bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GC-Recomposition-Olfactometry (GC-R) and multivariate study of three terpenoid compounds in the aroma profile of Angostura bitters
Authors: Johnson Arielle J. , Hjelmeland Anna K. , Heymann Hildegarde , Ebeler Susan E.
Published: May 2019

Foods and beverage aroma results from multicomponent mixtures of volatile compounds present in the food that interact with olfactory receptors and produce a perceptual response in the brain. However, the perceptual interactions that occur when complex odor mixtures are combined are not well understood. Here we used Gas chromatography-Recomposition-Olfactometry (GC-R) to better understand the role that individual compounds have on the perceived sensory aroma of bitters. Bitters are the concentrated alcoholic extract of flavorful plant materials with a wide range of complex sensory and chemical aroma profiles that have not been extensively studied. Previously, we demonstrated that Angostura bitters are characterized by complex aroma attributes described as cola, ginger, orange peel, and black pepper and that the volatile composition of Angostura bitters is predominantly composed of terpenoids. Using GC-R to create in-instrument mixtures of the Angostura headspace extracts, the sensory attributes of Angostura extracts with linalool, α-terpinyl-acetate and caryophyllene omitted were evaluated. The omission experiments demonstrated direct and indirect effects of the individual compounds on the aroma attributes of Angostura bitters, through masking, additive, and synergistic interactions. Caryophyllene in particular, which was present in the headspace extracts at concentration only slightly above sensory threshold levels, had a large and unexpected impact on the sensory properties of the mixtures and may be most responsible for the aromas associated with the whole sample. The GC-R and statistical approaches used here provided valuable tools to reveal relationships among individual compounds and aroma attributes of foods that have not been currently theorized using existing analytical approaches.
Genome-scale CRISPR/Cas9 screen determines factors modulating sensitivity to ProTide NUC-1031
Authors: Sarr Awa , Bré Jennifer , Um In Hwa , Chan Tsz Huen , Mullen Peter , Harrison David J. , Reynolds Paul A.
Published: May 2019

Gemcitabine is a fluoropyrimidine analogue that is used as a mainstay of chemotherapy treatment for pancreatic and ovarian cancers, amongst others. Despite its widespread use, gemcitabine achieves responses in less than 10% of patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer and has a very limited impact on overall survival due to intrinsic and acquired resistance. NUC-1031 (Acelarin), a phosphoramidate transformation of gemcitabine, was the first anti-cancer ProTide to enter the clinic. We find it displays important in vitro cytotoxicity differences to gemcitabine, and a genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 genetic screening approach identified only the pyrimidine metabolism pathway as modifying cancer cell sensitivity to NUC-1031. Low deoxycytidine kinase expression in tumour biopsies from patients treated with gemcitabine, assessed by immunostaining and image analysis, correlates with a poor prognosis, but there is no such correlation in tumour biopsies from a Phase I cohort treated with NUC-1031.
Essential role of prostaglandin E2 and the EP3 receptor in lymphatic vessel development during zebrafish embryogenesis
Authors: Iwasaki Ryo , Tsuge Kyoshiro , Kishimoto Koichiro , Hayashi Yuta , Iwaana Takuya , Hohjoh Hirofumi , Inazumi Tomoaki , Kawahara Atsuo , Tsuchiya Soken , Sugimoto Yukihiko
Published: May 2019

Lymphatic endothelial cells arise from the venous endothelial cells in embryonic lymphatic development. However, the molecular mechanisms remain to be elucidated. We here report that prostaglandin (PG) E2 plays essential roles in the embryonic lymphatic development through the EP3 receptor, one of the PGE2 receptors. Knockdown of the EP3 receptor or inhibition of cyclooxygenases (COX; rate-limiting enzymes for PG synthesis) impaired lymphatic development by perturbing lymphatic specification during zebrafish development. These impairments by COX inhibition were recovered by treatment with sulprostone (EP1/3 agonist). Knockdown of the EP3 receptor further demonstrated its requirement in the expression of sex determining region Y-box 18 (sox18) and nuclear receptor subfamily 2, group F, member 2 (nr2f2), essential factors of the lymphatic specification. The EP3 receptor was expressed in the posterior cardinal vein (region of embryonic lymphatic development) and the adjacent intermediate cell mass (ICM) during the lymphatic specification. COX1 was expressed in the region more upstream of the posterior cardinal vein relative to the EP3 receptor, and the COX1-selective inhibitor impaired the lymphatic specification. On the other hand, two COX2 subtypes did not show distinct sites of expression around the region of expression of the EP3 receptor. Finally, we generated EP3-deficient zebrafish, which also showed defect in lymphatic specification and development. Thus, we demonstrated that COX1-derived PGE2-EP3 pathway is required for embryonic lymphatic development by upregulating the expression of key factors for the lymphatic specification.
The effect of 808 nm and 905 nm wavelength light on recovery after spinal cord injury
Authors: Svobodova Barbora , Kloudova Anna , Ruzicka Jiri , Kajtmanova Ludmila , Navratil Leos , Sedlacek Radek , Suchy Tomas , Jhanwar-Uniyal Meena , Jendelova Pavla , Machova Urdzikova Lucia
Published: May 2019

