bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Friction Stir Welding Process Parameters on the Mechanical Properties of AA 6061 Aluminum Alloy Using Taguchi Orthogonal Technique
Authors: Ugender Singarapu , Kumar A. , Somi Reddy A.
Published: November 2015

In this investigation, the effect of friction stir welding (FSW) parameters such as D/d ratio, tool tilt angle and welding speed on the mechanical properties of tensile strength, and impact energy of AA 6061 alloy was studied. The experiments were carried out as per Taguchi parametric design concepts and an L9 orthogonal array was used to study the influence of various combinations of process parameters. Statistical optimization technique, ANOVA was used to determine the optimum levels and to find the significance of each process parameter. The results indicate that D/d ratio, welding speed are the most significant factors, followed by tool tilt angle in deciding the mechanical properties of friction stir welding aluminum alloy.
Evaluation of Lamina Properties and Fractographic Studies on Glass/Epoxy, Carbon/Epoxy and Kevlar/Epoxy Composites
Authors: Arockia Julias A. , Ram Kumar N. , Vela Murali
Published: November 2015

In this study the lamina properties of glass/epoxy, carbon/epoxy and kevlar/epoxy composite along their principal coordinate axes were evaluated by performing tensile test. The laminates were prepared by hand lay-up technique and compressed using a compression molding machine at 70 oc and 80 bar pressure. The test was conducted as per ASTM standard D3039 by affixing strain gauges in the specimen to obtain the longitudinal and transverse strain. The mechanism of failure was also studied by performing fractographic analysis using scanning electron microscope which shows peeled off fiber surfaces in the case of kevlar/epoxy laminate.
Experimental and Numerical Study of Multi Hole Extrusion Process
Authors: Charyulu N.V. Narasimha , Janaki Ramulu Perumalla , Reddy K. Thulasiswar , Babu K. Madhu , Srinivas B. , Anurag Ch.
Published: November 2015

The main objective of the present work is the study the experimental and numerical study of multi hole extrusion process for making circular rods. The pure lead is used as extrude material for extrusion. The die consists of 5 holes with 5mm diameter. For prediction work, process has simulated using a Finite Element Method (FEM) code metal forming software DEFORM-3D®. All the experimental work and simulation are done at ambient conditions. The maximum load and maximum ram displacement are calculated for circular rods during the experimental work. From the results, it is noted that the behavior of load vs displacement is almost same for both experimental and numerical study of multi hole extrusion process. This study becomes illustration the behavior of the other tough materials by which one can understand the extrusion behavior of nonferrous materials.
Optimization of Process Parameters of Al-10% Cu Compacts through Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Pravin T. , Sadhasivam M. , Raghuraman S.
Published: November 2015

Powder Metallurgy (P/M) is a manufacturing process in which powders are compacted in a die to attain the final product. P/M has certain unique advantage like controlled porosity, High Strength to weight ratio. Aluminium (Al) is a light weight material, but pure Al does not possess a good strength. To achieve the strength, Copper (Cu) powders are blended at required proportions. Al along with Cu shows good mechanical properties. An attempt is made to optimize the process parameter of Al – 10% Cu powder to attain maximum process efficiency. Here optimization is done by Taghuchi’s method.
An Experimental Study on Performance and Emissions of a CI Engine Fueled with Soybean Biodiesel with Antioxidant
Authors: Chenga Reddy P. , Arumugam S. , Ramakrishna P.
Published: November 2015

In the present investigation, a biodiesel derived from soybean oil with 1, 4-Dioxan was tested as an alternative fuel for agricultural diesel Engine. The performance and emissions studies were conducted for both neat and blended biodiesel (B25, B50, B75 and B100) with and without antioxidant and the comparison is also made with petroleum diesel. On using biodiesel, the emissions of HC and NOx were less compared to diesel. The brake thermal efficiency of B25+1, 4-Dioxan and mechanical efficiency of B50+1, 4-Dioxan is nearly similar to that of diesel.
Performance of SI Engine to Improve the Combustion Characteristics by Using Methanol Blended Petrol
Authors: Basavaraju A.N. , Mallikappa  , Yogesha B.
Published: November 2015

The present energy situation has stimulated active research interest in non-petroleum and non-polluting fuels, particularly for transportation, power generation, and agricultural sectors. This paper describes feasibility of utilization of Spark ignition (SI) engine in single fuel mode and to develop the optimum operating conditions in terms of fuel injection timing and fuel injection pressure. Many modifications were made for the developed direct fuel injection system to improve the performance of the 350 cc four stroke single cylinder petrol engine. The engine is tested to conduct performance, combustion emission characteristics with the aid of carburetor. As single cylinder small engines have low compression ratio (CR), and they run with slightly rich mixture, their power are low and emission values are high. In this study, methanol was used to increase performance and decrease emissions of a single-cylinder engine. Initially, the engine whose CR was 7.5/1 was tested with gasoline and methanol at full load and various speeds. This method is used for increasing the fuel efficiency of a vehicle by adding different percentage of methanol to the petrol and to decrease the pollutants produced during combustion process.
A Novel Walking-Aid for Paralytic Patients Caused due to Stroke
Authors: Indra Tej V. , Sasank G. , Asish M. , Nitheesh M. , Dash Anjan Kumar
Published: November 2015

