bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Household Access Demand for Telecom Services in India: Empirical Evidence and Policy Implications
Authors:   Narayana
Published: March 2009

This paper estimates the socioeconomic and demographic determinants of household access demand for telecommunications (or telecom) services by employing a binary logit model and using a sample survey data from Karnataka State (India). The evidence suggests that social caste, education level, size of income, income tax payers, and location of friends and relatives in local call area have significant impact on household access demand. However, the nature and magnitude of the impact of these determinants are different in rural and urban areas, respectively. Further, given the socioeconomic and demographic characteristics, a rise in the average income of households is shown to have a remarkable increase in the probability for access demand. These results imply that knowledge of socioeconomic and demographic determinants are relevant inputs for design of a promotional policy for access to telecom services. Subject to the comparability of socioeconomic structures, these implications are of relevance for promotion of household access demand for telecom services in other developing countries.
Vacuum brazing of NiTi alloy by AgCu eutectic filler
Authors: Zhao X. K. , Tang J. W. , Lan L. , Haung J. H. , Zhang H. , Wang Y.
Published: March 2009

Joining of NiTi alloy to itself has been realised by vacuum brazing process using AgCu28 eutectic as filler metal. Microstructures, mechanical and shape memory behaviour have been investigated. The shearing strength of the brazed joint exceeds 100 MPa, and rupture occurs at the diffusion layer of parent metal beside brazing metal. The brazed joint will be stronger than parent metal on condition of the specimen with a joint of lap length 10 times of plate thickness. The brazed specimen shows a good shape memory behaviour. From the point of view of practice, the brazing joint design principle and brazing quality improvement have been discussed.
Bedside diagnostic laparoscopy to diagnose intraabdominal pathology in the intensive care unit
Authors: Peris Adriano , Matano Stefania , Manca Giuseppe , Zagli Giovanni , Bonizzoli Manuela , Cianchi Giovanni , Pasquini Andrea , Batacchi Stefano , Di Filippo Alessandro , Anichini Valentina , Nicoletti Paola , Benemei Silvia , Geppetti Pierangelo
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Delayed diagnosis of intraabdominal pathology in the intensive care unit (ICU) increases rates of morbidity and mortality. Intraabdominal pathologies are usually identified through presenting symptoms, clinical signs, and laboratory and radiological results; however, these could also delay diagnosis because of inconclusive laboratory tests or imaging results, or the inability to safely transfer a patient to the radiology room. In the current study we evaluated the safety and accuracy of bedside diagnostic laparoscopy to confirm the presence of intraabdominal pathology in an ICU setting.

Methods

This retrospective study, carried out between January 2006 and June 2008, evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of bedside diagnostic laparoscopy performed on patients with a suspicion of ongoing intraabdominal pathology. Clinical indications for bedside diagnostic laparoscopy were: ultrasonography (US) images of gallbladder distension or wall thickening of more than 3 to 4 mm, with or without pericholecystic fluid; elevation of laboratory tests (bilirubin, transaminases, myoglobin, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine phosphokinase, gamma-glutamyltransferase); high level of lactate/metabolic acidosis; CT images inconclusive for intraabdominal pathology; or inability to perform a CT scan. Patients did not undergo bedside diagnostic laparoscopy if they presented clear indications for open surgery, coagulopathy, abdominal wall infection or high intraabdominal pressure.

Results

Thirty-two patients underwent bedside diagnostic laparoscopy (Visiport Plus, Autosuture, US), 14 of whom had been admitted to the ICU for major trauma, 12 for sepsis of unknown origin and 6 for complications after cardiac surgery. The procedure was performed on an average of eight days after ICU admission (95% confidence interval = 5 to 15 days) and mean procedure duration was 40 minutes. None of the procedures resulted in complications. Bedside diagnostic laparoscopy was diagnostic for intraabdominal pathology in 15 patients, who subsequently underwent surgery, except in two cases of diffuse gut hypoperfusion. Diagnosis of cholecystitis was obtained in seven cases: two were treated with laparotomic cholecystectomy and five with percutaneous gallbladder drainage positioning.

Conclusions

Bedside diagnostic laparoscopy represents a safe and accurate technique for diagnosing intraabdominal pathology in an ICU setting and should be taken into consideration when patient transfer to radiology or the operating room is considered unsafe, or when routine radiological examinations are not conclusive enough to reach a definite diagnosis.
Fraser Health Uses Mathematical Programming to Plan Its Inpatient Hospital Network
Authors: Santibáñez Pablo , Bekiou Georgia , Yip Kenneth
Published: March 2009

Fraser Health (FH), a British Columbia health authority that serves more than 1.5 million people, must increase its acute care capacity significantly over the next 15 years because of anticipated population growth and aging. The distribution of the projected capacity over each of FH's 12 hospitals depends on the mix of clinical services to be provided at each site, a decision guided by population needs and clinical practices. We present a multiperiod mathematical programming model that we developed to provide options for configuring the system, specifically the location of clinical services and allocation of bed capacity across the hospitals. The decisions in the model are based on population access, critical mass standards, and clinical adjacencies. We describe its application in a long-term planning initiative that FH undertook. Extensive scenario analyses allowed administrators, clinicians, and planners to test multiple system configurations, gain a robust understanding of the trade-offs between these configurations, and formalize the planning process for acute care services.
Experts' Stated Behavior
Authors: Boulaksil Youssef , Franses Philip Hans
Published: March 2009

