bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling Liquid Slugs Accelerating in Inclined Conduits
Authors: Korzilius Stan P. , Tijsseling Arris S. , Bozkuş Zafer , Anthonissen Martijn J. H. , Schilders Wil H. A.
Published: August 2017

In this article, we simulate traveling liquid slugs in conduits, as they may occur in systems carrying high-pressure steam. We consider both horizontal and inclined pipes in which the slug is accelerated by a suddenly applied pressure gradient, while at the same time, gravity and friction work in the opposite direction. This causes a steep slug front and an extended slug tail. The shapes of front and tail are of interest since they determine the forces exerted on bends and other obstacles in the piping system. The study also aims at improving existing one-dimensional (1D) models. A hybrid model is proposed that enables us to leave out the larger inner part of the slug. It was found that the hybrid model speeds up the two-dimensional (2D) computations significantly, while having no adverse effects on the shapes of the slug's front and tail.
Characterization of Alloy 214 After Exposure to Superheated Steam at 800 °C
Authors: Tepylo Nick , Garcia Sanchez Rainier , Huang Xiao
Published: August 2017

In this study, an Al-containing alloy 214 was evaluated in superheated steam at 800 °C for a duration of 600 h. The purpose of using superheated steam was to simulate the supercritical water (SCW) condition at higher temperatures where no commercial SCW rig is currently capable of reaching (800 °C and beyond). After exposure to superheated steam, the weight change and surface oxidation were analyzed. Alloy 214 experienced greater weight gain than IN 625 and Ni20Cr5Al, due to its low Cr content. Formation of both Cr2O3 and Al2O3 was observed on the surface after 300 and 600 h of exposure. However, as exposure progressed, more Ni and Mn-containing spinel started to form, signaling Cr and Al depletion on the metal substrate surface.
Assessment of Convective Heat Transfer Correlations Against an Expanded Database for Different Fluids at Supercritical Pressures
Authors: Zahlan Hussam A. M. , Leung Laurence K. H. , Huang Yan-Ping , Liu Guang-Xu
Published: August 2017

Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) has recently expanded the supercritical heat transfer (SCHT) databank with additional data provided by the Nuclear Power Institute of China (NPIC). These additional data cover flow conditions beyond the current databank, and are applicable for improving or validating existing correlations. The expanded databank comprises more than 41,000 points of heat-transfer measurements with different fluids flowing vertically upward in tubes, annuli, and bundles at supercritical (SC) pressures. It has been applied in assessing the prediction accuracy of 24 heat-transfer correlations, which were derived from experimental data obtained with water or nonaqueous fluids (such as carbon dioxide) flowing in tubes. For the correlation assessment, a sensitivity analysis has been performed by applying the measured wall temperature as an independent parameter. The assessment against the bundle data was based on cross-sectional-averaged flow conditions and the hydraulic diameter. The iterative approach (i.e., without prior knowledge of the wall temperature) overpredicted the wall temperature, which is conservative in safety analyses.
Investigation of the influence of oxygen plasma on supported silver nanoparticles
Authors: Duan Yichen , Rani Sana , Newberg John T. , Teplyakov Andrew V.
Published: August 2017

Silver deposition precursor molecule trimethylphosphine(hexafluoroacetylacetonato)silver(I) [(hfac)AgP(CH3)3] was used to deposit silver onto water-modified (hydroxyl-terminated) solid substrates. A silicon wafer was used as a model flat surface, and water-predosed ZnO nanopowder was investigated to expand the findings to a common substrate material for possible practical applications. Following the deposition, oxygen plasma was used to remove the remaining organic ligands on a surface and to investigate its effect on the morphology of chemically deposited silver nanoparticles and films. A combination of microscopic and spectroscopic techniques including electron microscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was used to confirm the change in the morphology of the deposited material consistent with Ostwald ripening as a result of plasma treatment. Particle agglomeration was observed on the surfaces, and the deposited metallic silver was oxidized to Ag2O following plasma treatment. The fluorine-containing ligands were completely removed. This result suggests that chemical vapor deposition can be used to deposit silver in a very controlled manner onto a variety of substrates using different topography methods and that the post-treatment with oxygen plasma is effective in preparing materials deposited for potential practical applications.
Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) auditory brainstem responses recorded using conventional and randomized stimulation and averaging
Authors: Finneran James J.
Published: August 2017

Auditory brainstem response (ABR) measurements using conventional averaging (i.e., constant interstimulus interval, ISI) are limited to stimulus rates low enough to prevent overlapping of the ABRs to successive stimuli. To overcome this limitation, stimuli may be presented at high rates using pseudorandom sequences (e.g., maximum length sequences) or quasi-periodic sequences; however, these methods restrict the available stimulus sequences and require deconvolution to recover the ABR from the overlapping responses. Randomized stimulation and averaging (RSA) is an alternate method where evoked responses at high rates are obtained by averaging responses to stimuli with ISIs drawn from a random distribution. The RSA method enables precise control over stimulus jitter, is flexible with respect to stimulus sequence parameters, and does not require deconvolution to extract the ABR waveform. In this study, ABRs were measured in three normal-hearing dolphins using conventional averaging and RSA. Results show the RSA method to be effective in dolphins if the ISI jitter ≥ ∼1.5 ms and that the influence of stimulus artifacts in the averaged ABR can be substantially reduced by alternating stimulus polarity on successive presentations rather than employing digital blanking or iterative processes.
Herpes simplex transmission to chest and face through autoinoculation in an infant
Authors: van Vonderen Jeroen J , Stol Kim , Buddingh Emmeline P , van der Kaay Danielle CM
Published: August 2017

