bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design Method of 6-DOF Parallel Manipulators by Investigating the Incidence Relation Between Inputs and Outputs
Authors: Yue Yi , Gao Feng , Wei Baochen , Dong Yi , Yu Hongnian
Published: January 2016

This paper focus on the design of 6-DOF parallel manipulators. By investigating the incidence relation between inputs and outputs of the 6-DOF parallel manipulators, a design method for 6-DOF parallel manipulators is proposed. Using the method, a new 6-DOF type is obtained. In the future, a prototype will be manufactured to study the relative performances under the guidance of the proposed methods.
Radial Basis Function Methods for Fractional Derivative Applications
Authors: Fu Zhuo-Jia
Published: January 2016

In recent decades, the theoretical researches and experimental results show that fractional derivative model can be a powerful tool to describe the contaminant transport through complex porous media and the dynamic behaviors of real viscoelastic materials. Consequently, growing attention has been attracted to numerical solution of fractional derivative model. Radial basis function (RBF) meshless technique is one of the most popular and powerful numerical methods, which are mathematically simple, and avoid troublesome mesh generation for high-dimensional problems involving irregular or moving boundary. Recently, RBF-based meshless methods, such as the Boundary Particle Method and the Method of Approximate Particular Solutions, have been successfully applied to fractional derivative problems. The Boundary Particle Method is one of truly boundary-only RBF collocation schemes, which employs both the semi-analytical basis functions to approximate the FDE solutions. Inspired by the boundary collocation RBF techniques, the Method of Approximate Particular Solutions is one of the domain-type RBF collocation schemes with easy-to-use merit, which employs the particular solution RBFs for the solution of FDEs. This study will make a numerical investigation on the abovementioned RBF meshless methods to fractional derivative problems. The convergence rate, numerical accuracy and stability of these schemes will be examined through several benchmark examples.
Dynamic Characteristics of Double Helical Planetary Gear Train With Tooth Friction
Authors: Lu Fengxia , Zhu Rupeng , Wang Haofei , Bao Heyun , Li Miaomiao
Published: January 2016

A new nonlinear dynamics model of the double helical planetary gear train with 44 degrees of freedom is developed, and the coupling effects of the sliding friction, time-varying meshing stiffness, gear backlashes, axial stagger as well as gear mesh errors, are taken into consideration. The solution of the differential governing equation of motion is solved by variable step-size Runge-Kutta numerical integration method. The influence of tooth friction on the periodic vibration and nonlinear vibration are investigated. The results show that tooth friction makes the system motion become stable by the effects of the periodic attractor under the specific meshing frequency and leads to the frequency delay for the bifurcation behavior and jump phenomenon in the system.
Evaluation of Brain Models to Control a Robotic Origami Arm Using Holographic Neural Networks
Authors: Romero J. A. , Diago L. A. , Shinoda J. , Hagiwara I.
Published: January 2016

In robotics, one of the most difficult task is to perform a precisely and fast movement of a robotic arm. For paper-folding robots, it is still extremely difficult to execute the required manipulations of the paper mainly because the difficulties in modeling and control of the paper. In this paper two control models are proposed to solve this problem. One of the best approaches comes from Neuroscience, where using a human’s brain inspired control system known as Cerebellar control model (CCM), precisely and fast movements of a robotic arm can be performed. In the CCM a Feedback controller motor command is used as a target signal to train an Artificial Neural Network (NN), and use the output of the NN as a Feed-forward signal. In this paper two training methods were evaluated in order to improve the behavior in CCM: the traditional Back propagation and a Holographic method.
The Application of Load Spectrum Compiling Methods in Gears in Power Split Device
Authors: Chen Hongbin , Li Yan , Wu Yuqian
Published: January 2016

The fatigue and fracture of gears in Power Split Device (PSD) can be sensitive to stochastic load which is often difficult to be measured and predicted. Due to the load randomness associated with the mode-switch in a hybrid car, non-parametric extrapolation (NPE) method can be applied in the load spectrum compiling of PSD. In this paper, a kernel selection method based on the multiple-criteria decision making method (MCDM) was presented to improve the accuracy of the kernel density estimation. According to the dynamic and contact analysis of gears, a short-term bending stress spectrum was calculated to provide the reference for the fatigue design. Based on the NPE method considering the kernel selection, a whole-life load spectrum was compiled to supply the input data for the fatigue life test of PSD.
Integrating Multibody Simulations With SysML
Authors: Gross Johannes , Mukherjee Rudranarayan
Published: January 2016

In this paper we will show an integration of a JPL-internal multi body simulation tool within the Systems Modeling Language (SysML) tool MagicDraw. The SysML provides the means to model requirements, functions, structure and behavior of a system. Integrating a multi body physics simulation with this language creates a seamless way to combine system level questions with the detailed design. The integration allows for the import and export of the simulation models as well as the definition of metrics on the simulation. The system model can be used to express the requirements, the tests that verify the satisfaction and the implementation of the system according to these requirements. Having all the different aspects in one central model reduces the thread of inconsistencies through reuse and linking of model elements. The SysML model allows for an easier creation of large models and the integration with other disciplines is already prepared.
Interfacial versus filamentary resistive switching in TiO2 and HfO2 devices
Authors: Sassine Gilbert , La Barbera Selina , Najjari Nabil , Minvielle Marie , Dubourdieu Catherine , Alibart Fabien
Published: January 2016

