bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sintering Behaviors of Carbon Nanotubes—Aluminum Composite Powders
Authors: Chen Biao , Kondoh Katsuyoshi
Published: September 2016

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are promising reinforcements for fabricating aluminum (Al) matrix composites with outstanding properties. The understanding of the consolidation process of CNT–Al composite powders plays a significant role in achieving high performances of bulk composites. In this study, an advanced consolidation technique of spark plasma sintering (SPS) was used to fabricate CNT–Al composites with homogeneously dispersed CNTs. The sintering kinetics of pure Al powders and those powders coated with 1 wt % CNTs were studied. By combining the electrical conductivity and relative density results, it was found that the sintering process consisted of two stages with distinct densification rates. The second stage with a much lower rate was governed by the breaking down of alumina films at primary particle boundaries. The activation energy of the controlling second stage increased by 55% in CNT–Al composite powders compared to that of pure Al powder. As a result, CNT addition led to the overall decrease of sintering ability, which raised a challenge in the processing of CNT–Al composites.
The Effect of Chloride Ions on the Activity of Cerussite Surfaces
Authors: Feng Qicheng , Wen Shuming , Cao Qinbo , Deng Jiushuai , Zhao Wenjuan
Published: September 2016

Chloride ions were found to potentially increase activity of cerussite surfaces. Dissolution experiments, zeta potential measurements, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies, and density functional theory (DFT) computation were conducted in this study. Dissolution experiments showed that the lead ion concentrations in the NaCl solution system were lower than those in the deionized water system and that the lead ion concentrations in NaCl + Na2S aqueous systems decreased by approximately one order of magnitude compared with that in the Na2S system alone. Results of zeta potential measurements revealed that the pretreatment with chloride ions of cerussite caused a more positive zeta potential than that without chloride ions. XPS analysis results indicated that the number of lead ions on the mineral surface increased after cerussite was treated with chloride ions. Results of DFT computation implied that the number of lead atoms on the mineral surface increased and that the activity improved after PbCl+ was adsorbed onto the cerussite surface. The contribution of chloride ions to the activity on the mineral surface is attributed to the increase in the number of active sites and enhancement in the activity of these sites, resulting in improved sulfidization and flotation performance.
A Review on the Terpenes from Genus Vitex
Authors: Yao Jin-Long , Fang Shi-Ming , Liu Rui , Oppong Mahmood , Liu Er-Wei , Fan Guan-Wei , Zhang Han
Published: September 2016

The genus Vitex, which belongs to the Verbenaceae family, includes approximately 250 species. Some species of the genus Vitex have traditionally been used for the treatment of headaches, ophthalmodynia, coughs, asthma, premenopausal syndrome, etc. Chemical investigations indicate that the characteristic constituents of the genus Vitex are terpenes, and 210 of these compounds, including monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, diterpenoids and triterpenoids, have been obtained from 12 species. Pharmacological studies had shown that these terpenes possess anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antibacterial, antioxidant activities, and so on. In this paper, the identity of these terpenes and their pharmacological effects are reviewed, which can provide references for further research regarding the chemistry and utilization of the Vitex species.
Size-Dependent Photodynamic Anticancer Activity of Biocompatible Multifunctional Magnetic Submicron Particles in Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Choi Kyong-Hoon , Nam Ki , Malkinski Leszek , Choi Eun , Jung Jin-Seung , Park Bong
Published: September 2016

In this study, newly designed biocompatible multifunctional magnetic submicron particles (CoFe2O4-HPs-FAs) of well-defined sizes (60, 133, 245, and 335 nm) were fabricated for application as a photosensitizer delivery agent for photodynamic therapy in cancer cells. To provide selective targeting of cancer cells and destruction of cancer cell functionality, basic cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) particles were covalently bonded with a photosensitizer (PS), which comprises hematoporphyrin (HP), and folic acid (FA) molecules. The magnetic properties of the CoFe2O4 particles were finely adjusted by controlling the size of the primary CoFe2O4 nanograins, and secondary superstructured composite particles were formed by aggregation of the nanograins. The prepared CoFe2O4-HP-FA exhibited high water solubility, good MR-imaging capacity, and biocompatibility without any in vitro cytotoxicity. In particular, our CoFe2O4-HP-FA exhibited remarkable photodynamic anticancer efficiency via induction of apoptotic death in PC-3 prostate cancer cells in a particle size- and concentration-dependent manner. This size-dependent effect was determined by the specific surface area of the particles because the number of HP molecules increased with decreasing size and increasing surface area. These results indicate that our CoFe2O4-HP-FA may be applicable for photodynamic therapy (PDT) as a PS delivery material and a therapeutic agent for MR-imaging based PDT owing to their high saturation value for magnetization and superparamagnetism.
The Role of Antimicrobial Peptides in Influenza Virus Infection and Their Potential as Antiviral and Immunomodulatory Therapy
Authors: Hsieh I-Ni , Hartshorn Kevan
Published: September 2016

