bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Training Monitoring System for Cyclist Based on Android Application Development
Authors: Abdul Latiff Nurul Mu’azzah , Mohamad Mohd Musa , Syed Yusof Sharifah Kamilah , Abd. Rahim , Mohd. Rozaini , Sayuti Hamdan , Nik Abdul Malik Nik Noordini
Published: January 2014

Recently, technological advance in Android application has grown rapidly especially in health care application along with the development of smartphone. The utilization of wireless sensor networks with the mobile wireless health devices has provided us with an alternative solution in health monitoring instead of using the traditional approach with higher cost. Therefore, the objective of this project is to develop and implement a training monitoring system for cyclist based on android application. In this system, wireless sensor nodes are assigned to collect the required data such as cyclist’s heart rate and cadence. All the data are then sent to the mobile device used by cyclist via wireless communication. The data collected are first stored in device’s internal memory before they are transferred to the server. This project involved programming of hardware using specific software such as Eclipse Juno Android SDK and SQLite database. The system also includes the graphical user interface (GUI) design using Java language for application on smartphone. In addition, the simple Dropbox command is used to design the server for data storage. All the stages of implementations are integrated in one whole system and can be run as an application by cyclist. The developed system is proven to be cost effective and reliable as well as easy for customization.
Effects of Lightning Current and Ground Conductivity on the Values of Vertical Electric Fields
Authors: Izadi M. , Ab Kadir M. Z. A. , Hajikhani M. , Rameli N.
Published: January 2014

In this paper, the relationship between current front time and front time of vertical electric field due to lightning channel at non perfect ground is considered. Results showed that the peak of simulated vertical electric fields under non perfect ground conductivity condition is decreased compared to the corresponding field at perfect ground while the front time of field is increased at non perfect case compared to the perfect one. Likewise, the effect of ground conductivity on the peak and front time of simulated vertical electric field is considered and the results are discussed accordingly.
RVM versus PDC Methods for Insulations’ Conductivity and Moisture Content Monitoring
Authors: Zainir R. A. , Muhamad N. A. , Adzis Z. , Piah M. A. M. , Kasri N. F. , Jamail N. A. M.
Published: January 2014

Degradation due to ageing is a major concern for the life span of high voltage insulation. In maintaining the insulation system’s performance, it is crucial to monitor the insulation condition as it contributes to the whole system’s efficiency and safety. Many diagnostic methods have been introduced, and in use for monitoring the condition of insulation. Measurement and analysis in either frequency or time domain. Condition-based monitoring (CBM) is in growing interest lately, compared to time-based monitoring due to the increasing population of aged insulators being utilized in existing power systems.  Time-based monitoring has then been integrated with CBM. CBM’s ability to enhance reliability, improve safety and reduce hazard of a system has been recognized by many researchers and utilities. This paper presents the study and comparison of two time domain CBM techniques namely the polarization and depolarization current (PDC) measurement and return voltage measurement (RVM). Findings of previous researches on determining the insulator’s moisture content and conductivity by both methods were reviewed. Moisture content and conductivity affect the dielectric response of the insulation material. Thus, condition of the insulation system can be determined based on these two characteristics.
A Study about Factors Influencing the University Performance
Authors: Md. Yusoff Rosman , Khan Faisal , Mubeen Asad , Azam Kamran
Published: January 2014

The purpose of this study is to find out the empirical relationship and influence of Research Environment, Integration of the university with Industry, High-tech Employment and Professional & Managerial Development on the University Performance.A Questionnaire has been used to collect the data. Correlation and Regression analysis were used to determine the relationship and influence of identified dimensions over the University Performance.The findings of the study show that the identified dimensions significantly relate and influence the University Performance. This study would be helpful for the university administration while making policies to upgrade its performance. Less work has been done in Pakistan for the development of universities. This study distinctively identifies and represents the variables and their influence over the university performance. The findings increase the value of the study as it would help the decision makers at the universities to think ‘out of the box’.
Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosures and Board Structure: Evidence from Malaysia
Authors: Abdul Razak Shazrul Ekhmar , Mustapha Mazlina
Published: January 2014

Corporate governance is a critical element in driving excellence in corporate social responsibility (CSR). One of the important cornerstones of corporate governance is board of directors. Thus, this study attempts to examine the effect of this board structure on corporate social responsibility disclosures of public listed companies in Malaysia. Data for the study was collected using secondary source. CSR disclosure index was developed in an attempt to examine the CSR disclosure in the four dimensions as specified by the Bursa Malaysia. The four dimensions are environmental, community, workplace and marketplace. Multiple regression analysis was employed to analyze the data. The result shows that managerial ownership is significant and negatively influences the CSR disclosure in Malaysian listed companies. The other board variables appear to have the expected direction of the hypotheses, but are not significant.
Commercialization Success Factors of University Research Output
Authors: Khademi Tayebeh , Ismail Kamariah
Published: January 2014

