bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Canada in Galicia? Or Galicia in Canada? Translating Erín Moure
Authors: Martín-Lucas Belén , Moure Erín , Reimóndez María
Published: October 2019

Although “[c]urrent copyright law ensures that translation projects will be driven by publishers, not by translators” (Venuti 1998, 48), minority-language literary systems such as the Galician one in Spain –in unbalanced competition with the globalized hegemonic system of the Spanish language–, give more room to the influence of what Sandra Ponzanesi defined as “relatively neglected agents of literature-making”, including academics and other authors (2006, 112), but also reputed translators who may be authors and/or academics themselves. We propose to examine here the confluence of interests operating in the circulation of Erín Moure’s poetry and essays in Galicia, her incorporation of Galician culture and language to her own production published in Canada, and her role as translator of Galician poetry into English. Our essay will be a dialogue with three implicated voices that will pay attention to the agents intervening in this particular process of cultural transfers between Canada and Galicia, including the academic context provided by the diverse conferences and seminars organized at the U. of Vigo by Belén Martín-Lucas that propitiated the encounters of Moure with poet Chus Pato and author/translator María Reimóndez; the role of Chus Pato as promoter of the translation of Moure’s work in Galicia; Reimóndez’s decisions as translator of Teatriños (2007); and the ongoing creative process of collaboration, influence and interest that has led Moure to translate Pato for Anglophone readers. This bidirectional cultural interaction is thus participating in a transnational Galician culture that recognizes Erín Moure as a “diasporic Galician in Canada”, at the same time that her critics and readers treasure Moure’s contribution to a transnational Canada. It is also the product of a shared belief in transnational feminist cooperation and creativity interweaving women in diverse contexts.
Back in the USSR: Memoir
Authors: Mierau Maurice
Published: October 2019

Excerpt from: Back in the USSR: Memoir by Maurice Mierau
TENDÊNCIAS ANTIDEMOCRÁTICAS EM PARTIDOS POLÍTICOS DE UM MUNICÍPIO PAULISTA
Authors: Lima Paul Anderson de , Brisola Elisa Maria Andrade , Silva André Luiz da
Published: October 2019

Do ponto de vista prático as agremiações políticas sofrem acentuados desprestígios fáticos. No Brasil contemporâneo observa-se o desapreço pelas agremiações políticas. O artigo baseia-se na pesquisa de mestrado cujo objetivo geral foi identificar a existência - ou não - de inclinações antidemocráticas nos partidos, no âmbito interno, pelos próceres, se existem vícios e, em caso positivo, quais são e se as eventuais práticas contribuem com o desprestígio atual das agremiações políticas. A pesquisa de abordagem qualitativa com o uso da História Oral realizou entrevistas com 03 (três) atores de agremiações políticas, vinculados aos partidos do MDB, PSDB e PT, com experiências na burocracia interna de escolha de candidatos majoritários ao sufrágio municipal. Para fins deste artigo analisamos as tendências antidemocráticas constatadas na prática dos partidos políticos em um município da Região Metropolitana do Vale do Paraíba - SP.
OceanGliders: A Component of the Integrated GOOS
Authors: Testor Pierre , de Young Brad , Rudnick Daniel L. , Glenn Scott , Hayes Daniel , Lee Craig M. , Pattiaratchi Charitha , Hill Katherine , Heslop Emma , Turpin Victor , Alenius Pekka , Barrera Carlos , Barth John A. , Beaird Nicholas , Bécu Guislain , Bosse Anthony , Bourrin François , Brearley J. Alexander , Chao Yi , Chen Sue , Chiggiato Jacopo , Coppola Laurent , Crout Richard , Cummings James , Curry Beth , Curry Ruth , Davis Richard , Desai Kruti , DiMarco Steve , Edwards Catherine , Fielding Sophie , Fer Ilker , Frajka-Williams Eleanor , Gildor Hezi , Goni Gustavo , Gutierrez Dimitri , Haugan Peter , Hebert David , Heiderich Joleen , Henson Stephanie , Heywood Karen , Hogan Patrick , Houpert Loïc , Huh Sik , E. Inall Mark , Ishii Masso , Ito Shin-ichi , Itoh Sachihiko , Jan Sen , Kaiser Jan , Karstensen Johannes , Kirkpatrick Barbara , Klymak Jody , Kohut Josh , Krahmann Gerd , Krug Marjolaine , McClatchie Sam , Marin Frédéric , Mauri Elena , Mehra Avichal , P. Meredith Michael , Meunier Thomas , Miles Travis , Morell Julio M. , Mortier Laurent , Nicholson Sarah , O'Callaghan Joanne , O'Conchubhair Diarmuid , Oke Peter , Pallàs-Sanz Enric , Palmer Matthew , Park JongJin , Perivoliotis Leonidas , Poulain Pierre-Marie , Perry Ruth , Queste Bastien , Rainville Luc , Rehm Eric , Roughan Moninya , Rome Nicholas , Ross Tetjana , Ruiz Simon , Saba Grace , Schaeffer Amandine , Schönau Martha , Schroeder Katrin , Shimizu Yugo , Sloyan Bernadette M. , Smeed David , Snowden Derrick , Song Yumi , Swart Sebastian , Tenreiro Miguel , Thompson Andrew , Tintore Joaquin , Todd Robert E. , Toro Cesar , Venables Hugh , Wagawa Taku , Waterman Stephanie , Watlington Roy A. , Wilson Doug
Published: October 2019

