bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fuel Efficiency Optimization for a Divided Exhaust Period Regulated Two-Stage Downsized Spark Ignition Engine
Authors: Hu Bo , Akehurst Sam , Brace Chris , Lu Pengfei , Copeland Colin D. , Turner J. W. G.
Published: September 2015

In our previous paper, a new gas exchange concept termed divided exhaust period regulated two-stage (DEP R2S) system has been proposed. In this system, two exhaust valves in each cylinder are separately functioned with one valve feeding the exhaust mass flow into the high-pressure (HP) manifold, while the other valve evacuating the remaining mass flow directly into the low-pressure (LP) manifold. By adjusting the timing of the exhaust valves, the target boost can be controllable while improving the engine's pumping work and scavenging is attainable which results in better fuel efficiency from the gas exchange perspective. This paper will continue this study by adding an appropriate knock model to examine the benefits this concept could bring to the combustion phasing. The results at full load showed that under knock limited spark advance (KLSA) and fully optimized exhaust valve timing condition, the DEP R2S system benefited from lower pumping loss and better scavenging due to the reduced backpressure and improved pulsation interference despite suffering from reduced expansion ratio and expansion work. The combustion phasing was advanced across the engine speed which is mainly attributed to the reduced residual and the reduced requirement of gross indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP). The net brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) was observed to improve by up to 3% depending on the engine operating points. At part load, the DEP R2S system could be used as a mechanism to extend the “duration” of the exhaust valve. This will reduce the recompression effect of the exhaust residuals during the beginning and the end of the exhaust stroke compared to the original R2S model with late exhaust valve opening and early exhaust valve opening. In addition, increased internal exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) due to the increased overlap between the LP and the intake valve is also beneficial for the improved pumping mean effective pressure (PMEP) as the throttle can be further opened to reduce the corresponding throttling loss. The average net BSFC improvement is expected to be approximately 6–7%.
Fabrication of free-standing casein devices with micro- and nanostructured regular and bioimprinted surface features
Authors: Hashemi Azadeh , Mutreja Isha , Alkaisi Maan M. , Nock Volker , Azam Ali Mohammad
Published: September 2015

This work introduces a novel process for the fabrication of free-standing biodegradable casein devices with micro- and nanoscale regular and biomimetic surface features. Fabrication of intermediate polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) moulds from photoresist masters and liquid-casting of casein is used to transfer arbitrary geometrical shapes onto the surface of casein devices. Casein film composition was optimized for mechanical stability and pattern resolution. It was found that 15% casein in 0.2% NaOH solution, mixed with 10% glycerol, and cross-linked by addition of 2% glutaraldehyde produced the best pattern transfer results. Biomimetic cell-like shapes were transferred onto casein by use of bioimprinting of two-dimensional cell-cultures into PDMS. To demonstrate this process, C2C12 mouse myoblasts were cultured on microscope slides, replicated into PDMS and casein using liquid casting and drying. Recessed alignment grids were integrated into the microscope glass slides to facilitate direct comparison of original cells and their bioimprints on PDMS and casein. Optical microscopy and atomic force microscopy confirmed the transfer of micron-scale morphological features, such as cell outlines, nuclei and larger lamellipodia, into the casein surface. Nanoscale feature resolution in casein was found to be limited compared to the PDMS intermediate moulds, which was attributed to limited wetting of the aqueous casein solution. Strategies to increase resolution of the casein transfer step, as well as degradation behavior of the fabricated devices in cell culture media are currently underway. Substrates fabricated with this process have applications in stem cell engineering, regenerative medicine, and implantable devices.
Chasing the ghost particle: The long and winding road toward the detection of solar neutrinos
Authors: Leone Matteo , Robotti Nadia
Published: September 2015

One of the great achievements of neutrino physics was the discovery of solar neutrinos in 1968 through the Homestake underground experiment. This experiment exploited a radiochemical method based on the chlorine-argon process of inverse beta decay suggested by Bruno Pontecorvo in 1946 during his work in the classified Canadian nuclear project. In this paper, we study the emergence of the method. We focus on the role played by the problematic status of the neutrino and its antiparticle in its field of application and the influence exerted by the contemporary models of energy production in the sun. We also provide evidence that a first germ of this radiochemical method, in the form of a chlorine-sulfur process, was suggested in a paper published by Richard Crane in late 1930s.
Attending to lifelong learning skills through guided reflection in a physics class
Authors: Dounas-Frazer Dimitri R. , Reinholz Daniel L.
Published: September 2015

We describe a tool, the Guided Reflection Form (GRF), which was used to promote reflection in a modeling-based physics course. Each week, students completed a guided reflection and received feedback from their instructors. These activities were intended to help students connect past experiences to future improvements. We analyzed student reflections so that we could (1) provide insight into the reflection process itself, (2) describe common themes in student reflections, and (3) explore how student reflections change over time. Most students were able to use the GRF to reflect on their learning by narrating experiences, identifying areas for growth, and outlining plans for meeting their goals. Moreover, the themes present in student reflections provide insights into struggles commonly faced by physics students and how these struggles change over time. We discuss the design of the GRF in detail, so that others may use it as a tool to support student reflections.
Effects of an Uphill Marathon on Running Mechanics and Lower-Limb Muscle Fatigue
Authors: Giovanelli Nicola , Taboga Paolo , Rejc Enrico , Simunic Bostjan , Antonutto Guglielmo , Lazzer Stefano
Published: September 2015

Purpose:

To investigate the effects of an uphill marathon (43 km, 3063-m elevation gain) on running mechanics and neuromuscular fatigue in lower-limb muscles.

