bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-spinal Headache after Caesarean Section  Effect of Approach Into Dura-Arachnoid Sac
Authors: Dhar Satyajit , Paul Manisha , Sarkar Nitai Chandra , Zebunnesa Moshammat , Hoque AKM Faizul , Chowdhury Gulshan Ara , Alam AKM Shamsul
Published: October 2017

Introduction : Spinal anaesthesia is the technique of choice for caesarian section. But post-spinal headache (PSH) is still a headache for the anaesthesiologist even after using modern spinocaine needles.Objective : This study was performed to compare the incidence of PSH between midline and lateral approach when caesarian sections were done by spinal anaesthesia.Methods : After ethical clearance this study was done in Chittagong Medical College Hospital. Two hundred pregnant women of American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I & II who underwent caesarian section were included and randomized into 2 groups. After informed consent spinal needle were inserted by midline approach in Group A patients and by lateral approach in Group B patients. After appearance of free flow of CSF 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine 10 mg was injected to each patient. PSH and other complications were evaluated.Results : Incidence of PSH was significantly higher in Group A patients.Conclusion : Lateral approach during spinal anaesthesia is better than midline approach in preventing PSH.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2017; 35(3): 123-127
Management of Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome: An Overview
Authors: Sadat SM Anwar , Chowdhury Naim Mahmud , Baten Redwan Bin Abdul , Uddin ABM Farid , Rita Sufia Nasrin
Published: October 2017

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction is a complex and multifactorial disorder of oro-facial region. It is one of the most common disorders in maxillofacial region. The usual complain of the patients with this syndrome are pain in the area of the jaw and associated muscles, eating problem, chewing and locking of the jaw. It is more common in female than male. Its etiology is not yet well established. However its successful management depends on identification and controlling of the etiological factors.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2017; 35(3): 133-141
Patient Profiles of Potts Diseases: Experience of 50 Cases in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Dhaka City
Authors: Alam Md Shafiul , Khan Amir Mohammad , Farzana Tayseer , Salam Md Abdus , Talukder Abdur Rabban
Published: October 2017

Background: Spinal tuberculosis is a great problem in the health sector. Objective: The purpose of the present study was to see the see the socio-demographic characteristics of spinal tuberculosis patients. Methodology: This study was designed as descriptive cross sectional study which was carried out in the Department of Neurosurgery at Dhaka Medical College Hospital during the period of January 2002 to December 2004 for a period of two (2) years. All the patients who were presented with spinal tuberculosis at any age with both sexes were included as study population. The details of socio-economic condition were recorded of all the patients. Confirmation of spinal tuberculosis was made by CT-scan and MRI. Finally biopsy was done to confirm the cases by histopathology.Results: In this study, 50 cases of tuberculosis of the spine patients were recruited for this study. The mean age with SD was 25.4±18.65 years. The sex distribution shows male preponderance with a male and female ratio of 1.63:1. Regarding the socioeconomic status 33 (66%) patients came from low class society. In this study majority of the study population were illiterate which was 19(38.0%) cases. Most of the patients were day labourer which was 17(34.0%) cases.Conclusion: In conclusion young adult male patients are most commonly affected by spinal tuberculosis.Journal of National Institute of Neurosciences Bangladesh, 2016;2(2): 48-50
Diagnostic Test Validity of MCV for Determination of Thalassaemia Carrier in Bangladesh
Authors: Haque Nazmul , Saha Narayan Chandra , Rahman Mohammad Ekhlasur , Ahmed Tahmina
Published: October 2017

Background: Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) of red blood cell is the useful diagnostic test which is performed during routine blood examination.Objective: The purpose of the present study was to measure the diagnostic test validity of MCV for the determination of thalassaemia carrier. Methodology: This analytic cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Pediatrics and Department of Medicine at MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital, Sylhet, Bangladesh from September 2007 to January 2009 for a period of one year and five months. Siblings and cousins of beta Thalassemia major and Hb- E -beta Thalassemia satisfying the selection criteria were enrolled. The detailed history and thorough physical examination were done meticulously. Five (5) mL blood was drawn from each case and control for determination of MCV and Hb-Electrophoresis. Result: Total 63 were enrolled as cases and total 65 were enrolled as controls. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value of MCV in determination of thalassemic carriers were 92%, 89.2%, 89.2% and 92% respectively. The area under the curve value was 0.094 (0.035 to 0.152). Conclusion: In conclusion the diagnostic test validity of MCH and MCH is high in determination of Thalassemic carrier. Journal of National Institute of Neurosciences Bangladesh, 2016;2(2): 94-97]
Prescription of analgesics in orthopaedic outpatient department at a tertiary health care facility
Authors: Nazrina S , Khan MNI , Maruf AA
Published: October 2017

