bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review and Remediation of a Code Non-Compliance Incident: Lessons Learned
Authors: Aumuller John J. , Xia Zihui , Carucci Vincent A.
Published: July 2013

The ASME Codes address the needs of industry and the public for the construction of safe equipment for pressure containment. The two basic philosophies underlying the requirements of the ASME VIII sections are “rules based” design versus “design by analysis”.

Code contributors have written extensively on the need for Code users to apply common sense when using the Code. This message is often lost in the confusion when atypical mechanical design details have been intentionally or inadvertently used. Those atypical design details that can be identified during the review process can be easily resolved; details that are discovered after construction completion and, worse yet, just prior to operation can be devastating to a project. The Code places emphasis on education, experience and the use of engineering judgment but, these can never be used to overrule mandatory requirements or specific prohibitions of the Code.

A specific incident is reviewed wherein the regulatory authority of the jurisdiction intervened and de-registered a vessel design due to Code non-compliance. Although the deficient detail was thought to be better, based on consideration of engineering principles, than the detail strictly meeting Code requirements, the as-constructed detail was rejected by the regulatory authority. Extensive field rework ensued to modify the detail to conform to Code, and of course the costs were very high. This paper reviews the engineering issues, illustrates the motivation for the Code requirements, and serves as a reminder to Code users to be vigilant in the details of Code construction.
Application of Gurson Model to Ni-Based Alloy Weld Joint Pipe With an Axial or a Circumferential Surface Flaw
Authors: Hojo Kiminobu , Ogawa Naoki
Published: July 2013

The previous paper[1] reported the fracture test results using pipe models (8B and 14B for bending) with an alloy 132 weld joint at room temperature and high temperature (325degC). The predicted loads by limit load evaluation method of the pipes at 325 deg C (8B and 14B) and at room temperature (8B) with the initial surface flaw whose depth is 75% of the pipe thickness were in good agreement with the maximum test loads. However 14B pipe at room temperature, the predicted load has 20% unconservative difference from the measured data.

To predict the different fracture behavior or fracture mode of the same welding material at a flaw location with different flaw or model geometry by numerical procedure without large sized test model, Gurson model[2] was applied on trial to the two types of the pipe models with a circumferential or an axial flaw and one plate model for simplification for the case of the pipe with an axial flaw. As a result the plate model predicted the penetration pressure of the pressure test of the pipe with an axial flaw with 1.3times larger than the test result, while the pipe model with an axial flaw over-predicted the test result by 1.45 times. On the other hand the maximum load around crack penetration of the pipe model with a circumferential flaw was 0.9 times of the test results. Discussions for application of Gurson model were made.
Alternative Acceptance Criteria for Flaws in Ferritic Steel Components Operating in the Upper Shelf Temperature Range
Authors: Gustin H. L. , Cipolla R. C. , Xu S. X. , Scarth D. A.
Published: July 2013

The flaw evaluation rules for ferritic vessels in IWB-3610, IWB-3620 and Appendix A of ASME Section XI are based on linear elastic fracture mechanics techniques and were developed primarily for the irradiated reactor pressure vessel beltline region and other low temperature carbon and low-alloy steel applications in which the material exhibits limited or no ductility prior to failure. There are situations in which ferritic steel components operate in the upper shelf temperature range and therefore exhibit significant ductility and increased flaw tolerance. Application of linear elastic fracture mechanics techniques to these cases can be very conservative. In order to address flaw evaluation of ferritic materials exhibiting upper shelf toughness and high ductility, the proposed Code Case N-749 of ASME Section XI was developed and is currently under committee review. This proposed Code Case provides alternate acceptance criteria for situations in which the component is operating in the upper shelf temperature range and therefore has adequate ductility to allow the use of elastic-plastic fracture mechanics techniques.
Design of a New Bearing on the Large Net Shell Roof Tank
Authors: Chen Zhiping , Gao Huan , Guo Wenjing , Chen Fucai , Wang Ji , Hong Weirong
Published: July 2013

The structure of the plate rib roof can’t meet the need of the constantly enlarging storage tanks, thus more steel/aluminum net shell roofs have been used on the large storage tanks. The bearing between the roof and the tank wall is a key component, because it directly affects the strength and stability of the net shell roof. In this paper, a new type of net shell roof bearing structure is proposed in order to relieve the stress on the bearing and the net shell roof. The proposed structure has several features compared with the existing bearings: the net shell roof with the new bearing can allow a certain amount of radial displacement, and the bearing can also rotate within a certain angle. According to the actual loading status, strength and stability analysis of the overall net shell roof and the bearing’s partial structure are carried out respectively. The overall model of the net shell roof is established by ANSYS, and different boundary conditions are defined on the roof under two working conditions of “full-span live load” and “half-span live load”. Then the overall static strength calculation and stability analysis of the roof are completed. Based on the results of the overall analysis, the strength of the bearing’s partial model is analyzed in ANSYS Workbench. Research shows that when the net shell roof is under load, the roof is allowed to make radial displacement and the bearing to make angular displacement. Thus the burden on the bearing and the net shell roof is relieved, and the strength and stability of the overall roof meet the requirements. Moreover, many regions of the bearing can share the horizontal force, which helps to reduce the load on the bolts and improve the safety of the bearing structure. And the strength of the bearing meets the requirements.
The Case for Equality, Bringing Bolted Joint Management in Line With Welded Joint Management: Trends in European Standards
Authors: Noble Robert
Published: July 2013

