bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VEGFR2 survival and mitotic signaling depends on joint activation of associated C3ar1/C5ar1 and IL-6R–gp130
Authors: Hwang Ming-Shih , Strainic Michael G. , Pohlmann Elliot , Kim Haesuk , Pluskota Elzbieta , Ramirez-Bergeron Diana L. , Plow Edward F. , Medof M. Edward
Published: February 2019

Purified vascular endothelial cell (EC) growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2) auto-phosphorylates upon VEGF-A occupation in vitro, arguing that VEGR2 confers its mitotic and viability signaling in and of itself. Herein, we show that, in ECs, VEGFR2 function requires concurrent C3a/C5a receptor (C3ar1/C5ar1) and IL-6 receptor (IL-6R)–gp130 co-signaling. C3ar1/C5ar1 or IL-6R blockade totally abolished VEGFR2 auto-phosphorylation, downstream Src, ERK, AKT, mTOR and STAT3 activation, and EC cell cycle entry. VEGF-A augmented production of C3a/C5a/IL-6 and their receptors via a two-step p-Tyk2/p-STAT3 process. Co-immunoprecipitation analyses, confocal microscopy, ligand pulldown and bioluminescence resonance energy transfer assays all indicated that the four receptors are physically interactive. Angiogenesis in murine day 5 retinas and in adult tissues was accelerated when C3ar1/C5ar1 signaling was potentiated, but repressed when it was disabled. Thus, C3ar1/C5ar1 and IL-6R–gp130 joint activation is needed to enable physiological VEGFR2 function.
How to … keep resident transport smooth through winter
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: February 2019

Taking trips outside the home is a highlight for many residents, therefore it is important to ensure that these trips can continue to take place even during winter. Adrian Ashurst summarises the main points to get vehicles ready for the cold season.
Evaluating and Improving Teacher Educators’ Language-Oriented Performance in Content-Based Teaching
Authors: Swart Fenna , Knèzic Dubravka , Onstenk Jeroen , Graaff Rick de
Published: February 2019

In general, teacher educators are considered to be educational specialists whose main task is to communicate content-based concepts to prospective teachers. However, unfortunately, most studies on teacher professional development overlook this specific language-oriented aspect of content-based teaching. Therefore, we address the aforementioned research gap and argue that teacher educators’ evaluation of their language-oriented performance in educational communication enhances the quality of their content-based teaching. Accordingly, we examine how the language-oriented performance of teacher educators is evaluated by both individual teacher educators (sample size N=3) and their students (N=32) in a small-scale intervention study. The findings of the study reveal that there is a relationship between the order of application of five language focus areas (i.e., language awareness, active listening, formalizing interaction, language support, and language and learning development, as noticed by the students), and teacher educators’ ability to apply these areas in accordance with their objectives related to content-based teaching.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of trainee- versus consultant surgeon-performed elective total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Singh Prashant , Madanipour Suroosh , Fontalis Andreas , Bhamra Jagmeet Singh , Abdul-Jabar Hani B.
Published: February 2019

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is one of the most commonly performed orthopaedic procedures. Some concern exists that trainee-performed THA may adversely affect patient outcomes. The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare outcomes following THA performed by surgical trainees and consultant surgeons. A systematic search was performed to identify articles comparing outcomes following trainee- versus consultant-performed THA. Outcomes assessed included rate of revision surgery, dislocation, deep infection, mean operation time, length of hospital stay and Harris Hip Score (HHS) up to one year. A meta-analysis was conducted using odds ratios (ORs) and weighted mean differences (WMDs). A subgroup analysis for supervised trainees versus consultants was also performed. The final analysis included seven non-randomized studies of 40 810 THAs, of which 6393 (15.7%) were performed by trainees and 34 417 (84.3%) were performed by consultants. In total, 5651 (88.4%) THAs in the trainee group were performed under supervision. There was no significant difference in revision rate between the trainee and consultant groups (OR 1.09; p = 0.51). Trainees took significantly longer to perform THA compared with consultants (WMD 12.9; p < 0.01). The trainee group was associated with a lower HHS at one year compared with consultants (WMD -1.26; p < 0.01). There was no difference in rate of dislocation, deep infection or length of hospital stay between the two groups. The present study suggests that supervised trainees can achieve similar clinical outcomes to consultant surgeons, with a slightly longer operation time. In selected patients, trainee-performed THA is safe and effective.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2019;4:44-55. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.4.180034.
Narrow Grass Hedge Effects on Microbial Transport Following Variable Applications of Beef Cattle Manure
Authors: Durso Lisa A. , Gilley John E. , Marx David B. , Woodbury Bryan L.
Published: February 2019

