bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responsiveness of platelets during storage studied with flow cytometry – formation of platelet subpopulations and LAMP‐1 as new markers for the platelet storage lesion
Authors: Södergren A. L. , Tynngård N. , Berlin G. , Ramström S.
Published: September 2015

Background and Objectives

Storage lesions may prevent transfused platelets to respond to agonists and arrest bleeding. The aim of this study was to evaluate and quantify the capacity of platelet activation during storage using flow cytometry and new markers of platelet activation.

Materials and Methods

Activation responses of platelets prepared by apheresis were measured on days 1, 5, 7 and 12. In addition, comparisons were made for platelet concentrates stored until swirling was affected. Lysosome‐associated membrane protein‐1 (LAMP‐1), P‐selectin and phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure were assessed by flow cytometry on platelets in different subpopulations in resting state or following stimulation with platelet agonists (cross‐linked collagen‐related peptide (CRP‐XL), PAR1‐ and PAR4‐activating peptides).

Results

The ability to form subpopulations upon activation was significantly decreased already at day 5 for some agonist combinations. The agonist‐induced exposure of PS and LAMP‐1 also gradually decreased with time. Spontaneous exposure of P‐selectin and PS increased with time, while spontaneous LAMP‐1 exposure was unchanged. In addition, agonist‐induced LAMP‐1 expression clearly discriminated platelet concentrates with reduced swirling from those with retained swirling. This suggests that LAMP‐1 could be a good marker to capture changes in activation capacity in stored platelets.

Conclusion

The platelet activation potential seen as LAMP‐1 exposure and fragmentation into platelet subpopulations is potential sensitive markers for the platelet storage lesion.
Parameter Selection in the Parameter Estimation of Grade Transitions in a Polyethylene Plant
Authors: Andersson Niklas , Larsson Per-Ola , Åkesson Johan , Carlsson Niclas , Skålén Staffan , Nilsson Bernt
Published: September 2015

A polyethylene plant at Borealis AB is modelled in the Modelica language and considered for parameter estimations at grade transitions. Parameters have been estimated for both the steady-state and the dynamic case using the JModelica.org platform, which offers tools for steady-state parameter estimation and supports simulation with parameter sensitivies. The model contains 31 candidate parameters, giving a huge amount of possible parameter combinations. The best parameter sets have been chosen using a parameter-selection algorithm that identified parameter sets with poor numerical properties. The parameter-selection algorithm reduces the number of parameter sets that is necessary to explore. The steady-state differs from the dynamic case with respect to parameter selection. Validations of the parameter estimations in the dynamic case show a significant reduction in an objective value used to evaluate the quality of the solution from that of the nominal reference, where the nominal parameter values are used.
Effects of Long-Term Stowage on the Deployment of Bistable Tape Springs
Authors: Brinkmeyer Alex , Pellegrino Sergio , Weaver Paul M.
Published: September 2015

In the context of strain-energy-deployed space structures, material relaxation effects play a significant role in structures that are stowed for long durations, for example, in a space vehicle prior to launch. Here, the deployment of an ultrathin carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) tape spring is studied, with the aim of understanding how long-duration stowage affects its deployment behavior. Analytical modeling and experiments show that the deployment time increases predictably with stowage time and temperature, and analytical predictions are found to compare well with experiments. For cases where stress relaxation is excessive, the structure is shown to lose its ability to deploy autonomously.
Two-Phase Flow Pressure Drop in Corrugated Tubes Used in an Aero-engine Oil System
Authors: Flouros Michael , Kanarachos Andreas , Yakinthos Kyros , Salpingidou Christina , Cottier Francois
Published: September 2015

In modern aero-engines, the lubrication system holds a key role due to the demand for high reliability standards. An aero-engine bearing chamber contains components like bearings and gears. Oil is used for lubrication and for heat removal. In order to retain the oil in a bearing chamber, pressurized seals are used. These are pressurized using air from the compressor. In order to avoid overpressurization of the bearing chamber, air/oil passages are provided in the bearing chamber. At the top, a vent pipe discharges most of the sealing air and at the bottom, a scavenge pipe is used for discharging the oil by means of a pump (scavenge pump). The scavenge pipe is setup in most cases by tubes of circular or noncircular cross sections. When the scavenge pipe has to be routed in a way that sharp bends or elbows are unavoidable, flexible (corrugated) pipes can be used. Because of the corrugation, considerable flow resistance with high-pressure drop can result. This may cause overpressurization of the bearing compartment with oil loss into the turbomachinery with possibility of ignition, coking (carbon formation), or contamination of the aircraft’s air conditioning system. It is therefore important for the designer to be capable to predict the system’s pressure balance behavior. A real engine bearing chamber sealed by brush seals was used for generating different air/oil mixtures thus corresponding to different engine operating conditions. The mixtures were discharged through a scavenge pipe which was partly setup by corrugated tubes. Instead of a mechanical pump, an ejector was used for evacuating the bearing chamber. An extensive survey covering the existing technical literature on corrugated tube pressure drop was performed and is presented in this paper. The survey has covered both single-phase and multiphase flows. Existing methods were checked against the test results. The method which was most accurately predicting lean air test results from the rig was benchmarked and was used as the basis for extending into a two-phase flow pressure drop correlation by applying two-phase flow multiplier techniques similar to Lockhart and Martinelli. Comparisons of the new two-phase flow pressure drop correlation with an existing correlation by Shannak are presented for mixtures like air/oil, air/water, air/diesel, and air/kerosene. Finally, numerical analysis results using ansys cfx version 15 are presented.
The physics of musical scales: Theory and experiment
Authors: Durfee Dallin S. , Colton John S.
Published: September 2015

