bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Picking Apples: Can Multi-Attribute Ecolabels Compete?
Authors: Durham Catherine A. , Roheim Cathy A. , Pardoe Iain
Published: October 2012

Global food markets in Europe, the U.S. and elsewhere, are experiencing a rapid growth in the number of private party and government environmental labeling programs. Most current ecolabels are defined by standards related to multiple environmental practices. This study presents an analysis of consumers’ choice of food products, in this case apples with or without ecolabels, where the ecolabels present varying combinations of farm practices with implications for environmental quality. These practices include: whether or not standards are met specific to on-farm pest management; presence of stream or groundwater quality protection; presence of on-farm wildlife habitat provision; and which certifier provides the guarantee. Factors influencing consumer preferences for ecolabel attributes are evaluated as a choice-based conjoint analysis. To empirically test the effect of heterogeneity of consumers on preferences for ecolabel attributes, surveys were conducted in a stratified sample in three regions (Portland, Oregon; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Rhode Island) with a focus on sampling across shoppers at different types of markets including conventional supermarkets, farmers markets, natural food stores and food co-ops. Results show that preferences for ecolabels are most strongly driven by type of pesticide usage, in particular for non-synthetic pesticides which were identified with organic production. With an appropriate price premium, ecolabels with an alternative pest management practice and other environmental practices were preferred to conventionally produced apples. These results varied according to age and gender of respondents, and type of store at which respondents shopped.
Optics for laser material processing
Authors: Pfeffer Michael
Published: October 2012

No abstract available.
Polymorphic mononuclear neutrophils CD64 index for diagnosis of sepsis in postoperative surgical patients and critically ill patients
Authors: Gerrits Jeroen H. , McLaughlin Pamela M.J. , Nienhuis Bert N. , Smit Jan W. , Loef Bert
Published: October 2012

Background: Surface neutrophil CD64 expression is upregulated in patients with bacterial infection. As it was suggested that the CD64 index could be used to detect sepsis in hospitalized patients, we questioned whether the CD64 index could discriminate between septic patients and postoperative surgical patients, defined as systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), both admitted at the intensive care unit (ICU). Furthermore, we wondered whether the CD64 index was an improved diagnostic compared to standard assays used at the laboratory. For this, outclinic (OC) patients were included as controls.

Methods: The Leuko64™ assay was used to determine the CD64 index in residual EDTA blood samples from selected septic patients (n=25), SIRS patients (n=19), and OC patients (n=24). Additionally, WBC count, neutrophilic and eosinophilic granulocyte count, C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were measured simultaneously.

Results: The CD64 index was higher in septic patients compared to both the SIRS and OC group (p<0.0001). In addition, the WBC count, neutrophil count, ESR and CRP were also higher in septic patients than the OC group (p<0.0001). However, only the WBC count, eosinopenia, and ESR were comparable between the SIRS and the sepsis group and proved to be discriminative to the OC group (p<0.05). The CD64 index demonstrated higher sensitivity and specificity than CRP, WBC count, neutrophilic and eosinophilic granulocyte count, and ESR.

Conclusions: A high CD64 index was found in septic intensive care patients, while a low CD64 index was observed in OC and SIRS patients, demonstrating that the CD64 index can be used for routine diagnostics in the ICU setting.
Exploratory study on fatigue behaviour of laterally loaded, nailed timber joints, based on a dissipated energy criterion
Authors: Li Ling , Gong Meng , Smith Ian , Li Dagang
Published: October 2012

Exploration of damage accumulation and reliable prediction of the fatigue lives of laterally loaded, nailed timber joints, are important to proper engineering design of wood structural systems subjected to earthquakes, cyclones/hurricanes or other loads causing fluctuating force flows in such joints. Failure of nailed timber joints typically involves the combination of yielding at plastic hinges in nail and/or the crushing of wood under nails. Force-based criteria can predict the static strength of such joints but cannot reliably predict fatigue behaviour because that depends on loading history and the dissipation of energy within plastic nail hinges and/or crushed wood. In this study, the failure modes, damage accumulation and fatigue life of nailed timber joints subjected to reversed cyclic loads under load-control condition were studied. The results showed that there are two failure modes of nailed timber joints, i.e., ductile failure of nails when the applied load level was higher than 85% of the static maximum load to failure (P

max
) and brittle failure when the applied load level was <85% of P

max
. The damage accumulation involved three phases, i.e., damage initiation, damage propagation and failure. Fatigue life of nailed joints under reversed cyclic loads was modelled by an energy criterion that separated dissipated energy into non-damaging and damaging components demarcated by the fatigue limit. This approach replicated the behaviour of nailed joints tested at 20 load levels of fully reversed repetitive cyclic loading.
Heartwood detection for Scotch pine by fluorescence image analysis
Authors: Antikainen Jukka , Hirvonen Tapani , Kinnunen Jussi , Hauta-Kasari Markku
Published: October 2012

