bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The First Home Buyer Grant and house prices in Australia
Authors: Blight David , Field Michael , Henriquez Eider
Published: April 2016

Australia’s First Home Buyer Grants (FHBG) was designed to assist first home buyers into the market through a range of measures, grants and assistance packages. From the year 2000 there has been a strong increase in house price resulting in house prices nearly doubling between 2000 and 2008, well above the CPI or normal investment growth rate. This paper sets out that the FHBG was a main driver of these increases and attempts to measure by how much. We have considered if the FHBG is a direct driver of increasing median house prices and an indirect driver through increased borrowing ability. Due to the combination of the FHBG, the ability to borrow more, and an inelastic supply, we have concluded that the FHBG did increase the median price of houses in Australian by approximately $57,321.
Does free trade result in higher GDP per capita: An International Perspective
Authors: Lambrechts John , Erin McGrath , Rule Naomi
Published: April 2016

The theory of comparative advantage suggests that free trade increases overall world production of goods and services and it is a positive sum game in which all participating countries realise economic gains. The evaluation of data from a number of countries in this study demonstrates a strong correlation between a country’s level of trade freedom (according to its Trade Freedom Index) and its GDP per capita. There are exceptions to this trend in countries that have experienced social or political unrest. This is consistent with research into the relationship between economic freedom and GDP growth which suggest that levels of economic freedom (of which trade freedom is a component) in a country impact upon growth subject to social, economic or political climate in these countries
Teoria econômica do crime: uma abordagem a partir do programa bolsa família no estado do Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Grings Maicon , Lesimann Edison Luiz
Published: April 2016

O aumento da criminalidade tem motivado pesquisas buscando soluções para amenizar a incidência de crimes, bem como através de variáveis socioeconômicas, explicar os altos índices de criminalidade que assolam a sociedade contemporânea. Os trabalhos empíricos revelam que alguns aspectos econômicos, como concentração de renda, nível educacional, taxa de desemprego, conseguem explicar o fenômeno da criminalidade nas regiões brasileiras. Entretanto tem poucos trabalhos que retratam o efeito do programa Bolsa Família na incidência da criminalidade. No presente estudo busca-se analisar a relação dessas duas variáveis. O assunto se mostra de suma importância, uma vez que retrata um dos maiores problemas enfrentados pela sociedade, por conseguinte, discussões em torno da temática promovem inferências que proporcionam a criação de políticas públicas que visam o combate da criminalidade. Como resultados, destaca-se que o programa Bolsa Família, ao contrário do que se esperava, não se apresentou como uma variável que tende a auxiliar a diminuição dos índices de criminalidade para os 496 municípios do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul.
Teologi Lokal dalam Konteks Global
Authors: Banawiratma Johanes Baptista Giyana
Published: April 2016

Today in the globalization process the poor is marginalized. This reflection is based on the Indonesian context of economic dependence and marginalization of the poor and the powerless. The analysis goes to axes of power namely state, market, and community. Market fundamentalism has penetrated into all kinds of powers in such a way that the powerless is excluded from the economic participation. The economic system is taking sides against the need of the poor people. The way of life of the early Christian gives an example how people live in common. The teaching of Jesus stresses very much on the preferential option of thepoor. The idea of the globalization from below and the multitude might be a help to move forward to face the problem of social injustice in all areas and levels.
Satellite analysis to identify changes and drivers of CyanoHABs dynamics in Lake Taihu
Authors: Zhang Yuchao , Ma Ronghua , Duan Hongtao , Loiselle Steven , Xu Jinduo
Published: April 2016

A long-term satellite-based analysis was performed to assess the impact of environmental factors on cyanobacterial harmful blooms (CyanoHABs) dynamics in a typical shallow lake, Lake Taihu. A sub-pixel approach (algae pixel-growing algorithm) was used with 13 years of MOderate-resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data to evaluate changes in bloom extension, initiation date, duration, and occurrence frequency before and after a massive bloom event (2007). Results indicated that the conditions after this event changed, with a general delay in bloom initiation and a reduction in bloom duration. The environmental drivers of daily, monthly and inter-annual CyanoHABs dynamics were analyzed by detrended correspondence analysis, principal components analysis and redundancy analysis. This demonstrated that wind speed was the main driver for daily CyanoHABs dynamics, and CODmn, total phosphorus and water temperature were closely related to monthly CyanoHABs dynamics. For the year scale, Tmean and nutrients were the main drivers of CyanoHABs initiation date and duration, and meteorological factors influenced CyanoHABs frequency for the whole lake. Regular monitoring of CyanoHABs by remote sensing has become a key element in the continued assessment of bloom conditions in Lake Taihu, and nutrient reduction policies contribute to decrease CyanoHABs occurrence.
Aortic Wall Extracellular Matrix Proteins Correlate with Syntax Score in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Authors: Chiong Terri , Cheow Esther S. H. , Woo Chin C. , Lin Xiao Y. , Khin Lay W. , Lee Chuen N. , Hartman Mikael , Sze Siu K. , Sorokin Vitaly A.
Published: April 2016

Aims:

The SYNTAX score correlate with major cardiovascular events post-revascularization, although the histopathological basis is unclear. We aim to evaluate the association between syntax score and extracellular matrix histological characteristics of aortic punch tissue obtained during coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). This analysis compares coronary artery bypass surgery patients with High and Low syntax score which were followed up for one year period.