The significance of university research had been obtaining a new concentration during the past few decades particularly, regarding their capacity to generate innovation and start-up companies. Universities are not only responsible for teaching and R&D activities but they are expected to commercialize the research result and also establish spin-off companies. This study attempts to illustrate the crucial factors that assist the commercialization process of university research result. This paper reveals that the success of university commercialization is influenced by several factors including researchers’ perception, time, entrepreneurial team, networking, technology stage, funding, market research and TTO.
The Perception of Islamic Education Teacher on Teaching Aids in Smart School: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ilias Mohd Faeez , Ismail Muhamad Faiz , Jasmi Kamarul Azmi
Published: January 2014

The teaching and learning (T&L) of Islamic Education which are comprised of theory and practical, often involves the use of teaching aids (TAs). In general, this article discusses the use of TAs among Smart School Islamic Education Teacher in T&L. This article aims to explore the types of TAs used by the Islamic Education Teacher (IET), the resources to obtain teaching aids, and IETs’ strategies to enhance their knowledge of the TAs. This pilot study uses case study design with in-depth interview instrument to accumulate data from IET, IETs’ colleague and IETs’ supervisor. Interview data are analyzed using NVivo software version 7.0 to develop themes and to set up matrix tables. The result shows that frequently-used teaching aids are realia for non-computer-based teaching and CDs for computer-based teaching. IETs’ main sources to obtain TAs are the school surau and the internet. IET increase their knowledge about TAs through the internet as well as attending courses. The implication of this study is that the applicability and accessibility aspects of the TAs should be emphasized among IET in order to optimize the application of the TAs.
Traffic Impact Assessment: A Case of Proposed Hypermarket in Skudai Town of Malaysia
Authors: Minhans Anil , Zaki Nazir Huzairy , Belwal Rakesh
Published: January 2014

This paper deals with traffic impact assessment (TIA) of a proposed commercial development in the neighbourhoods of Skudai Town in the Johor Bahru region. We used three regimes: Trip Rate Analysis, Cross-Classification Analysis, and Regression Analysis to assess the future traffic expected to be caused by a development – a proposed Tesco hypermarket (TH) in Skudai. The obtained mean trip rates were critically examined for forecasting traffic. The results indicated no significant variances from the estimated mean entry trip rates as mentioned in the Trip Generation Manual, Highway Planning Unit (HPU) of Malaysia. The estimated mean trip rates were used to measure the performance of a critical intersection in the immediate vicinity the development. The critical Intersection was analyzed using SIDRA software to estimate the delay – a criterion for determining the level-of-service (LOS) provided to motorists. Traffic projections made for horizon year 2025 depicted a LOS ‘F’ with 2716.9s of average delay. Traffic improvements were also proposed to mitigate the impact of future development and traffic conditions. The study provided a framework for the estimation of trip rates for Malaysian conditions along with some guidelines for their adoption. These insights to TIA can assist developers or local authorities in decision making.
Road Safety Initiatives in Bangladesh
Authors: Mahmud S. M. Sohel , Talukder Mohammad Mahbub Alam , Ahmed Ishtiaque , Raihan Md. Asif
Published: January 2014

In combating the man-made epidemic on road by  traffic accidents and injuries, some major initiatives have been undertaken in Bangladesh in the past decade including policy formulation, research, education, legislation & sanctions, and engineering intervention. In comparison to the magnitude of the problems, the progresses are very slow due to enormous constraints at different levels. In this paper, the authors briefly reviewed some major road safety initiatives in recent years in Bangladesh taken by different government and private organizations. The key issue of this paper is to evaluate the initial impact of some of those interventions.
High-Risk Road Accident Corridors in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Ishtiaque , Ahmed Bayes , Hainin Mohd. Rosli
Published: January 2014

Bangladesh has one of the highest fatality rates in road accidents and to address the safety problem is a serious concern. Dhaka is the most vulnerable city of the country. Bangladesh Road Transport Authority maintains a database of accidents using outdated software that lacks in geo-referencing facility.  This makes the analysis of accident locations a challenging task. The area for this study was the Dhaka Metropolitan Police area where the concerned forty one police stations are responsible for collecting traffic accident data. The Highway Safety Manual identifies the “Network Screening” as the first step of the Roadway Safety Management Process. This study focuses on locating the accidents on urban roadways in Dhaka and identifies thirty corridors and ranks them using geo-referenced data through developing and using a GIS database. Dhaka-Mymensing Road was found to be the most vulnerable road corridor followed by Airport Road and Mirpur Road respectively. The study recommended special attention and special “Diagnostic” studies as explained in the Highway Safety Manual for the high-risk corridors and to put emphasis on the accident data collection and reporting system. Adoption of modern technologies like GPS and GIS in collecting and reporting of the traffic accident data was emphasized.
Dynamic Stress and Strain of HPC Under Drop-weight Impact Loading
Authors: Hamid R. , Jamalluddin Khairol Rizal , Md Zia Hasan Abu Sufian
Published: January 2014

