bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coupled extrusion of sub‐arc lithospheric mantle and lower crust during orogen collapse: a case study from Fiordland, New Zealand
Authors: Czertowicz T. A. , Scott J. M. , Piazolo S.
Published: March 2016

The Anita Peridotite is a ~20 km long by 1 km wide exhumed fragment of spinel facies sub‐arc lithospheric mantle that is enclosed entirely within the ≤4 km wide ductile Anita Shear Zone, and bounded by quartzofeldspathic lower crustal gneisses in Fiordland, south‐western New Zealand. Deformation textures, grain growth calculations and thermodynamic modelling results indicate the mylonitic peridotite fabric formed during rapid cooling, and therefore likely during extrusion. However, insights into the exhumation process are gained through examination of aluminous garnet‐bearing meta‐sedimentary gneisses also enclosed within the shear zone. P–T calculations indicate that prior to mylonitization the gneisses enclosing the peridotite equilibrated at 675–746 °C in the sillimanite stability field (stage I), before being buried to near the base of thickened arc crust (stage II; ~686 ± 26 °C and 10.7 ± 0.8 kbar). From this point on, the peridotite unit and the quartzofeldspathic rocks share a deformation history involving extensive recrystallization (stage III) within the Anita Shear Zone. Coupled exhumation of these portions of lower crust and upper mantle occurred during regional thinning of over‐thickened lithosphere at c. 104 Ma (U–Pb zircon). Our favoured model for the exhumation process involves heterogeneous transpressive deformation within the translithospheric Anita Shear Zone, which provided a conduit for ductile extrusion through the crust.
The autophagy‐related gene BcATG1 is involved in fungal development and pathogenesis in Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Ren Weichao , Zhang Zhihui , Shao Wenyong , Yang Yalan , Zhou Mingguo , Chen Changjun
Published: March 2016

Autophagy, a ubiquitous intracellular degradation process, is conserved from yeasts to humans. It serves as a major survival function during nutrient depletion stress and is crucial for correct growth and differentiation. In this study, we characterized an atg1 orthologue Bcatg1 in the necrotrophic plant pathogen Botrytis cinerea. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) assays showed that the expression of BcATG1 was up‐regulated under carbon or nitrogen starvation conditions. BcATG1 could functionally restore the survival defects of the yeast ATG1 mutant during nitrogen starvation. Deletion of BcATG1 (ΔBcatg1) inhibited autophagosome accumulation in the vacuoles of nitrogen‐starved cells. ΔBcatg1 was dramatically impaired in vegetative growth, conidiation and sclerotial formation. In addition, most conidia of ΔBcatg1 lost the capacity to form the appressorium infection structure and failed to penetrate onion epidermis. Pathogenicity assays showed that the virulence of ΔBcatg1 on different host plant tissues was drastically impaired, which was consistent with its inability to form an appressorium. Moreover, lipid droplet accumulation was significantly reduced in the conidia of ΔBcatg1, but the glycerol content was increased. All of the defects of ΔBcatg1 were complemented by re‐introduction of an intact copy of the wild‐type BcATG1 into the mutant. These results indicate that BcATG1 plays a critical role in numerous developmental processes and is essential to the pathogenesis of B. cinerea.
Successful treatment of recurrent Henoch–Schönlein purpura nephritis in a renal allograft with tonsillectomy and steroid pulse therapy
Authors: Yamakawa Takafumi , Yamamoto Izumi , Komatsuzaki Yo , Niikura Takahito , Okabayashi Yusuke , Katsumata Haruki , Kawabe Mayuko , Katsuma Ai , Mafune Aki , Nakada Yasuyuki , Kobayashi Akimitsu , Koike Yusuke , Miki Jun , Yamada Hiroki , Tanno Yudo , Ohkido Ichiro , Tsuboi Nobuo , Yamamoto Hiroyasu , Yokoo Takashi
Published: March 2016

We report a case of recurrent Henoch–Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSPN) treated successfully with a tonsillectomy and steroid pulse therapy in a kidney transplant patient. A 29‐year‐old woman was admitted to our hospital for an episode biopsy; she had a serum creatinine (S‐Cr) of 1.0 mg/dL and 1.34 g/day proteinuria 26 months after kidney transplantation. Histological examination revealed increased amounts of mesangial matrix and mesangial hypercellularity with IgA deposition. Of note, one glomerulus showed focal endocapillary proliferation and tuft necrosis. We diagnosed active recurrent HSPN. Considering both the histological findings and refractory clinical course of the native kidney, she was treated for 3 consecutive days with steroid pulse therapy and a tonsillectomy. The patient's proteinuria decreased gradually to less than 150 mg/day 6 months later. A second biopsy 6 years after kidney transplantation showed an excellent response to treatment and revealed a marked reduction in both the mesangial matrix and mesangial hypercellularity, with trace IgA deposition. We conclude that a tonsillectomy and steroid pulse therapy appeared to be useful in this patient with active recurrent HSPN. This paper is the first to report a tonsillectomy and steroid pulse therapy as a therapeutic option for active recurrent HSPN. Further studies are needed to elucidate the efficacy and mechanisms of tonsillectomy with recurrent HSPN in kidney transplant patients.
Kidney transplantation from a mother with unrecognized Fabry disease to her son with low α‐galactosidase A activity: A 14‐year follow‐up without enzyme replacement therapy
Authors: Odani Keiko , Okumi Masayoshi , Honda Kazuho , Ishida Hideki , Tanabe Kazunari
Published: March 2016

