• Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology
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• 제22권4호
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• pp.437-447
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• 2012

Natural and beneficial associations between plants and bacteria have demonstrated potential commercial application for several agricultural crops. The sunflower has acquired increasing importance in Brazilian agribusiness owing to its agronomic characteristics such as the tolerance to edaphoclimatic variations, resistance to pests and diseases, and adaptation to the implements commonly used for maize and soybean, as well as the versatility of the products and by-products obtained from its cultivation. A study of the cultivable bacteria associated with two sunflower cultivars, using classical microbiological methods, successfully obtained isolates from different plant tissues (roots, stems, florets, and rhizosphere). Out of 57 plant-growth-promoting isolates obtained, 45 were identified at the genus level and phylogenetically positioned based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing: 42 Bacillus (B. subtilis, B. cereus, B. thuringiensis, B. pumilus, B. megaterium, and Bacillus sp.) and 3 Methylobacterium komagatae. Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis showed a broad diversity among the Bacillus isolates, which clustered into 2 groups with 75% similarity and 13 subgroups with 85% similarity, suggesting that the genetic distance correlated with the source of isolation. The isolates were also analyzed for certain growth-promoting activities. Auxin synthesis was widely distributed among the isolates, with values ranging from 93.34 to 1653.37 ${\mu}M$ auxin per ${\mu}g$ of protein. The phosphate solubilization index ranged from 1.25 to 3.89, and siderophore index varied from 1.15 to 5.25. From a total of 57 isolates, 3 showed an ability to biologically fix atmospheric nitrogen, and 7 showed antagonism against the pathogen Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. The results of biochemical characterization allowed identification of potential candidates for the development of biofertilizers targeted to the sunflower crop.

• Molecules and Cells
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• 제39권1호
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• pp.65-71
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• 2016

A challenge in the redox field is the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms, by which $H_2O_2$ mediates signal transduction in cells. This is relevant since redox pathways are disturbed in some pathologies. The transcription factor OxyR is the $H_2O_2$ sensor in bacteria, whereas Cys-based peroxidases are involved in the perception of this oxidant in eukaryotic cells. Three possible mechanisms may be involved in $H_2O_2$ signaling that are not mutually exclusive. In the simplest pathway, $H_2O_2$ signals through direct oxidation of the signaling protein, such as a phosphatase or a transcription factor. Although signaling proteins are frequently observed in the oxidized state in biological systems, in most cases their direct oxidation by $H_2O_2$ is too slow ($10^1M^{-1}s^{-1}$ range) to outcompete Cys-based peroxidases and glutathione. In some particular cellular compartments (such as vicinity of NADPH oxidases), it is possible that a signaling protein faces extremely high $H_2O_2$ concentrations, making the direct oxidation feasible. Alternatively, high $H_2O_2$ levels can hyperoxidize peroxiredoxins leading to local building up of $H_2O_2$ that then could oxidize a signaling protein (floodgate hypothesis). In a second model, $H_2O_2$ oxidizes Cys-based peroxidases that then through thiol-disulfide reshuffling would transmit the oxidized equivalents to the signaling protein. The third model of signaling is centered on the reducing substrate of Cys-based peroxidases that in most cases is thioredoxin. Is this model, peroxiredoxins would signal by modulating the thioredoxin redox status. More kinetic data is required to allow the identification of the complex network of thiol switches.

• Nuclear Engineering and Technology
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• 제56권3호
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• pp.880-885
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• 2024

