bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptomic features of tumour-infiltrating CD4lowCD8high double positive αβ T cells in melanoma
Authors: Parrot Tiphaine , Oger Romain , Allard Mathilde , Desfrançois Juliette , Raingeard de la Blétière Diane , Coutolleau Anne , Preisser Laurence , Khammari Amir , Dréno Brigitte , Delneste Yves , Guardiola Philippe , Fradin Delphine , Gervois Nadine
Published: April 2020

Peripheral CD4+CD8+double positive (DP) T cells are a phenotypically and functionally heterogeneous population depending on their origin and pathologic context. We previously identified among tumour infiltrating lymphocytes in melanoma, a tumour-reactive MHC class-I restricted CD4lowCD8highDP αβ T-cell subpopulation with CD4-like function. In this study, we used an in-depth comparative transriptomic analysis of intra-melanoma DP T cells and CD4 and CD8 single positive (SP) T cells, to better comprehend the origin of this DP phenotype, and define the transcriptomic signature of activated DP T cells. We observed that intra-melanoma DP T cells were transcriptome-wise closer to their CD8 SP T-cell counterparts in terms of number of genes differentially expressed (97 in common with CD8 SP T cells and 15 with CD4 SP T cells) but presented hallmarks of a transition to a CD4-like functional profile (CD40LG) with a decreased cytotoxic signature (KLRC1) in favour of an increased cytokine-receptor interaction signature (IL4, IL24, IL17A…). This unleashed CD4-like program could be the results of the observed unbalanced expression of the THPOK/Runx3 transcription factors in DP T cells. Overall, this study allow us to speculate that intra-melanoma DP T cells arise from CD8 SP T cells being reprogrammed to a helper function.
Author Correction: Palaeoclimatic conditions in the Mediterranean explain genetic diversity of Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows
Authors: Chefaoui Rosa M. , Duarte Carlos M. , Serrão Ester A.
Published: April 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Identification of a newly isolated lytic bacteriophage against K24 capsular type, carbapenem resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates
Authors: Horváth Marianna , Kovács Tamás , Koderivalappil Sarshad , Ábrahám Hajnalka , Rákhely Gábor , Schneider György
Published: April 2020

The increasing incidence of carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae strains (CP-Kps) in the last decade has become a serious global healthcare problem. Therapeutic options for the treatment of emerging hospital clones have drastically narrowed and therefore novel approaches must be considered. Here we have isolated and characterized a lytic bacteriophage, named vB_KpnS_Kp13, that was effective against all Verona integron-encoded metallo-β-lactamase (VIM) producing K. pneumoniae isolates originating from hospital samples (urine, blood, sputum and faeces), belonging to the ST15 clonal lineage and expressing the K24 capsule. Morphological characterization of vB_KpnS_Kp13 showed that the newly identified phage belonged to the Siphoviridae family, and phylogenetic analysis showed that it is part of a distinct clade of the Tunavirinae subfamily. Functional analysis revealed that vB_KpnS_Kp13 had relatively short latent period times (18 minutes) compared to other K. pneumoniae bacteriophages and could degrade biofilm by more than 50% and 70% in 24 and 48 hours respectively. Complete in vivo rescue potential of the new phage was revealed in an intraperitoneal mouse model where phages were administered intraperitoneally 10 minutes after bacterial challenge. Our findings could potentially be used to develop specific anti-CP-Kps bacteriophage-based therapeutic strategies against major clonal lineages and serotypes.
Effective medium theory to the description of plasmonic resonances: Role of Au and Ti nanoparticles embedded in MoO3 thin films
Authors: Morales-Luna Gesuri , Morales-Luna Michael
Published: April 2020

The growing interest in functional transition metal oxides for efficient energy consumption or in the bio-sensing process; indicates that is necessary to develop a new theoretical method that describes experiments. This article presents a new theoretical methodology to characterize molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) thin films doped with resonant gold – nanoparticles (Au – NPs) and non-resonant titanium – nanoparticles (Ti – NPs). The modulation of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and the implications in the MoO3 transmittance spectrum is described by applying an effective medium theory. The transmittance modulation was modified by variating three parameters, the radius of the NPs, the concentration of the NPs as well as the variation of the MoO3 thin films thickness. It was found that the nanoparticles concentration is the most important parameter in the transmittance modulation. Additionally, the orthorhombic and monoclinic structure of MoO3 was studied, from which it was obtained that the monoclinic structure of the MoO3 doped with Au – NPs favors the reduction in the transmittance values in the visible region which is associated with the increase of the SPR signal. Similar analyses are performed for non-resonant nanoparticles such as Ti, where it was found that optical modulation is not as marked as the case of gold nanoparticles.
Prescience of endogenous regulation in Arabidopsis thaliana by Pseudomonas putida MTCC 5279 under phosphate starved salinity stress condition
Authors: Srivastava Sonal , Srivastava Suchi
Published: April 2020

