bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photodegradation of Chloridazon Using Coreshell Magnetic Nanocompsites
Authors: Fouad Dina Mamdouh , Mohamed Mona Bakr
Published: September 2011

A new synthesized magnetic nanoparticle of Fe3O4and coreshell Fe3O4@Au is prepared chemically. A comparative study between the photocatalytic activity between Fe3O4and core shell Au-Fe3O4nanoparticles has been studied on the effect of UV and sun light on the photodegradation of chloridazon. The particle has been prepared using chemical methods and the particle size and shape have been examined via transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Analysis of the degradation of 20 ppm chloridazon under ultraviolet (UV) and visible light was analyzed with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and UV-Visible Spectra. Influence of different parameters on the activity photodegradation rate has been studied. The results indicate that the Fe3O4@Au nanoparticles are much more active catalyst in presence of sun light than pure Fe3O4nanomaterials which have maximum absorption at 560 nm.
No Evidence for Statin‐induced Proteinuria in Healthy Volunteers asAssessed by Proteomic Analysis
Authors: Verhulst Anja , Geryl Hilde , D′Haese Patrick
Published: September 2011

In clinical studies of statins (class of drugs lowering plasma cholesterol levels), transient low‐molecular‐weight proteinuria was observed. The causes of statin‐induced proteinuria in the patient background of those studies (cardiovascular and kidney disease) are multifactorial and, therefore, a matter of debate. In light of this, it seemed interesting to investigate the effect of statins on the urinary protein concentration and proteome in healthy volunteers. Six healthy volunteers were randomly treated with rosuvastatin (40 mg/day) or pravastatin (80 mg/day) in a double‐blinded cross‐over study. Total urinary protein concentration and the concentration of albumin/retinol‐binding protein were analysed, after which the urinary proteome was investigated. From the results described in this study, it was concluded that statins do not induce major changes in the urinary protein concentration/proteome. High variability in the baseline urinary proteome/proteins among volunteers, however, made it very difficult to find subtle (possibly isolated to individuals) effects of statins.
Solving Famous Nonlinear Coupled Equations with Parameters Derivative by Homotopy Analysis Method
Authors: Effati Sohrab , Saberi Nik Hassan , Buzhabadi Reza
Published: September 2011

The homotopy analysis method (HAM) is employed to obtain symbolic approximate solutions for nonlinear coupled equations with parameters derivative. These nonlinear coupled equations with parameters derivative contain many important mathematical physics equations and reaction diffusion equations. By choosing different values of the parameters in general formal numerical solutions, as a result, a very rapidly convergent series solution is obtained. The efficiency and accuracy of the method are verified by using two famous examples: coupled Burgers and mKdV equations. The obtained results show that the homotopy perturbation method is a special case of homotopy analysis method.
The Importance of Antioxidant Micronutrients in Pregnancy
Authors: Mistry Hiten D. , Williams Paula J.
Published: September 2011

Pregnancy places increased demands on the mother to provide adequate nutrition to the growing conceptus. A number of micronutrients function as essential cofactors for or themselves acting as antioxidants. Oxidative stress is generated during normal placental development; however, when supply of antioxidant micronutrients is limited, exaggerated oxidative stress within both the placenta and maternal circulation occurs, resulting in adverse pregnancy outcomes. The present paper summarises the current understanding of selected micronutrient antioxidants selenium, copper, zinc, manganese, and vitamins C and E in pregnancy. To summarise antioxidant activity of selenium is via its incorporation into the glutathione peroxidase enzymes, levels of which have been shown to be reduced in miscarriage and preeclampsia. Copper, zinc, and manganese are all essential cofactors for superoxide dismutases, which has reduced activity in pathological pregnancy. Larger intervention trials are required to reinforce or refute a beneficial role of micronutrient supplementation in disorders of pregnancies.
Sympatric Speciation in Threespine Stickleback: Why Not?
Authors: Bolnick Daniel I.
Published: September 2011

Numerous theoretical models suggest that sympatric speciation is possible when frequency-dependent interactions such as intraspecific competition drive disruptive selection on a trait that is also subject to assortative mating. Here, I review recent evidence that both conditions are met in lake populations of threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus). Nonetheless, sympatric speciation appears to be rare or absent in stickleback. If stickleback qualitatively fit the theoretical requirements for sympatric speciation, why do they not undergo sympatric speciation? I present simulations showing that disruptive selection and assortative mating in stickleback, though present, are too weak to drive speciation. Furthermore, I summarize empirical evidence that disruptive selection in stickleback drives other forms of evolutionary diversification (plasticity, increased trait variance, and sexual dimorphism) instead of speciation. In conclusion, core assumptions of sympatric speciation theory seem to be qualitatively reasonable for stickleback, but speciation may nevertheless fail because of (i) quantitative mismatches with theory and (ii) alternative evolutionary outcomes.
Fibre Optic Readout of Microcantilever Arrays for Fast Microorganism Growth Detection
Authors: Maloney N. , Lukacs G. , Nugaeva N. , Grange W. , Ramseyer J. P. , Jensen J. , Hegner M.
Published: September 2011

