bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Legislação de Segurança Contra Incêndio em Edifícios
Authors: Gomes António
Published: September 2017

A regulamentação de segurança das instalações reveste‐se da maior relevância, não só em consideração à vida humana, como à própria actividade económica.Motivada pela constante evolução da tecnologia, do surgimento de novos materiais e equipamentos e das exigências funcionais dos espaços, a regulamentação de segurança requer uma constante actualização e adaptação a essa novas necessidades e exigências.Cada vez mais a segurança de pessoas e bens é uma directriz fundamental aquando da realização dos projectos e execução dos edifícios, dos mais diversos fins.De forma a precaver situações que possam colocar em risco pessoas e bens, são consideradas medidas activas e passivas de protecção, das quais poderemos destacar os sistemas de detecção automática de incêndio, detecção automática de intrusão, sinalização de saída, etc.Assim, a especial preocupação com a segurança de pessoas e bens justifica a importância ocupada pela segurança, a qual exige a necessidade de se assegurar a forma como são projectadas, executadas, exploradas e conservadas, em geral as instalações e em particular as instalações de segurança dos edifícios.Torna‐se, pois, imperioso garantir‐se o cumprimento, por parte de todos de todos os agentes envolvidos (projectistas, instaladores...), da aplicação dos regulamentos estabelecidos para as instalações de Segurança.Esta tarefa apenas poderá ser conseguida se houver um conhecimento completo e profundo dos diplomas legais que enquadram a área de segurança dos edifícios.O presente trabalho tem, pois, por objectivo, sistematizar e apresentar a presente regulamentação contra incêndios em edifícios, bem como apresentar o futuro Regulamento de Segurança Contra Incêndio em Edifícios, que vem criar um inovador enquadramento nesta área, por forma a serem garantidas as exigências mínimas de protecção de pessoas, instalações e bens.
ITED – Infra‐Estruturas de Telecomunicações em Edifícios
Authors: Ramos Sérgio
Published: September 2017

Ao longo das últimas décadas, o nosso estilo e hábitos de vida tem vindo, paulatinamente, a ser alterados e melhorados, a par do desenvolvimento das economias, e dos progressos tecnológicos, contribuindo, sobremaneira para uma melhoria generalizada das condições sociais.Com desenvolvimento do sector económico tem‐se assistido em Portugal à implementação de ambientes liberalizados em áreas tradicionalmente controladas pelo estado e, assim, sujeitas a um verdadeiro regime de monopólio, como eram os casos do sector energético e das telecomunicações.A publicação do Decreto‐Lei n.º 59/2000, de 19 de Abril e a subsequente publicação das Prescrições Técnicas de Instalações e Especificações Técnicas de Equipamentos e Materiais, projectou Portugal para a vanguarda de um verdadeiro ambiente concorrencial ao nível das telecomunicações.O presente artigo visa, sucintamente, reflectir sobre o novo enquadramento das Infra‐estruturas de Telecomunicações em Edifício (ITED) criado pelo DL n.º 59/2000, de 19 de Abril, assim como, evidenciar os aspectos mais específicos desse mesmo enquadramento.
Gestão Técnica de Edifícios com KNX
Authors: Santos Domingos Salvador Gonçalves dos
Published: September 2017

A eficiência energética dos edifícios é cada vez mais uma das prioridades nas agendas dos gestores comercias dos edifícios e proprietários. Em parte deve-se ao processo de certificação energética dos edifícios, que entrou em vigor em 2007, através dos Decretos de Lei 78/2006, 79/2006 e 80/2006. A solução passa agora pela poupança contínua de energia através de uma eficiente Gestão Técnica de Edifícios.
Sistemas Automáticos de Segurança
Authors: Gomes António Augusto Araújo
Published: September 2017

A segurança de pessoas e bens é um aspecto fundamental na qualidade de vida das pessoas.Os sistemas automáticos de segurança em geral, e os sistemas automáticos de detecção de Monóxido de Carbono (CO) em particular, visam assegurar a protecção das pessoas em locais cuja qualidade atmosférica as possa por em perigo.
A EMENDA À CONSTITUIÇÃO Nº 96/2017 E O SENTIDO DA PALAVRA CRUELDADE/THE 96th BRAZILIAN CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT AND THE MEANING OF THE WORD CRUEL
Authors: Pereira Thiago Rodrigues
Published: September 2017

RESUMOA presente pesquisa visa analisar a constitucionalidade da EC nº96/2017 que autoriza a prática de atos cruéis com animais desde que esteja inserido em uma prática cultural. A referida emenda determina que, esse caráter cultural, teria por si só a possibilidade de mudar a ideia de cruel, que já se encontra dentro do próprio texto constitucional e, que a princípio, viola lições básicas de hermenêutica. Palavras-chave: Emenda constitucional. Crueldade. Animais. ABSTRACT This article investigates the unconstitutionality of the 96th Brazilian constitutional amendment. This amendment allowed cruel human acts against animals if these acts were cultural acts. So, this cultural feature can change the meaning of the word cruel, after the 96th amendment, even there is diverse sense within the constitution. At first, these constitutional amendments are violating basic lessons of hermeneutics and the constitution itself. Keywords: Constitutional amendment. Cruelty. Animals.
ATIVISMO JUDICIAL E A PROTEÇÃO DAS REGRAS DO JOGO: UMA ANÁLISE DO VOTO-VISTA DO MINISTRO LUIS ROBERTO BARROSO NO RE Nº 580.252/MS / JUDICIAL ACTIVISM AND PROTECTION OF GAME RULES: AN ANALYSIS OF THE MINISTER LUIS ROBERTO BARROSO VIEW-VOTE IN RE Nº 580.252/MS
Authors: Sancho Filipe Augusto Caetano , Braga Luiz Felipe Nobre
Published: September 2017

