bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Auxiliary energy assisted friction stir welding – status review
Authors: Padhy G. K. , Wu C. S. , Gao S.
Published: June 2015

The present article introduces the auxiliary energy assisted friction stir welding (FSW) processes purported to overcome the shortcomings of the conventional FSW process. The auxiliary energies used for this purpose are thermal energy from electric resistance heat, induction heat, laser, plasma, arc, etc. and mechanical energy in the form of ultrasonic vibration. The state-of-the-art, experimentation and progresses in these FSW variants are surveyed and compiled. The auxiliary energy assisted FSW processes exhibit great promise by having numerous advantages over the conventional FSW in terms improved process window, heat generation, material flow, reduced load on the tools and mechanical properties of joints. Such remarkable advantages would lead these processes to redefine many global technologies and markets in the twenty-first century. However, these variants are still in their preliminary stages of investigation, and more systematic investigations are necessary for their critical assessment. In this aspect, some unsolved issues and challenges are overlooked.
Distinct morphology of keyhole wall during high power fibre laser deep penetration welding
Authors: Zou J. L. , Wu S. K. , He Y. , Yang W. X. , Xu J. J. , Xiao R. S.
Published: June 2015

The keyhole wall is the interaction interface between the laser and the material during the laser deep penetration welding. Measuring the morphology of the keyhole wall is thus of significance for understanding the high power fibre laser deep penetration welding process. In this paper, the clear keyhole wall was reserved by suddenly closing laser during high power fibre laser welding of copper alloy. The results indicate that the keyhole can be divided into laser action region and metallic vapour pressure maintenance region. The laser action region is on the front wall of keyhole, and a series of concentric elliptical rings are observed in this region. In another region, its diameter is significantly larger than the spot diameter and the keyhole wall is basically smooth. The results are different from those generally accepted viewpoints, which clarify the flowing law of molten fluid in the keyhole and are thus of great guiding significance for optimising the welding technology.
Effect of microstructure and defects on fatigue behaviour of directed energy deposited Ti–6Al–4V
Authors: Prabhu A. W. , Vincent T. , Chaudhary A. , Zhang W. , Babu S. S.
Published: June 2015

The fatigue behaviour of laser engineered net shaping (LENS) deposited Ti–6Al–4V is studied in the as built condition. The fatigue properties are measured, and the influence of microstructure and physical defects on fatigue performance is analysed through microscopy and fractography. Fine basketweave microstructure is obtained using a substrate with large equiaxed grains. The presence and location of unmelted particles are observed to significantly affect fatigue life. On the other hand, smaller gas porosity is not found to have major effect on the fatigue life. Further, the fatigue properties in a ‘repair’ condition are evaluated through samples consisting of LENS deposited parts joined to a preexisting wrought part. The properties are compared with the as built LENS parts.
Polycomb repressive complex 2 component Suz12 is required for hematopoietic stem cell function and lymphopoiesis
Authors: Lee Stanley C. W. , Miller Sarah , Hyland Craig , Kauppi Maria , Lebois Marion , Di Rago Ladina , Metcalf Donald , Kinkel Sarah A. , Josefsson Emma C. , Blewitt Marnie E. , Majewski Ian J. , Alexander Warren S.
Published: June 2015

Key Points

Inactivation of Suz12 results in a rapid and marked exhaustion of the HSC pool. Lymphoid development is completely dependent on PRC2, but numerous myeloid lineages develop in the absence of PRC2.
Supported self-management for asthma
Authors: Pinnock Hilary
Published: June 2015

Key points

Self-management education in asthma is not an optional extra. Healthcare professionals have a responsibility to ensure that everyone with asthma has personalised advice to enable them to optimise how they self-manage their condition.

Overviews of the extensive evidence-base conclude that asthma self-management supported by regular professional review, improves asthma control, reduces exacerbations and admissions, and improves quality of life.

Self-management education should be reinforced by a written personalised asthma action plan which provides a summary of the regular management strategy, how to recognise deterioration and the action to take.

Successful implementation combines education for patients, skills training for professionals in the context of an organisation committed to both the concept and the practice of supported self-management.

Educational aims

To summarise the evidence base underpinning supported self-management for asthma

To provide clinicians with a practical approach to providing supported self-management for asthma

To suggest an appropriate strategy for implementing supported self-management

The evidence in favour of supported self-management for asthma is overwhelming. Self-management including provision of a written asthma action plan and supported by regular medical review, almost halves the risk of hospitalisation, significantly reduces emergency department attendances and unscheduled consultations, and improves markers of asthma control and quality of life. Demographic and cultural tailoring enables effective programmes to be implemented in deprived and/or ethnic communities or within schools.

A crucial component of effective asthma self-management interventions is the provision of an agreed, written personalised action plan which advises on using regular medication, recognising deterioration and appropriate action to take. Monitoring can be based on symptoms or on peak flows and should specify thresholds for action including increasing inhaled steroids, commencing oral steroids, and when (and how) to seek professional help. Plans should be personalised to reflect asthma severity and treatment regimes, avoidance of triggers, co-morbid rhinitis and the individual’s preferences.

