bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Application of principal component analysis on human development indicators: temporal approach from 1999 to 2010
Authors: Lai Dejian , Sun Wensheng , Pan Wenrong , Linder Stephen H. 
Published: September 2013

AbstractIn this study, we performed a weighted principal component analysis on human development indicators to measure and analyze the progress of well-being throughout the world from 1999 to 2010. The main principal component (MPC) was employed to quantify the temporal changes of the human development of several selected countries by the proposedZ-test. The trends of the human development in some countries with high human development, Sub-Saharan African countries, Brazil, Russia, India, China (BRIC), the USA, and Qatar were discussed in terms of the impact of public health and economic development. We also studied the association of the MPC obtained from our study and the human development index reported by the United Nations Development Program using the Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient.
Surface modification of nano-alumina and its application in preparing polyacrylate water-based wood coating
Authors: Long Ling , Xu Jianfeng , Wan Xianglong , Qian Lei 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
In order to solve weakness, undesirable abrasion resistance, and hardness of a water-based wood coating film, modified surface nano-alumina was made in the water-based wood coating. The effect of surfactant type and amount on the performance of nano-alumina slurry was investigated. How the performance of the polyacrylate wood coating was affected by the size, amount, and mixing method of nano slurry was studied, as well as the characterization of nano-alumina slurry and modified polyacrylate wood coating. The results showed that, by compounding the non-ionic surfactant polyoxyethylene octylphenol ether (OPEO) and anionic surfactant sodium polyacrylate of surface modification of nano-alumina, the nano-alumina slurry had excellent performance and good stability when the amount of nano-alumina was 0.6 wt% and 3.2 wt%, respectively. When 1.5 wt% of nano slurry was mixed with the water-based polyacrylate emulsion to a hybrid during the pre-emulsification phase, the wood coating film had high performance, and good abrasion resistance and hardness.
Shrinkage and Creep of Steel Fiber Reinforced Normal Strength Concrete
Authors: Saje Drago , Bandelj Branko , Šušteršič Jakob , Lopatič Jože , Saje Franc 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
This paper deals with the results of laboratory research into the time-related development of shrinkage and creep in normal strength concrete that has been steel fiber reinforced with volumetric contents of up to 2.0 % of shorter (l = 16 mm) or longer (l = 30 mm) steel fibers. The experimental research refers to the respective effects of the length and volumetric content of such fibers, as well as to the effect of early water curing conditions on the shrinkage and creep of the composite concerned. The results of the measurement of the autogenous, drying, and total shrinkage and the creep of the tested composites, as well as those corresponding to comparable concrete without fibers, are presented in the paper. The results of the experimental research show that the total shrinkage of such composites is, in general, about 15 % less than that of the comparable plain concrete without fibers. The autogenous shrinkage of the composites was nearly the same, but the drying shrinkage was considerably less than in the case of the comparable plain concrete. However, the creep of these composites differed only minimally from that of the comparable plain concrete.
Nano-Mechanical Characterization of Mastic, Aggregate, and Interfacial Zone in Asphalt Composites
Authors: Khorasani S. , Masad E. , Kassem E. , Abu Al-Rub R. K. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
This study used a nanoindentation technique to explore the local nanoscale mechanical properties of material phases and interfaces in an asphalt concrete composite. Regions of aggregate and mastic and their interfaces were nanoindented, and the load-displacement curves were analyzed to calculate the elastic modulus and hardness of the three phases. The interface region was found to have hardness and modulus values between those of the aggregate and the mastic. This study contributes significantly to the nanoscale characterization of asphalt concrete composites, as it provides unique measurements of mechanical properties of phases and especially the interface at a very small scale.
In Situ Observation and Model Test on Zonal Disintegration in Deep Tunnels
Authors: Chen Xu-Guang , Zhang Qiang-Yong , Wang Yuan , Li Shu-Cai , Wang Han-Peng 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
The mechanical behavior of deep rock masses differs from that of shallow rock masses. Deep rock masses are classified into alternating fractured and intact zones. This unique geological phenomenon is known as zonal disintegration. It is difficult to explain the formation mechanism of such phenomenon under the framework of traditional rock mechanics. The fractured shape and forming conditions of this occurrence also remain unclear. In our present study, we conducted an exploration in deep tunnels of the Dingji coal mine in China to investigate the forming mechanism of zonal disintegration. This phenomenon was observed using a borescope TV. A geomechanical model test was then constructed based on the results of the exploration. An analogical material referred to as barites–iron–sand cementation analogical and optical scale multi-point displacement meters were developed independently for the model test. The model test was then used to validate zonal disintegration and monitor the formation process. The strain and displacement laws of the surrounding rocks during zonal disintegration were obtained and found to be non-monotonic. The fractured shape of zonal disintegration was determined, and the radii of the fractured zones were found to fulfill the relationship of geometric progression. The experimental results were in accordance with the in situ exploration findings. The mechanism of the zonal disintegration was revealed by theoretical analysis based on fracture mechanics. The fractured zones are reportedly circular and concentric to the cavern. Each fracture zone ruptured at the elastic–plastic boundary of the surrounding rocks and then coalesced into the circular form. The geometric progression ratio was found to be related to the mechanical parameters and the ground stress of the surrounding rocks.
Evaluating Smart Living Technology Strategies Using the Analytic Network Process
Authors: Shieh Lon-Fon , Yeh Ching-Chiang , Lai Ming-Cheng 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
Smart living technology (SLT) is one of the most crucial information and communication technology application concerns for government and businesses. Many governments have initiated projects to promote SLT, but the evaluation models for these technologies are deficient and lack proper evaluation guidelines. This paper proposes an analytic network process for evaluating and selecting SLT strategies. It objectively identifies the related policy criteria and prioritizes the alternatives critical to the success of SLT promotion. To demonstrate the validity of this method, Taiwan’s Intelligent Taiwan program is used as an illustrative case. The methodology and experience presented in this study could serve as a reference for policymakers making SLT-related decisions.
Inhomogeneous Micro-Structure Influence on Macro-Crack of Sandstone
Authors: Tan Yunliang , Yin Yanchun , Huang Dongmei 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
SEM scanning and fractal dimension estimation were adopted to study the inhomogeneous microstructure features and its influences on the failure pattern of sandstone. The results show that different sandstones are of different self-similarities of microstructure. The average homogeneities of lithic arenite, greywacke, and subfeldspathic arenite are 5.61, 3.39, and 4.57 and estimated fractal dimensions of microstructure are 1.94, 1.52, and 1.84, respectively, indicating that the homogeneity of microstructure is well consistent with fractal dimension. The resulted macro-cracks of lithic arenite, greywacke, and subfeldspathic arenite are vertical cleavages, unordered discontinuous macro-cracks, and inclined macro-crack, respectively. The brittleness of lithic arenite, greywacke, and subfeldspathic arenite are 2.46, 3.54, and 2.61, respectively. The sandstone of brittleness tends to be easily ruptured in an abrupt manner, accompanying a sudden release of large elastic energy.
THERAPY OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Perspectives on the management of adrenal insufficiency: clinical insights from across Europe
Authors: Grossman Ashley , Johannsson Gudmundur , Quinkler Marcus , Zelissen Pierre 
Published: September 2013

