bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to choose the therapeutic goals to improve tissue perfusion in septic shock
Authors: Assuncao Murillo Santucci Cesar de , Corrêa Thiago Domingos , Bravim Bruno de Arruda , Silva Eliézer
Published: August 2015

The early recognition and treatment of severe sepsis and septic shock is the key to a successful outcome. The longer the delay in starting treatment, the worse the prognosis due to persistent tissue hypoperfusion and consequent development and worsening of organ dysfunction. One of the main mechanisms responsible for the development of cellular dysfunction is tissue hypoxia. The adjustments necessary for adequate tissue blood flow and therefore of oxygen supply to metabolic demand according to the assessment of the cardiac index and oxygen extraction rate should be performed during resuscitation period, especially in high complexity patients. New technologies, easily handled at the bedside, and new studies that directly assess the impact of macro-hemodynamic parameter optimization on microcirculation and in the clinical outcome of septic patients, are needed.
Fluid therapy for septic shock resuscitation: which fluid should be used?
Authors: Corrêa Thiago Domingos , Rocha Leonardo Lima , Pessoa Camila Menezes Souza , Silva Eliézer , Assuncao Murillo Santucci Cesar de
Published: August 2015

Early resuscitation of septic shock patients reduces the sepsis-related morbidity and mortality. The main goals of septic shock resuscitation include volemic expansion, maintenance of adequate tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery, guided by central venous pressure, mean arterial pressure, mixed or central venous oxygen saturation and arterial lactate levels. An aggressive fluid resuscitation, possibly in association with vasopressors, inotropes and red blood cell concentrate transfusion may be necessary to achieve those hemodynamic goals. Nonetheless, even though fluid administration is one of the most common interventions offered to critically ill patients, the most appropriate type of fluid to be used remains controversial. According to recently published clinical trials, crystalloid solutions seem to be the most appropriate type of fluids for initial resuscitation of septic shock patients. Balanced crystalloids have theoretical advantages over the classic solutions, but there is not enough evidence to indicate it as first-line treatment. Additionally, when large amounts of fluids are necessary to restore the hemodynamic stability, albumin solutions may be a safe and effective alternative. Hydroxyethyl starches solutions must be avoided in septic patients due to the increased risk of acute renal failure, increased need for renal replacement therapy and increased mortality. Our objective was to present a narrative review of the literature regarding the major types of fluids and their main drawbacks in the initial resuscitation of the septic shock patients.
Maize Landraces are Less Affected byStriga hermonthicaRelative to Hybrids in Western Kenya
Authors: Midega Charles A. O. , Pickett John , Hooper Antony , Pittchar Jimmy , Khan Zeyaur R.
Published: August 2015

Production of maize in western Kenya is severely constrained by the parasitic weed striga. Although productivity of maize can be improved through adoption of improved varieties, adoption of such varieties remains low in the region, as the majority of smallholder farmers still grow unimproved open-pollinated varieties (landraces). The performance of two improved hybrid varieties was evaluated against six landraces in striga-infested soils in western Kenya. The varieties were planted in plots under natural striga infestation and were supplemented with pot experiments under artificial infestation. Striga emergence was lower in landraces than in the hybrid varieties in both field and pot experiments. Similarly, height of maize plants at harvest and grain yields were higher in the landraces than in the hybrids. After three continuous cropping seasons, in all treatments, striga seedbank density increased two to seven times. Seedbank increase was higher with hybrids and two of the landraces, ‘Rachar' and ‘Endere'. These results provide an insight into the potential role landraces could play in efforts toward an integrated management approach for striga in smallholder cropping systems. They also highlight the need to develop hybrid maize lines with local adaptation to biotic constraints, specifically striga.
Technologies enabling advanced urban timber construction
Authors: Smith Ian , Frangi Andrea
Published: August 2015

This paper addresses rebirth of timber as a material suitable for urban construction. It lost currency during the late nineteenth and throughout the twentieth century, with the main reasons being concern about fire safety and the emergence of structural steel as a material well suited to expression of architectural modernism. Now the wheel of fortune is turning again, but in timber’s favour, with driving forces being continued population growth and urbanisation, and the need to create sustainable liveable cities. Also, technical knowhow now exists to address fire performance of timber buildings and timber materials have evolved to a level where some claim they are ‘better than steel’, or reinforced concrete. Research and development of fire engineering as a rigorous science are enabling implementation of performance-based design methods that literally revolutionise the design space for timber buildings. Tall timber buildings dot many recent city landscapes, but even so the possibilities largely await exploitation.
Wearable simulations for ill-health conditions in construction
Authors: Gibb Alistair , Cook Sharon , Nyateka Netsai , Bust Phil , Jones Wendy , Finneran Aoife
Published: August 2015

Occupational ill health and wellbeing is a significant challenge for workers in the civil engineering and construction sectors. The symptoms of many ill-health conditions become more severe over time and minor aches and pains in a young worker can develop into serious problems the older they get. Health and safety training has increased in recent years and site inductions are now ubiquitous. However, formal training methods seem to have little effect. Evidence-based, wearable simulations for common construction ill-health conditions have been developed from over 20 years of university-based research. The simulations provide a learning experience for dermatitis, hand–arm vibration syndrome, musculoskeletal disorders, noise-induced hearing loss and respiratory disorders and are being trialled with young apprentices aiming to change their attitudes and behaviours.
Beyond walking and cycling: scoping small-wheel modes
Authors: Lorimer Stephen W. , Marshall Stephen
Published: August 2015

