bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mathematical Model Defining Volumetric Losses of Hydraulic Oil Compression in a Variable Capacity Displacement Pump
Authors: Paszota Zygmunt
Published: February 2015

The objective of the work is to develop the capability of evaluating the volumetric losses of hydraulic oil compression in the working chambers of high pressure variable capacity displacement pump. Volumetric losses of oil compression must be determined as functions of the same parameters, which the volumetric losses due to leakage, resulting from the quality of design solution of the pump, are evaluated as dependent on and also as function of the oil aeration coefficient Ɛ. A mathematical model has been developed describing the hydraulic oil compressibility coefficient k

lc|Δppi;Ɛ;v
as a relation to the ratio ΔpPi/pn
of indicated increase Δp

Pi
of pressure in the working chambers and the nominal pressure pn, to the pump capacity coefficient bP
, to the oil aeration coefficient  and to the ratio v/vnof oil viscosity v and reference viscosity vn
. A mathematical model is presented of volumetric losses q

pvc

|ΔpPi;bp;;vof hydraulic oil compression in the pump working chambers in the form allowing to use it in the model of power of losses and energy efficiency
An Analysis of the Tvergaard Parameters at Low Initial Stress Triaxiality for S235JR Steel
Authors: G. Kossakowski Paweł
Published: February 2015

This paper discusses the influence of the Tvergaard parameters, qi, which are basic constants of the Gurson-Tvergaard-Needleman (GTN) material model, on the numerically simulated load-carrying capacity of tensile elements made of S235JR steel. The elements were considered to be under static tension at low initial stress triaxiality σm/σe = 1/3. Two sets of the Tvergaard parameters qi were analyzed: those typical of structural steels and those dependent on material strength properties. The results showed that the Tvergaard parameters, qi, had influence on the load-carrying capacity of tensile elements at low initial stress triaxiality. They affected the strength curves and the changes in the void volume fractions determined for S235JR steel elements
Physical Fields During Construction and Operation of Wind Farms by Example of Polish Maritime Areas
Authors: Otremba Zbigniew , Andrulewicz Eugeniusz
Published: February 2015

The article discusses an important issue of technical pressure exerted on the marine environment during construction and operation of maritime wind farms (MFW) on waters of the Polish Exclusive Economic Zone. A motivation for analysing this issue is the need for attracting attention to the aspect of physical field modification as the factor which links large scale technical activity at sea with the existence and functioning of the marine ecosystem, including further consequences to its economic benefits. Based on current knowledge and authors' analyses, the scale of modifications (disturbances) of physical fields expected to take place during MFW construction and operation was assessed.
Study of the Effectiveness of Different Kalman Filtering Methods and Smoothers in Object Tracking Based on Simulation Tests
Authors: Malinowski Marcin , Kwiecień Janusz
Published: February 2015

In navigation practice, there are various navigational architecture and integration strategies of measuring instruments that affect the choice of the Kalman filtering algorithm. The analysis of different methods of Kalman filtration and associated smoothers applied in object tracing was made on the grounds of simulation tests of algorithms designed and presented in this paper. EKF (Extended Kalman Filter) filter based on approximation with (jacobians) partial derivations and derivative-free filters like UKF (Unscented Kalman Filter) and CDKF (Central Difference Kalman Filter) were implemented in comparison. For each method of filtration, appropriate smoothers EKS (Extended Kalman Smoother), UKS (Unscented Kalman Smoother) and CDKS (Central Difference Kalman Smoother) were presented as well. Algorithms performance is discussed on the theoretical base and simulation results of two cases are presented.
Least Squares Collocation Alternative to Helmert’s Transformation with Hausbrandt’s Post – Transformation Correction
Authors: Ligas Marcin , Banasik Piotr
Published: February 2015

The paper presents a least squares collocation - based alternative to Helmert’s transformation with Hausbrandt’s post – transformation correction. The least squares collocation is used as an exact predictor i.e. it honors the data, thus the problem of zero residuals on transformation control points is overcome and zero residuals are assured by the method applied. Despite the fact that the procedure is presented for Helmert’s transformation it may easily be copied to any other form of coordinate transformation. A numerical example is provided within the content of the paper.
Precision Analysis of Trimble Rtx Surveying Technology with Xfill Function in the Context of Obtained Conversion Observations
Authors: Krzyżek Robert
Published: February 2015

As a result of traditional geodetic surveying we usually achieve observations which are then used for calculating rectangular coordinates onto a plane along with precision evaluation. In this article the surveying methods are presented in which the situation is different. Test measurements were carried out, consisting in the measurement of a fragment of detailed control network in RTK (Real Time Kinematic) and RTX (Real Time Extended) mode with xFill function. First, the rectangular coordinates onto a plane (through the transformation of data ellipsoidal) were obtained, on the basis of which the conversion observations were determined and they were compared with each other, as well as with reference parameters - conversion observations out of detailed control network adjustment with use of the method of least squares. The results of the study allow to verify the precision and application possibilities of conversion observations obtained thanks to Trimble RTX technology with xFill function. Application of this surveying method in typical geodetic tasks is fully justifiable. Nevertheless, it is recommendable to be aware of the correlations of absolute or relative values obtained in RTX procedure to reference parameters, which in turn will enable conclusive verification of the possibilities of Trimble RTX technology application in certain geodetic surveys.
Changes in Quadriceps and Hamstring Cocontraction Following Landing Instruction in Patients With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Elias Audrey R.C. , Hammill Curt D. , Mizner Ryan L.
Published: February 2015

Study Design

Pretest/posttest controlled laboratory study.

