bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Real Time Simulation of Artificial Intelligent Based MPP Tracker for Photo-Voltaic System
Authors: Letha Shimi Sudha , Thakur Tilak , Kumar Jagdish , Karanjkar Dnyaneshwar , Chatterji Santanu
Published: March 2016

This paper presents an Artificial Intelligent based Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) of a photo-voltaic system implementation using dSPACE 1104. The paper also proposes a novel Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) / Constant Voltage Tracker (CVT) for a photovoltaic (PV) powered multilevel inverter which requires a fixed constant dc voltage at its input. The MPPT algorithms viz. perturb and observe, incremental conductance, neural network, ANFIS and ANFIS/CVT have been designed and implemented on laboratory prototype. The modeling of various MPPT algorithms have been done on MATLAB/SIMULINK platform. Real time simulations have been carried out using dSPACE R&D controller board and CONTROLDESK software. The performance comparisons of various MPPT techniques applied to stand-alone PV system with resistive load have been presented for varying solar radiation conditions. The authors hope that the comparative analysis presented in this work will be helpful for further research.
Thermoeconomic Indicators of Air Conditioning in a River Ship to Change the Configuration of Their Thermal Insulation
Authors: Fajardo J. , Sarria B. , Guerra M. Alvarez
Published: March 2016

This work has as object of study the energy of a river ship air conditioning system performance, using fiberglass, polyurethane or rockwool as insulation. Thermoeconomics Indicators based on second law of thermodynamics which take into account the quality of the energy and the cost of the exergy were used for research. It was observed that: (i) by increasing the thickness of the insulation the irreversibilities decreased, (ii) increases in the destroyed exergy increased generation of cooling load costs and (iii) costs per unit of exergy of heat load and area for the generation of cooling load and for investment in exergetic insulation, were minors for polyurethane.
COBRA-TF Simulation of Fuel Thermal Response During Reactivity Initiated Accidents Using the NSRR Pulse Irradiation Experiments
Authors: Kucukboyaci Vefa N. , Cao Liping , Sung Yixing
Published: March 2016

COBRA-TF (Coolant Boiling in Rod Arrays – Two Fluid) or CTF is a transient subchannel code, selected to be the reactor core thermal hydraulic (T/H) simulation tool in the multi-physics code development project of the Consortium for Advanced Simulation of Light Water Reactor (CASL) sponsored by the US Department of Energy. CTF is currently being evaluated and further improved by CASL as part of its multi-physics software package to help the nuclear industry address operational and safety challenge problems, such as Departure from Nucleate Boiling (DNB) and Reactivity Initiated Accidents (RIA). In this paper, CTF’s capability for transient fuel thermal analysis, including DNB prediction is evaluated by modeling and simulating power burst experiments with high burnup PWR fuel rods, conducted at the Nuclear Safety Research Reactor (NSRR) in Japan. The experiments were a series of tests performed using pulse irradiation capability of the reactor to evaluate fuel rod failure with respect to fuel enthalpy, coolant conditions, and fuel design during RIAs such as control rod ejection. Specific to this study, the experiments using the Takahama-3 reactor fuel segments have been modeled and simulated to evaluate CTF’s prediction capability for DNB onset, fuel rod thermal response, and heat transfer from single-phase to post-CHF during fast RIA transients.
Urban Wind: Effects of Structural Geometry
Authors: Grayson M. , Garcia E.
Published: March 2016

Wind power continues to be produced by large-scale wind farms in remote areas. Supplying urban areas requires that this power be transmitted over vast distances. Generating power locally in urban cities not only decreases transmission distances but reduces external demand by using the harvested energy on site. A crucial element in the use of wind in the built environment as a source of energy is finding ways to maximize its flow. As flow approaches the windward façade of a building’s structure, it is disturbed, causing an increase in velocity both at the roof’s edge and above the separation bubble. Energy harvesting devices are usually placed in this flow region. The aim of this study is to further investigate the accelerated flow by modifying the building’s structure to be a concentrator of the wind, thereby maximizing the available wind power. Using computational fluid dynamics, sloped façades at varying angles were investigated. Simulations show that at an angle of 30°, the velocity is amplified by more than 100% at the separation point directly above the roof’s leading edge. Currently, wind tunnel experiments simulating flow behavior are being conducted and it is expected that analysis of the data will validate and support the findings presented.
Directly Coupled Photovoltaic-Electrolyzer System Optimization Using a Novel ICA Methodology
Authors: Sayedin Farid , Maroufmashat Azadeh , Sattari Sourena
Published: March 2016

Hydrogen is considered to be the fuel of the future. It is a cleaner alternative to the fossil fuels we consume every day. Of all the different hydrogen production pathways that exist, producing the gas by utilizing the power generated by renewable energy sources has been a topic of interest for many researchers across the world. The following work focuses on minimizing the energy loss by optimizing the size and the operating conditions of an electrolyzer directly connected to a photovoltaic (PV) module at different irradiance. The hydrogen, in the proposed system, is produced using a proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer. A nonlinear method is considered, because of the complexity of the system and the variation in maximum power points (MPP) of the PV module throughout the year. A generic model has been also developed to determine the performance of photovoltaic-electrolyzer (PV/EL) system. Additionally, a whole year weather data set is employed to estimate annual electricity generation, I–V curves and MPPs of the PV module.