In this paper, the authors focus on two well-identified switching mechanisms, namely, interfacial (or homogeneous) switching and filamentary switching. These switching mechanisms have been reported in various devices, but a broader analysis remains to be conducted. By comparing the performances of TiO2- and HfO2-based resistive switching devices in terms of variability, retention, controllability, and switching energy, the authors discuss how oxygen vacancies organization can determine a general set of properties that will define the range of applications that could be envision for each material/device technology.
Characterization of nanometric inclusions via nanoprojectile impacts
Authors: Clubb Aaron B. , Eller Michael J. , Verkhoturov Stanislav V. , Schweikert Emile A. , Anderson Rachel M. , Crooks Richard M.
Published: January 2016

Analysis of ultrasmall dendrimer encapsulated gold nanoparticles utilizing a 520 keV Au4004+ projectile probe is presented. Cores of 55, 147, and 225 Au atoms encapsulated in poly(amido amine) dendrimer were investigated. An innovative methodology of event-by-event bombardment-detection was utilized. The comparison of mass spectra of these samples shows that the secondary ion yield of Au moieties varies linearly with the number of Au atoms. Further, the agglomerates locate preferentially between two branches of the dendrimer structure. This observation demonstrates the ability of our secondary ion mass spectrometry methodology to probe chemical environments around nanoscale inclusions.
Effects of fluid medium flow and spatial temperature variation on acoustophoretic motion of microparticles in microfluidic channels
Authors: Liu Zhongzheng , Kim Yong-Joe , Wang Han , Han Arum
Published: January 2016

A numerical modeling method for accurately predicting the acoustophoretic motion of compressible microparticles in microfluidic devices is presented to consider the effects of fluid medium flow and spatial temperature variation that can significantly influence the acoustophoretic motion. In the proposed method, zeroth-order fluid medium flow and temperature, and first- and second-order acoustic fields in the microfluidic devices are first calculated by applying quadratic mapping functions and a second-order finite difference method (FDM) to perturbed mass, momentum, and energy conservation equations and state equation. Then, the acoustic radiation force is obtained based on the Gorkov's acoustic radiation force equation and applied to the Newton's Equation of Motion to calculate the microparticle motion. The proposed method was validated by comparing its results to a commercial software package, COMSOL Multiphysics results, one-dimensional, analytical modeling results, and experimental results. It is shown that the fluid medium flow affects the acoustic radiation force and streaming significantly, resulting in the acoustic radiation force and streaming prediction errors of 10.9% and 67.4%, respectively, when the fluid medium flow speed is increased from 0 to 1 m/s. A local temperature elevation from 20 °C to 22 °C also results in the prediction errors of 88.4% and 73.4%.
School-Based Fundamental-Motor-Skill Intervention for Children With Autism-Like Characteristics: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Bremer Emily , Lloyd Meghann
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this pilot study was to demonstrate the impact of a fundamentalmotor-skill (FMS) intervention on the motor skills of 3- to 7-year-old children with autism-like characteristics in an early intervention classroom. A secondary purpose was to qualitatively assess the impact of the program as described by the classroom’s special education teacher. All children in the classroom (N = 5) took part in an FMS intervention for two 6-wk blocks (fall 2013 and winter 2014). Motor-skill proficiency and social skills were assessed at 3 times: baseline, after Block 1 of the intervention, and after Block 2 of the intervention. In addition, an interview was conducted with the classroom teacher after Assessment 3 to draw further insights into the relative success and impact of the program. Results were analyzed through a visual analysis and presented individually. They indicated improvements in the participants’ individual FMS and social-skill scores, possible improvements in declarative knowledge, and an increase in the special education teacher’s readiness to teach FMS; further research with larger, controlled samples is warranted.
Protein homeostasis limiting cancer
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: January 2016

A protein involved in protein homeostasis limits the maturation of IGF1R and the overproduction of blood cells.
Secondary infection of haematoma following closed acromioclavicular joint dislocation
Authors: Dupley Leanne , Berg Andrew James , Mohil Randeep
Published: January 2016

An unusual case of a patient presenting with a large infected haematoma following a traumatic grade II acromioclavicular joint dislocation is reported. Diagnosis of this rare complication, of an otherwise common self-limiting injury, was delayed until 19 days postinjury despite several presentations during this time with worsening swelling and pain. The patient was found to have significant tissue destruction by the time washout was performed and required multiple procedures to treat the infection. This case highlights the need for a high index of suspicion for complications, even following common self-limiting injuries, when patients represent with symptoms that do not fit the usual natural history of the condition, particularly if they have risk factors for bleeding and infection.
Assessment of the quality and content of national and international guidelines on hypertensive disorders of pregnancy using the AGREE II instrument
Authors: Bazzano Alessandra N , Green Erik , Madison Anita , Barton Andrew , Gillispie Veronica , Bazzano Lydia A L
Published: January 2016

Objectives

High-quality evidence-based clinical practice guidelines can guide diagnosis and treatment to optimise outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality and content of national and international guidelines on hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Data Sources: The MEDLINE database, the National Guideline Clearinghouse and several international databases were searched for appropriate guidelines from the past 10 years. Study Appraisal and Synthesis Methods: Six guidelines met inclusion and exclusion criteria and were evaluated using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) instrument.