We asked experts who adjust model-based sales forecasts what they do to adjust these forecasts and why they feel it necessary to make adjustments. To accomplish this, we developed a questionnaire that included a range of questions. We sent it to 100 forecasting experts in the same company; of these, 42 respondents in 20 countries completed it. They indicated that they feel that model-based forecasts miss relevant events and are not approximately adequate. When previous sales figures fluctuate greatly, the experts feel that they need to make more adjustments. The forecasters also indicated that they would like to learn more about their company's forecasting model.
A Plackett-Burman Experiment to Increase Supermarket Sales of a National Magazine
Authors: Bell Gordon H. , Ledolter Johannes , Swersey Arthur J.
Published: March 2009

This paper describes and discusses a Plackett-Burman experiment aimed at increasing supermarket sales of a top-selling national magazine. The experiment involved 10 factors relating to in-store advertising and the location of the magazine within the store. We discuss issues including choice of factors, alternative designs, sample-size determination (number of test stores and the length of the test period), and the analysis of the resulting data. We show the large benefits that accrued from our approach of testing many factors simultaneously compared to the common industry practice of sequentially testing one factor at a time. We also discuss the potential opportunities of applying this approach to other service problems.
The solution structure of pGolemi, a high affinity Mena EVH1 binding miniature protein, suggests explanations for paralog-specific binding to Ena/VASP homology (EVH) 1 domains
Authors: Link Nina M. , Hunke Cornelia , Mueller Jonathan W. , Eichler Jutta , Bayer Peter
Published: March 2009

Ena/VASP homology 1 (EVH1) domains are polyproline binding domains that are present in a wide range of adaptor proteins, among them Ena/VASP proteins involved in actin remodeling and axonal guidance. The interaction of ActA, a transmembrane protein from the food-borne pathogen Listeria monocytogenes, with EVH1 domains has been shown to be crucial for recruitment of the host's actin skeleton and, as a consequence, for the infectivity of this bacterium. We present the structure of a synthetic high-affinity Mena EVH1 ligand, pGolemi, capable of paralog-specific binding, solved by NMR spectroscopy. This peptide shares the common pancreatic peptide fold with its scaffold, avian pancreatic peptide, but shows pivotal differences in the amino-terminus. The interplay of spatial fixation and flexibility appears to be the reason for its high affinity towards Mena EVH1. Combined with earlier investigations, our structural data shed light on the specificity determinants of pGolemi and the importance of additional binding epitopes around the residues Thr74 and Phe32 on EVH1 domains regulating paralog specificity. Our results are expected to facilitate the design of other high-affinity, paralog-specific EVH1 domain ligands, and serve as a fundament for the investigation of the molecular mode of action of EVH1 domains.
Short double-stranded RNAs of specific sequence activate ribosomal TAK1-D and induce a global inhibition of translation
Authors: Kodym Reinhard , Kodym Elisabeth , Story Michael D.
Published: March 2009

We have previously shown that short double-stranded RNAs of specific sequence induce phosphorylation in the activation loop of splicing variant D of the transforming growth factor β-activated protein kinase 1 (TAK1-D). Here, we further characterize this novel function of TAK1-D and the mechanisms of this dsRNA-triggered phenomenon. Using a dominant negative TAK1-D mutant we demonstrate that TAK1-D activation is functionally required to trigger the activation of p38 MAP kinase and c-JUN terminal kinase and to induce cell death in NCI-H460 cells. While total TAK1-D protein was found in the cytoplasm as well as in the ribosomal fraction, activated TAK1-D phosphorylated on T184 and T187 in the activation loop was found to be exclusively associated with the 80S ribosome. The association of TAK1-D with the ribosome suggests an involvement in translation-dependent signaling and we demonstrate here that dsRNA-mediated activation of TAK1-D leads to a downregulation of mRNA translation. In addition, we show that TAK1-D is also phosphorylated after the induction of ribotoxic stress. Our data indicate that TAK1-D plays a role in the signaling events triggered by selected types of ribotoxic stress.
Science and Technology of Building Seals, Sealants, Glazing, and Waterproofing: Fourth Volume
Authors: Nicastro DH
Published: March 2009

Description

Features the most up-to-date knowledge about building sealant behavior. This edition covers important field data and the latest information on ongoing research in sealant durability, product performance evaluation and glazing. Eleven comprehensive, peer-reviewed papers are presented in three key categories:

• Durability -- four papers assess the strength and endurance of numerous sealants, including actual field experience from a waterproofing contractor.

• Products and Applications -- Five papers explore alternative sealant products and their various uses.

• Glazing -- a case history explains how reglazing impacts a building with defective structural sealant design and installation.

