bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphology and Dielectric Properties of some LDPE/PA Blends in Presence of Compatibilizers
Authors: Aradoaei Sebastian Teodor , Darie Raluca Nicoleta , Vasile Cornelia , Mosneagu Mihaela , Olariu Marius Andrei
Published: May 2012

The article emphasizes the improvement of compatibility in a polymer blend composed of two normally incompatible constituents as LDPE and PA6. The effect of amount and type of compatibilizing agents is evaluated using electronic microscopy and dielectric spectroscopy, to obtain the optimum materials structure.
Turning of Advanced Alloys with Vibrating Cutting Tool
Authors: Muhammad Riaz , Ahmed Naseer , Roy Anish , Silberschmidt Vadim V.
Published: May 2012

A demand for high-strength alloys in aerospace, marine and off-shore industries has stimulated development of new and efficient machining techniques. In the recent past, a novel machining technique known as ultrasonically assisted turning (UAT) has been introduced; in it low-energy ultrasonic vibration is superimposed on movement of a cutting tool. In the present work, a comparative study of machining of two advanced alloys - Ti15V3Cr3Al3Sn and Inconel 718 - is carried out numerically by developing a two-dimensional finite-element model of the turning process. A non-linear material description is used in the FE model to incorporate plastic deformation behaviour of the high-strength alloys. The model is employed to investigate the effect of tool geometry and contact conditions on cutting forces, temperature of the cutting region and the chip shape in orthogonal turning of modern alloys.
Study on Continuous Casting of Steel by Sizes
Authors: Ardelean Erika , Ardelean Marius , Drăgoi Florin , Popa Erika
Published: May 2012

Continuous casting of steel has gradually replaced traditional casting, due to many advantages such as: casting to a close form to the finished product, low steel losses, the possibility of sequential casting of steel, high productivity, quality of continuously cast product. To benefit of all these advantages, the continuous casting machine must be flexible relative to the demands of customers. This paper presents a comparative analysis relative to main parameters of steel continuous casting for more type of semi-finished product, by processing of data collected from a continuous casting plant with five casting wires. From this study, can be pointed reliable conclusions relatively to the correlation of casting factors and the operating parameters for casting machine and with quality indicators for semi-finished continuous casting product.
Research on Welded Thin NiTi Wires and Orthodontic Bands
Authors: Szuhanek Camelia , Fleșer Traian
Published: May 2012

NiTi welded joints in the form of wires or thin blades are used in orthodontic appliances. Problems arise due to welding heat transfer sections specifically reduced. The research is focused on the welding flame, laser and ultrasound. The main objective is to define the characteristics of use of welded joints based on mechanical testing of tensile, hardness determination, metallographic examination. The study was enjoyed on a statistical interpretation of results. The results highlight the comparative strengths, weaknesses of the processes used respectively. It highlights opportunities offered by laser welding process is related to the flame, i.e. ultrasound.
Effect of Sintering Parameters on the Stability of Phases of the ZnFe2O4/α-Fe Nanocomposite
Authors: Tarța Vasile Florin , Chicinaş Ionel , Marinca Traian Florin , Neamţu Bogdan Viorel , Popa Florin
Published: May 2012

The ZnFe2O4/α-Fe nanocomposite powders were obtained by ball milling starting from ZnFe2O4 powder synthesized by classical ceramic method and commercial iron powder. Two way of milling were used for the synthesis of the ZnFe2O4/α-Fe nanocomposite. In both cases after milling process the phases are relatively uniformly distributed in material and zinc ferrite mean crystallite size decreases from micrometric range up to 11 nm for the first milling mode and up 48 nm for second milling mode. The ZnFe2O4/α-Fe nanocomposite powders were compacted by Spark Plasma Sintering method (SPS). During sintering a reaction between nanocomposite phases occurs, thus leading to the formation of ZnO and FeO. The evolution of the powders during milling and stability of the nanocomposite phases was investigated by X-ray diffraction. The powders and compacts morphology and local chemical homogeneity were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and respectively by energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry (EDX). The influence of the sintering parameters on the stability of nanocomposites phases is studied.
Chill (Carbide) Control in Low Sulphur Electric Melt Grey Cast Irons
Authors: Albu Costin Bogdan , Riposan Iulian
Published: May 2012

Ca, Ba and Ca-Ba bearing FeSi alloys were compared for their effectiveness in chill (carbide) control, using iron chemistries with critical element levels [< 0.035%S, (%Mn) x (%S) < 0.02, <0.003%Al]. Relative clear and total chill measurements were employed, for chill wedges with different cooling modulii (CM = 0.11 – 0.35 cm). Previous experiments illustrated that the eutectic undercooling of this type of base iron is excessively high, demonstrating a relatively high need for inoculation. Under these conditions, Ca inoculation had a significant effect compared to Ba inoculation, while a Ca-Ba combination improved most of the solidification parameters. The results also illustrate the importance of residual Al and confirm its key role in graphite nucleation in grey irons. The content of the active elements (Al, Ca, Ba) in FeSi based alloys appears to be more important if they inoculate low sulphur irons, more so than increasing the addition rate of an unsuitable inoculant composition.
Analysis of Machinability of Ti- and Ni-Based Alloys
Authors: Maurotto Agostino , Roy Anish , Babitsky Vladimir I. , Silberschmidt Vadim V.
Published: May 2012

