bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Directional-Permeability Assessment in Formations With Complex Pore Geometry With a New Nuclear-Magnetic-Resonance-Based Permeability Model
Authors: Chi Lu , Heidari Zoya
Published: February 2016

This paper proposes a new method for directional-permeability assessment with nuclear-magnetic-resonance (NMR) measurements. Conventional techniques for permeability assessment from NMR measurements include empirical correlations such as SDR (Schlumberger-Doll-Research) and Coates models. However, carbonate rocks are known for lack of good correlations between pore-body-size and pore-throat-size, which makes it challenging and often unreliable to estimate permeability from NMR T2 (spin-spin relaxation time) distribution in carbonate formations with complex pore structure. It also was proposed that conventional permeability models can be improved by incorporating an estimated pore-connectivity factor. However, none of the previously introduced techniques reflects the anisotropic characteristics of rock permeability.

The new NMR-based directional-permeability model, introduced in this paper, incorporates a directional pore-connectivity factor into a conventional NMR-based permeability model. We introduce two approaches to quantify the directional pore-network connectivity of rock samples with pore-scale images. The first approach calculates directional pore connectivity in 3D pore-scale images with a topological technique. The second approach combines image analysis and electrical formation factor. The new NMR-based permeability model enables assessment of rock permeability in any desired direction.

We successfully calibrated and tested the introduced NMR-based permeability model on carbonate, sandstone, and sandpack samples with complex pore geometry or anisotropic permeability. The anisotropic permeability used for calibration and test purposes was obtained by the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) simulations on microcomputed tomography (CT) images of rock samples. The comparison between the permeability estimates with our new NMR model and conventional NMR models (e.g., SDR and Coates models) demonstrated that the NMR-based directional-permeability model significantly improves assessment of rock permeability, by reflecting rock's anisotropic characteristics and minimizing calibration efforts. The outcomes of this research can significantly improve permeability assessment in complex carbonate reservoirs and anisotropic sandstone reservoirs, and can be extended further to organic-rich mudrock formations.
Acceptability of Couples’ Voluntary HIV Testing Among HIV-infected Patients in Care and Their HIV-negative Partners in the United States
Authors: Wall Kristin M. , Canary Lauren , Workowski Kimberly , Lockard Annie , Jones Jeb , Sullivan Patrick , Hills Katherine , Fofana Kadija , Stephenson Rob , Allen Susan
Published: February 2016

Introduction:

Couples’ voluntary HIV counseling and testing (CHTC) is an HIV risk reduction strategy not widely available in the US.

Methods:

We assessed willingness to participate in CHTC among US HIV-infected clinic patients via tablet-based survey and among HIV-negative persons with HIV-infected partners in care via mixed-method phone interviews.

Results:

Most of the N=64 HIV-infected partners surveyed were men (89%), on antiretroviral treatment (ART) (92%), and many self-identified homosexual (62%). We observed high levels of willingness to participate in CHTC (64%) among HIV-infected partners.
Reasons for not wanting to participate included perceived lack of need (26%), desire to self-disclose their status (26%), and fear of being asked sensitive questions with their partner present (17%). HIV-infected partners were interested in discussing ART (48%), other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (44%), and relationship agreements like monogamy (31%) during CHTC sessions. All N=15 HIV-negative partners interviewed were men, most identified as homosexual (73%), and about half (54%) reported consistent condom use with HIV-infected partners. We observed high levels of willingness to participate in CHTC (87%) among HIV-negative partners, who were also interested in discussing ART (47%), other STIs (47%), mental health services (40%), and relationship agreements (33%). Most negative partners (93%) indicated that they believed their HIV-infected partner was virally suppressed, but in the event that they
were not, many (73%) were willing to take pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).

Conclusion:

These results indicate that CHTC for serodiscordant couples is acceptable and should emphasize aspects most pertinent to these couples, such as discussion of ART/PrEP, STIs, and relationship agreements.
Airflow in Gravity Sewers – Determination of Wastewater Drag Coefficient
Authors: Bentzen Thomas Ruby , Østertoft Kristian Kilsgaard , Vollertsen Jes , Fuglsang Emil Dietz , Nielsen Asbjørn Haaning
Published: February 2016

Several experiments have been conducted in order to improve the understanding of the wastewater drag and the wall frictional force acting on the headspace air in gravity sewers. The aim of the study is to improve the data basis for a numerical model of natural sewer ventilation. The results of the study shows that by integrating the top/side wall shear stresses the log‐law models for the air velocity distribution along the unwetted perimeter resulted in a good agreement with the friction forces calculated by use of the Colebrook‐White formula for hydraulic smooth pipes. Secondly, the water surface drags were found by log‐law models of the velocity distribution in turbulent flows to fit velocity profiles measured from the water surface and by integrating the water surface drags along the wetted perimeter, mean water surface drags were found and a measure of the water surface drag coefficient was found.
Nighttime BP in Elderly Individuals with Prediabetes/Diabetes with and without CKD: The HEIJO-KYO Study
Authors: Obayashi Kenji , Saeki Keigo , Kurumatani Norio
Published: February 2016

Background

and objectives Although previous studies suggested that nighttime BP is elevated in diabetes mellitus, the association between prediabetes and nighttime BP remains unclear. In addition, the relationship between diabetic status, renal function, and nighttime BP has not been evaluated in large populations.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

In this cross-sectional study, we assessed diabetic status, renal function, and ambulatory BP parameters among 1081 community-dwelling elderly individuals (mean age, 71.8±7.0 years). Participants were classified into six categories based on diabetic status (normoglycemia, prediabetes, or diabetes mellitus) and renal function (normal function or CKD). BP was measured at 30-minute intervals for 48 hours using a validated ambulatory recorder.

