bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Pressure Sensors Based on Laser-Manufactured Sintered Silicon Carbide
Authors: Salvatori Stefano , Ponticelli Gennaro Salvatore , Pettinato Sara , Genna Silvio , Guarino Stefano
Published: October 2020

In this work Sintered Silicon Carbide (S-SiC) samples have been used to fabricate fiber-optic-coupled pressure sensors. The sensor structure reproduces a low-finesse Fabry–Perot (FP) interferometer. Laser manufacturing of cylindrical S-SiC samples was performed to define the thin membrane geometry of sensors. FP cavity is defined by the end-face of a single mode fiber and the S-SiC diaphragm surface. Hence, pressure is evaluated by measuring the cavity depth by a dedicated optoelectronic system coupled to the single mode fiber. Exploiting the excellent properties of S-SiC, in terms of high hardness, low thermal expansion, and high thermal conductivity, realized devices have been characterized up to 20 MPa. Experimental results demonstrate that produced sensors exhibit a non-linearity around ±0.6%F.S. and a high input dynamics. The all-optic sensing system proposed in this work would represent a good alternative to conventional solutions based on piezoelectric effects, overcoming the drawback related to electromagnetic interference on the acquired signals. In addition, the mechanical characteristics of S-SiC allow the use of the sensor in both automotive and aerospace hostile environments as pressure monitors in combustion engines.
Bionic Design of a Potato Digging Shovel with Drag Reduction Based on the Discrete Element Method (DEM) in Clay Soil
Authors: Li Junwei , Jiang Xiaohu , Ma Yunhai , Tong Jin , Hu Bin
Published: October 2020

The resistance of ordinary potato digging shovels can increase dramatically when used in a clay soil because of the adhesion between the soil and shovel. In this paper, a new type of bionic potato digging shovel was designed to decrease adhesion. The bionic structural elements, i.e., scalelike units (S-U) were applied to the potato digging shovel with inspiration from pangolin scales. The discrete element method (DEM) considered cohesion was used to simulate the drag reduction performance in clayey soil conditions. An ordinary plane shovel (O-P-S) was used for comparison. Three indicators (total force, draft force and compressive force) were used to characterize the drag reduction performance. The effect of the design variables of the bionic structures (length [l] and height [h]) and the transversal and longitudinal arrangement spacing (S1 and S2) of the structures on the drag reduction performance were analyzed. The results showed that the drag reduction performance of the bionic shovels with suitable parameters was better than that of the O-P-S. The best bionic sample labeled as a bionic prototype had a 22.26% drag reduction rate during the soil bin test and a 14.19% drag reduction rate during the field test compared to the O-P-S.
Nanotechnology Solutions for Controlled Cytokine Delivery: An Applied Perspective
Authors: Gonçalves Anabela , Machado Raul , Gomes Andreia C. , Costa André da
Published: October 2020

Around 200 cytokines with roles in cell signaling have been identified and studied, with the vast majority belonging to the four-α-helix bundle family. These proteins exert their function by binding to specific receptors and are implicated in many diseases. The use of several cytokines as therapeutic targets has been approved by the FDA, however their rapid clearance in vivo still greatly limits their efficacy. Nano-based drug delivery systems have been widely applied in nanomedicine to develop safe, specific and controlled delivery techniques. Nevertheless, each nanomaterial has its own specifications and their suitability towards the biochemical and biophysical properties of the selected drug needs to be determined, weighing in the final choice of the ideal nano drug delivery system. Nanoparticles remain the most used vehicle for cytokine delivery, where polymeric carriers represent the vast majority of the studied systems. Liposomes and gold or silica nanoparticles are also explored and discussed in this review. Additionally, surface functionalization is of great importance to facilitate the attachment of a wide variety of molecules and modify features such as bioavailability. Since the monitoring of cytokine levels has an important role in early clinical diagnosis and for assessing therapeutic efficacy, nanotechnological advances are also valuable for nanosensor development.
A Synchronous Spin-Exchange Optically Pumped NMR-Gyroscope
Authors: Sorensen Susan S. , Thrasher Daniel A. , Walker Thad G.
Published: October 2020

Inertial navigation systems generally consist of timing, acceleration, and orientation measurement units. Although much progress has been made towards developing primary timing sources such as atomic clocks, acceleration and orientation measurement units often require calibration. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) gyroscopes, which rely on continuous measurement of the simultaneous Larmor precession of two co-located polarized noble gases, can be configured to have scale factors that depend to first order only on fundamental constants. The noble gases are polarized by spin-exchange collisions with co-located optically pumped alkali-metal atoms. The alkali-metal atoms are also used to detect the phase of precession of the polarized noble gas nuclei. Here we present a version of an NMR gyroscope designed to suppress systematic errors from the alkali-metal atoms. We demonstrate rotation rate angle random walk (ARW) sensitivity of 16μHz/Hz and bias instability of ∼800 nHz.
Targeted Therapy in Metastatic Bladder Cancer: Present Status and Future Directions
Authors: Scholtes Mathijs , Akbarzadeh Maryam , Zwarthoff Ellen , Boormans Joost , Mahmoudi Tokameh , Zuiverloon Tahlita
Published: October 2020