The OceanGliders program started in 2016 to support active coordination and enhancement of global glider activity. OceanGliders contributes to the international efforts of the Global Ocean Observation System (GOOS) for Climate, Ocean Health, and Operational Services. It brings together marine scientists and engineers operating gliders around the world: (1) to observe the long-term physical, biogeochemical, and biological ocean processes and phenomena that are relevant for societal applications; and, (2) to contribute to the GOOS through real-time and delayed mode data dissemination. The OceanGliders program is distributed across national and regional observing systems and significantly contributes to integrated, multi-scale and multi-platform sampling strategies. OceanGliders shares best practices, requirements, and scientific knowledge needed for glider operations, data collection and analysis. It also monitors global glider activity and supports the dissemination of glider data through regional and global databases, in real-time and delayed modes, facilitating data access to the wider community. OceanGliders currently supports national, regional and global initiatives to maintain and expand the capabilities and application of gliders to meet key global challenges such as improved measurement of ocean boundary currents, water transformation and storm forecast.
Morphing Wing Droop Nose with Large Deformation: Ground Tests and Lessons Learned
Authors: Vasista Srinivas , Riemenschneider Johannes , Keimer Ralf , Monner Hans Peter , Nolte Felix , Horst Peter
Published: October 2019

A design for a new high lift system that features a morphing wing leading edge “droop nose” has the potential to generate high lift coefficients whilst mitigating airframe noise emissions. This seamless, continuous, and stepless flexible droop nose potentially offers improvements to stall and compressor requirements for an internally-blown active Coandă trailing edge flap. A full-scale, span-trimmed three-dimensional droop nose was manufactured and ground-tested based on results obtained from new design synthesis tools. A new component of the droop nose is the hybrid fiberglass-elastomeric skin that is tailored in stiffness to meet morphing curvature requirements and spanwise bending resistance. A manufacturing concept of the novel skin was established that led to an adequate manufacturing quality. The skin was driven and supported by two optimized kinematic ribs and conventional actuators and overall shape results show good agreement apart from the region closest to the leading edge. Kinematic trajectory measurements showed that the kinematics met the target trajectories well, with and without the influence of the skin, and it was deemed that the error in curvature is due to a higher than expected skin stiffness in the hybrid layer. Calculated actuator torque levels and strain measurements corroborate this inference. The lessons learned show that means of adjustment post-assembly are needed, and a reduction of torque, energy and a better curvature distribution may be achieved if the skin at the spar junction is allowed to move relative to the main wing. Careful aerodynamic, structural, actuation and manufacturing trade-off studies would be needed to determine the overall performance benefit.
Investigation of a Standardized Qualitative Behaviour Assessment and Exploration of Potential Influencing Factors on the Emotional State of Dairy Calves
Authors: Brscic Marta , Dam Otten Nina , Contiero Barbara , Kirchner Marlene Katharina
Published: October 2019

Assessing emotional states of dairy calves is an essential part of welfare assessment, but standardized protocols are absent. The present study aims at assessing the emotional states of dairy calves and establishing a reliable standard procedure with Qualitative Behavioral Assessment (QBA) and 20 defined terms. Video material was used to compare multiple observer results. Further, live observations were performed on 49 dairy herds in Denmark and Italy. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identified observer agreement and QBA dimensions (PC). For achieving overall welfare judgment, PC1-scores were turned into the Welfare Quality (WQ) criterion ‘Positive Emotional State’. Finally, farm factors’ influence on the WQ criterion was evaluated by mixed linear models. PCA summarized QBA descriptors as PC1 ‘Valence’ and PC2 ‘Arousal’ (explained variation 40.3% and 13.3%). The highest positive descriptor loadings on PC1 was Happy (0.92) and Nervous (0.72) on PC2. The WQ-criterion score (WQ-C12) was on average 51.1 ± 9.0 points (0: worst to 100: excellent state) and ‘Number of calves’, ‘Farming style’, and ‘Breed’ explained 18% of the variability of it. We conclude that the 20 terms achieved a high portion of explained variation providing a differentiated view on the emotional state of calves. The defined term list proved to need good training for observer agreement.
A Novel Photoplethysmography Sensor for Vital Signs Monitoring from the Human Trachea
Authors: May James M. , Phillips Justin P. , Fitchat Tracey , Ramaswamy Shankar , Snidvongs Saowarat , Kyriacou Panayiotis A.
Published: October 2019

Current pulse oximeter sensors can be challenged in working accurately and continuously in situations of reduced periphery perfusion, especially among anaesthetised patients. A novel tracheal photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor has been developed in an effort to address the limitations of current pulse oximeters. The sensor has been designed to estimate oxygen saturation (SpO2) and pulse rate, and has been manufactured on a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) that can adhere to a standard endotracheal (ET) tube. A pilot clinical trial was carried out as a feasibility study on 10 anaesthetised patients. Good quality PPGs from the trachea were acquired at red and infrared wavelengths in all patients. The mean SpO2 reading for the ET tube was 97.1% (SD 1.0%) vs. the clinical monitor at 98.7% (SD 0.7%). The mean pulse rate for the ET sensor was 65.4 bpm (SD 10.0 bpm) vs. the clinical monitor at 64.7 bpm (SD 9.9 bpm). This study supports the hypothesis that the human trachea could be a suitable monitoring site of SpO2 and other physiological parameters, at times where the periphery circulation might be compromised.
The Serum Melatonin Levels and Mortality of Patients with Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Lorente Leonardo , Martín María M. , Abreu-González Pedro , Ramos Luis , Argueso Mónica , Solé-Violán Jordi , Cáceres Juan J. , Jiménez Alejandro , García-Marín Victor
Published: October 2019