This work also proposes a novel optimization algorithm based on the imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA) to optimize the PV/EL system. By this approach, the optimal size and operating condition of an electrolyzer directly connected to a PV module is determined. The results demonstrate that for the given location and the PV system utilized in the study, the energy transfer efficiency of PV/EL system can reach up to 98.51%. Furthermore, it is also found that ICA algorithm quickly converges to a good solution, and by this method, deriving optimal parameters for each selected system can be possible.
Exergy, Exergoeconomic and Exergoenvironomic Analyses of Selected Gas Turbine Power Plants in Nigeria
Authors: Fagbenle Richard Olayiwola , Adefila Sunday Sam , Oyedepo Sunday , Odunfa Moradeyo
Published: March 2016

Energy supply trends as well as environmental regulations and climate change issues have made it necessary to closely scrutinize the way energy is utilized. Efficient energy utilization thus requires paying more attention to accurate and advanced thermodynamic analysis of thermal systems. Hence, methods aimed at evaluating the performances of energy systems take into account the Energy, Environment and Economics. Therefore, the first and second law of thermodynamics combined with economics and environmental impact represents a very powerful tool for the systematic study and optimization of energy systems. In this study, a thermodynamic analysis of eleven selected gas turbine power plants in Nigeria was carried out using the first and second laws of thermodynamics, economic and environmental impact concepts. Exergetic, exergo-economic and exergo-environmental analyses were conducted using operating data obtained from the power plants to determine the exergy destruction and exergy efficiency of each major component of the gas turbine in each power plant. The exergy analysis confirmed that the combustion chamber is the most exergy destructive component compared to other cycle components as expected. The percentage exergy destruction in combustion chamber varied between 86.05 and 94.6%. Increasing the gas turbine inlet temperature (GTIT), the exergy destruction of this component can be reduced. Exergo-economic analysis showed that the cost of exergy destruction is high in the combustion chamber and by increasing the GTIT effectively decreases this cost. The exergy costing analysis revealed that the unit cost of electricity produced in the plants ranged from cents 1.88/kWh (₦2.99/kWh) to cents 5.65/kWh (₦8.98/kWh). Exergo-environmental analysis showed that the CO2 emissions varied between 100.18 to 408.78 kgCO2/MWh while cost rate of environmental impact varied from 40.18 $/h (N6, 388.62/h) to 276.97 $/h (N44, 038.23/h). The results further showed that CO2 emissions and cost of environmental impact decrease with increasing GTIT.
Mental Fatigue: Impairment of Technical Performance in Small-Sided Soccer Games
Authors: Badin Oliver O. , Smith Mitchell R. , Conte Daniele , Coutts Aaron J.
Published: March 2016

Purpose:

To assess the effects of mental fatigue on physical and technical performance in small-sided soccer games.

Methods:

Twenty soccer players (age 17.8 ± 1.0 y, height 179 ± 5 cm, body mass 72.4 ± 6.8 kg, playing experience 8.3 ± 1.4 y) from an Australian National Premier League soccer club volunteered to participate in this randomized crossover investigation. Participants played 15-min 5-vs-5 small-sided games (SSGs) without goalkeepers on 2 occasions separated by 1 wk. Before the SSG, 1 team watched a 30-min emotionally neutral documentary (control), while the other performed 30 min of a computer-based Stroop task (mental fatigue). Subjective ratings of mental and physical fatigue were recorded before and after treatment and after the SSG. Motivation was assessed before treatment and SSG; mental effort was assessed after treatment and SSG. Player activity profiles and heart rate (HR) were measured throughout the SSG, whereas ratings of perceived exertion (RPEs) were recorded before the SSG and immediately after each half. Video recordings of the SSG allowed for notational analysis of technical variables.

Results:

Subjective ratings of mental fatigue and effort were higher after the Stroop task, whereas motivation for the upcoming SSG was similar between conditions. HR during the SSG was possibly higher in the control condition, whereas RPE was likely higher in the mental-fatigue condition. Mental fatigue had an unclear effect on most physical-performance variables but impaired most technical-performance variables.

Conclusions:

Mental fatigue impairs technical but not physical performance in small-sided soccer games.
Secreted Compounds of the Probiotic Bacillus clausii Strain O/C Inhibit the Cytotoxic Effects Induced by Clostridium difficile and Bacillus cereus Toxins
Authors: Ripert Gabrielle , Racedo Silvia M. , Elie Anne-Marie , Jacquot Claudine , Bressollier Philippe , Urdaci Maria C.
Published: March 2016

