bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Aluminium Powder Additives upon CO2 Reactivity of Electrolytic Aluminium Carbon Anode with Calcined Anthracite
Authors: Ren Yao Jian , Sun Zhi , Quan Gai Ge
Published: January 2014

Charcoal slag that falls away from electrolytic aluminium carbon anode caused by selective oxygenization is recognizad as the principal factor of carbon anode excessive consumption in electrolyzation. In this paper, effect of aluminium powder upon calcined anthracite carbon anode CO2 reactivity at 970°C was tested and measured to reduce carbon consumption. The result indicates that aluminium powder added to calcined anthracite carbon anode effectively reduced the CO2 reactivity at 970°C. The experiment shows that the oxidizing level and deciduous level of carbon anode with 0.8wt.% aluminium powder additives is the lowest, which is 32.8% and 70% lower than that without additives individually, and the total consumption rate reduces to 39.28 mg·cm-2·h-1. It is considered that the inoxidizability increases with advancing the cokeability, increasing the graphitization degree and reducing the porosity of carbon anode through aluminium volume increasing and pitch thermolysis catalyzing in calcination.
Comparison of the Bearing Capacity of Dry and Wet Cutting Surfaces
Authors: Qiu Kun , Long Zhen Hai
Published: January 2014

The performance of high strength steels is sensitive to the surface quality of machined surfaces. The effect of cutting condition on the variation of surface roughness in turning of 30CrMnSiA steel has been investigated through a serial of dry and oil-lubricant cutting tests. The characters of an amplitude characteristics set, Ra, Ry and tp, which are associated with the general shape of the machined surface profiles, are investigated in this study. It is concluded that, in the aspect of Ra and Ry values, dry cutting condition provides a similar surface roughness as in wet cutting condition under the experimental conditions of the present research; the bearing capacity of both kinds of machined surfaces, characterized by the bearing length rate tp, could be different according to the cutting parameters combinations.
Laser Transmission Welding of Thermoplastic: Effect of Process Parameters on Weld Strength
Authors: Singare Se Kou , Chen Shen Gui , Zou Jian Jun , Lin Yong Zhou
Published: January 2014

This paper investigates the effect of the laser welding parameters such as laser power, welding speed on weld strength. A 30W fiber laser with wavelength 1064nm has been used to weld transparent and absorbing acrylics in lap weld configuration. The force at break of the lap welds was assessed on the Universal testing machine,the shear strength was calculated by dividing the force at break by the weld area. Weld fracture surfaces and weld cross-sections were also analyzed under microscope using reflected polarized light to qualitatively assess the weld quality.
The Effect of Air Pressure on the Evolution of Fiber Path in Melt-Blowing Process
Authors: Xie Sheng , Zeng Yong Chun
Published: January 2014

Melt blowing is an important method for producing ultrafine fibers. In melt blowing process, compared to the studies on the fiber path at a certain air pressure condition, much less has been done on searching the evolution of the fiber paths at different air pressures. In this study, a high-speed camera was used to capture the fiber paths below a slot die and a swirl die in the melt-blowing process. The evolution of the fiber paths was captured. This paper first shows the evolution of the fiber paths at different air pressures, which is useful to further understand the attenuation effect on the fiber in the melt-blowing process.
Vibration Analysis and Research on Air Bearing Block of CMM
Authors: Zhao Xiao Qing
Published: January 2014

This paper describes the CMM main error sources and their classification, Dynamic error of flotation blocks vibration due to a single degree of freedom is for analysis, the use of the Navier - Stokes equations and mathematical modeling equations of Newtonian mechanics, the establishment of finite element model and simulation analysis, the movement of the coordinate measuring machine in the dynamic stress and deformation and vibration conditions for the design of coordinate measuring machine provides a new approach.
The Effect of Coating Agent and Preparation on the Thermostability of Coated Potassium Chlorate
Authors: Yang Hai Jun , Cheng Yin , Zhou Wei Wei , Hu Xi , Wu Zhong Qing
Published: January 2014

In order to improve the thermostability of potassium chlorate particles, microencapsulation method was used to coat potassium chlorate particles. The effects of coating agents on thermostability of coated potassium chlorate particles were investigated by differential thermal analysis (DTA) and optical video microscope. An optimum study of preparation process parameters was carried out by orthogonal design. The results show that the Silane coupling agent kh550 is the most efficient coating agent to inhibit the decomposition of potassium chlorate and result in the improvement of potassium chlorate. The optimal process for the microencapsulation is 5%Silane coupling agent, reaction temperature 40°Cand holding for 3h.
Theoretic and Experimental Research of Crankshafts Barrel Finishing
Authors: Zeng Jie , Jiang Hao Zeng
Published: January 2014

At present, crankshafts with larger size are finished mostly by abrasive cloth and manual steel brush, which is not ideal on finishing quality, efficiency and cost, especially cleanness degree does not meet design and use request. So horizontal spindle barrel finishing has been developed and has good finishing effects for crankshafts with small size. But this process has bad uniformity for connecting rod journal of crankshafts with larger size by simulation experiments. Aimed at the size, shape and weight of crankshafts with larger size, theoretic research is done, and main factors for finishing uniformity are analyzed. Finally its finishing project is defined and experiments are done. The research indicates that this process is very effective for crankshafts with larger size, and has also positive influence on efficiency and auto product line.
3D Numerical Analysis about Effect of Seal Clearance on Labyrinth Seal Performance
Authors: Ba Peng , Liu Lu , Zhang Xiu Heng
Published: January 2014

