bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental study of concentration of tomato juice by CO2 hydrate formation
Authors: Li Shifeng , Shen Yanming , Liu Dongbing , Fan Lihui , Tan Zhe , Zhang Zhigang , Li Wenxiu , Li Wenpeng
Published: December 2014

A new tomato juice concentration technology was presented by CO2 hydrate
formation. The CO2 hydrate equilibrium conditions were measured by isochoric
pressure search method and tomato juice concentration experiments were
carried out in a high-pressure stirred reactor. Moreover, dehydration ratio
was defined and CO2 hydrate formation rate constants were calculated with
different feed pressure. The effects of feed pressure, temperature, and juice
volume on dehydration ratio were investigated. The results show that the
tomato juice used in this work nearly has no effect on CO2 hydrate phase
equilibrium conditions, but can accelerate CO2 hydrate formation. And the
dehydration ratio increased with increasing the feed pressure from 1.81 to
3.95 MPa, the maximum dehydration ratio can reach 63.2% with feed pressure of
3.95 MPa, and the optimum tomato juice volume is 80 mL. These results
demonstrated that removal of water with the help of CO2 hydrate is an
efficient technology for tomato juice concentration.
Quantitative computed tomographic assessment of bone mineral density changes associated with administration of prednisolone or prednisolone and alendronate sodium in dogs
Authors: Park Seungjo , Oh Juyeon , Son Kyu-Yeol , Cho Kyoung-Oh , Choi Jihye
Published: December 2014

OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether a low-dosage regimen of prednisolone induces bone loss and whether administration of alendronate sodium prevents glucocorticoid-induced osteopenia in dogs by measuring trabecular bone mineral density (BMD) with quantitative CT.

ANIMALS 8 healthy Beagles.

PROCEDURES In 4 dogs, prednisolone was administered PO at a dosage of 2 mg/kg once daily for 2 weeks, 1 mg/kg once daily for 4 weeks, and 0.5 mg/kg once daily for 3 weeks. In the other 4 dogs, alendronate sodium (2 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h) was whether administered for 9 weeks in addition to the same dosage of prednisolone used in the prednisolone-treated dogs. Before (day 0 [baseline]) and 21, 42, 63, and 150 days after the start of treatment, BMD of the lumbar vertebrae was measured by quantitative CT.

RESULTS BMD in the prednisolone treatment group decreased to 84.7% of the baseline value on day 42, increased to 87.9% on day 63, and recovered to 91.6% on day 150. In the prednisolone-alendronate treatment group, BMD decreased to 91% of the baseline value on day 21, increased to 93.8% on day 63, and then recovered to 96.7% on day 150. Bone mineral density in the prednisolone treatment group was generally lower, albeit not significantly, than that of the prednisolone-alendronate treatment group on each examination day.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE BMD temporarily decreased after low-dosage prednisolone administration; however, it gradually improved during tapering of the prednisolone dosage. These results have suggested that a low dosage of prednisolone can be used with little concern for development of osteopenia in dogs.
A Study of co-existence between the Hubble flow and the random alignments of spin vectors of SDSS galaxies
Authors: Yadav Shiv Narayan , Saurer Walter , Aryal Binil
Published: December 2014

We present a study of spin vector orientation of 14,118 SDSS (Sloan Digital Sky Survey) galaxies having redshift in the range 0.19 to 0.20 (radial velocity 57,000 km/s to 60,000 km/s) with respect to galactic coordinate system using 7th data release (2008, October). These galaxies were observed through SDSS telescope of Apache Point Observatory located at New Mexico, USA. The photometric database is made available through our collaboration with institute of Astro-particle physics, Innsbruck University, Austria. We used the `Godlowskian' method to convert two dimensional data to three dimensional galaxy rotation axes. Our intension is to find out non-random effects in the spatial orientation of galaxies and to check  redshift dependence. The expected isotropy distribution curves are obtained by removing the selection effects and performing a random simulation method. The observed and expected polar and azimuthal angle distributions are compared by using three statistical tests- chi-square, auto-correlation and the Fourier. It is found that the spatial orientation of galaxies tend to be oriented randomly with respect to the galactic coordinate system, supporting hierarchy model of galaxy evolution. In few cases we noticed a preference, probably due to the gravitational shearing or tidal effects in the large scale structure. In general, redshift is found to be independent of orientation. Hence, a very good correlation between the Hubble flow (redshift) and the random alignments of spin vectors of SDSS galaxies is noticed.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v12i0.11787BIBECHANA 12 (2015) 114-127
Thanks to reviewers
Authors: Adhikari Devendra
Published: December 2014

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v12i0.11796BIBECHANA 12 (2015)
Comparison of surgical outcomes of Ultrasonic technique (Harmonic Focus™) with Conventional technique in open hemithyroidectomy
Authors: Regmi Deepak , KC Toran , Bista Meera , Shrestha Sangita
Published: December 2014

