bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flight Tests Performed by EMBRAER with SHM Systems
Authors: Pinheiro Rulli Ricardo , Dotta Fernando , da Silva Paulo Anchieta
Published: June 2013

This paper presents an overview of a set of tests performed by Embraer with two different SHM technologies in an E-Jets flight tests aircraft. Considered as promising technologies for monitoring structural parts, sensors networks including cables and connectors of CVM (Comparative Vacuum Monitoring) and LW (Lamb Waves) were installed in an Embraer-190 aircraft. The two technologies have been investigated by Embraer within the companys effort on Structural Health Monitoring. Scheduled maintenance and inspection activities can take advantage of the SHM technologies by evaluating the structural integrity of an aircraft with on-board sensors and performing less time-consuming procedures compared to current NDT technologies which can not only reduce the amount of time and burden of those activities, but also minimize the effects of human-factors when compared to current inspection tasks. The tests performed with CVM and LW components (sensors, connectors and cables) installed in a flight tests aircraft focus on the investigation of the technologies capabilities of withstanding the real aircraft operational conditions. Periodic monitoring of these on-board sensors has been performed using CVM and LW ground equipments. A further phase of this project is currently under development and focus on the demonstration of an on-board in-flight version of the CVM instrumentation system for continuous monitoring of aircraft structures during flight, aiming to demonstrate the ability of the CVM on-board equipment to withstand the aircraft in-flight environmental and operational conditions. Preliminary results on both partially and totally on-board equipments indicate that they can withstand the environmental and operational conditions; however, further tests need to be performed. Performing periodic inspections on ground with SHM systems lead to different qualification requirements when compared to those required for a complete on-board system that performs continuous monitoring. An overview of those two aspects of qualification requirements will also be presented.
Scattering Matrix Approach to Informing Damage Monitoring and Prognosis in Composite Bolted Connections
Authors: Haynes Colin , Nadabe Takeaki , Takeda Nobuo , Todd Michael D.
Published: June 2013

Structural health monitoring refers to the process of making an assessment, based on nondestructive, in-situ, autonomous measurements, about the ability of a structure to perform its intended function. This paper presents work done on a bolted connection in carbon-fiber reinforced polymer composite materials. A composite specimen is bolted in a double lap joint configuration to a test apparatus that applies an increasing tensile load. Ultimately, the load results in bearing failure of the material around the bolt hole. To monitor the progression of damage, macro fiber composite sensors are bonded in a circular array around the bolt hole. These sensors are then used to generate ultrasonic guided waves, a popular technique in nondestructive evaluation because of the favorable combination of propagation distance and sensitivity to damage. As the specimen is subjected to increasing load levels, measurements are taken repeatedly and compared with one another. Because damage will change the local mechanical properties of the material, the ultrasonic waves passing through the damaged region will be scattered differently in each direction, resulting in a different waveform arriving at the other surrounding sensors. By applying appropriate signal processing techniques, these changes may be interpreted as indicating the extent of damage that has occurred in the specimen. Preliminary analysis is presented demonstrating the correlation between changes in received strain signals and increasing damage levels.
Investigation of the Effectiveness of Different Thermographic Testing Modalities in Damage Detection
Authors: Pieczonka Łukasz , Szwedo Mariusz , Uhl Tadeusz
Published: June 2013

The paper deals with practical aspects of Thermographic Nondestructive Testing (TNDT). A comparative study of burst vibrothermography (VT) and pulsed thermography (PT) measurements is presented and discussed. The authors have developed a diagnostic system for thermographic testing of structures that was used to perform experiments. Supported test modalities include burst vibrothermography and pulsed thermography, among other techniques. The system comprises both hardware and software components facilitating TNDT inspections. Experimental testing has been performed, on a composite plate, using the developed diagnostic system and two of the supported test modalities. The goal of these investigations was to compare the performance of both TNDT methods in revealing Barely Visible Impact Damage (BVID) in a composite plate.
Designing for Lamb Wave Based In Situ Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Ong W.H. , Chiu Wing Kong
Published: June 2013

The incorporation of in situ structural health monitoring is currently an after-thought used to address critical areas identified in testing or service. This paper reports on a series of analytical/experimental work seeking to demonstrate the implementation of in situ structural health monitoring (iSHM) at the design stage of critical structures. This work is intended for the design of future generation aircraft. The work presented describes a systematic redesign scheme based on Lamb wave technology. The results demonstrate a strong possibility that such a system is effective and feasible and comes at a tolerable cost to the structure. To demonstrate the efficacy of this proposed design scheme, a series of experimental results will be presented using the fatigue critical location of structure representing the lower wing skin of an aircraft structure as a test case.
Structural Seismic Damage Detection Using Fractal Dimension of Time-Frequency Feature
Authors: Tao Dong Wang , Zhang Dong Yu , Li Hui
Published: June 2013

