bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation of Stress Corrosion Cracking in ICM Housing of Nuclear Power Plant
Authors: Kikuchi Masanori , Wada Yoshitaka , Suga Kazuhiro , Iwamatsu Fuminori , Shintaku Yuichi
Published: July 2013

It has been reported that stress corrosion cracking damaged in-core monitor housing (ICM Housing), which occurred in a weld heat-affected zone because of the existence of residual stress. So it is important to evaluate crack growth behavior with high accuracy. In this study, crack growth behavior in ICM Housing is estimated using S-version FEM (S-FEM), which allows generation of the core finite model and the detailed mesh representing the crack independently. At first, axial, slant and circumferential surface cracks are assumed at two locations where residual stress fields are different from each other. One is isotropic residual stress field, and the other is circumferential residual stress field. It is shown that crack growth behaviors are different under different residual stress fields. Next, the effect of the slit, which exists between the ICM Housing and the Pressure Vessel is evaluated. It is shown that the existences of the slit increases stress intensity factors of growing surface crack. Finally S-FEM results are compared with those of the Influence Function Method (IFM), which assumes that an elliptical crack shape exists in a plate. It is shown that IFM result is conservative comparing to that of S-FEM.
Risk Based Inspection (RBI) Technology in the Application of Syngas-Purification Units
Authors: Li Zhifeng , Wang Zhengxiang , Miao Junke , Wang Hui
Published: July 2013

In recent years, the coal chemical industry project which can replace the petrochemical products is an investment hot spot. The Syngas-purification Unit is a main part of the coal chemical industry. Its role is: purify the syngas obtained from the gasification reaction (absorb the hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide). Yet, there is no research and the summary about the corrosion, failure mechanism and risk level of this unit. In this paper, the syngas-purification equipment of Sinopec Qilu Corporation were quantified by RBI analysis, and investigated the corrosion of the syngas-purification equipment, and discussed the device typical failure mechanism, and proposed the recommendations of the corrosion and on-line monitoring, etc.

In last few years, the production of clean energy and alternative oil chemical products from the new coal chemical projects become of great interest[1]. Because the purification of the syngas is necessary, the syngas-purification unit is one of the main equipment of coal chemical industry. In the country, there is no systematic study or summary about the corrosion, failure mechanism and risk level of the device. The RBI analysis of the Syngas-purification unit is necessary, and has some guiding significance for the routine maintenance and periodic inspection of the device.

This paper introduces the corrosion and the typical failure mechanism of Syngas-purification unit followed by the risk assessment results. Then the paper puts forward the suggestion on line monitoring.
Materials Safety for Hydrogen Gas Embrittlement of Metals in High-Pressure Hydrogen Storage for Fuel Cell Vehicles
Authors: Zhang L. , Wen M. , Li Z. Y. , Zheng J. Y. , Liu X. X. , Zhao Y. Z. , Zhou C. L.
Published: July 2013

Materials safety and selection for the application of metals in high-pressure hydrogen storage of fuel cell vehicles were introduced based on the hydrogen gas embrittlement (HGE) examinations using the materials testing equipment. Testing steps are as follows; the 1st step is the tensile test in high-pressure hydrogen by slow strain rate technique to evaluate the effect of hydrogen and divide the materials into five categories based on stress-strain curves. The materials of type III, IV and V are picked up and their yield points and ultimate tensile strengths are collected. The 2nd step is the fracture mechanics test to obtain KICs and KIHs of type III, IV and V materials. The materials of type IV and V are considered to be applicable as usual. The 3rd step is the crack growth test to obtain the fatigue crack growth data. A special consideration of HGE is taken for the design of the equipment with limited operation period or cycles for the materials of type III. The issue of the Kth’s reproducibility remains unresolved, which calls another testing method and design concept. Candidate materials are then nominated following the procedure of materials selection.
Effects of Bending Moment and Torsion on the Burst Pressure of Locally Thinned Pipes
Authors: Hoang Phuong H. , Hasegawa Kunio , Bezensek Bostjan , Li Yinsheng
Published: July 2013

Finite element analysis (FEA) model for pressure limit load is validated using pressure burst test data of locally wall thinning flaws in 4″OD (107.1 mm) carbon steel pipes. It is shown that with a flow stress of 3*Sm, the FEA pressure limit load can reasonably predict the test burst pressure for non-planar flaws in carbon steel pipes. The models are then used to investigate the effects of a combined pressure, bending and torsion loading on piping non-planar flaws. For application, membrane stress structural factors (SFm) for design pressure are calculated for the locally thinning pipe flaws given in AMSE Section XI, Code Case N-597-2, Table -3622-1 for limited transverse extend and tpred≥ 0.3*tmin. The calculated SFm are consistently greater than 2.7, the minimum SFm for Service level A membrane stress given in C-2622 for axial flaws. An improved taloc/tmin curve based on SFm of 2.7 is proposed. It is also shown that a SFm of 2.7 on design pressure is maintained when the flaws are also subjected to a combined moment of bending and torsion, which is equivalent to the bending limit load given in C-5430 for planar circumferential flaws.
Experimental Investigation on Net-Section-Collapse Criterion for Circumferentially Cracked Cylinders Subjected to Torsional Moment
Authors: Miura Naoki , Hoshino Katsuaki , Li Yinsheng , Hasegawa Kunio
Published: July 2013

