bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review on sludge dewatering indices
Authors: To Vu Hien Phuong , Nguyen Tien Vinh , Vigneswaran Saravanamuth , Ngo Huu Hao
Published: March 2016

Dewatering of sludge from sewage treatment plants is proving to be a significant challenge due to the large amounts of residual sludges generated annually. In recent years, research and development have focused on improving the dewatering process in order to reduce subsequent costs of sludge management and transport. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to establish reliable indices that reflect the efficiency of sludge dewatering. However, the evaluation of sludge dewaterability is not an easy task due to the highly complex nature of sewage sludge and variations in solid–liquid separation methods. Most traditional dewatering indices fail to predict the maximum cake solids content achievable during full-scale dewatering. This paper reviews the difficulties in assessing sludge dewatering performance, and the main techniques used to evaluate dewatering performance are compared and discussed in detail. Finally, the paper suggests a new dewatering index, namely the modified centrifugal index, which is demonstrated to be an appropriate indicator for estimating the final cake solids content as well as simulating the prototype dewatering process.
Characterizing phosphorus removal from polluted urban river water by steel slags in a vertical flow constructed wetland
Authors: Ge Yuan , Wang Xiaochang C. , Dzakpasu Mawuli , Zheng Yucong , Zhao Yaqian , Xiong Jiaqing
Published: March 2016

Phosphorus (P) removal in constructed wetlands (CWs) is often low unless special substrates with high sorption capacities are used. However, the use of special substrates in vertical flow (VF) CWs has not been proved to enhance P sorption. Thus, two VF wetlands were designed to evaluate the potential for enhanced P removal from polluted urban river water, one with slag as substrate and the other as a control with gravel as substrate. Findings from batch experiments showed P sorption capacities of 3.15 gP/kg and 0.81 gP/kg, respectively, for steel slag and gravel. Different organic matter fractions played different roles in P sorption, the effects of which were significant only at high concentrations. Over a 220 days' operation, the VF-slag removed 76.0% of the influent total phosphorus (TP) at 0.159 g/m2·d and PO4-P of 70.9% at 0.063 g/m2·d, whereas the VF-gravel removed 65.0% at 0.136 g/m2·d and 48.6% at 0.040 g/m2·d, respectively. Therefore, the merit of using a steel slag substrate in VF wetlands can be significant for the removal of PO4-P.
Aspergillus piperis A/5 from plum-distilling waste compost produces a complex of antifungal metabolites active against the phytopathogen Pythium aphanidermatum
Authors: Jovicic-Petrovic Jelena , Jeremic Sanja , Vuckovic Ivan , Vojnovic Sandra , Bulajic Aleksandra , Raicevic Vera , Nikodinovic-Runic Jasmina
Published: March 2016

Adding compost to soil can result in plant disease suppression through the
mechanisms of antagonistic action of compost microflora against plant
pathogens. The aim of the study was to select effective antagonists of
Pythium aphanidermatum from compost, to assess the effect of its
extracellular metabolites on the plant pathogen, and to characterize
antifungal metabolites. The fungal isolate selected by a confrontation test
was identified as Aspergillus piperis A/5 on the basis of morphological
features and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, ?-tubulin and
calmodulin partial sequences. Liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy
(LC-MS) analysis showed that gluconic and citric acid were the most abundant
in the organic culture extract. However, the main antifungal activity was
contained in the aqueous phase remaining after the organic solvent
extraction. The presence of considerable amounts of proteins in both the
crude culture extract as well as the aqueous phase remaining after solvent
extraction was confirmed by SDS-PAGE. Isolated Aspergillus piperis A/5
exhibits strong antifungal activity against the phytopathogen Pythium
aphanidermatum. It secretes a complex mixture of metabolites consisting of
small molecules, including gluconic acid, citric acid and itaconic acid
derivatives, but the most potent antifungal activity was associated with
proteins resistant to heat and organic solvents. Our findings about the
activity and characterization of antagonistic strain metabolites contribute
to the understanding of the mechanism of interaction of antifungal
metabolites as well as fungal-fungal interaction. The obtained results
provide a basis for further application development in agriculture and food
processing.
Relationship between the bioavailability and molecular properties of angiotensin II receptor antagonists
Authors: Trbojevic Jovana , Odovic Jadranka , Trbojevic-Stankovic Jasna , Nesic Dejan , Jelic Ratomir
Published: March 2016

In the present study, we investigated the relationships between several
molecular properties and bioavailability data for seven of the most commonly
prescribed angiotensin II receptor antagonists (also known as angiotensin II
receptor blockers (ARBs) or sartans), candesartan, eprosartan, irbesartan,
losartan, olmesartan, telmisartan and valsartan. The molecular descriptors of
ARBs are:, aqueous solubility (logS values), polar surface area (PSA),
molecular weight (Mw), volume value (Vol), lipophilicity (logP values) and
the acidity descriptor (pKa1). The respective descriptors were calculated
using four different software packages. The relevant bioavailability data
were obtained from literature. Among calculated molecular descriptors, simple
linear regression analysis showed the best correlation between
bioavailability data and the lipophilicity descriptor, logP (R2 = 0.568).
Multiple linear regression established good correlations between
bioavailability and the lipophilicity descriptor, logP, using the molecular
weight, Mw, or the acidity descriptor, pKa1, as an additional, independent
variable (with R2 0.661 and 0.682, respectively). Finally, excluding
candesartan from the calculations resulted in a very good correlation (R2 =
0.852) between the remaining ARB bioavailability and molecular descriptors
MlogP and Mw as independent variables, determined by multiple linear
regression.
Heterogeneous kinetics of vegetable oil transesterification at high temperature
Authors: Nasreen Sadia , Liu Hui , Lukic Ivana , Qurashi Liaqat , Skala Dejan
Published: March 2016

