bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on the Optimal Safety Level and the Related Mechanism of the Manufacturer Based on the Economics Equilibrium Analysis
Authors: Liu Wei , Liu Chen Yu , Liu Chen Jun
Published: December 2014

Safety management is the basic prerequisite for the normal operation of production, it is the necessary factor to prevent the occurrence of safety accidents and guarantee the worker's mental and physical health as well as production property against losses. By using the basic equilibrium thought of Western Economics, this paper analysis the manufacturer optimal equilibrium safety level and optimal measure, and interpretation of seeking the rationality of the manufacturer's optimal safety level balance. By the market mechanism of Coase theorem, this paper analysis the balance control of the optimal safety level, and expounds the scientific using the basic mechanism to ensure the manufacturer's optimal safety equilibrium.
Analysis of Contaminants Found from Soils in the Abandoned Railroad Sites
Authors: Lim Hee Jun , Yun Sung Mi , Gillan Kim , Kim Han Seung
Published: December 2014

Recently, reconstruction of abandoned railroad stations and railroad beds are increasingly taking place in Korea. Soil remediation is necessary for the eco-friendly development. Soil found in abandoned railroad sites typically contaminated with heavy oils, which are low volatile petroleum products and less decomposable in nature. The objective of this study is to analyze those contaminants and contamination levels of the soils collected from an abandoned railroad bed located in Seoul, Korea. Heavy oils were extracted from contaminated soils using an organic solvent mixture of methanol and dichloromethane (1:2, v/v). Extracted solvent were analyzed qualitatively by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and qualitatively using high performance liquid chromatography. It was found that the abandoned railroad bed soil was mainly contaminated by heavy oils such as bunker C oil, which was confirmed by FT-IR spectra of petroleum oil products such as gasoline, diesel, kerosene, JP-8, bunker C oil, and lubricants. Benzo [a] antracene was found from the contaminated soil and its level was as high as 11.45 mg/kg, and other polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were trivial.
Environmental Monitoring and Analysis on Air Pollution Issue in China
Authors: Zykov Valerii N. , Kurbatova Anna I. , Chernyh Natalia A. , Savkova Natalia N.
Published: December 2014

This article studied about the air pollution in China. The main causes of the air quality deterioration in the country were analyzed as well as possible ways of the environmental situation improvement were suggested.
Spectrophotometry Determination Method of Chlorine Dioxide with Acid Green B
Authors: Wu Ming Song , Xu Xin Yang , Xu Xun , Wang Xue Ting
Published: December 2014

Chlorine dioxide has been used widely in many fields recent years. In order to develop an easy and steady spectrophotometry method to determination Chlorine dioxide, acid green B was used as a fading agent. The effect of wavelength, pH, and reaction time was investigated. The analysis was determined as: wavelength of 606nm, pH 9 ammonia buffer solution, and reaction time of 5min. This spectrophotometry method represents good accuracy and precision in adding standard recovery tests and repeated tests. The detection limit is 0.3mg/L. Because only two agents are used, it is a handy method for analyzing chlorine dioxide in water in the field application.
Improved Retrieval of Reflectivity Factor for Airborne Weather Radar
Authors: Xiang Tian Shun , Li Yong , Wu Di , He Li
Published: December 2014

For the airborne weather radar signal processing, the intensity of the meteorological targets is represented by the physical quantity called reflectivity factor. When observing the middle-or long-range meteorological targets at low altitude from a high-altitude radar platform, due to the incomplete beam filling, the retrieval result of the reflectivity factor is much less than the actual value. In this paper, we firstly introduce a beam filling coefficient into the weather radar equation and then present its estimation method based on the real-time radar operating parameters. The validity of the proposed method is then verified by processing the raw-data of the simulated meteorological targets.
The Influences of Compression Temperature on the Fiber Structure and Tensile Properties of Hemp Reinforced Polypropylene Composites
Authors: Zhang Xiao Hui , Gong Xiao Lu , Montay Guillaume
Published: December 2014

In this work, polypropylene composites reinforced by woven hemp fiber were fabricated using compression molding. The effects of compression temperature, ranging from 160 °C to 200 oC, on the tensile properties of the resulted composites were studied. The tensile tests of neat woven hemp fiber heated under different temperatures (160-280 oC) were also performed. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to observe the fiber surface. The results showed that the tensile properties of the reinforced composites decreased with the increase of compression temperature, but a rise up to 40.31 MPa at 190 oC occurred. The tensile properties of the woven fibers decreased as the temperature increased, even a marked reduction at 220 oC. The SEM presents the fiber surface indicating the degradation of pectin or lignin on the fiber surface.
Soil Nitrogen Forms and Availability in Paddy Soil under Different Fertilization Methods
Authors: Wang Ji , Fu Min Jie , Liang Yun Jiang , Guan Ze Yu , Li Jiu Dao
Published: December 2014