Active travel beyond walking and cycling – by small-wheel modes such as inline skating, skateboarding and push scooting, among others – needs more understanding in terms of the design, maintenance and management issues it may present in the future. These modes – especially their use for travel rather than leisure pursuits – are rarely quantified outside of accident statistics and the focus of qualitative study in the governance of public space conflict or the sociology of childhood activities. This paper reports on a scoping study exploring the potential for small-wheel modes among other means of ‘human locomotion’. The study first recruited local transport officers and people using these modes, as well as academic experts. The study found that there are differences between the views of planning officers and users of these modes that need to be investigated further to arrive at solid conclusions and advice for the design, maintenance and management issues needed both now and in a future that allows more variety and choice in human locomotion for active travel. The use of user-generated digital data for data capture, analysis and mapping was also explored.
Behaviour of lignosulfonate-treated soil under cyclic loading
Authors: Chen Qingsheng , Indraratna Buddhima , Rujikiatkamjorn Cholachat
Published: August 2015

In this paper, the effectiveness of an environmentally-friendly stabilising agent for soil, lignosulfonate (LS), is examined through a series of cyclic triaxial tests. The deformation characteristics of the contents of LS-treated sandy silt when subjected to undrained cyclic triaxial loading are investigated at different confining pressures and cyclic stress levels. Test results indicate that under a given confining pressure and cyclic deviator stress, the rate of increase in axial strain is controlled by the addition of LS, which results in a smaller value of plastic axial strain (εa,p). For all the untreated and LS-treated specimens, the rate of increase in εa,pincreases with the increasing cyclic stress ratio (CSR). A critical value of CSR exists for a given LS content (i.e. CSRCR), below which the specimens could remain stable irrespective of the number of load cycles. The longevity of treated specimens is improved significantly, especially for the specimens with LS = 2% by weight. As the treated specimens are subjected to a high level of cyclic stress, the excess pore pressure shows a decreasing trend with the increasing number of cycles, but then increases again rapidly when the failure becomes imminent. Compared with the untreated soil, the resilient modulus increases significantly as a result of LS treatment, especially for LS = 2%. When the LS > 2%, there is no additional advantage, implying that 2% LS treatment is an optimum for this soil.
Editorial V.13, N1, 2015
Authors: Revista de Ensino de Bioquímica REB
Published: August 2015

Editorial 2015 - 1Este número é dedicado ao professor Leopoldo de Meis, titular do Instituto de Bioquímica Médica (IBqM) da Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), um dos grandes pesquisadores em Bioquímica que se dedicou, entre suas atividades, para o ensino de Bioquímica e divulgação da Ciência. Para homenageá-lo, teremos um breve relato do professor Wagner Seixas da Silva (IBqM – UFRJ).Destacamos que o professor Wagner teve sua iniciação na acadêmia, ainda no ensino médio, por meio de um programa coordenado pelo professor Leopoldo. Tal experiência o motivou ao ingresso na UFRJ e desde então seguiu os passos do grande mestre Leopoldo, dando continuidade aos seus projetos na área educacional.A partir desde número iniciamos, dentro da seção editorial, a divulgação de materiais (livros, softwares, vídeos, jogos entre outros) e portais educacionais na área de escopo da revista, visando ampliar a divulgação destes para a comunidade.Buscando ampliar a divulgação da revista e sua indexação, neste semestre a REB foi inserida em duas bases internacionais: Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) e Open Academic Journal Index (OAJI).Este ano, ocorrerá no Brasil a reunião da International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (IUBMB), com a reunião anual da SBBq. O evento ocorrerá em Foz do Iguaçu, de 24 a 28 de agosto de 2015 (http://www.sbbq.org.br/iubmb2015). Destacamos que estão previstas atividades na área de educação, incluindo simpósios e apresentação de trabalhos por meio de painéis. Atenciosamente Bayardo B. Torres - USPEduardo Galembeck - UnicampGabriel Gerber Hornink - Unifal-MGVera Maria T. Trindade - UFRGS
KWS-1: Small-angle scattering diffractometer
Authors: Frielinghaus Henrich , Feoktystov Artem , Berts Ida , Mangiapia Gaetano
Published: August 2015

The KWS-1, which is operated by JCNS, Forschungszentrum Jülich, is a small-angle neutron scattering diffractometer dedicated to high resolution measurements.
KWS-3: Very small angle scattering diffractometer with focusing mirror
Authors: Pipich Vitaliy , Fu Zhendong
Published: August 2015

KWS-3, which is operated by JCNS, Forschungszentrum Jülich, is a very small angle neutron scattering (VSANS) instrument running on the focussing mirror principle. KWS-3 is designed to bridge the gap between Bonse-Hart and pinhole cameras. Owing to its extended Q range, optimized flux, and good wavelength resolution, KWS-3 has shown good performance and has become scientifically productive to the user community.
J-NSE: Neutron spin echo spectrometer
Authors: Holderer Olaf , Ivanova Oxana
Published: August 2015

