bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychological Impacts of Infertility Among Married Women Attending in a Tertiary Hospital, Dhaka
Authors: Alam Md Julfikkar , Rahman Md Mahfuzar , Afsana Nister E
Published: March 2018

Background: Infertility being a medical problem leads to various psychological problems. The stress of the non-fulfillment of a wish for a child has been associated with emotional sequel such as depression, anger, marital problems among infertile women. The study investigates the psychological impacts of infertility among married women suffering from infertility.Material and Methods: This cross sectional descriptive study was carried out on 112 purposively selected infertile married women in outpatient department of Kormitola General Hospital, Dhaka. The Goldberg Depression questionnaires (GDQ) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were administered to 112 married women with infertility. In addition to socio-demographic data, a structured questionnaire was used to collect obstetric information from the participants.Results: The study showed 70 (62.5%) infertile women showed different levels of depression (GDQ scale). Of these, 12 (10.7%) had minor to moderate and 36 (32.1%) had moderate to severe level of depression. According to BAI, 42 (37.5%) responded suffered with anxiety disorders among them 14 (12.5%) had moderate anxiety and 28 (25.0%) potentially concerning levels of anxiety. Infertile women are worst victim of psychological morbidities with increasing age. Study showed that about 54% infertile women of more than 31years of age were suffering from minor to severe depression. Women who were infertile lower than 5 years, had lowest psychological disorders (c2=21.34, P=.001 and c2=8.5, P=.01). About anxiety, women married for more than 11 years were the worst sufferer. Women neglected by their husband had a higher prevalence for psychiatric morbidity (c2=12.22, P=.002). Women suffering from infertility scored significantly higher on all outcome measures of psychopathology. The results of the multiple regression analysis showed that the socio-demographic variables of the women with infertility contributed to the prediction of psychiatric morbidity (GDQ sacle), because of the effects of age, not having at least one child and lack of support from husband. Monthly family income, negligence of husband and violence by in laws family were important predicator for anxiety. Type of family, low level of education, unemployment were not found to be predictors of mental ill health.Conclusion: Infertility is associated with high levels of psychiatric morbidity. Our findings reinforce the need of attention, counseling and others advance psychological interventions for positive impact on outcome during treatment of this group of women.Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 9, No. 1: Jan 2018, P 10-14
Concurrent Carotid Endarterectomy and off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery in Bangladesh: a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ranjan Redoy , Adhikary Dipannita , Saha Heemel , Saha Sanjoy Kumar , Mandal Sabita , Hasan Kamrul , Adhikary Asit Baran
Published: March 2018

Background: A patient of ischemic coronary artery disease (IHD) with additional carotid artery stenosis (CAS) has been distinguished as a high risk group for both heart and cerebral inconveniences following surgical intervention. We review the outcome of concurrent carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and off-pump coronary bypass grafting (OPCABG)in a patient undergoing surgical revascularization for IHD and CAS in a single surgeons practice.Materials and Methods: In the vicinity of January 2012 and December2016,fifteen patients experienced OPCABG and CEA associatively in a single Surgeon's Practice. Majority 46.66% patient have 75-90% Carotid artery stenosis and 40%patients experienced right sided lesion, though 53.33% experienced left sided lesion. 33.33% patients were found Left main coronary artery disease (>50% lesion) and 100% patients have had significant LAD lesion in this study. CEA was performed before OPCABG in all cases.Result: Themean age was 62.5±2.8 years; 80% were male. 13.33% had a perioperative stroke while one of them had TIAs (6.6%). Mean ICU stay was 36.6±4.5 hours and patients were released in 10±2 days. There was no mortality in the early postoperative period and co-morbidity was less significant; only 6.6% myocardial ischemia, 13.33% Atrial fibrillation, 6.66% TIA, and 13.33% Stroke.Conclusion: A combined strategy by means of CEA with OPCABG is safe and savvy in view of the satisfactory consequences of morbidity and mortality rates and also short ICU and hospital stay status.Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 9, No. 1: Jan 2018, P 15-21
Relationship Between Serum Ferritin Level and Hba1c in Bangladeshi Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Khondker Farhana , Roy Manindra Nath , Saha Purnima Rani , Huq Rubena , Ahmed Rumana , Biswas Sumona
Published: March 2018

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) type 2 is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting more than 135 million people in the world. The etiology of the disease is not fully understood, but recently subclinical hemochromatosis has been considered as one of the probable causes of DM. This study was carried out to examine the relationship between serum ferritin as a marker of iron overload with DM and HbA1c.Materials & Method: This study was conducted in the Biochemistry department of Sir Salimullah Medical College, Dhaka; over a period of 18 months from July 2013 to December 2014. In this case control study, 46 patients with type 2 diabetes were taken as case, who were referred to theoutpatient department of "Ibrahim General Hospital & Diabetic care & Educational Center"(DCEC). 46 normal individuals were included as the control group, who were matched with the case group regarding age, sex, BMI and Hb%. Ferritin, hemoglobin, HbA1c and fasting plasma sugar were measured in blood samples. Exclusion criteria included anaemia, or any other disease or drug that could affect ferritin levels.Result: Results were analyzed statistically by Chi-square test, Student's t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient test and Odds ratio.Mean serum ferritin was significantly higher in diabetics than in the control group (197.97±75.99 µgm/L vs. 64.24±27.83 µgm/L, p<0.001). There was significant positive correlation between serum ferritin and HbA1cin diabetic patients (p<0.001). In this study, OR of 11.64 was also found.Conclusion: Serum ferritin is positively correlated with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. And this may be an important and independent predictor for development of diabetes mellitus.Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 9, No. 1: Jan 2018, P 29-33
Antenatal Sonographic Diagnosis of a Case of Alobar Holoprosencephaly
Authors: Rima Shamim , Aziz Md Tarik , Amin Rumana , Abedin M Afsar
Published: March 2018

