bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation Model of Multiple Cluster Fractals Cultured in Nanocomposite Polymer Electrolyte Film
Authors: Amir Shahizat , Mohamed N.S. , Hashim Ali Siti Aishah , Amir Shahrul
Published: August 2016

This work contributes to the melioration of the modeling and simulation of laboratory cultured fractals using poly (vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene)/poly (ethyl methacrylate)-ammonium trifluorome-thanesulfonate nanocomposite polymer electrolyte films as the media of growth. Main focus is given to fractals and fractal growth models particularly DLA (Diffusion Limited Aggregation). The DLA cluster formed through DLA is formed by particles moving in Brownian motion (diffusion) which meet and stick together randomly (aggregation) to form the cluster. The simulation of multiple cluster fractals is done using DLA methods incorporating different parameters such as its sticking coefficient, lattice geometry and number of particles. To compare the simulation with the real patterns obtained, one vital aspect would be the calculation of their fractal dimension values. The computer program developed is able to calculate the fractal dimension value of each of the simulated fractal patterns. Suitable fractal dimension calculation method is employed according to its usefulness and efficiency. Fractal growth modeling and simulation such as done here can contribute to the understanding of other related studies concerning fractal growth found in areas including medical (nervous systems, cancer growth and more).
Interfacial Reaction Analysis of Sn-Ag-Cu Solder Reinforced with 0.01wt% CNTs with Isothermal Aging
Authors: Azmah Hanim Mohamed Arif , Mohamad Aznan M.N. , Muhammad Raimi R. , Muhammad Azrol Amin A.
Published: August 2016

This study focused on the formation and growth of intermetallic compound (IMC) layer at the interfaces of pad finishes. The thickness of IMC layer, wetting angle, and defects such as floating IMC and voids formation after as reflow and isothermal aging were discussed. In this study, SAC237 (Sn: 99 wt.%, Ag: 0.3 wt.%, Cu: 0.7wt.%) reinforced with 0.01 wt.% of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) were soldered on Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold (ENIG) and Immersion Tin (ImSn) pad finishes. Isothermal aging at 150°C for 400h, 800h, and 1200h were conducted after as reflow process. The IMC layer were analysed using optical microscope with image analyzer. The results shows the thickness of IMC layer for both ENIG and ImSn increased as the isothermal aging period increases. The increament was found from 1.49 μm to 1.73 μm for ENIG and 2.51 μm to 5.49 μm for ImSn. Floating IMC and voids formation were also observed on both pad finishes. Wetting angle for ENIG and ImSn varied from 16.21° to 36.85° and 24.27° to 34.41° respectively.
Investigation of Micro-Raman Spectroscopy to Determine the Degree of Cure for Tiny Dot Epoxy Adhesive
Authors: Tangkijpaisarn Juthaporn , Pumkrachang Santi , bin Zainudin Syahril , Srikirin Toemsak , Osotchan Tanakorn
Published: August 2016

Epoxy adhesive has been widely used in microelectronic production process and the technique to determine the degree of tiny dot adhesive cure is essential to evaluate the products. In this work, micro Raman spectra were demonstrated to examine the adhesive curing at small diameter of about hundred micrometers. There are two Raman peaks that can be observed then modification during the curing process while it is bond to observe the change in the infrared absorption due to the background absorption. These two Raman peaks located at 1260 and 790 cm-1 due to C-C breathing and C-O-C epoxide ring vibrating, respectively. It is found that the relative peak heights decrease as a function of UV exposure time. The vibration of Raman peak for heat cure were investigated for comparison the bond vibration of epoxy was also study by DFT in term of vibration rotation analysis for both close and open epoxy ring models which used to describe the vibration before and after curing processes. The open epoxide ring model shows the reducing of epoxide peak. Relative Raman peak heights are proposed to be used for determining the degree of adhesive cure. With imaging ability of micro Raman system, the mapping of curing sample can be illustrated by setting the color map with the proposed relative Raman peak height.
Mechanical Properties and Thermal Stability of TiO2 Nanofiller Reinforced Silicone Sealants
Authors: Mandalihan Ananda Manuela S. , Sitjar Jaya L. , Magdaluyo Jr. Eduardo
Published: August 2016

Structural sealants are one of the most essential construction materials due to a rising demand of buildings having glass panel faćades. Silicones are the most preferred base component due to their excellent properties appropriate for structural applications. The effect of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanofillers on the mechanical and thermal properties of commercially available silicone-based sealants was investigated. The incorporation of 1 wt% and 2 wt% of TiO2 has caused an increase on the elongation at break SSG4000E and SilPruf SCS2000N sealants while an increase on the modulus of resilience was observed at SilPruf SCS2000N with 1wt% TiO2. The elastic modulus was highest at 5 wt% TiO2 for all sealants. Swelling behavior decreased with increasing nanofiller due to the physical crosslinking effect, thus preventing the diffusion of the solvent into the material. Thermal stability also improved with the incorporation of 2 wt% TiO2 as observed in the increase of the onset temperature of decomposition.
Wear Behavior of Biomedical Co-Cr-Mo F75 Alloys in Simulated Body Fluid
Authors: Alfirano
Published: August 2016

