bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on kinematics and inverse dynamics of legged mobile manipulator for determining feet-terrain reaction forces and joint torques
Authors: Bhavanibhatla Kondalarao , Pratihar Dilip Kumar
Published: October 2018

Legged mobile manipulator is a robotic system that consists of a serial manipulator rigidly mounted on a multi-legged platform. Its high mobility and dexterity makes this robotic system more suitable to be used in disaster management and space applications, where there will be an uneven and unstructured terrain. However, its high power consumption and low stability under external disturbances are the challenges to be solved. In this paper, an attempt is made to determine the feet-terrain reaction forces and joint actuating torques, which ensures the minimum power consumption. Initially, the kinematic model of the robotic system is developed using general-purpose rigid body analysis. Newton–Euler approach is then utilized to formulate the coupled dynamics of this multi-body system. The developed inverse dynamics model considers the inertial effects of the manipulator and moving legs on the trunk body and stationary legs. However, it has no unique solution due to its high redundancy. Therefore, it has been formulated as an optimization problem in order to minimize the power consumption after satisfying some functional constraints. The performance of the developed approach has been tested on computer simulations. The results show that the developed model can efficiently study the kinematics and dynamics of the legged mobile manipulator and also explain the nature of shifting of center of gravity of the combined robotic system due to the movement of the manipulator links. The developed model is a generalized one and it can be used for carrying out stability analysis and designing suitable controller for the combined robotic system.
Contingent Attentional Engagement: Stimulus- and Goal-Driven Capture Have Qualitatively Different Consequences
Authors: Zivony Alon , Lamy Dominique
Published: October 2018

We examined whether shifting attention to a location necessarily entails extracting the features at that location, a process referred to as attentional engagement. In three spatial-cuing experiments ( N = 60), we found that an onset cue captured attention both when it shared the target’s color and when it did not. Yet the effects of the match between the response associated with the cued object’s identity and the response associated with the target (compatibility effects), which are diagnostic of attentional engagement, were observed only with relevant-color onset cues. These findings demonstrate that stimulus- and goal-driven capture have qualitatively different consequences: Before attention is reoriented to the target, it is engaged to the location of the critical distractor following goal-driven capture but not stimulus-driven capture. The reported dissociation between attentional shifts and attentional engagement suggests that attention is best described as a camera: One can align its zoom lens without pressing the shutter button.
Feasibility of wastewater resource recovery using pilot-scale membrane reactor with long-term operation
Authors: Odey Emmanuel A , Wang Kaijun , Li Zifu , Giwa Abdulmoseen S , Abo Bodjui O
Published: October 2018

With the growing interest in resource recovery from wastewater, research has been put forward to realize this aim using different approaches. Here, we considered several conditions necessary for the experiment, with the primary goal of recovering concentrates suitable for biogas recovery and water reuse through the pilot-scale membrane reactor (PSMR). The new concept enables the feasibility of recovering permeates and concentrates directly from the PSMR. From the results obtained, permeate chemical oxygen demand was within 20 mg/L to 38 mg/L; the total nitrogen yielded an average value of 22.14 ± 3.53 mg/L; ammonia yielded an average value of 13.34 ± 1.18 mg/L; and the total phosphorus presented a value of 0.46 ± 0.32 mg/L. Permeates recovered from the experiment feature potential use for agriculture, groundwater, and lake recharge, as the chemical oxygen demand, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and ammonia contents are low and acceptable for these purposes. Concentrates from two days of solid retention time ranged from 6050 mg/L to 10,000 mg/L, which was suitable for anaerobic digestion for biogas recovery. A further experiment is suggested to enable the removal of more ammonia, total phosphorus, and total nitrogen in permeate to enable its use for a domestic purpose.
Accurate model identification of the inertial mass dynamic of hydraulic cylinder with model uncertainty
Authors: Jin Liyang , Wang Qingfeng
Published: October 2018

In this study, a novel double-layered network scheme is proposed for accurate and efficient identification of hydraulic cylinder. The model of real hydraulic cylinder is usually partly known. If gray-box methods or black-box methods are used alone for this kind of system, parameter accuracy, simulation accuracy, the conciseness of identified result and the ease of implementation usually cannot be satisfied at the same time. The proposed double-layered network combines the advantages of gray-box and black-box methods. Accurate parameters of known model are obtained by random sample consensus algorithm in the first layer, even with modeling error. Thus, the value of unknown model can be obtained. Then the unknown model is identified by a simple black-box method in the second layer. Therefore, complete model can be obtained precisely and concisely. The overall method is easy to implement and the obtained physical parameters and model can help the controller design in industries. The proposed method is verified through simulation and real system tests, compared with several existing identification methods. Remarkable results are achieved by double-layered network in the identifications of inertial mass dynamic of hydraulic cylinder.
NIR gas phase spectroscopy – Pressure broadening effects
Authors: Todd Terry R , Foulk Susan J
Published: October 2018