Influenza A virus (IAV) remains a major threat that can cause severe morbidity and mortality due to rapid genomic variation. Resistance of IAVs to current anti-IAV drugs has been emerging, and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been considered to be potential candidates for novel treatment against IAV infection. AMPs are endogenous proteins playing important roles in host defense through direct antimicrobial and antiviral activities and through immunomodulatory effects. In this review, we will discuss the anti-IAV and immunomodulatory effects of classical AMPs (defensins and cathelicidins), and proteins more recently discovered to have AMP-like activity (histones and Alzheimer’s associated β-amyloid). We will discuss the interactions between AMPs and other host defense proteins. Major emphasis will be placed on novel synthetic AMPs derived from modification of natural proteins, and on potential methods of increasing expression of endogenous AMPs, since these approaches may lead to novel antiviral therapeutics.
Strange Bedfellows: Meditations on the Indispensable Virtues of Confusion, Mindfulness and Humor in the Neuroscientific and Cognitive Study of Esoteric and Contemplative Traditions1
Authors: Ruff Jeffrey
Published: September 2016

Several recent publications in the study of esoteric traditions have drawn together insights from scholars of religions and philosophy, contemplative communities, metaphor and conceptual blend theories, cognitive sciences, neurosciences, and physical anthropology. These interdisciplinary explorations revolve around contemplative practices (meditation, mindfulness, ritual traditions, etc.). This includes both ethnographic and textual expressions of these traditions. This paper is a response to the questions and insights of some recent articles, books, and two 2015 conference papers, with the specific purpose of contributing to what Glen Hayes (2014) called “the need to develop and ‘new vocabulary’ for this interdisciplinary study” of contemplative and esoteric traditions (Hayes’ call was specifically in reference to Hindu Tantra). To do this, I have referred to some other scientific approaches to which the scholars of esoteric and contemplative communities have not made much mention, and then to offer a form of reflection and meditation on what this new vocabulary and these research projects call us to do: their concepts, logic, and meaning. To this end, I have given some careful attention to the concepts of confusion, mindfulness, humor, and dispassionate vulnerability to help us better understand what we are doing, and where we should go from here.
Legal Protection for China’s Traditional Religious Knowledge
Authors: Liu Wenqi
Published: September 2016

Traditional religious knowledge widely incorporates traditional religious expressions and other forms of traditional knowledge, such as ecological knowledge, medicinal knowledge, elements of languages, and so on. Traditional religious knowledge is a subset of cultural heritage, of which the inheritance and spread have attracted considerable attention from the global society. A series of international conventions have been reached to provide an international forum to negotiate the issues concerning the safeguard of traditional cultural knowledge. China has joined several important international conventions. Nowadays, the domestic laws that can be applied in safeguarding traditional religious knowledge include the intellectual property laws, the Law on Intangible Cultural Heritage, and other sui generis rules. Despite considerable achievements, the shortcomings of the existing rules make them insufficient to protect the interests and rights of traditional religious knowledge and prevent its misappropriation. Therefore, China should make further efforts to solve these challenges to optimize the environment for preserving and spreading traditional religious knowledge.
Effect of Sensors on the Reliability and Control Performance of Power Circuits in the Web of Things (WoT)
Authors: Bae Sungwoo , Kim Myungchin
Published: September 2016

In order to realize a true WoT environment, a reliable power circuit is required to ensure interconnections among a range of WoT devices. This paper presents research on sensors and their effects on the reliability and response characteristics of power circuits in WoT devices. The presented research can be used in various power circuit applications, such as energy harvesting interfaces, photovoltaic systems, and battery management systems for the WoT devices. As power circuits rely on the feedback from voltage/current sensors, the system performance is likely to be affected by the sensor failure rates, sensor dynamic characteristics, and their interface circuits. This study investigated how the operational availability of the power circuits is affected by the sensor failure rates by performing a quantitative reliability analysis. In the analysis process, this paper also includes the effects of various reconstruction and estimation techniques used in power processing circuits (e.g., energy harvesting circuits and photovoltaic systems). This paper also reports how the transient control performance of power circuits is affected by sensor interface circuits. With the frequency domain stability analysis and circuit simulation, it was verified that the interface circuit dynamics may affect the transient response characteristics of power circuits. The verification results in this paper showed that the reliability and control performance of the power circuits can be affected by the sensor types, fault tolerant approaches against sensor failures, and the response characteristics of the sensor interfaces. The analysis results were also verified by experiments using a power circuit prototype.
Enhancement of Kinematic Accelerations by Wavenumber Correlation Filtering
Authors: Hong Chang-Ki , Kwon Jay
Published: September 2016

To obtain kinematic accelerations with high accuracy and reliability, multiple Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers with a single antenna can be used for airborne gravimetry. The data collected from each receiver can be processed for kinematic accelerations that may be combined using simple averaging. Here, however, uncorrelated errors from instrument errors in each receiver also will be included that degrade the final solutions. Therefore, in this study, the wavenumber correlation filter (WCF) is applied to extract only the higher positively correlated wavenumber components of the kinematic accelerations for the enhancement of the final solution. The in situ airborne GPS data from two receivers were wavenumber-correlation-filtered to show about 0.07835 Gal improvement in accuracy relative to the solution from the raw kinematic accelerations.
Effects of AlN Coating Layer on High Temperature Characteristics of Langasite SAW Sensors
Authors: Shu Lin , Peng Bin , Cui Yilin , Gong Dongdong , Yang Zhengbing , Liu Xingzhao , Zhang Wanli
Published: September 2016