Pin-on-disk wear test using Co-Cr-Mo-C-N-Si-Mn cast alloy pins and alumina disks was conducted in Kokubo and 1mass% lactic acid solutions. The precipitates in the as-cast alloys were M23X6 type, π-phase and M2X type. After wear test, it was found that the ratio of the amount of eluted ions in 1mass% lactic acid solution corresponded to the chemical composition of alloys. The detached of M2X type precipitate was observed in as-cast alloy after wear test in 1mass% lactic acid solution. Meanwhile, the elution of metallic ions in Kokubo solution was much less that in 1mass% lactic acid solution. Concentration of Cr was extremely low in Kokubo solution. The formation of CrOOH during test in Kokubo solution might suppress the concentration of Cr.
Comparison of Selected Properties of Portland Cement Based Materials and Alkali Activated Materials Based on Granulated Blast Furnace Slag
Authors: Mec Pavel , Boháčová Jana , Koňařík Josef
Published: August 2016

Alkali activated systems are materials formed by alkali-activation of latent hydraulic or pozzolanic materials. The outcome is a polymeric structure with properties comparable to materials based on cement.The principle of the experiment is to compare selected properties of alkali-activated materials based on blast furnace slag and using various types of activator (sodium water glass, potassium water glass, DESIL AL and sodium metasilicate) to binders based on white and Portland cements of the highest quality. The samples were left for one year in environments simulating the conditions in the interior and exterior. Selected physical-mechanical properties were evaluated and compared.
Impact of Plasticizers on Technological Properties of Gypsum
Authors: Dolák Dušan , Dvořák Karel
Published: August 2016

Sulphate binders based on gypsum are widely used in building industry. This research work was focused on testing the influence of Melflux plasticizers on the final properties of the gypsum mixture. The aim was to determine the correct concentration of the plasticizer considering workability and improvement of mechanical properties, especially the compressive strength. Different concentrations of plasticizers were tested in mixture of alfa and beta plaster. Each batch was created as paste of normal consistency to create accurate comparison. The results of experiment show significant improvements of mechanical strength of the hardened mixture while maintaining same consistency. This knowledge can be utilized in the design of high-strength sulphate binders.
Influence of Fibre Type and Fibre Volume Fraction on Dynamic Properties of Slurry Infiltrated Fibre Concrete
Authors: Drdlová Martina , Řídký Radek , Čechmánek René
Published: August 2016

The effect of fibre type and fibre amount on physico-mechanical properties of slurry infiltrated fibre concrete (SIFCON) at both quasi-static and dynamic load was evaluated experimentally. SIFCON is a special type of cement-based composite with high fibre volume fraction, extremely strong and ductile. Test specimens were prepared with 7 types of steel fibres (with different shape and mechanical parameters) in four volume fractions (7.5-15 vol. %). High performance fibre-reinforced concrete (HPFRC) has also been cast and tested for comparison purposes. The impact test has been carried out by using an in-house manufactured impact testing machine based on drop test principle. The test results revealed that SIFCON slab with 15 vol. % fibre content exhibits superior energy-absorption characteristics when compared to other slab specimens. Diameter of the fibres plays an important role for both strength and energy absorption capacity of SIFCON - using of low-diameter fibres with higher aspect ratio leads to the best results.
Rheological and Calorimetric Characterization of the Role of CaCl2 on Portland Cement Early Hydration
Authors: Boháč Martin , Novotný Radoslav
Published: August 2016

Paper describes a new way how to characterize early hydration and setting of Portland cement pastes with various dosages of setting accelerator CaCl2. The aim was not to characterize the role of well-known setting accelerator CaCl2 but to correlate rheology and calorimetry in view of early hydration of Portland cement. Characterization was based on measurements on rotational rheometer, isothermal calorimeter and semiadiabatic calorimeter. The courses of calorimetric exotherms in time were correlated to the development of the phase angle obtained by rheological oscillation tests. Heat flow peaks can be successfully correlated to rheological processes described by change of storage and elastic moduli up to the time that corresponds to the start of the setting which was found to be the limit for rheological tests. The start of the setting on calorimetric curve belongs to the onset point of the main silicate peak during acceleration period of hydration. The value of phase angle decreases as the setting cement paste changes from liquid to solid-like. Times of low values of phase angle ~ 2.5 (°) can be related to times of onset points of main peak for every dosage of setting accelerator.
Failure of Concrete at High Temperatures - The Influence of the Type of Cement
Authors: Válek Jaroslav , Bodnárová Lenka , Novosad Petr
Published: August 2016

Experimental work verifies behavior of concrete with various types of cement and aggregate when exposed to high temperatures. Concrete samples differed in the aggregate used (two modes - basalt aggregates, lightweight aggregates), combined with four types of cement (CEM I 42.5 R – Mokrá Czech Republic, CEM II/B-M (S-LL) 32.5 R – Mokrá Czech Republic, CEM II/B-S 32.5 R – Cemex Czech Republic, CEM III/B 32.5 N-SV – Cemex Czech Republic). Properties were determined before and after thermal loading. The aim of the presented experiments was to verify behavior of different types of cement in concrete at high temperatures and the effect of various types of cement for subsequent damage concrete samples after exposure to high temperatures.
Utilization of Fly Ash in High Performance Floor Screed Based on Cement and its Influence on Physical Mechanical Properties
Authors: Fiedlerová Michaela , Drochytka Rostislav , Dohnálek Pavel
Published: August 2016