Currently, the catalytic efficiency and reusability of the solid base
catalysts cannot meet the demand of industrial biodiesel production under low
temperature. The purpose of this study is to define the kinetics of
heterogeneous transesterification process which might be used for the
prediction of the biodiesel synthesis at high temperature and pressure. The
focus in this study was paid to recently reported data obtained with
different catalysts used for biodiesel synthesis in a batch reactor at high
temperatures. It was shown that three kinetic models that include: a)
irreversible first order reaction; b) reaction with changeable order; and c)
resistances of mass transfer and chemical reaction at active sites of the
catalyst could be applied for predicting the effect of high temperature of
the transesterification. The apparent reaction rate constant of the
irreversible first order reaction was determined, as well as the parameters
of the other two, more complicated kinetic models. The best agreement was
obtained with the more complicated models and the mean relative percent
deviation between calculated and experimentally determined triacylglycerols
conversion for these kinetic models is between 3 and 10%.
The use of artificial neural networks for mathematical modeling of the effect of composition and production conditions on the properties of PVC floor coverings
Authors: Radovanovic Rajko , Jovicic Mirjana , Bera Oskar , Pavlicevic Jelena , Pilic Branka , Radicevic Radmila
Published: March 2016

The application of PVC floor coverings is strongly connected with their
end-use properties, which depend on the composition and processing
conditions. It is very difficult to estimate the proper influence of the
production parameters on the characteristics of PVC floor coverings due to
their complex composition and various preparation procedures. The effect of
different processing variables (such as time of bowling, temperature of
bowling and composition of PVC plastisol) on the mechanical properties of PVC
floor coverings was investigated. The influence of different input parameters
on the mechanical properties was successfully determined using an artificial
neural network with an optimized number of hidden neurons. The Garson and
Yoon models were applied to calculate and describe the variable contributions
in the artificial neural networks.
Determination of isotopic distribution of lead by a matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization versus a laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Kamceva Tina , Nesic Maja , Stoiljkovic Milovan , Popovic Iva , Miletic Jadranka , Rajcic Boris , Petkovic Marijana , Velickovic Suzana
Published: March 2016

In this work it has been shown that both the laser desorption/ionization mass
spectrometry (LDI MS) and the matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization
time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI TOF MS) are the simple and quick
methods for determination of relative natural isotopic distribution of lead.
The analysis of metal salts with these approaches does not require any
time-consuming preparation of samples: a single run can take only a minute,
and numerous information can be obtained. Results obtained in this work show
that chosen matrix has no negative effect on quantitative determination of
lead isotopes and support once more the applicability of MALDI TOF MS for
lead isotope distribution determination in the sample, and accuracy of data
obtained. Additionally, the generation of PbnOn and PbnOn-1 (n: 2 - 6)
clusters have been successfully achieved in the positive mode, using the both
LDI and MALDI methods. All stoichiometries were confirmed using isotopic
pattern modelling.
Identification of Tetraspanin-7 as a Target of Autoantibodies in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: McLaughlin Kerry A. , Richardson Carolyn C. , Ravishankar Aarthi , Brigatti Cristina , Liberati Daniela , Lampasona Vito , Piemonti Lorenzo , Morgan Diana , Feltbower Richard G. , Christie Michael R.
Published: March 2016

The presence of autoantibodies to multiple-islet autoantigens confers high risk for the development of type 1 diabetes. Four major autoantigens are established (insulin, glutamate decarboxylase, IA2, and zinc transporter-8), but the molecular identity of a fifth, a 38-kDa membrane glycoprotein (Glima), is unknown. Glima antibodies have been detectable only by immunoprecipitation from extracts of radiolabeled islet or neuronal cells. We sought to identify Glima to enable efficient assay of these autoantibodies. Mouse brain and lung were shown to express Glima. Membrane glycoproteins from extracts of these organs were enriched by detergent phase separation, lectin affinity chromatography, and SDS-PAGE. Proteins were also immunoaffinity purified from brain extracts using autoantibodies from the sera of patients with diabetes before SDS-PAGE. Eluates from gel regions equivalent to 38 kDa were analyzed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry for protein identification. Three proteins were detected in samples from the brain and lung extracts, and in the immunoaffinity-purified sample, but not in the negative control. Only tetraspanin-7, a multipass transmembrane glycoprotein with neuroendocrine expression, had physical characteristics expected of Glima. Tetraspanin-7 was confirmed as an autoantigen by demonstrating binding to autoantibodies in type 1 diabetes. We identify tetraspanin-7 as a target of autoimmunity in diabetes, allowing its exploitation for diabetes prediction and immunotherapy.
Inhibition of DYRK1A Stimulates Human β-Cell Proliferation
Authors: Dirice Ercument , Walpita Deepika , Vetere Amedeo , Meier Bennett C. , Kahraman Sevim , Hu Jiang , Dančík Vlado , Burns Sean M. , Gilbert Tamara J. , Olson David E. , Clemons Paul A. , Kulkarni Rohit N. , Wagner Bridget K.
Published: March 2016

