bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
l-Acetylcarnitine: A Mechanistically Distinctive and Potentially Rapid-Acting Antidepressant Drug
Authors: Chiechio Santina , Canonico Pier , Grilli Mariagrazia
Published: December 2017

Current therapy of mood disorders has several limitations. Although a high number of drugs are clinically available, as of today, nearly two-thirds of individuals do not achieve full symptomatic remission after treatment with conventional antidepressants. Moreover, several weeks of drug treatment are usually required to obtain clinical effects, a limitation that has considerable clinical implications, ranging from high suicide risk to reduced compliance. The characteristic lag time in classical antidepressant effectiveness has given great impulse to the search for novel therapeutics with more rapid effects. l-acetylcarnitine (LAC), a small molecule of growing interest for its pharmacological properties, is currently marketed for treatment of neuropathic pain. Recent preclinical and clinical data suggested that LAC may exert antidepressant effects with a more rapid onset than conventional drugs. Herein, we review data supporting LAC antidepressant activity and its distinctive mechanisms of action compared with monoaminergic antidepressants. Furthermore, we discuss the unique pharmacological properties of LAC that allow us to look at this molecule as representative of next generation antidepressants with a safe profile.
Analytical Expressions for Numerical Characterization of Semiconductors per Comparison with Luminescence
Authors: Pereira Mauro
Published: December 2017

Luminescence is one of the most important characterisation tools of semiconductor materials and devices. Recently, a very efficient analytical set of equations has been applied to explain optical properties of dilute semiconductor materials, with an emphasis on the evolution of peak luminescence gain with temperature and its relation to sample quality. This paper summarizes important steps of the derivation of these expressions that have not been presented before and delivers a theoretical framework that can used to apply exactly solvable Hamiltonians for realistic studies of luminescence in various systems.
Chronic Monosodium Glutamate Administration Induced Hyperalgesia in Mice
Authors: Zanfirescu Anca , Cristea Aurelia , Nitulescu George , Velescu Bruno , Gradinaru Daniela
Published: December 2017

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a widely used food additive. Although it is generally considered safe, some questions regarding the impact of its use on general health have arisen. Several reports correlate MSG consumption with a series of unwanted reactions, including headaches and mechanical sensitivity in pericranial muscles. Endogenous glutamate plays a significant role in nociceptive processing, this neurotransmitter being associated with hyperalgesia and central sensitization. One of the mechanisms underlying these phenomena is the stimulation of Ca2+/calmodulin sensitive nitric oxide synthase, and a subsequent increase in nitric oxide production. This molecule is a key player in nociceptive processing, with implications in acute and chronic pain states. Our purpose was to investigate the effect of this food additive on the nociceptive threshold when given orally to mice. Hot-plate and formalin tests were used to assess nociceptive behaviour. We also tried to determine if a correlation between chronic administration of MSG and variations in central nitric oxide (NO) concentration could be established. We found that a dose of 300 mg/kg MSG given for 21 days reduces the pain threshold and is associated with a significant increase in brain NO level. The implications of these findings on food additive-drug interaction, and on pain perception in healthy humans, as well as in those suffering from affections involving chronic pain, are still to be investigated.
Vitamin E (α- and γ-Tocopherol) Levels in the Community: Distribution, Clinical and Biochemical Correlates, and Association with Dietary Patterns
Authors: Waniek Sabina , Di Giuseppe Romina , Esatbeyoglu Tuba , Plachta-Danielzik Sandra , Ratjen Ilka , Jacobs Gunnar , Nöthlings Ute , Koch Manja , Schlesinger Sabrina , Rimbach Gerald , Lieb Wolfgang
Published: December 2017

Little is known about the distribution and determinants of circulating vitamin E levels in a German population. In this cross-sectional study we assessed the distribution of both α- and γ-tocopherol levels, identified their clinical and biochemical correlates, and assessed their relationships with a priori and a posteriori derived dietary patterns. Plasma α- and γ-tocopherol concentrations were measured using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection in 641 individuals (mean-age: 61 years; 40.6% women). Correlates of both markers were determined using linear regression with backward selection. Using a validated food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ), an a priori defined vitamin E-rich dietary pattern was constructed, and three a posteriori derived dietary patterns were identified by principal component analysis. Each pattern was related to α- and γ-tocopherol levels using linear regression. Median concentrations of α- and γ-tocopherol were 31.54 μmol/L and 1.35 µmol/L, respectively. 57.6% of participants had α-tocopherol levels >30 µmol/L. Triglycerides, high density lipoprotein (HDL)- and low density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, and vitamin E supplementation were identified as correlates of vitamin E levels. After excluding supplement users, a dietary pattern rich in meat, bread, fats, potatoes, and sugar/confectionery was inversely related to α-tocopherol levels (β, −0.032, SE = 0.016; p = 0.047). Prospective studies are warranted to evaluate the actual impact of the reported findings in terms of nutrition and health outcomes.
Prediction of Drug-Drug Interactions with Bupropion and Its Metabolites as CYP2D6 Inhibitors Using a Physiologically-Based Pharmacokinetic Model
Authors: Xue Caifu , Zhang Xunjie , Cai Weimin
Published: December 2017

