bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three dimensional stress analysis of adhesively bonded and multi pinned metal matrix composite plates
Authors: Sen Faruk , Köksal Hakan
Published: May 2015

In this study, stress analyses have been performed for adhesively bonded and multi pinned metal matrix composite plates. The joint can be defined as hybrid structure providing various aims such as increasing loading capacity, corrosion resistance between plates etc. The finite element method was used for determination of three dimensional stresses acting on the hybrid joint. It is designed of metal matrix composite plates with epoxy adhesive and four pins. Both, the modeling and solution processes have been carried out using the ANSYS software which is well-known as a reliable finite element program. Stresses have been assumed as a consequence of tensile loadings at 80, 120, 160, 200, 240 N and uniform temperatures at 55, 65, 75, 85, 95 °C. According to the obtained analysis results, thermal stresses were especially concentrated around the pin holes. Hence, it has to be anticipated that any failure of the hybrid joint may start from pin hole zone firstly. Furthermore, the magnitudes of stresses were increased by increasing both, the tensile loading and the uniform temperature.
Comparability of structured and flat reference specimens made of thin sheet metal
Authors: Kazak Fedor , Weiß Sabine
Published: May 2015

The literature review reveals that the honeycomb-structured thin sheet metals are not adequately investigated with regard to their fatigue strength. A question that remains almost completely ignored in the process is the direct comparability of structured thin sheet metals with flat reference specimens. A thin sheet is not a classic specimen to determine the fatigue strength because of the known problem of the fracture mechanics. Structured thin sheet metals of deep-drawing steel DC04 with a thickness of 0.5 mm were examined. Flat specimens were used as reference material. The frequency analysis was used for comparison. Fundamental differences in the mechanical behavior between flat and structured sheets under cyclic load were observed. Whereas an extremely flat S-N curve in the low-cycle region with a high slope coefficient was observed for the smooth thin sheets, the structured specimens show a curve typical for notched specimens. Moreover, the smooth sheets have a specific cyclic hardening and/or softening behavior. The state of plane stress of a fine sheet in contrast to a multi-axial one for the structured sheet complicates the direct comparison. For this reason, such a comparison with respect to their fatigue strength in the Wohler diagram should only be considered with caution. This contribution is the second of a series of articles on this subject.
A novel procedure for failure criteria determination at solder joints under the board level drop test
Authors: Gu Jian , Lei Yongping , Lin Jian , Wen Guichen , Fu Hanguang
Published: May 2015

Controlling and monitoring of dynamic responses are very important to ensure consistent test results and understand mechanical behaviors, as they are closely related to the solder joint failure mechanism. The failure of a solder joint during drop impact is induced by printed circuit board (PCB) bending. The failure criteria must be clear to determine the absolute impact life for direct comparison of drop test results. In this publication, a multi-channel real time electrical monitoring system is introduced, which can measure the dynamic voltage of daisy-chained solder joints in real-time during drop impact. A new failure criteria of board level drop test is developed, which takes the function of the component into account.
Pediatric hydrocephalus: systematic literature review and evidence-based guidelines. Part 4: Cerebrospinal fluid shunt or endoscopic third ventriculostomy for the treatment of hydrocephalus in children
Authors: Limbrick David D. , Baird Lissa C. , Klimo Paul , Riva-Cambrin Jay , Flannery Ann Marie
Published: May 2015

Object

The objective of this systematic review was to examine the existing literature comparing CSF shunts and endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) for the treatment of pediatric hydrocephalus and to make evidence-based recommendations regarding the selection of surgical technique for this condition.

Methods

Both the US National Library of Medicine and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were queried using MeSH headings and key words specifically chosen to identify published articles detailing the use of CSF shunts and ETV for the treatment of pediatric hydrocephalus. Articles meeting specific criteria that had been determined a priori were examined, and data were abstracted and compiled in evidentiary tables. These data were then analyzed by the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Systematic Review and Evidence-Based Guidelines Task Force to consider treatment recommendations based on the evidence.

Results

Of the 122 articles identified using optimized search parameters, 52 were recalled for full-text review. One additional article, originally not retrieved in the search, was also reviewed. Fourteen articles met all study criteria and contained comparative data on CSF shunts and ETV. In total, 6 articles (1 Class II and 5 Class III) were accepted for inclusion in the evidentiary table; 8 articles were excluded for various reasons. The tabulated evidence supported the evaluation of CSF shunts versus ETV.

Conclusions

Cerebrospinal fluid shunts and ETV demonstrated equivalent outcomes in the clinical etiologies studied.

Recommendation: Both CSF shunts and ETV are options in the treatment of pediatric hydrocephalus. Strength of Recommendation: Level II, moderate clinical certainty.
Pediatric hydrocephalus: systematic literature review and evidence-based guidelines. Part 7: Antibiotic-impregnated shunt systems versus conventional shunts in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Klimo Paul , Thompson Clinton J. , Baird Lissa C. , Flannery Ann Marie
Published: May 2015

Object

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to answer the following question: Are antibiotic-impregnated shunts (AISs) superior to standard shunts (SSs) at reducing the risk of shunt infection in pediatric patients with hydrocephalus?