This paper deals with the evaluation of a partial replacement of cement by Czech fly ash in high strength floor screed in dosage of 10, 20, 30 and 40% and the assessment of the physical-mechanical properties such as compressive strength, water absorption and bulk density. Used fly ashes are from power plants Počerady, Opatovice and Tušimice. The experimental study showed that the use of Czech fly ash improves the compressive strength. The bulk density decreases and therefore water absorption increases. Reference samples become clearly the lowest compressive strength at age of 28 days (fc28). A significant increase in compressive strength (fc28) was observed in case of mix design with addition of 10% and 20% of fly ash Tušimice (10%ETU, 20%ETU) and 20% and 30% of fly ash Počerady (20%EPC, 30%EPC). The addition of 20% of fly ash Počerady (20%EPC) has noticeable influence on short-term compressive strength (measured at the age of 24 hours).
Optimization of Concrete with High Volume of Fly Ash
Authors: Hubáček Adam , Labaj Martin , Ťažký Martin
Published: August 2016

The demand for concrete structures grows worldwide, which raises fears about sustainable development of Portland cement production. Its carbon footprint is relatively small compared to alternative building materials, but still it is not negligible. This argument together with lower cost and possibility of utilization of material, which would otherwise be disposed as waste, lead the research towards concrete with higher content of Portland cement replaced with fly ash. The experiment is divided into two parts: the first one determines influence of high volume fly ash replacement of Portland cement on behavior and properties of cement paste and mortar. The second part optimizes composition of concrete mix, in particular the granulometry of the cement-fly ash system in order to achieve maximal possible values of mechanical properties at high dosage of fly ash.
Effect of Curing Regime on the Properties of Alkali-Activated Slag/Limestone Mortar Subjected to High Temperatures
Authors: Fialová Barbora , Rovnaník Pavel
Published: August 2016

Alkali-activated slag has a higher resistance against exposure to high temperature compared to ordinary Portland cement concrete. Nevertheless, its mechanical properties are also deteriorated due to partial decomposition of the C-A-S-H matrix. This paper investigates the effect of various curing regimes applied to the samples which were exposed to temperature 200–1200 °C on the mechanical properties and microstructure of the alkali-activated slag/limestone blends. The amount of limestone was 15% from the mass of slag. On set of specimens was treated on air at laboratory conditions, the second set was immersed in water and the last was treated stored in humid chamber with 95% relative humidity for the period of 60 days. The results showed that water curing has a strong positive influence on the compressive as well as flexural strength of the specimens exposed to temperatures up to 600 °C. Specimens which were exposed to 800 and 1000 °C showed the best performance after treatment in humid chamber, and after exposure to 1200 °C the best compressive strength exhibited the air cured samples.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Tobermorite at 170 and 190 °C from Fly Ash and Quartz Sand
Authors: Fleischhacker Ján , Helanová Ester , Drochytka Rostislav
Published: August 2016

Tobermorite is the main mineral which provides to aerated concrete mechanical properties. It is produces during hydrothermal conditions by reacting silicon and calcium oxides. Within this research was evaluated tobermorite formation using high temperature combustion fly ash and quartz sand, as the siliceous raw materials. As a binder was used lime. Emphasis was also placed on the molar ratio of C/S, which is crucial for the formation of tobermorite and was given 0.73 and 1.00. Hydrothermal synthesis was carried out in a laboratory autoclave at temperatures of 170 and 190 °C.
Using of Untreated Carbon Nanotubes in Cement Compositions
Authors: Pushkarova Kateryna , Sukhanevych Maryna , Martsikh Artur
Published: August 2016

One of the most important problem of concrete durability is increasing of waterproofing. Researches are devoted studying of cement mortars modified by carbon nanotubes, dispersed in plasticizers solutions. Were investigated physico-mechanical properties of cement paste, cement-sand mortar into which structure entered untreated carbon nanotubes (production of plant TM "Spetsmash" Kyiv, Ukraine) in various quantity. Were used as plasticizers in cement compositions additives substances of the various chemical nature – naphtaleneformaldehyde, melamineformaldehyde and polycarboxylate. Quantity of untreated nanotubes varied from 0,5%; 1,0% and to 1,5%. Concentration of additives was accepted taking into account recommendations of producers and made about 1% from the weight of cement. Were studied some technological processes of introduction untreated carbon nanotubes in cement system and is shown that the way of introduction of nanomodifiers has essential impact on strength characteristics of cementitious materials. Optimum decision introduction of untreated carbon nanotubes is using its in dispersion plasticizer of the working concentration prepared in an ultrasonic dispergator is established. Results of physico-mechanical tests of cement paste and cement-sand mortar showed positive influence at introduction of untreated carbon nanotubes as cement modifiers on strength characteristics of samples. Resalts is shown that the nanomodifier, used quantity about 1% in solution of lignosulfonate with polycarboxylate and melamineformaldehyde plasticizer has great impact on strength characteristics.
Sulfate Resistance of Alkali Activated Cements
Authors: Kryvenko Pavlo , Guzii Sergii , Kovalchuk Oleksandr Yuriyovich , Kyrychok Volodymyr
Published: August 2016