The theory of musical scales involves mathematical ratios, harmonic resonators, beats, and human perception and provides an interesting application of the physics of waves and sound. We first review the history and physics of musical scales, with an emphasis on four historically important scales: twelve-tone equal temperament, Pythagorean, quarter-comma meantone, and Ptolemaic just intonation. We then present an easy way for students and teachers to directly experience the qualities of different scales using MIDI synthesis.
Seaborg's plutonium? A case study in nuclear forensics
Authors: Norman Eric B. , Thomas Keenan J. , Telhami Kristina E.
Published: September 2015

Passive X-ray and gamma–ray analysis was performed on a curious sample from UC Berkeley's Hazardous Material Facility inventory, and the object was found to contain 239Pu. No other radioactive isotopes were observed. The mass of 239Pu contained in this object was determined to be 2.0 ± 0.3 μg. These observations are consistent with the identification of this object as containing the 2.77-μg PuO2 (2.44 μg 239Pu) sample produced in 1942 and described by Seaborg and his collaborators as the first sample of 239Pu that was large enough to be weighed.
Race Factors Affecting Performance Times in Elite Long-Track Speed Skating
Authors: Noordhof Dionne A. , Mulder Roy C.M. , de Koning Jos J. , Hopkins Will G.
Published: September 2015

Analysis of sport performance can provide effects of environmental and other venue-specific factors in addition to estimates of within-athlete variability between competitions, which determines smallest worthwhile effects.

Purpose:

To analyze elite long-track speed-skating events.

Methods:

Log-transformed performance times were analyzed with a mixed linear model that estimated percentage mean effects for altitude, barometric pressure, type of rink, and competition importance. In addition, coefficients of variation representing residual venue-related differences and within-athlete variability between races within clusters spanning ~8 d were determined. Effects and variability were assessed with magnitude-based inference.

Results:

A 1000-m increase in altitude resulted in very large mean performance improvements of 2.8% in juniors and 2.1% in seniors. An increase in barometric pressure of 100 hPa resulted in a moderate reduction in performance of 1.1% for juniors but an unclear effect for seniors. Only juniors competed at open rinks, resulting in a very large reduction in performance of 3.4%. Juniors and seniors showed small performance improvements (0.4% and 0.3%) at the more important competitions. After accounting for these effects, residual venue-related variability was still moderate to large. The within-athlete within-cluster race-to-race variability was 0.3–1.3%, with a small difference in variability between male (0.8%) and female juniors (1.0%) and no difference between male and female seniors (both 0.6%).

Conclusion:

The variability in performance times of skaters is similar to that of athletes in other sports in which air or water resistance limits speed. A performance enhancement of 0.1–0.4% by top-10 athletes is necessary to increase medal-winning chances by 10%.
The Effects of Physical Activity and Fitness in Adolescence on Cognition in Adulthood and the Role of Insulin-Like Growth Factor I
Authors: Ferro Doeschka A. , Deijen Jan Berend , Koppes Lando L. , van Mechelen Willem , Twisk Jos W. , Drent Madeleine L.
Published: September 2015

Background:

Physical activity and fitness in adolescence may improve cognition in adulthood by increasing insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I).

Methods:

As part of the Amsterdam Growth and Health Longitudinal Study, following subjects from age 13 to 42 years, physical activity and fitness of 303 subjects were assessed annually between the ages 13 to 16. At mean age 36, physical activity, fitness and IGF-I were measured. At mean age 42, IGF-I and cognitive factors (ie, executive functioning and visual-spatial memory) were measured. The linear regression of physical activity and fitness in adolescence and IGF-I in adulthood on cognitive scores in adulthood was investigated.

Results:

A significant association was found in males between physical activity in adolescence and executive function in adulthood (Spatial Working Memory Between Errors: β = –.18, B = –.13, 95% CI = –.259 to –.010; Spatial Working Memory Strategy: β = –.20, B = –.08, 95% CI = –.147 to –.014). No association between physical activity or fitness in adolescence and cognitive function in adulthood was found in females, nor any intermediate role for IGF-I in either sex.

Conclusions:

The results suggest a stimulating effect of adolescent physical activity in males on executive functions in adulthood, emphasizing the importance of an active lifestyle among adolescent males.
Leukaemia cutis after starting bendamustine: cause or coincidence?
Authors: Mawri Sagger , Nabi Shahzaib , Jallad Bassel , Won Joseph
Published: September 2015

