bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENGARUH BAHAN TAMBAH SERBUK BATA DAN SERAT FIBER PADA SELF COMPACTING CONCRETE (SCC)
Authors: Safarizki Hendramawat Aski
Published: December 2017

Penelitian ini dimaksudkan untuk mengetahui bagaimana kekuatan beton Self Compacting Concrete (SCC) pada umur 1 hari dengan tambahan serbuk batu bata dan limbah fiber sebagai agregat halus dalam campuran beton. Manfaat lain dari penelitian ini adalah mendapatkan informasi terkait manfaat penambahan fiber dalam nilai slump flow beton SCC. Metode yang digunakan dalam pembuatan campuran beton adalah metode trial mix dengan dasar campuran beton normal K350. Dibuat 3 benda uji untuk masing-masing komposisi campuran. Penambahan serbuk bata dan limbah fiber pada pembuatan beton SCC dapat meningkatkan flowability dan workability beton SCC ditunjukkan dengan peningkatan nilai slump flow. Penambahan 2,78% serbuk bata serta 0,07% fiber dapat meningkatkan slump flow dari 120 mm menjadi 670 mm. Slump flow akan berkurang 50% pada penambahan limbah fiber dari 0,07% menjadi 0,55%. Kuat tekan beton umur 1 hari dengan penambahan serbuk bata dan limbah fiber juga akan meningkat. Penambahan 2,78% serbuk bata serta 0,07% fiber dapat meningkatkan kuat tekan beton umur 1 hari dari 5,43 MPa menjadi 6,17 MPa. Kuat tekan akan berkurang 11% pada penambahan limbah fiber dari 0,07% menjadi 0,55%.Penelitian ini dimaksudkan untuk mengetahui bagaimana kekuatan beton Self Compacting Concrete (SCC) pada umur 1 haridengan tambahan serbuk batu bata dan limbah fiber sebagai agregat halus dalam campuran beton. Manfaat lain daripenelitian ini adalah mendapatkan informasi terkait manfaat penambahan fiber dalam nilai slump flow beton SCC. Metodeyang digunakan dalam pembuatan campuran beton adalah metode trial mix dengan dasar campuran beton normal K350.Dibuat 3 benda uji untuk masing-masing komposisi campuran. Penambahan serbuk bata dan limbah fiber pada pembuatanbeton SCC dapat meningkatkan flowability dan workability beton SCC ditunjukkan dengan peningkatan nilai slump flow.Penambahan 2,78% serbuk bata serta 0,07% fiber dapat meningkatkan slump flow dari 120 mm menjadi 670 mm. Slumpflow akan berkurang 50% pada penambahan limbah fiber dari 0,07% menjadi 0,55%. Kuat tekan beton umur 1 hari denganpenambahan serbuk bata dan limbah fiber juga akan meningkat. Penambahan 2,78% serbuk bata serta 0,07% fiber dapatmeningkatkan kuat tekan beton umur 1 hari dari 5,43 MPa menjadi 6,17 MPa. Kuat tekan akan berkurang 11% padapenambahan limbah fiber dari 0,07% menjadi 0,55%.
KARAKTERISTIK FISIKOKIMIAWI SARI BUAH TAPUS (CURCULIGO LATIFOLIA DRYAND) DENGAN METODE EKSTRAKSI OSMOSIS
Authors: Gusmalawati Dwi , Mayasari Eva
Published: December 2017

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk untuk menentukan perlakuan terbaik dari kombinasi proporsi buah : sukrosa dan lama ekstraksi osmosis pada sari buah tapus (Curculigo Latifolia Dryand)  terhadap parameter fisikokimiawi.  Penelitian ini menggunakan Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) dengan 2 faktor yaitu faktor 1 adalah proporsi buah:sukrosa sebesar 1:0.5,  1:1,  1:1,5 dan  faktor 2 adalah lama ekstraksi osmosis yaitu 12, 24, 35 jam. Parameter pengamatan yang digunakan adalah pH, total padatan terlarut, vitamin C, dan total gula. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa semakin tinggi proporsi penambahan buah dan semakin lama ekstraksi osmosis maka terjadi peningkatan terhadap parameter derajat keasaman (pH), peningkatan terlarut, dan total gula. Namun, terjadi penurunan terhadap parameter total vitamin C.
Peroxisomes and free radical production: cell aging
Authors: Sánchez-Gutiérez Manuel , Vargas-Mendoza Nancy , Izquierdo-Vega Jeannett A. , Madrigal Santillán Eduardo O.
Published: December 2017

Peroxisomes are cellular organelles present in the eukaryotic cells that are responsible for detoxification processes such as oxidation of fatty acids, biosynthesis of glycerolipids and isoprenoids, among others. Due to the number of functions which they carry out, they are conditioned to an elevated production of free radicals (FR), for which they have a sophisticated antioxidant system consisting of enzymes that can neutralize free radical molecules. The importance of peroxisomes in the development of age-related diseases such as diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease has been reported recently. In this paper, we review briefly these organelles, treating aspects such as their evolution, functions and the role they play in oxidative stress processes associated with aging.
Francisco de Asis Flores y Troncoso and his influence in the History of Medicine in Mexico
Authors: Alanís Mercedes , Jasso Luis Enrique Soria
Published: December 2017

