bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Analysis on Crops Choice and Its Driving Factors in Agricultural Heritage Systems—A Case of Honghe Hani Rice Terraces System
Authors: Yang Lun , Liu Moucheng , Lun Fei , Yuan Zheng , Zhang Yongxun , Min Qingwen
Published: July 2017

The Honghe Hani Rice Terraces System (HHRTS) is one of the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) sites approved by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 2010. In recent years, with the development of modern agriculture and tourism, cultivation practices for high yield and uniform variety cropping, has threatened the stability of the system of forest-village-paddy-rivers in the Hani terraces. From the viewpoint of farming behavior, we carried out our surveys to learn about the local rural households’ planting situations and the factors that influence their planting choices. A Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) was used for gaining information in Yuanyang County, Yunnan Province. Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) were used to test the theoretical result at the individual rural household level. Then, this paper summarized the status quo of crop cultivation structures and analyzed their driving factors in HHRTS. The results showed as follows: ① In the 41.23 hm2 available farmland referred in survey, the crops grown, ordered by total cultivated area, are hybrid rice, corn, and fruit, which rank as the top three for all crops. As the regional traditional crop, the cultivated area of red rice is only 12.04% of total available farmland referred to in the survey. ② According to the actual plantation, the rural household is divided into two categories and marked as “the red-rice-plantation-oriented household (RR household)” and “the hybrid-rice-plantation-oriented household (HR household)”. The result of the SUR model showed that the driving factors to plant hybrid rice and red rice varied greatly with different categories of the rural household. ③ Consistent with the results of correlation analyses and factor analyses, significant driving factors of red rice planting included the ethnicity of the household, the average altitude of the farmland, and the labor productivity of red rice. Significant restraint factors included the total number of family members and the yield of red rice per unit area. Thereupon, in order to realize the dynamic protection of HHRTS, we established an encouragement mechanism for improving the proportion of red rice plantings in relation to aspects of the rural household, the community, and the local government.
Fuel Consumption Estimation System and Method with Lower Cost
Authors: Lo Chi-Lun , Chen Chi-Hua , Kuan Ta-Sheng , Lo Kuen-Rong , Cho Hsun-Jung
Published: July 2017

This study proposes a fuel consumption estimation system and method with lower cost. On-board units can report vehicle speed, and user devices can send fuel information to a data analysis server. Then the data analysis server can use the proposed fuel consumption estimation method to estimate the fuel consumption based on driver behaviours without fuel sensors for cost savings. The proposed fuel consumption estimation method is designed based on a genetic algorithm which can generate gene sequences and use crossover and mutation for retrieving an adaptable gene sequence. The adaptable gene sequence can be applied as the set of fuel consumption in accordance with the pattern of driver behaviour. The practical experimental results indicated that the accuracy of the proposed fuel consumption estimation method was about 95.87%.
Probing the Characterization of the Interaction of Aflatoxins B1 and G1 with Calf Thymus DNA In Vitro
Authors: Ma Liang , Wang Jiaman , Zhang Yuhao
Published: July 2017

The binding characterization of aflatoxins with calf thymus DNA (ctDNA) under physiological conditions was investigated. Multispectroscopic techniques, ctDNA melting, viscosity measurements, and molecular docking techniques were employed to elucidate the binding mechanism of the aflatoxins with DNA. The fluorescence results indicated that both aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and aflatoxin G1 (AFG1) bound to the ctDNA, forming complexes through hydrogen bonding. The binding constants of AFB1 and AFG1 with ctDNA reached up to 103 L·mol−1 and 104 L·mol−1, respectively, and AFG1 exhibited a higher binding propensity than that of AFB1. Furthermore, both AFB1 and AFG1 bound to the ctDNA through groove binding, as evidenced by the results of the spectroscopic, iodide quenching effect, viscosity, and ctDNA melting measurements. Changes in the circular dichroism signal manifested that both AFB1 and AFG1 induced an increase in the right-handed helicity, but only minimally influenced the base stacking of the DNA. A molecular docking study of the aflatoxin’s binding with the DNA revealed a groove binding mode, which was driven mainly by hydrogen bonding. This study of aflatoxin–ctDNA interaction may provide novel insights into the toxicological effect of the mycotoxins.
The Central Conserved Region (CCR) of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) G Protein Modulates Host miRNA Expression and Alters the Cellular Response to Infection
Authors: Bakre Abhijeet , Harcourt Jennifer , Haynes Lia , Anderson Larry , Tripp Ralph
Published: July 2017

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infects respiratory epithelial cells and deregulates host gene expression by many mechanisms including expression of RSV G protein (RSV G). RSV G protein encodes a central conserved region (CCR) containing a CX3C motif that functions as a fractalkine mimic. Disruption of the CX3C motif (a.a. 182–186) located in the CCR of the G protein has been shown to affect G protein function in vitro and the severity of RSV disease pathogenesis in vivo. We show that infection of polarized Calu3 respiratory cells with recombinant RSV having point mutations in Cys173 and 176 (C173/176S) (rA2-GC12), or Cys186 (C186S) (rA2-GC4) is associated with a decline in the integrity of polarized Calu-3 cultures and decreased virus production. This is accompanied with downregulation of miRNAs let-7f and miR-24 and upregulation of interferon lambda (IFNλ), a primary antiviral cytokine for RSV in rA2-GC12/rA2-GC4 infected cells. These results suggest that residues in the cysteine noose region of RSV G protein can modulate IFN λ expression accompanied by downregulation of miRNAs, and are important for RSV G protein function and targeting.
Halosteric Sea Level Changes during the Argo Era
Authors: Wang Gongjie , Cheng Lijing , Boyer Timothy , Li Chongyin
Published: July 2017

