bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of resident Canada goose movements to reduce the risk of goose‐aircraft collisions at suburban airports
Authors: Rutledge M. Elizabeth , Moorman Christopher E. , Washburn Brian E. , Deperno Christopher S.
Published: July 2015

Resident (non‐migratory) Canada goose (Branta canadensis) populations in suburban environments pose risks to human health and safety. Specifically, the relatively large size and gregarious behavior of geese combined with an overlap in aircraft flight space pose substantial risk of property damage and human fatalities from goose‐aircraft collisions. We estimated home range and core use areas of resident Canada geese and evaluated goose movements to better define the risk of goose‐aircraft collisions around Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, North Carolina, USA. We placed satellite transmitters on 16 of 763 neck‐ and leg‐banded geese to identify and track individuals over an 18‐month study period. The frequency of satellite‐tagged goose movements peaked daily within the first 2 hours after sunrise (28.1%) and again near sunset (27.2%). All in‐flight goose movements occurred ≤64 m above ground level. Geese flying at these altitudes posed a risk to aircraft in the take‐off and landing phases of flight. For all in‐flight movements, the number of movements per day was 0.13 during the molt (1 Jun–15 Jul), 0.42 during early post‐molt 2008 (16 Jul–31 Oct), 0.36 during late post‐molt (1 Nov–31 Jan), 0.58 during breeding/nesting (1 Feb–31 May), and 0.58 during the early post‐molt 2009. Satellite‐tagged geese traveled a mean distance ranging from 2.0 km (SE = 0.3) to 4.9 km (SE = 0.4) per day, depending on sex and season, which supports the need for intensive goose management within a minimum distance of 8 km from airports. Mean fixed 95% kernel home range and 50% core use area were 991.8 ha (SE = 241.1) and 120.4 ha (SE = 24.6), respectively. Additionally, we monitored site recolonization of nuisance geese after the controlled removal of 60 resident geese from 1 site, which eliminated 24.2% of those initially banded at the site in 2008, but other geese began to recolonize the site within 27 days. Rapid recolonization of the removal site suggests that lethal removal should be conducted at all molt locations within a minimum distance of 8 km of suburban airports and any additional removal or management resources should be applied to greater distances to prevent recolonization of these sites by geese in close proximity to the removal site. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
In vivo treatment with the NF‐κB inhibitor ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) improves tension development in the isolated mdx costal diaphragm
Authors: Carlson C. George , Potter Ross , Yu Vivien , Luo Kevin , Lavin Jesse , Nielsen Cory
Published: July 2015

Introduction: Previous experiments have indicated that in vivo administration of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) inhibits nuclear NF‐κB activation and has beneficial effects on the structure and function of dystrophic (mdx) muscle. We examined the effect of UDCA on tension development in dystrophic muscle. Methods: Isometric tension development was examined in costal diaphragms that were freshly isolated from vehicle and UDCA treated mdx mice. Percent recovery scores were obtained by directly comparing these measurements to those obtained from age‐matched nondystrophic mice. Results: Vehicle treated mdx mice exhibited significantly reduced optimal muscle lengths (lo) and specific twitch and tetanic tensions compared with age‐matched nondystrophic mice. UDCA treated preparations exhibited significantly improved tension development with a 33% recovery score. Conclusions: Because UDCA is used in treating certain clinical disorders, these results provide a rationale for human clinical trials using this and related drugs for treatment of Duchenne and related muscular dystrophies. Muscle Nerve 53: 431–437, 2016
Achieving robust design through statistical effect screening
Authors: Van Buren Kendra L. , Hemez François M.
Published: July 2015

This work proposes a method for statistical effect screening to identify design parameters of a numerical simulation that are influential to performance while simultaneously being robust to epistemic uncertainty introduced by calibration variables. Design parameters are controlled by the analyst, but the optimal design is often uncertain, while calibration variables are introduced by modeling choices. We argue that uncertainty introduced by design parameters and calibration variables should be treated differently, despite potential interactions between the two sets. Herein, a robustness criterion is embedded in our effect screening to guarantee the influence of design parameters, irrespective of values used for calibration variables. The Morris screening method is utilized to explore the design space, while robustness to uncertainty is quantified in the context of info‐gap decision theory. The proposed method is applied to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Multidisciplinary Uncertainty Quantification Challenge Problem, which is a black‐box code for aeronautic flight guidance that requires 35 input parameters. The application demonstrates that a large number of variables can be handled without formulating simplifying assumptions about the potential coupling between calibration variables and design parameters. Because of the computational efficiency of the Morris screening method, we conclude that the analysis can be applied to even larger‐dimensional problems. (Approved for unlimited, public release on October 9, 2013, LA‐UR‐13‐27839, Unclassified.) Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of styrene addition on thermal properties of epoxy resin doped with carbon nanotubes
Authors: Ciecierska Ewelina , Boczkowska Anna , Kubiś Michał , Chabera Paulina , Wiśniewski Tomasz
Published: July 2015