In this paper, the GAMBIT of 3D model was adopted to divide the labyrinth gap in an unstructured approach. Simulation was carried out on one of the important factors which affect the labyrinth seal performance---the seal clearance. The results were compared with the simulation data of the 2D model. The experimental results prove that the effects of the circumferential turbulence make energy dissipation of the sealed cavity exacerbated; the throttling effect of the sealed cavity is significant and it plays a role that cannot be ignored in changing the labyrinth seal performance.
Study on Coordinating Control Strategy of Hybrid Cascade Energy Storage and Bi-Directional Power Regulation Device
Authors: Miao Qing , Wu Jun Yong , Ai Hong Ke , Xiong Fei , Qi Da Wei , Hao Liang Liang
Published: January 2014

This paper presents a novel topology and the coordinating control strategy of the hybrid cascade energy storage and bi-directional power regulation device. First, the voltage gain and power transmission characteristics of isolated half-bridge DC/DC converter have been analyzed. On this basis, the coordinating control strategy of the two kinds of converters is mainly studied. Finally, a detailed bi-directional power regulation device model is established on a PSCAD/EMTDC platform.
Dynamic Recrystallization Behavior of Pure Titanium
Authors: Su Juan Hua , Han Ya Wei , Ren Feng Zhang , Chen Zhi Qiang
Published: January 2014

The dynamic recrystallization of commercially pure titanium was investigated by compression tests on Gleeble-1500D thermal simulation test machine at temperature of 700950 °C and strain rate of 0. 015 s1. The total compression deformation is 0.7(true strain). The kinetics of dynamic recrystallization of commercially pure titanium at 950 °C was modeled by Avrami equation. The results show that the dynamic recovery and recrystallization obviously occur during compression. The flow stress increases to a peak value and gradually decreases to a steady state. The flow stress is decreased with the increase of deformation temperature and it is increased with the increase of strain rate. The Avrami kinetics model of dynamic recrystallization of commercially pure titanium at 950 °C is obtained .
Distributed Photovoltaic Power Generation System Design and Grid Research
Authors: Zhang Chuan Yang , Li Xiao Wei , Liu Mo Chen , Xi Zhong Mei
Published: January 2014

Solar photovoltaic power generation, as a kind of clean and environmental protection of green energy, is the recent much-needed supplement energy, is the basis of the future energy structure. Based on the semiconductor photovoltaic effect of photovoltaic power generation technology, can satisfy the needs of human beings. In this paper, based on rural residential distributed photovoltaic, 3 kw photovoltaic roof is introduced systematically the principle, classification and the hardware equipment, the working principle of the inverter was discussed several common method of maximum power tracking.
The Design Study on a Novel MW Wind Power Generation Speed-Up Machine
Authors: Han Li Fen , Ding Wei Feng , Zhong Shou Yan , Liao Zi Long
Published: January 2014

A novel efficient transmission, toroidal drive, was introduced into the field of wind power. A novel MW (Million Watt) wind power generation speed-up machine (WPGSM) was designed to replace the gear speed-up machine. The structure scheme of the MW WPGSM was designed and the design platform for the MW WPGSM was developed by UG/OPEN,VC++ and hybrid optimization algorithm based on the unigraphics (UG) software.
Optimization of Smoothing Control in Hybrid Wind and Battery Energy Storage System
Authors: Zhang Bai Hua , Guo Hai Feng , Li Yong Xing , Chen Man , Li Yong Qi , Zhou Jin Song
Published: January 2014

In recent years, renewable energy technologies like wind power generation are developing very fast. However, due to the randomness and intermittency of wind, the integration of large-scale wind farm into grid will have negative impact on many aspects of the grid. An effective way to solve these problems is to install battery energy storage system (BESS) in a wind farm. In order to smooth the output power of wind farm, this paper established a mathematical model for solving optimization problems of hybrid wind and BESS system, solved it with modern interior point algorithm. Charge-discharge process of BESS is optimized using the result of wind power prediction. Sensitivity of constraints in the model is also analyzed and optimal design of output power and capacity of BESS can be obtained as a by-product.
An Improved Newton's Method and its Application in Power System
Authors: Hu Wen Bin , Li Xian Shan , Hu Ran , Wan Hua Jian , Yao Wei Wei
Published: January 2014

This paper proposed a fast weighting improving method based on an improved Newton's method with third-order convergence, made the intuitive geometric interpretation of the algorithm principle, and constructed a sum function of squared errors to obtain the optimal weighting factor. With a certain example being provided, the results showed that the improved algorithm requires less iterations and less calculating time than the classical Newtons method and the one in references. This improved algorithm is of widespread value in the analysis and calculation of power systems.
The Analysis of Circuit Breaker Health Index and the Characteristic Quantity
Authors: Pang Er Jun , Yu Hong , Tang Gui Ji , Liu Ze Kun , Xu Cheng Long
Published: January 2014