Methods

Both the US National Library of Medicine PubMed/MEDLINE database and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were queried using MeSH headings and key words relevant to AIS use in children. Abstracts were reviewed, after which studies meeting the inclusion criteria were selected. An evidentiary table was assembled summarizing the studies and the quality of their evidence (Classes I–III). A meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model to calculate a cumulative estimate of treatment effect using risk ratio (RR). Heterogeneity was assessed using the chi-square and I2 statistics. Based on the quality of the literature and the result of the meta-analysis, a recommendation was rendered (Level I, II, or III).

Results

Six studies, all Class III, met our inclusion criteria. All but one study focused on a retrospective cohort and all but one were conducted at a single institution. Four of the studies failed to demonstrate a lowered infection rate with the use of an AIS. However, when the data from individual studies were pooled together, the infection rate in the AIS group was 5.5% compared with 8.6% in the SS group. Using a random-effects model, the cumulative RR was 0.51 (95% CI 0.29–0.89, p < 0.001), indicating that a shunt infection was 1.96 times more likely in patients who received an SS.

Conclusions

We recommend AIS tubing because of the associated lower risk of shunt infection compared to the use of conventional silicone hardware (quality of evidence: Class III; strength of recommendation: Level III).

Recommendation: Antibiotic-impregnated shunt (AIS) tubing may be associated with a lower risk of shunt infection compared with conventional silicone hardware and thus is an option for children who require placement of a shunt. Strength of Recommendation: Level III, unclear degree of clinical certainty.
Pediatric hydrocephalus: systematic literature review and evidence-based guidelines. Part 9: Effect of ventricular catheter entry point and position
Authors: Kemp Joanna , Flannery Ann Marie , Tamber Mandeep S. , Duhaime Ann-Christine
Published: May 2015

Object

The objective of this guideline was to answer the following question: Do the entry point and position of the ventricular catheter have an effect on shunt function and survival?

Methods

Both the US National Library of Medicine/MEDLINE database and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were queried using MeSH headings and key words specifically chosen to identify published articles detailing the use of CSF shunts for the treatment of pediatric hydrocephalus. Articles meeting specific criteria that had been delineated a priori were then examined, and data were abstracted and compiled in evidentiary tables.

Results

The search yielded 184 abstracts, which were screened for potential relevance to the clinical question of the effect of ventricular catheter entry site on shunt survival. An initial review of the abstracts identified 14 papers that met the inclusion criteria, and these were recalled for full-text review. After review of these articles, only 4 were noted to be relevant for an analysis of the impact of entry point on shunt survival; an additional paper was retrieved during the review of full-text articles and was included as evidence to support the recommendation. The evidence included 1 Class II paper and 4 Class III papers. An evidentiary table was created including the relevant articles.

Conclusion

Recommendation: There is insufficient evidence to recommend the occipital versus frontal point of entry for the ventricular catheter; therefore, both entry points are options for the treatment of pediatric hydrocephalus. Strength of Recommendation: Level III, unclear degree of clinical certainty.
Sodium Azide as a Catalyst for the Hydration of Nitriles to Primary Amides in Water
Authors: Bahrami Kiumars , Khodaei Mohammad Mehdi , Roostaei Mohsen
Published: May 2015

The selective conversion of aromatic nitriles to primary amides has been accomplished using sodium azide. The corresponding amides were obtained efficiently in excellent yields. This reaction was carried out under eco-friendly conditions using water in the absence of organic solvents.
WH Perkin, Patent AD 1856 No 1984: A Review on Authentic Mauveine and Related Compounds
Authors: Plater M. John
Published: May 2015

John Plater graduated with First Class Honours from Loughborough University and then completed a PhD mentored by Charles W. Rees at Imperial College in London, working on an interface of organic and inorganic chemistry in the heterocyclic sulfur nitrogen group. After one year of postdoctoral research, mentored by W. Clark Still at Columbia University in New York, working on pre-organised polyether podands, he took up his post as a lecturer at Aberdeen University.

A failed attempt to make pseudo-mauveine from 10 g of aniline led the author into an on-going 6-year research programme. Drawing inspiration from the collective work of many others, recent results cast doubt on Perkin's stated method for making authentic mauveine. Uncovering an improved route into synthetic derivatives of mauveine, which contain a 3-[(N-alkyl)aryl] substituent, has led by chance to a removable and traceless 3-(N-alkyl) protecting group, which alters the composition of mauveine to closely match that of the museum-archived samples. The possibility that W. H. Perkin or others exploited this method to make mauveine is considered.
A Geomimetic Synthesis of Mellite: A Mineral Containing a Benzene Ring
Authors: Plater M. John , Harrison William T. A.
Published: May 2015

The synthesis of mellite from mellitic acid, KOH and Al2(SO4)3•18H2O is demonstrated and discussed as a potential geomimetic process for the formation of the mineral mellite in brown coal. The single crystal structures and IR spectra of the mineral mellite and of synthetic mellite are identical.
Solvent-Free Synthesis of Novel Benzodiazepine Derivatives by a Three-Component Base-Catalysed Reaction of Isatoic Anhydride, a Primary Amine and Chloroacetyl Chloride
Authors: Seydey Mohsen Khalilpour , Rezaei Zahra , Homami Seyed Saied
Published: May 2015

Heating isatoic anhydride with a series of primary amines at 150 °C under solvent-free conditions yielded 2-amino-N-alkylbenzamides which, in the same pot, reacted readily with chloroacetyl chloride in the presence of poly(dimethylaminoethyl acrylamide)-modified magnetic nanoparticles ( MNP@PDMA ), a base catalyst, to give 4-alkyl-1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-diones in good yields without formation of by-products.
Kinetics and Mechanism for Oxime Formation from 4-Pyridinecarboxaldehyde N-Oxide
Authors: Malpica A. , Calzadilla M. , Mejias I.
Published: May 2015

