bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
State of Acute Agitation at Psychiatric Emergencies in Europe: The STAGE Study
Authors: San Luis , Marksteiner Josef , Zwanzger Peter , Figuero María Aragüés , Romero Francisco Toledo , Kyropoulos Grigorios , Peixoto Alberto Bessa , Chirita Roxana , Boldeanu Anca
Published: November 2016

Background:

Agitation is an array of syndromes and types of behaviors that are common in patients with psychiatric disorders. In Europe, the estimation of prevalence of agitation has been difficult due to the lack of standard studies or systematic data collection done on this syndrome.

Objective:

An observational, cross-sectional, multicenter study aimed to assess the prevalence of agitation episodes in psychiatric emergencies in different European countries.

Method:

For 1 week, all episodes of acute agitation that were attended to at the psychiatric emergency room (ER) or Acute Inpatient Unit (AIU) in the 27 participating centers were registered. The clinical characteristics and management of the agitation episode were also described. A descriptive analysis was performed.

Results:

A total of 334 agitation episodes out of 7295 psychiatric emergencies were recorded, giving a prevalence rate of 4.6% (95% CI: 4.12-5.08). Of them, 172 [9.4% (95% CI: 8.2-10.9)] were attended at the ER and 162 [2.8% (95% CI: 2.4-3.3)] at AIU. Only data from 165 episodes of agitation (those with a signed informed consent form) was registered and described in this report. The most common psychiatric conditions associated with agitation were schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and personality disorder. The management of agitation included from non-invasive to more coercive measures (mechanical, physical restraint or seclusion) that were unavoidable in more than half of the agitation episodes (59.5%).

Conclusion:

The results show that agitation is a common symptom in the clinical practice, both in emergency and inpatient psychiatric departments. Further studies are warranted to better recognize (using a standardized definition) and characterize agitation episodes.
Correlation between Diastolic Function and Endothelial Function in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Hypertension
Authors: Bedirian Ricardo , Neves Mario Fritsch , Oigman Wille , Gismondi Ronaldo Altenburg Odebrecht Curi , Pozzobon Cesar Romaro , Ladeira Marcia Cristina Boaventura , Castier Marcia Bueno
Published: November 2016

Background:

Endothelial dysfunction may be involved in the pathophysiology of cardiac abnormalities in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). A correlation between endothelial dysfunction and diastolic dysfunction in patients with type 1 DM has been demonstrated, but this relationship has not been well investigated in type 2 DM.

Objective:

Compare groups of patients with type 2 DM and hypertension with and without diastolic dysfunction using endothelial function indexes, and to assess whether correlations exist between the diastolic function and the endothelial function indexes.

Method:

This was a cross-sectional study of 34 men and women with type 2 DM and hypertension who were aged between 40 and 70 years and were categorized based on assessments of their Doppler echocardiographic parameters as having normal (14 patients) and abnormal (20 patients) diastolic function. Flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) assessments of the brachial artery evaluated the patients’ endothelial function.

Results:

The mean maximum FMD was 7.15 ± 2.80% for the patients with diastolic dysfunction and it was 11.85 ± 4.77% for the patients with normal diastolic function (p = 0.004). Correlations existed between the maximum FMD and the E/e' ratio (p = 0.040, r = -0.354) and the early wave velocity (e') at the lateral mitral annulus (p = 0.002, r = 0.509).

Conclusion:

The endothelial function assessed by FMD was worse in hypertensive diabetic patients with diastolic dysfunction. There were correlations between the diastolic function indexes and the endothelial function indexes in our sample.
Security Complex Indonesia-Australia dan Pengaruhnya terhadap Dinamika Hubungan Kedua Negara
Authors: Setyawati Siti Muti’ah , Agussalim Dafri
Published: November 2016

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menemukan karakter security complex atau the pattern of amity andenmity antara Indonesia dan Australia. Secara garis besar aspek amity (kerjasama) antara kedua negara jauh lebih dominan dari pada aspek enmity-nya (permusuhan). Metode utama yang digunakan untuk menganalisis ada tidaknya hubungan kausalitas antara independent variable dandependent variable yaitu metode interpretive analytic dengan logika berpikir inductive. Pelajaran yang dapat diambil yaitu; pertama, kita tidak bisa bertindak berdasarkan harapan bahwa pihak lain akan berbuat baik pada kita. Kedua, seharusnya sejak awal kita memfokuskan diplomasikita untuk mencegah agar Australia tidak melakukan tindakan yang merugikan Indonesia. Ketiga, kita harus memahami bangsa dan negara tersebut di segala aspeknya, khususnya dinamika politik domestiknya secara lebih dalam dan lebih kritis lagi
Intervensi Penyelenggaraan Pemilukada: Regulasi, Sumberdaya dan Eksekusi
Authors: Nuryanti Sri
Published: November 2016