Heartwood detection for Scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris) is possible via several different methods, such as X-ray and infrared cameras. X-ray systems are often very expensive and need huge modifications of sawmill equipment for implementation. Infrared cameras are more affordable but can only be applied for fresh samples with high water content. This article describes a novel imaging method for heartwood detection for Scotch pine, which is based on the fluorescence information emitted of pinosylvin type stilbene and its monomethyl ether. Fluorescence imaging is a low-cost method for measuring heartwood content in real time on an industrial line. The method is applicable for fresh and dried samples. This paper will show the results of fluorescence matrices of Scotch pine. Measurements were made with a bispectrometer system to obtain suitable wavelengths for the excitation and detection of fluorescence. A reliable measuring system is described, which is suited for on-line measurements on an industrial line. An algorithm will also be presented, which is useful for quantification of heartwood and sapwood.
Characteristics of prehydrolysis-kraft pulp fibers from Scots pine
Authors: Saukkonen Esa , Kautto Jesse , Rauvanto Irina , Backfolk Kaj
Published: October 2012

To clarify the influence of prehydrolysis on fiber characteristics, Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) wood chips were subjected to pressurized hot-water and dilute-acid prehydrolysis (0.5% H2SO4) prior to kraft pulping to partially remove hemicelluloses as hydrolyzate. After the prehydrolysis, the wood chips were submitted to kraft pulping and the pulp was fully bleached in oxygen (O), chlorine dioxide (D), alkaline extraction (E) and chlorine dioxide (D)-sequence. Measurements with an automated optical fiber analyzer showed that prehydrolysis prior to kraft pulping caused significant changes in the fiber dimensions and morphology of the final bleached pulp. Especially, a decrease in fiber width and an increase in fiber deformations were observed compared to a reference kraft pulp. The scanning electron microscopy of handsheets supported the morphology analyses and revealed alterations also in the fiber ultrastructure. The changes in both chemical and physical fiber characteristics require attention when considering the correct processing and end-use of prehydrolysis-kraft pulp fibers.
Development of soy-based adhesives for the manufacture of wood composite products
Authors: He Guangbo , Feng Martin , Dai Chunping
Published: October 2012

Soy-based resins have recently attracted great attention as adhesives in the wood composite industry. This article is focusing on hydrolysis and modification of soy protein concentrates to formulate soy-based resins for wood composites. The soy-based resins have been evaluated in terms of bondability on wood substrates and bonding performance in plywood products. The performance of plywood was found to meet the relevant CSA standard (Canadian Standard Association) requirements under both of dry and wet conditions, if the soy-based resins were obtained from low hydrolyzed soy flour. Hydrolysis is an effective and efficient tool for reducing the viscosity of soy resins. However, hydrolysis also reduces the bond strength of soy-based resins as hydrolysis cleaves the macromolecules of soy proteins into smaller molecules. Modified soy-based resins have a certain potential for production of interior- and exterior-used plywood.
Young’s and shear moduli of glued laminated timber composed of different species obtained by a flexural vibration test
Authors: Kubojima Yoshitaka , Tonosaki Mario
Published: October 2012

The applicability of the flexural vibration test to determine the elastic constants of glued laminated timber (GLT) composed of five wood species (ash, Fraxinus spaethiana Lingelsh.; balsa, Ochroma pyramidale Urban.; Japanese cedar, Cryptomeria japonica D. Don; Japanese red pine, Pinus densiflora Sieb. et Zucc.; Sitka spruce, Picea sitchensis Carr.) has been investigated. GLT models were prepared from four laminae with dimensions of 30 (R)×5 (T)×300 (L) mm3. The suitability of Japanese cedar for inner layers in GLTs was tested by flexural vibration test to determine the elastic constants of the laminae and the glued laminated timber. The Young’s and shear moduli were calculated by the Goens-Hearmon regression method based on the Timoshenko theory of bending (TGH method), and the results were compared with the estimated values based on the Young’s and shear moduli measured individually of each lamina. The simple lamination theory was found to be applicable for Young’s modulus but not to shear modulus. The result obtained based on the lamination theory from the shear strain energy was similar to that obtained by the TGH method.
Testosterone replacement in normal and pathologic prostate
Authors: Khera Mohit
Published: October 2012

The testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) market has grown rapidly over the past 5 years. Exogenous testosterone in various forms is now the fastest-growing medication prescribed in the USA. From 2005 to 2009, spending on testosterone jumped 115.5%, and the number of prescriptions filled increased 64.5%. One of the main reasons for this rapid growth in the TRT market is decreased concern that TRT can lead to prostate cancer. Other reasons are decreased concerns that testosterone can lead to worsening of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms. In fact, recent studies suggest that TRT may improve BPH symptoms. Although there have been marked increases in the treatment of low testosterone, lingering concerns about prostate cancer have hindered progress. There are many theories, such as the prostate saturation theory, that may help us understand why testosterone may be safely administered in men with hypogonadism with normal and pathologic prostatic disease.
Well-posedness of the Cauchy problem to a nonlinear magnetoelastic system in 1-D periodic media
Authors: Neves Wladimir , Priimenko Viatcheslav , Vishnevskii Mikhail
Published: October 2012

