bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Effects of Mechanical Preventive Measures on Alkali-Silica Reaction Expansion with Accelerated Mortar Bar Test
Authors: Musaoglu Orhan , Turanli Lutfullah , Saritas Afsin
Published: June 2014

This paper presents a modification to the apparatus of the mortar bar test of ASTM C490 in order to assess and compare the influence of mechanical preventive measures in reducing alkali-silica reaction (ASR) expansion in concrete with respect to the traditional measures. For this purpose, reinforced mortar specimens with or without pre-stressing force applied were examined and the effects of the reinforcement ratio and pre-stressing force on ASR-induced expansion and cracking were studied through the accelerated mortar bar test method of ASTM C1260. The mechanical preventive measure was also compared with a traditional preventive measure by using fly ash. The results show that reinforcement and pre-stressing force play a role in limiting expansion and cracking due to ASR and that the developed test apparatus in this study can be used for measurements.
Comparative Study of Basic Test and Resistance Curve Methods for Fracture Toughness Evaluation of Heat-Treated Zr-2.5Nb Alloy
Authors: Khandelwal H. K. , Singh R. N. , Bind A. K. , Sunil Saurav , Chakravartty J. K.
Published: June 2014

ASTM E1820-11, the most widely adopted standard for the determination of fracture toughness parameters, recommends two ductile crack growth correction methods for the evaluation of the J-integral parameter, viz., the basic test (BT) method and the resistance curve test (RC) method. In the present work, a comparison between the fracture toughness parameters obtained using these two methods for heat-treated Zr-2.5Nb alloy at 25°C and 300°C is presented. In order to examine the influence of a material's microstructural condition on the fracture toughness results obtained via these two methods, Zr-2.5Nb alloy was investigated under six solution heat-treated conditions after getting soaked at 850°C, 870°C, or 890°C for either 15 min or 30 min followed by water quenching. The BT method predicted a higher J parameter than the RC method for a given crack length. This deviation in the magnitude of J increased with increasing crack length and was found to be almost twice as much at room temperature as the deviation observed at 300°C. For smaller crack lengths (i.e., up to a/W < 0.54), the J parameters determined using the two methods showed insignificant deviation (<5 %). However, such deviation reached ∼20 %, corresponding to ∼0.63 a/W. Values of fracture toughness parameters such as JQ, Jmax, and dJ/da evaluated using the BT method were found to be higher than those obtained using the RC method. However, deviations in the JQ and Jmax parameters determined by the two methods were insignificant (less than ∼6 %), whereas the deviation in the dJ/da parameter was ∼15 %. The RC method, in contrast to the BT method, provides a marginally conservative estimation of the fracture toughness. The parameter α used in the BT method was observed to control the extent of deviation in the J–R curves derived using these methods.
Corolla Is a Novel Protein That Contributes to the Architecture of the Synaptonemal Complex of Drosophila
Authors: Collins Kimberly A , Unruh Jay R , Slaughter Brian D , Yu Zulin , Lake Cathleen M , Nielsen Rachel J , Box Kimberly S , Miller Danny E , Blumenstiel Justin P , Perera Anoja G , Malanowski Kathryn E , Hawley R Scott
Published: June 2014

In most organisms the synaptonemal complex (SC) connects paired homologs along their entire length during much of meiotic prophase. To better understand the structure of the SC, we aim to identify its components and to determine how each of these components contributes to SC function. Here, we report the identification of a novel SC component in Drosophila melanogaster female oocytes, which we have named Corolla. Using structured illumination microscopy, we demonstrate that Corolla is a component of the central region of the SC. Consistent with its localization, we show by yeast two-hybrid analysis that Corolla strongly interacts with Cona, a central element protein, demonstrating the first direct interaction between two inner-synaptonemal complex proteins in Drosophila. These observations help provide a more complete model of SC structure and function in Drosophila females.
Stridor in Asphyxiated Neonates Undergoing Therapeutic Hypothermia
Authors: Orme Judith , Kissack Christopher , Becher Julie-Clare
Published: June 2014

Therapeutic hypothermia is an established standard of care in the treatment of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Application of therapeutic hypothermia in the clinical setting may reveal a wider spectrum of adverse events than previously reported. We report 5 cases of transient respiratory stridor in 51 infants, occurring at different time points in the cooling process, which appeared to be unrelated to the intubation procedure. Therapeutic hypothermia was associated with transient stridor in this case series. Formal laryngoscopy is required to determine the underlying pathologic etiology.
Association of Maternal Hypertension and Chorioamnionitis With Preterm Outcomes
Authors: Gagliardi Luigi , Rusconi Franca , Bellù Roberto , Zanini Rinaldo ,   the Italian Neonatal Network
Published: June 2014

OBJECTIVES:

We compared the relative effect of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and chorioamnionitis on adverse neonatal outcomes in very preterm neonates, and studied whether gestational age (GA) modulates these effects.

METHODS:

A cohort of neonates 23 to 30 weeks' GA, born in 2008 to 2011 in 82 hospitals adhering to the Italian Neonatal Network, was analyzed. Infants born from mothers who had hypertensive disorders (N = 2096) were compared with those born after chorioamnionitis (N = 1510). Statistical analysis employed logistic models, adjusting for GA, hospital, and potential confounders.

