bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Krill oil, vitamin D and Lactobacillus reuteri cooperate to reduce gut inflammation
Authors: Costanzo M. , Cesi V. , Palone F. , Pierdomenico M. , Colantoni E. , Leter B. , Vitali R. , Negroni A. , Cucchiara S. , Stronati L.
Published: April 2018

Current research into original therapies to treat intestinal inflammation is focusing on no-drug therapies. KLD is a mixture of krill oil (KO), probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri (LR), and vitamin D (VitD3). The aim of this study was to assess in vitro and in vivo the potential cooperative effects of KLD in reducing gut inflammation. Colorectal adenocarcinoma cell lines, CACO2 and HT29, and C57BL/6 mice were used for in vitro and in vivo analyses, respectively. Cells were exposed to cytomix (interferon gamma + tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)) to induce inflammation or co-exposed to cytomix and KO, LR and VitD3 alone or to cytomix and KLD. Animals were treated for 7 days with dextran sodium sulphate (DSS) to induce colitis or with DSS and KLD. In vitro assays: F-actin expression was analysed by immunofluorescence; scratch test and trans-epithelial electric resistance test were performed to measure wound healing; adhesion/invasion assays of adhesive and invasive Escherichia coli (AIEC) bacteria were made; mRNA expression of TNF-α, interleukin (IL)-8 and vitamin D receptor (VDR) was detected by quantitative PCR. In vivo assays: body weight, clinical score, histological score and large intestine weight and length were estimated; mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10 by quantitative PCR; VDR expression was detected by quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry. In vitro: KLD restores epithelial cell-cell adhesion and mucosal healing during inflammation, while decreases the adhesiveness and invasiveness of AIEC bacteria and TNF-α and IL-8 mRNA expression and increases VDR expression. In vivo: KLD significantly improves body weight, clinical score, histological score and large intestine length of mice with DSS-induced colitis and reduces TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA levels, while increases IL-10 mRNA and VDR levels. KLD has significant effects on the intestinal mucosa, strongly decreasing inflammation, increasing epithelial restitution and reducing pathogenicity of harmful commensal bacteria.
Oral administration of Simbioflora® (synbiotic) attenuates intestinal damage in a mouse model of 5-fluorouracil-induced mucositis
Authors: Trindade L.M. , Martins V.D. , Rodrigues N.M. , Souza E.L.S. , Martins F.S. , Costa G.M.F. , Almeida-Leite C.M. , Faria A.M.C. , Cardoso V.N. , Maioli T.U. , Generoso S.V.
Published: April 2018

The use of probiotics to prevent or treat mucosal inflammation has been studied; however, the combined effect of probiotics and prebiotics is unclear. The aim of this study was to test whether oral administration of a synbiotic (Simbioflora®) preparation containingLactobacillus paracasei,Lactobacillus rhamnosus,Lactobacillus acidophilusandBifidobacterium lactisplus fructooligosaccharide could help control mucosal inflammation in experimental mucositis induced by 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into six groups: control (CTL), control + prebiotic (CTL+P), control + synbiotic (CTL+S), mucositis (MUC), mucositis + prebiotic (MUC+P), and mucositis + synbiotic (MUC+S). Mice from the CTL+S, MUC+S, CTL+P, and MUC+P groups received synbiotic or prebiotic daily by oral gavage for 13 days. Mice in the CTL and MUC groups received the same volume of saline. On day 11, mice in the MUC, MUC+P, and MUC+S groups received an intraperitoneal injection of 300 mg/kg 5-FU to induce mucositis. After 72 h, all mice were euthanised. Intestinal permeability, intestinal histology, and biochemical parameters were analysed. Group MUC showed a greater weight loss and increased intestinal permeability (0.020 counts per min [cpm]/g) compared to the CTL group (0.01 cpm/g)P<0.05. Both treatments attenuated weight loss compared to the MUC group. Nonetheless, the synbiotic caused a greater reduction in intestinal permeability (0.012 cpm/g) compared to the MUC (0.020 cpm/g) and MUC+P (0.016 cpm/g) groupsP<0.05. Mice in groups MUC+P and MUC+S displayed significant recovery of lesions and maintenance of the mucus layer. There were no differences in the short-chain fatty acid concentrations in the faeces between the MUC and CTL groups (P>0.05). Increased acetate and propionate concentrations were evidenced in the faeces of the MUC+P and MUC+S groups. Only the synbiotic treatment increased the butyrate concentration (P<0.05). The results indicate that administration of synbiotic can decrease mucosal damage caused by mucositis.
Lactobacillus johnsonii N6.2 diminishes caspase-1 maturation in the gastrointestinal system of diabetes prone rats
Authors: Teixeira L.D. , Kling D.N. , Lorca G.L. , Gonzalez C.F.
Published: April 2018

