bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tipping points? Curvilinear associations between activity level and mental development in toddlers
Authors: Flom Megan , Cohen Madeleine , Saudino Kimberly J.
Published: December 2016

Background

The Theory of Optimal Stimulation (Zentall & Zentall,Psychological Bulletin, 94, 1983, 446) posits that the relation between activity level (AL) and cognitive performance follows an inverted U shape where midrangeALpredicts better cognitive performance thanALat the extremes.

Methods

We explored this by fitting linear and quadratic models predicting mental development fromALassessed via multiple methods (parent ratings, observations, and actigraphs) and across multiple situations (laboratory play, laboratory test, home) in over 600 twins (2‐ and 3‐year olds).

Results

Only observedALin the laboratory was curvilinearly related to mental development scores. Results replicated across situations, age, and twin samples, providing strong support for the optimal stimulation model for this measure ofALin early childhood.

Conclusions

Different measures ofALprovide different information. Observations ofALwhich include both qualitative and quantitative aspects ofALwithin structured situations are able to capture beneficial aspects of normativeALas well as detriments of both low and highAL.
Relation of Dysglycemia to Structural Brain Changes in a Multiethnic Elderly Cohort
Authors: Reitz Christiane , Guzman Vanessa A. , Narkhede Atul , DeCarli Charles , Brickman Adam M. , Luchsinger José A.
Published: December 2016

Objectives

Abnormally high glucose levels (dysglycemia) increase with age. Epidemiological studies suggest that dysglycemia is a risk factor for cognitive impairment but the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms remain unclear. The objective of this study was to examine the relation of dysglycemia clinical categories (normal glucose tolerance (NGT), pre‐diabetes, undiagnosed diabetes, known diabetes) with brain structure in older adults. We also assessed the relation between dysglycemia and cognitive performance.

Design

Cross‐sectional and longitudinal cohort study.

Setting

Northern Manhattan (Washington Heights, Hamilton Heights, and Inwood).

Participants

Medicare recipients 65 years and older.

Measurements

Dysglycemia categories were based on HBA1c or history of type 2 diabetes (diabetes). Brain structure (brain infarcts, white matter hyperintensities (WMH) volume, total gray matter volume, total white matter volume, total hippocampus volume) was assessed with brain magnetic resonance imaging; cognitive function (memory, language and visuospatial function, speed) was assessed with a validated neuropsychological battery.

Results

Dysglycemia, defined with HbA1c as a continuous variable or categorically as pre‐diabetes and diabetes, was associated with a higher number of brain infarcts, WMH volume and decreased total white matter, gray matter and hippocampus volumes cross‐sectionally, and a significant decline in gray matter volume longitudinally. Dysglycemia was also associated with lower performance in language, speed and visuospatial function although these associations were attenuated when adjusted for education, APOE‐ε4, ethnic group and vascular risk factors.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that dysglycemia affects brain structure and cognition even in elderly survivors, evidenced by higher cerebrovascular disease, lower white and gray matter volume, and worse language and visuospatial function and cognitive speed.
Exploring dynamic surface processes during silicate mineral (wollastonite) dissolution with liquid cell TEM
Authors: LEONARD D.N. , HELLMANN R.
Published: December 2016

Most liquid cell transmission electron microscopy (LC TEM) studies focus on nanoparticles or nanowires, in large part because the preparation and study of materials in this size range is straightforward. By contrast, this is not true for samples in the micrometre size range, in large part because of the difficulties associated with sample preparation starting from a ‘bulk’ material. There are also many advantages inherent to the study of micrometre‐sized samples compared to their nanometre‐sized counterparts. Here, we present a liquid cell transmission electron study that employed an innovative sample preparation technique using focused ion beam (FIB) milling to fabricate micrometre‐sized electron transparent lamellae that were then welded to the liquid cell substrate. This technique, for which we have described in detail all of the fabrication steps, allows for samples having dimensions of several square micrometres to be observed by TEM in situ in a liquid. We applied this technique to test whether we could observe and measure in situ dissolution of a crystalline material called wollastonite, a calcium silicate mineral. More specifically, this study was used to observe and record surface dynamics associated with step and terrace edge movement, which are ultimately linked to the overall rate of dissolution. The wollastonite lamella underwent chemical reactions in pure deionized water at ambient temperature in a liquid cell with a 5‐m‐spacer thickness. The movement of surface steps and terraces was measured periodically over a period of almost 5 h. Quite unexpectedly, the one‐dimensional rates of retreat of these surface features were not constant, but changed over time. In addition, there were noticeable quantitative differences in retreat rates as a function crystallographic orientation, indicating that surface retreat is anisotropic. Several bulk rates of dissolution were also determined (1.6–4.2 • 10−7 mol m−2 s−1) using the rates of retreat of representative terraces and steps, and were found to be within one order of magnitude of dissolution rates in the literature based on aqueous chemistry data.
Single particle raster image analysis of diffusion
Authors: LONGFILS M. , SCHUSTER E. , LORÉN N. , SÄRKKÄ A. , RUDEMO M.
Published: December 2016

