bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A suitable k-epsilon model for CFD simulation of pump-around jet mixing tank with moderate jet reynolds number
Authors: Phapatarinan Satapan , Bumrungthaichaichan Eakarach , Wattananusorn Santi
Published: August 2018

This paper presents the appropriate turbulence model for predicting the overall mixing time inside an open 45° inclined side entry pump-around jet mixing tank with moderate jet Reynolds number of about 17,515. The model was carefully developed by using appropriate hexahedral grid arrangement and proper numerical methods. The two different k-epsilon turbulence models, including realizable k-epsilon model and low Reynolds number k-epsilon model, were simulated. The overall mixing times predicted by these turbulence models were compared with the previous data reported by Patwardhan (Chem. Eng. Sci. 57 (2002) 1307-1318). The results revealed that the low Reynolds number k-epsilon model was a suitable model for predicting the overall mixing time of jet mixing tank with moderate jet Reynolds number.
Experimental investigation of air characteristics during dehumidification in the multilayer desiccant bed column system
Authors: Sawardsuk Prueksa , Sripinyowanich Jongyingcharoen Jiraporn , Cheevitsopon Ekkapong
Published: August 2018

The gold of this research is to investigate air characteristics during dehumidification process using the multilayer desiccant bed. Silica gel packing in the multilayer column was used as a desiccant material. Airflow direction in the column was designed in a zigzag path passing each desiccant layer. The changes in temperature and relative humidity of exit air were recorded after dehumidification at different airflow rates of 18, 36, and 72 m3/h. In the desiccant regeneration process, moisture in silica gel was removed by 85°C of hot air at varied airflow rates. The characteristics of exit air after regeneration were also monitored. The result revealed that air humidity ratio was significantly decreased using multilayer desiccant bed column. The highest rates of air dehumidification and desiccant regeneration were observed in the first 5 min operation. The highest air dehumidification rate was 12.82 g/min at the airflow rate of 72 m3/h and the highest regeneration rate of desiccant was 6.70 g/min at the airflow rate of 72 m3/h. In addition, the dual column of multilayer desiccant bed can be successfully applied to cyclic operation of dehumidification and regeneration when the cycle time were 5 min and airflow rate 36 and 72 m3/h.
Effect of drying air condition and feed composition on the properties of orange juice spray dried powder
Authors: Khwanpruk Kankanit , Akkaraphenphan Chanida , Wattananukit Patipan , Kaewket Worakarn , Chusai Suttiphat
Published: August 2018

This research aims to investigate the effect of inlet air humidity, drying temperature and feed composition on the properties of orange juice spray dried powder. Maltodextrin (DE10-12) was used as carrier material. Full factorial design was applied to this research. Inlet air with humidity of 10 g/kg dry air and 20 g/kg dry air, inlet drying air temperature of 140°C 160°C and 180°C and feed concentration of 40°Brix which varied the weight ratio of orange juice solid content to maltodextrin of 1:3 and 1:4.5 were examined. All spray drying conditions were performed in replicate. Ascorbic acid, moisture content water activity, pH and product yield were analysed. Analysis of variance revealed that humidity of inlet air influenced significantly on product yield, moisture content, water activity. Besides, the quality of product in term of ascorbic acid content was affected significantly by drying temperature and fraction of maltodextrin. Higher drying temperatures lead to lesser of ascorbic acid content and the more fraction of maltodextrin used in feed, the more ascorbic acid content retained in product.
The study of quality attributes of parboiled rice during steaming process with revolved sieve
Authors: Chungcharoen Thatchapol , Srisang Naruebodee , Srisang Siriwan
Published: August 2018

The steaming process with revolved sieve was studied as a function of steaming time and revolution velocity. The quality of parboiled rice in terms of thermal property, head rice yield and color was investigated and compared to the conventional steaming process such as fixed sieve. The experimental results showed that the steaming process with revolved sieve had advantage over the steaming process with fixed sieve. It led to a steamed sample with higher DG higher head rice yield and lower whiteness value. The required steaming time for a regularity quality by a steaming process with revolved sieve was also shorter. Moreover, the steaming time affected the qualities of parboiled rice. The long steaming time provided the higher DG and head rice yield and lower whiteness value of parboiled rice. Considering revolution velocity, it was found that the revolution velocity did not affect the qualities of parboiled rice. However, the revolution velocity of 5 rpm with steaming time of 5 min provided the difference of quality at each layer.
Rapid evaluation of moisture content in bamboo chips using diode array near infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Shrestha Amrit , Sirisomboon Panmanas
Published: August 2018

Moisture in biomass plays important role during storage, combustion and pelletization. In order to measure moisture content in bamboo chips, two diode array near-infrared instruments, NIR-Gun (600-1100 nm at 2 nm intervals) and Micro-NIR (1150-2150 nm at 7 nm intervals), were used for scanning bamboo chips. Total number of samples used for developing model after removing outliers was 252. The circumference and moisture content of bamboos used were in the range between 16-39 cm and 39-86% wet basis (wb) respectively. Partial least squares regression technique was used to develop the model to predict the moisture content in bamboo chips. The R2, SECV, SEP, bias and RPD of optimum model of NIR-Gun were found to be 0.924, 2.871% wb, 2.385% wb, -0.250% wb and 3.656, while for Micro-NIR model the values were found to be 0.743, 4.349% wb, 4.499% wb, 0.026% wb and 1.972 respectively. In prediction of moisture content in bamboo chip, both models show the effect of different constituents of bamboo more than moisture. This study indicates that the results are suitable for screening the moisture content in bamboo chips. This would be helpful for process controlling using the moisture parameter during drying, pelletization and thermochemical conversion.
Effects of low temperature drying processing on longan fruit
Authors: Pongsuttiyakorn Thadchapong , trusphimai Pachareeporn , Sooraksa Pitikhate , Pornchaloempong Pimpen
Published: August 2018