Objectives

To determine changes in the neuromuscular activation of the quadriceps and hamstrings following instructions aimed at improving knee flexion during a single-limb landing task in persons who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

Background

Clinicians advise patients who have undergone ACLR to increase knee flexion during landing tasks to improve impact attenuation. Another long-standing construct underlying such instruction involves increasing cocontraction of the hamstrings with the quadriceps to limit anterior shear of the tibia on the femur. The current study examined whether cocontraction of the knee musculature changes following instruction to increase knee flexion during landing.

Methods

Thirty-four physically active subjects with unilateral ACLR participated in a 1-time testing session. The kinetics and kinematics of single-leg landing on the surgical limb were analyzed before and after instruction to increase knee flexion and reduce the impact of landing. Vastus lateralis and biceps femoris activities were analyzed using surface electromyography and normalized to a maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC). Cocontraction indices were integrated over the weight-acceptance phase of landing.

Results

Following instruction, peak knee flexion increased (preinstruction mean ± SD, 56° ± 11°; postinstruction, 77° ± 12°; P<.001) and peak vertical ground reaction forces decreased (preinstruction, 3.50 ± 0.42 body mass; postinstruction, 3.06 ± 0.44 body mass; P<.001). Cocontraction also decreased following instruction (preinstruction, 30.88% ± 17.68% MVIC; postinstruction, 23.74% ± 15.39% MVIC; P<.001). The change in cocontraction was correlated with a decrease in hamstring activity (preinstruction, 23.79% ± 12.88% MVIC; postinstruction, 19.72% ± 13.92% MVIC; r = 0.80; P<.001).

Conclusion

Landing instruction produced both a statistically and clinically significant change in landing mechanics in persons post-ACLR. Conscious improvement of the absorptive power of the surgical limb was marked by decreased hamstring activity and cocontraction during single-limb landing. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2015;45(4):273–280. Epub 13 Feb 2015. doi:10.2519/jospt.2015.5335
Editorial
Authors: Weber Heike , Mom Gijs
Published: February 2015

The final months of 2014 have seen many critical events in respect to mobility:
Apple introduced its Apple Watch, a cyborg technology that adds a novel,
substantially corporeal layer to our “always on” connectedness—what Sherry
Turkle has termed the “tethered self.”1 Moreover, it is said to revolutionize
mobile paying systems, and it might finally implement mobile body monitoring
techniques into daily life.2 Ebola is terrorizing Africa and frightening the
world; its outbreak and spread is based on human mobility, and researchers
are calling for better control and quantifi cation of human mobility in the affected
regions to contain the disease.3 Even its initial spread from animals to
humans may have had its origin in human transgressions beyond traditional
habitats, by intruding into insular bush regions and using the local fruit bats
as food. Due to global mobility patterns, the viral passenger switched transport
modes, from animal to airplane. On the other hand, private space fl ight
suff ered two serious setbacks in just one week when the Antares rocket of Orbital
Sciences, with supplies for the International Space Station and satellites
on board, exploded, and shortly after, SpaceShipTwo crashed over the Mojave
Desert. Th ese catastrophic failures ignited wide media discussion on the challenges,
dangers, and signifi cance of space mobility, its ongoing commercialization
and privatization, and, in particular, plans for future manned space
travel for “tourists.”4
The Map and the Territory
Authors: Skåden Kristina
Published: February 2015

In transnational history of traffic, transport, and mobility, historians have been arguing for studying organizations as “transnational system builders” in the establishment and modification of transnational infrastructure. Emphasis has been placed on examining human actors. Here, I argue that the role of material objects, the nonhuman actors, should also be taken into account by investigating how a particular map matters. The major research issue is, therefore: How can we understand and analyze how the Nazi regime put the map Deutschlandkarte displayed at the exhibition Die Strasse (Munich, 1934) into play? In addition, how did the map figure in transnational system building during and after the seventh International Road Congress arranged by the Permanent International Association of Road Congresses? Insights from transnational history in the fields of traffic, transport, and mobility as well as material cultural studies, critical mapping, and actor-network theory inform this article.
Road Works
Authors: Merriman Peter
Published: February 2015

Roads may be represented in many different media and cultural forms, from planning documents and maps to postage stamps, children's books, and postcards. While there has been a tendency among some scholars to study representations for what they can tell us about the history of particular road schemes, this article argues that roads are constructed and consumed as much through paper plans, financial calculations, popular representations, and public imaginations as through concrete and steel on the ground. Representations of roads “matter,” and the article suggests that scholars should study the broad array of representations through which the meanings of roads are produced, circulated, and consumed.
Frontiers of Mobilities Studies
Authors: Clarsen Georgine
Published: February 2015