In this paper, a data-driven approach to localizing structural damage subjected to ground motion is proposed by using the fractal dimension of the time-frequency features of structural dynamic responses. The time-frequency feature is defined as the real part of wavelet coefficient and the fractal dimension adopts the box-counting method. It is shown that the proposed fractal dimensions at each story of linear system are identical, while the fractal dimension at the stories with nonlinearity is different from those at the stories with linearity. Therefore, the nonlinear behavior of structural damage caused by strong ground motions can be detected and localized through comparing the fractal dimensions of structural responses at different stories. Shaking table test on a uniform 16-story 3-bay steel frame with added friction dampers modelling interstory nonlinear behavior was conducted. The experiment results validate the effectiveness of the proposed method to localize single and multi seismic damage of structures.
Properties of Polyurethanes Based on Tall Oil Fatty Acids Ester with Different Types of Flame Retardants
Authors: Yakushin Vladimir , Stirna Uldis , Sevastyanova Irina , Vilsone Dzintra , Zeltins Viesturs , Kirpluks Mikelis
Published: June 2013

To decrease the combustibility of polyurethanes based on tall oil fatty acids ester, additives of five different halogen- and phosphorus-containing flame retardants were used. The efficiency of the flame retardants was evaluated from the change in the thermal, mechanical and combustibility characteristics of the obtained polyurethanes. It has been found that the phosphorus-containing flame retardant Levagard 4090 N decreases the combustibility of polyurethane to the greatest extent.
Hyperbranched Fluorescent Polyphenylenes: Synthesis and Spectral Analysis
Authors: Khotina Irina A. , Babushkina Marina A. , Kushakova Natalia S. , Loushnikova Ekaterina U. , Vasiliev Yuri V. , Kovalev Alexey I. , Mröz Wojciech , Giovanella Umberto
Published: June 2013

Hyperbranched polyphenylenes containing triphenylamine groups were synthesized through Ni0-catalysed polycondensation of aromatic tribromides. The values of the photoluminescence quantum yields depend on nitrogen content in the obtained polymers. It is shown that polyphenylenes due to high levels of thermal stability and conductivity could be good template for OLEDs with light-emitting organic metal complexes in the active layer.
Influence of Сellulose Stearate (CS) Content on Thermal and Rheological Properties of Poly(lactic acid)/CS Composites
Authors: Šumigin Dmitri , Tarasova Elvira , Krumme Andres , Viikna Anti
Published: June 2013

Recently, a deliberate interest to look for composites that are eco-friendly and biodegradable appears. Therefore materials based on raw materials derived from natural resources of plant are being studied. One of the most promising bio-based polymers that have attracted the interest of many researchers is poly(lactic acid), which is made from plants and is readily biodegradable. Cellulose is one of the strongest and stiffest fibres available and it has a high potential to act as reinforcing agent in biopolymers. In our work we esterified cellulose using stearoyl chloride in ionic liquid and studied the effect of cellulose stearate addition to matrix polymers on thermal and rheological properties.
Grain Size Distribution on Annealed Silicon Steel
Authors: Bacaltchuk Cristiane Maria Basto , Castello-Branco Gilberto Alexandre , Raptopoulos Luciano Santos Constantin
Published: June 2013

Silicon steel is a soft magnetic material very important to the highly industrialized society we live today. Application of magnetic field during annealing treatment has shown to affect positively the microstructure evolution of ferrous alloys leading to a more cost-effective final product. In order to evaluate the effect of magnetic field on the microstructure of GNO silicon steel, cold rolled samples were annealed at 800°C for 3, 15 and 30 minutes inside a 17 T magnetic field. According to the ESEM/EBSD results, the grains seemed to be the most influenced by magnetic field. Magnetic field seems not to affect nucleation of Goss grains but instead it seems to affect its boundary mobility.
A Methodology for Evaluation of Life Fraction Using Cr-Mo Steel under Creep Conditions
Authors: da Silva Marcelo A. , Teixeira José Claudio G. , Guimarães Ari Sauer , Bott Ivani S. , Costa Hector R.M.
Published: June 2013

The quantification methodology used to predict the residual life of Cr-Mo steel was microstructure/life fraction correlation under creep conditions. Microstructural evolution has been correlated with accelerated creep testing progress during testing at constant load and a temperature of 600°C, as well as with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. Experimental results from TEM revealed six distinct stages, which were directly related to the life fraction values obtained. However, in the case of MEV, five stages were found. This difference is likely due to the better analysis possible via TEM of both microstructural evolution and types of carbides formed during the creep process. In addition, an evolution map is proposed to allow for easy interpretation of the relationship between microstructural characteristics and life fraction.
Posterior tracheal wall leading to life-threatening obstruction of tracheostomy tube
Authors: Singhal Sanjay , Kiran S , Das Avinash
Published: June 2013