The aim of this project is to fabricate an economical walking aid for Paralytic patients caused due to a stroke. The Paralysis caused due to stroke is referred as Hemiplegia or Hemiparesis. In general these patients walk with the assistance of another person. The patient first moves his unaffected leg as the assistant holds him firmly to give him support. Then the assistant pushes the impaired leg of the patient with his own leg while supporting him with his hands. In this way walking is achieved for the hemiplegic patient. To eliminate human assistance, the patient can also use a wheel chair to move from one place to another, especially the Autonomous Robotic Wheelchairs (ARW) that are being used these days. However, in order to gain back his motor capabilities, he should promote the use of hemi paretic limb during functional tasks. Active participation is critical to the motor learning and recovery. So designing a mechanism which enables movements on paralyzed body is crucial for functioning of other parts of the body as this prevents blood stagnation due to continuous rest given to specific parts. A DC motor along with some pulleys are used for actuating the leg and a telescopic tripod wheeled balancing support is used for providing counter-torque that helps the person from falling down on paralyzed side.
Testing and Specification of Polymer Concrete Materials in Singapore
Authors: Lu Jin Ping
Published: November 2015

Pure cement mortar and concrete possess disadvantages such as brittleness, low bonding or adhesion strength, low tensile strength, large drying shrinkage, low chemical resistance. In order to overcome these disadvantages, polymer concrete is used as a construction material in Singapore as the properties of polymer-modified (or polymer cement) mortar and concrete are superior to conventional cement mortar. In Singapore, new products or technologies can be found through distributers, agents, etc. Singapore is able to afford and try high quality products to maintain the quality of a building and structure. The importance of applying polymer to protect, repair, coat and strengthen concrete structures in Singapore have grown in the last two decades. To ensure and maintain the standards of construction and building quality, polymer concrete are used extensively in new developments in Singapore. In this paper, the mechanical properties and its corresponding testing methods for several types of polymer concrete used in Singapore are discussed. These products include mortar used to repair concrete spalling, acrylic polymer cementitious coating, waterproofing membrane, epoxy mortars and grouts, fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) and epoxy resin. In addition, the specifications for the above products used in Singapore’s Housing Development Board (HDB) are discussed in the paper as it’s a requirement for suppliers to test their products in accredited laboratories before it can be used.
The Properties of Polymer-Modified Mortars Using Pozzolana Active Admixtures
Authors: Žižková Nikol , Drochytka Rostislav , Bayer Patrik
Published: November 2015

The paper focuses on the changes in properties of cement and polymer-modified cement mortars when pozzolana-active admixture are added into the mixture. Natural and artificial pozzolans based on amorphous and mineral silicon dioxide were used. In order to explain the results obtained from the experiment and to gain new insights about the microstructure of the mixtures, equipment such as SEM sampling, RDA analysis, DTA and high-pressure mercury intrusion porosimetry were used.
Use of Polishing Alumina as Flame Retardant in Orthophthalic Polyester Resin Matrix Composites
Authors: Gorninski Jane Proszek , Tonet K.G. , Sokołowska Joanna Julia
Published: November 2015

The field of Civil Engineering Materials has found a use for a range of industrial waste products as substitutes, that are as effective as standard construction materials but which have the bonus of providing an ecologically sound alternative for materials that would otherwise become an environmental concern. The use of waste materials in polymer composites is a prime example of this practice. These composites display excellent mechanical properties but must be adapted to the combustibility properties. This study aimed to produce polymer concrete composites using waste alumina from metallurgic industrial processing. The composites have an ortophtalic polyester resin as a binder, river sand as aggregates and fly ash as filler. Two kinds of flame retardants were used: a residue, polishing alumina and the other virgin, commercial alumina which were used in four different percentages 15, 30, 45 and 60% in mass in relation to the resin. The samples were subjected to testing of flexural strength, temperature changes of 125, 225 and 325°C and porosity by mercury addition. The results received statistical treatment in order to evaluate the variable significance in relation to the studied properties. In this study the composites displayed flexural strength values around 30 MPa. The statistical analysis showed that the factors temperature changes, addition percentage and the interaction among these factors posed great influence on the studied compositions in relation to the heat resistance testing. In general terms, it can be said that the flame retardant waste, polishing alumina, is an efficient alternative to substitute the trihydrated commercial alumina in the polymer concrete composites with the other components proposed in this study.Key words: polishing alumina, recycling, polymer concrete, fly ash, combustibility
BFRP Bars as an Alternative Reinforcement of Concrete Structures - Compatibility and Adhesion Issues
Authors: Garbacz Andrzej , Urbański Marek , Łapko Andrzej
Published: November 2015