During circuit breaker risk condition assessment, the most important thing is to calculate the circuit breaker health index (HI). Aiming at the collected data for risk assessment is incomplete or it is not useful for the assessment, this paper analyzed the principle from of the health index calculation process, finding the various characteristics, which has an effect on the health, further more calculated the contribution to the health index, streamlining the data list for assessment. It has an important guiding significance for the future data collection.
Nano-Rheology and its Application in Controlled-Release Fragrance Nanocapsules Suspensions
Authors: Xiao Zuo Bing , Wang Er Qin , Zhu Guang Yong , Zhou Ru Jun , Niu Yun Wei , Liu Wan Long , Lei Dong Hua , Liu Cheng
Published: January 2014

In the present paper, we have introduced the preparation and classification of nanofluids. The factors that influence the viscosity of nanofluids and researches on the fundamental research to specific applications of nanorheology in controlled-release fragrance nanocapsules suspensions are discussed. Finally some problems exist in the research of nanorheology are summarized.
The Key-Factor Modulation of Waste Tire Pyrolysis in Resource Chemical Plant for Recovered Fuel Production
Authors: Chen Kuo Wei
Published: January 2014

The study was to investigate the pyrolysis technology of the Recovered Fuel produced from waste tire. Waste tire block was disposed of the pyrolysis in resource chemical plant to produce the Recovered Fuel. The pyrolysis operation was controlled by a Catalyst, pyrolysis temperature and reaction time. In general, the set flash point, sulfur content and heat value of the Recovered Fuel ameliorate with the reaction time for significant impact. The set flash point and heat value of the Recovered Fuel ameliorate with the pyrolysis temperature for significant impact. The set flash point, sulfur content and heat value of the Recovered Fuel ameliorate with the pyrolysis processing Catalyst B13A.The results also show the production techniques and commercialization of marketing orientation in accordance with appropriate operating conditions in this study.
Research on Preparation and Properties of Biodiesel
Authors: Zhu Jing , Fu Cheng Bi , Sun Ming Zhu , Wu Wen Tao
Published: January 2014

The waste cooking oils was prepared into biodiesel by transesterification. The optimum conditions are: waste oil 73 g, temperature 60°C, methanol solution25 ml, NaOH amount 1.0 g and reaction time 60 min. The properties of biodiesel are close to that of 0# diesel.
Two-Phase Mesophilic Anaerobic Co-Digestion of Food Waste and Sewage Sludge: Effect of Hydraulic Retention Time
Authors: Wang Guo Hua , Wang Lei , Tan Xue Jun , Wang Yi Xian , Wang Feng
Published: January 2014

The impact of hydraulic retention time (HRT) on two-phase mesophilic (35°C) anaerobic co-digestion of food waste and sewage sludge was studied under mixing ratio of 1:1 on the TS basis. Laboratory-scale, two-phase anaerobic digestion systems were employed with each system consisting of an acidogenic reactor and a methanogenic reactor linked in series. For the acidogenic phase, an increase of volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration was observed as HRT increased from 1d to 5d and the HRT of 5d was recommended for significantly higher VFA production and less propionate percentage, which could provide stable and favourable substrates for the methane reactor. Under acidogenic HRT of 5d, 20d was proved to be the optimum HRT for methanogenic phase with the methane content, methane production rate, methane yield and two-phase VS removal rate reached 71%, 0.7L/(L·d), 0.69L/gVSremoved and 64.7%, respectively. Results verified that the constraints of conventional anaerobic digestion for food waste or sewage sludge separately could be overcome by synergistic effect of co-digestion strategy and two-phase treatment.
Accelerated Biodegradation of PLA Nonwovens in Soil Bacterial Suspensions
Authors: Zhang Peng , Ye Hai Xian , Zhu Rui Tian , Zhan Zhi Cheng , Lin Xiao Shan , Yan Yu Rong
Published: January 2014

Bio-based biodegradable materials like poly (lactic acid), PLA has been using in many field in different forms due to its advantages in facing greenhouse gas emission. Long-term degradation behavior in nature soil is not a good way to evaluate the biodegradability of PLA, an accelerated biodegradation of PLA in soil bacterial suspensions was carried out under controlled laboratory conditions. The degradation behavior of PLA nonwovens with basic weight of 80g/m2 and 23g/m2 were studied using mechanical testing, SEM and FTIR analysis. Results showed that an anaerobic biodegradation was found during the degradation of PLA, no significant shifts or formation of new bands in FT-IR test. A number of cracks speared on fiber surface means biodegradation happened in amorphous part in fibers. Heavy basic weight nonwoven showed faster biodegradation than that of a light one.
Characteristics of Particulate Matter about Emissions in a Heavy-Duty Diesel Engine with Biodiesel Blends
Authors: Lou Di Ming , Shen Tian Yu , Zhou Yi , Hu Zhi Yuan , Tan Pi Qiang , Qiang Qiang
Published: January 2014