Holoprosencephaly, a disorder resulting from failure of cleavage or incomplete differentiation of the forebrain structures at various levels or to various degrees, is related to hereditary factors, chromosomal anomalies, cytogenetic abnormalities, and environmental teratogenic factors. This anomaly is resulted from the failure of diverticulation and cleavage of primitive prosencephalon during weeks 4-8 of gestation. In this study, we described a case of HPE in a neonate with gestational age of 35 weeks.Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 9, No. 1: Jan 2018, P 68-70
Arbovirus hit the capital
Authors: Rasul Choudhury Habibur
Published: March 2018

Abstract not availableBang Med J (Khulna) 2017; 50 : 1-2
Outcome of treatment of OPC poisoning patients with atropine or atropine plus pralidoxime
Authors: Kamal SM , Akhter Shamima , Ahmed Sk Farid Uddin , Chowdhury Poritosh Kumar , Rashid AKM Mamunur , Islam Md Nazrul
Published: March 2018

Background: Organophosphorus compound (OPC) poisoning is common in Bangladesh and management facility is not adequate in most hospitals. Both inj. Atropine and inj. Pralidoxime is used as antidote for the management of OPC poisoning, although there is controversy regarding benefit of inj. Pralidoxime.Objective: This randomised clinical trial was conducted to compare the outcome of OPC poisoning patients treated by inj. Atropine along with supportive measures and by inj. Atropine plus inj. Pralidoxime along with supportive measures . This study also evaluated the clinical profile of OPC poisoning patients.Methods: A total number of 109 patients, admitted in medicine ward in Khulna medical college hospital during one year period were included in this randomised clinical trial. The patients were divided into two groups according to alternate day of admission in the medicine wards. Forty nine patients of group A was treated by inj. atropine only along with other supportive measures required and group B of 60 patients was treated by inj. atropine plus inj. pralidoxime along with supportive measures.Results: 49 patients of group A was treated with atropine alone and 60 patients in group B was treated with atropine plus pralidoxime. Death rate was 14.28% in atropine treated group and 16.66% in atropine plus pralidoxime treated group (p=0.733). The difference in death rate is not statistically significant. Four (8.18%) patients from atropine treated group and 4 (6.67%) patients from pralidoxime intervention group developed respiratory failure and ventilatory support was given in ICU. These 8 patients recovered. But this difference in development of respiratory failure is not statistically significant (p=0.766). The difference of death rate between male and female (12.5% Vs 18.87%) is not also significant (p=0.360).Conclusion: This study reveals that pralidoxime provides no better outcome in the management of OPC poisoning patients.Bang Med J (Khulna) 2017; 50 : 3-7
Cutaneous atypical mycobacteriosis
Authors: Sultana Razia , Wahiduzzaman Md
Published: March 2018

Mycobacterium chelonae rarely causes skin infection, usually after minor trauma. A 44 year old lady complained of skin rashes on left lateral back above the flank for 6 months. Physical examination showed multiple papulo-pustular eruption and sinus on an erythematous base. Repeated histopathological examination did not give any authentic clue. Ultimately on clinical ground and therapeutic trial, it was diagnosed as rapidly growing atypical mycobacterial (Mycobacterium chelonae) infection.Bang Med J (Khulna) 2017; 50 : 44-45
Macrophage-Derived Protein S Facilitates Apoptotic Polymorphonuclear Cell Clearance by Resolution Phase Macrophages and Supports Their Reprogramming
Authors: Lumbroso Delphine , Soboh Soaad , Maimon Avi , Schif-Zuck Sagie , Ariel Amiram , Burstyn-Cohen Tal
Published: March 2018