Keputusan untuk menyelenggarakan pilkada serentak yang diadakan pada tanggal 9 Desember2015 merupakan bagian dari diskursus besar untuk memperbaharui sistem pemilu sehingga sistem itu paling sesuai dengan Indonesia dan khususnya mampu menjawab berbagai isu khususnya terkait dengan efisiensi dari segi pembiayaan pilkada dan efektifi tas penyelenggaraan pilkada. Diskursus pilkada yang muncul di akhir 2014 penting untuk melihat bagaimana diskursus itu telah didiskusikan menyeluruh khususnya berdasarkan fakta bahwa ada banyak pemimpin lokal yang mempunyai kualitas rendah yang dihasilkan oleh pilkada yang diselenggarakan secara langsung. Kajian ini akan mengupas intervensi penyelenggaraan pilkada langsung, dengan memperhatikan kemampuan sumberdaya daerah, kemampuan keuangan dan pelaksanaan pilkada di lapangan. Tulisan ini mengisyaratkan perlunya intervensi baik regulatif maupun teknis agar pilkada yang diselenggarakan di daerah dengan beragam kondisi tersebut dapat menghasilkan kepala daerah dan wakil kepala daerah yang lebih berkualitas.
Analisis Keberlanjutan dan Pola Pengembangan Co-Operative Entrepreneurship Lembaga Keuangan Mikro Agribisnis (LKM-A)
Authors: Utami Ratih Apri
Published: November 2016

Pada tahun 2008 pemerintah melaksanakan program Pengembangan Usaha Agribisnis Perdesaan(PUAP) yang disalurkan melalui Gapoktan sebesar 100 juta rupiah. Dana PUAP bertujuan sebagai stimulus agar dapat ditumbuhkan menjadi Lembaga Keuangan Mikro Agribisnis (LKM-A) untuk keberlanjutan pembiayaan untuk petani. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis proses penumbuhan LKM-A dan keberlanjutan LKM-A berdasarkan pendekatan kelembagaan, finansialdan nasabah, serta mengembangkan pendekatan yang dibutuhkan LKM-A menuju Co-operative Entrepreneurship. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa LKM-A Gapoktan Sejahtera sudah memiliki keberlanjutan kelembagaan melalui manajemen organisasi dan skema pembiayaan selama satu musim tanam, keberlanjutan finansial didasarkan pada tingkat bunga/unit pinjaman lebih besar dari beban pembiayaan dan keberlanjutan nasabah melalui persepsi nasabah mengenai penyaluran, pemanfaatan dan pengembalian dana PUAP (Pengembangan Usaha Agribisnis Perdesaan). Pola pengembangan LKM-A menuju Co-operative Entrepreneurship diawali melalui proses penumbuhan LKM-A, analisis keberlanjutan berdasarkan pendekatan lembaga, finansial, nasabah untuk kemudian dikembangkan pola materi kurikulum kelompok kepada pelaku sentral yaitu Ketua Gapoktan, Ketua LKM-A, dan Ketua Kelompok Tani untuk mengikuti sekolah lapang yang terdiri dari pelatihan dan magang. Materi yang disusun disesuaikan potensi desa dan Sistem Informasi Pertanian yang disusun melalui kerjasama Kementrian Pertanian, Dinas Pertanian Kabupaten dan Perguruan tinggi.
Kodifikasi dan Efektivitas Kebĳakan Fiskal untuk Menurunkan Emisi Gas Rumah Kaca pada Industri Semen, Baja dan Pulp
Authors: Haryanto Joko Tri , Martawardaya Berly
Published: November 2016

Industrial activity is known as one of the major contributors of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Sources of GHG emissions from the industrial sector include energy inputinput, the inputinput of non-energy, industrial processes and industrial waste. Thus, the industrial sector, listed as one of the important sectors in the National Action Plan (NAP) Reduction of GHG emissions. Implementation of mitigation actions in the industrial sector clearly requires appropriate regulatory framework. The right combination of policy and fiscal instruments needed to encourage industry players become actively involved in the national eﬀort to reduce GHG emissions in Indonesia. The problem, the need for coordination regulations related eﬀorts to reduce GHG emissions in the industrial sector of each Ministry / Institutions (K / L) are associated in particular Ministry of Finance Regulation (PMK and the Regulation of the Minister of Industry (Permenindustri). For that study was conducted using the framework regulatory analysis for the creation of regulatory coordination between the PMK and Permenindustri. Through the codification mechanism, expectedd to increase the eﬀectiveness of fiscal policy to reduce GHG emissions in the industrial sector.
Diplomasi Ekonomi Indonesia dan Thailand terhadap Pasar Timur Tengah
Authors: Kurniawan Andi
Published: November 2016

Economic diplomacy as an instrument has been employed by Thailand to boost its export performance topartner countries, including to the Middle East region. Unlike Thailand, Indonesia the region’s largestMoslem country remains unable to capitalize on friendly relation with Middle East to boost its foreign trade.This study brought these facts into a research aimed at enriching the literatures of Indonesia’s economicrelations with Middle East. Research method used in the study was qualitative approach. It concluded thatdespite cultural diﬀ erences, Thailand is relatively successful in conducting economic diplomacy to promoteits top commodities to this market.
Kebangkitan Party ID: Analisis Perilaku Memilih dalam Politik Lokal di Indonesia
Authors: Haryanto Haryanto
Published: November 2016

This article explains that the party identiﬁ cation (party ID) has become the main factor of voting behaviorin local politics in Indonesia. Voters no longer dominant consider the proximity factor, both ethnic andregional proximity in determining vote choice, as a general conclusion that has been used to explain votingbehavioral in local politics in Indonesia. This article conﬁ rms that voters tend to conform to the party thenmake a choice their voices to candidates that are oﬀ ered by the party.
Sistem Klasiﬁ kasi dalam Pemutaran Film: Studi Kasus Klasiﬁ kasi Film di Kinoki
Authors: Anshari Irham Nur
Published: November 2016

