bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linguagem e pensamento: um enfoque filosófico sobre o planejamento estratégico chinês
Authors: Pereira Maurício Fernandes , Reale Ricardo , Almeida Marinho Isnard Ribeiro de
Published: July 2016

O artigo busca fazer uma leitura daquilo que seria o planejamento estratégico segundo a lógica da ciência da administração chinsa de hoje, que mescla elementos tradicionais com a influência da administração científica. Assim, o artigo trata da linguagem ideogramática enquanto elemento influenciador na formação do pensamento e consequentemente do modeo de planejamento estratégico vigente. A linguagem de ideogramas não está baseada em fonemas, mas em imagens. Com isso, uma lógica diferente da ocidental é estabelecida, quando consideramos que linguagem e pensamento andam juntos. De fato, a linguagem ideogramática lida com contradições com que a lógica aristotélica não é capaz de lidar. O pensamento estratégico chinês é, nesse sentido, diferente do pensamento ocidental. O problema de pesquisa está embasado, também, na percepção de que as necessidades surgidas da análise ambiental, na disciplina Ecologia de Empresas, vão ao encontro das soluções propostas pelo pensamento chinês. Em última análise, este artigo é uma tentativa de mostrar que o pensamento tradicional chinês é uma resposta a uma pergunta contemporânea do ocidnte. Principalmente se considerarmos que a visão não reducionista da filosofia oriental completa o ponto de vista complexo da ecoloia que não procura excluir variáveis de seus objetos de estudo, mas incluí‐los. Finalmente, sugere‐se que as cadeias produtivas humanas podem se beneficiar de modelos adaptativos biológicos de especialização do trabalho e suasinter‐relações intrínsecas.
A propriedade intelectual como elemento estratégico da gestão do conhecimento
Authors: Carvalho Isamir Machado de , Veras Vivianne Muniz
Published: July 2016

A interação entre os indivíduos para a explicitação de conhecimentos tem sido instigada como uma das formas de compartilhamento de conhecimento para contribuir para o sucesso empresarial. Nesse contexto, surge a questão: está claro para os empregados e gerentes o que deve ser compartilhado e o que deve ser protegido para garantir os negócios e evitar litígios? O artigo aborda o processo de adaptação do conjunto de orientações formais (política e norma) às leis (Lei nº 9.610/98 - Direito Autoral, Lei nº 9.609/98 - Programa de Computador e Lei nº 9.279/96 - Propriedade Industrial), como forma de regulamentação da proteção ao conhecimento. Trata-se de estudo, exploratório e descritivo, em uma empresa pública de Tecnologia de Informação e Comunicações (TIC), que considerou, principalmente, as abordagens sugeridas por Von Krog et al (2001) e King (2002). Os aspectos relevantes estabelecidos foram: princípios da Política de Propriedade Intelectual; estrutura de classificação da Norma; principais modelos de documentos da Norma; tópicos polêmicos. A conclusão aponta para a necessidade de entendimento apropriado em busca do equilíbrio entre a proteção ao conhecimento e o compartilhamento do conhecimento, de modo útil, considerando indivíduos e organizações.
Concessões de florestas públicas: estratégia viável para o desenvolvimento sustentável do setor florestal na Amazônia
Authors: Remor Adriano Ramos , Hillbucht Ronald Otto
Published: July 2016

O momento histórico atual requer uma reflexão sobre alternativas para o desenvolvimento sustentável do setor florestal na Amazônia. É nessa perspectiva que se insere este artigo, que tem como objetivo a análise do desenvolvimento sustentável por meio da concessão de florestas públicas. O estabelecimento de estratégias de desenvolvimento sustentável envolve uma mudança conceitual na acepção dos empreendimentos, isto é, promover a eficiência da exploração dos recursos naturais, no caso, a da madeira, impedindo a degradação e devastação da floresta pela ocupação desordenada de atividades e, ao mesmo tempo, aumentando o crescimento econômico por meio de uma gestão sustentável, resultando assim na redução dos impactos ambientais, no aumento da renda e na melhoria da qualidade de vida das populações locais. Para concretização deste estudo, utilizamos a abordagem qualitativa, quanto aos objetivos e procedimentos técnicos aplicamos a descritiva e a bibliográfica. Foram desenvolvidas algumas considerações acerca do recurso renovável representado pela madeira, seguida de uma reflexão sobre o setor florestal na Amazônia, abordando sua importância para o estado e seus pólos de desenvolvimento. Obteve-se, como resultado principal, que a concessão florestal possui diversas vantagens, a qual pode representar uma alternativa viável para a sustentabilidade do setor madeireiro na Amazônia. Ficou evidenciada a preocupação em oferecer contribuições às necessidades postas pela realidade contemporânea da Amazônia, na possibilidade de construção de alternativas adequadas ao seu desenvolvimento sustentável.
Pesquisa de clima organizacional em empresas de desenvolvimento de software de Blumenau – SC
Authors: Aléssio Simone Cristina , Dalfovo Oscar , Dalfovo Michael Samir , Fialho Francisco Antonio Pereira
Published: July 2016