Implementation is a challenge. Systematic review evidence suggests that it is possible to implement asthma self-management in routine care, but that to be effective this requires a whole systems approach which considers implementation from the perspective of patient education and resources, professional skills and motivation and organisation priorities and routines.
Physiological basis of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation in patients with lung or heart disease
Authors: Louvaris Zafeiris , Vogiatzis Ioannis
Published: June 2015

Educational Aims

To illustrate the common mechanisms limiting exercise tolerance in patients with chronic lung and heart disease

To highlight the impact of lung and heart disease on daily physical activity levels

To outline the effects of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation on functional capacity in patients with chronic lung and heart disease

To discuss an innovative tele-rehabilitation intervention using information and communications technologies to improve functional capacity in patients with chronic lung and heart disease

Shortness of breath associated with cardiorespiratory abnormalities and peripheral muscle discomfort are the major factors that limit exercise capacity in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and those with congestive heart failure (CHF). Both of these symptoms negatively impact on patients’ daily physical activity levels. In turn, poor daily physical activity is commonly associated with increased rates of morbidity and mortality. Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programmes partially reverse muscle weakness and dysfunction and increase functional capacity in both COPD and CHF. However, benefits gained from participation in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programmes are regressing soon after the completion of these programmes. Moreover, several barriers limit access and uptake of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programmes by eligible patients. A potential solution to the underutilisation of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation is the implementation of tele-rehabilitation interventions at home using information and communications technologies. Thus, tele-rehabilitation may be useful to encourage and educate patients with COPD or CHF on how best to maintain and/or further enhance daily physical activity levels.
How to carry out a field walking test in chronic respiratory disease
Authors: Holland Anne E. , Spruit Martijn A. , Singh Sally J.
Published: June 2015

Educational Aims

To provide recommendations for conducting field walking tests in people with chronic respiratory disease, from the new European Respiratory Society/American Thoracic Society Technical Standard

To provide information to assist in selecting a field walking test in people with chronic respiratory disease.

Key points

The 6MWT, ISWT and ESWT are valid and reliable tests of functional exercise capacity in people with COPD. The 6MWT is also widely used in other chronic respiratory disorders.

There is a learning effect for the 6MWT and ISWT, so two tests must be performed if the tests are being used to measure change over time, with the best distance recorded.

The 6MWT is very sensitive to changes in the way it is conducted, including use of encouragement, provision of supplemental oxygen, changes in track layout and length, and use of wheeled walkers. These factors should be held constant when the test is repeated.

The 6MWT, ISWT and ESWT are strenuous tests, with cardiorespiratory responses that are similar to those during a maximal incremental exercise test. As a result, the contraindications and precautions for these field walking tests should be the same as for a laboratory-based incremental exercise test.

The European Respiratory Society (ERS) and American Thoracic Society (ATS) have recently published a Technical Standard which documents the standard operating procedures for the 6-min walk test (6MWT), incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) and endurance shuttle walk test (ESWT). The Technical Standard shows that all three tests are valid and reliable measures of functional exercise capacity in people with chronic respiratory disease and makes recommendations for standardising their performance. Key findings and recommendations of the Technical Standard include:

The 6MWT, ISWT and ESWT are strenuous tests which elicit cardiorespiratory responses that are similar to those observed during a maximal incremental exercise test. As a result, the contraindications and precautions for field walking tests should be consistent with those used for a laboratory-based incremental exercise test.

There is strong evidence of a learning effect for the 6MWT and ISWT. Two tests should be performed when the 6MWT or ISWT are used to measure change over time.

The 6MWT, ISWT and ESWT are responsive to treatment effects in people with chronic respiratory disease, particularly for rehabilitation.

The 6MWT is very sensitive to variations in methodology, including use of encouragement, provision of supplemental oxygen, changes in track layout and length, and use of wheeled walkers. These factors should be documented and held constant on repeat testing.

The lowestSpO2recorded during a 6MWT is an important marker of disease severity and prognosis. Continuous pulse oximetry is recommended during the 6MWT, to ensure that the lowestSpO2is recorded.

In adults with chronic respiratory disease, a change in 6-min walk distance of 30 m or more indicates a clinically significant change has occurred.
SmileFinder: a resampling-based approach to evaluate signatures of selection from genome-wide sets of matching allele frequency data in two or more diploid populations
Authors: Guiblet Wilfried M , Zhao Kai , O'Brien Stephen J , Massey Steven E , Roca Alfred L , Oleksyk Taras K
Published: June 2015

Background

Adaptive alleles may rise in frequency as a consequence of positive selection, creating a pattern of decreased variation in the neighboring loci, known as a selective sweep. When the region containing this pattern is compared to another population with no history of selection, a rise in variance of allele frequencies between populations is observed. One challenge presented by large genome-wide datasets is the ability to differentiate between patterns that are remnants of natural selection from those expected to arise at random and/or as a consequence of selectively neutral demographic forces acting in the population.

Findings

SmileFinder is a simple program that looks for diversity and divergence patterns consistent with selection sweeps by evaluating allele frequencies in windows, including neighboring loci from two or more populations of a diploid species against the genome-wide neutral expectation. The program calculates the mean of heterozygosity and FST in a set of sliding windows of incrementally increasing sizes, and then builds a resampled distribution (the baseline) of random multi-locus sets matched to the sizes of sliding windows, using an unrestricted sampling. Percentiles of the values in the sliding windows are derived from the superimposed resampled distribution. The resampling can easily be scaled from 1 K to 100 M; the higher the number, the more precise the percentiles ascribed to the extreme observed values.