In this study, the single-stage drying in tray dryer at air temperatures of 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80°C is modelled and investigated. The longan fruits, E-dor variety, are peeled and seeded before testing. The drying rate is significantly influenced by the drying techniques and temperatures. Drying rats are initialized adjustment constant rate periods at 60 70 and 80°C. The rate of moisture removal is rapidly changed drastically during the falling rate period. The Midilli model with high R2 and low χ2 and RMSE is the most suitable model for predictability of longan drying. Variation rates of quality of the water activity, the shrinkage, and the browning index are also reported.
Effects of pandan aqueous extract on physico-chemical properties of normal and waxy rice starches
Authors: Deetae Pawinee , Klumrat Thungpon , Nakakitwibool Warot , Panya Atikorn
Published: August 2018

Pandan aqueous extract (PAE) has traditionally been used as a food additive in Southeast Asia to enhance their flavor, color and health benefits. The purpose of this research was to investigate the effects of PAE on physico-chemical properties of normal rice starch (NRS) and waxy rice starch (WRS). Results indicate that addition of PAE significantly (p < 0.05) affected the physico-chemical properties of rice starches. For pasting properties, PAE significantly increased peak viscosity, breakdown and pasting temperature of NRS, while PAE decreased peak viscosity, breakdown, final viscosity and setback values of WRS. The addition of PAE to NRS and WRS significantly (p < 0.05) reduced gel hardness and gel adhesiveness by more than 50% compare to native control gels. The gelatinization thermal properties of both NRS and WRS were significantly (p < 0.05) increased when PAE was included. Only the gelatinization enthalpy of WRS was influence by the PAE. It was concluded that the addition of PAE considerably improved the thermal stability of WRS.
Application of ozone ultrafine bubble water for cleaning and sterilizing the dialysis circuit
Authors: Nakahara Yukiko , Miyazaki Kazutoku , Nakao Junji , Zhu Shijie
Published: August 2018

The dialysis circuit was washed by the ultrafine bubble (UFB) water and ozone UFB water and sodium hypochlorite aqueous solution. The effect of washing time, ozone concentration of UFB water, influence of UFB water on artificial dialysis equipment, etc. were investigated. The cleaning and sterilizing effect of ozone UFB water passed through the filter for artificial dialysis was verified. It was confirmed that there were no colony bacteria in the circuit which was washed by the ozone UFB water for 1 hour. Ozone UFB water has the same bactericidal effect as sodium hypochlorite. As an alternative of sodium hypochlorite, we are expecting its application to the cleaning and sterilization
of ozone UFB water for dialysis circuit.
Atmometer – based irrigation scheduling system for drip – irrigated onion (Allium cepa L.)
Authors: Villaroman Cresan Joy , Espino Armando , Lavarias Jeffrey , Taylan Victorino
Published: August 2018

This study was conducted to develop an atmometer-based irrigation scheduling system for drip-irrigated onion production. The study was conducted at San Agustin, San Jose City Nueva Ecija from November 2016 – March 2017. Three treatments composing of three replicates were considered in the research. Treatments 1 and 2 were based on the recorded atmometer readings with an irrigation interval of two days and five days respectively. Treatment 3 is a soil moisture-based irrigation scheduling with a management allowed deficit of 50 %. Calibration curved was obtained by comparing the atmometer readings with the estimated evapotranspiration using Modified Penman-Monteith equation. It was used in computing the crop water requirement for Treatments 1 and 2. The important parameters that used to answer the objective of the study such as plant height, crop yield, bulb weight, bulb diameter, water use and water productivity, were acquired during and after crop production. The statistical analysis used in the study was Analysis of Variance for Complete Randomized Design and paired T-test. Based on the result, Treatment 1 was highly useful in increasing water productivity without sacrificing the crop qualities.
Effects of gender of dairy or beef cattle and the number of pair of permanent incisors on carcass traits
Authors: Tuntivisoottikul Kunya , Limsupavanich Rutcharin
Published: August 2018

Effects of group of cattle (gender of dairy or beef cattle) and number of pair of permanent incisors (0-4 pairs) on carcass traits were investigated. Data collected from 2,059 carcasses were obtained from beef cattle cooperative in 2016. Carcass traits included slaughter weight (wt.), hot carcass wt., percentage of hot or chilled carcass wt., chilling loss, skin wt., and marbling score. Factors included group of cattle and number of pair of permanent incisors observed in each cattle group, while slaughter wt. was a co-variable in the statistical model. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze marbling score. Results showed that group of cattle affected slaughter wt., hot carcass wt., percentage of hot or chilled carcass wt., skin wt. (P<0.0001), and chilling loss (P<0.05). Number of pair of permanent incisors within each cattle group affected all carcass traits (p<0.05), except chilling loss (p>0.05). Female and male beef cattle in all ages had higher hot carcass wt. and percentage of hot or chilled carcass wt. than female and male dairy cattle. The highest marbling score of 5 was found in female and male beef and female dairy cattle with 4 pairs of permanent incisors. However, majority of cattle had marbling score 2.
Effect of ractopamine on physicochemical characteristics and collagen solubility in finishing pigs
Authors: Chaosap Chanporn , Kaewthaworn Krongkaew , Sitthigripong Ronachai , Sivapirunthep Panneepa , Chaweewan Kamon
Published: August 2018

