bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A importância da água na avicultura
Authors: Barbosa Tatiana Morais , Silva Frederico Lopes da , Rodriz Cássia Gabrielle de Queiróz , Oliveira Rodrigo Arruda de , Navarro Rodrigo Diana , Santana Angela Patrícia , Murata Luci Sayori
Published: October 2016

In poultry industry should be given to water the same importance that is given to other factors such as facilities, feeding and management. Poultry production require large amounts of water for their development and welfare. Besides water for drinking, must also consider water as an input for the management of vaccination, cleaning, thermal control environment and disinfection of equipment and facilities. Several variables affect water consumption, including genetics, animal age, sex, ambient temperature, water temperature, the relative humidity and nutritional composition. Water is indispensable for life, because of the functions it plays in metabolism, so it is of fundamental importance to the rational use of water of good quality physical, chemical and microbiological. Because birds do not have sweat glands to aid in heat dissipation, the consumption of cold water is the alternative that these animals have to lower body temperature in situations of heat stress. It is undisputed that when the bird has water availability of adequate quality and quantity, this will present a performance improvement.
Effect of Saxagliptin on Renal Outcomes in the SAVOR-TIMI 53 Trial
Authors: Mosenzon Ofri , Leibowitz Gil , Bhatt Deepak L. , Cahn Avivit , Hirshberg Boaz , Wei Cheryl , Im KyungAh , Rozenberg Aliza , Yanuv Ilan , Stahre Christina , Ray Kausik K. , Iqbal Nayyar , Braunwald Eugene , Scirica Benjamin M. , Raz Itamar
Published: October 2016

OBJECTIVE

Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors may have a protective effect in diabetic nephropathy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We studied renal outcomes of 16,492 patients with type 2 diabetes, randomized to saxagliptin versus placebo and followed for a median of 2.1 years in the Saxagliptin Assessment of Vascular Outcomes Recorded in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus–Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 53 (SAVOR-TIMI 53) trial.

RESULTS

At baseline, 9,696 (58.8%) subjects had normoalbuminuria (albumin/creatinine ratio [ACR] <30 mg/g), 4,426 (26.8%) had microalbuminuria (ACR 30–300 mg/g), and 1,638 (9.9%) had macroalbuminuria (ACR >300 mg/g). Treatment with saxagliptin was associated with improvement in and/or less deterioration in ACR categories from baseline to end of trial (EOT) (P = 0.021, P < 0.001, and P = 0.049 for individuals with baseline normoalbuminuria, microalbuminuria, and macroalbuminuria, respectively). At 2 years, the difference in mean ACR change between saxagliptin and placebo arms was −19.3 mg/g (P = 0.033) for estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) >50 mL/min/body surface area per 1.73 m2 (BSA), −105 mg/g (P = 0.011) for 50 ≥ eGFR ≥ 30 mL/min/BSA, and −245.2 mg/g (P = 0.086) for eGFR <30 mL/min/BSA. Analyzing ACR as a continuous variable showed reduction in ACR with saxagliptin (1 year, P < 0.0001; 2 years, P = 0.0143; and EOT, P = 0.0158). The change in ACR did not correlate with that in HbA1c (r = 0.041, 0.052, and 0.036; 1 year, 2 years, and EOT, respectively). The change in eGFR was similar in the saxagliptin and placebo groups. Safety renal outcomes, including doubling of serum creatinine, initiation of chronic dialysis, renal transplantation, or serum creatinine >6.0 mg/dL, were similar as well.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with saxagliptin improved ACR, even in the normoalbuminuric range, without affecting eGFR. The beneficial effect of saxagliptin on albuminuria could not be explained by its effect on glycemic control.
Racial/Cultural Awareness Workshops and Post-College Civic Engagement
Authors: Bowman Nicholas A. , Denson Nida , Park Julie J.
Published: October 2016

Racial/cultural awareness workshops constitute a salient form of co-curricular diversity engagement in higher education. Although these workshops are generally quite short in duration (often no more than two hours), previous research suggests that workshop participation is associated with undergraduate civic growth. The current study uses multilevel propensity score matching analyses to explore whether racial/cultural awareness workshops during college are associated with a variety of civic outcomes six years after graduation. Using a 10-year longitudinal sample of 8,634 alumni from 229 institutions, diversity workshop participation is significantly and positively related to 10 post-college behaviors, attitudes/beliefs, and skills/tendencies. Moreover, these effects are consistent regardless of participants’ race/ethnicity, gender, and institutional affiliation.
Diffuse traumatic brain injury in the mouse induces a transient proliferation of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells in injured white matter tracts
Authors: Flygt Johanna , Clausen Fredrik , Marklund Niklas
Published: October 2016

Background: Injury to the white matter may lead to impaired neuronal signaling and is commonly observed following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Although endogenous repair of TBI-induced white matter pathology is limited, oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) may be stimulated to proliferate and regenerate functionally myelinating oligodendrocytes. Even though OPCs are present throughout the adult brain, little is known about their proliferative activity following axonal injury caused by TBI.

Objective: We hypothesized that central fluid percussion injury (cFPI) in mice, a TBI model causing wide-spread axonal injury, results in OPC proliferation.