The cells of the gastrointestinal (GI) epithelium are the first to contact the microbiota and food components. As a direct consequence of this, these cells are the first line of defence and key players in priming the immune response. One of the first responses against GI insults is the formation of the inflammasome, a multiprotein complex assembled in response to environmental threats. The formation of the inflammasome regulates caspase-1 by cleaving it into its active form. Once activated, caspase-1 can cleave interleukin-1β (IL-1β), which promotes adaptive and humoral immunity. Some strains, like Lactobacillus johnsonii N6.2, are able to modulate the biosynthesis of important host metabolites mediating inflammation. Of these metabolites are the pro-inflammatory kynurenines. L. johnsonii N6.2 is able to downregulate kynurenines biosynthesis via a redox active mechanism negatively affecting indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase activity. In this study, we evaluated the effects of L. johnsonii N6.2 combined with the natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory molecule rosmarinic acid (RA). Inflammasome assembly and the kynurenine pathway were evaluated in GI samples of BioBreeding diabetes-prone (BB-DP) rats. In this work, BB-DP rats were fed daily with RA, L. johnsonii N6.2; or both combined. The transcriptional rate and proteins levels of inflammasome and kynurenine pathway components in ileum tissue were evaluated. Elevated levels of pro-caspase-1 were observed in rats fed with L. johnsonii, while RA had no effect on pro-caspase-1 expression. Western blot assays demonstrated that L. johnsonii fed rats showed lower levels of mature caspase-1, when compared to the other treatments. Furthermore, IL-1β maturation followed a similar pattern across the treatments. Differences were also observed between treatments in expression levels of key enzymes in the kynurenine pathway. These findings support the role of L. johnsonii in modulating the assembly of the inflammasome as well as some steps of the pro-inflammatory kynurenine pathway.
Challenge with fumonisins B1 and B2 changes IGF-1 and GHR mRNA expression in liver of Nile tilapia fingerlings
Authors: Claudino-Silva S.C. , Lala B. , Mora N.H.A.P. , Schamber C.R. , Nascimento C.S. , Pereira V.V. , Hedler D.L. , Gasparino E.
Published: April 2018

Although fumonisins are identified as responsible for alterations in weight gain, little information is available on their effects on expression of growth-related genes, especially for Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings. In this study, Nile tilapia fingerlings were treated with increasing levels of fumonisin B1 (FB1) and fumonisin B2 (FB2) (diets of 0, 20, 40, and 60 mg/kg) to evaluate their effects on weight gain (WG), feed intake (FI), feed efficiency (FE), growth hormone receptor (GHR) and insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1) mRNA expression in liver of this fish. All variables were evaluated at 15 and 30 days of treatment. Diet containing 0 mg fumonisin/kg was used as control treatment. Treatment with 20, 40, and 60 mg fumonisin/kg of diet significantly reduced WG (P<0.0001) and FE (P<0.0001), while GHR and IGF-1 mRNA expression was reduced both at 15 and 30 days of treatment. Feed intake was not affected by diets in any of the evaluated periods. These results indicate that fumonisins (FB1 + FB2) affect the growth of Nile tilapia fingerlings through mechanisms that involve reduction of GHR and IGF-1 expression.
Application of biomarker methods to investigate FUMzyme mediated gastrointestinal hydrolysis of fumonisins in pigs
Authors: Schwartz-Zimmermann H.E. , Hartinger D. , Doupovec B. , Gruber-Dorninger C. , Aleschko M. , Schaumberger S. , Nagl V. , Hahn I. , Berthiller F. , Schatzmayr D. , Moll W.D.
Published: April 2018

Fumonisins are among the most prevalent mycotoxins in feedstuffs. They disrupt the sphingolipid metabolism, thereby inducing a plethora of toxic effects in livestock. Supplementation with mycotoxin-degrading enzymes is a promising strategy for the detoxification of feedstuffs in the animals’ gastrointestinal tract. Here, we evaluated the suitability of the fumonisin esterase FumD as a feed additive (FUMzyme®) for the prevention of fumonisin toxicity in pigs by using a combination of different fumonisin biomarkers (sphinganine to sphingosine (Sa/So) ratio in serum and organs, concentrations of fumonisin B1 and hydrolysed derivatives in urine and faeces). In a pre-trial, we exposed pigs to 30 mg/kg fumonisins in feed and found the minimum effective dose of FUMzyme to be 15 U/kg. In a second trial we investigated the long-term efficacy of this minimum effective FUMzyme dose to counteract toxic effects elicited by 6 weeks of exposure to 2.5 mg/kg fumonisins in a diet containing naturally contaminated maize. Supplementation of feed with the minimum effective FUMzyme dose prevented an increase in the Sa/So ratio in serum and kidneys of fumonisin exposed pigs. The Sa/So ratio in serum proved to be the most reliable biomarker. The fumonisin pattern in faeces was less suitable as biomarker for assessing the efficacy of FUMzyme due to natural gastrointestinal hydrolysis of fumonisins. Analysis of urine samples provided additional information about gastrointestinal fumonisin hydrolysis before fumonisin absorption, but was analytically challenging because of low urinary fumonisin concentrations.
Early Tomographic Changes in the Eyes of Patients With Keratoconus
Authors: Shajari Mehdi , Jaffary Irfan , Herrmann Kim , Grunwald Claudia , Steinwender Gernot , Mayer Wolfgang J. , Kohnen Thomas
Published: April 2018

PURPOSE:

To identify tomographic variables best suited for detecting keratoconus before manifestation of ectatic changes and showing disease progression in the early stage.

METHODS:

Twenty-seven patients with diagnosed unilateral keratoconus were followed up for their fellow eye, which had not yet shown any ectatic changes, to determine initial change indicators toward keratoconus disease. Variables were compared to 50 normal eyes without any known disease. A following receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to reveal the variables best used to discriminate healthy eyes from early ectatic eyes.