Phosphorus (P) availability and salinity stress are two major constraints for agriculture productivity. A combination of salinity and P starvation is known to be more deleterious to plant health. Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria are known to ameliorate abiotic stress in plants by increasing the availability of different nutrients. However, interaction mechanisms of plant grown under salinity and P stress condition and effect of beneficial microbe for stress alleviation is still obscure. Earlier we reported the molecular insight of auxin producing, phosphate solubilising Pseudomonas putida MTCC 5279 (RAR) mediated plant growth promotion in Arabidopsis thaliana. In present study new trait of proline and phosphatase production of RAR and its impact on modulation of physiological phenomenon under phosphate starved-salinity stress condition in A. thaliana has been investigated. Different physiological and molecular determinants under RAR- A. thaliana interaction showed that auxin producing RAR shows tryptophan dependence for growth and proline production in ATP dependant manner under salinity stress. However, under P deprived conditions growth and proline production are independent of tryptophan. RAR mediated lateral root branching and root hair density through modulation of abscisic acid signalling was observed. Acidic phosphatase activity under P starved and salinity stress condition was majorly modulated along with ROS metabolism and expression of stress responsive/phosphate transporter genes. A strong correlation of different morpho-physiological factor with RAR + salt conditions, showed We concluded that enhanced adverse effect of salinity with unavailability of P was dampened in presence of P. putida MTCC 5279 (RAR) in A. thaliana, though more efficiently salinity stress conditions. Therefore, alleviation of combined stress of salinity induced phosphate nutrient deficiency by inoculation of beneficial microbe, P. putida MTCC 5279 offer good opportunities for enhancing the agricultural productivity.
Renoprotective and neuroprotective effects of enteric hydrogen generation from Si-based agent
Authors: Kobayashi Yuki , Imamura Ryoichi , Koyama Yoshihisa , Kondo Makoto , Kobayashi Hikaru , Nonomura Norio , Shimada Shoichi
Published: April 2020

We have developed Si-based agent which can generate a large amount of hydrogen. Si-based agent continues generating hydrogen for more than 24 h by the reaction with water under conditions similar to those in bowels, i.e., pH8.3 and 36 °C, and generates ~400 mL hydrogen. To investigate beneficial effects for diseases associated with oxidative stress, Si-based agent is administered to remnant kidney rats and Parkinson’s disease mice. Rats are fed with control or Si-based agent-containing diet for 8 weeks. Si-based agent is found to greatly suppress the development of renal failure and the parameters of oxidative stress. Treatment with Si-based agent in a mouse model of hemi-Parkinson’s disease induced by 6-hydroxydopamine attenuated degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and prevented impairment of motor balance and coordination. These findings indicate that the Si-based agent shows renoprotective and neuroprotective effects presumably via suppression of oxidative stress by generation of hydrogen.
Historical changes in the contents and compositions of fibre components and polar metabolites in white wheat flour
Authors: Lovegrove Alison , Pellny Till K. , Hassall Kirsty L. , Plummer Amy , Wood Abigail , Bellisai Alice , Przewieslik-Allen Alexandra , Burridge Amanda J. , Ward Jane L. , Shewry Peter R.
Published: April 2020

Thirty-nine UK adapted wheat cultivars dating from between 1790 and 2012 were grown in replicated randomised field trials for three years, milled, and white flour analysed for the contents of dietary fibre components (arabinoxylan and β-glucan) and polar metabolites (sugars, amino acids, organic acids, choline and betaine) to determine whether the composition had changed due to the effects of intensive breeding. The concentrations of components varied between study years, indicating strong effects of environment. Nevertheless, some trends were observed, with the concentrations of arabinoxylan fibre and soluble sugars (notably sucrose, maltose and fructose) increasing and most amino acids (including asparagine which is the precursor of acrylamide formed during processing) decreasing between the older and newer types. The concentration of betaine, which is beneficial for cardio-vascular health, also increased. The study therefore provided no evidence for adverse effects of intensive breeding on the contents of beneficial components in wheat flour.
Electric dipole of InN/InGaN quantum dots and holes and giant surface photovoltage directly measured by Kelvin probe force microscopy
Authors: Qian Yinping , Wang Peng , Rao Lujia , Song Changkun , Yin Hongjie , Wang Xingyu , Zhou Guofu , Nötzel Richard
Published: April 2020

We directly measure the electric dipole of InN quantum dots (QDs) grown on In-rich InGaN layers by Kelvin probe force microscopy. This significantly advances the understanding of the superior catalytic performance of InN/InGaN QDs in ion- and biosensing and in photoelectrochemical hydrogen generation by water splitting and the understanding of the important third-generation InGaN semiconductor surface in general. The positive surface photovoltage (SPV) gives an outward QD dipole with dipole potential of the order of 150 mV, in agreement with previous calculations. After HCl-etching, to complement the determination of the electric dipole, a giant negative SPV of −2.4 V, significantly larger than the InGaN bandgap energy, is discovered. This giant SPV is assigned to a large inward electric dipole, associated with the appearance of holes, matching the original QD lateral size and density. Such surprising result points towards unique photovoltaic effects and photosensitivity.
Highly responsive and rapid hydrogen peroxide-triggered degradation of polycaprolactone nanoparticles
Authors: Hsu Peng-Hao , Arboleda Carina , Stubelius Alexandra , Li Ling-Wei , Olejniczak Jason , Almutairi Adah
Published: April 2020