As a complement to the standard RICS method of analysing Raster Image Correlation Spectroscopy images with estimation of the image correlation function, we introduce the method SPRIA, Single Particle Raster Image Analysis. Here, we start by identifying individual particles and estimate the diffusion coefficient for each particle by a maximum likelihood method. Averaging over the particles gives a diffusion coefficient estimate for the whole image. In examples both with simulated and experimental data, we show that the new method gives accurate estimates. It also gives directly standard error estimates. The method should be possible to extend to study heterogeneous materials and systems of particles with varying diffusion coefficient, as demonstrated in a simple simulation example. A requirement for applying the SPRIA method is that the particle concentration is low enough so that we can identify the individual particles. We also describe a bootstrap method for estimating the standard error of standard RICS.
Safety, efficacy, and usage compliance of home‐use device utilizing RF and light energies for treating periorbital wrinkles
Authors: Gold Michael H. , Biron Julie , Levi Liora , Sensing Whitney
Published: December 2016

Background

The aging process is often associated with undesirable effects on facial skin such as skin redundancy, reduction of elasticity, and increased wrinkling. Radiofrequency (RF) and light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) are widely used, clinically proven technologies for skin rejuvenation.

Study Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and usage compliance of the home‐use device, utilizing RF and LED energies, for self‐treatment of periorbital wrinkles and improvement of skin appearance.

Study design

Thirty‐three subjects performed 21 treatment sessions every other day, over 6 weeks on the periorbital areas. In addition, two maintenance treatments were conducted 1 and 2 months following treatment end. Each subject served as his/her own control, comparing results before treatment, and 3 months following treatment end.

Results

Thirty subjects completed the study. A blinded, independent photographs assessment of three dermatologists demonstrated an average reduction of 1.49 Fitzpatrick scores (P < 0.001). Analysis revealed improvement (downgrade of at least 1 score) in almost all subjects.

No unexpected adverse events were reported. Post‐treatment erythema was seen in all subjects and disappeared within 1 h. In some subjects, post‐treatment edema was detected and resolved within 24 h. High satisfaction with the device operation, ease of treatments, safety, and wrinkle reduction was reported.

Conclusions

The Silk'n Home Skin Tightening (HST) device offers a safe and effective in‐home noninvasive technique to improve the appearance of age‐related periorbital wrinkles.
EUROPEAN ECONOMIC INTEGRATION AND COMPARATIVE ADVANTAGES
Authors: Boglioni Michele , Zambelli Stefano
Published: December 2016

On the basis of a set of Input‐Output tables we computed the European Net Product Possibility Frontier (NPPF) for the years from 1995 to 2011. During this period, several barriers to trade have been removed, allowing higher levels of trade and regional integration. Subsequently, we propose a method to check whether the prediction to be derived from Comparative Advantages (CAs) theory, namely, a specialization pattern that allows to reach the NPPF, is verified. The results suggest that CAs were not exploited well during the period considered and no positive trend emerged. The implication of our results is that there is ample scope for a coordinated policy aimed at improving allocation of resources. Further research on this topic seems to be necessary.
Prognostic Value of Nerve Ultrasound and Electrophysiological Findings in Saturday Night Palsy
Authors: Kerasnoudis Antonios , Ntasiou Panagiota , Ntasiou Efthymia
Published: December 2016

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

We report on the prognostic role of the cross‐sectional area (CSA) enlargement and conduction block (CB) in radial neuropathy (Saturday night palsy [SNP]).

METHODS

Reference CSA values were defined in 30 healthy subjects. Twenty‐four patients with SNP underwent evaluation (Thessaloniki Hypesthesia Score [THS], Medical Research Council [MRC], ultrasound, electrophysiology). All patients were followed up 3 months after initial presentation.

RESULTS

During initial evaluation, 13 patients showed pathological CSA (pCSA) and 11 normal CSA (nCSA). Fourteen patients showed conduction block (pCB) and 10 showed no conduction block (nCB). The site of lesion was recognized in 11 patients in the spiral groove, in 8 patients in the distal main trunk, just before the division to motor and sensory branch, while 5 patients showed a double site of lesion (spiral groove and supinators’ canal). During follow‐up, the pCSA group showed a mean MRC score of 2.8 (SD ± .7) and a THS of 1.8 (SD ± .4), while the nCSA group showed a mean MRC score of 4.1 (SD ± .9) and a THS of .7 (SD ± .3) (P < .001) (Table 4). On the other hand, the pCB group showed a mean MRC score of 3.7 (SD ± 1.1) and a THS of 2.7 (SD ± .9), and the nCB group showed a mean MRC score of 4.2 (SD ± 1.2) and a THS of 1.7 (SD ± .9) (P = .355, P = .013, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The CSA enlargement, but not the CB, seems to have a negative prognostic role in patients with SNP.
Chronic hepatitis C infection and liver disease in HIV‐coinfected patients in Asia
Authors: Durier N. , Yunihastuti E. , Ruxrungtham K. , Kinh N. V. , Kamarulzaman A. , Boettiger D. , Widhani A. , Avihingsanon A. , Huy B. V. , Syed Omar S. F. B. , Sanityoso A. , Chittmittrapap S. , Dung N. T. H. , Pillai V. , Suwan‐Ampai T. , Law M. , Sohn A. H. , Matthews G.
Published: December 2016

