bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sistema Autônomo de Iluminação Pública de Alta Eficiência Baseado em LEDs e Energia Solar
Authors: Schuch Luciano , Costa Marco A. Dalla , Rech Cassiano , Michels Leandro , Costa Guilherme H. , Santos Anderson S. dos
Published: October 2018

Este artigo apresenta um sistema autônomo de iluminação pública baseado em energia solar como fonte primária de energia, baterias como fonte secundária e diodos emissores de luz (LED) como fonte luminosa. Esse sistema é apresentado como uma alternativa de iluminação para locais remotos, tais como rodovias, trevos, localidades isoladas e pontos turísticos. O sistema apresenta alta eficiência porque todos os estágios de conversão de energia operam com corrente contínua, sem a necessidade de um inversor comumente utilizado em sistemas de iluminação pública convencionais, os quais utilizam lâmpadas de descarga. O projeto da luminária de LEDs é realizado com o objetivo de gerar níveis de iluminação equivalentes a uma lâmpada de vapor de sódio de alta pressão (HPS) de 70 W. Esse projeto leva em consideração a resposta do olho humano para uma condição escotópica. O circuito de acionamento dos LEDs utiliza uma malha de corrente e o carregador de baterias utiliza três malhas distintas: rastreamento da máxima potência do painel solar, controle de corrente e controle de tensão. O modo de controle depende do estado das baterias (carregadas/ descarregadas) e do nível da irradiação solar. Resultados experimentais em malha fechada do circuito de acionamento dos LEDs e do carregador de baterias são apresentados para comprovar o funcionamento do sistema proposto.
A Robust H2 State Feedback Controller Applied To Boost Converters
Authors: Montagner Vinícius F. , Jr. Luiz A. Maccari , Pinheiro Humberto , Oliveira Ricardo C. L. F.
Published: October 2018

This paper proposes the design and the experimental validation of a robust H2 control technique applied to boost converters. Differently from conventional techniques, the proposed controller has a certificate of stability and performance under arbitrary parameter variations. The design procedure adopts a linearized model with a polytopic structure for the converter affected by time-varying parameters. An optimal H2 state feedback controller (under quadratic stability) is synthesized using convex optimization based on linear matrix inequalities. This framework allows the determination of the control gains in a very fast way, using a finite set of inequalities to obtain a controller that ensures robust stability and performance for the entire set of uncertain parameters. An experimental setup of a boost converter is used to validate the controller designed here. The input voltage, the operating point duty cycle and the load are considered as arbitrarily time-varying uncertain parameters. The synthesized control gains produce good simulated and experimental results when compared to those obtained with a classical strategy based on PI controllers, without introducing additional implementation cost. The experimental validation proves the viability of practical application of this important robust control technique for boost converters.
Conversor Trifásico Com Cargas Ressonantes Para Geração De Ozônio
Authors: Bonaldo Jakson Paulo , Pomilio José A. , Vendrusculo Edson A.
Published: October 2018

Este trabalho apresenta um conversor ressonante trifásico alimentando um transformador de alta tensão utilizado para geração de ozônio por descarga eletrostática. Devido à dispersão dos parâmetros dos transformadores e das células geradoras de ozônio, não se torna viável a simples paralelização para que haja um aumento de produção. Uma nova estrutura é introduzida para equalizar a potência nos transformadores. A freqüência de chaveamento do conversor é ajustada próxima e acima da freqüência de ressonância série entre a indutância de dispersão do transformador e a capacitância equivalente referida ao primário, de modo a obter comutações suaves. É proposta uma técnica para equalizar a potência, bem como evitar a saturação dos transformadores. Simulações e resultados experimentais validam a estrutura e técnicas propostas.
Formulation of hypotonic electrolyte re-hydration whey drinks from paneer and cheese whey
Authors: Pushpa B. P. , Kempanna C. , Murthy Narasimha
Published: October 2018

In the present study, formulation of electrolyte drink from paneer and cheese whey was done by enzymatic hydrolysis of lactose to simple sugars and adjusting the salt levels to meet the World Health Organization requirements (245 mOsm/L) for Oral Rehydration Salt. Complete hydrolysis of lactose was achieved in whey using Lactozyme enzyme (3000L) used at level of 2 ml/L and incubated at 40°C for 2 h at neutral pH. Lactose hydrolyzed whey was diluted (1:2.3, v/v) using potable quality demineralised water (Total dissolved solids: 60 ppm) to achieve reduction in osmolarity of 75 mosm/l. The salt concentration was adjusted by adding 3.25 g sodium chloride and 0.8 g potassium chloride for paneer whey (per L) and 2.5 g sodium chloride, 0.9 g of potassium chloride and 1.5 g of trisodium citrate for cheese whey (per L) to meet sodium, potassium and citrate levels in the resultant whey drink.
AQUAPONIA: SISTEMA QUE INTEGRA PRODU��O DE PEIXES COM PRODU��O DE VEGETAIS DE FORMA SUSTENT�VEL
Authors: S�tiro Thaise Mota , Xavier Costa Ramos Neto K�lvia , Delprete S�mila Esteves
Published: October 2018