Results

The mean nighttime systolic BP (SBP) was 115.7±16.1 mmHg. The multivariable analysis, adjusted for age, sex, smoking status, and daytime SBP, revealed that, compared with participants with normoglycemia but without CKD (n=378), mean nighttime SBP was significantly higher in participants with both prediabetes and CKD (n=93) by 2.9 mmHg (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.2 to 5.6; P=0.03) and in patients with both diabetes mellitus and CKD (n=30) by 7.8 mmHg (95% CI, 3.5 to 12.2; P<0.001) but not in participants with both normoglycemia and CKD (n=75), participants with prediabetes without CKD (n=374), or patients with diabetes mellitus without CKD (n=131). Notably, the multivariable analysis indicated that the interaction terms of diabetic status and renal function were significantly associated with nighttime SBP (P=0.03).

Conclusions

Nighttime SBP was significantly higher in participants with prediabetes and CKD but not in participants with prediabetes without CKD, compared with participants with normoglycemia and without CKD. In addition, a significant interaction effect of diabetic status and renal function on nighttime SBP was detected in a general elderly population.
Effects of diet-induced weight gain and turnout to pasture on insulin sensitivity in moderately insulin resistant horses
Authors: Lindåse Sanna S. , Nostell Katarina E. , Müller Cecilia E. , Jensen-Waern Marianne , Bröjer Johan T.
Published: February 2016

OBJECTIVE To quantify insulin sensitivity and monitor glucose, insulin, and lipid concentrations in a group of moderately insulin-resistant horses during induction of obesity by use of a forage diet supplemented with fat and during subsequent turnout to pasture.

ANIMALS 9 adult Standardbred mares (11 to 20 years old).

PROCEDURES Weight gain of horses was induced during 22 weeks by use of a forage diet supplemented with fat fed in gradually increasing amounts, followed by feeding of that fat-supplemented diet at 2.5 times the daily maintenance requirements. Horses were then turned out to pasture. Insulin sensitivity was measured with the euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp method before and after weight gain and after 4 weeks at pasture. Body weight, body condition score, and cresty neck score as well as fasting and postprandial concentrations of plasma insulin, plasma glucose, serum triglyceride, and serum nonesterified fatty acids were measured during the study.

RESULTS Body weight typically increased by 10%, and body condition score (scale, 1 to 9) increased by > 1.5 from the start to the end of the weight-gain period. There was no difference in insulin sensitivity or metabolic clearance rate of insulin during the weight-gain period. Four weeks at pasture generally improved insulin sensitivity and metabolic clearance rate of insulin by 54% and 32%, respectively, but there was no change in body weight or body condition score.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Findings indicated that dietary composition played a more important role than did short-term weight gain on alterations in insulin sensitivity of horses.
Coactivation During Dynamometry Testing in Adolescents With Spastic Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Eken Maaike M. , Dallmeijer Annet J. , Doorenbosch Caroline A.M. , Dekkers Hurnet , Becher Jules G. , Houdijk Han
Published: February 2016

Background

Dynamometry has been used extensively to measure knee extensor strength in individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). However, increased coactivation can lead to underestimation of knee extensor strength and, therefore, reduce validity of strength measurements. It is yet unknown to what extent coactivation occurs during dynamometry testing and whether coactivation is influenced by severity of CP, load levels, and muscle fatigue.

Objectives

The aims of this study were: (1) to investigate coactivation in adolescents with and without CP during dynamometer tests and (2) to assess the effect of Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level, load level, and muscle fatigue on coactivation.

Design

A cross-sectional observational design was used.

Method

Sixteen adolescents with CP (GMFCS levels I and II: n=10/6; age range=13–19 years) and 15 adolescents without CP (n=15; age range=12–19 years) performed maximal isometric contractions (maximal voluntary torque [MVT]) and a series of submaximal dynamic contractions at low (±65% MVT), medium (±75% MVT), and high (±85% MVT) loads until fatigue. A coactivation index (CAI) was calculated for each contraction from surface electromyography recordings from the quadriceps and hamstring muscles.

Results

Adolescents with CP classified in GMFCS level II showed significantly higher CAI values than adolescents classified in GMFCS level I and those without CP during maximal and submaximal contractions. No differences were observed among load levels. During the series of fatiguing submaximal contractions, CAI remained constant in both the CP group and the group with typical development (TD), except for adolescents with TD at the low-load condition, which showed a significant decrease.

Limitations

Electromyography tracings were normalized to amplitudes during maximal isometric contractions, whereas previous studies suggested that these types of contractions could not be reliably determined in the CP population.

