bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Hot Rolling and Heat Treatment on the Microstructural Evolution of β20C Titanium Alloy
Authors: Liu Xin , Yu Donghui , Fan Qunbo , Shi Ran
Published: September 2017

The microstructural evolution and underlying mechanism of a new high strength, high toughness near β titanium alloy, β20C, during hot deformation, and heat treatment were studied qualitatively and quantitatively. It was found that dynamic recovery occurs mainly in β phase, while α phase undergoes both a dynamic recovery and continuous incomplete dynamic recrystallization with a fraction of high-angle grain boundaries (≥15°) of 21.1% under hot-rolling. Subsequently, α phase undergoes static recrystallization with an increasing fraction of high-angle grain boundaries (21.1%→60.7%) under annealing, while the grains are equiaxed with refined grain sizes of 1.63 µm observed from the rolling direction (RD) and 1.66 µm observed from the transverse direction (TD). Moreover, the average aspect ratio of the lamellar α phase was 2.44 observed from the RD and 3.12 observed from the TD after hot rolling, but decreased to 2.20 observed from the RD, and 2.53 observed from the TD after annealing. Furthermore, the strict Burgers’ relationship between α and β phases changed after hot-rolling and remains the distortion, even after the static recrystallization process of α phase during annealing.
Effects of the Preparation Solvent on the Catalytic Properties of Cobalt–Boron Alloy for the Hydrolysis of Alkaline Sodium Borohydride
Authors: Zou Yongjin , Gao Yubo , Huang Pengru , Xiang Cuili , Chu Hailiang , Qiu Shujun , Yan Erhu , Xu Fen , Sun Lixian
Published: September 2017

In this study, the effects of the solvent used to prepare Co–B alloy on its catalytic properties were investigated. The solvent effects on the morphology, composition, and specific surface area of the alloy particles were also examined. The morphology of the alloy particles was found to be dependent on the solvent. The particles were granular in water, methanol, and acetone, although the particle diameters differed, whereas they were nanoflake-like in acetonitrile. Acetonitrile produced the largest surface area of the alloy particles, but the lowest catalytic activity for the hydrolysis of NaBH4 owing to the ready oxidation of the particles in air. The Co–B in acetone exhibited the highest catalytic activity, represented by a hydrogen generation rate of 5733 mL·min−1·g−1 during the hydrolysis of 1.5 wt % NaBH4 at 298 K. This hydrogen generation rate is more than twice that produced by the Co–B in water.
Rapid and Highly Sensitive Non-Competitive Immunoassay for Specific Detection of Nodularin
Authors: Akter Sultana , Vehniäinen Markus , Kankaanpää Harri , Lamminmäki Urpo
Published: September 2017

Nodularin (NOD) is a cyclic penta-peptide hepatotoxin mainly produced by Nodularia spumigena, reported from the brackish water bodies of various parts of the world. It can accumulate in the food chain and, for safety reasons, levels of NOD not only in water bodies but also in food matrices are of interest. Here, we report on a non-competitive immunoassay for the specific detection of NOD. A phage display technique was utilized to interrogate a synthetic antibody phage library for binders recognizing NOD bound to an anti-ADDA (3-Amino-9-methoxy-2,6,8-trimethyl-10-phenyldeca-4(E),6(E)-dienoic acid) monoclonal antibody (Mab). One of the obtained immunocomplex binders, designated SA32C11, showed very high specificity towards nodularin-R (NOD-R) over to the tested 10 different microcystins (microcystin-LR, -dmLR, -RR, -dmRR, -YR, -LY, -LF, -LW, -LA, -WR). It was expressed in Escherichia coli as a single chain antibody fragment (scFv) fusion protein and used to establish a time-resolved fluorometry-based assay in combination with the anti-ADDA Mab. The detection limit (blank + 3SD) of the immunoassay, with a total assay time of 1 h 10 min, is 0.03 µg/L of NOD-R. This represents the most sensitive immunoassay method for the specific detection of NOD reported so far. The assay was tested for its performance to detect NOD using spiked (0.1 to 3 µg/L of NOD-R) water samples including brackish sea and coastal water and the recovery ranged from 79 to 127%. Furthermore, a panel of environmental samples, including water from different sources, fish and other marine tissue specimens, were analyzed for NOD using the assay. The assay has potential as a rapid screening tool for the analysis of a large number of water samples for the presence of NOD. It can also find applications in the analysis of the bioaccumulation of NOD in marine organisms and in the food chain.
The Effect of Nutrition Therapy and Exercise on Cancer-Related Fatigue and Quality of Life in Men with Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Baguley Brenton , Bolam Kate , Wright Olivia , Skinner Tina
Published: September 2017