This is a case report of a 28-year-old male patient with severe traumatic brain injury and Glasgow coma scale score = 8: E2 M5 V T , who required a tracheotomy for airway protection. On day 5, a surgical tracheotomy was performed with size 8 tracheotomy tube (TT). On the 4 th day of post-tracheostomy, he developed a sudden onset respiratory distress while on T-piece. Immediate fiber optic bronchoscopy revealed almost a complete closure of TT due to posterior tracheal wall indrawing into the TT with every inspiratory effort.
COMPASS – COMparative Particle formation in the Atmosphere using Simulation chamber Study techniques
Authors: Bonn B. , Sun S. , Haunold W. , Sitals R. , van Beesel E. , dos Santos L. , Nillius B. , Jacobi S.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. The anthropogenic influence on climate and environment has increased strongly since industrialization about 150 yr ago. The consequences for the atmosphere became more and more apparent and nowadays affect our life quality on Earth progressively. Because of that it is very important to understand the atmospheric processes, on which these effects are based on, in detail. In this study we report the set-up of a novel twin chamber technique that uses the comparative method and establishes an appropriate connection of atmospheric and laboratory methods to broaden the tools for investigations. It is designed to study the impact of certain parameters and gases on ambient processes such as particle formation online and can be applied in a large variety of conditions. The characterisation of both chambers proved that both chambers operate identically with a residence time (xT (COMPASS 1) = 26.5 ± 0.3 min and xT (COMPASS 2) = 26.6 ± 0.4 min) at a typical flow rate of 15 L min−1 and a deposition rate (1.6 ± 0.8) × 10−5 s−1. Comparison measurement showed no significant differences. Therefore operation under atmospheric conditions is trustworthy. To indicate the applicability and the benefit of the system a set of experiments was conducted at different conditions, i.e. urban and remote, enhancing ozone and terpenes as well as reducing sunlight. In the ozone enhanced ambient particle number and volume increased substantially at urban and remote conditions in a different strength. Solar radiation displayed a clear positive effect on particle number as well as terpene addition did at remote conditions. Therefore the system is a useful tool to investigate local precursors, the details of ambient particle formation at surface locations as well as future feedback processes.
Hédi Bouraoui ou le discours identitaire transfrontalier
Authors: Slimani Noureddine
Published: June 2013

L’écriture d’Hédi Bouraoui est le lieu d’exercice d’une praxis littéraire qui se
définit en termes d’écart et d’écartèlement : écart de langage, novateur et décalé ;
écartèlement entre une diversité d’espaces et de cultures. La dynamique transculturelle qui
fonde l’écriture bouraouienne s’articule dans une logique d’additionnement des cultures. Le
questionnement porte sur l’identité, ou plutôt les identités, que charrie chaque personne en
situation de nomadisme. L’écriture devient le lieu d’expression d’une attitude
critico-créatrice dont la visée ultime est de se repositionner dans l’échiquier des
catégorisations institutionnelles. L’appellation d’« écrivain migrant » devient par
conséquent contestable. La vision identitaire qui en résulte est celle d’une appartenance
multiple, ouverte, transfrontalière.
Thermally Switched Release from Nanoparticle Colloidosomes
Authors: Zhou Shaobing , Fan Jing , Datta Sujit S. , Guo Ming , Guo Xing , Weitz David A.
Published: June 2013

Nanoparticle colloidosomes, whose release can be switched on and off in response to a temperature change, are fabricated. Unlike in other systems, the switchable release does not require the colloidosome shell to deform; it instead occurs due to the adsorption or desorption of a block copolymer, dissolved in the core, at the inner surface of the colloidosome shell, concomitantly blocking or unblocking the pores in the shell. The colloidosomes are prepared using double emulsion templates produced by microfluidics, and are thus highly monodisperse; moreover, they are mechanically stable and consist of biocompatible components, making them suitable for the encapsulation, delivery, and release of a broad range of active materials.
Granulation rate processes in the kneading elements of a twin screw granulator
Authors: El Hagrasy A. S. , Litster J. D.
Published: June 2013

To characterize the granulation rate processes in the kneading section of the twin screw granulator, separate experiments were conducted using exclusively conveying elements as the baseline in addition to different configurations of kneading elements. The configuration parameters examined were the length of the kneading section, the advance angle, and the angle direction. Granule size, shape and liquid distribution were measured. Two main rate processes were observed (1) breakage and layering, and (2) Shear elongation and layering. Breakage was dominant in the 90° configuration while shear elongation dominated in the 30° reverse configurations, with other configurations giving some combination of the two rate processes. The distinct three‐dimensional (3‐D) shape characteristics of granules obtained from each configuration were crucial in elucidating the dominant granulation rate process in each case. The proposed granulation mechanisms explain the events leading to particular granule attributes, but more importantly provide insight into future optimization of twin screw granulation process. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 4100–4115, 2013
Thermal and mechanical properties of PES/PTFE composites and nanocomposites
Authors: Righetti Maria Cristina , Boggioni Alessia , Laus Michele , Antonioli Diego , Sparnacci Katia , Boarino Luca
Published: June 2013

