bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ASSESSMENT OF CRISIS SITUATIONS AS PROVIDING ECONOMIC SECURITY OF ISSUERS
Authors: Fedorenko I. N.
Published: March 2015

It examines the need to assess the crisis phenomena in the company in the role of the issuer. Аn important role is played by such characteristics of the enterprise, as the scale of the potential and scope of operation, activities in the securities market . It is important to determine the start time of the crisis and prevent its impact on the company , in order to ensure economic security. According to the author, the development of interest in the analysis of the company to assess and prevent the crisis, which can be used in the work of financial consultants, underwriters, and other interested professionals.
SYSTEMIC MANAGEMENT IN A TRANSFORMING ECONOMУ
Authors: Kleiner G. B.
Published: March 2015

The paper classifies kinds of management and shows that in terms of transforming economy systemic management, focused on the development of basic economic systems and their stable complexes, is the most relevant.
A Model of Critical Phosphorus Concentration in the Shoot Biomass of Wheat
Authors: Bélanger Gilles , Ziadi Noura , Pageau Denis , Grant Cynthia , Högnäsbacka Merja , Virkajärvi Perttu , Hu Zhengyi , Lu Jia , Lafond Jean , Nyiraneza Judith
Published: March 2015

Critical nutrient concentrations are required for assessing the level of crop nutrition. Our objectives were to validate an existing model of critical phosphorus concentration (Pc = 0.94 + 0.107N) in the shoot biomass (SB) of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and to assess the alternative approach of expressing Pc as a function of SB rather than shoot N concentration (N). We applied four rates of P fertilizer (0, 10, 20, and 30 kg P ha−1) on soils with a low to medium available P concentration at four locations in three countries (Normandin [Canada; 2010, 2011, 2012], Brandon [Canada; 2010, 2012], Ylistaro [Finland; 2010, 2011], and Beijing [China; 2012]) for a total of 8 site‐years. Shoot biomass, and N and P concentrations were measured on five dates with 1‐wk intervals from vegetative to late heading stages of development, and grain yield was measured. Increasing P fertilization did not increase grain yield at any of the 8 site‐years and had little effect on SB. Under nonlimiting P conditions achieved in most cases with no applied P, the allometric relationship between Pc and SB differed among locations, while the relationship between Pc and shoot N concentration (Pc = −0.677 + 0.221N − 0.00292N2, R2 = 0.82, P < 0.001) was independent of locations. This model of critical P concentration predicts lower Pc values than that previously reported, mostly for high shoot N concentrations. This predictive model of Pc can be used to quantify the degree of P deficiency during the wheat growing season.
Crop Rotation and Tillage Effects on Soil Physical and Chemical Properties in Illinois
Authors: Zuber Stacy M. , Behnke Gevan D. , Nafziger Emerson D. , Villamil Maria B.
Published: March 2015

Recent increases in corn (Zea maysL.) production in the U.S. Corn Belt have necessitated the conversion of rotations to continuous corn, and an increase in the frequency of tillage. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of rotation and tillage on soil physical and chemical properties in soils typical of Illinois. Sequences of continuous corn (CCC), 2‐yr corn–soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr.] (CS) rotation, 3‐yr corn–soybean–wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) (CSW) rotation, and continuous soybean (SSS) were split into conventional tillage (CT) and no‐till (NT) subplots at two Illinois sites. After 15 yr, bulk density (BD) under NT was 2.4% greater than under CT. Water aggregate stability (WAS) was 0.84 kg kg−1under NT compared to 0.81 kg kg−1under CT. Similarly, soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) were greater under NT than under CT with SOC values for 0 to 60 cm of 96.0 and 91.0 Mg ha−1and TN values of 8.87 and 8.40 Mg ha−1for NT and CT, respectively. Rotations affected WAS, TN, and K levels with WAS being greatest for the CSW rotation at 0.87 kg kg−1, decreasing with more soybean years (CS, 0.82 kg kg−1and SSS, 0.79 kg kg−1). A similar pattern was detected for TN and exchangeable K. Results indicated that while the use of NT improved soil quality, long‐term implementation of continuous corn had similar soil quality parameters to those found under a corn–soybean rotation.
Water‐Entry Pressure and Friction Angle in an Artificially Synthesized Water‐Repellent Silty Soil
Authors: Lee Changho , Yang Heui-Jean , Yun Tae Sup , Choi Youngmin , Yang Seongyeong
Published: March 2015

Water‐repellent soils possess unique hydraulic and mechanical behaviors that confer large potential for their use in geotechnical applications because particle‐scale surface‐wettability characteristics significantly influence macroscale manifestations. This study examined the hydraulic and mechanical behavior of an artificially created water‐repellent silty soil with four different concentrations of a reactive organo‐silane solution. A series of laboratory tests was performed that included measurements of water‐droplet penetration time (WDPT), water‐entry pressure (WEP), flow rate, and friction angle. Experimental results showed that the artificial treatment produced a unique range of porosity values depending on the concentration and that the WDPT and WEP increased with decreasing porosity and increasing concentration. A gravimetric fraction of 40% water‐repellent particles was sufficient for bulk soils to exhibit water repellency. The flow rate of specimens with a high concentration of reactive organo‐silane tended to be high due to the resulting high degree of saturation on water permeation. In contrast, friction angles tended to decrease with increasing concentration of organo‐silane solution under dry conditions and remained quasi‐constant on wetting, regardless of the degree of saturation.
Singularities interacting with interfaces incorporating surface elasticity under plane strain deformations
Authors: Wang Xu , Schiavone Peter
Published: March 2015