Nanoparticles formulated from fast-degrading oxidation-responsive polycaprolactone are responsive to 50 μM of H2O2.
Sediment and biofilm affect disinfectant decay rates during long-term operation of simulated reclaimed water distribution systems
Authors: Zhu Ni , Mapili Kris , Majeed Haniyyah , Pruden Amy , Edwards Marc A.
Published: April 2020

Unique water chemistry and operational conditions of reclaimed water distribution systems facilitated accumulation of sediment which resulted in depletion of disinfectants and microbial regrowth.
A one-pot synthesis of hetero-Co9S8–NiS sheets on graphene to boost lithium–sulfur battery performance
Authors: Chen Liang , Xie Xuefang , Zhang Zhian , Kong Xiangzhong , Liang Shuquan , Pan Anqiang
Published: April 2020

Graphene decorated with hetero-Co9S8–NiS sheets have abundant active sites, which can efficiently catalyze the electrochemical conversion of lithium polysulfides in Li–S battery.
Osteopromotive carbon dots promote bone regeneration through the PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 pathway
Authors: Jin Nianqiang , Jin Nuo , Wang Zilin , Liu Lili , Meng Lin , Li Daowei , Li Xing , Zhou Dabo , Liu Jie , Bu Wenhuan , Sun Hongchen , Yang Bai
Published: April 2020

Novel carbon dots induced ER stress and activated PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 pathway promote bone regeneration.
Pd/TiC/Ti electrode with enhanced atomic H* generation, atomic H* adsorption and 2,4-DCBA adsorption for facilitating electrocatalytic hydrodechlorination
Authors: Lou Zimo , Wang Zheni , Zhou Jiasheng , Zhou Chuchen , Xu Jiang , Xu Xinhua
Published: April 2020

Efficient dechlorination of a chlorinated aromatic compound was achieved with the application of a novel Pd/TiC/Ti electrode.
Energy transfer-driven regioselective synthesis of functionalized phenanthridines by visible-light Ir photocatalysis
Authors: Matsushita Yuki , Ochi Rika , Tanaka Yuya , Koike Takashi , Akita Munetaka
Published: April 2020

A photocatalytic strategy for selective synthesis of 2-substituted phenanthridines from N-iminylpyridinium salts has been developed.
Efficient extraction of aromatic amines in the air by the needle trap device packed with the zirconium based metal–organic framework sorbent
Authors: Alinaghi Langari Ali Akbar , Firoozichahak Ali , Alizadeh Saber , Nematollahi Davood , Farhadian Maryam
Published: April 2020

Development of a needle trap device (NTD) packed with UiO-66 adsorbent was used for the sampling of the aromatic amine compounds (including aniline, N,N-dimethylaniline and o-toluidine) followed by gas chromatography (GC) with flame-ionization detector (FID) analysis.
An improved synthesis of telmisartan via the copper-catalyzed cyclization of o-haloarylamidines
Authors: Zhang Junchi , Li Rui , Zhu Fuqiang , Sun Changliang , Shen Jingshan
Published: April 2020

A concise synthetic route of telmisartan was developed via the copper-catalyzed cyclization of o-haloarylamidines, avoiding the use of HNO3/H2SO4 and polyphosphoric acid (PPA).
GMBP1-conjugated manganese oxide nanoplates for in vivo monitoring of gastric cancer MDR using magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Zhan Wenhua , Cai Xiaoxia , Li Hairui , Du Getao , Hu Hao , Wu Yayan , Wang Lin
Published: April 2020

GMBP1 conjugated manganese oxide nanoplates for in vivo monitoring multidrug resistance of gastric cancer through magnetic resonance imaging.
Synthesis of highly substituted tetrahydroquinolines using ethyl cyanoacetate via aza-Michael–Michael addition
Authors: Palanimuthu Arunan , Chen Chinpiao , Lee Gene-Hsian
Published: April 2020

A three-component cascade reaction involving 2-alkenyl aniline, aldehydes, and ethyl cyanoacetate in the presence of DBU to synthesize highly substituted 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolines is reported.
Tantalum(v) 1,3-propanediolate β-diketonate solution as a precursor to sol–gel derived, metal oxide thin films
Authors: Beale Christopher , Hamacher Stefanie , Yakushenko Alexey , Bensaid Oumaima , Willbold Sabine , Beltramo Guillermo , Möller Sören , Hartmann Heinrich , Neumann Elmar , Mussler Gregor , Shkurmanov Alexander , Mayer Dirk , Wolfrum Bernhard , Offenhäusser Andreas
Published: April 2020

Synthesis of tantalum(v) 1,3-propanediolate β-diketonate solution and use in photochemical solution deposition to form tantalum oxide films.
Mitigating voltage losses in photoelectrochemical cell scale-up
Authors: Abdi Fatwa F. , Gutierrez Perez Ronald Ramiro , Haussener Sophia
Published: April 2020

