bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal Stability of Oilfield Aminopolycarboxylic Acids/Salts
Authors: Sokhanvarian K.. , Nasr-El-Din H. A. , de Wolf C. A.
Published: September 2015

Chelating agents are used to remove various inorganic scales, including sulfates and carbonates. They are also used as standalone stimulation fluids and as iron-control agents during acidizing treatments. The main chelating agents used in the oil field include ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA), N-(hydroxyethyl)-ethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEDTA), and glutamic acid diacetic acid (GLDA). (Note that the abbreviations for these chelating agents will be used throughout the rest of the paper.) One of the concerns with these chelants is their thermal stability at elevated temperatures.

Chelant solutions (0.7 to 0.8 M) of HEDTA, GLDA, NTA, EDTA, and their mono-/disalts were prepared. The aqueous solutions of these chelants were heated at various temperatures (300 to 400°F) and times (2 to 12 hours). The concentration of chelant was measured with a titration method that uses FeCl3 solutions. The products of thermal decomposition of chelants were determined with mass spectrometry (MS) and gas-chromatography/MS techniques.

Most chelants decomposed at temperatures greater than 350°F. At 400°F and after 12 hours of heating, diammonium salt of GLDA degraded more quickly than diammonium salt of EDTA chelant. Analyses of NH4H3GLDA with MS techniques after heating highlighted that the decomposition products included iminodiacetic acid, hydroxyacetic acid, and α-hydroxyglutaric acid. Studying the kinetics of aqueous solutions of NaH3GLDA, NaH2HEDTA, and (NH4)2H2EDTA showed that their thermal-degradation kinetics followed a pseudofirst-order reaction. The Arrhenius equation can be used to predict the activation energy that is necessary for the degradation mechanisms of chelants.
Proteins causing membrane fouling in membrane bioreactors
Authors: Miyoshi Taro , Nagai Yuhei , Aizawa Tomoyasu , Kimura Katsuki , Watanabe Yoshimasa
Published: September 2015

In this study, the details of proteins causing membrane fouling in membrane bioreactors (MBRs) treating real municipal wastewater were investigated. Two separate pilot-scale MBRs were continuously operated under significantly different operating conditions; one MBR was a submerged type whereas the other was a side-stream type. The submerged and side-stream MBRs were operated for 20 and 10 days, respectively. At the end of continuous operation, the foulants were extracted from the fouled membranes. The proteins contained in the extracted foulants were enriched by using the combination of crude concentration with an ultrafiltration membrane and trichloroacetic acid precipitation, and then separated by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2D-PAGE). The N-terminal amino acid sequencing analysis of the proteins which formed intensive spots on the 2D-PAGE gels allowed us to partially identify one protein (OmpA family protein originated from genus Brevundimonas or Riemerella anatipestifer) from the foulant obtained from the submerged MBR, and two proteins (OprD and OprF originated from genus Pseudomonas) from that obtained from the side-stream MBR. Despite the significant difference in operating conditions of the two MBRs, all proteins identified in this study belong to β-barrel protein. These findings strongly suggest the importance of β-barrel proteins in developing membrane fouling in MBRs.
Jenkins model based ferrofluid lubrication of a curved rough annular squeeze film: Effect of slip velocity
Authors: Patel Jimit , Deheri G.M.
Published: September 2015

This paper analyzes the combined effect of slip velocity and transverse
roughness on the performance of a Jenkins model based ferrofluid lubrication
of a squeeze film in curved rough annular plates. The slip model of Beavers
and Joseph has been invoked to evaluate the effect of slip velocity. In order
to find the effect of surface roughness the stochastic averaging model of
Christensen and Tonder has been used. The pressure distribution is obtained
by solving the concerned stochastically averaged Reynolds type equation. The
load carrying capacity is calculated. The graphical representations of the
results indicate that the effect of transverse surface roughness is adverse
in general, however, the situation is relatively better in the case of
negatively skewed roughness. Further, Jenkins model based ferrofluid
lubrication offers some measures in reducing the adverse effect of roughness
when slip parameter is kept at reduced level with a suitable ratio of
curvature parameters. Lastly, the positive effect of magnetization gets a
boost due to the combined effect of variance (-ve) and negatively skewed
roughness suitably choosing the aspect ratio.
Teaching Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder With Restricted Interests
Authors: Gunn Kerry C. M. , Delafield-Butt Jonathan T.
Published: September 2015