Methods:

Maximal mechanical power of lower limbs (MMP), temporal tensiomyographic (TMG) parameters, and muscle-belly displacement (Dm) were determined in the vastus lateralis muscle before and after the competition in 18 runners (age 42.8 ± 9.9 y, body mass 70.1 ± 7.3 kg, maximal oxygen uptake 55.5 ± 7.5 mL · kg−1 · min−1). Contact (tc) and aerial (ta) times, step frequency (f), and running velocity (v) were measured at 3, 14, and 30 km and after the finish line (POST). Peak vertical ground-reaction force (Fmax), vertical displacement of the center of mass (Δz), leg-length change (ΔL), and vertical (kvert) and leg (kleg) stiffness were calculated.

Results:

MMP was inversely related with race time (r = –.56, P = .016), tc (r = –.61, P = .008), and Δz (r = –.57, P = .012) and directly related with Fmax (r = .59, P = .010), ta (r = .48, P = .040), and kvert (r = .51, P = .027). In the fastest subgroup (n = 9) the following parameters were lower in POST (P < .05) than at km 3: ta (–14.1% ± 17.8%), Fmax (–6.2% ± 6.4%), kvert (–17.5% ± 17.2%), and kleg (–11.4% ± 10.9%). The slowest subgroup (n = 9) showed changes (P < .05) at km 30 and POST in Fmax (–5.5% ± 4.9% and –5.3% ± 4.1%), ta (–20.5% ± 16.2% and –21.5% ± 14.4%), tc (5.5% ± 7.5% and 3.2% ± 5.2%), kvert (–14.0% ± 12.8% and –11.8% ± 10.0%), and kleg (–8.9% ± 11.5% and –11.9% ± 12%). TMG temporal parameters decreased in all runners (–27.35% ± 18.0%, P < .001), while Dm increased (24.0% ± 35.0%, P = .005), showing lower-limb stiffness and higher muscle sensibility to the electrical stimulus.

Conclusions:

Greater MMP was related with smaller changes in running mechanics induced by fatigue. Thus, lower-limb power training could improve running performance in uphill marathons.
Repeated High-Intensity-Effort Activity in Relation to Tries Scored and Conceded During Rugby League Match Play
Authors: Gabbett Tim J. , Gahan Caleb W.
Published: September 2015

Purpose:

To examine the nature and frequency of rugby league repeated high-intensity-effort (RHIE) activity in relation to tries scored and conceded in successful and unsuccessful teams.

Participants:

185 semiprofessional rugby league players (mean ± SD age 23.7 ± 3.2 y) from 11 teams.

Methods:

Global positioning system (GPS) data were collected during 21 matches and analyzed for the total number of RHIE bouts, efforts per bout, duration of efforts, and recovery between efforts. Using notational analysis, a RHIE-bout frequency distribution, representing 0–60 s, 61–120 s, 121–180 s, 181–240 s, and 241–300 s before scoring and conceding a try, was established.

Results:

Over 50% of RHIE bouts occurred within 5 min of a try. Bottom-4 teams performed a greater proportion of bouts within 5 min of a try than top-4 teams (61.5% vs 48.2%, effect size, ES = 0.69 ± 0.28, P = .0001). Top-4 teams performed a greater number of RHIE bouts per conceded try (3.0 ± 2.1 vs 1.6 ± 0.7, ES = 0.74 ± 0.51, P < .05), while bottom-4 teams performed a greater number of RHIE bouts per try scored (3.6 ± 2.5 vs 2.1 ± 1.7, ES = 0.70 ± 0.71, P = .10).

Conclusion:

The majority of rugby league RHIE bouts occur at critical periods during match play. Successful rugby league teams perform more RHIE bouts before conceding tries, while unsuccessful teams perform more bouts before scoring tries. These findings demonstrate that unsuccessful teams are required to work harder to score tries while successful teams work harder to prevent tries.
Centrifuge modeling of shallow embedded foundations subjected to reverse fault rupture
Authors: Ashtiani Mehdi , Ghalandarzadeh Abbas , Towhata Ikuo
Published: September 2015

Although the performance of surface, piled, and caisson foundations has been investigated against a large tectonic dislocation from a dip-slip fault, to date, the embedment depth has not been clearly considered on the behavior of shallow foundations subjected to dip-slip faulting. This paper presents a series of centrifuge model tests to investigate the effects of foundation embedment depth and contact pressure on the interaction of reverse faults and shallow foundations embedded at a depth of D. The effect of embedment depth on the behavior of a foundation was observed by comparing the results of the embedded foundation tests with those of surface foundation tests. The depth of the embedment, acting as a kinematic constraint, prevents the occurrence of sliding at the foundation–soil interface and consequently leads to significant foundation rotation and translation. Moreover, embedding the foundation causes the mechanism of the fault rupture – foundation interaction to change. The effect of contact pressure on the interaction of the fault rupture and the embedded foundations depends on the foundation position relative to the fault. In addition to the propagation of fault ruptures through the soil layer, passive failure wedges primarily occurred on both sides of the embedded foundations because of their translation and rotation, thereby imposing unfavorable effects on the adjacent structures.
A multilocus comparative study of dispersal in three codistributed demersal sharks from eastern Australia
Authors: Corrigan Shannon , Huveneers Charlie , Stow Adam , Beheregaray Luciano B.
Published: September 2015