Background: The option for dissection and haemostasis during thyroid surgery include either the modern ultrasonic technology (Harmonic Focus™) or the conventional technique using knot and ties, monopolar or bipolar electrocautery. Comparison between the surgical outcomes of open hemithyroidectomy using these two modalities was done.Objective: To compare the surgical outcomes of ultrasonic technique using Harmonic Focus™ (HS) with Conventional technique (CT) in open hemithyoidectomy.Method: Twenty consecutive patients undergoing open hemithyroidectomy for benign solitary thyroid nodule of ≤ 3 cm were randomly assigned into two groups; group HS (n=10) and group CT (n=10). Analysis of surgical outcomes performed by these two techniques, particularly: operative time, intra-operative blood loss, post operative pain, incision size, complications and hospital stay were done.Results: The age, sex and pathologies were comparable in both the groups. For the group HS, mean operative time was (mean ± SD=55 ± 5 min) 15 minutes shorter than group CT (mean ± SD= 70 ± 10 min) (P<0.01). Mean operative blood loss was (mean ± SD=20 ±10 ml) 16 ml less in group HS than CT (mean ± SD= 36 ±12 ml) (P<0.01). The group HS experienced less post operative pain (mean ± SD=4 ± 0.94 VAS) than CT (mean ± SD= 7 ± 0.81 VAS) (P<0.001). The incision size at the time of skin closure was 1.6 cm shorter in group HS ((mean ± SD= 3.95 ±0.61 vs. 5.5 ± 0.78cm) (P<0.01). Hospital stay (mean ± SD= 2.30 ± 0.48 vs. 4.20 ±0.42 days) was statistically significant (P<0.01) in group HS than CT. There were no major complications.Conclusion: In patients undergoing open hemithyroidectomy, HS is a faster, better cosmetic, safe and less morbid tool than CT. Its use reduces operative time, blood loss, post operative pain, scar size, along with hospital stay.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jkmc.v2i4.11774  Journal of Kathmandu Medical CollegeVol. 2, No. 4, Issue 6, Oct.-Dec., 2013Page: 175-180
Statistical Analysis of Aircraft–Bird Strikes Resulting in Engine Failure
Authors: Avrenli Kivanc A. , Dempsey Barry J.
Published: December 2014

Engine failure caused by bird strikes can be particularly perilous for today's typical twin-engine aircraft. Although large-bird populations have increased substantially since the 1970s, modern-day turbofan engines are not tested for large birds. Instead, it is acceptable for contemporary turbofan engines to lose all power because of large-bird ingestion. With the increasing use of turbofan engines and air traffic, not only are more bird strikes expected in the near future, but also more bird strikes are anticipated to result in engine failure. This study identified the factors that were statistically associated with the probability of engine failure in the event of a bird strike. A large sample of more than 42,000 U.S. bird strikes was used. The missing data in the sample were multiply imputed by using an approximate Bayesian bootstrap method. With the multiply imputed data, 15 factors were statistically analyzed. Six of those factors were found to be significantly associated with the probability of engine failure in the event of a bird strike: altitude above ground level, bird size, number of birds struck, flight phase, daylight conditions, and sky conditions. A logistic regression model was developed, and a detailed probabilistic interpretation of the model is given for practitioners. By using the findings, aviation authorities can improve bird strike hazard mitigation strategies, flight crews can reduce the potential of bird strikes resulting in engine failure, and researchers can better understand the nature of bird strikes and develop a scientific approach to minimize the likelihood of engine failure in the event of a bird strike.
Simulation Study on Impacts of High Aviation Carbon Taxes on Tourism
Authors: Van Cranenburgh Sander , Chorus Caspar G. , van Wee Bert
Published: December 2014

Aviation carbon taxes have occasionally been debated as a measure to curb aviation carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. This paper presents a simulation study on the effects of high aviation carbon taxes on tourism and its related CO2 emissions. The paper investigates the scenario in which, as a result of high aviation carbon taxes, air fares increase by 50%. To assess such impacts, choice probabilities of vacation alternatives, which were conceptualized as portfolios consisting of a destination, mode of transport, accommodation type, and length of stay, were simulated by using a portfolio vacation choice model. Lower and upper bounds of the impacts were derived. Simulation results suggested that a substantial reduction of the contribution of tourism travel to anthropogenic climate change could be achieved. Tourism travel-related CO2-equivalent emissions were estimated to drop between 9% and 32%. Furthermore, it was found that the choice probability of nearby destinations (<200 km) increased considerably: between 4% and 18%. It was also found that the choice probability of short vacations (<1 week) also increased considerably: between 3% and 11%.
Use of Air Passenger Survey Data in Forecasting Air Travel Demand
Authors: Gosling Geoffrey D.
Published: December 2014

Econometric models of air travel demand are an essential tool in the preparation of air travel forecasts that form the basis for a wide range of planning activities in air transportation and airport operation and development. However, most air travel demand models attempt to predict aggregate demand for air travel and do not consider differences in the use of air travel across different segments of the population or how changes in economic factors or the way in which air service is provided affect different types of air trip differently. The paper addresses the need for a more disaggregate approach to understanding how travel propensity varies across different segments of the population or how the characteristics of air travelers vary across different markets and examines the potential role of air passenger surveys in meeting this need. The paper reviews the factors that may influence air travel propensity, describes the information on air traveler characteristics that is typically collected in air passenger surveys, and presents an analysis of the variation in air travel propensity with household income and composition, on the basis of data from a recent air passenger survey performed in the San Francisco Bay Area in California. The paper concludes with some recommendations for improving access to air passenger survey data to support further research into these issues.
Human Reliability Analysis for Visual Inspection in Aviation Maintenance by a Bayesian Network Approach
Authors: Chen Wei , Huang Shuping
Published: December 2014