Inclusive education requires teachers to adapt to children’s learning styles. Children with autism spectrum disorder bring challenges to classroom teaching, often exhibiting interests restricted to particular topics. Teachers can be faced with a dilemma either to accommodate these restricted interests (RIs) into teaching or to keep them out of the classroom altogether. In this article, we examined all peer-reviewed studies of teaching children with autism spectrum disorder with RIs published between 1990 and 2014. We find that positive gains in learning and social skills can be achieved by incorporating children’s RIs into classroom practice: Of 20 published studies that examined 91 children, all reported gains in educational attainment and/or social engagement. Negative consequences were limited to a decrease in task performance in one child and a transient increase in perseverative behaviors in two children. The evidence supports the inclusion of RIs into classroom practice. Methods of inclusion of RIs are discussed in light of practical difficulties and ideal outcomes.
A new technique of bone cement augmentation via the disc space for percutaneous pedicle screw fixation
Authors: Park Chang Kyu , Park Choon Keun , Lee Dong Chan , Lee Dong Geun
Published: September 2015

OBJECT

In elderly patients with severe osteoporosis, instrumented lumbar interbody fusion may result in fixation failure or nonunion because of decreased pedicle screw pullout strength or increased interbody graft subsidence risk. Thus, given its many advantages, percutaneous pedicle screw fixation with cement augmentation can be an effective method to use in elderly patients. The authors report on an easy, safe, and economical technique for bone cement augmentation using a bone biopsy needle inserted into the disc space in 2 osteoporotic patients who were treated with posterior interbody fusion and percutaneous pedicle screw fixation.

METHODS

Two elderly patients who complained of back pain and intermittent neurological claudication underwent posterior interbody fusion with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation. After routinely assembling rods on the screws, a bone biopsy needle was inserted into the disc space via the operative field; the needle was then placed around the tips of the screws using fluoroscopic radiography for guidance. Bone cement was injected through the bone biopsy needle, also under fluoroscopic radiography guidance.

RESULTS

Both patients’ symptoms improved after the operation, and there was no evidence of cage subsidence or screw loosening at the 4-month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The indirect technique of bone cement augmentation via the disc space for percutaneous screw fixation could be an easy, safe, and economical method.
One Thousand Good Things in Nature: Aspects of Nearby Nature Associated with Improved Connection to Nature
Authors: Richardson Miles , Hallam Jenny , Lumber Ryan
Published: September 2015

As our interactions with nature occur increasingly within urban landscapes, there is a need to consider how ‘mundane nature’ can be valued as a route for people to connect to nature. The content of a three good things in nature intervention, written by 65 participants each day for five days is analysed. Content analysis produced themes related to sensations, temporal change, active wildlife, beauty, weather, colour, good feelings and specific aspects of nature. The themes describe the everyday good things in nature, providing direction for those seeking to frame engaging conservation messages, plan urban spaces and connect people with nearby nature.
THE ROLES OF WITHDRAWAL IN THE NEGOTIATOR PERSONALITY-TACTIC RELATIONSHIP
Authors: Chow Pui Ting , Cheung Sai On , Young Chiu Yan , Wah Chi Kit
Published: September 2015

The personality of a negotiator shall affect his choice of tactics. Moreover, mixed predictions of the personality-tactic relationship have been derived from prior studies. One possible explanation is the influence of other intervening factors. In this regard, this study examines the role of withdrawal, as an intervening variable, in the negotiator personality-tactic relationship. State of withdrawal refers to the level of interest to continue with a negotiation. In a state of complete withdrawal, the interest to continue no longer exists and breakdown of the negotiation is inevitable. With the participation of practicing professionals, an experiment was used to collect data for the study. It was found that competitors are prone to withdraw and use more distributive tactics. However, this pattern changes with the composition of the dyad. If the negotiating counterpart is a cooperator, a competitor will adopt a more integrative approach. This finding reminds the importance of the personality factor in selecting members of a negotiating team.
Les usages de drogues dans les marges du travail : le cas de sans-abri lillois
Authors: Schlegel Vianney
Published: September 2015

Notre travail s’intéresse aux personnes vivant en situation de grande précarité dans les rues de Lille. L’article montre les liens entre leurs consommations de substances psychoactives (SPA) et leurs activités rémunératrices. L’achat de doses d’héroïne constitue une dépense considérable pour des individus qui multiplient les carences sociales (logement, emploi, santé, famille, etc.). C’est en recourant à la mendicité et à diverses combines qu’ils parviennent à financer leur vie quotidienne et leurs consommations de drogues. La vente ou la revente de drogues et de médicaments psychotropes constitue aussi une solution. En contribuant à éclairer les relations d’influences multiples entre usages de drogues et recherche d’argent, cette étude montre que les activités de ces personnes aux « marges du travail » s’insèrent dans une économie globale et que ces diverses activités contribuent à assurer leurs propres consommations de drogues et, plus indirectement, celles d’usagers insérés.
Simulation of Manufacturing Processes via Virtual Reality
Authors: Abidi Mohamed-Amine , Lyonnet Barbara , Chevaillier Pierre , Toscano Rosario , Baert Patrick
Published: September 2015

