bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unresectable Carcinoma Pancreas : Efficacy of Imaging in Diagnosing and Labeling them as Unresectable
Authors: Al Farooq Md Abdullah , Rahman MA Mushfiqur , Tajreen Tania , Rahman Eqramur , Sajid Md Minhajuddin , Ali Mohammad
Published: August 2015

Background: Carcinoma pancreas is being diagnosed increasingly with the help of conventional imaging like ultrasonography (USG), computerized tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).Imaging also gives the opportunity to assess resectability. In our country MRI and CT scan are not widely available and most of the pancreatic carcinoma is too advanced for curative surgical resection when diagnosed. These are unresectable carcinoma pancreas (UCP). Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of imaging in diagnosing carcinoma pancreas and to assess resectability after comparing them with peroperative findings. Methods: This retrospective study was carried out in the department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery in Bangladesh Institute for Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetic Endocrine and Metabolic disorders (BIRDEM) hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2004 to June 2006 (2 years). After laparotomy findings and histopathological confirmation 50 patients were labeled as UCP. Among 50 patients male were 28 & female patients were 22. Imaging modalities used before surgery was assessed and compared with per operative findings. USG were done in all patients and CTscan in 45 patients. MRI was done in 08 patients suspected clinically as pancreatic carcinoma where USG /CT scan had failed to reach a conclusion. Findings of the various imaging studies regarding diagnosis and unresectability were compared with per operative findings. Results: USG was able to diagnose 42 (84%) pancreatic carcinoma patients with unresectibility in 29 (69%). Forty five patients (90%) were diagnosed by CT scan and could label 38 (84.44%) as unresectable. MRI was 100% accurate to diagnose and label the entire 08 patient as unresectable carcinoma pancreas. Cumulative multimodal preoperative imaging was 91.33% accurate in diagnosing carcinoma pancreas and could tell the features of unresectibility in 73.59% patients. Conclusion: CT scan should be the primary imaging modality for diagnosing pancreatic carcinoma and its resectability. MRI is very promising for diagnosing and assessing UCP. Multimodal imaging is better than single imaging. Chattagram Maa-O-Shishu Hospital Medical College Journal Volume 12, Issue 3, September 2013: 23-26
Bardet-Bidel Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Hossain Kamal , Badruddoza Md
Published: August 2015

BardetBiedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare autosomal recessive ciliopathic human genetic disorder characterized by retinal dystrophy, truncal obesity, post-axial polydactyly, renal dysfunction, learning difficulties and hypogonadism. Many associated minor features can be helpful in making a diagnosis and are important in the clinical management of BBS. The diagnosis is based on clinical findings and can be confirmed by sequencing of known disease-causing genes in 80% of patients. BBS genes encode proteins that localize to the cilia and basal body and are involved in cilia biogenesis and function. Mutations lead to defective cilia accounting in part for the pleiotropic effects observed in BBS. We have presented a 11 years old female patient exhibiting characteristic features of Bardet Biedl syndrome (BBS) and then the literature is reviewed. Chattagram Maa-O-Shishu Hospital Medical College Journal Volume 12, Issue 3, September 2013: 67-69
Measuring medical education environment in Bangladesh
Authors: Laskar MS
Published: August 2015

Abstract not availableMediscope Vol. 2, No. 1: 2015, Pages 1-3
Impact of Momordica charantia (karela) on serum aspartate aminotransferase level in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats
Authors: Mohal S , Mondal DK , Chowdhury PK , Biswas H , Khanom A , Shamim KM
Published: August 2015

