bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thick Crescent Iced Sub-Conductors Spacing Influence on the Aerodynamic Properties
Authors: Ma Li Jun , Hao Shu Ying , Zhang Qi Chang
Published: October 2013

Using computational fluid dynamics software FLUENT analysis and calculation the aerodynamic coefficient of the 28mm ice thickness crescent iced quad-bundle conductors under different spacing. Studies show that aerodynamic coefficient of downwind sub-conductors affected by wake-flow, with the upwind sub-conductors there is always a big difference. With different spacing values, quad-bundle iced conductors in the wake-flow of different effects. Upwind sub-conductors, spacing values have nothing to do with the aerodynamic coefficient. Downwind sub-conductors, drag coefficient in the larger change significantly, moment coefficient variation is relatively small. Sub-conductors spacing has no effect on the lift coefficient.
A Model-Based Control Design for a Planar Loading Simulator
Authors: Fan Rui , Guo Hao Ran , Wang Dan
Published: October 2013

A two degree-of-freedom (DOF) novel planar loading simulator, which is capable of planar loading, is firstly designed and then analyzed in kinematics and dynamics. A model-based controller with PI method is presented and applied to the planar loading simulator. The control performance is fully tested in the experiments. The results illustrate that the proposed controller can be well implemented to the planar loading. Several problems related to the multidimensional loading are also discussed.
The Electronic Part of the Metal Tube Rotameter
Authors: Mo Bo , Jiang Fei Yu , Zhang Hui Xin
Published: October 2013

The electronic part of the metal tube rotameter which is based on the magnetic sensors and microcontroller C8051F005 is studied. The flow rate change causes the change of the floats position in the metal tube and leads to rotation of the coupling magnet. Then the change of magnetic angle is detected by the magnetoresistive sensors, and a signal is generated. The signal is processed by the electric circuit and made available for the microcontroller for sampling. Then it will has linearization fitting in the microcontroller and finally has a output. This system could automatically sample the flow signal, calculate the instantaneous flow rate, and display them on the LCD screen.
Roads Leading to Chaos and Chaotic Border Control of Aircraft Vertical Maneuvering at High Angles of Attack
Authors: Zhang Zhi Hao , Yao Hong , Peng Xing Zhao , Su Lei
Published: October 2013

Based on nonlinear dynamics theory, this paper analyzed the stable field and roads leading to chaos of aircraft vertical maneuvering, studied stability and put forward the stable field of vertical maneuvering under various matching parameter on the basis of Aircraft vertical maneuvering equation. Regarding rudder angle and quality as variable parameters to analyze chaos movement by developing the heteroclinic orbit based on melnikov theory. And then, we proposed a method for chaotic border control by computer simulation in order to give theoretical security guidance of aircraft vertical maneuvering at high angles of attack in various situation.
Attitude Active Disturbance Rejection Control of Agile Satellite
Authors: Cai Xiao Xiao , Wu Jin Jie , Liu Kun
Published: October 2013

Based on the mission requirements of agile satellite, the control method of large angle maneuver was investigated in this paper. The single gimbal control moment gyroscope (sgcmg) of pyramid configuration is taken as the executor of the satellite. In order to avoid the singularity of sgcmgs, robust pseudo-inverse steering logic is used. An attitude active disturbance rejection controller (adrc) was designed. The expected attitude maneuver information that got by gauss pseudo-spectral method (gpm) took the place of that got by tracking differentiator (td). The constraints of satellite and sgcmgs are considered. Dynamics decoupling and disturbance observation of satellite were realized by using nonlinear extended state observer (neso). Then based on neso, nonlinear error feedback controller (nlsef) effectively suppresses the disturbance. The simulation results show that the attitude active disturbance rejection controller has steady control performance and can reject the disturbance better.
Research and Design of Distributed Controllers for Mechanical Arms of Humanoid Robot Based on FCS
Authors: Jiang Chong Ran , Li Li , Bai Jin Quan , Huo Yan Zhong
Published: October 2013

According to the high real-time and the high anti-interference which required by the machanical arms of humanoid robot, a distributed controllers for mechanical arms of humanoid robot system based on CAN is developed, to which C8051F041 micro controller is applied as the joint controllers. The circuits of incremental discs and speed detection as well as their applications are designed. The achievement of develop and design on distributed controllers for six degrees of freedom mechanical arms fulfills the trajectory requirement of humanoid robot qualification and the system according to the study design.
Application of Smart Tool Cabinet in the Temporary Grounding Wire Management
Authors: Huang Chu , Chen Tian , Xia Shi Yu , Zhou Peng , Zhang Zhan Long
Published: October 2013