RESULTS:

The calculated mean difference of the cylinder for total corneal refractive power was only 0.07 ± 0.32 diopters (D) (anterior astigmatism = 0.12 ± 0.28 D and posterior astigmatism = 0.02 ± 0.10 D). ROC revealed the index of height decentration with an area under the curve of 0.788 ± 0.054 as the most suitable to differentiate between eyes of healthy patients and the non-ectatic eye of patients with asymmetrical keratoconus, followed by the index of vertical asymmetry of 0.772 ± 0.057 and a keratoconus index of 0.743 ± 0.062. However, with progression of the eyes into early ectactic stages, the ROC showed the highest area under the curve for D-index (0.876 ± 0.039), followed by index of height decentration (0.855 ± 0.046) and index of vertical asymmetry (0.842 ± 0.046).

CONCLUSIONS:

Early stages of keratoconus are hard to diagnose and best results can be achieved by using index of height decentration and index of vertical asymmetry. As the disease progresses, D-index is better suited to diagnose an ectasia. Astigmatism, keratometry, and pachymetry barely change in the early stages, so these values are not as fitting as corneal elevation parameters for early diagnosis.

[
J Refract Surg.
2018;34(4):254–259.]
Révoltes populaires dans la Suède du ixe siècle : Jan Fridegård ou la transposition de revendications prolétariennes à l’époque viking
Authors: Olsson Caroline
Published: April 2018

Jan Fridegård, romancier suédois, appartient à ce que l’on appelle l’école prolétarienne. L’ambition principale des auteurs prolétariens fut de dénoncer les injustices sociales dont ils avaient été victimes et témoins durant leur jeunesse et d’offrir une nouvelle littérature pour le peuple. À travers une trilogie située à l’époque viking, Fridegård établit une continuité historique entre les esclaves de la Scandinavie antique et les ouvriers agricoles de la première moitié du XXe siècle. Afin de traduire les revendications sociales et politiques de son milieu d’origine démuni, le romancier relate une série de révoltes populaires conduites par l’ancien esclave évadé Holme dans la Suède du IXe siècle
Le contenu et la valeur juridique du principe de laïcité
Authors: Bouillon Henri
Published: April 2018

Par sa décision du 21 février 2013, relative à la rémunération par l’État des ministres du culte en Alsace-Moselle, le Conseil constitutionnel a, de manière inédite, précisé le principe constitutionnel de laïcité énoncé à l’article 1er de la Constitution. L’interprétation qu’il en donne, et qui s’inspire substantiellement des articles 1er et 2 de la loi de séparation des Églises et de l’État de 1905, paraît toutefois justiciable de plusieurs critiques au regard du droit positif, avec lequel elle s’accorde difficilement. Aussi cette décision du Conseil constitutionnel est-elle l’occasion de cerner un peu plus précisément l’interprétation que le droit positif fait du principe de laïcité, tant les différentes composantes qu’il y inclut que la valeur juridique qu’il confère à chacune de ces composantes.
Un particularisme provincial en matière d’exécution forcée : le droit des saisies immobilières en Normandie aux xviie et xviiie siècles
Authors: Dandine Élisabeth
Published: April 2018

Seul domaine de la Coutume de Normandie réformé en 1600, le droit des saisies immobilières, qui trouve aussi sa source dans la jurisprudence du Parlement de Rouen, obéit à une procédure formaliste et complexe, différente selon qu’il s’agit de biens roturiers ou nobles, d’offices ou de bateaux et navires, de débiteurs majeurs ou mineurs. Une fois l’adjudication réalisée sur la base d’un système de double enchère, elle ne tend qu’à un seul but : assurer le désintéressement effectif des créanciers grâce à diverses techniques mises en œuvre du dépôt des oppositions à l’établissement de l’ordre.
La question juridique des restes humains sous l’angle de la dignité de la personne
Authors: Fontanieu Guillaume
Published: April 2018

De par leur nature, les restes humains posent des problématiques qui sont difficilement appréhendées par le droit. Le concept de dignité humaine permet d’apporter certaines réponses, souvent audacieuses, parfois ambiguës. Depuis 1994, le cadre normatif de la dignité humaine a été renforcé pour parvenir en 2008 à l’insertion d’un article 16-1-1 au code civil prescrivant le traitement avec respect, dignité et décence des restes des personnes décédées. Par l’adoption d’une telle disposition, les musées spécialisés dans les expositions de restes humains, tels que Dupuytren ou Fragonard, peuvent se retrouver fragilisés dans leur action. Après avoir émis certaines réserves sur l’avis no 111 du Comité d’éthique, en reprenant en substance les éléments de l’affaire Our Body, nous reviendrons sur les arguments scientifiques pour une telle conservation, ce qui permettra d’expliciter davantage les éléments de cette notion de traitement dans le respect. En revenant par la suite sur la question centrale de la dignité humaine à partir de son évolution jurisprudentielle, nous pouvons réaliser, dans un objectif pratique, un affinement conceptuel pour expliciter dans quelle mesure ce principe ne peut s’appliquer en soi aux restes humains. Le développement cette notion permet d’expliciter l’érosion du principe d’inaliénabilité des biens publics qui peut aujourd’hui servir au profit d’une politique de restitution. Celle-ci est toujours au centre d’un débat puisque la question des têtes maories n’a pas permis de résoudre le sujet des biens publics faisant l’objet de dons ou de legs et étant sous un principe absolu d’inaliénabilité, ce qui est le cas de la plupart des restes humains conservés dans des institutions muséales. Nous verrons dans quelle mesure les États-Unis et le Royaume-Uni ont apporté des réponses différentes et codificatrices. La problématique de la construction d’un dialogue interculturel s’ouvre pour permettre de faire vivre des notions telles que le patrimoine commun de l’humanité ou encore celle des droits des peuples autochtones quant au rapatriement de leurs biens culturels.
L’embouchure de l'Amazone, macro-frontière géomorphologique : enseignements de 30 années de recherches franco-brésiliennes sur les systèmes côtiers amazoniens (2e partie)
Authors: Prost M. T. R. C. , Faure J-F. , Charron C. , Borges H.V. , Santos V. F. , Mendes A.C. , Gardel A.
Published: April 2018