When a flaw is detected in piping during in-service inspection, the limit load criterion given in the codes such as JSME Rules on Fitness-for-Service for Nuclear Power Plants or ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section XI can be applied to evaluate the structural integrity of the piping. Actual piping is generally subjected to combined tensile, bending, and torsional loading, however, a methodology to evaluate limit moment for torsion is not established due to the inadequacy of experimental validation. In this study, fracture tests for circumferentially cracked cylinders subjected to torsional moment were conducted. Experimental maximum moments were compared with the limit moments, which were evaluated based on the concept of the net-section-collapse criterion for torsional moment. The maximum moments could be conservatively predicted by the net-section-collapse criterion. In addition, innovative tests subjected to torsional moments were conducted using a pair of Charpy V-notch specimens and a conventional test machine. The applicability of the net-section-collapse criterion for torsional moment was experimentally validated. The adequacy of the replacement of cracks with machined notches for ductile materials under torsional loading was also investigated through the comparison of the fracture behavior obtained from notched and precracked Charpy specimens. The developed method could be an alternative test method for torsional moment.
Failure Probability Analysis Based on FRI Model for Stress Corrosion Cracking Growth Introducing Residual Stress Distribution by Weld
Authors: Maeda Noriyoshi , Shoji Tetsuo
Published: July 2013

Failure probability of welds by stress corrosion cracking (SCC) in austenitic stainless steel piping is analyzed by a probabilistic fracture mechanics (PFM) approach based on an electro-chemical crack growth model (FRI model, where FRI stands for “Fracture and Reliability Research Institute” of Tohoku University in Japan). In this model, crack growth rate da/dt, where a is crack depth, is anticipated as the rate of chemical corrosion process defined by electro-chemical Coulomb’s law. The process is also related to the strain rate at the crack tip, taking the small scale yielding into consideration. Compared to the mechanical crack growth equation like the power law for SCC, FRI model can introduce many parameters affecting the generation and break of protective film on the crack surface such as electric current associated with corrosion, the frequency of protective film break and mechanical parameters such as the stress intensity factor K and its change with time dK/dt. Derived transcendental equation is transformed into non-dimensional form, and then solved numerically by iterative method. The extension of surface crack by SCC under residual stress field is simulated by developing the stress distribution in polynomial form following ASME section XI appendix A. This simulation scheme is introduced into PFM framework to derive the failure probability of austenitic stainless steel piping in nuclear power plants to be used in developing a risk-informed inservice inspection (RI-ISI) program.
Probabilistic Structural Integrity Analysis of Reactor Pressure Vessels During PTS Events
Authors: Onizawa Kunio , Masaki Koichi , Katsuyama Jinya
Published: July 2013

In order to apply a probabilistic fracture mechanics (PFM) analysis to the structural integrity assessment of a reactor pressure vessel (RPV), PFM analysis code has been developed at JAEA. Using the PFM analysis code, PASCAL version 3, the conditional probabilities of crack initiation and fracture for an RPV during pressurized thermal shock events have been analyzed. Sensitivity analyses on some input parameters were performed to clarify the effect on the conditional fracture probability. Comparison between the conditional probabilities and temperature margin (ΔTm) from current deterministic analysis method were made for some model plant conditions of domestic typical old-type RPVs. From the analyses, a good correlation between ΔTm and the conditional probability of crack initiation was obtained.
Bacterial Vibrations
Authors: Şeker Erkin
Published: July 2013

Nanoscale movements of bacteria uncover their resistance to antibiotics.
Ironing Out Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Voight Benjamin F.
Published: July 2013

Human genetics demonstrates that a higher concentration of serum iron protects against Parkinson’s disease.
Early death in those previously hospitalised for mental healthcare in Scotland: a nationwide cohort study, 1986–2010
Authors: Ajetunmobi Omotomilola , Taylor Mark , Stockton Diane , Wood Rachael
Published: July 2013

Objectives

To compare the mortality in those previously hospitalised for mental disorder in Scotland to that experienced by the general population.

Design

Population-based historical cohort study using routinely available psychiatric hospital discharge and death records.

Setting

All Scotland.

Participants

Individuals with a first hospital admission for mental disorder between 1986 and 2009 who had died by 31 December 2010 (34 243 individuals).

Outcomes

The main outcome measure was death from any cause, 1986–2010. Excess mortality was presented as standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) and years of life lost (YLL). Excess mortality was assessed overall and by age, sex, main psychiatric diagnosis, whether the psychiatric diagnosis was ‘complicated’ (ie, additional mental or physical ill-health diagnoses present), cause of death and time period of first admission.

Results

111 504 people were included in the study, and 34 243 had died by 31 December 2010. The average reduction in life expectancy for the whole cohort was 17 years, with eating disorders (39-year reduction) and ‘complicated’ personality disorders (27.5-year reduction) being worst affected. ‘Natural’ causes of death such as cardiovascular disease showed modestly elevated relative risk (SMR1.7), but accounted for 67% of all deaths and 54% of the total burden of YLL. Non-natural deaths such as suicide showed higher relative risk (SMR5.2) and tended to occur at a younger age, but were less common overall (11% of all deaths and 22% of all YLL). Having a ‘complicated’ diagnosis tended to elevate the risk of early death. No worsening of the overall excess mortality experienced by individuals with previous psychiatric admission over time was observed.