Efficient machining of advanced Ti- and Ni-based alloys, which are typically difficult-to-machine, is a challenge that needs to be addressed by the industry. During a typical machining operation of such alloys, high cutting forces imposed by a tool on the work-piece material lead to severe deformations in the process zone, along with high stresses, strains and temperatures in the material, eventually affecting the quality of finished work-piece. Conventional machining (CT) of Ti- and Ni-based alloys is typically characterized by low depths of cuts and relatively low feed rates, thus adversely affecting the material removal rates (MRR) in the machining process. In the present work, a novel machining technique, known as Ultrasonically Assisted Turning (UAT) is shown to dramatically improve machining of these intractable alloys. The developed machining process is capable of high MRR with an improved surface quality of the turned work-piece. Average cutting forces are significantly lower in UAT when compared to those in traditional turning techniques at the same machining parameters, demonstrating the capability of vibration-assisted machining as a viable machining method for the future.
Increase the Ingots Quality Cast in Vacuum
Authors: Mincu Valentin , Negru Malin , Constantin Nicolae
Published: May 2012

Most often, product quality is based on purity and homogeneity. To meet these conditions secondary metallurgy was developed including different methods for steel refining, but more important is the choice method of casting and its components. Casting metal melts is one of the key points that can ensure the desired product quality. Depending on the castings complexity, to obtain a high quality material several methods of casting have been developed. One of the most common methods of pouring large ingots is vacuum casting because the metal bath is protected from reoxidation. Another advantage of vacuum casting of steel ingots is achieving wide stream by injecting inert gas (Ar), this stimulates the floating of inclusions and prevents convection currents forming in the metal bath. This wide jet creates particularly advantageous conditions in the degassing process by increasing surface contact between vacuum and molten metal, managing to achieve maximum efficiency of removing gas and lowering the inclusion content. Like other methods of casting metals, besides the benefits of obtaining a quality material some disadvantages may influence the future products. One of the great disadvantages that can lead to scrap is the formation of a crown on the spray limiter during casting. Crowns get formed from non-metallic inclusions obtained from the "washing" the spray limiter. During ingot vacuum pouring because of the contact between steel and spray limiter pieces fall from the formed crown representing a powerful source of exogenous inclusions which can reject the finished product in non-destructive checks. Experimental research presents interesting information on the causes of crown formation and the solutions applied to avoid its formation.
Research of the Milling Time Influence on Ag-Cu Powder Particles Size Processed by Mechanical Alloying Route
Authors: Gîngu Oana , Nicolicescu Claudiu , Sima Gabriela
Published: May 2012

This research focuses on Ag-Cu powder particles processing by mechanical alloying (MA) route. The powder mixture is representative for the eutectic composition, respectively 72%wt. Ag + 28% wt. Cu. The milling process is developed in high energy ball mill Pulverisette 6, using different size for the milling balls, in wet conditions for 80 hours. One of the most important parameter studied in this research is the particle size distribution of the processed powder mixture. Thus, it changes along the milling time, from 10…75 µm at the beginning of MA process up to (60 – 80) nm at 80 h. The milling parameters will be optimized in future research depending on the particle size distribution related with thermophysical and thermodynamic properties focused on electrical and optical properties improvement.
Scanning Strategies for Aluminium and Plastic Parts
Authors: Cioană Cristian , Tulcan Aurel , Grozav Ion , Cosma Cristian
Published: May 2012

Reverse Engineering is a technique that is based on creating virtual models from existing products, is used to enhance or reproduce the look/function/role of the original part. It is used for shape design applications in different domains: aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, civil engineering, architecture, medicine, etc. For many years were used contact acquisition devices because of their ability to collect data with high accuracy, but this devices are slow during the acquisition process and constrained in digitization of small size objects. Thanks to the computer industry development and improvements in laser technology, in recent years have appeared scanning devices and scanning machine which have a smaller data acquisition time, and are able to scan a large variety of objects, whatever the size, shape or material. The advantages and disadvantages using scanning devices will be presented in the paper. In this paper we present an experiment conducted on Roland Laser Scanning Machine LPX-600, in which we want to determine factors influencing the surface quality of virtual models, obtained after scanning. For this experiment we used plastic and aluminum parts, cylindrical and prismatic shapes, both rotary scanning and plane scanning strategies and different scanning resolution. The results were processed and analyzed using Minitab.
Co-Cr Material Selection in Prosthetic Restoration: Laser Sintering Technology
Authors: Reclaru Lucien , Ardelean Lavinia , Rusu Laura Cristina , Sinescu Cosmin
Published: May 2012

Selective laser sintering (SLS) is a manufacturing technique that uses a high power laser to fuse small particles of metal powders into a mass representing a desired 3-dimensional object. The topography of the dental restoration is designed by numerical monitoring after having scanned devised prostheses. In our application the alloy consists of 64-67% Co, 28-30% Cr and 5-6% Mo, and has at equilibrium of a γ monophasic structure. Evaluation and characterisation was made by: Microstructure analysis; Corrosion resistance evaluation; Polarization test; Crevice corrosion test; Release of cations. Dimensional observations of Co-Cr restorations show that adjustment leads to satisfactory clinical results with a precision of 25 μm. The metallographic observations show a slight porosity in the horizontal plan. Punctual analysis shows a high regularity of the local chemical composition. Potentiodynamic polarization curves confirm the presence of the porosity in the structure of the restoration. The technique of manufacturing by selective laser sintering allows obtaining prosthetic elements of high dimensional precision which present mechanical properties in agreement with the clinical requirements. However, the residual porosity inherent to the sintering process may present a risk for fracture and crevice corrosion.
Research about Wearing Resistance of Metal Coating Layers
Authors: Olàh Arthur , Tierean Mircea Horia
Published: May 2012

