bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Cure Characteristics and Crosslink Density of Virgin Acrylonitrile Butadiene Rubber/Recycled Acrylonitrile Butadiene Rubber (vNBR/rNBR) Blends
Authors: Nasir Muhammad Ridhwan Jamalul , Noimam N.Z. , Ismail Hanafi , Abdullah Mohd Mustafa Al Bakri , Hamzah Rosniza
Published: December 2013

Cure characteristics and crosslink density of virgin acrylonitrile butadiene rubber/recycled acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (vNBR/rNBR) blends were studied. Three different size ranges of rNBR particles, i.e., 150 - 350 μm, 2.0-15.0 mm, and 5-10 cm were used in this study. The vNBR/rNBR blends with blend ratios of 95/5, 85/15, 75/25, 65/35, and 50/50 were prepared using a two roll-mill at room temperature. The characterization results of the blends show that scorch time, t2, of the vNBR/rNBR blends decreased with increased rNBR content as well as decreasing sizes of rNBR particles while cure time, t90of the vNBR/rNBR blends increase with increased rNBR content as well as increasing sizes of rNBR particles. Among all blend ratios, the vNBR/rNBR blends with smallest size of rNBR particles exhibit lowest minimum torque (ML) compared with the bigger particle sizes of it in vNBR/rNBR blends which resulted in more efficient processing. The maximum torque (MH) of all vNBR/rNBR blends shows the inclining trend with increased rNBR. The cross-linking density of vNBR/rNBR blends also show an increasing trend with increasing rNBR content.
Rubber Toughened Polyamide 6/High Density Polyethylene/HDPE-g-MAH Nanocomposites with Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
Authors: Hamid Farizah , Akhbar Suffiyana , Ku Hamid Ku Halim
Published: December 2013

This paper study the effective toughening of polymer nanocomposites in order to have a balance stiffness, strength and toughness by incorporation of EVA as impact modifier and organoclay as a filler. In this research, rubber toughened PA6/HDPE blends nanocomposites were blended with 1 to 5 phr of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) with incorporation of 5wt% organoclay (MMT) in the presence of HDPE-g-MAH as compatibilizer. The mechanical properties of the samples such as tensile test and tensile modulus were measured by universal tensile machine whiles impact strength and hardness was measured using Izod Impact Tester and Rockwell hardness tester. The composites were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometer and Thermogravimetric Analyzer (TGA). The results exhibited enhancement of mechanical properties with incorporation of 1 phr EVA but slightly decreased for further addition of EVA content. FTIR analysis showed that both samples with and without EVA presented almost the same trend. TGA stability exhibit samples containing EVA showed lower stability than sample with EVA. Conversely, addition of EVA greatly increases the impact strength as well as improved the toughness of the composites.
Influence of High Doping of TiO2 of Polymeric Foam for Acoustic Study
Authors: Rus Anika Zafiah M. , Bainun Akmal M.A. , Mat Hassan N.N.
Published: December 2013

Titanium dioxide represents an effective photocatalyst for water and air purification and for self-cleaning surfaces. The purpose of this study is to determine sound absorption property of polymer foam of high doping of Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) which are 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100%. The acoustic study of the samples was measured by using impedance tube test according to the ASTM E-1050 to determined sound absorption coefficient (α) and noise reduction coefficient method (NRC). The highest α is 0.999 observed from the polymer foam doped with 60% of TiO2 at high frequency level of 4000 Hz. Meanwhile, the highest doping of TiO2 polymer foam shows remarkable characteristic of low level frequency absorption at 2000 Hz. Thus, different percentage of TiO2 doped in polymer foam can be used successfully to alter the characteristic of sound absorption property in a systematic way according to the request application.
Compressive Strength of Fly Ash Based Geopolymer/Glass Fiber Composite via Filament Winding
Authors: Ghazali Che Mohd Ruzaidi , Abdullah Alida , Al Bakri Abdullah Mohd Mustafa , Kamarudin Hussin , Ismail Anis Nadhirah
Published: December 2013

In general, filament winding technique is used to fabricate the composite pipes using continuous fiber and matrix resin. In this study, fly ash based geopolymer resin composites reinforced by continuous glass fiber were used for fabrication and synthesized by different curing and sintering temperature, different pattern and different viscosity of geopolymer. The effects of that parameter on the product were investigated. The compressive properties of the resulting composite were determined on an Instron Universal Testing under compression mode and the results show that the helical pattern with low viscosity cured at 75°C give the highest strength.
Conductivity and Dielectric Studies of Methylcellulose/Chitosan-NH4CF3SO3 Polymer Electrolyte
Authors: Hamdan K.Z. , Khiar A.S.A.
Published: December 2013

Films of methyl cellulose (MC) /chitosan blends were prepared via solution casting technique and their properties with different amount of ammonium trilate, NH4CF3SO3 were compared. Measurements of conductivity as a function of frequency at room temperature on these films were carried out using HIOKI 3532-50 LCR Hi-Tester where the frequency was set between 50 Hz to 1 MHz. Samples having 40 wt% of NH4CF3SO3 exhibit the highest room temperature conductivity of (4.99±4.18) x 10-6 Scm-1. Dielectric data were analyzed using complex permittivity and complex electrical modulus for the sample with the highest ionic conductivity.
Comparison Study in Consolidation of Yttria Reinforced Iron-Chromium Composites Using Conventional and Microwave Sintering Technique
Authors: Marina M. , Zamzuri M.Z.M. , Nazree Derman Mohd , Selamat Mohd Asri , Nooraizedfiza Z.
Published: December 2013

