bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Nitrogen Plasma on Crystalline Structure and Optical Properties
Authors: Narksitipan Suparut
Published: January 2017

In this research, zinc oxide (ZnO) films were prepared by thermal evaporation method at temperature between 400-600°C for 60 min. Then, ZnO films were deposited by nitrogen cold plasma technique. The power, frequency and voltage of plasma generated at 100 W, 50 KHz and 5 KV, respectively. These films were deposited by plasma deposition for 15-60 min. The aim of this research is to study the effect of nitrogen plasma on the crystalline structure and optical properties of ZnO film. Crystalline structure, elemental compositions, morphological and optical properties were characterized by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and UV-VIS spectrophotometer, respectively. It was found that the ZnO films preparation via thermal evaporation method at temperature of 500°C showed the highest crystalline with hexagonal structure. After plasma deposition for 15, 30 and 60 min, ZnO films were amorphous. Optical transmittance values decreased and the optical band gap decreased from 3.14 to 3.06 eV with increasing in the plasma time.
Finite Element Simulation of Complex Thermomechanical Fatigue Evolution
Authors: El Amri Abdelouahid , Haddou M. El Yakhloufi , Khamlichi Abdelaltif
Published: January 2017

Fatigue failures occur due to the application of fluctuating stresses that are much lower than the stress required to cause failure during a single application of stress. The process is dangerous because a single application of the load would not produce any ill effects, and a conventional stress analysis might lead to assumption of safety that does not exist. The fatigue process is thought to begin at an internal or surface flaw here the stresses are concentrated, and consists initially of shear flow along slip planes. The mechanisms of fatigue-crack propagation are examined with particular emphasis on the similarities and differences between cyclic crack growth in ductile materials, such as metals, and corresponding behavior in brittle materials, such as intermetallic and ceramics. Fatigue, as understood by materials technologists, is a process in which damage accumulates due to the repetitive application of leads that may be well below the yield point.
Characteristics and Environmental Assessment of Facing Bricks Produced from Dredged Sediments and Waste Glasses
Authors: Supakata Nuta , Prachapadoong Pilaiporn , Chaisupharut Phathhanan , Papong Seksan
Published: January 2017

The laboratory-scale study was conducted to assess the feasibility of using dredged sediments with waste glasses to produce facing bricks. This study was investigated into three different proportions of waste glasses ranging from 0, 20, and 40% by weight mixed with dredged sediments as raw materials in producing facing bricks. The characteristics of the dredged sediments, waste glasses, and fired facing bricks were analyzed using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray diffraction (XRD. The physical-mechanical properties of fired bricks were compliant with the criteria for facing bricks (Thai Industrial Standards 168-2546). The results showed that major chemical compositions of dredged sediments and waste glasses were silica (SiO2) with the value of 43.50% and 70.70%, respectively. Heavy metal contents including Cr, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Hg, Pb, Mn, Sr, and Ni were lower than the soil quality standard. Results of this study indicated that dredged sediments and waste glasses are suitable as primary raw materials in the production of facing bricks and could be considered to represent an environmental friendly product.
Bond Based Peridynamic Formulation for Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Zeleke Migbar Assefa , Xin Lai , Liu Li Sheng
Published: January 2017

Modeling of heat and electrical current flow simultaneously in thermoelectric convertor using classical theories do not consider the influence of defects in the material. This is because traditional methods are developed based on partial differential equations (PDEs) and lead to infinite fluxes and stress fields at the crack tips. The usual way of solving such PDEs is by using numerical technique, like Finite Element Method (FEM). Although FEM is robust and versatile, it is not suitable to model evolving discontinuities since discontinuous fields are mathematically singular at the crack tip and required an external criterion for the prediction of crack growth. In this paper, we follow the concept of peridynamic (PD) theory to overcome the shortcomings above. Therefore, the main aim of this paper is to develop the peridynamic equations for the generalized Fourier’s and Ohm’s laws. Furthermore, we derived the peridynamic equations for the conservation of energy and charge for the coupled thermoelectric phenomena.
Optimization of Diamond-Like Carbon Thin Film on Copper Substrate for Carbon Nanotubes Synthesis by ACVD Technique
Authors: Suttichart Chotika , Boonyawan Dheerawan , Nhuapeng Wim , Thamjaree Wandee
Published: January 2017

In this research, demonstrate plasma treatment on copper substrate by Radio Frequency Plasma (RF) using a mixture of 70%C2H2 + 30%H2 as the working gases. The plasma exposure time were varied from 10, 20 and 30 min under the electrical power of 50 Watts for synthesizing the diamond-like carbon (DLC) thin film on copper substrate. Thereafter, the substrates were used for synthesizing the carbon nanotubes (CNTs) via alcohol chemical vapor deposition technique (ACVD). It could be found that the plasma treatment for 10 min exhibited the small contact angle less than those of substrates treated with 20, 30 min and untreated sample which relate to the hydrophilic and affect to improve the adhesion and distribution of catalyst on substrate. The roughness of DLC film showed the different high and low level like hillock. After that, the 10 min treatment time sample was used for synthesizing the CNTs and the results found that the obtained CNTs showed good distribution on substrate.
Optimization of Adhesive Bonds with Particle Fillers
Authors: Valášek Petr , Müller Miroslav
Published: January 2017

