bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Coupled Free and Forced Convection Heat Transfer in a Porous Enclosure Saturated by Nanofluid with Irregular Temperature Distributions on Sidewalls
Authors: Muthtamilselvan M. , Sureshkumar S. , Doh Deog Hee 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
A two dimensional steady and laminar mixed convection flow in lid-driven porous cavity filled with Cu-water nanofluid is presented in this numerical investigation. The vertical side walls are considered with two spatially varying sinusoidal temperature distributions of different amplitude ratios and phase deviations while the horizontal walls are thermally insulated. The transport equations are solved using finite volume method on a uniformly staggered grid system. The variations of fluid flow, heat transfer, mid-plane velocity, and Nusselt number were discussed over a wide range of Richardson number $(Ri)$
, Darcy number $(Da)$
, porosity $(\epsilon)$
, amplitude ratio $(\epsilon_a)$
, phase deviation $(\phi)$
, and solid volume fraction $(\chi)$
. The results show that the total heat transfer rate increases on increasing Darcy number, amplitude ratio, and solid volume fraction with fixed $Ri$
. For $\phi=\frac{3\pi}{4}$
, the average Nusselt number gets its maximum value when the natural convection dominates. It is found that for $Ri =0.01$
and $1$
, the total heat transfer rate decreases on increasing porosity whereas for $Ri=100$
it is contradictory. It is also observed that the heat transfer is affected mainly on the right side wall where the phase deviation varies from $0$
to $\pi$
. But the effect of $\phi$
is not significant on the left side wall. The sinusoidal temperature distribution along the sidewalls gives better heat transfer rate than the uniform temperature.
Neural Network Based Simulation of Micro Creeping Fibrous Composites SiC/Al6061 for Plastic Behaviour
Authors: Monfared Vahid 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
The present work presents a new approach based on neural network prediction for simple and fast estimation of the creep plastic behaviour of the short fiber composites. Also, this approach is proposed to reduce the solution procedure. Moreover, as a significant application of the method, shuttles and spaceships, turbine blades and discs are generally subjected to the creep effects. Consequently, analysis of the creep phenomenon is required and vital in different industries. Analysis of the creep behaviour is required for failure, fracture, fatigue, and creep resistance of the optoelectronic/photonic composites, and sensors. One of the main applications of the present work is in designing the composites with optical fibers and devices. At last, a good agreement is seen among the present prediction by neural network approach, finite element method (FEM), and the experimental results.
Application of Local Fourier Transform to Mathematical Simulation of Synchronous Machines with Valve Excitation Systems
Authors: Fedotov A. , Fedotov E. , Bahteev K. 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
The article proposes a method of mathematical simulation of electrical machines with thyristor exciters on the basis of the local Fourier transform. The present research demonstrates that this method allows switching from a variable structure model to a constant structure model. Transition from the continuous variables to the discrete variables is used. The numerical example is given in the paper.
Nanoindentation Response analysis of Thin Film Substrates-I: Strain Gradient-Divergence Approach
Authors: Kanders U. , Kanders K. 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
Nanoindentation is a widely-used method for sensitive exploration of the mechanical properties of micromechanical systems. We derive a simple empirical analysis technique to extract stress-strain field (SSF) gradient and divergence representations from nanoindentation data sets. Using this approach, local SSF gradients and structural heterogeneities can be discovered to obtain more detail about the sample’s microstructure, thus enhancing the analytic capacity of the nanoindentation technique. We demonstrate the application of the SSF gradient-divergence analysis approach to nanoindentation measurements of bulk silicon.
Untersuchung und Modulation kortikaler Inhibition mittels transkranieller Magnetstimulation
Authors: Vlachos Andreas , Funke Klaus , Ziemann Ulf 
Published: March 2017