High temperature characteristics of langasite surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices coated with an AlN thin film have been investigated in this work. The AlN films were deposited on the prepared SAW devices by mid-frequency magnetron sputtering. The SAW devices coated with AlN films were measured from room temperature to 600 °C. The results show that the SAW devices can work up to 600 °C. The AlN coating layer can protect and improve the performance of the SAW devices at high temperature. The SAW velocity increases with increasing AlN coating layer thickness. The temperature coefficients of frequency (TCF) of the prepared SAW devices decrease with increasing thickness of AlN coating layers, while the electromechanical coupling coefficient (K2) of the SAW devices increases with increasing AlN film thickness. The K2 of the SAW devices increases by about 20% from room temperature to 600 °C. The results suggest that AlN coating layer can not only protect the SAW devices from environmental contamination, but also improve the K2 of the SAW devices.
Differences in Reproductive Behavior between Spawning and Non-Spawning Zebrafish Pairs and the Effects of 17α-Ethinylestradiol (EE2)
Authors: Henriksen Per , Beedholm Kristian , Baatrup Erik
Published: September 2016

Reproductive success manifested by spawning and fertilization, in most fish, depends partly on an appropriate courtship behavior by both sexes. The zebrafish reproductive behavior can be resolved in some of its constituent elements by a computerized vision system and described in unbiased quantitative terms. Pairs of adult male and female zebrafish were monitored with automatic video tracking at 16 Hz for 45 min in a tank with a spawning area in one corner. Subsequently, spawning, if any, was registered and the swimming behavior and mutual interactions of the two fish were quantified. Further, temporal and frequency distributions of average velocity and turning rate were produced. It is demonstrated that the courtship behavior in spawning pairs differs markedly from non-spawning pairs with differences in both male and female behavior. EE2 (17α-ethinylestradiol), a contraceptive hormone found in aquatic environments, has only a slight effect on these behavior differences between spawning and non-spawning pairs.
Warm Inflation
Authors: Grøn Øyvind
Published: September 2016

I show here that there are some interesting differences between the predictions of warm and cold inflation models focusing in particular upon the scalar spectral index n s and the tensor-to-scalar ratio r. The first thing to be noted is that the warm inflation models in general predict a vanishingly small value of r. Cold inflationary models with the potential V = M 4 ( ϕ / M P ) p and a number of e-folds N = 60 predict δ n s C ≡ 1 − n s ≈ ( p + 2 ) / 120 , where n s is the scalar spectral index, while the corresponding warm inflation models with constant value of the dissipation parameter Γ predict δ n s W = [ ( 20 + p ) / ( 4 + p ) ] / 120 . For example, for p = 2 this gives δ n s W = 1.1 δ n s C . The warm polynomial model with Γ = V seems to be in conflict with the Planck data. However, the warm natural inflation model can be adjusted to be in agreement with the Planck data. It has, however, more adjustable parameters in the expressions for the spectral parameters than the corresponding cold inflation model, and is hence a weaker model with less predictive force. However, it should be noted that the warm inflation models take into account physical processes such as dissipation of inflaton energy to radiation energy, which is neglected in the cold inflationary models.
Evaluation of Maximum a Posteriori Estimation as Data Assimilation Method for Forecasting Infiltration-Inflow Affected Urban Runoff with Radar Rainfall Input
Authors: Pedersen Jonas , Lund Nadia , Borup Morten , Löwe Roland , Poulsen Troels , Mikkelsen Peter , Grum Morten
Published: September 2016

High quality on-line flow forecasts are useful for real-time operation of urban drainage systems and wastewater treatment plants. This requires computationally efficient models, which are continuously updated with observed data to provide good initial conditions for the forecasts. This paper presents a way of updating conceptual rainfall-runoff models using Maximum a Posteriori estimation to determine the most likely parameter constellation at the current point in time. This is done by combining information from prior parameter distributions and the model goodness of fit over a predefined period of time that precedes the forecast. The method is illustrated for an urban catchment, where flow forecasts of 0–4 h are generated by applying a lumped linear reservoir model with three cascading reservoirs. Radar rainfall observations are used as input to the model. The effects of different prior standard deviations and lengths of the auto-calibration period on the resulting flow forecast performance are evaluated. We were able to demonstrate that, if properly tuned, the method leads to a significant increase in forecasting performance compared to a model without continuous auto-calibration. Delayed responses and erratic behaviour in the parameter variations are, however, observed and the choice of prior distributions and length of auto-calibration period is not straightforward.
Web-Based BFlow System for the Assessment of Streamflow Characteristics at National Level
Authors: Jung Younghun , Shin Yongchul , Won Nam-Il , Lim Kyoung
Published: September 2016

Distinct seasonal characteristics of monsoon climate significantly affect river streamflow in South Korea. The roles of direct runoff and baseflow on streamflow have become more important to ecosystems and human communities in various watersheds of South Korea. Understanding river characteristics, including direct runoff and baseflow, is the first step of river management and can make a significant contribution to maintaining a sustainable and effective river environment. In this regard, this study involves twin objectives: (1) developing the web-based BFlow system to gain advantages in the time and effort required relative to the DOS (Disk Operation System)-based BFlow program; and (2) assessing the contributions of baseflow and direct runoff to streamflow for river management at the national level. For this, we investigated all streamflow gauge stations in South Korea and, then, used the BFlow program to separate baseflow from the available streamflow data. The results showed that baseflow index for 254 streamflow gauge stations ranged from 0.28 to 0.89. Gauge stations with a baseflow index greater than 0.5 accounted for 64% of total stations. The web-based system developed in this study is a more MS (Microsoft) user-friendly version of BFlow. Furthermore, this study illustrated that high baseflow indexes were generally found at gauge stations with a low coefficient of variation of streamflow. The web-based BFlow system will provide understanding to strategically control rivers and improve the efficiency and safety of river management at the national level.
Tracing Nitrate-Nitrogen Sources and Modifications in a Stream Impacted by Various Land Uses, South Portugal
Authors: Yevenes Mariela , Soetaert Karline , Mannaerts Chris
Published: September 2016

