bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Study of a New Strengthening Technique of RC Beams Using Prestressed NSM CFRP Bars
Authors: Alcaraz Carrillo de Albornoz Vicente , García del Toro Eva M. , Más-López M. Isabel , Luizaga Patiño Alfredo
Published: March 2019

The reinforcement of structural elements subjected to bending with carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) located on the underside of the element to be reinforced (known as near surface mounted or NSM) is an effective technique that provides environmentally sustainable solutions in the field of civil engineering. Introducing preloads on the reinforcing elements allows us to maximize the high performance of CFRPs, besides recovering deformations. A new technique to perform the pre-stressing of CFRP bars in NSM configuration is described in this paper. The technique introduces the preload on the rods after they have been placed in the grooves, and with a system that acts and reacts against the beam itself. We also present the results of a testing campaign conducted to determine the effectiveness of said technique. Breakage of the control beams (without reinforcement) was ductile, while breakage of reinforced beams was explosive. Pre-stressing the reinforcing elements allowed us to increase the bearing capacity of the beams 170% compared to the control beams, also resulting in an increase in the rigidity of the reinforced elements and a decreased cracking of the beam. The results however are only slightly better than those of a conventional CFRP NSM reinforcement, due to the appearance of cavities in the groove where the adhesive didn’t manage to penetrate.
Local and Nonlocal Steering Kernel Weighted Total Variation Model for Image Denoising
Authors: Lai Rui , Mo Yiguo , Liu Zesheng , Guan Juntao
Published: March 2019

To eliminate heavy noise and retain more scene details, we propose a structure-oriented total variation (TV) model based on data dependent kernel function and TV criterion for image denoising application. The innovative model introduces the weights produced from the local and nonlocal symmetry features involved in the image itself to pick more precise solutions in the TV denoising process. As a result, the proposed local and nonlocal steering kernel weighted TV model yields excellent noise suppression and structure-preserving performance. The experimental results verify the validity of the proposed model in objective quantitative indices and subjective visual appearance.
Acute Kidney Injury Induced by Bothrops Venom: Insights into the Pathogenic Mechanisms
Authors: Albuquerque Polianna Lemos Moura Moreira , da Silva Junior Geraldo Bezerra , Meneses Gdayllon Cavalcante , Martins Alice Maria Costa , Lima Danya Bandeira , Raubenheimer Jacques , Fathima Shihana , Buckley Nicholas , Daher Elizabeth De Francesco
Published: March 2019

Acute kidney injury (AKI) following snakebite is common in developing countries and Bothrops genus is the main group of snakes in Latin America. To evaluate the pathogenic mechanisms associated with Bothrops venom nephrotoxicity, we assessed urinary and blood samples of patients after hospital admission resulting from Bothrops snakebite in a prospective cohort study in Northeast Brazil. Urinary and blood samples were evaluated during hospital stay in 63 consenting patients, divided into AKI and No-AKI groups according to the KDIGO criteria. The AKI group showed higher levels of urinary MCP-1 (Urinary monocyte chemotactic protein-1) (median 547.5 vs. 274.1 pg/mgCr; p = 0.02) and urinary NGAL (Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin) (median 21.28 vs. 12.73 ng/mgCr; p = 0.03). Risk factors for AKI included lower serum sodium and hemoglobin levels, proteinuria and aPTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time) on admission and disclosed lower serum sodium (p = 0.01, OR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.57–0.94) and aPTT (p = 0.031, OR = 26.27, 95% CI: 1.34–512.11) levels as independent factors associated with AKI. Proteinuria showed a positive correlation with uMCP-1 (r = 0.70, p < 0.0001) and uNGAL (r = 0.47, p = 0.001). FENa (Fractional Excretion of sodium) correlated with uMCP-1 (r = 0.47, P = 0.001) and uNGAL (r = 0.56, p < 0.0001). sCr (serum Creatinine) showed a better performance to predict AKI (AUC = 0.85) in comparison with new biomarkers. FEK showed fair accuracy in predicting AKI (AUC = 0.92). Coagulation abnormality was strongly associated with Bothrops venom-related AKI. Urinary NGAL and MCP-1 were good biomarkers in predicting AKI; however, sCr remained the best biomarker. FEK (Fractional Excretion of potassium) emerged as another diagnostic tool to predict early AKI. Positive correlations between uNGAL and uMCP-1 with proteinuria and FENa may signal glomerular and tubular injury. Defects in urinary concentrations highlighted asymptomatic abnormalities, which deserve further study.
Ecological and Evolutionary Processes Shaping Viral Genetic Diversity
Authors: Retel Cas , Märkle Hanna , Becks Lutz , Feulner Philine G. D.
Published: March 2019