The objective of this study was to investigate physicochemical characteristics and collagen solubility of pigs fed with dietary ractopamine (RAC) during finishing period. Thirty of three-way crossbred pigs (Large White × Landrace × Duroc) with an initial bodyweight (BW) of 18.0 ± 0.5 kg were randomly assigned to one to three dietary RAC inclusions (0, 20, or 40 mg/kg) fed during finishing period (60-100 kg BW). Each group consisted of five gilts and five barrows. After 109 day of raising period, all pigs were slaughtered at the average weight of 100 kg. Longissimus dorsi muscle (LD) was taken from each carcass after overnight chill and analyzed for physical characteristics, chemical composition, and collagen solubility. The LD from pigs fed 40 mg/kg of RAC had lower a* value (p < 0.01) than others. Pigs fed with 40 mg/kg of RAC had higher Warner-Bratzler shear force (p < 0.05) than pigs fed without RAC. Pigs fed with dietary RAC had lower glycogen content than control (p < 0.01). While other chemical compositions and collagen solubility of LD were not affected by dietary RAC (p > 0.05). Gilts had larger muscle fibers (p < 0.01), lower glycogen content (p < 0.05), higher content of insoluble collagen (p < 0.05), total collagen (p = 0.054), and collagen solubility (p = 0.054) than barrows.
Effect of calcium precursors on pelletized property and cyclic CO2 capture performance
Authors: Wongsakulphasatch Suwimol , Sukchoknamchai Krasanai , Suthapot Natthapong , Praikaew Wanichaya , Chaisuk Choowong , Kiatkittipong Worapon , Laosiripojana Navadol , Assabumrungrat Suttichai
Published: August 2018

CaO is widely used for capturing CO2 in large scale application however the work on the manufacture of CaO based pellets for the application of CO2 capture is relatively limited. In this research investigated the effect of calcium precursors (Ca(OH)2, Ca(NO3)2 and Ca(CH3COO)2) and their synthesis method (sol-mixing and wet-mixing) on pelletization. Adsorbent synthesized from Ca(CH3COO)2 as a precursor using sol-mixing pelletize to porous spherical provide the best mechanical strength and CO2 adsorption capacity 0.51 and 0.41 g CO2/ g CaO at first cycle and tenth cycle respectively. The outstanding cyclic performance of Ca(CH3COO)2 sol-mixing can be ascribed to the presence of inert support material i.e. Ca9Al6O18 and Ca12Al14O33 with suitable pore volume to prevent sintering of CaO and structure collapsing at high temperature.
Palliativmedizin
Authors: Nauck Friedemann , Jansky Maximiliane
Published: August 2018

Eine flächendeckende Umsetzung qualitativ hochwertiger Palliativversorgung setzt die Weiterentwicklung der Strukturen für die allgemeine und spezialisierte
Palliativmedizin, aber auch von Forschung und Lehre voraus, um die umfassende Behandlung und Begleitung von Patienten mit inkurablen und fortschreitenden
Grunderkrankungen auch zukünftig leisten zu können. Neben der Expertise in medizinischen, pflegerischen, psychosozialen, ethischen und rechtlichen
Fragestellungen bedarf es einer spezifischen Haltung. Das Zusammenspiel von klinischer Versorgung – in der die intensive Betreuung und Begleitung der Patienten
und ihrer Angehörigen überhaupt erst möglich wird – und Förderung der Strukturen für den Wissenserwerb (Forschung) und für die Wissensvermittlung (Lehre), ist
die Grundvoraussetzung für eine weitere Entwicklung der Hospizarbeit und Palliativmedizin in Deutschland.

Der vorliegende Beitrag beschreibt den aktuellen Stand der Palliativversorgung aus klinischer Sicht anhand der ambulanten und stationären Strukturen, sowie der
aktuellen Gesetzgebung und den Stand der derzeitigen palliativmedizinischen Forschung und Lehre.
The Invention of New Methodologies: An Opportunity for Dating Natural Products
Authors: Fensterbank Louis , Barbazanges Marion
Published: August 2018

This Account surveys almost two decades of methodological developments and their straightforward applications to the total synthesis of simple natural products. The main directions covered include radical chemistry and cascades, electrophilic catalysis based on coinage metals, and asymmetric synthesis based on bis(sulfoxides) auxiliaries.

