bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease in Young Females
Authors: Jyotsna Maddury , Aditya Madhavapeddy , Lalitha Nemani
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: To define myocardial infarction in “young”, many studies taken < 40 to 45 yrs. of age as cut off point. We have data in young males with obstructive coronary artery disease, but limited data in young females.

OBJECTIVES: To see the disease pattern, risk factors, presentation, ventricular function and PCI efficiency of young females in comparison with young males with obstructive coronary artery disease who require PCI.

MATERIAL AND METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the data of young patients (< 45 yrs. of age) who undergone PCI over past two years. We noted the clinical, investigative and treatment modalities of these patients.

RESULTS: 200 young patients had undergone PCI for obstructive CAD with 42 females over two year period. Females had more frequently hypertension (69.1% vs. 43.7%) and Type 2 Diabetes (33.3% vs22.8%) which are statistically significant. Smoking was frequent in young males than young females. Males were presented as acute MI, whereas females with rest chest pain. Multi-vessel involvements, LV dysfunction, success of PCI and complication rates were similar in both groups. Females are more anemic (< 11 g/dl in females and < 13g/dl in males). Complexity of lesion (B2 or C type of lesions) is more in females which is statistically significant.

CONCLUSION: Young females had more frequently hypertension, Diabetes, acute coronary syndrome without MI, mild anemia, complex lesions than young males, but with same success and complication rate of PCI.
Importance of Proximal Angle in Generation of Abnormal Plaque at Coronary Bifurcation Lesions
Authors: Deepti K. , Aditya M
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Changing of linear blood flow to turbulence at branching points predisposes to development of obstructive coronary lesions. We hypothesize that in addition to bifurcation angle (BA), proximal (PA) and third angle (TA) of branching site are important in generating more vertices of blood flow.

METHODS: 65 normal and 36 significantly diseased LAD – D1, 72 normal and 27 significantly diseased LCX – OM, 73 normal and 16 significantly diseased RCA – PDA – PLV and 34 normal and 14 significantly diseased LMCA – LAD – LCX bifurcations were analyzed with QCA.

RESULTS: In LAD – D1 normal vs. significantly diseased bifurcations BA and PA were 78.2±13.2 vs. 65.1±11.3 (p <0.000) and 122.7±13.8 vs. 131.6.36±12.5 (p <0.001) respectively. In LCX – OM normal vs. significantly diseased bifurcations BA and PA were 76.8±13.6 vs. 60.7±13.8 (p=0.000) and 125.1±13.5 vs. 137.8±12.8 (p <0.000) respectively. In RCA - PDA – PLV normal vs. significantly diseased bifurcations BA, PA and TA were 91.1±13.8 vs. 71.5±15.9 (p 0.004), 113.0±14.1 vs. 128.4±20.2 (p=0.000), 118.2±21.7 vs. 133.8±12.4 (p=0.007) respectively. In LMCA –LAD – LCX normal vs. significantly diseased bifurcations BA, PA and TA were 84.0±39.1 vs. 73.0±17.6 (p >0. 32), 123.2±26.3 vs. 115.3±30.4 (p > 0.38), 130.3±27.3 vs. 137.5±33.5 (p >0.45) respectively. There was a significant difference but no correlation between the angles in normal and diseased bifurcation segment. We derived logistic regression equations for predicting the disease in different coronary bifurcations.

CONCLUSION: In LAD - D1, LCX – OM and RCA – PDA – PLV bifurcations lesser the BA, greater the PA, were more likely to develop significant lesion, which was not true in LMCA – LAD – LCX bifurcation.
Unusual Site Hemorrhagic Complications of Anticoagulantion
Authors: Kumar A.
Published: May 2018

Anticoagulation has inherent quality to produce bleeding complications, more frequently in the elderly. Usual sites following anticoagulation is gastrointestinal, nasal, intracranial hemorrhage or petechial bleed. Here were reporting unusual sites of anticoagulation induced bleed. Rectus sheath hematoma is an unusual bleeding site, can mimic acute abdomen. Bleeding into intestinal wall can produce intussusception and presentation will be again as acute abdomen. Similarly, Sub lingual space is an unexpected site of bleeding and can present as upper airway obstruction or esophageal obstruction. Here we report one case of rectal sheath hematoma, 2 cases of sublingual hematoma and one case in the intestinal wall hematoma due to oral anticoagulation.
PBTV and PBMV in a Patient with CRHD
Authors: Pechetty Ramya
Published: May 2018

Case Details

A 26 year old gentleman who is a known case of chronic rheumatic heart disease, presented with exertional breathlessness of 1 year duration. He underwent percutaneous balloon mitral valvotomy in 2004 for severe mitral stenosis. ECG showed atrial fibrillation with controlled ventricular rates. 2D Echocardiography showed severe mitral restenosis (MVA=0.8 cm2; MVG =18/12, Panel A), Organic tricuspid valve disease with severe tricuspid stenosis (TVG=13/8, Panel B) with mild tricuspid regurgitation. Balloon mitral and tricuspid valvotomy was done sequentially in this patient with Acura 28 balloon, inflated to 28mm across mitral valve and 18mm across tricuspid valve with wire in LV and RV apex respectively (Panel C and D). There was significant drop in the trans-Valvular gradients (Panel E and F). Procedure was uneventful. The post procedure course was unremarkable and the patient is doing well at one year follow up.
Role of BMS in Des ERA
Authors: Kumar C Guru , Rao Phani kotewsar
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: DES has gained significant importance in coronary interventions due to its superiority of decrease in target vessel revascularization when compared to BMS. In this DES era, we want to study the role of BMS as it is more economical.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: We have analyzed acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and chronic stable angina patients who underwent BMS implantation between January 2011 to March 2011 under government health scheme of Andhra Pradesh.

