bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial perception and speech intelligibility with hearing aids
Authors: Cubick Jens , Buchholz Jorg M. , Best Virginia , Lavandier Mathieu , Dau Torsten
Published: June 2017

Cubick and Dau (2016) showed that speech reception thresholds (SRTs) in noise, obtained with normal-hearing (NH) listeners, can be significantly higher with hearing aids (HAs) than in the corresponding unaided condition. Some of the listeners reported a change in their spatial perception of the sounds due to the HA processing, with auditory images often being broader and closer to the listener or even internalized. The current study investigated whether worse speech intelligibility with HAs might be caused by a “shrunken” acoustic scene and thus a reduced ability to spatially separate the target speech from the interferers. SRTs were measured in normal-hearing listeners with or without “ideal” HAs (with broadband, linear, flat gain) in the presence of three interfering talkers or speech-shaped noises. The interferers were presented either at + /- 90 and 180 degrees azimuth or were colocated with the target sentence at 0 degrees. Consistent with the previous study, SRTs were found to be increased by 2-2.5 dB with HAs when the interferers were spatially separated, but only by 0.5-1 dB when they were colocated. This 1.5 dB difference indicates that at least some of the disruption to speech intelligibility caused by HAs can potentially be attributed to degraded spatial separation.
The trouble with reading machines: Exploring acoustic alphabets at Haskins Laboratories post World War II
Authors: O'Brien Gabrielle
Published: June 2017

At the end of World War II, the American Office of Scientific Research and Development turned to Franklin Cooper and Caryl Haskins, the co-founders of Haskins Laboratories, to build working reading machines that would assist blind veterans. Reading machines were devices that converted text to sound, using acoustic alphabets to assign each orthographic character its own sound. It was expected that given sufficient user training and an optimized acoustic alphabet, anyone could learn to use a reading machine. But the Haskins group quickly discovered that even the most proficient users could only “read” a few words a minute, and speeding up the device caused letters to blur as the temporal resolving limits of the ear were reached. The failure of acoustic alphabets, even employing a range of signal parameters, led the researchers to begin analyzing speech signals with the spectrograph, then a recent invention. This series of experiments demonstrated the infeasibility of rapid word recognition by acoustic alphabets, but serendipitously set the stage to reveal mechanisms by which speech is efficiently perceived.
Ultrasonic imaging of nonlinear scatterers buried in a medium
Authors: Haupert Sylvain , renaud guillaume , Schumm Andreas
Published: June 2017

An ultrasonic technique for imaging nonlinear scatterers, such as cracks, buried in a medium has been recently proposed. The method called amplitude modulation consists of a sequence of three acquisitions for each line of the image has been implemented on conventional phased array ultrasonic devices. The first acquisition is obtained by transmitting with all elements of the phased array while the second and third acquisitions are obtained by transmitting with odd elements only and even elements only, respectively. An image revealing nonlinear scattering from the medium is reconstructed line by line by subtracting the responses measured with second and third acquisitions (odd elements and even elements) from the response obtained with all elements transmitting. The proof of concept was performed on a unique sample which has shown that amplitude modulation has a higher detection specificity and a better contrast of the crack than the conventional ultrasound image. The goal of this study is to gain a better knowledge of the capabilities of the amplitude modulation method by determining its sensitivity and robustness compared to the conventional imaging for several stainless steel samples with different grain sizes as well as different crack sizes and orientations.
Influence of geometrical parameters of an acoustic black hole on sound radiation
Authors: Zhao Chenhui , Prasad Marehalli
Published: June 2017

Vibration and noise control of mechanical structures play an important role in the design of many industrial systems. Recently, Acoustic Black Hole (ABH), a new passive structural modification approach to control vibration and noise from mechanical structures has been developed and studied. An ABH is usually a power-law taper profile due to which the wave velocity gradually reduces to zero. Also, the vibration energy is concentrated at the locations of ABH due to the reduction of wavelength. The exponent and parameter of the power-law curve define the geometry of an ABH. This paper presents an investigation of the influence of the geometry of ABH on the sound radiation from vibrating structures. This paper presents both numerical and experimental work on the on the near field sound radiation from vibrating cantilever beams containing ABH.
Where not to install a reverberation enhancement system
Authors: Griesinger David H.
Published: June 2017

For hundreds (perhaps thousands) of years venues for live performance emphasized communication—the transfer of speech or musical information from performers to listeners—as paramount to success. The Greeks could perform drama to 15,000 listeners without microphones, and halls used by Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven were small and dry. Wagner built a fan-shaped opera hall with an absorbent stage, a covered pit, and no lateral reflections. It is still considered perhaps the best in the world. Sabine and others made lecture and Vaudeville halls that worked. But in the 20th century suddenly early reflections were essential, and long reverberation times desirable. Wood stages and lateral reflections were mandatory. These ideas linger on. In this talk we share our experiences of often misguided attempts to improve sound in venues of all types. The lessons we learned from a few perceptive musicians and artists have changed our approach to acoustics. Attention is the key, not reverberation. Reverberation can be lovely if it enhances a listening experience, but it must not muddle the performance. There are ways to get it right, but doing so requires the right system, careful adjustment, and close attention to the natural acoustics of the venue.
The research on the optimal bionic waveform design
Authors: Cang Siyuan , Sheng Xueli , LI SONGHAI , Sun Jintao , Guo Longxiang , Yin Jingwei
Published: June 2017