The potential of inhibitory metabolites of perpetrator drugs to contribute to drug-drug interactions (DDIs) is uncommon and underestimated. However, the occurrence of unexpected DDI suggests the potential contribution of metabolites to the observed DDI. The aim of this study was to develop a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for bupropion and its three primary metabolites—hydroxybupropion, threohydrobupropion and erythrohydrobupropion—based on a mixed “bottom-up” and “top-down” approach and to contribute to the understanding of the involvement and impact of inhibitory metabolites for DDIs observed in the clinic. PK profiles from clinical researches of different dosages were used to verify the bupropion model. Reasonable PK profiles of bupropion and its metabolites were captured in the PBPK model. Confidence in the DDI prediction involving bupropion and co-administered CYP2D6 substrates could be maximized. The predicted maximum concentration (Cmax) area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) values and Cmax and AUC ratios were consistent with clinically observed data. The addition of the inhibitory metabolites into the PBPK model resulted in a more accurate prediction of DDIs (AUC and Cmax ratio) than that which only considered parent drug (bupropion) P450 inhibition. The simulation suggests that bupropion and its metabolites contribute to the DDI between bupropion and CYP2D6 substrates. The inhibitory potency from strong to weak is hydroxybupropion, threohydrobupropion, erythrohydrobupropion, and bupropion, respectively. The present bupropion PBPK model can be useful for predicting inhibition from bupropion in other clinical studies. This study highlights the need for caution and dosage adjustment when combining bupropion with medications metabolized by CYP2D6. It also demonstrates the feasibility of applying the PBPK approach to predict the DDI potential of drugs undergoing complex metabolism, especially in the DDI involving inhibitory metabolites.
Titanium(III, IV)-Containing Catalytic Systems for Production of Ultrahigh Molecular Weight Polyethylene Nascent Reactor Powders, Suitable for Solventless Processing—Impact of Oxidation States of Transition Metal
Authors: Tuskaev Vladislav , Gagieva Svetlana , Kurmaev Dmitrii , Kolosov Nikolay , Mikhaylik Elena , Golubev Evgenii , Sizov Alexander , Zubkevich Sergey , Vasil’ev Viktor , Nikiforova Galina , Buzin Mikhail , Serenko Olga , Bulychev Boris
Published: December 2017

Catalytic systems containing TiCl4 or TiCl3, THF, organomagnesium (n-Bu2Mg) and organoaluminum compounds capable of producing ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) were developed. The resulting polymers were characterized by a molecular weight in the range of (1.8–7.8) × 106 Da and desirable morphology, suitable for modern methods of polymer processing—the solvent-free solid-state processing of superhigh-strength (tensile strength up to 2.1 GPa) and high-modulus (elastic modulus up to 125 GPa) oriented films and film tapes. The impacts of a THF additive, the oxidation state of the titanium atom, and the composition and nature of the nontransition organometallic compounds on the formation of catalytic systems for UHMWPE production were evaluated. The results indicate the suitability of individual titanium chloride tetrahydrofuran complex application for the formation of THF-containing catalytic systems. This approach also results in a significant increase in the system catalytic activity and mechanical properties of UHMWPE. The catalysts based on Ti(III) were inferior to systems containing Ti(IV) in productivity but were markedly superior in the mechanical properties of UHMWPE.
Big Data Integration in Remote Sensing across a Distributed Metadata-Based Spatial Infrastructure
Authors: Fan Junqing , Yan Jining , Ma Yan , Wang Lizhe
Published: December 2017

Since Landsat-1 first started to deliver volumes of pixels in 1972, the volumes of archived data in remote sensing data centers have increased continuously. Due to various satellite orbit parameters and the specifications of different sensors, the storage formats, projections, spatial resolutions, and revisit periods of these archived data are vastly different. In addition, the remote sensing data received continuously by each data center arrives at a faster code rate; it is best to ingest and archive the newly received data to ensure users have access to the latest data retrieval and distribution services. Hence, an excellent data integration, organization, and management program is urgently needed. However, the multi-source, massive, heterogeneous, and distributed storage features of remote sensing data have not only caused difficulties for integration across distributed data center spatial infrastructures, but have also resulted in the current modes of data organization and management being unable meet the rapid retrieval and access requirements of users. Hence, this paper proposes an object-oriented data technology (OODT) and SolrCloud-based remote sensing data integration and management framework across a distributed data center spatial infrastructure. In this framework, all of the remote sensing metadata in the distributed sub-centers are transformed into the International Standardization Organization (ISO) 19115-based unified format, and then ingested and transferred to the main center by OODT components, continuously or at regular intervals. In the main data center, in order to improve the efficiency of massive data retrieval, we proposed a logical segmentation indexing (LSI) model-based data organization approach, and took SolrCloud to realize the distributed index and retrieval of massive metadata. Finally, a series of distributed data integration, retrieval, and comparative experiments showed that our proposed distributed data integration and management program is effective and promises superior results. Specifically, the LSI model-based data organization and the SolrCloud-based distributed indexing schema was able to effectively improve the efficiency of massive data retrieval.
Cross-Domain Ground-Based Cloud Classification Based on Transfer of Local Features and Discriminative Metric Learning
Authors: Zhang Zhong , Li Donghong , Liu Shuang , Xiao Baihua , Cao Xiaozhong
Published: December 2017

