bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulse Laser Irradiation Control Method for Blind Via-Hole Drilling of Printed Wiring Boards Based on High-Speed Camera Monitoring
Authors: Kanki Koji , Iozumi Munetaka , Hirogaki Toshiki , Aoyama Eiichi , Ogawa Keiji
Published: October 2016

In recent years, the performance and miniaturization of portable information devices have rapidly advanced. The build-up process is often used in the manufacturing of printed wiring boards (PWBs) for high-density circuits. At present, CO2 laser beams are generally used in the build-up process to drill blind via holes (BVHs) that connect copper foils. However, Cu direct drilling is problematic in that it produces a copper overhang as a result of copper and resin, with different decomposition points, being melted simultaneously. Overhang could cause an adverse effect in plating the hole for connectivity. However, only few studies have investigated Cu direct processing for drilling BVHs. At an actual production site of PWBs, the number of processing holes is enormous, which leads to neglecting the quality of each processed hole. Therefore, we focused on pulse drilling, which involves laser irradiation using short multiple pulses to reduce the thermal effect. Pulse drilling could reduce overhang compared to single pulse irradiation; however, it lengthens the total processing time. Pulse irradiation after BVH formation would be unnecessary, since it could cause thermal damage to the hole and lengthen the processing time. Therefore, during pulse irradiation, it is essential to distinguish whether a BVH is formed. We observed the value of the motion graph, which was acquired from the high-speed camera images. The motion graph shows the luminance value of an image at a given time of the video. Based on the peak time of the motion graph during each pulse, we proposed a method to distinguish BVH formation during multiple pulse drilling.
Ultrasonic 3D Shape Milling for Acrylic Resin Optical Products
Authors: Inoue Shuntaro , Hara Keisuke
Published: October 2016

Acrylic resin is employed in optical products such as lenses and light guiding panels because it is highly transparent. Optical components made using acrylic resin require hand polishing by skilled workers to give a mirror finish to the surface of components in order to obtain the required optical properties. However, polishing takes a lot of time and two problems that exist are that skilled workers are aging and that young skilled workers are few in number. In this research, a method of ultrasonic milling of acrylic resin which would give a mirror-surface finish to acrylic resin products without the need for hand polishing by skilled workers was proposed.
Fabrication of Nanotwinned Surface on a Nickel Alloy Using a Developed Diamond Panel with Tips Array
Authors: Wang Bo , Zhang Zhen Yu , Duan Neng Dong , Lyu Ji Lei , Chen Guo Xin , You Zhi Heng , Shi Zhi Feng , Huang Si Ling
Published: October 2016

In this study, nanotwinned surface is fabricated on a Nickel alloy by means of a developed diamond panel with tips array. The diamond panel has an area of 10×10 mm2, and is grown using microwave chemical vapor deposition. The diamond tips are submicron in radius and formed on a silicon substrate with an array full of uniformed inverted pyramid pits. The nanotwinned surface is produced under the pressure of 1 MPa exerted by the diamond panel with tips array. Nanotwins are confirmed using transmission electron microscopy. The nanotwinned surface is generated by indention of diamond panel at room temperature using mechanical force, neither material removal nor chemical reagents. This is different from previous reports, in which high temperature, high pressure, chemical reagents or vacuum conditions are employed usually.
Study on Influential Factors of Grinding Surface Residual Stress in Dry for Controlling Workpiece Surface Integrity
Authors: Zhang Xiu Ming , Xiu Shi Chao , Liu Li Juan , Shi Xiao Liang
Published: October 2016

Surface integrity of workpiece, especially residual stress, has the significant effects on the precision, the reliability and the fatigue life of the mechanical products. Since the most of final surface integrity of workpiece depends on the grinding process in engineering, this paper analyzed the ground surface residual stress through simulation and experiment. Based on the finite element model, the coupling of thermal mechanical field of plane grinding was simulated. The effects of grinding parameters on residual stress were studied compared to the experiment results. In addition, some measures for reducing the residual tensile stress of workpiece surface in the grinding process were put forwarded.
Quantitative Analysis of the Micro Friction of Single Crystal Silicon
Authors: Tian Ru , Zhu Hong Tao , Huang Chuan Zhen , Wang Jun , Liu Ao , Ge Meng Ran , Yao Peng , Liu Han Lian , Zou Bin
Published: October 2016

The single-asperity friction of polished single crystal silicon using a cone with a spherical apex tip was quantitatively studied concerning the influence of normal load and scratching cycles. Specific friction equations were presented and the interfacial friction equations were determined by fitting the experiment data obtained in the scratching tests. The influence of different scratch conditions to both the interfacial fiction and the plowing friction was analyzed. This paper aims to understand the mechanisms of friction and material removal of single crystal silicon in micro and nanocutting or polishing.
Study on Tribological Property of Nano-TiO2 Additive Oil-in-Water Lubricant during Hot Rolling
Authors: Xia Wen Zhen , Zhao Jing Wei , Wu Hui , Jiao Si Hai , Jiang Zheng Yi
Published: October 2016