We present a fibre-optic-based device for the automated readout of microcantilever arrays for fast microorganism growth detection. We determined the ability of our device to track shifts in resonance frequency due to an increase in mass on the cantilever surface or changes in mechanical stiffness. The resonance frequency response of 7 μm thick agarose-functionalised cantilevers was tracked as humidity levels were varied revealing a mass responsivity of~51±1 pg/Hz. The resonance response of microcantilevers coated withAspergillus niger (A. niger)spores was monitored for >48 h revealing a growth detection time of >4 h. The growth of mycelium along the cantilevers surface is seen to result in an increase in resonance frequency due to the reinforcement of the cantilever structure. The use of our fibre optic detection technique allows data to be recorded continuously and faster than previously reported.
2-Deoxyglucose Induces Noxa-Dependent Apoptosis in Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Ramírez-Peinado Silvia , Alcázar-Limones Fermín , Lagares-Tena Laura , El Mjiyad Nadia , Caro-Maldonado Alfredo , Tirado Oscar M. , Muñoz-Pinedo Cristina
Published: September 2011

Alveolar and embryonal rhabdomyosarcomas are childhood tumors that do not respond well to current chemotherapies. Here, we report that the glycolytic inhibitor 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) can efficiently promote cell death in alveolar, but not embryonal, rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines. Notably, 2-DG also induced cell differentiation accompanied by downregulation of PAX3/FOXO1a, the chromosome translocation–encoded fusion protein that is a central oncogenic driver in this disease. Cell death triggered by 2-DG was associated with its ability to activate Bax and Bak. Overexpression of the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 homologues Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 prevented apoptosis, indicating that cell death proceeds through the mitochondrial pathway. Mechanistic investigations indicated that Mcl-1 downregulation and Noxa upregulation were critical for 2-DG–induced apoptosis. In addition, 2-DG promoted eIF2α phosphorylation and inactivation of the mTOR pathway. Mcl-1 loss and cell death were prevented by downregulation of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress–induced protein ATF4 and by incubating cells in the presence of mannose, which reverted 2-DG–induced ER stress but not ATP depletion. Thus, energetic stresses created by 2-DG were not the primary cause of cell death. Together, our findings suggest that glycolysis inhibitors such as 2-DG may be highly effective in treating alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma and that Noxa could offer a prognostic marker to monitor the efficacy of such agents. Cancer Res; 71(21); 6796–806. ©2011 AACR.
Arterial Pulse Wave Dynamics After Percutaneous Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Davies Justin E. , Sen Sayan , Broyd Chris , Hadjiloizou Nearchos , Baksi John , Francis Darrel P. , Foale Rodney A. , Parker Kim H. , Hughes Alun D. , Chukwuemeka Andrew , Casula Roberto , Malik Iqbal S. , Mikhail Ghada W. , Mayet Jamil
Published: September 2011

Background—

Aortic stenosis causes angina despite unobstructed arteries. Measurement of conventional coronary hemodynamic parameters in patients undergoing valvular surgery has failed to explain these symptoms. With the advent of percutaneous aortic valve replacement (PAVR) and developments in coronary pulse wave analysis, it is now possible to instantaneously abolish the valvular stenosis and to measure the resulting changes in waves that direct coronary flow.

Methods and Results—

Intracoronary pressure and flow velocity were measured immediately before and after PAVR in 11 patients with unobstructed coronary arteries. Using coronary pulse wave analysis, we calculated the intracoronary diastolic suction wave (the principal accelerator of coronary blood flow). To test physiological reserve to increased myocardial demand, we measured at resting heart rate and during pacing at 90 and 120 bpm. Before PAVR, the basal myocardial suction wave intensity was 1.9±0.3×10
−5
W · m
−2
· s
−2
, and this increased in magnitude with increasing severity of aortic stenosis (
r
=0.59,
P
=0.05). This wave decreased markedly with increasing heart rate (β coefficient=−0.16×10
−4
W · m
−2
· s
−2
;
P
<0.001). After PAVR, despite a fall in basal suction wave (1.9±0.3 versus 1.1±0.1×10
−5
W · m
−2
· s
−2
;
P
=0.02), there was an immediate improvement in coronary physiological reserve with increasing heart rate (β coefficient=0.9×10
−3
W · m
−2
· s
−2
;
P
=0.014).

Conclusions—

In aortic stenosis, the coronary physiological reserve is impaired. Instead of increasing when heart rate rises, the coronary diastolic suction wave decreases. Immediately after PAVR, physiological reserve returns to a normal positive pattern. This may explain how aortic stenosis can induce anginal symptoms and their prompt relief after PAVR.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01118442.
Role of T Lymphocytes in Angiotensin II–Mediated Microvascular Thrombosis
Authors: Senchenkova Elena Y. , Russell Janice , Kurmaeva Elvira , Ostanin Dmitry , Granger D. Neil
Published: September 2011