We investigated the effect of a Multiwave Locked System laser (with a simultaneous 808 nm continuous emission and 905 nm pulse emission) on the spinal cord after spinal cord injury (SCI) in rats. The functional recovery was measured by locomotor tests (BBB, Beam walking, MotoRater) and a sensitivity test (Plantar test). The locomotor tests showed a significant improvement of the locomotor functions of the rats after laser treatment from the first week following lesioning, compared to the controls. The laser treatment significantly diminished thermal hyperalgesia after SCI as measured by the Plantar test. The atrophy of the soleus muscle was reduced in the laser treated rats. The histopathological investigation showed a positive effect of the laser therapy on white and gray matter sparing. Our data suggests an upregulation of M2 macrophages in laser treated animals by the increasing number of double labeled CD68+/CD206+ cells in the cranial and central parts of the lesion, compared to the control animals. A shift in microglial/macrophage polarization was confirmed by gene expression analysis by significant mRNA downregulation of Cd86 (marker of inflammatory M1), and non-significant upregulation of Arg1 (marker of M2). These results demonstrated that the combination of 808 nm and 905 nm wavelength light is a promising non-invasive therapy for improving functional recovery and tissue sparing after SCI.
Effect of endogenous microbiota on the molecular composition of cloud water: a study by Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS)
Authors: Bianco Angelica , Deguillaume Laurent , Chaumerliac Nadine , Vaïtilingom Mickaël , Wang Miao , Delort Anne-Marie , Bridoux Maxime C.
Published: May 2019

A cloud water sample collected at the puy de Dôme observatory (PUY) has been incubated under dark conditions, with its endogenous microbiota at two different temperatures (5 and 15 °C), and the change in the molecular organic composition of this sample was analyzed by Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS). Microorganisms were metabolically active and strongly modified the dissolved organic matter since they were able to form and consume many compounds. Using Venn diagrams, four fractions of compounds were identified: (1) compounds consumed by microbial activity; (2) compounds not transformed during incubation; (3) compounds resulting from dark chemistry (i.e., hydrolysis and Fenton reactions) and, finally, (4) compounds resulting from microbial metabolic activity. At 15 °C, microorganisms were able to consume 58% of the compounds initially present and produce 266 new compounds. For this cloud sample, the impact of dark chemistry was negligible. Decreasing the temperature to 5 °C led to the more efficient degradation of organic compounds (1716 compounds vs. 1094 at 15 °C) but with the less important production of new ones (173). These transformations were analyzed using a division into classes based on the O/C and H/C ratios: lipid-like compounds, aliphatic/peptide-like compounds, carboxylic-rich alicyclic molecule (CRAM)-like structures, carbohydrate-like compounds, unsaturated hydrocarbons, aromatic structures and highly oxygenated compounds (HOCs). Lipid-like, aliphatic/peptide-like and CRAMs-like compounds were the most impacted since they were consumed to maintain the microbial metabolism. On the contrary, the relative percentages of CRAMs and carbohydrates increased after incubation.
Publisher Correction: Introgression of a synthetic sex ratio distortion system from Anopheles gambiae into Anopheles arabiensis
Authors: Bernardini Federica , Kriezis Antonios , Galizi Roberto , Nolan Tony , Crisanti Andrea
Published: May 2019

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Publisher Correction: Contrasting latitudinal patterns in phylogenetic diversity between woody and herbaceous communities
Authors: Massante Jhonny C. , Götzenberger Lars , Takkis Krista , Hallikma Tiit , Kaasik Ants , Laanisto Lauri , Hutchings Michael J. , Gerhold Pille
Published: May 2019

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Aggregation-induced heterogeneities in the emission of upconverting nanoparticles at the submicron scale unfolded by hyperspectral microscopy
Authors: Gonell Francisco , Botas Alexandre M. P. , Brites Carlos D. S. , Amorós Pedro , Carlos Luís D. , Julián-López Beatriz , Ferreira Rute A. S.
Published: May 2019

Hyperspectral microscopy of upconverting nanoparticles in polydimethylsiloxane evidence emission heterogeneities, at the submicron scale, induced by agglomeration.
Switching on single-molecule magnet properties of homoleptic sandwich tris(pyrazolyl)borate dysprosium(iii) cations via intermolecular dipolar coupling
Authors: Alexandropoulos Dimitris I. , Vignesh Kuduva R. , Xie Haomiao , Dunbar Kim R.
Published: May 2019

Two new compounds containing the sandwich-type [Dy(TpMe2)2]+ moiety are reported. Magnetic data and ab initio calculations revealed that intermolecular dipolar interactions have a major impact on the SMM properties of the compounds.
Inhibition of intestinal glucose transport by polyphenols: a mechanism for indirect attenuation of cholesterol absorption?
Authors: Villa-Rodriguez Jose A. , Kerimi Asimina , Tumova Sarka , Williamson Gary
Published: May 2019

Intracellular glucose upregulates NPC1L1 and PCSK9 transcripts, increasing cholesterol and chylomicron output. Inhibition of GLUT2 with polyphenols attenuated this response.
Synergistic effect of polydopamine–polyethylenimine copolymer coating on graphene oxide for EVA nanocomposites and high-performance triboelectric nanogenerators
Authors: Roy Sunanda , Van Hai Le , Kim Jaehwan
Published: May 2019

