bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Traditional HAZOP and WHIPP
Authors: Ashish S. , Gerald Leo A. , Shanmuga Prakash R.
Published: October 2016

A hazard and operability study (HAZOP) is a structured and systematic examination of a planned or existing process or operation in order to find and evaluate problems that may represent risks to personnel or equipment, or prevent efficient operation. The qualitative HAZOP uses keywords for generating deviations from safe condition and ensures that appropriate safeguards are in place to prevent accidents. WHIPP or Walkdown Hazard Identification for Plant and Process is a hazard identification technique which can be applied to chemical plants, but with modification can be tailored for many industry types. The method adopts a checklist approach to hazard identification which enables auditors and plant operators to carry out plant walkdowns easily and effectively. But there is a high difference between a qualitative hazard identification method and audit type method since HAZOP is mainly used in a process industry and an audit is mainly used for inspecting the safety management of the industry thus in the WHIPP they used guidewords same as HAZOP uses keywords to identify the hazards and risks associated with the hazards while they perform the walk down in the company and are assessed with a checklist. This paper is the comparison of the two methods to see which is more efficient and which is more reliable in the process industries as well as normal industries.
Application of Natural Fiber Composites in Engineering Industries: A Comparative Study
Authors: Syath Abuthakeer S. , Vasudaa Ramakrishnan , Nizamudeen Afsana
Published: October 2016

Today’s technological innovations call for continual improvement in the field of material science to substitute the heavy structures with lightweight materials without compromising the strength. For this purpose composite materials (combination of two or more materials) are developed. The incorporation of natural fibers as reinforcing agent in both thermoset and thermoplastic polymer composites has gained increasing applications both in many areas of engineering and technology. A variety of natural fibers based polymer composite materials have been developed using modified synthetic strategies to extend its application from automotive to biomedical fields. The eco friendliness and reduction in wear and tear aspects in machineries with the use of natural fiber composites also has been captured in this paper. This paper is an earnest compilation of the data regarding a variety of natural fibers, their physical and mechanical properties, their resilience and strength. Considerable effort has been put in bringing the data on various natural fiber composites in one place by cutting out the details from various sources so as to make it as a ready reckoner for any researcher for future research in this area.
Design and Fabrication of Water Bottle Wrapper Remover Machine
Authors: Kalidass M. , Mahavignesh R. , Arun R. , Sekar S.
Published: October 2016

This paper deals with an industrial problem of plastic wrapper removing. This trends to given a new innovation in the field of recycling. From this contribution all kind of water bottles having eligible to remove the unwanted labels for further reconstruction. Thus, this paper focus on the design of label wrapper machine to remove the PVC 38&40-Micron label around the specially shaped cool drinks bottles. The metal brush through the power of electric motor can remove the label effectively. Recycle process which plays virtual role in all over application but, reuse and recycle process is only thing of plastics application. However modern technology food and cool drinks are contain inside of plastics container. But, our aim is to be recycle the plastic without any additional of colour, odour and taste. Human source never fulfil maximum efficiency work. Hence, in this project which utilized new trends and reduce the human work for further implementation from its construction. Hence hear by the high power machine to solving the above issue with addition of metal brush to remove the labels constantly.
Influence of Carbide Substrate Properties on Wear Resistance of Tool with Multilayer Coating in Machining of Chromium-Based Heat-Resistant Alloy
Authors: Batako Andre , Adaskin Anatoliy Matveevich , Butrim Victor Nikolaevich , Vereschaka Alexey Anatolevich , Vereschaka Anatoliy Stepanovich
Published: October 2016

Thispaper presents the results of the studies of the combined influence of properties of carbide substrate and composite coatings on tool wear resistance in machining of chromium-based heat-resistant alloys. It was established that the efficiency of carbide tools with coatings is determined by a combination of the properties of the carbide substrate and the coating itself. For carbides with relatively low strength and crack resistance, the efficiency of coatings appeared to be unsatisfactory because of brittle fracture of the substrate and thus intensive failure of coating. High heat resistance of cobalt-rhenium alloy is not realized during deposition of coating because of blocking of the most important property of heat-resistant Co/Re binder, i.e. the ability to hold carbide grains under significant deterioration of carbide matrix even at a high temperature in the cutting zone.The maximum efficiency of the coating in machining of chromium-based heat-resistant alloy is provided withcarbide tools made with a balanced ratio of hardness, heat resistance and strength.
Synthesis and Characterization of Chitosan-Silver Nanocomposite Film
Authors: Olaniyan Olayinka J. , Dare Enock O. , Adetunji Olayide , Adedeji Omolola O. , Ogungbesan Shephrah O.
Published: October 2016

Chitosan is termed as one of the useful carbohydrate oligosaccharides derived from chitin, which can be used to improve film packaging by hybridizing with silver due to their advantages of flexibility, easy scale up and low cost methods. Design of packaging material with non-toxic property becomes key issue. The objective of this work is to synthesize and characterize chitosan-silver nanocomposite film for effective packaging. The nanocomposite was synthesized using in-situ, co-mixing chemical method and air drying method. The morphology integrity of the nanohybrid was confirmed using UV-Visible Spectrophotometer, Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). TEM analysis revealed the cap shaped spherical morphology with no agglomeration and uniform size distribution of the nanoparticles within the range of 20.00 nm. UV-visible analysis showed Plasmon resonance band at 275 nm and 435 nm indicating the presence of chitosan and silver with no observable peak and an increase in intensity of chitozan. XRD confirmed the order and crystalline peak located at 2θ = 35ᵒ, 64ᵒ and 77ᵒwhich have been keenly indexed as face centred cubic Silver nanocrystals.Thus, the nanocomposite film produced serves as an effective packaging material.
Surface Engineering of Magnetite Nanoparticles by Plant Protein: Investigation into Magnetic Properties
Authors: Das Amlan Kumar , Marwal Avinash , Pareek Vikram , Joshi Yagya , Apoorva Apoorva
Published: October 2016