A aquaponia � uma atividade integrada e colaborativa. � a aquicultura convencional associada � hidroponia, ocorrendo verdadeira simbiose entre organismos aqu�ticos e plantas. Esta t�cnica pode ser considerada ecologicamente correta, pois a �gua da aquicultura alimenta o sistema hidrop�nico, onde os subprodutos s�o quebrados por bact�rias nitrificantes em nitritos e depois nitratos, os quais ser�o utilizados pelas plantas como nutrientes. Diversas esp�cies de peixes adaptam-se bem ao sistema e podem ser cultivadas em aquaponia. Contudo, quais s�o as principais esp�cies de peixes utilizadas neste sistema, as vantagens e os desafios? Desta forma, buscou-se por meio desta pesquisa bibliogr�fica apresentar as principais esp�cies de peixes produzidas, as diversas vantagens que este sistema oferece, bem como, os principais desafios da atividade descritos na literatura cient�fica, visto ser uma atividade relativamente nova e com poucos estudos no Brasil. A principal esp�cie utilizada � a til�pia, por ser bastante resistente e com pacote tecnol�gico difundido no Brasil e no mundo. Uma das principais vantagens do sistema aquap�nico � a economia de �gua, pois consiste num sistema de recircula��o total da �gua. Dentre os desafios da aquaponia no Brasil, tem-se a depend�ncia de energia el�trica. Nesse contexto, entre in�meras vantagens e benef�cios da aquaponia, este sistema torna a t�cnica inovadora, al�m de se mostrar solu��o para os Estados que sofrem com a escassez h�drica.
CRIT�RIOS PARA FORNECIMENTO DE PESCADO AO EX�RCITO BRASILEIRO NA SEGUNDA REGI�O MILITAR: ESTUDO DE CASO
Authors: Martins Werner Souza , Balian Simone De Carvalho
Published: October 2018

O objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar e descrever os crit�rios desej�veis para fornecedores de pescado ao Ex�rcito Brasileiro. Os resultados demonstraram que os crit�rios e seus respectivos valores de import�ncia (pesos) foram para o 1� n�vel: pre�o (31,3%), capacidade de entrega (19,7%), CNPJ atrelado ao SIF (19,4%), sistema de autocontrole APPCC (14,8%), localiza��o geogr�fica (7,2%), p�s venda (4,3%), responsabilidade social (3%); segundo n�vel: respeitar prazos (31,5%), equipamento de congelamento (28,2%), ISO 22000 (18,7%), rastreabilidade (10,8), embalagem e rotulagem (6,8), possibilidade de auditoria (3,8); terceiro n�vel: especifica��o de nome cient�fico (47,9%), rastreabilidade total (40,5%), rastreabilidade parcial (11,5%). O crit�rio CNPJ atrelado ao SIF foi um resultado obtido e que n�o consta na bibliografia dispon�vel, configurando como uma contribui��o do estudo para o tema.
Implementación de principios de manufactura esbelta a actividades logísticas: un caso de estudio en la industria maderera
Authors: Fallas-Valverde Paula , Quesada Henry J. , Madrigal -Sánchez Johanna
Published: October 2018

La integración entre distintos elementos de un mapa de la cadena de valor puede ser una tarea dificil cuando distintas operaciones en una empresa, dentro y fuera, no están sincronizadas. Una herramienta innovadora que permite medir el desmpeño, utilizando las fortalezas del mapa de la cadena de valor, fue desarollada para favorecer la sincronización. Esta herramienta se enfoca en proveer una visión integral de las actividades logísticas con el objetivo de que todos los responsables de los procesos operacionales en la cadena de valor mantengan un mismo nivel de conocimiento en cuanto a manufactura esbelta, cumplimento y servicio al cliente. Este estudio se realizó para la industria de madera de casas prefabricadas de los Estados Unidos y consistió en evaluar los procesos de logística por medio de la aplicación de una herramienta de lógistica esbelta. La aplicación de esta herramienta permitió identificar un desperdicio excesivo en la cadena de abstecimiento, en el inventario. Específicamente, se propuso un modelo de pedido de cantidad ecónomica (EOQ, por su nombre en inglés). Este resultó en una reducción del costo de la cadena de abstecimento de $220,254.75 en un año. El costo de mantenimento del inventario se redujo en un 42%. En conclusión, la implementación de la herramientas de pensamiento esbelto fue efectiva para identificar oportunidades de mejora en operaciones lógisticas, y se puede extender a diversas industrias.
Porto das Barcas e galpões portuários em Parnaíba [PI]: memória, patrimônio e identidade
Authors: Sampaio Isis Meireles Rodrigues , Magalhaes Aracelly Moreira
Published: October 2018