Methods and Results:

Patients with High (score ≥ 33, (n=77)) and Low Syntax Scores (score ≤ 22, (n=71)) undergoing elective CABG were recruited prospectively. Baseline clinical characteristics and surgical risks were well matched. At 1 year, EMACCE (Sum of cardiovascular death, stroke, congestive cardiac failure, and limb, gut and myocardial ischemia) was significantly elevated in the High syntax group (P=0.022). Mass spectrometry (MS)-based quantitative iTRAQ proteomic results validated on independent cohort by immunohistochemistry (IHC) revealed that the High syntax group had significantly upraised Collagen I (P<0.0001) and Elastin (P<0.0001) content in ascending aortic wall.

Conclusion:

This study shows that aortic extracellular matrix (ECM) differ between High and Low syntax groups with up-regulation of Collagen I and Elastin level in High Syntax Score group. This identifies aortic punches collected during CABG as another biomarker source related with atherosclerosis severity and possible clinical outcome.
Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri Populations and Numbers in Europe: A Complete Overview
Authors: Pârâu Liviu G. , Strubbe Diederik , Mori Emiliano , Menchetti Mattia , Ancillotto Leonardo , Kleunen André van , White Rachel L. , Luna Álvaro , Hernández-Brito Dailos , Louarn Marine Le , Clergeau Philippe , Albayrak Tamer , Franz Detlev , Braun Michael P. , Schroeder Julia , Wink Michael
Published: April 2016

Background:

Alien species are one of the major causes contributing to biodiversity loss. In Europe, over 340 alien bird species have been recorded in the wild, of which 74 are established. Among 12 established alien parrot species in Europe, the Rose-ringed Parakeet (RRP) Psittacula krameri is the most abundant and widespread.

Objective:

Although one of the best documented alien vertebrates in Europe, historical and current datasets on RRP invasion success and demography have not been systematically collated and analysed. This paper therefore aims to bring together, verify and make available this information.

Method:

Existing distribution and demographic data for the RRP in Europe were collated from the following sources: (a) literature search; (b) bird sighting databases; (c) regional bird experts; (d) RRP roost counts. With this data, we evaluated population size and growth per population, country and the whole of Europe in the period 1965-2015.

Results:

The RRP is well established in Europe with at least 90 breeding populations in 10 countries, and a total population size of at least 85,000 birds as of 2015. For Western Europe, long-term demographic data indicate the species has grown considerably in number, although some populations have failed to persist. Data is scarce for countries in Central, Eastern and Northern Europe.

Conclusion:

Our synthesis reveals a positive demographic trend across Europe, although locally, some populations appear to have reached carrying capacity. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms underlying RRP population growth in Europe, and methods amenable to citizen-scientists are urgently required to monitor population and range dynamics.
Decline in blood hemoglobin concentrations is associated with familial longevity
Authors: He Yong-Han , Pu Shao-Yan , Li Wen , Chen Xiao-Qiong , Xiao Fu-Hui , Yan Dong-Jing , Liu Yao-Wen , Lin Rong , Liao Xiao-Ping , Yang Xing-Li , Ge Ming-Xia , Cai Wang-Wei , Kong Qing-Peng
Published: April 2016

Hemoglobin(HGB)in the blood carries oxygen from the lungs to other organs to
produce energy. Calorie restriction has been shown to slow aging and extend
lifespan. Thus, we hypothesized that HGB maybe associated with human
longevity as a link to energy metabolism. To test this hypothesis, HGB levels
in the blood of 60 centenarian(CEN) families were measured and its
association with age(20-80 and 20-100 years)was studied, as well as the
associations of CEN HGB with levels in first generation offspring (F1) and
their spouses (F1SP). The results showed no association of HGB with age
between 20 and 80 years (r=-0.097, p=0.160); however a strikingly inverse
relationship with age between 20 and 100 years (r=-0.526, p<0.001)was
revealed. After dividing the samples into four age groups (20-39, 40-59,
60-80 and ?100 years), the HGB in CEN were significantly lower than that of
F1SP(p<0.001). Interestingly, the HGB levels of CEN were significantly
associated with that of F1(r=0.379, p=0.015)but not with F1SP(r=0.022,
p=0.451), suggesting that HGB could be a heritable phenotype. Furthermore,
the genes methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase(MTHFR), nuclear receptor
subfamily 2, group C, member 1(NR2C1)and NR2C2were differentially expressed
in CEN when compared to F1SP, which may likely be responsible for the changes
in HGB levels. In conclusion, our results suggest that HGB is a heritable
phenotype which associates with familial longevity.
The cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) gene family in flax (Linum usitatissimum L.): Insight from expression profiling of cads induced by elicitors in cultured flax cells
Authors: Eom Hee , Kim Heekyu , Hyun Kyung
Published: April 2016

Cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) is a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of
lignin and lignans as it catalyzes the final step of monolignol biosynthesis,
using NADPH as a cofactor. In higher plants, CAD is encoded by a multigene
family consisting of three major classes. Based on the recently released
flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) whole-genome sequences, in this study we
identified six CAD family genes that contain an ADH_N domain and an
ADH_zinc_N domain, which suggests that the putative flax CADs (LuCADs) are
zinc-dependent alcohol dehydrogenases and members of the plant CAD family.
In addition, expression analysis using quantitative real-time PCR revealed
spatial variations in the expression of LuCADs in different organs.
Comparative analysis between LuCAD enzymatic activity and LuCAD transcripts
indicates that the variation of LuCAD enzymatic activities by elicitors is
reflected by transcription of LuCADs in flax suspension-cultured cells. Taken
together, our genome-wide analysis of CAD genes and the expression profiling
of these genes provide valuable information for understanding the function
of CADs, and will assist future studies on the physiological role of
monolignols associated with plant defense.
Music, dance and memory: Towards deliberation of field research of dance
Authors: Rakocevic Selena
Published: April 2016

Although ethnochoreology and ethnomusicology as related academic disciplines
have decades-long histories, reviewing and redefining their basic
epistemological and methodological principles remained one of the main
focuses of disciplinary discussion. Most ethnochoreologists and
ethnomusicologist agrees that ?field? work (in all its traditional and
contemporary forms) remains an essential and constitutive quality of their
research and disciplinary fields. The inherent interdisciplinary networking
of ethnochoreology and ethnomusicology starts from the theoretical premise
that the relationship between the kinetic and musical components of dance is
not only unbreakable, but also interactive, and that complex and dynamic
manifestations of dance performances represents an expressive medium through
which a particular community constructs and represents itself. Since the
importance of the individual experience of researchers has been ephasized
during the last few decades, a comprehensive method of participant
observation remains a central and unifying aspect of fieldwork, both in
ethnochoreology and ethnomusicology. Based on field research of musical and
dance practices of the village of Svinica (Svini?a) in Romania, this paper
reviews the application and combination of various methods of field research
(observation, participation in the performance process, filming, interviews
and writing field notes) as the primary tools for the acquisition and shaping
of scientific knowledge about dance and music. Issues that will be discussed
include the following questions: What are the advantages of personal
kinetic/auditory experience during simultaneous perception of dance movement
and dance music? How can different methods of field research be combined in
order to improve cognitive processes? Are there border areas between
ethnochoreological and ethnomusicological fieldwork? Does the variety of
methods of field research represents a weakness of the interdisciplinary
approach or its advantage? On which information recorded during the fieldwork
does a researcher usually build his post-field
ethnochoreological/ethnomusical narratives? Through discussion of all these
issues, particular emphasis will therefore be placed on the consideration of
processes of memorization (visual, auditory and kinetic) when applying the
method of participation in the dance performance.
We are not a female band, we are a band!”: Female performance as a model of gender transgression in Serbian popular music
Authors: Nenic Iva
Published: April 2016

Instrumental performance, leadership, and authorship by women in music has
historically been subjected to various repressive regimes, while many of the
prejudices and restrictions regarding female musicking can still be discerned
in contemporary popular music practices in Serbia. These mechanisms have been
transferred into contemporary music with different ideological and stylistic
inclination, such as indie music cohorts and folk- or tradition-based genres
and scenes. The structural preconditions that articulate the subject position
of female instrumentalists, regardless of genre or the scene they belong to
are the lack of history of female playing and the requirement that they reach
the supposedly higher standards of male musicians. This article starts with a
brief genealogy of female instrumental music performance from late socialism
to the diversity of contemporary popular music in its present neo-liberal
context. Against that background it interprets the disciplining mechanisms
restricting female musical creativity and performance, addressing the issues
of identity and power through female agency in music.
Blood concentrations of B-type natriuretic peptide and N-terminal prohormone B-type natriuretic peptide as markers of left ventricle diastolic function in patients with chronic renal failure
Authors: Petrovic Milica , Grdinic Aleksandra , Bokonjic Dubravko , Rabrenovic Violeta , Antic Svetlana , Terzic Brankica , Stamenkovic Dusica , Stajic Zoran , Petrovic Dejan , Ignjatovic Ljiljana , Pejovic Janko , Jovanovic Dragan
Published: April 2016

Background/Aim. Patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) have increased
cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. It is unknown which biomarkers best
describe the degree of diastolic dysfunction in patients with CRF. The aim of
this study was to determine the correlation between B-type natriuretic
peptide (BNP), N-terminal prohormone brain natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP) and
left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (DD-LV) with the degree of CRF.
Methods. The study included 100 adult patients with CRF without major cardiac
and cerebral incidents who did not start actively treating CRF. According to
the degree of CRF, the patients were divided into two groups: G1 (moderate
degree), glomerular filtration rate (GFR) ? 30 mL/min/1.73 m2, and G2 (more
severe degree), GFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2. Blood concentrations of BNP and
NTproBNP were measured and Doppler echocardiographic measurement performed to
estimate diastolic dysfunction (DD-LV). According to the degree of DD-LV, all
the patients were divided into two groups: DD-LV1 (mild diastolic
dysfunction) and DD-LV2 (severe diastolic dysfunction). According to the
degree of CRF and DD-LV, the patients were divided into four groups: I (G1,
DD-LV1), II (G1, DD-LV2), III (G2, DD-LV1) and IV (G2, DD-LV2). Results.
There was a highly significant statistical correlation between BNP and
NTproBNP with GFR (p < 0.001), and DD-LV with BNP (p < 0.023) and NTproBNP (p
= 0.035). In patients with DD-LV2, a statistically significantly higher BNP
concentrations were registered in patients with G2 (p < 0.001). Unlike BNP in
the patients with diastolic dysfunction DD-LV1 and those with diastolic
dysfunction DD-LV2, significantly higher concentrations of NTproBNP were
registered in the patients with G2 (DD- LV1: p = 0.006; DD-LV2: p < 0.001).
Conclusion. Biomarkers BNP and NTproBNP are not the best predictors in the
assessment of diastolic dysfunction because they are correlated with the
degree of renal insufficiency.
Pulmonary veins isolation in a patient with atrial fibrillation and pronounced vagal response: Is it enough?
Authors: Dincic Dragan , Gudelj Ognjen , Djuric Ivica , Marinkovic Milan
Published: April 2016

