bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of corneal contact lens wear on healing time and comfort post LGK for treatment of SCCEDs in boxers
Authors: Wooff Penelope J. , Norman Joanna C.
Published: September 2014

Purpose

To determine whether dogs with spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects (SCCEDs) would heal faster and with an improved comfort score following linear grid keratotomy (LGK) combined with corneal contact lens (Acrivet™) wear when compared to dogs having the LGK procedure alone.

Study design

Prospective study.

Methods

Twenty‐seven boxer dogs (27 eyes) diagnosed with a SCCEDs were enrolled in the study. A LGK was performed on all dogs under dexmedetomidine and butorphanol sedation. Fourteen eyes were randomly assigned to receive a corneal contact lens. The dogs were evaluated typically at 7, 10, and 14 days or until the ulceration was healed. Client surveys were completed by the owners to subjectively assess comfort level and contact lens retention. Statistical analyses were performed utilizing generalized linear models and survival analysis with the Wilcoxon–Gehan test to evaluate group differences.

Results

All ulcers healed after the LGK procedure. Dogs with bandage contact lenses had a statistically significant (P = 0.035) decrease in median healing time (7 days (95% CI [7,9]) compared to those without contact lenses (10 days (95% CI [7,12])). There was no difference in subjective comfort score between treatment groups. Early contact loss occurred in 28.6% (95% CI [8.4%, 58.1%]) of dogs. All of the Acrivet™ ruler corneal measurements agreed to within 1 mm (95% CI [87.2%, 100%]) of the Jameson caliper measurements of horizontal corneal diameter.

Conclusions

The use of corneal bandage contact lenses significantly decreased median healing time although there was no effect on subjective comfort score. The Acrivet™ ruler measurements were accurate in determining corneal diameter and therefore contact lens size.
Species‐specific regulation of fibrinogen synthesis with implications for porcine hepatocyte xenotransplantation
Authors: Ramackers Wolf , Klose Johannes , Vondran Florian W. R. , Schrem Harald , Kaltenborn Alexander , Klempnauer Jürgen , Kleine Moritz
Published: September 2014

Background

Patients with liver failure could potentially be bridged with porcine xenogeneic liver cell transplantation. We examined species‐specific differences between primary human and porcine hepatocytes in the regulation of coagulation protein expression and function.

Methods

Isolated primary human and porcine hepatocytes were stimulated with either porcine or human interleukin (IL)‐6 (10 ng/ml), IL‐1β (10 ng/ml), and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α, 30 ng/ml). mRNA expression of coagulation factors were measured by RT‐PCR and real‐time PCR. Cell culture supernatants were used for the measurement of fibrinogen by ELISA and determination of fibrin clot generation.

Results

Fibrinogen expression in human hepatocytes increased after IL‐6 treatment (P = 0.010) and decreased after TNF‐α treatment (P = 0.005). Porcine hepatocytes displayed a lower increase in fibrinogen expression after IL‐6 treatment as compared to hepatocytes of human origin (P = 0.021). Porcine hepatocytes responded contrarily following TNF‐α treatment with an increased expression of fibrinogen resulting in a significant species‐specific difference between human and porcine hepatocytes (P = 0.029). Fibrin polymer generation by human hepatocytes was stable and widely branched after IL‐6 treatment, while stimulation with TNF‐α displayed no fibrin generation at all. In contrast, treatment of porcine hepatocytes with TNF‐α resulted in generation of a stable and widely branched fibrin polymer, and stimulation with IL‐6 only leads to generation of partial fibrin aggregates.

Conclusion

We identified species‐specific differences in the regulation of fibrinogen mRNA expression and fibrin generation under inflammatory stimuli. In hepatic xenotransplantation of porcine origin, these interspecies differences might lead to a loss of physiological coagulation function and a loss of transplanted cells.
Two-Phase Flow Modeling and Measurements in Low-Pressure Turbines—Part I: Numerical Validation of Wet Steam Models and Turbine Modeling
Authors: Grübel M. , Starzmann J. , Schatz M. , Eberle T. , Vogt D. M. , Sieverding F.
Published: September 2014

In this publication, an overview of the current state of wetness modeling at the Institute of Thermal Turbomachinery and Machinery Laboratory (ITSM) is given. For the modeling, an Euler–Euler method implemented in the commercial flow solver Ansys CFX is used. This method is able to take into account the nonequilibrium state of the steam and models the interactions between the gaseous and liquid phases. This paper is the first part of a two-part publication and deals with the numerical validation of wet steam models by means of condensing nozzle and cascade flows. A number of issues with regard to the quality of the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code and the applied condensation models are addressed comparing the results to measurements. It can be concluded that a calibration of the models is necessary to achieve a satisfying agreement with the experimental results. Moreover, the modeling of the low pressure model steam turbine operated at the ITSM is described focusing on the asymmetric flow field in the last stage caused by the axial–radial diffuser. Different simplified axisymmetric diffuser models are investigated in steady state simulations, and the results and the arising issues for part-load, design-load, and over-load conditions are discussed. Thereafter, a comparison between the equilibrium and nonequilibrium steam modeling approaches is performed and the advantage of the nonequilibrium model is highlighted. The second part of the publication focuses on experimental investigations and compares the numerical results to wetness measurement data. For this purpose, different loads are also considered.
Development of a Scrubber in the Deaerator
Authors: Lee Sungyeoul
Published: September 2014

