bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Quick Reaction System Using Energy, Process and Quality Data for Process Characterization and Holistic Monitoring of Large Scale Assembly Lines
Authors: Sand Christian , Renz Florian , Aslanpinar Akin Cüneyt , Franke Jörg
Published: October 2017

Modern large-scale assembly lines need to deliver a highly varied and flexible output, while achieving 0 ppm scrap. This is becoming more and more demanding due to an increasing complexity of the products. Thus, it will be a major step in manufacturing processes to develop process monitoring strategies which increase productivity as well as flexibility and reliability of the entire assembly process. Therefore, it is necessary to advance the entire chained assembly line instead of only isolated processes and stations. For this reason, technological processes have to be assessed as a chain of upstream and downstream partial processes instead of being considered in isolation. [3] Moreover, data mining projects depend on the available data bases, while additional data sources may increase the derived knowledge. [2] These ideas are extendable by energy data measurements, besides process and quality data. Existing monitoring approaches to reduce scrap usually use dashboards linked with process and quality data. [5] Therefore, this paper presents a new methodology using data mining analysis of energy data for assembly presses as well as complete assembly lines for electromagnetic actuators. This novel holistic approach realized by a Quick Reaction System allows to increase efficiency, while decreasing energy and resource consumption for actuator manufacturing on large scale assembly lines. In particular, the data base consists of process and quality data, enriched by energy data measurements. This approach enables a comprehensive process characterization as well as monitoring of whole assembly lines by using data mining tools. Furthermore, this paper describes a quantitative evaluation of its data mining based event detection of critical process parameters.
Medicina personalizzata e medicina centrata sulla persona
Authors: Spagnolo Antonio G.
Published: October 2017

Non disponibile / Not available
Development and comparison of payment behaviour prediction models for two South African state departments
Authors: Fourie Erika , Verster Tanja , Van Vuuren Gary W.
Published: October 2017

Background: No credit rating methodology currently exists for any of South Africa’s sub nationals.Aim: To develop a generic, quantitative credit rating methodology for the Department of Health and the Department of Education combined, as well as specific quantitative credit rating methodologies, for each department, individually.Setting: A comparison between generic and specific subnational credit rating methodologies to assess which fits the South African subnational environment best. Studies and results obtained from other nations were used to construct the approach.Methods: In a typical credit rating methodology, both quantitative and qualitative information is considered. In South Africa (as a developing economy), the quantitative information equates to a smaller portion of the final credit rating. A generic quantitative credit rating methodology, as well as specific credit rating methodologies, was developed. The appropriateness of these generic and specific models was tested with regards to prediction accuracies using Red, Amber or Green (RAG) statuses on a traffic light series. An illustration of the predicted versus actual ranks is provided, as well as an example to illustrate how model-predicted RAG statuses, based on quantitative information, may be overlaid with more recent qualitative information to derive a final ranking.Results: A generic, quantitative credit rating methodology for the Departments of Health and the Department of Education combined was developed, as well as specific credit rating methodologies for each department separately. The specific subnational credit rating methodology outperformed the generic methodology considerably; more precisely, the generic models predicted a maximum of 50% of the new cases correctly as opposed to the specific Health and Education models’ 78%.Conclusion: The primary contribution of this study was to develop and compare generic and specific subnational credit rating methodologies. A further contribution was to test the appropriateness of these models’ prediction accuracies using RAG statutes. The specific subnational credit rating methodology was found to outperform the generic methodology considerably.
Cytologic features of primary monophasic synovial sarcoma of the thyroid gland
Authors: Park Chang-Soo , Kim Young , Jeong Eun-Hui , Kim Nah-Ihm , Choi Yoo-Duk
Published: October 2017

Synovial sarcoma (SS) is a rare soft tissue tumor, commonly arising in para-articular areas of extremities, but can also present in the head and neck area. However, primary SS of the thyroid gland is an extremely rare tumor which has been reported only five times in previous English literatures. This report presents fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology of primary monophasic SS of the thyroid gland. A 47-year- old woman incidentally detected thyroid nodule in the isthmus of right thyroid gland on an ultrasonography by regular health check-up. Because the possibility of malignancy could not be ruled out, FNA and surgical resection were performed. The cytological, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular genetic study of SYT-SSX transcript were discussed. For the past 3 years of follow-up after surgery, no recurrence or metastasis has been identified.
Malignant Myeloma in a Patient after Treatment for Osteoporosis with Teriparatide; a Rare Coincidence
Authors: Forslund Terje , Koski Anna-Mari , Koistinen Arvo , Sikiö Anu
Published: October 2017

A breakthrough in understanding of mechanisms of bone structure regulation has brought about the introduction of the new synthetic recombinant human parathyroid hormone 1–34 (PTH1-34; Teriparatide) in the treatment of osteoporosis. These mechanisms, involving the RANKL, RANK, and osteoprotegerin system, are also known to be involved in malignant myeloma (MM) and tumor and bone metastasis development.

We report a case in which MM was found after treatment of osteoporosis with teriparatide. We were unable to demonstrate any direct association between the MM and teriparatide treatment. However, it seemed intriguing that similar mechanisms are activated in the development of MM as those being working during teriparatide treatment.