We consider problems involving singularities such as point force, point
moment, edge dislocation and a circular Eshelby?s inclusion in isotropic
bimaterials in the presence of an interface incorporating surface/interface
elasticity under plane strain deformations and derive elementary solutions in
terms of exponential integrals. The surface mechanics is incorporated using a
version of the continuum-based surface/interface model of Gurtin and Murdoch.
The results indicate that the stresses in the two half-planes are dependent
on two interface parameters.
The Darcy-Forchheimer law for modelling fluid flow in biological tissues
Authors: Grillo Alfio , Carfagnay Melania , Federicoz Salvatore
Published: March 2015

The motion of the interstitial uid of a biological tissue is studied by
employing the Darcy-Forchheimer law, a correction to standard Darcy's law.
The tissue is modelled as a saturated biphasic medium comprising the fluid
and a deformable matrix. The reason for undertaking this study is that a
description of the tissue's dynamics based on the Darcy-Forchheimer law might
be more complete than the one based on Darcy's law, since the former provides
a better macroscopic representation of the microscopic fluid-solid
interactions. Through numerical simulations, we analyse the influence of the
Forchheimer's correction.
The Timing of Asset Purchases to Achieve Earnings Thresholds
Authors: Canace Thomas G. , Salzsieder Leigh
Published: March 2015

This study examines whether managers use capital investment decisions, and the resulting depreciation expense, to achieve quarterly earnings thresholds. We also address whether these actions merely facilitate short-term earnings management or whether firms may trade off investment decisions to deliver earnings. We posit that managers may view capital expenditures as an alternative for earnings considerations because of the process for capital expenditure decision making and the accounting for these investments. Our findings suggest that managers use discretion over capital expenditures to achieve two well-documented earnings thresholds, but that these decisions largely reverse in the following quarter. We document the deferral of capital expenditures to avoid depreciation for industries where the median useful life averages approximately seven years. Cross-sectional tests also suggest that the use of capital expenditures for achieving thresholds varies depending upon the firm's capital intensity, remaining book value of assets, operating cash flow constraints, CEO horizon, and fiscal quarter.

Data Availability: Data are available from the authors upon request.
Cervical compensatory alignment changes following correction of adult thoracic deformity: a multicenter experience in 57 patients with a 2-year follow-up
Authors: Oh Taemin , Scheer Justin K. , Eastlack Robert , Smith Justin S. , Lafage Virginie , Protopsaltis Themistocles S. , Klineberg Eric , Passias Peter G. , Deviren Vedat , Hostin Richard , Gupta Munish , Bess Shay , Schwab Frank , Shaffrey Christopher I. , Ames Christopher P.
Published: March 2015

OBJECT

Alignment changes in the cervical spine that occur following surgical correction for thoracic deformity remain poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to evaluate such changes in a cohort of adults with thoracic deformity treated surgically.

METHODS

The authors conducted a multicenter retrospective analysis of consecutive patients with thoracic deformity. Inclusion criteria for this study were as follows: corrective osteotomy for thoracic deformity, upper-most instrumented vertebra (UIV) between T-1 and T-4, lower-most instrumented vertebra (LIV) at or above L-5 (LIV ≥ L-5) or at the ilium (LIV-ilium), and a minimum radiographic follow-up of 2 years. Sagittal radiographic parameters were assessed preoperatively as well as at 3 months and 2 years postoperatively, including the C-7 sagittal vertical axis (SVA), C2–7 cervical lordosis (CL), C2–7 SVA, T-1 slope (T1S), T1S minus CL (T1S-CL), T2–12 thoracic kyphosis (TK), apical TK, lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence (PI), PI-LL, pelvic tilt (PT), and sacral slope (SS).

RESULTS

Fifty-seven patients with a mean age of 49.1 ± 14.6 years met the study inclusion criteria. The preoperative prevalence of increased CL (CL > 15°) was 48.9%. Both 3-month and 2-year apical TK improved from baseline (p < 0.05, statistically significant). At the 2-year follow-up, only the C2–7 SVA increased significantly from baseline (p = 0.01), whereas LL decreased from baseline (p < 0.01). The prevalence of increased CL was 35.3% at 3 months and 47.8% at 2 years, which did not represent a significant change. Postoperative cervical alignment changes were not significantly different from preoperative values regardless of the LIV (LIV ≥ L-5 or LIV-ilium, p > 0.05 for both). In a subset of patients with a maximum TK ≥ 60° (35 patients) and 3-column osteotomy (38 patients), no significant postoperative cervical changes were seen.