The paper presents a research about influence of nitrocarburizing on wear resistance of metal coating layer. The research was made using six types of electrodes (El CrMn2, ElCrW8Co, El CrW2, E Cr25Ni20R, E 3161, El 62 H) for metal coating. After metal coating, were applied three variants of plasma nitrocarburizing, and was study their influence on wear resistance. Evaluation of results was made by weighing loss of samples after wearing.
Structural Observation of Twinning Deformation Mechanism in a Ti-Ta-Nb Alloy
Authors: Cojocaru Vasile Danut , Raducanu Doina , Gloriant Thiery , Bertrand Emmanuel , Cinca Ion
Published: May 2012

A Ti-25Ta-25Nb β-type titanium alloy was subjected to thermo-mechanical processing and testing with the aim to observe the twinning deformation mechanism. Data concerning the evolution of twinning versus stress was obtained by SEM and micromechanical testing. Mechanical properties of the investigated alloy were also evaluated
Thermomechanical Processing of a Biocompatible Ti-Ta-Nb Alloy
Authors: Raducanu Doina , Cojocaru Vasile Danut , Cinca Ion , Dan Ioan
Published: May 2012

The design of novel Ti-based alloys for biomedical load-bearing implant application, such as hip or knee prostheses, aims at providing structural materials which are characterized by good corrosion stability in the human body, high fatigue resistance, high strength-to-weight ratio, good ductility, low elastic modulus, excellent wear resistance, low cytotoxicity and a negligible tendency to provoke allergic reactions. Low elastic modulus is required to be close to that of a human bone, in order to transfer the adequate mechanical stress to the surrounding bone. The Young’s modulus of biomaterials is desired to be equal to that of cortical bone because if the Young’s modulus of biomaterials is much greater than that of cortical bone, bone resorption occurs. Investigated samples were subjected to mechanical tests, having provided these mechanical properties: ultimate tensile strength (σUTS), yield strength (σYS), elongation to fracture (εf) and elastic modulus (E).
Experimental Tests on Fine Nitinol Wires Used in Medical Applications
Authors: Amarandei Mihaela , Bogdan Lucian , Cernescu Anghel , Marşavina Liviu , Pătraşcu Jenel Marian , Vermeşan Dinu
Published: May 2012

Nitinol (NiTi) is a biocompatible nickel titanium alloy widely used in medical applications and devices. In anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery of the knee, fine wires of NiTi are used because of its high elasticity and good memory shape behavior. In surgical procedures these wires are exposed to mechanical stress and high deformations. This paper presents the results of the tests performed on fine NiTi wires of 1.1 mm and 0.73 mm in diameter, exposed to tensile load, which frequently appears in orthopedic surgery. The tests were done at a temperature of 37o C, in order to observe the influence of tensile stress on the mechanical properties of NiTi. The obtained material properties are in good correlation with data from manufacturers. These results are useful in durability evaluation of fine NiTi wires utilized in surgical procedures.
The Characterization of Ketoprofen-Hydroxypropyl–β-Cyclodextrin Complex with Modified Drugs Release Properties
Authors: Stamate Monica Cretan , Gafitanu Carmen , Stamate Ciprian , Gafitanu Eliza
Published: May 2012

Since, anti-inflamatory drugs have a high demand due to increased incidence of pain associated with different pathology; the objectives of this paper are the synthesis, the physicochemical characterization and analysis of the tribological properties for the ketoprofen-cyclodextrin complexes. The analysis of solubility for these complexes was carried out using MathCAD software. Tribological factors were evaluated by the wear resistance of cylindrical tablets containing ketoprofen-cyclodextrin complex, methocel and magnesium stearate. The tablets with ketoprofen-cyclodextrin complexes provide good solubility and wear resistance and these are ideal for preparation of extended release systems like implantable tablets or for orally administration tablets.
3D Finite Element Analysis of Restorative Materials Used in Dental Abfractions
Authors: Mărcăuţeanu Corina , Topală Florin , Negrutiu Meda Lavinia , Stoica Eniko Tunde , Sinescu Cosmin
Published: May 2012