RESULTS:

Overall mortality was higher after hypertension than after chorioamnionitis (odds ratio [OR], 1.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08–1.80), but this relationship changed across GA weeks; the OR for hypertension was highest at low GA, whereas from 28 weeks' GA onward, mortality was higher for chorioamnionitis. For other outcomes, the relative risks were constant across GA; infants born after hypertension had an increased risk for bronchopulmonary dysplasia (OR, 2.20; 95% CI, 1.68–2.88) and severe retinopathy of prematurity (OR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.02–2.15), whereas there was a lower risk for early-onset sepsis (OR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.19–0.34), severe intraventricular hemorrhage (OR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.48–0.88), periventricular leukomalacia (OR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.48–1.01), and surgical necrotizing enterocolitis or gastrointestinal perforation (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.31–0.72).

CONCLUSIONS:

Mortality and other adverse outcomes in very preterm infants depend on antecedents of preterm birth. Hypertension and chorioamnionitis are associated with different patterns of outcomes; for mortality, the effect changes across GA weeks.
Impact of Vaccination on the Epidemiology of Varicella: 1995–2009
Authors: Baxter Roger , Tran Trung N. , Ray Paula , Lewis Edwin , Fireman Bruce , Black Steve , Shinefield Henry R. , Coplan Paul M. , Saddier Patricia
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND:

When varicella vaccine was licensed in the United States in 1995, there were concerns that childhood vaccination might increase the number of adolescents susceptible to varicella and shift disease toward older age groups where it can be more severe.

METHODS:

We conducted a series of 5 cross-sectional studies in 1994 to 1995 (prevaccine), 2000, 2003, 2006, and 2009 in Kaiser Permanente of Northern California to assess changes in varicella epidemiology in children and adolescents, as well as changes in varicella hospitalization in people of all ages. For each study, information on varicella history and varicella occurrence during the past year was obtained by telephone survey from a sample of ∼8000 members 5 to 19 years old; varicella hospitalization rates were calculated for the entire membership.

RESULTS:

Between 1995 and 2009, the overall incidence of varicella in 5- to 19-year-olds decreased from 25.8 to 1.3 per 1000 person-years, a ∼90% to 95% decline in the various age categories (5–9, 10–14, and 15–19 years of age). The proportion of varicella-susceptible children and adolescents also decreased in all age groups, including in 15- to 19-year-olds (from 15.6% in 1995 to 7.6% in 2009). From 1994 to 2009, age-adjusted varicella hospitalization rates in the general member population decreased from 2.13 to 0.25 per 100 000, a ∼90% decline.

CONCLUSIONS:

In the 15 years after the introduction of varicella vaccine, a major reduction in varicella incidence and hospitalization was observed with no evidence of a shift in the burden of varicella to older age groups.
Мікрофлора урогенітального тракту жінок із неспецифічними вульвовагінітами та вагінозами у Дніпропетровській області
Authors: Ponedilok A. O. , Gavryliuk V. G. , Khlopova Y. V. , Vinnikov A. I.
Published: June 2014

The spectrum of causative agents of nonspecific infections of the women urogenital tracts is studied. It is established that the typical etiological agents of the vaginosis are yeast-like fungi Candida albicans (35.7 %) and Escherichia coli (30.2 %), and the clinical isolates of E. coli (47.3 %) and Proteus mirabilis (15.8 %) are usual for vulvovaginitis. The frequency of detection of the causative agents of inflammatory genito-urinary diseases in women of different age groups varies: strains of E. coli are often found in patients of 1–12 years (47.3 %) and in women of 43–66 years old (36.0 %), but C. albicans – in patients of 18–42 years (39.0 %). High levels of the resistance to penicilline, tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics in selected clinical isolates of opportunistic microorganisms are determined.
Combinatrial study for Mg-Si thin films fabricated by RF co-sputtering with Mg and Si targets
Authors: Morita Y. , Hayashi Y. , Tsuchiura H. , Nishitani M.
Published: June 2014

Mg-Si thin films were systematically studied using combinatorial approach by co-sputtering with Mg and Si targets. Single phase of Mg2Si appeared around the stoichiometric composition region, and in Mg-rich region (Mg/Si>4) Mg2Si and Mg phases coexisted. The transition of electrical conduction type from n-type to p-type occurred near the stoichiometric composition region where the strongest peak of Mg2Si appeared in the XRD patterns and the Raman scattering spectra. The p-type conduction was observed in Mg-poor region near the stoichiometric composition region. The results of first principle calculation suggest that Mg vacancy may cause p-type conduction.
Electronic properties of the ZnO:Al/n-Si (100), (110) and (111) interfaces
Authors: Lindberg Per , Quemener Vincent , Bergum Kristin , Gan Jiantuo , Svensson Bengt G. , Monakhov Edouard V.
Published: June 2014

Aluminum doped ZnO (AZO) has been deposited on (100), (110) and (111) oriented n-type Si and on fused silica by atomic layer deposition (ALD). The films have been post deposition annealed in the temperature range 200-500 οC. The AZO films have been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Hall and transmittance measurements. Circular diodes have been fabricated from the AZO/Si structures and characterized by current-voltage (IV) and deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS). The AZO films form Schottky junctions with the Si substrates for all the crystallographic orientations. It is established that after post deposition annealing the structure AZO/n-Si (110) is distinguished as the system with largest rectification.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance as a Probe of the Topological Insulator Bi2Se3
Authors: Nisson David M. , Dioguardi Adam P. , Klavins Peter , Lin Ching H. , Shirer Kent , Shockley Abigail C. , Crocker John , Curro Nicholas J.
Published: June 2014