A 55-year-old man with a history of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia presented with diffuse skin lesions that began 1 week after starting a new chemotherapy regimen with bendamustine and rituximab. The lesions appeared as erythematous papules that were neither itchy nor tender, and did not blanch with pressure. Initially, they began on his scalp and flanks and, over the next few days, spread diffusely throughout his body, becoming darker in colour. Skin biopsy showed atypical clonal B-cell proliferation in a perivascular, periadnexal and dermal band-like distribution, which was further characterised by immunohistochemical evaluation. These findings were suggestive of leukaemia cutis and consistent with the patient's chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, which was previously confirmed by bone marrow biopsy. The bendamustine was stopped and the patient's chemotherapy regimen was switched to fludarabine, cyclophosphamide and rituximab. Shortly thereafter, the leukaemia cutis regressed significantly.
A Peruvian family with a high burden of HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis
Authors: Alvarez Carolina , Verdonck Kristien , Tipismana Martín , Gotuzzo Eduardo
Published: September 2015

Human T-lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV-1) is frequent in Peru; an estimated 1–2% of the Peruvian population carry this retrovirus. HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) is a chronic disabling disease that affects about 1% of the carriers of HTLV-1. It is not yet known why some HTLV-1-infected people develop HAM/TSP while others do not. In this case report, we present a family with an unusually high burden of HAM/TSP: 5 (the 2 parents and 3 of their children) of 7 HTLV-1 carriers developed the same disease. We describe the clinical presentation and discuss the clustering of disease against the current knowledge of the pathogenesis of HAM/TSP. Families such as this may hold the key to discovering which factors trigger the development of HAM/TSP.
Sustained release oral morphine as an alternative to methadone for the treatment of opioid-use disorder post Torsades de Pointes cardiac arrest
Authors: Walton Geoffrey , Nolan Seonaid , Sutherland Christy , Ahamad Keith
Published: September 2015

In most settings, approved medications for the treatment of opioid-use disorder include methadone and buprenorphine/naloxone, and in some settings, naltrexone. We present a case in which methadone administration was associated with an in-hospital episode of Torsades de Pointes in a patient who was subsequently maintained on sustained release oral morphine (SROM) for treatment of his opioid-use disorder. This transition was made in the context of long-term compliance to methadone maintenance, and with a previous adverse reaction to buprenorphine/naloxone precluding its use. The change to SROM, supported by emerging evidence, resulted in a reduction in the patient's measured QTc interval, prevention of further arrhythmias and continued abstinence from illicit opioid-use. In this context, we believe careful consideration should be given to the use of SROM.
Generalised fibrotic gingival enlargement in a psoriatic patient: an association or a coincidence?
Authors: Thada Smitha Rani , Vineetha Ravindranath , Pai Keerthilatha M
Published: September 2015

Gingival ﬁbromatosis is a rare, benign, slow progressive fibrous overgrowth of gingiva, with great genetic and clinical heterogeneity. It can be inherited as an isolated trait (hereditary/idiopathic gingival ﬁbromatosis), and/or as a component of a syndrome. We report a case of a young girl suffering from psoriasis who also presented with an unusual generalised idiopathic gingival fibromatosis. Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, of multifactorial origin, is characterised by keratinocyte hyperproliferation, dedifferentiation, neoangiogenesis and inflammation. T cell-mediated immunity is considered to be the key element in the disease process. The existence of oral mucosal alterations in patients with psoriasis is a controversial topic, as histopathological correlations are not clearly evident, and oral and cutaneous lesions do not follow a parallel course. However, this article highlights a possible association of T-lymphocyte stimulation inducing fibroblasts to undergo epidermal hyperproliferation and increased collagen production in the gingiva, which in turn may be responsible for inducing gingival hyperplasia.
Megalencephalic leucoencephalopathy with subcortical cysts: subcortical diffuse leucoencephalopathy associated with white matter cystic degeneration
Authors: Dash Prafulla Kumar , Raj Dinesh Harvey , Sahu Hrushikesh
Published: September 2015

Megalencephalic leucoencephalopathy with subcortical cysts (MLC) is a diffuse subcortical leucoencephalopathy with cystic white matter degeneration. Patients with MLC present with macrocephaly at the first year of life, and neurological abnormalities such as motor deterioration, ataxia, spasticity and cognitive defects progress later. MLC is caused by mutations in the gene MLC1, which encodes a novel protein, MLC1. There is no specific treatment for MLC. Management is based on physiotherapy procedures, psychomotor stimulation and treatment of seizures. We report a case of a 1-year-old boy with a normal birth and developmental history, presenting with progressive increase of head size; on further evaluation with CT and MRI of the brain, the child was diagnosed as MLC.
Pore pressures induced by piezocone penetration
Authors: Chai Jin-chun , Hossain Md. Julfikar , Yuan Da-Jun , Shen Shui-long , Carter John P.
Published: September 2015

The excess pore-water pressures (u) induced by piezocone penetration and their dissipation around the cone have been investigated by laboratory model tests and theoretical–numerical analyses. Based on the test results, a method for predicting cone penetration–induced distribution of u has been proposed. By numerical analysis using the predicted initial distribution of u it has been demonstrated that dissipation of the pore-water pressure measured at the shoulder of the cone (u2-type cone) is a two-dimensional (horizontal radial and vertical) process. A back-fitted coefficient of consolidation in the horizontal direction (ch) can be obtained by comparing the simulated and laboratory-measured two-dimensional dissipation curves. It has also been shown that a published method for estimating chfrom measured nonstandard dissipation curves (in which u2increases initially and then decreases) results in values of chthat agree well with values of chdeduced from the two-dimensional analysis.
Arithmetic of character varieties of free groups
Authors: Mozgovoy Sergey , Reineke Markus
Published: September 2015