This article concerns with the background, implementation, public acceptance and evaluation of theapplication of classification system as film regulation by Kinoki, an alternative screening space inYogyakarta (2005-2011). The research adopted in this article is case studies. From the studies it is seenthat the implementation of classiﬁ cation system at Kinoki is an eﬀ ort to protect ﬁ lm viewers, while theapplication itself is more as a guideline for the viewers, yet so far public awareness and acceptance to thissystem is limited.
Nahdlatul Ulama: Bebas untuk Oportunis? Menelisik Kontestasi Politik pada Pemilihan Kepala Daerah Kabupaten Banyumas Periode 2008 dan 2013
Authors: Febrina Rahmi Hasyﬁ , Mustika Bangun Udi , Dedees Adek Risma
Published: November 2016

Nahdlatul Ulama as a religious organization, as independence intermediary organs which is helped thepeople to represent their interest between public aﬀ airs to the state. NU is not seen as opportunistic religionorganization and a shamed organization cause of its ideology. More than, NU on politic arena, att empt to return as a religion organization which is has a greatest vission for making importance agenda and welfare of the members of a religion community (umat) life. Unbalancing support of NU at two periods of headof province or district election in Banyumas region on 2008 and 2013 explained that NU stood up to thefortiﬁ cation which likely could guarantee of NU’s interest. It does not care about ‘inconsistent’ stigmawhich is marked to NU. Thus, welfare and interest of umat are more importance than just having adorationas ‘consistence’ and ‘sportive’ religion organization in Banyumas, generally in politic arena. This researchis qualitative-interpretative approach. The method is used observation, indeep interview and also utilizingsecunder data and documentation matt ers.
Disorientasi Politik dan Peran Intermediary Kelas Menengah To Pulo: Politik Lokal di Kepulauan Selayar Pasca Orde Baru
Authors: Bakar Abu
Published: November 2016

This paper discusses the emergence of social movements To Pulo with the issue of a new government and thedevelopment of the New Order. Today, the issue is increasingly disappearing in local political discourse inKepulauan Selayar. This paper will explore how these things to happen to focus on the political disorientationand why the role of intermediary actors To Pulo weakened middle class. To explain this case, the use of socialmovement theory perspective of social identity theory and case study research method. The purpose of thispaper to describe a social movement To Pulo by answering questions; how To Pulo social movements?; Whydid political disorientation inside could be happened?; Why did middle-class intermediary role ﬁ zzle?. The conclusion is the disorientation caused by the absence of a strong commitment. And the weak role of the intermediary is caused by internal conﬂ icts To Pulo.
Zonasi Konservasi untuk Siapa? Pengaturan Perairan Laut Taman Nasional Bali Barat
Authors: Mahmud Amir , Satria Arif , Kinseng Rilus A.
Published: November 2016

The zoning is not as usual and natural issues but complicated processes that determines allowed andprohibited activities of resources user. From economic views, zonation could potentially take advantagesand disadvantages, and socially it create a conﬂ ict as consequence of limited accesses. This research asqualitative research aims to observe zones utilization and it impacts to marine resource users in Bali BaratNational Parks (BBNP). The results show that utilization of marine zoning in BBNP is to ecology-biology protection, tourist and ﬁ sheries with resources user namely Boarding of BBNP, tourist company and ﬁ shers. Zoning results in regulating user activities including limited activities.
Impossible Dialogue on Bio-power: Agamben and Foucault
Authors: Ojakangas Mika
Published: November 2016

In Homo Sacer, Giorgio Agamben criticizes Michel Foucault's distinction between 'productive' bio-power and 'deductive' sovereign power, emphasizing that it is not possible to distinguish between these two. In his view, the production of what he calls 'bare life' is the original, although concealed, activity of sovereign power. In this article, Agamben's conclusions are called into question. (1) The notion of 'bare life', distinguished from the 'form of life', belongs exclusively to the order of sovereignty, being incompatible with the modern bio-political notion of life, that is univocal and immanent to itself. In the era of bio-politics, life is already a bios that is only its own zoe ('form-of-life'). (2) Violence is not hidden in the foundation of bio-politics; the 'hidden' foundation of bio-politics is love (agape) and care (cura), 'care for individual life'. (3) Bio-politics is not absolutised in the Third Reich; the only thing that the Third Reich absolutises is the sovereignty of power (Aryan race) and the nakedness of life (the Jews). (4) St Paul's 'messianic revolution' does not endow us with the means of breaking away from the closure of bio-political rationality; on the contrary, Paul's 'messianic revolution' is a historical precondition for the deployment of modern bio-politics. (5) Instead of homo sacer, who is permitted to kill without committing homicide, the paradigmatic figure of the bio-political society can be seen, for example, in the middle-class Swedish social-democrat.
Foucault and Theology
Authors: McSweeney John
Published: November 2016

Exploration of the import for theology of the thought of Michel Foucault has been growing steadily in recent years, principally in relation to the Christian tradition. This article traces the evolution of this dialogue with his work, with a view to assessing its current state of development, highlighting the critical issues involved, and suggesting likely lines of investigation going forward. Having surveyed applications of aspects of his work to a variety of theological questions, and the discussion of his work under the rubric of 'postmodern theology', the article focuses upon the more in-depth theological engagement with his thought inaugurated by the work of James Bernauer and Jeremy Carrette. It is proposed that one of the most critical issues in this debate, currently and going forward, concerns assessment of the kind of relation to theology, if any, that can be extrapolated from Foucault's deployment of notions like 'spirituality' and his engagement with various theological themes.
Organized crime as a current security threat
Authors: Banovic Bozidar
Published: November 2016