Restoring functional β-cell mass is an important therapeutic goal for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes (1). While proliferation of existing β-cells is the primary means of β-cell replacement in rodents (2), it is unclear whether a similar principle applies to humans, as human β-cells are remarkably resistant to stimulation of division (3,4). Here, we show that 5-iodotubercidin (5-IT), an annotated adenosine kinase inhibitor previously reported to increase proliferation in rodent and porcine islets (5), strongly and selectively increases human β-cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Remarkably, 5-IT also increased glucose-dependent insulin secretion after prolonged treatment. Kinome profiling revealed 5-IT to be a potent and selective inhibitor of the dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation–regulated kinase (DYRK) and cell division cycle–like kinase families. Induction of β-cell proliferation by either 5-IT or harmine, another natural product DYRK1A inhibitor, was suppressed by coincubation with the calcineurin inhibitor FK506, suggesting involvement of DYRK1A and nuclear factor of activated T cells signaling. Gene expression profiling in whole islets treated with 5-IT revealed induction of proliferation- and cell cycle–related genes, suggesting that true proliferation is induced by 5-IT. Furthermore, 5-IT promotes β-cell proliferation in human islets grafted under the kidney capsule of NOD-scid IL2Rgnull mice. These results point to inhibition of DYRK1A as a therapeutic strategy to increase human β-cell proliferation.
The Hypoglycemic Phenotype Is Islet Cell–Autonomous in Short-Chain Hydroxyacyl-CoA Dehydrogenase–Deficient Mice
Authors: Molven Anders , Hollister-Lock Jennifer , Hu Jiang , Martinez Rachael , Njølstad Pål R. , Liew Chong Wee , Weir Gordon , Kulkarni Rohit N.
Published: March 2016

Congenital hyperinsulinism of infancy (CHI) can be caused by inactivating mutations in the gene encoding short-chain 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (SCHAD), a ubiquitously expressed enzyme involved in fatty acid oxidation. The hypersecretion of insulin may be explained by a loss of interaction between SCHAD and glutamate dehydrogenase in the pancreatic β-cells. However, there is also a general accumulation of metabolites specific for the enzymatic defect in affected individuals. It remains to be explored whether hypoglycemia in SCHAD CHI can be uncoupled from the systemic effect on fatty acid oxidation. We therefore transplanted islets from global SCHAD knockout (SCHADKO) mice into mice with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. After transplantation, SCHADKO islet recipients exhibited significantly lower random and fasting blood glucose compared with mice transplanted with normal islets or nondiabetic, nontransplanted controls. Furthermore, intraperitoneal glucose tolerance was improved in animals receiving SCHADKO islets compared with those receiving normal islets. Graft β-cell proliferation and apoptosis rates were similar in the two transplantation groups. We conclude that hypoglycemia in SCHAD-CHI is islet cell–autonomous.
Diabetes and Prediabetes and Risk of Hospitalization: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study
Authors: Schneider Andrea L.C. , Kalyani Rita R. , Golden Sherita , Stearns Sally C. , Wruck Lisa , Yeh Hsin Chieh , Coresh Josef , Selvin Elizabeth
Published: March 2016

OBJECTIVE

To examine the magnitude and types of hospitalizations among persons with prediabetes, undiagnosed diabetes, and diagnosed diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This study included 13,522 participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study (mean age 57 years, 56% female, 24% black, 18% with prediabetes, 4% with undiagnosed diabetes, 9% with diagnosed diabetes) with follow-up in 1990–2011 for hospitalizations. Participants were categorized by diabetes/HbA1c status: without diagnosed diabetes, HbA1c <5.7% (reference); prediabetes, 5.7 to <6.5%; undiagnosed diabetes, ≥6.5%; and diagnosed diabetes, <7.0 and ≥7.0%.

RESULTS

Demographic adjusted rates per 1,000 person-years of all-cause hospitalizations were higher with increasing diabetes/HbA1c category (Ptrend < 0.001). Persons with diagnosed diabetes and HbA1c ≥7.0% had the highest rates of hospitalization (3.1 times higher than those without a history of diagnosed diabetes, HbA1c <5.7%, and 1.5 times higher than those with diagnosed diabetes, HbA1c <7.0%, P < 0.001 for both comparisons). Persons with undiagnosed diabetes had 1.6 times higher rates of hospitalization and those with prediabetes had 1.3 times higher rates of hospitalization than those without diabetes and HbA1c <5.7% (P < 0.001 for both comparisons). Rates of hospitalization by diabetes/HbA1c category were different by race (Pinteraction = 0.011) and by sex (Pinteraction = 0.020). There were significantly excess rates of hospitalizations due to cardiovascular, endocrine, respiratory, gastrointestinal, iatrogenic/injury, neoplasm, genitourinary, neurologic, and infection causes among those with diagnosed diabetes compared with those without a history of diagnosed diabetes (all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Persons with diagnosed diabetes, undiagnosed diabetes, and prediabetes are at a significantly elevated risk of hospitalization compared with those without diabetes. Substantial excess rates of hospitalizations in persons with diagnosed diabetes were for endocrine, infection, and iatrogenic/injury causes, which may be preventable with improved diabetes care.
Associations between sex, body weight, age, and ultrasonographically determined adrenal gland thickness in dogs with non-adrenal gland illness
Authors: Bento Pedro L. , Center Sharon A. , Randolph John F. , Yeager Amy E. , Bicalho Rodrigo C.
Published: March 2016

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether body weight, age, or sex was associated with ultrasonographically determined adrenal gland thickness (AT) in dogs with non-adrenal gland illness.

