bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Obesity and brain inflammation: a focus on multiple sclerosis
Authors: Palavra F. , Almeida L. , Ambrósio A. F. , Reis F. 
Published: January 2016

SummaryThe increase in prevalence of obesity in industrialized societies is an indisputable fact. However, the apparent passive role played by adipocytes, in pathophysiological terms, has been gradually substituted by a metabolically active performance, relevant to many biochemical mechanisms that may contribute to a chronic low‐grade inflammatory status, which increasingly imposes itself as a key feature of obesity. This chronic inflammatory status will have to be integrated into the complex equation of many diseases in which inflammation plays a crucial role. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory condition typically confined to the central nervous system, and many work has been produced to find possible points of contact between the biology of this immune‐mediated disease and obesity. So far, clinical data are not conclusive, but many biochemical features have been recently disclosed. Brain inflammation has been implicated in some of the mechanisms that lead to obesity, which has also been recognized as an important player in inducing some degree of immune dysfunction. In this review, we collected evidence that allows establishing bridges between obesity and MS. After considering epidemiological controversies, we will focus on possible shared mechanisms, as well as on the potential contributions that disease‐modifying drugs may have on this apparent relationship of mutual interference.
Effect of intravenous magnesium sulfate on mortality in patients with severe acute asthma
Authors: Hirashima Junko , Yamana Hayato , Matsui Hiroki , Fushimi Kiyohide , Yasunaga Hideo 
Published: January 2016

AbstractBackground and objectiveIntravenous magnesium sulfate is used as adjunctive therapy for severe asthma exacerbations. However, previous randomized controlled trials of the administration of intravenous magnesium sulfate for asthma exacerbations have shown mixed results, and no study has evaluated its effect on mortality in patients with life‐threatening asthma. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between intravenous magnesium sulfate administration and mortality in patients with severe asthma.MethodsPatients with severe asthma requiring intravenous corticosteroids and oxygenation were selected using the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination inpatient database. One‐to‐one propensity score matching was performed between patients having received or not intravenous magnesium sulfate. Primary outcomes were 7‐, 14‐ and 28‐day mortalities. Secondary outcomes were total dose of intravenous corticosteroids during hospitalization, duration of mechanical ventilation and length of stay.ResultsAmong 14 122 eligible patients, 619 received intravenous magnesium sulfate. Propensity score matching created a matched cohort of 599 pairs with and without intravenous magnesium sulfate. There were no significant differences between patients with and without intravenous magnesium sulfate in terms of 28‐day mortality (1.3% vs 1.8%, P = 0.488), median total dose of intravenous corticosteroids (2400 mg vs 2400 mg, P = 0.580), median duration of mechanical ventilation (1 day vs 1 day, P = 0.118) and median length of stay (16 days vs 13 days, P = 0.640).ConclusionThis study found no significant benefit of intravenous magnesium sulfate use in terms of mortality in patients with severe acute asthma.
COPD is characterized by increased detection of Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae and a deficiency of Bacillus species
Authors: Simpson Jodie L. , Baines Katherine J. , Horvat Jay C. , Essilfie Ama‐Tawiah , Brown Alexandra C. , Tooze Melinda , McDonald Vanessa M. , Gibson Peter G. , Hansbro Philip M. 
Published: January 2016

AbstractBackground and objectiveChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by progressive airflow limitation and inflammation. Airway bacterial colonization is increased in COPD; however, the role of potentially pathogenic and non‐pathogenic bacteria in the pathogenesis of disease is unclear. This study characterized the presence of bacteria in a well‐characterized cohort of adults with COPD and healthy controls.MethodsAdults with COPD (n = 70) and healthy controls (n = 51) underwent clinical assessment and sputum induction. Sputum was dispersed, and total and differential cell counts were performed. Bacteria were cultured, identified and enumerated. Supernatants were assessed for neutrophil elastase (NE) and IL‐1β. Common respiratory pathogens were also determined using real‐time PCR.ResultsParticipants with COPD had a typical neutrophilic inflammatory profile. The total load of bacteria was increased in COPD and was associated with poorer respiratory health status, as measured by the St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (Spearman's r = 0.336, P = 0.013). Significantly lower levels of culturable Bacillus species were identified compared with healthy controls. PCR analyses revealed increased rates of detection of potentially pathogenic bacteria with Haemophilus influenzae detection associated with higher sputum levels of NE and IL‐1β, while Streptococcus pneumoniae was more common in male ex‐smokers with emphysema and a deficit in diffusion capacity.ConclusionNon‐pathogenic and pathogenic bacteria were altered in the sputum of patients with COPD. These observations highlight the potential to identify treatment and management strategies that both target specific bacterial pathogens and restore the microbial balance, which may lead to reductions in inflammation and subsequent improvements in lung health.
Social anxiety and adolescence: Interpretation bias in an Italian Sample
Authors: Giannini Marco , Loscalzo Yura 
Published: January 2016