Scientific and professional community, and political subjects, both at
national and at the international level have a unique position that organized
crime is now one of the most dangerous security threats. However, such
consent does not exist in terms of conceptual determination, identification,
dimensions and of choice of methods to counter organized crime. The first
part of this article describes the main trends in the conceptual definition
of organized crime, social and political context of the use of this term and
the subjects who have contributed to it becoming one of the main concepts of
modern scientific and professional discussions about crime. The second part
indicates the dynamics of organized crime as a security threat in the
territory of Europe, and the last part presents and analyzes the development
of organized crime in Serbia and attitudes of scientists and experts,
political entities and state bodies and institutions towards this phenomenon.
Experimental and theoretical study on spray behaviors of modified bio-ethanol fuel employing direct injection system
Authors: Ghahremani Amirreza , Ahari Mohammad , Jafari Mojtaba , Saidi Mohammad , Hajinezhad Ahmad , Mozaffari Ali
Published: November 2016

One of the key solutions to improve engine performance and reduce exhaust emissions of internal combustion engines is direct injection of bio-fuels. A new modified bio-ethanol is produced to be substituted by fossil fuels in gasoline direct injection engines. The key advantages of modified bio-ethanol fuel as an alternative fuel are higher octane number and oxygen content, a long-chain hydro-carbon fuel, and lower emissions compared to fossil fuels. In the present study spray properties of a modified bio-ethanol and its atomization behaviors have been studied experimentally and theoretically. Based on atomization physics of droplets dimensional analysis has been performed to develop a new non-dimensional number namely atomization index. This number determines the atomization level of the spray. Applying quasi-steady jet theory, air entrainment and fuel-air mixing studies have been performed. The spray atomization behaviors such as atomization index number, Ohnesorge number, and Sauter mean diameter have been investigated employing atomization model. The influences of injection and ambient conditions on spray properties of different blends of modified bio-ethanol and gasoline fuels have been investigated performing high-speed visualization technique. Results indicate that decreasing the difference of injection and ambient pressures increases spray cone angle and projected area, and decreases spray tip penetration length. As expected, increasing injection pressure improves atomization behaviors of the spray. Increasing percentage of modified bio-ethanol in the blend, increases spray tip penetration and decreases the projected area as well.
Thermal management evaluation of the complex electro-optical system
Authors: Nijemcevic Srecko , Tasic Milan , Livada Branko , Peric Dragana , Tasic Marko
Published: November 2016

The thermal management of a complex electro-optical system aimed for outdoor application is challenging task due to the requirement of having an air-sealed enclosure, harsh working environment, and an additional thermal load generated by sunlight. It is essential to consider the effect of heating loads in the system components, as well as the internal temperature distribution, that can have influence on the system life expectancy, operational readiness and parameters, and possibility for catastrophic failure. The main objective of this paper is to analyze internal temperature distribution and evaluate its influence on system component operation capability. The electro-optical system simplified model was defined and related thermal balance simulation model based on Solid Works thermal analysis module was set and applied for temperature distribution calculation. Various outdoor environment scenarios were compared to evaluate system temperature distribution and evaluate its influence on system operation, reliability, and life time in application environment. This work was done during the design process as a part of the electro-optical system optimization. The results show that temperature distribution will not be cause for catastrophic failure and malfunction operation during operation in the expected environment.
Evaluation of performance and emission features of Jatropha biodiesel -turpentine blend as green fuel
Authors: Loganathan Karikalan , Manoharan Chandrasekaran
Published: November 2016

An experimental study was conducted to measure the suitability of jatropha biodiesel-wood turpentine blend as a replacement for diesel fuel in a compression ignition engine. Tests were performed in a 4-stroke, single cylinder, air cooled Diesel engine. The results show that the performance factors for various blends were found to be near to diesel, emission features were improved and combustion characteristics were found to be comparable with diesel. The brake thermal efficiency of the blends establishes 9.2% lower than that of diesel at 75% load. Brake specific fuel consumption increases for blends at part load and remains same at full load. The CO, HC, and smoke emissions were reduced by 75, 64-78, and 33-66%, respectively, compared to diesel at 75% load. Nitric oxides were increased. Jatropha biodiesel-wood turpentine blends offered comparable performance and combustion features, reduced emissions and it is capable of replacing standard diesel in compression ignition engines.
Influence of turning parameters on cutting temperature by applying the design of experiments with the definition of the workpiece material behavior
Authors: Medina Nuria , Miguel Valentin , Manjabacas Maria , Martinez Alberto , Ayllon Jorge , Coello Juana
Published: November 2016

This paper evaluates the behavior of cutting temperature under the influence of specific cutting parameters by applying both Factorial Design and the Surface Response Methodology. Cutting speed, the feed rate and type of material were selected as input parameters to perform this study. As type of material is a non quantitative factor, it is necessary to establish a particular index to define it. Although different properties were analyzed, the average stress between the yield and strength stresses was demonstrated as the most representative property to describe material. The experimental values of temperatures during the turning process were obtained with an infrared thermography camera and experiments were designed to run the statistical analysis with commercial software. Both the Factorial Design and Surface Response methodologies showed the influence that specific values of the input parameters had on cutting temperatures. Factorial Design allowed more accurate results, but more experiments had to be carried out, while the Surface Response Methodology provided suitable information with fewer tests. A comparison was made between the experimental and some analytical results, for example those obtained by Cook, and showed a good agreement.
Comparison of paravertebral blockade techniques with and without ultrasound guidance in calves
Authors: Re Michela , Blanco-Murcia Javier , Villaescusa Alejandra , De Gaspar Ignacio , de Segura Ignacio A. Gómez
Published: November 2016

OBJECTIVE To compare the effectiveness of an ultrasound-guided paravertebral nerve blockade technique (UGPNB) with distal and proximal paravertebral nerve blockade techniques without ultrasound guidance (DPNB and PPNB, respectively) in calves.

