bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional Management in Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Listya Luh Putu , Syam Ari Fahrial
Published: April 2017

Acute pancreatitis induce a catabolic stress that increase systemic inflammatory response with worsening nutritional status. Current approach in acute pancreatitis therapy was still symptomatic because of no definitive therapy yet to prevent any inflammatory and proteolytic cascade. One of the most important thing to consider in acute pancreatitis therapy was nutritional management. “Pancreatic rest” concept that formerly used have been known to increase cost, sepsis incidence due to catheter use, and also metabolic and electrolyte disorder. Nowadays, “gut rousing” concept was preferable compared to “pancreatic rest” concept, support that nutritional management was needed to stimulate and generate intestinal function. Enteral nutrition administration have to consider patient’s hemodynamic status. Necrosis incidence, respiratory failure, intensive care, and mortality was found to be lower in patients given enteral nutrition in first 48 hours compared to after 48 hours. Nutrition administration via nasogastric tube or nasojejunal tube was still in doubt while several studies showed that nasogastric tube administration was safe and tolerated, otherwise could be evaluated in larger population sample study. Nutrition and metabolic monitoring was also an important part to reach nutritional goals and reduce complications.
Melanosis Coli
Authors: Hakim Suharno , Bayupurnama Putut , Ratnasari Neneng
Published: April 2017

Melanosis coli is a brownish discoloration of the colonic mucosa caused by the accumulation of pigment in macrophages of the lamina propria. We reported a 62 years old woman with prolonged constipation since 10 years ago. She underwent haemorhoidectomy when 17 years old. Since 4 years ago she regularly comsumted herbal laxative. On 27 january 2015 underwent colonoscopy at Sardjito hospital Yogyakarta. Colonoscopic examination revealed Melanosis coli.
The Prevalence of Reflux Esophagitis in the Elderly and Its Associated Risk Factors
Authors: A Lesmana Cosmas Rinaldi , Angga Billy , Pakasi Levina S , Simanjuntak Waldemar , Lesmana Laurentius A
Published: April 2017

Background: Reflux esophagitis is a common problem in the elderly. Compare to the Western Countries, esophageal cancer where reflux esophagitis is the most predominant risk factor is considered rare in Asia. Many other risk factors have not been well studied especially in most Asian countries. The objective of this study is to evaluate the presence of reflux esophagitis in elderly patients and its associated risk factors.Method: This was a cross-sectional study in elderly patients who underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Patients who received long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy, suffered from gastrointestinal malignancies, recently receiving chemotherapy agents, diagnosed with cerebrovascular disease or Helicobacter pylori infection were excluded. Statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS software version 17.00 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois, USA).Results: A total of 238 elderly patients were enrolled. Patients’ mean age was 69.8 ± 6.8 years old. Reflux esophagitis was found in 22 (9.2%) patients. Several comorbidities were found in these patients, such as diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, chronic kidney disease, and liver cirrhosis. The only factor that associated with reflux esophagitis was the presence of hiatus hernia esophagus (p = 0.038). However, reflux esophagitis seemed to be more found in the elderly patients who have history of reflux inducing drugs consumption without any proton pump inhibitor (PPI) protection.Conclusion: Reflux esophagitis is still a major problem in the elderly. The presence of hiatus hernia might give an important consideration of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy screening. However, it would be a debate matter with regards to the cost burden and the low risk of esophageal cancer in Asian countries.
Safety of Annona muricata Extract Supplementation for Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Indrawati Lili , Purwantyastuti Purwantyastuti , Abdullah Murdani , Surono Ingrid S , Basir Ibrahim
Published: April 2017

Background: People have used Annona muricata leaves traditionally as tea drinks. Traditional use of A. muricata leaves is as an infusion which is closed to water extract. The potential health benefit of A. muricata tea leaves that is traditionally used for maintaining health which lately is being used by cancer patients. Therefore it is urgent to verify the safety of A. muricata leaves extract.  Method: A randomized double blind placebo controlled trial was conducted on 30 colorectal cancer out patients who had undergone primary tumor resection. Twenty eight subjects completed the study, divided into two groups, namely ethanol-soluble fraction of A. muricata leaves water extract (ESFAM) (n = 14), and placebo (n = 14) for 8 weeks. Peripheral blood samples were withdrawn from subjects by venipuncture at baseline and at the end of the study period.Results: The effect on bone marrow can be considered to be safe.  The measure in indices of organs function, i.e liver and kidney also showed similar results and within normal range after supplementation. The dose given to the subjects is safe and highly tolerable, as shown by very few (6.7%) of patients complained intolerable adverse effects.  Conclusion: This study indicates the safety of  ESFAM  supplementation.
Serologic and Urine Diagnostic Tests to Detect Helicobacter pylori Infection in Functional Dyspepsia Patients
Authors: Wardhana Agasjtya Wisjnu , Syam Ari Fahrial , Sanityoso Andri , Rumende Cleopas Martin
Published: April 2017

