An algorithm to simulate the one-dimensional superelastic cyclic behavior of NiTi strings, for civil engineering applications

An algorithm to model the one-dimensional cyclic behavior of NiTi strings is addressed. The NiTi alloy belongs to the shape memory alloy class of materials, therefore it presents both shape memory effect, for thermally-induced cycling, and superelasticity, for stress-induced cycles. The superelastic property has been the basis of some devices designed to mitigate the earthquake hazard level in structures. Throughout this paper the implementation of a one-dimensional cyclic behavior algorithm to model the NiTi constitutive relation is presented, supported by the thermomechanical formulation developed by Lagoudas and co-workers. The model was set up in MatLab environment and it accounts for isothermal superelastic behavior, incorporating minor hysteretic transformation loops. The definition of the transformation hardening function allowed for a better adjustment of the numerical model weighted against experimental results. Especial emphasis was given to the process of calibration of the model, regarding the definition of material parameters. The validation process consisted of the comparison between the results achieved with this algorithm and experimental tests performed at the Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research Center at the University of California at Berkeley. Quasi-static tensile tests and shake table tests of a small-scale steel structure with NiTi cross-bracing systems were used as reference. The model was able to simulate the experimental performance. This formulation can be implemented in more robust finite element analysis software, in order to perform studies in more elaborate structures.     

Response surface modelling of the production of structured lipids from soybean oil using Rhizomucor miehei lipase

The production of structured lipids (SLs) by the acidolysis of soybean oil (SO) with a free fatty acid (FFA) mixture obtained from Brazilian sardine oil, catalysed by Rhizomucor miehei lipase (Lipozyme RM IM) in a solvent-free medium, was optimised by response surface methodology (RSM) using a three-factor central composite rotatable design. The best reaction conditions to achieve an adequate n-6/n-3 FA ratio were: sardine-FFA:SO mole ratio of 3:1, initial water content of the enzyme of 0.87% w/w, reaction time of 12 h, reaction temperature of 40 °C and 10% by weight of the enzyme (% w/w). Under these conditions, the incorporation of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) + docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) into the soybean oil reached 9.2% (% of the total FAs), leading to a significant reduction in the n-6/n-3 FA ratio from 11:1 to 3:1. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that 95% (R² = 0.95) of the observed variation was explained by the model. Lack of fit analysis revealed a non-significant value for the model equation, indicating that the regression equation was adequate for predicting the degree of EPA + DHA incorporation under any combination of values of the variables. Easy ambient sonic-spray ionisation mass spectrometry (EASI-MS) was used for instantaneous characterisation of TAGs. After the enzymatic reaction, a great variety of new TAGs were formed containing EPA, DHA or both in the same molecule.     

Functional Foods and Nondairy Probiotic Food Development: Trends,Concepts, and Products

ABSTRACT: Recently, the focus of scientific investigations has moved from the primary role of food as the source of energy and body‐forming substances to the more subtle action of biologically active food components on human health. There has been an explosion of consumer interest in the active role of food in the well‐being and life prolongation, as well as in the prevention of initiation, promotion, and development of nontransmissible chronic diseases. As a result, a new term—functional food—was proposed. Among these foods, probiotics may exert positive effects on the composition of gut microbiota and overall health, and the market is increasing annually. An increased demand for nondairy probiotic products comes from vegetarianism, milk cholesterol content, and lactose intolerance. Therefore, the development of these products is a key research priority for food design and a challenge for both industry and science sectors. This article presents an overview of functional food development, emphasizing nondairy foods that contain probiotic bacteria strains.     

The influence of therapy (sympathomimetic amines versus vasodilators) in the indexes of ejection fraction derived from an analysis of Doppler aortic flow