Clinical trials and animal studies have revealed a role for the renin-angiotensin system in the enhanced thrombus development that is associated with hypertension. Because T lymphocytes have been implicated in the vascular dysfunction and blood pressure elevation associated with increased angiotensin II (Ang II) levels, we evaluated the role of the adaptive immune system in mediating the enhanced thrombosis during Ang II–induced hypertension. Light/dye-induced thrombosis was induced in cremaster arterioles of wild-type, immunodeficient Rag-1
−/−
, CD8
+
, or CD4
+
lymphocyte-deficient and NADPH oxidase (gp91
phox
)–deficient mice implanted with an Ang II–loaded pump for 2 weeks. Chronic Ang II infusion enhanced arteriolar thrombosis in wild-type mice but not in Rag-1
−/−
, CD4
+
T-cell–deficient, or gp91
phox−/−
mice. CD8
+
T-cell
−/−
mice exhibited partial protection. Adoptive transfer of T cells derived from wild-type or gp91
phox−/−
mice into Rag-1
−/−
restored the prothrombotic phenotype induced by Ang II. T lymphocytes (CD4
+
and, to a lesser extent, CD8
+
) play a major role in mediating the accelerated microvascular thrombosis associated with Ang II–induced hypertension. NADPH oxidase–derived reactive oxygen species, produced by cells other than T lymphocytes, also appear critical for the Ang II–enhanced, T cell–dependent thrombosis response.
Validation of a Brachial Cuff-Based Method for Estimating Central Systolic Blood Pressure
Authors: Weber Thomas , Wassertheurer Siegfried , Rammer Martin , Maurer Edwin , Hametner Bernhard , Mayer Christopher C. , Kropf Johannes , Eber Bernd
Published: September 2011

The prognostic value of central systolic blood pressure has been established recently. At present, its noninvasive assessment is limited by the need of dedicated equipment and trained operators. Moreover, ambulatory and home blood pressure monitoring of central pressures are not feasible. An algorithm enabling conventional automated oscillometric blood pressure monitors to assess central systolic pressure could be of value. We compared central systolic pressure, calculated with a transfer-function like method (ARCSolver algorithm), using waveforms recorded with a regular oscillometric cuff suitable for ambulatory measurements, with simultaneous high-fidelity invasive recordings, and with noninvasive estimations using a validated device, operating with radial tonometry and a generalized transfer function. Both studies revealed a good agreement between the oscillometric cuff-based central systolic pressure and the comparator. In the invasive study, composed of 30 patients, mean difference between oscillometric cuff/ARCSolver-based and invasive central systolic pressures was 3.0 mm Hg (SD: 6.0 mm Hg) with invasive calibration of brachial waveforms and −3.0 mm Hg (SD: 9.5 mm Hg) with noninvasive calibration of brachial waveforms. Results were similar when the reference method (radial tonometry/transfer function) was compared with invasive measurements. In the noninvasive study, composed of 111 patients, mean difference between oscillometric cuff/ARCSolver–derived and radial tonometry/transfer function–derived central systolic pressures was −0.5 mm Hg (SD: 4.7 mm Hg). In conclusion, a novel transfer function-like algorithm, using brachial cuff-based waveform recordings, is suited to provide a realistic estimation of central systolic pressure.
A Simple Kinematic Source of Skewness in Atmospheric Flow Fields
Authors: Luxford Fay , Woollings Tim
Published: September 2011

Geopotential height fields exhibit a well-known pattern of skewness, with distributions that are positively skewed on the poleward side of the midlatitude jets/storm tracks and negatively skewed on the equatorward side. This pattern has often been interpreted as a signature of nonlinear dynamical features, such as blocking highs and cutoff lows, and there is renewed interest in the higher moments of flow variables as indicators of the nature of the underlying dynamics. However, this paper suggests that skewness can arise as a simple kinematic consequence of the presence of jet streams and so may not be a reliable indicator of nonlinear dynamical behavior. In support of this, reanalysis data are analyzed to demonstrate a close link between the jet streams and the skewness patterns. Further evidence is provided by a simple stochastic kinematic model of a jet stream as a Gaussian wind profile. The parameters of this model are fitted to data from the reanalysis and also from an aquaplanet general circulation model. The skewness of the model’s geopotential height and zonal wind fields are then compared to those of the original data. This shows that a fluctuating jet stream can produce patterns of skewness that are qualitatively similar to those observed, although the magnitude of the skewness is significantly overestimated by the kinematic model. These results suggest that this simple kinematic effect does contribute to the observed patterns of skewness but that other processes (such as nonlinear dynamics) likely also play a role.
The Evolution of Climate Sensitivity and Climate Feedbacks in the Community Atmosphere Model
Authors: Gettelman A. , Kay J. E. , Shell K. M.
Published: September 2011