A 4-month-old female infant presented with a vesicular lesion on her left hand present since 1 day. A few days prior to presentation, she had a similar lesion on the lower lip. Two days after presentation, she returned with new lesions on her thorax and upper eyelid. PCR of the vesicle was positive for herpes simplex virus type 1. The transmission to her chest and face probably resulted from autoinoculation, caused by rubbing of the hand on other parts of the body. Transmission of herpes simplex through skin-to-skin contact is a common route of infection in people engaging in contact sports. Antiviral therapy was started because of the extensiveness and expansion of lesions and risk of developing herpetic keratitis. The patient completely recovered. This case shows that in an otherwise healthy infant, multiple herpetic skin lesions were not due to disseminated infection, but through autoinoculation.
Solitary biceps muscle metastasis from breast cancer
Authors: Almusarhed Manar , Eldeeb Hany
Published: August 2017

Although direct muscle invasion by carcinoma is well recognised, skeletal muscle metastases are rare. Breast cancer very rarely metastasises to skeletal muscles. We present a case of breast cancer that metastasised to the biceps muscle. The woman developed breast cancer in 1990 and then developed axillary subcutaneous metastasis in 2001. In 2015, she presented with pain in the left forearm extending to the hand. Initial imaging showed no abnormalities, but the positron emission tomography-CT scanning revealed a hot spot in the left biceps muscle. Additionally, the nerve conduction study showed feature of carpal tunnel syndrome. The hot spot was deemed inconclusive in the view of normal CT and MRI scans, and the patient was treated with carpal tunnel decompression. A few months later, the patient developed a lump in the left biceps muscle, which appeared to be a metastatic lesion from her primary breast cancer. The patient was treated with radiotherapy and responded satisfactorily.
International Olympic Committee consensus statement on pain management in elite athletes
Authors: Hainline Brian , Derman Wayne , Vernec Alan , Budgett Richard , Deie Masataka , Dvořák Jiří , Harle Chris , Herring Stanley A , McNamee Mike , Meeuwisse Willem , Lorimer Moseley G , Omololu Bade , Orchard John , Pipe Andrew , Pluim Babette M , Ræder Johan , Siebert Christian , Stewart Mike , Stuart Mark , Turner Judith A , Ware Mark , Zideman David , Engebretsen Lars
Published: August 2017

Pain is a common problem among elite athletes and is frequently associated with sport injury. Both pain and injury interfere with the performance of elite athletes. There are currently no evidence-based or consensus-based guidelines for the management of pain in elite athletes. Typically, pain management consists of the provision of analgesics, rest and physical therapy. More appropriately, a treatment strategy should address all contributors to pain including underlying pathophysiology, biomechanical abnormalities and psychosocial issues, and should employ therapies providing optimal benefit and minimal harm. To advance the development of a more standardised, evidence-informed approach to pain management in elite athletes, an IOC Consensus Group critically evaluated the current state of the science and practice of pain management in sport and prepared recommendations for a more unified approach to this important topic.
Pain in elite athletes—neurophysiological, biomechanical and psychosocial considerations: a narrative review
Authors: Hainline Brian , Turner Judith A , Caneiro J P , Stewart Mike , Lorimer Moseley G
Published: August 2017

Pain is a common problem among elite athletes and is frequently associated with sport injury. Both injury and pain interfere with peak performance. Pain management should be based on the physiological, anatomical and psychosocial influences on the individual’s pain and is not equivalent to injury management, which focuses on musculoskeletal recovery and return-to-play. This narrative review provides a foundation for understanding the differing causes and types of pain in elite athletes, thereby serving as a springboard for comprehensive pain management.
Using simulation to iteratively test and re-design a cognitive aid for use in the management of severe local anaesthetic toxicity
Authors: McIntosh Catherine A , Donnelly David , Marr Robert
Published: August 2017

Introduction

Cognitive aids, such as a guideline for the management of severe local anaesthetic (LA) toxicity, are tools designed to help users complete a task. Human factors experts recommend the use of simulation to iteratively test and re-design these tools. The purpose of this study was to apply human factors engineering principles to the testing and iterative re-design of three existing cognitive aids used for the management of severe LA toxicity and to use these data to develop a ‘new’ cognitive aid.

Methods

Twenty anaesthetist–anaesthetic assistant pairs were randomised into four groups. Each of the first three groups received one of three different existing cognitive aids during a standardised simulated LA toxicity crisis. Postsimulation semistructured interviews were conducted to identify features beneficial and detrimental to the format and usability of the aid. Synthesis of the interview data with established checklist design recommendations resulted in a prototype aid, which was subjected to further testing and re-design by the fourth group (five more pairs) under the same conditions thus creating the final iteration of the new aid.

Results

Features of the new aid included a single-stream flowchart structure, single-sided, large-font design with colour contrast, simplified instructions and no need for calculations. This simplified tool contains only the information users reported as essential for the immediate crisis management.

