Search

In the study, the role of political stability in the economic growth-budget balance relationship is examined using panel threshold regression analysis. In this context, annual data of the European Union countries and Türkiye for the period 2002- 2020 are used for analysis. The results of the fixed effects model show that the relationship between economic growth and budget balance is positive and non-linear. Panel threshold regression analysis results emphasize that political stability is important in the relationship between budget balance and economic growth. Improvements in the budget balance below and above the threshold value positively affect economic growth. However, it is observed that the positive effect of improvements in budget balance on economic growth is stronger when the political stability in the countries is below the threshold value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to optimize the key parameters (mesh count, paper type and ink type) in screen printing, which are affecting the printed ink volume. The objective of the optimization was to maximize the color reliability by decreasing the color difference (ΔE value) of the prints while minimizing the ink consumption. Screen printing is still dominating the printing industry to make cost-effective production when high volumes are needed. Design/methodology/approach: The experiment was designed using the Taguchi method, and the samples were prepared with screen-printing by using the standard squeegee angle and pressure. The effect of mesh count, ink type and paper type on ink consumption was evaluated with using analysis of variances and main effects plots of S/N ratio and standard deviation. Findings: The factors ink type, paper type and mesh count were found significant for ink consumption due to their Probability (P) values which were lower than 0.05. It was determined that the mesh count was the most critical variable with the analysis of variance. The analysis showed that the selection of an optimum mesh count was the key to controlling the amount of the deposited ink. Although mesh counts were inversely proportional with the ink consumptions, they did not affect the color differences as expected. Originality/value: The optimization of process parameters, that are most effective on the print quality, is necessary to minimize the ink usage and lower the costs and environmental impact without exceeding the desired ΔE value limits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This CFD and statistical article aims to evaluate the impact of fluid type and flow mass rate on the log-mean temperature difference (ΔTLM) and the heat transfer coefficient (Ushell) in a double tube heat exchanger (DPHEX) using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and statistical analysis. ANSYS Fluent software was utilized to conduct CFD calculations. CFD analyses were implemented using Taguchi L8 orthogonal array containing two variables such as the fluid types and the flow mass rates. The levels of fluid types were considered as water-liquid, ethylene-glycol, engine-oil, and benzene-liquid. The levels of fluid types were decided as 1.1 kg/s to 1.5 kg/s. To determine the optimal levels of variables and their impacts on the ΔTLM and Ushell in DPHEX, analysis of Signal to Noise (S/N) ratio was employed. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was also utilized to decide the effective variables and their percentage contribution rates on the outcomes. The CFD result obtained using the optimum levels of variables were compared with Taguchi estimation result. According to the study, the highest effects were obtained using ethylene-glycol, engine-oil, water-liquid, and benzene-liquid on the highest log-mean temperature difference values, respectively. In addition, the highest heat transfer coefficient values were found utilizing water-liquid, benzene-liquid, ethylene-glycol, and engine-oil, respectively. Increasing flow mass rate from 1.1 kg/s to 1.5 kg/s causes an increase in both outcomes. The study provides a reference for resolving issues that may arise in the production of experimental DPHEXs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was carried out to determine effect of environment on fiber quality in cotton grown in the Efeler and Söke areas of Aydın province, Bergama, Menemen, Torbalı areas of İzmir province, Sarayköy area of Denizli province, Milas area of Muğla province, Akhisar area of Manisa province,in the Aegean Region of Turkey in 2020.In this study Gloria variety was used as research material.The experiment was arranged as randomized complete plots design. The effect of locations on nep count, nep size, ginning percentage, fiber strength, fiber fineness, fiber length, uniformity index of fiber length, maturity degree of fiber, fiber elongation, short fiber content, yellowness rate of fiber, fiber brightness, trash count in fiber, were found to be significant. The effect of locations on 100 seed weight were found to be insignificant. In the study, it was determined that 100 seed weight was not affected by environmental conditions, while other characteristics were affected by environmental conditions. It was determined that the cotton grown in Söke area was most highest in terms of ginning percentage, maturity degree of fiber, yellowness rate of fiber, trash count in fiber, nep count and nep size. Menemen area gave the highest value in terms of fiber length, uniformity index of fiber length, fiber fineness and fiber elongation. The treatments of uniformity index of fiber length, short fiber content and trash count of cotton fiber were highest obtained in Bergama and Efeler areas. Torbalı and Efeler areas gave as highest as maturity degree of fiber the cotton grown in Söke area. Milas area showed similarly the highest value in terms of fiber fineness as compared Menemen. The cotton in Bergama area belongs to the highest value in terms of fiber strength and fiber brightness.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, electrophotographic printing and inkjet printing systems were applied to some commercial A4 office papers and their effects on print quality were determined. It is to evaluate the print quality by determining the test parameters that measure the print quality by applying electrophotographic printing and inkjet printing systems to some commercial office papers that have determined the surface properties and optical properties supplied from the market. Print quality was measured by testing with parameters such as delta gloss 60°, print lightness, print chroma, print density. As a result of the tests determined for print quality; print density values were low in A4 office papers with high roughness and porosity values, and the specular gloss values of the samples decreased in both printing applications. In electrophotographic printing; it was determined that darker colors formed with print lightness parameter, and the color scale increases in two-sided printing with print chroma values. It was determined that the color scale of print chroma values increased in two-sided prints. It was determined that mostly some commercial office papers were positively affected by printing on one side in inkjet printing and by printing on two-sided in electrophotographic printing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this numerical and statistical study, the effect of mass flow rates for shell and fluid temperature for tube on temperature and pressure drops was analyzed in double pipe heat exchanger under counterflow. Numerical calculations were performed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in ANSYS Fluent. Calculations were carried out according to the L8 orthogonal array with two control factors in accordance with Taguchi method. Although the different mass flow rates of the fluid passing through the shell were chosen as the first control factor, different fluid temperatures of the fluid passing through the tube were selected for the second control factor. Signal-to-noise ratio analysis was used to decide the impacts and optimum levels of the mass flow rates and fluid temperatures on temperature and pressure drop. The significance levels and contribution percentages of each variable on the temperature and pressure change occurring in the heat exchanger were calculated