Conclusion

Coactivation was higher in adolescents with CP classified in GMFCS level II than in adolescents with TD and those with CP in GMFCS level I at different load levels. Within all groups, coactivation was independent of load level and fatigue. In individuals with CP, coactivation can lead to an underestimation of agonist muscle strength, which should be taken into account while interpreting the results of both maximal and submaximal dynamometer tests.
Effect of agglomeration and dispersion on the elastic properties of polymer nanocomposites: A Monte Carlo finite element analysis
Authors: Hedia Hassan S. , Aldousari Saad M. , Abdellatif Ahmed K. , Abdelhaffez Gamal S.
Published: February 2016

Owing to their superior mechanical and physical properties, carbon nanotubes (CNT) seem to hold a great promise as an ideal reinforcing material for composites of high-strength and low-density. In most of the experimental results up to date, however, only modest improvements in the strength and stiffness have been achieved by incorporating carbon nanotubes in polymers. In the present paper, the influence of single wall carbon nanotube agglomeration on the effective stiffness is analyzed by using an Eshelby’s inclusion model. Analytical expressions are derived for the effective elastic stiffness of single wall carbon nanotubereinforced composites with the effects of agglomeration. The present study not only provides the important relationship between the effective properties and the morphology of CNT-reinforced composites, but also may be useful for improving and tailoring their mechanical properties. In addition, a multiscale Monte Carlo finite element method (MCFEM) was used for determining mechanical properties of polymer nanocomposites (PNC) that consist of polymers reinforced with single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT). Specifically, the method uses a multiscale homogenization approach to link the structural variability at the nano/micro scales with the local constitutive behavior. Subsequently, the method incorporates a FE scheme to determine the Young’s modulus and Poisson ratio of PNC. The use of the computed properties in macroscale modeling is validated by comparison with experimental tensile test data.
Evaluation of the Diamond Particle Content in Ni-P Nano-Composite Coatings
Authors: Dietrich D. , Eilert A. , Nickel D. , Lampke T.
Published: February 2016

The knowledge of the particle content is essential for the improvement of nano-composites, for instance with respect to mechanical strengthening. However, the demand of evaluating the fraction of nano-diamonds in Ni-P coatings, i. e. nano-sized light element particles in a heavy metal alloy matrix is a crucial task. Results obtained by means of high performance wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and quantitative metallography are compared. On the basis of calculated fractions of incorporated particles as a function of their size and distance, the differing results are discussed. Best confidence has been achieved for composites with a fairly uniform particle distribution providing best features for application as functional materials in any case. The particle fraction can be provided at least as an approximate range regardless of the applied method.
Crack Density Evaluation in Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymers Aged by Thermal Cycling
Authors: González S. , González M. , Dominguez J. , Lasagni F.
Published: February 2016

The use of composite materials is growing over nowadays, not only in the aerospace industry but also in automotive, construction and sailing sectors. Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymers (CFRPs) bring lighter structures but with an impressive mechanical behaviour. Therefore, it seems to be important understanding the different degradation processes, especially matrix cracking and delamination.

The aim of this study is to characterize the degradation of CFRPs because of thermal fatigue in different atmospheres. Due to the lack of inspection contrast, a specific method consisting in tomographic characterization and image processing method has been developed. In this way, a complete quantification of the degradation process, in terms of crack and delamination volume, can be performed.
Iodine-125 seed migration within brain parenchyma after brachytherapy for brain metastasis: case report
Authors: Brahimaj Bledi , Lamba Michael , Breneman John C. , Warnick Ronald E.
Published: February 2016

This case report documents the migration of 3 iodine-125 (125I) seeds from the tumor resection cavity into brain parenchyma over a 7-year period. A 66-year-old woman had a history of metastatic ovarian carcinoma, nickel allergy, and reaction to a titanium hip implant that required reoperation for hardware removal. In this unique case of parenchymal migration, the seed paths seemed to follow white matter tracts, traveling between 18.5 and 35.5 mm from the initial implant site. The patient's initial neurological decline, which was thought to be related to radiation necrosis, appeared to stabilize with medical therapy. She subsequently developed progressive right hemispheric edema that resulted in neurological deterioration and death. Considering her previous reactions to nickel and titanium, the authors now speculate that her later clinical course reflected an allergic reaction to the titanium casing of the 125I seeds. Containing a trace amount of nickel, 125I seeds can elicit a delayed hypersensitivity reaction in patients with a history of nickel dermatitis. Preoperative patch testing is recommended in these patients, and 125I seed implantation should be avoided in those who test positive.
Novel 4-[5-{4-[(2-Benzylidenehydrazine)Carbonyl]phenyl}-3-(Trifluoromethyl)-1H-Pyrazol-1-yl]Benzenesulfonamides: Synthesis, Crystal Structure, Anti-Inflammatory and Ulcerogenecity Studies
Authors: Mustafa Ghulam , Zia-ur-Rehman Muhammad , Khan Islam Ullah , Ishtiaq Saiqa , Hussain Sajjad , Arshad Muhammad Nadeem , Asiri Abdullah Mohammad
Published: February 2016