The complete resolution of inflammation requires the uptake of apoptotic polymorphonuclear cells (PMN) by local macrophages (efferocytosis) and the consequent reprogramming of the engulfing phagocytes to reparative and pro-resolving phenotypes. The tyrosine kinase receptors TYRO3, AXL, and MERTK (collectively named TAM) are fundamental mediators in regulating inflammatory responses and efferocytosis. Protein S (PROS1) is a ligand for all TAM receptors that mediates various aspects of their activity. However, the involvement of PROS1 in the resolution of inflammation is incompletely understood. Here, we report the upregulation ofPros1in macrophages during the resolution of inflammation. Selective knockout ofPros1in the myeloid lineage significantly downregulated macrophage pro-resolving properties. Hence,Pros1-deficient macrophages engulfed fewer apoptotic PMN remnantsin vivo, and exogenous PROS1 rescued impaired efferocytosisex vivo. Moreover,Pros1-deficient peritoneal macrophages secreted higher levels of the pro-inflammatory mediators TNFα and CCL3, while they secreted lower levels of the reparative/anti-inflammatory IL-10 following exposure to lipopolysaccharide in comparison to their WT counterparts. Moreover,Pros1-deficient macrophages expressed less of the anti-inflammatory/pro-resolving enzymes arginase-1 and 12/15-lipoxygenase and produced less of the specialized pro-resolving mediator resolvin D1. Altogether, our results suggest that macrophage-derived PROS1 is an important effector molecule in regulating the efferocytosis, maturation, and reprogramming of resolution phase macrophages, and imply that PROS1 could provide a new therapeutic target for inflammatory and fibrotic disorders.
On the Vehicle Sideslip Angle Estimation: A Literature Review of Methods, Models, and Innovations
Authors: Chindamo Daniel , Lenzo Basilio , Gadola Marco
Published: March 2018

Typical active safety systems that control the dynamics of passenger cars rely on the real-time monitoring of the vehicle sideslip angle (VSA), together with other signals such as the wheel angular velocities, steering angle, lateral acceleration, and the rate of rotation about the vertical axis, which is known as the yaw rate. The VSA (also known as the attitude or “drifting” angle) is defined as the angle between the vehicle’s longitudinal axis and the direction of travel, taking the centre of gravity as a reference. It is basically a measure of the misalignment between vehicle orientation and trajectory; therefore, it is a vital piece of information enabling directional stability assessment, such as in transience following emergency manoeuvres, for instance. As explained in the introduction, the VSA is not measured directly for impracticality, and it is estimated on the basis of available measurements such as wheel velocities, linear and angular accelerations, etc. This work is intended to provide a comprehensive literature review on the VSA estimation problem. Two main estimation methods have been categorised, i.e., observer-based and neural network-based, focussing on the most effective and innovative approaches. As the first method normally relies on a vehicle model, a review of the vehicle models has been included. The advantages and limitations of each technique have been highlighted and discussed.
A Biomimetic Approach for Designing a Full External Breast Prosthesis: Post-Mastectomy
Authors: Cruz Pedro , Hernandez F. , Zuñiga Ma. , Rodríguez Jose , Figueroa Rafael , Vertiz Antonio , Pineda Zaira
Published: March 2018

This work presents the design of a new breast prosthesis using the biomimetic technique for cases of complete mastectomy to address the problem of the increasing number of women diagnosed with breast cancer in Mexico who are candidates for a mastectomy. The designed prosthesis considers the morphology of a real breast regarding its internal structure to obtain authentic mobility and feel. In order to accomplish this, a model was obtained in 3D CAD using a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) that can be scalable without losing its qualities, and which can be used in any type of patient; afterwards, a finite element model was developed and a static analysis performed with suggested load cases to evaluate the sensitivity and naturalness of the prosthesis; and finally, a modal analysis was conducted. The results obtained in displacements and in distribution of stress for the load cases assessed are consistent with those of a real breast: there were smooth contours and there was natural mobility in the prosthesis designed by means of the biomimetic technique.
Bloch-Surface-Polariton-Based Hybrid Nanowire Structure for Subwavelength, Low-Loss Waveguiding
Authors: Kong Weijing , Wan Yuhang , Zhao Wenhui , Li Shuna , Zheng Zheng
Published: March 2018

Surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) have been thoroughly studied in the past decades for not only sensing but also waveguiding applications. Various plasmonic device structures have been explored due to their ability to confine their optical mode to the subwavelength level. However, with the existence of metal, the large ohmic loss limits the propagation distance of the SPP and thus the scalability of such devices. Therefore, different hybrid waveguides have been proposed to overcome this shortcoming. Through fine tuning of the coupling between the SPP and a conventional waveguide mode, a hybrid mode could be excited with decent mode confinement and extended propagation distance. As an effective alternative of SPP, Bloch surface waves have been re-investigated more recently for their unique advantages. As is supported in all-dielectric structures, the optical loss for the Bloch surface wave is much lower, which stands for a much longer propagating distance. Yet, the confinement of the Bloch surface wave due to the reflections and refractions in the multilayer structure is not as tight as that of the SPP. In this work, by integrating a periodic multilayer structure that supports the Bloch surface wave with a metallic nanowire structure, a hybrid Bloch surface wave polariton could be excited. With the proposed hybrid nanowire structure, a hybrid mode is demonstrated with the deep subwavelength mode confinement and a propagation distance of tens of microns.
On Transcendental Numbers: New Results and a Little History
Authors: Marcus Solomon , Nichita Florin
Published: March 2018

Bringing toghether mathematical and philosophical ideas related to transcendental numbers, this paper begins with a survey on transcendence and transcendental numbers, it then presents several properties of the transcendental numbers e and π , and then it gives the proof of a new inequality for transcendental numbers. Also, in relationship with these topics, we study solutions to the Yang-Baxter equation from hyperbolic functions and from logical implication.
Multi-Peak Double-Dwell GPS Weak Signal Acquisition Method and VLSI Implementation for Energy-Constrained Applications
Authors: Wang Zhen , Zhang Hengfeng , Wang Min , Liu Xinning , Zhuang Yuan , Cai Hao , Yang Jun , Shi Longxing
Published: March 2018