The contemporary genomic diversity of viruses is a result of the continuous and dynamic interaction of past ecological and evolutionary processes. Thus, genome sequences of viruses can be a valuable source of information about these processes. In this review, we first describe the relevant processes shaping viral genomic variation, with a focus on the role of host–virus coevolution and its potential to give rise to eco-evolutionary feedback loops. We further give a brief overview of available methodology designed to extract information about these processes from genomic data. Short generation times and small genomes make viruses ideal model systems to study the joint effect of complex coevolutionary and eco-evolutionary interactions on genetic evolution. This complexity, together with the diverse array of lifetime and reproductive strategies in viruses ask for extensions of existing inference methods, for example by integrating multiple information sources. Such integration can broaden the applicability of genetic inference methods and thus further improve our understanding of the role viruses play in biological communities.
Specific Interactions between Human Norovirus and Environmental Matrices: Effects on the Virus Ecology
Authors: Amarasiri Mohan , Sano Daisuke
Published: March 2019

Human norovirus is the major cause of non-bacterial epidemic gastroenteritis. Human norovirus binds to environmental solids via specific and non-specific interactions, and several specific receptors for human norovirus have been reported. Among them, histo-blood group antigens (HBGA) are the most studied specific receptor. Studies have identified the presence of HBGA-like substances in the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) of human enteric bacteria present in aquatic environments, gastrointestinal cells, gills, and palps of shellfish, and cell walls, leaves, and veins of lettuce. These HBGA-like substances also interact with human norovirus in a genotype-dependent manner. Specific interactions between human norovirus and environmental matrices can affect norovirus removal, infectivity, inactivation, persistence, and circulation. This review summarizes the current knowledge and future directions related to the specific interactions between human norovirus and HBGA-like substances in environmental matrices and their possible effects on the fate and circulation of human norovirus.
An Analysis of the Effectiveness of Two Rainwater Harvesting Systems Located in Central Eastern Europe
Authors: Stec Agnieszka , Zeleňáková Martina
Published: March 2019

Decentralized water systems are perceived as solutions that not only save water, but also as a way to partially or completely become independent from centralized suppliers. Taking this into account, an analysis of the effectiveness of rainwater harvesting systems (RWHS) for toilet flushing in existing academic facilities located in Poland and in Slovakia was carried out. The tests took into account the different volumes of storage tanks collecting rainwater. On the basis of two financial ratios, namely Net Present Value and Discounted Payback Period, the profitability of these systems was also assessed. The research was extended by the sensitivity analysis, which allowed determination of the impact of changes in individual cost components on the financial effectiveness of the investments considered. The results obtained clearly showed that the implementation of RWHS in the dormitory in Rzeszów was unprofitable for all tank capacities tested, and the payback period significantly exceeded the period of 30 years accepted for the analysis. Completely different results were obtained for RWHS in a dormitory located in the city of Košice, for which the financial ratios NPV (Net Present Value) and DPP (Discounted Payback Period) were very favorable. It was also confirmed by the results of the sensitivity analysis. The use of rainwater for toilet flushing caused that it was possible to achieve water savings of an average of 29% and 18%, respectively, for facilities located in Slovakia and Poland. The results of the research have a practical aspect and can provide an indication for potential investors and managers of academic facilities, similar to those analyzed in the article. Taking into account that in many countries water and sewage rates are significantly higher than in Poland and Slovakia, the cost-effectiveness of using the analyzed installation options in these countries could be even higher.
Algal-Bacterial Symbiosis System Treating High-Load Printing and Dyeing Wastewater in Continuous-Flow Reactors under Natural Light
Authors: Lin Chao , Cao Peng , Xu Xiaolin , Ye Bangce
Published: March 2019

This study investigated the symbiotic structure relationship between mixed algae and activated sludge while treating high-load printing and dyeing wastewater under natural light. The effects of hydraulic retention time (HRT) (12 h, 16 h and 20 h) and aeration rate (0.1–0.15, 0.4–0.5 and 0.7–0.8 L/min) on algal–bacterial symbiosis (ABS) and conventional activated sludge (CAS) systems. Experimental results showed that the ABS system exhibited the best removal performance for chemical oxygen demand (COD), ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N) and total phosphorus (TP), which was increased by 12.5%, 23.1% and 10.5%, respectively, and reduced colour 80 times compared with the printing and dyeing wastewater treatment plant. Algae growth could be promoted under lower dissolved oxygen (DO), and the addition of algae could provide more DO to the ABS system. The particle size distribution of sludge in the ABS system was stable, which guaranteed a stable treatment effect. In addition, the COD and colour could be further degraded under the conditions of no external carbon source and longer HRT. It is expected that the present study will provide a foundation for the practical application of the ABS system, and new insights for the treatment of printing and dyeing wastewater.
Knockdown of lncRNA PVT1 Inhibits Glioma Progression by Regulating miR-424 Expression
Authors: Han Yanjie , Li Xinxin , He Fei , Yan Jiliang , Ma Chunyan , Zheng Xiaoli , Zhang Jinli , Zhang Donghui , Meng Cuiping , Zhang Zhen , Ji Xinying
Published: March 2019