Conclusions

The output from SmileFinder can be used to plot percentile values to look for population diversity and divergence patterns that may suggest past actions of positive selection along chromosome maps, and to compare lists of suspected candidate genes under random gene sets to test for the overrepresentation of these patterns among gene categories. Both applications of the algorithm have already been used in published studies. Here we present a publicly available, open source program that will serve as a useful tool for preliminary scans of selection using worldwide databases of human genetic variation, as well as population datasets for many non-human species, from which such data is rapidly emerging with the advent of new genotyping and sequencing technologies.
Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccination in rheumatoid arthritis patients receiving tacrolimus
Authors: Migita Kiyoshi , Akeda Yukihiro , Akazawa Manabu , Tohma Shigeto , Hirano Fuminori , Ideguchi Haruko , Matsumura Ryutaro , Suematsu Eiichi , Miyamura Tomoya , Mori Shunsuke , Fukui Takahiro , Izumi Yasumori , Iwanaga Nozomi , Tsutani Hiroshi , Saisyo Kouichirou , Yamanaka Takao , Ohshima Shiro , Sugiyama Takao , Kawabe Yojiro , Katayama Masao , Suenaga Yasuo , Okamoto Akira , Ohshima Hisaji , Okada Yasumasa , Ichikawa Kenji , Yoshizawa Shigeru , Kawakami Kenji , Matsui Toshihiro , Furukawa Hiroshi , Oishi Kazunori
Published: June 2015

Introduction

In rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients receiving immunosuppressive treatments, vaccination against Streptococcus pneumoniae is recommended. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of tacrolimus (TAC) on immune response following administration of a 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) in patients with established RA.

Methods

Patients with RA (n = 133) were vaccinated with PPSV23. Patients were classified into TAC (n = 29), methotrexate (MTX) (n = 55), control (n = 35), and TAC/MTX (n = 14) treatment groups. We measured the concentrations of pneumococcal serotypes 6B and 23F by using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and determined antibody functionality by using a multiplexed opsonophagocytic killing assay, reported as the opsonization index (OI), before and 4 to 6 weeks after vaccination. A positive antibody response was defined as at least a twofold increase in the IgG concentration or as at least a 10-fold increase in the OI.

Results

IgG concentrations and OIs were significantly increased in all treatment groups after PPSV23 vaccination. The TAC treatment group appears to respond in a manner similar to that of the RA control group in terms of 6B and 23F serotype concentration and function. In contrast, the MTX group had the lowest immune response. Patients who received a combination of TAC and MTX (TAC/MTX) also had a diminished immune response compared with those who received TAC alone.

Conclusions

TAC monotherapy does not appear to impair PPSV23 immunogenicity in patients with RA, whereas antibody production and function may be reduced when TAC is used with MTX. Thus, PPSV23 administration during ongoing TAC treatment should be encouraged for infection-prone TAC-treated patients with rheumatic diseases.

Trial registration

University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry: UMIN000009566. Registered 12 December 2012.
Effect of bite force in occlusal adjustment of dental implants on the distribution of occlusal pressure: comparison among three bite forces in occlusal adjustment
Authors: Kayumi Sho , Takayama Yoshiyuki , Yokoyama Atsuro , Ueda Nana
Published: June 2015

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of occlusal forces (the contractile force of masticatory muscles) exerted during occlusal adjustment on the distribution of the forces among teeth, implants, and temporomandibular joints (TMJs) in intercuspal clenching in cases with bilateral missing molars and premolars by using finite element analysis.

Methods

A three-dimensional finite element model of the mandible with eight implants in the premolar and molar regions was constructed. Linearly elastic material properties were defined for all elements except the periodontal ligament, which was defined as nonlinearly elastic. The TMJs and antagonists were simplified and replaced with nonlinear springs. Antagonists were assumed to be natural teeth or implants and had two- or three-stage displaceability. We constructed finite element (FE) models in which occlusal adjustment with three kinds of occlusal force (40 N as a light bite, 200 N as a hard bite, and 400 N as a maximum biting force) was performed. The clearance by occlusal adjustment was decided beforehand with a trial-and-error method so that the occlusal forces were distributed similarly to the distribution of the natural dentition. Each model was evaluated under loads of 40, 100, 200, 400, and 800 N to determine the distribution of occlusal forces on the teeth and implants.

Results

The occlusal forces were concentrated on the most posterior implants while the load was larger, and the percentage of bearing force at the TMJ was small, and vice versa.

Conclusions

Maximum biting force was better for occlusal adjustment to prevent overloading of the most posterior implant.
Postprandial Protein Handling Is Not Impaired in Type 2 Diabetes Patients When Compared With Normoglycemic Controls
Authors: Kouw Imre W. K. , Gorissen Stefan H. M. , Burd Nicholas A. , Cermak Naomi M. , Gijsen Annemarie P. , van Kranenburg Janneau , van Loon Luc J. C.
Published: June 2015

Context:

The progressive loss of muscle mass with aging is accelerated in type 2 diabetes patients. It has been suggested that this is attributed to a blunted muscle protein synthetic response to food intake.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to test the hypothesis that the muscle protein synthetic response to protein ingestion is impaired in older type 2 diabetes patients when compared with healthy, normoglycemic controls.

Design:

A clinical intervention study with two parallel groups was conducted between August 2011 and July 2012.

Setting:

The study was conducted at the research unit of Maastricht University, The Netherlands.