Abstract

. The effectiveness of a 1.4 m wide grass hedge in reducing microbial transport following manure application was examined in this study. Beef cattle manure was applied to 0.75 m wide by 4.0 m long plots established on an Aksarben silty clay loam located in southeast Nebraska. Manure was added at rates required to meet none or the 1-, 2-, or 4-year nitrogen requirements for corn. The transport of phages, total coliforms, , and enterococci was measured for three 30 min simulated rainfall events, which were separated by approximately 24 h intervals. The narrow grass hedge reduced total counts of phages, , and enterococci from 10.8 to 9.01 log PFU ha-1, from 12.4 to 11.9 log CFU ha-1, and from 11.8 to 11.2 log CFU ha-1, respectively. For the plots that received manure, no significant differences in transport of phages or enterococci were found among the three manure application rates. Rainfall simulation run significantly affected measurements of phages, total coliforms, and enterococci, with measurements during the three runs varying from 8.91 to 10.5 log PFU ha-1, from 12.7 to 13.3 log CFU ha-1, and from 11.2 to 11.7 log CFU ha-1, respectively. Counts for phages, total coliforms, and enterococci were significantly less for the first than the second and third rainfall simulation runs. All four of the microbial constituents were significantly correlated to dissolved P, particulate P, total P, and total N. A narrow grass hedge placed on the contour significantly reduced microbial transport following variable applications of beef cattle manure. Keywords: Bacteria, Cattle manure, E. coli, Filter strips, Land application, Manure management, Manure runoff, Microbial, Microorganisms, Runoff.
Performance of Small-Scale Technology in Planting and Cutback Operations of Short-Rotation Willow Crops
Authors: Borz Stelian  Alexandru , Nita Mihai  Daniel , Talagai Nicolae , Scriba Cezar , Grigolato Stefano , Proto Andrea R.
Published: February 2019

Abstract.

Modern bioenergy crops have potential to play a crucial role in the global energy mix, especially under policies to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. The management of short-rotation willow crops involves several operations that deliver biomass for different uses. In commercial-scale operations, high-performance, mostly automated equipment is frequently used; however, in small-scale operations, smallholder farmers adapt traditional agricultural equipment to fit their needs. This study evaluated the field performance of planting and cutback operations in small-scale willow crops using equipment that was characterized by a low level of technological integration. Following the implementation of both operations, the planting work rates ranged from 0.216 to 0.300 ha h-1, depending on the soil preparation and planting density. Delays significantly reduced the field performance, resulting in gross work rates of 0.149 to 0.230 ha h-1. By comparison, cutback operations had higher work rates of 2.31 and 2.35 ha h-1 for gross and net production, respectively. These rates dropped to approximately 1.77 and 2.00 ha h-1, respectively, due to time spent in headland turns and other delays. Possibilities to improve the field performance depend on good preparation of the soil prior to planting, which includes removal of agricultural residue. In the case of cutback operations, avoiding backward movement of the equipment when additional headland space is available and an improved field layout may shorten the time spent in headland turns. The results indicate that small-scale energy crop plantations can be sustainable in terms of efficiency when unspecialized technologies are used. Therefore, small-scale agriculture can make a positive contribution to climate change mitigation targets. Keywords: Bioenergy, Biomass, Cutting, Plantation, Mechanization, Short-rotation coppice, SRC.
Assessment of the Effect of Al2O3 and TiO2 Nanoparticles on Orange Peel Biomass and its Application for Cd (II) and Ni (II) Uptake
Authors: Herrera-Barros Adriana , Tejada-Tovar Candelaria , Villabona-Ortíz Angel , González-Delgado Ángel , Mejía-Meza Rodolfo José
Published: February 2019

Abstract.

In recent years, nanotechnology has been used to synthesize novel materials with several applications, such as wastewater treatment, medicine, and packaging. In this study, titanium dioxide (TiO2) and alumina (Al2O3) nanoparticles were synthesized and used to modify orange peel (OP) biomass. The resulting materials (OP-TiO2 and OP-Al2O3) were applied as biosorbents for removing nickel and cadmium from an aqueous solution. FT-IR, SEM-EDS, and XRD analyses were carried out to determine functional groups of biomass, morphology and elemental composition of the biosorbent, and average particle size, respectively. The presence of hydroxyl, carboxyl, and amine groups in the biomass spectra contributed to the adsorption process. Successful synthesis of the biosorbents due to the presence of aluminum and titanium elements was confirmed by energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The average particle size was calculated as 19.13 ±4.1 nm and 58.56 ±12.64 nm for TiO2 and Al2O3, respectively. The solution pH significantly affected the adsorption process, and pH of 4 to 6 was selected as a suitable range. The highest removal yields of 87.85% and 95.6% were achieved using OP-Al2O3 for nickel and cadmium uptake, respectively. These results revealed an improvement in adsorption properties after loading the orange peel biomass with nanoparticles. Keywords: Biosorbent, Heavy metals, Nanomaterials, Wastewater treatment.
Preserving Juice from Industrial Beets Using Organic Acids
Authors: Monono Ewumbua M. , Wiesenborn Dennis P. , Vargas-Ramirez Juan M. , Zhou Ruanbao
Published: February 2019

Abstract. Efficient and cost-effective methods are necessary to preserve the sugars in beet juice to enable year-long end-processing into bioproducts. Organic acids are effective preservatives that could be produced from a fraction of the sugars in beet juice to preserve the remaining sugar fraction. The preserving acids and remaining sugars may then serve as fermentation substrates in other bioprocesses. The effectiveness of organic acids to preserve sugars in beet juice has not been reported. Therefore, the objective of this work was to screen several potentially effective organic acids for their ability to accomplish sugar preservation in beet juice. Six organic acids (acetic, butyric, citric, lactic, propionic, and pyruvic) were used in three storage experiments in which beet juice was stored at four pH levels (5.3, 5, 4.25, and 3.5) and at 22.5°C for 21 to 38 days. Butyric, citric, and propionic acids helped preserve at least 92% of sugars at pH = 4.5, and lactic acid only at pH 3.5. Meanwhile, acetic and pyruvic acids helped preserve up to 88% of sugars at pH 3.5. Changes observed in the stored beet juice mainly occurred within the first 10 days, and thereafter the juice appeared stable. Before the storage experiments, the response of beet juice pH to different amounts of added acid was evaluated. There was an exponential decrease in pH as the molar ratio of acid increased. Future research should focus on developing methods to achieve the desired storage conditions and validating storage techniques through final fermentations of stored juice. Keywords: Acidification, Beta vulgaris, Fermentable sugars, Organic acid, pH, Refractometric dissolved solids, Sugarbeet.
Strangers No More? The Case of Glory Presbyterian Church (GPC) Chinese-Indonesian Church in the San Francisco Bay Area, California
Authors: Suleeman Stephen
Published: February 2019

