bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Slip Effects on Peristaltic Transport in an Inclined Channel with Mass Transfer and Chemical Reaction
Authors: Hayat T. , Yasmin Humaira , Asghar S. , Hendi Awatif A.
Published: March 2015

An analysis is carried out for the peristaltic flow in an inclined asymmetric channel when no-slip condition does not hold. The whole analysis has been carried out in the presence of mass transfer and chemical reaction. The channel asymmetry is generated because of peristaltic wave train on the walls through different amplitudes and phases. Long wavelength and low Reynolds number assumption is adopted in the whole mathematical analysis. Expressions for the stream function and longitudinal pressure gradient have been developed. Numerical integration is performed for the analysis of pressure rise per wavelength. Longitudinal velocity, pumping and trapping phenomena are analyzed in detail via plots.
Plantar Pressure Variation during Jogging with Different Heel Height
Authors: Gu Y. D. , Sun D. , Li J. S. , Graham M. R. , Ren X. J.
Published: March 2015

This paper presents the key testing and analysis results of an investigation on the effect of heel height on the plantar pressure over different foot areas in jogging. It is important in improving the understanding of jogging with high heels and damage/injury prevention. It can also potentially guide the development of suitable/adaptive exercise schemes in between daily activities with high heels. In this work, plantar pressure data were collected from 10 habituated healthy female subjects (aged 21–25 years) at their natural jogging speed with three different conditions: flat heeled shoes (0.8 cm), low heeled shoes (4.0 cm), and high heeled shoes (6.6 cm). Data analysis showed significantly differences in plantar pressure distribution associated with the heel heights with increased pressure in the first metatarsal region and decreased pressure in the lateral metatarsal and midfoot sections. However, there is no significant alteration of plantar pressure in the central area of the forefoot with jogging gait.
Geometric Fuzzy Techniques for Guidance of Visually Impaired People
Authors: Landa-Hernández Adán , Casarubias-Vargas Heriberto , Bayro-Corrochano Eduardo
Published: March 2015

In this paper we present the design of a device to guide the visually impaired person who normally uses a cane. We propose a non-invasive device that will help blind and visually impaired people to navigate. The system uses stereoscopic vision, a RGB-D sensor and an IMU to process images and to compute the distances from obstacles relative to cameras and to search for free walking paths in the scene. This computing is done using stereo vision, vanishing points, and fuzzy rules. Vanishing points are used to obtain a main orientation in structured spaces. Since the guidance system is related to a spatial reference system, the vanishing point is used like a virtual compass that helps the blind to orient him- or herself towards a goal. Reinforced with fuzzy decision rules, the system supports the blind in avoiding obstacles, thus the blind person is able to cross structured spaces and avoid obstacles without the need for a cane.
Effect of Hematocrit on Wall Shear Stress for Blood Flow through Tapered Artery
Authors: Singh A. K. , Singh D. P.
Published: March 2015

The purpose of this study to show the effects of Hematocrit (Red blood cells), height of stenosis, porous parameter and velocity of blood on wall shear stress of the flow of blood through tapered artery. The study reveals that wall shear stress reduces for increasing Hematocrit percentage. It is also observed that wall shear stress increases as stenosis height and porous parameter increase whereas it decreases with the increasing values of velocity of blood and slope of tapered artery.
Effects of Convective Conditions and Chemical Reaction on Peristaltic Flow of Eyring-Powell Fluid
Authors: Hayat T. , Tanveer Anum , Yasmin Humaira , Alsaedi A.
Published: March 2015

This paper addresses the peristaltic flow of Eyring-Powell fluid in a symmetric channel with convective conditions. The Soret and Dufour effects are considered. Impact of first order chemical reaction is seen. The channel walls are of compliant nature. Long wavelength and low Reynolds number concepts are implemented. Resulting problems are solved for the stream function, temperature and concentration. Graphical results are presented and discussed in detail for various pertinent parameters.
A Study of Nonlinear Variable Viscosity in Finite-Length Tube with Peristalsis
Authors: Abd Elmaboud Y. , Mekheimer Kh. S. , Abdelsalam Sara I.
Published: March 2015

Peristaltic motion of an incompressible Newtonian fluid with variable viscosity induced by periodic sinusoidal traveling wave propagating along the walls of a finite-length tube has been investigated. A perturbation method of solution is sought. The viscosity parameter α (α << 1) is chosen as a perturbation parameter and the governing equations are developed up to the first-order in the viscosity parameter (α). The analytical solution has been derived for the radial velocity at the tube wall, the axial pressure gradient across the length of the tube, and the wall shear stress under the assumption of low Reynolds number and long wavelength approximation. The impacts of physical parameters such as the viscosity and the parameter determining the shape of the constriction on the pressure distribution and on the wall shear stress for integral and non-integral number of waves are illustrated. The main conclusion that can be drawn out of this study is that the peaks of pressure fluctuate with time and attain different values with non-integral numbers of peristaltic waves. The considered problem is very applicable in study of biological flow and industrial flow.
Structural Bionic Design for Digging Shovel of Cassava Harvester Considering Soil Mechanics
Authors: Liu Shihao , Weng Shaojie , Liao Yulan , Zhu Dongyun
Published: March 2015

