bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Type of Amine Salt and Surfactant on the Water Sorption and Flexural Properties of Modified Zeolite/Polyester Composites
Authors: Leuterio Giselle Lou D. , Pajarito Bryan B. , Mejia Kliff Richmond P. , Mendoza Louis Martin G. , Oquendo Elaine Joyce S.
Published: March 2017

Natural zeolite, an abundant clay with porous solids based on silica, is modified with amine salt and surfactant, and incorporated as filler for polyester to produce modified zeolite/polyester (MZP) composite. A general factorial design of experiment is implemented with two factors (type of amine salt and type of surfactant) varied at three levels each. The amine salts are tetra- (TDA), hexa-, and octadecyl dimethylamine chloride while surfactants are stearic acid (SA), glycerol monostearate, and cocamide diethanolamine (CDEA). Water sorption and flexural testing are performed on MZPs. Results show that natural zeolite treated with SA exhibits improved hydrophobicity of MZPs, resulting to lower water uptake as compared to untreated natural zeolite. However, water sorption in MZPs is higher than in pure polyester due to difference in hydrophobicity. Flexural modulus of MZP is highest using TDA + CDEA due to enhanced filler-to-matrix compatibility. Meanwhile, break stress is highest for untreated zeolite filler due to the high stress resistance of rigid natural zeolite. Analysis of variance shows water sorption to be significantly affected by the type of surfactant, while break stress is significantly higher using amine salt with shorter chain length.
Nanostructures and Properties of Vanadium Oxide Thin Film Prepared by Spray Pyrolysis Method
Authors: Şenarslan Elvan , Güzeldir Betül , Sağlam Mustafa
Published: March 2017

In this research, we reported structural, optical and morphological properties of va
nadium oxide thin films directly grown on the glass substrates by fully automated spray pyrolysis equipment. The substrate temperature was set at 450 °C and the nozzle to substrate distance was optimized to be 20 cm. The precursor solution was prepared as 0.05 M by mixing 0.393 gr of vanadium trichloride (VCl3) in 50 mL of deionized water. The deposition parameters were 5 mL in 1 minute solution flow rate, 90° position of spray nozzle towards the substrate. Atmospheric air was used as carrier gas with 2.5 mbar pressure. Nanostructures and optical properties of as-grown films examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and UV-visible spectrophotometer techniques. After thin films annealed at 500 °C, SEM, XRD and absorption measurements were taken again. The obtained results were compared.
Effect of Post-Annealing Treatment on the Structure and Luminescence Properties of AIN:Tb3+ Thin Films Prepared by Radio Frequency Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Tucto Salinas Karem Yoli , Flores Escalante Loreleyn F. , Guerra Jorge A. , Grieseler Rolf , Kups Thomas , Pezoldt Joerg , Osvet Andres , Batentschuk Miroslaw , Weingärtner Roland
Published: March 2017

Terbium-doped aluminum nitride thin films have been deposited by radio frequency magnetron sputtering. The influence of annealing treatments on structural, morphological and luminescence properties of the films is examined with the aim to optimize post-deposition annealing conditions. Temperatures starting from 500 up to 1000°C using two annealing techniques were investigated: rapid thermal processing and quartz tube furnace. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed the formation of aluminum oxide and aluminum oxynitride phases at temperatures higher than 750°C. The oxygen content in the surface layer was measured with energy dispersive X-ray. The terbium emission was obtained after excitation either by photons or electrons. The films treated with rapid thermal processing at 750°C resulted in the highest emission.
Growth Mechanism of Copper Oxide Fabricaticated by Potentiostatic Electrodeposition Method
Authors: binti Mohamad Arifin Nurliyana , Mohamad Fariza , Hui Ling Chia , binti Zinal Nabiah , binti Mohd Hanif Asyikin Sasha , Muhd Nor Nik Hisyamudin , Izaki Masanobu
Published: March 2017

This experiment is about fabrication of n-type Cu2O thin film on fluorine doped thin oxide (FTO) glass by using copper acetate based solution through potentiostaticelectrodeposition. A range of deposition time was carried out from 20 to 40 minutes and the results were obtained. The other parameters such as potential deposition, bath temperature and pH value of solution were kept constant for-0.125Vvs Ag/AgCl, 60 °C and pH 6.3, respectively. It was found that the optimum deposition time for growth mechanism of n-type Cu2O thin film was 30 minutes. Structural, morphologicaland optical properties were characterized by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM), and Ultraviolet and visible Absorption Spectroscopy (UV-Vis), respectively. The successfully fabrication of n-Cu2O was confirmed using PEC measurement result.
Design of Reservoir Recognition Technique Component - Open Porosity in Non-Polarizing Electrodes
Authors: Skibinski Jakub , Wejrzanowski Tomasz , Kurzydlowski Krzysztof Jan
Published: March 2017