CONCLUSION

Increased CL is common in adult spinal deformity patients with thoracic deformities and, unlike after lumbar corrective surgery, does not appear to normalize after thoracic corrective surgery. Cervical sagittal malalignment (C2–7 SVA) also increases postoperatively. Surgeons should be aware that spontaneous cervical alignment normalization might not occur following thoracic deformity correction.
No additional protection against ventriculitis with prolonged systemic antibiotic prophylaxis for patients treated with antibiotic-coated external ventricular drains
Authors: Murphy Rory K. J. , Liu Betty , Srinath Abhinav , Reynolds Matthew R. , Liu Jingxia , Craighead Martha C. , Camins Bernard C. , Dhar Rajat , Kummer Terrance T. , Zipfel Gregory J.
Published: March 2015

OBJECT

External ventricular drains (EVDs) are commonly used for CSF diversion but pose a risk of ventriculitis, with rates varying in frequency from 2% to 45%. Results of studies examining the utility of prolonged systemic antibiotic therapy for the prevention of EVD-related infection have been contradictory, and no study to date has examined whether this approach confers additional benefit in preventing ventriculitis when used in conjunction with antibiotic-coated EVDs (ac-EVDs).

METHODS

A prospective performance analysis was conducted over 4 years to examine the impact of discontinuing systemic antibiotic prophylaxis after insertion of an ac-EVD on rates of catheter-related ventriculitis. Ventriculitis and other nosocomial infections were ascertained by a qualified infection disease nurse using definitions based on published standards from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, comparing the period when patients received systemic antibiotic therapy for the duration of EVD treatment (Period 1) compared with only for the peri-insertion period (Period 2). Costs were analyzed and compared across the 2 time periods.

RESULTS

Over the 4-year study period, 866 patients were treated with ac-EVDs for a total of 7016 catheter days. There were 8 cases of ventriculitis, for an overall incidence of 0.92%. Rates of ventriculitis did not differ significantly between Period 1 and Period 2 (1.1% vs 0.4%, p = 0.22). The rate of nosocomial infections, however, was significantly higher in Period 1 (2.0% vs 0.0% in Period 2, p = 0.026). Cost savings of $162,516 were realized in Period 2 due to decreased drug costs and savings associated with the reduction in nosocomial infections.

CONCLUSIONS

Prolonged systemic antibiotic therapy following placement of ac-EVDs does not seem to reduce the incidence of catheter-related ventriculitis and was associated with a higher rate of nosocomial infections and increased cost.
Actual and projected incidence rates for chronic subdural hematomas in United States Veterans Administration and civilian populations
Authors: Balser David , Farooq Sameer , Mehmood Talha , Reyes Marleen , Samadani Uzma
Published: March 2015

OBJECT

Chronic subdural hematomas (SDHs) are more common among veterans and elderly persons than among members of the general population; however, precise incidence rates are unknown. The purposes of this study were 1) to determine the current incidence of chronic SDH in a US Veterans Administration (VA) population and 2) to create a mathematical model for determining the current and future incidence of chronic SDH as a function of population age, sex, and comorbidity in the United States VA and civilian populations.

METHODS

To determine the actual number of veterans who received a radiographic diagnosis and surgical treatment for SDH during 2000–2012, the authors used the VISN03 VA database. On the basis of this result and data from outside the United States, they then created a mathematical model accounting for age, sex, and alcohol consumption to predict the incidence of SDH in the VA and civilian populations during 2012–2040.

RESULTS

Of 875,842 unique (different patient) visits to a VA hospital during the study period, 695 new SDHs were identified on CT images. Of these 695 SDHs, 203 (29%) required surgical drainage. The incidence rate was 79.4 SDHs per 100,000 persons, and the age-standardized rate was 39.1 ± 4.74 SDHs per 100,000 persons. The authors' model predicts that incidence rates of chronic SDH in aging United States VA and civilian populations will reach 121.4 and 17.4 cases per 100,000 persons, respectively, by 2030, at which time, approximately 60,000 cases of chronic SDH will occur each year in the United States.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of chronic SDH is rising; SDH is projected to become the most common cranial neurosurgical condition among adults by the year 2030.
Endovascular transvenous cure for ruptured brain arteriovenous malformations in complex cases with high Spetzler-Martin grades
Authors: Iosif Christina , Mendes Georges A. C. , Saleme Suzana , Ponomarjova Sanita , Silveira Eduardo Pedrolo , Caire Francois , Mounayer Charbel
Published: March 2015

OBJECT

Ruptured cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) with deep localization and high Spetzler-Martin grades are associated with considerable challenges regarding nidus eradication treatment. The authors report their experience with curative endovascular transvenous embolization in a series of patients harboring “untreatable” lesions.

METHODS

Between January 2008 and June 2013, a transvenous endovascular embolization protocol was implemented at the authors' institution for consecutive patients with ruptured brain AVMs that were considered incurable by classic endovascular and surgical techniques. Therapeutic decision making was based on Spetzler-Martin grades, AVM location, type of venous drainage, and angioarchitectural evaluation. Complete exclusion of the nidus was the objective of treatment.