The recommended treatment for metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC) patients is platinum-based chemotherapy. Although initial response rates are moderate, the vast majority of patients experience a relapse due to chemoresistance and eventually succumb to their disease. Furthermore, platinum-based chemotherapy is toxic and approximately 30% of mUC patients are unfit for chemotherapy. Thus, there is a clear unmet need for novel, more efficacious treatment options in mUC with a safer toxicity profile. To propel the advancement of novel treatment options, we present a summary of key signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms that are known to be involved in bladder cancer tumorigenesis with a focus on promising candidate druggable molecular targets and innovative targeted therapies currently under clinical investigation. Targetable alterations were mainly described in fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) and epidermal growth factor receptor (ErbB) tyrosine kinase receptor (RTK) families, downstream pathways, and chromatin remodelers, which are major bladder cancer driver genes. Drugs targeting the FGFR family members are emerging as personalized treatment options for selected mUC patients with tumor-specific FGFR alterations. The pan-FGFR inhibitor, erdafitinib, was first-in-class to receive U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in 2019, while inhibitors of ErbB family members have shown less potential. Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are a class of targeted therapeutics that deliver cytotoxic drugs in close proximity to cancer cells by targeting RTKs or other transmembrane proteins. Enfortumab vedotin is the first-in-class ADC that was FDA approved for the treatment of locally advanced or mUC in 2019.
Joint Extraction of Multiple Relations and Entities from Building Code Clauses
Authors: Li Fulin , Song Yuanbin , Shan Yongwei
Published: October 2020

The extraction of regulatory information is a prerequisite for automated code compliance checking. Although a number of machine learning models have been explored for extracting computer-understandable engineering constraints from code clauses written in natural language, most are inadequate to address the complexity of the semantic relations between named entities. In particular, the existence of two or more overlapping relations involving the same entity greatly exacerbates the difficulty of information extraction. In this paper, a joint extraction model is proposed to extract the relations among entities in the form of triplets. In the proposed model, a hybrid deep learning algorithm combined with a decomposition strategy is applied. First, all candidate subject entities are identified, and then, the associated object entities and predicate relations are simultaneously detected. In this way, multiple relations, especially overlapping relations, can be extracted. Furthermore, nonrelated pairs are excluded through the judicious recognition of subject entities. Moreover, a collection of domain-specific entity and relation types is investigated for model implementation. The experimental results indicate that the proposed model is promising for extracting multiple relations and entities from building codes.
Microbial Community and Atrazine-Degrading Genetic Potential in Deep Zones of a Hypersaline Lake-Aquifer System
Authors: Espín Yolanda , Aranzulla Giuliana , Álvarez-Ortí Manuel , Gómez-Alday Juan José
Published: October 2020

The chemical composition of groundwater and related surface water ecosystems can be modified by intensive agricultural activities. This is the case of the Natural Reserve of Pétrola saline lake (Albacete, SE Spain), which constitutes the discharge area of an unconfined aquifer. The extended use of fertilizers and pesticides poses a threat to ecosystem sustainability. One of the most applied herbicides worldwide has been atrazine. Despite being prohibited in Spain since 2007 by European regulations, atrazine can still be detected due to its high persistence in the environment. Atrazine degradation pathways are mediated by biological processes performed by microorganisms with adapted metabolic mechanisms that make in situ bioremediation possible. To evaluate the presence of such microorganisms in the unconfined aquifer, groundwater was collected from a flowing 37.9 m deep piezometer. DNA was extracted, and the bacterial 16S rRNA gene was amplified and cloned. Later, 93 clones were sequenced, providing the first molecular assessment of bacterial community structure in the deep zones of the aquifer. Some of these bacteria have been previously described to be involved in atrazine degradation. In addition, 14 bacteria were isolated from the groundwater samples and identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. DNA from these bacteria was subjected to PCR assays with primers designed for the genes involved in the atrazine degradation pathway. Positive results in the amplification were found in at least three of these bacteria (Arthrobacter sp., Nocardioides sp. and Pseudomonas sp.). The atrazine-degrading genetic potential was shown to be dependent on the trzN and atzA,B,C gene combination. These results suggest for the first time the adaptation of the bacterial population present in deep aquifer zones to atrazine exposure, even after more than 15 years of its ban in Spain. In addition, this study provides the baseline data about the bacterial communities found in deep aquifer zones from the hypersaline lake-aquifer system.
Open-Loop Dynamic Modeling of Low-Budget Batteries with Low-Power Loads
Authors: Masoudinejad Mojtaba
Published: October 2020

Understanding dynamic behavior of a battery and the possibility of simulating it is necessary during design of IoT systems. This plays a critical role, especially for industrial devices with low-power demands planned for long lasting operation. While cost limitation mostly leads to use of the low-budget batteries with fast degradation, a model of these batteries supplying low-power loads is provided here. The overall model is in open-loop form because no access to the terminal measurements is available during the design phase. The identification process of the relation between the state of charge and related electromotive force as a key element of the model is discussed. Moreover, guidelines are suggested for identification of this relation. Furthermore, SoC estimation based on the Coulomb counting is modified to include a dynamic inter-cycle aging factor. This factor enables replication of the degradation within a single cycle. In spite of simplicity of this concept, it is able to reduce the model’s estimation error evaluated with two different types of loads. The overall model provides promising results with relative errors less than 0.2%.
Differentially Expressed Proteins in Intra Synovial Compared to Extra Synovial Flexor Tendon Grafts in a Rabbit Tendon Transplantation Model
Authors: Farnebo Simon , Wiig Monica , Holm Björn , Ghafouri Bijar
Published: October 2020