Introduction. Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) by antral circumferential
ablation is the standard procedure for patients with symptomatic and
drug-refractory paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). In some patients
addition of ganglionated plexi (GP) modification in anatomic locations to PVI
confers significantly better outcomes than PVI alone. Case report. We
reported a patient with paroxysmal, symptomatic AF and severe bradycardia a
month prior to ablation. The patient was treated with antiarrhythmic drugs
without success. Because of severe bradicardia the patient was implanted with
a temporary pace maker two days before PVI. During PVI the decision was made
to also do a modification of the left GP. Three months after the procedure
the patients was in stable sinus rhythm without any symptoms. Conclusion. In
selected patients with paroxysmal AF and pronounced vagal response PVI by
circumferential antral ablation combined with GP modification during single
ablation procedure can produce higher success rates than PVI or GP ablation
alone.
Zika virus detection in cerebrospinal fluid from two patients with encephalopathy, Martinique, February 2016
Authors: Rozé Benoît , Najioullah Fatiha , Signate Aïssatou , Apetse Kossivi , Brouste Yannick , Gourgoudou Sarah , Fagour Laurence , Abel Sylvie , Hochedez Patrick , Cesaire Raymond , Cabié André ,   on behalf of the Neuro-Zika Working Group of Martinique
Published: April 2016

We report two cases of encephalopathy (one with seizures, one with electroencephalogram changes) in patients with Zika virus infection. The cases occurred on Martinique in February 2016, during the Zika virus outbreak. Awareness of the various neurological complications of Zika virus infection is needed for patients living in areas affected by Zika virus infections or for travellers to these areas.
Assessment of Prescription Patterns in Hypertensive and Diabetic Patients Visiting Private Tertiary Care Hospital of Dharan Municipality, Nepal
Authors: Dahal Prasanna , Maharjan Laxman , Dahal Bibek , Gupta Kissan
Published: April 2016

This study was conducted to assess the drug prescribing trend of anti-hypertensive and hypoglycemic agents in hypertensive and diabetic patients in tertiary care private Hospital. The study was prospective, cross-sectional and observational study. A total of 100 prescriptions were recorded. 56% were males as compared to 44% females. The age group of the patients varied from 30 to 90 years with majority individual above 50 years of age. 59% patients were hypertensive; 26% patients were diabetic and 15% had both the diseases. For the treatment of HTN, both mono-therapy and combination therapy were followed. In mono-therapy, amlodipine was most commonly prescribed followed by losartan. In combination therapy, a two-drug combination consisting of calcium channel blockers (amlodipine) and diuretics (furosemide /hydrochlorothiazide) were given to the majority of patients, followed by Diuretics and Angiotensin receptor blocker combination. Among diabetic hypertensive, 66.67% of patients were treated with single anti-hypertensive drug and 33.35% of patients were treated with anti-hypertensive drug combinations with oral hypoglycemics. This study showed that calcium channel blockers were the most prescribed antihypertensive agents while biguanides were the mostly prescribed among anti-diabetic agents. Combination therapy was observed in a high percentage of prescriptions in hypertensive patients. Prescribing pattern among antihypertensive showed some dubitable adherences to existing evidence-based JNC guidelines.Sunsari Technical College Journal 2015, 2(1):44-47
Post Publication Review on Security and Privacy Concerns for Australian SMEs Cloud Adoption: Empirical Study of Metropolitan vs Regional SMEs
Authors: Chutikulrungsee Tharntip Tawnie
Published: April 2016

A short post publication review
Effect of vanadium addition on the microstructure and mechanical properties of low carbon micro-alloyed powder metallurgy steels
Authors: Erden Mehmet Akif , Gündüz Süleyman , Karabulut Hasan , Türkmen Mustafa
Published: April 2016

In the present experimental work, the effects of vanadium additions on the microstructures and mechanical properties of powder metallurgy (PM) steel and microalloyed powder metallurgy (PM) steels were investigated. The microstructures of the PM steel and microalloyed PM steels were characterized by optic microscope, SEM and EDS. Experimental results showed that vanadium microalloyed steels can be produced by PM technology. The addition of vanadium limits grain growth during austenitization prior to air cooling and increases the strength in the sintered conditions. By limiting austenite grain growth, the precipitates result in significant improvement in strength.
Application of the three-high skew rolling to magnesium rods production
Authors: Stefanik Andrzej , Szota Piotr , Mroz Sebastian , Dyja Henryk
Published: April 2016