O objetivo deste trabalho é estudar a influência das variáveis que compõem o Clima Organizacional em ambientes de desenvolvimento de software do município de Blumenau, SC, com o propósito de analisar as relações existentes nestes ambientes de trabalho. Parte-se do pressuposto de que as pessoas são as figuras mais importantes em uma organização, e o modo como se sente é fundamental para o equilíbrio de todos. Por isso, enfoca-se bastante a questão da cultura organizacional, que influencia diretamente o comportamento individual e coletivo dos colaboradores, sendo determinante no Clima Organizacional. Para isso, foi realizada uma pesquisa, levando-se em consideração fatores internos e externos que podem ter influência sobre o Clima Organizacional. Utilizou-se um questionário com 55 perguntas, retiradas do modelo de Carlos Alberto Ferreira Bispo (2006), aplicado em 12 empresas, das 20 selecionadas.
Estratégias de Crescimento e Vantagem Competitiva: Um Estudo Qualitativo Sobre Franchising, na Ótica do Franqueado
Authors: Carmo Gustavo Geovany Araujo do , Zilber Moises Ari
Published: July 2016

Este artigo objetiva entender como franqueadores e franqueados crescem e criam vantagem competitiva. Para tanto, realizou-se um estudo qualitativo a partir das impressões e opiniões de franqueados dos ramos de Alimentação e Esporte, Saúde, Beleza e Lazer, de acordo com a classificação da Associação Brasileira de Franchising (ABF). As principais estratégias de crescimento utilizadas pelos franqueadores são: (a) crescer pelo desenvolvimento de mercados e (b) pelo desenvolvimento de produtos. Para os franqueados prevalecem como estratégias de crescimento: (a) a penetração de mercado, (b) o desenvolvimento de mercados e, em alguns casos, (c) a diversificação. Foi destacada a importância dos recursos, principalmente as pessoas, para criação de Vantagem Competitiva. Em Franchising o relacionamento entre franqueador e franqueado e as redes de relacionamento de franqueados podem ser considerados como fatores de crescimento.
Cidades e territórios sustentáveis, paisagens culturais e desenvolvimento regional
Authors: Argollo Ferrão André Munhoz de
Published: July 2016

Numa região cujo espaço não-urbano obedece a princípios consagrados da boa gestão ecológica, patrimônio e paisagem constituem valores culturais e ambientais que se integram sistemicamente. Os limites territoriais administrativos coincidem com o das bacias hidrográficas que conformam a região. Agrupamentos urbanos sustentáveis vinculam-se às paisagens culturais que se destacam no território correspondente. Paisagem e arquitetura rural dissecadas pelo Método de Pesquisa Orientada a Processos — Método POP — constituem o universo de uma cidade sustentável, ou “ecocidade”. A integração sistêmica de todos esses elementos leva ao ordenamento territorial baseado na conexão patrimônio-paisagem cultural, a partir de empreendimentos ecologicamente corretos e economicamente adequados. Daí a necessidade de se compreender o território a partir de uma abordagem sistêmica e transdisciplinar que permita a conexão patrimônio-paisagem cultural.
New algorithm for problems with exponential solutions
Authors: Adesanya Olaide , Onsachi Oziohu , Odekunle Remilekun
Published: July 2016

In this paper, we consider the development of algorithms for the solution of first order initial value problems whose solution exhibits exponential behaviour. Method of interpolation and collocation of basis function to give system of nonlinear equations which is solved for the unknown parameters to give a continuous scheme. The discrete methods recovered from the continuous scheme are implemented in block form. The stability properties of the method is verified and numerical experiments show that our method is efficient in handling these problems
Predicting Risk of Suicide Attempt Using History of Physical Illnesses From Electronic Medical Records
Authors: Karmakar Chandan , Luo Wei , Tran Truyen , Berk Michael , Venkatesh Svetha
Published: July 2016

Background

Although physical illnesses, routinely documented in electronic medical records (EMR), have been found to be a contributing factor to suicides, no automated systems use this information to predict suicide risk.

Objective

The aim of this study is to quantify the impact of physical illnesses on suicide risk, and develop a predictive model that captures this relationship using EMR data.

Methods

We used history of physical illnesses (except chapter V: Mental and behavioral disorders) from EMR data over different time-periods to build a lookup table that contains the probability of suicide risk for each chapter of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision (ICD-10) codes. The lookup table was then used to predict the probability of suicide risk for any new assessment. Based on the different lengths of history of physical illnesses, we developed six different models to predict suicide risk. We tested the performance of developed models to predict 90-day risk using historical data over differing time-periods ranging from 3 to 48 months. A total of 16,858 assessments from 7399 mental health patients with at least one risk assessment was used for the validation of the developed model. The performance was measured using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

Results

The best predictive results were derived (AUC=0.71) using combined data across all time-periods, which significantly outperformed the clinical baseline derived from routine risk assessment (AUC=0.56). The proposed approach thus shows potential to be incorporated in the broader risk assessment processes used by clinicians.

