bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-destructive evaluation of composite beams of steel and concrete connected by adherence after monotonic tests
Authors: Diógenes Hidelbrando J. F. , El Debs Ana L. H. C. , El Debs Mounir K.
Published: December 2014

For new structures, or even retrofitting old ones, the speed of construction has a significant impact not only on costs but also by potential harmful effects (noise, pollution, traffic of vehicles and people, etc.) during the process. In this way, it is desirable a construction period as short as possible. Steel concrete composite structures respond satisfactorily to this need, since they have steel and concrete elements that can be industrially pre-fabricated, and only lifting and assembly are developed in-loco. However, the connections between steel and concrete used in composite structures normally are not well adapted to the use of precast concrete slabs, reducing the speed of assembling and also the durability of the produced floor. The advances of technology of materials and construction methods have made possible the development of new structural systems aimed to solve these shortcomings. In this context, the connections by adherence have been considered very promising. This paper presents dynamic non-destructive tests of the composite sections aiming to determine their residual stiffness after pseudo static tests. Four full scale composite beam prototypes using precast concrete slabs and two full scale composite beam prototypes using cast in place slabs were tested. The results revealed that after the strength peak of the beam-slab connection the prototypes stiffness was reduced of about 50%.
Repair of Impacted Concrete Bridge Beams
Authors: Harik Issam , Peiris Abheetha
Published: December 2014

Reinforced and prestressed concrete bridge superstructures impacted by overheight trucks may require the bridge to be categorized as structurally deficient in case the impact causes moderate to severe damage. Consequently, load posting on the bridge may be required. In some instances, the bridge will be closed. A number of incidences have been reported where concrete blocks have come loose from the impacted region, days or weeks following the impact, and fell on vehicles traveling under the impacted beams causing harm, or even death, to the vehicle occupants.

This paper presents a two-stage approach for the containment and repair of the damage area in impacted concrete bridge beams. The first approach outlines the immediate action following an impact to prevent loose concrete blocks from falling on the traveling public. The second approach outlines the methodology for repairing the impacted area and also providing containment in the event future impacts were to occur. A discussion of the advantages and limitations of this approach, along with the lessons learned from the field applications are presented in the paper
The Impact Effect of Highway Bridge due to Heavy Vehicle
Authors: Viet Hung Tran
Published: December 2014

The dynamic response depends on the bridge span, stiffness and surface roughness, and vehicle dynamic characteristics. Unlike earthquake loads which can cause vibration in bridge longitudinal, transverse, and vertical directions, moving vehicles mainly excite vertical vibration of the bridge. The highway bridges have been constructed a lot in Vietnam recently. These bridges have been designed with AASHTO LRFD and moving truck load is HL93 loading. However, the vehicles are actually different with HL93 loading. Moving loads caused the impact effects, the changing of frequencies of bridge structure. The heavy vehicles were considered in this study. The impact effect of the highway bridge due to the actual heavy vehicle is investigated and evaluated. Comparison of results from both computations of dynamic analysis and loading test are shown in the paper.
The longest timber pedestrian bridge in Europe
Authors: Dzhandzhgava Aslan
Published: December 2014

A timber pedestrian bridge has been constructed in Anaklia within the coastal boulevard the length of which is 504,0m. The bridge crosses Enguri River at its mouth with the Black Sea. The bridge is located in the centre of the town pedestrian zone. Pursuant to the location and purpose of the structure a huge importance was paid to its architecture. According to the Client’s instructions, the structure should be of effective architecture and harmonized structure that would become the symbol of renovated Anaklia. The design was done by Georgian (LTD Transproject – General designer) and German (LTD Leonhardt Andrä und Partner, LTD HESS TIMBER, LTD Fast+Epp) engineers.
Footbridge over the Tirón River in Haro (Spain). A Sustainable design inspired by the wine culture
Authors: Beade Hector , Capellán Guillermo , Alfonso Pablo , García Marianela , Sobrino Raquel
Published: December 2014

The town of Haro, located in the northern part of Spain, is one of the most relevant sites of La Rioja region, well known because of its important high-quality red wine production. Wine is the vital and cultural expression of the town and is at the same time its main tourist interest, as it hosts some of the oldest and best known wine cellars of the region. The new footbridge is part of a pedestrian connection to link the historic centre with the district where most of these cellars are located. The design intends to be attractive, adapted to the soft topography of the river banks, sustainable, strongly related with the wine culture of the region, but without forgetting elegance as a main target. These objectives were achieved with an innovative three-span variable-depth beam design, made of stainless steel and with a composite-wood decking. An efficient structural scheme and the reduction of maintenance costs make compatible the use of high-quality materials with a reasonable budget.
Integrated Life-Cycle Analysis of Steel-Composite Bridges – Conclusions from a European Case Study
Authors: Maier Philippa , Kuhlmann Ulrike , Perdigão Vera , Barros Paulo , Gervásio Helena , Friedrich Heinz
Published: December 2014

Within the European research project “Sustainable Steel-Composite Bridges in Built Environment” (SBRI) a holistic approach was applied by combining analyses of environmental, economic and functional aspects. As bridge authorities were involved a valuable collection of real bridge data and a life-cycle scenario including maintenance strategies were elaborated. The integrated life-cycle analysis combining LCA, LCC and LCP is described here. Results of a case study for different motorway crossings are presented. Conclusions and recommendations for a sustainable life-cycle design are given.
Performance of early RC structures of high cultural value in view of future utilization
Authors: Brühwiler Eugen
Published: December 2014

