bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Implementation of Earth Jurisprudence through Substantive Constitutional Rights of Nature
Authors: Rühs Nathalie , Jones Aled
Published: February 2016

To date, international processes associated with sustainable development have not led to an internationally legally binding framework that adequately addresses the challenges we face. Human influence on the planet has led to the adoption, although not universally accepted, of the term Anthropocene to define our new relationship with nature. This paper aims to look at the role and rule of law in the making of society and, more importantly, the arguments for a shift in the paradigm from an Anthropocentric ontology to a more Earth-centered one. We critique the current approach to sustainable development and environmental protection, review arguments on the Rights of Nature and explore the potential for the concept of Earth Jurisprudence building on current literature. In particular, the paper outlines that a constitutional right of nature is needed to address the challenges that we now face globally. To this end, we also examine in detail the case study of the constitution of Ecuador where the rights of nature have been codified. We outline some of the key issues involved in this proposed approach to new legal frameworks and make recommendations for future research.
Terahertz and Cultural Heritage Science: Examination of Art and Archaeology
Authors: Cosentino Antonino
Published: February 2016

Cultural Heritage scientists need methodologies to examine Art and Archaeology in order to understand artistic materials and techniques and devise better conservation procedures. This review discusses the most successful and promising applications of Terahertz (THz) technology in Cultural Heritage Science. THz is used in homeland security and for plenty of other industrial sectors and it presents a number of valuable features specifically for the investigation of Art and Archaeology: No radiation risk, low power, non-contact and reflection mode. Recent technical advancements are also making its application fast, mobile and relatively affordable creating a potential for its diffused implementation in museums. While THz is most promising for the investigation of multilayered art, such as paintings, it has been tested on a very large range of artifacts, from manuscripts to mummies and lacquered historical furniture.
Transcriptional Suppression of Renal Antioxidant Enzyme Systems in Guinea Pigs Exposed to Polymerized Cell-Free Hemoglobin
Authors: Rentsendorj Otgonchimeg , Zhang Xiaoyuan , Williams Matthew , Buehler Paul , D’Agnillo Felice
Published: February 2016

Hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs) are being developed as oxygen and plasma volume-expanding therapeutics though their potential to promote oxidative tissue injury has raised safety concerns. Using a guinea pig exchange transfusion model, we examined the effects of polymerized bovine hemoglobin (HbG) on the transcriptional regulation, activity, and expression of the renal antioxidant enzymes; superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). HbG infusion downregulated the mRNA levels for genes encoding SOD isoforms 1-3, GPx1, GPx3, GPx4, and CAT. This transcriptional suppression correlated with decreased enzymatic activities for SOD, CAT, and GPx. Immunostaining revealed decreased protein expression of SOD1, CAT, and GPx1 primarily in renal cortical tubules. DNA methylation analyses identified CpG hypermethylation in the gene promoters for SOD1-3, GPx1, GPx3, and GPx4, suggesting an epigenetic-based mechanism underlying the observed gene repression. HbG also induced oxidative stress as evidenced by increased renal lipid peroxidation end-products and 4-HNE immunostaining, which could be the result of the depleted antioxidant defenses and/or serve as a trigger for increased DNA methylation. Together, these findings provide evidence that the renal exposure to HbG suppresses the function of major antioxidant defense systems which may have relevant implications for understanding the safety of hemoglobin-based products.
The Pathogenesis of Saffold Virus in AG129 Mice and the Effects of Its Truncated L Protein in the Central Nervous System
Authors: Tan Shawn , Chua Kaw , Xu Yishi , Prabakaran Mookkan
Published: February 2016

Saffold Virus (SAFV) is a human cardiovirus that has been suggested to cause severe infection of the central nervous system (CNS). Compared to a similar virus, Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV), SAFV has a truncated Leader (L) protein, a protein essential in the establishment of persistent CNS infections. In this study, we generated a chimeric SAFV by replacing the L protein of SAFV with that of TMEV. We then compared the replication in cell cultures and pathogenesis in a mouse model. We showed that both SAFV and chimeric SAFV are able to infect Vero and Neuro2a cells well, but only chimeric SAFV was able to infect RAW264.7. We then showed that mice lacking IFN-α/β and IFN-γ receptors provide a good animal model for SAFV infection, and further identified the locality of the infection to the ventral horn of the spine and several locations in the brain. Lastly, we showed that neither SAFV nor chimeric SAFV causes persistence in this model. Overall, our results provide a strong basis on which the mechanisms underlying Saffold virus induced neuropathogenesis can be further studied and, hence, facilitating new information about its pathogenesis.
A Toolbox for Herpesvirus miRNA Research: Construction of a Complete Set of KSHV miRNA Deletion Mutants
Authors: Jain Vaibhav , Plaisance-Bonstaff Karlie , Sangani Rajnikumar , Lanier Curtis , Dolce Alexander , Hu Jianhong , Brulois Kevin , Haecker Irina , Turner Peter , Renne Rolf , Krueger Brian
Published: February 2016

Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) encodes 12 viral microRNAs (miRNAs) that are expressed during latency. Research into KSHV miRNA function has suffered from a lack of genetic systems to study viral miRNA mutations in the context of the viral genome. We used the Escherichia coli Red recombination system together with a new bacmid background, BAC16, to create mutants for all known KSHV miRNAs. The specific miRNA deletions or mutations and the integrity of the bacmids have been strictly quality controlled using PCR, restriction digestion, and sequencing. In addition, stable viral producer cell lines based on iSLK cells have been created for wildtype KSHV, for 12 individual miRNA knock-out mutants (ΔmiR-K12-1 through -12), and for mutants deleted for 10 of 12 (ΔmiR-cluster) or all 12 miRNAs (ΔmiR-all). NGS, in combination with SureSelect technology, was employed to sequence the entire latent genome within all producer cell lines. qPCR assays were used to verify the expression of the remaining viral miRNAs in a subset of mutants. Induction of the lytic cycle leads to efficient production of progeny viruses that have been used to infect endothelial cells. Wt BAC16 and miR mutant iSLK producer cell lines are now available to the research community.
Sinuosity-Driven Water Pressure Distribution on Slope of Slightly-Curved Riparian Zone: Analytical Solution Based on Small-disturbance Theory and Comparison to Experiments
Authors: Xia Jihong , Yu Genting , Lin Junqiang , Cao Weijie , Yi Zihan , Lin Lihuai , Nehal Laounia
Published: February 2016

A curved riparian zone can create highly complex flow patterns that have a great effect on erosion, pollutant transport, surface water-groundwater exchange and habitat qualities. The small-disturbance theory has been applied to derive the analytical solutions of pressure distributions along a sinusoidal riverbank. Experiments have also been performed to test the hydrodynamic and geomorphic effects on pressure distribution and to verify the applicability of the derived expressions. The derived expressions were simple, accurate and agreed remarkably well with experimental results for the riparian banks with a low degree of curvature. On the contrary, when a riparian bank had a high degree of curvature, these expressions applying the approach of small-disturbance, could not effectively estimate the pressure distributions for a complex bank boundary or complex flow conditions. Moreover, sensitive analysis has indicated that the disturbed pressures along the riparian banks increased with increasing Froude number Fr, as well as the ratio of bank amplitude to wavelength a/λ. However, a/λ has been found to have more significant influence on pressure variation in subcritical flow.
MyoD Overexpressed Equine Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Enhanced Myogenic Differentiation Potential
Authors: Sung Soo-Eun , Hwang Meeyul , Kim Ah-Young , Lee Eun-Mi , Lee Eun-Joo , Hwang Su-Kyeong , Kim Shin-Yoon , Kim Hong-Kyun , Jeong Kyu-Shik
Published: February 2016

Mesenchymal stem cells could potentially be used in the clinical treatment of muscle disorders and muscle regeneration. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) can be easily isolated from adipose tissue, as opposed to stem cells of other tissues. We believe that cell therapy using ADSCs could be applied to muscle disorders in horses and other species. We sought to improve the myogenic differentiation potential of equine ADSCs (eqADSCs) using a MyoD lentiviral vector. MyoD lentiviruses were transduced into eqADSCs and selected using puromycin. Cells were cultured in differentiation media containing 5% horse serum, and after 5 days the MyoD-transduced cells differentiated into myogenic cells (MyoD-eqADSCs). Using green fluorescent protein (GFP), MyoD-eqADSCs were purified and transplanted into the tibialis anterior muscles of mice after they were injured with the myotoxin notexin. The mice were sacrificed to examine any regeneration in the tibialis anterior muscle 4 weeks after the MyoD-eqADSCs were injected. The MyoD-eqADSCs cultured in growth media expressed murine and equine MyoD; however, they did not express late differentiation markers such as myogenin (MYOG). When cells were grown in differentiation media, the expression of MYOG was clearly observed. According to our reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry results, MyoD-eqADSCs expressed terminal myogenic phase genes, such as those encoding dystrophin, myosin heavy chain, and troponin I. The MyoD-eqADSCs fused to each other, and the formation of myotube-like cells from myoblasts in differentiation media occurred between days 5 and 14 postplating. In mice, we observed GFP-positive myofibers, which had differentiated from the injected MyoD-eqADSCs. Our approaches improved the myogenic differentiation of eqADSCs through the forced expression of murine MyoD. Our findings suggest that limitations in the treatment of equine muscle disorders could be overcome using ADSCs.
Expression and Clinical Significance of Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 in Lung Cancer Tissues and Perioperative Circulation from Patients with Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Fu S. , Tang H. , Liao Y. , Xu Q. , Liu C. , Deng Y. , Wang J. , Wang J. , Fu X.
Published: February 2016