Conclusions

This study provides a novel approach to exploit the history of physical illnesses extracted from EMR (ICD-10 codes without chapter V-mental and behavioral disorders) to predict suicide risk, and this model outperforms existing clinical assessments of suicide risk.
Investigation on the thermodynamic analysis, preparation and characterization of LaNi5 - hydrogen storage alloy by magnesiothermic reduction diffusion process
Authors: Giresan G. , Sankaranarayanan S.R. , Berchmans L.J.
Published: July 2016

The present investigation focuses on the preparation of LaNi5 intermetallic
compound by ?Metallothermic reduction diffusion process?. Experiments were
carried out using oxides and chlorides of La and Ni metal powders as the raw
materials with granular Mg powder as the reductant. The thermal reduction
process was carried out at 900 ?C for 9 hrs in Ar atmosphere. After the
completion of reaction, the contents were purified by treating with dilute
acetic acid followed by de-ionized water. Thermodynamic feasibility studies
were carried out to determine the probabilistic nature of formation of the
desired compound. Thermal analysis was carried out to find the dissociation
and decomposition temperature of the reactants. The phase purity and the
elemental composition of the alloy were assessed by XRD and EDX analyses. The
morphological features of the prepared powders were examined by SEM. From
this study, it has been concluded that LaNi5 alloy can be prepared with an
appreciable purity by the Metallothermic reduction diffusion process.
Development of a method for determination of metallic iron content within hot briquette iron (HBI) for steelmaking
Authors: Morcali M.H.
Published: July 2016

The growing use of metallic iron in metallurgy and industrial chemical
applications requires a fast, easy and cheap method for the determination of
metallic iron, not merely in recyclable materials, such as iron pellets,
reduced iron mill scale dust, electric arc furnace dust and pig iron, but
from hot briquette iron (HBI) as well. This study investigates a new method
for determination of metallic iron within HBI used for steel-making
materials. The effects of reaction time, temperature, and stirring rate were
studied. The concentration of iron was determined via Atomic Absorption
Spectroscopy (AAS). After the optimization study, high-purity metallic iron
powder (Sigma-Aldrich, PubChem Substance ID 24855469) was used to compare
efficiencies and identify the optimum conditions; The present study was
matched with international standard methods (BS ISO 5416:2006, IS
15774:2007). Results were consistent with certified values and metallic iron
content could be determined within the 95% confidence level. The purposed
method is easy, straightforward, and cheap.
Pulmonary thromboembolism and sudden death in psychiatric patients: Two cases reports
Authors: Marinkovic Nadica , Rancic Dragana
Published: July 2016

Introduction. Pulmonary thromboembolism occurs usually by running a thrombus from the deep veins of the legs rarely periprostatic or periuteric veins. Virchow's triad of necessary conditions for the occurrence of thrombosis involves disruption of blood flow, disruption of blood chemistry and damage to the vessel wall. Venous thrombosis is often associated with the implementation of antipsychotic therapy. Case report. We reported two cases of sudden death of psychiatric patients who were in both cases fixed during hospitalization. The first case was a 26-year-old woman treated a year with the diagnose of postpartum reactive psychosis. She was hospitalized because of mental state worsening with a dominant depressed mood, visual and auditory hallucinations. Her therapy was determined by diazepam, clozapine, haloperidol and lamotrigine. Suddenly, the patient died on the fifth day of hospitalization. The autopsy showed massive thromboembolism of the pulmonary artery branches. Toxicological analysis revealed the presence of therapeutic doses of antipsychotics. The second case was a-45-yearold men, a long-time alcoholic. On admission, the diagnosis of delirium tremens was established, and diazepam and haloperidol were administered. On the fifth day of hospitalization, he suddenly died. The autopsy showed thromboembolism of the branch of the pulmonary artery. Toxicological analysis established the presence of nordiazepam in urine (0.06 mg/L). Both patients were fixed during hospitalization. Conclusion. Both presented psychiatric patients were younger than 50 years, were not overweight, did not have changes of the venous blood vessels. Nowadays, when the issue of medical responsibility often arises in these and similar cases of sudden death in patients treated in psychiatric clinics, the questions on medical malpractice could be expected.
Wer arbeitet wie viel? Entscheidungen über den Erwerbsumfang im Partnerschaftskontext
Authors: Frodermann Corinna
Published: July 2016

Investigating employment decisions in couples by two competing microeconomic theories requires attention to the current employment situation. Depending on the theoretical approach, the current employment constellation either prescribes current specialization strategies by the partners which have to be constantly updated (new home economics). Or it determines the bargaining power structure that each partner wants to optimize for his or her own benefit (bargaining theory). In this paper, the influence of the current employment constellation on desired future constellation is analyzed. A factorial survey module was implemented in the panel study "Labour Market and Social Security" (PASS). In this module, respondents evaluated the willingness to accept hypothetical job offers. Results support hypotheses from bargaining theory: People are interested in achieving an equal power structure in their relationships. They do not favor to continue existing specializations as new home economics would predict.

Zusammenfassung

Um die Entscheidung über den Erwerbsumfang im Partnerschaftskontext anhand zweier konkurrierender mikroökonomischer Theorien zu untersuchen, muss die derzeitige Erwerbskonstellation berücksichtigt werden. Denn je nach theoretischem Ansatz kann sie einerseits die aktuelle Spezialisierungslogik vorgeben, die fortgeschrieben werden soll (Neue Haushaltsökonomie), oder andererseits die paarinternen Machtverhältnisse bestimmen, die möglichst zugunsten der eigenen Position verändert werden sollen (Verhandlungstheorie). Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird die Frage nach dem Einfluss der bisherigen Erwerbskonstellation auf die Entscheidung für zukünftige Erwerbskonstellationen untersucht. Dazu wird auf ein Faktorielles Survey- Design im Panel „Arbeitsmarkt und soziale Sicherung“ (PASS) zur Erfassung der Stellenannahmebereitschaft zurückgegriffen. Es zeigt sich, dass Personen in Paarhaushalten vor allem an einem Ausgleich der Machtstruktur interessiert sind und sich nicht für eine Fortschreibung bestehender Spezialisierungen entscheiden.
Einführung in das Schwerpunktthema: Kinderlosigkeit und Kinderreichtum: Gründe und Daten für eine paritätsspezifische Fertilitätsforschung
Authors: Bujard Martin , Lück Detlev
Published: July 2016