One of the most common causes of damage to concrete structures is the corrosion of the reinforcement. Reinforcement made from Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRP) is considered as an attractive substitution of traditional steel reinforcement. A different technical characteristic of fiber reinforced polymer makes designing structures with FRP reinforcement differs from conventional reinforced concrete design. Therefore, it is necessary to identify the differences and limitations of their use in the concrete structures, taking into account their material and geometrical features. Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) is a relatively new material for reinforcing bars. On the basis of the ACI 440.1R-06 guidelines as well as experimental results for selected BFRP reinforced beams a model of compatibility in a system: BFRP bar - concrete was proposed. Additionally, based on the results of FEM simulations, the effect of BFRP bars ribbing on their adhesion to concrete was discussed.
Improvement of the Adhesion between Epoxy-Based Surface Coating and Hydrophobic Impregnated Concrete
Authors: Kumagai Shinsuke , Sakuraba Hiroki , Miyata Atsushi , Sasaki Iwao , Nishizaki Itaru
Published: November 2015

Surface protection by hydrophobic impregnation and surface coating are widely used for concrete bridges located at coastal area in Japan. This paper deals with the improvement of adhesion between surface coating and hydrophobic impregnated concrete by different types of silanes and by invastigating surface treatment methods. As a result, adhesion between hydrophobic impregnated concrete and epoxy-based surface coating were improved by applying abrasive paper, portable electric grinder, solvent or diluted hydrochloric acid treatment. Especially, using portable electric grinder gave a remarkable improvement to the adhesive property. Also, hybrid-surface protection system consisting of surface coating and hydrophobic impregnation was discussed to prevent blistering.
New Applications for Polymer Overlays
Authors: Whitney David P. , Fowler David W.
Published: November 2015

Polymer concrete (PC) overlays have proven to be a very effective method of extending the lives of bridge decks and improving skid resistance. Many states in the U.S have specifications and have used overlays on hundreds of bridge decks. Multiple-layer epoxy, epoxy and methacrylate slurry, and polyester premixed overlays have been widely used. One of the keys to successful performance is surface preparation. The very light weight, water tightness, good skid resistance, excellent bond to concrete, and excellent durability have made PC overlays a very sustainable solution for increasing the life of bridges and parking garages,
But in recent years very thin overlays referred to as high-friction surface treatments (HFST) have been widely used to provide skid resistance for asphalt pavements in high accident zones, particularly on horizontal curves. Several state departments of transportation (DOTs) have reported very significant reductions in accidents after HFST have been applied. The total length of the application is often only a few hundred meters or less. The cost, when compared to other remedial measures, has been very competitive. The treatments are very similar to very thin slurry overlays. The purpose is not to structurally rehabilitate the pavement, but to provide increased skid resistance for safety. There is also an increased use of thin overlays to provide color for applications including pedestrian and bicycle lanes, bus lanes, entrance and exit ramps, cross walks, and rail road crossings. There are few standards in the U.S. for colors in various applications or for where color should be used. But these thin overlays provide high visibility, skid resistance, and long life. A discussion of these applications, materials and installation methods, and where available, costs, will be presented.
The Performance of Low Air-Entraining Polycarboxylate Superplasticizer
Authors: Li Nan , Ding Bei
Published: November 2015

A new low air-entraining polycarboxylate superplasticizer (denoted as L-PCE) was synthesized by using oxirane/epoxypropane (denoted as EO/PO) block-polyether as one of monomers. The molecular structure of EO/PO block-polyether monomer was characterized by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (denoted as 1H NMR). The pore parameters, workability, and compressive strength of the concrete added with L-PCE were compared to that added with conventional polycarboxylate superplasticizer (denoted as G-PCE) or the G-PCE compounding with defoaming agent. The results demonstrate that the air entraining performance of the L-PCE has been greatly improved than the G-PCE and the G-PCE compounding with defoaming agent. Then the problems, which the workability and slumps of fresh concrete decrease when G-PCE compounding with defoaming agent are added, can be solved. What is more, the interior pore structure of concrete has been optimized. The spacing factor of hardened concrete added with the L-PCE is 27% lower than that added with the G-PCE compounding with defoaming agent. And the 28d strength of the concrete added with the L-PCE is 10% higher than that added with the G-PCE compounding with defoaming agent.
Innovative Applications of Steel Fibres in Concrete Flange of Composite Beam Subjected to Combined Negative Bending and High Axial Tension
Authors: Bavan Mahesan , bin Baharom Shahrizan , Osman Siti Aminah
Published: November 2015

The steel-concrete composite beam has become very popular these days and deterioration of the composite beam and its ultimate limit state are often reported in the subjection of combined negative bending and axial tension. Due to the presence of high axial loads, it was given a guideline in a previous research study by experimental investigation such that the failure modes were reinforcement fracture and shear connection failure in limiting the ultimate limit state of the composite beam subjected to combined negative bending and high axial tension rather than concrete failure. Thus, it is important to study in order to implement the strengthening methods with innovative material applications to overcome this problem. It was assumed that the application of steel fibres in the concrete flange will be an excellent contender owing to its in-service and mechanical properties, which is the hypothesis of this research. In order to evaluate this concept, the finite element (FE) models of a composite beam subjected to negative bending and high axial tension, and steel fibre reinforced concrete (SFRC) slab were developed with non-linear material components and validated with relevant experimental studies. Consequently, the plain concrete flange of composite beam was replaced by SFRC flange and studied the failure behaviour of the composite beam subjected to combined negative bending and high axial tension. It was predicted that an improvement in the ultimate limit state and in initial cracking load due to the postponing the failure modes, which are extensively discussed and suggested as it will be a strengthening method of the concrete flange on the composite beam in such cases.
Innovative Applications of Steel Fibres on Composite Beam with Profiled Plain Concrete Flange Subjected to Combined Negative Bending and Axial Tension
Authors: Bavan Mahesan , bin Baharom Shahrizan , Osman Siti Aminah
Published: November 2015