Power consumption of Global Positioning System (GPS) acquisition is a great challenge for energy-constrained applications. In this work, a metric named acquisition mean computation overhead is proposed to measure the energy cost. A novel multi-peak double-dwell (MP/DD) acquisition method for GPS weak signal is proposed. It adopts multi-peak correlation results as candidates in the first acquisition dwell and selects the largest one as the final acquisition result in the second acquisition dwell. Theoretical analysis and numerical simulation are presented in detail. Meanwhile, the very-large-scale integration (VLSI) implementation of coarse- and fine-grained acquisition engines applied to the proposed method is done. The detection probability and acquisition mean computation overhead are simulated using the Monte-Carlo method, and its mean acquisition power is tested with an actual chip. We fabricated the GPS signal acquisition engine with a 40 nm complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) process. The simulation results demonstrate that detection probability is promoted from 18% to 67% when signal power is equal to 23 dB/Hz. The acquisition mean computation overhead is reduced greatly by 64%. Measurement results show that the energy consumption of this design is only 21.5% of the conventional double-dwell/maximum (DD/MAX) method.
Polarization Potential Has No Effect on Maximum Current Density Produced by Halotolerant Bioanodes
Authors: González-Muñoz Muriel , Dominguez-Benetton Xochitl , Domínguez-Maldonado Jorge , Valdés-Lozano David , Pacheco-Catalán Daniella , Ortega-Morales Otto , Alzate-Gaviria Liliana
Published: March 2018

Halotolerant bioanodes are considered an attractive alternative in microbial electrochemical systems, as they can operate under higher conductive electrolytes, in comparison with traditional wastewater and freshwater bioanodes. The dependency between energetic performance and polarization potential has been addressed in several works; however the vast majority discusses its effect when wastewater or freshwater inocula are employed, and fewer reports focus on inocula from highly-saline environments. Moreover, the effect of the polarization potential on current production is not fully understood. To determine if the polarization potential has a significant effect on current production, eight bioanodes were grown by chronoamperometry at positive and negative potentials relative to the reference electrode (+0.34 V/SHE and −0.16 V/SHE), in a three-electrode set-up employing sediments from a hyperhaline coastal lagoon. The maximum current density obtained was the same, despite the differences in the applied potential. Our findings indicate that even if differences in organic matter removal and coulombic efficiency are obtained, the polarization potential had no statistically significant effect on overall current density production.
Reactive Power Optimization for Distribution Network Based on Distributed Random Gradient-Free Algorithm
Authors: Xie Jun , Liang Chunxiang , Xiao Yichen
Published: March 2018

The increasing penetration of distributed energy resources in distribution systems has brought a number of network management and operational challenges; reactive power variation has been identified as one of the dominant effects. Enormous growth in a variety of controllable devices that have complex control requirements are integrated in distribution networks. The operation modes of traditional centralized control are difficult to tackle these problems with central controller. When considering the non-linear multi-objective functions with discrete and continuous optimization variables, the proposed random gradient-free algorithm is employed to the optimal operation of controllable devices for reactive power optimization. This paper presents a distributed reactive power optimization algorithm that can obtain the global optimum solution based on random gradient-free algorithm for distribution network without requiring a central coordinator. By utilizing local measurements and local communications among capacitor banks and distributed generators (DGs), the proposed reactive power control strategy can realize the overall network voltage optimization and power loss minimization simultaneously. Simulation studies on the modified IEEE-69 bus distribution systems demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed reactive power optimization strategy.
How Data Will Transform Industrial Processes: Crowdsensing, Crowdsourcing and Big Data as Pillars of Industry 4.0
Authors: Pilloni Virginia
Published: March 2018

We are living in the era of the fourth industrial revolution, namely Industry 4.0. This paper presents the main aspects related to Industry 4.0, the technologies that will enable this revolution, and the main application domains that will be affected by it. The effects that the introduction of Internet of Things (IoT), Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), crowdsensing, crowdsourcing, cloud computing and big data will have on industrial processes will be discussed. The main objectives will be represented by improvements in: production efficiency, quality and cost-effectiveness; workplace health and safety, as well as quality of working conditions; products’ quality and availability, according to mass customisation requirements. The paper will further discuss the common denominator of these enhancements, i.e., data collection and analysis. As data and information will be crucial for Industry 4.0, crowdsensing and crowdsourcing will introduce new advantages and challenges, which will make most of the industrial processes easier with respect to traditional technologies.
Interference Management in Femtocells by the Adaptive Network Sensing Power Control Technique
Authors: Hassan Tehseen , Gao Fei , Jalal Babur , Arif Sheeraz
Published: March 2018