Visual inspection plays an important role in aviation maintenance. Human reliability analysis (HRA) in this field is necessary and can bring benefits to better human error management. Because of the lack of safety data, the present paper aims to introduce the Bayesian network (BN) approach to perform HRA in visual inspection, which permits the utilization of multi-disciplinary sources of objective and subjective information. In this paper, significant influence factors of visual inspection are identified according to the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System–Maintenance Extension. Then a network representing the visual inspection performance model is constructed. Expert opinions, data fusion from accident reports, and related literature are utilized in the step of obtaining parameters. Two canonical models used in probabilistic network model building, the Noisy-OR gates and the Recursive Noisy-OR rule, are applied to generate conditional probabilities from parameters obtained by the absolute probability judgment technique. Through the BN inference, the inspection reliability can be assessed, and some conclusions and recommendations are drawn that could provide theoretical base and data support to make interventions for safety management of visual inspection.
Repeated Apneas and Hypercapnic Ventilatory Response Before and After Apnea Training
Authors: Bourdas Dimitrios I. , Tsakiris Theodoros S. , Pavlakis Konstantinos I. , Triantafillou Despoina V. , Geladas Nickos D.
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND: Habitual exposure to carbon dioxide (CO2) is expected, but it is not proven, to dull ventilatory sensitivity to co2 by reducing hypercapnic ventilatory response (HCVR) as it is expressed by the slope of the derived response curve (CO2
sensitivity: VE/Petco2). It was hypothesized that HCVR is decreased by repeated breath hold maximal efforts (RBHE) before and after apnea training in comparison with no training and the control condition.METHODS: Two groups of breath holders, a control
(CBH) group and novices to breath hold activities (NBH), visited the laboratory on four different occasions. In the first visit, subjects performed a HCVR test, whereas in the second visit they completed five successive RBHE separated by 2-min intervals. Another HCVR test was performed 2 min
after cessation of the last apnea. For the next 14 d, only the NBH group trained by performing daily five RBHE separated by 2-min intervals. Subsequently, in a third and a fourth condition, subjects repeated the experimental protocol of the second and first visit.RESULTS: Although
breath hold time (BHT) increased after apnea training in the NBH group by 46%, CO2 sensitivity slopes were not different among experimental conditions and groups (2.8 0.3, 2.9 0.4 L min1 mmHg1 in the CBH and 2.7 0.5, 2.7 0.3 L min1 mmHg1
in the NBH during the second and third visit, respectively).CONCLUSION: HCVR after five RBHE or 14 d of apnea training was not decreased despite the achieved BHT enhancement. Hypercapnic dullness of ventilation is a complex biological process which takes more than 14 d of training
to develop.Bourdas DI, Tsakiris TS, Pavlakis KI, Triantafillou DV, Geladas ND. Repeated apneas and hypercapnic ventilatory response before and after apnea training. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(1):2733.
Pneumocephalus and Neurosurgery in Rotary Aircrew
Authors: Ruddick Benjamin , Tomlin Jeffrey
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND: Pneumocephalus secondary to trauma or tumors can have varied symptom severity. It is important to recognize and quantify pneumocephalus for medical evacuation and treatment. This case presents current recommendations for travel in the literature and how they are applicable
in returning to flying duties after neurosurgical interventions.CASE REPORT: This is the case of a Naval aircrew member who developed an osteoma and subsequently periorbital emphysema and pneumocephalus. This required medical evacuation from a remote territory, a team surgical approach,
and later testing to allow him to return to flight duties in rotary aircraft.DISCUSSION: A search of the literature did not reveal any previous cases of civilian or military flight crew having returned to flying duties after pneumocephalus or neurosurgery. Barometric chamber testing
was performed post-operatively to provide clearance. Literature review revealed mixed advice on when one can safely fly commercially after neurosurgery and may be applicable in a case series of medical evacuation or future clearance in returning to flight duties.Ruddick B, Tomlin J. Pneumocephalus
and neurosurgery in rotary aircrew. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(1):59–61.
Intraocular and Intracranial Pressures During Head-Down Tilt with Lower Body Negative Pressure
Authors: Macias Brandon R. , Liu John H. K. , Grande-Gutierrez Noelia , Hargens Alan R.
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND: Seven astronauts after 6-mo missions to the International Space Station showed unexpected vision problems. Lumbar punctures performed in the four astronauts with optic disc edema showed moderate elevations of cerebral spinal fluid pressure after returning to Earth.
We hypothesized that lower body negative pressure (LBNP) imposed during head-down tilt (HDT) would reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) and transcranial ultrasound pulse amplitude, a noninvasive intracranial pressure (ICP) surrogate.METHODS: Participating in this study were 25 normal
healthy nonsmoking volunteers (mean age: 36 yr). Subjects were positioned supine (5 min), sitting (5 min), 15° whole body HDT (5 min), and 10 min of HDT with LBNP (25 mmHg). The order of HDT and HDT+LBNP tests was balanced. Right and left IOP, transcranial ultrasound pulse amplitude, arm
blood pressure, and heart rate were measured during the last minute (steady state) of each testing condition.RESULTS: IOP significantly decreased from supine to sitting posture by 3.2 ± 1.4 mmHg (mean ± SD: N = 25), and increased by 0.9 ± 1.3 mmHg from
supine to the HDT position. LBNP during HDT significantly lowered IOP to supine levels. In addition, LBNP significantly reduced transcranial ultrasound pulse amplitudes by 38% as compared to the HDT condition (N = 9). Sitting mean blood pressure (BP) was significantly higher (+5 mmHg)
than BP values after 10 min of LBNP during HDT. However, heart rate was not significantly different across all conditions.DISCUSSION: These data suggest that short duration exposures to LBNP attenuate HDT-induced increases in IOP and ICP.Macias BR, Liu JHK, Grande-Gutierrez
N, Hargens AR. Intraocular and intracranial pressures during head-down tilt with lower body negative pressure. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(1):3–7.
Dodecafluoropentane (DDFPe) and Decompression Sickness-Related Mortality in Rats
Authors: Sheppard Ryan L. , Regis David P. , Mahon Richard T.
Published: December 2014