RESULTS: We retrospectively analyzed the cardiac events in 4181 BMS implanted patients. 1938 (46.4%) patients were followed for 365 days. More men than women with 40 to 69 years were there. ST elevation MI was the common presenting symptom in 1902patients (45.49%). 1881 patients (44.98%) were diabetic. Single vessel disease was more common 2522(60.32%), Multivessel disease was seen in 210 patients (5.02%). LAD being the common vessel involved followed by RCA. Primary PCI was done in 320 patients(7.65%).

Out of 4181 patients, 9366 lesions were stented with BMS, stainless steel BMS was used in 4988(53.26%) and cobalt chromium BMS was used in 4378 (46.74%) patients.

Out of 4181 patients, 1938 patients (46.4%) were followed up of 1yr, post PCI 686 (35.4%) patients had worsening angina, 226(11.66%) patients had worsening heart failure, 17 (0.88%) patients had repeat STEMI, 11(0.56%) patients had repeat NSTEMI, 16(0.82%) patients had subacute stent thrombosis, 27(1.39%) patients developed late stent thrombosis, 51 patients (2.63%) underwent repeat target vessel revascularization(TVR). 52 (2.68%) patients died due to cardiac cause with in one year of follow up.

CONCLUSIONS: Our study show that even in present era of DES, BMS implantation is effective and associated with less mortality and less stent thrombosis and less chances of target vessel revascularization with the limitations (as it was telephonic follow up).
Is the Pleotropic Effect of Ranolazine is Due to its Antioxidant Action
Authors: Krishna Janapati , Kumar Vijay , Kumar Narendra , Indrani Garre
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Ranolazine is indicated as antianginal drug. We observed that it has other pleotropic effects also. So, we want to study the effect of Ranolazine in improvement of left ventricular (LV) function in obstructive coronary artery (CAD) diseased patients along with ACC/AHA guidelines of treatment. And to see the mode of improvement in LV function is due to its antioxidant effect.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We recruited CAD patient between the age group 18-80 yrs with LV dysfunction in whom ischemic component was treated. Cases received ranolazine 500 mg two times a day and controls without the drug. Both groups received standard drug therapy according to ACC/AHA guidelines of treatment CAD. For all these patients at basal and at 6 months of follow up, all baseline and demographic parameters, clinical features and symptomatology with blood chemistry parameters were collected. In addition Two Dimensional echocardiography (EF, MAV), Treadmill test (METs) and plasma oxidative stress levels (MDA) will be performed at 0 day (day of recruitment) and at 6 months. MDA concentration was tested by using the method described by Draper and Hadley based on TBA reactivity. Normal Range of MDA is 3.60 ± 0.90 Nano mole/ml.

RESULTS: 100 cases and 40 controls were recruited for this study. Male: Female ratio was 3.4:1 in cases and in controls. The mean age of cases was 56.8 ± 9.6 yrs in cases and 55.1 ± 12 yrs in controls. There was no difference in demographic features and risk factor profile in between the cases and controls expect smoking ( high in cases). Even in echo EF was comparable but MAV is more in cases than controls (9.5 ±2.1 vs 8.8±1.8) which are also not statistically significant.

There is statistically significant improvement of EF either by dimension (48.3 ± 9.6 vs 43.8±8.4 %, p= 0.008) or volume (p=0.018) method of estimation and peak mitral annular velocity in cases (9.8±1,8 vs 8.7± 1.8 cm/sec, p= 0.001) who received additional ranolazine therapy than controls.

MDA at 6 months in cases was decreases to 3.4±0.8 nano mole/dl where as in controls increased to 3.9±0.7 nano mole/dl. Out of 100 cases we could able to get Treadmill test done only for 89 patients with modified Bruce protocol and there was a statistically significant improvement in the number of metabolic equivalents at 6 months in cases comparison to basal exercise capacity (6.8± 2.4 vs 8.2 ± 8.1 METS, p= 0.05).

Conclusions

Ranolazine can act as not only an anti anginal drug but also it was shown to have positive effects on improving LV function (improvement in EF and mitral annular velocities) and improving the exercise capacity (increased METs by TMT). These effects may be due to reduction in the oxidative stress (decreased MDA levels).
Congenital Aortic Stenosis in a Fetus: A Case Report and Review of Syndromic Associations
Authors: Aggarwal Shagun
Published: May 2018

This is report of post-mortem findings in a fetus with prenatally detected aortic stenosis. A diagnosis of non-syndromic aortic stenosis was made following evaluation. In view of carbimazole exposure in pregnancy, teratogenic effect was an etiological possibility. Literature was reviewed to look for etiological basis of congenital aortic stenosis with emphasis on syndromic associations.
Carotid or Coronary Intervention which is to be done First?
Authors: M. Ravikiran , Afshan Jabeen , Lalita Nemani
Published: May 2018