using analysis of variance. The accuracy of the analyses was compared numerically and statistically by comparing the obtained optimum CFD results with the estimated Taguchi results. This study can be used as a guiding research in the project and cost calculations of heat exchangers to be produced experimentally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topology optimization studies have found widespread use with advances in additive manufacturing technologies. A topology optimization method is proposed for the design of a fatigue critical part, namely, a pitch arm made of Al 7050, which transmits the commands to change the pitch attitude to the rotor blades of the helicopter. This study used the bidirectional evolutionary structural optimization (BESO) method with the fatigue failure criterion of a closed Soderberg (CS). The mean stress and stress amplitude values used in the procedure were obtained by applying the Manson-McKnight method. The calculations were performed using a Python-based script compatible with Ansys version 2021 R1 software. In the finite-element calculations, the sensitivity number of the elements was determined using the results of the linear static analysis. A volume constraint was applied in the formulation of the optimization problem to minimize the weight of the structure. The results of the classical topology optimization approach and the developed optimization method were compared. The final geometries of both approaches showed that the ranges of volume reduction differed from each other. It was found that the values for the new fatigue-optimized weight of the pitch arm were 18% higher than the values for the static-based classical topology optimization method. However, in general, the weight of the part obtained as a result of fatigue-based topology optimization was reduced by 34% in total. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is significant to immerse tech-savvy English language learners in interactive learning environments in order to maximize their comprehension and verbal communication. This quasi-experimental study set out to elucidate the effect of a learning management system (LMS) on speaking fluency and listening skill development among intermediate students. A total of 50 Turkish-speaking students from two intact classes were assigned into a control and an experimental group that utilized an interactive platform for learning English in 8 weeks. The study adopted a pre and posttest design. The mean listening and speaking posttest scores of both groups were compared according to effect size, analysis of covariance, paired sample t -test, and independent samples t -test. In addition, students' perceptions regarding the impact of LMS on these two skills were investigated with a questionnaire and an interview. The results showed that there was a significant difference between the two groups as the experimental group surpassed the control group in both speaking fluency and listening posttest. Participants also reported from the questionnaire and the interviews that they held positive evaluations of LMS as a result of elevating both language skills. The contribution of the study lies in providing an innovative solution to promote learners' speaking fluency and listening skill. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to provide an overview of the current state-of-the-art in the fabrication of bioceramic scaffolds for bone tissue engineering, with an emphasis on the use of three-dimensional (3D) technologies coupled with generative design principles. The field of modern medicine has witnessed remarkable advancements and continuous innovation in recent decades, driven by a relentless desire to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Central to this progress is the field of tissue engineering, which holds immense promise for regenerative medicine applications. Scaffolds are integral to tissue engineering and serve as 3D frameworks that support cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation. A wide array of materials has been explored for the fabrication of scaffolds, including bioceramics (i.e., hydroxyapatite, beta-tricalcium phosphate, bioglasses) and bioceramic–polymer composites, each offering unique properties and functionalities tailored to specific applications. Several fabrication methods, such as thermal-induced phase separation, electrospinning, freeze-drying, gas foaming, particle leaching/solvent casting, fused deposition modeling, 3D printing, stereolithography and selective laser sintering, will be introduced and thoroughly analyzed and discussed from the point of view of their unique characteristics, which have proven invaluable for obtaining bioceramic scaffolds. Moreover, by highlighting the important role of generative design in scaffold optimization, this review seeks to pave the way for the development of innovative strategies and personalized solutions to address significant gaps in the current literature, mainly related to complex bone defects in bone tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the level of satisfaction in gynecological cancer patients and to increase the awareness of the disease in the community. This descriptive study was carried out on 280 patients treated at our Gynecological Oncology Center between May 2018 and January 2019. As a data collection tool, descriptive information and satisfaction questionnaire were prepared by the researchers based on the literature and the demographic parameters of the patients were asked. In the analysis of the data: descriptive statistics, t test, Mann Whitney U Test and Spearman correlation coefficient were used in SPSS 25.0 statistical program. It was understood that 51.4% of the participants did not hear this type of cancer before being diagnosed. It was learned that 61.4% of the participants did not have any routine screening program against cervical and/or breast cancer. 42.1% of the participants did not know the tests and 39.3% of them did not know that they did not have access. 85.7% of the cancer patients who participated in the study received the disease-related diagnosis from the gynecologist. 33.4% of the patients stated that it took a long time to diagnose. 46.4% of the patients stated that they had not been informed by the doctor about their illness and options. In addition, 49.3% of the patients were not satisfied with the approach taken in this information and 50.7% wanted to obtain more effective and comprehensive information. Patients' expectations from the doctors are more understanding, better communication with the patient, receiving emotional support, and decision-making about the disease and treatment is also the time for the doctor to support the patient, to respect him, to spend more time. The patients think that the health personnel have difficulty in giving information about the treatment process and its side effects, the likelihood of recurrence of the disease, the effects of the disease on the psychological state, prognosis, how long the treatment will take and what the disease is and why. For this reason, patients feel themselves lacking. It is important for health personnel to inform the patient, to listen to the patient and to support them in all stages of the disease and treatment, and to support the survival of this chronic disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Turgut Uyar, one of the most important poets of the Second New, adopts a new and different literary understanding both in technical terms and in terms of poetry with "Dünyanın En Güzel Arabistanı" (1959), which he published after his first books "Arz-ı Hal" (1949) and "Türkiyem" (1952) bearing the features of traditional poetry. Along with his third book, which features the features of Uyar's Second New Poem, he has developed a new poetic discourse and is beginning to approach the world in a different way of perception. This second period, which deals with the problems of the modern city and the individual with a new system of language and intelligence, is an important breakthrough in Turgut Uyar's poetry adventure. With this period Turgut Uyar's poetry and restlessness brought about modernism, the individual seeks to escape to a kind of nature against the sensation of encirclement in the city. This poetic discourse of Uyar's anti-modernity is embodied in his poems with some specific images and concepts. In this article, Uyar's poems will discuss which aspects of modernity are criticized and how they will be criticized and will focus on the critical aspects of this critical language. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays technology develops rapidly and the customer requirements (CRs) on product increase. Therefore, the CRs change continuously and are more important than past so that product design is more important than past. Firms, which manufacture the washing machines used commonly, must consider the CRs to have the market share. One of the CRs is ergonomic ease of use. This paper aims to improve on technical characteristics in an ergonomic washing machine design according to the CRs and the capacity of the firm. This paper proposes an integrated approach, which consists of quality function deployment (QFD) method and fuzzy multi-objective linear programming (FMOLP) method, for an ergonomic washing machine design. QFD method defines the relation between the CRs and technical characteristics. This result presents the importance degrees of technical characteristics for an ergonomic washing machine design but this result is defined according to only the CRs. Firm can meet with some problems in terms of time and cost due to neglecting of the capacity of the firm thus the firm can fall behind in market competitive. The firm considers different objectives such as maximizing the CRs, minimizing the cost and minimizing the time for an ergonomic washing machine design. This paper proposes two FMOLP methods, which consist of Zimmermann and hybrid approaches, to overcome this drawback so that the obtained results are compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to establish an occupational health and safety policy for three firms. This paper provides to overcome the drawbacks of traditional FMEA (failure mode and effects analysis) by using an integrated intuitionistic fuzzy multi-criteria decision making method and a linear programming. Priority value of criteria has been defined by utilizing intuitionistic fuzzy analytic hierarchy process method and the highest risky failure mode among failure modes has been found by utilizing intuitionistic fuzzy VIKOR (VIsekriterijumska optimizacija i KOm-promisno Resenje). The application of risk evaluation is conducted to show the effectiveness of the proposed method in three firms. The reliability of the risk ranking is verified by helping of a sensitivity analysis and the advantages of the proposed approach are shown by comparing with the other methods. The managers of the firm present some limitations for the occupational health and safety policy so that these constraints are solved by helping of a linear programming. The results show that destroying of the existing steel ropes during production of plaster, risks that caused from work equipment and electric shock during cutting were determined the highest risky failure modes for construction, textile and metal firms, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of this study was to investigate and discover whether going through the process of reflection by keeping reflective design journals (RDJ) enhances architecture students' metacognition and whether this enhanced metacognition improves their design understandings and skills. The study was a mixed-methods design and utilised content analysis method to identify the metacognitive actions of the participants. The study also investigated participants' attitudes towards RDJs and their views regarding the effect of enhanced metacognition on their design understandings and skills. Twenty college students registered to an undergraduate course offered by the department of Architecture participated in the research. The findings of the study revealed that by writing in their RDJs, participants were able to progressively enhance their metacognitive skills and performed several metacognitive actions by using the four main metacognitive strategies: awareness, organisation and planning, monitoring, and evaluation. The results also disclosed that participants found RDJ keeping exceptionally effective and stated that their enhanced metacognition improved their design understanding and abilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper were investigated spectroscopic studies of 5-bromo-1h benzimidazole (5Br1HB) with FT-Raman and FTIR spectral techniques. To produce a tables of vibrational spectra, Mulliken and NMR analysis, density functional theory (DFT) calculations with B3LYP/6-311+G(d,p) level of theory were calculated for optimized structure. Features of the electronic structure (HOMO-LUMO and molecular electrostatic potential surface (MEP)) of 5Br1HB were performed using TD-DFT/B3LYP/6-311+G(d,p) method. The theoretical values with the experimental values showed very good agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six sigma approach is one of the most important approaches to compete with ever increasing quality expectations in the manufacturing and services sectors. In the context of this study, a lean six sigma literature research is conducted and as a result of the findings was carried out a six sigma implementation to a problem in defense industry. Six sigma study was conducted using DMAIC steps, SIPOC diagrams, measurement systems analysis, hypothesis testing, root cause analysis tool to achive the expected Cp, Cpk values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate left ventricular systolic and diastolic function using speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) in order to detect subclinical left ventricular dysfunction in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Twenty-six AS patients (age 43.7 ± 11.8 years, disease duration 11.83 ± 10.98 years) and 26 healthy controls, matched for age, sex, body mass index, and smoking, were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. All patients underwent two-dimensional, Doppler, tissue Doppler, and speckle tracking echocardiography. The mitral early/late diastolic inflow velocity ratio (1.0 ± 0.4 vs. 1.5 ± 0.5; p < 0.001) and the mitral E-wave velocity (8.1 ± 2 vs. 11.1 ± 3; p < 0.001) were lower in the AS patients than in the controls. The ejection fraction did not differ between the patients and controls (64 ± 4.2 vs. 64.8 ± 2.3; p = 0.402). All segments showed a significant decrease in left ventricular diastolic and systolic strain values in the patients with AS when compared with the healthy controls ( p < 0.001). Despite no clinical evidence of cardiovascular disease, patients with AS may have impaired left ventricular systolic function as assessed by STE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated whether English language teachers were aware of the innovative language learning methodologies in language learning, how they made use of these methodologies and the leaners' reactions to them. The descriptive survey method was employed to disclose the frequencies and percentages of 175 English language teachers' responses. Findings revealed that almost all of the English language teachers knew Communicative Language Learning Methodology, but very few of them were aware of other 19 innovative language learning methodologies. Language teachers who made use of the innovative language learning methodologies found them effective. Similarly, language learners as well gave positive feedback about the implementations of these methodologies in their classes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aims to assess subclinical atherosclerosis markers such as epicardial fat thickness, carotid intima media thickness (CIMT), and aortic stiffness index (ASI) in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients as well as to investigate the relationship between the subclinical atherosclerosis markers and disease activity/function/mobility indices. Patients and methods: Twenty-six AS patients (22 males, 4 females; mean age 43 years) and 26 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (21 males, 5 females; mean age 43 years) were included. Patients and controls with any reported cardiovascular disease or other comorbidities were excluded. Disease activity, functional capacity and spinal mobility were measured using