The surface of the magnetite nanoparticles has been engineered by the proteins available in the leaf extract of Datura inoxia. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) study and by thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) confirms the bonding between metal ions and the amide carbonyl group preset in the plant protein confirming the formation of core-shell structure. The plant protein coated magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles under investigation have an average size of about 14 nm (˂20nm). The isothermal magnetization curve of the ferrofluid appears in S-like sigmoid shape showing soft nonhysteretic magnetic behaviour at room temperature. The saturation magnetization (MS), remanent magnetization (MR), squareness (MR/MS) and coercivity value (HC) increased with decreasing temperature from 300 K to 10 K. The increment of magnetization (45 to 53 emu/gm) might be due to the decrease in thermal energy while the enhancement of coercivity (0-208 Oe) is attributed to the exchange interaction at the interface between the ferromagnetic (Fe3O4) and diamagnetic surface layer of protein on the nanocrystalline magnetite. The magnetization value is much smaller in comparison with the bulk magnetite (92emu/g) due to surface spin disorder also approves core-shell structure of diamagnetic protein layer on the surface. The results show the ease of the synthesis to reinforce the colloidal stability where the super paramagnetic behaviour has been found to be restored. The core-shell moiety could play an important role in biological systems as a means of storing Fe+3 for an organism.
Exfoliation of Graphene and its Application as Filler in Reinforced Polymer Nanocomposites
Authors: Shah Syed Sajid Ali , Nasir Habib
Published: October 2016

Recently, graphene has played a promising role due to its exceptional mechanical and thermal properties and the broad range of applications. This paper reviews the synthesis of graphene and its use as fillers in polymer nanocomposites. The nanocomposites prepared by different methods have the wide range of applications, such as in energy storage devices, biosensor applications, automotive industries and electronic industries. Graphene can be prepared by different methods, for example, mechanical exfoliation, chemical exfoliation, electrochemical exfoliation and Intercalation compound exfoliation. The electrochemical method is environmentally friendly, however, the chemical exfoliation method is cost effective and suitable for commercial production of graphene. In oxidation-reduction method, the oxidation of graphite starts at point’s defects and the temperature has great effects on oxidation of graphite, at low-temperature oxidation is sensitive to impurities and at high-temperature oxidation increases with increasing temperature. Graphene can be incorporated into the polymer matrix by different approaches, such as in situ polymerization, solution, costing method, electrodeposition, and click chemistry method.
Magnetic Properties of CdMoO4:Dy3+ Single Crystal
Authors: Groń Tadeusz , Tomaszewicz Elzbieta , Berkowski Marek , Oboz Monika , Kusz Joachim , Duda Henryk , Urbanowicz Piotr
Published: October 2016

X-ray diffraction measurement at 298 K of CdMoO4:Dy3+ showed that the molybdenum ions are tetrahedral coordinated and Cd/Dy – dodecahedral coordinated. The Dy3+ ions are randomly distributed in the unit cell, substituting the Cd2+ ones. The temperature dependence of ac and dc magnetic susceptibility showed a lack of the Curie-Weiss behaviour and a weak response to the magnetic field. The magnetization isotherms, M(H), showed a paramagnetic-diamagnetic transition at 17 K for 〈100〉 direction and at 35 K for 〈001〉 one in the magnetic field of 70 kOe. As the temperature increased this transition was moving toward smaller magnetic fields.
Electric and Magnetic Properties of Transition-Metal Carbide Sc3TC4 (T=Co, Ru, Os)
Authors: Kazama Takuto , Maeda Minoru , Takase Kouichi , Takano Yoshiki , Watanabe Tadataka
Published: October 2016

We investigate electric and magnetic properties of quasi-one-dimensional transition-metal carbides Sc3TC4 (T = Co, Ru, and Os), and their mixed crystals Sc3(Co1-xRux)C4 and Sc3(Ru1-xOsx)C4. Sc3CoC4 exhibits successive phase transitions of charge-density-wave transition at TCDW ~ 140 K, Peierls-like structural transition at Ts ~ 70 K, and superconducting transition at Tc ~ 5 K. Sc3RuC4 and Sc3OsC4 exhibit a phase transition at T* ~ 220 K and 250 K, respectively, which should occur in the low-dimensional electronic structure. For Sc3CoC4, it is revealed by the investigation of the electric and magnetic properties of Sc3(Co1-xRux)C4 that the phase transitions at TCDW, Ts, and Tc exhibit different robustness against Ru doping. For Sc3RuC4 and Sc3OsC4, it is revealed by the investigation of the electric and magnetic properties of Sc3(Ru1-xOsx)C4 that an identical kind of phase transition occurs at T*. Additionally, the present study reveals that the phase transition at T* in Sc3RuC4 and Sc3OsC4 is inherently different from the phase transitions at TCDW, Ts, and Tc in Sc3CoC4.
Selection, Shaping and Thermal Analysis of Y2Fe17-xCox Series for Magnetocaloric Heat Conversion
Authors: Dianoux Alexy , Rado Cyril , Servant Florence , Jannot Yves , Mazet Thomas
Published: October 2016