In the present study modeling of permeability of open-porosity ceramic materials used in non-polarizing electrodes is addressed. The structure of the material filling the electrode determines the infiltration of the ceramic structure by electrolyte, which influences the efficiency of the electrodes. The composition of electrode material was characterized with Scanning Electron Microscope Hitachi S3500N with EDS detector and the structure was determined with use of XRadia XCT400 tomograph . The complex geometry of porous materials has been designed using procedure based on Laguerre-Voronoi tessellations (LVT). A set of porous structures with different geometrical features has been developed using LVT algorithm. The approach used here allows to investigate the influence of geometrical features such pore size variation on the permeability of studied materials. Pressure drop characteristics of the developed structures has been analyzed using finite volume method (FVM). The results show that permeability of porous materials is strongly related with distribution of pore size. The study exhibits the utility of developed design procedure for optimization of non-polarizing electrodes performance.
Investigation of Impact Behavior of TIG Welded Inconel 718 at Aircraft Engine Operating Temperatures
Authors: Uzunonat Yagiz
Published: March 2017

In this work, Charpy notch pendulum impact test was performed on non-welded and TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welded Inconel 718 specimens at three different temperatures as 20°C, 500°C and 700°C. After the completion of tests, SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) inspection and EDX (Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy) analysis were performed for the microstructural examination of the specimens. Hardness measurements on the rupture zone of selected welded and non-welded specimens were also performed to make a better approach to interpretation of the impact behavior of material. Inspections indicated that hardness values in the heat affected zone of welded specimens dramatically decreased and they displayed higher ductility during fracture than non-welded samples due to partial softening of structure. The reason of further decrease in impact resistance of welded specimens was explained as the precipitation and coarsening of γ′′ and carbide phases in the interdendritic regions with increasing temperature.
Improving Mechanical Properties of Co-Cr-W Alloys by Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Sawangrat Choncharoen , Leksakul Komgrit
Published: March 2017

This study focuses on improving the mechanical properties of Co-Cr-W alloys by applying Harmonic Structure Design – bimodal grain size distribution with an interconnected framework of ultra-fine-grained (UFG) regions, called the “shell region”, surrounding isolated coarse-grained (CG) regions. Harmonic structure Co-Cr specimens were successfully fabricated by Powder Metallurgy (PM) that consisted of controlled mechanical milling and spark plasma sintering. The sintered compacts revealed an outstanding combination of strength and total elongation. Moreover, the sintering dwell time significantly improved densification and led to large total elongation. PM improved the mechanical properties of Co-Cr-W alloys and offered an attractive approach to fabricate harmonic structures for commercial applications.
Microstructural Investigation and Characterization of Bulk Brass Melted by Conventional and Microwave Processing Methods
Authors: Shashank Lingappa M. , Srinath M.S. , Amarendra Hassan Jayaraj
Published: March 2017

Microwave processing of bulk metallic materials is an emerging area. In the present work, brass in bulk form is melted in a modified domestic microwave oven operating at 2.45 GHz frequency. As-received and the as-cast brass are subjected to metallurgical and mechanical characterization. Specimens’ surface morphology is studied under Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) pattern shows the presence of copper oxides phase in both cast brass. Average tensile strength of brass melted using microwave oven is found higher when compared with brass melted in muffle furnace. Hardness of the as-cast brass is found to be higher than the as-received brass. However, brass cast by microwave irradiation exhibits around 2 % higher hardness than the brass cast by conventional heating. Microwave melting of brass consumed nearly six times less time compared to conventional melting.
Fire Retardation Mechanism of PVC Composite Filled with White Rice Husk Ash for Ceiling Board Applications
Authors: Bootkul Duangkhae , Intarasiri Saweat
Published: March 2017

The rising concern towards environmental issue underscores the “greenproducts” based on natural resources for a wide range of applications. Theseefforts include white rice husk ash (WRHA) considering as an alternative rawmaterial for lignocellulosic filler in green composite. We present the propertiesevaluation of composite WRHA dispersing into polyvinyl-chloride (PVC) with di-isononyl-phthalate(DINP) as compatibilizing agent by compression molding method. The XRD analysisshows typical main peak of silica crystalline, the strengthening materials asreinforcement within the composite structure. The SEM demonstrated that WRHAfillers were well embedded in PVC matrix and better adhesion occurred between themand the matrix. Thus, the adhesion between the reinforcing fiber and the matrixplays an important role in the mechanical properties of the materials. The positiveachievement for fire resistance and its mechanism were specially discussed forceiling board in/outdoor environment applications.
Packing Efficiency Characterization of SiC Abrasive Machining Particles for Photovoltaic Silicon Wafer Slicing
Authors: delos Reyes Ronald Allan S.
Published: March 2017

Silicon Carbide (SiC) abrasive machining solid particulates is one of the key engineering materials in the continuous development of wafer technology. Analysis of its packing behaviour is important to ensure the highest quality in the ingot cutting process to produce silicon PV wafers. One of the parameters that is monitored is the amount of fine particles present during the cutting operation and the subsequent separation technologies to recycle the material to reduce cost and allow environmental sustainability. This study presents results showing that with increasing circularity, less fines remain in the slurry suspension which is expressed as the percentage of total volume of particles in the slurry mixture. Furthermore, the work has gathered that there is a strong relationship between the % fines removed and the average diameter of the particles. An analysis of the relationship between the actual % fines remaining as a function of particle diameter reveals that the % fines remaining decreases as the particle diameter increases and this behavior correlates well with a power law equation. This agrees with a model of the fishhook effect during particle separation in a mini-hydrocyclone expressed as an equation raised to the fourth power.
Effect of Delaying Addition of Heat Stimulated Superplasticizer on Fresh Properties of Mortar
Authors: Tahery Zabihollah , Rahmanzai Faraidoon , Date Shigeyuki
Published: March 2017