Since its inception, this journal has been at the leading edge of publishing research that rethinks mobilities from a humanities perspective. We learned much in the process. A plenary panel held at the T2M conference in Drexel University in September 2014 reflected on the experiences of our editorial team and announced our plans to organize our future work through a number of broad portfolios. Each invites/dares our contributors to take our thinking into new territory.
Interstitial radiotherapy using phosphorus-32 for giant posterior fossa cystic craniopharyngiomas
Authors: Yu Xin , Zhang Jianning , Liu Rui , Wang Yaming , Wang Hongwei , Wang Peng , Chen Jinhui , Liu Song
Published: February 2015

OBJECT

The treatment for giant posterior fossa cystic craniopharyngiomas remains an important challenge in neurosurgery. The authors evaluated the effects of treating 20 patients with giant posterior fossa cystic craniopharyngiomas using phosphorus-32 (P-32) interstitial radiotherapy at their hospital.

METHODS

The patients included 11 boys and 9 girls with an age range of 3 to 168 months. Before treatment, the tumor volumes ranged from 65 to 215 ml. The intracranial pressure was increased in 16 patients, and optic nerve damage had occurred in 18. The patients received P-32 interstitial radiotherapy following stereotactic cyst-fluid aspiration or drainage and were followed up for 7–138 months.

RESULTS

The treatment immediately relieved the intracranial hypertension symptoms in all patients. At the end of follow-up, imaging examinations revealed that the cystic tumors had disappeared, but some residual calcification remained in 12 patients, and had decreased by more than 75% of the initial volume in 8 patients. The damaged optic nerve recovered in 3 cases, improved in 12 cases, remained unchanged in 1 case, and was aggravated in 2 cases. No other severe complications related to surgery or interstitial radiation occurred. During the follow-up period, 7 new cysts appeared in 5 patients who had received additional interstitial radiotherapies with a dose of P-32 that was calculated using the same formula as for the initial treatment. The new tumors then disappeared in 2 patients, significantly shrank in 2 patients, and progressed in 1 patient.

CONCLUSIONS

For treating giant posterior fossa cystic craniopharyngiomas, P-32 interstitial radiation after stereotactic cyst-fluid aspiration or drainage can achieve a high tumor control rate and has relatively satisfactory clinical effects and quality of life outcomes with few complications.
Preliminary experience with an intraoperative MRI-compatible infant headholder: technical note
Authors: Boop Frederick A. , Bate Berkeley , Choudhri Asim F. , Burkholder Brian , Klimo Paul
Published: February 2015

The development of high-quality intraoperative MRI (iMRI) capability has offered a major advance in the care of patients with complex intracranial disease. To date, this technology has been limited by the need for pin fixation of the calvaria. The authors report their preliminary experience with an MRI-compatible horseshoe headrest that allows for the following: 1) iMRI in patients too young for pin fixation; 2) iMRI in patients with large calvarial defects; 3) the ability to move the head during iMRI surgery; and 4) the use of neuronavigation in such cases. The authors report 2 cases of infants in whom the Visius Surgical Theatre horseshoe headrest (IMRIS Inc.) was used. Image quality was equivalent to that of pin fixation. The infants suffered no skin issues. The use of neuronavigation with the system remained accurate and could be updated with the new iMRI information. The Visius horseshoe headrest offers a technical advance in iMRI technology for infants, for patients with cranial defects or prior craniotomies in whom pin fixation may not be safe, or for patients in whom the need to move the head during surgery is required. The image quality of the system remains excellent, and the ability to merge new images to the neuronavigation system is helpful.
Endoscopic endonasal atlantoaxial transarticular screw fixation technique: an anatomical feasibility and biomechanical study
Authors: Mendes George A. C. , Dickman Curtis A. , Rodriguez-Martinez Nestor G. , Kalb Samuel , Crawford Neil R. , Sonntag Volker K. H. , Preul Mark C. , Little Andrew S.
Published: February 2015

OBJECT

The primary disadvantage of the posterior cervical approach for atlantoaxial stabilization after odontoidectomy is that it is conducted as a second-stage procedure. The goal of the current study is to assess the surgical feasibility and biomechanical performance of an endoscopic endonasal surgical technique for C1–2 fixation that may eliminate the need for posterior fixation after odontoidectomy.

METHODS

The first step of the study was to perform endoscopic endonasal anatomical dissections of the craniovertebral junction in 10 silicone-injected fixed cadaveric heads to identify relevant anatomical landmarks. The second step was to perform a quantitative analysis using customized software in 10 reconstructed adult cervical spine CT scans to identify the optimal screw entry point and trajectory. The third step was biomechanical flexibility testing of the construct and comparison with the posterior C1–2 transarticular fixation in 14 human cadaveric specimens.