In the view of our case, we propose that MM by examination of serum protein fraction should be searched for prior to treatment with teriparatide as it is an exclusion criterion in teriparatide treatment of secondary osteoporosis. A search for other metastatic diseases prior to teriparatide treatment should eventually also be considered. The theoretical basis for our proposal is discussed.
Acute Autonomic, Sensory and Motor Neuropathy Associated with Meningoencephalitis
Authors: Kinoshita Satoko , Sugie Kazuma , Kataoka Hiroshi , Sugie Miho , Hirano Makito , Ueno Satoshi
Published: October 2017

We report the first case of acute autonomic, motor and sensory neuropathy (AASMN) associated with meningoencephalitis. A 62-year-old man presented with fever, neck stiffness, and coma. Respiratory failure developed. Magnetic resonance images showed an abnormality in the medial temporal lobe. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed pleocytosis with a high protein level. Intensive care gradually improved the consciousness level, but paralysis of the four extremities persisted. Nerve conduction studies revealed demyelinating sensory and motor polyneuropathy. Severe orthostatic hypotension, urinary retention, and constipation were also present. Clinical autonomic tests suggested both sympathetic and parasympathetic dysfunction. After intravenous immunoglobulin therapy, motor and sensory symptoms resolved rapidly; dysautonomia resolved gradually over the next 2 months. The response to immunological therapy and the presence of antecedent infection suggest that AASMN is a postinfectious, immune-mediated, autonomic, sensory and motor nervous system dysfunction.
A Case of Tubulointerstitial Nephritis and Uveitis (TINU) Syndrome with High ASLO Titer
Authors: Kashiwagi Yasuyo , Suzuki Shunsuke , Fujioka Tao , Oana Shingo , Kawashima Hisashi , Takekuma Kouji , Hoshika Akinori
Published: October 2017

Tubulointerstitial nephritis and uveitis (TINU) syndrome is a rare autoimmune disease and the pathogenesis is still unknown. We report a case of TINU syndrome with high ASLO titer.

Uveitis improved and urine β2-MG normalized with low dose systemic predonisolone and cyclosporin A. The high ASLO titer in early phase suggested that streptococcal infection might have triggered TINU syndrome. Lymphocyte phenotypes normalized after treatment with low dose systemic predonisolone and cyclosporin A.
An Acute Leukaemia Masquerading as Immune Thrombocytopaenic Purpura (ITP)? A Case Report
Authors: Olaniyi J.A.
Published: October 2017

This is a case report of a 35 year old female with diagnosed Immune Thrombocytopaenic Purpura (ITP) that was strangely followed by acute myeloid leukaemia at 10 months post diagnosis of ITP. She was managed as ITP using prednisolone 45 mg daily for 10 months with good response. She also synchronously carried a pregnancy to term and safe delivery. Shortly after delivery, she represented with gingival bleeding and peripheral film review and subsequent bone marrow cytology was in keeping with AML-M4 subtype. She died shortly after diagnosis without being able to receive chemotherapy.
Methotrexate-Induced Acute Leukemia: Report of Three Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Al-Anazi Khalid A. , Eltayeb Khalid I. , Bakr Mohammed , Al-Mohareb Fahad I.
Published: October 2017

For many years, methotrexate has been used in the treatment of certain chronic medical disorders e.g. rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis as well as a number of malignant disorders e.g. acute lymphoblastic leukemia, certain types of lymphoma and breast carcinoma. Its use has been associated with various systemic toxicities and complications. The association between methotrexate therapy and the development of lymphoma and pseudolymphoma is well established. In patients treated with methotrexate, the development of leukemia has been attributed to either the primary disorder e.g. rheumatoid arthritis or to other drugs used concomitantly e.g. cyclophosphamide. Reported here are two patients with rheumatoid arthritis and one patient with psoriasis treated with low dose methotrexate for variable periods of time. Two of these patients developed acute myeloid leukemia on myelodysplastic syndrome background, while the third patient developed pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia that expressed few myeloid markers and had a positive philadelphia chromosome. To our knowledge, these are the first reported cases of methotrexate-induced acute leukemia.
Asymmetrical Weakness Associated with Central Nervous System Involvement in a Patient with Guillain-Barrè Syndrome
Authors: Kiriyama Takao , Hirano Makito , Kusunoki Susumu , Morita Daiji , Hirakawa Minako , Tonomura Yasuyo , Kitauchi Takanori , Ueno Satoshi
Published: October 2017

Guillain-Barrè syndrome (GBS) is usually associated with symmetrical weakness, and therefore asymmetrical weakness may confuse diagnosis. We report on a patient with GBS subsequent to Campylobacter jejuni enteritis who had asymmetrical weakness with CNS involvement. The patient tested positive for anti-ganglioside antibodies, including anti-GM1 IgM, anti-GD1b IgG, and anti-GT1a IgG. Patients with GBS can manifest asymmetrical signs and symptoms attributable to CNS involvement. Prompt, accurate diagnosis and treatment of post- C. jejuni GBS is especially important because its prognosis is relatively poor.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the Early Childhood: A Case Report
Authors: Moraes Flávia dos Santos , Antonio Andrέa Gonçalves , Winz Almeida Marta Lua Pimentel , de Almeida Lima Castro Rodolfo , Vianna Roberto
Published: October 2017

