bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The experience of pain and patient satisfaction with dental implant-prosthetic treatment
Authors: Szymańska Jolanta , Koszuta Agnieszka
Published: June 2013

The absence of pain in implant-prosthetic treatment is considered, along with other factors, one of the indicators of treatment success, which undoubtedly translates into patient satisfaction. The aim of this study was the assessment of the influence of pain experienced during implant-prosthetic treatment on the level of patient satisfaction with this kind of treatment. The study was conducted in the Non-Public Health Care Centre “Dental” in Tomaszów Mazowiecki and covered 464 patients of both genders, aged 20-74, who had missing teeth replaced with dental implants. The patients answered the questions included in a written questionnaire. The questions concerned the experience of pain and the level of satisfaction with the received treatment. The study shows that pain was experienced by a little more than 1/3 of all the studied patients during implant placement, and by 81.25% of the respondents after implant placement. The patients who felt pain during and after implant placement would less frequently decide to have missing teeth replaced with this method again, and were more frequently of the opinion that costs and duration of treatment did not reflect their level of satisfaction with treatment in comparison to the patients who did not feel pain. The respondents who experienced pain during implant placement would recommend this treatment method to other people less frequently than the patients who felt no pain. The results indicate that Implant-prosthetic treatment is accompanied with pain experience in a considerable proportion of patients. Pain experienced during treatment affects the level of patient satisfaction and future decisions concerning the choice of this type of treatment. It is necessary to improve peri- and postprocedural analgesia during dental implant treatment.
Determination of flavonols and phenolic acids in Puearia lobata (Kudzu) root by HPLC-PDA method
Authors: Filipiak-Szok Anna , Piasta Anna , Kurzawa Marzanna , Szłyk Edward
Published: June 2013

Phenolic acids and derivatives of quercetin in Kudzu root were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector. The calibration curves were constructed using phenolic compounds standards (the coefficient of determination (R2) was 0.9990–0.9997 for phenolic acids and 0.9989–0.9994 for flavonols. respectively). Ethanol was the most efficient solvent in extracting flavonols and phenolic acids from dried Kudzu roots at the optimal extraction time 60 min. Due to acidic hydrolysis the content of free phenolic acids was increasing. The predominant phenolic acid in Kudzu root determined by HPLC-PDA method with hydrolysis digestion is p-hydrozybenzoic acid (39.57 ± 1.44 mg/g d.m.), next one was: p-coumaric acid (6.20 ± 0.11 mg/g d.m.), followed by ferulic acid (11.52 ± 0.21 mg/g d.m.).On the other hand, the highest content of flavonols was found for routine (6.13 ± 0.11 mg/g d.m.). The contents of the other flavonols in kudzu root are between 0.73 – 2.52 mg/g d.m. for Rh and Q.
Fluorescent amyloid β-peptide ligand derivatives as potential diagnostic tools for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Airoldi Cristina , Cardona Francisco , Sironi Erika , Colombo Laura , Salmona Mario , Cambianica Ilaria , Ornaghi Francesca , Sancini Giulio , Nicotra Francesco , La Ferla Barbara
Published: June 2013

Aβ-peptide ligands based on a cis-glycofused benzopyran structure have been fluorescently labeled using coumarine derivatives. Among the synthesized compounds, two conserved their binding ability to β-amyloid peptides, as shown by NMR experiments. Moreover, exploiting its fluorescent property, it was demonstrated that one of such compounds was able to cross an in vitro model of blood–brain barrier (BBB) and to stain Aβ‑deposits.
Thyroid cancer and co-occurring RET mutations in Hirschsprung disease
Authors: Virtanen Valtter B , Pukkala Eero , Kivisaari Reetta , Salo Perttu P , Koivusalo Antti , Arola Johanna , Miettinen Päivi J , Rintala Risto J , Perola Markus , Pakarinen Mikko P
Published: June 2013

The objective of this study was to assess the occurrence of thyroid cancer and co-occurringRETmutations in a population-based cohort of adult Hirschsprung disease (HD) patients. All 156 patients operated for HD in a tertiary center during 1950–1986 were followed for thyroid malignancies up to 2010 through the nationwide Finnish Cancer Registry. Ninety-one individuals participated in clinical and genetic screening, which included serum calcitonin and thyroid ultrasound (US) with cytology. Exons 10, 11, 13, and 16 were sequenced in all, and all exons of RET in 43 of the subjects, including those with thyroid cancer,RETmutations, suspicious clinical findings, and familial or long-segment disease. Through the cancer registry, two cases (aged 35 and 37 years) of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) were observed; the incidence for MTC was 340-fold (95% CI 52–1600) compared with average population. These individuals had C611R and C620R mutations in exon 10. One papillary thyroid cancer withoutRETmutations was detected by clinical screening. Four subjects (aged 31–50 years) with co-occurringRETmutations in exons 10 (C609R;n=1) and 13 (Y791F,n=3) had sporadic short-segment HD with normal thyroid US and serum calcitonin. Three novel mutations and five single-nucleotide polymorphisms were found outside exons 10 and 13 without associated signs of thyroid cancer. MTC-associatedRETmutations were restricted to exons 10 and 13 affecting ∼5% of unselected adults with HD. Clinical thyroid assessment did not improve accuracy of genetic screening, which should not be limited to patients with familial or long-segment disease.
Heat stress effects on the cumulus cells surrounding the bovine oocyte during maturation: altered matrix metallopeptidase 9 and progesterone production
Authors: Rispoli L A , Payton R R , Gondro C , Saxton A M , Nagle K A , Jenkins B W , Schrick F N , Edwards J L
Published: June 2013