In this work, we first present the composition dependence of the magnetocaloric properties in the Y2Fe17-xCox series.Then, we show preliminary results on our shaping works. In order to use the Y2Fe17-xCox compounds in magnetocaloric heat conversion systems, we applied powder metallurgy technics at a semi industrial scale to shape it. That involves milling, sintering, and heat treatments.Finally, the emphasis has been laid on the thermal properties of the sintered material, considering their decisive influence on the performance of the system.
The Nanoflower-Like Morphology and Magnetism of As-Milled Ho(Ni0.8Co0.2)3 Powders Prepared by HEBM
Authors: Bajorek Anna , Berger Clément , Prusik Krystian , Wojtyniak Marcin , Chełkowska Grażyna
Published: October 2016

The morphology and magnetic properties of the Ho(Ni0.8Co0.2)­3 crystalline and ball – milled intermetallic compounds are presented. The polycrystalline bulk compound crystallizes in the rhombohedral PuNi3 - type of crystal structure and indicates ferrimagnetic arrangement with the Curie temperature of TC = 48 ± 1 K, the helimagnetic temperature Th = 26 ± 2 K with the total saturation magnetic moment of 7.78 µB/f.u. at 2 K. The use of the HEBM method leads to the formation of nanoflakes with typical thickness of less than 100 nm. The extended milling leads to the reduction in particles/crystallites size and in the emergence of the relatively small coercivity (HC).
The Phonon Mediated Anomalies of Thermal Expansion in Transition-Metal Componds and Emergent Nanostructures
Authors: Eremenko Victor , Sirenko Valentyna , Dolbin Alexander , Feodosyev Sergey , Gospodarev Igor , Syrkin Eugenyi , Bondar Ivan , Minakova Ksenya
Published: October 2016

Abstract. The negative expansion observed at low temperatures in specific crystallographic directions of complex structures with anisotropic interactions is explained by microscopic analysis within the tight-binding, quasi-harmonic approximation of lattice dynamics. The results agree with measurements on multilayer sandwiches of transition-metal dichalcogenides, high-temperature superconductors and relevant nanostructures including the carbon-based nanotubes.
Reversible Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Into the Thaumaturgy of the Heart—Part 1
Authors: Quarta Giovanni , Coppini Raffale , Lambiase Pier , Garcia-Pavia Pablo , Calabrese Alice , Iorio Anna , Maurizi Niccolò , Iascone Maria , Gavazzi Antonello , Olivotto Iacopo , Senni Michele
Published: October 2016

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a genetic or acquired heart muscle disorder characterized by dilation and impaired contraction of one or both ventricles. In the acquired forms of the disease, if the pathogenic agent is persistent, undiagnosed or untreated, permanent ultrastructural and morphological changes may lead to irreversible dysfunction. Conversely, when DCM is promptly recognized and treated, the heart may show an extraordinary ability to recover from left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction. While much research in heart failure has focused on morbidity and mortality associated with persistent LV systolic dysfunction, relatively little attention has been devoted to this remarkable potential for recovery. In this two-part review we will focus on the most common types of reversible DCM. The first part will deal with Tako-Tsubo cardiomyopathy, tachycardiainduced cardiomyopathy, metabolic DCM and recovery after Left ventricular assist device implantation. Although diverse in etiopathogenesis, genetic background, therapeutic options and outcome, the forms of DCM characterized by reversible LV dysfunction share similar challenges in diagnosis and clinical management. The identification of pathways to recovery may show the way for novel therapeutic targets ultimately benefitting all cardiac patients.
Reversible Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Into the Thaumaturgy of the Heart - Part 2
Authors: Quarta Giovanni , Coppini Raffaele , Lambiase Pier , Garcia-Pavia Pablo , Calabrese Alice , Iorio Anna , Maurizi Niccolò , Iascone Maria , Gavazzi Antonello , Olivotto Iacopo , Senni Michele
Published: October 2016

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a genetic or acquired heart muscle disorder characterized by dilation and impaired contraction of one or both ventricles. In the acquired forms of the disease, if the pathogenic agent is persistent, undiagnosed or untreated, permanent ultrastructural and morphological changes may lead to irreversible dysfunction. Conversely, when DCM is promptly recognized and treated, the heart may show an extraordinary ability to recover from left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction. While much research in heart failure has focused on morbidity and mortality associated with persistent LV systolic dysfunction, relatively little attention has been devoted to this remarkable potential for recovery. In this two-part review we will focus on the most common types of reversible DCM. The second part will deal with chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy, alcohol- related cardiomyopathy, myocarditis and peripartum cardiomyopathy. Although diverse in etiopathogenesis, genetic background, therapeutic options and outcome, the forms of DCM characterized by reversible LV dysfunction share similar challenges in diagnosis and clinical management. The identification of pathways to recovery may show the way for novel therapeutic targets ultimately benefitting all cardiac patients.
Catalogue of the primatological collection of the Torino University
Authors: Calvini Mara , Siori Maria Stella , Gippoliti Spartaco , Pavia Marco
Published: October 2016

