bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Dynamic Roles of TGF-β Signalling in EBV-Associated Cancers
Authors: Velapasamy Sharmila , Dawson Christopher W. , Young Lawrence S. , Paterson Ian C. , Yap Lee Fah
Published: July 2018

The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signalling pathway plays a critical role in carcinogenesis. It has a biphasic action by initially suppressing tumorigenesis but promoting tumour progression in the later stages of disease. Consequently, the functional outcome of TGF-β signalling is strongly context-dependent and is influenced by various factors including cell, tissue and cancer type. Disruption of this pathway can be caused by various means, including genetic and environmental factors. A number of human viruses have been shown to modulate TGF-β signalling during tumorigenesis. In this review, we describe how this pathway is perturbed in Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated cancers and how EBV interferes with TGF-β signal transduction. The role of TGF-β in regulating the EBV life cycle in tumour cells is also discussed.
Lung Cancers: Molecular Characterization, Clonal Heterogeneity and Evolution, and Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Testa Ugo , Castelli Germana , Pelosi Elvira
Published: July 2018

Lung cancer causes the largest number of cancer-related deaths in the world. Most (85%) of lung cancers are classified as non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small-cell lung cancer (15%) (SCLC). The 5-year survival rate for NSCLC patients remains very low (about 16% at 5 years). The two predominant NSCLC histological phenotypes are adenocarcinoma (ADC) and squamous cell carcinoma (LSQCC). ADCs display several recurrent genetic alterations, including: KRAS, BRAF and EGFR mutations; recurrent mutations and amplifications of several oncogenes, including ERBB2, MET, FGFR1 and FGFR2; fusion oncogenes involving ALK, ROS1, Neuregulin1 (NRG1) and RET. In LSQCC recurrent mutations of TP53, FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, DDR2 and genes of the PI3K pathway have been detected, quantitative gene abnormalities of PTEN and CDKN2A. Developments in the characterization of lung cancer molecular abnormalities provided a strong rationale for new therapeutic options and for understanding the mechanisms of drug resistance. However, the complexity of lung cancer genomes is particularly high, as shown by deep-sequencing studies supporting the heterogeneity of lung tumors at cellular level, with sub-clones exhibiting different combinations of mutations. Molecular studies performed on lung tumors during treatment have shown the phenomenon of clonal evolution, thus supporting the occurrence of a temporal tumor heterogeneity.
Liver Immune Cells Release Type 1 Interferon Due to DNA Sensing and Amplify Liver Injury from Acetaminophen Overdose
Authors: Araujo Alan Moreira de , Antunes Maísa Mota , Mattos Matheus Silvério , Diniz Ariane Barros , Alvarenga Débora Moreira , Nakagaki Brenda Naemi , Carvalho Érika de , Lacerda Viviane Aparecida Souza , Carvalho-Gontijo Raquel , Goulart Jorge , Mafra Kassiana , Freitas-Lopes Maria Alice , Oliveira Hortência Maciel de Castro , Dutra Camila Miranda , David Bruna Araújo , Mendes Silva Aristóbolo , Quesniaux Valerie , Ryffel Bernhard , Oliveira Sergio Costa , Barber Glen N. , Mansur Daniel Santos , Cunha Thiago Mattar , Rezende Rafael Machado , Oliveira André Gustavo , Menezes Gustavo Batista
Published: July 2018