DESIGN

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

ANIMALS

266 dogs (22 sexually intact and 119 castrated males and 19 sexually intact and 106 spayed females representing 12 breeds) with non-adrenal gland illness.

PROCEDURES

Thickness of the caudal pole of the left and right adrenal glands was measured on longitudinal ultrasonographic images. Dogs were stratified into age and body weight categories to investigate associations with AT.

RESULTS

AT was significantly lower in dogs that weighed ≤ 12 kg (26.4 lb) than in dogs that weighed > 12 kg and left AT increased with age. Both left and right AT were larger in male than in female dogs that weighed > 12 to ≤ 20 kg, and left AT was larger in male than in female dogs that weighed > 20 to ≤ 30 kg.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Results suggested that body weight, age, and sex were significantly associated with AT, indicating that these variables should be considered when evaluating AT in dogs with non-adrenal gland illness and when developing reference intervals for AT in dogs. Further, findings indicated that dogs with non-adrenal gland illness that weigh ≤ 12 kg should have an AT no greater than 0.62 cm, whereas dogs that weigh > 12 kg should have an AT no greater than 0.72 cm.
Abdominal Bracing Increases Ground Reaction Forces and Reduces Knee and Hip Flexion During Landing
Authors: Campbell Amity , Kemp-Smith Kevin , O'Sullivan Peter , Straker Leon
Published: March 2016

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Background

Abdominal bracing (AB) is a widely advocated method of increasing spine stability, yet the influence of AB on the execution of sporting movements has not been quantified. Landing is a common task during sporting endeavors; therefore, investigating the effect of performing AB during a drop-landing task is relevant.

Objective

To quantify the effect of AB on kinematics (ankle, knee, hip, and regional lumbar spine peak flexion angles) and peak vertical ground reaction force (vGRF) during a drop-landing task.

Methods

Sixteen healthy adults (7 female, 9 male; mean ± SD age, 27 ± 7 years; height, 170.6 ± 8.1 cm; mass, 68.0 ± 11.3 kg) were assessed using 3-D motion analysis, electromyography (EMG), and a force platform while performing a drop-landing task with and without AB. Abdominal bracing was achieved with the assistance of real-time internal oblique EMG feedback. Lower-limb and regional lumbar spine kinematics, peak vGRF, and normalized EMG of the left and right internal obliques and lumbar multifidus were quantified. Paired-samples t tests were used to compare variables between the AB and no-AB conditions.

Results

Abdominal bracing resulted in significantly reduced knee and hip flexion and increased peak vGRF during landing. No differences in lumbar multifidus EMG or lumbar spine kinematics were observed.

Conclusion

Abdominal bracing reduces impact attenuation during landing. These altered biomechanics may have implications for lower-limb and spinal injury risk during dynamic tasks. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(4):286–292. Epub 8 Mar 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.5774
Postural Cueing to Increase Lumbar Lordosis Increases Lumbar Multifidus Activation During Trunk Stabilization Exercises: Electromyographic Assessment Using Intramuscular Electrodes
Authors: Beneck George J. , Story John W. , Donald Shelby
Published: March 2016

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study, repeated-measures design.

Background

Diminished multifidus activation and cross-sectional area are frequent findings in persons with low back pain. Increasing lumbar lordosis has been shown to increase activation of the multifidus with a minimal increase in activation of the long global extensors during unsupported sitting.

Objectives

To examine the influence of postural cueing to increase lumbar lordosis on lumbar extensor activation during trunk stabilization exercises.

Methods

Thirteen asymptomatic participants (9 male, 4 female) were instructed to perform 6 trunk stabilization exercises using a neutral position and increasing lumbar lordosis. Electrical activity of the deep multifidus and longissimus thoracis was recorded using fine-wire intramuscular electrodes. The mean root-mean-square of the electromyography (EMG) signal obtained during each exercise was normalized to a maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC). A 2-way, repeated-measures analysis of variance (posture by exercise) was performed for each muscle.

Results

When averaged across the 6 exercises, postural cueing to increase lumbar lordosis resulted in greater multifidus EMG activity compared to performing the exercises in a neutral posture (35.3% ± 15.1% versus 29.5% ± 11.2% MVIC). No significant increase in longissimus thoracis EMG activity was observed when exercising with cueing to increase lumbar lordosis.

Conclusion

This study suggests that postural cueing to increase lumbar lordosis during trunk stabilization exercises may better promote multifidus activation than traditional stabilization exercises alone. Future studies are needed to determine whether increasing lumbar lordosis improves multifidus activation in persons with low back pain. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(4):293–299. Epub 8 Mar 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.6174
Opportunity Cost for Society Related to U.S. Truck Size and Weight Regulation: Freight Efficiency
Authors: Woodrooffe John
Published: March 2016