Temporary grounding wire is an important insurance to protect the safety of maintenance personnel and the power line, in order to prevent wrong operation such as switching on breaker with the grounding wire linked, this paper developed an smart tool cabinet to orderly place grounding wire, making it convenient for substation management personnel to check the information and ensure proper operation. Intelligence tool cabinet contains position sensors, RFID device, the central processing unit and GPRS wireless communication module and so on, it can send information of grounding wire such as time, number, and status back to the PC automatically and timely without attendants filling out the information form. The good operation of the system shows that managing grounding wire with the tool cabinet is feasible.
Trajectory Tracking Control of a Quad-Rotor UAV
Authors: Xu De Xin , Wei Yan Hui , He Kun Peng
Published: October 2013

In order to solve the problem of trajectory tracking of the Quad-rotor UAV, a trajectory tracking control method based on rodrigues formula is proposed in this paper, which can transform the problem of position control to attitude control, thus we can solve the problem of the characteristics of nonlinear, coupled, multivariate and underactuated. A attitude stabilized controller is designed by the Rodrigues formula of rigid rotation. The Lyapunov stability analysis proved the stability of the controller. The simulation result proved that this approach method solve the problem of the trajectory tracking of the Quad-rotor UAV.
Research on Control System of Pitching Pose Error Elimination for Boom-Type Roadheader
Authors: Du Yi Bo , Liu Xi Gao , Hao Ming Rui , Liu Zhi Min , Wu Miao
Published: October 2013

The current roadheader automatic cutting technology has been relatively mature, the pose error elimination control technology has become a research hotspot. Pitch pose error of roadheader is too large will cause automatic excavating cut roof or floor, and will make the machine lose its stability. According to the movement way and the work requirements of roadheader, this paper put forward the control method of controlling shovel plate and back support to eliminate the impact of pitching pose error , and the corresponding sensors were selected based on the actual situation. According to the kinematics analysis of shovel plate and back support, the specific control method of the research was completed. The above system has been tested on EBZ200 type roadheader and testing results is good. The study of this system is a part of the pose error elimination control for roadheader, which will lay a foundation for the detection of roadheader pose and directional tunneling.
The Synchronous Control of Automated Manual Transmission in Three-Gear Electric Bus
Authors: Zhang Zhi Sen , Xiao Hui Jin , Yang Cheng Fu , Ling Ling , Wu Bai Hai
Published: October 2013

The system configuration of 3-gear automated manual transmission (AMT) in electric bus was introduced and the rationality and necessity of using 3-gear AMT in electric bus were discussed. The mechanical structure of AMT was built in this paper. According to the evaluation criteria of automatic gear shifting, ed. the shift time and shift jerk, the optimum control strategy of synchronous process was proposed in terms of the principle and method of torque and speed adjustment of main driving motor. The experimental results illustrates that the developed 3-gear synchronous control system can be put into effect. The test results show that the mean shift time is 1.86s (statistical value) and the shift jerk is between ±35m·s-3.
Mechanical Analysis of Scissor Transmission Mechanism Considering Friction
Authors: Zhang Fan , Yuan Xue , Chen Jin
Published: October 2013

Mechanical analysis of scissor transmission mechanism has been of concern for researchers. Analysis methods of kinematic pair frictions effect on efficiency and mechanical properties have been a difficult problem. To solve the problem, a mechanical model has been established for the research on the scissor transmission mechanism considering connecting points kinematic pairfriction. Forcesofnodes of multi-unit transmission mechanism, on the basis of principle of virtual work, were expressed in terms of therecursive matrix. The method used to calculate the efficiency of multi-unittransmission mechanism has been obtained. Analysis on friction factors, including the total number of units, situation of hydraulic cylinder and the eccentric coefficient was carried out with real mechanism and their relationships with efficiency have been expressed by curves. The results indicated that the efficiency decreased with the increase of unit number and the eccentric coefficient. The conclusions obtained could serve as theoretical guidance and reference for mechanical analysis and optimal design on scissor transmission mechanism.
Development of Portable Microclimate Water-Cooled Thermoregulation Systems for Active Stokehold Protective Garments
Authors: Yu Hsing Cheng , Li Bo Yi , Li Szu Ju , Yang Chin Tien , Chen Wei
Published: October 2013

The active stokehold protective garments (ASPG) can remove body heat of ship stokehold operators working in confined and extremely hot environment via conductive heat exchange from circulating water-cooled fluid next to the skin through the body-temperature-monitoring method. Hence, portable microclimate water-cooled thermoregulation systems (MWCTS) for the ASPG have been developed by using programmable embedded system-on-chip (PSoC) in this paper. The ASPG have advantages of longer cooling periods, better temperature-controlled capability, and excellent thermal somatosensory comfort. Furthermore, they could allow users to adjust comfortable temperature and also maintain long-term constant temperature by monitoring human temperature in portable MWCTS. Additionally, optimal control algorithm may enhance system efficiency to reduce the power consumption and extend the operating time effectively; thus, the velocity and temperature closed-loop control systems have also been improved in the portable MWCTS for the ASPG. Consequently, several experiments have been implemented and explored the impact of the heat transfer rate and verified the feasibility of the MWCTS for ASPF.
Study on Interactional Characteristics of WT Wheelchair Robot with Stairs during Stair-Climbing Process
Authors: Wang Jian , Wang Ting , Yao Chen , Li Xiao Fan , Wu Cheng Dong
Published: October 2013