Oxime formation from 4-pyridine carboxaldehyde N-oxide is shown to occur with rate-determining carbinolamine dehydration under acidic and neutral conditions. First, saturation effects observed at pH~ 7 are strongly suggestive of carbinolamine accumulation, requiring that dehydration of the intermediate be the rate-determining step. Second, this reaction occurs exclusively with general acid catalysis in the pH range investigated; the value of the Brønsted exponent, α=0.66, is suggestive of rate-determining carbinolamine dehydration, not amine attack. Third, no evidence was found for the usual pH-independent reaction typical of addition of weakly basic amines to the carbonyl function. Finally the break observed in the pH-rate plot at pH near 0.5 can be interpreted in terms of protolytic equilibrium of the substrate.
One-Pot Synthesis of Novel Heterocyclic Chromenopyrimidine-2,5-Dione and ThioxochromEnopyrimidin-5-one Derivatives
Authors: Mehrabi Hossein , Baniasad-Dashtabi Mohammad
Published: May 2015

Novel heterocyclic dihydropyrimidine chromenopyrimidine-2,5-diones and thioxochromenopyrimidin-5-ones were synthesised by a three-component reaction between 4-hydroxycoumarin, urea or thiourea, and aromatic aldehydes in H2O under reflux in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (20 mol%) and two drops of acetic acid. The products were obtained in good yields and their structures of all the synthesised compounds were established by spectroscopic methods..
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis and Molecular Recognition Properties of Novel Indole Acylhydrazone Receptors
Authors: Ye Ying , Suo Yourui , Yang Fang , Yang Yongjing , Han Lijuan
Published: May 2015

Indole acylhydrazones were synthesised in high yields under microwave irradiation By using indole carboxylic acid and 1,4-benzenedialdehyde as starting materials. Their structures were characterised by 1H NMR, IR, MS spectra and elemental analysis. Selective recognition properties of these receptors have been investigated by UV-Vis spectra titration indicating that these receptors can form 1:1 supramolecular complexes with malic acid, tartaric acid, ascorbic acid and tryptophan.
A Compact Ionic Polymer Metal Composite (IPMC) System with Inductive Sensor for Closed Loop Feedback
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , McDaid Andrew , Sharma Rajnish , Aw Kean
Published: May 2015

Ionic polymer metal composite (IPMC), of which a low actuating voltage (<5 V), high power efficiency and biocompatibility makes it a proven candidate for low power devices. However, due to its inherent nonlinear behaviour and time-variance, feedback control, as well as reliable sensing means, are required for accurate operations. This paper presents an IPMC actuator implemented with an inductive sensor to enhance the reliability and compactness of the overall device. A practical, low cost and importantly, compact inductive sensor fabricated on a printed circuit board (PCB) is proposed here. Target material selections and coil design considerations are discussed. It is experimentally determined that the inductive sensor has comparable performance to a laser sensor. Based on a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control results the inductive sensor has demonstrated to be an alternative to a laser sensor allowing devices using IPMC actuators to be compact.
Multi-Objective Dynamic Economic Dispatch of Microgrid Systems Including Vehicle-to-Grid
Authors: Liu Haitao , Ji Yu , Zhuang Huaidong , Wu Hongbin
Published: May 2015

Based on the characteristics of electric vehicles (EVs), this paper establishes the load models of EVs under the autonomous charging mode and the coordinated charging and discharging mode. Integrating the EVs into a microgrid system which includes wind turbines (WTs), photovoltaic arrays (PVs), diesel engines (DEs), fuel cells (FCs) and a storage battery (BS), this paper establishes multi-objective economic dispatch models of a microgrid, including the lowest operating cost, the least carbon dioxide emissions, and the lowest pollutant treatment cost. After converting the multi-objective functions to a single objective function by using the judgment matrix method, we analyze the dynamic economic dispatch of the microgrid system including vehicle-to-grid (V2G) with an improved particle swarm optimization algorithm under different operation control strategies. With the example system, the proposed models and strategies are verified and analyzed. Simulation results show that the microgrid system with EVs under the coordinated charging and discharging mode has better operation economics than the autonomous charging mode. Meanwhile, the greater the load fluctuation is, the higher the operating cost of the microgrid system is.
Adaptive Disturbance Observer-Based Parameter-Independent Speed Control of an Uncertain Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine for Wind Power Generation Applications
Authors: Kim Seok-Kyoon , Song Hwachang , Lee Jang-Ho
Published: May 2015

This paper proposes a parameter-independent speed controller based on the classical cascade speed control strategy comprising an inner-loop current controller and an outer-loop speed controller for permanent magnet synchronous machines. The contribution of this paper is three-fold: the first is the proposal of a parameter-independent current controller in the inner loop with global asymptotic stability guarantee; the second is the presentation of a guideline for choosing stabilizing proportional-integral (PI) gains in the outer loop; and the third is designing an adaptive disturbance observer (ADOB) to predict the one step ahead state, so that this predicted state compensates the one-step time delay on the control input. The effectiveness of the proposed controller is demonstrated by simulating a wind power generation application using powerSIM (PSIM) software.
Radio Hazard Safety Assessment for Marine Ship Transmitters: Measurements Using a New Data Collection Method and Comparison with ICNIRP and ARPANSA Limits
Authors: Halgamuge Malka
Published: May 2015

