bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Buka-Tutup Kandang terhadap Kenyamanan dan Kinerja Produksi Sapi Peranakan Ongole (The Effects of Opening and Closing of House on the Ongole Crossbred Cattle’s Comfort and Performances)
Authors: (Panjono) Panjono , Baliarti Endang
Published: April 2016

This experiment was conducted to observe the effects of opening and closing of house on the Ongole Crossbred cattle’s comfort and performances. Nine bulls were divided into three groups of housing. The first group was taken care in the house which was opened in the noon and closed in the night (open-closed house), the second was in the closed house, and the third was in the opened house. The experiment was held for 90 days. The data collected were room condition (wind speed, temperature and humidity), physiological conditions, behaviors, feed and water intake, average daily gain and feed conversion. The data were analyzed by analysis of variance for completely randomized design. The analysis was continued by least significant difference test if there were differences. The result showed that wind’s speed in the open-closed house was significantly higher (P<0.05) than that in the closed house in the noon and significantly lower (P<0.05) than that in the opened house in the night. There was no significantly difference on the room’s temperature among three types of house. Room’s humidity in the open-closed housed was significantly lower (P<0.05) than that in the closed house in the daytime and significantly higher (P<0.05) than that in the opened house in the nighttime. There were no significant difference on the cattle’s physiological conditions, behaviors, physiological conditions, behaviors, feed and water intake, average daily gain and feed conversion among three groups. It was
concluded that opening in the daytime and closing in the nighttime of house had no effect on the Ongole Cross Breed cattle’s comfort and performances.

(Key words: Open-closed house, Comfort, Performance, Ongole crossbred cattle)
Estimasi Parameter Genetik Sifat Pertumbuhan Kambing Boerawa di Kabupaten Tanggamus Propinsi Lampung (Genetic Parameters Estimation on Growth Traits of Boerawa Goat at Tanggamus Regency Lampung Province)
Authors: Beyleto Veronika Yuneriati , (Sumadi) Sumadi , Hartatik Tety
Published: April 2016

This research was conducted to estimate heritability, repeatability and genetic correlation values on growth traits of Boerawa goat at Sumber Rejeki farmer group at Campang Village, Gisting District and Karya Makmur I and Karya Makmur II farmer group at Wonoharjo and Sukoharjo Village, Sumber Rejo District, Tanggamus regency, Lampung province. Data consisted of production record and 238 Boerawa goat derived from 93 PE and 7 Boer buck.
The research was started on October 30, 2009 up to January 30, 2010. The results indicated that heritability value of birth weight, weaning weight, yearling weigth, average of preweaning daily gain, and average of postweaning weight
analyzed by paternal half-sibs correlation were 0.80±0.40; 0.30±0.17; 0.80±0.04; 0.32±0.18 and 0.30±0.17, respectively. The repeatability values of birth weight, weaning weight and yearling weight analyzed based on two
recording per every dam were 0.42±0.07; 0.32±0.08; 0.30±0.08; 0.30±0.08 and 0.53±0.06. The genetic correlation values among birth weight and weaning weight, birth weight and yearling weight, weaning weight and yearling weight,
average of preweaning weight and postweaning weight daily gain analyzed by paternal half-sibs correlation were 0.50±0.04; 0.44±0.08; 0.21±0.03 and 0.20±0.05, respectively. The result also indicated that the heritability and
repeatability values was high and the genetic correlation values were moderate to high.

(Key words: Boerawa goat, Genetic parameter, Growth character)
Curahan Tenaga Kerja Keluarga Transmigran dan Lokal pada Pemeliharaan Sapi Potong di Kabupaten Konawe Selatan, Sulawesi Tenggara (Family Labor Allocation of the Transmigrant and Local Farmers for Cattle Raising in Konawe Selatan Regency, Sulawesi Tenggara
Authors: Sani La Ode Arsad , Santosa Krishna Agung , Ngadiyono Nono
Published: April 2016

Development of cattle raising, especially in the location of transmigration project has been lack of information
on the profile of labor allocation. Thirty transmigrated and 30 local farmers raised ≥3 years old cattle, had experience at least three years which lived in the stratified 10 districts were drawn simple randomly as respondents. The average of man day for family labor allocations of the transmigrated and local farmers was 262.91 and 188.49, respectively. The time allocations for cattle raising of transmigrated and local farmers were attending the cattle 0.315 man-days (43.67%) and 0.344 man-days (66.46%), respectively, followed by forage cut and carry activity 0.264 man-days (36.59%) and 0.090 man-days (17.35%), and other activities 0.142 man-days (19.74%) and 0.084 man-days (16.19%). The average of time allocation for non cattle raising activity of transmigrated farmer (0.73 man-days) was higher (P<0.01) than that of local farmer (0.65 man-days). 1.446 man-days (48.85%) of transmigrated farmer family labor time and 1.169 man-days (37.35%) of local farmers’ family labor time were allocated.