INTRODUCTION: Perfluorocarbon (PFC) formulations can be a useful adjunct treatment for decompression sickness (DCS) when staged decompression procedures cannot be followed due to time constraints or lack of equipment. The benefit of PFC treatment is believed to result from its
ability to transport more dissolved gas than can be transported by blood alone. Dodecylfluoropentane (DDFPe) is a unique nanodroplet compound that expands into a gaseous state when exposed to physiological temperatures, resulting in a higher dissolved gas-carrying capacity than standard PFC
formulations.METHODS: We investigated the efficacy of DDFPe in reducing morbidity and mortality in a rat model of severe DCS. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (250-280 g) were compressed to 210 fsw for 60 min before rapid decompression. Animals were immediately injected with 2% DDFPe (0.07
ml · kg−1, 0.5 ml · kg−1, 1.0 ml · kg−1) or saline, and were transferred to a 100% O2 environment for 30 min.RESULTS: Of the animals in the saline group, 47% (18/38) did not survive the decompression
event, while ∼98% (46/47) of the animals in the DDFPe group did not survive. Of the animals that died during the observation period, the saline group survived on average 89% longer than DDFPe treated animals. Seizures occurred in 42% of the DDFPe group vs. 16% in the saline group. Histological
analysis revealed the presence of large, multifocal gas emboli in the liver and heart of DDFPe treated animals.CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that DDFPe is not an effective nonrecompressive treatment for DCS in rodents.Sheppard RL, Regis DP, Mahon RT. Dodecafluoropentane (DDFPe)
and decompression sickness-related mortality in rats. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(1):21–26.
Excessive Iron and Weightlessness Effects on the Femurs and Livers of Rats
Authors: Wang Aidong , Zang Jiachen , Wang Jing , Nie Guangjun , Zhao Guanghua , Chen Bin
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND: Weightlessness results in negative physiological changes. Excessive iron in organisms likewise leads to numerous damages. In this study, we investigated the effect of a combination of iron overload and weightlessness simulated by tail-suspending on rats.METHODS:
Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: control (CON), iron overload (IO), simulated weightlessness (SW), and iron overload plus simulated weightlessness (IO+SW). After the experiment, the rats were evaluated through routine blood, serum ferritin, histology, and micro-computed
tomography analyses.RESULTS: As compared to CON, a combination of IO and SW resulted in a 15.9% loss of rat bodyweight versus treatment with each alone (3.3% in IO, 11.7% in SW group). Although iron overload is mainly responsible for an increase in hemoglobin (4.7% in IO the group)
and serum ferritin (71.7% in IO group) concentration, simulated weightlessness facilitates such increase (5.3% and 118.4% in IO + SW group, respectively). Similarly, iron overload resulted in severe iron deposition on the liver and spleen, and the deposition became more serious in the combined
model. In contrast, the simulated weightlessness is mainly responsible for the damage to the femur.DISCUSSION: All the results demonstrated that the combined conditions exhibited a significantly different effect on rats from those with either simulated weightlessness or iron overload
alone, and that these different effects are organ-dependent.Wang A, Zang J, Wang J, Nie G, Zhao G, Chen B. Excessive iron and weightlessness effects on the femurs and livers of rats. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(1):8–14.
End Tidal CO2 in Recreational Rebreather Divers on Surfacing After Decompression Dives
Authors: Mitchell Simon J. , Mesley Peter , Hannam Jacqueline A.
Published: December 2014