The characteristics of interaction between WT wheelchair robot and stair environments is analyzed and possible patterns of WT wheelchair robot during the stairs climbing are summarized, and then the criterion to determine the pattern of the wheelchair robot is proposed. STATEFLOW module in MATLAB is used to simulating the whole stair-climbing of WT wheelchair robot, and an entire analytical procedure about how to determine the pattern by using the simulation curves is given.
Research of Poison Gas Diffusion and Emergent Ventilation in Large Space Buildings with Obstacles
Authors: Peng Xiao Yong , Zhang Xin , Chai Xu Sheng , Huang Shuai , Guo Lan Xia
Published: October 2013

Using the numerical simulation method analyze the free diffusion process of poison gas (chlorine) and the effect that control - exhaust type emergency ventilation system on gas diffusion and transport in large space buildings. Results show that internal obstacles in large space buildings have a direct impact to the Chlorine free diffusion, the concentration of the upper area near the obstacles and the following regions lower than them which face the poison gas source is obviously higher than the back area, the control-exhaust type emergent ventilation can overcome the restrictions of obstructions well, control chlorine gas diffusion and transport process effectively, the ground slot jet not only limits the diffusion of chlorine source term area to other areas, but also discharges chlorine gas of control-exhaust type emergent ventilation which spreads to other areas before the work, reduces chlorine gas concentration of human activity height range area.
EHA System Integration Design Analysis and Position Tracking Performance by PID Controller
Authors: Jawaid Syed Imran , Wang Liang
Published: October 2013

Electro-hydraulic actuation is now an emerging and well established technology and currently applicable in almost all fields but most important application of electro-hydrostatic actuator (EHA) is aerospace industry. This paper will discuss the selection and designing of major sub-assemblies and their integration to form an EHA unit. A complete, compact, and high performance EHA will be designed in different sections of paper and dynamic analysis of major assemblies is carried out to meet the designed requirements. In last section position tracking performance of the EHA is analysed by using a conventional PID Controller and simulation results are discussed.
Study on the Compressibility of the Silt in Hangzhou, China
Authors: Zhang Zhen Ying , Wu Da Zhi , Wang Cha
Published: October 2013

To investigate the compressibility of the silt, three soil samples are collected from Xiasha zone, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. The geotechnical engineering parameters of the silt soil are measured in the soil mechanics laboratory. Tests results show that the uniformity coefficient of the silt is 13.6, the natural density is 1.96t/m3, the moisture content is 17.0%, the plasticity index is 9.4, the compression coefficient varies from 0.06 to 0.40MPa-1, and the compression index varies from 0.015 to 0.108. Finally, the properties of the compression are studied, and find that the compressibility of the silt soil is very large, and the relationship between the initial void ratio and the logarithm pressure is linear.
Research on Water Ecological Protection and Restoration for Dangyang District of Juzhang River Area in Yichang City
Authors: Huang Yong Wen , Chen An , Wang Ling Jia , Huang Rui , Gong Da Chun
Published: October 2013

In order to protect the aquatic ecological environment of Juzhang river, control the pollution, and protect the safety of drinking water quality, and make the water resourcesuse sustainably as well as promote the coordinated development of basin economic construction and environmental protection, its necessary to conduct the research of aquatic ecological environment protection and restoration of Dangyangdistrict of Juzhang River area in Yichangcity. The measurements of area water ecological protection and restoration were made for water pollution treatment, safety protection of domestic water resource and ecological restoration for the problems of Yichang river area water environment under the direction of Tai lake area treatment experience according to the principle of water environment protection and ecological restoration. The five measurements about the sum controlling for the river entry pollutants, the comprehensivetreatment for water environment, thefull precaution and full controllingfor industrial pollution, the construction of base facilities for water environment, the cooperation treatment for villages environ-ment. The four measurements of the ecological protective belt, man-made wet soil, biological mani-pulation and water plant ecological restoration were applied in the area water ecological restoration. The good effectiveness was obtained through the series of major projects.
Improvement of Performance on Flow-Cutoff of Flap Valves Set in the Pressurized Tank of Pumping Station Based on Numerical Simulation
Authors: Yu Yong Hai , Cheng Bin
Published: October 2013

Two small flap valves arranged in parallel for each pump were used as flow-cutoff device in certain large-scale axial flow pumping station where the pressurized tank was designed as outlet structure. The flap valves of side-set pump had the poorest performance on flow-cutoff in the pumping station. The flow field in the pressurized tank was shown based on numerical simulation in order to improve the flow-cutoff performance of flap valves. The standard k-ε turbulence model and momentum equations were solved in the SIMPLEC algorithm with the assumption that the free water surface remained flat as a stress-free plane of symmetry. The velocity distribution and free outflow were prescribed on inlet and outlet boundary respectively. Numerical simulation on the flow field in pressurized tank was done at three typical moments chosen in the basis of the flow variation in the process of shutdown of flap valves. The reason that two flap valves of side-set pump could not close simultaneously and the late closing flap valve had a huge force on the wall was analyzed based on the comparison of flow field for side-set pump and middle-set pump. The result from numerical simulation proves that the division pier with appropriate size which helps to improve the flow distribution uniformity is valid for the two flap valves of side-set pump to close simultaneously.
Application of Wavelet Transform in Image Matching Technology
Authors: Zhang Ya Ping , Shi Wen
Published: October 2013