Via counting over finite fields, we derive explicit formulas for the [Formula: see text]-polynomials and Euler characteristics of [Formula: see text]- and [Formula: see text]-character varieties of free groups. We prove a positivity property for these polynomials and relate them to the number of subgroups of finite index.
Effect of inserted Cu layer on CoFe/Cu/MgO/CoFe magnetic tunnel junction
Authors: Bian Baoan , Chu Bing , Zhu Zhuomao , Zheng Yapeng
Published: September 2015

In this paper, we carried out first-principles calculations based on density functional theory and nonequilibrium Green’s function to investigate the tunneling magnetoresistance effect in CoFe/Cu/MgO/CoFe magnetic tunnel junctions. Insertion of a nonmagnetic Cu layer between the tunnel barrier and the electrode is shown to result in the inverse and oscillation of the tunneling magnetoresistance as a function of the Cu layer at different bias voltage. The inverse phenomenon is discussed in terms of the conductance and the tunneling probability of electron at zero bias voltage. We suggest that the oscillation of tunneling magnetoresistance results from quantum well state formed in nonmagnetic Cu layer which can bring about the multiple scattering of tunneling electrons due to influence of the bias voltage on the oscillation period of the tunneling magnetoresistance.
Effects of hydrogen on diamond single crystal synthesized under high pressure and high temperature
Authors: Li Yong , Jia Xiaopeng , Song Mousheng , Ma Hong-An , Zhou Zhenxiang , Fang Chao , Wang Fangbiao , Chen Ning , Wang Ying
Published: September 2015

In this paper, diamond single crystals doped with LiH and boron additives were synthesized in [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] system under high pressure and high temperature. Under the fixed pressure condition, we found that the synthesis temperature increased slightly after the addition of LiH in the synthesis system. The {100}-orientated surface morphology was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The nitrogen concentration in the obtained diamond was analyzed and evaluated using Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Furthermore, the electrical properties of Ib-type and boron-doped diamond before and after hydrogenation using Hall effect measurement, which suggested that the conductivity of diamond co-doped with hydrogen and boron was obviously enhanced than that of boron-doped diamond.
Suppression of pattern complexity by discrete-space state feedback with equal intervals
Authors: Du Lin , Zhang Ying , Sun Zhongkui , Yue Xiaole
Published: September 2015

The suppression of the pattern complexity of spatiotemporal chaos in Coupled Acousto-optic Bistable Map Lattice system (CABMLs) is investigated. The pattern complexity of spatiotemporal dynamics is exhibited quantitatively by employing the average Kolmogorov–Sinai (KS) entropy density according to the Lyapunov exponents of lattices. By designing a global control method with periodic state feedback, we provide the stability analysis for suppressing spatiotemporal chaos to a stable state. Then, a pattern control strategy using discrete-space state feedback with equal intervals is proposed. Numerical simulations demonstrate that the pattern complexity of spatiotemporal chaos is decreased to a low level by the proposed method. Finally, the dependence of the control effect on the control interval is discussed in detail by considering the control efficiency and control cost and the optimal control interval is obtained.
A proactive quantum secret sharing scheme based on GHZ state
Authors: Qin Huawang , Zhu Xiaohua , Dai Yuewei
Published: September 2015

A proactive quantum secret sharing scheme is proposed, in which the participants can update their shadows periodically. In an updating period, one participant randomly generates the GHZ states and sends the particles to the other participants, and the participants update their shadows according to the measurement performed on the particles. After an updating period, each participant can change his shadow but the secret is changeless. The old shadows will be useless even if they have been stolen by the attacker. The proactive property is very useful to resist the mobile attacker.
First-principles calculations for thermodynamic properties of type-I silicon clathrate intercalated by sodium atoms
Authors: Zhang Wei , Chen Qing Yun , Li Bin , Zeng Zhao Yi , Cai Ling Cang
Published: September 2015

The ground state properties of the silicon clathrate [Formula: see text] intercalated by alkali metal sodium atoms [Formula: see text] are investigated by first-principle methods. Birch–Murnaghan equation of state is fitted to two sets of the [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] data calculated by density functional theory based on the plane-wave basis set within both the local density approximation (LDA) and the generalized gradient approximation (GGA). Through quasi-harmonic Debye model, some thermodynamic properties comprise the heat capacity, the thermal expansion coefficient, Debye temperature and the Grüneisen parameter for this clathrate compounds [Formula: see text] are obtained, which agree well with experimental results. Comparing the calculated heat specific in two ways with experimental results, we find that it is more accurate to describe the “rattle” modes of gust Na atoms in the cages as Einstein oscillators. Moreover, the effects of high pressure on these thermodynamic properties are also investigated which will be very helpful for a synthesis of these clathrate compounds in experiments under high pressure and high temperature condition.
Asymptotic state lumping in transport and diffusion problems on networks with applications to population problems
Authors: Banasiak Jacek , Falkiewicz Aleksandra , Namayanja Proscovia
Published: September 2015