The objective of the present prospective cross sectional descriptive study was to evaluate the prescribing pattern of analgesic drug by orthopaedic surgeons in outdoor patients. This study was conducted in the orthopaedic outpatient department (OPD) of the Department of Orthopaedics, Border Guard Hospital, Pilkhana, Dhaka for six months period from January 2016 to June 2016. Randomly selected 324 prescriptions were collected from the attending patients on OPD and analyzed. The details of prescribed drugs, various analgesics, monotherapy or combined therapy and use of generic name were analyzed. Among the 324 study prescriptions, males and females were 63.9% and 36.1%, respectively. Majority of patients (80.8%) were within 31-60 years of age. Different classes of drugs were prescribed: non-selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) use was 45.2%, selective NSAIDs 2.9%, opioid analgesics 7.3%, H2 blockers 13.6%, proton pump inhibitors 17.1%, muscle relaxants 4.0%, benzodiazepines 8.1%, and other adjuvants 1.9%. Among individual analgesics: diclofenac 23.5%, aceclofenac 6.0%, ketorolac 6.9%, naproxane 10.8%, ibuprofen 3.7%, indomethacin 3.5%, etoricoxib 6.2%, tramadol 15.4% and paracetamol 24.0% were used. Of the 324 patients, 33.6% received combination of analgesics: diclofenac+paracetamol 37.6%, aceclofenac+paracetamol 14.7%, ketorolac+ paracetamol 20.2%, tramadol+paracetamol 22.9% and diclofenac+tramadol 4.6%. Use of trade names was for 80.5% drugs and generic names for 19.5% drugs. NSAIDs were widely prescribed drugs. Use of selective was less comparing to non-selective NSAIDs. Tramadol was the most commonly prescribed opioid drug. Gastro protective agents were used with NSAIDs. Prescribers need to be encouraged to prescribe drugs only using generic names.Mediscope Vol. 4, No. 1: Jan 2017, Page 11-17
Spinal anaesthesia in children under sedation
Authors: Maruf AA , Alam M , Ali MB , Nazrina S
Published: October 2017

Spinal anaesthesia in children evolved more than hundred years ago and gaining considerable popularity worldwide. In our setups in Bangladesh, this technique has not gained popularity yet but over the past few years this technique has been practiced in some centers. The objective of the present study was to observe the efficacy and safety of spinal anaesthesia under sedation in children scheduled for infra-umbilical surgical procedures. In this study, 67 children of age ranging from 2 to 10 years of either sex, with American Society of Anaesthesioloists physical status I and II, undergoing infra-umbilical surgeries were included. Spinal anaesthesia was administered with Quincke 27 gauge needles between L4L5 or L5-S1 interspace in the lateral position under sedation with ketamine and midazolam. Heart rate, mean arterial blood pressure and oxygen saturation (SpO2) were monitored throughout perioperative period. Complications of sedation and spinal anaesthesia were recorded and managed accordingly. Among 67 children, male and female were 62 (92.5%) and 5(7.5%), respectively. The mean (SD) age, body weight, American Society of Anaesthesiologists physical status I and II was 5.2 (2.1) years, 15.5 (4.8) kg, 60 (89.6%) and 7 (10.5%), respectively. Successful spinal anaesthesia was done in all cases. The incidences of side effects of sedation were transient apnoea 1 (1.5%), desaturation (SpO2<93%) 3 (4.5%), stridor 1 (1.5%), laryngospasm 1 (1.5%) and agitation 4 (6.0%). Side effects were transient, self limiting and managed conservatively. Complications of spinal anaesthesia were hypotension 2 (3.0%), bradycardia 1 (1.5%), shivering 1 (1.5%), nausea and vomiting 1 (1.5%) and backache 1 (1.5%). The complications were minor and managed accordingly. There were no serious adverse events reported in any child. The mean (SD) operation time and recovery time from anaesthesia was 49.2 (8.4) minutes and 91.2 (9.2) minutes, respectively. Spinal anaesthesia under sedation with ketamine and midazolam is safe and effective technique for paediatric infraumbilical surgery.Mediscope Vol. 4, No. 1: Jan 2017, Page 18-24
Performance of Precision Mobile Drip Irrigation in the Texas High Plains Region
Authors: O’Shaughnessy Susan A. , Colaizzi Paul D.
Published: October 2017

Mobile drip irrigation (MDI) technology adapts driplines to the drop hoses of moving sprinkler systems to apply water as the drip lines are pulled across the field. There is interest in this technology among farmers in the Texas High Plains region to help sustain irrigated agriculture. However, information on the performance of this system and its benefits relative to common sprinkler application technologies in the region are limited. A two-year study was conducted in 2015 and 2016 to compare grain yields, crop water use (ETc) and water use efficiency (WUE) of corn (Zea Mays L.) irrigated with MDI, low elevation spray application (LESA) and low energy precision application (LEPA) methods. Irrigation amounts for each application method were based on weekly neutron probe readings. In both years, grain yield and yield components were similar among application treatment methods. Although WUE was similar for the MDI treatment plots compared with LEPA and LESA during the wet growing season (2015), MDI demonstrated improved WUE during the drier year of 2016. Additional studies using crops with less than full canopy cover at maturity (sorghum and cotton) are needed to document the performance of MDI in the Texas High Plains region.
Compact Left-Handed Meta-Atom for S-, C- and Ku-Band Application
Authors: Hasan Md. , Faruque Mohammad , Islam Mohammad
Published: October 2017