A China-V Heavy-duty diesel engine fueled with blends of 5%, 10%, 20%, 50% waste cooking oil biodiesel and diesel (marked separately BD5, BD10, BD20, BD50), pure biodiesel (BD100) and pure diesel (D100), was tested on full load speed characteristics and 1400 r/min and 2200 r/min load characteristics to study influence of biodiesel fuel and engine conditions on particle size distributions and particle number concentration. The results show that when fueled with blends containing less than 50% biodiesel, the particle number concentrations show single peak distribution curves (nucleation mode), for the pure biodiesel, particle number concentrations show bimodal distribution including nucleation mode and accumulation mode on full load speed characteristics and 1400 r/min and 2200 r/min load characteristics; on full load speed characteristics, for BD100, the peak of particle number concentration of BD100 is lowest, compared with D100, it is about one order of magnitude lower; on 1400r/min load characteristics, with the biodiesel proportion increasing, the number of nucleation mode and accumulation mode particles decreases; on lower than 1800 r/min full load speed characteristics and 1400 r/min and 2200 r/min load characteristics, with the biodiesel proportion increasing, the particle number concentration decreases.
Study on Construction Technology of Drain Board for Foundation Covered with Thicker Hardpan
Authors: Li Wan , Huang Ming Hui , Li Mo
Published: January 2014

In the paper, Construction technology and equipment improvement of plastic drainage boards driven in land area are studied. Because overlying hardpan is thick in some areas, drainage plate cant be driven by common vibratory board machine. In allusion to this instance, the machine was refitted to superficial drilling holes machine, a bore was drilled and then the drainage plate was driven to deal with the foundations covered with thick hardpan. Performance of this technology is researched and explored to deal with a complex foundation treatment by reclamation silt.
Model Experiment Study on Anti-Explosion Characteristics of Underground Caverns Reinforced by External Cross-Anchoring
Authors: Wang Jian Jun , Wang Ya Jun , Guo Chang Ying
Published: January 2014

The objective of this paper is exactly to assess the effect of anti-explosion for tunnels anchored outside under the condition of thin coating layer. To meet the similarity requirements, two groups of test models were made to simulate the responses of caverns under blast loading. It showed that: been anchored outside, displacements of the wall in caverns was decreased, so were the acceleration and compressive stresses with varying degrees, but the deformation stiffness and the overall stability were enhanced. This method does not take up space inside but it is beneficial to reduce the minimum thickness of protective layer and provides a new way to improve the anti-explosion performance for caverns under the conditions of thin coating layer.
Application of Numerical Simulation in Reinforcement of Caverns Underground by External Cross-Anchoring
Authors: Wang Jian Jun , Wang Ya Jun , Guo Chang Ying
Published: January 2014

In this paper, the responses of cavern underground reinforced by external cross-anchoring under blast loading were simulated by three-dimensional computational model made in software FLAC3D. It compared and supplementary analyzed the calculated displacement curves, the nephograms of maximum principal stress and destruction of cavern with that of model test, and analyzed the effect and mechanism of reinforced cable in this way comprehensively from deformation and destruction of surrounding rock outside, dynamic strain of cavern, energy absorption by anchor and energy consumption transferred through stress etc.
Theoretical Model of Moisture Migration in Frost Soil Material
Authors: Zheng Long , Shen Yang
Published: January 2014

Frost action leads to water movement toward frozen parts in soil matrix, and thus causes freeze heave and thaw weakening issues in many engineering works. This study was conducted as an attempt to investigate the analytical solutions to the water movement and distribution taken place in soil which was subjected to frost action. A geometry model was established by dividing the soil matrix into two individual parts in terms of the freezing progress each part takes. Model analytical solutions were sought with regard to the water movement over time that frost action takes. The analytical solutions were compared with the test results in a preceding investigation. It is indicated that the analytical solutions derived from the model is in good agreement with the test results and is reliable to predict the water movement in soil driven by frost action.
Preparation and Stability Studies of a Desulfurizer Loaded on Porous Silica Gel
Authors: Xu Wei , Lai Meng Long , Su Qi , Guo Jing Hua , Fang Y.Y. , Xu Jin
Published: January 2014

A novel ionic liquid 1,1,3,3-tetramethylguanidinium lactate (TMGL) has been prepared. And the stability of ionic liquid was determined at different temperatures and pressures, which shows extremely low vapor pressure and high thermal stability. TMGL was immobilized by adjusting the feed ratio (TMGL/SiO2) and particle size, the concentration of 0.90% sulfur dioxide gas passed into a certain amount of the loaded ionic liquid TMGL-SiO2, quickly reduced to less than 0.05%, the concentration was measured by a BRUKER Infra-red Spectrometer. This ionic liquid has potential applications in flue gas desulphuration (FGD).
Preparation and Properties of Copper Antibacterial Silica
Authors: Bai Guang Hui , He Cai Ling , Wang Tong Song , Lv Lin
Published: January 2014

This paper introduces the antibacterial white carbon black produced by the method of sol-gel,and explores the preparation conditions of antibacterial white carbon black copper and its antibacterial effect.By changing the concentration of metal ions , the reaction time, the speed in the process of preparation,the experiment results obtained optimum conditions is Cu2+ concentration of 0.05mol / L, reaction time 4h, speed 300r/min.
Some Developments on Cup Anemometer Aerodynamics
Authors: Pindado Santiago , Cubas Javier
Published: January 2014