When the effects of heat stress are detrimental during maturation, cumulus cells are intimately associated with the oocyte. To determine the extent to which heat stress affects these cells, in this study, transcriptome profiles of the cumulus that surrounded control and heat-stressed oocytes (41 °C during the first 12 h only and then shifted back to 38.5 °C) duringin vitromaturation (IVM) were compared using Affymetrix bovine microarrays. The comparison of cumulus-derived profiles revealed a number of transcripts whose levels were increased (n=11) or decreased (n=13) ≥ twofold after heat stress exposure (P<0.01), sufficient to reduce the development of blastocysts by 46.4%. In a separate study, quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to confirm heat-induced differences in the relative abundances of the transcripts of five different genes (caveolin 1, matrix metallopeptidase 9, FSH receptor, Indian hedgehog homolog, and inducible nitric oxide synthase). Heat stress exposure resulted in >1.7-fold decrease in the protein levels of latent matrix metallopeptidase 9 (proMMP9). Heat-induced reductions in transcript levels were noted at 6 h IVM with reductions in proMMP9 protein levels at 18 h IVM (P=0.0002). Independent of temperature, proMMP9 levels at 24 h IVM were positively correlated with the development rate of blastocysts (R2=0.36;P=0.002). The production of progesterone increased during maturation; heat-induced increases were evident by 12 h IVM (P=0.002). Both MMP9 and progesterone are associated with the developmental competence of the oocyte; thus, it seems plausible for some of the negative consequences of heat stress on the cumulus–oocyte complex to be mediated through heat-induced perturbations occurring in the surrounding cumulus.
DFT Investigation of the Mechanism and Chemical Kinetics for the Gelation of Colloidal Silica
Authors: Burnett Steven S. , Mitchell James W.
Published: June 2013

The mechanism for the gelation reaction of colloidal silica, Si(OH)4 +Si(OH)3 (O)- ----> Si2O8H5- + H2O, by an anionic pathway was investigated using density functional theory(DFT). Using transition state theory, the rate constants were obtained by analyzing the potential energy surface at the reactants, saddle point, and the products. In addition, reaction rate constants were investigated in the presence of ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) and sodium chloride (NaCl). These salts act as catalysts to induce gelation by destabilizing the double layer of colloidal silica to allow for Van der Waal interactions. Furthermore, it was observed that ammonium chloride plays an important role by initiating a hydride transfer allowing the reaction to proceed from the second transition state to the final product.
Effect of O2/Ni ratio on structure and surface morphology of atmospheric pressure MOCVD grown NiO thin films
Authors: Roffi Teuku M. , Nakamura Motohiko , Uchida Kazuo , Nozaki Shinji
Published: June 2013

Effect of oxygen to nickel molar ratio (O2/Ni) on the crystallinity of atmospheric pressure metal organic chemical vapor deposition (APMOCVD) grown NiO at 500°C is reported. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis including grazing incident angle θ of 0.6°, θ-2θ, ɸ and rocking curve scan are employed for crystallographic characterization. Furthermore, surface roughness is studied by atomic force microscopy (AFM). No evidence of diffraction peaks in X-ray grazing incident angle measurement confirms that all the grown NiO films are well oriented along a certain direction. θ-2θ scan results further indicate that the samples are highly oriented only along [111] direction on (0001) sapphire substrates. The analysis of full width at half maximum (FWHM) of rocking curve scan of (111) plane shows that higher O2/Ni ratio results in better crystallinity. The best crystallinity is achieved with FWHM as low as 0.106° at (111) rocking curve scan corresponding to 82.57nm grain size. AFM measurement shows that NiO films grown with higher O2/Ni ratio have smoother surface morphology.
Using Dilute Nitrides to Achieve Record Solar Cell Efficiencies
Authors: Jones-Albertus Rebecca , Becker Emily , Bergner Robert , Bilir Taner , Derkacs Daniel , Fidaner Onur , Jory David , Liu Ting , Lucow Ewelina , Misra Pranob , Pickett Evan , Suarez Ferran , Sukiasyan Arsen , Sun Ted , Zhang Lan , Sabnis Vijit , Wiemer Mike , Yuen Homan
Published: June 2013

High quality dilute nitride subcells for multijunction solar cells are achieved using GaInNAsSb. The effects on device performance of Sb composition, strain and purity of the GaInNAsSb material are discussed. New world records in efficiency have been set with lattice-matched InGaP/GaAs/GaInNAsSb triple junction solar cells and a roadmap to 50% efficiency with lattice-matched multijunction solar cells using GaInNAsSb is shown.
Assessment of Homogeneity of Extruded Alumina-SiC Composite Rods Used in Microwave Heating Applications by Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Brandt Justin R. , Gerhardt Rosario A.
Published: June 2013