The fabrication of flexible high-performance EVA–graphene oxide nanocomposite triboelectric nanogenerators and the lighting of 43 blue LEDs.
Fluorination of organoboron compounds
Authors: Pattison Graham
Published: May 2019

This review presents the methods available for the fluorination and radiofluorination of aromatic and aliphatic organoboron compounds.
Phosphine-catalyzed fixation of CO2 with γ-hydroxyl alkynone under ambient temperature and pressure: kinetic resolution and further conversion
Authors: Sun Yao-Liang , Wei Yin , Shi Min
Published: May 2019

Phosphine-catalyzed fixation of CO2 with γ-hydroxyl alkynone under ambient temperature and pressure was achieved and the first example of chiral phosphine catalyzed kinetic resolution of propargyl alcohols via carbon dioxide fixation was demonstrated.
Ligand discrimination during virtual screening of the CB1 cannabinoid receptor crystal structures following cross-docking and microsecond molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Loo Jason S. E. , Emtage Abigail L. , Murali Lahari , Lee Sze Siew , Kueh Alvina L. W. , Alexander Stephen P. H.
Published: May 2019

Ligands of inactive and active-state CB1 receptor crystal structures were swapped and virtual screening performance assessed after molecular dynamics simulations.
Systematic evaluation of hydrophobic deep-melting eutectics as alternative solvents for the extraction of organic solutes from aqueous solution
Authors: Kaul Michael J. , Qadah Diab , Mandella Victoria , Dietz Mark L.
Published: May 2019

Organic solute partitioning between a hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent and water is directly related to the corresponding Pow values.
Study of the magneto-electronic, optical, thermal and thermoelectric applications of double perovskites Ba2MTaO6 (M = Er, Tm)
Authors: Nabi Muskan , Gupta Dinesh C.
Published: May 2019

The structural, electronic, optical, thermodynamic and thermoelectric properties of double perovskites Ba2MTaO6 (M = Er, Tm) have been studied.
Changes of flooding reagents' properties under simulated high temperature/pressure conditions in oil reservoirs and their impact on emulsion stability
Authors: Chen Dong , Gao Yingxin , Sun Dejun , Li Yujiang , Li Feng , Yang Min
Published: May 2019

It is of great significance to know the fate of the polymers and surfactants used for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) in oil reservoirs at a relatively high temperature/pressure.
Laser Raman tweezer spectroscopy to explore the bisphenol A-induced changes in human erythrocytes
Authors: Lukose Jijo , N. Mithun , M. Priyanka , Mohan Ganesh , Shastry Shamee , Chidangil Santhosh
Published: May 2019

Hemoglobin depletion was observed at higher BPA concentration.
Effects of different electrolytes and film thicknesses on structural and thermoelectric properties of electropolymerized poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) films
Authors: Seki Yuhei , Takahashi Momoko , Takashiri Masayuki
Published: May 2019

The effects of electrolyte type and film thickness on the structural and thermoelectric properties of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) thin films on indium-tin-oxide (ITO) substrates prepared using electropolymerization were investigated.
Towards bioinspiredin vitromodels of intestinal mucus
Authors: Sardelli Lorenzo , Pacheco Daniela Peneda , Ziccarelli Anna , Tunesi Marta , Caspani Omar , Fusari Andrea , Briatico Vangosa Francesco , Giordano Carmen , Petrini Paola
Published: May 2019

Intestinal mucus is an anisotropic biological structure that acts as a barrier between the external environment and the epithelium.
Improving the structural stability and electrochemical performance of Na2Li2Ti6O14 nanoparticles via MgF2 coating
Authors: Ma Wei-Wei , Yu Hai-Tao , Guo Chen-Feng , Xie Ying , Ren Ning , Yi Ting-Feng
Published: May 2019

Combination of nanocrystallization and surface coating techniques was improved to be helpful for improving the electrochemical performance of NLTO.
Preparation of sulfonated ordered mesoporous carbon catalyst and its catalytic performance for esterification of free fatty acids in waste cooking oils
Authors: Na Sun , Minhua Zhang , Xiuqin Dong , Lingtao Wang
Published: May 2019

Sulfonated ordered mesoporous carbon solid acid catalysts had excellent catalytic performance for esterification of methanol with FFAs in WCOs.
A practical adsorption model for the formation of submerged oils under the effect of suspended sediments
Authors: Wang Zhaowei , Yang Wenchao , Zhang Yanqiu , Yan Zhiyu , Liu Hui , Sun Bing
Published: May 2019

An adsorption model was proposed for predicting the formation of submerged oils under the effect of suspended sediments.
Desymmetrization of cyclic 1,3-diketones via Ir-catalyzed hydrogenation: an efficient approach to cyclic hydroxy ketones with a chiral quaternary carbon
Authors: Gong Quan , Wen Jialin , Zhang Xumu
Published: May 2019

We herein report an efficient method to synthesize cyclic hydroxy ketones with a chiral quaternary center.
Ammonia borane and hydrazine bis(borane) dehydrogenation mediated by an unsymmetrical (PNN) ruthenium pincer hydride: metal–ligand cooperation for hydrogen production
Authors: Luconi Lapo , Demirci Umit B. , Peruzzini Maurizio , Giambastiani Giuliano , Rossin Andrea
Published: May 2019