In this paper we consider a general macro-model describing a metapopulation consisting of several interacting with each other subpopulations connected through a network, with the rules of interactions given by a system of ordinary differential equations. For such a model we construct two different micro-models in which each subpopulation has its own structure and dynamics. Precisely, each subpopulation occupies an edge of a graph and its dynamics is driven, respectively, by diffusion or transport along the edge. The interactions between the subpopulations are described by interface conditions at the nodes which the edges are incident to. We prove that with an appropriate scaling, roughly speaking with, respectively, fast diffusion or fast transport combined with slow exchange at the nodes, the solutions of the micro-models can be approximated by the solution to the macro-model.
A nonlocal swarm model for predators–prey interactions
Authors: Di Francesco Marco , Fagioli Simone
Published: September 2015

We consider a two-species system of nonlocal interaction PDEs modeling the swarming dynamics of predators and prey, in which all agents interact through attractive/repulsive forces of gradient type. In order to model the predator–prey interaction, we prescribed proportional potentials (with opposite signs) for the cross-interaction part. The model has a particle-based discrete (ODE) version and a continuum PDE version. We investigate the structure of particle stationary solution and their stability in the ODE system in a systematic form, and then consider simple examples. We then prove that the stable particle steady states are locally stable for the fully nonlinear continuum model, provided a slight reinforcement of the particle condition is required. The latter result holds in one space dimension. We complement all the particle examples with simple numerical simulations, and we provide some two-dimensional examples to highlight the complexity in the large time behavior of the system.
Optimal control of a collective migration model
Authors: Piccoli Benedetto , Pouradier Duteil Nastassia , Scharf Benjamin
Published: September 2015

Collective migration of animals in a cohesive group is rendered possible by a strategic distribution of tasks among members: some track the travel route, which is time and energy-consuming, while the others follow the group by interacting among themselves. In this paper, we study a social dynamics system modeling collective migration. We consider a group of agents able to align their velocities to a global target velocity, or to follow the group via interaction with the other agents. The balance between these two attractive forces is our control for each agent, as we aim to drive the group to consensus at the target velocity. We show that the optimal control strategies in the case of final and integral costs consist of controlling the agents whose velocities are the furthest from the target one: these agents sense only the target velocity and become leaders, while the uncontrolled ones sense only the group, and become followers. Moreover, in the case of final cost, we prove an “Inactivation” principle: there exist initial conditions such that the optimal control strategy consists of letting the system evolve freely for an initial period of time, before acting with full control on the agent furthest from the target velocity.
The OMT Classification of Congenital Anomalies of the Hand and Upper Limb
Authors: Tonkin Michael A. , Oberg Kerby C.
Published: September 2015

The Oberg, Manske and Tonkin (OMT) Classification of congenital anomalies of the hand and upper limb uses dysmorphological terminology, placing conditions in one of three groups: Malformations, Deformations and Dysplasias. The main group, Malformations, is further subdivided according to whether the whole of the limb is affected or the hand plate alone, and whether the primary insult involves one of the three axes of limb development and patterning or is non-axial. The common surgical diagnoses, such as thumb duplication and thumb hypoplasia, are then placed within this framework. Recently the International Federation of Societies for Surgery of the Hand Scientific Committee for Congenital Conditions approved the OMT Classification as a timely and appropriate replacement of the previously accepted Swanson Classification. This review charts the development of and modifications to the OMT Classification and its current status.
Anticipatory and Reactive Response to Falls: Muscle Synergy Activation of Forearm Muscles
Authors: Couzens Greg , Kerr Graham
Published: September 2015

We investigated the surface electromyogram response of six forearm muscles to falls onto the outstretched hand. The extensor carpi radialis longus, extensor carpi radialis brevis, extensor carpi ulnaris, abductor pollicis longus, flexor carpi radialis and flexor carpi ulnaris muscles were sampled from eight volunteers who underwent ten self-initiated falls. All muscles initiated prior to impact. Co-contraction is the most obvious surface electromyogram feature. The predominant response is in the radial deviators. The surface electromyogram timing we recorded would appear to be a complex anticipatory response to falling modified by the effect on the forearm muscles following impact. The mitigation of the force of impact is probably more importantly through shoulder abduction and extension and elbow flexion rather than action of the forearm muscles.
Comparison between Collagenase Injection and Partial Fasciectomy in the Treatment of Dupuytren’s Contracture
Authors: Tay Terence Khai Wei , Tien Huey , Lim Elizabeth Yenn Lynn
Published: September 2015

Background: A comparative study between two treatment methods (collagenase injection and open partial fasciectomy) for Dupuytren’s contracture. This study will determine differences in clinical outcome, complication rate and patient satisfaction.

Methods: 37 patients with 62 metacarpophalangeal joints (MCP) and 44 proximal interphalangeal joints (PIP) treated. There were 21 MCP joints (34%) and 8 PIP joints (18%) treated with injection. The remaining 66% of MCP joints and 82% of PIP joints were treated by open partial fasciectomy.

Results: Overall, both treatment methods were successful in correcting the passive extension deficit in the MCP and PIP joints. Minor complications were reported in 45% of patients in the injection group versus 42% in the surgery group. Patient satisfaction was nearly equal for both groups.