The overlay integration of low-power femtocells over macrocells in a heterogeneous network (HetNet) plays an important role in dealing with the increasing demand of spectral efficiency, coverage and higher data rates, at a nominal cost to network operators. However, the downlink (DL) transmission power of an inadequately deployed femtocell causes inter-cell interference (ICI), which leads to severe degradation and sometimes link failure for nearby macrocell users. In this paper, we propose an adaptive network sensing (ANS) technique for downlink power control to obviate the ICI. The simulation results have shown that the ANS power control technique successfully decreases the cell-edge macro user’s interference and enhances the throughput performance of macro users, while also optimizing the coverage and capacity of the femtocell. When compared with the Femto User Equipment (FUE)-assisted and Macro User Equipment (MUE)-assisted power control technique, the proposed technique offers a good tradeoff in reducing interference to macro users, while maintaining the quality of service (QoS) requirement of the femtocell users.
Functional Anthocyanin-Rich Sausages Diminish Colorectal Cancer in an Animal Model and Reduce Pro-Inflammatory Bacteria in the Intestinal Microbiota
Authors: Fernández Javier , García Lorena , Monte Joaquín , Villar Claudio , Lombó Felipe
Published: March 2018

Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common neoplasia in Europe, where it accounts for 28.2 new cases per 100,000 inhabitants. In an effort to decrease the incidence of this disease, various prevention measures are being studied, one of which are anthocyanin-rich foods. Anthocyanins are potent antioxidant flavonoids mainly found in flowers and colorful fruits and vegetables. These nutraceuticals have diverse biological functions once ingested, including immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antitumor functions. In order to test the preventive effect of these flavonoids against colorectal cancer, an animal model (Rattus norvegicus F344) was developed. In this model two doses of azoxymethane (10 mg/kg) and two treatments with dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) were administered to the animals. For 20 weeks they were fed either control rat feed, control sausages, or functional sausages containing 0.1% (w/w) of anthocyanins from a mixture of dehydrated blackberries and strawberries. At the end of that period, the animals were sacrificed and their antioxidant plasma levels and digestive tract tissues were analyzed. The results revealed a statistically significant reduction in the number of colon tumors in the functional sausages cohort with respect to the control animals and an increase in the FRAP (ferric reducing ability of plasma) total antioxidant activity in that same cohort. Colon microbiota differences were also examined via metagenomics 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequencing, revealing a significant reduction in populations of the pro-inflammatory Bilophila wadsworthia. Therefore, the design of functional processed meat products, such as ones enriched with anthocyanins, may be an effective strategy for preventing inflammatory digestive diseases and colorectal cancer in human populations.
The Unforeseen Non-Coding RNAs in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Irimie Alexandra , Zimta Alina-Andreea , Ciocan Cristina , Mehterov Nikolay , Dudea Diana , Braicu Cornelia , Berindan-Neagoe Ioana
Published: March 2018

Previously ignored non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have become the subject of many studies. However, there is an imbalance in the amount of consideration that ncRNAs are receiving. Some transcripts such as microRNAs (miRNAs) or small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) have gained much attention, but it is necessary to investigate other “pieces of the RNA puzzle”. These can offer a more complete view over normal and pathological cell behavior. The other ncRNA species are less studied, either due to their recent discovery, such as stable intronic sequence RNA (sisRNA), YRNA, miRNA-offset RNAs (moRNA), telomerase RNA component (TERC), natural antisense transcript (NAT), transcribed ultraconserved regions (T-UCR), and pseudogene transcript, or because they are still largely seen as non-coding transcripts with no relevance to pathogenesis. Moreover, some are still considered housekeeping RNAs, for instance small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) and TERC. Our review summarizes the biogenesis, mechanism of action and potential role of less known ncRNAs in head and neck cancer, with a particular focus on the installment and progress for this particular cancer type.
Tests of Racial Discrimination in a Simple Financial Market: Managers in Major League Baseball
Authors: Paul Rodney , Weinbach Andrew , Mattingly Justin
Published: March 2018

This study tests for racial discrimination against minority managers in Major League Baseball using financial-market imbalances as it relates to the wagering marketplace for the sport. Using detailed betting data on the percentage bet on the favorite from Sports Insights, we test for prejudice against minority mangers using an ordinary least squares multiple regression model. The results reveal that bettors have a clear preference for the favored team as the percentage bet on the favorite increases with the odds on the favorite. In addition, they prefer road favorites by an even greater margin. In terms of minority managers, there is no evidence of discrimination against minorities. In fact, bettors prefer to wager on minority managers by a statistically significant margin when they are favorites. This finding suggests that either the participants in this financial marketplace are not prejudiced against minority managers or the financial incentives inherent in the market drive out discrimination against the minority managers.
Biochemical and Physiological Characteristics of Photosynthesis in Plants of Two Calathea Species
Authors: Nguyen Hoang , Lin Kuan-Hung , Hsiung Tung-Chuan , Huang Meng-Yuan , Yang Chi-Ming , Weng Jen-Hsien , Hsu Ming-Huang , Chen Po-Yen , Chang Kai-Chieh
Published: March 2018