The identification of nitrate-nitrogen (NO3–N) origin is important in the control of surface and ground water quality. These are the main sources of available drinking water. Stable isotopes (15N and 18O) for NO3–N and along with a 1-D reactive transport model were used to study the origin and processes that lead to nitrogen transformation and loss in a major stream that flows into a reservoir within an intensively cultivated catchment area (352 km2) in Alentejo-Portugal. Seasonal water samples (October–November 2008, March 2009 and September 2009) of stream surface water, wells and sediment pore water were collected. The results showed consistently increasing isotope values and decreasing NO3–N concentrations downstream. During winter (wet period, November 2008 and March 2009) slightly higher NO3–N concentrations were found in comparison to early fall (dry period: October 2008) and summer (dry period: September 2009). Isotopic composition of 15N and 18O values in surface water samples from the stream and wells indicated that the dominant NO3–N sources were derived mainly from the soil and fertilizers. There was also significant nitrification in surface water at the head of the stream. Sediment pore waters showed high NO3–N values near the sediment-water interface (reaching 25 mg·N·L−1) and NO3–N concentrations sharply decreasing with sediment depth, suggesting significant NO3–N consumption. Denitrification was also detected using the 15N signature in upstream waters, but not downstream where very low NO3–N levels were measured. In the stream, the calculated isotopic enrichment factor for NO3–N was −2.9‰ for 15N and −1.78 for 18O, this indicates that denitrification accounts for 7.8% to 48% of nitrate removal.
Serum IL-10, MMP-7, MMP-9 Levels in Helicobacter pylori Infection and Correlation with Degree of Gastritis
Authors: Siregar Gontar , Halim Sahat , Sitepu Ricky
Published: September 2016

AIM: Helicobacter pylori causes gastric mucosal inflammation and immune reaction. However, the increase of IL-10, MMP-7, and MMP-7 levels in the serum is still controversial. The objective of this study was to investigate the serum levels of IL-10, MMP-7 & MMP-9 in gastritis patients with H. pylori infection.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was done on seventy gastritis patients that consecutive admitted to endoscopy units. The diagnosis of gastritis was made based on histopathology and diagnosis of H. pylori infection was based on rapid urease test. Serum samples were obtained to determine to circulate IL-10, MMP-7, and MMP-9 level. Univariate and bivariate analysis were done by SPSS version 22.RESULTS: Forthy percentages of the patients were infected with H. pylori. The IL-10 level was significantly higher in H. pylori-infected patients compared to non-infected patients. However, there were no differences between serum levels of MMP-7 and MMP-9 in infected and non-infected H. pylori patients.CONCLUSIONS: The immune response to H. pylori promotes systemic inflammation, which was reflected by the increased levels of serum IL-10. However, there were no significant differences in MMP-7 and MMP-9 serum levels between positive and negative infected H. pylori patients.
An Updated Mini Review of Vitamin D and Obesity: Adipogenesis and Inflammation State
Authors: Hamid Mehmood Zujaja-Tul-Noor , Papandreou Dimitrios
Published: September 2016

Vitamin D related research continues to expand and theorise regarding its involvement in obesity, as both hypovitaminosis D and obesity strike in pandemic proportions. Vitamin D plays an important role in immune system through Vitamin D Receptors (VDR), which are transcription factors located abundantly in the body. Due to this characteristic, it is potentially linked to obesity, which is a state of inflammation involving the release of cytokines from adipose tissue, and exerting stress on other organs in a state of positive energy balance. Research trials in the past couple of years and systematic reviews from SCOPUS and MEDLINE will be discussed. The role of Vitamin D throughout the lifespan (from fetal imprinting until older age), and in various other obesity mediated chronic conditions shall be highlighted. Various mechanisms attributed to the inverse relationship of Vitamin D and obesity are discussed with research gaps identified, particularly the role of adipokines, epigenetics, calcium and type of adipose tissue.
Argentine : qu’est-ce que le kirchnérisme ?
Authors: Velut Sébastien
Published: September 2016

Nestor et Cristina Kirchner ont présidé l’Argentine de 2003 à 2015, durée exceptionnelle dans l’histoire politique du pays. Cette continuité permet-elle de définir un mouvement comme le kirchnérisme, qui a évolué en fonction de la conjoncture internationale et des recompositions des alliances politiques ? Si sa continuité politique demeure incertaine, on peut le caractériser par trois articulations principales qui révèlent la portée et les limites de ce projet politique.
Supplementation with Lactobacillus rhamnosus SP1 normalises skin expression of genes implicated in insulin signalling and improves adult acne
Authors: Fabbrocini G. , Bertona M. , Picazo Ó. , Pareja-Galeano H. , Monfrecola G. , Emanuele E.
Published: September 2016