We investigated the levels of radio frequency electromagnetic fields (RF EMFs) emitted from marine ship transmitters. In this study, we recorded the radio frequency (RF) electric field (EF) levels emitted from transmitters from a marine vessel focusing on the areas normally occupied by crew members and passengers. Previous studies considered radiation hazard safety assessment for marine vessels with a limited number of transmitters, such as very high-frequency (VHF) transceivers, radar and communication transmitters. In our investigation, EF levels from seven radio transmitters were measured, including: VHF, medium frequency/high frequency (MF/HF), satellite communication (Sat-Com C), AISnavigation, radar X-band and radar S-band. Measurements were carried out in a 40 m-long, three-level ship (upper deck, bridge deck and bridge roof) at 12 different locations. We developed a new data-collection protocol and performed it under 11 different scenarios to observe and measure the radiation emissions from all of the transmitters. In total, 528 EF field measurements were collected and averaged over all three levels of the marine ship with RF transmitters: the measured electric fields were the lowest on the upper deck (0.82–0.86 V/m), the highest on the bridge roof (2.15–3.70 V/m) and in between on the bridge deck (0.47–1.15 V/m). The measured EF levels were then assessed for compliance with the occupational and general public reference levels of the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) guidelines and the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) standards. The ICNIRP and the ARPANSA limits for the general public were exceeded on the bridge roof; nevertheless, the occupational limits were respected everywhere. The measured EF levels, hence, complied with the ICNIRP guidelines and the ARPANSA standards. In this paper, we provide a new data collection model for future surveys, which could be conducted with larger samples to verify our observations. Furthermore, this new method could be useful as a reference for researchers and industry professionals without direct access to the necessary equipment.
Gene Expression Signature in Endemic Osteoarthritis by Microarray Analysis
Authors: Wang Xi , Ning Yujie , Zhang Feng , Yu Fangfang , Tan Wuhong , Lei Yanxia , Wu Cuiyan , Zheng Jingjing , Wang Sen , Yu Hanjie , Li Zheng , Lammi Mikko , Guo Xiong
Published: May 2015

Kashin-Beck Disease (KBD) is an endemic osteochondropathy with an unknown pathogenesis. Diagnosis of KBD is effective only in advanced cases, which eliminates the possibility of early treatment and leads to an inevitable exacerbation of symptoms. Therefore, we aim to identify an accurate blood-based gene signature for the detection of KBD. Previously published gene expression profile data on cartilage and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from adults with KBD were compared to select potential target genes. Microarray analysis was conducted to evaluate the expression of the target genes in a cohort of 100 KBD patients and 100 healthy controls. A gene expression signature was identified using a training set, which was subsequently validated using an independent test set with a minimum redundancy maximum relevance (mRMR) algorithm and support vector machine (SVM) algorithm. Fifty unique genes were differentially expressed between KBD patients and healthy controls. A 20-gene signature was identified that distinguished between KBD patients and controls with 90% accuracy, 85% sensitivity, and 95% specificity. This study identified a 20-gene signature that accurately distinguishes between patients with KBD and controls using peripheral blood samples. These results promote the further development of blood-based genetic biomarkers for detection of KBD.
Anti-Fibrotic Effects of Class I HDAC Inhibitor, Mocetinostat Is Associated with IL-6/Stat3 Signaling in Ischemic Heart Failure
Authors: Nural-Guvener Hikmet , Zakharova Liudmila , Feehery Lorraine , Sljukic Snjezana , Gaballa Mohamed
Published: May 2015

Background: Recent studies have linked histone deacetylases (HDAC) to remodeling of the heart and cardiac fibrosis in heart failure. However, the molecular mechanisms linking chromatin remodeling events with observed anti-fibrotic effects are unknown. Here, we investigated the molecular players involved in anti-fibrotic effects of HDAC inhibition in congestive heart failure (CHF) myocardium and cardiac fibroblasts in vivo. Methods and Results: MI was created by coronary artery occlusion. Class I HDACs were inhibited in three-week post MI rats by intraperitoneal injection of Mocetinostat (20 mg/kg/day) for duration of three weeks. Cardiac function and heart tissue were analyzed at six week post-MI. CD90+ cardiac fibroblasts were isolated from ventricles through enzymatic digestion of heart. In vivo treatment of CHF animals with Mocetinostat reduced CHF-dependent up-regulation of HDAC1 and HDAC2 in CHF myocardium, improved cardiac function and decreased scar size and total collagen amount. Moreover, expression of pro-fibrotic markers, collagen-1, fibronectin and Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF) were reduced in the left ventricle (LV) of Mocetinostat-treated CHF hearts. Cardiac fibroblasts isolated from Mocetinostat-treated CHF ventricles showed a decrease in expression of collagen I and III, fibronectin and Timp1. In addition, Mocetinostat attenuated CHF-induced elevation of IL-6 levels in CHF myocardium and cardiac fibroblasts. In parallel, levels of pSTAT3 were reduced via Mocetinostat in CHF myocardium. Conclusions: Anti-fibrotic effects of Mocetinostat in CHF are associated with the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway. In addition, our study demonstrates in vivo regulation of cardiac fibroblasts via HDAC inhibition.
Periodic CO2 Dosing Strategy for Dunaliella salina Batch Culture
Authors: Ying Kezhen , Gilmour D. , Zimmerman William
Published: May 2015

