Various Types Of Specimens Research Articles

Determination of the Temperature Dependences of the Fracture Energy Components of Specimens of Various Types in Impact Bending Tests

Determination of the Temperature Dependences of the Fracture Energy Components of Specimens of Various Types in Impact Bending Tests

Validation of fracture toughness characteristics of nuclear plant piping and safety margin analysis by using CP specimen

Generally, due to the limited sizes of the pressure piping in a nuclear power plant, it is difficult to obtain valid data from fracture resistance tests examining on the real pipe. Thus, the leak-before-break (LBB) concept which is widely used for design and estimation of pressure piping system is determined based on the fracture resistance (J-R) curves of fracture resistance tests on various types of specimens. However, the fracture resistance tests show that the specimen geometry and loading configuration have a strong effect on the J-R measurement. Thus, a fracture test using a pipe specimen of real scale needs to be carried out to obtain accurate fracture behavior for the exact integrity evaluation of a piping system. Therefore, to estimate the integrity of real pipes based on elastic-plastic fracture mechanics, we have to first establish the new test method for fracture resistance evaluation of nuclear piping using the real pipe.In this paper, we present the current state of a fracture resistance evaluation using a compact pipe (CP) specimen and the validity of the test method was reviewed by comparing the fracture resistance test results from the CP specimens and real pipes. In addition, the safety margin of the piping was evaluated by using a crack driving force diagram and the results were analyzed.

Different frequencies of Porphyromonas gingivalis infection in cancers of the upper digestive tract

The high incidence rate of multiple carcinomas in the upper digestive tract is often explained in terms of involvement of the same underlying risk factors. It has been reported that the oral bacterium Streptococcus anginosus is associated with esophageal, gastric, and pharyngeal cancers. We previously reported occurrence of Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) DNA in esophagus cancer. In this study, the presence of P. gingivalis in specimens of various types of cancer from the upper digestive tract was investigated. Here we report that P. gingivalis was preferentially and frequently present in specimens of esophageal cancer as well as in those from dysplasia of the esophagus but rarely in matched noncancerous portions and are quite low or absent in cancers from the cardia or stomach. Therefore, it led us to propose that, the microorganism does not survive in conditions of high acidity. We then investigate the pH dependence of survival of P. gingivalis as well as the acid tolerance of it. We found that, exposure to acidic buffers of a wide range of pH values led to a decline in colony forming units of P. gingivalis, thus, providing a possible explanation for variations in frequencies of P. gingivalis infection in this study.

Evaluation of glue line shear strength of laminated timber structures using block and core type specimens

Monitoring and evaluation of glued laminated timber structures in service is essential to warrant its integrity, where non-destructive techniques play an important role. This paper describes the results obtained on glued laminated timber beams of maritime pine, with and without preservative treatment, and of spruce, exposed to natural outdoor environment as well as to artificial weathering. The assessment of glue lines’ shear strength was investigated through the extraction and testing of cores parallel and perpendicular to the glued lines and block shear specimens with 50 mm × 50 mm and 20 mm × 20 mm shear area. The results highlight the different performances of the various types of specimens tested, showing that the measured shear strength depends on the specimen size and that the size effect depends on the material strength giving a decreasing modification factor with the increase of strength in opposition to the constant factor suggested by standard EN 14080. They also show that shear testing of cores drilled perpendicular to the glued joints may be a promising tool in the assessment of glulam structures on site.

Antimicrobial Susceptibility and Coagulase Typing of MRSA Strains at Mymensingh Medical College

Antimicrobial susceptibility and coagulase typing of Staphylococcus aureus isolates, with particular emphasis to Methicillin Resistant S. aureus (MRSA), were studied among strains isolated from various types of specimens collected at Mymensingh. A newly developed panel of anti-sera against different coagulase enzymes was used for coagulase typing. The study included 79 strains of S. aureus and of those, 40 were identified as MRSA on the basis of resistance to oxacillin (1 gm) discs. The rate of resistance of S. aureus to different antibiotics observed: penicillin (88.61%), oxacillin (48.10%), cephradine (44.30%), gentamicin (27.85%), erythromycin (34.18%), fusidic acid (25.0%) and rifampicin (20.0%). None of the isolates showed vancomycin resistance. Both MRSA and non-MRSA strains were found belonging to Coagulase type VI. Drug resistance pattern and coagulase type of MRSA strains indicated a homogenous epidemiologic origin that needs further exploration including strains from different geographic locations.Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2007; 01 (02): 56-60

In situ detection of GM1 and GM2 gangliosides using immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent techniques for auxiliary diagnosis of canine and feline gangliosidoses.