Abfractions are wedge-shaped cervical lesions which appear due to flexure of enamel and/or dentin at some location distant from the actual point of loading. The tensions may reach the fatigue limit and lead to rupture of the amelar and dentinal materials. We used the finite element method (FEM) to investigate the effect of high occlusal forces on the dental and restorative materials placed in the cervical buccal region. We developed two 3D models of maxillary premolars in order to compare the stress profiles in the buccal cervical regions under functional (20 N) and parafunctional (800 N) occlusal loads. The discretization of the tooth morphology resulted in 18889 elements and 31425 nodes. The models was subjected to occlusal analysis. The equivalent tensions (Pa) found in the buccal cervical region of the premolars at the application of parafunctional occlusal loads (800 N) are high enough to induce the breakdown of dentinal and compomer materials (over 2.41E+08 Pa). Cervical stresses induced by masticatory forces (20 N) have much lower values, which are not harmful for the dental materials. In conclusion, occlusal overload can cause damage to both the dentinal and compomer restorative materials placed in the cervical buccal region of teeth.
Investigation of an Advanced Material for the Infiltration of White Spot Lesions in Orthodontics
Authors: Ogodescu Alexandru , Sinescu Cosmin , Negrutiu Meda Lavinia , Naghib Riham , Topală Florin , Dodenciu Dorin , Ogodescu Emilia
Published: May 2012

In the Romanian population, during the fixed orthodontic treatment, sometimes appear white spot lesions (WSLs). These are areas of demineralized enamel witch untreated lead to the formation of cavited carious lesions. Until now the therapy of choice for such lesions was fluoridation that proved itself inadequate in terms of aesthetics. The innovative solution of the German Firma DMG (Icon®) proposes the filling and reinforcing of the pore system of a WSL with a light-curable resin (Icon-Infiltrant). The purpose of this study was to assess whether the optical coherence tomography (OCT) can evaluate, in vitro, by en face scans the penetration of this advanced new material into natural enamel caries. We applied the classic therapeutic procedures proposed by the German company. After infiltration of the WSL we observed a deep resin penetration. Clinically there was a significant improvement in the aesthetics of the affected tooth surfaces and their evolution was stopped demonstrating that this technique is effective in the therapy of WSLs at patients with fixed orthodontic therapy. Also OCT proved to be a reliable technique for acquiring images of resin infiltrated WSLs recommending this technology for further fundamental studies in the field.
Heat Treatments Influence on Corrosion Resistance of some New Dental Cobalt Alloys
Authors: Ghiban Alexandru , Ghiban Brandusa , Borţun Cristina Maria , Ghiban Nicolae , Antoniac Iulian
Published: May 2012

A new composition of a dental cobalt alloy was proposed from the system CoCrMoTi, which was compared with a commercial dental alloy, type Wironit. Some heat treatments were applied either for stabilizing the structure, or to simulate welding conditions (such as sensibilization treatments in the range of temperature about 550°C÷-650°C). Corrosion tests were made in two body simulated fluids, respectively infusion NaCl solution and Ringer solution. The results showed that titanium alloying may improve corrosion resistance of the alloy, and also the best state considering corrosion resistance is normalizing at 1100°C with one hour maintaining in air cooling at both alloys, with or without titanium. The worse corrosion resistance is obtained in sensibilized state.
Corrosion Behavior in Ringer Solution of Ti-Mo Alloys Used for Orthopedic Biomedical Applications
Authors: Magheru Andreea Mihaela , Ghiban Brandusa , Ghiban Nicolae , Antoniac Iulian
Published: May 2012

The present paper take in consideration two titanium alloys, with different molybdenum contents in order to show the corrosion behavior in Ringer body simulated fluid. The samples were corrosion tested in three states, respectively non-treated state, annealed at 850°C/1 h and annealed at 1050°C/1 h.
Fabric Filter Performance of Helicopter Inlet Barrier Filters
Authors: Bojdo Nicholas , Filippone Antonio
Published: May 2012

An inlet barrier filter system is integrated into the intake of a helicopter to perform the task of removing potentially harmful particles from engine-bound air. While performing a vital duty in the prolonging of engine life, their use may incur a loss of engine performance as a result
of the pressure loss that is synonymous with air passing through a porous barrier. Furthermore, as particles collect on the filter they pose additional restriction to the flow of air, causing the pressure drop to increase over time. It is the objective of the present work to propose a low-order
model to predict this transient pressure loss, in order that the performance of helicopters operating with inlet barrier filters may be analyzed. The contribution includes a model to predict the temporal separation efficiency of a woven fabric filter and the temporal change in pressure drop
due to the buildup of particles on the filter.
Multiple bone and joint disease in a sickle cell anaemia patient: a case report
Authors: Olaniyi John Ayodele , Alagbe Adekunle E , Toluwalase Olutoogun O , Busari Olorunsogo E
Published: May 2012

Objective: To further highlight the fact that bone involvement is the commonest clinical manifestation of SCD both in the acute settins such painful VOC and as a source of chronic , progressive debility such as AVN, chronic osteomyelitis and fixed flexion deformity of joints.Protracted multiple bone involvement i.e. Bilateral femoral and left humeral chronic osteomyelitis, Left elbow, Left knee and right humeral septic arthritis together with aseptic necrosis of both femoral and right humeral heads, coupled with urinary tract infection((UTI) and decubitus ulcer in a young adult SCD patient at a stretch; is an unusual occurrence and deserves reporting and explanation. The determinant factors culminating in such heavy sepsis that resulted to an uninterrupted 29 weeks of hospital admission in this index patient, who had enjoyed fairly good health, deserves exploration.Various micro-organisms were sequentially cultured at various times and sites; these include E coli and Klebsiella in urine and klebsiella spp cultured in the aspirates of the affected knee joint, elbow joint and femoral osteomyelitis.Multidisciplinary approach was applied to her management and she was finally discharged home on a wheelchair. This case reflects not only the high susceptibility of SCD patients to infection, but also the morbidity and the attendant complications. It also highlights the need to forestall vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) which often predisposes them to developing osteomyelitis. There is a need to have a highly organized, well-equipped and highly subsidized Sickle Cell and rehabilitation Center in order to further improve the care of SCD patients.
Hypophosphatemic osteomalacia associated with tenofovir: a multidisciplinary approach is required.
Authors: De Socio Giuseppe Vittorio , Fabbriciani Gianluigi , Massarotti Marco , Messina Salvatore , Cecchini Enisia , Marasini Bianca
Published: May 2012