We report a case of kidney transplantation from mother to son, both of whom were likely to have had an unrecognized renal variant phenotype of Fabry disease. The patient was a 54‐year‐old man, with an unknown primary cause of end stage renal disease. He had no notable past medical history, other than end stage renal disease. He underwent living‐related kidney transplantation from his mother at age 40 years. Foam cells in the glomeruli were identified on histology assessment of a 0‐hour allograft biopsy, with zebra bodies identified in the glomerular visceral epithelial cells by electron microscopy. These findings were indicative of Fabry disease in the donated kidney. As a definitive diagnosis of Fabry's disease could not be confirmed, enzyme replacement therapy was not initiated. Thirteen years after kidney transplantation, the patient underwent left nephrectomy for a left renal tumour, with pathological findings of clear cell carcinoma, foam cells and zebra bodies in the native kidney. Detailed examinations identified low α‐galactosidase A activity and mutation of the α‐Gal A gene, confirming a diagnosis of a renal variant phenotype of Fabry disease. Histology of several allograft biopsies performed over the 14 years from the time of kidney transplantation revealed only moderate interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy, with no evidence of disease progression on electron microscopy, despite the presence of zebra bodies in the glomerular visceral epithelial cells.
Subclinical antibody‐mediated rejection due to anti‐human‐leukocyte‐antigen‐DR53 antibody accompanied by plasma cell‐rich acute rejection in a patient with cadaveric kidney transplantation
Authors: Katsuma Ai , Yamamoto Izumi , Komatsuzaki Yo , Niikura Takahito , Kawabe Mayuko , Okabayashi Yusuke , Yamakawa Takafumi , Katsumata Haruki , Nakada Yasuyuki , Kobayashi Akimitsu , Tanno Yudo , Miki Jun , Yamada Hiroki , Ohkido Ichiro , Tsuboi Nobuo , Yamamoto Hiroyasu , Yokoo Takashi
Published: March 2016

A 56‐year‐old man who had undergone cadaveric kidney transplantation 21 months earlier was admitted to our hospital for a protocol biopsy; he had a serum creatinine level of 1.2 mg/dL and no proteinuria. Histological features showed two distinct entities: (i) inflammatory cell infiltration, in the glomerular and peritubular capillaries and (ii) focal, aggressive tubulointerstitial inflammatory cell infiltration, predominantly plasma cells, with mild tubulitis (Banff 13 classification: i2, t1, g2, ptc2, v0, ci1, ct1, cg0, cv0). Immunohistological studies showed mildly positive C4d immunoreactivity in the peritubular capillaries. The patient had donor specific antibody to human‐leucocyte‐antigen‐DR53. We diagnosed him with subclinical antibody‐mediated rejection accompanied by plasma cell‐rich acute rejection. Both antibody‐mediated rejection due to anti‐ human‐leucocyte‐antigen ‐DR53 antibodies and plasma cell‐rich acute rejection are known to be refractory and have a poor prognosis. Thus, we started plasma exchange with intravenous immunoglobulin and rituximab for the former and 3 days of consecutive steroid pulse therapy for the latter. Three months after treatment, a follow‐up allograft biopsy showed excellent responses to treatment for both histological features. This case report considers the importance of an early diagnosis and appropriate intervention for subclinical antibody‐mediated rejection due to donor specific antibody to human‐leucocyte‐antigen‐DR53 and plasma cell‐rich acute rejection.
Reviewing the pathogenesis of antibody‐mediated rejection and renal graft pathology after kidney transplantation
Authors: Morozumi Kunio , Takeda Asami , Otsuka Yasuhiro , Horike Keiji , Gotoh Norihiko , Narumi Shunji , Watarai Yoshihiko , Kobayashi Takaaki
Published: March 2016

The clinicopathological context of rejection after kidney transplantation was well recognized. Banff conferences greatly contributed to elucidate the pathogenesis and to establish the pathologic criteria of rejection after kidney transplantation. The most important current problem of renal transplantation is de novo donor‐specific antibody (DSA) production leading chronic rejection and graft loss. Microvascular inflammation is considered as a reliable pathological marker for antibody‐mediated rejection (AMR) in the presence of DSA. Electron microscopic study allowed us to evaluate early changes in peritubular capillaries in T‐lymphocyte mediated rejection and transition to antibody‐mediated rejection. Severe endothelial injuries with edema and activated lymphocyte invaded into subendothelial space with early multi‐layering of peritubular capillary basement membrane suggest T‐lymphocyte mediated rejection induce an unbounded chain of antibody‐mediated rejection. The risk factors of AMR after ABO‐incompatible kidney transplantation are important issues. Anti‐ABO blood type antibody titre of IgG excess 32‐fold before transplant operation is the only predictable factor for acute AMR. Characteristics of chronic active antibody‐mediated rejection (CAAMR) are one of the most important problems. Light microscopic findings and C4d stain of peritubular capillary and glomerular capillary are useful diagnostic criteria of CAAMR. Microvascular inflammation, double contour of glomerular capillary and thickening of peritubular capillary basement are good predictive factors of the presence of de novo DSA. C4d stain of linear glomerular capillary is a more sensitive marker for CAAMR than positive C4d of peritubular capillary. Early and sensitive diagnostic attempts of diagnosing CAAMR are pivotal to prevent chronic graft failure.
Changes of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters in the colon of rats underwent to the wrap partial restraint stress
Authors: Traini C. , Evangelista S. , Girod V. , Faussone‐Pellegrini M.S. , Vannucchi M.G.
Published: March 2016

Background

Animal models proposed to reproduce some of the human irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms are based on the hypothesis that psychosocial stressors play a pivotal role in the IBS etio‐pathology.