In order to improve the working performance of cassava harvester, structural bionic design for its digging shovel was conducted. Taking the oriental mole cricket's paws as bionic prototype, a new structural bionic design method for digging shovel was established, which considers the morphology-configuration-function coupling bionic. A comprehensive performance comparison method was proposed, which is used to select the bionic design schemes. The proposed bionic design method was used to improve digging shovel structure of a digging-pulling style cassava harvester, and nine bionic-type digging shovels were obtained with considering the impact of soil mechanics. After conducting mechanical properties comparative analysis for bionic-type digging shovels, the bionic design rules were summed up, and the optimal design scheme of digging shovel was obtained through combining the proposed comprehensive performance comparison method with Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Studies have shown that bionic design method not only can improve the overall mechanical properties of digging shovel, but also can help to improve the harvesting effect of cassava harvester, which provides a new idea for crops harvesting machinery's structural optimization design.
Mathematical Modelling of Blood Flow through a Tapered Overlapping Stenosed Artery with Variable Viscosity
Authors: Shit G. C. , Roy M. , Sinha A.
Published: March 2015

This paper presents a theoretical study of blood flow through a tapered and overlapping stenosed artery under the action of an externally applied magnetic field. The fluid (blood) medium is assumed to be porous in nature. The variable viscosity of blood depending on hematocrit (percentage volume of erythrocytes) is taken into account in order to improve resemblance to the real situation. The governing equation for laminar, incompressible and Newtonian fluid subject to the boundary conditions is solved by using a well known Frobenius method. The analytical expressions for velocity component, volumetric flow rate, wall shear stress and pressure gradient are obtained. The numerical values are extracted from these analytical expressions and are presented graphically. It is observed that the influence of hematocrit, magnetic field and the shape of artery have important impact on the velocity profile, pressure gradient and wall shear stress. Moreover, the effect of primary stenosis on the secondary one has been significantly observed.
Effect of Wall Properties on the Peristaltic Flow of a Non-Newtonian Fluid
Authors: Javed Maryiam , Hayat T. , Alsaedi A.
Published: March 2015

The effect of wall properties is analyzed on the peristaltic motion of a Burgers’ fluid. Sinusoidal waves are considered on the channel walls. Small amplitude assumption is taken into account to solve the required boundary value problem. Various flow parameters of interest are sketched and discussed through graphs. Comparative study of the mean velocity for different fluid models is presented the mean velocity is found maximum in viscous fluid when compared with the Maxwell, Oldroyd-B and Burgers’ fluids.
Bioinspired Fingertip for Anthropomorphic Robotic Hands
Authors: Controzzi Marco , D'Alonzo Marco , Peccia Carlo , Oddo Calogero Maria , Carrozza Maria Chiara , Cipriani Christian
Published: March 2015

Background: An artificial fingertip with mechanical features and appearance similar to the human fingertip could represent a significant step forward towards the development of the next generation artificial hands. However, so far, a fingertip showing a good trade-off among mechanical features, appearance and anthropomorphism, along with its 3D computational model, is still missing.

Objective: To explore and develop an artificial fingertip demonstrating a mechanical response similar to the human fingertip, in order to improve the grasp stability of robotic hands.

Methods: Taking inspiration from the multi-layered structure of the human finger, novel artificial fingertips, composed of a rigid core and covered by layers of polymeric materials with different degrees of stiffness and topped by a hard nail were developed. An accurate 3D finite element (FE) model was also developed in order to simulate and evaluate the internal mechanical behavior of the prototypes under external indentations. The mechanical response of the prototypes was assessed and compared with that of the human fingertip and the FE model results, under different experimental conditions. Finally, the artificial fingertips were integrated into an anthropomorphic robotic hand and evaluated in grip tests, in order to compare the grasp stability with respect to conventional stiff (metal) fingertips.

Results: The developed prototypes demonstrated a response to compression tests similar to the human finger and the FE model showed a discrete accuracy (mean error 7%). Finally, an increased ability (by 96%) in stably holding objects during precision grips with respect to conventional stiff fingers was demonstrated.

Conclusion: Multi-layered biomimetic fingertips can improve grasp stability and cosmetic appearance of anthropomorphic robot hands.
Possible Usage of Cannulated Pedicle Screws without Cement Augmentation
Authors: Demir Teyfik
Published: March 2015

Background: The use of pedicle screws is becoming increasingly popular for spinal surgery practice as the technology advances. Screw pullout due to bone quality and loading conditions is one of the most common problems observed after pedicle screw fixation. Several solutions were studied to prevent screw pullout. These can be investigated under three main categories: screw design, expandable screws and cement augmentation.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the pullout performance of cannulated screws without cement augmentation on synthetic foams.

Methods: Artificial fusion process for PU is described and validated in our previous studies. For this study six newly designed cannulated pedicle screws were artificially fused to PU foam and pullout test were conducted according to ASTM F543 standard testing protocols.

Results: According to the results of post-fusion pullout tests, worst performed cannulated screw design was S3H on healthy bone simulating PU foam. However, pullout strength of unilaterally three holes including (S3H) design was purchased with two times higher loads when compared to control group. Solid cored screws were purchased with 671 N where this value was 1450 N for S3H design.