In carotid artery disease patients with concomitant significant coronary artery disease (CAD - especially left main diseases – LMCA), the risk of perioperative myocardial infarction and early and late death are increased. Conversely, in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG), uncorrected severe carotid disease increases the risk of adverse neurologic events [1]. The optimal management of these co-existing conditions and the timing and sequence of correcting them remain controversial. Over the past 2 decades, staged carotid revascularisation followed by CABG, staged CABG followed by carotid revascularisation, or combined coronary and carotid revascularisation simultaneously in one operative setting have each been advocated. Our patient presented with both carotid and significant LMCA CAD, first we have done carotid intervention followed one week later by LMCA percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).
Experience of LMCA Angioplasty from a Referral Center and in Hospital Outcomes
Authors: Subramanyam P. , Sireesha P.
Published: May 2018

Introduction and Objectives: CABG is the treatment of choice for severe left main coronary artery stenosis. The results of a number of multicenter trials have suggested angioplasty with stenting as a possible alternative treatment. Previous studies demonstrated procedural success of 90-100% and Mortality 0.8-2% So, want to see these parameters in Asian population though the LMCA registry of a referral center institute.

Material and Methods: We have collected data from patient records who underwent LMCA angioplasty procedure (both unprotected or protected LMCA) performed at our institution between April 2003 to July 2015. Detailed in-hospital data including age, gender, coronary risk factors, procedural events were obtained and analyzed.

Results: Angiographically documented success was obtained in 98% patients with zero mortality. In 134 patients the lesions were pre-dilated using a conventional balloon. In 19 patients direct stenting was done. The median diameter and length of the stent was 3.2542 mm and 13.790 mm, respectively. POBA was done in two cases, BMS were used in 27 cases, DES were used in 124 cases.

Only LMCA stenting was done in 53 cases LMCA with other vessels stenting was done in 98 cases. FFR was used in 2 cases, Kissing balloon dilatation was used in 8 cases, ostial flaring was done in 5 cases. There was no mortality in the study but on table stent thrombosis was seen in one patient for which thrombuster was used, IABP was placed immediately and sent for CABG. For one case result was suboptimal.

Conclusions: Present study demonstrated that stenting for significant LMCA disease is safe and feasible with very high procedural and clinical success rates and zero mortality. LMCA-left main coronary artery, POBA-plain old balloon angioplasty, PCI-Percutaneous coronary intervention, CABG-coronary artery bypass grafting, FFR-Fractional flow reserve, TIMI- thrombolysis in myocardial infarction, DES-drug eluting stent, BMS-bare metal stent, TLR-Target lesion revascularization.
Multiple Myeloma Presenting with Nstemi
Authors: kiran M. , Praveen A.
Published: May 2018

Multiple myeloma, also known as plasma cell myeloma, is a cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell normally responsible for producing antibodies. Multiple myeloma is associated with hyperviscosity of the blood depending on the properties of the para-protein. Here we are reporting a case of multiple myeloma presented with a cute coronary syndrome with Troponin T positive with regional wall motion abnormality but with normal coronaries.
Type 2 Myocardial Infarction in Acute Medical Care
Authors: Sateesh K. , Pragna Stitha , Raju Y
Published: May 2018

Background: Type 2 myocardial infarction (MI) is defined as MI secondary to ischemia due to either increased oxygen demand or decreased supply. It is seen in conditions other than coronary artery disease (CAD) contributes to an imbalance between myocardial oxygen supply and/or demand. Little is known about patient characteristics and clinical outcomes.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed in patients who were admitted in acute medical care with symptoms suggestive of myocardial ischemia and enzymatic elevation from January 2015 to December 2015. Patients with slight elevation (above the upper limit of normal) of CK-MB were included in the study and compared the clinical and laboratory profile between men and women.

Results: This survey includes a total of 54 patients, Out of which complete details were available in 41 patients (M:23; F:18). The mean age was 42.61. The common causes of type-II MI were Infectious (M:9 (39.1%), F:10 (55.6%) followed by haematological disorders (M:3 (13%), F:5 (27.7%). The mean CK-MB was 28.00. The mean CPK was 122.5. There was no hypotension, renal failure at the time of admission. One patient had in-hospital mortality out of all patients, whose primary diagnosis was septicaemia with shock who had normal CPK, elevated CK-MB and elevated NT pro BNP levels. Patients with type-II MI were not referred for coronary interventions and managed conservatively.