In addition to the sea level (SL) change, or anomaly (SLA), due to ocean thermal expansion, total steric SLA (SSLA, all change to the existing volume of ocean water) is also affected by ocean salinity variation. Less attention, however, has been paid to this halosteric effect, due to the global dominance of thermosteric SLA (TSLA) and the scarcity of salinity measurements. Here, we analyze halosteric SLA (HSLA) since 2005, when Argo data reached near-global ocean coverage, based on several observational products. We find that, on global average, the halosteric component contributes negatively by ~5.8% to SSLA during the 2005–2015 period, and reveals a modest correlation (~0.38) with ENSO on the inter-annual scale. Vertically, the global ocean was saltier in the upper 200-m and fresher within 200 to 600-m since 2005, while the change below 600-m was not significantly different from zero. The upper 200-m changes dominate the HSLA, suggesting the importance of surface fresh water flux forcing; meanwhile, the ocean dynamic might also play a role. The inconsistent pattern of salinity trend between upper 200-m and 200 to 600-m implies the importance of ocean dynamics. Our analysis suggests that local salinity changes cannot be neglected, and can even play a more important role in SSLA than the thermosteric component in some regions, such as the Tropical/North Pacific Ocean, the Southern Ocean, and the North Atlantic Ocean. This study highlights the need to better reconstruct historical salinity datasets, to better monitor the past SSLA changes. Also, it is important to understand the mechanisms (ocean dynamics vs. surface flux) related to regional ocean salinity changes.
MANAGERS’ ACTIVITIES WITHIN CULTURAL AND CREATIVE CLUSTERS: AN ESSENTIAL ELEMENT FOR CLUSTER DEVELOPMENT IN THE VISEGRÁD COUNTRIES / VADYBINĖ VEIKLA KULTŪRINIUOSE IR KŪRYBINIUOSE KLASTERIUOSE: PAGRINDINIS KLASTERIŲ PLĖTROS VEIKSNYS VIŠEGRADO ŠALYSE
Authors: DANKO Lukáš , BEDNÁŘ Pavel , MATOŠKOVÁ Jana
Published: July 2017

Despite the fact that extensive research devoted to cultural and creative industries spatial clustering has been conducted, studies dealing with institutionalised clusters as official entities are rare. Thus creative clusters organisations are weakly theorized compared to industrial clusters due to their project-oriented (non-standardized) production. Consequently, the aim of the paper is to gain insight in benefits of institutionalised cultural and creative clusters and determinants as well as barriers of their development based on cluster managers’ activities in the Visegrád countries. To achieve the stated aim semi-structured interviews with cluster managers were conducted for data collection. Subsequently grounded theory approach and network maps were employed to draw results. Hence, the key benefits for cluster members are reflected in utilizing access to cluster internationalisation activities, knowledge sharing within local creative milieu, and collaborative projects to increase their competitiveness as well as commercialisation of their products. Furthermore, knowledge of cooperation, level of openness, approach to life-long learning, amount of time for cluster activities, previous experience, communication skills, and involvement in mutual cooperation were identified as predominant determinants of cultural and creative cluster development.
OGLE-2016-BLG-1469L: Microlensing Binary Composed of Brown Dwarfs
Authors: Han C. , Udalski A. , Sumi T. , Gould A. , Albrow M. D. , Chung S.-J. , Jung Y. K. , Ryu Y.-H. , Shin I.-G. , Yee J. C. , Zhu W. , Cha S.-M. , Kim S.-L. , Kim D.-J. , Lee C.-U. , Lee Y. , Park B.-G. ,   (The KMTNet Collaboration), Soszyński I. , Mróz P. , Pietrukowicz P. , Szymański M. K. , Skowron J. , Poleski R. , Kozłowski S. , Ulaczyk K. , Pawlak M. ,   (The OGLE Collaboration), Abe F. , Asakura Y. , Bennett D. P. , Bond I. A. , Bhattacharya A. , Donachie M. , Freeman M. , Fukui A. , Hirao Y. , Itow Y. , Koshimoto N. , Li M. C. A. , Ling C. H. , Masuda K. , Matsubara Y. , Muraki Y. , Nagakane M. , Ohnishi K. , Oyokawa H. , Rattenbury N. J. , Saito To. , Sharan A. , Sullivan D. J. , Suzuki D. , Tristram P. J. , Yamada T. , Yamada T. , Yonehara A. , Barry R. ,   (The MOA Collaboration)
Published: July 2017