Plasmacytoma variability translocation 1 (PVT1), an oncogene, has been reported to be highly expressed in many tumors, including human glioma, gastric cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer. Functionally, it could also regulate the development of tumor cells. However, its specific roles and pathogenesis in human gliomas are still not clear. This study investigated the function and mechanism of PVT1 knockdown in the proliferation and malignant transformation of human gliomas. We first examined the expression levels of PVT1 and miR-424 in human glioma tissues and cell lines. We also used gene manipulation techniques to explore the effects of PVT1 knockdown on cell viability, migration, invasion, and miR-424. We found that PVT1 knockdown effectively inhibited cell viability, migration, and invasion of human glioma cells and increased miR-424 expression. Based on the negative correlation between PVT1 and miR-424, we then confirmed the direct interaction between PVT1 and miR-424 using RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and luciferase reporter assays. Further, we established a xenograft nude mouse model to determine the role and mechanism of PVT1 on tumor growth in vivo. In addition, PVT1 knockdown was shown to promote miR-424 in vivo. In summary, the present study demonstrated that PVT1 knockdown could negatively regulate miR-424 to inhibit human glioma cell activity, migration, and invasiveness. PVT1 knockdown could negatively regulate miR-424 to inhibit cellular activity, migration, and invasiveness in human gliomas, which explained the oncogenic mechanism of PVT1 in human gliomas. It also suggested that PVT1 might be a novel therapeutic target for human gliomas.
Secreted Phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) Contributes to Second-Generation EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Resistance in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Wang Xinwen , Zhang Fupeng , Yang Xi , Xue Meiping , Li Xiaoli , Gao Yu , Liu Likun
Published: March 2019

Second-generation irreversible epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), afatinib, has been approved for treating EGFR mutant lung cancer patients, but the mechanism of acquired resistance to afatinib has not been well studied. In this study, we
established afatinib acquired resistant cell lines. Gene array technology was used to screen changes in gene expression between afatinib-resistant lung cancer cells and parental cells. Our results showed that secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) was significantly increased in afatinib-resistant
lung cancer cells. To study the effect of SPP1 on afatinib resistance, siSPP1 was used to knock down SSP1 in afatinib-resistant lung cancer cells. Then sensitivity to afatinib and invasive ability were studied. We found that knockdown of SPP1 increased sensitivity of lung cancer cells to afatinib
and decrease the ability of invasion. Of clinical significance, we found that SSP1 was upregulated in lung cancer tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues, and low level of SSP1 was strongly associated with better overall survival. Our results suggest that SPP1 enhanced the second-generation
EGFR TKI resistance in lung cancer, and inhibiting SPP1 might be a therapeutic target to overcome afatinib resistance.
MicroRNA-101 Targets CXCL12-Mediated Akt and Snail Signaling Pathways to Inhibit Cellular Proliferation and Invasion in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Fang , Yang Dongqiang , Ru Yuhua , Cao Shan , Gao Aishe
Published: March 2019

Escalating evidence suggests that microRNA-101 (miR-101) is implicated in the development and progression of various cancers, including papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). However, the biological function and molecular mechanisms of miR-101 in PTC are still unclear. In this study, we
demonstrated that miR-101 expression was significantly decreased in PTC tissues and cell lines. Clinically, a low level of miR-101 was positively associated with advanced histological stages and lymph node and distant metastases. The expression of CXCL12 was negatively correlated with miR-101
level in PTC. CXCL12 was validated as a direct target of miR-101 in PTC cells. Functional experiments proved that miR-101 markedly reduced the proliferation, apoptosis escape, migration, and invasion of PTC cells. Moreover, CXCL12 restoration rescued the suppressive effects of miR-101 on PTC
cells by activating Akt- and EMT-associated signaling pathways. Overall, miR-101 exerts oncostatic effects on PTC by downregulating CXCL12 and repressing its downstream Akt and Snail signaling pathways, suggesting that miR-101/CXCL12/Akt or Snail axis may serve as a potential therapeutic target
for PTC.
Steering Clear: A 3-E Typology of Motorcycle Event Visitors
Authors: Kruger Martinette , Borstlap Hanneri
Published: March 2019

Africa Bike Week, considered South Africa's premier biking event, attracts large numbers of bikers, especially Harley-Davidson bikers, and bike enthusiasts from across the country. However, the relocation of the event to another host city and province could influence the profile, needs, and motives of the motorcycle riders attracted to the event, implying that the event could attract a different market. This research attempted to determine the extent to which the relocation influenced the market by conducting a visitor survey at the event in 2017. Respondents were segmented, based on their motives to attend the event, which provided a 3-E typology of the market, namely Enthusiasts, Escapists, and Entourages. The typology is descriptive of the characteristics that resemble each segment, which should guide marketing campaigns to expand the event. Additionally, the research identified for the first time the attributes that the motorcycle market in South Africa regards as important when selecting routes. This information is valuable, not only for events such as the Africa Bike Week but also for destination managers and marketers who want to expand motorcycle routes and tourism in the country. Moreover, this research provides guidelines to event organizers and marketers on how to efficiently manage the relocation of an event.
Using an Event to Reimage a City and its Port: The 2012 Volvo Ocean Race Finale in Galway
Authors: Collins Patrick , Cawley Mary , Mulligan Emer
Published: March 2019