Oxide scale formed on the steel surface during hot rolling affects the tribological property of nanoTiO2 additive oil-in-water (O/W) lubricant, resulting in changes of roll forces, torques and power consumption, as well as the wear and the surface quality of the work roll and workpiece in hot rolling. The nanoparticle additive O/W emulsion is a novel lubricant and has a great potential to be used in hot rolling process. However, little research has focused on the nanoparticle additive O/W emulsion. In this study, oxidation, tribological and hot rolling tests were conducted to investigate the tribological behaviour of nanoTiO2 additive O/W lubricant. The results indicate that the surface morphology of the oxide scale plays an important role in tribological behaviour of nanoTiO2 additive O/W lubricants. The coefficient of friction (COF) and rolling force are reduced with the addition of nanoTiO2 particles into the 1.0% (mass %, oil concentration) O/W lubricant. This study is helpful in applying the nanoTiO2 additive O/W lubricant during hot rolling to realise reduction of rolling force and power consumption.
Development of a Novel Shell Shaping Method with CFRTP: Forming Experiment Using Localized Heating in Processing Point
Authors: Ikari Tatsuki , Tanaka Hidetake , Asakawa Naoki
Published: October 2016

Currently, 3D printing has been attracting attention as a new method of prototyping and manufacturing. However, in the case of molding of the shell shaped resin, products by the additive manufacturing method has low strength of the interlayer adhesion and low stiffness of the light curing resin. For these reasons it is difficult to achieve the equivalent strength to injection-molded products.In study, in order to improve the strength of shell shape 3D printing, the authors propose a novel forming method by means of CFRTP and a forming system based on CAD data with local heating system, which can maintain the target formable temperature by a feedback control system was developed.
Experiment on Chemical Magnetorheological Finishing of SiC Single Crystal Wafer
Authors: Liang Hua Zhuo , Yan Qiu Sheng , Lu Jia Bin , Gao Wei Qiang
Published: October 2016

Experiment was performed to examine the plane polishing of SiC single crystal wafer by using the chemical magnetorheological finishing (CMRF) technique. The influence of some process parameters such as the concentration of diamond abrasive particles, the concentration of carbonyl iron powder and the machining gap in CMRF were studied comparing with the magnetorheological finishing (MRF) method. The results show that the surface roughness of polished SiC single crystal by the CMRF is slightly lower than that by the MRF. Polishing liquid with different components and processing parameters affects the coupling effect of mechanical removal and chemical removal in CMRF, and a better coupling effect can produce a better surface quality in CMRP. In the MRF, the surface roughness of SiC single crystal is lower for a higher concentration of carbonyl iron powder (CIP). However, in the CMRF, the CIP’s concentration may change the contact state between the catalyst and SiC, and the CIP’s concentration of about 20% can produce a better surface roughness of SiC. The machining gap between the polishing disk and the workpiece surface determines the processing effect, and the machining gap of 1.0 mm is suitable for the polishing of SiC in the MRF and CMRF.
An Advanced Support Method of Aircraft Skin Mirror Milling - Fluid Lubricating Support
Authors: Li Zhao , Bao Yan , Kang Ren Ke , Dong Zhi Gang , Zhou Ping , Jin Zhu Ji
Published: October 2016

A new support method used in aircraft skin mirror milling, liquid lubricating support, is proposed in order to solve the problems of scratching aircraft skin surface caused by rolling support or sliding support. The thickness and stiffness of liquid film between skin and support head are obtained with different feed pressure. The effects of thickness and stiffness of liquid film on surface quality and dimensional uniformity of workpiece are analyzed. The surface roughness is better under the condition of liquid film. With better film stiffness, dimensional uniformity is better, and actual axial cutting depth is closer to nominal axial cutting depth.
Development of Automatic Servo Tuning Function in Rotary Axis with DDM for Machine Tools and its Performance for Stable Machining
Authors: Ikegami Takakazu , Hirogaki Toshiki , Aoyama Eiichi
Published: October 2016

To advance technology of 5-axis control machining centers and future machine tools, it is essential to improve not only the performance of linear axes but also that of rotary axes. Therefore, direct drive motors (DDMs) employed for rotary axes of machine tools was developed by using the quality engineering and the FEM analysis of the electro-magnetic field. In this paper, the improvement impact on the performance of rotary axes from DDMs is described, and the influence of a workpiece position on the machine tool table on the kinematic performance is evaluated. Moreover, a novel method for tuning servo parameters automatically is proposed in order to improve the kinematic performance of a table axis with a workpiece which employs the DDM.
A Novel Method for Grinding Wheel Setting Based on Acoustic Emissions
Authors: Zhu Xiang Long , Jiao Zhen Hua , Kang Ren Ke , Wang Zi Guang , Xu Hui
Published: October 2016