The introduction of profiled steel sheet is a mature application nowadays on composite construction. A major concern is that there should be an improvement in the degree of shear connection in the negative bending region nearby internal supports due to the unfavourable failure criteria of concrete such that additional shear studs are wanted. Further, such shear studs may be possible to be functioning in insufficient spaces of the troughs owing to the profiled flange. In addition, axial tension will be induced in the steel section based on various cases, which will form an unfavourable failure phenomenon by induced excessive slip. In order to represent all of these criteria, the concern of profiled steel fibre reinforced concrete (SFRC) flange instead of plain concrete flange against the forming of concrete cracks, which results a potential application in postponing the failure mode, is executed and discussed in this paper. The finite element (FE) models were developed to each component in various cases with non-linear material behaviours and validated against the experimental analysis available. It was found that the application of steel fibres in the profiled plain concrete flange can improve the performance of the composite beam subjected to combined negative bending and negative bending such that it would not only postpone the cracking of concrete but also control the propagation of the cracks.
A Functional Polymer Cement Mortar for Repair of Partially Damaged Asphalt Pavement
Authors: Shimizu Susumu , Fujiwara Hiromi , Maruoka Masanori , Matsumura T.
Published: November 2015

A newly polymer cement mortar to repair the rutting and bump of the pavement was developed and studied. In order to satisfy the required performance of the asphalt pavement as repair material, the polymer cement ratio of this mortar went up more than fifty percent. The basic properties such as workability, mechanical properties and adhesion durability of the polymer cement mortar was firstly investigated. Subsequently, the dynamic stability of the composite specimens repaired by the polymer cement mortar was clarified by wheel tracking tests. Finally, the availability of this mortar applied for the repair of the pavement was confirmed by the track running test more than two years.
Concrete Crack Repair with Polymer Modified Materials - The Need for Specialized Training of Applicators, Suppliers, Consultants and Clients
Authors: Bester Jannes , Kruger Deon
Published: November 2015

Concrete repair with polymer modified materials has become an integral part of the civil construction industry. Often, under-performance or even failure of such repairs can be attributed to the incorrect selection, preparation, application or care of the repair process. The root cause of this is basically the lack of adequate knowledge and understanding of the repair material and the repair process by the applicator, the supplier, the consultant and the client. Unfortunately, it seems that there is very little done in terms of the training of these four stakeholders. Decisions regarding repair materials and processes are often based on personal preferences, an elementary cost analysis and convincing sales pitches by some snake-oil salesmen.By using questionnaires designed specifically for each of the four different sectors of the concrete repair industry, a survey was done with regards to the state of training in South Africa in this specialized field. The results indicate that, although there is agreement that polymer-modified concrete patch repair is a highly specialized field; there is an unacceptably low level of training in each of these sectors with regards to the correct selection, application and care of such repair materials. Incorrect specification, inappropriate material selection, misunderstanding of the material properties and inadequate quality control are outcomes of this lack of knowledge and understanding which subsequently may lead to premature failures and/or under-performance of the repair. In addition, the survey results also indicate that the workforce performing the physical repair work, is mainly unskilled and some serious intervention is required to correct this situation.
The Need to Uplift Quality Control and Quality Assurance for Specialized Concrete Crack Repair in the South African Construction Industry
Authors: Bester Jannes , Kruger Deon
Published: November 2015

Concrete patch repair is becoming an important facet of the civil construction industry when considering the large quantity of exposed concrete surfaces requiring maintenance and rehabilitation during its design life cycle. Patch repairs are more often than not done with a specialized polymer-modified mortar which requires adequate quality control and quality assurance during application and curing to ensure long-term success. Unfortunately, there have been many patch repair projects where there has been poor performance of the patch repairs resulting in debonding, cracking and discolouration. In this paper, poor or inadequate quality control during the patch repair process is investigated as one of the possible reasons for poor performance and premature failure . It is postulated that because of the lack of adequate knowledge and understanding of the repair material and the repair process by the various stakeholders (applicator, supplier, consultant and client), deficiencies in the quality control and quality assurance before, during and after the repair project often exists. In many patch repair projects, the responsibility for the successful completion of the patch repair work and the assessment of long term performance of patch repairs is not fully embraced by all of the parties involved.This postulation has led to the research, by using questionnaires designed specifically for the four different stakeholder categories of the concrete repair industry. The results indicate that there is very little discussion amongst the stakeholders regarding quality control and acceptance criteria when performing concrete patch repairs, neither for the identification of patch repair failure directly after the completion of the patch repair, nor for long term performance of the patch repairs.
Properties of Foamed Concrete Using Polymer Based Foaming Admixture
Authors: Sun Joung Soo , Kim Jin Man
Published: November 2015