Este artículo aborda las dinámicas que se desarrollan dentro de la congregación Glory Presbyterian Church (GPC) – una comunidad sino-indonesa en San Francisco, California, EEUU – en torno a las relaciones entre diversos grupos donde se ponen en juego diferencias culturales, teológicas y generacionales. Allí se evidencian las tensiones que emergen en relación a los procesos de inclusión/exclusión entre grupos sino-indonesios – que son parte de la iglesia – y otros colectivos que llegan a ese espacio eclesial. El artículo permite visualizar las tensiones y (re)apropiaciones que se dan sobre la construcción del sentido de «identidad», en un marco inscripto en tensiones socio-culturales, políticas y religiosas.

Palabras clave: Identidad, racialización, Glory Presbyterian Church, iglesias étnicas.
Phanerozoic Climate and Vertical Tectonic Cycles
Authors: croll james
Published: February 2019

Evidence of kilometre scale uplift and subsidence at locations remote from any recognised plate boundaries, the existence of mega-sequences of post-rift marine sediments over widespread intra-cratonic areas, and the consideration that pulses of deposition display a clear periodicity and synchronicity over widely dispersed spatial domains, remain largely unresolved issues within current geological theory. While the exact timing of uplift and erosion associated with major unconformities are difficult to assess, the age of sediments immediately above provide vital temporal markers for the onset of subsidence and associated sea level rise. By reconsidering the much studied sedimentary sequences of the Grand and Bryce Canyon areas the following will show that the at least over the Phanerozoic eon the initiation of new pulses of deposition occur at times when earth climate is emerging from ice-house to hot-house conditions. Furthermore, the recorded periods in which global occurrences of epeirogeny have occurred will be shown to correlate closely with the end of hot-house periods and the onset of ice-house global climate conditions. Finally, some tentative thermo-geodynamic explanations for this apparent causal link between global climate and vertical tectonics will be suggested.
The kimono in New Spain: a local manifestation of a global fashion in the 17th and 18th centuries
Authors: Torres Andreia Martins
Published: February 2019

This paper examines the kimono to emphasize the role of Japanese material culture in the development of an Asian-inspired taste in fashion of New Spain. From that idea, it shows that some Nipponese products contributed to the occurrence of an achinado code in dress since the seventeenth century, and that was consolidated during the following century. The adoption of a connected history perspective, as well as the use of written and pictorial documents, allowed us to identify its pioneering role in that tendency as well as in its American diffusion. At the same time, we recognized the intersected points of view between Asia, Europe and America to adapt and change the meaning of that garment, until it becomes a dressing gown.
Community of Practitioners: Solusi Alternatif Berbagi Pengetahuan antar Pustakawan
Authors: Supriyadi Supriyadi
Published: February 2019

Tujuan Tulisan ini menyajikan tentang pentingnya komunitas praktisi dalam berbagi ilmu pengetahuan (knowledge sharing) antara sesama pustakawan, dengan harapan menjadi problem solving dari setiap persoalan yang berhubungan dengan pekerjaan pustakawan, baik berkaitan dengan hal-hal yang bersifat teknis, konsep atau pun  perencanaan. Metodologi atau Pendekatan - yang digunakan dalam tulisan ini menggunakan metode atau pendekatan kepustakaan (library research), sedangkan  pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan menelaah dan/atau mengekplorasi beberapa Jurnal, buku, dan dokumen-dokumen (baik yang berbentuk cetak maupun elektronik) serta sumber-sumber data dan atau informasi lainnya yang dianggap relevan dengan kajian.Temuan dalam kajian ini adalah Pada komunitas praktisi ada tiga karakteristik yang menjadi pembeda utama dari komunitas-komunitas lainnya yaitu, ada Domain, Community dan anggota harus berasal dari para praktisi yang mempunyai kesamaan profesi, komunitas ini hanya diikat oleh trust antara sesama anggota walaupun pada perkembangannya pembentukan komunitas ini mulai masuk sistem atau manajemen suatu perusahaan sebagai wadah knowledge sharing internal. Berbagi ilmu pengetahuan terkait pekerjaan menjadi ciri khas dari  komunitas praktisi dan output nya dapat memproduksi ilmu-ilmu baru yang kita sebut sebagai inovasi dalam menyelesaikan suatu persoalan atau pekerjaan tak terkecuali di perpustakaan. Diperpustakaan komunitas praktisi dilakukan dengan cara mengelompokkan para pustakawan berdasarkan bidang perkerjaan atau jabatan, antara sirkulasi dengan bidang sirkulasi, pengadaan antar sesama pengadaan, bagian shelving dengan sesama bagian shelving dan begitu seterusnya, dan semua para praktisi ini bertemu untuk berbagi pengetahuan dengan sesama praktisinya dalam suatu komunitas yang kita sebut sebagai kumunitas praktisi.
Seputar Pengalaman Penduduk Miskin Pedesaan dalam Mencari, Menggunakan, dan Mendokumentasikan Informasi Kesehatan
Authors: Yusup Pawit M. , Komariah Neneng
Published: February 2019