The purpose of this study was to map the distribution of alpha-subunits of G-proteins--Galpha(olf s), Galpha(olf), Galpha(s), Galpha(i), Galpha(o), Galpha(z) and Galpha(q11)--in developing, denervated or injured rat molar teeth, using fluorescence microscopic immunohistochemistry coupled with immunogold electron microscopic immunocytochemistry. In rat fetuses (E17-E21), a widespread expression of Galpha(q11) was seen in maxillary/mandibular mesenchyme as well as in developing teeth. In addition, intensely Galpha(o)-positive nerve fibers were associated with the dental epithelium and the dental papilla of developing teeth. Other G proteins were absent or sparsely distributed during early tooth development. In the adult tooth pulp, odontoblasts appeared to express mainly Galpha(olf s), Galpha(o), and Galpha(q11). Nerve fibers were immunoreactive to Galpha(i), Galpha(o) and Galpha(z). In addition, pulpal blood vessels expressed varying levels of Galpha(olf s) Galpha(z) and Galpha(q11) while Galpha(olf s), Galpha(olf), Galpha(o) and Galpha(q11) were found in various pulpal mesenchymal cells. After adult denervation, nerve fiber-related G-protein immunoreactivity disappeared, but no other changes in pulpal G-protein immunoreactivity were noted. Odontoblasts and mesenchyme cells were intensely Galpha(i)-positive underneath a pulpal traumatic exposure, indicating an injury-induced pulpal upregulation of Galpha(i). The findings that Galpha(i), Galpha(o) and Galpha(z) are expressed in pulpal sensory nerve fibers suggest that these G proteins participate in signal conveyance from the target to the trigeminal nerve cell body.     

Granules of osteopatite and glass-reinforced hydroxyapatite implanted in rabbit tibiae

Granules of a modified hydroxyapatite, glass-reinforced hydroxyapatite composite and commercial hydroxyapatite were implanted in rabbit tibiae. Histological studies were carried out after 1 and 2 months implantation periods using light and fluorescence microscopy. A much higher percentage of bone contact was developed for both the glass-reinforced hydroxyapatite composite and the modified hydroxyapatite when compared to commercial hydroxyapatite (89–91% versus 66%) after 2 months implantation. The mechanism of bone formation and growth around implants is discussed in terms of the influence of elements incorporated into these novel materials which are commonly found in bone tissues, such as Na, K and Mg, and the presence of a soluble -tricalcium phosphate phase in the microstructure of the composite.This paper was accepted for publication after the 1995 Conference of the European Society of Biomaterials, Oporto, Portugal, 10–13 September.     

Cell therapy for fibrotic interstitial pulmonary disease: experimental study

Parte superior do formulário Digite um texto ou endereço de um site ou traduza um documento. The aim of this study is to evaluate the histological changes in lung parenchyma of pigs affected by interstitial lung disease induced after the infusion of bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs). Ten female swines were submitted to pulmonary fibrosis induced by a single dose of intratracheal bleomicine sulfate. Animals were arranged into two groups: Group 1: induced‐disease control and Group 2: cell therapy using BMMCs. Both groups were clinically evaluated for 180 days. High‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) was performed at 90 and 180 days. BMMC sampling was performed in cell therapy group at 90 days. Euthanasia was performed, and samples were collected for histology and immunohistochemistry. The 90‐days HRCT demonstrated typical interstitial lesions in pulmonary parenchyma similarly to human disease. The 180‐days HRCT in Group 1 demonstrated advanced stages of the disease when compared with Group 2. Immunohistochemistry analysis suggests the presence of pre‐existent vessels and neoformed vessels as well as predominant young cells in the injured parenchyma of Group 2. Immunohistochemistry analysis suggests that cell therapy would promote a reconstructive response. Histology and HRCT analysis suggest a positive application of swine as a model for a bleomicine inducing of fibrotic interstitial pulmonary disease. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.     

Towards the Use of Cu–S Based Synthetic Minerals for Thermoelectric Applications

Semiconductors - Most of the energy produced is lost, mainly as waste heat. Thermoelectricity, which can directly convert heat into electricity, is seen with huge potential to recover part of such...     

First results on the combination of laser scanner and drilling resistance tests for the assessment of the geometrical condition of irregular cross-sections of timber beams

Old timber structures often present damaged elements with irregular cross-sections, hidden surfaces and even with loss of material due to decay. Within that scope, in this paper, a new methodology based on the combination of laser scanner and drilling resistance tests is proposed and developed with the aim of analyzing the apparent and resistant sections of timber beams with hidden surfaces and irregular cross-section affected by decay. The proposed methodology was initially calibrated with tests made on a timber beam within a laboratory environment and, then, its feasibility was tested on a case study regarding the timber roof of the Guimarães Castle keep. The results confirm the suitability of this methodology for assessment of the present geometrical properties of timber elements with an average error of 1.5 and 4.5%, respectively, in the calculation of the apparent section area and inertia.