bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-Fracture Redundancy Evaluation of a Twin Box-Girder Shinkansen Bridge in Japan
Authors: Lin Weiwei , Yoda Teruhiko , Taniguchi Nozomu , Lam Heang , Nakabayashi Kazuki
Published: July 2016

As the national bridge inventory ages and traffic volumes increase, the government is spending more on maintaining their existing structures to extend the service life of the current bridge inventory. This includes two-girder bridges that are classified as fracture critical and non-redundant. Owing to the increased inspection costs associated with these fracture-critical bridges, there is a need to evaluate alternate load paths and to implement retrofit methods on existing bridge structures to avoid bridge replacement. In this paper, after-fracture redundancy of two-girder bridges is investigated through a case study for a four-span continuous steel-concrete composite twin box- girder bridge. The finite element analysis was carried out to evaluate the load-carrying capacity after failure of one girder of the two-girder bridge. Two types of the main-girder damage, including fracture of the bottom flange only, and fracture of both bottom flange and the web were considered respectively in this study. Typical damage locations including mid-span section of the main girder and the sections near the intermediate support were also considered in the numerical analyses. On the basis of the numerical results, the present continuous steel-concrete composite box-girder bridge was classified as a redundant bridge, and the concrete deck was considered as the key member for ensuring the bridge redundancy after severe damages occurred on the main girders.
Challenges in Hong Kong – Zhuhai – Macao Bridge (HZMB) Hong Kong Link Road Project
Authors: Chan Man , Poon Wai Kwong , Leung Yew Wah , Sai Ho CHAN Donald , Premaud Valery , Rialland Yves
Published: July 2016

The Hong Kong Link Road (HKLR) is part of the prominent structure, Hong Kong-Zuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB), connecting 3 vibrant cities in Southern China. The works which are administered under Highways Department of HKSAR comprises design and construction of approximately 9km of viaducts. About 7km of the viaducts are marine structures with three navigation channels.

The basic structural form of the viaducts is precast segmental prestressed concrete box girder. The span length of the viaducts ranges from 35m to 180m. Balanced cantilever method is selected due to the variability of the span lengths and flexibility in construction. The piers consist of both cast- insitu and precast concrete structures. The viaducts are supported on bored piles with diameters ranging from 2.2m to 2.8m. Foundation in areas with complex geology such as fault zones has posed a major challenge to the job. Some piles are over 100m long due to complex geology.

This paper presents the challenges and solutions employed in the design and construction of the viaducts. It describes the prestressed schemes employed in both the decks and piers with special details used in the formation of monolithic deck-column connections. The three main Challenges on the project were the erection in open sea, the vicinity of the Airport and enverinmental constraints.
Main Achievements and Technical challenges of High-speed Railway Bridges in China
Authors: He Xuhui , Zou Yunfeng , Hu Suoting
Published: July 2016

With the rapid development of national economy, China railway construction industry has achieved
great progress in the recent decade. This paper reviews the main construction and development
achievements of China’s high-speed railways, and discusses the main technical challenges for
current and future developments of high-speed railway bridges.
Integrated Optimal Wind Performance Design of Super Tall Buildings Under Human Comfort and Stiffness Constraints
Authors: Zhao Xin , Ma Zhuang
Published: July 2016

More and more super tall buildings have been developed in recent years in China. Optimal design is attracting increasing interest due to the huge energy and material consumption for super tall buildings. The human comfort and stiffness performance under wind loads are commonly the governing factors for the structural design of super tall buildings. Energy dissipation devices have been applied in engineering practices to improve the performance of super tall building under wind loads. The typical energy dissipation devices are tuned mass damper (TMD) and viscous damper (VD). Compared with TMD, the VD system owns its unique advantages. Firstly, the TMD system works only at the specific frequency of the primary structure, while the VD system can work in a wide frequency range. Secondly, the TMD system is commonly applied to mitigate the wind- induced vibration to improve the human comfort performance, while VD system can be applied to mitigate the structural vibration under both wind load and earthquake action to improve both human comfort and stiffness performances. VD has been used in wind resistance of super tall buildings, but the integrated optimization of primary structure due to the design redundancy caused by the installation of VD system is commonly not considered in current practices. In this paper, an integrated optimal design method is proposed to improve the wind human comfort and stiffness performances through the application of VD system. The integrated optimization of primary structure is also considered in the proposed method. A 250-meter real super-tall building project is employed to illustrate the applicability and validity of the integrated optimal wind performance design method.
Explore the Keynote of Structure Design on Super High-rise Building in Guangzhou– The application of Total Design
Authors: Zhao Hong , Wang Yang , Wang Xiaohan
Published: July 2016

Lying alongside the Pearl River, three super high-rise buildings form an urban trinity along the CBD central axis which anchors the entire skyline of the prosperous area. These three buildings, Canton Tower (600m), Guangzhou International Finance Centre (432m) and Guangzhou Chow Tai Fook Centre (530m) respectively, presenting unique architectural styles, became the new iconic landmarks which have transformed the city image. The success on these three super high riseprojects, to a great extent, lied on applying "total design" philosophy. This article describes the experiences of how to match the architecture functional requirements while archiving the goal of building safety, cost effectiveness and constructability, in order to provide guidance for the structural design of modern super high-rise buildings by highlighting the importance of the seamless collaboration of multi-disciplines and all-phase technical consultant service.
Radical Smiles Rearrangement: An Update
Authors: Allart-Simon Ingrid , Gérard Stéphane , Sapi Janos
Published: July 2016