There is studied well-posedness of the Cauchy problem on torus to a magnetoelastic system. The mathematical model consists of three coupled partial differential equations. One of them is a hyperbolic equation describing the elastic medium and the other two equations form a parabolic system originated from diffusion Maxwell's equations. Experimental measurements suggest that the elastic medium has a periodic structure, moreover with finite number of discontinuities on the fundamental domain. Thus we have studied in this paper the problem which we have defined as periodically Cauchy diffraction problem. The basic result is to prove existence, uniqueness and stability of solutions of the formulated problem.
Studies on biosorption of Cr(VI) on a green resin: dry cow dung powder and tracer technique
Authors: Barot Nisha S. , Bagla Hemlata K.
Published: October 2012

The present investigation entails the application of dry cow dung powder (DCP) as an indigenous, inexpensive and eco-friendly material for the removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous medium. Batch biosorption experiments were conducted employing51Cr(VI) as a tracer and the effect of various process parameters such as optimum pH, temperature, amount of resin, time of equilibration, agitation speed, concentration of metal ions and interfering effect of different saltsetc.were studied. The kinetic studies were carried out employing various models but the best fitting was given by Lagergren Pseudo-second order model with high correlation coefficientR2value of 0.997 and adsorption capacity of 10.20 mg/g. The thermodynamic parameters for biosorption were evaluated as ΔGº = −2.837 kJ/mol, ΔHº = −4.757 kJ/mol and ΔSº = 16.64 J/mol K, which indicated spontaneous and exothermic process with high affinity of DCP for Cr(VI). Many naturally available materials are used for the biosorption of heavy metal pollutants, where most of them are physically or chemically modified. In this research work, DCP has been utilized without any pre or post chemical treatment. Thus it manifests the principle of green chemistry and proves to be an eco-friendly resin.
Radiochemical analysis of concrete samples from accelerator waste
Authors: Schumann Dorothea , Kiselev Daniela , Teichmann Sabine , Synal Hans-Arno , Kubik Peter
Published: October 2012

For the decommissioning and disposal of shielding concrete from accelerator facilities, the Swiss Authorities require information on the radionuclide inventory. Besides the easy-to-measure γ-emitters 152Eu, 60Co, 44Sc, 133Ba, 154Eu, 134Cs, 144Ce, 22Na, also long-lived radionuclides emitting α- or β-radiation like 129I, 10Be, 36Cl, 239/240Pu and 238U have to be studied in order to obtain an overview to which extent they are produced and whether they represent a safety issue. In this study, we present the chemical separation and determination of selected radionuclides in shielding concrete from two different positions in the accelerator facilities at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), the BX2 station, which was shut down in 1998, and the environment of the target M station, where the samples were taken in 1985 during reconstruction. The results of the measurements show that in no case the radionuclide content represents a safety risk. The components can be decommissioned corresponding to the Swiss safety regulations.
41K(n,γ)42K thermal and resonance integral cross section measurements
Authors: Ferreira Jr. Felisberto A. , Maidana Nora L. , Vanin Vito R. , Dias Mauro S. , Koskinas Marina F. , López-Pino Neivy
Published: October 2012

We measured the41K thermal neutron absorption and resonance integral cross sections after the irradiation of KNO3samples near the core of the IEA-R1 IPEN pool-type research reactor. Bare and cadmium-covered targets were irradiated in pairs with Au-Al alloy flux-monitors. The residual activities were measured by gamma-ray spectroscopy with a HPGe detector, with special care to avoid the42K decayβ-emission effects on the spectra. The gamma-ray self-absorption was corrected with the help of MCNP simulations. We applied the Westcott formalism in the average neutron flux determination and calculated the depression coefficients for thermal and epithermal neutrons due to the sample thickness with analytical approximations. We obtained 1.57(4) b and 1.02(4) b, for thermal and resonance integral cross sections, respectively, with correlation coefficient equal to 0.39.
Transient precursor amorphous phases in biomineralization.In the footsteps of Heinz A. Lowenstam
Authors: Addadi Lia , Vidavsky Netta , Weiner Stephen
Published: October 2012

Heinz A. Lowenstam’s discovery in 1967, together with Ken Towe that the magnetite mineral in mature chiton teeth forms from a disordered transient precursor phase, ferrihydrite, remained an isolated curiosity for 30 years. During the last 15 years, many more examples were found in both invertebrates and vertebrates, where the mature crystalline mineral phase is formed through a transient amorphous precursor phase. Here we review this widespread phenomenon, and also describe the details of the transformation process in the formation of the calcitic spicules of the sea urchin larva. We identify many open questions.
Lead Underpotential Deposition on Pt-submonolayer Modified Au(111)
Authors: Yuan Qiuyi , Tripathi Ashish , Slavkovic Milan , Brankovic Stanko R.
Published: October 2012