One of the most important questions of concrete durability is increasing of corrosion resistance of cement stone and materials on his basis. Perspective way of solving such problems is using of alkali activated binders.Two cement systems were investigated to obtain different materials for different application - geocement system for repair materials and protective coatings and fly ash alkali activated hybrid cement for corrosion resistant common cements and concretes.It was studied sulfate resistance of fly ash alkali activated cements after 3 years of storing in aggressive environments like 5 and 10 % solutions of sodium sulfate, 2 and 4 % solutions of magnesium sulfate and sea salt solution. It was shown that fly ash containing cements are characterized by high corrosion resistance (coefficient of corrosion resistance after 3 years of storing in aggressive environment is in the ranges 0.8...1.0) comparing with clinker cements (0.45...0.88). Shown, that high sulfate resistance of cements under study in time is caused by graduate structure development and crystallization of new formations with compacting structure of material that effect on service properties of materials.High corrosion resistance of geocement compositions (coefficient of corrosion resistance 0.9-1.05) in sulfate environment is possible because of formation of faujasite, chabasite, mordenite and nozean phases in the structure of materials. Optimal composition of geocement compositions were developed according mathematical planning of experiments and tested.
Development of Photocatalytic Self-Cleaning Cotton Fabric
Authors: Kale Bandu Madhukar , Wiener Jakub , Rwahwire Samson , Militky Jiri
Published: August 2016

Cellulose and TiO2 nanoparticles were coated on the surface of cotton fabric for photocatalytic self-cleaning. Cellulose-TiO2 dispersion was prepared by mixing TiO2 in cellulose solution (Cellulose in 60%H2SO4 solution). Surface morphology of Cellulose-TiO2 nanoparticles coated sample was analyzed in specimen by SEM. White particles appeared on the surface of the cotton fabrics confirmed that TiO2 was coated successfully. Orange II dye was used as stain and its degradation was observed under UV light. Washing study showed that self-cleaning properties are stable with 1, 3 and 5% TiO2 coated samples. Air and water vapor permeability was not decreased significantly after coating. Tensile strength also was increased significantly after coating.
Rapid Densification of Forsterite Ceramic via Microwave Sintering
Authors: Tan Yoke Meng , Tan Chou Yong , Ramesh Singh , Teh Yee Ching , Yap Boon Kar
Published: August 2016

The effect of microwave sintering on the densification of forsterite ceramic was investigated. Forsterite powder was prepared via solid-state reaction method with the application of attrition milling and heat treatment. The forsterite compacts were microwave sintered at 1100 °C to 1250 °C with 30 min holding and a ramping rate of 50 °C/min. The samples were then characterized in terms of phase stability, relative density and microstructure evaluation. This work revealed that microwave sintering is beneficial in producing dense forsterite at lower sintering temperature with shorted operating hour (< 1 hr). Highest relative density of 87.9% was successfully obtained at 1250 °C with estimated grain size of lesser than 1 μm as compared to conventional sintering.
Empirical Modeling of Sound Absorption Properties of Natural Nonwoven Fabric (Antiaris toxicaria Barkcloth)
Authors: Rwawiire Samson , Tomková Blanka , Militky Jiri , Hes Lubos , Kale Bandu Madhukar , Jabbar Abdul
Published: August 2016

The desire to mitigate climate change due to greenhouse gas emissions has led to the exploration of plant fibers as alternative materials for various industrial applications acoustics inclusive. In this investigation, sound absorption properties of barkcloth, a nonwoven fabric from Antiaris toxicaria were characterized. Theoretical empirical sound absorption models based on Delany and Bazley such as Miki, Wu and Allard – Champoux were utilized to validate the experimental data. The empirical models were in agreement with experimental data; Incorporation of an air-gap between the fabric layers had a positive influence on the overall sound absorption behavior of barkcloth fabrics rendering the fabric a good sound absorption material.
Chloride Ion Diffusion Model of the Concrete under Multiple Factors
Authors: Yuan Cheng Fang , Niu Di Tao
Published: August 2016

Durable life of concrete structures under the chloride environment depends on the permeability of chloride ion, and the chloride ion diffusion coefficient is the main indicator that reflects the permeability of chloride ion. Based on the Fick’s second law, a multi-factor model of the chloride ion diffusion is established. In this model, the influences of temperature, humidity, age of the concrete, fly ash and carbonation are taken into consideration. And the model is verified by engineering test data from the concrete structure under the wet and dry areas of marine. The results show that the calculated and measured values of the chloride ion content agree well, the actual situation of the project could be basically reflected. The multi-factor model of the chloride ion diffusion is practical.
Experimental Study on Hematite Concreting
Authors: Kahai Harjot Singh , Paliwal Mayur , Geete Sumit
Published: August 2016

High Density concrete is commonly used for radiation shielding of nuclear-reactors and other structures like counter weights, coating of off-shore pipelines. High Density concrete or is designed by using heavy weight aggregates such as hematite, magnetite, barite etc. The material is called hematite is used in this special concrete. The mix used is for OPC 43grade of cement. High density concrete can be designed in same way as normal weight concretes, but the additional self-weight should be taken into account.
Rheological Optimization of Self Compacting Concrete with Sodium Lignosulfate Based Accelerant Using Hybrid Neural Network-Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Concha Nolan C.
Published: August 2016