The final paper features extensive information on current European standards for Insulted Glass Unit (IGU) testing.
Comparative Toxicities of Six Heavy Metals Using Root Elongation and SHOOT Growth in Three Plant Species
Authors: Gorsuch JW , Ritter M , Anderson ER
Published: March 2009

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L. var. Chicago Pickler), lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. var. Buttercrunch), and millet (Panicum miliaceum) seeds were exposed for seven days to six or more concentrations of cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr VI), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), and zinc (Zn). The responses of the germinating seeds, root lengths, and plant heights were compared. The procedure employs seeds exposed in pouches which are held in a vertical position to aqueous solutions of the six test metals at 22 ± 2°C in the dark.

Cucumber and lettuce are test species recommended by the U.S. EPA (FIFRA), U.S. FDA, and OECD for environmental assessments. Millet, a riverine species of the Midwest, has been used by the Illinois State Water Survey to evaluate environmental effects of chemicals and waste water effluents.

The endpoints chosen were the IC50 (concentration causing 50% inhibition of root elongation or of plant heights, in comparison to the control) value and the NOEC (No-Observed-Effect Concentration) value. Both endpoints were determined after 5 and 7 days exposure. Root elongation was the most sensitive measure of inhibition. Lettuce was the most sensitive species to chromium and cadmium and equally sensitive as cucumber and millet to the other four metals. Inhibitory effects were usually greater after 7 days exposure than at 5 days.

The results from this study are compared with those obtained by the Illinois State Water Survey, which used test solutions prepared from the same stock and exposed seeds from the same lot as those used in our trials in 10 cm disposable petri dishes containing Whatman No. 1 filter paper. IC50 values obtained in our study differed significantly from those obtained by the Illinois State Water Survey study. The reasons for these differences will be discussed in the paper.
Validity of Small Specimen Fracture Toughness Estimates Neglecting Constraint Corrections
Authors: Wallin K
Published: March 2009

Historically, size criterions have been developed with the aim of guaranteeing specimen size independent fracture toughness values. The basis for the criterions have been different assumptions regarding the specimen constraint. Presently, it has become evident that for cleavage type fracture there exists a statistical size effect affecting the measured toughness in addition to constraint. In this work existing data bases are analyzed, considering the statistical size effect, but neglecting any corrections for constraint. It is shown that the validity of small bend specimen fracture toughness estimates is excellent, even with specimens that clearly violate even the least stringent size requirements.
Identification of Hydrocarbon Sources in the Benthic Sediments of Prince William Sound and the Gulf of Alaska Following the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill
Authors: Page DS , Boehm PD , Douglas GS , Bence AE
Published: March 2009

Advanced hydrocarbon fingerprinting methods and improved analytical methods make possible the quantitative discrimination of the multiple sources of hydrocarbons in the benthic sediments of Prince William Sound (PWS) and the Gulf of Alaska. These methods measure an extensive range of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) at detection levels that are as much as two orders of magnitude lower than those obtained by standard Environmental Protection Agency methods. Nineteen hundred thirty six (1 936) subtidal sediment samples collected in the sound and the eastern Gulf of Alaska in 1989, 1990, and 1991 were analyzed.

Fingerprint analyses of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry data reveal a natural background of petrogenic and biogenic PAH. The petrogenic background is derived largely from oil seeps in the eastern Gulf of Alaska. Age-dated (210pb) sediment cores indicate that significant input of seep hydrocarbons into Prince William Sound has been going on for at least 160 years and probably for thousands of years. Superimposed on this natural background are locally elevated concentrations of anthropogenic hydrocarbons from sources such as diesel fuel and pyrogenic PAH that are found primarily adjacent to active or historical sites of human use. Exxon Valdez crude, its weathering products, and diesel fuel refined from Alaska North Slope crude are readily distinguished from the natural seep petroleum background and from each other because of theirdistinctive PAH distributions.

Mixing models were developed to calculate the PAH contributions from each source to each sediment sample. These calculations show that most of the seafloor in PWS contains no detectable hydrocarbons from the Exxon Valdez spill, although elevated concentrations of PAH from seep sources are widespread. In those areas where they were detected, spill hydrocarbons were generally a small increment to the natural petroleum hydrocarbon background. Low levels of Exxon Valdez crude residue were present in 1989 and again in 1990 in nearshore subtidal sediments off some shorelines that had been heavily oiled. By 1991 these crude residues were heavily degraded and even more sporadically distributed.
Shoreline Ecology Program for Prince William Sound, Alaska, Following the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill: Part 1—study Design and Methods
Authors: Page DS , Gilfillan ES , Boehm PD , Harner EJ
Published: March 2009

Part 1 of a three-part series, this paper describes the design and analysis of a large field and laboratory program to assess shoreline recovery in Prince William Sound following the Exxon Valdez oil spill. The study was designed so that results could be generalized area-wide (biology, chemistry) or habitat-wide (toxicology) and projected forward in time (chemistry). It made use of the “sediment quality triad” approach, combining biological, chemical, and toxicological measurements to assess shoreline recovery. Key aspects of the study include the following: • Coordinated field sampling for chemical, toxicological, and biological studies • Stratified random sampling (SRS) as a basis for spatial generalization • Periodic sampling to assess trends, including sites with worst-case conditions • Analysis of oil-spill effects on hundreds of species • Statistical methods based on normal and non-normal theory, consistent with the structure of the data, including generalized linear models and multivariate correspondence analysis