In this paper, the authors address the design of optimal waveform for target detection and parameter estimation based on the features analysis of the whistle of Indo-pacific humpback dolphins. A set of types of waveforms exist in the sequence of whistle calls. Considering the perfect performance of non-linear frequency modulated and multi-harmonics structure in anti-range sidelobe and anti-reverberation, several fusion schemes of several kinds of waveforms are explored and fusion results are studied analytically and from simulation. It is concluded that the bionic harmonic fused signal shows good time resolution, and improve the performance of suppressing reverberation. Research result provides nice reference and application value in underwater sonar based on bionic acoustic signal.
An uncertainty analysis of propagated sound from an array of marine hydrokinetic devices
Authors: Hafla Erin C. , Johnson Erick , Roberts Jesse
Published: June 2017

Marine hydrokinetic (MHK) devices provide an alternate energy source from tidal, current, and wave motion; however, these devices introduce anthropogenic noise in the marine ecosystem and must meet regulatory guidelines. Paracousti is a 3D finite-difference, time-domain solution to the governing velocity-pressure equations and is used to predict the propagation of sound from an array of MHK sources in any environment. This solution allows for multiple sources, each with unique sound profiles, and for spatially varying sound speeds, bathymetry, and soil composition. However, fluctuations in the hydrodynamic field will introduce operational uncertainties for the sound profiles of the MHK devices, which may not be captured through idealized sound profiles. Preliminary results for a single device in a Pekeris waveguide indicate differences in broadband sound pressure levels of 25 and 60 dB re 1μPa for peak amplitudes and frequencies of 1-20 m, 150 Hz and 1 m, 50-300 Hz, respectively. A Monte Carlo approach is presented for an array of sources to further characterize the range of uncertainties associated with variations in source amplitude and frequency. It is demonstrated that the idealized, deterministic solution, vastly underestimates the compounding uncertainty on the final sound field.
Observer-feedback control based acoustic homing beacon for autonomous underwater vehicles
Authors: Bogdan Caitlin , Andersson Sean , McDaniel James G.
Published: June 2017

One of the visions for Acoustically enabled Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) is a fleet of these vehicles to be held on a ship, deployed for a specific mission and then recovered by the ship. A component of this mission is finding the ship after deployment to be recovered, since both the ship and AUVs have probably drifted from their original locations and intended deployments. While many vehicles can surface, utilize radio and GPS to relocate the ship and navigate towards it, the method presented allows the ship to be found by deploying an acoustic beacon, while the AUVs utilize an observer system to navigate towards the ship. The spatial decay of spreading sound waves provides a spatially dependent variable for the AUV to measure. Then, utilizing a linear model of the dynamics, a linear observer is constructed. The absolute value of the sound pressure readings are fit to a spatial decay model, which is then linearized to form the observer equation. By tuning the observer gain, the AUV can directly feed its observations of the sound field into the observer algorithm and generate navigation controls which will allow it to find the beacon. [Sponsored by the Raytheon Advanced Studies Fellowship.]
Effect of taper angle on the performance of jet pumps for a loop-structured thermoacoustic engine
Authors: Feng Ye , Tang Ke , Jin Tao
Published: June 2017

Gedeon streaming, which circulates throughout the loop configuration with a time-averaged manner in the oscillating flow, can considerably deteriorate the efficiency of traveling-wave thermoacoustic engine. A jet pump is characterized by a tapered channel with different opening areas, which can produce a time-averaged pressure drop to suppress Gedeon streaming. Three jet pumps with different taper angles, i.e., 5°, 9°, 15°, are studied. Following Iguchi's hypothesis, the turbulent oscillating flow can be considered as a steady flow. The flow structures though the jet pumps are numerically simulated. Meanwhile, an experimental apparatus has been built to measure the performance of jet pump operating in the turbulent oscillating flow. The results show that the simulation is in a good agreement with the experiment data for the jet pumps with small taper angles. For the jet pump with 15° taper angle, the simulation results match well with the experiment data when the velocity at small opening of jet pump is higher than 50 m/s. However, when the velocity is lower, the simulation results deviate from the experiment data considerably, which can be attributed to the flow separation in the diverging direction operated differently in the steady flow and oscillating flow at lower velocity.
Source depth discrimination using the array invariant
Authors: Emmetiere Rémi , Bonnel Julien , Gehant Pernot Marie , Chonavel Thierry
Published: June 2017