A new compact left-handed meta-atom for S-, C- and Ku-band applications is presented in this paper. The proposed structure provides a wide bandwidth and exhibits left-handed characteristics at 0°, 90°, 180° and 270° (xy-axes) rotations. Besides, the left-handed characteristics and wide bandwidth of 1 × 2, 2 × 2, 3 × 3 and 4 × 4 arrays are also investigated at the above-mentioned rotation angles. In this study, the meta-atom is designed by creating splits at the outer and inner square-shaped ring resonators, and a metal arm is placed at the middle of the inner ring resonator. The arm is also connected to the upper and lower portions of the inner ring resonator, and later, the design appears as an I-shaped split ring resonator. The commercially available, finite integration technique (FIT)-based electromagnetic simulator CST Microwave Studio is used for design and simulation purposes. The measured data comply well with the simulated data of the unit cell for 1 × 2, 2 × 2, 3 × 3 and 4 × 4 arrays at every rotation angle. Owing to the effective medium ratio (EMR) of 8.50 at 0° and 180° rotations, the proposed meta-atom structure is compact in size. Moreover, due to the quality factor of 82, the designed meta-atom is flexible for high-performance antenna, filter and sensor applications. Therefore, the meta-atom integrated antenna shows multi frequency bands with the highest peak gain of 5 dBi, which is used as the long distance radio communication frequency.
Research on the Mechanical, Thermal, Induction Heating and Healing Properties of Steel Slag/Steel Fibers Composite Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Liu Quantao , Li Bin , Schlangen Erik , Sun Yihan , Wu Shaopeng
Published: October 2017

In this paper, steel slag/steel fiber composite asphalt mixture were prepared. The effects of the addition of steel slag and/or steel fibers on the mechanical, thermal, induction heating and healing properties of asphalt mixture were investigated. The results showed that adding steel slag and/or steel fibers improves the water stability, particle loss resistance and fracture energy of asphalt mixtures. The addition of steel fibers increased the thermal conductivity and thermal diffusion of the asphalt mixture, and steel slag showed a reverse effect. Steel slag asphalt mixture cooled more slowly than steel fiber asphalt mixture, which is beneficial to crack healing of asphalt mixture. The composite of steel fibers and steel slag can enhance the induction heating speed, heating homogeneity and thus enhance the induction healing ratio of asphalt mixture. It is concluded that steel slag/steel fibers composite asphalt mixture achieves good mechanical and induction healing properties.
Characterization and Use of Construction and Demolition Waste from South of Brazil in the Production of Foamed Concrete Blocks
Authors: Favaretto Patrícia , Hidalgo Gelsa , Sampaio Carlos , Silva Rodrigo , Lermen Richard
Published: October 2017

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the use of construction and demolition waste (CDW) from the Passo Fundo region of Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil, in the development of aerated foamed concrete. This waste had not yet been characterized or even reused. CDW was processed (sieved only), characterized, and used as an aggregate, completely substituting natural sand. The influence of CDW granulometry and the amount of foam upon compressive strength, wet and dry bulk density, water absorption, and the air voids of concrete blocks were determined. Results showed that CDW has regular characteristics for the development of aerated foamed concrete. Compressive strength and density decreased as the amount of foam increased, while water absorption and air voids also increased. Also, CDW that was classified as coarse showed higher compressive strength. On average, CDW medium-sized particles had a higher air void content, while water absorption showed little variation with respect to granulometry. CDW residue from the region of study can be used as aggregate for the development of aerated foamed concrete. However, it must characterized before being used to guarantee the quality of the final product.
Hybrid Prediction Model of the Temperature Field of a Motorized Spindle
Authors: Zhang Lixiu , Li Chaoqun , Wu Yuhou , Zhang Ke , Shi Huaitao
Published: October 2017

The thermal characteristics of a motorized spindle are the main determinants of its performance, and influence the machining accuracy of computer numerical control machine tools. It is important to accurately predict the thermal field of a motorized spindle during its operation to improve its thermal characteristics. This paper proposes a model to predict the temperature field of a high-speed and high-precision motorized spindle under different working conditions using a finite element model and test data. The finite element model considers the influence of the parameters of the cooling system and the lubrication system, and that of environmental conditions on the coefficient of heat transfer based on test data for the surface temperature of the motorized spindle. A genetic algorithm is used to optimize the coefficient of heat transfer of the spindle, and its temperature field is predicted using a three-dimensional model that employs this optimal coefficient. A prediction model of the 170MD30 temperature field of the motorized spindle is created and simulation data for the temperature field are compared with the test data. The results show that when the speed of the spindle is 10,000 rpm, the relative mean prediction error is 1.5%, and when its speed is 15,000 rpm, the prediction error is 3.6%. Therefore, the proposed prediction model can predict the temperature field of the motorized spindle with high accuracy.
Biomimetic Cationic Nanoparticles Based on Silica: Optimizing Bilayer Deposition from Lipid Films
Authors: Ribeiro Rodrigo , Braga Victor , Carmona-Ribeiro Ana
Published: October 2017