In the present study the geometry of cups is experimentally studied through anemometer performance. This performance is analyzed in two different ways. On the one hand the anemometer transfer function between cases is compared. On the other hand the stationary rotation speed is decomposed into constant and harmonic terms, the comparison being established between the last ones. Results indicate that some cup shapes can improve the uniformity of anemometer rotation, this fact being important to reduce degradation due to ageing.
Energy Transfer and Fluid Flow around a Massive Astrophysical Object
Authors: Corral Bustamante R. Leticia , Corral Evelyn M. Rodríguez , Magdaleno José Nino Hernández , Chávez Gilberto Irigoyen
Published: January 2014

In this work it is presented the modeling and simulation of energy transfer and fluid flow of a stationary spherical arrangement of particles surrounding a gravitational body such as an astrophysical object that carries the curvature of space-time continuum in general relativity, taking into account the thermodynamics of the second law.
This model also predicts the drag of space and time around an astrophysical object as it rotates, with results close to the experimental data reported by other authors.
To model the energy transfer of the mass and the fluid flow in the space-time, it is used a 4-dimensional system. In order to make measurements of entropy in the arrow of time (past-present), tensors in General Relativity were used to calculate this thermodynamic quantity and with this, the big bang ́s low entropy condition in phase space of coarse graining (Hawking ́s box), according to Weyl curvature hypothesis (WCH) of Roger Penrose.
Contribution of this paper is presented by tensors which carry information that has to do with something as non-distortion effect in fluid flow around the astrophysical object and the low entropy condition that is believed to exist in the past, in the big bang; what leads us to search for a new physical-mathematical science to continue. At this point, the Einstein field equations are out of context, which leads us to conclude that it is necessary a mathematical science that allows us to make calculations to rescue lost information due to collapse of matter to a black hole. This math should allow us to clear up physical phenomena (like origin of the universe) and their relationship, with the objective of unifying theories that lead to a physical science without uncertainties, as at the present time.
In this regard, we propose a metric in hyperbolic coodinates to build a physical wormhole shaped object where gravitational bodies can be housed that allow us to link the past entropy with the present entropy according to the second law of thermodynamics, as a kind of mathematical space or alternative model to compensate in some way, the link between WCH and the phase space volume of the Hawking's box, and the link between WCH and the quantum-mechanical state-vector reduction, , proposed by Penrose which still have not been determined by any author.
Nomenclature
A Two-Phase Flow Solver for Incompressible Viscous Fluids, Using a Pure Streamfunction Formulation and the Volume of Fluid Technique
Authors: Comminal Raphaël , Spangenberg Jon , Hattel Jesper Henri
Published: January 2014

Accurate multi-phase flow solvers at low Reynolds number are of particular interest for the simulation of interface instabilities in the co-processing of multilayered material. We present a two-phase flow solver for incompressible viscous fluids which uses the streamfunction as the primary variable of the flow. Contrary to fractional step methods, the streamfunction formulation eliminates the pressure unknowns, and automatically fulfills the incompressibility constraint by construction. As a result, the method circumvents the loss of temporal accuracy at low Reynolds numbers. The interface is tracked by the Volume-of-Fluid technique and the interaction with the streamfunction formulation is investigated by examining the Rayleigh-Taylor instability and broken dam problem. The results of the solver are in good agreement with previously published theoretical and experimental results of the first and latter mentioned problem, respectively.
Relevance of Nck–CD3ε Interaction for T Cell Activation In Vivo
Authors: Borroto Aldo , Arellano Irene , Blanco Raquel , Fuentes Manuel , Orfao Alberto , Dopfer Elaine P. , Prouza Marek , Suchànek Miloslav , Schamel Wolfgang W. , Alarcón Balbino
Published: January 2014

On TCR ligation, the adaptor Nck is recruited through its src homology 3.1 domain to a proline-rich sequence (PRS) in CD3ε. We have studied the relevance of this interaction for T cell activation in vitro and in vivo by targeting the interaction sites in both partners. The first approach consisted of studying a knockin (KI) mouse line (KI-PRS) bearing a conservative mutation in the PRS that makes the TCR incompetent to recruit Nck. This deficiency prevents T cell activation by Ag in vitro and inhibited very early TCR signaling events including the tyrosine phosphorylation of CD3ζ. Most important, KI-PRS mice are partly protected against the development of neurological symptoms in an experimental autoimmune encephalitis model, and show a deficient antitumoral response after vaccination. The second approach consisted of using a high-affinity peptide that specifically binds the src homology 3.1 domain and prevents the interaction of Nck with CD3ε. This peptide inhibits T cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. These data suggest that Nck recruitment to the TCR is fundamental to mount an efficient T cell response in vivo, and that the Nck–CD3ε interaction may represent a target for pharmacological modulation of the immune response.
Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase δ Regulates Migration and Invasion of Synoviocytes in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Bartok Beatrix , Hammaker Deepa , Firestein Gary S.
Published: January 2014