Conclusions: Both treatment options have proven their effectiveness in treating Dupuytren’s contracture. Open surgery is able to address additional joint contracture problems commonly associated with Dupuytren’s disease. Collagenase injection has the advantage of early return of hand function and avoidance of surgical complications.
On the cardinality of β-expansions of some numbers
Authors: Zou Yuru , Li Wenxia , Lu Jian
Published: September 2015

Let [Formula: see text]. It is well known that every [Formula: see text] has a [Formula: see text]-expansion of the form [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] denotes the largest integer not exceeding [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] denote the sets of all [Formula: see text]-expansions of [Formula: see text] and the set of [Formula: see text]-prefixes of all [Formula: see text]-expansions of [Formula: see text], respectively. We show that [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are equivalent under a certain finiteness condition.
Modeling of Heat and Moisture Transfer in an Indirect Evaporative Cooler Made of Plastic Film/Paper
Authors: Kim Nae-Hyun
Published: September 2015

In this study, a thermal model of indirect evaporative cooler (IEC) was constructed. An IEC made of plastic film/paper composite was tested, and the results were compared with predictions of the model. In adddition, parametric study was conducted using the model. The model was based on [Formula: see text]-NTU analysis of wet surface heat and mass transfer. Especially, the model considered air leakage, nonuniform overall heat transfer coefficient and entrance region. Comparison of the predictions of the model with limited experimental data showed favorable results. Parametric study using the model showed that increase of the dry and wet channel inlet temperature resulted in increase of the indirect evaporation efficiency. The increase of the wet channel inlet humidity also increases the efficiency. The dry channel inlet humidity, however, was independent of the efficiency. The indirect evaporation efficiency and the pressure drop increased as the IEC size increased. However, they decreased as the channel height increased.
Research on Dissipation and Fatigue Capacity of Nonstiffener Shear Panel Dampers
Authors: Li Ji-long , Tang Ya-nan , Liu Xuan-ming
Published: September 2015

Passive energy dissipation control system can effectively control structure response under seismic action. As a form of passive energy dissipation control, yielding steel shear panel dampers can dissipate energy of the ground motion very well with the plastic deformation. By monotonic cyclic loading, hysteretic performance of the 15 mm thick core-board nonstiffener shear panel damper is tested, and the test shows that the damper has a superior hysteretic performance. Using finite element analysis software ABAQUS, and taking height to thickness ratio of the core-board as variable, the qualitative analysis on the damper is carried out, and results show that the critical height to thickness ratio of shear panel damper is between 30 and 35. Three groups of 15 mm thick core-board nonstiffener shear panel dampers are tested by constant amplitude cyclic loading under different amplitudes; the results show that the fatigue performance is fine and the damper is a good energy dissipation device.
Fault Diagnosis for Gearbox Based on Improved Empirical Mode Decomposition
Authors: Zhao Ling , Huang Darong , Qin Yi
Published: September 2015

The application of the improved empirical mode decomposition (EMD) theory in gearbox fault diagnosis has been studied in this paper, and the transient features of gearbox vibration signals are shown. Based on using EMD, an improved algorithm of orthogonal empirical mode decomposition (OEMD) is put forward and is applied to extract the fault feature. Finally, fault diagnosis application in a gearbox is used as an example to prove the feasibility of the proposed method.
Antiplatelet Aggregation and Antithrombosis Efficiency of Peptides in the Snake Venom ofDeinagkistrodon acutus: Isolation, Identification, and Evaluation
Authors: Ding Bin , Xu Zhenghong , Qian Chaodong , Jiang Fusheng , Ding Xinghong , Ruan Yeping , Ding Zhishan , Fan Yongsheng
Published: September 2015

Two peptides of Pt-A (Glu-Asn-Trp 429 Da) and Pt-B (Glu-Gln-Trp 443 Da) were isolated from venom liquor ofDeinagkistrodon acutus. Their antiplatelet aggregation effects were evaluated with platelet-rich human plasmain vitro; the respective IC50of Pt-A and Pt-B was 66 μM and 203 μM. Both peptides exhibited protection effects on ADP-induced paralysis in mice. After ADP administration, the paralysis time of different concentration of Pt-A and Pt-B lasted as the following: 80 mg/kg Pt-B (152.8 ± 57.8 s) < 40 mg/kg Pt-A (163.5 ± 59.8 s) < 20 mg/kg Pt-A (253.5 ± 74.5 s) < 4 mg/kg clopidogrel (a positive control, 254.5 ± 41.97 s) < 40 mg/kg Pt-B (400.8 ± 35.9 s) < 10 mg/kg Pt-A (422.8 ± 55.4 s), all of which were statistically shorter than the saline treatment (666 ± 28 s). Pulmonary tissue biopsy confirmed that Pt-A and Pt-B prevented the formation of thrombi in the lung. Unlike ADP injection alone, which caused significant reduction of peripheral platelet count, Pt-A treatment prevented the drop of peripheral platelet counts; interestingly, Pt-B could not, even though the same amount of Pt-B also showed protection effects on ADP-induced paralysis and thrombosis. More importantly, intravenous injection of Pt-A and Pt-B did not significantly increase the hemorrhage risks as clopidogrel.
A Method Combining Order Tracking and Fuzzy C-Means for Diesel Engine Fault Detection and Isolation
Authors: Zeng Ruili , Zhang Lingling , Xiao Yunkui , Mei Jianmin , Zhou Bin , Zhao Huimin , Jia Jide
Published: September 2015