Zusammenfassung:Die Transkranielle Magnetstimulation (TMS) ist eine nicht-invasive Hirnstimulationstechnik, die zu diagnostischen, therapeutischen und wissenschaftlichen Zwecken in der Neurologie und Psychiatrie eingesetzt wird. Sie beruht auf dem physikalischen Grundprinzip der elektromagnetischen Induktion und ermöglicht die lokale Aktivierung kortikaler Areale durch den intakten Schädel des wachen Probanden oder Patienten. Eine sogenannte repetitive TMS (rTMS) kann zu anhaltenden Veränderungen der kortikalen Erregbarkeit führen. Die TMS stellt somit einen vielversprechenden Ansatz zur nicht-invasiven Untersuchung neuronaler Netzwerke, sowie deren lang anhaltender Beeinflussung dar. Trotz ihres mittlerweile breiten klinischen Einsatzes, sind die zellulären und molekularen Wirkmechanismen der TMS noch nicht genau geklärt. Etablierte Therapiekonzepte gehen von einer Wiederherstellung einer krankheitsbedingt veränderten kortikalen Erregbarkeit aus, die auf einer „Langzeit-Potenzierung“ oder „Langzeit-Depression“ erregender Synapsen beruhen könnte. Tatsächlich zeigen tierexperimentelle Studien, dass die rTMS in der Lage ist, anhaltende Veränderungen erregender Neurotransmission zu bewirken. Es bleibt allerdings unklar, auf welche Weise synaptische Veränderungen, die durch eine elektromagnetische Aktivierung der Hirnrinde bewirkt werden und demnach nicht kontext- oder verhaltensspezifisch sind, einen positiven Einfluss auf Hirnfunktionen haben. Neuere Befunde deuten nun darauf hin, dass die rTMS in der Lage ist, neben erregenden auch hemmende neuronale Netzwerke anhaltend zu beeinflussen. So gelang es nachzuweisen, dass 10 Hz repetitive Magnetstimulation zu einer kalziumabhängigen „Langzeit-Depression“ inhibitorischer GABAerger Synapsen führt. Da der Verminderung hemmender Neurotransmission (=Disinhibition) eine wichtige Rolle bei der Bahnung assoziativer Plastizität erregender Synapsen beigemessen wird, ist davon auszugehen, dass rTMS-induzierte Disinhibition die Ausbildung kontext- und verhaltensspezifischer synaptischer Veränderungen begünstigt. Das Modell der
Mechanismen des Neuritischen Prunings
Authors: Rumpf Sebastian , Rode Sandra , Herzmann Svende , Krumkamp Rafael 
Published: March 2017

Zusammenfassung:Die Entwicklung des Nervensystems beinhaltet sowohl progressive Phasen, in denen Neuriten und Synapsen geformt werden, als auch regressive Phasen, in denen überzählige Fortsätze zurückgezogen und abgebaut werden. Solche regressiven Mechanismen werden auch als
Our hungry brain: Which role do glial cells play for the energy supply?
Authors: Deitmer Joachim W. , Theparambil Shefeeq M. , Ruminot Iván , Becker Holger M. 
Published: March 2017