Cross-domain ground-based cloud classification is a challenging issue as the appearance of cloud images from different cloud databases possesses extreme variations. Two fundamental problems which are essential for cross-domain ground-based cloud classification are feature representation and similarity measurement. In this paper, we propose an effective feature representation called transfer of local features (TLF), and measurement method called discriminative metric learning (DML). The TLF is a generalized representation framework that can integrate various kinds of local features, e.g., local binary patterns (LBP), local ternary patterns (LTP) and completed LBP (CLBP). In order to handle domain shift, such as variations of illumination, image resolution, capturing location, occlusion and so on, the TLF mines the maximum response in regions to make a stable representation for domain variations. We also propose to learn a discriminant metric, simultaneously. We make use of sample pairs and the relationship among cloud classes to learn the distance metric. Furthermore, in order to improve the practicability of the proposed method, we replace the original cloud images with the convolutional activation maps which are then applied to TLF and DML. The proposed method has been validated on three cloud databases which are collected in China alone, provided by Chinese Academy of Meteorological Sciences (CAMS), Meteorological Observation Centre (MOC), and Institute of Atmospheric Physics (IAP). The classification accuracies outperform the state-of-the-art methods.
Development and Application of Eddy Current Sensor Arrays for Process Integrated Inspection of Carbon Fibre Preforms
Authors: Berger Dietrich , Lanza Gisela
Published: December 2017

This publication presents the realisation of a sensor concept, which is based on eddy current testing, to detect textile defects during preforming of semi-finished carbon fibre parts. The presented system has the potential for 100% control of manufactured carbon fibre based components, allowing the immediate exclusion of defective parts from further process steps. The core innovation of this system is given by the high degree of process integration, which has not been implemented in the state of the art. The publication presents the functional principle of the sensor that is based on half-transmission probes as well as the signals that can be gained by its application. Furthermore, a method to determine the optimum sensor resolution is presented as well as the sensor housing and its integration in the preforming process.
Indigenous Studies Speaks to American Sociology: The Need for Individual and Social Transformations of Indigenous Education in the USA
Authors: Jacob Michelle
Published: December 2017

Despite legislation to increase educational success for racial and ethnic minorities in the USA, educational disparities persist. I examine this trend among Indigenous peoples in the state of Oregon, but extend it to education systems across the USA. In Oregon, American Indians have the poorest educational attainment of all racial and ethnic groups; only 55% of American Indians graduate on time. I examine this problem from a critical sociological perspective, answering the call for sociology to end its “complicity in the elimination of the native”. I argue education systems are extensions of settler colonial logics and power structures. I propose educational transformations built upon Indigenous cultural teachings, advocating that we follow an Indigenous educational framework that has as its foundation: (1) Indigenous elders’ instructions that education should teach us to be “real human beings”; (2) Indigenous teachings that invite us to engage in reflexivity to understand the “spirit” of our work; and (3) my own Yakama teachings on utilizing a decolonizing praxis within educational institutions. I conclude that American sociology needs to draw from Indigenous Studies scholarship to better understand and address the education inequalities facing Indigenous peoples in the USA.
The Impact of Political Cleavages, Religiosity, and Values on Attitudes towards Nonprofit Organizations
Authors: Kovic Marko , Hänsli Nina
Published: December 2017

Individual, micro-level attitudes towards nonprofit organizations (NPOs) can have many potential determinants. In this study, we explore the impact of three categories of potential determinants of attitudes towards NPOs: Political cleavages (the cultural integration vs. demarcation cleavage and the economic integration vs. demarcation cleavage); religiosity and spirituality; and values (the survival vs. self-expression value dimension). Based on a representative survey in Switzerland, we estimate the impact of those factors for five different attitudinal dimensions and six different NPO types. The Bayesian model estimates show that all three categories of determinants have small to moderate impact. The effects of religiosity, spirituality, the self-expression value dimension, and of economic integration are generally positive. The effects of the survival value dimension and of cultural demarcation are generally negative, with the exception of the NPO type of professional associations.
Could Black Be the New Gold? Design-Driven Challenges in New Sustainable Luxury Materials for Jewelry
Authors: Lerma Beatrice , Dal Palù Doriana , Actis Grande Marco , De Giorgi Claudia
Published: December 2017

Is there a new material for use in jewelry, matching gold and precious stones, capable of maintaining the same perception of “preciousness” but that is also more sustainable, ethical, and inexpensive? This article deals with a case study within the European EcoDesign Network research project, aimed at investigating how sustainable design can help prestigious companies pinpoint new materials for the creation of jewelry, focusing on new and environmentally friendly opportunities while preserving their market position and target audience. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed. Adopting the exploring design path, a jewelry background analysis pointed out both stereotypes and possible innovations in the jewelry field: an analysis was carried out on the perception of jewels by a panel guided by a cognitive ergonomics specialist, also using the eye-tracking machine to examine participants’ reactions to the jewelry involved in the study, and to establish paradigms of sustainability, preciousness, and innovation. Several meta-project proposals regarding innovations in materials and finishing were hypothesized and tested, following the main guidelines and principles of ecodesign. Lastly, a prototyping phase and some mechanical tests were implemented to verify the hypotheses of innovation. The results allowed the creation of a first set of sustainable jewelry, currently on the market.
Effluents from Fish Farming Ponds: A View from the Perspective of Its Main Components
Authors: Coldebella Anderson , Gentelini André , Piana Pitágoras , Coldebella Priscila , Boscolo Wilson , Feiden Aldi
Published: December 2017