Micro-particle composites can find application in the area of bonded joints. Adhesive bonds rank among progressively developing technologies of material joining. Its usage is found in various industry branches, where they compete the conventional methods of material joining. Optimization of adhesive bonds is discussed topic with respect to mechanical properties as well as its price. This work describes the optimization of adhesives by way of particle micro fillers – glass powder, iron powder and aluminium powder. Shear strength of steel adherents, such as one of key mechanical properties of adhesives, was used for description of effect of inclusion of particles on adhesive. This paper evaluates filled adhesives from the mechanical properties point of view. Image analysis of adhesive bonds and fracture areas were made on stereoscopic microscope and on electron microscope.
Enhancement of the Mechanical Properties of PEBAX Graphene Nanocomposite Using Supercritical Fluid Assisted Extrusion Polymer Processing Technique
Authors: Karode Nireeksha , Fitzhenry Laurence , Matthews Siobhán , Walsh Philip , Coffey Austin
Published: January 2017

Medical tubing used in minimally invasive devices presents a number of design considerations depending on the material used, design requirements (such as sufficient stiffness, flexibility and biocompatibility) and processing conditions. Currently, manufacturing industries adopt co-extrusion systems to meet design specifications, by using multilayer configuration leading to higher cost per device and increased complexity. This paper investigates the mechanical performance of nanocomposites using supercritical carbon dioxide assisted polymer processing technique. The use of innovative medical compounds such as PEBAX graphene nanocomposites have resulted in measurable improvements in mechanical properties. This study also presents the effect of supercritical carbon dioxide on the mechanical and physical properties of the polymer matrix. The mechanical properties have been investigated using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and mechanical tensile test, where sufficient reinforcement was observed depending on the composition of graphene within PEBAX matrix. ATR-FTIR was used to further analyze the effect of supercritical carbon dioxide and interactions within the polymer composite matrix.
Implementation of Cast Steel Nodes by Considering of CTOD Value
Authors: Aumpiem Adisak , Prateepasen Asa
Published: January 2017

Cast steel nodes are being increasingly popular in steel structure joint application. Cast steel node joint consists of two parts: casting itself and the welds between the node and the steel member. The fatigue resistances of these two parts are very different. This paper presents a using of the MSF (Main Structure Farm) casting nodes S420 instead of carbon steel plate by considering the Crack Tip Opening Displacement (CTOD) value and the percentage of coarse grain. The sampling work piece from the weld and heat affected zone (HAZ) were tested and compared the CTOD value and mechanical properties to the standard. This result shows that the CTOD values are under allowable value. After that, a finite element (FEM) program was corporately used to simulate. It is acceptable cast node even the CTOD is undesirable. The benefit of the paper is to show the procedure to prove cast steel nodes by using CTOD.
Optimization of Organosolv Based Fractionation Process for Separation of High Purity Lignin from Bagasse
Authors: Cheiwpanich Sawitree , Laosiripojana Navadol , Champreda Verawat
Published: January 2017

Lignocellulosic biomass is a renewable source for sustainable production of fuels, chemicals, and other materials with the advantages on its carbon-neutral nature. Fractionation of lignocellulosic materials is a pre-requisite in the biorefinery process in order to convert the cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin to valuable products with maximized economics prospective. In this work, a modified clean fractionation (CF) process using ternary mixture system of ethyl acetate/methanol/water was studied with the use of acid promoters. H2SO4 was found to be the efficient promoter due to low cost compare to other acid promoters. The optimal fractionation conditions operated in the solvent mixture containing 0.025 M H2SO4 at 160°C for 50 min led to 63.72% recovery of the cellulose in the solid pulp while 90% and 59.94% of hemicellulose-derived products and lignin were recovered in the aqueous-alcohol and organic fractions, respectively. The enzymatic digestibility of the cellulose-enriched pulp was increased, resulting increasing glucose yield from 38.32% of the native biomass to 70.04% using the hydrolysis reaction with Cellic Ctech2® at 15 FPU/g. The work demonstrated the applicability of the modified CF process for fractionation of lignocellulose components for integrated biorefinery process.
Potential of Fly Ash Utilization for the Clinker Substitution in Cement Industry in Thailand
Authors: Sairatanathongkham Wisanu , Wangjiraniran Weerin
Published: January 2017

The main objective of this article is to forecast CO2 mitigation from clinker production and to evaluate Fly Ash potential, used Clinker Substitution for CO2 mitigation in cement industry between years 2015-2036 in Thailand following information of the Thailand's power developments plan (PDP2015). PDP2015 forecasts the potential of fly ash in the year 2036 which is estimated at 3.94 M ton and 48.76 M TonCO2 of CO2 emission from 58.01 M Ton of clinker production process. The methodology which is used for potential evaluation of fly ash and amount of CO2 can evaluate from Mae Moh power plant technology. 1 MW can occur 952.3427 Ton and amount of CO2 emission from utilizing is 0.825 TonCO2/TonneCli which is a default value of CSI (Cement Sustainability Initiative).The three different scenarios are used to analysis in this study. The condition of Business As Usual (BAU) scenario is the need of technology, used in 2015 as a base case. The full potential scenario (FP) is represent to the 100% fly ash using. The final scenario is called Zoning scenario (Z scenario) which consists of price rate (270 THB per Ton) and transportation rate (6 THB per kilometer of fly ash). From the result, in 2036 fly ash occur 7.46 M Ton that can mitigate CO2 volume up to 6.15 M TonCO2
The Formation of the Solidification Microstructure from Liquid Metal in Industrial Processes
Authors: Ridolfi Maria Rita
Published: January 2017