Demersal elasmobranchs are ecologically important mesopredators but little is known about their population connectivity or dispersal patterns. Here we use a comparative approach based on mitochondrial DNA and nuclear amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers to examine spatial genetic structure and dispersal in three closely related demersal elasmobranchs from eastern Australia: Orectolobus halei, Orectolobus maculatus, and Orectolobus ornatus. We found evidence of significant spatial genetic structure, possibly indicating regional philopatry in wobbegongs. The molecular data also indicate that dispersal in wobbegongs may be sex-biased. This represents the first genetic study of dispersal and population connectivity in codistributed demersal sharks. It provides insights into the ecology of dispersal behaviours with implications for conservation management of demersal species.
Variation of the fundamental constants over the cosmological time: veracity of Dirac’s intriguing hypothesis
Authors: Nassif Cláudio , de Faria A.C. Amaro
Published: September 2015

We investigate how the universal constants, including the fine structure constant, have varied since the early universe close to the Planck energy scale (EP ∼ 1019 GeV) and, thus, how they have evolved over the cosmological time related to the temperature of the expanding universe. According to a previous paper (Nassif and Amaro de Faria, Jr. Phys. Rev. D, 86, 027703 (2012). doi:10.1103/PhysRevD.86.027703), we have shown that the speed of light was much higher close to the Planck scale. In the present work, we will go further, first by showing that both the Planck constant and the electron charge were also too large in the early universe. However, we conclude that the fine structure constant (α ≅ 1/137) has remained invariant with the age and temperature of the universe, which is in agreement with laboratory tests and some observational data. Furthermore, we will obtain the divergence of the electron (or proton) mass and also the gravitational constant (G) at the Planck scale. Thus, we will be able to verify the veracity of Dirac’s belief about the existence of “coincidences” between dimensionless ratios of subatomic and cosmological quantities, leading to a variation of G with time, that is, the ratio of the electrostatic to gravitational forces between an electron and a proton (∼1041) is roughly equal to the age of the universe divided by an elementary time constant, so that the strength of gravity, as determined by G, must vary inversely with time in the approximation of lower temperature or for times very far from the early period, to compensate for the time-variation of the Hubble parameter (H ∼ t−1). In short, we will show the validity of Dirac’s hypothesis only for times very far from the early period or T ≪ TP (∼1032 K).
THE LAW OF ONE PRICE IN CHINESE FACTOR MARKETS
Authors: ZAX JEFFREY S. , HE YIN
Published: September 2015

This paper investigates whether Chinese factor markets became more integrated in the period around World Trade Organization (WTO) accession. This would have required reductions in factor price dispersion. However, prices for 18 agricultural factors between 1998 and 2001 and for 118 industrial factors between 1999 and 2002 varied significantly across 36 cities. Variation declined temporarily for industrial factors, but not for agricultural factors. Sixteen factors displayed many city-specific price components, suggesting that they may have been subject to domestic trade restrictions. Idiosyncratic prices for agricultural factors were concentrated in two cities. However, most cities had idiosyncratic prices for at least some industrial factors.
Possible ways to synchronize phase dynamics in intrinsic Josephson junctions for terahertz radiation
Authors: Liu Feng , Hu Xiao
Published: September 2015

Coherent terahertz (THz) radiations based on intrinsic Josephson junctions (IJJs) from a Bi2Sr2CaCu2O[Formula: see text] (BSCCO) mesa under a bias voltage were observed in 2007. Later on, a novel [Formula: see text] phase kink state was proposed which can explain the key experimental results. However, how to drive the system into the [Formula: see text] phase kink state efficiently still remains an open problem. In this work, we propose several ways to synchronize the system to the [Formula: see text] phase kink state. We start from random and typical regular initial phase configurations. It is found that starting from some initial phase configurations, the system can be driven efficiently into the [Formula: see text] phase kink state. The time spent before entering the [Formula: see text] phase kink states for these initial phase configurations is shorter when the initial phase configuration is further away from the uniform phase configuration.
Analyzing trip cost allowing late arrival under car-following model
Authors: Tang Tie-Qiao , Yu Qiang , Yang Shi-Chun , Ding Chuan
Published: September 2015

In this paper, we use car-following model to explore each commuter’s trip cost and the system’s total trip cost in the commuter’s system allowing late arrival. The numerical results show that each commuter’s trip cost and the system’s total trip cost are related to each commuter’s time headway at the origin and the proportion of the commuters’ late arrival, but the system’s total trip cost has the minimum value that is irrelevant to the proportion of the commuters’ late arrival.
An Efficient Method for Computing a Bayesian Mixture of Feature-Based Models
Authors: Jalalirad Amir , Tjalkens Tjalling
Published: September 2015