Lead underpotential deposition on Au(111) surface modified with submonolayer of Pt is studied using cyclic voltammetry and in situ scanning tunneling microscopy methods. The two-dimensional Pt submonolayers (nanoclusters) on Au(111) were obtained by spontaneous Pt deposition on Au(111) from × 103 M {PtCl6}2− + 0.1 M HClO4 solution. The in situ scanning tunneling microscopy data were analyzed using statistical image processing algorithm which enabled quantification of the morphology change on Pt-modified Au(111) surface as a function of applied underpotential. The results suggest that Pb underpotential deposition starts on Au steps and other surface defects, similar to Pb underpotential deposition on Au(111). The further process proceeds by Pb monolayer nucleation and growth on Au terraces into a complete layer. In parallel, the Pb monolayer starts to nucleate on top of the Pt nanoclusters. The final stage of the Pb underpotential deposition is formation of the compact Pb nanoclusters/layer on top of the pre-existing Pt nanoclusters. The scanning tunneling microscopy data suggests that morphology of underpotentially deposited Pb monolayer on Pt-modified Au(111) is similar to the starting surface in terms of the areal density of nanoclusters, their size and shape. The morphological changes of the Pt modified Au(111) surface during Pb underpotential deposition are correlated with cyclic voltammetry results.
Nitrate Reduction on Platinum (111) Surfaces Modifiedl with Bi: Single Crystalsl and Nanoparticles
Authors: Figueiredo Marta C. , Vidal-Iglesias Francisco , Solla-Gullón José , Climent Víctor , Feliu Juan M.
Published: October 2012

Nitrate reduction on well-oriented platinum surfaces modified with Bi adatoms has been studied. The quantification of the electrocatalytic enhancement of the reaction rate due to the presence of Bi at different coverages was made on Pt(111) and the vicinal surfaces Pt(554) and Pt(332). These contain 9 and 5 atoms-width (111) terraces, respectively, separated by (110) monoatomic steps. The study was then extended to preferentially {111}Pt oriented nanoparticles. In all cases, Bi catalyzes nitrate reduction at high potentials, but the catalytic current suddenly drops when Bi is reduced. The analysis of the variation of catalytic activity with Bi coverage reveals the participation of a third body effect, meaning that Bi impedes the NO formation on the surface that acts as a poison for the nitrate reduction.

The poisoning effect was also quantified by measuring the stripping of adsorbed NO spontaneously formed by contacting, with nitrate solutions, electrodes with different Bi coverage. The results of both single crystals and preferentially oriented nanoparticles agree with the supposed third body effect.

The comparison of Pt nanoparticles with the stepped surfaces, Pt(554) and Pt(332), suggests that the main differences are related to the size of the terraces and not to the existence of defects/steps that do not seem to play any significant contribution to the catalysis.
Building versus Structure Elements: Ionic Charge Carriers in Solids
Authors: Maier Joachim
Published: October 2012

The contribution deals with the thermodynamics of charge carriers in crystals, in particular with the distinction between building and structure elements. In this context the use of the basic mechanistic processes (addition, elimination, substitution) usually applied for describing reactions with organic molecules proves helpful. It is shown that as far as thermodynamics is concerned, the use of building elements is to be preferred. The only advantage of structure elements is that they automatically include site exhaustibility effects, which have to be included by using Fermi-Dirac statistics in the case of building elements. A rigorous proof is given for the applicability of the structure element approach for the interaction free case. If interactions have to be considered and multinary crystals are addressed, the structure element approach becomes artificial. In the case of kinetic considerations structure elements naturally appear in the rate equation. If the rates approach zero the description has to match the building element description. How interactions behave as a function of the deviation from equilibrium is a matter of specific considerations.
Bayesian inference for bioenergetic models
Authors: Johnson Leah R. , Pecquerie Laure , Nisbet Roger M.
Published: October 2012

Dynamic energy budget (DEB) theory provides a sophisticated, mechanistic framework for understanding the full life cycles of individuals within a complex environment. By relating environmental conditions, notably food availability, to individual life histories, DEB theory makes it possible, in principle, to make predictions for individuals and populations that extend beyond the conditions used to develop and parameterize the model. However, for this approach to reach its full potential as a predictive theory, we need methods of similar sophistication to link unobservable modeled quantities to data and to infer model parameters. Here, we develop such a method in a Bayesian framework. We offer a rigorous methodology for modeling the link between underlying unobservable states and observable quantities and for parameter inference. The methodology is introduced and its effectiveness as applied to data simulated under various dynamic food regimes is demonstrated. We also examine how parameter estimates can be affected by misspecification of the food model, specifically by assuming a constant food level when the true underlying dynamics are variable. This is critical as many published applications of DEB theory assume constant food when estimating parameter values. The effectiveness of the approach for data on the growth and reproduction of the water flea Daphnia is also discussed.
Experimental evaluation of predation as a facilitator of invasion success in a stream fish
Authors: Fraser Douglas F. , Lamphere Bradley A.
Published: October 2012

Predator–prey relationships in poikilotherms are often size dependent, such as when adults of two interacting species are capable of eating juveniles of the other species. Such bi‐directional predation can be important during the establishment and spread of an invading species, but its role remains poorly understood. Using a combination of laboratory and mesocosm experiments and field introductions, we demonstrate that guppies, Poecilia reticulata, prey on juvenile killifish, Rivulus hartii, and thereby facilitate their establishment in the habitat of a potential predator. Laboratory studies found that mature guppies can consume larval Rivulus, and experimental stream studies showed that guppies reduced the number of Rivulus surviving from eggs. Growth trials found that interspecific competition, while significant, cannot account for the declines in the survival of juvenile Rivulus seen in field surveys. Finally, a field experiment, in which guppies were introduced into previously guppy‐free stream reaches, resulted in a marked reduction in the abundance of juvenile Rivulus relative to guppy‐free controls. Together, these results indicate that reducing the native Rivulus population represents an important mechanism promoting guppy invasion success.
Determination of Mass Transfer Parameters in Solvent-Based Oil Recovery Processes
Authors: Etminan S. Reza
Published: October 2012

