bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Muscle strength and motor function throughout life in a cross‐sectional cohort of 180 patients with spinal muscular atrophy types 1c–4
Authors: Wadman R. I. , Wijngaarde C. A. , Stam M. , Bartels B. , Otto L. A. M. , Lemmink H. H. , Schoenmakers M. A. G. C. , Cuppen I. , van den Berg L. H. , van der Pol W. L. 
Published: November 2017

Background and purposeNatural history studies in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) have primarily focused on infants and children. Natural history studies encompassing all age groups and SMA types are important for the interpretation of treatment effects of recently introduced survival motor neuron gene‐augmenting therapies.MethodsWe conducted a cross‐sectional study to investigate muscle strength, Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale (Expanded) score and the patterns of muscle weakness in relation to age and SMA type.ResultsWe included 180 patients with SMA types 1–4 in the age range 1–77.5 years with median disease duration of 18 (range 0–65.8) years. With the exception of the early phases of disease in which children with SMA types 2 and 3 may achieve new motor skills and show a temporary increase in muscle strength, cross‐sectional data suggested that declining muscle strength and loss of motor skills over time are characteristic of all SMA types. Mean loss of strength was at least 1 point on the Medical Research Council score and 0.5 point on the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale (Expanded) score per year. Trend lines compatible with deterioration of motor function and muscle strength started in childhood and continued into adulthood. The age at loss of specific motor skills was associated with disease severity. Triceps, deltoid, iliopsoas and quadriceps were the weakest muscles in all patients. Hierarchical cluster analysis did not show a segmental distribution of muscle weakness as suggested previously.ConclusionsProgressive muscle weakness and loss of motor function are characteristic of all SMA types and all ages.
Optical performances of mono‐dispersed spherical YAG:Ce3+ nano‐phosphor achieved by one‐pot synthesis
Authors: Zhao Yunyun , Zhang Xiuyun , Yan Dongliang , Zhu Guisheng , Liang CaiHang , Yang Xiaoqing , Xu Huarui , Yu Aibing 
Published: November 2017

AbstractMono‐dispersed spherical YAG:Ce3+ nano‐phosphors were successfully synthesized by a one‐pot glycol‐thermal process using aluminum isopropoxide, yttrium, and cerium acetate hydrates as the precursor, (1,4)‐butanediol as the solvent, ethidenediamine as the additive agent that can both control the morphology and improve the optical performances of the as‐achieved products. The as‐prepared YAG:Ce3+ nano‐phosphors displayed mono‐dispersed spheres of about 150 nm and an improved optical performance with a quantum yield (QY) of 41% and good photostability, indicating that they have a considerable potential to be applied in solid‐state lighting or used as coatings in other optical electronic devices.
Physical forces modulate cell differentiation and proliferation processes
Authors: Schwartz Laurent , da Veiga Moreira Jorgelindo , Jolicoeur Mario 
Published: November 2017

AbstractCurrently, the predominant hypothesis explains cellular differentiation and behaviour as an essentially genetically driven intracellular process, suggesting a gene‐centrism paradigm. However, although many living species genetic has now been described, there is still a large gap between the genetic information interpretation and cell behaviour prediction. Indeed, the physical mechanisms underlying the cell differentiation and proliferation, which are now known or suspected to guide such as the flow of energy through cells and tissues, have been often overlooked. We thus here propose a complementary conceptual framework towards the development of an energy‐oriented classification of cell properties, that is, a mitochondria‐centrism hypothesis based on physical forces‐driven principles. A literature review on the physical–biological interactions in a number of various biological processes is analysed from the point of view of the fluid and solid mechanics, electricity and thermodynamics. There is consistent evidence that physical forces control cell proliferation and differentiation. We propose that physical forces interfere with the cell metabolism mostly at the level of the mitochondria, which in turn control gene expression. The present perspective points towards a paradigm shift complement in biology.
Surgical treatment of the residual periodontal pocket
Authors: Graziani Filippo , Karapetsa Dimitra , Mardas Nikolaos , Leow Natalie , Donos Nikolaos 
Published: November 2017