To reveal the characteristics of soil organic nitrogen components under different long-term fertilization methods in paddy fields, 7 typical paddy fields in the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture of Jilin Province were selected, and soil samples were collected from 0 to 10 cm and 10 to 20 cm. The samples were analyzed for available nitrogen, total nitrogen and inorganic nitrogen content and each component of organic nitrogen. The results showed that soil nitrogen decreased with increasing soil depth in the soil profile. Different fertilization methods had a significant or greater effect on the available nitrogen, total nitrogen and organic nitrogen in 0 to 10 cm soil, and it had a significant effect on the total nitrogen content in 10 to 20 cm soil. Combined applications of organic and inorganic fertilizer was beneficial for improving available soil nitrogen. Applying organic fertilizer was beneficial for the accumulation of total nitrogen and organic nitrogen. Organic nitrogen was a major part of soil nitrogen. In terms of directly affecting the path analysis, the effects of ammonia sugar nitrogen, acid-hydrolyzable unknown nitrogen and non-hydrolyzable nitrogen on available nitrogen are significant. A small negative correlation was shown between amino acid nitrogen and available nitrogen. Amino acid nitrogen indirectly affected the available nitrogen through other components. In terms of the general effect of the path analysis, the influence of non-hydrolyzable nitrogen to available nitrogen was the highest. An important factor to consider in relation to reasonable fertilization is that promoting non-hydrolyzable nitrogen and unknown acid-hydrolyzable nitrogen transformed into available nitrogen and accumulated available nitrogen.
The Rapid Detecting Technology on Heavy Metal Pollution in Soil
Authors: Lin Hai , Kang Jian Cheng
Published: December 2014

This paper summarizes the system composition and development process of Portable X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (PXRF). It also reviews the research status of PXRF in the detection of heavy metal in soils and its accuracy validating and influencing factors. The direction of future development of the technology was discussed.
Research Progresses in Soil Phytoremediation Polluted by Cadmium
Authors: Zhou Li Ming , Chen Jun Xiang , Zhou Jian Mei , Guo Hui , Liu Bo
Published: December 2014

Phytoremediation is the use of plants for the removal of pollutants from contaminated soil. Phytoremediation is an environmentally friendly and cost effective alternative to current remediation technologies. This review outlines general aspects of phytoremediation. It further reviews various phytoremediation processes in detail: phytoextraction, rhizofiltration, phytostabilization, rhizosphere degradation, and phytovolatilization. The hyperaccumulators of cadium and advances in the phytoextraction, phytostabilization, transgenic plants, agricultural technologies for soil phytoremediation by cadium were reviewed.
Effects of Chinese Medicine Residue Vermicompost Application on Pakchoi Yield and Nutrient Content
Authors: Wang Yu Wei , Yang Dong Wei , Duan Yi Hang , Yang Li Juan , Wang Yao Jing
Published: December 2014

In this study, we conducted a series of pot experiments to examine the effect of Chinese medicine residue vermicompost on yield and nutrient content of pakchoi. Vermicompost was proved to be effective in increasing yield and nutrient uptake by the results. The study showed that half vermicompost and half fertilizer works best, 9.86% higher than single fertilizer, with NPK content increased by 3.85%, 7.69% and 11.48%. In addition, the application of vermicompost improved the chlorophyll content of pakchoi. The study indicated that vermicompost, as an environment-friendly fertilizer, has great potential to assure the sustainable development of agriculture.
Application of Dry Fog Dust Suppression Technology in the Coal Conveyer Belt System of Thermal Power Plants
Authors: Zhang Yun Fei
Published: December 2014

In order to solve the problem of serious dust and difficult to control in coal conveyer belt without tissue in a thermal power plant of Shanxi, this paper introduces the principle of dry fog dust suppression technology, apparatus components, advantages and disadvantages and the application in a thermal power plant. Determination of dust concentration when the dry fog dust suppression work or does not work. Data show that the rate of dry fog dust suppression is generally greater than 80%, the dust concentration is less than 10 mg/m3, especially the suppression effect on small particles of less than 10 μm dust is obvious. Practice shows that dust has been effectively suppressed and it has a good application prospect, when this technology and device are applied.
Control Strategies of Low DO in Step-Feed Anoxic/Oxic Process Treating Domestic Wastewater for Filamentous Bulking Inhibition
Authors: Wang Wei , Chen Qiang , Liu Li Na , Zhang Xin , Shao Chun Hong
Published: December 2014

Activated sludge systems operate at low DO concentration can save aeration energy and enhance the treatment performance. To explore the effect of DO control strategies on the settleability of activated sludge, different DO control strategies were carried out in a step-feed anoxic/oxic reactor treating domestic wastewater. The result shows that low DO concentration is not the single reason to filamentous bulking. To achieve long-term system stabilization and avoid serious filamentous bulking, feedforward-feedback DO control strategy may be a feasible and good choice.
Experimental Study on Photocatalytic Mercury Removal by Titanium Dioxide
Authors: Li Xian , Wu Jiang , Qi Xue Mei , Li Chao En , Zhang Chong , Zhao Xu Ying , Yang Lin Yan
Published: December 2014