Results

A total of 695 records were identified and screened by two authors. Disorder definitions, classifications, preventive measures and treatment recommendations were evaluated and compared among guidelines. AGREE II results varied widely across domains and categories. Only two guidelines received consistently high ratings across domains and few demonstrated a high level of methodological rigour. Recommendations regarding classification and treatment were similar across guidelines, while assessment of preventive measures varied widely.

Conclusions

Clinical practice guidelines for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy vary significantly in quality and with respect to assessment of preventive measures.
Caught between intending and doing: older people ideating on a self-chosen death
Authors: van Wijngaarden Els , Leget Carlo , Goossensen Anne
Published: January 2016

Objectives

The aim of this paper is to provide insight into what it means to live with the intention to end life at a self-chosen moment from an insider perspective.

Setting

Participants who lived independent or semidependent throughout the Netherlands.

Participants

25 Dutch older citizens (mean age of 82 years) participated. They were ideating on a self-chosen death because they considered their lives to be no longer worth living. Inclusion criteria were that they: (1) considered their lives to be ‘completed’; (2) suffered from the prospect of living on; (3) currently wished to die; (4) were 70 years of age or older; (5) were not terminally ill; (6) considered themselves to be mentally competent; (7) considered their death wish reasonable.

Design

In this qualitative study, in-depth interviews were carried out in the participants’ everyday home environment (median lasting 1.56 h). Verbatim transcripts were analysed based on the principles of phenomenological thematic analysis.

Results

The liminality or ‘in-betweenness’ of intending and actually performing self-directed death (or not) is characterised as a constant feeling of being torn explicated by the following pairs of themes: (1) detachment and attachment; (2) rational and non-rational considerations; (3) taking control and lingering uncertainty; (4) resisting interference and longing for support; (5) legitimacy and illegitimacy.

Conclusions

Our findings show that the in-between period emerges as a considerable, existential challenge with both rational and non-rational concerns and thoughts, rather than a calculative, coherent sum of rational considerations. Our study highlights the need to take due consideration of all ambiguities and ambivalences present after a putatively rational decision has been made in order to develop careful policy and support for this particular group of older people.
How does rhinovirus cause the common cold cough?
Authors: Atkinson Samantha K , Sadofsky Laura R , Morice Alyn H
Published: January 2016

Cough is a protective reflex to prevent aspiration and can be triggered by a multitude of stimuli. The commonest form of cough is caused by upper respiratory tract infection and has no benefit to the host. The virus hijacks this natural defence mechanism in order to propagate itself through the population. Despite the resolution of the majority of cold symptoms within 2 weeks, cough can persist for some time thereafter. Unfortunately, the mechanism of infectious cough brought on by pathogenic viruses, such as human rhinovirus, during colds, remains elusive despite the extensive work that has been undertaken. For socioeconomic reasons, it is imperative we identify the mechanism of cough. There are several theories which have been proposed as the causative mechanism of cough in rhinovirus infection, encompassing a range of different processes. Those of which hold most promise are physical disruption of the epithelial lining, excess mucus production and an inflammatory response to rhinovirus infection which may be excessive. And finally, neuronal modulation, the most convincing hypothesis, is thought to potentiate cough long after the original stimulus has been cleared. All these hypotheses will be briefly covered in the following sections.
Patient behaviour at the time of stroke onset: a cross-sectional survey of patient response to stroke symptoms
Authors: Mellon L , Doyle F , Williams D , Brewer L , Hall P , Hickey A
Published: January 2016

Background and purpose

Revascularisation treatment with thrombolysis must be initiated within 4.5 h following ischaemic stroke symptom onset. Despite its proven benefits, thrombolysis therapy is underused, with patient delay in presenting to hospital with symptoms identified as the leading barrier. This study aimed to examine help-seeking behaviour at stroke onset, in order to understand delays in accessing acute medical care for stroke symptoms.

Methods

149 consecutive patients hospitalised with ischaemic stroke were interviewed at 72 h poststroke with the Stroke Awareness Questionnaire and the Response to Symptoms Questionnaire.

Results

Sixty per cent of stroke cases presented to the ED within 3.5 h of stroke onset. Knowledge of stroke symptoms and risk factors was poor, with 40% unable to correctly define a stroke. Bystander recognition of symptoms (p=0.03) and bystander initiation of Emergency Medical Services was associated with ED presentation within 3.5 h (p=0.03).