Composite rods consisting of Alumina (Al2O3) and Silicon Carbide whiskers (SiCw) are used to fabricate microwave cooking racks because they effectively act as a microwave intensification system that allows cooking at much faster rates than conventional microwave ovens. The percolation behavior, electrical conductivity and dielectric properties of these materials have been reported previously. However, it has been observed that the electrical response of the extruded bars is a function of the rod length and that long rods show substantially different behavior than thinner disks cut from them. A percolation model has been proposed that describes the effect of the alignment of the semiconducting SiC whiskers and the quality of the interfaces present in the composite rods: SiC-SiC and SiC-Al2O3-SiC for example. This study was undertaken with the goal of testing out whether the response of the individual sections could be used to generate the response of the full length rods and to assess the importance of the homogeneous distribution of the SiC fillers on the resultant impedance response.
Multiscale transmissivity study of drain-tube planar geocomposites: effect of experimental device on test representativeness
Authors: Bourgès-Gastaud S. , Blond E. , Touze-Foltz N.
Published: June 2013

ABSTRACT: Hydraulic transmissivity is the most important design parameter of geocomposites used for in-plane drainage applications. This paper presents an in-depth investigation of the hydraulic behaviour of drain-tube planar geocomposites (DTPGs) and characterises the locations and causes of head losses based on a multiscale experimental approach using three different apparatus. In particular, a transmissivity rig that accommodates specimens up to 1 m2 was developed to define the minimum representative surface area required to characterise DTPGs. The experimental data acquired in this study support a theoretical relationship linking head losses that occur within DPTGs to flow rate. This relationship is used to analyse the results obtained with other transmissivity rigs and to identify the key locations where head losses develop. In addition, evidence that Colebrook's equation can be applied to corrugated tubes is presented. Based on this study, it is concluded that the measured DTPG transmissivity is significantly affected by specimen length and by the experimental device used to make the measurement. For example, the DTPG transmissivity measured in accordance with ASTM D4716-08 was found to be 14% lower than the actual DTPG transmissivity.
A bearing capacity calculation method for soil reinforced with a geocell
Authors: Avesani Neto J.O. , Bueno B.S. , Futai M.M.
Published: June 2013

ABSTRACT: Geocell geosynthetics have been used in several areas of geotechnical engineering, such as retaining walls, slope protection against erosion, road bases and channel lining. However, geocell was initially designed to improve soil bearing capacity. Performing works in soft soils is always a challenge to geotechnical engineering and involves risks, such as (global and local) soil failures and large settlements. As reinforcement, geocell satisfactorily increases the bearing capacity of the soil, enabling its use. In this regard, this paper presents a method for predicting the bearing capacity of geocell-reinforced soils, taking into account the soil foundation bearing capacity and the geocell reinforcement mechanisms – the stress dispersion effect and the confinement effect. The proposed method is verified with the results of laboratory experiments by several researchers and compared with other calculation methods. The results show that the calculated bearing capacity obtained by this method give a better fit to the experimental results than other methods. The method also proved to be a good approach for different geocell characteristics (geometry), foundation soil and geocell infill (sand and clay) and loading shape (circular, rectangular and strip).
Performance comparison of conventional biplanar and low-cost alternative geocomposites for drainage
Authors: da Silva C.A. , Palmeira E.M.
Published: June 2013

ABSTRACT: Geocomposites for drainage are easy to transport and install in the field. These advantages are particularly important in regions of the world with poor transportation infrastructure and less specialised labour. However, the cost of geocomposites for drainage can limit their use in such regions. In this context, alternative materials can be used for the production of low-cost and environmentally friendly geocomposites for drainage. This paper compares the performance of some types of conventional biplanar low-discharge geocomposites and alternative geocomposites in transmissivity tests. The conventional geocomposites had a geonet or a geospacer as drainage core, whereas the alternative geocomposites had drainage cores made of bottle caps or tyre strips. The results showed similar performance for conventional and alternative geocomposites. It was also observed that for the discharge capacity of the geocomposites, a sand layer over 0.8 m thick would be required in most cases for normal stresses up to 100 kPa and under confined flow conditions. The results validated the use of alternative core materials, which may reduce the cost of geocomposites for drainage, particularly in regions where these products are not available or are expensive.
Reduction of lateral loads in abutments using ground anchors
Authors: Truong-Hong Linh , Laefer Debra F. , Le Khanh Ba
Published: June 2013

In bridge design, economically addressing large, lateral earth pressures on bridge abutments is a major challenge. Traditional approaches employ enlargement of the abutment components to resist these pressures. This approach results in higher construction costs. As an alternative, a formal approach using ground anchors to resist lateral soil pressure on bridge abutments is proposed herein. The ground anchors are designed to minimise lateral forces at the pile cap base. Design examples for high stem abutments (heights 6–8 m) are conducted for a simple 33 m long concrete bridge span, with two to three traffic lanes. The abutments are supported by driven, reinforced concrete piles. As lateral forces at the pile cap are significantly reduced, only one row of piles is needed. When compared with common abutment design, the proposed approach halved the number of piles required and decreased the required abutment volume by 37%.
Study on early autogenous shrinkage and crack resistance of fly ash high-strength lightweight aggregate concrete
Authors: Gao Yingli , Zhang Hailun , Tang Shuai , Liu He
Published: June 2013