To assure the quality and required workability of mortar or concrete, various types of superplasticizers are used. There are many factors affecting the performance of superplasticizers explicitly, type and dosage of the superplasticizers, type of cement, temperature and mixing procedure, as well as the addition times of the superplasticizers. Some researchers investigated the effect of delaying the addition time of superplasticizer to mortar or concrete, but there is not enough data about the effect of external temperature on performance of superplasticizers and consequent influences on fresh properties of mortar or concrete. In this research the effect of delaying the addition time of superplasticizers and influence of external temperature, namely, heat stimulation of superplasticizers, on fluidity, fresh density and air content of fresh cement mortar was investigated. Two types of Precast and Ready-Mix of Polycarboxylic acid-based ether superplasticizers with Ordinary Portland Cement was used. Delaying the addition time of superplasticizers enhanced the fluidity, slightly decreased the fresh density and increased the air content of mortar in comparison with simultaneous addition time with both heated and non-heated Superplasticizers.
Compressive Strength of Mortars Admixed with Wollastonite and Microsilica
Authors: Naderpour Hosein , Mirrashid Masoumeh
Published: March 2017

Mortar can be defined as a material which is used to hold building blocks that include bricks, stone or concrete together. In this paper, a special type of mortar which is mixed with Wollastonite and also micro-silica is considered and the goal was predicting the compressive strength of mortar in terms of artificial neural networks. For this purpose, the input parameters were assumed to be: the weight of microsilica, wollastonite, ordinary Portland cement, high-range water reducer, and also age of the mortar. Finally based on a sensitivity analysis, the relative importance of input parameters were determined.
Modeling the Hardness and Mechanical Properties of Moulded Natural Rubber Pad
Authors: Pajarito Bryan B. , Quizon Mara Angelika E. , Marquez Rofel Anne L. , Bermio Patricia Bianca C.
Published: March 2017

The Shore A hardness, tensile stress at specified elongation (100, 200, and 300%), and compression stress at given strain (20 and 40%) of moulded natural rubber pads were modeled as function of ingredient proportions. Nine ingredients of the rubber pad were chosen as factors and varied at two levels of proportions. A 29-5 fractional factorial design of experiment was utilized during rubber compounding. Results show hardness of rubber pads is significantly increased when proportions of carbon black, tetramethylthiuram disulfide (TMTD), and stearic acid are increased in the formulations; hardness is decreased when process oil, paraffin wax, and antidegradant are increased. The same effect of carbon black, process oil, paraffin wax, and TMTD is observed on tensile properties of rubber pads. Compression properties are improved when carbon black, zinc oxide, and antidegradant are increased; properties are lowered when process oil and paraffin wax are increased. Analysis of variance shows the variation of response with ingredient proportion is significantly linear. The derived empirical models show good agreement with experimental data.
Reinforcement of Stereolithography Resin with Silica-Based Fillers
Authors: Tilendo Amierson Castro , Pajarito Bryan B.
Published: March 2017

This study investigated the improvement of hardness and flexural properties of a commercial stereolithography (SLA) resin by reinforcement with silica-based fillers. Three types of fillers were studied: synthetic amorphous silica, milled fiberglass, and geothermal scale powder. Particle size and aspect ratio of fillers were estimated from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, while chemical structure was characterized by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. Fillers were added to SLA resin at 0, 10, and 20 vol%. Hardness and flexural properties of SLA composites are higher than unfilled resin. Moreover, both hardness and flexural properties of SLA composites are improved according to type (milled fiberglass > synthetic amorphous silica > geothermal scale powder) and loading (20 vol% > 10 vol%). The observed effect of filler type and loading on hardness and flexural properties of SLA composites is due to aspect ratio, intrinsic properties and dispersion of filler.
An Experimental Evaluation of Solid Lubricant Based Nanofluids in Small Quantity Cooling and Lubrication during Grinding
Authors: Paul Sourabh , Ghosh Amitava
Published: March 2017

Small quantity cooling lubrication (SQCL) with commercially available metal working fluids (MWF) and nanofluids has been attempted successfully in machining and grinding. Solid lubricants also provided some benefits in grinding of metallic alloys. However, there are very few studies using molybdenum di-sulphide (MoS2) and hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) dispersed nanofluids applied in SQCL mode in grinding. The aim of the present work is to experimentally study improvement in grinding of EN31 steel using alumina grinding wheel with aqueous MoS2 and hBN nanofluids. The grinding study is supported by detailed tribometry at 1 m/s sliding speed to reveal the possible reasons behind such improvement. MoS2 dispersed nanofluids provided minimum coefficient of friction in ball-on-disc test. It also provided the maximum reduction in specific grinding energy and improvement in surface finish with respect to flood cooling. hBN dispersed nanofluids could not match the performance of MoS2 dispersed nanofluids both in ball-on-disc and grinding experiments.
Post-pneumonectomy bronchopleural fistula: complex surgical repair for a high mortality case
Authors: Singh Devender , Gilbert Shegu , Arumugam Manohar , Subramanian Paulvannan , Mk Sivakumar , Ramachandra Srinivasa
Published: March 2017