Uncomplicated healing of grafts for tendon reconstruction remains an unsolved problem in hand surgery. Results are limited by adhesion formation and decreased strength properties, especially within the tight fibro-osseous sheath of the digits. This is especially problematic when an extra synovial tendon graft is used to replace an intra synovial flexor tendon. Compositional differences are likely to play an important role in these processes. The aim of this study was, therefore, to compare protein expression in pair-matched intra synovial tendon grafts with extra synovial tendon grafts, using a rabbit tendon injury model. We hypothesized that there would be significant differences in proteins critical for response to tensile loading and adhesion formation between the two groups. Using mass spectrometry and multivariate statistical data analysis, we found tissue-specific differences in 22 proteins, where 7 explained 93% (R2) of the variation, with a prediction of 81% (Q2). Among the highest discriminating proteins were Galectin, Histone H2A, and Periostin, which were found in a substantially larger amount in the extra synovial tendons compared to the intra synovial tendons. These findings may contribute to improved understanding of the differences in outcome seen after tendon reconstruction using tendon grafts with intra synovial and extra synovial grafts.
Assessment of the Effect of Wind Load on the Load Capacity of a Single-Layer Bar Dome
Authors: Opatowicz Dominika , Radoń Urszula , Zabojszcza Paweł
Published: October 2020

The main purpose of the paper was the assessment of the effect of wind load on the load capacity of a single-layer bar dome. Additionally, which numerical method is appropriate for low-rise single-layer bar domes was checked. In order to explain the effect of the height-to-span ratio on the selection of the appropriate calculation model and method of analysis of the bar dome, an example of the known von Mises truss was proposed. Two cases of von Mises truss differing in the height-to-span ratio were considered. For the shallow structure, a significant change in the value of the stiffness matrix determinant and the current stiffness parameter was observed. A similar tendency in the behavior of the structure can be observed on fragments of larger structures, including shallow single-layer steel domes. These problems are described on the basis of the dome, which is located on top of the building housing the restaurant. This structure is subjected to large displacement gradients and the actual configuration is taken into account in analysis. The analysis showed that there is a change in stiffness for these structures, and, therefore, that such structures should be designed according to geometric nonlinear analysis (GNA).
How Do We Monitor Oxygenation during the Management of PPHN? Alveolar, Arterial, Mixed Venous Oxygen Tension or Peripheral Saturation?
Authors: Chandrasekharan Praveen , Rawat Munmun , Lakshminrusimha Satyan
Published: October 2020

Oxygen is a pulmonary vasodilator and plays an important role in mediating circulatory transition from fetal to postnatal period. Oxygen tension (PO2) in the alveolus (PAO2) and pulmonary artery (PaO2) are the main factors that influence hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV). Inability to achieve adequate pulmonary vasodilation at birth leads to persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). Supplemental oxygen therapy is the mainstay of PPHN management. However, optimal monitoring and targeting of oxygenation to achieve low pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) and optimizing oxygen delivery to vital organs remains unknown. Noninvasive pulse oximetry measures peripheral saturations (SpO2) and a target range of 91–95% are recommended during acute PPHN management. However, for a given SpO2, there is wide variability in arterial PaO2, especially with variations in hemoglobin type (HbF or HbA due to transfusions), pH and body temperature. This review evaluates the role of alveolar, preductal, postductal, mixed venous PO2, and SpO2 in the management of PPHN. Translational and clinical studies suggest maintaining a PaO2 of 50–80 mmHg decreases PVR and augments pulmonary vasodilator management. Nevertheless, there are no randomized clinical trials evaluating outcomes in PPHN targeting SpO2 or PO2. Also, most critically ill patients have umbilical arterial catheters and postductal PaO2 may not be an accurate assessment of oxygen delivery to vital organs or factors influencing HPV. The mixed venous oxygen tension from umbilical venous catheter blood gas may assess pulmonary arterial PO2 and potentially predict HPV. It is crucial to conduct randomized controlled studies with different PO2/SpO2 target ranges for the management of PPHN and compare outcomes.
Preliminary Study on the Echo-Assisted Intersphincteric Autologous Microfragmented Adipose Tissue Injection to Control Fecal Incontinence in Children Operated for Anorectal Malformations
Authors: Parente Giovanni , Pinto Valentina , Di Salvo Neil , D’Antonio Simone , Libri Michele , Gargano Tommaso , Catania Vincenzo Davide , Ruggeri Giovanni , Lima Mario
Published: October 2020