Plants of the genus Calathea possess many leaf colors, and they are economically important because they are widely used as ornamentals for interior landscaping. Physiological performances and photosynthetic capacities of C. insignis and C. makoyana were investigated. The photosynthetic efficiencies of C. insignis and C. makoyana were significantly increased when the photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) increased from 0 to 600 μmol photons·m−2·s−1 and became saturated with a further increase in the PPFD. The two Calathea species had lower values of both the light saturation point and maximal photosynthetic rate, which indicated that they are shade plants. No significant differences in predawn Fv/Fm values (close to 0.8) were observed between dark-green (DG) and light-green (LG) leaf sectors in all tested leaves. However, the effective quantum yield of photosystem II largely decreased as the PPFD increased. An increase in the apparent photosynthetic electron transport rate was observed in both species to a maximum at 600 μmol·m−2·s−1 PPFD, following by a decrease to 1500 μmol·m−2·s−1 PPFD. Compared to LG leaf extracts, DG leaf extracts contained higher levels of chlorophyll (Chl) a, Chl b, Chls a + b, carotenoids (Cars), anthocyanins (Ants), flavonoids (Flas), and polyphenols (PPs) in all plants, except for the Ant, Fla and PP contents of C. insignis plants. Calathea insignis also contained significantly higher levels of total protein than did C. makoyana. The adjusted normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), photochemical reflectance index (PRI), red-green, and flavonol index (FlavI) were significantly correlated to leaf Chls a + b, Cars, Ants, and Flas in C. makoyana, respectively, and can be used as indicators to characterize the physiology of these plants.
Impact of Different Binders on the Roughness, Adhesion Strength, and Other Properties of Mortars with Expanded Cork
Authors: Barnat-Hunek Danuta , Widomski Marcin , Szafraniec Małgorzata , Łagód Grzegorz
Published: March 2018

The aim of the research that is presented in this paper was to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of heat-insulating mortars with expanded cork aggregates and different binders. In this work, the measurements of surface roughness and adhesion strength, supported by determination of basic mechanical and physical parameters, such as density, bulk density, open porosity, total porosity, absorbability, thermal conductivity coefficient, compressive strength, flexural strength, and frost resistance of mortars containing expanded oak cork, were performed. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) investigations demonstrated the microstructure, contact zone, and distribution of pores in the heat-insulating mortars containing expanded cork. The results indicated that the addition of expanded cork and different binders in heat-insulating mortars triggers changes in their roughness and adhesion strength. The SEM research confirmed the very good adhesion of the paste to the cork aggregate.
RGB-Stack Light Emitting Diode Modules with Transparent Glass Circuit Board and Oil Encapsulation
Authors: Li Ying-Chang , Chang Yuan-Hsiao , Singh Preetpal , Chang Liann-Be , Yeh Der-Hwa , Chao Ting-Yu , Jian Si-Yun , Li Yu-Chi , Tan Cher , Lai Chao-Sung , Chow Lee , Ying Shang-Ping
Published: March 2018

The light emitting diode (LED) is widely used in modern solid-state lighting applications, and its output efficiency is closely related to the submounts’ material properties. Most submounts used today, such as low-power printed circuit boards (PCBs) or high-power metal core printed circuit boards (MCPCBs), are not transparent and seriously decrease the output light extraction. To meet the requirements of high light output and better color mixing, a three-dimensional (3-D) stacked flip-chip (FC) LED module is proposed and demonstrated. To realize light penetration and mixing, the mentioned 3-D vertically stacking RGB LEDs use transparent glass as FC package submounts called glass circuit boards (GCB). Light emitted from each GCB stacked LEDs passes through each other and thus exhibits good output efficiency and homogeneous light-mixing characteristics. In this work, the parasitic problem of heat accumulation, which caused by the poor thermal conductivity of GCB and leads to a serious decrease in output efficiency, is solved by a proposed transparent cooling oil encapsulation (OCP) method.
Nonlinear Multi-Frequency Dynamics of Wind Turbine Components with a Single-Mesh Helical Gear Train
Authors: Ayuketang Arreyndip Nkongho , Moise Dikande Alain , Joseph Ebobenow
Published: March 2018

A complex nonlinear model for a single-mesh helical gear train is developed by including a time-varying mesh stiffness, axial vibrations, torsional vibrations, shaft and bearing damping, generator back EMF (Electromotive Force) and gear backlashes. With the help of a time series and Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) frequency spectrum, the effects of these nonlinear terms on the wind turbine and generator rotational speeds are studied under different excitation conditions by numerically integrating the associated equations using the RK4 algorithm. Results show that for lightly damped oscillations, an extra harmonic is induced in the generator dynamics due to contributions from internal excitations. However, this extra vibration can be suppressed at higher damping. Big helical angles will generally induce heavy nonlinear vibrations in the turbine and generator; a smaller mesh frequency will induce extra noise in the generator; and the external excitation due to wind gust has a greater influence on the nonlinearity of the wind turbine dynamics as compared to the internal excitations due to static transmission errors, time-varying mesh stiffness and the generator back EMF.
The Application of 40Ti-35Ni-25Nb Filler Foil in Brazing Commercially Pure Titanium
Authors: Wang Shan-Bo , Kao Chuan-Sheng , Tsay Leu-Wen , Shiue Ren-Kae
Published: March 2018