L’embouchure du fleuve Amazone, considéré comme le plus grand fleuve au monde en étendue et en volume d'eau, est une macro frontière géomorphologique entre deux grands ensembles côtiers amazoniens, celui des Guyanes (entre l’Amapá et le Venezuela) et celui du nord du Brésil (Pará/Maranhão ). L´embouchure du grand fleuve est aussi un domaine géologique remarquable entre la plateforme de l’Amapá, le bassin de Marajó et la plateforme Pará-Maranhão. L’essai ici présenté faite référence à de très nombreux travaux multidisciplinaires passés et actuels et aux avancées des outils satellitaires de suivi environnemental. Son objectif principal est d’analyser le rôle de l’embouchure en tant que seuil de passage et de rencontre aux niveaux régional et local. L’approche méthodologique et géomorphologique est fondée sur la taxonomie des faits et sur la notion dialectique de type et d’individu. Les considérations finales traitent des indicateurs environnementaux et examinent quelques tendances évolutives du littoral amazonien.
Dune fields in Jericoacoara: human intervention as a possible indicator of changes in the morphological dynamics
Authors: Meireles Antonio Jeovah , Gorayeb Adryane , Filho Narcélio de Sá Pereira
Published: April 2018

Coastal dunes play an important role in the sediment transport of the coastal zone. The morphology of the Jericoacoara National Park in the northeastern Brazilian state of Ceará consists of a headland covered by a mobile dune field consisting of large mobile barchans dune fields that migrate from east to west. These dunes are responsible for the bypass and transportation of essential sediments for the maintenance of the coastline without cumulative erosive effects. The present study focused on the morphodynamic evolution of these isolated mobile dunes through the recovery of multitemporal Landsat and QuickBird satellite images of the years between 1975 and 2010. The spatiotemporal analysis of the distribution and morphology of these dunes over this 35-year period revealed significant shifts in their area, perimeter, and movement patterns. It was possible to confirm that the flow of material and energy was linked to a process of continuous migration in the direction of the beach. The dynamics of the dune migration in the years following 2000 was established, indicates possible impacts on the morphology of the dunes resulting from the increase in tourism within the area. These changes were most significant between 2001 and 2005, possibly reflecting a anthropogenic impacts.
Gestão dos recursos hídricos no Rio Grande do Norte
Authors: Farias Juliana Felipe , Amorim Rodrigo de Freitas , Júnior João Correia Saraiva
Published: April 2018

A elevada demanda de recursos hídricos vem exigindo dos sistemas de gerenciamento mais eficiência e respostas rápidas, especialmente em locais com alta variabilidade e escassez hídrica. Dentro de um cenário de baixa disponibilidade de recursos hídricos, Estados como Ceará, Pernambuco, Paraíba e Rio Grande do Norte precisam buscar constantemente soluções para mitigar dificuldades relacionadas à captação e distribuição das águas. Nesse contexto, a complexidade da gestão hídrica no Rio Grande do Norte exige a participação de todos os segmentos da sociedade de forma ordenada e solidária. O Estado como articulador dos processos de outorga, captação e ações emergenciais relacionados ao abastecimento e conflitos pelo uso da água possui uma estrutura delimitada com secretarias articuladas a outros setores responsáveis por tais ações. Nesse sentido, este artigo apresenta a organização institucional da gestão dos recursos hídricos do Rio Grande do Norte, evidenciando seus diversos aspectos. Para realização da pesquisa foram efetivadas consultas aos instrumentos jurídicos, específicos da gestão de recursos hídricos, revisão de artigos científicos, trabalhos de campo e entrevistas com representantes das diversas instâncias que compõem a gestão hídrica. Os resultados apontam que ainda há falta de entendimento quanto às funções de alguns entes participantes da gestão dos recursos hídricos, notadamente municípios, usuários e órgãos estaduais. Ao mesmo tempo é possível observar que as ações de gestão no Estado vêm sendo concentradas na construção de barragens, adutoras, perfuração de poços e instalação de dessanilizadores, como forma de garantir a seguridade hídrica de usos múltiplos. Por fim, fica evidente que as ações implantadas pelo Estado, ao longo do tempo, têm mantido o atendimento básico de abastecimento de água à população, contudo ainda é preciso consolidar a infraestrutura física e de gestão para que seja assegurado o acesso a água pelos diversos usuários.
Paisagens do Rio Grande do Norte: uma introdução às diversidades regionais e marcas das ações geográficas no espaço potiguar
Authors: Amorim Rodrigo de Freitas , Junior Raimundo Nonato , Poster Juliana Felipe Farias
Published: April 2018