The  present  experimental  study  was  conducted  to  investigate  whether  Momordica  charantia  (karela)  has  got  any  impact  on  serum  aspartate  aminotransferase  (AST)  level  in  the  streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Sixty healthy young Long Evans rats of male sex weighing  150 to 280 gm aged between 10 to 12 weeks were used in this study. The rats were divided into  4 equal groups depending on their different sorts of dietary feedings and drug treatment. Serum  AST level was estimated in all rats up to day 51 from the day of streptozotocin/ vehicle injection.  The mean ± SD of final serum AST level as percentage of corresponding initial level (value on  51st day  to  the  value  on  7th day) was  95.1  ±  13.4  u/L  in  healthy  rats,  110.0  ±  7.6  u/L  in  the  untreated diabetic rats, 39.4 ± 10.1 u/L in the insulin-treated diabetic rats and 109.5 ± 23.8 u/L  in  the  karela-treated  diabetic  rats. The AST percentage  change  value  of  diabetic  rats  on  51st  day  corresponding  to  the  initial  on  7th day was  significantly  higher  than  that  healthy  rats  (p  <  0.01).  The  value  in  the  insulin-treated  diabetic  rats  was  significantly  lower  than  that  of  the  untreated diabetic rats (p < 0.001) and the karela-treated diabetic rats (p < 0.001). There was no  significant  difference  between  the  values  of  the  untreated  diabetic  rats  and  the  karela-treated  diabetic  rats  (p  >  0.05).  Karela showed  a  tendency  of  acting  against hyperglycemic  effects  of  streptozotocin  induced  diabetes  mellitus  and  also  acting  against  high  serum  aspartate  aminotransferase  (AST)  level  in  streptozotocin  induced  diabetes  mellitus.  However,  further  investigations  are  recommended  for  establishing  karela  as  a  safe  and  useful  effective  anti-hyperglycemic  agent  as  well  as  an  agent  acting  against  the  rise  in  serum  AST  level  in  streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.Mediscope Vol. 2, No. 1: 2015, Pages 18-21
Prolonged Anti-Orthostatic Hind Limb Unloading and Murine Allergic Asthma
Authors: Jang Tae Young , Heo Min-Jeong , Jung Ah-Yeoun , Kim Young Hyo
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND: Hind limb unloading (HU) is one of the ground-based models of simulated microgravity. As bacterial and viral infections could affect the immune system, the immunologic effect of HU should be studied in a specific-pathogen-free (SPF) laboratory. However, a review of
the literature did not reveal any studies on the immunologic effects of prolonged HU in a murine model of allergic disease. Accordingly, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of HU in a murine model of allergic asthma in a SPF laboratory.METHODS: Twenty BALB/c
mice were allocated equally to Group A (control group), Group B (HU group), Group C (allergic group), or Group D (allergic + HU group). Weight gains, serum total and ovalbumin (OVA)-specific IgE, titers of IL-1, IL-5, IL-10, and IFN-γ in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid, and histopathologic
findings of the lungs were compared.RESULTS: After 2 wk of HU, Group D showed significantly more weight loss (−2.0 ± 0.2 g) than Group C (−1.1 ± 0.4 g). Groups B and D showed significant increases in serum OVA-specific IgE as compared with Groups A and
C. Group D had significantly lower titers of IL-5 (Group C: 53.0 ± 15.2 pg · ml−1, Group D: 21.9 ± 13.9 pg · ml−1), IL-10 (Group C: 430.8 ± 138.3 pg · ml−1, Group D: 217.6 ± 51.2 pg ·
ml−1), and IFN-γ (Group C: 104.3 ± 37.5 pg · ml−1, Group D: 36.7 ± 12.8 pg · ml−1) in BAL fluid than Group C. Peri-bronchiolar and pulmonary infiltrations of inflammatory cells were significantly greater in
Group D than in Group C.CONCLUSIONS: Prolonged HU may cause significant weight loss and aggravate disease courses.Jang TY, Heo M-J, Jung A-Y, Kim YH. Prolonged anti-orthostatic hind limb unloading and murine allergic asthma. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(9):803–807.
A Novel Rotary Piezoelectric Motor Using First Bending Hybrid Transducers
Authors: Liu Yingxiang , Xu Dongmei , Yu Zhaoyang , Yan Jipeng , Yang Xiaohui , Chen Weishan
Published: August 2015

We report a novel rotary piezoelectric motor using bending transducers in this work. Three transducers are used to drive a disk-shaped rotor together by the elliptical movements of their driving tips; these motions are produced by the hybrid of two first bending vibration modes. The proposed piezoelectric transducer has a simple structure as it only contains an aluminum alloy beam and four pieces of PZT plates. Symmetrical structure is the only necessary condition in the design process as it will ensure the resonance frequencies of the two orthogonal first bending modes are equal. Transducers with first bending resonance frequency of about 53 kHz were fabricated and assembled into a rotary motor. The proposed motor exhibits good performance on speed and torque control. Under a working frequency of 53.2 kHz, the maximum no-load speed and the maximum torque of the prototype are tested to be 53.3 rpm and of 27 mN·m.
Surface-Initiated Graft Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization of Methyl Methacrylate from Chitin Nanofiber Macroinitiator under Dispersion Conditions
Authors: Endo Ryo , Yamamoto Kazuya , Kadokawa Jun-ichi
Published: August 2015

Surface-initiated graft atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of methyl methacrylate (MMA) from self-assembled chitin nanofibers (CNFs) was performed under dispersion conditions. Self-assembled CNFs were initially prepared by regeneration from a chitin ion gel with 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide using methanol; the product was then converted into the chitin nanofiber macroinitiator by reaction with α-bromoisobutyryl bromide in a dispersion containing N,N-dimethylformamide. Surface-initiated graft ATRP of MMA from the initiating sites on the CNFs was subsequently carried out under dispersion conditions, followed by filtration to obtain the CNF-graft-polyMMA film. Analysis of the product confirmed the occurrence of the graft ATRP on the surface of the CNFs.
4-(Phenylsulfanyl)butan-2-One Suppresses Melanin Synthesis and Melanosome Maturation In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Wu Shing-Yi , Wang Hui-Min , Wen Yi-Shan , Liu Wangta , Li Pin-Hui , Chiu Chien-Chih , Chen Pei-Chin , Huang Chiung-Yao , Sheu Jyh-Horng , Wen Zhi-Hong
Published: August 2015

In this study, we screened compounds with skin whitening properties and favorable safety profiles from a series of marine related natural products, which were isolated from Formosan soft coral Cladiella australis. Our results indicated that 4-(phenylsulfanyl)butan-2-one could successfully inhibit pigment generation processes in mushroom tyrosinase platform assay, probably through the suppression of tyrosinase activity to be a non-competitive inhibitor of tyrosinase. In cell-based viability examinations, it demonstrated low cytotoxicity on melanoma cells and other normal human cells. It exhibited stronger inhibitions of melanin production and tyrosinase activity than arbutin or 1-phenyl-2-thiourea (PTU). Also, we discovered that 4-(phenylsulfanyl)butan-2-one reduces the protein expressions of melanin synthesis-related proteins, including the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase-related protein-1 (Trp-1), dopachrome tautomerase (DCT, Trp-2), and glycoprotein 100 (GP100). In an in vivo zebrafish model, it presented a remarkable suppression in melanogenesis after 48 h. In summary, our in vitro and in vivo biological assays showed that 4-(phenylsulfanyl)butan-2-one possesses anti-melanogenic properties that are significant in medical cosmetology.
The Effect of Cationic Polyamidoamine Dendrimers on Physicochemical Characteristics of Hydrogels with Erythromycin
Authors: Wróblewska Magdalena , Winnicka Katarzyna
Published: August 2015