BackgroundGM1 and GM2 gangliosidoses are progressive neurodegenerative lysosomal storage diseases resulting from the excessive accumulation of GM1 and GM2 gangliosides in the lysosomes, respectively. The diagnosis of gangliosidosis is carried out based on comprehensive findings using various types of specimens for histological, ultrastructural, biochemical and genetic analyses. Therefore, the partial absence or lack of specimens might have resulted in many undiagnosed cases. The aim of the present study was to establish immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent techniques for the auxiliary diagnosis of canine and feline gangliosidoses, using paraffin-embedded brain specimens stored for a long period.ResultsUsing hematoxylin and eosin staining, cytoplasmic accumulation of pale to eosinophilic granular materials in swollen neurons was observed in animals previously diagnosed with GM1 or GM2 gangliosidosis. The immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent techniques developed in this study clearly demonstrated the accumulated material to be either GM1 or GM2 ganglioside.ConclusionsImmunohistochemical and immunofluorescent techniques using stored paraffin-embedded brain specimens are useful for the retrospective diagnosis of GM1 and GM2 gangliosidoses in dogs and cats.

Fixed target single-shot imaging of nanostructures using thin solid membranes at SACLA

Single-shot imaging using femtosecond x-ray pulses from x-ray free electron lasers (XFELs) has revealed high-resolution structures of Au nanoparticles and biological macromolecular complexes. The x-ray pulse power of 10 GW is enough to vaporize specimen when it is focused on a few microns area. This makes it essential to have a single particle loader to provide fresh samples to the x-ray pulses. In this paper we introduce single-shot imaging at Spring-8 Angstrom Compact Free Electron Laser (SACLA) to investigate various types of specimen, from metallic nanoparticles to biological macromolecules, prepared on Si3N4 membrane. A significant reduction in sample consumption is achieved while maintaining a data acquisition rate of 30 Hz, which is compatible with the current SACLA operation rate.

Data curation profiling of biocollections

ABSTRACTIn the contexts of the data deluge and open data, scientists studying biodiversity benefit from online access to global datasets of existing vouchered biological and paleontological collections. Using biocollections collected over time across the world allows for the advancement of scientific knowledge concerning evolution in process as well as species poleward migrations, an indicator of climate change. This study's purpose was to validate and expand the Data Curation Profiles (DCP) to digital biocollections and inform a DCP framework for worldwide biota. Ten biocollection producers, curating various types of specimens affiliated with the project building the United States' national biodiversity infrastructure, were interviewed using the DCP questionnaire. Results indicate there is extreme diversity in the curation of biocollections and additional DCP questions should be added to reflect the complicated approaches to biological data curation. Although discipline specific metadata creation tools, standards, and practices enable long‐term sustainability of the U.S. digitization effort, some scientists would benefit from further clarification and guidance on the information needs of consumers beyond designated communities of expert users, and the long‐term preservation of biocollections.

Incidence of invasive meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections in Germany, 2010 to 2014.

Voluntary surveillance systems in Germany suggest a recent decline in the incidence of infections (subsequent to at least 2010) with meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) from various types of specimens and settings. We asked whether this decline is reflected by data from the mandatory national surveillance system for invasive MRSA infections. Our analysis is based on the population in Germany in 2010 to 2014. Cases were identified from passive reporting by microbiological laboratories of the diagnosis of MRSA from blood culture or cerebrospinal fluid. Respective clinical data were subsequently added to the notification. We calculated risk ratios (RR) between consecutive years, stratifying cases by sex, age and federal state of residence. The national incidence increased from 4.6 episodes per 100,000 persons in 2010 to 5.6 in 2012 (2011 vs 2010: RR: 1.13, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.08-1.18; 2012 vs 2011: RR: 1.08, 95% CI: 1.04-1.13). It stagnated at 5.4 per 100,000 in 2013 (RR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.93-1.01) before declining to 4.8 in 2014 (RR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.84-0.91). This trend was observed in most, but not all federal states and strata of sex and age groups. Only 204 of 20,679 (1%) episodes of infection were notified as belonging to an outbreak. Our analysis corroborates previous findings that the incidence of invasive MRSA infections in Germany may be declining.