This research is focused on studying the density and mechanical properties of iron-chromium composites consolidated by innovative rapid microwave sintering technology against conventionally sintered counterparts using slow heating crucible furnace. Another aim of this study is to assess the viability of yttria (Y2O3) ceramic particulates as reinforcement to the iron-chromium composites. Fabrication of iron-chromium-yttria composites consolidated in microwave furnace and conventional crucible furnace was successfully accomplished. Improvement of density is evident in microwave sintered composites. The Y2O3 addition significantly increases the hardness of the composite (118 Hv for microwave specimens as opposed to 110Hv for conventional specimens). The study also successfully established the viability of microwave sintering technique for consolidating iron based powder metallurgy composites by up to 80% reduction of sintering time.
Comparison between Single and Multi Gates for Minimization of Warpage Using Taguchi Method in Injection Molding Process for ABS Material
Authors: Nasir S.M. , Ismail Khairul Azwan , Shayfull Z. , Shuaib Norshah Afizi
Published: December 2013

In this study, a mold is designed in single and dual type of gate in order to investigate the deflection of warpage for thick component in injection molding process. Autodesk Moldflow Insight software was used as a medium for experimental tested. Nessei NEX 1000 injection molding machine and P20 mold material details were entered in this study to get more accurate data on top of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) as a molded thermoplastic material. Taguchi orthogonal array, analysis of Signal to Noise (S/N) ratio and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were implemented to get the best combination of parameter and significant factor that affect the warpage problem for both types of gates. Coolant inlet temperature, melt temperature, packing pressure and packing time are the selected parameter that used in this study. A conformation test is conducted to verify the combination parameters optimized. From the result, multi gates used was founded that can decrease the deflection of warpage for thick product. From ANOVA, the most significant factor is melt temperature for single gate, and coolant inlet temperature for multi gate. Packing pressure and packing time were slightly influence on warpage problem for both studies.
Cu-SiCp Composites as Advanced Electronic Packaging Materials
Authors: Azmi K. , Derman M.N. , Al Bakri A.M. Mustafa , Sandu A.V.
Published: December 2013

The demand for advanced thermal management materials such as silicon carbide particles reinforced copper matrix (Cu-SiCp) composites is increasing due to the stringent design requirement in the electronic packaging industries. High interest on Cu-SiCp composites is highlighted by the high thermal conductivity and low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) properties. However, the thermal properties of the Cu-SiCp composites are constrained by the bonding between the copper matrix and the silicon carbide particles (SiCp) reinforcement. In the powder metallurgical (PM) methodology in particular, the bonding between the two constituents is weak, thus demoting the thermal properties of the Cu-SiCp composites. In order to improve the interface bonding, the SiCp were copper coated via electroless coating process. Based on the experimental results and findings, a continuous copper deposition on the SiCp was obtained via the electroless plating process. The copper film was found to be high in purity and homogeneously deposited on the SiCp surfaces. The CTE values of the Cu-Coated Cu-SiCp composites were found significantly lower than those of the non-Coated Cu-SiCp composites and were in agreement with Kernels model which accounts for both the shear and isostatic stresses developed in the component phases.
Physical and Morphological Properties of Styrene Butadiene Rubber/Recycled Chloroprene Rubber (SBR/CRr) Blends - The Effects of TOR as a Compatibilizer
Authors: Azrem Ahmad Azmi , Noriman N.Z. , Razif M.N. , Sam S.T.
Published: December 2013

Elastomer blends are widely used in rubber products for a variety of reasons, which include improved physical properties, improved service life, easier processing, and reduced production cost [. Butadiene and chloroprene (2-chloro-1,3 butadiene) are related monomers [. Blending of SBR with CR has been done to obtain better crystallisation resistance, better compression set resistance, lower brittleness temperature and enhanced resistance to sunlight deterioration as compared with CR alone. Other important properties, such as oil, heat, flame and ozone resistance, decrease as the amount of SBR increases [. It is possible to improve the phase morphology of SBR/CR blend by incorporating 5±10 phr of a modified copolymer that has segments chemically identical to SBR and CR phases. Addition of halocarbenes to polymers has been reported since a long time; however, available information on the commercial application on such modified polymers is limited [.
The Need to Intensify Research Efforts in the Alternative to Lead Shot
Authors: Gowon Baba , Mohammed Kahtan S. , Jamaludin Shamsul Baharin , Abdullah Alida
Published: December 2013

The problem of lead poisoning resulting from the use of lead shot in hunting waterbirds and shooting sports has led to the partial ban, voluntary restriction and complete ban of lead shot in some countries. The ban resulted in the alternatives like copper shot, tungsten-tin shot, bismuth-tin, steel shot, etc. These alternatives are still expensive and other possible alternatives have not been explored up to date. There is therefore need to ban lead shot world-wide and step up research into the alternatives (green shot).
Evaluation Grain Homogeneity of Aluminium after ECAP Process by ECAP Geometry Analysis Using Taguchi Method
Authors: Aminnudin  , Pratiko  , Purnowidodo Anindito , Irawan Yudy Surya , Haruyama Shigeyuki , Kaminishi Ken
Published: December 2013