Studies have been done vastly to determine the dynamic stress-strain behaviour of concrete but the results seem not to agree with each other due to difference in method. The specimen size and the loading rate effects are significant factors in determining the compressive stress-strain behaviour of concrete cylindrical specimens. This study is to provide more dynamic stress-strain data that can add to that database on high performance concrete (HPC) using drop-weight impact test. Experiments on HPC cylinders were conducted for specimens with different sizes but maintaining the length-to-diameter (L/D) ratio (slenderness) of 2, and the results show that the maximum stress occurred for specimens with smallest size and decreased as the size increased. This current test shows that the apparent dynamic stress increase more than twofold compared to its static strength for small cylinder of Ã˜100 mm Ã— 200 mm at strain rate 0.20 s-1. It was found that compressive stress of HPC was seen to exhibit an enormously size effect under impact loading.
Spatial Multi Criteria Analysis For the Determination of Areas with High Potential Wave Energy
Authors: Abdul Maulud K. N. , Wan Mohtar W. H. M. , Karim O. A.
Published: January 2014

The strategic geographical location of Malaysia, with at least 60% of its shores are bordered with ocean, has high potential to sustain the countryâ€™s energy supply by harnessing energy from wave. However, the oceans stretch of which is suitable for wave energy generation needs to be accurately determined, with the sensitive and protected areas are taken into account. This study describes the methodology and more developed approach to determine the area not only with high wave energy but also its legality. The area is restricted at a minimum of 12 nautical miles from the coastline and the water depth is between 30 - 250 meters. Factors of oil and gas cable routing, marine parks, petroleum mining area, submarine cables and ports are considered in the analysis. Several GIS models constructed to facilitate the analysis. The methods of overlay spatial multi criteria analysis and clipping, based on the Geographic Information System (GIS) were employed. The determination of area with high potential for wave energy is vastly improved, producing a more reliable map. The results are the location of the marine energy potential in Malaysia shelf.
Preparation and Characterization of Polyethersulfone Membrane Containing Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Polyvinylpyrrolidone
Authors: Abdulkarim A. A. , Ahmad A. L. , Ismail S. , Ooi B. S.
Published: January 2014

Flat sheet polyethersulfone (PES) ultrafiltration membranes were fabricated by a dry/wet induced phase inversion process. Various ranges of ZnO concentrations (from 0 –5 wt. %) were utilized in conjunction with 16.5 and 2.5 wt. % of polyethersulfone and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), respectively. The prepared membranes were characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM), contact angle (CA), and flux/rejection performance. The modified membranes were tested on humic acid removal. The hydrophilicity of PES membrane was improved after addition of zinc oxide nanoparticles in the casting solution. Highest pure water flux was obtained at 5 wt.% ZnO nanoparticles. The modified membranes with 2.5 wt. % of zinc oxide exhibited higher humic acid flux and rejection.
Emulsion Liquid Membrane for Cadmium Removal: Experimental Results and Model Prediction
Authors: Ahmad A. L. , Kusumastuti Adhi , Shah Buddin M. M. H. , Derek D. C. J. , Ooi B. S.
Published: January 2014

A study on mass transfer model for cadmium extraction in emulsion liquid membrane system has been done. Mass transfer in the external phase and emulsion globule, stripping reaction, and diffusion of the complex were taken account into the model. Reaction and chemical equilibrium of the process were also considered. The partial differential equation was numerically solved using MATLAB software. Effect of some parameters such as acid concentration in the external phase, extraction speed, volume ratio of emulsion to feed phase, volume ratio of internal to membrane phase, and initial concentration to the extraction process were investigated and compared to the model. The model prediction can agree very well with the concentration profile of cadmium in each phase.
Effect of Hydrophobicity Degree on PVDF Hollow Fiber Membranes for Textile Wastewater Treatment Using Direct Contact Membrane Distillation
Authors: Mokhtar N. M. , Lau W. J. , Goh P. S.
Published: January 2014

The objectives of this study are to study the effect of hydrophobicity degree of  polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) hollow fiber membranes blended with different types of additives i.e. ethylene glycol (EG) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) on textile wastewater application. The degree of hydrophobicity of each membrane was analyzed using contact angle goniometer. The membrane morphology and gas permeability were characterized prior to filtration experiment. Both membranes were tested using direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) system and their performances were evaluated with respect to water flux and dye removal. This study revealed that the membrane with higher contact angle has greater stability in terms of flux and dye rejection compared to the membrane with low hydrophobic property. This is mainly due to the low surface energy obtained by the highly hydrophobic membrane that prevented the liquids from both sides to penetrate through membrane pores.
Character Building in ESL Materials: Values and Malaysian English Curriculum
Authors: Zakaria Mohamad Hassan , Dong Liang Koay
Published: January 2014

This paper conceptualizes values within character building, a desirable element which is integrated into Malaysian ESL curriculum. It examines Malaysian upper secondary school textbooks and found the prominence of the portrayal of such materials. Interview data suggest the need for character building among ESL learners and the positive role of such materials. Findings also suggest that the integration of values in ESL curriculum, when translated into ESL materials, problematizes further the notions of value-laden curriculum and values education.
Online Discussion Behavior Within Collaborative Learning Via E-Forum
Authors: Ting Liu , Wan Mansor Wan Fara Adlina , Zakaria Mohamad Hassan , Deris Farhana Diana
Published: January 2014