The bolted joint by its simple nature, can be tightened by anyone who can lift a spanner. This has led over the years to a lack of respect and the acceptance of un-managed assembly and tightening. The results have been lack of control over the key goal — a joint that performs reliably and safely in service. ASME has recently updated a number of key standards such as PCC-1-2010 [1] and a parallel initiative is ongoing in Europe [2]. Both have the same end goal to recognize the importance and need for careful control and diligent application of standards for bolted joints on critical pressurized systems. The paper will compare the developments in Europe with those in ASME and state the case for continued development and application of standards to reduce the level of leakage and failures associated with bolted flanged joints. Under Europe Safety Directives there is a growing recognition that the Pressure Equipment Directive [3] does not treat the bolted joint equally with the Welded joint this anomaly will be explained in the paper.
Shakedown at Thermal Discontinuities Involving Thermal Membrane and Thermal Bending Stress
Authors: Asadkarami Ali , Reinhardt Wolf
Published: July 2013

The current ASME Code Section III NB-3200 rules on thermal stress ratchet require that the thermal stress must be less than the ratchet condition that Bree established for a cyclic pure thermal bending stress as a function of the level of primary membrane stress. It has been shown that this method can predict shakedown when elastic-perfectly plastic analysis shows ratcheting. However, there is also conservatism in the Code rules because the highest stresses that dominate the evaluation of a component are typically found at discontinuities, where there is a stress gradient at least in the axial direction. The stress limits, on the other hand, are based on stress distributions that are constant in the axial (and circumferential) direction.

This paper investigates the effect of thermal discontinuities on the shakedown limit in the presence of a thermal through-wall gradient and a pressure-induced primary stress. The investigation is based on the simple model of a cylinder with an isolated thermal discontinuity. The effect of proximity to another discontinuity is explored, to obtain the minimum distance between two discontinuities that would allow them to be considered separately. Simple rules are developed and proposed to take potentially advantage of higher stress limits at an isolated discontinuity.
Asperger syndrome and anxiety disorders (PAsSA) treatment trial: a study protocol of a pilot, multicentre, single-blind, randomised crossover trial of group cognitive behavioural therapy
Authors: Langdon Peter E , Murphy Glynis H , Wilson Edward , Shepstone Lee , Fowler David , Heavens David , Malovic Aida , Russell Alexandra
Published: July 2013

Introduction

A number of studies have established that children, adolescents and adults with Asperger syndrome (AS) and high functioning autism (HFA) have significant problems with anxiety. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for anxiety in a variety of clinical populations. There is a growing interest in exploring the effectiveness of CBT for people with AS who have mental health problems, but currently there are no known clinical trials involving adults with AS or HFA. Studies with children who have AS have reported some success. The current study aims to examine whether modified group CBT for clinically significant anxiety in an AS population is likely to be efficacious.

Methods and analysis

This study is a randomised, single-blind crossover trial. At least 36 individuals will be recruited and randomised into a treatment arm or a waiting-list control arm. During treatment, individuals will receive 3 sessions of individual CBT, followed by 21 sessions of group CBT. Primary outcome measures focus on anxiety. Secondary outcome measures focus on everyday social and psychiatric functioning, additional measures of anxiety and fear, depression, health-related quality of life and treatment cost. Assessments will be administered at pregroup and postgroup and at follow-up by researchers who are blinded to group allocation. The trial aims to find out whether or not psychological treatments for anxiety can be adapted and used to successfully treat the anxiety experienced by people with AS. Furthermore, we aim to determine whether this intervention represents good value for money.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial received a favourable ethical opinion from a National Health Service (NHS) Research Ethics Committee. All participants provided written informed consent. Findings will be shared with all trial participants, and the general public, as well as the scientific community.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN 30265294 (DOI: 10.1186/ISRCTN30265294), UKCRN 8370.
The use and meanings of ‘time of wetness’ in understanding building stone decay
Authors: McCabe S. , Brimblecombe P. , Smith B. J. , McAllister D. , Srinivasan S. , Basheer P. A. M.
Published: July 2013