1 Introduction

2 Radical Cascades

2.1 N-Cyanamides

2.2 Homolytic Substitution at Sulfur Atom to Give Sultines

3 Electrophilic Catalysis Based on Platinum(II) and Gold(I) Complexes

4 From Alkylydene Bis(sulfoxides) to Chiral Carboxylic Acids

5 Conclusion and Perspectives
Redox potential replica exchange molecular dynamics at constant pH in AMBER: Implementation and validation
Authors: Cruzeiro Vinícius Wilian D. , Amaral Marcos S. , Roitberg Adrian E.
Published: August 2018

Redox processes are important in chemistry, with applications in biomedicine, chemical analysis, among others. As many redox experiments are also performed at a fixed value of pH, having an efficient computational method to support experimental measures at both constant redox potential and pH is very important. Such computational techniques have the potential to validate experimental observations performed under these conditions and to provide additional information unachievable experimentally such as an atomic level description of macroscopic measures. We present the implementation of discrete redox and protonation states methods for constant redox potential Molecular Dynamics (CEMD), for coupled constant pH and constant redox potential MD (C(pH,E)MD), and for Replica Exchange MD along the redox potential dimension (E-REMD) on the AMBER software package. Validation results are presented for a small system that contains a single heme group: N-acetylmicroperoxidase-8 (NAcMP8) axially connected to a histidine peptide. The methods implemented allow one to make standard redox potential (Eo) predictions with the same easiness and accuracy as pKa predictions using the constant pH molecular dynamics and pH-REMD methods currently available on AMBER. In our simulations, we can correctly describe, in agreement also with theoretical predictions, the following behaviors: when a redox-active group is reduced, the pKa of a near pH-active group increases because it becomes easier for a proton to be attached; equivalently, when a pH-active group is protonated, the standard redox potential (Eo) of an adjacent redox-active group rises. Furthermore, our results also show that E-REMD is able to achieve faster statistical convergence than CEMD or C(pH,E)MD. Moreover, computational benchmarks using our methodologies show high-performance of GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) accelerated calculations in comparison to conventional CPU (Central Processing Unit) calculations.
Density functional study of dendrimer molecules in solvents of varying quality
Authors: Zhang Yuchong , Valiya Parambathu Arjun , Chapman Walter G.
Published: August 2018

Modified inhomogeneous statistical associating fluid theory (iSAFT) density functional theory is extended to dendrimer molecules in solvents of varying quality. The detailed structures of isolated dendrimers in implicit solvent are calculated and have a semi-quantitative agreement with simulation results available in the literature. The dendrimers form dense-core structures under all conditions, while their radius of gyration follows different scaling laws. Factors that affect the quality of the solvent are systematically studied in the explicit solvent case. It is found that the solvent size, density, chemical affinity and temperature all play a role in determining a solvent to be good or poor. New molecular dynamics simulations are performed to validate the iSAFT results. Our results provide insight into the phase behavior of dendrimer solutions as well as guidance in practical applications.
Interplay of cation ordering and thermoelastic properties of spinel structure MgGa2O4
Authors: Hirschle C. , Schreuer J. , Galazka Z.
Published: August 2018

The coefficient of thermal expansion and elastic stiffnesses of spinel structure MgGa2O4 were determined from 103 K to 1673 K using dilatometry and resonant ultrasound spectroscopy. The state of cation order was investigated on specimens quenched from temperatures up to 1473 K via single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Even at room-temperature, the material is stiffer than what was expected from DFT simulations at 0 K, however, the stiffness falls within the predicted range based on the stiffness of the constituent oxides of MgGa2O4. The anisotropy of its longitudinal elastic stiffness is low, whereas there is a high anisotropy of the shear resistance compared to other cubic materials. At about 820 K–860 K, the temperature dependences of both thermal expansion and elastic properties change rapidly. Cation reordering also starts in this temperature range; the state of order is static at lower temperatures. Thus, MgGa2O4 undergoes a glass-like transition when heated above 820 K–860 K, where the state of cation order starts relaxing towards equilibrium in laboratory timescales. Landau-theory for nonconvergent cation ordering can describe the observed cation order at elevated temperatures well.
Whistler modes in highly nonuniform magnetic fields. III. Propagation near mirror and cusp fields
Authors: Stenzel R. L. , Urrutia J. M.
Published: August 2018

The properties of helicon modes in highly nonuniform magnetic fields are studied experimentally. The waves propagate in an essentially unbounded uniform laboratory plasma. Helicons with mode number m = 1 are excited with a magnetic loop with dipole moment across the dc magnetic field. The wave fields are measured with a three-component magnetic probe movable in three orthogonal directions so as to resolve the spatial and temporal wave properties. The ambient magnetic field has the topology of a mirror or a cusp, produced by the superposition of a uniform axial field B0 and the field of a current-carrying loop with the axis along B0. The novel finding is the reflection of whistlers by a strong mirror magnetic field. The reflection arises when the magnetic field changes on a scale length shorter than the whistler wavelength. The simplest explanation for the reflection mechanism is the strong gradient of the refractive index which depends on the density and magnetic field. More detailed observations show that the incident wave splits when the k vector makes an angle larger than 90° with respect to B0 which produces a parallel phase velocity component opposite to that of the incident wave. The reflection coefficient has been estimated to be close to unity. Interference between reflected and incident waves creates nodes in which the whistler mode becomes linearly polarized. When the magnetic field topology is that of a reversed field configuration (FRC), the incident wave is absorbed near the three-dimensional (3D) magnetic null point which prevents wave reflections. However, waves outside the separatrix are not absorbed and continue to propagate around the null point. When waves are excited inside the FRC, their polarization and helicon mode are reversed. Implications of these observations on research in space plasmas and helicon sources are pointed out.
A platform for x-ray Thomson scattering measurements of radiation hydrodynamics experiments on the NIF
Authors: LeFevre H. J. , Ma K. , Belancourt P. X. , MacDonald M. J. , Döppner T. , Huntington C. M. , Johnsen E. , Keiter P. A. , Kuranz C. C.
Published: August 2018