One of the most useful innovations in concrete technology is Self Compacting Concrete that has the ability to flow efficiently and maintain material homogeneity. The rapid change in the behavior of concrete due to accelerating admixtures can significantly affect the workability properties of the mixture and reduce its ability to flow efficiently. To describe the influence of superplasticizers blended with accelerant on the rheological properties of SCC, several mixtures were tested for Slump Flow, L-Box, and Screen Stability tests. Artificial neural network was used to obtain a model describing the constitutive relationships between the material components and workability parameters of SCC and was optimized using Genetic Algorithm. Results showed that ANN was able to establish the relationship of rheology to the concrete material components and GA derived the optimum proportion for best rheological performance. Most of the design samples of SCC with blended superplasticizer and sodium lignosulfate accelerant were not able to perform well in the flowing ability due to inefficiency of the fresh SCC to flow. The increasing dosage of accelerant however rendered strong stability between the concrete particles allowing the SCC samples to resist segregation and maintain material homogeneity.
Herpesvirus-Associated Lymphadenitis Distorts Fibroblastic Reticular Cell Microarchitecture and Attenuates CD8 T Cell Responses to Neurotropic Infection in Mice Lacking the STING-IFNα/β Defense Pathways
Authors: Royer Derek J. , Conrady Christopher D. , Carr Daniel J. J.
Published: August 2016

Type I IFN (IFN-α/β)–driven immune responses to acute viral infection are critical to counter replication and prevent dissemination. However, the mechanisms underlying host resistance to HSV type 1 (HSV-1) are incompletely understood. In this study, we show that mice with deficiencies in IFN-α/β signaling or stimulator of IFN genes (STING) exhibit exacerbated neurovirulence and atypical lymphotropic dissemination of HSV-1 following ocular infection. Synergy between IFN-α/β signaling and efficacy of early adaptive immune responses to HSV-1 were dissected using bone marrow chimeras and adoptive cell transfer approaches to profile clonal expansion, effector function, and recruitment of HSV-specific CD8+ T cells. Lymphotropic viral dissemination was commensurate with abrogated CD8+ T cell responses and pathological alterations of fibroblastic reticular cell networks in the draining lymph nodes. Our results show that resistance to HSV-1 in the trigeminal ganglia during acute infection is conferred in part by STING and IFN-α/β signaling in both bone marrow–derived and –resident cells, which coalesce to support a robust HSV-1–specific CD8+ T cell response.
The New Apostolic Reformation: The critical reflections of the ecclesiology of Charles Peter Wagner
Authors: Resane Kelebogile
Published: August 2016

Charles Peter Wagner is a well-known missiologist and ecclesiologist of the latest era. He is the author, trainer and prayer warrior who founded the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) that seeks to establish a fourth house. The NAR is a heterodox movement in Protestant Christianity sometimes known as the apostolic-prophetic movement, commonly associated with both the Pentecostal and Charismatic churches worldwide since the beginnings of the 1990s. Central to their theology is their locus of dogma that the task of the church, under the leadership of the apostles and prophets, is to take dominion of the earth within Christendom (distinct from Catholicism, Protestantism and Orthodox Christianity). The ekklesia is the people of God, whether they are gathered in their congregations on Sunday as the nuclear Church, or scattered in the workplace Monday through Saturday as the extended Church. The extended Church, just like the nuclear Church, is founded on apostles and prophets, but in the extended Church these are the different people who operate differently under a different rule book. It is these extended church leaders who will be most effective in transforming society. Workplace apostles are called to take dominion in business, government, arts and entertainment, media, family and education. Panoramically, Wagner’s ecclesiology, like mainstream evangelical ecclesiology, is trinitarian, communal, missiological and eschatological in nature and character. The weaknesses on his ecclesiology include the notions of polity based on fivefold ministries, balance of power and authority on church leadership, phenomenological approach to texts, exegetical shortcomings, and secular models in ecclesiastical governance.
Identification of latent neosporosis in sheep in Tehran, Iran by polymerase chain reaction using primers specific for the Nc-5 gene
Authors: Arbabi Mohsen , Abdoli Amir , Dalimi Abdolhossein , Pirestani Majid
Published: August 2016

Little is known about latent infection and molecular characterisation of Neospora caninum in sheep (Ovis aries). In this study, 330 sheep samples (180 hearts and 150 brains) were analysed for N. caninum DNA by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the Nc-5 gene. Neospora caninum DNA was detected in 3.9% (13/330) of sheep samples. The parasite’s DNA was detected in 6.7% of heart samples (12/180) and 0.7% (1/150) of brain samples. No clinical signs were recorded from infected or uninfected animals. Sequencing of the genomic DNA revealed 96% – 99% similarity with each other and 95.15% – 100% similarity with N. caninum sequences deposited in GenBank. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the use of PCR to identify latent neosporosis in sheep in Iran. The results of this study have the potential to contribute to our understanding of the role of N. caninum-infected sheep in the epidemiology of neosporosis.
Tryptophan Metabolism in Rat Liver after Administration of Tryptophan, Kynurenine Metabolites, and Kynureninase Inhibitors
Authors: Badawy Abdulla A.-B. , Bano Samina
Published: August 2016