BackgroundConventional glucocorticoid (GC) replacement for patients with adrenal insufficiency (AI) is inadequate. Patients with AI continue to have increased mortality and morbidity and compromised quality of life despite treatment and monitoring.Objectivesi) To review current management of AI and the unmet medical need based on literature and treatment experience and ii) to offer practical advice for managing AI in specific clinical situations.MethodsThe review considers the most urgent questions endocrinologists face in managing AI and presents generalised patient cases with suggested strategies for treatment.ResultsOptimisation and individualisation of GC replacement remain a challenge because available therapies do not mimic physiological cortisol patterns. While increased mortality and morbidity appear related to inadequate GC replacement, there are no objective measures to guide dose selection and optimisation. Physicians must rely on experience to recognise the clinical signs, which are not unique to AI, of inadequate treatment. The increased demand for corticosteroids during periods of stress can result in a life-threatening adrenal crisis (AC) in a patient with AI. Education is paramount for patients and their caregivers to anticipate, recognise and provide proper early treatment to prevent or reduce the occurrence of ACs.ConclusionsThis review highlights and offers suggestions to address the challenges endocrinologists encounter in treating patients with AI. New preparations are being developed to better mimic normal physiological cortisol levels with convenient, once-daily dosing which may improve treatment outcomes.
Multiplicative Models for Specific Combining Ability in Half‐diallels with Parents
Authors: Piepho Hans‐Peter 
Published: September 2013