The major evolution of the National Center for Atmospheric Research Community Atmosphere Model (CAM) is used to diagnose climate feedbacks, understand how climate feedbacks change with different physical parameterizations, and identify the processes and regions that determine climate sensitivity. In the evolution of CAM from version 4 to version 5, the water vapor, temperature, surface albedo, and lapse rate feedbacks are remarkably stable across changes to the physical parameterization suite. However, the climate sensitivity increases from 3.2 K in CAM4 to 4.0 K in CAM5. The difference is mostly due to (i) more positive cloud feedbacks and (ii) higher CO2 radiative forcing in CAM5. The intermodel differences in cloud feedbacks are largest in the tropical trade cumulus regime and in the midlatitude storm tracks. The subtropical stratocumulus regions do not contribute strongly to climate feedbacks owing to their small area coverage. A “modified Cess” configuration for atmosphere-only model experiments is shown to reproduce slab ocean model results. Several parameterizations contribute to changes in tropical cloud feedbacks between CAM4 and CAM5, but the new shallow convection scheme causes the largest midlatitude feedback differences and the largest change in climate sensitivity. Simulations with greater cloud forcing in the mean state have lower climate sensitivity. This work provides a methodology for further analysis of climate sensitivity across models and a framework for targeted comparisons with observations that can help constrain climate sensitivity to radiative forcing.
Postinfectious Gastroparesis
Authors: Yeh Joanna , Wozniak Laura J. , Vargas Jorge H. , Ament Marvin E.
Published: September 2011

Postinfectious gastroparesis (PIGP) is a subgroup of idiopathic gastroparesis rarely reported in adolescents. This study describes 3 adolescent females with severe PIGP, who each underwent extensive workup prior to referral to a pediatric gastroenterologist. PIGP may be an underrecognized disorder in pediatrics, particularly in adolescents, and if untreated, can lead to significant morbidity.
Thanks for Asking, but Let’s Talk About Something Else
Authors: Donovan-Kicken Erin , Guinn Trey D. , Romo Lynsey Kluever , Ciceraro Lea D. L.
Published: September 2011

When people engage in explicit topic avoidance, they risk offending or hurting others. Using a goals theoretical framework, we examined how goal-relevant message features influenced participants’ reactions to hypothetical topic-avoidance messages. Participants in this experiment ( N = 536) responded to messages that friends might use to deflect a question about a stressful situation. Five types of messages reflected conventionally relevant interaction goals. Results indicated that message features influenced reactions (e.g., judgments of competence, and emotional and verbal responses) and that messages were generally perceived as more competent if they featured secondary relational and identity goals while simultaneously expressing the desire to avoid the subject. Certain secondary goals (e.g., expressing appreciation for the friend’s concern) were especially well received compared with others.
Infiltrative cervical lesions causing symptomatic occipital neuralgia
Authors: Sierra-Hidalgo F , Ruíz J , Morales-Cartagena A , Martínez-Salio A , Serna J de la , Hernández-Gallego J
Published: September 2011

Background: Occipital neuralgia is a well-recognized cause of posterior head and neck pain that may associate mild sensory changes in the cutaneous distribution of the occipital nerves, lacking a recognizable local structural aetiology in most cases. Atypical clinical features or an abnormal neurological examination are alerts for a potential underlying cause of pain, although cases of clinically typical occipital neuralgia as isolated manifestation of lesions of the cervical spinal cord, cervical roots, or occipital nerves have been increasingly reported.

Case reports: We describe two cases (one with typical and another one with atypical clinical features) of occipital neuralgia secondary to paravertebral pyomyositis and vertebral relapse of multiple myeloma in patients with relevant medical history that aroused the possibility of an underlying structural lesion.

Discussion: We discuss the need for cranio-cervical magnetic resonance imaging in all patients with occipital neuralgia, even when typical clinical features are present and neurological examination is completely normal.
Absence of changes in cortical thickness in patients with migraine
Authors: Datta Ritobrato , Detre John A , Aguirre Geoffrey K , Cucchiara Brett
Published: September 2011

Objective: Previous studies have reported gray matter alterations in patients with migraine, particularly thinning of the cingulate gyrus, and thickening of the somatosensory cortex (SSC) and visual motion processing areas (V3A/MT+). We attempted to replicate these findings in a larger patient population.

Methods: Brain anatomy was collected with 3T MRI. Surface-based morphometry was used to segment each brain volume, reconstruct and inflate the cortical sheet, and estimate gray matter thickness.

Results: Eighty-four age and sex-matched participants (28 migraine with aura, 28 migraine without aura, and 28 controls) were studied. No significant differences in somatosensory, cingulate gyrus, or V3A/MT+ cortical thickness were found between the groups, including analysis of specific subregions previously reported to be affected. Whole brain analysis found no regions of differential gray matter thickness between groups. A highly significant inverse correlation between age and whole brain and regional cortical thickness was identified. Power analyses indicate that even a small difference (∼0.07 to 0.14 mm) in cortical thickness could have been detected between groups given the sample size.