The pyrazole-based RuII unsymmetrical pincer hydride (tBuPNN*)RuH(CO) has been exploited as ammonia borane and hydrazine bis(borane) dehydrogenation catalyst in THF solution at ambient temperature.
Aging phenomena during phase separation in fluids: decay of autocorrelation for vapor–liquid transitions
Authors: Roy Sutapa , Bera Arabinda , Majumder Suman , Das Subir K.
Published: May 2019

We performed molecular dynamics simulations to study relaxation phenomena during vapor–liquid transitions in a single component Lennard-Jones system.
Mechanisms of spontaneous chain formation and subsequent microstructural evolution in shear-driven strongly confined drop monolayers
Authors: Singha Sagnik , Malipeddi Abhilash Reddy , Zurita-Gotor Mauricio , Sarkar Kausik , Shen Kevin , Loewenberg Michael , Migler Kalman B. , Blawzdziewicz Jerzy
Published: May 2019

Experimentally observed drop-chain formation in sheared drop monolayers is explained in terms of Hele-Shaw quadrupolar interactions and swapping-trajectory repulsion.
Structure–thermopower relationships in molecular thermoelectrics
Authors: Park Sohyun , Kang Hungu , Yoon Hyo Jae
Published: May 2019

This review provides a comprehensive overview of advances in the last two decades in the physical-organic studies of molecular thermoelectrics.
A mechanistic study of B36-supported atomic Au promoted CO2 electroreduction to formic acid
Authors: Li Wen-Ying , Zhao Xiang , Dang Jing-Shuang
Published: May 2019

A B36 nanoflake is capable of capturing atomic Au and such a single-atom catalyst is highly active and selective to promote the electroreduction of CO2 to formic acid.
O-Vacancy-line defective Ti2CO2 nanoribbons: novel magnetism, tunable carrier mobility, and magnetic device behaviors
Authors: Hu R. , Li Y. H. , Zhang Z. H. , Fan Z. Q. , Sun L.
Published: May 2019

Detailed first-principles calculations show that the O-vacancy-line (OVL) defects can alter nonmagnetic armchair-edged Ti2CO2 nanoribbons to obtain novel magnetism, flexibly tunable spin-resolved carrier mobility, and high-performance magnetic device behaviors.
Risk factors for distant metastasis of patients with primary triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Yao Yi , Chu Yuxin , Xu Bin , Hu Qinyong , Song Qibin
Published: May 2019

Objective: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) involves higher rates of recurrence and distant metastasis. The present study sought to characterize the risk factors for distant metastasis of TNBC.

Methods: The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database was exploited to enroll patients diagnosed with TNBC from 2010 to 2015. The eligible patients were dichotomized into locoregional and distant metastasis at the time of diagnosis. Patients’ demographics and tumor features, and treatment were evaluated to identify the risk factors for distant metastasis of primary TNBC. The categorical variables were examined by chi-square tests. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine the risk factors for distant metastasis. Breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated by Kaplan–Meier plots with log-rank tests.

Results: We collected 26863 patients with primary TNBC, 1330 (5.0%) of them presented with distant metastasis. In the univariate analysis, all the variables indicated statistical significance. The significant variables were subsequently enlisted into the multivariate logistic regression analysis. Age > 50, higher clinical stage T and N, and tumor size > 5 cm were independent risk factors for distant metastasis of primary TNBC. Moreover, higher clinical stage T and stage N were independent risk factors for bone metastasis of the patients. TNBC patients with either bone or visceral metastasis have poor survival, with brain metastasis worst of all, though the OS difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions: TNBC patients with larger age, higher clinical stage, larger tumor size were more predisposed to have distant metastasis. Great attention should be paid to the prognosis of these patients with distant metastasis.
Quantifying CRISPR off-target effects
Authors: Gkazi Soragia Athina
Published: May 2019

Recent advances in the era of genetic engineering have significantly improved our ability to make precise changes in the genomes of human cells. Throughout the years, clinical trials based on gene therapies have led to the cure of diseases such as X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID-X1), adenosine deaminase deficiency (ADA-SCID) and Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome. Despite the success gene therapy has had, there is still the risk of genotoxicity due to the potential oncogenesis introduced by utilising viral vectors. Research has focused on alternative strategies like genome editing without viral vectors as a means to reduce genotoxicity introduced by the viral vectors. Although there is an extensive use of RNA-guided genome editing via the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and associated protein-9 (Cas9) technology for biomedical research, its genome-wide target specificity and its genotoxic side effects remain controversial. There have been reports of on- and off-target effects created by CRISPR–Cas9 that can include small and large indels and inversions, highlighting the potential risk of insertional mutagenesis. In the last few years, a plethora of in silico, in vitro and in vivo genome-wide assays have been introduced with the sole purpose of profiling these effects. Here, we are going to discuss the genotoxic obstacles in gene therapies and give an up-to-date overview of methodologies for quantifying CRISPR–Cas9 effects.
The Finite Verb Morphology Composite: Values From a Community Sample
Authors: Rudolph Johanna M. , Dollaghan Christine A. , Crotteau Simone
Published: May 2019

Purpose

We investigated the finite verb morphology composite (FVMC), a measure associated with developmental language disorder (DLD), in a large community sample to provide evidence on its distribution, its association with other variables, and its sensitivity and specificity.