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Hydrodynamic Performance of Aquatic Flapping: Efficiency of Underwater Flight in the Manta
Authors: Fish Frank , Schreiber Christian , Moored Keith , Liu Geng , Dong Haibo , Bart-Smith Hilary
Published: July 2016

The manta is the largest marine organism to swim by dorsoventral oscillation (flapping) of the pectoral fins. The manta has been considered to swim with a high efficiency stroke, but this assertion has not been previously examined. The oscillatory swimming strokes of the manta were examined by detailing the kinematics of the pectoral fin movements swimming over a range of speeds and by analyzing simulations based on computational fluid dynamic potential flow and viscous models. These analyses showed that the fin movements are asymmetrical up- and downstrokes with both spanwise and chordwise waves interposed into the flapping motions. These motions produce complex three-dimensional flow patterns. The net thrust for propulsion was produced from the distal half of the fins. The vortex flow pattern and high propulsive efficiency of 89% were associated with Strouhal numbers within the optimal range (0.2–0.4) for rays swimming at routine and high speeds. Analysis of the swimming pattern of the manta provided a baseline for creation of a bio-inspired underwater vehicle, MantaBot.
Thermal Energy Storage for Building Load Management: Application to Electrically Heated Floor
Authors: Thieblemont Hélène , Haghighat Fariborz , Moreau Alain
Published: July 2016

In cold climates, electrical power demand for space conditioning becomes a critical issue for utility companies during certain periods of the day. Shifting a portion or all of it to off-peak periods can help reduce peak demand and reduce stress on the electrical grid. Sensible thermal energy storage (TES) systems, and particularly electrically heated floors (EHF), can store thermal energy in buildings during the off-peak periods and release it during the peak periods while maintaining occupants’ thermal comfort. However, choosing the type of storage system and/or its configuration may be difficult. In this paper, the performance of an EHF for load management is studied. First, a methodology is developed to integrate EHF in TRNSYS program in order to investigate the impact of floor assembly on the EHF performance. Then, the thermal comfort (TC) of the night-running EHF is studied. Finally, indicators are defined, allowing the comparison of different EHF. Results show that an EHF is able to shift 84% of building loads to the night while maintaining acceptable TC in cold climate. Moreover, this system is able to provide savings for the customer and supplier if there is a significant difference between off-peak and peak period electricity prices.
A Selective Dynamic Sampling Back-Propagation Approach for Handling the Two-Class Imbalance Problem
Authors: Alejo Roberto , Monroy-de-Jesús Juan , Pacheco-Sánchez Juan , López-González Erika , Antonio-Velázquez Juan
Published: July 2016

In this work, we developed a Selective Dynamic Sampling Approach (SDSA) to deal with the class imbalance problem. It is based on the idea of using only the most appropriate samples during the neural network training stage. The “average samples”are the best to train the neural network, they are neither hard, nor easy to learn, and they could improve the classifier performance. The experimental results show that the proposed method is a successful method to deal with the two-class imbalance problem. It is very competitive with respect to well-known over-sampling approaches and dynamic sampling approaches, even often outperforming the under-sampling and standard back-propagation methods. SDSA is a very simple method for automatically selecting the most appropriate samples (average samples) during the training of the back-propagation, and it is very efficient. In the training stage, SDSA uses significantly fewer samples than the popular over-sampling approaches and even than the standard back-propagation trained with the original dataset.
Antibody–Drug Conjugates for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Parslow Adam , Parakh Sagun , Lee Fook-Thean , Gan Hui , Scott Andrew
Published: July 2016

Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) take advantage of the specificity of a monoclonal antibody to deliver a linked cytotoxic agent directly into a tumour cell. The development of these compounds provides exciting opportunities for improvements in patient care. Here, we review the key issues impacting on the clinical success of ADCs in cancer therapy. Like many other developing therapeutic classes, there remain challenges in the design and optimisation of these compounds. As the clinical applications for ADCs continue to expand, key strategies to improve patient outcomes include better patient selection for treatment and the identification of mechanisms of therapy resistance.
Antisense-Based Progerin Downregulation in HGPS-Like Patients’ Cells
Authors: Harhouri Karim , Navarro Claire , Baquerre Camille , Da Silva Nathalie , Bartoli Catherine , Casey Frank , Mawuse Guedenon , Doubaj Yassamine , Lévy Nicolas , De Sandre-Giovannoli Annachiara
Published: July 2016