the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index, and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index, respectively. All patients underwent complete transthoracic echocardiographic examination including epicardial fat thickness and ASI, and sonographic examination including CIMT. Results: There were no significant differences in demographical and cardiovascular characteristics between AS patients and healthy controls (p>0.05). Epicardial fat thickness (5.15±1.13 vs. 4.11±1.22; p=0.003), CIMT (0.70±0.16 vs. 0.60±0.10; p=0.012) and ASI (14.2±10.8 vs. 8.6±3.1; p=0.018) were significantly increased in patients with AS compared to the healthy controls. There was no significant correlation between the subclinical atherosclerosis markers and disease activity/function/mobility indices (p>0.05). Conclusion: A significantly increased epicardial fat thickness, CIMT, and ASI were observed in AS patients compared with healthy controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aims to assess subclinical atherosclerosis markers such as epicardial fat thickness, carotid intima media thickness (CIMT), and aortic stiffness index (ASI) in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients as well as to investigate the relationship between the subclinical atherosclerosis markers and disease activity/function/mobility indices. Patients and methods: Twenty-six AS patients (22 males, 4 females; mean age 43 years) and 26 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (21 males, 5 females; mean age 43 years) were included. Patients and controls with any reported cardiovascular disease or other comorbidities were excluded. Disease activity, functional capacity and spinal mobility were measured using the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index, and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index, respectively. All patients underwent complete transthoracic echocardiographic examination including epicardial fat thickness and ASI, and sonographic examination including CIMT. Results: There were no significant differences in demographical and cardiovascular characteristics between AS patients and healthy controls (p>0.05). Epicardial fat thickness (5.15±1.13 vs. 4.11±1.22; p=0.003), CIMT (0.70±0.16 vs. 0.60±0.10; p=0.012) and ASI (14.2±10.8 vs. 8.6±3.1; p=0.018) were significantly increased in patients with AS compared to the healthy controls. There was no significant correlation between the subclinical atherosclerosis markers and disease activity/function/mobility indices (p>0.05). Conclusion: A significantly increased epicardial fat thickness, CIMT, and ASI were observed in AS patients compared with healthy controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue Doppler Imaging (TDI) and TDI-derived strain provide considerably accurate information in the non-invasive assessment of local myocardial functions. Given its high temporal and spatial resolution, TDI allows assessment of local myocardial functions in each phase of cardiac cycle. However, the most important limitation of this method is its angle dependence. New techniques to measure myocardial deformation, such as speckle tracking echocardiography, overcome the angle-dependence limitation of TDI-derived strain. Moreover, these techniques provide more unique information about myocardial fiber orientation. This review examines the architectural structure and function of the myocardium and includes technical revisions of this information that will provide a basis for STE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the results of a study conducted to explore the effects of collaborative assessment. Forty college students studying at the English Language Teaching Department participated in the study. During the study the participants were briefed about the principles and practices of collaborative and self-assessment and were given the criteria developed in line with the course requirements. They were also informed that at the end of the course they would have the opportunity to evaluate their performance with their instructor. All participants were allocated 15 minutes to justify their mark by referring to their language learning experience in class, discuss it with their instructors and finally agree on a joint mark with their instructors. After the evaluation, the participants were interviewed and were asked four questions about the process of collaborative assessment. The answers and the comments of the participants about the process constituted the main part of this qualitative research. The analysis of the results suggests that the research participants find the entire process very successful and functional. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aimed to investigate left atrium (LA) function by speckle tracking echocardiography in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetSyn) and to show a possible relationship between the severity of MetSyn and LA function and to determine the predictors of low strain in MetSyn patients. Methods: Our study design was observational and cross-sectional design consisted of 80 MetSyn patients without overt diabetes and 50 controls. The patients were classified into three groups based on the number of MetSyn criteria. The peak LA strain at the end of the ventricular systole (LAs-strain) as well as the LA strain with LA contraction (LAa-strain) was obtained. Correlation analysis performed to assess the association of LA strain parameters with the severity of MetSyn and logistic regression analysis performed to assess the relationship of low LA strain with MetSyn. Results: Both LAs (37.5±8.7 vs. 26.0±10.2, p<0.001) and LAa (19.9±6.3 vs. 13.0±6.4, p<0.001) strain measurements were found to be significantly decreased in patients with MetSyn when compared to the control group. Moreover, both LAs and LAa were found to be significantly decreased with the increasing severity of the MetSyn. A multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the presence of MetSyn [OR:0.26 (95% CI 0.06-0.89), p=0.032] and left ventricular ejection fraction [OR:1.14 (95% CI 1.03-1.27), p=0.021] were independent predictors of LAs strain. Conclusion: MetSyn is associated with reduced LAs strain and LAa strain representing LA reservoir and pump function, respectively. Furthermore, LA mechanical function decreases even more with the increasing severity of the MetSyn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diamond-like carbon films have found various areas of application due to their particularly durable characteristics. To enhance the electrical and optoelectronic characteristics of the material, diamond-like carbon was co-deposited with Ge on p-type Si wafer using the DC magnetron sputtering technique, from which diamond-like carbon-germanium nanocomposites were obtained. The structural properties of the nanocomposites were assessed using electron microscopy techniques. The chemical structure of the nanocomposite films was confirmed using energy dispersive spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The electrical properties of the nanocomposite films were investigated via various electrical parameters as determined through current-voltage, capacitance–voltage, and conductance–voltage graphs. Photoresponsive and photosensitivity properties were also assessed using a solar simulator at various illumination intensities. It was concluded that nanocomposite thin films were responsive to light, where photosensitivity and photoresponsivity increased with increasing illumination intensity. The electrical characteristics of the nanocomposite films were associated with the frequency of the AC voltage applied. • Diamond like carbon-Germanium (DLC-Ge) nanostructures were fabricated. • Opeoelectronic characteristics of DLC-Ge nanostructures were investigated. • Barrier height was calculated. • Electrical properties of DLC-Ge structures were investigated. • Illumination intensity related photoresponse were obtained. • Illumination intensity related photosensitivity were obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the formation of the occupational pain and diseases related to healthcare workers, not only the principles of prevention and posture but also environmental ergonomic factors play a significant role. Therefore, one of the most important precautions be taken in a hospital environment