Improvements in truck freight efficiency through such measures as optimized logistics and truck loading, the utilization of other transportation modes, and the reform of federal truck size and weight policy are expected to require fewer truck trips to move the nation’s freight. This reduction in truck travel distance should bring with it reductions in fuel consumption, emissions, and casualties as a result of reduced exposure. This paper discusses truck size and weight policy domestically and internationally and contrasts U.S. mass efficiency with that of the country’s North American Free Trade Agreement partners and, more broadly, with countries outside of North America. The analysis reveals the outdated nature of U.S. federal size and weight policy compared with other nations. The inability of U.S. federal policy to remain current with other countries is a result of a freeze on policy change that has been in place since 1982. An analysis of the societal benefits associated with improvements in truck freight efficiency is provided. Rather than estimating the precise benefits associated with the many options available, the analysis examines the benefits associated with a 10% reduction in truck travel distance. In this way, the paper provides insight into the significance of improved freight efficiency that reduces total truck travel distance, which in turn provides fuel savings, a reduction in emissions, and a reduction in truck crash frequency. The analysis concludes that a 10% reduction in truck distance traveled for a fixed national freight task would generate approximately $16 billion, save 330 lives, and prevent approximately 4,000 injuries per year.
Highly Efficient Synthesis of Amine-Substituted Diazoacetoacetates from Aldimines and Vinyldiazoacetate Catalysed by MgI2 Etherate
Authors: Wu Tianpeng , Qi Weipeng , Mi Senyang , Zhang Xingxian
Published: March 2016

A mild and efficient procedure is described for the synthesis of amine-substituted diazoacetoacetates by the addition of ethyl 3-( tert-butyldimethylsilanoxy)-2-diazobut-3-enoate to aldimines catalysed by MgI2 etherate (MgI2•(OEt2)n) in MeCN. The reaction produces good to excellent yield at room temperature.
Synthesis of 1,3-Thiazolidin-4-Ones; Reactivity of the Thiosemicarbazone Function towards Dimethyl Acetylenedicarboxylate
Authors: Hassan Alaa A. , Mohamed Shaaban K. , Mohamed Nasr K. , El-Shaieb Kamal M. , Abdel-Aziz Ahmed T. , Mague Joel T. , Akkurt Mehmet
Published: March 2016

Aryl thiosemicarbazones react rapidly in a facile procedure with dimethyl acetylene-dicarboxylate to give substituted (ylidene) hydrazono(4-oxothiazolidin-5-ylidene) acetates in high yields. The synthesised compounds were characterised by spectroscopic methods and the structures confirmed by single crystal X-ray crystallography. Several mechanistic options involving nucleophilic interaction are presented.
The effects of velocity on peak torque and neuromuscular responses during eccentric muscle actions
Authors: Hill Ethan C. , Housh Terry J. , Camic Clayton L. , Jenkins Nathaniel D.M. , Smith Cory M. , Cochrane Kristen C. , Cramer Joel T. , Schmidt Richard J. , Monaghan Molly M. , Johnson Glen O.
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND:

Previous investigations have examined the torque and neuromuscular responses to maximal concentric and isometric muscle actions. The literature, however, has paid less attention to the effects of performing maximal eccentric muscle actions. Furthermore, the available information in this regard is contradictory.

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of the present investigation was to examine eccentric, isokinetic peak moment (PMe), electromyographic (EMG) amplitude (AMP), EMG mean power frequency (MPF), mechanomyographic (MMG) AMP, and MMG MPF patterns of responses to repeated, maximal, eccentric muscle actions at 60, 120, and 180°/s.

METHODS:

Twelve resistance-trained men visited the laboratory on three occasions (separated by ≥ 72 h) and performed 30 repeated, maximal, eccentric muscle actions of the dominant leg extensors on an isokinetic dynamometer at randomly ordered velocities of 60, 120, and 180°/s.

RESULTS:

There were no changes (p > 0.05) across the 30 repeated, eccentric muscle actions for PMe, MMG AMP, and EMG MPF for any of the velocities. There were, however, increases in EMG AMP and decreases in MMG MPF for each velocity.

CONCLUSIONS:

The decrease in MMG MPF, which reflects the global firing rate of the activated motor units, in conjunction with the lack of change in MMG AMP, which reflects motor unit recruitment, suggested that the increase in EMG AMP was due to motor unit synchronization.
Comparison of knee extension concentric fatigue between repetition ranges
Authors: McLeland Kathryn A. , Ruas Cassio V. , Arevalo Jose A. , Bagley James R. , Ciccone Anthony B. , Brown Lee E. , Coburn Jared W. , Galpin Andrew J. , Malyszek Kylie K.
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND:

Anaerobic fatigue is a limiting factor in performance and athletes are often tested to determine their fatigue resistance. Administering the classic Thorstensson test of fatigability is a popular method to determine fatigue percentage as it requires 50 maximal knee extension repetitions. However, there has been little research to determine whether performing more or fewer repetitions yields similar results.

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this study was to compare concentric fatigue percentage (FP) between the classic Thorstensson test (CT; average of first 3 repetitions to average of last 3 repetitions) and three different repetition ranges: peak torque repetition to repetition 30 (P30), peak torque repetition to repetition 50 (P50), and peak torque repetition to repetition 60 (P60).

METHODS:

Fifteen resistance trained men (age = 24.8 ± 1.3 yrs; height = 178.9 ± 5.1 cm; mass = 82.2 ± 8.0 kg) volunteered to perform 60 maximal concentric knee extension repetitions at 180°/s on an isokinetic dynamometer, measuring peak torque of each repetition.