A self-designed test and the elliptical ring test were applied to test the early autogenous shrinkage and crack resistance of fly ash high-strength lightweight aggregate concrete in which 10–30% of cement was replaced by equivalent amounts of fly ash of different fineness. Test data of reference lightweight aggregate concrete were provided. The results showed that (a) the early autogenous shrinkage of concrete was restrained in fly ash high-strength lightweight aggregate concrete, and further analysis indicated higher fly ash content and higher fly ash fineness resulted in less autogenous shrinkage; (b) in a lower water–binder ratio, early autogenous shrinkage increased significantly as the water–binder ratio decreased, and, moreover, pre-wetting of lightweight aggregate had a great effect on controlling early autogenous shrinkage; (c) the elliptical ring test results indicated that the addition of fly ash significantly improved crack resistance of lightweight aggregate concrete and that this improvement becomes obvious with increasing fineness of fly ash. Therefore, in practice, the addition of fly ash could be a technical alternative to reduce early autogenous shrinkage and to enhance the crack resistance of lightweight aggregate concrete.
Comparative assessment of finite-element and strut and tie based design methods for deep beams
Authors: Amini Najafian Hamidreza , Vollum Robert L. , Fang Libin
Published: June 2013

This paper considers the design and analysis of a series of one and two-span deep beams that have been tested previously. The beams are assessed with non-linear finite-element analysis and two alternative strut and tie models. The reinforcement is subsequently designed to resist between 60 and 80% of the measured failure loads using a semi-automated finite-element based procedure and the two strut and tie models. The semi-automated design procedure is implemented in NonOpt, which is a Fortran program that works in conjunction with the finite-element program Diana. The reinforcement is designed to resist stresses calculated in a non-linear finite-element analysis. The case studies with NonOpt examine the influence of basing the initial reinforcement design on either a linear or non-linear finite-element analysis. The influence of tension stiffening is also considered. The least reinforcement weight is obtained when the initial design is based on a non-linear analysis without tension stiffening.
Sustainable exploitation and management of autogenic ecosystem engineers: application to oysters in Chesapeake Bay
Authors: Wilberg Michael J. , Wiedenmann John R. , Robinson Jason M.
Published: June 2013

Autogenic ecosystem engineers are critically important parts of many marine and estuarine systems because of their substantial effect on ecosystem services. Oysters are of particular importance because of their capacity to modify coastal and estuarine habitats and the highly degraded status of their habitats worldwide. However, models to predict dynamics of ecosystem engineers have not previously included the effects of exploitation. We developed a linked population and habitat model for autogenic ecosystem engineers undergoing exploitation. We parameterized the model to represent eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) in upper Chesapeake Bay by selecting sets of parameter values that matched observed rates of change in abundance and habitat. We used the model to evaluate the effects of a range of management and restoration options including sustainability of historical fishing pressure, effectiveness of a newly enacted sanctuary program, and relative performance of two restoration approaches. In general, autogenic ecosystem engineers are expected to be substantially less resilient to fishing than an equivalent species that does not rely on itself for habitat. Historical fishing mortality rates in upper Chesapeake Bay for oysters were above the levels that would lead to extirpation. Reductions in fishing or closure of the fishery were projected to lead to long‐term increases in abundance and habitat. For fisheries to become sustainable outside of sanctuaries, a substantial larval subsidy would be required from oysters within sanctuaries. Restoration efforts using high‐relief reefs were predicted to allow recovery within a shorter period of time than low‐relief reefs. Models such as ours, that allow for feedbacks between population and habitat dynamics, can be effective tools for guiding management and restoration of autogenic ecosystem engineers.
Hedgerow restoration promotes pollinator populations and exports native bees to adjacent fields
Authors: Morandin Lora A. , Kremen Claire
Published: June 2013

In intensive agricultural landscapes, restoration within farms could enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services such as pollination by native pollinators. Although governments and conservation groups are promoting small‐scale restoration on working farms, there are few studies that assess whether these practices enhance pollinator communities in restored areas. Further, there is no information on whether floral enhancements will deplete pollinators in adjacent fields by concentrating ambient populations or whether they result in a net increase in abundance in adjacent farm fields. We investigated whether field edges restored with native perennial plants in California's Central Valley agricultural region increased floral abundance and potential bee nesting sites, and native bee and syrphid fly abundance and diversity, in comparison to relatively unmanaged edges. Native bees and syrphid flies collected from flowers were more abundant, species‐rich, and diverse at hedgerow sites than in weedy, unmanaged edges. Abundance of bees collected passively in pan traps was negatively correlated with floral abundance, was significantly different from communities captured by net sampling from flowers, and did not distinguish between site types; we therefore focused on the results of net samples and visual observations. Uncommon species of native bees were sevenfold more abundant on hedgerow flowers than on flowers at weedy, unmanaged edges. Of the species on flowers at hedgerows, 40% were exclusive to hedgerow sites, but there were no species exclusively found on flowers at control sites. Hedgerows were especially important for supporting less‐common species of native bees in our intensive agricultural landscape. Hedgerows did not concentrate ambient native bee, honey bee, or syphid fly populations, and they acted as net exporters of native bees into adjacent fields. Within‐farm habitat restoration such as hedgerow creation may be essential for enhancing native pollinator abundance and diversity, and for pollination services to adjacent crops.
Modeling of Pressure and Solution Gas for Chemical Floods
Authors: Roshanfekr M. , Johns R. T. , Delshad M. , Pope G. A.
Published: June 2013