We present an experimental design for a radiation hydrodynamics experiment at the National Ignition Facility that measures the electron temperature of a shocked region using the x-ray Thomson scattering technique. Previous National Ignition Facility experiments indicate a reduction in Rayleigh-Taylor instability growth due to high energy fluxes, compared to the shocked energy flux, from radiation and electron heat conduction. In order to better quantify the effects of these energy fluxes, we modified the previous experiment to allow for non-collective x-ray Thomson scattering to measure the electron temperature. Photometric calculations combined with synthetic scattering spectra demonstrate an estimated noise.
Polarization-controlled terahertz super-focusing
Authors: Zang XiaoFei , Mao ChenXi , Guo XuGuang , You GuanJun , Yang He , Chen Lin , Zhu YiMing , Zhuang SongLin
Published: August 2018

Metasurfaces have shown unprecedented capabilities in manipulating the phase, intensity, and polarization of electromagnetic waves. The coupling efficiency of surface plasmon polaritons is overcome by polarization sensitivity metasurfaces, but they face challenges in the application of high-intensity-based SPPs confined to the surface of a metal. Based on spiral arrays combined with a concentric groove, we experimentally demonstrate the application-oriented and polarization-controlled terahertz superfocusing by emitting high-efficiency radially convergent SPPs into free space to form a focal spot beyond the diffraction limit. The full wave at half maximum of the focal spot is 0.38λ, and it shows tunable intensity (the overall intensity of the focused spot can be tuned) by controlling the polarization state of the incident waves. This work paves a way towards imaging, data storage, and lithography.
Dynamical conductivity of the dense semiclassical plasmas on the basis of the effective potential
Authors: Shalenov E. O. , Dzhumagulova K. N. , Ramazanov T. S. , Röpke G. , Reinholz H.
Published: August 2018

New results on the dynamical conductivity and dynamical collision frequency of dense semiclassical hydrogen plasmas on the basis of the effective interaction potential (taking into account screening and diffraction effects) are presented. The electron density ne and temperature T vary in the domains 1021 cm−3<ne<1024 cm−3 and 104 K<T<106 K, correspondingly. A semiclassical method has been used for the calculation of the collision frequency. Using a generalized Drude formula, the dynamical conductivity has been investigated. The influence of electron-electron interactions was taken into account at the level of collision frequency via a renormalization factor. The results of the dynamical conductivity show good agreement with the data of other authors, notably with the molecular-dynamics simulation, which also includes electron-electron interactions.
Enhanced p-type conduction in AlGaN grown by metal-source flow-rate modulation epitaxy
Authors: Luo Weike , Liu Bin , Li Zhonghui , Li Liang , Yang Qiankun , Pan Lei , Li Chuanhao , Zhang Dongguo , Dong Xun , Peng Daqing , Yang Feng , Zhang Rong
Published: August 2018

A metal-source flow-rate modulation epitaxy method is reported to enhance the hole concentration of Mg-doped AlGaN grown by metal organic chemical vapor deposition. The hole concentration of p-type AlGaN (Al content 0.43) is increased to 2.3 × 1017 cm−3 at room temperature by this method, which is about ten times higher than that of the conventional growth. The resistivity was found to be as low as 12.7 Ω·cm. Furthermore, the effective acceptor activation energy (EA) in the AlGaN films (Al content 0.32–0.43) was determined to be 20–22 meV, several times smaller than EA in p-GaN. Secondary ion mass spectroscopy measurements demonstrated that uniformly Mg-doped AlGaN structures with spatially modulated Al compositions were formed using this technique. It is suggested that the enhancement of hole concentration benefits from the modulation of the valence band edge.
Tuning the decay of Mn2+ emission via magnetically coupling with Cr3+ in ZnGa2O4
Authors: Su Jun , Han Yuhong , Meng Suqian , Yang Xiaobao , Ye Shi , Zhang Qinyuan
Published: August 2018

Mn2+ emission tends to saturate under irradiation of high flux light, which is first caused by its long decay lifetime ascribing to the spin-forbidden transition of 4T1 → 6A1. Coupling with hetero-transition metal ions to alter the spin state of Mn2+ is a potential way to improve it. In this research, we attempt to provide evidence for the exchange coupling interaction between Mn2+ and Cr3+ in the ZnGa2O4 material and figure out the lifetime variation of Mn2+ emission. A faster decay of Mn2+ emission is achieved when elevating the Cr3+ concentration rather than the Mn2+ concentration, and the dominant cause of energy transfer from Mn2+ to Cr3+ is ruled out. Electron spin resonance results illustrate the stronger spin relaxation of Mn2+ 3d electrons imposed by Cr3+ than that imposed by the other Mn2+ ions. These phenomena suggest the existence of coupling between Mn2+ and the neighboring Cr3+, which is evidenced by the first principles calculation. It is further convinced by the total spin quantum number for the Mn2+, Cr3+ singly doped, and codoped systems, which is close to 3/2, 3/2, and 5/2, respectively, according to the derived magnetic susceptibility data. This research proposes a strategy for anti-saturating the Mn2+ emission in phosphors.
Note: Elastic wave velocity measurement using ultrasonic system with two-reflectors
Authors: Li L. , Whitaker M. L. , Weidner D. J.
Published: August 2018