is to create an ergonomic patient care system, which improves the quality of life for the patients and health professionals, compatible with the physical, social and psychological characteristics of human beings. The quality of assurance, psychology, sociology and communication sciences related with human factors should be developed in compliance with the health care system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Exercise training has been known to cause structural and functional alterations in the heart called athletes heart. We aimed to investigate the effects of incremental endurance exercise training (IEET) on the left ventricular (LV) mechanics in healthy subjects. Methods: This prospective observational study included 34 healthy young men who participated in competitive sports. The participants were subjected to a six-month IEET program. The LV mechanics measured using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography was recorded while the participants were in an inactive state before and at the end of the six months. To compare continuous variables before and after IEET, Wilcoxon or paired-t test were used. Results: Baseline and post training echocardiographic measurements showed that there was no significant change in LV ejection fraction (%) (p=0.64) and there were an increase in end-systolic and end-diastolic diameters, posterior and septal wall thickness, relative wall thickness and LV mass index (p<0.05, for all). LV mechanical parameters such as global strain (S) (19.8±1.33% vs. 20.4±1.26%, p=0.001), apical four -chamber S (19.4±1.96% vs. 20.1 ±1.86%, p=0.01), apical two- chamber S (19.9±1.75% vs. 20.7±1.75%, p=0.003), apical (23.0+3.1% vs. 23.6±3.2%, p=0.03), and basal circumferential S (21.1±2.2 % vs. 21.6+2.5%, p=0.03), and apical rotation (degree) (7.9±0.95 vs. 8.4±0.74, p=0.001 ) values were significantly increased by IEET. Conclusion: We demonstrated that IEET has led to exercise related cardiac structural and functional changes such as LV dilatation and LV hypertrophy, accompanied by a significant increase in LV systolic S and LV twist measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Boron is important for many enzymes, most of which also have a role in the ischemic tolerance of the myocardium. We aimed to evaluate the influence of dietary boron intake on ischemic tolerance in a rat model. Materials and methods: Rats were divided into 3 groups according to the ischemia protocol: Sham (S) (n = 20 total), ischemia only (Isc-only) (n = 40 total), and remote ischemic preconditioning + ischemia (RIPC+Isc) (n = 40 total) groups. These 3 groups were further divided into 4 according to the amount of daily dietary boron (<1 mg/kg, 2 mg/kg, 13 mg/kg, and 100 mg/kg). After 4 weeks of this diet, the rats were operated on, and baseline hemodynamic data and postoperative blood serum were obtained. Results: Troponin I (Tn I) levels were lower in the RIPC+Isc group than in the Isc-only group (P < 0.01), whereas Tn I levels were not different among the dietary groups (P = 0.725). The Tn I levels were higher in the RIPC+Isc and in the Isc-only group than in the S group (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: Boron in diets did not influence the extent of myocardial injury in the groups. Furthermore, dietary boron does not deteriorate the response of the most potent endogenous mechanism of the heart against ischemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of pars plan vitrectomy and heavy silicone oil tamponade in eyes with inferior retinal detachment. Material and Method: Eighteen eyes that underwent pars plana vitrectomy and heavy silicone oil (Densiron) tamponade were evaluated retrospectively. Twenty-gauge vitrectomy was performed and heavy silicon oil was introduced at the conclusion of the surgery. Patients were examined postoperatively at 1 day, 1 week, and monthly intervals. Silicon was removed in suitable eyes during the study period. Best-corrected visual acuity, ocular tension measurements, and biomicroscopic examinations were performed. Final visual and anatomic results were recorded. Results: The median age of the patients was 43 (range: 16-67) years. Associate ocular pathology to the inferior detachments were dropped nucleus (n=2), complicated uveitis (n=1), degenerative myopia (n=2), penetrating trauma (n=2), and blunt ocular trauma (n=3). Eight (44%) eyes had previous unsuccessful detachment surgery. Anatomic success was achieved in 16 (88%) eyes at a mean of 11.76 months (range: 5- 21) of follow-up. Visual acuity was improved in 4 eyes, stabilized in 12 eyes, and worsened in 2 eyes. Postoperative hypotony developed in one eye, and oil emulsification developed in 2 eyes. Discussion: Use of heavy silicone oil (Densiron) tamponade is effective and safe in eyes with inferior retinal detachment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is well known that right ventricular (RV) dysfunction occurs early before clinical systemic congestion in patients with mitral stenosis (MS). Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the role of two-dimensional (2D) strain imaging in the assessment of subclinical RV dysfunction. Methods: Fifty-nine patients with isolated MS (mild and moderate) and 31 healthy control subjects constituted the study population. RV peak longitudinal strain (RV-LS) and strain rate (RV-LSr) measurements were obtained from apical four-chamber view. Results: There were no significant differences in left ventricular ejection fraction (LV-EF) and RV fractional area change between control and MS groups. RV strain (23.5 ± 7.2 vs. 18.63 ± 6.3, P = 0.001) and RV strain rate (1.72 ± 0.54 vs. 1.37 ± 0.66, P = 0.01) measurements were significantly lower in patients with MS than the control group. However, RV strain and strain rate measurements were comparable between MS subgroups. Correlation analysis revealed that there was poor correlation between RV-LS/LSr and mean-maximum gradients and echoscore but moderate correlation between RV-LS and RV-Sr in systolic pulmonary artery pressure and planimetric mitral valve area. Conclusion: We demonstrated that patients with MS had lower RV functions using 2D strain imaging and this is independent from severity of MS. In the detection of subclinical RV dysfunction in patients with MS, 2D strain imaging appears to be useful. (Echocardiography, 2012;00:1-6) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of red cell distribution width (RDW) on the electrocardiographic no-reflow phenomenon in patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: One-hundred consecutive patients (mean age 61.3 ± 12.8 years and male 77%) with ST-elevation myocardial infarction, who were treated with primary PCI, were analyzed prospectively. RDW and high sensitive C reactive protein (hs-CRP) were measured. The sum of ST-segment elevation was obtained immediately before and 60 min after the restoration of coronary flow. The difference between two measurements was accepted as the amount of ST-segment resolution and was expressed as ∑STR. ∑STR < 50% was accepted as electrocardiographic sign of no-reflow phenomenon. Results: There were 30 patients in the no-reflow group (Group 1) and 70 patients in the normal re-flow group (Group 2). RDW and hs-CRP levels on admission were higher in Group 1. An RDW level ≥14% measured on admission had 70% sensitivity and 64% specificity in predicting no-reflow on ROC curve analysis. Mid-term cardiovascular events were significantly higher in Group 1. In multivariate analyses, RDW (OR 2.93, <95% CI 1.42–6.04; p = 0.004), and tirofiban (OR 0.16, <95% CI 0.05–0.48; p = 0.001) were independent predictors of no-reflow, and RDW (OR 5.89, <95% CI 1.63–21.24; p = 0.007), and creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) on admission (OR 1.01, <95% CI 1.00–1.02; p = 0.006) were independent predictors of mid-term mortality. Conclusions: A greater baseline RDW value was independently associated with the presence of electrocardiographic no-reflow. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: In this study, we aimed to evaluate our clinical experience about the catheter ablation of atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) including complications and long-term outcomes. Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of 166 patients with AVNRT, 52 of whom from hospital-1 and 114 of who from hospital-2. Radio-frequency (RF) ablation therapy was applied after the basic electrophysiology study. Complications in RF ablation and long-term recurrences were noted. Results: More than 90% of the patients had symptoms persisting for more than one year and again more than 90% of those were suffering at least 2 episodes per month. The success rate of RF ablation was 98.2% for the entire study population. The recurrence rate was observed to be 3% (n=5) throughout the follow-up period. In the multivariate Cox regression analysis; young age, operator's experience (Hospital 1 vs. 2), and presence of atypical AVNRT were the independent predictors of long-term recurrence. Major complications related to AVNRT ablation are not encountered frequently. Death, myocardial infarction and stroke were not seen in any of the patients, however, two patients developed deep vein thrombosis. Minor complications in RF ablation included asymptomatic minimal/ mild pericardial effusion (n=5), femoral hematoma requiring no transfusion (n=5) and transient AV block (n=5). Atrio-ventricular block requiring permanent pacemaker implantation was found only in one patient (0.6%). Conclusion: Radio-frequency catheter ablation in patients with AVNRT appears to be a safe and effective method. The presence of atypical AVNRT, young age and operator's experience were observed to be the independent predictors of long-term recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The objective of the study was to evalu- ate the relationship of epicardial fat thickness (EFT) assessed by echocardiography with atrial fibrillation (AF) in a clinical setting. Materials and methods: The study consisted of 58 AF patients who underwent echocardiography and a control group of 22 participants. The EFT thickness was mea- sured on the free wall of the right ventricle from the parasternal long-axis view. The association between EFT and AF was studied by adjusting the risk factors for AF, including structural valvular diseases and multiple risk factors. Results: EFT was significantly increased in patients with AF as compared to participants in the control group (6.5 ± 1.2 mm vs. 5.8 ± 1.0 mm, p=0.01). In subgroup analysis of different types of AF, EFT was significantly increased in permanent AF in relation to paroxysmal and persistent AF (6.8 ± 0.9 mm vs. 6,0 ± 1.2 mm and 5.8±1.2 respectively). In addition, EFT measurements were comparable between sinus rhythm, paroxysmal and persistent AF. Conclusions: Epicardial fat thickness measured by echocardiography seems to be associated with the chronicity of AF. J Clin Exp Invest 2012; 3(1): 13-17 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Although there have been a considerable number of reports about BNP levels in patients with mitral stenosis (MS), the relationship between the brain natriuretic peptid (BNP) level and the severity of MS is not investigated extensively in patients with sinus rhythm. In this study we aimed to evaluate plasma BNP levels in patients with MS and to determine the relation of BNP levels with the anatomic and physiological severity of MS. Materials and methods: Ninety six patients with isolated rheumatic MS and 40 healthy control subjects (group 1) constituted the study population. The patients with MS were classified as those with mild MS (45 patients, group 2), moderate MS (31 patients, group 3) and severe MS (20 patients, group 4). All subjects underwent a detailed echocardiography and venous blood was drawn for BNP levels. Results: Patients with MS had significantly higher BNP levels than control subjects. In addition, the analysis with respect of the severity of MS showed that BNP levels increased significantly from group 1 through to group 4. In correlation analysis, while there was a good correlation between BNP levels with planimetric mitral valve area and pulmonary artery pressure, there was moderate correlation between BNP levels with left atrial diameter, mean and maximum gradients. Conclusion: We demonstrated that plasma BNP levels were correlated with echocardiographic parameters showing the severity of the MS. Natriuretic peptides might be useful in the clinical and echocardiographic evaluation of MS patients as an indicator of disease severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It has been shown that mitral stenosis (MS) impairs left ventricular (LV) systolic function; however, this issue has not been studied comprehensively. We aimed to evaluate the role of 2D strain in the assessment of subclinical LV systolic dysfunction in patients with MS. Methods: Seventy-two patients with isolated MS (mild, moderate and severe) and 31 healthy control subjects constituted the study population. 2D echocardiography images were obtained from LV apical 4-chamber (4C), long axis (LAX), and 2-chamber (2C) views. Peak longitudinal strain and strain rate (Sr) were obtained from 4C, LAX, and 2C views. Global strain and Sr were calculated by averaging the three apical views. Results: There were no significant differences in LV ejection fraction and LV systolic or diastolic dimensions between the groups. Patients with MS had significantly lower LV longitudinal strain and Sr measurements than the control group. In addition, there were no significant differences in MS subgroups with respect to LV strain and Sr measurements. Conclusion: We demonstrated that patients with MS had lower LV functions using 2D strain imaging, and this is independent of the hemodynamic severity of MS. In the detection of subclinical LV dysfunction in patients with MS, 2D strain imaging appears to be useful. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free-form or sculptured surface milling is one of the continually used manufacturing processes for die/mould, aerospace (especially turbine blades), precision machine design, bio-medical devices and automotive industries. Developments of machining technologies for quality enhancement of machining results have become a very important fact in current real industry. Therefore, reducing milling time, tool wear, cutter deflection and improving surface texture quality and machining operations through adaptation and optimisation of tool feedrates based on changing surface geometry in sculptured surface machining is a great step in this direction. Various feedrate optimisation strategies have different feedrate rescheduling control parameters such as chip thickness, material removal rate (MRR), min(mrr,chip,force), max(expo.Acc/dec) and resultant forces. Some commercial CAM softwares come with MRR-based feedrate optimisation algorithms which have a very short calculation time. However, commercial feedrate scheduling systems have some limitations in generating the scheduled feedrates because they use the MRR or the cutting force model which is dependent on milling conditions. However, for the processes in which machining precision/accuracy is very important, it is inevitable that mechanistic force-based feedrate optimisation approaches, for which the calculation time is improved, will be integrated into commercial CAM software packages. Here, developing only the mechanistic cutting force-based algorithm is not enough. In this paper, improvement and optimisation of machining feedrate value, which is one of the cutting parameters which has a tremendous effect on the precise machining of free-form surfaces, was discussed by using the virtual machining framework. For this purpose, the boundary representation solid modelling technique-based free-form milling simulation and feedrate optimisation system integrated with commercial CAD/CAM software is developed for three-axis ball-end milling. This review study includes the information regarding the following topics: The algorithms developed for the feedrate value optimisation, MRR calculation approaches, cutting force computation methods, details of algorithms, the effects on the surface accuracy, the effects on the machining time, the capabilities of the present commercial CAM software packages, the encountered difficulties and overcoming those difficulties, recent developments and future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the plastic injection molding process, one of the biggest challenges is shrinkage which deteriorates the quality of produced parts. To