Aim of the study: To assess the efficacy of a novel technique (echo-assisted intersphincteric autologous microfragmented adipose tissue injection, also called “anal-lipofilling”) in the management of non-responsive fecal incontinence in children born with anorectal malformations (ARMs). Methods: Following ethical committee approval (CHPED-MAR-18-02), anal-lipofilling was proposed to patients with fecal incontinence not responsive to medications or bowel management (bowel enema and/or transanal irrigation automatic systems), then a prospective study was conducted. Anal-lipofilling consisted of three phases: lipoaspiration from the abdominal wall, processing of the lipoaspirate with a Lipogems system and intersphincteric injection of the processed fat tissue via endosonographic assistance. A questionnaire based on Krickenbeck’s scale (KS) was administered to the patients to evaluate the clinical outcome. Main Results: Four male patients (three recto-urethral fistula, and one recto-perineal fistula) underwent the anal-lipofilling procedure at a mean age of 13.0 ± 4.2 yrs. There were no complications during or after the procedure. From an initial assessment of the patients there was an improvement in the bowel function at a median follow up of 6 months, with better scores at KS (100% Soiling grade three pre-treatment vs. 75% grade one post-treatment). Conclusions: Even if our Study is preliminary, echo-assisted anal-lipofilling could be considered as a feasible and safe alternative technique in the management of the fecal incontinence in non-responding ARMs patients. More studies are still necessary to support the validity of the implant of autologous adipose tissue in the anal sphincter as a therapy for fecal incontinence in children born with ARMs.
Methodological Study to Investigate the Potential of Ultrasound-Based Elastography and Texture as Biomarkers to Monitor Liver Tumors
Authors: Moalla Salma , Girot Charly , Franchi-Abella Stéphanie , Ammari Samy , Balleyguier Corinne , Lassau Nathalie , Pitre-Champagnat Stéphanie
Published: October 2020

Aims and objectives: In order to evaluate the responses of hepatic lesions to treatment in terms of tissue stiffness and heterogeneity, this work investigated the robustness of 2D shear-wave elastography (2D SWE) stiffness measurements and texture analyses in vitro and in vivo in terms of repeatability and variability. Methods and materials: A multioperator (n = 5) study was performed with an ultrasonic elastography device on two sets of phantoms. For the first set of phantoms, 10 measurements for each of the eight inclusions were performed by each observer, whereas the second set of phantoms was used to evaluate the influence of depth on the stiffness measurements. Variability of the stiffness measurements was evaluated in vivo on 10 healthy livers, with 10 measurements for each hepatic segment. Texture analyses were performed in B-mode, obtaining elastography images for every hepatic segment. Results: Stiffness measurements were influenced by depth, particularly when exceeding 7 cm. In vivo measurements demonstrated that measurements of segments I, VII, and VIII were less reliable, mainly due to their deeper locations. The protocols used were more flexible in terms of acquisition setup and probe placement than those currently used with Fibroscan®. For texture analysis on the B-mode images, 12 features showed low variability regardless of the evaluated hepatic segment. On elastogram, only two features showed low variability, but not in every segment. Conclusion: We demonstrated the robustness of two methodologies for the quantification of liver stiffness and heterogeneity. Further clinical studies should evaluate whether these techniques can assess tumor responses to treatment and, therefore, have the potential to be used as imaging biomarkers.
Communication, Trust and Dental Anxiety: A Person-Centred Approach for Dental Attendance Behaviours
Authors: Yuan Siyang , Freeman Ruth , Hill Kirsty , Newton Tim , Humphris Gerry
Published: October 2020

Effective communication forges the dentist-patient treatment alliance and is thus essential for providing person-centred care. Social rank theory suggests that shame, trust, communication and anxiety are linked together, they are moderated by socio-economic position. The study is aimed to propose and test an explanatory model to predict dental attendance behaviours using person-centred and socio-economic position factors. A secondary data analysis was conducted on a cross-sectional representative survey of a two-stage cluster sample of adults including England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Data were drawn from structured interview. Path analysis of proposed model was calculated following measurement development and confirmation of reliable constructs. The findings show model fit was good. Dental anxiety was predicted negatively by patient’s trust and positively by reported dentist communication. Patient’s shame was positively associated with dental anxiety, whereas self-reported dental attendance was negatively associated with dental anxiety. Both patient’s trust and dentist’s communication effects were moderated by social class. Manual classes were most sensitive to the reported dentist’s communications. Some evidence for the proposed model was found. The relationships reflected in the model were illuminated further when social class was introduced as moderator and indicated dentists should attend to communication processes carefully across different categories of patients.
10 Clock-Periods Pipelined Implementation of AES-128 Encryption-Decryption Algorithm up to 28 Gbit/s Real Throughput by Xilinx Zynq UltraScale+ MPSoC ZCU102 Platform
Authors: Visconti Paolo , Capoccia Stefano , Venere Eugenio , Velázquez Ramiro , Fazio Roberto de
Published: October 2020