Data on markers of hepatitis C virus (HCV) disease in HIV‐HCV‐coinfected patients in resource‐limited settings are scarce. We assessed HCV RNA, HCV genotype (GT), IL28B GT and liver fibrosis (FibroScan®) in 480 HIV‐infected patients with positive HCV antibody in four HIV treatment centres in South‐East Asia. We enrolled 165 (34.4%) patients in Jakarta, 158 (32.9%) in Bangkok, 110 (22.9%) in Hanoi and 47 (9.8%) in Kuala Lumpur. Overall, 426 (88.8%) were male, the median (IQR) age was 38.1 (34.7‐42.5) years, 365 (76.0%) reported HCV exposure through injecting drug use, and 453 (94.4%) were on combination antiretroviral therapy. The median (IQR) CD4 count was 446 (325‐614) cells/mm3 and 208 (94.1%) of 221 patients tested had HIV‐1 RNA <400 copies/mL. A total of 412 (85.8%) had detectable HCV RNA, at a median (IQR) of 6.2 (5.4‐6.6) log10 IU/mL. Among 380 patients with HCV GT, 223 (58.7%) had GT1, 97 (25.5%) had GT3, 43 (11.3%) had GT6, eight (2.1%) had GT4, two (0.5%) had GT2, and seven (1.8%) had indeterminate GT. Of 222 patients with IL28B testing, 189 (85.1%) had rs12979860 CC genotype, and 199 (89.6%) had rs8099917 TT genotype. Of 380 patients with FibroScan®, 143 (37.6%) had no/mild liver fibrosis (F0‐F1), 83 (21.8%) had moderate fibrosis (F2), 74 (19.5%) had severe fibrosis (F3), and 79 (20.8%) had cirrhosis (F4). One patient (0.3%) had FibroScan® failure. In conclusion, a high proportion of HIV‐HCV‐coinfected patients had chronic HCV infection. HCV GT1 was predominant, and 62% of patients had liver disease warranting prompt treatment (≥F2).
Security interests in intellectual property: proposals for reform
Authors: Thomas Sean
Published: December 2016

This paper considers some of the difficulties arising from how English law conceptualises certain types of security interests over IPRs, and the problems arising from dual registration systems. This analysis is informed by a critical comparison of the current English doctrine, alongside the US system and the proposals from UNCITRAL. It is argued that attempts to regulate a world of integrated goods (whereby goods and software are inextricably interconnected), through unintegrated regimes of legal governance of security interests over goods and IPRs, is unsustainable. It will thus be argued that reform of security interest law generally (to bring about a functional system of security) and a single register for security interests whether over goods or IPRs is necessary. Specific recommendations to deal with problems concerning purchase money security interests, and third-party purchasers, are put forward.
Musa paramjitiana sp. nov. (Musaceae) from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India
Authors: Singh Lal Ji
Published: December 2016

A new species of wild banana, Musa paramjitiana L. J. Singh, from the Andaman Islands, India is described and illustrated, and its conservation status is assessed. A key to the species of Musa L. from Andaman and Nicobar Islands is also provided.
Temperature response of mesophyll conductance in three C4 species calculated with two methods: 18O discrimination and in vitro Vpmax
Authors: Ubierna Nerea , Gandin Anthony , Boyd Ryan A. , Cousins Asaph B.
Published: December 2016

Mesophyll conductance (gm) is an important factor limiting rates of C3 photosynthesis. However, its role in C4 photosynthesis is poorly understood because it has been historically difficult to estimate.

We use two methods to derive the temperature responses of gm in C4 species. The first (Δ18O) combines measurements of gas exchange with models and measurements of 18O discrimination. The second method (in vitro Vpmax) derives gm by retrofitting models of C4 photosynthesis and 13C discrimination with gas exchange, kinetic constants and in vitro Vpmax measurements.

The two methods produced similar gm for Setaria viridis and Zea mays. Additionally, we present the first temperature response (10–40°C) of C4 gm in S. viridis, Z. mays and Miscanthus × giganteus. Values for gm at 25°C ranged from 2.90 to 7.85 μmol m−2 s−1 Pa−1.

Our study demonstrated that: the two described methods are suitable to calculate gm in C4 species; gm values in C4 are similar to high‐end values reported for C3 species; and gm increases with temperature analogous to reports for C3 species and the response is species specific. These results improve our mechanistic understanding of C4 photosynthesis.
New routes for plant iron mining
Authors: Curie Catherine , Mari Stéphane
Published: December 2016

Plant iron (Fe) uptake relies to a large extent on the capacity of cells to control and extract Fe pools safely conserved in extracytoplasmic environments such as the apoplast and vacuoles, at least as much as on the transport machinery nested in plasma membranes. Recent studies on root and embryo Fe nutrition support this assertion and show that the root Fe‐deficiency response also includes the dynamic use of a large Fe reservoir bound to cell wall components in the root apoplast, secretion in the apoplast of phenolic compounds of the coumarin family, which solubilize Fe in calcareous soils, and inhibition of suberization of endodermal cells in order to allow apoplastic and transcellular radial transport of Fe. All of these responses are regulated by the stress hormones ethylene and abscisic acid (ABA), suggesting an integrated strategy within the root to adapt to Fe shortage. For its nutrition, the embryo has developed both an original uptake mechanism, in which ascorbate is effluxed to chemically reduce Fe3+ to the transport‐competent Fe2+ form, and an efficient strategy to control utilization of a large Fe pool in vacuoles. This review will attempt to summarize exciting new insights into the diverse routes that Fe takes to feed plant tissues.