Systemic supplementation with probiotics is increasingly being explored as a potential treatment strategy for skin disorders. Because both the gut-skin axis and dysregulation of insulin signalling have been implicated in the pathogenesis of adult acne, we designed the current study to evaluate the effect of supplementation with the probiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus SP1 (LSP1) on skin expression of genes involved in insulin signalling and acne improvement in adult subjects. A pilot, randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study was conducted with 20 adult subjects (14 females and 6 males; mean age: 33.7±3.3 years) with acne. Over a 12-week period, the probiotic group (n=10) consumed a liquid supplement containing LSP1 at a dose of 3×109 cfu/day (75 mg/day), whereas the placebo group (n=10) received a liquid lacking probiotics. Paired skin biopsies – one obtained before treatment initiation and one obtained at the end of the 12-week treatment period – were analysed for insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and forkhead box protein O1 (FOXO1) gene expression. The clinical criterion for efficacy was the investigator's global improvement rating on a five-point scale. Compared with baseline, the probiotic group showed a 32% (P<0.001) reduction, as well as a 65% increase (P<0.001) in IGF1 and FOXO1 gene expression in the skin, respectively. No such differences were observed in the placebo group. Patients in the probiotic group had an adjusted odds ratio of 28.4 (95% confidence interval = 2.2-411.1, P<0.05) to be rated by physicians as improved/markedly improved (versus worsened or unchanged) compared with the placebo group. We conclude that supplementation with the probiotic strain LSP1 normalises skin expression of genes involved in insulin signalling and improves the appearance of adult acne.
Development and inter-laboratory study of a method for quantifying zearalenone in pet foods
Authors: Nomura M. , Wada T. , Ishibashi T. , Komoriya T. , Nagahara T. , Chihara T.
Published: September 2016

An analytical method for quantifying zearalenone (ZEA) in pet foods using a liquid chromatograph-atmospheric pressure chemical ionization-mass spectrometer (LC-APCI-MS) was developed, and an inter-laboratory study was conducted. ZEA was extracted from pet food samples with aqueous acetonitrile. The extract was purified using a multifunctional column, MultiSep 226 Aflazon+, and analysed with LC-APCI-MS. The limit of quantification of ZEA by this method was estimated to be 0.2 mg/kg for dry and semi-dry pet foods, and 0.1 mg/kg for wet pet food. The calibration curve of ZEA for this method showed linearity in the range of 0.1-10 ng of ZEA (0.01-1.0 µg/ml, 0.04-4.0 mg/kg matrix). The mean recoveries, repeatabilities, reproducibilities, and the HorRats for ZEA from the inter-laboratory validation study were 99.0-102%, 2.2-3.0%, 5.6-6.6%, and 0.33-0.36, respectively.
Diet contaminated with ochratoxin A at the highest level allowed by EU recommendation disturbs liver metabolism in weaned piglets
Authors: Marin D.E. , Motiu M. , Pistol G.C. , Gras M.A. , Israel-Roming F. , Calin L. , Stancu M. , Taranu I.
Published: September 2016

Ochratoxins, are toxic fungal metabolites produced by certain moulds of the generaAspergillus andPenicillium that grow on a wide range of raw food commodities. The most relevant toxin is ochratoxin A (OTA) and the European Commission has established guidance values for OTA concerning complementary and complete feeding stuff recommending that for pigs a maximum concentration of 0.05 mg/kg. These guidance values represent only a recommendation of the Commission and the establishment of a legal regulation needs additional toxicological data generated from farm animal experiments. The aim of this paper was to investigate the effect of OTA – at the recommended EU guidance value of 0.05 mg/kg – on liver health. For this purpose, twelve crossbred, weaned piglets were fed for 33 days a maize-soybean-meal-based diet contaminated or not with 0.05 mg/kg OTA. Blood plasma samples were collected at the end of this period and subjected to biochemical analyses, whereas liver samples were analysed for cytokine concentration (ELISA), enzyme activity and expression of selected genes (qRT-PCR) involved in liver metabolism. Exposure to OTA resulted in a significant decrease in the concentrations of total protein, albumin and nitric oxide in plasma, and interleukin-6 in the liver. OTA exposure also resulted in a significant increase of alanine aminotransferase and triglycerides in plasma and of superoxide dismutase in the liver. In conclusion, the administration of 0.05 mg/kg of OTA, to weaned piglets for a period of 33 days caused measurable hepatocellular injury in the toxin-exposed. Additionalin vivo studies should be performed with larger numbers of animals in order to confirm our results and to provide robust data for the establishment of safe concentrations of OTA in swine feeds.
Impact of interacting climate change factors on growth and ochratoxin A production byAspergillus sectionCircumdati andNigri species on coffee
Authors: Akbar A. , Medina A. , Magan N.
Published: September 2016