RESUMOO objetivo deste trabalho é analisar o voto-vista do Ministro Barroso e desvelar se ocorreu ativismo judicial e se houve respeito às regras do jogo democrático e, ao final, de acordo com o pensamento de Lenio Streck, analisar uma forma de evitar o ativismo judicial. Serão levantados os conflitos no voto sob análise e revelados os pontos de claro ativismo judicial. Para serem alcançados os objetivos da presente pesquisa será utilizado o método analítico e a técnica de pesquisa bibliográfica. Palavras-chave: Ativismo judicial. Hermenêutica. Direito. ABSTRACT The objective of this study is to analyze the Minister Barroso view-vote and reveal if there was judicial activism or whether respect for the rules of the democratic game and at the end, according to the thought of Lenio Streck, analyze a way of avoiding activism judicial. Conflicts will be raised in the analyzed vote and revealed the points of clear judicial activism. To be achieved the objectives of this research it will be used the analytical method and the technic of bibliographic research. Keywords:  Judicial activism. Hermeneutics. Law.
DIREITO E MORAL EM HERBERT HART/RIGHT AND MORAL IN HERBERT HART
Authors: Tardeli Rodrigo Martiniano
Published: September 2017

RESUMOEste artigo tem o escopo de apresentar o pensamento do jusfilósofo inglês Herbert Lionel Adolphus Hart (1907-1992), no que tange à conceituação do Direito e sua relação com a Moral. Palavras-chave: Direito. Moral. Pensamento Jusfilosófico. ABSTRACTThis article has the scope to present the thinking of the English philosopher Herbert Lionel Adolphus Hart (1907-1992), regarding the conceptualization of Law and its relation to Morals. Keywords: Law. Moral. Jusfilosófico Thought.
Profile of Caesarean Section at Kathmandu Medical College
Authors: Prasad Apurwa , Bhandari Garima , Saha Rachana
Published: September 2017

Background: There is a world-wide rise in caesarean section rateduring the last three decades and has been a cause of alarm and needs an in-depth study. The objective of this study was to determine the rate and clinical indications of Caesarean Section.Methods: A hospital based study was carried out from 15th June 2015 to 15th January 2016 in Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Kathmandu Medical College, Sinamangal, Nepal. Patients who delivered by caesarean section were included in the study. Basic demographic data and clinical indications were noted.  Results: A total of 1172 deliveries were carried out during the study period. Total number of caesarean section was 537 accounting to 45.81%. Most of the patients were of the age group of 25-29 years (42.8%). Most of the patients were primigravida (n=274; 51%). Emergency caesarean section was 411 (76.5%) and elective caesarean section was 126 (23.4%). Multigravida (71%) underwent more elective procedure than primigravida (25. 39%).The most frequent indication was fetal distress19.55% (n=105), failed induction 19.73%(n=106), and previous caesarean section 21.3% (n=115).Conclusions: The rate of cesarean section is quite high than that recommended by WHO which is (10-15%). Most of the caesarean sections were emergency caesarean section with previous caesarean being the leading cause.
Dentists in Nepal: A Situation Analysis
Authors: Shrestha Rabindra Man , Shrestha Sujita , Kunwar Nischal
Published: September 2017

Background: Human resource data is essential for planning and implementation of health care delivery system. However, very few information is available on dental health human resource in the country. The aim of study was to assess the number of dentists in the country and to explore their distribution according to demographic and professional characteristics.Methods: A census was performed during July 2015 to July 2016 about the Nepali dentists. The study assessed demographic and professional characteristics of dentists including age, gender, ethnicity, education attainment, university, country/year of graduation, and work place using data collection sheet by trained data collectors. For those not accessible for direct contact, the information was obtained through secondary data. Data entry was done in CSPro software application and was analyzed in SPSS 20. Results: The total number of registered Nepali dentists was 1803 with 419 specialists until June 2015. The male to female ratio was 1:1.46. Among all; 1318 (73%) were present in the country, 1047 (58%) were professionally active, and 1366 (76%) were below the age of 35 years. Among the professionals; 831 (79%) were employed in private sector and 601 (57%) worked in Kathmandu valley.Conclusions: The dentist-population ratio is decreasing exponentially in capital and major cities of Nepal however it remains very high in rural areas. Compared to other provinces,Province 6 and Province 7 lack service of dentists.
Morbidities and Outcome of a Neonatal Intensive Care in Western Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Sudhir , Rao Kalipatanam Seshagiri , B.K. Ganesh , Bahadur Namraj
Published: September 2017