Two-dimensional simulation quantifies the different losses in scaling-up photoelectrochemical cell, which can be minimized to ∼50 mV.
Interstitial oxygen defect induced mechanoluminescence in KCa(PO3)3:Mn2+
Authors: Chen Huimin , Bai Yuxing , Zheng Lirong , Wu Li , Wu Liwei , Kong Yongfa , Zhang Yi , Xu Jingjun
Published: April 2020

The interstitial oxygen atoms formed during the self-reduction are crucial for forming the trap levels and inducing mechanoluminescence.
Periodic event‐triggered control of flywheel energy storage matrix systems for wind farms
Authors: Sun Yizhuo , Hu Jiangping , Liu Jianxing
Published: April 2020

Flywheel energy storage plays a significant role in improving the reliability and efficiency of wind farm operations, in recent years. In order to reduce the communication burden, this study proposes a distributed algorithm based on the event triggered to coordinate the operation of wind farm and flywheel energy storage matrix system (FESMS). Different from the traditional sampling mechanism, a periodic sampling‐based event‐triggered condition, which is based on the disagreement vector and the measurement error, is proposed for the FESMS dispatch problem. Furthermore, a self‐triggered method is also studied as well considering the periodic sampling case. The algorithm achieves ratio consensus in a balanced directed graph topology. By simulation, the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is verified.
Battery state‐of‐charge‐based control and frequency regulation in the MMG system using fuzzy logic
Authors: Sahoo Saroja Kanti , Kishore Nudurupati Krishna
Published: April 2020

A multi‐microgrid (MMG) system comprises of a group of self‐sufficient microgrids capable of operating in grid‐connected, islanded, or interconnected modes. A three‐microgrid‐based MMG system consisting of a solar photovoltaic system, doubly‐fed induction generator‐based wind generation, and static synchronous compensator as distributed energy sources are considered. Each microgrid includes a battery interfaced with a bidirectional DC–DC converter. As there are multiple battery units in the MMG system, different states‐of‐charge (SoC) are evident in the batteries. Hence, there is a need to charge/discharge by following the SoC of the batteries. In this study, an intelligent scheme employing fuzzy logic is applied to monitor the SoC of the batteries and determine the reference current for current control through the bidirectional DC–DC converter in an MMG system. Microgrid frequency control in the MMG system is carried out using the proposed five‐membership function‐based fuzzy logic control. During sudden transient events, the proposed intelligent frequency control strategy shows an improved transient response as compared to conventional PI control. A multi‐input and multi‐output fuzzy logic‐based power management algorithm is proposed to handle multiple sources, batteries, and loads in the system. The MMG system with the proposed control is simulated using real‐time digital simulator OP4510 from OPAL‐RT.
Rapid region analysis for classification
Authors: Rasche Christoph
Published: April 2020

The authors describe and evaluate a method that detects ridges (symmetric axes) in an Euclidean distance map. The method detects ridge‐pixels with a local‐maxima search using only relational operations and has therefore minimal complexity. The resulting ridges exhibit a height profile that is suitable for region abstraction by means of simple parameterisation. The method is firstly evaluated on artificial stimuli with systematic shape variations using spatial jitter and contour fragmentation. Then it is mentioned, how the method can be used for developing region abstractions. Such abstractions have been already exploited in two tasks, hand‐written digit identification (MNIST database) and image classification (satellite images and images of urban/natural landscapes); the classification results of those systems are competitive.
Photovoltaic power plants in electrical distribution networks: a review on their impact and solutions
Authors: Mansouri Nouha , Lashab Abderezak , Guerrero Josep M. , Cherif Adnen
Published: April 2020

Photovoltaic (PV) technology is rapidly developing for grid‐tied applications around the globe. However, the high‐level PV integration in the distribution networks is tailed with technical challenges. Some technical challenges concern the stability issues associated with intensive PV penetration into the power system are reviewed in this study. To mitigate the voltage disturbances in a system with massive PVs integration, some techniques are devoted such as frequency regulation techniques, active power curtailment, reactive power injection (RPI), and storage energy. Also, with a high penetration level of distributed generators, the potential of dynamic grid support is discussed. Islanding operation and microgrid, operating using different control techniques, which ensure a smooth transition between grid‐connected and islanded operation modes as well as synchronisation between the two modes, are discussed.
Analysis of sea lamprey environmental DNA during lampricide treatment in a tributary of Lake Ontario
Authors: Tkachuk Kaitlyn A. , Dunn David A.
Published: April 2020

Sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) is a species of invasive parasitic fish in the Great Lakes region of North America. Accurate estimates of larval lamprey populations in lake tributaries are necessary for making control decisions regarding treatment of lake tributaries with 3-trifluoromethyl-4-nitrophenol (TFM), a piscicide toxic to lamprey larvae. Analysis of environmental DNA (eDNA) isolated from water samples is a recent innovation under consideration for sea lamprey biomonitoring. eDNA analysis was performed before and at three time points after TFM treatment in a tributary of Lake Ontario (Ninemile Creek) to assess presence of invasive sea lamprey. Lamprey DNA was detected in four out of four sample locations before TFM treatment and three of four locations 72 hours following treatment. No lamprey DNA was detected in any of the locations 4 months or 12 months after TFM treatment of the creek. These results are consistent with known effectiveness of TFM treatment and provide evidence for the potential of eDNA analysis as a tool for monitoring decline of larval sea lamprey abundance due to TFM treatments.
Attributes That Determine the Building Information Modelling Capability Maturity of Quantity Surveying Practice
Authors: Mahamadu Abdul-Majeed , Mahdjoubi Lamine , Manu Patrick , Aigbavboa Clinton
Published: April 2020