Multidrug Resistant Acinetobacter species: A significant cause of sepsis in an Intensive care unit in a regional hospital, Durban

Abstract Introduction Acinetobacter species (A.species ) are common hospital environmental bacteria that have gained importance during the past few decades as important nosocomial pathogens in critically ill patients. This problem has been compounded by the worldwide increase in carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter infections. In South Africa also, multidrug resistant, including carbapenem resistant A. species causing significant sepsis has recently increased. Acinetobacter baumannii remains an important and difficult-to-treat pathogen whose resistance patterns result in significant challenges for the clinician. The study was conducted to determine the prevalence of MDR- A. species , and to differentiate between significant infection and colonization by correlation with clinical data . Method All patients identified with A. species isolates after 48hrs in the intensive care unit (ICU) were included in the study over a year period. Data was recorded prospectively including any underlying chronic disease, type of specimens, antibiogram, antibiotic usage in the unit and outcome during daily ward rounds. Analyses were done retrospectively. Results During the study period, there were 187 isolates from different specimens of 86 patients. Significant sepsis was identified in 30/86 (35%), colonization in 51/86 (59%) and bacteraemia in 5/86 (6%) patients with A. species respectively. Lack of appropriate treatment resulted in the death of 18/86 (21%) patients. A. species was isolated mainly from endotracheal aspirates 67/187 (36%), and the others were from the various types of specimens. Isolates were multidrug resistant including carbapenem. Conclusion MDR- A. species was identified as a significant cause of sepsis and high mortality rate (p <0.001) among the patients in surgical ICU. Our findings highlight the impact of antibiotic stewardship in the treatment of patients in whom A. species is isolated and the urgent need for the development of standardised guidelines for management of patients with A. species sepsis. Key words: Multidrug Resistant, Acinetobacter species, colonization, sepsis, intensive care unit

Preparation of Transparent-Type Plasmonic Sensors By the Sol-Gel Process and Electrodeposition

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering spectroscopy (SERS)1 is a powerful method for molecular-level characterization of various surfaces and interfaces, featuring high detection ability compared to normal Raman spectroscopy. We have developed plasmonic sensors for the SERS, which could achieve very high enhancement effect, and succeeded to analyze extremely small amount of materials2. The plasmonic sensor has a patterned nanostructure with concentric circular grooves so as to have high electric field at its center. The sensors are made of metals such as Ag, Au, and Cu, which are active for the plasmonic enhancement. In the present study, we proposed a new type of the sensor, “transparent” plasmonic sensor, which enables the measurements of various types of specimens, regardless of the substrate materials. In order to fabricate these sensors, we applied a sol-gel process to form SiO2 films and the formation of Au–Ag nanodot patterns embedded in the sol–gel SiO2 films using electrodeposition. We also evaluated the performance of the fabricated sensors. The transparent-type plasmonic sensors were fabricated by the following process. Indium tin oxide (ITO) was sputtered on a glass substrate. SiO2 thin films were prepared by the sol-gel spin-coating technique on the ITO-glass surface, using tetraethoxysilane as the precursor material and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a thickener. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), which exists as fine needles, was used as a template. The template, consisting of fine PDMS needles, was pressed into the SiO2 thin film and then heated, thus forming and transferring nanodot patterns into the film. The residual SiO2 film on the ITO was removed by reactive ion etching (RIE). Then, Au–Ag films were electrodeposited at −0.7 V vs. Ag/AgCl on the SiO2 nanodot patterns. Electrodeposition and electrochemical measurements were performed with an electrochemical analyzer (HZ-7000, Hokuto Denko). The surface morphology was observed by scanning electron microscopy with a field-emission source (FE-SEM, S-4800, Hitachi High-Technologies Corp.) and focused ion beam–scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM, NB-5000, Hitachi). SERS measurements were performed using Raman microscopy (Nanofinder 30, Tokyo Instruments, Inc.). 30-nm-depth nanodot patterns in sol-gel SiO2 films were confirmed using PDMS template. And, after the removal of the residual SiO2 film on the ITO, we could embed the Au-Ag films in the nanodot patterns by electrodeposition. And, we evaluate the behavior of PEG in the sol-gel SiO2 process. By 350 °C annealing, it was confirmed that the Raman peak of PEG disappeared and then the use of PEG in sol-gel SiO2 process didn’t affect the property of transparent-type plasmonic sensors. Using these sensors, we evaluated the outermost surfaces of electrodeposited Cu films and the behavior of organic additives in electrodeposition to confirm the ability of transparent-type plasmonic sensor. From the examination, the status of oxidation of Cu and a small amount of organic additives was detected. It was confirmed that the developed transparent-type plasmonic sensors worked well. We have developed a process to prepare transparent-type plasmonic sensors which were constituted from Au–Ag nanodot patterns embedded in sol–gel SiO2 films. From these results, it is clear that these developed plasmonic sensors are effective for the in situ analysis and detection of the interfaces between solids and liquids in water or electrolyte. Acknowledgments This research was partially supported by "Nanotechnology Network Project", "Development of Systems and Technology for Advanced Measurement and Analysis", and "Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research, 23656470 and 25630041” of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), Japan.