A new design of a scrubber has been developed and used in a deaerator. Deaeration of feed water in the boiler system is an essential process in industry today. Any facilities operating with steam have at least one deaerator to remove dissolved oxygen from the feed water. For an efficient removal process, the feed water has to be heated up to the saturation temperature at the pressure in the outlet section of scrubber. Numerical simulations were conducted for various designs of a scrubber with data used in the power plant industry in Korea and an efficient design was drawn from the numerical results. Experiments were conducted with new design of the scrubber for operating conditions similar to those in a power plant. The experimental results showed an excellent deaerator performance, satisfying the standard requirement of dissolved oxygen level of 5–7 ppb in industry.
Moyamoya syndrome in sickle cell anaemia: a cause of recurrent stroke
Authors: Soares Deanne , Bullock Richard , Ali Susanna
Published: September 2014

We report a case with interesting imaging findings as well as an unfortunate but not unexpected clinical outcome. Our patient, an 8-year-old Jamaican boy of Afro-Caribbean descent with homozygous sickle cell disease, presented with left-sided upper limb weakness. He had a history of recurrent cerebrovascular accidents and transient ischaemic attacks beginning at 4 years of age. MRI revealed old bilateral infarctions and the ivy sign on fluid-attenuated inversion recovery sequences. MR angiography demonstrated numerous collaterals, most apparently arising from the left internal carotid, consistent with moyamoya syndrome. The patient had a full recovery and remained well for almost 2 years when he suffered another stroke.
Primary cutaneous aspergillosis in a preterm neonate
Authors: Rogdo Bjarte , Kahlert Christian , Diener Pierre André , Micallef John
Published: September 2014

Primary cutaneous aspergillosis (PCA) is a rare fungal infection in premature infants. Extreme prematurity, immature immune system, therapy with broad-spectrum antibiotics and systemic steroids, as well as hyperglycaemia and a vulnerable and very thin epidermal layer are considered risk factors in this patient population. We present a premature male infant born at 24+3weeks of gestation with PCA, successfully treated with amphotericin and surgical curettage of the ulcerating skin lesions. Complete resolution of the lesions was achieved and scarring was barely visible at later follow-up.
A pilot double-blind randomised placebo-controlled dose–response trial assessing the effects of melatonin on infertility treatment (MIART): study protocol
Authors: Fernando Shavi , Osianlis Tiki , Vollenhoven Beverley , Wallace Euan , Rombauts Luk
Published: September 2014

Introduction

High levels of oxidative stress can have considerable impact on the outcomes ofin vitrofertilisation (IVF). Recent studies have reported that melatonin, a neurohormone secreted from the pineal gland in response to darkness, has significant antioxidative capabilities which may protect against the oxidative stress of infertility treatment on gametes and embryos. Early studies of oral melatonin (3–4 mg/day) in IVF have suggested favourable outcomes. However, most trials were poorly designed and none have addressed the optimum dose of melatonin. We present a proposal for a pilot double-blind randomised placebo-controlled dose–response trial aimed to determine whether oral melatonin supplementation during ovarian stimulation can improve the outcomes of assisted reproductive technology.

Methods and analyses

We will recruit 160 infertile women into one of four groups: placebo (n=40); melatonin 2 mg twice per day (n=40); melatonin 4 mg twice per day (n=40) and melatonin 8 mg twice per day (n=40). The primary outcome will be clinical pregnancy rate. Secondary clinical outcomes include oocyte number/quality, embryo number/quality and fertilisation rate. We will also measure serum melatonin and the oxidative stress marker, 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine at baseline and after treatment and levels of these in follicular fluid at egg pick-up. We will investigate follicular blood flow with Doppler ultrasound, patient sleepiness scores and pregnancy complications, comparing outcomes between groups. This protocol has been designed in accordance with the SPIRIT 2013 Guidelines.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been obtained from Monash Health HREC (Ref: 13402B), Monash University HREC (Ref: CF14/523-2014000181) and Monash Surgical Private Hospital HREC (Ref: 14107). Data analysis, interpretation and conclusions will be presented at national and international conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12613001317785.
Microcredit participation and child health: results from a cross-sectional study in Peru
Authors: Moseson H , Hamad R , Fernald L
Published: September 2014

Background

Childhood malnutrition is a major consequence of poverty worldwide. Microcredit programmes—which offer small loans, financial literacy and social support to low-income individuals—are increasingly promoted as a way to improve the health of clients and their families. This study evaluates the hypothesis that longer participation in a microcredit programme is associated with improvements in the health of children of microcredit clients.

Methods

Cross-sectional data were collected in February 2007 from 511 clients of a microcredit organisation in Peru and 596 of their children under 5 years of age. The primary predictor variable was length of participation in the microcredit programme. Outcome variables included height, weight, anaemia, household food security and parent-reported indicators of child health. Multivariate linear and logistic regressions assessed the association between the number of loan cycles and child health outcomes. Pathways through which microcredit may have influenced health outcomes were also explored via mediation analyses.

Results

Longer participation in microcredit was associated with greater household food security and reduced likelihood of childhood anaemia. No significant associations were observed between microcredit participation and incidence of childhood illnesses or anthropometric indicators. Increased consumption of red meat may mediate the association between the number of loan cycles and food security, but not the association with anaemia.