Cartilage destruction mediated by invasive fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) plays a central role in pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Increased cell migration and degradation of extracellular matrix are fundamental to these processes. The class I PI3Ks control cell survival, proliferation, and migration, which might be involved in cartilage damage in RA. PI3Kδ isoform was recently identified as a key regulator of FLS growth and survival, suggesting that it could contribute to synoviocyte aggressive behavior. Therefore, we assessed the role of PI3Kδ in RA synoviocyte migration and invasion. We observed that PI3Kδ inhibition or small interfering RNA knockdown decreased platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)–mediated migration and invasion of FLS. We then showed that PI3Kδ regulates the organization of actin cytoskeleton and lamellipodium formation during PDGF stimulation. To gain insight into molecular mechanisms, we examined the effect of PI3Kδ inhibition on Rac1/PAK, FAK, and JNK activation. Our studies suggest that Rac1/PAK is key target of PDGF-mediated PI3Kδ signaling, whereas FAK and JNK are not involved. Thus, PI3Kδ contributes to multiple aspects of the pathogenic FLS behavior in RA. These observations, together with previous findings that PI3Kδ regulates FLS growth and survival, suggest that PI3Kδ inhibition could be chondroprotective in RA by modulating synoviocyte growth, migration, and invasion.
Allelic Exclusion of IgH through Inhibition of E2A in a VDJ Recombination Complex
Authors: Hauser Jannek , Grundström Christine , Grundström Thomas
Published: January 2014

A key feature of the immune system is the paradigm that one lymphocyte has only one Ag specificity that can be selected for or against. This requires that only one of the alleles of genes for AgR chains is made functional. However, the molecular mechanism of this allelic exclusion has been an enigma. In this study, we show that B lymphocytes with E2A that cannot be inhibited by calmodulin are dramatically defective in allelic exclusion of the IgH locus. Furthermore, we provide data supporting that E2A, PAX5, and the RAGs are in a VDJ recombination complex bound to key sequences on the Igh gene. We show that pre-BCR activation releases the VDJ recombination complex through calmodulin binding to E2A. We also show that pre-BCR signaling downregulates several components of the recombination machinery, including RAG1, RAG2, and PAX5, through calmodulin inhibition of E2A.
G-CSF Drives a Posttraumatic Immune Program That Protects the Host from Infection
Authors: Gardner Jason C. , Noel John G. , Nikolaidis Nikolaos M. , Karns Rebekah , Aronow Bruce J. , Ogle Cora K. , McCormack Francis X.
Published: January 2014

Traumatic injury is generally considered to have a suppressive effect on the immune system, resulting in increased susceptibility to infection. Paradoxically, we found that thermal injury to the skin induced a robust time-dependent protection of mice from a lethal Klebsiella pneumoniae pulmonary challenge. The protective response was neutrophil dependent and temporally associated with a systemic increase in neutrophils resulting from a reprioritization of hematopoiesis toward myeloid lineages. A prominent and specific activation of STAT3 in the bone marrow preceded the myeloid shift in that compartment, in association with durable increases in STAT3 activating serum cytokines G-CSF and IL-6. Neutralization of the postburn increase in serum G-CSF largely blocked STAT3 activation in marrow cells, reversing the hematopoietic changes and systemic neutrophilia. Daily administration of rG-CSF was sufficient to recapitulate the changes induced by injury including hematopoietic reprioritization and protection from pulmonary challenge with K. pneumoniae. Analysis of posttraumatic gene expression patterns in humans reveals that they are also consistent with a role for G-CSF as a switch that activates innate immune responses and suppresses adaptive immune responses. Our findings suggest that the G-CSF STAT3 axis constitutes a key protective mechanism induced by injury to reduce the risk for posttraumatic infection.
Ethical practice of evidence-based medicine: A review for plastic surgeons
Authors: Ahuja Rajeev B.
Published: January 2014

Last decade has witnessed a spurt in articles focused on the topic of evidence-based medicine (EBM) and medical ethics. These articles are not only educative, but draw attention to the changing scenario of medical practice. Surgeons seem a bit less attentive to practice of EBM, more so in the developing world. The theme is now percolating in our realm for demonstrable incorporation of EBM in our practice, which is allegorical of a good physician and is also likely to become demanding legally. In practicing EBM, several conflicts may arise with the ethical vows of medicine. However, majority of these conflicting issues have germinated from a capitalistic approach to medical practice, where the fear of extraneous compulsions dictating prescriptions and procedures in the garb of ′evidence-based practice′ conflicts ethical behaviour. This review shall appraise the reader with important definitions of medical ethics, EBM and how to incorporate best evidence into ones practice. While, EBM brings objectivity to treatment to derive measurable outcomes it should not become regimented or metamorphose as a pseudonym for defensive medicine to escalate treatment costs. EBM also has several limitations one of which is to place the onus on the practicing physician to search for the best evidence and the other is the resource constraint of practice in the developing world. How a plastic surgery practice could be made to conform to evidence based (EB) procedures is proposed as insufficient surgical skills can pose a serious threat to not only the practice of EB procedures, but to ethical responsibilities as well. In conclusion, it is necessary to incorporate ethical temperance into EB procedures to withstand societal, peer and legal pressures of current times.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy for cutaneous melanoma: A 6 years study
Authors: Sánchez Jaime Lima , Medina M. Sánchez , Duque O. García , Pérez M. Fiúza , Hernández G. Carretero , Palácios J. Fernández
Published: January 2014