In Korea, about 48% of all the residents live in apartment houses and about 58% in multi-family houses share the walls and floors with their adjacent households, exposing them directly to noises. Since residents show a stronger demand for the quality of life, the number of civil complaints and disputes on inter-floor noises is constantly increasing every year, from 114 cases in 2005 to 362 cases in 2011, which has been one of the most serious social issues so far. To develop a new technique for the reduction of floor impact sounds, in this study we have investigated how to manufacture foamed concrete having comparatively-heavyweight and high-stiffness, and evaluated the properties of foamed concrete made of different kinds of polymer-based foaming admixture and their concentrations.
S100A8 Production in CXCR2-Expressing CD11b+Gr-1high Cells Aggravates Hepatitis in Mice Fed a High-Fat and High-Cholesterol Diet
Authors: Mukai Kaori , Miyagi Takuya , Nishio Kumiko , Yokoyama Yoshinobu , Yoshioka Teppei , Saito Yoshinobu , Tanaka Satoshi , Shigekawa Minoru , Nawa Takatoshi , Hikita Hayato , Sakamori Ryotaro , Yoshihara Harumasa , Imai Yasuharu , Hiramatsu Naoki , Tatsumi Tomohide , Takehara Tetsuo
Published: November 2015

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disease with a spectrum of presentations. S100A8 has been suggested to play a pivotal role as an endogenous immune-activator in inflammatory diseases. In this study, we investigated the involvement of S100A8 in the development of NAFLD. We used a diet model of NAFLD, in which mice were fed either a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet (HFHCD) or a normal diet (ND) as a control. We also assessed liver tissues from patients with NAFLD, including patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). HFHCD-fed mice, but not ND-fed mice, developed steatohepatitis. S100A8 expression was significantly elevated in the livers of HFHCD-fed mice compared with the controls. S100A8 was exclusively expressed in CXCR2-expressing CD11b+Gr-1high cells, which significantly increased in the livers of HFHCD-fed mice. These cells were F4/80 negative and did not possess a suppressor function. TNF-α expression was enhanced by S100A8 in primary liver leukocytes or a hepatocyte cell line and significantly elevated in the livers of HFHCD-fed mice. TNF-α was primarily produced from CD11b+F4/80+ cells in liver leukocytes in response to S100A8. TNF-α deficiency attenuated hepatitis in HFHCD-fed mice. S100A8 was significantly more expressed in the liver tissues of patients with NASH than in those of patients with NAFL. In conclusion, these results suggest that S100A8 is primarily produced from CXCR2-expressing CD11b+Gr-1high cells, and it upregulates TNF-α production in CD11b+F4/80+ cells through cellular cross-talk, which is an important mechanism in the development of NAFLD.
Monocyte Stabilin-1 Suppresses the Activation of Th1 Lymphocytes
Authors: Palani Senthil , Elima Kati , Ekholm Eeva , Jalkanen Sirpa , Salmi Marko
Published: November 2015

In this study, we analyzed the putative functions of stabilin-1 in blood monocytes. Microarray analysis revealed downregulation of several proinflammatory genes in the stabilin-1high monocytes when compared with stabilin-1low monocytes. When cocultured with stabilin-1high monocytes, IFN-γ synthesis by T cells was diminished in Ag-recall assays. Knockdown of stabilin-1 in monocytes increased the synthesis of several proinflammatory molecules, including TNF-α, and supported high IFN-γ and low IL-4 and IL-5 production by T cells in Ag-specific stimulation assays. Anti–stabilin-1 Ab treatment also led to increased IFN-γ synthesis in the recall assays. In clinical settings, the expression of stabilin-1 was diminished on blood monocytes and tissue macrophages under proinflammatory conditions. These data define stabilin-1 as a new immunosuppressive molecule and suggest that stabilin-1high monocytes may dampen proinflammatory reactions in vivo.
TCRVγ9 γδ T Cell Response to IL-33: A CD4 T Cell–Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Duault Caroline , Franchini Don Marc , Familliades Julien , Cayrol Corinne , Roga Stéphane , Girard Jean-Philippe , Fournié Jean-Jacques , Poupot Mary
Published: November 2015

The availability of specific stimuli to induce the anticancer cytotoxicity of human TCRVγ9-expressing T lymphocytes has allowed the development of γδ T cell–based cancer immunotherapies. However, the stringent dependence of such strategies on the inherently toxic IL-2 has raised safety concerns for patients, justifying a search for alternative methods for inducing γδ T cell stimulation. IL-33 is a γ-chain receptor-independent cytokine of the IL-1 superfamily that is expressed by endothelial cells from a tumor microenvironment and can sustain Th1 and Th2 immune responses. Therefore, we investigated its ability to support the stimulation of human TCRVγ9+ γδ T cells. In this study, we report that IL-33 efficiently sustained the in vitro activation of Vγ9 T lymphocytes by synthetic phosphoantigens, zoledronate, and a BTN3A1 Ab in the absence of an exogenous supply of IL-2. IL-33 was as potent as IL-2 in allowing the proliferative amplification of Vγ9 T cells isolated from PBMC following activation by the synthetic phosphoantigen bromohydrin pyrophosphate. IL-33 also induced an identical maturation into TNF-α– and IFN-γ–producing Th1 effector memory cells, and IL-33–stimulated cells showed an equivalent cytotoxicity for various tumor cells in vitro. Finally, we found that the bioactivity of IL-33 on the Vγ9 T cell was indirectly mediated through contact with CD4 T cells and IL-2 production by CD4 T cells and Vγ9 T cells themselves. These data posit IL-33 as an alternative to IL-2 for Vγ9 T cell–based cancer immunotherapies.
Priming of Qualitatively Superior Human Effector CD8+ T Cells Using TLR8 Ligand Combined with FLT3 Ligand
Authors: Lissina Anna , Briceño Olivia , Afonso Georgia , Larsen Martin , Gostick Emma , Price David A. , Mallone Roberto , Appay Victor
Published: November 2015