Contents

Summary
521

I.
Introduction
521

II.
How does the root extracellular space contribute to Fe nutrition?
522

III.
Fe in the seed: acquisition and distribution strategies
523

IV.
Conclusions and open questions
524

Acknowledgements
525

References
525
Host shifts enhance diversification of ectomycorrhizal fungi: diversification rate analysis of the ectomycorrhizal fungal generaStrobilomycesandAfroboletuswith an 80‐gene phylogeny
Authors: Sato Hirotoshi , Tanabe Akifumi S. , Toju Hirokazu
Published: December 2016

Mutualisms with new host lineages can provide symbionts with novel ecological opportunities to expand their geographical distribution, thereby leading to evolutionary diversification. Because ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi provide ideal opportunities to test the relationship between host shifts and diversification, we tested whether mutualism with new host lineages could increase the diversification rates ofECMfungi.

Using a Bayesian tree inferred from 23 027‐base nucleotide sequences of 80 single‐copy genes, we tested whether the diversification rate had changed through host‐shift events in the monophyletic clade containing theECMfungal generaStrobilomycesandAfroboletus.

The results indicated that these fungi were initially associated with Caesalpinioideae/Monotoideae in Africa, acquired associations with Dipterocarpoideae in tropical Asia, and then switched to Fagaceae/Pinaceae and Nothofagaceae/Eucalyptus. Fungal lineages associated with Fagaceae/Pinaceae were inferred to have approximately four‐fold and two‐fold greater diversification rates than those associated with Caesalpinioideae/Monotoideae and Dipterocarpoideae or Nothofagaceae/Eucalyptus, respectively. Moreover, the diversification rate shift was inferred to follow the host shift to Fagaceae/Pinaceae.

Our study suggests that host‐shift events, particularly those occurring with respect to Fagaceae/Pinaceae, can provide ecological opportunities for the rapid diversification ofStrobilomyces–Afroboletus. Although further studies are needed for generalization, we propose a possible diversification scenario ofECMfungi.
Home visitation programs: an untapped opportunity for the delivery of early childhood obesity prevention
Authors: Salvy S.‐J. , de la Haye K. , Galama T. , Goran M. I.
Published: December 2016

Background

Extant obesity efforts have had limited impact among low‐income underserved children, in part because of limitations inherent to existing programs: (i) short duration and low intensity; (ii) late timing of implementation, when children are already overweight or obese; (iii) intervention delivery limiting their accessibility and sustainability; and (iv) failure to address barriers such as a lack of culturally competent services, poverty and housing instability, which interfere with healthy lifestyle changes.

Objective

This concept paper proposes an innovative model of obesity prevention implemented in infancy and sustained throughout early childhood to address the limitations of current obesity prevention efforts. Specifically, we propose to integrate sustained, weekly, in‐home obesity prevention as part of the services already delivered by ongoing Home Visitation Programs, which currently do not target obesity prevention.

Conclusion

The home visiting structure represents an ideal model for impactful obesity prevention as home visitation programs: (i) already provide comprehensive services to diverse low‐income infants and families who are most at risk for obesity and poor health because of socio‐economic and structural conditions; (ii) services are initiated in infancy and sustained throughout critical developmental periods for the formation of healthy/unhealthy behaviors; and (iii) have been in place for more than 40 years, with a widespread presence across the United States and nationwide, which is critical for the scalability and sustainability of obesity prevention.
Four approaches to guide ecological restoration in Latin America
Authors: Meli Paula , Herrera Francisco F. , Melo Felipe , Pinto Severino , Aguirre Nicolay , Musálem Karim , Minaverry Clara , Ramírez Wilson , Brancalion Pedro H. S.
Published: December 2016

There is strong upswing in conservation and restoration efforts in Latin America (LA), particularly in the recent decades after several countries have committed to international agreements such as the Aichi targets of the Convention on Biological Diversity, Initiative 20×20, and the Bonn Challenge. To fulfill these agreements, the practice of ecological restoration has to be defined based on ecological knowledge, but also on the specific social, economic, and legal aspects of each country in the region. Here, we give some examples about the national understanding of ecological restoration in 10 countries of LA. We identify difficulties and opportunities to define restoration priorities and needs, and discuss some approaches to cope with economic constraints and agreements, including the potential role of restoration networks in this process. On the basis of the socioecological complexity of these countries and the expectations they have in relation to restoration, we proposed four approaches to guide restoration practice and policy in the region: (1) including biodiversity and ecosystem services approach into ecosystem restoration initiatives; (2) promoting restoration in their frequently human‐modified landscapes; (3) accounting for cost–benefit trade‐offs; and (4) assembling “horizontal” communication frameworks. These approaches should be based at national levels, but adapted to local‐regional levels, in a bottom‐up perspective. We consider that national and international restoration networks in the region can help to overcome difficulties, fostering a solid scientific community, helping to develop national approaches that better match the specific conditions of each country and enhancing communication among different groups of stakeholders.
Accounting for Growth Disparity: Lucas's Framework Revisited
Authors: Hosoya Kei
Published: December 2016