In this article we analyze the 2012 Volvo Ocean Race (VOR) Finale in Galway City, Ireland as an overt effort to reimage the city by incorporating its maritime attributes more deliberately. We consider the extent to which a global event with an established international marine brand
can be successfully leveraged by a port city in an effort to realize the development potential of the harbor and adjacent lands. Our results draw on two surveys: one administered during the event and a follow up survey administered 2 years after the event and interviews with organizers and
key stakeholders. Making use of a mixed method approach we highlight the limited longer term impact the event has had on repositioning the city towards the maritime and overcoming the long held negative associations with the harbor as a site of emigration and disconnection.
Factors Associated with Receipt of Symptom Screening in the Year after Cancer Diagnosis in a Universal Health Care System: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Mahar Alyson , Davis L. E. , Bubis L. D. , Li Q. , Sutradhar R. , Coburn N.G. , Barbera L.
Published: March 2019

Purpose: Patient-reported symptom data are collected prospectively by a provincial cancer agency to mitigate the significant symptom burden that patients with cancer experience. However, an assessment of whether such symptom screening occurs uniformly for those patients has yet to be performed. In the present study, we investigated patient, disease, and health system factors associated with receipt of symptom screening in the year after a cancer diagnosis. Methods: Patients diagnosed with cancer between 2007 and 2014 were identified. We measured whether 1 or more symptom screenings were recorded in the year after diagnosis. A multivariable modified Poisson regression with robust error variance was used to identify predictors [age, comorbidity, rurality, socioeconomic status, immigration status, cancer site, registration at a regional cancer centre (CC), and year of diagnosis] of being screened for symptoms. Results: Of 425,905 patients diagnosed with cancer, 163,610 (38%) had 1 or more symptom screening records in the year after diagnosis, and 75% survived at least 1 year. We identified variability in symptom screening by primary cancer site, regional CC, age, sex, comorbidity, material deprivation, rurality of residence, and immigration status. Patients who had been diagnosed with melanoma or endocrine cancers, who were not registered at a regional CC, who lived in the most urban areas, who were elderly, and who were immigrants were least likely to undergo symptom screening after diagnosis. Conclusions: Our evaluation of the implementation of a population-based symptom screening program in a universal health care system identified populations who are at risk for not receiving screening and who are therefore future targets for improvements in population symptom screening and better management of cancer-related symptoms at diagnosis.
Metabolic Tumour Volume Is Prognostic in Patients with Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Treated with Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy
Authors: Dosani Maryam , Yang R. , McLay M. , Wilson D. , Liu M. , Yong-Hing C. J. , Hamm J. , Lund C. R. , Olson R. , Schellenberg D.
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) is a relatively new technique for the curative-intent treatment of patients with inoperable early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Previous studies have demonstrated a prognostic value for positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET/CT) parameters, including maximal standardized uptake value (SUVmax), metabolic tumour volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) in lung cancer patients. We aimed to determine which pet/ct parameter is most prognostic of local control (LC) and overall survival (OS) in patients treated with SABR for NSCLC. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of patients treated with SABR for stage i inoperable NSCLC at BC Cancer between 2009 and 2013. The Akaike information criterion was used to compare the prognostic value of the various PET/CT parameters. Results: The study included 134 patients with a median age of 76 years. Median tumour diameter was 2.2 cm, gross tumour volume was 8.1 mL, SUVmax was 7.9, MTV was 2.4 mL, and tlg was 10.9 SUV•mL. The 2-year LC was 92%, and os was 66%. On univariate and multivariate analysis, imaging variables including tumour size, gross tumour volume, SUVmax, MTV, and tlg were all associated with worse LC. Tumour size was not associated with significantly worse OS, but other imaging variables were. The PET/CT parameter most prognostic of LC was MTV. Compared with SUVmax, TLG and MTV were more prognostic of OS. Conclusions: In patients with early-stage NSCLC treated with SABR, MTV appears to be prognostic of LC and OS.
Factors influencing the use by radiation therapists of cancer symptom guides: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Ludwig C. , Renaud J. , Barbera L. , Carley M. , Henry C. , Jolicoeur L. , Kuziemsky C. , Patry A. , Stacey D.
Published: March 2019

Background Radiation therapists play an important role in helping patients to safely manage and triage potentially life-threatening symptoms. The purpose of the present study was to assess factors influencing the use by radiation therapists of evidence-informed symptom practice guides for patients experiencing cancer treatment–related symptoms.Methods In a mixed-methods descriptive study guided by the Knowledge-to-Action framework, interviews and a barriers survey were conducted. Two independent reviewers conducted a content analysis of interview transcripts. Barriers survey data were analyzed using frequency distributions and univariate descriptive statistics. Open-ended data from the surveys underwent content analysis and were triangulated with interview findings.Results Of 90 radiation therapists approached, 58 completed the survey (64%), and 14 were interviewed. Of the 98% who reported providing symptom management to patients undergoing radiation treatment, 53% used evidence-informed practice guidelines. Radiation therapists had moderate moral norms (4.6 of 7) and beliefs about the consequences of using costars (pan Canadian Oncology Symptom Triage and Remote Support) practice guides (4.8), but neutral intention (3.4) and beliefs about their own capabilities (3.9). Environmental barriers included lack of time (2.0), lack of access (2.5), and neutral organizational support (3.0). Radiation therapists identified a need for training (5.5). Common unique barriers to practice guide use were lack of time during radiation treatments, unclear fit with scope of practice, disparate focus on site-specific symptoms, and lack of medication knowledge.Conclusions The symptom practice guides were perceived by the radiation therapists to benefit patients, enhance their own knowledge of symptom management, and promote consistent practice. Additional work is required to identify the scope of practice of radiation therapists within the interprofessional team.
Factors influencing the outcome of stereotactic radiosurgery in patients with five or more brain metastases
Authors: Hamel-Perreault E. , Mathieu D. , Masson-Cote L.
Published: March 2019