O presente artigo apresenta reflexões introdutórias sobre a categoria geográfica da paisagem, analisada no contexto territorial do Estado do Rio Grande do Norte. Seu objetivo é de propor novas formas de leitura, interpretação e análise das paisagens do Estado. São analisadas formas de classificação paisagisticas com base na interação entre critérios físicos e humanos, de forma a conceber uma metodologia de análise transversal. As unidades de paisagem delimitadas apontam para uma relação dialógica entre as categorias de paisagem e região, bem como para formas diversas de manifestação destas no espaço geográfico. A diversidade de marcas na morfologia do Estado é utilizada para questionar a errônea visão homogeneizante das paisagens do Nordeste Brasileiro. Os dados apontam em geral para uma concepção de paisagem que serve de provocação para pensar a condição híbrida da epistemologia geográfica em tempos contemporâneos, bem como suas novas formas de configuração espacial.
Cohab/RN: o caminho da interiorização
Authors: Medeiros Sara Raquel Fernandes Queiroz de
Published: April 2018

A política habitacional implementada no Brasil pelo Banco Nacional de Habitação (BNH) teve, entre seus agentes operacionais, as Companhias de Habitação (Cohabs), instituídas em cada estado da federação. Este artigo trata das ações da Cohab/RN no que diz respeito à construção de conjuntos habitacionais no interior do estado, buscando contribuir com as pesquisas sobre habitação fora dos grandes centros urbanos. Foram utilizadas diferentes fontes de dados qualitativos e quantitativos, como bases institucionais (por exemplo, BNH, DATANORTE e IBGE), jornais (Tribuna do Norte), revistas (RN-econômico e BNH em resumo) e outros. A sistematização das informações primou por uma análise histórica e espacial, com dados organizados em tabelas, quadros e mapas. São destacadas as motivações políticas, econômicas e sociais que contribuíram para a interiorização da Cohab/RN e as peculiaridades desse processo. Ressalta-se que a análise desses conjuntos habitacionais proporciona elementos importantes para a compreensão da realidade local e/ou para análises comparativas, tanto com a política habitacional atual, no RN, quanto com as ações de outras Cohabs no Brasil.
Plutôt des enfants sans père que des personnes étrangères sur nos terres ! Pour une critique nécessaire de l’article 30 du projet de loi sur l’asile et l’immigration. Premier épisode.
Authors: Carayon Lisa
Published: April 2018

L’article 30 du projet de loi asile et immigration prévoit deux modifications des dispositions du Code civil. La première consiste à exiger désormais de la part des personnes qui procèdent à la reconnaissance d’un enfant – dans l’immense majorité des cas les pères – la production d’un document d’identité et d’une preuve de domicile. La seconde est la mise en place d’un système d’opposition à la reconnaissance par le Ministère public en cas de suspicion de reconnaissances de complaisance. Le Conseil d’État, très réservé à l’égard du projet, n’a cependant pas cru bon de critiquer ces propositions. Pourtant, la réalité statistique de ces reconnaissances frauduleuses permet d’en interroger très sérieusement la pertinence. Ces propositions pourraient au contraire conduire à priver certains enfants de filiation, en particulier dans les populations les plus fragiles.
Mathematical Modelling of Material Flow during Friction Stir Welding of Aluminium Alloys
Authors: Ighisan Cosmin , Radu Bogdan , Ciucă Cristian
Published: April 2018

The paper presents the results of a mathematical model of the material flow during Friction Stir Welding (FSW) of aluminium alloys using a Finite Element Analysis. The authors presented their work on a two-dimensional visco-plastic model, using User Define Functions (UDF) in a commercial CFD code (FLUENT). The model developed was validated by microstructural investigations on experimental FSW joints and by a comparative analysis of temperature distribution field of the experimental FSW joint and numerical simulated model. The results confirmed that the mathematical model describes with a good precision the material flow and temperature field during FSW process.
Composite Deposits Developed by Welding on Horizontal Mill Hammers
Authors: Binchiciu Emilia Florina , Fleșer Traian , Voiculescu Ionelia , Geantă Victor
Published: April 2018

The paper presents the concept of designing active hammer edges of horizontal mills for grinding tungsten carbide waste by making composite layers deposited by welding. The new generation of hammers is carried out on the principles of preventive and repetitive maintenance, by endowment with wear addition, predetermined as volume and geometric configuration, depending on the specific conditions of uninterrupted use for a period of time established for economic reasons. The main demands that affect the integrity of the active areas of grinding mills (high pressure abrasion wear, thermo-mechanical fatigue) generate both material losses and output from working rates, as well as excessive elongation of the support elements under the combined action of centripetal force and of the pressure exerted by the ground load. Under these conditions, the technically and economically optimized solution is to design the modular active elements in the form of easily assembled detachable components, made of a low alloy steel with average tear resistance (450-600MPa) on which we deposit by welding layers of composite austenitic steel, hardened by compression, so as to increase the lifetime of the hammers by up to 35% compared to the present solution, which can be upgraded up to 3 times for reuse.
The Influence of Mismatch Effect on the High Cycle Fatigue Resistance of High Strength Steel Welded Joints
Authors: Dobosy Ádám , Gáspár Marcell , Lukács János
Published: April 2018