Aiming at the image process demands, a kind of image matching recognition algorithm based on statistical characteristics of the image after wavelet transform was proposed. This algorithm adopts wavelet to perform multiple scale two-dimensional wavelet transform for image. The corresponding progeny images energy distribution in different direction and different scale will be taken as statistical characteristics. The targets to be recognized can be identified through the angle's cosine value between the extracted statistical features from the targets and the statistical characteristics of the standard library image. Finally, the bar codes of books are adopted to verify this method and the results show that the algorithm has good recognition effect for the different characters in bar codes.
Regional Vulnerability Analysis of Grid Structure
Authors: Huang Xun Cheng , Qi Huan , Zhang Xiao Pan , Lu Li Fang , Hu Yang Yu
Published: October 2013

Cascading failure of network features in power system is analyzed in this paper using complex network theory and method, and Central China power grid are analyzed in detail on the three kinds of attack forms (maximum load, the most generous attack and random attack) of regional vulnerability. It provides technical means for the prevention of cascading failure .
Thermal Analysis of Expressway Considering Wind Effect
Authors: Cao X. , Miyashita H. , Kako T. , Zhang Z. , Song B.
Published: October 2013

This paper reports a method of thermal analysis of expressway and the results of analysis of four expressways currently used in Japan. The authors built a mathematical model based on the principle of thermal conduction. For the boundary conditions in this mathematical model the influence of solar radiation, wind and air temperature etc. are taken into consideration. Explicit finite difference method is used in the analysis. The authors made an analysis program in Fortran language. Four main expressways distributing from the northern to the southern in Japan are chosen as the objects of this study. The observed weather data of the hottest days experienced by these expressways during the past 30 years is input into the computer calculation. The basic mechanism of expressway temperature change and effect factors are illuminated. The results are reported and discussed.
Analysis of the Positive, Negative Press' Ventilating System in Offshore Plaform Room
Authors: Cheng Tao , Wei Cheng Ge , Li Yong Qiang , Wei Yan , Ma Qing Jun
Published: October 2013

Introducing the characteristic of the positive,negative press ventilating system of offshore platform room,analysing the implementing methods and attention points on the design of the positive,negative press ventilating system,and illuminating the key factors influencing the design rationalization of positive,negative press.
Calculation and Analysis on Thermodynamics Calculation of Nature-Gas Pipelines with Electric Heat Tracing
Authors: Yang Shu Ren , Xu Di , Duan Chao , Ge Yu Yang , Zhang Meng Ru
Published: October 2013

In order to restrain the hydrate formation in the gas transmission pipeline, according to the heat transfer theory of fluid in the circular tube of multilayer cylindrical wall, comprehensively considering many factors such as earth temperature variation, natural gas physical property and so on, we theorized numerical method and computational formula of thermodynamic calculation of buried electric heat tracing gas transmission pipeline, which are used to the field calculation. The results show that the outlet temperature of pipelines with electric tracing ribbon has a sensible rise, and the minimum is 3.8°C, under the conditions given in this paper, the maximum ups to 19.8°C, the relative percentage error between calculation results and actual measurement values is less than 5%, so we can concluded that the derived temperature drop formulas and the calculation software can totally meet the requirement in oilfield production.
Experimental Study on Fire Area Resistance during Mine Fire Period
Authors: Wang Wen Cai , Jiang Yu Hong , Lu Yang , Zhang Bo , Gong Wei Gang
Published: October 2013

In order to determine the fire area resistance and its characteristics in the process of tunnel fire accurately,fire area resistance calculation equation is established according to the compressible wind energy balance equation, that fire area resistance mainly depends on the wind temperature and dynamic change through the fire areaand air volume as well.Experiment determined the total ventilation resistance and fire area resistance at various points in the process of coal combustion in the roadway with the help of a similar experiment device.Analysis obtained, fire area resistance will appear from zero to big, than from big to zero with the development, stable combustion and attenuation of the fire; fire area resistance can reach the maximum 71.5 Pa when the air temperature and volume increased to 351.6K and 0.419 m3/s.
Cascading Failures in Two-Layered Interdependent Scale-Free Networks
Authors: Peng Xing Zhao , Yao Hong , Du Jun , Ding Chao , Zhang Zhi Hao
Published: October 2013