We report an experiment protocol for ultrasonic velocity measurements carried out in a synchrotron-based multi-anvil high-pressure apparatus. By adding a second reflector in the cell assembly, ultrasonic signals are significantly stabilized for experiments where samples experience structural changes such as phase transition or partial melting. Features of the elastic wave can be calculated from acoustic impedance allowing us to evaluate the possible interference between the sample reflection and other internal multiple reflections. This new protocol allows various forms of samples including cold-pressed powder samples, for which grain size and porosity can be monitored and controlled in situ during the annealing process.
Screening of resonant magnetic perturbation fields by poloidally varying toroidal plasma rotation
Authors: Li L. , Liu Y. Q. , Loarte A. , Schmitz O. , Liang Y. , Zhong F. C.
Published: August 2018

The angular frequency of the subsonic equilibrium toroidal flow in a tokamak plasma is often assumed constant at magnetic flux surfaces, i.e., the rotation frequency does not vary along the poloidal angle of the flux surface. However, there are several cases where this symmetry is broken. An interesting situation is a recently observed complex flow pattern induced by magnetic field line ergodization, in the presence of the tri-dimensional (3-D) resonant magnetic perturbation (RMP) [Schmitz et al., Nucl. Fusion 56, 066008 (2016)]. A new flow model including poloidally varying rotation frequencies has been implemented in the full resistive linear MHD code MARS-F [Liu et al., Phys. Plasmas 7, 3681 (2000)], allowing poloidal variation of the angular frequency of the equilibrium toroidal rotation in a generic toroidal geometry. The effect of this asymmetric flow, on top of a poloidally symmetric toroidal flow, on the plasma response to RMP fields is numerically investigated. It is found that a poloidally varying toroidal flow component enhances the favourable average curvature induced plasma screening of the applied 3-D field, for low toroidal flow velocities. At faster flow, when the resistive-inertial response becomes important, the asymmetric toroidal flow reduces the plasma screening. The largest effect is found to come from the m = 1 component of the poloidal asymmetry in the toroidal rotation frequency.
Note: Precision balance for sub-miliNewton resolution direct thrust measurement
Authors: Karadag Burak , Cho Shinatora , Funaki Ikkoh
Published: August 2018

We attempted to test the suitability of a commercial precision balance as a simple alternative sub-miliNewton resolution continuous thrust stand on a vertically oriented 300 W-class Hall thruster. The measured thrust data were in the range of 1-10 mN with a maximum error of 0.1 mN. The performance of the precision balance was compared to the performance of a hanging pendulum thrust stand. The measured thrust from the precision balance falls within the standard error of the hanging pendulum indicating good quantitative agreement.
Oligodendrocyte precursor survival and differentiation requires chromatin remodeling by Chd7 and Chd8
Authors: Marie Corentine , Clavairoly Adrien , Frah Magali , Hmidan Hatem , Yan Jun , Zhao Chuntao , Van Steenwinckel Juliette , Daveau Romain , Zalc Bernard , Hassan Bassem , Thomas Jean-Léon , Gressens Pierre , Ravassard Philippe , Moszer Ivan , Martin Donna M. , Lu Q. Richard , Parras Carlos
Published: August 2018

Significance

Oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) constitute the main proliferative cells in the adult brain and deregulation of OPC proliferation-differentiation balance results in either glioma formation or defective (re)myelination. Mutations in chromatin remodelers
CHD7
and
CHD8
are the cause of CHARGE syndrome and some autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Here we show that Chd7 protects OPCs from apoptosis by chromatin closing and gene repression of
p53
, while Chd7 induces chromatin opening and gene activation of OPC-differentiation regulators. Chd7 is, however, dispensable for oligodendrocyte stage progression, consistent with Chd8 compensatory function, as suggested by their common chromatin-binding profiles, including ASD-risk–associated genes. Our results thus involve oligodendroglia in ASD and CHARGE and offer new avenues to understand and modulate CHD7/CHD8 functions in normal and pathological brain development.
Structure of the mammalian TRPM7, a magnesium channel required during embryonic development
Authors: Duan Jingjing , Li Zongli , Li Jian , Hulse Raymond E. , Santa-Cruz Ana , Valinsky William C. , Abiria Sunday A. , Krapivinsky Grigory , Zhang Jin , Clapham David E.
Published: August 2018

Significance

Ion channels are pore-forming proteins spanning biological membranes. Transient receptor potential ion channels are a subclass of ion channel proteins, characterized by nonselective permeability to cations such as sodium, calcium, magnesium, and zinc, and little voltage sensitivity; their gating is still an area of active investigation. TRPM6 and TRPM7 are ubiquitously expressed with prominent roles in early embryonic development. Uniquely, these channels also include an active kinase domain. The functions of TRPM6 and TRPM7 are correlated with proteolytic cleavage of the kinase domain, which is then translocated to the nucleus to phosphorylate histones and regulate gene expression. Here we describe the structure of the TRPM7 transmembrane regions and compare its features to other ion channels.
An international systems-theoretic comparison of hospital accreditation: developing an implementation typology
Authors: Chuang Sheuwen , Howley Peter P , Gonzales Shawon S
Published: August 2018

Objective

The integration of quality indicators into the accreditation process has been recognized as a promising strategy worldwide. This study was to explore the implementation patterns of hospital accreditation through the lens of a systems-theory based model, and determine an international accreditation implementation typology.

