bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuro-Fuzzy Control of a Robotic Manipulator
Authors: Gierlak P. , Muszyńska M. , Żylski W.
Published: September 2014

In this paper, to solve the problem of control of a robotic manipulator’s movement with holonomical constraints, an intelligent control system was used. This system is understood as a hybrid controller, being a combination of fuzzy logic and an artificial neural network. The purpose of the neuro-fuzzy system is the approximation of the nonlinearity of the robotic manipulator’s dynamic to generate a compensatory control. The control system is designed in such a way as to permit modification of its properties under different operating conditions of the two-link manipulator
Dynamic Axle Load of an Automotive Vehicle When Driven on a Mobile Measurement Platform
Authors: Jagiełowicz-Ryznar C.
Published: September 2014

An analysis of the dynamic axle load of an automotive vehicle (AV) when it is driven on a mobile measurement platform is presented in this paper. During the ride, the time characteristic of the dynamic force N(t), acting on the axle, was recorded. The effect of the vehicle axle mass on the maximum dynamic force value and the dynamic coefficient were studied. On this basis it was attempted to calculate the total vehicle’s weight. Conclusions concerning the dynamic loads of the vehicle axles in relation to the reduced axle mass, were drawn. The optimal axle mass value, for which the dynamic coefficient reaches a minimum, was calculated
Are All Quality Dimensions of Equal Importance when Measuring the Perceived Quality of Official Statistics? Evidence from Spain
Authors: Costa Alex , Garcıá Jaume , Raymond Josep Lluis
Published: September 2014

Quality has become the key concept in official statistics. There is a general consensus that we have to consider several components when assessing the quality of statistical information. Relevance, accuracy, timeliness, punctuality, comparability, coherence, accessibility and clarity are the dimensions most frequently mentioned. In this article we use regression analysis to evaluate the contribution of these different dimensions when assessing the overall quality of statistical products. We do this using the information collected in the structured consultation with users and experts from both inside and outside the Spanish Central Administration carried out by the Working Group of the Spanish High Council on Statistics, responsible for the preliminary draft of the proposals and recommendations of this council for the Spanish Multiannual Statistical Programme 2013-2016. We find that the abovementioned dimensions have different weights in the overall assessment of perceived quality (with accuracy and reliability having the highest weight, and relevance having the lowest) and that the structure differs between both types of users.
Microchilus campanensis (Orchidaceae), a new species from Panama
Authors: Kolanowska Marta
Published: September 2014

A new species of Microchilus Presl, M. campanensis Kolan., is described from Panamanian material and illustrated. The new species differs from M. pedrojuanensis Ormerod in its spur shape, prominent epichile apical lobe, prominent floral bracts, and irregular apical margins of the petals and dorsal sepal. Information about its habitat and conservation status is provided.
Biochemical and haematological profile of pheasant hens during the laying period
Authors: Schumann J. , Bedanova I. , Voslarova E. , Hrabcakova P. , Chloupek J. , Pistekova V.
Published: September 2014

The present paper provides new experimental data on the biochemical and haematological profile of blood in pheasant hens, and points out the changes in both biochemical and haematological parameters that occur during the laying period. Significant effects of egg laying on both the biochemical and the haematological blood parameters of pheasant hens were found. Biochemical analyses revealed a significant increase in the metabolites cholesterol, uric acid, lactate, the enzyme aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and the minerals calcium and phosphorous, as well as a significant decrease in total protein, albumin and glucose in the course of the laying period. Haematological analyses revealed a significant increase in the count of leukocytes, lymphocytes, eosinophils, basophils and monocytes due to egg laying. In addition, the erythrocyte count and haemoglobin content significantly decreased in the middle of the laying period and then rebounded at the end of the laying period. The haematocrit content gradually decreased till the end of the laying period. All together, the results of this study underline the impact of the reproduction status of pheasant hens on basic blood parameters. The biochemical and haematological values presented in this study may be of help in assessing disease conditions in laying pheasant hens.
Detection of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces by nested PCR with the use of diluted DNA samples
Authors: Karamon J.
Published: September 2014

The aim of this study was to choose the optimal variant of PCR examination of faeces to detect Echinococcus multilocularis infection which would allow to reduce the influence of different inhibitors in faeces. The investigation was carried out by comparison of 3 different methods of DNA isolation from faeces and different DNA dilutions used in PCR. Thirty five intestines of red foxes were used. Small intestines were examined by the sedimentation and counting technique (SCT). Faeces were collected from the rectum for PCR and flotation. DNA were isolated with the use of 3 different methods. Two methods were dedicated for faeces: method 1 (M1) - for larger samples and method 2 (M2) - for standard samples. The third method, method 3 (M3), was not dedicated for faeces. DNA samples were tested by nested PCR in 6 variants: not diluted (1/1) and 5 diluted (1/2.5, 1/5, 1/10. 1/20, 1/40). E. multilocularis was found by SCT in 18 from 35 (51.4%) intestines. Taenia-type eggs were detected only in 20.0% of faecal samples. In PCR the highest number of positive results (45.7%) were obtained during examination of DNA isolated by M1 method, and then 40.0% and 34.3%, respectively, for M2 and M3. In some samples positive results in PCR were obtained only in diluted DNA. For example, 8 from 12 positive samples isolated by M3 method gave the PCR negative results in non-diluted DNA and positive only after dilution 1:2.5, 1:10 or 1:20. Also 3 samples isolated by methods dedicated for stool gave positive results only after DNA dilution. The investigation has revealed that in copro-PCR for detection of E. multilocularis infection additional using of diluted DNA (besides non diluted) can avoid false negative results causing by PCR inhibition. In the best method of DNA isolation (M1), the use of non diluted DNA sample together with diluted in proportion 1:10 seems to be optimal.
Glutathione and glutathione-related enzymes in rats exposed to dimethoate and/or pyrantel
Authors: Spodniewska A. , Barski D. , Ziółkowski H.
Published: September 2014

