bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health Professionals’ Attitudes and Beliefs About Breastfeeding
Authors: Radzyminski Sharon , Callister Lynn Clark
Published: April 2015

The aim of this descriptive study was to investigate how health-care providers perceived their role in breastfeeding and maternal support. Data was collected via interviews of 53 health-care professionals that provided care to breastfeeding women. The emerging themes included (a) understanding the benefits of breastfeeding: often lacking current knowledge, (b) lacking consistency: gaps between knowledge of benefits and actual clinical practice, (c) not knowing how to help: lack of assessment and therapeutic skills, and (d) understanding the barriers to breastfeeding: how health-care providers can make a difference. Data analysis suggests inconsistencies between the health-care provider’s perceived support and behaviors, lack of knowledge, and significant lack of skill in the assessment and management of breastfeeding couples.
Development and First Use of Controlled Mud Level System in US Deepwater GoM
Authors: Godhavn John-Morten , Gaassand Sturle , Hansen Kent Hjordt , Morris Russell , Nott Darcy
Published: April 2015

This paper presents the development, qualification, and first use of ECD-Management (ECD-M); a new managed pressure drilling system developed to solve major challenges when drilling in deep waters. ECD-M combines EC-Drill from Enhanced Drilling (EDR), a Controlled Mud Level technology where a subsea pump module is installed mid riser, with the Delta Seal Riser Module (DSRM) from Managed Pressure Operations (MPO) having a Quick Closing Annular (QCA) installed just above the subsea pump. This enables extending the operating envelope of the technology to a point where loss of circulating capability could otherwise cause an underbalance in the well. The first ECD-M well was partially drilled with a reduced riser level, but without the Delta Seal Riser Module. The paper describes the rig modifications, interfaces between vendors, rig contractor and service companies, training, process with BSEE, qualification, success criteria and finally the results and experiences from first use.
Use of Managed Pressure Drilling Technology Helped in Achieving Well Objectives: A Case Study of an Offshore HTHP Well in India
Authors: Sharma Deepak , Agarwal Chakshu , Lobo Monali , Chakraborty Biswajit , Brickell Nigel , Pathak Mandar , Lang Clifford
Published: April 2015

Managed Pressure Drilling technology was deployed to drill Cairn India's first HTHP offshore well in Ravva offshore field of India. MPD feasibility study was carried out initially and this well proved as a candidate well for MPD in hole sections where narrow margin between pore pressure and fracture pressure exists. The use of MPD was further substantiated to mitigate non-productive time associated with wellbore problems like wellbore ballooning, kicks, loss circulation and stuck pipe which were encountered in offset wells. Therefore, a constant bottom hole pressure technique was chosen with mud weight closer to pore pressure & ECD profile being kept according to selected anchor point for each hole section.

The fully automated MPD set-up comprising of a rotating head (with dual sealing function), MPD choke manifold and Coriolis flow meter (6” & 4”) guided by real time hydraulic modelling was used in the well. The mud program was designed close to pore pressure in conjunction with MPD, reduce ECD while drilling and maintaining rheology at high temperature.

The deployment of MPD enabled to increase the section length of the 12.1/4” hole section (769 m), which proved to be a key step in in order to accomplish the well objectives in deeper sections. This paper by medium of actual case study talks about use of MPD technology, operational/ equipment problems faced and lessons learnt. This paper also highlights recommendations for use of MPD technology for similar wells.
The Successful Application of MPD Technology in Drilling Horizontal Wells in a High Pressure Formation Heterogeneity to Mitigate Drilling Hazards: Case Study
Authors: Zambrano Nelson Pinero , Bargawi Riyadh , Mutawa Abdulaziz , Aramco Saudi , Hadj-Moussa Ayoub , Mazouz Cherif , Viera Paco , Zambrano Ramon
Published: April 2015

The highly pressurized intervals coupled with high permeability makes the drilling of the 6-1/8” horizontal hole section particularly challenging in the water injector wells, as mud losses are frequently encountered with differential sticking events. The objective of the workover operations in the objective field is to sidetrack the power water injector from the existing well's motherbore, converting the well in to a dual lateral, which will maintain the reservoir pressure and enhance oil recovery from the oil bearing formation. This variance in formation pressure distribution makes drilling with high mud density systems a challenge, and increases the risk of encountering losses and differential sticking.

To overcome the challenges mentioned, the application of MPD technology with the Constant Bottom-Hole Pressure (CBHP) method during the drilling of the 6-1/8” hole section enables utilizing a mud system that is statically below the formation pressure, while keeping the Equivalent Circulating Density (ECD) slightly over the formation pressure and constant at static and dynamic conditions. This objective is achieved by applying surface back pressure using an Automated MPD control choke manifold. As the drilling continued in the lateral, dynamic formation pressure evaluation was performed to assess the changing formation pressure, and to adjust the drilling parameters.