Although the use of probiotics based on
Bacillus
strains to fight off intestinal pathogens and antibiotic-associated diarrhea is widespread, the mechanisms involved in producing their beneficial effects remain unclear. Here, we studied the ability of compounds secreted by the probiotic
Bacillus clausii
strain O/C to counteract the cytotoxic effects induced by toxins of two pathogens,
Clostridium difficile
and
Bacillus cereus
, by evaluating eukaryotic cell viability and expression of selected genes. Coincubation of
C. difficile
and
B. cereus
toxic culture supernatants with the
B. clausii
supernatant completely prevented the damage induced by toxins in Vero and Caco-2 cells. The hemolytic effect of
B. cereus
was also avoided by the probiotic supernatant. Moreover, in these cells, the expression of
rhoB
, encoding a Rho GTPase target for
C. difficile
toxins, was normalized when
C. difficile
supernatant was pretreated using the
B. clausii
supernatant. All of the beneficial effects observed with the probiotic were abolished by the serine protease inhibitor phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride (PMSF). Suspecting the involvement of a secreted protease in this protective effect, a protease was purified from the
B. clausii
supernatant and identified as a serine protease (M-protease; GenBank accession number
Q99405
). Experiments on Vero cells demonstrated the antitoxic activity of the purified protease against pathogen supernatants. This is the first report showing the capacity of a protease secreted by probiotic bacteria to inhibit the cytotoxic effects of toxinogenic
C. difficile
and
B. cereus
strains. This extracellular compound could be responsible, at least in part, for the protective effects observed for this human probiotic in antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
Chloroquine-induced bilateral anterior shoulder dislocation: a unique aetiology for a rare clinical problem
Authors: Martin Alexander Nicholas , Tsekes Dimitris , White William James , Rossouw Dan
Published: March 2016

Bilateral anterior shoulder dislocation is a rare clinical entity with few case reports and limited series published in the literature. Bilateral shoulder dislocations are rare and of them, most are posterior. We present a highly unusual case of bilateral, atraumatic, anterior shoulder dislocation with concomitant comminuted greater tuberosity fracture on the right side, secondary to seizure, in a patient without known epilepsy, induced by oral chloroquine medication. We demonstrate the treatment approach that led to a satisfactory clinical outcome, evidenced by radiological union, clinical assessment and Patient Reported Outcome Measure data, following non-operative management of both shoulders. The unusual mechanism for anterior shoulder dislocation, the asymmetric dislocation pattern and peculiar precipitant for the causative seizure all provide interesting learning points from this case.
Embolic superior mesenteric artery (SMA) occlusion secondary to a cardiac sarcoma
Authors: Robinson Alexander , Woodman Thomas , Ozdemir Baris , Phaily Ary
Published: March 2016

We present a case of embolic acute mesenteric ischaemia (AMI) secondary to an underlying cardiac sarcoma, an exceedingly rare presentation only reported twice before. A 46-year-old man presented to accident and emergency department during the night with severe abdominal pain and vomiting. An urgent CT angiograph demonstrated superior mesenteric artery (SMA) occlusion with ischaemic small bowel. Joint surgical effort from vascular and general surgeons successfully recanalised the SMA and a 20 cm segment of small bowel was resected. Postoperatively, an echocardiogram demonstrated a mass within the left atrium. After cardiothoracic resection, the mass was found to be a rare undifferentiated cardiac sarcoma. Further staining on the embolus retrieved from the SMA revealed scattered spindle cells with a similar immunohistochemistry profile to that of the resected cardiac sarcoma. The patient was subsequently discharged well on lifelong warfarin.
Foot drop following closed reduction of a total hip replacement
Authors: Ng Jimmy , Marson Ben Arthur , Broodryk Alan
Published: March 2016

Sciatic nerve palsy has been well documented and reported, following primary and revision hip replacement. It can also occur following dislocation of hip replacement. The incidence of sciatic nerve palsy in dislocated hip replacement is <0.1%. However, new onset sciatic nerve palsy following a closed reduction of dislocated hip replacement is even rarer. We describe a case of sciatic nerve palsy from traction injury following closed reduction of a total hip replacement.
Comparative analysis of premature mortality among urban immigrants in Bremen, Germany: a retrospective register-based linkage study
Authors: Makarova Nataliya , Brand Tilman , Brünings-Kuppe Claudia , Pohlabeln Hermann , Luttmann Sabine
Published: March 2016

Objectives

The main objective of this study was to explore differences in mortality patterns among two large immigrant groups in Germany: one from Turkey and the other from the former Soviet Union (FSU). To this end, we investigated indicators of premature mortality.

Design

This study was conducted as a retrospective population-based study based on mortality register linkage. Using mortality data for the period 2004–2010, we calculated age-standardised death rates (SDR) and standardised mortality ratios (SMR) for premature deaths (<age 65 years). We computed years of potential life lost (YPLL) and analysed the underlying causes of death contributing to premature mortality.

Setting and participants

In this study, we made use of the unique possibilities of register-based research in relation to migration and health. Analyses were performed in three population groups in the federal state of Bremen, Germany: immigrants from Turkey, those from the FSU and the general population.

Results

The SDRs for premature deaths of the two immigrant groups were lower compared to those of the general population. The SMRs remained under 1. Using the indicator of YPLL, we observed higher age-standardised YPLL rates among immigrant populations, particularly among males from the FSU compared to females and population groups 4238/100 000, 95% CI (4119 to 4358). Regarding main causes of premature death, we found larger contributions of infant mortality and diseases of the respiratory system among Turkish immigrants, and of injuries and poisonings, and mental and behavioural disorders among immigrants from the FSU.

Conclusions

While the overall trends favour the immigrant populations, the indicator of YPLL and cause-specific results indicate areas where the healthcare systems responsiveness may need to be improved, including preventive services. Further work with broader databases providing a similar level of differentiation is necessary to substantiate these findings.
Women's knowledge and attitudes surrounding abortion in Zambia: a cross-sectional survey across three provinces
Authors: Cresswell Jenny A , Schroeder Rosalyn , Dennis Mardieh , Owolabi Onikepe , Vwalika Bellington , Musheke Maurice , Campbell Oona , Filippi Veronique
Published: March 2016

Objectives

In Zambia, despite a relatively liberal legal framework, there remains a substantial burden of unsafe abortion. Many women do not use skilled providers in a well-equipped setting, even where these are available. The aim of this study was to describe women's knowledge of the law relating to abortion and attitudes towards abortion in Zambia.