Tenofovir is widely used as first-line treatment of HIV infection, although its use is sometimes complicated by a reversible proximal renal tubulopathy. We report the case of a 45-year-old woman with chronic HIV infection and personality disorder, who after 12 months of tenofovir, complained of fatigue, diffuse bone pain and gait disturbances. The elevated level of alkaline phosphatase, hypophosphatemia and inappropriate phosphaturia suggested the diagnosis of hypophosphatemic osteomalacia secondary to proximal renal tubulopathy. A dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry showed a bone mineral density below the expected range for age (lumbar spine Z-score -3.3, femoral neck Z-score -2.1). A whole body 99mTc-methylene diphosphonate bone scan showed multiple areas of increased focal activity in the lumbar and thoracic spine and in sacroiliac and hip joints consistent with pseudo-fractures. Two months after tenofovir discontinuation and administration of vitamin D and phosphate, osteomalacia-related symptoms disappeared. Eleven months later, bone and mineral metabolism data were normal and bone scintigraphy did not show any pathological findings. This report highlights the importance of considering the diagnosis of osteomalacia in patients treated with tenofovir and emphasizes the need for monitoring alkaline phosphatase, blood and urinary phosphate and creatinine, especially in patients with risk factors for bone disease.
DIAGNOSTIC VALUE OF SIMULTANEOUS MEASUREMENT OF PROCALCITONIN, INTERLEUKIN-6 AND HS CRP IN PREDICTION OF EARLY-ONSET NEONATAL SEPSIS
Authors: Abdollahi Alireza , Shoar Saeed , Nayyeri Fatemeh , Shariat Mamak
Published: May 2012

Neonatal sepsis is a major cause of morbidities and mortalities mostly remarkable in the third world nations .We aimed to assess the value of simultaneous measurement of procalcitonin (PCT) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in association with high sensitive- C reactive protein in prediction of early neonatal sepsis.We performed a follow- up study on 95 neonates who were below 12 hours (h) of age, had clinical signs of sepsis or maternal risk factors for sepsis. Neonates were assigned to 4 groups including “proven early-onset sepsis”, “clinical early-onset sepsis”, “negative infectious status”, and “uncertain infectious status”. Blood samples were obtained within the first 12 h of birth repeated between 24 hours and 36 hours of age for determination of serum levels of PCT, IL-6, high sensitivie- C Reactive Protein (hs-CRP), and white blood cell (WBC) count.On admission, neonates with sepsis had a higher WBC count, IL-6, PCT, and hs-CRP levels compared with those neonates without sepsis. This remained significant even after 12-24 hours of admission. Also, patients with clinical evidences of sepsis had a higher serum level of PCT and IL-6 within 12-24 hours after admission compared to the patients with uncertain sepsis. In final The combination of IL-6, hs-CRP, and PCT seems to be predictive in diagnosis of early onset neonatal sepsis.
Fascioliasis: a not rare cause of hypereosinophilia in developing countries, present in developed too
Authors: Aktaş Gülali , Hakyemez İsmail Necati , Küçükbayrak Abdülkadir , Gürel Safiye , Taş Tekin
Published: May 2012

Fascioliasis, which is a worlwide parasitic zoonosis,endemic in south-est mediterranean areas, but uncommon in other areas. Clinical signs are usually non-specific. A 32 year old male patient was admitted to our hospital with complaints of abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, lost of apetite, itching, cough, night sweats and weight loss. Complete blood count revealed hypereosinophilia. The abdominal ultrasound scan was normal. But computed tomography scan revealed irregular nodular lesions in periportal area of the liver. Based on these clinical and radiological signs and continuous hypereosinophilia, the patient was serologically investigated for Fasciola hepatica infection. F. hepatica indirect hemagglutination test in serum was positive at a titer of 1/1280. Single dose Triclabendasole 10mg/kg was administered and repeated two weeks later. Clinical and laboratory signs were completely resolved after treatment.  Serological tests for fascioliasis should be included in all patients with  hypereosinophilia and abnormal liver CT.
Bone marrow involvement in a patient with alpha heavy chain disease:Response to tetracycline treatment
Authors: Bolaman Zahit , Yavasoglu Irfan , Sargin Gokhan , Kadikoylu Gurhan , Kacar Doger Firuzan
Published: May 2012