Background: Improvements in diet and/or exercise are often advocated during prostate cancer treatment, yet the efficacy of, and optimal nutrition and exercise prescription for managing cancer-related fatigue and quality of life remains elusive. The aim of this study is to systematically review the effects of nutrition and/or exercise on cancer-related fatigue and/or quality of life. Methods: A literature search was conducted in six electronic databases. The Delphi quality assessment list was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the literature. The study characteristics and results were summarized in accordance with the review’s Population, Intervention, Control, Outcome (PICO) criteria. Results: A total of 20 articles (one diet only, two combined diet and exercise, and seventeen exercise only studies) were included in the review. Soy supplementation improved quality of life, but resulted in several adverse effects. Prescribing healthy eating guidelines with combined resistance training and aerobic exercise improved cancer-related fatigue, yet its effect on quality of life was inconclusive. Combined resistance training with aerobic exercise showed improvements in cancer-related fatigue and quality of life. In isolation, resistance training appears to be more effective in improving cancer-related fatigue and quality of life than aerobic exercise. Studies that utilised an exercise professional to supervise the exercise sessions were more likely to report improvements in both cancer-related fatigue and quality of life than those prescribing unsupervised or partially supervised sessions. Neither exercise frequency nor duration appeared to influence cancer-related fatigue or quality of life, with further research required to explore the potential dose-response effect of exercise intensity. Conclusion: Supervised moderate-hard resistance training with or without moderate-vigorous aerobic exercise appears to improve cancer-related fatigue and quality of life. Targeted physiological pathways suggest dietary intervention may alleviate cancer-related fatigue and improve quality of life, however the efficacy of nutrition management with or without exercise prescription requires further exploration.
Effect of Oral Pre-Meal Administration of Betaglucans on Glycaemic Control and Variability in Subjects with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Frid Anders , Tura Andrea , Pacini Giovanni , Ridderstråle Martin
Published: September 2017

We conducted a double-blind placebo-controlled crossover pilot study to investigate the effect of oat betaglucans (β-glucan) on glycaemic control and variability in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D; n = 14). Stomacol® tablets (1.53 g of β-glucan) or placebo (Plac) were administered three times daily before meals for two weeks. Glucose levels were monitored during the second week by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). There was an increase in basic measures of glycaemic control (maximal glucose value 341 ± 15 vs. 378 ± 13 mg/dL for Plac and β-glucan, p = 0.004), and average daily risk range (62 ± 5 vs. 79 ± 4 mg/dL for Plac and β-glucan, p = 0.003) favouring Plac over β-glucan, but no increase in the M-value (the weighted average of the glucose values) or other more complex measures. Basic measures of glucose variability were also slightly increased during β-glucan treatment, with no difference in more complex measures. However, glycaemic variability increased between the first and last two CGM days on Plac, but remained unchanged on β-glucan. In conclusion, in this pilot study we were unable to demonstrate a general positive effect of β-glucan before meals on glucose control or variability in T1D.
Higher Protein Intake Does Not Improve Lean Mass Gain When Compared with RDA Recommendation in Postmenopausal Women Following Resistance Exercise Protocol: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Rossato Luana , Nahas Paula , De Branco Flávia , Martins Fernanda , Souza Aletéia , Carneiro Marcelo , Orsatti Fábio , De Oliveira Erick
Published: September 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a higher protein intake on lean body mass (LBM) gain in postmenopausal women practicing resistance exercise and compare it to the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) recommendation. Twenty-three postmenopausal women (63.2 ± 7.8 years) were randomized into two groups. The group with higher protein intake (n = 11) (HP) received a dietary plan with ~1.2 g·kg−1·day−1 of protein, while the normal protein (NP) group (n = 12) was instructed to ingest ~0.8 g·kg−1·day−1 of protein (RDA recommendation). Both groups performed the same resistance training protocol, 3 times a week, with progression of the number of sets (from 1 to 6 sets) and 8–12 repetitions. The intervention occurred over 10 weeks. Body composition evaluation was performed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The diet was evaluated by nine 24-h food recall summaries over the course of the study. During the intervention period, the HP group presented a higher protein (1.18 ± 0.3 vs. 0.87 ± 0.2 g·kg−1·day−1, p = 0.008) and leucine (6.0 ± 1.4 vs. 4.3 ± 0.9 g/day, p < 0.001) intake than the NP group, respectively. At the end of the intervention, there were increases in LBM both in HP (37.1 ± 6.2 to 38.4 ± 6.5 kg, p = 0.004) and in NP (37.6 ± 6.2 to 38.8 ± 6.4 kg, p < 0.001), with no differences between the groups (p = 0.572). In conclusion, increased protein intake did not promote higher LBM gain when compared to RDA recommendation in postmenopausal women performing resistance exercise during 10 weeks. This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT03024125.
Interaction of Recombinant Gallus gallus SEPT5 and Brain Proteins of H5N1-Avian Influenza Virus-Infected Chickens
Authors: Khairat Jasmine Elanie , Balasubramaniam Vinod , Othman Iekhsan , Omar Abdul Rahman , Hassan Sharifah Syed
Published: September 2017