Neutron Spin-Echo (NSE) spectroscopy is well known as the only neutron scattering technique that achieves energy resolution of several neV. By using the spin precession of polarized neutrons in magnetic field one can measure tiny velocity changes of the individual neutron during the scattering process. Contrary to other inelastic neutron scattering techniques, NSE measures the intermediate scattering function S(Q,t) in reciprocal space and time directly. The Neutron Spin-Echo spectrometer J-NSE, operated by JCNS, Forschungszentrum Jülich at the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Zentrum (MLZ) in Garching, covers a time range (2 ps to 200 ns) on length scales accessible by small angle scattering technique. Along with conventional NSE spectroscopy that allows bulk measurements in transmission mode, J-NSE offers a new possibility - gracing incidence spin echo spectroscopy (GINSENS), developed to be used as "push-button" option in order to resolve the depth dependent near surface dynamics.
PUMA: Thermal three axes spectrometer
Authors: Sobolev Oleg , Park Jitae T.
Published: August 2015

Three axes spectrometers allow the direct measurement of the scattering function S(Q, ω) in single crystals at well defined points of the reciprocal lattice vector Q and frequency ω and thus represent the most general instrument type. PUMA, which is jointly operated by the Institute of Physical Chemistry, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen and the Technische Universität München, is characterised by a very high neutron flux as a result of the efficient use of focussing techniques.
RESEDA: Resonance spin echo spectrometer
Authors: Franz Christian , Schröder Thorsten
Published: August 2015

RESEDA (resonance spin echo for diverse applications), a high-resolution resonance spin-echo spectrometer, operated by the Technische Universität München, is installed at the cold neutron guide NL5-S in the Neutron Guide Hall West. The instrument gives access to a large time and scattering vector range for quasi-elastic measurements.
NEPOMUC: Neutron induced positron source Munich
Authors: Hugenschmidt Christoph , Piochacz Christian
Published: August 2015

NEPOMUC, operated by the Technische Universität München and the Universität der Bundeswehr München, provides a high-intensity low-energy positron beam for applications in solid state and surface physics as well as for fundamental research in nuclear and atomic physics. The intensity amounts to > 109 moderated positrons per second at a beam energy of E = 1 keV.
Elaboração e caracterização de doce de coco adicionado de diferentes concentrações de rapadura
Authors: Azerêdo Luan Pedro Melo , Nascimento Heloisa Maria Almeida Do , Moreira Ricardo Targino , Pereira Emmanuel Moreira
Published: August 2015

A rapadura é o produto sólido obtido da concentração do caldo da cana-de-açúcar, muito procurada pelos consumidores, sendo sua utilização na elaboração de doces uma boa alternativa econômica para seu aproveitamento. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a qualidade microbiológica e sensorial de três formulações de doce de coco. Os resultados mostram que a formulação mais aceita foi obtida a partir da concentração média de rapadura, contribuindo para o desenvolvimento do doce a base de rapadura por meio de procedimentos simples e de fácil aplicação pelos produtores.

Preparation and characterization of doce de coco added to different concentrations of sugar cane products

Abstract: The brown sugar is the solid product obtained by concentration of the juice of cane sugar, very popular with consumers, and is used to manufacture candy good economic alternatives for their utilization. This study aimed to evaluate the microbiological and sensory quality of three sweet coconut formulations. The results show that the most accepted formulation was obtained from the average concentration of brown sugar, contributing to the development of the sweet brown sugar base through simple procedures and easy to apply by producers.
Effects of poly aluminum chloride dosing positions on the performance of a pilot scale anoxic/oxic-membrane bioreactor (A/O-MBR)
Authors: Guo Shaodong , Qu Fangshu , Ding An , Bai Langming , Li Guibai , Ngo Huu Hao , Guo Wenshan , Liang Heng
Published: August 2015

The effects of poly aluminum chloride (PACl) dosing positions on the performance of a pilot scale anoxic/oxic membrane bioreactor were investigated. PACl dosage was optimized at 19.5 mg Al2O3/L by jar test. Nutrients removal efficiencies and sludge properties were systematically investigated during periods with no PACl dosing (phase I), with PACl dosing in oxic tank (phase II) and then in anoxic tank (phase III). The results showed that total phosphorus removal efficiency increased from 18 to 88% in phase II and 85% in phase III with less than 0.5 mg P/L in effluent. Ammonia nitrogen removal efficiencies reached 99% in all phases and chemical oxygen demand removal efficiencies reached 92%, 91% and 90% in the three phases, respectively. Total nitrogen removal efficiency decreased from 59% in phase I to 49% in phases II and III. Dosing PACl in the oxic tank resulted in smaller sludge particle size, higher zeta potential, better sludge settleability and lower membrane fouling rate in comparison with dosing PACl in the anoxic tank.
Catalytic ozonation of bisphenol A in aqueous solution using Mn-Ce/HZSM-5 as catalyst
Authors: Liu Yanfang , Zhao Junna , Li Zaixing , Li Guixia , Li Wei , Gao Xiang
Published: August 2015