Moisture is a well-documented, and crucial, control on the nature of stone decay. The term ‘time of wetness’ has frequently been adopted to describe how long a stone block is wet, with a view to understanding the impact of this on decay processes. Although this term has proved conceptually useful, it has been used in different ways, by different groups to mean very different things. For example, the time of wetness for a stone block surface (the traditional understanding) may be very different from that of a block interior, controlled by the different dynamics of wetting and drying in those zones. Thus, surface wetting will occur regularly (sometimes swiftly followed by drying, depending on the time of year), with block interior wetting requiring the accumulation of surface moisture to penetrate to depth (more likely in autumn and winter months), and drying out much more slowly. This relatively new but important perspective, framed in the context of climate change, is crucial to understanding the length of time stone may remain damp at depth following a period of prolonged precipitation. The nature and speed of drying is also relevant in quantifying time of wetness of both surfaces and the interior of building stones. These ideas related to time of wetness have implications for decay processes, specifically how a prolonged time of deep wetness may re-focus the emphasis of salt weathering in natural building stones toward chemical action. Literature on chemical change is discussed, suggesting that chemical change occurring during periods of prolonged wetness is likely to be significant in itself, with implications for weakening the stone (in terms of, for example, cement dissolution or grain boundary weakening) and exacerbating physical damage from salt crystallization when blocks finally dry out.
Recording natural stones on façades as a tool to assess their utilization and functional aspects over time
Authors: Siedel Heiner
Published: July 2013

Building stones utilized on façades in the city centres of the three largest cities in the Free State of Saxony (Germany), Dresden, Leipzig, and Chemnitz, were recorded for a comparative study and related to the age of the buildings and to their use for distinct building elements. The cities show different patterns of stone utilization according to their geological background and historical development. Local building stones quarried nearby dominate until the middle of the 19th century, when the development of industries and infrastructure started to facilitate the delivery of a greater number of stone varieties from further afield. The use of natural stone for certain construction elements on buildings has been controlled not only by functional aspects and appropriate technical properties but also by fashion, the economic background, and political restrictions. Additional recording of the weathering state of different types of building stones after long-term exposure allows a comparative assessment, thus giving useful hints on their long-term behaviour and durability.
Southern Ocean bioproductivity during the last glacial cycle – new detection method and decadal-scale insight from the Scotia Sea
Authors: Sprenk D. , Weber M. E. , Kuhn G. , Rosén P. , Frank M. , Molina-Kescher M. , Liebetrau V. , Röhling H.-G.
Published: July 2013

We present biogenic opal flux records from two deep-sea sites in the Scotia Sea (MD07-3133 and MD07-3134) at decadal-scale resolution, covering the last glacial cycle. In addition to conventional and time-consuming biogenic opal measuring methods, we introduce new biogenic opal estimation methods derived from sediment colour
b
*, wet bulk density, Si/Ti-count ratio and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIRS). All methods capture the biogenic opal amplitude; however, FTIRS–a novel method for marine sediment – yields the most reliable results.
230
Th normalization data show strong differences in sediment focusing with intensified sediment focusing during glacial times. At MD07-3134
230
Th normalized biogenic opal fluxes vary between 0.2 and 2.5 g cm
−2
kyr
−1
. Our biogenic opal flux records indicate bioproductivity changes in the Southern Ocean, strongly influenced by sea ice distribution and also summer sea surface temperature changes. South of the Antarctic Polar Front, lowest bioproductivity occurred during the Last Glacial Maximum when upwelling of mid-depth water was reduced and sea ice cover intensified. Around 17 ka, bioproductivity increased abruptly, corresponding to rising atmospheric CO
2
and decreasing seasonal sea ice coverage.
LiDAR-based digital outcrops for sedimentological analysis: workflows and techniques
Authors: Rarity F. , van Lanen X. M. T. , Hodgetts D. , Gawthorpe R. L. , Wilson P. , Fabuel-Perez I. , Redfern J.
Published: July 2013

Recent developments in workflows and techniques for the integration and analysis of terrestrial LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) and conventional outcrop datasets are demonstrated through three case studies. The first study shows the power of three-dimensional (3D) data visualization, in association with an innovative surface-modelling technique, for establishing large-scale 3D stratigraphical frameworks. The second presents an approach to derive reliable geometrical data on sediment-body geometries, whereas the third presents a new technique to quantify the proportions, distributions and variability of sedimentary facies directly from outcrop. In combination, these techniques provide essential conditioning data for geocellular and stochastic facies modelling. Built upon robust, reproducible and quantitative data, the resultant models combine realistic 3D geological architectures with sufficient quantities of reliable numerical data required for stable statistical analysis and establishing uncertainty. Together this new information provides detailed understanding and quantification of the 3D complexity of the sedimentary systems in question, thus offering insights of value for predicting the subsurface anatomy of analogous petroleum systems. As such, use of LiDAR, when combined with conventional field geology, offers a powerful tool for quantitative outcrop analysis, tightly constraining 3D structural and stratigraphical interpretations, and effectively increasing the statistical significance of outcrop analogues for reservoir characterization.
Biochemical and Pharmacological Characterization of TLBbar, a New Serine Protease with Coagulant Activity fromBothrops barnettiSnake Venom
Authors: Brousett-Minaya Magaly Alejandra , Baldasso Paulo Aparecido , Huancahuire-Vega Salomón , Marangoni Sérgio
Published: July 2013