Conclusions

Early death for those hospitalised with mental disorder is common, and represents a significant inequality even in well-developed healthcare systems. Prevention of suicide and cardiovascular disease deserves particular attention in the mentally disordered.
Acupuncture for patients with functional dyspepsia: study protocol of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Zheng Hui , Xu Jing , Li Juan , Li Xiang , Zhao Ling , Chang Xiaorong , Liu Mi , Gong Biao , Li Xuezhi , Liang Fanrong
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Whether acupuncture is efficacious for patients with functional dyspepsia is still controversial. So we designed a randomised controlled trial to settle the problem.

Methods and analysis

We designed a multicentre, two-arm, sham-controlled clinical trial. 200 participants with functional dyspepsia will be randomly assigned to the true acupuncture (TA) group and sham acupuncture (SA) group in a 1:1 ratio. Participants in the TA group will receive acupuncture at points selected according to syndrome differentiation. Participants in the sham acupuncture group will receive penetrations at sham points. Participants in both groups will receive 20 sessions of electroacupuncture in 4 weeks, five times continuously with a 2 day rest in a week. The primary outcome is the proportion of patients reporting the absence of dyspeptic symptoms at 16 weeks after inclusion. The secondary outcome includes a Short-Form Leeds Dyspepsia Questionnaire, the Chinese version of the 36-Item Short Form Survey, the Chinese version of the Nepean dyspepsia index, etc.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol has been approved by the institutional review boards and ethics committees of the first affiliated hospital of Chengdu University of TCM, the first affiliated hospital of Hunan University of TCM and Chongqing Medical University, respectively (from April to August 2012). The results of this trial will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at international congresses.

Trials registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT01671670.
QUASIEQUILIBRIUM LATTICE BOLTZMANN MODELS WITH TUNABLE PRANDTL NUMBER FOR INCOMPRESSIBLE HYDRODYNAMICS
Authors: THANTANAPALLY CHAKRADHAR , SINGH SHIWANI , PATIL DHIRAJ V. , SUCCI SAURO , ANSUMALI SANTOSH
Published: July 2013

Recently, it was shown that energy conserving (EC) lattice Boltzmann (LB) model is more accurate than athermal LB model for high-resolution simulations of athermal flows. However, in the sub-grid (SG) domain, the behavior is found to be opposite. In this work, we show that via multi-relaxation model, it is possible to preserve the accuracy of the EC LB for both SG and direct numerical simulation (DNS) models. We show that by introducing a nonunit Prandtl number, under-resolved simulations can also be performed quite efficiently, a property which we attribute to the enhanced sound-relaxation.
SOME RESULTS ON COZERO-DIVISOR GRAPH OF A COMMUTATIVE RING
Authors: AKBARI S. , ALIZADEH F. , KHOJASTEH S.
Published: July 2013

Let R be a commutative ring with unity. The cozero-divisor graph of R denoted by Γ′(R) is a graph with the vertex set W*(R), where W*(R) is the set of all non-zero and non-unit elements of R, and two distinct vertices a and b are adjacent if and only if a ∉ Rb and b ∉ Ra. In this paper, we show that if Γ′(R) is a forest, then Γ′(R) is a union of isolated vertices or a star. Also, we prove that if Γ′(R) is a forest with at least one edge, then R ≅ ℤ2 ⊕ F, where F is a field. Among other results, it is shown that for every commutative ring R, diam (Γ′(R[x])) = 2. We prove that if R is a field, then Γ′(R[[x]]) is totally disconnected. Also, we prove that if (R, m) is a commutative local ring and m ≠ 0, then diam (Γ′(R[[x]])) ≤ 3. Finally, it is proved that if R is a commutative non-local ring, then diam (Γ′(R[[x]])) ≤ 3.
PARA-GALILEAN VERSUS GALILEAN NONCOMMUTATIVE PHASE SPACES
Authors: NGENDAKUMANA ANCILLE , NZOTUNGICIMPAYE JOACHIM , TODJIHOUNDÉ LEONARD
Published: July 2013

This paper deals with the construction of noncommutative phase spaces as coadjoint orbits of noncentral extensions of Galilei and Para-Galilei groups in two-dimensional space. The noncommutativity is due to the presence of a dual magnetic field B* in the Galilei case and of a magnetic field B in the Para-Galilei case.
BALANCING THE DUAL ROLE OF DISRUPTOR AND DISRUPTEE
Authors: LACOURBE PAUL
Published: July 2013

In the framework of disruptive technology, a new product plays the role of a disruptor when it improves quality and captures exisiting consumers from the incumbent. While the profit of the new product typically increases as it moves into the more lucrative segment of the market, such an upstream movement leaves more consumers at the low end unserved, who may become a potential market for even newer products that will disrupt the new product. In this paper, we use modelling approach to study how the firm may deal with this dilemma. In our model setting, we are able to show that the disruptor may balance its profit and risk of being disrupted by appropriately slowing down its migration into the high end. If migration to the high end is strategically important and should not be slowed down, the firm can still defend against disruption by offering a low end product, which is a better option than pure price cutting. Finally, we find that the accessory dimension makes it more likely to have disruption, which explains why new disruptors tend to be superior on accessory dimensions. The firm has more incentive to invest in cost reduction rather than to improve an accessory dimension, because cost reduction helps in capturing more wealthy customers, while improving an accessory dimension helps in capturing more poor consumers. So the disruptors are more likely to focus on disrupting because it is more profitable, rather than investing to improve the accessory dimension to defend against newer disruptors. The existing literature on disruptive technology has so far focused on the interaction between the product that disrupts and the product that is disrupted. Our analysis sheds light on a different angle of the phenomenon, that is, how a product that disrupts and that is disrupted simultaneously.
An Attempted Substitute Study of Total Skin Electron Therapy Technique by Using Helical Photon Tomotherapy with Helical Irradiation of the Total Skin Treatment: A Phantom Result
Authors: Lin Chi-Ta , Shiau An-Cheng , Tien Hui-Ju , Yeh Hsin-Pei , Shueng Pei-Wei , Hsieh Chen-Hsi
Published: July 2013

