bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obese mice on a high‐fat alternate‐day fasting regimen lose weight and improve glucose tolerance
Authors: Joslin P. M. N. , Bell R. K. , Swoap S. J.
Published: June 2016

Alternate‐day fasting (ADF) causes body weight (BW) loss in humans and rodents. However, it is not clear that ADF while maintaining a high‐fat (HF) diet results in weight loss and the accompanying improvement in control of circulating glucose. We tested the hypotheses that a high‐fat ADF protocol in obese mice would result in (i) BW loss, (ii) improved glucose control, (iii) fluctuating phenotypes on ‘fasted’ days when compared to ‘fed’ days and (iv) induction of torpor on ‘fasted days’. We evaluated the physiological effects of ADF in diet‐induced obese mice for BW, heart rate (HR), body temperature (Tb), glucose tolerance, insulin responsiveness, blood parameters (leptin, insulin, free fatty acids) and hepatic gene expression. Diet‐induced obese male C57BL/6J mice lost one‐third of their pre‐diet BW while on an ADF diet for 10 weeks consisting of HF food. The ADF protocol improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, although mice on a fast day were less glucose tolerant than the same mice on a fed day. ADF mice on a fast day had low circulating insulin, but had an enhanced response to an insulin‐assisted glucose tolerance test, suggesting the impaired glucose tolerance may be a result of insufficient insulin production. On fed days, ADF mice were the warmest, had a high HR and displayed hepatic gene expression and circulating leptin that closely mimicked that of mice fed an ad lib HF diet. ADF mice never entered torpor as assessed by HR and Tb. However, on fast days, they were the coolest, had the slowest HR, and displayed hepatic gene expression and circulating leptin that closely mimicked that of Chow‐Fed mice. Collectively, the ADF regimen with a HF diet in obese mice results in weight loss, improved blood glucose control, and daily fluctuations in selected physiological and biochemical parameters in the mouse.
Effect of Water Roux Starter (Tangzhong) on Texture and Consumer Acceptance of Rice Pan Bread
Authors: Kim Sungchan , Kwak Han Sub , Jeong Yoonhwa
Published: June 2016

The physicochemical characteristics, texture profiles and consumer acceptance of rice pan bread with various levels of water roux starter (Tangzhong) were investigated. Water roux starter (1.5–6.0%, flour base) was added to the bread dough. The bread samples containing water roux starter had significantly higher moisture contents and specific volumes (P < 0.05). Water roux starter results in the bread having lower hardness, gumminess and chewiness, but there was no significant difference in cohesiveness and springiness. The results of the consumer acceptance test showed that the subjects were split into two groups; one consumer group (52.3%) preferred the bread with 4.5% and 6.0% (flour base) of water roux starter, and the other group (47.7%) preferred the control sample. Adding water roux starter decreased hardness of the bread so that it met the more than 50% of consumers who preferred soft texture. The textural change by adding water roux starter showed positive consumer acceptance in the rice pan bread.

Practical Applications

Texture of pan bread is one of key factor for bread quality. Additional ingredients such as glyceryl monostearate, various gums and/or methyl cellulose to make pan bread soft and glutinous are not necessary when water roux starter was applied in rice pan bread. Water roux starter can be applied to other bread making for baking soft and glutinous bread without any additional additives. In addition, water roux starter in the bread was effective in making same volume of bread with few amounts of ingredient, which is beneficial to bakery industry.
Differential activation of afferent neuronal and inflammatory pathways during small bowel obstruction (SBO)
Authors: Mueller M. H. , Zhao X. , Macheroux T. , Kasparek M. S. , Seeliger H. , Kreis M. E.
Published: June 2016

Background

Small bowel obstruction (SBO) is a potentially life‐threatening condition which may be caused by a variety of pathologies such as postoperative adhesions or malignant diseases. Little is known on alterations in gut physiology duringSBO, although its comprehension is essential to improve treatment which may help to prevent subsequent organ failure prior to surgical resolution. We aimed to investigate afferent nerve sensitivity and intestinal inflammatory response duringSBOto identify possible targets of treatment.

Methods

C57Bl6 mice were anesthetized, and a midline laparotomy was performed. A small bowel loop was ligated 5 cm proximal to ileo‐cecal valve to induceSBO. Control animals received a sham midline laparotomy.SBOanimals and controls were sacrificed after 3, 9, or 24 h (eachn= 6). A dilated segment of small intestine located 1.5 cm oral to the ligature was prepared for multi‐unit mesenteric afferent nerve recordingsin vitro. Histological assessment of leukocyte infiltration was performed by myeloperoxidase (MPO). Pro‐inflammatory cytokine expression was quantified byRT‐PCR. Data are mean ±SEM.