Penelitian ini bertujuan mengkaji secara lebih mendalam tentang seputar pengalaman penduduk miskin pedesaan dalam mencari, menggunakan, dan mendokumentasikan informasi dan sumber-sumber informasi kesehatan. Fokus kajiannya adalah bagaimana saat mereka dihadapkan pada kondisi dan situasi pilihan sulit ketika menghadapi permasalahan kesehatan yang menimpa anggota keluarganya. Dengan menggunakan metode survei wawancara terhadap 36 orang kepala keluarga miskin di pedesaan Jawa Barat, diperoleh hasil bahwa pilihan prioritas mereka lebih banyak mencari dan menggunakan informasi dan sumber-sumber informasi kesehatan dari kerabat dan tetangga dekat, kemudian ke tempat-tempat pengobatan umum seperti dokter, bidan, atau ahli pengobatan lainnya. Mereka juga berobat ke orang pintar yang ada di desa. Ketika penyakitnya dianggap berat atau tidak kunjung sembuh, mereka mencari pinjaman ke tetangga atau kerabat dekat untuk biaya berobat. Jika usaha untuk meminjam uang tidak berhasil, mereka lebih banyak diam, berdoa, dan pasrah. Karena ketiadaan biaya, mereka sering mengungkapkan, berobat bisa ditunda, sedangkan makan tidak. Hanya sebagian kecil saja dari mereka yang menyimpan data alamat praktik pengobatan dalam bentuk secarik kertas dengan maksud untuk sediaan informasi yang mungkin berguna di kemudian hari.
Persepsi Pemustaka tentang Layanan Reserve Books UPT Perpustakaan UNDIP
Authors: Haryani Haryani
Published: February 2019

Kajian Persepsi Pemustaka tentang  Layanan Reserve Books pada UPT Perpustakaan Universitas Diponegoro merupakan kajian yang dilakukan untuk mengetahui persepsi pemustaka tentang kualitas layanan Reserve Books UPT Perpustakaan Universitas Diponegoro yang dilihat melalui koleksi, temu balik informasi, infrastruktur dan sumber daya manusia. Metode yang digunakan dalam  kajian ini adalah metode kuantitatif. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner, sedangkan penyebaran kuesioner menggunakan kuota sampling. Keseluruhan responden  berjumlah 50 (lima puluh) orang mahasiswa dari 12 (dua belas) fakultas yang ada di lingkungan Universitas Diponegoro serta pemustaka yang berasal dari luar Universitas Diponegoro. Pengambilan sampel dilakukan dengan kuota sampling. Hasil kajian  dari indikator koleksi yang meliputi kelengkapan dan keragaman judul buku, kebaruan tahun terbit, kondisi fisik buku dan ketersediaan buku dipersepsikan oleh pemustaka sudah baik ; hasil dari indikator infrastruktur yang meliputi pencayahayaan ruang, kenyamanan pendingin ruangan,serta  sarana penelusuran juga dipersepsikan pemustaka sudah baik ; hasil dari indikator SDM meliputi keramahan, sikap, responsivitas, penampilan petugas/pustakawan dipersepsikan sudah baik ; hasil untuk indikator temu balik informasi yang meliputi penataan koleksi dan kesesuaian penataan koleksi dengan kode rak  dipersepsikan sudah baik sedangkan untuk kecepatan atau kemudahan  menemukan bahan pustaka pada rak serta validasi data pada OPAC masih dipersepsikan kurang baik.
Subject Guide: Profesionalisme Pustakawan dalam Bimbingan Informasi dan Penerapannya
Authors: Rizkyantha Okky
Published: February 2019

Profesionalisme pustakawan tidak hanya dilihat seberapa lama ia bekerja sebagai seorang pustakawan maupun dari jenjang pendidikannya. Yang perlu dilihat dari profesionalisme pustakawan adalah kompetensi pustakawan dan kreativitas yang nyata dapat memberikan kemudahan kepada pemustaka dalam mendapatkan informasi. Artikel ini berusaha untuk memberikan pandangan mengenai profesionalisme pustakawan melalui subject guide, dan peran pustakawan dalam penelusuran informasi bagi masyarakat. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian studi pustaka atau literatur. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan melalui analisa buku, website, dan karya ilmiah yang terkait dengan judul. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa (1) pustakwan sebagai konsultan informasi bagi pemustaka memberikan bimbingan informasi kepada pemustaka dalam mencari informasi yang dibutuhkan (2) Subject guide sebagai bentuk kreativitas pustakawan dalam memberikan pelayanan serta sebagai alat pembuktian profesionalisme pustakawan.
Accuracy assessment of consecutive test strip lots for whole blood INR point-of-care instruments: clarifying the role of frozen plasma pools
Authors: van den Besselaar Antonius M.H.P. , Abdoel Charmane F. , van Rijn Claudia J.J. , van der Meer Felix J.M. , Cobbaert Christa M.
Published: February 2019

Background

In the Netherlands, each new lot of test strips for the CoaguChek XS is validated by a group of collaborating centers. The purpose of this study was to assess the accuracy of the international normalized ratio (INR) measured with consecutive test strip lots and the suitability of frozen plasma pools for accuracy evaluation.