Polyethersulphone/polytetrafluoroethylene (PES/PTFE) nanocomposites and composites were prepared by precipitation of PES into a PTFE latex‐containing nanoparticles. Different samples were obtained by varying the relative ratio between PES and PTFE. The complex crystallization process, discussed within the fractionated crystallization frame, allowed to identify and quantify different dispersion degree of the PTFE nanoparticles within the PES matrix. The different samples were thus divided into nanocomposite and composites. The effect of crystalline PTFE domains on the mobility of PES was investigated and discussed. The dynamic‐mechanical behavior was explained in terms of the particle aggregation state. The mechanical properties of the PES/PTFE composites were found to depend on both the dispersion and the concentration of the PTFE nanoparticles. In the glassy state the stiffness of the materials was found to increase with the dispersion degree, resulting higher for the nanocomposite with respect to composites. On the contrary, in the rubbery state the modulus was found proportional to the PTFE nanoparticles concentration, resulting higher in the composites with respect to the nanocomposite. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 3624–3633, 2013
Effects of dihydrogen phosphate intercalated layered double hydroxides on the crystal behaviors and flammability of polypropylene
Authors: Liu Xishan , Gu Xiaoyu , Zhang Sheng , Jiang Yu , Sun Jun , Dong Mingzhe
Published: June 2013

Mg‐Al‐H2PO4– layered double hydroxides (LDHs) was prepared by anion exchange method, and polypropylene (PP)‐LDH composites were prepared by melt compounding. The dispersion of LDH in PP matrix was characterized by Transmission electron microscope and X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and the results showed that both exfoliation structures and aggregation structures can be found in the composites. The effects of LDH on the crystal behaviors of PP was investigated by XRD and Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and it indicated that LDH can induce the formation of β crystal and serve as a heterogeneous nucleating agent in PP. The significant decrease of both the crystallization and the melting enthalpy (ΔHc and ΔHm) was observed in PP composite at the presence of LDH platelets. Both the peak heat release rate and total heat release (THR) were significantly decreased after the addition of treated LDH. The possible chemical structural change in the condensed phase of PP composite during heating was studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR). The mechanism of modified LDH in improving the fire performance of PP and the possible relationship between flame retardancy and crystal behavior have been proposed and discussed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 3645–3651, 2013
Evaluation of water uptake and mechanical properties of biomedical polymers
Authors: Vidović Elvira , Klee Doris , Höcker Hartwig
Published: June 2013

Poly(vinyl alcohol) grafted with poly(d,l‐lactide) or poly(d,l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) oligomers, were synthesized in our laboratory and investigated with respect to their potential for tissue engineering applications. In order to understand their structure–properties relationships the effect of length and composition as well as number of polyester grafts on PVA backbone chain on water uptake capability and hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity balance and on mechanical properties of hydrogels was evaluated. The E moduli of hydrogels display values between 0.01 and 100 MPa. The results indicate the route for the development of polymers with a very broad range of properties similar to those of natural cartilage tissue. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 3682–3688, 2013
A Class of Cross‐Layer Optimization Design for Congestion and Energy Efficiency with Compressed Sensing in Wireless Sensing Networks
Authors: Li Mingwei , Jing Yuanwei , Li Chengtie
Published: June 2013

In wireless sensor networks (WSNs), the congestion problem not only causes packet loss, but also leads to an increase in delays and energy consumption. The actual performance of wireless sensor networks (WSNs) can be severely influenced by the quality of the communication channel and the bit in transmission. In this paper, the distributed protocols, which attain global optimum control for signals by the compressed sensing technique and achieve fair channel allocation by the scheduling algorithm, are proposed for WSNs. We take into account the congestion problem by robust optimization with congestion ratio for two classic aspects in energy limited WSNs: minimum transmission rate and maximum transmitted information. To achieve the goal, three protocols are developed. In the first protocol, the desired control input is designed based on the compressed sensing technique. A minimal bit of signal is provided to reduce the transmission flow for the congestion model. The second protocol is resource allocation. The resources can be allocated increasingly to the channel in order to avoid more severe congestion. This can also avoid conservative reduction of resource allocation for eliminating congestion. Channel selection abides by the fair resource allocation principle. The above protocols separately are implemented through a congestion ratio at network layer, transport layer, and MAC layer. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm effectively relieves congestion, and achieves higher throughput and lower energy consumption.
Playing through Pain: Children and Young People's Experiences of Physical Aggression and Violence in Sport
Authors: Stafford Anne , Alexander Kate , Fry Deborah
Published: June 2013

While there has been some focus on physical abuse in the general child abuse literature, there have been few studies examining the physical abuse of children in sport. This article focuses mainly on peer physical harm in sport. However, we argue that to fully understand physical harm between young people in sport requires understanding: (1) the ‘sporting ethos’ prevalent in sport where training and competing to the limits of physicality are part of the culture; and (2) the physical harm that occurs between coaches and young people as a context for understanding physical harm between young people. Results are based on a convenience sample of 6124 young people (age 18–22) who completed an online survey about their experiences of participating in sport as children; 89 follow‐up interviews were conducted with a sub‐set of these young people. Findings suggest that in sport, where training and competing to the limits of physicality are inherent to sporting achievement, physical harm is common and takes on a different form to physical harm of children in other settings. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘Results are based on a convenience sample of 6124 young people’

Key Practitioner Messages

Sport practitioners and sport bodies should put in place policies, procedures, training and practice which enable adults to systematically tackle harm occurring in sport settings including between peers.