Conclusions: This study provided that using cannulated pedicle screws without cement augmentation for the cases with healthy bone can be a reliable alternative to classical screws. To the knowledge of the authors this is the first post-fusion study investigating cannulated pedicle screws without cement augmentation.
Contracting Fashion Products Supply Chains When Demand Is Dependent on Price and Sales Effort
Authors: Wei Ying , Xiong Liyang
Published: March 2015

This paper investigates optimal decisions in a two-stage fashion product supply chain under two specified contracts: revenue-sharing contract and wholesale price contract, where demand is dependent on retailing price and sales effort level. Optimal decisions and related profits are analyzed and further compared among the cases where the effort investment fee is determined and undertaken either by the retailer or the manufacturer. Results reveal that if the retailer determines the effort investment level, she would be better off under the wholesale price contract and would invest more effort. However, if the manufacturer determines the effort level, he prefers to the revenue-sharing contract most likely if both parties agree on consignment.
Stability Analysis of a Model of Atherosclerotic Plaque Growth
Authors: Reddy Sushruth , Seshaiyer Padmanabhan
Published: March 2015

Atherosclerosis, the formation of life-threatening plaques in blood vessels, is a form of cardiovascular disease. In this paper, we analyze a simplified model of plaque growth to derive physically meaningful results about the growth of plaques. In particular, the main results of this paper are two conditions, which express that the immune response increases as LDL cholesterol levels increase and that diffusion prevails over inflammation in a healthy artery.
The Polar Fluid Model for Blood Flow through a Tapered Artery with Overlapping Stenosis: Effects of Catheter and Velocity Slip
Authors: Reddy J. V. Ramana , Srikanth D.
Published: March 2015

The blood flow through an overlapping clogged tapered artery in the presence of catheter is discussed. Since cholesterol deposition is resulting in the stenosis formation, velocity slip at the arterial wall is considered. The equations governing the fluid flow have been solved analytically under the assumption of the mild stenosis. The analysis with respect to various parameters arising out of fluid and geometry considered, on physiological parameters such as impedance and wall shear stress at the maximum height of the stenosis as well as across the entire length of the stenosis has been reported. A table summarizing the locations of extreme heights and the corresponding annular radii is provided. It is observed that the wall shear stress is the same at both the locations corresponding to the maximum height of the stenosis in case of nontapered artery while it varies in case of tapered artery. It is also observed that slip velocity and diverging tapered artery facilitate the fluid flow. Shear stress at the wall is increasing as micropolar parameter is decreasing and the trend is reversed in case of coupling number. The results obtained are validated by comparing them with the experimental and theoretical results.
Inadvertent Apical Extrusion of Sodium Hypochlorite with Evaluation by Dental Volumetric Tomography
Authors: Başer Can Elif Delve , Karapınar Kazandağ Meriç , Kaptan Rabia Figen
Published: March 2015

This case report describes the tissue injury caused by inadvertently extruded NaOCl through the apical constriction. A 56-year-old female patient with complaints of pain, swelling, and ecchymosis on the left side of her face was referred to our clinic. The symptoms had emerged following root canal treatment of the maxillary left first premolar, and a soft tissue complication due to apical extrusion of NaOCl was diagnosed. Antibiotics and analgesics were prescribed. DVT images revealed that the buccal root apex had perforated the maxillary bone. The patient was followed up every other day and became asymptomatic on the 10th day. Endodontic therapy was completed with routine procedures. Determining working length precisely and following irrigation protocols meticulously are indispensable to prevent this type of complication. 3D visualization of the affected area may reveal the cause of the incident.
A Novel PET Imaging Using64Cu-Labeled Monoclonal Antibody against Mesothelin Commonly Expressed on Cancer Cells
Authors: Kobayashi Kazuko , Sasaki Takanori , Takenaka Fumiaki , Yakushiji Hiromasa , Fujii Yoshihiro , Kishi Yoshiro , Kita Shoichi , Shen Lianhua , Kumon Hiromi , Matsuura Eiji
Published: March 2015

Mesothelin (MSLN) is a 40-kDa cell differentiation-associated glycoprotein appearing with carcinogenesis and is highly expressed in many human cancers, including the majority of pancreatic adenocarcinomas, ovarian cancers, and mesotheliomas, while its expression in normal tissue is limited to mesothelial cells lining the pleura, pericardium, and peritoneum. Clone 11-25 is a murine hybridoma secreting monoclonal antibody (mAb) against human MSLN. In this study, we applied the 11-25 mAb toin vivoimaging to detect MSLN-expressing tumors. Inin vitroandex vivoimmunochemical studies, we demonstrated specificity of 11-25 mAb to membranous MSLN expressed on several pancreatic cancer cells. We showed the accumulation of Alexa Fluor 750-labeled 11-25 mAb in MSLN-expressing tumor xenografts in athymic nude mice. Then, 11-25 mAb was labeled with64Cu via a chelating agent DOTA and was used in bothin vitrocell binding assay andin vivopositron emission tomography (PET) imaging in the tumor-bearing mice. We confirmed that64Cu-labeled 11-25 mAb highly accumulated in MSLN-expressing tumors as compared to MSLN-negative ones. The64Cu-labeled 11-25 mAb is potentially useful as a PET probe capable of being used for wide range of tumors, rather than18F-FDG that occasionally provides nonspecific accumulation into the inflammatory lesions.
A Note on Radiative Heat Transfer to Peristaltic Flow of Sisko Fluid
Authors: Mehmood Obaid Ullah , Fetecau Constantin
Published: March 2015