Conclusions

The effects of microcredit on the health of clients’ children are understudied. Exploratory findings from this analysis suggest that microcredit may positively influence child health, and that diet may play a causal role.
f(T) gravity and static wormhole solutions
Authors: Sharif Muhammad , Rani Shamaila
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we study static spherically symmetric wormhole solutions in the framework of f(T) gravity, where T represents torsion scalar. We consider non-diagonal tetrad and anisotropic distribution of the fluid. We construct expressions for matter components such as energy density, radial pressure and transverse pressure from the field equations. Taking into account a particular equation of state (EoS) in terms of traceless fluid, we discuss the behavior of energy conditions for wormhole solutions with well-known f(T) and shape functions. We conclude that physically acceptable static wormhole solutions are obtained for both these functions.
Theoretical study of stability and electronic structure of the new type of ferroelectric materials XSnO3 (X = Mn, Zn, Fe, Mg)
Authors: Zhu Wei-Ling , Chen Xing-Yuan , Zhao Yu-Jun , Lai Tian-Shu
Published: September 2014

Based on first-principles calculations and thermodynamic stability analysis, we find that MnSnO 3 and MgSnO 3 could be synthesized under restricted condition, as their bulk phases are stable in a limited chemical potential range with respect to the competing phases. It is also found that FeSnO 3 and ZnSnO 3 are unstable under thermodynamic equilibrium conditions. Electronic structure calculations suggest that the hybridization between TM (transition metal) and O could play important roles for magnetoelectric properties in the XSnO 3 (X = Mn, Zn, Fe), while the hybridization between Sn and O dominates in MgSnO 3.
Analysis of experimental binding curves of EtBr with single- and double-stranded DNA at small fillings
Authors: Vardevanyan Poghos O. , Arakelyan Valeri B. , Parsadanyan Marine A. , Antonyan Ara P. , Hovhannisyan Gohar G. , Shahinyan Mariam A.
Published: September 2014

In this paper, a method that allows to analyze the binding curves of ligand ( EtBr ) with single-stranded (ss) and double-stranded (ds) DNA, when there are at least two modes of ligand binding to DNA at small fillings has been proposed. The obtained experimental binding curves for EtBr –ssDNA and EtBr –dsDNA have two clearly expressed linear regions. These curves were analyzed by two modes: Experimental points on linear regions were described by two different lines and all experimental points were described by single curve. It was revealed that the description by single curve permits obtaining more precise data of binding parameters (i.e. binding constant and number of base pairs that bind one ligand molecule). Moreover, the proposed method permits determining the value of proportion of binding sites of each binding mode.
Effect of gradually increasing germane flow rate during the deposition on the performance of a-SiGe:H solar cell
Authors: Lee Tae-Yong , Jung Ho-Joon , Son Won-Ho , Sohn Young-Soo , Choi Sie-Young
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we fabricated a hydrogenated amorphous silicon-germanium ( a - SiGe : H ) thin film solar cell with gradually increasing GeH 4 flow rate in order to absorb long wavelength of solar spectrum without stacked structures such as tandem or triple junctions. The thin film solar cell with the a - SiGe : H in its intrinsic layer deposited using 13.56 MHz radical-assisted/plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (RA/PECVD) was characterized according to several conditions of gradually varying GeH 4 flow rate. Under AM 1.5 G conditions, open-circuit voltage (V OC ), short-circuit current density (J SC ), fill factor and efficiency have been investigated. Also, external quantum efficiency (EQE) was measured. As a result, the best value of V OC , J SC and fill factor were 0.42 V, 24.16 mA/cm2 and 0.52, respectively. Efficiency of the solar cell was up to 5.3%, and EQE in the wavelength range of 400–800 nm occupied most of photon absorption.
DENSITY FUNCTIONAL THEORY STUDIES ON THE ADSORPTION OF 4-METHYLBENZENETHIOL AND 4-ETHYLBENZENETHIOL MOLECULES ONAu(111) SURFACE
Authors: FANG XIAOLIANG , FAN XIAOLI , RAN RUNXIN , XIAO PIN
Published: September 2014

The nondissociative and dissociated adsorptions of 4-methylbenzenethiol (4-MBT) and 4-ethylbenzenethiol (4-EBT) on Au (111) surface were studied by applying the first-principles method based on density functional theory. The effects of coverage and vdW interactions on adsorptions were investigated. Adsorption energies and tilt angles of both 4-MBT and 4-EBT decrease with the increase of the coverage, and vdW interactions can affect the adsorption configuration and energy. More importantly, in the case of 4-EBT adsorption, we have studied the effects of ethyl group's orientation on the adsorption configuration and energy. Calculation results show that ethyl group's orientation has little effect on the adsorption energy, but changes the tilt angle by around 7°. Our calculations provide a deeper elucidation of the observed adsorption configuration for 4-EBT on Au (111).
IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE INDIAN ECONOMY: EVIDENCE FROM FOOD GRAIN YIELDS
Authors: GUPTA SHREEKANT , SEN PARTHA , SRINIVASAN SUCHITA
Published: September 2014

We analyse the effects of rainfall and temperature on yields of paddy and millets (pearl millet and sorghum) in India for the period 1966–1999, at the district level. Unlike other studies, we control for fertiliser use and irrigation. We find that paddy (India's leading food crop) is sensitive to the climate variables but also to fertiliser use and irrigation. Millets are less affected by climate variables although sorghum shows some sensitivity to temperature. Our results have important implications for how India's agriculture will adapt to climate change.
"Seeking the Light in a Cavity" in Conversation with Nobel Laureate Serge Haroche
Authors: Good Michael , Quek Wei Liang
Published: September 2014

Serge Haroche, Chair in Quantum Physics at the College de France.