RESULTS

Twenty patients (10 male and 10 female, mean age 36.7 ± 17.7 years) were included. Initial Spetzler-Martin grades were III–V for 90.0% of the patients. The lesions were deeply seated in 80% and in eloquent locations in 90% of cases. The preprocedural modified Rankin Scale score was 0–2 for 12 of the 20 patients (60.0%), 3 for 2 patients (10.0%), and 4 for 6 patients (30.0%). The postprocedural clinical status was unchanged for all patients. The procedure was technically feasible in all cases. Procedure-related mortality was 0%. Ninety percent of the patients were independent in their everyday lives (modified Rankin Scale Scores 0–2) at the 6-month follow-up. In all cases but one (95%) the embolization was curative, confirmed by selective DSA at 6 months and 18 months postintervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Single-session endovascular transvenous embolization seems to be a safe and effective curative treatment for patients harboring complex brain AVMs with high Spetzler-Martin grade.
Alcohol Abuse Mediates the Association between Baseline T/C Ratio and Anger Expression in Intimate Partner Violence Perpetrators
Authors: Romero-Martínez Ángel , Lila Marisol , Moya-Albiol Luis
Published: March 2015

The imbalance between testosterone (T) and cortisol (C) levels has been proposed as a possible marker of risk for intimate partner violence (IPV). Moreover, it could be related to a high probability of adopting risky behaviors such as alcohol abuse which, in turn, promotes the onset of IPV. This study tested the potential mediating effect of alcohol consumption on the relationship between baseline T/C ratio and anger expression in IPV perpetrators and non-violent controls. Alcohol consumption was higher in the former than controls. A high baseline T/C ratio was only associated with high anger expression in IPV perpetrators, and this association was mediated by high alcohol consumption. Thus, alcohol abuse may act as a catalytic factor in this relationship, high consumption promoting the onset of IPV. These findings contribute to the development of effective treatment and prevention programs, which could introduce the use of biological markers for preventing the onset, development and recidivism of IPV.
Thermodynamic Analysis of a Waste Heat Driven Vuilleumier Cycle Heat Pump
Authors: Xie Yingbai , Sun Xuejie
Published: March 2015

A Vuilleumier (VM) cycle heat pump is a closed gas cycle driven by heat energy. It has the highest performance among all known heat driven technologies. In this paper, two thermodynamic analyses, including energy and exergy analysis, are carried out to evaluate the application of a VM cycle heat pump for waste heat utilization. For a prototype VM cycle heat pump, equations for theoretical and actual cycles are established. Under the given conditions, the exergy efficiency for the theoretical cycle is 0.23 compared to 0.15 for the actual cycle. This is due to losses taking place in the actual cycle. Reheat losses and flow friction losses account for almost 83% of the total losses. Investigation of the effect of heat source temperature, cycle pressure and speed on the exergy efficiency indicate that the low temperature waste heat is a suitable heat source for a VM cycle heat pump. The selected cycle pressure should be higher than 100 MPa, and 200–300 rpm is the optimum speed.
Experimental Analysis of Cool Traditional Solar Shading Systems for Residential Buildings
Authors: Pisello Anna
Published: March 2015

In recent years there has been a growing interest in the development and thermal-energy analysis of passive solutions for reducing building cooling needs and thus improving indoor thermal comfort conditions. In this view, several studies were carried out about cool roofs and cool coatings, producing acknowledged mitigation effects on urban heat island phenomenon. The purpose of this work is to investigate the thermal-energy performance of cool louvers of shutters, usually installed in residential buildings, compared to dark color traditional shading systems. To this aim, two full-scale prototype buildings were continuously monitored under summer conditions and the role of the cool shutter in reducing the overheating of the shading system and the energy requirements for cooling was analyzed. After an in-lab optical analysis of the cool coating, showing a huge solar reflectance increase with respect to the traditional configuration, i.e., by about 75%, field monitoring results showed that the cool shutter is able to decrease the indoor air temperature up to 2 °C under free floating conditions. The corresponding energy saving was about 25%, with even much higher peaks during very hot summer conditions.
Modeling Innovative Power Take-Off Based on Double-Acting Hydraulic Cylinders Array for Wave Energy Conversion
Authors: Antolín-Urbaneja Juan , Cortés Alain , Cabanes Itziar , Estensoro Patxi , Lasa Joseba , Marcos Marga
Published: March 2015

One of the key systems of a Wave Energy Converter for extraction of wave energy is the Power Take-Off (PTO) device. This device transforms the mechanical energy of a moving body into electrical energy. This paper describes the model of an innovative PTO based on independently activated double-acting hydraulic cylinders array. The model has been developed using a simulation tool, based on a port-based approach to model hydraulics systems. The components and subsystems used in the model have been parameterized as real components and their values experimentally obtained from an existing prototype. In fact, the model takes into account most of the hydraulic losses of each component. The simulations show the flexibility to apply different restraining torques to the input movement depending on the geometrical configuration and the hydraulic cylinders on duty, easily modified by a control law. The combination of these two actions allows suitable flexibility to adapt the device to different sea states whilst optimizing the energy extraction. The model has been validated using a real test bench showing good correlations between simulation and experimental tests.
Wilson’s Disease: A Comprehensive Review of the Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Wu Fei , Wang Jing , Pu Chunwen , Qiao Liang , Jiang Chunmeng
Published: March 2015

Wilson’s disease (WD), also known as hepatolenticular degeneration, is an autosomal recessive inherited disorder resulting from abnormal copper metabolism. Reduced copper excretion causes an excessive deposition of the copper in many organs such as the liver, central nervous system (CNS), cornea, kidney, joints, and cardiac muscle where the physiological functions of the affected organs are impaired. The underlying molecular mechanisms for WD have been extensively studied. It is now believed that a defect in P-type adenosine triphosphatase (ATP7B), the gene encoding the copper transporting P-type ATPase, is responsible for hepatic copper accumulation. Deposited copper in the liver produces toxic effects via modulating several molecular pathways. WD can be a lethal disease if left untreated. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms causing the aberrant copper deposition and organ damage is the key to developing effective management approaches.
Favourable IFNL3 Genotypes Are Associated with Spontaneous Clearance and Are Differentially Distributed in Aboriginals in Canadian HIV-Hepatitis C Co-Infected Individuals
Authors: Moqueet Nasheed , Infante-Rivard Claire , Platt Robert , Young Jim , Cooper Curtis , Hull Mark , Walmsley Sharon , Klein Marina , Investigators the
Published: March 2015