A periodic CO2 dosing strategy for D. salina 19/30 batch culture is proposed. A model of periodic CO2 dosing including dosing time calculation, dosing interval estimation and final chlorophyll yield prediction was established. In experiments, 5% CO2/95% N2 gas was periodically dosed into D. salina culture. Two different gas dosing flow rates were tested. The corresponding dosing time for each flow rate was estimated via the model (10 min·d−1 for 0.7 L·min−1 and 36 min·d−1 for 0.3 L·min−1). Daily pH measurements showed that the pH of these cultures dosed periodically was always kept between 7.5 and 9.5, which highlights that periodic gas supply can maintain a suitable range of pH for microalgal growth without expensive buffers. Notably the culture dosed for set daily intervals was seen to have similar growth to the culture supplied constantly, but with much higher CO2 capture efficiency (11%–18%) compared to continuous dosing (0.25%). It shows great potential for using periodic gas supply to reduce cost, wasted gas and energy use.
Magnetochemistry: An Old Discipline with New Opportunities
Authors: Gómez-García Carlos
Published: May 2015

Even if the moment is not featured in “Youtube” and the story might have not been exactly as we have been told, we can easily imagine the surprise of the Cretan shepherd named Magnes when he observed for the first time that a black stone in the region of Magnesia (in northern Greece) attracted the iron tip of his crook almost 4000 years ago. [...]
Capgermacrenes A and B, Bioactive Secondary Metabolites from a Bornean Soft Coral, Capnella sp.
Authors: Phan Chin-Soon , Ng Shean-Yeaw , Kim Eun-A , Jeon You-Jin , Palaniveloo Kishneth , Vairappan Charles
Published: May 2015

Two new bicyclogermacrenes, capgermacrenes A (1) and B (2), were isolated with two known compounds, palustrol (3) and litseagermacrane (4), from a population of Bornean soft coral Capnella sp. The structures of these metabolites were elucidated based on spectroscopic data. Compound 1 was found to inhibit the accumulation of the LPS-induced pro-inflammatory IL-1b and NO production by down-regulating the expression of iNOS protein in RAW 264.7 macrophages.
Inhibitory Effects of Verrucarin A on Tunicamycin-Induced ER Stress in FaO Rat Liver Cells
Authors: Bae Eun , Lee Seung , Seong Sin , Cho Wonjun , Ahn Jong , Cho Hyun-Sug
Published: May 2015

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is linked with development and maintenance of cancer, and serves as a therapeutic target for treatment of cancer. Verrucarin A, isolated from the broth of Fusarium sp. F060190, showed potential inhibitory activity on tunicamycin-induced ER stress in FaO rat liver cells. In addition, the compound decreased tunicamycin-induced GRP78 promoter activity in a dose dependent manner without inducing significant inhibition of luciferase activity and cell growth for 6 and 12 h. Moreover, the compound decreased the expression of GRP78, CHOP, XBP-1, and suppressed XBP-1, and reduced phosphorylation of IRE1α in FaO rat liver cells. This evidence suggests for the first time that verrucarin A inhibited tunicamycin-induced ER stress in FaO rat liver cells.
Effects of Dietary Brazilian Palm Oil (Mauritia flexuosa L.) on Cholesterol Profile and Vitamin A and E Status of Rats
Authors: Aquino Jailane , Soares Juliana , Magnani Marciane , Stamford Thayza , Mascarenhas Robson , Tavares Renata , Stamford Tânia
Published: May 2015

In vitro studies have been carried out to establish the nutritional differences between crude and refined vegetable oils; however, the impact of the consumption of these foods on metabolism, in particular the effect of buriti oil, needs to be further evaluated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biochemical and murine parameters and the vitamin A and E status in young rats fed with diets supplemented with crude or refined buriti oil. The animals (n = 30) were randomized into three groups receiving diet added of soybean oil (control), crude buriti oil (CBO) and refined buriti oil (RBO) for 28 days. Rats fed with diet added of refined buriti oil (RBO) showed reduced total cholesterol (up to 60.27%), LDL (64.75%), triglycerides (55.47%) and enzyme aspartate transaminase (21.57%) compared to those fed with diet added of crude oil. Serum and hepatic retinol and tocopherol were higher by two to three times in CBO and RBO groups compared to the control group, but no differences were observed for murine parameters. The results indicate that buriti oil is an important source of the antioxidant vitamins A and E, and refined buriti oil is suggested as alternative to improve the lipid profile of healthy rats.
LC-MS/MS Determination and Pharmacokinetic Study of Pedunculoside in Rat Plasma after Oral Administration of Pedunculoside and Ilex rotunda Extract
Authors: Zhao Waiou , Pang Li , Xu Dahai , Zhang Nan
Published: May 2015