Wheel setting is difficult in a grinding process and may directly apply a negative impact on grinding accuracy and efficiency. This study presents a novel method for grinding wheel setting based on acoustic emissions. The method experimentally detects the acoustic emission (AE) signals that come from the touch-down of the grinding wheel with the workpiece. The experimental results show that the measured AE signals monotonically increase with grinding depth and can be used for detection of wheel setting in a grinding process with a detection accuracy better than 0.5μm.
Exclusion of Organic Dye Using Neoteric Activated Carbon Prepared from Cornulaca monacantha Stem: Equilibrium and Thermodynamics Studies
Authors: Sharma Arush , Sharma Gaurav , Kumar Amit , Siddiqi Zia Mahmood , Sharma Gaurav
Published: October 2016

In this study, Cornulacamonacantha stem (CMS) has been used for the preparation of highly competent, ecofriendly and low-cost activated carbon (CMSAC) biosorbent. It was characterized by some instrumental techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The biosorbent was evaluated for the eradication of hazardous malachite green (MG) dye from aqueous solution. Batch experiments were conducted to assess the effect of various adsorption parameters such initial dye concentration, sorbent dosage, pH, agitation time and temperature. The results indicated that maximum sorption of MG was occurred at the pH ranged from 10.0 to 12.0. Langmuir, Freundlich and Tempkin isotherms were applied for the interpretation of experimental data and Langmuir model was found to be strongly fitted with higher R2 (0.999). The kinetics studies were examined using pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, Elovich model. The sorption process was described by pseudo-second-order kinetics. The thermodynamic parameters such as energy change (ΔG°), enthalpychange (ΔH°) and entropy change (ΔS°) were found to be-6.21kJ/mol, 46.17 kJ/mol and 172.81 J/mol/K, respectively. The adsorption performance of malachite green dye onto gleaming activated carbon developed from Cornulacamonacantha stem was found to be spontaneous, feasible and endothermic process.
Calcium Carbonate and Cellulose/Calcium Carbonate Composites: Synthesis, Characterization, and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Ma Ming Guo , Liu Shan , Fu Lian Hua
Published: October 2016

CaCO3 has six polymorphs such as vaterite, aragonite, calcite, amorphous, crystalline monohydrate, and hexahydrate CaCO3. CaCO3 is a typical biomineral that is abundant in both organisms and nature and has important industrial applications. Cellulose could be used as feedstocks for producing biofuels, bio-based chemicals, and high value-added bio-based materials. In the past, more attentions have been paid to the synthesis and applications of CaCO3 and cellulose/CaCO3 nanocomposites due to its relating properties such as mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and biodegradation, and bioactivity, and potential applications including biomedical, antibacterial, and water pretreatment fields as functional materials. A variety of synthesis methods such as the hydrothermal/solvothermal method, biomimetic mineralization method, microwave-assisted method, (co-) precipitation method, and sonochemistry method, were employed to the preparation of CaCO3 and cellulose/CaCO3 nanocomposites. In this chapter, the recent development of CaCO3 and cellulose/CaCO3 nanocomposites has been reviewed. The synthesis, characterization, and biomedical applications of CaCO3 and cellulose/CaCO3 nanocomposites are summarized. The future developments of CaCO3 and cellulose/CaCO3 nanocomposites are also suggested.
Hydrogel: Polymeric Smart Material in Drug Delivery
Authors: Das Ranjana , Samanta Himadri Sekhar , Bhattacharjee Chiranjib
Published: October 2016

A ‘biomaterial’, recognizes some materials for biomedical applications like replacement of living system and wound stressing. ‘Biomaterials’ includes different compounds from diverse origins, like polymers, metals, ceramics and composites. Along with conventional natural polymers (polysaccharides, proteins), synthetic and biodegradable polymers like Polyvinyl alcohol, Polyvinylpyrrolidone, Polyetheleneglycol, Polylactic acid, Polyhydroxy acid are promisingly used in drug delivery, tissue engineering, biomedical sensing, skin grafting and medical adhesives. ‘Hydrogel’ a new generation biodegradable polymer typically used for pharmaceutical and medical purposes. Hydrogels are coined as super absorbent with significant function in health care, especially in wound treatment and protection. Unique characteristics features like enhanced hydrophilicity, biocompatibility, zero-toxicity and biodegradability along with soft and rubbery consistency, low interfacial tension and ‘self-healing’ properties make them compatible with living tissues. Hydrogels have been widely investigated as the carrier for drug delivery systems owing to their unusual characteristics like swelling in aqueous medium, pH and temperature sensitivity, or sensitivity towards other stimuli. Hydrogels being biocompatible materials have been recognized to function as drug protectors, especially for peptides and proteins, from in-vivo environment. In present context, development of ‘in situ’ forming systems for various biomedical applications, including drug delivery, cell encapsulation, and tissue repair are emerging. Among several typical hydrogel synthesis approaches like, solvent exchange, UV-irradiation, ionic cross-linkage, pH change, and temperature modulation, the ‘thermosensitive’ approach is advantageous since it does not require use of any organic solvents, co-polymerization agents and externally applied trigger for gelation. This review presents an overview to the advances in hydrogel based drug delivery system with some reconstructive features in the biomedical applications.
Microcellular Foam Injection Molding of Thermoplastics Using Green Physical Blowing Agent
Authors: Rizvi S.J.A.
Published: October 2016