Setting

Community-based survey in Central, Copperbelt and Lusaka provinces.

Participants

1484 women of reproductive age (15–44 years).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Correct knowledge of the legal grounds for abortion, attitudes towards abortion services and the previous abortions of friends, family or other confidants. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were used to analyse how knowledge and attitudes varied according to sociodemographic characteristics.

Results

Overall, just 16% (95% CI 11% to 21%) of women of reproductive age correctly identified the grounds for which abortion is legal. Only 40% (95% CI 32% to 45% of women of reproductive age knew that abortion was legally permitted in the extreme situation where the pregnancy threatens the life of the mother. Even in urban areas of Lusaka province, only 55% (95% CI 41% to 67%) of women knew that an abortion could legally take place to save the mother's life. Attitudes remain conservative. Women with correct knowledge of abortion law in Zambia tended to have more liberal attitudes towards abortion and access to safe abortion services. Neither correct knowledge of the law nor attitudes towards abortion were associated with knowing someone who previously had an induced abortion.

Conclusions

Poor knowledge and conservative attitudes are important obstacles to accessing safe abortion services. Changing knowledge and attitudes can be challenging for policymakers and public health practitioners alike. Zambia could draw on its previous experience in dealing with its large HIV epidemic to learn cross-cutting lessons in effective mass communication on what is a difficult and sensitive issue.
Cardiac rehabilitation referral and enrolment across an academic health sciences centre with eReferral and peer navigation: a randomised controlled pilot trial
Authors: Ali-Faisal Sobia F , Benz Scott Lisa , Johnston Lauren , Grace Sherry L
Published: March 2016

Objectives

To describe (1) cardiac rehabilitation (CR) referral across cardiac units in a tertiary centre with eReferral; (2) characteristics associated with CR referral and enrolment and (3) the effects of peer navigation (PN) on referral and enrolment. This pilot was a 2 parallel-arm, randomised, single-blind trial with allocation concealment.

Setting

3 cardiac units (ie, interventional, general cardiology, and cardiac surgery) in 1 of 2 hospitals of a tertiary centre.

Participants

CR-eligible adult cardiac inpatients were randomised to PN or usual care. 94 (54.7%) patients consented, of which 46 (48.9%) were randomised to PN. Outcomes were ascertained in 76 (80.9%) participants.

Intervention

The PN (1) visited participant at the bedside, (2) mailed a card to participant's home reminding about CR and (3) called participant 2 weeks postdischarge to discuss CR barriers.

Outcome measures

The primary outcome of enrolment was defined as participant attendance at a scheduled CR intake appointment (yes/no). The secondary outcome was referral. Blinded outcome assessment was conducted 12 weeks postdischarge, via CR chart extraction.

Results

Those who received care on the cardiac surgery unit (77.9%) were more likely to be referred than those treated on the general cardiology (61.1%) or interventional unit (33.3%; p=0.04). Patients who had cardiac surgery, hypertension and hyperlipidaemia were significantly more likely, and those with congenital heart disease, cancer and a previous cardiac diagnosis were less likely to be referred. Participants referred to a site closer to home (76.2% of those referred) were more likely to enrol than those not (23.7%, p<0.05). PN had no effect on referral (77.6%, p=0.45) or enrolment (46.0%, p=0.24).

Conclusions

There is wide variability in CR referral, even within academic centres, and despite eReferral. Referral was quite high, and thus, PN did not improve CR utilisation. Results support triaging patients to the CR programme closest to their home.

Trial registration number

NCT02204449; Results.
Water retention and volumetric characteristics of intact and re-compacted loess
Authors: Ng Charles Wang Wai , Sadeghi Hamed , Hossen S.K. Belal , Chiu C.F. , Alonso Eduardo E. , Baghbanrezvan Sina
Published: March 2016

A laboratory testing program was conducted to investigate the effects of microstructure on the water retention curve (WRC) and wetting–drying induced volume change in loess. The axis translation and vapor equilibrium techniques were adopted to control suction in the range of 0–400 kPa and 4–140 MPa, respectively. Hysteresis in the WRC of loess was observed for the entire range of suction studied. Compared to re-compacted loess, intact loess exhibits a more pronounced hysteresis in the suction range below 20 kPa, which can be explained by the ink-bottle pore neck effect or constricted pores. The hypothesis is supported by microstructural evidence of mercury intrusion porosimetry and scanning electron microscopy tests. However, re-compacted loess exhibits larger hysteresis than intact loess for suctions above 30 kPa. A conceptual model was introduced, which links WRC to the corresponding pore-size density (PSD) function. Regarding volume change, more noticeable drying-induced shrinkage, but yielding at a lower suction, was observed for re-compacted loess. This is consistent with the compression test results. Stress has a significant effect on change of PSD and constricted macropores leading to a shift in the main wetting curve and a less pronounced hysteresis. Intact loess exhibits a stress-dependent wetting-induced collapse and drying-induced shrinkage.
Forest productivity after careful logging and fire in black spruce stands of the Canadian Clay Belt
Authors: Leroy Cécile , Leduc Alain , Thiffault Nelson , Bergeron Yves
Published: March 2016