Intervention, Participants, and Main Outcome Measures:

Eleven older type 2 diabetes males [diabetes; age 71 ± 1 y, body mass index (BMI) 26.2 ± 0.5 kg/m2] and 12 age- and BMI-matched normoglycemic controls (control; age 74 ± 1 y, BMI 24.8 ± 1.1 kg/m2) participated in an experiment in which they ingested 20 g intrinsically L-[1-13C]phenylalanine-labeled protein. Continuous iv L-[ring-2H5]phenylalanine infusion was applied, and blood and muscle samples were obtained to assess amino acid kinetics and muscle protein synthesis rates in the postabsorptive and postprandial state.

Results:

Plasma insulin concentrations increased after protein ingestion in both groups, with a greater rise in the diabetes group. Postabsorptive and postprandial muscle protein synthesis rates did not differ between groups and averaged 0.029 ± 0.003 vs 0.029 ± 0.003%/h1 and 0.031 ± 0.002 vs 0.033 ± 0.002%/h1 in the diabetes versus control group, respectively. Postprandial L-[1-13C]phenylalanine incorporation into muscle protein did not differ between groups (0.018 ± 0.001 vs 0.019 ± 0.002 mole percent excess, respectively).

Conclusions:

Postabsorptive muscle protein synthesis and postprandial protein handling is not impaired in older individuals with type 2 diabetes when compared with age-matched, normoglycemic controls.
DICER Inactivation Identifies Pancreatic β-Cell “Disallowed” Genes Targeted by MicroRNAs
Authors: Martinez-Sanchez Aida , Nguyen-Tu Marie-Sophie , Rutter Guy A.
Published: June 2015

Pancreatic β-cells are the body's sole source of circulating insulin and essential for the maintenance of blood glucose homeostasis. Levels of up to 66 “disallowed” genes, which are strongly expressed and play housekeeping roles in most other mammalian tissues, are unusually low in β-cells. The molecular mechanisms involved in repressing these genes are largely unknown. Here, we explore the role in gene disallowance of microRNAs (miRNAs), a type of small noncoding RNAs that silence gene expression at the posttranscriptional level and are essential for β-cell development and function. To selectively deplete miRNAs from adult β-cells, the miRNA-processing enzyme DICER was inactivated by deletion of the RNase III domain with a tamoxifen-inducible Pdx1CreER transgene. In this model, β-cell dysfunction was apparent 2 weeks after recombination and preceded a decrease in insulin content and loss of β-cell mass. Of the 14 disallowed genes studied, quantitative RT-quantitative real-time PCR revealed that 6 genes (Fcgrt, Igfbp4, Maf, Oat, Pdgfra, and Slc16a1) were up-regulated (1.4- to 2.1-fold, P < .05) at this early stage. Expression of luciferase constructs bearing the 3′-untranslated regions of the corresponding mRNAs in wild-type or DICER-null β-cells demonstrated that Fcgrt, Oat, and Pdgfra are miRNA direct targets. We thus reveal a role for miRNAs in the regulation of disallowed genes in β-cells and provide evidence for a novel means through which noncoding RNAs control the functional identity of these cells independently of actions on β-cell mass.
Adsorptive Square Wave Voltammetric Determination of Acyclovir and Its Application in a Pharmacokinetic Study Using a Novel Sensor of β-Cyclodextrin Modified Pencil Graphite Electrode
Authors: Saleh Gamal A , Askal Hassan F , Refaat Ibrahim H , Abdel-aal Fatma A M
Published: June 2015

An electrochemical sensor for acyclovir (ACV) based on polymerization of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) on electrochemically pretreated pencil graphite electrode (PGE) was built for the first time. A synergistic effect of β-CD was used to construct this sensor for quantification of this important drug. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images show that polymer of β-CD has been successfully modified on the electrode. Square wave voltammetry (SWV) exhibited two linear dynamic ranges of 5 × 10−8 to 6 × 10−7 M and 1 × 10−6 to 9 × 10−6 M of ACV for its oxidation and the detection limit was found to be as low as 7.59 × 10−9 M of ACV. The parameters affecting ACV oxidation were investigated. The prepared electrodes showed good fabrication reproducibility. The analytical applications of the prepared electrodes were tested by using ACV dosage forms and human urine as a real sample. The SWV analysis has been successfully applied to pharmacokinetic studies of ACV in health human volunteers after oral administration of a single dose of Zovirax suspension (400 mg/5 mL).
Synthesis and Aqueous Solution Behavior of Thermosensitive Poly(leucine-co-lactic acid)-block-PEG-block-Poly(leucine-co-lactic acid) Block Copolymer
Authors: Zhu Meng , Zhou Mi , Liu Yu , Hao Jianyuan
Published: June 2015

A new thermosensitive block copolymer poly(leucine-co-lactic acid)-block-poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(leucine-co-lactic acid) [P(L-co-LA)-b-PEG-b-P(L-co-LA)] was prepared through chain end esterification between poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and poly(leucine-co-lactic acid) [P(L-co-LA)] copolymer. The block copolymer has controllable molecular weight with narrow molecular weight distribution. By the adjustment of hydrophobic block length, the copolymer aqueous solution underwent a sol-to-gel transition as the temperature increased from 25 to 30 °C.
Novel Nanodispersed Polymer Complex, Poly(nickel 1,1,2,2-ethenetetrathiolate): Preparation and Hybridization for n-Type of Organic Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Oshima Keisuke , Shiraishi Yukihide , Toshima Naoki
Published: June 2015