Cascading failures in isolated networks have been widely studied in the past decade, cascading failures in interdependent networks are attracting more and more attention recently, but previous studies focus on the interdependent networks topological cascading effects, neglecting the loads which present in most real networks. Considering the effect of loads, the two-layered interdependent BA network model and the cascading failure model were reestablished in this paper, based on these, the robustness of interdependent networks under random failures and intentional attacks and the effects of average degree on the suppressing of cascading failures were researched. The simulation results show that compared to random failures, interdependent network is more vulnerable under intentional attacks; the network in coupled state is more vulnerable than in isolated state under random failures, while therere no obvious differences under intentional attacks; the network performs more robust to resist cascading failures if each layer network of the interdependent network hold larger average degree.
Simulation on the Process of Cavity Wall Expansion of Cone at Constant Speed Water-Entry
Authors: Cao Wei , He Chun Tao , Wang Cong
Published: October 2013

Computational simulation investigation which is based on the Navier-Stokes equation, finite-volume method, dynamic mesh method, and volume of fluid method, was carried out principally on the constant speed vertical water entry of the cone with 75 degree and a half angle. Based on this, the cavity generation and the process of cavity wall expansion of the cone with 75 degree and a half angle were analyzed. Through analyzing the expansion dynamic for the cavity wall in different depths, the velocity and acceleration with time in the process of cavity wall expansion were obtained, and the disturbances and splash feature laws of the free surface near the entrance of the cavity after cones water-entry were analyzed too.
Factors affecting immunization coverage in urban slums of Odisha, India: implications on urban health policy
Authors: Prusty Santosh K. , Panda Bhuputra , Chauhan Abhimanyu S. , Das Jayanta K.
Published: October 2013

Infectious diseases are major causes of morbidity and mortality among children. One of the most cost-effective interventions for improved child survival is immunization, which has significant urban-rural divides. Slum dwellers constitute about one-third of Indian population, and most children still remain incompletely immunized. The main purpose of this study was to understand the factors behind partial or non-immunization of children aged 12-23 months in slum areas of Cuttack district, India. Session-based audit and a population-based survey were conducted in the urban slums of Cuttack city, April-June 2012. Total 79 children were assessed and their mothers were interviewed about the nature and quality of immunization services provided. Children fully immunized were 64.6%. Antigen-wise immunization coverage was highest for Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) (96.2%) and lowest for Measles (65.8%), which indicates high instances of late drop-out. Frequent illnesses of the child, lack of information about the scheduled date of immunization, frequent displacement of the family and lack of knowledge regarding the benefits of immunization were cited as the main factors behind coverage of immunization services. The study showed that there is an urgent need to revise the immunization strategy, especially for urban slums. District and sub-district officials should reduce instances of early and late dropouts and, in turn, improve complete immunization coverage. Community participation, intersectoral co-ordination and local decision making along with supportive supervision could be critical in addressing issues of drop-outs, supply logistics and community mobilization.
Contraception and poverty: a lost battle
Authors: Makarem Nisrine N.
Published: October 2013

Not available.
Sense of coherence and job characteristics in predicting burnout in a South African sample
Authors: Johnston Claire S. , De Bruin Gideon P. , Geldenhuys Madelyn , Györkös Christina , Massoudi Koorosh , Rossier Jérôme
Published: October 2013

Orientation: Research that considers the effects of individual characteristics and job characteristics jointly in burnout is necessary, especially when one considers the possibility of curvilinear relationships between job characteristics and burnout.Research purpose: This study examines the contribution of sense of coherence (SOC) and job characteristics to predicting burnout by considering direct and moderating effects.Motivation for this study: Understanding the relationships of individual and job characteristics with burnout is necessary for preventing burnout. It also informs the design of interventions.Research design, approach and method: The participants were 632 working adults (57% female) in South Africa. The measures included the Job Content Questionnaire, the Sense of Coherence Questionnaire and the Maslach Burnout Inventory. The authors analysed the data using hierarchical multiple regression with the enter method.Main findings: Job characteristics and SOC show the expected direct effects on burnout. SOC has a direct negative effect on burnout. Job demands and supervisor social support show nonlinear relationships with burnout. SOC moderates the effect of demands on burnout and has a protective function so that the demands-burnout relationship differs for those with high and low SOC.Practical/managerial implications: The types of effects, the shape of the stressor-strain relationship and the different contributions of individual and job characteristics have implications for designing interventions.Contribution/value add: SOC functions differently when combined with demands, control and support. These different effects suggest that it is not merely the presence or absence of a job characteristic that is important for well-being outcomes but how people respond to its presence or absence.
Is metal pollution a threat to the continued survival of the starfish in False Bay, South Africa?
Authors: Reinecke Adriaan J. , Reinecke Sophie A.
Published: October 2013