Design

A qualitative comparative study of five established international hospital accreditation systems was undertaken based on a systems-theoretic holistic healthcare systems relationship model. A set of key attributes relevant to three systems-theoretic model relationships guided data collection, comparison and synthesis.

Setting

Hospital accreditation systems in five countries: America, Canada, Australia, Taiwan and France.

Results

An accreditation implementation typology was developed based on the data synthesis of the similarities and differences among the relationships. A typology including five implementation types of hospital accreditation systems (TYPE I–V) was induced. TYPE I is a basic stand-alone accreditation system. The higher types represent stronger relationships among accreditation system, healthcare organizations and quality measurement systems. The five settings have shifted their accreditation approaches from the basic type (TYPE I).

Conclusions

The implementation typology of hospital accreditation could serve as a roadmap for refining hospital accreditation systems toward an integrative approach for continuous quality improvement.
Asymmetry in Synergistic Interaction Between Wheat streak mosaic virus and Triticum mosaic virus in Wheat
Authors: Tatineni Satyanarayana , Alexander Jeff , Gupta Adarsh K. , French Roy
Published: August 2018

Wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV) and Triticum mosaic virus (TriMV), distinct members in the family Potyviridae, are economically important wheat-infecting viruses in the Great Plains region. Previously, we reported that coinfection of wheat by WSMV and TriMV caused disease synergism with increased concentration of both viruses. The mechanisms of synergistic interaction between WSMV and TriMV and the effects of prior infection of wheat by either of these “synergistically interacting partner” (SIP) viruses on the establishment of local and systemic infection by the other SIP virus are not known. In this study, using fluorescent protein-tagged viruses, we found that prior infection of wheat by WSMV or TriMV negatively affected the onset and size of local foci elicited by subsequent SIP virus infection compared with those in buffer-inoculated wheat. These data revealed that prior infection of wheat by an SIP virus has no measurable advantage for another SIP virus on the initiation of infection and cell-to-cell movement. In TriMV-infected wheat, WSMV exhibited accelerated long-distance movement and increased accumulation of genomic RNAs compared with those in buffer-inoculated wheat, indicating that TriMV-encoded proteins complemented WSMV for efficient systemic infection. In contrast, TriMV displayed delayed systemic infection in WSMV-infected wheat, with fewer genomic RNA copies in early stages of infection compared with those in buffer-inoculated wheat. However, during late stages of infection, TriMV accumulation in WSMV-infected wheat increased rapidly with accelerated long-distance movement compared with those in buffer-inoculated wheat. Taken together, these data suggest that interactions between synergistically interacting WSMV and TriMV are asymmetrical; thus, successful establishment of synergistic interaction between unrelated viruses will depend on the order of infection of plants by SIP viruses.
Spine trauma: what residents need to know
Authors: Wells Daniel B. , Campion Chad , Williams Keith D.
Published: August 2018

The focus of this article is on key aspects of caring for patients with a traumatic injury to the spinal column and/or spinal cord. Many variables can make diagnosing and treating spinal injuries difficult. The multiple classification schemes and treatment options available and the controversies in the literature can make spine trauma seem daunting. Included in this short overview are several references that can serve as useful guides for orthopaedic residents when they are presented with a patient who has a spinal injury.
Advance Care Planning Education Sessions During Pulmonary Rehabilitation in Ireland
Authors: Korn Bettina , Bailey-Scanlan Maria , Ribeiro Leo Honse , Broderick Julie
Published: August 2018

Purpose:

This study aimed to investigate the practice of advance care planning (ACP) education within pulmonary rehabilitation programs (PRPs) in Ireland.

Methods:

All 27 PRPs in the Republic of Ireland were surveyed between May and September 2015, eliciting detailed quantitative and qualitative information about ACP education delivery. Data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software and content analysis.

Results:

Twenty-two PRPs (82%) took part in the survey, with 86% (n = 19) of these being delivered in a hospital setting. Forty-five percent (n = 10) included ACP education of at least 20-min duration (n = 5) or as part of another session (n = 5). ACP topics discussed differed significantly across PRP sites. Sessions were delivered by respiratory nurses, physiotherapists, physicians, or palliative care physicians. Of the 12 sites currently not providing ACP education, almost half (n = 5) indicated a willingness to include this in the near future. Respondents identified enablers and barriers to ACP education, as well as staff education and service delivery gaps.

Conclusions:

Results demonstrate an overwhelmingly positive attitude toward ACP education. There is a need for ACP-specific education for all staff members involved in PRPs. Practical guidance on how to deliver this patient education component needs to be developed.
CORRELATIONS BETWEEN CHOROIDAL STRUCTURES AND VISUAL FUNCTIONS IN EYES WITH RETINITIS PIGMENTOSA
Authors: Egawa Mariko , Mitamura Yoshinori , Niki Masanori , Sano Hiroki , Miura Gen , Chiba Akihiro , Yamamoto Shuichi , Sonoda Shozo , Sakamoto Taiji
Published: August 2018

Purpose:

To investigate the choroidal structures in the enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomographic images in eyes with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and to determine correlations between the choroidal structures and visual functions.

Methods:

The enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomographic images of 100 eyes with typical RP and 60 age-, sex-, and axial length–matched normal eyes were binarized using ImageJ. The cross-sectional luminal and stromal areas of the inner and outer subfoveal choroid of 1,500-µm width were measured. The inner choroid included the choriocapillaris and medium vessel layer, and the outer choroid included the larger vessel layer.