Grain size and homogeneity are influence to aluminium properties, Equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) can produce aluminium with ultra fine grain Size (UFG). The grain size is depends on ECAP Dies geometry (Channel angle Φ, Fillet radius ψ) and friction, taguchi method used to find the optimum dies geometry its can produce smaller grain size and homogeny. Modeling done with channel angels 90, 105 and 120°, fillet radius (inside) 1.5, 5,0 and 10 mm ; fillet radius (outside) 1.5, 5,0 and 10 mm and friction 0, 0,025 and 0,05.
Modeling used L9 taguchi matrix, the most homogeny dies is ECAP dies with channel angel 105°, fillet radius (inside) 10 mm ; fillet radius (outside) 0 mm and friction 0,025
Compressive Behavior of AA6061 at Room Temperature and Validation of the FE Model Based on Optical 3D Measurement Technique
Authors: Abdullah A.B. , Samad Z.
Published: December 2013

Recently, manufacturing process simulation using finite element (FE) model become important. Therefore, validation of the finite element model is crucial. This study will present validation of 2D finite element simulation of cold heading at room temperature. Validation of the simulation model is carried out by comparing the resulted bulge profile of the cold upsetting specimen to the profile of the specimen, which is obtained from an optical 3D surface measurement technique namely Infinite Focus Alicona system. Based on the result, both profiles show a very good agreement.
Design and Development of Sensing System for Mines Detector Robot
Authors: Firdaus Ahamad Zaidi Ahmad , Cherng Yeoh Wei , Munir Handy Ali , Zaidi Nur Hidayah Ahmad
Published: December 2013

This paper presents the design and development of sensing system for mines detector robot. The objective of this project is to identify the optimum metal detection system and design and develop the sensing system of mines detection circuit for the landmine mobile robot. This sensing circuit of landmines detection system consists of pulse generation circuit, detector circuit, amplifier circuit, comparator circuit, microcontroller PIC18F4580 and the display result circuit through LCD screen. Size, type and shape of ferrous and non-ferrous object (landmines) will impinge on the output voltage signal from the search coil. The metal (iron) that was targeted in this project will be chosen based on an artificial detonator. Experimental results showed that this circuit able to sense ferrous and non-ferrous object (landmines) with satisfy sensitivity and consistent result.
Carbon Powder as Additive in Near-Net-Shaping of Mechanical Components through Warm Forming Route
Authors: Rahman Mujibur M. , Kadir N.A.A.A.
Published: December 2013

This paper presents the study of carbon powder as additive in near-net-shaping of mechanical components through warm forming route. Three design parameters, i.e., carbon content (wt %), forming temperature, and sintering schedule were investigated. Iron powder ASC 100.29 was mechanically mixed with different wt% of carbon and copper powder for 30 minutes to prepare the feedstock. Green compacts were then formed through uni-axial die compaction process at 30°C and 180oC. The defect-free green compacts were then sintered at 1000oC in an argon gas fired furnace at a heating/cooling rate of 5oC/minute for 30, 60, and 90 minutes, respectively. The green samples as well the sintered products were characterized through relative density measurement, radial shrinkage, and microstructure evaluation. The results revealed that excessive carbon content contributed adverse effect to the final quality of the products.
Newly Developed Starch-Based Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Film with Wide Spectrum of pH-Colour Indicator
Authors: Khairuddin Nozieana , Muhamad Ida Idayu , Thongbua Kesonthip , Shaharuddin Shahrulzaman , Mohamad Siti Nur Hidayah
Published: December 2013

Active packaging is a promising form of modern food packaging with great potential; economically, environmentally and generally, as it gives a lot of health benefits. Active and smart packaging is made by incorporating suitable colour indicators into food package matrices and applying a bio switch concept to inhibit the spoilage and the pathogenic microorganisms. The main objective of this study are to evaluate starch-based hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) the best formulation of methyl red and bromothymol blue that can react with wide pH ranges and the effect of the smart film indicator incorporated with methyl red and bromothymol blue. A solution casting method was used in the film preparation and colour indicators were incorporated before casting. The ratio of 50:50 methyl red and bromothymol blue showed the best formulation which can react with a wide range of pH buffer 1 to 13 compared to ratio 20:80 and 80:20 of methyl red and bromothymol blue. The ratio of 50:50 methyl red and bromothymol blue were then selected to be incorporated into the film to see the effectiveness of the indicator film in order to detect the changes of pH.
Carlo Meloni (1950-2009)
Authors: Fancello Luca
Published: December 2013

Il 6 dicembre 2009, circondato dall’affetto dei
famigliari, si è spento prematuramente a Cagliari
Carlo Meloni.
Rapidly worsening bulbar symptoms in a patient with spinobulbar muscular atrophy
Authors: Diaz-Abad Montserrat , Porter Neil C.
Published: December 2013