A thrombin-like enzyme named TLBbar was isolated fromBothrops barnettisnake venom and its biochemical and pharmacological characteristics were determined. TLBbar was purified using size exclusion chromatography and reverse phase HPLC, showing molecular mass of 28750.7 Da determined by mass spectrometry. TLBbar serine protease is basic (pI 7.4) and its structure shows similarity with other serine proteases of snake venom. Optimal proteolytic activity was at 37°C and pH 8; this activity was strongly inhibited by PMSF and Leupeptin, however; heparin, and soybean trypsin inhibitor (SBT-I) were ineffective. Kinetic studies on BApNA chromogenic substrate have revealed that TLBbar presents a Michaelis-Menten kinetics, with values ofKmandVmaxof 0.433 mM and 0.42 nmol/min, respectively. TLBbar showed high clotting activity upon bovine and human plasma, presenting IC of 125 and minimum dose coagulant (MDC) of 2.23 μg/μL. TLBbar cleavages the Aαchain of bovine fibrinogen, with maximal efficiency at 30–40°C in the presence of calcium after two hours incubation; this fibronogenolityc activity was inhibited by PMSF and Leupeptin, confirming its classification in the group of serine proteases. In addition, TLBbar is capable of aggregating platelets in the same way that thrombin in concentrations of 2.5 μg/μL.
Outcome of Acute Renal Injury in Diabetic Mice with Experimental Endotoxemia: Role of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α
Authors: Ortega A. , Fernández A. , Arenas M. I. , López-Luna P. , Muñóz-Moreno C. , Arribas I. , Olea N. , García-Bermejo L. , Lucio-Cazana J. , Bosch R. J.
Published: July 2013

The role of diabetic nephropathy in the outcome of acute renal injury (AKI) is not well defined. Herein we evaluate the outcome of lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced AKI in streptozotocin-induced diabetes, as well as the potential role of Hypoxia Inducible Factor (HIF-1α) in this condition. Although 6 h after LPS injection all mice developed a decrease in renal function, proteinuric diabetic mice showed a better recovery of this parameter throughout the study (72 h). Both HIF-1αand vascular endothelium growth factor (VEGF) were found to be upregulated in diabetic mice. After LPS injection, all animals showed an upregulation of these factors, although it was higher in the diabetic group. Glycated albumin (GA) was found to upregulate HIF-1αin HK-2 cells, which resulted in increased production of VEGF. Interestingly, LPS cooperated with GA to induce HIF-1αupregulation. In conclusion, diabetic mice display a better recovery of AKI after experimental endotoxemia. Moreover, these animals showed an increased expression of both HIF-1αand VEGF that was reproduced by incubating renal cells with GA. Since VEGF is considered a survival factor for tubular cells, our findings suggest that diabetes displays HIF-1αupregulation that might function as a “precondition state” offering protection from endotoxic AKI.
The Efficacy of Allergen Immunotherapy with Cat Dander in Reducing Symptoms in Clinical Practice
Authors: Williams Aerik A. , Cohn John R. , Fung Shirley M. , Padams Patricia
Published: July 2013

Background. Allergy to cat dander is a common form of allergic disease. Allergen immunotherapy has been demonstrated to be effective in decreasing allergic symptoms.Objectives. To examine outcomes in allergic asthmatic patients on cat immunotherapy (CIT) compared to allergic asthmatics on traditional immunotherapy (IT) without cat sensitivity.Methods. A retrospective review identified allergic asthmatics on CIT for at least three years. An equal number of allergic asthmatics on IT were identified for comparison. Outcomes investigated include measurements of risk of asthma exacerbation.Results. Thirty-five patients were identified in each group. There were no differences in the CIT group versus the comparison group regarding total number of prednisone tapers (18 tapers versus 14 tapers, resp.), number of patients requiring prednisone tapers (10 patients versus 10 patients, resp.), total number of acute visits (29 visits versus 38 visits, resp.), and number of patients requiring acute visits (15 patients versus 21 patients, resp.). When stratified by concomitant ICS use, patients on CIT were less likely to require an acute visit (46% versus 78%, resp.).Conclusions. Allergic asthmatics with cat sensitivity on CIT with close dander exposure have similar risk of asthma exacerbation compared to allergic asthmatics without cat sensitivity on immunotherapy.
Asymmetry of the Active Site Loop Conformation between Subunits of Glutamate-1-semialdehyde Aminomutase in Solution
Authors: Campanini Barbara , Bettati Stefano , di Salvo Martino Luigi , Mozzarelli Andrea , Contestabile Roberto
Published: July 2013

Glutamate-1-semialdehyde aminomutase (GSAM) is a dimeric, pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP)- dependent enzyme catalysing in plants and some bacteria the isomerization of L-glutamate-1-semialdehyde to 5-aminolevulinate, a common precursor of chlorophyll, haem, coenzyme B12, and other tetrapyrrolic compounds. During the catalytic cycle, the coenzyme undergoes conversion from pyridoxamine 5′-phosphate (PMP) to PLP. The entrance of the catalytic site is protected by a loop that is believed to switch from an open to a closed conformation during catalysis. Crystallographic studies indicated that the structure of the mobile loop is related to the form of the cofactor bound to the active site, allowing for asymmetry within the dimer. Since no information on structural and functional asymmetry of the enzyme in solution is available in the literature, we investigated the active site accessibility by determining the cofactor fluorescence quenching of PMP- and PLP-GSAM forms. PLP-GSAM is partially quenched by potassium iodide, suggesting that at least one catalytic site is accessible to the anionic quencher and therefore confirming the asymmetry observed in the crystal structure. Iodide induces release of the cofactor from PMP-GSAM, apparently from only one catalytic site, therefore suggesting an asymmetry also in this form of the enzyme in solution, in contrast with the crystallographic data.
Successful Obliteration of a Pseudoaneurysm from Post-CEA Repair Secondary to a Pruitt-Inahara Shunt Using a Stent Graft
Authors: Dahya Vishal , Chalasani Prasad
Published: July 2013