The microcellular injection molding technology, commercially offered by Trexel Inc. and other manufacturers, is primarily a close cell foaming technique. This process is capable of offering light weight non-porous thermoplastics moldings. The foaming of thermoplastics with open cellular morphology has got various high end applications among others like tissue engineering and membrane separation. Some of the researchers were successful in synthesis of open cellular thermoplastics at laboratory scale via solid state batch process. The growing demand for microporous thermoplastics, especially the biodegradable plastics (e.g. Polylactic acid), motivated the researchers develop a specialized microcellular injection molding process for processing of open cell thermoplastics using physical blowing agents such as supercritical nitrogen or carbon dioxide gas. A brief of theoretical and conceptual treatment of microcellular injection molding is presented.
The ABCDs of Managing Morbidly Obese Patients in Intensive Care Units
Authors: Berrios Luis A.
Published: October 2016

More than one-third of the US adult population and 17% of the youth are now obese, and obesity is associated with more than $147 billion a year in health care costs. Critical care nurses should understand the physiological differences and practice guidelines for patients with a body mass index greater than 30. The ABCD approach encompasses key clinical concepts in the management of critically ill obese and morbidly obese patients, including management of airways and breathing, minimizing nurses’ back and other injuries, increasing awareness of bias, circulation problems, risks of decubitus ulcers and other skin breakdown, differences in drug calculations and metabolism, limitations in diagnostic equipment and imaging, diet and nutritional recommendations, and concerns with durable medical equipment.
Understanding the Hybrid Stage I Approach for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Authors: Cheatham Sharon L. , Deyo Grace M.
Published: October 2016

Hybrid stage I palliation combines cardiothoracic surgery and interventional transcatheter procedures for treatment of hypoplastic left heart syndrome. The approach is an alternative to the Norwood procedure, the traditional first stage of surgical palliation. Hybrid stage I palliation involves placing bilateral branch pulmonary artery bands and a patent ductus arteriosus stent through a median sternotomy, performed without cardiopulmonary bypass. The purpose of the bands is to control blood flow to the lungs and protect the pulmonary bed while the stent sustains systemic cardiac output. A balloon atrial septostomy is performed to create an atrial septal defect for unobstructed blood flow from the left atrium to the right atrium. The second stage of palliative surgery is the comprehensive stage II, which incorporates removal of the stent and pulmonary artery bands, atrial septectomy, anastomosis of the diminutive ascending aorta to the main pulmonary artery, aortic arch augmentation, and bidirectional cavopulmonary anastomosis. The traditional Fontan procedure completes the series of palliation.
Esophageal Pressure Measurements in Patients With Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Hofmann Grace , Haan Lutana , Anderson Jeff
Published: October 2016

Esophageal balloons are used in the respiratory monitoring of critical care patients. After the esophageal pressure is measured, the corresponding pleural pressure in the thorax can be projected, enabling lung-thorax compliance to be partitioned into chest-wall compliance and lung compliance. The esophageal balloon allows determination of transpulmonary pressures and a correspondingly individually tailored approach to respiratory care, such as patient-specific titration of positive end-expiratory pressure for patients with extrapulmonary acute respiratory distress syndrome. Esophageal balloon monitoring provides critical information for selecting ventilation strategies to use in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Report on the life history traits of the generalist predatorForficula auricularia(Dermaptera: Forficulidae) in organic apple orchards in southeastern France
Authors: Dib Hazem , Sauphanor Benoît , Capowiez Yvan
Published: October 2016

The aim of this paper is to provide detailed data on the reproduction of the European earwigForficula auriculariaLinnaeus (Dermaptera: Forficulidae) under natural conditions. We also describe its spring field population structure and dynamics in organic apple orchards in southeastern France using artificial and natural shelters. Two nymph cohorts could be distinguished in a laboratory reproduction study. The first brood, following the first egg-laying event in late November, had significantly higher pre-imaginal survival (1.74-fold) than the second brood in early April. The egg phase was the most vulnerable with a higher mortality rate in the first brood than the second. Independent of brood number, nymphal survival increased from second nymphal instars (N2) onwards with values higher than 96%. In orchards, N3 were generally observed in natural and artificial shelters from the end of April to mid-June. N4 was the most abundant life stage sampled and the only stage present at the majority of sampling dates, especially from early May onwards. Beginning in June, the abundance of new adults of a given year gradually increased especially in the artificial shelters. This descriptive study can now be used to develop phenological models aimed at limiting earwig mortality due to horticultural management practices and increasing their predation level in conservative or augmentative approaches.
Anandamide Suppresses Proinflammatory T Cell Responses In Vitro through Type-1 Cannabinoid Receptor–Mediated mTOR Inhibition in Human Keratinocytes
Authors: Chiurchiù Valerio , Rapino Cinzia , Talamonti Emanuela , Leuti Alessandro , Lanuti Mirko , Gueniche Audrey , Jourdain Roland , Breton Lionel , Maccarrone Mauro
Published: October 2016