O presente trabalho aborda a dimensão material e imaterial do patrimônio industrial da cidade de Parnaíba, localizada na região litorânea do Estado do Piauí́, nordeste do Brasil. Possui como objeto de estudo o espaço delimitado pelo Conjunto do Porto das Barcas e galpões Portuários, parte integrante do Conjunto Histórico e paisagístico de Parnaíba, tombando pelo Instituto do Patrimônio Histórico e Artístico Nacional, IPHAN, no ano de 2008.  O objetivo geral é compreender a relação entre espaço, democracia, cultura, memória e identidade na produção e gestão do patrimônio histórico urbano.  A metodologia utilizada baseia-se na pesquisa documental, pesquisa histórica e pesquisa arquitetônica. Busca-se refletir, de maneira pluridiciplinar, sobre patrimônio, apropriação social e democracia a partir de uma perspectiva mais ampla, simultaneamente municipal e histórica, social e política.  A dissolução do patrimônio urbano impacta diretamente nos valores comuns de uma sociedade O presente trabalho justifica-se pelo pela importância que o ambiente construído possui para o desenvolvimento de determinada sociedade. Procura-se uma melhor compreensão propiciada pelo conhecimento histórico acerca do patrimônio e das relações de memória e identidade de determinado local, de maneira a auxiliar no planejamento urbano contemporâneo, no fortalecimento da cultura urbana e na salvaguarda do patrimônio histórico, uma vez que a eficácia da patrimonialização e revitalização está relacionada com a preservação e salvaguarda da história e do fortalecimento da identidade de um local a partir de uma apropriação social ativa e democrática.
Rotunda de Ribeirão Vermelho: exemplo emblemático do patrimônio ferroviário brasileiro
Authors: Silva Ronaldo André Rodrigues da
Published: October 2018

A importância dos complexos ferroviários para a história brasileira compõe-se a partir do desenvolvimento econômico-industrial de meados do século XIX. Constitui-se também uma relação entre a realidade histórico-social das cidades brasileiras e os complexos ferroviários por meio do desenvolvimento de sistemas sociais ou de infraestrutura de cidades e regiões. Dentre as estruturas ferroviárias, destacam-se as rotundas ferroviárias, não somente por sua importância para os complexos ferroviários e manutenção das máquinas, mas pela grandiosidade e identidade arquitetônica. Elas, comumente, constituíram-se como um dos principais edifícios e sempre despertaram interesse, desde sua centralidade nas oficinas à admiração das pessoas por seu tamanho, estrutura e complexidade o que as caracterizaria como elementos emblemáticos. A partir dessas ideias, o trabalho busca apresentar a realidade de um desses exemplares, a rotunda ferroviária de Ribeirão Vermelho, localizada na cidade homônima em Minas Gerais (Brasil).  Propõe-se uma reflexão a partir do exemplo e da realidade dessa estrutura ferroviária que reflete, em grande parte, o complexo conjunto de elementos ferroviários no Brasil. Há aquelas que mantêm as suas funções, foram restauradas ou reutilizadas, mas também outras que foram transformadas em equipamentos sociais, e, negativamente, as abandonadas. Ao final, avaliam-se os diversos exemplos de rotundas ferroviárias, desde a reutilização e reconversão ao abandono e arruinamento. Por fim, a reflexão sobre a arquitetura ferroviária, seu aspecto singular e emblemático e sua importância para a memória e a história devem ser entendidos de acordo com as múltiplas e interdisciplinares interpretações acerca do patrimônio cultural e industrial e da memória histórica e social.
Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) of Differentially Expressed Genes in Green Tea against Methionine-Choline Deficient Diet in High-Fat Patients in the Development of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Authors: Saha Sarbojoy , Ahammad Ishtiaque , Barmon Shampa
Published: October 2018

The most common liver disorder nowadays is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) and it is a progressive disease that rises in severity from steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis(NASH), fibrosis and cirrhosis to increase risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma. It is a cause of great concern as there is an estimated seventy million Americans who are currently affected by NAFLD, and this is expected to only increase because of its association with obesity and diabetes and also a lack of therapies to keep its development and progression in check. In this particular study we performed a gene set enrichment analysis(GSEA) of differentially expressed genes in a green tea against methionine-choline deficient diet in high-fat patients in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD). The downregulated genes were used to perform an enrichment analysis and in the ARCHS4 TFs Coexpression database the most significant gene was found to be KLF5_human_tf_ARCHS4_coexpression. In the ARCHS4 Kinases Coexpression pathway database STYK1_human_kinase_ARCHS4 Coexpression was found to be the most significant gene. And finally for the upregulated genes a similar enrichment analysis was performed and in the humancy database γ-linolenate biosynthesis_Homo sapiens_PWY-6000 gene was discovered to be the most significant one. This study has used bioinformatics tools and the Enrichr software to perform a comparative analysis of differentially expressed gene sets for high-fat patients having a diet consisting of green tea against a methionine-choline deficient diet. Green tea is known to contain several antioxidants and polyphenols which provide protection against many liver diseases such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD). The present study simply tries to build awareness of this to the general public and allow them to learn more about certain diets which have protective effects against liver diseases. Hopefully by implementing these in their daily lifestyles the public can gain some form of protection against these types of liver disorders.
Detailed Modeling of the Direct Reduction of Iron Ore in a Shaft Furnace
Authors: Hamadeh Hamzeh , Mirgaux Olivier , Patisson Fabrice
Published: October 2018