The paper concerns thermal properties of epoxy resin doped with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) used as a matrix for Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) composites. The aim of this work was to determine the influence of styrene addition on thermal properties of epoxy resin/CNT nanocomposites. CNTs, supplied by Nanocyl, were dispersed in epoxy matrix using three roll millings. In order to dilute epoxy/CNT mixture, to make it useful for hand lay‐up method of CFRP fabrication, three different weight amounts of styrene were tested. Scanning electron microscopy was used for both CNT dispersion control and epoxy/CNT laminates structure evaluation. Glass transition temperature and thermal stability were determined. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used for chemical structure verification. Thermal diffusivity of epoxy doped with carbon nanotubes, as well as CFRP doped with carbon nanotubes, was measured at four temperatures. Rheological tests were performed, and viscosity and storage and loss modulus were measured. From a modulus crossover point, gel time was determined. Scanning electron microscopy observations proved uniform dispersion of CNTs and reduction of voids and/or air bubbles amount as an effect of styrene addition. Decrease of thermal stability in the first stage of degradation is observed, and a decrease of glass transition temperature with an increase of styrene amount is noticed. For a small amount of styrene, thermal conductivity increases, while it starts to decrease when measured for a higher temperature. Viscosity decreases and gel time increases with the increase of styrene amount. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of lignocellulosic fibers on mechanical, thermomechanical and hydrophilic studies of epoxy modified with novel bioresin epoxy methyl ester derived from soybean oil
Authors: Sahoo Sushanta K. , Mohanty Smita , Nayak Sanjay K.
Published: July 2015

Epoxy resin is modified with epoxy methyl soyate synthesized from soybean oil to toughen the matrix and reduce the viscosity of resin system. Unidirectional sisal fibers in mat form were incorporated at different orientations of [0/0] and [0/90] as reinforcement in epoxy blend having more toughened nature. Highly improved strength and modulus of the [0/0] laminated composite revealed strong interfacial region of matrix for binding the fibers. Further, notched impact strength of the composites was found to be more than 700% higher compared with modified epoxy blend. Dynamic mechanical analysis depicted an improvement in the storage modulus and higher damping factor of the [0/0] sisal fiber laminated composite, which confirms better damping properties under vibrating conditions. The fiber‐matrix interfacial adhesion in the composite was confirmed by scanning electron microscopic analysis of the fractured specimens. Contact angle and atomic force microscopic studies were carried out to reveal the hydrophilic nature. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cyclopentyl methyl ether: A new green co‐solvent for supplemental activator and reducing agent atom transfer radical polymerization
Authors: Maximiano Pedro , Mendes Joana P. , Mendonça Patrícia V. , Abreu Carlos M. R. , Guliashvili Tamaz , Serra Arménio C. , Coelho Jorge F. J.
Published: July 2015

A new green solvent, cyclopentyl methyl ether (CPME), is used for the first time in solvent mixtures for the successful supplemental activator and reducing agent atom transfer radical polymerization (SARA ATRP) of both activated and non‐activated monomers. The SARA ATRP of methyl acrylate (MA), glycidyl methacrylate (GMA), styrene (Sty), and vinyl chloride (VC) in CPME‐based mixtures is studied and presents similar features to those reported in the literature using other SARA ATRP systems. Moreover, CPME‐based mixtures are suitable solvents for the controlled SARA ATRP of MA using different SARA agents, such as Fe(0), Cu(0), or Na2S2O4. The chemical structure and the retention of the chain‐end functionality of the polymers are confirmed by 1H NMR and MALDI‐TOF analyses and the preparation of a well‐defined PMA‐b‐PVC‐b‐PMA triblock copolymer. The method reported here presents an additional improvement in the search for new ecofriendly ATRP systems. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 2722–2729
Optimization of ADC Channels of A Smart Energy Meter Including Random Noise Effects
Authors: Adamo Francesco , Berni Rossella , Nisio Attilio Di , Scarano Valeria L. , Spadavecchia Maurizio
Published: July 2015

This paper proposes a multiresponse process optimization through mixed response surface models. The robust design approach is used by involving noise effects in the optimization step. In order to illustrate our proposal, a prototype of an energy meter, based on an open source concept, is studied. The proposed device architecture assures easy development of new applications for the imminent migration to smart grid infrastructures and simple adjustments to comply with possible changes in the international power quality standards. The measurement data of the acquisition channels are collected from signals generated using a high‐accuracy waveform generation module. Satisfactory results are obtained, and the multiresponse process optimization provides useful information about the smart energy meter firmware in relation to the suitable acquisition strategy in the signal frequency range of interest. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Machine learning for quantum mechanics in a nutshell
Authors: Rupp Matthias
Published: July 2015

Models that combine quantum mechanics (QM) with machine learning (ML) promise to deliver the accuracy of QM at the speed of ML. This hands‐on tutorial introduces the reader to QM/ML models based on kernel learning, an elegant, systematically nonlinear form of ML. Pseudocode and a reference implementation are provided, enabling the reader to reproduce results from recent publications where atomization energies of small organic molecules are predicted using kernel ridge regression. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neues Schiffshebewerk in Niederfinow
Authors: Huth Peter , Lindlar Hans‐Gerd
Published: July 2015

In Niederfinow wird neben dem bestehenden ein zweites Schiffshebewerk errichtet. Nach umfangreichen Voruntersuchungen entschied sich die Wasser‐ und Schifffahrtsverwaltung für ein Senkrechthebewerk mit Gegengewichtsausgleich. Ein Tragwerk, bestehend aus Stahlbetontürmen, ‐stützen und Seilrollenträgern, die in einer gemeinsamen Trogwanne gegründet werden, leitet die Lasten des wassergefüllten Troges (ca. 9 800 t) über Seilrollenträger in den Untergrund ab. Der an Seilen durch Gegengewichte im Gleichgewicht gehaltene Trog erhält eine nutzbare Länge von 115 m, eine nutzbare Breite von 12,5 m und lässt eine Wassertiefe von 4,0 m zu. Die Vertikalbewegungen des Troges erfolgen mittels Zahnstangenantrieb. Ein Sicherungssystem aus Mutterbackensäulen und Drehriegeln gewährleistet ein sicheres Absetzen des Troges bei Reparatur und in Havariefällen.