X-linked spinobulbar muscular atrophy (Kennedy’s disease) affects muscles and motor neurons, manifesting as weakness and wasting of bulbar, facial, and proximal limb muscles due to loss of anterior horn cells in the brain and spinal cord. We present the case of a patient with X-linked spinobulbar muscular atrophy with rapidly worsening bulbar symptoms caused by laryngopharyngeal irritation associated with a viral upper respiratory tract infection, seasonal allergies and laryngopharyngeal reflux, who dramatically improved with multimodality therapy.
Evaluation of Serum-Derived Bovine Immunoglobulin Protein Isolate in Subjects with Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Wilson Dale , Evans Malkanthi , Weaver Eric , Shaw Audrey L. , Klein Gerald L.
Published: December 2013

Background

There is increased interest in combining nutritional modalities with pharmacological therapies for managing patients with diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D).

Aim

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the impact of oral serum-derived bovine immunoglobulin/protein isolate (SBI) on gastrointestinal symptom scores and quality of life (QoL) in subjects with IBS-D.

Methods

Study subjects previously diagnosed with IBS-D according to ROME II criteria were recruited from London, Ontario, Canada and assigned to receive 5 g/day SBI, 10 g/day SBI, or placebo for 6 weeks. Daily symptom frequency and severity scores and a modified IBS-36 questionnaire assessed the impact of nutritional intervention. Laboratory assessments were performed at screening and end of treatment (EOT) to evaluate safety. Within-group comparisons of changes in number of days per week with symptoms and symptom severity were conducted on the per-protocol population of subjects using a t-test.

Results

Subjects who received SBI at 10 g/day (N = 15) had statistically significant within-group reductions in abdominal pain (p < 0.01), loose stools (p < 0.01), bloating (p < 0.05), flatulence (p < 0.01), urgency (p < 0.05) and any symptom (p < 0.01) at EOT vs. baseline. Subjects receiving 5 g/day of SBI (N = 15) realized statistically significant within-group reductions in days with flatulence (p < 0.035), incomplete evacuation (p < 0.05), and any symptom (p < 0.01). There were no significant changes in QoL scores or in hematology or clinical chemistry among treatment groups.