Interpretation: Using highly sensitive surface-based morphometry, no differences in cortical thickness between patients with migraine and controls could be identified.
A readiness level approach to manufacturing technology development in the aerospace sector: an industrial approach
Authors: Ward M J , Halliday S T , Foden J
Published: September 2011

The use of readiness levels to describe system maturity has become an increasingly recognizable element of the development of technologies for future products in the aerospace and defence sectors. Technology readiness levels (TRLs), as originally defined by NASA, are now widely used by global organizations to articulate the relative maturity of key generic technologies. The implementation of radically new manufacturing capability can also benefit from such an approach. However, the direct use of TRLs in a manufacturing environment is problematic on the basis that it is hard to interpret them precisely, and because the effectiveness of the technology itself is only one of a number of success factors associated with a successful implementation. For several years now the aerospace industry has recognized the need for a manufacturing specific readiness interpretation to enable the delivery of new capabilities in a defined sequence of events. This paper describes an approach used within a single aerospace organization, Rolls-Royce plc. The framework has been identified as a good practice by the UK Aerospace Design and Manufacturing National Technical Committee.
Adaptive control for improved efficiency of hydraulic systems for high-speed tilting trains
Authors: Jacazio G , Risso D , Sorli M , Tomassini L
Published: September 2011

Tilting trains are a mature technology using either hydraulic or electrical actuation to perform carbody tilting to reduce centrifugal force in curves at passengers level, thereby maintaining a good passenger comfort at enhanced service speed. The hydraulic actuation systems used in tilting trains operate at constant pressure, which is established to allow operation against the maximum loads at minimum ambient temperatures. However, these conditions occur seldom and unnecessary power is dissipated as heat under normal operating conditions that typically occur for more than 95 per cent of the service time. A research activity was performed to define a variable pressure system which adapts the discharge pressure as a function of the outside temperature and of the force to be developed by the actuators. In this system, the variable pressure is established as a function of an appropriate control strategy in order to minimize the power losses while keeping the required dynamic performance. This system architecture enables the tilting actuation system to save from 25 per cent to 50 per cent power for its operation depending on the severity of the track and on the operating conditions. This power saving is a small fraction (0.3–0.5 per cent) of the maximum traction power, but it is a large saving (10–20 per cent) of theelectrical power required by the train auxiliary systems. The electrical accumulators and the 400 V/50 Hz generators can thus be made smaller reducing the weight and facilitating the components installation. Moreover, lower average heat dissipation and lower average system pressure lead to a reduction of size and weight of the heat exchanger and to lower stresses in the system components. The overall weight reduction on its turn leads to an indirect power saving.

This article presents a description of the system and of the control strategy providing the adaptivity of the pump discharge pressure and the simulations of the system behaviour at different environmental conditions. This is done for a train in service along tracks for which the time histories of train speed, acceleration, and tilt angles were known.
Aero-structural Design Optimization of a Morphing Wingtip
Authors: Falcão Luís , Gomes Alexandra A. , Suleman Afzal
Published: September 2011

Over the past few years, better knowledge of aerodynamics and structures and the permanent need to improve the performance and efficiency of aircraft have led to the generalized adoption of wingtip devices. The requirements faced by wingtip devices throughout the various flight conditions are, however, different. A static wingtip device (as is the case with existing designs) must be a compromise of these various conflicting requirements, resulting in less than optimal effectiveness in each flight condition. A morphing device, on the other hand, can adapt to the optimum configuration for each flight condition, leading to improved effectiveness. This article presents a morphing wingtip mechanism based on a servo-actuated articulated winglet, able to rotate about two different axes: vertical axis (toe angle) and aircraft’s longitudinal axis (cant angle). These can be controlled independently by servo-actuators. The wingtip behavior is a function of aerodynamic and structural loads which, in turn, are interdependent, requiring a multidisciplinary design optimization procedure in order to determine the ideal wingtip configuration for each case. The proposed concept is applied to a multi-mission unmanned aerial vehicle and the results show that a morphing wingtip can outperform an optimum fixed design. The optimum geometries for the different flight missions are presented and the feasibility of such a morphing wingtip is confirmed by a prototype. The performance metrics of the morphing wingtip are compared to those of a fixed wingtip to quantify the gain associated with the use of the morphing concept and it is seen that the improvement can reach 25%.
Pressurized artificial muscles
Authors: Zhang Zhiye , Philen Michael
Published: September 2011

Pressurized artificial muscles are reviewed. These actuators consist of stiff reinforcing fibers surrounding an elastomeric bladder and operate using a pressurized internal fluid. The pressurized artificial muscles, known as McKibben actuators or flexible matrix composite actuators, can be applied to a wide array of applications, including prosthetics/orthotics, robots, morphing wing technologies, and variable stiffness structures. Analytical models for predicting the response behavior have used both virtual work methods and continuum mechanics. Various nonlinear control algorithms have been developed, including sliding mode control (SMC), adaptive control, neural networks, etc. In addition to traditional fluid-driving methods, innovative techniques such as chemical and electrical driving techniques are reviewed. With improved manufacturing techniques, the operational life of pressurized artificial muscles has been significantly extended, thus making them suitable for a vast range of potential applications.
Identification of dual notches based on time-reversal lamb waves and a damage diagnostic imaging algorithm
Authors: Miao Xiaoting , Wang Dong , Ye Lin , Lu Ye , Li Fucai , Meng Guang
Published: September 2011