With more than 80% of all construction projects overrunning their budget, there is a need for more efficient management of the estimated 10% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) that is expended annually on construction across the world. It has been proposed that better information and data management through Building Information Modelling (BIM) will lead to cost savings and greater predictability. Notwithstanding the role of quantity surveyors (QS) in modelling and managing construction cost, they remain among the least capable of assimilating BIM into their existing traditional processes. Despite the increasing need for BIM capability assessments for projects, there remains, no tool specifically developed for assessing QS firm’s BIM utilisation capacity or performance. As a result, it is unclear the attributes that indicate BIM capability of QS firms as well as QS practices on projects. This study sought to address this through a review of BIM capability assessment frameworks in order to ascertain their suitability for QS practices. An expert focus group discussion was then used to identify peculiar attributes suitable for QS BIM capability assessment as a precursor to the development of a comprehensive model of QS BIM capability maturity. Findings reveal that most QS BIM capability attributes relate to processes including criteria for effective information definition and data management such that they are consistent with QS measurement standards. The BIM competence of staff also emerged as one of the key attributes highlighting the need for QSs to improve their knowledge, skills and experience in the application of BIM amidst current low levels of adoption. The proposed attributes would assist the development of performance and maturity indicators that would help QS firms better understand their own capability as well as the requirements for delivering costing services through BIM on projects.
Improving Formwork Using Lean Tools
Authors: Ko Chien-Ho , Kuo Jiun-De
Published: April 2020

Materials for modules and payments for your workers are some of the main expenses for the concrete structures with stiffness. In view of this, module construction is one of the essential factors if the project succeeds or not. Traditional module construction that is involved in those activities without adding values results in wastes. This study aimed at adopting a compact method to reduce waste in the module works. The compact module construction model is developed to achieve this goal. Andon of this model is made use of build a spot assurance system. Labours can be assisted immediately in case of any issues are raised. Besides Andon, module processes are introduced to the Kanban system to decrease mold stock and fulfil the flow of process behind ceaseless work. There was one real case discussed to verify if the proposed module applies to all. Application findings indicate that the developed method is able to conduct mandatory banishment in the module flow of the process and add value in the operation.
Key Factors Influencing Multimodal Transportation of Natural Block Rubber in Thailand
Authors: Pongsayaporn Pimnapa , Chinda Thanwadee , Ammarapala Veeris
Published: April 2020

Thailand is the world’s largest natural rubbers exporter. The major type of natural rubbers exported is block rubber. Currently, the transportation of natural rubbers in Thailand depends mainly on truck mode because of the convenience and extensive network of roads. However, Thailand confronts road transportation limitations including maximum acceptable weight, traffic congestion and high fuel prices. Dealing with these problems, the multimodal connection from roads to container yards (CY) and ports is expected to decrease logistics cost, and increase various opportunities to trade with neighbouring countries. This paper, thus, aims at examining key factors influencing the use of multimodal transportation utilizing the exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The principal components analysis (PCA) method, together with the eigenvalue over 1, factor loading of 0.40, and varimax rotation method, extracted five key factors with a total of 20 associated attributes, which are the Multimodal Operation, Service Operation, Multimodal Service Provider, Market Consideration, and Road Constraints factors. The result also pinpoints the capacity of container yard (CY) or port, accessibility to container yard (CY) or port, documentation process, logistics cost, adequacy of a multimode service provider, and law enforcement on truck driving hours, as crucial attributes in planning for multimodal transportation. This paper can be used as a guideline for a feasibility study of multimodal transportation of natural block rubber in Thailand.
Performance of Framework Contract Projects in South Africa
Authors: Ayegba Calistus , Root David
Published: April 2020

There is increasing adoption of framework contracts (FC) for construction project delivery in South Africa, but it is not yet clear what the performance of the approach is in accomplishing client's expected outcomes of projects being delivered on time, within budget and to required quality and satisfaction. In this study, the performance of FC and the variables that influences the performance is investigated empirically. A qualitative research methodology was adopted for the study. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews with key informants of eight purposively selected client organizations employing FC in South Africa. From the findings, FC is indicated to have performed spectacularly in dealing with unnecessary cost overruns, time delays, and improvement in the quality of delivery. However, it was reported that the approach work best for repetitive works and when a client has the intention of a long-term programme of work. In which case, clients also have to take care to avoid complacency from the contractors. The results provide substantial evidence that FC can perform better than the conventional approaches to short-term relationships and contracts. The result of the study provides insights that can encourage construction stakeholders to appreciate and adopt FC as a viable alternative approach for construction project delivery.
Strategic Risk Management among Small Enterprises in the Construction Industry
Authors: Baloyi Tlangelani , Ozumba Aghaegbuna
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this study is to develop knowledge around the practice of risk-management by small enterprises in the construction sector. The study will discuss the shortfalls in practice, and possible risk-management strategies suggested. This research is a literature review based study. An integrative review of a purposive sample of literature was used to generate articles discussing SMMEs and their business challenges. The search narrowed down to risk management articles with a specific focus on strategic risk management. The significant limitation to the study is the theoretical nature at this stage. Findings, however, suggest that non-systematic risk management in business operations by small enterprises and lack of innovative strategies that accommodate for market competition, hinder their transition to medium enterprises. However, small enterprises that practice strategic risk management stand a better chance of transitioning into medium enterprises because of their better understanding of risks and resource organization.
TALK Capability of Biomimicry for Disruptive and Sustainable Output in the Construction Industry
Authors: Aanuoluwapo Oguntona Olusegun , Ohis Aigbavboa Clinton
Published: April 2020