We report the discovery of a binary composed of two brown dwarfs, based on the analysis of the microlensing event OGLE-2016-BLG-1469. Thanks to the detection of both finite-source and microlens-parallax effects, we are able to measure both the masses

 and 

, and the distance

, as well as the projected separation

au. This is the third brown-dwarf binary detected using the microlensing method, demonstrating the usefulness of microlensing in detecting field brown-dwarf binaries with separations of less than 1 au.
Spatiotemporal Evolution of Hanle and Zeeman Synthetic Polarization in a Chromospheric Spectral Line
Authors: Carlin E. S. , Bianda M.
Published: July 2017

Due to the quick evolution of the solar chromosphere, its magnetic field cannot be inferred reliably without accounting for the temporal variations of its polarized light. This has been broadly overlooked in the modeling and interpretation of the polarization, due to technical problems (e.g., lack of temporal resolution or of time-dependent MHD solar models) and/or because many polarization measurements can apparently be explained without dynamics. Here, we show that the temporal evolution is critical for explaining the spectral-line scattering polarization because of its sensitivity to rapidly varying physical quantities and the possibility of signal cancellations and attenuation during extended time integration. For studying the combined effect of time-varying magnetic fields and kinematics, we solved the 1.5D non-LTE problem of the second kind in time-dependent 3D R-MHD solar models and synthesized the Hanle and Zeeman polarization in forward scattering for the chromospheric λ4227 line. We find that the quiet-Sun polarization amplitudes depend on the periodicity and spectral coherence of the signal enhancements produced by kinematics, but that substantially larger linear polarization signals should exist all over the solar disk for short integration times. The spectral morphology of the polarization is discussed as a combination of Hanle, Zeeman, partial redistribution and dynamic effects. We give physical references for observations by degrading and characterizing our slit time series in different spatiotemporal resolutions. The implications of our results for the interpretation of the second solar spectrum and for the investigation of the solar atmospheric heatings are discussed.
A Grid of Synthetic Spectra for Hot DA White Dwarfs and Its Application in Stellar Population Synthesis
Authors: Levenhagen Ronaldo S. , Diaz Marcos P. , Coelho Paula R. T. , Hubeny Ivan
Published: July 2017

In this work we present a grid of LTE and non-LTE synthetic spectra of hot DA white dwarfs (WDs). In addition to its usefulness for the determination of fundamental stellar parameters of isolated WDs and in binaries, this grid will be of interest for the construction of theoretical libraries for stellar studies from integrated light. The spectral grid covers both a wide temperature and gravity range, with 17,000 K ≤ T
eff ≤ 100,000 K and 7.0 ≤

 ≤ 9.5. The stellar models are built for pure hydrogen and the spectra cover a wavelength range from 900 Å to 2.5 μm. Additionally, we derive synthetic HST/ACS, HST/WFC3, Bessel UBVRI, and SDSS magnitudes. The grid was also used to model integrated spectral energy distributions of simple stellar populations and our modeling suggests that DAs might be detectable in ultraviolet bands for populations older than ∼8 Gyr.
Effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG on the maturation and differentiation of dendritic cells in rotavirus-infected mice
Authors: Jiang Y. , Ye L. , Cui Y. , Yang G. , Yang W. , Wang J. , Hu J. , Gu W. , Shi C. , Huang H. , Wang C.
Published: July 2017

Rotavirus-related diarrhoea is considered one of the most important diseases in field animal production. In addition to the classic vaccine strategy, a number of studies have utilised probiotics, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), to prevent rotavirus-induced diarrhoea. Although it has been partially revealed that Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are involved in the LGG-mediated protection against rotavirus infection, the details of the underlying immunologic mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, three-to-four-week-old female BALB/c mice were divided into three groups and orally administered phosphate buffered saline (PBS), PBS plus rotavirus or LGG plus rotavirus, respectively. The differentiation and maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) were then determined by FACS, the expression levels of TLR-3 and nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB) were evaluated using real time PCR, and the production of inflammatory cytokines in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) were determined by ELISA. The results demonstrated that rotavirus infection significantly increased the percentage of CD11c+CD11b+CD8a- DCs and decreased the percentage of CD11c+CD11b-CD8a+ DCs in MLNs. By contrast, the presence of LGG significantly decreased the percentage of CD11c+CD11b+CD8a- DCs and increased the percentage of CD11c+CD11b-CD8a+ DCs, which indicates that the differentiation of DCs is involved in the protective effects of LGG. Rotavirus infection also resulted in the increased expression of surface markers such as CD40, CD80 and MHC-II in DCs, and the administration of LGG significantly increased the expression level further. The mRNA levels of TLR-3 and NF-κB in the intestine and MLNs were also significantly increased in the presence of rotavirus, which was further increased in the presence of LGG. The production of inflammatory cytokines was also determined, and the results showed that rotavirus caused the increased production of interleukin (IL)-12 and tumour necrosis factor alpha; this effect was further enhanced by LGG. Meanwhile, although rotavirus infection led to the increased production of IL-6 and IL-10, the presence of LGG significantly decreased the mRNA levels of these cytokines. By contrast, rotavirus infection resulted in the decreased production of interferon gamma (IFN-γ), and the administration of LGG significantly increased the levels of IFN-γ. Taken together, the protective effects of LGG were partially due to the modulation of the differentiation and maturation of DCs, the increased production of TLR-3 and NF-κB, and the modulation of inflammatory cytokines.
Réforme territoriale et repositionnement des métropoles en Pologne
Authors: Coudroy de Lille Lydia
Published: July 2017