The clad ternary 40Ti-35Ni-25Nb (wt %) foil has been applied in brazing commercially pure titanium (CP-Ti). The wavelength dispersive spectroscope (WDS) was utilized for quantitative chemical analyses of various phases/structures, and electron back scattered diffraction (EBSD) was used for crystallographic analyses in the brazed joint. The microstructure of brazed joint relies on the Nb and Ni distributions across the joint. For the β-Ti alloyed with high Nb and low Ni contents, the brazed zone (BZ), consisting of the stabilized β-Ti at room temperature. In contrast, eutectoid decomposition of the β-Ti into Ti2Ni and α-Ti is widely observed in the transition zone (TZ) of the joint. Although average shear strengths of joints brazed at different temperatures are approximately the same level, their standard deviations decreased with increasing the brazing temperature. The presence of inherent brittle Ti2Ni intermetallics results in higher standard deviation in shear test. Because the Ni content is lowered in TZ at a higher brazing temperature, the amount of eutectoid is decreased in TZ. The fracture location is changed from TZ into BZ mixed with α and β-Ti.
The Effect of Processing and Seasonality on the Iodine and Selenium Concentration of Cow’s Milk Produced in Northern Ireland (NI): Implications for Population Dietary Intake
Authors: O’Kane S. , Pourshahidi L. , Mulhern Maria , Weir Ruth , Hill Sarah , O’Reilly Jennifer , Kmiotek Diana , Deitrich Christian , Mackle Emer , Fitzgerald Edel , Lowis Carole , Johnston Mike , Strain J.J. , Yeates Alison
Published: March 2018

Cow’s milk is the most important dietary source of iodine in the UK and Ireland, and also contributes to dietary selenium intakes. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of season, milk fat class (whole; semi-skimmed; skimmed) and pasteurisation on iodine and selenium concentrations in Northern Ireland (NI) milk, and to estimate the contribution of this milk to consumer iodine and selenium intakes. Milk samples (unpasteurised, whole, semi-skimmed and skimmed) were collected weekly from two large NI creameries between May 2013 and April 2014 and were analysed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Using milk consumption data from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) Rolling Programme, the contribution of milk (at iodine and selenium concentrations measured in the present study) to UK dietary intakes was estimated. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) iodine concentration of milk was 475.9 ± 63.5 µg/kg and the mean selenium concentration of milk was 17.8 ± 2.7 µg/kg. Season had an important determining effect on the iodine, but not the selenium, content of cow’s milk, where iodine concentrations were highest in milk produced in spring compared to autumn months (534.3 ± 53.7 vs. 433.6 ± 57.8 µg/kg, respectively; p = 0.001). The measured iodine and selenium concentrations of NI milk were higher than those listed in current UK Food Composition Databases (Food Standards Agency (FSA) (2002); FSA (2015)). The dietary modelling analysis confirmed that milk makes an important contribution to iodine and selenium intakes. This contribution may be higher than previously estimated if iodine and selenium (+25.0 and +1.1 µg/day respectively) concentrations measured in the present study were replicable across the UK at the current level of milk consumption. Iodine intakes were theoretically shown to vary by season concurrent with the seasonal variation in NI milk iodine concentrations. Routine monitoring of milk iodine concentrations is required and efforts should be made to understand reasons for fluctuations in milk iodine concentrations, in order to realise the nutritional impact to consumers.
l-Glutamine Attenuates DSS-Induced Colitis via Induction of MAPK Phosphatase-1
Authors: Jeong Soo-Yeon , Im Yoo , Youm Ji , Lee Hern-Ku , Im Suhn-Young
Published: March 2018

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), encompassing ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, is a multifactorial inflammatory disease of the small intestine and colon. Many investigators have reported that l-glutamine (Gln) therapy improves outcomes of experimental colitis models, although the mechanism is not fully understood. Regarding the anti-inflammatory properties of Gln, we have shown that Gln can effectively deactivate cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) by rapid induction of MAPK phosphatase (MKP)-1. In this study, we explore the possibility that Gln ameliorates dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis via MKP-1 induction, resulting in inhibition of cPLA2, which has been reported to play a key role in the pathogenesis of IBD. Oral Gln intake attenuated DSS-induced colitis. Gln inhibited cPLA2 phosphorylation, as well as colonic levels of TNF-α and leukotriene (LT)B4. Gln administration resulted in early and enhanced MKP-1 induction. Importantly, MKP-1 small interfering RNA (siRNA), but not control siRNA, significantly abrogated the Gln-mediated (1) induction of MKP-1; (2) attenuation of colitis (colon length, histological abnormality, and inflammation; and (3) inhibition of cPLA2 phosphorylation and colonic levels of TNF-α and LTB4. These data indicated that Gln ameliorated DSS-induced colitis via MKP-1 induction.
Iodine as Essential Nutrient during the First 1000 Days of Life
Authors: Velasco Inés , Bath Sarah , Rayman Margaret
Published: March 2018