The optimization of bilayer coverage on particles is important for a variety of biomedical applications, such as drug, vaccine, and genetic material delivery. This work aims at optimizing the deposition of cationic bilayers on silica over a range of experimental conditions for the intervening medium and two different assemblies for the cationic lipid, namely, lipid films or pre-formed lipid bilayer fragments. The lipid adsorption on silica in situ over a range of added lipid concentrations was determined from elemental analysis of carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen and related to the colloidal stability, sizing, zeta potential, and polydispersity of the silica/lipid nanoparticles. Superior bilayer deposition took place from lipid films, whereas adsorption from pre-formed bilayer fragments yielded limiting adsorption below the levels expected for bilayer adsorption.
Progress in Genetic Studies of Tourette’s Syndrome
Authors: Qi Yanjie , Zheng Yi , Li Zhanjiang , Xiong Lan
Published: October 2017

Tourette’s Syndrome (TS) is a complex disorder characterized by repetitive, sudden, and involuntary movements or vocalizations, called tics. Tics usually appear in childhood, and their severity varies over time. In addition to frequent tics, people with TS are at risk for associated problems including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, depression, and problems with sleep. TS occurs in most populations and ethnic groups worldwide, and it is more common in males than in females. Previous family and twin studies have shown that the majority of cases of TS are inherited. TS was previously thought to have an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance. However, several decades of research have shown that this is unlikely the case. Instead TS most likely results from a variety of genetic and environmental factors, not changes in a single gene. In the past decade, there has been a rapid development of innovative genetic technologies and methodologies, as well as significant progresses in genetic studies of psychiatric disorders. In this review, we will briefly summarize previous genetic epidemiological studies of TS and related disorders. We will also review previous genetic studies based on genome-wide linkage analyses and candidate gene association studies to comment on problems of previous methodological and strategic issues. Our main purpose for this review will be to summarize the new genetic discoveries of TS based on novel genetic methods and strategies, such as genome-wide association studies (GWASs), whole exome sequencing (WES) and whole genome sequencing (WGS). We will also compare the new genetic discoveries of TS with other major psychiatric disorders in order to understand the current status of TS genetics and its relationship with other psychiatric disorders.
Analysis of Predictive Factors on Minors’ Mental Health According to the Spanish National Health Survey
Authors: Fajardo-Bullón Fernando , Rasskin-Gutman Irina , Felipe-Castaño Elena , Ribeiro dos Santos Eduardo , León-del Barco Benito
Published: October 2017

Research on minors’ mental health is an increasingly developing area. Given the increased prevalence of disorders, it seems necessary to analyze the factors that can affect poor mental health. This study analyzes the influence of occupational class, educational level, age, sex and perceived mental health of Spanish children, which is measured through the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. The sample consists of 3599 minors between 4 and 14 years old, who were interviewed through the Spanish National Health Survey 2011. Our results indicating the significant (p < 0.05) relationship between mental health, occupational class (OR 0.533) and minors’ health in the last year (OR 0.313) are shown. However, gender (OR 1.187) and educational level of Pre-School Education in relation to Secondary Education (OR 1.174) and Primary Education (OR 0.996) do not generate significant differences. In conclusion, we consider it necessary to design and implement public policies aimed at improving the care system for children who have had poor or regular health in the last year, and whose parents are positioned in the lowest part of the occupational scale.
Identification of Value Proposition and Development of Innovative Business Models for Demand Response Products and Services Enabled by the DR-BOB Solution
Authors: Sisinni Mario , Noris Federico , Smit Sander , Messervey Thomas , Crosbie Tracey , Breukers Sylvia , Van Summeren Luc
Published: October 2017