A series of novel 4-{5-[(2-benzylidenehydrazine)carbonyl]phenyl}-3-(trifluoromethyl)-1 H-pyrazol-1-yl]benzenesulfonamides was synthesised from 4-[1-(4-aminosulfonylphenyl)-3-(trifluoromethyl)-1 H-pyrazol-5-yl]benzoic acid (celecoxib). Initially, celecoxib was selectively oxidised. The product was then esterified and this was followed by hydrazinolysis to get the carbohydrazide. The carbohydrazide was subsequently reacted with a number of benzaldehyde derivatives to give the title compounds. These compounds were characterised by spectral and elemental analyses along with the single crystal X-ray crystallography of a representative compound. All the synthesised compounds were found active for their anti-inflammatory activity in the carrageenan-induced rat paw oedema model. A few of them possessed even greater in vivo anti-inflammatory activities when compared to the reference drug celecoxib and showed minimal or no ulcerogenic effect.
Mn (II) Complexes Based on Oligopyridines: Structure, Thermal Studies and Optical Band-Gap Determination
Authors: Alghool Samir , Slebodnick Carla
Published: February 2016

Two cationic complexes [Mn(II)(terpy)2]·2(PCP) and [Mn(II)(dipy)3]·2(PCP) (terpy = 2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridine) (dipy = 2,2-dipyridyl) (PCP = pentacyanopropenide) have been synthesised. Single crystal X-ray diffraction revealed that the PCP ligand acts as a counter ion. The thermal stability of these compounds was investigated. Optical absorption measurements show that the fundamental absorption edge obeys Tauc's relation for the allowed non-direct transition. The optical band gap (Eg) values equal ~2.7 eV for both complexes.
Facultative Nest Modification by Rock Wrens (Salpinctes obsoletus)
Authors: Warning Nathanial , Benedict Lauryn
Published: February 2016

Dynamic nest-construction behaviours suggest that nest structures can be facultatively adjusted in response to environmental conditions. This is particularly true when nest builders create environmental structures that are supplemental to the nest itself, because these structures can be adapted to nest site conditions. Rock Wrens ( Salpinctes obsoletus) mechanically alter their nest environments by amending rock-based cavities with stones, which are placed below their soft nest cups and often occlude cavity entrances, and extending out of nest cavities. We measured stones and cavity dimensions in 68 Rock Wren nests to quantify stone form and functional variability in stone use. Nests in our study contained stones with a consistent, flat shape, suggesting that Rock Wrens were selective when choosing stones for use around nests. We found significant positive correlations between the size of the nest cavity entrance, the amount of stones placed in nests, and the occlusion rates of the nest cavity entrances. Our data suggest that Rock Wrens place stones around their nests using selective, goal-directed behaviour with the objective of approaching an optimal cavity entrance size. Stone use at nests reflects high behavioural flexibility, and can be considered tool use during nest construction.
Experimentally reduced Nest-Building Costs Result in Higher Provisioning Rates but not Increased Offspring Fitness in Blue Tits
Authors: Mainwaring Mark C. , Hartley Ian R.
Published: February 2016

The energetic costs associated with nest construction are becoming increasingly apparent, yet we still know remarkably little about how those costs affect parental care during the subsequent egg laying, incubation, nestling provisioning and fledgling stages of reproduction. Here we describe a study where we provided experimental pairs of Blue Tits ( Cyanistes caeruleus) with supplementary food throughout the nest-building period and then quantified nest characteristics, incubation behaviours and nestling provisioning rates at experimentally fed and unfed control nests. We have already reported that experimental females built heavier nests than unfed females and here we extend that study by showing that whilst hatching asynchrony and brood sizes at hatching did not differ between treatments, males at experimental nests provisioned their offspring at significantly higher rates than did males at control nests. As female provisioning rates did not differ significantly between treatments, total parental provisioning rates were higher at experimental nests, although brood sizes and the mass of nestlings at pre-fledging did not differ between treatments. This implies that when the energetic costs of nest construction were indirectly reduced via the provision of supplementary food, females responded by constructing larger nests. Females did not alter their incubation or provisioning behaviours but males did increase their provisioning rates. Unfortunately, our experimental design means that we are unable to disentangle the relative contributions of the provision of supplementary food and the size of the female-built nest in causing male provisioning rates to be higher at experimental nests. In summary, our study suggests that the energetic costs of nest construction are carried over into future stages of reproduction in a sex-specific and complex manner.
Assessing the Adequacy, Utilization and Repayment of Grameen Bank Income Generating Loans on Rural Women in Selected Areas of Tangail District
Authors: Labani SA , Islam MZ , Hafeez ASMG
Published: February 2016

A study was conducted to assess the adequacy, utilization and repayment of Grameen Bank (GB) income generating loans on rural women in selected areas of Tangail district. The study was conducted with socio-economic characteristics of the women borrowers, assessing the adequacy, utilization and repayment of loan. With this end in view, 60 respondents were purposively selected from three villages namely Hemnagar, Volapara and Shimlapara of which 10 were engaged in farming, 21 were engaged in livestock rearing, 19 were engaged in petty business, 5 were engaged in tailoring and 5 were indirectly engaged in van/rickshaw pulling. Tabular and statistical analyses were applied for achieving the objectives. In the study area, higher proportions (55 per cent) of women were middle aged and 93 percent were married. About 75 percent had signature ability, 18 and 7 per cent studied up to primary and secondary level respectively. Average family size of the respondents was5.36; average annual income and saving of the respondents were Tk. 65958.05 and 8769.65 respectively. Six explanatory variables i.e. Age, education, family size, occupation, income and expenditure were considered for repayment of loan in empirical model. Age, family size, income and expenditure had significant impact on repayment of loan. Average amount of credit received by the respondents was Tk. 8139 and on an average 82 percent of the loaned money was utilized for the reported IGAs. Due to poor economic condition, the respondents could not utilize the total loaned money in productive purposes. Overall loan recovery percentage was found to be quite satisfactory. They repaid their loan on time with the hope of getting more credit in future and because of regular supervision by the banks field level workers and pressure of the group leaders.J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 8(2): 131-134 2015
Rutin—Increased Antioxidant Activity and Skin Penetration by Nanocrystal Technology (smartCrystals)
Authors: Pyo Sung , Meinke Martina , Keck Cornelia , Müller Rainer
Published: February 2016