Near infrared spectroscopy (NIR) spectroscopy is a routine measurement and analysis tool for both liquid and solid samples in a wide variety of industries and locations, both process and laboratory. Studies in gas phase measurement are not as common, but highlight some of the capabilities of the technique. This short article will review some gas phase measurements of pure materials and look at different pressure broadening effects.
The blood–brain barrier, TWEAK, and neuropsychiatric involvement in human systemic lupus erythematosus and primary Sjögren’s syndrome
Authors: Lauvsnes M B , Tjensvoll A B , Maroni S S , Kvivik I , Grimstad T , Greve O J , Harboe E , Gøransson L G , Putterman C , Omdal R
Published: October 2018

Objective

A prevailing hypothesis for neuropsychiatric involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and primary Sjögren’s syndrome is that brain reactive autoantibodies enter the brain through a disrupted blood–brain barrier. Our aim was to investigate whether TNF-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) plays a role in cerebral involvement in human SLE and primary Sjögren’s syndrome, and whether an impaired blood–brain barrier is a prerequisite for neuropsychiatric manifestations.

Methods

TWEAK was measured in the cerebrospinal fluid and serum and compared with markers of blood–brain barrier permeability (Q-albumin and MRI contrast-enhanced lesions) and S100B, an astrocyte activation marker in 50 SLE and 52 primary Sjögren’s syndrome patients. Furthermore, we estimated the general intrathecal B-cell activation (IgG index), measured anti-NR2 antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid, and explored whether these variables were associated with neuropsychiatric manifestations.

Results

No associations were found between TWEAK in the cerebrospinal fluid or serum and neuropsychiatric manifestations in SLE nor in primary Sjögren’s syndrome patients. Furthermore, no associations were found between neuropsychiatric manifestations and indicators of blood–brain barrier integrity or astroglial activity. Anti-NR2 antibodies were associated with impaired visuospatial processing (odds ratio 4.9, P = 0.03) and motor functioning (odds ratio 6.0, P = 0.006).

Conclusion

No clinical neuropsychiatric manifestations could be attributed to impaired integrity of the blood–brain barrier, or to TWEAK levels in cerebrospinal fluid or serum in either patient group. The TWEAK concentration was considerably higher in the cerebrospinal fluid than in blood, which indicates intrathecal production. We hypothesize that increased TWEAK and S100B result from immunological stress caused by brain-reactive antibodies produced by brain residing immune cells.
A comparison of non-linear regression methods for improved on-line near infrared spectroscopic analysis of a sugarcane quality measure
Authors: Sexton Justin , Everingham Yvette , Donald David , Staunton Steve , White Ronald
Published: October 2018

On-line near infrared (NIR) spectroscopic analysis systems play an important role in assessing the quality of sugarcane in Australia. As quality measures are used to calculate the payment made to growers, it is imperative that NIR models are both accurate and robust. Machine learning and non-linear modelling approaches have been explored as methods for developing improved NIR models in a variety of industrial settings, yet there has been little research into their application to cane quality measures. The objective of this paper was to compare chemometric models of commercial cane sugar (CCS) based on four calibration techniques. CCS was estimated using partial least squares regression (PLS), support vector regression (SVR), artificial neural networks (ANNs) and gradient boosted trees (GBTs). Model performance was assessed on an independent validation data set using root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) and r2 values. SVR (RMSEP = 0.37%; r2 = 0.92) and ANN (RMSEP = 0.36%; r2 = 0.93) performed similarly to PLS (RMSEP = 0.37%; r2 = 0.92) on the validation data set, while GBT exhibited a much lower skill (RMSEP = 0.51%; r2 = 0.85). Analysis of important wavelengths in each model showed that PLS regression, SVR and ANN techniques emphasized the importance of similar spectral regions. Future research should consider testing model robustness over seasons and/or regions. Comparisons of chemometric models should consider reporting variable importance as a way of understanding how models use spectral information.
Effect of once-only flexible sigmoidoscopy screening on the outcomes of subsequent faecal occult blood test screening
Authors: Brown Jeremy P , Wooldrage Kate , Kralj-Hans Ines , Wright Suzanne , Cross Amanda J , Atkin Wendy S
Published: October 2018

Objective

To investigate the outcomes of biennial guaiac faecal occult blood test (gFOBT) screening after once-only flexible sigmoidoscopy (FS) screening.

Methods

Between 1994 and 1999, as part of the UK FS Screening Trial (UKFSST), adults aged 55–64 were randomly allocated to an intervention group (offered FS screening) or a control group (not contacted). From 2006, a subset of UKFSST participants (20,895/44,041 intervention group; 41,497/87,149 control group) were invited to biennial gFOBT screening by the English Bowel Cancer Screening Programme. We analysed gFOBT uptake, test positivity, yield of colorectal cancer (CRC), and positive predictive value (PPV) for CRC, advanced adenomas (AAs), and advanced colorectal neoplasia (ACN: AA/CRC).