(Key words: Cattle farming, Family labor, Transmigrated farmer, Local farmer)
KAJI BANDING KUALITAS SPERMATOZOA SAPI SIMMENTAL, LIMOUSIN, DAN FRIESIAN HOLSTEIN TERHADAP PROSES PEMBEKUAN
Authors: (Komariah) Komariah , Arifiantini Lis , Nugraha Fachri Widya
Published: April 2016

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mempelajari dan membandingkan kualitas spermatozoa beku sapi Simmental, Limousin, dan Friesian Holstein (FH) di Balai Inseminasi Buatan Lembang (BIB), Bandung, Jawa Barat. Jumlah sapi yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah 24 ekor sapi jantan yang terdiri atas 8 Simmental, 8 Limousin, dan 8 FH berumur 4 tahun dengan kisaran bobot badan 800-900 kg. Penelitian menggunakan data sekunder dan primer BIB Lembang bulan November sampai Desember 2010. Data sekunder yang diambil adalah data motilitas spermatozoa segar meliputi, before freezing (BF), post thawing motility (PTM), longivitas dan data primer yaitu nilai recovery rate. Hasil yang diperoleh dari penelitian adalah motilitas spermatozoa segar dan before freezing sapi Simmental lebih tinggi (P<0,05) dibandingkan sapi Limousin dan FH, sedangkan hasil PTM, longivitas, dan recovery rate tidak berbeda nyata pada ketiga bangsa tersebut.

(Kata kunci: Freezability, Spermatozoa, Simmental, Limousin, Friesian Holstein)
PRODUKTIVITAS KERBAU RAWA DI KECAMATAN MUARA MUNTAI, KABUPATEN KUTAI KARTANEGARA, KALIMANTAN TIMUR
Authors: (Komariah) Komariah , (Kartiarso) Kartiarso , Lita Maria
Published: April 2016

Penelitian yang dilaksanakan di kelompok peternakan kerbau Rawa Teluk Ridan Desa Pulau Harapan, Kecamatan Muara Muntai, Kabupaten Kutai Kartanegara ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji produktivitas kerbau Rawa di Muara Muntai, Kabupaten Kutai Kartanegara. Data produktivitas ditinjau dari aspek produksi dan reproduksi. Aspek produksi diteliti menggunakan 16 ekor kerbau Rawa yang terdiri atas pejantan, induk, anak jantan dan anak betina masing-masing 4 ekor. Rerata bobot badan anak kerbau umur 6–24 bulan adalah 201,58±81,27 kg dan bobot dewasa umur 3–10 tahun adalah 372,66±95,25 kg. Aspek reproduksi diketahui dengan melakukan wawancara. Hasil yang diperoleh adalah sex ratio jantan/betina 1:4, umur birahi pertama 2,6 tahun dengan lama birahi 8 hari dan panjang siklus birahi 18,5 hari. Rerata birahi dan konsepsi pertama terjadi pada umur 2,8 tahun dengan lama kebuntingan 1 tahun. Angka kelahiran dan calf crop kerbau yaitu 75% dan 67%, rerata kematian anak (mortalitas) 11% pada umur prasapih yaitu 1,7 bulan.

(Kata kunci: Kerbau Rawa, Produktivitas, Kabupaten Kutai Kartanegara)
Aprendizagem organizacional e sustentabilidade ambiental: um estudo com as empresas associadas à REDEPETRO-RN
Authors: Da Costa José Marcione , De Rezende Júlio Francisco Dantas
Published: April 2016

O objetivo desta pesquisa consistiu em verificar como as empresas associadas à REDEPETRO-RN estão desenvolvendo competências em sustentabilidade ambiental. A metodologia empregada neste trabalho foi do tipo quantitativo em relação ao processo, exploratório e descritivo quanto aos objetivos, básica no que concerne aos resultados e um estudo de campo quanto a sua modalidade. Os resultados apontaram que as empresas estão se esforçando para desenvolver competências relacionadas à sustentabilidade, tendo como grande influência no processo de desenvolvimento o porte e o número de colaboradores das empresas. A pesquisa ainda mostrou que as principais justificativas para o desenvolvimento de competências em sustentabilidade ambiental são aquelas que afetam em algum momento as questões financeiras das empresas. E, quanto às dificuldades, verificou-se que as questões relacionadas à falta de tempo e o nível de educação/escolaridade dos funcionários são os principais fatores negativos para a aprendizagem organizacional em sustentabilidade ambiental nas empresas associadas à REDEPETRO-RN.
Maximazing the Profitability of Extra Heavy Oil Wells with Cyclic Steam Injection in the Samaria Neogeno Field by Using Injection Profiles Logged Under Extreme Temperatures
Authors: Isidro Torres Ezequiel A. , de Dios Mosqueda Tania Flores , Tapia Garcia Carlos F.
Published: April 2016

Maximizing the return on investment (ROI) of drilling and operating wells is one of the primary objectives of the extra-heavy oil exploitation project in the Neogeno Samaria field. This project pioneers the application of cyclic steam injection as an enhanced oil recovery method in Mexico. One of the keys to achieving this goal has been the acquisition of injection and pressure-temperature profiles logged during phases of the well's operating cycle (initial, injection, soak, production). This data has provided a better understanding (and thus, a more accurate assessment) of the effective distribution of the injected steam in the different sand bodies that make up this fluvio-deltaic depositional environment. In this area, each drilled well might cross several zones with different potential and characteristics, which affect the well's capacity for injected steam admission when the zones are simultaneously stimulated.