We describe a computationally efficient method to produce a specific Bayesian mixture of all the models in a finite set of feature-based models that assign a probability to the observed data set. Special attention is given to the bound on the regret of using the mixture instead of the best model in the set. It is proven theoretically and verified through synthetic data that this bound is relatively tight. Comparing the workload of the proposed method with the direct implementation of the Bayesian mixture shows an almost exponential improvement of computing time.
Mathematics, complexity and multiscale features of large systems of self-propelled particles
Authors: Bellomo N. , Brezzi F.
Published: September 2015

This issue is devoted to complex systems in life sciences. Some perspective ideas on possible objectives of future research are extracted from the contents of this issue and brought to the reader’s attention. The final ambitious aim is the development of a mathematical theory for complex living systems.
Continuum model for linked fibers with alignment interactions
Authors: Degond Pierre , Delebecque Fanny , Peurichard Diane
Published: September 2015

We introduce an individual-based model for fiber elements having the ability to cross-link or unlink each other and to align with each other at the cross links. We first formally derive a kinetic model for the fiber and cross-links distribution functions. We then consider the fast linking/unlinking regime in which the model can be reduced to the fiber distribution function only and investigate its diffusion limit. The resulting macroscopic model consists of a system of nonlinear diffusion equations for the fiber density and mean orientation. In the case of a homogeneous fiber density, we show that the model is elliptic.
Uniqueness and well-ordering of emergent phase-locked states for the Kuramoto model with frustration and inertia
Authors: Li Zhuchun , Ha Seung-Yeal
Published: September 2015

We discuss the uniqueness and well-ordering property of phase-locked states emerged from some admissible class of initial configurations for the Kuramoto model under the effect of frustration and inertia. Our results rely on the nonlinear stability and structure of phase-locked states for the Kuramoto model. When the coupling strength is sufficiently large and the diameter of initial phase configuration is sufficiently small, we show that the emergent phase configurations are stable in [Formula: see text]-norm with respect to initial configurations and they tend to the unique collision-free phase-locked state up to rotation. Moreover, we verify that the geometric shape of the emergent phase-locked state is invariant under the effect of inertia. We provide several numerical examples and compare them with our analytical results.
The Use of Composite Tissue Spare Parts to Restore Tripod Hand Function in Post-Traumatic and Congenital Hand Deficiency
Authors: Kumar Bhaskaranand , Bhat Anil Keshavamurthy , Acharya Ashwath Madhusudan
Published: September 2015

The principle aim in complex defects in hand is to restore a functioning tripod pinch. Among the various options, the use of locally available spare parts offers to improve both functions and cosmetics. 10 patients underwent surgeries to restore tripod pinch using this concept of spare parts. Four of them were children with congenital differences and the rest were adults with post traumatic defects. Eight of them underwent on-top plasty out of which four underwent an island pedicled transfer of phalanges and the rest involved distraction lengthening and transfer of metacarpals. One patient underwent a vascularized tenocutaneous joint transfer and another, a non-vascularized metacarpal transfer. At last follow up, eight of them were using hand with tripod pinch and one, using a lateral pinch. A carefully planned use of local tissues as spare part results in satisfactory outcome without the need for additional graft material in hands with absent or poor function.
Wrist Septic Arthritis: An 11 Year Review
Authors: Yap Robert Tze Jin , Tay Shian Chao
Published: September 2015

Background: This report utilizes 11 years (2003-2013) of clinical records of patients for a retrospective evaluation of the effectiveness of various combinations of diagnostic methods, treatment options and surgical procedures to try to determine the optimal combinations to improve the rate of success for the treatment of septic wrist arthritis.

Methods: Analysis of records of 40 patients treated for septic wrist arthritis in our hospital involving records of physical examination, full blood analysis, biochemical, microbial profiles, type of surgical intervention, length of stay, number of surgical interventions to resolution and the rate of morbidity and mortality. The patients were subdivided into 2 groups, consisting of 6 (mortality) in one group and 34 (non-mortality) in the other. The various parameters as listed above were compared for differences. The patient records included those from immunocompromised elderly patients, with other existing medical complications such as gout, pseudogout, cellulitis and arthritic flare that made accurate diagnosis of septic wrist arthritis challenging.

Results: There is a trend showing better success in the treatment of septic wrist arthritis among patients without co-morbid medical problems. Due to the unavoidable delays in microbial identification, it was noted that escalation of antibiotics should be adopted especially for the immunocompromised patients.

Conclusions: Staphylococcus aureus, the most common microbial pathogen in our findings, point to the need to adopt a lower threshold for escalation of antibiotics for immunocompromised patients with slow reversal of infection in order to reduce morbidity, mortality, number of surgeries and length of post-operative stay.
Dupuytren’s Contracture: A Bibliometric Study of the Most Cited Papers
Authors: Joyce Cormac Weekes , Joyce Kenneth Mary , Rahmani George , Carroll Sean Michael , Kelly Jack Laurence , Regan Padraic James
Published: September 2015

