bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of co-generation combustion chamber inlet line
Authors: Eldho Shibu Melvin , K.S. Jithish
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The catastrophic failures of these thick-wall cylinders are mainly due to the presence of inherent cracks in the material. The present study aims to deal with the analysis of stress for a given range of inside pressure. The paper deals with the calculation of radial and tangential stresses for various external pressure-to-internal pressure ratios and external radius to internal radius of the thick-walled cylinder.

Design/methodology/approach

The inlet line to the combustion chamber normally has an internal diameter of 150 mm and has a thickness of 25 mm. Normal temperature of the working fluid is about 80°C and the outside temperature is kept as room temperature. The present work deals with the stress analysis of the inlet line with and without internal crack. Also the stress intensity factors are calculated to check with the fracture toughness. Analysis is done both theoretically and by FEM by using the well-known software ANSYS.

Findings

Results show that the radial stress is independent of the external radius-to-internal radius ratio, while the tangential stress increases.

Practical implications

In process industries like nuclear or chemical, etc., structures in the form of thick-walled cylinders play a vital role, as its failure can affect humans and the environment. Because of this, the design and analysis of the above cylinders are of much significance.

Originality/value

Due to constant or cyclic operating pressure of pressure vessels and its corresponding pipelines usually in the form of thick-walled cylinders, reliability of the materials and structures used is of critical importance, as its failure can be deadly and possess lethal dangers when the cylinder contains flammable, toxic or reactive working fluid. The major ruling factors for the failure are none other than stress-related defects and presence of cracks.
Research on architecture of security video surveillance network cascade system with big data
Authors: Li Zhihua , Tang Zianfei , Yang Yihua
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The high-efficient processing of mass data is a primary issue in building and maintaining security video surveillance system. This paper aims to focus on the architecture of security video surveillance system, which was based on Hadoop parallel processing technology in big data environment.

Design/methodology/approach

A hardware framework of security video surveillance network cascaded system (SVSNCS) was constructed on the basis of Internet of Things, network cascade technology and Hadoop platform. Then, the architecture model of SVSNCS was proposed using the Hadoop and big data processing platform.

Findings

Finally, we suggested the procedure of video processing according to the cascade network characteristics.

Originality/value

Our paper, which focused on the architecture of security video surveillance system in big data environment on the basis of Hadoop parallel processing technology, provided high-quality video surveillance services for security area.
Impact of integrated HSE management system on power generation in Iran by a unique mathematical programming approach
Authors: Azadeh A. , Motevali Haghighi S. , Hosseinabadi Farahani M. , Yazdanparast R.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Concern for health, safety and environment (HSE) is increasing in many developing countries, especially in energy industries. Improving power plants efficiencies in terms of HSE issues requires considering these issues in performance assessment of power generation units. This study aims to discuss the use of data envelopment analysis methodology for the performance assessment of electrical power plants in Iran by considering HSE and conventional indicators.

Design/methodology/approach

Installed capacity, fuel consumption, labor cost, internal power, forced outage hours, operating hours and total power generation along with HSE indices are taken into consideration for determining the efficiency of 20 electric power plants or decision-making units (DMUs). Moreover, DMUs are ranked based on their relative efficiency scores.

Findings

Results show that HSE factors are significant in performance assessment of the power plants studied in this research, and among HSE factors, health has the most powerful impact on the efficiency of the power plants.

Originality/value

The approach of this study could be used for continuous improvement of combined HSE and conventional factors. It would also help managers to have better comprehension of key shaping factors in terms of HSE.
The damage strain field analysis of triangular symmetrical composite eutectic
Authors: Du Zhihong , Ni Xinhua , Liu Xiequan , Chen Cheng
Published: January 2017

Purpose

According to the microstructural characteristics of composite ceramic, the strain field distribution regularity of triangular symmetrical composite eutectic is obtained from the stress field distribution regularity of three-phase element in composite ceramic. In allusion to the damage of composite eutectic, it is introduced as a variable in this paper with the aim to determine the strain field distribution regularity of triangular symmetrical composite eutectic with damage behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

On the basis of the relationship between strain field and fiber inclusions volume fraction, the strain field of composite eutectic is analyzed.

Findings

The strain field of composite ceramic is distinctly dependent on the fiber inclusions volume fraction, fiber diameter and damage behavior of composite eutectic by quantitative analysis. The strain in matrix parallel to eutectic is the maximum linear strain and the main factor for the damage and fracture of eutectics.

Originality/value

The foundation of the strength research of composite eutectic is laid.
Exergoenvironomic modelling and performance assessment of selected gas turbine power plants
Authors: Oyedepo Sunday Olayinka , Fagbenle Richard Olayiwola , Adefila Samuel Sunday , Alam Md Mahbub
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This study aims to use an environomics method to assess the environmental impacts of selected gas turbine power plants in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, exergoenvironomic analysis has been carried out to investigate the environmental impact of selected gas turbine power plants in Nigeria from an exergetic point of view.

Findings

The exergy analysis reveals that the combustion chamber is the most exergy destructive component compared to other cycle components. The exergy destruction of this component can be reduced by increasing gas turbine inlet temperature (GTIT). The results of the study show that thermodynamic inefficiency is responsible for the environmental impact associated with gas turbine components. The study further shows that CO2 emissions and cost of environmental impact decrease with increasing GTIT.