Conclusions

Utilisation of formative usability testing and simulation-based user-centred design resulted in a visually very different cognitive aid and reinforces the importance of designing aids in the context in which they are to be used. Simplified tools may be more appropriate for use in emergencies but more detailed guidelines may be necessary for training, education and development of local standard operating procedures. Iterative simulation-based testing and re-design is likely to be of assistance when developing aids for other crises, and to eliminate design failure as a confounder when investigating the relationship between use of cognitive aids and performance.
BET 1: SIRS criteria as a way of predicting mortality in acute pancreatitis
Authors: Wilson Joel , Zarabi Sahar
Published: August 2017

A shortcut review was carried out to establish whether the presence of systemic inflammatory response criteria in emergency department patients with pancreatitis is predictive of the risk of death. Eight papers presented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The review concludes that the presence of SIRS in emergency department patients with pancreatitis is associated with a higher risk of mortality.
Acute stress-induced (takotsubo) cardiomyopathy
Authors: Dawson Dana K
Published: August 2017

Acute stress-induced (takotsubo) cardiomyopathy has a dramatic clinical presentation, mimicking an acute myocardial infarction and is triggered by intense emotional or physical stress. In this paper, we review the current state of knowledge of the mechanistic physiology underlying the left ventricular ballooning. The pathophysiology of the recovery from this acute heart failure syndrome is presented. The short-term and long-term outlook puts this new syndrome on a different perspective compared with recently held views. Current knowledge on susceptibility and predisposition already define distinctive characteristics of patients with takotsubo compared with myocardial infarction. Gaps in knowledge and future directions of research are identified in order to best direct efforts for identifying specific therapies for this condition, in the acute setting, to mitigate postacute symptoms or to prevent recurrences, none of which exist.
Innovative haematological parameters for early diagnosis of sepsis in adult patients admitted in intensive care unit
Authors: Buoro Sabrina , Manenti Barbara , Seghezzi Michela , Dominoni Paola , Barbui Tiziano , Ghirardi Arianna , Carobbio Alessandra , Marchesi Gianmariano , Riva Ivano , Nasi Alessandra , Ottomano Cosimo , Lippi Giuseppe
Published: August 2017

Aims

This study was aimed to investigate the role of erythrocyte, platelet and reticulocyte (RET) parameters, measured by new haematological analyser Sysmex XN and C reactive protein (CRP), for early diagnosis of sepsis during intensive care unit (ICU) stay.

Methods

The study population consisted of 62 ICU patients, 21 of whom developed sepsis during ICU stay and 41 who did not. The performance for early diagnosing of sepsis was calculated as area under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristics curves analysis.

Results

Compared with CRP (AUC 0.81), immature platelet fraction (IPF) (AUC 0.82) showed comparable efficiency for identifying the onset of sepsis. The association with the risk of developing sepsis during ICU stay was also assessed. One day before the onset of sepsis, a decreased of RET% was significantly associated with the risk of developing sepsis (OR=0.35, 95% CI 0.14 to 0.87), whereas an increased of IPF absolute value (IPF#) was significantly associated with the risk of developing sepsis (OR=1.13, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.24) 2 days before the onset of sepsis. The value of CRP was not predictive of sepsis at either time points.

Conclusions

IPF# and RET% may provide valuable clinical information for predicting the risk of developing sepsis, thus allowing early management of patients before the onset of clinically evident systemic infections.
Dietary acid load and renal function have varying effects on blood acid-base status and exercise performance across age and sex
Authors: Hietavala Enni-Maria , Stout Jeffrey R. , Frassetto Lynda A. , Puurtinen Risto , Pitkänen Hannu , Selänne Harri , Suominen Harri , Mero Antti A.
Published: August 2017

Diet composition influences acid-base status of the body. This may become more relevant as renal functional capacity declines with aging. We examined the effects of low (LD) versus high dietary acid load (HD) on blood acid-base status and exercise performance. Participants included 22 adolescents, 33 young adults (YA), and 33 elderly (EL), who followed a 7-day LD and HD in a randomized order. At the end of both diet periods the subjects performed a cycle ergometer test (3 × 10 min at 35%, 55%, 75%, and (except EL) until exhaustion at 100% of maximal oxygen uptake). At the beginning of and after the diet periods, blood samples were collected at rest and after all workloads. Oxygen uptake, respiratory exchange ratio (RER), and heart rate (HR) were monitored during cycling. In YA and EL, bicarbonate (HCO3−) and base excess (BE) decreased over the HD period, and HCO3−, BE, and pH were lower at rest after HD compared with LD. In YA and EL women, HCO3− and BE were lower at submaximal workloads after HD compared with LD. In YA women, the maximal workload was 19% shorter and maximal oxygen uptake, RER, and HR were lower after HD compared with LD. Our data uniquely suggests that better renal function is associated with higher availability of bases, which may diminish exercise-induced acidosis and improve maximal aerobic performance. Differences in glomerular filtration rate between the subject groups likely explains the larger effects of dietary acid load in the elderly compared with younger subjects and in women compared with men.
Influence of water and lubricant fluids on peak strength of Queenston shale from southern Ontario
Authors: Al-Maamori Hayder Mohammed Salim , El Naggar Mohamed Hesham , Micic Silvana , Lo K.Y.
Published: August 2017