Having reliable estimate of gaseous-solvents molecular diffusion coefficients in heavy oil and bitumen is a requisite for analysis and design of gas injection and solvent-based recovery techniques. Nevertheless, diffusion coefficient is not measured accurately unless all the other contributing mass transfer parameters are considered, included in the modeling, and estimated correctly. These parameters are gas solubility and the interface resistance, of which the latter is represented by mass transfer coefficient. In this work, an analytical model is introduced in conjunction with an inverse technique to obtain these three abovementioned parameters using pressure decay technique. One of the objectives of this work is characterization of interface resistance both numerically and physically. In this work, we will evaluate one of the possible reasons for the presence of resistance at the gas-oil interface.
The association between orthodontic treatment with removal of premolars and the angulation of developing mandibular third molars over time
Authors: Russell Bradly , Skvara Mark , Draper Eric , Proffit William R. , Philips Ceib , White Raymond P.
Published: October 2012

Objective:

To assess changes in mandibular third molar angulation during orthodontic treatment in subjects having either first or second premolars or neither removed.

Materials and Methods:

In a retrospective study approved by the institutional review board, right and left mandibular third molar angulations were compared to the vertical axis of adjacent second molars before and at the end of orthodontic treatment. The sample included 25 subjects with first premolars removed, 25 subjects with second premolars removed, and 24 subjects with no premolars removed. A decrease in angulation over time of at least 5°, so that the third molar became more vertical, was considered clinically favorable. Data were assessed by a linear mixed effect model and a proportional odds model with significance set at P < .05.

Results:

Prior to treatment, the average mandibular third molar angulation did not differ significantly among the three study groups (P  =  .97). The average change during treatment was not significantly affected by group (P  =  .59), but a higher proportion of mandibular third molars were more vertical by at least 5° in the second premolar extraction group compared to the other two groups at the completion of treatment.

Conclusion:

Although creating space for third molars to erupt and function has intuitive appeal, clinicians should not assume that third molars will move upright to a vertical position even if premolar removal is performed as part of an orthodontic treatment plan.
Multifocal osteoma of external auditory canal in a child. A case report
Authors: Zielinski Rafal , Zakrzewska Anna
Published: October 2012

Osteomas of external auditory canal are most often unilateral, solitary, pedunculated hard tumors located on the anterior and superior wall of the structure in its distal part. They have to be distinguished from exostoses of external auditory meatus. Osteomas of external auditory canal are very rare and apart from isolated cases are not described in children population. The case presented in the paper shows the possibility of a presence of unilateral multifocal osteoma of an external auditory canal in a child, which is not described in the literature concerning the topic.
Unrecognized anterior urethral valves as a cause of renal failure
Authors: Kojovic Vladimir , Djordjevic Miroslav , Bizic Marta , Majstorovic Marko
Published: October 2012

Congenital obstruction of the male urethra is usually caused by posterior urethral valves. Anterior urethral valves (AUV) represent a rare anomaly with a wide spectrum of presentation varying from mild voiding difficulties to end-stage renal disease. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment is essential to prevent renal impairment. We report the case of a 13 month-old boy who presented with deterioration of kidney function caused by unrecognized AUV disorder. Temporary cutaneous vesicostomy was necessary to protect the upper urinary tract from further damage and to stabilize renal function. Even though a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) demonstrated obstruction of distal urethra, AUV were initially overlooked but finally diagnosed on additional VCUG followed by urethroscopy.
Direct and airborne contact dermatitis in a beekeeper from the Małopolska region
Authors: Basista Katarzyna
Published: October 2012

The paper describes an atypical case of simultaneous airborne and direct contact dermatitis in a beekeeper from the Małopolska region. This is the third such case described in a beekeeper in the world and the first in Poland. I suggest that propolis should be regarded as both a direct and airborne contact allergen in beekeepers.
Surgical Management of Infantile Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis by Double-Y Pyloromyotomy: A Better Approach
Authors: Ali Md. Ansar , Hasina Kaniz , Naim Abu , Israil Md. Anwar , Mahbub-Ul-Alam Md. , Talukder Abdur Rabban , Yusuf Md. Abdullah , Rahman Md. Khalilur , Wahidur Rahman Nawshad Muhammad , Hossain Md. Afzal
Published: October 2012