Topological insulators are a new class of materials with the ability to carry spin-polarized currents on their surfaces. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements can probe the magnetic interactions between specific isotopes and the electronic system of a material. We present 209Bi NMR spectra and relaxation rate data on single crystals of the topological insulator material Bi2Se3 grown under various conditions. Our NMR data on single crystals reveal a significant strength of coupling between the nuclear spins and the bulk carrier spins, suggesting that nuclear spins may have a sizeable effect on spin-polarized surface currents.
Electron Emission From Diamond Films
Authors: Zhirnov V.V. , Hren J.J.
Published: June 2014

Diamond always has been considered an exciting material. In addition to its other outstanding properties, diamond's capacity for cold electron emission has become a “hot” topic of research in recent years. The electron emission from diamond films is important for both fundamental and applied purposes, which may be expressed by two questions as follows: “Why does diamond emit electrons?” and “How can an efficient cold cathode be made?”

The “diamond-emission era” started in 1991. That year three papers were published, reporting unexpectedly high electron emissivity from diamond. The first paper by Djubua and Chubun was very practical, having been written by device engineers. They tried different materials for the fabrication of pointed field emission cathodes and found that emitters made from diamondlike carbon (DLC) demonstrated a lower emission threshold compared to other materials. A second paper by Wang et al. reported a low emission threshold for chemical-vapor-deposition (CVD) diamond films, whereas a third paper by Geis et al. described the fabrication and operation of diamond cold cathodes.

Since 1991 hundreds of papers about electron emission from diamond and diamondlike materials have been published. The motivations for this increasing activity are prospective applications in vacuum microelectronics—that is, vacuum emission devices fabricated by modern microelectronic technologies. Experts expect that combining the physical advantages of emission devices and the technological progress in solid-state microelectronics will result in the development of an entirely new generation of high-performance electronic devices—among them, flat-panel displays and miniature microwave tubes.
A Comparative Study on Microgap of Premade Abutments and Abutments Cast in Base Metal Alloys
Authors: Lalithamma Jaini Jaini , Mallan Sreekanth Anantha , Murukan Pazhani Appan , Zarina Rita
Published: June 2014

The study compared the marginal accuracy of premade and cast abutments. Premade titanium, stainless steel, and gold abutments formed the control groups. Plastic abutments were cast in nickel-chromium, cobalt-chromium and grade IV titanium. The abutment/implant interface was analyzed. Analysis of variance and Duncan's multiple range test revealed no significant difference in mean marginal microgap between premade gold and titanium abutments and between premade stainless steel and cast titanium abutments. Statistically significant differences (P < .001) were found among all other groups.
A Review of Platelet Derived Growth Factor Playing Pivotal Role in Bone Regeneration
Authors: Shah Prasun , Keppler Louise , Rutkowski James
Published: June 2014

This article is focused on the literature review and study of recent advances in the field of bone grafting, which involves platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) as one of the facilitating factors in bone regeneration. This article includes a description of the mechanism of PDGF for use in surgeries where bone grafting is required, which promotes future application of PDGF for faster bone regeneration or inhibition of bone growth if required as in osteosarcoma. The important specific activities of PDGF include mitogenesis (increase in the cell populations of healing cells), angiogenesis (endothelial mitoses into functioning capillaries), and macrophage activation (debridement of the wound site and a second phase source of growth factors for continued repair and bone regeneration). Thus PDGF can be utilized in wound with bone defect to conceal the wound with repair of bony defect.
Assessment of the Correlation Between Insertion Torque and Resonance Frequency Analysis of Implants Placed in Bone Tissue of Different Densities
Authors: Filho Luiz Carlos Magno , Cirano Fabiano Ribeiro , Hayashi Fernando , Feng Hsu Shao , Conte Alexandre , Dib Luciano Lauria , Casati Marcio Zaffalon
Published: June 2014

The primary stability of dental implants is fundamental for osseointegration. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the correlation between insertion torque (IT) and resonance frequency analysis (RFA) of implants placed in mandibles and maxillas of different bone densities. Eighty dental implants were placed in maxillas and mandibles, and IT and the implant stability quotient (ISQ) were measured at the time of implant insertion. Bone density was assessed subjectively by the Lekholm and Zarb index. The type I and II densities were grouped together (group A)as were the type III and IV densities (group B). The IT in group A was higher (Student t test, P = .0013) than in group B (46.27 ± 18.51 Ncm, 33.62 ± 14.74 Ncm, respectively). The implants placed in group A showed higher ISQ (Student t test, P = .0004) than those placed in group B (70.09 ± 7.50, 63.66 ± 8.00, respectively). A significant correlation between IT and the ISQ value was observed for group A (Pearson correlation test; r = 0.35; P = .0213) and for group B (r = 0.37; P = .0224). Within the limitations of this study, it was possible to conclude that there is a correlation between IT and RFA of implants placed in mandibles and maxillas of different bone densities.
Eight-Year Follow-Up of a Fixed-Detachable Maxillary Prosthesis Utilizing an Attachment System: Clinical Protocol for Individuals With Skeletal Class III Malocclusions
Authors: de Avila Erica Dorigatti , de Barros Luiz Antônio Borelli , Del'Acqua Marcelo Antonialli , Nogueira Sergio Sualdini , de Assis Mollo Francisco
Published: June 2014