The strength of Milton Queenston shale (MQS) before and after soaking in water and lubricant fluids (LFs) was examined. The investigated LFs (i.e., bentonite and polymer solutions) are utilized in the microtunnelling technique (MTT) to facilitate the installation of tunnel or pipe sections. To investigate the relevant mechanical properties of MQS under different wetting conditions, a series of laboratory tests including Brazilian split, uniaxial compression, and triaxial compression were carried out. These tests were performed on vertically and horizontally cored specimens with respect to the rock bedding. Fresh specimens (i.e., intact) and specimens soaked for 100 days in LFs and in water were examined. The 100 day period was selected, as it may reasonably represent the construction period where some swelling of the Queenston shale can occur. It was revealed that the strength of MQS substantially decreased after soaking. With greater impact in the vertical direction, both water and bentonite solution caused similar decrease in MQS strength of 23%–70%, while polymer solution caused a smaller decrease of 10%–57%. Accordingly, strength envelopes of MQS were established for vertical and horizontal directions before and after soaking.
Molecular characterization of sugar taste receptors in the cotton bollworm Helicoverpa armigera
Authors: Xu Wei , Liu Naiyong , Liao Yalin , Anderson Alisha
Published: August 2017

Insects utilize sugars as their essential energy and nutrient sources; therefore, the sense of sugar detection plays a critical role in insect behaviours. Previously, using genomic and transcriptomic approaches, we identified eight putative sugar gustatory receptor (GR) genes from the cotton bollworm Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Here, we further validated these annotated sugar receptor genes (HarmGr4–HarmGr8 and HarmGr10–HarmGr12) and found HarmGr10 may be a pseudogene carrying a stop codon in the open reading frame. Sequence alignment revealed H. armigera sugar GR sequences are conserved at C-terminus and phylogenetic analysis showed that insect sugar GRs have evolved in a family-specific manner. Interestingly, all eight H. armigera sugar GRs are localized in a tandem array on the same scaffold of the genome. In silico gene expression and reverse transcription (RT)-PCR analysis showed that HarmGr10 is specifically expressed in male adult testes while HarmGr11 is specifically expressed in female adult ovaries, suggesting H. armigera sugar GRs may be involved in reproduction-related functions. This study improves our knowledge on insect sugar receptors and gustatory systems.
Oxygen defect influenced gas sensing properties of ZnO polyhedral structures
Authors: Mamat Ablet , Qi Yaping , Rozi Anvar , Liu Xiangbo , Huang Weiyi , Wang Tao , Ni Hao , Gao Ju
Published: August 2017

ZnO polyhedral structures were fabricated via a rapid thermal evaporation process. The ZnO nanostructures grown had faceted trumpet-like morphologies. The intensity of visible emission in photoluminescence spectra strongly related to growth temperature, indicating different concentrations of oxygen vacancy. These structures exhibited typical sensing property to gaseous ethanol. The sensing property was related to the oxygen vacancies.
Role of superconducting energy gap in extended BCS-Bose crossover theory
Authors: Chávez I. , García L. A. , de Llano M. , Grether M.
Published: August 2017

The generalized Bose–Einstein condensation (GBEC) theory of superconductivity (SC) is briefly surveyed. It hinges on three distinct new ingredients: (i) Treatment of Cooper pairs (CPs) as actual bosons since they obey Bose statistics, in contrast to BCS pairs which do not obey Bose commutation relations; (ii) inclusion of two-hole Cooper pairs (2hCPs) on an equal footing with two-electron Cooper pairs (2eCPs), thus making this a complete boson–fermion (BF) model; and (iii) inclusion in the resulting ternary ideal BF gas with particular BF vertex interactions that drive boson formation/disintegration processes. GBEC subsumes as special cases both BCS (having its 50–50 symmetry of both kinds of CPs) and ordinary BEC theories (having no 2hCPs), as well as the now familiar BCS-Bose crossover theory. We extended the crossover theory with the explicit inclusion of 2hCPs and construct a phase diagram of [Formula: see text] versus [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are the critical and Fermi temperatures, [Formula: see text] is the total number density and [Formula: see text] that of unbound electrons at [Formula: see text]. Also, with this extended crossover one can construct the energy gap [Formula: see text] versus [Formula: see text] for some elemental SCs by solving at least two equations numerically: a gap-like and a number equation. In 50–50 symmetry, the energy gap curve agrees quite well with experimental data. But ignoring 2hCPs altogether leads to the gap curve falling substantially below that with 50–50 symmetry which already fits the data quite well, showing that 2hCPs are indispensable to describe SCs.
What is strange about high-temperature superconductivity in cuprates?
Authors: Božović I. , He X. , Wu J. , Bollinger A. T.
Published: August 2017