Although there are precedents for such operations performed in other countries, the operating conditions of the Samaria project present new technological challenges. Not only does the area have higher temperatures (reaching up to 315°C [600°F]) than other areas where similar projects are run, during this project, steam is injected through the tubing where the tool is run in hole, which affects the performance of the surface pressure control equipment. These problems were addressed with the development of new devices. The logs allowed adjustments to the well completion designs to achieve better distribution of the injected steam and extend the duration of the producing stage. The logs also aided selection of the optimal number of sands to be produced in each well, evaluation of well performance through several cycles of injection, identification of some effects of interference between wells and water/steam channelings, and more applications. This paper reviews some of these applications.
Differences in Hemoglobin A1c Between Hispanics/Latinos and Non-Hispanic Whites: An Analysis of the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos and the 2007–2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Avilés-Santa M. Larissa , Hsu Lucy L. , Arredondo Mario , Menke Andy , Werner Ellen , Thyagarajan Bharat , Heiss Gerardo , Teng Yanping , Schneiderman Neil , Giachello Aida L. , Gallo Linda C. , Talavera Gregory A. , Cowie Catherine C.
Published: April 2016

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether, after adjustment for glycemia and other selected covariates, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) differed among adults from six Hispanic/Latino heritage groups (Central American, Cuban, Dominican, Mexican, Puerto Rican, and South American) and between Hispanic/Latino and non-Hispanic white adults without self-reported diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional analysis of data from 13,083 individuals without self-reported diabetes from six Hispanic/Latino heritage groups, enrolled from 2008 to 2011 in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos, and 2,242 non-Hispanic white adults enrolled during the 2007–2012 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. We compared HbA1c levels among Hispanics/Latinos and between Hispanics/Latinos and non-Hispanic whites before and after adjustment for age, sex, fasting (FPG) and 2-h post–oral glucose tolerance test (2hPG) glucose, anthropometric measurements, and selected biochemical and hematologic variables and after stratification by diabetes status: unrecognized diabetes (FPG ≥7.1 mmol/L or 2hPG ≥11.2 mmol/L), prediabetes (FPG 5.6–7.0 mmol/L or 2hPG 7.8–11.1 mmol/L), and normal glucose tolerance (FPG <5.6 mmol/L and 2hPG <7.8 mmol/L).

RESULTS

Adjusted mean HbA1c differed significantly across all seven groups (P < 0.001). Non-Hispanic whites had significantly lower HbA1c (P < 0.05) than each individual Hispanic/Latino heritage group. Upon stratification by diabetes status, statistically significant differences (P < 0.001) in adjusted mean HbA1c persisted across all seven groups.

CONCLUSIONS

HbA1c differs among Hispanics/Latinos of diverse heritage groups and between non-Hispanic whites and Hispanics/Latinos after adjustment for glycemia and other covariates. The clinical significance of these differences is unknown.
Collaborating on open science: The journey of the Biodiversity Heritage Library
Authors: Smith Jane E. , Rinaldo Constance A.
Published: April 2016

The Biodiversity Heritage Library, BHL, 1 1 http://www.biodiversitylibrary.org/ . is an established and successful digital library, formed by a global consortium of natural history libraries, with engaged and enthusiastic users. The extensive partnerships, curated content, innovative tools and services, the ease of mining the data all combine to establish an open science resource that advances scientific progress through linking, use and reuse. The aim of BHL as stated on the web page is: “Inspiring discovery through free access to biodiversity knowledge. The Biodiversity Heritage Library works collaboratively to make biodiversity literature openly available to the world as part of a global biodiversity community. BHL also serves as the foundational literature component of the Encyclopedia of Life (EOL)”. BHL and EOL are linked via taxonomic names and bibliographies. BHL is linked in a similar way to the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) and thus has broad exposure to scientists across the globe as well as a global public.
Design and optimization of a surface mounted transverse flux permanent magnet machine
Authors: Yao Hongyang , Li Hongmei , Zhou Yanan
Published: April 2016

Transverse flux permanent magnet machine (TFPM) is well known for its achievable high torque density and flexible topologies, which makes it especially suitable for wind power generation, electric vehicle and direct drive area. Existing TFPM topologies, however, are subject to high flux leakage and cogging torque. This paper deals with the design and optimization of a three phase surface mounted transverse flux permanent machine (SM-TFPM) to reduce flux leakage and cogging torque, the solutions of adjusting the interval between magnets and inserting auxiliary stator are suggested to realize the restriction of both flux leakage and cogging torque. The finite element analysis (FEA) results show the obvious effects, and the FEA design is validated via prototype experiment by using TMS320F28335 based controller and induction machine load. Based on the abovementioned researches, a further multi-objective optimization is applied by using differential evolution (DE) algorithm and the optimization results are compared with the previous design to demonstrate the improved performance
Frequency qusai locking and noise reduction of the self-injection qusai locked magnetron
Authors: Zhang Yi , Yuan Ping , Ye Wenjun , Zhu Huacheng , Yang Yang , Huang Kama
Published: April 2016

Magnetrons are widely applied to the rapidly developing microwave industries as high power microwave sources. However, the free-running magnetron produces unstable frequency and wideband spectrum, which limits the magnetron's further applications for coherent power-combining and scientific fields. In this paper, by introducing a feedback loop with a high Q filter into the magnetron system, the output frequency can be qusai locked around the center frequency of the filter if the loop phase is between (2k-12)π and (2k+12)π. Moreover, the output frequency bandwidth of the self-injection magnetron is narrowed and the phase noise is also reduced. In order to find out the requirements for the qusai locked magnetron and the effects of the parameters on the qusai locked results, a theoretical model based on the combination of the equivalent circuit of the magnetron and the transfer function of the filter has been developed. Furthermore, numerical analyses illustrate the effect of the loop phase, Q value and the injection ratio on the output results. The experiments validate the conclusions obtained in the theoretical analyses.
A Study on Generalized Interface in China: The Relational System of Design
Authors: Su Liang-Xing , Yang Zheng , Mager Birgit
Published: April 2016