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effect of interacting climate change (CC) factors (water stress [water activity, aw; 0.99-0.90]); temperature [30, 35 °C]; and elevated CO2 [400 and 1000 ppm] on (1) lag phases prior to growth, (2) growth and (3) ochratoxin A (OTA) production by species ofAspergillus sectionsCircumdati andNigri on coffee-based media and stored coffee beans. The lag phases, prior to growth, of all strains/species were slightly increased as aw, temperature and CO2 were modified. The interacting CC factors showed that most strains/species examined grew well at 30 °C and slightly less so at 35 °C except forAspergillus niger (A 1911) which could tolerate the higher temperature. In addition, the interaction of elevated CO2 (1000 ppm) + temperature (35 °C) increased OTA production when compared with 30 °C but only for strains ofAspergillus westerdijkiae (B2),Aspergillus ochraceus (ITAL 14) andAspergillus steynii (CBS 112814). Most of the strains had optimum growth at 0.95 aw at 35 °C, while at 30 °C the optimum was at 0.98 aw. On stored coffee beans there was only a significant stimulation of OTA production byA. westerdijkiae strains in elevated CO2 (1000) at 0.90 aw. These results suggest differential effects of CC factors on OTA production by species in the SectionsCircumdati andNigri in stored coffee and that for most species there is a reduction in toxin production.
Integrating gene expression, ecology and mycotoxin production byFusarium andAspergillus species in relation to interacting environmental factors
Authors: Magan N. , Medina A.
Published: September 2016

Environmental factors, such as water availability (water activity, aw), temperature and their interactions, have a significant impact on the life cycle of mycotoxigenic fungi. Growth and mycotoxin production are influenced by these interacting factors resulting in a broader range of aw × temperature conditions for germination, than growth or mycotoxin production. The biosynthetic genes are mostly clustered together and by using microarrays with sub-arrays for specific mycotoxins, such as trichothecenes, fumonisins and aflatoxins it has been possible to examine the relationship between interacting aw × temperature conditions on growth, toxin gene cluster expression and relate these to phenotypic toxin production. The data for groups of biosynthetic genes (Fusarium culmorum/Fusarium graminearum;Fusarium verticillioides;Aspergillus flavus) were integrated with data on growth and mycotoxin production under different aw × temperature conditions using a mixed growth model. This was used to correlate these factors and predict toxin levels which may be produced under different abiotic stress conditions. Indeed, the relative importance of the different genes could be examined using ternary diagrams of the relative expression of 3 genes at a time in relation to aw, temperature and mycotoxin production to identify the most important relationships. The effect of three-way interacting environmental factors representative of climate change (CC) scenarios (water stress × temperature (+2-4 °C) × elevated CO2 (350-400 vs 650 and 1000 ppm) on growth and mycotoxin production byA. flavus and by species of theAspergillus sectionCircumdati and sectionNigri have been determined. These studies on maize grain and coffee, respectively, suggest that while growth may not be significantly affected, mycotoxin production may be stimulated by CC factors. This approach to integrate such data sets and model the relationships could be a powerful tool for predicting the relative toxin production under extreme stress conditions, including CC scenarios.
Management of Relocation in Cognitively Intact Older Adults
Authors: Hertz Judith E. , Koren Mary Elaine , Rossetti Jeanette , Tibbits Kathryn
Published: September 2016

Relocation, a major life transition that can affect health positively and negatively, is moving from one permanent home to another. Many older adults will relocate at some time during their life. Relocation is also a complex process that requires careful consideration and planning before the move (i.e., pre-location) and adjustment to the new home after the move (i.e., post-relocation). The current article is a summary of content based on a comprehensive evidence-based practice guideline focused on management of relocation in cognitively intact older adults. The guideline was designed to be used across diverse settings by nurses and other providers. Pre-relocation guidelines include assessment for the need for relocation, interventions prior to moving, and outcomes for evaluation of the pre-relocation process. For post-relocation, content focuses on assessment of risks for not adjusting after the move as well as intervention guidelines to promote adjustment and outcomes for evaluation. Implications include advocacy for older adults by using the guideline, disseminating it, and conducting future research. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 42
(11), 14–23.]
Bilateral Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) After Penetrating Keratoplasty
Authors: Kim Bu Ki , Mun Su Joung , Lee Dae Gyu , Chung Young Taek
Published: September 2016

PURPOSE:

To report a case of successful bilateral small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) performed on a patient who had penetrating keratoplasty and astigmatic keratotomy in the right eye and penetrating keratoplasty in the left eye.

METHODS:

Case report.

RESULTS:

Astigmatic keratotomy was used to reduce astigmatism of the right eye because astigmatism was higher than the maximum correction limitation of SMILE. Bilateral SMILE was performed afterward. Although there were no difficulties during lenticule separation and removal of the right eye, wound dehiscence occurred during lenticule separation of the left eye. Two sutures were used at both ends of the incision, and the remainder of the procedure was successfully completed. Visual acuity improved to 20/50 in both eyes without correction, and the corrected distance visual acuities were 20/50 and 20/30 in the right and left eyes, respectively, at the 6-month postoperative visit.

CONCLUSIONS:

SMILE is a potentially effective alternative in correcting refractive errors in patients following penetrating keratoplasty. However, studies with a larger patient population with longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm these initial findings.

[
J Refract Surg.
2016;32(9):644–647.]
Q-optimized Algorithms: Theoretical Analysis of Factors Influencing Visual Quality After Myopic Corneal Refractive Surgery
Authors: Jiménez José R. , Alarcón Aixa , Anera Rosario G. , Jiménez del Barco Luis
Published: September 2016

PURPOSE:

To model the effect of pupil size, optical zone, and initial myopic level on the retinal image quality after Q-optimized myopic corneal refractive surgery.