INTRODUCTION: Deep dives using rebreather devices result in oxygen exposures that carry a risk of cerebral oxygen toxicity. Elevation of arterial CO2 levels increases this risk. CO2 retention may occur during the deep working phases of dives, but it has
not been investigated in ‘real world’ dives at the end of resting decompression when oxygen exposures are peaking, often to levels higher than recommended maxima.METHODS: We conducted an observational field study to measure end tidal CO2 (Petco2)
in divers surfacing after decompression. Sixteen rebreather divers conducted two dives and two completed one dive (a total of 34 dives) to depths ranging from 44–55 msw. Bottom times ranged from 35 to 56 min and time spent on decompression ranged from 40 to 92 min. The first breaths
on reaching the surface after removing the rebreather mouthpiece were taken through a portable capnograph. The Petco2 was recorded for the first breath that produced a clean capnography trace. Petco2 measurement was repeated for each subject 2–3
h after diving to give paired observations.RESULTS: There were no differences between mean surfacing Petco2 [36.8 mmHg (SD 3.0)] and the mean Petco2 made later after diving [36.9 mmHg (SD 4.0)]. One subject on one dive returned a surfacing
Petco2 higher than a nominal upper limit of 45 mmHg.DISCUSSION: We found no general tendency to CO2 retention during decompression. It is plausible that breaching oxygen exposure limits during resting decompression is less hazardous than equivalent
breaches when exercising at deep depths.Mitchell SJ, Mesley P, Hannam JA. End tidal CO2 in recreational rebreather divers on surfacing after decompression dives. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(1):41–45.
Plasma Levels of Dimethylarginines in Preterm Very Low Birth Weight Neonates: Its Relation with Perinatal Factors and Short-Term Outcome
Authors: Moonen Rob , Huizing Maurice , Cavallaro Giacomo , González-Luis Gema , Bas-Suárez Pilar , Bakker Jaap , Villamor Eduardo
Published: December 2014

Endogenously produced inhibitors of nitric oxide (NO) synthase, in particular asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), are currently considered of importance in various disease states characterized by reduced NO availability. We investigated the association between plasma levels of ADMA, symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), l-arginine, and citrulline and perinatal factors and outcome in 130 preterm (gestational age ≤30 weeks) very low birth weight (VLBW, <1500 g) infants. Plasma samples were collected 6–12 h after birth. We did not find significant correlations between ADMA, SDMA, l-arginine, and citrulline levels and gestational age or birth weight. However, the arginine:ADMA ratio (AAR, a better indicator of NO availability than either arginine or ADMA separately) was positively correlated with gestational age. ADMA and arginine levels were not significantly different between males and females but males showed a negative correlation between ADMA levels and gestational age. Perinatal factors such as preeclampsia, chrorioamnionitis, prolonged rupture of membranes, or form of delivery did not significantly alter dimethylarginine levels or AAR. In contrast, the AAR was significantly reduced in the infants with respiratory distress, mechanical ventilation, and systemic hypotension Therefore, our data suggest that altered NO availability may play a role in the respiratory and cardiovascular adaptation in preterm VLBW infants.
The Regulation of Nitric Oxide Synthase Isoform Expression in Mouse and Human Fallopian Tubes: Potential Insights for Ectopic Pregnancy
Authors: Hu Junting , Ma Shulan , Zou Sien , Li Xin , Cui Peng , Weijdegård Birgitta , Wu Gencheng , Shao Ruijin , Billig Håkan , Feng Yi
Published: December 2014

Nitric oxide (NO) is highly unstable and has a half-life of seconds in buffer solutions. It is synthesized by NO-synthase (NOS), which has been found to exist in the following three isoforms: neuro nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). NOS activity is localized in the reproductive tracts of many species, although direct evidence for NOS isoforms in the Fallopian tubes of mice is still lacking. In the present study, we investigated the expression and regulation of NOS isoforms in the mouse and human Fallopian tubes during the estrous and menstrual cycles, respectively. We also measured isoform expression in humans with ectopic pregnancy and in mice treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Our results confirmed the presence of different NOS isoforms in the mouse and human Fallopian tubes during different stages of the estrous and menstrual cycles and showed that iNOS expression increased in the Fallopian tubes of women with ectopic pregnancy and in LPS-treated mice. Elevated iNOS activity might influence ovulation, cilia beats, contractility, and embryo transportation in such a manner as to increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy. This study has provided morphological and molecular evidence that NOS isoforms are present and active in the human and mouse Fallopian tubes and suggests that iNOS might play an important role in both the reproductive cycle and infection-induced ectopic pregnancies.
3β-O-Tigloylmelianol from Guarea kunthiana: A New Potential Agent to Control Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, a Cattle Tick of Veterinary Significance
Authors: Miguita Carlos , Barbosa Carolina , Hamerski Lidilhone , Sarmento Ulana , Nascimento José , Garcez Walmir , Garcez Fernanda
Published: December 2014

Chemical investigation of Guarea kunthiana fruits, guided by their effect on the reproductive cycle of engorged females of the cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus—a major economic problem to the livestock industry worldwide—led to isolation of 3β-O-tigloylmelianol, a new protolimonoid, from the bioactive hexane phase obtained by partitioning the crude ethanol extract. An adult immersion test was performed. The compound strongly inhibited egg-laying and hatchability (99.2% effectiveness at a 0.01% concentration). Melianone, isolated from the same phase, yielded unremarkable results in the adult immersion test. From the dichloromethane phase, melianol, melianodiol, meliantriol, and a new protolimonoid, 3β-O-tigloylmeliantriol, were isolated, all of which, in the same manner as melianone, exhibited unremarkable results in the test. The structures of new and known compounds were mostly established by 1D- and 2D-NMR analyses and mass spectrometry data. This is the first report on the bioactivity of protolimonoids on the reproductive cycle of engorged females of R. (B.) microplus. 3β-O-Tigloylmelianol proved a promising candidate for the development of a biocontrol agent against the cattle tick investigated, as an alternative to environmentally hazardous synthetic acaricides.
Xanthones from the Roots of Moutabea guianensis Aubl.
Authors: Filho Haroldo , Pacheco Luidi , Andrade Edinaldo , Correa Marivaldo , Araújo Railda , Guilhon Giselle , Silva Joyce , Santos Lourivaldo
Published: December 2014