The main purpose of this paper was the theoretical and laboratory analysis of 20 mm AZ31 magnesium alloy rods rolled in the three-high skew rolling mill process. For this, the numerical analysis was carried out by using Forge2011® computer program. Based on the theoretical results, the distributions of stress, strain and temperature were determined. It turned out that rolling on the three-high skew rolling mill allows the rolling process to be run with high elongation factors in a single pass, which makes the skew rolling more economical and reduces the losses for roll mechanical working. After the rolling in three-high skew rolling mill, the rods of 20 mm diameter were straight, without surface defects and a low ovality.
Effect of heat treatment on an AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel evaluated by the ultrasonic attenuation coefficient
Authors: Moghanizadeh Abbas , Farzi Abolfazl
Published: April 2016

The properties of metals can be substantially changed by various methods, one of them is using heat treatment processes. Moreover, ultrasonic testing is the most preferred and effective, nondestructive testing technique for characterization of mechanical material properties. Austenitic stainless steel AISI 304 serves in many applications due to high strength and corrosion resistance. In certain applications, it is important to evaluate the mechanical properties of AISI 304 stainless steel. In this study, the ultrasonic method (attenuation measurement technique) is used to evaluate the hardness of AISI 304 stainless steel samples which were heat treated at different levels. Due to the heat treatment process, each sample has its specific microstructure and hardness which attenuate ultrasonic waves appropriately. The ultrasonic and hardness test show that it is possible to evaluate the hardness of AISI 304 stainless steel by ultrasonic attenuation coefficient. In addition, the relationship between ultrasonic attenuation coefficients and time of heat treatment is investigated.
In-situ grown interwoven NiSe on Ni foam as a catalyst for hydrazine oxidation
Authors: Dong Bin , Li Xiao , Shang Xiao , Chai Yong-Ming , Liu Chen-Guang
Published: April 2016

NiSe was prepared in-situ on nickel foam (NiSe/NF), using a solvothermal process. The NiSe/NF consisted of interwoven nanorods and nanowires. The interwoven NiSe/NF was of good crystallinity and contained no impurities, and consisted of many nanorods and a few nanowires. The interwoven structure uniformly covered the NF substrate, which can potentially yield a large surface area with abundant active sites, and thus high catalytic activity. The NiSe/NF was used as a working electrode for hydrazine oxidation, in 1.0 mol L−1 KOH containing 20 mmol L−1 N2H4 · H2O. Excellent electrocatalytic activity and stability of NiSe/NF for hydrazine oxidation was observed, with a current density of 22 mA cm−2 at −0.53 V. The interwoven structure and good conductivity of NiSe/NF promoted its electrocatalytic activity.
Influence on Product Quality by pvT-Optimised Processing in Injection Compression Molding
Authors: Hopmann Ch. , Reßmann A. , Heinisch J.
Published: April 2016

The production of functional optical parts made of plastics is a growing market and the associated production processes have to be developed to fulfil the increasing quality requirements. In this paper an alternative injection compression molding process using the pvT-behavior of the plastics material is compared to the conventional processing method using an isobaric process path. For both control strategies a cavity pressure loop-control is implemented and used. According to measurements of the mold surface reproduction accuracy and internal properties of the molded part the processing method using the pvT-behavior results in a higher optical part quality in the same cycle time compared to the isobaric processing method.
Effect of Plug Temperature on the Strain and Thickness Distribution of Components Made by Plug Assist Thermoforming
Authors: Marathe D. , Rokade D. , Busher Azad L. , Jadhav K. , Mahajan S. , Ahmad Z. , Gupta S. , Kulkarni S. , Juvekar V. , Lele A.
Published: April 2016

Plug temperature is a key parameter affecting the thickness distribution of thermoplastic components made by plug assist thermoforming. For a specified pair of plug and plastic sheet, the variation in plug temperature can alter the coefficient of friction (COF) between the pair. We show here how the temperature dependence of COF influences the nature and extent of biaxial stretching of the sheet and consequently the thickness distribution of the thermoformed component. In the present study, high impact polystyrene (HIPS) sheets were thermoformed into axisymmetric cups using a plug-assist process in which the aluminum plug temperature (Tplug) was varied from ambient to above the glass transition temperature of HIPS (∼100 °C). Biaxial strain maps on the surfaces of the formed cups were measured and quantified using Grid Strain Analysis (GSA). Thickness distributions of the cups were also measured. Temperature dependent COF between HIPS and aluminum was determined independently using a rotational rheometer. The measured COF was low for T < 100 °C, whereas it increased appreciably at and above 100 °C. We conclude that when Tplug < 100 °C the HIPS sheet slips on the plug during forming, and this results in biaxial stretching of the base and walls of the formed cup. In contrast for Tplug > 100 °C, a significant reduction in the magnitude of slip is expected. Here the sheet is gripped at the clamp and by the plug during forming which causes reduced biaxial stretching of the base and increased uniaxial stretching of the walls of the cup. Simulations of plug-assist thermoforming using a temperature dependent COF showed qualitative agreement with the GSA data thereby supporting our inferences.
Impact Behavior of Continuous Biaxial Reinforced Composites Based on Bio-Polyamides and Man-Made Cellulose Fibres
Authors: Feldmann M. , Verheyen F.
Published: April 2016