Mixed manganese and cerium oxide supported on HZSM-5 were synthesized and used as heterogeneous catalysts for ozonation of bisphenol A (BPA) in aqueous solution. The prepared catalysts of Mn-Ce/HZSM-5 were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy. The results indicated that Mn-Ce/HZSM-5 exhibits extraordinary catalytic activity for the degradation of BPA. Removal of 89.3% of BPA and 90.4% of total organic carbon (TOC) was achieved in 30 min, compared to non-catalytic ozonation, where only 50.5% BPA and 28.1% TOC removal were reached under the same conditions. Adsorption of BPA on HZSM-5 support and Mn-Ce/HZSM-5 catalysts was negligible. The strong inhibition of BPA removal by tert-butyl alcohol indicated that the attack of hydroxyl radicals was responsible for the improvement of catalytic ozonation. It was observed that at neutral pH, which is near the point of zero charge of the catalyst, the catalytic activity reached its maximum. Increasing the amount of Mn-Ce/HZSM-5 catalyst until it exceeded 3 g/L did not show a strong effect on BPA removal. The catalysts showed high stability and reusability.
Sorption of microconstituents onto primary sludge
Authors: Ying Zhu , Droste R. L.
Published: August 2015

The presence of microconstituents (MCs) in the environment has become an emerging concern to scientists and engineers. Sorption is one of the important removal mechanisms for MCs in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) since there is significant sludge production. The purpose of this study is to explore sorption kinetics and isotherms of MCs onto primary sludge. Three MCs, bisphenol-A (BPA), 17-α-ethinylestradiol (EE2) and triclosan (TCS), were chosen for this study. They are hydrophobic and have low vapor pressure, which makes sorption a potential removal mechanism. Both sorption kinetics and isotherm experiments were conducted using primary sludge collected from a local municipal WWTP. The time to equilibrium was around 7 h for all chosen MCs. A pseudo second-order rate model was better at describing the sorption rate than a pseudo first-order rate model. Linear sorption isotherm models were found to fit the experimental data, and the solid–liquid partitioning coefficients for BPA, EE2 and TCS were 81, 728 and 6,407 L/kg.
Responsible innovation in port development: the Rotterdam Maasvlakte 2 and the Dalian Dayao Bay extension projects
Authors: Ravesteijn Wim , Liu Yi , Yan Ping
Published: August 2015

The paper outlines and specifies ‘responsible port innovation’, introducing the development of a methodological and procedural step-by-step plan for the implementation and evaluation of (responsible) innovations. Subsequently, it uses this as a guideline for the analysis and evaluation of two case-studies. The construction of the Rotterdam Maasvlakte 2 Port meets most of the formulated requirements, though making values more explicit and treating it as a process right from the start could have benefitted the project. The Dalian Dayao Port could improve its decision-making procedures in several respects, including the introduction of new methods to handle value tensions. Both projects show that public support is crucial in responsible port innovation and that it should be not only a multi-faceted but also a multi-level strategy.
Bioaugmentation treatment of PV wafer manufacturing wastewater by microbial culture
Authors: Zhu Xiaohua , Chen Maoxia , He Xin , Xiao Zili , Zhou Houzhen , Tan Zhouliang
Published: August 2015

The wastewater of silicon photovoltaic (PV) battery manufacturing contained polyethylene glycol (PEG) and detergents, which possessed the characteristics of high content of organics and low bioavailability, and then resulted in high treatment costs. To address the difficulties of existing treatment facilities in stably meeting discharge standards, eight tons of microbial culture (consisting of Bacillus sp. and Rhodococcus sp.) were added into the aerobic treatment unit. Subsequently, the effectiveness of the microbial culture in small-scale biological wastewater treatment was evaluated, and the operating conditions for engineering applications were optimized. The application study showed that the average chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency reached 95.0% when the pH value was 7, the gas–water ratio was 28:1, the reflux ratio was 50%, which indicated an increase of 51.2% contrasting with the situation without bioaugmentation. The volume load of the treatment facilities after augmentation increased by 127.9% and could tolerate the COD shock load reached 2,340 mg · L−1. At last, the effluence met the class I standard of the Integrated Wastewater Discharge Standard (GB8978–1996).
Effects of mixed liquor pH on membrane fouling and micro-pollutant removals in membrane bioreactors for municipal landfill leachate treatment
Authors: Sanguanpak Samunya , Chiemchaisri Chart , Chiemchaisri Wilai , Yamamoto Kazuo
Published: August 2015

This research investigated the membrane fouling and micro-pollutant removals in treatment of municipal landfill leachate at various pH levels (i.e. 5.5, 6.5, 7.5, and 8.5) using membrane bioreactors. The findings revealed that membrane fouling was influenced by the pH level of mixed liquor, with pH 5.5 exhibiting the most severe membrane fouling. At pH 5.5, proteins and carbohydrates were predominant in the membrane foulants, while at pH 8.5 humic-like and inorganic substances constituted the largest proportion of the foulants on the membrane surface. The removal efficiencies of micro-pollutants (bisphenol-A; 2,6-di-tert-butylphenol and 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylbutylphenol) were nevertheless insignificantly influenced by the pH levels of mixed liquor. In addition, the removal rates of the compounds at pH 5.5 were slightly lower vis-à-vis at the higher pH levels. The micro-pollutant retention on the fouled membranes was also significant and highest under the mixed liquor pH of 8.5. Furthermore, the experiments demonstrated that the varying degrees of rejection by the fouled membranes could be attributed to the alteration of foulant characteristics as a result of the pH variations.
A review: factors affecting excess sludge anaerobic digestion for volatile fatty acids production
Authors: Zhang Dong , Li Xiaoshuai , Jia Shuting , Dai Lingling , Zhao Jianfu , Chen Yinguang , Dai Xiaohu
Published: August 2015