Urbanisation and industrial development in the catchment area of False Bay in South Africa are increasing and concern was raised about the effect of environmental pollutants on intertidal fauna such as starfish. The aim of the present study was to obtain initial descriptive baseline data over several seasons during 2000–2001 of metal concentrations in water, sediment and body samples of the chosen cushion starfish Parvulastra exigua (Lamarck, 1816) that occurs widely in the intertidal zone of False Bay. Concentrations of cadmium, copper, lead, nickel and zinc were measured in samples of the cushion starfish, water and sediment at five localities along the coast of False Bay. The samples were chemically analysed for metals by atomic spectrophotometry. The highest individually measured concentrations of cadmium (Cd) in starfish and sediment were found in the northern coastal region between Strand and Muizenberg where most industrial activity and human settlement occur. Large variation in concentrations of all metals occurred between localities and seasons. The mean concentrations of Cd and Pb in water and sediment were in a few instances slightly higher than the recommended levels or target values of the South African marine water and sediment quality norms but still lower than those in various developed countries. Indications are that the bay was at the time of this study still less contaminated by metals in comparison with the coastal waters of various other countries. The accumulation of nonessential metals such as cadmium and lead in both sediment and bodies of starfish was nevertheless such that it can be assumed that environmental concentrations in some parts of the bay could over time build up to levels that are detrimental to the species as well as their predators. This study provided evidence that the cushion starfish in False Bay is exposed to several metals of which some are potentially hazardous since they tend to gradually accumulate in animal bodies. Risk assessment, however, requires additional information about the causal relationship between exposure and biological effects at the cellular, organismic and population levels before informed decisions can be made whether the threat to starfish is such that intervention is required.
Physicochemical composition of buffaloberry (Shepherdia argentea), chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) and sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) fruit harvested in Saskatchewan, Canada
Authors: Green Richard C. , Low Nicholas H.
Published: October 2013

Green, R. C. and Low, N. H. 2013. Physicochemical composition of buffaloberry ( Shepherdia argentea ), chokecherry ( Prunus virginiana ) and sea buckthorn ( Hippophae rhamnoides ) fruit harvested in Saskatchewan, Canada. Can. J. Plant Sci. 93: 1143–1153. There is increasing interest in the commercialization of native fruits for utilization as foods and medicinal extracts. This study was undertaken to determine the physicochemical properties of buffaloberry (Shepherdia argentea), chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) and sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) fruit grown in Saskatchewan. The physicochemical analyses of samples of each of these fruits included carbohydrate content, CIELAB color values, organic acid composition, pH, percent seed weight, phenolic compound content, soluble solids content, total titratable acidity (TTA) and proximate composition (ash, fibre, lipid, moisture and protein). Buffaloberry was found to contain high TTA and was especially high in ascorbic acid at 209±37 mg 100 g−1fruit, fresh weight basis. Chokecherry contained high levels of anthocyanin at 237±41 mg 100 g−1fruit, fresh weight basis. The results of this study suggest all of these native fruits possess compounds important to the human diet.
Cholera Vaccination in Urban Haiti
Authors: Rouzier Vanessa , Severe Karine , Juste Marc Antoine Jean , Peck Mireille , Perodin Christian , Severe Patrice , Deschamps Marie Marcelle , Verdier Rose Irene , Prince Sabine , Francois Jeannot , Cadet Jean Ronald , Guillaume Florence D. , Wright Peter F. , Pape Jean W.
Published: October 2013

Successful and sustained efforts have been made to curtail the major cholera epidemic that occurred in Haiti in 2010 with the promotion of hygiene and sanitation measures, training of health personnel and establishment of treatment centers nationwide. Oral cholera vaccine (OCV) was introduced by the Haitian Ministry of Health as a pilot project in urban and rural areas. This paper reports the successful OCV pilot project led by GHESKIO Centers in the urban slums of Port-au-Prince where 52,357 persons received dose 1 and 90.8% received dose 2; estimated coverage of the at-risk community was 75%. This pilot study demonstrated the effort, community mobilization, and organizational capacity necessary to achieve these results in a challenging setting. The OCV intervention paved the way for the recent launching of a national cholera vaccination program integrated in a long-term ambitious and comprehensive plan to address Haiti's critical need in water security and sanitation.
Laboratory-Confirmed Cholera and Rotavirus among Patients with Acute Diarrhea in Four Hospitals in Haiti, 2012–2013
Authors: Steenland Maria W. , Joseph Gerard A. , Lucien Mentor Ali Ber , Freeman Nicole , Hast Marisa , Nygren Benjamin L. , Leshem Eyal , Juin Stanley , Parsons Michele B. , Talkington Deborah F. , Mintz Eric D. , Vertefeuille John , Balajee S. Arunmozhi , Boncy Jacques , Katz Mark A.
Published: October 2013