Conclusions

This pilot study showed that nutritional therapy with either 10 g/day or 5 g/day of SBI in 30 patients was well tolerated and resulted in statistically significant within group improvements in both symptom days and in daily symptom scores in subjects with IBS-D. Additional studies are underway with larger numbers of subjects to validate these findings.
Tropospheric water vapour and relative humidity profiles from lidar and microwave radiometry
Authors: Navas-Guzmán F. , Fernández-Gálvez J. , Granados-Muñoz M. J. , Guerrero-Rascado J. L. , Bravo-Aranda J. A. , Alados-Arboledas L.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. In this paper, we outline an iterative method to calibrate the water vapour mixing ratio profiles retrieved from Raman lidar measurements. Simultaneous and co-located radiosonde data are used for this purpose and the calibration results obtained during a radiosonde campaign performed in Summer and Autumn 2011 are presented. The water vapour profiles measured during nighttime by the Raman lidar and radiosondes are compared and the differences between the methodologies are discussed. Moreover, a new approach to obtain relative humidity profiles by combination of simultaneous profiles of temperature (retrieved from a microwave radiometer) and water vapour mixing ratio (from a Raman lidar) is addressed. In the last part of this work, a statistical analysis of water vapour mixing ratio and relative humidity profiles obtained during one year of simultaneous measurements is presented.
Gaseous nitrogen losses and mineral nitrogen transformation along a water table gradient in a black alder (Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn.) forest on organic soils
Authors: Eickenscheidt T. , Heinichen J. , Augustin J. , Freibauer A. , Drösler M.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Black alder (Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn.) forests on peat soils have been reported to be hotspots for high nitrous oxide (N2O) losses. High emissions may be attributed to alternating water tables of peatlands and to the incorporation of high amounts of easily decomposable nitrogen (N) into the ecosystem by symbiotic dinitrogen (N2)-fixation of alder trees. Our study addressed the question to what extent drainage enhances the emissions of N2O from black alder forests and how N turnover processes and physical factors influence the production of N2O and total denitrification. The study was conducted in a drained black alder forest with variable groundwater tables at a southern German fen peatland. Fluxes of N2O were measured using the closed chamber method at two drained sites (D-1 and D-2) and one undrained site (U). Inorganic N contents and net N mineralization rates (NNM) were determined. Additionally a laboratory incubation experiment was carried out to investigate greenhouse gas and N2 fluxes at different temperature and soil moisture conditions. Significantly different inorganic N contents and NNM rates were observed which however did not result in significantly different N2O fluxes in the field, but in the laboratory experiment. Measured N2O fluxes were low for all sites, with total annual emissions of 0.51 ± 0.07 (U), 0.97 ± 0.13 (D-1) and 0.93 ± 0.08 kg N2O-N ha−1 yr−1 (D-2). Only 37% of the spatio-temporal variation in field N2O fluxes could be explained by peat temperature and groundwater level, demonstrating the complex interlinking of the controlling factors for N2O emissions. However, temperature was one of the key variables of N2O fluxes in the conducted incubation experiment. Increasing soil moisture content was found to enhance total denitrification losses during the incubation experiment, whereas N2O fluxes remained constant. At the undrained site, permanently high ground water level was found to prevent net nitrification, resulting in a limitation of available nitrate (NO3–) and negligible gaseous N losses. Up to four times higher N2O flux rates were measured in the incubation experiment. They reveal the potential of high N2O losses under changing soil physical conditions at the drained alder sites. The observed high net nitrification rates and high NO3– contents bear the risk of considerable NO3– leaching at the drained sites.
Bridging the gap between GLUE and formal statistical approaches: approximate Bayesian computation
Authors: Sadegh M. , Vrugt J. A.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. In recent years, a strong debate has emerged in the hydrologic literature regarding how to properly treat nontraditional error residual distributions and quantify parameter and predictive uncertainty. Particularly, there is strong disagreement whether such uncertainty framework should have its roots within a proper statistical (Bayesian) context using Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulation techniques, or whether such a framework should be based on a quite different philosophy and implement informal likelihood functions and simplistic search methods to summarize parameter and predictive distributions. This paper is a follow-up of our previous work published in Vrugt and Sadegh (2013) and demonstrates that approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) bridges the gap between formal and informal statistical model–data fitting approaches. The ABC methodology has recently emerged in the fields of biology and population genetics and relaxes the need for an explicit likelihood function in favor of one or multiple different summary statistics that measure the distance of each model simulation to the data. This paper further studies the theoretical and numerical equivalence of formal and informal Bayesian approaches using discharge and forcing data from different watersheds in the United States, in particular generalized likelihood uncertainty estimation (GLUE). We demonstrate that the limits of acceptability approach of GLUE is a special variant of ABC if each discharge observation of the calibration data set is used as a summary diagnostic.
Bayesian networks for environmental flow decision making and an application in the Yellow River estuary, China
Authors: Pang A. P. , Sun T.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. We proposed an approach for environmental flow decision making based on Bayesian networks considering seasonal water use conflicts between agriculture and ecosystems. Three steps were included in the approach: water shortage assessment after environmental flow allocation using a production-loss model considering temporal variations of river flows; trade-off analysis of water use outcomes by Bayesian networks; and environmental flow decision making based on a risk assessment under different management strategies. An agricultural water shortage model and a production-loss model were integrated after satisfying environmental flows with temporal variability. The case study in the Yellow River estuary indicated that the average difference of acceptable economic loss for winter wheat irrigation stakeholders was 10% between water saving measures and water diversion projects. The combination of water diversion projects and water-saving measures would allow 4.1% more river inflow to be allocated to ecological needs in normal years without further economic losses in agriculture.
Heavy rainfall episodes over Liguria of autumn 2011: numerical forecasting experiments
Authors: Buzzi A. , Davolio S. , Malguzzi P. , Drofa O. , Mastrangelo D.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. The Liguria coastal region in Italy was affected by two heavy rainfall and consequent severe flood episodes that occurred at the end of October and beginning of November 2011. The very large accumulated precipitation maxima were associated, in both cases, with intense and quasi-stationary convective systems developed near the coast, both related to orographic lift and similar low-level mesoscale flow patterns over the Ligurian Sea, giving rise to pronounced convergence lines. This study aims at analyzing the main dynamical processes responsible for the onset, lifecycle, intensity and localization/propagation of the precipitating systems, using the ISAC convection-permitting model MOLOCH applied at different spatial resolutions and comparing model output fields with available observations. The ability of the model in forecasting quantitative precipitation (QPF) is tested with respect to initial analysis and model horizontal resolution. Although precipitation maxima remain underestimated in the model experiments, it is shown that forecast errors of QPF in both amount and position tend to decrease with increasing grid resolution. It is shown that model accuracy in forecasting rainfall amounts and localization of the precipitating systems critically depends, in both episodes, on the ability in representing the cold air outflow from the Po Valley to the Ligurian Sea, which determines the position and intensity of the mesoscale convergence lines over the sea. Such convergence lines controls, together with the lifting produced by the Apennines chain surrounding the coast, the onset of the severe convection.
The surface thermal signature and air–sea coupling over the Agulhas rings propagating in the South Atlantic Ocean interior
Authors: Souza J. M. A. C. , Chapron B. , Autret E.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. The surface signature of the Agulhas rings propagating across the South Atlantic Ocean is observed based on 3 independent datasets: TMI/AMSR-E satellite sea surface temperature, Argo profiling floats and a merged winds product derived from scatterometer observations and reanalysis results. A persistent pattern of cold (negative) SST anomalies in the eddy core, with warm (positive) anomalies at the boundary is revealed. This pattern contrasts with the classical idea of a warm core anti-cyclone. Taking advantage of a moving reference frame corresponding to the altimetry-detected Agulhas rings, modifications of the surface winds by the ocean induced currents and SST gradients are evaluated using satellite SST and wind observations. As obtained, the averaged stationary thermal expression and mean eddy-induced circulation are coupled to the marine atmospheric boundary layer, leading to surface wind anomalies. Consequently, an average Ekman pumping associated with these mean surface wind variations is consistently emerging. This average Ekman pumping is found to very well explain the SST anomaly signatures of the detected Agulhas rings. Particularly, this mechanism seems to be the key factor determining that these anti-cyclonic eddies exhibit stationary imprints of cold SST anomalies near their core centers. A residual phase with the maximum SSH anomaly and wind speed anomaly is found to the right of the mean wind direction, apparently maintaining a coherent stationary thermal expression coupled to the marine atmospheric boundary layer.
A TWELFTH-CENTURY OIL PRESS COMPLEX AT THE CRUSADER TOWN OF ARSUR (APOLLONIA-ARSUF) AND THE OLIVE OIL INDUSTRY IN THE LATIN KINGDOM OF JERUSALEM
Authors: Ayalon Etan , Tal Oren , Yehuda Elisabeth
Published: December 2013