We investigated the wrap restraint stress (WRS) model with the aim to analyze the morphological changes of the entire colonic wall of these animals that showed some of the human IBS symptoms such as visceral hypersensitivity.

Methods

Male Wistar rats were used and WRS was maintained for 2 h. Abdominal contractions (AC) were recorded in the colon‐rectum by balloon distension. Fecal pellets were quantitated. Colonic specimens were examined by routine histology, immunohistochemistry and western blot.

Key Results

WRS animals were characterized by: (i) increase in AC number and fecal pellets mean weight; (ii) clusters of mononucleated cells, increase in eosinophilic granulocytes and mast cells in the mucosa; (iii) increase in CGRP‐immunoreactive (IR) nerve fibers in the lamina propria; (iv) decrease in myenteric NK1r‐IR and nNOS‐IR neurons and in submucous nNOS‐IR neurons; (v) decrease in SP‐IR nerve fibers in the muscle wall; (vi) reduction in S100β‐IR glia in the entire colonic wall; (vii) increase in CRF1r‐IR myenteric neurons; (viii) no change in ChAT‐IR neurons, smooth muscle cells and interstitial cells of Cajal.

Conclusions and Inferences

The present results support the consistency of the WRS as a potential model where part of the human IBS signs and symptoms are reproduced. The changes in glial cells and in excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters might represent the substrate for the dysmotility and hypersensitivity.
GRAPHENE OXIDE-POLYETHYLENE OXIDE (PEO) FILM AS SATURABLE ABSORBER ON MODE-LOCKED ERBIUM DOPED FIBER LASER GENERATION
Authors: Haris H. , Harun S. W. , Muhammad A. R. , Arof H.
Published: March 2016

Mode-locked erbium doped fiber laser by using graphene oxide (GO) that obtained by oxidation and ultra-sonification process of natural graphite was reported. GO produced was dissolved in water and mixed with Polyethylene Oxide (PEO) to form film. When the fabricated GO-PEO film saturable was employed in the proposed EDFL configuration, the laser generates 1.25 ps pulses at a repetition rate of 21.8 MHz with pump input of 70 mW. The stable mode-locking operation was observed within pump input power of 70 mW until 175 mW. Soliton-like spectrum was achieved with prominent Kelly-sideband and centre wavelength of 1558.6 nm.
SIGNIFICANCE OF SUBSTRATE TEMPERATURE ON ELECTRICAL CONDUCTIVITY, HALL EFFECT, AND THICKNESS OF BILAYER HETEROJUCTION ORGANIC SOLAR CELL USING RHODOMYRTUS TOMENTOSA (AITON) HASSK AND IXORA COCCINEA L DYE
Authors: Laily A. R. N. , Hasiah S. , Nik Aziz N. A. , Dagang A. N. , Ghazali M. S. M.
Published: March 2016

In this work, Indium Tin oxide (ITO) glass used was 27˚C to 200˚C as substrate. The polymer used was Poly (3-Dodecylthiophene) (P3DT) thin film, Ixora coccinea L dan Rhodomyrtus tomentosa (Aiton) Hassk. as natural dye. The P3DT films were prepared using electrochemistry method at room temperature. Then, the natural dye was prepared layer by layer via spin coating method. Influence of heat treatment on the electrical properties and the efficiency of the system were investigated by Four Point Probes (FPP) under different light radiation (range of 0 Wm-2 to 200Wm-2), Hall Effect and thicknesss measurement. The electrical conductivity of the solar cell system increased with the increment of light radiations and the temperature of substrates. From Hall Effect measurement, the type of sample, Hall mobility, and highest charge carrier in the sample obtained. The thin film thickness was determined. The results show that the sample is suitable for further solar cell fabrications.
SIX BASIC STATES OF POLARIZATION EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS FOR MULTIPLE STAGE PASSIVE COMPENSATION ON SINGLE MODE OPTICAL FIBER
Authors: Md Yusof Zalhan , Shaari Sahbudin
Published: March 2016

We report a statistical approach of analyzing experimental data on three stages of passive compensations of light State of Polarization (SOP) in standard single mode optical fiber. Fidelity of every basic six SOPs which consist of two pairs of linear state of polarization and a pair of circular state of polarization were also analyzed by performing an experiment to measure the Stoke parameter of every state. Experimental results have shown that all six basic SOPs were maintained according to the state of the source at every stage of respective paths. These observations were regardless of different optical fiber length at the second stage of passive compensation. We achieved to ensure that the final destination of SOP will have similar state with its source at fidelity of above 96%.
ESTIMATION OF TEMPERATURE AND ELECTRON DENSITY IN STAINLESS STEEL PLASMA USING LASER INDUCED BREAKDOWN SPECTROSCOPY
Authors: Tan Halid Nurul Shuhada , Zainal Roslinda , Mat Daud Yaacob
Published: March 2016