The endocannabinoid system comprises cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2), their endogenous ligands, anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol, and metabolic enzymes of these ligands. The endocannabinoid system has recently been implicated in the regulation of various pathophysiological processes of the skin that include immune competence and/or tolerance of keratinocytes, the disruption of which might promote the development of skin diseases. Recent evidence showed that CB1 in keratinocytes limits the secretion of proinflammatory chemokines, suggesting that this receptor might also regulate T cell dependent inflammatory diseases of the skin. In this article, we sought to investigate the cytokine profile of IFN-γ-activated keratinocytes, and found that CB1 activation by AEA suppressed production and release of signature TH1- and TH17-polarizing cytokines, IL-12 and IL-23, respectively. We also set up cocultures between a conditioned medium of treated keratinocytes and naive T cells to disclose the molecular details that regulate the activation of highly proinflammatory TH1 and TH17 cells. AEA-treated keratinocytes showed reduced an induction of IFN-γ-producing TH1 and IL-17-producing TH17 cells, and these effects were reverted by pharmacological inhibition of CB1. Further analyses identified mammalian target of rapamycin as a proinflammatory signaling pathway regulated by CB1, able to promote either IL-12 and IL-23 release from keratinocytes or TH1 and TH17 polarization. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that AEA suppresses highly pathogenic T cell subsets through CB1-mediated mammalian target of rapamycin inhibition in human keratinocytes. Thus, it can be speculated that the latter pathway might be beneficial to the physiological function of the skin, and can be targeted toward inflammation-related skin diseases.
Inositol-Triphosphate 3-Kinase C Mediates Inflammasome Activation and Treatment Response in Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Alphonse Martin Prince , Duong Trang T. , Shumitzu Chisato , Hoang Truong Long , McCrindle Brian W. , Franco Alessandra , Schurmans Stéphane , Philpott Dana J. , Hibberd Martin L. , Burns Jane , Kuijpers Taco W. , Yeung Rae S. M.
Published: October 2016

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a multisystem vasculitis that predominantly targets the coronary arteries in children. Phenotypic similarities between KD and recurrent fever syndromes point to the potential role of inflammasome activation in KD. Mutations in NLRP3 are associated with recurrent fever/autoinflammatory syndromes. We show that the KD-associated genetic polymorphism in inositol-triphosphate 3-kinase C (ITPKC) (rs28493229) has important functional consequences, governing ITPKC protein levels and thereby intracellular calcium, which in turn regulates NLRP3 expression and production of IL-1β and IL-18. Analysis of transcript abundance, protein levels, and cellular response profiles from matched, serial biospecimens from a cohort of genotyped KD subjects points to the critical role of ITPKC in mediating NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Treatment failure in those with the high-risk ITPKC genotype was associated with the highest basal and stimulated intracellular calcium levels and with increased cellular production of IL-1β and IL-18 and higher circulating levels of both cytokines. Mechanistic studies using Itpkc-deficient mice in a disease model support the genomic, cellular, and clinical findings in affected children. Our findings provide the mechanism behind the observed efficacy of rescue therapy with IL-1 blockade in recalcitrant KD, and we identify that regulation of calcium mobilization is fundamental to the underlying immunobiology in KD.
MK2/3 Are Pivotal for IL-33–Induced and Mast Cell–Dependent Leukocyte Recruitment and the Resulting Skin Inflammation
Authors: Drube Sebastian , Kraft Florian , Dudeck Jan , Müller Anna-Lena , Weber Franziska , Göpfert Christiane , Meininger Isabel , Beyer Mandy , Irmler Ingo , Häfner Norman , Schütz Dagmar , Stumm Ralf , Yakovleva Tatiana , Gaestel Matthias , Dudeck Anne , Kamradt Thomas
Published: October 2016

The IL-1R family member IL-33R mediates Fcε-receptor-I (FcεRI)-independent activation of mast cells leading to NF-κB activation and consequently the production of cytokines. IL-33 also induces the activation of MAPKs, such as p38. We aimed to define the relevance of the p38-targets, the MAPK-activated protein kinases 2 and 3 (MK2 and MK3) in IL-33-induced signaling and the resulting mast cell effector functions in vitro and in vivo. We demonstrate that the IL-33-induced IL-6 and IL-13 production strongly depends on the MK2/3-mediated activation of ERK1/2 and PI3K signaling. Furthermore, in the presence of the stem cell factors, IL-33 did induce an MK2/3-, ERK1/2- and PI3K-dependent production of TNF-α. In vivo, the loss of MK2/3 in mast cells decreased the IL-33-induced leukocyte recruitment and the resulting skin inflammation. Therefore, the MK2/3-dependent signaling in mast cells is essential to mediate IL-33-induced inflammatory responses. Thus, MK2/3 are potential therapeutic targets for suppression of IL-33-induced inflammation skin diseases such as psoriasis.
CD4-Transgenic Zebrafish Reveal Tissue-Resident Th2- and Regulatory T Cell–like Populations and Diverse Mononuclear Phagocytes
Authors: Dee Christopher T. , Nagaraju Raghavendar T. , Athanasiadis Emmanouil I. , Gray Caroline , Fernandez del Ama Laura , Johnston Simon A. , Secombes Christopher J. , Cvejic Ana , Hurlstone Adam F. L.
Published: October 2016