Objective: Providing melatonin in animal models with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (SIH) has been associated with beneficial effects. However, to our knowledge, there are no published data on circulating melatonin levels regarding the prognosis of SIH patients. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to determine whether serum melatonin levels in SIH patients were associated with early mortality and whether they could be used as prognostic biomarkers. Methods: This observational and prospective study included patients with supratentorial and clinically severe SIH (defined as Glasgow Coma Scale GCS <9) admitted to the Intensive Care Units of six Spanish hospitals. Serum melatonin levels were determined at the time of severe SIH diagnosis. Mortality at 30 days was the study end-point. Results: Non-surviving patients (n = 46) showed higher serum melatonin levels (p < 0.001) than surviving (n = 54) patients. An area under the curve was found for the prediction of 30-day mortality by serum melatonin levels of 0.89 (95% CI = 0.81–0.94; p < 0.001). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed an association of serum melatonin levels with 30-day mortality (Odds Ratio = 8.16; 95% CI = 2.30–28.95; p = 0.001) after controlling for midline shift, glycemia, early evacuation of SIH, and Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) score. Conclusions: The novel findings by our study were the presence of higher serum melatonin levels in non-surviving patients than in surviving patients and the association of these levels with mortality.
Pharmacological Targeting of BET Bromodomain Proteins in Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Malignant Lymphomas: From Molecular Characterization to Clinical Applications
Authors: Reyes-Garau Diana , Ribeiro Marcelo L. , Roué Gaël
Published: October 2019

Alterations in protein-protein and DNA-protein interactions and abnormal chromatin remodeling are a major cause of uncontrolled gene transcription and constitutive activation of critical signaling pathways in cancer cells. Multiple epigenetic regulators are known to be deregulated in several hematologic neoplasms, by somatic mutation, amplification, or deletion, allowing the identification of specific epigenetic signatures, but at the same time providing new therapeutic opportunities. While these vulnerabilities have been traditionally addressed by hypomethylating agents or histone deacetylase inhibitors, pharmacological targeting of bromodomain-containing proteins has recently emerged as a promising approach in a number of lymphoid and myeloid malignancies. Indeed, preclinical and clinical studies highlight the relevance of targeting the bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) family as an efficient strategy of target transcription irrespective of the presence of epigenetic mutations. Here we will summarize the main advances achieved in the last decade regarding the preclinical and clinical evaluation of BET bromodomain inhibitors in hematologic cancers, either as monotherapies or in combinations with standard and/or experimental agents. A mention will finally be given to the new concept of the protein degrader, and the perspective it holds for the design of bromodomain-based therapies.
Chronic Hindlimb Ischemia Assessment; Quantitative Evaluation Using Laser Doppler in a Rodent Model of Surgically Induced Peripheral Arterial Occlusion
Authors: Hoinoiu Bogdan , Jiga Lucian Petru , Nistor Alexandru , Dornean Vlad , Barac Sorin , Miclaus Gratian , Ionac Mihai , Hoinoiu Teodora
Published: October 2019

Therapeutic neoangiogenesis (TNA) holds promise as a treatment for peripheral arterial disease. Nevertheless, proper tools for in vivo pre-clinical investigation of different TNA approaches and their effects are still lacking. Here we describe a chronic ischemic hindlimb model in rats using laser Doppler quantitative evaluation of tissue perfusion. Male Wistar rats (n = 20), aged between 6–8 months, with an average weight of 287 ± 26.74 g, were used. Animals were divided into two experimental groups: group A (n = 17; hindlimb chronic ischemia model) and group B (n = 3; control). Hindlimb ischemia was induced by concomitant ligation of the right femoral and popliteal artery. Evaluation of tissue perfusion was quantified in perfusion units (PU) on a scale from 0 to 500 (500 PU = maximal detectable perfusion) by laser Doppler analysis at day 0, day 15 and day 30 after induction of ischemia. Induction of chronic ischemia in the rat hindlimb by concomitant ligation of the femoral and popliteal artery can be readily obtained but requires basic microsurgical skills. Laser Doppler analysis has shown unaltered ischemia levels throughout the study (129,17 PU ± 3.13 day 0 vs. 130,33 PU day 30 ± 3,27, p = not significant (n.s.)). We demonstrate a simple and reproducible model of chronic hindlimb ischemia in rats, with stable tissue perfusion levels that are accurately quantified using laser Doppler technology. Hence, this model can represent a valid tool for further studies involving therapeutic neoangiogenesis.
Climate Change Impacts on the Potential Distribution and Range Shift of Dendroctonus ponderosae (Coleoptera: Scolytidae)
Authors: Zhou Yuting , Ge Xuezhen , Zou Ya , Guo Siwei , Wang Tao , Zong Shixiang
Published: October 2019

Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) is one of the most important bark beetles in North America and causes considerable economic and ecological losses during outbreaks. The distribution of this pest species is likely to be altered by climate change, which may threaten currently unaffected areas. In this study, we used CLIMEX to project the potential global distribution of D. ponderosae according to both historical climate data (1987–2016) and future climate warming estimates (2021–2100) to evaluate the impact of climate change on this species. Regions with suitable climate for D. ponderosae are distributed in all continents except Antarctica under both historical and future climate conditions, and these are predicted to change continuously with climate change. Overall, climate suitability will increase in middle- and high-latitude regions and decrease in low-latitude regions, and regions most sensitive to climate change are located in the mid-latitude zone. Moreover, the shift directions and ranges of climate-suitable regions under future conditions will differ among continents, and the shift distances in the north–south direction are larger than these in the east–west direction for Africa, Asia, Europe, South America, and Oceania, indicating that shift direction is possibly mainly affected by temperature. These projected distributions may provide theoretical guidance for early-warning intervention and risk assessment.
Primary Language in Relation to Knowledge of Diagnosis and Sun-Related Behaviors in Adults with Sun-Exacerbated Dermatoses
Authors: Maymone Mayra , Wirya Stephen , Secemsky Eric , Vashi Neelam
Published: October 2019

Objective: To evaluate how patients’ primary spoken language influences the understanding of their disorder and their subsequent sun-related behaviors. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted between February 2015 and July 2016 in two outpatient dermatology clinics among 419 adults with a sun-exacerbated dermatosis. The primary outcome was a successful match between the patient-reported diagnosis on a survey and the dermatologist-determined diagnosis. Results: Of participants, 42% were native English speakers, and 68% did not know their diagnosis. Fewer non-native English speakers identified one risk factor for their condition (46% versus 54%, p < 0.01). A greater number of non-native English speakers were less familiar with medical terminology. Native English speakers were 2.5 times more likely to know their diagnosis compared to non-native speakers (adjusted odds (aOR) 2.5, 95% confidence interval, 1.32 to 4.5; p = 0.005). Additional factors associated with higher odds of knowing the diagnosis included: Higher education, sunscreen use, female gender, symptoms for 1–5 years, and diagnosis of melasma and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Conclusions: Knowledge of the diagnosis and understanding of factors that may influence skin disease may promote conscious sun behavior. Patients who knew that their diagnosis was sun-exacerbated had higher odds of wearing sunscreen.
Predictive Validity, Diagnostic Accuracy and Test-Retest Reliability of the Strength of Urges to Drink (SUTD) Scale
Authors: Beard Emma , Brown Jamie , West Robert , Drummond Colin , Kaner Eileen , Michie Susan
Published: October 2019

This study compared the 1-item Strength of Urges to Drink (SUTD) scale with the 10-item Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) on (i) test-retest reliability, (ii) predictive validity, and (iii) diagnostic accuracy. Data come from 2960 participants taking part in the Alcohol Toolkit Study (ATS), a monthly population survey of adults in England. The long-term test-retest reliability of the SUTD was ‘fair’, but lower than that for the AUDIT (Kappaweighted 0.24 versus 0.49). Individuals with “slight/moderate” urges to drink had higher odds of reporting an attempt to cut down relative to those not experiencing urges (adjusted odds ratios (AdjORs) 1.78 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.43–2.22 and 1.54 95% CI 1.20–1.96). Drinkers reporting “moderate/slight/strong” urges to drink had mean change in consumption scores which were 0.16 (95% CI −0.31 to −0.02), 0.40 (95% CI −0.56 to −0.24) and 0.37 (95% CI −0.69 to −0.05) units lower than those reporting no urges. For all outcomes, strong associations were found with AUDIT scores. The accuracy of the SUTD for discriminating between drinkers who did and did not reduce their consumption was ‘acceptable’, and similar to that for the AUDIT (ROCAUC 0.6). The AUDIT had better diagnostic accuracy in predicting change in alcohol consumption. The SUTD may be an efficient dynamic measure of urges to drink for population surveys and studies assessing the impact of alcohol-reduction interventions.
Sleep Macrostructure and NREM Sleep Instability Analysis in Pediatric Developmental Coordination Disorder
Authors: Esposito Maria , Precenzano Francesco , Bitetti Ilaria , Zeno Ilaria , Merolla Eugenio , Risoleo Maria Cristina , Lanzara Valentina , Carotenuto Marco
Published: October 2019

Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is considered to be abnormal motor skills learning, identified by clumsiness, slowness, and/or motor inaccuracy impairing the daily-life activities in all ages of life, in the absence of sensory, cognitive, or neurological deficits impairment. The present research focuses on studying DCD sleep structure and Cyclic Alternating Pattern (CAP) parameters with a full overnight polysomnography and to study the putative correlations between sleep architecture and CAP parameters with motor coordination skills. The study was a cross-sectional design involving 42 children (26M/16F; mean age 10.12 ± 1.98) selected as a DCD group compared with 79 children (49M/30F; mean age 9.94 ± 2.84) identified as typical (no-DCD) for motor ability and sleep macrostructural parameters according to the MABC-2 and polysomnographic (PSG) evaluations. The two groups (DCD and non-DCD) were similar for age (p = 0.715) and gender (p = 0.854). More significant differences in sleep architecture and CAP parameters were found between two groups and significant correlations were identified between sleep parameters and motor coordination skills in the study population. In conclusion, our data show relevant abnormalities in sleep structure of DCD children and suggest a role for rapid components of A phases on motor coordination development
Impact of Wildfire Smoke on Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes in Colorado, 2007–2015
Authors: Abdo Mona , Ward Isabella , O’Dell Katelyn , Ford Bonne , Pierce Jeffrey , Fischer Emily , Crooks James
Published: October 2019