Key Results

Afferent firing to serosal 5‐HT(500μM) peaked at 3.9 ± 0.2 impulse/s 24 h after induction ofSBOcompared to 2.4 ± 0.1 impulse/s in sham controls (p< 0.05). Serosal bradykinin (0.5μM) led to an increase in peak afferent firing of 5.3 ± 0.5 impulse/s in 24 hSBOanimals compared to 3.5 ± 0.2 impulse/s in sham controls (p< 0.05). No differences in 5‐HTandBKsensitivity were observed in 3 and 9 hSBOanimals compared to controls. Continuous mechanical ramp distension of the intestinal loop was followed by a pressure‐dependent rise in afferent nerve discharge that was reduced in 3 hSBOanimals compared to sham controls (p< 0.05).MPOstains showed a rise in leukocyte infiltration of the intestine inSBOanimals at 9 and 24 h (p< 0.05). Il‐6 but notTNF‐a gene expression was increased at 9 and 24 h inSBOanimals compared to sham controls (p< 0.05).

Conclusions & Inferences

Afferent nerve sensitivity is increased 24 h after induction ofSBO.SBOled to a delayed onset intestinal inflammatory response. Inflammatory mediators released during this inflammatory response may be responsible for a later increase in afferent sensitivity. Agents with anti‐inflammatory action may, therefore, have a beneficial effect duringSBOand may subsequently help to prevent possible organ dysfunction.
Fatal warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia in a child due to IgM‐type autoantibodies
Authors: Takahashi Hiroyuki , Tanaka Fumiko , Sakuma Hiroyuki , Sato Mutsumi , Inaba Shoichi , Kai Sumio
Published: June 2016

Herein is described a case of immunoglobulin M (IgM) warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) in a child who consequently died within 3 days of clinical onset. A previously healthy 11‐year‐old boy presented with fever, anemia, jaundice, and deteriorating consciousness. On direct agglutination test against group O red blood cells, agglutination was seen even at 37°C in saline, which was abolished on dithiothreitol treatment of the serum, indicating that the responsible autoantibody was IgM and had a warm‐reactive capacity. A diagnosis of IgM warm AIHA was therefore made. Hemagglutination in the visceral capillaries was considered as the direct cause of organ dysfunction. The patient died due to respiratory failure. IgM warm AIHA is a very severe condition that is difficult to reverse in an advanced state. Both prompt, definite diagnosis and intervention are therefore vital to prevent severe multi‐organ dysfunction in cases of IgM warm AIHA.
Recapturing escaped fish from marine aquaculture is largely unsuccessful: alternatives to reduce the number of escapees in the wild
Authors: Dempster Tim , Arechavala‐Lopez Pablo , Barrett Luke T. , Fleming Ian A. , Sanchez‐Jerez Pablo , Uglem Ingebrigt
Published: June 2016

Farmed fish that escape and mix with wild fish populations can have significant ecological and genetic consequences. To reduce the number of escaped fish in the wild, recapture is often attempted. Here, we review the behaviours of escapees post‐escape, and how recapture success varies with escaped fish size, the size of the initial escape event and recapture methods. Success rates of fishing gears varied among species, with gill‐nets and coastal barrier nets most effective for recapture of salmonids. Recapture success was strongly negatively correlated with both fish size and the number of fish escaped, regardless of species. Recapture success was universally low across all studied species (8%). Numerous tracking studies of escaped fish indicate that recapture efforts should be initiated within 24 h of an escape incident for highest recapture success. However, most large escape events are due to storms, which mean recapture efforts rarely start within this timeframe. Recapture of escaped fish is broadly ineffective in marine habitats, with rare exception. High bycatch rates during ineffective recapture attempts imply that large‐scale recapture efforts should be weighed against the possibility of affecting wild fish populations negatively. We suggest three alternative approaches to reduce escapee numbers in wild habitats: (i) protect populations of predatory fish around sea‐cage farms from fishing, as they prey upon smaller escapees; (ii) construct impact offset programmes to target recapture in habitats where escapees can be efficiently caught; and (iii) ensure technical standards are legislated so that fish farmers invest in preventative technologies to minimize escapes.
Evaluation of cutaneous surface parameters in psoriatic patients
Authors: Cannavò S. P. , Guarneri F. , Giuffrida R. , Aragona E. , Guarneri C.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare cutaneous surface parameters in lesional and non‐lesional skin of psoriatic patients and in corresponding areas of control subjects.

Methods

Sixty‐six psoriatic patients (of any grade of severity, with or without arthritis, without any therapy other than systemic biologic drugs) and 28 healthy controls were enrolled in this observational, case–control study. Exclusion criteria were current or past sebo‐psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, pustular or erithrodermic psoriasis; treatment with immune‐suppressive agents, retinoids, or ultraviolet phototherapy in the last 6 months; topical treatment in the last 2 weeks. Corneometry, sebumetry, and pHmetry were evaluated on non‐lesional skin of forehead, cheek, chin and volar region of forearm, and on a psoriatic plaque (on elbow or neighboring areas); in controls, the same areas were considered.

Results

Corneometry values were significantly lower in psoriatic plaques vs. elbows of controls. Sebumetry showed significantly higher values in non‐lesional forearm skin and plaques of psoriatic patients vs. corresponding areas of controls. pH was significantly lower in all areas in psoriasis. No differences were found between patients treated or not with biologics and with or without arthritis.