RESULTS

Adequate surgical exposure and identification of the key anatomical landmarks, such as C1–2 lateral masses, the C-1 anterior arch, and the odontoid process, were provided by the endonasal endoscopic approach in all specimens. Radiological analysis of anatomical detail suggested that the optimal screw entry point was on the anterior aspect of the C-1 lateral mass near the midpoint, and the screw trajectory was inferiorly and slightly laterally directed. The custommade angled instrumentation was crucial for screw placement. Biomechanical analysis suggested that anterior C1–2 fixation compared favorably to posterior fixation by limiting flexion-extension, axial rotation, and lateral bending (p > 0.3).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study that demonstrates the feasibility of an endoscopic endonasal technique for C1–2 fusion. This novel technique may have clinical utility by eliminating the need for a second-stage posterior fixation operation in certain patients undergoing odontoidectomy.
Characteristics of Rathke's cleft cyst based on cyst location with a primary focus on recurrence after resection
Authors: Chotai Silky , Liu Yi , Pan Jun , Qi Songtao
Published: February 2015

OBJECT

Rathke's cleft cysts (RCCs) are benign lesions with a location that is entirely intrasellar, intrasellar with suprasellar extension (intrasuprasellar), or purely suprasellar. The recurrence of RCC is relatively uncommon. The present study was conducted to report clinical characteristics, histological features, and outcomes based on location of the cyst with a primary focus on analyzing the predictors of squamous metaplasia and recurrence in these 3 types of RCCs.

METHODS

A retrospective review of the medical records of patients with symptomatic RCCs who had undergone resection at the authors' institution was conducted. Data points, including clinical presentation, preoperative endocrine status, operative details, imaging findings, pathology, and clinical outcomes, were reviewed. A multivariable regression model was used to identify predictors of recurrence.

RESULTS

The mean age of the 87 eligible patients, 64 females and 23 males, was 41 ± 14 years (range 10–73 years). Sixteen patients (18%) had an entirely intrasellar RCC, 21 (24%) had a purely suprasellar cyst, and 50 (58%) had an intrasuprasellar RCC. The mean cyst volume was 2.4 ± 0.9 cm3 (range 0.36–4.9 cm3). Headache was the most frequent initial symptom (76%) followed by visual disturbance (45%). The transsphenoidal approach was performed for all intrasellar RCCs (16 cysts) and 33 of 50 intrasuprasellar RCCs. The transcranial route was used for all suprasellar cysts (21 cysts) and 17 of 50 intrasuprasellar RCCs. Squamous metaplasia was present in 27 (31%) of 87 RCCs. The occurrence of squamous metaplasia was associated with cyst location (p = 0.027), T1 signal intensity (p = 0.004) and ring enhancement on Gd-enhanced MRI (p = 0.017), and cyst volume (p = 0.045). A suprasellar location (p = 0.048, OR 3.89, 95% CI 1.010–15.020), ring enhancement on Gd-enhanced MRI (p = 0.028, OR 3.922, 95% CI 1.158–13.288), hypointensity on T1-weighted MRI (p = 0.002, OR 6.86, 95% CI 1.972–23.909), and cyst volume (p = 0.01, OR 0.367, 95% CI 0.170–0.789) were independent predictors of squamous metaplasia. The mean time to reaccumulation (11 [12.6%] of 87 cases) and recurrence (7 [8%] of 87 cases) was 14 ± 6 months. Recurrence-free survival was 84.5% at a mean of 98.2 ± 4.6 months after treatment. A suprasellar cyst location (p = 0.007, OR 7.7, 95% CI 1.75–34.54), the occurrence of squamous metaplasia (p = 0.007, OR 19.3, 95% CI 2.25–165.18), and isointensity on T2-weighted MRI (p = 0.041, OR 10.29, 95% CI 1.094–96.872) were the independent predictors of RCC recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

A suprasellar cyst location, the occurrence of squamous metaplasia, and isointensity on T2-weighted MRI were independent predictors of RCC recurrence. The extent of resection and type of surgical approach used were not associated with recurrence. A tailored extent of resection based on cyst location and predictive factors is recommended.
Molecular Recognition of PTS-1 Cargo Proteins by Pex5p: Implications for Protein Mistargeting in Primary Hyperoxaluria
Authors: Mesa-Torres Noel , Tomic Nenad , Albert Armando , Salido Eduardo , Pey Angel
Published: February 2015

Peroxisomal biogenesis and function critically depends on the import of cytosolic proteins carrying a PTS1 sequence into this organelle upon interaction with the peroxin Pex5p. Recent structural studies have provided important insights into the molecular recognition of cargo proteins by Pex5p. Peroxisomal import is a key feature in the pathogenesis of primary hyperoxaluria type 1 (PH1), where alanine:glyoxylate aminotransferase (AGT) undergoes mitochondrial mistargeting in about a third of patients. Here, we study the molecular recognition of PTS1 cargo proteins by Pex5p using oligopeptides and AGT variants bearing different natural PTS1 sequences, and employing an array of biophysical, computational and cell biology techniques. Changes in affinity for Pex5p (spanning over 3–4 orders of magnitude) reflect different thermodynamic signatures, but overall bury similar amounts of molecular surface. Structure/energetic analyses provide information on the contribution of ancillary regions and the conformational changes induced in Pex5p and the PTS1 cargo upon complex formation. Pex5p stability in vitro is enhanced upon cargo binding according to their binding affinities. Moreover, we provide evidence that the rational modulation of the AGT: Pex5p binding affinity might be useful tools to investigate mistargeting and misfolding in PH1 by pulling the folding equilibria towards the native and peroxisomal import competent state.
Selective Oxidation of Raw Glycerol Using Supported AuPd Nanoparticles
Authors: Chan-Thaw Carine , Campisi Sebastiano , Wang Di , Prati Laura , Villa Alberto
Published: February 2015