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) in cutaneous melanoma at our institution. Materials and Methods: 128 patients with primary cutaneous melanoma who underwent SLNB between April, 2004, and August, 2010 were studied. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to explore the effect of variables on mortality and sentinel node status. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier approach. Results: Positive SLNB were detected in 35 (27.3%) of 128 cases. Mean Breslow depths were 3.7 mm for SLNB positive patients and 1.99 mm for SLNB negative patients. False negative rate was 1%. The recurrence rate was 40% for positive patients and 6.5% for negative patients (odds ratio 9.7 [confidence interval 95 % 3.3-28.1]). 33 patients (29%) had an ulcerated melanoma, 12 (10.5%) in the positive group and 21 (18.5%) in the negative group. The disease recurred in a 48.5% of patients with ulcerated melanoma, but only in a 2.5% of patients with non-ulcerated melanoma. Upon multivariate analysis, only Breslow thickness (P = 0.005) demonstrate statistically significance for SLNB status. Multivariate analysis for clinicopathologic predictors of death demonstrate statistically significance for Breslow thickness (P = 0.020), ulceration (P = 0.030) and sentinel node status (P = 0.020). Conclusions: This study confirms that the status of the sentinel node is a strong independent prognostic factor with a higher risk of death and lower survival. Patients with ulcerated melanoma are more likely to develop recurrence, and also higher risk of death than patients with non-ulcerated melanoma.
Meteorological Influences on the Seasonality of Lyme Disease in the United States
Authors: Moore Sean M. , Eisen Rebecca J. , Monaghan Andrew , Mead Paul
Published: January 2014

Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi infection) is the most common vector-transmitted disease in the United States. The majority of human Lyme disease (LD) cases occur in the summer months, but the timing of the peak occurrence varies geographically and from year to year. We calculated the beginning, peak, end, and duration of the main LD season in 12 highly endemic states from 1992 to 2007 and then examined the association between the timing of these seasonal variables and several meteorological variables. An earlier beginning to the LD season was positively associated with higher cumulative growing degree days through Week 20, lower cumulative precipitation, a lower saturation deficit, and proximity to the Atlantic coast. The timing of the peak and duration of the LD season were also associated with cumulative growing degree days, saturation deficit, and cumulative precipitation, but no meteorological predictors adequately explained the timing of the end of the LD season.
A slide preparation technique for light microscopy analysis of ciliates preserved in acid Lugol's fixative
Authors: Freibott Alexandra , Linacre Lorena , Landry Michael R.
Published: January 2014

A slide preparation method for seawater samples preserved in acid Lugol's is presented here as an alternative to the traditional Utermöhl settling chamber method for microplankton analysis. This preparation maintains the integrity of fragile cells, such as ciliates, resolves issues associated with the transience of samples prepared in settling chambers, and allows the use of automated image acquisition methods. Samples are filtered onto polycarbonate membranes and analyzed with transmitted light microscopy. The visibility of pore outlines is minimized by using mounting oil (Cargille Series A immersion oil, Certified Refractive Index, nD25°C 1.5840 ± 0.0002) with a refractive index matching that of the membrane material. We assessed the efficacy of this new method by comparing abundance and biomass estimates for ciliates in settled and filtered samples. Acceptable results were found for the most delicate of samples stored long‐term in acid Lugol's. Some cell shrinkage occurred during the filtration and brief drying steps. Therefore, corrections for ciliate length and width measurements in filtered samples were determined to counteract this effect on total cell biovolume. Overall, the method provides a simple and stable alternative to settling chamber analysis for ciliates preserved in acid Lugol's.
Interorganisationele samenwerking in de publieke sector - Een casestudie naar een netwerk van organisaties rond criminele jongeren
Authors: Berg, van den Els , Maas Ineke
Published: January 2014

Interorganizational collaboration in the public sector. A case study on a network of organizations around criminal youth.Recently, the municipality of Amsterdam initiated the ‘Top600 approach’ in which more than 30 organizations should cooperate in order to get
600 young violent offenders back on the right track. This article describes the intended and the existing collaborative relationships and investigates which factors affect whether collaboration has come about. Hypotheses are derived from previous American studies on this topic. A social network
analysis shows that there are three times as many collaborative relationships between the organizations as intended. And most of the factors that played a role in the American context, also influenced the degree of interorganizational collaboration in the Netherlands (Amsterdam). A history
of collaboration and common organization goals – factors that exist regardless of the Top600 approach – are playing a major role. Among the specific policies of the Top600 approach especially the making of agreements on cooperation is effective. Finally, for the frequency of contact
and for mutual respect, understanding and trust it is not clear whether they lead to collaboration or whether they are a consequence of collaboration. Most likely they mutually reinforce each other. 1. Inleiding
Intergenerationele overdracht van risicogedrag - Rookgedrag, alcoholgebruik en ongezonde eetgewoonten van ouders en hun volwassen kinderen
Authors: Cate, ten Anne , Huijts Tim , Kraaykamp Gerbert
Published: January 2014