The study was undertaken to examine the effect of single and combined administration of dimethoate (an OP insecticide) and pyrantel embonate (an anthelmintic agent) on the concentration of reduced glutathione (GSH) and the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione reductase (GR) in rats. Dimethoate (Group I) was administered to rats at a dose of 1/10 LD50for 5 consecutive days and pyrantel embonate (Group II) at a dose of 1/5 LD50for 3 consecutive days. The animals of group III were given both of the mentioned above compounds in the same manner as group I and II, but pyrantel embonate was applied on day 3, 4, and 5 from the beginning of dimethoate intoxication. Material from 6 rats randomly selected from each group was obtained after 3, 6 and 12 hours and 2, 7 and 14 days following the last applied dose of the compounds under study. It was found that application of pyrantel embonate caused only slight changes in the analysed parameters i.e. GSH, GPx and GR. Dimethoate administration caused disturbances in the antioxidative system manifested as a decrease in GSH concentration in the liver (max. - 37.7% after 6 hours) and an increase of GPx and GR activities in erythrocytes (max. - 21.7% and 29.6% after 3 hours, respectively), compared to the control group. The profile of changes after combined intoxication was similar, but their intensity was higher compared to the group of animals exposed to dimethoate only. Based on current studies, it was concluded that both dimethoate and pyrantel embonate at the applied doses showed a pro-oxidative activity.
The effect of dietary L-arginine intake on the level of antibody titer, the relative organ weight and colon motility in broilers
Authors: Bulbul T. , Ozdemir V. , Bulbul A. , Ulutas E.
Published: September 2014

This study was carried out to determine the effect of L-arginine (L-Arg) levels in diet at the starter, grower and finisher phases on immune response, organ development, nitric oxide (NO) metabolism and colon motility in broilers. A total of 500 one-day-old Ross-308 broiler chickens of mixed sex were separated into one Arg-deficient group and four experimental groups. Each group was then divided into five subgroups of 20 birds each. Arginine deficient group for all phases was fed a basal diet which contained 10% less L-Arg than optimum Arg requirement recommended by the breeder. Experimental groups were fed a basal diet supplemented with L-Arg which was progressively 10% increased in groups. Thus, the diet contained 90, 100, 110, 120 and 130% of optimum Arg requirement for each phases in groups, respectively.

The highest serum infectious bursal disease antibody titer (IBD) was observed in the experimental group which was fed the diet containing 110% L-Arg at grower phase (P<0.05), whereas Newcastle disease antibody titer did not differ between groups. The relative weight of spleen increased in groups which were fed the diet containing 120 and 130% L-Arg at starter phase as compared to Arg-deficient group (P<0.05). The group which was fed the diet containing 110% L-Arg showed highest relative weight of bursa Fabricii at grower (P<0.05) and finisher (P<0.01) phases. It was observed that serum nitric oxide (NO) concentration decreased in Arg-deficient group (P<0.05). The amplitude of spontaneous colon contractility did not differ between groups at the end of all three phases. However, the frequency of spontaneous colon contractility in the Arg deficient group was higher at starter (P<0.05), grower (P<0.01) and finisher (P<0.05) phases.

These results suggest that the supplementation of L-Arg at higher level than optimum Arg requirement in broiler diet has minimal effect on parameters investigated in the study. However, L-Arg-deficiency may negatively affect immune response and the motility of gastrointestinal system due to disruption of NO metabolism at three phases.
Antimicrobial resistance in bacteria isolated from pigeons in Poland
Authors: Stenzel T. , Bancerz-Kisiel A. , Tykałowski B. , Śmiałek M. , Pestka D. , Koncicki A.
Published: September 2014

The present study investigated the drug-resistance to the selected antibiotics in Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium and beta-haemolytic coagulase-positive staphylococci isolated from pigeons bred in Poland. In the case of E. coli, tetracyclines and amoxicillin were least effective. In the staphylococci, the highest resistance was detected for oxytetracycline and quinolones and 5% were resistant to methicillin. The lowest drug-resistance was reported for Salmonella typhimurium.
Methods and difficulties in detection of Clostridium botulinum and its toxins
Authors: Grenda T. , Kukier E. , Kwiatek K.
Published: September 2014

The aim of this work was to present selected data regarding traditional and modern methods for C. botulinum and its toxins detection. In this article, methods based on culturing techniques, mouse bioassay, immunological techniques, chromatography and PCR, PFGE, RFLP, AFLP are described. The mentioned techniques were evaluated considering their usefulness in the samples examination, genotyping of strains and the diagnostics of botulism.
Need for database extension for reliable identification of bacteria from extreme environments using MALDI TOF mass spectrometry
Authors: Kopcakova Anna , Stramova Zuzana , Kvasnova Simona , Godany Andrej , Perhacova Zuzana , Pristas Peter
Published: September 2014