Colorado is regularly impacted by long-range transport of wildfire smoke from upwind regions. This smoke is a major source of ambient PM2.5. Maternal exposure to total PM2.5 during pregnancy has been linked to decreased birth weight and other adverse outcomes, although the impact of wildfire smoke contribution has only recently been investigated. The objective of this study was to estimate associations between adverse pregnancy outcomes and ambient wildfire smoke PM2.5. Wildfire smoke PM2.5 exposures were estimated using a previously published method incorporating ground-based monitors and remote sensing data. Logistic regression models stratified by ZIP code and mixed models with random intercept by ZIP code were used to test for associations. The primary outcomes of interest were preterm birth and birth weight. Secondary outcomes included gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, neonatal intensive care unit admission, assisted ventilation, small for gestational age, and low birth weight. Exposure to wildfire smoke PM2.5 over the full gestation and during the second trimester were positively associated with pre-term birth (OR = 1.076 (μg/m3)−1 [95% CI = 1.016, 1.139; p = 0.013] and 1.132 (μg/m3)−1 [95% CI = 1.088, 1.178]; p < 0.0001, respectively), while exposure during the first trimester was associated with decreased birth weight (−5.7 g/(μg/m3) [95% CI: −11.1, −0.4; p = 0.036]). Secondary outcomes were mixed.
Sauna Yoga Superiorly Improves Flexibility, Strength, and Balance: A Two-Armed Randomized Controlled Trial in Healthy Older Adults
Authors: Bucht Heidi , Donath Lars
Published: October 2019

Besides strength and balance, flexibility is an important indicator of health-related physical fitness. Thus, the aim of this two-armed randomized controlled pilot trial was to investigate whether sauna yoga at a moderate temperature (50 °C) beneficially affects flexibility, strength, balance, and quality of life (QOL) in healthy elderly community dwellers. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (INT, n = 11, age: 68.7 ± 5.9) or control group (CON, n = 12, age: 69.3 ± 4.9), using the minimization method. Age, physical activity, gender, and the primary outcome flexibility were used as strata for group allocation. Both groups completed similar exercises in the sauna over eight weeks. Only the INT group was exposed to moderate temperatures of 50 °C. Large and statistically significant improvement in favor of the sauna group (INT) was observed for the chair sit-and-reach test (INT: +83%, CON +3%, p = 0.028, np2 = 0.24). The shoulder and lateral spine flexibility were not relevantly affected. Strength in the lower extremities merely showed a tendency to significant changes (INT: 16%, CON: 3%, p = 0.061, np2 = 0.181). Additionally, balance abilities, with eyes closed, improved (INT: 187%, CON +58%, p = 0.056, np2 = 0.189) in favor of the INT group. QOL only improved in favor of the INT for environmental dimension (INT: +7%, CON: 0%, p = 0.034, np2 = 0.227). These first but preliminary findings indicate that sauna yoga may serve as a promising and feasible means to improve flexibility in elderly people. Strength and balance do not meaningfully benefit from a sauna environment, although strength improved to a slightly higher extent in the sauna group. Future large-scale research is needed to elucidate underlying mechanisms and corroborate these findings.
Curcumin-Gene Expression Response in Hormone Dependent and Independent Metastatic Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Katta Shilpa , Srivastava Arun , Thangapazham Rajesh L. , Rosner Inger L. , Cullen Jennifer , Li Hua , Sharad Shashwat
Published: October 2019

The androgen receptor is one of the key targets for prostate cancer treatment. Despite its less satisfactory effects, chemotherapy is the most common treatment option for metastatic and/or castration-resistant patients. There are constant needs for novel anti-prostate cancer therapeutic/prevention agents. Curcumin, a known chemo-preventive agent, was shown to inhibit prostate cancer cell growth. This study aimed to unravel the inhibitory effect of curcumin in prostate cancer through analyzing the alterations of expressions of curcumin targeting genes clusters in androgen-dependent LNCaP cells and androgen-independent metastatic C4-2B cells. Hierarchical clustering showed the highest number of differentially expressed genes at 12 h post treatment in both cells, suggesting that the androgen-dependent/independent manner of curcumin impacts on prostate cancer cells. Evaluation of significantly regulated top canonical pathways highlighted that Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), Wingless-related integration site (Wnt), Phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Protein Kinase B/ mammalian target of rapamycin (PIK3/AKT(PKB)/mTOR), and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-kB) signaling were primarily inhibited, and Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) dependent cell cycle arrest and apoptosis pathways were elevated with curcumin treatment. The short term (3–24 h) and long term (48 h) effect of curcumin treatment revealed 31 and four genes modulated in both cell lines. TGF-β signaling, including the androgen/TGF-β inhibitor Prostate transmembrane protein androgen-induced 1 (PMEPA1), was the only pathway impacted by curcumin treatment after 48 h. Our findings also established that MYC Proto-Oncogene, basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) Transcription Factor (MYC) signaling was down-regulated in curcumin-treated cell lines. This study established, for the first time, novel gene-networks and signaling pathways confirming the chemo-preventive and cancer-growth inhibitory nature of curcumin as a natural anti-prostate cancer compound.
Progress in iPSC-Based Modeling of Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Hoffmann Anke , Ziller Michael , Spengler Dietmar
Published: October 2019