For Safety Assisted Engineering works, real-time simulators have emerged as a mandatory tool among all the key actors involved in the nuclear industry (utilities, designers and safety authorities). EDF, Electricité de France, as the leading worldwide nuclear power plant operator, has a crucial need for efficient and updated simulation tools for training, operating and safety analysis support. This paper will present the work performed at EDF/DT to develop a new generation of engineering simulator to fulfil these tasks. The project is called SiRENE, which is the acronym of Re-hosted Engineering Simulator in French. The project has been economically challenging. Therefore, to benefit from existing tools and experience, the SiRENE project combines: - A part of the process issued from the operating fleet training full-scope simulator. - An improvement of the simulator prediction reliability with the integration of High-Fidelity models, used in Safety Analysis. These High-Fidelity models address Nuclear Steam Supply System code, with CATHARE thermal-hydraulics system code and neutronics, with COCCINELLE code. - And taking advantage of the last generation and improvements of instructor station. The intensive and challenging uses of the new SiRENE engineering simulator are also discussed. The SiRENE simulator has to address different topics such as verification and validation of operating procedures, identification of safety paths, tests of I&C developments or modifications, tests on hydraulics system components (pump, valve etc.), support studies for Probabilistic Safety Analysis (PSA). etc. It also emerges that SiRENE simulator is a valuable tool for self-training of the newcomers in EDF nuclear engineering centers. As a modifiable tool and thanks to a skillful team managing the SiRENE project, specific and adapted modifications can be taken into account very quickly, in order to provide the best answers for our users' specific issues. Finally, the SiRENE simulator, and the associated configurations, has been distributed among the different engineering centers at EDF (DT in Lyon, DIPDE in Marseille and CNEPE in Tours). This distribution highlights a strong synergy and complementarity of the different engineering institutes at EDF, working together for a safer and a more profitable operating fleet.

• Advances in aircraft and spacecraft science
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• 제5권6호
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• pp.633-652
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• 2018

The present paper focuses on the development of a model for simulating the thermoelectric behavior of CNTs/CFRP Organic Matrix Composite (OMC) laminates for aeronautical applications. The model is developed within the framework of the thermodynamics of irreversible processes and implemented into commercial ABAQUS Finite Element software and validated by comparison with experimental thermoelectric tests on two types of composites materials, namely Type A with Carbon Nanotubes (CNT) and Type B without CNT. A simplified model, neglecting heat conduction, is also developed for simplifying the identification process. The model is then applied for FEM numerical simulation of the thermoelectric response of aircraft panel structures subjected to electrical loads, in order to discuss the potential danger coming from electrical solicitations. The structural simulations are performed on quasi-isotropic stacking sequences (QI) $[45/-45/90/0]_s$ using composite materials of type A and type B and compared with those obtained on plates made of metallic material (aluminum). For both tested cases-transit of electric current of intermediate intensity (9A) and electrical loading on panels made of composite material-higher heating intensity is observed in composites materials with respect to the corresponding metallic ones.

• Parasites, Hosts and Diseases
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• 제52권4호
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• pp.429-433
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• 2014

To identify sequences of Entamoeba histolytica associated with the development of amebic liver abscess (ALA) in hamsters, subtractive hybridization of cDNA from E. histolytica HM-1:IMSS under 2 growth conditions was performed: 1) cultured in axenic medium and 2) isolated from experimental ALA in hamsters. For this procedure, 6 sequences were obtained. Of these sequences, the mak16 gene was selected for amplification in 29 cultures of E. histolytica isolated from the feces of 10 patients with intestinal symptoms and 19 asymptomatic patients. Only 5 of the 10 isolates obtained from symptomatic patients developed ALA and amplified the mak16 gene, whereas the 19 isolates from asymptomatic patients did not amplify the mak16 gene nor did they develop ALA. Based on the results of Fisher's exact test (P<0.001), an association was inferred between the presence of the mak16 gene of E. histolytica and the ability to develop ALA in hamsters and with the patient's symptoms (P=0.02). The amplification of the mak16 gene suggests that it is an important gene in E. histolytica because it was present in the isolates from hamsters that developed liver damage.

• Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
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• 제49권1호
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• pp.1.1-1.18
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• 2024

The implementation of imaging methods that enable sensitive and specific observation of anatomical structures has been a constant in the evolution of endodontic therapy. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) enables 3-dimensional (3D) spatial anatomical navigation in the 3 volumetric planes (sagittal, coronal and axial) which translates into great accuracy for the identification of endodontic pathologies/conditions. CBCT interpretation consists of 2 main components: (i) the generation of specific tasks of the image and (ii) the subsequent interpretation report. A systematic and reproducible method to review CBCT scans can improve the accuracy of the interpretation process, translating into greater precision in terms of diagnosis and planning of endodontic clinical procedures. MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, Google Scholar, Embase and Scopus were searched from inception to March 2023. This narrative review addresses the theoretical concepts, elements of interpretation and applications of the CBCT scan in endodontics. In addition, the contents and rationale for reporting 3D endodontic imaging are discussed.