In the nineteenth century; The Bronze Age, monumental works were produced and the national history was characterized by movements of many writers who were trying to span the general history of Mexico with different topics according to the trends of contemporary authors and events. However, there were individuals interested in preserving the historical records of their country from the perspective of their own field of study. For example, the extensive literary work; History of Medicine in Mexico: Since the days of native population until the present time written by Francisco de Asís Flores y Troncoso and printed in 1886; despite of its significance, this literary work has been largely unnoticed by historiography, however, it is an excellent reference for any student of history of medicine.
For the maternal and child health. Book for Mexican Mother and Health Policy in Mexico in the 1930’s
Authors: Alanís Mercedes
Published: December 2017

The present manuscript addresses one of the most representative examples of forms of the early twentieth century in Mexico, which provides mothers with advice for the proper care of their children. This issue gained relevance since the nineteenth century and was spearheaded by physicians who instructed women in order to reduce the high rates of infant mortality and thereby contribute to the strengthening of the population. This action became relevant in the context of the strengthening of the guidelines of the Department of Public Health.
A review of reproductive risk and its usefulness in public health
Authors: Oropeza Sandra Angélica Jiménez , Ledezma Jesús Carlos Ruvalcaba
Published: December 2017

Reproductive risk manages to be conceptualized by the interaction between the definition of risk and risk factors during reproductive life of women having as a result fatal maternal death and / or death of the fetus or newborn. Therefore, to achieve adequate reproductive health is essential that health personnel manage the risk approach, as not all women have the same chance of getting sick and dying; whose livelihood is the proper understanding of the definition of reproductive risk and their classification (preconception risk, risk obstetrics and perinatal risk) to identify individual needs at every stage of reproductive life in a way so that they are benefiting women and their families
Statistical Equivalence Testing Approaches for Mantel–Haenszel DIF Analysis
Authors: Casabianca Jodi M. , Lewis Charles
Published: December 2017

The null hypothesis test used in differential item functioning (DIF) detection tests for a subgroup difference in item-level performance—if the null hypothesis of “no DIF” is rejected, the item is flagged for DIF. Conversely, an item is kept in the test form if there is insufficient evidence of DIF. We present frequentist and empirical Bayes approaches for implementing statistical equivalence testing for DIF using the Mantel–Haenszel (MH) DIF statistic. With these approaches, rejection of the null hypothesis of “DIF” allows the conclusion of statistical equivalence, a more stringent criterion for keeping items. In other words, the roles of the null and alternative hypotheses are interchanged in order to have positive evidence that the DIF of an item is small. A simulation study compares the equivalence testing approaches to the traditional MH DIF detection method with the Educational Testing Service classification system. We illustrate the methods with item response data from the 2012 Programme for International Student Assessment.
Laparoscopic totally extra peritoneal (TEP) inguinal hernia repair: A series of 47 cases
Authors: Shrestha Suman Kumar
Published: December 2017

Background: Over the past years, several surgical techniques have been evolved, among which total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair is the laparoscopic technique which is more popular now.Objective: To evaluate the outcome of totally extra peritoneal laparoscopic hernioplasty in terms of operation time, hospital stay and complications.Methods: The prospectively designed descriptive study was carried out at Department of Surgery Unit III, Kathmandu Medical College Teaching Hospital from February 2014 to April 2015. Forty seven consecutive patients above 15 years of age underwent totally extra peritoneal repairs for inguinal hernias. The selection criteria were reducible primary or recurrent, unilateral, direct and indirect inguinal hernias. All the relevant details of each patient were noted subsequently and analyzed statistically using Statistical Program for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 15.Results: The mean age of patient was 49±2.5 years. The mean operation time was 65±5.3 minutes. There were no serious complications except four (8.5%) cases of groin seroma which resolved after single time aspiration. Three (6.3%) cases had developed recurrence, two (4.2%) had developed hydrocele in a median follow up period of 6±1.5 (range, 3-9months). The mean inpatient hospital stay was 1.7±0.2 (range, 1-2.4days).Conclusion: Total extra peritoneal hernioplasty is safe and feasible with acceptable complications and recurrence rates.Journal of Kathmandu Medical College, Vol. 5, No. 4, Issue 18, Oct.-Dec., 2016, page: 120-123
Peripheral osteoma of the mandible: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Sharma Mohit
Published: December 2017

Osteomas are benign, slow-growing osteogenic tumors commonly occurring in the craniofacial bones. Osteomas are characterized by the proliferation of compact and/or cancellous bone. It can be of a central, peripheral, or extraskeletal type. The peripheral type arises from the periosteum and is rarely seen in the mandible, if involved, the lingual surface and lower border of the body are the most common locations of these lesions. They are usually asymptomatic and can be discovered in routine clinical and radiographic examination. This paper presents a large solitary peripheral osteoma located in the lingual surface of the right posterior mandible. The osteoma was removed surgically, and no recurrence has been observed.Journal of Kathmandu Medical College, Vol. 5, No. 4, Issue 18, Oct.-Dec., 2016, page: 128-130
Chemical venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in neurosurgical patients: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Khan Nickalus R. , Patel Prayash G. , Sharpe John P. , Lee Siang Liao , Sorenson Jeffrey
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common and potentially life-threatening complication. The risk of serious hemorrhagic complications when starting chemical prophylaxis for VTE prevention is a substantial concern for neurosurgeons. The objective of this study was to perform an updated systematic review and meta-analysis to determine if the rates of VTE and bleeding complications are different in patients undergoing chemoprophylaxis compared with placebo or mechanical prophylaxis alone following cranial or spinal procedures.