Methods: Proliferation of OPCs was evaluated in 27 cFPI mice using 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) labeling and a cell proliferation assay at 2 ( n = 9), 7 ( n = 8) and 21 ( n = 10) days post injury (dpi). Sham-injured mice ( n = 14) were used as controls. OPC proliferation was quantified by immunohistochemistry using the OPC markers NG2 and Olig2 in several white matter loci including the corpus callosum, external capsule, fimbriae, the internal capsule and cerebral peduncle.

Results: The number of EdU/DAPI/Olig2-positive cells were increased in the cFPI group compared to sham-injured animals at 7 days post-injury (dpi; p≤0.05) in the majority of white matter regions. The OPC proliferation had subsided by 21 dpi. The number of EdU/DAPI/NG2 cells was also increase at 7 dpi in the external capsule and fimbriae.

Conclusion: These results suggest that traumatic axonal injury in the mouse induces a transient proliferative response of residing OPCs. These proliferating OPCs may replace dead oligodendrocytes and contribute to remyelination, which needs evaluation in future studies.
Color Vision and Performance on Color-Coded Cockpit Displays
Authors: Gaska James P. , Wright Steven T. , Winterbottom Marc D. , Hadley Steven C.
Published: October 2016

INTRODUCTION: Although there are numerous studies that demonstrate that color vision deficient (CVD) individuals perform less well than color vision normal (CVN) individuals in tasks that require discrimination or identification of colored stimuli, there remains a need to quantify
the relationship between the type and severity of CVD and performance on operationally relevant tasks.METHODS: Participants were classified as CVN (N = 45) or CVD (N = 49) using the Rabin cone contrast test, which is the standard color vision screening test used by
the United States Air Force. In the color condition, test images that were representative of the size, shape, and color of symbols and lines used on fifth-generation fighter aircraft displays were used to measure operational performance. In the achromatic condition, all symbols and lines had
the same chromaticity but differed in luminance. Subjects were asked to locate and discriminate between friend vs. foe symbols (red vs. green, or brighter vs. dimmer) while speed and accuracy were recorded.RESULTS: Increasing color deficiency was associated with decreasing speed
and accuracy for the color condition (R2 > 0.2), but not for the achromatic condition. Mean differences between CVN and CVD individuals showed the same pattern.DISCUSSION: Although lower CCT scores are clearly associated with lower performance in color related tasks,
the magnitude of the performance loss was relatively small and there were multiple examples of high-performing CVD individuals who had higher operational scores than low-performing CVN individuals.Gaska JP, Wright ST, Winterbottom MD, Hadley SC. Color vision and performance on color-coded cockpit displays. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2016; 87(11):921–927.
Emergency Medical Considerations in a Space-Suited Patient
Authors: Garbino Alejandro , Nusbaum Derek M. , Buckland Daniel M. , Menon Anil S. , Clark Jonathan B. , Antonsen Erik L.
Published: October 2016

INTRODUCTION: The Stratex Project is a high altitude balloon flight that culminated in a freefall from 41,422 m (135,890 ft), breaking the record for the highest freefall to date. Crew recovery operations required an innovative approach due to the unique nature of the event as
well as the equipment involved. The parachutist donned a custom space suit similar to a NASA Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU), with life support system mounted to the front and a parachute on the back. This space suit had a metal structure around the torso, which, in conjunction with the
parachute and life support assembly, created a significant barrier to extraction from the suit in the event of a medical emergency. For this reason the Medical Support Team coordinated with the pressure suit assembly engineer team for integration, training in suit removal, definition of a
priori contingency leadership on site, creation of color-coded extraction scenarios, and extraction drills with a suit mock-up that provided insight into limitations to immediate access. This paper discusses novel extraction processes and contrasts the required medical preparation for this
type of equipment with the needs of the prior record-holding jump that used a different space suit with easier immediate access.Garbino A, Nusbaum DM, Buckland DM, Menon AS, Clark JB, Antonsen EL. Emergency medical considerations in a space-suited patient. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2016; 87(11):958–962.
PDO as a Mechanism for Reterritorialisation and Agri-Food Governance: A Comparative Analysis of Cheese Products in the UK and Switzerland
Authors: Maye Damian , Kirwan James , Schmitt Emilia , Keech Daniel , Barjolle Dominique
Published: October 2016

The protection of geographical indications (European regulation 1151/2012) is arguably the most significant initiative, certainly within Europe, that promotes foods with territorial associations and reorganises agri-food chain governance through a strategy of reterritorialisation. Research on Protected Designation of Origins (PDOs) and Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs) suggests that they generate significant economic value at an EU-level, especially in certain countries. They can also help to deliver territorial rural development policy and develop new food markets. In this paper we examine the way the PDO scheme has been developed and applied in one commodity sector (cheese) in two countries (Switzerland and the UK), where the uptake of PDOs is variable. We adopt a food chain approach and examine specific cheese product case studies (at micro and meso levels) in both countries to better understand how the PDO scheme (as a territorialisation and respacing strategy) is implemented. L’Etivaz and Le Gruyère are examined in Switzerland. Single Gloucester and West Country cheddar are examined in the UK. The PDO scheme is an important governance strategy and regulatory system, but despite strict guidelines regarding implementation and geographical infrastructure there are notable differences between the UK and Switzerland in terms of how the label is used to organise and respatialise food chains: it is framed as a strategy to protect the rural economy in Switzerland but is promoted more as a mechanism to communicate and reconnect with consumers in the UK.
Identification of the Response of a Controlled Building Structure Subjected to Seismic Load by Using Nonlinear System Models
Authors: Kaloop Mosbeh , Hu Jong , Bigdeli Yasser
Published: October 2016