Practitioners involved in working with children and young people in sport settings should take steps to promote a more positive sporting and coaching ethos and build upon what children and young people value about sport participation.
Galois Theory and Projective Geometry
Authors: Bogomolov Fedor , Tschinkel Yuri
Published: June 2013

We explore connections between birational anabelian geometry and abstract projective geometry. One of the applications is a proof of a version of the birational section conjecture. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Brief Overview of Some Physical Studies on the Relaxation Dynamics and Förster Resonance Energy Transfer of Semiconductor Quantum Dots
Authors: Sadhu Suparna , Patra Amitava
Published: June 2013

This article highlights some physical studies on the relaxation dynamics and Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) of semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) and the way these phenomena change with size, shape, and composition of the QDs. The understanding of the excited‐state dynamics of photoexcited QDs is essential for technological applications such as efficient solar energy conversion, light‐emitting diodes, and photovoltaic cells. Here, our emphasis is directed at describing the influence of size, shape, and composition of the QDs on their different relaxation processes, that is, radiative relaxation rate, nonradiative relaxation rate, and number of trap states. A stochastic model of carrier relaxation dynamics in semiconductor QDs was proposed to correlate with the experimental results. Many recent studies reveal that the energy transfer between the QDs and a dye is a FRET process, as established from 1/d6 distance dependence. QD‐based energy‐transfer processes have been used in applications such as luminescence tagging, imaging, sensors, and light harvesting. Thus, the understanding of the interaction between the excited state of the QD and the dye molecule and quantitative estimation of the number of dye molecules attached to the surface of the QD by using a kinetic model is important. Here, we highlight the influence of size, shape, and composition of QDs on the kinetics of energy transfer. Interesting findings reveal that QD‐based energy‐transfer processes offer exciting opportunities for future applications. Finally, a tentative outlook on future developments in this research field is given.
Nearly Monodispersed LiNbO3 Nanocrystals Synthesized by a Nonaqueous Sol–Gel Process and Their Photocatalytic H2 Evolution Activities
Authors: Feng Jianyong , Wang Zhiqiang , Wang Jiajia , Wan Lijuan , Yan Shicheng , Li Zhaosheng , Zou Zhigang
Published: June 2013

Phase‐pure and nearly monodispersed LiNbO3 nanocrystals are obtained by a nonaqueous sol–gel process, in which the reaction degrees of the precursors [LiNO3 and Nb(OEt)5] are precisely controlled to match each other. The concentration of hydrogen‐related defects affects the H2 evolution activities of the LiNbO3 nanocrystals.
Antipsychotics for delirium in the general hospital setting in consecutive 2453 inpatients: a prospective observational study
Authors: Hatta Kotaro , Kishi Yasuhiro , Wada Ken , Odawara Toshinari , Takeuchi Takashi , Shiganami Takafumi , Tsuchida Kazuo , Oshima Yoshio , Uchimura Naohisa , Akaho Rie , Watanabe Akira , Taira Toshihiro , Nishimura Katsuji , Hashimoto Naoko , Usui Chie , Nakamura Hiroyuki
Published: June 2013

Objective

Attention to risk of antipsychotics for older patients with delirium has been paid. A clinical question was whether risk of antipsychotics for older patients with delirium would exceed efficacy of those even in the general hospital setting.

Methods

A prospective observational study proceeded over a 1‐year period at 33 general hospitals, where at least one psychiatrist worked full time. Subjects were patients who developed delirium during their admission due to acute somatic diseases or surgery, and who received antipsychotics for delirium. The primary outcome was rates and kinds of serious adverse events.

Results

Among 2834 patients who developed delirium, 2453 patients received antipsychotics, such as risperidone (34%), quetiapine (32%), and parenteral haloperidol (20%), for delirium. Out of 2453 patients, 22 serious adverse events (0.9%) were reported. Aspiration pneumonia was the most frequent (17 patients, 0.7%), followed by cardiovascular events (4 patients, 0.2%) and venous thromboembolism (1 patient, 0.0%). There was no patient with a fracture or intracranial injury due to a fall. No one died because of antipsychotic side effects. The mean Clinical Global Impressions—Improvement Scale score was 2.02 (SD 1.09). Delirium was resolved within 1 week in more than half of the patients (54%).

Conclusions

In the general hospital setting under management including fine dosage adjustment and early detection of side effects, risk of antipsychotics for older patients with delirium might be low, in contrast to antipsychotics for dementia in the nursing home or outpatient settings. A point may be not how to avoid using antipsychotics but how to monitor their risk. © 2013 The Authors. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three‐year follow‐up of sentinel node–negative patients with early oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Sebbesen Lars , Bilde Anders , Therkildsen Marianne , Mortensen Jann , Specht Lena , von Buchwald Christian
Published: June 2013

Background

Resection of the primary tumor followed by sentinel node biopsy (SNB) for the clinically N0 patient has been implemented in our Head and Neck University Center. The purpose of this study was to report on the outcome for patients with negative SNB.