This article documents an oil press discovered in the southern part of the Crusader town of Arsur (Area E), dating to the twelfth century CE. To date, no olive press from the Crusader period, excavated in systematic-scientific excavations, has been published in full. The article also discusses the olive oil industry in the Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem based on the available archaeological findings published thus far. It includes our current understanding of the development of olive oil production technology in the Holy Land and the role of the Crusader interlude as bridging the period between large-scaled and sophisticated Byzantine oil presses with those of late Ottoman (pre-modern) industry, which were smaller and simpler.
Argumentation as Rational Persuasion in Doctor-Patient Communication
Authors: Rubinelli Sara
Published: December 2013

This paper discusses the value of argumentation as an instrument for rational persuasion in doctor-patient (and general health professional–patient) communication. Argumentation can be used to influence those beliefs that form the basis of an individual's attitudes and decision-making process. In the medical context, argumentation can be used to legitimize the points of view of the doctor and the patient; to correct, add to, or modify a patient's set of beliefs; and to enhance the patient's central processing of the information that is foundational to his or her decision making. Overall, argumentation as a method of rational persuasion is an important communication tool for establishing conditions that are conducive to a patient's autonomous decision making. In this article, the issue of argumentation as rational persuasion is set within the context of several key topics in the area of health communication, namely, autonomy, the ways that doctors and patients interact and share information, and the effectiveness of information dissemination through traditional and new channels. Also, the difficulties of using argumentation effectively in this field are discussed, and areas of interest for future argumentation theory–based studies focused on enhancing its quality are highlighted.
Residue management practices and planter attachments for corn production in a conservation agriculture system
Authors: Nejadi J. , Raoufat M. H.
Published: December 2013

Seed placement and failure to establish a uniform plant stand are critical problems associated with production of corn (Zea mays) following wheat (Triticum aestivum) in a conservation agriculture system in Iran. Our objectives were to evaluate the performance of a corn row- crop planter equipped with two planter attachments (smooth/toothed coulters) at six wheat residue management systems (three tillage systems and two levels of surface residue) at two forward speeds of 5 and 7 km h-1. Residue retained after planting, seeding depth, emergence rate index (ERI) and seed spacing indices were determined. The baled residue plots tilled by chisel plow followed by disc harrow (BRCD) resulted in minimum residue after planting as compared to other residue treatments. Furthermore, the maximum values of the ERI and uniformity of plant spacing pertained to this treatment. Other results showed that the ERI increased up to 18% for the toothed coulter as compared to the smooth coulter. The toothed coulter also established a deeper seed placement as compared to the smooth coulter. Planting at forward speed of 5 km h-1 resulted in deeper seeding depth as compared to a forward speed of 7 km h-1. However, lower values of miss and precision indices were obtained at forward speed of 7 km h-1, indicating a more uniformity of plant spacing. Results of this study showed that equipping the conventional planter with toothed coulter and planting in soil prepared under the BRCD residue management system can result in a satisfactory conservation crop production system.
A novel PCR-based marker for identifying Ns chromosomes in wheat-Psathyrostachys huashanica Keng derivative lines
Authors: Wang J. , Lu M. , Du W. L. , Zhang J. , Dong X. Y. , Wu J. , Zhao J. X. , Yang Q. H. , Chen X. H.
Published: December 2013

Psathyrostachys huashanica Keng is an endangered species that is endemic to China, which provides an important gene pool for wheat improvement. We developed a quick and reliable PCR-based diagnostic assay to accurately and efficiently detect P. huashanica DNA sequences from introgression lines, which was based on a species-specific marker derived from genomic DNA. The 900-bp PCR-amplified band used as a P. huashanica-specific RAPD marker was tested with 21 different plant species and was converted into a sequence-characterized amplified region (SCAR) marker by cloning and sequencing the selected fragments (pHs11). This SCAR marker, which was designated as RHS23, could clearly distinguish the presence of P. huashanica DNA repetitive sequences in wheat-P. huashanica derivative lines. The specificity of the marker was validated using 21 different plant species and a complete set of wheat-P. huashanica disomic addition lines (1Ns–7Ns, 2n=44=22II). This specific sequence targeted the Ns genome of P. huashanica and it was present in all the seven P. huashanica chromosomes. Therefore, this SCAR marker is specific for P. huashanica chromosomes and may be used in the identification of alien repetitive sequences in large gene pools. This diagnostic PCR assay for screening the target genetic material may play a key role in marker-assisted selective breeding programs.
Platelets in cancer and thrombosis
Authors: Riedl J. , Pabinger I. , Ay C.
Published: December 2013

Platelets are the smallest circulating blood cells and their major function is the maintenance of haemostasis. They do not have a nucleus, but instead a multitude of granules that contain molecules important for several physiological processes. These granules can be released after platelet activation and thereby platelets take part in haemostasis, wound repair or immunological processes. Furthermore, platelets are also involved in the pathophysiology of several diseases, including cancer. Platelets can support various steps of cancer development and progression by promoting tumour growth, angiogenesis and metastasis. Moreover, platelets contribute to the hypercoagulable state frequently observed in cancer patients, leading to an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). In previous studies a high platelet count was repeatedly found to be associated with an elevated risk of VTE and a worse prognosis in patients with cancer.