Prince William Sound shorelines were stratified into four types of habitat (exposed bedrock/rubble, sheltered bedrock/rubble, boulder/cobble, and pebble/gravel) and four different levels of oiling (unoiled, light, moderate, and heavy). Sixty-four SRS sites were randomly selected with an average of four replicates in each combination of habitat type and oiling level. The SRS sites were sampled in 1990 to assess the state of recovery in the sound. Twelve additional non-random sites, including some of the most heavily oiled locations in the sound, were monitored annually to assess trends from 1989 to 1991.

At sedimentary sites, sediment samples were taken for hydrocarbon analysis, sediment toxicology, and biological (infaunal) analysis. At bedrock/rubble sites, filter wipes and surface scrape samples were taken to assess chemistry and epibiota. Where present, mussel samples were taken to determine the bioavailability of any petroleum residues.

Spill-affected shorelines are judged to have recovered when the biological communities are statistically indistinguishable from those at unoiled reference sites. Given the large natural variability observed among sites, this study provides a more accurate and comprehensive picture of shoreline recovery than approaches that focus on only a few species at subjectively chosen locations.
Shoreline Ecology Program for Prince William Sound, Alaska, Following the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill: Part 2—Chemistry and Toxicology
Authors: Boehm PD , Page DS , Gilfillan ES , Stubblefield WA , Harner EJ
Published: March 2009

Part two of a three-part series, this paper describes chemical and toxicological results of a comprehensive shoreline ecology program that was designed to assess recovery in Prince William Sound following the Exxon Valdez oil spill of March 24, 1989. The program is an application of the “sediment quality triad” approach, combining chemical, toxicological, and biological measurements. Other parts of the program are described in Part 1: Study Design and Methods (Page et al., this volume) and Part 3: Biology (Gilfillan et al., this volume). The study was designed so that results could be extrapolated to the entire spill zone in the sound and projected forward in time. It combined one-time sampling of 64 randomly chosen study sites representing four major habitats and four oiling levels (including unoiled reference sites), with periodic sampling at 12 subjectively chosen “fixed” sites. Sediment samples—or when conditions required, filter-wipes from rock surfaces—were collected in each of three intertidal zones and from subtidal stations up to 30-m deep.

Oil removal was generally quite rapid: by 1991 the concentration of oil spilled from the Exxon Valdez had been dramatically reduced on the majority of shorelines by both natural processes and cleanup efforts. Moderate concentrations of petroleum residues remain only in limited, localized areas; however, most of these residues are highly asphaltic, not readily bioavailable, and not toxic to marine life.

Acute sediment toxicity from oil (as measured by standard toxicity tests) was virtually absent by 1990–'91, except at a small number of isolated locations. The petroleum residues had degraded below the threshold of acute toxic effects. Measurable polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) levels are, in general, well below those conservatively associated with adverse effects, and biological recovery has been considerably more rapid than the removal of the last chemical remnants. The remaining residues continue to degrade and are, in general, predicted to become indistinguishable from background hydrocarbon levels by 1993 or 1994. Localized residues of weathered oil will no doubt exist beyond 1994 at certain locations, but their environmental significance will be negligible compared with other stresses ongoing in the sound.

Samples of nearshore subtidal sediments showed surprisingly low concentrations of oil residue, as an increment to the natural petrogenic hydrocarbon background. Sediment toxicity tests showed that they were essentially non toxic. It appears that most of the oil leaving the shoreline was swept away and dissipated at sea. It is concluded that long-term ecological effects resulting from shoreline oiling or subtidal contamination are highly unlikely.
ISO-Filter für die FertigungsmesstechnikISO Filters for Precision Engineering
Authors: Krystek Michael
Published: March 2009

Filter werden in der Fertigungsmesstechnik dazu verwendet, um störende Komponenten in den Messdaten zu unterdrücken, um bei taktilen Messungen die angetastete Oberfläche zu rekonstruieren oder um Anteile unterschiedlicher Skalengröße voneinander zu trennen. Der Einsatz dieser Filter umfasst dabei ein weites Gebiet, nämlich im Wesentlichen die Koordinatenmesstechnik, die Form- und Konturenmesstechnik sowie die Oberflächenmesstechnik. Bisher wurden in diesem Bereich fast ausschließlich die in ISO 11562 genormten Gauß-Filter eingesetzt. Seit Kurzem gibt es aber die neue Reihe von ISO-Dokumenten, ISO/TS 16610, in der neben dem weiterhin zur Verfügung stehenden Gauß-Filter weitere Filter für den Bereich der geometrischen Produktspezifikation und -verifikation festgelegt werden. Diese Publikation gibt einen Überblick über diese neuen ISO-Filter.
Hydration of hydraulic materials – a discussion on heat liberation and strength development
Authors: Goto S.
Published: March 2009