Pointing out that Poland is the first central – or eastern-European country to have adopted the institutional and territorial framework of a decentralised state, the author seeks to show how the stakes involved in the realization of this reform brought to light lines of force or weakness in the Polish territorial organization. She does so by studying the criteria for delimiting regions, the location of political resistance to reform, and electoral results. These fault lines highlight a Poland in turmoil, characterized by competing identities clamouring for existence, those giving expression to local rivalries and those giving voice to more intense regional – and, so, urban – fragmentation. Lydia Coudroy de Lille shows to what extent the urban world has invigorated the democratic debate and may lead to a turn-around in the organisation of Polish territory.
La gestion des frontières dans le projet d’élargissement oriental de l’Union européenne
Authors: Lepesant Gilles
Published: July 2017

This article tries to answer the following question : how can “legitimate” oriental borders be drawn, while respecting and recognising the degrees of differences compatible with belonging to the new European Union community ? The study of Max Weber’s criteria fails to bring an answer, insofar as this question refers above all to the realm of political decision.Dealing with the relations with neighbours in this limit zone is another aspect. Given the complex imbrications of minorities and old linguistic, religious and identity issues, the geo-economic constraint becomes more important and could lead to a hard and fist division between the different countries according to the rhythm and the sense of their reforms.In the complex case of Poland, with its continuously changing borders, the borderland logic is read as a systemic logic taking the dynamics of the European Union as its source.
La mirada cosmologicista sobre el género de las mujeres indígenas en la antropología del Chaco argentino: una crítica
Authors: Gómez. Mariana D.
Published: July 2017

El artículo realiza una aproximación crítica a lo que denomino mirada cosmologicista sobre el género de las mujeres indígenas del Chaco, la cual ha sido construida a partir de dimensiones etnográficas constantes (el ritual de iniciación, los mitos, la división sexual del trabajo) que autores reconocidos de la región utilizaron para analizar la estructura simbólica de género y el lugar de las mujeres en los grupos tobas (qom) y wichís. Luego me concentro en señalar dos aspectos problemáticos que gravitan alrededor de esta mirada: 1) una condición de género estática; 2) omisiones sobre la desigualdad de género. Finalmente, muestro un abordaje y análisis alternativo basándome en mi etnografía con mujeres tobas (qom).
Les services collectifs de transport intra-urbain à Bouaké : des offres de mobilité à hauts risques pour les populations
Authors: Attien Kouakou , Konan Jean-Michel
Published: July 2017

Bouaké, deuxième ville de la Côte d’Ivoire après Abidjan, connaît une dynamique urbaine importante. Dans cette urbanisation galopante, l’absence d’un service de transports collectifs réguliers de type autobus, a favorisé la naissance de trois modes de transport à caractère collectif. Les minibus communément appelés gbakas et les taxis communaux ont vu le jour à l’indépendance avant que n’apparaissent en 2002 les motos-taxis pendant la crise militaro-politique. Mais la qualité du service, l’état des véhicules et le non-respect des règles élémentaires de sécurité routière constituent des dangers permanents dans leur utilisation pour les populations qui se retrouvent parfois sans autre alternative.
Computational of Orthogonal Metal Cutting Process Using Smooth Particle Hydrodynamics
Authors: Muthusamy S. , Arulmurugu A
Published: July 2017

In modern years, simulating metal cutting process used in Finite element method (FEM). The cutting force is used to identify the excessive friction of machining interface and worn out tool. Optimization of machining parameters are used to maintain the precision of the component, power consumption minimized and tool wear reduced. The current project presents the simulated Finite Element SPH Model used for predict the cutting force and associate with experimental confirmation while turning the AA2219-TiB2/ZrB2 metal matrix composites (MMC). Smooth Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) machining simulation was carried out using a Lagrangian finite element based machining model to predict the cutting force. The turning simulation operation carried out using ANSYS AUTODYN (SPH) software. Machining parameters are cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut. The results predicted from the SPH analysis virtually close to the results attained from the experimental work. Simulation of machining test using SPH model is preferred over actual cutting test because of it reduce cost and time.
Wear Analysis of LM 25 (A356) Alloy Manufactured by Squeeze Casting
Authors: Nagendran N. , Shanmuganathan V.K. , Gayathri N. , Dinesh Ram G.
Published: July 2017