Although the polymer complex, poly(nickel 1,1,2,2-ethenetetrathiolate) (Ni-PETT), is an interesting n-type organic thermoelectric material, it is insoluble in all kinds of solvents. We prepared nanoparticles of Ni-PETT (n-Ni-PETTs) using a surfactant, dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide, as an additive during the synthesis of the polymer complex. The n-Ni-PETTs were well dispersed in an organic solvent like N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, and could provide smooth, tough, and flexible n-type thermoelectric films by hybridization with poly(vinyl chloride).
Removal, Separation, and Recovery of Mixed Ionic Dyes by Solvent Extraction Using Reverse Micellar Systems
Authors: Yi Shixiong , Sun Sheng , Dai Fangyin
Published: June 2015

The mixed ionic dyes anionic Color Index (CI) Reactive Blue 19 and cationic CI Basic Red 14 in aqueous solution were removed and separated by solvent extraction using reverse micellar systems. The results obtained by ultraviolet–visible spectra indicated that the dyes could be removed totally for the attractive force between dyes and counter-ionic surfactant. The recovered dyes were reused for dyeing fibers, which exhibited good dyeing property.
Thermodynamic Modeling for CO2 Adsorption on Activated Carbon at Low Partial Pressure
Authors: Teng Yang , Liu Zhilin , Zhang Kai , Chen Honggang , Yang Yongping
Published: June 2015

The determination of adsorption thermodynamics at low CO2 partial pressure is of great significance. The Langmuir–Freundlich model is used to fit the adsorption isotherms of activated carbon (AC) and amine-modified AC. The isosteric heat and average heat of CO2 adsorption on AC are calculated. The result could benefit the subsequent process development and equipment energy optimization.
Polymerization of a Disubstituted Acetylene Using Palladium Catalysts
Authors: Rodriguez-Castanon Jesus , Murayama Yukako , Sano Natsuhiro , Sanda Fumio
Published: June 2015

Novel palladium complexes bearing a di-tert-butyl(4-substituted phenyl)phosphine ligand were synthesized and employed as catalysts for the polymerization of 1-chloro-2-(4-tert-butylphenyl)acetylene. Polymers were obtained as THF-soluble (weight-average molecular weights: 5100–59800) and insoluble parts, which were considered to be lower and higher molecular weight polyacetylenes. The catalytic activity increased as increasing the electron-withdrawing character of the substituent on the phosphine ligand.
Langmuir Adsorption on Fractal Surfaces
Authors: Kutarov Volodymyr V. , Yu L. Zub , Robens Erich , Jayaweera Shanath Amarasiri A.
Published: June 2015

We developed two new methods for analyzing the fractal characteristics of adsorbents. In the first method, the fractal dimension of the adsorbent is determined based on the Hurst index (H) calculated for the random process of development of the Langmuir isotherm. In the second method, the Langmuir isotherm is calculated from measurements of the random field of the adsorbed molecules. Then the fractal dimension is determined. using the proposed methods, we calculated the fractal dimensions of samples of xerogel at low-temperature nitrogen adsorption, lunar regolith sample at a low temperature of krypton and n-heptanes, and water vapour adsorption at ambient temperature.
Adsorption of Atenolol on Talc: An Indication of Drug Interference with an Excipient
Authors: Li Zhaohui , Fitzgerald Nicole M. , Lv Guocheng , Jiang Wei-Teh , Wu Limei
Published: June 2015

Talc is commonly used as an excipient for drug formulations. The general expectation is that the excipient should have only minimal interactions with the carrying drug. In this study, the adsorption of atenolol (AT), a β-blocker, on talc, a clay mineral of pH-dependent surface charge, was evaluated under different physicochemical conditions such as the initial AT concentration, equilibrium time, solution pH, ionic strength and temperature. Our experiments showed that talc had an AT adsorption capacity of 11 mmol/kg. In addition, adsorption of AT on talc was instantaneous, which suggests that the adsorption sites were located on the external surfaces or edges. Factors such as solution pH, ionic strength and temperature all had minimal influence on AT adsorption, although the adsorption process was exothermic and the free energy of adsorption was negative, indicating weak physical adsorption. The Fourier transform infrared results showed blue shifts of the bands corresponding to δ(C–OH) at 1410 and 1043 cm−1, indicating hydrogen bonding for the uptake of AT on talc surfaces or edges.
Mining Dump Truck Noise Sources and Mitigation Approaches
Authors: Azimi M. , Shafaei S. M.
Published: June 2015

In order to reduce noise-induced hearing loss from work-related noise exposure, mine workers, union representatives, mine managers, equipment manufacturers must work in partnership to successfully construct and implement new and better noise controls. On new machines, cabin noise levels are not normally a problem. Insulation around engines and fans greatly reduces noise and sound-proofing of the cab can keep operator exposure well below 85 dB(A). In other words, over time, exposure to noise levels at or above 85 decibels can lead to permanent hearing loss. However, the benefits of soundproofing will be lost if windows and doors are not kept closed and low noise output air-conditioning units might be needed.