Hepatocytes may rupture after a drug overdose, and their intracellular contents act as damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) that lead to additional leukocyte infiltration, amplifying the original injury. Necrosis-derived DNA can be recognized as a DAMP, activating liver non-parenchymal cells (NPCs). We hypothesized that NPCs react to DNA by releasing interferon (IFN)-1, which amplifies acetaminophen (APAP)-triggered liver necrosis. We orally overdosed different knockout mouse strains to investigate the pathways involved in DNA-mediated amplification of APAP-induced necrosis. Mice were imaged under intravital confocal microscopy to estimate injury progression, and hepatocytes and liver NPCs were differentially isolated for gene expression assays. Flow cytometry (FACS) using a fluorescent reporter mouse estimated the interferon-beta production by liver leukocytes under different injury conditions. We also treated mice with DNase to investigate the role of necrosis DNA signaling in IFN-1 production. Hepatocytes released a large amount of DNA after APAP overdose, which was not primarily sensed by these cells. However, liver NPCs promptly sensed such environmental disturbances and activated several DNA sensing pathways. Liver NPCs synthesized and released IFN-1, which was associated with concomitant hepatocyte necrosis. Ablation of IFN-1 recognition in interferon α/β receptor (IFNAR−/−) mice delayed APAP-mediated liver necrosis and dampened IFN-1 sensing pathways. We demonstrated a novel loop involving DNA recognition by hepatic NPCs and additional IFN-1 mediated hepatocyte death.
Applied Pediatric Integrative Medicine: What We Can Learn from the Ancient Teachings of Sebastian Kneipp in a Kindergarten Setting
Authors: Eckert Marion , Anheyer Melanie
Published: July 2018

Pediatric integrative medicine focuses on the whole child and the environment in which the child grows up during the treatment of a child’s illness. Nowadays, many different treatment modalities are applied even in children, and doctors need to know about them and, ideally, be able to apply different approaches in the process of treating a child themselves. The program Pediatric Integrative Medicine in Residency (PIMR) already provides residents with several tools to provide this kind of service for the child. In our PIMR pilot program in Germany, we chose to diversify our knowledge about treatment and prevention options by visiting a Kneipp-certified kindergarten in Germany. The philosophy of Sebastian Kneipp focuses on five pillars of health, which incorporate aspects of prevention, self-awareness, self-responsibility, and consciousness of health by means of hydrotherapy, herbal medicine, exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle-medicine. These are being taught to the children during the early years they spend in kindergarten, and represent integral parts of integrative medicine. Integration of Kneipp-based health programs within a kindergarten setting can work well and provides an effective means of early prevention education in childhood.
Correlation between Computed Ion Hydration Properties and Experimental Values of Sugar Transfer through Nanofiltration and Ion Exchange Membranes in Presence of Electrolyte
Authors: Fuoco Alessio , Galier Sylvain , Roux-de Balmann Hélène , De Luca Giorgio
Published: July 2018

The widespread use of nanofiltration and electrodialysis membrane processes is slowed down by the difficulties in predicting the membrane performances for treating streams of variable ionic compositions. Correlations between ion hydration properties and solute transfer can help to overcome this drawback. This research aims to investigate the correlation between theoretically evaluated hydration properties of major ions in solution and experimental values of neutral organic solute fluxes. In particular, ion hydration energies, coordination and hydration number and the average ion-water distance of Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl− and SO42− were calculated at a high quantum mechanics level and compared with experimental sugar fluxes previously reported. The properties computed by simple and not computationally expensive models were validated with information from the literature. This work discusses the correlation between the hydration energies of ions and fluxes of three saccharides, measured through nanofiltration and ionic-exchange membranes. In nanofiltration, the sugar flux increases with the presence of ions of increasing hydration energy. Instead, inverse linear correlations were found between the hydration energy and the sugar fluxes through ion exchange membranes. Finally, an empirical model is proposed for a rough evaluation of the variation in sugar fluxes as function of hydration energy for the ion exchange membranes in diffusion experiments.
Application of Different Turbulence Models Simulating Wind Flow in Complex Terrain: A Case Study for the WindForS Test Site
Authors: Knaus Hermann , Hofsäß Martin , Rautenberg Alexander , Bange Jens
Published: July 2018