Bimetallic AuPd supported on different carbonaceous materials and TiO2 was tested in the liquid phase oxidation of commercial grade and raw glycerol. The latter was directly obtained from the base-catalyzed transesterification of edible rapeseed oil using KOH. The best catalytic results were obtained using activated carbon and nitrogen-functionalized carbon nanofibers as supports. In fact, the catalysts were more active using pure glycerol instead of the one obtained from rapeseed, where strong deactivation phenomena were present. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and TEM were utilized to investigate the possible reasons for the observed loss of activity.
Controlled Deposition of Tin Oxide and Silver Nanoparticles Using Microcontact Printing
Authors: Chan Joo , Hannah-Moore Nicole , Rananavare Shankar
Published: February 2015

This report describes extensive studies of deposition processes involving tin oxide (SnOx) nanoparticles on smooth glass surfaces. We demonstrate the use of smooth films of these nanoparticles as a platform for spatially-selective electroless deposition of silver by soft lithographic stamping. The edge and height roughness of the depositing metallic films are 100 nm and 20 nm, respectively, controlled by the intrinsic size of the nanoparticles. Mixtures of alcohols as capping agents provide further control over the size and shape of nanoparticles clusters. The distribution of cluster heights obtained by atomic force microscopy (AFM) is modeled through a modified heterogeneous nucleation theory as well as Oswald ripening. The thermodynamic modeling of the wetting properties of nanoparticles aggregates provides insight into their mechanism of formation and how their properties might be further exploited in wide-ranging applications.
Tuning of the PI Controller Parameters of a PMSG Wind Turbine to Improve Control Performance under Various Wind Speeds
Authors: Kim Yun-Su , Chung Il-Yop , Moon Seung-Il
Published: February 2015

This paper presents a method to seek the PI controller parameters of a PMSG wind turbine to improve control performance. Since operating conditions vary with the wind speed, therefore the PI controller parameters should be determined as a function of the wind speed. Small-signal modeling of a PMSG WT is implemented to analyze the stability under various operating conditions and with eigenvalues obtained from the small-signal model of the PMSG WT, which are coordinated by adjusting the PI controller parameters. The parameters to be tuned are chosen by investigating participation factors of state variables, which simplifies the problem by reducing the number of parameters to be tuned. The process of adjusting these PI controller parameters is carried out using particle swarm optimization (PSO). To characterize the improvements in the control method due to the PSO method of tuning the PI controller parameters, the PMSG WT is modeled using the MATLAB/SimPowerSystems libraries with the obtained PI controller parameters.
Chemical Characterization of Outdoor and Subway Fine (PM2.5–1.0) and Coarse (PM10–2.5) Particulate Matter in Seoul (Korea) by Computer-Controlled Scanning Electron Microscopy (CCSEM)
Authors: Byeon Sang-Hoon , Willis Robert , Peters Thomas
Published: February 2015

Outdoor and indoor (subway) samples were collected by passive sampling in urban Seoul (Korea) and analyzed with computer-controlled scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (CCSEM-EDX). Soil/road dust particles accounted for 42%–60% (by weight) of fine particulate matter larger than 1 µm (PM2.5–1.0) in outdoor samples and 18% of PM2.5–1.0 in subway samples. Iron-containing particles accounted for only 3%–6% in outdoor samples but 69% in subway samples. Qualitatively similar results were found for coarse particulate matter (PM10–2.5) with soil/road dust particles dominating outdoor samples (66%–83%) and iron-containing particles contributing most to subway PM10–2.5 (44%). As expected, soil/road dust particles comprised a greater mass fraction of PM10–2.5 than PM2.5–1.0. Also as expected, the mass fraction of iron-containing particles was substantially less in PM10–2.5 than in PM2.5–1.0. Results of this study are consistent with known emission sources in the area and with previous studies, which showed high concentrations of iron-containing particles in the subway compared to outdoor sites. Thus, passive sampling with CCSEM-EDX offers an inexpensive means to assess PM2.5–1.0 and PM10-2.5 simultaneously and by composition at multiple locations.
Genetic Polymorphisms in Estrogen-Related Genes and the Risk of Breast Cancer among Han Chinese Women
Authors: Sun Min-Ying , Du Hong-Yan , Zhu An-Na , Liang Hui-Ying , De Garibay Gorka , Li Fen-Xia , Li Ming , Yang Xue-Xi
Published: February 2015