The objective of this article is to present the newest results of our research work related to the high cycle fatigue resistance of advanced high strength steels. In order to determine and compare the fatigue resistance, high cycle fatigue (HCF) tests were performed on two strength categories (S690 and S960) of high strength steels including quenched and tempered (Q+T) and thermomechanical (TM) types. During the HCF tests base materials and their welded joints were investigated at different mismatch conditions (matching, undermatching, overmatching). Measured and analysed data about base materials and welded joints were compared and discussed. Statistical approach was applied during the preparation and the evaluation of the investigations, which increased their reliability. The parameters of the HCF design curves were calculated based on the Japanese testing method (JSME S 002-1981) which uses 14 specimens. During the evaluation the results were compared with each other and with literary data. According to the presented examinations the HCF resistance of the base materials is more advantageous than the welded joints. The TM steel indicated better fatigue resistance than the quenched and tempered one of the same category. The matching problem had influence on the HCF resistance of high strength steels, depending on the strength category and the steel type.
Using of 3D Printing Technology in Low Cost Prosthetics
Authors: Koprnicky Jan , Šafka Jiří , Ackermann Michal
Published: April 2018

The 3D printing technology used for final production of upper limb prostheses is the topicof this article. It focuses on different 3D printing technologies and testing of different thermoplasticmaterials. As the testing object an index finger of HACKberry open source myoelectric bionic handwas used. This part was 3D printed by using of different printing technologies (FFF/FDM, SLA, SLS,PolyJet), and different materials (PLA, ABS, PC-ABS, Though, etc.), and different strategies (heightof layers). The fingers were mechanically tested to simulate flexion in a tip pinch grip. At the endof this paper results of this research and testing is summarized, and optimal material, technology andstrategies of parts production is highlighted.
FEM-Aided Material Selection and Derivation of Material Indices
Authors: Kratochvíl Martin , Florian Pavel , Mazínová Ivana , Hrdlička Filip
Published: April 2018

This paper is devoted to the derivation of material indices using the finite element method. Material indices take into account material properties such a Young’s modulus and density are a powerful tool for material selection for various applications since they allow a quick comparison of suitability of different materials. Until now material indices were developed analytically for rather simple textbook-like examples. However, by implementing the finite element method and data fitting tools material indices can be developed for more complicated problems where the analytical solution cannot be obtained. The current paper describes derivation of material indices using ANSYS software. It is used as a simulator of a physical phenomenon. The simulation generates output data which is used to derive the material index.
Optimization of the Material of External Fixator with FEM Simulation
Authors: Tomanec Filip , Rusnáková Soňa , Žaludek Milan
Published: April 2018

Patients and surgeons with tibia fracture using external fixator are worried about a higher weight of metal fixator´s construction and therefore also poor manipulation ability with this tool [1]. During the last few years the bone tissue engineering has improved significantly and along with that also material development has increased [2,3]. Therefore patients requirements can be achieved by optimizing the material composition of this product. The main objective of this research is a weight reduction by material and design changes of the external fixator. Another aim is the evaluation of the final model. The model of innovative fixator was created and also computed in software CATIA V5-6 using finite element method simulation. Appropriate forces were applied and the simulation was performed. Results of FEM simulation indicate that the final weight of complete product declined significantly after application of carbon-fiber composite. Test results also suggest that the rigidity and the stability of complete fixator are safe. Hence this research describes that application of carbon fiber composite into the external fixator design is an important improvement of the external fixator.
Research into the Impact of the Beam Material and Embedding on the Size of the Maximum Deflection and Stress by Using Numerical Simulation
Authors: Kravarikova Helena
Published: April 2018

The most frequent research methods applied in various areas of scientific research are computer modelling and numerical simulation. The trend of using finite element method (FEM) gradually replaces classical methods of exploring phenomena. The method is suitable for investigating technical phenomena in the field of construction, mechanics and strength, as well as in other disciplines. Its suitability for the area of ​​strength will be demonstrated in the current paper which presents solutions to various embeddings of a beam under bend. The beam was loaded with an external uniformly distributed load q(x) along its entire length. The research aim was to determine the maximum load and maximum deflection of the beam depending on the beam position and the material used. The beam under bend was selected as the most commonly used structural element. Analytical solution to bending moment and displacement forces is suitable for simple beam loads. Modelling and numerical simulations provide solution to complex problems and different load variations, while identifying changes in material properties of the structural element under consideration. The results are then evaluated and judged on the basis of the maximum strength of the structural material, while meeting the safety condition of the maximum load or maximum deflection. Modelling via FEM is a flexible research method applicable in all research areas.
The Size of the Friction Coefficient of the Sliding Pair Depending on the Lubricant Used
Authors: Labašová Eva , Labaš Vladimír
Published: April 2018

Tribometry Methods are Focused on the Research of Tribological Processes. these Method Also Include Model Tests on Experimental Equipment, which Operate in Exactly-Defined Mode. Input Parameters of Tests are Transparent and Easy to Maintain Constant. Outputs Variables, which are Recorded, Represent Characteristic Parameters of Tribological Processes. Tests are Carried out on Simple Test Samples. the Aim of these Methods is to Numerically Express the Magnitude of Friction Force, Friction Moment, Respectively Determinate the Friction Coefficient. the Contribution is Focused on Determining the Friction Coefficient for Brass and Steel Test Samples. the Measurements were Realized on a Test Machine Tribotestor M`89. Size of the Sliding Velocity and Size of the Loading Force were Entered to the Tests as Input Parameters. Two Types of Oil were Used in the Experiments: Castrol Manual EP 80W and Madit PP90. the Results Obtained Show that the Friction Coefficient Value Decreases with the Increasing Normal Load for both Materials and Also for both Lubricants. Smaller Friction Coefficient Values were Achieved Using Lubricant Castrol Manual EP 80W for both Materials. the Average Values of the Friction Coefficient under the Load Conditions Ranged from 0.056 to 0.1240.
Materials, Construction and Manufacture of the Vehicle for Inspection of Piping Systems
Authors: Knedlová Jana , Bílek Ondřej , Sámek David , Chalupa Petr
Published: April 2018