Over the decades the Smiles rearrangement and its variants have become essential synthetic tools in modern synthetic organic chemistry. In this mini-review we summarized some very recent results of the radical version of these rearrangements. The selected examples illustrate the synthetic power of this approach, especially if it is incorporated into a domino process, for the preparation of polyfunctionalized complex molecules.
Biotransformation of Resveratrol: New Prenylated trans-Resveratrol Synthesized by Aspergillus sp. SCSIOW2
Authors: Wang Liyan , Wu Yanhua , Chen Yongtao , Zou Jiaxin , Li Xiaofan
Published: July 2016

Arahypin-16 (1), a new prenylated resveratrol with a unique dihydrobenzofuran ring, has been isolated as a microbial metabolite of resveratrol (2) from whole-cell fermentation of Aspergillus sp. SCSIOW2. The stereochemistry of 1 was determined by ECD calculations. 1 showed about half of the extracellular radical scavenging effect (IC50 = 161.4 μM) compared with resveratrol (IC50 = 80.5 μM), while on biomembranes it exhibited the same range of protection effects against free radicals generated from AAPH (IC50 = 78.6 μM and 87.9 μM).
Microwave Imaging under Oblique Illumination
Authors: Meng Qingyang , Xu Kuiwen , Shen Fazhong , Zhang Bin , Ye Dexin , Huangfu Jiangtao , Li Changzhi , Ran Lixin
Published: July 2016

Microwave imaging based on inverse scattering problem has been attracting many interests in the microwave society. Among some major technical challenges, the ill-posed, multi-dimensional inversion algorithm and the complicated measurement setup are critical ones that prevent it from practical applications. In this paper, we experimentally investigate the performance of the subspace-based optimization method (SOM) for two-dimensional objects when it was applied to a setup designed for oblique incidence. Analytical, simulation, and experimental results show that, for 2D objects, neglecting the cross-polarization scattering will not cause a notable loss of information. Our method can be potentially used in practical imaging applications for 2D-like objects, such as human limbs.
Hybrid Corporate Performance Prediction Model Considering Technical Capability
Authors: Lee Joonhyuck , Kim Gabjo , Park Sangsung , Jang Dongsik
Published: July 2016

Many studies have tried to predict corporate performance and stock prices to enhance investment profitability using qualitative approaches such as the Delphi method. However, developments in data processing technology and machine-learning algorithms have resulted in efforts to develop quantitative prediction models in various managerial subject areas. We propose a quantitative corporate performance prediction model that applies the support vector regression (SVR) algorithm to solve the problem of the overfitting of training data and can be applied to regression problems. The proposed model optimizes the SVR training parameters based on the training data, using the genetic algorithm to achieve sustainable predictability in changeable markets and managerial environments. Technology-intensive companies represent an increasing share of the total economy. The performance and stock prices of these companies are affected by their financial standing and their technological capabilities. Therefore, we apply both financial indicators and technical indicators to establish the proposed prediction model. Here, we use time series data, including financial, patent, and corporate performance information of 44 electronic and IT companies. Then, we predict the performance of these companies as an empirical verification of the prediction performance of the proposed model.
How Safe Is Safe for Marine Toxins Monitoring?
Authors: Botana Luis , Alfonso Amparo , Rodríguez Ines , Botana Ana , Louzao Maria , Vieytes Mercedes
Published: July 2016

Current regulation for marine toxins requires a monitoring method based on mass spectrometric analysis. This method is pre-targeted, hence after searching for pre-assigned masses, it identifies those compounds that were pre-defined with available calibrants. Therefore, the scope for detecting novel toxins which are not included in the monitoring protocol are very limited. In addition to this, there is a poor comprehension of the toxicity of some marine toxin groups. Also, the validity of the current approach is questioned by the lack of sufficient calibrants, and by the insufficient coverage by current legislation of the toxins reported to be present in shellfish. As an example, tetrodotoxin, palytoxin analogs, or cyclic imines are mentioned as indicators of gaps in the system that require a solid comprehension to assure consumers are protected.
DISAPPEARANCE OF THE PROGENITOR OF SUPERNOVA iPTF13bvn
Authors: Folatelli Gastón , Van Dyk Schuyler D. , Kuncarayakti Hanindyo , Maeda Keiichi , Bersten Melina C. , Nomoto Ken’ichi , Pignata Giuliano , Hamuy Mario , Quimby Robert M. , Zheng WeiKang , Filippenko Alexei V. , Clubb Kelsey I. , Smith Nathan , Elias-Rosa Nancy , Foley Ryan J. , Miller Adam A.
Published: July 2016

Supernova (SN) iPTF13bvn in NGC 5806 was the first Type Ib SN to have been tentatively associated with a progenitor in pre-explosion images. We performed deep ultraviolet (UV) and optical Hubble Space Telescope observations of the SN site ∼740 days after explosion. We detect an object in the optical bands that is fainter than the pre-explosion object. This dimming is likely not produced by dust absorption in the ejecta; thus, our finding confirms the connection of the progenitor candidate with the SN. The object in our data is likely dominated by the fading SN, implying that the pre-SN flux is mostly due to the progenitor. We compare our revised pre-SN photometry with previously proposed models. Although binary progenitors are favored, models need to be refined. In particular, to comply with our deep UV detection limit, any companion star must be less luminous than a late-O star or substantially obscured by newly formed dust. A definitive progenitor characterization will require further observations to disentangle the contribution of a much fainter SN and its environment.
Vulnérabilité de l’œuvre en traduction
Authors: Samoyault Tiphaine
Published: July 2016