Exposure to high levels of estrogen is considered an important risk factor for susceptibility to breast cancer. Common polymorphisms in genes that affect estrogen levels may be associated with breast cancer risk, but no comprehensive study has been performed among Han Chinese women. In the present study, 32 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in estrogen-related genes were genotyped using the MassARRAY IPLEX platform in 1076 Han Chinese women. Genotypic and allelic frequencies were compared between case and control groups. Unconditional logistic regression was used to assess the effects of SNPs on breast cancer risk. Associations were also evaluated for breast cancer subtypes stratified by estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) status. Case-control analysis showed a significant relation between heterozygous genotypes of rs700519 and rs2069522 and breast cancer risk (OR = 0.723, 95% CI = 0.541–0.965, p = 0.028 and OR = 1.500, 95% CI = 1.078–2.087, p = 0.016, respectively). Subgroup comparisons revealed that rs2446405 and rs17268974 were related to ER status, and rs130021 was associated with PR status. Our findings suggest that rs700519 and rs2069522 are associated with susceptibility to breast cancer among the Han Chinese population and have a cumulative effect with three other identified SNPs. Further genetic and functional studies are needed to identify additional SNPs, and to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.
Hot Deformation Behavior of Ti-3.5Al-5Mo-6V-3Cr-2Sn-0.5Fe Alloy in α + β Field
Authors: Du Zhaoxin , Xiao Shulong , Liu Jingshun , Lv Shufeng , Xu Lijuan , Kong Fantao , Chen Yuyong
Published: February 2015

The deformation behavior of Ti-3.5Al-5Mo-6V-3Cr-2Sn-0.5Fe high strength β titanium alloy is systematically investigated by isothermal compression in α + β field with the deformation temperatures ranging from 1003 K to 1078 K, the strain rates ranging from 0.001 s−1 to 1 s−1 and the height reduction is around 50%. Essentially, the flow stress-strain curve of isothermal compression in α + β field exhibits a flow softening feature when the strain rate is higher than 0.1 s−1 as while it exhibits a steady-state feature as the strain rate is lower than 0.1 s−1. The peak stress increases with a decrease in deformation temperature and the increase of strain rate. The activation energy for deformation in α + β field was calculated and the average activation energy of 271.1 kJ/mol. The microstructure observation reveals that the isothermal deformation in the α + β field of the alloy is mainly controlled by the dynamic recovery mechanism accompanied with the secondary dynamic recrystallizitation of β phase. The α phase shows an obvious pinning effect for the movement of dislocations. During deformation, the α phase was elongated and fragmented.
Investigation of Material Performance Degradation for High-Strength Aluminum Alloy Using Acoustic Emission Method
Authors: Ai Yibo , Sun Chang , Que Hongbo , Zhang Weidong
Published: February 2015

Structural materials damages are always in the form of micro-defects or cracks. Traditional or conventional methods such as micro and macro examination, tensile, bend, impact and hardness tests can be used to detect the micro damage or defects. However, these tests are destructive in nature and not in real-time, thus a non-destructive and real-time monitoring and characterization of the material damage is needed. This study is focused on the application of a non-destructive and real-time acoustic emission (AE) method to study material performance degradation of a high-strength aluminum alloy of high-speed train gearbox shell. By applying data relative analysis and interpretation of AE signals, the characteristic parameters of materials performance were achieved and the failure criteria of the characteristic parameters for the material tensile damage process were established. The results show that the AE method and signal analysis can be used to accomplish the non-destructive and real-time detection of the material performance degradation process of the high-strength aluminum alloy. This technique can be extended to other engineering materials.
Urine and Serum Metabolite Profiling of Rats Fed a High-Fat Diet and the Anti-Obesity Effects of Caffeine Consumption
Authors: Kim Hyang , Lee Mee , Park Hye , Park Yoo , Shon Jong , Liu Kwang-Hyeon , Lee Choong
Published: February 2015

In this study, we investigated the clinical changes induced by a high fat diet (HFD) and caffeine consumption in a rat model. The mean body weight of the HFD with caffeine (HFDC)-fed rat was decreased compared to that of the HFD-fed rat without caffeine. The levels of cholesterol, triglycerides (TGs), and free fatty acid, as well as the size of adipose tissue altered by HFD, were improved by caffeine consumption. To investigate the metabolites that affected the change of the clinical factors, the urine and serum of rats fed a normal diet (ND), HFD, and HFDC were analyzed using ultra performance liquid chromatography quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS), gas chromatography (GC-TOF-MS), and linear trap quadruple mass spectrometry (LTQ-XL-MS) combined with multivariate analysis. A total of 68 and 52 metabolites were found to be different in urine and serum, respectively. After being fed caffeine, some glucuronide-conjugated compounds, lysoPCs, CEs, DGs, TGs, taurine, and hippuric acid were altered compared to the HFD group. In this study, caffeine might potentially inhibit HFD-induced obesity and we suggest possible biomarker candidates using MS-based metabolite profiling.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of N-Substituted-β-amino Acid Derivatives Containing 2-Hydroxyphenyl, Benzo[b]phenoxazine and Quinoxaline Moieties
Authors: Mickevičienė Kristina , Baranauskaitė Rūta , Kantminienė Kristina , Stasevych Maryna , Komarovska-Porokhnyavets Olena , Novikov Volodymyr
Published: February 2015