Conclusion

Evaluating surface skin parameters in psoriasis is useful to better understand the etiopathogenic mechanism and could suggest new therapeutic approaches.
Sex differences in response to miRNA‐34a therapy in mouse models of cardiac disease: identification of sex‐, disease‐ and treatment‐regulated miRNAs
Authors: Bernardo Bianca C. , Ooi Jenny Y. Y. , Matsumoto Aya , Tham Yow Keat , Singla Saloni , Kiriazis Helen , Patterson Natalie L. , Sadoshima Junichi , Obad Susanna , Lin Ruby C. Y. , McMullen Julie R.
Published: June 2016

Key points

MicroRNA (miRNA)‐based therapies are in development for numerous diseases, including heart disease. Currently, very limited basic information is available on the regulation of specific miRNAs in male and female hearts in settings of disease. The identification of sex‐specific miRNA signatures has implications for translation into the clinic and suggests the need for customised therapy.

In the present study, we found that a miRNA‐based treatment inhibiting miRNA‐34a (miR‐34a) was more effective in females in a setting of moderate dilated cardiomyopathy than in males. Furthermore, the treatment showed little benefit for either sex in a setting of more severe dilated cardiomyopathy associated with atrial fibrillation.

The results highlight the importance of understanding the effect of miRNA‐based therapies in cardiac disease settings in males and females.

MicroRNA (miRNA)‐34a (miR‐34a) is elevated in the diseased heart in mice and humans. Previous studies have shown that inhibiting miR‐34a in male mice in settings of pathological cardiac hypertrophy or ischaemia protects the heart against progression to heart failure. Whether inhibition of miR‐34a protects the female heart is unknown. Furthermore, the therapeutic potential of silencing miR‐34a in settings of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and atrial fibrillation (AF) has not been assessed previously. In the present study, we examined the effect of silencing miR‐34a in males and females in (1) a model of moderate DCM and (2) a model of severe DCM with AF. The cardiac disease models were administered with a locked nucleic acid‐modified oligonucleotide (LNA‐antimiR‐34a) at 6–7 weeks of age when the models display cardiac dysfunction and conduction abnormalities. Cardiac function and morphology were measured 6 weeks after treatment. In the present study, we show that inhibition of miR‐34a provides more protection in the DCM model in females than males. Disease prevention in LNA‐antimiR‐34a treated DCM female mice was characterized by attenuated heart enlargement and lung congestion, lower expression of cardiac stress genes (B‐type natriuretic peptide, collagen gene expression), less cardiac fibrosis and better cardiac function. There was no evidence of significant protection in the severe DCM and AF model in either sex. Sex‐ and treatment‐dependent regulation of miRNAs was also identified in the diseased heart, and may explain the differential response of males and females. These studies highlight the importance of examining the impact of miRNA‐based drugs in both sexes and under different disease conditions.
Acoustically Coupled Combustion of Liquid Fuel Droplets
Authors: Karagozian Ann R.
Published: June 2016

The dynamics of oscillatory flames is relevant to acoustically coupled combustion instabilities arising in many practical engineering systems. This paper reviews fundamental studies that pertain to the combustion of single liquid fuel droplets in an acoustically resonant environment. This flow field is not only an idealized model for the study of the fundamental interaction of reactive, evaporative, acoustic, and other transport-based timescales, but it may also be used to identify relevant phenomena in more complex or practical geometries that require a focus for future combustion control efforts. The nature of these phenomena is discussed in detail, in addition to their implications for broader issues associated with combustion instabilities.
Effects of Strake Coverage and Marine Growth on Flexible Cylinder Vortex-Induced Vibrations1
Authors: Resvanis Themistocles L. , Rao Zhibiao , Kim Vandiver J.
Published: June 2016

This paper presents some results from the recent SHELL tests at the MARINTEK basin. The tests involved towing densely instrumented flexible cylinders at Reynolds numbers up to 220,000. The main objective is to present the experimental results describing the effectiveness of different amounts of strake coverage and to explore the influence of simulated marine growth. The data are presented in terms of cross-flow (CF) response amplitudes and rainflow-counted damage rates due to the combined CF and in-line (IL) bending stresses. All the results are compared with the bare cylinder cases which will be used as a reference to determine how effective the strakes are in suppressing vortex-induced vibrations (VIV) and how this effectiveness can be affected by marine growth. The results show that even small bare sections (missing strakes) can lead to significant VIV response. Finally, the tests revealed that even moderate amounts of marine growth can quickly negate any suppression coming from the strakes.
Examining Liquid Hydrogen Wettability Using Neutron Imaging
Authors: Konduru Vinaykumar , Bellur Kishan , Médici Ezequiel F. , Allen Jeffrey S. , Choi Chang Kyoung , Hussey Daniel S. , Jacobson David , Leão Juscelino B. , McQuillen John , Hermanson James C.
Published: June 2016