Originality/value

The exergo-environomic parameters computed in this study are CO2 emission in kg per MWh of electricity generated, depletion number, sustainability index, cost flow rate of environmental impacts (Ċenv) in $/h and total cost rates of products (ĊTot) in $/hr. For the period considered, the CO2 emissions for the selected plants vary from 100.18 to 408.78 kgCO2/MWhm, while cost flow rate of environmental impacts varies from $40.18 /h to $276.97 /h and the total cost rates of products vary from $2935.69/h to $12,232.84/h. The depletion number and sustainability index vary from 0.69 to 0.84 and 1.20 to 1.44, respectively.
Stability analysis in prey–predator system with mixed functional response
Authors: Madhusudanan V. , Vijaya S.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to propose and analyse a two-prey–one-predator system with mixed functional response.

Design/methodology/approach

The predator exhibits Holling type IV functional response to one prey and Holling type I response to other. The occurrence of various positive equilibrium points with feasibility conditions are determined. The local and global stability of interior equilibrium points are examined. The boundedness of system is analysed. The sufficient conditions for persistence of the system is obtained by using Bendixson–Dulac criteria. Numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate the analytical findings.

Findings

The authors have derived the local and global stability condition of interior equilibrium of the system.

Originality/value

The authors observe that the critical values of some system parameter undergo Hopf bifurcation around some selective equilibrium. Hence, numerical simulations reveal the condition for the system to be stable and oscillatory.
Reprocessing and environmental desulphurization of sulphide mining waste from sphalerite flotation: case of Chaabet El Hamra mine, Algeria
Authors: Lamia Benabbes , Mouhamed Bounouala
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Tailings generated by sulphide ore processing at Chaabet El Hamra mine contain a variety of sulphide minerals such as pyrite, marcasite, sphalerite, galena and chalcopyrite with carbonated and siliceous gangue. It is well known that the presence of pyrite can cause environmental threats, in particular the acid mine drainage risk (AMD), if there is not enough neutralizing potential. Waste chemical analyses show that the content of total sulphur (S) is more than 9 per cent, which could be possible to separate the pyrite from other heavy minerals based on interfacial property of these minerals, because the pyrite contain the sulphur-rich fraction.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the possibility of waste reprocessing using froth flotation of sulphuric bulk and depression-heavy minerals. It is environmental desulphurization that removes much of the high S fraction.

Findings

The results obtained in terms of S recovery and residual S content are interesting after merely 12 min of flotation by addition of potassium amyl xanthate collector (140 g/t), pine oil frother (10 g/t) and activation with copper sulphate (CuSO4+; 60 g/t) and at optimum pH of 5.

Originality/value

It can be shown from waste treatment by flotation of pyrite depression sphalerite collects significant desulphurization in sulphur content is 19 per cent against 8 per cent in the initial release.
Discussion of the changes of hedgerow-orchard tree cross-sections at different latitudes
Authors: Liu Yongchao , Suo Meiqin
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This study aims to put forward a theory for the design of the crown sections in hedgerow orchards.

Design/methodology/approach

The fruit trees located at the north latitudes 0°-60° were selected for analysis. In detail, the study period focused on the fruit trees’ growing season, that is from the vernal equinox to the autumnal equinox. Certain fixed hedge-shaped angle with sufficient sunlight throughout the seasons was calculated under the condition of the lines from north to south. Meanwhile, the crown cross section perpendicular to the lines was analyzed in rectangular, trapezoidal and triangular forms.

Findings

Results showed that the adaptive geographic latitudes to different crown sections should be determined by the ratio analysis between various crown heights and spans.

Originality/value

The optimum parameters of the crown sections in different latitude areas can be determined by the theory proposed in this study.
Mathematical modeling of unbounded spaces using single-equation-based point saturated steam water spaces
Authors: Philip Jacob , Mangalvedekar Harivittal , Kazi Faruk
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Industries, especially power plants, using steam as power fluid employ many equipment and systems using saturated steam. Mathematical modeling of this saturated steam water space (SSWS) equipment is important for simulators catering to these industries and power plants. Single-equation-based modeling approach and its optimized version, mass factor–volume factor approach, are very efficient in modeling SSWS with bounded volumes, where the volume of the space is fixed. In unbounded volumes, the volume may be changing or is unbounded because of expansion, contraction or pressure control. The purpose of this paper is to propose a single equation based modeling approach for unbounded SSWS. Such unbounded volumes are encountered in coolant channels of pressurized heavy water reactor (PHWR)-type nuclear power plants (NPPs).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes an extension of a single-equation approach by considering a subsection of the volume as miniature Point SSWS. In the proposed Point SSWS, the total heat, mass and volume of the SSWS are delinked and overall density and heat density are introduced in place. With this extension, Point SSWS can be applied to unbounded volumes.

Findings

In this study, 392 coolant channels of proposed 680 MWe PHWR have been simulated to ascertain the overall coolant density when coolant boils partially on nuclear heating. The simulation results have been compared with simulation results available from previous researchers and it has been found that the values are in line with previous researchers with maximum deviation of 1.2 per cent.