Post-pneumonectomy empyema and bronchopleural fistula are dreaded complications of thoracic surgery. The associated mortality and morbidity is very high. When treatment is delayed secondary complications are more likely and survival is adversely affected. These conditions require early diagnosis and a wellplanned multi-disciplinary team approach for effective management. We present a patient with post-pneumonectomy empyema and bronchopleural fistula following pneumonectomy for post tuberculosis destroyed lung. He underwent debridement of the empyema cavity, double layer closure of the bronchial stump and reinforcement with omental flap and pectoralis major flap was used to obliterate the space. Debridement and pedicle flaps are safe and effective in the definitive management of postpneumonectomy empyema and bronchopleural fistulae.
The key points for treatment of Parkinsonism in older persons
Authors: Lauretani Fulvio , Ticinesi Andrea , Meschi Tiziana , Maggio Marcello
Published: March 2017

Signs and symptoms of Parkinsonism have a high prevalence in older persons. Parkinsonism is associated with negative outcomes in the elderly and there is still uncertainty about when and how to start levodopa in these conditions. The diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson disease is often not pursued in the oldest old. The coexistence of both motor and cognitive impairment is the strongest factor limiting the initiation of treatment with levodopa and/or dopamine agonists in a geriatric setting, given the possibility of producing psychotic symptoms, such as visual hallucinations. It seems reasonable to perform at least one attempt to administer levodopa in older persons with parkinsonism, especially when symptoms and motility disorders are evident, in order to try to obtain an improvement in walking speed and balance. Important signs that should guide treatment for Parkinsonism in older persons are the presence of line-pipe rigidity and cogwheel rigidity.
Stature estimation based on vertebral morphometry by dual energy X-rays absorptiometry imaging in Italian females
Authors: Milani Chantal , Di Stefano Marco , Isaia Giancarlo , Panattoni Gian Luigi
Published: March 2017

Anthropological profile in forensic context includes the assessment of parameters as ancestry, sex, age and stature of an individual by the analysis of skeletal remains. Stature can be estimated from decomposed and fully or partially skeletonized remains by means of anatomical or mathematical methods applied on the whole skeleton or single bones. Many authors calculated regression formulae for the living stature estimation by these methods, in particular based on a population similar to the remains recovered. Long bones are commonly used for stature estimation, but, when they are missing, methods involving different parts of the skeleton are needed. In this preliminary study we measured heights of the vertebral bodies in a female Caucasian Italian population, evaluated by images of morphometric X-ray absorptiometry based on dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in living subjects investigated for routine diagnostic purposes. Thoracic and lumbar segments of the spine were measured and statistical analysis was performed, thus obtaining regression formulae for estimated living stature from thoraco-lumbar spine segments (T6-T12, L1-L4 and T6-L4). We propose this method for stature evaluation in physical or forensic anthropology when the spine is available and long bones are missing.
On the occurrence of two species of Encarsia (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) parasitoids of Aleuroclava sp. (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) in Southern Italy
Authors: Viggiani G. , Iaccarino F.M.
Published: March 2017

Two species of Encarsia (E. aseta and E. sophia) were identified as parasitoids of Aleuroclava sp, probably A. aucubae. The occurrence of Encarsia aseta is recorded for the first time in Europe. The phenology of both, pest and parasitoids, is under study.
Trophic interactions among the heterotrophic components of plankton in man-made peat pools
Authors: Niedźwiecki Michał , Adamczuk Malgorzata , Mieczan Tomasz
Published: March 2017

Man-made peat pools are permanent freshwater habitats developed due to non-commercial man-made peat extraction. Yet, they have not been widely surveyed in terms of ecosystem functioning, mainly regarding the complexity of heterotrophic components of the plankton. In this study we analysed distribution and trophic interrelations among heterotrophic plankton in man-made peat pools located in different types of peatbogs. We found that peat pools showed extreme differences in environmental conditions that occurred to be important drivers of distribution of microplankton and metazooplankton. Abundance of bacteria and protozoa showed significant differences, whereas metazooplankton was less differentiated in density among peat pools. In all peat pools stress-tolerant species of protozoa and metazoa were dominant. In each peat pool five trophic functional groups were distinguished. The abundance of lower functional trophic groups (bacteria, heterotrophic nanoflagellates (HNF) and ciliates feeding on bacteria and HNF) was weakly influenced by environmental drivers and was highly stable in all peat pool types. Higher functional trophic groups (naupli, omnivorous and carnivorous ciliates, cladocerans, adult copepods and copepodites) were strongly influenced by environmental variables and exhibited lower stability. Our study contributes to comprehensive knowledge of the functioning of peat bogs, as our results have shown that peat pools are characterized by high stability of the lowest trophic levels, which can be crucial for energy transfer and carbon flux through food webs.
The role of carboplatin in the neoadjuvant chemotherapy treatment of triple negative breast cancer
Authors: Castrellon Aurelio Bartolome , Pidhorecky Ihor , Valero Vicente , Raez Luis Estuardo
Published: March 2017