3-[(2-Hydroxyphenyl)amino]butanoic and 3-[(2-hydroxy-5-methyl(chloro)phenyl)amino]butanoic acids were converted to a series of derivatives containing hydrazide, pyrrole and chloroquinoxaline moieties. The corresponding benzo[b]phenoxazine derivatives were synthesized by the reaction of the obtained compounds with 2,3-dichloro-1,4-naphthoquinone. Five of the synthesized compounds exhibited good antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Mycobacterium luteum, whereas three compounds showed significant antifungal activity against Candida tenuis and Aspergillus niger.
Hitting the Bull’s-Eye in Metastatic Cancers—NSAIDs Elevate ROS in Mitochondria, Inducing Malignant Cell Death
Authors: Ralph Stephen , Pritchard Rhys , Rodríguez-Enríquez Sara , Moreno-Sánchez Rafael , Ralph Raymond
Published: February 2015

Tumor metastases that impede the function of vital organs are a major cause of cancer related mortality. Mitochondrial oxidative stress induced by hypoxia, low nutrient levels, or other stresses, such as genotoxic events, act as key drivers of the malignant changes in primary tumors to enhance their progression to metastasis. Emerging evidence now indicates that mitochondrial modifications and mutations resulting from oxidative stress, and leading to OxPhos stimulation and/or enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, are essential for promoting and sustaining the highly metastatic phenotype. Moreover, the modified mitochondria in emerging or existing metastatic cancer cells, by their irreversible differences, provide opportunities for selectively targeting their mitochondrial functions with a one-two punch. The first blow would block their anti-oxidative defense, followed by the knockout blow—promoting production of excess ROS, capitulating the terminal stage—activation of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), specifically killing metastatic cancer cells or their precursors. This review links a wide area of research relevant to cellular mechanisms that affect mitochondria activity as a major source of ROS production driving the pro-oxidative state in metastatic cancer cells. Each of the important aspects affecting mitochondrial function are discussed including: hypoxia, HIFs and PGC1 induced metabolic changes, increased ROS production to induce a more pro-oxidative state with reduced antioxidant defenses. It then focuses on how the mitochondria, as a major source of ROS in metastatic cancer cells driving the pro-oxidative state of malignancy enables targeting drugs affecting many of these altered processes and why the NSAIDs are an excellent example of mitochondria-targeted agents that provide a one-two knockout activating the mPTP and their efficacy as selective anticancer metastasis drugs.
Comparative Analysis of GF-1 WFV, ZY-3 MUX, and HJ-1 CCD Sensor Data for Grassland Monitoring Applications
Authors: Wang Lei , Yang Ranran , Tian Qingjiu , Yang Yanjun , Zhou Yang , Sun Yuan , Mi Xiaofei
Published: February 2015

The increasing number of Chinese sensor types used for terrestrial remote sensing has necessitated an additional effort to evaluate and standardize the data they acquire. In this study, we assessed the potential use of GF-1 WFV (Wild Field Camera), ZY-3 MUX (Multi-spectral camera), and HJ-1 CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor data for grassland monitoring by comparing spectral field measurements, vegetation coverage, and the leaf area index (LAI) of grassland stands with reflectance in the red and near-infrared bands and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). Based on spectral field measurements, the characteristic differences of spectral response functions of the sensors were analyzed. Based on simulations using the SAIL bidirectional canopy reflectance model coupled with the PROSPECT leaf optical properties model (PROSAIL), we investigated the effects of changes in the sensors’ zenith angle caused by side sway. The following conclusions were drawn. (1) Differences in the adjusted coefficients of determination (R2) exist when comparing correlations between the reflectances from the three sensor types in different bands. The values of R2 are 0.556–0.893 and 0.819–0.850 for the infrared and red bands, respectively, and these data show a better correlation for the red band than for the infrared band. Fitted slope equations revealed inconsistencies in the data between the different sensor types. In the red band, GF-1 WFV and HJ-1 CCD data are the most consistent, but in the near-infrared band, GF-1 WFV and ZY-3 MUX data are the most consistent; (2) The correlation of NDVIs obtained from the different sensor types is high (R2 between 0.758 and 0.852); however, the consistency is low in that the NDVI based on GF-1 WFV data is significantly higher than that based on ZY-3 MUX and HJ-1 CCD data. In contrast, the mean difference is small between the NDVIs based on ZY-3 MUX and HJ-1 CCD; (3) Correlation analysis between ground grass-coverage and measured LAI data shows that the three sensor types are better at estimating coverage than the LAI, and that the GF-1 WFV sensor gave the best performance; (4) Changes in the sensors’ zenith angle caused by side sway were proven to have greater impact on reflectance and NDVI than the spectral response function; (5) For LAI values of 0–3, the NDVI changes significantly with increasing LAI, and differences between the three sensor types are obvious. For LAI > 3.5, the NDVI appears to experience a saturated tendency, which greatly reduces the differences between the sensors.
A Choline Oxidase Amperometric Bioassay for the Detection of Mustard Agents Based on Screen-Printed Electrodes Modified with Prussian Blue Nanoparticles
Authors: Arduini Fabiana , Scognamiglio Viviana , Covaia Corrado , Amine Aziz , Moscone Danila , Palleschi Giuseppe
Published: February 2015

