bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microcrystalline cellulose treated by steam explosion and used for thermo-mechanical improvement of polypropylene
Authors: Tienne Lucas G P , Cordeiro Suellem B , Brito Elisa B , Vieira Marques Maria de Fátima
Published: April 2020

The use of cellulose fibers derived from renewable resources as reinforcement in polymeric composites provides positive environmental benefits with respect to disposal and raw material savings. Microcrystalline cellulose is a regenerated cellulose material that is free of lignin and hemicellulose, widely used in various applications. Recently, there has been enormous interest in producing polymer nanocomposites using cellulose nanofibers as reinforcement. Moreover, the steam explosion process is an ecofriendly method to modify cellulose fibers by inducing fibrillation, allowing the production of nanofibers. Fibrillation of microcrystalline cellulose using steam explosion process as the only cellulose treatment process was not yet studied in the literature. In the present work, steam explosion process was applied to commercial microcrystalline cellulose and the obtained fibers were characterized and employed in composites with polypropylene for evaluation of the thermal, mechanical, and morphological properties in relation to the matrix. The results showed that this process promoted partial fibrillation to nanosized diameter, and an increase in crystalline degree and thermal stability of the original fiber. As for the polypropylene/cellulose composites in the absence of compatibilizer, there was an increase of thermal degradation temperature and mechanical properties measured by dynamic-mechanical analysis in comparison with pure polypropylene.
Synthesis and characterization of zinc oxide reinforced aluminum metal matrix composite produced by microwave sintering
Authors: Kumar Bhoi Neeraj , Singh Harpreet , Pratap Saurabh
Published: April 2020

The study focuses on the microstructural, phase transformation, and physical and mechanical aspects of aluminum/zinc oxide composite produced by a hybrid microwave sintering technique. In the present case, zinc oxide nanorods were synthesized through a cost-effective thermal decomposition method. The obtained zinc oxide nanorods’ length was in the range of 76–168 nm observed through high-resolution transmission electron microscopy images and crystallinity nature was confirmed by the bright spot in the selected area electron diffraction pattern. Two different wt% (i.e. 0.5 and 2) of zinc oxide nanorods were utilized for the fabrication of the composite material. The diffraction pattern of the milled powder and energy dispersive spectroscopy results shows effective diffusion of zinc oxide nanorods in the aluminum. The elemental mapping of milled powder illustrates the uniform distribution of the reinforcement over matrix material. The micro-hardness results exhibit a higher hardness of 27.78% with a small fraction of 2 wt%. The nano-indentation results confirm the improvement in the nano-hardness by 32.21% with 2 wt% of zinc oxide with a marginal decrease in elastic modulus by 4.92%.
Exploring Diener’s Multidimensional Conceptualization of Well-Being Through Network Psychometrics
Authors: Giuntoli Laura , Vidotto Giulio
Published: April 2020

Previous research has addressed the study of the well-being structure focusing on the separability among hedonic and eudaimonic dimensions by means of latent variable approaches. Diener’s tripartite model of Subjective Well-Being has often been identified with hedonic well-being, while flourishing (i.e., positive functioning) has been classified as a proxy for eudaimonic well-being. Instead of pursuing a theory-driven approach, the structure of well-being dimensions can be retrieved by means of network psychometrics that is a highly informative, data-driven approach that allows the model structure to spontaneously emerge from the relationships among indicators. Furthermore, we propose a strength centrality decomposition that is able to summarize the influence of a specific indicator within its dimension and between the other dimensions. Contrary to the theoretical conjecture that the separability among well-being dimensions can be grounded on a hedonic and eudaimonic distinction, our results point to a categorization of the Diener’s well-being indicators based on the type of information they convey, that is global evaluation of life satisfaction, positive and negative affective experiences, and perceived positive functioning in life.
Exploring mass customization and textile application in medical products: re-designing scoliosis brace for shorter production lead time and better quality of life
Authors: Ho-Yi Fung Olivia , Yip Joanne , Cheung Mei-Chun , Yick Kit-Lun , Yat-Hong Kwan Kenny , Man-Chee Cheung Kenneth , Pui-Yin Cheung Jason , Tse Chi-Yung
Published: April 2020

Bracing is the most common non-operative treatment option for patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). However, existing brace designs have deficiencies, including a long production lead time and low patient compliance caused by the negative impacts of bracing on quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study was to address these problems by developing a new textile-based scoliosis brace in accordance with the biomechanics used in the existing braces for spinal correction. A case study of interface pressure had been carried out to determine the optimum combination of pads to be used in the proposed brace to correct a scoliotic spine. AIS patients who were undergoing hard brace treatment were recruited to complete a questionnaire (BrQ) on hard braces and on the proposed brace. The BrQ scores of the two types of braces were compared to assess their respective impacts on the QoL. The findings show that the proposed brace can address the issue of patient compliance by reducing the impact of bracing on QoL, and shorten the production lead time through incorporation of the mass customization concept into the design. Similar to most of the commonly-used scoliosis braces, the selected combination of pads used in the proposed brace for spinal correction shows a sufficient amount of exerted pressure and a similar function of active spinal correction.
The Garden of Eden as an Israelite Sacred Place
Authors: Kang Seung Il
Published: April 2020