Methods

Each year, a particular lot of CoaguChek XS test strips is used as reference lot. The reference lots have been validated with the International Standard for thromboplastin rTF/09, yielding a mathematical relationship (R1) between reference lot INR and International Standard INR. New lots are compared to the reference lot using patients’ capillary blood samples, yielding a relationship (R2) between the new lot INR and the reference lot INR. INRs of the blood samples were within the 1.5–4.5 interval. In parallel, three frozen plasmas pools are analyzed with the test strips. The distance of each plasma point to the line of relationship R2 was assessed.

Results

Fifty-four test strip lots have been evaluated during 3 years (2014–2016). Mean INR differences between test strip lot and International Standard rTF/09 varied between −0.14 and +0.20 (−4% and +8%, respectively). A positive trend with strip lot sequence number was observed (p<0.001). In several cases, the distance of the frozen plasmas to the whole blood relationship (R2) was greater than the critical value for commutability.

Conclusions

Using whole blood, all evaluated test strip lots met the analytical bias criterion of ±10%. Frozen plasma pools behave differently compared to whole blood and are not suitable for assessing absolute accuracy of new CoaguChek XS test strips.
Using Volatile Organic Compounds in Waste Streams as Fuel
Authors: Dogu Doruk , Sohn Hyuntae , Bhattacharya Shubho , Cornelius Chris , Ozkan Umit S.
Published: February 2019

To meet the environmental regulations, volatile organic compounds (VOC) in waste streams of various industries are thermally oxidized before being released to the atmosphere. This thermal oxidation process requires use of additional fuel and energy, has high operational costs and requires frequent maintenance. As an alternative, these VOCs can be considered as fuels themselves. Even without considering the energy used for the supplemental fuel such as natural gas, the enthalpy of the VOCs incinerated is not negligible. Hydrogen, a valuable energy carrier, can be produced from VOCs by reforming them. In this study, a system that can reform VOCs in the exhaust stream of paint finishing operations and use it to produce hydrogen that can be used in a fuel cell for power generation was designed. Steam reforming experiments were conducted on different VOCs using a 10 % Co/CeO2 catalyst. The effect of different functional groups and the chain length was examined. This study shows the potential of dilute VOCs in the waste stream of many industries if they can be recovered and used as a fuel effectively instead of being incinerated.
Dynamic Load Balancing Strategy for Parallel Tumor Growth Simulations
Authors: Salguero Alberto G. , Tomeu-Hardasmal Antonio J. , Capel Manuel I.
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we propose a parallel cellular automaton tumor growth model that includes load balancing of cells distribution among computational threads with the introduction of adjusting parameters. The obtained results show a fair reduction in execution time and improved speedup compared with the sequential tumor growth simulation program currently referenced in tumoral biology. The dynamic data structures of the model can be extended to address additional tumor growth characteristics such as angiogenesis and nutrient intake dependencies.
Thermomechanical nonlinear stability of pressure-loaded CNT-reinforced composite doubly curved panels resting on elastic foundations
Authors: Trang Le Thi Nhu , Tung Hoang Van
Published: February 2019

Nonlinear stability of nanocomposite spherical and cylindrical panels reinforced by carbon nanotubes (CNTs), resting on elastic foundations and subjected to uniform external pressure in thermal environments is investigated in this paper. CNTs are embedded into matrix phase through uniform distribution (UD) or functionally graded (FG) distribution, and effective properties of CNT-reinforced composite are estimated through an extended rule of mixture. Governing equations are based on classical shell theory taking geometrical nonlinearity, initial geometrical imperfection and panel-foundation interaction into consideration. Approximate solutions of deflection and stress functions are assumed to satisfy simply supported boundary conditions and Galerkin method is applied to obtain nonlinear load-deflection relation. Numerical examples show the effects of volume fraction and distribution type of CNTs, in-plane condition of edges, curvature of panel, thermal environments, elastic foundations and imperfection size on the nonlinear response and snap-through instability of the curved panels. The present study reveals that efficiency of CNT distribution type depends on curvature of panel and in-plane behavior of boundary edges, and bifurcation type buckling response of pressure-loaded panels may occur at elevated temperature.
From academic research to founding a company: the story of AiCuris
Authors: Rübsamen-Schaeff Helga
Published: February 2019

This contribution describes the experiences with three careers: leading and building an academic research institute, heading a research area in a multinational pharma company and founding and leading a biotech company, which saw its first drug successfully enter the market in its 11th year of existence. The three positions had very different challenges, the common denominator for success was good and innovative science. However, research in a commercial environment, in addition to scientific excellence, also means to demonstrate the likely commercial success of the particular research. The most challenging, but at the same time the most interesting mission was the foundation of a new company, securing the financial means and developing the drugs, which had been discovered, in the clinics.
Comparison of ASTM F2129 and ASTM F746 for Evaluating Crevice Corrosion
Authors: Sivan Shiril , Rahman Elnaz , Weaver Jason D. , Di Prima Matthew
Published: February 2019