Professor Haroche was awarded the 2012 Nobel Prize for Physics for "groundbreaking experimental methods that enable measuring and manipulation of individual quantum systems". On 22 April 2013, the first day of the Berge Fest Conference, Professor Haroche delivered a talk on "Controlling photons in cavities". He reviewed recent experiments in Cavity QED in which his group count trapped microwave photons non-destructively and used quantum feedback methods to stabilize the photon number to a preset value. Further developments of these experiments were also discussed in his talk. The editorial team of Asia Pacific Physics Newsletter interviewed Professor Haroche during the Berge Fest Conference on 24 April 2014. For more information of the Berge Fest Conference, please visit http://bergefest.quantumlah.org/
Bill Gates in Seoul National University (SNU) — The Voice of Innovation
Authors:   Seoul National University
Published: September 2014

On a lazy Sunday, the weather at Seoul National University (SNU) is warm and the bright yellow characteristic of the guenari (forsythia) creates a welcoming atmosphere. Add that to the presence of Bill Gates and students studying for their midterm exams are sure to leave the library, which is exactly what happened on Sunday, April 21 at SNU.
Doctor Who Meets Professor Heisenberg
Authors: Ringbauer Martin , Ralph Tim , White Andrew
Published: September 2014

Lead author and PhD student Martin Ringbauer, from UQ's School of Mathematics and Physics, said the study used photons — single particles of light — to simulate quantum particles travelling through time and study their behaviour, possibly revealing bizarre aspects of modern physics.
The Quantum Indians
Authors: Feng Da-Hsuan
Published: September 2014

In the beginning of the 21st century, India unveiled a movie entitled "Three Idiots". The theme of the movie is to depict the challenges that young Indian people are facing while pursuing advanced engineering education. By watching this movie, one can be impressed by the rise of India's science and technology.
Kavli Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics at Peking University: An International Center for Excellence in China
Authors: Ho Luis C.
Published: September 2014

The Kavli Foundation ( http://www.kavlifoundation.org ) is a US-based private philanthropic organization "dedicated to advancing science for the benefit of humanity, promoting public understanding of scientific research, and supporting scientists and their work." It supports four major areas of basic research, astrophysics, nanoscience, neuroscience, and theoretical physics, through a network of 17 institutes worldwide. Every two years, it awards the prestigious Kavli Prize to "recognize scientists for their seminal advances in astrophysics, nanoscience and neuroscience."
The Raman Research Institute
Authors: Chakraborty Debarshini
Published: September 2014

The Raman Research Institute (RRI) is an autonomous research institute engaged in research on the basic sciences. It is an institute that stands apart from other research institutes in India because of its rich history.
A comparison of professional-level faculty and student perceptions of active learning: its current use, effectiveness, and barriers
Authors: Miller Cynthia J. , Metz Michael J.
Published: September 2014

Active learning is an instructional method in which students become engaged participants in the classroom through the use of in-class written exercises, games, problem sets, audience-response systems, debates, class discussions, etc. Despite evidence supporting the effectiveness of active learning strategies, minimal adoption of the technique has occurred in many professional programs. The goal of this study was to compare the perceptions of active learning between students who were exposed to active learning in the classroom ( n = 116) and professional-level physiology faculty members ( n = 9). Faculty members reported a heavy reliance on lectures and minimal use of educational games and activities, whereas students indicated that they learned best via the activities. A majority of faculty members (89%) had observed active learning in the classroom and predicted favorable effects of the method on student performance and motivation. The main reported barriers by faculty members to the adoption of active learning were a lack of necessary class time, a high comfort level with traditional lectures, and insufficient time to develop materials. Students hypothesized similar obstacles for faculty members but also associated many negative qualities with the traditional lecturers. Despite these barriers, a majority of faculty members (78%) were interested in learning more about the alternative teaching strategy. Both faculty members and students indicated that active learning should occupy portions (29% vs. 40%) of face-to-face class time.
Optical Coherence Tomography in Respiratory Science and Medicine: From Airways to Alveoli
Authors: McLaughlin Robert A. , Noble Peter B. , Sampson David D.
Published: September 2014

Optical coherence tomography is a rapidly maturing optical imaging technology, enabling study of the in vivo structure of lung tissue at a scale of tens of micrometers. It has been used to assess the layered structure of airway walls, quantify both airway lumen caliber and compliance, and image individual alveoli. This article provides an overview of the technology and reviews its capability to provide new insights into respiratory disease.
Vascular TRP Channels: Performing Under Pressure and Going with the Flow
Authors: Hill-Eubanks David C. , Gonzales Albert L. , Sonkusare Swapnil K. , Nelson Mark T.
Published: September 2014

Endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells of resistance arteries mediate opposing responses to mechanical forces acting on the vasculature, promoting dilation in response to flow and constriction in response to pressure, respectively. In this review, we explore the role of TRP channels, particularly endothelial TRPV4 and smooth muscle TRPC6 and TRPM4 channels, in vascular mechanosensing circuits, placing their putative mechanosensitivity in context with other proposed upstream and downstream signaling pathways.
Managing, Analysing, and Integrating Big Data in Medical Bioinformatics: Open Problems and Future Perspectives
Authors: Merelli Ivan , Pérez-Sánchez Horacio , Gesing Sandra , D’Agostino Daniele
Published: September 2014

The explosion of the data both in the biomedical research and in the healthcare systems demands urgent solutions. In particular, the research in omics sciences is moving from a hypothesis-driven to a data-driven approach. Healthcare is additionally always asking for a tighter integration with biomedical data in order to promote personalized medicine and to provide better treatments. Efficient analysis and interpretation of Big Data opens new avenues to explore molecular biology, new questions to ask about physiological and pathological states, and new ways to answer these open issues. Such analyses lead to better understanding of diseases and development of better and personalized diagnostics and therapeutics. However, such progresses are directly related to the availability of new solutions to deal with this huge amount of information. New paradigms are needed to store and access data, for its annotation and integration and finally for inferring knowledge and making it available to researchers. Bioinformatics can be viewed as the “glue” for all these processes. A clear awareness of present high performance computing (HPC) solutions in bioinformatics, Big Data analysis paradigms for computational biology, and the issues that are still open in the biomedical and healthcare fields represent the starting point to win this challenge.
Dilemma of Basic School Pupils in Northern Ghana with respect to Their Learning Context
Authors: Abdallah Hakim , Fuseini Moses Naiim , Abudu Amadu Musah , Nuhu Yusif
Published: September 2014

Lately, basic school pupils have performed poorly in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) as well as in their end of term examinations and this necessitated an enquiry into the phenomenon. The study used the cross-sectional study design. The sample size was 195. The study collected data using a questionnaire. Data analysis involved using descriptive statistics. The study found that largely pupils from academically performing and nonacademically performing schools have similar perceptions about causes of poor academic performance. Again, the combined effect of home and school environmental factors emerged as the major contributor to poor academic performance. The study recommends that providing a conducive home environment for the pupils, tackling pupil and teacher related factors, would help to ensure that poor academic performance is a thing of the past.
Thermal Conductivity of Uranium Nitride and Carbide
Authors: Szpunar B. , Szpunar J. A.
Published: September 2014

We investigate the electronic thermal conductivity of alternative fuels like uranium nitride and uranium carbide. We evaluate the electronic contribution to the thermal conductivity, by combining first-principles quantum-mechanical calculations with semiclassical correlations. The electronic structure of UN and UC was calculated using Quantum Espresso code. The spin polarized calculations were performed for a ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic ordering of magnetic moments on uranium lattice and magnetic moment in UC was lower than in UN due to stronger hybridization between 2p electrons of carbon and 5f electrons of uranium. The nonmagnetic electronic structure calculations were used as an input to BolzTrap code that was used to evaluate the electronic thermal conductivity. It is predicted that the thermal conductivity should increase with the temperature increase, but to get a quantitative agreement with the experiment at higher temperatures the interaction of electrons with phonons (and electron-electron scattering) needs to be included.
Sequence Planning and Tool Selection for Bending Processes of 2.5D Sheet Metals
Authors: Lin Alan C. , Chen Chao-Fan
Published: September 2014

Planning of an appropriate bending sequence is one of the most important aspects in the processing of sheet metals as the appropriateness of the plan affects correct selection of bending tools and feasibility of bending processes. This study aims to propose a set of principles to be followed for the planning of bending sequences and selection of bending tools for 2.5D sheet metals. To this end, we first define basic bending patterns by characterizing each pattern with a set of operation rules. The sheet metal is then decomposed into a series of bending patterns that is in turn used in the planning of bending sequences. In order to select the bending tools, we combine the contours of each bending operation, choose appropriate bending punches from the bending-tool database, and then undertake an interference check with the bending contours.
Safety Control on the Chocking Process of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Pipeline
Authors: Zhao Qing , Li Yuxing , Li Shunli
Published: September 2014

Transportation safety of supercritical CO2 pipeline is a key aspect of carbon capture and storage (CCS). For reducing the high pressure in supercritical pipeline when accidental cases arise, man-made release will be applied using chocking process. The downstream parameters of chocking process can be predicted based on the adiabatic process assumption. In the critical chocking process, the critical velocity at outlet is sonic. A chocking pipe can be designed for buffering between different chocking orifices according to the length of turbulence area produced by jetting momentum. For the effect of noise hazard produced by large jetting velocity, a muffler can be applied at the outlet of final stage orifice to atmosphere. For the influence of impurities on the chocking process of anthropogenic CO2 pipeline, the presence of SO2 as an impurity is helpful for increasing the downstream temperatures through the chocking device to prevent the frozen hazard, whereas the presence of N2 as an impurity indicates a lower downstream temperature. The higher initial temperature can prevent the dry ice formation at the outlet of vent pipe when the multistage chocking is applied.
A Miniature Four-Hole Probe for Measurement of Three-Dimensional Flow with Large Gradients
Authors: Jangir Ravirai , Sitaram Nekkanti , Gajanan Ct
Published: September 2014