The ability of MALDI TOF MS (matrix-assisted laser desorption ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry) to identify cultivable microflora from two waste disposal sites from non-ferrous metal industry was analysed. Despite the harsh conditions (extreme pH values and heavy metal content in red mud disposal site from aluminium production or high heavy metal content in nickel sludge), relatively high numbers of bacteria were recovered. In both environments, the bacterial community was dominated by Gram-positive bacteria, especially by actinobacteria. High-quality MALDI TOF mass spectra were obtained but most of the bacteria isolates could be not identified using MALDI Biotyper software. The overall identification rate was lower than 20 %; in two of the environments tested identification rates were lower than 10 %. As a dominant bacterial species, Microbacterium spp. in drainage water from an aluminium red mud disposal site near Žiar nad Hronom, Bacillus spp. in red mud samples from the same site, and Arthrobacter spp. from nickel smelter sludge near Sereï were identified by a combination of the Biolog system and 16S rRNA sequence analysis. As the primary focus of the MALDI TOF MS-based methodology is directed towards medically important bacteria, reference database spectra expansion and refinement are needed to improve the ability of MALDI TOF MS to identify environmental bacteria, especially those from extreme environments.
Cu-based atom transfer radical polymerization of methyl methacrylate using a novel tridentate ligand with mixed donor atoms
Authors: Saghatchi Fatemeh , Ahmadi Ebrahim , Mohamadnia Zahra , Hajifatheali Hassan , Tabebordbar Hashem , Karimi Farnoosh
Published: September 2014

This study is aimed at atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of methyl methacrylate (MMA) using a novel catalyst. The bis-(2-dodecylsulfanyl-ethyl)-amine (SNS) tridentate ligand with mixed donor atoms was synthesized in high purity using inexpensive reagents and was reacted with copper(I) bromide to produce the CuBr/SNS catalyst. The catalyst mediated living polymerization of MMA yielding polymers with controlled molecular masses and narrow molecular mass distributions (PDI < 1.25). Also, the kinetic plot exhibited a linear increase of ln([M]0/[M]) versus time, indicating constant concentration of propagating radicals during the polymerization. The products were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, FT-IR, UV-VIS, GC and elemental analyses (CHNS) and by GPC.
Purification of phloridzin from Lithocarpus polystachyus Rehd leaves using polymeric adsorbents functionalized with glucosamine and β-cyclodextrin
Authors: Wang Qian-Wen , Liu Jia-Jia , Liu Xiong , Zha Hong-Wei , Ren Na
Published: September 2014

A high-efficient purification method of flavonoids from Lithocarpus polystachyus Rehd leaves is reported. Two adsorbents functionalized with glucosamine (GA) and β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) were synthesized and characterized by the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra. Also, adsorption properties and purification effect of flavonoids on different adsorbents were investigated. Two typical commercial adsorbents, AB-8 and D101, were employed as the reference materials. The adsorption capacity was enhanced remarkably by the introduction of GA and β-CD groups to the adsorbents. Moreover, the isotherms were well fitted by the Freundlich model. After a one-step column chromatographic separation, the purity of phloridzin increased significantly from 14.65 % to 79.48 % for PS-CD, to 66.56 % for PS-GA, 44.68 % for D101, and to 52.84 % for AB-8. This study provides a novel alternative matrix for the purification of phloridzin from Lithocarpus polystachyus Rehd leaves extracts.
Determination of α-chaconine and α-solanine in commercial potato crisps by QuEChERS extraction and UPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Liu Wei , Zhang Nan , Li Bing , Fan Sai , Zhao Rong , Li Li-Ping , Wu Guo-Hua , Zhao Yao
Published: September 2014

A simple and fast analytical method for the determination of the main steroidal glycoalkaloids, α-chaconine and α-solanine, in commercial potato crisps, based on QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, Safe) extraction and ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with an electrospray ionization triple-quadrupole tandem mass spectrometer (UPLC-MS/MS) in the multiple reaction monitoring mode was established and validated. The sample preparation procedure involves the extraction of the analytes with acidified acetonitrile and simultaneous liquid-liquid partitioning achieved by an addition of anhydrous magnesium sulfate and sodium acetate without any further clean-up steps. The limits of quantification (LOQs) for α-chaconine and α-solanine were 31 μg kg−1 and 16 μg kg−1 of fresh mass, respectively, at the signal-to-noise ratio (S/Ns) of 10. The method was applied in a survey of the content of α-chaconine and α-solanine in twenty commercial potato crisps from different brands. The results showed that all the products contained α-chaconine and α-solanine in widely varying concentrations. The amount of α-chaconine was higher than that of α-solanine in all samples.
Three Decades of Structure- and Property-based Molecular Design
Authors: Müller Klaus
Published: September 2014