RESULTS:

P30 (r= 0.81) and P50 (r= 0.77) were highly correlated with CT but P60 (r= 0.58) was only moderately correlated with CT. P30 FP (44.7 ± 8.8) was significantly less than CT (62.3 ± 6.0), P50 (66.0 ± 6.8) and P60 (69.7 ± 7.1).

CONCLUSION:

FP can be determined through fewer repetitions of a knee extension fatigue test on an isokinetic dynamometer. While both P30 and P50 were highly correlated with CT, performing fewer repetitions requires less time to complete as well as less residual fatigue. When measuring knee extension FP, the number of repetitions performed in the test may be reduced to 30 while still maintaining a high correlation to a longer method of 50.
The Stiffness and Damping Characteristics of a Dual-Chamber Air Spring Device Applied to Motion Suppression of Marine Structures
Authors: Zeng Xiaohui , Zhang Liang , Yu Yang , Shi Min , Zhou Jifu
Published: March 2016

Dual-chamber air springs are used as a key component for vibration isolation in some industrial applications. The working principle of the dual-chamber air spring device as applied to motion suppression of marine structures is similar to that of the traditional air spring, but they differ in their specific characteristics. The stiffness and damping of the dual-chamber air spring device determine the extent of motion suppression. In this article, we investigate the stiffness and damping characteristics of a dual-chamber air spring device applied to marine structure motion suppression using orthogonal analysis and an experimental method. We measure the effects of volume ratio, orifice ratio, excitation amplitude, and frequency on the stiffness and damping of the dual-chamber vibration absorber. Based on the experimental results, a higher-order non-linear regression method is obtained. We achieve a rapid calculation model for dual-chamber air spring stiffness and damping, which can provide guidance to project design.
Investigation of the Machining Stability of a Milling Machine with Hybrid Guideway Systems
Authors: Hung Jui-Pin , Lin Wei-Zhu , Chen Yong-Jun , Luo Tzou-Lung
Published: March 2016

This study was aimed to investigate the machining stability of a horizontal milling machine with hybrid guideway systems by finite element method. To this purpose, we first created finite element model of the milling machine with the introduction of the contact stiffness defined at the sliding and rolling interfaces, respectively. Also, the motorized built-in spindle model was created and implemented in the whole machine model. Results of finite element simulations reveal that linear guides with different preloads greatly affect the dynamic responses and machining stability of the horizontal milling machine. The critical cutting depth predicted at the vibration mode associated with the machine tool structure is about 10 mm and 25 mm in the X and Y direction, respectively, while the cutting depth predicted at the vibration mode associated with the spindle structure is about 6.0 mm. Also, the machining stability can be increased when the preload of linear roller guides of the feeding mechanism is changed from lower to higher amount.
Biochemical and Functional Insights into the Integrated Regulation of Innate Immune Cell Responses by Teleost Leukocyte Immune-Type Receptors
Authors: Fei Chenjie , Pemberton Joshua , Lillico Dustin , Zwozdesky Myron , Stafford James
Published: March 2016

Across vertebrates, innate immunity consists of a complex assortment of highly specialized cells capable of unleashing potent effector responses designed to destroy or mitigate foreign pathogens. The execution of various innate cellular behaviors such as phagocytosis, degranulation, or cell-mediated cytotoxicity are functionally indistinguishable when being performed by immune cells isolated from humans or teleost fishes; vertebrates that diverged from one another more than 450 million years ago. This suggests that vital components of the vertebrate innate defense machinery are conserved and investigating such processes in a range of model systems provides an important opportunity to identify fundamental features of vertebrate immunity. One characteristic that is highly conserved across vertebrate systems is that cellular immune responses are dependent on specialized immunoregulatory receptors that sense environmental stimuli and initiate intracellular cascades that can elicit appropriate effector responses. A wide variety of immunoregulatory receptor families have been extensively studied in mammals, and many have been identified as cell- and function-specific regulators of a range of innate responses. Although much less is known in fish, the growing database of genomic information has recently allowed for the identification of several immunoregulatory receptor gene families in teleosts. Many of these putative immunoregulatory receptors have yet to be assigned any specific role(s), and much of what is known has been based solely on structural and/or phylogenetic relationships with mammalian receptor families. As an attempt to address some of these shortcomings, this review will focus on our growing understanding of the functional roles played by specific members of the channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) leukocyte immune-type receptors (IpLITRs), which appear to be important regulators of several innate cellular responses via classical as well as unique biochemical signaling networks.
Hydrogen Production by Ethanol Steam Reforming (ESR) over CeO2 Supported Transition Metal (Fe, Co, Ni, Cu) Catalysts: Insight into the Structure-Activity Relationship
Authors: Konsolakis Michalis , Ioakimidis Zisis , Kraia Tzouliana , Marnellos George
Published: March 2016

The aim of the present work was to investigate steam reforming of ethanol with regard to H2 production over transition metal catalysts supported on CeO2. Various parameters concerning the effect of temperature (400–800 °C), steam-to-carbon (S/C) feed ratio (0.5, 1.5, 3, 6), metal entity (Fe, Co, Ni, Cu) and metal loading (15–30 wt.%) on the catalytic performance, were thoroughly studied. The optimal performance was obtained for the 20 wt.% Co/CeO2 catalyst, achieving a H2 yield of up to 66% at 400 °C. In addition, the Co/CeO2 catalyst demonstrated excellent stability performance in the whole examined temperature range of 400–800 °C. In contrast, a notable stability degradation, especially at low temperatures, was observed for Ni-, Cu-, and Fe-based catalysts, ascribed mainly to carbon deposition. An extensive characterization study, involving N2 adsorption-desorption (BET), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM/EDS), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), and Temperature Programmed Reduction (H2-TPR) was undertaken to gain insight into the structure-activity correlation. The excellent reforming performance of Co/CeO2 catalysts could be attributed to their intrinsic reactivity towards ethanol reforming in combination to their high surface oxygen concentration, which hinders the deposition of carbonaceous species.
Hypoxia Induced NF-κB
Authors: D’Ignazio Laura , Rocha Sonia
Published: March 2016