This paper focuses on the role played by the liquid metal management on the solidification microstructure in industrial solidification processes. In particular attention is paid to the elimination of solidification defects by governing the microstructure evolution through fluid-dynamics and heat and mass transport in the liquid. The formation of hot tearing and gas porosities as well as columnar and equiaxed microstructures and micro and macro segregation are analyzed to explain how the liquid management is used to avoid defects. Examples on continuous casting and welding are also included.A very powerful tool for dealing with the complex phenomena associated with the solidification process is numerical modeling. Its increasingly growing use contemplates fluid-dynamics of the liquid phase, mass transport of solutes and solid-liquid interface evolution. Models using phase field and volume-averaging techniques, as well as models integrating multi-physics and multi-scale phenomena, are described as their use is taking on increasing importance in the design of solidification processes.
The Behavior of Liquid Alloys Visualized by X-Rays
Authors: Arnberg Lars , Mathiesen Ragnvald H.
Published: January 2017

Developments in synchrotron and home laboratory X-ray sources and fast low noise X-ray imaging detectors over the last 15-20 years has enabled real time X-radiography of alloy solidification from the melt. These investigations have been an important tool for in–situ investigations of dendrite-, eutectic and monotectic growth, dendrite fragmentation etc. At the same time, the techniques have allowed studies of phenomena in the melt such as convection, formation of solute boundary layers and minority phase droplet interactions. The article will review the X-radiography techniques and some of the results with emphasis on studies of phenomena in alloy melts.
Effect of Superheat and Oxide Inclusions on the Fluidity of A356 Alloy
Authors: Timelli Giulio , Caliari Daniele
Published: January 2017

The effect of melt superheat and oxide inclusions on the fluidity of a commercial A356 alloy has been investigated. Fluidity measurements have been performed by means of Archimedean spiral in sand moulds. The specific testing method and the experimental apparatus show a good reproducibility. Metallographic and image analysis techniques have been used to quantitatively examine the microstructural changes and the amount of defects occurring at the tip of the spirals. The results reveal that oxide films increase the variability in the fluidity results obtained at the same apparent experimental conditions. A long permanence in the holding furnace and the introduction of some turbulence during sampling increase the oxide formation and entrapment in the molten bath, thus decreasing the repeatability of the fluidity results. The fluidity increases linearly with superheat and it extrapolates to zero at the temperature corresponding to a fraction solid of about 23%. The initial Ti content in the alloy produces an independent crystallization during freezing of the fluidity spirals.
Influence of Superfine Materials on the Vegetative Reproduction of Black Currant
Authors: Suchkova Svetlana A. , Astafurova Tatiana P. , Mikhailova Svetlana I. , Morgalev Yuri N.
Published: January 2017

We studied the influence of superfine materials on the rooting ability and development of softwood cuttings of Ribes nigrum. The inhibiting effect of the soil amended with ZnO and Pt nanoparticles at the concentration of 5 mg/kg of substrate on the rhizogenesis of black currant cuttings was stated. On adding the suspension of ZnO nanoparticles the rooting ability of cuttings decreased by 32.3 %, and under the influence of Pt nanoparticles – by 41.4 %. The decrease in the morphometric parameters of development of the cuttings’ above-ground part and roots (growth amount, number of cratches and leaves, number of roots and their length) was observed. The change in the biochemical composition of leaves in the cuttings was stated. In the replication with zinc oxide the concentration of chlorophyll in leaves significantly decreased by 21.8 %. Under the influence of Pt the concentration of flavonoids in leaves increased by 48.8 %.
Influence of Nickel Nanoparticles on Biological Activity of Humus Layer of Subboreal Forest
Authors: Lushchaeva Inna V. , Morgalev Yuri N. , Loiko Sergey V.
Published: January 2017

For the first time studied the influence of nickel nanoparticles (Ni NPs) on the integrated index of biological activity of humus soil horizons in subboreal forest after treating with a 5.0 mg/l dispersion of nanoparticles. Adding nickel nanoparticle dispersion into the soil was carried out in filtration columns. Treatment of humus soils with Ni NPs has been established to decrease total microbial number to 50 % - 65 % in CFU, stimulate nitrification in all soil samples and a suppression of nitrogen fixation in loam soils Model tests on agar media with pure cultures of Pseudomonas fluorescens and Candida sp. showed varied sensitivity of different systematic groups to nickel nanoparticles. No positive CFU decrease of Pseudomonas fluorescens was found. However, in respect to certain concentrations of Ni NPs in an experiment with Candida sp., a marked decrease of CFU was observed.
Physiological and Biochemical Parameters of Holstein Heifers when Adding to their Diet Bio-Drugs Containing Cuprum and Cobalt Nanoparticles
Authors: Makarov Petr M. , Stepanova Irina A. , Nazarova Anna A. , Polishchuk Svetlana D. , Churilov Gennadiy I.
Published: January 2017