The materials for low heat cement are discussed from the point of view of the relationship between the strength development and the heat of hydration. The strength development due to the hydration of hydraulic materials is understood to be due to the filling by hydrates of the space that was initially occupied by water. The strength of porous materials can be well expressed by the empirical Ryshkevitch's law. When considering the materials to be used for low-heat cement the rates of heat development are the usual criteria, but instead the amount of heat developed should be regarded as most important, and particularly the ratio of the amount of heat liberated to the volume of solid increased by the hydration. The heat required for fill a unit pore volume was evaluated for some materials, such as C3S, C2S, C3A and granulated blast furnace slag. When C3S filled a unit volume of space with hydration products such as C–S–H and C2S did with C–S–H and CH, C3A did with AFt, C3A did with AFm18 and slag did with C–S–H and AFt, the amounts of heat liberated were calculated as 225, 136, 266, 326, 177 cal/ml increase in volume, respectively. It was clearly shown that in these materials C2S had easily the minimum heat liberation. It was also found that the solid volume obtained by hydration was proportional to the amount of mass of water hydrated; that is, water solidifies as a material with density of approximately 1·17 g/cm3. This also means that the amount of chemical shrinkage was proportional to the amount of water required for hydration.
Water vapour and liquid permeability measurements in cementitious samples
Authors: Claisse P.A. , Elsayad H.I. , Ganjian E.
Published: March 2009

This paper shows how water permeability may be calculated from measurements of drying under a vacuum. The results obtained are for water vapour transport at low pressures and gas slippage theory is then used to compare them with liquid water permeability measurements on samples of the same mixes. The experimental work includes the drying procedure and also the initial surface absorption test (ISAT), a standard absorption test using a partially immersed sample and a ’through flow' high-pressure test for direct permeability measurements. The results from these tests are compared and additional gas and liquid permeability data from the literature is included for comparison. It is concluded that, with appropriate analysis, all of the procedures give comparable values for intrinsic permeability.
Deformation of NHL3.5 and CL90/PC hybrid mortars
Authors: Ball R. J. , El-Turki A. , Allen W. J. , Nicholson J. A. , Allen G. C.
Published: March 2009

The time-dependent deformation of an NHL 3.5 natural hydraulic lime mortar, a 1:6 Portland cement mortar, two Portland cement/CL90 hybrid mortars and a CL90 lime paste, through creep and drying shrinkage under load, has been investigated. An apparatus was constructed to measure the dimensional changes of eight individual samples simultaneously. A reversible relationship between changes in specimen dimension and relative humidity has been established. The influence of load on deformation rate was found to be most significant during the first two weeks of monitoring with little effect thereafter. The rate of deformation during the first 2 weeks of sample monitoring was greatest for mortars containing a high proportion of calcium hydroxide. A linear relationship was found between strain rate and calcium hydroxide content.
Is there an ‘energy gap’?
Authors: Collins C. , Gross R. , Heptonstall P.
Published: March 2009

A number of authors have suggested that the UK faces a ‘looming energy gap’ in the coming decade because of an increasing dependence on imported fuels, the closure of a number of electricity generators and a perceived lack of investment in new generating capacity. Focusing on electricity generation, this paper seeks to clearly define what an energy gap is, explain why there may be concerns over such a gap and identify the reasons why a gap may or may not materialise. A central contention of this paper is that there is confusion over the two forms of energy gap, namely a ‘fuel gap’ that would occur if insufficient fuel were available to generators to produce electricity and a ‘capacity gap’ that would occur with insufficient generation capacity to convert available fuel into electricity. This conflation is unhelpful because the reasons for, and policy responses to, these two forms of gap may be quite distinct. The paper goes on to explore the issues surrounding these two manifestations of an energy gap and how they relate to policy.
Structural performance of RC flat plate slab shear-reinforced interior connections under lateral loading
Authors: Cho Y.S.
Published: March 2009

The results of an experiment on the structural performance of reinforced concrete (RC) slab–column connections are presented in this paper. The first of five specimens was identified as the control specimen. Two were strengthened by stud rails and the others were reinforced by studs on steel plates. Specimens were tested under constant gravity load and a reversed cyclic lateral displacement. Punching shear failure occurred in the control specimen. Punching shear failure was not observed in the reinforced specimens. The specimens reinforced by studs on steel plates exhibited an increase of 52·3% in ductility compared to the control specimen. The flat plate slabs strengthened by studs on steel plates showed increased deformation resistance capacity and ductility while not undergoing punching shear failure.
A modified equivalent frame method for lateral load analysis
Authors: Park Y.M. , Han S.-W. , Kee S.-H.
Published: March 2009