TiO2 hollow sphere was synthesized by hydrothermal method using Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) and Ti (SO4)2 as raw materials. The photocatalytic properties of TiO2 hollow sphere were evaluated by the photocatalytic oxidization of elemental mercury (Hg0) in simulated flue gas. The as-prepared samples were well characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and nitrogen sorption/desorption. The results show that only anatase phase for TiO2 the hollow sphere is obtained. The average diameter is about 800nm and the shell thickness was about 200nm. The sample prepared with TFA has better photocatalytic properties than P25.
Modeling Perchloroethylene Reduction in Zero-Valent Metal System Using Mathematical Method
Authors: Ma Chang Wen , Xian Qi Ming , Xie Hong Yong , Guan Jie , Sun Zhi Guo
Published: December 2014

The dechlorination of perchloroethylene (PCE) in aqueous solution is significant for the decontamination of water. Previous study based on batch tests was conducted on the degradation of PCE using zero-valent metal. The degradation reaction fit well with pseudo-first-order kinetic model. In this study a hypothesized reaction sequence for reduction of chlorinated ethylene and related compounds was presented to describe the reticulation degradation pathway of PCE. Mathematical model was developed to predict the subsequent degradation of PCE and intermediates; results showed that 170 days were needed to transform all of PCE to non-chlorinated hydrocarbons in degradation reactors contained zero-valent iron, while 240 days were needed for zero-valent zinc. The variation of each species probably occurred in degradation process were also predicted, and the intermediates showed the same variation tendency of increasing in the first stage, reaching to peak value, and then decreasing in later period.
Study on Pretreatment of Azithromycin Wastewater Technology
Authors: Wang Li Dong , Dong Ya Rong
Published: December 2014

Azithromycin wastewater has high ammonia, high COD and high salt content characteristics. By ammonia stripping-Fenton oxidation pretreatment of azithromycin wastewater, the effect is obvious. The optimum technological conditions are determined by experiments, the effluent COD can be reduced to 5000mg/L or less, the total removal of up to 85.6%. After pretreatment of wastewater, the BOD5/COD value was increased from 0.12 to 0.38, and the biodegradability of the wastewater was improved.
Improving Purification Filter Characteristics of Fine Dust Particles Based on Aramid 1313 Denier Technology
Authors: He Jian Liang , Shen Heng Gen , Bi Jing Zhong , Xin Hong Jiang
Published: December 2014

In order to improve the effect of meta-aramid on filtering fine dust particles such as PM2.5, the fineness of the fine denier meta-aramid was discretized, and new differential fiber was obtained. According to the results, this filter medium was superior to conventional 2.2 dtex samples in terms of classified filtration and caused a more significant effect on collecting fine dust particles; the initial resistance remained unchanged roughly; and the air permeability could reach 279 L/(m2•s), demonstrating that this filter medium has a great advantage in filtration efficiency as well as energy conservation and emission reduction.
Spatial Distribution Characteristics and Hourly Forecast of PM2.5 Pollution in Summer in Beijing
Authors: Wang Li Sha , Li Jie , Zhang Li Na , Chen Yuan Hua , Liu Yu , Chen Yu Ping
Published: December 2014

The fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has become the primary pollutant of atmospheric environment of Beijing now, therefore to know the spatial distribution characteristics and to make accurate and refined forecast of PM2.5 is very important. In this study, the spatial distribution characteristics of PM2.5 concentration in summer in Beijing was derived by using Kriging interpolation method based on the data from 30 air quality monitoring stations all over Beijing during June, July and August 2014. In general, the PM2.5 pollution is higher in the south and east, and is lower in the north and west, but when there is south or southeast wind blowing, the situation could be totally the opposite. Based on the hourly PM2.5 concentration data from one representative air quality monitoring station and the meteorological data from a nearby meteorological station during June, July and August 2014, the hourly PM2.5 concentration was forecasted up to 168 hours ahead by using BP (Error-back propagation) and RBF (Radial basis function) neural network methods. The results show RBF neural network method is more efficient, the curve trends of the forecasted values are similar with the curve trends of the monitored values and the forecasted values have significant linear relationship with the monitored values, which demonstrates the possibility of hourly forecast for PM2.5 pollution.
The Influence Factors on Alkalization-Ceramic Flat Membranes Combination Crafts in Manganese Removal
Authors: Zhang Ji Ku , Ming Yue , Zhang Chen
Published: December 2014

The influence factors on alkalization-ceramic flat membranes combination craft in manganese removal are studied in this experiment. The results show that pH value has a great influence on the treatment effect of this method, and the best effect is when the PH value is 7.70 in the conditions of alkaline. But the influent flow and dissolved oxygen (DO) value have little influence. Overcome economic considerations,the best influent flow is between the 9 ~ 12ml/min and DO at 2.3mg / L is optimal.
Adjustment Analysis of AIG Spray Ammonia Denitration System Optimization in Coal-Fired Power Plant
Authors: Zhang Xue Ying , Dong Xue Feng
Published: December 2014

Aiming at power plants denitrification system existing chimney entrance NOx concentration than denitrification system outlet NOx concentration of "upside down" phenomenon, adjust and optimize the test denitrification system, denitrification system NOx concentration distribution uniformity can be obviously improved after the adjustment, improve economy of denitration system operation. At the same time, the denitrification system operation suggestion.
Adaptation of Rice Husk Ash for Use as Pozzolanic Material
Authors: Kieling G. Amanda , Moraes A.M. Carlos , Brehm A. Feliciane , Calheiro Daiane , Kulakowski P. Marlova
Published: December 2014