The revised catalogue of primatological material stored in the Museo Regionale di Scienze Naturali of Torino and in the Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e Biologia dei Sistemi of the Università degli Studi di Torino and belonging to the historical material of the Torino University is introduced. The material, 494 specimens belonging to 399 individuals of 122 taxa, is of particular importance since specimens were mainly obtained during the 19th Century and the beginning of the 20th Century. A relevant part of the collection was created by the collaborators of the Museum, among which it is worth to mention F. De Filippi, A. Borelli and E. Festa, while other material came from purchases and donations from private people or the Royal Zoological Garden of Torino. Great part of the specimens is stuffed but also the osteological materials are of particular importance, as many of them derived from the specimens before being prepared and consisting of skulls or more or less complete skeletons. After this revision, the Lectotype and Paralectotypes of Alouatta palliata aequatorialis have been selected, and the type-specimen of the brunnea variety of Cebus albifrons cuscinus has been recognized. In addition, some specimens of particular historical-scientific importance have also been identified and here presented for the first time.
Level of PAX5 in differential diagnosis of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
Authors: Bharti Brij , Shukla Sachin , Tripathi Ratnakar , Mishra Suman , Kumar Mohan , Pandey Manoj , Mishra Rajnikant
Published: October 2016

Background & objectives:

The PAX5, a paired box transcription factor and B-cell activator protein (BSAP), activates B-cell commitment genes and represses non-B-cell lineage genes. About 14 transcript variants of PAX5 have been observed in human. Any alteration in its expression pattern leads to lymphogenesis or associated diseases and carcinogenesis in non-lymphoid tissues. Its mechanisms of function in pathophysiology of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) are unclear. This study was intended to explore influence of PAX5 in cascade of NHL pathogenesis and diagnosis.

Methods:

Samples of 65 patients were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining for cellular localization of PAX5, CD19, CD3, cABL, p53, Ras and Raf and by TUNEL assay, RNA-isolation and reverse transcriptase (RT)-PCR, Western blot analysis, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) specific staining.

Results:

B-cell type NHL patients were positive for PAX5, p53, Ras, CD19, Raf and CD3. All of them showed TUNEL-positive cells. The differential expression pattern of PAX5, CD19, p53, CD3, ZAP70, HIF1α, Ras, Raf and MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) at the levels of transcripts and proteins was observed. The LDH assay showed modulation of LDH4 and LDH5 isoforms in the lymph nodes of NHL patients.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The histological observations suggested that the patients represent diverse cases of NHL like mature B-cell type, mature T-cell type and high grade diffuse B-cell type NHL. The findings indicate that patients with NHL may also be analyzed for status of PAX5, CD19 and ZAP70, and their transcriptional and post-translational variants for the differential diagnosis of NHL and therapy.
Evaluation of HER2/neu oncoprotein in serum & tissue samples of women with breast cancer
Authors: Shukla Shailaja , Singh Bhawana Komal , Pathania Om Prakash , Jain Manjula
Published: October 2016

Background & objectives:

The proto-oncogene HER2/neu has been extensively studied in breast cancer patients. Serum levels of HER2/neu by ELISA in breast cancer patients were compared with tissue HER2/neu expression and with other clinicopathological parameters with the aim to investigate whether the serum assay could replace the established tests (IHC/FISH) for HER-2 status.

Methods:

Blood and Tru-cut biopsy samples were collected for determining HER2/neu status in 64 breast cancer patients. The tissue specimens were processed routinely and immunohistochemistry (IHC) for HER2/ER/PR (oestrogen/progesterone receptors) performed. Fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH) was performed on all HER2/neu 2 positive cases. Sixty age matched healthy females and females with benign breast disease were taken as controls for ELISA.

Results:

Of the 64 breast cancer cases, 25 (39.1%) had elevated serum HER2/neu levels accompanied with increased tissue expression of HER2/neu receptors. On IHC, HER2/neu score was 3+ in 24 (37.5%) cases, 2+ in three (4.6%), 1+ in 18 (28.1%); while 19 cases (29.7%) showed no HER2/neu expression. Of the three 2+ cases on IHC, two showed amplification on FISH. Twenty one (32.8%) patients were ER positive and 17 (26.6%) were PR positive. There was a significant correlation (P<0.001) of serum HER2 concentration with tumour size, lymph node involvement, stage of disease and histological grade. Serum HER2/neu levels showed a negative correlation with ER status (P=0.047) but no correlation with PR status.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The results suggest that elevated serum HER2 level was associated with a clinicopathological aggressive phenotype of breast carcinoma and was related to tissue HER2 overexpression. Therefore, serum HER2 may be useful for monitoring the course of the disease and response to treatment.
Predictors for progression of metastatic prostate cancer to castration-resistant prostate cancer in Indians
Authors: Sureka Sanjoy Kumar , Maheshwari Ruchir , Agnihotri Shalini , Mitash Nilay , Ahmad Shamim , Mandhani Anil
Published: October 2016

Background & objectives:

There is lack of data on natural history and progression of prostate cancer (PC) which have implications in the management of the disease. We undertook this retrospective study to analyze factors predicting progression of metastatic PC to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) in Indian men.