An anthropomorphic phantom was used to investigate a treatment technique and analyze the dose distributions for helical irradiation of the total skin (HITS) by helical tomotherapy (HT). Hypothetical bolus of thicknesses of 0, 10, and 15 mm was added around the phantom body to account for the dose homogeneity and setup uncertainty. A central core structure was assigned as a “complete block” to force the dose tangential delivery. HITS technique with prescribed dose (Dp) of 36 Gy in 36 fractions was generated. The radiochromic EBT2 films were used for the dose measurements. The target region with 95.0% of theDpreceived by more than 95% of the PTV was obtained. The calculated mean doses for the organs at risk (OARs) were 4.69, 3.10, 3.20, and 2.94 Gy for the lung, heart, liver, and kidneys, respectively. The measurement doses on a phantom surface for a plan with 10 mm hypothetical bolus and bolus thicknesses of 0, 1, 2, and 3 mm are 89.5%, 111.4%, 116.9%, and 117.7% ofDp, respectively. HITS can provide an accurate and uniform treatment dose in the skin with limited doses to OARs and is safe to replace a total skin electron beam regimen.
Analytical Solution for Free Vibrations of a Moderately Thick Rectangular Plate
Authors: Senjanović Ivo , Tomić Marko , Vladimir Nikola , Cho Dae Seung
Published: July 2013

In the present thick plate vibration theory, governing equations of force-displacement relations and equilibrium of forces are reduced to the system of three partial differential equations of motion with total deflection, which consists of bending and shear contribution, and angles of rotation as the basic unknown functions. The system is starting one for the application of any analytical or numerical method. Most of the analytical methods deal with those three equations, some of them with two (total and bending deflection), and recently a solution based on one equation related to total deflection has been proposed. In this paper, a system of three equations is reduced to one equation with bending deflection acting as a potential function. Method of separation of variables is applied and analytical solution of differential equation is obtained in closed form. Any combination of boundary conditions can be considered. However, the exact solution of boundary value problem is achieved for a plate with two opposite simply supported edges, while for mixed boundary conditions, an approximate solution is derived. Numerical results of illustrative examples are compared with those known in the literature, and very good agreement is achieved.
Performance Evaluation of Crumb Rubber Modified Stone Mastic Asphalt Pavement in Malaysia
Authors: Mashaan Nuha Salim , Ali Asim H. , Koting Suhana , Karim Mohamed Rehan
Published: July 2013

To prevent pavement distresses there are various solutions such as adopting new mix designs or utilisation of asphalt additives. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the effect of adding crumb tyre rubber as an additive to SMA mixture performance properties. This study investigated the essential aspects of modified asphalt mixtures in order to better understand the influence of CRM modifiers on volumetric, mechanical, and stiffness properties of SMA mixture. In this study, virgin bitumen 80/100 penetration grade was used, modified with crumb rubber (CRM) at five different modification levels, namely, 6%, 12%, 16%, and 20%, respectively, by weight of the bitumen. The appropriate amount of the added CRM was found to be 12% by weight of bitumen. This percentage results in the maximum level of stability. The resilient modulus (Mr) of modified SMA samples including different percentages of CRM was obviously higher in comparison with that of unmodified samples.
Determinants of Brachial-Ankle Pulse Wave Velocity in Chinese Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Li Ping , Han Cheng-xun , Ma Cui-li , Guo Jia-long , Liu Bo , Du Juan , Bi Li-qi
Published: July 2013

Objective. To investigate the relationship between Brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), and its associated risk factors in Chinese patients with RA.Methods. 138 Chinese RA patients and 150 healthy subjects were included. baPWV of all the participants was measured. RA related factors were determined, as well as traditional cardiovascular risk factors.Results. baPWV was significant higher in RA group (1705.44 ± 429.20 cm/s) compared to the healthy control group (1386.23 ± 411.09 cm/s) (P<0.001). Compared with low baPWV group, high baPWV group patients were significantly older (P= 0.008) and taller (P= 0.033). Serum cholesterol (P= 0.035), triglycerides (P= 0.004), and LDL level (P= 0.006) were significantly higher in high baPWV group patients compared with low baPWV group patients. The baPWV of RA patients was positively correlated with age (r= 0.439,P<0.001), and serum cholesterol level (r= 0.231,P= 0.035), serum triglycerides level (r= 0.293,P<0.001), serum LDL level (r= 0.323,P= 0.003). Meanwhile, baPWV negatively correlated with the height of RA patients (r= −0.253,P= 0.043). Multivariate regression analysis showed that baPWV of RA group was independently associated with age and serum triglycerides level.Conclusions. The old age and high level of serum triglycerides may be the major determinants of arterial stiffness in Chinese RA patients.
Quantitative Determination of Flavonoids and Chlorogenic Acid in the Leaves ofArbutus unedoL. Using Thin Layer Chromatography
Authors: Maleš Željan , Šarić Darija , Bojić Mirza
Published: July 2013