Rat liver tryptophan (Trp), kynurenine pathway metabolites, and enzymes deduced from product/substrate ratios were assessed following acute and/or chronic administration of kynurenic acid (KA), 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK), 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (3-HAA), Trp, and the kynureninase inhibitors benserazide (BSZ) and carbidopa (CBD). KA activated Trp 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), possibly by increasing liver 3-HAA, but inhibited kynurenine aminotransferase (KAT) and kynureninase activities with 3-HK as substrate. 3-HK inhibited kynureninase activity from 3-HK. 3-HAA stimulated TDO, but inhibited kynureninase activity from K and 3-HK. Trp (50 mg/kg) increased kynurenine metabolite concentrations and KAT from K, and exerted a temporary stimulation of TDO. The kynureninase inhibitors BSZ and CBD also inhibited KAT, but stimulated TDO. BSZ abolished or strongly inhibited the Trp-induced increases in liver Trp and kynurenine metabolites. The potential effects of these changes in conditions of immune activation, schizophrenia, and other disease states are discussed.
A Narrative Review and Novel Framework for Application of Team-Based Learning in Graduate Medical Education
Authors: Poeppelman Rachel Stork , Liebert Cara A. , Vegas Daniel Brandt , Germann Carl A. , Volerman Anna
Published: August 2016

Background 

Team-based learning (TBL) promotes problem solving and teamwork, and has been applied as an instructional method in undergraduate medical education with purported benefits. Although TBL curricula have been implemented for residents, no published systematic reviews or guidelines exist for the development and use of TBL in graduate medical education (GME).

Objective 

To review TBL curricula in GME, identify gaps in the literature, and synthesize a framework to guide the development of TBL curricula at the GME level.

Methods 

We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, and ERIC databases from 1990 to 2014 for relevant articles. References were reviewed to identify additional studies. The inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed publications in English that described TBL curriculum implementation in GME. Data were systematically abstracted and reviewed for consensus. Based on included publications, a 4-element framework—system, residents, significance, and scaffolding—was developed to serve as a step-wise guide to planning a TBL curriculum in GME.

Results 

Nine publications describing 7 unique TBL curricula in residency met inclusion criteria. Outcomes included feasibility, satisfaction, clinical behavior, teamwork, and knowledge application.

Conclusions 

TBL appears feasible in the GME environment, with learner reactions ranging from positive to neutral. Gaps in the literature occur within each of the 4 elements of the suggested framework, including: system, faculty preparation time and minimum length of effective TBL sessions; residents, impact of team heterogeneity and inconsistent attendance; significance, comparison to other instructional methods and outcomes measuring knowledge retention, knowledge application, and skill development; and scaffolding, factors that influence the completion of preparatory work.
Kaliabu dan Salaman, Ketika Internet Telah Menjamahmu: Cerita Tentang Desainer Kampung di Indonesia
Authors: Rina Ratna Cahaya
Published: August 2016

Kaliabu and Salaman, When the Internet Touches You: The Story of Indonesia’s Village DesignersKaliabu is a remote village in the district of Salaman, far from the center of the developing Indonesian economy, that has been making appearances in Indonesian media. The region has hundreds of graphic designers who work online to create logos, picked up through design contests organized by the online design agency 99designs. While there is no doubt that learning design skills can be one way to improve socio-economic conditions in remote communities, there are many questions about the way this platform is changing the nature of the design industry. Kaliabu, sebuah desa terpencil di Kecamatan Salaman menjadi terkenal dengan sebutan Kampung setelah diliput media. Disebut demikian, karena wilayah ini memiliki ratusan desainer grafis yang bekerja secara online untuk membuat desain logo melalui kontes-kontes desain yang diselenggarakan oleh 99Designs. Hal serupa juga terjadi di Kota Kecamatan Salaman. Namun, setelah usai liputan media, tidak semua desainer melihat cara ini sebagai satu-satunya jalan untuk memperbaiki hidup. Namun tidak dipungkiri bahwa desain menjadi salah satu cara yang dapat memperbaiki sosial ekonomi masyarakat terpencil yang jauh dari pusat perekonomian Indonesia.
Application of Root Growth Endpoint in Toxicity Tests With Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)
Authors: Campagna-Fernandes Aline Fernanda , Marin Ericka Broetto , Penha Tatiana Heid Furley Libardi
Published: August 2016