ANIMALS 4 calf cadavers and 7 healthy calves.

PROCEDURES A suitable acoustic window was identified to facilitate access to the T13, L1, and L2 spinal nerves in cadavers and live calves. In cadavers, nerves were injected with dye under ultrasound guidance. In calves, the UGPNB, DPNB, and PPNB were performed in random order at 10-day intervals by injection of an anesthetic solution containing 2% lidocaine hydrochloride. Nociceptive withdrawal responses were assessed to determine the effects of the blockades.

RESULTS In cadavers, nerve staining success rates (ie, ≥ 2-cm-long dye path) achieved with ultrasound guidance were 88% (T13 [ventral branch]), 75% (T13 and L1 [dorsal branches] and L1 and L2 [ventral branches]), and 38% (L2 [dorsal branch]). The nerves were each identified as a hyperechoic band in a longitudinal plane. In calves, the UGPNB, DPNB, and PPNB reduced the withdrawal response to the noxious stimulus, mainly in the dorsal-cranial, dorsal-caudal, and ventral-cranial areas of the flank. Overall, the UGPNB resulted in a better nociceptive cumulative score, administering only one half of the local anaesthetic dose, compared with findings for the DPNB and PPNB. However, time to perform the UGPNB was longer.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE The UGPNB evaluated may be an improved alternative to the DPNB and PPNB for provision of anesthesia for flank surgery in calves. However, effectiveness of the UGPNB should be evaluated in a clinical setting and in adult cattle.
Assessment of left ventricular volume and function in healthy dogs by use of one-, two-, and three-dimensional echocardiography versus multidetector computed tomography
Authors: Scollan Katherine F. , Stieger-Vanegas Susanne M. , Sisson D. David
Published: November 2016

OBJECTIVE To compare left ventricle (LV) volume and function variables obtained by use of 1-D, 2-D, and real-time 3-D echocardiography versus ECG-gated multidetector row CT (MDCT) angiography, which was considered the criterion-referenced standard.

ANIMALS 6 healthy, purpose-bred dogs.

PROCEDURES Dogs were anesthetized and administered a constant rate infusion of esmolol, and 1-D, 2-D, and 3-D echocardiography and ECG-gated, contrast-enhanced MDCT were performed. End-diastolic volume (EDV), end-systolic volume (ESV), stroke volume, and ejection fraction (EF) were calculated by use of the Teichholz method for 1-D echocardiography, single-plane and biplane modified Simpson method of disks (MOD) and area-length method for 2-D echocardiography, and real-time biplane echocardiography (RTBPE) and real-time 3-D echocardiography (RT3DE) for 3-D echocardiography. Volumes were indexed to body surface area and body weight. Median values, correlations, and limits of agreement were compared between echocardiographic modalities and MDCT.

RESULTS EDV and ESV measured by use of RTBPE and RT3DE had the strongest correlations with results for MDCT. Values obtained for EDV, ESV, stroke volume, and EF did not differ significantly between echocardiographic methods and MDCT. Use of RT3DE and RTBPE slightly underestimated EDV, ESV, and EF, compared with values for MDCT, as determined with Bland-Altman analysis.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Values for EDV and ESV obtained by use of 3-D echocardiography, including RTBPE and RT3DE, had the highest correlation with slight underestimation, compared with values obtained by use of MDCT. This was similar to results for 3-D echocardiography in human medicine.
Quantitative analysis of brain perfusion in healthy dogs by means of magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Hartmann Antje , Driesen Agnes , Lautenschläger Ines E. , Scholz Volkher B. , Schmidt Martin J.
Published: November 2016

OBJECTIVE To determine values of perfusion parameters determined via MRI in the brains of healthy dogs.

ANIMALS 10 healthy adult Beagles.

PROCEDURES Each dog was anesthetized for MRI examination of the brain, including standard sequences and a perfusion-weighted sequence. Gadoteric acid (0.2 mmol/kg) was injected IV at a rate of 5 mL/s. A dedicated workstation was used to measure the times from contrast medium injection to arrival at an ROI (TO) and peak contrast enhancement (TTP), mean contrast medium transport time (MTT), and cerebral blood flow (CBF) in the caudate nucleus, thalamus, piriform lobe, hippocampus, semioval center, and temporal cerebral cortex. A simple mathematical model was used to compare parameter values among the various brain regions.