Interpretation bias, namely the tendency to systematically assign a negative meaning to ambiguous social situations, has been extensively studied in adult populations, while in adolescents it has received little attention. We aimed to address this gap by analyzing the three components of interpretation bias (negative interpretations, positive interpretations, belief in negative interpretations) in Italian adolescents aged between 14 and 17, comparing two groups: high (n = 32) and average (n = 33) social anxiety. The participants filled Social Phobia Inventory (SPIN), Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), and Adolescents’ Interpretation and Belief Questionnaire (AIBQ). We found that the bias is specific to social anxiety (not due to the presence of negative mood) and present only in social situations. Instead, contrary to the hypothesis, Italian adolescents with high social anxiety have both negative bias and absence of the positive bias. Hence, preventive interventions should focus not only on the reduction of negative interpretations. They should also reinforce positive interpretations and target belief in negative interpretations. Based on these considerations, we gave some suggestions to improve the tasks of the Cognitive Bias Modification addressed to adolescents. Finally, belief in negative interpretations and the relationship between negative and positive interpretations in social anxiety deserve further study, both in adolescents and in adults.
The association between stress, self‐esteem and depressive symptoms in adolescents
Authors: Moksnes Unni K. , Bradley Eilertsen Mary‐Elizabeth , Lazarewicz Magdalena 
Published: January 2016

This cross‐sectional study investigated gender and age differences on domains of stress, self‐esteem and depressive symptoms, as well as the association between those domains using a sample of Norwegian adolescents (N = 1,239). The data was analysed using Pearson product moment correlation, t‐tests, and hierarchical multiple regression analyses. The results showed significant differences between genders. Girls scored higher on five of seven stressor domains comprising peer pressure, home life, school attendance, school/leisure conflict and school performance as well as depression, while boys scored significantly higher on self‐esteem. The hierarchical multiple regression analysis showed that higher stress from school performance and school attendance related significantly to more depressive symptoms in both genders. Additionally, stress of home life significantly related to more depressive symptoms in girls, whereas stress of peer pressure was significant in association with depressive symptoms in boys. A strong, inverse association was found between self‐esteem and depression controlled for stress, especially in girls. Self‐esteem was not found to be a moderator of any stressor‐depression interactions. In conclusion, the results give support for the significant role of stress and self‐esteem on the experience of depressive symptoms in adolescents.
Failure Prediction Model and ESR Modeling of Electrolytic Capacitor With Application to Predictive Maintenance
Authors: Malek Hadi , Dadras Sara , Chen YangQuan 
Published: January 2016

Being one of the most used passive components in power electronics, electrolytic capacitors have the shortest life span due to their wear-out failure which is mainly caused by vaporization and deterioration of capacitor electrolyte. Knowing these two phenomena increase Equivalent Series Resistance (ESR) of the capacitor, tracking ESR value over the system operating time can be a good indicator for state of health of an electrolytic capacitor. In order to set the maintenance schedule, various ESR monitoring algorithms computing remaining time before failure have been investigated in literature. These real-time algorithms use classical models for ESR and life-time estimation which are not precise enough and leads the maintenance program to be either risky if the prediction is more than the actual life-time or more expensive if it is much less than the actual life span.
This paper presents a generalized equivalent model using fractional order element for electrolytic capacitor to estimate the ESR and impedance of faultless running capacitor. Unlike other existing fractional order models, proposed model considers a fractional order dynamic only in the dielectric losses and the terminal capacitor remains integer order as observed in actual capacitor’s behavior.
Furthermore, a novel failure predictive model using Mittage-Leffler function is proposed to track the ESR increment due to aging of the capacitor and estimate the failure time based on the information which are provided through ESR monitoring system. Using this model increase the life-time prediction accuracy. Hence the predictive maintenance of the system with capacitors nearing their failure time can be set more precisely. These two fractional order models are compared against classical ESR and life-time prediction models to illustrate the enhanced performances of the proposed models.
Correlation of Relevant Case Properties and the Flank Load Carrying Capacity of Case-Hardened Gears
Authors: Koenig Johannes , Koller Peter , Tobie Thomas , Stahl Karsten 
Published: January 2016