Methods

From April 2007 to October 2009, 53 consecutive SNB‐negative patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) T1 to T2 were accrued. Follow‐up was done continuously with the most recent examination in October 2011. The location of the sentinel lymph nodes was determined using dynamic and planar lymphoscintigraphy and single photon emission CT (SPECT)‐CT. Intraoperatively, a hand‐held gamma probe was applied. The harvested sentinel lymph nodes underwent histopathologic examination using step‐serial sectioning at 150‐μm intervals and immunohistochemistry. In the follow‐up period, we observed and examined the SNB‐negative patients for recurrence, morbidity, and mortality.

Results

Fifty‐three SNB‐negative patients were identified. Eight patients received adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) because of incomplete excision on the T site after the primary operation. An additional 2 patients received RT because of recurrences on the T site and N site. One patient died of recurrence on the T site and N site without having received additional treatment. Six patients died of nonrelated causes. During follow‐up, 3 patients with both T‐site and N‐site recurrence were found. No case of isolated recurrence on the N site only was found. Thirty‐six SNB‐negative patients treated only surgically with a median follow‐up of 37 months (range, 25–52 months) and no recurrence remain under active review.

Conclusion

Only 3 of the SNB‐negative patients subsequently developed recurrence in the T site and N site. The remaining 36 patients had no N‐site recurrence at median follow‐up of 37 months. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 36: 1109–1112, 2014
MODELLING REGIME SWITCHING AND STRUCTURAL BREAKS WITH AN INFINITE HIDDEN MARKOV MODEL
Authors: Song Yong
Published: June 2013

This paper proposes an infinite hidden Markov model to integrate the regime switching and structural break dynamics in a unified Bayesian framework. Two parallel hierarchical structures, one governing the transition probabilities and another governing the parameters of the conditional data density, keep the model parsimonious and improve forecasts. This flexible approach allows for regime persistence and estimates the number of states automatically. An application to US real interest rates compares the new model to existing parametric alternatives. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hematopoietic progenitor cell mobilization using low‐dose cyclophosphamide and granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor for multiple myeloma
Authors: Shimura Yuji , Kuroda Junya , Uchiyama Hitoji , Kawata‐Iida Eri , Tsutsumi Yasuhiko , Nagoshi Hisao , Mizutani Shinsuke , Yamamoto‐Sugitani Mio , Matsumoto Yosuke , Kobayashi Tsutomu , Horiike Shigeo , Shimazaki Chihiro , Kaneko Hiroto , Kobayashi Yutaka , Taniwaki Masafumi
Published: June 2013

High‐dose chemotherapy (HDT) supported by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) has long been one of the standards of care for younger patients with multiple myeloma (MM). Cyclophosphamide (CY) plus granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) has been the conventional preparation for hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) mobilization, although the optimal dosage of CY in this setting has not yet been clearly defined. This study investigated the efficacy and safety of low‐dose (LD‐)CY (1.5 g/m2) plus G‐CSF for conditioning for HPC apheresis harvest (HPC‐A) in 18 MM patients, and compared it with a regimen consisting of intermediate‐dose (ID)‐CY (4 g/m2) plus G‐CSF for 13 MM patients. Eleven patients in the former and six in the latter were treated with bortezomib (BTZ) during the induction therapy. Both regimens were comparably effective in terms of CD34+ cell yields, while adverse events, such as leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and febrile neutropenia, occurred significantly less frequently in the LD‐CY cohort. All patients in LD‐CY cohort started and completed their apheresis on day 7 or 8, whereas for the ID‐CY cohort the day of first apheresis varied widely from day 8 to 15. These findings indicate that the LD‐CY regimen is as effective as ID‐CY for HPC mobilization, while the former is clearly more practicable and convenient than the ID‐CY regimen for patients with MM. J. Clin. Apheresis 28:368–373, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dynamic Structural Transformation of Resveratrol‐Modified Stearate Liposomes Led to a Spontaneous Drug Release System
Authors: Chen Li‐Chou , Lin Shih‐Shan , Li Cun‐Zhao , Hsu Hsiu‐Fu , Weng Yu‐Jong , Cheng Chien‐Chung
Published: June 2013

A mono‐substituted resveratrol derivative, resveratrol‐modified stearate (RMS), was synthesized by selectively coupling of stearic acid to the monohroxyphenyl of resveratrol in order to enhance both the stability and bioavailability of resveratrol. The RMS self‐assembles into liposomes and a series of suprastructural transformations into metastable helical ribbon, linear wire‐like structures, and inert spherical nanoparticles were detected that may be induced by the hydrogen‐bonding interactions. As a model for drug‐release investigations, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were encapsulated successfully by RMS to generate vesicles and succeed to release AuNPs druing the transformation to a ribbon‐like metastable stucture at ambient temperature.
Superelevation and overspill control secondary flow dynamics in submarine channels
Authors: Dorrell R. M. , Darby S. E. , Peakall J. , Sumner E. J. , Parsons D. R. , Wynn R. B.
Published: June 2013