Conclusions: There is no significant difference in the risk for type 2 MI between men and women. Clinical suspicion and diagnosis of type 2 MI is crucial in acute medical care setting, as the mortality can be reduced with adequate management of underlying condition. The threshold of biomarker levels should be low (above the upper limit of normal in symptomatic ischemia) to label type 2 MI contrary to the third universal definition of MI.
Pituitary Abscess: A Rare Clinical Entity in the Presence of Acute Rhinosinusitis: A Case Report
Authors: Anagnos Vincent , Hanel Ricardo , Naseri Iman
Published: May 2018

A pituitary abscess is an often-overlooked diagnosis in the clinical presentation of a sellar mass. Due to its rare incidence and nonspecific presentation, diagnosis and treatment is often delayed. The authors describe a 56-year-old male patient presenting with acute onset of severe headache, visual field deficit, and radiologic findings of an expansile sellar lesion. The presenting symptoms were unremarkable for the diagnosis of meningitis, cavernous sinus thrombosis, and septicemia. Recent medical history included symptoms of rhinosinusitis on the days preceding his acute presentation. The initial clinical presentation was suggestive of a possible pituitary apoplexy. Intraoperative findings revealed purulent output upon surgical entry of the sella. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of a pituitary abscess. Review of the clinical and radiologic data revealed evidence of multiple opacifications within the paranasal sinuses, along with dehiscence overlying the sellar bone, supporting a diagnosis of secondary pituitary abscess. This case, along with a review of the available literature, will serve to expand our knowledge of this rare disease process that is often overlooked. Clinicians should be mindful of this condition, and include a primary versus secondary pituitary abscess in the differential workup on such cases.
Information Sources and Decision-Making in Neurosurgery: Results of a Survey of Members of the Brazilian Neurosurgery Society
Authors: Gorayeb Rodrigo , João Forjaz Maria , Gonçalves-Ferreira Antônio , Ferreira Joaquim
Published: May 2018

Introduction In all surgical disciplines, including neurosurgery, there are questions about the level of evidence supporting surgical practices and the mechanisms and adequacy of knowledge translation.

Objectives To assess the perception of Brazilian neurosurgeons of information sources and decision-making mechanisms related to their medical practices.

Methods An online questionnaire was sent to the 2,400 members of the Brazilian Neurosurgical Society.

Results A total of 32% of the neurosurgeons completed the questionnaire, 53% had more than 10 years experience, 67% had worked in public hospitals, 34% had performed spine surgeries, and 30% had performed brain tumor surgeries. The therapeutic decisions were based mostly on internship learning (54%) and personal professional experience (52%). The most common information sources were scientific abstracts (53%) and the Internet (47%). A total of 89% believed that evidence-based medicine was relevant, 93% believed protocols or guidelines were necessary, and 74% subscribed to a medical journal. Nonetheless, only 43% had protocols implemented in their services, 93% highly valued a surgeon's personal experience, and 63% showed little familiarity with the interpretation of scientific concepts in the literature. Among the respondents, 83% were willing to try an innovative treatment alternative if it was shown to improve clinical outcomes and reduce severe complications.

Conclusions The disparity in the responses highlights the need to implement recommendations that improve decision-making mechanisms.
Ripple formation on Si surfaces during plasma etching in Cl2
Authors: Nakazaki Nobuya , Matsumoto Haruka , Sonobe Soma , Hatsuse Takumi , Tsuda Hirotaka , Takao Yoshinori , Eriguchi Koji , Ono Kouichi
Published: May 2018

Nanoscale surface roughening and ripple formation in response to ion incidence angle has been investigated during inductively coupled plasma etching of Si in Cl2, using sheath control plates to achieve the off-normal ion incidence on blank substrate surfaces. The sheath control plate consisted of an array of inclined trenches, being set into place on the rf-biased electrode, where their widths and depths were chosen in such a way that the sheath edge was pushed out of the trenches. The distortion of potential distributions and the consequent deflection of ion trajectories above and in the trenches were then analyzed based on electrostatic particle-in-cell simulations of the plasma sheath, to evaluate the angular distributions of ion fluxes incident on substrates pasted on sidewalls and/or at the bottom of the trenches. Experiments showed well-defined periodic sawtooth-like ripples with their wave vector oriented parallel to the direction of ion incidence at intermediate off-normal angles, while relatively weak corrugations or ripplelike structures with the wave vector perpendicular to it at high off-normal angles. Possible mechanisms for the formation of surface ripples during plasma etching are discussed with the help of Monte Carlo simulations of plasma-surface interactions and feature profile evolution. The results indicate the possibility of providing an alternative to ion beam sputtering for self-organized formation of ordered surface nanostructures.
First principles study on the electronic structures and transport properties of armchair/zigzag edge hybridized graphene nanoribbons
Authors: Yi Xiuying , Long Mengqiu , Liu Anhua , Li Mingjun , Xu Hui
Published: May 2018

Graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) can be mainly classified into armchair graphene nanoribbons (aGNRs) and zigzag graphene nanoribbons (zGNRs) by different edge chiral directions. In this work, by introducing Stone-Wales defects on the edges of the V-shaped aGNRs, we propose a kind of armchair/zigzag edge hybridized GNRs (a/zHGNRs) and using the density functional theory and the nonequilibrium Green's function method, the band structures and electronic transport properties of the a/zHGNRs have been calculated. Our results show that an indirect bandgap appears in the band structures of the a/zHGNRs, which is very different from the direct bandgap of aGNRs and gapless of zGNRs. We also find that the valance band is mainly derived from the armchair partial atoms on the hybridized edge, while the conduction band comes mainly from the zigzag partial atoms of the hybridized edge. Meanwhile, the bandgap also oscillates with a period of three when the ribbon width increases. In addition, our quantum transport calculations show that there is a remarkable transition between the semiconductor and the metal with different ribbon widths in the a/zHGNRs devices, and the corresponding physical analysis is given.
Pre-coalescence scaling of graphene island sizes
Authors: Das Shantanu , Drucker Jeff
Published: May 2018

