bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cosensitization of Ruthenium–Polypyridyl Dyes with Organic Dyes in Dye-sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Numata Youhei , Zhang Shufang , Yang Xudong , Han Liyuan 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Cosensitization, a technique involving sensitization of a metal-oxide semiconductor electrode with two or more different dyes, is a promising strategy to enhance light-harvesting capabilities of dye-sensitized solar cells through expansion of the light absorption range. In this review, we introduce recent developments in highly efficient solar cells cosensitized by ruthenium–polypyridyl and organic dyes. Design strategies for cosensitizer molecules, development of UV and NIR cosensitizers, and performances of reported cosensitized solar cells are reviewed. Cosensitization is an effective method to improve the conversion efficiencies, as not only photocurrent but also photovoltage can be increased by employing an appropriate cosensitizer.
Horizontal Mergers, Firm Heterogeneity, and R&D Investments
Authors: Matsushima Noriaki , Sato Yasuhiro , Yamamoto Kazuhiro 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
We investigate the incentive and welfare implications of a merger when heterogeneous oligopolists compete both in process R&D and on the product market. We examine how a merger affects the output, investment, and profits of firms. In addition, we examine whether firms have merger incentives, and, if so, whether such mergers are desirable from the viewpoint of social welfare. If R&D is not expensive and if large cost differences between efficient and inefficient firms exist, a merger between homogeneous firms tends to occur even though it harms welfare.
Voltage THD Improvement for an Outer Rotor Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine
Authors: de la Cruz Javier , Ramirez Juan M. , Leyva Luis 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
This article deals with the design of an outer rotor Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machines (PMSM) driven by wind turbines. The Voltage Total Harmonic Distortion (VTHD) is especially addressed, under design parameters’ handling, i.e., the geometry of the stator, the polar arc percentage, the air gap, the skew angle in rotor poles, the pole length and the core steel class. Seventy-six cases are simulated and the results provide information useful for designing this kind of machines. The study is conducted on a 5 kW PMSM.
Fabrication of hemp fiber-reinforced green composites with organoclay-filled poly(butylene succinate) matrix by pultrusion process
Authors: Li Jing , Ben Goichi , Yang Junhe 
Published: August 2013

AbstractHemp fiber-reinforced green composites with organoclay-filled poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) matrix were fabricated by pultrusion process. Morphological studies revealed that the clay particles were intercalated/partially exfoliated when the clay content was lower than 6 wt%. The tensile modulus and strength of PBS/25% hemp composites were 15 and 2.9 times of the neat PBS. By adding organoclay to the PBS/hemp composites, the tensile properties of the hybrid composites generally reflected the similar change with the organoclay modified PBS matrix. Upon certain duration of environmental exposure, the degradation of tensile properties of hemp/organoclay/PBS hybrid composites was retarded compared with hemp/PBS composites.
Zur Grammatik des Verstehens im Gespräch: Inferenzen anzeigen und Handlungskonsequenzen ziehen mit also und dann
Authors: Deppermann Arnulf , Helmer Henrike 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
The paper studies how the German connectives also and dann are
used as displays of understanding in talk-in-interaction. It is shown that the
use of also at turn-beginnings in pre-front-field position is a routine practice to
explicate implicit meanings of the prior turn of the partner, which is presented
for confirmation. Also thus indexes that explicated meanings are taken to be
intersubjective, i.e. part of the interlocutors’ common ground. Turn-initial dann
(in front-field position), in contrast, is routinely used to (a) index the formulation
of a unilateral inference from the partner’s prior turn which is not claimed
to have already been communicated by the partner, and is (b) used to preface
different kinds of next actions which are framed as being a consequence from
the preceding action of the partner. Drawing on data from four genres of talkin-
interaction (conversation, psychotherapy, doctor-patient interaction, broadcasted
talk shows), the paper discusses how functions of also and dann are
related to their positions concerning turn-construction and topological fields,
prosodic design, collocations, sequential structures and participation frameworks
of the interaction.
New Approach for Selecting Crumb-Rubber-Modified Asphalts for Rutting and Permanent Deformation Resistance
Authors: Ragab MohyElDin , Abdelrahman Magdy , Ghavibazoo Amir 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
In the current research, the introduction of a new selecti on approach for crumb-rubber-modified asphalts (CRMA), based on their rutting and permanent deformation resistance, is carried out. This new approach involves selecting CRMA according to their rheological properties [complex modulus (G*) and phase angle (δ) values] by utilizing a proposed three-dimensional (3D) parametric diagrams approach. This was carried out for the different asphalt and crumb-rubber (CR) types investigated. Three-dimensional parametric diagrams for both the G* and δ were constructed through controlling the interaction time, speed, and temperature for the CRMA synthesis. This was carried out to illustrate the combined effect of interaction speed and temperature, with the increase of interaction time, on the produced rutting and permanent deformation resistance properties of CRMA. It was found that, for all the asphalt types investigated, the utilization of a high interaction mixing speed of 50 Hz with a medium interaction temperature (190°C) for the mixing of cryogenic processed CR with asphalt produced the best results in terms of complex modulus (G*) and phase angle (δ) values. For ambient processed CR, on the other hand, the utilization of a low interaction temperature (160°C), with both interaction speeds utilized (10 and 30 Hz), produced enhanced properties (G* and δ) for the CRMA. Based on the results obtained in this research, the new selection approach presents an efficient way to provide an expected profile for the asphalt in-service required properties with relation to their synthesis conditions.
Effects of Frequent Hemodialysis on Ventricular Volumes and Left Ventricular Remodeling
Authors: Chan Christopher T. , Greene Tom , Chertow Glenn M. , Kliger Alan S. , Stokes John B. , Beck Gerald J. , Daugirdas John T. , Kotanko Peter , Larive Brett , Levin Nathan W. , Mehta Ravindra L. , Rocco Michael , Sanz Javier , Yang Phillip C. , Rajagopalan Sanjay 
Published: August 2013