This paper will summarize the results of the MPD campaign, compares conventional drilling methods, and highlights the lessons learned from the application of the MPD (CBHP variant), to enhance drilling efficiency, and to mitigate drilling hazards such as losses and differential sticking. The analysis will further enhance the drilling practices of the Power Water Injector wells.
‘A dive into floods’: exploring the Dutch implementation of the floods directive
Authors: van Eerd Marjolein (M. C. J.) , Dieperink Carel , Wiering Mark (M. A.)
Published: April 2015

In recent years the number and frequency of high-impact floods have increased and climate change effects are expected to increase flood risks even more. The European Union (EU) has recently established the Floods Directive as a framework for the assessment and management of these risks. The aim of this article is to explore factors that have hampered or stimulated the implementation process of the Floods Directive in the Netherlands, from its establishment in 2007 until January 2013. During this period, the first requirements of the Floods Directive had to be implemented, while the second and third obligations were to be in an advanced stage. Following a literature review of policy implementation theories and a content analysis of the Floods Directive, we have studied the implementation processes in the Dutch part of the Meuse and Rhine-West catchments. Perceptions of interviewees and survey respondents were used to identify influential factors. Our research shows that although the implementation process in the Netherlands is on schedule, it is iterative and complex. Various constraining and stimulating factors, affecting the implementation process, are distinguished. The article concludes with some suggestions for improving the further implementation of the Floods Directive.
Does water governance matter to water sector performance? Evidence from ten provinces in China
Authors: Araral Eduardo , Wang Yahua
Published: April 2015

Water scarcity ranks as one of China's most serious problems today and in the foreseeable future. Rapid urbanization and industrialization and the attendant problems of overconsumption, pollution and inefficient water use have driven and will continue to drive China's water crisis. Most scholars assert that improving water governance is the key to water security in developing countries including China. However, there are very few empirical studies to support this claim. We compare water governance in 10 Chinese provinces in terms of 17 indicators of water laws, policies and administration based on a survey of 89 water experts. We then explore the effects of water governance on water sector performance in terms of adequacy of drinking water, availability of water resources and water productivity. Our findings are consistent with the literature and our expectations but more rigorous studies are needed to establish causal links between governance mechanisms and performance.
Inverse infrastructures: self-organization in the water services
Authors: Heino Ossi , Anttiroiko Ari-Veikko
Published: April 2015

In urban communities, infrastructures that support living are indispensable. There is increased interest in alternative ways of providing such support systems, including semi-autonomous infrastructures resulting from the self-organization of local actors. In this study, we analyze the emergence and management of such infrastructures in light of the theory of complex adaptive systems, within which they are called ‘inverse infrastructures’. Empirical evidence is drawn from the case of water cooperatives in the town of Ikaalinen, Finland. Our analysis shows that, with favorable preconditions in place, inverse infrastructures may contribute significantly to local infrastructure services and so also to the functioning of society.
Water, sanitation and hygiene partners collaborating to combat severe cholera outbreaks during the State of Emergency in Zimbabwe
Authors: Madzingamiri D. , Schouten M. A. C. , Blokland M.
Published: April 2015

This paper aims to understand the value of collaboration in a ‘state of emergency’ situation, featuring the case of the water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) sector in Zimbabwe over the period 2008–2012. During this period, a group of stakeholders engaged in a structured collaboration, called the WASH cluster. This initiative was taken to respond to severe and frequent cholera outbreaks. Over these 5 years, the collaborating partners engaged in a voluntary partnership, which attracted attention due to the ascribed improvements of some key health indicators. Drawing from the body of literature on collaboration, the research confirms the applicability of findings on both the process and key features of successful collaboration and was able to position the evolution of the Zimbabwean case in the continuum of collaboration arrangements proposed in the literature. Likewise, the specific sequencing and causality of steps in the creation and development of the Zimbabwean WASH cluster were found to match those of the collaborative pathway. Finally, the findings confirm the general applicability of principles of collaboration, although the evaluation of its outcomes poses challenges. In addition, the research found that inasmuch as prominent leaders enhance collaboration, leadership by permanent government bodies promotes sustainability of the collaborative approach.
Development of a water quality assessment model: a water quality assessment model based on watershed characteristics by non-linear regression
Authors: Cho Yongdeok
Published: April 2015

Here, a water quality assessment model (WQAM) is developed by non-linear regression as an alternative to physical watershed modeling in South Korea. Three cases and 10 scenarios are applied and reviewed to determine the most appropriate WQAM. The three cases are: (1) the area size allocation of sub-watersheds, (2) the watershed imperviousness ratio, and (3) the combination of the area size and imperviousness ratio. The 10 scenarios are: (1) impervious, (2) impervious + pervious, (3) impervious + rainfall, (4) impervious + slope, (5) impervious + rainfall + slope, (6) slope, (7) land usage, (8) land usage + rainfall, (9) land usage + slope, and (10) land usage + rainfall + slope. The best WQAMs are subsequently developed from the generated equations using statistics (R2, Adjusted R2, F-test, the Akaike information criterion and the Shapiro–Wilk test). In addition, the WQAM is verified using the Geum-Sum-Young River watershed. The percentage differences of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), total nitrogen (T-N), and total phosphorus (T-P) are 31.66%, 8.08%, and 48.94%, respectively. The developed WQAM can be used in place of complex watershed modeling and to aid in the determination of the best restoration locations.
A study on the quantities and potential use of produced water in southern Iraq
Authors: Waisi B. I. H. , Karim U. F. A. , Augustijn D. C. M. , Al-Furaiji M. H. O. , Hulscher S. J. M. H.
Published: April 2015