Cuprate superconductors exhibit many features, but the ultimate question is why the critical temperature ([Formula: see text]) is so high. The fundamental dichotomy is between the weak-pairing, Bardeen–Cooper–Schrieffer (BCS) scenario, and Bose–Einstein condensation (BEC) of strongly-bound pairs. While for underdoped cuprates it is hotly debated which of these pictures is appropriate, it is commonly believed that on the overdoped side strongly-correlated fermion physics evolves smoothly into the conventional BCS behavior. Here, we test this dogma by studying the dependence of key superconducting parameters on doping, temperature, and external fields, in thousands of cuprate samples. The findings do not conform to BCS predictions anywhere in the phase diagram.
Strain-induced negative differential resistance in ultrasmall carbon nanotube
Authors: Fang Hui , Zhang Fei-Peng , Ruan Xing-Xiang , Huang Can-Sheng , Jiang Zhi-Nian , Peng Jin-Yun , Wang Ru-Zhi
Published: August 2017

The transport properties in ultrasmall single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) under tensile strain have been theoretically investigated. The regular negative differential resistance (NDR) induced by the strain undergoes a process from enhancement to weakening in the zigzag (3,[Formula: see text]0) SWCNT. The NDR achieves maximum with applying 4% tensile strain. Compared to the case of (3,[Formula: see text]0) SWCNT, that NDR cannot be manipulated by applying strain clearly in (4,[Formula: see text]0) and (5,[Formula: see text]0) ultrasmall SWCNTs with tensile strain lower than 10%. It proposes this strain-induced NDR effect to demonstrate the possibility of finding potential applications in SWCNT-based NDR nanodevices such as in memory devices, oscillators and fast switching devices.
Colored correlated multiplicative and additive Gaussian colored noises-induced transition of a piecewise nonlinear bistable model
Authors: Guo Yong-Feng , Shen Ya-Jun , Xi Bei , Tan Jian-Guo
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we investigate the steady-state properties of a piecewise nonlinear bistable model driven by multiplicative and additive Gaussian colored noises with colored cross-correlation. Using the unified colored noise approximation, we derive the analytical expression of the steady-state probability density (SPD) function. Then the effects of colored correlated Gaussian colored noises on SPD are presented. According to the research results, it is found that there appear some new nonlinear phenomena in this system. The multiplicative colored noise intensity, the additive colored noise intensity and the cross-correlation strength between noises can induce the transition. However, the transition cannot be induced by the auto-correlation time of multiplicative and additive Gaussian colored noises as well as the cross-correlation time between noises.
Average value of the shape and direction factor in the equation of refractive index
Authors: Zhang Tao
Published: August 2017

The theoretical calculation of the refractive indices is of great significance for the developments of new optical materials. The calculation method of refractive index, which was deduced from the electron-cloud-conductor model, contains the shape and direction factor [Formula: see text]. [Formula: see text] affects the electromagnetic-induction energy absorbed by the electron clouds, thereby influencing the refractive indices. It is not yet known how to calculate [Formula: see text] value of non-spherical electron clouds. In this paper, [Formula: see text] value is derived by imaginatively dividing the electron cloud into numerous little volume elements and then regrouping them. This paper proves that [Formula: see text] when molecules’ spatial orientations distribute randomly. The calculations of the refractive indices of several substances validate this equation. This result will help to promote the application of the calculation method of refractive index.
THE IMPACT OF GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION ON TECHNOLOGICAL REGIMES: THE SOURCING OF FINANCIAL INNOVATION
Authors: GIANIODIS PETER T. , THÜRER MATTHIAS
Published: August 2017

Scholars and managers alike seek to better explain disruptive change and its effects on technological regimes. In this study, we apply two logics of change — Schumpeterian and punctuated equilibrium — and conduct a natural experiment to evaluate how a governmental intervention shock affected the sourcing of knowledge within an existing technological regime. In particular, we investigate the extent to which patterns of knowledge sourcing changed within the technological regime governing financial innovation. We find that patterns of knowledge sourcing change subsequent to the government intervention, but in more nuanced ways as predicted by Schumpeterian and punctuated equilibrium logic. Specifically, knowledge sourcing demonstrates an “accelerated” punctuated equilibrium change with knowledge convergence between incumbents and new entrants occurring under high levels of uncertainty, rather than when the regime stabilized. We discuss the implications on Schumpeter’s concept of creative destruction, as disruptive change may only undermine some aspects of an existing technological regime.
UHPLC-PDA Assay for Simultaneous Determination of Vitamin D3and Menaquinone-7 in Pharmaceutical Solid Dosage Formulation
Authors: Jehangir Muhammad , Ahmed Mahmood , Imtiaz Shafiq Muhammad , Samad Abdul , Iftikhar-ul-Haq
Published: August 2017

A newly developed method based on ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) was optimized for the simultaneous determination of vitamin D3and menaquinone-7 (MK-7) in tablet formulation in the present study. UHPLC separation of vitamin D3and MK-7 was performed with ACE Excel 2 C18-PFP column (2 μm, 2.1×100 mm) at 0.6 mL min−1flow rate, whereas the mobile phase consisted of methanol/water (19:1, v/v, phase A) and isopropyl alcohol (99.9%, phase B) containing 0.5% triethylamine. Isocratic separation of both the analytes was performed at 40°C by pumping the mobile phases A and B in the ratio of50:50(v/v, pH, 6.0). Both analytes were detected at a wavelength of 265 nm and the injection volume was 1.0 μL. The overall runtime per sample was 4.5 min with retention time of 1.26 and 3.64 min for vitamin D3and MK-7, respectively. The calibration curve was linear from 5.0 to 100 μg mL−1for vitamin D3and MK-7 with a coefficient of determination (R2)≥0.9981, while repeatability and reproducibility (expressed as relative standard deviation) were lower than 1.46 and 2.21%, respectively. The proposed HPLC method was demonstrated to be simple and rapid for the determination of vitamin D3and MK-7 in tablets.
Theoretical Study on Effect of Defective Connection to Reservoirs in an Atomic-Scale Conductor
Authors: Morifuji Masato
Published: August 2017