The goal of surfactant/polymer (SP) flooding is to reduce interfacial tension (IFT) between oil and water so that residual oil is mobilized and high recovery is achieved. The optimal salinity and optimal solubilization ratios that correspond to ultralow IFT have recently been shown, in some cases, to be a strong function of the methane mole fraction in the oil at reservoir pressure. We incorporate a recently developed methodology to determine the optimal salinity and solubilization ratio at reservoir pressure into a chemical-flooding simulator (UTCHEM). The proposed method determines the optimal conditions on the basis of density estimates by use of a cubic equation of state (EOS) and measured phase-behavior data at atmospheric pressure. The microemulsion phase-behavior (Winsor I, II, and III) are adjusted on the basis of this predicted optimal salinity and solubilization ratio in the simulator. Parameters for the surfactant phase-behavior equation are modified to account for these changes, and the trend in the equivalent alkane carbon number (EACN) is automatically adjusted for pressure and methane content in each simulation gridblock. We use phase-behavior data from several potential SP floods to demonstrate the new implementation. The implementation of the new phase-behavior model into a chemical-flooding simulator allows for a better design of SP floods and more-accurate estimations of oil recovery. The new approach could also be used to handle free gas that may form in the reservoir; however, the SP-flood simulation when free gas is present is not the focus of this paper. We show that not accounting for the phase-behavior changes that occur when methane is present at reservoir pressure can greatly affect the oil recovery of SP floods. Improper design of an SP flood can lead to production of more oil as a microemulsion phase than as an oil bank. This paper describes the procedure to implement the effect of pressure and solution gas on microemulsion phase behavior in a chemical-flooding simulator, which requires the phase-behavior data measured at atmospheric pressure.
An Evaluation of Knowledge Transfer from Microworld Programming to Conventional Programming
Authors: Xinogalos Stelios
Published: June 2013

Programming microworlds are being used for introducing students to programming for many years. Although many professors and school teachers report positive results from using programming microwords, these results are usually based on anecdotal evidence rather than rigorous empirical evaluation. A question that has not been answered yet with certainty is whether the knowledge acquired in the context of a programming microworld is transferred to a conventional programming language. In an attempt to investigate this issue we used a specially designed middle-term exam and a questionnaire at the end of an undergraduate Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) course. The course uses the programming microworld objectKarel for a short introduction to the most fundamental OOP concepts, and then the environment BlueJ and Java for presenting the real thing. The analysis of students' replies in the questionnaire shows that the introduction to OOP with the microworld helps the vast majority of students to comprehend fundamental concepts of OOP and what is more important is that this knowledge is transferred to Java afterwards. These results are supported by the comparative analysis of students' performance in written exams that took place in the context of two distinct offerings of the course, prior and after the use of the microworld in it.
A Study of Learning Effects on E-Learning with Interactive Thematic Video
Authors: Chen Yuh-Tyng
Published: June 2013

This study implemented and examined the effects of a self-paced learning environment-interactive thematic video (ITV) designed to enhance learner's achievement and motivation on e-learning. We integrated the thematic instructional strategy into interactive video-based instruction and investigated the participant's reflection and learning performance through post-test, IMMS and the experimental teaching activities. Participants were divided into experimental group and control group. The comparison of learning achievement and motivation between two groups were also presented. The findings suggested that the proposed ITV could offer a better learning performance on e-learning environment.
Design and Implementation of a Supply Chain Learning Platform
Authors: Ngai E. W. T. , Moon Karen Ka-Leung , Poon J. K. L.
Published: June 2013

This study describes the design and implementation of a simulation role-playing game (RPG), the web-based Supply Chain Management Game (WSCMG), which provides an opportunity for business and management students to experience the business environment in a virtual context. In the design and development stage, generic supply chain (SC) activities were analyzed, and a web-based SC management (SCM) system developed to support the RPG. In the implementation stage, the game was tested on a group of undergraduate students specializing in the study of SCM. As part of the learning assessment, the student players were required to report their SC performance and sales figures using an inbuilt online evaluation system which also facilitated peer and tutor reviews. An evaluation was then conducted to collect students' and tutors' views on the game's effectiveness. Positive feedback was received, supporting the proposition that the WSCMG can be an effective tool in facilitating self-, peer-, and tutor-directed teaching and learning.
Fostering Innovation, Advancing Patient Safety
Authors: Archdeacon Patrick , Shaffer Rachel N. , Winkelmayer Wolfgang C. , Falk Ronald J. , Roy-Chaudhury Prabir
Published: June 2013