Method

We coded percent occurrence of FVMC morphemes in obligatory contexts in archival language samples from 676 six-year-olds conversing with an adult family member. Using multiple regression, we quantified the variance in FVMC scores accounted for by language sample characteristics (number of utterances and obligatory contexts) and child/family variables (performance IQ, family history, maternal education, and adult FVMC). We calculated sensitivity and specificity of low (< 85%) FVMC scores for predicting low (−1
SD
) scores on measures of utterance length, receptive vocabulary, and nonword repetition.

Results

FVMC scores ranged from 33% to 100% (
M
= 93%). Number of obligatory contexts (
R
2
= 3%), performance IQ (
R
2
= 11%), and adult FVMC (
R
2
= 18%) were significant covariates. Sensitivity ranged from 25% to 35%; specificity was from 91% to 92%.

Conclusion

FVMC scores at the age of 6 years were generally high, but 12% of the participants had FVMCs below 85%, and scores were significantly associated with characteristics of the language samples, children, and adult interlocutors. Sensitivity of the FVMC was considerably lower in this community sample than in previous studies comparing groups of children who met criteria for DLD or typical language. Evidence from large representative samples is important when developing and validating potential clinical markers of DLD.
Automated design tools for piezoelectric transformer‐based power supplies
Authors: Forrester Jack , Davidson Jonathan N. , Foster Martin P. , Horsley Edward L. , Stone David A.
Published: May 2019

This paper proposed a design approach for piezoelectric‐transformer‐based power supplies. Initially, an analytical approach is used to derive the Mason equivalent circuit parameters of a PT. This is coupled with a semi‐automated procedure to decide the appropriate physical dimensions of the PT. The procedure is applied to a typical low‐power power supply specification, whereupon a specific transformer is design, verified using COMSOL and used as a simulated converter in SPICE. Results show that the design can be successfully implemented while maintaining efficient zero‐voltage switching operation.
Minimising UMP in DFIGs
Authors: Chuan Hawwooi , Shek Jonathan K.H.
Published: May 2019

The doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) has become increasingly popular for variable speed wind turbines because of the lower power electronics converter rating required. However, the small air gap of a DFIG causes it to be vulnerable to slight misalignment of the rotor which may cause a large unbalanced magnetic pull (UMP) to be exerted on the bearings. The reliability of the generator is important to reduce revenue loss; this is especially the case for generators in offshore wind turbines where minimising the cost of energy is crucial in completing with more established forms of electricity generation. This study has proposed the usage of stator damper windings to reduce the UMP. An example of a four‐pole DFIG with static eccentricity is shown where finite element analysis is used to verify the UMP for cases with and without damper windings. Finally, additional losses due to rotor eccentricity are discussed.
Importance of the traffic model in the reliability estimation of highway bridges
Authors: El Hajj Chehade Fatima , Younes Rafic , Hage Chehade Fadi , Mroueh Hussein
Published: May 2019

Road bridges are exposed to stochastic traffic loadings that are not simply determined. The international codes for the design and assessment of highway bridges provide some standard trucks that can be used in the design process. Knowing that the traffic can vary considerably from one bridge to another, standard trucks may lead to poorly estimate the reliability in the assessment process. So, the sensitivity of the reliability indices to the load models will be discussed, on one hand by considering the standard truck given by the French Fascicule 61 and on the other hand by adopting real vehicle data from existing weigh-in-motion station. A set of reinforced concrete bridges will be used for the application.
A predator-prey optimization for structural health monitoring problems
Authors: Geara Christelle , Faddoul Rafic , Chateauneuf Alaa , Raphaël Wassim
Published: May 2019

Monitoring a structure using permanent sensors has been one of the most interesting topics, especially with the increase of the number of aging structures. Such a technique requires the implementation of sensors on a structure to predict the condition states of the structural elements. However, due to the costs of sensors, one must judiciously install few sensors at some defined locations in order to maximize the probability of detecting potential damages. In this paper, we propose a methodology based on a genetic algorithm of type predator-prey with a Bayesian updating of the structural parameters, to optimize the number and location of the sensors to be placed. This methodology takes into consideration all uncertainties related to the degradation of the elements, the mechanical model and the accuracy of sensors. Starting with two initial populations representing the damages (prey) and the sensors (predator), the genetic algorithm evolves both populations in order to converge towards the optimal configuration of sensors, in terms of number and location. The proposed methodology is illustrated by a two-story concrete frame structure.
Resilience assessment of dynamic engineering systems
Authors: Kammouh Omar , Gardoni Paolo , Cimellaro Gian Paolo
Published: May 2019

Resilience indicators are a convenient tool to assess the resilience of engineering systems. They are often used in preliminary designs or in the assessment of complex systems. This paper introduces a novel approach to assess the time-dependent resilience of engineering systems using resilience indicators. The temporal dimension is tackled in this work using the Dynamic Bayesian Network (DBN). DBN extends the classical BN by adding the time dimension. It permits the interaction among variables at different time steps. It can be used to track the evolution of a system’s performance given an evidence recorded at a previous time step. This allows predicting the resilience state of a system given its initial condition. A mathematical probabilistic framework based on the DBN is developed to model the resilience of dynamic engineering systems. A case study is presented in the paper to demonstrate the applicability of the introduced framework.
Development of Seismic Fragility Curves of RC Infilled Frame Buildings in Jordan
Authors: Al-Nimry Hanan
Published: May 2019