Polyamidoamine dendrimers (PAMAM) represent a new class of hyperbranched, monodisperse, three-dimensional polymers with unique properties, which make them very promising carriers of antimicrobial agents. The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of PAMAM-NH2 dendrimers generation two (G2) or three (G3) on physicochemical characteristics and structure of hydrogels with a model antibacterial lipophilic drug—erythromycin—commonly used in topical applications. From the obtained rheograms, it can be concluded that tested hydrogels were non-Newtonian thixotropic systems with shear-thinning behaviour. The dissolution tests revealed that erythromycin was definitely faster released from formulations containing PAMAM-NH2 in concentration and generation dependent manner. However, the addition of PAMAM-NH2 to hydrogels evoked only slight improvement of their antibacterial activity. It was also shown that the structure of hydrogels changed in the presence of PAMAM-NH2 becoming less compact, diversified and more porous. Designed hydrogels with PAMAM-NH2 G2 or G3 were stable stored up to three months at 40 ± 2 °C and 75% ± 5% RH.
Rapid Bioassay-Guided Isolation of Antibacterial Clerodane Type Diterpenoid from Dodonaea viscosa (L.) Jaeq.
Authors: Khurram Muhammad , Lawton Linda , Edwards Christine , Iriti Marcello , Hameed Abdul , Khan Murad , Khan Farman , Rahman Shafiq
Published: August 2015

Plant extracts are complex matrices and, although crude extracts are widely in use, purified compounds are pivotal in drug discovery. This study describes the application of automated preparative-HPLC combined with a rapid off-line bacterial bioassay, using reduction of a tetrazolium salt as an indicator of bacterial metabolism. This approach enabled the identification of fractions from Dodonaea viscosa that were active against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, which, ultimately, resulted in the identification of a clerodane type diterpenoid, 6β-hydroxy-15,16-epoxy-5β, 8β, 9β, 10α-cleroda-3, 13(16), 14-trien-18-oic acid, showing bacteriostatic activity (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) = 64–128 µg/mL) against test bacteria. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on antibacterial activity of this metabolite from D. viscosa.
Association of Parental Environmental Exposures and Supplementation Intake with Risk of Nonsyndromic Orofacial Clefts: A Case-Control Study in Heilongjiang Province, China
Authors: Hao Yanru , Tian Subao , Jiao Xiaohui , Mi Na , Zhang Bing , Song Tao , An Le , Zheng Xudong , Zhuang Deshu
Published: August 2015

The aim of present study was to check the possible association of potential parental environmental exposures and maternal supplementation intake with the risk of nonsyndromic orofacial clefting (NSOC). A retrospective study comprised 499 cases and 480 controls was conducted in Heilongjiang Province. Chi-square analysis and unconditional multiple logistic regression were used in the study. The results showed that maternal history of fever and the common cold without fever (ORCL/P = 3.11 and 5.56, 95%CI: 1.67–5.82 and 2.96–10.47, ORCPO = 3.31 and 8.23, 95%CI: 1.58–6.94 and 4.08–16.95), paternal smoking and alcohol consumption (ORCL/P = 2.15 and 5.04, 95%CI: 1.37–3.38 and 3.00–8.46, ORCPO = 1.82 and 4.40, 95%CI: 1.06–3.13 and 2.50–7.74), maternal exposure to organic solvents, heavy metals, or pesticides (ORCL/P = 6.07, 5.67 and 5.97, 95%CI: 1.49–24.76, 1.34–24.09 and 2.10–16.98, ORCPO = 10.65, 7.28 and 3.48, 95%CI: 2.54–44.67, 1.41–37.63 and 1.06–11.46) and multivitamin use during the preconception period (ORCL/P = 0.06, 95%CI: 0.02–0.23, ORCPO = 0.06, 95%CI: 0.01–0.30) were associated with cleft lip or without cleft palate (CL/P) and cleft palate only (CPO). Maternal history of skin disease and negative life events (ORCL/P = 12.07 and 1.67, 95%CI: 1.81–80.05 and 1.95–2.67) were associated with CL/P. Some potential parental hazardous exposures during the periconception period and maternal use of multivitamins during the preconception period were associated with risk of NSOC.
Lie Symmetry Analysis of the Hopf Functional-Differential Equation
Authors: Janocha Daniel , Wacławczyk Marta , Oberlack Martin
Published: August 2015