Pseudoaneurysms of the carotid artery are very uncommon complications following carotid endarterectomy. Pseudoaneurysms are usually caused by any kind of blunt injury or trauma during carotid artery surgery. CEA has become an increasingly more common vascular surgery performed in the United States. The standard of treatment for a carotid PA has been open surgical repair with excision of the defect and then a graft reconstruction of the artery. Advancements in endovascular intervention have helped to make it a more popular choice in treatment because of the positive results and less invasive approach. This case report describes the successful obliteration of a large post-CEA PA using a stent graft. The PA was likely secondary to the use of a Pruitt-lnahara Shunt because it was found to be distal to the endarterectomized area of the carotid artery which means that the defect was likely caused by the balloon portion of the shunt. This case demonstrates the feasibility of using endovascular interventional techniques to treat a PA using a stent graft.
Enrichment, Development, and Assessment of Indian Basil Oil Based Antiseptic Cream Formulation Utilizing Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance Approach
Authors: Yadav Narayan Prasad , Meher Jaya Gopal , Pandey Neelam , Luqman Suaib , Yadav Kuldeep Singh , Chanda Debabrata
Published: July 2013

The present work was aimed to develop an antiseptic cream formulation of Indian basil oil utilizing hydrophilic-lipophilic balance approach. In order to determine the required-hydrophilic lipophilic balance (rHLB) of basil oil, emulsions of basil oil were prepared by phase inversion temperature technique using water, Tween 80, and Span 80. Formulated emulsions were assessed for creaming (BE9; 9.8, BE10; 10.2), droplet size (BE18; 3.22 ± 0.09 μm), and turbidity (BE18; 86.12 ± 2.1%). To ensure correctness of the applied methodology, rHLB of light liquid paraffin was also determined. After rHLB determination, basil oil creams were prepared with two different combinations of surfactants, namely, GMS : Tween 80 (1 : 3.45) and SLS : GMS (1 : 3.68), and evaluated forin vitroantimicrobial activity, skin irritation test, viscosity and consistency. The rHLB of basil oil and light liquid paraffin were found to be 13.36 ± 0.36 and 11.5 ± 0.35, respectively. Viscosity, and consistency parameters of cream was found to be consistent over 90 days. Cream formulations showed net zone of growth inhibition in the range of 5.0–11.3 mm against bacteria and 4.3–7.6 mm against fungi. Primary irritation index was found to be between 0.38 and1.05. Conclusively stable, consistent, non-irritant, enriched antiseptic basil oil cream formulations were developed utilizing HLB approach.
Can Medical Herbs Stimulate Regeneration or Neuroprotection and Treat Neuropathic Pain in Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy?
Authors: Schröder Sven , Beckmann Kathrin , Franconi Giovanna , Meyer-Hamme Gesa , Friedemann Thomas , Greten Henry Johannes , Rostock Matthias , Efferth Thomas
Published: July 2013

Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy (CIPN) has a relevant impact on the quality of life of cancer patients. There are no curative conventional treatments, so further options have to be investigated. We conducted a systematic review in English and Chinese language databases to illuminate the role of medical herbs. 26 relevant studies on 5 single herbs, one extract, one receptor-agonist, and 8 combinations of herbs were identified focusing on the single herbsAcorus calamus rhizoma,Cannabis sativa fructus,Chamomilla matricaria,Ginkgo biloba,Salvia officinalis,Sweet bee venom,Fritillaria cirrhosae bulbus,and the herbal combinations Bu Yang Huan Wu, modified Bu Yang Huan Wu plus Liuwei Di Huang, modified Chai Hu Long Gu Mu Li Wan,Geranii herbaplusAconiti lateralis praeparata radix, Niu Che Sen Qi Wan (Goshajinkigan), Gui Zhi Jia Shu Fu Tang (Keishikajutsubuto), Huang Qi Wu Wu Tang (Ogikeishigomotsuto), and Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang(Shakuyakukanzoto). The knowledge of mechanism of action is still limited, the quality of clinical trials needs further improvement, and studies have not yielded enough evidence to establish a standard practice, but a lot of promising substances have been identified. While CIPN has multiple mechanisms of neuronal degeneration, a combination of herbs or substances might deal with multiple targets for the aim of neuroprotection or neuroregeneration in CIPN.
Multiobjective Optimization Design of Spinal Pedicle Screws Using Neural Networks and Genetic Algorithm: Mathematical Models and Mechanical Validation
Authors: Amaritsakul Yongyut , Chao Ching-Kong , Lin Jinn
Published: July 2013