This article is concerned with the main sources of noise in dump trucks used for mining application and also the noise reduction methodologies.
A Computer‐aided Method for Improving the Reliability of Lenke Classification for Scoliosis
Authors: Zhang Junhua , Li Hongjian , Lv Liang , Shi Xinling , Guo Fei , Zhang Yufeng
Published: June 2015

Classification of the spinal curve pattern is crucial for assessment and treatment of scoliosis. We developed a computer‐aided system to improve the reliability of three components of the Lenke classification. The system semi‐automatically measured the Cobb angles and identified the apical lumbar vertebra and its pedicles on digitized radiographs. The system then classified the curve type, lumbar modifier, and thoracic sagittal modifier of the Lenke classification based on the computerized measurements and identifications. The system was tested by five operators for 62 scoliotic cases. The kappa statistic was used to assess the reliability. With the aid of computer, the average intra‐ and interobserver kappa values were improved to 0.89 and 0.81 for the curve type, to 0.83 and 0.81 for the lumbar modifier, and to 0.94 and 0.92 for the sagittal modifier of the Lenke classification, respectively, relative to the classification by two of the operators without the aid of computer. Results indicate that the computerized system can improve reliability for all three components of the Lenke classification.
Backrest Shape Affects Head–Neck Alignment and Seated Pressure
Authors: Ukita Atsuki , Nishimura Shigeo , Kishigami Hirotoshi , Hatta Tatsuo
Published: June 2015

Unstable back support against gravity results in a forward head posture and contributes to buttocks pressure ulcers. However, the association between these health problems and a wheelchair backrest is unclear. Our newly developed wheelchair (N‐WC) supports the back of the pelvis and thorax from obliquely underneath. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of different backrest shapes on head–neck alignment and seated pressure. Data from 28 healthy subjects were analyzed. Outcome measures were head–neck alignment angles, support angles of the backrest, and pressure distributions on the supporting surfaces. Compared with a typical wheelchair that has a flat backrest, the seat pressure decreased and the center of pressure was located in the middle of both the seat and backrest in the N‐WC. Moreover, the head–neck alignment when seated in the N‐WC was upright. These results highlight the importance of the shape of the wheelchair backrest.
Mechanical Model of Traditional Thai Massage for Integrated Healthcare
Authors: Rattanaphan Salinee , Srichandr Panya
Published: June 2015

In this study, a mechanical model was developed, aiming to provide standardized and programmable traditional Thai massage (TTM) therapy to patients. The TTM was modeled and integrated into a mechanical hand (MH) system, and a prototype massage chair was built and tested for user satisfaction. Three fundamental principles of Thai massage were integrated: pull, press, and pin. Based on these principles, the mechanics of Thai massage was studied and a mathematical model was developed to describe the dynamics and conditions for the design and prototyping of an MH. On average, it was found that users were satisfied with the treatment and felt that the treatment was similar to that performed by human hands. According to the interview results, users indicated that they were likely to utilize the MH as an alternative to traditional massage. Therefore, integrated TTM with an MH may help healthcare providers deliver standardized, programmable massage therapy to patients as opposed to variable, inconsistent human massage.
Usability of a Wearable Camera System for Dementia Family Caregivers
Authors: Matthews Judith T. , Lingler Jennifer H. , Campbell Grace B. , Hunsaker Amanda E. , Hu Lu , Pires Bernardo R. , Hebert Martial , Schulz Richard
Published: June 2015

Health care providers typically rely on family caregivers (CG) of persons with dementia (PWD) to describe difficult behaviors manifested by their underlying disease. Although invaluable, such reports may be selective or biased during brief medical encounters. Our team explored the usability of a wearable camera system with 9 caregiving dyads (CGs: 3 males, 6 females, 67.00 ± 14.95 years; PWDs: 2 males, 7 females, 80.00 ± 3.81 years, MMSE 17.33 ± 8.86) who recorded 79 salient events over a combined total of 140 hours of data capture, from 3 to 7 days of wear per CG. Prior to using the system, CGs assessed its benefits to be worth the invasion of privacy; post‐wear privacy concerns did not differ significantly. CGs rated the system easy to learn to use, although cumbersome and obtrusive. Few negative reactions by PWDs were reported or evident in resulting video. Our findings suggest that CGs can and will wear a camera system to reveal their daily caregiving challenges to health care providers.
Grid Patient Appointment Template Design to Improve Scheduling Effectiveness
Authors: Huang Yu-Li , Marcak Justin
Published: June 2015

Current outpatient delivery systems have been problematic in their ability to effectively schedule appointments and grant patients access to care. A better appointment system has demonstrated improvement on these issues. The objective of this study is to develop a grid appointment system to further improve the scheduling flexibility by determining the minimum length of appointment slots that optimizes the total costs of patient waiting, physician idling, and overtime. This minimum length is used for the patient type requiring the least amount of treatment time such as return visit (RV), and multiplications of the minimum length are for patient types with longer treatment such as new patients (NP). The results indicated that the proposed grid system adjusts to demand changes at least 15% more cost‐effective when grouping two RVs into an NP or dividing an NP into two RVs compared to the base‐line scheduling approaches that build around the mean treatment time.
Scheduling Patients’ Appointments: Allocation of Healthcare Service Using Simulation Optimization
Authors: Chen Ping-Shun , Robielos Rex Aurelius C. , Palaña Philline Kate Vera C. , Valencia Pierre Lorenzo L. , Chen Gary Yu-Hsin
Published: June 2015