In this paper, we extend the classical Lie symmetry analysis from partial differential equations to integro-differential equations with functional derivatives. We continue the work of Oberlack and Wacławczyk (2006, Arch. Mech. 58, 597), (2013, J. Math. Phys. 54, 072901), where the extended Lie symmetry analysis is performed in the Fourier space. Here, we introduce a method to perform the extended Lie symmetry analysis in the physical space where we have to deal with the transformation of the integration variable in the appearing integral terms. The method is based on the transformation of the product y(x)dx appearing in the integral terms and applied to the functional formulation of the viscous Burgers equation. The extended Lie symmetry analysis furnishes all known symmetries of the viscous Burgers equation and is able to provide new symmetries associated with the Hopf formulation of the viscous Burgers equation. Hence, it can be employed as an important tool for applications in continuum mechanics.
A Multi-Scale Approach in Hydraulic Characterization of a Metamorphic Aquifer: What Can Be Inferred about the Groundwater Abstraction Possibilities
Authors: Baiocchi Antonella , Dragoni Walter , Lotti Francesca , Piacentini Simone , Piscopo Vincenzo
Published: August 2015

Hard-rock aquifers, which constitute a water supply source in many countries, are highly heterogeneous and defining a realistic model of an aquifer can be extremely complex. The objective of this study was to hydraulically characterize a metamorphic aquifer in a representative area of Italy and to identify the most appropriate approach for tapping of groundwater in this challenging environment. The results of surface fracture surveys, injection tests, pumping tests, and a simplified numerical model were compared. From the surface fracture survey, a model of the rock mass characterized by a well-developed discontinuity network and by a high frequency of discontinuities resulted. The injection tests showed the extreme heterogeneity and the lower hydraulic conductivity of the rock mass in comparison with the results of the pumping tests. The independent estimate of the hydraulic parameter resulting from numerical model highlighted a range of values higher than those resulting from the pumping tests. The study demonstrated that the continuum medium approach can be used in the case of hard-rock aquifers with a dense network of discontinuities. The multi-scale approach is recommended for investigating hydraulic heterogeneity and significantly helps to identify the most promising areas for well locations and their characteristics in relation to the style of fracturing.
Meeting report: discussions and preliminary findings on extracellular RNA measurement methods from laboratories in the NIH Extracellular RNA Communication Consortium
Authors: Laurent Louise C. , Abdel‐Mageed Asim B. , Adelson P. David , Arango Jorge , Balaj Leonora , Breakefield Xandra , Carlson Elizabeth , Carter Bob S. , Majem Blanca , Chen Clark C. , Cocucci Emanuele , Danielson Kirsty , Courtright Amanda , Das Saumya , Elmageed Zakaria Y. Abd , Enderle Daniel , Ezrin Alan , Ferrer Marc , Freedman Jane , Galas David , Gandhi Roopali , Huentelman Matthew J. , Van Keuren‐Jensen Kendall , Kalani Yashar , Kim Yong , Krichevsky Anna M. , Lai Charles , Lal‐Nag Madhu , Laurent Clara D. , Leonardo Trevor , Li Feng , Malenica Ivana , Mondal Debasis , Nejad Parham , Patel Tushar , Raffai Robert L. , Rubio Renee , Skog Johan , Spetzler Robert , Sun Jie , Tanriverdi Kahraman , Vickers Kasey , Wang Liang , Wang Yaoyu , Wei Zhiyun , Weiner Howard L. , Wong David , Yan Irene K. , Yeri Ashish , Gould Stephen
Published: August 2015

Extracellular RNAs (exRNAs) have been identified in all tested biofluids and have been associated with a variety of extracellular vesicles, ribonucleoprotein complexes and lipoprotein complexes. Much of the interest in exRNAs lies in the fact that they may serve as signalling molecules between cells, their potential to serve as biomarkers for prediction and diagnosis of disease and the possibility that exRNAs or the extracellular particles that carry them might be used for therapeutic purposes. Among the most significant bottlenecks to progress in this field is the lack of robust and standardized methods for collection and processing of biofluids, separation of different types of exRNA‐containing particles and isolation and analysis of exRNAs. The Sample and Assay Standards Working Group of the Extracellular RNA Communication Consortium is a group of laboratories funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health to develop such methods. In our first joint endeavour, we held a series of conference calls and in‐person meetings to survey the methods used among our members, placed them in the context of the current literature and used our findings to identify areas in which the identification of robust methodologies would promote rapid advancements in the exRNA field.
Two-phase equilibrium states in individual Cu–Ni nanoparticles: size, depletion and hysteresis effects
Authors: Shirinyan Aram S
Published: August 2015

In isolated bimetallic nanoscale systems the limit amount of matter and surface-induced size effects can change the thermodynamics of first-order phase transformation. In this paper we present theoretical modification of Gibbs free energy concept describing first-order phase transformation of binary alloyed nanoparticles taking into account size effects as well as depletion and hysteresis effects. In such a way the hysteresis in a form of nonsymmetry for forth and back transforming paths takes place; compositional splitting and the loops-like splitted path on the size dependent temperature–composition phase diagram occur. Our calculations for individual Cu–Ni nanoparticle show that one must differentiate the solubility curves and the equilibrium loops (discussed here in term of solidification and melting loops). For the first time we have calculated and present here on the temperature–composition phase diagram the nanomelting loop at the size of 80 nm and the nanosolidification loop at the size of 25 nm for an individual Cu–Ni nanoparticle. So we observe the difference between the size-dependent phase diagram and solubility diagram, between two-phase equilibrium curves and solubility curves; also intersection of nanoliquidus and nanosolidus is available. These findings lead to the necessity to reconsider such basic concepts in materials science as phase diagram and solubility diagram.
Digital Media and Cosmopolitan Critical Literacy
Authors: Bean Thomas W.
Published: August 2015