This paper presents a review of methods that improve the production of volatile fatty acids (VFA) from excess sludge during the anaerobic digestion process. These methods are mainly divided into two approaches. The first approach is located in the pre-treatment methods, which change the properties of the substrates, such as thermal pre-treatment, alkaline pre-treatment, microwave pre-treatment and ultrasonic pre-treatment. The other approach is found in the fermentation process control methods, which influence the environment of anaerobic digestion for the production of VFA, such as pH, temperature, mixing, additives and solids retention time control. In the text recent research studies of each method are listed and analyzed in detail. Comparably, microwave and ultrasonic pre-treatment methods are considered emerging and promising technologies due to their efficiency and environmentally friendly characteristics. However, the microwave pre-treatment has high electricity demand, which might make the process economically unfeasible. In order to calculate optimal operation, further studies still need to be done.
Methods and Guidelines for Venous Thromboembolism Prevention in Polytrauma Patients with Pelvic and Acetabular Fractures
Authors: Chana-Rodríguez Francisco , Mañanes Rubén Pérez , Rojo-Manaute José , Haro José Antonio Calvo , Vaquero-Martín Javier
Published: August 2015

Sequential compression devices and chemical prophylaxis are the standard venous thromboembolism (VTE) prevention for trauma patients with acetabular and pelvic fractures. Current chemical pharmacological contemplates the use of heparins or fondaparinux. Other anticoagulants include coumarins and aspirin, however these oral agents can be challenging to administer and may need monitoring. When contraindications to anticoagulation in high-risk patients are present, prophylactic inferior vena cava filters can be an option to prevent pulmonary emboli. Unfortunately strong evidence about the most effective method, and the timing of their commencement, in patients with pelvic and acetabular fractures remains controversial.
Perceived Feeling of Security: A Candidate for Assessing Remission in Borderline Patients?
Authors: Norlander Torsten , Ernestad Ellinor , Moradiani Ziba , Nordén Tommy
Published: August 2015

The aim of the study was for the first time to examine whether adults diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder feel that their sense of security improved through treatment with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy conducted one or two years earlier. In the current study perceived security was defined as a feeling of being free of worrisome or threatening phenomena. Twenty-three patients (2 men and 21 women) aged 18 to 57 years, were recruited from five teams in Southwest Sweden. A questionnaire was constructed where responses were given on visual analogue scales. There were three questions about security, namely perceived security when completing the questionnaire as well as estimated perceived security before and after treatment. The three questions were embedded among 19 other questions which dealt with various aspects of quality of life. Results indicated three main results: (a) the patients reported feeling more secure following the treatment, (b) mental health of the patients and their health in a broader view appeared to be decisive for the perception of security and (c) the perception of greater security remained one or two years following treatment. The conclusion was that perceived feeling of security might be able to add a new dimension to currently used ways to assess the effects of the treatment of borderline patients and it might also be considered to be included in a future concept of borderline remission.
Influence of fixed orthodontic treatment on the menstrual cycle of adult females: A prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Duan Peipei , Qu Wenwen , Zou Shujuan , Chen Yangxi , Lan Hui , Farella Mauro , Mei Li
Published: August 2015

Objective: 

To investigate the influence of fixed orthodontic treatment on the menstrual cycle, including menstrual cycle length (MCL) and duration of menstrual bleeding (DMB), in adult female patients.

Materials and Methods: 

This was a prospective longitudinal study conducted in Chengdu, China. A total of 164 adult women with normal menstrual cycles were recruited in the study, with 79 patients undergoing orthodontic treatment and 85 serving as controls. Data of MCL, DMB, and accompanying symptoms were collected over six consecutive menstrual cycles in each participant. Student’s t test, Chi-square test, Moses extreme reaction test, and repeated measures analysis of variance were used for statistical analysis.

Results: 

The MCL of the first menstrual cycle (T1) was significantly elongated by 2.1 ± 0.5 days compared with baseline (P  =  .003, 95% CI [−3.7, −0.5]). Variability of MCL of the orthodontic group at T1 was also significantly greater (range, 15–46 days) than that of the control group (range, 24–36 days) (P < .05). No significant difference in MCL was found in the subsequent five menstrual cycles (T2–T6) compared with baseline, and no significant differences in DMB or other accompanying symptoms were observed throughout the study.

Conclusion: 

Fixed orthodontic treatment may influence the MCL of adult females in the first month after bonding, but showed no effect on DMB or subsequent MCL through the follow-ups.
The Primary Glucose-Lowering Effect of Metformin Resides in the Gut, Not the Circulation: Results From Short-term Pharmacokinetic and 12-Week Dose-Ranging Studies
Authors: Buse John B. , DeFronzo Ralph A. , Rosenstock Julio , Kim Terri , Burns Colleen , Skare Sharon , Baron Alain , Fineman Mark
Published: August 2015

OBJECTIVE

Delayed-release metformin (Met DR) is formulated to deliver the drug to the lower bowel to leverage the gut-based mechanisms of metformin action with lower plasma exposure. Met DR was assessed in two studies. Study 1 compared the bioavailability of single daily doses of Met DR to currently available immediate-release metformin (Met IR) and extended-release metformin (Met XR) in otherwise healthy volunteers. Study 2 assessed glycemic control in subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) over 12 weeks.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Study 1 was a phase 1, randomized, four-period crossover study in 20 subjects. Study 2 was a 12-week, phase 2, multicenter, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging study in 240 subjects with T2DM randomized to receive Met DR 600, 800, or 1,000 mg administered once daily; blinded placebo; or unblinded Met XR 1,000 or 2,000 mg (reference).