This paper presents the results of an analysis of volumes and chemical composition of produced water (PW) accompanying oil production from five of the largest oilfields in the world situated in Basrah, Iraq. PW is potentially a valuable water resource particularly there where the ramp up of oil production puts further strains on water and the environment in an area already having severe water shortages. PW should therefore be seen as part of the country's strategic water reserves rather than as effluent. This study gives first estimates of anticipated PW volumes correlated to peak oil production and water consumption needs with time up to 2035. At least a fivefold increase of PW within the next two decades relative to the current 1 Mbbl/d can be anticipated. The estimated PW quantity before 2030 represents nearly a third of water injection or salt-tolerant plant irrigation needs. These quantities and the chemical composition of PW from these fields indicate that quality standards for these purposes can be technically attained and sustained for use in Basrah.
Water quality for irrigation and drinking water use of Aflaj in Oman
Authors: Ahmed Abdelkader T.
Published: April 2015

The Sultanate of Oman is an arid country with scarce water resources mainly consisting of groundwater. Aflaj are artificial canals constructed centuries ago to transfer horizontally the groundwater to a location at the surface. The water quality of these Aflaj is a very important factor to be considered for healthy and safe use of this water. This paper aimed to study the characteristics of the groundwater through its journey in Aflaj from source point up to its usage point. An experimental programme was adopted to investigate the water quality of Al Hammam Aflaj in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. The results showed that some positions of the Falaj have high content of some elements, such as Ca, above the allowable values of drinking water standards. Results proved that the water of Al Hammam Falaj in general can be used with caution as a drinking water; however, some care and monitoring should be applied regularly. Results of sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) and soluble sodium percentage (SSP) equations revealed that the water Falaj can be used for irrigation for all soil types but cannot be used on soils with restricted drainage due to its relatively high salinity.
Bioethanol water footprint: life cycle optimization for water reduction
Authors: Pongpinyopap S. , Mungcharoen T.
Published: April 2015

In Thailand, the Alternative Energy Development Plan has set the target to increase the use of bioethanol to 9.00 million liters per day by 2021. To achieve this goal, both freshwater availability for energy crops and best practices in bioethanol production chain management are very important issues. Therefore, this study integrates water footprint technique with the linear programing approach in order to optimize the operations decision, focusing on water footprint of the bioethanol production chains from both tactical and operational levels. A cradle-to-grave approach is adopted to evaluate the water consumption and pollution in bioethanol production from sugarcane and cassava. The results show that the water footprint of bioethanol consumed in Thailand was about 3.23 × 109, 1.72 × 1010, and 2.49 × 1010 m3 per year in 2010, 2016, and 2021, respectively. The share of agriculture water consumption to the total water footprints of bioethanol was 99% and industrial water consumption was 1%. After applying the linear programing, it was found that the water footprint could be reduced by at least 53%, or 1.33 × 1010 m3, annually. The modeling approach and formulation presented could be used as a tool to reduce water consumption and provide the operation plan of bioethanol production chain.
Should Unexplained Painful Physical Symptoms be Considered within the Spectrum of Depressive Symptoms?
Authors: Hong Jihyung , Novick Diego , Montgomery William , Aguado Jaume , Dueñas Héctor , Peng Xiaomei , Haro Josep Maria
Published: April 2015

Objective:

To examine whether painful physical symptoms (PPS) can be considered within the spectrum of depressive symptoms.

Methods:

Data for this post-hoc analysis were taken from a 6-month observational study mostly conducted in East Asia, Mexico, and the Middle East of 1,549 depressed patients without sexual dysfunction at baseline. Both explanatory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA and CFA) were performed on the combined items of the 16-item Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report and the Somatic Symptom Inventory (seven pain-related items only). An additional second-order CFA was also conducted to examine an association between retained factors and the overall “depressive symptoms” factor. In addition, Spearman’s correlation was used to assess levels of correlation between retained factors and depression severity as well as quality of life.

Results:

Both EFA and CFA suggested and validated a four-factor solution, which included a pain factor. The other three factors identified were a mood/cognitive factor, a sleep disturbance factor, and an appetite/weight disturbance factor. All four factors were significantly associated with the overall factor of depression. They were also highly correlated to depression severity and quality of life (p<0.001 for all). The levels of correlations with the pain factor were generally greater than those with the appetite/weight factor and similar to those with the sleep factor.