Ecotoxicological tests are an important tool to assess the toxicity of chemical substances and even the deleterious effects of adverse environmental conditions to different species. Ecotoxicological studies with land plants and animals are relatively recent compared to those with aquatic species, with few studies reported focusing on terrestrial species. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the sensitivity of root growth (Total Part; Radicle, Hypocotyl) in lettuce (Lactuca sativa) to sodium chloride (NaCl), by means of exposing the seeds to concentrations of 0, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0, 8.0 and 16.0 g L-1 for five days in Petri dishes. The average effective concentration (EC50;120h) on germination was 5.73 Â± 0.56 g L-1 (CI= 4.61 to 6.86 g L-1). The effects on root growth were detected starting at a concentration of 1.0 g L-1 of NaCl and the radicle (Rad) was the most sensitive and reliable structure. Root growth was a more sensitive endpoint than germination, since the effects were detected at concentrations some 10 times lower. Besides this, the use of the radicle as an endpoint, proposed in the present study, should be intensified in ecotoxicological studies, since it provides satisfactory results at low cost and in a relatively short time frame.
Characteristics of total gaseous mercury (TGM) concentrations in an
industrial complex in South Korea: impacts from local sources
Authors: Seo Yong-Seok , Jeong Seung-Pyo , Holsen Thomas M. , Han Young-Ji , Choi Eunhwa , Park Eun Ha , Kim Tae Young , Eum Hee-Sang , Park Dae Gun , Kim Eunhye , Kim Soontae , Kim Jeong-Hun , Choi Jaewon , Yi Seung-Muk
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Total gaseous mercury (TGM) concentrations were measured every 5 min in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Korea, during summer (17–23 August 2012), fall (9–17 October 2012), winter (22–29 January 2013), and spring (26 March–3 April 2013) to (1) characterize the hourly and seasonal variations of atmospheric TGM concentrations; (2) identify the relationships between TGM and co-pollutants; and (3) identify likely source directions and locations of TGM using the conditional probability function (CPF), conditional bivariate probability function (CBPF) and total potential source contribution function (TPSCF). The TGM concentration was statistically significantly highest in fall (6.7 ± 6.4 ng m−3), followed by spring (4.8 ± 4.0 ng m−3), winter (4.5 ± 3.2 ng m−3) and summer (3.8 ± 3.9 ng m−3). There was a weak but statistically significant negative correlation between the TGM concentration and ambient air temperature (r = −0.08, p<0.05). Although the daytime temperature (14.7 ± 10.0 °C) was statistically significantly higher than that in the nighttime (13.0 ± 9.8 °C) (p<0.05), the daytime TGM concentration (5.3 ± 4.7 ng m−3) was statistically significantly higher than that in the nighttime (4.7 ± 4.7 ng m−3) (p<0.01), possibly due to local emissions related to industrial activities and activation of local surface emission sources. The observed ΔTGM ∕ ΔCO was significantly lower than that of Asian long-range transport, but similar to that of local sources in Korea and in US industrial events, suggesting that local sources are more important than those of long-range transport. CPF, CBPF and TPSCF indicated that the main sources of TGM were iron and manufacturing facilities, the hazardous waste incinerators and the coastal areas.
Atmospheric salt deposition in a tropical mountain rainforest at the eastern Andean slopes of
south Ecuador – Pacific or Atlantic origin?
Authors: Makowski Giannoni Sandro , Trachte Katja , Rollenbeck Ruetger , Lehnert Lukas , Fuchs Julia , Bendix Joerg
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Sea salt (NaCl) has recently been proven to be of the utmost importance for ecosystem functioning in Amazon lowland forests because of its impact on herbivory, litter decomposition and, thus, carbon cycling. Sea salt deposition should generally decline as distance from its marine source increases. For the Amazon, a negative east–west gradient of sea salt availability is assumed as a consequence of the barrier effect of the Andes Mountains for Pacific air masses. However, this generalized pattern may not hold for the tropical mountain rainforest in the Andes of southern Ecuador. To analyse sea salt availability, we investigated the deposition of sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl−), which are good proxies of sea spray aerosol. Because of the complexity of the terrain and related cloud and rain formation processes, sea salt deposition was analysed from both, rain and occult precipitation (OP) along an altitudinal gradient over a period between 2004 and 2009. To assess the influence of easterly and westerly air masses on the deposition of sodium and chloride over southern Ecuador, sea salt aerosol concentration data from the Monitoring Atmospheric Composition and Climate (MACC) reanalysis data set and back-trajectory statistical methods were combined. Our results, based on deposition time series, show a clear difference in the temporal variation of sodium and chloride concentration and Na+ ∕ Cl− ratio in relation to height and exposure to winds. At higher elevations, sodium and chloride present a higher seasonality and the Na+ ∕ Cl− ratio is closer to that of sea salt. Medium- to long-range sea salt transport exhibited a similar seasonality, which shows the link between our measurements at high elevations and the sea salt synoptic transport. Although the influence of the easterlies was predominant regarding the atmospheric circulation, the statistical analysis of trajectories and hybrid receptor models revealed a stronger impact of the north equatorial Atlantic, Caribbean, and Pacific sea salt sources on the atmospheric sea salt concentration in southern Ecuador. The highest concentration in rain and cloud water was found between September and February when air masses originated from the north equatorial Atlantic, the Caribbean Sea and the equatorial Pacific. Together, these sources accounted for around 82.4 % of the sea salt budget over southern Ecuador.
Tropospheric dry layers in the TropicalWestern Pacific:
Comparisons of GPS radio occultation with multiple data sets
Authors: Rieckh Therese , Anthes Richard , Randel William , Ho Shu-Peng , Foelsche Ulrich
Published: August 2016