The literature on Dupuytren’s contracture is vast yet little information is known as to which papers have been the most influential. The purpose of this study was to identify the 50 most cited papers on Dupuytren’s contracture and perform a citation analysis. Utilizing the Web of Science™, 23 surgical, medical, plastic and hand surgery journals were searched for papers on Dupuytren’s contracture. Resulting articles were ranked in order of times cited and each paper was analyzed for article-type, year of publication, country of origin, institution and level of evidence. The 50 most cited articles represent many important landmarks in Dupuytren’s treatment and contain several seminal works by experts in the field. Whilst the top 50 list highlights the important papers on the condition, they certainly do not provide information about the quality of the evidence of the research, as most papers presented level 4 or 5 evidence.
Characteristics of Fingertip Injuries in Children in Singapore
Authors: Satku Mala , Puhaindran Mark Edward , Chong Alphonsus Khin Sze
Published: September 2015

Fingertip injuries are common in children, with varying degrees of severity. However, there is limited epidemiological information in the literature. An understanding of the characteristics of these injuries can be used as a basis to prevent such injuries. Epidemiological data was gathered through a retrospective review of all fingertip injuries affecting children, that presented to our department. There were 202 children with 234 injured fingertips in a period of 36 months. Most children were boys and most children injured their left hand. The mode age affected was 2 years. Accidental crush injuries in doors was the most common cause of fingertip injuries in children. An unexpectedly high number of children have fingertip injuries, with many requiring surgical treatment. Safety awareness and prevention of door crush injuries could reduce a large number of fingertip injuries in young children.
Thumb Carpometacarpal Joint Stabilization in Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome - Case Report
Authors: Breahna Anca Nicoleta , Meads Bryce Maurice
Published: September 2015

We report the case of an 18-years-old patient with thumb carpometacarpal ligament laxity due to Ehlers-Danlos syndrome who was treated with trapezial opening wedge osteotomy combined with volar ligaments reconstruction. Two years postoperatively she is pain free and the thumb carpometacarpal joint is stable.
Surgical Repair with External Fixation of Epiphyseal Fractures of the Proximal Phalanges of Three Fingers: A Case Report
Authors: Morisawa Yasushi , Takayama Shinichiro , Sato Kazuki
Published: September 2015

A 13-year-old girl sustained epiphyseal fractures of the proximal phalanges of the left index, middle, and ring fingers. Though manual reduction of the 3 fingers was possible, it was difficult to maintain the reduction due to severe instability of the middle and ring fingers, and closed reduction with external fixation was performed. At 4 years post-injury, the patient had no impairment of daily activities. The use of external fixation (1) causes no injury to the epiphyseal cartilage, (2) enables accurate reduction and maintenance of reduction, (3) is technically easier than pinning, (4) enables earlier range of motion (ROM) exercises of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints of the externally fixated and other fingers, and (5) allows repeated fine adjustments after reduction. External fixation is an option for the treatment of children with highly unstable epiphyseal fractures of the proximal phalanges.
Cell-Enriched Lipoaspirate Arthroplasty: A Novel Approach to First Carpometacarpal Joint Arthritis
Authors: Bohr Stefan , Rennekampff Hans Oliver , Pallua Norbert
Published: September 2015

We report a novel, minimal invasive technique for the treatment of symptomatic arthritis of the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint of the thumb, here termed Cell-Enriched Liposaspirate Arthroplasty (CELA). For CELA, autologous fat tissue was harvested using standard liposuction technique followed by an extra-corporal cellular enrichment step. Finally, 1 ml of cell-enriched lipoaspirate was injected into the CMC-joint. Following CELA, the treated patient became pain free within five weeks with a follow-up of 12 months. We conclude that CELA performed on selected cases of arthritis of finger joints such as the basal joint of the thumb has the potential to greatly reduce or delay the necessity for more invasive procedures which tend to improve symptoms of pain at the cost of grip strength and range-of-motion.
Bifid Median Nerve - A Case Report
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamed , Hattori Yasunori , Doi Kazuteru , Sakamoto Sotetsu , Madura Tomas
Published: September 2015

A wide variety of anatomic variations of the median nerve at wrist have been reported and the awareness of these variations are essential for the surgeon treating carpal tunnel pathologies to avoid inadvertent injury to the nerve during surgery. We report a rare case of bifid median nerve accompanied by a persistent median artery found incidentally in a patient who underwent flexor tendon reconstruction for subcutaneous tendon rupture. The current literature regarding the anomaly is reviewed and surgically relevant aspects are discussed.
The Bishop–Jones relation and Hausdorff geometry of convex-cobounded limit sets in infinite-dimensional hyperbolic space
Authors: Das Tushar , Stratmann Bernd O. , Urbański Mariusz
Published: September 2015

We generalize the mass redistribution principle and apply it to prove the Bishop–Jones relation for limit sets of metrically proper isometric actions on real infinite-dimensional hyperbolic space. We also show that the Hausdorff and packing measures on the limit sets of convex-cobounded groups are finite and positive and coincide with the conformal Patterson measure, up to a multiplicative constant.
Periodic wavelet descriptor of plant leaf and its application in botany
Authors: Zeng Qing-Mao , Zhu Tong-Lin , Zhuang Xue-Ying , Zheng Ming-Xuan
Published: September 2015