The plant speciesArbutus unedoshows numerous beneficial pharmacological effects (antiseptic, antidiabetic, antidiarrheal, astringent, depurative, antioxidant, antihypertensive, antithrombotic, and anti-inflammatory). For the medicinal use, standardization of extracts is a necessity, as different compounds are responsible for different biological activities. In this paper, we analyze monthly changes in the content of quercitrin, isoquercitrin, hyperoside, and chlorogenic acid. Methanolic extracts of the leaves are analyzed by HPTLC for the identification and quantification of individual polyphenol, and DPPH test is used to determine antioxidant activity. Based on the results obtained, the leaves should be collected in January to obtain the highest concentrations of hyperoside and quercitrin (0.35 mg/g and 1.94 mg/g, resp.), in June, July, and October for chlorogenic acid (1.45–1.46 mg/g), and for the fraction of quercitrin and isoquercitrin in November (1.98 mg/g and 0.33 mg/g, resp.). Optimal months for the collection of leaves with the maximum recovery of individual polyphenol suggested in this work could direct the pharmacological usage of the polyvalent herbal drugs.
On IVF Approximating Spaces
Authors: Zheng Dingwei , Cui Rongchen , Li Zhaowen
Published: July 2013

We introduce the concept of IVF approximating spaces and obtain decision conditions that every IVF topological space is an IVF approximating space.
A Multiuser Detector Based on Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm for DS‐UWB Systems
Authors: Yin Zhendong , Liu Xiaohui , Wu Zhilu
Published: July 2013

Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) algorithm is an optimization algorithm based on the intelligent behavior of honey bee swarm. The ABC algorithm was developed to solve optimizing numerical problems and revealed premising results in processing time and solution quality. In ABC, a colony of artificial bees search for rich artificial food sources; the optimizing numerical problems are converted to the problem of finding the best parameter which minimizes an objective function. Then, the artificial bees randomly discover a population of initial solutions and then iteratively improve them by employing the behavior: moving towards better solutions by means of a neighbor search mechanism while abandoning poor solutions. In this paper, an efficient multiuser detector based on a suboptimal code mapping multiuser detector and artificial bee colony algorithm (SCM‐ABC‐MUD) is proposed and implemented in direct‐sequence ultra‐wideband (DS‐UWB) systems under the additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) channel. The simulation results demonstrate that the BER and the near‐far effect resistance performances of this proposed algorithm are quite close to those of the optimum multiuser detector (OMD) while its computational complexity is much lower than that of OMD. Furthermore, the BER performance of SCM‐ABC‐MUD is not sensitive to the number of active users and can obtain a large system capacity.
A Twenty-First Century Cancer Epidemic Caused by Obesity: The Involvement of Insulin, Diabetes, and Insulin-Like Growth Factors
Authors: Westley Rosalyne L. , May Felicity E. B.
Published: July 2013

Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the developed world. The progression from obesity to diabetes mellitus type 2, via metabolic syndrome, is recognised, and the significant associated increase in the risk of major human cancers acknowledged. We review the molecular basis of the involvement of morbidly high concentrations of endogenous or therapeutic insulin and of insulin-like growth factors in the progression from obesity to diabetes and finally to cancer. Epidemiological and biochemical studies establish the role of insulin and hyperinsulinaemia in cancer risk and progression. Insulin-like growth factors, IGF-1 and IGF-2, secreted by visceral or mammary adipose tissue have significant paracrine and endocrine effects. These effects can be exacerbated by increased steroid hormone production. Structural studies elucidate how each of the three ligands, insulin, IGF-1, and IGF-2, interacts differently with isoforms A and B of the insulin receptor and with type I IGF receptor and explain how these protagonists contribute to diabetes-associated cancer. The above should inform appropriate treatment of cancers that arise in obese individuals and in those with diabetes mellitus type 2. Novel drugs that target the insulin and insulin-like growth factor signal transduction pathways are in clinical trial and should be effective if appropriate biomarker-informed patient stratification is implemented.
Simultaneous Bilateral Quadriceps Tendon Rupture following Long-Term Low-Dose Nasal Corticosteroid Application
Authors: Omar Mohamed , Haas Philipp , Ettinger Max , Krettek Christian , Petri Maximilian
Published: July 2013

Simultaneous bilateral quadriceps tendon rupture is a very rare injury, which was previously only described in slightly more than 100 cases in the English literature. Occurrence after minor trauma is predominantly associated with certain medical conditions including chronic diseases and long-term use of certain drugs. We report the case of a 61-year-old healthy patient who sustained a simultaneous bilateral quadriceps tendon rupture following minor trauma. Medical history was completely clear except of a long-term nasal corticosteroid medication due to allergic rhinitis.
Effect of Gambisan on the Inhibition of Adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Kang Jung Won , Nam Dongwoo , Kim Kun Hyung , Huh Jeong-Eun , Lee Jae-Dong
Published: July 2013

