising (SLR) test was positive at 45 degrees on the left side. His ankle reflex was absent and the power of extensor hallusus longus (EHL) was 4/5 on the same side. MRI lumbosacral spine revealed left paramedian disc prolapsed on L4/L5 level with spinal canal diameter of 9mm.However since his bilateral extensor digitorm brevis (EDB) were wasted, we suspected associated lumbar canal stenosis and thereby opted for laminectomy and discectomy in this case. Intraoperatively dural wasting, hypertrophied facets and narrow canal were confirmed. Laminectomy, medial facectectomy and discectomy were carried out. The patient recovered uneventfully with resolution of his sciatica-like pain. Bilateral EDB wasting thereby provides a clinical clue to the underlying lumbar canal stenosis and can help in making correct therapeutic decisions.
Midwifery in Wales
Authors: Rogers Helen , Jones Kathleen
Published: August 2015

As part of our series on the UK and Ireland's midwifery policy, Helen Rogers and Kathleen Jones discuss the strengths and challenges of maternity care in Wales.
Endodontic treatment part 2: root canal preparation and obturation
Authors: Emery Chris
Published: August 2015

In this three-part series, Chris Emery discusses a case study of a patient who has a pulpitis. In this article, the root canal is prepared and obturated, with the help of the dental nurse
Use of personal protective equipment in dental practices
Authors: Howe Shaun
Published: August 2015

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is designed to protect the person wearing it from pathogens and protects the patient from pathogens that could be picked up in dental practices. This article updates an article published in 2012, updating legislation on infection control and decontamination
The involvement of older people in their rehabilitation: Generating a substantive grounded theory
Authors: Rickard Norman AS , Clarke Charlotte L
Published: August 2015

Aims:

To identify the process of involvement in rehabilitation and produce a substantive theory of involvement based on data from a grounded theory study.

Methods:

Qualitative data were collected longitudinally from 4 older people and 15 health care staff during the older people's stay in a rehabilitation unit in the UK and after discharge. Data were collected as recorded interviews with the older person in rehabilitation, interviews with their practitioners and routine conversations between the participants and staff.

Results:

This study describes the components of involvement and how they interact within therapeutic relationships. The results suggest that involvement in rehabilitation operates through a set of involvement attributes, which are either psychologically based or action-based. The involvement attributes are: vision and incentive with goal planning, setting and achievement; a disposition towards rehabilitation; personal learning; and risk taking, all of which operate within therapeutic relationships. To be maximally involved, the involvement attributes have to be strong and balanced, with alignment between the psychologically based and action-based attributes.

Conclusions:

The findings of this research and substantive grounded theory suggest that the process of involvement is managed through a set of involvement attributes within therapeutic relationships. This substantive theory of involvement is associated with earlier research and provides a fuller understanding of the process of involvement of older people in rehabilitation. Further research is now needed to demonstrate the transferability of this substantive theory in other settings and with other client groups.
Nonlinear Dynamic Modeling of a Fixed-Wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle: a Case Study of Wulung
Authors: Triputra Fadjar Rahino , Trilaksono Bambang Riyanto , Adiono Trio , Sasongko Rianto Adhy , Dahsyat Mohamad
Published: August 2015

Developing a nonlinear adaptive control system for a fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) requires a mathematical representation of the system dynamics analytically as a set of differential equations in the form of a strict-feedback systems. This paper presents a method for modeling a nonlinear flight dynamics of the fixed-wing UAV of BPPT Wulung in any conditions of the flight altitude and airspeed for the first step into designing a nonlinear adaptive controller. The model was formed into 10-DOF differential equations in the form of strict-feedback systems which separates the terms of elevator, aileron, rudder and throttle from the model. The model simulation results show the behavior of the flight dynamics of the Wulung UAV and also prove the compliance with the actual flight test results.
A Study on the Production of Isophthalic Acid from M-xylene under the Catalysis of Cobalt and H3PW12O40/Carbon Modified by HNO3 Solution
Authors: Wang Zhi-hao , Yang Zhi-lin , Wu Shi-ming , Long Xiang-li
Published: August 2015

The oxidation of m-xylene(MX) to isophthalic acid(IPA) catalyzed by phosphotungstic acid(HPW) supported on modified activated carbon was investigated. The activated carbon loading with HPW is modified by HNO3 solution to ameliorate its catalytic capability in the oxidation of MX to IPA. Experiments have been carried out to study the effects of modification conditions, such as HNO3 concentration, impregnation time, impregnation temperature, activation temperature and activation time, on the catalytic performance of activated carbon. The experimental results demonstrate that the carbon sample impregnated in 10%(vol) HNO3 solution at 45°C for 8 h followed by calcined at 700°C for 4 h has the best catalytic capability. The characterization results imply that the specific surface area and micropores of the carbon samples decrease after being treated with HNO3 solution. But the acidic functional groups on the activated carbon surface increase, which play a vital role in improving the catalytic ability of the HPW/C catalyst in the oxidization of m-xylene to IPA.