Septin forms a conserved family of cytoskeletal guanosine triphosphate (GTP) binding proteins that have diverse roles in protein scaffolding, vesicle trafficking, and cytokinesis. The involvement of septins in infectious viral disease pathogenesis has been demonstrated by the upregulation of SEPT5 protein and its mRNA in brain tissues of H5N1-infected chickens, thus, providing evidence for the potential importance of this protein in the pathogenesis of neurovirulence caused by the avian influenza virus. In this study, cloning, expression, and purification of Gallus gallus SEPT5 protein was performed in Escherichia coli. The SEPT5 gene was inserted into the pRSETB expression vector, transformed in the E. coli BL21 (DE3) strain and the expression of SEPT5 protein was induced by IPTG. The SEPT5 protein was shown to be authentic as it was able to be pulled down by a commercial anti-SEPT5 antibody in a co-immunoprecipitation assay. In vivo aggregation of the recombinant protein was limited by cultivation at a reduced temperature of 16 °C. Using co-immunoprecipitation techniques, the purified recombinant SEPT5 protein was used to pull down host’s interacting or binding proteins, i.e., proteins of brains of chickens infected with the H5N1 influenza virus. Interacting proteins, such as CRMP2, tubulin proteins, heat-shock proteins and other classes of septins were identified using LCMS/MS. Results from this study suggest that the codon-optimized SEPT5 gene can be efficiently expressed in the E. coli bacterial system producing authentic SEPT5 protein, thus, enabling multiple host’s proteins to interact with the SEPT5 protein.
A Modified Normalized Difference Impervious Surface Index (MNDISI) for Automatic Urban Mapping from Landsat Imagery
Authors: Sun Zhongchang , Wang Cuizhen , Guo Huadong , Shang Ranran
Published: September 2017

Impervious surface area (ISA) is a key factor for monitoring urban environment and land development. Automatic mapping of impervious surfaces has attracted growing attention in recent years. Spectral built-up indices are considered promising to map ISA distributions due to their easy, parameter-free implementations. This study explores the potentials of impervious surface indices for ISA mapping from Landsat imagery using a case study area in Boston, USA. A modified normalized difference impervious surface index (MNDISI) is proposed, and a Gaussian-based automatic threshold selection method is used to identify the optimal MNDISI threshold for delineating impervious surfaces from background features. To evaluate its effectiveness, comparison analysis is conducted between MNDISI and the original NDISI using Landsat images from three sensors (TM/ETM+/OLI-TIRS) acquired in four seasons. Our results suggest that built-up indices are sensitive to image seasonality, and summer is the best time phase for ISA mapping. With reduced uncertainties from automatic threshold selection, the MNDISI extracts impervious surfaces from all Landsat images in summer with an overall accuracy higher than 87% and an overall Kappa coefficient higher than 0.74. The proposed method is superior to previous index-based ISA mapping from the enhanced thermal integration and automatic threshold selection. The ISA maps from the TM, ETM+ and OLI-TIRS images are not significantly different. With enlarged data pool when all Landsat sensors are considered and automation of threshold selection proposed in this study, the MNDISI could be an effective built-up index for rapid and automatic ISA mapping at regional and global scales.
An Alternative Approach to Using LiDAR Remote Sensing Data to Predict Stem Diameter Distributions across a Temperate Forest Landscape
Authors: Spriggs Rebecca , Coomes David , Jones Trevor , Caspersen John , Vanderwel Mark
Published: September 2017

We apply a spatially-implicit, allometry-based modelling approach to predict stem diameter distributions (SDDs) from low density airborne LiDAR data in a heterogeneous, temperate forest in Ontario, Canada. Using a recently published algorithm that relates the density, size, and species of individual trees to the height distribution of first returns, we estimated parameters that succinctly describe SDDs that are most consistent with each 0.25-ha LiDAR tile across a 30,000 ha forest landscape. Tests with independent validation plots showed that the diameter distribution of stems was predicted with reasonable accuracy in most cases (half of validation plots had R2 ≥ 0.75, and another 23% had 0.5 ≤ R2 < 0.75). The predicted frequency of larger stems was much better than that of small stems (8 ≤ x < 11 cm diameter), particularly small conifers. We used the predicted SDDs to calculate aboveground carbon density (ACD; RMSE = 21.4 Mg C/ha), quadratic mean diameter (RMSE = 3.64 cm), basal area (RMSE = 6.99 m2/ha) and stem number (RMSE = 272 stems/ha). The accuracy of our predictions compared favorably with previous studies that have generally been undertaken in simpler conifer-dominated forest types. We demonstrate the utility of our results to spatial forest management planning by mapping SDDs, the proportion of broadleaves, and ACD at a 0.25 ha resolution.
Wireless Technology Recognition Based on RSSI Distribution at Sub-Nyquist Sampling Rate for Constrained Devices
Authors: Liu Wei , Kulin Merima , Kazaz Tarik , Shahid Adnan , Moerman Ingrid , De Poorter Eli
Published: September 2017

Driven by the fast growth of wireless communication, the trend of sharing spectrum among heterogeneous technologies becomes increasingly dominant. Identifying concurrent technologies is an important step towards efficient spectrum sharing. However, due to the complexity of recognition algorithms and the strict condition of sampling speed, communication systems capable of recognizing signals other than their own type are extremely rare. This work proves that multi-model distribution of the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) is related to the signals’ modulation schemes and medium access mechanisms, and RSSI from different technologies may exhibit highly distinctive features. A distinction is made between technologies with a streaming or a non-streaming property, and appropriate feature spaces can be established either by deriving parameters such as packet duration from RSSI or directly using RSSI’s probability distribution. An experimental study shows that even RSSI acquired at a sub-Nyquist sampling rate is able to provide sufficient features to differentiate technologies such as Wi-Fi, Long Term Evolution (LTE), Digital Video Broadcasting-Terrestrial (DVB-T) and Bluetooth. The usage of the RSSI distribution-based feature space is illustrated via a sample algorithm. Experimental evaluation indicates that more than 92% accuracy is achieved with the appropriate configuration. As the analysis of RSSI distribution is straightforward and less demanding in terms of system requirements, we believe it is highly valuable for recognition of wideband technologies on constrained devices in the context of dynamic spectrum access.
Dynamic Reconstruction Algorithm of Three-Dimensional Temperature Field Measurement by Acoustic Tomography
Authors: Li Yanqiu , Liu Shi , Inaki Schlaberg
Published: September 2017