Composites based on thermoplastic matrix and glass or carbon fibre fabrics, like the so called organic sheets, show high potential for structural parts, e. g. in automotive applications. In this study renewable organic sheets based on bio-polyamides with a melting point above 200 °C and polypropylene for reference purposes were prepared. High energy absorption for these composites were expected regarding the high elongation at break (> 10 %) of the man-made cellulose fibres. In comparison to the cellulose reinforced composites, glass fibre composites were prepared. The complete or partly bio-based composites, with a thickness of approx. 2 mm, were manufactured by a high precision hot-press using the film-stacking-process considering less fibre degradation at high processing temperatures. Besides dart drop tests (penetration mode and impact mode) and optical microscopy were done to characterize the composites. The bio-based composites show lower density, higher energy absorption rates and lower damping values as a consequence of the cellulose fibres properties and the fibre-matrix-adhesion.
Electrical and Mechanical Properties of Antistatic Poly(vinyl chloride) Composites Filled with Silver Plated Hollow Glass Microspheres
Authors: Zhang M. Y. , Wang J. , Chen X. L. , Qi S. H.
Published: April 2016

Antistatic poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) composites filled with silver plated hollow glass microspheres (Ag-HGMs) were prepared using the melt-mixing method. Electrical resistivity and mechanical properties of the Ag-HGMs/PVC composites were subsequently investigated. The results show that the HGMs were successfully coated with a uniform and compact silver layer. With increasing Ag-HGMs content, the volume resistivity of Ag-HGMs/PVC composites decreases nonlinearly. With an Ag-HGMs content of about 120 phr, reaching the percolation concentration, the composites meet the antistatic requirements for commercial antistatic PVC materials. Furthermore, the tensile strength of Ag-HGMs/PVC composites decreases with increasing content of Ag-HGMs, while the impact strength increases with increasing content of Ag-HGMs from 0 phr to 150 phr. We especially found that, with a Ag-HGMs content of 20 phr, Ag-HGMs/PVC composites exhibit great impact strength.
Benefit of Adjuvant Chemotherapy and Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection in pT3 and Node Positive Bladder Cancer Patients Treated with Radical Cystectomy
Authors: Boström Peter J. , Mirtti Tuomas , van Rhijn Bas , Fleshner Neil E. , Finelli Antonio , Laato Matti , Jewett Michael A. , Moore Malcom J. , Sridhar Srikala , Nurmi Martti , Tannock Ian F. , Zlotta Alexandre R.
Published: April 2016

Background: Benefits of adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) and extent of pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) in radical cystectomy (RC) are debated. Results from randomized trials are still expected.

Objective: To analyze the effects of AC and PLND in two academic centers with opposite policies regarding their use.

Methods: 581 bladder cancer patients who underwent RC without neoadjuvant chemotherapy, from Toronto (University Health Network), Canada, and Turku University Hospital, Finland were included. Disease specific survival (DSS) and failure patterns were assessed.

Results: Centers differed in PLND rate (93% and 36% in Toronto and Turku respectively, p <  0.001), PLND extent (≥10 removed nodes, 58% vs. 8%, p <  0.001) and AC rate (21% vs. 2%, p <  0.001). Survival between centers among pT≤1 or pT4 patients was similar. pT3 patients in Toronto had an improved 10 year DSS (43% vs. 22%, p = 0.025). Distant failures were less common after AC (HR 0.56, 95%  CI 0.33–0.98, p <  0.042). In node positive (N+) patients, mortality was significantly higher in Turku (HR 2.19, 95%  CI 1.44–3.34, p <  0.001) and lower in patients receiving AC (HR 0.60, 95%  CI 0.37–0.99, p = 0.044). 41% DSS at 10 years was observed in N+ Toronto patients. Limitations included the non-randomized retrospective design and absence of propensity score analysis.

Conclusion: Combining AC and PLND to RC is associated with improved survival in pT3 and N+ patients. PLND did not affect survival independently but helps in selecting patients for AC. Our data adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the usefulness of AC in addition to PLND in high risk patients operated by cystectomy.
Behavioral and Physiological Responses of Calves to Marshalling and Roping in a Simulated Rodeo Event
Authors: Sinclair Michelle , Keeley Tamara , Lefebvre Anne-Cecile , Phillips Clive
Published: April 2016

Rodeos are public events at which stockpeople face tests of their ability to manage cattle and horses, some of which relate directly to rangeland cattle husbandry. One of these is calf roping, in which a calf released from a chute is pursued by a horse and rider, who lassoes, lifts and drops the calf to the ground and finally ties it around the legs. Measurements were made of behavior and stress responses of ten rodeo-naïve calves marshalled by a horse and rider, and ten rodeo-experienced calves that were roped. Naïve calves marshalled by a horse and rider traversed the arena slowly, whereas rodeo-experienced calves ran rapidly until roped. Each activity was repeated once after two hours. Blood samples taken before and after each activity demonstrated increased cortisol, epinephrine and nor-epinephrine in both groups. However, there was no evidence of a continued increase in stress hormones in either group by the start of the repeated activity, suggesting that the elevated stress hormones were not a response to a prolonged effect of the initial blood sampling. It is concluded that both the marshalling of calves naïve to the roping chute by stockpeople and the roping and dropping of experienced calves are stressful in a simulated rodeo calf roping event.
Perceived Thermal Discomfort and Stress Behaviours Affecting Students’ Learning in Lecture Theatres in the Humid Tropics
Authors: Amasuomo Tamaraukuro , Amasuomo Japo
Published: April 2016