The work presented is the result of an ongoing European H2020 project entitled DR-BOB Demand Response in Blocks of Buildings (DR-BOB) that seeks to integrate existing technologies to create a scalable solution for Demand Response (DR) in blocks of buildings. In most EU countries, DR programs are currently limited to the industrial sector and to direct asset control. The DR-BOB solution extends applicability to the building sector, providing predictive building management in blocks of buildings, enabling facilities managers to respond to implicit and explicit DR schemes, and enabling the aggregation of the DR potential of many blocks of buildings for use in demand response markets. The solution consists of three main components: the Local Energy Manager (LEM), which adds intelligence and provides the capacity for predictive building management in blocks of buildings, a Consumer Portal (CP) to enable building managers and building occupants to interact with the system and be engaged in demand response operations, and a Decentralized Energy Management System (DEMS®, Siemens plc, Nottingham, England, UK), which enables the aggregation of the DR potential of many blocks of buildings, thus allowing participation in incentive-based demand response with or without an aggregator. The paper reports the key results around Business Modelling development for demand response products and services enabled by the DR-BOB solution. The scope is threefold: (1) illustrate how the functionality of the demand response solution can provide value proposition to underpin its exploitation by four specific customer segments, namely aggregators and three types of Owners of Blocks of Buildings in different market conditions, (2) explore key aspects of the Business Model from the point of view of a demand response solution provider, in particular around most the suitable revenue stream and key partnership, and (3) assess the importance of key variables such as market maturity, user engagement, and type of blocks of buildings as drivers to market penetration and profitability. The work presented is framed by the expected evolution of DR services in different market contexts and the different relationships between the main stakeholders involved in the DR value chain in different EU countries. The analysis also relies on the results of interviews conducted at the fours pilot sites of the DR-BOB project with key representatives of the management, operations, and marketing. These are used to better understand customer needs and sharpen the value proposition.
An Atomistic Carbide-Derived Carbon Model Generated Using ReaxFF-Based Quenched Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Thompson Matthew , Dyatkin Boris , Wang Hsiu-Wen , Turner C. , Sang Xiahan , Unocic Raymond , Iacovella Christopher , Gogotsi Yury , Van Duin Adri , Cummings Peter
Published: October 2017

We report a novel atomistic model of carbide-derived carbons (CDCs), which are nanoporous carbons with high specific surface areas, synthesis-dependent degrees of graphitization, and well-ordered, tunable porosities. These properties make CDCs viable substrates in several energy-relevant applications, such as gas storage media, electrochemical capacitors, and catalytic supports. These materials are heterogenous, non-ideal structures and include several important parameters that govern their performance. Therefore, a realistic model of the CDC structure is needed in order to study these systems and their nanoscale and macroscale properties with molecular simulation. We report the use of the ReaxFF reactive force field in a quenched molecular dynamics routine to generate atomistic CDC models. The pair distribution function, pore size distribution, and adsorptive properties of this model are reported and corroborated with experimental data. Simulations demonstrate that compressing the system after quenching changes the pore size distribution to better match the experimental target. Ring size distributions of this model demonstrate the prevalence of non-hexagonal carbon rings in CDCs. These effects may contrast the properties of CDCs against those of activated carbons with similar pore size distributions and explain higher energy densities of CDC-based supercapacitors.
Monitoring Autophagy in the Model Green Microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Pérez-Pérez María , Couso Inmaculada , Heredia-Martínez Luis , Crespo José
Published: October 2017

Autophagy is an intracellular catabolic system that delivers cytoplasmic constituents and organelles in the vacuole. This degradative process is mediated by a group of proteins coded by autophagy-related (ATG) genes that are widely conserved from yeasts to plants and mammals. Homologs of ATG genes have been also identified in algal genomes including the unicellular model green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The development of specific tools to monitor autophagy in Chlamydomonas has expanded our current knowledge about the regulation and function of this process in algae. Recent findings indicated that autophagy is regulated by redox signals and the TOR network in Chlamydomonas and revealed that this process may play in important role in the control of lipid metabolism and ribosomal protein turnover in this alga. Here, we will describe the different techniques and approaches that have been reported to study autophagy and autophagic flux in Chlamydomonas.
Standard Assays for the Study of Autophagy in the Ex Vivo Retina
Authors: Gómez-Sintes Raquel , Villarejo-Zori Beatriz , Serrano-Puebla Ana , Esteban-Martínez Lorena , Sierra-Filardi Elena , Ramírez-Pardo Ignacio , Rodríguez-Muela Natalia , Boya Patricia
Published: October 2017

Autophagy is a catabolic pathway that mediates the degradation and recycling of intracellular components, and is a key player in a variety of physiological processes in cells and tissues. Recent studies of autophagy in the eye suggest that this pathway is fundamental for the preservation of retinal homeostasis. Given its accessible location outside the brain, the retina is an ideal organ in which to study the central nervous system and a wide range of neuronal processes, from development to neurodegeneration. Here we review several methods used to assess autophagy in the retina in both physiological and pathological conditions.
Ionic Liquid as Reaction Media for the Production of Cellulose-Derived Polymers from Cellulosic Biomass
Authors: Lopes Joana , Bermejo María , Martín Ángel , Cocero María
Published: October 2017