Accuracy and speed of algorithms play an important role in the reconstruction of temperature field measurements by acoustic tomography. Existing algorithms are based on static models which only consider the measurement information. A dynamic model of three-dimensional temperature reconstruction by acoustic tomography is established in this paper. A dynamic algorithm is proposed considering both acoustic measurement information and the dynamic evolution information of the temperature field. An objective function is built which fuses measurement information and the space constraint of the temperature field with its dynamic evolution information. Robust estimation is used to extend the objective function. The method combines a tunneling algorithm and a local minimization technique to solve the objective function. Numerical simulations show that the image quality and noise immunity of the dynamic reconstruction algorithm are better when compared with static algorithms such as least square method, algebraic reconstruction technique and standard Tikhonov regularization algorithms. An effective method is provided for temperature field reconstruction by acoustic tomography.
A False Alarm Reduction Method for a Gas Sensor Based Electronic Nose
Authors: Rahman Mohammad , Charoenlarpnopparut Chalie , Suksompong Prapun , Toochinda Pisanu , Taparugssanagorn Attaphongse
Published: September 2017

Electronic noses (E-Noses) are becoming popular for food and fruit quality assessment due to their robustness and repeated usability without fatigue, unlike human experts. An E-Nose equipped with classification algorithms and having open ended classification boundaries such as the k-nearest neighbor (k-NN), support vector machine (SVM), and multilayer perceptron neural network (MLPNN), are found to suffer from false classification errors of irrelevant odor data. To reduce false classification and misclassification errors, and to improve correct rejection performance; algorithms with a hyperspheric boundary, such as a radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) and generalized regression neural network (GRNN) with a Gaussian activation function in the hidden layer should be used. The simulation results presented in this paper show that GRNN has more correct classification efficiency and false alarm reduction capability compared to RBFNN. As the design of a GRNN and RBFNN is complex and expensive due to large numbers of neuron requirements, a simple hyperspheric classification method based on minimum, maximum, and mean (MMM) values of each class of the training dataset was presented. The MMM algorithm was simple and found to be fast and efficient in correctly classifying data of training classes, and correctly rejecting data of extraneous odors, and thereby reduced false alarms.
Analysis of Passenger Incident Data from Five Rail Transit Systems
Authors: Hunter-Zaworski Katharine
Published: September 2017

The study results reported here are part of a larger research project that developed a manual for practitioners to improve safety at rail transit platform/train and platform/guideway interfaces. As part of that effort, passenger injury incident data was collected from five rail transit systems, and interviews were conducted with safety officers at other rail transit systems in the US and Canada. The data collected showed that stairs and escalators and general platform tripping produced more injury incidents than the platform/train and platform/guideway interfaces. Heavy rail transit with platforms that are higher than 24 inches from top of rail had more injury incidents than light rail transit that typically operates on low level platforms. Other causes of injury incidents included intoxication, attempted suicide, and distraction.
The Utility of the Supine-to-Stand Test as a Measure of Functional Motor Competence in Children Aged 5–9 Years
Authors: Duncan Michael , Lawson Chelsey , Walker Leanne , Stodden David , Eyre Emma
Published: September 2017

This study examined how supine-to-stand (STS) performance is related to process and product assessment of motor competence (MC) in children. Ninety-one children aged 5–9 years were assessed for process and product MC (10 m running speed and standing long jump) as well as process and product measures of STS. Tertiles were created for STS process and STS product scores to create 3 groups reflecting low, medium, and high STS competency. ANCOVA analysis, controlling for age, for process STS, indicated that process MC was significantly higher in children, classified as medium STS (p = 0.048) and high STS (p = 0.011) competence, and that 10 m run speed was slower for low STS compared to medium (p = 0.019) and high STS (p = 0.004). For product STS tertiles, process MC was significantly higher for children in the lowest (fastest) STS tertile compared to those in the medium highest (slowest) tertile (p = 0.01).
Immunopathogenesis of HPV-Associated Cancers and Prospects for Immunotherapy
Authors: Smola Sigrun
Published: September 2017

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a causative factor for various cancers of the anogenital region and oropharynx, and is supposed to play an important cofactor role for skin carcinogenesis. Evasion from immunosurveillance favors viral persistence. However, there is evidence that the mere presence of oncogenic HPV is not sufficient for malignant progression and that additional tumor-promoting steps are required. Recent studies have demonstrated that HPV-transformed cells actively promote chronic stromal inflammation and conspire with cells in the local microenvironment to promote carcinogenesis. This review highlights the complex interplay between HPV-infected cells and the local immune microenvironment during oncogenic HPV infection, persistence, and malignant progression, and discusses new prospects for diagnosis and immunotherapy of HPV-associated cancers.
Barriers, facilitators, and survival strategies for GPs seeking treatment for distress: a qualitative study
Authors: Spiers Johanna , Buszewicz Marta , Chew-Graham Carolyn A , Gerada Clare , Kessler David , Leggett Nick , Manning Chris , Taylor Anna Kathryn , Thornton Gail , Riley Ruth
Published: September 2017

Background

GPs are under increasing pressure due to a lack of resources, a diminishing workforce, and rising patient demand. As a result, they may feel stressed, burnt out, anxious, or depressed.