The equivalent frame method (EFM) was developed for two-way slabs as a simple approximate method. Current design codes (ACI 318-05, Eurocode 2 and BS 8110) permit the EFM for the analysis of two-way slab systems under gravity loads, as well as lateral loads such as seismic loads. The EFM, however, was developed based on a semi-empirical formula, derived from the behaviour of two-way slab systems under gravity loads. This study shows that the EFM is not appropriate in accurately predicting the response of two-way slab systems under lateral loads. To improve the EFM under lateral loads, this study proposes a modified equivalent frame method (MEFM). To verify the MEFM, an idealised two-storey flat plate frame is considered and analysed by both the MEFM and elastic finite-element (FE) analysis for estimating slab moments and lateral drifts. Analysis results obtained from the conventional EFM and effective beam width method (EBWM) are also compared. The lateral stiffness, based on the proposed MEFM, was also compared with experimental data.
Corrosion Management for Aging Pipelines—Experience From the Forties Field
Authors: Marsh J. , Teh T. , Ounnas S. , Richardson M.
Published: March 2009

In 2003, Apache became the operator of the Forties Field. The field has now been in operation for 33 years and much of the infield pipeline system has exceeded its original design life of 20–25 years. Apache intends to continue production in the Forties Field for, potentially, in excess of a further 20 years. With that in mind, they have identified numerous issues with respect to corrosion management of the infield pipeline system. Since late 2006, the Forties Field infield pipeline corrosion and integrity management has been carried out by IONIK Consulting/JP Kenny Caledonia Ltd. Working closely with Apache, the infield pipeline system has been reviewed; a number of issues have been assessed and quantified; and practices with respect to corrosion management, corrosion monitoring, and inspection have been implemented. This document examines the issues identified, the corrosion management strategy put in place, and the inspection actions undertaken. Examples of issues identified with respect to corrosion management systems include a requirement for a dedicated pipeline corrosion management strategy, pipeline corrosion modeling, a corrosion risk assessment of the pipeline system, a review of corrosion inhibition and pigging, and a review of key performance indicators with emphasis on pipeline management. Specific corrosion issues identified include anode depletion, preferential weld corrosion, localized corrosion, and 6 o'clock corrosion. Examples of other factors identified have been potential risks from microbial and underdeposit corrosion caused by low flow rates. This publication provides an overview of these issues and the implementation of solutions, alongside changes to items such as documentation and modification of existing procedures, risk assessment, corrosion management, and the implementation of an intelligent pigging program.
Developing a Hydrate-Monitoring System
Authors: Tohidi B. , Chapoy A. , Yang J.
Published: March 2009

A major challenge in offshore development is to ensure unimpeded flow of hydrocarbons. Managing solids such as hydrates is the key to the viability of developing a deepwater prospect. Common methods to prevent and reduce hydrate risks are generally based on injection of thermodynamic inhibitors to prevent hydrate formation, or use of kinetic hydrate inhibitors to sufficiently delay hydrate nucleation/growth. Currently, the amount of inhibitor required is either calculated and/or determined based on lab experiments. The amount of inhibitor depends on various parameters, including, water cut, inhibitor loss to hydrocarbon phases, aqueous and non-aqueous fluid compositions, operating conditions. Generally, a safety factor is considered and the resulting inhibitor is injected upstream without much downstream measurements. Despite the usual safety margins, gas hydrates are formed, which could result in serious operational and safety concerns. This is mainly caused by changes in the system conditions (e.g., rates and water cut) and/or malfunction of the equipment. In most cases, the amount of inhibitor is more than necessary and is not adjusted with seasonal changes, affecting CAPEX/OPEX.

As a result of a joint industry project, several novel techniques, based on downstream and online measurements, have been developed. These techniques could be divided into the following categories:

Monitoring hydrate safety margin to optimize inhibitor injection rates. The system determines the amount of inhibitor in the aqueous phase and the degree of inhibition they can offer. Detecting initial hydrate formation, as an early warning system against hydrate blockage. The system detects the changes in the system caused by hydrate formation with the aim of giving the operator enough time to prevent a blockage.

The main advantages of these techniques include minimizing the amount of inhibitor required and preventing pipeline blockages caused by hydrates, hence the cost of inhibitor; impact on the environment; cost of remedial actions; and deferred production. A number of techniques have been investigated during this project, with some techniques selected for prototype development. The developed prototypes have been tested in the project sponsors’ laboratories and some in commercial production. In this paper, an update on the latest results of this new approach in flow assurance control is presented.
Protein microarrays for diagnosis and research of allergic diseases
Authors: Hiller Reinhard
Published: March 2009

For both the systematic as well as for the system-wide analysis of protein function, interaction and abundance, protein microarrays represent one of the pillars underlying modern high-throughput Proteomics. The prospect of analyzing samples in a highly parallel while miniaturized fashion has fuelled efforts to develop novel diagnostic applications in the cancer, autoimmune or allergy field. Here, I discuss recent advancements in the development of protein microarrays for the profiling of IgE antibodies in the diagnosis of Type 1-related allergic diseases.
Chlamydia trachomatis - possible cause of preterm delivery
Authors: Bogavac Mirjana , Aleksic Slobodan , Radulovic Aleksandar
Published: March 2009