Three early reinforced concrete structures of high cultural values located in Switzerland are investigated in view of their future utilization: (1) Schrähbach Bridge, probably the World’s first stiffened arch bridge structure designed and built in 1923 by Robert Maillart, (2) Hauteroche Mansion, a three storey monolithic reinforced concrete building designed and built by François Hennebique in 1913, and (3) Guillermaux Bridge from 1920 which is a flat three hinge arch bridge designed by Louis Bosset. Examination of the actual performance revealed that all three structures can be restored and strengthened to meet the requirements of future modern utilization. While in one case the early RC structure is condemned to be demolished and replaced, a restoration project is in progress for the future utilization of the two other structures. From these three cases it must be concluded that appropriate treatment of and interventions on structures with adequate respect of cultural values depend primarily on the motivation and know-how of the persons involved as well as on the legal and regulative bases. Technical facts and economic evidence are not always sufficient for the preservation of structures of high cultural value. Yet, preservation of cultural values may go hand in hand with socio-economic, environmental and technical requirements. These requirements are often met by the application of advanced structural engineering methods specific to existing structures.
Aerodynamic Flutter Control of Parallel Cable-Stayed Bridges
Authors: Yang Yongxin , Zhou Rui , Ge Yao Jun
Published: December 2014

When the main girders of two parallel bridges which locate in tandem are very close, the aerodynamic interference effect between these two girders may have complicated influence on the aerodynamic performance of both windward and leeward bridges. In some situations it will cause considerably loss in aeroelastic stability. In this paper, the aerodynamic performance of two parallel long-span cable-stayed bridges with Π Shaped sections was investigated based on a series of wind tunnel tests. Since the flutter performance of the parallel bridges cannot meet the requirement, a comprehensive evaluation and comparison of different aerodynamic flutter control measures, including wind fairing, vertical stabilizing plate, horizontal splitting plate and so on, were conducted. Based on these results, the aerodynamic optimization of the bridge girders was carried out and valuable conclusions were finally reached.
Fire on the New Little Belt Bridge
Authors: Bitsch Niels , Tuxen Jens Kristian , Larsen Erik Stoklund , Pedersen Torben , Boesen Jørgen
Published: December 2014

One of the main cables on The New Little Belt Bridge was in the summer 2013 exposed by direct fire from a burning truck parked right beside its lowest point. The fire was fully defeated within 30 minutes but the fire exposure had lasted for around 45 minutes. The main cable capacity was luckily not violated by the heating but one suspender had to be replaced. Many other repair works, on bridge elements with minor or no impact on the structural integrity of the bridge, was carried out in the coming weeks and it took in total 4 month before the traffic on the bridge was fully restored, except for special heavy transports. The owner of the bridge, The Danish Road Directorate, has based on the experiences from the fire, started up a revision of the existing risk analyses study in order to support a decision on possible future actions in order to reduce the risk for fire related damages. For the responsible engineers it is recommended to be prepared with information and knowledge that makes it possible to carry out immediate assessment of the remaining structural integrity of the bridge.
Experimental study on the natural vibration characteristics of a steel composite girder bridge before and after reconstruction of the RC slab
Authors: Komuro Masato , Kishi Norimitsu , Kawase Ryoji
Published: December 2014

In order to investigate the natural vibration characteristics of a steel composite girder bridge before and after replacement of the RC slab, micro-tremor measurement tests after traffic passing were conducted. Here, 51 high-sensitive servo-type vibration meters and a wireless LAN system were used to measure the vibration acceleration of the bridge. The results obtained from this study were as follows: 1) natural vibration frequencies and modes can be appropriately evaluated by conducting the proposed micro-tremor measuring test; and 2) since natural vibration frequencies were increased and all vibration modes were improved to be more symmetrical and/or

anti-symmetrical, it is seen that the bridge stiffness is upgraded by replacing the RC slab.
Computer Vision Techniques for Bridge Bearing Condition Assessment using Visual Inspection Photographs
Authors: Cho Jun Sang , Park Jong Chil , Gil Heung Bae , Kim Hyun Joong , An Ho Hyun
Published: December 2014

This paper is proposed a computer vision technique for measuring the static displacement of bridges with changes in temperature using a general photograph, which is stored in the database of the bridge management system (BMS) for visual inspection. Also, the proposed methodology is developed using open source computer vision (OpenCV) language program and validated both in the laboratory using a bearing model and on an actual bridge. The proposed numerical procedure shows that the nontarget imagebased technique using Gaussian highpass filters in the frequency domain, projective linear transformation (PIT) and digital image correlation (DIC) algorithm can extract the displacement of a bearing. It is concluded that this technique is able to obtain the bridge bearing condition assessment.
Fatigue Life Evaluation of Welded Railway Bridges Based on Field Measurements
Authors: Lukačević Ivan , Dujmovic Darko , Androic Boris
Published: December 2014