Objective: We explored the role of insulin-like growth factor 1 (igf-1) in the development of lung cancer. We used immunohistochemistry to measure the expression of igf-1 and igf-1 receptor (igf-1r) in specimens of tissue and perioperative circulation from 80 patients with primary non-small-cell lung cancer (nsclc) and from 45 patients with benign pulmonary lesions (bpls). Correlations of those measurements with clinicopathologic characteristics and clinical follow-up were analyzed. Circulating igf-1 was measured before and after surgery in all patients. Results: Compared with bpl specimens, nsclc specimens showed overexpression of igf-1 and igf-1r (p < 0.001). The expression levels of igf-1 and igf-1r were significantly associated with advanced-stage disease (p = 0.034 and 0.029 respectively) and lymph node metastasis (p = 0.012 and 0.017 respectively), and expression of igf-1 correlated with tumour differentiation and tumour diameter (p = 0.011 and 0.021 respectively). Specimens positive for igf-1 or igf-1r were significantly correlated with shorter patient survival (p = 0.0012 and 0.0016 respectively). After surgery, circulating igf-1 was significantly elevated in patients with bpl (p = 0.0346) and significantly lower in patients with nsclc (p = 0.0030), especially in those with advanced-stage disease, a larger tumour size, regional lymphoid node metastasis, or lesser differentiation (p = 0.0092, 0.0051, 0.0131, and p < 0.001 respectively). Conclusions: In nsclc, igf-1 and igf-1r are upregulated, and expression of those factors is correlated with tumour progression and prognosis in nsclc patients. Radical resection of nsclc can directly influence the serum concentration of igf-1. Autocrine/paracrine igf-1 might be playing an important role in the development of lung cancer.
Dosimetric and Clinical Toxicity Comparison of Critical Organ Preservation with Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy, and RapidArc for the Treatment of Locally Advanced Cancer of the Pancreatic Head
Authors: Jin L. , Wang R. , Jiang S. , Yue J. , Liu T. , Dou X. , Zhu K. , Feng R. , Xu X. , Chen D. , Yin Y.
Published: February 2016

Purpose: We compared dosimetry and clinical toxicity for 3-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT), intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), and RapidArc (Varian Medical Systems, Palo Alto, CA, U.S.A.) in locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPCC). We hypothesized that the technique with better sparing of organs at risk (OARs) and better target dose distributions could lead to decreased clinical toxicity. Methods: The study analyzed 280 patients with LAPCC who had undergone radiotherapy. The dosimetry comparison was performed using 20 of those patients. Dose–volume histograms for the target volume and the OARs were compared. The clinical toxicity comparison used the 280 patients who received radiation with 3D-CRT, IMRT, or RapidArc. Compared with 3D-CRT, RapidArc and IMRT both achieved a better conformal index, homogeneity index, V95%, and V110%. Results: Compared with 3D-CRT or IMRT, RapidArc reduced the V10, V20, and mean dose to duodenum, the V20 of the right kidney, and the liver mean dose. Compared with 3D-CRT, RapidArc reduced the V35, and V45 of duodenum, the mean dose to small bowel, and the V15 of right kidney. The incidences of grades 3 and 4 diarrhea (p = 0.037) and anorexia (p = 0.042) were lower with RapidArc than with 3D-CRT, and the incidences of grades 3 and 4 diarrhea (p = 0.027) were lower with RapidArc than with IMRT. Conclusions: Compared with 3D-CRT or IMRT, RapidArc showed better sparing of OARs, especially duodenum, small bowel, and right kidney. Also, fewer acute grades 3 and 4 gastrointestinal toxicities were seen with RapidArc than with 3D-CRT or IMRT. A technique with better sparing of OARs and better target dose distributions could result in decreased clinical toxicities during radiation treatment for LAPCC.
Effects of Warm Acupuncture on Breast Cancer–Related Chronic Lymphedema: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yao C. , Xu Y. , Chen L. , Jiang H. , Ki C.S. , Byun J.S. , Bian W.
Published: February 2016

Background: Effective treatment for breast cancer–related chronic lymphedema (BCRL) remains a clinical challenge. Acupuncture and moxibustion treatments have been shown to be beneficial and safe for treating BCRL. In the present randomized controlled trial, we compared the effectiveness of combined acupuncture and moxibustion (“warm acupuncture”) with that of diosmin in BCRL. Methods: Breast cancer patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria (n = 30) were randomized to experimental and control groups (15 per group). On alternate days, patients in the experimental group received 30 minutes of acupuncture at 6 acupoints, with 3 of the needles each being topped by a 3-cm moxa stick. The control treatment was diosmin 900 mg 3 times daily. The control and experimental treatments were administered for 30 days. Outcome measures included arm circumferences (index of effectiveness), range of motion [ROM (shoulder joint function)], quality of life, clinical safety, and adverse events. Results: Measured by the index of effectiveness, BCRL improved by 51.46% in the experimental group and by 26.27% in the control group (p < 0.00001). Effects were greatest at 10 cm above the elbow and at the wrist, where the warm needling was provided. Impairments in shoulder joint ROM were minimal at baseline in both treatment groups. However, the ROMs of rear protraction, abduction, intorsion, and extorsion in the experimental group improved significantly; they did not change in the control group. Self-reported quality of life was significantly better with warm acupuncture than with diosmin. No adverse effects were reported during the treatment period, and laboratory examinations for clinical safety fell within the normal ranges. Conclusions: Compared with diosmin, warm acupuncture treatment can effectively reduce the degree of BCRL at the specific acupoints treated and can promote quality of life. Warm acupuncture showed good clinical safety, without any adverse effects on blood or the cardiovascular system.
Quebec Public Funding Facilitates Fertility Preservation for Male Cancer Patients
Authors: Herrero M.B. , García A. , Buckett W. , Tulandi T. , Chan P.
Published: February 2016