Im Mai 2008 wurde die Arge Neues Schiffshebewerk Niederfinow bestehend aus den heutigen Firmen Bilfinger Construction GmbH, DSD Brückenbau GmbH, Johann Bunte Bauunternehmung GmbH

New ship lift at Niederfinow, Germany. A second ship lift is to be constructed in Niederfinow adjacent to the existing lift. After extensive preliminary studies, the Federal Waterways Administration decided on a vertical lift with balancing counterweights. A load‐bearing structure consisting of reinforced concrete towers, columns and cable pulley girders, all with foundations in a common trough well, transfers the loads from the water‐filled trough (9 000 t) into the bedrock via cable pulley girders. The trough, which is suspended on cables and balanced with counterweights, has a usable length of 115 m, a usable width of 12.5 m and allows a water depth of 4.0 m. Vertical movements of the trough take place by means of rack and pinion drives. A safety system consisting of internally threaded columns and rotary locking bars ensures that the trough stops safely in an emergency.

In May 2008 the contract to construct the new ship lift was awarded to the consortium Neues Schiffshebewerk Niederfinow, consisting of Bilfinger Construction GmbH, DSD Brückenbau GmbH, Johann Bunte Bauunternehmung GmbH
Schiffshebewerk Niederfinow – Bemessung, Herstellung und Montage des Troges
Authors: Gebhardt Heiner , Schülke Jens , Augustin Eric
Published: July 2015

Die Stahlkonstruktion des Troges für das neue Schiffshebewerk in Niederfinow wurde in einer komplexen Bemessung für die Betriebszustände gewichtsmäßig optimiert. Gleichzeitig mussten verschiedene außergewöhnliche Belastungszustände bei der Dimensionierung berücksichtigt werden. Die hierfür erforderlichen Berechnungen wurden an einem Finite‐Elemente‐Modell des Troges mit unterschiedlichen Lagerungsbedingungen durchgeführt. Damit die Montage der Gegengewichte nicht für die Bemessung des Troges maßgebend wird, musste ein detailliertes Ballastierungskonzept ausgearbeitet werden.

Bei der Fertigung und Montage des Troges waren unter anderem die geringen zulässigen Toleranzen an den Trogenden im Bereich der Drehsegmenttore zu berücksichtigen. Durch fertigungstechnische Maßnahmen und eine anschließende mechanische Bearbeitung wurden diese Vorgaben umgesetzt.

Ship lift Niederfinow – Analysis, manufacture and assembly of the trough. The steel structure of the trough for the new ship lift in Niederfinow was optimized regarding its weight by using a complex analysis of the serviceability states. At the same time several special load cases had to be taken into account in the analysis. The analysis was done on a finite element model of the trough with different bearing conditions. In order to avoid that the assembling of the counterweights will be the decisive load case a comprehensive ballasting system had to be developed.

During manufacture and assembly of the trough, the low allowable tolerances at the trough ends for the installation of the rotating segment gates were taken into consideration. Manufacturing provisions and a subsequent mobile machining of the relevant plates ensured these requirements.
Korrosionsschutz beim neuen Schiffshebewerk Niederfinow
Authors: Schütt Sven‐Olaf , Baumann Manfred
Published: July 2015

Die Ausführung und Qualitätssicherung des Korrosionsschutzes der Stahlbauten des Schiffshebewerkes Niederfinow erfolgt durch die strikte Umsetzung einer für alle Beteiligten geltenden Korrosionsschutzanweisung. Hier werden u. a. die vielfältigen architektonischen farblichen Anforderungen sowie die Beschichtung in mehreren Fertigungswerken und auf der Baustelle berücksichtigt. Etwa 70 % der Bauteile wurden vorkonserviert angeliefert. Nachträgliche Schweißarbeiten auf der Baustelle und deren negative Auswirkungen auf bereits beschichteten Flächen erforderten umfangreiche Qualitätsmaßnahmen. Es wurden überwiegend bewährte Korrosionsschutzsysteme eingesetzt. Für Beschichtungen im Einzelfall, Pulverbeschichtungen und auch beim Kathodischen Korrosionsschutz (KKS) für die Anoden wurden im Bereich des Verkehrswesens neue Wege beschritten.