In this study, low frequency (0-500 Hz) source depth discrimination in deep water is investigated using a horizontal line array (HLA). In this context, propagation is dispersive and can be described by modal theory. Array invariant theory is known to allow source ranging via the modal beam-time migration pattern. This pattern is defined by the evolution of a conventional beamformer output over time. Recently, it has been shown that the array invariant and the waveguide invariant are intrinsically related. In other words, the beam-time migration pattern can be derived using waveguide invariant theory. Utilizing this dependence, we pursue the link between the two invariants to perform source depth discrimination using a HLA. Since the waveguide invariant distribution is strongly related to source depth, the beam-time migration pattern also depends on source depth and would allow for source depth discrimination to be achieved. The proposed method is successfully applied on simulated data. As the classical array invariant method, it is restricted to short signals, away from the array broadside, but it could be used with minimal environmental knowledge in a multisource context.
Two reduced-order approaches for characterizing the acoustic output of high-power medical ultrasound transducers
Authors: Khokhlova Vera , Yuldashev Petr , Maxwell Adam D. , Rosnitskiy Pavel , Mezdrokhin Ilya , Sapozhnikov Oleg , Bailey Michael , Kreider Wayne
Published: June 2017

An approach that combines numerical modeling with measurements is gaining acceptance for field characterization in medical ultrasound. The general method is suitable for accurate simulation of the fields radiated by therapeutic transducers in both water and tissue. Here, three characterization methods are compared. Simulations based on the 3D Westervelt equation with a boundary condition determined from acoustic holography measurements are used as the most accurate benchmark method. Two simplified methods are based on an axially symmetric nonlinear parabolic formulation, either the KZK equation or its wide-angle extension. Various approaches for setting a boundary condition to the parabolic models are presented and discussed. Simulation results obtained with the proposed methods are compared for a typical therapeutic array and a strongly focused single-element transducer, with validation measurements recorded by a fiber optic hydrophone at the focus at increasing acoustic outputs. It is shown that the wide-angle parabolic model is more accurate than the KZK model in governing diffraction effects in the nearfields of the focused beams. However, both methods give accurate results in the focal zone, even at very high outputs when shocks are present. [Work supported by and RSF 14-12-00974, P01 DK043881, NIH EB7643, and NSBRI through NASA 9-58.]
Using a flipped-classroom to teach shock and vibration in naval systems
Authors: Barnard Andrew R.
Published: June 2017

A new course, Shock and Vibration, was taught at Michigan Technological University in the spring of 2017. The senior elective course in mechanical engineering was designed to give students insight into shock and vibration problems, with specific applications in naval and marine systems. The course design used a flipped-classroom approach exclusively, meaning the students watched recorded lectures prior to each class session and in-class time was used for group problem solving, quizzes, demonstrations, and discussions. A laboratory session was also included in the course. This talk will give a brief overview of the course material, cover the pros and cons of the flipped-classroom, and provide some pointers from a first-timer’s perspective.
Modeling listening performance with decision forests
Authors: Mobley Frank S.
Published: June 2017

Human audibility measurements of rotary-wing aircraft in a series of real auditory ambient environments is compared with output from a random decision forest machine learning algorithm. A model of human audition in different acoustic environments is built on an error function, but the coefficients of the error function must be determined with detailed human subject data. A random decision forest is constructed from a large set of existing human detection data to test the algorithm’s ability to generate human surrogate data. The forest algorithm is shown to reproduce predictions of the human response for the test ambient data in all cases with R2 of 0.9 or greater. It produces results at a rate of 6 to 20 minutes per prediction, depending upon the number of calculations, which is significantly faster than collecting results using human testing.
A formulation for elastodynamic scattering based on boundary algebraic equations
Authors: Poblet-Puig Jordi , Shanin Andrey V.
Published: June 2017

The solution of the elastodynamic problem arises in many scientific fields such as the wave propagation in the ground, non-destructive testing, the vibration design of buildings or vibroacoustics in general. We present here an integral formulation based on the boundary algebraic equations. It leads to a boundary numerical method and has the important advantage that no contour (2D) or surface (3D) integrals need to be computed. This is very helpful in order to use combined field integral equations (numerical damping of fictitious eigenfrequencies) without the problems caused by the evaluation of hypersingular integrals. The key aspects are: (i) the approach deals with discrete equations from the very beginning; (ii) discrete (instead of continuous) tensor Green’s functions are considered (the methodology to evaluate them is shown); (iii) the boundary must be described by means of a regular square grid. In order to overcome the drawback of this third condition the boundary integral is coupled, if needed, with a thin layer of finite elements. This improves the description of curved geometries and reduces numerical errors. The method is applied to the scattering of waves by objects and holes in an unbounded elastic medium and to the solution of interior elastic problems
Noncircular Chainrings Do Not Influence Maximum Cycling Power
Authors: Leong Chee-Hoi , Elmer Steven J. , Martin James C.
Published: June 2017