Some regenerating stands of the boreal forest exhibit low juvenile growth after major disturbances, which compromises sustainable forest management objectives. In black spruce – feather moss stands of eastern Canada subject to paludification, careful logging methods could decrease stand productivity with time by preventing a beneficial reduction in organic soil thickness. The aim of this project was to confirm decreases in juvenile growth between stands originating from careful logging and the former stands originating from old fires on the same sites. Stem analyses showed that stands originating from CPRS had significantly better juvenile height growth than the former stands but significantly lower growth than stands originating from recent fire in the study region. If organic matter thickness apparently played a role in the growth differences observed between fire and harvesting, it was not the only factor determining stand productivity. According to our results, cohort status, climatic regime, and quality of the residual organic matter are other factors that seem to drive productivity. Our results show that postharvest management approaches (e.g., site preparation) should be used to increase yields after harvest for the sites to express their full growth potential.
Anaemia and Iron Homeostasis in a Cohort of HIV-Infected Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study in Ghana
Authors: Obirikorang Christian , Issahaku Razak Gyesi , Osakunor Derick Nii Mensah , Osei-Yeboah James
Published: March 2016

Aim.We determined the prevalence of anaemia and evaluated markers of iron homeostasis in a cohort of HIV patients.Methods.A comparative cross-sectional study on 319 participants was carried out at the Tamale Teaching Hospital from July 2013 to December 2013, 219 patients on HAART (designated On-HAART) and 100 HAART-naive patients. Data gathered include sociodemography, clinical history, and selected laboratory assays.Results.Prevalence of anaemia was 23.8%. On-HAART participants had higher CD4/CD3 lymphocyte counts, Hb, HCT/PCV, MCV, MCH, iron, ferritin, and TSAT (P<0.05). Hb, iron, ferritin, and TSAT decreased from grade 1 to grade 3 anaemia and CD4/CD3 lymphocyte count was lowest in grade 3 anaemia (P<0.05). Iron (P=0.0072) decreased with disease severity whilst transferrin (P=0.0143) and TIBC (P=0.0143) increased with disease severity. Seventy-six (23.8%) participants fulfilled the criteria for anaemia, 86 (26.9%) for iron deficiency, 41 (12.8%) for iron deficiency anaemia, and 17 (5.3%) for iron overload. The frequency of anaemia was higher amongst participants not on HAART (OR 2.6 for grade 1 anaemia; OR 3.0 for grade 3 anaemia).Conclusion.In this study population, HIV-associated anaemia is common and is related to HAART status and disease progression. HIV itself is the most important cause of anaemia and treatment of HIV should be a priority compared to iron supplementation.
Copy Number Variation of UGT 2B Genes in Indian Families Using Whole Genome Scans
Authors: Veerappa Avinash M. , Padakannaya Prakash , Ramachandra Nallur B.
Published: March 2016

Background and Objectives. Uridine diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase 2B (UGT2B) is a family of genes involved in metabolizing steroid hormones and several other xenobiotics. These UGT2B genes are highly polymorphic in nature and have distinct polymorphisms associated with specific regions around the globe. Copy number variations (CNVs) status of UGT2B17 in Indian population is not known and their disease associations have been inconclusive. It was therefore of interest to investigate the CNV profile of UGT2B genes.Methods. We investigated the presence of CNVs in UGT2B genes in 31 members from eight Indian families using Affymetrix Genome-Wide Human SNP Array 6.0 chip.Results. Our data revealed >50% of the study members carried CNVs in UGT2B genes, of which 76% showed deletion polymorphism. CNVs were observed more in UGT2B17 (76.4%) than in UGT2B15 (17.6%). Molecular network and pathway analysis found enrichment related to steroid metabolic process, carboxylesterase activity, and sequence specific DNA binding.Interpretation and Conclusion. We report the presence of UGT2B gene deletion and duplication polymorphisms in Indian families. Network analysis indicates the substitutive role of other possible genes in the UGT activity. The CNVs of UGT2B genes are very common in individuals indicating that the effect is neutral in causing any suspected diseases.
Compression Characteristics of Solid Wastes as Backfill Materials
Authors: Li Meng , Zhang Jixiong , Gao Rui
Published: March 2016

A self-made large-diameter compression steel chamber and a SANS material testing machine were chosen to perform a series of compression tests in order to fully understand the compression characteristics of differently graded filling gangue samples. The relationship between the stress-deformation modulus and stress-compression degree was analyzed comparatively. The results showed that, during compression, the deformation modulus of gangue grew linearly with stress, the overall relationship between stress and compression degree was approximately nonlinear, and the deformation of gangue was rather large during the initial portion of the test. Gangue sample mixed with Talbot Formula provides the best deformation resistance capacity, followed by fully graded and single-graded gangue samples. For applications, with adjustment of the gradation of filling materials and optimal design of compacting equipment, surface subsidence may be better controlled.
Kelvin’s Dissymmetric Models and Consistency Conditions of Multicomponent Gas-Liquid Equilibrium and Capillary Condensation
Authors: Panfilov Mikhail , Koldoba Alexandre
Published: March 2016