Roche has pioneered structure- and property-based molecular design to drug discovery. While this is an ongoing development, the past three decades feature key events that have revolutionized the way drug discovery is conducted in Big Pharma industry. It has been a great privilege to
have been involved in this transformation process, to have been able to collaborate with, direct, guide, or simply encourage outstanding experts in various disciplines to build and further develop what has become a major pillar of modern small-molecule drug discovery. This article is an account
of major events that took place since the early decision of Roche to implement computer-assisted molecular modeling 32 years ago and is devoted to the key players involved. It highlights the internal build-up of structural biology, with protein X-ray structure determination at its core, and
the early setup of bioinformatics. It describes the strategic shift to large compound libraries and high-throughput screening with the development of novel compound storage and ultra-high-throughput screening facilities, as well as the strategic return to focused screening of small motif-based
compound libraries. These developments were accompanied by the rise of miniaturized parallel compound property analytics which resulted in a major paradigm shift in medicinal chemistry from linear to multi-dimensional lead optimization. The rapid growth of huge collections of property data
stimulated the development of various novel data mining concepts with 'matched molecular pair' analysis and novel variants thereof playing crucial roles. As compound properties got more prominent in molecular design, exploration of specific structural motifs for property modulation became
a research activity complementary to target-oriented medicinal chemistry. The exploration of oxetane is given as an example. For the sake of brevity, this account cannot detail all further developments that have taken place in each individual area of structure- and property-based drug discovery
and it can only hint at important developments in other disciplines that have equally contributed to major paradigm shifts in Roche's small-molecule drug discovery efforts.
Translational Science: A Catalyst for Real World Applications?
Authors: Lawrence Adrien K.
Published: September 2014

Science is the systemic search for new knowledge and innovative ideas. Scientific knowledge is empirically based and successful replication of the results is a crucial component of it. Translational science connects this knowledge with real world applications in order to address societal
challenges and problems, under the condition that the science-policy interface is taken into account. The aim of this communication is to examine if translational science can be applied to research settings other than health care.
In Memoriam André S. Dreiding
Authors: Woggon Wolf-D.
Published: September 2014

In his talk at the 49th Bürgenstock Conference on Stereochemistry the author paid tribute to André S. Dreiding, the founder of this event.
Aesthetic Value, Ethics and Climate Change
Authors: Brady Emily
Published: September 2014

Philosophical discussions of climate change have mainly conceived of it as a moral or ethical problem, but climate change also raises new challenges for aesthetics. In this paper I show that, in particular, climate change (1) raises difficult questions about the status of aesthetic judgments about the future, or ‘future aesthetics’; and (2) puts into relief some challenging issues at the intersection of aesthetics and ethics. I maintain that we can rely on aesthetic predictions to enable us to grasp, in some sense, aesthetic value in environments affected by climate change and, through a discussion of three hypothetical cases, I argue that, although moral considerations will press on aesthetic judgments, aesthetic value will not necessarily be trumped by them.
Fracking on YouTube: Exploring Risks, Benefits and Human Values
Authors: Jaspal Rusi , Turner Andrew , Nerlich Brigitte
Published: September 2014

Fracking or the extraction of shale gas through hydraulic fracturing of rock has become a contested topic, especially in the United States, where it has been deployed on a large scale, and in Europe where it is still largely speculative. Research is beginning to investigate the environmental and economic costs and benefits as well as public perceptions of this new energy technology. However, so far the social and psychological impact of fracking on those involved in it, such as gas workers, or those living in the vicinity of fracking sites, has escaped the attention of the social science research community. In this article we begin to fill this gap through a small-scale thematic analysis of representations of fracking in fifty YouTube videos, where the trailer of a controversial film, Gasland (Fox, 2010), has had a marked impact. Results show that the videos discuss not only environmental and economic costs and benefits of fracking but also social and psychological impacts on individuals and communities. These videos reveal a human face of fracking that remains all too often hidden from view.
Humility, Self-Awareness, and Religious Ambivalence: Another Look at Beckett's ‘Humanistic Quietism’
Authors: Wimbush Andy
Published: September 2014

This article provides a commentary on the opaque and often contradictory arguments of ‘Humanistic Quietism’, Samuel Beckett's 1934 review of Thomas MacGreevy's Poems. Using Beckett's complicated relationship to both his own Protestant upbringing and the Catholicism of MacGreevy as a starting point, the article proposes new ways of understanding Beckett's ambivalent comments about MacGreevy's interiority, prayer-like poetry, humility, and quietism. It draws on Beckett's comments on Rilke, André Gide, and Arnold Geulincx, as well as his familiarity with Dante, to unpack the review's dense allusions and make sense of Beckett's aesthetic allegiances.
Evaluation of Mechanically and Adhesively Fixed External Insulation Systems Using Vacuum Insulation Panels for High-Rise Apartment Buildings
Authors: Park Sihyun , Choi Bo-Hye , Lim Jae-Han , Song Seung-Yeong
Published: September 2014