This article attempts to interpret the Garden of Eden as sacred space, comparing its features with those of other sacred places. This article disputes the common view that biblical descriptions of the Solomonic Temple were influenced by the Garden of Eden imagery; instead, it demonstrates that some features of Jerusalem and the Temple were incorporated into the Garden of Eden story. While many biblical scholars have hypothesized that the Garden of Eden story has Mesopotamian roots, this article describes how the author of the Eden narrative tries to present the Garden of Eden as an Israelite sacred place geographically, historically, and religiously.
Race and Resurrection
Authors: Norris Kristopher
Published: April 2020

This essay argues that Paul’s discourses in 1 Corinthians 12 and 15 concerning the church as the Body of Christ and the resurrection of the body offer a biblical challenge to colorblind white supremacy when read in conversation with feminist and womanist theologians. Reading Paul through feminist and womanist treatments of the body and trauma provides a nuanced theology of the body and a complex account of the concrete wounds of white supremacy while also presenting theological and ethical resources for resisting colorblindness.
Multiple Religious Belonging (MRB)
Authors: Nweke Kizito Chinedu
Published: April 2020

The question of religious pluralism has attracted many responses from the fields of interreligious dialogue and theology of religions. These responses, like inculturation, dialogue, and so on, have been concerned with “how” religions/spiritualities should be inclusive and imbue each other. However, the contemporary challenges of religious pluralism, ranging from the clamor for cultural identity to the structural and ontological differences among religions, suggest that the responses cannot create inclusivist interreligious contexts. One of these responses is the phenomenon of multiple religious belonging, which proposes that people could or should belong, believe, and practice as many religions as they want or can. In the Christianity–African spirituality context, this phenomenon poses some challenges for both Christianity and African indigenous spiritualities. This article intends to critically address the tensive constellation of African spiritualities and Christianity over the expectations of multiple religious belonging. It argues that there are discrepancies in the Christianity–African spiritualities constellation for multiple belonging. It suggests another approach to the question of religious/spirituality concatenation in Africa.
The Spirit of Truth
Authors: Moltmann Jürgen
Published: April 2020

This article explores the theological notion of truth in our contemporary context.
Details from the Life of the Bonhoeffer Family: New Insights about the Biography and Theology of Dietrich Bonhoeffer in the Memoirs of his Youngest Sister Susanne
Authors: Koslowski Jutta
Published: April 2020

Just recently, the autobiography of Susanne Bonhoeffer, the younger sister of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, has been rediscovered. She has bequeathed an excellent and extensive description of her family’s life and reveals new insights about the Bonhoeffer family and the history of her time. Her work will be a substantial contribution to further research. As the editor of this challenging project, I would like to investigate how this text may affect our perception of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s biography and theology. A lot of information about Dietrich Bonhoeffer is offered in the autobiography of his sister Susanne – last but not least about his time in prison, when Susanne was sent by her family to visit him every week and support him as far as possible. Besides, her biographical accounts often contain theological insights – e.g. when Susanne relates how Dietrich supported her on the occasion of her confirmation. Most of this confirms the image which has been established by earlier publications, especially those of Eberhard Bethge. This is not surprising, since Bethge extensively made use of the manuscript of Susanne. However, even if our perception of Dietrich Bonhoeffer is hardly altered by the material of Susanne, it is deepened in many ways. It helps us to understand more fully the personality and character of Dietrich Bonhoeffer – and indirectly, it sometimes also allows to draw conclusions regarding his theology. In this article, I investigate the most relevant passages with reference to Dietrich Bonhoeffer and show what conclusions we can draw from this about his life and faith. The new primary source material of Dietrich’s sister Susanne was made available to the public in October 2018; it is here for the first time presented to an English speaking audience.
Toward a geography of foodways in the southern Gulf Islands, Pacific Northwest Coast
Authors: Ewonus Paul A , Speller Camilla F , Carlson Roy L , Yang Dongya Y
Published: April 2020

Fine-screen animal bone and Pacific salmon ancient DNA (aDNA) results from Northwest Coast shell midden sites, together with other kinds of material culture, can provide detailed information on foodways, site-specific activities, and sociality. Seasonal use of the landscape may also be revealed through an understanding of place in the southern Gulf Islands of British Columbia, Canada. New results from column sample faunal analysis at the Pender Canal site are considered in conjunction with previously identified fauna. Alongside site characteristics, zooarchaeological and aDNA species identification data are employed to help reconstruct activities that people undertook. These tasks and their social implications at Pender Canal are contextualized with a discussion of several similar data sets from contemporary sites in the region. Temporal patterns in small fish remains and ancient salmon DNA at Pender Canal correspond with region-wide changes in land use, helping us interpret the formation of Coast Salish social relationships and identities over millennia.
Bailout bypass surgery for complications of coronary interventions
Authors: Szczechowicz Marcin P. , Mkalaluh Sabreen , Torabi Saeed , Zhigalov Konstantin , Mashhour Ahmed , Karck Matthias , Easo Jerry , Weymann Alexander
Published: April 2020

Background

Mechanical complications of percutaneous coronary interventions are treated percutaneously in most cases. If the rescue intervention is unsuccessful, bailout bypass surgery is necessary to restore the coronary flow. The surgical risk in these cases is higher than that of patients operated on for other indications. The aim of our study was to characterize patients who underwent surgical treatment at our institution and to compare their long-term outcomes with patients who underwent emergency bypass surgery for other indications.