Crevice corrosion is one of the major mechanisms that drives implant failure in orthopedic devices that have modular interfaces. Despite the prevalence of crevice corrosion in modular interfaces, very little is known with regards to the susceptibility of different material combinations to participate in crevice corrosion. In this study, we compare two electrochemical methods, ASTM F2129, Standard Test Method for Conducting Cyclic Potentiodynamic Polarization Measurements to Determine the Corrosion Susceptibility of Small Implant Devices, and a modified version of ASTM F746, Standard Test Method for Pitting or Crevice Corrosion of Metallic Surgical Implant Materials, in their ability to induce crevice corrosion. Four commonly used metals, 316 stainless steel, commercially pure titanium (Ti grade 2), Ti-6Al-4V (Ti grade 5), and cobalt–chromium–molybdenum per ASTM F1537, Standard Specification for Wrought Cobalt-28Chromium-6Molybdenum Alloys for Surgical Implants (UNS R31537, UNS R31538, and UNS R31539), were used to form crevices with a rod and washer combination. As a control, the metal rod materials were tested alone in the absence of crevices using ASTM F2129 and the modified ASTM F746 method. As another control to determine if crevices formed with polymeric materials would influence crevice corrosion susceptibility, experiments were also conducted with metal rods and polytetrafluorethylene washers. Our results revealed more visible corrosion after ASTM F2129 than ASTM F746. Additionally, ASTM F746 was found to falsely identify crevice corrosion per the critical pitting potential when visual inspection found no evidence of crevice corrosion. Hence, ASTM F2129 was found to be more effective overall at evaluating crevice corrosion compared to ASTM F746.
Stable Ischemic Heart Disease in the Older Adult
Authors: Vilaro Juan R.
Published: February 2019

Demographic trends worldwide show a progressively aging population and an increase in the overall medical complexity of elderly patients with cardiovascular disease. Elderly patients, especially those aged 75 or older, are relatively underrepresented in many of the clinical trials that helped create major society guidelines for evaluation and management of ischemic heart disease. Consequently, risk benefit ratios of a guideline-based approach in these patients are not well defined, especially with regards to pharmacotherapies and percutaneous coronary interventions. In this article we offer a practical approach to defining the elderly population, and provide an evidenced based review of the diagnostic and therapeutic implications of advanced age in the evaluation and management of ischemic heart disease.
Tumor-induced osteomalacia: experience from three tertiary care centers in India
Authors: Pal Rimesh , Bhadada Sanjay Kumar , Singhare Awesh , Bhansali Anil , Kamalanathan Sadishkumar , Chadha Manoj , Chauhan Phulrenu , Sood Ashwani , Dhiman Vandana , Sharma Dinesh Chandra , Saikia Uma Nahar , Chatterjee Debajyoti , Agashe Vikas
Published: February 2019

Tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) is a rare paraneoplastic syndrome characterized by recalcitrant hypophosphatemia. Reports from the Indian subcontinent are scarce, with most being single center experiences involving few patients. Herein, we conducted a retrospective analysis of 30 patients of TIO diagnosed at three tertiary care hospitals in India. Patients with persistent hypophosphatemia (despite correction of hypovitaminosis D), normocalcemia, elevated alkaline phosphatase, low TmP/GFR and elevated or ‘inappropriately normal’ FGF23 levels were labeled as having TIO. They were sequentially subjected to functional followed by anatomical imaging. Patients with a well-localized tumor underwent excision; others were put on phosphorous and calcitriol supplementation. The mean age at presentation was 39.6 years with female:male ratio of 3:2. Bone pain (83.3%) and proximal myopathy (70%) were the chief complaints; 40% of cases had fractures. The mean delay in diagnosis was 3.8 years. Tumors were clinically detectable in four patients (13.3%). The mean serum phosphate was 0.50 mmol/L with a median serum FGF23 level of 518 RU/mL. Somatostatin receptor-based scintigraphy was found to be superior to FDG-PET in tumor localization. Lower extremities were the most common site of the tumor (72%). Tumor size was positively correlated with serum FGF23 levels. Twenty-two patients underwent tumor resection and 16 of them had phosphaturic mesenchymal tumors. Surgical excision led to cure in 72.7% of patients whereas disease persistence and disease recurrence were seen in 18.2% and 9.1% of cases, respectively. At the last follow-up, serum phosphate in the surgically treated group was significantly higher than in the medically managed group.
Tricuspid regurgitation and the right ventricle in risk stratification and timing of intervention
Authors: Rana Bushra S. , Robinson Shaun , Francis Rajeevan , Toshner Mark , Swaans Martin J. , Agarwal Sharad , de Silva Ravi , Rana Amer A. , Nihoyannopoulos Petros
Published: February 2019

Tricuspid regurgitation natural history and treatment remains poorly understood. Right ventricular function is a key factor in determining prognosis, timing for intervention and longer-term outcome. The right ventricle is a thin walled chamber with a predominance of longitudinal fibres and a shared ventricular septum. In health, the low-pressure pulmonary circulation results in a highly compliant RV well equipped to respond to changes in preload but sensitive to even small alterations in afterload. In Part 1 of this article, discussion focuses on key principles of ventricular function assessment and the importance of right ventricular chamber size, volumes and ejection fraction, particularly in risk stratification in tricuspid regurgitation. Part 2 of this article provides an understanding of the causes of tricuspid regurgitation in the contemporary era, with emphasis on key patient groups and their management.
Indications for echocardiography of replacement heart valves: a joint statement from the British Heart Valve Society and British Society of Echocardiography
Authors: Chambers John B. , Garbi Madalina , Briffa Norman , Sharma Vishal , Steeds Richard P.
Published: February 2019