To describe phase equilibrium of mixtures, we develop a nonclassical approach based on using different equations of state for gas and liquid. We show that not all the types of EOS are admissible but only those which verify some specific conditions of consistency. We developed the mathematical theory of this new approach for pure cores and for mixtures, in presence and absence of capillary forces, which leads to explicit analytical relationships for phase concentrations of chemical components. Several examples of comparison with experimental data for binary and ternary mixtures illustrate the feasibility of the suggested approach.
Effect of Subject Rotation on Assessment of Esthetic Dental Ratios: A Simulation Study
Authors: Gyawali Rajesh , Pokharel Prabhat Ranjan , Giri Jamal
Published: March 2016

Objective. This study aimed to find out the change in esthetic ratios during rotation of patient’s head using a simulation.Materials and Methods.A plaster study model was photographed placing its midline along the long axis of the camera. Then a series of photographs were taken by rotating the model each degree till 10° on both right and left sides. These photographs were digitally measured and the ratio of the maxillary anterior teeth at zero-degree rotation was compared with that at various degrees of rotation.Results. As the model was rotated to the right side till 10°, the ratio of the right lateral to central incisor gradually decreased while the ratio of the left lateral to central incisor gradually increased. However, the ratio of the canine to lateral incisor on both sides gradually increased. Similar results were obtained when the model was rotated to the left side. The ratio of the lateral to central incisor deviated from the acceptable range (±10%) when there was rotation of more than 7°, whereas the ratio of the canine to lateral incisor was within the acceptable range till 10° rotation on either side.Conclusions. Rotation of the model by more than 7° leads to a substantial change in the esthetic ratio.
Open versus Laparoscopic Surgery: Does the Surgical Technique Influence Pain Outcome? Results from an International Registry
Authors: Allvin Renée , Rawal Narinder , Johanzon Eva , Bäckström Ragnar
Published: March 2016

Postoperative pain management relevant for specific surgical procedures is debated. The importance of evaluating pain with consideration given to type of surgery and the patient’s perspective has been emphasized. In this prospective cohort study, we analysed outcome data from 607 patients in the international PAIN OUT registry for assessment and comparison of postoperative pain outcome within the 24 first hours after laparoscopic and open colonic surgery. Patients from the laparoscopic group scored minimum pain at a higher level than the open group (P=0.012). Apart from minimum pain, no other significant differences in patient reported outcomes were observed. Maximum pain scores >3 were reported from 77% (laparoscopic) and 68% (open) patients (mean ≥ 5 in both groups). Pain interference with mobilization was reported by 87–93% of patients. Both groups scored high levels of patient satisfaction. In the open group, a higher frequency of patients received a combination of general and regional anaesthesia, which had an impact of the minimum pain score. Our results from registry data indicate that surgical technique does not influence the quality of postoperative pain management during the first postoperative day if adequate analgesia is given.
Prediction on Power Produced from Power Turbine as a Waste Heat Recovery Mechanism on Naturally Aspirated Spark Ignition Engine Using Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Herawan Safarudin Gazali , Rohhaizan Abdul Hakim , Ismail Ahmad Faris , Shamsudin Shamsul Anuar , Putra Azma , Musthafah Mohd Tahir , Awang Ardika Ridal
Published: March 2016

The waste heat from exhaust gases represents a significant amount of thermal energy, which has conventionally been used for combined heating and power applications. This paper explores the performance of a naturally aspirated spark ignition engine equipped with waste heat recovery mechanism (WHRM) in a sedan car. The amount of heat energy from exhaust is presented and the experimental test results suggest that the concept is thermodynamically feasible and could significantly enhance the system performance depending on the load applied to the engine. However, the existence of WHRM affects the performance of engine by slightly reducing the power. The simulation method is created using an artificial neural network (ANN) which predicts the power produced from the WHRM.
Parameters Identification of Moving Load Using ANN and Dynamic Strain
Authors: Yang Hui , Yan Weiming , He Haoxiang
Published: March 2016

Moving load identification is an important part of bridge structure health monitoring; accurate and reliable load data can be used to check the load of bridge design, and the load spectrum can provide a more practical basis for structural fatigue analysis. The method of the BP neural network is used in bridge moving loads identification. The numerical examples of identification of the axle loads of a two-axle vehicle moving on a simply supported bridge under various speeds and weights are carried out. The sensitivity of the bridge deflection and strain to moving loads is analyzed, and the influences of different activation function combinations and algorithm on network are discussed. The identification results of different load conditions are analyzed and the effect of noise is considered. Finally the rationality of the method is verified by experiments. It is shown that the indirect estimation of vehicle weight by BP neural network from dynamic responses is feasible.
Pregnancy and Birth Outcomes among Women with Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura
Authors: Wyszynski Diego F. , Carman Wendy J. , Cantor Alan B. , Graham John M. , Kunz Liza H. , Slavotinek Anne M. , Kirby Russell S. , Seeger John
Published: March 2016