This paper addresses the modeling of the iron ore direct reduction process, a process likely to reduce CO2 emissions from the steel industry. The shaft furnace is divided into three sections (reduction, transition, and cooling), and the model is two-dimensional (cylindrical geometry for the upper sections and conical geometry for the lower one), to correctly describe the lateral gas feed and cooling gas outlet. This model relies on a detailed description of the main physical–chemical and thermal phenomena, using a multi-scale approach. The moving bed is assumed to be comprised of pellets of grains and crystallites. We also take into account eight heterogeneous and two homogeneous chemical reactions. The local mass, energy, and momentum balances are numerically solved, using the finite volume method. This model was successfully validated by simulating the shaft furnaces of two direct reduction plants of different capacities. The calculated results reveal the detailed interior behavior of the shaft furnace operation. Eight different zones can be distinguished, according to their predominant thermal and reaction characteristics. An important finding is the presence of a central zone of lesser temperature and conversion.
Preparation of Renewable Bio-Polyols from Two Species of Colliguaja for Rigid Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Abril-Milán Diana , Valdés Oscar , Mirabal-Gallardo Yaneris , F. de la Torre Alexander , Bustamante Carlos , Contreras Jorge
Published: October 2018

In this study we investigated the potential of two non-edible oil extracts from seeds of Colliguaya Integerrima (CIO) and Colliguaja Salicifolia (CSO) to use as a renewable source for polyols and eventually polyurethane foams or biodiesel. For this purpose, two novel polyols from the aforementioned oils were obtained in a one-single step reaction using a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and acetic acid. The polyol derivatives obtained from the two studied oils were characterized by spectral (FT-IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR), physico-chemical (e.g. chromatographic analysis, acid value, oxidizability values, iodine value, peroxide value, saponification number, kinematic viscosity, theorical molecular weights, density, hydroxyl number and hydroxyl functionality) and thermal (TGA) analyses according to standard methods. Physico-chemical results revealed that all parameters, with the exception of the iodine value, were higher for bio-polyols (CSP and CIP polyols) compared to the starting oils. The NMR, TGA and FT-IR analyses demonstrated the formation of polyols. Finally, the OH functionality values for CIP and CSP polyols were 4.50 and 5.00, respectively. This result indicated the possible used of CIP and CSP polyols as a raw material for the preparation of polyurethane rigid foams.
Genome-wide transcriptomic analysis reveals insights into the response to Citrus bark cracking viroid (CBCVd) in hop (Humulus lupulus L.)
Authors: Mishra Ajay Kumar , Kumar Atul , Mishra Deepti , Nath Vishnu Sukumari , Jakse Jernej , Kocábek Tomáš , Killi Uday Kumar , Morina Filis , Matoušek Jaroslav
Published: October 2018

Viroids are smallest pathogen that consist of non-capsidated, single-stranded non-coding RNA replicons and exploits host factors for their replication and propagation. The severe stunting disease caused by Citrus bark cracking viroid (CBCVd) is a serious threat, which spread rapidly within hop gardens. In this study, we employed comprehensive transcriptome analyses to dissect host-viroid interactions and identify gene expression changes associated with disease development in hop. Our analysis revealed that CBCVd-infection resulted in the massive modulation of activity of over 2000 genes. Expression of genes associated with plant immune responses (protein kinase and mitogen-activated protein kinase), hypersensitive responses, phytohormone signaling pathways, photosynthesis, pigment metabolism, protein metabolism, sugar metabolism and modification and others were altered, which could be attributed to systemic symptom development upon CBCVd-infection in hop. In addition, genes encoding RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, pathogenesis-related protein, chitinase as well as those related to basal defense responses were up-regulated. The expression levels of several genes identified from RNA sequencing analysis were confirmed by qRT-PCR. Our systematic comprehensive CBCVd-responsive transcriptome analysis provides a better understanding and insights into complex viroid-hop plant interaction. This information will assist further in the development of future measures for the prevention of CBCVd spread in hop fields.
Normal Bases on Galois Ring Extensions
Authors: Aixian Zhang , Keqin Feng
Published: October 2018

In this paper we study the normal bases for Galois ring extension ${{R}} / {Z}_{p^r}$ where ${R}$ = ${GR}$(pr, n). We present a criterion on normal basis for ${{R}} / {Z}_{p^r}$ and reduce this problem to one of finite field extension $\overline{R} / \overline{Z}_{p^r}=F_{q} / F_{p}  (q=p^n)$ by Theorem 1. We determine all optimal normal bases for Galois ring extension.
Assessing Radiometric Correction Approaches for Multi-Spectral UAS Imagery for Horticultural Applications
Authors: Tu Yu-Hsuan , Phinn Stuart , Johansen Kasper , Robson Andrew
Published: October 2018

UAS-based multi-spectral imagery is becoming increasingly popular for the improved monitoring and managing of various horticultural crops. However, for UAS data to be used as an industry standard for assessing tree structure and condition as well as production parameters, it is imperative that the appropriate data collection and pre-processing protocols are established to enable multi-temporal comparison. There are several UAS-based radiometric correction methods commonly used for precision agricultural purposes. However, their relative accuracies have not been assessed for data acquired in complex horticultural environments. This study assessed the variations in estimated surface reflectance values of different radiometric corrections applied to multi-spectral UAS imagery acquired in both avocado and banana orchards. We found that inaccurate calibration panel measurements, inaccurate signal-to-reflectance conversion, and high variation in geometry between illumination, surface, and sensor viewing produced significant radiometric variations in at-surface reflectance estimates. Potential solutions to address these limitations included appropriate panel deployment, site-specific sensor calibration, and appropriate BRDF correction. Future UAS based horticultural crop monitoring can benefit from the proposed solutions to radiometric corrections to ensure they are using comparable image-based maps of multi-temporal biophysical properties.
An Experimental Investigation of the Impact of Electromagnetic Radiations Emitted from Mobile Phone on General Health, pH, Flow Rate and Electrolytes Concentrations of Saliva in Female Adults
Authors: Alattar Etimad , Elwasife Khitam , Radwan Eqbal , Abu Warda Hadeer , Abujami Mohammed
Published: October 2018