À partir de l’examen de brouillons de traduction de quelques épisodes d’Ulysse de James Joyce (pour la retraduction de 2004 publiée sous la direction de Jacques Aubert), cet article propose de faire de la genèse de la traduction une genèse à rebours ou une contre-genèse de l’œuvre. Le pluriel des possibles de l’œuvre n’est pas, comme dans le cas des genèses, en amont, logé dans les brouillons, les ébauches, les scénarios, les repentirs, mais transporté en aval, dans la multiplicité des traductions, à l’intérieur d’une même langue, dans des langues différentes. Penser la traduction comme brouillon postérieur de l’œuvre, qui est l’hypothèse faite ici, permet de prendre en charge au moins deux questions : celle de l’imperfection des traductions, toujours à refaire, toujours reprises dans le temps, et celle de l’imperfection des œuvres elles-mêmes, rendues au multiple et à l’inachèvement.
De Finnegans Wake à Finnicius Revém
Authors: Paret-Passos Marie-Hélène
Published: July 2016

Les cahiers de travail de Donaldo Schüler, professeur, écrivain et traducteur brésilien qui a traduit en intégralité le roman de James Joyce, Finnegans Wake, sont ici l’objet d’une étude visant à établir une continuité entre les concepts définis par Antoine Berman dans ses écrits et les traces laissées par Donaldo Schüler durant son processus de traduction. En d’autres termes, il s’agit de chercher à rapprocher deux aspects souvent mis en opposition lorsque le sujet concerne les études sur la traduction : la théorie et la pratique. Échappant à cette terminologie, Antoine Berman choisit de parler d’expérience et de réflexion. C’est donc les traces de l’expérience traductive de Donaldo Schüler, et de sa réflexion sur cette expérience, qu’il s’agit de rechercher dans ces documents génétiques.
Traduction et réécriture chez Vladimir Nabokov : genèse d’une œuvre en trois langues
Authors: Anokhina Olga
Published: July 2016

Nabokov écrivait, traduisait et s’autotraduisait en trois langues – russe, anglais, français. Au fil des années, l’écrivain a élaboré sa propre stratégie pour la traduction de ses œuvres : il confiait la traduction de ses nombreuses fictions écrites en russe aux traducteurs professionnels de langues anglaise ou française et les supervisait ensuite personnellement en y apportant les modifications qu’il jugeait nécessaires. En se livrant à un travail important de révision et de réécriture, Nabokov prolongeait ainsi le processus créatif. La nouvelle Ozero, oblako, bachnja, écrite par Nabokov en russe, sert ici à illustrer l’approche. Cette œuvre fut traduite en anglais sous le titre Cloud, Castle, Lake par P. Pertzoff, puis revue par Nabokov dans les moindres détails. De ce texte, existent aussi trois traductions en français. Ce dossier génétique permet de comprendre ce qui motivait et influençait le travail créatif de Nabokov lors de la renaissance de son œuvre dans une autre langue.
Genèse du poème « Trahison fidèle » dans Stèles de Victor Segalen
Authors: Queloz Jean-Jacques , Terrien Danielle
Published: July 2016

Segalen publie une première édition de Stèles en 1912. Elle comporte quarante-huit poèmes. Une deuxième édition augmentée de seize poèmes voit le jour au début de 1914. « Trahison fidèle ». en fait partie. L’élaboration de ce poème s’est déroulée par étapes successives. En effet, outre le texte publié que nous connaissons, il existe sept versions différentes du poème, que Segalen est même allé jusqu’à classer, ce qui permet d’adopter une perspective génétique et de pratiquer une lecture qui s’avère éclairante quant au contenu du poème lui-même – à commencer par son titre. L’étude des variantes dévoile la charge autobiographique de ce poème ; elle permet aussi de saisir à quel point la notion d’amitié est centrale et complexe pour le poète ; elle met également en évidence des procédés d’écriture, autant d’éléments qui contribuent à définir la poétique de Segalen.
The Effect of Redistribution of the Mixing Water of the Concrete Lining on its Quality
Authors: Kulikov Yuri
Published: July 2016

In the heart of the processes of formation of physical and mechanical properties of secondary lining of underground structures is the residual water-cement ratio, which indicates the extraction of the mixing water of the concrete mixture under the action of external pressure forces.
This article examines the nature of the redistribution of the mixing water in the concrete lining of the tunnels. Under the influence of radial and axial forces from laid concrete mix there is an increase in water-cement ratio in the direction from the sole to the vault head of the tunnel. This leads to deterioration of physical and mechanical properties of the lining in the roof part of the tunnel.
When calculating the strength and water resistance of the secondary concrete tunnel lining the characteristics of the concrete type by strength and waterproof, adjusted by the weakest part of the lining – its roof part – should be taken into account. The analysis of influence on the technology of erection of the lining is given.
Influence of Walkway Design on the Evacuation of Passengers within a Fixed Guideway Transit System
Authors: McDaid Aaron
Published: July 2016