Progress in iPSC-based cellular systems provides new insights into human brain development and early neurodevelopmental deviations in psychiatric disorders. Among these, studies on schizophrenia (SCZ) take a prominent role owing to its high heritability and multifarious evidence that it evolves from a genetically induced vulnerability in brain development. Recent iPSC studies on patients with SCZ indicate that functional impairments of neural progenitor cells (NPCs) in monolayer culture extend to brain organoids by disrupting neocorticogenesis in an in vitro model. In addition, the formation of hippocampal circuit-like structures in vitro is impaired in patients with SCZ as is the case for glia development. Intriguingly, chimeric-mice experiments show altered oligodendrocyte and astrocyte development in vivo that highlights the importance of cell–cell interactions in the pathogenesis of early-onset SCZ. Likewise, cortical imbalances in excitatory–inhibitory signaling may result from a cell-autonomous defect in cortical interneuron (cIN) development. Overall, these findings indicate that genetic risk in SCZ impacts neocorticogenesis, hippocampal circuit formation, and the development of distinct glial and neuronal subtypes. In light of this remarkable progress, we discuss current limitations and further steps necessary to harvest the full potential of iPSC-based investigations on psychiatric disorders.
Automated Unsupervised 3D Tool-Path Generation Using Stacked 2D Image Processing Technique
Authors: Tuli Tadele Belay , Cesarini Andrea
Published: October 2019

Tool-path, feed-rate, and depth-of-cut of a tool determine the machining time, tool wear, power consumption, and realization costs. Before the commissioning and production, a preliminary phase of failure-mode identification and effect analysis allows for selecting the optimal machining parameters for cutting, which, in turn, reduces machinery faults, production errors and, ultimately, decreases costs. For this, scalable high-precision path generation algorithms requiring a low amount of computation might be advisable. The present work provides such a simplified scalable computationally low-intensive technique for tool-path generation. From a three dimensional (3D) digital model, the presented algorithm extracts multiple two dimensional (2D) layers. Depending on the required resolution, each layer is converted to a spatial image, and an algebraic analytic closed-form solution provides a geometrical tool path in Cartesian coordinates. The produced tool paths are stacked after processing all object layers. Finally, the generated tool path is translated into a machine code using a G-code generator algorithm. The introduced technique was implemented and simulated using MATLAB® pseudocode with a G-code interpreter and a simulator. The results showed that the proposed technique produced an automated unsupervised reliable tool-path-generator algorithm and reduced tool wear and costs, by allowing the selection of the tool depth-of-cut as an input.
Numerical Modeling of Gas Migration and Hydrate Formation in Heterogeneous Marine Sediments
Authors: Bei Keqi , Xu Tianfu , Shang Songhua , Wei Zilin , Yuan Yilong , Tian Hailong
Published: October 2019

The formation of marine gas hydrates is controlled by gas migration and accumulation from lower sediments and by the conditions of the hydrate stability zone. Permeability and porosity are important factors to evaluate the gas migration capacity and reservoir sealing capacity, and to determine the distribution of hydrates in the stable region. Based on currently available geological data from field measurements in the Shenhu area of Baiyun Sag in the northern South China Sea, numerical simulations were conducted to estimate the influence of heterogeneities in porosity and permeability on the processes of hydrate formation and accumulation. The simulation results show that: (1) The heterogeneity of the hydrate stability zone will affect the methane migration within it and influence the formation and accumulation of hydrates. This is one of the reasons for the formation of heterogeneous hydrates. (2) When the reservoir is layered heterogeneously, stratified differences in gas lateral migration and hydrate formation will occur in the sediment, and the horizontal distribution range of the hydrate in a high porosity and permeability reservoir is wider. (3) To determine the dominant enrichment area of hydrate in a reservoir, we should consider both vertical and lateral conditions of the sedimentary layer, and the spatial coupling configuration relationships among the hydrate stability region, reservoir space and gas migration and drainage conditions should be considered comprehensively. The results are helpful to further understand the rules of hydrate accumulation in the Shenhu area on the northern slope of the South China Sea, and provide some references for future hydrate exploration and the estimation of reserves.
Fuzzy Evaluation Model for Enhancing E-Learning Systems
Authors: Lee Tai-Shan , Wang Ching-Hsin , Yu Chun-Min
Published: October 2019