Conclusions

This study provides insights into patient response when a stroke occurs, with the presence and action of others highlighted as critical in fast response to stroke symptoms. Knowledge of stroke warning signs and risk factors was low among stroke survivors. Findings highlight the complexity of changing help-seeking behaviour during stroke onset, and provide directions for public education efforts to reduce prehospital delay.
Prevalence and prognostic impact of kidney disease on heart failure patients
Authors: Löfman Ida , Szummer Karolina , Hagerman Inger , Dahlström Ulf , Lund Lars H , Jernberg Tomas
Published: January 2016

Objectives

The aim was to determine the prevalence of different degrees of kidney dysfunction and to examine their association with short-term and long-term outcomes in a large unselected contemporary heart failure population and some of its subgroups. We examined to what extent the different cardiac conditions and their severity contribute to the prognostic value of kidney dysfunction in heart failure.

Design

We studied 47 716 patients in the Swedish Heart Failure Registry. Patients were divided into five renal function strata based on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation. The adjusted association between kidney function and outcome was examined by Cox regression.

Results

51% of the patients had eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2and 11% had eGFR <30. There was increasing mortality with decreasing kidney function regardless of age, presence of diabetes, New York Heart Association NYHA class, duration of heart failure and haemoglobin levels. The risk HR (95% CI) persisted after adjusting for differences in baseline characteristics, severity of heart disease, and medical treatment: eGFR 60–89: 0.86 (0.79 to 0.95); eGFR 30–59: 1.13 (1.03 to 1.24); eGFR 15–29: 1.85 (1.67 to 2.07); and eGFR <15: 2.96 ([2.53 to –3.47)], compared with eGFR ≥90.

Conclusions

Kidney dysfunction is common and strongly associated with short-term and long-term outcomes in patients with heart failure. This strong association was evident in all age groups, regardless of NYHA class, duration of heart failure, haemoglobin level, and presence/absence of diabetes mellitus. After adjusting for differences in baseline data, aetiology and severity of heart disease and treatment, the strong association remained.
Doctors' enjoyment of their work and satisfaction with time available for leisure: UK time trend questionnaire-based study
Authors: Surman Geraldine , Lambert Trevor W , Goldacre Michael
Published: January 2016

Introduction

Doctors' job satisfaction is important to the health service to ensure commitment, effective training, service provision and retention. Job satisfaction matters to doctors for their personal happiness, fulfilment, service to patients and duty to employers. Monitoring job satisfaction trends informs workforce planning.

Materials and methods

We surveyed UK-trained doctors up to 5 years after graduation for six graduation year cohorts: 1996, 1999, 2002, 2005, 2008, 2012. Doctors scored their job enjoyment (Enjoyment) and satisfaction with time outside work (Leisure) on a scale from 1 (lowest enjoyment/satisfaction) to 10 (highest).

Results

Overall, 47% had a high level of Enjoyment (scores 8–10) 1 year after graduation and 56% after 5 years. For Leisure, the corresponding figures were 19% and 37% at 1 and 5 years, respectively. For Leisure at 1 year, high scores were given by about 10% in the 1990s, rising to about 25% in the mid-2000s. Low scores (1–3) for Enjoyment were given by 15% of qualifiers of 1996, falling to 5% by 2008; corresponding figures for Leisure were 42% and 19%. At 5 years, the corresponding figures were 6% and 4%, and 23% and 17%. Enjoyment and Leisure were scored higher by general practitioners than doctors in other specialties. Both measures varied little by sex, ethnicity or medical school attended.

Conclusions

Scores for Enjoyment were generally high; those for Leisure were lower. Policy initiatives should address why this aspect of satisfaction is low, particularly in the first year after graduation but also among hospital doctors 5 years after graduation.
Vitamin B12 status in older adults living in Ontario long-term care homes: prevalence and incidence of deficiency with supplementation as a protective factor
Authors: Pfisterer Kaylen J. , Sharratt Mike T. , Heckman George G. , Keller Heather H.
Published: January 2016

Vitamin B12 (B12) deficiency, although treatable, impacts up to 43% of community-living older adults; long-term care (LTC) residents may be at greater risk. Recommendations for screening require further evidence on prevalence and incidence in LTC. Small, ungeneralizable samples provide a limited perspective on these issues. The purposes of this study were to report prevalence of B12 deficiency at admission to LTC, incidence 1 year post-admission, and identify subgroups with differential risk. This multi-site (8), retrospective prevalence study used random proportionate sampling of resident charts (n = 412). Data at admission extracted included demographics, B12 status, B12 supplementation, medications, diagnoses, functional independence, cognitive performance, and nutrition. Prevalence at admission of B12 deficiency (<156 pmol/L) was 13.8%; 47.6% had normal B12 (>300 pmol/L). One year post-admission incidence was 4%. Better B12 status was significantly associated with supplementation use prior to LTC admission. Other characteristics were not associated with status. This work provides a better estimate of B12 deficiency prevalence than previously available for LTC, upon which to base protocols and policy. Prospective studies are needed to establish treatment efficacy and effect on health related outcomes.
Spatial patterns, trends, and the potential long-term impacts of tree harvesting on lake calcium levels in the Muskoka River Watershed, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Reid Carolyn R. , Watmough Shaun A.
Published: January 2016