• 대한토목학회논문집
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• 제29권1A호
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• pp.9-18
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• 2009

본 논문은 외부 긴장된 텐던의 장력추정에 대한 차분진화기법의 적용을 소개한다. 제안된 차분진화 알고리즘의 SI기법은 기존의 구배 기반의 최적화 기법과는 다르게 전역해 탐색이 가능하다. 수치실험은 인식변수에 대한 사전정보 없이도, 제안된 차분진화기법이 외부긴장 텐던의 정확한 장력 추정뿐 아니라 유효공칭직경 추정이 가능하여 1%미만의 추정 오차를 갖는 유용한 기법임을 보여준다. 또한 긴장력 손실 유무의 사용 상태를 고려한 축소실험 모델 실험을 이용하여 제안된 기법의 타당성이 실험적으로 검증되었다. 실험의 결과는 긴장력 손실과 무관하게 정확한 장력 추정과 유효공칭직경의 추정뿐 아니라 실험 모델의 감쇠비까지 추정되어 제안된 기법이 적합하고, 효과적인 방법임을 보여준다. 유효공칭 직경의 2% 추정 오차는 실제 꼬여진 단면을 갖는 텐던의 직경과 충실단면을 갖는 FE 모델의 직경의 차이 때문이다. 마지막으로, 기존이론과의 비교 분석으로 제안된 차분진화 기법의 정확성과 우월성이 검증되었다.

• Nuclear Engineering and Technology
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• 제48권1호
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• pp.114-128
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• 2016

The development of operational performance indicators is of utmost importance for nuclear power plants, since they measure, track, and trend plant operation. Leading indicators are ideal for reducing the likelihood of consequential events. This paper describes the operational data analysis of the information contained in the Corrective Action Program. The methodology considers human error and organizational factors because of their large contribution to consequential events. The results include a tool developed from the data to be used for the identification, prediction, and reduction of the likelihood of significant consequential events. This tool is based on the resilience curve that was built from the plant's operational data. The stress is described by the number of unresolved condition reports. The strain is represented by the number of preventive maintenance tasks and other periodic work activities (i.e., baseline activities), as well as, closing open corrective actions assigned to different departments to resolve the condition reports (i.e., corrective action workload). Beyond the identified resilience threshold, the stress exceeds the station's ability to operate successfully and there is an increased likelihood that a consequential event will occur. A performance indicator is proposed to reduce the likelihood of consequential events at nuclear power plants.

• Structural Monitoring and Maintenance
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• 제1권2호
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• pp.231-247
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• 2014

This paper focuses on the dynamic behaviour of Mirandola City Hall (a XV century Renaissance Palace) that was severely damaged during May 2012 Emilia earthquake in Northern Italy. Experimental investigations have been carried out on this monumental building. Firstly, detailed investigations have been carried out to identify the identification of the geometry of the main constructional parts as well as the mechanical features of the constituting materials of the palace. Then, Ambient Vibration Tests (AVT) have been applied, for the detection of the main dynamic features. Three output-only identification methods have been compared: (i) the Frequency Domain Decomposition, (ii) the Random Decrement (RD) and the (iii) Eigensystem Realization Algorithm (ERA). The modal parameters of the Palace were difficult to be identified due to the severe structural damage; however the two bending modes in the perpendicular directions were identified. The comparison of the three experimental techniques showed a good agreement confirming the reliability of the three identification methods.

• 한국조명전기설비학회지:조명전기설비
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• 제7권6호
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• pp.34-41
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• 1993

전력 수요가 증가함에 따라 전력용 변압기의 용량이 커지고, 따라서 변압기사고의 파급효과가 커지게 된다. 본 논문은 전력용 변압기의 절연 열화에 의한 사고를 예방진단하기 위한 부분방전의 초음파 측정 기술을 응용하여, 초음파-초음파 측정법에 대한 부분방전점의 위치검출법을 연구하였다. 정확도를 높이기 위해 상호상관함수를 이용할 것을 제안하였으며 모의변압기에서 실험한 결과 만족할 만한 결과를 얻었다.