Methods

We analyzed 707 consecutive patients who underwent isolated emergency bypass surgery at our institution from 2007 to 2015. In 44 of these cases, the surgery was necessitated by mechanical complications of percutaneous coronary interventions. There were 31 coronary dissections, 5 entrapped guidewires, and 8 coronary perforations. We compared patients in these three groups with one another. Follow-up was performed to assess long-term outcomes.

Results

The median age of the cohort was 68 years (range 59–75 years), and 36 (81.8%) patients presented in cardiogenic shock. Thirty-seven (84.1%) patients had history of a percutaneous coronary intervention. The courses were typical for bypass patients. The long-term survival was similar in all three subgroups ( p = 0.16). The survival profiles within our sample did not differ significantly from that in patients who underwent emergency bypass surgery for other indications.

Conclusions

Surgical risk and short- and long-term outcomes of patients undergoing emergency bypass surgery due to mechanical complications of percutaneous coronary interventions are similar to those of patients receiving the same surgery for other indications.
Salvage thoracoscopic resection after nivolumab for stage IV
Authors: Hamaji Masatsugu , Ozasa Hiroaki , Yoshizawa Akihiko , Date Hiroshi
Published: April 2020

There are limited data on the surgical management of localized and residual diseases in patients with stage IV non-small-cell lung cancer that was treated with nivolumab. Herein, we present two patients who underwent salvage thoracoscopic resection for residual diseases (left lower lobectomy and paratracheal lymph node resection, respectively) after chemotherapy and immunotherapy for stage IV adenocarcinoma. The indications, intraoperative findings, and histopathological findings are discussed in this report.
Delayed-onset sinus node dysfunction in a child victim of Russell’s viper bite
Authors: Athapathu Arjuna Salinda , Arunath Visvalingam , Aruppala Aruppala AHS , Hoole Thabitha Jebaseeli , Suntharesan Kanagapathasuntharam , Mettananda Sachith
Published: April 2020

Cardiac complications following envenomation by Russell’s viper venom are uncommon. We describe a 14-year-old girl who developed delayed-onset sinus node dysfunction. She presented with mucosal bleeding, ptosis, and muscle weakness. Her 20-min whole blood clotting time and international normalized ratio were prolonged. The initial electrocardiogram showed sinus tachycardia. Her systemic manifestations responded to antivenom serum. After 24 h, she developed bradycardia and electrocardiography showed sinus node dysfunction with sinus arrest and an atrial escape rhythm. This case shows that arrhythmias can have a delayed onset even after resolution of other systemic manifestations, and even after treatment with antivenom serum.
Factors Related to Animal Neglect in Brazilian Laboratories
Authors: Bones Vanessa Carli , Molento Carla Forte Maiolino
Published: April 2020

Our objectives were to identify the prevalence of negligence of laboratory animals in Brazil, to determine the primary factors associated with its occurrence and to suggest prevention strategies. A questionnaire was made available online between October 2015 and March 2016. A total of 116 respondents with experience in the use of laboratory animals and/or the use of alternative methods answered the questionnaire. Most respondents were women (77 respondents, 66.4%), a significant proportion had a degree in Veterinary Medicine (31 respondents, 27.2%), and a majority used animals in their work (88 respondents, 75.9%). Of the 88 animal users, 23 supplied information on the numbers and species of animals they used. When asked whether they knew that Brazilian law forbade animal experimentation when alternative methods exist, seven (9.1%) respondents mentioned Act 9605/1998. Most, but not all, respondents (96 respondents, 82.8%) submitted their projects to an Animal Use and Ethics Committee (AUEC), and many (65 respondents, 56%) reported their belief that animal neglect occurred at their institution. Negligence was found to be associated with: institutions where the numbers of animals used were not recorded ( p = 0.008); institutions where respondents were unaware of the relevant legislation, that is, Act 9605/1998 ( p = 0.042); or where there was evidence that not all project proposals were submitted to the AUEC or evidence of no submissions at all ( p = 0.022). Negligence of animals was found to be highly prevalent. Prevention strategies might involve increased transparency to the general public, the empowerment of individuals that work with animals to report any concerns, optimised inspection of facilities where animal work is carried out and significant improvements to the role of AUECs.
Reduced oxygen extraction efficiency in sickle cell anemia patients with evidence of cerebral capillary shunting
Authors: Juttukonda Meher R , Donahue Manus J , Waddle Spencer L , Davis Larry T , Lee Chelsea A , Patel Niral J , Pruthi Sumit , Kassim Adetola A , Jordan Lori C
Published: April 2020