control and reduce this defect, the essential way is to perfectly determine the variables like molding parameters. In this study, the effects of molding parameters including packing pressure, melt temperature, and cooling time on shrinkage and roundness have been investigated experimentally. Also, the relationship among initial molding parameters, the cavity pressure, and mold temperature was investigated. The results of this experimental study and analysis fulfill various requirements of plastic injection molding and clarify the relationship between molding conditions and the overall quality of produced parts. This study illustrated that packing pressure and melt temperature are dominant factors which determine the quality of parts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), a marker of endothelial dysfunction leading to damaging vascular disorders, in umbilical and placental vascular tissue of gestational pregnancies was compared to non-diabetic controls. We included 32 pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and 28 women with normal ongoing pregnancies were taken as the control group. Pregnant women with GDM were selected from the ones who had glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) values lower from 6%. CD54/ICAM-1 expression profile was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, and cellular localization was determined under light microscopy. The immunoreactivity was assessed using a four-tiered scale: 0–5% (0), 6–20% (+1), 21–50% (+2), 51–100% (+3). In gestational diabetic patient’s umbilical artery, +1 immunostaining group was observed (62.5%), and in their placenta, the highest percentage was seen in the 0 immunostaining group (43.8%). Diabetic patient’s umbilical vein has the highest percentage in the +1 immunostaining group. In the control group, in both umbilical artery and vein, the highest percentage was seen in the +2 immunostaining group (46.4%) and their placenta has the +3 immunostaining group with the highest percentage (57.1%). The main outcome of our study was that, although underlying diabetes does have some effects on the pregnant mother, fears of endothelial dysfunction leading to damaging vascular disorders are probably unfounded in well-controlled GDM women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Reduction of the recoil forces on shotgun parts and even effects on the human body are a considerable importance during design of the semi-automatic shotgun parts. These forces are strongly affected by the dynamics of motion of rifle parts upon firing. Therefore, managing of these recoil forces would be crucial issue to produce functional, ergonomic, safe, reliable, and robust designs. In the literature, many researchers have investigated static, dynamic, and fatigue behaviors of most mechanical parts which especially take a role under the dynamic loads. However, shotgun parts have not been investigated formally yet. Therefore, in this study we particularly focused on investigating static, dynamic, and fatigue behaviors of a semi-automatic shotgun’s locking block, which is an integral part of the shotgun mechanism during firing. In this study, techniques such as hardness measurements, analysis of the recoil forces of a semi-automatic shotgun, and finite element analysis were performed. Pro/Engineer Wildfire 3.0 series software was used to model the locking block and the other parts of the gun. Moreover, the finite element code ANSYS/LS-DYNA, and ANSYS Workbench were used to determine the stress distribution, and fatigue behaviors of the locking block, based on the Morrow Theorem. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Today more than ever, the molding industry demands better product quality. The quality of molded parts is crucial with regard to their functional capacity, and hence a great deal of attention should be directed towards maintaining consistent tolerances and overall dimensions. As the demand for high quality final parts continues to increase, the controlling parameters of cavity pressure and mold temperature become ever more significant in the plastic injection molding process. Therefore, in this research, cavity pressure and mold surface temperature have been measured and recorded by pressure and temperature–pressure sensors using a Kistler CoMo 2869A injection-type apparatus. The influences of the measured factors on the quality of the final parts have been investigated experimentally. The results of this experimental study indicate that cavity pressure and mold temperature are the dominant factors determining the quality of the final product in plastic injection molding. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, the effect of the CO2 laser cutting process parameters (gas pressure, cutting speed, and laser power) on the dimensional accuracy and measured surface roughness of engineering plastic (PTFE and POM) materials was investigated. Cutting surface profile of specimens was examined by using an optical microscope. The surface quality of specimens was examined by measuring surface roughness and form error. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and regression analyses are employed to assess the effect of the process parameters on the dimensional accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the experimental and theoretical vibrational spectra of N1-methyl-2-chloroaniline (C7H8NCl) were studied. FT-IR and FT-Raman spectra of the title molecule in the liquid phase were recorded in the region 4000–400 cm-1 and 3500–50 cm-1, respectively. The structural and spectroscopic data of the molecule in the ground state were calculated by using density functional method (B3LYP) with the 6-311++G(d,p) basis set. The vibrational frequencies were calculated and scaled values were compared with experimental FT-IR and FT-Raman spectra. The observed and calculated frequencies are found to be in good agreement. The complete assignments were performed on the basis of the total energy distribution (TED) of the vibrational modes, calculated with scaled quantum mechanics (SQM) method. 13C and 1H NMR chemical shifts results were compared with the experimental values. The optimized geometric parameters (bond lengths and bond angles) were given and are in agreement with the corresponding experimental values of aniline and p-methyl aniline. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this work, the experimental and theoretical study on the structures and vibrations of 3,4-dichlorophenylboronic acid (3,4-dcpba, C6H3B(OH)2Cl2) are presented. The Fourier Transform Infrared spectra (4000–400cm−1) and the Fourier Transform Raman spectra (3500–5cm−1) of the title molecule in the solid phase have been recorded. There are four conformers for this molecule. The computational results diagnose the most stable conformer of 3,4-dcpba as the ct form. The geometrical parameters and energies have been obtained for all four conformers from DFT (B3LYP) with 6-311++G(d,p) basis set calculations. The vibrations of stable and unstable conformers of 3,4-dcpba are researched with the aid of quantum chemical calculations. The complete assignments were performed on the basis of the total energy distribution (TED) of the vibrational modes, calculated with scaled quantum mechanics (SQM) method. The molecular structures, vibrational frequencies, Infrared intensities and Raman scattering activities were calculated. The spectroscopic and theoretical results are compared. The optimized bond lengths, bond angles and calculated frequencies showed the excellent agreement with the experimental results. The theoretical spectrogram for the Infrared and Raman spectrum of the title molecule has been constructed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Satisfying customers’ affective needs is nowadays seen as a key point to designing a successful product. To ensure this, the relations between physical form elements and affective responses regarding the product should be quantified. In this article, a novel systematic approach is proposed to overcome this problem by representing the relation structure with “IF THEN” type fuzzy rules. A neuro-fuzzy method, named as NEuro-Fuzzy CLASSification (NEFCLASS), is used to extract a rule base with the aid of semantic differential scale (SDS), multi-criteria group decision making (MCGDM) and