METHODS:

Different Q-optimized and paraxial Munnerlyn algorithms were tested using a schematic myopic eye model to analyze the optical quality of the final retinal image for initial myopic errors from −1.00 to −7.00 diopters (D). Different optical zones (5.5, 6, and 6.5 mm in diameter) and two pupil diameters (5 and 7 mm, mesopic-scotopic conditions) were included in the comparison. Modulation transfer function (MTF) and area under the MTF from 0 to 60 cycles per degree (MTFa) were calculated by ray tracing to evaluate this retinal image quality.

RESULTS:

The Q-optimized algorithm with Q = −0.45 provided the highest MTF and MTFa results for myopic corrections less than −5.00 D. For refractive errors greater than −5.00 D, Q = −0.26 provided the highest MTF and MTFa results.

CONCLUSIONS:

Q-optimized algorithms improve the visual outcomes with respect to the paraxial Munnerlyn algorithm for myopic corneal surgery. The results show that the Q value that optimizes the results of the Q-optimized algorithm depends on the degree of myopia to correct and the size of the pupil.

[
J Refract Surg.
2016;32(9):612–617.]
Epithelial Thickness Profile Change After Combined Topography-Guided Transepithelial Photorefractive Keratectomy and Corneal Cross-linking in Treatment of Keratoconus
Authors: Chen Xiangjun , Stojanovic Aleksandar , Wang Xiaorui , Liang Jing , Hu Di , Utheim Tor Paaske
Published: September 2016

PURPOSE:

To evaluate corneal epithelial remodeling after topography-guided transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) combined with corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) in the treatment of keratoconus.

METHODS:

Retrospective analysis of the epithelial thickness distribution changes in 53 keratoconic eyes of 44 patients. Manifest refraction, maximum (K
max
) and minimum (K
min
) keratometry obtained by Placido topography, corneal irregularity index (IRI) measured by Scheimpflug topography, and the epithelial thickness profile over the central 5-mm zone obtained by anterior-segment spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) were evaluated preoperatively and at 1 to 3, 3 to 6, and more than 6 months postoperatively.

RESULTS:

Preoperatively, the epithelial thickness at the thinnest area (Min
Area
) was 48.8 ± 4.4
µ
m, correlating negatively with K
max
(
r
= −0.310,
P
< .05) and IRI (
r
= −0.362,
P
< .05). At more than 6 months postoperatively, epithelial thickening of 5.5 ± 5.1
µ
m occurred at the thinnest area (Min
Area
). There was no significant change in the epithelial thickness in other areas, resulting in a decrease of difference in epithelial thickness between Min
Area
and the rest of the paracentral areas of 5.5 ± 4.3
µ
m. Corrected distance visual acuity, refractive astigmatism, K
max
, K
min
, and IRI all improved after the treatment (
P
< .05).

CONCLUSIONS:

A significant epithelial thickness profile change occurred after the treatment due to an increase in thickness at the preoperatively thinnest area. Because the thickness in other areas remained largely unchanged, the treatment resulted in a more even epithelial thickness distribution. This may be attributed to regularized postoperative corneal stromal shape.

[
J Refract Surg.
2016;32(9):626–634.]
Material Analysis of Spontaneously Subluxated Iris-Fixated Phakic Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Tandogan Tamer , Holzer Mike P. , Choi Chul Young , Auffarth Gerd U. , Gerten Georg , Khoramnia Ramin
Published: September 2016

PURPOSE:

To conduct a material analysis of spontaneously subluxated iris-fixated phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs) using light and scanning electron microscopy.

METHODS:

Six explanted Artisan/Verisyse and Artiflex/Veriflex IOLs (Ophtec, Groningen, Netherlands/AMO, Santa Ana, CA) were analyzed in a laboratory using light and scanning electron microscopy. Four of the IOLs had been explanted after spontaneous subluxation leading to a decrease in visual acuity, whereas the remaining two IOLs did not demonstrate signs of disenclavation but had been explanted in the course of planned cataract surgery and thus served as the control in this study.

RESULTS:

Light microscopy enabled the detection of clear deformations of the fixation arms on one or both haptics of the lens that had subluxated, and scanning electron microscopy revealed micro-cracks in the material. The deformations, which appeared to have been caused by some form of manipulation of the fixation arms, meant that adequate closure of the fixation arms was no longer possible and a reliable fixation in the iris stroma was unattainable. At least three of the lenses had been implanted with the use of an IOL haptic expander for enclavation, which may have contributed to the malformation of the haptics. The two control lenses exhibited no signs of material deformation or subsequent disenclavation.

CONCLUSIONS:

Deformations of the haptics of iris-fixated phakic IOLs can cause irreversible damage leading to disenclavation and inadequate re-enclavation. In such cases, explantation appears to be the only therapeutic option. It is important to adhere to an appropriate implantation technique to reduce the risk of spontaneous subluxation.