This paper presents a review of existing research on interface from the perspective of interactive relations. Interface has been discussed within the realm of user experience for some time. The developments of corresponding design rationale and methods have increased recently; however, they are often based on different definitions and varying designs of the respective objects. Understanding what interface is and why it is important to industrial design is the beginning of systematic interface research. The purpose of this study is to review the existing literature in China and summarize objects where consensus exists, while identifying areas for further research. In addition, the relational system of design based on interface theory and service interface based on intangible products are touched upon too. This review shows a clear consensus on the point of differences and similarities among different design objects. In reviewing industrial design, not much work could be found for describing these benefits of design based on the new perspective on the interface. The contributions of interface theory based on a relational system of design can be widely applied in related research and practice. Lastly, the study hopes to highlight the present inconsistencies in the field of industrial design and put forward some critical problems, which could lead to further research into this field.
Integration of Quantum Information Systems in Computer Science and in Electrical Engineering
Authors: Garcia Oscar N. , Bajwa Garima
Published: April 2016

We present a case for the process of including “Quantum Information Systems” as a course (or equivalent material) in the Computer Science and Engineering and in the Electrical Engineering curricula We suggest a challenging outline for an integrated applied science course involving related thermodynamics, information theory and quantum phenomena. As an introductory course, it should have the intellectual motivational appeal of the applied quantum phenomena including those yet to be fully understood. The implications and new approaches to programming quantum computers will face current students within the next five to ten years as new quantum architectures appear in the marketplace. Network communications capacity and the limits of Moore’s law will encourage QIS in a market demanding big-data crunching and security. We emphasize the basic and architectural conditions necessary for special and general purpose computation. While Cloud providers could augment their services by offering special purpose quantum algorithms. Broad applications such as optimization in quantum attached processors, the benefits of overall faster computation will occur only in general purpose architectures requiring quantum storage. The current designs discussed consider some of the QIS implementations possible, with the intention of motivating potential curious students and teachers alike.
A Novel Cellulase Produced by a Newly Isolated Trichoderma virens
Authors: Zeng Rong , Yin Xiao-Yan , Ruan Tao , Hu Qiao , Hou Ya-Li , Zuo Zhen-Yu , Huang Hao , Yang Zhong-Hua
Published: April 2016

Screening and obtaining a novel high activity cellulase and its producing microbe strain is the most important and essential way to improve the utilization of crop straw. In this paper, we devoted our efforts to isolating a novel microbe strain which could produce high activity cellulase. A novel strain Trichoderma virens ZY-01 was isolated from a cropland where straw is rich and decomposed, by using the soil dilution plate method with cellulose and Congo red. The strain has been licensed with a patent numbered ZL 201210295819.6. The cellulase activity in the cultivation broth could reach up to 7.4 IU/mL at a non-optimized fermentation condition with the newly isolated T. virens ZY-01. The cellulase was separated and purified from the T. virens culture broth through (NH4)2SO4 fractional precipitation, anion-exchange chromatography and gel filtration chromatography. With the separation process, the CMC specific activity increased from 0.88 IU/mg to 31.5 IU/mg with 35.8 purification fold and 47.04% yield. Furthermore, the enzymatic properties of the cellulase were investigated. The optimum temperature and pH is 50 °C and pH 5.0 and it has good thermal stability. Zn2+, Ca2+ and Mn2+ could remarkably promote the enzyme activity. Conversely, Cu2+ and Co2+ could inhibit the enzymatic activity. This work provides a new highly efficient T. virens strain for cellulase production and shows good prospects in practical application.
New Features about Tau Function and Dysfunction
Authors: Medina Miguel , Hernández Félix , Avila Jesús
Published: April 2016

Tau is a brain microtubule-associated protein that directly binds to a microtubule and dynamically regulates its structure and function. Under pathological conditions, tau self-assembles into filamentous structures that end up forming neurofibrillary tangles. Prominent tau neurofibrillary pathology is a common feature in a number of neurodegenerative disorders, collectively referred to as tauopathies, the most common of which is Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Beyond its classical role as a microtubule-associated protein, recent advances in our understanding of tau cellular functions have revealed novel insights into their important role during pathogenesis and provided potential novel therapeutic targets. Regulation of tau behavior and function under physiological and pathological conditions is mainly achieved through post-translational modifications, including phosphorylation, glycosylation, acetylation, and truncation, among others, indicating the complexity and variability of factors influencing regulation of tau toxicity, all of which have significant implications for the development of novel therapeutic approaches in various neurodegenerative disorders. A more comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulating tau function and dysfunction will provide us with a better outline of tau cellular networking and, hopefully, offer new clues for designing more efficient approaches to tackle tauopathies in the near future.
A Theoretical Characterization of Curvature Controlled Adhesive Properties of Bio-Inspired Membranes
Authors: Afferante Luciano , Heepe Lars , Casdorff Kirstin , Gorb Stanislav , Carbone Giuseppe
Published: April 2016