Progeroid laminopathies, including Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS, OMIM #176670), are premature and accelerated aging diseases caused by defects in nuclear A-type Lamins. Most HGPS patients carry a de novo point mutation within exon 11 of the LMNA gene encoding A-type Lamins. This mutation activates a cryptic splice site leading to the deletion of 50 amino acids at its carboxy-terminal domain, resulting in a truncated and permanently farnesylated Prelamin A called Prelamin A Δ50 or Progerin. Some patients carry other LMNA mutations affecting exon 11 splicing and are named “HGPS-like” patients. They also produce Progerin and/or other truncated Prelamin A isoforms (Δ35 and Δ90) at the transcriptional and/or protein level. The results we present show that morpholino antisense oligonucleotides (AON) prevent pathogenic LMNA splicing, markedly reducing the accumulation of Progerin and/or other truncated Prelamin A isoforms (Prelamin A Δ35, Prelamin A Δ90) in HGPS-like patients’ cells. Finally, a patient affected with Mandibuloacral Dysplasia type B (MAD-B, carrying a homozygous mutation in ZMPSTE24, encoding an enzyme involved in Prelamin A maturation, leading to accumulation of wild type farnesylated Prelamin A), was also included in this study. These results provide preclinical proof of principle for the use of a personalized antisense approach in HGPS-like and MAD-B patients, who may therefore be eligible for inclusion in a therapeutic trial based on this approach, together with classical HGPS patients.
Sensitization and Clinically Relevant Allergy to Hair Dyes and Clothes from Black Henna Tattoos: Do People Know the Risk? An Uncommon Serious Case and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Moro Paola , Morina Marco , Milani Fabrizia , Pandolfi Marco , Guerriero Francesca , Bernardo Luca
Published: July 2016

Henna (Lawsonia inermis L.) tattooing has been used in Egypt and India since ancient times. Today this temporary body art is becoming increasingly popular among young people. Various chemicals are added to henna to darken and enhance the definition of tattoos, especially para-phenylenediamine (PPD), which is a strong sensitizer known to cause cross sensitive reactions to azoic dyes and other para-amino compounds. We present the case of an 18-year-old girl who became clinically sensitive to textile dyes after having showed a serious reaction both to her first hair dying when she was 16 years old and following the application of a temporary henna tattoo when she was a kid. The evidence from our literature review showed 33 cases of manifest sensitization to hair dye and only one of observable contact allergy to both hair and textile dyes from henna tattoos. The sensitization of children may have long-life lasting consequences, because of cross-reaction to dyes and other chemicals contained in hair colourants, clothes and drugs. Since tattoos are very popular and globalization has increased the circulation of unauthorized products we point out the need for informative campaigns about the risk of sensitization caused by temporary tattoos.
Estimating Aboveground Biomass and Carbon Stocks in Periurban Andean Secondary Forests Using Very High Resolution Imagery
Authors: Clerici Nicola , Rubiano Kristian , Abd-Elrahman Amr , Posada Hoestettler Juan , Escobedo Francisco
Published: July 2016

Periurban forests are key to offsetting anthropogenic carbon emissions, but they are under constant threat from urbanization. In particular, secondary Neotropical forest types in Andean periurban areas have a high potential to store carbon, but are currently poorly characterized. To address this lack of information, we developed a method to estimate periurban aboveground biomass (AGB)—a proxy for multiple ecosystem services—of secondary Andean forests near Bogotá, Colombia, based on very high resolution (VHR) GeoEye-1, Pleiades-1A imagery and field-measured plot data. Specifically, we tested a series of different pre-processing workflows to derive six vegetation indices that were regressed against in situ estimates of AGB. Overall, the coupling of linear models and the Ratio Vegetation Index produced the most satisfactory results. Atmospheric and topographic correction proved to be key in improving model fit, especially in high aerosol and rugged terrain such as the Andes. Methods and findings provide baseline AGB and carbon stock information for little studied periurban Andean secondary forests. The methodological approach can also be used for integrating limited forest monitoring plot AGB data with very high resolution imagery for cost-effective modelling of ecosystem service provision from forests, monitoring reforestation and forest cover change, and for carbon offset assessments.
Three-Dimensional Geological Model of Quaternary Sediments in Walworth County, Wisconsin, USA
Authors: Lau Jodi , Thomason Jason , Malone David , Peterson Eric
Published: July 2016

A three-dimensional (3D) geologic model was developed for Quaternary deposits in southern Walworth County, WI using Petrel, a software package primarily designed for use in the energy industry. The purpose of this research was to better delineate and characterize the shallow glacial deposits, which include multiple shallow sand and gravel aquifers. The 3D model of Walworth County was constructed using datasets such as the U.S. Geological Survey 30 m digital elevation model (DEM) of land surface, published maps of the regional surficial geology and bedrock topography, and a database of water-well records. Using 3D visualization and interpretation tools, more than 1400 lithostratigraphic picks were efficiently interpreted amongst 725 well records. The final 3D geologic model consisted of six Quaternary lithostratigraphic units and a bedrock horizon as the model base. The Quaternary units include in stratigraphic order from youngest to oldest: the New Berlin Member of the Holy Hill Formation, the Tiskilwa Member of the Zenda Formation, a Sub-Tiskilwa Sand/Gravel unit, the Walworth Formation, a Sub-Walworth Sand/Gravel unit, and a Pre-Illinoisan unit. Compared to previous studies, the results of this study indicate a more detailed distribution, thickness, and interconnectivity between shallow sand and gravel aquifers and their connectivity to shallow bedrock aquifers. This study can also help understand uncertainty within previous local groundwater-flow modeling studies and improve future studies.
A Community-Based Study of Quality of Life and Depression among Older Adults
Authors: Cao Wenjun , Guo Chongzheng , Ping Weiwei , Tan Zhijun , Guo Ying , Zheng Jianzhong
Published: July 2016