With the rapid growth of cities it is considered that around 75% of the world’s population will live in cities by 2050. Estimates are that the population moving to cities are approximately 172,800 persons per day [1]. This increased demand on cities has resulted in further technological advancement in terms of infrastructure. Although the rail industry has significantly advanced in terms of driverless capability, open gangway train systems and real time monitoring it is important that our awareness of fire safety advances at the same rate.In the past, tunnel and operational fire strategies considered assisted evacuation for persons with reduced mobility (PRM) by on-board staff members, while allowing able bodied persons the ability to self-evacuate to a point of safety outside the incident tunnel. As we move into a future with further automation and less on-board train staff, it may be time to re-evaluate our current thinking in terms of tunnel evacuation strategies for Persons with Reduced Mobility.The aim of this paper is to open the discussion in terms of fire safety in tunnel systems, in particular provision of walkways and the effect on egress within tunnels. The widths of walkways are key factors in the pace at which passengers can disembark from a train onto a walkway.Although there is an active effort to improve walkway provisions within tunnels, the minimum acceptable width limit is still open for debate. This ultimately comes down to a balance between cost (monetary, environmental) and level of acceptable risk.
Investigation of Tubing Lining Loss of Tightness Causes
Authors: Mishedchenko Anatoly A. , Kuzina Aleksandra V.
Published: July 2016

In the present paper were reviewed causes of loss of tightness of horizontal joints of tubing column, were calculated parameters of expansion clearance of tubing lining, were summarized remedy ways of emergency situations during joint sealing.
Improving the Efficiency of Artificial Ground Freezing in Urban Underground Construction by Using Solid Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Shuplik Mikhail , Nikolaev Petr
Published: July 2016

At the present time there are several basic methods of soils characteristics increase during the underground structures construction. Though, frequently the ground freezing method is the most efficient way. Modern Russian investigations show, that in case of small values of frozen grounds (less than 1000 m3) the cost of construction works significantly increase. In such conditions the relevant construction technology is a ground freezing method with the use of solid carbon dioxide, which nowadays is under development in the Mining College in National University of Science and Technology MIS&S.The present article shows the brief review of the main manufacturing schemes of the ground freezing, results of the new theories and experimental investigations, also the analysis of a commercial introduction experience of the ground freezing technology with the using of carbon dioxide.So far, the main difficulties during freezing process design were with the determination of a heat flow to the freezing pipe`s direction. It was not possible to predict the dynamic of ice wall formation and the discharge of carbon dioxide. According to the last investigations, we were succeed in determinating the change dependence of the heat dissipation, depending on the rock massive characteristics, granulometric composition of solid carbon dioxide and also its changing along the freezing pipe. That is why, now we may say that, the developing technology became not just a laboratory workout, but can already has a widespread adoption in praxis
Mathematical Model of the Painting Robot
Authors: Bruzl Michal , Usmanov Vyacheslav , Svoboda Pavel , Šulc Rostislav
Published: July 2016

The main objective of the research work was to construct a techno-mathematical model of the robotic arm for conducting painting work, which would streamline the speed and quality of work performed with respect to material savings. For research we chose a robotic arm that is commonly used in industrial production, and adapted it for our conditions. The mathematical model is designed to find the optimal trajectory for moving the robotic arm, where the emphasis is placed on minimizing the path length of motion of the robot ́s endpoint, thus reducing overall energy consumption for the building work. First, the optimal mathematical modeling method was chosen, it was selected according to conditions and parameters of the robotic arm. Thanks to the applied method we picked the software that helped to create the algorithm. Subsequently, a computer simulation and calculation of the optimal motion using a combination of virtual circles, sine and cosine theorem, was done. Further, we checked all relevant angles and calculation of the robotic arm rotation in space for each admissible variant. The last step was the selection of the optimal trajectory of the robotic arm in 3D space.
Protective Structure Design against Airblast Effect
Authors: Štoller Jiří , Dvořák Petr
Published: July 2016

In the Army of the Czech Republic, the protective structure design is currently regulated by a military standard Žen 2-1/1, mainly for buried structures and against nuclear loads. As the nature of current armed conflicts suggests, it would be more appropriate to design above-ground protective structures exposed to the effects of direct or indirect fire weapons. The paper describes a search for an ideal above-ground structural shape exposed to an airblast. Several shapes were designed and their behavior under a typical airblast loading was tested using ANSYS software. As a result of the analysis, the most suitable shape of a protection structure was designed.
Dynamics and Noise Level Estimation in Two-Phase Flow through a Mini Channel
Authors: Górski Grzegorz , Litak Grzegorz , Mosdorf Romuald , Rysak Andrzej , Urbanowicz Krzysztof
Published: July 2016

By changing air to water flow rates of a two-phase flow through a minichannel we identified aggregation and partitioning of air bubbles and slugs of various sizes. It was found that for some flowconditions air bubbles formed periodic patterns. The identification of the spatio-temporal behaviourswas performed with a laser transitivity sensor and confirmed by a digital camera. We used the Hurstexponent to distinguish instabilities in air slugs, their breakups and aggregations. In addition, we performed noise level estimation.
The Creation of Mechatronic Recovery Energy System for Mobile Machines
Authors: Avsiyevich Andrei , Masalski Maksim , Shashko Aliaksandr
Published: July 2016