In a world in continuous evolution, the different industrial actors need to be reactive to remain competitive and to conquer new market trends. To achieve this, they are constrained to improve their way of industrial management, both at the strategic level, to adapt to technological advances and follow market trends. In this chapter, we introduce a new simulation method that makes it easy to understand the results of a given simulation. This is of crucial importance because the design stage of a manufacturing system usually implies not specialist actors. The objective of the chapter is to present the main advantages of using the virtual reality (VR) to the manufacturing processes simulation. To this end, a state of the art will compose the first part of the chapter. In the second part, we address the issue of the contribution of the VR to the industrial simulation.
Strategic Role of Information and Information Technology in Shop Floor Control in Footwear Industry Sector
Authors: Mazini Sergio Ricardo
Published: September 2015

This chapter presents an approach to the strategic role of information and information technology in the shop floor control in footwear industry sector, pointing and tracking through the various stages of the production process. Discusses the importance of industries perform monitoring of production processes, with the goal of identifying information needs, actions and solutions that will contribute to the improvement and efficiency of the production process. The chapter also discusses the contribution of information technology to the information systems of companies, through the resources and solutions available today, such as Enterprise Resource Planning - ERP, Manufacturing Resource Planning - MRP and Shop Floor Control - SFC. The research method is the case study conducted in firm located in an industrial Brazilian footwear. This study examines the use of a solution called GradeSFC tracking and pointing of the production process.
Clustering Students for Group-Based Learning in Foreign Language Learning
Authors: Li Li , Luo Xiangfeng , Chen Haiyan
Published: September 2015

Big data make it possible to mine learning information for insights regarding student performance in foreign language learning (FLL). Group-based learning is a usual method to improve FLL, whose effectiveness is greatly influenced by student groups. The general grouping method is to divide students into groups by their teacher manually, which is not timely or accurate. To overcome the shortcomings of manual methods, this paper proposes an automatic grouping method based on clustering technologies. First, the student profile is built to model the student's knowledge level, which can be updated based on the results of examinations automatically. Then, to meet the different teaching goals, two student clustering methods are proposed: similarity student clustering and complementation student clustering. At last, the proposed methods are evaluated by comparing the students of clustered groups with those of the manual groups in the learning effectiveness. The experimental results show that the proposed methods are flexible, comprehensive, and timely compared with manual group methods.
Sustainability of Strategic Information Systems in Emergent vs. Prescriptive Strategic Management
Authors: Hosseinian-Far Amin , Chang Victor
Published: September 2015

Since the introduction of the ‘Strategic Information Systems' (SIS) concept by Wiseman in 1985, there have been numerous efforts in incorporation of such systems by businesses for the very main reason of gaining competitive advantage. Considering the broad categorization of Strategic Management into emergent and prescriptive types, integration of SIS into business processes seems to be dissimilar in these two categories. This paper initially outlines the phases in the two types of strategic management approaches. It then intends to produce a framework for integration of SIS in each of the two methods. Lastly, the sustainability of SIS in emergent and prescriptive strategic management is compared. Our points of views on the Modern SIS have been presented.
Can Travel and Trade Affect the Global Epidemiology of Rabies?
Authors: Kumar K. Gokul , Chatterjee Anirban
Published: September 2015

Rabies is an acute, progressive, universally fatal encephalitis, caused by a zoonotic Lyssavirus belonging to the family Rhabdoviridae. Although an infectious disease, traditionally, it has not been considered to be spread through international trade and travel owing to the absence of human-to-human transmission. However, cross-border animal migration, animal trade, and travel to areas endemic for rabies pose a chance of emergence of travel-associated rabies as a public health threat. Additionally, the fact that the developed world has eradicated canine variant of the rabies virus impresses the imperative that adequate surveillance is maintained to prevent re-entry and re-establishment of the virus. The current review looks at evidence around outbreaks of travel-associated rabies and examines the various levels at which travel-associated rabies poses a threat and proposes policy recommendations which could be adopted in a local setting to combat the emerging public health challenge.
Deterioration of Local Mechanical Properties of HVOF-Sprayed Stellite 6 after Exposure to High-Temperature Corrosion
Authors: Česánek Zdeněk , Schubert Jan , Houdková Šárka , Bláhová Olga , Prantnerová Michaela
Published: September 2015

Coating properties determine its behavior in operation. The simulation of future operational conditions is therefore the best quality test. The evaluation during operation is usually not possible to perform, and the coatings are therefore frequently characterized by their physical or mechanical properties. This text deals with the high temperature corrosion of HVOF sprayed Stellite 6 coating and with changes of its local mechanical properties before and after the corrosion testing. High temperature corrosion is defined as a corrosion in the presence of molten salts. In this case, the mixture of salts in composition of 59% Na2(SO)4 with 34.5% KCl and 6.5% NaCl was used. Two exposure temperatures 525 °C and 575 °C were selected and the tests for both temperatures were performed in the time interval of 168h in the autoclave. The coating with salt mixture layer was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and nanoindentation. The high temperature resistance of Stellite 6 coating was evaluated according to the changes in the coating surface and by the occurrence of individual phases formed on the coating surface during the test. Generally, it can be said that the Stellite 6 alloys deposited by HVOF technology show selective oxidation under the salt film. This fact was also proved in this study. Furthermore, the nanoindentation measurements of Stellite 6 coating were performed before and after the corrosion testing. These measurements were used to evaluate the change of local mechanical coating properties.
The Effect of Graded Structure of Sintered Iron-Manganese Biomaterials on the Range and Distribution of Local Hardness Values
Authors: Kupková Miriam , Hrubovčáková Monika , Kupka Martin , Zeleňák Adam
Published: September 2015