This paper investigates the studentsâ€™ online discussion behaviors on e-forum and discusses the behaviors within the concept of collaborative learning. Using qualitative research design, seventeen undergraduate TESOL students' postings in e-forum were analyzed as they were going through two TESOL courses. These two courses were conveniently chosen because the same instructors taught these courses and who also implemented e-forum in both courses. Two research instruments were utilized, namely content analysis and questionnaire to retrieve data from the participants. Analysis of findings suggests that there was active display of discussion behaviours and that e-forum was indeed an effective tool that motivated the studentsâ€™ collaborative learning at the university level. Finally, based on the findings of the study, some pedagogical implications have been recommended.
Compensation Features for Task Fulfilment in Discussion
Authors: Zainal S Hasimah Wati , Abdul Raof Abdul Halim , Habil Hadina
Published: January 2014

The introduction of the Malaysian University English Test (MUET) has sparked the urgency to train pre-university students to communicate effectively and spurred the interest of language researchers to develop speaking skills among students in Malaysia. New methods and strategies are attempted to overcome various communication problems, and ease communication especially in the discussion component of MUET. However, due to its spontaneity, speaking remains the most difficult skill to acquire. This paper presents findings of an ongoing research on compensation features for task fulfilment in discussions. It discusses instances of how compensation features, in particular corrections and alterations, are used in discussions. This paper highlights such features as used by pre-university students in discussions which involve self-correction/self-repair, false start, repetition and restructuring/rephrasing.
Effects of Fuel-Side N2, CO2, H2O Dilution on Combustion Characteristics and NOx Formation of Syngas Turbulent Nonpremixed Jet Flames
Authors: Zhuo Liying , Jiang Yong , Qiu Rong , An Jiangtao , Xu Wu
Published: January 2014

The effects of the three fuel-side diluents N2, CO2, and H2O on the accurate flame structure and NOx formation characteristics of the turbulent syngas nonpremixed flames are investigated using the one-dimensional-turbulence (ODT) model. For nonpremixed flames, the fuel mixtures consist of H2, CO and three diluents: N2, H2O, and CO2. The proportion of diluents is varied from 10% to 30% while the H2/CO ratio is kept as a constant at 0.75 all the time. Mass fraction of main species and temperature of 30% N2 basic dilution case predicted by the ODT model are compared with the tests measuring results obtained by International Workshop on Measurements and Computation of Turbulent Nonpremixed Flames, and it is found that the results are in good agreement. Numerical results indicate that the CO2 diluted flames have the largest reduction on flame temperature as well as the NOx emission, while H2O is more effective than N2. For CO2 and H2O dilution flames, flame structure becomes unstable with an obvious lift phenomenon. Since ODT captures the flame extinction process, flames added with CO2 and H2O not only have a lower extinction temperature but also the reignition process is slower.
Gas Bubble Size Measurements in Liquid Mercury Using an Acoustic Spectrometer
Authors: Wu Xiongjun , Wendel Mark , Chahine Georges , Riemer Bernie
Published: January 2014

A properly dispersed population of small bubbles can mitigate cavitation damage to a spallation neutron source target. In order to measure such a bubble population, an acoustic device was developed and implemented in a mercury loop at ORNL. The instrument generated pulses of various frequencies and measured their acoustic propagation in the bubbly medium. It then deduced sound speed and attenuation at the various frequencies and used an inverse problem solver to provide near real-time measurements of bubble size distribution and void fraction. The measurements were then favorably compared with an optical method.
Cavitation Characteristics of S-Blade Used in Fully Reversible Pump-Turbine
Authors: Premkumar T. M. , Kumar Pankaj , Chatterjee Dhiman
Published: January 2014

S-shaped blade profiles with double camber find use in fully reversible turbomachines that can extract power from tides. Though noncavitating characteristics of S-blades were determined in the past, yet characterizing cavitating flow was not carried out. This work, which is the first step in this direction, uses a two-pronged approach of experimental and numerical characterization of cavitating flow past these hydrofoils. Experimental results indicate that as the angle of attack increases in either positive or negative directions, cavitation inception number increases. Minimum cavitation effect is observed at 2 deg, which is zero lift angle of attack. For higher angles of attack (±6deg, ±4deg) and moderate or low cavitation number (σ/σi≤0.3), unsteady cloud cavitation was characterized through visual observation and from pressure fluctuation data. It was observed that for unsteady cavity shedding to take place is the length and thickness of the cavity should be more than 50% and 10% of the chord length, respectively. Predicting flow past this geometry is difficult and the problem may be compounded in many applications because of laminar-to-turbulence transition as well as due to the presence of cavitation. Present simulations indicate that the k-kL-ω transition model may be useful in predicting hydrodynamic performance of this type of geometry and for the range of Reynolds number considered in this paper. Hydrodynamic performance under cavitation indicates that pumping mode is more adversely affected by cavitation and, hence, a fully reversible turbomachine may not perform equally well in turbine and pump modes as expected from noncavitating results.
Schottky-diode hydrogen sensor based on InGaN/GaN multiple quantum wells
Authors: Chen Gang , Choi Anthony Hoi Wai , Lai Pui To , Tang Wing Man
Published: January 2014