Results

Uptake of gFOBT at first invitation was 1.9% lower (65.7% vs. 67.6%, p < 0.01) among intervention versus control group participants. Positivity was 0.4% lower (2.0% vs. 2.4%, p < 0.01) and CRC yield was 0.08% lower (0.19% vs. 0.27%, p = 0.14). PPVs were also lower in the intervention versus control group, at 10.3% vs. 12.3% ( p = 0.44) for CRC, 22.7% vs. 31.4% ( p < 0.01) for AA, and 33.0% vs. 43.7% ( p < 0.01) for ACN. Among those who refused FS ( n = 5532), gFOBT uptake at first invitation was 47.7%, CRC yield was 0.25%, and PPV for ACN was 46.2%. Among FS attenders ( n = 15,363), uptake was 72.2%, CRC yield was 0.18%, and PPV for ACN was 27.9%.

Conclusions

Uptake, positivity and PPV of gFOBT screening were reduced following prior offer of FS screening. However, a quarter of FS screened participants receiving a diagnostic examination after positive gFOBT were diagnosed with ACN.
A Mathematical Demonstration of the Viability of Profit/Loss Sharing as a Debt Alternative in Presence of Market Frictions
Authors: Wolf Franziska , Nabin Munirul H. , Bhattacharya Sukanto
Published: October 2018

We posit a simple mathematical model to show that a profit-and-loss sharing contract can be formed between a capital seeker and capital provider as a potential alternative to institutional debt financing. The major methodological tool used is that of Nash bargaining; utilising the matching theory proposition of Pissarides (2000). Our posited model demonstrates that a ‘match’ between a capital seeker and a capital provider can occur even in the presence of embedded market frictions arising out of information asymmetries as are especially rife in the emerging markets. This is an important result especially for marginal borrowers in emerging economies and we present supporting empirical evidence that indicates profit-and-loss sharing being increasingly seen as an effective alternative financing to long-term borrowing.

JEL Classification: C78, D53, G23
Health-Related Beliefs, Practices, and Experiences of Migrant Dominicans in the Northeastern United States
Authors: Sobon Sensor Constance
Published: October 2018

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to describe cultural health beliefs, practices, and experiences with professional health care in the United States by migrants from the Dominican Republic because their practices are largely unknown to professional providers. Method: A qualitative descriptive design was used, guided by Leininger’s culture care theory and four-phase analysis method with a convenience sample of 15 self-identified migrant Dominican adults in three interpreter-assisted focus groups, in a familiar apartment. Results: The following four themes emerged: Stress affects health and well-being, family support and faith in God are essential, use of folk care and professional care to treat illness and maintain health, and access to care, cost, communication and expressions of caring practices affect perceptions about the quality of professional care. Discussion: Results informed development of specific strategies to provide culturally responsive care and risk-reduction interventions that promote health and improve quality of care in the Dominican community.
Secreted Heat Shock Protein 90α Attenuated the Effect of Anticancer Drugs in Small-Cell Lung Cancer Cells Through AKT/GSK3β/β-Catenin Signaling
Authors: Du Yingying , Wu Jin , Luo Le
Published: October 2018

Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) represents the progressive form of lung cancer. Patients with SCLC have poor prognosis, partially due to drug resistance. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanism for drug resistance in SCLC is needed to improve clinical outcomes. The concentrations of heat shock protein 90α (HSP90α) in medium were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The protein levels were detected by Western blot. Cell apoptosis was detected by propidium iodide staining in cell lines or terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling staining in tumor sections. Doxorubicin (DOX) was administered into cultured cell lines or intraperitoneally injected into xenograft mouse to induce apoptosis. In SCLC cell lines, either DOX or ABT-737 increased extracellular HSP90α levels, which attenuated the percentage of apoptotic cells. Extracellular HSP90α activated Ak strain transforming (AKT) and β-catenin signaling and inhibited glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) signaling. In the xenograft mouse model, extracellular HSP90α promoted tumor development and inhibited apoptosis of tumor cells. Heat shock protein 90α attenuates the efficacy of anticancer drugs in SCLC cells through AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin signaling.
Home Health Care of Veterans
Authors: Cook Jan
Published: October 2018

This commentary familiarizes the reader with prevalent issues regarding home health care of veterans. The primary issue is the unfamiliarity of the caretaker—most often a family member—in understanding benefits, and accessing social support resources. Frequently caretakers experience depression resulting from the stress of the situation; therefore, their physical and mental health needs must be addressed. There is a need for increased training and education of health care workers, social workers, and caregivers, so that concerted support is present for veterans requiring home health care.
The girl with the eyeball tattoo—what the ophthalmologist may expect? Case report and a review of literature
Authors: Tubek Katarzyna , Berus Tomasz , Leszek Robert
Published: October 2018

Introduction:

We report a case of patient who underwent bilateral eyeball tattoo procedure for cosmetic purpose complicated with intraocular dye injection which led to ocular inflammation, secondary glaucoma, and cataract.