Among the animal protein production activities, world aquaculture has the highest growth rate, and is mainly practiced in ground-excavated ponds. However, with great productivity comes the concern about the increasing generation of effluents, mainly at the moment of fish removal, when high loads of organic matter and nutrients are released into the environment. Thus, this study evaluated the quality of effluents through the principal component analysis (PCA) in samples from nurseries of different sizes in four sampling scenarios. Analysis was performed during the process of fish removal in Nile Tilapia intensive fish farming sites at various properties in the Western region of Paraná State in Brazil. Twenty physical and chemical parameters were analyzed in each effluent sample using standard methods of effluent analysis. The results indicated that the concentrations of Suspended Solids (SS), Total Solids (TS), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and Total Phosphorus (TP) increased significantly at the end of the fish removal process, which caused a progressive deterioration in the effluent released into the environment. Hence, regulating water management during cultivation, as well as mitigating the effects of effluent generated in fish removal, is indispensable to maintain the legality, profitability, and sustainability of this sector.
Innovative Corporate Initiatives to Reduce Climate Risk: Lessons from East Asia
Authors: Barbier Edward , Burgess Joanne
Published: December 2017

Businesses, investors, and insurers are requiring better quantitative assessments of their exposure to climate risks and their impact on climate change. They are incorporating these assessments in their day-to-day management and long-term investment decisions. Already, there are efforts to develop international guidelines, common policies and legal frameworks for such assessments, as well as the desire to foster climate financing. We examine recent progress in East Asia and the rest of the world in setting targets, pricing policies, and other mechanisms to reduce climate risks. We develop a model that demonstrates how reduced climate risk management may lower the total cost of capital of firms, thus making them more attractive to investors. We discuss the additional policies needed to support improved climate risk management in investment decisions, private investments in climate science, technology and innovation (STI) expansion, and more widespread adoption of climate financing and principles. Central banks, financial authorities, and governments can advance this objective by creating financial incentives to support investment decision-making. This would take into account factors such as improving climate performance, establishing better climate risk management and reporting requirements to foster green STI, and developing international guidelines and common policy and legal frameworks to support better climate risk management, assessments and reporting.
High Incidence and Levels of Ochratoxin A in Wines Sourced from the United States
Authors: De Jesus Christopher , Bartley Amanda , Welch Aaron , Berry John
Published: December 2017

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is one of the most prevalent mycotoxin contaminants of food crops. Among the agricultural products consequently contaminated by OTA is wine. In the present study, a sample of wines sourced from the United States was assessed for OTA. Wines were primarily analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (HPLC-FD) coupled to a liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) technique which was developed and validated as a simplified sample preparation approach. More than 85% of the wines evaluated were found to contain OTA, at levels above the limit-of-detection (LOD = 0.1 µg L−1), and 76% were above the limit-of-quantitation (LOQ = 0.3 µg L−1) for the LLE/HPLC-FD method. More than two-thirds of the wines above the LOQ were found to exceed 1 µg L−1. Complementary analysis by HPLC coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) confirmed OTA in 74% of the OTA-positive wines (i.e., >LOQ by HPLC-FD). Overall, both the occurrence and measured levels of OTA were generally high, specifically relative to previous assessments of OTA in wine, and two of the wines were above the only current (European Union) regulatory limit of two parts-per-billion (ppb, ~2 µg L−1). Possible trends with respect to geographical region and/or growing climate are noted. As the first assessment of U.S. wines in more than a decade, the overall high occurrence and levels of OTA in wine, and possible geographic and climatic trends, point to a need for regular surveillance of wines, as well as investigation of the relevant contributors to OTA occurrence toward mitigating contamination and exposure risks.
Tectus niloticus (Tegulidae, Gastropod) as a Novel Vector of Ciguatera Poisoning: Detection of Pacific Ciguatoxins in Toxic Samples from Nuku Hiva Island (French Polynesia)
Authors: Darius Hélène , Roué Mélanie , Sibat Manoella , Viallon Jérôme , Gatti Clémence , Vandersea Mark , Tester Patricia , Litaker R. , Amzil Zouher , Hess Philipp , Chinain Mireille
Published: December 2017