An integration of time-reversal Lamb wave signals from a sensor network and a damage diagnostic imaging algorithm is developed to identify dual notches in an aluminum plate. The time reversibility of Lamb waves for one wave propagation path in an aluminum plate is investigated using dynamic finite element analysis (FEA). A time-reversal-based damage index (DI) is calibrated by correlation of the reconstructed waveform and the original activated tone burst, when the fundamental symmetric (S0) mode alone is reversed or when both the S0 mode and the fundamental antisymmetric (A0) mode are reversed. Simulation results demonstrate that the calibrated DI is almost identical for the time reversal of single or multiple Lamb modes. On the basis of the time reversibility of Lamb waves, dual notches in an aluminum plate are identified using the damage diagnostic imaging algorithm in the experiment. With the availability of time-reversal-based DI for individual sensing paths on the aluminum plate, the probability values for the presence of dual notches are estimated in the inspected area enclosed by the sensor network. Identification results demonstrate that the integrated approach with time-reversal Lamb waves and the damage diagnostic imaging algorithm is independent of additional benchmark signals, and it can be used confidently to locate multiple instances of damage.
An Impact Protective Structure with Bistable Links
Authors: Cherkaev Andrej , Leelavanichkul Seubpong
Published: September 2011

This article discusses a protective structure of a special morphology with an advanced impact resistance. We use a ‘bistable’ structure that is designed to have a non-unique stress–strain relation. When the strain reaches a threshold, some parts (sacrificial elements) yield and subsequently fail and the remaining parts (waiting elements) become active; the waiting elements carry the load and preserve structural integrity. Damage in bistable structures is more stable; the cracks do not develop due to yielding of structural elements and damage delocalization. The damage spreads in a larger region than in a conventional structure, and the load is redistributed. As a result of these effects, more impact energy is absorbed. We describe the response of bistable structures in macro- and microscales, numerically investigate a problem of projectile impacting a protective net, and introduce a mesoscale damage tensor that measures the degree of damage in a small region. We compare the structural responses of the bistable and conventional structure depending on mass and speed of the projectile. Typically, the bistable structure dissipates more energy by creating a partial damage in a large area.
Study on Anisotropic Fatigue Damage Model of Metal Component
Authors: Miao Zhang , Qingchun Meng , Weiping Hu , Xing Zhang
Published: September 2011

First of all, the boom–panel model is constructed to describe the anisotropic damage evolution of continuum volume element. The constitutive relation of continuum volume element is represented by damage extent of the booms and panels. Furthermore, based on irreversible thermodynamics, damage evolution equations of boom and panel are constructed. The fatigue life prediction method for smooth specimen under the repeated loading with constant strain amplitude is constructed. By the theory of conservative integral in damage mechanics, the fatigue life prediction method for notched specimen under the repeated loading with constant amplitude is obtained. Using these methods, the material parameters of LC4CS aluminum alloy in the damage evolution equation can be obtained by the mean values of experimental fatigue curves of standard specimens with KT = 1, K T = 3, and K T = 5. The computational results are in accordance with the experiment data.
Accountability, monitoring and surveillance: Body regulation in elite sport
Authors: Cosh Suzanne , Crabb Shona , LeCouteur Amanda , Kettler Lisa
Published: September 2011

Regulation of athletes’ bodies is commonplace in sporting environments, despite evidence that athletes have a higher risk of developing disordered eating than non-athletes. This article explores how athletes’ bodies are regulated in practice, building on examinations of body surveillance in other contexts. Over 40 interactions occurring during body monitoring are analysed. Athletes, pre-emptively or following an explicit request, accounted for their body regulatory behaviours, also working to produce positive athlete identities. Failing to produce an account of improvement was interactionally problematic, making visible athletes’ accountability to the institute to regulate their bodies. Implications of body regulatory practices are discussed.
The Improvement of Ventilation Behaviours in Kitchens of Residential Buildings
Authors: Lee Hyunsoo , Lee Youn Jae , Park So Yun , Kim Yu Won , Lee Yeunsook
Published: September 2011

This research investigated resident behaviours in relation to kitchen ventilation in residential buildings in order to improve kitchen indoor air quality (IAQ) in South Korean living spaces. The research involved a survey study of 182 households, which identified resident behaviour with respect to ventilation, their satisfaction level regarding the IAQ, and their use and maintenance of range hoods in the kitchens. This paper describes the kitchen CO2 concentrations with both natural and mechanical ventilation. The adequacy of the ventilation behaviour was determined by monitoring the CO2 concentration and ventilation behaviours in 10 sampled households of residential buildings. The results showed that natural ventilation was conducted for less than 20 min once a day and that 23.3% of respondents used both natural ventilation and mechanical ventilators. Moreover, the results demonstrated that mechanical ventilators were not properly maintained. In addition, the average CO2 concentration was greater than 1000 ppm during cooking, and natural ventilation was more effective than were mechanical ventilators. Most residents performed inadequate kitchen ventilation to achieve comfortable IAQ. This study suggests ways to improve the ventilation behaviours of residents. The findings of this research should aid in the development of IAQ standards for Korean residential buildings and may contribute to the establishment of ventilation guidelines.
Silent places, silent plans: Silent signification and the study of place transformation
Authors: Van Assche Kristof , Costaglioli Felip
Published: September 2011