Case description:

A 21-year-old female presented to emergency department with severe right eye pain and photophobia 21 days after conjunctival tattooing procedure. Slit-lamp examination revealed right-sided eyelid edema and black deposits of tattoo ink under the bulbar conjunctiva. Dye deposits were also present in anterior chamber, covering corneal endothelium, iris and anterior lens’ capsule. Ocular inflammation and secondary glaucoma were diagnosed. The patient underwent surgical treatment to control ocular inflammation. Intraocular pressure remained stable after Nd:YAG iridotomy and on topical drugs. Moreover, during the follow-up, in contralateral eye, we observed “conjunctival lumps”—local hypersensitivity reaction to the dye, which were asymptomatic to the patient.

Conclusion:

Eyeball tattooing complications are new challenges that ophthalmologist may have to face nowadays. We also reviewed for the first time possible complications of eyeball tattooing described in available literature.
The longitudinal associations among grandparent–grandchild cohesion, cultural beliefs about adversity, and depression in Chinese rural left-behind children
Authors: Li Qianyu , Zhang Wenxin , Zhao Jingxin
Published: October 2018

This study examined the effects of grandparent–grandchild cohesion on the cross-lagged associations between depression and cultural beliefs about adversity in a sample of 625 rural left-behind children in China. Grandparent–grandchild cohesion was concurrently and longitudinally associated with children’s depression and cultural beliefs about adversity. Cultural beliefs about adversity mediated the associations between grandparent–grandchild cohesion and children’s depression, while depression mediated the associations between grandparent–grandchild cohesion and children’s beliefs about adversity. Left-behind status differences were also found in mediation models. These findings suggest the important role of grandparent–grandchild cohesion in left-behind children’s adjustment.
A cost-benefit analysis of the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies programme using its key defining outcomes
Authors: Steen Scott
Published: October 2018

The economic argument underpinning the Improving Access to Psychological Therapy programme has been a central component in its initial and continued investment. Using open-access data, this article undertook a cost-benefit analysis using the programme’s key defining outcomes to determine its return-on-investment. It was found that in terms of investment and efficiency gains, the programme was in the higher ends of the cost spectrum for delivering psychological therapies. Although cost-estimates appear promising at first, when set in the context of a lower number of treatment contacts and a high proportion of early disengagement, estimates increased sharply.
Drinking and dreaming in the dormitories: Workers struggle in times of economic development
Authors: Sosna Daniel , Brunclíková Lenka
Published: October 2018

This article focuses on alcohol consumption among the migrant workers living in the dormitories in the Pilsen region, Czech Republic, to understand different notions of personhood in the changing and uncertain environment of multinational industrial companies. The authors combined garbological analysis of waste with interaction with the inhabitants of two dormitories to account for potential bias in exploring a sensitive topic such as alcohol consumption. They argue that drinking provides an arena for becoming a person embedded in social relations, acting and experiencing the world in a way that contrasts with the neoliberal emphasis on individuality and flexibility. It is a strategy that pursues stability and mutuality in uncertain times. Also, drinking helps to temporarily escape inequality and dissatisfaction with the living conditions of those who became doomed to the symbolic bottom of the social hierarchy.
Fiber-reinforced polymer composites test specimen design for selected damage mechanisms
Authors: Brunner Andreas J
Published: October 2018

Fiber-reinforced polymer composites yield a range of microscopic damage mechanisms even under apparently “simple” load cases, e.g. quasi-static uniaxial tensile tests to failure. Even reducing the fiber-reinforced polymer composite to a single fiber embedded in a matrix will produce several different damage types under quasi-static tensile loading. These are fiber breaks and simultaneous fiber–matrix debonding as well as friction between fiber and debonded matrix, and sometimes, additional matrix cracks. Acoustic emission monitoring of mechanical load tests on material specimens or components is often used to identify the occurrence of damage and attempts at locating the source and identifying the damage mechanism or type in a wide range of materials. The complex damage behavior of fiber-reinforced polymer composites poses a challenge in that respect. Therefore, various approaches (e.g. pattern recognition or neural networks) have been developed to identify the different microscopic damage mechanisms from acoustic emission signals obtained from various load tests. For improved understanding of the damage mechanisms in fiber-reinforced polymer composites as well as for validating the procedures for identifying the types of mechanisms, fiber-reinforced polymer specimens showing a “single dominant damage mechanism”, i.e. occurring in significantly larger number than all others, at least in certain stages of damage accumulation or in localized volume elements, can be designed. The contribution discusses and classifies selected examples of single dominant damage mechanism for fiber-reinforced polymer composites and their application.
Semi-analytical modeling of steady weak shock wave front for solid metals following the Swegle–Grady relation
Authors: Hallajisany M , Vitoria J Albelda , Zamani J
Published: October 2018