This paper proposes a theoretical method to account for historical episodes of growth disparity. A numerical computation shows that the properties of the local dynamics of the proposed model are consistent with the facts indicated by selected episodes.
When You Care Enough to Pay Someone to Send the Very Best: The Outsourcing of Greeting Card Inscriptions
Authors: Lair Craig D.
Published: December 2016

It is now possible for individuals and businesses to hire a service to inscribe, by hand, the greeting cards they send. Based on a content analysis of Web sites that provide this service, and drawing from the ideas of Erving Goffman, I argue that beyond simply writing cards for their clients, what these providers ultimately offer them is the ability to be presented as someone who performed a particular presentation ritual (i.e., the sending of a card with a personal inscription) for another when, in fact, they did not. This can be seen in terms of how outsourced inscriptions are presented as ones that have not been outsourced and/or how many providers employ defensive practices seemingly designed to prevent recipients from discovering that an inscription was outsourced. As such, a kind of misrepresentation seems necessary if outsourced inscriptions are to have all the instrumental and symbolic benefits the providers of this service claim they offer. Some key implications and consequences of this kind of misrepresentation are explored.
Testing Tropiduchini Stål 1866 (Hemiptera: Tropiduchidae) monophyly, a young inter‐tropical taxon of mainly insular species: taxonomy, distribution patterns and phylogeny, with the description of a new genus from Papua New Guinea
Authors: WANG RONG‐RONG , LI XIN‐YU , SZWEDO JACEK , STROIŃSKI ADAM , LIANG AI‐PING , BOURGOIN THIERRY
Published: December 2016

A morphological phylogenetic analysis of the tribe Tropiduchini (Hemiptera: Tropiduchidae) is provided for 21 genera among the 26 recognized, including the new genus Oechalinella Wang gen.n., with a new species Oechalinella bifasciata Wang sp.n. Monophyly of the tribe is well supported by synapomorphies derived from the male genitalia. The strict consensus supports two subclades: ((Montrouzierana + Thymbra) + Thaumantia+) as sister to the clade (Leptovanua + (Vanua + Varma+) + Daradacella+). In the first subclade, the clade (Montrouzierana + Thymbra), distributed in New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea, is well supported by three synapomorphies based on the tegmina, while the Thaumantia+ group is characterized by the conformation of the anal tube and male gonostyli, and distributed from Malesia to Papuasia and in Central Africa. The second subclade is largely distributed from China to Malesia, Papuasia, Southwestern and the Northwestern Pacific islands. The position of the genus Leptovanua remains uncertain. The Varma+ clade is recovered in all analyses. Implied weighting analysis placed the Varma+ lineage as sister to all other genera forming a new group (Leptovanua+ + ((Montrouzierana + Thymbra) + Thaumantia+)). Fennah's definition of Tropiduchini is reviewed according to the phylogenetic results and an identification key to all genera is provided with a referenced synopsis of their distribution. Globally, Tropiduchini exhibits an inter‐tropical latitudinal distribution and a paradoxical bimodal longitudinal distribution pattern in continental Africa, South‐east Asia and the Pacific islands. Distribution data concern nearly 80% of insular taxa. The phylogenetical results suggest that: (i) the tribe originates from continental China; (ii) it evolved mainly from Papuasia by stepping‐stone colonization events, promoting subsequent insular speciation; and (iii) its evolution has mainly been directed by dispersion versus vicariance.
Usefulness of nucleic acid testing to reduce risk of hepatitis B virus transfusion‐transmitted infection in Argentina: high rate of recent infections
Authors: Blanco Sebastián , Balangero Marcos César , Valle Mildre Cledy , Montini Oscar Luis , Carrizo Luis Horacio , Gallego Sandra Verónica
Published: December 2016

BACKGROUND

Results from 10‐year experience using nucleic acid test (NAT) screening in a blood bank of Córdoba are presented, showing the first data on prevalence of recent hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections and occult HBV infections (OBIs) in Argentina.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Molecular screening was performed by COBAS AmpliScreen human immunodeficiency virus Type 1 (HIV‐1) test Version 1.5 and COBAS AmpliScreen hepatitis C virus (HCV) test Version 2.0 and COBAS TaqScreen MPX and MPX Version 2.0 test (Roche Molecular Systems). To characterize OBI, additional molecular and serologic assays were performed.

RESULTS

As results of NAT, 0.075% of the donors (155/205,388) tested positive for HIV, 0.05% (106/205,388) for HCV, and 0.045% (76/168,215) for HBV. Donors who tested positive for HIV or HCV by NAT were also positive by serology. There was one of 33,643 donors recently infected with HBV. At time of donation, six of 76 (7.9%) donors with confirmed HBV infection presented virologic and serologic profiles consistent with OBI. By additional studies three were OBI, two were window period infections, and one remained unclassified.