Fatigue life evaluation of existing bridges is an important task especially for bridges reaching design life or subjected to increasing traffic volume. This paper presents probabilistic fatigue life assessment of welded railway bridge based on field measurement and numerical methods which can be applied to any fatigue sensitive structure. Due to the unavailability of details for setting up measuring devices, scope of the measurements etc., it is not always possible conduct measurements for all critical details. Field measurements in some critical details in the structure can give the basis for reliability analyses and fatigue life assessment in all critical details. In this paper fatigue life is defined as time when critical detail in structure reaches target reliability level. Fatigue reliability analysis is based on S-N concept and Miner’s linear damage hypothesis taking into account model uncertainties and different probability density functions of stress ranges.
Finite Element Model Updating of a High Building based on the experimental modal parameters
Authors: Nguyen Khanh , Río Olga , Frutos Borja , Avellanosa Pedro , Rodriguez Alejandro
Published: December 2014

Ambient vibration testing is the most economical non-destructive testing method to acquire vibration data from large civil engineering structures. Using the modal identification techniques the modal parameters can be determined which are effectively used as validation criteria in the context of finite element model updating to develop reliable finite element models of large engineering structures. These updated models will be useful both for predicting the dynamic behaviour and for assisting in the identification of structural damage.

In this paper, the finite element model updating of a case study (a twelve story reinforced concrete building) is presented. The modal identification results obtained from ambient vibration measurements of the building are the natural frequencies and the mode shapes of the first lateral and torsional modes which are the dynamic characteristics of interest of this study. The finite element model of the building is developed from the information provided in the design documentation. A sensitivity analysis is carried out to determine the most sensitive parameters for FE model. The updating is performed using the genetic algorithm. As results, a good correlation between measured and calculated modal parameters is obtained with parameters updated.
Ledermix Pulp treatment in a permanent molar: A case report
Authors: Karima Fahd AA , Sultana Asma , Chowdhury Tazdik G , Alam Md Samsul , Wahiduzzaman Mohammed
Published: December 2014

This case report describes the Indirect Pulp Treatment (IPT) of deep carious lesion in a permanent molar with Ledemix. A 18 years old male patient reported discomfort associated with thermal stimulation on the mandibular right first permanent molar. Radiographically revealed a deep buccal carious lesion, very close to the pulp. periapical radiolucency and periodontal space thickening was absent. Pulp sensitivity was confirmed by thermal pulp vitality tests. Based on the main complaint and the clinical and radiographic examinations, the treatment plan was established to preserve pulp vitality. Clinical procedures consisted of removing the infected dentin and lining the caries-affected dentin with ledermix cement, the tooth was restored with composite cement. After 12 month follow-up, no clinical or radiographic pathological findings were found. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/updcj.v4i1.21164 Update Dent. Coll. j: 2014; 4 (1): 31-37
Development of a Paper Actuator with PEDOT:PSS Thin-Films as An Electrode
Authors: Hara Yusuke , Yamaguchi Yoshinori
Published: December 2014

A paper actuator was fabricated from poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) doped with poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) by a wet process without organic solvents. The paper actuator had a capacitor structure, with a cationic polymer as an insulating layer sandwiched between two PEDOT:PSS films as the electrodes. The thickness of the paper actuator was approximately 36 mm. We measured its displacement as a function of applied voltage and frequency; the maximum displacement was 2.2 mm at 1.5 V and 1 Hz.
Effects of Adding Corn Dried Distiller Grains with Solubles (DDGS) to the Dairy Cow Diet and Effects of Bedding in Dairy Cow Slurry on Fugitive Methane Emissions
Authors: Massé Daniel , Jarret Guillaume , Benchaar Chaouki , Hassanat Fadi
Published: December 2014

The specific objectives of this experiment were to investigate the effects of adding 10% or 30% corn dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) to the dairy cow diet and the effects of bedding type (wood shavings, straw or peat moss) in dairy slurry on fugitive CH4 emissions. The addition of DDGS10 to the dairy cow diet significantly increased (29%) the daily amount of fat excreted in slurry compared to the control diet. The inclusion of DDGS30 in the diet increased the daily amounts of excreted DM, volatile solids (VS), fat, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and hemicellulose by 18%, 18%, 70%, 30%, 15% and 53%, respectively, compared to the control diet. During the storage experiment, daily fugitive CH4 emissions showed a significant increase of 15% (p < 0.05) for the slurry resulting from the corn DDGS30 diet. The addition of wood shavings and straw did not have a significant effect on daily fugitive CH4 emissions relative to the control diet, whereas the addition of peat moss caused a significant increase of 27% (p < 0.05) in fugitive CH4 emissions.
Differences in Manioc Diversity Among Five Ethnic Groups of the Colombian Amazon
Authors: Peña-Venegas Clara , Stomph Tjeerd , Verschoor Gerard , Lopez-Lavalle Luis , Struik Paul
Published: December 2014