The aim of this article is to describe a successful clinical protocol for prosthodontic rehabilitation of a patient with a skeletal Class III malocclusion using a fixed-detachable maxillary prosthesis supported by 6 implants and the MK1 attachment system. The patient was followed up for 8 years. A 46-year-old edentulous woman with a skeletal Class III malocclusion expressed dissatisfaction with her old existing maxillary denture from an esthetic point of view and frustration regarding its function. A fixed-detachable maxillary prosthesis using the MK1 attachment system was made. The patient was followed up clinically and radiographically for 8 years. No bone loss, fracture of prosthetic components, or fracture of the prosthesis was detected in that period. A fixed detachable maxillary prosthesis using the MK1 attachment system is a treatment option for patients with Class III malocclusions who opt not to undergo orthognathic surgery.
Active Implant Peri-Apical Lesion: A Case Report Treated Via Guided Bone Regeneration With a 5-Year Clinical and Radiographic Follow-Up
Authors: Quaranta Alessandro , Andreana Sebastiano , Pompa Giorgio , Procaccini Maurizio
Published: June 2014

Implant peri-apical lesion (IPL) is a periapical lesion, usually asymptomatic, in which the coronal portion of the implant achieves a normal bone to implant interface. A case of IPL following immediate implant placement and treated with guided bone regeneration (GBR) principles is described. Five-year clinical and radiographic follow-up with cone-beam assessment showed complete healing of the bone. GBR principles applied to IPL could completely solve the lesion.
Topical Simvastatin Improves the Pro-Angiogenic and Pro-Osteogenic Properties of Bioglass Putty in the Rat Calvaria Critical-Size Model
Authors: Allon Irit , Anavi Yakir , Allon Dror M.
Published: June 2014

Objective was to describe the effect of bioactive glass putty with and without topical simvastatin on new bone formation in critical-sized defects of rat calvaria. A calvarial bone defect was created in 20 male Wistar rats and filled with bioactive glass alone (n = 10) or combined with simvastatin (n = 10). After 4 weeks, the defects were histomorphometrically evaluated for volume fraction (Vv) of woven bone, vessel density, bioglass quantity, and inflammation. Compared to the bioglass-only group, rats treated with simvastatin had greater Vv of blood vessels (3.3% ± 0.7 vs 1.6% ± 0.1, P = .0002) and new bone (2.3% ± 0.2 vs 1.8% ± 2.5, P = .003). The Vv of the bioglass remnants in the bioglass-only group was higher than in the group treated with simvastatin (2.4% ± 0.08 vs 1.7% ± 0.3, P < .0004). Chronic inflammation was noted in 1 rat from each group. Topical simvastatin seems to improve the pro-angiogenic and pro-osteogenic properties of bioglass putty in rat calvaria critical-size defects without significant inflammation.
The Effects of Sinus Membrane Pathology on Bone Augmentation and Procedural Outcome Using Minimal Invasive Antral Membrane Balloon Elevation
Authors: Kfir Efraim , Goldstein Moshe , Abramovitz Itzhak , Kfir Vered , Mazor Ziv , Kaluski Edo
Published: June 2014

Membrane pathology tends to complicate the postprocedural course of open sinus lift by ostio-meatal complex (OMC) obstruction and consequent acute sinusitis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcome of subjects with considerable sinus membrane pathology undergoing maxillary sinus floor augmentation and simultaneous implant placement using the minimal invasive antral membrane balloon elevation (MIAMBE) method. This study was a retrospective chart review of MIAMBE procedures performed in the presence of significant sinus membrane pathology. Sixteen patients with maxillary sinus membrane thickening in well-ventilated OMC as determined by dental computerized tomography underwent sinus augmentation and simultaneous implant placement using the MIAMBE technique. All 16 procedures were successfully concluded without significant procedural or postprocedural complications or implant failure. Post MIAMBE membrane pathology regressed or disappeared in 8 patients (50%) or remained unchanged in 6 patients (37.5%), while in 2 patients the sinus membrane pathology was limited to evaluation by periapical X rays. Sinus augmentation using the MIAMBE technique can be performed safely in asymptomatic patients in the presence of sinus membrane pathology if the OMC is not obstructed. In a significant proportion of these cases, complete resolution of the membrane pathology after MIAMBE is observed. When compared to open sinus lift, OMC obstruction is less likely to occur when employing the MIAMBE method.
Safe Sinus Lift: Use of Acrylic Stone Trimmer to Avoid Sinus Lining Perforation
Authors: Haribabu Prashanth Konatham , Raja Krishna Kumar , Iyer Shankar
Published: June 2014

Iatrogenic injury to the maxillary sinus membrane is a common complication during direct sinus lift procedures. The most common cause is perforation of the Schneiderian membrane using a tungsten-carbide round bur no.6. We propose a safe technique in which an acrylic stone trimmer is used to create a window in the maxillary antrum thereby minimizing the risk of injury to the delicate sinus membrane.
Social use of alcohol among adolescent offenders: a fundamental approach toward human needs
Authors: D?Andrea Gustavo , Ventura Carla Aparecida Arena , Costa Júnior Moacyr Lobo da
Published: June 2014