Powders comprised of Fe particles and 25, 30, 35wt.% of Mn particles were mixed, compacted and sintered to investigate the effect of Mn on the properties of sintered Fe-Mn alloys. It was found that the sample’s swelling, microstructure and distribution of local hardness values were strongly affected by the Mn content. The particles in Fe-25Mn and Fe-30Mn samples exhibited a distinct onion-like structure causing a considerable variability in local properties, while the particles in Fe-35Mn samples were at a glance more homogeneous, with a large volume fraction occupied by a nearly uniform material with almost constant properties.
Estimation of Local Plastic Deformation in Cutting Zone during Turning
Authors: Martinkovič Maroš , Pokorný Peter
Published: September 2015

Local plastic deformation in cutting zone during turning is affected by technological conditions of the processes. Therefore it is needful to know detail structure changes of plastic deformed material during machining. It is localised, asymmetric deformation which operates at very large strains and exceptionally high strain rates. Three areas of intensive local plastic deformation in cutting zone were observed: the primary area of plastic deformation in shear plane, the secondary area of plastic deformation caused by friction of chip to tool face and the tertiary area of plastic deformation caused by friction of tool to machined surface. Local strain in these three areas was estimated by measurement of deformation of grains on metallographic cut. The effect of grains boundaries self-orientation caused by grains deformation was evaluated using stereology. But the orientation is not the same as deformation and so a correlation between the grain deformation and grain orientation was used. The turning piece was made of CK45 (1.0503) carbon steel. The specimen of cutting zone was obtained by using internal stress method.
Hardness/Microhardness Properties of HDPE Blends
Authors: Navratil Jan , Manas Miroslav , Stanek Michal , Manas David , Bednarik Martin , Mizera Ales
Published: September 2015

This paper deals with utilization of recycled irradiated high-density polyethylene (rHDPEx) as a filler which was blended with non-modified high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Two blends were tested regarding the original state of the mixing components – HDPE granules/rHDPExgrit and HDPE granules/rHDPExpowder. Results show that the increasing amount of the rHDPEx, regardless its form, results in worsening both observed parameters – hardness and micro-indentation hardness.
Micro-Indentation Test and Morphology of Electron Beam Irradiated HDPE
Authors: Ovsik Martin , Kratky Petr , Manas David , Manas Miroslav , Stanek Michal , Chvatalova Lenka , Senkerik Vojtech
Published: September 2015

Cross-linking is a process in which polymer chains are associated through chemical bonds. The cross-linking level can be adjusted by the irradiation dosage and often by means of a cross-linking booster. The polymer additional cross-linking influences the surface nanoand micro layers in the way comparable to metals during the thermal and chemical-thermal treatments. The aim of this paper is to study the effect of ionizing radiation with different doses (33, 66 and 99 kGy), on micro-mechanical properties of polyethylene (HDPE) and compare these results with those of non-irradiated samples. Influence of the cross-linking by β – radiation of the tested HDPE on micro-indentation test and morphology was investigated. Micro-mechanical properties increased with increasing value of the dose of irradiation material. The changes were examined and confirmed by X-ray diffraction.
Nanoindentation in Metallic Glasses with Different Plasticity
Authors: Csach Kornel , Miškuf Jozef , Juríková Alena , Hurakova Maria , Ocelík Václav , de Hosson Jeff T.M.
Published: September 2015

Nanoindentation and thermomechanical experiments on three types of metallic glasses with different glass forming ability were carried out. The nanoindentation behaviour at room temperature was associated with the creep at elevated temperatures. Different discontinuity populations and their shape observed on the nanoindentation loading curves were compared with morphology of plastic deformed indent regions. The influence of the differences in thermal stability of studied alloys on the nanoindentation in these alloys were studied as well.
Correlation between Hardness and Fatigue Properties
Authors: Zubko Pavol , Pešek Ladislav
Published: September 2015