Arterial spin labeling (ASL) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) utilizes arterial blood water as an endogenous contrast agent to provide a quantitative measure of cerebral blood flow (CBF). Recently, hyperintense signal within dural venous sinuses in ASL images of sickle cell anemia (SCA) patients has been shown to be consistent with elevated flow velocities and may indicate capillary shunting and reduced oxygen extraction. Here, we performed oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) and CBF measurements in adults (cumulative n = 114) with ( n = 69) and without ( n = 45) SCA to test the hypothesis that hyperintense venous ASL signal is associated with reduced OEF. Higher categorical scores of shunting on ASL MRI were associated with lower OEF in participants with silent cerebral infarcts or white matter hyperintensities ( p = 0.003), but not in those without lesions ( p = 0.551). These findings indicate that venous hyperintense signal in ASL images in SCA patients may represent a marker of capillary-level disturbances in oxygen exchange efficiency and small vessel pathology.
Simulating the effect of cerebral blood flow changes on regional quantification of [18F]flutemetamol and [18F]florbetaben studies
Authors: Heeman Fiona , Yaqub Maqsood , Lopes Alves Isadora , Heurling Kerstin , Bullich Santiago , Gispert Juan D , Boellaard Ronald , Lammertsma Adriaan A ,   on behalf of the AMYPAD Consortium
Published: April 2020

Global and regional changes in cerebral blood flow (CBF) can result in biased quantitative estimates of amyloid load by PET imaging. Therefore, the current simulation study assessed effects of these changes on amyloid quantification using a reference tissue approach for [18F]flutemetamol and [18F]florbetaben. Previously validated pharmacokinetic rate constants were used to simulate time-activity curves (TACs) corresponding to full dynamic and dual-time-window acquisition protocols. CBF changes were simulated by varying the tracer delivery ( K1) from +25 to −25%. The standardized uptake value ratio (SUVr) was computed and TACs were fitted using reference Logan (RLogan) and the simplified reference tissue model (SRTM) to obtain the relative delivery rate ( R1) and volume of distribution ratio (DVR). RLogan was least affected by CBF changes ( χ2 = 583 p <  0.001, χ2 = 81 p <  0.001, for [18F]flutemetamol and [18F]florbetaben, respectively) and the extent of CBF sensitivity generally increased for higher levels of amyloid. Further, SRTM-derived R1 changes correlated well with simulated CBF changes ( R2 > 0.95) and SUVr’s sensitivity to CBF changes improved for later uptake-times, with the exception of [18F]flutemetamol cortical changes. In conclusion, RLogan is the preferred method for amyloid quantification of [18F]flutemetamol and [18F]florbetaben studies and SRTM could be additionally used for obtaining a CBF proxy.
Skill Development Versus Performativity Among Beginners in Aerial Practice: An Embodied and Meaningful Learning Experience
Authors: Kosma Maria , Erickson Nick , Savoie Chase J. , Gibson Mark
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this quasi-experimental, phenomenological study was to use embodied cognition in understanding learning experiences in skill development and performativity (e.g., storytelling and emotional expression) among 17 beginners in aerial practice ( Mage = 20.59 ± 1.37 years old). Eight people were in the treatment-group class (skill development and performativity) and nine individuals participated in the control-group class (only skill development). Four themes emerged from the analysis: linking other exercises to aerial (e.g., cheerleading, dancing, and gymnastics) and uniqueness of aerial (e.g., artistic aspect while in the air); success in meeting aerial goals (at the posttest, performativity was valued more in the treatment group than the control group); exercise changes due to aerial, such as enhanced upper-body strengthening activities and stretches; and lessons learned, including importance of conditioning and small class size, switching Teaching Assistants (TAs), and silk awareness. Practitioners in community-based movement education programs like dancing and physical theater should recognize the need for embodied knowledge by emphasizing not only skill development but also performativity for enhanced learning experiences within supportive class settings. Although adding performative qualities to skill learning is more challenging than skill development alone, it can lead to enhanced performance, joy, and meaning of movement.
MR-guided focused ultrasound application for moving target tumor ablation in abdominal area: coil selection
Authors: Mihcin Senay , Gagliardo Cesare , Toia Patrizia , Dennison Andrew , Strehlow Jan , Melzer Andreas
Published: April 2020

Background

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)-guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (MRgFUS) is a non-invasive thermal ablation method utilizing high-intensity focused ultrasound (HI-FU) energy for tissue ablation under MRI with real-time thermal mapping. Ablating to a dynamic target as in the liver is very challenging, requiring approval. A novel quality-assured liver tumor ablation system has been proposed for clinics. The paper reports the evaluation of conventional and new MR-receiving coils.

Purpose

To evaluate the suitability of MR coils as part of the MRgFUS treatment system for liver, while simulating breathing motion in pre-clinical settings.