Conclusion:

It may be reasonable to consider PPS within a broad spectrum of depressive symptoms. At least, they should be routinely assessed in patients with depression. Further research is warranted to validate these preliminary findings.
Auditory Evoked Potential Response and Hearing Loss: A Review
Authors: Paulraj M. P , Subramaniam Kamalraj , Yaccob Sazali Bin , Adom Abdul H. Bin , Hema C. R
Published: April 2015

Hypoacusis is the most prevalent sensory disability in the world and consequently, it can lead to impede speech in human beings. One best approach to tackle this issue is to conduct early and effective hearing screening test using Electroencephalogram (EEG). EEG based hearing threshold level determination is most suitable for persons who lack verbal communication and behavioral response to sound stimulation. Auditory evoked potential (AEP) is a type of EEG signal emanated from the brain scalp by an acoustical stimulus. The goal of this review is to assess the current state of knowledge in estimating the hearing threshold levels based on AEP response. AEP response reflects the auditory ability level of an individual. An intelligent hearing perception level system enables to examine and determine the functional integrity of the auditory system. Systematic evaluation of EEG based hearing perception level system predicting the hearing loss in newborns, infants and multiple handicaps will be a priority of interest for future research.
Bioactive Titanate Layers Formed on Titanium and Its Alloys by Simple Chemical and Heat Treatments
Authors: Kokubo Tadashi , Yamaguchi Seiji
Published: April 2015

To reveal general principles for obtaining bone-bonding bioactive metallic titanium, Ti metal was heat-treated after exposure to a solution with different pH. The material formed an apatite layer at its surface in simulated body fluid when heat-treated after exposure to a strong acid or alkali solution, because it formed a positively charged titanium oxide and negatively charged sodium titanate film on its surface, respectively. Such treated these Ti metals tightly bonded to living bone. Porous Ti metal heat-treated after exposure to an acidic solution exhibited not only osteoconductive, but also osteoinductive behavior. Porous Ti metal exposed to an alkaline solution also exhibits osteoconductivity as well as osteoinductivity, if it was subsequently subjected to acid and heat treatments. These acid and heat treatments were not effective for most Ti-based alloys. However, even those alloys exhibited apatite formation when they were subjected to acid and heat treatment after a NaOH treatment, since the alloying elements were removed from the surface by the latter. The NaOH and heat treatments were also not effective for Ti-Zr-Nb-Ta alloys. These alloys displayed apatite formation when subjected to CaCl2treatment after NaOH treatment, forming Ca-deficient calcium titanate at their surfaces after subsequent heat and hot water treatments. The bioactive Ti metal subjected to NaOH and heat treatments has been clinically used as an artificial hip joint material in Japan since 2007. A porous Ti metal subjected to NaOH, HCl and heat treatments has successfully undergone clinical trials as a spinal fusion device.
A Review Paper on Biomimetic Calcium Phosphate Coatings
Authors: Lin X. , de Groot K. , Wang D. , Hu Q. , Wismeijer D. , Liu Y.
Published: April 2015

Biomimetic calcium phosphate coatings have been developed for bone regeneration and repair because of their biocompatibility, osteoconductivity, and easy preparation. They can be rendered osteoinductive by incorporating an osteogenic agent, such as bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2), into the crystalline lattice work in physiological situations. The biomimetic calcium phosphate coating enables a controlled, slow and local release of BMP-2 when it undergoes cell mediated coating degradation induced by multinuclear cells, such as osteoclasts and foreign body giant cells, which mimics a physiologically similar release mode, to achieve sustained ectopic or orthotopic bone formation. Therefore, biomimetic calcium phosphate coatings are considered to be a promising delivery vehicle for osteogenic agents. In this review, we present an overview of biomimetic calcium phosphate coatings including their preparation techniques, physico-chemical properties, potential as drug carrier, and their pre-clinical application both in ectopic and orthotopic animal models. We briefly review some features of hydroxyapatite coatings and their clinical applications to gain insight into the clinical applications of biomimetic calcium phosphate coatings in the near future.
Formation of Solution-derived Hydroxyapatite Coatings on Titanium Alloy in the Presence of Magnetron-sputtered Alumina Bond Coats
Authors: Zykova Anna , Safonov Vladimir , Yanovska Anna , Sukhodub Leonid , Rogovskaya Renata , Smolik Jerzy , Yakovin Stas
Published: April 2015

Hydroxyapatite Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2(HAp) and calcium phosphate ceramic materials and coatings are widely used in medicine and dentistry because of their ability to enhance the tissue response to implant surfaces and promote bone ingrowth and osseoconduction processes. The deposition conditions have a great influence on the structure and biofunctionality of calcium phosphate coatings. Corrosion processes and poor adhesion to substrate material reduce the lifetime of implants with calcium phosphate coatings. The research has focused on the development of advanced methods to deposit double-layered ceramic oxide/calcium phosphate coatings by a hybrid technique of magnetron sputtering and thermal methods. The thermal method can promote the crystallization and the formation of HAp coatings on titanium alloy Ti6Al4V substrates at low temperature, based on the principle that the solubility of HAp in aqueous solutions decreases with increasing substrate temperature. By this method, hydroxyapatite directly coated the substrate without precipitation in the initial solution. Using a thermal substrate method, calcium phosphate coatings were prepared at substrate temperatures of 100-105oC. The coated metallic implant surfaces with ceramic bond coats and calcium phosphate layers combine the excellent mechanical properties of metals with the chemical stability of ceramic materials. The corrosion test results show that the ceramic oxide (alumina) coatings and the double-layered alumina-calcium phosphate coatings improve the corrosion resistance compared with uncoated Ti6Al4V and single-layered Ti6Al4V/calcium phosphate substrates. In addition, the double-layered alumina/hydroxyapatite coatings demonstrate the best biocompatibility duringin vitrotests.
Optimization of a Multi-pendulum Wave Energy Converter
Authors: Zhang Jun , Li Chenglong , He Hongzhou , Zang Xiaogang
Published: April 2015