Background: Sperm cryopreservation remains the only clinically feasible option to preserve male fertility. The quality of counselling provided by the treating physicians and the cost of sperm cryopreservation can both influence a patient’s decision about whether to preserve sperm. On 5 August 2010, the Quebec government introduced provincial coverage of assisted reproductive technologies, with sperm cryopreservation included as a covered service. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether and how such a program affects the behaviour of cancer patients with respect to sperm cryopreservation. Methods: We analyzed the database derived from male patients undergoing sperm cryopreservation from August 2008 to August 2012 at our centre. The retrieved data included patient age, male infertility or oncologic diagnosis, sperm quality parameters, and details about the number of visits for sperm cryopreservation. Results: The number of cancer patients who cryopreserved sperm before and after the policy change did not differ significantly, but a marked increase in the number of non-cancer patients was observed. Further analysis revealed that, after implementation of the public funding program, the total number of sperm cryopreservation sessions per patient increased significantly in cancer patients but not in non-cancer patients. Conclusions: It appears that cancer patients who are willing to freeze sperm are keen to return for more sessions of sperm banking when no fees are associated with the service. Those findings suggest that cost reduction is an important factor for improving delivery of fertility preservation services to male cancer patients.
Book Review: Hypnotic Approaches in Cancer and Palliative Care
Authors: Giddings G.
Published: February 2016

The word “hypnosis” seems to carry somewhat different connotations today than in the past [...]
Eastern Canadian Colorectal Cancer Consensus Conference 2013: Emerging Therapies in the Treatment of Pancreatic, Rectal, and Colorectal Cancers
Authors: Di Valentin T. , Asmis T. , Asselah J. , Aubin F. , Aucoin N. , Berry S. , Biagi J. , Booth C.M. , Burkes R. , Coburn N. , Colwell B. , Cripps C. , Dawson L.A. , Dorreen M. , Frechette D. , Goel R. , Gray S. , Hammad N. , Jonker D. , Kavan P. , Maroun J. , Nanji S. , Roberge D. , Samson B. , Seal M. , Shabana W. , Simunovic M. , Snow S. , Tehfe M. , Thirlwell M. , Tsvetkova E. , Vickers M. , Vuong T. , Goodwin R.
Published: February 2016

The annual Eastern Canadian Colorectal Cancer Consensus Conference held in Montreal, Quebec, 17–19 October 2013, marked the 10-year anniversary of this meeting that is attended by leaders in medical, radiation, and surgical oncology. The goal of the attendees is to improve the care of patients affected by gastrointestinal malignancies. Topics discussed during the conference included pancreatic cancer, rectal cancer, and metastatic colorectal cancer.
De-Escalation of Bone-Targeted Agents for Metastatic Prostate Cancer
Authors: Hong Brian Younho , Ibrahim Mohammed F.K. , Fernandes Ricardo , Mazzarello Sasha , Hutton Brian , Shorr Risa , Clemons Mark
Published: February 2016

Despite advances in therapy, bone remains the most common site of prostate cancer recurrence [...]
DO THE LEGS OF MAGNETIC CLOUDS CONTAIN TWISTED FLUX-ROPE MAGNETIC FIELDS?
Authors: Owens M. J.
Published: February 2016

Magnetic clouds (MCs) are a subset of interplanetary coronal mass ejections (ICMEs) characterized primarily by a smooth rotation in the magnetic field direction indicative of the presence of a magnetic flux rope. Energetic particle signatures suggest MC flux ropes remain magnetically connected to the Sun at both ends, leading to widely used model of global MC structure as an extended flux rope, with a loop-like axis stretching out from the Sun into the heliosphere and back to the Sun. The time of flight of energetic particles, however, suggests shorter magnetic field line lengths than such a continuous twisted flux rope would produce. In this study, two simple models are compared with observed flux rope axis orientations of 196 MCs to show that the flux rope structure is confined to the MC leading edge. The MC “legs,” which magnetically connect the flux rope to the Sun, are not recognizable as MCs and thus are unlikely to contain twisted flux rope fields. Spacecraft encounters with these non-flux rope legs may provide an explanation for the frequent observation of non-MC ICMEs.
The importance of mountain geomorphosites for environmental education: examples from the Italian Dolomites and the Swiss Alps
Authors: Reynard Emmanuel , Coratza Paola
Published: February 2016

Because of their specific physical characteristics (altitude, slope, orientation, climate), mountain environments have an important natural diversity. In particular, their geodiversity is generally much larger than in the lowlands, and because mountain geosites are often very aesthetic, mountain areas present a great potential for geoheritage, geoconservation and geotourism studies. This paper reviews six reasons why this potential is high and concludes that mountain areas are particularly interesting to develop educational programs on three current environmental issues: climate change; natural hazards; and human impacts on particularly sensitive geomorphological environments. Then, the paper reviews the principal research in the field of geoheritage currently carried out on these three topics and presents two case studies in the Italian Dolomites and the Swiss Alps.
Bioinspired Nanoparticles for Efficient Drug Delivery System
Authors: Al-Najar Basma Taqi , Bououdina Mohamed
Published: February 2016