CD4+ T cells are at the nexus of the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system. However, little is known about the evolutionary history of CD4+ T cells, and it is unclear whether their differentiation into specialized subsets is conserved in early vertebrates. In this study, we have created transgenic zebrafish with vibrantly labeled CD4+ cells allowing us to scrutinize the development and specialization of teleost CD4+ leukocytes in vivo. We provide further evidence that CD4+ macrophages have an ancient origin and had already emerged in bony fish. We demonstrate the utility of this zebrafish resource for interrogating the complex behavior of immune cells at cellular resolution by the imaging of intimate contacts between teleost CD4+ T cells and mononuclear phagocytes. Most importantly, we reveal the conserved subspecialization of teleost CD4+ T cells in vivo. We demonstrate that the ancient and specialized tissues of the gills contain a resident population of il-4/13b–expressing Th2-like cells, which do not coexpress il-4/13a. Additionally, we identify a contrasting population of regulatory T cell–like cells resident in the zebrafish gut mucosa, in marked similarity to that found in the intestine of mammals. Finally, we show that, as in mammals, zebrafish CD4+ T cells will infiltrate melanoma tumors and obtain a phenotype consistent with a type 2 immune microenvironment. We anticipate that this unique resource will prove invaluable for future investigation of T cell function in biomedical research, the development of vaccination and health management in aquaculture, and for further research into the evolution of adaptive immunity.
Comparing Administrative and Clinical Data for Central Line Associated Blood Stream Infections in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and Pediatric Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Bond Jory , Issa Mohamed , Nasrallah Ali , Bahroloomi Sheena , Blackwood Roland A.
Published: October 2016

Central line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are a frequent source of health complication for patients of all ages, including for patients in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and Pediatric Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Unit (PCTU). Many hospitals, including the University of Michigan Health System, currently use the International Classification of Disease (ICD) coding system when coding for CLABSI. The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of coding for CLABSI infections with ICD-9CM codes in PICU and PCTU patients. A retrospective chart review was conducted for 75 PICU and PCTU patients with 90 events of hospital acquired central line infections at the University of Michigan Health System (from 2007-2011). The different variables examined in the chart review included the type of central line the patient had, the duration of the stay of the line, the type of organism infecting the patient, and the treatment the patient received. A review was conducted to assess if patients had received the proper ICD-9CM code for their hospital acquired infection. In addition, each patient chart was searched using Electronic Medical Record Search Engine to determine if any phrases that commonly referred to hospital acquired CLABSIs were present in their charts. Our review found that in most CLABSI cases the hospital’s administrative data diagnosis using ICD-9CM coding systems did not code for the CLABSI. Our results indicate a low sensitivity of 32% in the PICU and an even lower sensitivity of 12% in the PCTU. Using these results, we can conclude that the ICD-9CM coding system cannot be used for accurately defining hospital acquired CLABSIs in administrative data. With the new use of the ICD- 10CM coding system, further research is needed to assess the effects of the ICD-10CM coding system on the accuracy of administrative data.
Mechanical oil extraction of Nicotiana tabacum L. seeds: analysis of main extraction parameters on oil yield
Authors: Faugno Salvatore , Del Piano Luisa , Crimaldi Mariano , Ricciardiello Gennaro , Sannino Maura
Published: October 2016

The aim of this study is to find the best conditions of tobacco seed oil (TSO) press extraction, combining multiple extraction factors such as screw rotational speed, seeds preheating and extraction temperature, in order to have a higher oil yield. The extracted oil, having peculiar chemical properties, can be used for several purposes, also as edible oil. TSO was obtained using a mechanical screw press that has been assembled with a head press and with speed and temperature sensors mounted on the machine. Results show that the combination of high extraction temperature, slow rotational screw speed and seeds preheating has a significant effect on the oil yield. Extracting under such conditions, oil yield is 79.47±0.12 as % (w/w), which is 25% (w/w) more than the lowest yield among investigated condition.
Establishing soil loss tolerance: an overview
Authors: Di Stefano Costanza , Ferro Vito
Published: October 2016

Soil loss tolerance is a criterion for establishing if a soil is potentially subjected to erosion risk, productivity loss and if a river presents downstream over-sedimentation or other off-site effects are present at basin scale. At first this paper reviews the concept of tolerable soil loss and summarises the available definitions and the knowledge on the recommended values and evaluating criteria. Then a threshold soil loss value, at the annual temporal scale, established for limiting riling was used for defining the classical soil loss tolerance. Finally, some research needs on tolerable soil loss are listed.
Bruises around the Umbilicus in an Infant
Authors: Hassan Sam , Nakib Ghassan , Saviour Mary J.
Published: October 2016