The contribution deals with estimation of tensile properties and fatigue behavior based on hardness measurement. First of all the database of tensile and fatigue properties vs. hardness data was created for a group of steels, from literature survey and performed experiments. Tensile strength, yield strength, ductility and parameters of Ludwig-Hollomon equation in static and cyclic loading were extracted and fitted in relation to the hardness HB. The experimental materials were API 5 L grade steels – X60 and X70 after different deformation exposition. Measured tensile curve (SC) and cyclic deformation curve (CDC) were compared with predicted curves. Hardness was measured in-situ during cyclic loading. The maximum possible hardness values were experimentally determined. The results give a good agreement between estimated and measured data of both static tensile test and fatigue properties.
Determination of Mechanical Properties of Non-Conventional Reinforcement
Authors: Bittner Tomáš , Bouška Petr , Kostelecká Michaela , Nenadálová Šárka , Rydval Milan , Vokáč Miroslav
Published: September 2015

Mechanical tests of samples of basalt and textile glass reinforcement were performed within the solution of the research project GAČR 13-12676S and SGS14/171/OHK1/2T/31. These tests were carried out because of the need to establish elementary mechanical quantities that are tensile strength and modulus of elasticity of non-conventional reinforcement. Both of these quantities are required for further modeling of structures and for designing of the elements made from textile reinforced concrete (TRC) as not being provided by reinforcement manufacturers. The tests were carried out on a total of 12 samples of reinforcement where the first 6 samples were made from textile glass reinforcement (AR-G = Alkali-Resistant Glass) and the remaining 6 samples were prepared from basalt reinforcement. The filament sheaf fibers called roving was used for the production of test specimens.
Influence of Plasma Treatment on the Surface Properties and Strength of Bonded Joints at Selected Polyolefins
Authors: Bednarik Martin , Manas David , Manas Miroslav , Navratil Jan , Mizera Ales , Ovsik Martin
Published: September 2015

Bonding has experienced an enormous expansion in the various applications during the last few years in the field of material joining, due to which it is classified as a new joining technology, although it is, in fact, very old. Compared with the conventional joining methods (riveting, screwing and welding), bonding provides a new material combination possibilities and it allows us to obtain special shapes and properties, which can not be formed by conventional methods. To create a high-quality bonded joint, it is important to wet the bonded surface very well wetted by a wetting liquid. The wettability of the material is characterized by a contact angle of wetting, by which the surface energy is subsequently determined. For a high quality of the joint, the bonded material must have higher surface energy than the witting liquid (adhesive) [1-3]. This paper describes the effect of plasma surface treatment on the surface properties (surface energy, microhardness) of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and also on the final strength of bonded joints. The measured results indicate, that plasma surface treatment is very effective tool for improvement of surface properties and strength of bonded joints of HDPE and LDPE. The strength of bonded joints after plasma surface treatment was increased up to 350 % compared to untreated material. A similar trend was observed even for surface energy and microhardness of materials.
Mechanical Properties Determination of Unknown and 10Ch2MFA Steel Based on Non-Destructive Instrumented Hardness Test
Authors: Stodola Martin , Hadraba Hynek
Published: September 2015

The aim of the paper is to present developed methodology for evaluation of mechanical properties using nondestructive (NDT) methods. The final methodology will focus on evaluating the mechanical properties of the heterogeneous weld structure. The mechanical properties are determined by conducting NDT instrumented Vickers hardness test. The developed methodology for the basic mechanical properties determining is based on the inverse FEM modeling of instrumented hardness test and the indentation curve and the measured surface imprint are the output of indentation. The outputs from the experimental hardness test (the corresponding values from indentation curve and measured surface) are not always corresponding. These differences affect the accuracy of the developed methodology, because it is achieved of the basic material mechanical properties by comparing the outputs of the experimental instrumented hardness test and modeled hardness test using FEM.
Contesting history and identity formation in Paul and in South Africa
Authors: Dube Zorodzai
Published: September 2015

This study compares dynamics in the contestation of history and identity between Paul to post-1994 white Afrikaners in South Africa. In reference to Paul, I am interested in how the followers of the nascent Hellenistic Gentile Christian movement claimed legitimacy as the true Jews, usurping the monopoly of the identity ‘true Jews’ from the Jews, who believed that they alone, stand to claim the Abrahamic promise. Instead, Paul contested the Jewish history and identity, claiming that his Gentile Christians were, in fact, the true Jews – how so? The analysis shall be juxtaposed, providing a discursive analysis to the Afrikaners, who regularly receive claims that they do not belong to South Africa. Specifically, I look into how they contest the South African oral history, claiming that in fact, they are legitimate and the original inhabitants. The study notes that in both cases, identity is constructed through the contestation of history and identity. Thus, the comparison shall be narrowed down to how history is variably, contested for identity formation. Though living within the same locale, the different social groups interpret history differently and variously, appeal to different conspicuous figures and events as their identity markers.
Variations of origin of coronary artery and their importance
Authors: D'Souza M. , Ray B. , Saxena A. , Rastogi P. , D'Souza A. , Gupta C. , Muralimanju B. , Shetty P. , Kumar V. , Kumar N.
Published: September 2015