The article focuses on the design, construction and manufacture of an inspection vehicle intended to access difficult-to-reach places. The vehicle is able to monitor piping system failures at the view angle of 180° in deep depths and adverse environments. The individual components of the inspection vehicle, more detailed their programming and production on CNC machines are discussed. The vehicle is supposed to easily run into the piping systems and can be safely pulled out. A control system was created for motion and video signal transmission to the operator from above the ground. Aluminum alloy (EN AW 2024) is the predominant material of the manufactured components and at the same time has ideal processing and operating properties. Proposed inspection vehicle is a robust and functional solution with minimal maintenance.
The Solution Design of Hobbing Worm Milling Cutters Face Teeth Undercut
Authors: Milsimerová Aneta
Published: April 2018

Face teeth grinding of special tools, as hobing worm milling cutters are, is the shape and cinematically complex operation with the respect to achieving the necessary accuracy and resultant shape geometry. The grinding wheel shape, it ́s size and the control helix angle of hobing worm are the primary factors which are compelling the ground groove accuracy during the face teeth sharpening process. Inappropriately selected combination of these parameters causes undercut of this surface and the negative impact on required accuracy. The main aim of the solution is to find a variable and to create a parametric mathematical model to calculate appropriate grinding wheel shape according to the input factors – hobing worm and grinding wheel parameters which affects this issue. This system will be used to create the initial grinding wheel surface and a helix groove undercut calculation program. The graphical part of this programme will be the next benefit.
Comparison of Hardness of Surface 316L Stainless Steel Made by Additive Technology and Cold Rolling
Authors: Pagáč Marek , Hajnyš Jiří , Petrů Jana , Zlámal Tomáš
Published: April 2018

The paper deals with the comparison of surface hardness and porosity of stainless steel 316L (1.4404) produced by additive technology (SLM) and cold rolled steel. The subject of the paper is a comparison of two sets of samples where the first set of samples was made on a Renishaw AM400 with a laser output of 200 W and 400 W. In each set of samples, were the samples without heat-treated and heat-treated by annealing. Measurement of porosity and surface hardness were performed on all samples. The surface hardness of the material was evaluated by a static test according to Brinell CSN EN 10003-1. The porosity measurement was performed by the optical method. The measured values were compared with the reference material, which was cold-rolled steel, in which both the porosity and the hardness of the surface were measured.
The impact of prostate artery embolization (PAE) on the the physical history and pathophysiology of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Authors: Stamatiou Konstantinos
Published: April 2018

Aim: Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a non invasive modality for the treatment of benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH) related lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). As a relatively new procedure, data determining the clinical success is somehow scarce. In the present article we examine the current clinical outcome measures in order to identify the most accurate. Results: Current imaging outcome measures are consistent with clinical ones only in the group of patients with adenomatous- dominant BPH while are inconsistent in patients with small sized adenomas. Conclusions: Additional studies and/or evaluation tools are needed in order to provide accurate evaluation of clinical success in the subgroup of patients with non- adenomatous-dominant BPH while they may inspire new options and novel techniques for both BPH treatment and treatment-follow up.
How do vegetable oils (hazelnut and canola) affect the reproductive system in male rats?
Authors: Kati Bűlent , Oguz Fatih , Yilmaz Ismet , Akdemir Ender , Altintas Ramazan , Akpolat Nusret , Taskapan Mehmet Cagatay
Published: April 2018

Objective: Vegetable oils have an important place in our daily diet. This study starts from this point to investigate the effects of canola oil and hazelnut oil in the male reproductive system in rats. Material and methods: 30 male rats were used in this 16-week study. The animals were divided into three groups: the animals in group I served as the control group, while the animals in group II and group III were fed with hazelnut and canola oil, respectively. The testes of all rats were excised for histopathologic evaluation and immunohistochemical (IHC) evaluation with a standard method. Blood samples were obtained for determination of serum hormone levels. Results: No significant differences were noted with respect to behavior or weight among the three groups. Rats in the canola oil group (group III) had higher luteinizing hormone (LH) and higher testosterone levels than rats in the control group. Rats who received hazelnut oil (group II) exhibited similar findings, with these levels being higher than they were in the control group. No statistical differences were shown for histopathology or IHC testosterone antibody levels across all treatment groups. Conclussion: Canola oil was shown to have a greater effect on serum LH and testosterone compared to the control group and the group fed with hazelnut oil. Further investigation is required into how these oils affect serum hormone and sperm activity.
Metastasis of the epididymis and spermatic cord from pancreatic adenocarcinoma: A rare entity. Description of a case and revision of literature
Authors: Di Franco Carmelo Agostino , Rovereto Bruno , Porru Daniele , Zoccarato Valeria , Regina Cesare , Cebrelli Tiziano , Fiorello Nicolò , Viglio Alessandra , Galvagno Lavinia , Marchetti Carlo , Ringressi Andrea , Barletta Davide , Giliberto Giovanni
Published: April 2018