In this chapter I consider contemporary global conditions pointing to what some scholars term “a global risk society” where digital media and Cosmopolitan Critical Literacy offer a counterpoint to human rights, health, climate, and terrorist threats. By examining current research in global youth communication across nation-state boundaries via the Internet, existing research suggests that tapping into digital media literacy and critical media literacy will be crucial for developing an informed and critical citizenry. At present, studies of transnational youth navigating old and new affiliations across national borders are in their infancy. Nevertheless, the existing research holds promise for developing global world citizens who can realize an ethos of cosmopolitan, critical citizenship through the affordances of digital media.
Economic Impact of Digital Media
Authors: Boggs George L.
Published: August 2015

Digitization by computers, like steam power and internal combustion, is widely recognized as a pervasive, disruptive engine powering new ways of living and affecting all aspects of economic life. Research on its economic impact cannot be entirely disentangled from powerful cultural stories connecting technological, educational, and economic progress. As cracks appear in the narratives of constant progress through technology, science, civilization, and economic prosperity, research on the economic impact of digital media develops nuance. This review of literature examines a wide range of perspectives on the economic impact of digital media as a basis for suggesting areas of further research and implications for education, civic, engagement, and policy.
The Diffusion Absorption Refrigerator Operation and Performance
Authors: De Pascalis Lorenzo , Starace Giuseppe , Carluccio Federica
Published: August 2015

This chapter focuses on the Diffusion Absorption Refrigerator (DAR) cycle and describes a new advanced thermodynamic model which allows good predictions of the chiller performance in terms of efficiency and cooling capacity, starting from a precise evaluation of the thermo-physical properties of the working mixture at each point of the circuit. A steady state thermodynamic analytical model of the thermal pump driving the DAR is also included. In addition, the experimental validation of the model, performed on a prototype built coupling a domestic 750 W-magnetron with a small purposely modified commercial DAR to activate the thermal pump, is here included: a maximum mismatch of 2.32% in the weak mixture mass flow rate and lower than 5% in COP between the predicted and measured data were found.
Current and Future Trends of Refrigerants Development
Authors: Duarte M. V. , Pires L. C. , Silva P. D. , Gaspar P. D.
Published: August 2015

In this chapter is addressed the thematic of refrigerants: its historical evolution; properties; legislation applied in the area and future trends. The first refrigerant being marketed on a large scale was ethyl ether (R610), in 1834. Since then, the evolution of the utilized refrigerants was stimulated, initially due to constructive issues in the refrigeration system and later to environmental issues. This evolution may be divided into four generations: 1st use of any fluid that worked; 2nd safety and durability of the equipment; 3rd ozone layer protection and 4th increase of global warming concerns. During the process of evolution many refrigerants were tested to understanding of their properties. Currently, environmental concerns are taken as guide in the search for new refrigerants. The most promising refrigerants to be used in future are the HFEs, HFOs and HFCs with low-GWP, natural refrigerants and blends between (HCs/HFCs and HFCs/HFOs) refrigerants.
Transcritical Carbon Dioxide Refrigeration as an Alternative to Subcritical Plants
Authors: Greco Adriana , Aprea Ciro , Maiorino Angelo
Published: August 2015

Carbon dioxide (R744) is as a valid alternative to classical substances such as HFCs used in vapour compression plants. A transcritical refrigeration cycle is needed because the critical temperature of carbon dioxide is usually lower than the ambient temperature. In this chapter the performances of a transcritical cycle have been evaluated with a prototype R744 system working as a classical spit-systems to cool air. An experimental analysis has been carried out on the effect of: refrigerant charge, internal heat exchanger, heat rejection pressure on the energetic performances of the transcritical plant. An experimental analysis of a hybrid trans-critical refrigerator-desiccant wheel system has been carried out in order to improve the COP. The experimental transcritical cycle has been examined in comparison with a classical vapour compression plant working with the R134a.
Guiding Principles for Hygienic Design of Evaporators to Mitigate Contamination-Related Risks in Air Blast Freezing Systems
Authors: Moerman Frank Theo , Fikiin Kostadin
Published: August 2015

Evaporator coils, fins and drain pans in blast freezers may act as a source of microbial, physical and chemical contamination (representing Critical Control Points within a HACCP study). For instance, the evaporator might contaminate unpacked food products passing through the freezer with undesirable ingredients remaining from a previous product being frozen. Drain pans below the refrigerating coils and fans also require paramount attention, due diligence and professional care to ensure that both frozen foods and freezer interior are kept at the highest possible hygienic level. This book chapter is, therefore, focussing on knowledge-based hygienic design of evaporators in air blast freezing systems (e.g., proper production and mounting of refrigerating coils, drain pans and fans, along with suitable materials of construction to reduce frosting, microbial fouling and corrosion) with the ultimate aim of acquiring a safe environment and extended shelf life of unwrapped products. An overview of the existing types of air blast freezers is presented for that purpose. Furthermore, the today's state of the art is introduced to food chain operators who are not enough familiar with hygienic design. Typical contamination problems and measures for contamination control are discussed as well.
Electronic Word of Mouth
Authors: Tabbane Rym Srarfi , Debabi Mohsen
Published: August 2015