In this article, the stress–time or speed–time relations for steady weak shock wave fronts and their effective parameters were studied for solid metals (except alkaline metals). The purpose was to determine the effective parameters for steady shock wave fronts and find the relations for prediction of the shape of these profiles in pure metals. First, the range of the steady weak shock wave was determined. Then, based on an empirical relationship for the maximum strain rate in the weak shock wave regime, a relation was assumed for the whole weak shock wave front. Then by utilizing simplified assumptions, such as elastic-perfectly plastic material model, a stress change equation and by integration, two implicit equations were obtained for describing the weak shock wave front profile that one of them was used in the calculations. Subsequently, the strain-hardening material model was used. The strain-hardening material model was further simplified as piecewise linear functions. The same procedure was followed in the strain-hardening model. The results show that the proposed weak shock wave model is adequate for an elastic-perfectly plastic material or a material in which its yield stress has slight change during wave rise. The results of solving the equations simulated the profile of the steady weak shock wave fronts and the strain-hardening model has a better solution than the elastic-perfectly plastic model.
Properties–microstructure relationship in Al–Fe in situ composite produced by friction stir processing
Authors: Najafi Alireza , Movahedi Mojtaba , Yarandi Ali Sadoughi
Published: October 2018

Effects of Fe particle volume percent (from 0 to 5%) and changing the tool rotation direction in each pass were studied on the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of the in situ Al/intermetallic composites produced by three passes friction stir processing (FSP) with ∼10 µm Fe particles. Optical and scanning electron microscopes were used for the investigation of the composite homogeneity, formation of Al–Fe intermetallic compounds, and fracture surfaces. Tensile and microhardness tests were also carried out to evaluate the mechanical properties of the composites. Solid-state reactions between the aluminum matrix and Fe particles led to in situ formation of Al3Fe and Al5Fe2 intermetallics in the composite. Changing the tool rotation direction in each pass reduced asymmetrical distribution of the reinforcing particles and resulted in better dispersion of Fe particles. Increase in the particle volume percent refined the composite average grain size from ∼35 μm in the sample processed without particles to ∼6 μm in the composite included 5 vol.% of the Fe particles. Zener limiting grain size relationship was used to estimate the volume fraction of the sub-micron particles in the composites. Enhancement of the reinforcing particle volume percent (to 5%) increased ultimate tensile strength and yield strength of the composite up to ∼60% and ∼95%, respectively, due to finer grain structure as well as the higher load-bearing capacity of the Fe and intermetallic reinforcing particles compared to the aluminum matrix. Contributions of the Hall–Petch effect and the other strengthening mechanisms in the yield strength of the composites were also investigated.
Assessment of air management strategies on particulate number and size distributions from a 2-stroke compression-ignition engine operating with gasoline Partially Premixed Combustion concept
Authors: Bermúdez Vicente , Ruiz Santiago , Novella Ricardo , Soto Lian
Published: October 2018

The newly designed partially premixed combustion concept has demonstrated its potential to reduce nitrogen oxides and particulate matter emissions combined with highly indicated efficiencies. However, it is highly dependent of the ignition characteristics of the fuel and the air/fuel mixture preparation. Therefore, the proper selection of an injection strategy, of the combustion chamber design and of the air management strategy are critical to ensuring successful partially premixed combustion operation in the full engine map. The objective of the present investigation is to evaluate the use of multiple air management strategies over the air/fuel effective equivalence ratio ( ϕeff) and cylinder charge reactivity and its consequent impact on particle number emissions and particle size distribution. Tests were carried out in a newly designed 2-stroke high-speed direct-injection compression-ignition engine operating with partially premixed combustion concept using 95-research-octane-number gasoline fuel. A scanning mobility particle sizer was used to measure the size distribution of engine-exhaust particles in the range from 6.3 to 237 nm. Three different steady-state operation modes in terms of indicated mean effective pressure and engine speed were investigated. The experiments showed an increase in the particle number emissions and a progressive shift in the particle size toward larger sizes, increasing the accumulation-mode particles and reducing the nucleation-mode particles with the decrease in the differential pressure between intake and exhaust (Δ P) and the valve overlap period. Finally, the particle formation process was limited by the increase in the exhaust gas recirculation rate.
Hardware-in-the-loop simulation of fuel control actuator of a turboshaft gas turbine engine
Authors: Salehi Amin , Montazeri-Gh Morteza
Published: October 2018

The turboshaft engine is the major component in the propulsion system of most marine vehicles, and proper control of its function as a sub-system in the propulsion system has a direct impact on the performance of the vehicle’s propulsion control system. The engine performance control is performed through the fuel control system. The fuel control system of a turboshaft gas turbine engine consists of two parts: electronic control unit and fuel control unit which is the actuator of the fuel control system. In this article, a hardware-in-the-loop simulation is presented for testing and verifying the performance of the fuel control unit. In the hardware-in-the-loop simulation, the fuel control unit in hardware form is tested in connection with the numerically simulated model of engine and electronic control unit. In this simulation, a Wiener model for the turboshaft engine is developed which is validated with the experimental data. Subsequently, a multi-loop fuel controller algorithm is designed for the engine and the parameters are optimized so that the time response and physical constraints are satisfied. In the next step, a state-of-the-art hydraulic test setup is built and implemented to perform the hardware-in-the-loop test. The test system contains personal and industrial computer, sensors, hydraulic components, and data acquisition cards to connect software and hardware parts to each other. In this hardware-in-the-loop simulator, a host–target structure is used for real-time simulation of the software models. The results show the effectiveness of hardware-in-the-loop simulation in fuel control unit evaluation and verify the steady and transient performance of the designed actuator.
Comparison of Two Different Techniques for Isolated Left Subclavian Artery Revascularization During Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair in Zone 2
Authors: Piffaretti Gabriele , Pratesi Giovanni , Gelpi Guido , Galli Mario , Criado Frank J. , Antonello Michele , Fontana Federico , Piacentino Filippo , Macchi Edoardo , Tozzi Matteo , Castelli Patrizio , Barbante Matteo , Ippoliti Arnaldo , Romagnoni Claudia , Antona Carlo , Paggi Anita , Xodo Andrea , Grego Franco
Published: October 2018