Aim

To establish what might help or hinder GPs experiencing mental distress as they consider seeking help for their symptoms, and to explore potential survival strategies.

Design and setting

The authors recruited 47 GP participants via e-mails to doctors attending a specialist service, adverts to local medical committees (LMCs) nationally and in GP publications, social media, and snowballing. Participants self-identified as either currently living with mental distress, returning to work following treatment, off sick or retired early as a result of mental distress, or without experience of mental distress. Interviews were conducted face to face or over the telephone.

Method

Transcripts were uploaded to NVivo 11 and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Barriers and facilitators were related to work, stigma, and symptoms. Specifically, GPs discussed feeling a need to attend work, the stigma surrounding mental ill health, and issues around time, confidentiality, and privacy. Participants also reported difficulties accessing good-quality treatment. GPs also talked about cutting down or varying work content, or asserting boundaries to protect themselves.

Conclusion

Systemic changes, such as further information about specialist services designed to help GPs, are needed to support individual GPs and protect the profession from further damage.
Motivators and Barriers to Walking in Older Adults With Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Bentley Angela J. , Kelechi Teresa J.
Published: September 2017

The purpose of the current review is to provide, within the context of social cognitive theory, a current description of behavioral, personal, and environmental factors that motivate or prevent an individual with peripheral artery disease (PAD) from participating in activity. A comprehensive review to explore motivators and barriers to walking in older adults with PAD was performed to help guide development of interventions to increase activity. Several databases were used for the literature review, with inclusion criteria being all study designs with samples of older adults with PAD. From the initial yield of 22 abstracts, and additional hand search, eight publications were used for this review. Social cognitive theory provided a context for understanding barriers and motivators to walking experienced by older adults with PAD. Nurses may contribute to walking self-efficacy with support and motivation. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 44
(1), 43–50.]
El impacto de la crisis económica en la pobreza de tiempo y la desigualdad de género
Authors: García Sainz Cristina
Published: September 2017

En el presente artículo se trata la pobreza en relación con el tiempo y el género. En primer lugar, se describen los argumentos que acreditan la situación de pobreza de tiempo y se delimitan los conceptos que la diferencian de otros como el déficit de tiempo o la privación de tiempo. En segundo lugar, se analiza el impacto que las políticas de ajuste estructural están teniendo sobre la dedicación al trabajo no remunerado, por la menguante labor del Estado y por la caída de ingresos en las familias. En tercer lugar, se contempla la situación del mercado laboral en relación con la ampliación de los tiempos de trabajo, así como con la flexibilidad impuesta; se observa cómo los empleos atípicos producen privación de tiempo y restan autonomía sobre el tiempo propio. Por último, se recogen algunas aportaciones que tratan sobre la riqueza y/o la cualidad del tiempo, sus dimensiones y la necesaria articulación de los distintos tiempos sociales.
La participación del público en el coste de la oferta cultural: argumentos éticos para el debate
Authors: Cejudo Córdoba Rafael
Published: September 2017

El artículo revisa los argumentos a favor y en contra de que el público financie directa y voluntariamente la actividad cultural. Se parte de que los mecanismos de financiación elegidos por las políticas culturales tienen una dimensión ética y no solo una finalidad instrumental. Utilizando el enfoque comparativo propuesto por A. Sen, se investiga si el micro-mecenazgo (crowdfunding) y otras formas de inversión por parte de los consumidores culturales constituyen formas de mecenazgo ciudadano valiosas desde un punto de vista ético. A pesar de que las políticas culturales a favor del micro-mecenazgo pueden ser acusadas de paternalistas o de mercantilizar la vida cultural, se defiende que el mecenazgo ciudadano es una innovación social que fomenta la responsabilidad social de los consumidores culturales. En tal sentido las políticas culturales deben tener en cuenta que el comportamiento privado de consumo e inversión también es una forma de participación en la vida social.
Albañiles invisibles. Una aproximación al estudio del patrón de fosas de La Ventilla, Teotihuacan
Authors: Delgado Rubio Jaime
Published: September 2017

Este artículo nació con un deseo, y es hablar de arquitectura de la antigua ciudad de Teotihuacan (México), sin que se omita la labor de los gremios de albañiles que la hicieron posible y cuyas actividades no han figurado dentro de las preocupaciones académicas de los especialistas de esta metrópoli precolombina. Por ello, en el marco de las exploraciones arqueológicas realizadas dentro del barrio teotihuacano de La Ventilla y particularmente del hallazgo de enigmáticos patrones de fosas sobre sus suelos, es que realizamos ejercicios de arqueología experimental con el fin de aproximarnos a algunas operaciones, técnicas y soluciones ingenieriles que cotidianamente realizaban estos albañiles como parte de su subsistencia básica. Un intento por dimensionar la relevancia técnica e importancia social de estos gremios en el universo de la arquitectura antigua.
La puerta meridional del recinto amurallado de la ciudad de León (siglos I-XIII). Análisis estratigráfico e interpretativo de una nueva evidencia constructiva
Authors: Morillo Ángel , Durán Cabello Rosalía
Published: September 2017