Some biological systems, such as the tree frog, Litoria caerulea, and the bush-cricket, Tettigonia viridissima, have developed the ability to control adhesion by changing the curvature of their pads. Active control systems of adhesion inspired by these biological models can be very attractive for the development of devices with controllable adhesive properties. In this paper, we present a theory describing the adhesive behavior of an artificial system consisting of an inflatable membrane clamped to a metallic cylinder and filled with air. In such a system, by controlling the internal pressure acting on the membrane, it is possible to modulate the adhesive strength. In particular, an increase of the internal pressure and, hence, the curvature of the membrane, results in a decrease of the pull-off force. Results predicted by the theoretical model are in good agreement with experimental data. The model explains the apparent contradictory results observed for the thick membrane with zero curvature. In fact, in this case, large pull-off forces should be expected, but zero values are measured due to an initial small misalignment between indenter and membrane, which is not possible to control with precision during the experiments. The present model might help to achieve a better understanding of the adhesion behavior of biological systems and of the fingertips that, in a broad sense, may be regarded as shell-like structures.
Integrated Testing Strategies for Skin Sensitization Hazard and Potency Assessment—State of the Art and Challenges
Authors: Jaworska Joanna
Published: April 2016

The paper provides an overview of existing Integrated Testing Strategies (ITS) for assessing hazard and potency of skin sensitization. The ITS research is active, diverse and constantly evolving as new assays are being developed and new mechanistic insights are discovered. Despite the need to assess potency, the majority of the ITS approaches developed to date assess hazard only. Reasons for this situation are analyzed and include, for example, the dynamic range of existing alternative assays versus the range of in vivo responses, but also sporadic use of kinetic information and molar units. Depending on the application, regulatory or product development, standardized and nonstandard ITS approaches will be developed. Challenges to practical applications, with focus on regulatory are discussed.
Computational Principle and Performance Evaluation of Coherent Ising Machine Based on Degenerate Optical Parametric Oscillator Network
Authors: Haribara Yoshitaka , Utsunomiya Shoko , Yamamoto Yoshihisa
Published: April 2016

We present the operational principle of a coherent Ising machine (CIM) based on a degenerate optical parametric oscillator (DOPO) network. A quantum theory of CIM is formulated, and the computational ability of CIM is evaluated by numerical simulation based on c-number stochastic differential equations. We also discuss the advanced CIM with quantum measurement-feedback control and various problems which can be solved by CIM.
Smart Distribution Systems
Authors: Jiang Yazhou , Liu Chen-Ching , Xu Yin
Published: April 2016

The increasing importance of system reliability and resilience is changing the way distribution systems are planned and operated. To achieve a distribution system self-healing against power outages, emerging technologies and devices, such as remote-controlled switches (RCSs) and smart meters, are being deployed. The higher level of automation is transforming traditional distribution systems into the smart distribution systems (SDSs) of the future. The availability of data and remote control capability in SDSs provides distribution operators with an opportunity to optimize system operation and control. In this paper, the development of SDSs and resulting benefits of enhanced system capabilities are discussed. A comprehensive survey is conducted on the state-of-the-art applications of RCSs and smart meters in SDSs. Specifically, a new method, called Temporal Causal Diagram (TCD), is used to incorporate outage notifications from smart meters for enhanced outage management. To fully utilize the fast operation of RCSs, the spanning tree search algorithm is used to develop service restoration strategies. Optimal placement of RCSs and the resulting enhancement of system reliability are discussed. Distribution system resilience with respect to extreme events is presented. Test cases are used to demonstrate the benefit of SDSs. Active management of distributed generators (DGs) is introduced. Future research in a smart distribution environment is proposed.
Influence of Workpiece Material on Tool Wear Performance and Tribofilm Formation in Machining Hardened Steel
Authors: Yuan Junfeng , Boyd Jeremy , Covelli Danielle , Arif Taib , Fox-Rabinovich German , Veldhuis Stephen
Published: April 2016

In addition to the bulk properties of a workpiece material, characteristics of the tribofilms formed as a result of workpiece material mass transfer to the friction surface play a significant role in friction control. This is especially true in cutting of hardened materials, where it is very difficult to use liquid based lubricants. To better understand wear performance and the formation of beneficial tribofilms, this study presents an assessment of uncoated mixed alumina ceramic tools (Al2O3+TiC) in the turning of two grades of steel, AISI T1 and AISI D2. Both workpiece materials were hardened to 59 HRC then machined under identical cutting conditions. Comprehensive characterization of the resulting wear patterns and the tribofilms formed at the tool/workpiece interface were made using X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy. Metallographic studies on the workpiece material were performed before the machining process and the surface integrity of the machined part was investigated after machining. Tool life was 23% higher when turning D2 than T1. This improvement in cutting tool life and wear behaviour was attributed to a difference in: (1) tribofilm generation on the friction surface and (2) the amount and distribution of carbide phases in the workpiece materials. The results show that wear performance depends both on properties of the workpiece material and characteristics of the tribofilms formed on the friction surface.
Residual Mechanical Properties of Concrete Made with Crushed Clay Bricks and Roof Tiles Aggregate after Exposure to High Temperatures
Authors: Miličević Ivana , Štirmer Nina , Banjad Pečur Ivana
Published: April 2016