Methods:

Complete records of 223 of the 489 patients with metastatic PC were obtained from computerized data based system in a tertiary care hospital in north India between January 2000 to June 2012. Patients with follow up of < 6 months were excluded. Age (≤ and > 65 yr), baseline PSA (< and ≥ 50 ng/ml), bone scan and Gleason score (≤7 and >7) were recorded. Extent of bone disease (EOD) was stratified according to the number of bone lesions i.e., < 5, 5-10, > 10. CRPC was defined as two consecutive PSA rise of > 50 per cent from nadir or an absolute value of > 5 ng/ml.

Results:

Mean age of patients was 61.5 ± 12.45 yr and their PSA level was 325.6 ± 631.35 ng/dl. Of the 223 patients, 193 (86%) progressed to CRPC at median time of 10.7 (4-124) months. Median follow up was 24 (6-137) months. On univariate and multivariate analyses EOD on bone scan was found to be a significant predictor (P=0.006) for time to CRPC. Median time to CRPC was 10 months (CI 95%, 7.5-12.48) with >10 lesions or super scan versus 16 months (CI 95%, 10.3-21.6) with <10 bone lesion (P=0.01). Ninety (46.6 %) patients of CRPC died with median time to death from time of CRPC 21 (10-120) months.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Median time for progression of metastatic PC to CRPC ranged from 10-16 months depending on the extent of the bone involvement. In Indians, the aggressive course of advanced prostate cancer warrants further clinical trials to explore the need for additional treatment along with initial castration.
Potential diagnostic implications of miR-144 overexpression in human oesophageal cancer
Authors: Sharma Priyanka , Saraya Anoop , Sharma Rinu
Published: October 2016

Background & objectives:

Insidious symptomatology, late clinical presentation and poor prognosis of oesophageal cancer (EC) highlight the pressing need for novel non-invasive biomarkers for early tumour diagnosis and better prognosis. The present study was carried out to evaluate the clinical significance of circulating and tissue miR-144 expression in oesophageal cancer.

Methods:

Clinical significance of miR-144 expression was evaluated in preneoplastic (12) and neoplastic (35) oesophageal cancer tissues as well as matched distant non-malignant tissues using real-time PCR (qPCR). Circulating levels of miR-144 were also analyzed in serum samples of EC patients as well as normal individuals to determine the diagnostic potential of miR-144. Further, targets of miR-144 were predicted using bioinformatic tools and their gene ontology (GO) terms were assigned.

Results:

Real-time PCR analysis revealed significant upregulation of miR-144 in 29 of 35 (83%) EC tissues as compared to matched distant non-malignant tissues (P=0.010). All the dysplastic tissues showed upregulation of miR-144 as compared to their matched distant non-malignant tissues. Relative levels of circulating miR-144 in serum significantly distinguished EC patients from normal controls (P=0.015; AUC = 0.731) with high sensitivity of 94.7 per cent. Bioinformatically predicted target, PUR-aplha (PURA) was found to be significantly (P=0.018) downregulated in 81 per cent (26/32) EC patients and its expression was found to be significantly and negatively correlated with miR-144 expression at mRNA level.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Our findings showed significant upregulation of miR-144 in serum samples of EC patients indicating its potential as minimally invasive marker. Further studies need to be done to understand the role of miR-144 in the pathogenesis of EC.
Dual transcripts of BCR-ABL & different polymorphisms in chronic myeloid leukaemia patients
Authors: Nandagopalan S. Rajashree , Kuila Nivedita , Biswas Sutapa , Pattnayak Naresh Chandra , Biswas Gyanashyam , Chakraborty Soumen
Published: October 2016

Background & objectives:

Chronic myeloid leukaemia is (CML) characterized by the presence of a hallmark chromosomal translocation, the Philadelphia chromosome. Although there are many reports available regarding the different variants of BCR-ABL in CML, we studied the co-expression of e13a2 and e14a2 transcripts and a few polymorphisms in CML patients.

Methods:

Molecular genetics approach was adapted to screen for polymorphisms, mutation and translocation in BCR, ABL kinase domain and BCR-ABL breakpoint region in 73 CML patients.

Results:

All eight patients with dual transcripts were found to harbour an exonic polymorphism (c.2700 T>C) and an intronic polymorphism (g.109366A>G) that were earlier reported to be associated with co-expression of both the transcripts. We also observed c.763G>A mutation in ABL kinase domain and two polymorphisms, c.2387 A>G and c.2736A>G in the BCR gene.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Though our data support the previous findings that co-expression of BCR-ABL transcripts is due to the occurrence of exonic and intronic polymorphisms in the BCR gene, it also shows that the intronic polymorphism can arise without the linked exonic polymorphism. The occurrence of ABL kinase domain mutation is less frequent in Indian population.
Unverifiable Academic Work by Applicants to Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship Programs in the United States
Authors: Stevens Robert B. , Hatzenbuehler John R. , Dexter William W. , Haskins Amy E. , Holt Christina T.
Published: October 2016

Background 

In 2008, it was shown that 11% of applications to a primary care sports medicine program contained unverifiable citations for publications. In 2009, the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine changed the application requirements, requiring proof that all claimed citations (publications and presentations) be included with the fellowship application.

Objective 

We determined the rate of unverifiable academic citations in applications to primary care sports medicine fellowship programs after proof of citations was required.

Methods 

We retrospectively examined all applications submitted to 5 primary care sports medicine fellowship programs across the country for 3 academic years (2010–2013), out of 108 to 131 programs per year. For claimed citations that did not include proof of publication or presentation, we attempted to verify them using PubMed and Google Scholar searches, a medical librarian search, and finally directly contacting the publisher or sponsoring conference organization for verification.