In order to improve the energy capture efficiency of a multi-pendulum wave energy converter, a mathematical
model of the pendulum structure has been built. The final structure parameters of the pendulum have been obtained by using
genetic algorithm based on the numerical simulation results of the pendulum structure optimization. The results show
that under obtained structure parameters the proposed multi-pendulum device can obtain maximum energy conversion efficiency.
Manufacturing Technology and Cost Estimation Research on Special
Nozzle
Authors: Shilun Zuo
Published: April 2015

During development process of the static mixer, design and manufacture of the nozzle is key and difficult. In
satisfying product quality requirements, try to reduce the manufacturing cost, and shorten development cycle, are main
goal of the product developers. This article carried out practical manufacturing technology research though the
manufacturing processing design, machining method selection, quality testing, cost analysis of special nozzle, and so on.
The results show that the manufacturing process and machining methods are the crucial factors influencing the product
manufacturing costs, and reasonably planning manufacturing process, carefully selecting machining method is an
important means of reducing manufacturing cost and shorten development cycle.
3D Finite Element Analysis of Cutting Forces in the Process of Machining
Rectangular Microchannels
Authors: He Zhanshu , Li Dalei , Cao Lianduo , Yang Xuefei
Published: April 2015

In the process of machining rectangular microchannels, severe friction occurs between the chip and the side
face of the machined microchannel. The cutting forces have great effect on the miniature cutting tool. Thus, 3D FEM is
adopted to study the cutting forces. The influences of the depth of the machined microchannel t, the cutting depth ac, the
cutting width aw , the rake angle ○o and the cutting speed ν on the cutting forces are investigated. Results show that the main cutting force Fz and the thrust force Fy increase with the increase of t, ac and aw and have no obvious change with ν.
Moreover, Fz decreases and Fy increases as γ○ increases.
Analysis and Calculation of Double Circular Arc Gear Meshing Impact
Model
Authors: Yang Li , Bao-lin Wu , Lin-lin Zhu
Published: April 2015

The goal of this study is to propose a new theoretical approach for the analysis of the impact of the double
circular arc gear meshing. The gear meshing impact dynamic model for four different meshing states was firstly built in
the gear system. According to the mechanical dynamics and dynamics of the gear system, the reasons for the meshing
impact and the impact type of double-circular-arc gear were analyzed in the paper. The content of the paper covers: (i)
analysis of the mechanism of meshing impact; (ii) the practical meshing impact process; (iii) establishment of meshing
impact model; (iv) solution of the meshing impact radius; (v) calculation of the meshing impact force in theory. The
reverse method and the graphing method were used to determine the starting positions of impact and its coordinate
formulas were built. Formula of impact velocity, impact force and impact radius were also established. Impact force is
calculated with formulas constructed above. This paper’s target is quite innovative and applicable and the paper gives a
new way for double circular arc gear meshing impact research.
Is Vitamin D Deficiency a New Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Disease?
Authors: Mandarino Natália Ribeiro , Júnior Francisco das Chagas Monteiro , Salgado João Victor Leal , Lages Joyce Santos , Filho Natalino Salgado
Published: April 2015

The role of vitamin D in the regulation of bone metabolism has been well established. However, in recent years, many studies have demonstrated that its role extends far beyond bone health. Growing evidence has shown a strong association between vitamin D deficiency and hypertension, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis. The mechanisms by which vitamin D exerts its cardiovascular protective effects are still not completely understood, but there is evidence that it participates in the regulation of renin-angiotensin system and the mechanisms of insulin sensitivity and activity of inflammatory cytokines, besides its direct cardiovascular actions. In this review, several studies linking vitamin D deficiency with cardiometabolic risk as well as small randomized trials that have evaluated the cardiovascular effects of its supplementation are presented. However, large randomized placebo-controlled studies are still needed before we can definitively establish the role of vitamin D supplementation in the prevention and control of cardiovascular disease.
Effects of Citric Acid and Desensitizing Agent Application on Nonfluorosed and Fluorosed Dentin: An In Vitro Sem Study
Authors: Neha Mahajan , Vandana Laxman K
Published: April 2015