The article presents the influence of biopreparations containing nanoparticles of cobalt and cuprum on the physiological state of Holstein heifers in a case of adding them to the diet. We have studied parameters of the animals’ growth and development in dynamics of live weight gain, clinical and biochemical blood parameters, the leucogram and amino acid composition of the experiment animals’ blood during the experiment.
Theoretical Aspects of Construction of Turning up and Loading Machine with Disinfection Option for Agricultural Waste by Carbon Nanostructures Modified Sodium Acetate
Authors: Shchegolkov Alexandr V. , Trufanov Boris S. , Hmyrov Victor D. , Kudenko Vyacheslav B. , Guryanova Yulia V. , Guryanov Dmitry V.
Published: January 2017

The present paper describes the results of the use of new technology of disinfection and processing of agricultural waste by carbon nanostructures modified sodium acetate. Improving the efficiency of processing of agricultural waste was obtained via sodium acetate in the presence of carbon nanotubes. In order to distribute the sodium acetate in the processed waste and subsequent processing of waste effectively special machines/devices were developed. The theoretical substantiation of the basic structural elements was presented for mechanical processing of agricultural waste devices. The experimental investigations showed a high efficiency of technology which led to a reduction of pathogens at the pre-processing of manure by 60%. The consumption of sodium acetate with carbon nanotubes was 50 liters per 1 ton of manure.
Influence of Biodrugs with Nanoparticles of Ferrum, Cobalt and Cuprum on Growth, Development, Yield and Phytohormone Status of Fodder and Red Beets
Authors: Churilova Veronica V. , Nazarova Anna A. , Polishchuk Svetlana D.
Published: January 2017

The article presents the influence of biopreparations containing nanoparticles of ferrum, cobalt and cuprum on fodder and red beets. We have investigated parameters of plants growth and development, the phytohormonic status of vegetating plants, the yield, its structure and chemical composition of fodder and red beets including vitamin C and carotene. We have proved ecological safety of nanopreparations on the basis of experiment area soil chemical composition. We have tried nanobiopraparations in the technology of the crops growing.
CuO Nanowhiskers-Based Photocatalysts for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Kozlov Andrey Yu. , Dorogov Maksim V. , Chirkunova Natalya V. , Sosnin Ilya M. , Vikarchuk Anatolii A. , Romanov Aleksei E.
Published: January 2017

This article described the photocatalysts for wastewater treatment based on copper oxide (II). Research results of CuO nanowhiskers photocatalytic properties are showedand a series of nanowhiskers tests on organic pollutant (methylene blue)are given. It is shown that the copper oxide nanowhiskers able to purify water from organic pollution.
Accumulation of Silver Nanoparticles in Brain and Testes during Long-Term Ingestion to Mammals
Authors: Buzulukov Yurii P. , Gmoshinski Ivan V. , Antsiferova Anna A. , Demin Vyacheslav A. , Demin Vladimir F. , Kashkarov Pavel K.
Published: January 2017

Using of silver nanoparticles in consumer goods and in medicine gives big benefits, but there is also the problem of their toxicity for health and environment. There is a lot of literature on experiments with absorption, biodistribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) of silver nanoparticles in living organisms, but low information exists yet on their accumulation in various biological organs of mammals. Previous experiments have indicated a low clearance of silver nanoparticles from organs, which have histochematic barriers, e.g brain, testes. This article reports the results of three month experiment with daily ingestion of silver nanoparticles to growing male Wistar rats. Experiment was aimed to measure silver mass accumulated in rat's brain and testes under various daily doses. The experiment shows that these organs accumulate silver nanoparticles. Сoncentration of silver nanoparticles in brain and testes after three month of daily ingestion shows dozens times increase compared to single ingestion of daily dose. The experiment demonstrates that accumulation of silver nanoparticles in brain and testes depends on value of daily dose of the nanoparticles. This dependence in brain differs from the same dependence in testes which demonstrate effect of “saturation” or less accumulation with increasing of daily dose. The results of the experiment are of great importance for estimation of toxicity of silver nanoparticles for mammals, developing of regulation documents on using of Ag NPs and for targeted transportation of pharmaceutical drugs.
Graphene-Modified Heat-Accumulating Materials and Aspects of their Application in Thermotherapy and Biotechnologies
Authors: Shchegolkov Alexandr V. , Shchegolkov Alexey V. , Galunin Evgeny V. , Popova Alena A. , Krivosheev Roman M. , Memetov Nariman R. , Tkachev Alexey G.
Published: January 2017

The present work aims at implementing heat accumulators in real technological processes and poses a problem of practical importance.Heat accumulators have been the subject of laboratory research for a long time. Several authors have obtained certain results while studying such devices, but only few of them have considered their introduction into the industrial practice. In this regard, the present research provides two directions for applying heat accumulators: thermotherapy and methane tanks.The need to stabilize temperature conditions is common to these processes. To achieve this goal, graphene-modified sodium acetate (thermal conductivity ≈5,000 W/(m K))was used herein as heat accumulator with controlled discharge mode (heat dissipation). The possibility of improving the stability of sodium acetate when introducing graphene thereinto was established. Besides,charge/discharge modes were investigated under the operating conditions of thermotherapy and methane tanks.
Tolerance of Hydrobionts to CeO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Morgalev Yuri N. , Morgaleva Tamara G. , Gosteva Irina A. , Morgalev Sergey Yu. , Nazarov Aleksey A.
Published: January 2017