Leaf is one of the most important organs of plant. Leaf contour or outline, usually a closed curve, is a fundamental morphological feature of leaf in botanical research. In this paper, a novel shape descriptor based on periodic wavelet series and leaf contour is presented, which we name as Periodic Wavelet Descriptor (PWD). The PWD of a leaf actually expresses the leaf contour in a vector form. Consequently, the PWD of a leaf has a wide range in practical applications, such as leaf modeling, plant species identification and classification, etc. In this work, the plant species identification and the leaf contour reconstruction, as two practical applications, are discussed to elaborate how to employ the PWD of a plant leaf in botanical research.
Asymptotics for the partial fractions of the restricted partition generating function I
Authors: O’Sullivan Cormac
Published: September 2015

The generating function for [Formula: see text], the number of partitions of [Formula: see text] into at most [Formula: see text] parts, may be written as a product of [Formula: see text] factors. We find the behavior of coefficients in the partial fraction decomposition of this product as [Formula: see text] by applying the saddle-point method, where the saddle-point we need is associated to a zero of the analytically continued dilogarithm. Our main result disproves a conjecture of Rademacher.
Combinatorial proof of a partial theta function identity of Warnaar
Authors: Ji Kathy Q. , Kim Byungchan , Kim Jang Soo
Published: September 2015

By constructing a sign-reversing involution, we prove Warnaar’s identity involving a partial theta function, which plays many important roles in the study of asymptotic behaviors and quantum modularities in number theory. We also obtain an Euler-like theorem for a certain kind of unimodal sequences from Warnaar’s identity.
Red Palm Oil Attenuates Lead Acetate Induced Testicular Damage in Adult Male Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Jegede A. I. , Offor U. , Azu O. O. , Akinloye O.
Published: September 2015

To study the protective effect of Red Palm Oil (RPO) on testicular damage induced by administration of lead acetate on male Sprague-Dawley rats, 28 rats divided into four groups of 7 animals each were used. They were administered orally with RPO (1 mL and 2 mL) and lead acetate (i.p.) 6 mg/kg body weight/day, respectively. Treatment was conducted for 8 weeks, and 24 hrs after the last treatment the rats were sacrificed using cervical dislocation. Sperms collected from epididymis were used for seminal fluid analyses; while the testes sample was used for ROS and oxidative enzyme activities assessment. Statistical analysis was carried out using GraphPad Prism 5.02 statistical analysis package. Administration of lead acetate increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) significantly (p<0.05) as evidenced by the elevated value of H2O2and LPO and decreased GSH level. Also there was reduced epididymal sperm count, poor grade of sperm motility, and lower percentage of normal sperm morphology significantly. Coadministration with RPO, however, has a protective effect against lead toxicity by decreasing H2O2production, increased GSH level, and increased sperm qualities especially. This shows that RPO has a potential to attenuate the toxic effect of lead on testicular cells preventing possible resultant male infertility.
Comorbidity of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Schizophrenia in an Adolescent
Authors: Rosli Ahmad Nabil Md. , Wan Ismail Wan Salwina
Published: September 2015

We report a case of a girl with a history of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) subsequently exhibiting psychosis. She never attained remission since the outset. Initially she seemed to be resistant to most antipsychotics, namely, risperidone, haloperidol, paliperidone, quetiapine, and clozapine. However, she later responded remarkably better to risperidone after it was reintroduced for the second time. Recognizing and understanding the various pathogenesis of OCD or obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCS) in schizophrenia are vital in laying out plan to manage the patient effectively.
Improvement in Long-Term Memory following Chronic Administration ofEryngium planumRoot Extract in Scopolamine Model: Behavioral and Molecular Study
Authors: Ozarowski Marcin , Thiem Barbara , Mikolajczak Przemyslaw L. , Piasecka Anna , Kachlicki Piotr , Szulc Michal , Kaminska Ewa , Bogacz Anna , Kujawski Radoslaw , Bartkowiak-Wieczorek Joanna , Kujawska Malgorzata , Jodynis-Liebert Jadwiga , Budzianowski Jaromir , Kędziora Izabela , Seremak-Mrozikiewicz Agnieszka , Czerny Boguslaw , Bobkiewicz-Kozłowska Teresa
Published: September 2015

Eryngium planumL. (EP) is as a rare medicinal plant with a lot of potentials as pharmaceutical crops. The aim of our study was to assess the effect of subchronic (28-fold) administration of a 70% ethanol extract of EP roots (200 mg/kg, p.o.) on behavioral and cognitive responses in Wistar rats linked with acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), and beta-secretase (BACE-1) mRNA levels and AChE and BuChE activities in the hippocampus and frontal cortex. On the last day of experiment, 30 min after the last dose of EP or Huperzine A (HU), scopolamine (SC) was given at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg b.w. intraperitoneally. The results of a passive avoidance test showed an improvement in long-term memory produced by the EP extract in both scopolamine-induced rats and control group. EP caused an insignificant inhibition of AChE and BuChE activities in the frontal cortex and the hippocampus. EP decreased mRNA AChE, BuChE, and BACE-1 levels, especially in the cortex. Our results suggest that the EP extract led to the improvement of the long-term memory in rats coupled with total saponin content. The mechanism of EP action is probably complicated, since HPLC-MS analysis showed 64 chemical compounds (phenolics, saponins) in the extract of EP roots.
The Association between Patient-Reported Pain and Doctors’ Language Proficiency in Clinical Practice
Authors: Mustajoki Marianne , Forsén Tom , Kauppila Timo
Published: September 2015