In this paper, we explore the importance of silence in planning, an endeavor we deem relevant in an era where communication and planning are seen as nearly equivalent. We investigate the meanings and functions of silence in the interpretation of plans, planned space and the planning process. We distinguish silence in the literal sense, as absence of sound, and metaphorical silence, representing other forms of absence: of other voices, of oppressed discourse, of intentionality. The paradoxical nature of silence, as potential fullness and emptiness of meaning, increases complexity and unpredictability in the interpretation of space, plans and the planning process. It is argued that a process of participatory planning, including many actors, documents and interpretations of space, necessarily multiplies the ambiguities introduced by silence. This creates steering problems for planners, but it also introduces openness and flexibility. Silence can have the positive function of stretching up the interpretations of space, plans and the process.
Enhancement of fatigue crack monitoring by surface acoustic wave reflection and modulation in a space-cycle-load domain: an imaging approach
Authors: Connolly GD , Rokhlin SI
Published: September 2011

The surface wave acoustic method is applied to the in situ ultrasonic monitoring (during fatigue) of fatigue crack initiation and evolution. A small low-frequency periodic loading is also applied, resulting in a nonlinear modulation of reflected pulses. The acoustic wave reflections are collected for: each experimental cycle; a range of applied fatigue and modulation load levels; and a range of spatial propagation positions, and are presented in image form to aid pattern identification. Salient features of the image are then extracted and processed to evaluate the initiation time of the crack, its opening/closing behavior and its subsequent size evolution until sample failure. This image representation improves the visibility of the small-crack reflectivity pattern and thus enhances the detectability of small cracks.
Influence of nano titanium dioxide finish, prepared by sol-gel technique, on the ultraviolet protection, antimicrobial, and self-cleaning characteristics of cotton fabrics
Authors: Sundaresan K , Sivakumar A , Vigneswaran C , Ramachandran T
Published: September 2011

The performance of ultraviolet (UV) protection, antimicrobial activity, and self-cleaning characteristics of nano titanium dioxide (TiO2) with acrylic binder were assessed on the cotton fabric using pad-dry-cure method. Titanium iso-propoxide was used as precursor with two different mediums of water and ethanol to synthesize nano-sol by sol-gel technique. The synthesized nano-sol-gel was then characterized by using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, particle size analyzer (PSA), X-ray powder diffractometry (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The nano TiO2 finished cotton fabrics were tested for ultraviolet protection factor (UPF), antimicrobial activity, self-cleaning action, and physical properties. The wash fastness of TiO2 nano finished cotton fabrics for 5th, 10th, 15th, and 20th washes was assessed and also their ultra protection factor values and the percentage reduction in bacteria in each stage were reported. The self-cleaning activity was assessed for 12 hours, 24 hours, and 48 hours duration by exposing coffee stain on the specimen fabrics to sunlight. The TiO2 nanoparticles had 12 nm when ethanol medium was used and 7 nm for water. The smaller nanoparticles had showed better results regards antimicrobial activity and self-cleaning. In case of UV-protection function it was found that the fabrics treated with 12 nm nanoparticles exhibit higher UPF values than the fabric treated with 7 nm nanoparticles. The durability of the imparted function was in the range of 32–36 washes for antimicrobial activity and UV-protection property.
A statistical method for the relative comparison of automotive paint colours using digital imaging analysis
Authors: Seubert C M , Nichols M E , Ellwood K
Published: September 2011

Relative colour comparisons were performed using digital imaging techniques and analysis. A statistical method was used to quantify how well a test colour matched a colour standard. Colour histogram comparisons were performed by incorporating a combination of control limits (based on prediction intervals) and threshold limits that were calculated for each curve set. Test colours were imaged and compared to colour standards by calculating the per cent match for each of the RGB curves. Colours that did not show a per cent match of 60 per cent or greater in all three colour curves were considered failures. Some colour families, e.g. reds, required larger control limits to account for colour variability.
Effects of TLR agonists on maturation and function of 3-day dendritic cells from AML patients in complete remission
Authors: Beck Barbara , Dörfel Daniela , Lichtenegger Felix S , Geiger Christiane , Lindner Lysann , Merk Martina , Schendel Dolores J , Subklewe Marion
Published: September 2011

Background

Active dendritic cell (DC) immunization protocols are rapidly gaining interest as therapeutic options in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Here we present for the first time a GMP-compliant 3-day protocol for generation of monocyte-derived DCs using different synthetic Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists in intensively pretreated patients with AML.

Methods

Four different maturation cocktails were compared for their impact on cell recovery, phenotype, cytokine secretion, migration, and lymphocyte activation in 20 AML patients and 25 healthy controls.

Results

Maturation cocktails containing the TLR7/8 agonists R848 or CL075, with and without the addition of the TLR3 agonist poly(I:C), induced DCs that had a positive costimulatory profile, secreted high levels of IL-12(p70), showed chemotaxis to CCR7 ligands, had the ability to activate NK cells, and efficiently stimulated antigen-specific CD8+ T cells.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that this approach translates into biologically improved DCs, not only in healthy controls but also in AML patients. This data supports the clinical application of TLR-matured DCs in patients with AML for activation of innate and adaptive immune responses.
The updating of clinical practice guidelines: insights from an international survey
Authors: Alonso-Coello Pablo , Martínez García Laura , Carrasco José Miguel , Solà Ivan , Qureshi Safia , Burgers Jako S ,   the Updating Guidelines Working Group
Published: September 2011

Background

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) have become increasingly popular, and the methodology to develop guidelines has evolved enormously. However, little attention has been given to the updating process, in contrast to the appraisal of the available literature. We conducted an international survey to identify current practices in CPG updating and explored the need to standardize and improve the methods.