Graphene grown using cold-wall chemical vapor deposition on Cu surfaces follows a classical nucleation and growth mechanism. Following nucleation at the earliest growth stages, isolated crystallites grow, impinge, and coalesce to form a continuous layer. During the pre-coalescence growth regime, the size distributions of graphene crystallites exhibit scaling of the form N(s) = θ/⟨s⟩2 g(s/⟨s⟩), where s is the island area, θ is the graphene coverage, ⟨s⟩ is the average island area, N is the areal density, and g(x) is a scaling function. For graphene grown on Cu surfaces that have been annealed in a reducing Ar + H2 ambient, excellent data collapse onto a universal Avrami scaling function is observed irrespective of graphene coverage, surface roughness, or Cu grain size. This result is interpreted to indicate attachment-limited growth and desorption of diffusing C-containing species. Graphene grown on Cu surfaces that were annealed in a non-reducing environment exhibits a qualitatively different scaling function, indicating diffusion-limited growth with a lower attachment barrier combined with C detachment from the graphene edges.
Wavelength-detuning cross-beam energy transfer mitigation scheme for direct drive: Modeling and evidence from National Ignition Facility implosions
Authors: Marozas J. A. , Hohenberger M. , Rosenberg M. J. , Turnbull D. , Collins T. J. B. , Radha P. B. , McKenty P. W. , Zuegel J. D. , Marshall F. J. , Regan S. P. , Sangster T. C. , Seka W. , Campbell E. M. , Goncharov V. N. , Bowers M. W. , Di Nicola J.-M. G. , Erbert G. , MacGowan B. J. , Pelz L. J. , Moody J. , Yang S. T.
Published: May 2018

Cross-beam energy transfer (CBET) results from two-beam energy exchange via seeded stimulated Brillouin scattering, which detrimentally reduces laser-energy absorption for direct-drive inertial confinement fusion. Consequently, ablation pressure and implosion velocity suffer from the decreased absorption, reducing target performance in both symmetric and polar direct drive. Additionally, CBET alters the time-resolved scattered-light spectra and redistributes absorbed and scattered-light–changing shell morphology and low-mode drive symmetry. Mitigating CBET is demonstrated in inertial confinement implosions at the National Ignition Facility by detuning the laser-source wavelengths (±2.3 Å UV) of the interacting beams. In polar direct drive, wavelength detuning was shown to increase the equatorial region velocity experimentally by 16% and to alter the in-flight shell morphology. These experimental observations are consistent with design predictions of radiation–hydrodynamic simulations that indicate a 10% increase in the average ablation pressure. These results indicate that wavelength detuning successfully mitigates CBET. Simulations predict that optimized phase plates and wavelength-detuning CBET mitigation utilizing the three-legged beam layout of the OMEGA Laser System significantly increase absorption and achieve >100-Gbar hot-spot pressures in symmetric direct drive.
Coexistence of negative and positive polarity electrostatic solitary waves in ultradense relativistic negative-ion-beam permeated plasmas
Authors: Elkamash I. S. , Kourakis I.
Published: May 2018

The criteria for occurrence and the dynamical features of electrostatic solitary waves in a homogeneous, unmagnetized ultradense plasma penetrated by a negative ion beam are investigated, relying on a quantum hydrodynamic model. The ionic components are modeled as inertial fluids, while the relativistic electrons obey Fermi-Dirac statistics. A new set of exact analytical conditions for localized solitary pulses to exist is obtained, in terms of plasma density. The algebraic analysis reveals that these depend sensitively on the negative ion beam characteristics, that is, the beam velocity and density. Particular attention is paid to the simultaneous occurrence of positive and negative potential pulses, identified by their respective distinct ambipolar electric field structure forms. It is shown that the coexistence of positive and negative potential pulses occurs in a certain interval of parameter values, where the ion beam inertia becomes significant.
Multi-keV X-ray area source intensity at SGII laser facility
Authors: Wang Rui-rong , An Hong-hai , Xie Zhi-yong , Wang Wei
Published: May 2018

Experiments for investigating the feasibility of multi-keV backlighters for several different metallic foil targets were performed at the Shenguang II (SGII) laser facility in China. Emission spectra in the energy range of 1.65–7.0 keV were measured with an elliptically bent crystal spectrometer, and the X-ray source size was measured with a pinhole camera. The X-ray intensity near 4.75 keV and the X-ray source size for titanium targets at different laser intensity irradiances were studied. By adjusting the total laser energy at a fixed focal spot size, laser intensity in the range of 1.5–5.0 × 1015 W/cm2, was achieved. The results show that the line emission intensity near 4.75 keV and the X-ray source size are dependent on the laser intensity and increase as the laser intensity increases. However, an observed “peak” in the X-ray intensity near 4.75 keV occurs at an irradiance of 4.0 × 1015 W/cm2. For the employed experimental conditions, it was confirmed that the laser intensity could play a significant role in the development of an efficient multi-keV X-ray source. The experimental results for titanium indicate that the production of a large (∼350 μm in diameter) intense backlighter source of multi-keV X-rays is feasible at the SGII facility.
Record productions establish RF-driven sources as the standard for generating high-duty-factor, high-current H− beams for accelerators (Winner of the ICIS 2017 Brightness Award)
Authors: Stockli Martin P. , Welton Robert F. , Han Baoxi
Published: May 2018