The issue of calcium (Ca) decline in surface waters of eastern Canada is an emerging concern that may be made worse by timber harvesting. In the Muskoka River Watershed (MRW) in Ontario, the mean lake Ca concentration in 104 lakes decreased by 30% since the 1980s, with the rate of decrease slowing over time consistent with changes in lake sulfate (SO4) as the region recovers from acid deposition. Recent data suggested that smaller lakes, at higher elevation, in smaller catchments with higher runoff that are minimally impacted by the influence of roads and agriculture are associated with lower Ca concentrations and thus are the lakes most at risk of amplified Ca depletion. Using proposed annual allowable harvest cuts from 10-year forest management plans, 38% of 364 lakes assessed in the MRW will fall below a reported critical 1 mg·L–1 Ca threshold compared with just 8% in the absence of future harvesting. It is concluded that Ca decline poses a serious threat to aquatic ecosystems and should be taken into consideration in future forest management plans.
Electronic properties of porous graphene, α-graphyne, graphene-like, and graphyne-like BN sheets
Authors: Majidi Roya
Published: January 2016

We have used density functional theory to investigate the electronic properties of two-dimensional porous sheets. The porous C and BN sheets based on graphene and α-graphyne are studied. It is found that the porous graphene is an insulator while porous α-graphyne has semiconducting properties. By substitution of C atoms by B and N atoms, the band gap becomes larger. The porous graphene-like and porous graphyne-like BN sheets show insulating behaviors. The nonzero band gap of these porous C and BN sheets may provide an opportunity to use them in nanoelectronic devices.
Evolution of l-photon excited thermo vacuum state in a single-mode damping channel
Authors: He Rui , Fan Hong-Yi
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we investigate how a kind of non-Gaussian states (l-photon excited thermo vacuum state [Formula: see text]) evolves in a single-mode damping channel. We find that it evolves into a Laguerre-polynomial-weighted real–fictitious squeezed thermo vacuum state, which exhibits strong decoherence and its original nonclassicality fades. In particular, when l = 0, in this damping process the thermo squeezing effect decreases while the fictitious-mode vacuum becomes chaotic. In overcoming the difficulty of calculation, we employ the summation method within ordered product of operators, a new generating function formula about two-variable Hermite polynomials is derived.
Melting curves of Cu, Pt, Pd and Au under high pressures
Authors: Zhang Baoling , Wang Baowen , Liu Qingxin
Published: January 2016

Melting curves of Cu, Pt, Pd and Au were calculated via the molecular dynamics method in the temperature range of [Formula: see text]1000–5000 K. The simulation results were compared with the recent high pressure experimental data reported by Errandonea, and the obtained melting curves of Cu, Pt and Au were all in good agreement with his results. For Pd, there were some differences between the obtained melting curve and the experimental data and these differences increased with decreasing temperature to about 7 GPa at 2000 K. The effects of the interaction forces between metal atoms at high atomic densities on the pressure of the system were analyzed. It was found that the pressure in metals predominantly depends on the interaction forces between atoms at high atomic densities. In addition, expressions for melting pressure as a function of temperature have been obtained by fitting the simulation results.
Methionine sulfoxide reductase A affects β-amyloid solubility and mitochondrial function in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Moskovitz Jackob , Du Fang , Bowman Connor F. , Yan Shirley S.
Published: January 2016

Accumulation of oxidized proteins, and especially β-amyloid (Aβ), is thought to be one of the common causes of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The current studies determine the effect of an in vivo methionine sulfoxidation of Aβ through ablation of the methionine sulfoxide reductase A (MsrA) in a mouse model of AD, a mouse that overexpresses amyloid precursor protein (APP) and Aβ in neurons. Lack of MsrA fosters the formation of methionine sulfoxide in proteins, and thus its ablation in the AD-mouse model will increase the formation of methionine sulfoxide in Aβ. Indeed, the novel MsrA-deficient APP mice ( APP+/ MsrAKO) exhibited higher levels of soluble Aβ in brain compared with APP+ mice. Furthermore, mitochondrial respiration and the activity of cytochrome c oxidase were compromised in the APP+/ MsrAKO compared with control mice. These results suggest that lower MsrA activity modifies Aβ solubility properties and causes mitochondrial dysfunction, and augmenting its activity may be beneficial in delaying AD progression.
The Analysis of CO2Emissions and Reduction Potential in China’s Transport Sector
Authors: Li Wei , Li Hao , Zhang Huixia , Sun Shuang
Published: January 2016

China’s transport sector is responsible for approximately 10% of national CO2emissions. In the process of industrialization and urbanization of China, emissions from transport sector would continuously increase. In order to investigate the emissions and reduction potential and provide the policy guidance for policymakers in China’s transport sector, this study decomposed the CO2emissions using the Kaya identity, calculated the contribution based on the Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) method to explore the underlying determinants of emissions change, and then constructed different scenarios to predict the emissions and estimate the potential of emission reduction in the future. Results indicated that carbon emissions in China’s transport sector have increased from 123.14 Mt in 1995 to 670.76 Mt in 2012. Income effect is the dominant factor that results in the increase of emissions while energy intensity effect is the main driving force to lower carbon emissions. The transportation modal shifting, transportation intensity change, and population growth have the positive but relatively minor impact on emissions. The accumulated emission reduction is expected to be 1825.97 Mt, which is 3 times more than the emissions in 2010. Policy recommendations are thus put forward for future emission reduction.
Maximizing the Sustainability of Cement Utilization in Building Projects through the Use of Greener Materials
Authors: Bediako Mark , Adobor Charles Dela , Amankwah Eric Opoku , Nyako Kofi , Kankam Charles Kwame
Published: January 2016