A Schottky-diode hydrogen sensor based on InGaN/GaN multiple quantum wells was fabricated. Its hydrogen-sensing properties (e.g., current–voltage characteristics, barrier-height variation, and response) and its hydrogen adsorption properties (e.g., hydrogen reaction kinetics, transient behavior, response time, and activation energy) were studied over a wide range of temperature or H2 concentration. Results showed that the device is sensitive to hydrogen ambient even at high temperature (response is 0.11 at 300 °C in 810 ppm H2). According to the kinetic adsorption analysis, the activation energy of the sensor is 4.9 kcal/mol. Moreover, the sensor could perform rapid hydrogen detection at high temperature (response time is 25.1 s at 400 °C in 800 ppm H2). Therefore, the sensor is a useful device for hydrogen-sensing applications, especially at high temperature.
Maximizing Youth Experiences in Community Sport Settings: The Design and Impact of the LiFE Sports Camp
Authors: Anderson-Butcher Dawn , Riley Allison , Amorose Anthony , Iachini Aidyn , Wade-Mdivanian Rebecca
Published: January 2014

Maximizing youth experiences in community sport programs is critical, particularly for vulnerable and/or marginalized youth who may have limited access and opportunity to these experiences. Using second-order latent growth modeling, this study explores the impact of a community sport program, the LiFE Sports Camp, on the development of social and sport skills among vulnerable youth. The importance of a sense of belonging as a key mechanism that contributes to youth outcomes also is examined. The findings of this research point to the value of community sport that is strategically designed to promote both sport and social outcomes in youth, as well as highlights the role of belonging in these contexts. Implications for sports management leaders and practitioners are discussed.
Mastering Translational Medicine: Interdisciplinary Education for a New Generation
Authors: Kurpinski Kyle , Johnson Terry , Kumar Sanjay , Desai Tejal , Li Song
Published: January 2014

Graduate-level education in translational medicine will require more than just scientific research.
Nanospherical Scouts on the Lookout for Circulating Tumor Cells
Authors: Artzi Natalie
Published: January 2014

A layer-by-layer magnetic nanoparticle assembly allows rapid and selective detection of circulating cancer cells.
Recurrent nephrolithiasis associated with atazanavir use
Authors: Wang Lily C , Osterberg E Charles , David Scott G , Rosoff James S
Published: January 2014

A 64-year-old man with HIV on antiretroviral therapy (including atazanavir, a protease inhibitor) presented with left flank pain, nausea and vomiting. A kidney stone was suspected, and a CT scan demonstrated left hydronephrosis but failed to demonstrate nephrolithiasis or extrinsic compression. The patient had a ureteral stent placed which relieved his symptoms. A few months later, he underwent left ureteroscopy and a large ureteral calculus was found. The stone was removed and analysis showed 43% atazanavir and 57% calcium oxalate. Several months later, the patient developed flank pain on the opposite side. A renal ultrasound suggested right-sided nephrolithiasis and he subsequently underwent ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy of two stones. Stone analysis showed that they were composed of 100% atazanavir. This case highlights the fact that patients treated with protease inhibitors remain at risk for developing nephrolithiasis. Ultrasonography can be a useful diagnostic tool in the setting of these radiolucent calculi.
Injury and biomechanical perspectives on the rugby scrum: a review of the literature
Authors: Trewartha Grant , Preatoni Ezio , England Michael E , Stokes Keith A
Published: January 2014

As a collision sport, rugby union has a relatively high overall injury incidence, with most injuries being associated with contact events. Historically, the set scrum has been a focus of the sports medicine community due to the perceived risk of catastrophic spinal injury during scrummaging. The contemporary rugby union scrum is a highly dynamic activity but to this point has not been well characterised mechanically. In this review, we synthesise the available research literature relating to the medical and biomechanical aspects of the rugby union scrum, in order to (1) review the injury epidemiology of rugby scrummaging; (2) consider the evidence for specific injury mechanisms existing to cause serious scrum injuries and (3) synthesise the information available on the biomechanics of scrummaging, primarily with respect to force production. The review highlights that the incidence of acute injury associated with scrummaging is moderate but the risk per event is high. The review also suggests an emerging acknowledgement of the potential for scrummaging to lead to premature chronic degeneration injuries of the cervical spine and summarises the mechanisms by which these chronic injuries are thought to occur. More recent biomechanical studies of rugby scrummaging confirm that scrum engagement forces are high and multiplanar, but can be altered through modifications to the scrum engagement process which control the engagement velocity. As the set scrum is a relatively ‘controlled’ contact situation within rugby union, it remains an important area for intervention with a long-term goal of injury reduction.
Impact of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance on medical technology uptake: analysis of the uptake of spinal cord stimulation in England 2008–2012
Authors: Vyawahare Bharati , Hallas Natalie , Brookes Morag , Taylor Rod S , Eldabe Sam
Published: January 2014

Background

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Technology Appraisal Guidance on spinal cord stimulation (SCS) was published in 2008 and updated in 2012 with no change. This guidance recommends SCS as a cost-effective treatment for patients with neuropathic pain.

Objective

To assess the impact of NICE guidance by comparing SCS uptake in England pre-NICE (2008–2009) and post-NICE (2009–2012) guidance. We also compared the English SCS uptake rate with that of Belgium, the Netherlands, France and Germany.