Originality/value

From the simulation results and their low value of deviation, it is clear that point space approach can be effectively used in modeling Point SSWS. Moreover, theoretically, it has been proved that the density of homogenous steam–water mixture is dependent only on the bulk heat density and temperature of the mixture.
Consensus on the clinical management, screening‐to‐treat, and surveillance of Helicobacter pylori infection to improve gastric cancer control on a nationwide scale
Authors: Sheu Bor‐Shyang , Wu Ming‐Shiang , Chiu Cheng‐Tang , Lo Jing‐Chuan , Wu Deng‐Chyang , Liou Jyh‐Ming , Wu Chun‐Ying , Cheng Hsiu‐Chi , Lee Yi‐Chia , Hsu Ping‐I , Chang Chun‐Chao , Chang Wei‐Lun , Lin Jaw‐Town
Published: January 2017

Background

Previous international consensus statements provided general policies for the management of Helicobacter pylori infection. However, there are geographic differences in the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of H. pylori, and in the availability of medications and endoscopy. Thus, nationwide or regional consensus statements are needed to improve control of H. pylori infection and gastric cancer.

Materials and Methods

This consensus statement for management of H. pylori in Taiwan has three major sections: (1) optimal diagnosis and indications; (2) current treatment strategies; and (3) screening‐to‐treat and surveillance for control of gastric cancer. The literature review emphasized recent data for development of draft statements and determination of levels of evidence. Twenty‐five Taiwan experts conducted a consensus conference, by a modified Delphi process, to modify the draft statements. Consensus, defined as an agreement of least 80% of the experts, and recommendation grade were determined by anonymous voting.

Results

There were 24 consensus statements. Section 1 has seven statements on recommendations for the diagnosis and indications for treatment of H. pylori infection. Section 2 has 10 statements that provide an updated treatment algorithm for first‐line, second‐line, and third‐line regimens. Section 3 has seven statements regarding H. pylori eradication for reducing the risk of gastric cancer, with a cost‐benefit analysis. After H. pylori eradication, the consensus highlights the use of endoscopic surveillance and/or chemoprevention to further reduce the burden of gastric cancer.

Conclusions

This consensus statement has updated recommendations for improving the clinical management of H. pylori infection in areas such as Taiwan, which have high prevalence of H. pylori infection and gastric cancer.
Effect of prior deformation on microstructural development and Laves phase precipitation in high‐chromium stainless steel
Authors: HSIAO Z.‐W. , CHEN D. , KUO J.‐C. , LIN D.‐Y.
Published: January 2017

This study investigated the influence of deformation on precipitation behaviour and microstructure change during annealing. Here, the prior deformation of high‐chromium stainless steel was tensile deformation of 3%, 6% and 10%, and the specimens were then annealed at 700˚C for 10 h. The specimens were subsequently analyzed using backscattered electron image and electron backscattering diffraction measurements with SEM. Compared with the deformation microstructure, the grains revealed no preferred orientation. The precipitates of TiN and NbC were formed homogenously in the grain interior and at grain boundaries after annealing. Fine Laves phase precipitates were observed in grains and along subgrain boundaries as the deformation increased. Furthermore, the volume fraction of Laves phase increased, but the average particle diameter of precipitate was reduced as the deformation increased.
Elemental variability in the coralline alga Lithophyllum yemenense as an archive of past climate in the Gulf of Aden (NW Indian Ocean)
Authors: Caragnano Annalisa , Basso Daniela , Storz David , Jacob Dorrit E. , Ragazzola Federica , Benzoni Francesca , Dutrieux Eric
Published: January 2017

This study presents the first algal thallus (skeleton) archive of Asian monsoon strength and Red Sea influence in the Gulf of Aden. Mg/Ca, Li/Ca, and Ba/Ca were measured in Lithophyllum yemenense from Balhaf (Gulf of Aden) using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and Mg/Ca ratio oscillation was used to reconstruct the chronology (34 y). Oscillations of element rates corresponding to the algal growth between 1974 and 2008 were compared with recorded climate and oceanographic variability. During this period, sea surface temperatures (SST) in Balhaf recorded a warming trend of 0.55°C, corresponding to an increase in Mg and Li content in the algal thallus of 2.1 mol‐% and 1.87 μmol‐%, respectively. Lithophyllum yemenense recorded decadal SST variability by Li/Ca, and the influence of the Pacific El‐Niño Southern Oscillation on the NW Indian Ocean climate system by Ba/Ca. Additionally, algal Mg/Ca, Li/Ca, and Ba/Ca showed strong and significant correlations with All Indian Rainfall in the decadal range indicating that these proxies can be useful for tracking variability in the Indian monsoon system, possibly due to changes of the surface wind system, with deep water upwelling in summer, and a distinct seasonality.
Comparison of two long‐term gestagen regimens in the management of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis: A pilot study
Authors: Špaček Jiří , Kestřánek Jan , Jílek Petr , Leško Daniel , Plucnarová Silvie , Buchta Vladimír
Published: January 2017