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic bacterium that usually affects immunocompromised patients, causing infections whose signals and symptoms are related to the affected organ. The patient presented in this article was infected when he was 9 months old. Such condition led to certain alterations like dental improperly positioned teeth, retained deciduous teeth, hipodonty of permanent teeth, atrophy of the upper jaw and dental crowding. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to report the case of a patient affected by Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in the early childhood and to describe the dental development disorders as consequence of this fact.
Cerebral Sinus and Venous Thrombosis Associated with von Willebrand Factor, Independently of Factor VIII
Authors: Terashima Mari , Kataoka Hiroshi , Horikawa Hirosei , Nakagawa Hiroyuki , Taoka Toshiaki , Matsumoto Masanori , Saito Kozue , Kichikawa Kimihiko , Ueno Satoshi
Published: October 2017

Background and purpose

Previous studies have linked procoagulant factor VIII (F VIII) to an increased risk of venous thrombosis, whereas the relation between plasma von Willebrand factor (VWF) and venous thrombosis remains poorly understood. Elevated VWF levels are frequently found in patients with cerebral sinus and venous thrombosis (CSVT), always in association with high F VIII levels. We describe a patient with CSVT accompanied by elevated VWF levels without high F VIII levels.

Case description

A 23-year-old healthy man who had headache noticed difficulty in moving the right hand. On the following day, he lost consciousness and had partial seizures of the right hand. After regaining consciousness, weakness of the right extremities developed. The cranial angiogram confirmed occlusion of the superior sagittal sinus. The levels of VWF and F VIII were 238% and 101.9 IU/dl, respectively. We performed balloon percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and mechanical thrombectomy, leading to successful recanalization of the intracranial sinuses. VWF levels were decreased along with radiographic improvement, independently of F VIII.

Conclusion

VWF may contribute to CSVT and that inhibition of VWF activity potentially has a role in the future treatment of pathological conditions related to venous thrombosis.
Elongated Styloid Process and Cervical Spondylosis
Authors: Unlu Zeliha , Orguc Sebnem , Eskiizmir Gorkem , Aslan Asim , Bayindir Petek
Published: October 2017

Background

Dysphagia, is a significant sign of many different lesions in upper digestive system especially in proximal esophagus. Tumors, gastroesophageal reflux, achalasia and extrinsic compressions are the most common causes that may lead to dysphagia in geriatric population. Cervical osteophyte induced dysphagia, is one of the uncommon reasons of dysphagia, therefore other causes of dysphagia must be excluded to establish the exact diagnosis. Eagle syndrome is one of the considerable reason which may lead to misdiagnosis in patients with cervical osteophytes. In this case report, we represent four patients who had dysphagia due to anteriorly located cervical osteophytes and evaluate the patients with special reference to Eagle syndrome.

Material and methods

After a detailed anamnesis and ENT examination, cervical plain radiographs in four projections and Towne radiographs were obtained for every patient. After that, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of cervical spine and barium swallowing studies were performed to evaluate the presence of esophageal compression.

Results

Eagle syndrome was excluded due to absence of other symptoms and physical signs, eventhough unilateral or bilateral elongation of styloid processes was found in all of the patients.

Conclusion

Cervical osteophytes induced dysphagia is a rare clinical entity, diagnosis should be done by a careful examination, intensive radiologic evaluation. Moreover, all the other causes like Eagle syndrome should be excluded during the diagnosis of cervical osteophyte induced dysphagia.
Successful Management of Multifactorial Colitis in a Recipient of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant: A Case Report
Authors: Al-Anazi Khalid A. , Al-Jasser Asma M. , Abdulwahab Amal , Sahovic Entezam , Almana Hadeel , Fadda Mohammed A. Al
Published: October 2017

Recipients of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant can develop life-threatening complications at any time following their transplants. These complications require repeated clinical assessment, appropriate and thorough screening as well as a comprehensive management approach.

We report a young adult male who received a sibling allograft in the second complete remission of his acute lymphoblastic leukemia at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre in Riyadh. The patient developed severe colitis which was caused by: acute exacerbation of chronic graft versus host disease of the lower gastrointestinal tract, cytomegalovirus disease of the colon and a superadded Salmonella infection caused by food poisoning. The multifactorial colitis was properly investigated and successfully managed. To our knowledge, this is the first case of multifactorial colitis in a recipient of hematopoietic stem cell transplant.
Nizatidine Improves Impaired Salivary Secretion in GERD
Authors: Urita Yoshihisa , Watanabe Toshiyasu , Hike Kazuo , Nanami Makie , Maeda Tadashi , Sasaki Yosuke , Nakayama Asuka , Ishii Takamasa , Domon Kaoru , Ishihara Susumu , Sanaka Masaki , Nakajima Hitoshi , Sugimoto Motonobu
Published: October 2017

During esophageal acid clearance, salivation plays an important role in defending the esophageal mucosa. Nizatidine, a histamine H2 receptor antagonist, inhibits acetylcholine esterase, with a resultant increase in acetylcholine. We experienced a patient with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and impaired salivary secretion who has been successfully treated with nizatidine.