Manioc is an important root crop in the tropics and the most important staple food in the Amazon. Manioc is diverse but its diversity has not yet been clearly associated with environmental or social factors. Our study evaluates how variation in edaphic environments and in social factors influences manioc diversity among five ethnic groups of the Amazon region of Colombia. Inventories of landraces, genetic analysis of manioc diversity, visits to farmers’ swiddens and interviews with farmers were carried out during two years of field work. Morphotypic and genotypic diversity of manioc were large. The different ethnic groups of our study cultivate different sweet and bitter manioc landraces which they select and maintain in accordance with their ancestral rules and norms. Differences in available environments among indigenous communities (such as the presence of different soils) did not markedly affect manioc morphotypic or genotypic diversity, while social factors considerably influenced observed manioc diversity. Manioc diversity was explained by two parallel processes of manioc diversification: volunteer seedling selection and manioc seed exchange. We argue that, for a full understanding of manioc diversity, indigenous knowledge, as well as morphological and genetic variation should be taken into account.
Statistical Power Law due to Reservoir Fluctuations and the Universal Thermostat Independence Principle
Authors: Biró Tamás , Ván Péter , Barnaföldi Gergely , Ürmössy Károly
Published: December 2014

Certain fluctuations in particle number, \(n\), at fixed total energy, \(E\), lead exactly to a cut-power law distribution in the one-particle energy, \(\omega\), via the induced fluctuations in the phase-space volume ratio, \(\Omega_n(E-\omega)/\Omega_n(E)=(1-\omega/E)^n\). The only parameters are \(1/T=\langle \beta \rangle=\langle n \rangle/E\) and \(q=1-1/\langle n \rangle + \Delta n^2/\langle n \rangle^2\). For the binomial distribution of \(n\) one obtains \(q=1-1/k\), for the negative binomial \(q=1+1/(k+1)\). These results also represent an approximation for general particle number distributions in the reservoir up to second order in the canonical expansion \(\omega \ll E\). For general systems the average phase-space volume ratio \(\langle e^{S(E-\omega)}/e^{S(E)}\rangle\) to second order delivers \(q=1-1/C+\Delta \beta^2/\langle \beta \rangle^2\) with \(\beta=S^{\prime}(E)\) and \(C=dE/dT\) heat capacity. However, \(q \ne 1\) leads to non-additivity of the Boltzmann–Gibbs entropy, \(S\). We demonstrate that a deformed entropy, \(K(S)\), can be constructed and used for demanding additivity, i.e., \(q_K=1\). This requirement leads to a second order differential equation for \(K(S)\). Finally, the generalized \(q\)-entropy formula, \(K(S)=\sum p_i K(-\ln p_i)\), contains the Tsallis, Rényi and Boltzmann–Gibbs–Shannon expressions as particular cases. For diverging variance, \(\Delta\beta^2\) we obtain a novel entropy formula.
Reliability-Based Structural Optimization of Wave Energy Converters
Authors: Ambühl Simon , Kramer Morten , Sørensen John
Published: December 2014

More and more wave energy converter (WEC) concepts are reaching prototypelevel. Once the prototype level is reached, the next step in order to further decrease thelevelized cost of energy (LCOE) is optimizing the overall system with a focus on structuraland maintenance (inspection) costs, as well as on the harvested power from the waves.The target of a fully-developed WEC technology is not maximizing its power output,but minimizing the resulting LCOE. This paper presents a methodology to optimize thestructural design of WECs based on a reliability-based optimization problem and the intentto maximize the investor’s benefits by maximizing the difference between income (e.g., fromselling electricity) and the expected expenses (e.g., structural building costs or failure costs).Furthermore, different development levels, like prototype or commercial devices, may havedifferent main objectives and will be located at different locations, as well as receive varioussubsidies. These points should be accounted for when performing structural optimizationsof WECs. An illustrative example on the gravity-based foundation of the Wavestar deviceis performed showing how structural design can be optimized taking target reliability levelsand different structural failure modes due to extreme loads into account.
Thermal Performance Evaluation of Two Thermal Energy Storage Tank Design Concepts for Use with a Solid Particle Receiver-Based Solar Power Tower
Authors: El-Leathy Abdelrahman , Jeter Sheldon , Al-Ansary Hany , Abdel-Khalik Said , Roop Jonathan , Golob Matthew , Danish Syed , Alrished Abdulaziz , Djajadiwinata Eldwin , Al-Suhaibani Zeyad
Published: December 2014

This paper presents the results of an extensive study of two thermal energy storage (TES) systems. The goal of the research is to make solar energy cost-competitive with other forms of electricity. A small-scale TES system was first built. The inner to outer layers were made of firebrick (FB), autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) and reinforced concrete brick (CB). The experiments were conducted at temperatures of up to 1000 °C for sustained periods of time. AAC was found to be prone to cracking at temperatures exceeding 900 °C; as a result, AAC was eliminated from the second TES system. The second, larger-scale TES system was subsequently built of multiple layers of readily available materials, namely, insulating firebrick (IFB), perlite concrete (PC), expansion joint (EJ), and CB. All of the surfaces were instrumented with thermocouples to estimate the heat loss from the system. The temperature was maintained at approximately 800 °C to approximate steady state conditions closely. The steady state heat loss was determined to be approximately 4.4% for a day. The results indicate that high-temperature TES systems can be constructed of readily available materials while meeting the heat loss requirements for a falling particle receiver system, thereby contributing to reducing the overall cost of concentrating solar power systems.
Historical Image Registration and Land-Use Land-Cover Change Analysis
Authors: Jao Fang-Ju , Chu Hone-Jay , Tseng Yi-Hsing
Published: December 2014