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a hormonal‐dependent infection but in contrast to sporadic VVC, therapy of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) is still unsolved. Long‐term administration of medroxyprogesterone acetate was evaluated for the management of RVVC. Overall, 20 patients were treated with Depo‐Provera; 14 patients were treated with Provera. Gestagen therapy was evaluated based on visual analogue scale (VAS), the frequency of attacks, the side effects of gestagens and the consumption of antifungals. There was a reduced symptomatology in both of the groups and substantial reduction in antifungal drug consumption during the second year of gestagen use. Twenty‐four patients (70.6%) evaluated their condition regarding the vulvovaginal area as improvement (VAS decrease of 3‐5 points). Five patients (14.7%) mentioned minimal or no improvement. Further, a number of antifungal drug‐treated episodes dropped dramatically during the study period. Both regimes provided similar results, but five patients from the Depo‐Provera group had to withdraw from gestagen therapy. Gestagen supplementation ameliorated the quality of life for the majority of patients with RVVC and suggested a potential role in the management of this syndrome, even if beneficial effect was evident after longer application, and some patients met with side effects that led to an interruption of therapy.
Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion Integrated Screw Cages: Intrinsic Load Generation, Subsidence, and Torsional Stability
Authors: Assem Yusuf , Pelletier Matthew H. , Mobbs Ralph J. , Phan Kevin , Walsh William R.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To perform a repeatable idealized in vitro model to evaluate the effects of key design features and integrated screw fixation on unloaded surface engagement, subsidence, and torsional stability.

Methods

We evaluated four different stand‐alone anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) cages with two, three, and four screw designs. Polyurethane (saw‐bone) foam blocks were used to simulate the vertebral bone. Fuji Film was used to measure the contact footprint, average pressure, and load generated by fixating the cages with screws. Subsidence was tested by axially loading the constructs at 10 N/s to 400 N and torsional load was applied +/−1 Nm for 10 cycles to assess stability. Outcome measures included total subsidence and maximal torsional angle range.

Results

Cages 1, 2, and 4 were symmetrical and produced similar results in terms of contact footprint, average pressure, and load. The addition of integrated screws into the cage‐bone block construct demonstrated a clear trend towards decreased subsidence. Cage 2 with surface titanium angled ridges and a keel produced the greatest subsidence with and without screws, significantly more than all other cages (
P
< 0.05). Angular rotation was not significantly affected by the addition of screws (
P
< 0.066). A statistically significant correlation existed between subsidence and reduced angular rotation across all cage constructs (
P
= 0.018).

Conclusion

Each stand‐alone cage featured unique surface characteristics, which resulted in differing cage–foam interface engagement, influencing the subsidence and torsional angle. Increased subsidence significantly reduced the torsional angle across all cage constructs.
Implementation of a Pharmacist‐Led Patient‐Controlled Analgesia Dosing Service
Authors: Dezia Alen L. , Baccus Tim D. , Natavio Allycia M. , Conroy Sean M. , Hall Levi M.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The development and implementation of a pharmacist‐led patient‐controlled analgesia (PCA) dosing service in a large academic institution are described.

To improve pain management at our institution and expand pharmacy clinical services, a pharmacist‐led PCA dosing service was developed and implemented. The service is modeled after established antimicrobial and anticoagulation dosing services at our institution. A core group of pharmacists (service leaders) and a pain physician champion developed a policy and guideline and designed electronic medical record (EMR) tools to support the service. Pharmacists were trained by the service leaders to manage acute pain with fentanyl, hydromorphone, or morphine PCA therapy. Cultural and operational barriers to service implementation were identified and resolved.

Conclusion

After implementation of the pharmacist‐led PCA dosing service, pharmacists at our institution provide PCA pain management services as part of our pharmacy department's standard practice.
Assessing Nonlinear Dynamics of Central Bank Reaction Function: The Case of Mozambique
Authors: Nhapulo Gerson , Nicolau João
Published: January 2017

This paper sheds some light on the elements governing monetary policy‐making during the period 2000Q1–2015Q1 in Mozambique. We estimate a time‐varying Taylor‐type rule for the BM, using a Markov‐switching (MS) model and a Threshold model. The general finding is that the behaviour of the BM can be characterised by two regimes. In regime 1, only changes in inflation trigger a reaction by the monetary authority. This behaviour is prominent after the establishment of the monetary policy committee in 2007 (CPMO). In regime 2, the BM reacts aggressively both to cool off the economic activity and to curb inflationary pressures. Regime 2 occurred most frequently during 2000–2006, when the fiscal policy might have played an important role in output stabilization. After the establishment of the CPMO, regime 2 occurred in the context of a steep rise in fuel and food prices in 2007–2008 and in 2010. Both the MS model and the Threshold model show similar asymmetric effects. We find evidence that inflation is viewed more seriously by the monetary authorities when it is accompanied by a high output‐gap in the previous period, which triggers a more aggressive response from the monetary authorities.
The Rise, Fall, and Resurgence of Home Hemodialysis
Authors: Trinh Emilie , Chan Christopher T.
Published: January 2017