Case report

A 63-year-old female visited our hospital with complaints of heartburn and continuous laryngeal discomfort. Saliva scintigraphy was performed to evaluate the salivary function. Washout ratio was decreased to be 25%–40% in individual salivary gland. After the treatment with nizatidine, salivary scintigraphy demonstrated the increased washout ratios. The values of both parotid glands increased up to 90%, whereas those of submandibular glands improved to be around a normal range. GERD symptoms disappeared completely after treatment. In conclusion, nizatidine may be one of therapeutic options for low salivary excretion.
Forty Years Abuse of Baking Soda, Rhabdomyolysis, Glomerulonephritis, Hypertension Leading to Renal Failure: A Case Report
Authors: Forslund Terje , Koistinen Arvo , Anttinen Jorma , Wagner Bodo , Miettinen Marja
Published: October 2017

We present a patient who had ingested sodium bicarbonate for treatment of alcoholic dyspepsia during forty years at increasing doses. During the last year he had used more than 50 grams daily. He presented with metabolic alkalosis, epileptic convulsions, subdural hematoma, hypertension and rhabdomyolysis with end stage renal failure, for which he had to be given regular intermittent hemodialysis treatment. Untreated hypertension and glomerulonephritis was probably present prior to all these acute incidents. Examination of the kidney biopsy revealed mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis and arterial wall thickening causing nephrosclerosis together with interstitial calcinosis. The combination of all these pathologic changes might be responsible for the development of progressive chronic renal failure ending up with the need for continuous intermittent hemodialysis treatment.
Toxicogenomic Analysis of Cardiotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Hirakawa Brad , Jessen Bart A. , Illanes Oscar , de Peyster Ann , McDermott Thomas , Stevens Gregory J.
Published: October 2017

Evidence of cardiotoxicity in the preclinical testing of drugs will often lead to compound attrition. The standard method for identifying cardiotoxic compounds involves histopathological analysis of tissue sections, a resource intensive process. In an effort to reduce attrition and capture safety endpoints early within the drug discovery paradigm, a more rapid assessment of target organ effects is desired. Here we describe the results of a preliminary study in which a group of common genes were affected by in vivo exposure to compounds known to cause dose-dependant cardiotoxicity. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated intraperitoneally with a single dose of digoxin (20 mg/kg), doxorubicin (30 mg/kg), isoproterenol (70 mg/kg), lipopolysaccharide (10 mg/kg) or carbon tetrachloride (800 mg/kg) and euthanized either 6 or 24 hours post-dose. Digoxin, doxorubicin, isoproterenol, and lipopolysaccharide were chosen for this study based on their diverse mechanisms of cardiotoxicity. Carbon tetrachloride, a known liver toxicant, was chosen as a non-cardiotoxic negative control. Genes commonly affected by all four cardiotoxic compounds were grouped together as a list of potential biomarkers. Gene expression changes were subsequently quantified using quantitative PCR. These genes were compared to those affected by novel experimental compounds previously shown to cause cardiotoxicity in rats. These compounds also affected over half of the genes on the biomarker list, whereas the non-cardiotoxic control compound did not affect any genes on the biomarkers list. These data indicate that measuring changes in gene expression could aid in the prioritization of compounds before they are tested in more resource intensive studies.
Characteristics of Activated Monocyte Phenotype Support R5-Tropic Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Munsaka Sody M. , Agsalda Melissa , Troelstrup David , Hu Ningjie , Yu Qigui , Shiramizu Bruce
Published: October 2017

Background

Microbial translocation has been recognized as an important factor in monocyte activation and contributing to AIDS pathogenesis with elevated plasma lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels, as a marker for microbial translocation, seen in advanced HIV disease. Therefore, the current study was undertaken to assess monocyte activation in vitro by LPS and to determine its impact on monocyte phenotype.

Methods

Monocytes from non-HIV-infected donors were analyzed for CD14, CD16, CD69, TNFα, and CCR5 by flow cytometry pre- and post-stimulation with LPS. In-vitro cultures were then set up to expose non-activated and activated monocytes to R5-, X4-, and dual (R5/X4)-tropic viruses; and the amount of HIV present on the cells was assayed.

Results

Non-HIV-infected monocytes, after LPS stimulation, were confirmed to have an activated phenotype with increase in CD16 and CD69 surface expressions (p < 0.05). The activation phenotype was supported by increase in TNFα production, p < 0.05. The activated monocytes had increased surface CCR5 (from 21% to 98%; p = 0.05); and were found to have more R5-tropic virus than non-activated monocytes (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Following activation by LPS, non-HIV-infected monocytes were found to have increase in surface CCR5. These activated monocytes, when exposed to R5-tropic virus, were found to have more virus compared to non-activated monocytes. The significance of the findings could lie in explaining how microbial translocation plays a role in HIV progression; and possibly promoting CCR5-directed strategies in treating HIV.
Generalized Autoimmunity of ANCA and ASCA Related to Severity of Disease in Autistic Children with GI Disease
Authors: Russo A.J. , Krigsman A , Jepson B , Wakefield Andrew
Published: October 2017

Aim

To assess serum Anti-Neutrophil cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA—PR3 and MPO) and Anti-Saccharomyces Cerevisiæ Antibody (ASCA) levels in autistic children with severe gastrointestinal (GI) disease and to test the hypothesis that there is generalized autoimmunity in a subpopulation of autistic children with severe GI disease and that this autoimmunity is associated with the severity of GI disease.