A 28-year-old man admitted with abdominal pain, weight loss and diarrhea. Barium x-ray studies showed segmentation, dilatation of bowel loops, mucosal folds thickening and delayed intestinal transit. Biopsy specimens histologically revelaed villous atrophy and plasmacytic infiltration limited to mucosa and submucosa. Computed tomography showed multiple lymphadenopathy in the abdomen. Serum protein electropheresis and immunoelectropheresis indicated elevated IgA concentration. Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy revealed presence of lymphoplasmacytic infiltration. Immunohistochemical analysis of the intestine, lymph node showed positivity for CD45, CD-79, CD-20.  After tetracycline treatment the patient’s symptoms, abdominal lymphadenopathy and bone marrow infiltration disappeared and IgA concentration was normalized.
Bortezomib a safety treatment for patients with Multiple Myeloma and Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Gentilini Fabiana , Levi Anna , Federico Vincenzo , Russo Eleonora , Foà Robin , Petrucci Maria Teresa
Published: May 2012

Introduction: Bortezomib is a proteasome inhibitor that targets myeloma cell and its bone marrow micro-environment. Intravenous Bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2 administered on days 1,4,8 and 11 of a 21 day cycle), with or without dexamethasone, is effective and well tolerated in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM).Methods:  We treated a MM patient with Cystic Fibrosis with Bortezomib alone to avoid the use of corticosteroid and consequently the risk of lung infection reactivations, first of all due to the patient Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization. Bortezomib was administrated at 1.3 mg/m2 on days 1,4,8 and 11 with a 10 day rest period  and four 21-day cycles were administered. We evaluate the treatment response and toxicity.Results: After four cycles of therapy the patient achieved a  very good partial response (VGPR) according to the IMWG response criteria, without clinically significant side effects.Conclusions: Bortezomib can be successfully utilized for the management of this difficult disease situation
Two chromatographic Methods for the Determination of some Antimigraine Drugs
Authors: El-Bagary Ramzia I. , Mohammed Nashwah G. , Nasr Heba A.
Published: May 2012

Two stability indicating chromatographic methods were proposed for the determination of almotriptan, eletriptan, and rizatriptan, in presence of their acid degradation products. The first method is a quantitative densitometric thin layer chromatography. The developing systems were; acetonitrile: methanol: dichloromethane: ammonia (10:6:3:1 v/v), ethyl acetate: methanol: ammonia (15:4:1 v/v), and methanol: acetonitrile: ammonia (9:4:1 v/v) for almotriptan, eletriptan and rizatriptan respectively. The TLC plates were scanned at 235 nm. Linear relationships were obtained over concentration ranges (5-50 μg/spot) for almotriptan and rizatriptan, and (5-60 μg/spot) for eletriptan. The second method based on the separation and determination of the studied drugs, using RP-HPLC technique. The separation was achieved on C18 Hypersil column, elution was carried out using phosphate buffer pH 3: methanol: acetonitrile (2: 1:1 v/v) at flow rate 2 mL/min and UV detection at 235 nm. Linear relationships were obtained over concentration ranges (10-200 μg/mL) for almotriptan and eletriptan, and (10-180 μg/mL) for rizatriptan. The chromatographic methods were successfully applied for the determination of each of the studied drugs in pure form, tablet form, and in laboratory prepared mixtures with their acid degradation products.
Morphoea Profunda Presenting with Atrophic Skin Lesions in a 26 Year Old Female: A Case Report
Authors: Giri Smith , Paudel Upama , Jha Abhimanyu , Gurung Dipendra , Parajuli Sudip
Published: May 2012

Morphoea Profunda is a rare variant of Morphoea that presents clinically as a solitary fibrotic plaque. Morphoea Profunda presenting with atrophic lesions has rarely been reported in literature. We report the case of a 26 year old Nepalese lady who presented to us with multiple non-inflammatory atrophic lesions on her body without significant skin induration, pigmentation and texture change. The findings on histopathology confirmed a diagnosis of Morphoea Profunda. Hence, Morphoea Profunda should be considered in the differential diagnosis of anyone presenting with asymptomatic atrophy of the skin.
A produção científica em periódicos institucionais: um estudo da revista biblos
Authors: Silveira João Paulo Borges
Published: May 2012

O presente artigo aborda a comunicação científica através da produção científica em periódicos institucionais, tendo por base um estudo da revista Biblos, periódico vinculado ao Instituto de Ciências Humanas e da Informação (ICHI) da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande (FURG). Para a pesquisa delimitou-se o período de circulação da revista entre 1978 e 2009, 31 anos de atividade, correspondendo a 32 fascículos e 392 artigos publicados. A pesquisa teve por objetivos traçar o perfil dos autores que publicaram artigos na referida revista e identificar as temáticas dos artigos publicados, seguindo as áreas do conhecimento estipuladas. O procedimento metodológico empregado foi a bibliometria, e a partir de seus resultados, os mesmos foram analisados sob um viés quantitativo e qualitativo. Dentre os resultados da pesquisa identificou-se que os autores com título de doutorado são maioria na revista, assim como os pesquisadores vinculados a FURG, sendo os autores com maior produtividade na revista são do quadro de docentes da universidade. Entre as áreas temáticas dos artigos, a História possui maioria absoluta de artigos publicados, com 67% do total, seguida da área das Ciências Sociais Aplicadas I, no qual se enquadra a área da Ciência da Informação.
A atualidade e utilidade da disseminação seletiva da informação e da tecnologia RSS
Authors: Cunha Murilo Bastos da , Eirão Thiago Gomes
Published: May 2012