Iodine is an essential micronutrient incorporated into thyroid hormones. Although iodine deficiency can lead to a broad spectrum of disorders throughout life, it is most critical in the early stages of development, as the foetal brain is extremely dependent on iodine supply. During the last two decades, our understanding of thyroid physiology during gestation has substantially improved. Furthermore, thyroid hormone receptors have been identified and characterised in placental and embryonic tissues, allowing us to elucidate the maternal-foetal transfer of thyroid hormones. Experimental studies have demonstrated that the cyto-architecture of the cerebral cortex can be irreversibly disturbed in iodine deficiency causing abnormal neuron migratory patterns which are associated with cognitive impairment in children. In this context, the role of iodine as key factor in the programming of foetal and infant neurodevelopment, needs to be revisited with a special focus on areas of mild to moderate iodine deficiency. The objective of this review is to summarize the available evidence from both animals and human studies, for the effect of iodine deficiency (particularly, of maternal hypothyroxinemia) on brain development and neurological or behavioural disorders, such as lower intelligence quotient (IQ) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Behavior and Three-Dimensional Finite Element Modeling of Circular Concrete Columns Partially Wrapped with FRP Strips
Authors: Zeng Junjie , Guo Yongchang , Li Lijuan , Chen Weipeng
Published: March 2018

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) jacketing/wrapping has become an attractive strengthening technique for concrete columns. Wrapping an existing concrete column with continuous FRP jackets with the fiber in the jacket being oriented in the hoop direction is referred to as FRP full wrapping strengthening technique. In practice, however, strengthening concrete columns with vertically discontinuous FRP strips is also favored and this technique is referred to as FRP partial wrapping strengthening technique. Existing research has demonstrated that FRP partial wrapping strengthening technique is a promising and economical alternative to the FRP full wrapping strengthening technique. Although extensive experimental investigations have hitherto been conducted on partially FRP-confined concrete columns, the confinement mechanics of confined concrete in partially FRP-confined circular columns remains unclear. In this paper, an experimental program consisting of fifteen column specimens was conducted and the test results were presented. A reliable three-dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) approach for modeling of partially FRP-confined circular columns was established. In the proposed FE approach, an accurate plastic-damage model for concrete under multiaxial compression is employed. The accuracy of the proposed FE approach was verified by comparisons between the numerical results and the test results. Numerical results from the verified FE approach were then presented to gain an improved understanding of the behavior of confined concrete in partially FRP-confined concrete columns.
Assessing Mucoadhesion in Polymer Gels: The Effect of Method Type and Instrument Variables
Authors: Bassi da Silva Jéssica , Ferreira Sabrina , Reis Adriano , Cook Michael , Bruschi Marcos
Published: March 2018

The process of mucoadhesion has been widely studied using a wide variety of methods, which are influenced by instrumental variables and experiment design, making the comparison between the results of different studies difficult. The aim of this work was to standardize the conditions of the detachment test and the rheological methods of mucoadhesion assessment for semisolids, and introduce a texture profile analysis (TPA) method. A factorial design was developed to suggest standard conditions for performing the detachment force method. To evaluate the method, binary polymeric systems were prepared containing poloxamer 407 and Carbopol 971P®, Carbopol 974P®, or Noveon® Polycarbophil. The mucoadhesion of systems was evaluated, and the reproducibility of these measurements investigated. This detachment force method was demonstrated to be reproduceable, and gave different adhesion when mucin disk or ex vivo oral mucosa was used. The factorial design demonstrated that all evaluated parameters had an effect on measurements of mucoadhesive force, but the same was not observed for the work of adhesion. It was suggested that the work of adhesion is a more appropriate metric for evaluating mucoadhesion. Oscillatory rheology was more capable of investigating adhesive interactions than flow rheology. TPA method was demonstrated to be reproducible and can evaluate the adhesiveness interaction parameter. This investigation demonstrates the need for standardized methods to evaluate mucoadhesion and makes suggestions for a standard study design.
Extractable Free Polymer Chains Enhance Actuation Performance of Crystallizable Poly(ε-caprolactone) Networks and Enable Self-Healing
Authors: Farhan Muhammad , Rudolph Tobias , Nöchel Ulrich , Kratz Karl , Lendlein Andreas
Published: March 2018

Crosslinking of thermoplastics is a versatile method to create crystallizable polymer networks, which are of high interest for shape-memory actuators. Here, crosslinked poly(ε-caprolactone) thermosets (cPCLs) were prepared from linear starting material, whereby the amount of extractable polymer was varied. Fractions of 5–60 wt % of non-crosslinked polymer chains, which freely interpenetrate the crosslinked network, were achieved leading to differences in the resulting phase of the bulk material. This can be described as “sponge-like” with open or closed compartments depending on the amount of interpenetrating polymer. The crosslinking density and the average network chain length remained in a similar range for all network structures, while the theoretical accessible volume for reptation of the free polymer content is affected. This feature could influence or introduce new functions into the material created by thermomechanical treatment. The effect of interpenetrating PCL in cPCLs on the reversible actuation was analyzed by cyclic, uniaxial tensile tests. Here, high reversible strains of up to ∆ε = 24% showed the enhanced actuation performance of networks with a non-crosslinked PCL content of 30 wt % resulting from the crystal formation in the phase of the non-crosslinked PCL and co-crystallization with network structures. Additional functionalities are reprogrammability and self-healing capabilities for networks with high contents of extractable polymer enabling reusability and providing durable actuator materials.