To respond to the serious and underrecognized epidemic of kidney disease in the United States, the US Food and Drug Administration and the American Society of Nephrology have founded the Kidney Health Initiative—a public–private partnership designed to create a collaborative environment in which the US Food and Drug Administration and the greater kidney community can interact to optimize the evaluation of drugs, devices, biologics, and food products. The Kidney Health Initiative will bring together all the necessary stakeholders, including patients, regulators, industry, health care providers, academics, and other governmental agencies, to improve patient safety and foster innovation. This initiative is intended to enable the kidney community as a whole to provide the right drug, device, or biologic for administration to the right patient at the right time by fostering partnerships that will facilitate development and delivery of those products and addressing challenges that currently impede these goals.
Association of Nocturnal Hypoxemia with Progression of CKD
Authors: Sakaguchi Yusuke , Hatta Tsuguru , Hayashi Terumasa , Shoji Tatsuya , Suzuki Akira , Tomida Kodo , Okada Noriyuki , Rakugi Hiromi , Isaka Yoshitaka , Tsubakihara Yoshiharu
Published: June 2013

Background and objectives

Nocturnal hypoxemia is highly prevalent among patients with CKD. Nocturnal hypoxemia contributes to systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial cell dysfunction, and activation of the renin-angiotensin system, which are common pathologic mechanisms of CKD progression. This study investigated whether nocturnal hypoxemia is independently associated with CKD progression.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

This two-center retrospective cohort study included 161 patients with stages 3–4 CKD enrolled from January of 2009 to July of 2011 with a body mass index less than 25.0 kg/m2. The 4% oxygen desaturation index, the number of events per hour in which oxygen saturation decreases by >4% during sleep, was measured, and the declining rate of the estimated GFR was followed over 1 year. The severity of nocturnal hypoxemia was categorized as none (oxygen desaturation index<5.0), mild (5.0≤oxygen desaturation index<15.0), or moderate to severe (15.0≤oxygen desaturation index).

Results

The mean estimated GFR of the total cohort at baseline was 31 ml/min per 1.73 m2. Eighty patients (49.7%) were diagnosed with nocturnal hypoxemia; 64 patients were diagnosed with mild nocturnal hypoxemia, and 16 patients were diagnosed with moderate-to-severe nocturnal hypoxemia. The estimated GFR declined three- to fourfold faster in patients with moderate-to-severe nocturnal hypoxemia than patients with no or mild nocturnal hypoxemia (the mean values [95% confidence intervals] were −2.14 [−1.06 to −3.21], −3.02 [−1.31 to −4.74], and −8.59 [−2.00 to −15.2] ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year in the no, mild, and moderate-to-severe nocturnal hypoxemia groups, respectively; P=0.003). Nocturnal hypoxemia remained a significant predictor of decline in estimated GFR after adjustment for various baseline clinical factors.

Conclusions

In nonobese patients with CKD, nocturnal hypoxemia is an independent risk factor of a rapid decline in kidney function.
Gingival recession—can orthodontics be a cure? Evidence from a case presentation
Authors: Northway William M.
Published: June 2013

Does orthodontic treatment help or hinder a patient's periodontal status? What factors affect the periodontium? Can those factors be managed in a way that remedies existing periodontal issues? A 35-year-old woman presented with severe gingival recession and a unilateral Class II malocclusion. The treatment plan was to correct the malocclusion in a way that torques the roots more onto bone and to change her dental hygiene methods. With an extensive review of the literature, this case review attempts to make sense of the enigma of gingival recession and demonstrates an excellent treatment solution to concomitant orthodontic and periodontal problems.
Microleakage under orthodontic bands cemented with nano-hydroxyapatite-modified glass ionomer: An in vivo study
Authors: Enan Enas T. , Hammad Shaza M.
Published: June 2013

Objectives:

To estimate the in vivo effect of nano-hydroxyapatite (HA) modification of banding glass-ionomer cement on microleakage under orthodontic bands.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty noncarious premolars scheduled for extraction in 20 orthodontic patients were randomly divided into four groups. Grouping was based on the ratio of nano-HA (0%, 5%, 10%, 15% by weight) added to the luting glass-ionomer cement (GIC) Ketac-Cem, which was used for cementation of prefabricated micro-etched orthodontic bands. Dye penetration method was used for microleakage evaluation at the cement-band and cement-enamel interfaces. Statistical evaluation was performed with a Kruskal-Wallis test and a Mann-Whitney U-test, and a Bonferroni-adjusted significance level was calculated.

Results:

Bands cemented with conventional GIC showed the highest microleakage scores in comparison to those cemented with nano-HA-modified GIC. No significant difference was found between teeth banded with 10% and 15% modified GIC.

Conclusions:

Modification of the banding GIC with 15% nano-HA revealed a positive effect on reducing microleakage around orthodontic bands.
Characteristics of Down syndrome subjects in a Saudi sample
Authors: Korayem Mohammed A. , AlKofide Eman A.
Published: June 2013

Objective:

To compare the cephalometric characteristics of Down syndrome (DS) subjects with those of normal subjects.