In subaerial and submarine meander bends, fluid flow travels downstream in a helical spiral, the structure of which is determined by centrifugal, hydrostatic, baroclinic, and Coriolis forces that together balance frictional stresses generated by the flow. The sense of rotation of this helical flow, and in particular, whether the near bed flow is directed toward the inner bank, e.g., “river‐normal,” or outer bank, e.g., “river‐reversed,” is crucial to the morphodynamic evolution of the channel. However, in recent years, there has been a debate over the river‐normal or river‐reversed nature of submarine flows. Herein, we develop a novel three‐dimensional closure of secondary flow dynamics, incorporating downstream convective material transport, to cast new light on this debate. Specifically, we show that the presence of net radial material transport, arising from flow superelevation and overspill, exerts a key control on the near bed orientation of secondary flow in submarine meanders. Our analysis implies that river‐reversed flows are likely to be much more prevalent throughout submarine‐canyon fan systems than prior studies have indicated.
Impact of marine biogeochemistry on the chemical mixing state and cloud forming ability of nascent sea spray aerosol
Authors: Collins Douglas B. , Ault Andrew P. , Moffet Ryan C. , Ruppel Matthew J. , Cuadra‐Rodriguez Luis A. , Guasco Timothy L. , Corrigan Craig E. , Pedler Byron E. , Azam Farooq , Aluwihare Lihini I. , Bertram Timothy H. , Roberts Gregory C. , Grassian Vicki H. , Prather Kimberly A.
Published: June 2013

The composition and properties of sea spray aerosol, a major component of the atmosphere, are often controlled by marine biological activity; however, the scope of impacts that ocean chemistry has on the ability for sea spray aerosol to act as cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) is not well understood. In this study, we utilize a mesocosm experiment to investigate the impact of marine biogeochemical processes on the composition and mixing state of sea spray aerosol particles with diameters < 0.2 µm produced by controlled breaking waves in a unique ocean‐atmosphere facility. An increase in relative abundance of a distinct, insoluble organic particle type was observed after concentrations of heterotrophic bacteria increased in the seawater, leading to an 86 ± 5% reduction in the hygroscopicity parameter (κ) at 0.2% supersaturation. Aerosol size distributions showed very little change and the submicron organic mass fraction increased by less than 15% throughout the experiment; as such, neither of these typical metrics can explain the observed reduction in hygroscopicity. Predictions of the hygroscopicity parameter that make the common assumption that all particles have the same bulk organic volume fractions lead to overpredictions of CCN concentrations by 25% in these experiments. Importantly, key changes in sea spray aerosol mixing state that ultimately influenced CCN activity were driven by bacteria‐mediated alterations to the organic composition of seawater.
Mandibular and hyoid muscles of galeomorph sharks (Chondrichthyes: Elasmobranchii), with remarks on their phylogenetic intrarelationships
Authors: Soares Mateus C. , de Carvalho Marcelo R.
Published: June 2013

The superorder Galeomorph comprises the orders Heterodontiformes, Orectolobiformes, Lamniformes, and Carcharhiniformes. Recent morphological and molecular support that it is a monophyletic taxon. The phyletic relationship within the Galeomorphi are also well resolved. However, only few morphological characters of the mandibular and hyoid muscles have been employed, and a detailed description of these muscles and their variations may contribute new interpretations of homology and to the discussion of different hypothesis of intrarelationships. This paper provides a detailed description of mandibular and hyoid arch muscles in galeomorph sharks, within a comparative elasmobranch framework, with the objective to discuss putative homologies that may elucidate our understanding of galeomorph evolution. Twenty‐eight galeomorph species were dissected, described, illustrated and compared with other elasmobranchs and with data from the literature. The Galeomorphi are supported as monophyletic by presenting the m. levator labii superioris attached directly to the neurocranium, different from the attachment through a tendon in basal squalomorphs. Heterodontiformes and Orectolobiformes share particular variations in the position and insertion of the m. levator labii superioris and the presence of a well‐defined m. levator hyomandibulae. Lamniformes and Carcharhiniformes show similar patterns in the position and attachment of the m. levator labii superioris, subdivision of the m. adductor mandibulae, and the presence of an almost indivisible m. levator hyomandibulae and m. constrictor hyoideus dorsalis, similar to the condition, albeit independently, in basal squalomorphs. No specific mandibular or hyoid arch muscle character was found to support the clade composed of Orectolobiformes, Lamniformes, and Carcharhiniformes, as advocated by recent phylogenetic analyses. J. Morphol. 274:1111–1123, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Extraction protocol and mass spectrometry method for quantification of doxorubicin released locally from prodrugs in tumor tissue
Authors: Ibsen Stuart , Su Yongxuan , Norton John , Zahavy Eran , Hayashi Tomoko , Adams Stephen , Wrasidlo Wolf , Esener Sadik
Published: June 2013

The localized conversion of inactive doxorubicin prodrug chemotherapeutics to pharmacalogically active forms is difficult to quantify in mouse tumor models because it occurs only in small regions of tissue. The tumor tissue extraction protocol and LC–MS/MS analysis method described here were optimized to obtain a detection limit of 7.8 pg for the activated doxorubicin and 0.36 ng for the doxorubicin prodrug. This method can be useful for determining the biodistribution and activation efficiency for many different doxorubicin prodrugs. It can also be used for quantification of doxorubicin from tumor models that have poor vascularization resulting in low tissue accumulation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimal single‐embryo mass spectrometry fingerprinting
Authors: Tata Alessandra , Sudano Mateus J. , Santos Vanessa G. , Landim‐Alvarenga Fernanda D.C. , Ferreira Christina R. , Eberlin Marcos N.
Published: June 2013