The aim of this review is to give an overview of the most important alterations of platelet physiology in cancer patients and how these alterations may influence cancer disease and contribute to cancer-associated VTE.
Learning curve for TIP urethroplasty: A single-surgeon experience
Authors: Deschênes-Rompré Marie-Pier , Nadeau Geneviève , Moore Katherine , Ajjaouj Yassine , Braga Luis H. , Bolduc Stéphane
Published: December 2013

Introduction: We evaluate the influence of surgeon experience and other clinical factors on the success of primary hypospadias repair, using the tubularized incised plate urethroplasty (TIPU) technique.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed pediatric cases of primary hypospadias repair performed by a single pediatric urologist (soon after his fellowship training) using TIPU between July 2002 and January 2011. The surgical techniques (including the fact that the procedure was an outpatient one) were the same for each patient. The overall complication rate (CR) was analyzed for the following factors: patient age, use of a stent, meatal position, and surgeon experience. All significant covariates on univariate analysis or with a clinical relevance were entered into a multivariable logistic regression model. A non-linear model was created to estimate the change in the CR over the years.Results: Pediatric patients (median age 1.4 years old) presenting with distal (n = 251), midshaft (n = 22) or proximal (n = 30) hypospadias and with a minimum 6-week follow-up (median 13 months) were included. Most patients (87%) had a urethral stent postoperatively (mean duration 9.8 days). In total, 96 patients had 133 complications: 27 meatal stenosis, 25 meatal coronal migrations, 22 urethrocutaneous fistulas and 59 other complications. Of these, 53 patients underwent a second operation. On multivariate analysis, the only factor increasing the CR was a non-distal meatus. The non-linear model demonstrated a significant learning curve with a decreasing CR over the years. The limitations of this study are its retrospective nature and lack of long-term follow-up.Conclusions: When using TIPU, the CR significantly increases as the meatal position gets more proximal; the learning curve stabilizes after about 50 to 75 cases.
Low-dose rate brachytherapy for patients with low- or intermediate-risk prostate cancer: a systematic review
Authors: Rodrigues George , Yao Xiaomei , Loblaw Andrew D , Brundage Michael , Chin Joseph L.
Published: December 2013

Introduction: We review the current evidence for the role of low-dose rate brachytherapy (PB) in patients with low- or intermediate-risk prostate cancer using a systematic review of the literature.Methods: We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE (from January 1996to October 2011), the Cochrane Library, relevant guideline websites, and websites for meetings specific for genitourinary diseases.Results: Ten systematic reviews and 55 single-study papers met the pre-planned study selection criteria. In the end, 36 articles were abstracted and analyzed for this systematic review. There is no evidence for a difference in efficacy between PB and external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), or between PB and radical prostatectomy (RP). During the 6 months to 3 years after treatment, PB was associated with less urinary incontinence and sexual impotency than RP, and RP was associated with less urinary irritation and rectal morbidity than PB. However, these differences diminished overtime. PB conferred less risk of impotency and rectal morbidity in the 3 years after treatment than EBRT. Iodine-125 and alladium-103 did not differ with respect to biochemical relapse-free survival and patient-reported outcomes.Conclusions: PB alone is a treatment option with equal efficacyto EBRT or RP alone in patients with newly diagnosed low- or intermediate-risk prostate cancer who require or choose active treatment.
Pain management in urology training: A national survey of senior residents
Authors: Pace Jonathan , Jaeger Melanie , Nickel J. Curtis , Siemens David Robert
Published: December 2013

Introduction: We explore the attitudes and experience of urology residents toward acute and chronic pain management during their training.Method: A convenience sample of Canadian Urology chief residents were invited to complete an anonymous questionnaire involving both open and closed-ended questions using a 5-point Likert scale. Descriptive and quantitative statistics were used to analyze the attitudes toward pain management, including their experience and training issues.Results: The response rate was 97%. Most residents agreed or strongly agreed that more formal training in acute pain (77% agreement, mean 4.03 ± 0.98 SD) and chronic pain (68%, 3.97 ± 0.95) management would be valuable in urology residency with only 1 respondent disagreeing that training should be mandatory. There was a significant difference of training experience in chronic versus acute pain management, with only 13% agreement (2.99 ± 0.67) that their training in chronic pain was adequate. Most residents agreed (74%, 3.84 ± 1.00) that most of their training in pain management came from their senior residents or fellows. Many of the residents (65%, 3.61 ± 0.84) felt that they could manage their patients’ acute pain issues independently, even in the absence of an acute pain service, although apparent knowledge of opioids was poor.Conclusions: The results of this survey suggest that urology residents attain their knowledge of pain management experientially with what may be insufficient formal training, particularly in chronic pain. These observations are limited by the relatively small number of respondents and by the nature of a cross-sectional, self-reported survey; however, they would appear to underscore a need to redouble efforts in residency education.
Does transperitoneal minimally invasive radical prostatectomy increase the amount of small bowel receiving salvage radiation?
Authors: Luz Murilo A , Dal Pra Alan , Tu Hin-Yu Vincent , Duclos Marie , Cury Fabio LB , Bachir Bassel G. , Aprikian Armen G , Tanguay Simon , Kassouf Wassim
Published: December 2013