We theoretically investigate the effect of a defect at the interface between a conductor and reservoirs in an atomic-scale device. Since fabrication of atomic-scale contacts is a complex task, there could be defects at the interface between the conductor and reservoirs. Such defective contacts will make it difficult to measure currents properly. In this paper, we calculate current-voltage characteristics in two-dimensional devices with a defective connection to reservoirs by using the nonequilibrium Green’s function method. Results show that the magnitude of resistance change depends on the amplitude of quantized wave functions at the position of the defect.
Stability of a Class of Hybrid Neutral Stochastic Differential Equations with Unbounded Delay
Authors: Lu Boliang , Song Ruili
Published: August 2017

This paper studies the stability of hybrid neutral stochastic differential equations with unbounded delay. Some novel exponential stability criteria and boundedness conditions are established based on the generalized Itô formula and Lyapunov functions. The factor e-εδ(t) is used to overcome the difficulties caused by the unbounded delay δ(t) effectively. In particular, our results generalize and improve some previous stability results from bounded delay to unbounded delay conditions. Finally, an example is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed results.
Numerical Investigation of Fluid Flow and Performance Prediction in a Fluid Coupling Using Large Eddy Simulation
Authors: Cai Wei , Li Yuan , Li Xingzhong , Liu Chunbao
Published: August 2017

Large eddy simulation (LES) with various subgrid-scale (SGS) models was introduced to numerically calculate the transient flow of the hydraulic coupling. By using LES, the study aimed to advance description ability of internal flow and performance prediction. The CFD results were verified by experimental data. For the purpose of the description of the flow field, six subgrid-scale models for LES were employed to depict the flow field; the distribution structure of flow field was legible. Moreover, the flow mechanism was analyzed using 3D vortex structures, and those showed that DSL and KET captured abundant vortex structures and provided a relatively moderate eddy viscosity in the chamber. The predicted values of the braking torque for hydraulic coupling were compared with experimental data. The comparison results were compared with several simulation models, such as SAS and RKE, and SSTKW models. Those comparison results showed that the SGS models, especially DSL and KET, were applicable to obtain the more accurate predicted results than SAS and RKE, and SSTKW models. Clearly, the predicted results of LES with DSL and KET were far more accurate than the previous studies. The performance prediction was significantly improved.
Recent Development of Augmented Reality in Surgery: A Review
Authors: Vávra P. , Roman J. , Zonča P. , Ihnát P. , Němec M. , Kumar J. , Habib N. , El-Gendi A.
Published: August 2017

Introduction. The development augmented reality devices allow physicians to incorporate data visualization into diagnostic and treatment procedures to improve work efficiency, safety, and cost and to enhance surgical training. However, the awareness of possibilities of augmented reality is generally low. This review evaluates whether augmented reality can presently improve the results of surgical procedures. Methods. We performed a review of available literature dating from 2010 to November 2016 by searching PubMed and Scopus using the terms “augmented reality” and “surgery.” Results. The initial search yielded 808 studies. After removing duplicates and including only journal articles, a total of 417 studies were identified. By reading of abstracts, 91 relevant studies were chosen to be included. 11 references were gathered by cross-referencing. A total of 102 studies were included in this review. Conclusions. The present literature suggest an increasing interest of surgeons regarding employing augmented reality into surgery leading to improved safety and efficacy of surgical procedures. Many studies showed that the performance of newly devised augmented reality systems is comparable to traditional techniques. However, several problems need to be addressed before augmented reality is implemented into the routine practice.
Chaperone-Based Therapies for Disease Modification in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Friesen Erik L. , De Snoo Mitch L. , Rajendran Luckshi , Kalia Lorraine V. , Kalia Suneil K.
Published: August 2017

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder and is characterized by the presence of pathological intracellular aggregates primarily composed of misfolded α-synuclein. This pathology implicates the molecular machinery responsible for maintaining protein homeostasis (proteostasis), including molecular chaperones, in the pathobiology of the disease. There is mounting evidence from preclinical and clinical studies that various molecular chaperones are downregulated, sequestered, depleted, or dysfunctional in PD. Current therapeutic interventions for PD are inadequate as they fail to modify disease progression by ameliorating the underlying pathology. Modulating the activity of molecular chaperones, cochaperones, and their associated pathways offers a new approach for disease modifying intervention. This review will summarize the potential of chaperone-based therapies that aim to enhance the neuroprotective activity of molecular chaperones or utilize small molecule chaperones to promote proteostasis.
Electrocoagulation-Adsorption to Remove Anionic and Cationic Dyes from Aqueous Solution by PV-Energy
Authors: Castañeda-Díaz J. , Pavón-Silva T. , Gutiérrez-Segura E. , Colín-Cruz A.
Published: August 2017