A miniature four-hole probe with a sensing area of 1.284 mm2to minimise the measurement errors due to the large pressure and velocity gradients that occur in highly three-dimensional turbomachinery flows is designed, fabricated, calibrated, and validated. The probe has good spatial resolution in two directions, thus minimising spatial and flow gradient errors. The probe is calibrated in an open jet calibration tunnel at a velocity of 50 m/s in yaw and pitch angles range of ±40 degrees with an interval of 5 degrees. The calibration coefficients are defined, determined, and presented. Sensitivity coefficients are also calculated and presented. A lookup table method is used to determine the four unknown quantities, namely, total and static pressures and flow angles. The maximum absolute errors in yaw and pitch angles are 2.4 and 1.3 deg., respectively. The maximum absolute errors in total, static, and dynamic pressures are 3.4, 3.9, and 4.9% of the dynamic pressures, respectively. Measurements made with this probe, a conventional five-hole probe and a miniature Pitot probe across a calibration section, demonstrated that the errors due to gradient and surface proximity for this probe are considerably reduced compared to the five-hole probe.
FDIR for the IMU Component of AOCS Systems
Authors: Pontuschka Maurício N. , da Fonseca Ijar M.
Published: September 2014

The main objective of this paper is the study of a FDIR for an IMU aiming at space applications with focus on the gyro signal analysis and the tests of the filtering algorithms. The algorithms have been tested by using lab data provided by the DMC LABSIM (Physical’s Simulation Laboratory of the Space Mechanics and Control Division of INPE). The results have demonstrated good agreement with the concepts applied in this study. Automatic detection procedures are very important in the characterization of occurrence, definition of criteria, and device types in the scenario of AOCS FDIR. An IMU comprised of four gyros in a tetrahedral configuration is one of the assumed components for the AOCS (attitude and orbit control subsystem) considered in this work. The types of failures considered in this paper are the step abrupt change, ramp/drift/slow, stuck, cyclic, erratic, spike, and finally the stuck for variance alteration noise. An appropriate algorithm for the automatic detection of each type of fault is developed. The approach includes the mapping capability of fault event indicators to the IMU. This mapping is very important in the characterization of the occurrence, definition of criteria, and device types as well as associated fault identification for an AOCS.
Survival Advantage Associated with Decrease in Stage at Detection from Stage IIIC to Stage IIIA Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Hoff John , Baldwin Lauren , Lefringhouse Jason , Pavlik Edward , Miller Rachel , DeSimone Christopher , Ueland Frederick , Tucker Thomas , Kryscio Richard , van Nagell J. R.
Published: September 2014

Objective.The aim of this study was to document the survival advantage of lowering stage at detection from Stage IIIC to Stage IIIA epithelial ovarian cancer.Methods.Treatment outcomes and survival were evaluated in patients with Stage IIIA and Stage IIIC epithelial ovarian cancer treated from 2000 to 2009 at the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center (UKMCC) and SEER institutions.Results.Cytoreduction to no visible disease (P<0.0001) and complete response to platinum-based chemotherapy (P<0.025) occurred more frequently in Stage IIIA than in Stage IIIC cases. Time to progression was shorter in patients with Stage IIIC ovarian cancer (17±1months) than in those with Stage II1A disease (36±8months). Five-year overall survival (OS) improved from 41% in Stage IIIC patients to 60% in Stage IIIA patients treated at UKMCC and from 37% to 56% in patients treated at SEER institutions for a survival advantage of 19% in both data sets. 53% of Stage IIIA and 14% of Stage IIIC patients had NED at last followup.Conclusions.Decreasing stage at detection from Stage IIIC to stage IIIA epithelial ovarian cancer is associated with a 5-year survival advantage of nearly 20% in patients treated by surgical tumor cytoreduction and platinum-based chemotherapy.
Allocating Freight Empty Cars in Railway Networks with Dynamic Demands
Authors: Zhao Ce , Yang Lixing , Li Shukai
Published: September 2014

This paper investigates the freight empty cars allocation problem in railway networks with dynamic demands, in which the storage cost, unit transportation cost, and demand in each stage are taken into consideration. Under the constraints of capacity and demand, a stage-based optimization model for allocating freight empty cars in railway networks is formulated. The objective of this model is to minimize the total cost incurred by transferring and storing empty cars in different stages. Moreover, a genetic algorithm is designed to obtain the optimal empty cars distribution strategies in railway networks. Finally, numerical experiments are given to show the effectiveness of the proposed model and algorithm.
Low-Vacuum Deposition of Glutamic Acid and Pyroglutamic Acid: A Facile Methodology for Depositing Organic Materials beyond Amino Acids
Authors: Sugimoto Iwao , Maeda Shunsaku , Suda Yoriko , Makihara Kenji , Takahashi Kazuhiko
Published: September 2014