Background: Neonatal mortality rate of developing countries is declining over decades. In the recent years increasing number of preterm and high risk neonates have facilities for tertiary care treatment. The aim of the study was to assess the morbidities and outcome of neonatal intensive care admissions.Methods: It was a retrospective observational study carried out in neonatal intensive care unit of the Manipal Teaching Hospital, Pokhara, Nepal from January 2014 to December 2015. Neonatal details including place of delivery, birth weight, gestation, diagnosis at admission, hospital course and final outcome were recorded in predesigned proforma. Risk of mortality was calculated using odds ratio and 95% confidence interval. Results: There were total 1708 admission during study period and inborn as well as out born neonates were equally admitted. Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (37.1%), neonatal sepsis 532 (31.2%), prematurity, 314 (18.4%) perinatal asphyxia 112 (6.6%), meconium aspiration syndrome 79 (4.6%) and intrauterine growth restriction 49 (2.8%) were main indications for hospitalization. A total of 1410 (82.6%) the patients were discharged after treatment, 167 (9.7) left against medical advice, 115 (6.7%) died in hospital and 16 (1%) cases were referred. Preterm neonates had twice the risk of mortality than term neonates (OR =2.1664). Birth weight < 2500 grams had three times more risk of neonatal mortality than normal birth weight (OR =3.0783).Conclusions: Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, prematurity and neonatal sepsis were common morbidities inneonatal intensive care unit.
Mesiodens: A Hospital Based Study
Authors: Limbu Senchhema , Dikshit Parajeeta , Gupta Sujaya
Published: September 2017

Background: A mesiodens, is the most frequent supernumerary tooth present in the maxillary central incisor region. This study is conducted to know the radiographic characteristics and management of mesiodens in children visiting hospital.Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective data collection was done from hospital dental records of children who visited the institution from December 2015-December 2016. Radiographic characteristic of mesiodens including the number, shape, position, direction of crown and complication caused by mesiodens were recorded. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS v.20.0.Results: Out of 1871 dental records, it was found that 40 children had 53 mesiodens, with male female ratio of 3:1 and most of them were discovered at 8 years. Majority of mesiodens, 54.7% were erupted, conical, palatally placed with 77.3% vertically directed crown.Complications associated with it were crowding followed by diastema and delayed eruption. Among 40 children, one had three mesiodens, eleven had two mesiodens and rest had one each. Radiographically fully formed tooth was seen in 29 mesiodens. Immature apex was seen in 38 central incisors associated with mesiodens. Management undertaken was simple/surgical extraction and only few cases were kept for periodic observation. Conclusions: Periodic radiographs act as an important tool for clinicians in detecting and managing mesiodens.
DFT anharmonic force field, and spectroscopic constants for phosphaethene, CH2PH
Authors: Pang Wei-Xiu , Wu Hong-Ye , Zhao Jian-Jun , Lu Yi , Sun Yun-Bin
Published: September 2017

The anharmonic force field and spectroscopy constants for phosphaethene are determined using density functional theory with B3PW91 and B3LYP functions employing cc-pVTZ and cc-pVQZ basis sets, respectively. Molecular structure, dipole moment and rotational spectroscopic constants are compared with obtainable experimental data. Most of the DFT results are close to observations for centrifugal distortion constants both in A-reducted and S-reducted form. The equilibrium states rotational constants computed by B3LYP/cc-pVQZ level of theory are in good agreement with observations, about only 0.07% higher than experimental ones. Vibrational spectroscopy constants and force constants are predicted by B3LYP. Vibrational frequencies, S-reduction quartic centrifugal distortion constants and rotational constants for several isotopomers of phosphaethene (13CH2PH, CD2PH, CH2PD, and CD2PD) are also calculated at the same levels. The isotopic effects of substitution by atom D are stronger than substitution by atom 13C for some rotational spectroscopic parameters.
Stochastic Investigation of Consolidation Process in Spatially Correlated Heterogeneous Soils
Authors: Chong Song-Hun
Published: September 2017

Soil consolidation as the dissipation of excess pore water pressure is mainly affected by the relative hydraulic conductivity among the layers. Geostatistical parameters such as the mean, the standard deviation, and the correlation length are physical indicators for each sedimentation and formation history. The effects of spatial variability on the excessive pore water pressure dissipation during consolidation process are investigated using numerical parametric studies, where multiple realizations are tested for selected hydraulic conductivity parameter using lognormal distribution. Numerical simulations show that the greater heterogeneity in hydraulic conductivity distribution applied, the longer time taken for the excess pore water pressure to dissipate, and the longer correlated variability encourages the greater variation in consolidation time. Such differences can be reduced significantly with the coupled drainage allowed by vertical drain method.
Feasibility of Equivalent Dipole Models for Electroencephalogram-Based Brain Computer Interfaces
Authors: Schimpf Paul
Published: September 2017

This article examines the localization errors of equivalent dipolar sources inverted from the surface electroencephalogram in order to determine the feasibility of using their location as classification parameters for non-invasive brain computer interfaces. Inverse localization errors are examined for two head models: a model represented by four concentric spheres and a realistic model based on medical imagery. It is shown that the spherical model results in localization ambiguity such that a number of dipolar sources, with different azimuths and varying orientations, provide a near match to the electroencephalogram of the best equivalent source. No such ambiguity exists for the elevation of inverted sources, indicating that for spherical head models, only the elevation of inverted sources (and not the azimuth) can be expected to provide meaningful classification parameters for brain–computer interfaces. In a realistic head model, all three parameters of the inverted source location are found to be reliable, providing a more robust set of parameters. In both cases, the residual error hypersurfaces demonstrate local minima, indicating that a search for the best-matching sources should be global. Source localization error vs. signal-to-noise ratio is also demonstrated for both head models.
The Usefulness of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in the Assessment of Early Kidney Transplant Function and Complications
Authors: Álvarez Rodríguez Sara , Hevia Palacios Vital , Sanz Mayayo Enrique , Gómez Dos Santos Victoria , Díez Nicolás Víctor , Sánchez Gallego María , Lorca Álvaro Javier , Burgos Revilla Francisco
Published: September 2017