Ciguatera fish poisoning (CFP) is a foodborne disease caused by the consumption of seafood (fish and marine invertebrates) contaminated with ciguatoxins (CTXs) produced by dinoflagellates in the genus Gambierdiscus. The report of a CFP-like mass-poisoning outbreak following the consumption of Tectus niloticus (Tegulidae, Gastropod) from Anaho Bay on Nuku Hiva Island (Marquesas archipelago, French Polynesia) prompted field investigations to assess the presence of CTXs in T. niloticus. Samples were collected from Anaho Bay, 1, 6 and 28 months after this poisoning outbreak, as well as in Taiohae and Taipivai bays. Toxicity analysis using the neuroblastoma cell-based assay (CBA-N2a) detected the presence of CTXs only in Anaho Bay T. niloticus samples. This is consistent with qPCR results on window screen samples indicating the presence of Gambierdiscus communities dominated by the species G. polynesiensis in Anaho Bay. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analyses revealed that P-CTX-3B was the major congener, followed by P-CTX-3C, P-CTX-4A and P-CTX-4B in toxic samples. Between July 2014 and November 2016, toxin content in T. niloticus progressively decreased, but was consistently above the safety limit recommended for human consumption. This study confirms for the first time T. niloticus as a novel vector of CFP in French Polynesia.
High Affinity Binding of Escherichia coli Cytotoxic Necrotizing Factor 1 (CNF1) to Lu/BCAM Adhesion Glycoprotein
Authors: Reppin Franziska , Cochet Sylvie , El Nemer Wassim , Fritz Günter , Schmidt Gudula
Published: December 2017

The protein toxin Cytotoxic Necrotizing Factor 1 (CNF1) is a major virulence factor of pathogenic Escherichia coli strains. It belongs to a family of single chain AB-toxins, which enter mammalian cells by receptor-mediated endocytosis. Recently, we identified the Lutheran (Lu) adhesion glycoprotein/basal cell adhesion molecule (BCAM) as a cellular receptor for CNF1. Here, we identified the Ig-like domain 2 of Lu/BCAM as main interaction site of the toxin by direct protein-protein interaction and competition studies. Using surface plasmon resonance, we showed a high affinity CNF-Lu/BCAM interaction with a KD of 2.8 nM. Furthermore, we performed small-angle X-ray scattering to define the molecular envelope of the Lu/BCAM-CNF1 complex, suggesting a 6:1 ratio of Lu/BCAM to CNF1 in the receptor-toxin complex. This study leads to a deeper understanding of the interaction between CNF1 and Lu/BCAM, and presents novel opportunities for the development of future anti-toxin strategies.
HTLV-1, the Other Pathogenic Yet Neglected Human Retrovirus: From Transmission to Therapeutic Treatment
Authors: Futsch Nicolas , Mahieux Renaud , Dutartre Hélène
Published: December 2017

Going back to their discovery in the early 1980s, both the Human T-cell Leukemia virus type-1 (HTLV-1) and the Human Immunodeficiency Virus type-1 (HIV-1) greatly fascinated the virology scene, not only because they were the first human retroviruses discovered, but also because they were associated with fatal diseases in the human population. In almost four decades of scientific research, both viruses have had different fates, HTLV-1 being often upstaged by HIV-1. However, although being very close in terms of genome organization, cellular tropism, and viral replication, HIV-1 and HTLV-1 are not completely commutable in terms of treatment, especially because of the opposite fate of the cells they infect: death versus immortalization, respectively. Nowadays, the antiretroviral therapies developed to treat HIV-1 infected individuals and to limit HIV-1 spread among the human population have a poor or no effect on HTLV-1 infected individuals, and thus, do not prevent the development of HTLV-1-associated diseases, which still lack highly efficient treatments. The present review mainly focuses on the course of HTLV-1 infection, from the initial infection of the host to diseases development and associated treatments, but also investigates HIV-1/HTLV-1 co-infection events and their impact on diseases development.
STRUCTURAL AND DURABILITY ANALYSIS OF A NOVEL RE-ROOFING CONCEPT
Authors: RICHMAN Russell , BENTZ Evan , JERMYN Denver , SUN Chang
Published: December 2017

Metal roof decks in long-span light steel structures can become damaged and obsolete by corrosion should the roofing system become compromised. Re-roofing is conducted by either removing and replacing damaged areas (resulting in suspension of interior operations and lost revenue) or installing new decking directly over the damaged areas which can transfer corrosion to the new deck. This research conducts structural and durability analyses on a novel proposed re-roofing concept that installs a new metal roof deck over the existing deck by using a proprietary deck strap resulting in no interruption of interior processes. Preliminary structural analysis shows the proposed concept to be applicable to generic conditions around Southern Ontario. Recommendations for project specific structural analysis are made. Durability analysis demonstrates that the proposed concept system improves hygrothermal performance of the roof assembly in all cases except when insulation in the existing roof assembly is saturated. Saturated insulation should be removed prior to installing the re-roofing system.
AMBIENT VIBRATIONAL CHARACTERIZATION OF THE NOSSA SENHORA DAS DORES CHURCH
Authors: MESQUITA Esequiel , BRANDÃO Francisco , DIOGENES Aldecira , ANTUNES Paulo , VARUM Humberto
Published: December 2017