Purpose: To analyze the results of isolated left subclavian artery (LSA) revascularization during thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) using carotid-subclavian bypass (CSbp) or chimney grafts (CGs). Methods: A retrospective multicenter, observational study identified 73 patients (mean age 68±13 years, range 22–87; 56 men) with acute or chronic thoracic aortic lesions who underwent TEVAR with isolated LSA revascularization using either CSbp (n=42) or CGs (n=31) from January 2010 and February 2017. Primary endpoints were TEVAR-related mortality, postoperative stroke, freedom from type Ia endoleak, and LSA patency. Results: Primary technical success was achieved in all cases. Early TEVAR-related mortality was 4.2% (CSbp 2% vs CG 6%, p=0.571). Two (3%) patients had major ischemic strokes (one in each group). Mean follow-up was 24±21 months (range 1–72; median 15). Estimated freedom from TEVAR-related mortality was 93%±3% (95% CI 84.3% to 97.0%) at 12 and 36 months, with no significant difference between CSbp and CG (p=0.258). Aortic reintervention did not differ between the groups (CSbp 5% vs CG 6%, p=0.356); nor did freedom from type Ia endoleak (CSbp 98% vs CG 87%, p=0.134). Gutter-related endoleaks occurred in 4 (13%) CG patients, but none of the patients experienced sac enlargement or the need for reintervention and none died. Primary patency of the LSA was 100% for the entire group during the observation period. Conclusion: In our experience, LSA revascularization proved most satisfactory and equally effective with both the CSbp and CG techniques, without discernible differences at midterm follow-up.
Investigation on the mechanical behavior of areca sheath fibers/jute fibers/glass fabrics reinforced hybrid composite for light weight applications
Authors: Jothibasu S , Mohanamurugan S , Vijay R , Lenin Singaravelu D , Vinod A , Sanjay MR
Published: October 2018

Hybrid polymeric composites are gaining important consideration with versatile applications due to their good mechanical properties. The present study is an attempt to evaluate the hybridization effects of different laminate stacking sequence involving areca sheath fiber/jute fiber/glass-woven fabric through the study of mechanical properties of four different resulting composites. The fibers were alkali-treated and were used in composites fabrication that was done using the hand lay-up method. This assessment of mechanical properties and study of fractured surfaces indicated a significant improvement in mechanical properties of the composites with jute fiber as intermittent layers, areca sheath fiber as a core layer, and glass fabrics as skin layer reinforced epoxy composites. An attempt to prove the application suitability of “L” frame for flower stand application was fabricated using the best mechanical behavior performer composite, and the ANSYS (deformation) analysis was also performed.
Who Knows More About Politics? A Dual Explanation for the Gender Gap
Authors: Miller Melissa K.
Published: October 2018

Numerous studies have documented a gender gap in political knowledge. Men score higher than women on quiz-style survey questions testing knowledge of national-level electoral politics and the “rules of the game.” Structural, situational, and psychological factors have been examined as possible explanations, but a residual gap remains after they are controlled. Two broad explanations have been advanced in the literature. First, women’s differential propensity to respond “don’t know” depresses their scores when correct answers to knowledge questions are tallied. Second, political knowledge questions typically focus on national-level electoral politics and the rules of the game, a focus that privileges men. This article joins these two broad explanations. Using a statewide survey of Ohio voters, it provides clear evidence that the residual gender gap in political knowledge is an artifact of measurement. Both the don’t know response and a focus on national-level politics and the rules of the game favor men.
The Use of a Novel Super-Oxidized Solution on Top of Standard Treatment in the Home Care Management of Postsurgical Lesions of the Diabetic Foot Reduces Reinfections and Shortens Healing Time
Authors: Iacopi Elisabetta , Abbruzzese Lorenza , Goretti Chiara , Riitano Nicola , Piaggesi Alberto
Published: October 2018