This paper looks at the effects of radiative heat transfer on the peristaltic transport of a Sisko fluid in an asymmetric channel with nonuniform wall temperatures. Adopting the lubrication theory, highly nonlinear coupled governing equations involving power law index as an exponent have been linearized and perturbation solutions are obtained about the Sisko fluid parameter. Analytical solutions for the stream function, axial pressure gradient, axial velocity, skin friction, and Nusselt number are derived for three different cases (i.e., shear thinning fluid, viscous fluid, and shear thickening fluid). The effects of Grashof number, radiation parameter, and other configuration parameters on pumping, trapping, temperature, Nusselt number, and skin friction have been examined in detail. A good agreement has been found for the case of viscous fluid with existing results.
Analysis of Chemokines and Receptors Expression Profile in the Myelin MutantTaiepRat
Authors: Soto-Rodriguez Guadalupe , Gonzalez-Barrios Juan-Antonio , Martinez-Fong Daniel , Blanco-Alvarez Victor-Manuel , Eguibar Jose R. , Ugarte Araceli , Martinez-Perez Francisco , Brambila Eduardo , Millán-Perez Peña Lourdes , Pazos-Salazar Nidia-Gary , Torres-Soto Maricela , Garcia-Robles Guadalupe , Tomas-Sanchez Constantino , Leon-Chavez Bertha Alicia
Published: March 2015

Taieprat has a failure in myelination and remyelination processes leading to a state of hypomyelination throughout its life. Chemokines, which are known to play a role in inflammation, are also involved in the remyelination process. We aimed to demonstrate that remyelination-stimulating factors are altered in the brainstem of 1- and 6-month-oldtaieprats. We used a Rat RT2Profiler PCR Array to assess mRNA expression of 84 genes coding for cytokines, chemokines, and their receptors. We also evaluated protein levels of CCL2, CCR1, CCR2, CCL5, CCR5, CCR8, CXCL1, CXCR2, CXCR4, FGF2, and VEGFA by ELISA. Sprague-Dawley rats were used as a control. PCR Array procedure showed that proinflammatory cytokines were not upregulated in thetaieprat. In contrast, some mRNA levels of beta and alpha chemokines were upregulated in 1-month-old rats, but CXCR4 was downregulated at their 6 months of age. ELISA results showed that CXCL1, CCL2, CCR2, CCR5, CCR8, and CXCR4 protein levels were decreased in brainstem at the age of 6 months. These results suggest the presence of a chronic neuroinflammation process with deficiency of remyelination-stimulating factors (CXCL1, CXCR2, and CXCR4), which might account for the demyelination in thetaieprat.
Metastatic Colonic Adenocarcinoma in Breast: Report of Two Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kothadia Jiten P. , Arju Rezina , Kaminski Monica , Ankireddypalli Arvind , Duddempudi Sushil , Chow Jonathan , Giashuddin Shah
Published: March 2015

Metastatic adenocarcinoma to the breast from an extramammary site is extremely rare. In the literature, the most current estimate is that extramammary metastases account for only 0.43% of all breast malignancies and that, of these extramammary sites, colon cancer metastases form a very small subset. Most commonly seen metastasis in breast is from a contralateral breast carcinoma, followed by metastasis from hematopoietic neoplasms, malignant melanoma, sarcoma, lung, prostate, and ovary and gastric neoplasms. Here we present two rare cases, in which colonic adenocarcinomas were found to metastasize to the breast. In both cases, core biopsies were obtained from the suspicious areas identified on mammogram. Histopathology revealed neoplastic proliferation of atypical glandular components within benign breast parenchyma which were morphologically consistent with metastatic adenocarcinoma. By immunohistochemical staining, it was confirmed that the neoplastic components were immunoreactive to colonic markers and nonreactive to breast markers, thus further supporting the morphologic findings. It is extremely important to make this distinction between primary breast cancer and a metastatic process, in order to provide the most effective and appropriate treatment for the patient and to avoid any harmful or unnecessary surgical procedures.
Navigating from a Depth Image Converted into Sound
Authors: Stoll Chloé , Palluel-Germain Richard , Fristot Vincent , Pellerin Denis , Alleysson David , Graff Christian
Published: March 2015

Background.Common manufactured depth sensors generate depth images that humans normally obtain from their eyes and hands. Various designs converting spatial data into sound have been recently proposed, speculating on their applicability as sensory substitution devices (SSDs).Objective.We tested such a design as a travel aid in a navigation task.Methods.Our portable device (MeloSee) converted 2D array of a depth image into melody in real-time. Distance from the sensor was translated into sound intensity, stereo-modulated laterally, and the pitch represented verticality. Twenty-one blindfolded young adults navigated along four different paths during two sessions separated by one-week interval. In some instances, a dual task required them to recognize a temporal pattern applied through a tactile vibrator while they navigated.Results.Participants learnt how to use the system on both new paths and on those they had already navigated from. Based on travel time and errors, performance improved from one week to the next. The dual task was achieved successfully, slightly affecting but not preventing effective navigation.Conclusions.The use of Kinect-type sensors to implement SSDs is promising, but it is restricted to indoor use and it is inefficient on too short range.
Vibration Analysis of Steel-Concrete Composite Box Beams considering Shear Lag and Slip
Authors: Wangbao Zhou , Shu-jin Li , Lizhong Jiang , Shiqiang Qin
Published: March 2015