The use of waste in the construction industry is an interesting approach to minimize associated environmental impacts. A substantial body of research has proved the potential use of rice husk ash (RHA) as a mineral additive. A considerable portion of RHA presents pozzolanic characteristics, a result of its amorphous chemical structure and high silica contents. However, variations in particle size and chemical composition may affect applicability, limiting the use of RHA. In this scenario, this study presents a methodology to recycle RHA based on particle segregation and discusses how the process affects RHA performance in terms of its pozzolanic activity. Samples and respective segregated fractions were characterized using physical (loss on ignition, specific weight, surface area, grain size distribution), chemical (chemical composition and X-ray diffraction) and microstructural (scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersion) parameters. Pozzolanic activity was determined after milling of samples and segregation of fractions based on specific assays with cement and on electric conductivity. The results show that segregation opens new perspectives to increase the value of RHA in the construction industry.
Carbonation Front Progress in Mortars Containing Fly Ash Considering the Presence of Chloride Ions
Authors: Malheiro Raphaele , Camões Aires , Ferreira Rui Miguel , Meira Gibson , Amorim Teresa , Rei Ruis
Published: December 2014

The incorporation of fly ash (FA) in cementitious matrices have been frequently used in order to make the matrix more resistant to the action of chlorides. On the other hand, it is known that Ca (OH)2 existing in the matrix is partially consumed by the pozzolanic reactions, which facilitates the advancement of carbonation. Given that the combined action between carbonation and chloride penetration is a fact little known, we speculate about the behaviour of the matrix in this context. This study investigates the influence of the presence of chlorides on the carbonation in mortars with FA. Samples with 0% and 40% replacement of cement CEM I 42.5 R for FA were molded with water/binder 0.56 and 0.52 respectively. After 90 days of curing the specimens were subjected to cycles of immersion/drying for 56 days. Half of the samples was subjected to the following cycle: two days in a solution containing NaCl (concentration equal to 3.5 %); 12 days in the carbonation chamber (4% of CO2). The other half was: two days in water; 12 days in the carbonation chamber. Then, the development of carbonation was evaluated. The results indicate that the presence of chlorides influences the carbonation. The specimens submitted to the exclusive action of CO2 showed a greater depth of carbonation compared to that presented by the specimens subjected to combined action. This may be related to changes in properties of the matrix which may lead to further refinement of the pores and related to the presence of the salt that can lead to partial filling of the pores and the increase in moisture content .
Mortar Effect of Rice Husk Ash Burning on Fluidized Flow and Sliding Grid
Authors: Righ Débora P. , Nakanishi Elizabete Y.B. , Kirchhof Larissa D. , Mohamad Gihad , Garcez Mônica R.
Published: December 2014

The rice in the south of Brazil is one of the main economy activities, which produce a large volume of waste coming from the beneficiation industries. The main goal of this research is evaluate the feasibility of use of rice husk ash, burning on fluidized flow (FF) and sliding grid (SG) for mortars. The characterization methods of rice husk ash (RHA) included loss on ignition, particle size distribution by laser, x-ray diffraction, x-ray fluorescence spectrometer, pozzolanic activity index and specific mass. Mortar specimens were molded with the proportion of 1:3 in mass and water/binder ratio of 0.51. The Portland cement was replaced by RHA with the proportion of 10%, 15% and 20%. Compressive strength, water absorption, air voids content, hydration-releasing heat curves, mercury intrusion porosimetry and scanning electron microscope were performed for all mortars. The mechanical performance of mortar with RHA replacement, shows to be satisfactory and feasible alternative for the final waste disposal.
Recommendations for the Construction with Adobe Brick Based on Norm NTE E.080:2000 from Peru and the Technique Currently Used in the State of Bahia - Brazil
Authors: Romero Maria Campos , César Sandro Fábio , Cunha Rita Dione Araújo
Published: December 2014

The search for solutions that might promote the environmental preservation is a great challenge to be faced because of the increasingly depletion of natural resources that are used by society. To use more sustainable building material can be a way of reducing environmental damages and the generation of waste. Builds using earth have characteristics of sustainability and they are recommended in places where there is, already, the tradition of the use of this technique, once this is an abundant and propitious resource for edification. The adobe brick can contribute for a sustainable development in the civil construction if made of raw clay and if used in a large scale basis. In this article, there are presented recommendations for building that uses adobe brick, based on the Norm NTE E.080:2000 – Adobe from Peru and based on the building techniques that are adopted by constructors that use this material in the State of Bahia – Brazil At first we analyze the constructive processes that have been adopted by constructors from Bahia comparing to what Peruvian Norm professes and what can be found in the bibliography about this subject. In the end recommendations are made for the building of adobe brick in order to guarantee the effective protection and conservation of the brickwork made with this material and that provides safety and durability of edifications.
Ancient Materials and Techniques to Improve the Earthen Building Durability
Authors: Eires Rute , Camões Aires , Jalali Said
Published: December 2014