Background: Various treatment modalities have been applied for the management of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. However surgery remains the mainstay of treatment for IHPS of which Ramstedt's pyloromyotomy remains the surgical technique of choice. Objective: To see the outcome of surgical management of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis by double-Y pyloromyotomy. Methods: A prospective interventional study of 40 patients with IHPS was carried out over a period of 2 years from July 2008 to July 2010. The patients were divided into 2 equal groups of 20 patients in each. All patients selected for study were optimized preoperatively regarding to hydration, acid-base status and electrolytes imbalance. All surgeries were performed after obtaining informed consent. Standard preoperative preparation and postoperative feeding regimes were used. The patients were operated on an alternate basis, i.e., one patient by Double-Y Pyloromyotomy (DY) and the next by a Ramstedt's Pyloromyotomy (RP). Data on patient demographics, operative time, anaesthesia complications and postoperative complications including vomiting and weight gain were collected. Patients were followed up for a period of 3 months postoperatively. Statistical assessments were done by using t test. Results: From July 2008 through July 2010, forty patients were finally analyzed for this study. Any statistical differences were observed in patient population regarding age, sex, weight at presentation, symptoms and clinical condition including electrolytes imbalance and acid-base status were recorded. Significant differences were found in postoperative vomiting and weight gain. Data of post operative vomiting and weight gain in both groups were collected. Vomiting in double-Y(DY) pyloromyotomy group vs Ramstedt's pyloromyotomy (RP) group was significant (p= 0.0001). Weight gain after 1st 10 days DY vs RP is 298 ± 57.94 gm vs 193±19.8 gm (p=0.0014), after 1 month 676.67±149.84 gm vs 466.67 ± 127.71 gm (p=0.0001), after 2 months 741.33± 278.74 gm vs 490±80.62 gm (p=0.002) and after 3 months 582±36.01gm vs 453.33±51.64 gm (p=0.0001). No long-term complications were reported and no re-do pyloromyotomy was needed.Conclusion: The double-Y pyloromyotomy seems to be a better technique for the surgical management of IHPS. It may offer a better functional outcome in term of postoperative vomiting and weight gain. J Shaheed Suhrawardy Med Coll, 2011;3 (2): 38-40 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jssmc.v3i2.12076
Protective Effect of Tulbaghia violacea Harv. on Aortic Pathology, Tissue Antioxidant Enzymes and Liver Damage in Diet-Induced Atherosclerotic Rats
Authors: Olorunnisola Olubukola S. , Bradley Graeme , Afolayan Anthony J.
Published: October 2012

The protective effect Tulbaghia violacea rhizomes (TVR) against derangements in serum lipid profile, tissue antioxidant enzyme depletion, endothelium dysfunction and histopathological changes in the aorta and liver of rats fed with an atherosclerogenic (Ath) diet (4% cholesterol, 1% cholic acid and 0.5% thiouracil) was investigated in this study. Co-treatment with the TVR extracts (250 and 500 mg/kg body weight for two weeks significantly (p < 0.05) protected against elevated serum triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), LDL-cholesterol, VLDL-cholesterol and decreased HDL-cholesterol in a dose-dependent manner when compared with the atherogenic control. The extracts also reduced (p < 0.05) elevated thiobabutric reacting substance (TBARS) and reversed endothelial dysfunction parameters (fibrinogen and total NO levels) and tissue antioxidant enzyme activities to near normal. The protective ability of the extract was confirmed by the significant (p < 0.05) reduction in the activities of serum markers of liver (LDH, AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin) and kidney damage (creatinine and bilirubin) in extract-treated groups compared with the atherogenic control group. Also, histopathology evaluations of aorta sections revealed that the extracts protected against the development of fatty streak plaques (aorta) and fatty changes in hepatocytes. The observed activities of the extracts compared favorably with standard drug atorvastatin. Our study thus showed that the methanolic extract of TVR could protect against the early onset of atherosclerosis.
Proteins of Unknown Function in the Protein Data Bank (PDB): An Inventory of True Uncharacterized Proteins and Computational Tools for Their Analysis
Authors: Nadzirin Nurul , Firdaus-Raih Mohd
Published: October 2012

Proteins of uncharacterized functions form a large part of many of the currently available biological databases and this situation exists even in the Protein Data Bank (PDB). Our analysis of recent PDB data revealed that only 42.53% of PDB entries (1084 coordinate files) that were categorized under “unknown function” are true examples of proteins of unknown function at this point in time. The remainder 1465 entries also annotated as such appear to be able to have their annotations re-assessed, based on the availability of direct functional characterization experiments for the protein itself, or for homologous sequences or structures thus enabling computational function inference.
Theoretical Models for Surface Forces and Adhesion and Their Measurement Using Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Leite Fabio L. , Bueno Carolina C. , Da Róz Alessandra L. , Ziemath Ervino C. , Oliveira Osvaldo N.
Published: October 2012

The increasing importance of studies on soft matter and their impact on new technologies, including those associated with nanotechnology, has brought intermolecular and surface forces to the forefront of physics and materials science, for these are the prevailing forces in micro and nanosystems. With experimental methods such as the atomic force spectroscopy (AFS), it is now possible to measure these forces accurately, in addition to providing information on local material properties such as elasticity, hardness and adhesion. This review provides the theoretical and experimental background of afs, adhesion forces, intermolecular interactions and surface forces in air, vacuum and in solution.
Fragment-Based Screening by Protein Crystallography: Successes and Pitfalls
Authors: Chilingaryan Zorik , Yin Zhou , Oakley Aaron J.
Published: October 2012