In the service industry, scheduling medical procedures causes difficulties for both patients and management. Factors such as fluctuations in customer demand and service time affect the appointment scheduling systems’ performance in terms of, for example, patients’ waiting time, idle time of resources, and total cost/profits. This research implements four appointment scheduling policies, i.e., constant arrival, mixed patient arrival, three‐section pattern arrival, and irregular arrival, in an ultrasound department of a hospital in Taiwan. By simulating the four implemented policies’ optimization procedures, optimal or near‐optimal solutions can be obtained for patients per arrival, patients’ inter‐arrival time, and the number of the time slots for arrived patients. Furthermore, three objective functions are tested, and the results are discussed. The managerial implications and discussions are summarized to demonstrate how outcomes can be useful for hospital managers seeking to allocate their healthcare service capacities.
Prodigal, wayward: Orson Welles and adapting Richard Wright’s Native Son
Authors: Schwenn Thomas A.
Published: June 2015

Orson Welles’s 1941 stage production of Richard Wright’s Native Son (1940) serves as a prime example of his sensitivities. Welles’s involvement in the project exemplifies his life-long interest in topical and controversial American subjects, as well as literary adaptations. More importantly, however, it appears as a special moment in which he fused his passion for realist techniques, with those more associated with expressionism. Welles’s Native Son then appeared as a confrontational exercise in terms of theatricality and adaptation. This article traces Welles’s involvement with Wright’s celebrated novel, describes the production and its relationship to the novel, and aims to situate it within Welles’s dynamic career.
CHOCOLATE E TURISMO: O PERCURSO HISTÓRICO EM GRAMADO, RS
Authors: De Vargas Daniela Pereira , Gastal Susana
Published: June 2015

Gramado, no Rio Grande do Sul, integra a lista de destinos indutores do Turismo no Brasil, criada pela autoridade federal da área. Tal classificação é resultado de esforços locais contínuos ao longo do século XX para atrair visitantes. Em sua etapa mais recente, o chocolate ganhou centralidade nesse processo. Nesses termos, o presente estudo teve por objetivo descrever a trajetória histórica do Turismo e do Chocolate na cidade, para avaliar suas implicações mútuas ao longo do processo. Metodologicamente associada à História Oral, a pesquisa teve como fonte dados documentais, 15 entrevistas com sujeitos envolvidos com a produção do chocolate e depoimentos de outros sujeitos em publicações locais sobre a presença do turismo na cidade. Os resultados mostram que os turistas são presença na cidade desde seus primórdios, consolidando-se nos anos 1920-1930. Os anos 1950 marcaram-se por iniciativas institucionais públicas e privadas para ampliar essa presença. A partir dos anos 1970, a iniciativa então ousada e isolada de um empresário de instalar uma fábrica de chocolate caseiro na cidade deflagrou novo momento no processo, com fortes implicações no turismo e na economia local. PALAVRAS-CHAVE: História do Turismo. Chocolate. Gramado. Brasil.
Bayes approach to study shape parameter of Frechet distribution
Authors: Nasir Wajiha , Aslam Muhammad
Published: June 2015

In this paper, Frechet distribution under Bayesian paradigm is studied. Posterior distributions are derived by using Gumbel Type-II and Levy prior. Quadrature numerical integration technique is utilized to solve posterior distribution. Bayes estimators and their risks have been obtained by using four loss functions. Prior predictive distributions are derived for elicitation of hyperparameters. The performance of Bayes estimators are compared by using Monte Carlo simulation study.
Predictor of Metabolic Syndrome: A community study from Urban Delhi, India
Authors: Bansal Astha , Joshi P.C.
Published: June 2015

The aim of the present study is to assess and compare the presence of metabolic syndrome using IDF and Modified NCEP ATPIII criteria among Sunni Muslim of Delhi and to determine the optimal cut off values of different parameters for the detection of metabolic syndrome. A total of, 406 individuals (125 men, 281women) aged 35-65 years were recruited. Anthropometric, blood pressure and laboratory investigations were performed following the standard protocols. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves of waist circumference, serum triglycerides, High density lipoprotein cholesterol, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and fasting blood glucose were created for the determination of the metabolic syndrome and the area under curve (AUC) was evaluated to determine the predictive efficiency of each variable of metabolic syndrome. The cut off values of each parameter with corresponding sensitivity, specificity, Youden index and likelihood ratios were estimated.  

The overall metabolic syndrome assessed through Modified NCEP ATP III was 75.12% while through IDF criterion it was 75.36%. Majority of the participants were equally identified by both definitions. The metabolic syndrome was higher in women as compare to men using both the criteria. The area under curve (AUC) shows that serum triglycerides have highest predictive ability for metabolic syndrome in modified NCEP ATP III and IDF. The population specific cut off values of different variable to detect metabolic syndrome was formed. Although these result may not apply to rest of Indian population due to multi ethnicity but similar studies with large sample size to find the cut off values of parameter for metabolic syndrome is needed for better detection and prevention. 