A substantial part of the world building heritage has been performed by earthen building. The durability of this existing heritage and mainly of the new buildings built with earth is particularly conditioned by the erosion caused by water action, especially in countries with high levels of rainfall. This research aims to contribute to the increase of knowledge about the ancient building techniques that provide enhanced durability. It is possible to analyse the ancestral practices used to protect the earth material from the water action in order to understand how the old earthen buildings were preserved over the centuries, resisting to harsh weather conditions. Among these techniques are: the incorporation of biopolymers (such as oils or fats from animal or vegetable origin); the addition of some minerals; and the earth stabilization with lime. However, this knowledge seems to be forgotten, probably due to the prejudice related to earthen constructions, which several times are associated with a poor building. This research also focuses on the study of new methods of earth stabilization with lime and biopolymers, adapting the ancient knowledge to improve the durability related to the water action. Therefore, alternative solutions can be obtained to improve the performance of earthen buildings, mainly the resistance of the material in the presence of water, reducing its permeability to water. In addition, with the proposed solutions it is possible to obtain good levels of water vapour permeability, one of the major advantages of the construction with earth.
Use of Waste Materials in the Production of Concrete
Authors: Brito Jorge , Silva Rui
Published: December 2014

The world’s demand for construction aggregates has been increasing over the last years, mainly due to the rapid economic growth of countries such as Brazil, China and India. Naturally, this growth stimulates the development of construction and demolition activities, thereby generating increasing amounts of waste. This paper presents a state-of-the-art review of the experimental research on the effect of incorporating aggregates of different types and shapes, sourced from construction and demolition waste. This review also covers studies on the incorporation of waste materials coming from industrial activities, emphasising those performed in the Instituto Superior Técnico, of the University of Lisbon, Portugal.
Analysis of Crack in Kaplan Turbine Blade
Authors: Šmátralová Magdalena , Kosňovská Jana , Rožnovská Gabriela
Published: December 2014

The paper deals with the analysis of the crack detected in the Kaplan turbine blade. In order to keep the blade integrity the sample was removed by using small sample method. Fractographic and metallographic analyses were used to determine the cause of a detected crack appearance and propagation. The material of the turbine blade was made in 1937 and its structure containing numerous eutectic sulphide inclusions corresponded to the steelmaking technology of that time. Numerous occurrences of sulphide inclusions and sulphide eutectics were identified as the main cause of material failure. Regardless of these non-metallic inclusions the blade was repaired by welding and nowadays the repaired blade has been under safe operation for more than 9 years.
Flexural Properties of FDM Prototypes Made with Honeycomb and Sparse Structure
Authors: Gajdoš Ivan , Kaščák Ľuboš , Spišák Emil , Slota Ján
Published: December 2014

The rapid prototyping (RP) process is capable of building parts of any complicated geometry in least possible time without incurring extra cost due of absence of tooling. Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is a fast growing RP technology due to its ability to build functional parts having complex geometrical shape in reasonable time period. The quality of built parts depends on many process variables. The presented study focus on assessment of mechanical property flexural strength of part fabricated using fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology. The 3-point bending test was used, to determine flexural strength. Samples were made of polycarbonate on Fortus 400 mc machine from polycarbonate with slice height 0.127mm. The experiment was focused on influence of air-gap size between fibers and number of outline contours on selected mechanical properties of FDM prototypes determined 3-point bending test. The results show possibility to obtain weight reduction in printed parts with sparse structure with sufficient flexural strength and with reduced build time, compared to structure printed with default machine setting,. To obtain optimal processing parameters for 3D printing prototypes, it is necessary to execute further experiments, which could verify gathered results.
Selected Properties of Composites with Polypropylene after Ageing
Authors: Krzyzak Aneta , Łagožna Magdalena , Nogaj Andżelika , Dulebova Ľudmila
Published: December 2014

Changes in selected physical properties of thermoplastic composites during and after exposure materials to ultraviolet radiation and freeze were investigated. The matrix of composite was homopolymer polypropylene. The fillers were talcum, chalk, short glass fiber in mass fraction 10 to 50% and montmorillonite by fraction only 4%. The composites were mixed in plasticizing system of extruder. The length of plasticizing system and number of grooves in feed zone was changed. The samples were exposed for two months to UV and -20°C. The short ageing influenced on hardness, microhardness and Raman spectroscopy of composites. The SEM showed how extrusion process affected the homogeneity of composites structure.
Structure and Properties of Selected Natural Materials
Authors: Zubko Pavol , Zahornacký Ivan , Kroisová Dora , Vojtko Marek , Pešek Ladislav
Published: December 2014

This paper deals with description of properties of selected natural materials mainly theirs shelter function. The investigated materials are horsetail and walnut shell. Both natural materials have porous shell/tubular structure. Walnut shell provides natural shield cover for fruit with gradient distribution of porosity and membrane function. In case of horse tail, except the gradient distribution of porosity there is also the gradient change of chemical composition along the cross-section.
The Methodic of Testing Using Experimental Equipment
Authors: Kubelka Martin , Pačák Tomáš , Tatíček František
Published: December 2014