This article examines the seismic fragility of low- and mid-rise RC infilled frame buildings in Jordan comprising stone-concrete infill panels. Three dimensional models of 2, 4 and 6 story regular and irregular representative buildings were developed. Pushover analyses were performed to construct capacity curves of the model buildings. Four damage states were considered: slight, moderate, extensive and complete and damage state thresholds were assigned, using expert opinion, based on yield and ultimate spectral displacements of the capacity spectra. Sets of preliminary fragility curves were developed to quantify earthquake damage probabilities in terms of spectral displacements.
Risk of damage and desiccation cracking of construction materials based on raw earth
Authors: El Hajjar Ahmad , Eid Joanna , Ouahbi Tariq , Taibi Said
Published: May 2019

Nowadays, structures are mainly constructed using natural aggregates as sand and gravels. In the future, we would increasingly have to consider replacing them by more abundant and ecological natural materials such as raw earth. However, despite its many qualities (low gray energy, thermal and hygrometric isolation), this eco-material has some defects: cracking by desiccation. The later prevent its widespread diffusion. This study aims to understand the mechanisms of appearance and propagation of cracks in order to try to either prevent or repair it. To carry out this study, digital image correlation technique is used. It consists in performing free desiccation tests to follow the initiation and propagation of cracks, from the beginning of homogeneous strain until the appearance of discontinuity, in order to determine the strains tensor in the massif. In order to understand the origin of cracking, desiccation is studied for different boundary conditions and according to different intrinsic characteristics of the material.
Influence of non-plastic fines on the cyclic resistance of sands to liquefaction
Authors: Jradi Layal , Seif El Dine Bassel , Dupla Jean-Claude , Canou Jean
Published: May 2019

This paper presents an experimental study that investigates the influence of the non-plastic fines on the initiation of instability of sands under cyclic loading. The materials used for this study and the experimental device are first presented, then the results of typical liquefaction tests for both loose and medium dense specimens are presented with emphasis on the exhibited behaviour. The results of a series of cyclic undrained tests that were done with the aid of a triaxial apparatus for different percentages of fines are also presented and analysed. The results reveal that the increase in the non-plastic fines content lead to an increase in the liquefaction resistance of sands.
Effect of Successive Impact Loads From a Drop Weight on a Reinforced Concrete Flat Slab
Authors: Jahami Ali , Temsah Yehya , Baalbaki Ossama , Darwiche Mohamad , Al-Rawi Youmn , Al-Ilani Mohamad , Chaaban Sandy
Published: May 2019

Lebanon is one of the countries which are at high risk of experiencing rock falls. In order to ensure public safety, engineers must take into consideration this risk. In the past years, numerous researches were conducted on the behavior of horizontal structural elements, slabs, of different types under dynamic impact load. Reinforced concrete flat slabs are commonly used slabs in residential buildings. To build a profound understanding of the structural behavior of the slabs under such loadings, it is important to investigate the effect of energy dissipation on the equivalent impact force, mid-span deflection and damage pattern. In this study a sample reinforced concrete slab of 500 x 1000 x 100 mm dimensions is considered. The aim of this paper is to find how these factors vary with the increase in energy as the drop load resembling the real rock fall is left to drop freely from different heights 0.6 m and 1 m.
Seismic internal stability assessment of geosynthetic reinforced earth retaining wall in cohesive soil using limit analysis
Authors: Alhajj Chehade Hicham , Dias Daniel , Sadek Marwan , Hage Chehade Fadi , Jenck Orianne
Published: May 2019

Assessment of internal seismic stability of geosynthetic reinforced cohesive soil retaining walls with likelihood for developing cracks in the failure mechanism is typically done with the limit equilibrium method. However, in this paper, the kinematic theorem of limit analysis combined with the discretization method are used to implement the crack formation in the collapse mechanism in the internal seismic assessment of geosynthetic reinforced soil retaining walls within the framework of the pseudo-static approach. The presence of the crack leads to an increase of the required reinforcement strength that prevent the failure of the structure.
PP-CBW/m-LLDPE/micro-CaCO3 composite films manufactured from bumper waste by blown film extrusion
Authors: Zgheib Nancy , Seif Sylvain , El Hajj Nemr
Published: May 2019

The synthesis of polypropylene-based car bumper waste (PP-CBW)/metallocene linear low-density polyethylene (m-LLDPE)/micro-CaCO3 composite films for agriculture mulch films applications has been thoroughly investigated during this study. The chemical composition of these wastes was determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Three blends of various compositions were prepared using a twin-screw extruder, the pellets were then blown into films using a single screw extruder. The mechanical properties of the films were then studied and compared with the EN 13655, 2002 standards for agriculture mulch films applications. The results indicated that the use of an anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAH-g-PP) as compatibilizer improves the adherence at the interface between the polar acrylic paints present in the car bumper waste and the polymer matrix. Also, the presence of stearic acid surface treated micro-CaCO3 improves considerably the mechanical properties of the composite when the amount of PP-CBW is less than 13 wt%. Using higher amount of PP-CBW improves the tear resistance properties in TD and MD but fails to increase the impact strength and the tensile properties in MD and TD.
Effect of Ion Beam Assisted Deposition technology on the cathode of solar cells
Authors: Chakaroun M. , Saleh A. , El-Khatib M.
Published: May 2019