Introduction: Transperitoneal minimally invasive radical prostatectomy (MIRP) has become first choice for several urologists andpatients dealing with localized prostate cancer. We evaluate the effect of postoperative radiation on the small bowel in patients who underwent extraperitoneal open versus transperitoneal MIRP.Methods: We reviewed all patients who received postoperative radiation from 2006 to 2010. Planning target volume (PTV) and surrounding organs, including the small bowel, were delineated. The presence of the small bowel in PTV and its volume in receiving each dose level were analyzed.Results: A total of 122 patients were included: 26 underwent MIRP and 96 underwent open prostatectomy. The median age of patients was 66 years, with median body mass index 27 kg/m2. The total PTV dose was 66 Gy, with the minimum and maximum doses received by the small bowel 0.4 and 66.4 Gy, respectively. The maximum volume of small bowel that received the safe limit of 40 Gy was 569 cm3. Of the 26 patients who underwent MIRP, 12 (46%) had small bowel identified inside the PTV compared to 57 (59%) among patients who underwent open prostatectomy (p = 0.228). The mean volume of the small bowel receiving 40 Gy was 26 and 67 cm3 in open and MIRP groups, respectively (p = 0.006); the incidence of acute complications was the same in both groups.Conclusions: Higher volumes of the small bowel are subjected to significant radiation after MIRP procedures compared to open procedures; however, we could not demonstrate any impact on acute complications. Whether there is a difference in late complications remains to be evaluated.
The Brazilian Way to Consume acai: Do guarana Extract and Sugar Concentrations Influence on Acceptance?
Authors: Montenegro Gabriela , Pereira Karen S. , Melo Lauro
Published: December 2013

Acai is a palm widely distributed in the Amazon estuary floodplains. The edible pulp of acai fruits is commonly macerated with water to produce a thick, purple beverage of creamy texture, oily appearance, and characteristic flavor. Depending on the Brazilian region, the acai based-product is prepared adding sugar and guarana extract, but their ideal proportions have never been determined in order to optimize consumers’ sensory acceptance. This research investigated these concentrations using response surface methodology (RSM) based on a five-level, two variable central composite rotatable design (CCRD). Dependent variable was consumer acceptance (flavor, texture and overall liking) and results were analyzed by multivariate regressions. Analyses of Variance (ANOVAs) showed significant models – F-test values (29.3 for flavor, for texture 37.8 and 30.4 for overall liking) higher than the critical value of 4.35 (d.f. = 3; p < 0.05; R2 of 0.926 for flavor, 0.942 for texture and 0.929 for overall liking). Acceptance models are presented (significant parameters). Results showed that guarana extract has a stronger influence (negative) on acceptance compared to sugar (positive), both not on optimal conditions yet. Therefore, more studies are needed in order to optimize acai acceptance.
Lactation Persistency in Bulgarian Murrah Buffalo Cows
Authors: Penchev P. , Peeva Tz.
Published: December 2013

With the objective to establish the lactation persistency and its variability as affected by different factors, the study assigned 953 lactations of 310 Bulgarian Murrah buffalo cows bred on the farm of Agricultural Institute – Shumen within the period 1967-2009. The main method of measurement was the mean post-peak milk yield reduction. The data were processed by the conventional statistical procedure, as well as by the software products LSMLMW and MIXMDL. The persistency of milk yield after reaching peak was established to be relatively high (89.22%). Its variance is to a great extent explained by the factors days in milk (P<0.001) and parity (P<0.001), defining favorable effect of increased lactation length, and adverse effect of advancement in lactation order. The significant effect of season of calving (P<0.001) is expressed in higher lactation persistency in the autumn and winter calvers. The other environmental factor, period, and the genetic factor (individual) are significant at P<0.01, while the effect of productivity level is not. The portion of the peak yield was estimated to be 15.75% of the lactation productivity, the percentage of the greatest yield drop – 11.38%, the persistency ratio between the first and second lactation half – 73.60%.
Osteoid osteoma of the fibula in a female rugby player
Authors: Meirhaeghe MWJ , Viviers PL , Kirby JH , Viljoen JT
Published: December 2013

Osteoid osteomas are benign osteoblastic tumours encountered relatively commonly among skeletal lesions. Despite distinct clinical findings, atypical presentations make for a challenging or delayed diagnosis which may negatively affect a patient’s quality of life in the interim. We present the case of a young female rugby player with a subperiosteal osteoid osteoma of the distal fibula – a rare location for this type of tumour.