A model for the simulation of wind flow in complex terrain is presented based on the Reynolds averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations. For the description of turbulence, the standard k-ε, the renormalization group (RNG) k-ε, and a Reynolds stress turbulence model are applied. Additional terms are implemented in the momentum equations to describe stratification of the Earth’s atmosphere and to account for the Coriolis forces driven by the Earth’s rotation, as well as for the drag force due to forested canopy. Furthermore, turbulence production and dissipation terms are added to the turbulence equations for the two-equation, as well as for the Reynolds stress models, in order to capture different types of land use. The approaches for the turbulence models are verified by means of a homogeneous canopy test case with flat terrain and constant forest height. The validation of the models is performed by investigating the WindForS wind test site. The simulation results are compared with five-hole probe velocity measurements using multipurpose airborne sensor carrier (MASC) systems (unmanned small research aircraft)—UAV at different locations for the main wind regime. Additionally, Reynolds stresses measured with sonic anemometers at a meteorological wind mast at different heights are compared with simulation results using the Reynolds stress turbulence model.
The Enhanced Firefly Algorithm Based on Modified Exploitation and Exploration Mechanism
Authors: Sababha Moath , Zohdy Mohamed , Kafafy Maged
Published: July 2018

As a nature-inspired search algorithm, the Firefly algorithm (being a naturally outstanding search algorithm with few control parameters) may have a considerable influential performance. In this paper, we present a new firefly algorithm to address the parameter selection and adaptation strategy in the standard firefly algorithm. The proposed firefly algorithm introduces a modified exploration and exploitation mechanism, with adaptive randomness and absorption coefficients. The proposed method employs the adaptation of the randomness and absorption coefficients to be a function of time/iterations. Moreover, gray relational analysis advancing fireflies is used to allocate different information from appealing ones effectively. Standard benchmark functions are applied to verify the effects of these improvements and it is illustrated that, in most situations, the performance of the proposed firefly algorithm is superior to (or at least highly competitive with) the standard firefly algorithm, and state-of-the-art approaches in terms of performance.
Electro-Insulating Nanofluids Based on Synthetic Ester and TiO2 or C60 Nanoparticles in Power Transformer
Authors: Nadolny Zbigniew , Dombek Grzegorz
Published: July 2018

The article discusses thermal properties of synthetic ester admixed with nanoparticles. The analyzed thermal properties were: thermal conductivity λ, kinematic viscosity υ, density ρ, specific heat cp, and the thermal expansion factor β- all obtained by means of measurements. On the basis of these, the authors calculated the heat transfer factor α, which determines the ability of the liquid to heat transport. The authors used nanoparticles of fullerene C60 and titanium oxide TiO2. The analysis of the thermal properties was done for the temperatures of 25, 40, 60 and 80 °C. The authors analyzed the impact of nanoparticles C60 and TiO2 on thermal properties of synthetic ester. They proved that fullerene C60 in principle had no influence on heat transfer factor α of the ester, while titanium oxide TiO2 had some positive influence on the factor, the value of which increased about 1–3%.
Blueprints for Biosensors: Design, Limitations, and Applications
Authors: Carpenter Alexander C. , Paulsen Ian T. , Williams Thomas C.
Published: July 2018

Biosensors are enabling major advances in the field of analytics that are both facilitating and being facilitated by advances in synthetic biology. The ability of biosensors to rapidly and specifically detect a wide range of molecules makes them highly relevant to a range of industrial, medical, ecological, and scientific applications. Approaches to biosensor design are as diverse as their applications, with major biosensor classes including nucleic acids, proteins, and transcription factors. Each of these biosensor types has advantages and limitations based on the intended application, and the parameters that are required for optimal performance. Specifically, the choice of biosensor design must consider factors such as the ligand specificity, sensitivity, dynamic range, functional range, mode of output, time of activation, ease of use, and ease of engineering. This review discusses the rationale for designing the major classes of biosensor in the context of their limitations and assesses their suitability to different areas of biotechnological application.
Can Indigenous Knowledge Contribute to the Sustainability Management of the Aspiring Rio Coco Geopark, Nicaragua?
Authors: Pásková Martina
Published: July 2018