The study investigated the relationship between students’ perceived thermal discomfort and stress behaviours affecting their learning in lecture theatres in the humid tropics. Two lecture theatres, LTH-2 and 3, at the Niger Delta University, Nigeria, were used for the study. Two groups of students from the Faculties of Agriculture and Engineering and the Department of Technology Education constituted the population. The sample size selected through random sampling for Groups A and B was 210 and 370 students, respectively. Objective and self-report instruments were used for data collection. The objective instrument involved physical measurement of the two lecture theatres and of the indoor temperature, relative humidity and air movement. The self-report instrument was a questionnaire that asked for the students perceived indoor thermal discomfort levels and the effect of indoor thermal comfort level on perceived stress behaviours affecting their learning. The objective indoor environmental data indicated thermal discomfort with an average temperature of 29–32 °C and relative humidity of 78% exceeding the ASHARE [1] and Olgyay [2].The students’ experienced a considerable level of thermal discomfort and also perceived that stress behaviours due to thermal discomfort affected their learning. Further, there were no significant differences in the perceived thermal discomfort levels of the two groups of students in LTH-2 and 3. Furthermore, stress behaviours affecting learning as perceived by the two groups of students did not differ significantly. In addition, no correlation existed between the perceived indoor thermal discomfort levels and stress behaviour levels affecting learning for students in LTH-2, because the arousal level of the students in the thermal environment was likely higher than the arousal level for optimal performance [3,4]. However, a correlation existed in the case of students in LTH-3, which was expected because it only confirmed the widely-accepted view that stress behaviours exhibited by students in any learning can have a profound effect on learning. It was recommended that teaching-learning indoor environment should be thermally comfortable by providing adequate window openings with proper orientation and also by ensuring that the learning space only accommodated the required student capacity to reduce the stress behaviours that affect learning.
Distributed Measuring System for Predictive Diagnosis of Uninterruptible Power Supplies in Safety-Critical Applications
Authors: Saponara Sergio
Published: April 2016

This work proposes a scalable architecture of an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) system, with predictive diagnosis capabilities, for safety critical applications. A Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) has identified the faults occurring in the energy storage unit, based on Valve Regulated Lead-Acid batteries, and in the 3-phase high power transformers, used in switching converters and for power isolation, as the main bottlenecks for power system reliability. To address these issues, a distributed network of measuring nodes is proposed, where vibration-based mechanical stress diagnosis is implemented together with electrical (voltage, current, impedance) and thermal degradation analysis. Power system degradation is tracked through multi-channel measuring nodes with integrated digital signal processing in the transformed frequency domain, from 0.1 Hz to 1 kHz. Experimental measurements on real power systems for safety-critical applications validate the diagnostic unit.
Association between Outdoor Fungal Concentrations during Winter and Pulmonary Function in Children with and without Asthma
Authors: Watanabe Masanari , Noma Hisashi , Kurai Jun , Hantan Degejirihu , Burioka Naoto , Nakamoto Sachiko , Sano Hiroyuki , Taniguchi Jumpei , Shimizu Eiji
Published: April 2016

Outdoor fungi are important components of airborne particulate matter (PM). However, the associations between pulmonary function and outdoor fungi are less well known compared to other airborne PM constituents. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between outdoor fungi and pulmonary function in children. Morning peak expiratory flow (PEF) rates were measured daily in 339 schoolchildren (including 36 with asthma), aged 10 to 12, 2 to 27 February 2015. Airborne PM was collected on filters, using a high volume air sampler, each day during the study period. The daily concentration of outdoor fungi-associated PM was calculated using a culture-based method. A linear mixed model was used to estimate the association between PEF values and daily concentrations of outdoor fungi, and the daily levels of suspended PM (SPM) and PM ≤ 2.5 μm (PM2.5). An increase in the interquartile range (46.2 CFU/m3) for outdoor fungal concentration led to PEF changes of −1.18 L/min (95% confidence interval, −2.27 to −0.08) in all children, 1.22 L/min (−2.96 to 5.41) in children without asthma, and −1.44 L/min (−2.57 to −0.32) in children with asthma. Outdoor fungi showed a significant negative correlation with PM2.5 levels (r = −0.4, p = 0.04), but not with SPM (r = ‒0.3, p = 0.10) levels. Outdoor fungi may be associated with pulmonary dysfunction in children. Furthermore, children with asthma may show greater pulmonary dysfunction than those without asthma.
The Effects of Spark-Plasma Sintering (SPS) on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of BaTiO3/3Y-TZP Composites
Authors: Li Jing , Cui Bencang , Wang Huining , Lin Yuanhua , Deng Xuliang , Li Ming , Nan Cewen
Published: April 2016