The Spallation Neutron Source operates reliably at 1.2 MW and will gradually ramp to 1.4 MW. This paper briefly recalls some of the struggles when the unprecedented project was started and ramped to 1 MW over a 3½ year period. This was challenging, especially for the H− ion source and the low-energy beam transport system, which make up the H− injector. It took several more years to push the H− injector to the 1.4 MW requirements, and even longer to reach close to 100% injector availability. An additional breakthrough was the carefully staged, successful extension of the H− source service cycle so that disruptive source changes became rare events. More than 7 A·h of extracted H− ions have been demonstrated with a single source without maintenance, more than twice the single-source quantity of ions produced by any other high-current H− accelerator facility. Achieving the 1.4 MW requirements with close to 100% availability and record-breaking source service cycles were the basis for the 2017 Brightness Award.
Impact of time varying load models on PV DG planning
Authors: Nadeem Khan Muhammad Faisal , Malik Tahir Nadeem , Sajjad Intisar Ali
Published: May 2018

A constant load and generation model is generally considered in planning studies that pertain to Distributed Generation (DG) integrated distribution systems. However, such considerations may result in misleading and inconsistent values for the voltage profile, loss reduction, payback period, deferral values, and other related calculations due to the variation of both renewable energy-based generation and load demand. This paper investigates the impact of time varying voltage dependent load models on the DG planning studies. The study is based on the comparative assessment of different impact indices, penetration level, active and reactive power intake, active and reactive power loss, and Mega Volt Ampere support offered by the installation of photovoltaic based DG for different time varying load models. The outcomes of the current research work reveal that the time varying load modeling approach has significant impact on the distribution systems.
Evaluating signal and noise spectral density of a qPlus sensor with an active feedback control
Authors: Lee Manhee , An Sangmin , Jhe Wonho
Published: May 2018

Q-control technique enables to actively change the quality factor of the probe oscillation in dynamic atomic force microscopy. The Q-control is realized by adding a self-feedback loop into the original actuation-detection system, in which a damping force with controllable damping coefficient in magnitude and sign is applied to the oscillating probe. While the applied force alters the total damping interaction and thus the overall ‘signal’ of the probe motion, the added feedback system changes the ‘noise’ of the motion as well. Here, we systematically investigate the signal, the noise, and the signal-to-noise ratio of the qPlus sensor under the active Q-control. We quantify the noise of the qPlus motion by measuring the noise spectral density, which is reproduced by a harmonic oscillator model including the thermal and the measurement noises. We show that the noise signal increases with the quality factor controlled, scaling as the square root of the quality factor. Because the overall signal is linearly proportional to the quality factor, the signal-to-noise ratio scales as the square root of the quality factor. The Q-controlled qPlus with a highly enhanced Q, up to 10,000 in air, leads to the minimum detectable force gradient of 0.001 N/m, which would enhance the capability of the qPlus sensor for atomic force microscopy and spectroscopy.
An enstrophy-based linear and nonlinear receptivity theory
Authors: Sengupta Aditi , Suman V. K. , Sengupta Tapan K. , Bhaumik Swagata
Published: May 2018

In the present research, a new theory of instability based on enstrophy is presented for incompressible flows. Explaining instability through enstrophy is counter-intuitive, as it has been usually associated with dissipation for the Navier-Stokes equation (NSE). This developed theory is valid for both linear and nonlinear stages of disturbance growth. A previously developed nonlinear theory of incompressible flow instability based on total mechanical energy described in the work of Sengupta et al. [“Vortex-induced instability of an incompressible wall-bounded shear layer,” J. Fluid Mech. 493, 277–286 (2003)] is used to compare with the present enstrophy based theory. The developed equations for disturbance enstrophy and disturbance mechanical energy are derived from NSE without any simplifying assumptions, as compared to other classical linear/nonlinear theories. The theory is tested for bypass transition caused by free stream convecting vortex over a zero pressure gradient boundary layer. We explain the creation of smaller scales in the flow by a cascade of enstrophy, which creates rotationality, in general inhomogeneous flows. Linear and nonlinear versions of the theory help explain the vortex-induced instability problem under consideration.
Enhanced thermoelectric performance realized in AgBiS2 composited AgBiSe2 through indium doping and mechanical alloying
Authors: Guan Yingdong , Huang Yi , Wu Di , Feng Dan , He Mingkai , He Jiaqing
Published: May 2018

AgBiSe2 is deemed as a decent candidate of state-of-arts thermoelectric lead chalcogenides due to its intrinsically low lattice thermal conductivity. In this work, we report that a peak figure of merit of ∼0.9 can be realized at 773 K in n-type AgBiSe2 when it is simultaneously doped with indium and composited with AgBiS2 through the ball milling process. The enhancement of thermoelectric performance of AgBiSe2 largely comes from the significant reduction of thermal conductivity from ∼0.5 W/mK to 0.33 W/mK at 773 K, which is the record low value ever reported in this specific system. The decrease in thermal conductivity can be ascribed to the combination of grain size reduction and enhanced alloy scattering from S-Se substitution during the high energy ball milling processes.
Efficiency enhancement of flexible OLEDs by using nano-corrugated substrates and conformal Ag transparent anodes
Authors: Wang Li , Luo Yu , Feng Xueming , Pei Yuechen , Lu Bingheng , Cheng Shenggui
Published: May 2018