During the recent years, there has been a tremendous increase in use of mobile phones which resulted in an increase of the exposure to electromagnetic radiations in our life. Human saliva is considered as a potential source of biomarkers to monitor changes that occur under pathological conditions. The main objective of the current experiment was to determine the effect of mobile phone radiation on general health, electrolytes and salivary function among Islamic University students who use mobile phones. A questionnaire was designed and applied to 167 healthy and 36 deaf female students to select cases whose meeting the inclusion criteria. A total of 103 students who met the inclusion criteria were included to investigate the influence of mobile phone radiations on their general health. For assessment of salivary parameters, a total of 55 students were chosen and classified into three groups. Group I was the control group, which included 17 deaf students who did not use the mobile phone at all. Group II was healthy students who have mobile phone for less than 5 years. Group III was healthy students who have mobile phone for 5 years or more. Descriptive data that included mean, standard deviation, and percentages was calculated for each group. Multiple group comparisons were made by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey test for pairwise comparisons. Categorical data were analyzed by Chi square (χ2) test. For all the tests, a P value of 0.05 or less was considered for statistical significance. The results showed that the participants who use mobile phone had several problems in their health including dry mouth, bad odor from mouth, drooling of saliva, as well as ear and eye pain. The majority of the participants who use mobile phone complained of headache, anxiety, insomnia and forgetfulness as compared to deaf participants. Also, the study showed that there was no significant difference between salivary pH in all tested groups. Regarding to salivary flow rate, the differences were no significant in all tested groups. In addition, this study has also shown that there was significant difference between the salivary Na+ and K+ levels of the three groups. Salivary level of Na+ and K+ were significantly lower in mobile phone users when compared to non users of mobile phone.
Fullerene Aggregation in Thin Films of Polymer Blends for Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Lindqvist Camilla , Moons Ellen , van Stam Jan
Published: October 2018

We report on the effects of the film morphology on the fluorescence spectra for a thin film including a quinoxaline-based co-polymer (TQ1) and a fullerene derivative (PC70BM). The ratio between the polymer and the fullerene derivative, as well as the processing solvent were varied. Beside the main emission peak at 700 nm in the fluorescence spectra of thin films of this phase-separated blend, a broad emission band is observed with a maximum at 520 - 550 nm. The intensity of this emission band decreases with an increasing degree of mixing in the film and becomes most prominent in thicker films, films with high PC70BM content, and films that were spin-coated from solvents with lower PC70BM solubility. We assign this emission band to aggregated PC70BM.
Caenorhabditis Elegans and Tenebrio Molitor - New Tools to Investigate Malassezia Species
Authors: Silva Ana Paula Rabelo , Valerio Aline Dias , Viana Roberta Oliveira , Ricoy Ana Carolina dos Santos , Johann Susana , Alves Viviane de Souza
Published: October 2018

Malassezia species are part of human commensal microbiota and is also related to diseases. Little is known about the interaction of these microorganisms with their host. Here we established two standard culture conditions for Malassezia spp. to perform infection assays using C. elegans and T. molitor. Invertebrate hosts infected by Malassezia spp. cultured in M9M resulted in higher death rate on survival assays when compared to yeasts cultured in standard Dixon medium indicating that M9M cultured Malassezia species have increased virulence. The culture and infection conditions established in this work, using invertebrate alternative models, are valuable tools to understand Malassezia-host interaction.
Mechanochemical Induced Structure Transformations in Lithium Titanates: A Detailed PXRD and 6Li MAS NMR Study
Authors: Becker Dennis , Haberkorn Robert , Kickelbick Guido
Published: October 2018

Lithium titanates are used in various applications, such as anode materials for lithium intercalation (Li4Ti5O12) or breeding materials in fusion reactors (Li2TiO3). Here, we report the formation of nano-crystalline lithium titanates by a mechanochemical approach and present a deeper insight into their structural characteristics by PXRD and solid-state NMR spectroscopy. The compounds were synthesized in a high energy planetary ball mill with varying milling parameters and different grinding tools. NaCl type Li2TiO3 (α-Li2TiO3) was formed by dry milling of lithium hydroxide with titania (rutile or anatase) and by a milling induced structure transformation of monoclinic β Li2TiO3 or spinel type Li4Ti5O12. Heating of mechanochemical prepared α Li2TiO3 induces a phase transformation to the monoclinic phase similar to hydrothermal reaction products, but a higher thermal stability was observed for the mechanochemical formed product. Microstructure and crystallographic structure were characterized by PXRD via Rietveld analysis. Detailed phase analysis shows the formation of the cubic phase from the various educts. A set of two lattice parameters for α Li2TiO3 was refined, depending on the presence of OH- during the milling process. An average crystallite size of less than 15 nm was observed for the mechanochemical generated products. The local Li environment detected by 6Li SPE MAS NMR revealed Li defects in the form of tetrahedral instead of octahedral site occupation. Subsequent adjustment of the structural model for Rietveld refinement leads to better fits, supporting this interpretation.
Age- and Genotype-Specific Effects of the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor Lisinopril on Mitochondrial and Metabolic Parameters in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Ederer Karis A. , Jin Kelly , Bouslog Sarah , Wang Lu , Gorman Gregory S. , Rowe Glenn C. , Abadir Peter , Raftery Daniel , Moellering Douglas , Promislow Daniel , Jumbo-Lucioni Patricia , De Luca Maria
Published: October 2018

The angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is a peptidase that is involved in the synthesis of Angiotensin II, the bioactive component of the renin-angiotensin system. A growing body of literature argues for a beneficial impact of ACE inhibitors (ACEi) on age-associated metabolic disorders, mediated by cellular changes in reactive oxygen species (ROS) that improve mitochondrial function. Yet, our understanding of the relationship between ACEi therapy and metabolic parameters is limited. Here, we used three genetically diverse strains of Drosophila melanogaster to show that Lisinopril treatment reduces thoracic ROS levels and mitochondrial respiration in young flies, and increases mitochondrial content in middle-aged flies. Using untargeted metabolomics analysis, we also showed that Lisinopril perturbs the thoracic metabolic network structure by affecting metabolic pathways involved in glycogen degradation, glycolysis, and mevalonate metabolism. The Lisinopril-induced effects on mitochondrial and metabolic parameters, however, are genotype-specific and likely reflect the drug’s impact on nutrient-dependent fitness traits. Accordingly, we found that Lisinopril negatively affects survival under nutrient starvation, an effect that can be rescued by genotype and age in a manner that partially mirrors the drug-induced changes in mitochondrial respiration. In conclusion, our results provide novel and important insights into the role of ACEi in cellular metabolism.
Dynamic Measurements with the Bicone Interfacial Shear Rheometer: Numerical Bench-Marking of Flow Field Based Data Processing
Authors: Sánchez-Puga Pablo , Tajuelo Rodríguez Javier , Pastor Juan Manuel , Rubio Miguel Ángel
Published: October 2018

Flow field based methods are becoming increasingly popular for the analysis of interfacial shear rheology data. Such methods take properly into account the subphase drag by solving the Navier-Stokes equations for the bulk phases flows, together with the Boussinesq-Scriven boundary condition at the fluid-fluid interface, and the probe equation of motion. Such methods have been successfully implemented at the double wall-ring (DWR), the magnetic rod (MR), and the bicone interfacial shear rheometers. However, a study of the errors introduced directly by the numerical processing is still lacking. Here we report on a study of the errors introduced exclusively by the numerical procedure corresponding to the bicone geometry at an air-water interface. In our study we directly input a preset the value of the complex interfacial viscosity and we numerically obtain the corresponding flow field and the complex amplitude ratio for the probe motion. Then we use the standard iterative procedure to obtain the calculated complex viscosity value. A detailed comparison of the set and calculated complex viscosity values is made upon changing different parameters such as real and imaginary parts of the complex interfacial viscosity and frequency. The observed discrepancies yield a detailed landscape of the numerically introduced errors.
Geriatric Medicine in Malaysia- Riding the Wave of Political Change
Authors: Tan Maw Pin , Kamaruzzaman Shahrul B , Poi Philip J H
Published: October 2018

Malaysia became the centre of international attention when it democratically removed a semi-authoritarian government of 62 years during its 14th general election this year. This electoral success has provided geriatric medicine in Malaysia with the unexpected ageing icon in the oldest prime minister in the world. Political change has led to a wave of optimism for the expansion of geriatric services in Malaysia, which has met with numerous challenges in the last two decades. The number of geriatrics specialists and services had already begun expanding under the previous government. However, existing geriatricians will need to reassess the landscape of delivery and access of care in our rapidly growing ageing population and develop new strategies to truly expand their services. In addition to unrelenting efforts in the recruitment and training of future geriatricians, the steady expansion of the geriatric workforce should take into account the inclusion of geriatric medicine in the undergraduate training curricula of all healthcare professionals. Expansion of geriatric services will also be a cost-effective strategy to reduce the growing national healthcare budget incurred by the growing needs of an ageing population.
Advances in Precast Concrete Sandwich Panels toward Energy Efficient Structural Buildings
Authors: Mohammed Bida Sani , Nora Aznieta Abdul Aziz Farah , Saleh Jaafar Mohd , Hejazi Farzad , Nabilah Abu Bakar
Published: October 2018