During pressing using high speed, the material is stressed to the limit of its mechanical properties. And this generates problems during production. For this reason, opens debate on the factors previously neglected, such as the strain rate. For determining the effect of strain rate on the pressing process has been designed to CTU, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Manufacturing Technology, equipment for monitoring the behaviour of the material at different strain rates. The article describes the creation of testing methodologies material behaviour using this device.
Antigen Recognition in the Islets Changes with Progression of Autoimmune Islet Infiltration
Authors: Lindsay Robin S. , Corbin Kaitlin , Mahne Ashley , Levitt Bonnie E. , Gebert Matthew J. , Wigton Eric J. , Bradley Brenda J. , Haskins Kathryn , Jacobelli Jordan , Tang Qizhi , Krummel Matthew F. , Friedman Rachel S.
Published: December 2014

In type 1 diabetes, the pancreatic islets are an important site for therapeutic intervention because immune infiltration of the islets is well established at diagnosis. Therefore, understanding the events that underlie the continued progression of the autoimmune response and islet destruction is critical. Islet infiltration and destruction is an asynchronous process, making it important to analyze the disease process on a single islet basis. To understand how T cell stimulation evolves through the process of islet infiltration, we analyzed the dynamics of T cell movement and interactions within individual islets of spontaneously autoimmune NOD mice. Using both intravital and explanted two-photon islet imaging, we defined a correlation between increased islet infiltration and increased T cell motility. Early T cell arrest was Ag dependent and due, at least in part, to Ag recognition through sustained interactions with CD11c+ APCs. As islet infiltration progressed, T cell motility became Ag independent, with a loss of T cell arrest and sustained interactions with CD11c+ APCs. These studies suggest that the autoimmune T cell response in the islets may be temporarily dampened during the course of islet infiltration and disease progression.
Direct and Indirect Effects of Immune and Central Nervous System–Resident Cells on Human Oligodendrocyte Progenitor Cell Differentiation
Authors: Moore Craig S. , Cui Qiao-Ling , Warsi Nebras M. , Durafourt Bryce A. , Zorko Nika , Owen David R. , Antel Jack P. , Bar-Or Amit
Published: December 2014

In multiple sclerosis, successful remyelination within the injured CNS is largely dependent on the survival and differentiation of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells. During inflammatory injury, oligodendrocytes and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells within lesion sites are exposed to secreted products derived from both infiltrating immune cell subsets and CNS-resident cells. Such products may be considered either proinflammatory or anti-inflammatory and have the potential to contribute to both injury and repair processes. Within the CNS, astrocytes also contribute significantly to oligodendrocyte biology during development and following inflammatory injury. The overall objective of the current study was to determine how functionally distinct proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory human immune cell subsets, implicated in multiple sclerosis, can directly and/or indirectly (via astrocytes) impact human oligodendrocyte progenitor cell survival and differentiation. Proinflammatory T cell (Th1/Th17) and M1-polarized myeloid cell supernatants had a direct cytotoxic effect on human A2B5+ neural progenitors, resulting in decreased O4+ and GalC+ oligodendrocyte lineage cells. Astrocyte-conditioned media collected from astrocytes pre-exposed to the same proinflammatory supernatants also resulted in decreased oligodendrocyte progenitor cell differentiation without an apparent increase in cell death and was mediated through astrocyte-derived CXCL10, yet this decrease in differentiation was not observed in the more differentiated oligodendrocytes. Th2 and M2 macrophage or microglia supernatants had neither a direct nor an indirect impact on oligodendrocyte progenitor cell differentiation. We conclude that proinflammatory immune cell responses can directly and indirectly (through astrocytes) impact the fate of immature oligodendrocyte-lineage cells, with oligodendrocyte progenitor cells more vulnerable to injury compared with mature oligodendrocytes.
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Cells Express CD38 in Response to Th1 Cell–Derived IFN-γ by a T-bet–Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Bürgler Simone , Gimeno Aleix , Parente-Ribes Anna , Wang Dong , Os Audun , Devereux Stephen , Jebsen Peter , Bogen Bjarne , Tjønnfjord Geir E. , Munthe Ludvig A.
Published: December 2014