The most frequent polymer on nature is cellulose that is present together with lignin and hemicellulose in vegetal biomass. Cellulose can be, in the future, sustainable raw matter for chemicals, fuels, and materials. Nevertheless, only 0.3% of cellulose is processed nowadays due to the difficulty in dissolving it, and only a small proportion is used for the production of synthetic cellulosic fibers especially esters and other cellulose derivatives, normally in extremely polluting processes. The efficient and clean dissolution of cellulose is a major objective in cellulose research and development. Ionic liquids (ILs) are considered “green” solvents due to their low vapor pressure, that prevents them evaporating into the atmosphere. In addition, these molten salts present advantages in process intensification, leading to more than 70 patents in lignocellulosic biomass in ILs being published since 2005, most of them related to the production of cellulose derived polymers, e.g., acetates, benzoylates, sulfates, fuorates, phthalates, succinates, tritylates, or silylates. In this work, the use of ILs for production of cellulose derived polymers is thoroughly studied. To do so, in the first place, a brief summary of the state of the art in cellulose derivatives production is presented, as well as the main features of ILs in cellulose processing applications. Later, the main results in the production of cellulose derivatives using ILs are presented, followed by an analysis of the industrial viability of the process, considering aspects such as environmental concerns and ILs’ recyclability.
Sleep Disturbances in Newborns
Authors: Barbeau Daphna Yasova , Weiss Michael D.
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this review is to serve as an introduction to understanding sleep in the fetus, the preterm neonate and the term neonate. Sleep appears to have numerous important roles, particularly in the consolidation of new information. The sleep cycle changes over time, neonates spend the most time in active sleep and have a progressive shortening of active sleep and lengthening of quiet sleep. Additionally, the sleep cycle is disrupted by many things including disease state and environment, and the amplitude integrated EEG can be a useful tool in evaluating sleep, and sleep disturbances, in neonates. Finally, there are protective factors for infant sleep that are still being studied.
Degradation of Tyrosinase by Melanosomal pH Change and a New Mechanism of Whitening with Propylparaben
Authors: Zeng Haifeng , Harashima Akane , Kato Koichi , Gu Lihao , Motomura Yosuke , Otsuka Ryoichi , Maeda Kazuhisa
Published: October 2017

Many active cosmetic ingredients formulated as medicated whitening products (quasi-drugs) achieve their effect through inhibition of tyrosinase activity, but no products can achieve this effect through degradation of intramelanosomal tyrosinase. Melanin is synthesized by tyrosinase, which is localized to the membrane of melanosomes in melanocytes. It has been reported that the optimal pH of tyrosinase activity is nearly neutral and decreases under acidic conditions. The environment in melanosomes that tyrosinase acts on has attracted attention from researchers. We found that tyrosinase was degraded by acidification of melanosomes, thereby decreasing its activity. We found that both inhibitors of aspartic protease and cysteine protease decreased the degradation of tyrosinase. It is thought that aspartic protease and cysteine protease are participating in the degradation of tyrosinase in acid melanosome. Melanosomal pH is regulated by Na+/H+ exchangers and V-ATPase. We investigated the mechanisms of the inhibitory effect of melanin production of propylparaben using B16 melanoma cells. The expression level of mRNA of tyrosinase and related proteins (Trp-1 and Dct) was not affected by propylparaben; however, the protein levels in melanosomes decreased. We investigated the mechanisms of the inhibitory effect of propylparaben on melanin production using B16 melanoma cells. The effects of propylparaben on the mRNA expression of Na+/H+ exchangers and Na+/Ca2+ exchangers, as well as the melanosome pH levels were examined. Propylparaben decreased gene expression in both exchangers. It was confirmed that propylparaben decreased melanosomal pH by staining using an intracellular pH indicator. The results suggest that propylparaben down-regulated melanin production through acidification of melanosomes.
Earth Observation for Citizen Science Validation, or Citizen Science for Earth Observation Validation? The Role of Quality Assurance of Volunteered Observations
Authors: Leibovici Didier , Williams Jamie , Rosser Julian , Hodges Crona , Chapman Colin , Higgins Chris , Jackson Mike
Published: October 2017

Environmental policy involving citizen science (CS) is of growing interest. In support of this open data stream of information, validation or quality assessment of the CS geo-located data to their appropriate usage for evidence-based policy making needs a flexible and easily adaptable data curation process ensuring transparency. Addressing these needs, this paper describes an approach for automatic quality assurance as proposed by the Citizen OBservatory WEB (COBWEB) FP7 project. This approach is based upon a workflow composition that combines different quality controls, each belonging to seven categories or “pillars”. Each pillar focuses on a specific dimension in the types of reasoning algorithms for CS data qualification. These pillars attribute values to a range of quality elements belonging to three complementary quality models. Additional data from various sources, such as Earth Observation (EO) data, are often included as part of the inputs of quality controls within the pillars. However, qualified CS data can also contribute to the validation of EO data. Therefore, the question of validation can be considered as “two sides of the same coin”. Based on an invasive species CS study, concerning Fallopia japonica (Japanese knotweed), the paper discusses the flexibility and usefulness of qualifying CS data, either when using an EO data product for the validation within the quality assurance process, or validating an EO data product that describes the risk of occurrence of the plant. Both validation paths are found to be improved by quality assurance of the CS data. Addressing the reliability of CS open data, issues and limitations of the role of quality assurance for validation, due to the quality of secondary data used within the automatic workflow, are described, e.g., error propagation, paving the route to improvements in the approach.
An Overview of Dietary Interventions and Strategies to Optimize the Management of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Perumpail Brandon J. , Cholankeril Rosann , Yoo Eric R. , Kim Donghee , Ahmed Aijaz
Published: October 2017