In order to investigate dynamic characteristics of steel-concrete composite box beams, a longitudinal warping function of beam section considering self-balancing of axial forces is established. On the basis of Hamilton principle, governing differential equations of vibration and displacement boundary conditions are deduced by taking into account coupled influencing of shear lag, interface slip, and shear deformation. The proposed method shows an improvement over previous calculations. The central difference method is applied to solve the differential equations to obtain dynamic responses of composite beams subjected to arbitrarily distributed loads. The results from the proposed method are found to be in good agreement with those from ANSYS through numerical studies. Its validity is thus verified and meaningful conclusions for engineering design can be drawn as follows. There are obvious shear lag effects in the top concrete slab and bottom plate of steel beams under dynamic excitation. This shear lag increases with the increasing degree of shear connections. However, it has little impact on the period and deflection amplitude of vibration of composite box beams. The amplitude of deflection and strains in concrete slab reduce as the degree of shear connections increases. Nevertheless, the influence of shear connections on the period of vibration is not distinct.
Experimental Investigation on the Mechanical Behavior of Bovine Bone Using Digital Image Correlation Technique
Authors: Chen Yuxi , Yang Diansen , Ma Yongshang , Tan XianJun , Shi Zhan , Li Taoran , Si Haipeng
Published: March 2015

In order to understand the fracture mechanisms of bone subjected to external force well, an experimental study has been performed on the bovine bone by carrying out the three-point bending test with 3D digital image correlation (DIC) method, which provides a noncontact and full field of displacement measurement. The local strain and damage evolution of the bone has been recorded real time. The results show that the deflection measured by DIC agrees well with that obtained by the displacement sensor of the mechanical testing machine. The relationship between the deflection and the force is nearly linear prior to reaching the peak strength which is about 16 kN for the tested bovine tibia. The full-field strain contours of the bone show that the strain distribution depends on not only the force direction, but also the natural bone shape. The natural arched-shape bovine tibia bone could bear a large force, due to the tissue structure with high strength, and the fracture propagation process of the sample initiates at the inner side of the bone first and propagates along the force direction.
A Critical Characteristic in the Transverse Galloping Pattern
Authors: Wei Xiaohui , Long Yongjun , Wang Chunlei , Wang Shigang
Published: March 2015

Transverse gallop is a common gait used by a large number of quadrupeds. This paper employs the simplified dimensionless quadrupedal model to discuss the underlying mechanism of the transverse galloping pattern. The model is studied at different running speeds and different values of leg stiffness, respectively. If the horizontal running speed reaches up to a critical value at a fixed leg stiffness, or if the leg stiffness reaches up to a critical value at a fixed horizontal speed, a key property would emerge which greatly reduces the overall mechanical forces of the dynamic system in a proper range of initial pitch angular velocities. Besides, for each horizontal speed, there is an optimal stiffness of legs that can reduce both the mechanical loads and the metabolic cost of transport. Furthermore, different body proportions and landing distance lags of a pair of legs are studied in the transverse gallop. We find that quadrupeds with longer length of legs compared with the length of the body are more suitable to employ the transverse galloping pattern, and the landing distance lag of a pair of legs could reduce the cost of transport and the locomotion frequency.
Size Effects in Residual Stress Formation during Quenching of Cylinders Made of Hot-Work Tool Steel
Authors: Schemmel Manuel , Prevedel Petri , Schöngrundner Ronald , Ecker Werner , Antretter Thomas
Published: March 2015

The present work investigates the residual stress formation and the evolution of phase fractions during the quenching process of cylindrical specimens of different sizes. The cylinders are made of hot-work tool steel grade X36CrMoV5-1. A phase transformation kinetic model in combination with a thermomechanical model is used to describe the quenching process. Two phase transformations are considered for developing a modelling scheme: the austenite-to-martensite transformation and the austenite-to-bainite transformation. The focus lies on the complex austenite-to-bainite transformation which can be observed at low cooling rates. For an appropriate description of the phase transformation behaviour nucleation and growth of bainite are taken into account. The thermomechanical model contains thermophysical data and flow curves for each phase. Transformation induced plasticity (TRIP) is modelled by considering phase dependent Greenwood-Johnson parameters for martensite and bainite, respectively. The influence of component size on residual stress formation is investigated by the finite element package Abaqus. Finally, for one cylinder size the simulation results are validated by X-ray stress measurements.
Adrenal Tumors with Unexpected Outcome: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Kerkhofs Thomas M. , Roumen Rudi M. , Demeyere Thomas B. , van der Linden Antoine N. , Haak Harm R.
Published: March 2015

The finding of an adrenal mass should induce a diagnostic work-up aimed at assessing autonomous hormone production and differentiating between benign and (potentially) malignant lesions. The common differential diagnosis in adrenal incidentaloma consists of (non-)functioning adenoma, pheochromocytoma, myelolipoma, metastasis, and primary carcinoma. There remains a category of lesions that are hormonally inactive and display nonspecific imaging characteristics. We provide a succinct literature review regarding pathologies from this category. Imaging and histological characteristics are discussed, as well as clinical management. In conclusion, an adrenal mass may present a diagnostic challenge. After exclusion of most common diagnoses, it can be difficult to differentiate between possible pathologies based on preoperative diagnostic tests. Surgical resection of possibly harmful tumors is indicated, for example, lesions with malignant potential or risk of spontaneous hemorrhage. Resection of an obviously benign lesion is not necessary, unless problems due to tumor size are expected.
Examination of Experimental Designs and Response Surface Methods for Uncertainty Analysis of Production Forecast: A Niger Delta Case Study
Authors: Arinkoola Akeem O. , Ogbe David O.
Published: March 2015