LIBS plasma produced by a 1064 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser in an atmospheric pressure was studied for the stainless steel sample. The laser output energy 150 mJ with pulse duration of 6 ns. The plasma emission spectrum was recorded by the LR1 Spectrometer connected to the fibre optic. The plasma temperature and electron density of each element were estimated by time-resolved spectroscopy of neutral atom and ion line emission. The plasma temperature was obtained from the Boltzmann plot method and their electron density was determined by using Saha-Boltzmann equation method. The preliminary qualitative LIBS analysis shows that several elements contained in the stainless steel. The element detected was Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, and Cr. The results shows that Mn and Fe has the highest plasma temperature of 1.2 eV,  but the electron density of Mn was the highest with value 4.6x1020 cm-3, while the Cu has the lowest temperature that is 0.73 eV with the electron density 2.8x1017 cm-3. The results are discussed.
INVESTIGATION OF STRUCTURAL, ELECTRONIC AND THERMOELECTRIC PROPERTIES OF XCUOTE (X: BI, CE, LE) WITH GGA-WC EXCHANGE CORRELATION FUNCTIONAL
Authors: Mohd Amin Muhammad Azim Izzuddin , Ahmed R. , Shaari A. , Ul-Haq Bakhtiar , Mohamad Mazmira , Muhamad Mohamed Noor
Published: March 2016

Linearized augmented plane wave plus local orbitals (LAPW + lo) method designed within density functional theory (DFT) has been used in this study to calculate the structural, electronic and thermoelectric properties of XCuOTe (X=Bi, Ce, La). Generalized gradient approximation, Wu-Cohen (GGA-WC) parameterized exchange correlation functional, was used. The structural and electronic calculations have a good agreement with previous study. For thermoelectric calculation, semi empirical Boltzmann approach implemented in BoltzTraP package was used to calculate Seebeck coefficient, electronic conductivity as well as thermal conductivity. By referring to previous studies, the results have good agreement with them. In addition, the Seebeck coefficient of these materials was calculated as a function of the chemical potential at temperatures 300K, 600K, and 900K. Our calculations highlight suitability of these materials for applications in thermoelectric devices.
FIRST PRINCIPLES STUDY OF STRUCTURAL, ELECTRONIC AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF HALF-HEUSLER ALLOYS LIMGN, NaMGN AND KMGN
Authors: Masuri Nor Safikah , Ahmed R. , Shaari A. , Ul Haq Bakhtiar , Mohamad Mazmira , Hussain A. , Muhamad Mohamed Noor
Published: March 2016

In this study, we performed our calculations using the full-potential linearized-augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method as implemented in the WIEN2k code based on DFT. The generalized gradient functional with the Wu-Cohen (WC) parameterization was used to evaluate the structural, electronic, optical and thermoelectric properties of the materials under this study. We have calculated the structural parameters and our obtained results are in good agreement with available experimental and previous theory calculations. The density of states and band structure figures have been calculated and analyzed. The optical properties that covered by dielectric function, absorption coefficient, refractive index, extinction coefficient, reflectivity and energy-loss function have been calculated and analyzed in a range energy from 0eV to 30eV.
TUNABLE ULTRA-LONG RANDOM DISTRIBUTED FEEDBACK FIBER LASER
Authors: H. Z. Abidin Nadiah , Abu Bakar M. H. , Tamchek N. , Mahdi M. A.
Published: March 2016

A 72 km open-ended symmetrical tunable random distributed feedback fiber laser (RDB-FL) with different pumping schemes is presented in this study. The random distributed feedback was contributed by Rayleigh scattering in the single-mode fiber while distributed gain was provided by the effect of stimulated Raman scattering. The pumping schemes tested with the configuration was outward and inward pumping, where these would be backward and forward pumping in a non-symmetrical configuration of a fiber laser, respectively. The tuning range was also varied in conjunction with the different pumping schemes to determine the optimum performance. Random lasing in the RDB-FL was achieved by utilizing multiple scattering in the disordered gain medium to achieve resonance. With pump power limited to 1.5 W, the best threshold was measured as low as 1.4 W while the highest total output power was at 8 mW. In outward pumping configuration, the wavelengths that are within the maximum Raman gain (1555-1565 nm) show the best peak powers and total output power with a narrow linewidth, as low as 0.25 nm.
OPTICAL BIOSENSORS PROSPECTIVE BASED ON BRAGG GRATING POLYMER WAVEGUIDE
Authors: Mohd Salleh Mohd Hazimin , M.S Mohd Haziq , Abd Hadi Muhammad Salihi
Published: March 2016

In this work, we demonstrate the potential of Bragg grating polymer waveguide as an optical biosensor. Visible wavelength region at 650 nm is used as a centre wavelength because it is commonly used in biological and chemical sensing for both label and label-free sensing.  The Bragg polymer waveguide structure is simulated using RSoft optical design and analysis software. The results show that there is a transmission drop with a 3 dB bandwidth of 661.0 nm when the surrounding refractive index is 1.33. The specific wavelength (transmission drop) is shifted to 724.2 nm when we increased the surrounding medium into 1.43 to mimic the bioanalytes solution. Simulation result shows that the wavelength shift was approximately 63.2 nm for every 0.1 increasing of surrounding refractive index. The Bragg grating polymer waveguide was fabricated by using electron beam lithography. Then, the fabricated devices were easily integrated within microfluidic systems in order to validate the wavelength shift. From the experiments, the wavelength shift occurred approximately 20.3 nm over 0.1 increment of refractive index. The discrepancies were likely due to the accumulation of sucrose solution on top and sidewall of the sensing area, the insertion loss between input and output coupling of the waveguide interface that induced the noise to signal ratio. Where we know that, is impossible to happen in simulation. Thus both simulation and experimental results strongly indicate that Bragg grating polymer waveguide structure at visible wavelength region have a potential for label or label-free optical biosensing applications.
INVESTIGATION OF FREQUENCY NOISE AND SPECTRUM LINEWIDTH IN SEMICONDUCTOR OPTICAL AMPLIFIER
Authors: Setiawan Putra Alexander William , Makinoshima Kazuki , Yamada Minoru , Takashima Takayoshi , Ambran Sumiaty
Published: March 2016