The cationic dye malachite green (MG) and the anionic dye Remazol yellow (RY) were removed from aqueous solutions using electrocoagulation-adsorption processes. Batch and continuous electrocoagulation procedures were performed and compared. Carbonaceous materials obtained from industrial sewage sludge and commercial activated carbons were used to adsorb dyes from aqueous solutions in column systems with a 96–98% removal efficiency. The continuous electrocoagulation-adsorption system was more efficient for removing dyes than electrocoagulation alone. The thermodynamic parameters suggested the feasibility of the process and indicated that the adsorption was spontaneous and endothermic (ΔS=0.037 and −0.009 for MG and RY, resp.). The ΔG value further indicated that the adsorption process was spontaneous (−6.31 and −10.48; T=303 K). The kinetic electrocoagulation results and fixed-bed adsorption results were adequately described using a first-order model and a Bohart-Adams model, respectively. The adsorption capacities of the batch and column studies differed for each dye, and both adsorbent materials showed a high affinity for the cationic dye. Thus, the results presented in this work indicate that a continuous electrocoagulation-adsorption system can effectively remove this type of pollutant from water. The morphology and elements present in the sludge and adsorbents before and after dye adsorption were characterized using SEM-EDS and FT-IR.
Self-Rated Health as a Predictor of Death after Two Years: The Importance of Physical and Mental Wellbeing Postintensive Care
Authors: Vejen Marie , Bjorner Jakob B. , Bestle Morten H. , Lindhardt Anne , Jensen Jens U.
Published: August 2017

Introduction. The objective of this study is, among half-year intensive care survivors, to determine whether self-assessment of health can predict two-year mortality.Methods. The study is a prospective cohort study based on the Procalcitonin and Survival Study trial. Half-year survivors from this 1200-patient multicenter intensive care trial were sent the SF-36 questionnaire. We used both a simple one-item question and multiple questions summarized as a Physical Component Summary (PCS) and a Mental Component Summary (MCS) score. The responders were followed for vital status 730 days after inclusion. Answers were dichotomized into a low-risk and a high-risk group and hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated by Cox proportional hazard analyses.Conclusion. We found that self-rated health measured by a single question was a strong independent predictor of two-year all-cause mortality (HR: 1.8; 95% CI: 1.1–3.0). The multi-item component scores of the SF-36 also predicted two-year mortality (PCS: HR: 2.9; 95% CI 1.7–5.0) (MCS: HR: 1.9; 95% CI 1.1–3.4). These results suggest that self-rated health questions could help in identifying patients at excess risk. Randomized controlled trials are needed to test whether our findings represent causality.
Addition of Wollastonite Fibers to Calcium Phosphate Cement Increases Cell Viability and Stimulates Differentiation of Osteoblast-Like Cells
Authors: Domingues Juliana Almeida , Motisuke Mariana , Bertran Celso Aparecido , Hausen Moema A. , Duek Eliana Aparecida de Rezende , Camilli José Angelo
Published: August 2017

Calcium phosphate cement (CPC) that is based on α-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) is considered desirable for bone tissue engineering because of its relatively rapid degradation properties. However, such cement is relatively weak, restricting its use to areas of low mechanical stress. Wollastonite fibers (WF) have been used to improve the mechanical strength of biomaterials. However, the biological properties of WF remain poorly understood. Here, we tested the response of osteoblast-like cells to being cultured on CPC reinforced with 5% of WF (CPC-WF). We found that both types of cement studied achieved an ion balance for calcium and phosphate after 3 days of immersion in culture medium and this allowed subsequent long-term cell culture. CPC-WF increased cell viability and stimulated cell differentiation, compared to nonreinforced CPC. We hypothesize that late silicon release by CPC-WF induces increased cell proliferation and differentiation. Based on our findings, we propose that CPC-WF is a promising material for bone tissue engineering applications.
Medicinal Plants for the Treatment of Local Tissue Damage Induced by Snake Venoms: An Overview from Traditional Use to Pharmacological Evidence
Authors: Félix-Silva Juliana , Silva-Junior Arnóbio Antônio , Zucolotto Silvana Maria , Fernandes-Pedrosa Matheus de Freitas
Published: August 2017

Snakebites are a serious problem in public health due to their high morbimortality. Most of snake venoms produce intense local tissue damage, which could lead to temporary or permanent disability in victims. The available specific treatment is the antivenom serum therapy, whose effectiveness is reduced against these effects. Thus, the search for complementary alternatives for snakebite treatment is relevant. There are several reports of the popular use of medicinal plants against snakebites worldwide. In recent years, many studies have been published giving pharmacological evidence of benefits of several vegetal species against local effects induced by a broad range of snake venoms, including inhibitory potential against hyaluronidase, phospholipase, proteolytic, hemorrhagic, myotoxic, and edematogenic activities. In this context, this review aimed to provide an updated overview of medicinal plants used popularly as antiophidic agents and discuss the main species with pharmacological studies supporting the uses, with emphasis on plants inhibiting local effects of snake envenomation. The present review provides an updated scenario and insights into future research aiming at validation of medicinal plants as antiophidic agents and strengthens the potentiality of ethnopharmacology as a tool for design of potent inhibitors and/or development of herbal medicines against venom toxins, especially local tissue damage.
T Cell Histiocyte Rich Large B Cell Lymphoma Presenting as Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis: An Uncommon Presentation of a Rare Disease
Authors: Ibrahim Uroosa , Garcia Gwenalyn , Saqib Amina , Hussein Shafinaz , Dai Qun
Published: August 2017