An outbreak of cholera began in Haiti in October of 2010. To understand the progression of epidemic cholera in Haiti, in April of 2012, we initiated laboratory-enhanced surveillance for diarrheal disease in four Haitian hospitals in three departments. At each site, we sampled up to 10 hospitalized patients each week with acute watery diarrhea. We tested 1,616 specimens collected from April 2, 2012 to March 28, 2013; 1,030 (63.7%) specimens yielded Vibrio cholerae, 13 (0.8%) specimens yielded Shigella, 6 (0.4%) specimens yielded Salmonella, and 63 (3.9%) specimens tested positive for rotavirus. Additionally, 13.5% of children < 5 years old tested positive for rotavirus. Of 1,030 V. cholerae isolates, 1,020 (99.0%) isolates were serotype Ogawa, 9 (0.9%) isolates were serotype Inaba, and 1 isolate was non-toxigenic V. cholerae O139. During 1 year of surveillance, toxigenic cholera continued to be the main cause of acute diarrhea in hospitalized patients, and rotavirus was an important cause of diarrhea-related hospitalizations in children.
Occupational Therapy for Upper Limb Post-Stroke Sensory Impairments: A Survey
Authors: Doyle Susan , Bennett Sally , Gustafsson Louise
Published: October 2013

Purpose:

Upper limb post-stroke sensory impairments have an impact on a significant number of stroke survivors. There is limited research in this area and it is unclear how occupational therapists are addressing sensory impairments in clinical practice. This study aimed to investigate the clinical practice patterns of occupational therapists, perceived barriers to providing interventions and information sources used when addressing upper limb post-stroke sensory impairments.

Methods:

A survey was sent to 500 randomly selected occupational therapists in the United States.

Findings:

The majority of the 145 respondents reported frequently assessing sensation, and half reported providing interventions for sensory impairments. Interventions primarily focused on providing passive sensory stimulation followed by compensatory strategies. Most therapists provided patient/caregiver education about safety. Therapists cited lack of knowledge and skills, patients' short length of stay and lack of time as barriers to utilizing interventions. Most therapists reported not being up to date with current research and requested continuing education to support practice.

Conclusion:

This survey established a profile of American occupational therapists' practice with people with upper limb post-stroke sensory impairments. Therapists have a need for information and training in all aspects of the management of upper limb post-stroke sensory impairment. Further research, evaluating the effectiveness of interventions and exploring therapists' clinical decision making when choosing interventions, is also needed.
Adaptation Planning Guideline and Constrained Outline for Shower Chairs and other Four-Caster Vehicles
Authors: Abraham Brian , Davidson Rob I , Johnson Garth R
Published: October 2013

Introduction:

No research-based guidelines for adaptation planning for shower chairs and other vehicles with four casters exist, despite the manual handling nature of the manoeuvring task and the occupational therapy responsibility to plan for such vehicles.

Method:

It was determined from theory that changes in direction for these vehicles, such as from a passageway through a door, could be represented by 13 manoeuvres. Participants (n = 17) carried out 11 (maximum) manoeuvres based on this theory, each with the maximum comfortable occupant weight of their choice (weights represented the occupant).

Findings:

The maximum occupant weight selected as comfortable varied substantially between some of the 11 manoeuvres: there was a 100% difference between the lowest and highest weight selections. This indicated that four-caster vehicles (such as shower chairs) should not be treated as omni-directional for high occupant weights, or for floor materials with high motion resistance, because the manoeuvre direction substantially affects maximum comfortable weight selection.

Conclusion:

The manoeuvre with the highest weight selection is proposed as a guideline when manual handling concerns exist for these vehicles. The guideline can be modified for individual vehicles sizes, occupant and carer anatomy.
A Narrative Literature Review of the Impact of Anti-TNFα Treatment on the Occupational Performance of People with Rheumatoid Arthritis or Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: McArthur Margaret , Birt Linda , Goodacre Lynne
Published: October 2013

Introduction:

Anti-TNFα treatment has revolutionised the disease pathway for some people with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, although physiological improvements do not always readily translate into re-engagement in occupational activities. This review explores the evidence base for the impact of anti-TNFα on occupational performance.

Method:

Literature was searched from 2000–11. A four-stage process resulted in the review of 19 articles. The Weight of Evidence framework was used to assess quality and relevance to the review question.

Findings:

People on anti-TNFα treatment experience increased engagement in functional, psychological and social domains. Most studies focused on employment issues, with conflicting evidence about how well anti-TNFα protected against work disability and very limited evidence that anti-TNFα enabled return to paid work. The increase in productivity was to the detriment of other occupational domains, with resulting occupational imbalance.

Conclusion:

The assumption that clinical improvement is relatively trouble free is incorrect, as some people on anti-TNFα treatment continue to experience difficulties in all occupational domains, particularly work. People on anti-TNFα treatment do not routinely have access to occupational therapy services. Further research needs to explore the nuanced experiences of treatment and the role of occupational therapy in maximising the treatment potential of anti-TNFα.
Are Occupational Therapy Interventions for Service Users with Mental Health Problems Cost-Effective?
Authors: Morley Mary , Smyth Genevieve
Published: October 2013

The current financial climate in health and social care is challenging: occupational therapists who work in mental health services need urgently to demonstrate clinical effectiveness and value for money in comparison to other interventions. In doing so they will help to ensure that service users in the United Kingdom can continue to benefit from occupational therapy interventions. In this opinion piece, a basic introduction to types of evaluation, costs and consequences is provided, as well as a description of research studies into the provision of occupational therapy for service users with mental health problems that include economic evaluations. Finally, methods to produce this vital information are suggested for practitioners, managers and researchers.
Dilemma of the Silver Standard Economies: The Case of China
Authors: Ho Tai-kuang
Published: October 2013