Fragment-based drug discovery (FBDD) concerns the screening of low-molecular weight compounds against macromolecular targets of clinical relevance. These compounds act as starting points for the development of drugs. FBDD has evolved and grown in popularity over the past 15 years. In this paper, the rationale and technology behind the use of X-ray crystallography in fragment based screening (FBS) will be described, including fragment library design and use of synchrotron radiation and robotics for high-throughput X-ray data collection. Some recent uses of crystallography in FBS will be described in detail, including interrogation of the drug targets β-secretase, phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase, phosphodiesterase 4A and Hsp90. These examples provide illustrations of projects where crystallography is straightforward or difficult, and where other screening methods can help overcome the limitations of crystallography necessitated by diffraction quality.
Mechanical, Thermal and Morphological Properties of Poly(lactic acid)/Epoxidized Palm Olein Blend
Authors: Silverajah V. S. Giita , Ibrahim Nor Azowa , Zainuddin Norhazlin , Yunus Wan Md Zin Wan , Hassan Hazimah Abu
Published: October 2012

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is known to be a useful material in substituting the conventional petroleum-based polymer used in packaging, due to its biodegradability and high mechanical strength. Despite the excellent properties of PLA, low flexibility has limited the application of this material. Thus, epoxidized palm olein (EPO) was incorporated into PLA at different loadings (1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 wt%) through the melt blending technique and the product was characterized. The addition of EPO resulted in a decrease in glass transition temperature and an increase of elongation-at-break, which indicates an increase in the PLA chain mobility. PLA/EPO blends also exhibited higher thermal stability than neat PLA. Further, the PLA/1 wt% EPO blend showed enhancement in the tensile, flexural and impact properties. This is due to improved interaction in the blend producing good compatible morphologies, which can be revealed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis. Therefore, PLA can be efficiently plasticized by EPO and the feasibility of its use as flexible film for food packaging should be considered.
Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Crude Oil from Winter Melon (Benincasa hispida) Seed Using Response Surface Methodology and Evaluation of Its Antioxidant Activity, Total Phenolic Content and Fatty Acid Composition
Authors: Bimakr Mandana , Rahman Russly Abdul , Taip Farah Saleena , Adzahan Noranizan Mohd , Sarker Md. Zaidul Islam , Ganjloo Ali
Published: October 2012

In the present study, ultrasound-assisted extraction of crude oil from winter melon seeds was investigated through response surface methodology (RSM). Process variables were power level (25–75%), temperature (45–55 °C) and sonication time (20–40 min). It was found that all process variables have significant (p < 0.05) effects on the response variable. A central composite design (CCD) was used to determine the optimum process conditions. Optimal conditions were identified as 65% power level, 52 °C temperature and 36 min sonication time for maximum crude yield (108.62 mg-extract/g-dried matter). The antioxidant activity, total phenolic content and fatty acid composition of extract obtained under optimized conditions were determined and compared with those of oil obtained by the Soxhlet method. It was found that crude extract yield (CEY) of ultrasound-assisted extraction was lower than that of the Soxhlet method, whereas antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of the extract obtained by ultrasound-assisted extraction were clearly higher than those of the Soxhlet extract. Furthermore, both extracts were rich in unsaturated fatty acids. The major fatty acids of the both extracts were linoleic acid and oleic acid.
Hypomethylation and Over-Expression of the Beta Isoform of BLIMP1 is Induced by Epstein-Barr Virus Infection of B Cells; Potential Implications for the Pathogenesis of EBV-Associated Lymphomas
Authors: Vrzalikova Katerina , Leonard Sarah , Fan Yichao , Bell Andrew , Vockerodt Martina , Flodr Patrik , Wright Kenneth L. , Rowe Martin , Tao Qian , Murray Paul G.
Published: October 2012

B-lymphocyte-induced maturation protein 1 (BLIMP1) exists as two major isoforms, α and β, which arise from alternate promoters. Inactivation of the full length BLIMP1α isoform is thought to contribute to B cell lymphomagenesis by blocking post-germinal centre (GC) B cell differentiation. In contrast, the shorter β isoform is functionally impaired and over-expressed in several haematological malignancies, including diffuse large B cell lymphomas (DLBCL). We have studied the influence on BLIMP1β expression of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a human herpesvirus that is implicated in the pathogenesis of several GC-derived lymphomas, including a subset of DLBCL and Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL). We show that BLIMP1β expression is increased following the EBV infection of normal human tonsillar GC B cells. We also show that this change in expression is accompanied by hypomethylation of the BLIMP1β-specific promoter. Furthermore, we confirmed previous reports that the BLIMP1β promoter is hypomethylated in DLBCL cell lines and show for the first time that BLIMP1β is hypomethylated in the Hodgkin/Reed-Sternberg (HRS) cells of HL. Our results provide evidence in support of a role for BLIMP1β in the pathogenesis of EBV-associated B cell lymphomas.
Analysis on Energy Consumption and Indoor Environment in Kunming, China
Authors: Hu Tianchi , Yoshino Hiroshi
Published: October 2012