Material and Methods

The novel software communicates with the MR scanner and the transducer. To monitor the temperature via proton resonance frequency (PRF) methodology echo planar imaging (EPI) sequence was used while the algorithms of static, static and dynamic tracking were tested with sonications of 100 W for 30 s on tissue-mimicking phantoms. Different coil sets were used to assess the performance of the system for fitness for dynamic thermometry. Finally, in vivo experiments were performed over a porcine model.

Results

Single-loop four-channel Duoflex and Gem coils provided adequate signal-to-noise ratio and contrast with consistent thermal readings. Body array coils showed severe loss of signal in dynamic cases since the integration of tracking algorithm causes low efficiency.

Conclusion

Body array coils are unsuitable for MRgFUS of the liver due to signal loss. The dedicated coil set with a single loop around the FUS transducer combined with four-channel arrays might be the best option for liver treatment using dynamic MRgFUS applications.
Quantifying the Wollaston Illusion
Authors: Hecht Heiko , Siebrand Stefanie , Thönes Sven
Published: April 2020

In the early 19th century, William H. Wollaston impressed the Royal Society of London with engravings of portraits. He manipulated facial features, such as the nose, and thereby dramatically changed the perceived gaze direction, although the eye region with iris and eye socket had remained unaltered. This Wollaston illusion has been replicated numerous times but never with the original stimuli. We took the eyes (pupil and iris) from Wollaston’s most prominent engraving and measured their perceived gaze direction in an analog fashion. We then systematically added facial features (eye socket, eyebrows, nose, skull, and hair). These features had the power to divert perceived gaze direction by up to 20°, which confirms Wollaston’s phenomenal observation. The effect can be thought of as an attractor effect, that is, cues that indicate a slight change in head orientation have the power to divert perceived gaze direction.
Are You In or Are You Out? The Importance of Group Saliency in Own-Group Biases in Face Recognition
Authors: Harrison V. , Hole G. , Habibi Ruth
Published: April 2020

Previous research has demonstrated several own-group biases (OGBs) in face recognition, but why they occur is unclear. Social–cognitive accounts suggest they stem from differential attention and facial processing, following the categorisation of a face as belonging to an “in” or “out” group. Three studies explored whether OGBs can be produced by mere categorisation at encoding and investigated the role of in-group membership saliency on face recognition. Participants saw 40 facial images fictionally grouped according to in-/out-group status. Studies 1 and 2 used university membership as the grouping variable and found no evidence of an OGB, and no relationship between OGB magnitude and salience of group membership. Study 3 used the same design as Study 2, but with a highly salient group characteristic: participants’ stance on the U.K. Referendum (i.e., whether they were “Leave” or “Remain” supporters). In this case, an asymmetrical OGB was found, with only Remain voters demonstrating an OGB. Furthermore, a relationship between OGB magnitude and attitude toward the Referendum result was found. Overall, our results suggest that social categorisation and membership saliency alone may not be enough to moderate in- and out-group face recognition. However, when sufficiently polarised groups are used as in-/out-group categories, OGBs may occur.
Energy management education and occupation-related outcomes in adults with chronic diseases: A scoping review
Authors: Farragher Janine F , Jassal Sarbjit V , McEwen Sara , Polatajko Helene J
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Fatigue is a pervasive symptom of chronic disease that often interferes with occupational performance. Our objective was to describe what is known about energy management education and occupation-related outcomes in adults with chronic diseases.

Methods

Seven electronic databases were searched for relevant literature published before August 2019. Eligible articles were full-text, available in English, and studied energy management education in adults with a chronic disease. The first author assessed article eligibility with validation from a second reviewer, extracted characteristics of included studies, and described them using descriptive statistics. A narrative synthesis of findings was conducted for each chronic disease population.

Results

Forty-four studies addressed eight different chronic disease populations. The most common program delivery format was face-to-face in a group setting (42%), 39% of programs were informed by a learning theory, and their median cumulative length was 8 hours. Positive outcomes were associated with a specific, group-based energy management program in people with multiple sclerosis. The evidence on other energy management programs and in other chronic disease populations was more limited and inconclusive.

Conclusions

Further research is needed to understand the impact of energy management education in chronic disease populations beyond multiple sclerosis, and its impact on occupational performance.
Early non-invasive brain stimulation with modified constraint-induced movement therapy for motor and functional upper limb recovery in stroke patients: Study protocol
Authors: A Garrido Maricel , A Άlvarez Evelyn , L Acevedo Fabrizio , I Moyano Álvaro , P Castillo Natalia , A Cavada Gabriel
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Upper limb motor impairment after a stroke is an important sequela. Constraint-induced movement therapy is a rehabilitation approach that has strong evidence. The incorporation of transcranial direct-current stimulation has been proposed; however, there is a lack of studies that confirm its benefits. The principal aim is to compare the effectiveness of 7 days of active versus sham bi-hemispheric transcranial direct-current stimulation, combined with modified constraint-induced movement therapy, for motor and functional recovery of the hemiparetic upper limb in subacute stroke patients.