Bioinspired nanoparticles have been involved in biomedicine field such as biosensors and drug delivery due to their small size and interesting characteristics that made them highly biocompatible, less toxic and hence greater influence on the biological systems. An effective drug delivery system can be achieved when applying these bioinspired material and herein we present several research work that involved bioinspired nanotechnology in drug delivery for cancer, therapeutic genes, calcium apatite nanocomposites, protein drugs and others.
Introduction to Bio-Inspired Hydrogel and Their Application
Authors: Melnyczuk John M. , Palchoudhury Soubantika
Published: February 2016

This chapter discusses the synthesis, characterization, and application of covalently and physically cross-linked polymers for biomedical application. This class of molecule is called hydrogels and is defined by a covalently bonded polymer matrix that can hold at least two times its mass in solvent. Hydrogels are general classes of polymeric systems that have further subgroups: semi-interpenetrating networks (SIPN), interpenetrating networks (IPN), block co-polymers, and grafted. The different methods to synthesize these hydrogels are discussed. Specific characterization techniques to evaluate the properties and functionalities of the hydrogels are also described in the chapter. Next, the practical and industrial applications of the hydrogels are detailed. Throughout this chapter we will highlight the different synthesis methods, characterization techniques, and current uses of hydrogels. The chapter will be a particularly useful overview and introduction for graduate students and researchers aiming to work in the field of hydrogels.
Spatial and Temporal Patterns of Wetland Cover Changes in East Kolkata Wetlands, India from 1972 to 2011
Authors: Li Xia , Mitra Chandana , Marzen Luke , Yang Qichun
Published: February 2016

Land use and land cover change has a slow but prolonged impact on various aspects of environment on local, regional and global scales. In developing countries especially population pressure and food demand have compelled conversion of wetlands to built-up and agricultural lands. One such unique example is the East Kolkata Wetlands (EKWs) located on the eastern fringes of Kolkata City in India where such land cover change is very intense and rapid. In this study, wetland conversions in EKWs from 1972 to 2011 were analyzed with four Landsat images using the Geographic Object-Based Image Analysis (GeOBIA) and a post-classification comparison. Results suggested that wetland areas decreased by 17.9 percent during the study period. The western part of the wetlands saw the maximum conversion of wetlands to built-up areas with time, whereas the east and south experienced more of wetlands to agricultural and other land conversions
A Model of Leadership Behavior in Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games
Authors: Huang Li-Chun , Yu Chia-Ping
Published: February 2016

Based on self-monitoring theory, this study integrates the constructs of group climate, game design, leadership self-efficacy, and leadership experiences to investigate leadership behavior in MMORPGs. The authors adopted questionnaires (138 samples) as a means to observe leadership behaviors in MMORPGs. The research results show that group climate, game design and leadership self-efficacy have a positive influence on leadership. From a theoretical viewpoint, the authors' studies confirm that leaders adjust and control their behavior according to what kind of group climate they perceive, how confidently they act as leaders and what functions are provided by the online game system. A practical implication of this study is that MMORPGs provide an opportunity for players to effectively and quickly learn leadership skills. The authors suggest that leaders who are lacking in social skills initiate social interactions with others on MMORPGs; this can help them develop leadership self-efficacy or manage their team through effective game designs.
Sustainability Disclosure after a Crisis
Authors: Aureli Selena , Medei Renato , Supino Enrico , Travaglini Claudio
Published: February 2016

This research investigates what happens to sustainability disclosure in the light of an industrial disaster. Drawing from legitimacy theory, the disaster is treated as a moment of crisis, in which the relationship of trust between the company and its stakeholders suffers and has to be reconstructed to legitimise the company's operations once more. While past studies revealed an increase in corporate disclosure after a disaster, the authors' results highlight a different behaviour. The analysis focuses on six companies involved in industrial disasters with a global media coverage, before and after the event. The sample includes, among others, Tepco for the leakage of nuclear material from the Fukushima power plant and Carnival Cruise Corporation in relation to the sinking of the Costa Concordia. Findings obtained using text mining techniques suggest that there is a tendency to reduce the quantity of information provided in the year of the disaster, which represents a precise managerial strategy aiming to avoid further drops in corporate legitimacy.
Examining User Switch between Mobile Stores
Authors: Zhou Tao
Published: February 2016

Retaining users and curbing their switching behavior are critical issues for mobile stores. Drawing on the push-pull-mooring (PPM) model, this research identified the factors affecting user switches between mobile stores. The push factors include dissatisfaction with system quality, information quality and service quality. The pull factor is alternative attractiveness. The mooring factors include switching costs and social influence. The results indicated that user switches receive influences from all three kinds of factors. Hence mobile stores need to be concerned with the effects of push, pull and mooring factors in order to curb users' switching behavior.
Wang Tiling for Microstructure-Informed Enrichment Functions: A One-Dimensional Study
Authors: Doškář Martin , Novák Jan , Zeman Jan
Published: February 2016

With the current contribution we continue in our long-term ambition to develop an efficient numerical method that incorporates detailed knowledge of material microstructure into upper-scale response. In particular, we investigate potential of the Wang tiling concept to provide microstructure-informed enrichment functions for the eXtended/Generalized Finite Element Method. Preliminary results for a one-dimensional linear elasticity problem are presented, covering two modes of loading and their combination. The performance of the proposed methodology is quantified by means of $L^2$ and $H^1$ norms of errors for sequentially refined macro-scale discretization.
Mesoscale Modeling of Nonlinear Influence of Ambient Relative Humidity on Drying Shrinkage of Concrete
Authors: Havlásek Petr , Jirásek Milan
Published: February 2016