This paper describes general approach for creation the effective kinetic energy recovery system in mobile machines using flywheels. It’s should be a mechatronic system. The system with accelerometer-gyroscope and proportional, integral and differential controller (PID-regulator) is proposed as example of automatic control.
The Assembly of Electric Socket at Automated Workplace with SCARA Robot
Authors: Vagaš Marek
Published: July 2016

Article deals with design of automated workplace for electric socket by using an industrial SCARA robot. Electric socket contains of plastic cover, metal tab and plastic support part and serves for ensuring from connection of devices. There is, secondly, a process for electric socket assembly and also the actual design of workplace with individual devices.
Kinematic Design of Parallel Delta System in Matlab
Authors: Łygas Krystian , Wolszczak Piotr , Klepka Tomasz , Ghiculescu Daniel
Published: July 2016

The paper presents the problem of modelling the parallel kinematic delta system using specialized software Simmechanics constituting the extension of the Matlab environment. Parameterized model of the parallel delta robot was developed and kinematic analysis was performed. The results of the model was used to correction of design and real construction. Designed robot is intended to direct a tool according to the program recorded by machine commands (G-code).
Application of Artificial Neural Networks in Image Recognition
Authors: Zubrzycki Jarosław , Jonak Kamil , Zubrzycki Michał
Published: July 2016

This paper presents aaplication of two-layer Kohonen networ for the grouping of machine elements to automatically recognition by the robots. This technology is very important for robotic assembly process of a large group of different parts.
Application of Two-Layer Kohonen Networ in Image Recognition
Authors: Zubrzycki Jarosław , Jonak Kamil , Zubrzycki Michał
Published: July 2016

This paper presents aaplication of two-layer Kohonen networ for the grouping of machine elements to automatically recognition by the robots. This technology is very important for robotic assembly process of a large group of different parts.
Age Hardening and Accompanying Transformations of the Al-Ag and Al-Cu-Mg Supersaturated Solid Solutions
Authors: Lourdjane F. , Chaieb Z. , Raho A. , Kadi-Hanifi M.
Published: July 2016

The development of the transition metastable phases and the accompanying hardening of these transformations are studied for Al-20wt%Ag and Al-3wt%Cu-1wt%Mg supersaturated solid solutions. During the precipitation the GP and GPB zones form by a process of negative diffusion. The metastable phases are characterized by their hardness isotherms and their temperature range determined on the hardness isochronal.
Mechanical Characterization and Water Sorption in Polyester Matrix Composites Reinforced with Sisal Fiber: An Experimental Investigation
Authors: Gomes dos Santos D. , Barbosa de Lima A.G. , Silva Pinto M.V.
Published: July 2016

In this work we evaluated the mechanical characterization and sorption water of polymer matrix composites reinforced with sisal fibers at different bath temperatures. Experimental tests of tensile (ASTM D 3039), impact (ASTM D 256) and water sorption in samples with rectangular cross section (dimensions of specimens 20x20mm) were made. It was used the unsaturated polyester resin matrix (Resapol 10-316). With the aim of analyzing the tensile strength and the impact, samples were made with fiber content (by weight) of 44.6%. Water sorption tests were performed with the specimens immersed in water at 25°C, 50°C and 70°C. The results showed that for higher water temperature less time the sample takes to reach saturation and mechanical properties is reduced.
Rough Rice Grain Drying (BRSMG CONAI) at Temperatures of 60 and 80°C in Oven
Authors: Silva J.V. , Franco C.M.R. , Pereira E.M.A. , Andrade T.H.F. , Barbosa de Lima A.G.
Published: July 2016

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a greatly important socio-economic crop. Immediate threshing and drying of wet harvested grains, to reach 18–19% (w.b) moisture content, is a practical method used by individual farmers to slow deterioration and increase selling prices. However, rough rice grain is different from other grains because it has an outer cover shell (palea and lemma) and a bran layer. Thus, the heat and mass transfer processes that take place during grain drying are different from those of other cereal grains, so understanding the effect of different treatments, drying temperature, moisture content and the gradients in rice grains is essential to optimize the drying conditions. In this sense, the current study aims to analyze the moisture removal and its effects on the stress cracking and the number of brown rice grains (BRSMG CONAI variety) at the temperatures of 60 and 80°C.
Hydrogen Behavior in NdRh3-Based Hydrides
Authors: Lushnikov Stepan Alexandrovich , Filippova Tatyana Victorovna
Published: July 2016

Samples of desorbed NdRh3-based hydrides have been investigated by the X-ray diffraction method. X-ray data analysis showed that the samples contain two phases with hexagonal and cubic lattices. It was revealed that proportion of these phases in the samples depends on the rate of heating before the hydrogen desorption. At high rates of the heating in the desorbed samples amount of the phase with cubic lattice increased. This behaviour of the hydrogen in hydrides can be explained by the difference in the diffusion of disordered and ordered hydrogen atoms.
Investigating Kirkendall Effect in Thin Films
Authors: Tomán János J. , Iguchi Yusuke , Gajdics Bence
Published: July 2016