AbstractThe ultimate goal of periodontal therapy is to prevent further disease progression in order to reduce the risk of tooth loss. This objective can be achieved through a number of therapeutic modalities comprising both the nonsurgical and surgical phases of periodontal therapy. Nonsurgical periodontal treatment has been shown to control periodontal infection and to arrest progression of the disease in a significant number of cases. However, despite completion of nonsurgical treatment, a number of periodontal pockets, defined as ‘residual’, often remain. The presence of residual pockets may jeopardize tooth survival and be a risk factor of further disease progression, and ultimately tooth loss. Therefore, the aim of this review is to analyze the knowledge available on the indications for and the performance of periodontal surgical treatment of residual pockets in terms of ‘traditional’ (clinical, microbiological), patient‐based and systemic health outcomes.
Factors Driving the Promotion of Hydroelectricity: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis
Authors: Kammermann Lorenz 
Published: November 2017

AbstractIn the wake of the COP21 conference in Paris, the transition to a low‐carbon energy supply remains a central issue on the political agenda. The deployment of renewable energies is often challenged by multiple issues (e.g., public acceptance, landscape protection, and so forth). Political actors try to overcome such challenges with various measures; however, the policy instruments used vary greatly in their strength. This article questions what factors lead to the adoption of strong policy instruments promoting hydroelectricity. Explanatory factors are derived from Kingdon's multiple streams framework and are analyzed with fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis within the Swiss cantons. The findings show that the strength of policy promoting hydroelectricity depends on the conjunction of mainly two factors: ambitious climate targets and an already well‐established hydroelectricity sector that generates large tax revenues for the cantons. Depending on the context, the strength of left‐wing and green parties as well as the current level of exploitation play an important role with the aforementioned factors.
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Smith Robert 
Published: November 2017

Journal of Education and Training Studies (JETS) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether JETS publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 5, Number 12Anne M. Hornak, Central Michigan University, USAAntónio Calha, Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre, PortugalAubri Rote, University of North Carolina at Asheville, USACagla Atmaca, Pamukkale University, TurkeyErica D. Shifflet-Chila, Michigan State University, USAFatma Ozudogru, Usak University, TurkeyIntakhab Khan, King Abdulaziz University, Saudi ArabiaIoannis Syrmpas, University of Thessaly, GreeceJohn Bosco Azigwe, Bolgatanga Polytechnic, GhanaJohn Cowan, Edinburgh Napier University, UKKatya De Giovanni, University of Malta, MaltaLaima Kyburiene, Kaunas University of Applied Sciences, LithuaniaLinda J. Rappel, Yorkville University/University of Calgary, CanadaLisa Marie Portugal, Grand Canyon University, USALorna T. Enerva, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, PhilippinesMarcie Zaharee, The MITRE Corporation, USAMarco Antonio Catussi Paschoalotto, University of São Paulo, BrazilMaria Pavlis Korres, Hellenic Open University, GreeceMatthews Tiwaone Mkandawire, Central China Normal University, MalawiMaurizio Sajeva, Pellervo Economic Research PTT, FinlandMehmet Inan, Marmara University, TurkeyMeral Seker, Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University, TurkeyMichail Kalogiannakis, University of Crete, GreeceMin Gui, Wuhan University, ChinaMu-hsuan Chou, Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages, TaiwanMustafa Uğraş, Fırat University, TurkeyNele Kampa, Leibniz-Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN), GermanyPhil Sirinides, University of Pennsylvania, USAPuneet S. Gill, Texas A&M International University, USARichard H. Martin, Mercer University, USASamad Mirza Suzani, Islamic Azad University, IranSelloane Pitikoe, University of Kwazulu-Natal, South AfricaSimona Savelli, Università degli Studi Guglielmo Marconi, ItalySisi Chen, American University of Health Sciences, USAStamatis Papadakis, University of Crete, GreeceSuzan Kavanoz, Yıldız Technical University, TurkeyThomas K. F. Chiu, The University of Hong Kong, Hong KongTilanka Chandrasekera, Oklahoma State University, USAVeronica Rosa, University Rome, ItalyYerlan Seisenbekov, Kazakh National Pedagogical University, Kazakhstan Robert SmithEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of Journal of Education and Training StudiesRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://jets.redfame.com
Hybrid-Electric Turbocharger and High-Speed SiC Variable-Frequency Drive Using Sensorless Control Algorithm
Authors: Carpenter Andrew L. , Beechner Troy L. , Tews Brian E. , Yelvington Paul E. 
Published: November 2017