Background: Dyspepsia is a collection of symptoms in the forms of discomfort, pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and early satiety in the stomach. This condition can be caused by various problems; one of them is Helicobacter pylori infection. Dyspepsia without organic problem is known as functional dyspepsia. H. pylori examination is recommended in functional dyspepsia patients.Method: In this study, we performed a diagnostic test study in dyspepsia patients in Community Health Centre of Koja District, North Jakarta, from February to April 2015. Samples were obtained through consecutive sampling method; 74 patients were included. The data was gathered by distributing questionnaires to patients, performing urea breath test (UBT) examination, serologic test, and urine test using rapid urine test (RAPIRUN). Results: Prevalence of H. pylori infection by using UBT examination reached up to 36.5%; meanwhile serologic and RAPIRUN tests showed positive results in 32.4% and 24.3% patients, respectively. Serologic test has sensitivity of 74% (95% CI: 55-87%), specificity 91% (95% CI: 80-97%), positive predictive value (PPV) 83% (95% CI: 64-93%), and negative predictive value (NPV) 86% (95% CI: 74-93%). Meanwhile, RAPIRUN has sensitivity of 63% (95% CI: 44-78%), specificity 98% (95% CI: 89-100%), PPV 94% (95% CI: 74-99%), and NPV 82% (95% CI: 70-90%).Conclusion: Sensitivity of serologic and RAPIRUN tests are still inadequate to be alternative to UBT examination. However, they have high specificity. Further studies are required with larger sample size and consideration of factors which may influence the results of both tests.
Diagnostic and Prevention Approach in Post Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Pancreatitis
Authors: Ilone Stella , Fauzi Achmad
Published: April 2017

Obstructive jaundice (icterus) was an emergency situation in gastroenterology. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was a nonsurgical approach to release obstruction, mostly in common bile duct. Nowadays, this procedure was become frequently used in daily practice, but several complications also emerging. One of the severe complication was Post-ERCP Pancreatitis (PEP). Since it has a high mortality and morbidity, and also reduce patient quality of life, several approaches have been developed to reduce its incidence. In general, approaches consist of patient identification, efficient procedure, until pharmacological agent prevention. Although there were still contradiction among these, careful approach should be considered for each patients for a better outcomes.
A Rare Complication of Acute Appendicitis: Superior Mesenteric Vein Thrombosis
Authors: Koncoro Hendra , Setijoso Rafael Eddy , Johan Maisie ME
Published: April 2017

Superior mesenteric vein (SMV) thrombosis caused by acute appendicitis is quite rare nowadays. These conditions occurs secondary to infection in the region drained by the portal venous system. In this case, we report a successfully treated case of SMV thrombosis and liver abscess associated with appendicitis with antibiotics and anticoagulant.Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are basic to a favorable clinical course.
A Case of Primary Ileocecal Lymphoma
Authors: Rajabto Wulyo , Atmakusuma Djumhana , S Ivan Onggo , Makmun Dadang
Published: April 2017

Primary lymphoma in gastrointestinal tract is not very common. Ileocecal region is the commonest site for primary lymphoma and diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most prevalent subtype. The clinical presentation in this condition is pain in right lower quadrant region and this can very confusing since many diseases can also cause this problem like infection and inflammatory disease. In this paper, we report a case of primary lymphoma subtype DLBCL in ileocecal region that come to emergency department with ileus obstruction. Abdominal computerized tomography (CT) scan and colonoscopy revealed tumour in ileocecal region ascendens colon. Hemicolectomy was performed and the specimen was sent to pathology which revealed non-Hodgkin lymphoma with subtype DLBCL CD20 (+). The patient had undergone of Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicine, Vincristin, and Prednison (RCHOP) chemotherapy regimen and had complete remission.
La psicología comunitaria en Indoafroiberoamérica: ¿promesa, realidad o sinrazón?
Authors: Saforcada Enrique
Published: April 2017

En este escrito se busca caracterizar la situación política de algunos de los países progresistas que integran la CELAC (Comunidad de EstadosLatinoamericanos y Caribeños) y la actual situación geopolítica mundial caracterizada por la voluntad de sojuzgamiento que manifiestan los paísesde la OTAN e Israel con respecto a este conjunto de naciones, sobre todo las que integran la UNASUR (Unión de Naciones Suramericanas). Eneste escenario y situación se reflexiona con relación a los y las facultativos de la psicología comunitaria con respecto a los ejes ideológicos y éticos desus prácticas profesionales, su definición de democracia, su conceptuación de libertad e igualdad ante la ley, su sentido de coherencia profesional.
Computer assisted sperm analysis of Brahman crossbred breeding bull semen
Authors: Islam MR , Husain SS , Hoque MA , Talukder MK , Rahman MS , Ali MY
Published: April 2017

The present study was conducted at the Central Cattle Breeding and Dairy Farm, Saver, Dhaka from November 2015 to February 2016. Sixty ejaculates were collected from eight matured Brahman crossbred breeding bulls with a view to assess the motility and velocity parameters of ejaculates sperm using Computer-Assisted Sperm Analyser (CASA) with Andro Vision software. CASA parameters included as total motility (TM) (%), forward progressive motility (FPM) (%), fast motility (FM) (%) and circular motility (CM) (%); velocity parameters such as curvilinear velocity (VCL) (
Garbage waste induced heavy metals on roaming cattle
Authors: Hossain ASS , Tarafder MMA , Hasan MN , Kabir AKMA , Azad MAK
Published: April 2017