Intergenerational transmission of risk behaviour: the association between smoking, alcohol use, and unhealthy eating habits of parents and their adult children.Employing information on more than 1200 individuals from the Family Survey Dutch Population 2000, we study to what
extent risk behaviour (smoking, alcohol use, and unhealthy eating habits) is transmitted intergenerationally from parents to their adult children. Moreover, by building on theoretical notions on the socialization of risk behavior, we derive expectations on differential effects of parental
risk behaviour for daughters and sons, and for low and high educated children. Our results show that risk behaviour of parents indeed has a stimulating effect on the smoking, drinking, and eating habits of their offspring. The transmission of abstinence and excessive alcohol use of mothers
is stronger for daughters, whereas the transmission of excessive alcohol use of fathers is stronger for sons. Furthermore, higher educated children are less likely to be a smoker when they have a moderately smoking mother, and alcohol abstinence of the father leads to a lower risk of excessive
alcohol use among higher educated children.
Bij het overlijden van Ivan Gadourek (1923-2013)
Authors: Winkels Jeroen
Published: January 2014

‘Sociologie, dat is geen vak,’ poneerde een jonge prinses Beatrix ooit op de receptie na een academische plechtigheid, waarop Ivan Gadourek haar antwoordde: “Majesteit, dan moeten we er een vak van maken”. Het is een typerende opmerking voor Ivan Gadourek, die
op 19 april 2013, bijna negentig jaar oud, overleed. Gadourek was ad rem, humoristisch en in welke situatie dan ook bereid zijn liefdes te verdedigen. En de sociologie behoorde tot die liefdes, naast zijn twee vaderlanden en de bergen die daar tussen lagen.
The changing Countryside: the Need for Innovation in Dialectology
Authors: Backus Ad , Swanenberg Jos
Published: January 2014

As globalization has brought about social changes not seen previously, this squib sketches outlines for a renewal of the field of dialectology. The primary concern is how these changes are reflected in young people’s identity construction and expression, expecting an intricate interplay between the attractions of global and local culture. This may be dealt with by mapping out and analyzing communication in the Dutch countryside, with particular attention to language use and stylistic choices made in everyday communication, both in face-to-face settings and on social media.
Waar zijn de Bindingscondities (gebleven)?
Authors: Reuland Eric
Published: January 2014

What is explanation, and what is there to explain in linguistics? I take the reader on a small excursion into explanation, and to puzzles in linguistics that fascinate me. For instance, we as linguists are so used to the existence of conditions on binding. Yet, in this contribution I ask readers to do a small step back and wonder why there would be conditions on binding at all. And if so, why would they have to be special? Any approach to binding will have to face the challenge of the daunting diversity of surface manifestations of binding patterns. Taking the variation between Dutch, Frisian and English as a starting point I show that our standard binding conditions don’t in fact constitute a unitary phenomenon. Rather, they result from the interplay between different factors, in part not even specific to language: properties of predicates, our general inability to handle identicals in a space with insufficient structure, properties of chains, and general economy conditions. As I show, it is on the basis of such a deconstruction of the binding conditions into component factors that the unity underlying the diversity can be uncovered, and the curious patterns we find explained.
Werkwoordvormen in de zuidelijke Nederlandse dialecten: stamkeuze, werkwoorduitgangen en fonologische aanpassingen in de stam. Analyse en beschrijving op basis van het RND-materiaal, deel III. 2 ev/mv – 3 ev.
Authors: De Schutter Georges
Published: January 2014

This is the third article on endings in verb forms in the southern Dutch dialects (cf. also De Schutter 2008, 2010). It is concerned with the 3rd p. singular and the 2nd p., both singular and plural. But for a very small number of ‘irregular’ verbs, all present tense forms had the same ending (coronal obstruent) for 3rd p. sing. and 2nd p. pl. in Old Germanic, and this carried through to all modern southern dialects of Dutch. Moreover, in most of those dialects 2nd p. sing. merged with 2nd p. plural, which brings the total of similar forms to three. In preterits 3rd p. sing. had, originally, zero ending, 2nd pl. had the same coronal obstruent as was found in the present. In most southern dialects a levelling out has taken place, with zero endings in ‘weak’ preterits both for 3rd sing. and 2nd sing./pl. ‘Strong’ preterit forms have sometimes preserved the original divergent forms, though levelling is found frequently. One complicating factor with the category of strong preterits is the original opposition between the short singular preterit stem form, and the long plural form in some classes of strong verbs. The opposition may have been preserved even if the endings merged, but the other way round (merging of stems, persistence of endings) also occurs. All this leaves us with a dazzling variety of verb form paradigms. This study provides an overview of the geographical distribution of all possibilities, and tries to offer at least a partial explanation. The original coronal ending developed in a variety of ways, depending on such factors as the character of the verb stems (ending in consonant or vowel) and the successive application of several tendencies, such as voicing, weakening/strengthening of articulation, and deletion. We try to get hold of geographical patterns emerging from these developments in sections 2 and 3, treating consonantal and vocal stems respectively. Though the specific forms for either 3rd or 2nd p., or for either singular or plural 2nd p. are rather rare, considering the bulk of verbal forms, they deserve our interest, because they show a variety of interactions: interchange of specific forms as well as specific evolutions on account of either attraction by general patterns or alienation from these. These phenomena are discussed in section 4. As was the case with two preceding articles, the systematic discussion is restricted to data from the Reeks Nederlandse Dialectatlassen, which represents language use in the second and third quarters of the 20th century. It is further limited to the usage in non-inverted word order, barring interesting cases like ‘(dan) kom je = *(then) come you , ‘then you come’).