There are still many unmet needs in the treatment of chronic wounds, especially regarding microenvironment modulation. Nexodyn is a novel super-oxidized solution capable of contrast bacterial proliferation. We aimed to evaluate if this solution, on top of standard of care, was safe and effective in improving diabetic foot outcome. We selected 50 patients admitted in our department to be submitted to surgery for acute diabetic foot infection. All patients were left open to heal for secondary intent. We divided patients into 2 groups: Group A (n = 25, male/female = 17/8, age = 67.3 ± 12.1 years, hemoglobin A1C = 7.9 ± 1.1%), patients treated with standard of care and, on top of this, Nexodyn solution, and Group B, treated only with standard of care. After discharge, patients continued Nexodyn application. We followed up patients until complete healing or up to 6 months. No differences between groups in healing rate, while time required for complete healing was significantly shorter in Group A (64.9 ± 12.1 days vs 147.4 ± 23.1 days, P < .01). During follow-up, the group treated with Nexodyn showed a reduced rate of reinfections (12 patients in Group B vs 3 patients in Group A, P < .05) and of further debridement procedures (1 patient in Group A vs 10 patients in Group B, P < .05). Nexodyn provided effective protection against reinfections in diabetic foot patients, thus reducing the necessity for debridement procedures and their healing time and presents a safety profile similar to saline solution.
Effect of thermal relaxation on residual stress and microstructure in the near-surface layers of dual shot peened Inconel 625
Authors: Wu Lihong , Jiang Chuanhai
Published: October 2018

Thermal relaxation behavior of residual stress and microstructure in the near-surface layers of dual shot peened Inconel alloy 625 was investigated by X-ray diffraction method. Residual stress on the top surface layer was significantly relaxed in the first 15 min at the elevated temperatures of 500°C, 600°C, and 700°C. However, there was still high maximum compressive residual stress in subsurface layers. The relaxation behavior of residual stress has contributed to the thermally activated process. The activation enthalpy Δ H and m were calculated according to the Zener–Wert–Avrami method, the values of which were 1.59 eV and 0.4934, respectively. Microstructural evaluation revealed that it was slightly changed in the near-surface layers after various isothermal treatments. Accordingly, high level of compressive residual stress and dislocation density resulted in the retained mechanical properties of dual shot peened Inconel 625, which was discussed based on the relaxation of microstructure and microhardness.
Experimental measurements of the flow field around a film-cooled blade leading edge using particle image velocimetry
Authors: Dávalos Ramírez José Omar , García Castrejón Juan Carlos , Carrillo Pereyra Francisco , Ponce Corral Carlos , Ramírez Espinoza Carlos Felipe , Pérez Arturo Paz
Published: October 2018

In this article, particle image velocimetry studies were conducted in a low-speed wind tunnel to investigate the effects of blowing ratio and blade span in terms of the characteristics of the flow field around a film-cooled blade leading edge. The measurements were performed at 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% of blade span and blowing ratios of M = 0.5, M = 0.75, M = 1, M = 1.5, and M = 2. Velocity, turbulence intensity, and structure of vortices during the interaction between cooling flow and mainstream were analyzed in detail. The analysis shows a significant increase in mainstream velocity at low blowing ratios, M < 1. Peaks of turbulence were observed at low- and high-span locations. Aerodynamical losses are expected at higher blowing ratios due to the formation of secondary vortices near the outgoing jet. These vortices were a consequence of velocity gradients at this zone.
Heat dissipation performance of electric vehicle cabin under natural wind cooling
Authors: Xu Xiaoming , Fu Jiaqi , Hu Donghai , Li Renzheng
Published: October 2018

This article researches the influence of different air-outlet modes of electric vehicle power cabin basing on natural wind cooling. The results indicate that combining with simulation calculation and field synergy analysis method, it is rapid and accurate to choose the best air-outlet mode; when the temperature gradient value is constant, the field synergy number increases with the vehicle speed, which improves the heat dissipation performance of battery. Through the research, the heat dissipation performance of up-outlet with two-holes mode is best while both-sides outlet mode is worst, which is validated by heat flow field characteristic analysis of electric vehicle power cabin at different ambient temperatures. The temperature variation curve of down-outlet mode is steeper than other air-outlet modes, which shows the more obvious improving ability of heat dissipation performance along with the increased vehicle speed.
Predictors and patterns of portal use in patients with multiple chronic conditions
Authors: Powell Kimberly R , Deroche Chelsea
Published: October 2018

Objective

To explore predictors of portal use by patients (registered portal users) with multiple chronic conditions according to demographic characteristics and use of specific features hypothesized to support self-management.

Methods

Two data sources were used in this analysis: electronic health records and 12 months of data from web server log files. Patients ( n = 500) included in the analysis were 45 years or older, registered portal users, and diagnosed with at least two chronic conditions. We fit a negative binomial regression model to predict portal use (number of logins) based on practice size and location, demographic characteristics, and use of specific portal features (secure messaging and patient-entered data).

Results

Among patients with one or more logins, age, distance separating the patient from his or her primary care provider, and having a diagnosis of heart failure were significant predictors of portal use ( p < .05). No significant differences in portal use were found according to gender, ethnicity, or practice size and location.