Results:

In the inner choroid, the luminal area and the ratio of luminal/total choroidal area (L/C ratio) were significantly smaller in RP than in controls (P = 0.010, P < 0.001, respectively), whereas the stromal area was not significantly different (P = 0.114). The inner choroidal L/C ratio was significantly correlated with the best-corrected visual acuity, mean deviation, foveal sensitivity, width of the ellipsoid zone, and central foveal thickness in RP after adjusting for the axial length, age, and sex (all P < 0.005).

Conclusion:

The significant correlations between the inner choroidal structures and the visual functions and retinal structures indicate that the choroidal structures are altered in association with the progression of RP.
Extrusion and Breakage of XEN Gel Stent Resulting in Endophthalmitis
Authors: Lapira Matthew , Cronbach Nicola , Shaikh Asifa
Published: August 2018

The mainstay of open-angle glaucoma surgery involves subconjunctival drainage of aqueous fluid. Insertion of the XEN Gel Stent leads to formation of a subconjunctival bleb to assist in the drainage of aqueous fluid and offers the advantage of ease and speed of insertion with conjunctival sparing over traditional surgical techniques. This is the first case of XEN Gel Stent–related endophthalmitis associated with extrusion and breakage of the stent, a previously undocumented complication of this relatively new surgery.
Geographic Variation in the Initiation of Commonly Used Opioids and Dosage Strength in United States Nursing Homes
Authors: Hunnicutt Jacob N. , Baek Jonggyu , Alcusky Matthew , Hume Anne L. , Liu Shao-Hsien , Ulbricht Christine M. , Tjia Jennifer , Lapane Kate L.
Published: August 2018

Objectives:

To examine and quantify geographic variation in the initiation of commonly used opioids and prescribed dosage strength among older US nursing home residents.

Methods:

We merged 2011 Minimum Data Set 3.0 to Medicare claims and facility characteristics data to conduct a cross-sectional study among long-stay nursing home residents who initiated short-acting opioids commonly used in nursing homes (oxycodone, hydrocodone, or tramadol). We examined geographic variation in specific opioids initiated and potentially inappropriate doses (≥50 mg oral morphine equivalent/d) across hospital referral regions (HRRs). Multilevel logistic models quantified the proportional change in between-HRR variation and associations between commonly initiated opioids and inappropriate doses after adjusting for resident characteristics, facility characteristics, and state.

Results:

Oxycodone (9.4%) was initiated less frequently than hydrocodone (56.2%) or tramadol (34.5%) but varied dramatically between HRRs (range, 0%–74.5%). In total, resident/facility characteristics and state of residence, respectively explained 84.1%, 58.2%, 59.1%, and 46.6% of the between-HRR variation for initiating oxycodone, hydrocodone, tramadol, and inappropriate doses. In all cases, state explained the largest proportion of between-HRR variation. Relative to hydrocodone, residents initiating oxycodone were more likely (adjusted odds ratio, 5.00; 95% confidence interval, 4.57–5.47) and those initiating tramadol were less likely (adjusted odds ratio, 0.28; 95% confidence interval, 0.25–0.31) to be prescribed potentially inappropriately high doses.

Conclusions:

We documented extensive geographic variation in the opioid and dose initiated for nursing home residents, with state explaining the largest proportion of the observed variation. Further work is needed to understand potential drivers of opioid prescribing patterns at the state level.
Hypothermia as an Outcome Predictor Tool in Pediatric Trauma
Authors: McCarty Thomas R. , Abramo Thomas J. , Maxson Robert T. , Albert Gregory , Rettiganti Mallikarjuna R. , Saylors Marie E. , Orsborn Jonathan W. , Hollingsworth Amanda I.
Published: August 2018

Objective

Hypothermia is an independent risk factor for mortality in adult trauma patients. Two small studies have shown similar results in pediatric trauma patients. Temperature is not included in any pediatric trauma assessment scores. This study sought to compare mortality and various descriptive outcomes between pediatric hypothermic and normothermic trauma patients.

Methods

Data were obtained from the National Trauma Database from 2009 to 2012. Patients meeting inclusion criteria were stratified by presence of isolated head injury, head injury with multiple trauma, and absence of head injury. These groups were then subdivided into hypothermic (temperature ≤36°C) and normothermic groups. We used propensity score matching to 1:1 match hypothermic and normothermic patients. Mortality, neurosurgical interventions, endotracheal intubation, blood transfusion, length of stay, laparotomy, thoracotomy, conversion of cardiac rhythm, and time receiving mechanical ventilation were evaluated.

Results

Data from 3,011,482 patients were obtained. There were 414,562 patients who met the inclusion criteria. In all patients meeting inclusion criteria, hypothermia was a significant risk factor in all outcomes measured. Following stratification and 1:1 matching, in all groups, hypothermia was associated with increased mortality (P< 0.0001), increased rate of endotracheal intubation (P< 0.0002), increased need for blood transfusion (P< 0.0025), and conversion of cardiac rhythm (P< 0.0027).

Conclusion

Hypothermia has been shown to be a significant prognostic indicator in the pediatric trauma patient with further potential application. Future studies are indicated to evaluate the incorporation of hypothermia into the Pediatric Trauma Score not only to help predict injury severity and mortality but also to improve appropriate and expeditious patient transfer to pediatric trauma centers and potentially facilitate earlier intervention.