Emerging evidence has shown that municipal garbage waste contains higher amount of heavy metals and increases health and environmental hazards. Little is known, however, about such wastes use as animal food to fate in products level, in dairy cattle roaming freely. To address these, garbage waste as cattle feed, feces and milk samples from roaming dairy cattle were collected from four areas and simultaneously assess heavy metals concentrations. The study areas were Aqua Morolbari (AM; used as control area), Kachijuli Bazar (KB), Machua Bazar (MB), and Mymensingh Medical College (MMC). Emerging evidence has shown that municipal garbage waste contains higher amount of heavy metals and increases health and environmental hazards. Although faeces and milk samples expressed similar trends, feces samples was solely maintained higher chromium concentrations than to garbage waste and milk samples. A significant changes of zinc (Zn) concentrations was observed in collected garbage waste of MB and MMC than to AM and KB. Milk samples showed similar results. In contrast, an increased zinc concentration was found in areas of KB, MB and MMC feces samples as compared to AM. Compared to Aqua Morolbari area, Machua Bazar and Mymensingh Medical College areas garbage contained significant amount of lead (Pb) levels. There was an increase amount of lead presence in feces and milk samples compared to the control zone. A significant amount of cadmium (Cd) was found in KB, MB and MMC compared to AM. Feces samples were responded similarly. In contrast, both MB and MMC showed a higher concentration of cadmium in milk samples than rest of the two sites. From the results, it was clearly revealed that roaming cattle were daily consumed garbage wastes which possessed heavy metals such as Cr, Zn, Pb, and Cd, to a major extent, resulting in introduction of trace elements in the human food chain.Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2017. 46 (1): 24-28
Livelihood improvement of poor farmers through goat rearing in Mymensingh district of Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain MM , Alam MK , Haque M
Published: April 2017

The study aimed to examine the feeding, management, income and livelihood improvement through goat rearing in Mymensingh district. The study was conducted at different unions namely Gazirvita, Koichapur and Norail of Haluaghat Upazila in Mymensingh district. Total 45 respondents were randomly selected from three unions where 15 from each union. The respondents were classified into three distinct groups. The farmers belonged to Group-G, who lives in Gazirvita union, Group-K, who lives in Koichapur union and Group-N, belonged to the farmers who lives in Norail union. The period of data collection was from April to June, 2011. The farmers families were poorest of the poor and illiterate. The annual total cost of production of Black Bengal goat was Tk. 2154, while gross return and net return per household were Tk. 4296 and Tk. 2142, respectively. Educational status, employment for men, employment for women, social dignity and social acceptance were increased at 35, 24, 58, 26 and 23% through goat rearing in the study area. The result clearly indicates that livelihood increases dramatically through goat rearing in the study area.Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2017. 46 (1): 29-34
Wheat flour as dietary fiber on fresh and preserved beef meatballs
Authors: Jamaly SI , Hashem MA , Akhter S , Hossain MA
Published: April 2017

Effects of different levels of wheat flour as dietary fiber on the quality of fresh and preserved beef meatballs during storage were explored in this study. Ground beef (Batter) samples were divided into four treatment groups and treated with different level of wheat flour as T1 (control, 0%), T2 (5%), T3 (10%) and T4 (15%). Proximate analysis (dry matter, ash, ether extract and crude fat), sensory tests (color, flavor, tenderness, juiciness, overall acceptability), biochemical analysis (free fatty acids, Thiobarbutiric acid values and peroxide value) and microbiological examination were carried out as responses at the interval of 0, 30 and 60 days during storage at -200C. The experimental design was a 4 × 3 factorial in Completely Randomized Design replicated three times per cell. DM content was increased significantly (p<0.05) with the advancement of storage intervals. CP and EE content of all the treatments were decreased significantly (p<0.05) among the different treatment groups. FFA and TBARs values were differed significantly (p<0.05) at different treatment levels. PVs were decreased significantly (p<0.05) at different treatment levels. Color, cooking loss and overall acceptability were differed significantly (p<0.05) at different treatment levels. Raw and cooked pH were increased significantly (p<0.05) at different treatment levels. The juiciness at different treatment levels were decreased significantly(p<0.05).TVC (logCFU/g), TCC (logCFU/g) and TYMC (logCFU/g) were differed significantly (p<0.05) at different treatment levels. In conclusions, meatballs having 5% wheat flour was better in terms of color, odor, tenderness, juiciness and overall acceptability, cooking loss and microbial qualities.Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2017. 46 (1): 35-43
Use of Botanicals as Environmentally Safe Management for Cotton Jassid
Authors: Siddiqua TA , Miah MRU , Amin MR , Yesmin K
Published: April 2017