Creep and shrinkage are complicated time-dependent processes taking place in cementitious materials. In typical concretes, the most significant part of shrinkage is represented by drying shrinkage; it is caused by a decrease in relative humidity of pores which leads to an increase in capillary tension of pore water and in the solid surface tension at pore walls.Experimental data indicate that the ultimate value of drying shrinkage measured on concrete and mortar specimens is a nonlinear function of the ambient relative humidity. The nonlinear behavior is partially caused by microcracking, and partially by creep of the cement matrix. On the other hand, drying shrinkage of hardened cement paste, measured on very thin specimens at gradually decreasing relative humidity, is found to be a linear function of relative humidity.The aim of this paper is to assess the nature of the macroscopic shrinkage computed employing finite element simulations at the meso-scale level in which the drying cement paste is described by a viscoelastic model with tensile cracking and with a constant shrinkage coefficient.
Tuning of Shape Parameters for Radial Basis Functions in Nonlinear Meta-Modeling
Authors: Myšáková Eva , Lepš Matěj
Published: February 2016

Meta-modeling is a frequently used tool for analysis of systems' behavior. An original model of the system is often complex and its evaluation is expensive and time-consuming. Therefore it is desirable to execute the original model as few times as possible. A special case is when many evaluation of the model with different input parameters are necessary. Proposed solution is a use of the meta-model, in our case Radial Basis Function Network (RBFN) tool is presented. Here, the output of the meta-model is constructed as a linear combination of the radial basis functions. For good approximation a shape parameter of the radial basis functions has to be set properly. This paper describes a tuning of the shape parameters for several benchmark examples.
Carrying Capacity Testing of Membrane Connection
Authors: Huttner Miloš , Fajman Petr
Published: February 2016

This paper is focused on carrying capacity testing of five different types of membrane connections. Three reference samples for each type of connection were tested for tensile strength. Low measured peak force value and especially the way breakage outside of the join indicative of a wrong material, and not on the connection. The obtained values were compared with technical datasheet of the material manufacturer, which has been non-compliance. It confirms the assumption that the material was changed, which could harm to the user.
Analysis of Stability of Mode II Crack Growth
Authors: Sajdlová Tereza , Kabele Petr
Published: February 2016

As the previous part of authors ́ research deals with numerical modelling of functionally graded members in general, the following part is focused on analysis of the interface between individual layers. For correct description of interface behavior in numerical simulations, interface model parameters must be determined by appropriate physical tests. Testing methods for the tensile properties are known while the shear tests may face some difficulties. Shear test configurations for measuring interface behavior after the peak which is related to the stable crack growth along the interface are analyzed. The subject of presented paper is to evaluate tests in terms of stable mode II crack growth along the interface. Stable crack growth is assessed by stress intensity factor and finite element method.
Influence of the Bell-Jar Magma Chamber Geometry on a Caldera Formation
Authors: Somr Michael , Kabele Petr
Published: February 2016

The formation of a caldera poses a serious risk for the society and the environment. There are several established processes (mostly dealing with the conditions inside the reservoir), which must take place in order to reach a collapse leading to the caldera. The role of magma chamber geometry is investigated in this paper, exploiting the numerical modeling. The results indicates that the knowledge of the magmatic system dimensions can provide a helpful factor for an assessment of the caldera formation scenario.
Effect of Curing Humidity on Stiffness of Cement Based Mortars with Recycled Fillers
Authors: Jarolím Mirek , Osvald Andrej , Nežerka Václav , Topič Jaroslav , Ťoupek Richard , Antoš Jakub , Tesárek Pavel
Published: February 2016

Values of the dynamic Young’s modulus were monitored on cement-based samples containing recycled concrete. In particular, the study was focused on investigation of the relationship between the elastic stiffness and amount of recycled microfiller to replace Portland cement. The amount of the microfiller was ranging between 30 and 70 % per weight of the samples. The samples were cured in common laboratory conditions for 50 days, followed by their placement into a water bath for 2 days and consequent natural drying period for 6 days. The development of elastic stiffness was monitored using non-destructive impulse excitation method in order to demonstrate the influence of hydration when the specimens are stored in high humidity. The increase of elastic stiffness proves a secondary hydration of both – Portland cement and cement grains from the recycled cementitious material.
Approximation of Mechanical Fields around Short-Cylinder-Shaped Inclusions by Means of Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Zrůbek Lukáš , Kučerová Anna , Novák Jan
Published: February 2016

In this paper we present our approach to estimate mechanical fields (strains, stresses or displacements) inside isotropic infinite body with isotropic inclusions. Solution can be obtained easily for inclusions with ellipsoidal-like shapes by means of J. D. Eshelby's analytical solution given in 1957. Unfortunately for other distinct shapes of inclusions there is no analytic solution and finite element analysis is quite time consuming option. In our work, we focus on prediction of mechanical response for inclusions in form of short cylinders (e.g. steel fibers in steel-fiber-reinforced concrete) by means of artificial neural network. Which if trained on sufficiently large set of reference examples can predict desired mechanical fields and achieve considerable speed-up at the cost of approximate solution.
Influence of Recycled Materials on Resulting Mechanical Properties of Cement Composites
Authors: Prošek Zdeněk , Topič Jaroslav , Trejbal Jan , Šeps Karel , Tesárek Pavel
Published: February 2016