Electrically-assisted engine boosting systems lend themselves to better throttle response, wider effective operating ranges, and can provide the ability to extract excess energy during deceleration and high-load events (and store it in a vehicle’s onboard batteries). This can lead to better overall vehicle performance, emissions, and efficiency while allowing for further engine downsizing and increased power density.
In this research effort, a hybrid-electric turbocharger, variable-frequency drive (VFD), and novel sensorless control algorithm were developed. An 11kW permanent-magnet machine was coupled to a commercial turbocharger via an in-line, bolt-on housing attached to the compressor inlet. A high-efficiency, high-temperature variable-frequency drive, consisting of custom control and power electronics, was also developed. The variable-frequency drive uses SiC MOSFETS to achieve high-switching frequency and can be cooled using an existing engine coolant loop operating at up to 105 °C at an efficiency greater than 98%. A digital sliding mode-observer (DSMO) sensorless speed control algorithm was created to command and regulate speed and achieved ramp rates of over 68,000 rpm/sec.
A two-machine benchtop motor/generator test stand was constructed for initial testing and tuning of the VFD and sensorless control algorithm. A gas blow-down test stand was constructed to test the mechanical operation of the hybrid-electric turbocharger and speed control using the VFD. In addition, a liquid-pump cart was assembled for high-temperature testing of the VFD. Initial on-engine testing is planned for later this year. This paper intends to present a design overview of the in-line, hybrid-electric device, VFD, and performance characterization of the electronics and sensorless control algorithm.
Application of Hyperbolic Tangent Approximation Model to Gasoline Direct Injection Engine Simulation
Authors: Hosaka Tomoyuki , Sugii Taisuke , Ishii Eiji , Oryoji Kazuhiro , Sukegawa Yoshihiro 
Published: November 2017

The improved fuel economy and low pollutant emissions are highly demanded for internal combustion engines. Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine is the one of promising devices for highly efficient engine. However, GDI engines generally tend to emit more Particulate Matter (PM) than Port Fuel Injection (PFI) engine because the fuel sprayed from the injector can easily attach to the wall, which is the major origin of PM. Therefore, the precise analysis of the fuel/air mixture formation and the prediction of emissions are required. From the view of industrial use, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) becomes a necessary tool for the various analyses including the fuel/air mixture formation, spray attachment on the cylinder wall, the in-cylinder turbulence formation, the combustion and emission etc.
In our previous study, the flow and spray simulation in internal combustion engine has been conducted using OpenFOAM®, the open-source CFD toolbox. Since the engine involves the dynamic motion such as valve and piston, the morphing and mapping approach was employed. Furthermore, by virtue of open-source code, we have developed the methodology of the hybrid simulation from the internal nozzle flow to the fuel/air mixture in order to take into account detailed breakup process nearby injector nozzle.
We expand the above research to the combustion simulation. For the combustion model, the Hyperbolic Tangent Approximation (HTA) model is adopted. The HTA model has a simple form of equation and one can easily implement; moreover, the HTA model has the following features: 1. capability of both laminar and turbulent flow, 2. the clearness of analytical derivation based on the functional approximation of the reaction progress variable distribution in a one-dimensional laminar flame. In the current study, the premixed flame is studied on a gasoline combustion engine. The simulations for in-cylinder engine are conducted with different Air/Fuel (A/F) ratio conditions, and the results are compared with the experimental results. The in-cylinder pressure agrees well with experimental results and the validity of the current methodology is confirmed.
Methods to Improve Combustion Stability, Efficiency, and Power Density of a Small, Port-Injected, Spark-Ignited, Two-Stroke Natural Gas Engine
Authors: Johnson Derek , Darzi Mahdi , Ulishney Chris , Bade Mehar , Zamani Nima 
Published: November 2017