This study evaluated the efficacy of nine botanicals against cotton jassid on cotton variety CB 12. The nine botanical treatments were neem leaf extract @ 100 ml L-1 of water, turmeric powder @ 20 g L-1 of water, coriander powder @ 20 g L-1 of water, black pepper powder @ 20 g L-1 of water, chili powder @ 20 g L-1 of water, Garlic extract @ 100 g of grated and crushed garlic cloves per L of water, eucalyptus oil @ 5 ml L-1 of water, mahogany oil @ 5 ml L-1 of water, neem oil @ 5 ml L-1 of water. The botanicals were applied four times at 7 days interval during the cotton growing season. Among the tested botanicals neem leaf extract with 100 ml L-1 water and chili powder 20 g L-1 water after 24, 48 and 72 hours of application exerted the lowest jassid population. The botanical treatments have insignificant effect on the population of beneficials. The neem leaf extract with 100 ml L-1 water and neem oil with 5 ml L-1 water had greater effect on cotton jassid and revealed significantly lower levels of leaf infestation by number. Plots treated with neem leaf extract with 100 ml L-1 water and chili powder with 20 gL water resulted in significantly higher yield than that of the control.J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 9(2): 131-134 2016
Power Split Based Dual Hemispherical Continuously Variable Transmission
Authors: Dresscher Douwe , Naves Mark , De Vries Theo , Buijze Martijn , Stramigioli Stefano
Published: April 2017

In this work, we present a new continuously variable transmission concept: the Dual-Hemi Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). It is designed to have properties we believe are required to apply continuously variable transmissions in robotics to their full potential. These properties are a transformation range that includes both positive and negative ratios, back-drivability under all conditions, kinematically decoupled reconfiguration, high efficiency of the transmission, and a reconfiguration mechanism requiring little work for changing the transmission ratio. The design of the Dual-Hemi CVT and a prototype realisation are discussed in detail. We show that the Dual-Hemi CVT has the aforementioned desired properties. Experiments show that the efficiency of the CVT is above 90% for a large part of the range of operation of the CVT. Significant stiction in the transmission, combined with a relatively low bandwidth for changing the transmission ratio, may cause problems when applying the DH-CVT as part of an actuator in a control loop.
Opportunities for Napier Grass (Pennisetum purpureum) Improvement Using Molecular Genetics
Authors: Negawo Alemayehu , Teshome Abel , Kumar Alok , Hanson Jean , Jones Chris
Published: April 2017

Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach.) is a fast-growing perennial grass native to Sub-Saharan Africa that is widely grown across the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is a multipurpose forage crop, primarily used to feed cattle in cut and carry feeding systems. Characterization and diversity studies on a small collection of Napier grasses have identified a moderate level of genetic variation and highlighted the availability of some good agronomic traits, particularly high biomass production, as a forage crop. However, very little information exists on precise phenotyping, genotyping and the application of molecular technologies to Napier grass improvement using modern genomic tools which have been applied in advancing the selection and breeding of important food crops. In this review paper, existing information on genetic resources, molecular diversity, yield and nutritional quality of Napier grass will be discussed. Recent findings on characterizing disease resistance and abiotic stress (drought) tolerance will also be highlighted. Finally, opportunities and future prospects for better conservation and use arising from the application of modern genomic tools in Napier grass phenotyping and genotyping will be discussed.
Was Jack the Ripper a Slaughterman? Human-Animal Violence and the World’s Most Infamous Serial Killer
Authors: Knight Andrew , Watson Katherine
Published: April 2017

Hundreds of theories exist concerning the identity of “Jack the Ripper”. His propensity for anatomical dissection with a knife—and in particular the rapid location and removal of specific organs—led some to speculate that he must have been surgically trained. However, re-examination of a mortuary sketch of one of his victims has revealed several aspects of incisional technique highly inconsistent with professional surgical training. Related discrepancies are also apparent in the language used within the only letter from Jack considered to be probably authentic. The techniques he used to dispatch his victims and retrieve their organs were, however, highly consistent with techniques used within the slaughterhouses of the day. East London in the 1880s had a large number of small-scale slaughterhouses, within which conditions for both animals and workers were exceedingly harsh. Modern sociological research has highlighted the clear links between the infliction of violence on animals and that inflicted on humans, as well as increased risks of violent crimes in communities surrounding slaughterhouses. Conditions within modern slaughterhouses are more humane in some ways but more desensitising in others. The implications for modern animal slaughtering, and our social reliance on slaughterhouses, are explored.
Green Care: A Review of the Benefits and Potential of Animal-Assisted Care Farming Globally and in Rural America
Authors: Artz Brianna , Bitler Davis Doris
Published: April 2017

The term Green Care includes therapeutic, social or educational interventions involving farming; farm animals; gardening or general contact with nature. Although Green Care can occur in any setting in which there is interaction with plants or animals, this review focuses on therapeutic practices occurring on farms. The efficacy of care farming is discussed and the broad utilization of care farming and farm care communities in Europe is reviewed. Though evidence from care farms in the United States is included in this review, the empirical evidence which could determine its efficacy is lacking. For example, the empirical evidence supporting or refuting the efficacy of therapeutic horseback riding in adults is minimal, while there is little non-equine care farming literature with children. The health care systems in Europe are also much different than those in the United States. In order for insurance companies to cover Green Care techniques in the United States, extensive research is necessary. This paper proposes community-based ways that Green Care methods can be utilized without insurance in the United States. Though Green Care can certainly be provided in urban areas, this paper focuses on ways rural areas can utilize existing farms to benefit the mental and physical health of their communities.
Acute Pre-/Post-Treatment with 8th Day SOD-Like Supreme (a Free Radical Scavenging Health Product) Protects against Oxidant-Induced Injury in Cultured Cardiomyocytes and Hepatocytes In Vitro as Well as in Mouse Myocardium and Liver In Vivo
Authors: Leong Pou , Chen Jihang , Chan Wing , Leung Hoi , Chan Lincoln , Ko Kam
Published: April 2017