Historically, the series of LM were developed for high strength, corrosion resistance, and good machinability for many applications. LM 25 Al-7Si-0.3Mg-0.5Fe alloy cylindrical shaped castings were manufactured successfully by Squeeze Casting process at high temperature and high pressure. The casting products were made by addition of nanoparticles and without nanoparticles. Heat treatment process was conducted at 490○C and metals was quenched at 30○C (water).Specimens were prepared with and without squeeze and stirrer. Wear test was carried out by, variation in load, and microstructure also studied. The results were compared before and after the heat treatment process for addition of nanoparticle and without nanoparticle. SEM analysis was made on worn surface of the wear specimens for different conditions to study the influence of different casting on the wear behaviour mechanism of the cast alloys. Surface roughness was evaluated before and after the wear analysis for various conditions.
Performance Enhancement of Solar Parabolic Trough Collector Using Intensified Ray Convergence System
Authors: Sukanta Anbu Manimaran , Sakthivel M. Niranjan , Manoranjith Gopalsamy , Naveen Kumar Loganathan
Published: July 2017

Solar Energy is one of the forms of Renewable Energy that is available abundantly. This work is executed on the enhancement of the performance of solar parabolic trough collector using Intensified Ray Convergence System (IRCS). This paper distinguishes between the performance of solar parabolic trough collector with continuous dual axis tracking and a fixed solar parabolic trough collector (PTC) facing south (single axis tracking). The simulation and performance of the solar radiations are visualized and analyzed using TRACEPRO 6.0.2 software. The improvement in absorption of solar flux was found to be enhanced by 39.06% in PTC using dual axis tracking, absorption of solar flux increases by 52% to 200% in PTC receiver using perfect mirror than PTC using black chrome coating.
An Experimental Investigation of the Properties of Self Curing Concrete Using Foundry Sand
Authors: Ragunath S. , Gokulan R. , Letcham K.
Published: July 2017

The aim of this investigation is to study the use of the water soluble polyethylene glycol as self-curing agent. The function of self-curing agents is to reduce the water evaporation from concrete and hence they increase the water retention capacity of concrete compared to the conventionally cured concrete.The use of self-curing admixtures is very important from the point of view that saving of water is a necessity everyday (each one cubic meter of concrete requires 3m3 of water for a construction, most of which is used for curing). In this study, compressive strength and split tensile strength of concrete containing self-curing agent is investigated and compared with that of conventionally cured concrete.It is experimentally found by the authors that the concrete cast with polyethylene glycol as self-curing agent is stronger than that obtained by sprinkler curing as well as by immersion curing. In this project, foundry sand is replaced as a fine aggregate. It is also tested with conventional concrete and self curing concrete with 5% and 10% replacement of foundary sand which has been tested for compressive strength and split tensile strength for 7days and 28 days of curing and their results are compared. The compressive strength by 13.62%, 18.83% and 22.43%when compared to the Con mix at the age of 7 days and also 5.40%, 8.90% and 14.16% at the age of 28 days. Mixtures WSPG and WSPG with FS enhanced their tensile strength by 14.50%, 16.36% and 20.82% when compared to the Con mix at the age of 7 days and also 4.30%,8.15% and 12.90% at the age of 28 days.
Preparation of Titanium Metal Matrix Composites Using Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Vály Lilla , Grech David , Neubauer Erich , Kitzmantel Michael , Bača Ľuboš , Stelzer Nils
Published: July 2017

In this work, the “4M-System” (Machine for Multi-Material-Manufacturing) has been developed by RHP Technology for the manufacturing of Titanium Metal Matrix Composites. This equipment allows the Additive Layer Manufacturing (ALM) of large structures and uses a Plasma Transferred Arc (PTA) as a heat source for depositing feedstocks (powder/wire) layer by layer onto a substrate. Test coupons, made of Titanium powders and having different concentrations of B4C particles, were deposited to form Metal Matrix Composites. Various processing parameters such as deposition rate, travel speed of the torch as well as plasma parameters (power/current/gas flow) were assessed for getting pore- and crack-free samples. After deposition, the specimens were cut and the cross-sections were analysed by optical- and scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, the hardness, Young’s Modulus, and tensile strength were measured. Ti-Metal Matrix Composite materials resulted in higher strength and Young´s Modulus in comparison to the pure Ti-metal matrix. Using the 4M-System, B4C particle reinforced Ti-MMC’s were successfully manufactured. Thus the 4M-System proved the capability of joining multi-material concepts, which also promises to create graded concentrations of reinforcement in the material.
Influence of Laser Surface Treatment for Process-Integrated Joining of Textile Reinforced Thermoplastic Composites to Metal Sheets
Authors: Koshukow Wikentij , Krahl Michael , Gude Maik , Götz Peter , Kirchhoff Marc
Published: July 2017

Laser-structured metal surfaces in combination with thermoplastic compression mould processes allow intrinsic hybrid structures with high-strength connections. Suitable process parameters are still to be identified to provide optimised assembly parameters. Therefore, laser structures with different configurations are applied to steel sheets and compressed with textile reinforced thermoplastic composites to manufacture hybrid structures. Laser processing parameters, such as pulse duration or energy as well as laser scanning strategies and therefore structure dimensions are analysed.After manufacturing, specimens are extracted and characterized in single-lap shear tests comparing different configurations to identify boundary conditions for the laser structuring with optimal bonding characteristics.
An Overview of Impregnation Methods for Carbon Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastics
Authors: Köhler Thomas , Röding Tim , Gries Thomas , Seide Gunnar
Published: July 2017