Design

SCS implant data for England was obtained from the Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) database and compared with other European countries where comparable data were available.

Results

The HES data showed small increases in SCS implantation and replacement/revision procedures, and a large increase in SCS trials between 2008 and 2012. The increase in the total number of SCS procedures per million of population in England is driven primarily by revision/replacements and increased trial activity. Marked variability in SCS uptake at both health regions and primary care trust level was observed.

Conclusions

Despite the positive NICE recommendation for the routine use of SCS, we found no evidence of a significant impact on SCS uptake in England. Rates of SCS implantation in England are lower than many other European countries.
The impact of pulmonary bone component embolism: an autopsy study
Authors: Dettmer Matthias S , Willi Niels , Thiesler Thore , Ochsner Peter , Cathomas Gieri
Published: January 2014

Aims

Pulmonary bone marrow embolism (BME) and pulmonary bone fragment embolism (BFE) are two types of non-thrombotic pulmonary embolism (NTPE). While BME can be found consistently in autopsies, BFE is a rarely observed event. Both these conditions have bone lesions as source of embolism and are not considered to be causative for death.

Methods

A retrospective autopsy study was performed and lung whole tissue slides were reviewed for the presence of pulmonary embolism. Clinicopathological data were screened for osseous lesions considered as risk factors for BME and BFE.

Results

We reviewed 985 consecutive, unselected autopsies and identified 29 cases of BME (2.9%) and 5 cases of BFE (0.5%). Both conditions were mutually exclusive. While BME showed a significant association with costal fractures, BFE was significantly associated with osteomyelitis and previously performed femur nailing. There were between 1 and 346 bone emboli in BFE with a density ranging from 0.74 to 30.5 emboli/cm2with mean embolic diameter of 45.8±37.6 μm. In two patients, BFE contributed significantly to fatal outcome.

Conclusions

BME was associated with costal fractures, while BFE was associated with orthopaedic procedures and osteomyelitis. BFE can result in patient death. Both conditions appeared exclusively, indicating that although they originate from osseous lesions their underlying pathogenesis may likely be different.
A pathologist's survey on the reporting of sessile serrated adenomas/polyps
Authors: Chetty Runjan , Bateman Adrian C , Torlakovic Emina , Wang Lai Mun , Gill Pelvender , Al-Badri Adnan , Arends Mark , Biddlestone Leigh , Burroughs Susan , Carey Frank , Cowlishaw David , Crowther Stephen , Da Costa Philip , Dada Mahomed A , d'Adhemar Charles , Dasgupta Kaushik , de Cates Chandima , Deshpande Vikram , Feakins Roger M , Foria Bineeta , Foria Vipul , Fuller Clare , Green Bryan , Greenson Joel K , Griffiths Paul , Hafezi-Bakhtiari Sara , Henry James , Jaynes Eleanor , Jeffers Michael D , Kaye Philip , Landers Robert , Lauwers Gregory Y , Loughrey Maurice , Mapstone Nicholas , Novelli Marco , Odze Robert , Poller David , Rowsell Corwyn , Sanders Scott , Sarsfield Patrick , Schofield John B , Sheahan Kieran , Shepherd Neil , Sherif Ali , Sington James , Walsh Shaun , Williams Namor , Wong Newton
Published: January 2014

Aim

The purpose of this survey was to ascertain reporting habits of pathologists towards sessile serrated adenomas/polyps (SSA/P).

Methods

A questionnaire designed to highlight diagnostic criteria, approach and clinical implications of SSA/P was circulated electronically to 45 pathologists in the UK and North America.

Results

Forty-three of 45 pathologists agreed to participate. The vast majority (88%) had a special interest in gastrointestinal (GI) pathology, had great exposure to GI polyps in general with 40% diagnosing SSA/P at least once a week if not more, abnormal architecture was thought by all participants to be histologically diagnostic, and 11% would make the diagnosis if a single diagnostic histological feature was present in one crypt only, while a further 19% would diagnose SSA/P in one crypt if more than one diagnostic feature was present. The vast majority agreed that deeper sections were useful and 88% did not feel proliferation markers were useful. More than one-third did not know whether, or did not feel that, their clinicians were aware of the implications of SSA/P.

Conclusions

98% of pathologists surveyed are aware that SSA/P is a precursor lesion to colorectal cancer, the majority agree on diagnostic criteria, and a significant number feel that there needs to be greater communication and awareness among pathologists and gastroenterologists about SSA/P.
Humanising illness: presenting health information in educational comics
Authors: McNicol Sarah
Published: January 2014