Several sustainability trends have evolved and proliferated for greening the processes and activities of the construction industry (CI). Striking among the trends is biomimicry, a novel and nature-inspired approach that seeks a sustainable solution to human challenges by emulating time-tested patterns and strategies in nature. This study sets out to evaluate biomimicry potentials for sustainable outputs in the construction industry. An extant review of the literature was conducted on nature-inspired approaches for sustainable and innovative solutions. Findings revealed technology readiness, awareness, leadership competence, and knowledge (TALK) as critical areas where biomimicry will offer a unique step-by-step path to disruptive outcomes and potentially aid the greening agenda of the construction industry.
Technical enablers of human errors and violations in construction
Authors: Emuze Fidelis , Mollo Lesiba
Published: April 2020

The performance of public sector projects in developing countries such as South Africa is an on-going concern in a region where injuries and fatalities are almost a daily occurrence in the industry. This reported study assessed the human errors and violations consistently encountered on public sector projects. The feedback from the survey research reinforced the notion that technical matters such as poor planning or the lack of it significantly erode safety system capacities on construction sites. The technical problems are aided by latent conditions such as design errors and negligence. The issues highlighted imply that public sector projects tend to fail to achieve the required conditions of satisfaction by clients. In other words, the reduction of human errors and violations as safety concerns should look beyond the set-up of construction site operations and people in the front line of construction.
The contribution of Project Team Personal Competence to Sustainable Outcomes in Development Projects
Authors: Dumrak Jantanee , Mostafa Sherif , Hadjinicolaou Nick
Published: April 2020

Projects are undertaken to serve the particular purposes of organizations. Many projects focus on having monetary benefits, but some projects are non-profit oriented and funded by international or national non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or donors to serve the development of communities. These funded projects are usually established in many disciplines including health, environment, economics, education, social and human rights in countries where the welfare of the population is deficient. From perspectives of project teams and sponsors, having a project-oriented approach allows more project control over their available resources and expected outcomes, especially long-term or sustainable outcomes. In this study, the term ‘sustainable outcomes’ refers to project activities and their outcomes that survive after the termination of external funding. Sustainable outcomes are derived from the maintenance of benefits generated from an initial project, the continuation of project activities within a new organization, and the maintenance of benefits realization. The sustainable outcomes are impacted by abilities to carry out both on¬going and long-term implementation. Therefore, it is important to ensure that personal competence in development projects contribute to sustainable outcomes. This study employs a correlation coefficient analyses to identify personal competence of project team members that contribute to achieving sustainable outcomes. Seventy-five respondents from development projects participated in the questionnaire survey. The research findings show that each of the sustainable outcome domain required different combinations of personal competence attributes.
Experimental investigation into characterization and machining of Al + SiCp nano-composites using coated carbide tool
Authors: Swain Pradyut Kumar , Mohapatra Kasinath Das , Das Ratnakar , Sahoo Ashok Kumar , Panda Amlana
Published: April 2020

The current research paper discusses the characterization and machining (turning) operation of aluminium (Al) and silicon carbide nano particle (SiCp) nano composite. The paper reveals proper distribution of silicon carbide nano particles (25nm) with aluminium metal matrix. Initially, tensile test has been carried on metal matrix nano composite to study its different properties. It was noticed that the properties of Al-SiCp increases by increasing the weight percentage of SiCp. Viker hardness test has also been conducted to find out the hardness of metal matrix nano composites. Different techniques i.e. Optical microscopy EDX-Analysis were utilized to find out various ingredients of the nano-composite material. The experimental study was carried out using Taguchi L16orthogonal array by taking three different factors at four different levels each. The response parameters i.e. flank wear of coated carbide insert and surface roughness of Al-SiCp has been optimized by using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Various graphs like main effect plot and normal probability plot have been plotted and studied properly. Different optical images of coated insert carbide tools (Insert CNMG 12040822TN 6010) at different runs were conducted to visualize the effects of process and response parameters. From the ANOVA table, it was found that cutting speed as well as depth of cut are found to the most vital parameters in influencing the responses for VBc and depth of cut and feed are found to the most significant parameters in influencing the responses for Ra.
A multiobjective optimization of journal bearing with double parabolic profiles and groove textures under steady operating conditions
Authors: Liu Chongpei , Zhong Ning , Lu Xiqun , Zhao Bin
Published: April 2020