Abstract:Our brain, which accounts for about 2 % of our body weight, uses up to 20 % of our total energy requirements. The supply with sufficient energetic substrates to all brain cells, which are very densely packed, in particular in the human brain, is a huge logistic challenge. The most important energy substrate for our brain is glucose, which reaches the brain via the blood circulation. Glucose is not only utilized by nerve cells directly, but to a large extent also taken up by glial cells, which then either store glucose after conversion to glycogen as energy reserve, or transfer it as lactate to nerve cells. Lactate in nerve cells can then be converted to pyruvate, which is efficiently utilized together with oxygen for the formation of chemical energy in form of ATP. The intermediate metabolic product lactate hence plays an important role as energetic substrate, which is exchanged between cells both under aerobic and non-aerobic conditions. Transport of lactate across the cell membrane is carried out in co-transport with protons (H+), which are crucial regulators of various metabolic processes and membrane transporters. In addition, the lactate carriers form a functional network with carbonic anhydrases, enzymes, which not only catalyze the equilibrium between carbon dioxide, hydrogen carbonate (bicarbonate) and protons, but also facilitate lactate transport. In this article, we focus on physiological processes of the energy metabolism in glial cells as well as on the transfer of energetic substrates to nerve cells, processes, which themselves are critically modulated by pH and its regulation in glial cells.
A study on the imaging characteristics of Gold nanoparticles as a contrast agent in X-ray computed tomography
Authors: Mesbahi Asghar , Famouri Fatemeh , Ahar Mohammad Johari , Ghaffari Maryam Olade , Ghavami Seyed Mostafa 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
Aim: In the current study, some imaging characteristics of AuNPs were quantitatively analyzed and compared with two conventional contrast media (CM) including Iodine and Gadolinium by using of a cylindrical phantom.
Methods: AuNPs were synthesized with the mean diameter of 16 nm and were equalized to the concentration of 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 mg/mL in the same volumes. A cylindrical phantom resembling the head and neck was fabricated and drilled to contain small tubes filled with Iodine, Gadolinium, and AuNPs as contrast media. The phantom was scanned in different exposure techniques and CT numbers of three studied contrast media inside test tubes were measured in terms of Hounsfield Unit (HU). The imaging parameters of the noise and contrast to noise ratios (CNR) were calculated for all studied CMs.
Results: AuNPs showed 128% and 166% higher CT number in comparison with Iodine and Gadolinium respectively. Also, Iodine had a greater CT number than Gadolinium for the same exposure techniques and concentration. The maximum CT number for AuNPs and studied contrast materials was obtained at the highest mAs and the lowest tube potential. The maximum CT number were 1033±11 (HU) for AuNP, 565±10 (HU) for Iodine, 458±11 for Gadolinium. Moreover, the maximum CNRs of 433±117, 203±53, 145±37 were found for AuNPs, Iodine and Gadolinium respectively.
Conclusion: The contrast agent based on AuNPs showed higher imaging quality in terms of contrast and noise relative to other iodine and gadolinium based contrast media in X-ray computed tomography. Application of the AuNPs as a contrast medium in x-ray CT is recommended.
Single center experience and technical nuances in the treatment of distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms
Authors: Gherasim Dorin Nicolae , Gyorki Gabriel , Balasa Adrian 
Published: March 2017

AbstractObjective: This study presents the experience of one neurosurgical center in the treatment of 18 consecutive patients with distal anterior cerebral artery (DACA) aneurysms during a 10 years period. Our aim was to compare treatment outcomes of these lesions with intracranial aneurysms in general, and to present technical nuances in surgical treatment.Methods: We analyzed the clinical and radiological data of 18 patients treated between 2005 and 2015. All patients were treated surgically using the microscope. No patients were lost to follow-up. We compared treatment and outcome of ruptured DACA aneurysms (n 18) with all consecutive ruptured aneurysms treated in our clinic during the same period (n 446).Results: DACA aneurysms accounted for 4% of all intracranial aneurysms. They were smaller (median, 5,5 versus 9 mm) We found only one case with associated aneurysms (5,5%). DACA aneurysms presented more often with intracerebral hematomas (39% versus 26%) than ruptured aneurysms in general. Their microsurgical treatment showed the same complication rates (treatment morbidity, 15%) as for other ruptured aneurysms in literature. Their mortality rate was lower (11% versus 24%).Conclusion: Despite their specific anatomic features, and particular surgical technique, with modern treatment methods, ruptured DACA aneurysms have the same favorable outcome and lower mortality as ruptured aneurysms in general.
Spinal schwannomatosis of the cauda equina in the absence of neurofibromatosis: case report and treatment strategies
Authors: Turliuc Dana , Cucu A. , Sandu R. , Dumitrescu Gabriela , Costea Claudia 
Published: March 2017