Summary

Background and objectives
Higher left ventricular volume is associated with death in patients with ESRD. This work investigated the effects of frequent hemodialysis on ventricular volumes and left ventricular remodeling.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements
The Frequent Hemodialysis Network daily trial randomized 245 patients to 12 months of six times per week versus three times per week in-center hemodialysis; the Frequent Hemodialysis Network nocturnal trial randomized 87 patients to 12 months of six times per week nocturnal hemodialysis versus three times per week predominantly home-based hemodialysis. Left and right ventricular end systolic and diastolic volumes, left ventricular mass, and ejection fraction at baseline and end of the study were ascertained by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. The ratio of left ventricular mass/left ventricular end diastolic volume was used as a surrogate marker of left ventricular remodeling. In each trial, the effect of frequent dialysis on left or right ventricular end diastolic volume was tested between predefined subgroups.

Results
In the daily trial, frequent hemodialysis resulted in significant reductions in left ventricular end diastolic volume (−11.0% [95% confidence interval, −16.1% to −5.5%]), left ventricular end systolic volume (−14.8% [−22.7% to −6.2%]), right ventricular end diastolic volume (−11.6% [−19.0% to −3.6%]), and a trend for right ventricular end systolic volume (−11.3% [−21.4% to 0.1%]) compared with conventional therapy. The magnitude of reduction in left and right ventricular end diastolic volumes with frequent hemodialysis was accentuated among patients with residual urine output<100 ml/d (P value [interaction]=0.02). In the nocturnal trial, there were no significant changes in left or right ventricular volumes. The frequent dialysis interventions had no substantial effect on the ratio of left ventricular mass/left ventricular end diastolic volume in either trial.

Conclusions
Frequent in-center hemodialysis reduces left and right ventricular end systolic and diastolic ventricular volumes as well as left ventricular mass, but it does not affect left ventricular remodeling.
Dying on Dialysis
Authors: Schmidt Rebecca J. , Moss Alvin H. 
Published: August 2013

Summary
Acceleration of comorbid illness in patients undergoing long-term maintenance hemodialysis may be manifested by clinical deterioration that is subtle and not immediately life-threatening. Nonetheless, it is emotionally debilitating for patients and families in addition to being medically and ethically challenging for treating nephrologists. A marked decline in clinical status warrants review of the balance of benefits to burdens dialysis is providing to a given patient and should trigger conversation about the option of withdrawal using an individualized patient-centered, rather than disease-oriented, approach. This paper presents a rationale for and an objective approach to initiating and managing dialysis withdrawal for patients who wish to withdraw because of unsatisfactory quality of life and those (many with significant cognitive impairment) for whom withdrawal is deemed appropriate because the burdens of continuing treatment substantially outweigh the benefits.
Effects of Exercise and Lifestyle Intervention on Cardiovascular Function in CKD
Authors: Howden Erin J. , Leano Rodel , Petchey William , Coombes Jeff S. , Isbel Nicole M. , Marwick Thomas H. 
Published: August 2013

Summary

Background and objectives
CKD is associated with poor cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). This predefined substudy determined the effect of exercise training and lifestyle intervention on CRF and explored the effect on cardiovascular risk factors and cardiac and vascular function.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements
Between February 2008 and March 2010, 90 patients with stage 3–4 CKD were screened with an exercise stress echocardiogram before enrollment. Patients (n=83) were randomized to standard care (control) or lifestyle intervention. The lifestyle intervention included multidisciplinary care (CKD clinic), a lifestyle program, and aerobic and resistance exercise training for 12 months. CRF (peak V[Combining Dot Above]O2), left ventricular function, arterial stiffness, anthropometric, and biochemical data were collected at baseline and 12 months.