Home hemodialysis (HD) was first introduced in the 1960s with a rapid increase in its use due to inability of dialysis units to accommodate patient demand. A sharp decline was subsequently seen with expanding outpatient dialysis facilities and changes in reimbursement policies. In the last decade, with emerging reports of benefits with home HD and more user‐friendly equipment, there has been resurgence in home HD. However, home HD remains underutilized with considerable variations between and within countries. This paper will review the history of home HD, elaborate on its established benefits, identify some of the barriers in uptake of this modality and expand on potential strategies to overcome these barriers.
Using the eye of the camera to bare racism: A photovoice project
Authors: Sethi Bharati
Published: January 2017

INTRODUCTION: Researchers have well established that visible minorities experience discrimination in the labour market and racism at work; however, few studies have explored the experiences of immigrant visible minority women, especially those residing outside of large urban areas. The focus of this article is to explore participants’ experiences of discrimination and racism using photovoice methodology.METHODS: This Canadian study used an arts-based qualitative method in the form of a modified photovoice where 17 participants took photographs of their work and health experiences and discussed the meaning of their photographs and narratives in the interviews.FINDINGS: Results indicate that participants experienced discrimination in the labour market, and racism at work. In the absence of language, participants found the eye of the camera as an effective methodological tool to uncover and communicate their lived experiences of discrimination and racism.CONCLUSIONS: Social workers can utilise photovoice for exploring sensitive issues such as experiences of discrimination and racism in a safe context with marginalised populations. They prevent discrimination and racism in their communities.
Embodied interpretation: Assessing the knowledge produced through a dance-based inquiry
Authors: Seko Yukari , Van Katwyk Trish
Published: January 2017

INTRODUCTION: Although the field of social work has experienced an exponential increase in the use of arts-based methodology, the way in which knowledge shared through artful presentations is understood by audience members remains understudied. As arts-based inquiry often involves active co-construction of meanings between researchers, participants and audiences, it is crucial for social work researchers to scrutinise the process of meaning making by audience members. In this article, we explore how audience members make sense of research findings presented through improvisational dance and how the provision of information about the dance may influence viewer responses.METHODS: A personal experience with self-injury documented in a creative poem was represented through the performance of improvisational dance pieces and assessed by two groups of viewers, with and without knowledge of the topic of the dances. The viewers were prompted to interpret the dances by reflecting on the feelings, thoughts and perceptions they had while watching the performance. A thematic analysis was conducted to compare and contrast the responses of the two groupsFINDINGS: By comparing the interpretations of informed and uninformed viewers, we suggest that interpretation can be influenced by normative, socially constructed assumptions that hinder empathic and action-inspiring engagement.CONCLUSION: We conclude the article with a discussion of potential implications for social work research, practice and education.
Use of a glimpsing model to understand the performance of listeners with and without hearing loss in spatialized speech mixtures
Authors: Best Virginia , Mason Christine R. , Swaminathan Jayaganesh , Roverud Elin , Kidd Gerald
Published: January 2017

In many situations, listeners with sensorineural hearing loss demonstrate reduced spatial release from masking compared to listeners with normal hearing. This deficit is particularly evident in the “symmetric masker” paradigm in which competing talkers are located to either side of a central target talker. However, there is some evidence that reduced target audibility (rather than a spatial deficit per se) under conditions of spatial separation may contribute to the observed deficit. In this study a simple “glimpsing” model (applied separately to each ear) was used to isolate the target information that is potentially available in binaural speech mixtures. Intelligibility of these glimpsed stimuli was then measured directly. Differences between normally hearing and hearing-impaired listeners observed in the natural binaural condition persisted for the glimpsed condition, despite the fact that the task no longer required segregation or spatial processing. This result is consistent with the idea that the performance of listeners with hearing loss in the spatialized mixture was limited by their ability to identify the target speech based on sparse glimpses, possibly as a result of some of those glimpses being inaudible.
Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction associated with abdominal paracentesis
Authors: Turner Michael Patrick , Arndtz Sophie , MacFaul George
Published: January 2017

A 61-year-old man presented with accumulation of ascites secondary to alcoholic liver disease. He had an ascitic drain sited and 24 hours later he developed acute colonic pseudo-obstruction (ACPO). This is a rare condition previously associated with major surgery and severe sepsis. The patient did well with conservative management, and avoided the need for endoscopic decompression or surgical intervention. We believe that this is the first report of ACPO secondary to abdominal paracentesis.
Magnetic mixed hemimicelle solid-phase extraction based on mixed hemi-/ad-micelle SDS-coated magnetic nanoparticles Fe2-xAlxO3 (x = 0.4) for the fluorimetric determination of carvedilol in biological samples
Authors: Du Juanli , Wu Hao , Du Xiaohui , Zhao Zhimin , Zhao Xin , Shi Yating , Guo Xiaozhen , Du Liming
Published: January 2017