Objectives: The routine diagnostic method for assessment of renal graft dysfunction is Doppler ultrasound. However, contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) may provide more information about parenchymal flow and vascular status of kidney allografts. The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of CEUS in the immediate post-transplant period, focusing on acute vascular complications. A brief review of available literature and a report of our initial experience is made. Material and methods: 15 kidney transplant (KT) cases with clinical suspicion of acute surgical complication were assessed with CEUS and conventional Doppler ultrasound (US). In addition, bibliographic review was conducted through PubMed, Embase, and ClinicalKey databases. Results: 10% of KT underwent CEUS, useful for detecting vascular complication or cortical necrosis in 4 (26%) and exclude them in 74%. Grafts with acute vascular complications have a delayed contrast-enhancement with peak intensity lower than normal kidneys. Perfusion defects can be clearly observed and the imaging of cortical necrosis is pathognomonic. Conclusions: CEUS is a useful tool in the characterization of renal graft dysfunction with special interest on acute vascular complications after renal transplant. It is a feasible technique for quantitative analysis of kidney perfusion, which provides information on renal tissue microcirculation and regional parenchymal flow. Exploration could be done by a urologist at the patient’s bedside while avoiding iodinated contrast.
Entropic Data Envelopment Analysis: A Diversification Approach for Portfolio Optimization
Authors: Rotela Junior Paulo , Rocha Luiz , Aquila Giancarlo , Balestrassi Pedro , Peruchi Rogério , Lacerda Liviam
Published: September 2017

Recently, different methods have been proposed for portfolio optimization and decision making on investment issues. This article aims to present a new method for portfolio formation based on Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and Entropy function. This new portfolio optimization method applies DEA in association with a model resulting from the insertion of the Entropy function directly into the optimization procedure. First, the DEA model was applied to perform a pre-selection of the assets. Then, assets given as efficient were submitted to the proposed model, resulting from the insertion of the Entropy function into the simplified Sharpe’s portfolio optimization model. As a result, an improved asset participation was provided in the portfolio. In the DEA model, several variables were evaluated and a low value of beta was achieved, guaranteeing greater robustness to the portfolio. Entropy function has provided not only greater diversity but also more feasible asset allocation. Additionally, the proposed method has obtained a better portfolio performance, measured by the Sharpe Ratio, in relation to the comparative methods.
Recall Performance for Content-Addressable Memory Using Adiabatic Quantum Optimization
Authors: Schrock Jonathan , McCaskey Alex , Hamilton Kathleen , Humble Travis , Imam Neena
Published: September 2017

A content-addressable memory (CAM) stores key-value associations such that the key is recalled by providing its associated value. While CAM recall is traditionally performed using recurrent neural network models, we show how to solve this problem using adiabatic quantum optimization. Our approach maps the recurrent neural network to a commercially available quantum processing unit by taking advantage of the common underlying Ising spin model. We then assess the accuracy of the quantum processor to store key-value associations by quantifying recall performance against an ensemble of problem sets. We observe that different learning rules from the neural network community influence recall accuracy but performance appears to be limited by potential noise in the processor. The strong connection established between quantum processors and neural network problems supports the growing intersection of these two ideas.
Patterns of Early Postfire Succession of Alpine, Subalpine and Lichen-Woodland Vegetation: 21 Years of Monitoring from Permanent Plots
Authors: Girard François , Payette Serge , Delwaide Ann
Published: September 2017

Field observations using chronosequences are helpful to study vegetation succession. This method allows to establish comparisons based on soil composition, stand structure, micro- and macrofossil remains from sites of different ages but on similar edaphic and topographic conditions. In the boreal forest, post-fire succession through time is triggered by climate, disturbance history (insect epidemics, fire and logging), latitude and altitude. The main objective of this research is to identify the main patterns of early post-fire succession, including similarities and differences in vegetation composition and attributes, of three contrasted ecosystems distributed along an altitudinal gradient. To do so, we have monitored the successional development of the alpine, subalpine and boreal lichen-woodland sites during the first 21 years (1991 to 2011) of post-fire sequence in eastern Canada 1991 to 2011. Each site was characterized by a different functional group that became established following fire. A rapid resurgence of ericaceous shrubs and lichens was observed in the lichen woodland and subalpine sites. Bryophyte and lichen species were not an important component of vegetation communities during the earlier stages of post-fire succession. For all three sites monitored, lichens were the last functional group to establish in the chronosequences. Herbs and mosses characterized the post-fire succession in alpine areas, the latter functional group established late in the chronosequence to cover >25% of the site after 15 years. Post-fire chronosequences in the three contrasted environments indicate that plant succession is a repetitive process often involving similar resilient plant assemblages.
Long Non-Coding RNAs Responsive to Witches’ Broom Disease in Paulownia tomentosa
Authors: Wang Zhe , Zhai Xiaoqiao , Cao Yabing , Dong Yanpeng , Fan Guoqiang
Published: September 2017