Greener technologies and sustainable developments are currently among the main tools used by many industries in shaping the world for a better future. The construction industry that is known to have numerous negative impact on sustainability is now wide awake on sustainable measures which can aid in reducing its negative impact. In this work, green cement was produced from pyroprocessed clay (PC) at 800°C and mixed together with Portland cement. This paper presents both laboratory tests and some field applications of green cement application. Laboratory tests performed included setting times, compressive strength, and shrinkage. Field applications of the green cement are shown. Results from the work showed that well-proportioned greener cement gained strengths between 11% and 30% more than Portland cement at standard curing period of 3, 7, 14, and 28 days. However, in real statistical terms, there was no difference between Portland cement and green cement strength performance. Shrinkage from both total and autogenous tests also showed insignificant differences between the two cements. The study recommends the use of green cements with pozzolanic origin than only Portland cement as a way to maximize sustainability in building projects.
A New Result Concerning the Solvability of a Class of General Systems of Variational Equations with Nonmonotone Operators: Applications to Dirichlet and Neumann Nonlinear Problems
Authors: Toscano Luisa , Toscano Speranza
Published: January 2016

A new result of solvability for a wide class of systems of variational equations depending on parameters and governed by nonmonotone operators is found in a Banach real and reflexive space with applications to Dirichlet and Neumann problems related to nonlinear elliptic systems.
A Timely Intervention: Endoscopic Retrieval of a Swallowed Magnetized Activity Watch
Authors: Radowsky Jason S. , Lee Joseph S. , Schlussel Andrew T.
Published: January 2016

The accidental ingestion of a foreign object often presents a difficult scenario for the clinician. This includes not only the decision to retrieve the material but also the appropriate technique to use. We present the case of a young asymptomatic girl who swallowed a magnetic activity watch, which was then successfully retrieved with an endoscopic snare. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of salvaging an operational watch from the stomach using an endoscopic technique.
Effect of High Intensity Interval and Continuous Swimming Training on Body Mass Adiposity Level and Serum Parameters in High-Fat Diet Fed Rats
Authors: Rocha Guilherme L. da , Crisp Alex H. , Oliveira Maria R. M. de , Silva Carlos A. da , Silva Jadson O. , Duarte Ana C. G. O. , Sene-Fiorese Marcela , Verlengia Rozangela
Published: January 2016

This study aimed to investigate the effects of interval and continuous training on the body mass gain and adiposity levels of rats fed a high-fat diet. Forty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups, standard diet and high-fat diet, and received their respective diets for a period of four weeks without exercise stimuli. After this period, the animals were randomly divided into six groups (n=8): control standard diet (CS), control high-fat diet (CH), continuous training standard diet (CTS), continuous training high-fat diet (CTH), interval training standard diet (ITS), and interval training high-fat diet (ITH). The interval and continuous training consisted of a swimming exercise performed over eight weeks. CH rats had greater body mass gain, sum of adipose tissues mass, and lower serum high density lipoprotein values than CS. The trained groups showed lower values of feed intake, caloric intake, body mass gain, and adiposity levels compared with the CH group. No significant differences were observed between the trained groups (CTS versus ITS and CTH versus ITH) on body mass gains and adiposity levels. In conclusion, both training methodologies were shown to be effective in controlling body mass gain and adiposity levels in high-fat diet fed rats.
High Levels of 17β-Estradiol Are Associated with Increased Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 and Metalloproteinase-9 Activity in Tears of Postmenopausal Women with Dry Eye
Authors: Shen Guanglin , Ma Xiaoping
Published: January 2016

Purpose. To determine the serum levels of sex steroids and tear matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 2 and 9 concentrations in postmenopausal women with dry eye.Methods. Forty-four postmenopausal women with dry eye and 22 asymptomatic controls were enrolled. Blood was drawn and analyzed for serum levels of sex steroids and lipids. Then, the following tests were performed: tear collection, Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, fluorescein tear film break-up time (TBUT), corneal fluorescein staining, Schirmer test, and conjunctival impression cytology. The conjunctival mRNA expression and tear concentrations of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were measured.Results. Serum 17β-estradiol levels were significantly higher in the dry eye subjects than in the controls (P=0.03), whereas there were no significant differences in levels of testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), and progesterone. Tear MMP-2 and MMP-9 concentrations (P<0.001), as well as the MMP-9 mRNA expression in conjunctival samples (P=0.02), were significantly higher in dry eye subjects than in controls. Serum 17β-estradiol levels were positively correlated with tear MMP-2 and MMP-9 concentrations and negatively correlated with Schirmer test values.Conclusions. High levels of 17β-estradiol are associated with increased matrix metalloproteinase-2 and metalloproteinase-9 activity in tears of postmenopausal women with dry eye.
Polarimetric Scattering from Two-Dimensional Dielectric Rough Sea Surface with a Ship-Induced Kelvin Wake
Authors: Yang Pengju , Guo Lixin
Published: January 2016