This study was conducted to explore the antiadipogenic effect and possible mechanism of Gambisan on 3T3-L1 cells. For quality control, Gambisan was standardized by HPLC and the standard compounds ephedrine, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, and caffeine were screened. Cultured 3T3-L1 cells that had been induced to differentiate were treated with various concentrations of Gambisan or its major component extracts (Ephedra intermediaSchrenk,Atractylodes lanceaDC., andThea sinensisL.) for 72 hours for MTT assay to determine cell viability or 10 days for LDH assay, triglyceride assay, DNA content measurement, Oil red O staining, RT-PCR, and western blot. Gambisan significantly inhibited adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells by reducing triglyceride contents and lipid accumulation in a dose-dependent manner without obvious cytotoxicity. Viability and DNA content in 3T3-L1 cells treated with Gambisan were significantly higher than cells treated with the major component extracts at every concentration. The anti-adipogenic effects of Gambisan appeared to be mediated by a significant downregulation of the expression of lipoprotein lipase mRNA and PPARγ, C/EBPα, and SREBP-1 protein apart from the expression of hormone-sensitive lipase. Gambisan could act as a possible therapeutic agent for obesity. However, further studies includingin vivoassays and clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficacy, safety and mechanisms of the antiobesity effects of Gambisan.
Variable Speed Drive Characterization: Review of Measurement Techniques and Future Trends
Authors: Fiorucci Edoardo , Bucci Giovanni , Ciancetta Fabrizio , Gallo Daniele , Landi Carmine , Luiso Mario
Published: July 2013

The significant advances in power electronics have permitted the implementation of sophisticated methods for control of electric motors. Each innovative electrical apparatus for industrial and automotive application must be correctly and exhaustively tested, both during the developing process and finally for the compliance test. The development of a new electrical system should be associated with a parallel design of an ad hoc measurement system, whose performance should be defined according to the features of the system under test. In recent years, the increasing interest for sensorless electric motor drives involved the development and implementation of a wide set of control techniques. This paper reviews the state and the trends of measurement techniques and instruments applied for the experimental characterization of variable speed drives.
In vitro Clearance and Hemocompatibility Assessment of Ultrathin Nanoporous Silicon Membranes for Hemodialysis Applications Using Human Whole Blood
Authors: Ahmadi Morteza , Gorbet Maud , Yeow John T.W.
Published: July 2013

Background/Aims: Recent advances in nanotechnology have made it possible to mass-produce ultrathin silicon membranes with pore sizes in the range of nanometers. In this study, we investigate the possibility of employing ultrathin nanoporous silicon membranes with pore diameters of 5 and 20 nm for dialysis of human whole blood by performing in vitro clearance and hemocompatibility assessments. Methods: A mini blood dialyzer is fabricated by mounting nanoporous silicon membranes on a Teflon structure. Clearance is calculated based on the concentration of sodium, chloride, ionized calcium, total CO2, glucose, creatinine and hematocrit measured before and after dialysis. Blood activation is assessed by flow cytometry. Results: Blood contact with the nanoporous membranes induces considerable leukocyte activation. Coating of the membranes with polyethylene glycol significantly improves hemocompatibility without blocking the nanopores. Conclusion: Silicon nanoporous membranes are potential candidates for fabrication of miniaturized blood dialyzers. Their mechanical strength and hemocompatibility can be further improved.
Education Level Is Associated with Mortality in Male Patients Undergoing Maintenance Hemodialysis
Authors: Huang Wen-Hung , Lin Ja-Liang , Lin-Tan Dan-Tzu , Chen Kuan-Hsing , Hsu Ching-Wei , Yen Tzung-Hai
Published: July 2013

Background: Studies of the correlation between education levels and mortality in hemodialysis (HD) patients are rare. The aim of this multi-center study was to investigate the relationship between education levels and 3-year mortality rates in HD patients. Methods: A total of 935 HD patients from 3 HD centers participated in this 3-year prospective observational study. Education levels were categorized as either less than senior high school and above or equal to senior high school. The causes of death and mortality rates were also analyzed for each subgroup. Results: At the end of the 3-year follow-up period, 164 patients had died. In the male group, forward stepwise Cox regression analysis revealed that age, HD duration, hypertension, creatinine level, serum albumin level ≥3.6 g/dl, anuria, Kt/Vurea, and high education level were significant predictive factors for 3-year mortality rates. Conclusion: This prospective observational study demonstrated that education level was associated with mortality in men undergoing HD.
Interstitial Deletions at 6q14.1q15 Associated with Developmental Delay and a Marfanoid Phenotype
Authors: Lowry R.B. , Chernos J.E. , Connelly M.S. , Wyse J.P.H.
Published: July 2013

There are a number of reports of interstitial deletions of the long arm of chromosome 6 that have developmental delay and obesity suggesting that this is a distinct phenotype almost like Prader-Willi syndrome. Here we report a patient with a similar deletion but a strikingly different phenotype, one more in keeping with Marfan syndrome, although he does not fulfil the criteria for that syndrome. Array comparative genomic hybridization was performed to investigate a patient with a striking phenotype. This revealed an interstitial deletion of 6q14.1q15. Parental FISH studies were normal, indicating that this is a de novo deletion. Our patient has a completely different phenotype compared to other patients reported to have similar deletions. The common feature is developmental delay, but the body features are quite different in that our patient is tall, strikingly thin with pectus excavatum, scoliosis, skin striae, arachnodactyly, pes planus, cataracts, and a high-arched palate. This contrasts with other patients who have a similar deletion but have short stature and obesity. 6q14.1q15 interstitial deletions can have a very variable phenotype and do not necessarily conform to a clinical recognizable microdeletion syndrome caused by haploinsufficiency of dosage-sensitive genes in that region as proposed by others.
Heterogenic Endothelial Responses to Inflammation: Role for Differential
N
‐Glycosylation and Vascular Bed of Origin
Authors: Scott David W. , Vallejo Matthew O. , Patel Rakesh P.
Published: July 2013

Background

Endothelial cell responses during inflammation are heterogeneous and key for selectivity in how leukocytes hone in on specific sites and why vascular diseases are highly bed specific. However, mechanisms for this specificity remain unclear.