Echocardiography plays a vital role in the follow-up of patients with replacement heart valves. However, there is considerable variation in international guidelines regarding the recommended time points after implantation at which routine echocardiography should be performed. The purpose of routine echocardiography is to detect early structural valve deterioration in biological valves to improve the timing of redo interventions. However, the risk of valve deterioration depends on many valve-related factors (valve design and patient prosthesis mismatch) and patient-related factors (age, diabetes, systemic hypertension, renal dysfunction and smoking). In this statement, the British Heart Valve Society and the British Society of Echocardiography suggest practical guidance. A plan should be made soon after implantation, but this may need to be modified for individual patients and as circumstances change. It is important that patients are managed in a multidisciplinary valve clinic.
Survival in a bad neighborhood: pancreatic islets in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Norris Andrew W , Ode Katie Larson , Merjaneh Lina , Sanda Srinath , Yi Yaling , Sun Xingshen , Engelhardt John F , Hull Rebecca L
Published: February 2019

In cystic fibrosis (CF), ductal plugging and acinar loss result in rapid decline of exocrine pancreatic function. This destructive process results in remodeled islets, with only a modest reduction in insulin-producing β cells. However, β-cell function is profoundly impaired, with decreased insulin release and abnormal glucose tolerance being present even in infants with CF. Ultimately, roughly half the CF subjects develop diabetes (termed CF-related diabetes (CFRD)). Importantly, CFRD increases CF morbidity and mortality via worsening catabolism and pulmonary disease. Current accepted treatment options for CFRD are aimed at insulin replacement, thereby improving glycemia as well as preventing nutritional losses and lung decline. CFRD is a unique form of diabetes with a distinct pathophysiology that is as yet incompletely understood. Recent studies highlight emerging areas of interest. First, islet inflammation and lymphocyte infiltration are common even in young children with CF and may contribute to β-cell failure. Second, controversy exists in the literature regarding the presence/importance of β-cell intrinsic functions of CFTR and its direct role in modulating insulin release. Third, loss of the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) from pancreatic ductal epithelium, the predominant site of its synthesis, results in paracrine effects that impair insulin release. Finally, the degree of β-cell loss in CFRD does not appear sufficient to explain the deficit in insulin release. Thus, it may be possible to enhance the function of the remaining β-cells using strategies such as targeting islet inflammation or ductal CFTR deficiency to effectively treat or even prevent CFRD.
Serum and tissue pregnanes and pregnenes after dexamethasone treatment of cows in late gestation
Authors: Conley Alan J , Legacki Erin L , Corbin C Jo , Stanley Scott , Dahlen Carl R , Reynolds Lawrence P
Published: February 2019

Dexamethasone (DEX) initiates parturition by inducing progesterone withdrawal and affecting placental steroidogenesis, but the effects of DEX in fetal and maternal tissue steroid synthetic capacity remains poorly investigated. Blood was collected from cows at 270 days of gestation before DEX or saline (SAL) treatment, and blood and tissues were collected at slaughter 38 h later. Steroid concentrations were determined by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry to detect multiple steroids including 5α-reduced pregnane metabolites of progesterone. The activities of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3βHSD) in cotyledonary and luteal microsomes and mitochondria and cotyledonary microsomal 5α-reductase were assessed. Quantitative PCR was used to further assess transcripts encoding enzymes and factors supporting steroidogenesis in cotyledonary and luteal tissues. Serum progesterone, pregnenolone, 5α-dihydroprogesterone (DHP) and allopregnanolone (3αDHP) concentrations (all <5 ng/mL before treatment) decreased in cows after DEX. However, the 20α-hydroxylated metabolite of DHP, 20αDHP, was higher before treatment (≈100 ng/mL) than at slaughter but not affected by DEX. Serum, cotyledonary and luteal progesterone was lower in DEX- than SAL-treated cows. Progesterone was >100-fold higher in luteal than cotyledonary tissues, and serum and luteal concentrations were highly correlated in DEX-treated cows. 3βHSD activity was >5-fold higher in luteal than cotyledonary tissue, microsomes had more 3βHSD than mitochondria in luteal tissue but equal in cotyledonary sub-cellular fractions. DEX did not affect either luteal or cotyledonary 3βHSD activity but luteal steroidogenic enzyme transcripts were lower in DEX-treated cows. DEX induced functional luteal regression and progesterone withdrawal before any changes in placental pregnene/pregnane synthesis and/or metabolism were detectable.
Understanding the Loss of Maternal Care in Avian Brood Parasites Using Preoptic Area Transcriptome Comparisons in Brood Parasitic and Non-parasitic Blackbirds
Authors: Lynch Kathleen S , O’Connell Lauren A , Louder Matthew I M , Balakrishnan Christopher N , Fischer Eva K
Published: February 2019

Parental care is critical for offspring survival in many species. However, parental behaviors have been lost in roughly 1% of avian species known as the obligate brood parasites. To shed light on molecular and neurobiological mechanisms mediating brood parasitic behavior, we compared brain gene expression patterns between two brood parasitic species and one closely related non-parasitic Icterid (blackbird) species. Our analyses focused on gene expression changes specifically in the preoptic area (POA), a brain region known to play a critical role in parental behavior across vertebrates. Using comparative transcriptomic approaches, we identified gene expression patterns associated with brood parasitism. We evaluated three non-mutually exclusive alternatives for the evolution of brood parasitism: (1) retention of juvenile-like (neotenic) gene expression, (2) reduced expression of maternal care-related genes in the POA, and/or (3) increased expression of genes inhibiting maternal care. We find evidence for neotenic expression patterns in both species of parasitic cowbirds as compared to maternal, non-parasites. In addition, we observed differential expression in a number of genes with previously established roles in mediating maternal care. Together, these results provide the first insight into transcriptomic and genetic mechanisms underlying the loss of maternal behavior in avian brood parasites.
Automated Bus Fare Collection System Utilizing Reloadable Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Card
Authors: Socong Jo Anne O. , Anunciado Victor John L. , Namocatcat Liduvina L. , Fonghe Raiza S. , Miflores Marian Nicholee B. , Larican Jayson S. , Bernales Daniel , Corona Joshua A. , Ibarra Jocyrick R. , Soria Reymart C.
Published: February 2019