The present study investigates the prediction efficiency of nonlinear system-identification models, in assessing the behavior of a coupled structure-passive vibration controller. Two system-identification models, including Nonlinear AutoRegresive with eXogenous inputs (NARX) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), are used to model the behavior of an experimentally scaled three-story building incorporated with a tuned mass damper (TMD) subjected to seismic loads. The experimental study is performed to generate the input and output data sets for training and testing the designed models. The parameters of root-mean-squared error, mean absolute error and determination coefficient statistics are used to compare the performance of the aforementioned models. A TMD controller system works efficiently to mitigate the structural vibration. The results revealed that the NARX and ANFIS models could be used to identify the response of a controlled structure. The parameters of both two time-delays of the structure response and the seismic load were proven to be effective tools in identifying the performance of the models. A comparison based on the parametric evaluation of the two methods showed that the NARX model outperforms the ANFIS model in identifying structures response.
Au/CeO2 Catalysts: Structure and CO Oxidation Activity
Authors: Centeno Miguel , Ramírez Reina Tomás , Ivanova Svetlana , Laguna Oscar , Odriozola José
Published: October 2016

In this comprehensive review, the main aspects of using Au/CeO2 catalysts in oxidation reactions are considered. The influence of the preparation methods and synthetic parameters, as well as the characteristics of the ceria support (presence of doping cations, oxygen vacancies concentration, surface area, redox properties, etc.) in the dispersion and chemical state of gold are revised. The proposed review provides a detailed analysis of the literature data concerning the state of the art and the applications of gold–ceria systems in oxidation reactions.
Self-Cleaning Mineral Paint for Application in Architectural Heritage
Authors: Pal Sudipto , Contaldi Vincenzo , Licciulli Antonio , Marzo Fabio
Published: October 2016

A mineral silicate paint has been developed for architectural heritage. To enhance durability, any type of organic additive has been avoided. Potassium silicate was the binder agent intended to give strong adherence and durability to stone and concretes. Incorporation of mainly anatase titanium dioxide was intended to act both as a white, bright pigment and as a photocatalyst. Reflectivity analyses on the paint in the visible-to-near infrared wavelength region show high solar heat reflection. The self-cleaning activity of the mineral paint was evaluated by the degradation of organic dyes under solar light irradiation. Anatase titania was effective in decomposing organic and airborne pollutants with the solar radiation. The optical properties and self-cleaning activity were compared with the organic binder-based paints and commercial paints. Developed paints possess high stability: since they contain only inorganic components that do not fade with exposure to solar radiation, photocatalytic self-cleaning capability further enhances such stability.
Atmospheric Plasma Spraying of Single Phase Lanthanum Zirconate Thermal Barrier Coatings with Optimized Porosity
Authors: Mauer Georg , Du Linnan , Vaßen Robert
Published: October 2016

The shortcomings at elevated operation temperatures of the standard material yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) for thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) have initiated many research activities seeking alternatives. One candidate is the pyrochlore lanthanum zirconate La2Zr2O7 (LZ), which is phase-stable to its melting point. At the same time, it shows a lower thermal conductivity and a lower sintering tendency when compared to YSZ. Because of its low thermal expansion coefficient and poor toughness, it is applied in combination with YSZ in double layer TBC systems. It is the current state of knowledge that LZ is prone to lanthanum depletion if processed by plasma spraying. The process conditions have to be selected carefully to avoid this. Furthermore, the amount and morphology of the coating porosity is essential for a good thermo-mechanical performance. In this work, the development and testing of LZ/YSZ double layer TBC systems is described. Initially, suitable basic parameters (torch, plasma gas composition, and power) were tested with respect to coating stoichiometry. Then, microstructures were optimized by adjusting feed rate, spray distance, and by selecting a more appropriate feedstock. Powder particles and coatings were characterized by digital image analysis.
A Heterobimetallic 2-D Coordination Polymer [Na2(Cu2I2(2pyCOO)4)(H2O)4]n (2pyCOO−=picolinate) within a 3-D Supramolecular Architecture
Authors: Kamari Anis , Haque Rosenani , Razali Mohd
Published: October 2016

A heterobimetallic 2-D coordination polymer, [Na2(Cu2I2(2pyCOO)4)(H2O)4]n (1) (2pyCOO=picolinate) was synthesized and characterized. The complex was also structurally characterized using single X-ray diffraction studies that revealed the complex 1 having a vertex symbol of 4.82 which corresponds to fes topology. Together with hydrogen bonds and interdigitating π···π interactions, these thus facilitate the formation of 3-D supramolecular network. The nitrogen gas absorption amount of 1 at 77 K shows a small volume of N2 sorption isotherm with a small Langmuir and a Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area indicating that the heterobimetallic 3-D supramolecular of 1 exhibits a very weak ability of adsorbing gas.
3D Environment Mapping Using the Kinect V2 and Path Planning Based on RRT Algorithms
Authors: Aguilar Wilbert , Morales Stephanie
Published: October 2016