Paulownia witches’ broom (PaWB) disease caused by phytoplasmas is a fatal disease that leads to considerable economic losses. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been demonstrated to play critical regulatory roles in posttranscriptional and transcriptional regulation. However, lncRNAs and their functional roles remain poorly characterized in Paulownia. To identify lncRNAs and investigate their roles in the response to PaWB phytoplasmas, RNA sequencing was performed for healthy Paulownia tomentosa, PaWB-infected P. tomentosa, and for healthy and PaWB-infected P. tomentosa treated with 100 mg L−1 rifampicin. A total of 28,614 unique mRNAs and 3693 potential lncRNAs were identified. Comparisons between lncRNAs and coding genes indicated that lncRNAs tended to have shorter transcripts and fewer exon numbers, and displayed significant expression specificity. Based on our comparison scheme, 1063 PaWB-related mRNAs and 110 PaWB-related lncRNAs were identified; among them, 12 PaWB-related candidate target genes that were regulated by nine PaWB-related lncRNAs were characterized. This study provides the first catalog of lncRNAs expressed in Paulownia and gives a revealing insight into the molecular mechanism responsible for PaWB.
Isoform Sequencing Provides a More Comprehensive View of the Panax ginseng Transcriptome
Authors: Jo Ick-Hyun , Lee Jinsu , Hong Chi , Lee Dong , Bae Wonsil , Park Sin-Gi , Ahn Yong , Kim Young , Kim Jang , Lee Jung , Hyun Dong , Rhee Sung-Keun , Hong Chang , Bang Kyong , Ryu Hojin
Published: September 2017

Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) has been widely used for medicinal purposes and contains potent plant secondary metabolites, including ginsenosides. To obtain transcriptomic data that offers a more comprehensive view of functional genomics in P. ginseng, we generated genome-wide transcriptome data from four different P. ginseng tissues using PacBio isoform sequencing (Iso-Seq) technology. A total of 135,317 assembled transcripts were generated with an average length of 3.2 kb and high assembly completeness. Of those unigenes, 67.5% were predicted to be complete full-length (FL) open reading frames (ORFs) and exhibited a high gene annotation rate. Furthermore, we successfully identified unique full-length genes involved in triterpenoid saponin synthesis and plant hormonal signaling pathways, including auxin and cytokinin. Studies on the functional genomics of P. ginseng seedlings have confirmed the rapid upregulation of negative feed-back loops by auxin and cytokinin signaling cues. The conserved evolutionary mechanisms in the auxin and cytokinin canonical signaling pathways of P. ginseng are more complex than those in Arabidopsis thaliana. Our analysis also revealed a more detailed view of transcriptome-wide alternative isoforms for 88 genes. Finally, transposable elements (TEs) were also identified, suggesting transcriptional activity of TEs in P. ginseng. In conclusion, our results suggest that long-read, full-length or partial-unigene data with high-quality assemblies are invaluable resources as transcriptomic references in P. ginseng and can be used for comparative analyses in closely related medicinal plants.
Emerging Estrogenic Pollutants in the Aquatic Environment and Breast Cancer
Authors: Lecomte Sylvain , Habauzit Denis , Charlier Thierry , Pakdel Farzad
Published: September 2017

The number and amount of man-made chemicals present in the aquatic environment has increased considerably over the past 50 years. Among these contaminants, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) represent a significant proportion. This family of compounds interferes with normal hormonal processes through multiple molecular pathways. They represent a potential risk for human and wildlife as they are suspected to be involved in the development of diseases including, but not limited to, reprotoxicity, metabolic disorders, and cancers. More precisely, several studies have suggested that the increase of breast cancers in industrialized countries is linked to exposure to EDCs, particularly estrogen-like compounds. Estrogen receptors alpha (ERα) and beta (ERβ) are the two main transducers of estrogen action and therefore important targets for these estrogen-like endocrine disrupters. More than 70% of human breast cancers are ERα-positive and estrogen-dependent, and their development and growth are not only influenced by endogenous estrogens but also likely by environmental estrogen-like endocrine disrupters. It is, therefore, of major importance to characterize the potential estrogenic activity from contaminated surface water and identify the molecules responsible for the hormonal effects. This information will help us understand how environmental contaminants can potentially impact the development of breast cancer and allow us to fix a maximal limit to the concentration of estrogen-like compounds that should be found in the environment. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of emerging estrogen-like compounds in the environment, sum up studies demonstrating their direct or indirect interactions with ERs, and link their presence to the development of breast cancer. Finally, we emphasize the use of in vitro and in vivo methods based on the zebrafish model to identify and characterize environmental estrogens.
Public Health Network Structure and Collaboration Effectiveness during the 2015 MERS Outbreak in South Korea: An Institutional Collective Action Framework
Authors: Kim KyungWoo , Andrew Simon , Jung Kyujin
Published: September 2017