The control of propellant boil-off is essential in long-term space missions. However, a clear understanding of propellant cryogenic condensation/evaporation in microgravity is lacking. One of the key factors in designing such systems is the location of liquid surfaces and the relation to wettability. The BT-2 Neutron Imaging Facility located at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD, is used to image evaporation and condensation of hydrogenated propellants inside of an aluminum 6061 container. Liquid hydrogen has larger neutron cross-section area than the aluminum, allowing the visualization of the liquid-vapor interface. The test cell has a conical section that enables determination of a contact angle with enhanced accuracy. If the contact angle is equal to the angle of the cone, a flat liquid-vapor interface is expected. The test cell has the cone angle of 10o and a flat interface was not observed. Using the Laplace-Young equation to fit the interface, the contact angle for hydrogen and aluminum was between 0° and 4°. The theoretical Laplace curves with contact angles of 2o and 10o are plotted on the liquid-vapor interface. The of 2o curve is a closer fit as compared to the 10o curve. The uncertainty arises from resolution limits of the neutron imaging setup and edge detection. More details on the neutron imaging mechanism and relevant physics can be found from the authors' other publication of Cryogenics, 74, pp131-137, 2016: doi:10.1016/j.cryogenics.2015.10.016.
Effect of Applying Advanced Optimization Techniques for the One-Dimensional Cutting Stock Problem
Authors: Savsani Vimal , Savsani Poonam , Arya Prashant
Published: June 2016

The one-dimensional cutting stock problem is a linear optimization problem that is categorized as NP-Hard. This problem has a large number of applications in a number of different industries. Though a number of traditional methods have been applied to solve this problem, these methods are not as effective as advanced optimization techniques to find the global optimum of NP-Hard problems. In this paper, a combination of three such advanced methods has been used to solve the Cutting Stock Problem: the firefly algorithm (FFA), the bat algorithm (BA) and the teaching-learning based optimization (TLBO). The results of provided by these algorithms are compared on the basis of the optimality of the solution and for three individual case studies as well as by the convergence of the algorithms. It was found that the teaching-learning based optimization technique performed well in both the optimality as well as the convergence.
Dynamic Programming Based Algorithm for Compressor Station Optimization
Authors: Zhang Xiaorui , Wu Changchun , Zuo Lili , Meng Xiangyan
Published: June 2016

The process of determining how to operate a compressor station, providing that its volumetric flow rate, suction pressure and suction temperature have already been fixed, to meet a required discharge pressure with the minimum energy cost is called compressor station optimization. In this paper, the process of formulating a compressor station’s operation scheme is transformed into a multistage decision-making process and within each stage, the volumetric flow rate of a single compressor is decided. The multistage process starts from setting the flow rate of the first compressor and ends when that of the last one is set. With this basic idea in mind, a dynamic programming based algorithm is proposed to solve the optimization problem, which has advantages of tackling the non-linearity and discontinuity of the problem effectively and resulting in a global optimum. The algorithm is tested on an in-service compressor station, and a successful 5.1% energy cost reduction was achieved. Discretization step size analysis on the specific problem reveals that a 2% step size is suitable for stand-alone usage while the 7.5% step size is enough for embedded situation. Comparison with a simple genetic algorithm shows that the proposed method performs better under moderate and coarse step size, which is satisfactory from an engineering aspect.
Modern Software Infrastructure for Industrial Selection Tools
Authors: Cortese Carlo , Calamari Marco A. , Spagli Paolo
Published: June 2016

This paper aims to discuss 30 years of evolution of technical design tools (software and architecture) in GE Oil&Gas. Most important changes are highlighted, as well as some promising evolutionary paths. Legacy codes are the heritage of industrial companies from 70s and 80s. FORTRAN was used in order to automate the calculation the engineers had to perform to design turbines or compressors. The results of legacy codes were files that contain several information’s, relevant to stage geometry and performances, which could be used to generate drawings or to evaluate machines operability. However this large amount of data was spread on different computer and each designer was keeping track manually of the files modification. In order to better archive those data in 2000 most of the companies started to use databases and created modern user interfaces: in this way the users can dialog with a friendly interface and retrieve the data in a more organized format. The discussion on how to link the legacy codes and the database is still on going. Some GUIs are installed on different computer and interact on a centralized database, but in 2010 a more robust architecture started to be used transforming the GUI and the calculation in a centralized system based on web application. This allowed creating a solid and scalable environment since the legacy code and DB can be installed in servers reachable through the net by each user, simplifying the installation and maintenance issue. With INDUSTRIAL INTERNET advent more interaction between tools is required and Application Programming Interfaces (API) permit to have a direct interaction among tools without human interface, and the applications can directly interact with other programs.
Synthesis of N-Lobed Involute Modified Noncircular Bevel Gears
Authors: Shi Kan , Xia Jiqiang , Wang Chunjie , Geng Chunming , Wang Rui
Published: June 2016