Buildings account for a significant portion of a nation’s total energy consumption. To meet the global demand for greater energy efficiency, many countries are drastically strengthening insulation regulations for buildings. Thus, dramatically thicker wall insulation may be required, which can adversely affect the value of a building by reducing its effective floor area. Hence, high-performance insulation materials, such as vacuum insulation panels (VIPs), are of interest in building design. In this study, external insulation systems using VIPs were examined to determine their effectiveness in high-performance insulation systems for high-rise apartment buildings. A variety of mechanically and adhesively fixed external insulation systems with various insulation layer compositions have been proposed as alternatives to conventional internal insulation systems. The performance of conventional insulation systems and the proposed alternatives were compared through three-dimensional heat transfer simulations. The construction costs and the ease of installation of the various systems were also compared. The overall performance of each alternative in terms of the insulation performance, construction costs, and ease of installation was thus evaluated to determine the most effective alternative.
Correction: Stauber, C.E., et al. Evaluation of the Impact of the Plastic BioSand Filter on Health and Drinking Water Quality in Rural Tamale, Ghana. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2012, 9, 3806–3823
Authors: Stauber Christine , Kominek Byron , Liang Kaida , Osman Mumuni , Sobsey Mark
Published: September 2014

The authors wish to make the following amendments to their paper published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health [1]: [...]
Comprehensive Luciferase-Based Reporter Gene Assay Reveals Previously Masked Up-Regulatory Effects of miRNAs
Authors: Campos-Melo Danae , Droppelmann Cristian , Volkening Kathryn , Strong Michael
Published: September 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate the majority of the transcriptome at a post-transcriptional level. Because of this critical role, it is important to ensure that the assays used to determine their functionality are robust and reproducible. Typically, the reporter gene assay in cell-based systems has been the first-line method to study miRNA functionality. In order to overcome some of the potential errors in interpretation that can be associated with this assay, we have developed a detailed protocol for the luciferase reporter gene assay that has been modified for miRNAs. We demonstrate that normalization against the effect of the miRNA and cellular factors on the luciferase coding sequence is essential to obtain the specific impact of the miRNA on the 3'UTR (untranslated region) target. Our findings suggest that there is a real possibility that the roles for miRNA in transcriptome regulation may be misreported due to inaccurate normalization of experimental data and also that up-regulatory effects of miRNAs are not uncommon in cells. We propose to establish this comprehensive method as standard for miRNA luciferase reporter assays to avoid errors and misinterpretations in the functionality of miRNAs.
Porphyra-334 Isolated from the Marine Algae Bangia atropurpurea: Conformational Performance for Energy Conversion
Authors: Chuang Li-Fan , Chou Hong-Nong , Sung Ping-Jyun
Published: September 2014

Prophyra-334 (p-334) may play a role of energy transfer under an uncertain mechanism, and we speculate the possible model. Via 1D and 2D NMR experiments, it was simulated the correlation between dissociation and conformation of p-334. Intramolecular interactions were observed based on a series of changes in the 1H and 13C chemical shifts. Nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy experiments and molecular models in various pD conditions indicated the p-334 molecular dissociation process status. In addition, we also used Chem3D software to find the most possible molecular conformation. The relationship between the structural status and energy conversion is explained. Those are the primary results. More researches on it are highly expected in the future.
Recent Advances in Chemoenzymatic Peptide Syntheses
Authors: Yazawa Kenjiro , Numata Keiji
Published: September 2014

Chemoenzymatic peptide synthesis is the hydrolase-catalyzed stereoselective formation of peptide bonds. It is a clean and mild procedure, unlike conventional chemical synthesis, which involves complicated and laborious protection-deprotection procedures and harsh reaction conditions. The chemoenzymatic approach has been utilized for several decades because determining the optimal conditions for conventional synthesis is often time-consuming. The synthesis of poly- and oligopeptides comprising various amino acids longer than a dipeptide continues to pose a challenge owing to the lack of knowledge about enzymatic mechanisms and owing to difficulty in optimizing the pH, temperature, and other reaction conditions. These drawbacks limit the applications of the chemoenzymatic approach. Recently, a variety of enzymes and substrates produced using recombinant techniques, substrate mimetics, and optimal reaction conditions (e.g., frozen aqueous media and ionic liquids) have broadened the scope of chemoenzymatic peptide syntheses. In this review, we highlight the recent advances in the chemoenzymatic syntheses of various peptides and their use in developing new materials and biomedical applications.
An Improved Method for Dynamic Measurement of Deflections of the Vertical Based on the Maintenance of Attitude Reference
Authors: Dai Dongkai , Wang Xingshu , Zhan Dejun , Huang Zongsheng
Published: September 2014

A new method for dynamic measurement of deflections of the vertical (DOV) is proposed in this paper. The integration of an inertial navigation system (INS) and global navigation satellite system (GNSS) is constructed to measure the body’s attitude with respect to the astronomical coordinates. Simultaneously, the attitude with respect to the geodetic coordinates is initially measured by a star sensor under quasi-static condition and then maintained by the laser gyroscope unit (LGU), which is composed of three gyroscopes in the INS, when the vehicle travels along survey lines. Deflections of the vertical are calculated by using the difference between the attitudes with respect to the geodetic coordinates and astronomical coordinates. Moreover, an algorithm for removing the trend error of the vertical deflections is developed with the aid of Earth Gravitational Model 2008 (EGM2008). In comparison with traditional methods, the new method required less accurate GNSS, because the dynamic acceleration calculation is avoided. The errors of inertial sensors are well resolved in the INS/GNSS integration, which is implemented by a Rauch–Tung–Striebel (RTS) smoother. In addition, a single-axis indexed INS is adopted to improve the observability of the system errors and to restrain the inertial sensor errors. The proposed method is validated by Monte Carlo simulations. The results show that deflections of the vertical can achieve a precision of better than 1″ for a single survey line. The proposed method can be applied to a gravimetry system based on a ground vehicle or ship with a speed lower than 25 m/s.
Love Wave Immunosensor for the Detection of Carbaryl Pesticide
Authors: Rocha-Gaso María-Isabel , García José-Vicente , García Pablo , March-Iborra Carmen , Jiménez Yolanda , Francis Laurent-Alain , Montoya Ángel , Arnau Antonio
Published: September 2014