Historical aerial images are important to retain past ground surface information. The land-use land-cover change in the past can be identified using historical aerial images. Automatic historical image registration and stitching is essential because the historical image pose information was usually lost. In this study, the Scale Invariant Feature Transform (SIFT) algorithm was used for feature extraction. Subsequently, the present study used the automatic affine transformation algorithm for historical image registration, based on SIFT features and control points. This study automatically determined image affine parameters and simultaneously transformed from an image coordinate system to a ground coordinate system. After historical aerial image registration, the land-use land-cover change was analyzed between two different years (1947 and 1975) at the Tseng Wen River estuary. Results show that sandbars and water zones were transformed into a large number of fish ponds between 1947 and 1975.
A Stand-Class Growth and Yield Model for Mexico’s Northern Temperate, Mixed and Multiaged Forests
Authors: Návar José
Published: December 2014

The aim of this research was to develop a stand-class growth and yield model based on the diameter growth dynamics of Pinus spp. and Quercus spp. of Mexico’s mixed temperate forests. Using a total of 2663 temporary, circular-sampling plots of 1000 m2 each, nine Weibull distribution techniques of parameter estimation were fitted to the diameter structures of pines and oaks. Statistical equations using stand attributes and the first three moments of the diameter distribution predicted and recovered the Weibull parameters. Using nearly 1200 and 100 harvested trees for pines and oaks, respectively, I developed the total height versus diameter at breast height relationship by fitting three non-linear functions. The Newnham model predicted stem taper and numerical integration was done to estimate merchantable timber volume for all trees in the stand for each diameter class. The independence of the diameter structures of pines and oaks was tested by regressing the Weibull parameters and projecting diameter structures. The model predicts diameter distributions transition from exponential (J inverse), logarithmic to well-balanced distributions with increasing mean stand diameter at breast height. Pine diameter distributions transition faster and the model predicts independent growth rates between pines and oaks. The stand-class growth and yield model must be completed with the diameter-age relationship for oaks in order to carry a full optimization procedure to find stand density and genera composition to maximize forest growth.
Creating Locally-Resolved Mobile-Source Emissions Inputs for Air Quality Modeling in Support of an Exposure Study in Detroit, Michigan, USA
Authors: Snyder Michelle , Arunachalam Saravanan , Isakov Vlad , Talgo Kevin , Naess Brian , Valencia Alejandro , Omary Mohammad , Davis Neil , Cook Rich , Hanna Adel
Published: December 2014

This work describes a methodology for modeling the impact of traffic-generated air pollutants in an urban area. This methodology presented here utilizes road network geometry, traffic volume, temporal allocation factors, fleet mixes, and emission factors to provide critical modeling inputs. These inputs, assembled from a variety of sources, are combined with meteorological inputs to generate link-based emissions for use in dispersion modeling to estimate pollutant concentration levels due to traffic. A case study implementing this methodology for a large health study is presented, including a sensitivity analysis of the modeling results reinforcing the importance of model inputs and identify those having greater relative impact, such as fleet mix. In addition, an example use of local measurements of fleet activity to supplement model inputs is described, and its impacts to the model outputs are discussed. We conclude that with detailed model inputs supported by local traffic measurements and meteorology, it is possible to capture the spatial and temporal patterns needed to accurately estimate exposure from traffic-related pollutants.
KCNK10, a Tandem Pore Domain Potassium Channel, Is a Regulator of Mitotic Clonal Expansion during the Early Stage of Adipocyte Differentiation
Authors: Nishizuka Makoto , Hayashi Takahiro , Asano Mami , Osada Shigehiro , Imagawa Masayoshi
Published: December 2014

KCNK10, a member of tandem pore domain potassium channel family, gives rise to leak K+ currents. It plays important roles in stabilizing the negative resting membrane potential and in counterbalancing depolarization. We previously demonstrated that kcnk10 expression is quickly elevated during the early stage of adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 cells and that reduction of kcnk10 expression inhibits adipocyte differentiation. However, the molecular mechanism of KCNK10 in adipocyte differentiation remains unclear. Here we revealed that kcnk10 is induced by 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, a cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase inhibitor and a potent inducer of adipogenesis, during the early stage of adipocyte differentiation. We also demonstrated that KCNK10 functions as a positive regulator of mitotic clonal expansion (MCE), a necessary process for terminal differentiation. The reduction of kcnk10 expression repressed the expression levels of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β (C/EBPβ) and C/EBPδ as well as the phosphorylation level of Akt during the early phase of adipogenesis. In addition, knockdown of kcnk10 expression suppressed insulin-induced Akt phosphorylation. These results indicate that KCNK10 contributes to the regulation of MCE through the control of C/EBPβ and C/EBPδ expression and insulin signaling.
Lipoprotein Lipase, Tissue Expression and Effects on Genes Related to Fatty Acid Synthesis in Goat Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Zhao Wang-Sheng , Hu Shi-Liang , Yu Kang , Wang Hui , Wang Wei , Loor Juan , Luo Jun
Published: December 2014

Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) serves as a central factor in hydrolysis of triacylglycerol and uptake of free fatty acids from the plasma. However, there are limited data concerning the action of LPL on the regulation of milk fat synthesis in goat mammary gland. In this investigation, we describe the cloning and sequencing of the LPL gene from Xinong Saanen dairy goat mammary gland, along with a study of its phylogenetic relationships. Sequence analysis showed that goat LPL shares similarities with other species including sheep, bovine, human and mouse. LPL mRNA expression in various tissues determined by RT-qPCR revealed the highest expression in white adipose tissue, with lower expression in heart, lung, spleen, rumen, small intestine, mammary gland, and kidney. Expression was almost undetectable in liver and muscle. The expression profiles of LPL gene in mammary gland at early, peak, mid, late lactation, and the dry period were also measured. Compared with the dry period, LPL mRNA expression was markedly greater at early lactation. However, compared with early lactation, the expression was lower at peak lactation and mid lactation. Despite those differences, LPL mRNA expression was still greater at peak, mid, and late lactation compared with the dry period. Using goat mammary epithelial cells (GMEC), the in vitro knockdown of LPL via shRNA or with Orlistat resulted in a similar degree of down-regulation of LPL (respectively). Furthermore, knockdown of LPL was associated with reduced mRNA expression of SREBF1, FASN, LIPE and PPARG but greater expression of FFAR3. There was no effect on ACACA expression. Orlistat decreased expression of LIPE, FASN, ACACA, and PPARG, and increased FFAR3 and SREBF1 expression. The pattern of LPL expression was similar to the changes in milk fat percentage in lactating goats. Taken together, results suggest that LPL may play a crucial role in fatty acid synthesis.
Enhanced in Vivo Delivery of 5-Fluorouracil by Ethosomal Gels in Rabbit Ear Hypertrophic Scar Model
Authors: Wo Yan , Zhang Zheng , Zhang Yixin , Zhang Zhen , Wang Kan , Mao Xiaohui , Su Weijie , Li Ke , Cui Daxiang , Chen Jun
Published: December 2014

Applying Ethosomal Gels (EGs) in transdermal drug delivery systems has evoked considerable interest because of their good water-solubility and biocompatibility. However, there has not been an explicit description of applying EGs as a vehicle for hypertrophic scars treatment. Here, a novel transdermal EGs loaded with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU EGs) was successfully prepared and characterized. The stability assay in vitro revealed that 5-FU EGs stored for a period of 30 days at 4 ± 1 °C had a better size stability than that at 25 ± 1 °C. Furthermore, using confocal laser scanning microscopy, EGs labeled with Rhodamine 6 G penetrated into the deep dermis of the hypertrophic scar within 24 h in the rabbit ear hypertrophic model suggested that the EGs were an optional delivery carrier through scar tissues. In addition, the value of the Scar Elevation Index (SEI) of 5-FU EGs group in the rabbit ear scar model was lower than that of 5-FU Phosphate Buffered Saline gel and Control groups. To conclude, these results suggest that EGs delivery system loaded 5-fluorouracil is a perfect candidate drug for hypertrophic scars therapy in future.
Ionic Liquids 2014 and Selected Papers from ILMAT 2013: Highlighting the Ever-Growing Potential of Ionic Liquids
Authors: Vioux André , Taubert Andreas
Published: December 2014

Ionic Liquids (ILs) are arguably among the most intensely researched areas in today’s natural sciences, especially the chemistry, physics, and materials sciences fields. The high promise of ILs for essentially all fields of science, engineering, and technology has also led to a sprouting of national and international meetings focusing on ILs and their use and application. Probably, the largest IL meeting is the Conference on Ionic Liquids (COIL) conference, now going into its 6th edition, to take place in Korea in 2015.[...]
Pheophytin a Inhibits Inflammation via Suppression of LPS-Induced Nitric Oxide Synthase-2, Prostaglandin E2, and Interleukin-1β of Macrophages
Authors: Lin Chun-Yu , Lee Chien-Hsing , Chang Yu-Wei , Wang Hui-Min , Chen Chung-Yi , Chen Yen-Hsu
Published: December 2014

Inflammation is a serious health issue worldwide that induces many diseases such as sepsis. There has been a vast search for potentially effective drugs to decrease mortality from sepsis. Pheophytin a is a chlorophyll-related compound derived from green tea. We found that pre-treatment with pheophytin a suppressed lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and interleukin-1β in RAW 264.7 macrophages. NO synthase-2 (NOS2) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression levels were repressed by pre-treatment with pheophytin a at both the transcriptional and translational levels. Pheophytin a inhibited NOS2 promoter activity, but not its mRNA stability, through extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2). This suppression was reversed by ERK1/2 inhibitor (U0126). Pheophytin a reduced signal transducers and activators of transcription 1 (STAT-1) activation, without an obvious influence on activator protein-1 (AP-1) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB). These results suggest that pheophytin a functions by down-regulating the transcriptional levels of inflammatory mediators and blocking the ERK and STAT-1 pathways.
Biomarkers of Treatment Toxicity in Combined-Modality Cancer Therapies with Radiation and Systemic Drugs: Study Design, Multiplex Methods, Molecular Networks
Authors: Ree Anne , Meltzer Sebastian , Flatmark Kjersti , Dueland Svein , Kalanxhi Erta
Published: December 2014