Two-stroke engines are often used for their low cost, simplicity, and power density. However, these engines suffer efficiency penalties due to fuel short-circuiting. Increasing power density has previously been an area of focus for performance two-stroke engines — such as in dirt bikes. Smaller-displacement engines have also been used to power remote controlled cars, boats, and aircraft. These engines typically rely on gasoline or higher-octane liquid fuels. However, natural gas is an inherently knock-resistant fuel and small natural gas engines and generators could see increased market penetration. Power generators typically operate at a fixed frequency with varied load, which can take advantage of intake and exhaust system tuning. In addition, stationary engines may not be subject to size restrictions of optimal intake and exhaust systems.
This paper examines methods to improve combustion stability, efficiency, and power density of a 29cc air-cooled two-stroke engine converted to operate on natural gas. Initial conversion showed significant penalties on delivery ratio, which lowered power density and efficiency. To overcome these issues a tuned intake pipe, two exhaust resonators, and a combustion dome were designed and tested. The engine was operated at 5400 RPM and fueling was adjusted to yield maximum brake-torque (MBT). All tests were conducted under wide-open throttle conditions. The intake and exhaust systems were designed based on Helmholtz resonance theory and empirical data. The engine utilized a two-piece cylinder head with removable combustion dome. The combustion dome was modified for optimal compression ratio while decreasing squish area and volume. With all designs incorporated, power increased from 0.22 kW to 1.07 kW — a factor of 4.86. Efficiency also increased from 7% to 12%. In addition to these performance gains, the coefficient of variation (COV) of indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) decreased from just above 11% to less than 4%.
European normative values for physical fitness in children and adolescents aged 9–17 years: results from 2 779 165 Eurofit performances representing 30 countries
Authors: Tomkinson Grant R , Carver Kevin D , Atkinson Frazer , Daniell Nathan D , Lewis Lucy K , Fitzgerald John S , Lang Justin J , Ortega Francisco B 
Published: November 2017

ObjectiveTo develop sex-specific and age-specific normative values for the nine Eurofit tests in European children and adolescents aged 9–17 years.MethodsA systematic review was undertaken to identify papers that explicitly reported descriptive results for at least one of nine Eurofit tests (measuring balance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, muscular power, flexibility, speed, speed-agility and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF)) on children and adolescents. Data were included on apparently healthy (free from known disease/injury) children and adolescents aged 9–17 years. Following harmonisation for methodological variation where appropriate, pseudodata were generated using Monte Carlo simulation, with population-weighted sex-specific and age-specific normative centiles generated using the Lambda Mu Sigma (LMS) method. Sex-specific and age-specific differences were expressed as standardised differences in means, with the percentage of children and adolescents with healthy CRF estimated at the sex-age level.ResultsNorms were displayed as tabulated centiles and as smoothed centile curves for the nine Eurofit tests. The final dataset included 2 779 165 results on children and adolescents from 30 European countries, extracted from 98 studies. On average, 78% of boys (95% CI 72% to 85%) and 83% of girls (95% CI 71% to 96%) met the standards for healthy CRF, with the percentage meeting the standards decreasing with age. Boys performed substantially (standardised differences >0.2) better than girls on muscular strength, muscular power, muscular endurance, speed-agility and CRF tests, but worse on the flexibility test. Physical fitness generally improved at a faster rate in boys than in girls, especially during the teenage years.ConclusionThis study provides the largest and most geographically representative sex-specific and age-specific European normative values for children and adolescents, which have utility for health and fitness screening, profiling, monitoring and surveillance.
The PLA and Taiwan Policy under Xi Jinping: One Joint Actor without Its Own Agenda
Authors: DING ARTHUR S. 
Published: November 2017

After the Chinese Communist Party’s 18th Party Congress was held in the fall of 2012, frequently asked questions were: Is Xi Jinping able to rein in the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and what is the state of Chinese party-military relations? What are the implications of this status for the PLA in China’s Taiwan policy-making? What is the potential impact of Taiwan’s leadership transition on China’s Taiwan policy and on the PLA’s role?This author argues that through a stick and carrot approach, Xi has become the leader of China, and has been able to rein in the PLA. His proactive and assertive approach in the context of China’s growing capabilities has empowered him to control the discourse of Taiwan policy. In these circumstances, the PLA will continue to be one joint actor within the relevant apparatus executing Taiwan policy without its own agenda. Uncertainty as a result of the ruling party rotation in Taiwan is unlikely to change the PLA’s role.
Sustained Activation of Rho GTPases Promotes a Synthetic Pulmonary Artery Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotype in Neprilysin Null Mice
Authors: Karoor Vijaya , Fini Mehdi A. , Loomis Zoe , Sullivan Timothy , Hersh Louis B. , Gerasimovskaya Evgenia , Irwin David , Dempsey Edward C. 
Published: November 2017

Objective—
Pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) from neprilysin (NEP) null mice exhibit a synthetic phenotype and increased activation of Rho GTPases compared with their wild-type counterparts. Although Rho GTPases are known to promote a contractile SMC phenotype, we hypothesize that their sustained activity decreases SM-protein expression in these cells.