This study examined some basic health care approaches toward human needs, with a particular focus on nursing. We aimed to incorporate these approaches into the discussion of the mental health of adolescent offenders who consume alcohol. We discuss specific needs of the delinquent group, critique policies that prioritize coercion of adolescent offenders, and the role that nurses could play in the sphere of juvenile delinquency.
Hyperbolic models for a 2-D backfill and reinforcement pullout
Authors: Huang C.-C. , Hsieh H.-Y. , Hsieh Y.-L.
Published: June 2014

ABSTRACT: A series of direct shear tests were performed using an idealised two-dimensional test medium consisting of rhombically stacked steel rods to facilitate displacement computations for reinforced slopes using a force-equilibrium-based finite-displacement method. A series of pullout tests using extensible and stiff reinforcement with various embedment lengths (Lt) were also performed. Modelling for the non-linear behaviour of shear stress–displacement and pullout force–displacement relationships was performed using hyperbolic models. In modelling shear stress–displacement relationships for the steel rod backfill, a linear Mohr–Coulomb failure envelope was assumed for the investigated range of confining pressures. It was found that model parameters for the initial shear stiffness, namely K and n, are significantly different from those for ordinary soils because of the regular and dense packing of the steel rods, but are advantageous as a backfill material for model tests because of its consistency and repeatability. Results of hyperbolic curve fitting for the pullout force–displacement relationship indicate that the model parameters describing non-linear and pressure-dependent behaviour of reinforcement pullout, namely Kt, m, and Rt, are functions of Lt. The modelled hyperbolic shear stress–displacement relationships and the pullout force–displacement relationships are in good agreement with the experimental ones and are applicable for simulating the behaviour of model slopes consisting of steel rod assemblies.
Performance of three GCLs used for covering gold mine tailings for 4 years under field and laboratory exposure conditions
Authors: Hosney M.S. , Rowe R.K.
Published: June 2014

ABSTRACT: The performance of geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) above arsenic-rich gold mine tailings was investigated by the construction of a test cover comprised of three GCL products placed above the tailings at an abandoned gold mine in Nova Scotia, Canada. In parallel research, the performance of the three commercially available GCLs was assessed based on a series of laboratory column experiments. Of the three needle-punched GCLs tested, one has untreated Wyoming bentonite and a woven carrier geotextile; the second has a polymer-enhanced Wyoming bentonite and a scrim-reinforced nonwoven carrier geotextile, and the third has a polymer-enhanced Wyoming bentonite and woven carrier geotextile coated by a thin polypropylene geofilm. After 4 years of exposure in the field and laboratory, the bentonite structure of all exhumed GCLs appeared to be well hydrated with no visible cracks provided that the cover soil thickness was ≥ 0.7 m. The GCL with untreated bentonite exhibited the highest reduction in the exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP; decreased to 1–3% in field and 4–29% in laboratory) and swell index (decreased to 7–12 ml/2 g in both field and laboratory tests). Despite this reduction in the swelling capacity, the maximum measured hydraulic conductivity (k) for this GCL was 1 × 10−10 m/s, which is still considered low. The GCLs with polymer-enhanced bentonite experienced less cation exchange (ESP = 10–27% in the field and 17–53% in the laboratory) than the GCL with untreated bentonite. The k values of the GCL with polymer-enhanced bentonite and non-coated carrier geotextile (3.6 × 10−11 to 7.9 × 10−11 m/s in the field and 1.6 × 10−11 to 6.7 × 10−11 m/s in the laboratory) were lower than those measured for the GCL with untreated bentonite. The lowest measured k values (3.6 × 10−12 to 9.4 × 10−12 m/s) were for the GCL with polymer-enhanced bentonite and geofilm coating the carrier geotextile. All three GCLs prevented the migration of arsenic to the overlying cover soil, even when the GCL was resting directly above the tailings without a foundation layer.
Treatment of an expansive soil by mechanical and chemical techniques
Authors: Estabragh A.R. , Rafatjo H. , Javadi A.A.
Published: June 2014

ABSTRACT: This paper presents the results of treatment of an expansive soil by mechanical and chemical techniques against swelling. Mechanical treatment was done by reinforcing the soil with randomly distributed fibres and chemical treatment by using cement or lime as a chemical agent. All the experiments on untreated and treated samples were conducted in an oedometer. The experimental programme consisted of two groups of tests. The first group involved the tests on expansive soil reinforced with randomly distributed fibres (mechanical improvement) with different percentages (0.5, 1 and 1.5%), and different lengths (10, 20 and 30 mm), in bar shape with diameter of 0.30 mm or tape shape with two different widths (3.0 and 5.0 mm). The second group of tests consisted of samples that were mixed with different percentages (5, 8 and 10%) of cement or lime (chemical improvement) for different curing times. The results showed that, compared with the natural soil, the swelling behaviour (swelling potential and swelling pressure) was reduced by adding randomly mixed discrete fibres. The reduction of swelling potential and swelling pressure is also a function of percentage, length and type of fibre (bar or tape shape). The results also indicated that the addition of cement and lime caused reduction in swelling potential and its effect was considerably more than the influence of fibre. The effect of chemical agent is also a function of percentage of the chemical agent and the curing time.
Plant functional traits as determinants of population stability
Authors: Májeková Maria , de Bello Francesco , Doležal Jiří , Lepš Jan
Published: June 2014