In flexible OLEDs (FOLEDs), the traditional ITO anode has disadvantages such as refractive-index mismatches among substrate and other functional layers, leads to light loss of nearly 80%, meanwhile, its brittle nature and lack in raw materials hinder its further applications. We investigated an efficient FOLED using a semi-transparent silver (Ag) anode, whereas the device was built on a nano-corrugated flexible polycarbonate (PC) substrate prepared by thermal nanoimprint lithography. The corrugations were well preserved on each layer of the device, both the micro-cavity effect and surface plasmon polariton (SPP) modes of light loss were effectively suppressed. As a result, the current efficiency of the FOLED using a conformal corrugated Ag anode enhanced by 100% compared with a planar Ag anode device, and enhanced by 13% with conventional ITO device. In addition, owing to the quasi-periodical arrangements of the corrugations, the device achieved broad spectra and Lambertian angular emission. The Ag anode significantly improved the bending properties of the OLED as compared to the conventional ITO device, leading to a longer lifetime in practical use. The proposed manufacturing strategy will be useful for fabricating nano corrugations on plastic substrate of FOLED in a cost-effective and convenient manner.
Thickened boundary layer theory for air film drag reduction on a van body surface
Authors: Xie Xiaopeng , Cao Lifeng , Huang Heng
Published: May 2018

To elucidate drag reduction mechanism on a van body surface under air film condition, a thickened boundary layer theory was proposed and a frictional resistance calculation model of the van body surface was established. The frictional resistance on the van body surface was calculated with different parameters of air film thickness. In addition, the frictional resistance of the van body surface under the air film condition was analyzed by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation and different air film states that influenced the friction resistance on the van body surface were discussed. As supported by the CFD simulation results, the thickened boundary layer theory may provide reference for practical application of air film drag reduction on a van body surface.
The impact of two different hormonal growth promotants (HGPs) on the eating quality of feedlot-finished steer carcasses
Authors: Packer D. T. , Geesink G. H. , Polkinghorne R. , Thompson J. M. , Ball A. J.
Published: May 2018

The Meat Standards Australia beef-grading model applies a variable adjustment for different cuts of hormonal growth promotant (HGP)-treated carcasses, but does not differentiate between different HGP types. Using 300 non-implanted Bos indicus–Bos taurus composite steers, an experiment was conducted to compare the effects of an oestradiol only (OES) and a combination trenbolone acetate and oestradiol (TBA+OES) implant with non-implanted animals (CON) fed a concentrate ration for 73 days before slaughter, on eating quality of the mm. longissimus lumborum (LL) and gluteus medius (GM) muscles. Sensory and objective LL and GM samples were aged for either 5 or 35 days before freezing at −20°C. Carcass weights from each group were significantly (P < 0.05) different. Corrected for carcass weight, HGP treatment had a significant effect on hump height, ossification score, marble score, P8 fat depth and eye-muscle area. The TBA+OES treatment resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) tougher meat than the OES and CON treatments as assessed by shear force, although this difference was reduced with aging. Sensory scores (tenderness, juiciness, like flavour, overall liking and a composite MQ4 score) confirmed a negative HGP treatment effect, whereby TBA+OES was significantly lower than the CON and OES treatments after 5 days of aging, and these differences were reduced through aging. TBA+OES had a greater impact on sensory scores in the LL when compared to the GM. Both HGP treatments increased calpastatin activity, and the TBA+OES treatment was significantly (P < 0.05) different from the CON and OES treatments. It was concluded that OES and TBA+OES implants have different impacts on meat eating-quality measurements, which could have important implications for the Australian and international beef industry.
Global beef cattle methane emissions: yield prediction by cluster and meta-analyses
Authors: Cottle D. J. , Eckard R. J.
Published: May 2018

Methane yield values (MY; g methane/kg dry-matter intake) in beef cattle reported in the global literature (expanded MitiGate database of methane-mitigation studies) were analysed by cluster and meta-analyses. The Ward and k means cluster analyses included accounting for the categorical effects of methane measurement method, cattle breed type, country or region of study, age and sex of cattle, and proportion of grain in the diet and the standardised continuous variables of number of animals, liveweight and MY. After removal of data from outlier studies, meta-analyses were conducted on subsets of data to produce prediction equations for MY. Removing outliers with absolute studentised residual values of >1, followed by meta-analysis of data accounting for categorical effects, is recommended as a method for predicting MY. The large differences among some countries in MY values were significant but difficult to interpret. On the basis of the datasets available, a single, global MY or percentage of gross energy in feed converted to methane (Ym) value is not appropriate for use in Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) greenhouse accounting methods around the world. Therefore, ideally country-specific MY values should be used in each country’s accounts (i.e. an IPCC Tier 2 or 3 approach) from data generated within that country.
Heme redox potentials hold the key to reactivity differences between nitric oxide reductase and heme-copper oxidase
Authors: Bhagi-Damodaran Ambika , Reed Julian H. , Zhu Qianhong , Shi Yelu , Hosseinzadeh Parisa , Sandoval Braddock A. , Harnden Kevin A. , Wang Shuyan , Sponholtz Madeline R. , Mirts Evan N. , Dwaraknath Sudharsan , Zhang Yong , Moënne-Loccoz Pierre , Lu Yi
Published: May 2018