CONCLUSION

NAT contributed significantly to the reduction of the potential risk of HBV transmission with a frequency of one in 56,072, detecting three in 168,215 donors without serologic evidence of infection. NAT also detected three in 168,215 OBIs. The finding of high frequency of recent infections (1/33,643), unexpected for this country, highlights the need of promoting unified effective regulations that enforce the use of NAT in all blood banks in Argentina and points out the importance of assessing the risk of HBV transmission in blood banks of other countries considered to be low‐endemic.
Roundtable on Mark A. Lause's Free Labor: The Civil War and the Making of an American Working Class
Authors: Case Theresa , Pearson Chad , Kelly Brian , Lause Mark A.
Published: December 2016

Mark A. Lause's Free Labor: The Civil War and the Making of an American Working Class is the most comprehensive book about the Civil War era labor movement published in more than a half century. While most scholars of the Civil War focus principally on the great battles, the political tensions between the North and South, and Abraham Lincoln's steady leadership, Lause has produced a thorough account of different laborers during wartime: solders, printers, molders, machinists, and, significantly, former slaves while never losing sight of the period's most remarkable military and political struggles. Built on various collections of primary sources and the most relevant secondary literature, the book will give future generations of historians much to contemplate. Recognizing the significance of Lause's scholarly contribution, three historians of labor have offered their thoughts. Theresa Case, author of an influential book about the great 1880s Southwest Railway strikes, provides a largely favorable review, applauding Lause for his close attention to cases of both repression and resistance, including outbreaks of interracial unity between blacks and whites. She challenges him for failing to highlight distinctions between freedom and slavery, but concludes by recognizing his “high standard of research.” Chad Pearson, a scholar of union‐busting employers’ associations, focuses on the contested meanings of the Civil War, Lincoln's leadership, and the notion of free labor itself. Pearson finds it noteworthy that both union activists in the 1860s and strikebreaking architects in the Progressive Era interpreted the war's meaning in starkly different ways. Brian Kelly, a leading historian of race and labor, questions why Lause was not more attentive to the role that nativism played in de‐radicalizing sections of the working‐class. Yet Kelly remains tremendously impressed, noting that Lause has demonstrated “encyclopedic knowledge of the [period's] labor and reform currents.” Lause concludes the roundtable with his responses to all three contributors.
Sylvatic Transmission ofTrypanosoma cruziAmong Domestic and Wildlife Reservoirs in Texas,USA: A Review of the Historical Literature
Authors: Gunter S. M. , Brown E. L. , Gorchakov R. , Murray K. O. , Garcia M. N.
Published: December 2016

Chagas disease (Trypanosoma cruziinfection) is one of the most important neglected tropical diseases affecting the Americas. The transmission dynamic of this parasite is a complicated process that involves three genera of Triatominae subfamily and over 100 known mammalian reservoirs composed of domestic, peridomestic and wildlife species. Understanding the complex relationship between vector species and mammalian hosts is important for preventing transmission to humans. We performed a historical literature review to assess the disease burden in the Texas wildlife and domestic animal population. Reports of sylvatic transmission in Texas date back to the 1940s. We found that up to 23 species can serve as reservoirs forT. cruziin the state with wood rats, raccoons, and wild and domestic canine species most frequently reported as positive for the parasite. We finish with a discussion of the current research gaps, implications for high‐risk populations and future directions for research.
Thermal-Hydraulic Model and Program Development for Helium-Cooled Accelerator-Driven System
Authors: Peng Tianji , Zhou Zhiwei
Published: December 2016

The accelerator-driven subcritical reactor system (ADS) is a kind of nuclear reactor which can burn minor actinide waste products produced from conventional reactors with inherent safety features. In this paper, the thermal-hydraulic model and a corresponding program for a 10 MW helium-cooled experimental ADS are presented. Through the analysis of the heat transfer mechanism in ADS, the thermal-hydraulic model of ADS was built, in which the solid domain is simulated with three-dimensional heat conduction model and the fluid domain is simulated with the one-dimensional quasi-static model. In order to analyze the transient characteristics of ADS with cooling system, a RELAP5–TRCAP coupling model for the cooling system was established, in which the decay heat of the target and core is considered. The results of steady condition and transients demonstrate the effectiveness of the transient model.
Thermo-Economic Performance of a Cogeneration Medium–Small Modular Nuclear Reactor Plant in Canada
Authors: Ge Gaoming , Ikegawa Tomohiko , Nishida Koji , Simonson Carey J.
Published: December 2016

Hitachi-GE developed a 300 MWel class modular simplified and medium small reactor (DMS) concept, and the DMS was originally designed for generating electricity only. In this study, the feasibility of a cogeneration DMS plant which supplies both electricity and heat is under investigation. The thermal performance of the DMS plant without or with low-, medium-, or high-temperature thermal utilization (TU) applications is evaluated by numerical simulations. The results show that the electricity generated reduces as the heating requirement of TU application becomes higher. Furthermore, the economic performance of the cogeneration DMS plant is compared with another two integrated systems: (i) DMS plus electric boilers and (ii) DMS plus natural gas boilers, for those three TU applications in Canada. The results illustrate that the DMS plus natural gas boilers system are most economic if there is no carbon tax, but with high-CO2 emissions (up to 180 kton per year). The cogeneration plant performs best as the carbon tax increases up to $40/ton. The cogeneration DMS plant is a promising scheme to supply both electricity and heat simultaneously in the economic-environmental point of view.
“Cenosphere–Molybdenum Disulfide”–New Filler–Lubricant Combination for Performance Synergism in Composite Friction Materials
Authors: Kachhap Rakesh K. , Satapathy Bhabani K.
Published: December 2016