Aim: To investigate the efficacy of lifestyle adjustment strategies as a preventive measure and/or treatment of obesity-related non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in adults. Method: A systematic review of literature through 1 July 2017 on the PubMed Database was performed. A comprehensive search was conducted using key terms, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), combined with lifestyle intervention, diet, and exercise. All of the articles and studies obtained from the search were reviewed. Redundant literature was excluded. Results: Several types of dietary compositions and exercise techniques were identified. Most studies concluded and recommended reduction in the intake of saturated and trans fatty acids, carbohydrates, and animal-based protein, and increased intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), plant-based proteins, antioxidants, and other nutrients was recommended. The Mediterranean and Paleo diet both seem to be promising schemes for NAFLD patients to follow. Exercise was also encouraged, but the type of exercise did not affect its efficacy as a NAFLD treatment when the duration is consistent. Conclusions: Although these different dietary strategies and exercise regimens can be adopted to treat NAFLD, current literature on the topic is limited in scope. Further research should be conducted to truly elucidate which lifestyle adjustments individually, and in combination, may facilitate patients with obesity-related NAFLD.
Post-Logging Estimation of Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda) Stump Size, Area and Population Using Imagery from a Small Unmanned Aerial System
Authors: Samiappan Sathishkumar , Turnage Gray , McCraine Cary , Skidmore Joshua , Hathcock Lee , Moorhead Robert
Published: October 2017

This study describes an unmanned aerial system (UAS) method for accurately estimating the number and diameters of harvested Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda) stumps in a final harvest (often referred as clear-cut) situation. The study methods are potentially useful in initial detection, quantification of area and volume estimation of legal or illegal logging events to help estimate the volumes and value of removed pine timber. The study sites used included three adjacent pine stands in East-Central Mississippi. Using image pattern recognition algorithms, results show a counting accuracy of 77.3% and RMSE of 4.3 cm for stump diameter estimation. The study also shows that the area can be accurately estimated from the UAS collected data. Our experimental study shows that the proposed UAS survey method has the potential for wide use as a monitoring or investigation tool in the forestry and land management industries.
Using a Collaborative Assessment Design to Support Student Learning
Authors: Kennedy-Clark Shannon , Kearney Sean , Galstaun Vilma
Published: October 2017

The purpose of the study was to try to develop an understanding of how groups of pre-service teachers organised, planned and built two information and communication technologies (ICT) resources using a learn-technology-by-design framework. The benefits for students in using a learn-by-design approach have been well researched, and the research has covered a broad range of research streams. A design-based research approach underpins the research. This paper presents the observational data, which was collected in an ICT in the Education unit of study. The collaborative design assessment provided pre-service teachers with the opportunity to collaboratively build an Interactive Whiteboard (IWB) resources and a web-based teaching (website) resource. In this study, seven groups were observed while they engaged in a long-term collaboration and completed two group assessment tasks. The results suggest that students needed both guidance and time to develop their skills in collaboration. While there were variations in the collaborative patterns, these variations did not impact the success of the groups in the development of their ICT resources.
Advances in Electronics Prompt a Fresh Look at Continuous Wave (CW) Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)
Authors: Newton Michael , Breeds Edward , Morris Robert
Published: October 2017

Continuous Wave Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (CW-NMR) was a popular method for sample interrogation at the birth of magnetic resonance but has since been overlooked by most in favor of the now more popular pulsed techniques. CW-NMR requires relatively simple electronics although, for most designs, the execution is critical to the successful implementation and sensitivity of the system. For decades there have been reports in the literature from academic groups showing the potential of magnetic resonance relaxation time measurements in industrial applications such as the production of food and drink. However, the cost, complexity and power consumption of pulsed techniques have largely consigned these to the literature. Advances in electronics and developments in permanent magnet technology now require a fresh look at CW-NMR to see if it is capable of providing cost effective industrial solutions. In this article, we review the electronics that are needed to undertake a continuous wave NMR experiment starting with early designs and journeying through the literature to understand the basic designs and limitations. We then review the more recent developments in this area and present an outlook for future work in the hope that more of the scientific community will take a fresh look at CW-NMR as a viable and powerful low-cost measurement technique.
Galvanically Decoupled Current Source Modules for Multi-Channel Bioimpedance Measurement Systems
Authors: Kusche Roman , Hauschild Sebastian , Ryschka Martin
Published: October 2017

Bioimpedance measurements have become a useful technique in the past several years in biomedical engineering. Especially, multi-channel measurements facilitate new imaging and patient monitoring techniques. While most instrumentation research has focused on signal acquisition and signal processing, this work proposes the design of an excitation current source module that can be easily implemented in existing or upcoming bioimpedance measurement systems. It is galvanically isolated to enable simultaneous multi-channel bioimpedance measurements with a very low channel-coupling. The system is based on a microcontroller in combination with a voltage-controlled current source circuit. It generates selectable sinusoidal excitation signals between 0.12 and 1.5 mA in a frequency range from 12 to 250 kHz, whereas the voltage compliance range is ±3.2 V. The coupling factor between two current sources, experimentally galvanically connected with each other, is measured to be less than −48 dB over the entire intended frequency range. Finally, suggestions for developments in the future are made.
Fire Effects on Historical Wildfire Refugia in Contemporary Wildfires
Authors: Kolden Crystal , Bleeker Tyler , Smith Alistair , Poulos Helen , Camp Ann
Published: October 2017