Conclusion

Considering the extraordinary investment on implementation and meaningful use of portal technology, low overall use and the large number of registered non-users is especially troubling. Regardless, our results demonstrate potential opportunities to leverage portal technology especially for patients living in rural and underserved areas to improve self-management of chronic illness.
Examining the use of consent forms to promote dissemination of research results to participants
Authors: Curran Dorothyann , Kekewich Mike , Foreman Thomas
Published: October 2018

It is becoming widely recognized that dissemination of research results to participants is an important action for the conclusion of a research study. Most research institutions have standardized consent documents or templates that they require their researchers to use. Consent forms are an ideal place to indicate that results of research will be provided to participants, and the practice of inserting statements to this effect is becoming more conventional. In order to determine the acceptance of this practice across Canada we conducted an assessment of 121 institutional consent document templates from 65 institutions (hospitals and universities) looking for language that endorsed results dissemination to participants. About half (51%) of the documents we examined had language included which stated that results should be made available. In an era where research participation in hospital settings and universities is becoming ubiquitous there should be a reciprocal expectation that results should be provided. The success of research should be measured in part by its accessibility and dissemination to all stakeholders.
Do we still adhere to the norms of ancient Egypt? A comparison of Ptahhotep’s communication ethics with current regulatory principles
Authors: Löwstedt Anthony
Published: October 2018

Values and norms for communication expressed in the ancient Egyptian treatise, The Teachings of Ptahhotep, are compared to current regulatory communication standards, especially the IFJ Declaration of Principles on the Conduct of Journalists, and to liberal and socialist ideologies. Ptahhotep argued in favour of basic equalities, respect, and the free flow of information and opinions, particularly for political speech, much like social democracy and political liberalism do. He also set limits regarding freedom of communication similarly: for hate speech, incitement to violence, defamation, invasion of privacy and concentration of ownership. The close parallels between the principles of communication ethics in ancient Egypt and today are partly explained with a look at similarly restructuring powers of innovative phonographic media (writing) then and prographic (electronic programming) media now, and partly with (indirect) influence. The article also asks whether the concept of ‘Western civilization’ should continue to exclude ancient Egypt.
HIV blocks Type I IFN signaling through disruption of STAT1 phosphorylation
Authors: Nguyen Nam V , Tran James T , Sanchez David Jesse
Published: October 2018

This study investigates the modulation of Type I IFN induction of an antiviral state by HIV. IFNs, including IFN-α, are key innate immune cytokines that activate the JAK/STAT pathway leading to the expression of IFN-stimulated genes. IFN-stimulated gene expression establishes the antiviral state, limiting viral infection in IFN-α-stimulated microenvironments. Our previous studies have shown that HIV proteins disrupt the induction of IFN-α by degradation of IFN-β promoter stimulator-1, an adaptor protein for the up-regulation and release of IFN-α into the local microenvironment via the retinoic acid-inducible gene 1-like receptor signaling pathway. However, IFN-α is still released from other sources such as plasmacytoid dendritic cells via TLR-dependent recognition of HIV. Here we report that the activation of the JAK/STAT pathway by IFN-α stimulation is disrupted by HIV proteins Vpu and Nef, which both reduce IFN-α induction of STAT1 phosphorylation. Thus, HIV would still be able to avoid antiviral protection induced by IFN-α in the local microenvironment. These findings show that HIV blocks multiple signaling points that would lead to the up-regulation of IFN-stimulated genes, allowing more effective replication in IFN-α-rich environments.
A Safety and Cost Analysis of Outpatient Versus Inpatient Hindfoot Fusion Surgery
Authors: Moon Andrew S. , McGee Andrew S. , Patel Harshadkumar A. , Cone Ryan , McGwin Gerald , Naranje Sameer , Shah Ashish
Published: October 2018

Background. Hindfoot fusion procedures are increasingly being performed in the outpatient setting. However, the cost savings of these procedures compared with the risks and benefits has not been clearly investigated. The objective of this study was to compare patient characteristics, costs, and short-term complications between inpatient and outpatient procedures. Methods. This was a retrospective review of all patients who underwent inpatient and outpatient hindfoot fusion procedures by a single surgeon, at 1 academic institution, from 2013 to 2017. Data collected included demographics, operative variables, comorbidities, complications, costs, and subsequent reencounters. Results. Of 124 procedures, 34 were inpatient and 90 were outpatient. Between procedural settings, with the numbers available, there was no significant increase in complication rate or frequency of reencounters within 90 days. There were no significant differences in the number of patients with reencounters related to the index procedure within 90 days (P = .43). There were 30 reencounters within 90 days after outpatient surgery versus 4 after inpatient surgery (P = .05). The total number of emergency room visits in the outpatient group within 90 days was significantly higher compared with the inpatient group (P = .04). The average cost for outpatient procedures was US$4159 less than inpatient procedures (P < .0001). Conclusion. Outpatient hindfoot fusion may be a safe alternative to inpatient surgery, with significant overall cost savings and similar rate of short-term complications. On the basis of these findings, we believe that outpatient management is preferable for the majority of patients, but further investigation is warranted.

Levels of Evidence: Level III