Introduction: Incidence of anomalous coronary arteries is rare and has been recognized as the causative factor for myocardial ischemia and sudden death. Knowledge about the variations of coronary arterial origin and its course provide a valuable guide to Cardiothoracic Surgeons and Physicians and be useful for producing devices appropriate for variant anatomical structures. The aim of the study was to investigate the number and position of the coronary ostia, emphasizing their possible clinical implications. Methods: Fifty one formalin fixed adult heart specimens were dissected to conduct a morphometric study on coronary ostia and establish their relation with respective aortic sinuses. In addition, branching pattern of the right coronary artery and its dominance were documented. Results: Variations in number and position of ostia in both sinuses were noted. Of the 96 ostia analyzed in the present study, 64.5% were located below the intercommissural line, 11.4% above it and 18.7% at its level. Mean diameter of right and left ostia was measured as 3.03mm and 2.9mm respectively. Mean distance of right and left ostia from their respective sinuses was found to be 15.14mm and 14.20mm respectively. Conclusion: Knowledge of normal and variant anatomy of coronary circulation is a vital component in diagnoses of congenital and acquired cardiac diseases. This study will provide additional information about variations of coronary artery to clinicians and manufacturers to plan their approach for safer and successful treatment.
Possible effects of the Agaricus brasiliensis extract on the cardiac morphology in mice
Authors: Lessna E. , Bruning L. , Bolina C. , Lima D. , Watanabe I. , Ciena A.
Published: September 2015

Introduction: Mushroom extracts are used, mainly due to immunomodulatory and antitumor proprierties. Among the general and species is the Agaricus brasiliensis or SunMushroom. However herbal remedies can cause changes in morphology and functionality of various organs. Therefore, these reporters need to be analyzed for applicability of this compound. The aim of the present study was to analyze the structural characteristics of the heart of Swiss mice employing light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy methods. Materials and methods: Swiss mice were used, divided into 2 groups: Control (n=6) and Agaricus brasiliensis (n=6), and the second group treated with the extract daily. After 60 days, under anesthesia withdrew from the samples, which were submitted to histological routine for obtaining serial sections. Results: Microscopic analysis revealed the aspects of the heart of Swiss mice: The formation of layers (epicardium, myocardium and endocardium) with partial view of the papillary muscles. Using the technique of Picro-Sirius: In yellow, the muscle fibers; in red, collagen fibers. Under polarized light, show the types of collagen fibers in red and green, significant collagen type I and III respectively. Conclusion: The arrangement of muscle fibers and collagen did not vary between the two groups.
Climate, CO2, and demographic impacts on global wildfire emissions
Authors: Knorr W. , Jiang L. , Arneth A.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Wildfires are by far the largest contributor to global biomass burning and constitute a large global source of atmospheric traces gases and aerosols. Such emissions have a considerable impact on air quality and constitute a major health hazard. Biomass burning also influences the radiative balance of the atmosphere and is thus not only of societal, but also of significant scientific interest. There is a common perception that climate change will lead to an increase in emissions as hot and dry weather events that promote wildfire will become more common. However, even though a few studies have found that the inclusion of CO2 fertilization of photosynthesis and changes in human population patterns will tend to somewhat lower predictions of future wildfire emissions, no such study has included full ensemble ranges of both climate predictions and population projections, including the effect of different degrees of urbanisation. Here, we present a series of 124 simulations with the LPJ-GUESS-SIMFIRE global dynamic vegetation – wildfire model, including a semi-empirical formulation for the prediction of burned area based on fire weather, fuel continuity and human population density. The simulations comprise Climate Model Intercomparison Project 5 (CMIP5) climate predictions from eight Earth system models using two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) and five scenarios of future human population density based on the series of Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs), sensitivity tests for the effect of climate and CO2, as well as a sensitivity analysis using two alternative parameterisations of the semi-empirical burned-area model. Contrary to previous work, we find no clear future trend of global wildfire emissions for the moderate emissions and climate change scenario based on the RCP 4.5. Only historical population change introduces a decline by around 15 % since 1900. Future emissions could either increase for low population growth and fast urbanisation, or continue to decline for high population growth and slow urbanisation. Only for high future climate change (RCP8.5), wildfire emissions start to rise again after ca. 2020 but are unlikely to reach the levels of 1900 by the end of the 21st century. We find that climate warming will generally increase the risk of fire, but that this is only one of several equally important factors driving future levels of wildfire emissions, which include population change, CO2 fertilisation causing woody thickening, increased productivity and fuel load, and faster litter turnover in a warmer climate.
Creatividad, complejidad y formación: un enfoque transdisciplinar
Authors: Cabrera Cuevas Jessica , De la Herrán Gascón Agustín
Published: September 2015