As the environment and information-technology conditions of the Internet of Things matured, various applications were launched. In education, e-learning is promoted so that students’ learning is no longer restricted to the classroom. E-learning schedules are flexible, and learners’ commuting costs are low. Apparently, improving the quality of e-learning systems can enhance learners’ learning effectiveness, satisfaction, engagement, and learning efficacy. A performance evaluation matrix is a useful tool for collecting users’ opinions to assess the performance of an operating system, and it is widely used to evaluate and improve performance in numerous industries and organizations. Therefore, this study used this matrix to construct a model for evaluation and analysis, providing suggestions on improving e-learning systems. This approach maintained the simple response model of Likert scales, which increases the efficiency and accuracy of data collection. Furthermore, the fuzzy membership function of the discriminant index was constructed based on the confidence interval, thereby solving the problems of sampling error and the complexity of collecting fuzzy linguistic data. Besides, we simplified calculations by standardizing test statistics to increase evaluation efficiency. As a result, this study improved the quality of e-learning system, enhanced users’ learning effectiveness, satisfaction, and engagement, and achieved the goal of sustainability.
Interactive Manipulation of Nonconductive Microparticles in Scanning Electron Microscope by a Virtual Nano-Hand Strategy
Authors: Liu Mei , Cheng Kai , Qin Xiangzheng , Wei Zhenzhong , Borom Brandon , Su Weilin , Chen Jinbo , Feng Yunpeng , Wang Tao , Rao Jinjun
Published: October 2019

Micro/nano-manipulation is the fabrication of particular constructs on devices at the micro/nano-scale. Precise manipulation of microparticles is one of the key technological difficulties in manufacturing micro/nano-scale components. Based on scanning electron microscopy and nanomanipulator, this paper adopts a direct push method to operate randomly distributed microparticles into ordered structures. A two-probe interaction strategy is proposed to enable microparticle movements in all directions efficiently and avoid scratching the substrate surface. To overcome the uncertainties in micromanipulation, a virtual nano-hand strategy was also implemented: long-range advance of each microparticle is realized by multiple single-step pushes, whose trajectory is theoretically analyzed. The pushes are well programmed to imitate effects of a more powerful and determined hand. Experimental results show that the theoretical single-step motion trajectory is in line with actual operation, and the proposed strategy can ensure precise operation of the microparticles in all directions and improve reliability and effectiveness of operation.
Recent Advances in Bioorthogonal Click Chemistry for Efficient Synthesis of Radiotracers and Radiopharmaceuticals
Authors: Mushtaq Sajid , Yun Seong-Jae , Jeon Jongho
Published: October 2019

In recent years, several catalyst-free site-specific reactions have been investigated for the efficient conjugation of biomolecules, nanomaterials, and living cells. Representative functional group pairs for these reactions include the following: (1) azide and cyclooctyne for strain-promoted cycloaddition reaction, (2) tetrazine and trans-alkene for inverse-electron-demand-Diels–Alder reaction, and (3) electrophilic heterocycles and cysteine for rapid condensation/addition reaction. Due to their excellent specificities and high reaction rates, these conjugation methods have been utilized for the labeling of radioisotopes (e.g., radiohalogens, radiometals) to various target molecules. The radiolabeled products prepared by these methods have been applied to preclinical research, such as in vivo molecular imaging, pharmacokinetic studies, and radiation therapy of cancer cells. In this review, we explain the basics of these chemical reactions and introduce their recent applications in the field of radiopharmacy and chemical biology. In addition, we discuss the significance, current challenges, and prospects of using bioorthogonal conjugation reactions.
Single-Crystalline Metal Oxide Nanostructures Synthesized by Plasma-Enhanced Thermal Oxidation
Authors: Guo Bin , Košiček Martin , Fu Junchi , Qu Yazhou , Lin Guanhua , Baranov Oleg , Zavašnik Janez , Cheng Qijin , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken) , Cvelbar Uroš
Published: October 2019

To unravel the influence of the temperature and plasma species on the growth of single-crystalline metal oxide nanostructures, zinc, iron, and copper foils were used as substrates for the study of nanostructure synthesis in the glow discharge of the mixture of oxygen and argon gases by a custom-made plasma-enhanced horizontal tube furnace deposition system. The morphology and microstructure of the resulting metal oxide nanomaterials were controlled by changing the reaction temperature from 300 to 600 °C. Experimentally, we confirmed that single-crystalline zinc oxide, copper oxide, and iron oxide nanostructures with tunable morphologies (including nanowires, nanobelts, etc.) can be successfully synthesized via such procedure. A plausible growth mechanism for the synthesis of metal oxide nanostructures under the plasma-based process is proposed and supported by the nanostructure growth modelling. The results of this work are generic, confirmed on three different types of materials, and can be applied for the synthesis of a broader range of metal oxide nanostructures.
Measurements of the Vertical Displacements of a Railway Bridge Using TLS Technology in the Context of the Upgrade of the Polish Railway Transport
Authors: Gawronek Pelagia , Makuch Maria , Mitka Bartosz , Gargula Tadeusz
Published: October 2019