This article presents the mechanical properties of composite materials based on recycled materials which differ in their composition – type of recycled materials. Dynamic modulus of elasticity was monitored during the first 28 days since manufacture by use of non-destructive testing (resonance method). Flexural strength and compressive strength were determined for the 28 days old specimens. The aim of this article was to determine the influence of type and amount of recycled material on the resulting mechanical properties. Mixtures with 3 different microground materials (recycled concrete, marble powder and silica sand) were tested. Microground materials were produced in the company Lavaris (Czech Republic) by use of high speed grinding. The results obtained from these materials were compared with reference material – cement mortar.
Experimental Investigation of the Interface between Synthetic and Glass Fibers and Lime-Based Mortars
Authors: Přinosil Michal
Published: February 2016

In this article, the cohesion between fiber reinforcement and lime-based mortar is experimentally investigated using so-called pullout test. The experiment is based on the progressive pulling out of the fiber from the matrix. Comparing the experimental load-displacement diagram with the theoretical curve from the analytical model, the micromechanical parameters describing the fiber-matrix interface are evaluated. In the study, several types of synthetic and glass fibers are considered as well as two types of lime-based mortars. The first one is pure lime, while the second one has lime-metakaolin matrix.
Influence of Silica Nanoparticles on Mechanical Properties of HPC
Authors: Laiblová Lenka , Vlach Tomáš , Kumar Anuj , Chira Alexandru
Published: February 2016

Nanotechnology proved to be a useful tool that can significantly improve the mechanical properties of ultra-high performance concrete. This paper presents the results of a long-term research which is focused on the influence of SiO2 nanoparticles on the mechanical properties of high performance concrete. Three types of HPC specimens with a weight content of 0%, 1% and respectively 3% silica nanoparticle were prepared for flexural and compressive tests. SEM analysis was done in order to understand the effect of silica nanoparticle dispersion inside the cement matrix. The aim of this paper was to investigate the nanoparticles dispersion and how it affects concrete’s mechanical properties.
The Features of Parallel Program for 3-D Modeling of Dynamic Processes in Porous Objects with Heat-Evolution
Authors: Tarasov George
Published: February 2016

The 3-D OpenMP parallel version of an algorithm for modeling dynamic processes in porous media with heat-evolution sources is presented. Parallel methods and techniques which were used for significant speed up of final results obtaining are described in detail. The performance results of parallel program for specific configuration of porous object are presented.
Corrections to Kramers Formula Describing the Decay Rate of a Metastable State
Authors: Aktaev N.E. , Bannova K.A.
Published: February 2016

The work investigates the accuracy of the Kramers approximate formula describing the decay rate of a metastable state. The study was performed by comparing the rate obtained through Kramers formula with the quasistationary rate derived by dynamical modeling that was performed by solving the Langevin equation. We have demonstrated that the non-correlation between Kramers rate and dynamical rate reached 15%, while a better correlation was expected. The study allowed us to generate corrections to Kramers formula by accounting for the higher derivatives of the potential. The rate obtained by the corrected formula exhibits the correlation with the dynamic rate of better than 1%.
Bending Process Simulation of a Flat Workpiece with Various Cross-Sectional Mechanical Properties with PAM-STAMP 2G
Authors: Grechnikov Fedor , Gorshkov Yurii , Erisov Yaroslav
Published: February 2016

We have simulated an aluminum workpiece tool bending process with and without consideration of the heat affected zone after laser cutting with PAM-STAMP 2G. To describe the heat affected zone we have used a customized software option for calculating welded materials and dissimilar ones. We have also provided an analysis of the stress-strain state with a different scale of mechanical properties of the material on its “edge” and in the center of the workpiece.
Numerical Modeling of Cyclone Machine for Cleaning Gas Generator Gases
Authors: Biryuk V.V. , Tsapkova A.B. , Shimanov A.A.
Published: February 2016

Analysis of contemporary cyclone gas purification apparatus was carried out in this article Calculation of the characteristics of the counterflow cyclone in application of pressurization system of the LV fuel tanks with gas pressure accumulator has been executed. 3D-model of the counter-flow cyclone was built. Numerical modeling of soot-cleaning process in countercurrent cyclone has been performed using ANSYS Fluent.
Numerical Study of Grain Evolution and Dislocation Density during Asymmetric Rolling of Aluminum Alloy 7075
Authors: Pesin Alexander , Korchunov Alexey , Pustovoytov D.O.
Published: February 2016

The paper gives a mathematical model of grain evolution and dislocation density during asymmetric cold rolling of aluminum alloy 7075 in an SPD mode. Correlations between the effect of equivalent and shear strain on Al 7075 structure are obtained. An agreement of simulation results with experimental data is shown.
Propellant Grain with Maximum Combustion Efficiency of Metal
Authors: Minkov Leonid , Shrager Ernst R. , Pikushchak Elizaveta V.
Published: February 2016