Carbon fibre reinforced plastics (CFRPs) can be classified according to whether the matrix is a thermoset or a thermoplastic. Thermoset-matrix composites are by tradition far more common, but thermoplastic-matrix composites are gaining in importance. There are several techniques for combining carbon fibres with a thermoplastic-matrix system. The composite’s characteristics as well as its manufacturing costs are dependent on the impregnation technique of the carbon fibre and the textile structure respectively. Carbon fibre reinforced thermoplastics (CFRTPs) are suitable for fast and economic production of high-performance components. Despite the higher material costs thermoplastic-matrix systems show cost benefits in comparison to thermoset-matrix due to substantial time savings in the production process. Moreover CFRTPs can be manufactured in large production runs. The commingling of reinforcement fibres with matrix fibres is a well-established process. Another approach is the coating of the carbon fibre with a thermoplastic subsequent to the carbon fibre production (carbonization, activation and deposition of sizing). The latter point is currently subject of research and is a promising method for further increasing the production speed.
This paper presents the different possibilities of impregnating carbon fibres with a thermoplastic matrix. Diverse technologies along the process chain of the CFRTP production will be discussed.
One Step Production of Bicomponent Yarns with Glass Fibre Core and Thermoplastic Sheath for Composite Applications
Authors: Lüking Alexander , Brüll Robert , Köhler Thomas , Pico Davide , Seide Gunnar , Gries Thomas
Published: July 2017

The film stacking method is the industrial standard for the manufacturing of fibre reinforced thermoplastic composites (FRTCs). An alternative to this is commingling thermoplastic fibres with reinforcement fibres, e. g. glass fibres, into hybrid yarns. However, the composites produced by the use of film-stacking or hybrid yarns cannot achieve an optimal impregnation of reinforcement fibres with the matrix polymer. This stens from the high melt viscosity of thermoplastics, which prevents a uniform wetting of the reinforcement fibres. Leaving some fibers is unconnected to the matrix. This leads to composite lower strength than theoretically possible. The aim of the research is the coating of a single glass filament in the glass fibre nozzle drawing process to achive a homogenous distribution of glass fibres and matrix in the final composite. The approach uses particles with a diameter from 5 to 25 μm of polyamide 12 (PA 12) which are electrostatically charged and blown at an Eglass filament in the nozzle drawing process as seen in. The particles adhering to the filament are melted by infrared heating and winded afterwards. This development will allow the homogenous distribution of fibres and the matrix in a thermoplastic composite allowing a higher fibre volume content leading to improved mechanical properties. Even though the glass filaments could be coated with PA 12, a homogenous sheath could not be achieved in this investigation. Therefore, further research will focus on an improved homogeneity by reducing the agglomeration of PA 12, using dried PA12 and enhancing the coating setup.
Ultrasonic Fatigue of CFRP - Experimental Principle, Damage Analysis and Very High Cycle Fatigue Properties
Authors: Weibel Dominic , Balle Frank , Backe Daniel
Published: July 2017

Structural aircraft components are often subjected to more than 108 loading cycles during their service life. Therefore the increasing use of carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) as primary lightweight structural materials leads to the demand of a precise knowledge of the fatigue behavior and the corresponding failure mechanisms in the very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) range. To realise fatigue investigations for more than 108 loading cycles in an economic reasonable time a novel ultrasonic fatigue testing facility (UTF) for cyclic three-point bending was developed and patented. To avoid critical internal heating due to viscoelastic damping and internal friction, the fatigue testing at 20 kHz is performed in resonance as well as in pulse-pause control resulting in an effective testing frequency of ~1 kHz and the capability of performing 109 loading cycles in less than twelve days. The fatigue behavior of carbon fiber twill 2/2 fabric reinforced polyphenylene sulfide (CF-PPS) and carbon fiber 4-H satin fabric reinforced epoxy resin (CF-EP) was investigated. To study the induced fatigue damage of CF-PPS and CF-EP in the VHCF regime in detail, the fatigue mechanisms and damage development were characterized by light optical and SEM investigations during interruptions of constant amplitude tests (CAT). Lifetime-oriented investigations showed a significant decrease of the bearable stress amplitudes of CF-PPS and CFEP in the range between 106 to 109 loading cycles. The ultrasonically fatigued thermoset matrix composite showed a significantly different VHCF behavior in comparison to the investigated thermoplastic matrix composite: No fiber-matrix debonding or transversal cracks were present on the specimen edges, but a sudden specimen failure along with carbon fiber breakage have been observed. The fatigue shear strength at 109 cycles for CF-PPS could be determined to τa, 13 = 4.2 MPa and to τa, 13 = 15.8 MPa for the thermoset material CF-EP.
Development of a New Method for Residual Stress Analysis on Fiber Reinforced Plastics with Use of Digital Image Correlation
Authors: Rief Thomas , Hausmann Joachim M. , Motsch Nicole
Published: July 2017