Indigenous knowledge in the UNESCO Global Geoparks represents an important emerging research topic. This study investigates aspects of the indigenous environmental knowledge in the southern part of the aspiring Rio Coco Geopark (Nicaragua) and its potential to enhance the sustainability management of geotourism and other geopark activities. The ethnographic method has been implemented in the form of semi-structured interviewing of the representatives of local households and through the application of participant observation. Related field research methods included documentation of the life history of Elders, focal group discussions, GPS mapping, photo-documentation, and problem tree analysis. The results indicate that the best-conserved indigenous environmental knowledge relates to the use of land, rocks, and plants, while the expression and transmission of the spiritual dimension of this traditional knowledge are declining. The key implications of the observed indigenous knowledge for the geopark decision-makers include the identified potential for its sustainability management, geotourism and geo-interpretation opportunities, as well as the conditions for the implementation of this potential.
Direct Assessment of Alcohol Consumption in Mental State Using Brain Computer Interfaces and Grammatical Evolution
Authors: Tzimourta Katerina D. , Tsoulos Ioannis , Bilero Thanasis , Tzallas Alexandros T. , Tsipouras Markos G. , Giannakeas Nikolaos
Published: July 2018

Alcohol consumption affects the function of the brain and long-term excessive alcohol intake can lead to severe brain disorders. Wearable electroencephalogram (EEG) recording devices combined with Brain Computer Interface (BCI) software may serve as a tool for alcohol-related brain wave assessment. In this paper, a method for mental state assessment from alcohol-related EEG recordings is proposed. EEG recordings are acquired with the Emotiv EPOC+, after consumption of three separate doses of alcohol. Data from the four stages (alcohol-free and three levels of doses) are processed using the OpenViBE platform. Spectral and statistical features are calculated, and Grammatical Evolution is employed for discrimination across four classes. Obtained results in terms of accuracy reached high levels (89.95%), which renders the proposed approach suitable for direct assessment of the driver’s mental state for road safety and accident avoidance in a potential in-vehicle smart system.
Special Issue: Left-Right Asymmetry and Cardiac Morphogenesis
Authors: Campione Marina , Brand Thomas
Published: July 2018

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Does Nasal Surgery Affect Right Ventricular Myocardial Functions at the Tissue Level in Patients with Nasal Septum Deviation?
Authors: Simsek Ziya , Simsek Eda
Published: July 2018

Objective: One of the most common causes of upper airway obstruction in adults is nasal septum deviation (NSD). The chronic hypoxia caused by this obstruction gradually leads to increased pulmonary vascular resistance, pulmonary hypertension (PHT), and right ventricular (RV) failure. The purpose of this study was to determine changes in RV myocardial functions at the tissue level before, and after surgery in patients with NSD. Subjects and Methods: Fifty-eight patients with symptoms of nasal obstruction and snoring were included in this observational study. Preoperative and postoperative third-month peripheral arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2), and RV systolic and diastolic functions measured by pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP), tissue Doppler parameters, and speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) were studied in these patients. Results: We observed a very significant decrease in PASP in the postoperative period (32.54 ± 5.24 mmHg vs. 24.22 ± 4.55 mmHg, p = 0.001). Postoperative SpO2 values, measured at room temperature also increased significantly (93.5 ± 0.82% vs. 95.6 ± 0.79%, p = 0.001). There was a significant improvement after surgery in RV systolic functions, represented by global longitudinal strain (GLS) (21.12 ± 2.07 vs. 22.49 ± 1.89, p = 0.013) and systolic global longitudinal strain rate (GLSRs) (1.30 ± 0.12 vs. 1.38 ± 0.13, p = 0.015). No significant differences in terms of RV diastolic function parameters were detected, including the RV early diastolic global longitudinal strain rate (GLSRe) (1.56 ± 0.21 vs. 1.55 ± 0.26, p = 0.86) and RV late diastolic global longitudinal strain rate (GLSRa) (0.88 ± 0.19; 0.89 ± 0.18, p = 0.76). Conclusion: This study was performed with an advanced technique capable of tissue level examination. The findings demonstrated significant improvement in both chronic hypoxia and RV systolic myocardial functions, measured at the tissue level after nasal surgery.
Heat Shock Protein 70 Gene Single Nucleotide Polymorphism and Diabetic Foot Ulcer. Is There Any Relationship?
Authors: Zubair Mohammad , Ahmad Jamal
Published: July 2018