Canadian Aboriginals are reported to clear Hepatitis C (HCV) more frequently. We tested the association of spontaneous clearance and three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) near the Interferon-lambda 3 (IFNL3) gene (rs12979860, rs8099917, functional variant rs8103142) and compared the SNP frequencies between HIV-HCV co-infected whites and Aboriginals from the Canadian Co-infection Cohort. HCV treatment-naïve individuals with at least two HCV RNA tests were included (n = 538). A spontaneous clearance case was defined as someone with two consecutive HCV RNA-negative tests, at least six months apart. Data were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards adjusted for sex and ethnicity. Advantageous variants and haplotypes were more common in Aboriginals than Caucasians: 57% vs. 46% had the rs12979860 CC genotype, respectively; 58% vs. 48%, rs8103142 TT; 74% vs. 67%, the rs12979860 C allele; and 67% vs. 64% the TCT haplotype with three favourable alleles. The adjusted Hazard Ratios (95% CI) for spontaneous clearance were: rs12979860: 3.80 (2.20, 6.54); rs8099917: 5.14 (2.46, 10.72); and rs8103142: 4.36 (2.49, 7.62). Even after adjusting for rs12979860, Aboriginals and females cleared HCV more often, HR (95% CI) = 1.53 (0.89, 2.61) and 1.42 (0.79, 2.53), respectively. Our results suggest that favourable IFNL3 genotypes are more common among Aboriginals than Caucasians, and may partly explain the higher HCV clearance rates seen among Aboriginals.
High-Precision Land-Cover-Land-Use GIS Mapping and Land Availability and Suitability Analysis for Grass Biomass Production in the Aroostook River Valley, Maine, USA
Authors: Wang Chunzeng , Johnston Jason , Vail David , Dickinson Jared , Putnam David
Published: March 2015

High-precision land-cover-land-use GIS mapping was performed in four major townships in Maine’s Aroostook River Valley, using on-screen digitization and direct interpretation of very high spatial resolution satellite multispectral imagery (15–60 cm) and high spatial resolution LiDAR data (2 m) and the field mapping method. The project not only provides the first-ever high-precision land-use maps for northern Maine, but it also yields accurate hectarage estimates of different land-use types, in particular grassland, defined as fallow land, pasture, and hay field. This enables analysis of potential land availability and suitability for grass biomass production and other sustainable land uses. The results show that the total area of fallow land in the four towns is 7594 hectares, which accounts for 25% of total open land, and that fallow plots equal to or over four hectares in size total 4870, or 16% of open land. Union overlay analysis, using the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) soil data, indicates that only a very small percentage of grassland (4.9%) is on “poorly-drained” or “very-poorly-drained” soils, and that most grassland (85%) falls into the “farmland of state importance” or “prime farmland” categories, as determined by NRCS. It is concluded that Maine’s Aroostook River Valley has an ample base of suitable, underutilized land for producing grass biomass.
Influence of Pea Protein Aggregates on the Structure and Stability of Pea Protein/Soybean Polysaccharide Complex Emulsions
Authors: Yin Baoru , Zhang Rujing , Yao Ping
Published: March 2015

The applications of plant proteins in the food and beverage industry have been hampered by their precipitation in acidic solution. In this study, pea protein isolate (PPI) with poor dispersibility in acidic solution was used to form complexes with soybean soluble polysaccharide (SSPS), and the effects of PPI aggregates on the structure and stability of PPI/SSPS complex emulsions were investigated. Under acidic conditions, high pressure homogenization disrupts the PPI aggregates and the electrostatic attraction between PPI and SSPS facilitates the formation of dispersible PPI/SSPS complexes. The PPI/SSPS complex emulsions prepared from the PPI containing aggregates prove to possess similar droplet structure and similar stability compared with the PPI/SSPS emulsions produced from the PPI in which the aggregates have been previously removed by centrifugation. The oil droplets are protected by PPI/SSPS complex interfacial films and SSPS surfaces. The emulsions show long-term stability against pH and NaCl concentration changes. This study demonstrates that PPI aggregates can also be used to produce stable complex emulsions, which may promote the applications of plant proteins in the food and beverage industry.
Can We Translate Vitamin D Immunomodulating Effect on Innate and Adaptive Immunity to Vaccine Response?
Authors: Lang Pierre , Aspinall Richard
Published: March 2015

Vitamin D (VitD), which is well known for its classic role in the maintenance of bone mineral density, has now become increasingly studied for its extra-skeletal roles. It has an important influence on the body’s immune system and modulates both innate and adaptive immunity and regulates the inflammatory cascade. In this review our aim was to describe how VitD might influence immune responsiveness and its potential modulating role in vaccine immunogenicity. In the first instance, we consider the literature that may provide molecular and genetic support to the idea that VitD status may be related to innate and/or adaptive immune response with a particular focus on vaccine immunogenicity and then discuss observational studies and controlled trials of VitD supplementation conducted in humans. Finally, we conclude with some knowledge gaps surrounding VitD and vaccine response, and that it is still premature to recommend “booster” of VitD at vaccination time to enhance vaccine response.
Maternal Fish Oil Supplementation in Pregnancy: A 12 Year Follow-Up of a Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Meldrum Suzanne , Dunstan Janet , Foster Jonathan , Simmer Karen , Prescott Susan
Published: March 2015