RESULTS T0 and time to peak contrast enhancement had a significant linear relationship. A significant negative correlation was identified between T0 and CBF and, to a lesser extent, between MTT and CBF. Differences among brain regions were significant for MTT and CBF. The CBF was lowest in the semioval center, and the piriform lobe had almost 2-fold the CBF of that region. No significant differences were identified between hemispheres of the brain.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Findings obtained in this study involving healthy dogs may serve as a reference for MRI perfusion measurements in specific brain regions and may help in the characterization of various brain diseases in dogs.
Elution of platinum from carboplatin-impregnated calcium sulfate hemihydrate beads in vitro
Authors: Tulipan Rachel J. , Phillips Heidi , Garrett Laura D. , Dirikolu Levent , Mitchell Mark A.
Published: November 2016

OBJECTIVE To characterize the elution of platinum from carboplatin-impregnated calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CSH) beads in vitro.

SAMPLE 60 carboplatin-impregnated CSH beads and 9 CSH beads without added carboplatin (controls).

PROCEDURES Carboplatin-impregnated CSH beads (each containing 4.6 mg of carboplatin [2.4 mg of platinum]) were placed into separate 10-mL plastic tubes containing 5 mL of PBSS in groups of 1, 3, 6, or 10; 3 control beads were placed into a single tube of PBSS at the same volume. Experiments were conducted in triplicate at 37°C and a pH of 7.4 with constant agitation. Eluent samples were collected at 1, 2, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 72 hours. Samples were analyzed for platinum content by inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry.

RESULTS The mean concentration of platinum released per carboplatin-impregnated bead over 72 hours was 445.3 mg/L. Cumulative concentrations of platinum eluted increased as the number of beads per tube increased. There was a significant difference in platinum concentrations over time, with values increasing over the first 12 hours and then declining for all tubes. There was also a significant difference in percentage of total incorporated platinum released into tubes with different numbers of beads: the percentage of eluted platinum was higher in tubes containing 1 or 3 beads than in those containing 6 or 10 beads.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Carboplatin-impregnated CSH beads eluted platinum over 72 hours. Further studies are needed to determine whether implantation of carboplatin-impregnated CSH beads results in detectable levels of platinum systemically and whether the platinum concentrations eluted locally are toxic to tumor cells.
Sustainable Development and Municipalities: Getting the Prices Right
Authors: Slack Enid
Published: November 2016

Municipalities can play an important role in promoting sustainable development by pricing services correctly. How we pay for municipal services has an impact on our behaviour: how much water we consume, how much waste we generate, whether we drive to work or take transit, and other economic decisions. How we pay for services and infrastructure also affects the nature, location, and density of development. Correct pricing will improve the efficiency with which resources are used to provide the services that residents and businesses want. Moreover, if cities are interested in pursuing compact development, they need to consider the impact of other financial tools (such as property taxes and development charges) on how cities grow and develop.
Experimental investigation of phase equilibria in the Nb–Si–Ta ternary system
Authors: Li Jian , Wang Cuiping , Yao Jun , Yang Shuiyuan , Kang Yongwang , Shi Zhan , Liu Xingjun
Published: November 2016

The phase equilibria in the Nb–Si–Ta ternary system at 1 373 K, 1 473 K and 1 573 K were investigated by means of back-scattered electron imaging, electron probe microanalysis and X-ray diffraction. The isothermal sections at 1 373 K, 1 473 K and 1 573 K consist of two three-phase regions and seven two-phase regions, without any ternary compounds. The compounds of NbSi2 and TaSi2, αNb5Si3 and αTa5Si3 form continuous solid solutions, respectively. The solubilities of Nb in Ta3Si and Ta2Si phases are extremely large, whereas the solubility of Si in the β(Nb, Ta) phase is relatively small.
The Appearance of Pitting on Thermally Grown Aluminum Oxide caused by Surface Segregation of Fe Impurities from the Bulk
Authors: Diaz-Droguett D. E. , Núñez P. , Cabrera A. L.
Published: November 2016

The oxidation of 99 wt.-% purity (low purity – main impurities were Fe and Si) and 99.999 wt.-% purity (high purity) Al foil was studied using a thermo-gravimetric method. The Al oxide was characterized with several techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The Al foils were oxidized in a 50 % O2 – 50 % Ar mixture between 773 and 843 K. Microscopic examination (SEM) of the oxide revealed that “pitting” occurred on the low purity Al. High Si and Fe concentration were found on the surface or near-surface of the oxide. The presence of Fe, as precipitates, on the surface of the oxide accounts for the pitting of the oxide. XPS inspection revealed the formation of γ-Al2O3 with the presence of some Al hydroxide.
SEM and EBSD Characterization of Bi-Layered Functionally Graded Hard Metal Composites
Authors: Prat O. , Suarez S. , García J. , Sanhueza F.
Published: November 2016

WC-Co bi-layer functionally graded composites were produced by powder metallurgy techniques. The influence of WC particle size and the grain growth inhibitor on the formation of the functionally graded composite was investigated. SEM images show that all sintered samples present a graded microstructure after sintering, with two side regions of extra-coarse and coarse WC-Co and a clear, dense interface without defects or other phases. EBSD results showed a change of WC particle size depending on the processing and the addition of Mo2C. Cobalt binder distribution corresponds to WC particle size. Hardness values correlate to WC particle size and binder content. It is shown that tailored hardness/toughness can be produced by adjusting the WC particle size and binder content on both sides of the bi-layer composite.
Failure Analysis of Slurry Pump Impeller Fractured at Collahuasi Mine
Authors: Ramos-Moore E. , Rosenkranz A.
Published: November 2016