The railway system in Poland is undergoing technological transformation. The development of the Polish railway system concerns not only high-speed trains but also infrastructure. The steel bridge is the most popular type of railway bridge in Poland. Most of them were built in the 1950s and 1960s. According to the recommendations in place in Western Europe, such railway bridges should be reviewed in terms of their fitness for use with modern high-speed trains. The modern technological revolution affects not only the railway, but also developments in displacement and deformation measurement techniques. New technologies provide more objective measurement results and accelerate results processing. They also facilitate the non-contact measurement of bridge structure stability. The authors investigated the vertical displacement of an old steel railway bridge in three different, specific case studies of terrestrial laser scanning data application. Then, the results of 3D data were compared with traditional land surveying results. The scientific results led to a conclusion that a strictly determined methodology of the measurement and analysis of a terrestrial laser scanner results supported by traditional land surveying techniques facilitates the determination of the vertical displacement of bridges with acceptable accuracy.
The Material Indices Method in the Sustainable Engineering Design Process: A Review
Authors: Branowski Bogdan , Zabłocki Marek , Sydor Maciej
Published: October 2019

The material indices method has its application in both the design of construction materials and products. The method has evolved since the 1960s and has been described in German, Russian, Polish, and English scientific literature. In the 1990s, the method was adapted to Design for the Environment with the inclusion of specific energy consumption indicators for various construction materials. The article cites six principles of Design for the Environment and presents specific energy consumption indicators according to various authors. This data was then used in two sample applications of the material indices method to determine the specific energy consumption of product manufacture: of a support structure of the standing frame and a compression spring design. In the conclusions, the significant limitations of the material indices method are emphasized, which are not extensively discussed in the literature on the subject, such as its high sensitivity to the accuracy of the adopted energy consumption indicators for materials in view of the actual production process; not taking into consideration all the negative aspects of the materials’ impact on the environment, or the difficulties associated with predicting the impact of material production technology on the material indices. On the other hand, their simple functional form makes them ideal for incorporation into modern CAD software and in product optimization at the initial stage of concept design.
A Study on the Relationship between Urban Residents’ Perception of Recreational Sports and Their Participation in Recreational Sports: Based on Gender Differences
Authors: Zou Xuefang , Kayani Sumaira , Wang Jin , Imran Muhammad , Zagalaz Sánchez María Luisa , Amador Jesús Lara Sánchez , Qurban Haroona
Published: October 2019

Background: The health of urban residents plays an important role in increasing the well-being of citizens, and therefore promoting the sustainable development of cities. Studies in Western countries have provided some evidence of the relationship between the urban residents’ perception of the recreational sports (RS), including perception of industry, space, experience, type, and support affecting recreational behaviors. Yet, evidence in China is not sufficient and, particularly, gender difference has not been discussed anywhere. Objectives: The present study aimed to see urban residents’ perception of RS and its effect on recreational sport participation by the residents. Method: The study was conducted in three big cities (Hangzhou, Chengdu, and Shanghai) of China to test the association between the urban residents’ perception of RS and their RS participation, in which gender differences were discussed. After taking their consent, a total of 764 participants (397 male and 367 female) aged from 15 to 65 were approached between April and October, 2018. The participants were given a survey to assess their perception and behavior of RS. T-test and the structural equation modeling were used to analyze gender differences in association between perception and behavior of RS. Results: For females, industry perception (β = 0.17, p = 0.00), space perception (females: β = 0.16, p = 0.00), and support perception (females: β = 0.09, p = 0.03) had a significant positive effect on RS participation. For males, industry perception (males: β = 0.13, p = 0.01) and type perception (males: β = 0.23, p = 0.00) showed a significant positive impact on participation of RS. However, space perception of males (β = −0.12; p = 0.01) and type perception of females (β = −0.11; p = 0.01) are negatively associated with their RS participation. The perception of experience was the most important factor influencing RS behaviors. Significant gender differences have appeared in all five different perception factors. The industry perception has significant and positive effects on both males and females’ RS participation. The type perception has significant positive effects on the male but negative on the female RS, while the space perception is just the opposite. The support perception has significant positive effects on the female RS practice but the influence is not obvious in the case of males. Conclusion: By adopting some measures, perception of RS may improve urban residents’ participation in RS.
Reform of Chinese Universities in the Context of Sustainable Development: Teacher Evaluation and Improvement Based on Hybrid Multiple Criteria Decision-Making Model
Authors: Weng Sung-Shun , Liu Yang , Chuang Yen-Ching
Published: October 2019

China is pushing universities to implement reforms in order to achieve the sustainable development goals, but with the development level of teachers becoming the key restricting factor. In this sense, teacher evaluation and improvement act as positive factors for China to achieve the 2030 sustainable development goals. Previous studies on teacher evaluation have usually assumed that the relationship between the evaluation criteria is independent, with the weights of each standard derived from this assumption. However, this assumption is often not in line with the actual situation. Decisions based on these studies are likely to waste resources and may negatively impact the efficiency and effectiveness of teachers’ sustainable development. This study developed an integrated model for the evaluation and improvement of teachers based on the official teacher evaluation criteria of China’s International Scholarly Exchange Curriculum (ISEC) programme and a multiple criteria decision-making methodology. First, a decision-making trial and a laboratory-based analytical network process were used to establish an influential network-relation diagram (INRD) and influential weights under ISEC standards. Next, an important performance analysis was used to integrate the weight and performance of each standard to produce a worst-performance criterion set for each university teacher. Finally, the worst performance set used an INRD to derive an improvement strategy with a cause–effect relationship for each teacher. This study chose a Chinese university that has implemented teaching reform for our case study. The results show that our developed model can assist decision-makers to improve their current evaluations of teachers and to provide a cause–effect improvement strategy for education reform committees and higher education institutions.