T cell histiocyte rich large B cell lymphoma (THRLBCL) is a rare subtype of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma characterized by malignant B cells with reactive T lymphocytes. The pathophysiology is thought to involve cytokine-mediated evasion of T cell immune response by malignant B cells. It usually presents at an advanced stage with extranodal involvement. An extremely unusual manifestation of the disease is hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) which is a hyperinflammatory disorder. We present a case of a 43-year-old male who presented with recurrent fever and recent radiologic imaging showing splenomegaly and right inguinal lymphadenopathy. On presentation, he had a fever of 105°F. Laboratory work-up was consistent with pancytopenia, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, elevated D-dimer, and a ferritin of 24,247 ng/mL. The patient was started on steroid therapy. An excisional biopsy of the right inguinal lymph node was consistent with a diagnosis of THRLBCL and the patient subsequently received six cycles of chemotherapy with R-CHOP (Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine, and Prednisone) after which a PET-CT scan showed no evidence of biologically active disease and ferritin was down to 822 ng/mL. We discuss the clinical manifestations and diagnostic and therapeutic considerations of this rare disease along with a review of reported cases in the literature.
Investigation of Parametric Instability of the Planetary Gear under Speed Fluctuations
Authors: Qiu Xinghui , Han Qinkai , Chu Fulei
Published: August 2017

Planetary gear is widely used in engineering and usually has symmetrical structure. As the number of teeth in contact changes during rotation, the time-varying mesh stiffness parametrically excites the planetary gear and may cause severe vibrations and instabilities. Taking speed fluctuations into account, the time-varying mesh stiffness is frequency modulated, and therefore sideband instabilities may arise and original instabilities are significantly affected. Considering two different speed fluctuations, original and sideband instabilities are numerically and analytically investigated. A rotational lumped-parameter model of the planetary gear is developed, in which the time-varying mesh stiffness, input speed fluctuations, and damping are considered. Closed-form approximations of instability boundaries for primary and combination instabilities are obtained by perturbation analysis and verified by numerical analysis. The effects of speed fluctuations and damping on parametric instability are systematically examined. Because of the frequency modulation, whether a parametric instability occurs cannot be simply predicted by the planet meshing phase which is applicable to constant speed. Besides adjusting the planet meshing phase, speed fluctuation supplies a new thought to minimize certain instability by adjusting the amplitude or frequency of the speed fluctuation. Both original and sideband instabilities are shrunken by damping, and speed fluctuation further shrinks the original instability.
Synthesis of Poly-(R-hydroxyalkanoates) byCupriavidus necatorATCC 17699 Using Mexican Avocado(Persea americana)Oil as a Carbon Source
Authors: Flores-Sánchez Araceli , López-Cuellar Ma. del Rocío , Pérez-Guevara Fermín , Figueroa López Ulises , Martín-Bufájer José Mauricio , Vergara-Porras Berenice
Published: August 2017

Poly-R-hydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are polymers produced by a vast number of bacterial species under stress conditions. PHAs exhibit different thermal and mechanical properties that depend on their molecular structure. In this work, PHAs were produced using avocado oil as the carbon source.Cupriavidus necatorH16 was cultured in three-stage fermentation using fructose during the cell growth stages and avocado oil during the PHA synthesis stage. Different concentrations of avocado oil were used during the third stage to test the incorporation of various monomeric units into the PHAs. Biomass and PHA production were measured during the fermentation. DSC, FTIR, and gas chromatography analysis aided the PHA characterization. Different proportions of 3-hydroxyvalerate were present in the 3-hydroxybutyrate main chain depending on the concentration of avocado oil. The results suggest that avocado oil is a viable new substrate for PHA production.
Foot Structure in Boys with Down Syndrome
Authors: Puszczałowska-Lizis Ewa , Nowak Krzysztof , Omorczyk Jarosław , Ambroży Tadeusz , Bujas Przemysław , Nosiadek Leszek
Published: August 2017

Introduction and Aim. Down syndrome (DS) is associated with numerous developmental abnormalities, some of which cause dysfunctions of the posture and the locomotor system. The analysis of selected features of the foot structure in boys with DS versus their peers without developmental disorders is done.Materials and Methods. The podoscopic examination was performed on 30 boys with DS aged 14-15 years. A control group consisted of 30 age- and gender-matched peers without DS.Results. The feet of boys with DS are flatter compared to their healthy peers. The hallux valgus angle is not the most important feature differentiating the shape of the foot in the boys with DS and their healthy peers. In terms of the V toe setting, healthy boys had poorer results.Conclusions. Specialized therapeutic treatment in individuals with DS should involve exercises to increase the muscle strength around the foot joints, enhancing the stabilization in the joints and proprioception. Introducing orthotics and proper footwear is also important. It is also necessary to monitor the state of the foot in order to modify undertaken therapies.