Short-segment instrumentation for spine fractures is threatened byrelatively highfailure rates. Failure of the spinal pedicle screws including breakage and loosening may jeopardize the fixation integrity and lead to treatment failure. Two important design objectives, bending strength and pullout strength, may conflict with each other and warrant a multiobjective optimization study. In the present study using the three-dimensional finite element (FE) analytical results based on an L25orthogonal array, bending and pullout objective functions were developed by an artificial neural network (ANN) algorithm, and the trade-off solutions known as Pareto optima were explored by a genetic algorithm (GA). The results showed that the knee solutions of the Pareto fronts with both high bending and pullout strength ranged from 92% to 94% of their maxima, respectively. In mechanical validation, the results of mathematical analyses were closely related to those of experimental tests with a correlation coefficient of −0.91 for bending and 0.93 for pullout (P<0.01for both). The optimal design had significantly higher fatigue life (P<0.01) and comparable pullout strength as compared with commercial screws. Multiobjective optimization study of spinal pedicle screws using the hybrid of ANN and GA could achieve an ideal with high bending and pullout performances simultaneously.
Optimum Barrier Height for SiC Schottky Barrier Diode
Authors: Hafez Alaa El-Din Sayed , Abd El-Latif Mohamed
Published: July 2013

The study of barrier height control and optimization for Schottky barrier diode (SBD) from its physical parameters have been introduced using particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. SBD is the rectifying barrier for electrical conduction across the metal semiconductor (MS) junction and, therefore, is of vital importance to the successful operation of any semiconductor device. 4H-SiC is used as a semiconductor material for its good electrical characteristics with high-power semiconductor devices applications. Six physical parameters are considered during the optimization process, that is, device metal, mobile charge density, fixed oxide charge density, interface trapped charge density, oxide thickness, and voltage drop across the metal-semiconductor contact. The optimization process was performed using a MATLAB program. The results show that the SBD barrier height has been optimized to achieve a maximum or minimum barrier height across the contact, in addition to the ability of controlling the physical parameters to adjust the device barrier height.
Parametric Optimization of Nd:YAG Laser Beam Machining Process Using Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm
Authors: Mukherjee Rajarshi , Goswami Debkalpa , Chakraborty Shankar
Published: July 2013

Nd:YAG laser beam machining (LBM) process has a great potential to manufacture intricate shaped microproducts with its unique characteristics. In practical applications, such as drilling, grooving, cutting, or scribing, the optimal combination of Nd:YAG LBM process parameters needs to be sought out to provide the desired machining performance. Several mathematical techniques, like Taguchi method, desirability function, grey relational analysis, and genetic algorithm, have already been applied for parametric optimization of Nd:YAG LBM processes, but in most of the cases, suboptimal or near optimal solutions have been reached. This paper focuses on the application of artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm to determine the optimal Nd:YAG LBM process parameters while considering both single and multiobjective optimization of the responses. A comparative study with other population-based algorithms, like genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimization, and ant colony optimization algorithm, proves the global applicability and acceptability of ABC algorithm for parametric optimization. In this algorithm, exchange of information amongst the onlooker bees minimizes the search iteration for the global optimal and avoids generation of suboptimal solutions. The results of two sample paired t-tests also demonstrate its superiority over the other optimization algorithms.
Development and Validation of a RP‐HPLC Method for Determination of Nimodipine in Sustained Release Tablets
Authors: Shang Xiaojun , Ma Suying , Li Zheshen
Published: July 2013

A rapid, sensitive, and reproducible reverse phase high performance liquid chromatographic (RP‐HPLC) method with UV detector for the determination of nimodipine in sustained release tablets was developed. The method involved using a SinoChoom ODS‐BP C18 reversed phase column (5 μm, 4.6 mm × 200 mm) and mobile phase consisting of methanol‐acetonitrile‐water (35 : 38 : 27, v/v). The flow rate is 1.0 mL/min, the UV detector was operated at 237 nm, and the column was maintained at 25°C. The method was validated according to official compendia guidelines. The calibration curve of nimodipine for RP‐HPLC method was linear over the range of 10–100 μg/mL. The retention time was found at 7.50 min for nimodipine. The variation for interday and intraday assay was found to be less than 0.72%. The proposed RP‐HPLC was proved to be suitable for the determination of nimodipine in sustained release tablets.
Spa Treatment (Balneotherapy) for Fibromyalgia—A Qualitative-Narrative Review and a Historical Perspective
Authors: Ablin Jacob N. , Häuser Winfried , Buskila Dan
Published: July 2013