Corrosion protection at the new ship lift Niederfinow, Germany. Conducting and quality management of the anticorrosive coating of the steel constructions belonging to the ship lift in Niederfinow is ensured by a strict implementation of an anticorrosive coating instruction that is valid for all parties involved. The instruction considers the variety of architectural requirements concerning color as well as the coating in several assembly plants and at the construction site. Approximately 70 % of the devices have been delivered pre‐preserved. Subsequent conducted welding jobs at the construction site and their negative effects on the already coated surfaces demand an enormous additional quality management. Predominantly, established anticorrosive coating systems have been used. In the field of transportation, new paths haven been explored for coatings that needed individual approval, for powder coatings as well as for cathodic corrosion protection for the anodes.
Schiffshebewerk Niederfinow als Modell im Deutschen Technikmuseum Berlin
Authors: Schuster Claudia
Published: July 2015

Das Modell des Schiffshebewerks Niederfinow im Maßstab 1 : 50 bereichert seit dem 8. Dezember 2014 die Dauerausstellung des Deutschen Technikmuseums (DTM). In diesem Funktionsmodell stecken rund 140 000 Miniaturniete, über 36 000 größtenteils ehrenamtliche Arbeitsstunden und unzählige originalgetreue Details. Das Modellbau‐Kunstwerk besteht fast ausschließlich aus Messing, zum Teil auch Stahl, Aluminium, Kunststoff, Holz, Blei und ist das Ergebnis aus Akribie, Leidenschaft, Geduld, Einfallsreichtum sowie handwerklichem Können während einer Bauzeit von 20 Jahren. Das Modell stellt das Hebewerk bei Niederfinow dar, etwa 70 km nordöstlich von Berlin gelegen, das Schiffe wie in einem Fahrstuhl 36 m von der unteren Oderhaltung auf die obere Kanalhaltung hebt und in der anderen Richtung senkt. Es ist heute das älteste noch im Dienst befindliche Hebewerk Deutschlands. Während und vor der Bauzeit dieses 1934 eröffneten Bauwerks entstanden verschiedene Modelle, die nachfolgend ebenfalls kurz beschrieben werden.

Niederfinow Boat Lift Model in the Deutsches Technikmuseum Berlin. The 1 : 50 scale model of the Niederfinow boat lift has enriched the permanent exhibition at the Deutsches Technikmuseum (DTM) since 8 December 2014. Around 140 000 miniature rivets, over 36 000 mostly unsalaried hours of work and countless authentic details went into the construction of this functional model. This masterpiece of model‐building consists almost entirely of brass, but also in part of steel, aluminium, plastic, wood, and lead; above all, it is the product of 20 years of tinkering, exactitude, passion, patience, ingenuity and craftsmanship. The model shows the boat lift located near Niederfinow, around 70 km north‐east of Berlin. It raises ships 36 m from the lower Oder reach to the upper canal reach and also lowers them in the other direction. It is the oldest boat lift in Germany which is still in commission today. Various models were commissioned during and prior to the building phase of this construction, which began operation in 1934. These models as well are described in brief below.
Berechnung der Rammschädigung an Flanschen von Monopile‐Gründungen
Authors: Janele Tim Oliver , Landskröner Susanne , Klose Marcus
Published: July 2015

Ringflanschverbindungen an Monopile‐Tragstrukturen stehen aktuell im Fokus kosteneffizienter Design‐Konzepte für Offshore‐Windenergieanlagen. Die geschraubte Verbindung zwischen Monopile und Transition Piece (Übergangsstück zum Turm der Windenergieanlage) erfordert jedoch, dass das Rammen mit einem hydraulischen Hammer direkt auf dem Monopile‐seitigen Flansch erfolgt. Der Flansch wird extremen Belastungen während des hochdynamischen Rammvorgangs ausgesetzt, wodurch hohe Vorschädigungen am Flansch sowie an der Schweißnaht zum Monopile entstehen können. Bei der Berechnung der Rammschädigungen ist, zusätzlich zum eigentlichen Hammerschlag, eine durch den Lasteintrag angeregte Schwingung am Flansch zu berücksichtigen. In diesem Artikel werden die wesentlichen Parameter einer Rammanalyse vorgestellt. Wechselwirkungen zwischen Hammer, Monopile und Boden werden mit einer eindimensionalen Wellengleichungsmethode untersucht. Das hierbei ermittelte Lastspektrum wird zur Validierung eines detaillierten Finite‐Elemente(FE)‐Modells genutzt, welches den ursprünglichen Schlag zwischen Hammer und Flansch sowie die dynamische Antwort der Pfahl‐Boden‐Interaktion im Zeitbereich simuliert. Basierend auf den Berechnungsergebnissen werden Empfehlungen für Designoptimierungen sowie Verfahren zur Bewertung der Rammschädigung vorgestellt.

Determination of pile‐driving fatigue at flanges of monopile foundations. Cost‐efficient design concepts of monopile foundations for offshore wind turbines have recently focused on bolted ring flange connections. The bolted connection between the monopile and transition piece implies that the pile‐driving operation by means of a hydraulic hammer is directly performed on the flange. The highly dynamic pile‐driving loads may lead to substantial pre‐damages at the flange structure and weld. For the determination of pile‐driving fatigue, the initial hammer strike as well as an induced oscillation has to be considered. In this paper, the main parameters defining a pile‐driving analysis are presented. Basic pile‐driving effects are investigated by application of a one‐dimensional wave equation analysis. The results are used to validate a detailed finite element (FE) model which simulates the initial hammer strike as well as the dynamic response of the pile‐soil interaction. Based on the calculation results, recommendations for design optimizations and evaluation methods of pile‐driving fatigue are provided.
Controlling Argan Seed Quality by NIR
Authors: Guinda Ángeles , Rada Mirela , Benaissa Mohamed , Ourrach Ibtissam , Cayuela José Antonio
Published: July 2015