Background Stereotactic radiosurgery (srs) for patients with 5 or more brain metastases (bmets) is a matter of debate. We report our results with that approach and the factors influencing outcome.Methods In the 103 patients who underwent srs for the treatment of 5 or more bmets, primary histology was nonsmall- cell lung cancer (57% of patients). All patients were grouped by Karnofsky performance status and recursive partitioning analysis (rpa) classification. In our cohort, 72% of patients had uncontrolled extracranial disease, and 28% had stable or responding systemic disease. Previous irradiation for 1–4 bmets had been given to 56 patients (54%). The mean number of treated bmets was 7 (range: 5–19), and the median cumulative bmets volume was 2 cm3 (range: 0.06–28 cm3).Results Multivariate analyses showed that stable extracranial disease (p < 0.001) and rpa (p = 0.022) were independent prognostic factors for overall survival (os). Moreover, a cumulative treated bmets volume of less than 6 cm3 (adjusted hazard ratio: 2.54; p = 0.006; 95% confidence interval: 1.30 to 4.99) was associated with better os. The total number of bmets had no effect on survival (p = 0.206). No variable was found to be predictive of local control. The rpa was significant (p = 0.027) in terms of distant recurrence.Conclusions Our study suggests that srs is a reasonable option for the management of patients with 5 or more bmets, especially with a cumulative treatment volume of less than 6 cm3.
Adopting Patient-Centred Tools in Cancer Care: Role of Evidence and Other Factors
Authors: Glenn A. , Urquhart Robin
Published: March 2019

Background: Randomized controlled trials (rcts) provide limited evidence to support the use of survivorship care plans (scps), but they provide strong evidence for patient decision aids (ptdas). Despite that evidence, the uptake of ptdas has been limited, but scps are being endorsed and implemented in many cancer programs across Canada. The objective of the present study was to illuminate the decision-making processes involved in the adoption of scps and ptdas. Methods: Informed by the principles of grounded theory, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with clinicians, managers, and administrators who work in cancer care programs across Canada (n = 21). Data were collected and analyzed concurrently, using a constant comparative analysis approach. Data collection ended when theoretical saturation was reached. Results: For these types of patient-centred tools, participants noted that high-quality research evidence is often unnecessary for adoption decisions. Six key factors contribute to adoption or non-adoption decisions for scps and ptdas: (1) Alignment of research evidence with other evidence; (2) Perceived clinician benefit; (3) Endorsement by organizations and professional bodies; (4) Existence of local champions; (5) Adaptability to local contexts; (6) Ability to routinize and reach a large patient population. Conclusions: High-level evidence is not always the main consideration when adopting new tools into practice. And yet, understanding how clinicians and health system decision-makers decide whether and how to adopt new tools is important to optimizing the use of new tools and practices that are supported by research evidence.
Secondary Polycythemia in a Sarcoma Patient: A Commentary about Cediranib
Authors: Awan A. , Alcindor Thierry
Published: March 2019

Cediranib, a potent inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor receptors 1, 2, and 3, platelet-derived growth factor subunit B, and the c-Kit receptor tyrosine kinase, has shown antitumour activity as an antiangiogenic agent in preclinical models. Initial clinical trials with cediranib in a variety of tumour types, including glioblastoma multiforme, non-small-cell lung cancer, renal cell cancer, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer, showed activity comparable to that for other vascular endothelial growth factor (vegf) inhibitors, but with significant toxicities, resulting in abandonment of the drug’s development in 2011. [...]
Improving Clinical Outcomes and Quality of Life with Massage Therapy in Youth and Young Adults with Cystic Fibrosis: a Pilot Study
Authors: Zink, MSN, RN, AHN-BC, LMT Kathleen (Kate) , Chini, MD Barbara , Cowens, LMT Joyce , Kremer, BSN, RN Lois , Lin, MS, BS Li
Published: March 2019