Short-fiber (e.g., steel wool, rock fibers, and kevlar) reinforced flyash cenosphere–molybdenum disulfide combination-filled phenolic composite materials for friction braking applications were developed and evaluated for their physical (density, void fraction, acetone extraction, and ash content), mechanical (hardness, compressibility, shear strength), and thermal characteristics (thermogravimetric analysis (thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA)/differential thermo gravimetry). Performance correlations between thermomechanical characteristics and friction braking data obtained from Krauss friction testing machine is attempted. The frictional fade (μF) and recovery (μR) behavior vis-a-vis amplitude of friction fluctuations (μmax–μmin) performance were observed to be enhanced due to the incorporation of “cenosphere–molybdenum disulfide” combination. The enhanced wear resistance was attributed to the lower temperature sensitivity of posttemperature degradation kinetics. Analysis of friction and wear data indicated μF and intrinsic material coefficients to be major determinants for μP and wear, respectively. Our study demonstrates the performance synergism due to the incorporation of cenosphere–molybdenum disulfide as the hybrid “filler–lubricant” combination in composite materials for friction braking application.
Fault-Tolerant Actuating Pressure Controller Design for an Electrohydrostatic Actuator Experiencing a Leaky Piston Seal
Authors: Ren Guangan , Song Jinchun , Sepehri Nariman
Published: December 2016

Electrohydrostatic actuators (EHAs), as a class of pump-controlled hydraulic actuators, are known for energy efficiency and easy maintainability. Thus, they can be widely used in the situations where actuating pressure/force control of hydraulic actuators is essential. Examples are automotive active suspension, deep-drawing press, molding machine, and vibration isolation. However, a leaky piston seal in an EHA system can be especially problematic as it is not visually detectable, but causes internal leakage flowing across actuator chambers impairing the performance. This paper employs quantitative feedback theory (QFT) to design a robust fixed-gain linear actuating pressure controller that is tolerant to actuator internal leakage. Since QFT captures uncertainties by templates, representing frequency responses of the plant on Nichols chart, the first step, to design a QFT controller, is to establish plant templates. In doing so, a set of offline parametric system identifications are implemented, and the family of identified models, providing frequency responses, are used to design the QFT fault-tolerant controller. The controller also satisfies the prescribed design tolerances on tracking, stability and sensitivity (disturbance rejection at plant output) under different conditions, including various levels of actuator internal leakage, environmental stiffnesses, and load masses. The ability of the controller to maintain actuating pressure within the acceptable response envelope is demonstrated in experiments. The experimental results show that the system specifications are satisfied despite internal leakage up to 12 L/min.
Investigating Entropy Generation in a Thermal Cloak Corresponding Different Material Layer Number
Authors: Zhang Haochun , Xu Guoqiang , Yu Haiyan , Li Yao , Wei Yanqiang
Published: December 2016

In this study, entropy analysis was introduced to characterize the thermodynamic properties of a two-dimensional (2D) thermal cloak consisting of multiple layers. The local entropy generation rate distribution was obtained, and the total entropy generation of different models was calculated. The irreversible extent of the heat transfer increased in the even layers with larger thermal conductivities. A better thermal cloak not only enhances thermal protection but also concentrates the energy fluctuations on the plate. The augmentation entropy generation number is used to identify the best cloaking scheme by varying the cloaking layer number from 1 to 20. This work shows that the fitting equation derived by analysis of variance (ANOVA) can be used to optimize the number of layers of the cloaking structure.
Optimal Design of a Solar Collector for Required Flux Distribution on a Tubular Receiver
Authors: Ibrar Hussain Muhammad , Mokheimer Esmail M. A. , Ahmed Shakeel
Published: December 2016

A mathematical model has been derived and used to develop a three-dimensional concentrating solar collector as presented in this article. The developed solar collector gives the required flux distribution along the longitudinal direction of tubular absorber. The model requires inputs like the profile of required flux distribution, local solar flux, dimensions of the absorber, and the distance of absorber from the reflector. The model is developed under the most common assumptions and showed a high validity of 99.99%. The effects of inputs on the design geometrical parameters such as curvature, steepness, surface area, and aperture diameter, which affect the manufacturing, space limitations, and cost analysis, are presented and discussed. It is shown that decreasing the initial radius, solar flux, and slope of flux distribution required at the absorber surface results in a less steep reflecting surface (RS), which is also favored with increase in absorber's radius and initial angles. Smaller reflecting surface area can be obtained by using larger values of initial radius, solar flux, and slope of the absorber flux distribution. Smaller initial curvatures can also be obtained by increasing initial angle, absorber's radius, and slope of flux distribution. Decreasing the initial radius, initial angle, and absorber's radius can limit the aperture's diameter such that it could fit the space limitation. Locations' high solar flux would reduce the aperture's diameter.
Integrated Design of Compliant Mechanisms and Embedded Rotary Actuators and Bending Actuators for Motion Generation
Authors: Cao Lin , Zhang Wenjun (Chris)
Published: December 2016