Patients’ limited literacy and language fluency of different kinds cause them problems in navigating the medical interview. However, it is not known how physicians’ native language skills affect the reported intensity of pain among Finnish emergency patients. Data were collected with two consecutive questionnaires in 16 healthcare centres and outpatient departments along the Finnish coast. Swedish and Finnish speaking 18–65-year-old emergency patients were eligible for this study. Our patients were predominantly Finnish speakers. Patient-rated poor language skills in Finnish among the physicians in ED setting increased statistically significantly pain reported by the Finnish speaking patients and their dissatisfaction with the health service. These patients were also less motivated to adhere to the instructions given by their physician. Patients speaking various languages reported less degree of pain. Foreign physicians’ poor language proficiency in Finnish was expected to explain only some of the patients’ pain experience. Physicians’ good native language skills may help to reduce pain experience. Despite concordant language communication, other unknown barriers in the interaction might reduce the magnitude of pain reported.
Corrosion Behaviour of a Silane Protective Coating for NdFeB Magnets in Dentistry
Authors: Calabrese Luigi , Caprì A. , Fabiano F. , Bonaccorsi L. , Borsellino C. , Proverbio Edoardo
Published: September 2015

The corrosion behavior of coated and uncoated Ni/Cu/Ni rare earth magnets was assessed at increasing steps with a multilayering silanization procedure. Magnets’ durability was analyzed in Fusayama synthetic saliva solution in order to evaluate their application in dental field. Corrosion performance was evaluated by using polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in synthetic saliva solution up to 72 hours of continuous immersion. The results show that the addition of silane layers significantly improved anticorrosion properties. The coating and aging effects, in synthetic saliva solution, on magnetic field were evaluated by means of cyclic force-displacement curves.
Sporadic Multifocal Venous Malformations of the Head and Neck
Authors: Amato Michael V. , Patel Neha A. , Hu Shirley , Pantelides Harry
Published: September 2015

Objective. To report a case of unusually widespread sporadic venous malformations of the head and neck associated with normal D-dimer levels and, due to the protean clinical manifestations and increased risk of coagulopathy of these lesions, to review their diagnosis and clinical management.Case Report. A 25-year-old man presented with a one-year history of intermittent right-sided neck swelling and tongue swelling. Physical exam revealed additional lesions present throughout the head and neck. There was no family history suggestive of heritable vascular malformations. Radiographic imaging demonstrated 15 lesions located in various tissue layers consistent with venous malformations. A coagulation screen showed a normal prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, international normalized ratio, D-dimer level, and fibrinogen level. It was determined that the patient was not at increased risk for intraoperative coagulopathy and preoperative heparin administration would not be necessary. The patient’s buccal and tongue lesions were subsequently excised with no complications. The patient also underwent sclerotherapy evaluation for his neck mass.Conclusion. This case describes a unique presentation of sporadic multifocal venous malformations. It also emphasizes the importance of prompt diagnosis and workup when multiple venous malformations are present to prevent morbidity during surgical excision secondary to intravascular coagulopathy.
Effect of Reynolds Number on Aerodynamics of Airfoil with Gurney Flap
Authors: Jain Shubham , Sitaram Nekkanti , Krishnaswamy Sriram
Published: September 2015

Steady state, two-dimensional computational investigations performed on NACA 0012 airfoil to analyze the effect of variation in Reynolds number on the aerodynamics of the airfoil without and with a Gurney flap of height of 3% chord are presented in this paper. RANS based one-equation Spalart-Allmaras model is used for the computations. Both lift and drag coefficients increase with Gurney flap compared to those without Gurney flap at all Reynolds numbers at all angles of attack. The zero lift angle of attack seems to become more negative as Reynolds number increases due to effective increase of the airfoil camber. However the stall angle of attack decreased by 2° for the airfoil with Gurney flap. Lift coefficient decreases rapidly and drag coefficient increases rapidly when Reynolds number is decreased below critical range. This occurs due to change in flow pattern near Gurney flap at low Reynolds numbers.
Determination of Metal Contents of Various Fibers Used in Textile Industry by MP-AES
Authors: Sungur Şana , Gülmez Fatih
Published: September 2015

The concentrations of metals (Al, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Tl, and Zn) in various textile fibers (cotton, acrylic, polyester, nylon, viscose, and polypropylene) of different colors (red, white, green, blue, yellow, orange, black, brown, purple, pink, navy, burgundy, beige, and grey) were determined by microwave plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (MP-AES). Textile fibers were collected from the various textile plants in Gaziantep-Kahramanmaraş, Turkey. Heavy metals concentrations in all examined textile fibers after wet digestion were found to be high, whereas in the artificial sweat extract they were low. The only lead concentrations in textile fibers analyzed after extraction in the artificial sweat solution were found higher than limit values given by Oeko-Tex.
A Novel and Alternative Treatment Method for Diabetic Heel Ulceration Exposing the Calcaneus Which Is Not Suitable for Flap Surgery: Vacuum Assisted Sandwich Dermal Matrix
Authors: Bingol Ugur A. , Cinar Can , Arslan Hakan , Altındas Muzaffer
Published: September 2015