Rutin is a well-known antioxidant from the group of flavonoids. Its use in cosmetic dermal products is, however, limited due to its poor water solubility. In order to increase rutin saturation solubility and improve the diffusion to the skin, rutin nanocrystals were produced by the smartCrystal process, e.g., bead milling followed by high pressure homogenization. Rutin nanocrystals were further incorporated into hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) gel and its long-term stability was assessed. Determination of the antioxidant activity was made by the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay for these formulations: rutin nanocrystals (mean size 300 nm), rutin raw drug powder (mean size 33 μm) and commercial product. Furthermore, the skin penetration profile of rutin was investigated by the tape-stripping method on porcine skin. This study demonstrated that rutin nanocrystal gel had the highest neutralizing activity (90%), followed by a commercial product and rutin raw drug powder. According to the skin study, rutin nanocrystals penetrated to the deeper layers of the stratum corneum, the horny layer of the skin.
Tea Category Identification Using a Novel Fractional Fourier Entropy and Jaya Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Yudong , Yang Xiaojun , Cattani Carlo , Rao Ravipudi , Wang Shuihua , Phillips Preetha
Published: February 2016

This work proposes a tea-category identification (TCI) system, which can automatically determine tea category from images captured by a 3 charge-coupled device (CCD) digital camera. Three-hundred tea images were acquired as the dataset. Apart from the 64 traditional color histogram features that were extracted, we also introduced a relatively new feature as fractional Fourier entropy (FRFE) and extracted 25 FRFE features from each tea image. Furthermore, the kernel principal component analysis (KPCA) was harnessed to reduce 64 + 25 = 89 features. The four reduced features were fed into a feedforward neural network (FNN). Its optimal weights were obtained by Jaya algorithm. The 10 × 10-fold stratified cross-validation (SCV) showed that our TCI system obtains an overall average sensitivity rate of 97.9%, which was higher than seven existing approaches. In addition, we used only four features less than or equal to state-of-the-art approaches. Our proposed system is efficient in terms of tea-category identification.
Closed Solar House with Radiation Filtering Roof for Transplant Production in Arid Regions: Energy Consumption
Authors: Abdel-Ghany Ahmed , Al-Helal Ibrahim , Alsadon Abdullah , Ibrahim Abdullah , Shady Mohamed
Published: February 2016

Under harsh weather conditions, closed transplant production systems (CTPS) are currently used to produce high quality transplants under artificial lighting. More than 70% of the electric energy consumed in the CTPS is for lighting. This article presents a simulation study to examine the possibility of using an alternative closed solar house, with radiation filtering roof, for transplant production in hot sunny regions to replace the artificial lighting in the CTPS with sunlight. The sidewalls of the house were insulated as in the CTPS and the roof was transparent, and made from polycarbonate hollow-channeled structure. There was a liquid radiation filter (LRF) (1.5% CuSO4–water solution) flowing in a closed loop through the roof channels to absorb the solar heat load (i.e., the near infra-red radiation, NIR: 700–2500 nm) and transmit the photosynthetically active radiation (PAR: 400–700 nm) for plant growth. The LRF inlet temperature was assumed to be 25 °C to prevent vapor condensation on the inner surface of the cover. The evapo-transpired water vapor was removed immediately to maintain the relative humidity inside the house at 70%. The results proved that this technique can offer an appropriate air temperature inside the house less than outside air temperature by around 8–10 °C in hot summer days, and the integrated electric energy consumption during the production period was estimated to be around 43% of the CTPS consumption.
An Automatic Switched-Capacitor Cell Balancing Circuit for Series-Connected Battery Strings
Authors: Ye Yuanmao , Cheng Ka
Published: February 2016

In this paper, a novel voltage equalizer is developed for series battery strings based on the two-phase switched capacitor technique. Different from the conventional voltage equalizers which are developed by switched-mode power converters, bulky magnetic components and complex monitoring and control system are avoided in the proposed system. Just a pair of complementary pulse signals with constant switching frequency and fixed duty ratio are required to control all of switches employed in the proposed voltage equalizer, and charge transfers from the higher voltage battery cells to lower voltage ones automatically. The circuit configuration and operation principle are provided in this paper. The model of the proposed voltage equalizer is also derived. Comparison with other works indicates that the proposed method is superior to the conventional switched-capacitor (SC) voltage equalizer for the high stack of series battery strings. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed voltage equalization system is capable of excellent voltage balancing performance with a simple control method.
Development and Simulation of a Type of Four-Shaft ECVT for a Hybrid Electric Vehicle
Authors: Zhang Yong , Ma Xuerui , Yin Chengliang , Yuan Shifei
Published: February 2016