Research into the effectiveness of comic books as health education tools overwhelmingly consists of studies evaluating the information learnt as a result of reading the comic, for example using preintervention and postintervention questionnaires. In essence, these studies evaluate comics in the same way in which a patient information leaflet might be evaluated, but they fail to evaluate the narrative element of comics. Health information comics have the potential to do much more than simply convey facts about an illness; they can also support patients in dealing with the social and psychological aspects of a condition. This article discusses how some common elements of educational comics are handled in a selection of comics about diabetes, focusing on the more personal or social aspects of the condition as well as the presentation of factual information. The elements examined include: fears and anxieties; reactions of friends and family; interactions with medical professionals; self-management; and prevention. In conclusion, the article argues that comics, potentially, have many advantages over patient information leaflets, particularly in the way in which they can offer ‘companionship’, helping patients to address fears and negative feelings. However, empirical studies are required to evaluate educational comics in a way which takes account of their potential role in supporting patients in coming to terms with their condition, as well as becoming better informed.
Ectonucleotidase expression profile and activity in human cervical cancer cell lines
Authors: Beckenkamp Aline , Santana Danielle Bertodo , Bruno Alessandra Nejar , Calil Luciane Noal , Casali Emerson André , Paccez Juliano Domiraci , Zerbini Luiz F. , Lenz Guido , Wink Márcia R. , Buffon Andréia
Published: January 2014

Cervical cancer is the third most frequent cancer in women worldwide. Adenine nucleotide signaling is modulated by the ectonucleotidases that act in sequence, forming an enzymatic cascade. Considering the relationship between the purinergic signaling and cancer, we studied the E-NTPDases, ecto-5′-nucleotidase, and E-NPPs in human cervical cancer cell lines and keratinocytes. We evaluated the expression profiles of these enzymes using RT-PCR and quantitative real-time PCR analysis. The activities of these enzymes were examined using ATP, ADP, AMP, and p-nitrophenyl-5′-thymidine monophosphate (p-Nph-5′-TMP) as substrate, in a colorimetric assay. The extracellular adenine nucleotide hydrolysis was estimated by HPLC analysis. The hydrolysis of all substrates exhibited a linear pattern and these activities were cation-dependent. An interesting difference in the degradation rate was observed between cervical cancer cell lines SiHa, HeLa, and C33A and normal imortalized keratinocytes, HaCaT cells. The mRNA of ecto-5′-nucleotidase, E-NTPDases 5 and 6 were detectable in all cell lines, and the dominant gene expressed was the Entpd 5 enzyme, in SiHa cell line (HPV16 positive). In accordance with this result, a higher hydrolysis activity for UDP and GDP nucleotides was observed in the supernatant of the SiHa cells. Both normal and cancer cells presented activity and mRNAs of members of the NPP family. Considering that these enzymes exert an important catalytic activity, controlling purinergic nucleotide concentrations in tumors, the presence of ectonucleotidases in cervical cancer cells can be important to regulate the levels of extracellular adenine nucleotides, limiting their effects.
The anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory properties of puerarin attenuate 3-nitropropionic-acid induced neurotoxicity in rats
Authors: Mahdy Heba M. , Mohamed Mohamed R. , Emam Manal A. , Karim Amr M. , Abdel-Naim Ashraf , Khalifa Amani E.
Published: January 2014

Puerarin (Pur), an isoflavonoid extracted from the dried roots of Pueraria lobata, has been reported to be useful in the treatment of various diseases. This study was designed to evaluate the anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory activities of Pur against 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NP) induced neurotoxicity. For 5 consecutive days, male Wistar rats were given Pur (200 mg/kg body mass) 30 min before treatment with 20 mg/kg body mass of 3-NP. The striata, hippocampi, and cortices of the 3-NP treated group showed apoptotic damage, inflammation, and energy deficit as well as histopathological lesions. The 3-NP-induced alteration in apoptotic biomarkers (caspase-3 activity/level, cytosolic cytochrome c, Bax/Bcl-2 levels) were significantly ameliorated by Pur treatment. Moreover, Pur pretreatment blocked 3-NP-induced inflammatory biomarkers (NF-κB, TNF-α, and iNOS) and prevented the energy deficit (ATP reduction). Nissl staining further confirmed Pur’s neuroprotective effect. These results indicate that Pur may be a useful preventive approach to various neurodegenerative diseases with underlying apoptosis and neuroinflammation.
Wing morphology of Neotropical bats: a quantitative and qualitative analysis with implications for habitat use
Authors: Marinello M.M. , Bernard E.
Published: January 2014

Wing morphology has a direct influence on the flight manoeuvrability, agility, and speed of bats. Studies addressing the relationship between bat wing morphology and ecology are biased towards Old World species and few of them have addressed the ecologically rich Amazonian bat fauna. We quantitatively and qualitatively characterized the wing shape of 51 bat species found in the Brazilian Amazonia by measuring their aspect ratio (AR) and relative wing load (RWL). We found a high variability in wing shape: AR varied from 5.0862 (pygmy round-eared bat, Lophostoma brasiliense (Peters, 1866)) to 8.2774 (brown dog-faced bat, Molossus (Cynomops) paranus (Thomas, 1901)), while RWL varied from 20.0459 (spectral bat, Vampyrum spectrum (L., 1758)) to 55.3931 (Pallas’s mastiff, Molossus molossus (Pallas, 1766)). Insectivores had the largest variability, whereas frugivores and nectarivores had intermediate values with lower variability, indicating a higher flexibility in the use of space and resources. Our predictions on flight patterns are supported by capture and behavioural data from the literature, both of which point to the use of wing shape as a good proxy for habitat use and food partitioning among species. Our data are useful for integrative studies in ecology, physiology, behaviour, and evolution, and can contribute to a better understanding of the ecological interactions of Neotropical bat species.
Applying linguistic information and intersection concept to improve effectiveness of multi-criteria decision analysis technology
Authors: Pai Ping-Feng , Chen Chen-Tung , Hung Wei-Zhan
Published: January 2014

Multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) is one of the most widely used decision methodologies. Because every kind of MCDM approach has unique strengths and weaknesses, it is difficult to determine which kind of MCDM approach is best suited to a specific problem. Therefore, a new decision-making method is proposed herein, based on linguistic information and intersection concepts; it is called the linguistic intersection method (LIM). Notably, the linguistic variables are more suited to expressing the opinion of each decision maker. There are four MCDM methods: TOPSIS, ELECTRE, PROMETHEE and VIKOR which are included in the LIM. First, each MCDM approach is used to determine the ranking order of all alternatives in accordance with the linguistic evaluations of decision makers. Then, the intersection set is determined with regard to the better alternatives of all methods. Third, the final ranking order of alternatives in the intersection set can be determined by the proposed method. Lastly, an example is given to describe the procedure of the proposed method. In order to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, a simulation test is provided to compare the LIM with the linguistic MCDM method. According to the comparison results, the proposed method is more stable in determining the ranking order of all decision alternatives.
Sodium versus potassium effects on the glutamic acid side-chains interaction on a heptapeptide
Authors: Asciutto Eliana K. , Gaborek Timothy , Madura Jeffry D.
Published: January 2014

Equilibrium peptide conformations in solution, especially in the presence of salts, has been of interest for several decades. The fundamental interactions that determine the dominant peptide conformations in solution have been experimentally and computationally probed; however, a unified understanding has not yet emerged. In a previous study, we performed metadynamics simulations on the heptapeptide AEAAAEA in Sodium Chloride ( NaCl ) and Potassium Chloride ( KCl ) solutions at concentrations ranging from 0.5–2.0 M. Using a three-dimensional collective variable coordinate system, we computed the free energy landscapes in each saline environment as well as in pure water. We found that the presence of Na+and K+ions induces some changes in the stability of the conformers that define the state space, but does not alter the overall energetics between conformers and does not favor helical conformations. We investigate here, how the presence of salts ( NaCl and KCl ) affects the glutamic–glutamic interaction and its consequences on the stability of each equilibrium conformation. We perform this study through fixed backbone simulations for the most populated conformations identified in our previous work: the α-helix, 310-helix, π-helix, the extended polyproline II (PPII) and 2.51-helix conformations. It was found that for each conformation, there exists stable substates determined by the glutamic acid side-chains distance and orientation, and that Na+and K+cations (de)stabilize preferentially each conformation. It was also found that intramolecular single water mediated hydrogen bonds play a crucial role in the observed (de) stabilization of each equilibrium conformation.
First principle investigations to enhance the charge transfer properties by bridge elongation
Authors: Irfan Ahmad
Published: January 2014

The ground-state geometries of 2-cyano-5-(4-(phenyl(4-vinylphenyl)amino)phenyl) penta-2,4-dienoic acid (TC4) derivatives have been optimized by using density functional theory (DFT) at B3LYP/6-31G** level of theory. The effect of bridge has been investigated on the electronic and charge transfer properties. The distortion between triphenylamine unit and acceptor moieties revealed there would be recombination barrier. The excitation energies have been computed by time dependent DFT at PCM-CAM-B3LYP/6-31G** and PCM-LC-BLYP/6-31G** level of theories. The absorption spectrum of TC4 computed at PCM-CAM-B3LYP/6-31G** level of theory is in good agreement with the experimental evidence while PCM-LC-BLYP/6-31G** level of theory underestimate it. The electron injection, electronic coupling constant and light harvesting efficiency (LHE) improved by elongating the bridge. The superior electron injection, electronic coupling constant, LHE, LUMO lying above the conduction band of TiO 2 and HOMO below the redox couple compared to parent molecule revealed that new designed materials would be efficient photosensitizers.
EFFECT OF GRAPHITE PRECURSOR ON OXIDATION DEGREE, HYDROPHILICITY AND MICROSTRUCTURE OF GRAPHENE OXIDE
Authors: HU XUEBING , YU YUN , ZHOU JIANER , SONG LIXIN
Published: January 2014

Graphene oxide (GO) has attracted much attention as a derivative of graphene. In addition, it appears to have many unique physicochemical properties and has been investigated widely in many areas. Herein, we prepare GOs using flake graphite (FG), expandable graphite (EG) and microcrystalline graphite (MG) as graphite precursors by the modified Hummers method. According to the X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Raman spectroscopy, we characterize the component, the functional group, the chemical state of the element and the structural disorder of the obtained GOs to reveal their oxidation degree. Besides, we evaluate the hydrophilicity of the obtained GOs with the water contact angle, and observe their microstructures by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We find that the GO prepared with EG has a higher-degree oxidation and better hydrophilicity, and it will be exfoliated easily and forms a monolayer or quasi-monolayer structure. Finally, based on the structural characteristic of graphite precursor, we build the intercalation and oxidation model to illuminate the phenomenon.