METHODS

In February 2016 a systematic literature review was performed identifying 3944 articles from 4 different databases. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed after identifying the articles that met inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

Nine articles that met the inclusion criteria were included. The quality of the studies was good, with all of them being classified as Level 2 evidence, with moderate Jadad scores. A meta-analysis comparing chemoprophylaxis with placebo in the prevention of deep venous thrombosis showed a significant benefit to chemical prophylaxis (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.37–0.71; p < 0.0001). No significant increase in major intracranial hemorrhage (p = 0.60), major extracranial hemorrhage (p = 0.98), or minor bleeding complications (p = 0.60) was found.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on moderate-to-good quality of evidence, chemoprophylaxis is beneficial in preventing VTE, with no significant increase in either major or minor bleeding complications in patients undergoing cranial and spinal procedures. Further research is needed to determine whether this conclusion holds true for more specific subpopulations.
Pedicle screw placement accuracy using ultra-low radiation imaging with image enhancement versus conventional fluoroscopy in minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion: an internally randomized controlled trial
Authors: Nayar Gautam , Blizzard Daniel J. , Wang Timothy Y. , Cook Steven , Back Adam G. , Vincent David , Karikari Isaac O.
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE

A previous study found that ultra-low radiation imaging (ULRI) with image enhancement significantly decreases radiation exposure by roughly 75% for both the patient and operating room personnel during minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) (p < 0.001). However, no clinical data exist on whether this imaging modality negatively impacts patient outcomes. Thus, the goal of this randomized controlled trial was to assess pedicle screw placement accuracy with ULRI with image enhancement compared with conventional, standard-dose fluoroscopy for patients undergoing single-level MIS-TLIF.

METHODS

An institutional review board–approved, prospective internally randomized controlled trial was performed to compare breach rates for pedicle screw placement performed using ULRI with image enhancement versus conventional fluoroscopy. For cannulation and pedicle screw placement, surgery on 1 side (left vs right) was randomly assigned to be performed under ULRI. Screws on the opposite side were placed under conventional fluoroscopy, thereby allowing each patient to serve as his/her own control. In addition to standard intraoperative images to check screw placement, each patient underwent postoperative CT. Three experienced neurosurgeons independently analyzed the images and were blinded as to which imaging modality was used to assist with each screw placement. Screw placement was analyzed for pedicle breach (lateral vs medial and Grade 0 [< 2.0 mm], Grade 1 [2.0–4.0 mm], or Grade 2 [> 4.0 mm]), appropriate screw depth (50%–75% of the vertebral body’s anteroposterior dimension), and appropriate screw angle (within 10° of the pedicle angle). The effective breach rate was calculated as the percentage of screws evaluated as breached > 2.0 mm medially or postoperatively symptomatic.

RESULTS

Twenty-three consecutive patients underwent single-level MIS-TLIF, and their sides were randomly assigned to receive ULRI. No patient had immediate postoperative complications (e.g., neurological decline, need for hardware repositioning). On CT confirmation, 4 screws that had K-wire placement and cannulation under ULRI and screw placement under conventional fluoroscopy showed deviations. There were 2 breaches that deviated medially but both were Grade 0 (< 2.0 mm). Similarly, 2 breaches occurred that were Grade 1 (> 2.0 mm) but both deviated laterally. Therefore, the effective breach rate (breach > 2.0 mm deviated medially) was unchanged in both imaging groups (0% using either ULRI or conventional fluoroscopy; p = 1.00).

CONCLUSIONS

ULRI with image enhancement does not compromise accuracy during pedicle screw placement compared with conventional fluoroscopy while it significantly decreases radiation exposure to both the patient and operating room personnel.
Impact of case type, length of stay, institution type, and comorbidities on Medicare diagnosis-related group reimbursement for adult spinal deformity surgery
Authors: Nunley Pierce D. , Mundis Gregory M. , Fessler Richard G. , Park Paul , Zavatsky Joseph M. , Uribe Juan S. , Eastlack Robert K. , Chou Dean , Wang Michael Y. , Anand Neel , Frank Kelly A. , Stone Marcus B. , Kanter Adam S. , Shaffrey Christopher I. , Mummaneni Praveen V. , _ _
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to educate medical professionals about potential financial impacts of improper diagnosis-related group (DRG) coding in adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery.

METHODS

Medicare’s Inpatient Prospective Payment System PC Pricer database was used to collect 2015 reimbursement data for ASD procedures from 12 hospitals. Case type, hospital type/location, number of operative levels, proper coding, length of stay, and complications/comorbidities (CCs) were analyzed for effects on reimbursement. DRGs were used to categorize cases into 3 types: 1) anterior or posterior only fusion, 2) anterior fusion with posterior percutaneous fixation with no dorsal fusion, and 3) combined anterior and posterior fixation and fusion.