The present paper shows the vibrational characterization tests of a clay brick heritage construction from XIX century, the Nossa Senhora das Dores Church, placed in Sobral, Brazil. In this study the calibration of the 3D finite element numerical model of the church was performed through ambient vibrational testing using the first three natural frequencies identified. The obtained results, namely the natural frequencies identified, and the calibrated model intends to give a contribute for understanding of the structural behavior of the Brazilian heritage constructions, and introduces relevant information for be used for safety assessment of the church along the time.
CREATIVE METHODS IN TRANSFORMING EDUCATION USING HUMAN RESOURCES / KŪRYBINIAI METODAI PERTVARKANT ŠVIETIMĄ PASITELKUS ŽMOGIŠKUOSIUS IŠTEKLIUS
Authors: YASMIN Musarat , SOHAIL Ayesha , SARKAR Mela , HAFEEZ Rizwana
Published: December 2017

Language teaching has become more learner-centered for last three decades. Teachers with a potential of being change-agent received considerable attention of researchers. Teachers need to reconsider their traditional role in helping learners control their learning. Present study investigated viable autonomy-supportive teaching role and creative practices teachers can follow to aid their learners in becoming autonomous. Data were collected from 16 university teachers teaching English communication skills at Bachelor of Science level in public sector universities of the Punjab, Pakistan. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted to gather teachers’ perceptions. Results revealed that teachers perceived their role vital in developing learner autonomy but they considered a meaningful change in present role with a gradual shift of learning responsibilities from teacher to learner. Moreover, 11 autonomy-supportive teaching practices were suggested to enable learners to control their learning. Study proposed teachers to be trained for their new role, and must have teaching autonomy to materialize autonomy-supportive practices.
The Use of Digital Software Applications and Digital Atlases to Supplement Anatomy Teaching to Undergraduate Allied Health Students
Authors: Kenway Leanne C. , Bakr Mahmoud M.
Published: December 2017

Teaching anatomy has traditionally been restricted to didactic lectures and cadaveric dissection, where students are required to rote learn, without focus on analysis, conceptualisation, and clinical reasoning. A shift in pedagogical practices has occurred with rapidly developing online technologies now embedded within many university degree programs. Anatomy education has evolved to include new teaching modalities, such as computer-assisted learning including the use of 2D images or 3D models, web-based interactive games, virtual reality, augmented simulation, and haptics. Dissection courses have been found to be time-consuming and expensive, and in many universities, time committed to teaching is on the decline, there are increased costs associated with running body donation programs, and larger student numbers have led to fewer laboratory sessions available to students for learning. This chapter focuses on the use of digital atlases as a useful supplement to teaching anatomy in not only medical but all the allied health professions.
Non-Conventional Feedstock and Technologies for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Martinez-Guerra Edith , Muppaneni Tapaswy , Gude Veera Gnaneswar , Deng Shuguang
Published: December 2017

Increased consumption and energy security issues have led many developed and developing countries to seek methods to produce alternative fuels. Biodiesel is one such high-density alternative fuel that can increase the longevity of transportation fuels. Biodiesel can be produced from a wide range of feedstock using simple process schemes. In the past, edible oils were used as feedstock for biodiesel fuel production; however, use of non-traditional feed stock like waste cooking oil, non-edible oils, animal fats, and algae can make biodiesel production a sustainable process. The high free fatty acids content in the feedstock, longer reaction rates, high energy consumption, and the catalysts used in the conversion process pose some limitations for current biodiesel production. These limitations can be addressed by developing novel process techniques such as microwaves and ultrasound and by developing non-catalytic transesterification methods. Enhancing byproduct recovery seems to be an important strategy to improve the energy footprint and economics of current biodiesel production.
W. Edwards Deming as a Guide for Reducing Risk in Project Management
Authors: Bialaszewski Dennis
Published: December 2017

There is a major difference between completing a project and completing a project that is judged as a project completed in a quality manner, it is not enough to just get something done!!! What is much more important is to complete a project what is judged as to be a work of quality. If one aims at quality at the onset one can maximize the probability of completing the project while reducing the risk of failure. One of the earliest pioneers in the field of QUALITY is W. Edwards Deming. Some consider Japan's post World War 2 economic recovery as truly miraculous and the person given much of the credit for guiding Japan to this recovery was an American named W. Edwards Deming. Deming did this by reinforcing the importance of applying principles of Total Quality Management through the recovery, The Prime Minister of Japan awarded Dr. Deming with one of the most prestigious awards that can be earned in Japan when he awarded Deming Japan's Order of the Sacred Treasure, Second Class. This article will detail the importance of these principles for reducing risk.
Emergent Issues in the World War Against Global Terrorism
Authors: Strang Kenneth David
Published: December 2017

The chapter examines the impact of global terrorism on the top most-impacted nations. Global terrorism continues to impact many nations. There are two impacts – actual attacks causing deaths injuries and/or property damage as well as the emerging culture of fear where human rights have regressed – both impact the risk and contingency management community of practice. The critical analysis method is integrated with a meta-analysis of selected studies. Retrospective and inductive analysis techniques are applied. The risk of global terrorism is reviewed and calculated for the most-impacted nations. The recommendations address the emergent risks for contingency planning specialists, practitioners and researchers to consider. Additionally, future research directions are provided.
Packaging without the Package - A More Holistic Moore's Law
Authors: Iyer (Subu) Subramanian S.
Published: December 2017