AbstractSchwannomatosis is a rare tumor syndrome characterized by the presence of multiple benign non-vestibular, non-intradermal schwannomas and by the absence of neurofibromatosis type 1 or 2 syndromes. Multiple schwannomas are clinically and genetically distinct from neurofibromatosis, and the main treatment in case of symptomatic lesions is represented by surgical resection. In case of asymptomatic lesions, the indicated treatment is neuroimaging follow-up (MRI). We are presenting the case of a patient with three schwannomas of the cauda equina, as well as the treatment strategy in the case of this rare pathology.
Surgery in cervical disc herniation: anterior cervical discectomy without fusion or with fusion
Authors: Iencean Andrei Stefan 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
The study included a group of anterior cervical microdiscectomy without fusion performed at one level (either C5-C6 level or at the C6-C7 level) and a second group of patients with same single-level of anterior cervical discectomy with fusion. The kinematic analysis included the range of motion, anteroposterior translation and disc height assessed for the cervical functional spinal units at the operated level and adjacent levels. At the operated level the range of motion and the translation were minimal in the anterior cervical discectomy without fusion group, both for the C5-C6 and C6-C7 levels, and absent in the cervical discectomy with fusion group. The superior adjacent levels translations were greater in the ACDF group compared with the ACD group. The clinical results of both types of cervical discectomy were comparable. In cervical microdiscectomy without fusion the elastic fibrous intradiscal scar at the operated level allows a small degree of mobility and the adjacent cervical levels are not overstressed. No need for anterior cervical discectomy with fusion to trait a single level cervical disc herniation than in selected cases.
Butterfly vertebra: a case report
Authors: Adam D. , Iftimie D. , Burduşa Gina , Moisescu Cristiana 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
Background and importance: Butterfly vertebra is an uncommon congenital spinal anomaly, which can be easily mistaken for vertebral fracture, infection or tumor.
Clinical presentation: We report the case of a 20-year-old male patient with a 3-year history of intermittent mid-thoracic spinal pain. Local examination showed a mild thoracic kyphoscoliosis. Neurological examination was normal. Computer tomography revealed the presence of a T6 butterfly vertebra associated with morphological anomalies in adjacent vertebral bodies and T6-T9 Schmorl’s nodes. MRI scan confirmed the diagnosis and additionally showed a mild spinal stenosis caused by apparent posterior epidural fat hypertrophy. The patient was treated with painkillers and physical therapy.
Conclusion: Butterfly vertebra is a benign condition. Once diagnosed, additional diagnostic procedures are not necessary. Neurosurgeons must be aware of this congenital anomaly that should not be confused with a vertebral fracture.
Selected International Definitions about Young Students’ Leisure Time: Theoretical and Practical Background in Poland
Authors: Janicka-Panek Teresa 
Published: March 2017

AbstractTerms such as recreation, leisure, functions of spare time, physical hygiene, mental hygiene or forms of spare time are among the issues discussed in the branch of educational science. The majority of educationalists are convinced that the issue of active leisure should form part of the core curriculum and should be an objective of education in kindergarten, in early schooling and in subsequent tiers of education. Some teaching aids (textbooks, workbooks and worksheets) for young children do reflect this process. It is worthwhile making this issue the subject of educational research in order to assess the achievements in this regard in a sub-discipline referred to as ‘early school pedagogy’. This article constitutes a preliminary theoretical and practical study to this end. It has been indicated that the students of classes I–III (depending on the attitude of parents) spends his free time in the following way: learning a foreign language, usually English sports; the other for boys and another for girls, reading books, watching television, playing on the computer, recreation with their parents, the practice of tourism, family shopping in supermarkets. It has been stated that physical activity is a popular form of recreation, which has been proven during a small-sample research project; this type of recreation meets numerous psycho-social needs; it facilitates adaptation to rapidly changing conditions of life by helping with stress management, illness prevention and fitness improvement; it shapes interpersonal relations by strengthening social integration and family ties; it also aids development of physical and artistic skills.
Peculiarities of Future Technology Teachers’ Training in Poland and Great Britain
Authors: Androshchuk Iryna , Androshchuk Ihor 
Published: March 2017