[
J Refract Surg.
2016;32(9):618–624.]
Garaje de Augsburgo
Authors: Editorial Equipo
Published: September 2016

El problema del aparcamiento no puede resolverse con una idea universal patentada, ya que cada país, cada ciudad, aun teniendo necesidades comunes en el fondo, necesitan solucionar "su aparcamiento", especialmente cuando se trata de edificios de estacionamiento.
Iglesia neo-apostólica en Hamburgo
Authors: Hirte Theo
Published: September 2016

Cerca del mercado de Eppendorf, en Hamburgo, se levanta la mayor iglesia neoapostolica de la Alemania Occidental, capaz para 1.500 personas.
Gimnasio Sebastiani. Holy trinity high school - Trinidad, Colorado
Authors: C. Toll Henry
Published: September 2016

Para completar las instalaciones y facilidades de que se ha dotado el Instituto Católico de Segunda Enseñanza de Trinidad, Colorado (Estados Unidos), se proyectó un gimnasio cubierto que podría ser utilizado como campo de deportes para baloncesto, representaciones, audiciones y actos públicos. El proyecto fue redactado por Toll & Milan, arquitectos, entidad disuelta actualmente y de la que el autor formaba parte como proyectista. En la formación de este proyecto se utilizaron las recomendaciones de un buen número de gabinetes de estudio y consulta.
Villa de la madre y el niño – Milán
Authors: Scarzella Mazzocchi Alberto
Published: September 2016

La Villa de la Madre y el Niño marca una nueva etapa en la arquitectura italiana, ya que es el resultado de un trabajo concebido y madurado por un equipo de arquitectos, médicos y sociólogos para, así, lograr una mayor efectividad en la resolución de problemas tan complejos como son la construcción de edificios con fines sociales.
Nuevo estadio, en Barcelona
Authors: Soteras Mauri J. , Mitjans Miró J. , García-Barbón Fernández de Henestrosa L.
Published: September 2016

El fútbol, en su paso de deporte a espectáculo deportivo, ha traído, como consecuencia, un mayor arrastre de las masas hacia' los recintos de juego. Debido a ello, todos los clubs españoles se han visto en la necesidad de ampliar o construir de nuevo sus instalaciones deportivas para poder albergar a esta ingente riada de espectadores. El Club de Fútbol Barcelona ha terminado recientemente la primera fase de su nuevo estadio con un aforo provisional de noventa mil espectadores y que, cuando esté acabado, tendrá capacidad para ciento cincuenta mil; o sea: será uno de los mayores del mundo. El proyecto ha sido estudiado minuciosamente, no sólo en esencia, sino en potencia, ya que el nuevo estadio Gamper se ha incorporado a la panorámica de la ciudad como uno de sus elementos característicos por razón de su masa, aislamiento y singularidad.
Cubierta parabólico-hiperbólica de madera
Authors: Townsend Robert
Published: September 2016

Para la instalación de telares de grandes dimensiones, dedicados a la fabricación de alfombras, se ha construido un edificio industrial, discrepando netamente, por su forma y concepción, con todas las edificaciones que le rodean.
Nave industrial, en Leith
Authors: Spence Basil , Kinnear - , Gordon -
Published: September 2016

La nueva factoría de productos químicos de la Scottish Agricultural Industries, situada en Escocia, en la localidad de Leith (Inglaterra), y en la zona de las instalaciones portuarias, ya que la mayor parte de las materias primas que se emplean en las distintas transformaciones y procesos químicos se reciben por mar, fue proyectada por el arquitecto Basil Spence en colaboración con los ingenieros Kinnear y Gordon.
Nave agrícola – Brasil
Authors: Levi Rino , Cerqueira Cesar Roberto
Published: September 2016

Recientemente se ha realizado el proyecto de ejecución de una amplia nave dedicada a garaje, aparcamiento y conservación de maquinaria móvil agrícola en San José Dos Campos (Brasil).
Ópera de Colonia
Authors: Riphahn Wilhelm
Published: September 2016

No disponible
Hotel Delta
Authors: Boks Ir. J. W. C.
Published: September 2016

Vlaardingen, el tercer puerto de los Países Bajos en la Meuse, cerca de Rotterdam, al oeste de esta ciudad, es una ciudad que se desarrolla rápidamente. Este crecimiento fué debido, principalmente, al desarrollo industrial de la región.
Ampliación de oficinas – Barcelona
Authors: Barba Corsini J.
Published: September 2016

La Sociedad propietaria de estas oficinas es una importante Empresa textil de hilados que experimenta la normal necesidad de expansión, razón por la cual ha habido que acondicionar para despachos una parte de los locales del almacén.
Prefabricación
Authors: Editorial Equipo
Published: September 2016

No disponible
Factoría Eternit
Authors: Waltenspuhl Paul , Arno J.
Published: September 2016

A pesar de las sucesivas ampliaciones que ha venido realizando la firma comercial de productos de amianto-cemento Eternit en su factoría de Niederurnen, y como consecuencia del natural aumento de su producción, había llegado un momento en que sus instalaciones resultaron insuficientes para poder atender las demandas de sus usuarios, seis veces superiores a las del año 1939.
Estación incineradora - Lausana
Authors: Béboux E. , Monneyron M.
Published: September 2016

En esta obra que presentamos, el carácter arquitectónico y constructivo de la misma ha quedado empañado por su carácter significativo. En una palabra, el proyecto —el juego de volúmenes, los materiales empleados, su composición estética...— ha pasado a un segundo plano ante la esencia del mismo.
Aeropuerto internacional de Nueva York
Authors: Editorial Equipo
Published: September 2016

En 1940, los campos de golf de Idlewild ocupaban un lugar tranquilo junto a las plácidas aguas de la bahía de Jamaica y a 15 millas del corazón de Manhattan. Hoy, al cabo de veinte años, esta tranquilidad del deporte del "Stick" se ha transformado en vertiginosa actividad, y las calles por las que, antes circulaba lentamente una bolita en busca de su agujero, se han convertido en amplias pistas que reciben y despiden un avión cada treinta segundos.