Fluorosis is one of the factors which bring about mineralisation changes in a dentinal structure leading to dentin. The purpose of the present study was to compare and evaluate the dentinal tubular changes in fluorosed and nonfluorosed teeth subsequent to the application of citric acid,strontium acetate based sodium fluoride (SAF) using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Dentin specimens from healthy fluorosed and nonfluorosed teeth were included in the study. Each of them was grouped into acid treated and SAF treatment groups. Using SEM, the photomicrographs (3500x) of dentin specimens were evaluated. Results showed while there was a significant difference in tubular width of partial occlusion ≤ 25%, being more in fluorosed group compared to nonfluorosed group after application SAF. Application of desensitising agents demonstrated higher number of dentinal tubular occlusion and diameter reduction in nonfluorosed dentin compared to fluorosed dentin. Summary: Root biomodification and desensitising agent procedure brings in definite difference between fluorosed and non-fluorosed dentin specimens.
Study on the Impact of Polymer Retention in Porous Media on Further
Surfactant-Polymer Flood
Authors: Li Junjian , Jiang Hanqiao , Yu Qun , Liu Fan , Liu Hongxia
Published: April 2015

Polymer flood gains expansive popularity as a promising EOR method in various oilfields worldwide. However,
there are still substantial amount of resources underground after polymer application. To further enhance oil recovery,
secondary chemicals are sometimes utilized to sweep the remaining hydrocarbons to maintain the consistent development
of oilfields. In this paper, a series of experiments are established and conducted to explore the feasibility of surfactant/
polymer flooding applied to a polymer flooded reservoir, and also the influence of polymer retention in porous
media to enhance the oil recovery performance of subsequent chemical drive. The data of the experiments suggest that
surfactant/polymer flooding owns a very good potential as a subsequent EOR technique, and that polymer retention in
pores helps block underground water channels, improving greatly the sweeping efficiency of secondary chemical flood.
Development and Performance Evaluation of Steam Channeling Plugging
Agent of Thermal Oil Recovery
Authors: Chunsheng Wang , Yingfan Sun , Chenglin He , Haipeng Zhang , Qiuying Du
Published: April 2015

Under the constraints of high temperature and heterogeneity, the common profile control agent can not effectively
plug the steam channeling. To address this issue, it is necessary to develop the high temperature resistance steam
channeling plugging agent to improve the steam suction profile in the heavy oil reservoir. This paper used Simple Variable
Method to optimize the content of the components of the high temperature resistant plugging agent. Static performances
evaluation aims to study the influence rules of the formation condition (temperature, salinity and pH value). Dynamic
evaluation is used to study its performance (plugging ratio, residual resistance factor, scouring resistance and thermal
stability) in the sand-filled pipe to testify its applicability. The ratio of the component and the injection sequence are
shown as follows: 0.03% coagulant +2.2% cross-linking agent I + 1.2% cross-linking II + 6% high efficient main agent.
The evaluation experiment results show that the gel can resist at least 280ºC, the plugging ratio is above 93.1%. The plugging
ratio only have a 8.43% reduction after scoured by 15 PV steam (280ºC). After a 10-day thermal stability experiment
(280 ºC), the plugging ratio is still above 80%. The result indicated that the plugging agent is suitable for the improvement
of steam suction profile. The suggested way of injection is also provided.
Research on the Arranging and Patchwork Design for Storage Tank
Bottom Based on Sinovation
Authors: Junru Yang , Chuanjuan Song , Nannan Zhang , Daozhong Zhang , Ning Xu
Published: April 2015

In the paper, to solve the patchwork problem of large chemical storage tank bottom, theoretical researches on
arranging special-shaped parts are carried out. The heuristic layout algorithm with dynamic decision layout order and
based on graphics position strategy is proposed. According to the algorithm, basing on Sinovation platform, using the object-
oriented programming language C++ and Visual Studio tools, the arranging and patchwork system is designed and
developed. And the application researches are performed with the system. The results show that, comparing with the rectangular
envelopment algorithm, the plate utilization ratio is increased with the patchwork algorithm as proposed in the
paper.
Analysis on Mechanism of Action of Reversed Transmission of the Pressure
on Adjustment of the Structure of Coal Production and Consumption
in China
Authors: Shuang Li , Wang Yao , Yanyan Tang
Published: April 2015

The survival and development of coal industry had reached a point where its very existence was at stake in the
context of overcapacity and haze siege. For solving the problems of over capacity of coal and realizing transformation of
coal consumption structure, this paper discussed various mechanisms of action, which forced coal industry in China to
trend toward de-capacity and coal consumption transformation and upgrade guided by marketing tools or government’s
policies. The core innovation is to carry out the governance mechanism of environment pollution policy tools. The new
part compared with previous work is finding that, different policy tools selection will cause different distribution effects
and make the burdens of polluters consuming coal, victims and the society never stop. On the one hand it required the
market mechanism of supply and demand to force de-capacity in coal industry in China and to change or even remodel
operating rules in coal industry; on the other hand it made the polluters consuming coal undertake blowdown cost through
the government or marketing tools so that the scientific regulation mechanism could play a decisive role in coal production
and consumption.
A Systematic Review of the Relationship Between Family Structure and Health Risk Behaviours Amongst Young People: An African Perspective
Authors: Frantz José , Sixaba Zinzi , Smith Mario
Published: April 2015

Objective: The aim of this study was to review the published literature on the relationship between family
structure and engagement in health risk behaviour amongst youth in African countries.
Methods: A systematic review was conducted between 2000 and 2014. Suitable titles were identified from database
searches. Thereafter, abstracts were evaluated along specific inclusion criteria. Eleven full text articles were evaluated for
methodological quality using a modified critical appraisal tool and six studies were included in the final review that
satisfied the threshold criterion of 70%. A narrative synthesis was completed for all included records to provide a textual
answer to the research question.