Methods

We developed a questionnaire (28 items) based on a review of the existing literature about guideline updating and expert comments. We carried out the survey between March and July 2009, and it was sent by email to 106 institutions: 69 members of the Guidelines International Network who declared that they developed CPGs; 30 institutions included in the U.S. National Guideline Clearinghouse database that published more than 20 CPGs; and 7 institutions selected by an expert committee.

Results

Forty-four institutions answered the questionnaire (42% response rate). In the final analysis, 39 completed questionnaires were included. Thirty-six institutions (92%) reported that they update their guidelines. Thirty-one institutions (86%) have a formal procedure for updating their guidelines, and 19 (53%) have a formal procedure for deciding when a guideline becomes out of date. Institutions describe the process as moderately rigorous (36%) or acknowledge that it could certainly be more rigorous (36%). Twenty-two institutions (61%) alert guideline users on their website when a guideline is older than three to five years or when there is a risk of being outdated. Twenty-five institutions (64%) support the concept of "living guidelines," which are continuously monitored and updated. Eighteen institutions (46%) have plans to design a protocol to improve their guideline-updating process, and 21 (54%) are willing to share resources with other organizations.

Conclusions

Our study is the first to describe the process of updating CPGs among prominent guideline institutions across the world, providing a comprehensive picture of guideline updating. There is an urgent need to develop rigorous international standards for this process and to minimize duplication of effort internationally.
The prevalence of canine Leishmania infantum infection in Sichuan Province, southwestern China detected by real time PCR
Authors: Shang Li-min , Peng Wei-ping , Jin Hong-tao , Xu Ding , Zhong Ni-na , Wang Wen-long , Wu You-xi , Liu Quan
Published: September 2011

Background

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is endemic in western China, and becoming an important public health concern. Infected dogs are the main reservoir for Leishmania infantum, and a potential sentinel for human VL in endemic areas. In the present study we investigated the prevalence of Leishmania DNA in dogs from Wenchuan, Heishui and Jiuzhaigou County in Sichuan Province, southwestern China, which are important endemic areas of zoonotic VL, detected by real time PCR. The results will help to design control strategies against visceral leishmaniasis in dogs and humans.

Results

The overall prevalence of Leishmania DNA in dogs was 24.8% (78/314) in Sichuan Province, with the positive rate of 23.5% (23/98) in Wenchuan County, 28.2% (20/71) in Heishui County, and 24.1% (35/145) in Jiuzhaigou County, and no significant difference was observed among the three counties (P > 0.05). The dogs were further allocated to different groups based on sexes, ages and external clinical symptoms. The logistic regression analysis revealed that a higher prevalence was found in older and external symptomatic dogs, compared to that of younger and asymptomatic dogs (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The results revealed that L. infantum infection in dogs is widespread in Sichuan Province, southwestern China, which has a public health significance, due to its contribution to the transmission of the infection to humans by sandflies. It is necessary to take measures, including treatment or eradication of infected dogs, to control canine leishmaniasis, which could be helpful to reduce human VL in this area.
Prognosis of Patients With Breast Cancer: Causes of Death and Effects of Time Since Diagnosis, Age, and Tumor Characteristics
Authors: Colzani Edoardo , Liljegren Annelie , Johansson Anna L.V. , Adolfsson Jan , Hellborg Henrik , Hall Per F.L. , Czene Kamila
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The proportion of women living with a diagnosis of breast cancer in developed countries is increasing. Because breast cancer–specific deaths decrease with time since diagnosis, it is important to assess the burden of other causes of death in women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Methods

Different causes of death within 10 years from diagnosis were assessed in 12,850 women younger than 75 years of age with stage 1 to 3 breast cancer diagnosed in Stockholm and Gotland regions 1990 to 2006. Flexible parametric survival models were used to estimate hazard ratios over time since diagnosis by tumor characteristics and age at diagnosis.

Results

The proportion of deaths attributed to breast cancer ranged from 95.0% among women younger than age 45 years at diagnosis to 44.5% among women age 65 to 74 years. The proportions of circulatory system–specific deaths and deaths resulting from other causes increased with older age at diagnosis. Patients with one to three positive lymph nodes were more likely to die as a result of breast cancer during the first 10 years of follow-up compared with women without positive lymph nodes. Women with estrogen receptor (ER) –positive tumors had the same risk of dying as a result of breast cancer 5 years after diagnosis compared with women with ER-negative tumors.

Conclusion

Lymph node negativity is an important long-term predictor of more favorable prognosis. The nature of the relationship between ER status and risk of dying as a result of breast cancer after 5 years of follow-up requires further investigation. Circulatory system diseases are an important cause of death, especially in women diagnosed with breast cancer at an older age.