Composite ceramics BaTiO3/3Y-TZP containing 0 mol %, 3 mol %, 5 mol %, 7 mol %, and 10 mol % BaTiO3 have been prepared by conventional sintering and spark-plasma sintering (SPS), respectively. Analysis of the XRD patterns and Raman spectra reveal that the phase composition of t-ZrO2, m-ZrO2, and BaTiO3 has been obtained. Our results indicate that SPS can be effective for the decrease in grain size and porosity compared with conventional sintering, which results in a lower concentration of m-ZrO2 and residual stress. Therefore, the fracture toughness is enhanced by the BaTiO3 phase through the SPS technique, while the behavior was impaired by the piezoelectric second phase through conventional sintering.
Rapid Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Pepino (Solanum muricatum) Leaf Extract and Their Cytotoxicity on HeLa Cells
Authors: Gorbe Mónica , Bhat Ravishankar , Aznar Elena , Sancenón Félix , Marcos M. , Herraiz F. , Prohens Jaime , Venkataraman Abbaraju , Martínez-Máñez Ramón
Published: April 2016

Within nanotechnology, gold and silver nanostructures have unique physical, chemical, and electronic properties [1,2], which make them suitable for a number of applications. Moreover, biosynthetic methods are considered to be a safer alternative to conventional physicochemical procedures for both the environmental and biomedical applications, due to their eco-friendly nature and the avoidance of toxic chemicals in the synthesis. For this reason, employing bio routes in the synthesis of functionalized silver nanoparticles (FAgNP) have gained importance recently in this field. In the present study, we report the rapid synthesis of FAgNP through the extract of pepino (Solanum muricatum) leaves and employing microwave oven irradiation. The core-shell globular morphology and characterization of the different shaped and sized FAgNP, with a core of 20–50 nm of diameter is established using the UV-Visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Zeta potential and dynamic light scanning (DLS) studies. Moreover, cytotoxic studies employing HeLa (human cervix carcinoma) cells were undertaken to understand FAgNP interactions with cells. HeLa cells showed significant dose dependent antiproliferative activity in the presence of FAgNP at relatively low concentrations. The calculated IC50 value was 37.5 µg/mL, similar to others obtained for FAgNPs against HeLa cells.
Novel Azetidine-Containing TZT-1027 Analogues as Antitumor Agents
Authors: Yan Qi , Wang Yujie , Zhang Wei , Li Yingxia
Published: April 2016

A conformational restriction strategy was used to design and synthesize nine TZT-1027 analogues. 3-Aryl-azetidine moiety was used to replace phenylethyl group of TZT-1027 at the C-terminus. These analogues exhibited moderate to excellent antiproliferative activities, and the most potent compound 1a showed IC50 values of 2.2 nM against A549 and 2.1 nM against HCT116 cell lines, respectively. However, 1a could not achieve effective inhibition at all the dose levels in the A549 xenograft model (up to 5 mg/kg, injection, once a day), which is only 16%–35% inhibition at the end of the experiment.
Polyketides from the Mangrove-Derived Endophytic Fungus Nectria sp. HN001 and Their α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity
Authors: Cui Hui , Liu Yayue , Nie Yang , Liu Zhaoming , Chen Senhua , Zhang Zhengrui , Lu Yongjun , He Lei , Huang Xishan , She Zhigang
Published: April 2016

Four new polyketides: nectriacids A–C (1–3) and 12-epicitreoisocoumarinol (4), together with three known compounds: citreoisocoumarinol (5), citreoisocoumarin (6), and macrocarpon C (7) were isolated from the culture of the endophytic fungus Nectria sp. HN001, which was isolated from a fresh branch of the mangrove plant Sonneratia ovata collected from the South China Sea. Their structures were determined by the detailed analysis of NMR and mass spectroscopic data. The absolute configuration of the stereogenic carbons for compound 4 was further assigned by Mosher’s ester method. All of the isolated compounds were tested for their α-glucosidase inhibitory activity by UV absorbance at 405 nm, and new compounds 2 and 3 exhibited potent inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 23.5 and 42.3 μM, respectively, which were more potent than positive control (acarbose, IC50, 815.3 μM).
Effect of Surface States on Joining Mechanisms and Mechanical Properties of Aluminum Alloy (A5052) and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) by Dissimilar Friction Spot Welding
Authors: Yusof Farazila , Muhamad Mohd , Moshwan Raza , Jamaludin Mohd , Miyashita Yukio
Published: April 2016

In this research, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), as a high-density thermoplastic sheet, and Aluminum A5052, as a metal with seven distinct surface roughnesses, were joined by friction spot welding (FSW). The effect of A5052’s various surface states on the welding joining mechanism and mechanical properties were investigated. Friction spot welding was successfully applied for the dissimilar joining of PET thermoplastics and aluminum alloy A5052. During FSW, the PET near the joining interface softened, partially melted and adhered to the A5052 joining surface. The melted PET evaporated to form bubbles near the joining interface and cooled, forming hollows. The bubbles have two opposite effects: its presence at the joining interface prevent PET from contacting with A5052, while bubbles or hollows are crack origins that induce crack paths which degrade the joining strength. On the other hand, the bubbles’ flow pushed the softened PET into irregularities on the roughened surface to form mechanical interlocking, which significantly improved the strength. The tensile-shear failure load for an as-received surface (0.31 μ m Ra) specimen was about 0.4–0.8 kN while that for the treated surface (>0.31 μ m Ra) specimen was about 4.8–5.2 kN.