Results: Findings indicated that there was a relationship between family structure and engagement in health risk
behaviour, specifically risky sexual behaviour. The importance of family structure was evident, and the active
involvement of parents in the activities of youth is cardinal. The review further underscores that there is lack of
methodologically rigorous research that can provide empirical support for and insight into the relationship between family
structure and engagement in health risk behaviour.

Discussion: Risky sexual behaviour was the most prevalent outcome assessed across studies. Family structure impacted
positively on delaying or reducing engagement in risky sexual behaviour. Diverse family structures were identified and
orphans living with caregivers were identified as a particular structure that might be more prevalent in the African context.
Parental involvement and investment in adolescent activities were more strongly identified as an important factor. There is
a lack of and need for more methodologically rigorous research to gain empirical support for and insight into the
relationship between family structure and health risk behaviours.
Imprisoned Sex Offenders’ Chronic Denial and their Childhood Family Environment
Authors: Davids Olivia , Londt Marcel , Wilson Lizane
Published: April 2015

Statistics in South Africa shows that sex offences are among the crimes that invoke the most public concern as
anywhere else in the world. The number of sentenced sex offenders is increasing and denial by the sex offender is
regarded as a risk factor for re-offending. Sex offenders who chronically deny their offenses are not only perceived as
having a greater likelihood of recidivism, but additional questions about their childhood experiences and their experiences
in their families of origin are also raised. This study described the family environment of non-admitting sex offenders and
explored whether any family characteristics influenced their denial of the sexual offence. Qualitative research was applied
and ten (10) incarcerated, non-admitting sex offenders were purposively selected from a Correctional Facility in the
Western Cape. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participants and Social Learning Theory was used as a
lens to understand the dynamics. The findings of this study highlighted that most participants were raised in single-parent
households with absent father figures, which had implications for their masculine identities and roles. These families were
characterized by challenges such as domestic violence, substance abuse, unsatisfactory support and compromised
parenting styles.
Using Chou’s Pseudo Amino Acid Composition and Machine Learning
Method to Predict the Antiviral Peptides
Authors: Zare Maryam , Mohabatkar Hassan , Faramarzi Fateme Kazemi , Beigi Majid Mohammad , Behbahani Mandana
Published: April 2015

Traditional antiviral therapies are expensive, limitedly available, and cause several side effects. Currently, designing
antiviral peptides is very important, because these peptides interfere with the key stage of virus life cycle. Most of
the antiviral peptides are derived from viral proteins for example peptide derived from HIV-1 capsid protein. Because of
the importance of these peptides, in this study the concept of pseudo-amino acid composition (PseAAC) and machine
learning methods are used to classify or identify antiviral peptides.
Ablation and Regeneration of Peripheral and Central TRPV1 Expressing Nerve Terminals and the Consequence of Nociception
Authors: Yu Shuang-Quan , Premkumar Louis S.
Published: April 2015

Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) expressed in peripheral terminals is responsible for transducing thermal and chemical nociception. Role of TRPV1 expressed in the central terminals is not clear, however, its activation modulates synaptic transmission and contributes to central sensitization. In this study, we have determined the role of TRPV1 expressed in the peripheral and central terminals using resiniferatoxin (RTX), a potent TRPV1 agonist. A single intraplantar injection of RTX, within two days induced loss of capsaicin-induced nocifensive behavior and enhanced response latency to hot plate, which recovered over a period of two months. RTX treatment resulted in the ablation of peripheral TRPV1 expressing fibers in paw skin, which regenerated over the same time period. On the other hand, a single dose of intrathecal administration of RTX, within two days caused thermal hypoalgesia. RTX treatment ablated TRPV1 expressing central sensory nerve terminals. Intriguingly, in contrast to peripheral nerve terminal
regeneration that occurred within two months, the central TRPV1 expressing nerve terminals did not regenerate even after five months. The present study demonstrates that TRPV1 in the peripheral and central terminals play a role in nociception and the peripheral terminals have the ability to regenerate, whereas the central terminals do not regenerate even after five months.
Impact of wearing fixed orthodontic appliances on quality of life among adolescents: Case-control study
Authors: Costa Andréa A. , Serra-Negra Júnia M. , Bendo Cristiane B. , Pordeus Isabela A. , Paiva Saul M.
Published: April 2015

Objective: 

To investigate the impact of wearing a fixed orthodontic appliance on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among adolescents.