Because of its great impact on the consumer's behavior, electronic Word Of Mouth (eWOM) has become an important concept for the researchers and during the last decade, a great deal of attention was paid to the concept of eWOM. However, despite the growing number of studies on the subject, related literature remains fragmented, possibly affecting the long term development of the eWOM research. Fragmentation of this research can be traced back to a lack of conceptualization of the term eWOM. Therefore, this chapter proposes to highlight the great impact of eWOM on consumer's behavior and to shed light on this concept. Then, this chapter will first introduce the context in which eWOM takes place, define the concept and distinguish it from other close concepts like traditional word of mouth, buzz marketing and viral marketing. At the end, the last section will focus on the importance given by consumers to eWOM.
Word of Mouth on Social Media
Authors: Mathur Disha , Mathur Dipin
Published: August 2015

In the present era of technology enabled markets, social media marketing is gaining increasing importance through the process of gaining website traffic or attention with the use of social media websites. To most of the entrepreneurs, social media marketing is the “next big thing”. It is a powerful tool that must be taken advantage of. In a very short span of time, social media marketing has become one of the most loved media for the youths today. Social Media Marketing (SMM) is the hottest new marketing concept and every business owner wants to know the way in which social media can generate value for their business. Businesses today are using SMM for grabbing attention, stimulating interest, creating desire and promoting action. It has become a panacea for communication, visibility, promotion, brand building and everything. This chapter attempts to highlight the significance of e-WOM on social media as a tool for brand building and creating value to business. It also discusses its role, benefits and challenges.
Electronic Word-of-Mouth Communication in Online Social Networks
Authors: Çadırcı Tuğçe Ozansoy , Güngör Ayşegül Sağkaya
Published: August 2015

Online social networks (oSNS) enable users to construct strong relationships with friends, family, as well as strangers. They also enable users to share information concerning experiences and opinions about products, brands and companies via electronic word of mouth (eWOM). The unique nature of oSNS-eWOM relationship forms the basis of this research. The authors report the results of a research investigating six motivational factors for engaging in eWOM communication, investigated under three dimensions; producing, consuming and forwarding of content on oSNSs. Results reveal that eWOM production behavior on oSNS is mainly motivated by altruism, self enhancement, electronic social interaction and exhibitionism. The motivating factors of eWOM forwarding behavior showed up as electronic social interaction and exhibitionism, whereas the motivating factors for eWOM consumption behavior are altruism, electronic social interaction and need for intellectual engagement. Aversion of cognitive activities appeared to have a negative effect on consumption of eWOM communication.
Quality Control and Telemedicine for BRAF V600E Mutations in Papillary Thyroid Carcinomas
Authors: Margari Niki , Pouliakis Abraham , Spathis Aris , Mastorakis Emmanouil , Karakostas Efthymios , Stergiopoulos Spiridon , Panayiotides Ioannis , Karakitsos Petros
Published: August 2015

The assessment of BRAF V600E mutations is important for prognosis and treatment of Papillary Thyroid Carcinomas (PTC), the standard methods for their identification are molecular biology techniques. In this study, the potential of image morphometry applied to cell nuclei and sequentially the use of a Classification And Regression Tree (CART) is investigated, in order to: identify morphometric features useful to characterize BRAF mutations, and to eventually produce an algorithm identifying BRAF mutation status. The 140 studied cases had histological confirmation and known BRAF mutation status identified via real-time PCR. The analysis revealed that nuclear features contributing to BRAF mutation status identification via the CART model are related mostly to nuclear color. According to the results there is evidence that BRAF V600E mutations can be identified by measurable image features. Therefore, the proposed method is useful for quality control of BRAF V600E mutations on cytological slides, can serve as alternative to PCR method and may be used for remote assessment.
Review of Key Stakeholders for an mHealth Pilot Study in Malawi Motivations and Expectations
Authors: O'Connor Yvonne , Heavin Ciara , O'Donoghue John
Published: August 2015

The trial and evaluation of mobile health (mHealth) applications in society is necessary to explore the potential use and benefits of the solution post-trial. In recent years, there is a proliferation of mHealth projects developed and tested in the continent of Africa. The complexity of these projects means that there are typically many stakeholders who are integral to the success of the project. Yet, extant research falls short of capturing the motivations and expectations of multiple key stakeholders (i.e. direct and indirect users) in a single study towards participating in mHealth pilots. To address this gap in research a conceptual model is proposed and examined to explore the impact of motivations and expectations on both community health workers' (direct users) and caregivers' (indirect users) decision to participate in mHealth pilot studies. Findings reveal that both motivations and expectations positively impact decision making, i.e. their decision to participate in the study, with no significant differences emerging between these two groups of stakeholders.
Development of an Efficient Procedure for Sustainable Low Carbon Cement Manufacturing Process
Authors: Chopperla Siva Teja , Jupalli Rajeswari , Kanraj Deepak , Bahurudeen A. , Haneefa M.K. , Santhanam M.
Published: August 2015