AbstractThe importance of studying foreign experience to enhance the efficiency of teacher training in higher education institutions has been justified. Peculiarities of future technology teachers’ training in Poland and Great Britain have been considered. Special attention has been paid to revealing the ways of enhancing the level of teachers’ professional competency while and after studying at university. The requirements for technology teachers’ have been specified. It has been indicated that apart from the requirements for professional training, future specialists should follow moral rules, cooperate with the participants of the education process and manage information and communication technologies. Qualification categories of teachers in Poland as well as educational routes for future technology teachers’ training in Great Britain have been found out. Based on the generalization of the study results, the authors have singled out the main cycles of professional disciplines needed for professional training of technology teachers’ training in Great Britain. The role of school placements in future teachers’ training for professional activity has been considered. It has been proved that the great amount of hours is allotted for practical training of students and forming of those skills and abilities needed in professional activity. Relative stages of students’ practical training in higher education institutions have been identified.
Understanding Changes on the Country-of-origin Effect of Portugal
Authors: Costa e Silva Susana , Saraiva Lucénio 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
The purpose of this study is to understand the international perception of Portugal, as well as the strategies used by Portuguese companies to overcome any possible negative country-of-origin (COO) effect. The paper focuses on companies belonging to different Portuguese businesses: wine, footwear and electromechanical. Cases were chosen because of the dynamic process that was correctly put forward at different levels. The results show that Portuguese companies are interested in getting to know how to accommodate or be part of that dynamic process, as this seems to be crucial if they want to succeed in international markets. The perception of Portugal is improving, and there seems to be signs of a positive COO effect being created in some instances. Most of the achievements are due to the previous success of Portuguese businesses and businesspeople in international markets that have been able to create a positive reputation. The key to success seems to be rooted in how companies combine their unique resources with technological innovations and strategic tools, backed by public policy. This study contributes to enhance the knowledge of managers on the COO effect and its effects on companies, by presenting different levels of analysis: company, industry and country level.
The Organizational Culture Dimensions – The Case of an Independent Private University in Macedonia
Authors: Zeqiri Jusuf , Alija Shpresa 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
The objective of this study is to explore how the organizational culture as one of the most vital elements of any organization affects the success of an organization. In recent years, the organizational culture has become one of the most important areas of research. Researchers simultaneously examine the concept of organizational culture in different environments in order to develop credibility and productivity in the workplace. The effectiveness of a university and how well it operates depend, to a large extent, on how the university culture is formed. This research examines and takes in consideration the 6 Hofstede's cultural dimensions: process-oriented versus results-oriented; employee-oriented versus job-oriented; parochial versus professional; open system versus closed system, loose versus tight control, and normative versus pragmatic. The paper determines the dimensions that better represent the organizational culture of an independent private university. The study attempts to explain the effect on this university’s culture, as well as the implications in administering this system which contributes in fulfilling the mission and vision, as well as its impact in developing and realizing the strategic objectives of the university itself.
Wachstum und Rentabilität badenwürttembergischer, bayerischer und niedersächsischer stromerzeugender Energiegenossenschaften im Zeitraum 2006-2015
Authors: Wulf Inge , Kramer Mike , Sackbrook Jürgen Lars 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
The cooperative energy transition does not only need energy cooperative start-ups, but also a profitable and dynamic development of the existing energy cooperatives. A balance sheet analysis of power generating energy cooperatives in Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria and Lower Saxony demonstrates the declining profitability and the missing growth dynamics.
Nurse-Driven Clinical Pathway for Inpatient Asthma: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Pound Catherine M. , Gelt Victoria , Akiki Salwa , Eady Kaylee , Moreau Katherine , Momoli Franco , Murchison Barbara , Zemek Roger , Mulholland Brett , Kovesi Tom 
Published: March 2017

OBJECTIVE:
We examined the impact of a nurse-driven clinical pathway on length of stay (LOS) for children hospitalized with asthma.

METHODS:
We conducted a randomized controlled trial involving children hospitalized with asthma. Nurses of children in the intervention group weaned salbutamol frequency using an asthma scoring tool, whereas physicians weaned salbutamol frequency for the control group patients as per standard care. The primary outcome was LOS in hours. Secondary outcomes included number of salbutamol treatments administered, ICU transfers, unplanned medical visits postdischarge, and stakeholders’ pathway satisfaction. Research staff, investigators, and statisticians were blinded to group assignment, except for research assistants enrolling participants. Qualitative interviews were done to assess acceptability of intervention by physicians, nurses, residents, and patients.

RESULTS:
We recruited 113 participants (mean age 4.9 years, 62% boys) between May 2012 and September 2015. Median LOS was 49 hours (21–243 hours) and 47 hours (22–188 hours) (P = .11), for the control and intervention groups, respectively. A post hoc analysis designed to deal with highly skewed LOS data resulted in a relative 18% (95% confidence interval 0.68–0.99) LOS reduction for the intervention group. There was no difference in secondary outcomes. No significant adverse events resulted from the intervention. The 14 participants included in the qualitative component reported a positive experience with the pathway.

CONCLUSIONS:
This nurse-driven pathway led to increased efficiency as evidenced by a modest LOS reduction. It allowed for care standardization, improved utilization of nursing resources, and high stakeholder satisfaction.