RESULTS

The bioavailability of 1,000 mg Met DR b.i.d. was ∼50% that of Met IR and Met XR (study 1). In study 2, 600, 800, and 1,000 mg Met DR q.d. produced statistically significant, clinically relevant, and sustained reductions in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels over 12 weeks compared with placebo, with an ∼40% increase in potency compared with Met XR. The placebo-subtracted changes from baseline in HbA1c level at 12 weeks were consistent with changes in FPG levels. All treatments were generally well tolerated, and adverse events were consistent with Glucophage/Glucophage XR prescribing information.

CONCLUSIONS

Dissociation of the glycemic effect from plasma exposure with gut-restricted Met DR provides strong evidence for a predominantly lower bowel-mediated mechanism of metformin action.
A Post Publication Review of “IS Project Risks as Emergent Phenomena: Towards a Model of Risk Escalation and its Management”
Authors: Cuellar Michael , Parinyavuttichai Nipon , Lin Angela Y
Published: August 2015

A short post publication review of a recent AJIS paper.
Recent glacier and glacial lake changes and their interactions in the Bugyai Kangri, southeast Tibet
Authors: Liu Qiao , Guo Wanqin , Nie Yong , Liu Shiyin , Xu Junli
Published: August 2015

Glaciers in the Bugyai Kangri are located in a transition zone from southeast Tibet, where monsoonal temperate glaciers dominate, to inner Tibet, where continental glaciers dominate. Here we analyze glacier and glacial lake changes in this region using multi-year inventories based on Landsat images from 1981–2013. Results show that the total area of 141 glaciers in the region decreased by 30.44 ±0.89 km2from 198.35 ±9.54 km2(1980s) to 167.93 ±4.52 km2(2010s). The annual area shrinkage rate (–0.48% a–1) is lower than that reported for southeastern Tibet but higher than that of inner Tibet. Both the number and total area of glacial lakes increased between 1981 and 2013. Among all lakes, proglacial lakes contribute most (~81 %) to the expansion. The total area of ten proglacial lakes increased by 150.3 ± 13.17% and of these ten lakes the four that expanded most sharply showed increased calving at their upper margins, resulting in more rapid retreat of lake-terminating glaciers than land-terminating glaciers. Owing to rapid calving, several lakes may undergo further growth in the near future, increasing the potential risk of glacial lake outburst floods.
EXPERIMENTAL AND ANALYTICAL INVESTIGATION OF THERMAL PARAMETERS DEVELOPED IN HIGH CARBON STEEL JOINTS FORMED BY GTA WELDING
Authors: Dutta J. , Narendranath S.
Published: August 2015

This investigation reveals an elaborate analysis of variation of thermal properties of high carbon steelplate butt joints formed by DC Gas Tungsten Arc (GTA) welding. Experiment has conducted to predict the twodimensional temperature cycle developed. To find out the heat flux distribution, Gaussian Heat source model hasbeen implemented. Carslaw-Jaegers mathematical model has been incorporated to estimate the variation ofthermal conductivity. To portray the change in specific heat at different locations from the fusion boundary atexperimental temperatures, Thin plate model has been utilized. Heat loss due to convection, radiation andevaporation have been studied. To estimate total heat loss from weld joint at different locations a method has beenproposed and Vinokurov s empirical correlation has been used for validation. At very close region (36mm fromfusion boundary) to heat affected zone all thermal properties have shown significant variation based onexperimental results. From the analysis of heat loss an optimum temperature has been observed and it is helpful todefine the range of convection and radiation heat loss phenomena.
EFFECT OF ASYMMETRIC ROLLING ON FORMABILITY OF PURE ALUMINIUM
Authors: Dutta Swagata , Kaiser M. S.
Published: August 2015

Uniaxial tensile test was carried out at different loading direction (0o, 90o and 45o) on rolled aluminiumsheets. The anisotropic coefficient was analyzed to reveal formability characteristics. The shear strain that wasimposed during the ASR was extensive and the shear marks was inclined more or less linearly without beingzigzag or spiral lines. The ASRC improved the normal anisotropy coefficient compared to CR specimens. Thehighest normal anisotropy and the lowest planar anisotropy were observed by ASRC samples. Therefore, it wasfound that, asymmetric rolling especially ASRC can be used to improve the formability of aluminium thick sheets.
EFFECT OF PROCESS PARAMETERS FOR OPTIMUM MATERIAL REMOVAL RATE OF CYLINDRICAL GRINDING OF AISI 1045 STEEL
Authors: Singh Taranveer , Goyal Khushdeep , Kumar Parlad
Published: August 2015