Subjects and Methods

Serum from 40 autistic children with chronic digestive disease (most with ileo-colonic lymphoid nodular hyperplasia (LNH) and inflammation of the colorectum, small bowel and/or stomach), and 24 controls (13 age matched autistic children with no GI disease and 11 age matched children without autism or GI disease) were tested using ELISAs designed to quantitate ANCA (PR3 and MPO) and ASCA levels. ANCA and ASCA concentration of autistic children with GI disease were compared to GI disease severity (including LNH and erythema).

Results

We previously reported that 6 of the 40 autistic children with GI disease in this study had anti-PR3 ANCA. All 6 of these also had anti-MPO IgG. In this study, we found that 6 of the 40 autistic children also had ASCA and 4 of these children with ASCA also had both anti-PR3 and anti-MPO ANCA. These 4 with ANCA and ASCA had significantly higher GI disease severity, particularly associated with LNH and erythema.

Discussion

These results suggest a general autoimmune response (ANCA and ASCA) in a sub group (high GI disease severity) of autistic children with GI disease. The presence of these autoantibodies may be a useful biomarker for autistic children with severe GI disease.
Evaluation of Community-Directed Operation of Black Fly Traps for Entomological Surveillance of Onchocerca volvulus Transmission in the Madi-Mid North Focus of Onchocerciasis in Northern Uganda
Authors: Loum Denis , Katholi Charles R. , Lakwo Thomson , Habomugisha Peace , Tukahebwa Edridah M. , Unnasch Thomas R.
Published: October 2017

Entomological measures of transmission are important metrics specified by the World Health Organization to document the suppression and interruption of transmission of Onchocerca volvulus, the causative agent of onchocerciasis. These metrics require testing of large numbers of vector black flies. Black fly collection has relied on human landing collections, which are inefficient and potentially hazardous. As the focus of the international community has shifted from onchocerciasis control to elimination, replacement of human landing collections has become a priority. The Esperanza window trap (EWT) has shown promise as an alternative method for collection of Simulium damnosum s.l., the primary vector of O. volvulus in Africa. Here, we report the results of a community-based trial of the EWT in northern Uganda. Traps operated by residents were compared with human landing collections in two communities over 5 months. Three traps, when operated by a single village resident, collected over four times as many S. damnosum as did the two-men collection team. No significant differences were noted among the bait formulations. The results suggest that EWTs may be effectively operated by community residents and that the trap represents a viable alternative to human landing collections for entomological surveillance of O. volvulus transmission.
Uncertainty from the choice of microphysics scheme in convection-permitting models significantly exceeds aerosol effects
Authors: White Bethan , Gryspeerdt Edward , Stier Philip , Morrison Hugh , Thompson Gregory , Kipling Zak
Published: October 2017

Abstract. This study investigates the hydrometeor development and response to cloud droplet number concentration (CDNC) perturbations in convection-permitting model configurations. We present results from a real-data simulation of deep convection in the Congo basin, an idealised supercell case, and a warm-rain large-eddy simulation (LES). In each case we compare two frequently used double-moment bulk microphysics schemes and investigate the response to CDNC perturbations. We find that the variability among the two schemes, including the response to aerosol, differs widely between these cases. In all cases, differences in the simulated cloud morphology and precipitation are found to be significantly greater between the microphysics schemes than due to CDNC perturbations within each scheme. Further, we show that the response of the hydrometeors to CDNC perturbations differs strongly not only between microphysics schemes, but the inter-scheme variability also differs between cases of convection. Sensitivity tests show that the representation of autoconversion is the dominant factor that drives differences in rain production between the microphysics schemes in the idealised precipitating shallow cumulus case and in a subregion of the Congo basin simulations dominated by liquid-phase processes. In this region, rain mass is also shown to be relatively insensitive to the radiative effects of an overlying layer of ice-phase cloud. The conversion of cloud ice to snow is the process responsible for differences in cold cloud bias between the schemes in the Congo. In the idealised supercell case, thermodynamic impacts on the storm system using different microphysics parameterisations can equal those due to aerosol effects. These results highlight the large uncertainty in cloud and precipitation responses to aerosol in convection-permitting simulations and have important implications not only for process studies of aerosol–convection interaction, but also for global modelling studies of aerosol indirect effects. These results indicate the continuing need for tighter observational constraints of cloud processes and response to aerosol in a range of meteorological regimes.
Increased aerosols content in the atmosphere over Ukraine during summer 2010
Authors: Galytska Evgenia , Danylevsky Vassyl , Hommel René , Burrows John P.
Published: October 2017