Silicon features have scaled by over 1500X for over six decades, and with the adoption of innovative materials delivered better power-performance, density and till recently, cost per function, almost every generation. This has spawned a vibrant system-on-chip (SoC) approach, where progressively more function has been integrated on a single die. The integration of multiple dies on packages and boards has, however, scaled only modestly by a factor of three to five times. However, as SoCs have become bigger and more complex, the Non-Recurring Engineering (NRE) Charge and time to market have both ballooned out of control leading to ever increasing market consolidation. We need to address this problem through novel methods of system Integration. With the well-documented slowing down of scaling and the advent of the Internet of Things, there is a focus on heterogeneous integration and system-level scaling. Packaging itself is undergoing a transformation that focuses on overall system performance through integration rather than on packaging individual components. We propose ways in which this transformation can evolve to provide a significant value at the system level while providing a significantly lower barrier to entry compared with a chip-based SoC approach that is currently used. More importantly it will allow us to re-architect systems in a very significant way. This transformation is already under way with 3-D stacking of dies, Wafer level fan-out processing, and will evolve to make heterogeneous integration the backbone of a new SoC methodology, extending to integrate entire Systems on Wafers (SoWs). We will describe the technology we use and the results to-date. This has implications in redefining the memory hierarchy in conventional systems and in neuromorphic systems. We extend these concepts to flexible and biocompatible electronics.
Electronics Outside the Box: Building a Manufacturing Ecosystem for Flexible Hybrid Electronics
Authors: Leever Benjamin
Published: December 2017

As the electronics in our daily lives proliferate, they continue to be largely limited to rigid form factors with bulky packaging dictated by traditional electronics manufacturing processes and fragile components. Yet for applications ranging from wireless, low-profile medical devices to smart food labels to aircraft with embedded stress sensors, there's a need for high-performance electronics that conform to the shape of our bodies, vehicles, and consumer goods. Flexible Hybrid Electronics (FHE), which combine additive manufacturing processes with flexible silicon will enable these capabilities. To move these concepts from the lab to the manufacturing floor in the United States, the Department of Defense established NextFlex, America's Flexible Hybrid Electronics Manufacturing Institute in 2015. Based in San Jose, CA, NextFlex is a $170M public-private partnership that is building a domestic FHE manufacturing ecosystem by developing manufacturing processes and tools with its member companies and universities, standing up an FHE manufacturing pilot line in Silicon Valley, and establishing education and workforce development programs to train tomorrow's workforce. This presentation will focus on the FHE opportunity, the NextFlex FHE manufacturing roadmaps, and NextFlex projects in areas such as device integration & packaging, modeling & design tools, and printed flexible components.
Trends in Contemporary Orthodontic Research Publications: Evaluation of Three Major Orthodontic Journals
Authors: Kumar Prasanna M. P. , Handa Ashish , Nehra Karan , Sharma Mohit
Published: December 2017

Background

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the inclination of orthodontic research published in original articles in three of the most popular and recognized orthodontic journals with high impact factor; American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics (AJODO), the Angle Orthodontist (AO), and European Journal of Orthodontics (EJO) published in a 5-year duration time frame (2010–2014).

Materials and Methods

Online search with supplementary hand searching was undertaken for original research articles in these three orthodontic journals from 2010 to 2014. Classification of data was completed autonomously by manual and direct appraisal of the manuscript of each journal.

Results and Conclusion

Three thousand one hundred and forty articles published in AJODO, AO, and EJO in the particular time period were selected, out of which 1783 original research study articles (56.78%) were appraised for classification in their various respective knowledge domains. AO (82.73%) and EJO (76.99%) were relatively more committed toward publication of research work in comparison to AJODO (34.55%). Research articles based on perception and questionnaires (12%), temporary anchorage devices (11%), cone-beam computed tomography (8%), invisible orthodontics (lingual orthodontics, clear aligners, esthetic brackets, and wires) (5%), and airway examination (5%) were the five most recurrently selected subjects of interest (41%) in these three journals during the observation period. The total number of research articles published in the three journals reduced statistically significantly in 2014 when compared to 2010.
La Galerie de l'Evolution
Authors: Petter Francis
Published: December 2017

La Galerie de l’Evolution remplacera la Galerie de Zoologie inaugurée en 1889. Une «Cellule de Préfiguration » prépare, au Muséum, le détail des thèmes qui y seront traités : la diversité des espèces, l’histoire de la vie, les théories et mécanismes de l'évolution, l'homme et la nature.
Applicabilité au Québec d’un outil français d'investigation écopathologique des troubles digestifs après le sevrage en élevage porcin
Authors: Ravel André , Allaire Sylvie d’ , Bigras-Poulin Michel , Martineau Guy-Pierre
Published: December 2017