As Nuclear Factor-κB (NF-κB) is a major transcription factor responding to cellular stress, it is perhaps not surprising that is activated by hypoxia, or decreased oxygen availability. However, how NF-κB becomes activated in hypoxia is still not completely understood. Several mechanisms have been proposed and this review will focus on the main findings highlighting the molecules that have been identified in the process of hypoxia induced NF-κB. In addition, we will discuss the role of NF-κB in the control of the cellular response to hypoxia.
Rab GTPases and the Autophagy Pathway: Bacterial Targets for a Suitable Biogenesis and Trafficking of Their Own Vacuoles
Authors: López de Armentia María , Amaya Celina , Colombo María
Published: March 2016

Autophagy is an intracellular process that comprises degradation of damaged organelles, protein aggregates and intracellular pathogens, having an important role in controlling the fate of invading microorganisms. Intracellular pathogens are internalized by professional and non-professional phagocytes, localizing in compartments called phagosomes. To degrade the internalized microorganism, the microbial phagosome matures by fusion events with early and late endosomal compartments and lysosomes, a process that is regulated by Rab GTPases. Interestingly, in order to survive and replicate in the phagosome, some pathogens employ different strategies to manipulate vesicular traffic, inhibiting phagolysosomal biogenesis (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus and Mycobacterium tuberculosis) or surviving in acidic compartments and forming replicative vacuoles (e.g., Coxiella burnetti and Legionella pneumophila). The bacteria described in this review often use secretion systems to control the host’s response and thus disseminate. To date, eight types of secretion systems (Type I to Type VIII) are known. Some of these systems are used by bacteria to translocate pathogenic proteins into the host cell and regulate replicative vacuole formation, apoptosis, cytokine responses, and autophagy. Herein, we have focused on how bacteria manipulate small Rab GTPases to control many of these processes. The growing knowledge in this field may facilitate the development of new treatments or contribute to the prevention of these types of bacterial infections.
Update of “Biodiversity of the Hypersaline Urmia Lake National Park (NW Iran)”
Authors: Asem Alireza , Eimanifar Amin , Wink Michael
Published: March 2016

Urmia Lake, an endorheic salt lake in northwestern Iran, was registered in the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands as a wetland of international importance, also a UNESCO biosphere reserve. In this review, we have updated our last checklist in 2014 with available information on the biodiversity of the lake.
Evolutionary Sequential Monte Carlo Samplers for Change-Point Models
Authors: Dufays Arnaud
Published: March 2016

Sequential Monte Carlo (SMC) methods are widely used for non-linear filtering purposes. However, the SMC scope encompasses wider applications such as estimating static model parameters so much that it is becoming a serious alternative to Markov-Chain Monte-Carlo (MCMC) methods. Not only do SMC algorithms draw posterior distributions of static or dynamic parameters but additionally they provide an estimate of the marginal likelihood. The tempered and time (TNT) algorithm, developed in this paper, combines (off-line) tempered SMC inference with on-line SMC inference for drawing realizations from many sequential posterior distributions without experiencing a particle degeneracy problem. Furthermore, it introduces a new MCMC rejuvenation step that is generic, automated and well-suited for multi-modal distributions. As this update relies on the wide heuristic optimization literature, numerous extensions are readily available. The algorithm is notably appropriate for estimating change-point models. As an example, we compare several change-point GARCH models through their marginal log-likelihoods over time.
Performance Analysis and Modeling of a Tubular Staggered-Tooth Transverse-Flux PM Linear Machine
Authors: Zhu Shaohong , Zheng Ping , Yu Bin , Cheng Luming , Wang Weinan
Published: March 2016

This paper investigates the performance analysis and mathematical modeling of a staggered-tooth transverse-flux permanent magnet linear synchronous machine (STTF-PMLSM), which is characterized by simple structure and low flux leakage. Firstly, the structure advantages and operation principle of the STTF-PMLSM are introduced, and a simplified one phase model is established to investigate the performance of the machine in order to save the computation time. Then, the electromagnetic characteristics, including no-load flux linkage, electromotive force (EMF), inductance, detent force and thrust force, are simulated and analyzed in detail. After that, the theoretical analysis of the detent force, thrust force, and power factor are carried out. And the theoretical analysis results are validated with 3-D finite-element method (FEM). Finally, an improved mathematical model of the machine based on d-q rotating coordinate system is proposed, in which inductance harmonics and coupling between d- and q-axis inductance is considered. The results from the proposed mathematical model are in accordance with the results from 3-D FEM, which proves the validity and effectiveness of the proposed mathematical model. This provides a powerful foundation for the control of the machine.
Managing Forests for Water in the Anthropocene—The Best Kept Secret Services of Forest Ecosystems
Authors: Creed Irena , Weber Marian , Accatino Francesco , Kreutzweiser David
Published: March 2016