Aim. To perform a narrative review of spa therapy for management of the fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), evaluating this traditional time-honored form of therapy in a historical perspective. Methods. Medline was searched using the terms “Spa therapy,” “Balneotherapy,” and “Fibromyalgia” between 1990 (year of ACR fibromyalgia criteria publication) and April 2013. The Cochrane database was also searched. Publications relating to the implementation of spa therapy and related practices over the centuries were identified through references, searched, and reviewed.Results. Reports of balneotherapy were described from diverse locations throughout Europe and Asia, and various forms of water-related therapy have been incorporated for many musculoskeletal indications. In the management of FMS, spa therapy has generally been shown to be well accepted and moderately effective for symptom reduction.Conclusion. While achieving high-quality evidence-based conclusions is difficult for complex natural therapies such as spa therapy, the existing evidence indicates a positive effect in management of FMS. In view of the long history of this modality in the management of rheumatic pain as well as the inherent difficulties related to pharmacological treatment, the role of spa therapy should currently be recognized as part of a therapeutic program for FMS.
Chemical Separation of Fixed Tissue Using Thermolysin
Authors: Dua Anahita , Desai Sapan S.
Published: July 2013

Thermolysin is a metallopeptidase used to cleave peptide bonds at specific junctions. It has previously been used to cleave specific amino acid sequences found at the junction of the sensory epithelium and underlying stroma of unfixed otolithic organs of the vestibular system. We have used thermolysin to separate sensory epithelium from the underlying stroma in fixed cristae ampullares of mouse, rat, gerbil, guinea pig, chinchilla, and tree squirrel, thus removing the saddle-shaped curvature of the sensory organ and creating a flattened sensory epithelium preparation. This permits visualization of the entire sensory organ in a single mount and facilitates proper morphometric analysis.
Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis Causing an Acute Scoliosis
Authors: Armstrong Alexander , Upadhyay Neil , Saxby Edward , Pryce Damian , Steele Nick
Published: July 2013

Study Design. A Case Report.Objective. We present a 15-year-old girl with an acute atypical scoliosis secondary to chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO).Summary of Background Data. CRMO is a rare nonpyogenic inflammatory bone condition with unclear aetiology. CRMO mainly affects the metaphyses of long bones, the pelvis, shoulder girdle, and less commonly the spine.Methods. Our case presented with a 6-month history of worsening thoracic back pain, asymmetry of her shoulders and abnormal posture. Whole spine radiographs revealed a right atypical thoracic scoliosis. Magnetic Resonance Imaging showed abnormal signal on the short TI inversion recovery (STIR) sequences in multiple vertebrae. A bone biopsy demonstrated evidence of fibrosis and chronic inflammatory changes. Interval MRI scans revealed new oedematous lesions and disappearance of old lesions. Symptoms improved.Results. It is important to consider CRMO as an acute cause of atypical scoliosis. Malignancy, pyogenic infections and atypical presentations of juvenile arthritis need excluding.Conclusion. This 24-month follow-up describes a rare cause of an atypical scoliosis and fortifies the small amount of the currently available literature. The case highlights the relapsing and remitting nature of CRMO with new lesions developing and older lesions burning out. We advise close radiological surveillance and symptomatic management.
Navigating Traditional Chinese Medicine Network Pharmacology and Computational Tools
Authors: Yang Ming , Chen Jia-Lei , Xu Li-Wen , Ji Guang
Published: July 2013

The concept of “network target” has ushered in a new era in the field of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). As a new research approach, network pharmacology is based on the analysis of network models and systems biology. Taking advantage of advancements in systems biology, a high degree of integration data analysis strategy and interpretable visualization provides deeper insights into the underlying mechanisms of TCM theories, including the principles of herb combination, biological foundations of herb or herbal formulae action, and molecular basis of TCM syndromes. In this study, we review several recent developments in TCM network pharmacology research and discuss their potential for bridging the gap between traditional and modern medicine. We briefly summarize the two main functional applications of TCM network models: understanding/uncovering and predicting/discovering. In particular, we focus on how TCM network pharmacology research is conducted and highlight different computational tools, such as network-based and machine learning algorithms, and sources that have been proposed and applied to the different steps involved in the research process. To make network pharmacology research commonplace, some basic network definitions and analysis methods are presented.
A Very Compact AES-SPIHT Selective Encryption Computer Architecture Design with Improved S-Box
Authors: Kong Jia Hao , Ang Li-Minn , Seng Kah Phooi
Published: July 2013

The “S-box” algorithm is a key component in the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) due to its nonlinear property. Various implementation approaches have been researched and discussed meeting stringent application goals (such as low power, high throughput, low area), but the ultimate goal for many researchers is to find a compact and small hardware footprint for the S-box circuit. In this paper, we present our version of minimized S-box with two separate proposals and improvements in the overall gate count. The compact S-box is adopted with a compact and optimum processor architecture specifically tailored for the AES, namely, the compact instruction set architecture (CISA). To further justify and strengthen the purpose of the compact crypto-processor’s application, we have also presented a selective encryption architecture (SEA) which incorporates the CISA as a part of the encryption core, accompanied by the set partitioning in hierarchical trees (SPIHT) algorithm as a complete selective encryption system.
Development and Adaptation of Iranian Youth Reproductive Health Questionnaire
Authors: Mousavi Abbas , Keramat Afsaneh , Vakilian Katayon , Esmaeili Vardanjani Safar Ali
Published: July 2013