The quality of Ag-specific CD8+ T cell responses is central to immune efficacy in infectious and malignant settings. Inducing effector CD8+ T cells with potent functional properties is therefore a priority in the field of immunotherapy. However, the optimal assessment of new treatment strategies in humans is limited by currently available testing platforms. In this study, we introduce an original model of in vitro CD8+ T cell priming, based on an accelerated dendritic cell coculture system, which uses unfractionated human PBMCs as the starting material. This approach enables the rapid evaluation of adjuvant effects on the functional properties of human CD8+ T cells primed from Ag-specific naive precursors. We demonstrate that a selective TLR8 agonist, in combination with FLT3L, primes high-quality CD8+ T cell responses. TLR8L/FLT3L-primed CD8+ T cells displayed enhanced cytotoxic activity, polyfunctionality, and Ag sensitivity. The acquisition of this superior functional profile was associated with increased T-bet expression induced via an IL-12–dependent mechanism. Collectively, these data validate an expedited route to vaccine delivery or optimal T cell expansion for adoptive cell transfer.
Glucose Oxidation Is Critical for CD4+ T Cell Activation in a Mouse Model of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Yin Yiming , Choi Seung-Chul , Xu Zhiwei , Zeumer Leilani , Kanda Nathalie , Croker Byron P. , Morel Laurence
Published: November 2015

We have previously shown that CD4+ T cells from B6.Sle1Sle2.Sle3 lupus mice and patients present a high cellular metabolism, and a treatment combining 2-deoxy-d-glucose, which inhibits glucose metabolism, and metformin, which inhibits oxygen consumption, normalized lupus T cell functions in vitro and reverted disease in mice. We obtained similar results with B6.lpr mice, another model of lupus, and showed that a continuous treatment is required to maintain the beneficial effect of metabolic inhibitors. Further, we investigated the relative roles of glucose oxidation and pyruvate reduction into lactate in this process. Treatments of B6.Sle1Sle2.Sle3 mice with either 2-deoxy-d-glucose or metformin were sufficient to prevent autoimmune activation, whereas their combination was necessary to reverse the process. Treatment of B6.Sle1Sle2.Sle3 mice with dichloroacetate, an inhibitor of lactate production, failed to effectively prevent or reverse autoimmune pathology. In vitro, CD4+ T cell activation upregulated the expression of genes that favor oxidative phosphorylation. Blocking glucose oxidation inhibited both IFN-γ and IL-17 production, which could not be achieved by blocking pyruvate reduction. Overall, our data show that targeting glucose oxidation is required to prevent or reverse lupus development in mice, which cannot be achieved by simply targeting the pyruvate-lactate conversion.
The Group B Streptococcus–Secreted Protein CIP Interacts with C4, Preventing C3b Deposition via the Lectin and Classical Complement Pathways
Authors: Pietrocola Giampiero , Rindi Simonetta , Rosini Roberto , Buccato Scilla , Speziale Pietro , Margarit Immaculada
Published: November 2015

The group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a leading cause of neonatal invasive disease. GBS bacteria are surrounded by a thick capsular polysaccharide that is a potent inhibitor of complement deposition via the alternative pathway. Several of its surface molecules can however activate the classical and lectin complement pathways, rendering this species still vulnerable to phagocytic killing. In this study we have identified a novel secreted protein named complement interfering protein (CIP) that downregulates complement activation via the classical and lectin pathways, but not the alternative pathway. The CIP protein showed high affinity toward C4b and inhibited its interaction with C2, presumably preventing the formation of the C4bC2a convertase. Addition of recombinant CIP to GBS cip-negative bacteria resulted in decreased deposition of C3b on their surface and in diminished phagocytic killing in a whole-blood assay. Our data reveal a novel strategy exploited by GBS to counteract innate immunity and could be valuable for the development of anti-infective agents against this important pathogen.
Proposal for progressive loading of the hip abductors under mechanically unstable conditions: An electromyography study
Authors: Sarabon Nejc , Polona Palma , Burggraf Samantha
Published: November 2015