Background: Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disorder of exocrine glands characterized by abnormal production of thick mucus, primar-ily in bronchi of the lungs. Individuals experience recurrent respiratory infections, increased work of breathing, cough and musculoskeletal changes with pain. Previous research found that massage therapy (MT) decreased pain, muscle tightness, and anxiety in individuals with CF, but did not use valid/reliable measurements of quality of life (QOL).Purpose: To evaluate the effects of MT on QOL and clinical outcomes in individuals 8 to 21 years old with CF. Setting: A 622-bed nonprofit pediatric hospital in Ohio in the United States.Participants: Convenience sample of 24 patients with CF; 12 randomly assigned to treatment and control groups, respectively. Research Design and Intervention: Prospective two-group controlled pre/post pilot study using deep tissue myofascial trigger point massage over 10 to 12 weeks.Measurements: Pediatric Quality of Life Inven-tory (Peds QL 4.0); Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised (CFQ-R); numeric rating scales (NRS) for pain, muscle tightness, ease of breathing, relax-ation; pulmonary function (PFT); single breath count; thoracic excursion (TE).Results: All participants were Caucasian; mean age 15.7 (SD = 3.5) years; 16 (66.6%) female. No significant differences were found in terms of age, gender, baseline pain between MT and control groups. At the final visit, compared to the control group, the children in MT group showed statistically significantly reduced muscle tight-ness (p = .048) with a large effect size (?²=0.163) and marginally statistically significantly higher levels of relaxation (p = .052), less pain (p = .076), and improved upper TE (p = .078) and lower TE (p = .056) scores with large and moderate effect sizes (?² = 0.156, ?² = 0.095, ?² = 0.083, and ?² = 0.073). No statistically significant differences in children’s and caregivers’ QOL scores between the two groups were found.Conclusions: Massage therapy was found to significantly reduce muscle tightness, marginally significantly help pain, relaxation, and thoracic excursion in participants with CF
THE INDUCED OSCILLATIONS OF FLEXIBLE PRESTRESSED ELEMENTS OF STRUCTURES (SYMMETRICAL SYSTEM)
Authors: Kazakevič Michael I. , Volkova Victoria E.
Published: March 2019

The results of the investigations of dynamic behaviour of the flexible prestressed structure elements are presented in the paper. The given physical model can be applied to the flexible structures like sloping arches, shells, bending plates, elements of the large space antenna fields (LSAF). The dynamic behaviour of the investigated systems is described by the equations where ϵ is damping coefficient, α,β are coefficients determining the character of non-linear restoring force are parameters of outer effect.

The analysis of the “skeleton” curves disclosed the double qualities of system (1). Thus, “large” oscillations possess the peculiarities of the rigid system behaviour, and “small” oscillations possess the qualities of soft systems. The character of the oscillation amplitude changing with the increase or decrease of the excitation frequencies is followed in Fig 1. The establishment of the forced oscillation regimes from one branch to another is accompanied not only by the transition from “large” oscillations to “small”, or vice versa, but also by the development of the combination tones (2ω, 3ω 5ω, …, ω/2, ω/3).

The analytical solutions for “large” and “small” forced oscillations are given by harmonic balance method. The solution was found in the form φ = Acosωt for “large” oscillation, and for “small” oscillation, where . The for curves disclosed unstable branches of amplitude-frequency curves and critical value amplitude of “large” oscillations were obtained.

The methods and results of the computing experiment are presented in the paper. For working out the software necessary for the given task, the method of numerical integration (Runge-Kutta method of the fourth order), spectral analysis (Hertzel algorithm), computer graphics, etc were used. The results of the numerical integration are well-coordinated with the analytical solution for the “framework” curves and for the amplitude-frequency curves of forced oscillations.
INVESTIGATION OF THIN-WALLED COLUMN WITH VARIABLE I-SECTION STABILITY USING FINITE ELEMENT METHOD/PLONASIENĖS KINTAMOJO DVITĖJO SKERSPJŪVIO KOLONOS STABILUMO TYRIMAS BAIGTINIŲ ELEMENTŲ METODU
Authors: Samofalov Michail , Kačianauskas Rimantas
Published: March 2019

Thin-walled structures are widely used in building construction. Stability analysis [1–10] is of major importance to the design of thin-walled structures. This paper deals with the stability analysis of the thin-walled tapered column [11–18]. The aim is to investigate the influence of variation of the web height on the stability of column and combined action of axial force and plane bending moment. Critical state is defined by stability surface obtained by numerical experiments using the finite element method.

Mathematical model of the linearised stability problem is presented as algebraic eigenvalue problem (1), where eigenvalues express the critical loading factor (2). Analytical solutions are known for particular cases of separate loading (4), (5).

In this paper, the column with variable I-section is presented as assemblage of beam elements with constant section. Thin-walled beam element has 14 degrees of freedom (Fig 1), including linear displacements, rotations and warping displacements. Variation of cross-section of the column (Fig 2) is defined by relative height of web alb, were a and b are the height at the ends of column.

Critical state is described by stability surface obtained using numerical experiments.

Stability surface presents in the space of relative variation of height a/b, relative length and relative critical force and bending moment . Variation of section influences the critical bending moment only. The influence of finite element number on the with different relative height of web a/b is investigated numerically (Fig 3), and its variation of stability surface is presented in Fig 4.

The numerical results show that variation of critical moment to relative web height a/b is linear (Fig 5). The shapes of buckling modes are presented in Fig 6.

Variation of stability surface to relative length (6) is presented in Figs 7 and 8 and expressed by the simple expression (6) constructed on the basis of numerical experiments.

Finally, the stability model (1) is compared with nonlinear calculations performed using program ANSYS [19] and shell finite elements (Figs 9 and 10).
ANALYSIS OF METHODS FOR DETERMINING SOIL SHEAR STRENGTH DESIGN VALUES/GRUNTO STIPRUMO RODIKLIŲ SKAIČIUOJAMŲJŲ REIKŠMIŲ NUSTATYMO METODŲ ANALIZĖ
Authors: Amšiejus Jonas
Published: March 2019

Designing foundations by soil safety factors is used for obtaining soil strength design values. The methods [10, 11, 12, 13] used for their calculations and minimal values of investigated coefficients are provided in the standards. The design values of soil characteristics computed by different methods do not match. In reality they should ensure the unique reliability of soil shear strength design values.