Biological effects and ecotoxicity of NPs CeO2 with particle size Δ50 =16 nm and hydrobionts tolerance was measured in simulation based on test-reactions of a group of organisms representing major trophic levels of aquatic ecosystem. Biological activity of NPs CeO2 was noted against bacterial biosensor Ekolum, Сhlorella v. B.,Parameciumc., Daphniam. S. and Danior. Toxicity and hazard level of NPs CeO2 were measured using biotesting and hydrobionts. Toxicity of NPs CeO2 against luminescent bacteria Ekolum and Parameciumc. and Danior. was not established (L(E)С50 > 100 mg/l). In accordance with SGS and EC 93/67/EEC, NPs CeO2 is considered highly toxic (acute toxicity Level 1). Biomarkers and NPs CeO2 tolerant hydrobionts were determined. Range of tolerance of hydrobionts to NPs was established. The upper limit of tolerance was determined for certain hydrobionts by values of L(E)С50: 0.009 mg/l (by volume of Chl a) for Сhlorella v. B. and 46.15 mg/l (by mobility) for Daphniam. S.
Influence of Metal-Containing Nanoparticles on the Content of Photosynthetic Pigments of Unicellular Alga Chlorella vulgaris Baijer
Authors: Morgalev Yuri N. , Kurovsky Alexander V. , Gosteva Irina A. , Morgaleva Tamara G. , Morgalev Sergey Yu. , Burenina Anastasia A.
Published: January 2017

The research studies concentration effects and influence of nCeO2, nZnO, nNi and nPt on photosynthetic pigments in Chlorella v. B. in conditions of homeostated lab cultivation. It was shown that dependency of the content of chlorophylls and carotenoids in chlorella cells on concentrations of nCeO2, nZnO and nPt has non-linear dual-phase character. Growing concentrations of nNi in the culture solution caused monotone decrease of all photosynthetic pigments in chlorella cells. Adding 0.1 mg/L nZnO in the suspension caused a statistically significant increase of the chlorophyll a and b content (27.1 % and 64.2 % respectively) in comparison with the control sample. NPs Pt at 1 mg/L induced stimulating effect on chlorophylls a (17.4 % compared to the control) and b (23.6 % compared to the control) in chlorella cells. The number of carotenoids had a statistically significant decrease in chlorella cells by 25-70 % at high concentrations (1-10 mg/L) for all tested NPs.
Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles Protect Primary Embryonic Mouse Fibroblasts from Oxidative Stress Induced by Low-Temperature Argon Plasma Treatment
Authors: Popova Nelly R. , Ermakov Artem M. , Popov Anton L. , Selezneva Irina I. , Akkizov Azamat Y. , Ivanova Olga S. , Ivanov Vladimir K.
Published: January 2017

Cerium oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles are regarded as one of the most promising materials for biomedical applications. Due to their antioxidant activity CeO2 nanoparticles are capable of protecting cells from oxidative stress induced by various physical or chemical factors. In this paper we have investigated the protective effect of CeO2 nanoparticles in the model of oxidative stress induced by low-temperature argon plasma, which is characterized by multiply damaging factors, including different types of radiation (ultraviolet and infrared), free radicals and reactive oxygen species. It was shown that citrate-stabilized cerium oxide nanoparticles protect primary embryonic mouse fibroblasts from the action of plasma, maintaining a high level of cell viability.
Conjugates of α-Cobratoxin with CdSe Quantum Dots: Preparation and Biological Activity
Authors: Utkin Yuri N. , Cherepakhin Ilia Yu. , Kryukova Elena V. , Shelukhina Irina V. , Makarova Yana V. , Kasheverov Igor E. , Mukherjee Ashis K. , Gusev Alexander A. , Kuznetsov Denis V.
Published: January 2017

α-Cobratoxin is the main neurotoxin in the cobra Naja kaouthia venom; it binds efficiently and selectively with neuronal α7 and muscle type nicotinic acetylcholine receptor and can be used for specific labeling and visualization of these receptors in organs and tissues. For these applications we have prepared conjugates of α-cobratoxin with CdSe quantum dots which have many benefits as compared to organic fluorescent labels. To prepare the conjugate, CdSe quantum dots with ZnS shell were functionalized using a tripeptide glutathione and coupled to toxin using water soluble carbodiimide. The conjugate was purified by gel-filtration chromatography and tested for biological activity. It was found that conjugate preserved the capacity to interact with both neuronal α7 and muscle type nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. Its cytotoxicity to mammalian cells was not higher than that of functionalized quantum dots.
PBPK-Model Biodistribution of Gold and Silver Nanoparticles in the Body of Laboratory Animals and Humans at Different Ways of Income
Authors: Kormazeva Ekaterina S. , Soloviev Vladimir Yu.
Published: January 2017