Noncircular chainrings could increase cycling power by prolonging the powerful leg extension/flexion phases, and curtailing the low-power transition phases. We compared maximal cycling power-pedaling rate relationships, and joint-specific kinematics and powers across 3 chainring eccentricities (CON = 1.0; LOWecc = 1.13; HIGHecc = 1.24). Part I: Thirteen cyclists performed maximal inertial-load cycling under 3 chainring conditions. Maximum cycling power and optimal pedaling rate were determined. Part II: Ten cyclists performed maximal isokinetic cycling (120 rpm) under the same 3 chainring conditions. Pedal and joint-specific powers were determined using pedal forces and limb kinematics. Neither maximal cycling power nor optimal pedaling rate differed across chainring conditions (all p > .05). Peak ankle angular velocity for HIGHecc was less than CON (p < .05), while knee and hip angular velocities were unaffected. Self-selected ankle joint-center trajectory was more eccentric than HIGHecc with an opposite orientation that increased velocity during extension/flexion and reduced velocity during transitions. Joint-specific powers did not differ across chainring conditions, with a small increase in power absorbed during ankle dorsiflexion with HIGHecc. Multiple degrees of freedom in the leg, crank, and pedal system allowed cyclists to manipulate ankle angular velocity to maintain their preferred knee and hip actions, suggesting maximizing extension/flexion and minimizing transition phases may be counterproductive for maximal power.
A Comparison of Both Motorized and Nonmotorized Treadmill Gait Kinematics to Overground Locomotion
Authors: Fullenkamp Adam M. , Tolusso Danilo V. , Laurent C. Matthew , Campbell Brian M. , Cripps Andrea E.
Published: June 2017

Context: Motorized treadmills (MTs) present an altered motor task compared to overground (OG) locomotion in that MT belt surfaces are motor-driven, whereas individuals walking/running OG must propel themselves. A possible solution may lie with novel nonmotorized treadmill (NMT) devices as the belt surface is propelled by the user. Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare gait performance during both MT and NMT locomotion to OG. Design: Crossover study. Setting: A university research laboratory. Patients: A total of 20 healthy adults (10 women) participated in the study. Intervention: Each participant performed self-selected walking and running OG, and on both an MT and NMT. Main Outcome Measure: Shoulder, trunk, and lower-extremity kinematics were analyzed for each treadmill condition and compared to OG. Results: The analyses demonstrated that there were no differences between MT and OG gait kinematics during either walking or running. However, NMT gait showed increased hip, knee, and ankle flexions in late swing and early stance compared to OG during both walking and running. For example, during walking, the NMT elicited hip-, knee-, and ankle-flexion/extension angles of 34.7°, 8.0°, and 3.6° at foot strike compared to 24.8°, −3.1°, and −5.8° in the OG condition (P < .05). There was also a significant reduction in trunk-flexion/extension range of motion during running compared to OG (7.7° in NMT vs 9.8° in OG). Conclusions: These differences may have implications for both training and rehabilitation on an NMT. Future studies should consider the influence of NMT familiarization on gait performance and should emphasize the assessment of neuromuscular performance.
College Athletes With Ankle Sprain History Exhibit Greater Fear-Avoidance Beliefs
Authors: Houston Megan N. , Hoch Johanna M. , Hoch Matthew C.
Published: June 2017

Context: Postinjury, college athletes have reported elevated levels of fear. However, it is unclear how a history of ankle sprain impacts injury-related fear. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine if Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire (FABQ) scores differ between college athletes with a history of a single ankle sprain, those with recurrent ankle sprains, and healthy controls. Design: Cross-sectional design. Setting: National Collegiate Athletic Association institutions. Patients: From a large database of college athletes, 75 participants with a history of a single ankle sprain, 44 with a history of recurrent ankle sprains (≥2), and 28 controls with no injury history were included. Main Outcome Measures: Participants completed an injury history questionnaire and the FABQ. On the injury history form, the participants were asked to indicate if they had ever sustained an ankle sprain and, if yes, to describe how many. FABQ scores ranged from 0 to 66 with higher scores representing greater fear. Results: Athletes with a history of recurrent ankle sprains (median, 28.00; interquartile range, 18.25–38.00) reported higher levels of fear than those with a history of a single ankle sprain (21.00; 8.00–31.00; P = .03; effect size = 0.199) and healthy controls (5.50; 0.00–25.00; P < .001; effect size = 0.431). Athletes with a history of a single sprain reported greater fear than healthy controls (P = .01, effect size = 0.267). Athletes with a history of a single sprain reported greater fear than healthy controls (P = .02, effect size = 0.23). Conclusions: College athletes with a history of ankle sprain exhibited greater levels of fear on the FABQ than healthy controls. These findings suggest that ankle sprains in general may increase injury-related fear and that those with a history of recurrent sprains are more vulnerable.
Exercise for Bone in Childhood—Hitting the Sweet Spot
Authors: Beck Belinda R.
Published: June 2017

Purpose: The goal of the current work is to challenge the enduring notion that prepuberty is the optimum timing for maximum bone response to exercise in childhood and to present the evidence that early puberty is a more potently receptive period. Method: The relevant literature is reviewed and the causes of the misconception are addressed in detail. Results: Contrary to prevailing opinion, ample evidence exists to suggest that the peripubertal years represent the developmental period during which bone is likely to respond most robustly to exercise intervention. Conclusion: Public health initiatives that target bone-specific exercise interventions during the pubertal years are likely to be the most effective strategy to harness the increased receptiveness of the growing skeleton to mechanical loading.
Realization of Fractional-Order Double-Scroll Chaotic System Using Operational Transconductance Amplifier (OTA)
Authors: Dar Mohammad Rafiq , Kant Nasir Ali , Khanday Farooq Ahmad
Published: June 2017