La presente investigación se desarrolló en el contexto de la formación universitaria. Se centra en las aplicaciones de la creatividad desde una visión transdisciplinar y de complejidad evolutiva. Una de las intenciones del estudio es explorar el fenómeno de la creatividad desde la complejidad en la práctica docente, con el fin de obtener una aproximación general al modo en que se comprende y aplica por expertos que la investigan y enseñan. El objetivo específico se refiere a identificar las tendencias en la aplicación didáctica de la creatividad en el contexto de la enseñanza universitaria. La metodología utilizada se basó en la complementariedad paradigmática (Hashimoto, 2013), con entrevistas en profundidad y encuesta a docentes-investigadores de creatividad de 14 países. Los instrumentos y técnicas utilizadas han sido registros de observación, cuestionario validado, notas de campo, soporte para registro en audio, validación de instrumentos y triangulación. Los resultados más destacados del objetivo de la investigación llevan a concluir, según las tendencias más recientes en epistemología de la creatividad, con que la transdisciplinariedad y el enfoque de complejidad evolutiva son potentes referentes metodológicos y prácticos para las múltiples aplicaciones en la enseñanza universitaria de la creatividad. Las conclusiones giran en torno a algunas características que parece ir adoptando la enseñanza y la formación en creatividad universitaria, globalmente asimilables a los enfoques transdisciplinares y con base en la complejidad y la conciencia.
Implications of Engineered Nanomaterials in Drinking Water Sources
Authors: Good Kelly D. , Bergman Lauren E. , Klara Steven S. , Leitch Megan E. , VanBriesen Jeanne M.
Published: September 2015

Nanotechnology has grown rapidly over the last two decades, leading to advances in science and engineering and to releases of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) to drinking water sources. Conventional drinking water treatment processes remove sub‐micron particles, including natural nanomaterials (e.g., viruses); however, the novel shapes, configurations, and properties of ENMs may enable their persistence. This review of the state of knowledge of ENM production and release, environmental fate and transport, detection in aquatic environments, and removal in drinking water treatment shows that detection methods and source water data are limited. In the absence of adequate methods for detecting ENMs in the environment, models have been developed and predict that ENM concentrations in surface water are likely to be very low (<<1 μg/L), and research of physicochemical transformations of ENMs in the environment suggests that they will be transformed into forms that are more likely to be removed during drinking water treatment.
Interrater Reliability of Four Sensory Measures in People with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Uszynski Marcin , Purtill Helen , Coote Susan
Published: September 2015

Background: Sensory disturbances are a major problem for people with multiple sclerosis (MS), and up to 80% of people with MS present with various sensory deficits. To date, only one study has investigated the reliability of sensory measures in people with MS. We sought to determine the interrater reliability of the verbal analogue scale (VAS), the Erasmus MC modifications to the revised Nottingham Sensory Assessment (EmNSA), Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments (SWMs), and the neurothesiometer (NT) in people with MS.

Methods: A random sample of 34 people with MS who could walk independently with or without a device was tested by two raters on the same day. For categorical data, percentage agreement, Cohen's kappa, and prevalence-adjusted bias-adjusted kappa were used. For continuous data, interclass correlation coefficient (ICC[2,1]) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs), Bland and Altman analysis, and standard error of measurement (SEM) were calculated.

Results: For NT, ICC(2,1) values were good, with the highest for first metatarsophalangeal joint (ICC[2,1] = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.69–0.92, SEM = 4.98). The highest ICC(2,1) for VAS was for the question relating to feeling numbness in the hand (ICC[2,1] = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.86–0.96, SEM = 0.64). Findings for EmNSA and SWMs need further verification owing to possible ceiling effects.

Conclusions: The NT and VAS had good interrater reliability and should be considered for measuring sensation in ambulatory people with MS. Findings for EmNSA and SWMs revealed either questionable or poor reliability, suggesting the need for further investigation.
The Shape of Watershed Governance: Locating the Boundaries of Multiplex Networks
Authors: Scheinert Steve , Koliba Christopher , Hurley Stephanie , Coleman Sarah , Zia Asim
Published: September 2015

Governance networks are both nested and interconnected systems. Identifying internal boundaries within governance networks, such as those governance structures that influence and are influenced by large and diverse watersheds such as the Lake Champlain Basin, is necessary for differentiating between multiple functional subnetworks. Internal network boundaries exist between functional subnetworks when the networks have divergent structures (Weible & Sabatier, 2005). A qualitative case study of Lake Champlain Basin watershed governance networks identified several key overlapping subnetworks in which organizations interact in a variety of ways (Koliba, Reynolds, Zia, & Scheinert, 2015). An online survey of institutional actors was used to identify which actors were connected in five different functional subnetworks. Structural comparisons are made by analyzing the correlation between the subnetworks based on the quadratic assignment procedure (QAP) and network macrostructure. Results show that the information sharing, technical assistance, and project collaboration subnetworks formed one grouping, while the reporting and financial resource sharing subnetworks formed another grouping. The results demonstrated that this triangulated comparison was necessary to reach valid conclusions on the structural variation between the subnetworks on a multiplex network when subnetworks were structurally similar.
Growth Restriction in the Offspring of Mothers With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Talmo Maren Sophie Aaserud , Fløysand Ingvild Skogedal , Nilsen Guro Ørndal , Løvvik Tone S. , Ødegård Rønnaug , Juliusson Petur Benedikt , Vanky Eszter , Simpson Melanie Rae
Published: August 2024

Importance

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder, characterized by subfertility, increased risk of metabolic diseases, and pregnancy complications. Previous studies diverge regarding the association between maternal PCOS and newborn anthropometrics.