The consumption of Portland cement for the production of concrete is rapidly increasing because of the remarkable growth in the construction worldwide. Cement production is an energy intensive process. The energy consumption by the cement industry is estimated to be about 5% of the total global industrial energy consumption. Manufacturing process of cement consumes enormous quantities of raw materials from limited natural resources at a high rate and leads to their depletion. Due to the dominant use of carbon intensive fuels such as coal, the cement industry is a major emitter of carbon dioxide and other air pollutants. The cement industry contributes about 6 % of global carbon dioxide emissions which is the primary source of global warming. In addition to carbon dioxide emissions, significant amount of nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and volatile organic compounds are emitted during cement manufacturing and causes severe environmental issues. In this regard, effective control techniques for reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from modern cement industry and an efficient procedure to achieve sustainable cement manufacturing process are discussed in this paper.
Numerical Heat Transfer and Pressure Drop Studies of Turbulent Al2O3 - Ethylene Glycol/Water Nanofluid Flow in an Automotive Radiator Tube
Authors: Mohanrajhu N. , Purushothaman K. , Kulasekharan N.
Published: August 2015

Automotive radiators use flattened tubes within which Ethylene Glycol (EG) and Water (W) based nanofluids flow to enhance the heat transfer. Computations were carried out to understand the flow and thermal characteristics of the Aluminium oxide based nanofluids, with EG:W ratio of 60:40 as the base fluid, flowing inside a flattened tube. The flow was maintained in the turbulent regime with the Reynolds number (Re) ranging from 5,000 to 14,000.Investigations were carried out for nano particle concentrations (φ) varying from 1% to 5% of the base fluid by volume. Computations were also carried out for a circular tube to study the influence of tube shape. The nanofluid with φ = 5% increased the Nusselt number values by 40% for the flattened tubes compared to the base fluid at Re =14,000. These estimates are done at constant flow Reynolds number in-line with literature, which necessitated increased inlet velocity, which meant increased pumping power. Pumping power increased with increase in φ and Re. For a constant pumping power per unit length (Pp) of 5W/m the values of average heat transfer coefficient () decreases with increase in φ. The values of for the 2% and 5% nano fluid were lower than the base fluid by 6% and 23.8% respectively. Nanofluid with φ = 1% alone showed a 1.2% higher value than the base fluid indicating the need of further exploration of φ in a closer range.
Proliferation of Population and Pollutants-Pathway for a Grave Future: Comparison of Past and Present Indian Scenario – A Review
Authors: Shevarjun S. , Radika Ponnuraj , Senthil Rajaram
Published: August 2015

The environment we live in is very fragile and has a delicate balance. In the current era, the human kind is consuming the natural resources at a higher rate than it can produce it and is generating wastes at a higher rate than the environment can remove it. Because of anthropocentric ideology, human race believes in development through destruction. The urge for luxury and sophistication has given an impetus to industrial revolution and technological development. This has lead to exponential consumption of resources of the world. To worsen this scenario, the world has undergone huge population explosion in the 19th century. This has increased pressure on all available resources. Hence, in order to meet the current demands, people started using unsustainable technologies leading to huge pollution in all sectors. In this paper, the adverse effect of population growth in India on various factors like water pollution, emissions of CO2 and green house gases are discussed. The data for analysis are based on the statistics of United Nations Population Division, The WorldBank data bank and Central Pollution Control Board of India.
Evaluation of Common Herbs for Treating Soak Liquor of Tannery
Authors: Lakshmi K. , Yamuna K. , Gayathri V.S.
Published: August 2015

Wastewater is a very turbid liquid with an offensive smell in most cases. Its composition varies from large floating or suspended solids to smaller suspended solids, very small solids in colloidal form and chemical impurities as dissolved substances. This makes the treatment complicated and hence it is essential to adopt more than one type of treatment method. It is a common practice to carry out cost effective pre treatment to make the actual treatment less tedious and more effective. Chemical impurities such as sulphides, sulphates, chloride, oil and greases are usually found at the second stage of tannery effluent. The pH of tannery effluent ranges from 5.5 to 10. This work explores common herbs as a viable pre treatment option for non – chromium tannery effluent.
Thermal Performance of Solar Parabolic Dish Concentrator with Hetero-Conical Cavity Receiver
Authors: Thirunavukkarasu V. , Cheralathan M.
Published: August 2015

Concentrated solar collectors have high efficiency as compared to flat plate and evacuated tube solar collectors. Cavity receivers are mainly used on the parabolic dish concentrators and tower type concentrator systems. The heat transfer surfaces of cavity receiver are composed by coiled metal tube. Heat transfer fluid flows in the internal spaces of coiled metal tube, and the external surfaces would absorb the highly concentrated solar energy. This paper explains the thermal performance of parabolic dish concentrator system with hetero-conical cavity receiver. The experimental analysis was done during the month of April 2014 on clear sunny days at Chennai [Latitude: 13.08oN, Longitude: 80.27oE] to study its thermal performance.
Numerical Investigation of a Chevron Type Brazed Plate Heat Exchanger
Authors: Manigandan N. , Suresh M.
Published: August 2015

A numerical investigation has been carried out in the present work to study flow characteristics and thermal performance of a chevron type brazed plate heat exchanger (PHE). A local element-by-element analysis utilizing e-NTU method is employed for simulating the heat exchanger. In this approach, Nusselt number is expressed in terms of friction factor which in turn, is given as a function of chevron angle of the heat exchanger. Water has been used as cold and hot fluid. Effect of fluid flow rate and inlet temperatures on the heat duty, overall heat transfer coefficient, fluid outlet temperatures and pressure drop have been studied. When compared with literature results of intermating plate heat exchangers, chevron type plate heat exchanger gives greater heat transfer enhancement, though with increased pressure drop.
Modeling and Simulation of Industrial Coal Fired Boiler
Authors: Vijayalakshmi S. , Manamalli D. , Ramesh Babu S.
Published: August 2015