This paper describes a 3D path planning system that is able to provide a solution trajectory for the automatic control of a robot. The proposed system uses a point cloud obtained from the robot workspace, with a Kinect V2 sensor to identify the interest regions and the obstacles of the environment. Our proposal includes a collision-free path planner based on the Rapidly-exploring Random Trees variant (RRT*), for a safe and optimal navigation of robots in 3D spaces. Results on RGB-D segmentation and recognition, point cloud processing, and comparisons between different RRT* algorithms, are presented.
Socialism and the Blockchain
Authors: Huckle Steve , White Martin
Published: October 2016

Bitcoin (BTC) is often cited as Libertarian. However, the technology underpinning Bitcoin, blockchain, has properties that make it ideally suited to Socialist paradigms. Current literature supports the Libertarian viewpoint by focusing on the ability of Bitcoin to bypass central authority and provide anonymity; rarely is there an examination of blockchain technology’s capacity for decentralised transparency and auditability in support of a Socialist model. This paper conducts a review of the blockchain, Libertarianism, and Socialist philosophies. It then explores Socialist models of public ownership and looks at the unique cooperative properties of blockchain that make the technology ideal for supporting Socialist societies. In summary, this paper argues that blockchain technologies are not just a Libertarian tool, they also enhance Socialist forms of governance.
The Rural-Urban Difference in BMI and Anemia among Children and Adolescents
Authors: Zou Yan , Zhang Rong-Hua , Xia Shi-Chang , Huang Li-Chun , Fang Yue-Qiang , Meng Jia , Chen Jiang , Zhang He-Xiang , Zhou Biao , Ding Gang-Qiang
Published: October 2016

There is growing concern over the double burden of over- and under-nutrition in individuals, especially in children and adolescents, which could dwarf their growth and development. This study aims to explore the rural-urban difference in BMI and anemia among children and adolescents. A stratified cluster sampling technique was employed. Dietary data were collected through interviews, and anthropometric values were measured. There were 1534 children and adolescents who participated in this study, including 775 male and 759 female participants. The prevalence of obesity among children living in a city, township and rural area was 10.3%, 8.5% and 5.5%, and that among adolescents was 1.4%, 2.9% and 2.8%. The prevalence of anemia among children and living in a city, township and rural area was 4.3%, 2.5% and 4.5%, while that among adolescents was 6.1%, 3.7% and 11.3%, respectively, with significant difference (χ2 = 10.824, p = 0.004). The prevalence of being overweight, obesity and anemia was significant when comparing children with adolescents (χ2 = 37.861, p = 0.000; χ2 = 19.832, p = 0.000; χ2 = 8.611, p = 0.003). Findings of this study indicate the double burden of malnutrition in Zhejiang province, characterized by a high prevalence of being overweight, obesity and anemia among children and a high prevalence of anemia among adolescents living in townships.
The Association between LIPC rs493258 Polymorphism and the Susceptibility to Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Wang Yafeng , Wang Mingxu , Zhang Xiaoqing , Nie Jing , Zhang Ming , Liu Xiaohong , Ma Le
Published: October 2016

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association of the hepatic lipase (LIPC) rs493258 polymorphism and susceptibility to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). A systematic search in PubMed, EMBASE, and ISI web of science databases was performed to identify eligible published studies without language restrictions up to April 2016. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in different stages of AMD were estimated under different genetic models using meta-analytic methods. Seven studies comprising 20,559 cases and 17,200 controls met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The LIPC rs493258 polymorphism showed a significant association with a lower risk of AMD under the allelic model (OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.84–0.90). Significant relationships between the variant and AMD were also observed in other genetic models (OR ranging from 0.71 to 0.86, all p < 0.05). Stratified analysis based on ethnicity found that LIPC rs493258 polymorphism had a significant association with the decreased risk of the disease in the Caucasian population, but not in the Asian population. For late AMD, significant associations of the rs493258 polymorphism with a lower risk of this disease were also observed in the allelic genetic model (OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.83–0.90). This meta-analysis demonstrates that the T allele in the LIPC rs493258 polymorphism was significantly associated with the risk of any and late AMD. The associations of the locus with early and late AMD risk in various populations need further exploration.
Age- and Brain Region-Specific Changes of Glucose Metabolic Disorder, Learning, and Memory Dysfunction in Early Alzheimer’s Disease Assessed in APP/PS1 Transgenic Mice Using 18F-FDG-PET
Authors: Li Xue-Yuan , Men Wei-Wei , Zhu Hua , Lei Jian-Feng , Zuo Fu-Xing , Wang Zhan-Jing , Zhu Zhao-Hui , Bao Xin-Jie , Wang Ren-Zhi
Published: October 2016