Following the 2015 Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) outbreak in South Korea, this research aims to examine the structural effect of public health network explaining collaboration effectiveness, which is defined as joint efforts to improve quality of service provision, cost savings, and coordination. We tested the bonding and bridging effects on collaboration effectiveness during the MERS outbreak response by utilizing an institutional collective action framework. The analysis results of 114 organizations responding during the crisis show a significant association between the bonding effect and the effectiveness of collaboration, as well as a positive association between risk communication in disseminating public health information and the effectiveness of collaboration.
Use of Principal Components Analysis and Kriging to Predict Groundwater-Sourced Rural Drinking Water Quality in Saskatchewan
Authors: McLeod Lianne , Bharadwaj Lalita , Epp Tasha , Waldner Cheryl
Published: September 2017

Groundwater drinking water supply surveillance data were accessed to summarize water quality delivered as public and private water supplies in southern Saskatchewan as part of an exposure assessment for epidemiologic analyses of associations between water quality and type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Arsenic in drinking water has been linked to a variety of chronic diseases and previous studies have identified multiple wells with arsenic above the drinking water standard of 0.01 mg/L; therefore, arsenic concentrations were of specific interest. Principal components analysis was applied to obtain principal component (PC) scores to summarize mixtures of correlated parameters identified as health standards and those identified as aesthetic objectives in the Saskatchewan Drinking Water Quality Standards and Objective. Ordinary, universal, and empirical Bayesian kriging were used to interpolate arsenic concentrations and PC scores in southern Saskatchewan, and the results were compared. Empirical Bayesian kriging performed best across all analyses, based on having the greatest number of variables for which the root mean square error was lowest. While all of the kriging methods appeared to underestimate high values of arsenic and PC scores, empirical Bayesian kriging was chosen to summarize large scale geographic trends in groundwater-sourced drinking water quality and assess exposure to mixtures of trace metals and ions.
Phylogenetic Analysis and Antimicrobial Profiles of Cultured Emerging Opportunistic Pathogens (Phyla Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria) Identified in Hot Springs
Authors: Jardine Jocelyn , Abia Akebe , Mavumengwana Vuyo , Ubomba-Jaswa Eunice
Published: September 2017

Hot spring water may harbour emerging waterborne opportunistic pathogens that can cause infections in humans. We have investigated the diversity and antimicrobial resistance of culturable emerging and opportunistic bacterial pathogens, in water and sediment of hot springs located in Limpopo, South Africa. Aerobic bacteria were cultured and identified using 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) gene sequencing. The presence of Legionella spp. was investigated using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Isolates were tested for resistance to ten antibiotics representing six different classes: β-lactam (carbenicillin), aminoglycosides (gentamycin, kanamycin, streptomycin), tetracycline, amphenicols (chloramphenicol, ceftriaxone), sulphonamides (co-trimoxazole) and quinolones (nalidixic acid, norfloxacin). Gram-positive Kocuria sp. and Arthrobacter sp. and gram-negative Cupriavidus sp., Ralstonia sp., Cronobacter sp., Tepidimonas sp., Hafnia sp. and Sphingomonas sp. were isolated, all recognised as emerging food-borne pathogens. Legionella spp. was not detected throughout the study. Isolates of Kocuria, Arthrobacter and Hafnia and an unknown species of the class Gammaproteobacteria were resistant to two antibiotics in different combinations of carbenicillin, ceftriaxone, nalidixic acid and chloramphenicol. Cronobacter sp. was sensitive to all ten antibiotics. This study suggests that hot springs are potential reservoirs for emerging opportunistic pathogens, including multiple antibiotic resistant strains, and highlights the presence of unknown populations of emerging and potential waterborne opportunistic pathogens in the environment.
Lactoferrin: A Natural Glycoprotein Involved in Iron and Inflammatory Homeostasis
Authors: Rosa Luigi , Cutone Antimo , Lepanto Maria , Paesano Rosalba , Valenti Piera
Published: September 2017

Human lactoferrin (hLf), an iron-binding multifunctional cationic glycoprotein secreted by exocrine glands and by neutrophils, is a key element of host defenses. HLf and bovine Lf (bLf), possessing high sequence homology and identical functions, inhibit bacterial growth and biofilm dependently from iron binding ability while, independently, bacterial adhesion to and the entry into cells. In infected/inflamed host cells, bLf exerts an anti-inflammatory activity against interleukin-6 (IL-6), thus up-regulating ferroportin (Fpn) and transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1) and down-regulating ferritin (Ftn), pivotal actors of iron and inflammatory homeostasis (IIH). Consequently, bLf inhibits intracellular iron overload, an unsafe condition enhancing in vivo susceptibility to infections, as well as anemia of inflammation (AI), re-establishing IIH. In pregnant women, affected by AI, bLf oral administration decreases IL-6 and increases hematological parameters. This surprising effect is unrelated to iron supplementation by bLf (80 μg instead of 1–2 mg/day), but to its role on IIH. AI is unrelated to the lack of iron, but to iron delocalization: cellular/tissue overload and blood deficiency. BLf cures AI by restoring iron from cells to blood through Fpn up-expression. Indeed, anti-inflammatory activity of oral and intravaginal bLf prevents preterm delivery. Promising bLf treatments can prevent/cure transitory inflammation/anemia/oral pathologies in athletes.
Cooperative Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access with Energy Harvesting
Authors: Guo Weidong , Wang Yunfeng
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we analyze the outage probability of an amplify-and-forward (AF) cooperative non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) model in multi-relay multiuser networks. In contrast to conventional cooperative networks, relays in the considered network have no embedded energy supply; they need to rely on the energy harvested from the signals broadcasted by the source for their cooperative NOMA transmission. Based on this structure, a new relay selection scheme is proposed, considering both channel state information (CSI) and battery status of relays. Assuming each relay has infinite or finite energy storage for accumulating energy, we use the infinite or finite Markov chain to capture the evolution of relay batteries and certain simplified assumptions to reduce computational complexity of the Markov chain analysis. The approximate closed-form expressions for the outage probability of the proposed scheme are derived therefrom. All theoretical results are validated by numerical simulations. The impacts of the system parameters, such as relay number, energy harvesting threshold and battery size, on the performance are extensively investigated.
Hole-Transporting Materials for Printable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Vivo Paola , Salunke Jagadish , Priimagi Arri
Published: September 2017