The purposes of this study are to investigate and analyze the actual conditions of the urban residential energy consumption, and hence to ascertain what will be the important factors that influence the annual energy consumption in Kunming, which has a mild climate. The questionnaire surveys reveal building characteristics, housing appliances, household characteristics, indoor thermal environment and aspects of life style, during winter and summer seasons. The questionnaire analyses show that only 5% of the investigated households have air conditioning, and 12% have heating appliances. Most households use solar energy as a water heater energy source because the sunshine hours in Kunming are long. The energy consumption analyses show that the average annual energy consumption of households in Kunming reached 12.2 GJ, and cooking accounted for 5.3 GJ, which is the largest part. Most of the time in summer, the outdoor temperature is lower than living room and bedroom temperatures; thus, natural ventilation is a useful cooling method for households in Kunming. The absolute humidity in summer is about 11 g/kg, while in winter it is about 5 g/kg. The influence factor analyses show that building construction year, water heater type and annual income are important influential factors on annual energy consumption.
Risk Management in Major Sporting Events: A Participating National Olympic Team's Perspective
Authors: Hanstad Dag Vidar
Published: October 2012

This article explores the process of risk management in a major sporting event from the perspective of a participating team. More specifically, the article examines how Norway's national team before and during the 2010 Olympic Winter Games (OWG) in Vancouver (i) identified the risk
management issues, and (ii) handled risk strategies. The qualitative case study reported here draws upon documents and interviews with key actors in the Norwegian Top Sports Program (Olympiatoppen) and other important stakeholders for the preparation and implementation of the Vancouver project
based on the experiences from 2006 OWG in Turin, Italy. The article utilizes previous research on risk management and strategic management in order to analyze a participating team's preparation and implementation. A framework for dealing with risk management issues experienced by participating
teams at sporting events is provided.
The Attributes Influencing Wedding Reception Venue Selection
Authors: Daniels Margaret J. , Lee Seungwon , Cohen Tessa
Published: October 2012

While wedding expenditure patterns and averages are well documented, there is a shortage of knowledge regarding wedding spending determinants. The current study focuses on the largest expenditure category, comprised of the reception and associated rentals, to shed light on the variables that influence the decision-making process when couples select a venue. Newlyweds living in the Washington, DC metropolitan area completed an online questionnaire where they provided details regarding wedding specifics and rated the importance of 40 selection attributes associated with their chosen reception venues. Principal components extraction revealed five meaningful factors: communication, food/beverage, aesthetics, pricing, and access. Implications focus on communication immediacy, staff training, aesthetic flexibility, pricing transparency, and spatial dynamics.
Projet Télétandem Brésil, trois années d'échanges franco-brésiliens en ligne : le point de vue des étudiants français
Authors: Santos Liliane
Published: October 2012

Le projet Télétandem Brésil (Unesp, 2006) met en relation des étudiants de portugais de l'université de Lille 3 (France) et des étudiants de français de l'université de l'État de São Paulo (Brésil), pour, selon les principes du tandem, qu'ils s'engagent dans un processus d'apprentissage collaboratif dans leur langue et culture respectives fondé sur l'autonomie et la réciprocité. L'analyse des carnets de bord tenus par les étudiants tout au long de la formation, des rapports de fin de semestre, et des messages échangés entre partenaires permettra de dégager le point de vue des étudiants sur le fonctionnement du projet et du partenariat, ainsi que sur les thèmes traités avec leurs partenaires. Cela nous permettra en outre de faire quelques propositions concernant les conditions d'un partenariat réussi tant du point de vue matériel et culturel que de la relation entre les individus impliqués dans un tel projet.
New Six-High Mills in Cold Tandem Rolling - Control Strategies and Performance Characteristics
Authors: Zhang Qing Dong , Chen Xian Lin
Published: October 2012

Two new types of six-high cold mills, CVC6 and UCMW, are equally equipped with perfect control systems to meet demands for thinner sheet products with better profile and flatness but diverse from each other in strategy of control. To strike a balance between them is the problem for analysis.
Research on the Edge Drop Control Strategy in Cold Tandem Rolling Mill
Authors: Zhou Xiao Min , Mao Yang Jun , Wu Yun Feng
Published: October 2012

Edge Drop Control is the weak point although it enriches the contents of the shape control in cold tandem rolling mill. In this paper, the existing edge drop control strategy is analyzed and the edge drop control strategy optimization is researched. The simulation results show that the optimized control system can effectively control the edge drop.
Rolling Theory Analysis and Forces Calculation of Heavy Cylinder Rolling Mill with Two Drive Rolls
Authors: Sun Jian Liang , Peng Yan , Liu Hong Min , Liu Gang
Published: October 2012

Took the heavy cylinder rolling mill as subject investigated, which is used to produce the nuclear power cylinder, the large hydrogenation reactor cylinder and the coal liquefaction reactor cylinder. And the cylinder rolling mill has two drive rolls which is different from conventional ring rolling mill. The rolling theory of heavy cylinder rolling mill was researched deeply based on mechanism method, including the biting condition, the plastic penetration condition, the feed condition and the feed velocity condition; the rolling force parameters of heavy cylinder rolling mill with two drive rolls were calculated based on the slip line method (SLM) and finite element method (FEM), and the simulation and industrial experiment were done; the influences of main technology parameters such as feed velocity, friction coefficient and temperature on the rolling force parameters were analyzed. The results show that the error of calculated rolling force and the measured value is less than 5%, which proves that the basic conditions deduced by theory method are correct, the models established based on SLM and FEM are correct. And with the increase of feed velocity, the rolling force increase, after a rolling circle, the rolling force fluctuates at a constant value; with the increase of friction coefficient, the rolling force increase; with the increase of initial temperature, the rolling force decrease.