Methods and Results

Here, we exposed human endothelial cells isolated from 5 systemic arterial beds from 1 donor (to overcome donor‐to‐donor genetic/epigenetic differences), the umbilical vein, and pulmonary microvasculature to
TNF
‐α,
LPS
, and
IL
‐1β and assessed acute (
ERK
1/2 and p65) and chronic (
ICAM
‐1,
VCAM
‐1 total and surface expression) signaling responses and assessed changes in surface
N
‐glycans and monocyte adhesion. Significant diversity in responses was evident by disparate changes in
ERK
1/2 and p65
NF
‐κB phosphorylation, which varied up to 5‐fold between different cells and in temporal and magnitude differences in
ICAM
‐1 and
VCAM
‐1 expression (maximal
VCAM
‐1 induction typically being observed by 4 hours, whereas
ICAM
‐1 expression was increased further at 24 hours relative to 4 hours).
N
‐glycan profiles both basally and with stimulation were also bed specific, with hypoglycosylated
N
‐glycans correlating with increased
THP
‐1 monocyte adhesion. Differences in surface
N
‐glycan expression tracked with dynamic up‐ or downregulation of α‐mannosidase activity during inflammation.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate a critical role for the vascular bed of origin in controlling endothelial responses and function to inflammatory stimuli and suggest that bed‐specific expression of
N
‐linked sugars may provide a signature for select leukocyte recruitment.
Noninvasive Cardiac Event Monitoring to Detect Atrial Fibrillation After Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Higgins Peter , MacFarlane Peter W. , Dawson Jesse , McInnes Gordon T. , Langhorne Peter , Lees Kennedy R.
Published: July 2013

Background and Purpose—

Atrial fibrillation (AF) elevates risk of recurrent stroke but is incompletely identified by standard investigation after stroke, though detection rates correlate with monitoring duration. We hypothesized that 7 days of noninvasive cardiac-event monitoring early after stroke would accelerate detection of AF and thus uptake of effective therapy.

Methods—

We performed a pragmatic randomized trial with objective outcome assessment among patients presenting in sinus rhythm with no AF history, within 7 days of ischemic stroke symptom onset. Patients were randomized to standard practice investigations (SP) to detect AF, or SP plus additional monitoring (SP-AM). AM comprised 7 days of noninvasive cardiac-event monitoring reported by an accredited cardiac electrocardiology laboratory. Primary outcome was detection of AF at 14 days.

Results—

One-hundred patients were enrolled from 2 centers. Within 14 days of stroke, sustained paroxysms of AF were detected in 18% of patients undergoing SP-AM versus 2% undergoing SP (
P
<0.05). Paroxysms of any-duration were detected in 44% of patients undergoing SP-AM versus 4% undergoing SP (
P
<0.001). These differences persisted at 90 days. Anticoagulant therapy was commenced within 14 days in 16% of SP-AM patients versus none randomized to SP (
P
<0.01). This difference persisted to 90 days (22% versus 6%;
P
<0.05).

Conclusions—

Routine noninvasive cardiac-event monitoring after acute stroke enhances detection of paroxysmal AF and early anticoagulation. Extended monitoring should be offered to all eligible patients soon after acute stroke. Guidelines on investigation for AF in stroke patients could be strengthened.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.controlled-trials.com/isrctn/
. Unique identifier: ISRCTN97412358.
The oldest Palaeoaphididae (Insecta: Hemiptera: Aphidomorpha) from the Late Jurassic/Early Cretaceous locality of Khotont (Mongolia)
Authors: Żyła Dagmara , Wegięrek Piotr
Published: July 2013

A new genus and species of the aphid family Palaeoaphididae, Primpalaeoaphis khotontensis gen. et sp.n. is described from the Late Jurassic/Early Cretaceous locality of Khotont (Mongolia). This is the oldest representative of Palaeoaphididae.
A new Chifengiinae species (Orthoptera: Prophalangopsidae) from the Lower Cretaceous Yixian Formation (Liaoning, P.R. China)
Authors: Fang Yan , Zhang Haichun , Wang Bo , Zheng Daran
Published: July 2013

A new species of the family Prophalangopsidae, Ashanga borealis sp.n., is described from the Lower Cretaceous Yixian Fomation (Liaoning Province, P.R. China). The male forewing of the new species is similar to that of the Middle/Upper Jurassic species Ashanga clara Zherikhin 1985, but differs from it in possessing a forewing arched anterior margin, RS branching more basally, and MP + CuA1 with more branches. The fossil record of Chifengiinae is reviewed.
A new cockroach (Blattaria: Caloblattinidae) from the Upper Triassic Xujiahe Formation of Sichuan Province, southwestern China
Authors: Fang Yan , Zhang Haichun , Wang Bo , Zheng Daran
Published: July 2013