Mixed hemi-/ad-micelle SDS-coated magnetic nanoparticles (Fe2-xAlxO3 (x = 0.4)) were used as an efficient adsorbent for the extraction and preconcentration of carvedilol (CVD) based on magnetic mixed hemimicelle solid-phase extraction. The Fe2-xAlxO3 magnetic nanoparticles not only have better stability and resistance to acidity, as well as alkalinity, but also are easy to prepare, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly. Several parameters that affected the extraction efficiency were investigated, including the type and volume of desorption solvent, extraction and desorption times, pH of the solution, zeta potential, and amounts of adsorbent and surfactant. Under the optimized extraction conditions, the developed method showed good linearity (R2 = 0.9998) within the range of 0.02–2.7 ng mL−1, and the limit of detection was 0.009 ng mL−1. The spiked recoveries of CVD in urine and plasma samples ranged from 101.50% to 111.00%. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that a mixed hemi-/ad-micelle solid-phase extraction method based on magnetic separation and nanoparticles has been used as a simple and sensitive method for the monitoring of CVD in biological samples.
Synthesis and structures of [2n](2,7)naphthalenophanes (n = 2–4)
Authors: Ohtsuka Kenta , Cai Guangke , Fujita Kazuya , Miyoshi Hirokazu , Tobe Yoshito
Published: January 2017

Reductive coupling of 2,7-bis(bromomethyl)naphthalene using phenyllithium gave anti-[22](2,7)naphthalenophane, [23](2,7)naphthalenophane, and [24](2,7)naphthalenophane, the distribution of which was dependent on the reaction conditions. The structure of the first compound was established by X-ray crystallographic analysis. On the basis of the similarity between the NMR and UV spectra of [23](2,7)naphthalenophane with those reported for syn-[22](2,7)naphthalenophane, we conclude that the compound originally assigned to be syn-4 was in fact 6.
Spatiotemporal heterogeneity of larch budmoth outbreaks in the French Alps over the last 500 years
Authors: Saulnier M. , Roques A. , Guibal F. , Rozenberg P. , Saracco G. , Corona C. , Edouard J.-L.
Published: January 2017

In the subalpine forest ecosystems of the French Alps, European larch trees (Larix decidua Mill.) are periodically affected by outbreaks of a defoliating insect, the larch budmoth (Zeiraphera griseana (Hübner, 1799); LBM). To assess the long-term dynamics of LBM populations, we propose a spatiotemporal analysis of a long outbreak chronology reconstruction for the entire French Alps covering the period 1414–2009. This chronology was obtained by analyzing tree ring width (TRW) chronologies collected from 44 larch populations. The evidence of a latitudinal gradient in LBM is an original result that we have related to the “travelling waves” and “epicenter” theory. Wavelet analyses revealed a strong explicit continuous signal for periodicities of 4, 8, and 16 years throughout the entire 1500–2003 time series, except for a loss of power from 1690 to 1790 and since the early 1980s. We hypothesize that these abrupt changes could reflect a physiological response of LBM to past climatic variations. The spatial and temporal variability of LBM outbreaks and the propagation phenomenon in the French Alps highlighted by this study raises questions regarding its future dynamics in response to the expected climate change.
Partial restoration of chiral symmetry in hot and dense neutron matter
Authors: Holt Jeremy W. , Rockcliffe Keighley E.
Published: January 2017

We review efforts to describe the approach to chiral symmetry restoration in neutron matter from the low-energy realization of QCD, chiral effective field theory.
Iteratively Intervening with the “Most Difficult” Topics of an Algorithms and Complexity Course
Authors: Enström Emma , Kann Viggo
Published: January 2017

When compared to earlier programming and data structure experiences that our students might have, the perspective changes on computers and programming when introducing theoretical computer science into the picture. Underlying computational models need to be addressed, and mathematical tools employed, to understand the quality criteria of theoretical computer science. Focus shifts from doing to proving. Over several years, we have tried to make this perspective transition smoother for the students of a third-year mandatory algorithms, data structures, and computational complexity course. The concepts receiving extra attention in this work are NP-completeness, one of the most central concepts in computer science, and dynamic programming, an algorithm construction method that is powerful but somewhat unintuitive for some students.

The major difficulties that we attribute to NP-completeness are that the tasks look similar but have a different purpose than in algorithm construction exercises. Students do not immediately see the usefulness of the concept, and hence motivation could be one issue. One line of attacking NP-completeness has been to emphasize its algorithmic aspects using typical tools for teaching algorithms.

Some potential difficulties associated with dynamic programming are that the method is based on a known difficult concept—recursion—and that there are many ingredients in a dynamic programming solution to a problem.

For both dynamic programming and NP-completeness, we have invented several new activities and structured the teaching differently, forcing students to think and adopt a standpoint, and practice the concepts in programming assignments. Student surveys show that these activities are appreciated by the students, and our evaluations indicate that they have positive effects on learning. We believe that these activities could be useful in any similar course.