Thin layers of pyroglutamic acid (Pygl) have been deposited by thermal evaporation of the molten L-glutamic acid (L-Glu) through intramolecular lactamization. This deposition was carried out with the versatile handmade low-vacuum coater, which was simply composed of a soldering iron placed in a vacuum degassing resin chamber evacuated by an oil-free diaphragm pump. Molecular structural analyses have revealed that thin solid film evaporated from the molten L-Glu is mainly composed of L-Pygl due to intramolecular lactamization. The major component of the L-Pygl was in β-phase and the minor component was in γ-phase, which would have been generated from partial racemization to DL-Pygl. Electron microscopy revealed that the L-Glu-evaporated film generally consisted of the 20 nm particulates of Pygl, which contained a periodic pattern spacing of 0.2 nm intervals indicating the formation of the single-molecular interval of the crystallized molecular networks. The DL-Pygl-evaporated film was composed of the original DL-Pygl preserving its crystal structures. This methodology is promising for depositing a wide range of the evaporable organic materials beyond amino acids. The quartz crystal resonator coated with the L-Glu-evaporated film exhibited the pressure-sensing capability based on the adsorption-desorption of the surrounding gas at the film surface.
Risk Assessment of BRONJ in Oncologic Patients Treated with Bisphosphonates: Follow-Up to 18 Months
Authors: Sparabombe Scilla , Vitali Lucia , Nori Alessandra , Berlin Ricarda Sara , Mazur Marta , Orsini Giovanna , Putignano Angelo
Published: September 2014

Objectives.Bisphosphonates related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) is a pathological condition characterized by bone exposure or latent infection in patients treated with the drug. The aim of the study is to monitor the BRONJ level of risk health in patients with cancer, according to a preventive clinical protocol, which is firstly aimed at reducing risk factors such as the periodontal infections.Materials and Methods.10 patients participated in the protocol and were evaluated at baseline and after 3 and 18 months of treatment with bisphosphonates, through full mouth plaque and bleeding scores (FMPS and FMBS), clinical attachment level (CAL) measurement, and the occurrence of osteonecrosis.Results.The mean plaque and bleeding were reduced and the CAL has not shown significant changes and in no cases was there manifestation of BRONJ.Conclusion.The protocol proved crucial for the maintenance of good oral health conditions by eliminating the risk of BRONJ during the observation period.
Flower Pollination Algorithm with Dimension by Dimension Improvement
Authors: Wang Rui , Zhou Yongquan
Published: September 2014

Flower pollination algorithm (FPA) is a new nature‐inspired intelligent algorithm which uses the whole update and evaluation strategy on solutions. For solving multidimension function optimization problems, this strategy may deteriorate the convergence speed and the quality of solution of algorithm due to interference phenomena among dimensions. To overcome this shortage, in this paper a dimension by dimension improvement based flower pollination algorithm is proposed. In the progress of iteration of improved algorithm, a dimension by dimension based update and evaluation strategy on solutions is used. And, in order to enhance the local searching ability, local neighborhood search strategy is also applied in this improved algorithm. The simulation experiments show that the proposed strategies can improve the convergence speed and the quality of solutions effectively.
New Uncertainty Measure of Rough Fuzzy Sets and Entropy Weight Method for Fuzzy-Target Decision-Making Tables
Authors: Qin Huani , Luo Darong
Published: September 2014

In the rough fuzzy set theory, the rough degree is used to characterize the uncertainty of a fuzzy set, and the rough entropy of a knowledge is used to depict the roughness of a rough classification. Both of them are effective, but they are not accurate enough. In this paper, we propose a new rough entropy of a rough fuzzy set combining the rough degree with the rough entropy of a knowledge. Theoretical studies and examples show that the new rough entropy of a rough fuzzy set is suitable. As an application, we introduce it into a fuzzy-target decision-making table and establish a new method for evaluating the entropy weight of attributes.
MicroRNA Profiling Reveals Unique miRNA Signatures in IGF-1 Treated Embryonic Striatal Stem Cell Fate Decisions in Striatal NeurogenesisIn Vitro
Authors: Pati Soumya , Supeno Nor Entan , Muthuraju Sangu , Abdul Hadi Raisah , Ghani Abdul Rahman Izaini , Idris Fauziah Mohamad , Maletic-Savatic Mirjana , Abdullah Jafri Malin , Jaafar Hasnan
Published: September 2014

The striatum is considered to be the central processing unit of the basal ganglia in locomotor activity and cognitive function of the brain. IGF-1 could act as a control switch for the long-term proliferation and survival of EGF + bFGF-responsive cultured embryonic striatal stem cell (ESSC), while LIF imposes a negative impact on cell proliferation. The IGF-1-treated ESSCs also showed elevated hTERT expression with demonstration of self-renewal and trilineage commitment (astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and neurons). In order to decipher the underlying regulatory microRNA (miRNA)s in IGF-1/LIF-treated ESSC-derived neurogenesis, we performed in-depth miRNA profiling at 12 daysin vitroand analyzed the candidates using the Partek Genome Suite software. The annotated miRNA fingerprints delineated the differential expressions of miR-143, miR-433, and miR-503 specific to IGF-1 treatment. Similarly, the LIF-treated ESSCs demonstrated specific expression of miR-326, miR-181, and miR-22, as they were nonsignificant in IGF-treated ESSCs. To elucidate the possible downstream pathways, we performedin silicomapping of the said miRNAs into ingenuity pathway analysis. Our findings revealed the important mRNA targets of the miRNAs and suggested specific interactomes. The above studies introduced a new genre of miRNAs for ESSC-based neuroregenerative therapeutic applications.
N-Soliton Solutions of the Nonisospectral Generalized Sawada-Kotera Equation
Authors: Zhou Jian , Li Xiang-Gui , Wang Deng-Shan
Published: September 2014