In binary systems Kirkendall shift is a well-known phenomenon. We investigated nanoscale diffusion in the framework of a recently published continuum model [Erdélyi and Schmitz, Acta. Mater. 60 (2012) 1807]. In thin films the usual vacancy creation and annihilation mechanisms, leading to the Kirkendall shift on larger scales, cannot operate in the same way. On this length-scale the characteristic distances between vacancy sinks and sources can be comparable to the dimension of the sample, causing differences in the development of the Kirkendall effect. Our group recently reported results in simulating nanoscale Kirkendall shift. In present work we show how using conventional method for velocity reconstruction used in multifoil experiments can be misleading if the distribution of vacancy sinks and sources is not uniform.
Fabrication of Foam-Type Porous Silicon Carbide without Cracks and Hollow Struts
Authors: Bang Jeong Won , Kim Soo Ryong , Kim Young Hee , Shin Dong Geun , Lee Yoon Joo , Lee Hyun Jae , Kwon Woo Teck
Published: July 2016

Foam-type porous silicon carbide (SiC) ceramics without cracks and hollow struts were fabricated using the polymer replica method with polycarbosilane (PCS) and polyurethane (PU) foam as the starting materials. The synthesized porous SiC was analyzed using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The results revealed that a porous SiC ceramic structure was formed with a dense framework at a low temperature of 1200°C. During the heat-treatment process, the PCS experienced an organic–inorganic transformation and then converted to the SiC ceramics. It was determined that the organic–inorganic transformation of PCS, which was the stage of silicon oxycarbide formation, is affected by the curing condition. In this study, the optimum curing condition was determined to be an air atmosphere at 200°C for 7 h.
On the Consistency of the Darken Method with the Onsager Representation for Diffusion in Multicomponent Systems
Authors: Danielewski Marek , Zajusz Marek , Bożek Bogusław , Tkacz-Śmiech Katarzyna
Published: July 2016

A consistency between the Darken method and the Onsager representation for cross diffusion in multicomponent system is shown. The justification is made by defining new sets of forces and fluxes linearly interrelated by a symmetric matrix of phenomenological coefficients. For the first time, the system of the components having various molar volumes is treated in this way. It is shown that the transformation leaves the entropy production unchanged. As an example, the entropy production for interdiffusion in the ternary Co-Fe-Ni diffusion couple is calculated and compared with mixing entropy.
High Temperature Corrosion of Al Hot-Dipped Low Carbon Steels in N2/H2S-Mixed Gases
Authors: Abro Muhammad Ali , Lee Dong Bok
Published: July 2016

A low carbon steel was hot-dip aluminized, and corroded in the N2/0.4%H2S-mixed gas at 650-850°C for 20-50 h in order to find the effect of aluminizing on the high-temperature corrosion of the low carbon steel in the H2S environment. A thin Al topcoat and a thick Al-Fe alloy layer that consisted primarily of Al5Fe2 and some FeAl and Al3Fe formed on the surface after aluminizing. The corrosion rate increased with an increase in temperature. Hot-dip aluminizing increased the corrosion resistance of the carbon steel through forming a thin protective α-Al2O3 scale on the surface. The α-Al2O3 scale was susceptible to spallation. During corrosion, internal voids formed in the Al-Fe alloy layer, where the Al5Fe2, AlFe, and Al3Fe compounds gradually transformed through interdiffusion.
Multiphase Ni-Cr-Al Diffusion: Experiment and Simulations
Authors: Zajusz Marek , Bożek Bogdan , Tkacz-Śmiech Katarzyna , Berent K. , Danielewski Marek
Published: July 2016

Interdiffusion in two-phase Ni-Cr-Al diffusion couple was studied experimentally and simulated numerically. The diffusion multiples were prepared by hot isostatic pressing, HIP and post-annealing at 1200°C. The concentration profiles were measured with wide line EDS technique – a method suitable to study multiphases. Hence the diffusion paths were determined. The experimental profiles and diffusion paths were compared with numerical results simulated with application of the Darken bi-velocity method implemented to describe interdiffusion in a two-phase zone.
Characterization and Fracture Toughness on AISI 8620 with Hard Coatings
Authors: Doñu Ruiz M.A. , López Perrusquia N. , Sanchez Huerta D. , Torres San Miguel C.R. , Cortés Suárez V.J.
Published: July 2016

The present studies characterize and evaluate the fracture toughness at the surface AISI 8620 with hard coating. The hard coatings FeB and Fe2B were formed using the boriding dehydrated paste at temperatures 1223 and 1273 K with 6 and 8 h exposure time, respectively. The presence of hard coatings formed on the surface AISI 8620 were confirmed by the classical metallographic technique combined with X-ray diffraction analysis. The distribution of alloying elements was determined by Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). The fracture toughness of the hard coatings on AISI 8620 was estimated using a Vicker microindentation induced fracture testing of 15 and 35 μm from the surface, applying four load (0.49, 0.98,1.96 and N). The microcrack generated at the corner of the microindentation was considered as an experimental parameter and the tree model Palmqvist crack model was employed to determine the fracture toughness. The adherence of the hard coatings/substrate was evaluate in qualitative form though the VDI 3198 by testing Rockwell C and observed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The formation of hard layers was obtained in the range of 100-130 μm, results of XRD present phases FeB, Fe2B, CrB and MnB, the values obtained of Kc are in the range of 2.3 to 4.1 MPam1⁄2 and results of acceptable adhesion HF4 patterns for conditions 6 h of treatment
Cost-effectiveness of SHINE: A Telephone Translation of the Diabetes Prevention Program
Authors: Hollenbeak Christopher S. , Weinstock Ruth S. , Cibula Donald , Delahanty Linda M. , Trief Paula M.
Published: July 2016

Background

The Support, Health Information, Nutrition, and Exercise (SHINE) trial recently showed that a telephone adaptation of the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) lifestyle intervention was effective in reducing weight among patients with metabolic syndrome. The aim of this study is to determine whether a conference call (CC) adaptation was cost effective relative to an individual call (IC) adaptation of the DPP lifestyle intervention in the primary care setting.