The most common causes of umbilical discharge in infancy are infection and umbilical granuloma that may be treated by antibiotics and topical application of silver nitrate subsequently. If the umbilical discharge persists or if there is any abnormal discoloration around the umbilicus, it is important to investigate for underlying congenital abnormality that may be cured by surgical intervention. Unusual presentation of omphalomesenteric duct cyst has been reported in literature. We report, for the first time as far as our search is concerned, a case of a 16-month-old infant who presented initially with persistent umbilical discharge and finally with bruising around the umbilicus in keeping with Cullen’s sign. A diagnosis of omphalomesenteric duct cyst containing pancreatic tissue was made on histopathological examination. This case emphasizes that, a persistent umbilical discharge and or discoloration around the umbilicus should be further investigated and an omphalomesenteric duct cyst can present as Cullen’s sign.
Discovering MicroRNA-Regulatory Modules in Multi-Dimensional Cancer Genomic Data: A Survey of Computational Methods
Authors: Walsh Christopher J. , Hu Pingzhao , Batt Jane , Santos Claudia C. Dos
Published: October 2016

MicroRNAs (miRs) are small single-stranded noncoding RNA that function in RNA silencing and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. An increasing number of studies have shown that miRs play an important role in tumorigenesis, and understanding the regulatory mechanism of miRs in this gene regulatory network will help elucidate the complex biological processes at play during malignancy. Despite advances, determination of miR–target interactions (MTIs) and identification of functional modules composed of miRs and their specific targets remain a challenge. A large amount of data generated by high-throughput methods from various sources are available to investigate MTIs. The development of data-driven tools to harness these multi-dimensional data has resulted in significant progress over the past decade. In parallel, large-scale cancer genomic projects are allowing new insights into the commonalities and disparities of miR–target regulation across cancers. In the first half of this review, we explore methods for identification of pairwise MTIs, and in the second half, we explore computational tools for discovery of miR-regulatory modules in a cancer-specific and pan-cancer context. We highlight strengths and limitations of each of these tools as a practical guide for the computational biologists.
Regularity estimates for convex functions in Carnot–Carathéodory spaces
Authors: Magnani Valentino , Scienza Matteo
Published: October 2016

We prove some first order regularity estimates for a class of convex functions in Carnot–Carathéodory spaces, generated by Hörmander vector fields. Our approach relies on both the structure of metric balls induced by Hörmander vector fields and local upper estimates for the corresponding subharmonic functions.
Large deviation spectra based on wavelet leaders
Authors: Bastin Françoise , Esser Céline , Jaffard Stéphane
Published: October 2016

We introduce a quantity that encapsulates the information given by the distribution at each scale of the wavelet leaders of a function, and which is independent of the chosen wavelet basis. This leads naturally to the definition of a new multifractal formalism which allows to detect non-concave multifractal spectra
Digital fixed points, approximate fixed points, and universal functions
Authors: Boxer Laurence , Ege Ozgur , Karaca Ismet , Lopez Jonathan , Louwsma Joel
Published: October 2016

A. Rosenfeld [23] introduced the notion of a digitally continuous function between digital images, and showed that although digital images need not have fixed point properties analogous to those of the Euclidean spaces modeled by the images, there often are approximate fixed point properties of such images. In the current paper, we obtain additional results concerning fixed points and approximate fixed points of digitally continuous functions. Among these are several results concerning the relationship between universal functions and the approximate fixed point property (AFPP).
MATLAB as a tool as Analysis and Problem Solving Competency Development in Chemical Engineering Degree using MATLAB
Authors: López-Pérez Maria-Fernanda , Cardona S. C. , Lora J. , Abad A.
Published: October 2016

Analysis and solving problems is a Chemical Engineering student capability. In order to develop this ability, activities that encompass problem-solving by students may involve problems in real-world settings.

In Chemical Engineering degree, MATLAB is a numerical software package that helps in the process of designing, evaluating and implementing a strategy to answer an open-ended question or achieve a desired goal.  In this context, Matlab is software used in process simulation. Several lectures of Escuela Politécnica Superior d’Alcoi presented an innovation and improvement educational research project (PIME) in order to used MATLAB, like coordination teaching tool between some subjects.