Objective: The study aims to investigate the potential role of C2437T (Met493Thr) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of the heat shock protein (HSP) 70 in diabetic foot ulcer patients. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, SNP of the HSP70 hom gene, also called HSPA1L, was studied among diabetic patients with an ulcer (Group A: n = 50), diabetic patients without an ulcer (Group B: n = 50), and healthy subjects (Group C: n = 50). Results: There was a higher frequency of T/T genotype in group A (76%) as compared to group B (44%) and group C (14%). Moreover, the frequency of T allele was 7.3% in group A, 5.5% in group B, and 3.9% in group C. C allele frequency was 2.6%, 4.4%, and 6.1% in group A, group B, and group C, respectively. In group A, the odds ratio and risk ratio were 19-fold and 5-fold, respectively, for the HSP70 hom T/T homozygous gene compared to B (OR 19.45; RR 5.42; X2 38.8, p < 0.0001). Moreover, 4-fold and 1.75-fold ratios have been compared with group C (OR 4.03; RR 1.72; X2 10.6, p < 0.001). No significant difference in genotype was observed in group B and group C. Conclusions: There is a significant and positive association of hspHSP70 hom polymorphism restricted to T allele in homozygous and heterozygous states among diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) patients.
Prototyping and Validation of MEMS Accelerometers for Structural Health Monitoring—The Case Study of the Pietratagliata Cable-Stayed Bridge
Authors: Bedon Chiara , Bergamo Enrico , Izzi Matteo , Noè Salvatore
Published: July 2018

In recent years, thanks to the simple and yet efficient design, Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) accelerometers have proven to offer a suitable solution for Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) in civil engineering applications. Such devices are typically characterised by high portability and durability, as well as limited cost, hence resulting in ideal tools for applications in buildings and infrastructure. In this paper, original self-made MEMS sensor prototypes are presented and validated on the basis of preliminary laboratory tests (shaking table experiments and noise level measurements). Based on the well promising preliminary outcomes, their possible application for the dynamic identification of existing, full-scale structural assemblies is then discussed, giving evidence of their potential via comparative calculations towards past literature results, inclusive of both on-site, Experimental Modal Analysis (EMA) and Finite Element Analytical estimations (FEA). The full-scale experimental validation of MEMS accelerometers, in particular, is performed using, as a case study, the cable-stayed bridge in Pietratagliata (Italy). Dynamic results summarised in the paper demonstrate the high capability of MEMS accelerometers, with evidence of rather stable and reliable predictions, and suggest their feasibility and potential for SHM purposes.
Enhanced Cycling Stability of LiCuxMn1.95−xSi0.05O4 Cathode Material Obtained by Solid-State Method
Authors: Zhao Hongyuan , Li Fang , Bai Xiuzhi , Wu Tingting , Wang Zhankui , Li Yongfeng , Su Jianxiu
Published: July 2018

The LiCuxMn1.95−xSi0.05O4 (x = 0, 0.02, 0.05, 0.08) samples have been obtained by a simple solid-state method. XRD and SEM characterization results indicate that the Cu-Si co-doped spinels retain the inherent structure of LiMn2O4 and possess uniform particle size distribution. Electrochemical tests show that the optimal Cu-doping amount produces an obvious improvement effect on the cycling stability of LiMn1.95Si0.05O4. When cycled at 0.5 C, the optimal LiCu0.05Mn1.90Si0.05O4 sample exhibits an initial capacity of 127.3 mAh g−1 with excellent retention of 95.7% after 200 cycles. Moreover, when the cycling rate climbs to 10 C, the LiCu0.05Mn1.90Si0.05O4 sample exhibits 82.3 mAh g−1 with satisfactory cycling performance. In particular, when cycled at 55 °C, this co-doped sample can show an outstanding retention of 94.0% after 100 cycles, whiles the LiMn1.95Si0.05O4 only exhibits low retention of 79.1%. Such impressive performance shows that the addition of copper ions in the Si-doped spinel effectively remedy the shortcomings of the single Si-doping strategy and the Cu-Si co-doped spinel can show excellent cycling stability.
Improvement in Thermomechanical Reliability of Low Cost Sn-Based BGA Interconnects by Cr Addition
Authors: Bang Junghwan , Yu Dong-Yurl , Yang Ming , Ko Yong-Ho , Yoon Jeong-Won , Nishikawa Hiroshi , Lee Chang-Woo
Published: July 2018