The suitability of using visible/near infrared spectroscopy (Vis/NIR), as a rapid and non‐destructive technique for monitoring the quality of argan seeds (Argania spinosa Skeels) was studied. The analyzed parameters were the fatty acid composition of argan seed oil, seed moisture content, seed oil content and oil stability index (OSI). The ratio between major unsaturated and saturated fatty acids (U/S) during the oxidation assay at constant temperature was studied. Values from infrared drying were used as a laboratory reference for the moisture. Argan seed oil content was determined by Soxhlet extraction. A fatty acid analysis was carried out by gas chromatography and the OSI was determined by the Rancimat test. Predictive models of argan seed moisture, ratio U/S and OSI showed good accuracy. Therefore, Vis/NIR measurements can be used for controlling several argan seed quality parameters. This procedure might be of interest to the argan oil industry, which is currently in the process of modernization and expansion.
Culture Change and Globalization: The Unresolved Debate between Cross-National and Cross-Cultural Classifications
Authors: Ladhari Riadh , Souiden Nizar , Choi Yong-Hoon
Published: July 2015

This study intends to examine the assumptions of culture homogeneity within nations and its stability in the current global context. First, by using a sample of 720 respondents (207 in Canada, 263 in Japan, and 250 in Morocco), it empirically examines the cultural values of three countries at three different continents (Canada in North America, Japan in East Asia, and Morocco in North Africa) and compares the findings to Hofstede's framework. Second, it tests for the existence of cultural segments transcending the national boundaries. Cultural values are measured using the horizontal–vertical individualism and collectivism scale. The findings show that: (i) horizontal collectivism dominates the cultural environment of these three countries; (ii) horizontal collectivism and horizontal individualism coexist in Canada; and (iii) vertical individualism characterizes Morocco and Japan more than Canada. In addition, the study reports three segments that transcend national borders, each of them sharing the same cultural values. When compared with each other, the three clusters completely differ on horizontal collectivism, vertical collectivism, and horizontal individualism. The research concludes that some changes are occurring in cultural values/patterns in the three studied countries.
Balloon‐expanding stent and delivery system for transcatheter aortic valve implantation: An animal study
Authors: Chen Xiang , Wang Fei‐Yu , Chu Guo‐Jun , Zhu Yu‐Feng , Tan Hong‐Wen , Zhao Xian‐Xian , Qin Yong‐Wen , Ge Jun‐Bo
Published: July 2015

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility and satefy of transcatheter aortic valve implantation in animals by using a new balloon‐expanding valved stent.

Methods

The balloon‐expandable stent is made from cobalt‐based alloy material and designed with a tubular, slotted structure. Fresh bovine pericardium was treated, sutured and fixed on the balloon‐expandable stent. Ten healthy sheep (five males and five females), weighing an average of (25.16 ± 1.83) kg, were selected to undergo transcatheter implantation of the valve stents. The function of the valve stent was evaluated by angiography, echocardiography, and histology six months after the procedure.

Results

Of the ten experimental sheep, two sheep died during the operation because the higher position of the artificial valve affected the opening of the coronary artery. We successfully implanted the aortic valve stent in other eight sheep; however, one sheep died of heart failure two weeks after the operation due to the lower position of the valve stent. The valve stents were implanted in the desired position in seven sheep. Ascending aortic angiographic and autoptic findings immediately after the operation confirmed the satisfactory location and function of the valved stent. Echocardiography, angiography, and histology at six postoperative months confirmed the satisfactory location and function of the valve stent.

Conclusion

We successfully implanted our new valve stent as a replacement of native aortic valve via the transcatheter route with satisfactory outcome.
Scientific and ethical features of English‐language online tests for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Robillard Julie M. , Illes Judy , Arcand Marcel , Beattie B. Lynn , Hayden Sherri , Lawrence Peter , McGrenere Joanna , Reiner Peter B. , Wittenberg Dana , Jacova Claudia
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Freely accessible online tests for the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) are widely available. The objective of this study was to evaluate these tests along three dimensions as follows: (1) scientific validity; (2) human‐computer interaction (HCI) features; and (3) ethics features.

Methods

A sample of 16 online tests was identified through a keyword search. A rating grid for the tests was developed, and all tests were evaluated by two expert panels.

Results

Expert analysis revealed that (1) the validity of freely accessible online tests for AD is insufficient to provide useful diagnostic information; (2) HCI features of the tests are adequate for target users, and (3) the tests do not adhere to accepted ethical norms for medical interventions.

Discussion

The most urgent concerns raised center on the ethics of collecting and evaluating responses from users. Physicians and other professionals will benefit from a heightened awareness of these tools and their limitations today.
The CAIDE Dementia Risk Score App: The development of an evidence‐based mobile application to predict the risk of dementia
Authors: Sindi Shireen , Calov Elisabeth , Fokkens Jasmine , Ngandu Tiia , Soininen Hilkka , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Kivipelto Miia
Published: July 2015

Background

The CAIDE (Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging, and Incidence of Dementia) Dementia Risk Score is a validated tool to predict late‐life dementia risk (20 years later), based on midlife vascular risk factors. The goal was to render this prediction tool widely accessible.

Methods

The CAIDE Risk Score (mobile application) App was developed based on the CAIDE Dementia Risk Score, involving information on age, educational level, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, and physical inactivity.

Results

The CAIDE Risk Score App is an evidence‐based practical tool, which allows users to detect their individual risk, provides guidance for risk modification, and suggests consulting a health care practitioner if needed. Moreover, it allows practitioners to discuss preventive measures and monitor risk reduction.