We realized organic solar cells on ITO anode based on small – molecular materials (CUPC:C60) to be easy to fabricate, cost price, production on large surfaces, efficiency, flexibility and large market of solar panels, but the organic materials are limited by their lifetime. Then, on the ITO we deposited the organic materials by using the vacuum co-evaporation deposition. Cathode is a silver layer to protect the organic layer from the humidity. The penetrations of humidity from the cathode to the organic layer give to organic electronic components a short lifetime, and limit the fabrication of organic solar panels. In order to optimize the lifetime of organic solar cells, we use in this study the IBAD’s technology to deposit the cathode instead of vacuum co-evaporation deposition. The goal of this technology is to reduce the permeation of H2O and O2 from the cathode to the organic layer, by using the argon ions to assist the aluminium deposition of cathode. We realized two series of cells under vacuum and do not exposed to the air. The first, with cathode deposit by the vacuum co-evaporate deposition, but the second we use the IBAD technology to deposit the cathode (60nm unassisted and 40nm deposited with ionic assistance), after we compare their lifetime in the ambient air and under continuous illumination.
Topic delivery of analgesics in oral surgery
Authors: Réthoré Gildas , Kimakhe Saïd , Cloitre Alexandra , Weiss Pierre , Lesclous Philippe
Published: May 2019

Introduction: Following any oral surgery procedure, postoperative pain is an inevitable outcome and can be described as moderate to severe. The pain management is essential for the comfort and the well-being of the patients. Topical delivery and more specifically transmucosal delivery systems seem to be of great value for the development of new pain management strategies. Method: A systematic literature review was performed using PubMedCentral database. Only PubMedCentral indexed publications were selected and included if they described i) a human clinical study with pharmacokinetic and/or pain relief assessment a biomaterial for topic delivery, ii) the delivery of analgesics or NSAIDs for analgesic purpose and iii) a biomaterial for topic delivery. Results: Ten articles were selected among which 4 pharmacokinetic studies and 8 studies describing pain relief. Six of the selected articles were well defined with a good scientific level of evidence (level 2) and 4 of them with a low level of evidence. Discussion: The clinical investigations demonstrated a good analgesia, a rapid pain relief with a decrease of the administered doses compared to the oral administration. Moreover, these topic analgesics were well tolerated by the patients. Number of devices was developed for the topical delivery after oral surgery procedures. Excepting a gelatin sponge and a hydro alcoholic gel, most of the devices were made of cellulose and its derivatives. Authors reported that the materials showed a good maintenance at the site of application and the release of the analgesic was well controlled over the time. Conclusion: However, well conducted large clinical trials are still missing in order to validate the absence of side effects.
A novel system for the abatement of fugitive emissions during charging in a by-product coke oven
Authors: Boscolo Marco , Padoano Elio , Bregant Luigi , Dimastromatteo Vincenzo , Piller Marzio , Bellini Marco
Published: May 2019

The article presents a study on the measures adopted in an existing coke plant in order to reduce levels of benzo(a)pyrene dispersed in the environment surrounding the facility. The area has been affected by significant levels of pollution from polycyclic aromatic compounds due to the fugitive emissions from the coke oven, which did not comply with the most recent regulation. A monitoring programme was therefore launched in order to support a framework for intervention. Several problems with the battery made it necessary to implement a novel system to collect and abate fugitive emissions during the operations. The monitoring of the fugitive emissions from the coke oven, before, during and after the implementation of the system, has shown a drop of the visible emission time at charging below 30 s, matched by the return of pollution from benzo(a)pyrene in the area below the legal limits (1 ng/Nm3). When compared to the installation costs, these results suggest that the proposed solution can be replicated in other existing by-product coke plants.
Investigation on blasted tool surfaces as a measure for material flow control in sheet-bulk metal forming
Authors: Merklein Marion , Löffler Maria , Gröbel Daniel , Henneberg Johannes
Published: May 2019

Highly integrated and closely tolerated functional components can be produced by sheet-bulk metal forming which is the application of bulk forming operations on sheet metal. These processes are characterized by a successive and/or simultaneous occurrence of different load conditions which reduce the geometrical accuracy of the parts. One challenge within sheet-bulk metal forming is the identification of methods to control the material flow to improve the product quality. A suitable approach is the local modification of the tribological conditions. Within this study, requirements regarding the needed adaption of the tribological system for a specific process were defined by numerical investigations. The results reveal that a local increase of the friction leads to an improved geometrical accuracy. Based on these results, abrasive blasting as a method to modify the tool surface and thus influencing the tribological behaviour was investigated. For the determination of the tribological mechanism of blasted tool surfaces, the influence of different blasting media as well as blasting pressures on the surface integrity and the friction were determined. Additionally, the functional stability of a modification was investigated. Finally, the correlations between surface properties and friction conditions were used to derive the mechanisms of blasted tool surfaces.
Calibration numérique 3D de vannes basculantes pour
la mesure du débit déversé
Authors: Quantin M. , Morio C. , Guibu Pereira G. , Vazquez J. , Wertel J. , Isel S. , Galuola S. , Buche J.
Published: May 2019