The flank load carrying capacity of case-hardened gears is significantly influenced by the condition of the case properties. A negatively influenced case, e.g. due to grinding burn, may result in a significantly reduced load carrying capacity of the tooth flank. On the other hand, additional finishing methods such as shot peening and superfinishing allow a positive influence on the case properties, resulting in a further increase of the tooth flank load carrying capacity. The variation of the case properties is not adequately taken into account by the current standards DIN 3990 / ISO 6336.
This paper summarizes the results of the FVA research project 521 I. This project investigated the effects of shot peening and superfinishing on the tooth flank load carrying capacity. Based on the experimental results, an extension of the calculation method for the permissible contact stress σHP is proposed.
Prediction of Isolated Resonance Curves Using Nonlinear Normal Modes
Authors: Kuether R. J. , Renson L. , Detroux T. , Grappasonni C. , Kerschen G. , Allen M. S. 
Published: January 2016

Isolated resonance curves are separate from the main nonlinear forced-response branch, so they can easily be missed by a continuation algorithm and the resonant response might be underpredicted. The present work explores the connection between these isolated resonances and the nonlinear normal modes of the system and adapts an energy balance criterion to connect the two. This approach provides new insights into the occurrence of isolated resonances as well as a method to find an initial guess to compute the isolated resonance curve using numerical continuation.
The concepts are illustrated on a finite element model of a cantilever beam with a nonlinear spring at its tip. This system presents jumps in both frequency and amplitude in its response to a swept sinusoidal excitation. The jumps are found to be the result of a modal interaction that creates an isolated resonance curve that eventually merges with the main resonance branch as the excitation force increases. Excellent insight into the observed dynamics is provided with the NNM theory, which supports that NNMs can also be a useful tool for predicting isolated resonance curves and other behaviors in the damped, forced response.
Method of Predicting Differential Case Bolt Behavior
Authors: Nukata Takanori , Arai Yasuo , Kamimura Mitsunori , Kido Taketoshi , Yamazaki Masahiko 
Published: January 2016

This paper proposes a CAE-based method to predict the maximum load at which bolts start to loosen. The qualitative validity of this method was confirmed using the fastening bolts between the differential case and ring gear.
In general, the differential case and ring gear are fastened with bolts. Therefore, it is essential to estimate the maximum load of bolt loosening when designing these bolts. Moreover, prototypes found that tightening bolts are more likely to loosen as the thickness of the differential case or ring gear decreases and becomes easier to deform. This indicates that the deformation of the differential case and ring gear must be considered in bolt design. However, predicting the maximum load is relatively difficult because the behavior of both the screw and the contact surface between the differential case and ring gear is complicated.
In contrast, recent transmissions require further weight reduction without sacrificing reliability. Consequently, a method of predicting the maximum load of bolt loosening is required.
First, this paper describes a CAE model for estimating the pressure and friction generated at the contact surface between the differential case and ring gear, as well as at the screw surface and bolt seating surface. Furthermore, a method for determining bolt loosening is described that incorporates the pressure and friction on the bolt seating surface into friction circle theory. This method was used to derive the maximum load of bolt loosening. In addition, it was also confirmed that the results qualitatively agree with actual cases of bolt loosening.
Second, this paper identifies the relative sliding of the screw surface and contact surface when the load increases. In this case, it was verified that the sliding on the contact surface between the differential case and ring gear induces relative sliding of the screw, followed by sliding of the bolt bearing surface and loosening of the bolt.
Finally, this paper refers to design guidelines for reducing the weight of the differential case using an experimental design method. Certain ribs cause non-uniform bolt bearing surface pressure distribution, which likely affects bolt loosening.
Through this research, the validity of the method was confirmed and the bolt behavior was clarified when a differential case and ring gear are loaded in one direction. Based on these results, it should be possible to apply this method to more complicated load cases in the future.
Design of a Rapid Inspection Machine for Automotive Gears Based on Gear Integrated Error
Authors: Wang Xiaoyi , Shi Zhaoyao , Lin Jiachun , Liu Jiangsheng 
Published: January 2016

A new design of rapid inspection machine for automotive gears based on Gear Integrated Error (GIE) technology is introduced in this paper. The novel equipment can be used in production workshops to get analytical results such as profile deviations and pitch deviations of spur and helical cylindrical gears.
The distinguishing features of GIE are summarized by analyzing the principle of GIE method, the specific measuring master, and the curves of GIE measuring results. Then the design approach, system structure, procedure of inspection, key parameters, and specifications of the newly designed rapid inspection machine are introduced.
It is difficult and critical in the GIE technology to distinguish the involute meshing phase and to determine the exact coordinates of the starting and end points in a GIE curve. An innovative algorithm is also proposed to solve this problem.
The performance of the rapid inspection machine has been verified by experiments in two aspects, the accuracy and the efficiency. It can be seen that the accuracy of the rapid inspection machine for automotive gears is good enough to meet the design requirements and the efficiency is much higher than Gear Measuring Centers (GMCs).
A Scalpel Not a Sword: On the Role of Statistical Tests in Design Cognition
Authors: Fuge Mark 
Published: January 2016