The security of communication and computer systems is an increasingly important issue, nowadays pervading all areas of human activity (e.g., credit cards, website encryption, medical data, etc.). Furthermore, the development of high-speed and light-weight implementations of the encryption algorithms is fundamental to improve and widespread their application in low-cost, low-power and portable systems. In this scientific article, a high-speed implementation of the AES-128 algorithm is reported, developed for a short-range and high-frequency communication system, called Wireless Connector; a Xilinx ZCU102 Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) platform represents the core of this communication system since manages all the base-band operations, including the encryption/decryption of the data packets. Specifically, a pipelined implementation of the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm has been developed, allowing simultaneous processing of distinct rounds on multiple successive plaintext packets for each clock period and thus obtaining higher data throughput. The proposed encryption system supports 220 MHz maximum operating frequency, ensuring encryption and decryption times both equal to only 10 clock periods. Thanks to the pipelined approach and optimized solutions for the Substitute Bytes operation, the proposed implementation can process and provide the encrypted packets each clock period, thus obtaining a maximum data throughput higher than 28 Gbit/s. Also, the simulation results demonstrate that the proposed architecture is very efficient in using hardware resources, requiring only 1631 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) for the encryption block and 3464 CLBs for the decryption one.
Network-Cognitive Traffic Control: A Fluidity-Aware On-Chip Communication
Authors: Tsai Wen-Chung , Chen Sao-Jie , Hu Yu-Hen , Chiang Mao-Lun
Published: October 2020

A novel network-on-chip (NoC) integrated congestion control and flow control scheme, called Network-Cognitive Traffic Control (NCogn.TC), is proposed. This scheme is cognizant of the fluidity levels in on-chip router buffers and it uses this measurement to prioritize the forwarding of flits in the buffers. This preferential forwarding policy is based on the observation that flits with higher levels of fluidity are likely to arrive at their destinations faster, because they may require fewer routing steps. By giving higher priority to forward flits in high-fluidity buffers, scarce buffer resources may be freed-up sooner in order to relieve on-going traffic congestion. In this work, a buffer cognition monitor is developed to rapidly estimate the buffer fluidity level. An integrated congestion control and flow control algorithm is proposed based on the estimated buffer fluidity level. Tested with both synthetic traffic patterns as well as industry benchmark traffic patterns, significant performance enhancement has been observed when the proposed Network-Cognitive Traffic Control is compared against conventional traffic control algorithms that only monitor the buffer fill level.
The Influence of Different Unsteady Incident Flow Environments on Drag Measurements in an Open Jet Wind Tunnel
Authors: Fei Xiao , Jessing Christoph , Kuthada Timo , Wiedemann Jochen , Wagner Andreas
Published: October 2020

Aerodynamic development for road vehicles is usually carried out in a uniform steady-state flow environment, either in the wind tunnel or in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. However, out on the road, the vehicle experiences unsteady flow with fluctuating angles of incidence β, caused by natural wind, roadside obstacles, or traffic. In order to simulate such flow fields, the Forschungsinstitut für Kraftfahrwesen und Fahrzeugmotoren Stuttgart (FKFS) swing® system installed in the quarter scale model wind tunnel can create a variety of time-resolved signals with variable β. The static pressure gradient in the empty test section, as well as cD values of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) body and the DrivAer model, have been measured under these transient conditions. The cD measurements have been corrected using the Two-Measurement Correction method in order to decouple the influence of the unsteady flow from that of the static pressure gradient. The investigation has determined that the static pressure gradient in the empty test section varies greatly with different excitation signals. Thus, it is imperative to apply a cD correction for unsteady wind tunnel measurements. The corrected cD values show that a higher signal amplitude, as in, signals with large β, lead to higher drag forces. The influence of the signal frequency on drag values varies depending on the vehicle geometry and needs to be investigated further in the future.
Comparison of Serum Pharmacodynamic Biomarkers in Prednisone-Versus Deflazacort-Treated Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Boys
Authors: Tawalbeh Shefa , Samsel Alison , Gordish-Dressman Heather , Hathout Yetrib , CINRG-DNHS Investigators  , Dang Utkarsh J.
Published: October 2020

Prednisone (Pred) and Deflazacort (Dfz) are commonly used glucocorticoids (GCs) for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) treatment and management. While GCs are known to delay the loss of ambulation and motor abilities, chronic use can result in onerous side effects, e.g., weight gain, growth stunting, loss of bone density, etc. Here, we use the CINRG Duchenne natural history study to gain insight into comparative safety of Pred versus Dfz treatment through GC-responsive pharmacodynamic (PD) biomarkers. Longitudinal trajectories of SOMAscan® protein data obtained on serum of DMD boys aged 4 to 10 (Pred: n = 7; Dfz: n = 8) were analyzed after accounting for age and time on treatment. Out of the pre-specified biomarkers, seventeen candidate proteins were differentially altered between the two drugs (p < 0.05). These include IGFBP-2 and AGER associated with diabetes complications, and MMP-3 associated with extracellular remodeling. As a follow-up, IGFBP-2, MMP-3, and IGF-I were quantified with an ELISA using a larger sample size of DMD biosamples (Dfz: n = 17, Pred: n = 12; up to 76 sera samples) over a longer treatment duration. MMP-3 and IGFBP-2 validated the SOMAscan® signal, however, IGF-I did not. This study identified GC-responsive biomarkers, some associated with safety, that highlight differential PD response between Dfz and Pred.
The Influence of Gender and Year of Study on Stress Levels and Coping Strategies among Polish Dental
Authors: Mocny-Pachońska Katarzyna , Trzcionka Agata , Doniec Rafał J. , Sieciński Szymon , Tanasiewicz Marta
Published: October 2020