Conclusions

The CAIDE Risk Score App is the first to predict the risk for dementia through an important evidence‐based tool. The App can encourage users to actively decrease their modifiable risk factors and postpone cognitive impairment and dementia.
Double stranded promoter region of BRAF undergoes to structural rearrangement in nearly physiological conditions
Authors: Greco Maria Laura , Folini Marco , Sissi Claudia
Published: July 2015

The folding of oncogene promoters into non‐canonical DNA secondary structures is considered a strategy to control gene expression. Herein, we focused on a 30 bases sequence located upstream of the transcription start site of BRAF (Braf‐176) that contains 80% of guanines. We analyzed the structural behavior of the G‐ and C‐rich strands. By the use of spectroscopic and electrophoretic techniques we confirmed that they actually fold into a predominant antiparallel G‐quadruplex and into an i‐motif, respectively, and that they can coexist at nearly physiological conditions. Finally, the influence of several factors (KCl, pH, PEG200) on the conversion of the double stranded form of the oncogene promoter into the two above mentioned non‐canonical structures has been explored.
Review and Hypothesis. New insights into the reaction mechanism of transhydrogenase: Swivelling the dIII component may gate the proton channel
Authors: Jackson J. Baz , Leung Josephine H. , Stout Charles D. , Schurig-Briccio Lici A. , Gennis Robert B.
Published: July 2015

The membrane protein transhydrogenase in animal mitochondria and bacteria couples reduction of NADP+ by NADH to proton translocation. Recent X‐ray data on Thermus thermophilus transhydrogenase indicate a significant difference in the orientations of the two dIII components of the enzyme dimer (Leung et al., 2015). The character of the orientation change, and a review of information on the kinetics and thermodynamics of transhydrogenase, indicate that dIII swivelling might assist in the control of proton gating by the redox state of bound NADP+/NADPH during enzyme turnover.
Cellular stress induces cap‐independent alpha‐enolase/MBP‐1 translation
Authors: Maranto Cristina , Perconti Giovanni , Contino Flavia , Rubino Patrizia , Feo Salvatore , Giallongo Agata
Published: July 2015

Myc promoter‐binding protein‐1 (MBP‐1) is a shorter protein variant of the glycolytic enzyme alpha‐enolase. Although several lines of evidence indicate that MBP‐1 acts as a tumor suppressor, the cellular mechanisms and signaling pathways underlying MBP‐1 expression still remain largely elusive. To dissect these pathways, we used the SkBr3 breast cancer cell line and non‐tumorigenic HEK293T cells ectopically overexpressing alpha‐enolase/MBP‐1. Here, we demonstrate that induced cell stresses promote MBP‐1 expression through the AKT/PERK/eIF2α signaling axis. Our results contribute to shedding light on the molecular mechanisms underlying MBP‐1 expression in non‐tumorigenic and cancer cells.
MicroRNA‐410 promotes cell proliferation by targeting BRD7 in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Li Dengrui , Yang YongHui , Zhu GuiYun , Liu XinYan , Zhao Min , Li XiaoXia , Yang QinOu
Published: July 2015

miR‐410 acts as an oncogene or tumor suppressor gene in some malignancies. However, its role in NSCLC is still unknown. In this study, we showed that the expression of miR‐410 was up‐regulated in both human NSCLC tissues and cells. Overexpression of miR‐410 promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of NSCLC. In addition, bromodomain‐containing protein 7 (BRD7) was a direct target of miR‐410. MiR‐410‐mediated downregulation of BRD7 led to increase Akt phosphorylation. Inhibition of Akt phosphorylation can rescue the effect of miR‐410 on NSCLC cell. The expression of BRD7 was downregulated in NSCLC and was inversely expressed with miR‐410 in NSCLC. Our data provided new knowledge regarding the role of miR‐410 in the lung cancer progression.
miR‐216a may inhibit pancreatic tumor growth by targeting JAK2
Authors: Hou Bao-hua , Jian Zhi-xiang , Cui Peng , Li Shao-jie , Tian Rui-qing , Ou Jin-rui
Published: July 2015

This study was aimed to investigate miR‐216a expression in pancreatic cancer and determine its effects on proliferation. miR‐216a was found downregulated in pancreatic cancer tissues as compared to benign pancreatic lesions. JAK2 was identified as a miR‐216a gene target. Further, in vivo treatment of PANC‐1 tumors with miR‐216a reduced JAK2 protein levels in the tumor and reduced tumor volume. In conclusion, miR‐216a may function as a tumor suppressor regulating pancreatic cancer cells by targeting the JAK/STAT pathway. Further studies with a larger number of patient samples are necessary to fully explore the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of miR‐216a for pancreatic cancer.
Abnormal transsulfuration metabolism and reduced antioxidant capacity in Chinese children with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Han Yu , Xi Qian‐qian , Dai Wei , Yang Shu‐han , Gao Lei , Su Yuan‐yuan , Zhang Xin
Published: July 2015