RESULTS

Pooling institutions, cases were reimbursed the same for single-level and multilevel ASD surgery. Longer stay, from 3 to 8 days, resulted in an additional $1400 per stay. Posterior fusion was an additional $6588, while CCs increased reimbursement by approximately $13,000. Academic institutions received higher reimbursement than private institutions, i.e., approximately $14,000 (Case Types 1 and 2) and approximately $16,000 (Case Type 3). Urban institutions received higher reimbursement than suburban institutions, i.e., approximately $3000 (Case Types 1 and 2) and approximately $3500 (Case Type 3). Longer stay, from 3 to 8 days, increased reimbursement between $208 and $494 for private institutions and between $1397 and $1879 for academic institutions per stay.

CONCLUSIONS

Reimbursement is based on many factors not controlled by surgeons or hospitals, but proper DRG coding can significantly impact the financial health of hospitals and availability of quality patient care.
Preliminary results of anterior lumbar interbody fusion, anterior column realignment for the treatment of sagittal malalignment
Authors: Hosseini Pooria , Mundis Gregory M. , Eastlack Robert K. , Bagheri Ramin , Vargas Enrique , Tran Stacie , Akbarnia Behrooz A.
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE

Sagittal malalignment decreases patients’ quality of life and may require surgical correction to achieve realignment goals. High-risk posterior-based osteotomy techniques are the current standard treatment for addressing sagittal malalignment. More recently, anterior lumbar interbody fusion, anterior column realignment (ALIF ACR) has been introduced as an alternative for correction of sagittal deformity. The objective of this paper was to report clinical and radiographic results for patients treated using the ALIF-ACR technique.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 39 patients treated with ALIF ACR was performed. Patient demographics, operative details, radiographic parameters, neurological assessments, outcome measures, and preoperative, postoperative, and mean 1-year follow-up complications were studied.

RESULTS

The patient population comprised 39 patients (27 females and 12 males) with a mean follow-up of 13.3 ± 4.7 months, mean age of 66.1 ± 11.6 years, and mean body mass index of 27.3 ± 6.2 kg/m2. The mean number of ALIF levels treated was 1.5 ± 0.5. Thirty-three (84.6%) of 39 patients underwent posterior spinal fixation and 33 (84.6%) of 39 underwent posterior column osteotomy, of which 20 (60.6%) of 33 procedures were performed at the level of the ALIF ACR. Pelvic tilt, sacral slope, and pelvic incidence were not statistically significantly different between the preoperative and postoperative periods and between the preoperative and 1-year follow-up periods (except for PT between the preoperative and 1-year follow-up, p = 0.018). Sagittal vertical axis, T-1 spinopelvic inclination, lumbar lordosis, pelvic incidence–lumbar lordosis mismatch, intradiscal angle, and motion segment angle all improved from the preoperative to postoperative period and the preoperative to 1-year follow-up (p < 0.05). The changes in motion segment angle and intradiscal angle achieved in the ALIF-ACR group without osteotomy compared with the ALIF-ACR group with osteotomy at the level of ACR were not statistically significant. Total visual analog score, Oswestry Disability Index, and Scoliosis Research Society–22 scores all improved from preoperative to postoperative and preoperative to 1-year follow-up. Fourteen patients (35.9%) experienced 26 complications (15 major and 11 minor). Eleven patients required reoperation. The most common complication was proximal junctional kyphosis (6/26 complications, 23%) followed by vertebral body/endplate fracture (3/26, 12%).

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed satisfactory radiographic and clinical outcomes at the 1-year follow-up. Proximal junctional kyphosis was the most common complication followed by fracture, complications that are commonly associated with sagittal realignment surgery and may not be mitigated by the anterior approach.
Does prior spine surgery or instrumentation affect surgical outcomes following 3-column osteotomy for correction of thoracolumbar deformities?
Authors: Lau Darryl , Chan Andrew K. , Deverin Vedat , Ames Christopher P.
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE

Adult spinal deformity (ASD) develops in the setting of asymmetrical arthritic degeneration, and can also be due to iatrogenic causes, such as prior surgery. Many patients who present with ASD have undergone prior spine surgery with instrumentation. Unfortunately, contemporary studies that evaluate the effect of prior surgery or instrumentation on perioperative outcomes, readmission rates, and need for reoperation are lacking.

METHODS

All ASD patients who underwent a 3-column osteotomy performed by the senior author at the authors’ institution for correction of thoracolumbar spinal deformity between 2006 and 2016 were identified. The authors compared surgical outcomes between primary (first-time) and revision cases. Further subgroup analysis was conducted to investigate the effect of the number of prior surgeries (0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 or more) and the presence of spinal instrumentation on outcomes. Multivariate analysis was used to adjust for relevant and significant confounders.