Methods

We performed a stochastic cost-effectiveness analysis alongside a clinical trial comparing two telephone adaptations of the DPP lifestyle intervention. The primary outcomes were incremental cost-effectiveness ratios estimated for weight loss, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Costs were estimated from the perspective of society and included direct medical costs, indirect costs, and intervention costs.

Results

After one year, participants receiving the CC intervention accumulated fewer costs ($2,831 vs. $2,933) than the IC group, lost more weight (6.2 kg vs. 5.1 kg), had greater reduction in BMI (2.1 vs. 1.9), and had greater reduction in waist circumference (6.5 cm vs. 5.9 cm). However, participants in the CC group had fewer QALYs than those in the IC group (0.635 vs. 0.646). The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for CC vs. IC was $9,250/QALY, with a 48% probability of being cost-effective at a willingness-to-pay of $100,000/QALY.

Conclusions

CC delivery of the DPP was cost effective relative to IC delivery in the first year in terms of cost per clinical measure (weight lost, BMI, and waist circumference) but not in terms of cost per QALY, most likely because of the short time horizon.
Cancérologie comparée des hémopathies myéloides chroniques du chien et du chat : pour un bénéfice réciproque homme-animal
Authors: Beurlet Stéphanie
Published: July 2016

La pathologie comparée en cancérologie offre une opportunité pour comprendre les mécanismes moléculaires à l’origine des cancers. Les hémopathies myéloïdes chroniques des carnivores domestiques sont des maladies rares dont le diagnostic est parfois difficile. Elles regroupent les syndromes myéloprolifératifs et les syndromes myélodysplasiques. La découverte de mécanismes moléculaires communs chez l’homme et l’animal, à l’origine de ces cancers, contribue au développement de nouveaux outils diagnostiques performants et de stratégies thérapeutiques innovantes aux bénéfices réciproques.
Comprendre la manière dont l’animal perçoit et évalue son environnement pour réduire son stress en abattoir : exemple chez les bovins
Authors: Bourguet Cécile , Deiss Véronique , Terlouw Claudia
Published: July 2016

L’abattage démarre dès la préparation de l’animal en élevage pour le départ à l’abattoir et s’achève avec la mort de l’animal. C’est une période complexe : au cours des différentes étapes de l’abattage, des sources de stress d’origine physique, émotionnelle, sociale et cognitive interviennent. Alors que celles d’origine physique sont bien connues, les autres le sont moins. Elles ont pourtant un impact significatif sur l’état de stress des bovins. En effet, les perturbations sociales, l’exposition à des événements nouveaux et/ ou soudains, les manipulations par l’homme ainsi que l’environnement visuel, sonore et olfactif sont autant de facteurs potentiellement stressants qui s’ajoutent et interagissent avec les contraintes physiques. Un certain nombre de conseils pratiques relatifs aux équipements et à la gestion des bovins permettent de limiter ces sources de stress. Associés à des observations du comportement des animaux au cours des différentes procédures de la période d’abattage, ils peuvent permettre de réduire considérablement le stress des bovins.
Overrepresentation of Diabetes in Soft Tissue Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Infections
Authors: Bridson Tahnee , Govan Brenda , Ketheesan Natkunam , Norton Robert
Published: July 2016

Diabetes predisposes patients to bacterial infections. Although diabetes confers susceptibility to tuberculosis, the association between nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections and diabetes remains unknown. A retrospective chart analysis of patients in northern Australia during a 20-year period with soft tissue NTM infections revealed that patients with diabetes were three times overrepresented in comparison to the general population (odds ratio = 3.13). There was a statistically significant association between NTM infections and diabetes in this patient cohort (P = 0.0082).
Reannotation of Yersinia pestis Strain 91001 Based on Omics Data
Authors: Mao Yiqing , Yang Xianwei , Liu Yang , Yan Yanfeng , Du Zongmin , Han Yanping , Song Yajun , Zhou Lei , Cui Yujun , Yang Ruifu
Published: July 2016

Yersinia pestis is among the most dangerous human pathogens, and systematic research of this pathogen is important in bacterial pathogenomics research. To fully interpret the biological functions, physiological characteristics, and pathogenesis of Y. pestis, a comprehensive annotation of its entire genome is necessary. The emergence of omics-based research has brought new opportunities to better annotate the genome of this pathogen. Here, the complete genome of Y. pestis strain 91001 was reannotated using genomics and proteogenomics data. One hundred and thirty-seven unreliable coding sequences were removed, and 41 homologous genes were relocated with their translational initiation sites, while the functions of seven pseudogenes and 392 hypothetical genes were revised. Moreover, annotations of noncoding RNAs, repeat sequences, and transposable elements have also been incorporated. The reannotated results are freely available at http://tody.bmi.ac.cn.
AutoSyP: A Low-Cost, Low-Power Syringe Pump for Use in Low-Resource Settings
Authors: Juarez Alexa , Maynard Kelley , Skerrett Erica , Molyneux Elizabeth , Richards-Kortum Rebecca , Dube Queen , Oden Z. Maria
Published: July 2016