Understanding the processes regulating population temporal stability is important to infer species coexistence and ecosystem stability patterns. It has been hypothesized that population temporal stability could be driven by functional trade‐offs in resource acquisition and growth rate strategies. We tested this hypothesis by analyzing a 13‐year data set from a mown grassland community in a factorial experiment with fertilization and dominant removal as the main treatment effects. Population temporal stability, measured as a coefficient of variation of species' biomass over time, was related to plant traits covering different functional trade‐offs. These included plant height, leaf dry matter content (LDMC), specific leaf area, seed mass, leaf δ13C, and rooting depth. Three of the traits (LDMC, rooting depth, and leaf δ13C) had significant relationships with population temporal stability, even after accounting for species' phylogenetic relatedness. Higher values of LDMC, the best predictor, were consistently associated with greater population temporal stability across all experimental conditions. This suggests a functional trade‐off along the leaf economics spectrum, with more conservative, slow‐growing species being more stable over time. Incorporating functional trade‐offs into the assessment of population temporal dynamics will allow for a more comprehensive understanding of the processes that sustain the stability of ecosystems and species coexistence.
Improved Production Methods in the California Fields
Authors: O'Neill Frank E.
Published: June 2014

A large amount of work has been done by the California operators during thepast few years in an attempt to increase the recovery of oil from the wells.New methods have been devised and old methods improved with gratifying results.Much valuable equipment has been perfected and at this time every effort isbeing put forth by California operators to develop more efficient methods ofrecovery.

The greater amount of experimental work has been done in connection withpumping wells and the most marked improvement has been along this line. Therehas been no outstanding method developed in the last few years by which theproduction of flowing wells may be materially altered other than the old systemof properly adjusting the bean or flow nipple to meet the conditions in theparticular well. Some equipment has been developed in the way of adjustablebeans, beans which may be more quickly and easily changed and others which havebeen built stronger or harder at the discharge end where the greatest abrasionoccurs. All of this reverts however to the old method of controlling theflowing well by adjusting the bean to meet the rock pressure and sandconditions. At times when a flowing well shows a tendency to decrease rapidlyit has been possible to revive the well by flowing it through a larger openingfor a few minutes. This serves as a means of cleaning the well of accumulatedsediment, allowing the oil freer access to the hole. Some of the improvedmethods which have been developed are considered here. They may be groupedunder two heads:Precautions taken in drilling the wells.Methods to maintain production.

Precautions Taken in Drilling the Wells

Within the past few years it has become universal policy to core the wellsfrom a point above where the water string is to be cemented to the top of theoil sand. If not cored continuously the formation changes are usually cored.This method is applied not only to the new wells but frequently to redrillingwells where the repair work is being done with the rotary. The distance abovethe oil sand at which coring is commenced is governed by the knowledge at handof the property.
Formation Testers
Authors: O'Neill Frank E.
Published: June 2014

The formation tester, as the name implies, is a tool built for testing thecontents of sands encountered in drilling wells without actually cementingcasing on the sand.

The tester was developed in the Mid-Continent and has been in use commerciallythere since about 1926. However, some two dozen patents have been issued onformation testers dating back to the seventies. The method apparently was anoutgrowth of the old Mother Hubbard grain or bean packer, used around casingbefore the days of cementing casing. These packers were also seated in atapered hole and if the formation tested was not satisfactory the casing waspulled loose and the hole taken down to another formation. A great deal ofexperimental work has been done in its development, and as a result of thiswork the formation tester became an accepted integral part of the petroleumdevelopment in California.

The formation tester was introduced into California some three years ago by M.O. Johnston. Months of discouraging and expensive work followed itsintroduction into this state, but one organization after another tried the tooland its use is now fairly general. Shortly after Johnston began testing inCalifornia, the Halliburton tester was also introduced into the state and nowanother too) is being introduced, the Shaffer-Boles tester.

Princaple and Operation of Testers

The principle employed in all formation testers is that of packing off thefluid in the hole above the formation to be tested and thereby preventing itfrom having access to the testing tool. This permits the fluid contained in thegiven formation to have unrestricted access to the tool. It is accomplished byrunning the tool and packer on the bottom of the drill pipe; the valves in thetool being closed while going into the hole to prevent fluid from entering thedrill pipe. The packer is then seated at the desired point, trapping thedrilling fluid above it. When this has been done, the valves in the tool areopened and the fluid from the formation is allowed to enter the empty pipethrough the tool.
Flow-based anomaly intrusion detection system using two neural network stages
Authors: Abuadlla Yousef , Kvascev Goran , Gajin Slavko , Jovanovic Zoran
Published: June 2014

Computer systems and networks suffer due to rapid increase of attacks, and in
order to keep them safe from malicious activities or policy violations, there
is need for effective security monitoring systems, such as Intrusion
Detection Systems (IDS). Many researchers concentrate their efforts on this
area using different approaches to build reliable intrusion detection
systems. Flow-based intrusion detection systems are one of these approaches
that rely on aggregated flow statistics of network traffic. Their main
advantages are host independence and usability on high speed networks, since
the metrics may be collected by network device hardware or standalone probes.
In this paper, an intrusion detection system using two neural network stages
based on flow-data is proposed for detecting and classifying attacks in
network traffic. The first stage detects significant changes in the traffic
that could be a potential attack, while the second stage defines if there is
a known attack and in that case classifies the type of attack. The first
stage is crucial for selecting time windows where attacks, known or unknown,
are more probable. Two different neural network structures have been used,
multilayer and radial basis function networks, with the objective to compare
performance, memory consumption and the time required for network training.
The experimental results demonstrate that the designed models are promising
in terms of accuracy and computational time, with low probability of false
alarms.
Facilitating the interaction with data warehouse schemas through a visual web-based approach
Authors: Borges Clemente , Macías José
Published: June 2014