Abstract. In this paper we assess the influence of one of the most important sources of aerosols in the atmosphere, biomass burning, during summer 2010 on the abundance, dynamics, and properties of aerosols over Ukraine, also considering influences and effects over neighboring countries: ETR, Estonia, Belarus, Poland, Moldova, and Romania. MODIS satellite instrument data were used to study fires distribution. Ground-based remote measurements from the international sun photometers network AERONET and MODIS and CALIOP satellite instruments data were used to determine aerosols content and optical properties in the atmosphere over East Europe. HYSPLIT model was used to further investigate atmospheric dynamics and to simulate pathways of particles transport. We found that the highest air pollution was observed over Moscow in the first half of August 2010, apparently due to the proximity of the most active combustion centers. Significant temporal dynamics of the aerosols content with pronounced pollution peaks during August 7–17 was observed at Ukrainian (Kyiv, Sevastopol), Belarusian (Minsk), Estonian (Toravere) and Romanian (Bucharest) AERONET sites. Aerosols spatio-temporal distribution over Ukraine were constructed and analyzed using MODIS AOD 550 nm data validated by Kyiv AERONET site sunphotometer measurements, and CALIOP AOD 532 nm validated by MODIS AOD data. Vertical distribution of aerosols extinction at 532 nm, retrieved from the measurements by CALIOP, were constructed for the territory of Ukraine at locations where high AOD values were observed during intense wildfires. The influence of the fires on the optical and microphysical properties of aerosol particles, such as size distribution, spectral single-scattering albedo and refractive indices, was analyzed and estimated using Kyiv AERONET measurements, performed during summer 2010. In this study we show that the highest aerosols pollution over Ukraine recorded on summer 2010 was caused by particles transported from the forest fires in Russia. These fires caused the highest AOD 440 nm over Kyiv site, which for August 2010 exceeded the mean value for the same month for the entire observational period by factor of two. Also, the influence of fires resulted in a change of particles microphysical properties in the regions, where pollution was the highest.
Growth characteristics of natural and planted Dahurian larch in northeast China
Authors: Jia Bingrui , Zhou Guangsheng
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Dahurian larch (Larix gmelinii Rupr.) is the dominant species in both natural and planted forests in northeast China, which situated in the southernmost part of the global boreal forest biome and undergoing the greatest climatically induced changes. Published studies (1965–2015) on tree aboveground growth of Larix gmelinii forests in northeast China were collected in this study, critically reviewed, and a comprehensive growth dataset was developed from 123 sites, which distributed between 40.85° N and 53.47° N in latitude, between 118.20° E and 133.70° E in longitude, between 130 m and 1260 m in altitude. The dataset was composed of 776 entries, including growth data (mean tree height, mean DBH, mean tree volume and/or stand volume) and the associated information, i.e., geographical location (latitude, longitude, altitude, aspect and slope), climate (mean annual temperature (MAT) and mean annual precipitation (MAP)), stand description (origin, stand age, stand density and canopy density), and sample regime (observing year, plot area and number). It would provide quantitative references for plantation management practices and boreal forest growth prediction under future climate change. The DOI for the data is https://doi.org/10.1594/PANGAEA.880984.
Development of bridge failure model and fragility curves for infrastructure overturning and deck sliding due to lahars
Authors: Dagá Joaquín , Chamorro Alondra , de Solminihac Hernán , Echaveguren Tomás
Published: October 2017

Abstract. One of the main volcanic processes affecting road infrastructure are lahars, which are flows of water and volcanic material running down the slopes of a volcano and river valleys. Empirical evidence has shown that lahars generate permanent deterioration in bridges and culverts, however, no models are available to estimate failure probability and vulnerability of these structures exposed to this hazard. In this paper, a bridge failure model due to lahars is proposed and, based on this, fragility curves for infrastructure overturning and deck sliding are developed. The failure model considers the limit state of infrastructure overturning moment and the tangential force over the deck caused by lahars, considering bridges with and without piers. Analytical models to estimate these loads were calibrated to simulate the effect of lahars over bridges for the development of fragility curves. Monte Carlo was applied to simulate the probability of failure given by different lahar depths, which is a continuous variable correlated to other lahar flow characteristics, such as velocity and scour demand. Fragility curves of bridges were parameterized by maximum likelihood estimation, using a cumulative lognormal distribution. Parametrized fragility curves were successfully validated for a 95 % confidence level using data of 14 bridges that were reached by lahars in the last 50 years. Validated models confirm that decks fail mainly due to piers and/or abutment overturning rather than sliding forces. Moreover, it was concluded that bridges with piers are more vulnerable to lahars. The developed models can be applied to existing and new bridges exposed to volcanic hazards to estimate the failure probability given an expected lahar intensity. Further research is being conducted to develop an application tool to simulate the effects of expected lahars in existing bridges of a road network.
The influence of thermal properties on power transmission characteristics of HVDC cables – a factor analysis
Authors: Sonerud Björn , Loyens Wendy
Published: October 2017