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a leading cause of dementia worldwide, associated with cognitive deficits and brain glucose metabolic alteration. However, the associations of glucose metabolic changes with cognitive dysfunction are less detailed. Here, we examined the brains of APP/presenilin 1 (PS1) transgenic (Tg) mice aged 2, 3.5, 5 and 8 months using 18F-labed fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) microPET to assess age- and brain region-specific changes of glucose metabolism. FDG uptake was calculated as a relative standardized uptake value (SUVr). Morris water maze (MWM) was used to evaluate learning and memory dysfunction. We showed a glucose utilization increase in multiple brain regions of Tg mice at 2 and 3.5 months but not at 5 and 8 months. Comparisons of SUVrs within brains showed higher glucose utilization than controls in the entorhinal cortex, hippocampus, and frontal cortex of Tg mice at 2 and 3.5 months but in the thalamus and striatum at 3.5, 5 and 8 months. By comparing SUVrs in the entorhinal cortex and hippocampus, Tg mice were distinguished from controls at 2 and 3.5 months. In MWM, Tg mice aged 2 months shared a similar performance to the controls (prodromal-AD). By contrast, Tg mice failed training tests at 3.5 months but failed all MWM tests at 5 and 8 months, suggestive of partial or complete cognitive deficits (symptomatic-AD). Correlation analyses showed that hippocampal SUVrs were significantly correlated with MWM parameters in the symptomatic-AD stage. These data suggest that glucose metabolic disorder occurs before onset of AD signs in APP/PS1 mice with the entorhinal cortex and hippocampus affected first, and that regional FDG uptake increase can be an early biomarker for AD. Furthermore, hippocampal FDG uptake is a possible indicator for progression of Alzheimer’s cognition after cognitive decline, at least in animals.
Cloning and Expression of Ecdysone Receptor and Retinoid X Receptor from Procambarus clarkii: Induction by Eyestalk Ablation
Authors: Dai Tian-Hao , Sserwadda Ali , Song Kun , Zang Ya-Nan , Shen Huai-Shun
Published: October 2016

Ecdysone receptor and retinoid X receptor are key regulators in molting. Here, full length ecdysone receptor (PcEcR) and retinoid X receptor (PcRXR) cDNAs from Procambarus clarkii were cloned. Full length cDNA of PcEcR has 2500 bp, encoding 576 amino acid proteins, and full length cDNA of PcRXR has 2593 bp, in which a 15 bp and a 204 bp insert/deletion splice variant regions in DNA binding domain and hinge domain were identified. The two splice variant regions in PcRXR result four isoforms: PcRXR1-4, encoding 525, 520, 457 and 452 amino acids respectively. PcEcR was highly expressed in the hepatopancreas and eyestalk and PcRXR was highly expressed in the eyestalk among eight examined tissues. Both PcEcR and PcRXR had induced expression after eyestalk ablation (ESA) in the three examined tissues. In muscle, PcEcR and PcRXR were upregulated after ESA, PcEcR reached the highest level on day 3 after ESA and increased 33.5-fold relative to day 0, and PcRXR reached highest the level on day 1 after ESA and increased 2.7-fold relative to day 0. In the hepatopancreas, PcEcR and PcRXR dEcReased continuously after ESA, and the expression levels of PcEcR and PcRXR were only 0.7% and 1.7% on day 7 after ESA relative to day 0, respectively. In the ovaries, PcEcR was upregulated after ESA, reached the highest level on day 3 after ESA, increased 3.0-fold relative to day 0, and the expression level of PcRXR changed insignificantly after ESA (p > 0.05). The different responses of PcEcR and PcRXR after ESA indicates that different tissues play different roles (and coordinates their functions) in molting.
Silicon Nitride Bearings for Total Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: McEntire Bryan , Lakshminarayanan Ramaswamy , Ray Darin , Clarke Ian , Puppulin Leonardo , Pezzotti Giuseppe
Published: October 2016

The articulation performance of silicon nitride against conventional and highly cross-linked polyethylene, as well as for self-mated silicon nitride bearings, was examined in a series of standard hip simulation studies. Wear rates for polyethylene liners against silicon nitride femoral heads were consistent with reported literature, although higher than cobalt chromium controls. Excessive protein precipitation was a confounding factor in interpretation of the wear data. Post wear-test Raman spectroscopy of the cross-linked polyethylene liners showed no oxidative degradation. Wear of self-mated silicon nitride was found to be essentially zero and indistinguishable from alumina controls using continuously orbital hip simulation for up to three million cycles. However, introduction of an alternative loading profile from three to five million cycles, including a stop-dwell-start sequence, significantly increased wear for two of six silicon nitride couples. This behavior is associated with formation and disruption of a gelatinous silicic acid tribochemical film, and is consistent with a recurrent transition from fluid-film to boundary lubrication. Overall, these results suggest that silicon nitride articulation against dissimilar counterface surfaces (e.g., highly cross-linked polyethylene) is preferred.
The Optimization of Process Parameters and Microstructural Characterization of Fiber Laser Welded Dissimilar HSLA and MART Steel Joints
Authors: Yuce Celalettin , Tutar Mumin , Karpat Fatih , Yavuz Nurettin
Published: October 2016

Nowadays, environmental impact, safety and fuel efficiency are fundamental issues for the automotive industry. These objectives are met by using a combination of different types of steels in the auto bodies. Therefore, it is important to have an understanding of how dissimilar materials behave when they are welded. This paper presents the process parameters’ optimization procedure of fiber laser welded dissimilar high strength low alloy (HSLA) and martensitic steel (MART) steel using a Taguchi approach. The influence of laser power, welding speed and focal position on the mechanical and microstructural properties of the joints was determined. The optimum parameters for the maximum tensile load-minimum heat input were predicted, and the individual significance of parameters on the response was evaluated by ANOVA results. The optimum levels of the process parameters were defined. Furthermore, microstructural examination and microhardness measurements of the selected welds were conducted. The samples of the dissimilar joints showed a remarkable microstructural change from nearly fully martensitic in the weld bead to the unchanged microstructure in the base metals. The heat affected zone (HAZ) region of joints was divided into five subzones. The fusion zone resulted in an important hardness increase, but the formation of a soft zone in the HAZ region.
High Cycle Fatigue Property of Carburized 20Cr Gear Steel under Axial Loading
Authors: Liu Pengfei , Li Wei , Nehila Abdelhak , Sun Zhenduo , Deng Hailong
Published: October 2016