In hybrid electric vehicles with power-split configurations, the engine can be decoupled from the wheel and operated with improved fuel economy, while the entire efficiency of the powertrain is affected by the circular electric power flow. Two planetary gear (2-PG) sets with adding brakes/clutches, namely a type of four shaft elelctric continuously variable transmission (ECVT) can provide multi-mode operation for the powertrain and extend the efficient area. First, a conventional 2-PG AT (Automatic Transmission) architecture is investigated. By analyzing and comparing the connection and operating modes based on the kinematic relationship and lever analogy, a feasible four-shaft ECVT architecture with two brakes and two simplified versions are picked. To make a trade-off between fuel economy and configuration complexity, an instantaneous optimal control strategy based on the equivalent consumption minimization strategy (ECMS) concept is then developed and employed as the unified optimization method in the simulations of three different configurations. Finally, the simulation results show that the simplified versions are suboptimal sets and the fuel economy is sacrificed by the limits of different modes. From the viewpoint of concept design, a multi-mode power-split configuration is more suitable for hybrid electric vehicles. This research applied a systematic methodology from concept design to energy management optimization, which can provide the guidelines for researchers to select a suitable multi-mode power-split hybrid powertrain.
Polymorphisms in Four Genes (KCNQ1 rs151290, KLF14 rs972283, GCKR rs780094 and MTNR1B rs10830963) and Their Correlation with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Han Chinese in Henan Province, China
Authors: Gao Kaiping , Wang Jinjin , Li Linlin , Zhai Yujia , Ren Yongcheng , You Haifei , Wang Bingyuan , Wu Xuli , Li Jianna , Liu Zichen , Li Xiong , Huang Yaxin , Luo Xin-Ping , Hu Dongsheng , Ohno Kinji , Wang Chongjian
Published: February 2016

Genetic variants at KCNQ1 rs151290, KLF14 rs972283, GCKR rs780094 and MTNR1B rs10830963 have been associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but the results are contradictory in Chinese populations. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association of these four SNPs with T2DM in a large population of Han Chinese at Henan province, China. Seven-hundred-thirty-six patients with T2DM (cases) and Seven-hundred-sixty-eight healthy glucose-tolerant controls were genotyped for KCNQ1 rs151290, KLF14 rs972283, GCKR rs780094 and MTNR1B rs10830963. The association of genetic variants in these four genes with T2DM was analyzed using multivariate logistic regression. Genotypes and allele distributions of KCNQ1 rs151290 were significantly different between the cases and controls (p < 0.05). The AC and CC genotypes and the combined AC + CC genotype of rs151290 in KCNQ1 were associated with increases risk of T2DM before (OR = 1.482, 95% CI = 1.062–2.069; p = 0.021; OR = 1.544, 95% CI = 1.097–2.172, p = 0.013; and OR = 1.509, 95% CI = 1.097–2.077, p = 0.011, respectively) and after (OR = 1.539, 95% CI = 1.015–2.332, p = 0.042; OR = 1.641, 95% CI = 1.070–2.516, p = 0.023; and OR = 1.582, 95% CI = 1.061–2.358, p = 0.024; respectively) adjustment for sex, age, anthropometric measurements, biochemical indexes, smoking and alcohol consumption. Consistent with results of genotype analysis, the C allele of rs151290 in KCNQ1 was also associated with increased risk of T2DM (OR = 1.166, 95% CI = 1.004–1.355, p = 0.045). No associations between genetic variants of KLF14 rs972283, GCKR rs780094 or MTNR1B rs10830963 and T2DM were detected. The AC and CC genotypes and the C allele of rs151290 in KCNQ1 may be risk factors for T2DM in Han Chinese in Henan province.
Lower Prevalence of Atopic Dermatitis and Allergic Sensitization among Children and Adolescents with a Two-Sided Migrant Background
Authors: Ernst Sinja , Schmitz Roma , Thamm Michael , Ellert Ute
Published: February 2016

In industrialized countries atopic diseases have been reported to be less likely in children and adolescents with a migrant background compared to non-migrants. This paper aimed at both examining and comparing prevalence of asthma, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and atopic dermatitis and allergic sensitization to specific IgE antibodies in children and adolescents with and without a migrant background. Using data of the population-based German Health Interview and Examination Survey for children and adolescents (KiGGS;n = 17,450; 0–17 years), lifetime and 12-month prevalence of atopic diseases and point prevalence of 20 common allergic sensitizations were investigated among migrants compared to non-migrants. Multiple regression models were used to estimate the association of atopic disease and allergic sensitization with migrant background. In multivariate analyses with substantial adjustment we found atopic dermatitis about one-third less often (OR 0.73, 0.57–0.93) in participants with a two-sided migrant background. Statistically significant associations between allergic sensitizations and a two-sided migrant background remained for birch (OR 0.73, 0.58–0.90), soybean (OR 0.72, 0.54–0.96), peanut (OR 0.69, 0.53–0.90), rice (OR 0.64, 0.48–0.87), potato (OR 0.64, 0.48–0.85), and horse dander (OR 0.58, 0.40–0.85). Environmental factors and living conditions might be responsible for the observed differences.
Key Immune Events of the Pathomechanisms of Early Cardioembolic Stroke: Multi-Database Mining and Systems Biology Approach
Authors: Wu Chia-Chou , Chen Bor-Sen
Published: February 2016