The double parabolic profiles can help journal bearing to reduce bushing edge wear, but it also reduces load carrying capacity and increases friction loss. To overcome these drawbacks, in this study, a multiobjective optimization of journal bearing with double parabolic profiles and groove textures is researched under steady operating conditions using Taguchi and grey relational analysis methods. Firstly, a lubrication model with journal misalignment, elastic deformation, asperity contact, thermal effect is established and formation cause of drawbacks is illustrated. Then, an orthogonal test with considering six factors, i.e., groove number, groove depth, groove length, axial width of double parabolic profiles, radial height of double parabolic profiles and groove location is conducted, meanwhile the effects and significances of each factor on response variables are revealed. Finally, an optimal parameters combination of six factors is determined by grey relational analysis, which gives maximum load carrying capacity and minimum friction loss. Overall, this study may give guidance on journal bearing design to enhance its tribological performance.
Effects of double parabolic profiles with groove textures on the hydrodynamic lubrication performance of journal bearing under steady operating conditions
Authors: Liu Chongpei , Li Wanyou , Lu Xiqun , Zhao Bin
Published: April 2020

The textures on the bushing surface have important effects on the performance of journal bearing. In this study, the effects of double parabolic profiles with groove textures on the hydrodynamic lubrication performance of journal bearing under steady operating conditions are investigated theoretically. The journal misalignment, asperity contact and thermal effects are considered, while the profile modifications due to running-in are neglected. The Winkler/Column model is used to calculate the elastic deformation of bushing surface and the adiabatic flow hypothesis is adopted to obtain the effective temperature of lubricating oil. The numerical solution is established by using finite difference and overrelaxation iterative methods, and the rupture zone of oil film is determined by Reynolds boundary conditions. The numerical results reveal that the double parabolic profiles with groove textures with proper location and geometric sizes can increase load carrying capacity and reduce friction loss under steady operating conditions, which effectively overcome the drawbacks of double parabolic profiles. This novel bushing profile may help to reduce the bushing edge wear and enhance the lubrication performance of journal bearing.
Effect of hardening law and process parameters on finite element simulation of single point incremental forming (SPIF) of 7075 aluminum alloy sheet
Authors: Esmaeilpour Rasoul , Kim Hyunki , Park Taejoon , Pourboghrat Farhang , Agha Akshat , Abu-Farha Fadi
Published: April 2020

In the last two decades, the advances of using computers in sheet metal forming processes have introduced a novel adjustable process known as incremental sheet forming (ISF) as an optimal method for fast prototyping and low numbers of production. Formability and deformation behavior of ISF process are highly affected by the selected process parameters, such as the toolpath, step size, tool diameter, feed rate, and lubrication. The purpose of this work was to study the effect of these process parameters as well as hardening law on single point incremental forming (SPIF) process. For this work, a truncated-cone geometry was considered as a target shape with 7075-O aluminum alloy sheets. The simulations were conducted with different process parameters, i.e., toolpath type, step size, tool size, feed rate, friction coefficient, and wall angle with respect to the tool force and moment, effective plastic strain distribution and thickness of the part. In addition, three types of hardening laws i.e., isotropic extended Voce type hardening law, combined isotropic-kinematic Chaboche type hardening laws with single and double back-stress terms were applied in the finite element simulation of SPIF process. A detailed comparison of these hardening laws' predictions was made with respect to the tool force and moment, effective plastic strain distribution and thickness of the part.
Nutritional programming in early life: the role of dietary lipid quality for future health
Authors: van der Beek Eline M. , Oosting Annemarie
Published: April 2020

Worldwide, overweight and obesity have increased dramatically, not only in high income countries. Clearly, unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyle are important drivers of the increased obesity rates, but increasing evidence indicates that the vulnerability for later life non-communicable diseases is set during the first 1000 days, the period from conception until 2 years of age. The growth during this period is faster than during any other period in life. Dietary fats provide energy for growth, but also supply essential fatty acid (FA) precursors for long chain polyunsaturated FA that are building blocks and signals for adipose tissue development. Both epidemiological and experimental data support the notion that specific improvements in dietary fat quality,e.g.specific changes in the fatty acid composition as well as the structural organization of dietary lipids, may reduce the risk of obesity and other adverse outcomes in later life, but clinical evidence is limited and largely inconclusive. We anticipate that effects of such relatively small improvements in nutrient quality may be difficult to measure on the short term and have limited impact in healthy children. However, for children that already experience challenging conditions in the womb and have a higher risk profile based on deviations in birthweight and postnatal growth, the potential protective effects of improved dietary lipid quality in early life could be more substantial. Results from randomized clinical studies testing improved lipid quality concepts will help to develop specific strategies to adapt infant nutrition based on the need with the aim to improve long term outcomes.
Self-expanding metal stents versus TIPS in treatment of refractory bleeding esophageal varices: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mohan Babu P. , Chandan Saurabh , Khan Shahab R. , Kotagiri Rajesh , Kassab Lena L. , Olaiya Babatunde , Ponnada Suresh , Ofosu Andrew , Adler Douglas G.
Published: April 2020

Background and study aims Refractory and recurrent esophageal variceal (EV) bleeding can be life threatening. Self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) have been used as a “bridge” therapy. However, their role in the treatment protocol is not established due to paucity in data.