The approach to improving the course is action research, and the evaluation has been done using course surveys, self-efficacy surveys, rubrics-like grading protocols, and grades. We have also interviewed teaching assistants about their experiences.
Metabolic Reprogramming in Brain Tumors
Authors: Venneti Sriram , Thompson Craig B.
Published: January 2017

Next-generation sequencing has substantially enhanced our understanding of the genetics of primary brain tumors by uncovering several novel driver genetic alterations. How many of these genetic modifications contribute to the pathogenesis of brain tumors is not well understood. An exciting paradigm emerging in cancer biology is that oncogenes actively reprogram cellular metabolism to enable tumors to survive and proliferate. We discuss how some of these genetic alterations in brain tumors rewire metabolism. Furthermore, metabolic alterations directly impact epigenetics well beyond classical mechanisms of tumor pathogenesis. Metabolic reprogramming in brain tumors is also influenced by the tumor microenvironment contributing to drug resistance and tumor recurrence. Altered cancer metabolism can be leveraged to noninvasively image brain tumors, which facilitates improved diagnosis and the evaluation of treatment effectiveness. Many of these aspects of altered metabolism provide novel therapeutic opportunities to effectively treat primary brain tumors.
Boundedness for Commutators of Bilinearθ-Type Calderón-Zygmund Operators on Nonhomogeneous Metric Measure Spaces
Authors: Xie Rulong , Shu Lisheng , Sun Aiwen
Published: January 2017

Let(X,d,μ)be a nonhomogeneous metric measure space. In this paper, the boundedness for commutators generated by bilinearθ-type Calderón-Zygmund operators andRBMO(μ)functions on(X,d,μ)is obtained.
A Review on the Relationship between Aspirin and Bone Health
Authors: Chin Kok-Yong
Published: January 2017

Aspirin is a cyclooxygenase inhibitor commonly used in primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases and cancers. Its users are elderly population susceptible to osteoporosis. It also inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandin E2essential in bone remodeling. This prompts the question whether it can influence bone health among users. This review aimed to summarize the current literature on the use of aspirin on bone health. A literature search on experimental and clinical evidence on the effects of aspirin on bone health was performed using major scientific databases. In vitro studies showed that aspirin could enhance the survival of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, the progenitors of osteoblasts, and stimulate the differentiation of preosteoblasts. Aspirin also inhibited the nuclear factor kappa-B (NFκB) pathway and decreased the expression of receptor activator of NFκB ligand, thus suppressing the formation of osteoclast. Aspirin could prevent bone loss in animal models of osteoporosis. Despite a positive effect on bone mineral density, the limited human epidemiological studies revealed that aspirin could not reduce fracture risk. A study even suggested that the use of aspirin increased fracture risk. As a conclusion, aspirin may increase bone mineral density but its effect on fracture prevention is inconclusive. More data are needed to determine the effects of aspirin and bone health in human.
Setting Road Safety Targets in Cambodia: A Methodological Demonstration Using the Latent Risk Time Series Model
Authors: Commandeur Jacques J. F. , Wesemann Paul , Bijleveld Frits , Chhoun Voun , Sann Socheata
Published: January 2017

We present the methodology used for estimating forecasts for the number of road traffic fatalities in 2011–2020 in Cambodia based on observed developments in Cambodian road traffic fatalities and motor vehicle ownership in the years 1995–2009. Using the latent risk time series model baseline forecasts for the fatality risk were estimated for the years 2010–2020. These baseline forecasts were then used to obtain estimates for the future number of fatalities based on three scenarios for the future Cambodian growth in motor vehicle ownership: a low, a middle, and a high growth scenario. The middle growth scenario results in an expected death toll of approximately 3,200 in 2020. In 2010, it was therefore decided in Cambodia to set the target at a 50% reduction of this number or 1,600 fatalities in 2020. If it is possible to achieve this target by taking additional actions to improve road safety, then a total of 7,350 lives could be saved in Cambodia over the whole 2011–2020 period.
Improving Thin Strip Profile Using Work Roll Cross and Work Roll Shifting Methods in Cold Strip Rolling
Authors: Tibar Hasan , Jiang Zhengyi
Published: January 2017

The optimization of rolling parameters in order to achieve better strip shape and to reduce rolling force is a challenge in rolling practice. In this paper, thin strip asymmetrical rolling of aluminum at various speed ratios under lubricated condition has been investigated at various combinations of work rolls cross (WRC) angles and work rolls shifting (WRS) values. The effects of strip width, reduction, and rolling speed on strip shape taking WRC and WRS into consideration are discussed. Results show that strip profile improves significantly when the WRC angle is increased from 0° to 1°, with an associated reduction in rolling force. Increasing WRS value from 0 to 8 mm improves the strip profile as well but not as significantly as when WRC angle is increased. No significant improvement was found in strip shape when the strip width was increased. At higher reduction, the strip shape was improved; a decrease in the rolling force was also observed. A higher speed ratio was found to be effective only at a higher WRC angle. The effect of lubrication on the strip profile was significant. Results indicate that an optimum combination of WRC, WRS, reduction, width, and speed ratio under lubricated conditions can ensure an improved exit strip profile, reduce rolling force, and obtain a better quality strip.
Development and Validation of a PCR-ELISA for the Diagnosis of Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Infection byLeishmania (Leishmania) infantum
Authors: Medeiros Fernanda Alvarenga Cardoso , Gomes Luciana Inácia , Oliveira Edward , de Souza Carolina Senra Alves , Mourão Maria Vitória , Cota Gláucia Fernandes , Marques Letícia Helena dos Santos , Carneiro Mariângela , Rabello Ana
Published: January 2017