Triple negative breast (TNBC) cancer constitutes a heterogeneous group of disease with histologic and molecular differences. Complete pathologic response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in TNBC is associated with improved outcomes. Efforts have been made in identifying drug combinations that will increase the response rate to preoperative chemotherapy. In this review we present recent studies that have incorporated carboplatin (Cb) in the NACT of TNBC. We discuss the homologous recombination deficiency score and the somatic or germline mutation for BRCA as potential biomarkers for future selection of patients that could benefit from the addition of Cb to NACT.
Paradoxical role of high mobility group box 1 in glioma: a suppressor or a promoter?
Authors: Seidu Richard A. , Wu Min , Su Zhaoliang , Xu Huaxi
Published: March 2017

Gliomas represent 60% of primary intracranial brain tumors and 80% of all malignant types, with highest morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although glioma has been extensively studied, the molecular mechanisms underlying its pathology remain poorly understood. Clarification of the molecular mechanisms involved in their development and/or treatment resistance is highly required. High mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) is a nuclear protein that can also act as an extracellular trigger of inflammation, proliferation and migration, through receptor for advanced glycation end products and toll like receptors in a number of cancers including gliomas. It is known that excessive release of HMGB1 in cancer leads to unlimited replicative potential, ability to develop blood vessels (angiogenesis), evasion of programmed cell death (apoptosis), self-sufficiency in growth signals, insensitivity to inhibitors of growth, inflammation, tissue invasion and metastasis. In this review we explore the mechanisms by which HMGB1 regulates apoptosis and autophagy in glioma. We also looked at how HMGB1 mediates glioma regression and promotes angiogenesis as well as possible signaling pathways with an attempt to provide potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of glioma.
Short time recovery from severe knee algodystrophy treated with ozone-oxygen autohemotherapy
Authors: Della Puppa Andrea , Franzini Marianno
Published: March 2017

We report a case of a 30-year-old man with algodystrophy of the left knee, who had complete recovery after 6-week treatment with ozoneoxygen autohemotherapy.
Echinococcus in the Orbit: An Unusual Hideout
Authors: Marfatia Hetal , Sathe Nilam , Hosagadde Subodh , Shah Keya
Published: March 2017

Isolated involvement of the orbit by hydatidosis is extremely rare. It is a parasitic infestation due to a tapeworm called Echinococcus Granulosus. It is an uncommon disease in head and neck region as it commonly manifests in the lungs and liver. When seen in head and neck, it has been found in the orbit, paranasal sinuses and salivary glands. Orbital hydatidosis per se forms only 1% of all types of hydatid disease. It is endemic in Africa, Middle East and Southeast Asian countries including India. In orbital hydatid disease, patients usually present with unilateral proptosis and diminution of vision. Proptosis is classically painless. Total surgical removal remains the mainstay of treatment. A 30-year-old female belonging to lower socio-economic status, presented with left eye proptosis since 2 years. There was a gradual increase in proptosis associated with diminution of vision over the last 4 months. This finally led to complete loss of vision in a period of two months. Computed tomography scan showed two soft homogenous non-enhancing cystic structures present in the orbit abutting the optic nerve without any intracranial extension; most likely differentials are a developmental cyst, hydatid cyst, epidermoid cyst, rhabdomyosarcoma or a nerve sheath tumor. Magnetic resonance imaging showed two T1 hypointense non-enhancing, T2 hyperintense soft cystic capsulated space-occupying lesions present in the extraconal compartment of orbit abutting the optic nerve, likely to be lymphangioma or a hydatid cyst. Surgery was planned and endoscopic orbital decompression was done. Sago grain-like granules were seen pouring out of the cysts. Cyst walls were completely removed in piecemeal and the specimen was sent for histopathology. Immediate intra-operative reduction of proptosis was seen. The final histopathological report was suggestive of hydatid cyst.
Alpha Hemoglobinophaties in Rosario, Argentina
Authors: Ojeda Mara Jorgelina , Perez Susana Mabel , Pratti Arianna Flavia , Calvo Karina Lucrecia , Raviola Mariana Paula , Voss María Eda , Williams Gladis Marcela , Noguera Nélida Inés , Carbonell María Magdalena , Aixalá Mónica Teresita , Bragós Irma Margarita
Published: March 2017

Hemoglobinopathies are the most common recessive diseases worldwide. While the molecular basis of β-thalassemia in Rosario has been addressed, that of α-thalassemia and α structural alterations, has not. In this study 105 individuals from different families referred to our center were investigated for alpha hemoglobinopathies because of low MCV (<85 fL), low MCH (<27 dg), normal HbA2 (≤3.5%) and transferrin saturation of >15%. Six of them with a clinical phenotype of thalassemia intermedia were diagnosed as Hb H disease (five cases) and Hb H like (one case). It also included one patient with sickle cell trait, confirmed by hematological and molecular studies. We were able to identify alpha globin genes mutations in 92 individuals (87.6%): 88 patients with alpha thalassemia, 3 patients with structural alterations and one with both. In total, 13 individuals (12.4%) had no identified α-globin mutation. This study is the first to deal with the molecular basis of α-hemoglobinophaties in Rosario.
Vinflunine and bladder cancer: present and future indications
Authors: Della Vittoria Scarpati Giuseppina , Perri Francesco , Ferro Matteo , Cavaliere Carla , Facchini Gaetano , Caraglia Michele , Zappavigna Silvia , Addeo Raffaele
Published: March 2017