Realization of fractional-order double-scroll chaotic system using Operational Transconductance Amplifiers (OTAs) as active elements are presented in this paper. The fractional-order double-scroll chaotic system has been studied before as well using passive RC-ladder and tree-based structures but in this paper the requisite fractional-order integration has been accomplished through an integer-order multiple-feedback topology. As compared to double or multiple scroll chaotic systems existing in the open literature, the proposed realization offers the advantages of (a) low-voltage implementation, (b) integrablity as the design is resistor- and inductor-less and only grounded components have been employed in the design, and, (c) electronic tunability of the fractional order, time-constants and gain factors. In order to demonstrate the usefulness of the chaotic system, a simple secure message communication system has been designed and verified for its operation. The theoretical predictions of the proposed implementations have been verified by using 0.35[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) process file provided by Austrian Micro System (AMS).
A Distributed Network Alarm Correlation Analysis Mechanism for Heterogeneous Networks
Authors: He Qingsu , Zhou Wenting , Xu Hongfei , Cui Limin , Li Xuemei , Liu Jiayi
Published: June 2017

The current China State Grid network consists of a set of heterogeneous and distributed networks. In such a heterogeneous environment, it is a challenging task to provide efficient network alarm management, and further to analyze the correlation of alarms. Thus, an efficient and distributed network alarm analysis scheme is becoming necessary and indispensable. To this end, we have attached our emphasis on two aspects of the aforementioned problem and proposed the corresponding algorithms, respectively. Firstly, we introduced an intra-network alarm treatment process to manage the heterogeneous network alarms. Especially, we leverage on the fuzzy clustering method and fuse alarms within the same cluster into comprehensive alarms by utilizing the Dempster–Shafer theory. Secondly, we proposed an inter-network alarm analysis process to mine the correlation rules of alarms through a distributed scheme based on the Frequent Pattern-Growth (FP-Growth) association rule mining algorithm. Compared with the traditional centralized scheme and another Apriori-based distributed algorithm, our proposed scheme has a higher time efficiency for the effective management of network alarms. With the aid of such a two-step network alarm management scheme, it is easy for the network management system to make a better management of alarms in heterogeneous and distributed networks.
A Codec Architecture for the Compression of Short Data Blocks
Authors: Freudenberger Jürgen , Rajab Mohammed , Rohweder Daniel , Safieh Malek
Published: June 2017

This work proposes a lossless data compression algorithm for short data blocks. The proposed compression scheme combines a modified move-to-front algorithm with Huffman coding. This algorithm is applicable in storage systems where the data compression is performed on block level with short block sizes, in particular, in non-volatile memories. For block sizes in the range of 1[Formula: see text]kB, it provides a compression gain comparable to the Lempel–Ziv–Welch algorithm. Moreover, encoder and decoder architectures are proposed that have low memory requirements and provide fast data encoding and decoding.
HYDROPHOBIC SURFACE MODIFICATION OF SILK FABRIC USING PLASMA-POLYMERIZED HMDSO
Authors: RANI K. VINISHA , CHANDWANI NISHA , KIKANI PURVI , NEMA S. K. , SARMA ARUN KUMAR , SARMA BORNALI
Published: June 2017

In this work, we study the hydrophobic properties of silk fabrics by deposition of plasma-polymerized (pp) hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) using low-pressure plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. Recently, hydrophobic properties are under active research in textile industry. The effects of coating time and power on the HMDSO-coated silk fabrics are investigated. Water contact angle of pp-HMDSO-coated silk fabric surface is measured as a function of power and coating time. Fabric surface shows an enhancement in hydrophobicity after coating. Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy reveals the surface chemistry, and scanning electron microscopy shows the surface morphology of the uncoated and HMDSO-coated fabrics, respectively. In the case of uncoated fabric, water droplet absorbs swiftly, whereas in the case of HMDSO-coated fabric, water droplet remains on the fabric surface with a maximum contact angle of 140[Formula: see text]. The HMDSO-deposited silk surface is found to be durable after detergent washing. Common stains such as ink, tea, milk, turmeric and orange juice are tested on the surface of both fabrics. In HMDSO-coated fabrics, all the stains are bedded like ball droplet. In order to study the self-cleaning property, the fabric is tilted to 45[Formula: see text] angle; stain droplets easily roll off from the fabric.
HDMR-Based Model Update in Structural Damage Identification
Authors: Naveen B. O. , Balu A. S.
Published: June 2017

This paper presents a practical approach of model updating based on high-dimensional model representation (HDMR). The proposed methodology involves integrated finite element modeling, obtaining explicit relationships between the structural responses and parameters using HDMR and minimization of objective function developed using structural responses obtained from HDMR approximation functions using genetic algorithm. First, the efficiency of the proposed method is demonstrated by considering a simply supported beam example. Later model updating of an existing bridge is considered to check the adequacy of the proposed method.
Evaluation of Complication Rates after Breast Surgery Using Acellular Dermal Matrix: Median Follow-Up of Three Years
Authors: Paprottka Felix J. , Krezdorn Nicco , Sorg Heiko , Könneker Sören , Bontikous Stiliano , Robertson Ian , Schlett Christopher L. , Dohse Nils-Kristian , Hebebrand Detlev
Published: June 2017