Significance

Nitric oxide reductases (NORs) catalyze the reduction of NO as part of the denitrification cycle, while structurally related heme-copper oxidases (HCOs) catalyze oxygen reduction during respiration. Despite decades of investigation into the structure/function of HCOs and NORs, factors governing their reaction specificity remain unknown. By tuning E°′ of a biosynthetic model of NOR in myoglobin and using electrochemical, spectroscopic, and computational methods to understand the impact of such tuning, this work reveals heme E°′ as a key to determining the specificity of these two enzymes and explains their cross-reactivity. Beyond resolving such a long-standing issue, this work provides guidelines for the design and synthesis of artificial metalloenzymes that can catalyze reactions relevant to global nitrogen cycles and biological respiration that is important for oxygen reduction reaction in fuel cells.
Language and gender
Authors: Winter Joanne , Wigglesworth Gillian
Published: May 2018

In our introductory discussion to this Series S volume on language and gender in Australia we argue for the recognition of gender research in a broadened interpretation of applied linguistics. We forecast the place of feminist (applied)1 linguists within a wider understanding of the applications for linguistic knowledge. We discuss how this collection of papers reflects the ongoing developments and changes in language and gender research through the implementation and critique of methods and methodologies. We also present a brief overview of the panel discussion; the people, topics and directions, which was primarily responsible for this publication and forecast some directions and possible challenges for language and gender research in the Australian context.
Language planning, language reform and the sexes in Australia
Authors: Pauwels Anne
Published: May 2018

This paper deals with the phenomena of linguistic sexism and non-sexist language reform (feminist language planning) in the Australian context. It surveys Australian work on linguistic sexism and discusses various aspects of non-sexist language reform in Australia. Particular emphasis is placed on problematic issues relating to feminist language planning, i.e. the selection and evaluation of non-sexist alternatives and the implementation mechanisms for this type of reform. Linguistic change resulting from the reform initiatives and its spread throughout the community is also described briefly.
Closings in talkback radio
Authors: Döpke Susanne , Brown Anne , Liddicoat Anthony , Love Kristina
Published: May 2018

This paper explores the effects of institutional communication on highly regular casual conversation routines. The institutional environment chosen is radio telephone conversation ortalkback radio.Systematic variations from mundane telephone conversations were found in the closing sections and pre-closing environments of radio talkback segments. The variations are discussed in the light of the unequal status and differences in access of the participants, as well as the constraints imposed by the medium, (discourse analysis, broadcasting, talkback, routines, power)
How do you know what i’m going to say? the use of advance organisers in modern standard Chinese
Authors: Kirkpatrick Andy
Published: May 2018

The use of advance organisers (Clyne 1987) are common in English. In this article, we divide advance organisers into two types – those that signpost the structure of the discourse for a listener and those that signpost the content of the discourse for the listener. Data of extended spoken discourse in Modern Standard Chinese (MSC) shows that, while advance organisers that signpost structure are common in MSC, advance organisers that signpost content are rare. Implications of this for language teaching and cross-cultural communication conclude the article.
Preference organisation in teacher-supervisor talk
Authors: Taylor Elizabeth
Published: May 2018

This paper uses conversation analysis to examine a feedback session between a postgraduate student of TESOL and a university supervisor who had just watched her lesson. The feedbacsk session seemed unsatisfactory to the supervisor and the analysis suggests that this could have been due to the role of trainee being resisted by the teacher. Evidence for this in the talk is examined in detail, in particular the number and shape of dispreferred responses found. It would seem that the rules of ordinary conversation may influence these feedback sessions just as much as the conventions connected with the institutional setting of the talk.
A very delayed acceptance to an invitation in a French conversation
Authors: Barraja-Rohan Anne-Marie
Published: May 2018

Many studies have been concerned with sequence organisation, adjacency pairs and preference organisation in English conversations. However, there is a need to investigate how these structures apply to other languages, and this paper undertakes such a task in analysing a French telephone conversation. In the conversation analysed, the two base parts of an invitation sequence, the invitation and its acceptance, are separated by 113 turns of talk. The methodology uses the Jeffersonian transcription system and Conversation Analysis techniques. What is remarkable about the data analysed in this study is its striking similarities to an English conversation examined by Schegloff (1990). The parallels with Schegloff’s single case analysis constitute evidence of a phenomenon equally occurring in French, with a massive delay between the first pair part (FPP) and the second pair part (SPP) and the complex local organisation and expansion sequences that result from it.
The politicisation of English
Authors: Hawthorne Lesleyanne
Published: May 2018

The past decade in Australia has been characterised by a striking growth in the application of language testing, frequently in contexts governed by macro-political pressures. Despite this, the literature to date has rarely placed its first emphasis on the pragmatic considerations which typically give rise to test development, and impact on test design as well as administration outcomes. To illustrate the significance of this, this chapter explores the recent pressures surrounding the evolution and implementation of the Special Test of English Proficiency (step test) – a form of ESL testing designed not merely to assess linguistic competence, but to play a central role in the determination of residential status for substantial numbers of asylum seekers.