A number of trials have been undertaken to assess whether the intake of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LCPUFA) during pregnancy can influence the neurological development of the offspring, yet no consensus from these trials has been reached. We aimed to investigate the long-term effects (12 years) of fish oil supplementation in pregnancy on neurodevelopment, including cognition, language and fine motor skills. In a follow up of a previously published randomised controlled trial of 98 pregnant women, their children were assessed at 12 years of age using a battery of neurodevelopmental assessments. Fifty participants were assessed at 12 years, with 25 participant’s mothers receiving fish oil supplementation, and 25 receiving control capsules. There were no significant differences for any of the assessment measures completed. Our data indicate that fish oil supplementation during pregnancy does not influence the cognition, language or fine motor skills of children in late primary school (12 years of age).
An Integrated Approach to Mitigation Wetland Site Selection: A Case Study in Gwacheon, Korea
Authors: Lee Junga , Ellis Christopher , Choi Yun , You Soojin , Chon Jinhyung
Published: March 2015

This paper presents an integrated approach to mitigation wetland site selection using functional landscape connectivity and landscape structure. This approach enables landscape designers to evaluate the relative priorities of mitigation wetland areas based on functional landscape connectivity and wildlife mobility, as well as landscape structure, composition, and configuration. The least-cost path method is used to evaluate candidate sites for mitigation wetlands with regard to wildlife movement. A set of assessments for landscape indices using FRAGSTATS was applied to identify suitable mitigation wetland areas on the basis of landscape connectivity, composition, and configuration. The study was conducted in Gwacheon, Korea, where there are plans for regional development that will change the landscape. In the first step, a group of 14 candidate sites is identified via analysis of functional landscape connectivity using the least-cost path method. In the second step, candidate mitigation wetland areas are ranked according to landscape connectivity and composition. The five mitigation wetland areas that were found to be suitable were analyzed based on landscape configuration at the class level. This study demonstrates that functional landscape connectivity and landscape structure are important aspects to consider when identifying suitable sites for mitigation wetland planning and restoration.
Cholera Toxin B: One Subunit with Many Pharmaceutical Applications
Authors: Baldauf Keegan , Royal Joshua , Hamorsky Krystal , Matoba Nobuyuki
Published: March 2015

Cholera, a waterborne acute diarrheal disease caused by Vibrio cholerae, remains prevalent in underdeveloped countries and is a serious health threat to those living in unsanitary conditions. The major virulence factor is cholera toxin (CT), which consists of two subunits: the A subunit (CTA) and the B subunit (CTB). CTB is a 55 kD homopentameric, non-toxic protein binding to the GM1 ganglioside on mammalian cells with high affinity. Currently, recombinantly produced CTB is used as a component of an internationally licensed oral cholera vaccine, as the protein induces potent humoral immunity that can neutralize CT in the gut. Additionally, recent studies have revealed that CTB administration leads to the induction of anti-inflammatory mechanisms in vivo. This review will cover the potential of CTB as an immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory agent. We will also summarize various recombinant expression systems available for recombinant CTB bioproduction.
Both ERK1 and ERK2 Are Required for Enterovirus 71 (EV71) Efficient Replication
Authors: Zhu Meng , Duan Hao , Gao Meng , Zhang Hao , Peng Yihong
Published: March 2015

It has been demonstrated that MEK1, one of the two MEK isoforms in Raf-MEK-ERK1/2 pathway, is essential for successful EV71 propagation. However, the distinct function of ERK1 and ERK2 isoforms, the downstream kinases of MEKs, remains unclear in EV71 replication. In this study, specific ERK siRNAs and selective inhibitor U0126 were applied. Silencing specific ERK did not significantly impact on the EV71-caused biphasic activation of the other ERK isoform, suggesting the EV71-induced activations of ERK1 and ERK2 were non-discriminative and independent to one another. Knockdown of either ERK1 or ERK2 markedly impaired progeny EV71 propagation (both by more than 90%), progeny viral RNA amplification (either by about 30% to 40%) and protein synthesis (both by around 70%), indicating both ERK1 and ERK2 were critical and not interchangeable to EV71 propagation. Moreover, suppression of EV71 replication by inhibiting both early and late phases of ERK1/2 activation showed no significant difference from that of only blocking the late phase, supporting the late phase activation was more importantly responsible for EV71 life cycle. Taken together, this study for the first time identified both ERK1 and ERK2 were required for EV71 efficient replication and further verified the important role of MEK1-ERK1/2 in EV71 replication.
Effect of Disc Filtration with and without Addition of Flocculent on Nano- and Micro-Particles and Their Associated Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Stormwater
Authors: Nielsen Katrine , Mørch-Madsen Andreas , Mikkelsen Peter , Eriksson Eva
Published: March 2015