Background and objectives: Stress is a common term used to describe various adverse psychological conditions. Students in the dentistry field face many negative psychological outcomes. The core factors for stress among dental students are related to their training course and social contacts with peers. This research aimed to assess the stress of dental students depending on their gender and study year. Materials and methods: We used the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and Mini-COPE questionnaire. The surveys were conducted among 446 dental students (320 women and 126 men) at the Faculty of Medical Sciences of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice. Results: For the second-year and fifth-year students, the differences in scores were statistically significant, while in both cases, men had significantly lower values on the analysed scale. The results of the Kruskal-Wallis test indicated significantly lower values on the PSS-10 scale for the third-year and fourth-year students than in first-year students. The performed statistical analysis of the data obtained from the Mini-COPE questionnaire showed significant differences between men and women in individual years of study. In the first year, women chose more often the strategies related to turning to religion (p = 0.007), seeking emotional support (p = 0.046), seeking instrumental support (p = 0.045) and dealing with something else (p = 0.029) in coping with stress than men. Conclusions: The highest level of stress was found among first-year dental students. Moreover, women were characterised with higher stress levels than men. Men more often use psychoactive substances and resort to a sense of humour to cope with stress. On the other hand, women turn to religion, seek instrumental and emotional support.
Non-taurine responsive dilated cardiomyopathy in 2 cats
Authors: SEVİM Kadir , ÇOLAKOĞLU Ekrem Çağatay
Published: October 2020

Feline dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a rare disease characterized by myocardial failure and systolic dysfunction. Taurine deficiency is the most important cause of DCM phenotype in cats. A 2 year-old Scottish fold and a 8 month-old domestic shorthair cat were referred to hospital with anorexia, weakness and increased respiratory effort. Based on electrocardiographic, radiographic and echocardiographic findings, the both cases were diagnosed with DCM. The cases were managed with pimobendan, furosemide, acetylsalicylic acid and taurine. The cats were more active and clinically healthy during 15 days follow-up. No remarkable changes were observed in follow up echocardiographies. The cases presented here reflect the clinical signs, cardiological examination findings, diagnosis and management of idiopathic DCMin 2 cats.
Os DESAFIOS E BENEFÍCIOS DA ISO 9001:2015 NA ESCOLA SUPERIOR DA MAGISTRATURA TOCANTINENSE (ESMAT)
Authors: Augusto Gonçalves Ivan , Fernandes Barboza Vinícius , Henrique Gomes Delson
Published: October 2020

O ambiente organizacional muda diariamente. Os desafios surgem a partir de fatores externos e internos, impactando diretamente os resultados obtidos. Com o advento da internet e das redes sociais, uma miríade de informações é projetada sobre o gestor que, sem a capacidade de analisar todos os dados, pode tomar decisões que trarão dissabores para a própria organização. Embora o acesso à informação tenha crescido exponencialmente, o conhecimento aplicado ainda carece de ferramentas de gestão que minimizem os riscos associados à má gestão. Nesse sentido, a ISO 9001, a mais famosa metodologia de gestão conhecida, destaca-se como principal mecanismo de apoio ao planejamento e gestão das organizações. Fundamentada no ciclo de Deming ou ciclo de melhoria contínua, a ISO 9001 se caracteriza como uma ferramenta de gestão estruturada no planejamento (P), execução (D), monitoramento (C) e correção (A) de ações que objetivam a implementação eficaz  da estratégia proposta por uma organização. Embora tenha aplicação prática e traga benefícios tangíveis em qualquer tipo de empresa (públicas e privadas), a metodologia tem desafios a serem superados. O presente artigo apresenta a sistemática de implantação do sistema de gestão da qualidade na Escola Superior da Magistratura Tocantinense (ESMAT), baseado na norma ABNT NBR ISO 9001:2015 – Sistema de Gestão da Qualidade. A implantação desse modelo de gestão em uma instituição pública é pioneira no segmento, não encontrando estudos de casos anteriores e resultados estatísticos que forneçam dados para uma análise comparativa. O presente artigo servirá, portanto, como case introdutório da aplicação prática dos princípios da qualidade no ambiente jurídico do estado do Tocantins.
CELERIDADE NO PODER JUDICIÁRIO E A EFICÁCIA
Authors: Cláudia Araújo da Silva Fernanda , Da Silveira Nogueira Josélia
Published: October 2020

O objetivo do presente estudo é abordar os principais conceitos que envolvem as denominações: eficiência e eficácia, e correlacionar os termos com a busca pela celeridade no Poder Judiciário. Para alcançar os resultados, foi utilizado o meio bibliográfico de consulta com a pesquisa, de forma que se verificou que o Poder Judiciário brasileiro tem apresentado resultados que atendem a uma demanda relacionada a prazos e números, enquanto questões ligadas à qualidade na gestão do Judiciário são renegadas a segundo plano.
AS VANTAGENS ECONÔMICAS E A MINIMIZAÇÃO DOS CUSTOS DE RESPONSABILIDADE E DE TRANSAÇÃO NA IMPLANTAÇÃO DE POLÍTICAS DE COMPLIANCE NAS EMPRESAS
Authors: Filipe Poletto Cardoso Matheus
Published: October 2020