Introduction The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of urogenital infection with Chlamydia trachomatis in patients "with preterm delivery in relation to those with term delivery. Material and methods The investigation included a random sample of 116 parturients. Direct immunofluorescence (DIF) test was used to diagnose Chlamydia trachomatis. Results In the investigated group (N=53), positive finding of Chlamydia trachomatis in the urogenital tract was established in 6 (11.32%) patients in cervix and in 5 (9.43%) patients in the urethra, whereas in the control group there were 3 (4.76%) positive findings in the cervix and 1 (1.59%) in the urethra. The control group included patients with term delivery (N=63). Discussion and conclusion Results of investigation point to the necessity of diagnostics and treatment of Chlamydia trachomatis in prevention of preterm delivery, particularly in women with previous unsuccessful pregnancies.
Effects of an LL-37-Derived Antimicrobial Peptide in an Animal Model of Biofilm Pseudomonas Sinusitis
Authors: Chennupati Sri Kiran , Chiu Alexander G. , Tamashiro Edwin , Banks Caroline A. , Cohen Michael B. , Bleier Benjamin S. , Kofonow Jennifer M. , Tam Eric , Cohen Noam A.
Published: March 2009

Background

LL-37, an innate immunity protein expressed within sinonasal mucosa, has in vitro antibacterial and antifungal properties as well as efficacy against preformed Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms. We hypothesize that a 24 amino acid peptide derivative of LL-37 will show efficacy against biofilm-forming P. aeruginosa in an established animal model of sinusitis.

Methods

Five groups of six New Zealand rabbits were each infected with P. aeruginosa (PAO-1) and fitted with irrigating catheters 7 days later. Each group was instilled with either one of three different concentrations of peptide, a positive control of topical tobramycin, or the carrier solution without the peptide once a day for 10 days. Nasal diluent was collected throughout the irrigation period to assess for persistence or resolution of infection by determining colony-forming units (CFU). At study end, sinus mucosa was harvested for histological assessment of inflammation and SEM evaluation for ciliary integrity and presence of biofilms.

Results

Topical tobramycin at 400× minimum inhibitory concentration and 2.5 mg/mL of peptide were effective in significantly lowering CFUs after 10 days of irrigation. Histological evaluation showed increased signs of inflammation in a dose-dependent manner within mucosa and bone of the groups receiving the peptide. SEM analysis showed ciliary loss in a dose-dependent manner. Biofilms were present in all groups except for the highest concentration of peptide and tobramycin.

Conclusion

High concentrations of LL-37-derived peptide showed in vivo ability to eradicate Pseudomonas biofilms and decrease bacterial counts. However, increasing concentrations of peptide showed proinflammatory and ciliotoxic effects on sinus mucosa.
Correlation of Severity of Epistaxis with Nasal Telangiectasias in Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT) Patients
Authors: Pagella Fabio , Colombo Andrea , Matti Elina , Giourgos Georgios , Tinelli Carmine , Olivieri Carla , Danesino Cesare
Published: March 2009

Background

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), also known as Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome, is an autosomal dominant disease that leads to multiregional angiodysplasia. The presence of telangiectasias in nasal mucosa leads to recurrent epistaxis that affects up to 96% of patients but with unpredictable severity. Some authors have previously explained that endonasal morphology and distribution of telangiectasias can be variable too. The purpose of this study was to evaluate any possible relationship between the severity of epistaxis and the different morphology and distribution of nasal telangiectasias in HHT patients.

Methods

A review was performed of nasal endoscopy records of 76 consecutive HHT patients treated for epistaxis between 2003 and 2007 at our institution. An evaluation was performed of severity of epistaxis in the same patient group using a questionnaire and considering frequency, intensity, duration of nosebleeds, and need for blood transfusions. Comparison of data collected on morphology and distribution of nasal telangiectasias with data collected on severity of epistaxis was performed.

Results

Morphology and distribution of nasal telangiectasias showed a statistically significant correlation with frequency and intensity of epistaxis. Presence of telangiectasias endoscopically appearing as large and prominent correlates with higher frequency of epistaxis. An increase in number of nasal subsites involved correlates with higher intensity of nosebleeds.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that to reduce frequency and intensity of epistaxis in HHT patients, treatments should be directed also at lesions located in the posterior part of nasal fossae and especially on telangiectasias endoscopically appearing as large and prominent.
Efficacy of Different Techniques of Sinonasal Irrigation after Modified Lothrop Procedure
Authors: Beule Achim , Athanasiadis Theodore , Athanasiadis Emmanuel , Field John , Wormald Peter-John
Published: March 2009

Background

Postoperative irrigation after endoscopic sinus surgery and endoscopic modified Lothrop procedure is used to remove nasal crusts and to improve wound healing. To evaluate the optimal application protocol for irrigation of the frontal sinus, a prospective cadaver study was performed.

Methods

An endoscopic modified Lothrop procedure and complete sphenoethmoidectomy were performed in 19 heads. Each was irrigated with a 1.5% solution of water and different colors using nasal spray and a squeeze bottle filled with 50, 100, and 200 mL. Intensity of local staining and percentage of area were documented using standardized videoendoscopy after irrigation in “bending over the sink” or “vertex to floor” position. Grading was performed by two independent observers for 23 anatomic regions, including the stained circumference of maxillary and frontal ostia. To evaluate the influence of the anatomy, acoustic rhinometry was performed. ANOVA was used to evaluate effects of application methods and head positions using GenStat 8.2 (Lawes Agricultural Trust, Rothamsted Experimental Station, Harpenden, U.K.) using an appropriate block structure.