This paper presents the dynamic modeling of 210MW Industrial Coal Fired Boiler which is used commonly in thermal power plants. The goal of developing the first principle model is to capture the key dynamical properties of the boiler over a wide operating range. The model describes the complicated dynamics of the various components of Industrial coal fired boiler such as furnace, boiler drum, primary superheater attemperator and secondary superheater. The model is developed based on the physical principles, and is characterized by a few physical parameters. The parameters are determined from the construction data, and a few of them from the field test data. A strong effort has been made to strike a balance between fidelity and simplicity. From the modeling point of view, the boiler is divided into five subsystems and for each subsystem, the first principle models are developed using the mass and energy balance equations. The subsystem models are then integrated to obtain the integrated boiler model. Simulation studies are carried out based on the nominal values of the system variables and the parameters collected from a power plant. The integrated boiler model obtained is tested for its dynamic and steady state characteristics and the results of which are described. The model is validated against the unique plant data and the results are presented. The model describes the behaviour of the system over a wide operating range. A good agreement is found between the simulation and actual parameters of the boiler.
Performance of Latent Heat Solar Thermal Energy Storage System Using Various Heat Transfer Fluids
Authors: Gajendiran M. , Sivaram P.M. , Nallusamy N.
Published: August 2015

In the present work the thermal performance of Phase Change Material (PCM) based solar thermal energy storage system under the influence of different heat transfer fluids (HTF) have been investigated. Water, Ethylene Glycol–water and Copper nanofluid are selected as HTF. Paraffin is used as PCM and encapsulated in cylindrical capsules. The thermal energy storage (TES) tank acts as a storage unit consisting PCM capsules packed in three beds surrounded by water, which acts as sensible heat storage (SHS) material. HTF circulated by a pump transfers heat from solar flat plate collector (FPC) to the TES tank. 25% ethylene glycol -75% water HTF is prepared by mixing ethylene glycol (EG) with water. Copper-distilled water nanofluids (0.3% by weight) are prepared using prolonged sonication with sodium dodecyl benzene sulphonate (SDBS) as the surfactant. Various performance parameters such as charging time, instantaneous heat stored, cumulative heat stored and system efficiency are studied for various HTFs. It is found that the charging time is reduced by 33.3% for copper nanofluid and 22.2% for ethylene glycol- water mixture HTFs. It is also observed that there is an increase in system efficiency and cumulative heat stored with reference to charging time for these HTFs when compared with conventional HTF 1 i.e. water.
Finite Element Studies on Lattice Conical Shell Structures Using LS-Dyna®
Authors: Vigneshwara Mahaprabhu L , Vasanthanathan A. , Nagaraj P.
Published: August 2015

The objective of the present paper is to carry out the numerical studies on the buckling characteristics of unstiffened and anisogrid aluminium conical structures under axial static loading conditions. This study emphasizes the importance of lattice structures in space application wherein the minimization of weight of the principal part is given greater importance. Lattice structures are preferred in space applications due to their extremely low weight and high structural performance. Both unstiffened and anisogrid aluminium conical shell structures were modelled using Solidworks®. The finite element computations were done using LS-Dyna® under static loading conditions. The results of unstiffened and anisogrid shell structures are compared. Based on these studies, it has been asserted that there exists more energy absorption in case of anisogrid conical shell structures than the unstiffened counterpart. The results also reveal about 70% weight reduction in anisogrid conical shell structures.
CFD Analysis of a Solar Parabolic Dish
Authors: Uma Maheswari C. , Meenakshi Reddy R.
Published: August 2015

Concentrated solar thermal (CST) power has been used for years to help supply power to certain energy markets and has proven to be fairly successful. Unfortunately the high prices of these solar technologies have prohibited them from really making a large impact on the world's energy scene. This study analyses the structural, thermal, and CFD performance of a parabolic dish concept which could be the basis for large scale commercial concentrated solar thermal electricity. Simulation of the structural, thermal and CFDanalysis of the dish with varying metallic properties (Aluminium, Copper and StainlessSteel) under different windconditionswas compared. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) was done to simulate the thermal performance of the dish at two different wind velocities.
Particle Swarm Optimization for Integrated Fixture Layout
Authors: Elilraja D. , Vijayan Sundaravel
Published: August 2015

Fixture is a work-holding or supporting device used in the manufacturing industry to hold the workpiece. Fixtures are used to securely locate (position in a specific location or orientation) and support the work, ensuring that all parts produced using the fixture will maintain conformity and interchangeability. The location of fixture elements is called as fixture layout. The fixture layout plays major role in the work piece deformation during the machining operation. Hence optimization of fixture layout to minimize the work piece deformation is one of the critical aspects in the fixture design process. Minimization the workpiece deformation which is the objective function in the present work is calculated using Finite Element Method (FEM) and the fixture layout is optimized using Discrete fixture layout optimization method (DFLOM), Continuous fixture layout optimization method (CFLOM) and Integrated fixture layout optimization method (IFLOM).The workpiece deformation is minimum in Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) based IFLOM is reported for the selected fixture. In this paper the PSO is used as an optimization tool to optimize the workpiece deformation.