A Love Wave (LW) immunosensor was developed for the detection of carbaryl pesticide. The experimental setup consisted on: a compact electronic characterization circuit based on phase and amplitude detection at constant frequency; an automated flow injection system; a thermal control unit; a custom-made flow-through cell; and Quartz /SiO2 LW sensors with a 40 μm wavelength and 120 MHz center frequency. The carbaryl detection was based on a competitive immunoassay format using LIB-CNH45 monoclonal antibody (MAb). Bovine Serum Albumin-CNH (BSA-CNH) carbaryl hapten-conjugate was covalently immobilized, via mercaptohexadecanoic acid self-assembled monolayer (SAM), onto the gold sensing area of the LW sensors. This immobilization allowed the reusability of the sensor for at least 70 assays without significant signal losses. The LW immunosensor showed a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.09 μg/L, a sensitivity of 0.31 μg/L and a linear working range of 0.14–1.63 μg/L. In comparison to other carbaryl immunosensors, the LW immunosensor achieved a high sensitivity and a low LOD. These features turn the LW immunosensor into a promising tool for applications that demand a high resolution, such as for the detection of pesticides in drinking water at European regulatory levels.
Icodextrin Simplifies Pd Therapy by Equalizing Uf and Sodium Removal among Patient Transport Types during Long Dwells: A Modeling Study
Authors: Akonur Alp , Sloand James , Davis Ira , Leypoldt John
Published: September 2014

♦ Background

In recent years, results from clinical studies have changed the focus of peritoneal dialysis (PD) adequacy from small solute clearance to volume control, resulting in continued efforts to improve fluid and sodium removal in PD patients. We used a modified 3-pore model to theoretically predict fluid and solute removal using glucose-based and icodextrin solutions for a wide range of transport characteristics with automated PD (APD) and continuous ambulatory PD (CAPD) therapies.

♦ Methods

Simulations were performed for the day (APD: 15-hr, 2.27% glucose and 7.5% icodextrin; CAPD: 3x5-hr, 1.36% and 2.27% glucose) and night (APD: 9-hr, 1.36% glucose; CAPD: 9-hr, 2.27% glucose and 7.5% icodextrin) dialysis periods separately. During APD, the number of night exchanges (N) was varied from 3 to 7. Ultrafiltration (UF), sodium removal (NaR), total carbohydrate absorption (CHO), UF efficiency (UFE), and sodium removal efficiency (NaRE) were calculated. Typical patients in fast (i.e. high, H), average (high-average, HA; low-average, LA), and slow (low, L) transport groups with no residual kidney function were considered.

♦Results

The effective dwell times varied between 1.0 and 14.7 hours depending on the number of exchanges. With glucose-based solutions, differences in UF and NaR between H and L transport patients ranged from 140 mL and 2 mmol (APD night, n = 7) to 778 mL and 56.4 mmol (CAPD day, 2.27%). With icodextrin, differences in UF and NaR ranged from 1 mL and 1.1 mmol (CAPD night) to 59 mL and 6.1 mmol (APD day). The use of icodextrin resulted in greater CHO than 2.27% glucose (APD: 27.1 – 35.6 g more; CAPD: 17.1 – 17.5 g more). The UFE and NaRE were greater for all patients with icodextrin than with glucose-based solution in both therapy modalities, except for slow transport patients in CAPD.

♦ Conclusion

This modeling study shows that the dependence of UF and NaR on patient transport type observed with glucose-based solutions can be minimized using icodextrin during the long dwells of APD and CAPD. While this approach simplifies the PD prescription by minimizing the dependencies of ultrafiltration and sodium removal on patient transport type when using icodextrin, it improves fluid and sodium removal efficiencies in fast and average transport patients without any added glucose exposure.
Risk Factors for Mortality in Chinese Patients on Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Zhang Fan , Liu Hong , Gong Xiaoli , Liu Fuyou , Peng Youming , Cheng Meichu , Zhang Hongqing , Liu Yang , Liu Yuyuan , Guo Chunyan
Published: September 2014

Objective

The intent of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome and risk factors affecting mortality of the continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients in a single peritoneal dialysis (PD) center over a period of 10 years.

Patients and methods

We retrospectively analyzed patients on PD from June 2001 to June 2011. The clinical and biochemical data were collected from the medical records. Clinical variables included gender, age at the start of PD, smoking status, body mass index (BMI), cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD), presence of diabetes mellitus and blood pressure. Biochemical variables included hemoglobin, urine volume, residual renal function (RRF), serum albumin, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, total cholesterol, triglyceride, comorbidities, and outcomes. Survival curves were made by the Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate and multivariate analyses to identify mortality risk factors were performed using the Cox proportional hazard regression model.