Noncircular bevel gears (NBG) can achieve variable transmission between intersecting axes. The transmission ratio function is obtained when giving the involute NBG’ pitch curve equations during their pure rolling. The relationship of least number of teeth avoiding undercutting and the pitch curve curvature of NBG is analyzed. Being directed against N-lobed involute NBG drive, a kind of varying-coefficient-profile-shift-modification method has been presented. The equations of the modified addendum and dedendum curves are implemented. The algorithm for generating tooth profile of NBG by shaper cutter under UG platform is proposed and significant examples are included. The 3D models of a pair of conjugate N-lobed involute modified NBG are demonstrated to verify the correctness of this modification method.
A Multi-Level Meta-Model for Simulation of Traffic Evacuation With Multi-Variability
Authors: Yuan Shengcheng , Liu Yi , Wang Gangqiao , Ma Yefeng , Zhang Hui
Published: June 2016

The variability of driving behaviors plays an important role in the complexity of traffic systems, especially during emergencies. Due to the difference of driving behaviors in different regions, situations and time, a single simulation model can hardly describe a changing traffic evacuation system well. This paper presents a multi-level meta-model based on common characteristics of driving behaviors to solve the problem of the compatibility of different simulation models, allowing simulation systems using multi-model instead of a single model. It includes four activities: decision, game, individual and transform. Traditional simulation models can be integrated into part of the frame according to the interfaces of the four activities, and the frame is responsible for the interaction of all the models in different activities. A series of numerical experiments proves that the framework is able to present the systematic differences generated by the variability of driving behaviors, which is significant to decision support in emergency management.
A Methodological Approach for Supporting the Thermal Design of Li-Ion Battery for Customized Electric Vehicles
Authors: Landi Daniele , Cicconi Paolo , Germani Michele
Published: June 2016

An important issue in the mechanical industry is the reduction of the time to market, in order to meet quickly the customer needs. This goal is very important for SMEs that produce small lots of customized products. In the context of greenhouse gas emissions reduction, vehicles powered by electric motors seem to be the most suitable alternative to the traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. The market of customized electric vehicles is a niche market suitable for SMEs.

Nowadays, the energy storage system of an electric vehicle powertrain consists of several Li-ion cells arranged in a container called battery pack. Particularly, the battery unit is considered as the most critical component in electric vehicle, because it impacts on performance and life cycle cost. Currently, the design of a battery pack mostly depends on the related market size. A longer design time is expected in the case of a large scale production. While a small customized production requires more agility and velocity in the design process.

The proposed research focuses on a design methodology to support the designer in the evaluation of the battery thermal behavior. This work has been applied in the context of a customized small production. As test case, an urban electric light commercial vehicle has been analyzed. The designed battery layout has been evaluated and simulated using virtual prototyping tools. A cooling configuration has been analyzed and then prototyped in a physical vehicle. The virtual thermal behavior of a Li-ion battery has been validated at the test bench. The real operational conditions have been analyzed reproducing several ECE-15 driving cycles and many acceleration runs at different load values. Thermocouples have measured the temperature values during the physical experiments, in order to validate the analytical thermal profile evaluated with the proposed design approach.
Framing Engineering Problems: Basic Concept
Authors: Fukuda Shuichi
Published: June 2016

There are two kinds of knowledge in engineering. One is rational knowledge. We understand the phenomena and we can apply rational approaches. The other is knowledge about phenomena which we do not understand well, but which we can control and utilize for engineering. For example, we do not understand arc phenomena well, although there are tremendous amount of work about arc. If we do, we could prevent thunder and lightning. However, we utilize arc for welding. Without arc, most of our bridges, buildings, etc would not have been built.

As Engineering is a DO activity and we do not have to UNDERSTAND the phenomena as scientists do. What is very important in engineering is how we can utilize such knowledge about these phenomena, which we do not understand well, but which we can control. And to develop a safe and secure system, we have to let them work in good harmony.

This is the problem of frames as AI researchers call it. Although this is still an open question in AI, engineers have to go beyond the bounded rationality. This paper describes the basic concept of how we engineers could possibly tackle this problem.
Aerodynamic Optimization in Light Weight Solar Vehicle Design
Authors: de Kock J. P. , Janse van Rensburg N. , Kruger S. , Laubscher R. F.
Published: June 2016

Solar car racing has created a competitive platform for research into alternative energies, particularly the utilization of solar energy. This paper reports on a numerical optimization of the vehicle body shape, utilizing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Optimization and validation of the body shape, fairing position, body-and-fairing fillet blend, fairing leading edge curvature, driver position and canopy design were considered. For the purposes of this study, the fairing and driver position optimization will be discussed as a case study to illustrate the design and optimization methodology with the improved product of area and the coefficient of drag (ACd) values recorded. The algorithms developed and procedures followed to adapt the design of the vehicle are presented. The algorithms applied relied on comparing designs based on evaluating shape function curves representing the normalized (body length) sectional area of the body under consideration. With the aid of numerical analysis software and applying the design optimization algorithm by evaluating ACd, it was possible to optimize the shape of the main wing and the placement of the fairings and the driver compartment/canopy. The results of the CFD simulation showed there was a direct correlation between the drag coefficient and the shape function. By utilizing this methodology, significant improvements to the coefficient of drag could be realized. A reduction of 31% in the coefficient of drag was achieved by moving the centered driver position to the side. This design change then also contributed to an energy saving of 442.6 Watt at a speed of 100km/h.
A Physical Hand Tremor Simulator for Use With Inclusive Design Research
Authors: Immel Sebastian R. , Kiff Robin E. , Armstrong Jessica L. , Stone Robert B.
Published: June 2016