Water and forests are inextricably linked. Pressures on forests from population growth and climate change are increasing risks to forests and their aquatic ecosystem services (AES). There is a need to incorporate AES in forest management but there is considerable uncertainty about how to do so. Approaches that manage forest ecosystem services such as fiber, water and carbon sequestration independently ignore the inherent complexities of ecosystem services and their responses to management actions, with the potential for unintended consequences that are difficult to predict. The ISO 31000 Risk Management Standard is a standardized framework to assess risks to forest AES and to prioritize management strategies to manage risks within tolerable ranges. The framework consists of five steps: establishing the management context, identifying, analyzing, evaluating and treating the risks. Challenges to implementing the framework include the need for novel models and indicators to assess forest change and resilience, quantification of linkages between forest practice and AES, and the need for an integrated systems approach to assess cumulative effects and stressors on forest ecosystems and AES. In the face of recent international agreements to protect forests, there are emerging opportunities for international leadership to address these challenges in order to protect both forests and AES.
Superior Effects of Antiretroviral Treatment among Men Who have Sex with Men Compared to Other HIV At-Risk Populations in a Large Cohort Study in Hunan, China
Authors: Su Shu , Chen Xi , Mao Limin , He Jianmei , Wei Xiuqing , Jing Jun , Zhang Lei
Published: March 2016

This study assesses association between CD4 level at initiation of antiretroviral treatment (ART) on subsequent treatment outcomes and mortality among people infected with HIV via various routes in Hunan province, China. Over a period of 10 years, a total of 7333 HIV-positive patients, including 553 (7.5%) MSM, 5484 (74.8%) heterosexuals, 1164 (15.9%) injection drug users (IDU) and 132 (1.8%) former plasma donors (FPD), were recruited. MSM substantially demonstrated higher initial CD4 cell level (242, IQR 167–298) than other populations (Heterosexuals: 144 IQR 40–242, IDU: 134 IQR 38–224, FPD: 86 IQR 36–181). During subsequent long-term follow up, the median CD4 level in all participants increased significantly from 151 cells/mm3 (IQR 43–246) to 265 cells/mm3 (IQR 162–380), whereas CD4 level in MSM remained at a high level between 242 and 361 cells/mm3. Consistently, both cumulative immunological and virological failure rates (10.4% and 26.4% in 48 months, respectively) were the lowest in MSM compared with other population groups. Survival analysis indicated that initial CD4 counts ≤200 cells/mm3 (AHR = 3.14; CI, 2.43–4.06) significantly contributed to HIV-related mortality during treatment. Timely diagnosis and treatment of HIV patients are vital for improving CD4 level and health outcomes.
The Risk Factors of Child Lead Poisoning in China: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li You , Qin Jian , Wei Xiao , Li Chunhong , Wang Jian , Jiang Meiyu , Liang Xue , Xia Tianlong , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: March 2016

Background: To investigate the risk factors of child lead poisoning in China. Methods: A document retrieval was performed using MeSH (Medical subject heading terms) and key words. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess the quality of the studies, and the pooled odd ratios with a 95% confidence interval were used to identify the risk factors. We employed Review Manager 5.2 and Stata 10.0 to analyze the data. Heterogeneity was assessed by both the Chi-square and I2 tests, and publication bias was evaluated using a funnel plot and Egger’s test. Results: Thirty-four articles reporting 13,587 lead-poisoned children met the inclusion criteria. Unhealthy lifestyle and behaviors, environmental pollution around the home and potential for parents’ occupational exposure to lead were risk factors of child lead poisoning in the pooled analyses. Our assessments yielded no severe publication biases. Conclusions: Seventeen risk factors are associated with child lead poisoning, which can be used to identify high-risk children. Health education and promotion campaigns should be designed in order to minimize or prevent child lead poisoning in China.
Slaughterhouses Fungal Burden Assessment: A Contribution for the Pursuit of a Better Assessment Strategy
Authors: Viegas Carla , Faria Tiago , Dos Santos Mateus , Carolino Elisabete , Sabino Raquel , Quintal Gomes Anita , Viegas Susana
Published: March 2016

In slaughterhouses, the biological risk is present not only from the direct or indirect contact with animal matter, but also from the exposure to bioaerosols. Fungal contamination was already reported from the floors and walls of slaughterhouses. This study intends to assess fungal contamination by cultural and molecular methods in poultry, swine/bovine and large animal slaughterhouses. Air samples were collected through an impaction method, while surface samples were collected by the swabbing method and subjected to further macro- and micro-scopic observations. In addition, we collected air samples using the impinger method in order to perform real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) amplification of genes from specific fungal species, namely A. flavus, A. fumigatus and A. ochraceus complexes. Poultry and swine/bovine slaughterhouses presented each two sampling sites that surpass the guideline of 150 CFU/m3. Scopulariopsis candida was the most frequently isolated (59.5%) in poultry slaughterhouse air; Cladosporium sp. (45.7%) in the swine/bovine slaughterhouse; and Penicillium sp. (80.8%) in the large animal slaughterhouse. Molecular tools successfully amplified DNA from the A. fumigatus complex in six sampling sites where the presence of this fungal species was not identified by conventional methods. This study besides suggesting the indicators that are representative of harmful fungal contamination, also indicates a strategy as a protocol to ensure a proper characterization of fungal occupational exposure.