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) represent undoubtedly the most significant breakthrough in photovoltaic technology since the 1970s, with an increase in their power conversion efficiency from less than 5% to over 22% in just a few years. Hole-transporting materials (HTMs) are an essential building block of PSC architectures. Currently, 2,2’,7,7’-tetrakis-(N,N’-di-p-methoxyphenylamine)-9,9’-spirobifluorene), better known as spiro-OMeTAD, is the most widely-used HTM to obtain high-efficiency devices. However, it is a tremendously expensive material with mediocre hole carrier mobility. To ensure wide-scale application of PSC-based technologies, alternative HTMs are being proposed. Solution-processable HTMs are crucial to develop inexpensive, high-throughput and printable large-area PSCs. In this review, we present the most recent advances in the design and development of different types of HTMs, with a particular focus on mesoscopic PSCs. Finally, we outline possible future research directions for further optimization of the HTMs to achieve low-cost, stable and large-area PSCs.
Synthesis, In Vitro α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity and Molecular Docking Studies of Novel Benzothiazole-Triazole Derivatives
Authors: Gong Zipeng , Peng Yaping , Qiu Jie , Cao Anbai , Wang Guangcheng , Peng Zhiyun
Published: September 2017

Benzothiazole-triazole derivatives 6a–6s have been synthesized and characterized by 1HNMR and 13C-NMR. All synthetic compounds were screened for their in vitro α-glucosidase inhibitory activity by using Baker’s yeast α-glucosidase enzyme. The majority of compounds exhibited a varying degree of α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC50 values between 20.7 and 61.1 μM when compared with standard acarbose (IC50 = 817.38 μM). Among the series, compound 6s (IC50 = 20.7 μM) bearing a chlorine group at the 5-position of the benzothiazole ring and a tertbutyl group at the para position of the phenyl ring, was found to be the most active compound. Preliminary structure-activity relationships were established. Molecular docking studies were performed to predict the binding interaction of the compounds in the binding pocket of the enzyme.
Probing Gas Adsorption in Zeolites by Variable-Temperature IR Spectroscopy: An Overview of Current Research
Authors: Garrone Edoardo , Delgado Montserrat R. , Bonelli Barbara , Arean Carlos O.
Published: September 2017

The current state of the art in the application of variable-temperature IR (VTIR) spectroscopy to the study of (i) adsorption sites in zeolites, including dual cation sites; (ii) the structure of adsorption complexes and (iii) gas-solid interaction energy is reviewed. The main focus is placed on the potential use of zeolites for gas separation, purification and transport, but possible extension to the field of heterogeneous catalysis is also envisaged. A critical comparison with classical IR spectroscopy and adsorption calorimetry shows that the main merits of VTIR spectroscopy are (i) its ability to provide simultaneously the spectroscopic signature of the adsorption complex and the standard enthalpy change involved in the adsorption process; and (ii) the enhanced potential of VTIR to be site specific in favorable cases.
Effects of Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Synbiotics on Human Health
Authors: Markowiak Paulina , Śliżewska Katarzyna
Published: September 2017

The human gastrointestinal tract is colonised by a complex ecosystem of microorganisms. Intestinal bacteria are not only commensal, but they also undergo a synbiotic co-evolution along with their host. Beneficial intestinal bacteria have numerous and important functions, e.g., they produce various nutrients for their host, prevent infections caused by intestinal pathogens, and modulate a normal immunological response. Therefore, modification of the intestinal microbiota in order to achieve, restore, and maintain favourable balance in the ecosystem, and the activity of microorganisms present in the gastrointestinal tract is necessary for the improved health condition of the host. The introduction of probiotics, prebiotics, or synbiotics into human diet is favourable for the intestinal microbiota. They may be consumed in the form of raw vegetables and fruit, fermented pickles, or dairy products. Another source may be pharmaceutical formulas and functional food. This paper provides a review of available information and summarises the current knowledge on the effects of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics on human health. The mechanism of beneficial action of those substances is discussed, and verified study results proving their efficacy in human nutrition are presented.
Thermal Conductivity of Graphene-Polymer Composites: Mechanisms, Properties, and Applications
Authors: Li An , Zhang Cong , Zhang Yang-Fei
Published: September 2017