The exemption of Pb-bearing automobile electronics in the End of Life Vehicle (ELV) directive has recently expired, bring an urgent need to find Pb-free alloys that can maintain good performance under high-temperature and vibration conditions for automobile application. In this study, a new lead-free solder, Sn-0.7Cu-0.2Cr (wt.%) alloy, was developed. To evaluate the thermomechanical reliability of the new solder alloy in automobile electronics, a thermal shock test was performed. The results show that the presence of Cr in solder inhibits the growth of interfacial Cu3Sn layer and the formation of Kirkendall voids, which effectively improves the joint reliability under intense thermal shock condition compared with the commercial SAC305 and SC07 solders. Specifically, the shear strength of the Sn-0.7Cu-0.2Cr/Cu solder joints was higher by 23% and 44% than that of SAC305 and SC07 solder joints after 2000 cycles of thermal shock at 1 m/s shear speed.
Random Error Analysis of MEMS Gyroscope Based on an Improved DAVAR Algorithm
Authors: Song Jinlong , Shi Zhiyong , Wang Lvhua , Wang Hailiang
Published: July 2018

In view that traditional dynamic Allan variance (DAVAR) method is difficult to make a good balance between dynamic tracking capabilities and the confidence of the estimation. And the reason is the use of a rectangular window with the fixed window length to intercept the original signal. So an improved dynamic Allan variance method was proposed. Compared with the traditional Allan variance method, this method can adjust the window length of the rectangular window adaptively. The data in the beginning and terminal interval was extended with the inverted mirror extension method to improve the utilization rate of the interval data. And the sliding kurtosis contribution coefficient and kurtosis were introduced to adjust the length of the rectangular window by sensing the content of shock signal in terminal interval. The method analyzed the window length change factor in different stable conditions and adjusted the rectangular window’s window length according to the kurtosis, sliding kurtosis contribution coefficient. The test results show that the more the kurtosis stability threshold was close to 3, the stronger the dynamic tracking ability of DAVAR would be. But the kurtosis stability threshold was too close to 3, there was a misjudgement in kurtosis analysis of signal stability, resulting in distortion of DAVAR analysis results. When using the improved DAVAR method, the kurtosis stability threshold can be close to 3 to improve the tracking ability and the estimation confidence in stable interval. Therefore, it solved the problem that the dynamic Allan variance tracking ability and confidence level were difficult to take into account, and also solved the problem of misjudgement in the stability analysis of kurtosis.
Fault Zone Evolution and Development of a Structural and Hydrological Barrier: The Quartz Breccia in the Kiggavik Area (Nunavut, Canada) and Its Control on Uranium Mineralization
Authors: Grare Alexis , Lacombe Olivier , Mercadier Julien , Benedicto Antonio , Guilcher Marie , Trave Anna , Ledru Patrick , Robbins John
Published: July 2018