grey relational analysis (GRA). To prove the applicability of the proposed approach, a case study has been conducted on mobile phone design. Results show that the suggested approach is useful to assist designers to create products satisfying affective needs of customers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the work reported here was to utilize Taguchi methods to optimize surface finish and hole diameter accuracy in the dry drilling of Al 2024 alloy. The parameters of hole quality are analyzed under varying cutting speeds (30, 45, and 60 m/min), feed rates (0.15, 0.20, and 0.25 mm/rev), depths of drilling (15 and 25 mm), and different drilling tools (uncoated and TiN- and TiAlN-coated) with a 118° point angle. This study included dry drilling with HSS twist drills. The settings of the drilling parameters were determined by using Taguchi’s experimental design method. Orthogonal arrays of Taguchi, the signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio, the analysis of variance (ANOVA), and regression analyses are employed to find the optimal levels and to analyze the effect of the drilling parameters on surface finish and hole diameter accuracy values. Confirmation tests with the optimal levels of machining parameters are carried out in order to illustrate the effectiveness of the Taguchi optimization method. The validity of Taguchi’s approach to process optimization is well established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of echocardiographic contrast utilization on patient diagnosis and management. Background: Contrast echocardiography (CE) has improved visualization of endocardial borders. However, its impact on patient management has not been evaluated previously. Methods: We prospectively enrolled 632 consecutive patients with technically difficult echocardiographic studies who received intravenous contrast (Definity, Lantheus Medical Imaging, Billerica, Massachusetts). Quality of studies, number of left ventricular (LV) segments visualized, estimated ejection fraction, presence of apical thrombus, and management decisions were compared before and after contrast. Results: After CE, the percent of uninterpretable studies decreased from 11.7% to 0.3% and technically difficult studies decreased from 86.7% to 9.8% (p < 0.0001). Before contrast, 11.6 ± 3.3 of 17 LV segments were seen, which improved after CE to 16.8 ± 1.1 (p < 0.0001). An LV thrombus was suspected in 35 patients and was definite in 3 patients before CE. After contrast, only 1 patient had a suspected thrombus, and 5 additional patients with thrombus were identified (p < 0.0001). A significant impact of CE on management was observed: additional diagnostic procedures were avoided in 32.8% of patients and drug management was altered in 10.4%, with a total impact (procedures avoided, change in drugs, or both) observed in 35.6% of patients. The impact of contrast increased with worsening quality of nonenhanced study, the highest being in intensive care units. A cost–benefit analysis showed a significant savings using contrast ($122/patient). Conclusions: The utilization of CE in technically difficult cases improves endocardial visualization and impacts cardiac diagnosis, resource utilization, and patient management. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The experimental and theoretical study on the structures and vibrations of 5-bromo-salicylic acid (5-BrSA, C7H5BrO3) are presented. The Fourier transform infrared spectra (4000–400cm−1) and the Fourier transform Raman spectra (4000–0cm−1) of the title molecule in the solid phase have been recorded. The geometrical parameters and energies have been obtained for all eight conformers from DFT (B3LYP) with 6-311++G(d,p) basis set calculations. There are eight conformers, Cn, n =1–8 for this molecule. The computational results identify the most stable conformer of 5-BrSA as the C1 form. The vibrations of stable and unstable conformers of 5-BrSA are researched with the aid of quantum chemical calculations. The complete assignments were performed on the basis of the total energy distribution (TED) of the vibrational modes, calculated with scaled quantum mechanics (SQM) method. The molecular structures, vibrational frequencies, infrared intensities and Raman scattering activities were calculated a pair of molecules linked by the intermolecular OO hydrogen bond. The spectroscopic and theoretical results are compared to the corresponding properties for 5-BrSA monomers and dimer of C1 conformer. The optimized bond lengths, bond angles and calculated frequencies showed the best agreement with the experimental results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this work, the experimental and theoretical UV, NMR and vibrational spectra of 2-chloro-6-methylaniline (2-Cl-6-MA, C7H8NCl) were studied. The ultraviolet absorption spectra of compound that dissolved in ethanol were examined in the range of 200-400 nm. The 1H, 13C and DEPT NMR spectra of the compound were recorded. FT-IR and FT-Raman spectra of 2-Cl-6-MA in the liquid phase were recorded in the region 4000-400 cm-1 and 3500-50 cm-1, respectively. The structural and spectroscopic data of the molecule in the ground state were calculated using density functional theory (DFT) employing B3LYP exchange correlation and the 6-311++G(d,p) basis set. The vibrational frequencies were calculated and scaled values were compared with experimental FT-IR and FT-Raman spectra. The observed and calculated frequencies were found to be in good agreement. The complete assignments were performed on the basis of the total energy distribution (TED) of the vibrational modes, calculated with scaled quantum mechanics (SQM) method. Isotropic chemical shifts were calculated using the gauge-invariant atomic orbital (GIAO) method. Comparison of the calculated NMR chemical shifts and absorption wavelengths with the experimental values revealed that DFT method produces good results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The experimental and theoretical study on the structures and vibrations of 6-chloronicotinic acid (6-CNA, C6H4ClNO2) are presented. The Fourier transform infrared spectra (4000–50cm−1) and the Fourier transform Raman spectra (3500–50cm−1) of the title molecule in solid phase have been recorded, for the first time. The geometrical parameters and energies have been obtained for all four conformers from DFT (B3LYP) with different basis sets calculations. There are four conformers, C1, C2, C3, and C4 for this molecule. The computational results diagnose the most stable conformer of 6-CNA as the C1 form. The vibrations of the two stable and two unstable conformers of 6-CNA are researched with the aid of quantum chemical calculations. The molecular structure, vibrational frequencies, infrared intensities and Raman scattering activities and theoretical vibrational spectra were calculated a pair of molecules linked by the intermolecular OO hydrogen bond. The spectroscopic and theoretical results are compared to the corresponding properties for 6-CNA stable monomers and dimer of C1 conformer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper seeks to explore the effectiveness of ant colony optimization for solving the job rotation scheduling problem. The problem of scheduling in job rotation is considered with the objective of minimizing the workload of jobs. The performances of the proposed two ant-colony algorithms are evaluated based on integer programming and simulated annealing solutions. Results show that the ant-colony algorithm implementation is able to compete effectively with the best known solution to the problem. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

User-centred design (UCD), a design process shaping the product in accordance with the users' expectations, is an ergonomics-oriented product design approach. In the ergonomics literature, the required criteria related to user centred (usable) product design are classified into two major categories: performance and emotional expectations. In this study, a literature review on the user-centred design and the product usability which places greater emphasis on emotional expectations is provided. Following the review, the relevant evaluation and implications for further research is also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]