This paper presents the residual mechanical properties of concrete made with crushed bricks and clay roof tile aggregates after exposure to high temperatures. One referent mixture and eight mixtures with different percentages of replacement of natural aggregate by crushed bricks and roof tiles are experimentally tested. The properties of the concrete were measured before and after exposure to 200, 400, 600 and 800 °C. In order to evaluate the basic residual mechanical properties of concrete with crushed bricks and roof tiles after exposure to high temperatures, ultrasonic pulse velocity is used as a non-destructive test method and the results are compared with those of a destructive method for validation. The mixture with the highest percentage of replacement of natural aggregate by crushed brick and roof tile aggregate has the best physical, mechanical, and thermal properties for application of such concrete in precast concrete elements exposed to high temperatures.
Oxyresveratrol: Structural Modification and Evaluation of Biological Activities
Authors: Chatsumpun Nutputsorn , Chuanasa Taksina , Sritularak Boonchoo , Lipipun Vimolmas , Jongbunprasert Vichien , Ruchirawat Somsak , Ploypradith Poonsakdi , Likhitwitayawuid Kittisak
Published: April 2016

Oxyresveratrol (2,4,3′,5′-tetrahydroxystilbene, 1), a phytoalexin present in large amounts in the heartwood of Artocarpus lacucha Buch.-Ham., has been reported to possess a wide variety of biological activities. As part of our continuing studies on the structural modification of oxyresveratrol, a library of twenty-six compounds was prepared via O-alkylation, aromatic halogenation, and electrophilic aromatic substitution. The two aromatic rings of the stilbene system of 1 can be chemically modulated by exploiting different protecting groups. Such a strategy allows for selective and exclusive modifications on either ring A or ring B. All compounds were evaluated in vitro for a panel of biological activities, including free radical scavenging activity, DNA protective properties, antiherpetic activity, inhibition of α-glucosidase and neuraminidase, and cytotoxicity against some cancer cell lines. Several derivatives were comparably active or even more potent than the parent oxyresveratrol and/or the appropriate positive controls. The partially etherified analogs 5′-hydroxy-2,3′,4-trimethoxystilbene and 3′,5′-dihydroxy-2,4-dimethoxystilbene demonstrated promising anti-herpetic and DNA protective activities, offering new leads for neuropreventive agent research, whereas 5′-hydroxy-2,3′,4,-triisopropoxystilbene displayed anti-α-glucosidase effects, providing a new lead molecule for anti-diabetic drug development. 3′,5′-Diacetoxy-2,4-diisopropoxystilbene showed potent and selective cytotoxicity against HeLa cancer cells, but the compound still needs further in vivo investigation to verify its anticancer potential.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel 99mTc(CO)3-Labeled Thymidine Analogs as Potential Probes for Tumor Proliferation Imaging
Authors: Duan Xiaojiang , Liu Teli , Zhang Yichun , Zhang Junbo
Published: April 2016

Achieving a 99mTc labeled thymidine radiotracer for single photon emission tomography (SPECT) is considered to be of interest. In this study, four novel thymidine analogs, 6a, 6b, 6c and 6d, were successfully synthesized via “click reaction” route and then radiolabeled using a [99mTc(CO)3]+ core to prepare the corresponding 99mTc(CO)3 complexes in high yields. These complexes were hydrophilic and had good in vitro stability. Biodistribution of these complexes in mice bearing S180 tumors showed that all of them exhibited accumulation in the tumors, suggesting that they would be potential tumor imaging agents.
Insulin Protects Hepatic Lipotoxicity by Regulating ER Stress through the PI3K/Akt/p53 Involved Pathway Independently of Autophagy Inhibition
Authors: Ning Hua , Sun Zongxiang , Liu Yunyun , Liu Lei , Hao Liuyi , Ye Yaxin , Feng Rennan , Li Jie , Li Ying , Chu Xia , Li Songtao , Sun Changhao
Published: April 2016

The detrimental role of hepatic lipotoxicity has been well-implicated in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Previously, we reported that inhibiting autophagy aggravated saturated fatty acid (SFA)-induced hepatotoxicity. Insulin, a physiological inhibitor of autophagy, is commonly increased within NAFLD mainly caused by insulin resistance. We therefore hypothesized that insulin augments the sensitivity of hepatocyte to SFA-induced lipotoxicity. The present study was conducted via employing human and mouse hepatocytes, which were exposed to SFAs, insulin, or their combination. Unexpectedly, our results indicated that insulin protected hepatocytes against SFA-induced lipotoxicity, based on the LDH, MTT, and nuclear morphological measurements, and the detection from cleaved-Parp-1 and -caspase-3 expressions. We subsequently clarified that insulin led to a rapid and short-period inhibition of autophagy, which was gradually recovered after 1 h incubation in hepatocytes, and such extent of inhibition was insufficient to aggravate SFA-induced lipotoxicity. The mechanistic study revealed that insulin-induced alleviation of ER stress contributed to its hepatoprotective role. Pre-treating hepatocytes with insulin significantly stimulated phosphorylated-Akt and reversed SFA-induced up-regulation of p53. Chemical inhibition of p53 by pifithrin-α robustly prevented palmitate-induced cell death. The PI3K/Akt pathway blockade by its special antagonist abolished the protective role of insulin against SFA-induced lipotoxicity and p53 up-regulation. Furthermore, we observed that insulin promoted intracellular TG deposits in hepatocytes in the present of palmitate. However, blocking TG accumulation via genetically silencing DGAT-2 did not prevent insulin-protected lipotoxicity. Our study demonstrated that insulin strongly protected against SFA-induced lipotoxicity in hepatocytes mechanistically through alleviating ER stress via a PI3K/Akt/p53 involved pathway but independently from autophagy.
The Paradigm Shift to Non-Treatment of Asymptomatic Bacteriuria
Authors: Nicolle Lindsay
Published: April 2016