Back to Basics: Specimen Management

Specific actions for handling various types of specimens may differ; however, the management process is essentially the same. Accurate specimen management requires effective multidisciplinary communication, minimal distractions, and awareness of the opportunities for error. When advocating for patients and working with members of the health care team to provide a safe perioperative environment, perioperative nurses should adhere to best practices for specimen management and strive to prevent specimen-related errors that may lead to inaccurate or incomplete diagnoses, the need for additional procedures, and perhaps most importantly, physical and psychological injury to patients.

Development of a real-time PCR Assay for identification of Coccidioides immitis by use of the BD Max system.

Rapid real-time PCR (RT-PCR) can be performed in a community hospital setting to identify Coccidioides species using the new Becton Dickinson molecular instrument BD Max. Following sample preparation, DNA extraction and PCR were performed on the BD Max using the BD Max extraction kit ExK-DNA-1 test strip and a master mix prepared by BioGX (Birmingham, AL). Sample preparation took 2 h, and testing on the BD Max took an additional 2 h. Method sensitivity and specificity were evaluated along with the limits of detection to confirm that this convenient method would provide medically useful information. Using serial dilutions, the lower limit of detection was determined to be 1 CFU/μl. Testing with this method was validated using samples from various body sites, including bronchial alveolar lavage (BAL) fluid; sputum and lung tissue samples; and pleural and spinal fluids. Safety protocols were established, and specimen preparation processes were developed for the various types of specimens. The range for the cycle threshold (CT) indicating adequate fluorescent signal to signify a positive result was established along with the acceptable range for the internal standard. Positive controls run with each batch were prepared by spiking a pooled BAL fluid specimen with a known dilution of Coccidioides immitis organism. Our experience with testing >330 patient samples shows that clinically relevant information can be available within 4 h using an RT-PCR method on the BD Max to identify Coccidioides spp., with sensitivity equivalent to culture.

Brittle fracture analysis of Dissimilar Metal Welds

This paper deals with a fracture mechanics analysis of a narrow-gap Dissimilar Metal Weld (DMW) in the brittle fracture domain. The considered case is a Ni base alloy weld joint between a ferritic component and an austenitic pipe and the aim of the present study is to show that in the same loading conditions, the weld joint is less sensitive to the brittle fracture than the nearby ferritic part of the component.The bases of the proposed qualitative study rely on a stress-based criterion model, using a threshold stress (σth) below which the cleavage cannot occur. From that criterion, brittle fracture risk is evaluated, then compared between two positions of a postulated crack: one in the Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) of the ferritic material, the other in Base Metal (BM) far from the weld joint.For the experimental part of this comparison, one mock-up containing a DMW is used. From this mock-up, a large number of specimens of various types and with various crack locations was tested at low temperature. In parallel to that extensive experimental program, Finite Element Analysis has been done. The main result of that F.E.A. is that, due to the mismatch between the different materials, the brittle fracture risk is lower in the HAZ because of the stress relaxation with plasticity in the weld material and loss of constraint in the cracked section.This paper presents firstly a survey of DMW integrity evaluation, then the criterion used for the comparison, the experimental work and the F.E.A. made to show qualitatively the highest risk of brittle fracture of the homogeneous ferritic material compared to the DMW one.

English

Candida, a yeast like ubiquitous fungus, is an endogenous species which produces commonest fungal infection; Candidiasis. Resistance to antifungal agents is an alarming sign for the emerging common nosocomial candidiasis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Various types of specimens were collected from the clinically suspected cases of candidiasis. Isolation and characterization of candida sp. was done by standard procedures. Antifungal susceptibility was done by disc diffusion method. RESULT: The candida was isolated from various clinical specimens, vaginal swab (24.66%), skin scraping (13.33%) oral swabs (12.66%), ear swabs (11.33%), nail scraping (10%), and pus from diabetes foot ulcer and post-operative wound infection (8%), sputum (6%), urine (4.66%), stool (4%), blood (2.66%), and eye swabs (2.66%). Among different species of candida isolated C.albicans was the predominant species (79.33%) followed by C tropicalis (19.33%) and C.Guilliermondii (1.33%). Antifungal resistance of different species of candida was higher to fluconazole. The least resistance was seen with amphotericin- B (1.33%). CONCLUSION: The increased isolation of candida species and development of resistance to commonly used antifungal drugs requires careful interpretation and the in vitro susceptibility testing. This facilitates better patient care.