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a B cell malignancy associated with increased levels of inflammatory cytokines. Similarly, expression of CD38 on CLL cells correlates with CLL cell survival and proliferation, but the mechanisms that regulate CD38 expression and inflammatory cytokines remain unclear. We have recently demonstrated that patients have CLL-specific Th cells that support CLL proliferation. In this article, we show that CLL cells attract such Th cells, thereby establishing an Ag-dependent collaboration. Blocking experiments performed in vitro as wells as in vivo, using a xenograft model, revealed that secretion of IFN-γ was a major mechanism by which CLL-specific Th cells increased CD38 on CLL cells. The expression of the transcription factor T-bet in peripheral blood CLL cells significantly correlated with CD38 expression, and transient transfection of CLL cells with T-bet resulted in T-bethiCD38hi cells. Finally, chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments revealed that T-bet can bind to regulatory regions of the CD38 gene. These data suggest that CLL cells attract CLL-specific Th cells and initiate a positive feedback loop with upregulation of T-bet, CD38, and type 1 chemokines allowing further recruitment of Th cells and increased type 1 cytokine secretion. This insight provides a cellular and molecular mechanism that links the inflammatory signature observed in CLL pathogenesis with CD38 expression and aggressive disease and suggests that targeting the IFN-γ/IFN-γR/JAK/STAT/T-bet/CD38 pathway could play a role in the therapy of CLL.
Cutting Edge: IL-1α Is a Crucial Danger Signal Triggering Acute Myocardial Inflammation during Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Lugrin Jérôme , Parapanov Roumen , Rosenblatt-Velin Nathalie , Rignault-Clerc Stéphanie , Feihl François , Waeber Bernard , Müller Olivier , Vergely Catherine , Zeller Marianne , Tardivel Aubry , Schneider Pascal , Pacher Pal , Liaudet Lucas
Published: December 2014

Myocardial infarction (MI) induces a sterile inflammatory response that contributes to adverse cardiac remodeling. The initiating mechanisms of this response remain incompletely defined. We found that necrotic cardiomyocytes released a heat-labile proinflammatory signal activating MAPKs and NF-κB in cardiac fibroblasts, with secondary production of cytokines. This response was abolished in Myd88−/− fibroblasts but was unaffected in nlrp3-deficient fibroblasts. Despite MyD88 dependency, the response was TLR independent, as explored in TLR reporter cells, pointing to a contribution of the IL-1 pathway. Indeed, necrotic cardiomyocytes released IL-1α, but not IL-1β, and the immune activation of cardiac fibroblasts was abrogated by an IL-1R antagonist and an IL-1α–blocking Ab. Moreover, immune responses triggered by necrotic Il1a−/− cardiomyocytes were markedly reduced. In vivo, mice exposed to MI released IL-1α in the plasma, and postischemic inflammation was attenuated in Il1a−/− mice. Thus, our findings identify IL-1α as a crucial early danger signal triggering post-MI inflammation.
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: A Paradigm of Innate Immune Cross-Tolerance
Authors: Jurado-Camino Teresa , Córdoba Raúl , Esteban-Burgos Laura , Hernández-Jiménez Enrique , Toledano Victor , Hernandez-Rivas Jose-Angel , Ruiz-Sainz Elena , Cobo Teresa , Siliceo María , Perez de Diego Rebeca , Belda Cristobal , Cubillos-Zapata Carolina , López-Collazo Eduardo
Published: December 2014

Infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). The pathogenesis of infections is multifactorial and includes hypogammaglobulinemia, conventional therapy with alkylating drugs, and recently, purine analogs and mAb-associated T cells. Patients without these risk factors also suffer from infections, although the mechanism remains unknown. In a cohort of 70 patients with CLL, we demonstrated that their monocytes were locked into a refractory state and were unable to mount a classic inflammatory response to pathogens. In addition, they exhibited the primary features of endotoxin tolerance, including low cytokine production, high phagocytic activity, and impaired Ag presentation. The involvement of miR-146a in this phenomenon was suspected. We found miR-146a target genes, such as IRAK1 and TRAF6, were manifestly downregulated. Our study provides a new explanation for infections in patients with CLL and describes a cross-tolerance between endotoxins and tumors.
High prevalence of clustered tuberculosis cases in Peruvian migrants in Florence, Italy
Authors: Zammarchi Lorenzo , Tortoli Enrico , Borroni Emanuele , Bartalesi Filippo , Strohmeyer Marianne , Baretti Simonetta , Simonetti Maria Tullia , Liendo Carola , Santini Maria Grazia , Rossolini Gian Maria , Gotuzzo Eduardo , Bartoloni Alessandro
Published: December 2014

Tuberculosis is a leading cause of morbidity for Peruvian migrants in Florence, Italy, where they account for about 20% of yearly diagnosed cases. A retrospective study on cases notified in Peruvian residents in Florence in the period 2001-2010 was carried out and available Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains were genotyped (MIRU-VNTR-24 and Spoligotyping). One hundred thirty eight cases were retrieved. Genotyping performed in 87 strains revealed that 39 (44.8%) belonged to 12 clusters. Assuming that in each cluster the transmission of tuberculosis from the index case took place in Florence, a large proportion of cases could be preventable by improving early diagnosis of contagious cases and contact tracing.
Ground deformation due to steam-assisted gravity drainage and cyclic steam stimulation observed by RADARSAT-2 in Alberta's oil sands
Authors: Samsonov S V , Czarnogorska M
Published: December 2014