AkDNAPCR enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (kDNAPCR-ELISA) for the diagnosis of human visceral leishmaniasis (HVL) was developed. The detection limit of the reaction, precision measurements, and cut-off of thekDNAPCR-ELISA were defined in a proof-of-concept phase. A reference strain ofLeishmania (Leishmania) infantumand a bank of 14 peripheral blood samples from immunocompetent patients with VL were characterized using techniques considered gold standards, and 11 blood samples obtained from healthy individuals of an endemic area were also assessed. Phase II evaluation determined the performance of the assay in peripheral blood samples from 105 patients with VL (adults and children), 25 patients withLeishmania/HIV coinfection, 40 healthy individuals, and 33 asymptomatic individuals living in endemic areas. ThekDNAPCR-ELISA exhibited satisfactory precision, with a detection limit of 0.07 fg of DNA fromL.(L.) infantumand 1 parasite/mL blood. The overall sensitivity of the assay for all groups studied was 100% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 97.1–100%), and the specificity was 95% (95% CI: 83.5–98.6%). ThekDNAPCR-ELISA was shown to be a useful tool for VL symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals diagnosis and its use in endemic countries may help monitor control interventions.
Optimal Cut-Off Value of the Superior Articular Process Area as a Morphological Parameter to Predict Lumbar Foraminal Stenosis
Authors: Lim Tae-Ha , Choi Soo Il , Cho Hyung Rae , Kang Keum Nae , Rhyu Chang Joon , Chae Eun Young , Lim Young Su , Lee Yongsoo , Kim Young Uk
Published: January 2017

Background. We devised a new morphological parameter called the superior articular process area (SAPA) to evaluate the connection between lumbar foraminal stenosis (LFS) and the superior articular process. Objective. We hypothesized that the SAPA is an important morphologic parameter in the diagnosis of LFS. Methods. All patients over 60 years of age were included. Data regarding the SAPA were collected from 137 patients with LFS. A total of 167 control subjects underwent lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as part of a routine medical examination. We analyzed the cross-sectional area of the bone margin of the superior articular process at the level of L4-L5 facet joint in the axial plane. Results. The average SAPA was 96.3±13.6 mm2 in the control group and 128.1±17.2 mm2 in the LFS group. The LFS group was found to have significantly higher levels of SAPA (p<0.001) in comparison to the control group. In the LFS group, the optimal cut-off value was 112.1 mm2, with 84.4% sensitivity, 83.9% specificity, and AUC of 0.94 (95% CI: 0.91–0.96). Conclusions. Higher SAPA values were associated with a higher possibility of LFS. These results are important in the evaluation of patients with LFS.
Exosomes Derived from Human Pulmonary Artery Endothelial Cells Shift the Balance between Proliferation and Apoptosis of Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Zhao Lin , Luo Hui , Li Xiaohui , Li Tangzhiming , He Jingni , Qi Qiangqiang , Liu Yuwei , Yu Zaixin
Published: January 2017

Background: The overproliferation of pulmonary vascular cells is noted in pulmonary hypertension. The role of exosomes from pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAEC) in the proliferation and apoptosis of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMC) remains unclear. Methods: Exosomes were isolated and purified from the culture medium of PAEC using a commercial kit. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), hypoxia, and hydrogen peroxide were utilized to induce PAEC injury. Coculture of PAEC and PASMC was conducted using Transwell plates, and GW4869 was applied to inhibit exosome release. The proliferation and apoptosis level of PASMC was assayed by MTT assay, apoptosis staining, and cleaved caspase-3 immunoblotting. Plasma exosomes were isolated by differential ultracentrifugation. Results: LPS or hypoxia enhance exosome release from PAEC. Release of PAEC-derived exosomes positively correlates with LPS concentration. The coculture of LPS-disposed PAEC with PASMC leads to overproliferation and apoptosis resistance in PASMC, and the exosome inhibitor GW4869 can partly cancel out this effect. Exosomes derived from PAEC could be internalized into PASMC, and thus promote proliferation and induce apoptosis resistance in PASMC. Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension patients exhibit a higher circulation level of endothelium-derived exosomes. Conclusions: Inflammation and hypoxia could induce PAEC to release exosomes. PAEC- derived exosomes are involved in overproliferation and apoptosis resistance in PASMC, by which they may contribute to the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension.
Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Drainage of Intra-Abdominal Abscess after Gastric Perforation in a Patient Receiving Ramucirumab and Paclitaxel for Advanced Gastric Cancer
Authors: Mandai Koichiro , Shirakawa Atsushi , Uno Koji , Yasuda Kenjiro
Published: January 2017

Gastrointestinal perforation is a serious adverse event that occurs in approximately 1% of patients receiving ramucirumab and paclitaxel. A 67-year-old man with unresectable advanced gastric cancer was admitted to our hospital and treated with ramucirumab and paclitaxel. Gastric perforation occurred during the second cycle of chemotherapy. Although the patient’s condition improved without surgery, an abscess developed in the intra-abdominal fluid collection resulting from the perforation. We performed endoscopic ultrasound-guided abscess drainage. The patient improved and was discharged in satisfactory condition. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage is a treatment option for patients with intra-abdominal abscess following gastric perforation due to ramucirumab.