The aim of this study was to test the effect of the stance width and asymmetry on muscle activation patterns during balancing on a tilt board. Eleven young healthy volunteers took part in the tests. After the standardized warm-up and customization protocol had been carried out, they balanced five times for 60 seconds on a tilt board, using a different foot position each time - (i) wide symmetrical, (ii) narrow symmetrical, (iii) moderate asymmetrical, (iv) extreme asymmetrical, and (v) single leg. Pair of electromyographic electrodes was glued over the gluteus medius muscle on both sides from which signals were acquired. The average values of the pre-processed signals were normalized and quantified. Repeated measures analysis of variance and t-tests revealed a systematic effect of the foot positions on the amount of the gluteus medius activation. Its activation was significantly increased in both asymmetrical stances when the foot was moved closer to the tilt board`s axis of rotation and most prominently when the single leg stance was used. These results point out the importance of the foot positioning for the actual muscle function while balancing on a tilt board. We believe that different levels of feet positioning asymmetry should be used for gradual loading of the extremity and for provoking activity in hip side stabilizers.
Subclinical myopathy in patients with colorectal cancer: clinical-pathological characterization and search for tissue markers
Authors: Vecchiato Massimo , Zampieri Sandra , Merigliano Stefano
Published: November 2015

Skeletal muscle in patients with cancer undergoes many morphological changes due to immuno-inflammatory factors of tumor origin or treatment.T he latest event of these changes is cancer cachexia. Aim of the study is to identify myopathic features in skeletal muscle biopsies from weight stable patients with colorectal cancer and without cachexia or asthenia / weakness, that could possibly provide new diagnostic and prognostic cancer biomarkers. Morphometric analyses and immunohistochemical studies were performed on intraoperative muscle biopsies from patients with colorectal cancer and from weight stable patients undergoing surgery for benign non-inflammatory conditions. A rectus abdominis biopsy was taken in all patients and controls.A correlation between histopathologic findings and clinical characteristics, circulating inflammatory biomarkers and markers of muscle necrosis,surgery data and cancer phenotype were investigated.. Forty four patients (21male/23 female) and 17 controls (6 male/11 female) (p=NS) were studied. In cancer patients’biopsies we observed asubclinical myopathy characterized by an abnormal distribution of myonuclei, which are localized inside the myofiber rather than at the periphery, and by the presence of regenerating muscle fibers. The percentage of myofibers with internalized nuclei is significantly higher in patients (median= 9%, IQR= 3.7-18.8) than in controls (median= 2.7%, IQR= 1.7-3.2) ( p=0.0002). In patients we observed an inverse correlation between the number of centronucleated fibers and the presence of node metastasis (N+)(ρ)=-0.64 (p=0.002). Patients affected with colorectal cancer display early sign of a myopathy, characterized by centronucleated and regenerating myofibers. This myopathy appears to be associated with an early stage of neoplasia and it could be an adaptive response of muscle to cancer. We hope a future application of these findings as a possible early diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of neoplasia.
FES Training in Aging: interim results show statistically significant improvements in mobility and muscle fiber size
Authors: Kern Helmut , Loefler Stefan , Hofer Christian , Vogelauer Michael , Burggraf Samantha , Grim-Stieger Martina , Cvecka Jan , Hamar Dusan , Sarabon Nejc , Protasi Feliciano , Musarò Antonio , Sandri Marco , Rossini Katia , Carraro Ugo , Zampieri Sandra
Published: November 2015

Aging is a multifactorial process that is characterized by decline in muscle mass and performance. Several factors, including reduced exercise, poor nutrition and modified hormonal metabolism, are responsible for changes in the rates of protein synthesis and degradation that drive skeletal muscle mass reduction with a consequent decline of force generation and mobility functional performances. Seniors with normal life style were enrolled: two groups in Vienna (n=32) and two groups in Bratislava: (n=19). All subjects were healthy and declared not to have any specific physical/disease problems. The two Vienna groups of seniors exercised for 10 weeks with two different types of training (leg press at the hospital or home-based functional electrical stimulation, h-b FES). Demografic data (age, height and weight) were recorded before and after the training period and before and after the training period the patients were submitted to mobility functional analyses and muscle biopsies. The mobility functional analyses were: 1. gait speed (10m test fastest speed, in m/s); 2. time which the subject needed to rise from a chair for five times (5x Chair-Rise, in s); 3. Timed –Up-Go- Test, in s; 4. Stair-Test, in s; 5. isometric measurement of quadriceps force (Torque/kg, in Nm/kg); and 6. Dynamic Balance in mm. Preliminary analyses of muscle biopsies from quadriceps in some of the Vienna and Bratislava patients present morphometric results consistent with their functional behaviors. The statistically significant improvements in functional testings here reported demonstrates the effectiveness of h-b FES, and strongly support h-b FES, as a safe home-based method to improve contractility and performances of ageing muscles.
Gait analysis, bone and muscle density assessment for patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Magnússon Benedikt , Jónsson jr Halldór , Pétursson Þröstur , Magnúsdóttir Gígja , Halldórsson Grétar , Triebel Jan , Gargiulo Paolo
Published: November 2015