8th Day superoxide dismutase (SOD)-Like Supreme (SOD-Like Supreme, a free radical scavenging health product) is an antioxidant-enriched fermentation preparation with free radical scavenging properties. In the present study, the cellular/tissue protective actions of SOD-Like Supreme against menadione toxicity in cultured H9c2 cardiomyocytes and in AML12 hepatocytes as well as oxidant-induced injury in the mouse myocardium and liver were investigated. SOD-Like Supreme was found to possess potent free radical scavenging activity in vitro as assessed by an oxygen radical absorbance capacity assay. Incubation with SOD-Like Supreme (0.5–3% (v/v)) was shown to protect against menadione-induced toxicity in H9c2 and AML12 cells, as evidenced by increases in cell viability. The ability of SOD-Like Supreme to protect against menadione cytotoxicity was associated with an elevation in the cellular reduced glutathione (GSH)/oxidized glutathione (GSSG) ratio in menadione-challenged cells. Consistent with the cell-based studies, pre-/post-treatment with SOD-Like Supreme (0.69 and 2.06 mL/kg, three intermittent doses per day for two consecutive days) was found to protect against isoproterenol-induced myocardial injury and carbon tetrachloride hepatotoxicity in mice. The cardio/hepatoprotection afforded by SOD-Like Supreme was also paralleled by increases in myocardial/hepatic mitochondrial GSH/GSSG ratios in the SOD-Like Supreme-treated/oxidant-challenged mice. In conclusion, incubation/treatment with SOD-Like Supreme was found to protect against oxidant-induced injury in vitro and in vivo, presumably by virtue of its free radical scavenging activity.
Grain Size in Aluminum Alloy 6061 under Hot Ring Compression Test and after T6 Temper
Authors: Fann Kuang-Jau , Chen Chun-Chi
Published: April 2017

Peripheral coarse grain during and after hot forming is often a major inconvenience for manufacturing aluminum alloy parts. Not only is the strength reduced, but the subsequent surface treatments are also hard to realize. The literature has shown that peripheral coarse grain is very likely induced by the previous process, such as extrusion. To investigate if peripheral coarse grain could be caused solely by hot forming, this study removed the billet surface layers. This eliminates the effect from the previous processes preparing the billets and forms ring specimens for executing ring compression test. The ring compression test can reveal the friction circumstance of the specimen to the die surface and create versatile deformation in the specimens to simulate forging situations, thereby providing multifaceted conditions to develop diverse grain size in specimen, particularly on its surface. The experiments were designed and analyzed under the Taguchi method, with consideration for factors such as working temperature, speed and amount of compression, and lubricant. Under each experiment, no peripheral coarse grains were found in the specimen, which were peeled and compressed, and even the average grain size after compression test is larger than that of the received billet. No peripheral coarse grains were found in the subsequent T6 temper either, which could, however, refine the grains.
Mechanically Strong CaSiO3 Scaffolds Incorporating B2O3-ZnO Liquid Phase
Authors: Shuai Cijun , Duan Songlin , Gao Dan , Wu Ping , Gao Chengde , Yang Youwen , Liu Long , Yuan Fulai , Yang Sheng , Feng Pei
Published: April 2017

Calcium silicate (CaSiO3) scaffolds were reinforced by introducing liquid phase. The liquid phase was made of B2O3 and ZnO. The fracture toughness and compressive strength increased by 48% and 141%, respectively, compared with those of the scaffolds without the liquid phase. This was attributed to the enhanced densification, the elongated grains pull-out and the cracks bridging. In addition, because of its increasing mechanical properties, the fracture model of the cleavage fracture was more beneficial than the intergranular fracture. The mechanical properties of the scaffolds with the liquid phase could be steadily maintained and then they decreased slowly when immersed in simulated body fluid (SBF). Meanwhile, the hydroxyapatite (HAp) generated on their surfaces. In addition, the scaffolds possessed favorable biocompatibility and could promote cell proliferation. These results demonstrated that the scaffolds with B2O3-ZnO liquid phase are a promising substitute for bone repair applications.
Study of the Preparation and Dielectric Property of PP/SMA/PVDF Blend Material
Authors: Chen Zixuan , Pei Jianzhong , Li Rui
Published: April 2017

Polypropylene (PP) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymer materials have been widely used because PP has excellent piezoelectricity and PVDF has a robust tensile strength. However, few studies have been reported about PP/PVDF blends, and the main issue has proven to be the interfacial compatibility of blends. This research investigated the microstructure of blends to characterize their compatibility. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis showed the poor interactions between PP and PVDF interface, and thus this study adopted styrene maleic anhydride (SMA) copolymer as compatibilizer to modify the properties of blends. The XRD and SEM investigations showed an enhancement in the interactions between PP and PVDF after the addition of SMA. The dielectric properties of PP/SMA/PVDF blends showed a significant increase when PP content was 40%–60% and the dielectric constant (ε) was up to 13; meanwhile, the dielectric loss (tanδ) of PP/SMA/PVDF was lower than PP/PVDF blends.
Excitation of Surface Waves Due to Thermocapillary Effects on a Stably Stratified Fluid Layer
Authors: Zimmerman William , Rees Julia
Published: April 2017