ABSTRACTThis paper considers multiplicative models for the analysis of half‐diallels with parents (self‐crosses) and graphical displays based on such models, including biplots. It is shown that models respecting the symmetry of the diallel two‐way classification are inherently restrictive because multiplicative terms for specific combining ability (SCA) effects are forced to have the same sign for all self‐crosses. The models are illustrated using an example from wheat (Triticum aestivum L). Limitations of other multiplicative models for diallel analysis such as the AMMI and GGE models are also discussed. It is concluded that multiplicative models are useful for the analysis of diallels when the pattern of SCA effects can be well represented by just one or two multiplicative terms. When SCA effects have a more complex structure, however, it may be preferable to resort to classical diallel analysis.
Are children meeting any of the suggested daily step recommendations?
Authors: Brusseau Timothy A. , Tudor-Locke Catrine , Kulinna Pamela H. 
Published: September 2013

Summary
Study aim: Over the past decade there have been numerous efforts to identify how many steps/day children should accumulate. Recommendations range from 10,000 to 16,500 steps/day. The purpose of this article was to examine the percentage of elementary school aged children meeting nine different sets of steps/day recommendations.
Material and methods: 786 Southwestern US children (410 girls, BMI 19.3±4.2) wore the Yamax Digiwalker SW-200 pedometer and recorded their steps/day for 7 consecutive days. Mean steps/day was calculated and the percent-age of students meeting each of the various steps/day recommendations was determined.
Results: Children averaged 11,113±3,666 steps/day. Sixty-one percent of all children met a minimum of 10,000 steps/day. Thirty-six percent met the most widely used recommendation of 11,000 and 13,000 steps/day for boys and girls, respectively. Using BMI referenced recommendations, between 10-52% of children met various guidelines.
Conclusions: Southwestern US children in the current sample are not getting enough daily activity to meet the ma-jority of step recommendations. Findings suggest that less than 33% of children are active for 60 minutes of physical activity (inferred from one of the guidelines) a day and only 36% would qualify for the Presidential Active Life-styles Award. Additional school and home-based physical activity programming is clearly needed.
Proteolytic activation of Chlamydia trachomatis HTRA is mediated by PDZ1 domain interactions with protease domain loops L3 and LC and beta strand β5
Authors: Marsh James , Lott William , Tyndall Joel , Huston Wilhelmina 
Published: September 2013

AbstractChlamydia trachomatis is a bacterial pathogen responsible for one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections worldwide. Its unique development cycle has limited our understanding of its pathogenic mechanisms. However, CtHtrA has recently been identified as a potential C. trachomatis virulence factor. CtHtrA is a tightly regulated quality control protein with a monomeric structural unit comprised of a chymotrypsin-like protease domain and two PDZ domains. Activation of proteolytic activity relies on the C-terminus of the substrate allosterically binding to the PDZ1 domain, which triggers subsequent conformational change and oligomerization of the protein into 24-mers enabling proteolysis. This activation is mediated by a cascade of precise structural arrangements, but the specific CtHtrA residues and structural elements required to facilitate activation are unknown. Using in vitro analysis guided by homology modeling, we show that the mutation of residues Arg362 and Arg224, predicted to disrupt the interaction between the CtHtrA PDZ1 domain and loop L3, and between loop L3 and loop LD, respectively, are critical for the activation of proteolytic activity. We also demonstrate that mutation to residues Arg299 and Lys160, predicted to disrupt PDZ1 domain interactions with protease loop LC and strand β5, are also able to influence proteolysis, implying their involvement in the CtHtrA mechanism of activation. This is the first investigation of protease loop LC and strand β5 with respect to their potential interactions with the PDZ1 domain. Given their high level of conservation in bacterial HtrA, these structural elements may be equally significant in the activation mechanism of DegP and other HtrA family members.
Clay and charcoal composites: characterisation and application of factorial design analysis for dye adsorption
Authors: Chagas Neucineia , Quinaia Sueli , Anaissi Fauze , Santos Jeferson , Felsner Maria , Justi Karin 
Published: September 2013