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is performed with or without the use of bone cement. Facing the lack of reliable clinical guidelines on decision making whether a patient should receive THA with or without bone cement, a joint clinical and engineering approach is proposed here with the objective to assess patient recovery developing monitoring techniques based on gait analysis, measurements of bone mineral density and structural and functional changes of quadriceps muscles. A clinical trial was conducted with 36 volunteer patients that were undergoing THA surgery for the first time: 18 receiving cemented implant and 18 receiving non-cemented implant. The patients are scanned with Computer Tomographic (CT) modality prior-, immediately- and 12 months post-surgery. The CT data are further processed to segment muscles and bones for calculating bone mineral density (BMD). Quadriceps muscle density Hounsfield (HU) based value is calculated from the segmented file on healthy and operated leg before and after THA surgery. Furthermore clinical assessment is performed using gait analysis technologies such as a sensing carpet, wireless electrodes and video. Patients undergo these measurements prior-, 6 weeks post - and 52 weeks post-surgery. The preliminary results indicate computational tools and methods that are able to quantitatively analyze patient’s condition pre and post-surgery: The spatial parameters such as step length and stride length increase 6 weeks post op in the patient group receiving cemented implant while the angle in the toe in/out parameter decrease in both patient groups.
Electrical stimulation counteracts muscle atrophy associated with aging in humans
Authors: Kern Helmut , Loefler Stefan , Burggraf Samantha , Fruhmann Hannah , Cvecka Jan , Sedliak Milan , Barberi Laura , De Rossi Manuela , Musarò Antonio , Carraro Ugo , Mosole Simone , Zampieri Sandra
Published: November 2015

Functional and structural muscle decline is a major problem during aging. Our goal was to improve in old subjects quadriceps m. force and mobility functional performances (stair test, chair rise test, timed up and go test) with neuromuscular electrical stimulation (9 weeks, 2-3times/week, 20-30 minutes per session). Furthermore we performed histological and biological molecular analyses of vastus lateralis m. biopsies. Our findings demonstrate that electrical stimulation significantly improved mobility functional performancies and muscle histological characteristics and molecular markers.
X Annual Meeting of the Interuniversity Institute of Myology | Borgo San Luigi, Italy, October 10-13, 2013
Authors: Editors The
Published: November 2015

Not available.
Evidence based medicine in physical medicine and rehabilitation (German version)
Authors: Kern Helmut , Loefler Stefan , Fialka-Moser Veronika , Paternostro-Sluga Tatjana , Crevenna Richard , Burggraf Samantha , Fruhmann Hannah , Hofer Christian , Burmester Claudia , Strasser Eva-Maria , Praschak Markus , Grestenberger Wolfgang , Hartl Friedrich , Ebenbichler Gerold , Wiesinger Günther , Bochdansky Thomas , Wiederer Christian , Quittan Michael
Published: November 2015

In the last twenty years the term “Evidence Based Medicine (EBM)” has been increasingly applied in all areas of medicine and is often used for decision-making in the medical and public health sector. It is also used to verify the significance and/or the effectiveness of different therapies. The original definition of EBM rests on the following three pillars: the physician’s individual expertise, the patient’s needs and the best external evidence. Today, however, the term EBM is often wrongly used as a synonym for best external evidence, without taking into consideration the other two pillars of the model which was created by Gordon Guyatt, David Sackett and Archibald Cochrane. This problem becomes even greater the more social insurance institutions and politicians use external evidence alone as the main guideline for financing therapies and therapy guidelines in physical medicine and general rehabilitation without taking into account the physician’s expertise and the patient’s needs.The wrong interpretation of EBM can lead to the following problems: well established clinical therapies are either questioned or not granted and are therefore withheld from patients (for example physical pain management). An absence of evidence for individual therapy methods does not prove their ineffectiveness! In this short statement the significance of EBM in Physical Medicine and general rehabilitation will be analysed and discussed.
Abstracts of the XI Annual Meeting of the Interuniversity Institute of Myology | Borgo San Luigi Monteriggioni (Siena), Italy, October 2-5, 2014
Authors: Editors The
Published: November 2015

Not available.
Single-particle cryo-EM of the ryanodine receptor channel
Authors: Baker Mariah R. , Fan Guizhen , Serysheva Irina I.
Published: November 2015

Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) are tetrameric ligand-gated Ca2+ release channels that are responsible for the increase of cytosolic Ca2+ concentration leading to muscle contraction. Our current understanding of RyR channel gating and regulation is greatly limited due to the lack of a high-resolution structure of the channel protein. The enormous size and unwieldy shape of Ca2+ release channels make X-ray or NMR methods difficult to apply for high-resolution structural analysis of the full-length functional channel. Single-particle electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) is one of the only effective techniques for the study of such a large integral membrane protein and its molecular interactions. Despite recent developments in cryo-EM technologies and break-through single-particle cryo-EM studies of ion channels, cryospecimen preparation, particularly the presence of detergent in the buffer, remains the main impediment to obtaining atomic-resolution structures of ion channels and a multitude of other integral membrane protein complexes. In this review we will discuss properties of several detergents that have been successfully utilized in cryo-EM studies of ion channels and the emergence of the detergent alternative amphipol to stabilize ion channels for structure-function characterization. Future structural studies of challenging specimen like ion channels are likely to be facilitated by cryo-EM amenable detergents or alternative surfactants.