The characteristics of FM noise and linewidth of semiconductor optical amplifier without facet mirrors were theoretically analyzed and experimentally confirmed. The concept of discrete longitudinal mode for the spontaneous emission was introduced as the basis of quantum mechanical characteristics, allowing the quantitative examination of noise sources. The continuously broaden output spectrum profile of the amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) was well explained as a spectrum broadening of each longitudinal mode. We found that the linewidth of the inputted signal light hardly changes by the optical amplification in the SOA.  The FM noise increases proportional to square value of the noise frequency and less affected by the electron density fluctuation, the linewidth enhancement factor and the ASE. The higher FM noise in the higher noise frequency is caused by the intrinsic phase fluctuation on the optical emission. The characteristics of the linewidth and the noise frequency dependency were experimentally confirmed.
DENSITY FUNCTIONAL THEORY STUDY OF THE ELECTRONIC AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF PURE AND MAGNESIUM DOPED Β-TRICALCIUM PHOSPHATE COMPOUND
Authors: Bakheet A. M. A. , Saeed M. A. , Sahnoun Riadh , Isa A. R. M. , Mohammed Lawal , Mahmood Tariq
Published: March 2016

β-Tri-calcium phosphate material (β-TCP), have attract a wide interest in the material science and medical science applications, due to its excellent biocompatibility and its identical chemical compositions to the natural teeth and bones. For that reason, (β-TCP) compound is widely used as biocompatible ceramics in medical and dental science applications. However, research shows that, pure β-TCP material has lower ability to stimulate the growth of natural bone and teeth as needed. Therefore, in order to address this deficiency magnesium impurity is used to replace calcium in the matrix of pure β-TCP to enhance its electronic and optical properties which are not present in the pure one. Thereby, its biological performance becomes improved. By changing the chemical composition of β-TCP to be similar to the mineral compositions of the natural teeth and bones. This will give more insight in fabrication of biomaterial devices for replacing, repairing and rebuilding the broken or damaged human teeth and bones. Here, we present the study of compound β-TCP using density functional theory (DFT). For the calculations, we used full potential linear augmented plane wave method (FPL-APW), along with generalized gradient approximations (GGA) potential. The band gap values of 5.2 eV and 3.4 eV are obtained for the pure and Mg-doped β-TCP, respectively. These results are in good agreement with the experimental values. Our results show peaks which correspond to the refractive index, complex dielectric function, optical conductivity, optical reflectivity, extinction coefficient, absorption efficient, and electron energy loss. These peaks are shifted towards the higher energy values for the pure and Mg-doped β-TCP material. The obtained results have more significance for increasing the quality of electronic and optical properties of this material and offer more evidences to synthesize enhanced β-TCP material for dental and medical applications.
LASER TATTOO REMOVAL COMPARISON BETWEEN 1064 AND 532 NM OF A Q-SWITCHEd Nd:YAG LASER TREATMENT
Authors: Almabrouk Imrigha Nada Abusalah , Pik Suan Lau , Islam Shumaila , Krishnan Ganesan , Bidin Noriah
Published: March 2016

Invention of the Q-switch advanced laser method is the most effective methods of tattoo removal compared to other methods of i.e. chemical, mechanical and surgical. In this study, we are reporting black pigment tattoo removal by comparing two wavelengths 532 nm and 1064 nm of Q-switched Nd-YAG laser. Using a single-pulse laser at 1064 nm wavelength, the maximum laser fluence for skin damage is 3.04 J/cm2 with pulse energy 0.55 J. While, at 532 nm wavelength, maximum laser fluence is 0.5 J/cm2 with pulse energy 0.42 J at 8-10 ns for tattooed skins. Moreover, after 1064 nm and 532 nm laser irradiations, skin biopsy of black tattooed rat’s skin demonstrates the ink granules local redistribution. Microscopic study indicates that black ink particles become smaller and vanished from the skins after 1064 nm laser treatment. The findings of this study indicate that 1064 nm wavelengths of Q-switched Nd-YAG laser treatment with 0.55 J pulse energy, is one of the significant methods of black tattoo removal with remarkable differences.
STRUCTURAL AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF SURFACTANT ASSISTED SiO2-TiO2 HYBRID MATRIX FOR PH SENSING: SOL-GEL APPROACH
Authors: Islam Shumaila , Bidin Noriah , Riaz Saira , Naseem Shahzad
Published: March 2016

Structural and optical properties of surfactant-assisted SiO2-TiO2 hybrid matrix as a highly responsive optical sensing material by sol-gel method are investigated. Microscopic results indicate the uniform morphology with large pores without any cracks. Matrices have a high surface area (489–342 m2/g), which has more capability to sense the broader pH range. From UV–visible spectroscopy, it is found that after encapsulation, matrix has ~ 78 % optical transparency with low refractive index of 1.44 corresponding to thickness 138.7 nm. Sensing analysis revealed that the prepared coating has good sensitivity at pH 12 and fast response time. Low refractive index and highly porous matrix, combined for achieving a good responsive optical chemical sensors. This research also opens an aveanue for ths material to be considered as a functional coating.
RESPONSE OF FBG-BONDED GRAPHENE PLATE AT DIFFERENT APPLIED STRESS LOCATION
Authors: Mohammed Salih Younis , Munajat Yusof , Ismail Abd. Khamim , Bakhtiar Hazri
Published: March 2016