AbstractThe characterisation of smectite clay, charcoal and prepared clay-charcoal composites was carried out through the X-ray diffractometry, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), simultaneous thermal analysis (TGA/DTA), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The analysis revealed the composites to have different characteristics from the precursor clay and charcoal, and a peak displacement (d 001) was observed through the X-ray diffraction; this suggests the incorporation of charcoal into the clay lamellas and the formation of a new phase. Tests of adsorption with methylene blue dye were also carried out to evaluate the percentage of dye removal by the adsorbent, in which the composites presented better results than charcoal, indicating great potential for industrial use. A 23 factorial design was employed to evaluate the influence of temperature, ionic strength and pH on the adsorption of methylene blue using the AV50 composite that presented the best adsorption efficiency.
Mineral constituents of edible parasol mushroom Macrolepiota procera (Scop. ex Fr.) Sing and soils beneath its fruiting bodies collected from a rural forest area
Authors: Kułdo Edyta , Jarzyńska Grażyna , Gucia Magdalena , Falandysz Jerzy 
Published: September 2013

AbstractConcentrations and interrelationships of twenty elements were studied in parasol mushroom and in the top layer of soil (0–10 cm) from the area of Kiwity (Poland). K, P, Mg, Ca, and Zn were found to be the most abundant elements in the mushroom. Higher concentrations of Fe, Mn, Na, Ni occurred in stipes then in caps, while Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Rb dominated in caps. Ag, Al, and Ba concentrations in caps and stipes were similar. Parasol mushroom is efficient in up-take and separation of Ag, Cd, Cu, Hg, K (in caps, the bioconcentration factor is BCF ≥ 100), Na, P, Rb (50 < BCF < 100), and Mg, Zn (BCF > 10) in its fruiting bodies, while Al, Ba, Ca, Co, Cr, Fe, Mn, Sr, and Pb are eliminated (BCF < 1). Parasol mushroom from rural forest area in the north-eastern region of Poland is of hygienic concern for human health because of toxic mercury and cadmium content in the edible caps, which are also rich in essential Cu, Fe, and their K, Mn, and Zn content is also high.
I2-mediated α-selective Ferrier glycosylation approach to synthesis of O-glycosyl amino acids
Authors: Ren Li , Liu Yang , Yu Gui-Hua , Hao Jing-Zheng , Cheng Mao-Sheng 
Published: September 2013

AbstractI2 is an effective promoter for the synthesis of 2,3-unsaturated glycosides via Ferrier glycosylation. This reaction was used in the present work for the synthesis of O-glycosylated Fmoc amino acid building blocks. This metal-free reaction afforded the desired products with good to excellent yields with good α-selectivity.
Spiral resonator manufactured on AlN ceramics to filter the coupled wave between patch antennas
Authors: Koziol P. , Gorski P. , Antonczak A. , Kabacik P. , Abramski K. 
Published: September 2013

AbstractThe objective of this paper was to present an alternative technique of manufacturing the unit cells of spiral-shaped resonators (SR) on the aluminium nitride (AlN) ceramics. In this technique the AlN plane surface is irradiated by the Yb:glass medium-power laser (1.06 µm). As a result of the irradiation by a focused laser beam (a laser beam power up to 20 W), the rupture of the aluminium and nitrogen physical bonds occurs. Under such circumstances the conductive aluminium “paths” are formed on the originally insulating ceramic surface. Upon obtaining low ohmic conductive paths, this method makes for the feasible manufacturing of metamaterial structures. In carried out studies, the usage of such structures to suppress the coupling between pairs of patch antennas has been examined. The improvement of the mutual coupling at the level of 10 dB has been obtained. One of the advantages of the demonstrated method is a possibility to perform the selective and direct metallization of the AlN ceramics surface without using any mask as opposed to photolithography. It greatly reduces the implementation time of the projected metamaterial structures.
Development and Validation of the Computer-Administered Animated Activity Questionnaire to Measure Physical Functioning of Patients With Hip or Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Terwee Caroline B. , Coopmans Charlotte , Peter Wilfred F. , Roorda Leo D. , Poolman Rudolf W. , Scholtes Vanessa A.B. , Harlaar Jaap , de Vet Henrica C.W. 
Published: September 2013