The number of design studies using statistical testing has increased dramatically over the past decade. While this has benefits, statistical testing requires scrutiny to protect against common errors and misconceptions. To illuminate how these issues affect design, this paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the past decade of studies within the DTM community. Specifically, the paper 1) reviews the background of statistical testing across multiple fields, highlighting recommended practices, 2) discusses its use in the Design community, and 3) provides concrete methods for authors and reviewers to evaluate statistical tests employed in Design Cognition studies.
The analysis identifies recurring issues with: ignoring multiple comparisons; deficiencies in study and result reporting; inadequate defense of modeling assumptions; unavailable plots, data, and analysis files for replication; and lack of interpretation of statistical results with respect to practical outcomes or alternate forms of scientific inquiry. Based upon practices already adopted in other research communities, we put forth: 1) checklists that help authors and reviewers verify data reporting, analysis, and statistical assumptions; and 2) design guidelines for creating more reproducible design experiments. Ultimately, we argue that design researchers, reviewers, and editors should view statistical testing less like a sword and more like a scalpel — a specialized tool best used in concert with other techniques — to gain a more complete picture of Design Cognition.
Using Randomized Algorithms to Quantify Uncertainty in the Optimal Design of Cable-Driven Manipulators
Authors: Bryson Joshua T. , Agrawal Sunil K. 
Published: January 2016

Cable-driven robots are often considered an attractive solution for applications which require a low-inertia actuator capable of high accelerations, despite the added complexity of the system and increased challenges of the design. Previous research has developed various techniques for analyzing the workspace of a cable-driven robot and several methods of designing a cable routing have been demonstrated which enable a robot to perform a given task. In general, there are many choices of cable routing which satisfy the particular design requirements, and the problem is focused on how to select the best design from among the available choices.
Using techniques developed from statistical learning theory, the field of Randomized Algorithms offers explicit bounds on the estimation errors of an optimal solution, provided certain explicitly defined sample complexity requirements are satisfied. The main advantage of this approach is a quantitative understanding of the uncertainty of the result and the accuracy with respect to the true optimum to enable an informed decision regarding the sufficiency of the solution. The desired accuracy and confidence parameters for the optimal solution are tailored for the specific problem, allowing for balance between computational limitations and desire for solution quality. In this work, a summary of the randomized algorithm approach is presented, and an optimized solution to the design of a cable-driven manipulator is developed using a randomized algorithm according to specified accuracy, level and confidence parameters.
Efficient Transient Analysis of the High-Speed Stage of a Wind Turbine Gearbox by Advanced Model Reduction Techniques and Memory-Effective Discretization
Authors: Tamarozzi Tommaso , Blockmans Bart , Desmet Wim 
Published: January 2016

Modern wind turbines are designed to cope with their increased size and capacity. One of the most expensive components of these machines is the gearbox. Its design is more complex than a mere upscaling exercise from predecessors. The stress levels experienced by the different gear stages, the dynamic effects induced by their size and the unparalleled loads transmitted are some of the challenges that design engineers face. Moreover, unexpected events that load the wind turbines such as voltage dips, wind gusts or emergency breaking are expected to be major contributors to the premature failure of these gearboxes. The lack of engineering experience at this scale calls for accurate and efficient simulation tools thereby enabling reliable gearbox design.
Standard lumped-parameters models or rigid multibody approaches do not provide a sufficient level of details to study the dynamic effects induced by e.g. gear design modifications (micro-geometry) or to analyze local stress concentrations.
More advanced numerical tools are available such as flexible multibody or non-linear FE and allow to model complex contact interactions including all the relevant dynamic effects. Unfortunately the level of mesh refinement needed for an accurate analysis causes these simulations to be computationally expensive with time scales of several weeks to perform a single full rotation of a gear pair.
This work introduces a novel efficient simulation tool for dynamic analysis of transmissions. This tool adopts a flexible multibody paradigm but incorporates several advanced features that allows to run simulations up to two orders of magnitudes faster as compared to non-linear FE with the same level of accuracy. A unique non-linear parametric model order reduction technique is used to develop a simulation strategy that is quasi mesh-independent allowing the usage of very fine FE meshes.
Finally, in order to limit the memory consumption, a technique is developed to be able to finely mesh only a few of the gears teeth while the remaining gears are coarsely meshed. The main novelty of this approach lies in the possibility to perform full gear rotations without losing spatial resolution as compared to a finely meshed gear.
After an accuracy check performed with a sample pair of helical gears, the framework is used to simulate the high speed stage of a three-stage wind turbine gearbox. The combined efficiency and accuracy of the approach is demonstrated by performing a dynamic stress analysis of the high-speed stage with and without a tip-relief modification. Accuracy of the results, simulation time, and memory usage are assessed.