The high cycle fatigue property of carburized 20Cr gear steel was experimentally investigated under axial loading with a stress ratio of zero. The test results show that this steel exhibits gradually decreasing S-N characteristics, and the fatigue strength corresponding to 109 cycles is about 455 MPa. Based on the observation of fracture surfaces, the interior inclusion fisheye-induced fracture is the predominant fracture mode in the life regime beyond 105 cycles. The fine granular area (FGA) cannot be found clearly around the inclusion. Based on the evaluation of stress intensity factor ranges (ΔK) at the front of inclusion and fisheye, the interior crack growth rate (da/dN) equation can be characterized by da/dN = 2.39 × 10−21(ΔK)12.32. Corresponding to the tested specimen, the predicted maximum inclusion size is about 52.02 μm. The predicted fatigue strength corresponding to 109 cycles by using Wang’s model is slightly higher than the experimental result, but that by using Murakami’s model is relatively conservative.
Decrystallization of Crystals Using Gold “Nano-Bullets” and the Metal-Assisted and Microwave-Accelerated Decrystallization Technique
Authors: Thompson Nishone , Boone-Kukoyi Zainab , Shortt Raquel , Lansiquot Carisse , Kioko Bridgit , Bonyi Enock , Toker Salih , Ozturk Birol , Aslan Kadir
Published: October 2016

Gout is caused by the overproduction of uric acid and the inefficient metabolism of dietary purines in humans. Current treatments of gout, which include anti-inflammatory drugs, cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors, and systemic glucocorticoids, have harmful side-effects. Our research laboratory has recently introduced an innovative approach for the decrystallization of biological and chemical crystals using the Metal-Assisted and Microwave-Accelerated Evaporative Decrystallization (MAMAD) technique. In the MAMAD technique, microwave energy is used to heat and activate gold nanoparticles that behave as “nano-bullets” to rapidly disrupt the crystal structure of biological crystals placed on planar surfaces. In this study, crystals of various sizes and compositions were studied as models for tophaceous gout at different stages (i.e., uric acid as small crystals (~10–100 μm) and l-alanine as medium (~300 μm) and large crystals (~4400 μm). Our results showed that the use of the MAMAD technique resulted in the reduction of the size and number of uric acid and l-alanine crystals up to >40% when exposed to intermittent microwave heating (up to 20 W power at 8 GHz) in the presence of 20 nm gold nanoparticles up to 120 s. This study demonstrates that the MAMAD technique can be potentially used as an alternative therapeutic method for the treatment of gout by effective decrystallization of large crystals, similar in size to those that often occur in gout.
Renal Protective Effects of 17β-Estradiol on Mice with Acute Aristolochic Acid Nephropathy
Authors: Shi Min , Ma Liang , Zhou Li , Fu Ping
Published: October 2016

Aristolochic acid nephropathy (AAN) is a progressive kidney disease caused by a Chinese herb containing aristolochic acid. Excessive death of renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) characterized the acute phase of AAN. Therapies for acute AAN were limited, such as steroids and angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs)/angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs). It was interesting that, in acute AAN, female patients showed relative slower progression to renal failure than males. In a previous study, female hormone 17β-estradiol (E2) was found to attenuate renal ischemia-reperfusion injury. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the potential protective role of E2 in acute AAN. Compared with male C57BL/6 mice of acute AAN, lower serum creatinine (SCr) and less renal injury, together with RTEC apoptosis in females, were found. Treatment with E2 in male AAN mice reduced SCr levels and attenuated renal tubular injury and RTEC apoptosis. In the mice kidney tissue and human renal proximal tubule cells (HK-2 cells), E2 both attenuated AA-induced cell apoptosis and downregulated the expression of phosphor-p53 (Ser15), p53, and cleaved-caspase-3. This study highlights that E2 exhibited protective effects on the renal injury of acute AAN in male mice by reducing RTEC apoptosis, which might be related to inhibiting the p53 signaling pathway.
Oxidation of CO and Methanol on Pd-Ni Catalysts Supported on Different Chemically-Treated Carbon Nanofibers
Authors: Calderón Juan , Rios Ráfales Miguel , Nieto-Monge María , Pardo Juan , Moliner Rafael , Lázaro María
Published: October 2016