Un des objectifs principaux de l’arrêté du 21 juillet 2015 est de limiter les déversements non contrôlés du réseau d’assainissement vers le milieu naturel. Certaines collectivités, telles qu’Orléans Métropole, ont mis en place des vannes à basculement sur les conduites exutoires de leurs déversoirs afin de maximiser le stockage en réseau et de retarder ainsi les déversements d’eau vers le milieu naturel. Le présent travail consiste à concilier l’usage de ce type de vanne avec l’obligation d’autosurveillance, induite par le même arrêté, en élaborant une loi de calibration. Après une caractérisation du fonctionnement hydraulique de ce type de vanne, notamment en écartant l’influence du poids de la vanne et du clapet antiretour, une approche 1D, basée sur le couplage d’une loi d’orifice et d’un calcul de courbe de remous à charge spécifique constante, est proposée avant d’être validée par modélisation 3D avec un logiciel de mécanique des fluides numérique. Enfin, l’article conclut sur la proposition d’un dispositif de mesure adapté à ce type de vanne, composé d’une sonde à ultrasons en amont et d’un détecteur de basculement sur la vanne, et à un calcul de l’incertitude assortie à l’évaluation du débit, environ 20%.
Modélisation hydraulique 3D d’un by-pass en entrée de STEU pour la définition de la méthode de mesure du débit déversé
Authors: Chausserie-Laprée P. , Arias L. , Manlhiot J.-P. , Chatard C. , Moyen C. , Barelaud S.
Published: May 2019

Dans le cadre de la mise en oeuvre du diagnostic permanent (arrêté du 21 juillet 2015 relatif aux systèmes d’assainissement), la communauté d’agglomération Limoges Métropole réalise des études de diagnostic et de faisabilité de l’instrumentation d’une trentaine de points de son réseau de collecte et de transport des eaux usées. Parmi les déversoirs d’orage à l’étude, le by-pass de l’usine de prétraitement des Casseaux est déjà instrumenté par un dispositif de mesure de débit de type hauteur/vitesse. Le canal de by-pass peut être alimenté par une surverse haute située en entrée d’usine, ou par un long déversoir courbe situé à l’aval de l’usine dans un bassin de stockage de 8500 m3 environ. L’analyse des données de mesures actuelles a notamment permis de déterminer les gammes de débits déversés et de constater que le by-pass peut être alimenté par les deux déversoirs de manière indépendante ou simultanée : cette complexité hydraulique rend nécessaire le recours à de la modélisation 3D. En effet, dans ce cas, l’objet d’une telle modélisation est de vérifier si l’écoulement dans la section de mesure existante est suffisamment homogène pour permettre une mesure fiable du débit dans les différentes configurations de fonctionnement possibles et, le cas échéant, d’adapter la méthode de mesure ou d’en proposer une nouvelle. Les premiers résultats de modélisation 3D ont mis en évidence la difficulté de mesure de la vitesse dans le canal de by-pass, compte tenu des perturbations de l’écoulement lorsque le déversoir du bassin est sollicité. Une solution envisagée pourrait être la définition, par modélisation 3D, d’une loi hauteur/débit propre à chaque déversoir afin de s’affranchir des conditions non propices à la mesure de la vitesse dans le canal de by-pass.
Sexual Function and Socio-Sexual Difficulties in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Authors: Fliegner Maike , Richter-Appelt Hertha , Krupp Kerstin , Brunner Franziska
Published: May 2019

Introduction PCOS is the most common endocrine syndrome in women of the reproductive age that has manifold effects on the life of affected women. Little scientific attention has been devoted to these womenʼs sexual lives.

Aim To investigate sexual quality of life in women with PCOS.

Methods The sample size was n = 44. Measures employed were: An extended list of sexual dysfunctions and perceived distress based on DSM-IV-TR, Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), German Questionnaire on Feelings of Inadequacy in Social and Sexual Situations (FUSS), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSE), Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) subscale depression. The relationships of these components were examined including further variables (body mass index, degree of hirsutism using the Ferriman-Gallwey Score, wish for a child). An open question about what participants see as the source of their sexual problems was presented.

Results Only moderate impairment in sexual function was detected, but feelings of inadequacy in social and sexual situations were markedly elevated and positively correlated with the degree of hirsutism. Depression showed to be a major problem.

Conclusion Patients with PCOS should be screened for socio-sexual difficulties and emotional problems. Specialized psychological and sexological counselling can complement patient care.
Zum „konkurrierenden Fluss“ in der Shuntchirurgie
Authors: Krönung Gerhard
Published: May 2019

Ein „konkurrierender Fluss“ ist eine nicht seltene hämodynamische Variante in der Shuntchirurgie. Er muss assoziiert/bemerkt, die relative Anteiligkeit der konkurrierenden Strombahnen an der venösen Drainage beschrieben und bewertet werden und beeinflusst dann regelhaft die Taktik bei Indikation und Operation/Intervention.