Method/design

Randomized, double blind, sham-controlled, parallel group clinical trial in two stroke units. Participants: adults over 18 years, at least 2 days post unihemispheric stroke event, with hemiparesis, and without severe pain, aphasia or cognitive impairment. Intervention: Patients will receive 7 days of continuous therapy and be assigned to one of the treatment groups: active bi-hemispheric transcranial direct-current stimulation or sham bi-hemispheric transcranial direct-current stimulation. Measurement: Evaluations will take place at days 0, 5, 7 and 10, and at 3rd months. The Fugl-Meyer Assessment – Upper Extremity, Wolf Motor Function Test, Functional Independence Measure and Stroke Impact Scale are considered.

Discussion

Modified constraint-induced movement therapy plus transcranial direct-current stimulation in subacute stroke patients with hemiparesis could maximize motor and functional recovery. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03452254.
Co-activation of rhythms during alpha band oscillations as an interictal biomarker of exploding head syndrome
Authors: Fotis Sakellariou Dimitris , Nesbitt Alexander David , Higgins Sean , Beniczky Sandor , Rosenzweig Jan , Drakatos Panagis , Gildeh Nadia , Murphy Patrick Brian , Kent Brian , Williams Adrian John , Kryger Meir , Goadsby Peter J , Leschziner Guy Doron , Rosenzweig Ivana
Published: April 2020

Background

Exploding head syndrome is a rarely reported benign sensory parasomnia that may nonetheless have significant impact on patients’ quality of life and their perceived well-being. To date, the mechanisms underlying attacks, characterised by a painless perception of abrupt, loud noises at transitional sleep-wake or wake-sleep states, are by and large unclear.

Methods and results

In order to address the current gap in the knowledge of potential underlying pathophysiology, a retrospective case-control study of polysomnographic recordings of patients presenting to a tertiary sleep disorders clinic with exploding head syndrome was conducted. Interictal (non-attack associated) electroencephalographic biomarkers were investigated by performing macrostructural and event-related dynamic spectral analyses of the whole-night EEG. In patients with exploding head syndrome, additional oscillatory activity was recorded during wakefulness and at sleep/wake periods. This activity differed in its frequency, topography and source from the alpha rhythm that it accompanied.

Conclusion

Based on these preliminary findings, we hypothesise that at times of sleep-wake transition in patients with exploding head syndrome, aberrant attentional processing may lead to amplification and modulation of external sensory stimuli.
Vibrational behavior of beams made of functionally graded materials by using a mixed formulation
Authors: Zghal Souhir , Dammak Fakhreddine
Published: April 2020

This paper investigates the vibrational behavior of beams made of functionally graded materials using a mixed formulation. Unlike the other high order shear deformation theories (HSDTs), the proposed formulation is elaborated within a double field of displacements and stresses which offers the possibility of the development of low order linear elements with enhanced accuracy. As well as, the effect of the transverse shear strains and the zero condition of the transverse shear stresses on the top and bottom surfaces are verified. The material characteristics of the beams are described via a power law distribution in order to take into account the continuous variation of the volume fraction of its constituents along the thickness direction. Numerical simulations are conducted to show the influence of power law index, slenderness ratios, and boundary conditions on natural frequencies of functionally graded beams. Results demonstrate the efficiency and the applicability of the model based on a refined mixed formulation and its ability to predict the vibrational behavior of functionally graded beams with good accuracy.
Single-phase fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics of nanofluid in a circular microchannel: Development of flow and heat transfer correlations
Authors: Lodhi Mangal Singh , Sheorey Tanuja , Dutta Goutam
Published: April 2020

The convective heat transfer in microchannels with the use of nanofluids has proved to be a potential candidate for cooling of micro-electromechanical system devices. The current research article presents the experimental study on fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics of [Formula: see text]/water nanofluid in a microchannel under thermally developing laminar flow at Reynolds number ranging from 300 to 1000. The experimental set-up of a circular microchannel test section with an inner diameter of [Formula: see text] and length of [Formula: see text] is fabricated to conduct the experimental study. The effect of nanoparticle concentration ([Formula: see text]), Reynolds number ([Formula: see text]) on fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics of [Formula: see text]/water nanofluid have been measured and compared with that of distilled water (DW). The results indicate that the maximum enhancement in local heat transfer coefficient is achieved up to [Formula: see text], while friction factor is achieved up to [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]/water nanofluid with nanoparticle concentration of [Formula: see text] as compared to DW. The results showed that the performance evaluation criterion of [Formula: see text]/water nanofluid is greater than unity ([Formula: see text]), implying the benefits of nanofluids as compared to DW. Moreover, the predicted data obtained by the present proposed correlations for friction factor and local Nusselt number using [Formula: see text]/water nanofluid show reasonably good agreement with the deviations of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively, with the numerical data as compared to the predicted data obtained by the existing correlations available in the literature.
Thermodynamic characteristics research of a water lubricating axial piston pump
Authors: Li Donglin , Li Geqiang , Han Jianhai , Liu Yinshui , Wu Defa
Published: April 2020