Based on the polarimetric scattering model of second-order small-slope approximation (SSA-II) with tapered wave incidence for reducing the edge effect caused by limited surface size, monostatic and bistatic polarimetric scattering signatures of two-dimensional dielectric rough sea surface with a ship-induced Kelvin wake is investigated in detail by comparison with those of sea surface without ship wake. The emphasis of this paper is on an investigation of depolarized scattering and enhanced backscattering of sea surface with a ship wake that changes the sea surface geometric structure especially for low wind conditions. Numerical simulations show that in the plane of incidence rough sea surface scattering is dominated by copolarized scattering rather than cross-polarized scattering and that under low wind conditions a larger ship speed gives rise to stronger enhanced backscattering and enhanced depolarized scattering. For both monostatic and bistatic configuration, simulation results indicate that electromagnetic scattering signatures in the presence of a ship wake dramatically differ from those without ship wake, which may serve as a basis for the detection of ships in marine environment.
Use of a Remote Eye-Tracker for the Analysis of Gaze during Treadmill Walking and Visual Stimuli Exposition
Authors: Serchi V. , Peruzzi A. , Cereatti A. , Della Croce U.
Published: January 2016

The knowledge of the visual strategies adopted while walking in cognitively engaging environments is extremely valuable. Analyzing gaze when a treadmill and a virtual reality environment are used as motor rehabilitation tools is therefore critical. Being completely unobtrusive, remote eye-trackers are the most appropriate way to measure the point of gaze. Still, the point of gaze measurements are affected by experimental conditions such as head range of motion and visual stimuli. This study assesses the usability limits and measurement reliability of a remote eye-tracker during treadmill walking while visual stimuli are projected. During treadmill walking, the head remained within the remote eye-tracker workspace. Generally, the quality of the point of gaze measurements declined as the distance from the remote eye-tracker increased and data loss occurred for large gaze angles. The stimulus location (a dot-target) did not influence the point of gaze accuracy, precision, and trackability during both standing and walking. Similar results were obtained when the dot-target was replaced by a static or moving 2D target and “region of interest” analysis was applied. These findings foster the feasibility of the use of a remote eye-tracker for the analysis of gaze during treadmill walking in virtual reality environments.
Phenotypic and Functional Changes of Endothelial and Smooth Muscle Cells in Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Malashicheva Anna , Kostina Daria , Kostina Aleksandra , Irtyuga Olga , Voronkina Irina , Smagina Larisa , Ignatieva Elena , Gavriliuk Natalia , Uspensky Vladimir , Moiseeva Olga , Vaage Jarle , Kostareva Anna
Published: January 2016

Thoracic aortic aneurysm develops as a result of complex series of events that alter the cellular structure and the composition of the extracellular matrix of the aortic wall. The purpose of the present work was to study the cellular functions of endothelial and smooth muscle cells from the patients with aneurysms of the thoracic aorta. We studied endothelial and smooth muscle cells from aneurysms in patients with bicuspid aortic valve and with tricuspid aortic valve. The expression of key markers of endothelial (CD31, vWF, and VE-cadherin) and smooth muscle (SMA, SM22α, calponin, and vimentin) cells as well extracellular matrix and MMP activity was studied as well as and apoptosis and cell proliferation. Expression of functional markers of endothelial and smooth muscle cells was reduced in patient cells. Cellular proliferation, migration, and synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins are attenuated in the cells of the patients. We show for the first time that aortic endothelial cell phenotype is changed in the thoracic aortic aneurysms compared to normal aortic wall. In conclusion both endothelial and smooth muscle cells from aneurysms of the ascending aorta have downregulated specific cellular markers and altered functional properties, such as growth rate, apoptosis induction, and extracellular matrix synthesis.
Rare Intracardiac Tumor: Primary Cardiac Lymphoma Presenting as Atypical Angina
Authors: Aimanan Karthigesu , Kumar K. Saravana , Mohd Arif M. N. , Noor Zuraini Md , Ramdzan Md Jamil , Hamdan L.
Published: January 2016

Primary lymphomas of the heart are extremely rare, accounting for 2% of all primary cardiac tumors. Due to the rare presentation, there is no proper consensus available on treatment strategy. Preoperative confirmation of the pathology is fundamental in guiding an early treatment plan, which allows for improved prognosis. Unfortunately, in most cases, primary cardiac lymphoma is only identified on postoperative histopathological analyses, which affect the treatment plan and outcome. Here, we report a unique case of primary cardiac lymphoma presented with dyspnea and reduced effort tolerance. Young age, rapid onset of symptom, and absence of cardiac risk factors prompted us towards further imaging and emergency resection. The patient received a course of postoperative chemotherapy and was disease-free on six months of follow-up.
Stability and Bifurcation Analysis for a Class of Generalized Reaction-Diffusion Neural Networks with Time Delay
Authors: Lv Tianshi , Gan Qintao , Zhu Qikai
Published: January 2016