O artigo apresenta os resultados obtidos na pesquisa realizada em bibliotecas de Tribunais em Brasília acerca da atualidade e utilidade da disseminação seletiva da informação (DSI) e da tecnologia RSS. A amostra foi constituída por bibliotecários que trabalhavam no serviço de referência de seis bibliotecas pertencentes a tribunais federais localizados em Brasília. Os resultados obtidos mostram que a DSI é um conceito válido e útil para a disseminação de conteúdos e que a tecnologia RSS ainda é desconhecida e não utilizada por essas bibliotecas.
The U.S. Government’s Social Cost of Carbon Estimates after Their First Two Years: Pathways for Improvement
Authors: Kopp Robert E. , Mignone Bryan K.
Published: May 2012

In 2010, the U.S. government adopted its first consistent estimates of the social cost of carbon (SCC) for government-wide use in regulatory cost-benefit analysis. Here, the authors examine a number of limitations of the estimates identified in the U.S. government report and elsewhere and review recent advances that could pave the way for improvements. The authors consider in turn socio-economic scenarios, treatment of physical climate response, damage estimates, ways of incorporating risk aversion, and consistency between SCC estimates and broader climate policy.
Gas transport in firn: multiple-tracer characterisation and model intercomparison for NEEM, Northern Greenland
Authors: Buizert C. , Martinerie P. , Petrenko V. V. , Severinghaus J. P. , Trudinger C. M. , Witrant E. , Rosen J. L. , Orsi A. J. , Rubino M. , Etheridge D. M. , Steele L. P. , Hogan C. , Laube J. C. , Sturges W. T. , Levchenko V. A. , Smith A. M. , Levin I. , Conway T. J. , Dlugokencky E. J. , Lang P. M. , Kawamura K. , Jenk T. M. , White J. W. C. , Sowers T. , Schwander J. , Blunier T.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. Air was sampled from the porous firn layer at the NEEM site in Northern Greenland. We use an ensemble of ten reference tracers of known atmospheric history to characterise the transport properties of the site. By analysing uncertainties in both data and the reference gas atmospheric histories, we can objectively assign weights to each of the gases used for the depth-diffusivity reconstruction. We define an objective root mean square criterion that is minimised in the model tuning procedure. Each tracer constrains the firn profile differently through its unique atmospheric history and free air diffusivity, making our multiple-tracer characterisation method a clear improvement over the commonly used single-tracer tuning. Six firn air transport models are tuned to the NEEM site; all models successfully reproduce the data within a 1σ Gaussian distribution. A comparison between two replicate boreholes drilled 64 m apart shows differences in measured mixing ratio profiles that exceed the experimental error. We find evidence that diffusivity does not vanish completely in the lock-in zone, as is commonly assumed. The ice age- gas age difference (Δage) at the firn-ice transition is calculated to be 182+3−9 yr. We further present the first intercomparison study of firn air models, where we introduce diagnostic scenarios designed to probe specific aspects of the model physics. Our results show that there are major differences in the way the models handle advective transport. Furthermore, diffusive fractionation of isotopes in the firn is poorly constrained by the models, which has consequences for attempts to reconstruct the isotopic composition of trace gases back in time using firn air and ice core records.
On the prediction of the auroral westward electrojet index
Authors: Amariutei O. A. , Ganushkina N. Yu.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. An ARMAX based model, to forecast the evolution of the of AL index, is developed. The model has been trained and validated using neural networks with the half wave rectifier (VBs) as input. It is shown that the model posses a good, reliable forecasting ability, including periods of intense geomagnetic activity. Prediction efficiency of the model is discussed in the context of 1 min resolution output smoothed over 7 min.
Nitrate leaching from short-hydroperiod floodplain soils
Authors: Huber B. , Luster J. , Bernasconi S. M. , Shrestha J. , Graf Pannatier E.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. Numerous studies have shown the importance of riparian zones to reduce nitrate (NO3–) contamination coming from adjacent agricultural land. Much less is known about nitrogen (N) transformations and nitrate fluxes in riparian soils with short hydroperiods (1–3 days of inundation) and there is no study that could show whether these soils are a N sink or source. Within a restored section of the Thur River in NE Switzerland, we measured nitrate concentrations in soil solutions as an indicator of the net nitrate production. Samples were collected along a quasi-successional gradient from frequently inundated gravel bars to an alluvial forest, at three different depths (10, 50 and 100 cm) over a one-year period. Along this gradient we quantified N input (atmospheric deposition and sedimentation) and N output (leaching) to create a nitrogen balance and assess the risk of nitrate leaching from the unsaturated soil to the groundwater. Overall, the main factor explaining the differences in nitrate concentrations was the variability in soil texture and volumetric water content (VWC) at field capacity (FC). In subsoils with high VWC at FC and VWC near 100 % FC, high nitrate concentrations were observed, often exceeding the Swiss and EU groundwater quality criterions of 400 and 800 μmol l−1, respectively. High sedimentation rates of river-derived nitrogen led to apparent N retention up to 200 kg N ha−1 yr−1 in the frequently inundated zones. By contrast, in the mature alluvial forest, nitrate leaching exceeded total N input most of the time. As a result of the large soil N pools, high amounts of nitrate were produced by nitrification and up to 94 kg N-NO3– ha−1 yr−1 were leached into the groundwater. Thus, during flooding when water fluxes are high, nitrate from soils can contribute up to 11 % to the total nitrate load in groundwater.
Twenty-one years of mass balance observations along the K-transect, West Greenland
Authors: van de Wal R. S. W. , Boot W. , Smeets C. J. P. P. , Snellen H. , van den Broeke M. R. , Oerlemans J.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. A 21-yr record is presented of surface mass balance measurements along the K-transect. The series covers the period 1990–2011. Data are available at 8 sites along a transect over an altitude range of 390–1850 m at approximately 67° N in West Greenland. The surface mass balance gradient is on average 3.8 × 10−3 m w.e. m−1, and the mean equilibrium line altitude is 1553 m a.s.l. Only the lower 3 sites within 10 km of the margin experience a significant increasing trend in the ablation over the entire period. Data are available at: http://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.779181.
A holistic model for coastal flooding using system diagrams and the Source-Pathway-Receptor (SPR) concept
Authors: Narayan S. , Hanson S. , Nicholls R. J. , Clarke D. , Willems P. , Ntegeka V. , Monbaliu J.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. Coastal flooding is a problem of increasing relevance in low-lying coastal regions worldwide. In addition to the anticipated increase in likelihood and magnitude of coastal floods due to climate change, there is rapid growth in coastal assets and infrastructure. Sustainable and integrated coastal flood management over large areas and varying coastline types cannot be simply treated as local combinations of flood defences and floodplains. Rather, a system level analysis of floodplains is required to structure the problem as a first step before applying quantitative models. In this paper such a model is developed using system diagrams and the Source-Pathway-Receptor (SPR) concept, to structure our understanding of large and complex coastal flood systems. A graphical systems model is proposed for the assessment of coastal flood systems with regard to individual elements and their topological relationships. Two examples are discussed – a unidirectional model for a large-scale flood system, and a multi-directional model for a smaller-scale system, both based on the Western Scheldt estuary. The models help to develop a comprehensive understanding of system elements and their relationships and provide a holistic overview of the coastal flood system. The approach shows that a system level analysis of floodplains is more effective than simple topographic maps when conveying complex information. The models are shown to be useful as an apriori approach for making the assumptions about flood mechanisms explicit and for informing inputs to numerical models.
Vapor flux and recrystallization during dry snow metamorphism under a steady temperature gradient as observed by time-lapse micro-tomography
Authors: Pinzer B. R. , Schneebeli M. , Kaempfer T. U.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. Dry snow metamorphism under an external temperature gradient is the most common type of recrystallization of snow on the ground. The changes in snow microstructure modify the physical properties of snow, and therefore an understanding of this process is essential for many disciplines, from modeling the effects of snow on climate to assessing avalanche risk. We directly imaged the microstructural changes in snow during metamorphism under a steady temperature gradient (STGM) of 50 K m−1, using in situ time-lapse X-ray micro-tomography. This novel and non-destructive technique directly reveals the amount of ice that sublimates and is deposited during metamorphism, and in addition the exact locations of these phase changes. From the four-dimensional data set, we calculated the average time that an ice volume stayed in place before it sublimated, and found a characteristic residence time of 2–3 days. This means that most of the ice changes its phase from solid to vapor and back many times in a seasonal snow pack, where similar temperature conditions can be found. Consistent with such a short timescale, we observed a mass turnover of up to 60 % of the total ice mass per day. The concept of hand-to-hand transport for the water vapor flux describes the observed changes very well. However, we did not find evidence for a macroscopic vapor diffusion enhancement. The picture of STGM that is produced by directly observing the microstructure of snow in situ sheds light on the micro-physical processes and could help to improve models that predict the physical properties of snow.
Quantitative Analysis of Anterior Chamber following Peripheral Laser Iridotomy using Pentacam in Eyes with Primary Angle Closure
Authors: Jain Rajeev , Grewal Dilraj , Singh Grewal Satinder Pal
Published: May 2012