Background. Currently, free flaps and pedicled flaps are the first treatment choices for large heel ulcer reconstruction. However, flap reconstruction of heel ulcerations cannot be performed in all diabetics especially with concurrent severe peripheral vascular disease because of higher flap failure rate. In recent years, the use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) has emerged as an alternative treatment option for extremity ulcers.Methods. We present 13 diabetic patients with a large heel ulceration exposing the calcaneus, who were not eligible for flap surgery due to the presence of only one patent artery of trifurcation. These cases were treated with the vacuum assisted sandwich dermal matrix (VASDEM) method.Results. None of the patients required amputation. Skin grafting was successful in ten patients. Although partial losses were observed in three patients, they were healed spontaneously without surgical interventions. During the follow-up period none of the patients developed ulceration on the treatment area. All patients maintained their preoperative ambulatory ability.Conclusion. VASDEM is a novel method offering opportunity for treatment before proceeding to amputation in diabetic heel ulceration exposing the calcaneus which is not suitable for flap surgery. It also has the potential to close wounds of all sizes independent of the vessel status and wound size in selected diabetic patients.
Antiviral Potential of Algae Polysaccharides Isolated from Marine Sources: A Review
Authors: Ahmadi Azin , Zorofchian Moghadamtousi Soheil , Abubakar Sazaly , Zandi Keivan
Published: September 2015

From food to fertilizer, algal derived products are largely employed in assorted industries, including agricultural, biomedical, food, and pharmaceutical industries. Among different chemical compositions isolated from algae, polysaccharides are the most well-established compounds, which were subjected to a variety of studies due to extensive bioactivities. Over the past few decades, the promising results for antiviral potential of algae-derived polysaccharides have advocated them as inordinate candidates for pharmaceutical research. Numerous studies have isolated various algal polysaccharides possessing antiviral activities, including carrageenan, alginate, fucan, laminaran, and naviculan. In addition, different mechanisms of action have been reported for these polysaccharides, such as inhibiting the binding or internalization of virus into the host cells or suppressing DNA replication and protein synthesis. This review strives for compiling previous antiviral studies of algae-derived polysaccharides and their mechanism of action towards their development as natural antiviral agents for future investigations.
Preterm Delivery in the Setting of Left Calyceal Rupture
Authors: Hanson Brent , Tabbarah Rami
Published: September 2015

Spontaneous rupture of the renal collecting system is a rare but serious complication of pregnancy. We report a case of nontraumatic left renal calyceal rupture in a pregnancy which ultimately progressed to preterm delivery. A 29-year-old primigravida with a remote history of urolithiasis presented with left flank pain, suprapubic pain, and signs of preterm labor at 33 weeks of gestation. The patient was believed to have urolithiasis, although initial renal ultrasound failed to demonstrate definitive calculi. After a temporary improvement in flank pain with medication, the patient experienced acute worsening of her left flank pain. Urology was consulted and further imaging was obtained. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was consistent with bilateral hydronephrosis and rupture of the left renal calyx. Given the patient’s worsening pain in the setting of left calyceal rupture, the urology team planned for placement of a left ureteral stent. However, before the patient could receive her stent, she progressed to active labor and delivered a viable female infant vaginally. Following delivery, the patient’s flank pain resolved rapidly and spontaneously, so no surgical intervention was performed. A summary of the literature and the details of this specific clinical situation are provided.
Significance of miR-148a in Colorectal Neoplasia: Downregulation of miR-148a Contributes to the Carcinogenesis and Cell Invasion of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Hibino Yumi , Sakamoto Naoya , Naito Yutaka , Goto Keisuke , Oo Htoo Zarni , Sentani Kazuhiro , Hinoi Takao , Ohdan Hideki , Oue Naohide , Yasui Wataru
Published: September 2015

Objective: Colorectal cancer (CRC) develops through the deregulation of gene expression and the accumulation of epigenetic abnormalities, leading to tumor cell acquisition of malignant features. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in cancer development, where they can act as oncogenes or oncosuppressors. Methods: miR-148a expression was measured by qRT-PCR in patients with colorectal adenoma (n = 21) and CRC (stage I-IV, n = 159) using formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples. In situ hybridization (ISH) using an miR-148a-specific probe was also performed. To further confirm the direct effect of miR-148a on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)7 expression in CRC, MTT and cell invasion assays using HT29 and WiDr cells were performed. Results: miR-148a expression was found to be clearly downregulated in high-grade adenoma compared to low-grade adenoma on both qRT-PCR and ISH analysis. Downregulation of miR-148a expression was significantly correlated with advanced clinicopathological features and was an independent prognostic classifier in patients with stage III CRC. In CRC cells and tissues, miR-148a expression was inversely correlated with the expression of MMP7. Conclusion: We showed the collaborative participation of miR-148a and MMP7 in CRC cell invasion. These results also demonstrate that the downregulation of miR-148a expression promotes CRC progression, especially carcinogenesis and cancer cell invasion.
DIAS, Maria Odila da Silva Leite. A interiorização da metrópole e outros estudos. 2ª ed. São Paulo: Alameda, 2009.
Authors: Aguiar Márlio
Published: September 2015

Resenha da obra de DIAS, Maria Odila Leite da Silva. A interiorização da metrópole e outros estudos. 2ª ed. São Paulo: Alameda, 2009.