In the present work, the soil shear strength values are computed by different methods. The experimental data are obtained for sands using direct shear strength apparatus. The comparative analysis of obtained results and methods for predicting the design values of soil strength characteristics is applied. When designing foundations, the relation between soil shear strength and normal stress is treated as linear (1, 2), but the dependency of the lower control limit on normal stress is nonlinear (5). Therefore, methods for getting experimental data of soil shear strength give different results. In corresponding standards, different additional conditions are considered for approximation of the investigated non-linear dependency to the linear one. The soil safety factors used for computing design values of tangent of internal friction angle and cohesion depend on these additional conditions. The approximation of non-linear dependency to the linear one does not allow ensuring the unique probability of soil shear strength design values. It is impossible to ensure the desired unique probability for different values of normal stress using traditional methods and constant soil safety factors. In order to obtain the same probability for soil shear strength values lower than the designed value, the probability-statistical methods should be applied.

In this article, the method for determining soil shear strength design values is presented (10, 11). This method ensures the same probability of the soil shear strength design values for any values of normal stress. The probability-statistical methods should be applied for design of foundations when soil strength design values depend on normal stress. In order to apply the investigated methods, the probability of foundation collapse or reliability index β, the mean values of soil strength and their variance should be known. Dimensions of the foundation are obtained from mean value sand variance of soil strength characteristics solving the system of equations (13). The solution of this system is a combination of arguments of foundation design conditions that are investigated as normal random variable. The investigated combination corresponds to the limit state.
FORMING AND AUTOMATED ENERGY ANALYSIS OF INTEGRATED MODELS OF THE PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND THEIR ENCLOSING STRUCTURES/VIEŠOSIOS PASKIRTIES PASTATŲ IR JŲ ATITVARŲ KONSTRUKCIJŲ INTEGRUOTŲJŲ MODELIŲ FORMAVIMAS IR AUTOMATIZUOTA ENERGETINĖ ANALIZĖ
Authors: Kazakevičiūtė Gerūta , Cinelis Gintaris , Kamaitis Zenonas
Published: March 2019

The problem of energy saving and managing in buildings has become recently more acute.

The article concerns the modelling and energy analysis problem of the spatial and structural solutions in newly designed buildings or those under renovation. The results of that task serve as a base for defining thermal indices of the project at different design stages.

The core of the developed automated system is formed of integrated graphical digital spatial models of the parts of buildings. These models include different kind of structured geometric and non-geometric (physical, economical) information about the object. The method proposed is based on the open architecture CAD system and operates in the AutoCAD environment.

The automated building modelling and energy analysis system consists of such main parts: the subsystem of general geometric modelling of the building or building complex, the subsystem of the geometric modelling of the main building parts and structural components, the subsystem of analysis of models ‘geometry, the subsystem of analysis of models’ energy, the subsystem of the project variants evaluation.

Modelling approaches for various design tasks, appropriate parts and the system possibilities are described in the article. According to definite design task intensions different methods were applied to the object.

During the approbation the principles put into the system, functional peculiarities, revealed the advantages and disadvantages of it were checked in practice. Two projects were chosen for the experiment (a shop and a school). These objects were different in architectural form, size, number of levels and other parameters. The buildings were modelled by various software tools but, in general, the approbation consisted of two stages:

The construction of geometric models and varying of geometric and structural parameters.

The energy analysis of integrated geometric models and comparison of the project variants or renovation measures.

Specific heat losses and annual consumption of heat energy are used as the main energy-related evaluation indices of the project.

An expert (an architect and/or an engineer) has a simple and intuitive tool as a set of operations for geometric transformations and calculation of project indices because the system is provided with modern user interface. It allows the user to work with the building projects operating in one graphical environment.

The proposed method could be used by interested experts as a tool for controlling thermal and energy indices at various design stases, searching for rational architectural forms and structural solutions. It takes into account the latest requirements of Lithuanian building regulations concerning heat energy saving.
STABILITY OF AXIALLY LOADED TAPERED COLUMNS/CENTRIŠKAI GNIUŽDOMŲ TRAPECINIŲ KOLONŲ STABILUMAS
Authors: Špalas Vaidotas , Kvedaras Audronis Kazimieras
Published: March 2019

In this paper, theoretical analysis of tapered column's bearing capacity is presented.

A slender axially loaded column loses stability, when it achieves critical load (1). Critical load for uniform column can be calculated using L. Euler's formula (3). But this formula is only for uniform members. When we have non-uniform member, column's moment of inertia about strong axis (Fig 3) chances according to law (4). A. N. Dinik [4] suggested a differential equation (6) for non-uniform axially loaded member. So the critical load of tapered column can be calculated as for uniform member with additional factor K using (7) formula. Factor Kdepends only on the moments of inertia ratio (5) of column ends. In this paper, critical load of tapered column was calculated using FE program COSMOS/M. A lot of simulation were carried out with a wide range of moments of inertia ratio. From these simulations factor K was calculated (Fig 4 and Table 1) for axially loaded pin-end column. By computer simulation it was determined that factor K for pin-end column can also be used for other types of column support. After determining critical load, column slenderness (10) can be calculated using column's smallest cross-section A 1. Tapered column must satisfy (12) condition.