Ilex rotunda is widely used to treat many disorders as a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) containing 4%–5% pedunculoside (PDC). A rapid, selective, and sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method (LC-MS/MS) was developed and validated to determine PDC in rat plasma by using 3β,19α-dihydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid 28-β-D-glucopyranosyl ester (DEOG) as an internal standard. The analytes were extracted by protein precipitation and eluted on a C18 chromatography column using a mobile phase of methanol–H2O (70:30, v/v) delivered at a flow rate of 0.6 mL/min. Detection was performed using positive ion electrospray ionization in multiple reaction monitoring modes. The assay was linear over the concentration range of 0.60 ng/mL to 200 ng/mL, with a quantification limit of 0.60 ng/mL. Intra-day and inter-day precisions (%RSD) ranged from 2.12 to 9.51 for PDC, whereas the accuracy was within −7.83%~9.40%. The validated method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic study of PDC in rat plasma after oral administration of pure PDC and Ilex rotunda extract (IRE). Pharmacokinetic parameters of PDC in IRE, such as Cmax, AUC0–t, AUC0–∞, t1/2z, and CLz/F, statistically differed from those of the pure monomer (p < 0.01). However, Tmax and MRT showed no significant differences between the two groups. Results suggested that other coexisting components in IRE may decrease the absorption of PDC. Compound-compound interactions between PDC and other herbal extract components can alter the pharmacokinetic behavior of PDC. The study will be helpful in providing references for understanding the action mechanism and clinical application of Ilex rotunda.
Supervised Vicarious Calibration (SVC) of Multi-Source Hyperspectral Remote-Sensing Data
Authors: Brook Anna , Ben-Dor Eyal
Published: May 2015

Introduced in 2011, the supervised vicarious calibration (SVC) approach is a promising approach to radiometric calibration and atmospheric correction of airborne hyperspectral (HRS) data. This paper presents a comprehensive study by which the SVC method has been systematically examined and a complete protocol for its practical execution has been established—along with possible limitations encountered during the campaign. The technique was applied to multi-sourced HRS data in order to: (1) verify the at-sensor radiometric calibration and (2) obtain radiometric and atmospheric correction coefficients. Spanning two select study sites along the southeast coast of France, data were collected simultaneously by three airborne sensors (AisaDUAL, AHS and CASI-1500i) aboard two aircrafts (CASA of National Institute for Aerospace Technology INTA ES and DORNIER 228 of NERC-ARSF Centre UK). The SVC ground calibration site was assembled along sand dunes near Montpellier and the thematic data were acquired from other areas in the south of France (Salon-de-Provence, Marseille, Avignon and Montpellier) on 28 October 2010 between 12:00 and 16:00 UTC. The results of this study confirm that the SVC method enables reliable inspection and, if necessary, in-situ fine radiometric recalibration of airborne hyperspectral data. Independent of sensor or platform quality, the SVC approach allows users to improve at-sensor data to obtain more accurate physical units and subsequently improved reflectance information. Flight direction was found to be important, whereas the flight altitude posed very low impact. The numerous rules and major outcomes of this experiment enable a new standard of atmospherically corrected data based on better radiometric output. Future research should examine the potential of SVC to be applied to super-and-hyperspectral data obtained from on-orbit sensors.
Improving Remote Sensing of Aerosol Optical Depth over Land by Polarimetric Measurements at 1640 nm: Airborne Test in North China
Authors: Qie Lili , Li Zhengqiang , Sun Xiaobing , Sun Bin , Li Donghui , Liu Zhao , Huang Wei , Wang Han , Chen Xingfeng , Hou Weizhen , Qiao Yanli
Published: May 2015

An improved aerosol retrieval algorithm based on the Advanced Multi-angular Polarized Radiometer (AMPR) is presented to illustrate the utility of additional 1640-nm observations for measuring aerosol optical depth (AOD) over land using look-up table approaches. Spectral neutrality of the polarized surface reflectance over visible to short-wavelength infrared bands is verified, and the 1640-nm measurements corrected for atmospheric effects are used to estimate the polarized surface reflectance at shorter wavelengths. The AMPR measurements over the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region in north China reveal that the polarized surface reflectance of 670, 865 and 1640 nm are highly correlated with correlation slopes close to one (0.985 and 1.03) when the scattering angle is less than 145°. The 1640-nm measurements are then employed to estimate polarized surface reflectance at shorter wavelengths for each single viewing direction, which are then used to improve the retrieval of AOD over land. The comparison between AMPR retrievals and ground-based Sun-sky radiometer measurements during three experimental flights illustrates that this approach retrieves AOD at 865 nm with uncertainties ranging from 0.01 to 0.06, while AOD varies from 0.05 to 0.17.
A Flexible Three-in-One Microsensor for Real-Time Monitoring of Internal Temperature, Voltage and Current of Lithium Batteries
Authors: Lee Chi-Yuan , Peng Huan-Chih , Lee Shuo-Jen , Hung I-Ming , Hsieh Chien-Te , Chiou Chuan-Sheng , Chang Yu-Ming , Huang Yen-Pu
Published: May 2015

Lithium batteries are widely used in notebook computers, mobile phones, 3C electronic products, and electric vehicles. However, under a high charge/discharge rate, the internal temperature of lithium battery may rise sharply, thus causing safety problems. On the other hand, when the lithium battery is overcharged, the voltage and current may be affected, resulting in battery instability. This study applies the micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) technology on a flexible substrate, and develops a flexible three-in-one microsensor that can withstand the internal harsh environment of a lithium battery and instantly measure the internal temperature, voltage and current of the battery. Then, the internal information can be fed back to the outside in advance for the purpose of safety management without damaging the lithium battery structure. The proposed flexible three-in-one microsensor should prove helpful for the improvement of lithium battery design or material development in the future.
Photonic Crystal Fiber-Based Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor with Selective Analyte Channels and Graphene-Silver Deposited Core
Authors: Rifat Ahmmed , Mahdiraji G. , Chow Desmond , Shee Yu , Ahmed Rajib , Adikan Faisal
Published: May 2015