A water lubricating axial piston pump (WLAP) is one of the key components in water hydraulic systems. However, the characteristics of water, including low viscosity, strong corrosiveness, and easy vaporization, results in the increase of friction and wear of pairs, and the increase of temperature. Compared with oil pumps, the thermodynamic characteristic of WLAP is more serious. In this paper, the integrated thermodynamic model of WLAP, which includes heat generation of pairs and heat conduction of water and air, is established to improve pump design. The calculation results show that the water temperature of WLAP exceeded 90 ℃, and the pump could not work normally in extreme conditions (the inlet water temperature and ambient temperature are both 50 ℃). Consequently, a cooling design of WLAP, which circulates the inlet water in the pump chamber, is carried out. Then, the thermodynamic model was modified. Based on this model, the temperature rise characteristics and heat dissipation characteristics of the WLAP are analyzed. The steady-state water temperature of pump shell under extreme conditions is obtained. The temperature sensors and a thermal imaging were used to measure the temperatures of the WLAP. The results indicate that the water temperature of WLAP decreases significantly. The difference of the steady-state temperature of WLAP between simulation and experiment is less than 4 ℃, and its temperature distribution is uniform. Therefore, the cooling design of WLAP is effective and it can work normally under the maximum speed and pressure in extreme conditions.
Implementing product design assessment with sandwich-like architecture: A case study in an automotive company
Authors: Gu Jinheng , Liu Changqing , Fu Shenghui , Pang Changle
Published: April 2020

Product design-oriented models are a decision-making problem with multiple criteria based on the assessment of product design factor that represent engineer judgments and customer desires, and are used to adapt to increasing competition and high levels of customization. Thus, in this work, a “sandwich-like” architecture and a hybrid integrated approach including triangle fuzzy numbers, quality function deployment, and the LeaderRank algorithm are respectively proposed to express and assess product designs more effectively. Additionally, the proposed approach is a measure study which can determine the design requirements, the relationships between product design and customer requirements, and the correlations among product values. The fuzzy analytical network process and LeaderRank algorithm are employed to evaluate the product design requirements and interaction between the product value and the uncertainty that exists in expert judgment. Besides, a case study is selected as an example to illustrate the “sandwich-like” architecture in the product design stage, and a priority analysis is performed to assess the importance degrees of product designs for customer needs, thereby providing optimization for product design and an effective approach to improve the product value.
Experimental investigations to predict optimistic biodiesel(s) and its optimistic operating conditions by varying ignition delay period and fuel spray pressures for lower emissions and better performance
Authors: Patil Vishal V , Patil Ranjit S
Published: April 2020

In this study, different characteristics of sustainable renewable biodiesels (those have a high potential of their production worldwide and in India) were compared with the characteristics of neat diesel to determine optimistic biodiesel for the diesel engine at 250 bar spray pressure. Optimistic fuel gives a comparatively lower level of emissions and better performance than other selected fuels in the study. Rubber seed oil methyl ester was investigated as an optimistic fuel among the other selected fuels such as sunflower oil methyl ester, neem seed oil methyl ester, and neat diesel. To enhance the performance characteristics and to further decrease the level of emission characteristics of fuel ROME, further experiments were conducted at higher spray (injection) pressures of 500 bar, 625 bar, and 750 bar with varying ignition delay period via varying its spray timings such as 8°, 13°, 18°, 23°, 28°, and 33° before top dead center. Spray pressure 250 bar at 23° before top dead center was investigated as an optimistic operating condition where fuel rubber seed oil methyl ester gives negligible hydrocarbon emissions (0.019 g/kW h) while its nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions were about 70% lesser than those observed with neat diesel, respectively.
Numerical and experimental analysis of Cu–Fe functionally graded beam subjected to tensile loading
Authors: Torabian Maryam , Khalili Seyed Mohammad Reza
Published: April 2020

Functionally graded materials are new types of composites with heterogeneous microstructure in which some particular physical and mechanical properties change continuously in the thickness direction. In this research, a five-layer copper–iron functionally graded material was fabricated by changing the composition of the layers in a stepwise function between copper and iron using powder metallurgy method. The effect of fabrication process on the microstructure and tensile strength of functionally graded beam was investigated by using two types of presses: uniaxial press and cold iso-static press. Microscopic studies demonstrated appropriate connections between the layers and particles. To achieve ultimate tensile strength and strain, functionally graded copper–iron specimens were tested in tensile loading. The stress–strain graphs obtained from the test showed enhancement in tensile strength of copper and iron functionally graded beam compared to pure copper and iron beams. Finally, a model of this functionally graded material was analysed in ABAQUS finite element code, and the results were verified by experimental tests. Therefore, the present finite element model would be useful to investigate tensile behaviour of functionally graded materials.
A practical signal processing approach for fault detection of axial piston pumps using instantaneous angular speed
Authors: Liu Jia-Min , Gu Li-Chen , Geng Bao-Long
Published: April 2020