In the Kiggavik area (Nunavut, Canada), major fault zones along, or close to, where uranium deposits are found are often associated with occurrence of thick quartz breccia (QB) bodies. These bodies formed in an early stage (~1750 Ma) of the long-lasting tectonic history of the Archean basement, and of the Proterozoic Thelon basin. The main characteristics of the QB are addressed in this study; through field work, macro and microscopic observations, cathodoluminescence microscopy, trace elements, and oxygen isotopic signatures of the quartz forming the QB. Faults formed earlier during syn- to post-orogenic rifting (1850–1750 Ma) were subsequently reactivated, and underwent cycles of cataclasis, pervasive silicification, hydraulic brecciation, and quartz recrystallization. This was synchronous with the circulation of meteoric fluids mixing with Si-rich magmatic-derived fluids at depth, and were coeval with the emplacement of the Kivalliq igneous suite at 1750 Ma. These processes led to the emplacement of up to 30 m thick QB, which behaved as a mechanically strong, transverse hydraulic barrier that localized later fracturing, and compartmentalized/channelized vertical flow of uranium-bearing fluids after the deposition of the Thelon Basin (post 1750 Ma). The development and locations of QB control the location of uranium mineralization in the Kiggavik area.
Particle Size Distribution Effects on the Strength Characteristic of Cemented Paste Backfill
Authors: Wu Jiangyu , Feng Meimei , Chen Zhanqing , Mao Xianbiao , Han Guansheng , Wang Yiming
Published: July 2018

It is of great significance, for economic, environmental and security reasons, to investigate the strength characteristic of underground cemented paste backfill (CPB). Consequently, an ultrasonic test, uniaxial and triaxial compression experiment, and acoustic emission (AE) monitoring were carried out on CPB, for which the particles satisfied Talbot gradation. The homogeneity of CPB specimens was evaluated by ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV). The stress–strain behavior and AE characteristic of CPB specimens under different Talbot indices and confining pressures were investigated. The effects of the particle size distribution and the confining pressure on the peak strength of CPB were analyzed. The strength parameter model of CPB under the coupled influence of the particle size distribution and the confining pressure was constructed based on the Mohr–Coulomb strength criterion. The results show that the peak strength of CPB is positively linear with confining pressure, however, the relationship between its strength parameters and the Talbot index can be characterized by a quadratic polynomial function. This suggests that there is an optimal gradation of particles reflected in the maximum strength of CPB.
(10.4) Face of Ordered and Disordered Dolomite, MgCa(CO3)2: A Computational Study to Reveal the Growth Mechanism
Authors: Bruno Marco , Bittarello Erica
Published: July 2018

In this study, the stability of the (10.4) face of dolomite was systematically investigated. The surface energies at 0 K of the different (10.4) surfaces resulting from the cut of both ordered and disordered bulk structures were determined and compared, to establish how different atomic configurations (surface terminations) can affect the stability of the investigated face. To study the thermodynamic behavior of a surface, a 2D periodic slab model and the ab initio CRYSTAL code were adopted. The surface energies of the (10.4) faces of calcite and magnesite were also calculated in order to compare them with those of the different terminations of the (10.4) face of dolomite. Our calculations showed that the bulk of the dolomite crystal must have an ordered structure to reach the minimum of the energy, whereas the (10.4) surface is more stable when its structure is disordered. A growth model of the (10.4) face has been proposed: the peculiarity of this model consists in the existence of some disordered layers forming at the interface crystal/solution, which arrange in an ordered structure once covered by others disordered layers resulting by the spiral steps propagation.
A Fragment-Based Approach for the Development of G-Quadruplex Ligands: Role of the Amidoxime Moiety
Authors: Tassinari Martina , Lena Alberto , Butovskaya Elena , Pirota Valentina , Nadai Matteo , Freccero Mauro , Doria Filippo , Richter Sara N.
Published: July 2018

G-quadruplex (G4) nucleic acid structures have been reported to be involved in several human pathologies, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders and infectious diseases; however, G4 targeting compounds still need implementation in terms of drug-like properties and selectivity in order to reach the clinical use. So far, G4 ligands have been mainly identified through high-throughput screening methods or design of molecules with pre-set features. Here, we describe the development of new heterocyclic ligands through a fragment-based drug discovery (FBDD) approach. The ligands were designed against the major G4 present in the long terminal repeat (LTR) promoter region of the human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1), the stabilization of which has been shown to suppress viral gene expression and replication. Our method is based on the generation of molecular fragment small libraries, screened against the target to further elaborate them into lead compounds. We screened 150 small molecules, composed by structurally and chemically different fragments, selected from commercially available and in-house compounds; synthetic elaboration yielded several G4 ligands and two final G4 binders, both embedding an amidoxime moiety; one of these two compounds showed preferential binding for the HIV-1 LTR G4. This work presents the discovery of a novel potential pharmacophore and highlights the possibility to apply a fragment-based approach to develop G4 ligands with unexpected chemical features.
Optimization of Lignin-Based Biocatalyst Production from Pine Sawdust and Wheat Straw
Authors: Escalante Froylán M.E. , Carranza-Hernández Alejandra , García-Zamora Adelina , Aguilar-Garnica Efrén
Published: July 2018