Objective. To examine pregnancy and birth outcomes among women with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) or chronic ITP (cITP) diagnosed before or during pregnancy.Methods. A linkage of mothers and babies within a large US health insurance database that combines enrollment data, pharmacy claims, and medical claims was carried out to identify pregnancies in women with ITP or cITP. Outcomes included preterm birth, elective and spontaneous loss, and major congenital anomalies.Results. Results suggest that women diagnosed with ITP or cITP prior to their estimated date of conception may be at higher risk for stillbirth, fetal loss, and premature delivery. Among 446 pregnancies in women with ITP, 346 resulted in live births. Women with cITP experienced more adverse outcomes than those with a pregnancy-related diagnosis of ITP. Although 7.8% of all live births had major congenital anomalies, the majority were isolated heart defects. Among deliveries in women with cITP, 15.2% of live births were preterm.Conclusions. The results of this study provide further evidence that cause and duration of maternal ITP are important determinants of the outcomes of pregnancy.
PBP-2 Negative Methicillin ResistantStaphylococcus schleiferiBacteremia from a Prostate Abscess: An Unusual Occurrence
Authors: Merchant Chandni , Villanueva Daphne-Dominique , Lalani Ishan , Eng Margaret , Kang Yong
Published: March 2016

Staphylococcus schleiferisubsp.schleiferiis a coagulase-negativeStaphylococcuswhich has been described as a pathogen responsible for various nosocomial infections including bacteremia, brain abscess, and infection of intravenous pacemakers. Recently, such bacteria have been described to be found typically on skin and mucosal surfaces. It is also believed to be a part of the preaxillary human flora and more frequently found in men. It is very similar in its pathogenicity withStaphylococcus aureusgroup and expresses a fibronectin binding protein. Literature on this pathogen reveals that it commonly causes otitis among dogs because of its location in the auditory meatus of canines. Also, it has strong association with pyoderma in dogs. The prime concern with this organism is the antibiotic resistance and relapse even after appropriate treatment. Very rarely, if any, cases have been reported about prostatic abscess (PA) with this microbe. Our patient had a history of recurrent UTIs and subsequent PA resulting inS. schleiferibacteremia in contrast to gram negative bacteremia commonly associated with UTI. This organism was found to be resistant to methicillin, in spite of being negative for PBP2, which is a rare phenomenon and needs further studies.
Refractory IgG Warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Treated with Eculizumab: A Novel Application of Anticomplement Therapy
Authors: Ma Kim , Caplan Stephen
Published: March 2016

Warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia (wAIHA) is the most common form of AIHA, with corticosteroids in first-line treatment resulting in a 60–80% response rate. Atypical wAIHA and IgG plus complement mediated disease have a higher treatment failure rate and higher recurrence rate. We report a case of severe wAIHA secondary to Waldenström macroglobulinemia with life threatening intravascular hemolysis refractory to prednisone, rituximab, splenectomy, and plasmapheresis. A four-week treatment of eculizumab in this heavily pretreated patient resulted in a sustained increase in hemoglobin and transfusion independence, suggesting a role for complement inhibition in refractory wAIHA.
Salvage Brachytherapy for Biochemically Recurrent Prostate Cancer following Primary Brachytherapy
Authors: Lacy John M. , Wilson William A. , Bole Raevti , Chen Li , Meigooni Ali S. , Rowland Randall G. , Clair William H. St.
Published: March 2016

Purpose. In this study, we evaluated our experience with salvage brachytherapy after discovery of biochemical recurrence after a prior brachytherapy procedure.Methods and Materials. From 2001 through 2012 twenty-one patients treated by brachytherapy within University of Kentucky or from outside centers developed biochemical failure and had no evidence of metastases. Computed tomography (CT) scans were evaluated; patients who had an underseeded portion of their prostate were considered for reimplantation.Results. The majority of the patients in this study (61.9%) were low risk and median presalvage PSA was 3.49 (range 17.41–1.68). Mean follow-up was 61 months. At last follow-up after reseeding, 11/21 (52.4%) were free of biochemical recurrence. There was a trend towards decreased freedom from biochemical recurrence in low risk patients (p=0.12). International Prostate Symptom Scores (IPSS) increased at 3-month follow-up visits but decreased and were equivalent to baseline scores at 18 months.Conclusions. Salvage brachytherapy after primary brachytherapy is possible; however, in our experience the side-effect profile after the second brachytherapy procedure was higher than after the first brachytherapy procedure. In this cohort of patients we demonstrate that approximately 50% oncologic control, low risk patients appear to have better outcomes than others.
B7-H4(B7x)–Mediated Cross-talk between Glioma-Initiating Cells and Macrophages via the IL6/JAK/STAT3 Pathway Lead to Poor Prognosis in Glioma Patients
Authors: Yao Yu , Ye Hongxing , Qi Zengxin , Mo Lianjie , Yue Qi , Baral Aparajita , Hoon Dave S.B. , Vera Juan Carlos , Heiss John D. , Chen Clark C. , Hua Wei , Zhang Jianmin , Jin Kunlin , Wang Yin , Zang Xingxing , Mao Ying , Zhou Liangfu
Published: March 2016

Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate clinical significance and immunosuppressive mechanisms of B7-H4 (B7x/B7S1), a B7 family member, in glioma.

Experimental Design: B7-H4 levels in glioma tissue/cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) were compared between different grades of glioma patients. Survival data were analyzed with Kaplan–Meier to determine the prognostic value of B7-H4. Cytokines from CD133+ cells to stimulate the expression of B7-H4 on human macrophages (Mϕs) were investigated by FACS, neutralizing antibodies, and Transwell chemotaxis assay. shRNA, reporter vector, and chromatin immunoprecipitation were used to determine the binding of STAT3 to the B7-H4 promoter. The function of B7-H4+ Mϕs in vitro was evaluated through phagocytosis, T-cell proliferation/apoptosis, and cytokine production as well as in the xenografted model for in vivo analysis.