The axial piston pump is a core component for power output conversion in the hydraulic system. Monitoring pump status and diagnosing faults in an optimal way are of profound significance for ensuring system reliability. Currently, considerable studies concentrate primarily on the development of vibration-monitoring technologies. However, due to strong fluid shock and noise, vibration analysis has low signal-to-noise ratio and difficulty in fault location. Therefore, an approach of instantaneous angular speed-based fault detection is introduced in this paper since it has the advantages of short transfer path and non-intrusive measurement. Instantaneous angular speed (IAS) is obtained by cross-period linear interpolation (CLI) algorithm for the voltage square wave induced by a magneto-electric tachometer transducer. Compared with the elapsed time method, CLI has the capacity to precisely capture the speed fluctuation. Weighted angle synchronous averaging (WASA) is then utilized to realize the extraction of abnormal wave components in IAS as a vital signal preprocessing method. Instantaneous angular speed fluctuation (IASF) characteristics of the angular domain are analyzed to study the fault diagnosis under varying working conditions. Moreover, it is proven that after processing, the fault features are extracted in the order spectrum where the deterministic shaft order and its harmonics corresponding to wear characteristics are displayed clearly. Experimental results indicate that IAS has demonstrated more effective and sensitive than vibration signals, thus providing a promising tool for the health monitoring of a pump.
Aerodynamic effects of bio-inspired corrugated wings on gliding and hovering performances
Authors: Xuan Haibin , Hu Jun , Yu Yong , Zhang Jiaolong
Published: April 2020

Recently, numerous studies have been conducted to clarify the effects of corrugation wing on aerodynamic performances. The effects of the corrugation patterns and inclination angles were investigated using computational fluid dynamic method in gliding and hovering flight at Reynolds numbers of order 104. The instantaneous aerodynamic forces and the vorticity field around the wing models were provided to research the underlying mechanisms of aerodynamic effects of corrugated wing models. The findings can be concluded as follows: (1) the corrugation patterns have different effects on aerodynamic performance. The effect of noncamber corrugated wing is to decrease the lift and increase drag compared with a flat-plate when the angle of attack is less than 25° during gliding flight. The corrugated wing with a camber (corrug-2) after the valleys enhances the aerodynamic forces when angle of attack is higher than 35°. The valley inclination angle has limited effect on aerodynamic forces in gliding flight. (2) The lift forces of different corrugation patterns show significantly asymmetric during the upstroke and downstroke. The main reason leads to this phenomenon is the case that two sides of the corrugated wings are not symmetric around the pitching axis. The corrugated wing with only two valleys (corrug-1) changes the lift and drag very slightly. Corrug-2 produces larger peak during downstroke and smaller peak during upstroke. The increase in the inclination angle has limited effect on the aerodynamic forces. The possible reason for these small aerodynamic effects might be that the corrugated wings are smoothed by small vortices trapped in valleys. The main reason for the significant difference between plate and corrug-2 is that the recirculating vortices trapped in the saddle and hump reduce the pressure above the wing surface.
Study of a solar chimney characterized by a convergent collector output and a divergent chimney bottom
Authors: Ayadi Ahmed , Driss Zied , Abid Mohamed Salah
Published: April 2020

The solar chimney power plant (SCPP) is a solution to convert solar radiation into electrical energy. The optimization of the SCPP setup is essential to obtain a good ratio between the cost of the installation and the generated power. This paper presents a new design of a solar chimney power plant which is characterized by a combination of a convergent collector output and a divergent chimney bottom. This technical solution favors the overall performance and boosts the produced power of the SCPP. Comparing the proposed designs with a conventional prototype, the generated power could be raised by 32%. Indeed, this paper presents the performance of the solar chimney power plant while varying the chimney diameter. For each configuration, the features of the air flow characteristics such as the air temperature, the air velocity are illustrated and disputed. Results showed that the diameter of the chimney is an influential parameter in the optimization of the SCPP, since the diameter of the collector is restraint by the allowed space. Computational findings are confirmed by the use of experimental measurements which were recorded in South Tunisia, North Africa.
Factors associated with self-reported HIV testing in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Haider Mohammad R , Brown Monique J , Karim Sabrina , Siddiqi Khairul A , Olatosi Bankole , Li Xiaoming
Published: April 2020

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing is important for controlling the epidemic in low- and middle-income countries such as the Dominican Republic (DR) – a country in the Caribbean. This study aimed to examine factors associated with HIV testing in the DR. The study used HIV test data in the 2013 DR Demographic and Health Survey. HIV data were collected from 18,614 individuals aged 15–59 years. Wealth status, HIV-related stigma, and knowledge scales were constructed using factor analysis. Survey-weighted logistic regression was used to identify correlates of HIV testing in the DR. Results show that almost two-thirds (62.4%) of the participants reported ever having an HIV test. In the multivariable analysis, older age, higher education, female gender, richest wealth status, health insurance, married, higher HIV-knowledge, and lower HIV-related stigma increased the likelihood of getting an HIV test in the DR. People living in Norte/Cibao, which had a higher HIV prevalence, had a lower chance of having an HIV test than people living in the Este/Sureste region. Although HIV testing has increased in recent times, it is not yet satisfactory in the DR. Specific interventions building HIV awareness targeting specific sub-populations and regions will increase knowledge on HIV and reduce HIV-related stigma, and may increase HIV testing.