RESULTS

A total of 300 patients were included; 38.3% of patients were male. The overall perioperative complication rate was 24.7%, and the mean length of hospitalization was 8.2 days. The 90-day readmission rate was 9.0%, and the overall follow-up reoperation rate was 26.7%. There were no significant differences in complication rates (26.6% vs 24.0%, p = 0.645), length of hospitalization (8.7 vs 7.9 days, p = 0.229), readmission rates (11.4% vs 8.1%, p = 0.387), or reoperation rates (26.6% vs 26.7%, p = 0.984) between primary and revision cases. There was no significant difference in wound complications (infections/dehiscence) requiring reoperation (5.1% vs 6.3%, p = 0.683). Subgroup analysis conducted to evaluate the effect of the number of prior spinal surgeries or the presence of spinal instrumentation did not reveal significant differences for the aforementioned surgical outcomes. In adjusted multivariate analysis, there were no significant associations between history of prior surgery (number of prior surgeries and prior instrumentation) and all of the surgical outcomes of interest.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings from this study suggest that patients who have undergone prior spine surgery with or without instrumentation are not at increased risk for perioperative complications, need for readmission, or reoperation following 3-column osteotomy of the thoracolumbar spine.
Research portfolio and prospect on physical characteristics and modelling methods of secondary arcs related to high-voltage power transmission lines
Authors: Cong Haoxi , Du Shiyue , Shu Xiang , Li Qingmin
Published: December 2017

Secondary arc is widely existed in the power system, especially on the high-voltage transmission lines. The extinction of secondary arc is important to the single phase self-reclosing on power transmission lines. In this paper, based on the research of physical characteristics and modelling methods of secondary arcs in recent decades, the research status of the arc experiments, circuit simulation models, arc dynamic models and the extinction criteria were analyzed. The future research prospect of secondary arc is proposed, and the solutions to the key problems are provided. Combining with the dynamic model of the secondary arc, the space-time evolution characteristics can be analyzed, and an on-line suppression method for the dynamic compensation of secondary arc is further proposed.
Design methodology of a multiplicity switched reluctance motor for a high performance direct-drive rotary table
Authors: Lyu Jiangwei , Zhou Kai , Rong Hai , Mao Feilong
Published: December 2017

This paper has proposed a 48/36 multiplicity SRM for a direct-drive rotary table of turn-milling machine tools which requires high torque, minimum torque ripple in milling mode and a wide constant power speed range in turning mode. Generally, rotary tables have a rotor with a large outside diameter to improve their torque output capability, hence a SRM with multiplicity topology is appropriate for such applications. However the design of multiplicity SRMs is not methodical yet. Thus a design methodology of multiplicity SRMs based on theoretical and finite-element analysis has been established and a method of estimating the number of turns based on the supply voltage and the rated speed has been proposed. The static and dynamic characteristics of the proposed SRM are achieved by the finite-element method and a reasonable selection of the stator and rotor pole arc is fulfilled in compromise to satisfy the requirements of high torque, minimum torque ripple and a wide constant power speed range simultaneously. Besides, the dynamic simulation has validated the method of estimating the number of turns. Finally, flux linkage and torque static measurement have been carried out. The results show there a satisfactory agreement between the experimental measurement and finite element analysis results, thus validating the designed motor’s static performance.
Magnetic field and forces in a pair of parallel conductors
Authors: Coufal Oldřich , Radil Lukáš , Toman Petr
Published: December 2017

The article provides a comprehensive idea of the calculating the magnetic field and forces in a pair of parallel solid conductors. The conductors are connected to a sinusoidal voltage source of a frequency that does not exceed 1 MHz. Thus the current density over the conductor cross sections is not constant. Its distribution depends on the distance of the conductors and their resistivity, on the shape of conductor cross sections, and on the voltage source frequency. The distribution of current density over the conductor cross sections affects not only the magnetic field produced by the conductors but also the forces acting on the conductors. For the acting forces, general conclusions are derived that hold for conductors of arbitrary shape of cross section. Specifically, pairs of conductors of rectangular, circular and triangular cross section are examined.
Development of a novel dual-coil fuel injector for direct-injection spark ignition engines
Authors: Chen Yong , Zhang Zhendong
Published: December 2017

High-speed DISI injector plays a key role in DISI injector. In order to improve the dynamic response of the DISI injector, a novel dual-coil DISI injector based on vehicle battery-voltage-system was designed. A two stage driving strategy was used to drive the dual-coil injector. The transient electromagnetic FEM (Finite Element Method) model was established based on electromagnetic, mechanical and power losses. The key parameters which directly or indirectly impact on the injector performances were analyzed by simulation, including lines of magnetic flux, magnetic flux density and total loss distribution. Simultaneously, the current loss, eddy current loss and solid loss over time investigated as well. In order to validate the accuracy of the simulation results, the plunger position over time and shot-to-shot flow rate were measured by the laser displacement sensor and flow rate meter. The results indicated that, the simulation results were good agreement to the experimental results. The simulation and experimental results also proved that the comprehensive performances of novel dual-coil DISI injector better than the single-coil DISI injector, expressed as lower power losses and faster dynamic response. Therefore, it has great potential to applicate on the vehicle at enhancing the fuel economy and reducing emission.
Hodgkin lymphoma: A review and update on recent progress
Authors: Shanbhag Satish , Ambinder Richard F.
Published: December 2017