Pretende-se, por intermédio deste estudo, analisar e avaliar as vantagens econômicas e a diminuição dos custos de transação na aplicação de políticas de compliance nas pessoas jurídicas de direito privado. A principal forma de análise será aquela proposta por Ronald Coase em seus artigos The Problem of Social Cost e The Nature of the Firm, entre outros consagrados autores da Escola de Chicago. Sinalar-se-ão as finalidades e os meios para a implantação dessa política nas empresas, bem como o lucro e o custo advindos dessa aplicação. Afinal, a aplicação das diretrizes formuladas pela Lei Anticorrupção Empresarial, sancionada pelo governo brasileiro, em 2013, por exemplo, é um incentivador de criação de políticas internas para que a firma, como um todo, aja de forma ética e além dos ditames da lei. Será proposta, também, a importância do compliance officer como um setor consultivo e que trará lucro às empresas se comparado com a litigiosidade dos eventuais processos judiciais aos quais as companhias podem sofrer. Conclui-se, com base em prescrições da AED, como o ótimo Kaldor-Hicks e a Fórmula de Hand, que os custos despendidos em compliance possuem um retorno marginal maior do que o custo.
Revolución en el desierto: Una reevaluación de la Edad del Bronce Tardío y el Hierro Temprano en el noroeste de Arabia y el sur del Levante
Authors: Tebes Juan Manuel
Published: October 2020

Los cambios sociales que se produjeron en el noroeste de Arabia y en el sur del Levante árido entre mediados del segundo y principios del primer milenio a.n.e. fueron tan profundos que pueden caracterizarse, tomando prestada la terminología de Steven Rosen, como una “revolución en el desierto”. Este artículo explorará las evidencias arqueológicas y epigráficas de la Edad del Bronce Tardío y de la Edad del Hierro Temprano en el Hejaz, el Negev, el noreste del Sinaí y el sur de Jordania. Este período de ca. 500 años vio grandes transformaciones sociales, económicas y políticas en las sociedades locales: el desarrollo de sociedades jerárquicas no estatales; la emergencia del urbanismo de oasis en el noroeste de Arabia y de sitios industriales en Edom; la aparición de una tecnología metalúrgica de avanzada en el Valle de Arabá; la construcción de las primeras obras hidráulicas en el norte de Arabia; las evidencias más antiguas de agricultura beduina en el Negev; la domesticación del dromedario y su utilización como animal de carga; la aparición de redes de comercio de larga distancia; la aparición y expansión de tradiciones de cerámica industrial autóctona; y la materialización de un nuevo mundo religioso con deidades locales y tribales. Ya no se puede considerar que las confederaciones y estados tribales del norte de Arabia y del sur de Levante del primer milenio a.n.e. emergieron de un vacío, sino que fueron el resultado de transformaciones de largo plazo que habían comenzado siglos antes.
TO THE ANALYSIS OF THE CARBON STATE OF VORONEZH UPLAND OAK FOREST
Authors: Odnoralov Gennady , Golyadkina Inna , Tikhonova Elena
Published: October 2020

to date, the main parameters for assessing the state of the forest are the average age, height, diameter, and completeness of the main forest-forming rocks, expressed in meters, fractions of a meter, or cubic meters. At the same time, on the same test areas, other measurement measures are used for soil research: milligrams, grams, percentages, moles, etc. Naturally, it is impossible to combine these indicators when characterizing the forest environment. To do this, first of all, you should choose a single system of measures, parameters and indicators that combine the biogenic and lithogenic parts of the landscape. Knowing that their interaction is based on energy and mass exchange, we suggest using measures common to both subsystems. The initial indicators for quantifying the oxygen-producing and carbon-depositing functions, as well as the energy accumulated in the primary products of forest ecosystems, are the elements of biological productivity expressed in weight units.

The object of research – Voronezh upland oak forest, with a total area of more than 7 thousand hectares, is the Central organizing element of the entire urban ecosystem of Voronezh. The tree stand is represented by coniferous crops along the left Bank of the floodplain terraces, as well as broad-leaved forest plantations spread on the riverine slopes of the watershed.
TO THE CALCULATION OF THE ELASTIC PRESSURE ELEMENTS OF THE FUSES OF THE WORKING BODIES OF A MILLING TILLAGE MACHINE
Authors: Scheblykin Pavel
Published: October 2020

The reliable operation of tillage forestry cutters largely depends on the perfection of their means of protection against overloads. The safety devices used to protect against overloading of tillage mills by torque do not fully provide adequate protection of working bodies and the drive against arising overloads, since they have significant dynamic loads, low accuracy of operation, complicate the design of the machine, and lead to premature failure of individual its parts and assemblies increase the cost and repair costs. The main criterion for the design of high-quality fuses in design that protect the drive units of the machine in terms of torque is the introduction of such elements into their design that would allow several functions to be performed at once.