In this work, palladium-nickel nanoparticles supported on carbon nanofibers were synthesized, with metal contents close to 25 wt % and Pd:Ni atomic ratios near to 1:2. These catalysts were previously studied in order to determine their activity toward the oxygen reduction reaction. Before the deposition of metals, the carbon nanofibers were chemically treated in order to generate oxygen and nitrogen groups on their surface. Transmission electron microscopy analysis (TEM) images revealed particle diameters between 3 and 4 nm, overcoming the sizes observed for the nanoparticles supported on carbon black (catalyst Pd-Ni CB 1:2). From the CO oxidation at different temperatures, the activation energy Eact for this reaction was determined. These values indicated a high tolerance of the catalysts toward the CO poisoning, especially in the case of the catalysts supported on the non-chemically treated carbon nanofibers. On the other hand, apparent activation energy Eap for the methanol oxidation was also determined finding—as a rate determining step—the COads diffusion to the OHads for the catalysts supported on carbon nanofibers. The results here presented showed that the surface functional groups only play a role in the obtaining of lower particle sizes, which is an important factor in the obtaining of low CO oxidation activation energies.
The Effect of Vegan Protein-Based Diets on Metabolic Parameters, Expressions of Adiponectin and Its Receptors in Wistar Rats
Authors: Chen Jie-Hua , Song Jia , Chen Yan , Ding Qiang , Peng Anfang , Mao Limei
Published: October 2016

Vegan protein-based diet has attracted increasing interest in the prevention of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Meanwhile, adiponectin has become a highly potential molecular target in the prevention of MetS. Our study will identify a potential vegan protein diet for the prevention of MetS using rat models. Thirty-six Wistar rats were randomly assigned into three groups and given diets containing one of the following proteins for 12 weeks: casein (CAS, control diet), soy protein (SOY), and gluten-soy mixed protein (GSM). Changes in metabolic parameters as well as the expressions of adiponectin and its receptors were identified. Compared to CAS diet, both SOY and GSM diets led to decreases in blood total cholesterol and triglycerides, but only GSM diet led to an increase in HDL-cholesterol; no marked difference was observed in blood glucose in all three groups; HOMA-IR was found lower only in SOY group. Among groups, the order of serum adiponectin level was found as GSM > SOY > CAS. Similar order pattern was also observed in expression of adiponectin in adipose tissue and AdipoR1 mRNA in skeletal muscle. Our results suggested for the first time that, besides SOY diet, GSM diet could also be a possible substitute of animal protein to prevent MetS.
Properties of Gluten Intolerance: Gluten Structure, Evolution, Pathogenicity and Detoxification Capabilities
Authors: Balakireva Anastasia , Zamyatnin Andrey
Published: October 2016

Theterm gluten intolerance may refer to three types of human disorders: autoimmune celiac disease (CD), allergy to wheat and non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). Gluten is a mixture of prolamin proteins present mostly in wheat, but also in barley, rye and oat. Gluten can be subdivided into three major groups: S-rich, S-poor and high molecular weight proteins. Prolamins within the groups possess similar structures and properties. All gluten proteins are evolutionarily connected and share the same ancestral origin. Gluten proteins are highly resistant to hydrolysis mediated by proteases of the human gastrointestinal tract. It results in emergence of pathogenic peptides, which cause CD and allergy in genetically predisposed people. There is a hierarchy of peptide toxicity and peptide recognition by T cells. Nowadays, there are several ways to detoxify gluten peptides: the most common is gluten-free diet (GFD), which has proved its effectiveness; prevention programs, enzymatic therapy, correction of gluten pathogenicity pathways and genetically modified grains with reduced immunotoxicity. A deep understanding of gluten intolerance underlying mechanisms and detailed knowledge of gluten properties may lead to the emergence of novel effective approaches for treatment of gluten-related disorders.
Maternal Betaine Supplementation throughout Gestation and Lactation Modifies Hepatic Cholesterol Metabolic Genes in Weaning Piglets via AMPK/LXR-Mediated Pathway and Histone Modification
Authors: Cai Demin , Yuan Mengjie , Liu Haoyu , Pan Shifeng , Ma Wenqiang , Hong Jian , Zhao Ruqian
Published: October 2016

Betaine serves as an animal and human nutrient which has been heavily investigated in glucose and lipid metabolic regulation, yet the underlying mechanisms are still elusive. In this study, feeding sows with betaine-supplemented diets during pregnancy and lactation increased cholesterol content and low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI) gene expression, but decreasing bile acids content and cholesterol-7a-hydroxylase (CYP7a1) expression in the liver of weaning piglets. This was associated with the significantly elevated serum betaine and methionine levels and hepatic S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) and S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) content. Concurrently, the hepatic nuclear transcription factor liver X receptor LXR was downregulated along with activated signal protein AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Moreover, a chromatin immunoprecipitation assay showed lower LXR binding on CYP7a1 gene promoter and more enriched activation histone marker H3K4me3 on LDLR and SR-BI promoters. These results suggest that gestational and lactational betaine supplementation modulates hepatic gene expression involved in cholesterol metabolism via an AMPK/LXR pathway and histone modification in the weaning offspring.
Green Extraction from Pomegranate Marcs for the Production of Functional Foods and Cosmetics
Authors: Boggia Raffaella , Turrini Federica , Villa Carla , Lacapra Chiara , Zunin Paola , Parodi Brunella
Published: October 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of retrieving polyphenolic antioxidants directly from wet pomegranate marcs: the fresh by-products obtained after pomegranate juice processing. These by-products mainly consist of internal membranes (endocarp) and aril residues. Even if they are still edible, they are usually discharged during juice production and, thus, they represent a great challenge in an eco-sustainable industrial context. Green technologies, such as ultrasound assisted extraction (UAE) and microwave assisted extraction (MAE), have been employed to convert these organic residues into recycled products with high added value. UAE and MAE were used both in parallel and in series in order to make a comparison and to ensure exhaustive extractions, respectively. Water, as an environmentally friendly extraction solvent, has been employed. The results were compared with those ones coming from a conventional extraction. The most promising extract, in terms of total polyphenol yield and radical scavenging activity, has been tested both as a potential natural additive and as a functional ingredient after its incorporation in a real food model and in a real cosmetic matrix, respectively. This study represents a proposal to the agro-alimentary sector given the general need of environmental “responsible care”.
Preparation and Characterization of High Surface Area Activated Carbon Fibers from Lignin
Authors: Lin Jian , Zhao Guangjie
Published: October 2016