The purpose of this paper is to examine various DoE methods for uncertainty quantification of production forecast during reservoir management. Considering all uncertainties for analysis can be time consuming and expensive. Uncertainty screening using experimental design methods helps reducing number of parameters to manageable sizes. However, adoption of various methods is more often based on experimenter discretions or company practices. This is mostly done with no or little attention been paid to the risks associated with decisions that emanated from that exercise. The consequence is the underperformance of the project when compared with the actual value of the project. This study presents the analysis of the three families of designs used for screening and four DoE methods used for response surface modeling during uncertainty analysis. The screening methods (sensitivity by one factor at-a-time, fractional experiment, and Plackett-Burman design) were critically examined and analyzed using numerical flow simulation. The modeling methods (Box-Behnken, central composite, D-optima, and full factorial) were programmed and analyzed for capabilities to reproduce actual forecast figures. The best method was selected for the case study and recommendations were made as to the best practice in selecting various DoE methods for similar applications.
Improving Preclinic Preparation for Patients with Chronic Conditions in Quito, Ecuador: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rodriguez K. , Kaselitz E. , Wong J. , Ligard S. , Peck D. , Hugo Mena V. , Gordillo F. , Serlin D. , Heisler M.
Published: March 2015

Objectives. As in many settings, patients in community health centers in Ecuador do not complete previsit forms or receive assistance to identify questions and concerns they would like to address in brief clinic visits with physicians. We examined the comparative effectiveness of providing (1) a previsit form to complete; (2) a previsit form along with assistance in completing the form; and (3) usual care. Methods. Parallel, three-arm randomized controlled trial in two health centers serving indigent to low-income communities in Quito, Ecuador, among 199 adult patients who took medications for at least one chronic condition. Outcome measures were self-reported satisfaction with the visit, confidence in asking questions, and extent to which patients’ objectives were met. Results. Patients who received assistance in completing a previsit form were more than twice as likely as participants in usual care to report achieving everything they wanted during their visit (AOR 2.2, P=0.039). There were no differences in any outcomes between the groups who received the previsit form with no assistance and usual care. Conclusions. For high-quality patient-centered primary care, it is important to develop and test innovative and scalable interventions for patients and physicians to make the best use of limited clinic time.
Joint Effect of CFH and ARMS2/HTRA1 Polymorphisms on Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Chinese Population
Authors: Fang Kai , Gao Pei , Tian Jun , Qin Xueying , Yu Wenzhen , Li Juan , Chen Qing , Huang Lvzhen , Chen Dafang , Hu Yonghua , Li Xiaoxin
Published: March 2015

Purpose. The etiology of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) cannot be completely explained by identified environmental risk factors or single-locus gene variants. This study was to explore the potential interactions among gene variants on nAMD in Chinese population.Methods. 43 SNPs located in different genes were genotyped in 932 Chinese individuals (464 nAMD patients and 468 controls). We explored the potential interactions among gene variants using generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction (GMDR) algorithm and the method to measure the departure from the additivity model.Results. The joint effect that involvedCFHrs1061170 andHTRA1rs3793917 was shown statistically significant (P< 0.001) with the highest cross-validation consistency (10/10) and the best testing balanced accuracy (64.50%). In addition, based on the method to measure the departure from the additivity model, the synergy index (S) was 2.63 (1.09–6.38) and the attributable proportion due to interaction (AP) was 55.7% (21.4%–89.9%), which suggested that a common pathway may exist for these genes for nAMD. Those who carried CC for rs3793917 and TC/CC for rs1061170 were at the highest risk of nAMD (OR: 9.76, 95% CI: 4.65–20.51).Conclusions. Evidence that the joint effect that involvedCFHandARMS2/HTRA1may contribute to the risk of neovascular AMD in Chinese population was obtained.
Link Reliability Based Greedy Perimeter Stateless Routing for Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks
Authors: Shelly Siddharth , Babu A. V.
Published: March 2015

We propose an enhancement for the well-known greedy perimeter stateless routing (GPSR) protocol for vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs), which exploits information about link reliability when one-hop vehicles are chosen for forwarding a data packet. In the proposed modified routing scheme, a tagged vehicle will select its one-hop forwarding vehicle based on reliability of the corresponding communication link. We define link reliability as the probability that a direct link among a pair of neighbour vehicles will remain alive for a finite time interval. We present a model for computing link reliability and use this model for the design of reliability based GPSR. The proposed protocol ensures that links with reliability factor greater than a given threshold alone are selected, when constructing a route from source to destination. The modified routing scheme shows significant improvement over the conventional GPSR protocol in terms of packet delivery ratio and throughput. We provide simulation results to justify the claim.
First-in-Human Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Study of the Dual m-TORC 1/2 Inhibitor AZD2014
Authors: Basu Bristi , Dean Emma , Puglisi Martina , Greystoke Alastair , Ong Michael , Burke Wendy , Cavallin Maria , Bigley Graham , Womack Christopher , Harrington Elizabeth A. , Green Stephen , Oelmann Elisabeth , de Bono Johann S. , Ranson Malcolm , Banerji Udai
Published: March 2015

Purpose: AZD2014 is a novel, oral, m-TORC 1/2 inhibitor that has shown in vitro and in vivo efficacy across a range of preclinical human cancer models.