In chemical engineering applications, the operation of condensers and evaporators can be made more efficient by exploiting the transport properties of interfacial waves excited on the interface between a hot vapor overlying a colder liquid. Linear theory for the onset of instabilities due to heating a thin layer from above is computed for the Marangoni–Bénard problem. Symbolic computation in the long wave asymptotic limit shows three stationary, non-growing modes. Intersection of two decaying branches occurs at a crossover long wavelength; two other modes co-exist at the crossover point—propagating modes on nascent, shorter wavelength branches. The dispersion relation is then mapped numerically by Newton continuation methods. A neutral stability method is used to map the space of critical stability for a physically meaningful range of capillary, Prandtl, and Galileo numbers. The existence of a cut-off wavenumber for the long wave instability was verified. It was found that the effect of applying a no-slip lower boundary condition was to render all long waves stationary. This has the implication that any propagating modes, if they exist, must occur at finite wavelengths. The computation of 8000 different parameter sets shows that the group velocity always lies within 1 2 to 2 3 of the longwave phase velocity.
An Objective Prototype-Based Method for Dual-Polarization Radar Clutter Identification
Authors: Wen Guang , Protat Alain , Xiao Hui
Published: April 2017

A prototype-based method is developed to discriminate different types of clutter (ground clutter, sea clutter, and insects) from weather echoes using polarimetric measurements and their textures. This method employs a clustering algorithm to generate data groups from the training dataset, each of which is modeled as a weighted Gaussian distribution called a “prototype.” Two classification algorithms are proposed based on the prototypes, namely maximum prototype likelihood classifier (MPLC) and Bayesian classifier (BC). In the MPLC, the probability of a data point with respect to each prototype is estimated to retrieve the final class label under the maximum likelihood criterion. The BC models the probability density function as a Gaussian mixture composed by the prototypes. The class label is obtained under the maximum a posterior criterion. The two algorithms are applied to S-band dual-polarization CP-2 weather radar data in Southeast Queensland, Australia. The classification results for the test dataset are compared with the NCAR fuzzy-logic particle identification algorithm. Generally good agreement is found for weather echo and ground clutter; however, the confusion matrix indicates that the techniques tend to differ from each other on the recognition of insects.
Characteristics and Source Analysis of Water-Soluble Inorganic Ions in PM10 in a Typical Mining City, Central China
Authors: Liu Hongxia , Zheng Jingru , Qu Chengkai , Zhang Jiaquan , Wang Yongkui , Zhan Changlin , Yao Ruizhen , Cao Junji
Published: April 2017

A total of 61 PM10 samples in Huangshi (HS), Central China, were collected every sixth day from April 2012 to March 2013 and were analyzed for water-soluble inorganic ions (WSIIs) by ion chromatography. The sum of three major ions (SO42−, NO3−, and NH4+) accounted for 75.8% of the total WSIIs on average. The results of a non-parametric test (Kruskal-Wallis) show that, except for Na+ (p > 0.05), the other ions present a distinctly seasonal variation with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). The minimum concentrations of all ions were found in summer, while the maximum values presented in autumn (for Ca2+) and winter (for Cl−, NO3−, SO42−, K+, NH4+, Mg2+). Based on the highest ratio of Cl−/Na+ (3.02) and the highest concentration of K (4.37 μg·m−3), Ba (0.37 μg·m−3), and Sr (0.07 μg·m−3) in February 2013, it can be concluded that firework powders have aggravated the haze weather during the Spring Festival of 2013. The micro-equivalent concentrations of cations and anions were calculated and the comparisons between the calculated and measured NH4+ concentrations were conducted. The results illustrate that aerosol particles in HS are acidic and there may exist some other cationic ions not detected in this study. An obvious positive correlation and good linear regression among WSIIs suggest that the chemical forms in HS aerosols show a great variety of combinations, such as NH4NO3, NH4HSO4, (NH4)2SO4, NH4Cl, KCl, KNO3, NaCl, NaNO3, Ca(NO3)2, CaSO4, MgCl2, Mg(NO3)2, and MgSO4. The WSIIs have large positive correlation and linear regression with the elements, suggesting that WSIIs in mining cities are strongly influenced by element constituents. Principal component analysis implies that WSIIs in PM10 are probably from three sources. NH4+, Mg2+, NO3−, K and K+, Cl− and Cl, SO42−, and S accounted for 46.9% of the total variances, suggesting likely anthropogenic sources, especially coal combustion, vehicular exhaust, and biomass burning. Mg accounted for 23.3% of the total variances and Ca2+ and Ca explained 18.1% of the total variances, demonstrating that another important source is mineral dust from both natural and anthropogenic sources.
Is Decompressive Surgery for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Effective in Patients Suffering from Concomitant Multiple Sclerosis or Parkinson’s Disease?
Authors: Purvis Taylor , Lubelski Daniel , Mroz Thomas
Published: April 2017