This paper reports on the ways of allocating the metal particles in the propellant grain of tube cross-sectional type to provide maximum combustion efficiency of metal. Two-dimensional flow field and the burning rate law govern a transport of the burning metal particles. The analytical correlation for the optimum allocation of metal particles in the case-bounded propellant grain of tube cross-sectional type under the assumption of equilibrium two-phase flow is deduced.
Technology Development of Large-Size Bodies Manufacturing from Thick Plate Materials Based on Combined Methods of Deformation
Authors: Pesin Alexander , Drigun Ernst , Pustovoytov D.O. , Pesin Ilya
Published: February 2016

The main goal of the investigation is to determine key technological parameters, necessary for producing required curvature of sheets up to 4000 mm in width with the required mechanical properties. Investigation into dynamics of the process' main technological parameters allowed it to define its three characteristic stages: asymmetric rolling, asymmetric rolling in combination with initial unsettled plastic bending, and asymmetric rolling combined with settled plastic bending. It was found out that the intensity of the deformations changes unevenly, depending on the height of the deformation zone, on all three stages, with its highest value being in the lower part of the sheet, and with the lowest value being in its center. In the second stage, the intensity of the deformation abruptly increases, and a significant asymmetry on the sheet thickness occurs. In the third stage, the non-uniformity of the intensity deformations fields decreases. Similar results can be also observed for stress intensities. Casings on two converters were produced and installed in the oxygen-converter plant.
Improving the Quality of the Coating at Hot-Dip Galvanizing of Machine Steels in the Zinc Melt with Microadditives of Nickel
Authors: Bondareva Olga S. , Melnikov Alexey A.
Published: February 2016

The technology of microalloying zinc melt by nickel is widely used to control the thickness of the zinc coating when the machine steels are subject to hot-dip galvanization. However, in some cases inclusions of Ni-Zn-Fe dross are formed on surface of the products, which leads to their deterioration. The aim of this work is to investigate the microstructure, mechanism of formation and elemental composition of this dross. Conditions for the formation of different phases in the coating were analyzed using Ni-Zn-Fe ternary diagram. It was found that Ni-Zn-Fe dross is a ζ-phase containing about 0.5 at. % nickel and isomorphic with FeZn13-phase. The main reasons for the formation of Ni-Zn-Fe dross are Zn-Fe contamination in the melt, the excess nickel concentration (more than 0.06 at.%), and the irregular nickel concentration in the melt. Methods for preventing this type of defects in hot-dip galvanization have been proposed.
Numerical Analysis of Inverse Extremum Problems for the Nonlinear Nonstationary Diffusion-Reaction Equation
Authors: Soboleva O.V. , Fershalov A.Yu.
Published: February 2016

The model of transfer of substance with Dirichlet boundary condition is considered. Inverse extremum problem of identification of the main coefficient in a nonstationary diffusion-reaction equation is formulated. The numerical algorithm based on the conjugate gradient method for solving this extremum problem is developed and is programmed on computer. The results of numerical experiments are discussed.
Interaction Potential of Open Carbon Nanotube with Natural Gas Molecular Components
Authors: Tarasov Egor A.
Published: February 2016

In this paper presents the study of the process of interaction between helium (He) and methane (СH4) molecules and the energy barrier created by a single-layer carbon nanotube. The interaction potential fields for the case of a tube as a nano-scale object interacting with single molecules or atoms were determined. Calculations show the dependence of molecular velocity within the symmetry axis of a single-layer carbon nanotube on the axial coordinate. The influence of the tube radius on the character of molecular passage through the open tube is considered.
Obtaining Nanopowder Ligature Briquettes Ni-(SiC+Si3N4) for Modification of Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Kuzina Antonina A. , Ruchkina Valentina S.
Published: February 2016

The authors investigated the mechanical mixing and compacting briquettes of nickel powder (particle size 30...75 μm) and nanopowder modifier SiC+Si3N4 (particle size 70...100 nanometers), obtained by the azide technology SHS. The mixtures containing 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% of the modifier were investigated. Mechanical mixing was carried out during 60 minutes in planetary mill «Pulverizette-5». Some physic-technological properties of the obtained powder mixtures, such as, particle size distribution, density, bulk weight and flowability, are determined. The powder compositions' pressing was carried out on hydraulic press PSU-50 with pressure 65...700 MPa. Nanopowder ligature briquettes of 18.2 mm diameter, height to 4.2 mm, weighing 5 grams, with relative density 70...89% and porosity 11...30%, intended for subsequent input in aluminum melt with the aim of modification are obtained.
Electrochemical Activity of Methionine at Graphite Electrode Modified with Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Perevezentseva D.O. , Skirdin K.V. , Gorchakov E.V. , Bimatov V.I.
Published: February 2016

The “inverse” cathodic peak of gold nanoparticles is observed in the reaction mixture used to obtain gold nanoparticles HAuCl4:Na3C6H5O7:NaBH4=125:8:1 and accumulation time is 90 s. The conditions in which methionine has the greatest electrochemical activity were determined. They are as follows: the molar ratio of reagents HAuCl4:Na3C6H5O7:NaBH4=125:8:1 and accumulation time is 90 s, 0.1 M NaOH. The mechanism of methionine oxidation is proposed to be on the surface of the graphite electrode modified with gold nanoparticles in 0.1 M NaOH. The determination limit of methionine is 0.7 •10-14 M. The proposed method is simple, sensitive, and does not need toxic substances.