The phytochemical investigation of Moutabea guianensis roots led to the isolation of five polyoxygenated xanthones, including two new ones named moutabeone B (1,8-dihydroxy-4,5,6,7-tetramethoxyxanthone) and moutabeone C (1-hydroxy-4,5,6,7,8-pentamethoxyxanthone), along with the three known xanthones, 1,8-dihydroxy-4,6-dimethoxyxanthone, 1,8-dihydroxy-4,5,6-trimethoxyxanthone and augustin A (1,8-dihydroxy-4,6,7-trimethoxyxanthone). Structural characterization of all compounds was established on the basis of spectroscopic methods, mainly 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and comparison with literature data. The antioxidant activity of compounds was tested through a thin layer chromatography (TLC) bioautography assay using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl radical (DPPH·) as detection reagent. All tested compounds were more active (DL < 0.13–0.03 µg) than Trolox (DL < 0.15 µg), used as reference standard.
One Single Molecule as a Multifunctional Fluorescent Probe for Ratiometric Sensing of Fe3+, Cr3+ and Colorimetric Sensing of Cu2+
Authors: Yang Yanqiu , Yu Kangkang , Yang Liang , Liu Jun , Li Kun , Luo Shunzhong
Published: December 2014

The reagent Rh-C, incorporating a rhodamine moiety and a coumarin backbone and prepared via click chemistry, was developed as the first single molecule for detecting Cu2+, Fe3+ and Cr3+. Its response to Cu2+ in different solutions is visible to the naked eye and it exhibits a ratiometric fluorescence response to Fe3+ in methanol and Cr3+ in acetonitrile.
Analysis of Latency Performance of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Networks
Authors: Cho Keuchul , Park Woojin , Hong Moonki , Park Gisu , Cho Wooseong , Seo Jihoon , Han Kijun
Published: December 2014

Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is a short-range wireless communication technology aiming at low-cost and low-power communication. The performance evaluation of classical Bluetooth device discovery have been intensively studied using analytical modeling and simulative methods, but these techniques are not applicable to BLE, since BLE has a fundamental change in the design of the discovery mechanism, including the usage of three advertising channels. Recently, there several works have analyzed the topic of BLE device discovery, but these studies are still far from thorough. It is thus necessary to develop a new, accurate model for the BLE discovery process. In particular, the wide range settings of the parameters introduce lots of potential for BLE devices to customize their discovery performance. This motivates our study of modeling the BLE discovery process and performing intensive simulation. This paper is focused on building an analytical model to investigate the discovery probability, as well as the expected discovery latency, which are then validated via extensive experiments. Our analysis considers both continuous and discontinuous scanning modes. We analyze the sensitivity of these performance metrics to parameter settings to quantitatively examine to what extent parameters influence the performance metric of the discovery processes.
Repeated Administrations of Human Umbilical Cord Blood Cells Improve Disease Outcomes in a Mouse Model of Sanfilippo Syndrome Type III B
Authors: Willing Alison E. , Garbuzova-Davis Svitlana N. , Zayko Olga , Derasari Hiranya M. , Rawls Ashley E. , James Chris R. , Mervis Ron F. , Sanberg Cyndy D. , Kuzmin-Nichols Nicole , Sanberg Paul R.
Published: December 2014

Sanfilippo syndrome type III B (MPS III B) is an inherited disorder characterized by a deficiency of α- N-acetylglucosaminidase (Naglu) enzyme leading to accumulation of heparan sulfate in lysosomes and severe neurological deficits. We have previously shown that a single administration of human umbilical cord mononuclear cells (hUCB MNCs) into Naglu knockout mice decreased behavioral abnormalities and tissue pathology. In this study, we tested whether repeated doses of hUCB MNCs would be more beneficial than a single dose of cells. Naglu mice at 3 months of age were randomly assigned to either a Media-only group or one of three hUCB MNC treatment groups-single low dose (3 × 106 cells), single high dose (1.8 × 107 cells), or multiple doses (3 × 106 cells monthly for 6 months) delivered intravenously; cyclosporine was injected intraperitoneally to immune suppress the mice for the duration of the study. An additional control group of wild-type mice was also used. We measured anxiety in an open field test and cognition in an active avoidance test prior to treatment and then at monthly intervals for 6 months. hUCB MNCs restored normal anxiety-like behavior in these mice ( p< 0.001). The repeated cell administrations also restored hippocampal cytoarchitecture, protected the dendritic tree, decreased GM3 ganglioside accumulation, and decreased microglial activation, particularly in the hippocampus and cortex. These data suggest that the neuroprotective effect of hUCB MNCs can be enhanced by repeated cell administrations.
APPLICATION OF PROJECT-BASED CHANGE MANAGEMENT IN CONSTRUCTION: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Chen Chun-Sung , Tsui Yu-Kun , Dzeng Ren-Jye , Wang Wei-Chih
Published: December 2014