Urothelial cancer (UC) frequently affects male sex over the sixth decade of life, and in about 30% of the cases, it is diagnosed as muscle-invasive disease. For patients with metastatic disease, the prognosis is grim and the typical treatment is polychemotherapy involving cisplatin. Secondline chemotherapy is often employed, but a standard scheme does not exist. Vinflunine (VFL) is a new generation vinca alkaloid able to reversibly link the subunits of tubulin, causing the arrest of mitotic spindle polymerization. In critical trials, VFL has shown good activity and manageable toxicity; in a phase III randomized trial, it significantly improved survival compared with the best supportive care (BSC). VFL has received European Medicines Agency (EMA) approval for use as second-line treatment in UC patients who progressed after a first-line cisplatin-containing chemotherapy. Due to its low toxicity and promising efficacy, VFL is under clinical experimentations aimed to assess its role in other disease settings.
The antioxidant mitochondrial protein UCP2 promotes cancer development connecting the Warburg effect and autophagy
Authors: Cordani Marco , Butera Giovanna , Pacchiana Raffaella , Donadelli Massimo
Published: March 2017

Not available.
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss: role of hyperbaric oxygen therapy
Authors: Ricciardiello Filippo , Abate Teresa , Pianese Annalisa , Mesolella Massimo , Oliva Flavia , Ferrise Pierpaolo , Cortese Giuseppe , Marmo Mariano , Villani Romolo , Abate Marianna , Mazzone Salvatore , Cavaliere Michele
Published: March 2017

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss is defined as an acute hearing reduction of 30 dB or more, in at least three consecutive frequencies, occurring within 3 days of symptom onset. There is no consensus on the best treatment option. The aims of this paper were to evaluate the effectiveness of a treatment protocol based on medical therapy combined with hyperbaric oxygen therapy and to examine the factors that influence the recovery of hearing (age, gender, the amount of time between the onset of symptoms and the initiation of treatment – time since onset –, audiometric curve type and objective vertigo). Audiometric results were evaluated according to Siegel’s criteria. In patients treated also with hyperbaric oxygen therapy we observed complete resolution in 44.1% of the patients, partial resolution in 37.2%, slight improvement in 10.5% and no improvement in 8.2% of the patients. This resolution pattern was significantly different from that observed in the patients treated only with medical therapy. The factors associated with a better prognosis were young age, rapid intervention, upward sloping or pantonal audiometric patterns and the absence of objective vertigo. Gender appeared to be an insignificant factor. Medical treatment associated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy gives better results in terms of hearing gain compared to exclusive medical treatment.
Early detection of laryngeal cancer: prominence of miRNA signature as a new tool for clinicians
Authors: Kawasaki Hiromichi , Zarone Mayra Rachele , Lombardi Angela , Ricciardiello Filippo , Caraglia Michele , Misso Gabriella
Published: March 2017

Early detection of laryngeal cancer, essential in the initial stages of the disease to achieve a high survival rate, is unfortunately hampered by the lack of specific symptoms. In this regard, there is a pressing need to dispose of reliable and non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic markers for a real time monitoring availing of accurate and reproducible methods, in order ensure applicability for early diagnosis and primary and secondary prevention. This review focuses on the recent reports that emphasize the crucial role of miRNAs in regulating laryngeal cancer tumorigenesis. In detail, we have reported the most characterized miRNAs with an established oncogenic or oncosuppressive role in cell biology of laryngeal cancer, also describing, for each of them, the main molecular mechanisms responsible for their specific function. We have also defined the potential of miRNAs as novel diagnostic and prognostic markers in virtue of their differential expression between laryngeal carcinoma tissues and the adjacent normal counterpart. Moreover, their proven stability in systemic circulation and other body fluids, as well as their easy detection and quantization, makes the analysis of miRNA signatures an excellent tool for clinicians as hallmark for cancer classification and diagnosis. Moreover, an eventual similarity between deregulated miRNAs in tumor tissues and in body fluids would allow to provide a considerable advantage for patients’ compliance, replacing invasive tissue biopsies with simple assays on easily obtained blood products.
Comparison of functional outcomes after robot-assisted laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy in women with a BMI below and above 30
Authors: Thubert Thibault , Dabi Yohann , Boudy Anne Sophie , Joubert Marion , Vaessen Christophe , Chartier-Kastler Emmanuel , Lefranc Jean-Pierre , Rouprêt Morgan
Published: March 2017