In most respects, there are implicit drawbacks concerning representation and
interaction with data in relational-database applications. On the one hand,
there is a lack of expressiveness and ease of use in the user interfaces that
handle such data. On the other hand, there is an implicit need for
interactive end-user visual tools to query data and avoid dependency on
programming languages. The main aim of this work is to study the problem of
database interaction and usability, comparing existing solutions and
providing a new approach that overcomes existing problems. We propose a
web-based tool that manipulates Data Warehouse schemas by using a visual
language to represent the database structure and providing several
visualization techniques that facilitate the interaction and creation of
queries involving different levels of complexity. We based our research on an
End-User Development approach that has been evaluated to obtain some initial
usability indicators.
Retinal Vessel Calibers Predict Long-term Microvascular Complications in Type 1 Diabetes: The Danish Cohort of Pediatric Diabetes 1987 (DCPD1987)
Authors: Broe Rebecca , Rasmussen Malin L. , Frydkjaer-Olsen Ulrik , Olsen Birthe S. , Mortensen Henrik B. , Hodgson Lauren , Wong Tien Y. , Peto Tunde , Grauslund Jakob
Published: June 2014

Diabetic neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy cause significant morbidity in patients with type 1 diabetes, even though improvements in treatment modalities delay the appearance and reduce the severity of these complications. To prevent or further delay the onset, it is necessary to better understand common underlying pathogenesis and to discover preclinical biomarkers of these complications. Retinal vessel calibers have been associated with the presence of microvascular complications, but their long-term predictive value has only been sparsely investigated. We examined retinal vessel calibers as 16-year predictors of diabetic nephropathy, neuropathy, and proliferative retinopathy in a young population-based Danish cohort with type 1 diabetes. We used semiautomated computer software to analyze vessel diameters on baseline retinal photos. Calibers of all vessels coursing through a zone 0.5–1 disc diameter from the disc margin were measured and summarized as the central artery and vein equivalents. In multiple regression analyses, we found wider venular diameters and smaller arteriolar diameters were both predictive of the 16-year development of nephropathy, neuropathy, and proliferative retinopathy. Early retinal vessel caliber changes are seemingly early markers of microvascular processes, precede the development of microvascular complications, and are a potential noninvasive predictive test on future risk of diabetic retinopathy, neuropathy, and nephropathy.
Incidence of Pancreatitis and Pancreatic Cancer in a Randomized Controlled Multicenter Trial (SAVOR-TIMI 53) of the Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitor Saxagliptin
Authors: Raz Itamar , Bhatt Deepak L. , Hirshberg Boaz , Mosenzon Ofri , Scirica Benjamin M. , Umez-Eronini Amarachi , Im KyungAh , Stahre Christina , Buskila Alona , Iqbal Nayyar , Greenberger Norton , Lerch Markus M.
Published: June 2014

OBJECTIVE

To determine the incidence of pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer in the SAVOR-TIMI 53 trial.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 16,492 type 2 diabetic patients ≥40 years old with established cardiovascular (CV) disease or CV risk factors were randomized to saxagliptin or placebo and followed for 2.1 years. Outcome measures were investigator reported with blinded expert adjudication of total pancreatitis (acute and chronic) and reported cases of pancreatic cancer.

RESULTS

Trial investigators reported 35 events of pancreatitis in each treatment arm in 63 patients (33 [0.40%] in the saxagliptin arm and 30 [0.37%] in control arm), with a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.09 (95% CI 0.66–1.79, P = 0.80). Adjudication confirmed pancreatitis in 24 patients (26 events) in the saxagliptin arm (0.29%) and 21 patients (25 events) in placebo arm (0.26%), with an HR of 1.13 (0.63–2.06, P = 0.77). Cases of definite acute pancreatitis were confirmed in 17 (0.2%) vs. 9 (0.1%) (HR 1.88 [0.86–4.41], P = 0.17), definite plus possible pancreatitis in 22 vs. 16 (HR 1.36 [0.72–2.64], P = 0.42), and chronic pancreatitis in 2 vs. 6 (HR 0.33 [0.05–1.44], P = 0.18) in the saxagliptin and placebo arms, respectively. No differences in time to event onset, concomitant risk factors for pancreatitis, investigator-reported causality from study medication or disease severity, and outcome were found between treatment arms. The investigators reported 5 and 12 cases of pancreatic cancer in the saxagliptin and placebo arms, respectively (HR 0.42 [0.13–1.12], P = 0.09).