Real-time information is vital to enhance dynamic control and management via information sharing and analysis in order to reduce construction conflicts and project delays. However, most construction project management programs are ineffective for project prompt responses, especially with respect to change management. This work presents a novel construction project management system called the web project-based change management (WPCM) system. The WPCM system responds to changes in information efficiently in order to facilitate change management among project participants (e.g. general contractor, suppliers, and subcontractors) in a construction project environment. Capable of increasing information sharing in construction change management, web-based technology can also provide cost savings via the Internet. A case study involving a commercial building project in Taiwan demonstrates the effectiveness of both the proposed WPCM system and information sharing in change control during the construction phase. In addition to increasing the efficiency of change control and management for a general contractor, as well as dynamic project tracking and management, the proposed system enables subcontractors and suppliers to access and manage the change information timely. Future work should implement the system functions comprehensively and apply the system to additional projects more strictly for further verification of its reliability.
THE NEXT-GENERATION CONSTITUTIVE CORRELATIONS FOR SIMULATION OF CYCLIC STRESS-STRAIN BEHAVIOUR OF SAND
Authors: Shahnazari Habib , Dehnavi Yasser , Alavi Amir H.
Published: December 2014

This paper presents an innovate approach to simulate the stress-strain behaviour of sands subjected to large amplitude regular cyclic loading. New prediction correlations were derived for damping ratio (D) and shear modulus (G) of sand utilizing linear genetic programming (LGP) methodology. The correlations were developed using several cyclic torsional simple shear test results. In order to formulate D and G, new equations were developed to simulate hysteresis strain–stress curves and maximum shear stress (τmax) at different loading cycles. A genetic algorithm analysis was per­formed to optimize the parameters of the proposed formulation for stress-strain relationship. A total of 746 records were extracted from the simple shear test results to develop the τmax predictive model. Sensitivity and parametric analyses were conducted to verify the results. To investigate the applicability of the models, they were employed to simulate the stress-strain curves of portions of test results that were not included in the analysis. The LGP method precisely charac­terizes the complex hysteresis behaviour of sandy soils resulting in a very good prediction performance. The proposed design equations may be used by designers as efficient tools to determine D and G, specifically when laboratory testing is not possible.
PREDICTING TELECOMMUNICATION TOWER COSTS USING FUZZY SUBTRACTIVE CLUSTERING
Authors: Marzouk Mohamed , Alaraby Mohamed
Published: December 2014

This paper presents a fuzzy subtractive modelling technique to predict the weight of telecommunication towers which is used to estimate their respective costs. This is implemented through the utilization of data from previously installed telecommunication towers considering four input parameters: a) tower height; b) allowed tilt or deflection; c) antenna subjected area loading; and d) wind load. Telecommunication towers are classified according to designated code (TIA-222-F and TIA-222-G standards) and structures type (Self-Supporting Tower (SST) and Roof Top (RT)). As such, four fuzzy subtractive models are developed to represent the four classes. To build the fuzzy models, 90% of data are utilized and fed to Matlab software as training data. The remaining 10% of the data are utilized to test model performance. Sugeno-Type first order is used to optimize model performance in predicting tower weights. Errors are estimated using Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) for both training and testing data sets. Sensitivity analysis is carried to validate the model and observe the effect of clusters’ radius on models performance.
ALIGNMENT OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT WITH BUSINESS STRATEGY IN CONSTRUCTION: EVIDENCE FROM THE TURKISH CONTRACTORS
Authors: Budayan Cenk , Dikmen Irem , Birgonul M. Talat
Published: December 2014

The importance of fit between an organization’s implementation of project management (PM), and its business level strategy is emphasized in the literature. However, there are a limited number of studies investigating the relationship between business level strategy and implementation of PM in the construction industry. This paper aligns one of the business strategies, namely differentiation, with the PM process. A framework representing differentiation in the construction industry is proposed in this study. Structural equation modelling (SEM) is used to validate the relationship between differentiation and the PM process. The results show that a relationship between differentiation strategy and PM exists. The two types of differentiation are revealed, namely “product variety and speed-related differentiation” (PSD) and “quality and image-related differentiation” (QID). The companies trying to differentiate based on PSD should focus on cost, time and quality management. Change management and project planning are identified as important drivers of differentiation based on PSD. On the other hand, the companies trying to differentiate on QID should consider health, safety and environmental issues as well as quality. Companies should also manage their resources effectively to support the PM process that in turn leads to successful differentiation. Companies can utilize the research findings as a guideline while formulating their differentiation strategies.
THE PATTERN MAKING OF MEGA-SLUMS ON SEMANTICS IN SLUM URBAN CULTURES
Authors: Zappulla Carmelo , Suau Cristian , Fikfak Alenka
Published: December 2014