Materials and Methods:

Cephalometric radiographs of 60 Saudi DS subjects and 60 controls with specific inclusion criteria were used. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the quantitative and categorical variables, and the Student's t-test for two independent samples was used to compare the mean values of quantitative variables.

Results:

SBa and SN were higher in controls than in DS subjects, whereas the NSBa was significantly higher in DS subjects than in controls. SNA, Co-A, ANB, and A-Na perp of controls were higher than the DS subjects. However, SN-MP, PP-MP, ANS-Me/N-Me, Y-axis, and Ar-Go-Me of the DS subjects were higher than those of the controls. In addition, U1-NA, U1-NA mm, L1-NB, and L1-NB mm of the DS subjects were also higher than the controls with a more acute U1-L1 angle in DS. NLA was larger in controls than in DS, whereas LL-E and UL-E of the DS subjects were higher than the controls.

Conclusions:

Differences between DS subjects and controls can be found when examining cephalometric radiographs. Anterior and posterior cranial base lengths are shorter with a backward inclination of the posterior cranial base in DS subjects. DS subjects present with a retrognathic maxilla and shorter effective length, with an increased LFH and a hyperdivergent mandible. Bimaxillary dental protrusion can also be expected in DS subjects with prominent lips and a reduced nasolabial angle.
Code Generation from UML Model: State of the Art and Practical Implications
Authors: Bajovs Andrejs , Nikiforova Oksana , Sejans Janis
Published: June 2013

The paper draws attention to the problem of code generation under advanced software development. In their previous publications the authors already discussed several issues associated with the inconsistency between the generated software components and those expected in respect with the rules for object-oriented programming. The current research is an effort to systematize the information about code generation methods and techniques applied in the task of code generation and to try to answer the question of what is the reason for code generation failing to work correctly.
UML Sequence Diagram: Transformation from the Two-Hemisphere Model and Layout
Authors: Nikiforova Oksana , Kozacenko Ludmila , Ahilcenoka Dace
Published: June 2013

Modeling of the object interaction is one of the core tasks during system analysis and design, because it gives developer an ability to define responsibilities of class objects and to sketch general architecture of software components. In this task an ability of automatic generation of the UML sequence diagram becomes one of the most important activities. The twohemisphere model contains enough information to define operations to perform by classes and therefore is investigated in this paper in the context of the UML sequence diagram generation.
Ensuring Domain Conformity by Means of the Topological Functioning Model
Authors: Asnina Erika
Published: June 2013

The paper focuses on an open question about ensuring conformity among a domain of system knowledge, an analysis domain, a software design domain, and code. Principles of Model Driven Engineering are used in the research, namely, formal specifications of domains and support of conformity among these specifications with the help of traceability mechanism. Topological Functioning Model (TFM) has a mathematical mechanism for supporting traceability, and, thus, conformity. The main results demonstrate that the TFM holds the central place in a chain of trace links between specifications, and analysis of these links enables verification of domain conformity. The results are theoretical and require additional practical experiments.
Single Robot Localisation Approach for Indoor Robotic Systems through Integration of Odometry and Artificial Landmarks
Authors: Nikitenko Agris , Liekna Aleksis , Ekmanis Martins , Kulikovskis Guntis , Andersone Ilze
Published: June 2013

we present an integrated approach for robot localization that allows to integrate for the artificial landmark localization data with odometric sensors and signal transfer function data to provide means for different practical application scenarios. The sensor data fusion deals with asynchronous sensor data using inverse Laplace transform. We demonstrate a simulation software system that ensures smooth integration of the odometry-based and signal transfer - based localization into one approach.
The Role of Feedback in Intelligent Tutoring System
Authors: Dāboliņš Jānis , Grundspeņķis Jānis
Published: June 2013

Improvement of IT technologies, expansion of internet and popularization of web technologies have enabled technology enhanced learning introduction in adaption of general matters and acquaintance of specialized problems. It is necessary to integrate in ITS (Intelligent Tutoring System) analysis mechanisms and reactions to simulate or overcome natural tutoring environment achievements. In the development of learning systems it is necessary to take into account both individual needs and requirements, as well as the resources of information technologies. Feedback should be aligned, as much as possible, to the learner’s individuality, special needs, self-evaluation, self-explanation, self-regulation, etc.
Triple- Diffusive Convection in a Micropolar Ferrofluid in the Presence of Rotation
Authors: Chand S.
Published: June 2013

This paper deals with the theoretical investigation of the triple-diffusive convection in a micropolar ferrofluid layer heated and soluted below subjected to a transverse uniform magnetic field in the presence of uniform vertical rotation. For a flat fluid layer contained between two free boundaries, an exact solution is obtained. A linear stability analysis theory and normal mode analysis method have been employed to study the onset convection. The influence of various parameters like rotation, solute gradients, and micropolar parameters (i.e., the coupling parameter, spin diffusion parameter and micropolar heat conduction parameter) on the onset of stationary convection has been analyzed. The critical magnetic thermal Rayleigh number for the onset of instability is also determined numerically for sufficiently large value of the buoyancy magnetization parameter M1 (ratio of the magnetic to gravitational forces). The principle of exchange of stabilities is found to hold true for the micropolar fluid heated from below in the absence of micropolar viscous effect, microinertia, solute gradient and rotation. The oscillatory modes are introduced due to the presence of the micropolar viscous effect, microinertia , solute gradient and rotation, which were non-existent in their absence. In this paper, an attempt is also made to obtain the sufficient conditions for the non-existence of overstability.
Different Synchronization Schemes for Chaotic Rikitake Systems
Authors: Khan M. Ali
Published: June 2013