Introduction. Acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) are now commonly used for breast reconstruction surgery. There are various products available: ADMs derived from human (HADM), porcine (PADM), or bovine (BADM) sources. Detailed long-term follow-up studies are necessary to detect differences in complication rates between these products. Material and Methods. From 2010 to 2015, forty-one patients underwent 52 ADM-breast reconstructions in our clinic, including oncologic breast reconstructions and breast augmentation revisions (n=52). 15x HADMs (Epiflex®/DIZG), 21x PADMs (Strattice®/LifeCell), and 16x BADMs (Tutomesh®/RTI Surgical) were implanted. Retrospective data collection with median follow-up of 36 months (range: 12–54 months) was performed. Results. Overall complication rate was 17% after ADM implantation (HADM: 7%; PADM: 14%; BADM: 31%). In a composite endpoint of complications and Red Breast Syndrome, a lower event probability was observed between BADMs, PADMs, and HADMs (44%, 19%, and 7%, resp.; p=0.01 for the trend). Furthermore, capsular contracture occurred in 6%, more frequently as compared to the current literature. Conclusions. When ADM-based reconstruction is indicated, the authors suggest primarily the use of HADMs and secondary the use of PADMs. It is shown that BADMs have the highest complication probability within our patient cohort; nevertheless, BADMs convey physical advantages in terms of flexibility and better aesthetic outcomes. The indication for the use of ADMs should be filled for each case individually.
Fish Oil Feeding Modulates the Expression of Hepatic MicroRNAs in a Western-Style Diet-Induced Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Rat Model
Authors: Wang Hualin , Shao Yang , Yuan Fahu , Feng Han , Li Na , Zhang Hongyu , Wu Chaodong , Liu Zhiguo
Published: June 2017

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most prevalent chronic liver diseases worldwide. Recent studies have indicated that fish oil supplementation has benefits against NAFLD. Our previous transcriptomic study has validated the effect of fish oil supplementation on altering hepatic gene expression in a NAFLD rat model. In the current study, we examined the effects of fish oil on the expression of hepatic microRNAs. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were fed with a lab chow (CON), high-fat high-cholesterol diet (WD), or WD supplemented with fish oil (FOH), respectively. Small RNAs were extracted from livers for RNA-sequencing. A total of 79 miRNAs were identified as differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) between FOH and WD groups, exemplified by rno-miR-29c-3p, rno-miR-30d-5p, rno-miR-33-5p, rno-miR-34a, and rno-miR-328a-3p. Functional annotation of DEMs predicted target genes suggested that the altered hepatic miRNAs contributed to fish oil modification of hepatic lipid metabolism and signaling transduction. Integrative analysis of DEMs and differentially expressed genes suggested that the expression difference of Pcsk9, Insig2, Per3, and Socs1/3 between FOH and WD groups may be due to miRNA modification. Our study reveals that fish oil supplementation alters hepatic expression of miRNAs, which may contribute to fish oil amelioration of NAFLD in rats.
Japan’s 2014 Strategic Energy Plan: A Planned Energy System Transition
Authors: Kucharski Jeffrey B. , Unesaki Hironobu
Published: June 2017

This study is a review and analysis of the Japanese government’s 2014 Strategic Energy Plan (SEP). As the first plan to be issued after the Fukushima disaster of March 2011, the 2014 plan incorporates policies that represent the most comprehensive and systematic changes ever proposed for Japan’s energy system. The study reviews the key elements of the plan, employing a framework that explains the nature and magnitude of the changes planned for Japan’s energy system and related institutions. The analysis demonstrates that the shock of the triple disaster opened up a window of opportunity in Japan’s policy environment for a fundamental change in energy policy, allowing for major reforms to the energy industrial structure and energy institutions. A unique aspect of this study is that it draws upon in-person interviews conducted with key government officials who were directly involved in the formulation of the SEP, providing new insights into Japan’s energy policy planning process and the drivers behind the planned reforms. Given the nature and magnitude of the potential changes implied in the SEP, this paper concludes that the 2014 SEP is best understood as a comprehensive blueprint toward a major planned transition of the Japanese energy system.
Expression and Function of Granzymes A and B inEscherichia coliPeritonitis and Sepsis
Authors: García-Laorden M. Isabel , Stroo Ingrid , Terpstra Sanne , Florquin Sandrine , Medema Jan Paul , van´t Veer Cornelis , de Vos Alex F. , van der Poll Tom
Published: June 2017