Results

With regard to the frontal sinus, we were able to show clear superiority of the squeeze bottle technique filled with 200 mL and applied in the “vertex to floor position.”

Conclusion

In a relatively fit and flexible patient the vertex to floor position using a squeeze bottle technique is advocated. There may be some patients, however, for whom this position is not feasible. In these patients “bending over the sink,” while inferior to the “vertex to floor” position, still ensures some irrigation of the frontal sinus.
Effect of Carboxymethylcellulose Nasal Packing on Wound Healing after Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Kastl Konrad G. , Betz Christian S. , Siedek Vanessa , Leunig Andreas
Published: March 2009

Background

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) has become the treatment of choice for patients with medically resistant chronic rhinosinusitis. Nasal packing is usually placed after the surgery to support wound healing and prevent adhesions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of carboxy-methylated cellulose (CMC) nasal packing on wound healing after FESS compared with no nasal packing.

Methods

Twenty-six patients underwent bilateral FESS. The patients were randomized to receive CMC mesh or gel packing on one side and no packing on the opposite side. The patients were followed at 2, 4, and 12 weeks after surgery. Endoscopically visible CMC, crusting, mucosal integrity, synechia formation, granulation tissue formation, and adverse side effects were assessed and documented.

Results

No adverse side effects were observed. No significant differences were found between the CMC-packed side and the unpacked side with respect to the outcome measure of wound healing. No difference was found between two different forms of CMC in terms of wound healing. Two weeks after surgery, endoscopically visible CMC was detected in four patients of the CMC mesh group, whereas none of the patients in the CMC gel group had endoscopically visible CMC (p = 0.040).

Conclusion

As we were unable to establish an effect, we must question the efficacy of this packing material and the necessity of its use after FESS based on the technique of the Graz University Medical School. The mesh form of CMC could be potentially useful as a vehicle for extended drug delivery owing to its longer retention time in the nose.
Chitosan Glycerophosphate-Based Semirigid Dexamethasone Eluting Biodegradable Stent
Authors: Bleier Benjamin S. , Paulson David P. , O'Malley Bert W. , Li Daqing , Palmer James N. , Chiu Alexander G. , Cohen Noam A.
Published: March 2009

Background

Chitosan is a polysaccharide derived from chitin deacetylation, which can form a biodegradable matrix capable of reversibly binding dexamethasone. The purpose of this study was to optimize the chitosan formulation to produce a pliable sheet, to assess the innate longevity and inflammatory potential of the polymer, and to study the in vivo rate of dexamethasone release over time.

Methods

Chitosan glycerophosphate (CGP) sheets were produced with varying degrees of deacetylation (70-100%) and analyzed for structural integrity. Two-squared centimeter sheets of 91.7% deacetylated CGP were mixed with dexamethasone and implanted in 12 rabbit maxillary sinuses. Nasal lavage and peripheral blood samples were tested for dexamethasone levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) over 15 days. Sinuses were examined histologically on postoperative days 3, 7, and 15 for persistence of the stent and degree of inflammation when compared with CGP alone.

Results

The 91.7% deacetylated CGP formulation was found to have optimal mechanical properties and remained present with moderate degradation and negligible inflammation through postoperative day 15. Dexamethasone levels were detectable in nasal lavage and blood samples through postoperative day 15 and decayed over time (lavage: day 0, 7.70 ± 0.97 ng/mL, and day 15, 2.53 ± 1.71 ng/mL; blood: day 3, 2.51 ± 0.14 ng/mL, and day 15, 1.70 ± 0.36 ng/mL).

Conclusion

CGP may be used to create a semirigid sheet that is malleable, inert, and capable of eluting steroid over 15 days when implanted intranasally. This material may be used to create a pharmacologically active stent that spontaneously degrades over time.
Informed decision making about prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing: Findings and implications from formative testing of a multimodal intervention
Authors: Soloe Cindy , McCormack Lauren , Treiman Katherine , Driscoll David
Published: March 2009

We created the You Decide multimodal intervention to provide men with the information, skills, and reinforcement needed to engage in informed decision making (IDM) related to prostate cancer screening. We developed intervention materials based on three rounds of formative research conducted with 145 members of the intended recipient audience through 10 focus groups and more than 50 individual in-depth interviews. This report documents key findings from our formative research that may apply to the development of other IDM interventions, especially those related to prostate cancer. Our findings underscored (1) the difficulty of promoting IDM for cancer screening given people's high affinity for such screenings, and (2) the challenge of graphically communicating risk-related tradeoffs. We found that pretest participants had a preference for full-story narratives conveying personal experiences and interpersonal learning opportunities. Our formative research findings also supported the need to use plain language to address a range of health literacy levels. We describe our efforts to apply these formative research findings in our final intervention materials and discuss implications for future intervention research. Our findings underscore the importance of involving the intended audience in the process of developing intervention materials.