Results 

Fifteen of 311 applications contained at least 1 unverifiable citation. The total unverifiable rate was 4.8% (15 of 311) for publications and 11% (9 of 85) for presentations. These rates were lower than previously published within the same medical subspecialty.

Conclusions 

After requiring proof of publication and presentation citations within applications to primary care sports medicine fellowship programs, unverifiable citations persisted but were less than previously reported.
Residency Applicant Preferences of Online Systems for Scheduling Interviews
Authors: Hern H. Gene , Wills Charlotte P. , Alter Harrison J. , Bowman Steven H. , Burns Boyd D. , Loyd Joshua , Schneider Jeffrey I. , Yarris Lalena M.
Published: October 2016

Background 

Residency applicants often have difficulty coordinating interviews with multiple programs. An online scheduling system might improve this process.

Objective 

The authors sought to determine applicant mean time to schedule interviews and satisfaction using online scheduling compared with manual scheduling.

Methods 

An electronic survey was sent to US graduates applying to any of 6 emergency medicine programs in the 2014–2015 application cycle. Of the participant programs, 3 used an online system and 3 did not. Applicants were asked to report estimated time to schedule with the online system compared to their average time using other methods, and to rate their satisfaction with the scheduling process.

Results 

Of 1720 applicants to at least 1 of the 6 programs, 856 completed the survey (49.8%). Respondents reported spending less time scheduling interviews using the online system compared to other systems (median of 5 minutes [IQR 3–10] versus 60 minutes [IQR 15–240], respectively, P < .0001). In addition, applicants preferred using the online system (93.6% versus 1.4%, P < .0001.) Applicants were also more satisfied with the ease of scheduling their interviews using the online system (91.5% versus 11.0%, P < .0001) and felt that the online system aided them in coordinating travel arrangements (74.7% versus 41.5%, P < .01.)

Conclusions 

An online interview scheduling system is associated with time savings for applicants as well as higher satisfaction among applicants, both in ease of scheduling and in coordinating travel arrangements. The results likely are generalizable to other medical and surgical specialties.
Promoting Resident Autonomy During Family-Centered Rounds: A Qualitative Study of Resident, Hospitalist, and Subspecialty Physicians
Authors: Beck Jimmy , Kind Terry , Meyer Rebecca , Bhansali Priti
Published: October 2016

Background 

Family-centered rounds (FCR) have become a leading model for pediatric inpatient rounding. Several studies have examined effective teaching strategies during FCR, but none have focused on promoting resident autonomy.

Objective 

The aim of this study was to identify strategies used by attending physicians to promote resident autonomy during FCR.

Methods 

We conducted a qualitative study of attending physicians and residents between December 2012 and February 2013 at an academic children's hospital, where FCR is the standard model for inpatient rounds. Attending physicians participated in individual interviews, and residents participated in 1 of 2 focus groups separated by level of training. Focus group and interview transcripts were coded and themed using qualitative content analysis.

Results 

Ten attending physicians and 14 residents participated in interviews and focus groups. Attending physician behaviors that promoted resident autonomy included setting clear expectations, preforming a prerounds huddle, deliberate positioning, and delegating teaching responsibilities. These were further categorized as occurring during 1 of 4 distinct periods: (1) at the start of the rotation; (2) before daily FCR; (3) during daily FCR; and (4) after daily FCR.

Conclusions 

Residents and attending physicians identified similar strategies to promote resident autonomy during FCR. These strategies occurred during several distinct periods that were not limited to rounds. The results suggest strategies for attending physicians to help balance appropriate and safe patient care with developing resident autonomy in the clinical setting.
Formation of Highly Oxygenated Low-Volatility Products from Cresol Oxidation
Authors: Schwantes Rebecca H. , Schilling Katherine A. , McVay Renee C. , Lignell Hanna , Coggon Matthew M. , Zhang Xuan , Wennberg Paul O. , Seinfeld John H.
Published: October 2016

Abstract. Hydroxyl radical (OH) oxidation of toluene produces the ring-retaining products cresol and benzaldehyde, and the ring-opening products bicyclic intermediate compounds and epoxides. Here, first- and later-generation OH oxidation products from cresol and benzaldehyde are identified in laboratory chamber experiments. For benzaldehyde, first-generation ring-retaining products are identified, but later-generation products are not detected. For cresol, low-volatility (saturation mass concentration, C* ~ 3.5 × 104–7.7 × 10−3 μg m−3) first- and later-generation ring-retaining products are identified. Subsequent OH addition to the aromatic ring of o-cresol leads to compounds such as hydroxy, dihydroxy, and trihydroxy methyl benzoquinones and dihydroxy, trihydroxy, tetrahydroxy, and pentahydroxy toluenes. These products are detected in the gas phase by chemical ionization mass spectrometry (CIMS) and in the particle phase using offline direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry (DART-MS). Our data suggest that the yield of trihydroxy toluene from dihydroxy toluene is substantial. While an exact yield cannot be reported as authentic standards are unavailable, we find that a yield for trihydroxy toluene from dihydroxy toluene of ~ 0.7 (equal to the yield of dihydroxy toluene from o-cresol) is consistent with experimental results for o-cresol oxidation under low-NO conditions. These results suggest that even though the cresol pathway accounts for only ~ 20 % of the oxidation products of toluene, it is the source of a significant fraction (~ 20–40 %) of toluene secondary organic aerosol (SOA) due to the formation of low-volatility products.
Development of a portable Cavity Enhanced Absorption Spectrometer for the measurement of ambient N2O5: experimental setup, lab characterizations, and field applications under polluted urban environment
Authors: Wang Haichao , Chen Jun , Lu Keding
Published: October 2016