Asymptomatic bacteriuria, also called asymptomatic urinary infection, is a common finding in healthy women, and in women and men with abnormalities of the genitourinary tract. The characterization and introduction of the quantitative urine culture in the 1950s first allowed the reliable recognition of asymptomatic bacteriuria. The observations that a substantial proportion of patients with chronic pyelonephritis at autopsy had no history of symptomatic urinary infection, and the high frequency of pyelonephritis observed in pregnant women with untreated asymptomatic bacteriuria, supported a conclusion that asymptomatic bacteriuria was harmful. Subsequent screening and long term follow-up programs for asymptomatic bacteriuria in schoolgirls and women reported an increased frequency of symptomatic urinary tract infection for subjects with asymptomatic bacteriuria, but no increased morbidity from renal failure or hypertension, or increased mortality. Treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria did not decrease the frequency of symptomatic infection. Prospective, randomized, comparative trials enrolling premenopausal women, children, elderly populations, patients with long term catheters, and diabetic patients consistently report no benefits with antimicrobial treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria, and some evidence of harm. Several studies have also reported that antimicrobial treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria increases the short term risk of pyelonephritis. Current investigations are exploring the potential therapeutic intervention of establishing asymptomatic bacteriuria with an avirulent Escherichia coli strain to prevent symptomatic urinary tract infection for selected patients.
Restrictions to Pharmacy Ownership and Vertical Integration in Estonia—Perception of Different Stakeholders
Authors: Gross Marit , Volmer Daisy
Published: April 2016

Objectives: From 2020, the ownership of community pharmacies in Estonia will be limited to the pharmacy profession, and the vertical integration of wholesale companies and community pharmacies will not be allowed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the perception of different stakeholders in primary healthcare toward the new regulations of the community pharmacy sector in Estonia. Methods: A qualitative electronic survey was distributed to the main stakeholders in primary healthcare and higher education institutions providing pharmacy education (n = 40) in May 2015. For data analysis, the systematic text condensation method was used. Results: The study participants described two opposing positions regarding the development of community pharmacies in the future. Reform supporters emphasized increased professional independence and more healthcare-oriented operation of community pharmacies. Reform opponents argued against these ideas as community pharmacists do not have sufficient practical experience and finances to ensure sustainable development of the community pharmacy sector in Estonia. Conclusion: Based on the current perception of all respondents, the future operation of the community pharmacy sector in Estonia is unclear and there is urgent need for implementation criteria for the new regulations.
Mesogenic Polyelectrolyte Gels Absorb Organic Solvents and Liquid Crystalline Molecules
Authors: Nishikori Yusuke , Iseda Kazuya , Kokado Kenta , Sada Kazuki
Published: April 2016

In this paper, mesogenic polyelectrolyte gels (MPEgels) tethering mesogenic groups on the side chains were synthesized from a mesogenic monomer and ionic monomer via a conventional radical polymerization process. The obtained MPEgels absorbed various organic solvents in a wide range of dielectric constants from chloroform (ε = 7.6) to DMSO (ε = 46.5). The electrostatic repulsion among the polymer chains and the osmotic pressure between the interior and exterior of the MPEgel is responsible for the high swelling ability, revealed by the common ion effect using tetra(n-hexyl)ammonium tetra(3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenylborate (THATFPB). The obtained MPEgels could also absorb liquid crystalline molecules such as 4-cyano-4’-pentylbiphenyl (5CB), analogously caused by the above-mentioned polyelectrolyte characteristic. The MPEgels exhibited liquid crystal transition temperature (TNI) on differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurement, and the increase of the ionic group content lowered TNI. The MPEgels absorbing liquid crystalline molecules exhibited differing TNI, dependent on the compatibility of the mesogenic group on the side chain to the liquid crystalline molecule.
Processing of Polysulfone to Free Flowing Powder by Mechanical Milling and Spray Drying Techniques for Use in Selective Laser Sintering
Authors: Mys Nicolas , Van De Sande Ruben , Verberckmoes An , Cardon Ludwig
Published: April 2016

Polysulfone (PSU) has been processed into powder form by ball milling, rotor milling, and spray drying technique in an attempt to produce new materials for Selective Laser Sintering purposes. Both rotor milling and spray drying were adept to make spherical particles that can be used for this aim. Processing PSU pellets by rotor milling in a three-step process resulted in particles of 51.8 μm mean diameter, whereas spray drying could only manage a mean diameter of 26.1 μm. The resulting powders were characterized using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) and X-ray Diffraction measurements (XRD). DSC measurements revealed an influence of all processing techniques on the thermal behavior of the material. Glass transitions remained unaffected by spray drying and rotor milling, yet a clear shift was observed for ball milling, along with a large endothermic peak in the high temperature region. This was ascribed to the imparting of an orientation into the polymer chains due to the processing method and was confirmed by XRD measurements. Of all processed powder samples, the ball milled sample was unable to dissolve for GPC measurements, suggesting degradation by chain scission and subsequent crosslinking. Spray drying and rotor milling did not cause significant degradation.
The in Vitro and in Vivo Degradation of Cross-Linked Poly(trimethylene carbonate)-Based Networks
Authors: Yang Liqun , Li Jianxin , Li Miao , Gu Zhongwei
Published: April 2016