Escherichia(E.)coliis the most common causative pathogen in peritonitis, the second most common cause of sepsis. Granzymes (gzms) are serine proteases traditionally implicated in cytotoxicity and, more recently, in the inflammatory response. We here sought to investigate the role of gzms in the host response toE. coli-induced peritonitis and sepsis in vivo. For this purpose, we used a murine model ofE. coliintraperitoneal infection, resembling the clinical condition commonly associated with septic peritonitis by this bacterium, in wild-type and gzmA-deficient (gzmA−/−),gzmB−/−, andgzmAxB−/−mice. GzmA and gzmB were predominantly expressed by natural killer cells, and during abdominal sepsis, the percentage of these cells expressing gzms in peritoneal lavage fluid decreased, while the amount of expression in the gzm+cells increased. Deficiency of gzmA and/or gzmB was associated with increased bacterial loads, especially in the case of gzmB at the primary site of infection at late stage sepsis. While gzm deficiency did not impact neutrophil recruitment into the abdominal cavity, it was accompanied by enhanced nucleosome release at the primary site of infection, earlier hepatic necrosis, and more renal dysfunction. These results suggest that gzms influence bacterial growth and the host inflammatory response during abdominal sepsis caused byE. coli.
Dietary Strategies and Novel Pharmaceutical Approaches Targeting Serum ApoA-I Metabolism: A Systematic Overview
Authors: Smolders Lotte , Plat Jogchum , Mensink Ronald P.
Published: June 2017

The incidence of CHD is still increasing, which underscores the need for new preventive and therapeutic approaches to decrease CHD risk. In this respect, increasing apoA-I concentrations may be a promising approach, especially through increasing apoA-I synthesis. This review first provides insight into current knowledge on apoA-I production, clearance, and degradation, followed by a systematic review of dietary and novel pharmacological approaches to target apoA-I metabolism. For this, a systematic search was performed to identify randomized controlled intervention studies that examined effects of whole foods and (non)nutrients on apoA-I metabolism. In addition, novel pharmacological approaches were searched for, which were specifically developed to target apoA-I metabolism. We conclude that both dietary components and pharmacological approaches can be used to increase apoA-I concentrations or functionality. For the dietary components in particular, more knowledge about the underlying mechanisms is necessary, as increasing apoA-I per se does not necessarily translate into a reduced CHD risk.
Reliability of the NICMAN Scale: An Instrument to Assess the Quality of Acupuncture Administered in Clinical Trials
Authors: Smith Caroline A. , Zaslawski Christopher J. , Cochrane Suzanne , Zhu Xiaoshu , Zheng Zhen , Loyeung Bertrand , Meier Peter C. , Walsh Sean , Xue Charlie Changli , Zhang Anthony L. , Fahey Paul P. , Bensoussan Alan
Published: June 2017

Background. The aim of this study was to examine the reliability of a scale to assess the methodological quality of acupuncture administered in clinical research. Methods. We invited 36 acupuncture researchers and postgraduate students to participate in the study. Firstly, participants rated two articles using the scale. Following this initial stage, modifications were made to scale items and the exercise was repeated. Interrater reliability was assessed for individual items using the Fleiss kappa statistic, whilst the overall scale used the intraclass correlation coefficient statistic. A threshold agreement of ≥0.61 was acceptable. Results. We received 26 responses and a 72% response rate. The first phase of testing found moderate reliability with intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.46 and 0.55 for the articles. The interrater reliability of the scales varied between and within the researchers (0.35, 0.60) and was more consistent with the postgraduate students (0.54, 0.54). Five items on the scale scored below the threshold and were revised for further testing. In this phase the intraclass correlation coefficient demonstrated variability between articles but improved to achieve reliability above the agreed threshold. Conclusion. This study provides evidence of the reliability of the NICMAN scale although improvements to a small number of items remain.
Chemical Composition and Cytotoxic and Antibacterial Activities of the Essential Oil of Aloysia citriodora Palau Grown in Morocco
Authors: Oukerrou Moulay Ali , Tilaoui Mounir , Mouse Hassan Ait , Leouifoudi Inass , Jaafari Abdeslam , Zyad Abdelmajid
Published: June 2017

The aim of this work is to investigate the in vitro cytotoxic and antibacterial effects of the essential oils of Aloysia citriodora Palau, harvested in different regions of Morocco. The chemical profile was established using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. The cytotoxic activity against P815, MCF7, and VERO cell lines as well as the normal human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was evaluated using the MTT assay. Standard, ATCC, strains of bacteria (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) were cultivated in Muller Hinton media. Then, agar disc diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs), and minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) were determined using microdilution method. The essential oils obtained were predominantly composed of β-spathulenol (15.61%), Ar-curcumene (14.15%), trans-caryophyllene oxide (14.14%), and neral (10.02%). The results of the assays showed that the cytotoxic effect of the essential oil of A. citriodora was high on P815 and moderate on MCF7 and on VERO cell lines. However, no cytotoxic effect was observed on PBMCs. On the other hand, essential oils showed a significant antimicrobial activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. MICs ranged between 2.84 and 8.37 mg/ml. Essential oil of A. citriodora leaves possesses significant antibacterial effect and cytotoxic activity against tumor cell lines.
Temperature Dependence of Thermophysical Properties of Full-Scale Corium of Fast Energy Reactor
Authors: Skakov Mazhyn K. , Mukhamedov Nurzhan Ye. , Vurim Alexander D. , Deryavko Ilya I.
Published: June 2017