CONCLUSIONS

In the SAVOR-TIMI 53 trial, within 2.1 years of follow-up, risk for pancreatitis in type 2 diabetic patients treated with saxagliptin was low and apparently similar to placebo, with no sign of increased risk for pancreatic cancer. Further studies are needed to completely resolve the pancreatic safety issues with incretin-based therapy.
Hypoglycemia at Admission in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction Predicts a Higher 30-Day Mortality in Patients With Poorly Controlled Type 2 Diabetes Than in Well-Controlled Patients
Authors: Lee Sang Ah , Cho Suk Ju , Jeong Myung Ho , Kim Young Jo , Kim Chong Jin , Cho Myeong Chan , Kim Hyo-Soo , Ahn Youngkeun , Koh Gwanpyo , Lee Jeong mi , Oh Seok Kyu , Yun Kyeong Ho , Kim Ha Young , Cho Chung Gu , Lee Dae Ho ,   on behalf of the KAMIR/KorMI Registry
Published: June 2014

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate the association between hypoglycemia at admission and 30-day mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and to determine whether these associations differed according to diabetes-control status in AMI patients with diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed the prognostic significance of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia in 34,943 AMI patients with or without type 2 diabetes from two AMI registries: the Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry (KAMIR) and the Korea Working Group on Myocardial Infarction (KorMI).

RESULTS

The patients were divided into five groups according to serum-glucose levels at admission: <3.9 mmol/L (<70 mg/dL); 3.9–7.72 mmol/L (70–139 mg/dL); 7.78–11.06 mmol/L (140–199 mg/dL); 11.11–14.39 mmol/L (200–259 mg/dL); and ≥14.44 mmol/L (≥260 mg/dL). The 30-day mortality rates in the lowest and highest glucose groups were higher than those in other groups; the lowest glucose group had the highest mortality for patients with type 2 diabetes, after adjusting for multiple factors. We also extracted and compared four subgroups from the patients with type 2 diabetes, based on hemoglobin A1c and serum-glucose levels at admission: group A, <6.5% (48 mmol/mol) and <3.9 mmol/L; group B, <6.5% (48 mmol/mol) and ≥11.11 mmol/L; group C, ≥8% (64 mmol/mol) and <3.9 mmol/L; and group D, ≥8% (64 mmol/mol) and ≥11.11 mmol/L. Group C had the highest 30-day mortality rate among the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that hypoglycemia at admission affects clinical outcomes differently in AMI patients with type 2 diabetes depending on the diabetes-control status.
Complexation of Z-ligustilide with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin to improve stability and oral bioavailability
Authors: Lu Yapeng , Liu Siyuan , Zhao Yu , Zhu Li , Yu Shuqin
Published: June 2014

To improve the stability and oral bioavailability of Z-ligustilide (LIG), the inclusion complex of LIG with hydroxypropyl- β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) was prepared by the kneading method and characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, differential thermal analysis (DTA) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. LIG is capable of forming an inclusion complex with HP-b-CD and the stoichiometry of the complex was 1:1. Stability of the inclusion complex against temperature and light was greatly enhanced compared to that of free LIG. Further, oral bioavailability of LIG and the inclusion complex in rats were studied and the plasma drug concentration-time curves fitted well with the non-compartment model to estimate the absolute bioavailability, which was 7.5 and 35.9 %, respectively. In conclusion, these results show that LIG/HP-β-CD complexation can be of great use for increasing the stability and biological efficacy of LIG
In vivo human skin penetration of (–)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate from topical formulations
Authors: Scalia Santo , Trotta Valentina , Bianchi Anna
Published: June 2014

The aim of the study was to examine the effect of topical vehicles on the in vivo human stratum corneum penetration of the antioxidant and skin photoprotective agent (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). Model oil-in-water (o/w) emulsion and gel formulations containing 1 % (m/m) EGCG were prepared and subjected to photodegradation studies in order to select excipients that minimize the light instability of EGCG. The optimized emulsion and gel were applied to human volunteers and the EGCG percutaneous permeation was evaluated in vivo by the tape- -stripping technique. No significant differences in the percentage of the applied EGCG dose diffused into the stratum corneum were observed between the o/w emulsion (36.1 ± 7.5 %) and gel (35.5 ± 8.1 %) preparations. However, the amount of EGCG permeated into the deeper region of human stratum corneum was significantly larger for the o/w emulsion compared to the gel. Therefore, the emulsion represents a suitable vehicle for topical delivery of EGCG.
Screening for impact of popular herbs improving mental abilities on the transcriptional level of brain transporters
Authors: Mrozikiewicz Przemyslaw M. , Bogacz Anna , Bartkowiak-Wieczorek Joanna , Kujawski Radoslaw , Mikolajczak Przemyslaw L. , Ozarowski Marcin , Czerny Boguslaw , Mrozikiewicz-Rakowska Beata , Grzeskowiak Edmund
Published: June 2014

There are a number of compounds that can modify the activity of ABC (ATP-binding cassette) and SLC (solute carrier) transporters in the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of natural and synthetic substances on the expression level of genes encoding transporters present in the BBB (mdr1a, mdr1b, mrp1, mrp2, oatp1a4, oatp1a5 and oatp1c1). Our results showed that verapamil caused the greatest reduction in the mRNA level while other synthetic (piracetam, phenobarbital) and natural (codeine, cyclosporine A, quercetin) substances showed a selective inhibitory effect. Further, the extract from the roots of Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer exhibited a decrease of transcription against selected transporters whereas the extract from Ginkgo biloba L. leaves resulted in an increase of the expression level of tested genes, except for mrp2. Extract from the aerial parts of Hypericum perforatum L. was the only one to cause an increased mRNA level for mdr1 and oatp1c1. These findings suggest that herbs can play an important role in overcoming the BBB and multidrug resistance to pharmacotherapy of brain cancer and mental disorders, based on the activity of selected drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters located in the BBB