Precast concrete sandwich panels (PCSP) are energy efficient building system that is achieved through an insulation layer created between the concrete wythes. The insulation layer is usually of low bearing strength material making it more applicable for non-structural building systems. Hence, shear connectors are introduced to improve its structural capacity, which subsequently degrades it thermal performance by serving as thermal bridges across the panel. This article review researches of alternative materials and methods used to improve the thermal efficiency as well as reduced the strength loss due to insulation in PCSP. The alternative materials are basalt fibre reinforced polymer (BFRP), carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP), glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP), and foam concrete which are selected due to their low thermal conductivity for use in shear connection. While thermal path method has been used to prevent the effect of thermal bridges. Although, some of these materials have successfully achieved the desirable behaviours, however, several undesirable properties such as brittleness, bond slip, the sudden crushing of the panel system, and FRP failure below its ultimate strength were observed. Hence, the practicality of the alternative materials is still questionable despite its higher cost compared to the conventional steel and concrete used in the PCSP system.
Emergence of Shear Bands in Confined Granular Systems: Singularity of the $q$-Statistics
Authors: Viallon-Galiner Léo , Combe Gaël , Richefeu Vincent , Atman Picardi Faria Allbens
Published: October 2018

The statistics of grain displacements probability distribution function (pdf) during the shear of a granular medium displays an unusual dependence with the shear increment upscaling as recently evinced [Phys. Rev. Lett.  115 238301 2015]. Basically, the pdf of grain displacements has clear nonextensive ($q$-Gaussian) features at small scales but approaches to Gaussian characteristics at large shear window scales -- the granulence effect. Here, we extend this analysis studying a larger system (more grains considered in the experimental setup) which exhibits a severe shear band fault during the macroscopic straining. We calculate the pdf of grain displacements and the dependency of the $q$-statistics with the shear increment. This analysis have shown a singular behavior of $q$ at large scales, displaying a non-monotonic dependence with the shear increment. By means of an independent image analysis, we demonstrate that this singular non-monotonicity could be associated with the emergence of a shear band within the confined system. We show that the exact point where the $q$-value inverts its tendency coincides with the emergence of a giant percolation cluster along the system, caused by the shear band. We believe that this original approach using Statistical Mechanics tools to identify shear bands can be a very useful piece to solve the complex puzzle of the rheology of dense granular systems.
Factors Underlying Racial Disparities in Sepsis Management
Authors: DiMeglio Matthew , Dubensky John , Schadt Samuel , Potdar Rashmika , Laudanski Krzysztof
Published: October 2018

Sepsis, a syndrome characterized by systemic inflammation during infection, continues to be one of the most common causes of patient mortality in hospitals across the United States. While standardized treatment protocols have been implemented, wide variability in clinical outcomes persist across racial groups. Specifically, Black and Hispanic populations are frequently associated with higher rates of morbidity and mortality in sepsis compared to the Caucasian population. While this is often attributed to systemic bias against minority groups, a growing body of literature has found patient, community, and hospital-based factors to be driving racial differences. In this article, we provide a focused review on some of the factors driving racial disparities in sepsis. We also suggest potential interventions aimed at reducing health disparities in the prevention, early identification, and clinical management of sepsis.
The Impacts of Climate Change in the MENA Region and the Water-Energy Nexus
Authors: Lange Manfred A.
Published: October 2018

The present paper aims to elucidate the impact of climate change on the availability and security of water and energy in the Middle East and North Africa Region (MENA Region). The region is particularly challenged by a number of factors including a large variability of bio-geographical characteristics, extreme population growth over the last few decades and substantial societal and economical transitions as well as armed conflicts in some of the countries of the region. Anticipated changes in climate conditions will exacerbate the challenges with regard to providing sufficient amounts of water and energy to the communities in the region. Impacts of climate change will materialize as an increasing number of heat waves, primarily in urban structures and the decline in water availability as a result of enhanced droughts and a growing numbers of dry spells. The interrelationships between energy and water and their mutual dependencies are addressed by the Water-Energy-Nexus concept. With regard to the challenges addressed here, Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean are a particular point in case. Mitigation and adaptation strategies include enhanced efficiency of energy and water use, integrated technology assessments regarding electricity generation and the production of potable water and electricity through concentrated solar power.
Effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Neurorehabilitation of Task-Specific Dystonia: A Double-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Rosset-Llobet Jaume , Fàbregas-Molas Sílvia , Pascual-Leone Álvaro
Published: October 2018

Task-specific focal hand dystonia can disable affected individuals. Although neurorehabilitation techniques such as sensory motor retuning can result in complete recovery in some patients, it requires many months of treatment. Combining transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)
with neurorehabilitation is a new and promising approach that can help these patients. However, the results in different studies are contradictory. OBJECTIVE: Analyze whether delivering tDCS (cathode over left and anode over right parietal region) during the neurorehabilitation process for
musicians with dystonia can increase the effectiveness of therapy. METHOD: A parallel double-blind randomized design was used to study 30 musicians with right-hand primary focal dystonia. All patients underwent a 2-week course of neurorehabilitation based on sensory motor retuning therapy
coupled with either real or sham tDCS for the first 30 minutes of each daily 1-hour therapy session (total 10 sessions). The therapist and patient were blind to the tDCS condition. A dystonia severity score was obtained before and after the 2-week protocol. The therapist also rated the evolution
of each patient. RESULTS: Both groups significantly improved their dystonia severity score during the 2 weeks. Score differences were 88.23 (±40.51) and 63.36 (±30.57) for the active and sham groups, respectively. The active group showed a statistically significant greater improvement.
CONCLUSIONS: Biparietal tDCS with left-sided cathode is a safe technique that does not interfere with the neurorehabilitation procedure and can increase therapy effectiveness in rehabilitation patients with right-hand task-specific focal dystonia.
Anxiety’s Effect on Muscle Activation and Fatigue in Trumpet Players: A Pilot Study
Authors: Rumsey Hannah E , Aggarwal Sahil , Hobson Erin M , Park Jeeyn , Pidcoe Peter
Published: October 2018