Power transmission capacity of HVDC cable links depend to a large extent on the voltage level but also on operating temperature and consequently conductor cross-section. A high operating temperature offers larger transmission capacity at a given conductor crosssection. However, an increasing temperature will alsoincrease the conductor loss and the associated costs. The most beneficial design choice is seldom straightforward and involves a trade-off between several design parameters. In this paper the influence of thermal properties of the insulating material and the surrounding soil, as well as operating temperature and conductor cross-section, is investigated by means of factor analysis with respect to important criteria such as transmission capacity, loss and associated cost of operation. This approach is chosen in order to separate different influencing factors as well as elucidating the interaction between said factors.
Investigation of a Flat Connector Concept Potential for Low and Medium Vacuum Conditions
Authors: Driessen A.B.J.M. , Van Duivenbode J. , Wouters P.A.A.F.
Published: October 2017

Higher actuator voltages are required for future generation lithography machines to increase productivity. The operating pressures in combination with relevant insulation distances, can be situated near gas breakdown and cause partial discharge activity, making long-term damage conceivable. High voltage cone-shape connectors with pliable insulation can be applied for the low and medium vacuum range. However, materials and space are restricted making a cone shaped connector not ideal. In this paper, a flat connector concept is presented with a pliable insulation material allowed to be used for the aforementioned application. The permittivity of this material is measured and simulation results of the connector reveal critical design points. A prototype connector is made and its partial discharge inception voltage is characterized for the low and medium vacuum range. The results are discussed and compared with simulations.
Morphology Development, Structure and Dielectric Properties of Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene
Authors: Rytöluoto Ilkka , Ritamäki Mikael , Gitsas Antonis , Pasanen Satu , Lahti Kari
Published: October 2017

This paper outlines our recent study on effects of cast film extrusion and biaxial orientation on the morphological development and dielectric performance of biaxially oriented polypropylene (PP) films based on two capacitor-grade isotactic PP (iPP) raw materials. Results on polymorphic composition, melting behavior, microstructure and dielectric properties are reported. Morphological development during film manufacturing is found to have a profound effect on film structure and dielectric characteristics. Formation of structural defects was traced back to beta --> alfa crystal transformation upon biaxial stretching.
Influence of manufacturing process on electrical properties of LDPE-GnP nanocomposites
Authors: Gaska Karolina , Xu Xiangdong , Kádár Roland , Ganjipour Bahram , Yurgens Avgust , Gubanski Stanislaw
Published: October 2017

In this report electrical properties of the nanocomposite samples, prepared from graphene nanoplatelet (GnP) loaded low density polyethylene (LDPE) by extrusion and compression molding, were examined in order to elucidate the impacts of the nanoplatelets size and material’s manufacturing process. It is shown that the extrusion forces a strong anisotropy in material’s morphology. The graphene nanoplatelets become aligned along the flow direction. As compared to pure LDPE, a significant reductions of the through-plane low field electric conductivity is found in such samples. On the other hand, the samples produced by press molding exhibit slightly higher level of electric conductivity, which is connected to their less aligned microstructure and filler dispersion. For comparison results of measurements on LDPE-graphene monolayer sandwiches are also presented.
Robust measurements of electric conductivity in polyethylene based materials: measurement setup, data processing and impact of sample preparation
Authors: Xu Xiangdong , Karlsson M. , Gaska K. , Gubanski Stanislaw , Hillborg Henrik , Gedde U.W.
Published: October 2017

In this work, a measurement setup and an algorithm are introduced that allow for obtaining and processing the current data during standard measurements of electric conductivity in polymeric insulation materials. Robustness of this setup is demonstrated through dc conductivity measurements of low density polyethylene (LDPE) specimens that were prepared by two different techniques, i.e. compression molding and extrusion, at two independent laboratories (at Chalmers and KTH) from the same raw pellets. The results resented in this paper reveal that the implemented data processing algorithm allows for clear separation of the conduction current level and the external noise and thus for good differentiation between the conductivity levels in the investigated material specimens. In addition, a high reproducibility of the results is obtained for the independently manufactured specimens, suggesting the proposed measurement technique is well suitable for characterization of low conducting dielectrics.
Review of Partial Discharge and Dielectric Loss Tests for Hydropower Generator Bars
Authors: Aakre Torstein Grav , Ildstad Erling , Hvidsten Sverre , Nysveen Arne
Published: October 2017

Condition assessment of hydropower generators is important to ensure high serviceability of power stations. Many of the in-service generators are old and current load operation schemes demands more than the design load, which makes the remaining lifetime of the generators uncertain. The reviewed literature shows many works regarding identifying signature PRPDA patterns for different relevant defects in the generator. Calibration is however impossible, due to variable signal propagation in the generator from the partial discharge source. The results regarding complex permittivity as function of frequency as a measure on water ingress are promising. However, the field grading paint at the ends of the bars are affected by the low frequency and gives a variable capacitance. The literature is still focused on qualitative measurements without giving quantitative answers.
A novel approach to off-clamp partial nephrectomy demonstrates significant improvements in renal injury in an experimental porcine model
Authors: Olvera-Posada Daniel , Lin Shouzhe , Aboalsamh Ghaleb , Haig Aaron , Lobb Ian , Grewal Jaskirandeep , Saha Manujendra N. , Sener Alp
Published: October 2017