Introduction: Metastatic epididymal and spermatic cord adenocarcinoma from epithelial tumors are a rare condition. The most frequent primary cancers are prostate, lung, kidney, gastrointestinal tumors and breast. In literature, there are very low number of cases reporting metastasis from pancreatic cancer to epididymis and spermatic cord. Case description: We report a case of 70-years old man with history of left orchiectomy for undescended testicle, who presented to our department with a palpable nodule in the right scrotum. Scrotal ultrasound revealed an inhomogeneous hypoechoic nodule of epididymis and/or spermatic cord. Neoplastic markers showed high levels of CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen) and bHCG (beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin). The patient underwent right surgical scrotal exploration with orchifunicolectomy. Pathologic examination revealed pathologic tissue showing rare glandular structures. Immunohistochemistry profile was compatible with malign epithelial neoplasm with glandular differentiation. Total body CT-scan revealed pathologic tissue in pancreas between head and body and a suspect pathologic lesion in liver and 18-FDG PET-scan confirmed the pancreatic neoplastic mass and a suspect secondary hepatic lesion. Biopsy of pancreatic pathologic area was positive for ductal pancreatic adenocarcinoma. The patient was sent to oncologic evaluation and started chemotherapy. Conclusions: Malignancies of epididymis and spermatic cord are rare entities and, in literature, very low number of cases of metastasis from pancreatic carcinoma to epididymis and spermatic cord are described. Early differential diagnosis is fundamental mostly in those patients with age range unusual for testis cancers.
Heat of reaction and vaporization of feed and product in the thermal hydrocracking of Athabasca bitumen
Authors: Pruden B B , Denis J M
Published: April 2018

The heat of reaction for thermal hydrocracking of topped (to 260°C) Athabasca bitumen was measured as a function of pitch conversion, hydrogen consumption and sulphur removal. A pilot plant reactor 3.8 cm ID by a length of 3.95 m was used as calorimeter.
Results are reported on the basis of liquid reactants converted to liquid products plus gases: Liquid reactants + H2 liquid product + gases + 112S and on the basis of heat removed from the reactor to maintain isothermal conditions. Results for the equilibrium flash vaporization of products in the
presence of hydrogen are compared with computed predictions of product flash vaporization. Predictions are given for feed flash vaporization in the presence of hydrogen. Results are given for the ranges of reactor temperatures and pressures from 450 to 485°C and 2000 to 3500 psi (13.9 to 24.23
MPa) respectively, for liquid hourly space velocities (LHSV) of 1 and 2 and for a hydrogen-hydrocarbon gas (85:15 volume ratio) recycle flow of 1.5 ft 3 /h (0.042 m3 /h) at room temperature and reactor pressure. This recycle gas flow would correspond to industrial conditions of recycle gas of 3350
SCF/bbl at 2000 psi and LHSV = 2, or 6700 SCF/bbl at 2000 psi and LHSV = 1.
Separation of nitrogenous materials from bitumen and heavy oils
Authors: Sawatzky H , Ahmed S M , George A E , Smiley G T
Published: April 2018

Separation of nitrogenous compounds and associated polar materials from deasphaltened Athabasca bitumen has been studied by modified API-USBM procedures. A pumping system was used and small fractions were collected to follow the extent of the separations. It was
found that only limited elution or extraction of the ion exchange resins was required compared with the exhaustive extractions of the unmodified method. The amounts of so-called "neutral nitrogen compounds" that elute from the ion exchange resins with pentane and cyclohexane depend on the degree of
extraction. These neutral nitrogenous materials are concentrated in the tail of the pentane and cyclohexane eluates and can be further concentrated by the same procedure as the type separations. It appears that this is more desirable than the use of methods involving complexing with ferric chloride
because polynuclear hydrocarbons are also removed by the ferric chloride. Some applications of the method have been made. Cold Lake bitumen, Lloydminster and Medicine River oils were studied. A heavy oil product from a severely hydrocracked Athabasca bitumen was also investigated. The fractions
separated from Athabasca bitumen and its hydrocracked products were examined by infrared spectrometry. The main points of interest were the practically complete decarboxylation of carboxylic acids and the apparent large increase in carbazoles and indoles during
hydrocracking.
Comparisons of coke produced in different CANMET coke ovens: part 1: 12- and 18-inch over coke strengths
Authors: Leeder W R , Price J T
Published: April 2018

The Coal Resource and Processing Laboratory (CRPL), formerly known as the Canadian Metallurgical Fuels Research Laboratory (CMFRL), operates 12-inch, 18-inch and Koppers technical-scale movable-wall ovens. Each oven uses different standard conditions in order to
produce coke of similar quality to that produced by industrial coke ovens. This report summarizes a number of tests carried out in more than one CRPL oven with the same coking coals or blends to determine how the quality of coke produced from one oven relates to that from the others. Regression
analyses indicate that ASTM coke stabilities, ASTM 30 coke hardnesses, and JIS DI 15 coke tumbler test indices can be related linearly for any pair of ovens. Cokes produced from the same coal blend but carbonized in different ovens have similar ASTM stabilities. The ASTM hardness values are similar
for cokes from the Koppers and 12-inch ovens but these values are consistently higher than hardnesses for cokes from the 18-inch oven.