This paper presents the chaos synchronization by designing a different type of controllers. Firstly, we propose the synchronization of bi-directional coupled chaotic Rikitake systems via hybrid feedback control. Secondly, we study the synchronization of unidirectionally coupled Rikitake systems using hybrid feedback control. Lastly, we investigate the synchronization of unidirectionally coupled Rikitake chaotic systems using tracking control. Comparing all the results, finally, we conclude that tracking control is more effective than feedback control. Simulation results are presented to show the efficiency of synchronization schemes.
Slip Effects on Boundary Layer Flow and Heat Transfer Along a Stretching Cylinder
Authors: Mukhopadhyay S. , Gorla R.S.R
Published: June 2013

An axi-symmetric laminar boundary layer flow of a viscous incompressible fluid and heat transfer towards a stretching cylinder is presented. Velocity slip is considered instead of the no-slip condition at the boundary. Similarity transformations are used to convert the partial differential equations corresponding to the momentum and heat equations into non-linear ordinary differential equations. Numerical solutions of these equations are obtained by the shooting method. It is found that the velocity decreases with increasing the slip parameter. The skin friction as well as the heat transfer rate at the surface is larger for a cylinder compared to those for a flat plate.
Effect of Viscous Dissipation and Thermal Radiation on Heat Transfer over a Non-Linearly Stretching Sheet Through Porous Medium
Authors: Nandeppanavar M.M. , Siddalingappa M.N.
Published: June 2013

In this present paper, we have discussed the effects of viscous dissipation and thermal radiation on heat transfer over a non-linear stretching sheet through a porous medium. Usual similarity transformations are considered to convert the non-linear partial differential equation of motion and heat transfer into ODE’s. Solutions of motion and heat transfer are obtained by the Runge-Kutta integration scheme with most efficient shooting technique. The graphical results are presented to interpret various physical parameters of interest. It is found that the velocity profile decreases with an increase of the porous parameter asymptotically. The temperature field decreases with an increase in the parametric values of the Prandtl number and thermal radiation while with an increase in parameters of the Eckert number and porous parameter, the temperature field increases in both PST (power law surface temperature) and PHF (power law heat flux) cases. The numerical values of the non-dimensional wall temperature gradient and wall temperature are tabulated and discussed.
Planning of Collision-Free Trajectory for Mobile Manipulators
Authors: Pająk G.
Published: June 2013

A method of planning sub-optimal trajectory for a mobile manipulator working in the environment including obstacles is presented. The path of the end-effector is defined as a curve that can be parameterized by any scaling parameter, the reference trajectory of a mobile platform is not needed. Constraints connected with the existence of mechanical limits for a given manipulator configuration, collision avoidance conditions and control constraints are considered. The motion of the mobile manipulator is planned in order to maximize the manipulability measure, thus to avoid manipulator singularities. The method is based on a penalty function approach and a redundancy resolution at the acceleration level. A computer example involving a mobile manipulator consisting of a nonholonomic platform and a SCARA type holonomic manipulator operating in a two-dimensional task space is also presented.
Slow Extensional Flow Past a Non-Homogeneous Porous Spherical Shell
Authors: Rajvanshi S.C. , Wasu S.
Published: June 2013

An analytical investigation of extensional flow past a porous spherical shell of finite thickness with velocity slip at the surface is presented. The permeability of the shell varies continuously as a function of the radial distance. The flow in the porous region is assumed to obey Darcy’s Law. The drag has been calculated in terms of normal volume flux rate per unit area of the outer and inner surfaces. Particular cases of flow past a homogeneous sphere and no-slip boundary condition have been deduced.
Effect of Magnetic Field on Thermal Instability of Oldroydian Viscoelastic Rotating Fluid in Porous Medium
Authors: Thakur R.C. , Rana G.C.
Published: June 2013

In this paper, we investigate the effect of a vertical magnetic field on thermal instability of an Oldroydian visco-elastic rotating fluid in a porous medium. By applying the normal mode analysis method, the dispersion relation governing the effects of rotation, magnetic field and medium permeability is derived and solved analytically and numerically. For the case of stationary convection, the Oldroydian viscoelastic fluid behaves like an ordinary Newtonian fluid and it is observed that rotation has a stabilizing effect while the magnetic field and medium permeability have a stabilizing/destabilizing effect under certain conditions on thermal instability of the Oldroydian viscoelastic fluid in a porous medium. The oscillatory modes are introduced due to the presence of rotation, the magnetic field and gravity field. It is also observed that the ‘principle of exchange of stability’ is invalid in the presence of rotation and the magnetic field.