Wildfire refugia are forest patches that are minimally-impacted by fire and provide critical habitats for fire-sensitive species and seed sources for post-fire forest regeneration. Wildfire refugia are relatively understudied, particularly concerning the impacts of subsequent fires on existing refugia. We opportunistically re-visited 122 sites classified in 1994 for a prior fire refugia study, which were burned by two wildfires in 2012 in the Cascade mountains of central Washington, USA. We evaluated the fire effects for historically persistent fire refugia and compared them to the surrounding non-refugial forest matrix. Of 122 total refugial (43 plots) and non-refugial (79 plots) sites sampled following the 2012 wildfires, one refugial and five non-refugial plots did not burn in 2012. Refugial sites burned more severely and experienced higher tree mortality than non-refugial plots, potentially due to the greater amount of time since the last fire, producing higher fuel accumulation. Although most sites maintained the pre-fire development stage, 19 percent of sites transitioned to Early development and 31 percent of sites converted from Closed to Open canopy. These structural transitions may contribute to forest restoration in fire-adapted forests where fire has been excluded for over a century, but this requires further analysis.
Polymer/Carbon Nanotubes (CNT) Nanocomposites Processing Using Additive Manufacturing (Three-Dimensional Printing) Technique: An Overview
Authors: Ghoshal Sushanta
Published: October 2017

Additive manufacturing (AM)/3D printing (3DP) is a revolutionary technology which has been around for more than two decades, although the potential of this technique was not fully explored until recently. Because of the expansion of this technology in recent years, new materials and additives are being searched for to meet the growing demand. 3DP allows accurate fabrication of complicated models, however, structural anisotropy caused by the 3DP approaches could limit robust application. A possible solution to the inferior properties of the 3DP based materials compared to that of conventionally manufactured counterparts could be the incorporation of nanoparticles, such as carbon nanotubes (CNT) which have demonstrated remarkable mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties. In this article we review some of the research, products, and challenges involved in 3DP technology. The importance of CNT dispersion in the matrix polymer is highlighted and the future outlook for the 3D printed polymer/CNT nanocomposites is presented.
Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulations of Gas-Phase Radial Dispersion in Fixed Beds with Wall Effects
Authors: Dixon Anthony G. , Medeiros Nicholas J.
Published: October 2017

The effective medium approach to radial fixed bed dispersion models, in which radial dispersion of mass is superimposed on axial plug flow, is based on a constant effective dispersion coefficient, DT. For packed beds of a small tube-to-particle diameter ratio (N), the experimentally-observed decrease in this parameter near the tube wall is accounted for by a lumped resistance located at the tube wall, the wall mass transfer coefficient km. This work presents validated computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to obtain detailed radial velocity and concentration profiles for eight different computer-generated packed tubes of spheres in the range 5.04 ≤ N ≤ 9.3 and over a range of flow rates 87 ≤ Re ≤ 870 where Re is based on superficial velocity and the particle diameter dp. Initial runs with pure air gave axial velocity profiles vz(r) averaged over the length of the packing. Then, simulations with the tube wall coated with methane yielded radial concentration profiles. A model with only DT could not describe the radial concentration profiles. The two-parameter model with DT and km agreed better with the bed-center concentration profiles, but not with the sharp decreases in concentration close to the tube wall. A three-parameter model based on classical two-layer mixing length theory, with a wall-function for the decrease in transverse radial convective transport in the near-wall region, showed greatly improved ability to reproduce the near-wall concentration profiles.
Curcumin: A Review of Its Effects on Human Health
Authors: Hewlings Susan , Kalman Douglas
Published: October 2017

Turmeric, a spice that has long been recognized for its medicinal properties, has received interest from both the medical/scientific world and from culinary enthusiasts, as it is the major source of the polyphenol curcumin. It aids in the management of oxidative and inflammatory conditions, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, anxiety, and hyperlipidemia. It may also help in the management of exercise-induced inflammation and muscle soreness, thus enhancing recovery and performance in active people. In addition, a relatively low dose of the complex can provide health benefits for people that do not have diagnosed health conditions. Most of these benefits can be attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Ingesting curcumin by itself does not lead to the associated health benefits due to its poor bioavailability, which appears to be primarily due to poor absorption, rapid metabolism, and rapid elimination. There are several components that can increase bioavailability. For example, piperine is the major active component of black pepper and, when combined in a complex with curcumin, has been shown to increase bioavailability by 2000%. Curcumin combined with enhancing agents provides multiple health benefits. The purpose of this review is to provide a brief overview of the plethora of research regarding the health benefits of curcumin.