Due to the high percentage of musicians who suffer from musculoskeletal disorders, there is a need for more research in the field of music and medicine. The purpose of this study was to analyze the possible relationship between anxiety, muscle activation, and muscle fatigue in undergraduate
trumpet players. Assessment tools included surface electromyography (sEMG) data, State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and Visual Analogue Scales (VAS) of perceived anxiety. Data were collected from 27 undergraduate music students across five universities (22 males, 5 females) aged 18 to 24
years. The three muscles targeted by the sEMG were the upper trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, and masseter muscles. Participants were randomly divided into two single-blinded groups: (1) anxiety-induction and (2) control. The anxiety-induction group was instructed to play as accurately as possible
and informed that mistakes were being counted and evaluated, while the control group was instructed to play without any concern for possible mistakes. The anxiety-induction group was shown to have more masseter muscle activation than the control; the anxiety-induction group also displayed
a higher fatigue rate in all three muscles versus the controls. Subjects with high perceived- anxiety (as measured by VAS) displayed higher masseter activation and higher fatigue rates in the upper trapezius and sternocleidomastoid than non-anxious participants. Despite these notable trends,
there was no statistical significance for any of the muscle groups for muscle activation or fatigue.
Use of a Textured Insole to Improve the Association Between Postural Balance and Ankle Discrimination in Young Male and Female Dancers
Authors: Steinberg Nili , Waddington Gordon , Adams Roger , Karin Janet , Tirosh Oren
Published: October 2018

Ballet dancers require a high level of postural balance (PB) and proprioception ability during performance. As textured insoles inserted into ballet shoes were found to improve proprioception ability, and better proprioceptive acuity was associated with better PB, the aim of the present
study was to investigate whether the association between ankle inversion movement discrimination (AIMD) and PB changed following wearing textured insoles in young male and female dancers. METHODS: Forty-four dancers from the Australian Ballet School, ages 14–19 yrs, were tested for static
and dynamic PB and AIMD under two conditions: in ballet shoes, and in ballet shoes with textured insoles inserted. RESULTS: Female dancers demonstrated a significant inverse relationship between AIMD and static PB in the medio-lateral direction when wearing ballet shoes, but not when wearing
textured insoles. Male dancers showed a non-monotonic relationship when tested with ballet shoes only, but a significant inverse relationship between AIMD and dynamic PB in the vertical direction and with the waist/head cross-correlation acceleration in the three movement directions when they
were tested with textured insoles. CONCLUSIONS: Male dancers demonstrated an improved association between dynamic PB and proprioception ability when using textured insoles, suggesting that the increased afferent information from the plantar surface had a beneficial effect on proprioception
feedback about their PB. Conversely, for female dancers, that association was present when wearing ballet shoes, but not when using textured insoles, suggesting that the increased afferent information for female dancers who already had high proprioception ability was “overloaded”
by wearing the textured insoles.
Abstracts from the Literature, No. 69
Authors: Dawson William J
Published: October 2018

Once again, recent journals have published multiple articles on a single topic. This column reviews four articles dealing with various effects of music training. It is interesting that, since Dawson’s article on this topic appeared in MPPA 18 months ago, literally dozens of new
research-based articles have appeared, greatly expanding current knowledge of this complex and fascinating subject.
Hydraulic Fracturing Design to Unlock Light Tight Oil Resources in South Oman
Authors: Al Hadhrami Abdullah , Al Riyami Abdullah , Schulz Ralf , Moiseenkov Alexey , Khayrutdinov Fanis , Smirnov Dmitrii , Al Kindi Nawal
Published: October 2018

Field "A" produces from a mixed-wet formation comprising of fine grained silicilite. The field is a sour light tight oil reservoir with permeability range from 0.001 – 0.1 mD, the only way to flow the existing vertical wells is through hydraulic fracs. Historically the wells have been fracced using water based frac fluids, which have caused severe negative consequences related to well integrity and reduced productivity. With a recovery factor of <1% after 15 years of production, the main challenge and objective lies in enhancing productivity and unlocking the huge volumes of this reservoir through optimizing the field development concept, completion, frac design and execution.

A study was conducted with a recommendation to develop the field by drilling slanted wells with ~10 - 15 frac stages. The frac design in itself is unconventional or hybrid where the targeted frac half length is 5x more than the existing conventional ones. The use of oil based frac fluid instead of water is an opportunity actively pursued to enhance productivity and eliminate issues related to scale and corrosion that in the past have resulted in a loss of production.

Findings of the study have clearly indicated that developing the field with several slanted multi frac wells is economically attractive; with an increase in Net Present Value (NPV) by ~60% and decrease in Unit Technical Cost(UTC) by ~30% compared to developing the field conventionally with vertical wells.