In this study, the response of a FBG-bonded-graphene plate at different applied stress location is demonstrated. The sensing element utilized for this purpose is a 35.9-mm FBG sensor bonded onto the surface of a graphene plate. The lateral displacement is changed with corresponding increase or decrease in the FBG’s curvature. The change in center wavelength of the reflected spectrum is almost linear, without a significant hysteresis effect. It was also observed that the sensitivity of the FBG changes for location of applied stress.  Likewise, the area under the reflection curve is observed to increase with increase in strain level, indicating an increase total power reflected. This is verified by an increase in the voltage output as observed from the oscilloscope.
OPTICAL BISTABILITY CONTROLLED USING ADD-DROP MOBIUS MICRORING RESONATOR SYSTEM
Authors: Ahmad Noorden Ahmad Fakhrurrazi , Daud Suzairi , Haider Rizvi Syed Zuhaib , Ali Jalil , P. Yupapin Preecha
Published: March 2016

The theoretical investigation has been performed on the implementation of optical Mobius shape in add-drop microring resonator. The modified add-drop Mobius configuration is used to investigate the optical bistability and the spectral transmission. The optical bright soliton pulse is used as the input source of the resonator system. The pulses propagation of the resonator system is modelled using the iterative programming based on the transfer matrix analysis equations. The enhancement of nonlinear effect of the resonator system is achieved by the add-drop Mobius resonator configuration. The system has been modelled for a variation of coupling coefficient for increase the bistable signal properties. The Add-drop Mobius MRR generated a bistable signal with 6.01 mW hysteresis width, and 9.47 mW output switch power with optimized radius of 5 µm outer and 4.5 m inner ring parts with 50 mW controlled power and input power. Mobius configuration is found as the better shape of resonator cavity that capable of optical switching application.
HYDROGEN PRODUCTION VIA CATALYST OF GREEN LASER, MOLYBDENUM AND ETHANOL
Authors: Azni Siti Radhiana , Abu Bakar Mohamad Aizat , Farhana Daing Hanum , Ab Razak Siti Noraiza , Bidin Noriah
Published: March 2016

Electrolysis is an electrochemical process which is known as a green technology. Laser irradiation and the presence of catalyst in water electrolysis are identified as ways of improving the efficiency and increment of hydrogen production.  The enhancement of hydrogen production through water electrolysis is obtained by adding molybdenum to increase the current in electrochemical cell and ethanol as an agent in photochemical reaction. In addition, diode pumped solid-state laser green laser at 532 nm is employed with the purpose to compensate the residual electrical field effect. The combination of the three catalysts is found more powerful to cause water splitting, thus produced 5 times greater H2 production in comparison to the action of individual catalyst.
Response of Honeycombs Subjected to In-Plane Shear
Authors: Chen Youming , Das Raj , Battley Mark
Published: March 2016

Study on the response of honeycombs subjected to in-plane shear helps establish the constitutive relations for honeycombs and shed light on the mechanics of cellular materials. The present study explores the nonlinear elastic response of honeycombs under in-plane shear by analyzing the large deflection of cell walls in a unit cell. Governing equations are established which relate the macroscopic response of honeycombs to the deflection of cell walls. Solving these equations, the behavior of regular honeycombs under in-plane shear along horizontal (X) and vertical (Y) directions was investigated. It is found that the response of regular honeycombs under in-plane shear depends on the nondimensional shear stress which is a parameter combining the thickness-to-length ratio of cell walls, the Young's modulus of base materials, and macroscopic shear stress. Lateral shrinking is a distinctive characteristic for honeycombs under in-plane shear, which should be taken into account when establishing constitutive relations and performing simple shear experiments. Expressions for predicting the shear strength of honeycombs are formulated in this paper. It is noted that the normalized shear strength of regular honeycombs depends on two ratios: the thickness-to-length ratio of cell walls and the ratio of Young's modulus to yield strength of base materials, and the former has a dominant effect. By comparing honeycombs with cell walls of uniform thickness against honeycombs with vertical cell walls of double thickness, it is found that doubling the thickness of vertical cell walls of honeycombs increases their shear strength along horizontal (X) direction nearly twice, but does not improve the shear strength that much along the vertical (Y) direction.
A Female Ligamentous Cervical Spine Finite Element Model Validated for Physiological Loads
Authors: Östh Jonas , Brolin Karin , Svensson Mats Y. , Linder Astrid
Published: March 2016