En el año 2000 tuvo lugar el descubrimiento de un gran muro de sillería visto, integrado en el sótano de un local comercial en el casco histórico de la ciudad de León. Sus características constructivas, así como su posición topográfica en el parcelario actual, permiten identificarlo como el frente de una de las torres de flanqueo de la puerta meridional (porta praetoria) del campamento de la legio VII gemina, edificada a finales del siglo I-comienzos del siglo II d. C. El paramento presentaba numerosas reformas y adecuaciones, que atestiguan su evolución entre el periodo romano altoimperial y los siglos XII-XIII d. C. El análisis de la estratigrafía mural, que aquí presentamos, ha permitido marcar las cronologías relativas de las diferentes fábricas y actividades constructivas que determinan la evolución diacrónica de todo el conjunto, aclarando aspectos relativos al lienzo sur de la muralla de León. Los datos obtenidos se han puesto en relación con el espacio topográfico tridimensional en que se encuentran, ilustrando sobre la evolución del paisaje urbano.
From pedestrian area to urban project: assets and challenges for the centre of Brussels
Authors: Hubert Michel , Corijn Eric , Neuwels Julie , Hardy Margaux , Vermeulen Sofie , Vaesen Joost
Published: September 2017

The new pedestrian area in the centre of Brussels is one of the most important urban projects of the last decades. In 2015, the central traffic artery, Boulevard Anspach, was pedestrianised. The public space and the biggest metro stations must still be renovated. The implementation of this project and the challenges it faces are inherently complex. Experiences in Belgium and abroad show that the impact on the city centre of Brussels will be significant at different levels: the quality of public space; housing and public services; local economy and employment; mobility, logistics and accessibility; and social and cultural activities. However, recent data and analyses are fragmented, non-existent or inaccessible for all stakeholders involved. Nevertheless, an urban project may only succeed when knowledge and expertise are gathered and shared, and used to support decision-making. Therefore, BSI - Brussels Centre Observatory (BSI-BCO) is monitoring this project closely. Previously published research is further developed in this synopsis [Portfolio#1]. Part 1 discusses the context of the project. Part 2 details the four main challenges based on our first observations. The synopsis concludes with concrete scenarios to improve the overall quality and management of the project.
Performance and Emission Characteristics of Diesel Engine Fuelled with Waste Frying Oil Derived Biodiesel-Petroleum Diesel Blend
Authors: Yusuff Adeyinka Sikiru , Adeniyi Olalekan David , Olutoye Moses Aderemi , Akpan Uduak George
Published: September 2017

Direct use of vegetable oil as a fuel on compression ignition engine has been described as impossible, because of its high viscosity and density. Transesterification process and other methods have been identified as ways of reducing these two properties. The high cost of virgin vegetable oils and its competition for food have made the biodiesel unable to compete with fossil diesel and also hike its cost. In order to solve these menaces, in this study, waste frying oil was used as a feedstock for production of biodiesel via transesterification using anthill-eggshell promoted Ni-Co mixed oxides (NiCoAE) as heterogeneous catalyst. The composite catalyst was prepared via incipient wetness impregnation (IWI) method and thermally treated at 1000 °C for 4 h. The developed catalyst was characterized using FTIR and SEM techniques. The biodiesel produced under the favourable reaction conditions was blended with petroleum diesel in three different proportions (B20, B50 and B80) and were tested on diesel engine to evaluate their performance and emission characteristics. The blended fuel containing 20% by volume biodiesel (B20) emitted lowest percentage of CO and CO2. The result obtained herein indicates that the mixture of biodiesel and petroleum diesel containing 20% biodiesel (B20) emitted less carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO2), thus, indicating best dual fuel combination, which can be used in diesel engines without any adjustment or modification in the engines. This result is in agreement with the findings reported in the literature and Energy Policy Act (EPA) of 1992.
Vulnerability Evaluation from 1995 to 2016 in Central Dry Zone Area of Myanmar
Authors: Boori Mukesh S. , Choudhary Komal , Kupriyanov Alexander
Published: September 2017

The central dry zone area of Myanmar is characterized as vulnerable area due to water stressed and one of the most food insecure regions in the country. In this region, the adverse effects of climate change are believed to be a major constraint to vulnerability. Theses extreme climatic events are likely increase in frequency and magnitude of serious drought periods and extreme floods. For vulnerability assessment we used remote sensing (RS) and geographical information system (GIS) technology and develop a numerical model, using spatial principle component analysis (SPCA) in ArcGIS software and evaluate two decade (1995, 2005 & 2016) vulnerability evaluation. The model contains following indicators: discharge change, climate moisture, drained area, flood risk, irrigation, evapotranspiration, precipitation, surface runoff, nitrogen load and population distribution. According to the numerical results, the vulnerability is classified into five levels: slight, light, medial, heavy and very heavy level by means of the cluster principle. The results show that vulnerability in the study area from 1995 to 2016 is at medial (25%) and heavy (25%) level and presents from south-west to north east direction. The vulnerability change trend show worst situation in 1995 (29.80) and best one in 2005 (17.45) but again vulnerability was increase in 2016 (21.58). In the study area the main driving forces for dynamic change in vulnerability is the intensive land use and high population density. This spatial approach allowed the analysis of different indicators, providing a platform for data integration as well as a visually powerful overview of the study area.
Effects of Various Amounts of Natural Pozzolans from Volcanic Scoria on Performance of Portland Cement Mortars
Authors: Juimo Tchamdjou Willy Hermann , Grigoletto Sophie , Michel Frédéric , Courard Luc , Cherradi Toufik , Abidi Moulay Larbi
Published: September 2017