In this experimental work, the effect of various input parameters viz. work speed, wheel speed,abrasive material, depth of cut, concentration of cutting fluid and number of passes has been studied on thematerial removal rate of cylindrical grinded AISI. For experimentation, three levels of each variable have beenselected except wheel speed. Two levels of wheel speed have been taken. Heat treated AISI 1045 has beenconsidered as work piece material. The result reveals that number of passes followed by the type of abrasivematerial is the most significant to influence material removal rate. The optimum set of input parameters formaximizing the material removal rate has also been found.
ANALYSIS OF CONCENTRATED SOLAR POWER TECHNOLOGIES' FEASIBILITY, SELECTION AND PROMOTIONAL STRATEGY FOR BANGLADESH
Authors: Barua Amit , Chakraborti Sanjib , Paul Dabajit , Das Prasanjit
Published: August 2015

Bangladesh gets solar radiation of average 4-6.2KWh/m2/per day that shows a great opportunity for alltypes of solar power generation technologies ranging from small to large scale. However, solar power technologyis confined in only Photovoltaic (PV) technology though it deserves ideal condition for concentrated solar power(CSP) technologies of power generation. Accounting the limited source and depletion of fossil fuel as well asforeign currency that expense for imported oil, adaptation of CSP technology can brings a solution of futuresustainable and cheap source of power. This research has analyzed existing developed CSP technologies andtheir comparative characteristic. A study has been conducted to find out feasibility of CSP technologyimplementation and selection of suitable CSP plant for Bangladesh. The findings of this study can be helpful toformulate policies support tools to take into account the future solar energy and sustainable utilization, promotionand development for CSP technologies.
EFFECT OF PROCESS PARAMETERS ON HARDNESS, DEPTH OF HEAT AFFECTED ZONE AND MICRO STRUCTURE OF WELDMENT IN MIG WELDING
Authors: Saha Subrata , Shahjahan Naureen Binte , Ahmed Naseem
Published: August 2015

Electrode wire diameter, welding current, electrode wire feed rate, arc length are influential processparameters for hardness, depth of heat affected zone and microstructure of weldment in case of MIG weldingprocess. In this work, the effect of these process parameters on weldment characteristics had been studied.Experiments were conducted using bead-on surface of medium carbon steel plate in a semi-automatic MIGwelding machine. Hardness, depth of heat affected zone and microstructure of weldment were examined. Anartificial neural network (ANN) based modeling of the experiments had been successfully done to realize thepatterns of results obtained from the experiments. It had been observed that the microstructures obtained inthese weldments were distinctly different from that of the base metal. Microstructures, hardness and depth ofheat affected zone of weldment depends on the process parameters. ANN model shows good agreement with theexperimental results in case of hardness and depth of heat affected zone of weldment.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN INVENTORY MANAGEMENT AND INDUSTRIES BECOMING SICK, ESPECIALLY IN THIRD WORLD COUNTRIES
Authors: Hoque A. K. M. Solayman , Biswas S.K. , Wazed M. A.
Published: August 2015

This article finds the relationship of Inventory management with industries becoming sick. Inventory planning and control are of special importance to sales, production, and finance of any firm. Proper inventory management gives an idea of relationship between raw material, work-in-process and finished goods or consumption of finished goods. From the collected data it is clear that many local plants have either no fixed norm(s) or do not practice proper way of controlling the inventory. This might be the case in many third world countries. In this article it has been discussed how to overcome sickness of industries by controlling and standardizing inventory planning and control. Also how productivity and firms financial conditions are affected by proper inventory management has also been discussed in this article.
COMBINED EFFECTS OF VISCOUS DISSIPATION AND HEAT GENERATION ON NATURAL CONVECTION FLOW ALONG A VERTICAL WAVY SURFACE
Authors: Kabir K. H. , Alim M. A. , Andallah L. S. , Mahjabin Saika
Published: August 2015

In this paper, the effects of viscous dissipation on natural convection flow along a uniformly heated vertical wavy surface with heat generation have been investigated. The governing boundary layer equations are first transformed into a non-dimensional form using suitable set of dimensionless variables. The resulting nonlinear systems of partial differential equations are mapped into the domain of a vertical flat plate and then solved numerically employing the Keller-box method. The numerical results of the surface shear stress in terms of skin friction coefficient and the rate of heat transfer in terms of local Nusselt number, the velocity as well as the temperature profiles are shown graphically and in tabular form for different values of physical parameters namely, viscous dissipation parameter Vd, heat generation parameter Q and Prandtl number Pr.
PRECIPITATION AND SOFTENING BEHAVIOUR OF CAST, COLD ROLLED AND HOT ROLLING PRIOR TO COLD ROLLED AL-6MG ALLOY ANNEALED AT HIGH TEMPERATURE
Authors: Kaiser M. S.
Published: August 2015

The effect of cast, cold rolling and hot rolling prior to cold rolling reduction on the hardness, electrical conductivity and grain size of annealed Al-6Mg alloys was studied. It was found that the hot rolling prior to cold rolling attend the higher strength due to precipitation of b-phase  during hot rolling which hinder the dislocation movement. At higher temperature of annealing electrical resistivity decreses due to particle coarcening  but in case of cast alloy it increases due to precipitation of b-phase. It is seen from the microstructure that the cold worked structures are comprised of elongated grains. It is also observed that the cold rolled alloy attained almost fully re-crystallized state after annealing  at 400oC for 60 minutes.
DEVELOPING GROUP LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNICATION SKILLS FOR MONITORING EVM IN PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Authors: Farok G.M.G , Garcia Jose A.
Published: August 2015