Essential Tremor (ET) is the most common movement disorder among adults. This paper presents a device to induce the effects of ET in the wrists and hands of otherwise healthy research participants for use in inclusive design studies. The device, called “The HandShake,” reproduces the functional impairment of ET sufferers on design study participants. Existing solutions can require complex or expensive equipment. The HandShake uses a novel low-cost system based around a single RC servo. Users of the device in validation testing were found to be impaired in a manner similar to ET sufferers. This tool is intended to aid future inclusive design research regarding upper extremity disabilities. We present results regarding the validity of the simulated tremors versus data from those suffering with ET.
Experimental Verification and Finite Element Analysis of Automotive Door Hinge
Authors: Doğan S. , Guven C. , Karpat F. , Yilmaz T. G. , Dogan O.
Published: June 2016

In automotive industry, achieving lightweight, low-cost, reliable and more accurate product design are the most important goal. Using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is an important tool for achieving this since it decreases prototyping cost and time. Cars have different door system and one of the important part of them is door hinge. An automotive door hinge is mainly composed of three elements, fixed part, mobile part and hinge pin that fasten fixed part and mobile parts. Manufacturers have to perform tests and analysis for ensuring international and customer requirements.

In this study, FEA results are compared with static and dynamic test results of front door hinge of automotive according to International specifications. The agreement between the computed and measured values is shown.
Visual Product Evaluation: Using the Semantic Differential to Investigate the Influence of Basic Geometry on User Perception
Authors: Achiche Sofiane , Maier Anja , Milanova Krasimira , Vadean Aurelian
Published: June 2016

Products evoke emotions in people. Emotions can influence purchase decisions and product evaluations. It is widely acknowledged that better product performance and higher user satisfaction can be reached through aesthetic design. However, when designing a new product, most of the attention is generally paid to enhance its functionality and usability and much less consideration is given to the emotional needs of users.

This paper investigates the connection between emotions and product features. Various forms of vases are used as a product case. Additionally, a compact list of product-specific semantic descriptors is first developed using a classification based on Jordan’s four pleasures model. Paper-based surveys, face-to-face interviews, and statistical methods were performed in this paper, where significant correlations between semantic descriptors and product geometry were found. Prototypes of two vases were developed based on elicited emotions and a short validation on aesthetic value was performed. Our results show core set of geometric features of a vase have the strongest impact on emotional responses from users: the opening of the neck, the height of the neck, the base of the neck (width), and the base (width).
Optimal design of a hysteretic vibration absorber using fixed-points theory
Authors: Wong Wai On
Published: June 2016

H ∞ optimum parameters of a dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) using a hysteretic or structural damping element have been derived analytically for suppressing vibration of a single degree-of-freedom (SDOF) system excited by harmonic forces or due to ground motions. Although the frequency response function of the traditional DVA (TDVA) with viscous damping may be converted to that of the hysteretic DVA (HDVA) using the equivalent viscous damping coefficient, it is found that the two frequency response functions are not equivalent after the optimization process. Therefore, the optimum parameters of the HDVA are derived using the fixed-points theory rather than converted directly from the TDVA model. The analytical results show that the optimized hysteretic vibration absorber can provide a similar vibration reduction effect as the optimized traditional dynamic vibration absorber at the resonance of a SDOF primary vibrating system. Advantages as well as the limitations of the fixed-points theory for the H∞ optimization of the hysteretic dynamic vibration absorbers using the fixed-points theory are discussed.
The influence of native-language tones on lexical access in the second language
Authors: Shook Anthony , Marian Viorica
Published: June 2016

When listening to speech in a second language, bilinguals' perception of acoustic-phonetic properties is often influenced by the features that are important in the native language of the bilingual. Furthermore, changes in the perception of segmental contrasts due to L1 experience can influence L2 lexical access during comprehension. The present study investigates whether the effect of L1 experience on L2 processing seen at the segmental level extends to suprasegmental processing. In an eye-tracking task, Mandarin–English bilinguals heard an auditorily presented English word and selected which of two visually presented Chinese characters represented the correct Mandarin translation. The pitch contour of the spoken word was manipulated to either match or mismatch the lexical tone of the Mandarin translation. Results revealed that bilinguals were significantly faster to correctly identify the target and made earlier eye movements to targets when the suprasegmental information of the word spoken in English matched that of its Mandarin translation. The findings provide compelling evidence for bilinguals' sensitivity to suprasegmental tone information, even when listening to a non-tonal language. These results have important implications for the effect of L1 experience on L2 lexical access and language interaction in bilinguals, and are consistent with a highly interactive account of language processing.
Distilling complexity to advance cardiac tissue engineering
Authors: Ogle Brenda M. , Bursac Nenad , Domian Ibrahim , Huang Ngan F. , Menasché Philippe , Murry Charles E. , Pruitt Beth , Radisic Milica , Wu Joseph C. , Wu Sean M. , Zhang Jianyi , Zimmermann Wolfram-Hubertus , Vunjak-Novakovic Gordana
Published: June 2016