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of body-mass index on robot-assisted laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (RALSCP). A retrospective study was conducted on women who underwent a RALSCP. Data were collected prospectively from 17 obese and 78 non-obese patients treated between January 2008 and January 2013. Obesity was defined as a body-mass index (BMI) of ≥30 kg/m2. Relationships with outcome analysed using Mann– Whitney U-test and Fisher’s exact test. The operating time was the same in both groups: 220 vs 200 min in the obese and non-obese groups, respectively (P=0.232). The median follow-up was 12 months in both non-obese and obese patients. Overall anatomic repair rate was 94.1% and 97.4% for obese and non-obese patients, respectively (P=0.95). The overall reoperation rate (including surgery for de novo urinary-stress incontinence) was 5.9% for obese vs 11.5% for non-obese patients (P=0.8). These findings suggest that RALSCP is a viable option for obese women. The complication rates and outcomes for obese women were similar to those for non-obese women.
The Modified Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale in Currently Practicing Athletic Trainers
Authors: Welsch Lauren A. , Rutledge Carolyn , Hoch Johanna M.
Published: March 2017

Context:

Athletic trainers are encouraged to work collaboratively with other health care professionals to improve patient outcomes. Interprofessional education (IPE) experiences for practicing clinicians should be developed to improve interprofessional collaborative practice postcertification. An outcome measure, such as the modified Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale (mRIPLS), could be used to determine the clinician's attitudes toward IPE and to determine the effectiveness of the experience.

Objective:

To determine select psychometric properties of the mRIPLS in practicing athletic trainers.

Design:

Cross-sectional.

Setting:

Online survey.

Patients or Other Participants:

A survey was sent to 2000 randomly selected practicing athletic trainers. A total of 173 (8.7%) participated, and complete data were available for 145 (7.3%).

Intervention(s):

The survey consisted of a demographic section and the mRIPLS. The mRIPLS consists of 23 statements scored on a 5-point Likert scale divided into 3 subscales: teamwork and collaboration (TWC), patient-centeredness (PC), and sense of professional identity (PI).

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Cronbach α was used to examine the internal consistency. The presence of a ceiling effect (>50% respondents selected the highest score) was determined for each question by examining means and percentages.

Results:

The overall internal consistency of the mRIPLS was acceptable (α = 0.872) along with the TWC (α = 0.917) and PC (α = 0.862) subscales. The PI subscale (α = 0.632) was not acceptable. A ceiling effect was identified for 10 questions, and ≥70% of respondents selected highly agree or agree for 22 questions.

Conclusions:

While the mRIPLS demonstrated overall acceptable internal consistency, all 3 subscales did not. In addition, the presence of a ceiling effect makes the use of this instrument as an outcome measure trivial. Therefore, the current version of the mRIPLS may not be the best outcome to assess openness for IPE or to measure the effectiveness of IPE experiences in practicing athletic trainers.
The Impact of Concussion Education on the Knowledge and Perceived Expertise of Novice Health Care Professionals
Authors: Hunt Tamerah N. , Harris Laura , Way David
Published: March 2017

Context:

Concussion legislation mandates that health care providers have experience in concussion management. Unfortunately, standards for current continuing and clinician education are ill defined.

Objective:

(1) Determine if a didactic-based educational intervention would increase knowledge and perceived expertise and (2) examine the correlations between the variables of knowledge, experience, and perceived expertise.

Design:

Prospective cohort study, level II.

Patients or Other Participants:

Novice health care providers were divided into 2 groups: college sophomore athletic training students (n = 16) and college sophomore medical dietetics students (n = 19).

Setting:

Classroom setting.

Intervention(s):

Both groups were administered a knowledge questionnaire before the intervention (Time 1) and again 30 weeks later (Time 3). The athletic training student group completed a didactic intervention and completed the questionnaire at the end of the quarter ∼15 weeks later (Time 2).

Main Outcome Measure(s):

The main outcome measure was a 34-item questionnaire designed to examine knowledge, experience, and perceived expertise using true-false items, scenarios, Likert-scaled items, and open-ended questions derived from existing evidence and current literature. The scores from the knowledge, perceived expertise, and experience items served as dependent variables.

Results:

No statistically significant interaction between groups existed on knowledge scores after the didactic intervention (P = .10). Statistically significant interactions existed between group and time for both perceived expertise (F1,33 = 86.38, P ≤ .001) and experience (F1,33 = 14.2, P ≤ .001) with the athletic training student group demonstrating significant increases in scores over time. There was a statistically significant correlation between the number of concussions evaluated and perceived expertise (r2 = 0.630, P ≤ .001).