A subset of patients with a demyelinating disease suffer from concurrent cervical spondylotic myelopathy, both of which evince similar symptomatology. Differentiating the cause of these symptoms is challenging, and little research has been done on patients with coexisting diseases. This review explores the current literature on the appropriate surgical management of patients with concurrent multiple sclerosis (MS) and cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), and those with both Parkinson’s disease (PD) and CSM. MS and CSM patients may benefit from surgery to reduce pain and radiculopathy. Surgical management in PD and CSM patients has shown minimal quality-of-life improvement. Future studies are needed to better characterize demyelinating disease patients with concurrent disease and to determine ideal medical or surgical treatment.
Palliative Care and the Family Caregiver: Trading Mutual Pretense (Empathy) for a Sustained Gaze (Compassion)
Authors: Goldsmith Joy , Ragan Sandra
Published: April 2017

In this conceptual piece, we survey the progress of palliative care communication and reflect back on a chapter we wrote a decade ago, which featured the communication concept of mutual pretense, first described by Glaser and Strauss (1965). This work will include an update on family caregivers and their role in cancer caregiving as well as a review of current palliative care communication curriculum available for providers. And finally, we will spotlight the conversation and research going forward on the subject of health literacy for all stakeholders; patients, families, providers, and systems. We feature one family’s story of incurable cancer and end of life to revisit the needs we identified ten years ago, which are still present. Goals for going forward in chronic and terminal illness are suggested in a health care context still too void of palliative care communication resources for providers, patients, and especially family caregivers.
Study of the V2O5-WO3/TiO2 Catalyst Synthesized from Waste Catalyst on Selective Catalytic Reduction of NOx by NH3
Authors: Qi Chunping , Bao Weijun , Wang Liguo , Li Huiquan , Wu Wenfen
Published: April 2017

V2O5-WO3/TiO2 catalysts were synthesized from waste selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst through oxalic acid leaching and impregnating with various V2O5 mass loadings. The denitration (deNOx) activity and physiochemical properties of the catalysts were investigated. All the catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption/desorption, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and H2-temperature programmed reduction. The evaluation result revealed that the deNOx activity of newly synthesized catalyst with 1.0% V2O5 was almost recovered to the level of fresh catalyst, with NO conversion being recovered to 91% at 300 °C, and it also showed a good resistance to SO2 and H2O. The characterization results showed that the decrease of impurities, partial recovery of the V4+/V5+ ratio, and increased reducibility were mainly responsible for the recovery of catalytic activity.
First-Principles Investigations on Structural and Elastic Properties of Orthorhombic TiAl under Pressure
Authors: Liu Lili , Wu Xiaozhi , Wang Rui , Nie Xiangfei , He Yelu , Zou Xing
Published: April 2017

The effects of pressure on the structural and elastic properties of orthorhombic TiAl are investigated using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory within the projector augmented wave method. The calculated lattice parameters at 0 GPa are in good agreement with the available experimental data. The pressure dependence of the normalized lattice parameters and the single crystal elastic constants are investigated. By the elastic stability criteria under pressure, it is found that orthorhombic TiAl is mechanically stable under pressure up to 100 GPa. The elastic moduli and Poisson’s ratio under pressure up to 100 GPa are calculated using the Hill average method. The ductility/brittleness under pressure are evaluated, and a critical pressure for brittle-to-ductile transition is found to be 40 GPa. The elastic anisotropy and Debye temperature under different pressure are estimated from the calculations.
Ten Important Considerations for Ovarian Cancer Screening
Authors: Pavlik Edward
Published: April 2017

The unique intricacies of ovarian cancer screening and perspectives of different screening methods are presented as ten considerations that are examined. Included in these considerations are: (1) Deciding on the number of individuals to be screened; (2) Anticipating screening group reductions due to death; (3) Deciding on the duration and frequency of screening; (4) Deciding on an appropriate follow-up period after screening; (5) Deciding on time to surgery when malignancy is suspected; (6) Deciding on how screen-detected ovarian cancers are treated and by whom; (7) Deciding on how to treat the data of enrolled participants; (8) Deciding on the most appropriate way to assign disease-specific death; (9) Deciding how to avoid biases caused by enrollments that attract participants with late-stage disease who are either symptomatic or disposed by factors that are genetic, environmental or social; and (10) Deciding whether the screening tool or a screening process is being tested. These considerations are presented in depth along with illustrations of how they impact the outcomes of ovarian cancer screening. The considerations presented provide alternative explanations of effects that have an important bearing on interpreting ovarian screening outcomes.
A Study of the Transfer Entropy Networks on Industrial Electricity Consumption
Authors: Yao Can-Zhong , Kuang Peng-Cheng , Lin Qing-Wen , Sun Bo-Yi
Published: April 2017

We study information transfer routes among cross-industry and cross-region electricity consumption data based on transfer entropy and the MST (Minimum Spanning Tree) model. First, we characterize the information transfer routes with transfer entropy matrixes, and find that the total entropy transfer of the relatively developed Guangdong Province is lower than others, with significant industrial cluster within the province. Furthermore, using a reshuffling method, we find that driven industries contain much more information flows than driving industries, and are more influential on the degree of order of regional industries. Finally, based on the Chu-Liu-Edmonds MST algorithm, we extract the minimum spanning trees of provincial industries. Individual MSTs show that the MSTs follow a chain-like formation in developed provinces and star-like structures in developing provinces. Additionally, all MSTs with the root of minimal information outflow industrial sector are of chain-form.
Reconceptualizing Scientific Literacy: The Role of Students’ Epistemological Profiles
Authors: Drumond Vieira Rodrigo , Florentino de Melo Viviane , Avraamidou Lucy , Avelar Lobato João
Published: April 2017