Organ toxicity in cancer therapy is likely caused by an underlying disposition for given pathophysiological mechanisms in the individual patient. Mechanistic data on treatment toxicity at the patient level are scarce; hence, probabilistic and translational linkages among different layers of data information, all the way from cellular targets of the therapeutic exposure to tissues and ultimately the patient’s organ systems, are required. Throughout all of these layers, untoward treatment effects may be viewed as perturbations that propagate within a hierarchically structured network from one functional level to the next, at each level causing disturbances that reach a critical threshold, which ultimately are manifested as clinical adverse reactions. Advances in bioinformatics permit compilation of information across the various levels of data organization, presumably enabling integrated systems biology-based prediction of treatment safety. In view of the complexity of biological responses to cancer therapy, this communication reports on a “top-down” strategy, starting with the systematic assessment of adverse effects within a defined therapeutic context and proceeding to transcriptomic and proteomic analysis of relevant patient tissue samples and computational exploration of the resulting data, with the ultimate aim of utilizing information from functional connectivity networks in evaluation of patient safety in multimodal cancer therapy.
Untrimmed Low-Power Thermal Sensor for SoC in 22 nm Digital Fabrication Technology
Authors: Eitan Ro'ee , Cohen Ariel
Published: December 2014

Thermal sensors (TS) are essential for achieving optimized performance and reliability in the era of nanoscale microprocessor and system on chip (SoC). Compiling with the low-power and small die area of the mobile computing, the presented TS supports a wide range of sampling frequencies with an optimized power envelope. The TS supports up to 45 K samples/s, low average power consumption, as low as 20 μW, and small core Si area of 0.013 mm2. Advanced circuit techniques are used in order to overcome process variability, ensuring inaccuracy lower than ±2 °C without any calibration. All this makes the presented thermal sensor a cost-effective, low-power solution for 22 nm nanoscale digital process technology.
The Solidification Behavior of AA2618 Aluminum Alloy and the Influence of Cooling Rate
Authors: Liu Yulin , Liu Ming , Luo Lei , Wang Jijie , Liu Chunzhong
Published: December 2014

In AA2618 aluminum alloy, the iron- and nickel-rich intermetallics formed during solidification are of great effect on the mechanical properties of the alloy at both room temperature and elevated temperatures. However, the solidification behavior of the alloy and the formation mechanism of the intermetallics during solidification of the alloy are not clear. This research fills the gap and contributes to understanding the intermetallic of the alloy. The results showed that cooling rate was of great influence on the formation of the intermetallics. Under the condition of slow cooling, the as-cast microstructures of the alloy were complex with many coarse eutectic compounds including Al9FeNi, Al7(CuNi)5, Si, Al2Cu and Al2CuMg. The phase Al9FeNi was the dominant intermetallic compound, which precipitated at the earlier stage of the solidification by eutectic reaction L → α-Al + Al9FeNi. Increasing the cooling rate would suppress the formation of the coarse eutectic intermetallics. Under the condition of near-rapid cooling, the as-cast microstructures of the alloy consisted of metastable intermetallics Al9FeNi and Al2Cu; the equilibrium eutectic compounds were suppressed. This research concluded that intermetallics could be refined to a great extent by near-rapid cooling.
Effects of Intercritical Annealing Temperature on Mechanical Properties of Fe-7.9Mn-0.14Si-0.05Al-0.07C Steel
Authors: Zhao Xianming , Shen Yongfeng , Qiu Lina , Liu Yandong , Sun Xin , Zuo Liang
Published: December 2014

A medium Mn steel has been designed to achieve an excellent combination of strength and ductility based on the TRIP (Transformation Induced Plasticity) concept for automotive applications. Following six passes of hot rolling at 850 °C, the Fe-7.9Mn-0.14Si-0.05Al-0.07C (wt.%) steel was warm-rolled at 630 °C for seven passes and subsequently air cooled to room temperature. The sample was subsequently intercritically annealed at various temperatures for 30 min to promote the reverse transformation of martensite into austenite. The obtained results show that the highest volume fraction of austenite is 39% for the sample annealed at 600 °C. This specimen exhibits a yield stress of 910 MPa and a high ultimate tensile stress of 1600 MPa, with an elongation-to-failure of 0.29 at a strain rate of 1 × 10−3/s. The enhanced work-hardening ability of the investigated steel is closely related to martensitic transformation and the interaction of dislocations. Especially, the alternate arrangement of acicular ferrite (soft phase) and ultrafine austenite lamellae (50–200 nm, strong and ductile phase) is the key factor contributing to the excellent combination of strength and ductility. On the other hand, the as-warm-rolled sample also exhibits the excellent combination of strength and ductility, with elongation-to-failure much higher than those annealed at temperatures above 630 °C.
Phosphated Cellulose as an Efficient Biomaterial for Aqueous Drug Ranitidine Removal
Authors: Bezerra Roosevelt , Silva Márcia , Morais Alan , Osajima Josy , Santos Maria , Airoldi Claudio , Filho Edson
Published: December 2014