Many municipalities in Denmark and around Europe currently work towards separating stormwater and sewage. In existing urban areas this may imply disconnecting stormwater from the old combined sewer systems suffering from hydraulic overloading and discharging directly to nearby surface waters. Stormwater runoff may, however, be heavily polluted and Best Available Technologies (BAT) are therefore needed to treat the stormwater before discharge. The aim here was to determine the sizes of particles found in stormwater from roads and to evaluate the use of a cationic organic flocculant to increase the size of the particles and thereby increase the removal efficiency of a 10 µm woven polyester disc filter. The samples were collected in connection with a project testing a pilot scale disc filter for treating stormwater runoff. The micro-sized particles were found to be mainly below 10 µm (6.9–19 µm) and nano-sized particles were also observed (ca. 76–228 nm). The flocculent increased the observed particle micrometer sizes by 46% and the removal of particle-associate Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) was confirmed. The majority of the particles were, however, still below 10 µm after addition of flocculant, which shows that application of flocculants with the woven disc filter technology for stormwater treatment needs further refinement.
Microwave assisted synthesis and characterisation of a zinc oxide/tobacco mosaic virus hybrid material. An active hybrid semiconductor in a field-effect transistor device
Authors: Sanctis Shawn , Hoffmann Rudolf C , Eiben Sabine , Schneider Jörg J
Published: March 2015

Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) has been employed as a robust functional template for the fabrication of a TMV/zinc oxide field effect transistor (FET). A microwave based approach, under mild conditions was employed to synthesize stable zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles, employing a molecular precursor. Insightful studies of the decomposition of the precursor were done using NMR spectroscopy and material characterization of the hybrid material derived from the decomposition was achieved using dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), grazing incidence X-ray diffractometry (GI-XRD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). TEM and DLS data confirm the formation of crystalline ZnO nanoparticles tethered on top of the virus template. GI-XRD investigations exhibit an orientated nature of the deposited ZnO film along the c-axis. FET devices fabricated using the zinc oxide mineralized virus template material demonstrates an operational transistor performance which was achieved without any high-temperature post-processing steps. Moreover, a further improvement in FET performance was observed by adjusting an optimal layer thickness of the deposited ZnO on top of the TMV. Such a bio-inorganic nanocomposite semiconductor material accessible using a mild and straightforward microwave processing technique could open up new future avenues within the field of bio-electronics.
Distribution of deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, and their respective modified analogues in milling fractions of naturally contaminated wheat grains
Authors: Schwake-Anduschus C. , Proske M. , Sciurba E. , Muenzing K. , Koch M. , Maul R.
Published: March 2015

Mycotoxins are among the most abundant contaminants in food and feed worldwide. Therefore, in the EU maximum levels are established, e.g. for the frequently occurringFusarium toxins deoxynivalenol (DON) and zearalenone (ZEA). Additional to DON and ZEA, modified mycotoxins are present in naturally contaminated grain products contributing significantly to the exposure of humans and animals with mycotoxins. Up to now data on the spatial distribution of many (masked) mycotoxins in the kernels of wheat are missing. The aim of the present study was to investigate the amounts of DON and ZEA as well as their most abundant derivatives DON-3-glucoside (DON-3G), 3- and 15-acetyl-DON, ZEA-14- and 16-glucoside and ZEA-14-sulphate (ZEA-14S) in mill fractions of naturally contaminated wheat batches using HPLC-MS/MS. The investigated distribution pattern in ten milling fractions is comparable among the three investigated different wheat batches. Interestingly, DON and DON-3G were found to be present to similar amounts in all fractions. In bran, the levels were only slightly higher than in the endosperm. By contrast, for ZEA and ZEA-14S a significantly higher amount of toxin is located in the fibre-rich fractions. The relative mass proportion of DON-3G comprises for only between 2.9 and 11.2% of the free DON, while the relative mass proportion of ZEA-14S is estimated to even exceed the amount of free ZEA in certain fractions. Acetylated DON derivatives and ZEA-glucosides were only detected in low amounts. The experimental results show that a significant reduction of the ZEA and ZEA-14S level in wheat flour is feasible by applying milling technology strategies. However, the almost evenly distribution of DON and DON-3G in all fractions does not allow for the technological removal of relevant toxin amounts. Furthermore, the relative share of masked forms was higher for ZEA derivatives than for the DON conjugates in the investigated wheat lots.
Estimating the burden of market loss due to aflatoxins in maize: methods and estimates for Thailand
Authors: Lubulwa G.A.S. , Siriacha P. , Markwell P.J. , Pitt J.I.
Published: March 2015

This communication updates and enhances earlier estimates of the burden of market loss associated with aflatoxin contamination of maize in Thailand using two unrelated data sets. The first, supplied by Mars Petcare (Thailand) Ltd. was compiled in 2010 from two sets of 295 random samples of maize, one collected at harvest and the second after drying, from two regions that produce more than 70% of the commercially grown maize in Thailand. The second data set was compiled between 1989 and 1993 under a collaborative research project funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation and project partner countries in South East Asia. It provides aflatoxin concentrations in 108 maize samples randomly selected from retail markets in Thailand. This study shows that, even with the low aflatoxin levels found in the first data set, a burden of economic loss in Thailand exists, estimated here at about US$ 6.9 million per annum (about 0.05% of agricultural sector gross domestic product in Thailand in 2009). If the higher aflatoxin levels in the second data set are representative, then the burden of economic loss in Thailand could exceed US$ 100 million per annum (about 0.85% of agricultural sector gross domestic product), based on 2009 production and prices data. Most of the losses are borne by producers of chicken meat, eggs, pig meat, duck meat, freshwater fish, milk and maize, in descending order of magnitude of loss. This communication enhances earlier estimates by broadening the scope to include milk and fresh water fish, by disaggregating poultry meat into chicken and duck meat, and by extending the analysis to cover the impacts of aflatoxins under a low aflatoxin level scenario.
Preparation and properties of high-strength recycled concrete in cold areas
Authors: Haitao Y. , Shizhu T.
Published: March 2015