A new genus and species of the cockroach family Caloblattinidae, Dazhublattella lini gen. et sp.n., is described from the Upper Triassic Xujiahe Formation of Sichuan Province, in southwestern China. The new taxon is similar to the Triassic Caloblattina mathildae (Geinitz, 1883) (Vršanský & Ansorge 2007) in the venation and pattern, but differs in the less elongated forewing with arched anterior margin. An elemental analysis of the wing is undertaken using Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis.
A new genus and species of Breyeriidae and wings of immature stages from the Upper Carboniferous, Nord-Pas-de-Calais, France (Insecta: Palaeodictyoptera)
Authors: Prokop Jakub , Tippeltová Zuzana , Roques Patrick , Nel André
Published: July 2013

A new palaeodictyopterid, Aviobreyeria gracilis gen.n., sp.n., is described from an outcrop of Upper Carboniferous (Westphalian C/D) deposits at Avion in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais department (France). This new taxon is placed in the family Breyeriidae based on a comparison of the pattern of venation in its forewing venation with that of other breyeriids and possibly related genera within the Breyerioidea. In addition, wings of different immature instars of palaeodictyopterids from the same strata with a similar pattern of venation but differing in having an enlarged RP and a broader anal area (supposed hind wings) were also tentatively attributed to Breyeriidae gen. et sp. indet.. These wings have a roughly identifiable venation and exhibit the gradual development of wings through different ontogenetic stages and their position on the thorax, which is sparsely documented for Paleozoic insects. Discovery of immature and adult stages of palaeodictyopterids in the same layers also indicates they lived in similar habitats.
A re-assessment of Konarus Bamber, 2006 and sympatric leptocheliids from Australasia, and of Pseudoleptochelia Lang, 1973 (Crustacea: Peracarida: Tanaidacea)
Authors: BAMBER ROGER N
Published: July 2013

Following recent revelations regarding males with subchelate chelipeds in the tanaidacean genus Parakonarus, a number of Australian leptocheliid taxa are re-assessed, and their males and females variously re-allocated. To assist the interpretation of taxa with subchelate males, Heterotanais anomalus Sars is redescribed based on material from the Balearic Islands. The males of Konarus are now known to have a subchelate cheliped. The male (only) of Pseudoleptochelia bulbus from Melanesia is re-assigned to Konarus cheiris, while Pseudoleptochelia bulbus sensu stricto is reassigned to Leptochelia together with its “minuta”-type male, as Leptochelia bulbus. Pseudoleptochelia straddi is re-assigned to Konarus, together with its females from Queensland, Australia, which were previously assigned to Konarus cheiris. Pseudoleptochelia fairgo is confirmed as a member of Parakonarus, but material from Queensland is re-described as a new species. Other species previously assigned to Pseudoleptochelia are re-assessed: P. inermis, P. mercantilis and P. mortenseni sensu stricto are transferred to Leptochelia. The “small females” and males of P. mortenseni are transferred to Parakonarus as a new species. P. antarctica is provisionally reverted to Heterotanais, P. mergellinae to Leptochelia, and P. filum is tentatively transferred to Pseudonototanais. Pseudoleptochelia magna is synonymized with P. anomala. Pseudoleptochelia provincialis is tentatively transferred to Parakonarus. Pseudoleptochelia occiporta (females only) is reassigned to Leptochelia; the male of P. occiporta is considered to represent a species of Parakonarus. Pseudoleptochelia juliae is reassigned to Parakonarus. Konarus, Makraleptochelia, Bassoleptochelia, Parakonarus and Pseudoleptochelia are placed in the new subfamily Konariinae. Generic relationships in this subfamily were confirmed by Principle Components Analysis. Catenarius is placed in the new subfamily Catenariinae.
Holotranscobalamin is not influenced by decreased renal function in elderly men: the MrOS Sweden study
Authors: Lewerin Catharina , Nilsson-Ehle Herman , Jacobsson Stefan , Karlsson Magnus K , Ohlsson Claes , Mellström Dan
Published: July 2013

Background

Subclinical cobalamin deficiency is common in the elderly, but the sensitivity and specificity of serum total cobalamin for this diagnosis is poor. Serum holotranscobalamin (holoTC), a measure of biologically available cobalamin, is considered a better marker for early cobalamin depletion than total cobalamin. However, in elderly populations, health-related reference intervals for holoTC and correlations to renal function are not entirely clear.

Methods

HoloTC was determined with an automated microparticle enzyme immunoassay (AxSYM®) in 790 elderly non-vitamin-supplemented Swedish men, median age 75.3 years. Renal function was assessed with creatinine, cystatin C and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR calculated from creatinine).

Results

Median holoTC was 51.8 pmol/L, the health-related reference interval 19.6–132.3 pmol/L. There was no significant difference in mean holoTC in probands with normal compared to high creatinine ( P = 0.80) and cystatin C ( P = 0.82). No significant differences between the quartiles of creatinine or cystatin C in mean of log holoTC were seen. HoloTC correlated strongly with total cobalamin ( r = 0.69, P < 0.001), weaker with eGFRcreatinine ( r = −0.09, P < 0.05) and creatinine ( r = 0.09, P < 0.05), the latter correlation was only seen in subjects with creatinine <100  µmol/L. HoloTC correlated negatively with plasma total homocysteine ( r = −0.24, P < 0.001), but not with cystatin C and age.

Conclusions

Serum holoTC in healthy elderly men shows the same distribution as earlier described for a younger reference population. In this group of elderly subjects, holoTC did not correlate to reduced renal function. Thus, holoTC appears to be a promising tool for evaluating cobalamin status also in elderly populations.