Experimental Design: A rolling six-dose escalation was performed to define an MTD (part A), and at MTD a further cohort of patients was treated to further characterize toxicities and perform pre- and posttreatment biopsies (part B). AZD2014 was administered orally twice a day continuously. Flow cytometry, ELISA, and immunohistochemistry were used to quantify pharmacodynamic biomarkers. Pharmacokinetic analysis was carried out by mass spectrometry.

Results: A total of 56 patients were treated across a dose range of 25 to 100 mg. The MTD was 50 mg twice daily. The dose-limiting toxicities were fatigue and mucositis. At the MTD, the most common adverse events (AE) were fatigue (78%), nausea (51%), and mucositis (49%), but these were equal to or greater than grade 3 in only 5% of patients. Drug levels achieved at the MTD (AUCss 6686 ng·h/mL, Cmax ss 1,664 ng/mL) were consistent with activity in preclinical models. A reduction in p-S6 levels and Ki67 staining was observed in 8 of 8 and 5 of 9 evaluable paired biopsy samples. Partial responses were seen in a patient with pancreatic cancer and a patient with breast cancer, who were found to have a PDGFR and ERBB2 mutation, respectively.

Conclusions: The recommended phase II dose for further evaluation of AZD2014 is 50 mg twice daily, and at this dose it has been possible to demonstrate pharmacologically relevant plasma concentrations, target inhibition in tumor, and clinical responses. Clin Cancer Res; 21(15); 3412–9. ©2015 AACR.
SPINK1 Status in Colorectal Cancer, Impact on Proliferation, and Role in Colitis-Associated Cancer
Authors: Ida Satoshi , Ozaki Nobuyuki , Araki Kimi , Hirashima Kotaro , Zaitsu Yoko , Taki Katsunobu , Sakamoto Yasuo , Miyamoto Yuji , Oki Eiji , Morita Masaru , Watanabe Masayuki , Maehara Yoshihiko , Yamamura Ken-ichi , Baba Hideo , Ohmuraya Masaki
Published: March 2015

Colorectal cancer is a major cause of deaths due to cancer; therefore, research into its etiology is urgently needed. Although it is clear that chronic inflammation is a risk factor for colorectal cancer, the details remain uncertain. Serine protease inhibitor, Kazal type 1 (SPINK1) is mainly produced in pancreatic acinar cells. However, SPINK1 is expressed in various cancers and in inflammatory states, such as colon cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. There are structural similarities between SPINK1 and epidermal growth factor (EGF). Hence, it was hypothesized that SPINK1 functions as a growth factor for tissue repair in inflammatory states, and if prolonged, acts as a promoter for cell proliferation in cancerous tissues. Here, immunohistochemical staining for SPINK1 was observed in a high percentage of colorectal cancer patient specimens and SPINK1 induced proliferation of human colon cancer cell lines. To clarify its role in colon cancer in vivo, a mouse model exposed to the colon carcinogen azoxymethane and nongenotoxic carcinogen dextran sodium sulfate revealed that Spink3 (mouse homolog of SPINK1) is overexpressed in cancerous tissues. In Spink3 heterozygous mice, tumor multiplicity and tumor volume were significantly decreased compared with wild-type mice. These results suggest that SPINK1/Spink3 stimulates the proliferation of colon cancer cells and is involved in colorectal cancer progression.

Implications: Evidence suggests that SPINK1 is an important growth factor that connects chronic inflammation and cancer. Mol Cancer Res; 13(7); 1130–8. ©2015 AACR.
High-Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol, Daily Estradiol and Progesterone, and Mammographic Density Phenotypes in Premenopausal Women
Authors: Flote Vidar G. , Frydenberg Hanne , Ursin Giske , Iversen Anita , Fagerland Morten W. , Ellison Peter T. , Wist Erik A. , Egeland Thore , Wilsgaard Tom , McTiernan Anne , Furberg Anne-Sofie , Thune Inger
Published: March 2015

High-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) may influence the proliferation of breast tumor cells, but it is unclear whether low HDL-C levels, alone or in combination with cyclic estrogen and progesterone, are associated with mammographic density, a strong predictor of breast cancer development. Fasting morning serum concentrations of HDL-C were assessed in 202 premenopausal women, 25 to 35 years of age, participating in the Norwegian Energy Balance and Breast Cancer Aspects (EBBA) I study. Estrogen and progesterone were measured both in serum, and daily in saliva, throughout an entire menstrual cycle. Absolute and percent mammographic density was assessed by a computer-assisted method (Madena), from digitized mammograms (days 7–12). Multivariable models were used to study the associations between HDL-C, estrogen and progesterone, and mammographic density phenotypes. We observed a positive association between HDL-C and percent mammographic density after adjustments (P = 0.030). When combining HDL-C, estradiol, and progesterone, we observed among women with low HDL-C (<1.39 mmol/L), a linear association between salivary 17β-estradiol, progesterone, and percent and absolute mammographic density. Furthermore, in women with low HDL-C, each one SD increase of salivary mid-menstrual 17β-estradiol was associated with an OR of 4.12 (95% confidence intervals; CI, 1.30–13.0) of having above-median percent (28.5%), and an OR of 2.5 (95% CI, 1.13–5.50) of having above-median absolute mammographic density (32.4 cm2). On the basis of plausible biologic mechanisms linking HDL-C to breast cancer development, our findings suggest a role of HDL-C, alone or in combination with estrogen, in breast cancer development. However, our small hypothesis generating study requires confirmation in larger studies. Cancer Prev Res; 8(6); 535–44. ©2015 AACR.
Genetic and Phenotypic Characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus Isolates from Cystic Fibrosis Patients in Austria
Authors: Masoud-Landgraf Lilian , Johler Sophia , Badura Alexandra , Feierl Gebhard , Luxner Josefa , Wagner-Eibel Ute , Eber Ernst , Zarfel Gernot , Grisold Andrea J.
Published: March 2015