For needs of the modern science, prediction of nanoparticles (NPs) biodistribution is necessary to avoid the disastrous consequences of its uncontrolled usage. For these purposes we have created the mathematical model of NPs’ biokinetics which can predict how much NPs would be in different organs in laboratory animals’ or human’s organism after different ways and regimes of injections. It is based on PBPK-modelling conception where the blood is the main transport of NPs and organs or tissues are proposed as compartment of NPs’ accumulation. The extrapolation from experimental data for laboratory animals to the human organism is implemented by the method of biological similarity. The special algorithm has been created to find the biokinetic constants, which allows to recreate experimental data, and it is based on the method of successive approximation by the criterion of maximum plausibility.The model is released as a computer code on the MATLAB language. There are evaluations of the model’s parameters for two experiments: for single intragastric injection in rat solutions with 35 nm silver NPs and with 8 nm gold NPs. The result of calculations is represented as graph for some organs (liver, kidney and spleen) and it could be considered as acceptable in recreation experimental data. There is also results of calculation for human organism that are got from biokinetic constants by the mechanism of extrapolation. The proposed model can be adapted for others types of metal NPs.
Graphene-Based Nanocomposites for Enhanced Pb2+ Adsorption
Authors: Kucherova Anastasiya E. , Romantsova Irina V. , Burakov Alexandr E. , Memetov Nariman R. , Krasnyansky Mikhail N.
Published: January 2017

The present paper describes an investigation of the adsorption of lead ions (Pb2+) on graphene-based nanocomposites obtained via exfoliation of hydrolyzed expanded graphite intercalation compound. Three types of these nanocomposites - suspension of graphene nanoplatelets (SGN), paste of multi-layered oxidized graphene (PMOG), and paste of few-layered oxidized graphene (PFOG) - were used to extract Pb2+ from 1,040 mg L-1 aqueous solutions of Pb (NO3)2, and the kinetic of the Pb2+ adsorption was studied. It was found that the kinetic data are best fitted by the pseudo-second-order model. The adsorption equilibrium was achieved within 30 min under normal conditions. The maximum Pb2+ adsorption capacity of SGN, PMOG and PFOG was found to be 457, 103 and 38 mg g-1, respectively. Considering the obtained results, it can be assumed that the phenolic and hydroxyl oxygen-containing functional groups located at the surface of the adsorption materials under study play an important role in the Pb2+ removal process.
Electrochemical Synthesis and Photocatalytic Activity of Differently Shaped CuOx Particles
Authors: Ulyankina Anna , Leontyev Igor , Smirnova Nina
Published: January 2017

CuOx powders with diff erently shaped particles were firstly prepared via an electrochemical method by oxidation and dispersion of copper electrodes in an electrolyte solution under pulse alternating current (PAC). By means of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) the current density is found to have an influence on the morphology and composition of CuOx particles. Photocatalytic efficiency of CuOx towards methyl orange (MO) degradation under visible light was investigated. The prepared polyhedral particles show the best photocatalytic activity of 81 % towards MO comparing to octahedral and spherical particles with 70 and 61 %, respectively.
Germicidal Adhesives with Nanoparticles of Metals for Prevention of Recurrence of Caries
Authors: Frolov Georgy A. , Karasenkov Yakov N. , Gusev Alexander A. , Zakharova Olga V. , Godymchuk Anna Yu. , Kuznetsov Denis V. , Latuta Nadezda V. , Leont'ev Valerii K.
Published: January 2017

New compositions of dental adhesives with nanoparticles of metals were developed, in order to achieve prolonged bactericidal properties. The studies were conducted on the culture of dental plaque. The observation period was 24 - 27 days. Further research was not possible due to the drying of wells with adhesives. Tantalum, aluminum, silver, vanadium, iron and copper nanoparticles were chosen as antimicrobial additives. It is shown that changing the mode of electric discharge dispersion-condensing device in a narrow range does not affect the antibacterial efficacy of the final product - the dental adhesive. It is found that tantalum nanoparticles increase the average value of shear strength in the system "filling material - adhesive - dentin" more than 40%.
Magnetic Nanopartices as Carriers for Immunoassays
Authors: Urusov Alexandr E. , Petrakova Alina V. , Zherdev Anatoly V. , Dzantiev Boris B.
Published: January 2017

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) are efficient molecular carriers for affine molecules. MNP complexes with antibodies can be used for the selective concentration and highly sensitive detection of various compounds. In this paper, development steps of the enzyme immunoassay using MNP are considered in details. Simple method of MNP synthesis and production of conjugates of antibodies with the aggregated MNP using physical sorption is presented. Simple, yet effective, formats of enzyme immunoassay are given. Using aflatoxin B1 detection as an example, possibility of decreasing detection limit up to 2 pg/mL, with a considerable decrease in the assay time, and performing immune interaction in the media with high organic content is shown.
Regenerative Heat Exchanger Based on Graphene-Modified Paraffin for Portable Respiratory Devices
Authors: Shchegolkov Alexandr V.
Published: January 2017

The present paper describes an investigation of the application of the carbon nanostructures-and graphene-modified paraffin for the heat exchange elements of means of individual protection. The thermophysical parameters of the modified material and the test benches in the mode of periodical alternation of temperature, when the oxygen with high temperature up to 250°C is produced in the cartridge (with powdered potassium superoxide) and СО2 at 36 оС is arrived from the artificial lung device, were studied.The application of graphene as the modifiers of heat storage materials for the individual protection means of respiratory organs makes it possible to improve cooling efficiency by 25-40°С to create the comfortable conditions for breathing.
Examination the Properties of Lipopeptide Liposomes Modified by Glycoconjugates
Authors: Koloskova Olesya O. , Budanova Uliana A. , Shchelik Inga C. , Shilovskii Igor P. , Khaitov Musa R. , Sebyakin Yurii L.
Published: January 2017