In pre‐implantation embryos, lipids play key roles in determining viability, cryopreservation and implantation properties, but often their analysis is analytically challenging because of the few picograms of analytes present in each of them. Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS) allows obtaining individual phospholipid profiles of these microscopic organisms. This technique is sensitive enough to enable analysis of individual intact embryos and monitoring the changes in membrane lipid composition in the early stages of development serving as screening method for studies of biology and biotechnologies of reproduction. This article introduces an improved, more comprehensive MALDI‐MS lipid fingerprinting approach that considerably increases the lipid information obtained from a single embryo. Using bovine embryos as a biological model, we have also tested optimal sample storage and handling conditions before the MALDI‐MS analysis. Improved information at the molecular level is provided by the use of a binary matrix that enables phosphatidylcholines, sphingomyelins, phosphatidylserines, phosphatidylinositols and phosphoethanolamines to be detected via MALDI(±)‐MS in both the positive and negative ion modes. An optimal MALDI‐MS protocol for lipidomic monitoring of a single intact embryo is therefore reported with potential applications in human and animal reproduction, cell development and stem cell research. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vivo hip joint contact distribution and bony impingement in normal and dysplastic human hips
Authors: Akiyama Keisuke , Sakai Takashi , Koyanagi Junichiro , Yoshikawa Hideki , Sugamoto Kazuomi
Published: June 2013

Our objectives were to clarify the 3D articular contact areas of the in vivo normal hip joint and acetabular dysplasia during specific positions using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), voxel‐based registration, and proximity mapping. Forty‐two normal and 24 dysplastic hips were examined. MRI was performed at four positions: neutral; 45° flexion; 15° extension; and the Patrick position. Femur and pelvis bone models were reconstructed at the neutral position and superimposed over the images of each different position using voxel‐based registration. The inferred cartilage contact and bony impingement were investigated using proximity mapping. The femoral head translated in the anterior or posteroinferior, anterosuperior, and posteroinferior direction from neutral to 45° flexion, 15° extension, and the Patrick position, respectively. Multiple regression analyses showed age, femoral head sphericity, and acetabular sphericity to be associated with higher hip instability. The present technique using subject‐specific models revealed the in vivo hip joint contact area in a population of healthy individuals and dysplastic patients without radioactive exposure. These results can be used for analyzing disease progression in the dysplastic hip and pathogenesis of acetabular labral tear. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31:1611–1619, 2013
Mechanisms of aluminum‐induced growth stimulation in tea (Camellia sinensis)
Authors: Hajiboland Roghieh , Bahrami Rad Sara , Barceló Juan , Poschenrieder Charlotte
Published: June 2013

Beneficial effects of aluminum (Al) on plant growth have been reported for plant species adapted to acid soils. However, mechanisms underlying the stimulatory effect of Al have not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to determine the possible contribution of photosynthesis, antioxidative defense, and the metabolism of both nitrogen and phenolics to the Al‐induced growth stimulation in tea (Camellia sinensis [L.] Kuntze) plants. In hydroponics, shoot growth achieved its maximum at 50 μM Al suply (24 μM Al3+ activity). A more than threefold increase of root biomass was observed for plants supplied with 300 μM Al (125 μM Al3+ activity). Total root length was positively related to root Al concentrations (r = 0.98). Chlorophyll a and carotenoid concentrations and net assimilation rates were considerably enhanced by Al supply in the young but not in the old leaves. Activity of nitrate reductase was not influenced by Al. Higher concentrations of soluble nitrogen compounds (nitrate, nitrite, amino acids) and reduction of protein concentrations suggest Al‐induced protein degradation. This occurred concomitantly with enhanced net CO2‐assimilation rates and carbohydrate concentrations. Aluminum treatments activated antioxidant defense enzymes and increased free proline content. Lowering of malondialdehyde concentrations by Al supply indicates that membrane integrity was not impaired by Al. Leaves and roots of Al‐treated plants had considerably lower phenolic and lignin concentrations in the cell walls, but a higher proportion of soluble phenolics. In conclusion, Al‐induced growth stimulation in tea plants was mediated by higher photosynthesis rate and increased antioxidant defense. Additionally, greater root surface area may improve water and nutrient uptake by the plants.
Collecting in situ precipitated iron oxides in their natural soil environment
Authors: Rennert Thilo , Mueller Carsten W. , Mansfeldt Tim , Lugmeier Johann
Published: June 2013

Avoiding chemical and physical artifacts during sampling is crucial for realistic analyses of mineral and other colloids in soil. We developed a sampler, which allows for the in situ collection of Fe oxides that precipitate in their natural environment in a Bg horizon of a Calcaric Gleysol. Simultaneous measurements of redox‐sensitive parameters confirmed temporal changes from Fe‐reducing to Fe‐oxidizing conditions on site.