While inflammation has generally been regarded as a negative factor in stroke recovery, this viewpoint has recently been challenged by demonstrating that inflammation is a necessary and sufficient factor for regeneration in the zebrafish brain injury model. This close relationship with inflammation suggests that a re-examination of the immune system’s role in strokes is necessary. We used a systems biology approach to investigate the role of immune-related functions via their interactions with other molecular functions in early cardioembolic stroke. Based on protein interaction models and on microarray data from the blood of stroke subjects and healthy controls, networks were constructed to delineate molecular interactions at four early stages (pre-stroke, 3 h, 5 h and 24 h after stroke onset) of cardioembolic stroke. A comparative analysis of functional networks identified interactions of immune-related functions with other molecular functions, including growth factors, neuro/hormone and housekeeping functions. These provide a potential pathomechanism for early stroke pathophysiology. In addition, several potential targets of miRNA and methylation regulations were derived based on basal level changes observed in the core networks and literature. The results provide a more comprehensive understanding of stroke progression mechanisms from an immune perspective and shed light on acute stroke treatments.
Alternatives to Outdoor Daylight Illumination for Photodynamic Therapy—Use of Greenhouses and Artificial Light Sources
Authors: Lerche Catharina , Heerfordt Ida , Heydenreich Jakob , Wulf Hans
Published: February 2016

Daylight-mediated photodynamic therapy (daylight PDT) is a simple and pain free treatment of actinic keratoses. Weather conditions may not always allow daylight PDT outdoors. We compared the spectrum of five different lamp candidates for indoor “daylight PDT” and investigated their ability to photobleach protoporphyrin IX (PpIX). Furthermore, we measured the amount of PpIX activating daylight available in a glass greenhouse, which can be an alternative when it is uncomfortable for patients to be outdoors. The lamps investigated were: halogen lamps (overhead and slide projector), white light-emitting diode (LED) lamp, red LED panel and lamps used for conventional PDT. Four of the five light sources were able to photobleach PpIX completely. For halogen light and the red LED lamp, 5000 lux could photobleach PpIX whereas 12,000 lux were needed for the white LED lamp. Furthermore, the greenhouse was suitable for daylight PDT since the effect of solar light is lowered only by 25%. In conclusion, we found four of the five light sources and the greenhouse usable for indoor daylight PDT. The greenhouse is beneficial when the weather outside is rainy or windy. Only insignificant ultraviolet B radiation (UVB) radiation passes through the greenhouse glass, so sun protection is not needed.
New Approaches to the Role of Thrombin in Acute Coronary Syndromes: Quo Vadis Bivalirudin, a Direct Thrombin Inhibitor?
Authors: Esteve-Pastor María , Hernández-Romero Diana , Valdés Mariano , Marín Francisco
Published: February 2016

The pathophysiology of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) involves platelet activation and thrombus formation after the rupture of atherosclerotic plaques. Thrombin is generated at the blood-plaque interface in association with cellular membranes on cells and platelets. Thrombin also amplifies the response to the tissue injury, coagulation and platelet response, so the treatment of ACS is based on the combined use of both antiplatelet (such as aspirin, clopidogrel, prasugrel and ticagrelor) and antithrombotic drugs (unfractionated heparin, enoxaparin, fondaparinux and bivalirudin). Bivalirudin competitively inhibits thrombin with high affinity, a predictable response from its linear pharmacokinetics and short action. However, a present remarkable controversy exists between the latest main Guidelines in Clinical Practice and the key trials evaluating the use of bivalirudin in ACS. The aim of this review is to update the development of bivalirudin, including pharmacological properties, obtained information from clinical trials evaluating efficacy and safety of bivalirudin in ACS; as well as the recommendations of clinical Guidelines.
Functional fusion of living systems with synthetic electrode interfaces
Authors: Staufer Oskar , Weber Sebastian , Bengtson C Peter , Bading Hilmar , Spatz Joachim P , Rustom Amin
Published: February 2016