The goal of the study was to assess the quality of life (QOL) and depression and provide further insights into the relationship between QOL and depression among community-dwelling elderly Chinese people. Baseline data were collected from 1168 older adults (aged ≥ 60) in a large, prospective cohort study on measurement and evaluation of health-promoting and health-protecting behaviors intervention on chronic disease in different community-dwelling age groups. QOL was assessed using the 26-item, World Health Organization Quality of Life, brief version (WHOQOL-BREF) and depression was assessed using the 30-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). The mean WHOQOL-BREF score for all dimensions was approximately 60, with the highest mean value (61.92) observed for social relationships, followed by environment, physical health, and psychological health domains. In this cohort, 26.1% of elderly urban adults met GDS criteria for depression. There were negative correlations between physical health (Odds Ratio (OR) = 0.928, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.910–0.946), psychological health (OR = 0.906, 95% CI: 0.879–0.934), environment (OR = 0.966, 95% CI: 0.944–0.989) and depression among elderly people. Those with depression were older, less educated, had a lower monthly income, and were more likely to report insomnia. All WHOQOL-BREF domains, with the exception of the social domain were negatively correlated with depression.
Health Impact Assessment of Air Pollution in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Abe Karina , Miraglia Simone
Published: July 2016

Epidemiological research suggests that air pollution may cause chronic diseases, as well as exacerbation of related pathologies such as cardiovascular and respiratory morbidity and mortality. This study evaluates air pollution scenarios considering a Health Impact Assessment approach in São Paulo, Brazil. We have analyzed abatement scenarios of Particulate Matter (PM) with an aerodynamic diameter <10 μm (PM10), <2.5 μm (PM2.5) and ozone concentrations and the health effects on respiratory and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in the period from 2009 to 2011 through the APHEKOM tool, as well as the associated health costs. Considering World Health Organization (WHO) standards of PM2.5 (10 μg/m3), São Paulo would avoid more than 5012 premature deaths (equivalent to 266,486 life years’ gain) and save US$15.1 billion annually. If São Paulo could even diminish the mean of PM2.5 by 5 μg/m3, nearly 1724 deaths would be avoided, resulting in a gain of US$ 4.96 billion annually. Reduced levels of PM10, PM2.5 and ozone could save lives and an impressive amount of money in a country where economic resources are scarce. Moreover, the reduced levels of air pollution would also lower the demand for hospital care, since hospitalizations would diminish. In this sense, Brazil should urgently adopt WHO air pollution standards in order to improve the quality of life of its population.
MMP-9 Serum Levels in Schizophrenic Patients during Treatment Augmentation with Sarcosine (Results of the PULSAR Study)
Authors: Strzelecki Dominik , Kałużyńska Olga , Szyburska Justyna , Wysokiński Adam
Published: July 2016

Aim: Find changes in matrix metallopeptidase-9 (MMP-9) levels during augmentation of antipsychotic treatment with sarcosine and a relationship between schizophrenia symptoms severity and initial level of MMP-9. Method: Fifty-eight patients with diagnosis of schizophrenia with predominant negative symptoms participated in a six-month prospective RCT (randomized controlled trial). The patients received two grams of sarcosine (n = 28) or placebo (n = 30) daily. At the beginning, after six weeks and after six months MMP-9 levels were measured. Severity of symptomatology was assessed with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia (CDSS). Results: MMP-9 serum levels were stable after six weeks and six months in both groups. We noted improvement in negative symptoms, general psychopathology and total PANSS score in sarcosine group compared to placebo; however, there was no correlations between serum MMP-9 concentrations and PANSS scores in all assessments. Initial serum MMP-9 concentrations cannot be used as an improvement predictor acquired during sarcosine augmentation. Conclusions: Our results indicate that either MMP-9 is not involved in the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA)-dependent mechanism of sarcosine action in terms of clinical parameters or sarcosine induced changes in peripheral MMP-9 concentrations cannot be detected in blood assessments.
Expression of Tenascin C, EGFR, E-Cadherin, and TTF-1 in Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma and the Correlation with RET Mutation Status
Authors: Steiner Florian , Hauser-Kronberger Cornelia , Rendl Gundula , Rodrigues Margarida , Pirich Christian
Published: July 2016

Tenascin C expression correlates with tumor grade and indicates worse prognosis in several tumors. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays an important role in driving proliferation in many tumors. Loss of E-cadherin function is associated with tumor invasion and metastasis. Thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1) is involved in rearranged during transfection (RET) transcription in Hirschsprung’s disease. Tenascin C, EGFR, E-cadherin, TTF-1-expression, and their correlations with RET mutation status were investigated in 30 patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) (n = 26) or C-cell hyperplasia (n = 4). Tenascin C was found in all, EGFR in 4/26, E-cadherin in 23/26, and TTF-1 in 25/26 MTC. Tenascin C correlated significantly with tumor proliferation (overall, r = 0.61, p < 0.005; RET-mutated, r = 0.81, p < 0.01). E-cadherin showed weak correlation, whereas EGFR and TTF-1 showed no significant correlation with tumor proliferation. EGFR, E-cadherin, and TTF-1 showed weak correlation with proliferation of RET-mutated tumors. Correlation between TTF-1 and tenascin C, E-cadherin, and EGFR was r = −0.10, 0.37, and 0.21, respectively. In conclusion, MTC express tenascin C, E-cadherin, and TTF-1. Tenascin C correlates significantly with tumor proliferation, especially in RET-mutated tumors. EGFR is low, and tumors expressing EGFR do not exhibit higher proliferation. TTF-1 does not correlate with RET mutation status and has a weak correlation with tenascin C, E-cadherin, and EGFR expression.
MAL Daylight Photodynamic Therapy for Actinic Keratosis: Clinical and Imaging Evaluation by 3D Camera
Authors: Cantisani Carmen , Paolino Giovanni , Pellacani Giovanni , Didona Dario , Scarno Marco , Faina Valentina , Gobello Tommaso , Calvieri Stefano
Published: July 2016

Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common skin cancer with an incidence that varies widely worldwide. Among them, actinic keratosis (AK), considered by some authors as in situ squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), are the most common and reflect an abnormal multistep skin cell development due to the chronic ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. No ideal treatment exists, but the potential risk of their development in a more invasive form requires prompt treatment. As patients usually present with multiple AK on fields of actinic damage, there is a need for effective, safe, simple and short treatments which allow the treatment of large areas. To achieve this, daylight photodynamic therapy (DL-PDT) is an innovative treatment for multiple mild actinic keratosis, well tolerated by patients. Patients allocated to the PDT unit, affected by multiple mild−moderate and severe actinic keratosis on sun-exposed areas treated with DL-PDT, were clinically evaluated at baseline and every three months with an Antera 3D, Miravex© camera. Clinical and 3D images were performed at each clinical check almost every three months. In this retrospective study, 331 patients (56.7% male, 43.3% female) were treated with DL-PDT. We observed a full clearance in more than two-thirds of patients with one or two treatments. Different responses depend on the number of lesions and on their severity; for patients with 1–3 lesions and with grade I or II AK, a full clearance was reached in 85% of cases with a maximum of two treatments. DL-PDT in general improved skin tone and erased sun damage. Evaluating each Antera 3D images, hemoglobin concentration and pigmentation, a skin color and tone improvement in 310 patients was observed. DL-PDT appears as a promising, effective, simple, tolerable and practical treatment for actinic damage associated with AK, and even treatment of large areas can be with little or no pain. The 3D imaging allowed for quantifying in real time the aesthetic benefits of DL-PDT’s increasing compliance.
Power-Budget Equations and Calibration Factors for Fish Abundance Estimation Using Scientific Echo Sounder and Sonar Systems
Authors: Lunde Per , Korneliussen Rolf
Published: July 2016

Acoustic methods used in fish abundance estimation constitute a key part of the analytic assessment that makes the basis for abundance estimation of marine resources. The methods rely on power-budget equations and calibrated systems. Different formulations of power-budget equations and calibration factors have been proposed for use in scientific echo sounder and sonar systems. There are unresolved questions and apparent inconsistencies in prior literature related to this field. A generic (instrument independent) and unifying theory is presented that attempts to explain the different power-budget and calibration factor formulations proposed and used in prior literature, and how these are mutually related. Deviations and apparent inconsistencies in this literature appear to be explained and corrected. This also includes different (instrument specific) formulations employed in important modern scientific echo sounder systems, and their relationship to the generic theory of abundance estimation. Prior literature is extended to provide more complete power-budget equations for fish abundance estimation and species identification, by accounting for echo integration, electrical termination, and the full range of electrical and acoustical echo sounder parameters. The expressions provide a consistent theoretical basis for improved understanding of conventional methods and instruments used today, also enabling improved sensitivity and error analyses, and correction possibilities.
Preparation of a Carbon Doped Tissue-Mimicking Material with High Dielectric Properties for Microwave Imaging Application
Authors: Lan Siang-Wen , Weng Min-Hang , Yang Ru-Yuan , Chang Shoou-Jinn , Chung Yaoh-Sien , Yu Tsung-Chih , Wu Chun-Sen
Published: July 2016

In this paper, the oil-in-gelatin based tissue-mimicking materials (TMMs) doped with carbon based materials including carbon nanotube, graphene ink or lignin were prepared. The volume percent for gelatin based mixtures and oil based mixtures were both around 50%, and the doping amounts were 2 wt %, 4 wt %, and 6 wt %. The effect of doping material and amount on the microwave dielectric properties including dielectric constant and conductivity were investigated over an ultra-wide frequency range from 2 GHz to 20 GHz. The coaxial open-ended reflection technology was used to evaluate the microwave dielectric properties. Six measured values in different locations of each sample were averaged and the standard deviations of all the measured dielectric properties, including dielectric constant and conductivity, were less than one, indicating a good uniformity of the prepared samples. Without doping, the dielectric constant was equal to 23 ± 2 approximately. Results showed with doping of carbon based materials that the dielectric constant and conductivity both increased about 5% to 20%, and the increment was dependent on the doping amount. By proper selection of doping amount of the carbon based materials, the prepared material could map the required dielectric properties of special tissues. The proposed materials were suitable for the phantom used in the microwave medical imaging system.
A New Method of Fixing High-Aspect-Ratio Microstructures by Gel
Authors: Chen Nan , Chen Xiangyu , Xiong Penghui , Hou Shuangyue , Zhang Xiaobo , Xiong Ying , Liu Gang , Tian Yangchao
Published: July 2016