A couple of examples (Table 2) with various moments of inertia ratio was solved. Three calculation methods were used: the author's suggested (Fig 5 curve 1): using [1, 2] method as for uniform member with the smallest column's cross-section geometrical characteristics (Fig 5 curve 2); and using [1, 2] method as for uniform member with average column's cross-section geometrical characteristics (Fig 5 curve 3). From Fig 5 we see that calculation of tapered column using methods for uniform members with average cross-section geometrical characteristics is not safe.
METHOD OF PROJECT MULTICRITERIA DECISION SYNTHESIS ON THE BASIS OF DECISION SUCCESS CRITERION/PROJEKTŲ DAUGIAKRITERINIŲ SPRENDIMŲ SINTEZĖS REMIANTIS PRIIMAMO SPRENDIMO SĖKMĖS KRITERIJUMI METODAS
Authors: Šarka Vaidotas , Zavadskas Edmundas Kazimieras , Ustinovičius Leonas
Published: March 2019

Method of project multicriteria decision synthesis with decision success criterion is used for realisation of construction projects which require a proper analysis of constituent parts in close relationship of components. Scheme of this method is presented in Fig 3.

Multicriteria decision project may be divided into several interrelated building processes and smaller projects. On every level of the whole project, the decision of closeness to ideal solution method is made and, on the basis of the obtained results, several alternatives are chosen.

On every separate level, a number of alternatives is selected by the method user. It depends on complexity of the project and on requirements of interested parties.

At the last decision stage, there is performed a synthesis using the chosen alternatives and relying on their interrelations.

During decision process on the intermediate stages, having eliminated irrational alternatives, effective and precise results are achieved.

The developed multicriteria decision synthesis method is one of the elements of the newly created group of multicriteria decision methods.

Using this method algorithm, software is prepared that entirely manages the whole decision process from database filling to calculation and result processing.
PULSE LENGTH DEPENDENCE ON THE DECAY OF THE INTEGRATED PULSE ENERGY/INTEGRUOTO IMPULSO ENERGIJOS SLOPIMO PRIKLAUSOMYBĖ NUO SKIRTINGŲ IMPULSO ILGIŲ
Authors: Stauskis Vytautas
Published: March 2019

The paper deals with the influence of the pulse length on the decay of the sound field energy. Six pulse lengths— 2000, 2500, 3000, 3500, 4000 and 4500 ms—were selected for investigations.

Investigations show that a 2500 ms pulse is too short to correctly assess the background noise time interval. Such pulse length is not suitable for experiments. 3000 ms is the right length, while 3500 ms may be too long, resulting in errors of measurement results. When the pulse length increases to 4000 ms, the decay starting from 2000 ms is different from the pulse length 2500 ms and 3000 ms. Background noise starts from 2300 ms for these pulses, while for a 4000 ms pulse it starts from 3200 to 3300 ms. The length of 4500 ms is completely not suitable for investigations because the background noise zone starts very early, ie at 1800 ms, while for a short 2500 ms pulse it starts much later, after 2300 ms.

While investigating energy decay, it is important to determine the maximum decay. At 63 Hz the sound field decay is almost uniform till— 18 dB. Later the decay character is different. The decay of the longest (4500 ms) and the shortest (2500 ms) pulse after— 18 dB is very steep and reaches—30 dB. However, the decay is influenced by the background noise. Thus the shortest and the longest pulses are not suitable for the lowest frequencies. The greatest energy decay is characteristic of the 3000 ms pulse. After 1700 ms energy decreases to—30 dB. Thus at this frequency one may measure the echoing time while approximating decay from 0 to—20 dB.

As the frequency increases, the results change. At 100 Hz the energy decays by— 35–37 dB at pulse lengths of 2500 ms and 4000 ms. The greatest decay of— 42 dB is produced by the longest pulse 4500 ms though this arouses certain doubts. Then the echoing time may be measured from 0 to— 30 dB.

At 125 octave frequency the smallest maximum decay of— 40 dB is observed with the shortest pulse (2500 ms), while the largest one— 50 dB is produced by the longest pulse (4500 ms). Thus standard echoing time may be measured for this frequency.

In the frequency range of 250–2000 Hz, the maximum energy decay is sufficient and amounts to— 50–60 dB. At 4000 Hz the final part of decay is strongly dependent on the pulse length although, as the decay is about— 55 dB in all cases, the standard echoing time may be measured correctly.

Pulse length is important only for the calculation of the low-frequency echoing time. At 63–100 Hz the best maximum decay is seen with the pulse 3000 ms long, while at 125 Hz and over the best pulse lengths are from 3000 to 4000 ms. When the hall contains audience and tapestries are on the walls, the energy decay is almost uniform at the pulse lengths of 2000 to 2800 ms. In this case a better decay is obtained with the longest pulse of 2800 ms.