Exchange rate commitments implied in the silver standard originally anchored China's monetary policy and the inflation rate in the early republican period. It was believed that China's free silver standard acted as a natural check on the excessive issuing of notes by warlords and local governments. This consensus view, however, overlooks the fact that the silver standard was inherently unstable because it left no room for monetary policy to stabilize output and inflation. This article employs a formal structural model to show that a fiat currency unlinked to fluctuations in the price of silver that allows government to implement self‐adjusting monetary policies would further stabilize China's output and inflation.
Higher Education Internationalization: DIU Libertas Response?
Authors: Zaputovic Sanja , Rukavina Ana Stavljenic , Raic Nada , Zuzul Miomir
Published: October 2013

DIU Libertas International University is committed to developing the intellectual capacity, creativity and professionalism of our students, immersing them in the rich diversity of human experience and aspirations, thereby preparing them to shape the future of our world while adding to the knowledge base of humankind.

The university includes professors, students and graduates from almost 100 countries and a clinical training program involving more than 10 hospitals from seven countries.

How to cite this article

Kurjak A, Stavljenic Rukavina A, Zaputovic S, Stanojevic M, Raic N, Zuzul M. Higher Education Internationalization: DIU Libertas Response? Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013;7(3):231-238.
A New World of Learning
Authors: Lucin Pero , Mahmutefendic Hana
Published: October 2013

Exponential development of information and communication technologies is changing the world of learning. As a consequence of exponential exposure to media and information flows, our brains are adapting and new skills are arising. This especially occurs with the new generation of people who encounter media and information tools at the earliest stages of life. Although many of us are aware of such changes, there is very little research-based information to explain them. In recent years, evidence was presented demonstrating neuroplastic basis of human brain adaptation, although neuroplastic mechanisms are still poorly understood. Today's schools and universities are still analogue, whereas the students can be said to be digital. The educational system does not properly recognize the skills of the new generations and does not respond to their needs. New aspects of social evolution suggest that we should also think not only of adapting our learning skills, but also our social skills. These skills should be integrated into all learning processes, from preschool education to lifelong learning. The aim of this editorial is to facilitate discussion within the medical profession about the arising new world of learning.

How to cite this article

Lucin P, Mahmutefendic H. A New World of Learning. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013;7(3):248-260.
Global Education: How do we Respond?
Authors: Souza Heitor Gurgulino de
Published: October 2013

In this paper, Professor Heitor Gurgulino de Souza, briefly describes the goals that World Academy of Art and Science (WAAS) had stated, 40 years ago, when it was established, and its role as a ‘World University’. Then he mentions the United Nations University (UNU), created by UN Secretary General U Thant, with support from UNESCO, when the UN General Assembly adopted the charter of UNU, on December 1973. He briefly describes the organization and first years of activities of the UNU globally, from its center in Tokyo, Japan, since 1975. Why Tokyo? Because, at that time, a very generous offer was made by the government and people of Japan: (1) To donate US$100 million to the endowment fund of UNU; (2) to build its permanent headquarters in Tokyo and (3) to establish a research and training center of the UNU in Japan. He also describes briefly the UNU Research and Training Centers (RTCs) and programs (RTPs), established worldwide. Finally, he mentions another case of a globalization, being implemented by Brazil- ‘Science without Borders Program’ (CSF), during 2011-2015. Goal: to send over 100,000 students abroad (with fully funded fellowships) to study and do research at good universities in other countries and to attract visiting teachers and researchers from abroad to come and work in Brazil.

How to cite this article

de Souza HG. Global Education: How do we Respond? Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013;7(3):268-271.
EU Knowledge Triangle: ‘Renaissance or Ocean of Papers?’
Authors: Turcinovic Petar
Published: October 2013

EU knowledge triangle composed of education, research and patents is being analyzed as a mean to improve quality of life in EU, including its economy and crisis resolution potential. While research side of triangle is satisfactory, education needs improvement in content and student and staff mobility. The number of patents should be higher given the number of research papers published. Obstacles to smartocracy approach are highlighted together with EU growth strategy 2020 with its supportive programs and other possible solutions to smart growth. Case studies are used to illustrate the need for flexible and timely support particularly in new IT business models. Bureaucracy, slow reactions, lack of success culture, and red tape together with conservative universities are limits to change based on creativity and smart growth. It was stated that EU strategy 2020 represents welcomed but slow move in good direction. Finally, return to basics of creativity, as an individual process, is being reinforced together with the idea of supporting inventors with the unemployed managers to help them with the implementation of inventions in the social phase of the patent process.

How to cite this article

Turcinovic P. EU Knowledge Triangle: ‘Renaissance or Ocean of Papers?’ Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013;7(3):272-277.