Purpose.

To quantify the effects of laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) on peripheral anterior chamber depth (PACD), central internal anterior chamber depth (CACD), and anterior chamber volume (ACV) using Rotating Scheimpflug Imaging System, i.e., Pentacam, on Asian Indian eyes.

Methods.

This was an institutional, prospective, nonrandomized, interventional study. Sixty-eight eyes of 68 consecutive patients with primary angle closure were enrolled. Pentacam scanned the anterior ocular segment with the 25-image acquisition scan protocol and PACD, CACD, and ACV values were obtained. The PACD was measured in nasal, temporal, superior, and inferior meridian at 4 mm and 8 mm circles. Nd:YAG laser iridotomy was performed. Preiridotomy, immediate postiridotomy, 1 week and 1 month postiridotomy data for PACD, CACD, and ACV were acquired. The t test and repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and one-way ANOVA were used for statistical significance.

Results.

Pre-LPI ACV increased immediately after iridotomy (28.4 mm3; p≤0.001), at 1 week (15.9 mm3; p≤0.001), and at 1 month post-LPI (19.8 mm3; p=0.00). There was no change in CACD (p>0.05). Significant PACD deepening was observed at 4 mm and 8 mm in all meridians (p<0.001) at all visits.

Conclusions.

Laser peripheral iridotomy significantly increased the PACD and ACV. Extent of the LPI-induced PACD increase was enhanced with increasing distance from the optical axis.