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is a unique hematopoietic neoplasm characterized by cancerous Reed‐Sternberg cells in an inflammatory background. Patients are commonly diagnosed with HL in their 20s and 30s, and they present with supradiaphragmatic lymphadenopathy, often with systemic B symptoms. Even in advanced‐stage disease, HL is highly curable with combination chemotherapy, radiation, or combined‐modality treatment. Although the same doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine chemotherapeutic regimen has been the mainstay of therapy over the last 30 years, risk‐adapted approaches have helped de‐escalate therapy in low‐risk patients while intensifying treatment for higher risk patients. Even patients who are not cured with initial therapy can often be salvaged with alternate chemotherapy combinations, the novel antibody‐drug conjugate brentuximab, or high‐dose autologous or allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The programmed death‐1 inhibitors nivolumab and pembrolizumab have both demonstrated high response rates and durable remissions in patients with relapsed/refractory HL. Alternate donor sources and reduced‐intensity conditioning have made allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation a viable option for more patients. Future research will look to integrate novel strategies into earlier lines of therapy to improve the HL cure rate and minimize long‐term treatment toxicities. CA Cancer J Clin 2018;68:116‐132. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Gastric outlet obstruction as a sequel of hydrochloric acid ingestion
Authors: Ahsan S. M. Abu , Ahsan Tazin
Published: December 2017

Corrosive injury of the upper gastro-intestinal tract is a common cause of morbidity and may result in mortality. Gastric outlet obstruction is a common late sequel, which is best confirmed by esophagogastroduodenoscopy. The surgical management for gastric outlet obstruction has been proven to be beneficial in relieving the symptoms and improving the quality of life. We present here a case of gastric outlet obstruction following hydrochloric acid ingestion as an attempt of self-harm and its surgical management. After the desired surgical treatment, the patient improved clinically which was also reflected in the biochemical results. Proper patient evaluation and planning of operation are vital before surgery.
Integration of Aqueous Two-Phase Extraction as Cell Harvest and Capture Operation in the Manufacturing Process of Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Schmidt Axel , Richter Michael , Rudolph Frederik , Strube Jochen
Published: December 2017

Substantial improvements have been made to cell culturing processes (e.g., higher product titer) in recent years by raising cell densities and optimizing cultivation time. However, this has been accompanied by an increase in product-related impurities and therefore greater challenges in subsequent clarification and capture operations. Considering the paradigm shift towards the design of continuously operating dedicated plants at smaller scales—with or without disposable technology—for treating smaller patient populations due to new indications or personalized medicine approaches, the rising need for new, innovative strategies for both clarification and capture technology becomes evident. Aqueous two-phase extraction (ATPE) is now considered to be a feasible unit operation, e.g., for the capture of monoclonal antibodies or recombinant proteins. However, most of the published work so far investigates the applicability of ATPE in antibody-manufacturing processes at the lab-scale and for the most part, only during the capture step. This work shows the integration of ATPE as a combined harvest and capture step into a downstream process. Additionally, a model is applied that allows early prediction of settler dimensions with high prediction accuracy. Finally, a reliable process development concept, which guides through the necessary steps, starting from the definition of the separation task to the final stages of integration and scale-up, is presented.
A Transplantable Frequency Selective Metasurface for High-Order Harmonic Suppression
Authors: Kou Na , Liu Haixia , Li Long
Published: December 2017

A transplantable frequency selective metasurface element (FSMSE) for high-order harmonic suppression (HS) is presented in this paper. The proposed harmonic free FSMSE can be integrated with arbitrary frequency selective surfaces (FSSs) operating at the same frequency band. The designed HS-FSMSE is applied to two different types of FSSs for verification of harmonic suppression, respectively. One is a multilayer sub-wavelength patch-grid FSS that has weak resonant behavior, and the other is a complementary resonant loop FSS which has strong resonant behavior, especially for high-order harmonic waves. By integrating with HS-FSMSE, the two kinds of FSSs operating at 10 GHz are free of harmonic transmission bands up to 30 GHz. The simulation and measurement results show feasibility of the harmonic suppression FSMSW and good polarization and angle stabilities.
Melodic Similarity and Applications Using Biologically-Inspired Techniques
Authors: Bountouridis Dimitrios , Brown Daniel , Wiering Frans , Veltkamp Remco
Published: December 2017

Music similarity is a complex concept that manifests itself in areas such as Music Information Retrieval (MIR), musicological analysis and music cognition. Modelling the similarity of two music items is key for a number of music-related applications, such as cover song detection and query-by-humming. Typically, similarity models are based on intuition, heuristics or small-scale cognitive experiments; thus, applicability to broader contexts cannot be guaranteed. We argue that data-driven tools and analysis methods, applied to songs known to be related, can potentially provide us with information regarding the fine-grained nature of music similarity. Interestingly, music and biological sequences share a number of parallel concepts; from the natural sequence-representation, to their mechanisms of generating variations, i.e., oral transmission and evolution respectively. As such, there is a great potential for applying scientific methods and tools from bioinformatics to music. Stripped-down from biological heuristics, certain bioinformatics approaches can be generalized to any type of sequence. Consequently, reliable and unbiased data-driven solutions to problems such as biological sequence similarity and conservation analysis can be applied to music similarity and stability analysis. Our paper relies on such an approach to tackle a number of tasks and more notably to model global melodic similarity.
Simulation and Fabrication of HfO2 Thin Films Passivating Si from a Numerical Computer and Remote Plasma ALD
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Ying , Hsu Chia-Hsun , Cho Yun-Shao , Lien Shui-Yang , Zhu Wen-Zhang , Chen Song-Yan , Huang Wei , Xie Lin-Gui , Chen Lian-Dong , Zou Xu-Yang , Huang Si-Xin
Published: December 2017