Diesel engine works under variable speed conditions; fault symptoms are clearer in the angular/order domains than in the common time/frequency ones. In this paper, firstly, the acceleration signal of diesel engine is resampled by order tracking, in which the rotating speed is computed in every working cycle, and the order tracking spectrum is created in each interval’s speed; then different order band accumulated energy is computed as feature vector. After standardizing these features, the fuzzy c-means (FCM) is introduced to use them as input vector; the optimized classified matrix and clustering centers can be obtained using FCM iteration method; then the fault can be detected by calculating the approach degree between the unknown samples and the known ones. To validate the method, some experiments have been performed; the results show that the signal can be reconstructed, and the features of order band accumulated energy can reflect the information of different wear conditions in crank-shaft bearing; then the fault can be detected accurately. The method of nonentire work cycle is also introduced as a comparison with our method; the result shows our method has more accuracy classification.
Glycated Albumin Levels in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Increase Relative to HbA1cwith Time
Authors: Yoon Hye-jin , Lee Yong-ho , Kim Kwang Joon , Kim So Ra , Kang Eun Seok , Cha Bong-Soo , Lee Hyun Chul , Lee Byung-Wan
Published: September 2015

We recently reported that glycated albumin (GA) is increased in subjects with longer duration of diabetes and with decreased insulin secretory function. Based on this, we investigated whether GA increases with time relative to glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and the association between GA and beta-cell function. We analyzed 340 type 2 diabetes patients whose serum GA and HbA1c levels had been repeatedly measured over 4 years. We assessed the pattern of changes with time in glycemic indices (GA,HbA1c, and GA/HbA1cratio) and their relationship with beta-cell function. In all patients, glycemic indices decreased and maintained low levels around 15 and 27 months. However, from 39 months to 51 months, GA significantly increased butHbA1ctended to increase without statistical significance. We defined ΔGA/HbA1cas the difference between the nadir point (at 15 to 27 months) and the end point (at 39 to 51 months) and found that ΔGA/HbA1cwas positively correlated with diabetes duration and negatively related to beta-cell function. In multivariable linear regression analyses, ΔGA/HbA1cwas independently associated with diabetes duration. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that serum GA levels increase relative toHbA1clevels with time.
Excimer versus Femtosecond Laser Assisted Penetrating Keratoplasty in Keratoconus and Fuchs Dystrophy: Intraoperative Pitfalls
Authors: El-Husseiny Moatasem , Seitz Berthold , Langenbucher Achim , Akhmedova Elena , Szentmary Nora , Hager Tobias , Tsintarakis Themistoklis , Janunts Edgar
Published: September 2015

Purpose. To assess the intraoperative results comparing two non-mechanical laser assisted penetrating keratoplasty approaches in keratoconus and Fuchs dystrophy.Patients and Methods. 68 patients (age 18 to 87 years) with keratoconus or Fuchs dystrophy were randomly distributed to 4 groups. 35 eyes with keratoconus and 33 eyes with Fuchs dystrophy were treated with either excimer laser ([Exc] groups I and II) or femtosecond laser-assisted ([FLAK] groups III and IV) penetrating keratoplasty. Main intraoperative outcome measures included intraoperative decentration, need for additional interrupted sutures, alignment of orientation markers, and intraocular positive pressure (vis a tergo).Results. Intraoperative recipient decentration occurred in 4 eyes of groups III/IV but in none of groups I/II. Additional interrupted sutures were not necessary in groups I/II but in 5 eyes of groups III/IV. Orientation markers were all aligned in groups I/II but were partly misaligned in 8 eyes of groups III/IV. Intraocular positive pressure grade was recognized in 12 eyes of groups I/II and in 19 eyes of groups III/IV. In particular, in group III, severe vis a tergo occurred in 8 eyes.Conclusions. Intraoperative decentration, misalignment of the donor in the recipient bed, and need for additional interrupted sutures as well as high percentage of severe intraocular positive pressure were predominantly present in the femtosecond laser in keratoconus eyes.
Antibacterial Membrane with a Bone‐Like Structure for Guided Bone Regeneration
Authors: Zhang YuYuan , Mao WeiJia , Wang Jian , Li Quan-Li , Mei May Lei , Chu Chun Hung , Xia Rong , Zhang Zhi-Hong
Published: September 2015

An antibacterial membrane with a bone‐like structure was developed for guided bone regeneration (GBR) by mineralising acellular bovine pericardium (ABP) and loading it with the antibiotic minocycline. The bovine pericardium (BP) membrane was processed using physical and chemical methods to remove the cellular components and obtain ABP membranes. Then, the ABP membranes were biomimetically mineralised using a calcium phosphate‐loaded agarose hydrogel system aided by electrophoresis. Minocycline was adsorbed to the mineralised ABP membrane, and the release profile in vitro was studied. The membranes were characterised through scanning electron microscopy, diffuse reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. Results showed that the ABP membrane had an asymmetric structure with a layer of densely arranged and irregularly aligned collagen fibrils. Collagen fibrils were calcified with the formation of intrafibrillar and interfibrillar hydroxyapatites similar to the bone structure. Minocycline was incorporated into the mineralised collagen membrane and could be released in vitro. This process endowed the membrane with an antibacterial property. This novel composite membrane offers promising applications in bioactive GBR.
Qualitative Evaluation of Baduanjin (Traditional Chinese Qigong) on Health Promotion among an Elderly Community Population at Risk for Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Zheng Guohua , Fang Qianying , Chen Bai , Yi Hongmei , Lin Qiu , Chen Lidian
Published: September 2015