This work presents the analysis of a fractured impeller used in slurry pumps at the Collahuasi copper mine in Chile. Although the impeller must run more than 1 800 h, it was fractured under working conditions before having reached 1 500 h, generating a catastrophic failure of the pumping system. The microstructure of the impeller material was analyzed by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and microhardness. The composition of the impeller material was studied by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. It was found that the impeller material corresponds to cast iron with high content of chromium, typically called white cast iron, which usually exhibits high wear and corrosion resistance. After analyzing the overall failure, we conclude that the fracture was mainly produced by the existence of high-impact materials in the slurry pulp, which produced an imbalance of the impeller rotation.
Extraction, isolation, characterization, semi-synthesis and antiplasmodial activity of Justicia adathoda leaves
Authors: Gopalan Sivaperumal , Kulanthai Kannnan , Sadashivam Gnanavel , Pachiappan Perumal , Rajamani Sowmiya , Paramasivam Deepak
Published: November 2016

There is a need to investigate the new sources of antimalarial drugs which are more effective against Plasmodium falciparum. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the in vitro antiplasmodial activity of vasicinone, vasicine and 9-oxo-1, 2, 3, 9-tetrahydropyrrolo [2,1-b]quinazolin-3-yl acetate (VA-1). Vasicinone and vasicine were extracted from the leaves of Justicia adhatoda. The novel compound VA-1 was synthesized from alkaloid the alkaloid vasicine, which was isolated from the ethanol extract of J. adhatoda leaves. Vasicine (IC50 = 89.8 µg/mL) and vasicinone (IC50 = 38.9 µg/mL) showed moderate antiplasmodial activity whereas the compound VA-1 ( IC50  = 06.0 µg/mL) showed excellent antiplasmodial activity when compared with standard drug chloroquine (IC50  = 12.6 µg/mL). The results achieved suggest that both isolated and semi-synthetic compounds may serve as a lead compound to antiplasmodial activity. Further, the compound VA-1 is for the first time reported for antiplasmodial activity with IC50 value.

Video Clip:

Antiplasmodia activity procedure: 7 min 13 sec
Genetic Diversity in Barley and Wheat for Tolerance to Soil Constraints
Authors: Dang Yash , Christopher Jack , Dalal Ram
Published: November 2016

Surface soil sodicity as well as subsoil salinity, acidity, and phytotoxic concentrations of chloride (Cl) are major soil constraints to crop production in many soils of sub-tropical, north-eastern Australia. The identification of genotypes tolerant to these soil constraints may be an option to maintain and improve productivity on these soils. We evaluated performance of 11 barley and 17 wheat genotypes grown on two sites <0.5 km apart. Compared to the non-sodic site, the sodic site had significantly higher Cl concentration (>800 mg·Cl·kg−1) in the subsoil (0.9–1.3 m soil depth) and higher exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) (>6%) in the surface and subsoil. Barley grain yield and plant available water capacity (PAWC) were reduced between 5%–25% and 40%–66%, respectively, for different genotypes at the sodic site as compared to the non-sodic site. For wheat genotypes, grain yield was between 8% and 33% lower at the sodic site compared to the non-sodic site and PAWC was between 3% and 37% lower. Most barley and wheat genotypes grown at the sodic site showed calcium (Ca) deficiency symptoms on younger leaves. Analysis of the youngest fully mature leaf (YML) confirmed that genotypes grown at the sodic site with Ca concentration < 0.2% exhibited deficiency symptoms. Grain yields of both barley and wheat genotypes grown on the sodic and non-sodic sites increased significantly with increasing Ca and K in YML and decreased significantly with increasing Na and Cl concentrations in YML. Sodium (Na) concentrations in YML of wheat genotypes grown at the sodic site were 10-fold higher than those from the non-sodic site whereas this increase was only two-fold in barley genotypes. In step-wise regression, the PAWC of barley and wheat genotypes grown on sodic and non-sodic sites was the principal determinant of variability of barley and wheat grain yield. Including the Ca concentration in the YML of wheat genotypes and K:Na ratio in the YML of barley genotypes significantly improved the prediction of grain yield in the regression analysis. Barley genotypes, Mackay and Kaputar, were relatively susceptible while Baronesse and Grout were relatively more tolerant to sodicity. Wheat genotypes Gregory and Stampede were generally relatively more susceptible to sodicity, and genotypes Baxter, Hume, and the experimental line HSF1-255 were relatively more tolerant than the former group.
Development of a Molecular Breeding Strategy for the Integration of Transgenic Traits in Outcrossing Perennial Grasses
Authors: Badenhorst Pieter , Smith Kevin , Spangenberg German
Published: November 2016

Molecular breeding tools, such as genetic modification, provide forage plant breeders with the opportunity to incorporate high value traits into breeding programs which, in some cases, would not be available using any other methodology. Despite the potential impact of these traits, little work has been published that seeks to optimize the strategies for transgenic breeding or incorporate transgenic breeding with other modern genomics-assisted breeding strategies. As the number of new genomics assisted breeding tools become available it is also likely that multiple tools may be used within the one breeding program. In this paper we propose a strategy for breeding genetically-modified forages using perennial ryegrass as an example and demonstrate how this strategy may be linked with other technologies, such as genomic selection. Whilst the model used is perennial ryegrass the principles outlined are valid for those designing breeding strategies for other outcrossing forage species.
Surveillance for Intracellular Antibody by Cytosolic Fc Receptor TRIM21
Authors: McEwan William
Published: November 2016