Materials and Methods: 

A case-control study (1∶2) was carried out with a population-based randomized sample of 327 adolescents aged 11 to 14 years enrolled at public and private schools in the City of Brumadinho, southeast of Brazil. The case group (n  =  109) was made up of adolescents with a high negative impact on OHRQoL, and the control group (n  =  218) was made up of adolescents with a low negative impact. The outcome variable was the impact on OHRQoL measured by the Brazilian version of the Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ11–14) – Impact Short Form (ISF:16). The main independent variable was wearing fixed orthodontic appliances. Malocclusion and the type of school were identified as possible confounding variables. Bivariate and multiple conditional logistic regressions were employed in the statistical analysis.

Results: 

A multiple conditional logistic regression model demonstrated that adolescents wearing fixed orthodontic appliances had a 4.88-fold greater chance of presenting high negative impact on OHRQoL (95% CI: 2.93–8.13; P < .001) than those who did not wear fixed orthodontic appliances. A bivariate conditional logistic regression demonstrated that malocclusion was significantly associated with OHRQoL (P  =  .017), whereas no statistically significant association was found between the type of school and OHRQoL (P  =  .108).

Conclusions: 

Adolescents who wore fixed orthodontic appliances had a greater chance of reporting a negative impact on OHRQoL than those who did not wear such appliances.
A multi-center randomized controlled trial to compare a self-ligating bracket with a conventional bracket in a UK population: Part 1: Treatment efficiency
Authors: O'Dywer Lian , Littlewood Simon J. , Rahman Shahla , Spencer R. James , Barber Sophy K. , Russell Joanne S.
Published: April 2015

Objective: 

To use a two-arm parallel trial to compare treatment efficiency between a self-ligating and a conventional preadjusted edgewise appliance system.

Materials and Methods: 

A prospective multi-center randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted in three hospital orthodontic departments. Subjects were randomly allocated to receive treatment with either a self-ligating (3M SmartClip) or conventional (3M Victory) preadjusted edgewise appliance bracket system using a computer-generated random sequence concealed in opaque envelopes, with stratification for operator and center. Two operators followed a standardized protocol regarding bracket bonding procedure and archwire sequence. Efficiency of each ligation system was assessed by comparing the duration of treatment (months), total number of appointments (scheduled and emergency visits), and number of bracket bond failures.

Results: 

One hundred thirty-eight subjects (mean age 14 years 11 months) were enrolled in the study, of which 135 subjects (97.8%) completed treatment. The mean treatment time and number of visits were 25.12 months and 19.97 visits in the SmartClip group and 25.80 months and 20.37 visits in the Victory group. The overall bond failure rate was 6.6% for the SmartClip and 7.2% for Victory, with a similar debond distribution between the two appliances. No significant differences were found between the bracket systems in any of the outcome measures. No serious harm was observed from either bracket system.

Conclusions: 

There was no clinically significant difference in treatment efficiency between treatment with a self-ligating bracket system and a conventional ligation system.
Dapagliflozin’s Effects on Glycemia and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in High-Risk Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A 24-Week, Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study With a 28-Week Extension
Authors: Cefalu William T. , Leiter Lawrence A. , de Bruin Tjerk W.A. , Gause-Nilsson Ingrid , Sugg Jennifer , Parikh Shamik J.
Published: April 2015

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin, a selective sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor, compared with placebo in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), documented pre-existing cardiovascular disease (CVD), and a history of hypertension.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Patients (N = 922) were randomized to receive 10 mg dapagliflozin or placebo in a double-blind trial for 24 weeks, followed by a 28-week extension period. In patients receiving insulin, the insulin dose was reduced by 25% at randomization. Patients were stratified by age, insulin use, and time from the most recent qualifying cardiovascular (CV) event. Co-primary end points were a change from baseline in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and the proportion of patients achieving a combined reduction in HbA1c of ≥0.5% (5.5 mmol/mol), body weight (BW) of ≥3%, and systolic blood pressure (SBP) of ≥3 mmHg.

RESULTS

At 24 weeks, dapagliflozin significantly reduced HbA1c (−0.38% [−4.2 mmol/mol]) from baseline (8.18%) compared with a slight increase with placebo from baseline (8.08%) (0.08% [0.9 mmol/mol]). Significantly more patients met the three-item end point with treatment with dapagliflozin than with placebo (11.7% vs. 0.9%, respectively). Changes were maintained over 52 weeks. Although ∼42% of patients were ≥65 years old, similar results were observed in both age-stratified groups. Serious adverse events, hypoglycemia, urinary tract infections, and cardiac disorders were similar between groups. Adverse events of hypotension, dehydration, hypovolemia, genital infection, and renal failure or impairment occurred more often with dapagliflozin treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study that evaluated T2D patients who were at high risk for future CVD events, dapagliflozin administration had significantly greater effects in reducing HbA1c, BW, and SBP, without adversely impacting CV safety when compared with placebo treatment.