The soliton interaction is investigated based on solving the nonisospectral generalized Sawada-Kotera (GSK) equation. By using Hirota method, the analytic one-, two-, three-, andN-soliton solutions of this model are obtained. According to those solutions, the relevant properties and features of line-soliton and bright-soliton are illustrated. The results of this paper will be useful to the study of soliton resonance in the inhomogeneous media.
Agenesis of Submandibular Glands: A Report of Two Cases with Review of Literature
Authors: Kara Medine , Güçlü Oğuz , Dereköy Fevzi Sefa , Resorlu Mustafa , Adam Gürhan
Published: September 2014

Background. Congenital absence of the submandibular gland (SMG) is a rare condition. Although complaints such as dry mouth, dental problems, or difficulty in swallowing may be seen, the subjects may also be asymptomatic. The absence of the SMG may be associated with hypertrophy of the contralateral SMG.Case Report. We report the case of a 44-year-old woman with incidentally detected left SMG aplasia, with contralateral SMG hypertrophy mimicking a mass, and the case of a 46-year-old woman with incidentally detected bilateral SMG aplasia, demonstrated by computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).Conclusion. It is important for the clinician to know that this very rare abnormality may exist. When such a case is encountered, symptoms and findings should be reevaluated and, if necessary, conservative therapy should be initiated. The possibility of observing additional deformities should be kept in mind and an evaluation should be done for other cases in the family.
Lipid Based Vesicular Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Jain Shikha , Jain Vikas , Mahajan S. C.
Published: September 2014

Vesicular drug delivery system can be defined as highly ordered assemblies consisting of one or more concentric bilayers formed as a result of self-assembling of amphiphilic building blocks in presence of water. Vesicular drug delivery systems are particularly important for targeted delivery of drugs because of their ability to localize the activity of drug at the site or organ of action thereby lowering its concentration at the other sites in body. Vesicular drug delivery system sustains drug action at a predetermined rate, relatively constant (zero order kinetics), efficient drug level in the body, and simultaneously minimizes the undesirable side effects. It can also localize drug action in the diseased tissue or organ by targeted drug delivery using carriers or chemical derivatization. Different types of pharmaceutical carriers such as polymeric micelles, particulate systems, and macro- and micromolecules are presented in the form of novel drug delivery system for targeted delivery of drugs. Particulate type carrier also known as colloidal carrier system, includes lipid particles, micro- and nanoparticles, micro- and nanospheres, polymeric micelles and vesicular systems like liposomes, sphingosomes, niosomes, transfersomes, aquasomes, ufasomes, and so forth.
Assessment of the Common Risk Factors Associated with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Jeddah
Authors: Murad Manal A. , Abdulmageed Samia S. , Iftikhar Rahila , Sagga Bayan Khaled
Published: September 2014

Risk factor management is important in avoiding life-threatening complications and preventing new-onset diabetes. We performed a case-control study in 2013 at ten primary health care centers in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia to determine the common risk factors of diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2) and the demographic background of adult Saudi patients with DM2. Known diabetic patients were recruited as cases, while nondiabetic attendants were selected as controls. A pretested designed questionnaire was used to collect data from 159 cases and 128 controls. Cases were more likely than controls to be men (P<0.0001), less educated (P<0.0001), natives of eastern Saudi Arabia (P<0.0001), retired (P<0.0001), lower-salaried (P<0.0001), or married or divorced (P<0.0001). By univariate analysis cases were likely to be current smokers (P<0.0001), hypertensive (P<0.0001), or overweight/obese (P<0.0001). Cases were also more likely to have a history of DM in a first-degree relative (P=0.020). By multivariate analysis, cases were more likely to be older than 40 years (P<0.0001), less educated (P=0.05), married or divorced (P=0.04), jobless/housewives (P<0.0001), or current smokers (P=0.002). They were also more likely to have salaries <7000 Saudi riyals (P=0.01). Overall, prediabetic and high risk groups should be identified and counseled early before the occurrence of diabetes.
Robot-Assisted Excision of a Pararectal Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor in a Patient with Previous Ileal Neobladder
Authors: Ploumidis A. , Mottrie A. , Spinoit A. F. , Gan M. , Ficarra V. , Andrianne R.
Published: September 2014

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most frequent mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract with surgical resection remaining the cornerstone of therapy. Pararectal lesions are considered to be technically difficult and pose in some cases a challenge. We report, to the best of our knowledge, the first robotic-assisted pararectal GIST excision. A 43-year-old man was referred to our center with pararectal GIST recurrence, despite treatment with targeted therapy. Eleven years ago, he underwent extensive abdominal surgery including cystoprostatectomy with ileal neobladder diversion due to GIST resection in the rectoprostatic space. Robot-assisted surgical resection was successfully performed without the need for temporary colostomy. The postoperative course of the patient was uneventful, and the pathology report confirmed a GIST recurrence with negative surgical margins and pelvic lymph nodes free of any tumor. Robotic-assisted pelvic surgery can be extended to incorporate excision of pararectal GISTs, as a safe, less invasive surgical alternative with promising oncological results and minimal injury to adjacent structures.