TRIM21 has emerged as an atypical Fc receptor that is broadly conserved and widely expressed in the cytoplasm of mammalian cells. Viruses that traffic surface-bound antibodies into the cell during infection recruit TRIM21 via a high affinity interaction between Fc and TRIM21 PRYSPRY domain. Following binding of intracellular antibody, TRIM21 acts as both antiviral effector and sensor for innate immune signalling. These activities serve to reduce viral replication by orders of magnitude in vitro and contribute to host survival during in vivo infection. Neutralization occurs rapidly after detection and requires the activity of the ubiquitin-proteasome system. The microbial targets of this arm of intracellular immunity are still being identified: TRIM21 activity has been reported following infection by several non-enveloped viruses and intracellular bacteria. These findings extend the sphere of influence of antibodies to the intracellular domain and have broad implications for immunity. TRIM21 has been implicated in the chronic auto-immune condition systemic lupus erythematosus and is itself an auto-antigen in Sjögren’s syndrome. This review summarises our current understanding of TRIM21’s role as a cytosolic Fc receptor and briefly discusses pathological circumstances where intracellular antibodies have been described, or are hypothesized to occur, and may benefit from further investigations of the role of TRIM21.
Deranged Dimensionality of Vestibular Re-Weighting in Multiple Chemical Sensitivity
Authors: Micarelli Alessandro , Viziano Andrea , Micarelli Elisa , Genovesi Giuseppe , Bruno Ernesto , Alessandrini Marco
Published: November 2016

Background: Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a chronic multisystem condition characterized by low levels of multiple chemical susceptibility inducing a spectrum of central nervous system symptoms, including dizziness. Thus, considering (i) the overlapping psychogenic and organic burdens shared in MCS development and in vestibular disorders; (ii) the number of previous studies describing central processing impairment related to inner ear inflow in this syndrome; and (iii) the lack of literature with respect to clinical evidence of the presentation of MCS dizziness, the purpose of the present study was to highlight the possible hidden aspects of vestibular impairment by applying the recent contribution of implemented otoneurological testing, inferential statistic and principal component (PC) analysis in 18 MCS and 20 healthy subjects (HC); Methods: Both groups filled in a dizziness and environment exposure inventory and underwent the Rod and Disc and Rod and Frame Test, video Head Impulse Test (vHIT) and Static Posturography Test (SPT) with fast Fourier Transform (FFT). Between-group analysis of variance and PC analysis implemented on otoneurological variables were performed; Results: Defective vestibular processing was identified in 18 MCS patients (11 female and 7 male; mean age 49.5 ± 9.3 years) by finding a significant increase in SPT and FFT parameters and in Visual Dependency (VD) behaviour and a decrease in vHIT scores. Component correlation analysis in MCS showed a positive correlation of FFT parameters in PC1 and SPT parameters in PC2 with a negative correlation of vHIT and VD values in PC2. HC subjects demonstrated a positive correlation of VD and SPT parameters in PC1 and FFT parameters in PC2. Conclusion: Inferential and PC analysis provided the opportunity to disclose such possible hidden phenomena to (i) support that MCS physiopathological cascades could lead to a vestibular decay; and (ii) suggest rearrangement of the dimension of the variables as an aspect of near-optimal re-weighting, possibly underpinning the dizzy symptoms complained of by MCS patients.
The Effect of Fuel Mass Fraction on the Combustion and Fluid Flow in a Sulfur Recovery Unit Thermal Reactor
Authors: Yeh Chun-Lang
Published: November 2016

Sulfur recovery unit (SRU) thermal reactors are negatively affected by high temperature operation. In this paper, the effect of the fuel mass fraction on the combustion and fluid flow in a SRU thermal reactor is investigated numerically. Practical operating conditions for a petrochemical corporation in Taiwan are used as the design conditions for the discussion. The simulation results show that the present design condition is a fuel-rich (or air-lean) condition and gives acceptable sulfur recovery, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) destruction, sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions and thermal reactor temperature for an oxygen-normal operation. However, for an oxygen-rich operation, the local maximum temperature exceeds the suggested maximum service temperature, although the average temperature is acceptable. The high temperature region must be inspected very carefully during the annual maintenance period if there are oxygen-rich operations. If the fuel mass fraction to the zone ahead of the choke ring (zone 1) is 0.0625 or 0.125, the average temperature in the zone behind the choke ring (zone 2) is higher than the zone 1 average temperature, which can damage the downstream heat exchanger tubes. If the zone 1 fuel mass fraction is reduced to ensure a lower zone 1 temperature, the temperature in zone 2 and the heat exchanger section must be monitored closely and the zone 2 wall and heat exchanger tubes must be inspected very carefully during the annual maintenance period. To determine a suitable fuel mass fraction for operation, a detailed numerical simulation should be performed first to find the stoichiometric fuel mass fraction which produces the most complete combustion and the highest temperature. This stoichiometric fuel mass fraction should be avoided because the high temperature could damage the zone 1 corner or the choke ring. A higher fuel mass fraction (i.e., fuel-rich or air-lean condition) is more suitable because it can avoid deteriorations of both zone 1 and heat exchanger tubes. Although a lower fuel mass fraction (i.e., fuel-lean or air-rich condition) can avoid deterioration of zone 1, the heat exchanger tubes may be damaged. This paper provides a guideline for adjusting the fuel mass fraction to reduce the high temperature inside the thermal reactor and to ensure an acceptable sulfur recovery.