Thus, this article presents recommendations that will allow the calculation of the main characteristics of the friction type fuses and their elements located in close proximity to the working body of the rotary forestry machine or built into them, having in their design elastic pressing elements of a flat cylindrical shape.
MODERN FURNITURE MARKET TRENDS 2019
Authors: Efimova Tatyana , Ishchenko Tatyana , Pikalov L.
Published: October 2020

Furniture changes occur infrequently, while at the present time, people are more and more carefully approaching the selection of furniture. They want to see in their house not only practical, high-quality furniture, but also furniture made according to the latest fashion trends in modern design. Therefore, the goal of our research was the modern trends of the furniture market in 2019. The main fashion trends in styles, patterns, colors, materials, accessories, forms of furniture are considered. Fashion is cyclical and by the end of the 90s it became a gigantic industry. Color trends from fashion catwalks affect interior design, becoming relevant for furniture and decoration in the current and future season. The main trends in interior design are set by the largest world exhibitions ISaloni, Maison & Objet, IMM Cologne, Stockholm Furniture & Light Fair. It is at such large venues that you can see new technologies, ideas and solutions that will play a major role in the interior in the near future. Modern trends in the interior in 2019 indicate that a successful and fashionable design of the living space is not just a beautiful, cozy and stylish house, but also an expression of the individuality of the owner of the house.
INFORMATION AND EDUCATIONAL AUTHORIZED ENVIRONMENT FOR THE STUDY OF THE DISCIPLINE
Authors: Kuharenko S. , Dzyubenko O. , Klyuev D.
Published: October 2020

The Relevance of the study is determined by the need to reduce the intensity of the educational process of cadets of Junior courses, due, in particular, the large volume of the discipline "Theoretical mechanics" and the lack of experience of studying in a military University.
METHODOLOGICAL APPROACHES TO THE FORMATION OF INNOVATIVE AND INVESTMENT PROJECTS IN THE FOREST SECTOR
Authors: Bezrukova Tatyana , Malanyak S.
Published: October 2020

The modern forest complex of the Russian Federation needs systemic transformations aimed at transforming its organizational and managerial foundations and production and technological models into an innovative format. The relevance of this target setting is confirmed by the fact that our country has a very high potential for the development of the forest complex (1/4 of all wood reserves are concentrated in the country), but in the world market our products are sold mainly in the form of raw materials, that is, with a very low added value. Modern scientific approaches, as well as axiomatic and hypothetical methods of cognition were applied in the work. In the course of the study, the main features of the innovative development of the domestic forest complex were considered, the main factors that prevent the formation of an effective innovation environment (exo - and endo-level) were identified. The state measures on activation of innovative potential and development of branch productions are worked out, the assessment of the key problems characteristic for a domestic forest complex and their reasons is carried out. Also, direct and indirect criteria of determination (cause-and-effect relations) are established between the latter, a scheme-model of formation of the innovative environment of the forest complex is developed. The paper proposes promising directions of innovative transformation of the forest complex of the Russian Federation taking into account its features / conditions of operation, risk factors and uncertainty, the existing potential and reserves, key issues and shortcomings in terms of organization, management and production.
SCAN DETACHED TREES USING 3D SENSE AND THEIR RECONSTRUCTION IN CAD
Authors: Bukhtoyarov Leonid , Beznosko YA. , Bazula I.
Published: October 2020

Harvesters are state-of-the-art high-performance forestry machines that carry out a series of continuous operations, such as felling, pruning, and so on. During the alignment process of the harvester head to capture the trunk, the operator requires a large number of observations, judgments and multiple operations, which leads to loss of time and fuel. In order to increase operational efficiency and reduce operating costs, before cutting a tree, it is advisable to obtain a scan in the form of a point cloud. We suggest using a 3D Sense laser scanner for this, which is a non-contact measuring system.

The distance between the scanner and the tree is determined by the travel time of the laser light pulse: a pulsed laser beam is emitted and reflected if it encounters an object. Based on these measurements, it is possible to optimize tree felling and increase the automation of harvesters, which will lead to increased efficiency in the use of various resources However, the natural environment poses problems for any computer read task. This article presents the results of scanning single-standing trees surrounded by foliage and branches.
IMPROVEMENT OF AUTOMATION SYSTEMS OF THE PROCESS BONDING LUMBER FOR THE LENGTH
Authors: Gribanov A.
Published: October 2020

Resource conservation and reuse of wood processing waste in a modern market economy is of paramount importance. The technologies and technical equipment considered in the article are devoted to the process of splicing of short wood sections of lumber. The above stages of processing wood waste require optimally designed cutting cards for sawing raw materials in order to obtain the greatest yield of edged sawn timber. The studies of the method of manual cutting of wood defects considered in the article make it possible to determine the time spent on processing furniture blanks sent for subsequent splicing. Significant time is spent on inspection of lumber manually from four sides. The proposed optical method of wood flaw detection allows you to take into account the defects of the workpieces on four sides with the subsequent process of cutting them on the milling unit and automatic gluing along the length. It is proposed to use illuminated cameras, which are installed on four sides of the conveyor, as scanning elements. Photographs from the detectors are combined into a single three-dimensional map of the workpiece using special software and then transmitted in the form of control actions on the end face of the defect cutting line. Waste is automatically removed to the hopper by special pushing machines.