Recombination of charge carriers at silicon surfaces is one of the biggest loss mechanisms in crystalline silicon (c-Si) solar cells. Hafnium oxide (HfO2) has attracted much attention as a passivation layer for n-type c-Si because of its positive fixed charges and thermal stability. In this study, HfO2 films are deposited on n-type c-Si using remote plasma atomic layer deposition (RP-ALD). Post-annealing is performed using a rapid thermal processing system at different temperatures in nitrogen ambient for 10 min. The effects of post-annealing temperature on the passivation properties of the HfO2 films on c-Si are investigated. Personal computer one dimension numerical simulation for the passivated emitter and rear contact (PERC) solar cells with the HfO2 passivation layer is also presented. By means of modeling and numerical computer simulation, the influence of different front surface recombination velocity (SRV) and rear SRV on n-type silicon solar cell performance was investigated. Simulation results show that the n-type PERC solar cell with HfO2 single layer can have a conversion efficiency of 22.1%. The PERC using silicon nitride/HfO2 stacked passivation layer can further increase efficiency to 23.02% with an open-circuit voltage of 689 mV.
Wavelength Conversion Enhancement Achieved by Using Resonance in an Array of Nanocylinders
Authors: Moon Kihwan , Lee Young , Hong Seokhyeon , Kwon Soon-Hong
Published: December 2017

Upconversion (UC) materials are promising for harvesting visual light. However, the efficiency of UC processes is very low when applied to practical devices. Therefore, we propose an array of UC nanocylinders on a gold substrate and induce electric dipole (ED) and magnetic dipole (MD) resonances to increase the UC process efficiency by increasing light-matter interactions via the nanostructures. The nanocylinders not only increase the absorption of infrared light with a wavelength of 980 nm but also enhance the emission of visible light with a wavelength of 660 nm through surface plasmons and electric dipole resonances. The absorbance of the UC material can be enhanced by coupling with the surface plasmons and coupling with the MDs of each nanocylinder. On the other hand, the emission of visible light can be largely enhanced by increasing the spontaneous emission rate of the Purcell effect in electric dipole resonances and tailoring the output efficiency of the emitted light. In summary, we obtained an absorption enhancement of ×7.3, an average effective upward emission enhancement of ×21, and an improved total UC process of the proposed nanocylinder of ×155.
Concentration and Size Distribution of Culturable Bacteria in Ambient Air during Spring and Winter in Gliwice: A Typical Urban Area
Authors: Brągoszewska Ewa , Mainka Anna , Pastuszka Jozef
Published: December 2017

The concentrations and size distributions of culturable bacterial aerosols were measured during spring and winter in outdoor air in Gliwice, Upper Silesia, Poland. This research on culturable bacteria was carried over a period of two years. The samples were collected using a six-stage Andersen cascade impactor (with aerodynamic cut-off diameters of 7.0, 4.7, 3.3, 2.1, 1.1, and 0.65 μm). The results showed that the average concentration of culturable bacterial aerosol was 355 CFU m−3 in spring, which was four times higher than during winter (65 CFU m−3). Bacterial aerosol concentrations showed the unimodal size distribution with the highest range of 3.3–4.7 μm particles. The seasonal distributions of bacterial aerosol grain clearly indicate that, in winter, the size distribution of particles <7 μm is more “flattened” and is characterized by an increased share of fine fractions and a decreased share of coarse ones. Environmental parameters, such as temperature, UV radiation, relative humidity, wind velocity, as well as PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations, were measured in order to analyse whether environmental factors had any effect on bacterial aerosols. Statistically, the most important meteorological factors in the viability of airborne bacteria were temperature and UV radiation.
Regularities and Systematic Trends on Zr IV Stark Widths
Authors: Majlinger Zlatko , Dimitrijević Milan , Simić Zoran
Published: December 2017

Regularities and systematic trends among the Stark widths of 18 Zr IV spectral lines obtained by modified semiempirical approach have been discussed. Also we compared those calculated Stark broadening parameters with estimates according to Cowley, Purić et al. and Purić and Šćepanović and checked the possibility to find some new estimates. It is demonstrated as well that the formula of Cowley (1971) overestimates Stark widths, obtained by using modified semiempirical method, with the increase of angular orbital momentum quantum number due to its neglection. It is also found that the results obtained by using formula for simple estimates of Purić et al. (1991) are in agreement with the modified semiempirical results within the estimated error bars of both methods, while the estimates using formula of Purić and Šćepanović (1999) are in strong disagreement which increases with the increase of angular orbital momentum quantum number.
In Vino Veritas? An Alternative Story of European Convergence
Authors: Fedoseeva Svetlana
Published: December 2017