This paper presents an integrated design approach, a new topology optimization technique, to simultaneously synthesizing the optimal structural topologies of compliant mechanisms (CMs) and actuator placement — bending actuators and rotary actuators — for motion generation. The approach has the following salient features: (1) the use of bending actuators and rotary actuators as the actuation of CMs, (2) the simultaneous optimization of the CM and the location and orientation of the actuator that is embedded in the CM, (3) the guiding of a flexible link from an initial configuration to a series of desired configurations (including precision positions, orientations, and shapes), and (4) a new connectivity checking scheme to check whether the regions of interest in a design candidate are well connected. A program was employed for the geometrically nonlinear finite element analysis of large-displacement CMs driven by either bending actuators or rotary actuators. Two design examples were presented to demonstrate the proposed approach. The design results were 3D printed, and they all achieved desired shape changes when actuated.
Branch Identification of Spherical Six-Bar Linkages
Authors: Nie Liangyi , Wang Jun , Ting Kwun-Lon , Zhao Daxing , Wang Quan , Ren Jun , Sun Jinfeng
Published: December 2016

Branch (assembly mode or circuit) identification is a way to assure motion continuity among discrete linkage positions. Branch problem is the most fundamental, pivotal, and complex issue among the mobility problems that may also include sub-branch (singularity-free) identification, range of motion, and order of motion. Branch and mobility complexity increases greatly in spherical or spatial linkages. This paper presents the branch identification method suitable for automated motion continuity rectification of a single degree-of-freedom of spherical linkages. Using discriminant method and the concept of joint rotation space (JRS), the branch of a spherical linkage can be easily identified. The proposed method is general and conceptually straightforward. It can be applied for all linkage inversions. Examples are employed to illustrate the proposed method.
Tolerance Analysis With Polytopes in HV-Description
Authors: Arroyave-Tobón Santiago , Teissandier Denis , Delos Vincent
Published: December 2016

This article proposes the use of polytopes in HV-description to solve tolerance analysis problems. Polytopes are defined by a finite set of half-spaces representing geometric, contact or functional specifications. However, the list of the vertices of the poly-topes are useful for computing other operations as Minkowski sums. Then, this paper proposes a truncation algorithm to obtain the V-description of polytopes in ℝn from its H-description. It is detailed how intersections of polytopes can be calculated by means of the truncation algorithm. Minkowski sums as well can be computed using this algorithm making use of the duality property of polytopes. Therefore, a Minkowski sum can be calculated intersecting some half-spaces in the dual space. Finally, the approach based on HV-polytopes is illustrated by the tolerance analysis of a real industrial case using the open source software PolitoCAT and politopix.
A Random Field Method for Time-Dependent Reliability Analysis With Random and Interval Variables
Authors: Hu Zhangli , Du Xiaoping
Published: December 2016

In many engineering applications, both random and interval variables exist. Some of the random variables may also vary over time. As a result, the reliability of a component not only decreases with time but also resides in an interval. Evaluating the time-dependent reliability bounds is a challenging task because of the intensive computational demand. This research develops a method that treats a time-dependent random response as a random field with respect to both intervals and time. Consequently, random field methodologies can be used to estimate the worse-case time-dependent reliability. The method employs the first-order reliability method, which results in a Gaussian random field for the response with respect to intervals and time. The Kriging method and Monte Carlo simulation are then used to estimate the worse-case reliability without calling the original limit-state function. Good efficiency and accuracy are demonstrated through examples.
On the Solution of Five-Precision-Points Path Synthesis of Planar Four-Bar Linkages Using Algebraic Method
Authors: Wei Feng , Wei Shimin , Zhang Ying , Liao Qizheng
Published: December 2016

The problem of five precision points path synthesis of planar four-bar linkage can be divided into four types in term of the input parameters. A unified formulation for the four types is built based on the planar displacement matrix. Next, the corresponding resultant matrix is constructed based on Groebner bases generated by applying the new term ordering (the groups graded reverse lexicographic ordering, <ggrevlex) for four types. Then, a high-degree univariate polynomial equation is accordingly obtained. At last, several examples are provided to validate the algorithm and the solutions are verified in the software SAM. And it is concluded that type I has 36 solutions, type II has 64 including 16 degenerate solutions, type III has 92 solutions and type IV has 82 solutions including 16 degenerate solutions.
Uncertainty Topics for Engineering Design Courses
Authors: Du Xiaoping
Published: December 2016

Uncertainty commonly exists in engineering applications, especially in a design process. Quantifying and managing uncertainty is often a core consideration during the design stage. Due to its importance in engineering practices, uncertainty is gradually introduced and taught in a number of engineering courses. Uncertainty topics, however, are still limited and the teaching materials on uncertainty are still currently lacking. This paper focuses on possible topics that could be introduced in various engineering courses, particularly in design courses. The topics cover the following aspects: identify and take actions on potential failure modes, account for system reliability in the early design stage, quantify the effect of uncertainty, and mitigate the effect of uncertainty in latter design stages. This paper also introduces basics of related design methodologies, such as reliability-based design, robust design, and design for six sigma in order for interested educators to develop familiarity of uncertainty. This paper also reports the implementation and experience of uncertainty education at the Missouri University of Science and Technology.