The aim of this paper is to assess the possibility of using natural pozzolans (NPs) from Cameroonian volcanic scoria as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) in the production of Portland cement mortars. Four natural pozzolans (Black Natural Pozzolan: BNP, Dark-Red Natural Pozzolan: DRNP, Red Natural Pozzolan: RNP and Yellow Natural Pozzolan: YNP) with 3600, 4500, 4700 and 5200 cm2/g Blaine fineness respectively were produced from different colors (Black, Dark red, Red and Yellow) volcanic scoria in a laboratory mill. Natural pozzolans were characterized with regard to particle size distribution, particle shape, electrical conductivity, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The calcium hydroxide consumption by NPs was assessed firstly by electrical conductivity measurements of calcium hydroxide/NPs suspensions with calcium hydroxide excess. Evidence of pozzolanic reactivity of NPs is revealed in hydrated lime pastes, and low reactivity was observed in aqueous suspensions. The effects of 15, 25, and 35 wt.% of NPs as cement substitution on the properties of Portland cement mortars were investigated. Different properties were studied such as setting time, consistency, mechanical strength, pozzolanic activity, absorption by capillarity and resistance to carbonation. The reactivity of NPs was also assessed by means of the mechanical strength development of mortars. The results obtained show that pozzolanic and hydraulic reactions take place in OPC systems. The correlation between mechanical strengths and physical properties of NPs has been established. The study concludes that using DRNP and RNP at 15 wt. % cement replacement can ameliorate globally the performance of mortar. Using all NPs at 35 wt. % has negative effect on the fundamental properties of cementitious mortars.
Anti-Inflammatory Role of Langerhans Cells and Apoptotic Keratinocytes in Ultraviolet-B–Induced Cutaneous Inflammation
Authors: Hatakeyama Mayumi , Fukunaga Atsushi , Washio Ken , Taguchi Kumiko , Oda Yoshiko , Ogura Kanako , Nishigori Chikako
Published: September 2017

UV radiation, particularly UVB, is the major risk factor for the induction of skin cancer, and it induces skin inflammation and immunosuppression. Although reports documented that Langerhans cells (LCs) play various roles in photobiology, little is known about whether they contribute to UVB-induced cutaneous inflammation. Recently, the anti-inflammatory effect of apoptotic cells was noted. This study focuses on the roles of LCs and apoptotic cells in UVB-induced cutaneous inflammation. We show that LCs are essential for resolution of UVB-induced cutaneous inflammation. Administration of quinolyl-valyl-O-methylaspartyl-[2,6-difluophenoxy]-methyl ketone, a broad-spectrum caspase inhibitor with potent antiapoptotic properties, inhibited the formation of UVB-induced apoptotic cells and aggravated UVB-induced cutaneous inflammation in wild-type mice. In contrast, exacerbation of UVB-induced cutaneous inflammation following quinolyl-valyl-O-methylaspartyl-[2,6-difluophenoxy]-methyl ketone administration was not observed in LC-depleted mice. These results suggest that the interaction between LCs and apoptotic cells is critical for resolution of UVB-induced cutaneous inflammation. Interestingly, UVB-induced apoptotic keratinocytes were increased in LC-depleted mice. In addition, we revealed that UVB-induced apoptotic keratinocytes were phagocytosed by LCs ex vivo and that prolongation of UVB-induced cutaneous inflammation following treatment with Cytochalasin D, an inhibitor of phagocytosis, was partially attenuated in LC-depleted mice. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that the interaction between LCs and apoptotic cells, possibly via LC-mediated phagocytosis of apoptotic keratinocytes, has an essential anti-inflammatory role in the resolution of UVB-induced cutaneous inflammation.
The Orphan Nuclear Receptor NR4A3 Is Involved in the Function of Dendritic Cells
Authors: Nagaoka Masanori , Yashiro Takuya , Uchida Yuna , Ando Tomoaki , Hara Mutsuko , Arai Hajime , Ogawa Hideoki , Okumura Ko , Kasakura Kazumi , Nishiyama Chiharu
Published: September 2017

NR4A3/NOR1 belongs to the NR4A subfamily of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily, which is activated in a ligand-independent manner. To examine the role of NR4A3 in gene expression of dendritic cells (DCs), we introduced NR4A3 small interfering RNA (siRNA) into bone marrow–derived DCs and determined the expression levels of mRNA and proteins of cytokines, cell surface molecules, NF-κB signaling–related proteins, and transcription factors. The expression level of NR4A3 was markedly upregulated by TLR-mediated stimulation in DCs. NR4A3 knockdown significantly suppressed LPS, CpG, or poly(I:C)-mediated upregulation of CD80, CD86, IL-10, IL-6, and IL-12. Proliferation and IL-2 production levels of T cells cocultured with NR4A3 knocked-down DCs were significantly lower than that of T cells cocultured with control DCs. Furthermore, the expression of IKKβ, IRF4, and IRF8 was significantly decreased in NR4A3 siRNA-introduced bone marrow–derived DCs. The knockdown experiments using siRNAs for IKKβ, IRF4, and/or IRF8 indicated that LPS-induced upregulation of IL-10 and IL-6 was reduced in IKKβ knocked-down cells, and that the upregulation of IL-12 was suppressed by the knockdown of IRF4 and IRF8. Taken together, these results indicate that NR4A3 is involved in TLR-mediated activation and gene expression of DCs.
1 Corinthians 14:33b–36 in light of women and church leadership in Nigeria
Authors: Ademiluka Solomon O.
Published: September 2017