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder that presents a spectrum of qualitative impairments in social interaction, communication, as well as restricted and stereotyped behavioral patterns, interests, and activities. Several studies have suggested that the etiology of ASD can be partly explained by oxidative stress. However, the implications of abnormal transsulfuration metabolism and oxidative stress, and their relation with ASD are still unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate several transsulfuration pathway metabolites in Chinese participants diagnosed with ASD, to better understand their role in the etiology of this disorder. Fifty children (39 male, 11 female) diagnosed with ASD and 50 age‐ and gender‐matched non‐ASD children (i.e., control group) were included in this study. This prospective blinded study was undertaken to assess transsulfuration and oxidative metabolites, including levels of homocysteine (Hcy), cysteine (Cys), total glutathione (tGSH), reduced glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG), and glutathione ratio (GSH/GSSG). The clinical severity of ASD was evaluated with the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), and the autistic children's present behavior was measured by the Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC). The results indicated that Hcy and GSSG levels were significantly higher in children diagnosed with ASD, Cys, tGSH and GSH levels as well as the GSH/GSSG ratio showed remarkably lower values in ASD children compared to control subjects. Hcy levels correlated significantly with increasing CARS scores and GSSG levels in children with ASD. Our results suggest that an abnormal transsulfuration metabolism and reduced antioxidant capacity (i.e., hyperhomocysteinemia and increased oxidative stress), and Hcy level appears to have a potentially negative impact on clinical severity of autistic disorder.
How Managers’ Shared Mental Models of Business–Customer Interactions Create Different Sensemaking of Social Media
Authors: Rydén Pernille , Ringberg Torsten , Wilke Ricky
Published: July 2015

Building on empirical research, we identify four mental models of business–customer interactions and show how each uniquely affects how managers conceptualize and use social media. The four models are “business-to-customers,” “business-from-customers,” “business-with-customers,” and “business-for-customers.” The mental model approach helps explain why managers’ use of social media does not necessarily lead to radical changes in their interaction with customers, despite the opportunities facilitated by these media. We provide a conceptual framework that enables managers to introspectively investigate their own mental models and thereby revise their sensemaking and use of social media.
Programming of adaptive repair process chains using repair features and function blocks
Authors: Spöcker Gunter , Schreiner Thorsten , Huwer Tobias , Arntz Kristian
Published: July 2015

The current trends of product customization and repair of high value parts with individual defects demand automation and a high degree of flexibility of the involved manufacturing process chains. To determine the corresponding requirements this paper gives an overview of manufacturing process chains by distinguishing between horizontal and vertical process chains. The established way of modeling and programming processes with CAx systems and existing approaches is shown. Furthermore, the different types of possible adaptions of a manufacturing process chain are shown and considered as a cascaded control loop. Following this it is discussed which key requirements of repair process chains are unresolved by existing approaches. To overcome the deficits this paper introduces repair features which comprise the idea of geometric features and defines analytical auxiliary geometries based on the measurement input data. This meets challenges normally caused by working directly on reconstructed geometries in the form of triangulated surfaces which are prone to artifacts. Embedded into function blocks, this allows the use of traditional approaches for manufacturing process chains to be applied to adaptive repair process chains.

Highlights Definition of adaptive repair process chains as cascaded control loops. Introduction of repair features as a bridge between measurement input and analytical CAD data for manufacturing. Dynamic determination and adjustment of repair features and CAx repair process chain execution based on function blocks. Use case study of repairing worn-out turbine blades with repair features and function blocks.
Assessment of subjective well-being and quality of life in patients with intestinal stoma
Authors: Salomé Geraldo Magela , de Almeida Sergio Aguinaldo , Mendes Bruno , de Carvalho Maiume Roana Ferreira , Massahud Junior Marcelo Renato
Published: July 2015

Objective To investigate the subjective well-being and quality of life in patients with intestinal stoma.

Method This study was conducted at Ostomized People's Pole of Pouso Alegre. Data were collected in the period between December 2012 and May 2013, after approval by the Ethics Committee of the Universidade do Vale do Sapucaí under opinion No. 23,277. The participants were selected by a convenience non-probability sampling. The following instruments were used: a questionnaire on demographics and stoma; a Subjective Well-being Scale; and a Quality Outcome Scale.

Results Regarding the Flanagan Quality of Life Scale, 16–22 points were obtained, indicating that these patients suffered changes in their quality of life. Regarding the scale of subjective well-being in three domains: positive affect – 43 (61.40%) individuals; negative affect – 31 (44.30%) individuals; and life satisfaction – 54 (77.10%), all subjects obtained a score of 3, characterizing a negative change in these domains. The mean Flanagan Quality of Life Scale score was 26.16, and the means for the domains included in the Subjective Well-being Scale were: positive affect: 2.51; negative affect: 2.23 and life satisfaction: 2.77, indicating that the intestinal stoma users who participated in the study had negative feelings related to their own self-esteem and to the loss of quality of life.

Conclusion Patients with intestinal stoma who participated in this study had a change in their quality of life and in subjective well-being.
Transanal Endoscopic Proctectomy: a new approach to the total excision of the mesorectum
Authors: Mendes Carlos Ramon Silveira , de Miranda Ferreira Luciano Santana , Sapucaia Ricardo Aguiar , Lima Meyline Andrade , Cobas Eduardo Costa , Araujo Sergio Eduardo Alonso
Published: July 2015

Introduction Colorectal cancer is a serious public health problem. In 1982, Heald managed to reduce mortality by standardizing the total excision of mesorectum. The use of transanal endoscopic microsurgery has emerged to allow resection of rectal tumors as a minimally invasive method. With the association of Transanal Endoscopic Operation with total excision of mesorectum, it was possible to develop a new approach for total excision of mesorectum.