Earned Value Management (EVM) is used to track the progress and status of a project with forecasting future performance. Leaders use the Evaluation, Verification and Monitoring with Earned Value Management (EVM) technique to evaluate their project progress and performance as an early warning tool. Monitoring EVM involves determining whether the project is on, ahead of, or behind schedule and on, under or over budget. Usually an organization has many people with many multi-dimensional strategic ideas. All of these people are focused on ultimate end points, they work on the same target, they play on the same field, and they gain their knowledge about the same markets and share their ideas with personal confident. They rely on EVM which integrates cost, schedule and scope to capture project progress assessment and project completion update.
Social gravities and artistic training paths: the artistic vocation viewed through the prism of the concept of temporal form of causality
Authors: Pita Castro Juan Carlos
Published: August 2015

This contribution is based on a previous research dedicated to the life paths of art school graduates whose empirical data consisted of 13 autobiographical interviews. It cuts these paths into biographical periods and attempts to throw light on the relationships they have between each other. This contribution starts from an observation: in spite of candidates being admitted to an art school and obtaining the same degree, their artistic vocations take several different directions and are highly polarized in terms of social origins. This article brings out this dichotomy through the concept of temporal form of causality. It highlights biographical logics that determine the achievement of the artistic project by articulating archaeological and procedural analysis of the biographies, and it points out a certain number of social gravities that find their origin in the social space and that become significant over the life paths.
Local Convergence of an Optimal Eighth Order Method under Weak Conditions
Authors: Argyros Ioannis , Behl Ramandeep , Motsa S.S.
Published: August 2015

We study the local convergence of an eighth order Newton-like method to approximate a locally-unique solution of a nonlinear equation. Earlier studies, such as Chen et al. (2015) show convergence under hypotheses on the seventh derivative or even higher, although only the first derivative and the divided difference appear in these methods. The convergence in this study is shown under hypotheses only on the first derivative. Hence, the applicability of the method is expanded. Finally, numerical examples are also provided to show that our results apply to solve equations in cases where earlier studies cannot apply.
Biochars Derived from Gasified Feedstocks Increase the Growth and Improve Nutrient Acquisition of Triticum aestivum (L.) Grown in Agricultural Alfisols
Authors: Trippe Kristin , Griffith Stephen , Banowetz Gary , Whitaker Gerald
Published: August 2015

Biochars are produced by low-oxygen gasification or pyrolysis of organic waste products, and can be co-produced with energy, achieving waste diversion and delivering a soil amendment that can improve agricultural yields. Although many studies have reported the agronomic benefits of biochars produced from pyrolysis, few have interrogated the ability of gasified biochars to improve crop productivity. An earlier study described the ability of a biochar that was derived from gasified Kentucky bluegrass (KB) seed screenings to impact the chemistry of acidic agricultural soils. However, that study did not measure the effects of the biochar amendment on plant growth or on nutrient acquisition. To quantify these effects we conducted a greenhouse study that evaluated wheat grown in agricultural soils amended with either the KB-based biochar or a biochar derived from a blend of woody mixed-waste. Our studies indicated that biochar amended soils promoted the growth of wheat in these agricultural alfisols. Our elemental analysis indicated that an attenuation of metal toxicity was likely responsible for the increased plant growth. The results of our study are placed in the context of our previous studies that characterized KB-sourced biochar and its effects on soil chemistry.
Evidence for a Role of Prolactin in Mediating Effects of Photoperiod during the Dry Period
Authors: Crawford Heather , Morin Dawn , Wall Emma , McFadden Thomas , Dahl Geoffrey
Published: August 2015

Photoperiod manipulation during the lactation cycle alters milk yield, with long days (LDPP) increasing yield in lactation and short days (SDPP) in the dry period improving subsequent yield. Circulating prolactin (PRL) is directly related to day length, with LDPP increasing and SDPP decreasing PRL, respectively. Two blocks of 24 multiparous Holstein cows were used during two consecutive years to test the hypothesis that the mammary response to SDPP is the result of decreased concentrations of PRL in the circulation relative to LDPP. Cows were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups during the dry period: SDPP, LDPP, or SDPP+PRL. Cows were returned to ambient photoperiod at calving and milk yield and DMI recorded for 120 d and 42 d, respectively. Mammary biopsies were obtained to determine rates of [3H]-thymidine incorporation into DNA in vitro. Treatment of SDPP cows with PRL caused a rapid increase in systemic PRL that reached concentrations similar to cows under LDPP. The periparturient PRL surge was similar for LDPP and SDPP+PRL cows, but those groups had greater surge concentrations versus SDPP. Cows exposed to SDPP produced more milk than LDPP cows, and there was a trend for SDPP+PRL cows to produce more milk than LDPP cows. Milk production was inversely related to the periparturient PRL surge. There was a trend for a treatment effect on mammary cell proliferation with greater proliferation in mammary tissue of SDPP cows relative to LDPP or SDPP+PRL on day −20 relative to parturition. Replacement of PRL to cows on SDPP when dry resulted in milk yield intermediate to cows on SDPP or LDPP, supporting the concept of a link between dry period PRL and yield.