With the integration and miniaturization of electronic devices, thermal management has become a crucial issue that strongly affects their performance, reliability, and lifetime. One of the current interests in polymer-based composites is thermal conductive composites that dissipate the thermal energy produced by electronic, optoelectronic, and photonic devices and systems. Ultrahigh thermal conductivity makes graphene the most promising filler for thermal conductive composites. This article reviews the mechanisms of thermal conduction, the recent advances, and the influencing factors on graphene-polymer composites (GPC). In the end, we also discuss the applications of GPC in thermal engineering. This article summarizes the research on graphene-polymer thermal conductive composites in recent years and provides guidance on the preparation of composites with high thermal conductivity.
Mixed Rigid and Flexible Component Design for High-Performance Polyimide Films
Authors: Yu Xiaohui , Liang Weihua , Cao Jianhua , Wu Dayong
Published: September 2017

To develop the polyimide (PI) which is closely matched to the coefficient of the thermal expansion (CTE) of copper, a series of PIs are prepared from 5,4′-diamino-2-phenyl benzimidazole (DAPBI), 4,4′-diaminodiphenyl ether (ODA), and 3,3′,4,4′-benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride (BTDA) using a sequential copolymerization, blade coating, and thermal imidization process. The physical properties of the PIs are effectively regulated and optimized by adjusting the ratio of the rigid DAPBI and flexible ODA components. By increasing the DAPBI content, thermal stability, dimensional stability, and mechanical properties, the resultant polymer is enhanced. PI-80 exhibits an excellent comprehensive performance, a glass transition temperature of 370 °C, and a tensile strength of 210 MPa. Furthermore, the CTE as calculated in the range 50–250 °C is ca. 19 ppm/K, which is equal to that of copper. A highly dimensionally stable, curl-free, and high T-style peel strength (6.4 N/cm) of copper/PI laminate was obtained by casting the polyamic acid onto copper foil (13 μm) and thermally curing at 360 °C, which indicates that it has the potential to be applied as an electronic film for flexible displays and flexible printed circuit boards. A structural rationalization for these remarkable properties is also presented.
Effect of the Grafting Reaction of Aluminum Nitride on the Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on the Thermal Properties of the Poly(phenylene sulfide) Composites
Authors: Kim Myounguk , Park Sunmin , Park Jongshin
Published: September 2017

In this study, the PPS/MWCNTs/AlN composite was prepared with poly(phenylene sulfide) (PPS), covalent functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (fMWCNTs), and aluminum nitride (AlN) via melt-blending techniques. The AlN is a fascinating non-oxidizing ceramic material having the highest thermal conductivity among the ceramic materials. In order to introduce the functional groups on the surface of the AlN particles, a silane coupling agent was used as it is able to graft with the functional groups on the covalent functionalized MWCNTs. The silanization reaction of the AlN was confirmed qualitatively and quantitatively by FT-IR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), and XPS (X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy). The grafting reaction of the AlN particles on the MWCNTs was confirmed using UV–Vis (Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy), FE-SEM (Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy) and FE-TEM (Field-Emission Transmission Electron Microscopy) images. The grafting reaction was accomplished by observing the change of the transmittance, the morphology of the AlN particle bonded to the MWCNTs. For the morphological changes of the fractured surface of the PPS/MWCNTs/AlN composites by FE-SEM, the hybrid filler was homogeneously dispersed on the PPS matrix when the AlN particle was grafted on the MWCNTs. The homogeneous distribution of the hybrid filler acts as a heat transfer path, which led the higher thermal properties, such as thermal conductivity, thermal resistance, and melting temperature than those of not grafted MWCNTs.
Estimating High Resolution Daily Air Temperature Based on Remote Sensing Products and Climate Reanalysis Datasets over Glacierized Basins: A Case Study in the Langtang Valley, Nepal
Authors: Zhou Wang , Peng Bin , Shi Jiancheng , Wang Tianxing , Dhital Yam , Yao Ruzhen , Yu Yuechi , Lei Zhongteng , Zhao Rui
Published: September 2017

Near surface air temperature (Ta) is one of the key input parameters in land surface models and hydrological models as it affects most biogeophysical and biogeochemical processes of the earth surface system. For distributed hydrological modeling over glacierized basins, obtaining high resolution Ta forcing is one of the major challenges. In this study, we proposed a new high resolution daily Ta estimation scheme under both clear and cloudy sky conditions through integrating the moderate-resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) land surface temperature (LST) and China Meteorological Administration (CMA) land data assimilation system (CLDAS) reanalyzed daily Ta. Spatio-temporal continuous MODIS LST was reconstructed through the data interpolating empirical orthogonal functions (DINEOF) method. Multi-variable regression models were developed at CLDAS scale and then used to estimate Ta at MODIS scale. The new Ta estimation scheme was tested over the Langtang Valley, Nepal as a demonstrating case study. Observations from two automatic weather stations at Kyanging and Yala located in the Langtang Valley from 2012 to 2014 were used to validate the accuracy of Ta estimation. The RMSEs are 2.05, 1.88, and 3.63 K, and the biases are 0.42, −0.68 and −2.86 K for daily maximum, mean and minimum Ta, respectively, at the Kyanging station. At the Yala station, the RMSE values are 4.53, 2.68 and 2.36 K, and biases are 4.03, 1.96 and −0.35 K for the estimated daily maximum, mean and minimum Ta, respectively. Moreover, the proposed scheme can produce reasonable spatial distribution pattern of Ta at the Langtang Valley. Our results show the proposed Ta estimation scheme is promising for integration with distributed hydrological model for glacier melting simulation over glacierized basins.