 
Partial regularity for mass-minimizing currents in Hilbert spaces
Authors: Ambrosio Luigi , De Lellis Camillo , Schmidt Thomas
Published: June 2015

Recently, the theory of currents and the existence theory for Plateau’s problem have been extended to the case of finite-dimensional currents in infinite-dimensional manifolds or even metric spaces; see [Acta Math. 185 (2000), 1–80] (and also [Proc. Lond. Math. Soc. (3) 106 (2013), 1121–1142], [Adv. Calc. Var. 7 (2014), 227–240] for the most recent developments). In this paper, in the case when the ambient space is Hilbert, we provide the first partial regularity result, in a dense open set of the support, forn-dimensional integral currents which locally minimize the mass. Our proof follows with minor variants [Indiana Univ. Math. J. 31 (1982), 415–434], implementing Lipschitz approximation and harmonic approximation without indirect arguments and with estimates which depend only on the dimensionnand not on codimension or dimension of the target space.
A simple and highly sensitive method of measuring heme oxygenase activity
Authors: Liem Pham Hieu , Mu Anfeng , Kikuta Shun-ichi , Ohta Kazushi , Kitajima Sakihito , Taketani Shigeru
Published: June 2015

Heme oxygenase (HO) is a rate-limiting step of heme degradation, which catalyzes the conversion of heme into biliverdin, iron, and CO. HO has been characterized in microorganisms, insects, plants, and mammals. Previously used assays of HO activity were complicated and had low sensitivity. We found that the use of an eel bilirubin-bound fluorescent protein, UnaG, can achieve a highly sensitive and simple assay of HO activity. Using several enzyme sources including human culture cells, homogenates of plant tissues, and recombinant yeast HO, data were successfully obtained. The present method can facilitate the examination of HO in various organisms.
The aerodynamic puzzle of nasalized fricatives: Aerodynamic and perceptual evidence from Scottish Gaelic
Authors: Warner Natasha , Brenner Daniel , Schertz Jessamyn , Carnie Andrew , Fisher Muriel , Hammond Michael
Published: June 2015

Scottish Gaelic is sometimes described as having nasalized fricatives (/ṽ/ distinctively, and [f̃, x̃, h̃], etc. through assimilation). However, there are claims that it is not aerodynamically possible to open the velum for nasalization while maintaining frication noise. We present aerodynamic data from 14 native Scottish Gaelic speakers to determine how the posited nasalized fricatives in this language are realized. Most tokens demonstrate loss of nasalization, but nasalization does occur in some contexts without aerodynamic conflict, e.g., nasalization with the consonant realized as an approximant, nasalization of [h̃], nasalization on the preceding vowel, or sequential frication and nasalization. Furthermore, a very few tokens do contain simultaneous nasalization and frication with a trade-off in airflow. We also present perceptual evidence showing that Gaelic listeners can hear this distinction slightly better than chance. Thus, instrumental data from one of the few languages in the world described as having nasalized fricatives confirms that the claimed sounds are not made by producing strong nasalization concurrently with clear frication noise. Furthermore, although speakers most often neutralize the nasalization, when they maintain it, they do so through a variety of phonetic mechanisms, even within a single language.
Crystal structure of bis(4-benzoyl-3-methyl-1-phenyl pyrazol-5-one)- bis(N,N-dimethylformamide)cobalt(II), C40H40CoN6O6
Authors: Idemudia Omoruyi G. , Sadimenko Alexander P. , Hosten Eric C.
Published: June 2015

C40H40CoN6O6, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 10.1110(5) Å, b = 9.3804(4) Å, c = 18.9754(8) Å, β = 91.037(2)°, V = 1799.4 Å3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.0270, wRref(F2) = 0.0743, T = 200 K.
Crystal structure of 3-phenylquinoxalin-2(1H)-one, C14H10N2O
Authors: Schoultz Xandri , Gerber Thomas I. A. , Hosten Eric C. , Betz Richard
Published: June 2015

C14H10N2O, orthorhombic, Pna21 (no. 33), a = 17.6745(7) Å, b = 5.3858(2) Å, c = 22.4721(9) Å, V = 2139.1 Å3, Z = 8, Rgt(F) = 0.0386, wRref(F2) = 0.1092, T = 200 K.
Sufism and Anti-Colonial Violent Resistance Movements: The Qadiriyya and Sanussi Orders in Algeria and Libya
Authors: Muedini Fait
Published: June 2015

In this article, I examine the role of Sufism (and Sufi leaders) as they relate to anti-colonial political and military resistance movements. Sufism is often viewed as a non-violent and non-political branch of Islam. However, I argue that there are many historical examples to illustrate the presence of anti-colonialist Sufi military movements throughout the “Muslim World,” and I give particular attention to the cases of ‘Abd al-Qadir of the Qadiriyya movement and his anti-colonialist rebellion against France in Algeria in the 1800s, as well as that of Italian colonialism in Libya and the military response by the Sanussi order. Thus, while Sufism clearly has various teachings and principles that could be interpreted to promote non-violence, Sufi political movements have also developed as a response to colonialism and imperialism, and thus, one should not automatically assume a necessary separation from Sufism and notions of military resistance.
Ahimsā and its Ambiguities: Reading the story of Buddha and Aṅgulimāla
Authors: Thompson John
Published: June 2015

This paper focuses on the story of the Buddha’s encounter with Angulimāla, a vicious brigand who, subdued by the Buddha, renounces his outlaw ways for the monastic life, eventually attaining arahant status. The tale of Angulimāla has proven quite popular in Buddhist history and is often cited as evidence of how under the Dhamma no one is beyond salvation. Yet this story poses problems for our understanding and as such, has been repeatedly (sometimes radically) re-interpreted over the years. Taking my cue from literary theorists, I maintain that these retellings encourage us to read the story in its various incarnations as an on-going narrative struggle with issues surrounding violence, suggesting a fundamental ambivalence towards violence (and the much-touted virtue of