Five central challenges must be met to advance the current state of the art in modeling heart disease and realizing heart repair.
How Can Vaccines Contribute to Solving the Antimicrobial Resistance Problem?
Authors: Lipsitch Marc , Siber George R.
Published: June 2016

There is a growing appreciation for the role of vaccines in confronting the problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Vaccines can reduce the prevalence of resistance by reducing the need for antimicrobial use and can reduce its impact by reducing the total number of cases. By reducing the number of pathogens that may be responsible for a particular clinical syndrome, vaccines can permit the use of narrower-spectrum antibiotics for empirical therapy. These effects may be amplified by herd immunity, extending protection to unvaccinated persons in the population. Because much selection for resistance is due to selection on bystander members of the normal flora, vaccination can reduce pressure for resistance even in pathogens not included in the vaccine. Some vaccines have had disproportionate effects on drug-resistant lineages within the target species, a benefit that could be more deliberately exploited in vaccine design. We describe the effects of current vaccines in controlling AMR, survey some vaccines in development with the potential to do so further, and discuss strategies to amplify these benefits. We conclude with a discussion of research and policy priorities to more fully enlist vaccines in the battle against AMR.
MetaPalette: a
k
-mer Painting Approach for Metagenomic Taxonomic Profiling and Quantification of Novel Strain Variation
Authors: Koslicki David , Falush Daniel
Published: June 2016

Taxonomic profiling is a challenging first step when analyzing a metagenomic sample. This work presents a method that facilitates fine-scale characterization of the presence, abundance, and evolutionary relatedness of organisms present in a given sample but absent from the training database. We calculate a “
k
-mer palette” which summarizes the information from all reads, not just those in conserved genes or containing taxon-specific markers. The compositions of palettes are easy to model, allowing rapid inference of community composition. In addition to providing strain-level information where applicable, our approach provides taxonomic profiles that are more accurate than those of competing methods.
Unclassified tibial hemimelia
Authors: Senthil Vishnu , Kottamttavide Imthias V , Shah Hitesh
Published: June 2016

Tibial hemimelia (congenital longitudinal deficiency of the tibia) is rare (1 in 1 000 000). There are several classifications in the literature. We report an unclassified case of tibial hemimelia. A 6-year-old girl presented with shortening of the right lower limb, with a small rudimentary foot (presence of all toes) and hyper lax ankle. Quadriceps function was excellent. Radiograph showed a partial tibia and fibula in synostosis. The Jones and Kalamachi type 2 classifications both mention similar tibial anomalies; however, the fibula is normal in both varieties. The present variety can be considered as a variant of type 2 tibial hemimelia.
Higher fasting plasma glucose is associated with striatal and hippocampal shape differences: the 2sweet project
Authors: Zhang Tianqi , Shaw Marnie , Humphries Jacob , Sachdev Perminder , Anstey Kaarin J , Cherbuin Nicolas
Published: June 2016

Objective

Previous studies have demonstrated associations between higher normal fasting plasma glucose levels (NFG) (<6.1 mmol/L), type 2 diabetes (T2D) and hippocampal atrophy and other cerebral abnormalities. Little is known about the association between plasma glucose and the striatum despite sensorimotor deficits being implicated in T2D. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between plasma glucose levels and striatal and hippocampal morphology using vertex-based shape analysis.

Design

A population-based, cross-sectional study.

Setting

Canberra and Queanbeyan, Australia.

Participants

287 cognitively healthy individuals (mean age 63 years, 132 female, 273 Caucasian) with (n=261) or without T2D (n=26), selected from 2551 participants taking part in the Personality & Total Health (PATH) Through Life study by availability of glucose data, MRI scan, and absence of gross brain abnormalities and cognitive impairment.

Outcome measures

Fasting plasma glucose was measured at first assessment, and MRI images were collected 8 years later. Shape differences indicating outward and inward deformation at the hippocampus and the striatum were examined with FMRIB Software Library-Integrated Registration and Segmentation Toolbox (FSL-FIRST) after controlling for sociodemographic and health variables.

Results

Higher plasma glucose was associated with shape differences indicating inward deformation, particularly at the caudate and putamen, among participants with NFG after controlling for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), hypertension, smoking and depressive symptoms. Those with T2D showed shape differences indicating inward deformation at the right hippocampus and bilateral striatum, but outward deformation at the left hippocampus, compared with participants with NFG.