Results
Ten percent of randomized patients had subclinical myocardial ischemia at screening and completed the study without incident. There was no baseline difference among 72 patients who completed follow-up (36 in the lifestyle intervention group and 36 in the control group). The intervention increased peak V[Combining Dot Above]O2 (2.8±0.7 ml/kg per minute versus −0.3±0.9 ml/kg per minute; P=0.004). There was small weight loss (−1.8±4.2 kg versus 0.7±3.7 kg; P=0.02) but no change in BP or lipids. Diastolic function improved (increased e’ of 0.75±1.16 cm/s versus −0.47±1.0 cm/s; P=0.001) but systolic function was well preserved and did not change. The change in arterial elastance was attenuated (0.11±0.76 mmHg/ml versus 0.76±0.96 mmHg/ml; P=0.01). Δ peak V[Combining Dot Above]O2 was associated with group allocation and improved body composition.

Conclusions
Exercise training and lifestyle intervention in patients with CKD produces improvements in CRF, body composition, and diastolic function.
Neighborhood Socioeconomic Status and Barriers to Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Prakash Suma , Perzynski Adam T. , Austin Peter C. , Wu C. Fangyun , Lawless Mary Ellen , Paterson J. Michael , Quinn Rob R. , Sehgal Ashwini R. , Oliver Matthew James 
Published: August 2013

Summary

Background and objectives
The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between neighborhood socioeconomic status and barriers to peritoneal dialysis eligibility and choice.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements
This study was a mixed methods parallel design study using quantitative and qualitative data from a prospective clinical database of ESRD patients. The eligibility and choice cohorts were assembled from consecutive incident chronic dialysis patients entering one of five renal programs in the province of Ontario, Canada, between January 1, 2004 and December 31, 2010. Socioeconomic status was measured as median household income and percentage of residents with at least a high school education using Statistics Canada dissemination area-level data. Multivariable models described the relationship between socioeconomic status and likelihood of peritoneal dialysis eligibility and choice. Barriers to peritoneal dialysis eligibility and choice were classified into qualitative categories using the thematic constant comparative approach.

Results
The peritoneal dialysis eligibility and choice cohorts had 1314 and 857 patients, respectively; 65% of patients were deemed eligible for peritoneal dialysis, and 46% of eligible patients chose peritoneal dialysis. Socioeconomic status was not a significant predictor of peritoneal dialysis eligibility or choice in this study. Qualitative analyses identified 16 barriers to peritoneal dialysis choice. Patients in lower- versus higher-income Statistics Canada dissemination areas cited built environment or space barriers to peritoneal dialysis (4.6% versus 2.7%) and family or social support barriers (8.3% versus 3.5%) more frequently.

Conclusions
Peritoneal dialysis eligibility and choice were not associated with socioeconomic status. However, socioeconomic status may influence specific barriers to peritoneal dialysis choice. Additional studies to determine the effect of targeting interventions to specific barriers to peritoneal dialysis choice in low socioeconomic status patients on peritoneal dialysis use are needed.
Evaluation of costs and time required for laparoscopic-assisted versus open cystotomy for urinary cystolith removal in dogs: 43 cases (2009–2012)
Authors: Arulpragasam Shiara P. , Case J. Brad , Ellison Gary W. 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Objective—To compare required time and costs of surgery and hospitalization as well as prevalence of incomplete urinary cystolith removal associated with laparoscopic-assisted cystotomy versus open cystotomy in dogs.
Design—Retrospective case series.
Animals—20 dogs with urolithiasis treated by laparoscopic-assisted cystotomy and 23 dogs treated by open cystotomy.
Procedures—Medical records were reviewed. Surgery cost, hospitalization cost, total cost, surgery time, days in hospital, incomplete cystolith removal, and number of doses of analgesic administered IV after surgery were compared between the laparoscopic-assisted cystotomy and open cystotomy groups.
Results—Surgery cost and total cost were significantly higher in the laparoscopic-assisted cystotomy group. Hospitalization cost, days in hospital, and prevalence of incomplete cystolith removal did not differ significantly between groups. Number of doses of analgesic was significantly lower in the laparoscopic-assisted cystotomy group.
Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Laparoscopic-assisted cystotomy was more time-consuming and expensive but associated with fewer postoperative doses of injectable analgesics, compared with open cystotomy. Laparoscopic-assisted cystotomy is an acceptable, more expensive, and minimally invasive alternative to open cystotomy for the removal of urinary cystoliths in dogs.
Suspected carprofen toxicosis caused by coprophagia in a dog
Authors: Hutchins Rae G. , Messenger Kristen M. , Vaden Shelly L. 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Case Description—A 1-year-old spayed female mixed-breed dog was evaluated because of urinary incontinence, polyuria, polydipsia, and minimally concentrated urine.
Clinical Findings—Markedly high circulating alanine transaminase activity, mildly high circulating alkaline phosphatase activity, and low urine specific gravity were detected for the dog. Results of ultrasonographic examination of the abdomen and cytologic examination of liver samples were unremarkable. Carprofen was detected in serum and plasma samples obtained from the dog. Exposure to carprofen was attributed to ingestion of feces of another dog in the household that was receiving the drug daily.
Treatment and Outcome—Access to feces of other dogs in the household was prevented; no other treatment was initiated. Urinary incontinence, polyuria, and polydipsia resolved, and urine specific gravity increased within 7 days following discontinuation of consumption of feces. Alanine transaminase activity was substantially lower than the value determined during the initial examination, and alkaline phosphatase activity was within the reference range 5 weeks after discontinuation of consumption of feces by the dog.
Clinical Relevance—Findings for the dog of this report suggested that carprofen toxicosis can be caused by consumption of feces of another dog receiving the drug. This cause of adverse effects should be a differential diagnosis for dogs with clinical signs and clinicopathologic abnormalities consistent with carprofen toxicosis.
Prevalence and characteristics of tinnitus in individuals with auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder
Authors: Chandan H. S. , Prabhu Prashanth , Deepthi Mahadeva 
Published: August 2013