In the microfabrication processes, it is necessary to examine the quality of the structures to ensure the whole process runs smoothly. However, the examination process of pattern defects is interrupted during the fabrication of high-aspect-ratio microstructures. The inevitable pattern defects arise from capillary forces which occur during the liquid drying process. In this paper, a new method that enables us to fix the microstructures with gel to restrict deformations before the rinsed liquid drying process has been proposed. It is effective to avoid the capillary forces by preventing the formation of the liquid level. The process parameters, types of gel, gel time and observation time were discussed and the flatness and thickness of the gel layer could be controlled. A series of high-aspect-ratio microstructures were fixed in good condition by gel.
Site-Specific, Covalent Immobilization of Dehalogenase ST2570 Catalyzed by Formylglycine-Generating Enzymes and Its Application in Batch and Semi-Continuous Flow Reactors
Authors: Jian Hui , Wang Yingwu , Bai Yan , Li Rong , Gao Renjun
Published: July 2016

Formylglycine-generating enzymes can selectively recognize and oxidize cysteine residues within the sulfatase sub motif at the terminus of proteins to form aldehyde-bearing formylglycine (FGly) residues, and are normally used in protein labeling. In this study, an aldehyde tag was introduced to proteins using formylglycine-generating enzymes encoded by a reconstructed set of the pET28a plasmid system for enzyme immobilization. The haloacid dehalogenase ST2570 from Sulfolobus tokodaii was used as a model enzyme. The C-terminal aldehyde-tagged ST2570 (ST2570CQ) exhibited significant enzymological properties, such as new free aldehyde groups, a high level of protein expression and improved enzyme activity. SBA-15 has widely been used as an immobilization support for its large surface and excellent thermal and chemical stability. It was functionalized with amino groups by aminopropyltriethoxysilane. The C-terminal aldehyde-tagged ST2570 was immobilized to SBA-15 by covalent binding. The site-specific immobilization of ST2570 avoided the chemical denaturation that occurs in general covalent immobilization and resulted in better fastening compared to physical adsorption. The site-specific immobilized ST2570 showed 3-fold higher thermal stability, 1.2-fold higher catalytic ability and improved operational stability than free ST2570. The site-specific immobilized ST2570 retained 60% of its original activity after seven cycles of batch operation, and it was superior to the ST2570 immobilized to SBA-15 by physical adsorption, which loses 40% of its original activity when used for the second time. It is remarkable that the site-specific immobilized ST2570 still retained 100% of its original activity after 10 cycles of reuse in the semi-continuous flow reactor. Overall, these results provide support for the industrial-scale production and application of site-specific, covalently immobilized ST2570.
In Situ Enzymatically Generated Photoswitchable Oxidase Mimetics and Their Application for Colorimetric Detection of Glucose Oxidase
Authors: Cao Gen-Xia , Wu Xiu-Ming , Dong Yu-Ming , Li Zai-Jun , Wang Guang-Li
Published: July 2016

In this study, a simple and amplified colorimetric assay is developed for the detection of the enzymatic activity of glucose oxidase (GOx) based on in situ formation of a photoswitchable oxidase mimetic of PO43−-capped CdS quantum dots (QDs). GOx catalyzes the oxidation of 1-thio-β-d-glucose to give 1-thio-β-d-gluconic acid which spontaneously hydrolyzes to β-d-gluconic acid and H2S; the generated H2S instantly reacts with Cd2+ in the presence of Na3PO4 to give PO43−-stabilized CdS QDs in situ. Under visible-light (λ ≥ 400 nm) stimulation, the PO43−-capped CdS QDs are a new style of oxidase mimic derived by producing some active species, such as h+, •OH, O2•− and a little H2O2, which can oxidize the typical substrate (3,3,5,5-tetramethylbenzydine (TMB)) with a color change. Based on the GOx-triggered growth of the oxidase mimetics of PO43−-capped CdS QDs in situ, we developed a simple and amplified colorimetric assay to probe the enzymatic activity of GOx. The proposed method allowed the detection of the enzymatic activity of GOx over the range from 25 μg/L to 50 mg/L with a low detection limit of 6.6 μg/L. We believe the PO43−-capped CdS QDs generated in situ with photo-stimulated enzyme-mimicking activity may find wide potential applications in biosensors.
Efficient MW-Assisted Synthesis, Spectroscopic Characterization, X-ray and Antioxidant Properties of Indazole Derivatives
Authors: Polo Efrain , Trilleras Jorge , Ramos Juan , Galdámez Antonio , Quiroga Jairo , Gutierrez Margarita
Published: July 2016

A small series of tetrahydroindazoles was prepared, starting from 2-acetylcyclohexanone and different hydrazines using reflux and a focused microwave reactor. Microwave irradiation (MW) favored the formation of the desired products with improved yields and shortened reaction times. This is a simple and green method for the synthesis of substituted tetrahydroindazole derivatives. The in vitro antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH and ABTS methods. In these assays, 2-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-methyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-2H-indazole (3f) showed moderate DPPH decoloring activity, while 3-methyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-indazole (3a), 3-methyl-2-phenyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-2H-indazole (3b) and 2-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-methyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-2H-indazole (3f) were the most active in the ABTS assay. All compounds were well characterized by IR, 1H-, 13C-NMR and GC-MS spectroscopy and physical data, while the structure of 4-(3-methyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-2H-indazol-2-yl)benzoic acid (3e) was also determined by single crystal X-ray analysis.