This article describes the design and evaluation of AutoSyP, a low-cost, low-power syringe pump intended to deliver intravenous (IV) infusions in low-resource hospitals. A constant-force spring within the device provides mechanical energy to depress the syringe plunger. As a result, the device can run on rechargeable battery power for 66 hours, a critical feature for low-resource settings where the power grid may be unreliable. The device is designed to be used with 5- to 60-mL syringes and can deliver fluids at flow rates ranging from 3 to 60 mL/hour. The cost of goods to build one AutoSyP device is approximately $500. AutoSyP was tested in a laboratory setting and in a pilot clinical study. Laboratory accuracy was within 4% of the programmed flow rate. The device was used to deliver fluid to 10 healthy adult volunteers and 30 infants requiring IV fluid therapy at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre, Malawi. The device delivered fluid with an average mean flow rate error of −2.3% ± 1.9% for flow rates ranging from 3 to 60 mL/hour. AutoSyP has the potential to improve the accuracy and safety of IV fluid delivery in low-resource settings.
Personalized support for chronic conditions
Authors: D’Antrassi Pierluigi , Ajčević Miloš , Stellato Kira , Di Lenarda Andrea , Marceglia Sara , Accardo Agostino , Lasorsa Irene
Published: July 2016

Solutions for improving management of chronic conditions are under the attention of healthcare systems, due to the increasing prevalence caused by demographic change and better survival, and the relevant impact on healthcare expenditures. The objective of this study was to propose a comprehensive architecture of a mHealth system aimed at boosting the active and informed participation of patients in their care process, while at the same time overcoming the current technical and psychological/clinical issues highlighted by the existing literature.

After having studied the current challenges outlined in the literature, both in terms of technological and human requirements, we focused our attention on some specific psychological aspects with a view to providing patients with a comprehensive and personalized solution. Our approach has been reinforced through the results of a preliminary assessment we conducted on 22 patients with chronic conditions. The main goal of such an assessment was to provide a preliminary understanding of their needs in a real context, both in terms of self-awareness and of their predisposition toward the use of IT solutions.

According to the specific needs and features, such as mindfulness and gamification, which were identified through the literature and the preliminary assessment, we designed a comprehensive open architecture able to provide a tailor-made solution linked to specific individuals’ needs.

The present study represents the preliminary step towards the development of a solution aimed at enhancing patients’ actual perception and encouraging self-management and selfawareness for a better lifestyle. Future work regards further identification of pathology-related needs and requirements through focus groups including all stakeholders in order to describe the architecture and functionality in greater detail.

Citation: Lasorsa I, D’Antrassi P, Ajčević M, Stellato K, Di Lenarda A, Marceglia S, Accardo A. Personalized support for chronic conditions: a novel approach for enhancing self-management and improving lifestyle
The millennium water vapour drop in chemistry–climate model simulations
Authors: Brinkop Sabine , Dameris Martin , Jöckel Patrick , Garny Hella , Lossow Stefan , Stiller Gabriele
Published: July 2016

Abstract. This study investigates the abrupt and severe water vapour decline in the stratosphere beginning in the year 2000 (the "millennium water vapour drop") and other similarly strong stratospheric water vapour reductions by means of various simulations with the state-of-the-art Chemistry-Climate Model (CCM) EMAC (ECHAM/MESSy Atmospheric Chemistry Model). The model simulations differ with respect to the prescribed sea surface temperatures (SSTs) and whether nudging is applied or not. The CCM EMAC is able to most closely reproduce the signature and pattern of the water vapour drop in agreement with those derived from satellite observations if the model is nudged. Model results confirm that this extraordinary water vapour decline is particularly obvious in the tropical lower stratosphere and is related to a large decrease in cold point temperature. The drop signal propagates under dilution to the higher stratosphere and to the poles via the Brewer–Dobson circulation (BDC). We found that the driving forces for this significant decline in water vapour mixing ratios are tropical sea surface temperature (SST) changes due to a coincidence with a preceding strong El Niño–Southern Oscillation event (1997/1998) followed by a strong La Niña event (1999/2000) and supported by the change of the westerly to the easterly phase of the equatorial stratospheric quasi-biennial oscillation (QBO) in 2000. Correct (observed) SSTs are important for triggering the strong decline in water vapour. There are indications that, at least partly, SSTs contribute to the long period of low water vapour values from 2001 to 2006. For this period, the specific dynamical state of the atmosphere (overall atmospheric large-scale wind and temperature distribution) is important as well, as it causes the observed persistent low cold point temperatures. These are induced by a period of increased upwelling, which, however, has no corresponding pronounced signature in SSTs anomalies in the tropics. Our free-running simulations do not capture the drop as observed, because a) the cold point temperature has a low bias and thus the water vapour variability is reduced and b) because they do not simulate the appropriate dynamical state. Large negative water vapour declines are also found in other years and seem to be a feature which can be found after strong combined El Niño/La Niña events if the QBO west phase during La Niña changes to the east phase.