Introduction: We sought to design a partial nephrectomy (PN) with contralateral total nephrectomy porcine model and assess the underlying mechanisms of ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) after PN using a novel, clinically approved resection device.Methods: Domestic male pigs (n=9) underwent left lower pole PN, allocated to either standard (Group 1) or no ischemia PN (Group 2), followed by contralateral nephrectomy. Biochemical studies were performed at baseline, Day 2, and Day 7; after sacrifice, kidneys were processed for histological analysis. Apoptotic markers were measured by Western blot analyses. Urinary biomarkers were measured to assess acute kidney injury.Results: At Day 2 following PN, there was a significant rise in serum creatinine in Group 1 compared to Group 2 (355 vs. 136 mmol/L; p=0.008). Intra-renal tissue oxygen saturation after PN was inversely correlated with postoperative creatinine (rs -0.75; p=0.012) and the grade of acute tubular necrosis (rs -0.70; p=0.036). We observed a rise in expression of pro-apoptotic markers and pro-inflammatory markers in Group 1 following PN compared to Group 2. Histological analysis revealed higher grade of apoptosis in Group 1.Conclusions: IRI associated with standard PN has a deleterious impact on acute renal function, markers of tissue injury, and histological parameters, compared to off-clamp PN using the ALTRUS device. We identified several intraoperative and postoperative markers that may be used as predictors for functional and histological injury following PN.
Does cranberry have a role in catheter-associated urinary tract infections?
Authors: Thomas Dominique , Rutman Matthew , Cooper Kimberly , Abrams Andrew , Finkelstein Julia , Chughtai Bilal
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CA-UTIs) are a prevalent and costly condition, with very few therapeutic options. We sought to evaluate the efficacy of an oral cranberry supplement on CA-UTIs over a six-month period. Methods: Subjects with long-term indwelling catheters and recurrent symptomatic CA-UTIs were enrolled to take a once-daily oral cranberry supplement with 36 mg of the active ingredient proanthocyanidin (PACs). Primary outcome was reducing the number of symptomatic CA-UTIs. This was defined by ≥103 (cfu)/mL of ≥1 bacterial species in a single catheter urine specimen and signs and symptoms compatible with CA-UTI. Secondary outcomes included bacterial counts and resistance patterns to antibiotics.Results: Thirty-four patients were enrolled in the trial; 22 patients (mean age 77.22 years, 77.27% were men) completed the study. Cranberry was effective in reducing the number of symptomatic CA-UTIs in all patients (n=22). Resistance to antibiotics was reduced by 28%. Furthermore, colony counts were reduced by 58.65%. No subjects had adverse events while taking cranberry.Conclusions: The cranberry supplement reduced the number of symptomatic CA-UTIs, antibiotic resistances, and major causative organisms in this cohort. Larger, placebo-controlled studies are needed to further define the role of cranberry in CA-UTIs.
The histopathological effects of intracavernosal mitomycin-C injection in a rat Peyronie's disease model
Authors: Kaya Engin , Kibar Yusuf , Yilmaz Sercan , Ozcan Ayhan , Kopru Burak , Ebiloglu Turgay , Irkılata Hasan Cem
Published: October 2017

Introduction: We aimed to evaluate whether or not mitomycin-C (MMC) has an antifibrotic effect on transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)-induced Peyronie’s disease (PD) in a rat model.Methods: Eighteen 12-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: Group 1=TGF-β1 (n=7); Group 2=TGF-β1+MMC (n=7); and Group 3=Sham group (0.25 ml bovine serum albumin injected) (n=4). All groups were sacrificed on the sixth week of the procedure and their penises were excised. All penis specimens were evaluated semi-quantitatively and quantitatively with histochemical, immunohistochemistry, and image analysis.Results: Both Group 1 and Group 2 had significantly higher fibrosis scores and lower elastic fibers in both outer surface of tunica albuginea (TA) and subsinusoidal area compared with Group 3. When compared with Group 1, the amount of collagen was significantly decreased in Group 2. Intracavernosal MMC injection (Group 2) ended up with lower elastic fibers when compared with Group 1. According to the quantitative analyses, when compared with Groups 1 and 3, lower dorsal, ventral, and trabecular thickening values were seen in Group 2. These parameters were only statistically significant when compared with Group 1, suggesting the antifibrotic effect of TGF-β1-induced fibrosis. Both Groups 1 and 2 showed lower decorin staining levels in subsinusoidal areas of tunica albuginea (SATA) and subsinusoidal areas of trabecular wall (SATW) when compared with Group 3. The statistically significant difference was only detected between Group 1 and Group 3.Conclusions: Our study demonstrates the antifibrotic effects of MMC on PD. Further clinical studies are necessary to make inferences regarding its clinical use.
Management of advanced kidney cancer: Canadian Kidney Cancer Forum (CKCF) consensus update 2017
Authors: Reaume M. Neil , Basappa Naveen S. , Wood Lori , Kapoor Anil , Bjarnason Georg A. , Blais Normand , Breau Rodney H. , Canil Christina , Cheung Patrick , Conter Henry J. , Hotte Sebastien J. , Jeldres Claudio , Jewett Michael A.S. , Karakiewicz Pierre I. , Kollmannsberger Christian , Patenaude Francois , So Alan , Soulières Denis , Venner Peter , Violette Phillippe , Zalewski Pawel , Chappell Heather , North Scott A.
Published: October 2017

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