Methods We searched multiple databases from inception through May 2019 to identify studies that reported on SEMS and TIPS in refractory EV hemorrhage. Our primary goals were to analyze and compare the pooled all-cause mortality, immediate bleeding control and rebleeding rates.

Results Five hundred forty-seven patients from 21 studies were analyzed (SEMS: 12 studies, 176 patients; TIPS: 9 studies, 398 patients). The pooled rate of all-cause mortality with SEMS was 43.6 % (95 % CI 28.6–59.8, I2  = 38) and with TIPS was 27.9 % (95 % CI 16.3–43.6, I2  = 91). The pooled rate of immediate bleeding control with SEMS was 84.5 % (95 % CI 74–91.2, I2  = 40) and with TIPS was 97.9 % (95 % CI 87.7–99.7, I2  = 0). The pooled rate of rebleeding with SEMS was 19.4 % (95 % CI 11.9–30.4, I2  = 32) and with TIPS was 8.8 % (95 % CI 4.8–15.7, I2  = 40).

Conclusion Use of SEMS in refractory EV hemorrhage demonstrates acceptable immediate bleeding control with good technical success rate. Mortality and rebleeding rates were lesser with TIPS, however, its superiority and/ or inferiority cannot be validated due to limitations in the comparison methodology.
Endoscopic ultrasound-guided thrombin injection, a management approach for visceral artery pseudoaneurysms
Authors: Maharshi Sudhir , Sharma Shyam Sunder , Sharma Deepak , Sapra Bharat , Nijhawan Sandeep
Published: April 2020

Background and study aims Pseudoaneurysms are usually associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. There are limited data in the literature on endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided thrombin injection for pseudoaneurysms. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy and safety of EUS-guided thrombin injection for pseudoaneurysms.

Patients and methods This prospective study was conducted in our department between January and December 2018. All patients with symptomatic visceral artery pseudoaneurysms, who were unable to undergo angioembolization, were enrolled consecutively. Data related to demography, laboratory parameters, radiological imaging, pseudoaneurysms, and endotherapy were analyzed.

Results Eight patients with median age 34 years (27–58 years), all men, were studied. The vessel involved was the splenic artery in 5 patients (62.5 %), the left hepatic artery in 2 (25 %), and the gastroduodenal artery in 1 patient (12.5%). The median size of the pseudoaneurysms was 2.9 cm × 2.6 cm (range, 1.8 × 1.9–4 × 5 cm). The median thrombin requirement was 400 IU (range, 200–500 IU) for loss of Doppler flow signals. EUS after 3 months showed obliterated pseudoaneurysms in 7 patients (87.5 %), while recurrence was observed in 1 patient (12.5 %) after 6 weeks.

Conclusions EUS-guided thrombin injection may be a new option for the management of pseudoaneurysms.
Irregularly branched microvessels as visualized by magnifying endoscopy: a reliable marker for predicting deep submucosal invasion of superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Ono Yoichiro , Takaki Yasuhiro , Yao Kenshi , Ishikawa Satoshi , Miyaoka Masaki , Yano Yutaka , Nagahama Takashi , Hisabe Takashi , Hirai Fumihito , Ueki Toshiharu , Ota Atsuko , Tanabe Hiroshi , Haraoka Seiji , Iwashita Akinori , Mikami Koji , Maekawa Takafumi
Published: April 2020

Background and study aims Magnifying endoscopy with narrow-band imaging (M-NBI) is reported to be useful in diagnosing invasion depth of superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), but accurate diagnosis of deep submucosal invasion (SM2) has remained difficult. However, we discovered that irregularly branched microvessels observed with M-NBI are detected in SM2 cancers with high prevalence. Thus, this retrospective study aimed to investigate the diagnostic performance of irregularly branched microvessels as visualized by M-NBI for predicting SM2 cancers.

Patients and methods Patients with superficial esophageal SCC lesions that were endoscopically or surgically resected at our hospital between September 2005 and December 2014 were included. Endoscopic findings by M-NBI of these lesions were presented to an experienced endoscopist who was unaware of the histopathological diagnosis and who then judged whether irregularly branched microvessels were present. Using the invasion depth according to postoperative histopathological diagnosis as the gold standard, we determined the diagnostic performance of the presence of irregularly branched microvessels as an indicator for SM2 cancers.

Results A total of 302 superficial esophageal SCC lesions (228 patients) were included in the analysis. When irregularly branched microvessels were used as an indicator of SM2 cancers, the diagnostic accuracy was 94.0 % (95 % confidence interval [CI]: 91.1–96.1 %), sensitivity was 79.4 % (95 % CI: 66.6–88.4 %), specificity was 95.9 % (95 % CI: 94.3–97.0 %), positive predictive value was 71.1 % (95 % CI: 59.6–79.1 %), and negative predictive value was 97.3 % (95% CI: 95.7–98.5 %).

Conclusions Irregularly branched microvessels may be a reliable M-NBI indicator for the diagnosis of cancers with deep submucosal invasion.