Mega-slums are dynamic laboratories for urban pattern making. Instead of surveying about stable urban symbols represented by formal orders and regular geometries, this study explores the semantic meaning of informal urbanism associated with chaos or randomness and often ignored by critique and conventions. Slums are forms of ‘instant urbanity’ that underscore alternative ways of self-organisation, which include bottom-up strategies, autonomous urban dynamics and spatial activation by remaking. Are slum patterns representing a lack of symbolism or, on contrary, rich, complex, and fluid urban idioms? Urban informality without planning offers immense opportunities to investigate resilient urban forms and languages as complex systems throughout self-ruled structures. Slums are not only the result of urban economic asymmetries and social marginalisation but the elementary construction of survival urbanism, a randomised, agile and transformative pattern system. Slum making is a form of subsistence urbanity that constructs transitory, elusive or spontaneous geometries. They differ in sizes, magnitudes and geometries regarding cultural, climatic and topographic conditions. Slums are unstable systems in continuous transformation. This essay questions the stigmatisation of informalised urban patterns as ‘other’ unclassified codes by analysing a selection of twenty mega-slums in the Americas, Africa and Asia regarding semantics, urban and geometrical meanings. Their urban tissues contain various symbols that activate the every-day production of spaces. They can be visible or invisible; passive or active; and formal or informal. A taxonomic tree of slums was developed to compare and map slum regions to describe similarities and differences among the selected case studies. From this analysis, a profound discourse appeared between informal settlements: tissue-patterns at macro level and cell-patterns in micro urbanisation. Does the macro pattern inform the micro, or vice versa?
COLONNADED STREETS WITHIN THE ROMAN CITYSCAPE: A “SPATIAL” PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Rababeh Shaher , Al Rabady Rama , Abu-Khafajah Shatha
Published: December 2014

Studies tackling the Roman legacy of colonial cities and Arabian provinces are still grappling with these cities from an urban planning perspective and/or building typologies. They do not provide a ‘spatial’ analysis that allows reading the Roman cities through the features that structured its urban language; one of which is the colonnaded streets. The study adopts a holistic approach to confront the ambiguities about possible origins, uses and meanings of the Roman colonnaded streets when traced in the Roman East as well as other Western cities. Besides its utilitarian and cultural value, the colonnaded streets are nalyzed according to two interrelated interpretations: astrological interpretation to represent an empire of astral divinity and performative interpretation to represent an empire of imperial power. The colonnaded streets is transformed from a ‘line on site’ into a ‘line of sight’ that testifies to the social norms of the Roman people but also to their ideologies, beliefs, and aspirations.
Preparing Students for the Emotional Challenges of Nursing: An Integrative Review
Authors: Dwyer Patricia A. , Hunter Revell Susan M.
Published: December 2014

A gap exists between how nurse educators teach nursing students to identify and manage the emotional challenges of nursing and nurses’ experiences after they enter practice. An integrative review was conducted to synthesize the literature on how nurse educators prepare students for the emotional challenges of practice. The literature (
n
= 14) revealed that the concept “emotional challenges of nursing” lacks a clear definition and conceptual clarity. Reflection was a common element found in the educational approaches identified. Research was directed at qualitatively exploring students’ subjective experiences, and most researchers did not address educational outcomes beyond subjective perceptions. Although the authors recognized the importance of teaching in the affective domain, research that used a quantitative experimental design (
n
= 1) was scarce. A research agenda, including intervention studies, is needed to support the development of evidence-based teaching pedagogies to prepare students for the emotional challenges of practice. [
J Nurs Educ
. 2015;54(1):7–12.]
IN VITROCHARACTERIZATION OF TRAMADOL-HCL-LOADED POLYOXALATE MICROSPHERES DESIGNED FOR CONTROLLED DRUG RELEASE
Authors: Lee Cheon Jung , Kim Su Young , Lee Hyun Gu , Yang Jaewon , Park Jin Young , Lee Seon Ui , Lee Dongwon , Khang Gilson
Published: December 2014

This study evaluates the properties of Tramadol- HCl -loaded polyoxalate (TH-loaded POX) microspheres prepared by oil-in-oil (O1/O2) emulsion solvent evaporation method, specifically designed for sustained drug release. Morphology and physicochemical characteristics of the as-fabricated were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, while the encapsulation efficiency and release profile of drug (Tramadol- HCl , TH) from POX microspheres were assessed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The influence of reaction temperature, stirring speed, initial drug ratio, molecular weight (Mw) and concentration of polyoxalate (POX) on the fabrication of TH-loaded POX microspheres were investigated. Results showed that the characteristics of the microspheres and drug-loaded content can be optimized by adjusting the parameters of preparation conditions. Also, the degradation behavior of TH-loaded POX microspheres was evaluated from in vitro test for 2 weeks. Overall, the results showed that POX microsphere can be one of the promising polymers for controlled injection release formulation with site-specific drug release capabilities.
Mottos and Ethical Statements of Internet-Based Organizations
Authors: Oravec Jo Ann
Published: December 2014

Many Internet-based businesses have emerged and gained prominence in past decades; growing numbers of them have developed moral declarations in the form of mottos or ethical statements. For example, the corporate motto “don't be evil” (linked with Google) has generated considerable controversy, and Twitter and Facebook have comparable ethical pronouncements. The article analyzes how these ethical expressions have played roles in discourse on organizational activities, exploring their use in discussions of particular research, marketing, and operations situations. After addressing the origins of these mottos and statements, this article positions them in contrast with the more finely-detailed ethical codes and related initiatives that have been associated with some high-tech organizations over past decades. The article analyzes the potential influences of ethical expressions generated by organizations on corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. It projects the future of such ethical manifestations in light of critically-important privacy, security, and economic concerns faced in high-tech arenas.