Surgical technique The procedure is started by the perineal time with Transanal Endoscopic Operation device; introduction of Transanal Endoscopic Operation system follows, with exposure of the lesion with a circumferential incision at a distance between 2 and 4 cm from distal tumor margin after making a purse string suture to close the rectal stump. Then, dissection is carried out by the posterior portion until reaching the presacral avascular fascia, completing the mesorectal circumferential dissection until the peritoneal reflection. After this step, a laparoscopic procedure is performed with the use of three trocars, with mobilization of splenic flexure and ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery, as well as confection of a protective ileostomy. Then, transanal removal of the surgical specimen is performed, and the procedure goes on with a coloanal anastomosis.
Treatment of Patellar Tendinopathy Refractory to Surgical Management Using Percutaneous Ultrasonic Tenotomy and Platelet‐Rich Plasma Injection: A Case Presentation
Authors: Nanos Katherine N. , Malanga Gerard A.
Published: July 2015

Chronic proximal patellar tendinopathy is a common condition in sports medicine that may be refractory to nonoperative treatments, including activity modification, medications, and comprehensive rehabilitation. Percutaneous ultrasonic tenotomy is a recently developed technique designed to cut and debride tendinopathic tissue, thus promoting pain relief and functional recovery. We present a case of a collegiate athlete with chronic proximal patellar tendinopathy who was effectively treated with percutaneous ultrasonic tenotomy after not responding to extensive nonoperative treatment, surgical debridement, and platelet‐rich plasma injections. Percutaneous ultrasonic tenotomy can be considered as a treatment option in patients presenting with refractory proximal patellar tendinopathy, including those who do not respond to previous operative intervention.
Lyme Disease: What the Wilderness Provider Needs to Know
Authors: Forrester Joseph D. , Vakkalanka J. Priyanka , Holstege Christopher P. , Mead Paul S.
Published: July 2015

Lyme disease is a multisystem tickborne illness caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi and is the most common vectorborne disease in the United States. Prognosis after initiation of appropriate antibiotic therapy is typically good if treated early. Wilderness providers caring for patients who live in or travel to high-incidence Lyme disease areas should be aware of the basic biology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment of Lyme disease.
Reputation and Civil War
Authors: Walter Barbara F.
Published: July 2015

Of all the different types of civil war, disputes over self-determination are the most likely to escalate into war and resist compromise settlement. Reputation and Civil War argues that this low rate of negotiation is the result of reputation building, in which governments refuse to negotiate with early challengers in order to discourage others from making more costly demands in the future. Jakarta's wars against East Timor and Aceh, for example, were not designed to maintain sovereignty but to signal to Indonesia's other minorities that secession would be costly. Employing data from three different sources - laboratory experiments on undergraduates, statistical analysis of data on self-determination movements, and qualitative analyses of recent history in Indonesia and the Philippines - Barbara F. Walter provides some of the first systematic evidence that reputation strongly influences behavior, particularly between governments and ethnic minorities fighting over territory.
The Works of John Ruskin
Authors: Ruskin John
Published: July 2015

The influence of John Ruskin (1819–1900), both on his own time and on artistic and social developments in the twentieth century, cannot be over-stated. He changed Victorian perceptions of art, and was the main influence behind 'Gothic revival' architecture. As a social critic, he argued for the improvement of the condition of the poor, and against the increasing mechanisation of work in factories, which he believed was dull and soul-destroying. The thirty-nine volumes of the Library Edition of his works, published between 1903 and 1912, are themselves a remarkable achievement, in which his books and essays - almost all highly illustrated - are given a biographical and critical context in extended introductory essays and in the 'Minor Ruskiniana' - extracts from letters, articles and reminiscences both by and about Ruskin. Volume 28, in two parts, contains the fourth, fifth and sixth volumes of Fors Clavigera.
Zeus
Authors: Cook A. B.
Published: July 2015

A. B. Cook (1868–1952) published the first volume of his monumental Zeus: A Study in Ancient Religion in 1914. This comprehensive work traces the genesis, development and growth of the cult of Zeus from Hellenic worship of the 'bright sky' to the personified and anthropomorphised Zeus, the god of the sky. It focuses on the development of mountain-cults, religious syncretism with solar cults, and the importance of the sun, moon and stars to the worship of Zeus. Cook skilfully integrates both archaeological and ancient literary evidence as well as offering a synthesis of scholarly knowledge. This sumptuous work is a treasure-trove of primary texts, epigraphic material and archaeological data. It contains over 600 illustrations and the most important literary sources, both Greek and Latin, are quoted in full. It is an indispensable tool for students of classics, mythology and ancient religion.
Arab Water Security
Authors: Amery Hussein A.
Published: July 2015

This book explores the national security implications of the Arab Gulf states' reliance on desalination plants, and their related infrastructure. It provides the first systematic and comprehensive discussion of current and future threats to the supply of freshwater from a desalination plant, including actual and virtual attacks by terrorists, mechanical failure, contamination, sabotage by aggrieved workers, attacks relating to regional conflicts, as well as their vulnerability to natural disasters. It also provides a detailed analysis of the effects of a potential disruption to the water supply, and proposes possible measures, both political and technological, that can be used to increase resilience to these threats. Arab Water Security is a valuable reference for researchers and graduate students, as well as for policy makers and professionals, interested in water security, natural resources, and environmental terrorism.