The principal purpose of this work is the students improvement using, as has been mentioned previously, MATLAB in a problem-based learning methodology. This methodology allows a more effective coordination in the degree. The present paper presents a real- world problem and the common elements of most problem-solving contexts and how is designed to function across all disciplines.
Engaging and Assessing Students through their Electronic Devices and Real Time Quizzes
Authors: Ferrándiz E. , Puentes C. , Moreno P. J. , Flores E.
Published: October 2016

This paper describes a teaching experience using Socrative, a third party electronic tool, for real-time questioning in lectures of Econometrics.  Econometrics is a theoretical-practical subject, but traditionally a large proportion of our students tend to focus on the practical and discard the theory, often skipping classes on theory and avoiding studying its content, probably motivated by its complexity. As a consequence, students’ marks obtained in the theoretical part of the exam are usually low. In this context, we put forward a change in our teaching methodology to include the use of Socrative, a freely available app, that allows students to answer teachers’ short, true/false, or multiple choice questions posed during each class using their smartphones (or other electronic devices with Internet connection). The objectives of this project are twofold: 1) to engage students and increase attendance at lectures; 2) to improve feedback on the learning process. The results of a survey of a sample of 186 students reveal that Socrative has been an effective tool for achieving these objectives.
Applied Mathematical Problems in Engineering
Authors: Llopis-Albert Carlos , Palacios-Marques Daniel
Published: October 2016

There is a close relationship between engineering and mathematics, which has led to the development of new techniques in recent years. Likewise the developments in technology and computers have led to new ways of teaching mathematics for engineering students and the use of modern techniques and methods.  This research aims to provide insight on how to deal with mathematical problems for engineering students. This is performed by means of a fuzzy set/Qualitative Comparative Analysis applied to conflict resolution of Public Participation Projects in support to the EU Water Framework Directive.
Bailando con Dioniso: el mito de Leucipo y Daphne de Richard Strauss y Joseph Gregor
Authors: Díaz Gito Manuel Antonio
Published: October 2016

Primera parte de un artículo dividido en dos que analiza la profunda reinterpretación que del mito de Dafne llevaron a cabo, a partir del relato alternativo de Partenio de Nicea más que del célebre relato de Ovidio, Richard Strauss y su libretista Joseph Gregor en su versión operística Daphne (1938). El objetivo final es someter a examen la declaración expresa de Strauss sobre el significado de su nueva ópera y si a través de la manipulación del argumento mítico los autores lograron alcanzar su objetivo.
The depoliticized politics of crowdfunding: A critical examination of the Darren Wilson crowdfunding campaign
Authors: Gehring David
Published: October 2016

On 9 August 2014, Darren Wilson, a white police officer, shot and killed Michael Brown, an unarmed black teenager, in Ferguson, Missouri. Soon after the shooting, two crowdfunding campaigns were organized through the GoFundMe platform, one for Darren Wilson and one for the family of Michael Brown. Using the work of Bauman, Dean, and Fuchs, I argue that these crowdfunding campaigns function as neoliberal mechanisms. Through the depoliticization and displacement of political energies, and the redirection of those energies towards the private sphere, these campaigns provide for affective political expression while simultaneously neutralizing its disruptive political potential.
Nurturing non-market spaces in the digital environment
Authors: Graham Roderick
Published: October 2016

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) produce public goods for societies. Through ICTs people can be more politically active, construct their social identities, strengthen bonds with significant others, and more. However, businesses provide access to the Internet, produce and sell hardware and software, while maintaining platforms that are used for the generation of these public goods. There is a contradiction inherent in this dynamic as the continued provision of these public goods is contingent upon private entities deeming them profitable. Within the United States, federal policies have not adequately addressed this contradiction. In this paper, I argue that a change in the way ICTs are conceptualized is needed in order to increase interest in protecting the public goods produced by ICTs. To this end, I describe a model in which interconnected ICTs work in layers to produce a single digital environment. People must have access to each layer in this environment in order to benefit from the goods produced. In this environment, there is room for both market spaces that support commerce and non-market spaces that support public goods. I argue that this model can aid citizens and advocacy groups in framing and justifying the need for nurturing non-market spaces.
Potential use cases for the development of an electronic health facility registry in Nigeria: Key informant’s perspectives
Authors: Makinde Olusesan Ayodeji , Azeez Aderemi , Adebayo Wura
Published: October 2016

BackgroundMaster facility lists (MFL) maintain an important standard (unique identifier) in country health information systems that will aid integration and interoperability of multiple health facility based data sources. However, this standard is not readily available in several low and middle income countries where reliable data is most needed for efficient planning. The World Health Organization in 2012 drew up guidelines for the creation of MFLs in countries but this guideline still requires domestication and process modeling for each country adopting it. Nigeria in 2013 published a paper-based MFL directory which it hopes to migrate to an electronic MFL registry for use across the country.ObjectiveTo identify the use cases of importance in the development of an electronic health facility registry to manage the MFL compiled in Nigeria.MethodsPotential use cases for the health facility registry were identified through consultations with key informants at the Federal Ministry of Health. These will serve as input into an electronic MFL registry development effort.ResultsThe use cases identified include: new health facility is created, update of status of health facility, close-out, relocation, new information available, delete and management of multi-branch health facility.ConclusionDevelopment of an application for the management of MFLs requires proper architectural analysis of the manifestations that can befall a health facility through its lifecycle. A MFL electronic registry will be invaluable to manage health facility data and will aid the integration and interoperability of health facility information systems.