Considering the fact that results for static neural networks are much more scare than results for local field neural networks and our purpose letting the problem researched be more general in many aspects, in this paper, a generalized neural networks model which includes reaction-diffusion local field neural networks and reaction-diffusion static neural networks is built and the stability and bifurcation problems for it are investigated under Neumann boundary conditions. First, by discussing the corresponding characteristic equations, the local stability of the trivial uniform steady state is discussed and the existence of Hopf bifurcations is shown. By using the normal form theory and the center manifold reduction of partial function differential equations, explicit formulae which determine the direction and stability of bifurcating periodic solutions are acquired. Finally, numerical simulations show the results.
Highly Active and Stable Large Catalase Isolated from a Hydrocarbon DegradingAspergillus terreusMTCC 6324
Authors: Vatsyayan Preety , Goswami Pranab
Published: January 2016

A hydrocarbon degradingAspergillus terreusMTCC 6324 produces a high level of extremely active and stable cellular large catalase (CAT) during growth onn-hexadecane to combat the oxidative stress caused by the hydrocarbon degrading metabolic machinery inside the cell. A 160-fold purification with specific activity of around 66 × 105 U mg−1protein was achieved. The native protein molecular mass was 368 ± 5 kDa with subunit molecular mass of nearly 90 kDa, which indicates that the native CAT protein is a homotetramer. The isoelectric pH (pI) of the purified CAT was 4.2. BLAST aligned peptide mass fragments of CAT protein showed its highest similarity with the catalase B protein from other fungal sources. CAT was active in a broad range of pH 4 to 12 and temperature 25°C to 90°C. The catalytic efficiency(Kcat/Km)of 4.7 × 108 M−1 s−1within the studied substrate range and alkaline pH stability (half-life,t1/2at pH 12~15 months) of CAT are considerably higher than most of the extensively studied catalases from different sources. The storage stability (t1/2) of CAT at physiological pH 7.5 and 4°C was nearly 30 months. The haem was identified as haem b by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectroscopy (ESI-MS/MS).
A Three-Dimensional Finite Element Study on the Biomechanical Simulation of Various Structured Dental Implants and Their Surrounding Bone Tissues
Authors: Zhang Gong , Yuan Hai , Chen Xianshuai , Wang Weijun , Chen Jianyu , Liang Jimin , Zhang Peng
Published: January 2016

Background/Purpose. This three-dimensional finite element study observed the stress distribution characteristics of 12 types of dental implants and their surrounding bone tissues with various structured abutments, implant threads, and healing methods under different amounts of concentrated loading.Materials and Methods. A three-dimensional geometrical model of a dental implant and its surrounding bone tissue was created; the model simulated a screw applied with a preload of 200 N or a torque of 0.2 N·m and a prosthetic crown applied with a vertical or an inclined force of 100 N. The Von Mises stress was evaluated on the 12 types of dental implants and their surrounding bone tissues.Results. Under the same loading force, the stress influence on the implant threads was not significant; however, the stress influence on the cancellous bone was obvious. The stress applied to the abutment, cortical bone, and cancellous bone by the inclined force applied to the crown was larger than the stress applied by the vertical force to the crown, and the abutment stress of the nonsubmerged healing implant system was higher than that of the submerged healing implant system.Conclusion. A dental implant system characterised by a straight abutment, rectangle tooth, and nonsubmerged healing may provide minimum value for the implant-bone interface.
Modulation of Erythrocyte Plasma Membrane Redox System Activity by Curcumin
Authors: Singh Prabhakar , Kesharwani Rajesh Kumar , Misra Krishna , Rizvi Syed Ibrahim
Published: January 2016

Plasma membrane redox system (PMRS) is an electron transport chain system ubiquitously present throughout all cell types. It transfers electron from intracellular substrates to extracellular acceptors for regulation of redox status. Curcumin, isolated fromCurcuma longa,has modulatory effects on cellular physiology due to its membrane interaction ability and antioxidant potential. The present study investigates the effect of curcumin on PMRS activity of erythrocytes isolated from Wistar ratsin vitroandin vivoand validated through anin silicodocking simulation study using Molegro Virtual Docker (MVD). Effects of curcumin were also evaluated on level of glutathione (GSH) and the oxidant potential of plasma measured in terms of plasma ferric equivalent oxidative potentials (PFEOP). Results show that curcumin significantly (p<0.01) downregulated the PMRS activity in a dose-dependent manner. Molecular docking results suggest that curcumin interacts with amino acids at the active site cavity of cytochromeb5reductase, a key constituent of PMRS. Curcumin also increased the GSH level in erythrocytes and plasma while simultaneously decreasing the oxidant potential (PFEOP) of plasma. Altered PMRS activity and redox status are associated with the pathophysiology of several health complications including aging and diabetes; hence, the above finding may explain part of the role of curcumin in health beneficial effects.