In scope of the investigation of residual stresses the hole drilling method is an accepted method. The method is though not applicable for materials with high anisotropic behavior. Therefore a new algorithm is derived which allows the calculation of residual stresses in laminates made of unidirectional layers. Also the strain gauges deliver only strains on the areas where the strain gauges are applied. With the use of a high resolution imaging system and digital image correlation this area and the informational output can be widely improved.
First, the derivation of the residual stress analysis algorithm is presented. For this an adequate finite element model, which is modeling the cooldown process as well as the drilling process, is set up and the surface strains are extracted. Based on this information an algorithm is derived and presented. Within the derivation a change of the layup, a possible change of the cooldown process and a variation of the drilling steps can be investigated. In consequence the input parameters of the algorithm can vary dependent on these factors. Second, the new optical testing setup with refinements to be able to measure the small deformations within micro-strains on the specimen’s surface is prepared and the concept presented. To solve the problem of casting shadows of the drill a special camera setup is being used.
Polypropylene Based Piezo Ceramic Compounds for Micro Injection Molded Sensors
Authors: Doerffel Christoph , Decker Ricardo , Heinrich Michael , Tröltzsch Jürgen , Spieler Mirko , Nendel Wolfgang , Kroll Lothar
Published: July 2017

Polymer matrix compounds based on piezo ceramic and electrically conducting particles within a thermoplastic matrix show distinctive piezoelectric and dielectric effects which can used for sensor applications. The electrical and mechanical properties can be adjusted in a wide range by varying the ratio of active filling particles and the matrix materials.
The sensor effect of the compound is generated by the ceramic particles. A large ratio of piezo ceramic powder facilitates a high sensitivity. The electrical permittivity of the otherwise insulating matrix polymer can be adjusted by the amount of conductive filler. An aligned permittivity leads to a stronger electrical field in the ceramic particles. In contrast, too many conductive particles create a conductive network in the compound which short-circuits the sensors.
The piezo ceramic compounds can be processed via micro injection molding for application as ceramic sensors. This offers a wide range of new sensor design variants, notably three-dimensional and highly complex geometries. However, there are two main demands for a highly sensitive sensor, which are conflicting. On the one hand the filler content of piezo ceramic particles in combination with electrical conductive carbon nanotubes must be very high, on the other hand the wall thickness should be as thin as possible. For filling cavities with a high aspect-ratio in an injection molding process, low viscosity polymer melts are necessary. These process characteristics conflict with the increasing viscosity by filling the melt with the particles. The sensor measuring area has to be designed as thin walled as possible. In order to overcome this obstacle a dynamically tempered mold design is applied to avoid solidification of the melt, before the mold is completely filled. The mold can be tempered by Peltier elements. The fully electric tempering is cleaner, more precise and more reliable than conventional water or oil tempering.
Simultaneous Effect of Reaction Temperature and Concentration of Surfactant in Organo-Bentonite Synthesis
Authors: Macuvele Domingos Lusitâneo Pier , Nones Janaína , Matsinhe Jonas V. , Bezerra A.T. , Lima M.M. , Santos E.S.W. , Fiori Márcio Antônio , Riella Humberto Gracher
Published: July 2017

Transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to study the effect of the temperature and concentration of octadecylamine (surfactant) in the conformation state of amine chains incorporated in a bentonite matrix by organophilization process. The temperature is the most important factor in conformational changes-gauche/trans. Whereas the simultaneous increase of the temperature and concentration of surfactant favors the disordered conformation-gauche. This result is very important in the development of organo-bentonite based polymeric nanocomposites because the intercalation of the polymer in the galleries of the organo-bentonite is dependent on the conformation of the alkyl chains.
The Exchange Energy Term and the Curling Reversal Mode in Hard Magnetic Materials Manufactured by Powder Metallurgy
Authors: da Silva Jr. Amilton Ferreira , Martins Adriano S. , de Campos Marcos Flavio
Published: July 2017

The curling reversal mode is discussed, with emphasis on the assumptions of the model, many of them unrealistic. The curling mode assumes the Bloch approximation, where a cosine function is approximated by a polynomial of second order. It is argued that if the curling model takes place, this could affect the anisotropy field, and then the anisotropy field would be function of the grain size, but this is not observed. Exchange effects may affect hysteresis curve, as discussed in the SW-CLC model.
The variability in the hydrosedimentological regime supports high phytoplankton diversity in floodplain: a 12-year survey of the Upper Paraná River
Authors: Bortolini Jascieli Carla , Train Sueli , Rodrigues Luzia Cleide
Published: July 2017

The alpha, beta, and gamma diversity are important tools for conservation studies, and the distribution of species in space and time is essential to provided insights regarding diversity patterns and processes that modify the ecosystem and the community responses to such changes. Thus, a long-term ecological date was used to evaluate in 12 biotopes the phytoplankton composition and diversity within selected habitats (alpha diversity), between habitats (beta diversity) and across the upper Paraná River floodplain (gamma diversity). We evaluate the environmental variability of the hydrosedimentological cycles (limnophase and potamophase) during 12 years, associated with the water level variability and with the environmental heterogeneity as drivers of the phytoplankton composition and diversity in the upper Paraná River floodplain. Remarkable gamma diversity was recorded especially in limnophase, however, years with intense flood presented high gamma diversity, and years with extreme drought presented low gamma diversity, although without significant differences. The alpha diversity was significantly different on spatial and temporal scales. The beta diversity showed high values, however with low temporal variability and without correlation with the hydrosedimentological regime of the Paraná River. Overall, these results indicate that the variability in the hydrosedimentological regime associated with the periodicity, duration, and amplitude of limnophase and potamophase, and the pattern of mosaic of habitats in this floodplain are essential for sustaining much of the diversity phytoplankton diversity and ecosystem integrity, and that this approach is relevant and proved be useful to understand floodplain systems and associated phytoplankton community.
A rare case of acute megakaryoblastic leukemia with orbital chloroma in a non-Down syndrome child
Authors: Koneru Sahitya , Jain Sandeep , Kapoor Gauri
Published: July 2017

Acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (AMKL) is a rare disease accounting for 7%–10% of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in children. It is uncommon in children without Down syndrome (DS). Orbital chloroma is usually associated with AML M2, M4, and M5. Herein, we report the case of a 22-month-old female who was diagnosed to have AMKL with orbital chloromas and without DS. Morphology and the initial panel of immunophenotyping were inconclusive and the presence of orbital chloromas added to the ambiguity. The presence of CD61 expression and marrow fibrosis supported by hyperdiploidy helped us clinch the diagnosis. Hence, comprehensive analysis of morphology, immunophenotyping, and cytogenetics is warranted to make an accurate diagnosis of AMKL.
Is simultaneous surgery for nodes and primary in carcinoma penis safe?
Authors: Chandrasekhar Senthil , Narayanswamy Kathiresan
Published: July 2017

Introduction: Historically, the combination of primary and nodal surgeries for carcinoma penis is thought to increase the morbidity and hospital stay. Despite the modifications in surgery including modified inguinal lymphadenectomies, morbidity of the procedure is high.

Methods: A prospective, nonrandomized study to analyze a total of 56 consecutive patients from 2006 to 2009, who were evaluated and underwent surgery for primary and nodes for carcinoma penis at our center, was done. The median follow-up was 34 months (range from 12 to 48 months). The procedures included both prophylactic and therapeutic groin dissections. Various parameters were tested using SPSS version 17 statistics software.

Results: Duration of drains, hospital stay, wound morbidity, and long-term complications were found to be similar in the simultaneous and staged surgery groups. The mean duration of drains for the simultaneous group of 18 patients was 12.56 days and the corresponding duration of drains for the staged surgery group of 36 patients was 12.83 days. The minor morbidity and major morbidity for the simultaneous group were 27.8% and 38.9% and the corresponding figures for the staged group were 22.2% and 44.4%, respectively. The mean and median hospital stay for the simultaneous surgery group were 21.5 and 27.5 days, respectively. The mean and median hospital stay for the staged surgery group were 17.5 and 21.36 days, respectively. The study revealed no statistically significant difference between the two groups with regard to all the above parameters.

Conclusions: Simultaneous surgery for the primary and nodes in carcinoma penis is very much feasible. Simultaneous and early-staged lymphadenectomy have no difference in results with respect to drain duration, hospital stay, wound morbidity, and long-term complications. Simultaneous lymphadenectomy can be combined with penectomy both in the prophylactic and therapeutic settings.
Clinicoepidemiological profile of hematological malignancies in pediatric age group in Ahmedabad
Authors: Prajapati Zankhana , Kokani Mayur , Gonsai R.
Published: July 2017

Background: This hematological malignancy comprises a major health problem in the society due to its high mortality and morbidity. There is a need for the accurate estimation of incidence and prevalence of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), and other hematological malignancies in India to estimate the true disease burden and its impact on the population which may help in formulating the guideline which helps in better risk stratification and treatment. Unfortunately, there is a real paucity if epidemiologic data on pediatric cancers in India and particularly in several parts of Gujarat.

Objectives: To find out the prevalence and other epidemiological distribution of hematological malignancy in pediatric age group patients. Furthermore, it was objected to study hematological profile and bone marrow typing in pediatric patients with hematological malignancies.

Methodology: A prospective observational study carried out over 2½ years. Confirm cases of hematological malignancies were recruited from the pediatric outpatient and inpatient department. Data recorded in the preformed case record form include demographic data, data of clinical history and clinical examination, laboratory findings such as complete blood count, peripheral smear examinations, bone marrow examination for cellularity and differential count, and immunophenotyping. Fine needle aspiration cytology or biopsy of lymph node was done in suspected lymphoma patients.

Observations: ALL is the most common hematological malignancy among pediatric patients in the present study with 122 out of 158 patients (77.21%). Other malignancies are acute myeloid leukemia (AML) (13.29%) and chronic myeloid leukemia (2.59%) and lymphoma (5.69%). Nearly half of the patients were below 5 years of age (51.26%) and males were predominantly affected with frequency of 77.6%. Common clinical features were fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, bone pain, petechies, hepatic and splenomegaly, pallor, and lymphadenopathy. In ALL, most common blast type in bone marrow was L1 type (86.44%), whereas in AML, it is M2 type (80%).

Conclusion: The most common type of malignancies in pediatric age group is hematological malignancies with predominant variant is ALL. It is commonly affecting age below 5 years with male predominance.