Iran is a young country, and sexual behavior is shaped in this period. This research aimed to provide an assessment tool to evaluate Iranian youth reproductive health. This multistage research was conducted to design a valid questionnaire in the domains of knowledge, attitude, and behavior of the youth in order to evaluate behavior change programs. For this reason, after conducting a careful literature review and a qualitative research, the questionnaire was prepared. Forward and backward translations were performed. Professionals and students were used to make sure of qualitative and quantitative content and face validity. After conducting the pilot study on 100 students and eliminating defects in performance, reliability was evaluated by test-retest and Cronbach’s alpha was calculated. In this study, out of 268 questions, 198 were retained after face and content validity. Self-efficacy of communication with father and mother, self-efficacy of condom use, and self-efficacy of abstinence had the highest Cronbach’s alpha. Moreover, communication with parents regarding reproductive health issues and attitude to abstinence had a high Cronbach’s alpha, as well. It seems to be a good instrument for assessment of Iranian reproductive health, and we are going to assess youth reproductive health in the future.
Nutritional Properties of Dietary Omega-3-Enriched Phospholipids
Authors: Murru Elisabetta , Banni Sebastiano , Carta Gianfranca
Published: July 2013

Dietary fatty acids regulate several physiological functions. However, to exert their properties, they have to be present in the diet in an optimal balance. Particular attention has been focused on tissue highly polyunsaturated fatty acids (HPUFAs) n-6/n-3 ratio, influenced by the type and the esterified form of dietary fatty acids. Dietary EPA and DHA when esterified to phospholipids (PLs) are more efficiently incorporated into tissue PLs and seem to possess peculiar properties through specific mechanism(s) of action, such as the capacity to affect endocannabinoid biosynthesis at much lower doses than EPA and DHA in triglyceride form, probably because of the above mentioned higher incorporation into tissue PLs. Downregulation of the endocannabinoid system seems to mediate the positive effects exerted by omega-3-enriched PLs on several parameters of metabolic syndrome. PLs are one of the major dietary forms of EPA and DHA we are exposed to with the everyday diet; therefore, it is not surprising that it guarantees an effective EPA and DHA nutritional activity. Future studies should address whether EPA and DHA in PL form are also more effective than other formulations in ameliorating other pathological conditions where n-3 HPUFAs seem to exert beneficial activities such as cancer and psychiatric disorders.
Temporary Filters and Liver Mobilization Technique Improve the Safety and Prognosis of Radical Nephrectomy and Inferior Vena Cava Thrombectomy in Renal Cell Carcinoma with Subdiaphragmatic Thrombosis
Authors: Zhang Jian-ping , Zhu Yu , Liu Yu-jun , Zhang Li , Sun Li-an , Guo Jian-ming , Lin Zong-ming
Published: July 2013

Aims: This study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of preoperative temporary inferior vena cava (IVC) filter placement and intraoperative application of a liver mobilization technique. Materials and Methods: The experiment cohort of 42 cases and the control cohort of 36 cases of renal cell carcinoma involving the IVC were analyzed retrospectively. In the experiment cohort, patients were implanted with a temporary IVC filter as routine preoperative treatment. The control cohort of 36 cases received traditional radical nephrectomy + IVC thrombectomy. Results: In the experiment cohort, 42 cases did not show any symptom of tumor thrombus embolism perioperatively. The average operation time was 220 min and the average blood loss was 750 ml. Overall survival rate of improved surgery was significantly higher than traditional surgery (p = 0.0055). Moreover, tumor thrombus size and position was associated with overall survival (p = 0.0185). Conclusions: Preoperative temporary IVC filter placement and intraoperative application of a liver mobilization technique to expose the IVC can effectively prevent tumor thrombosis embolism shedding and improve surgical safety.
Antimicrobial Impact of Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma on Medical Critical Yeasts and Bacteria Cultures
Authors: Wiegand C. , Beier O. , Horn K. , Pfuch A. , Tölke T. , Hipler U.-C. , Schimanski A.
Published: July 2013

Objectives: Plasma medicine focuses on the application of cold atmospheric pressure plasmas (CAPs) in or on the human body. So far, plasmas have been used to sterilize implant materials or other thermally unstable medical products and have been applied for chemical surface modifications. This study investigates the antimicrobial effect of physical plasmas on microorganisms which cause skin infections, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans, depending on the plasma source and the kind of plasma excitation used. Materials: Microorganisms were plated onto MH2 agar plates. Plasma treatment was performed using the plasma sources BLASTER MEF and kinpen 09. To investigate the antimicrobial effects, the following plasma parameters have been varied: working gas, distance from nozzle to surface, electrical power, grid spacing of treatment lines, number of treatments and work piece velocity. Results: The generated plasmas had an antimicrobial effect that depended on the chosen plasma parameters, in particular on the process gas used, the plasma power and the number of treatments performed. Thus, different reactive species were observed by optical emission spectroscopy measurement in the generated plasmas. Conclusions: The study showed that CAPs exhibit profound bactericidal and fungicidal properties in vitro. However, an important factor for the antimicrobial efficacy is the composition of the ‘chemical soup' supplied by the CAP system which can be regulated by the process gases used.