Activated carbon fibers (ACFs) were successfully prepared from softwood lignin, which was isolated with polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG-400) as a solvolysis reagent, by water steam activation. The pore characterization and adsorption property of ACFs were investigated. The results showed that all the ACFs with more micropores exhibited high specific surface area and total pore volume which increased with the activation time prolonging; the highest ones were around 3100 m2/g and 1.5 mL/g, respectively. The specific surface area and total pore volume were much larger than those of other types of lignin-based ACFs and activated charcoal. Besides, with increasing activation time, the amount of graphitic carbon, which was the main compound on the surface of ACFs, decreased, while the amount of functional groups containing C–O slightly increased. In addition, the adsorption capacity of ACFs for methylene blue was highly increased as the activation time increased. Accordingly, lignin isolated with PEG is a promising precursor for ACF production.
Algorithms for a Single Hormone Closed-Loop Artificial Pancreas: Challenges Pertinent to Chemical Process Operations and Control
Authors: Bequette B. , Cameron Faye , Baysal Nihat , Howsmon Daniel , Buckingham Bruce , Maahs David , Levy Carol
Published: October 2016

The development of a closed-loop artificial pancreas to regulate the blood glucose concentration of individuals with type 1 diabetes has been a focused area of research for over 50 years, with rapid progress during the past decade. The daily control challenges faced by someone with type 1 diabetes include asymmetric objectives and risks, and one-sided manipulated input action with frequent relatively fast disturbances. The major automation steps toward a closed-loop artificial pancreas include (i) monitoring and overnight alarms for hypoglycemia (low blood glucose); (ii) overnight low glucose suspend (LGS) systems to prevent hypoglycemia; and (iii) fully closed-loop systems that adjust insulin (and perhaps glucagon) to maintain desired blood glucose levels day and night. We focus on the steps that we used to develop and test a probabilistic, risk-based, model predictive control strategy for a fully closed-loop artificial pancreas. We complete the paper by discussing ramifications of lessons learned for chemical process systems applications.
The Tasks of the Crowd: A Typology of Tasks in Geographic Information Crowdsourcing and a Case Study in Humanitarian Mapping
Authors: Albuquerque João , Herfort Benjamin , Eckle Melanie
Published: October 2016

In the past few years, volunteers have produced geographic information of different kinds, using a variety of different crowdsourcing platforms, within a broad range of contexts. However, there is still a lack of clarity about the specific types of tasks that volunteers can perform for deriving geographic information from remotely sensed imagery, and how the quality of the produced information can be assessed for particular task types. To fill this gap, we analyse the existing literature and propose a typology of tasks in geographic information crowdsourcing, which distinguishes between classification, digitisation and conflation tasks. We then present a case study related to the “Missing Maps” project aimed at crowdsourced classification to support humanitarian aid. We use our typology to distinguish between the different types of crowdsourced tasks in the project and choose classification tasks related to identifying roads and settlements for an evaluation of the crowdsourced classification. This evaluation shows that the volunteers achieved a satisfactory overall performance (accuracy: 89%; sensitivity: 73%; and precision: 89%). We also analyse different factors that could influence the performance, concluding that volunteers were more likely to incorrectly classify tasks with small objects. Furthermore, agreement among volunteers was shown to be a very good predictor of the reliability of crowdsourced classification: tasks with the highest agreement level were 41 times more probable to be correctly classified by volunteers. The results thus show that the crowdsourced classification of remotely sensed imagery is able to generate geographic information about human settlements with a high level of quality. This study also makes clear the different sophistication levels of tasks that can be performed by volunteers and reveals some factors that may have an impact on their performance.
An Effective Correction Method for Seriously Oblique Remote Sensing Images Based on Multi-View Simulation and a Piecewise Model
Authors: Wang Chunyuan , Liu Xiang , Zhao Xiaoli , Wang Yongqi
Published: October 2016

Conventional correction approaches are unsuitable for effectively correcting remote sensing images acquired in the seriously oblique condition which has severe distortions and resolution disparity. Considering that the extraction of control points (CPs) and the parameter estimation of the correction model play important roles in correction accuracy, this paper introduces an effective correction method for large angle (LA) images. Firstly, a new CP extraction algorithm is proposed based on multi-view simulation (MVS) to ensure the effective matching of CP pairs between the reference image and the LA image. Then, a new piecewise correction algorithm is advanced with the optimized CPs, where a concept of distribution measurement (DM) is introduced to quantify the CPs distribution. The whole image is partitioned into contiguous subparts which are corrected by different correction formulae to guarantee the accuracy of each subpart. The extensive experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method significantly outperforms conventional approaches.