Objective:
Tinnitus is one of the reported complaints in individuals with Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder (ANSD). The study highlights the prevalence of tinnitus and its characteristics in individuals with ANSD.

Study design:
The study consisted of 95 patients with tinnitus out of 149 individuals with ANSD. The overall prevalence, laterality and gender effect was studied in these 95 patients. The study also reports on the subjective nature of tinnitus in 23 subjects and its relationship with the configuration of the audiogram.

Results:
The prevalence of tinnitus was found to be around 67%, mostly bilateral (89.5%) and seen more often in females (70.52%). The subjective pitch was low-pitched in individuals with low frequency hearing loss and the perceived pitch was high with a flat configuration of loss.

Conclusion:
Our results show prevalence of tinnitus is more than 50% in individuals with ANSD and the tinnitus matched with the individual's frequency of maximal hearing loss.
Effect of antiplatelet therapy on thromboembolism after flow diversion with the Pipeline Embolization Device
Authors: Heller Robert S. , Dandamudi Venkata , Lanfranchi Michael , Malek Adel M. 
Published: August 2013

Object
Flow-diverting stents offer a novel treatment approach to intracranial aneurysms. Data regarding the incidence of acute procedure-related thromboembolic complications following deployment of the Pipeline Embolization Device (PED) remain scant. The authors sought to determine the rate of embolic events in a bid to identify potential risk factors and assess the role of platelet inhibition.

Methods
Data in all patients receiving a PED for treatment of an intracranial aneurysm were prospectively maintained in a database. Diffusion-weighted 3-T MRI was performed within 24 hours of PED deployment. The incident rate of procedural embolism was established, and univariate analysis was then performed to determine any associations of embolic events with measured variables. The degree of platelet inhibition in response to aspirin and clopidogrel was evaluated by challenging the platelet samples with arachidonic acid and adenosine diphosphate, respectively, and then performing formal light transmission platelet aggregometry.

Results
Twenty-three patients with 26 aneurysms were eligible for inclusion in the study. Thirty-one PEDs were deployed in 25 procedures. All ischemic lesions detected on diffusion-weighted 3-T MRI were identified as embolic based on their location and distribution, with none appearing to be due to perforator artery occlusion. Procedural embolic events were found in the target parent vessel territory in 13 (52%) of 25 procedures, with no patients harboring lesions contralateral to the deployed PED. The number of embolic events per procedure ranged from 3 to 16, with a mean of 5.4. There was no significant difference between cases with and without procedural embolism in platelet inhibition by aspirin (mean 15% vs 12% residual activation; p = 0.28), platelet inhibition by clopidogrel (mean 41% vs 41% residual activation; p = 0.98), or intraprocedural heparin-induced anticoagulation (mean activated clotting time 235 seconds vs 237 seconds; p = 0.81). By multivariate analysis, the authors identified larger aneurysm size (p = 0.03) as the single variable significantly associated with procedural embolism. There was no significant relationship between aneurysm size and the number of embolic events (p = 0.32) or the total burden of the embolism lesion area (p = 0.53).

Conclusions
Acute embolism following use of the PED for treatment of intracranial aneurysms is more common than hypothesized. The only identifiable risk factor for embolism appears to be greater aneurysm size, perhaps indicating significant disturbed flow across the aneurysm neck with ingress and egress through the PED struts. The strength of antiplatelet therapy, as measured by residual platelet aggregation, did not appear to be associated with cases of procedural embolism. Further work is needed to determine the implications of these findings and whether anticoagulation regimens can be altered to lower the rate of complications following PED deployment.