Results

A total of 421 patients were enrolled, 269 of whom were male (63.9%). The mean age at the start of PD was 57.9 ± 14.8 years. Chronic glomerulonephritis was the most common cause of ESRD (39.4%). Estimation of patient survival by Kaplan-Meier was 92.5%, 80.2%, 74.4%, and 55.7% at 1, 3, 5, and 10 years, respectively. Patient survival was associated with age (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.641 [1.027 – 2.622], p = 0.038), cardiovascular disease (HR: 1.731 [1.08 – 2.774], p = 0.023), hypertriglyceridemia (HR: 1.782 [1.11 – 2.858], p = 0.017) in the Cox proportional hazards model analysis. Estimation of technique survival by Kaplan-Meier was 86.7%, 68.8%, 55.7%, and 37.4% at 1, 3, 5, and 10 years, respectively. In the Cox proportional hazards model analysis, age (HR: 1.672 [1.176 – 2.377], p = 0.004) and hypertriglyceridemia (HR: 1.511 [1.050 – 2.174], p = 0.026) predicted technique failure.

Conclusion

The PD patients in our center exhibited comparable or even superior patient survival and technical survival rates, compared with reports from other centers in China and other countries.
Characterization of the Brazpd ii Cohort and Description of Trends in Peritoneal Dialysis Outcome across Time Periods
Authors: de Moraes Thyago Proença , Figueiredo Ana Elizabeth , de Campos Ludimila Guedim , Olandoski Marcia , Barretti Pasqual , Pecoits-Filho Roberto
Published: September 2014

Observational studies from different regions of the world provide valuable information in patient selection, clinical practice, and their relationship to patient and technique outcome. The present study is the first large cohort providing patient characteristics, clinical practice, patterns and their relationship to outcomes in Latin America. The objective of the present study was to characterize the cohort and to describe the main determinants of patient and technique survival, including trends over time of peritoneal dialysis (PD) initiation and treatment.

This was a nationwide cohort study in which all incident adult patients on PD from 122 centers were studied. Patient demographics, socioeconomic and laboratory values were followed from December 2004 to January 2011 and, for comparison purposes, divided into 3 groups according to the year of starting PD: 2005/06, 2007/08 and 2009/10. Patient survival and technique failure (TF) were analyzed using the competing risk model of Fine and Gray. All patients active at the end of follow-up were treated as censored. In contrast, all patients who dropped the study for any reason different from the primary event of interest were treated as competing risk. Significance was set to a p level of 0.05.

A total of 9,905 patients comprised the adult database, 7,007 were incident and 5,707 remained at least 90 days in PD. The main cause of dropout was death (54%) and of TF was peritonitis (63%). Technique survival at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years was 91%, 84%, 77%, 68%, and 58%, respectively. There was no change in TF during the study period but 3 independent risk factors were identified: lower center experience, lower age, and automated PD (APD) as initial therapy. Cardiovascular disease (36%) was the main cause of death and the overall patient survival was 85%, 74%, 64%, 54%, and 48% at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years, respectively. Patient survival improved along all study periods: compared to 2005/2006, patients starting at 2007/2008 had a relative risk reduction (SHR) of 0.83 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.72 – 0.95); and starting in 2009/2010 of 0.69 (95% CI 0.57 – 0.83). The independent risk factors for mortality were diabetes, age > 65 years, previous hemodialysis, starting PD modality, white race, low body mass index (BMI), low educational level, center experience, length of pre-dialysis care, and the year of starting PD.

We observed an improvement in patient survival along the years. This finding was sustained even after correction for several confounders and using a competing risk approach. On the other hand, no changes in technique survival were found.
Prospective Randomized Study Comparing a Single-Cuff Self-Locating Catheter with a Single-Cuff Straight Tenckhoff Catheter in Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Sanchez-Canel Juan J. , Garcia-Perez Hector , Garcia-Calvo Rafael , Pascual Maria J. , Casado David
Published: September 2014

♦ Objectives

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheters are critical to the success of the technique. However, few studies provide evidence about which design helps to reduce complications. Self-locating catheters (SLCs) are used to avoid displacement of the catheter tip. The incidence of mechanical and infectious complications and catheter survival rate were assessed in Tenckhoff PD catheters.

♦ Design

The prospective randomized study compared drainage problems in 40 incident PD patients using a single-cuff SLCs and 38 patients using a single-cuff, straight Tenckhoff catheter (TC).

♦Results

No significant differences were observed in the number of complications in the Pre period (from the insertion of the catheter to the start of the technique); however, the number of complications was lower in the SLC group during Post ( p = 0.021) and Total period ( p = 0.048). The number of problems related to catheter malfunction for each period: Pre, Post, and Total, was significantly lower with SLCs vs TCs ( p = 0.018, p = 0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively). Problems were solved more easily with SLCs, using laxatives, with less need for fluoroscopic placement and no need for surgical replacement, as opposed to the TC group: Pre (not significant), Post ( p = 0.007), and Total ( p = 0.011). Median survival was 39.6 months (30.9 – 48.3) for SLCs and 30.1 months (22.6 – 37.5) for TCs, which is not a significant difference. However, SLCs have a higher malposition-free survival rate. Multivariate logistic regression models only included the variable “type of catheter” as a predictor of malfunction during the Pre period (odds ratio [OR] = 4.154). The Post period included the variables, “type of catheter” (OR = 7.701) and “age” (OR = 1.047), and the Total period only included the variable “type of catheter” (OR = 4.487), which indicates an increased probability of malfunction with the use of TCs vs SLCs. The variables (gender, previous intra-abdominal surgery, body mass index (BMI) and diabetes mellitus) did not add predictive value to the models ( p > 0.05).