Approach and Results—

PASMCs isolated from wild-type and NEP
−/−
mice were used to assess levels of SM-proteins (SM-actin, SM-myosin, SM22, and calponin) by Western blotting, and were lower in NEP
−/−
PASMCs compared with wild-type. Rac and Rho (ras homology family member) levels and activity were higher in NEP
−/−
PASMCs, and ShRNA to Rac and Rho restored SM-protein, and attenuated the enhanced migration and proliferation of NEP
−/−
PASMCs. SM-gene repressors, p-Elk-1, and Klf4 (Kruppel lung factor 4), were higher in NEP
−/−
PASMCs and decreased by shRNA to Rac and Rho. Costimulation of wild-type PASMCs with PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor) and the NEP substrate, ET-1 (endothelin-1), increased Rac and Rho activity, and decreased SM-protein levels mimicking the NEP knock-out phenotype. Activation of Rac and Rho and downstream effectors was observed in lung tissue from NEP
−/−
mice and humans with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Conclusions—

Sustained Rho activation in NEP
−/−
PASMCs is associated with a decrease in SM-protein levels and increased migration and proliferation. Inactivation of RhoGDI (Rho guanine dissociation inhibitor) and RhoGAP (Rho GTPase activating protein) by phosphorylation may contribute to prolonged activation of Rho in NEP
−/−
PASMCs. Rho GTPases may thus have a role in integration of signals between vasopeptides and growth factor receptors and could influence pathways that suppress SM-proteins to promote a synthetic phenotype.
Both Autocrine Signaling and Paracrine Signaling of HB-EGF Enhance Ocular Neovascularization
Authors: Inoue Yuki , Shimazawa Masamitsu , Nakamura Shinsuke , Takata Shinsuke , Hashimoto Yuhei , Izawa Hiroshi , Masuda Tomomi , Tsuruma Kazuhiro , Sakaue Tomohisa , Nakayama Hironao , Higashiyama Shigeki , Hara Hideaki 
Published: November 2017

Objective—
The incidence of blindness is increasing because of the increase in abnormal ocular neovascularization. Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) therapies have led to good results, although they are not a cure for the blindness. The purpose of this study was to determine what role HB-EGF (heparin-binding epidermal growth factor–like growth factor) plays in ocular angiogenesis.

Approach and Results—

We examined the role played by HB-EGF in ocular neovascularization in 2 animal models of neovascularization: laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and oxygen-induced retinopathy. We also studied human retinal microvascular endothelial cells in culture. Our results showed that the neovascularization was decreased in both the CNV and oxygen-induced retinopathy models in HB-EGF conditional knockout mice compared with that in wild-type mice. Moreover, the expressions of HB-EGF and VEGF were increased after laser-induced CNV and oxygen-induced retinopathy, and their expression sites were located around the neovascular areas. Exposure of human retinal microvascular endothelial cells to HB-EGF and VEGF increased their proliferation and migration, and CRM-197 (cross-reactive material-197), an HB-EGF inhibitor, decreased the HB-EGF–induced and VEGF-induced cell proliferation and migration. VEGF increased the expression of
HB-EGF
mRNA. VEGF-dependent activation of EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor)/ERK1/2 (extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2) signaling and cell proliferation of endothelial cells required stimulation of the ADAM17 (a disintegrin and metalloprotease) and ADAM12. CRM-197 decreased the grades of the fluorescein angiograms and size of the CNV areas in marmoset monkeys.

Conclusions—
These findings suggest that HB-EGF plays an important role in the development of CNV. Therefore, further investigations of HB-EGF are needed as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of exudative age-related macular degeneration.