1 Corinthians 14:33b–36 contains the injunction by Paul that women should not speak in the church. In Nigeria, many of the mainline denominations exclude women from church leadership, basing the doctrine on this passage. This research examines the text with a view to assessing its relevance for women’s participation in church leadership with a focus on contemporary Nigeria. An examination of the history of the Jews reveals that women had a very small role in religious leadership. However, Jesus in his woman-friendly ministry marked a change in the male-dominated social structure. Paul built upon this, having many women as co-preachers; which would contradict a literal interpretation of 1 Corinthians 14:33b–36. However, the text is best understood from the perspective of the Greek term ekklesia. In its popular context, it refers to the assembly of a Greek city-state in which women were not permitted to speak. In similar Christian assemblies, they were permitted on the basis of the Christian brotherhood. Apparently, in the Corinthian church, women were abusing this privilege by disrupting church services, which warranted Paul’s order. This being the case, the crucial issue is the disorderliness being caused by the women, and not their participation. Therefore, in this text it was not the intention of Paul to establish a doctrine disallowing women from participating in church leadership. Hence, for the Nigerian context, the text does not provide a basis for excluding women from church leadership.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This research involves the disciplines of New Testament theology and church history. It examines 1 Corinthians 14:33b–36 with a view to assessing its relevance for women participation in church leadership and anticipates a situation in which all the mainline churches in Nigeria would involve women in church leadership.
A Few Benchmark Test Cases for Higher-Order Euler Solvers
Authors: Pan Liang , Li Jiequan , Xu Kun
Published: September 2017

There have been great efforts on the development of higher-order numerical schemes for compressible Euler equations in recent decades. The traditional test cases proposed thirty years ago mostly target on the strong shock interactions, which may not be adequate enough for evaluating the performance of current higher-order schemes. In order to set up a higher standard for the development of new algorithms, in this paper we present a few benchmark cases with severe and complicated wave structures and interactions, which can be used to clearly distinguish different kinds of higher-order schemes. All tests are selected so that the numerical settings are very simple and any higher order scheme can be straightforwardly applied to these cases. The examples include highly oscillatory solutions and the large density ratio problem in one dimensional case. In two dimensions, the cases include hurricane-like solutions; interactions of planar contact discontinuities with asymptotic large Mach number (the composite of entropy wave and vortex sheets); interaction of planar rarefaction waves with transition from continuous flows to the presence of shocks; and other types of interactions of two-dimensional planar waves. To get good performance on all these cases may push algorithm developer to seek for new methodology in the design of higher-order schemes, and improve the robustness and accuracy of higher-order schemes to a new level of standard. In order to give reference solutions, the fourth-order gas-kinetic scheme (GKS) will be used to all these benchmark cases, even though the GKS solutions may not be very accurate in some cases. The main purpose of this paper is to recommend other CFD researchers to try these cases as well, and promote further development of higher-order schemes.
Adaptive Dimensionality-Reduction for Time-Stepping in Differential and Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Fu Xing , Nathan Kutz J.
Published: September 2017

A numerical time-stepping algorithm for differential or partial differential equations is proposed that adaptively modifies the dimensionality of the underlying modal basis expansion. Specifically, the method takes advantage of any underlying low-dimensional manifolds or subspaces in the system by using dimensionality-reduction techniques, such as the proper orthogonal decomposition, in order to adaptively represent the solution in the optimal basis modes. The method can provide significant computational savings for systems where low-dimensional manifolds are present since the reduction can lower the dimensionality of the underlying high-dimensional system by orders of magnitude. A comparison of the computational efficiency and error for this method are given showing the algorithm to be potentially of great value for high-dimensional dynamical systems simulations, especially where slow-manifold dynamics are known to arise. The method is envisioned to automatically take advantage of any potential computational saving associated with dimensionality-reduction, much as adaptive time-steppers automatically take advantage of large step sizes whenever possible.
Le Conseil Général Vétérinaire. Organisation et missions
Authors: Lefèvre Pierre-Charles , Leseur Régis
Published: September 2017

Le Conseil Général Vétérinaire est une structure de conseil et d’expertise auprès du Ministre de l’Agriculture, de l’alimentation, de la pêche et des affaires rurales chargée de toutes les questions juridiques, administratives ou techniques en relation avec le secteur vétérinaire et notamment le corps des vétérinaires-inspecteurs.

Il est composé de 35 à 40 contrôleurs généraux et est organisé en trois sections spécialisées (Administration générale, Santé publique vétérinaire et environnement, Études et prospectives) et une commission de suivie des carrières.

Dans le cadre du plan de modernisation de l’État, une réforme du corps des vétérinaires-inspecteurs devrait être menée à terme en 2002. Le corps des VI deviendrait alors un corps d’encadrement supérieur de l’État tout en s’ouvrant à des agents ayant d’autres formations initiales (ingénieurs).