We propose a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor based on photonic crystal fiber (PCF) with selectively filled analyte channels. Silver is used as the plasmonic material to accurately detect the analytes and is coated with a thin graphene layer to prevent oxidation. The liquid-filled cores are placed near to the metallic channel for easy excitation of free electrons to produce surface plasmon waves (SPWs). Surface plasmons along the metal surface are excited with a leaky Gaussian-like core guided mode. Numerical investigations of the fiber’s properties and sensing performance are performed using the finite element method (FEM). The proposed sensor shows maximum amplitude sensitivity of 418 Refractive Index Units (RIU−1) with resolution as high as 2.4 × 10−5 RIU. Using the wavelength interrogation method, a maximum refractive index (RI) sensitivity of 3000 nm/RIU in the sensing range of 1.46–1.49 is achieved. The proposed sensor is suitable for detecting various high RI chemicals, biochemical and organic chemical analytes. Additionally, the effects of fiber structural parameters on the properties of plasmonic excitation are investigated and optimized for sensing performance as well as reducing the sensor’s footprint.
Fiscal Challenges in Multilayered Unions: An Overview and Case Study
Authors: Aizenman Joshua , Gunnarsson Gunnar
Published: May 2015

This paper reviews recent research dealing with fiscal discipline and revisit the issues of fiscal control in federal systems, focusing on selective case studies covering the 2000s, before and after the global financial crisis (GFC). We start by contrasting the recent fiscal history of California to that of Greece, illustrating the different ways of dealing with fiscal deficiencies in a mature union, U.S., versus a young union, Eurozone. We continue with an overview of the fiscal developments in Brazil, illustrating the challenges facing federal systems in emerging markets, and possible ways to move forward in upgrading a country’s fiscal institutions. We conclude with the fiscal history of Iceland before and after the financial crisis—a standalone small country, assessed favorably by rating agencies prior to the GFC, and now recovering from a deep financial crisis.
An Incentive-Based Solution of Sustainable Mobility for Economic Growth and CO2 Emissions Reduction
Authors: Herrador Manuel , Carvalho Alexandre , Feito Francisco
Published: May 2015

“Incentivized Sustainable Mobility” is a conceptual business model which involves four stakeholders: citizens, municipalities, commerce and mobility services. A platform named “ISUMO” (Incentivized Sustainable Mobility) provides technological support to this business model, integrating a set of metaservices that unifies the existing ICTs of transportation plus a unique patented QR-based (Quick Response) low-cost charging device for electric vehicles. Essentially, the system tracks and registers citizens’ transportation activities (anonymously and voluntarily) and evaluates each through a scoring system while their ecological footprint is calculated. Afterwards, citizens are able to exchange their accumulated points for discount QR coupons, to be redeemed in the associated commerce in order to purchase their products or services. The breakthrough of this business model is that it enhances awareness of sustainable mobility practices, increasing their attractiveness as perceived by the stakeholders with diverse benefits; citizens (and indirectly, the municipalities) initiate a new consumption pattern of “coupons culture” linked to sustainable mobility, the urban economy is stimulated, and the use of mobility services grows, providing a new business opportunity regarding electric vehicles. It is expected that continuous exploration of the model and implementation will contribute to sustainable social and economic development aiming at CO2 emissions reduction, headline targets of the Europe 2020 strategy.
Lowest effective 131I activity for thyroid remnant ablation of differentiated thyroid cancer patients
Authors: Moldovan A.-S. , Ruhlmann M. , Görges R. , Bockisch A. , Rosenbaum-Krumme S. , Jentzen W.
Published: May 2015

Aim: A theoretical dosimetry-based model was applied to estimate the lowest effective radioiodine activity for thyroid remnant ablation of low-risk differentiated thyroid cancer patients. Patients, methods: The model is based on the distribution of the absorbed (radiation) dose per administered radioiodine activity and the absorbed dose threshold of 300 Gy for thyroid remnants, the level believed to destroy most thyroid remnants. For this purpose, 124I PET/CT images of 49 thyroid-ectomised patients were retrospectively analysed to measure the distribution of the (average) absorbed doses to thyroid remnant per administered 131I activity. The fraction of thyroid remnants that received at least 300 Gy was determined for standard activities between 0.37 and 5.55 GBq. The lower activity was considered to be equally effective to that obtained with higher activity if the (absolute) fraction difference was below 5%. Results: A total of 62 thyroid remnants were included. The medians and ranges (in parentheses) for the absorbed dose per unit 131I activity were 359 Gy/GBq (34 to 1825 Gy/ GBq). The fractions of thyroid remnants receiving more than 300 Gy at different therapy activities (within parentheses) were 60% (1.11 GBq), 76% (1.85 GBq), 79% (2.22 GBq), and 81–82% for activities between 2.59 and 3.70 GBq. The therapy activity of 1.11 GBq is considerably less effective than that of 1.85 or 2.22 GBq; therapy activities were equally effective in the range between 2.22 to 3.70 GBq. Conclusion: On the basis of the model and the patients' data included, the lowest effective therapy activity appears to be approximately 2.2 GBq to ablate thyroid remnants. The results of this study may help to guide the design of prospective clinical studies.
Tele-audiology: Expanding Access to Hearing Care and Enhancing Patient Connectivity
Authors: Gladden Chad , Beck Lucille , Chandler David
Published: May 2015