Cette étude avait pour objectif de déterminer l’applicabilité au Québec d’un outil écopathologique français d’investigation des troubles digestifs après le sevrage en élevage porcin intensif. Cet outil détermine le niveau des troubles cliniques et le niveau du risque circonstanciel associé à partir de 13 variables. Il a été appliqué dans 60 élevages québécois choisis au hasard. Pour chacun, la valeur des 13 variables a été mesurée, parfois avec difficulté et les niveaux des troubles et du risque déterminés. Cette présentation discute des problèmes pratiques et méthodologiques liés à l’utilisation de l’outil. Il y a quatre niveaux de mesure tous analysés sur le même plan. De plus, l’outil s’applique de façon statique sur des phénomènes dynamiques. Enfin, la similitude entre l’élevage d’application et les élevages bretons qui ont servi à l’élaboration de l’outil n’a pas été rencontrée. Les distributions de 10 des 13 variables sont significativement différentes entre l’échantillon d’élevages québécois et l’échantillon d’élevages bretons. Comme cette similitude est nécessaire pour appliquer l’outil, celui-ci n’est donc pas utilisable au Québec.
Fièvre aphteuse : mesures envisagées en France à la suite de l'arrêt de la vaccination dans les pays de la CEE
Authors: Gourreau Jean-Marie , Bédès Georges-François , Merlin Paul
Published: December 2017

Suite à la décision du Conseil des Ministres de la CEE de suspendre au 1er janvier 1992 la vaccination antiaphteuse dans les états-membres, les auteurs, après en avoir évoqué les raisons, décrivent les nouvelles mesures prophylactiques envisagées en France pour éviter l’apparition et l’éventuelle extension de la maladie. Ces mesures, qui font l’objet d’une loi, d’un décret et d’un arrêté d’application, sont décomposées en trois chapitres, le premier concernant la prévention, le second, la suspicion et le troisième, la confirmation de la maladie.
Le système français de lutte contre la fièvre aphteuse (1962-1990)
Authors: Fleckinger Robert
Published: December 2017

Après avoir rappelé la situation continentale de la France dans le contexte de l’Europe géographique au sens large et le caractère enzooto-interépizootique permanent de la fièvre aphteuse dans le pays avant 1962, l’auteur expose la stratégie de lutte contre ce fléau calamiteux à partir de 1962 et que l’on a qualifié de système français ou même de miracle français. Ce système, qui associe dans sa logique de lutte, la vaccination systématique obligatoire annuelle généralisée des bovins (mesure fondamentale de prophylaxie générale) aux mesures incidentes ponctuelles d’abattage au foyer et de vaccination périfocale (mesures complémentaires), a été effectivement appliqué durant près de trente années.

Les résultats sanitaires et économiques sont examinés, de même que la part que l’on peut attribuer respectivement aux mesures de vaccination et d’abattage.

Il apparaît, sous le regard du temps, que le système français, où la vaccination généralisée représente un appoint systématique à la lutte sanitaire, a non seulement libéré la France de la fièvre aphteuse profondément enracinée, mais encore a permis de parer à tout développement épizootique et en particulier d’éviter les graves épizooties qui ont sévi après 1962 dans plusieurs pays d’Europe.

Le système français, aujourd’hui trentenaire, a apporté une sécurité sanitaire sans précédent, qui vaut une assurance ; il a contribué, de manière bénéfique, non seulement au développement de notre économie intérieure et extérieure, mais aussi au progrès en élevage tant sur le plan de la sélection génotypique qui implique le long terme que sur le plan des prophylaxies animales appliquées à d’autres maladies.
Interprétation de la loi du 16 juillet 1984 sur les anabolisants
Authors: Seynave René Lucien , Séry Claude
Published: December 2017

Interpretation of the «prohibition of anabolics» law 1984.

The authors scrutinize the penal steps of complicated legal proceedings that point out the problem facing french authorities relating to the legal use under supervision of some anabolics not with standing the principle of the prohibition of these drugs stated by the law.

The review of the ruling of the courts shows clearly that the penalties laid down by the law have to be applied without the need of the mental regulation stated in its article 7 ; on condition that the reality of an offence is demonstrated.

This interpretation fits in with the point of view stated by EEC Directive in this matter, rejecting any use of anabolics.
Plan de surveillance permanent (P.S.P.) appliqué à la maladie de Gumboro
Authors: Rossigneux Roland , Chéritel Pierre , Martin Damien , Morel Marylène
Published: December 2017

En 1988, la technique ELISA fut appliquée à un Plan de Surveillance Permanent (PSP) de la maladie de Gumboro. L’omniprésence de cette maladie fut mise en évidence dans les régions de Bretagne, des Pays-de-Loire et du Sud-Ouest de la France et son incidence sur les performances techniques démontrées.

Un certain nombre d’affirmations ne furent pas entièrement confirmées par l’exploitation statistique d’un grand nombre de résultats du terrain :

- la protection passive par les anticorps d’origine maternelle n’atteint pas l’âge de 28 jours ; ce titre moyen durant la période de production subit des effets “booster”, conséquence du passage de virus sauvages ; enfin, l’hétérogénéité des titres sur les poules et par voie de conséquence sur les poussins était éminemment variables.

Ainsi les questions suivantes apparaissent plus compliquées que prévu :

- choix de l’âge du poussin à la vaccination ;

- la valeur prédictive du contrôle de la vaccination des reproductrices avec un vaccin tué, à l’âge de 18 semaines ;

- fiabilité et qualité des techniques d’injections du vaccin tué.