Abstract. A small and portable incoherent broadband cavity enhanced absorption spectrometer (IBBCEAS) for the dinitrogen pentoxide (N2O5) measurement has been developed. The instrument is featured with a mechanically aligned nonadjustable optical mounting system. To minimize the influence of the aerosol extinction and strong nonlinear absorption by water vapor, a dynamic reference spectrum with NO titration is used for the spectrum analysis. The range of spectrum fitting is 640–680 nm. Moreover, the wall losses of NO3 and N2O5 on the surface of the inlet and cavity tubes were extensively characterized. We determined that the surface reactivity for the heated PFA materials toward NO3 and N2O5 is 0.16 s−1 ± 0.04 s−1 and 0.019 s−1 ± 0.004 s−1, respectively. The N2O5 transmission efficiencies over the filter is 93 % (± 3 %). For the typical field experimental set up we used, the total transmission efficiency is about 82.9 %, the optimal limit of the detection (LOD) is estimated as 1.9 ppt (1σ) at 50 s intervals, the total uncertainty of the N2O5 measurement is 15 %, which is dominated by the uncertainty of the NO3 cross section calculated for 353 K in this system. Our instrument has been successfully deployed in two comprehensive field campaigns conducted in northern rural areas of Beijing in 2016. In both campaigns, the new design of the optical mounting system enabled us a fast setup and stable running of the IBBCEAS system for the detection of N2O5. High concentrations of N2O5. up to 1 ppb were detected for the two campaigns indicating an active nighttime chemistry presented in rural Beijing.
Oxygen utilization and downward carbon flux in an oxygen-depleted eddy in
the eastern tropical North Atlantic
Authors: Fiedler Björn , Grundle Damian S. , Schütte Florian , Karstensen Johannes , Löscher Carolin R. , Hauss Helena , Wagner Hannes , Loginova Alexandra , Kiko Rainer , Silva Péricles , Tanhua Toste , Körtzinger Arne
Published: October 2016

Abstract. The occurrence of mesoscale eddies that develop suboxic environments at shallow depth (about 40–100 m) has recently been reported for the eastern tropical North Atlantic (ETNA). Their hydrographic structure suggests that the water mass inside the eddy is well isolated from ambient waters supporting the development of severe near-surface oxygen deficits. So far, hydrographic and biogeochemical characterization of these eddies was limited to a few autonomous surveys, with the use of moorings, underwater gliders and profiling floats. In this study we present results from the first dedicated biogeochemical survey of one of these eddies conducted in March 2014 near the Cape Verde Ocean Observatory (CVOO). During the survey the eddy core showed oxygen concentrations as low as 5 µmol kg−1 with a pH of around 7.6 at approximately 100 m depth. Correspondingly, the aragonite saturation level dropped to 1 at the same depth, thereby creating unfavorable conditions for calcifying organisms. To our knowledge, such enhanced acidity within near-surface waters has never been reported before for the open Atlantic Ocean. Vertical distributions of particulate organic matter and dissolved organic matter (POM and DOM), generally showed elevated concentrations in the surface mixed layer (0–70 m), with DOM also accumulating beneath the oxygen minimum. With the use of reference data from the upwelling region where these eddies are formed, the oxygen utilization rate was calculated by determining oxygen consumption through the remineralization of organic matter. Inside the core, we found these rates were almost 1 order of magnitude higher (apparent oxygen utilization rate (aOUR); 0.26 µmol kg−1 day−1) than typical values for the open North Atlantic. Computed downward fluxes for particulate organic carbon (POC), were around 0.19 to 0.23 g C m−2 day−1 at 100 m depth, clearly exceeding fluxes typical for an oligotrophic open-ocean setting. The observations support the view that the oxygen-depleted eddies can be viewed as isolated, westwards propagating upwelling systems of their own, thereby represent re-occurring alien biogeochemical environments in the ETNA.
On Coupled Unsaturated-Saturated Flow Process Induced by Vertical, Horizontal and Slant Wells in Unconfined Aquifers
Authors: Liang Xiuyu , Zhan Hongbin , Zhang You-Kuan , Liu Jin
Published: October 2016

Abstract. Conventional models of pumping tests in unconfined aquifers often neglect the unsaturated flow process. This study concerns coupled unsaturated-saturated flow process induced by vertical, horizontal, and slant wells positioned in an unconfined aquifer. A mathematical model is established with special consideration of the coupled unsaturated-saturated flow process and well orientation. Groundwater flow in the saturated zone is described by a three-dimensional governing equation, and a linearized three-dimensional Richards' equation in the unsaturated zone. A solution in Laplace domain is derived by the Laplace-finite Fourier transform and the method of separation of variables. It is found that the unsaturated zone has significant effects on the drawdown of pumping test with any angle of inclination of the pumping well, and this impact is more significant for the case of a horizontal well. The effects of unsaturated zone on the drawdown are independent of the length of the horizontal well screen. For the early time of pumping, the water volume drained from the unsaturated zone (W) increases with time, and gradually approaches an asymptotic value with time progress. The vertical well leads to the largest W value during the early time, and the effects of the well orientation become insignificant at the later time. The screen length of the horizontal well does not affect W for the whole pumping period. The proposed solutions are useful for parameter identification of pumping tests with a general well orientation (vertical, horizontal, and slant) in unconfined aquifers affected from above by the unsaturated flow process.
The Bosna River floods in May 2014
Authors: Vidmar Andrej , Globevnik Lidija , Koprivšek Maja , Sečnik Matej , Zabret Katarina , Đurović Blažo , Anzeljc Darko , Kastelic Janez , Kobold Mira , Sušnik Mojca , Borojevič Darko , Kupusović Tarik , Kupusović Esena , Vihar Anja , Brilly Mitja
Published: October 2016