Background: Tele-audiology within the Department of Veterans Affairs has expanded significantly in response to growing Veteran hearing needs and issues, namely maldistribution of provider resources and continued lags in timely access to care. Although tele-audiology originated
from successive telemedicine programs dating back to the early 1960s, the innovation that is currently being developed broadens tele-audiology and hearing care practice to virtual care modalities such as clinical video telehealth, store-and-forward telehealth, home telehealth, mobile health
applications, secure messaging, and electronic consults.Purpose: The purpose of this article is to address current and emerging tele-audiology initiatives in context of a connected health care practice model. It includes information on initiatives within the Department of Veterans Affairs,
provides an overview of current and potential modalities for improving patient hearing care, and identifies the challenges that exist in implementing and sustaining these services. Information is intended to stimulate creative thinking about future innovative service delivery models.Conclusion:
Significant challenges exist in the evolution of innovative tele-audiology services. Despite barriers, these initiatives have the potential to match existing capacity with emerging patient demands in a mutually beneficial partnership and can be successfully integrated into diverse health care
and private sector organizations.
Les habits neufs du familialisme
Authors: Cardi Coline
Published: May 2015

La création de nouveaux dispositifs d’aide à la parentalité s’inscrit dans la transformation de l’action sociale en direction des familles, marquée par une remise en cause des formes les plus contraintes et normatives du familialisme. En ce sens, elle participe d’un processus plus large de démocratisation familiale, fondé sur un référentiel égalitaire et émancipateur. Toutefois, le détour par l’histoire de la création de ces dispositifs et l’analyse de leur mise en œuvre oblige à nuancer ce constat. Ces nouvelles formes de gouvernement des familles populaires réactivent en effet, par le registre de la psychologie notamment, les liens étroits entre ordre social, ordre familial et ordre du genre.
L’égalité des sexes et des sexualités au prisme du droit de la famille
Authors: Marguet Laurie , Mesnil Marie
Published: May 2015

Le droit peut refléter les évolutions de la société, ou parfois les anticiper. En ce qui concerne la famille, Laurie Marguet et Marie Mesnil nous montrent que le processus est paradoxal. D’un côté, le droit a pris en compte depuis les années 1970 l’égalité entre les sexes afin d’améliorer la place des femmes au sein de l’institution familiale, et l’égalité des sexualités en offrant une reconnaissance juridique aux familles homoparentales. Mais de l’autre, il n’a pas bousculé l’ordre du genre traditionnel fondé sur une conception hétéronormée de la famille. Cette ambiguïté, du droit de la famille et de l’ordre juridique en général, est liée à une absence de réflexion transversale sur les rôles parentaux et sociaux, et à la difficulté à penser la production systémique des inégalités entre les sexes et les sexualités.
Des familles au tribunal
Authors: Coquard Benoît , Fillod-Chabaud Aurélie , Mille Muriel , Minoc Julie
Published: May 2015

Instance de production de normes par excellence, la justice apparaît comme un prisme de choix pour appréhender l’institution familiale et les mécanismes de domination qui s’y jouent. Les résultats d’une enquête sociologique menée par le Collectif Onze 1 dans des tribunaux de grande instance montrent ainsi comment la justice familiale contribue, par son intervention brève mais néanmoins décisive, à la reproduction d’un ordre hiérarchisé entre les sexes et entre les classes.
L’homosexualité dans la famille
Authors: Fassin Éric
Published: May 2015

Aux États-Unis, les débats sur l’ouverture du mariage aux homosexuels se sont abondamment appuyés sur des recherches empiriques sur l’homoparentalité, initiées dès les débuts de l’épidémie du sida. En France, ce type de recherches n’a émergé qu’à la suite des débats sur le Pacs, et est resté très peu sollicité lorsqu’il s’agissait d’inquiéter ou de rassurer sur « l’intérêt des enfants ». Éric Fassin propose ici un retour sur l’évolution des problématiques de la recherche états-unienne. Il montre comment leur élargissement aux questions de genre, de classe, de race questionne les manières de faire famille. La « normalisation » éventuelle de l’homosexualité s’accompagne ainsi d’une « queerisation » de la famille.
Transparentalités contemporaines
Authors: Hérault Laurence
Published: May 2015

Nous sommes désormais familiers du terme homoparentalité qui a débordé largement la sphère des publications en sciences sociales pour s’inviter dans les débats publics, les manifestations dominicales et les conversations ordinaires. Mais nous le sommes beaucoup moins du terme transparentalité tout juste émergeant pour désigner les familles composées au moins d’un parent trans. Revenir sur ses implicites et les mettre en regard avec les expériences des familles concernées, saisies à la fois par des données quantitatives et par des récits de vie, permet d’interroger tout autant les discriminations subies par les trans et leurs proches que les normes véhiculées par l’institution familiale.
Naissance de l’homoparentalité
Authors: Andro Armelle , Descoutures Virginie
Published: May 2015

Martine Gross est membre du Centre d’études en sciences sociales du religieux (CNRS-EHESS) et militante de la lutte contre les discriminations envers les lesbiennes et les gays. Elle a été la première présidente du groupe gay et lesbien juif de France, le Beit Haverim et s’est par la suite engagée auprès de l’Association des parents et futurs parents gays et lesbiens (APGL), qu’elle a coprésidée de 1999 à 2003. Elle a publié de nombreux ouvrages et articles de référence sur l’homoparentalité. Mouvements revient dans cet entretien sur l’itinéraire de Martine Gross.