In this work a novel bioassay for mustard agent detection was proposed. The bioassay is based on the capability of these compounds to inhibit the enzyme choline oxidase. The enzymatic activity, which is correlated to the mustard agents, was electrochemically monitored measuring the enzymatic product, hydrogen peroxide, by means of a screen-printed electrode modified with Prussian Blue nanoparticles. Prussian Blue nanoparticles are able to electrocatalyse the hydrogen peroxide concentration reduction at low applied potential (−50 mV vs. Ag/AgCl), thus allowing the detection of the mustard agents with no electrochemical interferences. The suitability of this novel bioassay was tested with the nitrogen mustard simulant bis(2-chloroethyl)amine and the sulfur mustard simulants 2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide and 2-chloroethyl phenyl sulfide. The bioassay proposed in this work allowed the detection of mustard agent simulants with good sensitivity and fast response, which are excellent premises for the development of a miniaturised sensor well suited for an alarm system in case of terrorist attacks.
Mining Personal Data Using Smartphones and Wearable Devices: A Survey
Authors: Rehman Muhammad , Liew Chee , Wah Teh , Shuja Junaid , Daghighi Babak
Published: February 2015

The staggering growth in smartphone and wearable device use has led to a massive scale generation of personal (user-specific) data. To explore, analyze, and extract useful information and knowledge from the deluge of personal data, one has to leverage these devices as the data-mining platforms in ubiquitous, pervasive, and big data environments. This study presents the personal ecosystem where all computational resources, communication facilities, storage and knowledge management systems are available in user proximity. An extensive review on recent literature has been conducted and a detailed taxonomy is presented. The performance evaluation metrics and their empirical evidences are sorted out in this paper. Finally, we have highlighted some future research directions and potentially emerging application areas for personal data mining using smartphones and wearable devices.
VCC-SSF: Service-Oriented Security Framework for Vehicular Cloud Computing
Authors: Kang Won , Lee Jae , Jeong Young-Sik , Park Jong
Published: February 2015

Recently, as vehicle computing technology has advanced, the paradigm of the vehicle has changed from a simple means of transportation to a smart vehicle for safety and convenience. In addition, the previous functions of the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) such as traffic accident prevention and providing traffic volume information have been combined with cloud computing. ITS services provide user-oriented broad services in the Vehicular Cloud Computing (VCC) environment through efficient traffic management, traffic accident prevention, and convenience services. However, existing vehicle services focus on providing services using sensing information inside the vehicle and the system to provide the service through an interface with the external infrastructure is insufficient. In addition, because wireless networks are used in VCC environments, there is a risk of important information leakage from sensors inside the vehicle, such as driver personal identification and payment information at the time of goods purchase. We propose the VCC Service-oriented Security Framework (VCC-SSF) to address the limitations and security threats of VCC-based services. The proposed framework considers security for convenient and efficient services of VCC and includes new user-oriented payment management and active accident management services. Furthermore, it provides authentication, encryption, access control, confidentiality, integrity, and privacy protection for user personal information and information inside the vehicle.
Measurement and Numerical Simulation of Air Velocity in a Tunnel-Ventilated Broiler House
Authors: Bustamante Eliseo , García-Diego Fernando-Juan , Calvet Salvador , Torres Antonio , Hospitaler Antonio
Published: February 2015

A building needs to be designed for the whole period of its useful life according to its requirements. However, future climate predictions involve some uncertainty. Thus, several sustainable strategies of adaptation need to be incorporated after the initial design. In this sense, tunnel ventilation in broiler houses provides high air velocity values (2–3 m·s−1) at animal level to diminish their thermal stress and associated mortality. This ventilation system was experimentally incorporated into a Mediterranean climate. The aim was to resolve these thermal problems in hot seasons, as (traditional) cross-mechanical ventilation does not provide enough air velocity values. Surprisingly, very little information on tunnel ventilation systems is available, especially in terms of air velocity. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and a multi-sensor system, the average results are similar (at animal level: 1.59 ± 0.68 m·s−1 for CFD and 1.55 ± 0.66 m·s−1 for measurements). The ANOVA for validation concluded that the use of CFD or measurements is not significant (p-value = 0.1155). Nevertheless, some problems with air velocity distribution were found and need to be solved. To this end, CFD techniques can help by means of virtual designs and scenarios providing information for the whole indoor space.
Sulfasalazine Attenuates Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B-Induced Immune Responses
Authors: Krakauer Teresa
Published: February 2015

Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) and related exotoxins are important virulence factors produced by Staphylococcus aureus as they cause human diseases such as food poisoning and toxic shock. These toxins bind directly to cells of the immune system resulting in hyperactivation of both T lymphocytes and monocytes/macrophages. The excessive release of proinflammatory cytokines from these cells mediates the toxic effects of SEB. This study examined the inhibitory activities of an anti-inflammatory drug, sulfasalazine, on SEB-stimulated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Sulfasalazine dose-dependently inhibited tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 1 (IL-1) β, IL-2, IL-6, interferon γ (IFNγ), and various chemotactic cytokines from SEB-stimulated human PBMC. Sulfasalazine also potently blocked SEB-induced T cell proliferation and NFκB activation. These results suggest that sulfasalazine might be useful in mitigating the toxic effects of SEB by blocking SEB-induced host inflammatory cascade and signaling pathways.