Conclusions:

Educators need to implement the best educational techniques to maximize knowledge attainment and perceived expertise. While it appears that clinical experience may supersede didactic education, a combination of both will encourage higher-level thinking and implementation.
Advanced Aligner Orthodontics
Authors: Kenji Ojima
Published: March 2017

Invisalign initially had limitations which have now been overcome. Advances in the quality of aligner materials, attachments and the introduction of a new force system, have expanded the range of treatment possibilities from severe crowding to more difficult extraction cases, open bite cases, and lower molar distalization cases.
Effectiveness of audiovisual distraction with computerized delivery of anesthesia during the placement of stainless steel crowns in children with Down syndrome
Authors: Fakhruddin Kausar Sadia , El Batawi Hisham , Gorduysus M. O.
Published: March 2017

Objective: Assessing effectiveness of audiovisual (AV) distraction with/without video eyewear and computerized delivery system-intrasulcular (CDS-IS) for local anesthesia during placement of stainless steel crowns for the management of pathological tooth grinding in children with Down syndrome. Materials and Methods: This clinical study includes 22 children (13 boys and 9 girls), with mean age being 7.1 years. The study involved three sessions 1-week apart. During Session I, dental prophylaxis to the upper jaw was done while watching a movie projected on the ceiling without video eyewear whereas prophylaxis for the lower jaw and impressions of both jaws were taken while watching another movie using eyewear projection. After 1 week, during Session II/III, children had their upper and lower second primary molars which were prepared and steel crowns inserted, respectively, while watching movies which were projected using video eyewear under the effect of CDS-IS local anesthesia. Changes in pulse oximeter and heart rate were recorded every 5 min. Independent sample t-test was used to assess significance of changes during each visit. Results: A statistically significant difference (P < 0.03) was observed in mean pulse rate between dental prophylaxis without video eyewear and during dental prophylaxis and dental impression taken while children were distracted using AV distracter with video eyewear. We observed an increase in mean pulse rate during tooth preparation use dental drills, but this does not lead to disruptive behavior as children were being distracted by AV distracter with video eyewear. Conclusion: Routine psychological (Tell-Show-Do) intervention along with visual distraction using video eyewear and use of CDS-IS system for anesthetic delivery is recommended as an effective behavior management technique for children with Down syndrome during invasive dental treatment.
A vertical channel model of molecular communication and its test-bed
Authors: Lu Pengfei , Wu Zhenqiang , Liu Bo
Published: March 2017

The study of molecular communication is more and more prevalence, and channel model of molecular communication plays an important role in the molecular communication system. Diﬀerent propagation environment and modulation techniques lead to diﬀerent channel model, and most of the previous researches are mainly concentrate on the channel model in horizontal direction. However, in nature the communications between nano-machines are in short range and some of the information propagation are in the vertical direction, such as transpiration of plants, biological pump in ocean, etc. Therefore, in this paper a vertical channel model was proposed in which nano-machines communicate with each other mainly through diﬀusion at the vertical direction. Firstly, proposing a vertical molecular communication model, we mainly focus on the gravity, though the channel model is also aﬀected by other main factors, such as the ﬂow of the medium, the distance between the transmitter and the receiver, the delay or sensitivity of the transmitter and the receiver, etc. Secondly, we set up a test-bed for the vertical channel model, and verify the diﬀerences between the theoretical result and the experimental result. Finally, we get the parameters of the channel model which was proposed for the test-bed by utilizing the experimental data and the non-linear least squares method.
A novel motion monitoring system for activities of daily living
Authors: He X. , Farajidavar A.
Published: March 2017

Capability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) is a major factor in quality of life (QOL). While it can be difficult for the elderly, disabled, or patients with chronic diseases to deal with ADLs, they need to spend a great deal of money on healthcare and assistive technologies to keep a good QOL. The situation can be improved if a real-time ADLs monitoring and recognition system is available to provide health information to physicians, pharmacists, or caregivers to offer timely diagnosis, prescription, or emergency reaction. We have developed a wireless wearable motion monitoring system that is suitable for monitoring ADLs involving limbs. The system consists of six Bluetooth low energy (BLE) transponders that are small and light enough to be mounted on all limbs. Each transponder, called SensorTag (by Texas Instruments), is equipped with a tri-axial accelerometer, a tri-axial magnetometer, and a tri-axial gyroscope for motion monitoring. Each SensorTag can be linked to a smartphone for long-term outdoor monitoring. A graphic user interface is created to acquire signals from BLE receivers, display the sig-nals in real-time, process data, and store for off-line analysis. This system was tested in three scenarios, and signals were analyzed off-line using a quaternion-based motion recon-struction algorithm. First, a SensorTag was examined against a marker-based motion capture system in a linear motion test. Second, a SensorTag was worn on a subject’s wrist to monitor food-intake trajectory. Finally, six SensorTags were worn on wrist, knee, and ankle joints of left and right hands to monitor gait on a straight path. Results showed various er-ror rates in different scenarios, however, the error rates are within an acceptable range, and more importantly the patterns of the motions are reproducible.
Off-Road Tire Replacement Guidelines
Authors:   MTC8, Tire and Rim
Published: March 2017

This SAE information report covers the basic guidelines concerning off-road tire conditions that warrant replacement, removal, or repair. This material can assist the tire user in establishing specific written procedures for each job site.
Reliability Prediction for Automotive Electronics Based on Field Return Data
Authors:   Automotive Electronic Systems Reliability Standards
Published: March 2017

This document should be used as guidance for non-handbook based reliability predictions conducted on automotive electronics products. It presents a method that utilizes warranty and field repair data to calculate the failure rates of individual electronic components and predict the reliability of the entire electronic system. It assumes that the user has access to a database containing field return data with classification of components, times to failure, and a total number of components operating in the field.