Conclusions

These findings further emphasize the importance of early monitoring and management of plasma glucose levels, even within the normal range, as a risk factor for cerebral atrophy.
Research priorities relating to the debate on assisted dying: what do we still need to know? Results of a modified Delphi technique
Authors: Rodgers Mark , Booth Alison , Norman Gill , Sowden Amanda
Published: June 2016

Objective

To identify the main areas of uncertainty and subsequent research priorities to inform the ongoing debate around assisted dying.

Design

Two-round electronic modified Delphi consultation with experts and interested bodies.

Setting and participants

110 groups and individuals interested in the subject of end-of-life care and/or assisted dying were approached to participate. Respondents included health and social care professionals, researchers, campaigners, patients and carers predominantly based in the UK. In the first round, the respondents were asked to propose high-priority research questions related to the topic of assisted dying. The collected research questions were then deduplicated and presented to all respondents in a second round in which they could rate each question in terms of importance.

Results

24% and 26% of participants responded to the first and second rounds, respectively. Respondents suggested 85 unique research questions in the first round. These were grouped by theme and rated in terms of importance in the second round. Emergent themes were as follows: palliative care/symptom control; patient characteristics, experiences and decisions; families and carers; society and the general public; arguments for and against assisted dying; international experiences/analysis of existing national data; suicide; mental health, psychological and psychosocial considerations; comorbidities; the role of clinicians; environment and external influences; broader topics incorporating assisted dying; and moral, ethical and legal issues. 10 of the 85 proposed questions were rated as being important (≥7/10) by at least 50% of respondents.

Conclusions

Research questions with the highest levels of consensus were predominantly concerned with understanding how and why people make end-of-life decisions, and which factors influence those decisions. Dissemination of these findings alongside a focused examination of the existing literature may be the most effective way to add evidence to the ongoing debate around assisted dying.
Using a simple handover to improve the timing of gentamicin levels
Authors: Williamson Andrew , Bradley Alison , Khan Khurram
Published: June 2016

The aminoglycoside gentamicin is commonly used in many NHS trusts to cover gram negative organisms in intra-abdominal sepsis and sepsis of unknown origin. As a result it often forms an important part of thew "Sepsis 6" protocol on surgical wards. Despite it's effectiveness, the antibiotic is well known to have nephrotoxic and ototoxic side effects, making monitoring of serum levels vital. In Hairmyres Hospital, a busy district general hospital in Lanarkshire, levels are typically taken at six to 14 hour post-dose intervals, with the result guiding further gentamicin dosing.

A baseline measurement was performed highlighting that 42.2% of these levels were taken after the 14 hour limit. This was thought to have serious implications for patient's, as levels designed to protect them from side effects whilst maintain g an effective antimicrobial action were not being performed properly. As a result, a "gentamicin handover" was introduced to the wards in order to ease the workload on junior staff and improve handover between teams.

During our short project the number of late levels initially dropped to 33.3% after one week, falling further to 28.6% following the second week of intervention. From our results it is clear that while more intervention is required gentamicin prescription, this project highlights how a simple intervention to improve ward handover can create a very noticeable improvement in the quality of patient care within a small time period.
Introduction of point of care analysis for prescribing warfarin at a Swedish primary care centre
Authors: Fernholm Rita , Hermansson Jonas
Published: June 2016

Boo Health Centre in Nacka, Sweden, manages approximately 240 patients on warfarin treatment. A risk analysis showed that testing and prescribing of warfarin involved 28 different steps and nine parties, leading to a high risk of errors.

The aim of the study was to shorten and simplify the process flow for the testing and prescription of warfarin by introducing point of care analysis (POC). The aim was also to evaluate changes in time expenditure and cost related to the new processes well as the quality in form of time in therapeutic range (TTR) and number of adverse events.

A study with POC was performed during six months in 2014. Time expenditure, cost, TTR, and adverse events related to warfarin treatment were recorded. An evaluation was also conducted in the form of surveys to patients and staff regarding satisfaction with the new process.

The process was shortened from 28 steps and nine parties involved to nine steps and four parties involved. The patient got their test result and met with the prescribing doctor, all within the same visit, meaning that the feedback time for patients was shortened from one to three days by mail to less than 10 minutes at the medical centre. TTR did not change and the incidence of adverse events was not affected. The surveys showed that the overwhelming proportion of patients, doctors, assistant nurses, and laboratory staff were pleased with the changes and the patients would recommend others to monitor their treatment at Boo Health Centre. There was a reduction in time expenditure for the staff. The costs decreased from approximately 8 000 €/month to about 7 000 €/month.

The introduction of the POC method enabled a shorter process flow with reduced time expenditure for both patients and staff and reduced costs. TTR did not change. Patients and staff were satisfied with the changes and the patients could take a more active role in their treatment. It is possible that POC analysis may have implications on improved compliance to warfarin treatment, if so, it will increase patient safety.