Analysis of C-shaped canal systems in mandibular second molars using surgical operating microscope and cone beam computed tomography: A clinical approach.

Aims:The study was aimed to acquire better understanding of C-shaped canal systems in mandibular second molar teeth through a clinical approach using sophisticated techniques such as surgical operating microscope and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).Materials and Methods:A total of 42 extracted mandibular second molar teeth with fused roots and longitudinal grooves were collected randomly from native Indian population. Pulp chamber floors of all specimens were examined under surgical operating microscope and classified into four types (Min's method). Subsequently, samples were subjected to CBCT scan after insertion of K-files size #10 or 15 into each canal orifice and evaluated using the cross-sectional and 3-dimensional images in consultation with dental radiologist so as to obtain more accurate results. Minimum distance between the external root surface on the groove and initial file placed in the canal was also measured at different levels and statistically analyzed.Results:Out of 42 teeth, maximum number of samples (15) belonged to Type-II category. A total of 100 files were inserted in 86 orifices of various types of specimens. Evaluation of the CBCT scan images of the teeth revealed that a total of 21 canals were missing completely or partially at different levels. The mean values for the minimum thickness were highest at coronal followed by middle and apical third levels in all the categories. Lowest values were obtained for teeth with Type-III category at all three levels.Conclusions:The present study revealed anatomical variations of C-shaped canal system in mandibular second molars. The prognosis of such complex canal anatomies can be improved by simultaneous employment of modern techniques such as surgical operating microscope and CBCT.

P2.074 Comparison of Specimen Type For the Diagnosis of TrichomonasVaginalis (TV) Using the ViperTM System is Extracted Mode

BackgroundTV is the most common curable STI worldwide and is associated with adverse consequences including preterm birth and acquisition/transmission of HIV. Yet, until recently, testing options for this infection were...

Mycology Meets the Chessmen

Increasingly recognized as agents of attacks on various types of specimens stored in museums around the world, fungi now seem likely to have been responsible for the degradation of some extraordinary medieval sculptures in Scotland. These are the Lewis Chessmen, made mostly from walrus ivory and some from whales' teeth. They are generally thought to have been discovered in Uig, on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis in 1831 (although an inland site on the island has also been claimed). Studies by James Tate at the National Museums Scotland, Edinburgh, together with researchers at the University of Dundee and the Istituto Centrale per il Restaurio e la Conservazione del Patrimonio Archivistico e Librario in Rome, Italy, now point to fungi as causes of the strange but very characteristic damage seen on the chess pieces.

Evaluation of fracture toughness of nuclear piping using real pipe and tensile compact pipe specimens

The leak-before-break (LBB) concept is generally used to design the primary heat transport piping for a nuclear power plant. The LBB concept is based on the fracture resistance curve, which is obtained by J–R tests on various types of specimens. Fracture toughness data differ according to the various types of specimens. It has also been known that there is a difference in the constraint effect between real pipes and standard specimens, and LBB design using standard specimens is conservative. We propose a new type of specimen for J–R tests, a tensile compact pipe (CP) specimen, and perform fracture toughness tests on various types of specimens. We also perform constraint effect analysis on such specimens. The Q-stresses of the tensile CP specimens are lower than those of real pipes under 4-point bending, and are higher than those of elbow pipes. If the lever length of a tensile CP specimen is controlled, the specimen can simulate various stress conditions, and it is thought that the LBB design of piping in service can be performed using this specimen.

Determination of the subcritical crack growth parameters in rocks using the constant stress-rate test

Subcritical crack growth plays an important role in evaluating the long-term stability of structures in rocks. The characteristics of subcritical crack growth can be described by a relationship between the stress intensity factor and the crack velocity. This paper presents the results of studies conducted to validate the constant stress-rate test for determining subcritical crack growth parameters in rocks, compared with the conventional testing method, the double torsion test. Various types of specimens including the Brazilian disk, three-point bending, grooved disk, single edge notched bend, and compact tension specimens have been tested on Coconino sandstone under the constant stress-rate scheme and the subcritical crack growth parameters have been determined. The results of the constant stress-rate test are in good agreement with the results of double torsion test. More importantly, the stress-rate tests can determine the parameter A with a much smaller standard deviation than the DT test. Thus the constant stress-rate test seems to be a valid test method for rocks. The results show that the parameter n is almost constant regardless of the test method and specimen geometry, but the parameter A varies with the test method and specimen geometry.