Ground deformation in Alberta's oil sand in Canada was observed with RADARSAT-2 Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (DInSAR). Canadian RADARSAT-2 satellite is capable of acquiring SAR data with 24 day repeat cycle with beams of various
resolution, coverage and polarization. In this work we used data from various RADARSAT-2 beams acquired over the Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) and the Cyclic Steam Simulation (CSS) enhanced oil recovery mining sites. We employed the Small Baseline Subset (SBAS) technique for measuring
linear deformation rates and time series of deformation when coherence of individual interferograms was favorable. In case of very fast deformation observed at some sites the accurate phase unwrapping for a large number of interferograms was impossible so for these sites we computed individual
interferograms only. Presented here results demonstrate that CSS enhanced oil recovery method produces significantly larger ground deformation than SAGD method.
New insights into fast ground subsidence in southern Saskatchewan from modeling of RADARSAT-2 DInSAR measurements
Authors: Samsonov S V , González P J , Tiampo K F , d'Oreye N , Czarnogorska M
Published: December 2014

With Radarsat-2 Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (DInSAR) we observed a fast (approximately -10 cm/year) ground subsidence in southern Saskatchewan, affecting some limited areas located between Rice Lake and the city of Saskatoon. The
deformation maps were calculated using 2008-2013 RADARSAT-2 SAR data from two different beams: Multi-Looked Fine and Standard. We performed standard InSAR analysis and reconstructed two dimensional, east-west and vertical time series of ground deformation with the Multidimensional Small Baseline
subset (MSBAS) method (Samsonov and d'Oreye, 2012). Analysis of the MF3F and S3 time series revealed that the subsidence rate is nearly constant during the entire observation period, which suggests that it is not related to groundwater withdrawal that should have been affected by seasonal
variations. We further selected highly coherent ascending and descending interferograms spanning November 2011 - April 2011 for simple elastic modelling. The inversion solves for several parameters, including source depth, precise location and volume change rate. Two regions of subsidence with
nearly circular shapes were analyzed. The elastic modelling of the observed deformation is consistent with volume changes of spherical and/or sill-like sources at source depths ranging from 600 to 1500 m. We also investigated the impact of this subsidence on the redistribution of surface water
levels and its impact on farming.
RADARSAT-2 for mapping natural hazard events: case studies from around the world
Authors: Samsonov S V , González P J , Tiampo K F , Czarnogorska M
Published: December 2014

Natural hazard events such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions can be successfully studied with the Synthetic Aperture Radar (S AR) that is capable of mapping sub-centimetre ground deformation over large areas using Interferometric SAR (InSAR) processing
methodology. After the Japanese ALOS and European ENVISAT satellites completed their operation in 2 011 and 2 012 respectively , the only SAR sensors left in operation were the X- b and German TerraSAR-X, Italian Cosmo-SKYMED and C- band Canadian RADARSAT-2. In this poster we present a number of
case studies were RADARSAT-2 has proven to be the sensor with the best archived coverage and characteristics, including excellent spatial and temporal resolution and a wavelength that is superior for land observations. Using RADARSAT-2, we successfully mapped a number of large earthquakes in Canada,
Central America, Iran, Italy, and Russia, and volcanic deformation in Chile, Hawaii, Italy, and Spain. Here we will present deformation maps for some of the natural hazard events that were studied and provide suggestions for future missions.
Tropical deep convective life cycle: Cb-anvil cloud microphysics from high-altitude aircraft observations
Authors: Frey W. , Borrmann S. , Fierli F. , Weigel R. , Mitev V. , Matthey R. , Ravegnani F. , Sitnikov N. M. , Ulanovsky A. , Cairo F.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. The case study presented here focuses on the life cycle of clouds in the anvil region of a tropical deep convective system. During the SCOUT-O3 campaign from Darwin, Northern Australia, the Hector storm system has been probed by the Geophysica high-altitude aircraft. Clouds were observed by in situ particle probes, a backscatter sonde, and a miniature lidar. Additionally, aerosol number concentrations have been measured. On 30 November 2005 a double flight took place and Hector was probed throughout its life cycle in its developing, mature, and dissipating stage. The two flights were four hours apart and focused on the anvil region of Hector in altitudes between 10.5 and 18.8 km (i.e. above 350 K potential temperature). Trajectory calculations, satellite imagery, and ozone measurements have been used to ensure that the same cloud air masses have been probed in both flights. The size distributions derived from the measurements show a change not only with increasing altitude but also with the evolution of Hector. Clearly different cloud to aerosol particle ratios as well as varying ice crystal morphology have been found for the different development stages of Hector, indicating different freezing mechanisms. The development phase exhibits the smallest ice particles (up to 300 μm) with a rather uniform morphology. This is indicative for rapid glaciation during Hector's development. Sizes of ice crystals are largest in the mature stage (larger than 1.6 mm) and even exceed those of some continental tropical deep convective clouds, also in their number concentrations. The backscatter properties and particle images show a change in ice crystal shape from the developing phase to rimed and aggregated particles in the mature and dissipating stages; the specific shape of particles in the developing phase cannot be distinguished from the measurements. Although optically thin, the clouds in the dissipating stage have a large vertical extent (roughly 6 km) and persist for at least 6 h. Thus, the anvils of these high-reaching deep convective clouds have a high potential for affecting the tropical tropopause layer by modifying the humidity and radiative budget, as well as for providing favourable conditions for subvisible cirrus formation. The involved processes may also influence the amount of water vapour that ultimately reaches the stratosphere in the tropics.