Mathematical cervical spine models allow for studying of impact loading that can cause whiplash associated disorders (WAD). However, existing models only cover the male anthropometry, despite the female population being at a higher risk of sustaining WAD in automotive rear-end impacts. The aim of this study is to develop and validate a ligamentous cervical spine intended for biomechanical research on the effect of automotive impacts. A female model has the potential to aid the design of better protection systems as well as improve understanding of injury mechanisms causing WAD. A finite element (FE) mesh was created from surface data of the cervical vertebrae of a 26-year old female (stature 167 cm, weight 59 kg). Soft tissues were generated from the skeletal geometry and anatomical literature descriptions. Ligaments were modeled with nonlinear elastic orthotropic membrane elements, intervertebral disks as composites of nonlinear elastic bulk elements, and orthotropic anulus fibrosus fiber layers, while cortical and trabecular bones were modeled as isotropic plastic–elastic. The model has geometrical features representative of the female cervical spine—the largest average difference compared with published anthropometric female data was the vertebral body depth being 3.4% shorter for the model. The majority the cervical segments compare well with respect to biomechanical data at physiological loads, with the best match for flexion–extension loads and less biofidelity for axial rotation. An average female FE ligamentous cervical spine model was developed and validated with respect to physiological loading. In flexion–extension simulations with the developed female model and an existing average male cervical spine model, a greater range of motion (ROM) was found in the female model.
Thread Forming in Lightweight Material Joints Using Self-Tapping Screws
Authors: Wu Zhijun , Nassar Sayed A. , Jagatap Shraddha , Satav Kshitij
Published: March 2016

In this study, thread forming performance is evaluated under cyclic heating and cooling of tapped lightweight multimaterial joints in which steel self-tapping screws are used. Joint performance is assessed in terms of residual torque, pullout strength, load transfer capacity (LTC), and failure mode. Cyclic temperature fluctuates between 130 °C and −20 °C in a computer-controlled environmental chamber. Joint coupon materials are steel and Nylon polymeric material. Data analysis and discussion are provided. Analysis of experimental data provides a useful insight into design optimization of self-tapped joints.
Damp Heat Aging Behavior of a Polyamide-Based Backsheet for Photovoltaic Modules
Authors: Geretschläger Klaus J. , Wallner Gernot M. , Hintersteiner Ingrid , Buchberger Wolfgang
Published: March 2016

This paper describes and evaluates accelerated aging of a titanium dioxide (TiO2) filled polyamide (PA) based backsheet film for photovoltaic (PV) modules. Damp heat exposure (85%RH, 85 °C) was carried out up to 2000 hrs. The backsheet was characterized using microscopic, spectroscopic, thermoanalytic, chromatographic, and mechanical methods. While Raman microscopy, infrared spectroscopy in attenuated total reflection mode (IR-ATR), scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermal gravimetric analysis did not reveal aging-induced changes, significant yellowing was detected by ultraviolet visible near infrared (UV/VIS/NIR) spectroscopy. Depending on the stabilizer type (UV-absorbers, hindered amine light stabilizers (HALSs), and antioxidants), rather different consumption rates were ascertained by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC). Although the ultimate mechanical properties decreased significantly, no full embrittlement was obtained after damp heat exposure of up to 2000 hrs. The observed physical and chemical aging mechanisms were classified as within the induction period without premature failure.
On the Boundary Intensities in a Plane Parallel Slab With Linearly Varying Refractive Index
Authors: Le Dez Vital , Sadat Hamou
Published: March 2016

An exact expression of the outgoing boundary intensities in the case of a gray nonscattering semitransparent medium (STM) confined in a plane parallel slab with a refractive index linearly depending on the position is proposed. It is shown that directly using the diffuse reflection law gives in a much easier way exactly the same result as the one obtained with the pseudosource method.
Stretchable Thin Film Materials: Fabrication, Application, and Mechanics
Authors: Wang Yu , Li Zhengwei , Xiao Jianliang
Published: March 2016

Stretchable thin film materials have promising applications in many areas, including stretchable electronics, precision metrology, optical gratings, surface engineering, packaging, energy harvesting, and storage. They are usually realized by engineering geometric patterns and nonlinear mechanics of stiff thin films on compliant substrates, such as buckling of thin films on soft substrates, prefabricated wavy forms of thin films, and mesh layouts that combine structured islands and bridges. This paper reviews fabrication, application, and mechanics of stretchable thin film materials. Methods and fabrication processes of realizing stretchability in different thin films, such as semiconductors, metals, and polymers, on compliant substrates are introduced. Novel applications that are enabled by stretchable thin films are presented. The underlying mechanics of stretchable thin film materials in different systems is also discussed.
A New High Collapse OCTG Collapse Strength Model Based on Twin Shear Unified Strength Theory
Authors: Tong Hua , Guo Daqiang , Zhu Xiaohua
Published: March 2016

Drilling through and completing wells through deep and acid environment regions are technically challenging and costly. Based on twin shear unified strength theory (TSUST), a new high collapse (HC) oil country tubular goods (OCTG) collapse strength model, involving the manufacturing imperfections and significant anisotropy of the material, was developed in this paper. Comparisons of numerical calculations with full-scale test collapse data show that the new HC OCTG collapse strength model gets higher calculation accuracy for predicating HC OCTG collapse strength than both American Petroleum Institute (API) Bulletin 5C3 and ISO/TR 10400. Thus, the new HC OCTG collapse strength model will provide a more scientific method and exciting possibility for deep and acid environment wells design and construction.
A Screening Method for Prevention of Ratcheting Strain Derived From Movement of Temperature Distribution
Authors: Okajima Satoshi , Wakai Takashi , Ando Masanori , Inoue Yasuhiro , Watanabe Sota
Published: March 2016