Abstract. We use GPS Radio Occultation (RO) data to investigate the structure and temporal behavior of extremely dry, high-ozone tropospheric air in the Tropical Western Pacific during the six-week period of the CONTRAST (CONvective TRansport of Active Species in the Tropics) experiment (January and February 2014). Our analyses are aimed at testing if the RO method is capable of detecting these extremely dry layers, and evaluating comparisons with in situ measurements, satellite observations, and model analyses. We use multiple data sources as comparisons, including CONTRAST research aircraft profiles, radiosonde profiles, AIRS (Atmospheric Infrared Sounder) satellite retrievals, and profiles extracted from the ERA (ERA-Interim Reanalysis) and the GFS (US National Weather Service Global Forecast System) analyses, as well as MTSAT-2 satellite images. The independent and complementary radiosonde, aircraft, and RO data provide high vertical resolution observations of the dry layers. However, they all have limitations. The coverage of the radiosonde data is limited by having only a single station in this oceanic region; the aircraft data are limited in their temporal and spatial coverage; and the RO data are limited in their number and horizontal resolution over this period. However, nearby observations from the three types of data are highly consistent with each other and with the lower-vertical resolution AIRS profiles. They are also consistent with the ERA and GFS data. We show that the RO data, used here for the first time to study this phenomenon, contribute significant information on the water vapor content and are capable of detecting layers in the tropics and subtropics with extremely low humidity (less than 10 %), independent of the retrieval used to extract moisture information. Our results also verify the quality of the ERA data set, giving confidence to the reanalysis and its use in diagnosing the full four-dimensional structure of the dry layers.
Fate of rice shoot and root residues, rhizodeposits, and microbe-assimilated
carbon in paddy soil – Part 1: Decomposition and priming effect
Authors: Zhu Zhenke , Zeng Guanjun , Ge Tida , Hu Yajun , Tong Chengli , Shibistova Olga , He Xinhua , Wang Juan , Guggenberger Georg , Wu Jinshui
Published: August 2016

Abstract. The input of recently photosynthesized C has significant implications on soil organic C sequestration, and in paddy soils, both plants and soil microbes contribute to the overall C input. In the present study, we investigated the fate and priming effect of organic C from different sources by conducting a 300-day incubation study with four different 13C-labelled substrates: rice shoots (shoot-C), rice roots (root-C), rice rhizodeposits (rhizo-C), and microbe-assimilated C (micro-C). The efflux of both 13CO2 and 13CH4 indicated that the mineralization of C in shoot-C-, root-C-, rhizo-C-, and micro-C-treated soils rapidly increased at the beginning of the incubation and decreased gradually afterwards. The highest cumulative C mineralization was observed in root-C-treated soil (45.4 %), followed by shoot-C- (31.9 %), rhizo-C- (7.90 %), and micro-C-treated (7.70 %) soils, which corresponded with mean residence times of 39.5, 50.3, 66.2, and 195 days, respectively. Shoot and root addition increased C emission from native soil organic carbon (SOC), up to 11.4 and 2.3 times higher than that of the control soil by day 20, and decreased thereafter. Throughout the incubation period, the priming effect of shoot-C on CO2 and CH4 emission was strongly positive; however, root-C did not exhibit a significant positive priming effect. Although the total C contents of rhizo-C- (1.89 %) and micro-C-treated soils (1.90 %) were higher than those of untreated soil (1.81 %), no significant differences in cumulative C emissions were observed. Given that about 0.3 and 0.1 % of the cumulative C emission were derived from labelled rhizo-C and micro-C, we concluded that the soil organic C-derived emissions were lower in rhizo-C- and micro-C-treated soils than in untreated soil. This indicates that rhizodeposits and microbe-assimilated C could be used to reduce the mineralization of native SOC and to effectively improve soil C sequestration. The contrasting behaviour of the different photosynthesized C substrates suggests that recycling rice roots in paddies is more beneficial than recycling shoots and demonstrates the importance of increasing rhizodeposits and microbe-assimilated C in paddy soils via nutrient management.
Massive asphalt deposits, oil seepage, and gas venting support abundant
chemosynthetic communities at the Campeche Knolls, southern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Sahling Heiko , Borowski Christian , Escobar-Briones Elva , Gaytán-Caballero Adriana , Hsu Chieh-Wei , Loher Markus , MacDonald Ian , Marcon Yann , Pape Thomas , Römer Miriam , Rubin-Blum Maxim , Schubotz Florence , Smrzka Daniel , Wegener Gunter , Bohrmann Gerhard
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Hydrocarbon seepage is a widespread process at the continental margins of the Gulf of Mexico. We used a multidisciplinary approach, including multibeam mapping and visual seafloor observations with different underwater vehicles to study the extent and character of complex hydrocarbon seepage in the Bay of Campeche, southern Gulf of Mexico. Our observations showed that seafloor asphalt deposits previously only known from the Chapopote Knoll also occur at numerous other knolls and ridges in water depths from 1230 to 3150 m. In particular the deeper sites (Chapopopte and Mictlan knolls) were characterized by asphalt deposits accompanied by extrusion of liquid oil in form of whips or sheets, and in some places (Tsanyao Yang, Mictlan, and Chapopote knolls) by gas emission and the presence of gas hydrates in addition. Molecular and stable carbon isotopic compositions of gaseous hydrocarbons suggest their primarily thermogenic origin. Relatively fresh asphalt structures were settled by chemosynthetic communities including bacterial mats and vestimentiferan tube worms, whereas older flows appeared largely inert and devoid of corals and anemones at the deep sites. The gas hydrates at Tsanyao Yang and Mictlan Knolls were covered by a 5-to-10 cm-thick reaction zone composed of authigenic carbonates, detritus, and microbial mats, and were densely colonized by 1–2 m-long tube worms, bivalves, snails, and shrimps. This study increased knowledge on the occurrences and dimensions of asphalt fields and associated gas hydrates at the Campeche Knolls. The extent of all discovered seepage structure areas indicates that emission of complex hydrocarbons is a widespread, thus important feature of the southern Gulf of Mexico.