The automated Bus Fare Collection System is a combination of hardware and software technology and is used in fare collection. The reloadable RFID card used in the system is a small plastic card utilizing Radio Frequency Identification technology for storing information. The system addresses concern of violations and malpractices of conductors, and for the transparency and security of fare collections of the bus companies. This study aimed to develop an automated bus fare collection system for public transportation specifically for buses from Tagbilaran City to Ubay, and vice versa, route. It used a quantitative–qualitative paradigm for the research design. A survey was conducted to gather the required data. The collected data was then used for data interpretation. Discomfort, inconvenience, and inaccuracy were the three main issues and concerns of the commuters. By using RFID and GPS, the system collected, recorded, and monitored the fare collection with the help of the microcontroller Arduino Mega. It addressed the issues of the discomfort of manual collection of fares, inconvenience on the part of the conductors and passengers whenever there’s no change available, and the inaccuracy of fares; for those commuters of Bohol who did not receive the exact amount of change. Thus, this Automated Bus Fare Collection System is recommended.
Stress Experiences and Management Among University of Bohol CHMTN Junior Students
Authors: Gamutan Reinalda Josephine O. , Añora Ma. Chalmane L. , Jala Pauline Bernnadete P. , Mission Steven Jay V. , Muring Renevic D. , Pinar Kent Rian T.
Published: February 2019

The term ‘stress’ generally refers to the response of a person when he is in a situation that forces him to act, change or adjust in order for him to be in balance or maintain footing. Stress can make students sick and can affect their feelings, thoughts, personalities, and performance. Thus, it is essential to ensure that they have the necessary skills and appropriate attitude in dealing with various school activities and school-related stress. It is the researcher’s objective to identify the stressors that affect the lifestyle of the third-year students of the College of Hospitality Management, Tourism, and Nutrition (CHMTN), and the mechanisms they practice to manage stress. The quantitative method of research was used with the aid of questionnaires. The data gathered were statistically treated making use of weighted means, composite means, and analysis of variance. The respondents included 80 students (82.47%) from the three courses of the CHMTN namely BSHRM, BSTM, AND BSND. Results showed composite means of Sometimes Affected (SA), Sometimes Manifested (SM), and Sometimes Elicited (SE) for the three respective areas of School-related Stress Experiences; Sometimes Affected (SA) for Stress in relation to the student's studies, school performance, mood and relationship to family, friends, and community; and, Sometimes Applied (SA) for Stress Management Techniques. The outcome of the study served as a guide in constructing intervention measures.
Tourist Police Officers’ Compliance with Republic Act 9593
Authors: Lapez Theresil Marie C. , Jumawid Marven B. , Lajera Joseph C. , Maranga Adelfa C. , Molina Shirley O.
Published: February 2019

The main role of tourist police officers is to ensure that the implementation of RA 9593 also known as the Tourism Act of 2009 has been executed. The main purpose of this study is to assess the roles of tourist police officers in compliance with the said law, in Panglao, Bohol from the perspective of the stakeholders and the police officers themselves, in the year 2015. This will serve as the basis for the recommendation to improve their services. The study employed the descriptive correlational method utilizing a researcher-made questionnaire based on the functions and responsibilities as contained in Republic Act 9593 as a data gathering tool. The respondents were fifty (50) barangay officials, fifty (50) community residents, twenty (20) businessmen, and thirty (30) tourist police officers. Findings revealed that the majority of them were less compliant as perceived by the two groups of respondents. The problem mostly encountered by tourist police officers was the lack of cooperation on the part of resort owners. The study concluded that there is a need for tourist Police Officers and tourism-related stakeholders to be more compliant with Republic Act 9593.
Intelligent Energy Saving System using Real-Time Moving Object Detection and Microcontroller Unit
Authors: Apao Norma Jumawid , Anunciado Victor John
Published: February 2019

An intelligent Energy Saving System is a technologically advanced system that combines hardware and software to perceive and interact with the physical environment for saving electrical energy. Many times, students and teachers leave the classroom without switching off the lights and fans, thus electricity is wasted. This paper assesses the number of instances in a week the lights and fans are switched ON without room occupants in the 14 classrooms of the Achievers and Founders Buildings at the University of Bohol. Moreover, this paper gives importance to energy conservation inside the classroom by way of developing and recommending an automated energy-saving system that utilizes a real-time moving object detection approach and microcontroller unit to sense and control objects in the classroom focusing on the automatic control of lights and fans to reduce energy consumption. The study employed the developmental research method and applied a quantitative approach utilizing the direct and structured observation method in gathering the data. Frequency and ranking were the data treatment used for the data collected. The findings of this study revealed that there are at least 25 times in a week where the lights were left ON and at least 55 times in a week where the fans were left ON without anyone in the classroom. The proposed intelligent energy-saving system has favorable and consistent laboratory results wherein it was shown that the system can detect human presence and control the operation of the fans and lights. Through this system, the authors wish to contribute to minimizing electricity consumption and helping academic institutions save on their electricity bills.