Background: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common life-limiting inherited disease in Caucasian populations. While pathological changes can be seen in various organs, morbidity and mortality are mainly related to the respiratory tract, with patients suffering from chronic bronchopulmonary infections with characteristic pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus.Objectives: To date, there is only very limited data on the genetic and phenotypic characteristics of S. aureus in CF patients. Therefore, in our study, we characterized 58 S. aureus isolates collected from CF patients in Austria by spa typing, DNA microarray profiling, as well as antimicrobial susceptibility testing in order to determine common genomic and antimicrobial resistance features. The tested strain collection exhibited high genomic diversity. Results: The 58 isolates were assigned to 16 clonal complexes and 48 spa types and differed greatly regarding their virulence and resistance gene profiles. The predominant clonal complexes were MLST CC30 (22%), CC15 (16%), CC45 (14%), and CC5 (12%), complexes that are highly prevalent worldwide among S. aureus strains isolated from humans colonized or infected with S. aureus. DNA microarray profiles showed a wide variety of genes encoding antimicrobial resistance and virulence factors such as various leukocidins, haemolysins, enterotoxins, exfoliative toxins, toxic shock syndrome toxin, as well as genes involved in adhesion and immune evasion. Conclusions: While a large number of strains exhibited resistance to one or several antimicrobial agents, methicillin-resistant S. aureus was found at a low prevalence of 3% (n = 2) only. The two methicillin-resistant S. aureus isolates were assigned to CC152/t355 (SCCmecV) and CC5/t001 (SCCmecI). This is the first study to genetically characterize S. aureus isolates in CF patients in Austria.
Policies Allowing Family Presence During Resuscitation and Patterns of Care During In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Goldberger Zachary D. , Nallamothu Brahmajee K. , Nichol Graham , Chan Paul S. , Curtis J. Randall , Cooke Colin R.
Published: March 2015

Background—

A growing number of hospitals have begun to implement policies allowing for family presence during resuscitation (FPDR). However, the overall safety of these policies and their effect on resuscitation care is unknown.

Methods and Results—

We conducted an observational cohort study of 252 hospitals in the United States with 41 568 adults with cardiac arrest. Multivariable hierarchical regression models were used to evaluate patterns of care at hospitals with and without an FPDR policy. Primary outcomes included return of spontaneous circulation and survival to discharge. Secondary outcomes included resuscitation quality, interventions, and facility-reported potential resuscitation systems errors. There were no significant differences in facility characteristics between hospitals with and without an FPDR policy, nor were there significant differences in return of spontaneous circulation (adjusted risk ratio, 1.02; 95% confidence interval, 0.95–1.06) or survival to discharge (adjusted risk ratio, 1.05; 95% confidence interval, 0.95–1.15). There was a small, borderline significant decrease in the mean time to defibrillation at hospitals with an FPDR policy compared with hospitals without the policy (mean difference, 0.32 minutes; 95% confidence interval, −0.01 to 0.64). Resuscitation quality, interventions, and facility-reported potential resuscitation systems errors did not meaningfully differ between hospitals with and without an FPDR policy.

Conclusions—

Hospitals with an FPDR policy generally have no statistically significant differences in outcomes and processes of care as hospitals without this policy, suggesting such policies may not negatively affect resuscitation care. Further study is warranted about the direct effect of FPDR attempts on adult patients with an in-hospital cardiac arrest and their families.
Re-membering the Dismembered
Authors: Parker Julie Faith
Published: March 2015

This article examines the function of dismemberment in four stories of female figures from ancient Near Eastern literature. Using the tools of feminist literary analysis, I explore the tales of Levite’s concubine (Judges 19), Jezebel (2 Kgs 9:30-37), Anat (KTU 1.3 ii; iii 1-2; 1.6 ii 28-37), and Isis (myth of Isis and Osiris). Comparison between the demise of the Levite’s concubine and Jezebel points to the shared significance of their dismemberment, despite the women’s vastly different societal positions. The discussion then focuses on two goddesses: Anat in Ugaritic narrative poetry and Isis in Egyptian mythology, showing their strength in scenes of dismemberment. Despite differences in divinity and power, all four women can be joined by their connection to dismemberment, whether as a victim, perpetrator, or restorer. This article reveals how dismemberment in these stories serves to strengthen androcentric hegemony while nonetheless challenging assumed gender stereotypes.