The degradation of the poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) and poly(trimethylene carbonate-co-ε-caprolactone) (P(TMC-co-CL)) networks cross-linked by 0.01 and 0.02 mol % 2,2′-bis(trimethylene carbonate-5-yl)-butylether (BTB) was carried out in the conditions of hydrolysis and enzymes in vitro and subcutaneous implantation in vivo. The results showed that the cross-linked PTMC networks exhibited much faster degradation in enzymatic conditions in vitro and in vivo versus in a hydrolysis case due to the catalyst effect of enzymes; the weight loss and physical properties of the degraded networks were dependent on the BTB amount. The morphology observation in lipase and in vivo illustrated that enzymes played an important role in the surface erosion of cross-linked PTMC. The hydrolytic degradation rate of the cross-linked P(TMC-co-CL) networks increased with increasing ε-caprolactone (CL) content in composition due to the preferential cleavage of ester bonds. Cross-linking is an effective strategy to lower the degradation rate and enhance the form-stability of PTMC-based materials.
Opening New Gates for the Modification of PVC or Other PVC Derivatives: Synthetic Strategies for the Covalent Binding of Molecules to PVC
Authors: Navarro Rodrigo , Perrino Mónica , García Carolina , Elvira Carlos , Gallardo Alberto , Reinecke Helmut
Published: April 2016

Several synthetic strategies based on the use of substituted aromatic and hetero-aromatic thiols for the covalent binding of modifier compounds to PVC are described. A variety of aliphatic alcohols and amines are linked to the aromatic or heteroaromatic rings via highly active functionalities as the isocyanate, acidchloride, or chlorosulfonyl group, and the three chlorine atoms of trichlorotriazine. The first three pathways lead to protected aromatic disulfides obtaining the substituted aromatic thiols by reduction as a final step of an unprecedented synthetic route. The second approach, in a novel, extremely efficient, and scalable process, uses the particular selectivity of trichlorotriazine to connect aliphatic amines, alcohols, and thiols to the ring and creates the thiol via nucleophilic substitution of a heteroaromatic halogen by thiourea and subsequent hydrolysis. Most of the modifier compounds were linked to the polymer chains with high degrees of anchorage. The presented approaches are highly versatile as different activations of aromatic and heteroaromatic rings are used. Therefore, many types of tailored functional nucleophiles may be anchored to PVC providing non-migrating materials with a broad range of applications and properties.
Estimating the Fractional Vegetation Cover from GLASS Leaf Area Index Product
Authors: Xiao Zhiqiang , Wang Tongtong , Liang Shunlin , Sun Rui
Published: April 2016

The fractional vegetation cover (FCover) is an essential biophysical variable and plays a critical role in the carbon cycle studies. Existing FCover products from satellite observations are spatially incomplete and temporally discontinuous, and also inaccurate for some vegetation types to meet the requirements of various applications. In this study, an operational method is proposed to calculate high-quality, accurate FCover from the Global LAnd Surface Satellite (GLASS) leaf area index (LAI) product to ensure physical consistency between LAI and FCover retrievals. As a result, a global FCover product (denoted by TRAGL) were generated from the GLASS LAI product from 2000 to present. With no missing values, the TRAGL FCover product is spatially complete. A comparison of the TRAGL FCover product with the Geoland2/BioPar version 1 (GEOV1) FCover product indicates that these FCover products exhibit similar spatial distribution pattern. However, there were relatively large discrepancies between these FCover products over equatorial rainforests, broadleaf crops in East-central United States, and needleleaf forests in Europe and Siberia. Temporal consistency analysis indicates that TRAGL FCover product has continuous trajectories. Direct validation with ground-based FCover estimates demonstrated that TRAGL FCover values were more accurate (RMSE = 0.0865, and R2 = 0.8848) than GEOV1 (RMSE = 0.1541, and R2 = 0.7621).
Urban Freight Transport Planning towards Green Goals: Synthetic Environmental Evidence from Tested Results
Authors: Russo Francesco , Comi Antonio
Published: April 2016

This paper reviews the ex-post assessment of city logistics measures implemented in some European cities and, in a “what if” framework, proposes an analysis of tested environmental effects which may be useful in defining city logistics scenarios to be evaluated ex ante by simulation models. The analysis is performed in relation to the goals of environmental sustainability to pursue and the main characteristics of the cities in question (i.e., population and density). The paper aims to provide a tool that could be used in an ex-ante assessment methodology to identify a priori which measures (or set of measures) could best work in a specific city with respect to the environmental sustainability goals to pursue. Future scenarios can, thus, be readily defined and subsequently assessed by simulation tools in order to verify whether they meet the planned objectives. Although all measures can produce considerable environmental effects, the study shows that the choice of their implementation should be driven by the type of pollutant to detect.