Background
Physical functioning of patients with hip or knee osteoarthritis is measured by self-report questionnaires and performance-based tests. However, performance-based tests often are not feasible.

Objective
The aim of this study was to develop a computer-administered questionnaire (ie, the Animated Activity Questionnaire [AAQ]) to measure physical functioning in patients with hip or knee OA. By showing animations of activities, the influence of the patient's own reference frame is minimized. The AAQ measures the same aspects of physical functioning as performance-based tests do.

Design
This was a development and preliminary validation (cross-sectional) study.

Methods
A pilot version of the AAQ was developed using motion capture to analyze the movement of a person performing 7 daily activities. Different animations of the same activity were made with 2 to 5 levels of difficulty. For each activity, participants were asked to choose one animation that best corresponds to their own way of performing the activity. A preliminary validation study was performed to compare the AAQ with validated self-report questionnaires (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and questionnaires on walking, stair climbing, and rising and sitting down) and performance-based tests (walking, Timed “Up & Go” Test, Timed Stair Test) in 33 patients with hip or knee osteoarthritis.

Results
As expected, the AAQ showed a correlation above .70 (.79, 95% confidence interval=.61–.89) with the total score of the performance-based tests. On the subscore level, the results were partly as expected. Fifty-eight percent of the participants preferred the AAQ over self-report questionnaires and performance-based tests.

Limitations
The findings need to be replicated in larger samples of patients because the sample size of the study was rather small.

Conclusion
The AAQ might be a good alternative for measuring physical functioning of patients with hip or knee osteoarthritis. The AAQ can easily be adapted for use in other patient populations. However, further development and validation are needed.
Adherence to Accelerometry Measurement of Community Ambulation Poststroke
Authors: Barak Sharon , Wu Samuel S. , Dai Yunfeng , Duncan Pamela W. , Behrman Andrea L. 
Published: September 2013

Background
The step activity monitor (SAM) quantifies steps taken in the home and community by patient populations. Although the SAM has been used to study individuals after stroke, adherence to the use of SAMs has not been addressed. Participants' adherence to wearing the monitor is critical for obtaining accurate assessments.

Objective
The purpose of this study was to determine the rate of and predictors for inferred adherence to the use of the SAM after stroke.

Design
A cross-sectional design was used.

Methods
Community-dwelling individuals (n=408) 2 months after stroke with moderate-to-severe gait impairment (gait speed of ≤0.8 m/s) were studied. Step activity was assessed for 2 days with the SAM. Inferred adherence was established in 3 periods: 6:00 am to 12:00 pm, 12:01 pm to 6:00 pm, and 6:01 pm to 12:00 am. Adherence was defined as activity recorded in all 3 periods. The percentage of participant adherence for the first day, second day, both days, and either day was calculated. Demographic and clinical characteristics of adherers and nonadherers were compared. Independent adherence predictors were identified by means of stepwise logistic regression.

Results
Inferred adherence rates for the first day, second day, both days, and either day were 68%, 61%, 53%, and 76%, respectively. Upper and lower extremity impairment, balance control, and endurance were significantly different between adherers and nonadherers. On the other hand, older age, greater balance self-efficacy, and better walking endurance were significant predictors of adherence.

Limitations
Participants were individuals with subacute stroke. Therefore, the findings of this study may not be generalized to individuals during the acute and chronic phases of stroke recovery.

Conclusions
Strategies to improve adherence are needed when collecting data for more than 1 day and in samples with younger individuals and those with low levels of balance self-efficacy and walking endurance.