Results: We found that B7-H4 expression in tumors was associated with prognosis of human glioblastoma and correlated directly with malignant grades. Mechanistically, glioma initiating CD133+ cells and Mϕs/microglia cointeraction activated expression of B7-H4 via IL6 and IL10 in both tumor cells and microenvironment supporting cells. IL6-activated STAT3 bound to the promoter of B7-H4 gene and enhanced B7-H4 expression. Furthermore, CD133+ cells mediated immunosuppression through B7-H4 expression on Mϕs/microglia by silencing of B7-H4 expression on these cells, which led to increased microenvironment T-cell function and tumor regression in the xenograft glioma mouse model.

Conclusions: We have identified B7-H4 activation on Mϕs/microglia in the microenvironment of gliomas as an important immunosuppressive event blocking effective T-cell immune responses. Clin Cancer Res; 22(11); 2778–90. ©2016 AACR.
Homeopathic Complex Remedy in the Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis: Results of a Prospective, Multicenter Observational Study
Authors: Trompetter Inga , Lebert Jennifer , Weiß Gabriele
Published: March 2016

Background: Seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR), also known as hay fever, is a widespread chronic respiratory disease. In treatment of SAR the use of complementary therapies is increasing, but little has been published about homeopathic complex remedies so far. Therefore, we think it is time to conduct and publish an appropriate observational study. Methods: Course of single symptoms, impairment of quality of life, general efficacy, and tolerability of a homeopathic complex remedy containing active substances on a low dilution level have been assessed and analyzed. Altogether, 123 patients with a history of allergic rhinitis of up to 45 years have been observed for about 4 weeks. Results: The majority of symptoms were shown to improve substantially and the patients' quality of life increased clearly. The overall symptom score decreased significantly from 10.3 ± 4.7 to 3.9 ± 3.1 points (p < 0.0001), and reduction of impairment of quality of life from 5.7 ± 2.3 to 1.9 ± 1.8 score points was also significant (p < 0.0001). Rating of efficacy of study medication was markedly better than efficacy rating of previous therapies (p = 0.0193). Apart from one temporary allergic reaction, the treatment was well tolerated. Conclusion: The homeopathic complex remedy (Pascallerg®) tested in this observational study offers a useful option in treatment of SAR in children and adults.
How to Handle Worsening of Condition during Treatment - Risk Assessment in Homeopathic Practice
Authors: Stub Trine , Salamonsen Anita , Kristoffersen Agnete , Musial Frauke
Published: March 2016

Even though homeopathy is regarded as a harmless intervention, homeopathic practice may not be entirely risk-free. Risk in homeopathy can be divided into direct and indirect risk. Direct risk refers to traditional adverse effects of an intervention; indirect risk is related to adverse effects in a treatment context, e.g. the practitioner. Available data suggest that the risk profile of homeopathic remedies in ultra-molecular potencies is minor, but there is a potential for indirect risk related to homeopathic practice. The concept of ‘homeopathic aggravation' which is unique for homeopathy may impose a particular risk as it allows the health status of the patients to deteriorate before there is a possible improvement. In that respect it is imperative to distinguish homeopathic aggravations from adverse effects. In a general risk evaluation of the homeopathic treatment it may be useful to assess the patient's symptoms in accordance with the natural course of disease and to evaluate any negative deviation from the normal curve as a possible adverse effect of the treatment. It is imperative that more emphasis is placed on patient safety during the education in homeopathy, and that students are trained to identify serious and red flag situations.
A Homeopathic Combination Preparation in the Treatment of Feverish Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: An International Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Thinesse-Mallwitz Manuela , Maydannik Vitaly , Keller Thomas , Klement Petra
Published: March 2016

Background: Upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) are very common and associated with considerable healthcare costs. We evaluated the clinical benefit of a homeopathic add-on therapy. Patients and Methods: In this randomized controlled multinational clinical trial, patients (age range 1-65 years) with feverish URTI received either on-demand symptomatic standard treatment (ST group: paracetamol, ambroxol, and/or oxymetazoline), or homeopathic medication (IFC group: Influcid®) for 7 days plus the same on-demand standard treatment. URTI symptoms were assessed using the Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey-21. Response at day 4, defined as absence of fever and absence or very mild degree of URTI symptoms, was the primary outcome measure. Results: 523 patients (265 IFC group, 258 ST group) were randomized in 12 Ukrainian and 10 German centers. The responder rate on day 4 was 15.4% in the IFC group and 6.7% in the ST group (ΔIFC-ST = 8.7%, 95% confidence interval 2.9-14.5%). The IFC group used less symptomatic medication, and symptoms were alleviated 1-2 days earlier. 3 and 8 adverse events (AEs) in the IFC and ST group, respectively, were assessed as possibly treatment-related; 2 out of the 3 AEs in the IFC group were possibly related to symptomatic therapy, 1 (vomiting) to IFC treatment. Conclusion: The homeopathic treatment shortened URTI duration, reduced the use of symptomatic medication, and was well tolerated.