In this theoretical article we construct an argument for a pedagogical perspective based on the notion of epistemological profiles for scientific literacy for primary and secondary education. Concurrently, we offer a discussion of the implications of this proposal to the preparation of teachers and the development of their pedagogical skills. Underlining cultural practices in the construction, communication and validation of knowledge—called epistemic practices which are informed by an ideological perspective on science, are implied in the notion of epistemological profiles in the context of science teaching, particularly physics. Using the concept of mass in the context of science education, we discuss how different ideological perspectives on science reflect distinct aspects of reality. Thus, in this paper we propose an ‘order’ and ‘direction’ to scientific literacy and education in science, emphasizing the construction of a clear empirical perspective for primary school and a rationalistic ideological perspective for secondary school. We complement our argument with resources from activity theory and discourse studies, alongside a discussion of issues and challenges. In concluding this paper, we point out that such proposal requires a change in the classroom teaching culture.
Effect of Nanoparticles on Spontaneous Imbibition of Water into Ultraconfined Reservoir Capillary by Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Wang Xiao , Xiao Senbo , Zhang Zhiliang , He Jianying
Published: April 2017

Imbibition is one of the key phenomena underlying processes such as oil recovery and others. In this paper, the influence of nanoparticles on spontaneous water imbibition into ultraconfined channels is investigated by molecular dynamics simulation. By combining the dynamic process of imbibition, the water contact angle in the capillary and the relationship of displacement (l) and time (t), a competitive mechanism of nanoparticle effects on spontaneous imbibition is proposed. The results indicate that the addition of nanoparticles decreases the displacement of fluids into the capillary dramatically, and the relationship between displacement and time can be described by l(t) ~ t1/2. Based on the analysis of the dynamic contact angle and motion behavior of nanoparticles, for water containing hydrophobic nanoparticles, the displacement decreases with the decrease of hydrophobicity, and the properties of fluids, such as viscosity and surface tension, play a major role. While for hydrophilic nanoparticles, the displacement of fluids increases slightly with the increase of hydrophilicity in the water-wet capillary and simulation time, which can be ascribed to disjoining pressure induced by “sticking nanoparticles”. This study provides new insights into the complex interactions between nanoparticles and other components in nanofluids in the spontaneous imbibition, which is crucially important to enhanced oil recovery.
Pyrolysis of Polyolefins Using Rotating Arc Plasma Technology for Production of Acetylene
Authors: Zhang Ming , Ma Jie , Su Baogen , Wen Guangdong , Yang Qiwei , Ren Qilong
Published: April 2017

Polyolefin, as one of the most widely used macromolecule materials, has been one of the most serious threats to the environment. Current treatment methods of waste polyolefin including landfill, incineration, and thermal degradation have suffered from severe problems such as secondary pollution and the generation of other toxic substances. In this article, we report for the first time a high-efficiency method to produce high-value C2H2 from polyolefins using a rotating direct current arc plasma reactor, using polyethylene and polypropylene as feedstocks. The essence of this method is that a reductive atmosphere of pyrolysis enables a thermodynamic preference to C2H2 over other carbon-containing gas and the rotating direct current arc plasma reactor allows for a uniform distribution of high temperature to ensure high conversion of polymers. Thermodynamic simulation of product composition was performed, and the effect of plasma input power, polyolefin feed rate, and working gas flow rate on the pyrolysis results was experimentally investigated. It was found that, with proper parameter control, approximately complete conversion of carbon in polyolefin could be obtained, with a C2H2 selectivity higher than 80% and a C2H2 yield higher than 70%. These results not only create new opportunities for the reuse of polymer waste, but are also instructive for the green production of C2H2.
Experimental Investigation of Stress Rate and Grain Size on Gas Seepage Characteristics of Granular Coal
Authors: Ma Dan , Li Qiang , Hall Matthew , Wu Yu
Published: April 2017

Coal seam gas, held within the inner pores of unmineable coal, is an important energy resource. Gas release largely depends on the gas seepage characteristics and their evolution within granular coal. To monitor this evolution, a series of experiments were conducted to study the effects of applied compressive stress and original grain size distribution (GSD) on the variations in the gas seepage characteristics of granular coal samples. Grain crushing under higher stress rates was observed to be more intense. Isolated fractures in the larger diameter fractions transformed from self–extending to inter-connecting pathways at a critical compressive stress. Grain crushing was mainly caused by compression and high-speed impact. Based on the test results of the original GSD effect, the overall process of porosity and permeability evolution during compression can be divided into three different phases: (1) rapid reduction in the void ratio; (2) continued reduction in the void ratio and large particle crushing; and (3) continued crushing of large particles. Void size reduction and particle crushing were mainly attributed to the porosity and permeability decreases that occurred. The performance of an empirical model, for porosity and permeability evolution, was also investigated. The predictive results indicate that grain crushing caused permeability increases during compression, and that this appeared to be the main cause for the predictive values being lower than those obtained from the experimental tests. The predictive accuracy would be the same for samples under different stress rates and the lowest for the sample with the highest proportion of large grain diameters.