Development of transport systems possessing definite physicochemical and biological properties aimed at the targeted delivery of biologically active compounds remains nowadays among urgent problems of the medicine. In this work we made physical chemical and biological tests liposomal drug delivery systems modified with glycolipids for target properties.
Aetiology of Traumatic Tympanic Membrane Perforation in Ratnapura
Authors: Perera M. C. , Muruthaghapitiya M. G. P. K. , Kalupahana K. M. S. N. , Madalagama U. M. A. P. , Ekanayake W. E. M. P. L. , Perera M. P. A. H.
Published: January 2017

IntroductionTympanic membrane perforation is a condition as old as the human species. It is a common presentation in an E.N.T. unit and a frequent cause of morbidity. ObjectivesThe aim of the study is to profile the etiological factors of Traumatic Tympanic Membrane perforation occurring in Ratnapura. MethodA descriptive, prospective serial study was done at General Hospital Ratnapura. We analysed patients with tympanic membrane perforation during the study period of 6 months which started from 1st April 2015. ResultsFifty-two (52) cases of traumatic tympanic perforations were seen. There were 21(40.4%) females and 31(59.6%) males. The mean age of younger patients (<20yrs) was 15years (STD 4) and in adults (>=20yrs) it was 35yrs (STD 9.8). The commonest aetiology was due to blows to the ear (74.3%) and it commonly affects the left ear (80.8%) of the victim. The commonest symptom was hearing impairment (31%). Majority of the affected adults were females (51.4%) and the source of blow was the husband (64.3%). Conclusion and RecommendationsTraumatic Tympanic membrane perforation is a common presentation. Educating school going children and taking steps to change social attitudes against violence especially against women may help to reduce incidence of Traumatic Tympanic membrane perforation.
Patient profile, indications, complications and evaluation of septoplasty outcome in a base hospital in Sri Lanka
Authors: Rubasinghe M. S. , De Silva M. D. K. , Wanasinghe W. M. S. C. L. , De Livera R. J. K. , Wimalaratna T. P. S. K.
Published: January 2017

IntroductionA large percentage of the population has some degree of deviated nasal septum causing symptoms of nasal obstruction. Nasal septoplasty is the surgery of choice for symptomatic nasal septal deviations. ObjectiveTo describe the patient profile, indications, complications and evaluation of septoplasty outcome using Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation scale. (NOSE) Method:Interviewer administered questionnaire and data collection sheet were the study instruments used for prospective (30 subjects) and retrospective (35 subjects) components respectively. ResultsTwo thirds of the patients were in the 16-30 age group, 42% females and 48% males. 35% had a history of nasal trauma. 53% presented with allergic rhinitis and 20% with turbinate hypertrophy. More than 2/3rd presented with deviations in the Cephalic septum and S Shaped septum. 84% had dislocation from the maxillary crest. More than 90% of the subjects underwent, quadrangular cartilage trimming, vomer removal, perpendicular plate of ethmoid removal and maxillary Crest gouge. Plastic splints were used in 73% of the subjects and antibiotic was used in 26%. No septal perforations, infections or bleeding was reported from any of the 65 subjects. Pre and Post-operative (at 3 months), NOSE score was Mean 9.46; SD 4.36 and Mean 0.53; SD 0.97 respectively. When t-Test: Paired Two Sample for Means was calculated t stat was 11.7153, while t critical two tail value was 2.0452 indicating that there is a statistically significant difference between the two means (p=0.05). ConclusionSeptoplasty gave good results with minimum complications, resulting in significant improvement in disease specific quality of life.
Is fine needle aspiration thyroid cytology (THY status) a good prognostic indicator of definitive histological diagnosis?
Authors: Bahar Milhan , Varadarajan Vinay , Belloso Antonio
Published: January 2017

Although recently published research has focused on the addition of ultrasound scan findings to the evaluation of the thyroid gland, FNAC has long been the corner stone of thyroid lesion decision making. In our study population of 100 thyroidectomies we found out of those who had a cytological diagnosis of Thy 2 and underwent thyroidectomy due other compounding factors 8.57% of the had malignancy reported in their final histology report. We also found that a Right-sided solidarity thyroid nodule in a male may be an increased risk factor for malignancy. We highly recommend addition of USS staging to be included in decision making especially in benign lesions as there is still a significant risk of malignancy.
Single stage procedure to drain otogenic brain abscess using the transmastoid approach
Authors: Zaffarullah M. W.
Published: January 2017

No abstract available
Selectivity of Human TLR9 for Double CpG Motifs and Implications for the Recognition of Genomic DNA
Authors: Pohar Jelka , Yamamoto Chikako , Fukui Ryutaro , Cajnko Miša-Mojca , Miyake Kensuke , Jerala Roman , Benčina Mojca
Published: January 2017