For the first time the paper determines thermophysical properties (specific heat capacity, thermal diffusivity, and heat conductivity) of the full-scale corium of the fast energy nuclear reactor within the temperature range from ~30°С to ~400°С. Obtained data are to be used in temperature fields calculations during modeling the processes of corium melt retention inside of the fast reactor vessel.
Influence of Critical Flow Rates on Characteristics of Enforced and Shear Flows in Circular Convergent-Divergent Channels
Authors: Savin Leonid A. , Kornaev Alexey V. , Kornaeva Elena P.
Published: June 2017

Analysis of the reasons of critical flow rate occurrence in hydraulic tracts of cryogenic machines has been carried out. Theoretical expressions have been derived to calculate critical velocities in a boiling multiphase medium. Applied to hybrid fluid-film bearings with throttles for lubricant supply, a mathematical model has been developed to calculate pressure distribution and hydrodynamic reaction forces of a lubricant considering the influence of steam content and critical flows in throttle devices. Numerical results of phase state and load capacity calculations of a hybrid fluid-film bearing under lubricant’s critical flow rates condition have been presented.
Progress in Bacillus subtilis Spore Surface Display Technology towards Environment, Vaccine Development, and Biocatalysis
Authors: Chen Huayou , Ullah Jawad , Jia Jinru
Published: June 2017

Spore surface display is the most desirable with enhanced effects, low cost, less time consuming and the most promising technology for environmental, medical, and industrial development. Spores have various applications in industry due to their ability to survive in harsh industrial processes including heat resistance, alkaline tolerance, chemical tolerance, easy recovery, and reusability. Yeast and bacteria, including gram-positive and -negative, are the most frequently used organisms for the display of various proteins (eukaryotic and prokaryotic), but unlike spores, they can rupture easily due to nutritive properties, susceptibility to heat, pH, and chemicals. Hence, spores are the best choice to avoid these problems, and they have various applications over nonspore formers due to amenability for laboratory purposes. Various strains of Clostridium and Bacillus are spore formers, but the most suitable choice for display is Bacillus subtilis because, according to the WHO, it is safe to humans and considered as “GRAS” (generally recognized as safe). This review focuses on the application of spore surface display towards industries, vaccine development, the environment, and peptide library construction, with cell surface display for enhanced protein expression and high enzymatic activity. Different vectors, coat proteins, and statistical analyses can be used for linker selection to obtain greater expression and high activity of the displayed protein.
A Nationwide Study of Stereotactic Radiosurgery in a Newly Diagnosed Spine Metastasis Population
Authors: Sohn Seil , Kim Jinhee , Chung Chun Kee , Lee Na Rae , Chang Ung-Kyu , Sohn Moon Jun
Published: June 2017

Background: Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), a technique that is emerging as a new treatment option, has been reported to be an effective, noninvasive treatment for spine metastasis patients. Objective: This nationwide study aimed to understand the current state of SRS for spine metastasis. Methods: Patients in this study were first diagnosed with a metastatic spine tumor between 1 July and 31 December 2011. One group (the SRS group) received SRS at least once within 1 year of diagnosis and the other (the non-SRS group) did not receive SRS. We analyzed the characteristics, medication, and survival of each group. Results: In 628 new patients, there were no significant differences between groups regarding gender, age, type of health insurance, and comorbidities. There were significant differences with regard to the medical costs (USD 23,276 vs. 18,458; p = 0.001) and the duration of hospital stay (101.3 vs. 86.5 days; p = 0.023). Median survival was significantly longer in the SRS group (p = 0.003). Conclusions: There was no significant pretreatment baseline demographic difference between the SRS and the non-SRS group. There was a tendency for greater use of medication in the SRS group. Patients with a longer overall survival tended to be those who underwent SRS treatment.
Telehealth Management of Parkinson’s Disease Using Wearable Sensors: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Heldman Dustin A. , Harris Denzil A. , Felong Timothy , Andrzejewski Kelly L. , Dorsey E. Ray , Giuffrida Joseph P. , Goldberg Barry , Burack Michelle A.
Published: June 2017

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) motor symptoms can fluctuate and may not be accurately reflected during a clinical evaluation. In addition, access to movement disorder specialists is limited for many people with PD. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of motion sensor-based telehealth diagnostics on PD clinical care and management. Methods: Eighteen adults with PD were randomized to control or experimental groups. All participants were instructed to use a motion sensor-based monitoring system at home 1 day per week for 7 months. The system included a finger-worn motion sensor and tablet-based software interface that guided patients through tasks to quantify tremor, bradykinesia, and dyskinesia. Data were processed into motor symptom severity reports, which were reviewed by a movement disorder neurologist for the experimental group participants. After 3 months and 6 months, the control group participants visited the clinic for a routine appointment, while the experimental group participants had a videoconference or phone call instead. Results: Home-based assessments were completed with a median compliance of 95.7%. For a subset of participants, the neurologist successfully used information in the reports, such as quantified responses to treatment or progression over time, to make therapy adjustments. Changes in clinical characteristics from study start to end were not significantly different between the groups. Discussion: Individuals with PD were able and willing to use remote monitoring technology. Patient management aided by telehealth diagnostics provided comparable outcomes to standard care. Telehealth technologies combined with wearable sensors have the potential to improve care for disparate PD populations or those unable to travel.