Abstract. In May 2014, extreme floods occurred in the lower Sava River basin, causing major damage, with catastrophic consequences. Based on the data gathered, the weather situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina's (BiH) Bosna River basin was analysed and the hydrological conditions were provided, including the results of the probability analysis of the size of the recorded precipitation and flow rates. According to the observed data, extremely high precipitation intensities produced specific discharges of 1.0 m3 s−1 km−2. A hydrological model of the Bosna River basin was developed using HBV light for the purposes of reconstructing and forecasting such events more effectively. All analyses confirmed that the May 2014 event was an extreme extraordinary event whose return period greatly exceeds 100 years. The study is the basis for further flood safety measures and flood forecast development in the Bosna River basin.
Book Review: Maximizing Electronic Resources Management in Libraries: Applying Business Process Management
Authors: Seymour-Green Marie
Published: October 2016

One of the themes emphasized throughout Maximizing Electronic Resources Management in Libraries is that Electronic Resource Management (ERM) is a form of knowledge work that is complex, patchworked and often does not lend itself to routine. Expertise in the subject is gained over time and through the experience of grappling with different issues and solving a variety of problems. The other theme is effective organization of electronic resources is critical to the success of libraries and to the institutions of which they are a part (1, 9).
Fructans and Mineral Nutrition
Authors: Benkeblia Noureddine
Published: October 2016

Fructan molecules have a history of more than 150 years and ancient peoples used fructans containing plants as food, feed or medicine. The modern history of fructans began with their discovery by Rose (1804) and known at the turn of the 20th century considerable development with Edelman's proposal concerning their metabolism in higher plant. At present time, fructans are considered food not food ingredients, and are found in more than 500 food products resulting in significant daily consumption. Because the science of nutrition itself has changed, fructans are now considered as functional foods and the passionate history of their health benefits continues to arise interest of scientists. Contrary to the fact that non-digestible carbohydrates have been accused of causing an impairment in the small intestine absorption of minerals, research conducted during the last three decades demonstrated that fructans enhanced mineral absorption, and the scientific evidence claiming that fructans enhance mineral absorption is based on both animal and human experiments which are very conclusive. Although different hypotheses have been proposed to explain the roles of fructans in enhancing minerals absorption, the mechanisms behind this enhancement are still unclear, even though investigation have demonstrated that different fructans-related mechanisms may be involved in the increased absorption of minerals due to fructans intake. This review paper aims to report on the recent development and the roles of fructans in enhancing mineral absorption and their deficiencies prevention.
Polycomb enables primitive endoderm lineage priming in embryonic stem cells
Authors: Illingworth Robert S , Hölzenspies Jurriaan J , Roske Fabian V , Bickmore Wendy A , Brickman Joshua M
Published: October 2016

Mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs), like the blastocyst from which they are derived, contain precursors of the epiblast (Epi) and primitive endoderm (PrEn) lineages. While transient in vivo, these precursor populations readily interconvert in vitro. We show that altered transcription is the driver of these coordinated changes, known as lineage priming, in a process that exploits novel polycomb activities. We find that intragenic levels of the polycomb mark H3K27me3 anti-correlate with changes in transcription, irrespective of the gene’s developmental trajectory or identity as a polycomb target. In contrast, promoter proximal H3K27me3 is markedly higher for PrEn priming genes. Consequently, depletion of this modification stimulates the degree to which ESCs are primed towards PrEn when challenged to differentiate, but has little effect on gene expression in self-renewing ESC culture. These observations link polycomb with dynamic changes in transcription and stalled lineage commitment, allowing cells to explore alternative choices prior to a definitive decision.
A cellular and regulatory map of the GABAergic nervous system of C. elegans
Authors: Gendrel Marie , Atlas Emily G , Hobert Oliver
Published: October 2016

Neurotransmitter maps are important complements to anatomical maps and represent an invaluable resource to understand nervous system function and development. We report here a comprehensive map of neurons in the C. elegans nervous system that contain the neurotransmitter GABA, revealing twice as many GABA-positive neuron classes as previously reported. We define previously unknown glia-like cells that take up GABA, as well as 'GABA uptake neurons' which do not synthesize GABA but take it up from the extracellular environment, and we map the expression of previously uncharacterized ionotropic GABA receptors. We use the map of GABA-positive neurons for a comprehensive analysis of transcriptional regulators that define the GABA phenotype. We synthesize our findings of specification of GABAergic neurons with previous reports on the specification of glutamatergic and cholinergic neurons into a nervous system-wide regulatory map which defines neurotransmitter specification mechanisms for more than half of all neuron classes in C. elegans.