The functional fusion of “living” biomaterial (such as cells) with synthetic systems has developed into a principal ambition for various scientific disciplines. In particular, emerging fields such as bionics and nanomedicine integrate advanced nanomaterials with biomolecules, cells and organisms in order to develop novel strategies for applications, including energy production or real-time diagnostics utilizing biomolecular machineries “perfected” during billion years of evolution. To date, hardware–wetware interfaces that sample or modulate bioelectric potentials, such as neuroprostheses or implantable energy harvesters, are mostly based on microelectrodes brought into the closest possible contact with the targeted cells. Recently, the possibility of using electrochemical gradients of the inner ear for technical applications was demonstrated using implanted electrodes, where 1.12 nW of electrical power was harvested from the guinea pig endocochlear potential for up to 5 h (Mercier, P.; Lysaght, A.; Bandyopadhyay, S.; Chandrakasan, A.; Stankovic, K. Nat. Biotech. 2012, 30, 1240–1243). More recent approaches employ nanowires (NWs) able to penetrate the cellular membrane and to record extra- and intracellular electrical signals, in some cases with subcellular resolution (Spira, M.; Hai, A. Nat. Nano. 2013, 8, 83–94). Such techniques include nanoelectric scaffolds containing free-standing silicon NWs (Robinson, J. T.; Jorgolli, M.; Shalek, A. K.; Yoon, M. H.; Gertner, R. S.; Park, H. Nat Nanotechnol. 2012, 10, 180–184) or NW field-effect transistors (Qing, Q.; Jiang, Z.; Xu, L.; Gao, R.; Mai, L.; Lieber, C. Nat. Nano. 2013, 9, 142–147), vertically aligned gallium phosphide NWs (Hällström, W.; Mårtensson, T.; Prinz, C.; Gustavsson, P.; Montelius, L.; Samuelson, L.; Kanje, M. Nano Lett. 2007, 7, 2960–2965) or individually contacted, electrically active carbon nanofibers. The latter of these approaches is capable of recording electrical responses from oxidative events occurring in intercellular regions of neuronal cultures (Zhang, D.; Rand, E.; Marsh, M.; Andrews, R.; Lee, K.; Meyyappan, M.; Koehne, J. Mol. Neurobiol. 2013, 48, 380–385). Employing monocrystalline gold, nanoelectrode interfaces, we have now achieved stable, functional access to the electrochemical machinery of individual Physarum polycephalum slime mold cells. We demonstrate the “symbionic” union, allowing for electrophysiological measurements, functioning as autonomous sensors and capable of producing nanowatts of electric power. This represents a further step towards the future development of groundbreaking, cell-based technologies, such as bionic sensory systems or miniaturized energy sources to power various devices, or even “intelligent implants”, constantly refueled by their surrounding nutrients.
DISK-FED GIANT PLANET FORMATION
Authors: Owen James E. , Menou Kristen
Published: February 2016

Massive giant planets, such as the ones being discovered by direct imaging surveys, likely experience the majority of their growth through a circumplanetary disk. We argue that the entropy of accreted material is determined by boundary layer processes, unlike the “cold-” or “hot-start” hypotheses usually invoked in the core-accretion and direct-collapse scenarios. A simple planetary evolution model illustrates how a wide range of radius and luminosity tracks become possible, depending on details of the accretion process. Specifically, the protoplanet evolves toward “hot-start” tracks if the scale height of the boundary layer is ≳0.24, a value not much larger than the scale height of the circumplanetary disk. Understanding the luminosity and radii of young giant planets will thus require detailed models of circumplanetary accretion.
Constellations cinématographiques catholiques. Les entreprises confessionnelles du film au premier XX e siècle
Authors: Leventopoulos Mélisande
Published: February 2016

Cet article porte sur la place des entreprises de production et de distribution dans le dispositif d’action cinématographique catholique français. Il étudie les tensions entre l’apostolat dans le cinéma et l’investissement entrepreneurial d’un secteur industriel et commercial. L’auteure fait le constat de l’insurmontable éclatement des entreprises cinématographiques confessionnelles et interroge la marginalité des démarches entrepreneuriales catholiques dans ce secteur.
Quelle place pour un adolescent ?
Authors: Coen Abram
Published: February 2016

L’échec de la mise en place d’une consultation pour adolescents nous a obligés à repenser le « soin » propre à cette classe d’âge et à mettre en place une expérience de prévention primaire, le point accueil jeunes, en préalable à l’ouverture – cette fois demandée par les adolescents eux-mêmes – d’une consultation très attendue à Saint-Denis (93).
À propos de la psychothérapie institutionnelle qui a influencé Beit Ham
Authors: Landman Patrick
Published: February 2016

Les psychoses sont les effets non seulement de l’aliénation sociale mais aussi de l’aliénation mentale. La psychothérapie institutionnelle et la pédagogie institutionnelle, par leurs dispositifs horizontaux et transversaux, tentent de dialectiser ces deux aliénations du sujet pour lui permettre une narration de son passé et une installation dans l’espace de son corps. La fonction club est au centre de ce projet, et c’est elle qui a été reprise par Beit Ham.
La musique à beit ham, lieu de création du lien et outil de médiation
Authors: Rividi Dominique
Published: February 2016

Assaf, qui vivait à une certaine époque dans la rue, a connu le club par le bouche-à-oreille. Il raconte comment son lien avec Beit Ham s’est construit dans un processus qui a commencé par une rencontre en faisant de la musique ensemble avec un éducateur et s’est renforcé et transformé en un sentiment d’appartenance qui a changé sa vie.
« Mots à Maux »
Authors: Moshnyager Nathalie , Vuagniaux Richard
Published: February 2016

Notre projet est de mettre à disposition de sujets qui n’ont pas accès à la psychanalyse pour raison de précarité financière et sociale notamment, un lieu d’écoute déterminé par le référent analytique. La notion de sujet est fondamentale et sera développée. Nous évoquerons ensuite les prérequis – en termes logistique, social, institutionnel et financier –, à l’écoute analytique dans un lieu tel que Mots à Maux. Enfin nous développerons les valeurs sur lesquelles est basé Mots à Maux : subversion, éthique de singularité et de différence, éthique de tolérance, singularité jusque dans le dispositif, ainsi que les ouvertures de Mots à Maux à la société environnante et aux autres associations, groupements et/ou personnes.