In this paper, we simplify the existing method and propose a screening method to prevent thermal ratcheting strain in the design of practical components. The proposed method consists of two steps to prevent the continuous accumulation of ratcheting strain. The first step is to determine whether all points through the wall thickness are in the plastic state. This is based on an equivalent membrane stress, which comprises the primary stress and the secondary membrane stress. When the equivalent stress exceeds the yield strength in some regions of the cylinder, the axial lengths of these regions are measured for the second step. The second step is to determine whether the accumulation of the plastic strain saturates. For this purpose, we define the screening criteria for the length of the area with full section yield state. When this length is sufficiently small, residual stress is generated in the direction opposite to the plastic deformation direction. As a result of residual stress, further accumulation of the plastic deformation is suppressed, and finally shakedown occurs. To validate the proposed method, we performed a set of elastoplastic finite element method (FEM) analyses, with the assumption of elastic perfectly plastic material. Not only did we investigate about the effect of the axial length of the area with full section yield state but also we investigated about effects of spatial distribution of temperature, existence of primary stress, and radius thickness ratio.
Startup and Steady-State Performance of a New Renewable Hydroprocessed Depolymerized Cellulosic Diesel Fuel in Multiple Diesel Engines
Authors: Bermudez Eric , McDaniel Andrew , Dickerson Terrence , Luning Prak Dianne , Hamilton Len , Cowart Jim
Published: March 2016

A new hydroprocessed depolymerized cellulosic diesel (HDCD) fuel has been developed using a process which takes biomass feedstock (principally cellulosic wood) to produce a synthetic fuel that has nominally ½ cycloparaffins and ½ aromatic hydrocarbons in content. This HDCD fuel with a low cetane value (derived cetane number from the ignition quality tester, DCN = 27) was blended with naval distillate fuel (NATO symbol F-76) in various quantities and tested in order to determine how much HDCD could be blended before diesel engine operation becomes problematic. Blends of 20% HDCD (DCN = 45), 30%, 40% (DCN = 41), and 60% HDCD (DCN = 37) by volume were tested with conventional naval distillate fuel (DCN = 49). Engine start performance was evaluated with a conventional mechanically direct injected (DI) Yanmar engine and a Waukesha mechanical indirect injected (IDI) Cooperative Fuels Research (CFR) diesel engine and showed that engine start times increased steadily with increasing HDCD content. Longer start times with increasing HDCD content were the result of some engine cycles with poor combustion leading to a slower rate of engine acceleration toward rated speed. A repeating sequence of alternating cycles which combust followed by a noncombustion cycle was common during engine run-up. Additionally, steady-state engine testing was also performed using both engines. HDCD has a significantly higher bulk modulus than F76 due to its very high aromatic content, and the engines showed earlier start of injection (SOI) timing with increasing HDCD content for equivalent operating conditions. Additionally, due to the lower DCN, the higher HDCD blends showed moderately longer ignition delay (IGD) with moderately shorter overall burn durations. Thus, the midcombustion metric (CA50: 50% burn duration crank angle position) was only modestly affected with increasing HDCD content. Increasing HDCD content beyond 40% leads to significantly longer start times.
Dynamic Parameter Identification of Subject-Specific Body Segment Parameters Using Robotics Formalism: Case Study Head Complex
Authors: Díaz-Rodríguez Miguel , Valera Angel , Page Alvaro , Besa Antonio , Mata Vicente
Published: March 2016

Accurate knowledge of body segment inertia parameters (BSIP) improves the assessment of dynamic analysis based on biomechanical models, which is of paramount importance in fields such as sport activities or impact crash test. Early approaches for BSIP identification rely on the experiments conducted on cadavers or through imaging techniques conducted on living subjects. Recent approaches for BSIP identification rely on inverse dynamic modeling. However, most of the approaches are focused on the entire body, and verification of BSIP for dynamic analysis for distal segment or chain of segments, which has proven to be of significant importance in impact test studies, is rarely established. Previous studies have suggested that BSIP should be obtained by using subject-specific identification techniques. To this end, our paper develops a novel approach for estimating subject-specific BSIP based on static and dynamics identification models (SIM, DIM). We test the validity of SIM and DIM by comparing the results using parameters obtained from a regression model proposed by De Leva (1996, “Adjustments to Zatsiorsky-Seluyanov's Segment Inertia Parameters,” J. Biomech., 29(9), pp. 1223–1230). Both SIM and DIM are developed considering robotics formalism. First, the static model allows the mass and center of gravity (COG) to be estimated. Second, the results from the static model are included in the dynamics equation allowing us to estimate the moment of inertia (MOI). As a case study, we applied the approach to evaluate the dynamics modeling of the head complex. Findings provide some insight into the validity not only of the proposed method but also of the application proposed by De Leva (1996, “Adjustments to Zatsiorsky-Seluyanov's Segment Inertia Parameters,” J. Biomech., 29(9), pp. 1223–1230) for dynamic modeling of body segments.
Numerical Investigation of Evaporation Induced Self-Assembly of Sub-Micron Particles Suspended in Water
Authors: Tayeb Raihan , Mao Yijin , Zhang Yuwen
Published: March 2016

Self-assembly of sub-micron particles suspended in a water film is investigated numerically. The liquid medium is allowed to evaporate leaving only the sub-micron particles. A coupled CFD-DEM approach is used for the simulation of fluid-particle interaction. Momentum exchange and heat transfer between particles and fluid and among particles are considered. A history dependent contact model is used to compute the contact force among sub-micron particles. Simulation is done using the open source software package CFDEM which basically comprises of two other open source packages OpenFOAM and LIGGGHTS. OpenFOAM is a widely used solver for CFD related problems. LIGGGHTS, a modification of LAMMPS, is used for DEM simulation of granular materials. The final packing structure of the sub-micron particles is discussed in terms of distribution of coordination number and radial distribution function (RDF). The final packing structure shows that particles form clusters and exhibit a definite pattern as water evaporates away.