TLR9 acts as a first-line host defense against pathogens recognizing DNA comprising unmethylated CpG motifs present in bacteria and viruses. Species- and sequence-specific recognition differences were demonstrated for TLR9 receptors. Activation of human (h)TLR9 requires a pair of closely positioned CpG motifs within oligodeoxyribonucleotides (ODNs), whereas mouse TLR9 is effectively activated by an ODN with a single CpG motif. Molecular model-directed mutagenesis identified two regions, site A and site B, as important for receptor activation. Amino acid residues Gln346 and Arg348 within site A contribute to the sequence-specific recognition by hTLR9 in determining the bias for two appropriately spaced CpG motifs within immunostimulatory ODNs. Mutation of Gln562 at site B, in combination with Gln346 and Arg348 mutations of mouse counterparts, increased activation of hTLR9 by mouse-specific ODN, mammalian genomic DNA, and bacterial DNA. We propose that the double CpG motif sequence-specificity of hTLR9 results in decreased activation by ODNs with a lower frequency of CpG motifs, such as from mammalian genomic DNA, which increases hTLR9 selectivity for pathogen versus host DNA.
Human Dendritic Cell–Derived Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Lines Are Not Immunogenic
Authors: Chhabra Arvind , Chen I-Ping , Batra Deepika
Published: January 2017

Donor-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) can be used to generate desired cell types, including naive immune effectors, for the treatment of different diseases. However, a greater understanding of the inherent immunogenicity of human iPSC and their cellular derivatives is needed for the development of safe and effective cell-replacement therapies, given that studies in mouse models claimed that the syngenic mouse iPSC lines can be immunogenic. We report the characterization of the innate and adaptive immune mechanisms in human iPSC lines derived from peripheral blood–derived dendritic cells using a nonintegrating RNA virus, Sendai virus. We show that these iPSC lines express mRNA of TLR molecules and the Ag-presentation pathway intermediates; however, these mRNA are not translated into functional proteins, and these iPSC lines do not induce TLR-mediated inflammatory cytokine responses or inflammasome activation. We also show that these iPSC lines do not activate T cells in an allogenic MLR; however, they express low levels of MHC class I molecules that can efficiently acquire antigenic peptides from their microenvironment and present them to Ag-specific T cells. In addition, we show that these iPSC lines can be efficiently differentiated into hematopoietic stem cell precursors, as well as APC, under appropriate culture conditions. Taken together, our data show that the dedifferentiation of human dendritic cells effectively shuts down their immunogenic pathways and implicates transcriptional and posttranscriptional mechanisms in this process.
The Effects of School‐Based Social Information Processing Interventions on Aggressive Behavior, Part II: Selected/Indicated Pull‐Out Programs
Authors: Wilson Sandra Jo , Lipsey Mark W.
Published: January 2017

This Campbell systematic review examines the effects of school‐based social information processing interventions on the aggressive and disruptive behavior of school‐age children specifically targeted for attention because they are judged to be at risk for such behavior (selected) or already engaged in early versions of such behavior (indicated). Program effects are examined overall and in relation to methodological and substantive differences across studies.

The search strategy identified 68 eligible reports, which reported the results of 47 unique research studies.

The researchers conclude that children who participate in this type of education programme exhibit less aggressive and disruptive behaviour than children who do not participate.
The Karoo: The Burlington House
Authors: Maritz Patricia G.
Published: January 2017

No abstract available.
Jy het 'n mooi vrou
Authors: Schaffer Alfred
Published: January 2017

No abstract available.
Countrywide Reassessment of Schistosoma mansoni Infection in Burundi Using a Urine-Circulating Cathodic Antigen Rapid Test: Informing the National Control Program
Authors: Ortu Giuseppina , Ndayishimiye Onésime , Clements Michelle , Kayugi Donatien , Campbell Carl H. , Lamine Mariama Sani , Zivieri Antonio , Magalhaes Ricardo Soares , Binder Sue , King Charles H. , Fenwick Alan , Colley Daniel G. , Jourdan Peter Mark
Published: January 2017

Following implementation of the national control program, a reassessment of Schistosoma mansoni prevalence was conducted in Burundi to determine the feasibility of moving toward elimination. A countrywide cluster-randomized cross-sectional study was performed in May 2014. At least 25 schools were sampled from each of five eco-epidemiological risk zones for schistosomiasis. Fifty randomly selected children 13–14 years of age per school were included for a single urine-circulating cathodic antigen (CCA) rapid test and, in a subset of schools, for duplicate Kato-Katz slide preparation from a single stool sample. A total of 17,331 children from 347 schools were tested using CCA. The overall prevalence of S. mansoni infection, when CCA trace results were considered negative, was 13.5% (zone range [zr] = 4.6–17.8%), and when CCA trace results were considered positive, it was 42.8% (zr = 34.3–49.9%). In 170 schools, prevalence of this infection determined using Kato-Katz method was 1.5% (zr = 0–2.7%). The overall mean intensity of S. mansoni infection determined using Kato-Katz was 0.85 eggs per gram (standard deviation = 10.86). A majority of schools (84%) were classified as non-endemic (prevalence = 0) using Kato-Katz; however, a similar proportion of schools were classified as endemic when CCA trace results were considered negative (85%) and nearly all (98%) were endemic when CCA trace results were considered positive. The findings of this nationwide reassessment using a CCA rapid test indicate that Schistosoma infection is still widespread in Burundi, although its average intensity is probably low. Further evidence is now needed to determine the association between CCA rapid test positivity and low-intensity disease transmission.