Concrete waste was processed into recycled coarse aggregate (RCA), subsequently used to prepare high-strength (> 50 MPa) recycled concrete. The resulting material was tested for mechanical performance (ULS). The recycled concrete was prepared to the required design strength by adjusting the water/cement ratio. Concrete containing 0, 20, 50, 80 and 100% recycled aggregate was prepared and studied for workability, deformability and durability. The ultimate aim of the study was to prepare high-strength recycled concrete apt for use in cold climates as a theoretical and experimental basis for the deployment of recycled high-strength concrete in civil engineering and building construction.
Effect of Er on Microstructure and Hardness of Al-Zn-In Alloy
Authors: Li Hang , Xu Zheng Bing , Zeng Jian Min , Li Heng , Chen Rong , Lu Yan Yan
Published: March 2015

A new sacrificial Al-5Zn-0.03In-Er alloy was developed with improved microstructure consisting of Er rich phase and refined α-Al. This paper focused on the influence of Er as alloying element on the microstructure and hardness of Al-5Zn-0.03In alloy. With the increase of Er content, the α-Al was refined and the hardness was improved, at the same time a amount of Er rich phases and particles also appeared. The segregation of Er in the front of the solidification interface results in the refining of α-Al. The higher hardness of the Er containing alloy make it possilbe to apply the alloy under a complicated enviorment where the mechanical property is requred. It is concluded that 4 wt% Er is optimum to obtain the refined microstructure and proper hardness.
Isothermal Crystallization Behavior of Cu42Zr42Al8Ag8 BMG Investigated with Electrical Resistance Measurement
Authors: Man Da Hu , Li Qiang
Published: March 2015

The isothermal crystallization behavior of the Cu42Zr42Al8Ag8 bulk metallic glasse (BMG) was studied by the electrical resistance method. The increasing local activation energy means that the crystallization of the Cu42Zr42Al8Ag8 BMG becomes more and more difficult during the isothermal process. In the stage that the crystallized volume fraction falls into the range of 25–85%, the crystallization of the Cu42Zr42Al8Ag8 BMG is diffusion-controlled growth with a decreasing nucleation rate.
Effects of Sintering Temperature on Microstructure and Wear Properties of Al2O3 Particle Reinforced Al Composites
Authors: Wang Tian Guo , Qin Qun , Liang Qi Chao
Published: March 2015

Al2O3 particle reinforced aluminum composites were prepared by powder metallurgy process. The effects of sintering temperature on microstructure and tribological characteristic were investigated with the combination of experimental results and theoretical analysis. The composite sintered at 550 oC shows high relative density and strong interfacial bonding, whereas the composites sintered at lower and higher temperature indicate no interfacial bonding and poor interfacial bonding, respectively. The surface morphology observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicated that the grains of the Al-based composites sintered at 550 oC were uniform and compact, which were in agreement with the properties of high density and tribological properties.
Study on Multi-Alloy Ingots Produced Using Hot-Top DC Casting Approach
Authors: Han Xing , Cui Jian Zhong
Published: March 2015

In this paper, a new approach that using hot-top DC casting process to produce multi-alloy ingots is present. The different type and size of composite and cladding ingots (4045/3004/4045 three-layer composite ingots with section 630mm by 1500mm and 4045/3003 cladding ingot with Φ140mm/Φ110mm in diameter) are fabricated by this approach. The macro-morphologies and microstructures of the ingots, the temperature distribution and the element distribution in the interface zone were investigated, and the interface bonding strength was measured. The results show that the solid supporting layer formed on the cooling plates plays a key role in the casting process of composite ingots. The solid supporting layer can prevent the blending of two melts by resisting the impact of alloy melt, which ensures the stable casting process and casting high quality composite ingots, because the contact height is increased using hot-top DC casting. In addition, fabrication and properties of 4045/3004/4045 three-layer composite ingots with section 630mm by 1500mm are reported in detail.
Effect of Basalt Fibers on Rheological Property of Asphalt Mortar
Authors: Wang Ning , Li Chun Sheng , Xu Chuan Yun
Published: March 2015

In this paper, we used basalt fiber as an additive for improving the pavement performance of asphalt. We explored the effect of basalt fiber on the rheological property of asphalt mortar by dynamic shear rheometer techniques. Results indicate that basalt fiber causes an increase in complex modulus, storage modulus, loss modulus and rutting factor, while decrease in the phase angle and temperature susceptibility of asphalt mortar remarkablely. The regression relation between rutting factor and temperature closely fits Model ExpDec1. This improvement effect may be closely related to the microstructure of fibers such as large surface, polar groups on the surface, and the distribution state of fibers in asphalt mortar.