Crystalline cellulose chemically modified through a reaction with sodium trimetaphosphate (STMP) in an acidic or basic condition yielded Cel-P4 and Cel-P10. These phosphated solids were characterized by elemental analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared (IR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) at the solid state for phosphorus nucleus and dispersive X-ray energy. The elemental results demonstrated that the phosphorylation reaction was more efficient in the basic medium, as supported by the amount of phosphorous content. The synthesized biomaterials decreased in crystallinity in comparison to the precursor cellulose, with an increase in roughness and present two distinct phosphorus environments in the formed structure. The phosphated cellulose in an alkaline condition was applied to sorb the drug ranitidine. This process was applied in varying pH, time, temperature and concentration. The best sorption kinetic model to fit the experimental data was the pseudo-second-order with a coefficient correlation of 0.8976, and the Langmuir isotherm model was the most adjusted to the variation in concentration. The efficient drug sorption has a low dependence on temperature, with maximum values of 85.0, 82.0 mg and 85.7 mg·g−1 for Cel-P10 at 298, 308 and 318 K, respectively. The best sorption occurred at pH = 6 with a saturation time of 210 min.
Cytotoxic Polyketides from the Deep-Sea-Derived Fungus Engyodontium album DFFSCS021
Authors: Yao Qifeng , Wang Jie , Zhang Xiaoyong , Nong Xuhua , Xu Xinya , Qi Shuhua
Published: December 2014

Eight new chromones, engyodontiumones A–H (1–8), and three new phenol derivatives (9–11) together with eight known polyketides (12–19) were isolated from the deep-sea-derived fungus Engyodontium album DFFSCS021. Their structures were identified by extensive spectroscopic analysis. Compounds 8 and 16 showed significant selective cytotoxicity against human histiocytic lymphoma U937 cell line with IC50 values of 4.9 and 8.8 μM, respectively. In addition, this is the first time to report that 8, 15 and 16 had mild antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis, and 15 showed potent antilarval activity against barnacle Balanus amphitrite larval settlement.
Marine Pseudovibrio sp. as a Novel Source of Antimicrobials
Authors: Crowley Susan , O'Gara Fergal , O'Sullivan Orla , Cotter Paul , Dobson Alan
Published: December 2014

Antibiotic resistance among pathogenic microorganisms is becoming ever more common. Unfortunately, the development of new antibiotics which may combat resistance has decreased. Recently, however the oceans and the marine animals that reside there have received increased attention as a potential source for natural product discovery. Many marine eukaryotes interact and form close associations with microorganisms that inhabit their surfaces, many of which can inhibit the attachment, growth or survival of competitor species. It is the bioactive compounds responsible for the inhibition that is of interest to researchers on the hunt for novel bioactives. The genus Pseudovibrio has been repeatedly identified from the bacterial communities isolated from marine surfaces. In addition, antimicrobial activity assays have demonstrated significant antimicrobial producing capabilities throughout the genus. This review will describe the potency, spectrum and possible novelty of the compounds produced by these bacteria, while highlighting the capacity for this genus to produce natural antimicrobial compounds which could be employed to control undesirable bacteria in the healthcare and food production sectors.
Sargassopenillines A–G, 6,6-Spiroketals from the Alga-Derived Fungi Penicillium thomii and Penicillium lividum
Authors: Zhuravleva Olesya , Sobolevskaya Maria , Afiyatullov Shamil , Kirichuk Natalya , Denisenko Vladimir , Dmitrenok Pavel , Yurchenko Ekaterina , Dyshlovoy Sergey
Published: December 2014

Seven new 6,6-spiroketals, sargassopenillines A–G (1–7) were isolated from the alga-derived fungi Penicillium thomii KMM 4645 and Penicillium lividum KMM 4663. The structures of these metabolites were determined by HR-MS and 1D and 2D NMR. The absolute configurations of compounds 1, 5 and 6 were assigned by the modified Mosher’s method and by CD data. Sargassopenilline C (3) inhibited the transcriptional activity of the oncogenic nuclear factor AP-1 with an IC50 value of 15 µM.
Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar L.) as a Marine Functional Source of Gamma-Tocopherol
Authors: Menoyo David , Sanz-Bayón Carmen , Nessa Anna , Esatbeyoglu Tuba , Faizan Mohammad , Pallauf Kathrin , De Diego Nuria , Wagner Anika , Ipharraguerre Ignacio , Stubhaug Ingunn , Rimbach Gerald
Published: December 2014

Gamma tocopherol (gT) exhibits beneficial cardiovascular effects partly due to its anti-inflammatory activity. Important sources of gT are vegetable oils. However, little is known to what extent gT can be transferred into marine animal species such as Atlantic salmon by feeding. Therefore, in this study we have investigated the transfer of dietary gT into salmon. To this end, fish were fed a diet supplemented with 170 ppm gT for 16 weeks whereby alpha tocopherol levels were adjusted to 190 ppm in this and the control diet. Feeding gT-rich diets resulted in a three-fold increase in gT concentrations in the liver and fillet compared to non-gT-supplemented controls. Tissue alpha tocopherol levels were not decreased indicating no antagonistic interaction between gamma- and alpha tocopherol in salmon. The concentration of total omega 3 fatty acids slightly increased in response to dietary gT. Furthermore, dietary gT significantly decreased malondialdehyde in the fillet, determined as a biomarker of lipid peroxidation. In the liver of gT fed salmon we observed an overall down-regulation of genes involved in lipid homeostasis. Additionally, gT improved the antioxidant capacity by up-regulating Gpx4a gene expression in the pyloric caeca. We suggest that Atlantic salmon may provide a marine functional source capable of enriching gT for human consumption.