Objective

To explore the association between maternal PCOS and newborn anthropometrics and the modifying effects of maternal body mass index, PCOS phenotype, and gestational diabetes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study followed up women from the first half of pregnancy to birth and combined data from 3 clinical trials of pregnant women with PCOS and a reference population consisting of participants in the Norwegian Mother, Father, and Child Cohort (MoBa) Study, with data from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway. The recruitment period for the clinical trials was between October 1, 2000, and August 31, 2017, and for MoBa, between July 1, 1999, and December 31, 2008. Participants included women with singleton pregnancies and live-born children. Data were analyzed from January 1 to June 15, 2023.

Exposure

Maternal PCOS status.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Newborn birth weight, birth length, and head circumference as continuous variables and z scores, and ponderal index (calculated as the birth weight in grams × 100 divided by the birth length in centimeters cubed), placenta weight, and ratio of birth weight to placenta weight (BWPW).

Results

The cohort included 390 pregnant women with PCOS (mean [SD] age, 29.6 [4.2] years) and 68 708 women in the reference group (mean [SD] age, 30.4 [4.5] years). Offspring in the PCOS group had lower birth weight, birth length, and head circumference than in the reference group offspring. The estimated mean differences in z scores were −0.26 (95% CI, −0.38 to −0.14) for birth weight, −0.19 (95% CI, −0.33 to −0.05) for birth length, and −0.13 (95% CI, −0.26 to −0.01) for head circumference. The PCOS group also had a lower ponderal index (−0.04 [95% CI, −0.07 to −0.004] g × 100/cm3) and placenta weight (−24 [95% CI, −43 to −5)] g), and higher BWPW ratio (0.4 [95% CI, 0.3 to 0.5]). The association between growth restriction and PCOS was more apparent when additionally adjusting for body mass index. Neither PCOS phenotype nor gestational diabetes diagnosis was associated with neonatal anthropometry in women with PCOS.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort of mother-infant pairs, maternal PCOS status was associated with lower birth weight, shorter birth length, and smaller head circumference in the offspring. This growth restriction was more pronounced when adjusting for BMI, providing insight into the association between PCOS and body mass index. The study contributed to the understanding of how PCOS affects the offspring.
Comprehensive clinical implementation, workflow, and FMEA of bespoke silicone bolus cast from 3D printed molds using open‐source resources
Authors: Hobbis Dean , Armstrong Michael D. , Patel Samir H. , Tegtmeier Riley C. , Laughlin Brady S. , Chitsazzadeh Shadi , Clouser Edward L. , Smetanick Jennifer L. , Pettit Justin , Gagneur Justin D. , Stoker Joshua B. , Rong Yi , Buckey Courtney R.
Published: August 2024

Background

Bolus materials have been used for decades in radiotherapy. Most frequently, these materials are utilized to bring dose closer to the skin surface to cover superficial targets optimally. While cavity filling, such as nasal cavities, is desirable, traditional commercial bolus is lacking, requiring other solutions. Recently, investigators have worked on utilizing 3D printing technology, including commercially available solutions, which can overcome some challenges with traditional bolus.

Purpose

To utilize failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) to successfully implement a comprehensive 3D printed bolus solution to replace commercial bolus in our clinic using a series of open‐source (or free) software products.

Methods

3D printed molds for bespoke bolus were created by exporting the DICOM structures of the bolus designed in the treatment planning system and manipulated to create a multipart mold for 3D printing. A silicone (Ecoflex 00–30) mixture is poured into the mold and cured to form the bolus. Molds for sheet bolus of five thicknesses were also created. A comprehensive FMEA was performed to guide workflow adjustments and QA steps.

Results

The process map identified 39 and 30 distinct steps for the bespoke and flat sheet bolus workflows, respectively. The corresponding FMEA highlighted 119 and 86 failure modes, with 69 shared between the processes. Misunderstanding of plan intent was a potential cause for most of the highest‐scoring failure modes, indicating that physics and dosimetry involvement early in the process is paramount.

Conclusion

FMEA informed the design and implementation of QA steps to guarantee a safe and high‐quality comprehensive implementation of silicone bolus from 3D printed molds. This approach allows for greater adaptability not afforded by traditional bolus, as well as potential dissemination to other clinics due to the open‐source nature of the workflow.