Background. Baduanjin is a traditional Chinese qigong that has been practiced for a long time in China as a mind-body exercise in community elderly populations. The objective of this study was to qualitatively evaluate the perceived benefit of regular Baduanjin qigong in community elders.Methods. A total of 20 participants who had completed the 12-week Baduanjin qigong training were interviewed regarding their perceived effect on physical and psychological health and whether Baduanjin qigong was suitable for the elderly.Results. Almost all participants agreed that Baduanjin qigong could promote their multisystem or organ functions (e.g., digestive and circulatory systems), increase their immunity, make their bodies relax, and improve their mood and confidence. Most of the participants also agreed that Baduanjin qigong was appropriate for elderly individuals. Few individuals felt bored because of an hour Baduanjin training each day.Conclusions. The findings suggest that regular Baduanjin qigong may be potentially helpful to promote the overall physical and psychological health of elderly community populations and may be useful and feasible as a body-mind exercise in the health promotion in the elderly community populations.
Diagnostic Value of the Updated Diamond and Forrester Score to Predict Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with Acute-Onset Chest Pain
Authors: Sørgaard Mathias , Linde Jesper James , Kofoed Klaus Fuglsang , Kühl Jørgen Tobias , Kelbæk Henning , Nielsen Walter Bjørn , Hove Jens Dahlgaard
Published: September 2015

Objectives: In the recently updated clinical guidelines from the European Society of Cardiology on the management of stable coronary artery disease (CAD), the updated Diamond Forrester score has been included as a pretest probability (PTP) score to select patients for further diagnostic testing. We investigated the validity of the new guidelines in a population of patients with acute-onset chest pain. Methods: We examined 527 consecutive patients with either an exercise-ECG stress test or single-photon emission computed tomography, and subsequently coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). We compared the diagnostic accuracy of PTP and stress testing assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) to identify significant CAD, defined as at least 1 coronary artery branch with >70% diameter stenosis identified by CCTA. Results: The diagnostic accuracy of PTP was significantly higher than the stress test (AUC 0.80 vs. 0.69; p = 0.009), but the diagnostic accuracy of the combination of PTP and a stress test did not significantly increase when compared to PTP alone (AUC 0.86 vs. 0.80; p = 0.06). Conclusions: PTP using the updated Diamond and Forrester Score is a very useful tool in risk-stratifying patients with acute-onset chest pain at a low-to-intermediate risk of having CAD. Adding a stress test to PTP does not appear to offer significant diagnostic benefit.
Das Distinções Sócio-Espaciais das Toxicomanias Cariocas nas Crônicas de Benjamim Costallat (1922-1929)
Authors: Gurian Gabriel Ferreira
Published: September 2015

O presente artigo tem por objetivo uma breve reflexão acerca das práticas embriagantes vigentes na cidade do Rio de Janeiro na década de 1920, através da análise das crônicas do escritor e jornalista Benjamim Costallat. Abordando um período inicial das proibições legais do consumo e venda de substâncias psicoativas, e de ecos ainda latentes da influência francesa nos modos e costumes cariocas, este trabalho se debruçará sobre cinco crônicas, publicadas entre 1922 e 1929 no Jornal do Brasil, para ponderar acerca dos “venenos” consumidos na então capital da República. Pensando tais escritos como frutos do pensamento e das possibilidades de uma época, que constroem uma imagem dos objetos de que tratam, buscar-se-á analisar a variedade de substâncias, modos de consumo e meios nos quais se consumiam estas drogas, ponderando o que podiam expressar acerca da constituição social e espacial do Rio em princípios do século XX. Para além disto, pensar também os lugares sociais dos tipos de vício e da reabilitação dos viciados, contrapartes de uma mesma realidade toxicômana. Ópio e cocaína eram consumidos, em ocasiões, por públicos análogos, o que não se pode dizer acerca dos locais de consumo ou o significado de cada vício aos olhos dos pares sociais dos consumidores. E ainda, além deste contraste, a reabilitação se mostra plena e socialmente vexativa, requerendo zelo ao sigilar o confinamento do viciado nos camuflados sanatórios cariocas. As diferentes formas de embriaguez do Rio dos anos 1920, assim, se mostram como possíveis indicadores de distinção social observados espacialmente.
Sonic Proxemics and the Art of Persuasion: An Analytical Framework
Authors: Collins Karen , Dockwray Ruth
Published: September 2015

This paper introduces a framework for the creation and analysis of sonic spatialization and proxemics in audiovisual media. The authors apply the framework to three public service announcements to show how sonic proxemics can be used as a rhetorical device that may be used to strengthen political aims.
Sounds, Images, Politics and Place
Authors: Lerman Richard
Published: September 2015

The author discusses the concepts he has developed while gathering sound(s) and images for projects engaging politics and place, often at sites where human rights abuses have taken place. These works include recordings made at several Japanese-American and Aleut internment sites and at Nazi concentration camps, as well as borderlands works, environmental works on water use in the U.S. Southwest, and works addressing climate change in the Arctic.