♦ Conclusion

The study confirms the hypothesis that TCs have more malfunctions and a lower malposition-free survival rate than SLCs, and TCs are considered as the highest risk factor for malfunction during all study periods.
Serum Cystatin C Does Not Predict Mortality or Treatment Failure in Peritoneal Dialysis: A Prospective Study
Authors: Delaney Michael P. , Stevens Paul E. , Witham Helen J. , Judge Caroline , Eaglestone Gillian L. , Carter Joanne L. , Bassett Paul , Lamb Edmund J.
Published: September 2014

♦ Background

Small solute clearance, especially that derived from residual renal function (RRF), is an independent risk factor for death in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Assessment of solute clearance is time-consuming and prone to multiple errors. Cystatin C is a small protein which has been used as a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) marker. We investigated whether serum cystatin C concentrations are related to mortality in patients receiving PD.

♦ Methods

New and prevalent PD patients ( n = 235) underwent assessment of Kt/Vurea, RRF, weekly creatinine clearance (CCr), normalized protein catabolic rate (nPCR) and a peritoneal equilibration test (PET) at intervals. Blood was collected simultaneously for cystatin C measurement. Patients were followed for a median of 1,429 days (range 12 to 2,964 days) until death or study closure. Cause of death was recorded where given. Cox regression was performed to determine whether cystatin C had prognostic value either independently or with adjustment for other factors (age, sex, dialysis modality, diabetic status, cardiovascular comorbidity, Kt/V, CCr, RRF, nPCR or 4 h dialysate to plasma creatinine ratio (4 h D/Pcr) during the PET). The primary outcomes were all-cause mortality and treatment failure.

♦Results

There were 93 deaths. Increasing age and 4 h D/Pcr ratio, decreased RRF and presence of diabetes were significantly [ p < 0.05] negatively associated with survival and treatment failure. Serum cystatin C was not related to either outcome.

♦ Conclusions

Serum cystatin C concentration does not predict mortality or treatment failure in patients receiving PD.
Gérer et contrôler le temps de l'interface prestataire-usager dans les services publics
Authors: Meyssonnier François , Tahar Caroline
Published: September 2014

Dans les services, le temps est une ressource centrale de l’interface prestataire-usager du fait de la coproduction de la prestation. Nous avons cherché à comprendre comment la gestion du temps de l’interface prestataire-usager peut contribuer à accroître la performance des services publics. Un cadre théorique de la gestion du temps de l’interface qui croise le regard du prestataire et celui du bénéficiaire et combine la perspective du contrôle de gestion et celle du marketing est proposé. Quatre modes de gestion du temps de l’interface prestataire-usager sont identifiés dans un cadre d’analyse global. Ce cadre d’analyse est ensuite utilisé pour distinguer quatre modes de contrôle de gestion du temps.
Quand des femmes au sommet se racontent
Authors: Belghiti-Mahut Sophia , Lafont Anne-Laurence , Rodhain Angélique , Rodhain Florence
Published: September 2014

Le sens donné à leur expérience du leadership, par quatre femmes ayant atteint le sommet hiérarchique de leurs organisations. La première est Maire d’une commune de plus de 200.000 habitants en France. La seconde est Présidente d’Université, la troisième est Directrice de distribution d’une très grande banque privée et la quatrième est Dirigeante d’entreprise et Présidente d’un réseau d’entreprises.
Efecto del envejecimiento natural sobre la microestructura, propiedades mecánicas, resistencia a corrosión y fractura en uniones soldadas de acero para tubería API5L X52
Authors: Vargas-Arista Benjamín , Albiter Apolinar , García-Vázquez Felipe , Mendoza-Camargo Óscar , Hallen José Manuel
Published: September 2014

Se realizó un estudio de caracterización para analizar cómo la microestructura afecta a las propiedades mecánicas, corrosión y fractura de la zona afectada por calor (ZAC), soldadura y metal base para tubería envejecida naturalmente durante 21 años a 30 °C. Los resultados indicaron que las microestructuras presentaron daño y consecuentemente reducción en propiedades mecánicas, como consecuencia del envejecimiento por servicio. El estudio mediante MEB mostró que el metal base presenta grano ferrítico grueso. La prueba de tensión indicó que las microestructuras mostraron fluencia discontinua. La mayor resistencia a la tracción se presentó en la soldadura, la cual alcanzó menor energía de impacto en comparación con la ZAC y metal base asociado con fractura frágil por clivaje transgranular. La degradación de las propriedades está en relación con el engrosamiento de nanocarburos observados a través del análisis de imágenes por MET, lo que se confirmó mediante fractografía por MEB de superfícies de fractura bajo tensión e impacto. La soldadura alcanzó la mayor densidad de microhuecos y la mayor susceptibilidad a la corrosión en un medio conteniendo H2S que cuando se compara con la ZAC y metal base.