While some European antagonists claim that united Europe is a utopia, grounded on mental and cultural discrepancies as well as aversion to changes of any kind, this paper challenges this cultural heterogeneity by looking at the history of the EU from the perspective of alcohol consumption and its development. By using WHO data over the last 50 years I show how consumption patterns of European countries evolved over time, in terms of volumes and composition of alcohol intake per-capita, outlining the major tendencies of the (converging) European market.
Identification of a Raloxifene Analog That Promotes AhR-Mediated Apoptosis in Cancer Cells
Authors: Jang Hyo , Pearce Martin , O’Donnell Edmond , Nguyen Bach , Truong Lisa , Mueller Monica , Bisson William , Kerkvliet Nancy , Tanguay Robert , Kolluri Siva
Published: December 2017

We previously reported that raloxifene, an estrogen receptor modulator, is also a ligand for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Raloxifene induces apoptosis in estrogen receptor-negative human cancer cells through the AhR. We performed structure–activity studies with seven raloxifene analogs to better understand the structural requirements of raloxifene for induction of AhR-mediated transcriptional activity and apoptosis. We identified Y134 as a raloxifene analog that activates AhR-mediated transcriptional activity and induces apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 human triple negative breast cancer cells. Suppression of AhR expression strongly reduced apoptosis induced by Y134, indicating the requirement of AhR for Y134-induced apoptosis. Y134 also induced apoptosis in hepatoma cells without having an effect on cell cycle regulation. Toxicity testing on zebrafish embryos revealed that Y134 has a significantly better safety profile than raloxifene. Our studies also identified an analog of raloxifene that acts as a partial antagonist of the AhR, and is capable of inhibiting AhR agonist-induced transcriptional activity. We conclude that Y134 is a promising raloxifene analog for further optimization as an anti-cancer agent targeting the AhR.
The Modulation of NMDA and AMPA/Kainate Receptors by Tocotrienol-Rich Fraction and Α-Tocopherol in Glutamate-Induced Injury of Primary Astrocytes
Authors: Abedi Zahra , Khaza’ai Huzwah , Vidyadaran Sharmili , Mutalib Mohd Sokhini Abd
Published: December 2017

Astrocytes are known as structural and supporting cells in the central nervous system (CNS). Glutamate, as a main excitatory amino acid neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system, can be excitotoxic, playing a key role in many chronic neurodegenerative diseases. The aim of the current study was to elucidate the potential of vitamin E in protecting glutamate-injured primary astrocytes. Hence, primary astrocytes were isolated from mixed glial cells of C57BL/6 mice by applying the EasySep® Mouse CD11b Positive Selection Kit, cultured in Dulbecco’s modified Eagle medium (DMEM) and supplemented with special nutrients. The IC20 and IC50 values of glutamate, as well as the cell viability of primary astrocytes, were assessed with 100 ng/mL, 200 ng/mL, and 300 ng/mL of tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF) and alpha-tocopherol (α-TCP), as determined by an 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) detected in primary astrocytes was assessed with the same concentrations of TRF and α-TCP. The expression levels of the ionotropic glutamate receptor genes (Gria2, Grin2A, GRIK1) were independently determined using RT-PCR. The purification rate of astrocytes was measured by a flow-cytometer as circa 79.4%. The IC20 and IC50 values of glutamate were determined as 10 mM and 100 mM, respectively. Exposure to 100 mM of glutamate in primary astrocytes caused the inhibition of cell viability of approximately 64.75% and 61.10% in pre- and post-study, respectively (p < 0.05). Both TRF and α-TCP (at the lowest and highest concentrations, respectively) were able to increase the MMP to 88.46% and 93.31% pre-treatment, and 78.43% and 81.22% post-treatment, respectively. Additionally, the findings showed a similar pattern for the expression level of the ionotropic glutamate receptor genes. Increased extracellular calcium concentrations were also observed, indicating that the presence of vitamin E altered the polarization of astrocytes. In conclusion, α-TCP showed better recovery and prophylactic effects as compared to TRF in the pre-treatment of glutamate-injured primary astrocytes.
Contribution of Discretionary Foods and Drinks to Australian Children’s Intake of Energy, Saturated Fat, Added Sugars and Salt
Authors: Johnson Brittany , Bell Lucinda , Zarnowiecki Dorota , Rangan Anna , Golley Rebecca
Published: December 2017

Interventions are required to reduce children’s consumption of discretionary foods and drinks. To intervene we need to identify appropriate discretionary choice targets. This study aimed to determine the main discretionary choice contributors to energy and key nutrient intakes in children aged 2–18 years. Secondary analyses were performed with population weighted, single 24 h dietary recall data from the 2011–2012 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey. Cakes, muffins, and slices; sweet biscuits; potato crisps and similar snacks; and, processed meats and sugar-sweetened drinks were relatively commonly consumed and were within the top three to five contributors to per capita energy, saturated fat, sodium, and/or added sugars. Per consumer intake identified cereal-based takeaway foods; cakes, muffins and slices; meat pies and other savoury pastries; and, processed meats as top contributors to energy, saturated fat, and sodium across most age groups. Subgroups of sugar-sweetened drinks and cakes, muffins and slices were consistently key contributors to added sugars intake. This study identified optimal targets for interventions to reduce discretionary choices intake, likely to have the biggest impact on moderating energy intake while also reducing intakes of saturated fat, sodium and/or added sugars.