Pine sawdust and wheat straw are abundant lignocellulosic wastes that have been recently converted into bioethanol under a biochemical platform scheme whose main waste is lignin. Lignin can be transformed into a wide variety of high added-value products, including its functionalization as a catalyst. A key step in the synthesis of a lignin-based catalyst is the sulfonation reaction, whose operating conditions, namely, H2SO4 to lignin ratio (mL/g), temperature and time, have been arbitrarily chosen. In this contribution, an optimization methodology (i.e., Box-Behnken) is applied in order to found the operating conditions during the sulfonation reaction that maximizes the total acid sites density of lignin-based catalysts from pine sawdust and wheat straw. The optimization results show that the time in sulfonation reactions can be significantly reduced, compared to those previously reported, without affecting the performance of both catalysts in esterification reactions. These results could be further considered for energy and costs reduction purposes during the conceptual design engineering of the sulfonation reaction.
Technology for Remote Health Monitoring in an Older Population: A Role for Mobile Devices
Authors: Dupuis Kate , Tsotsos Lia E.
Published: July 2018

The impact of an aging population on healthcare and the sustainability of our healthcare system are pressing issues in contemporary society. Technology has the potential to address these challenges, alleviating pressures on the healthcare system and empowering individuals to have greater control over monitoring their own health. Importantly, mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets can allow older adults to have “on the go” access to health-related information. This paper explores mobile health apps that enable older adults and those who care for them to track health-related factors such as body readings and medication adherence, and it serves as a review of the literature on the usability and acceptance of mobile health apps in an older population.
Vitamin C to Improve Organ Dysfunction in Cardiac Surgery Patients—Review and Pragmatic Approach
Authors: Hill Aileen , Wendt Sebastian , Benstoem Carina , Neubauer Christina , Meybohm Patrick , Langlois Pascal , Adhikari Neill KJ , Heyland Daren K. , Stoppe Christian
Published: July 2018

The pleiotropic biochemical and antioxidant functions of vitamin C have sparked recent interest in its application in intensive care. Vitamin C protects important organ systems (cardiovascular, neurologic and renal systems) during inflammation and oxidative stress. It also influences coagulation and inflammation; its application might prevent organ damage. The current evidence of vitamin C’s effect on pathophysiological reactions during various acute stress events (such as sepsis, shock, trauma, burn and ischemia-reperfusion injury) questions whether the application of vitamin C might be especially beneficial for cardiac surgery patients who are routinely exposed to ischemia/reperfusion and subsequent inflammation, systematically affecting different organ systems. This review covers current knowledge about the role of vitamin C in cardiac surgery patients with focus on its influence on organ dysfunctions. The relationships between vitamin C and clinical health outcomes are reviewed with special emphasis on its application in cardiac surgery. Additionally, this review pragmatically discusses evidence on the administration of vitamin C in every day clinical practice, tackling the issues of safety, monitoring, dosage, and appropriate application strategy.
Feasibility of Reviewing Digital Food Images for Dietary Assessment among Nutrition Professionals
Authors: Ainaa Fatehah Ayob , Poh Bee Koon , Nik Shanita Safii , Wong Jyh Eiin
Published: July 2018

Validity of image-assisted and image-based dietary assessment methods relies on the accuracy of portion size estimation based on food images. However, little is known on the ability of nutrition professionals in assessing dietary intake based on digital food images. This study aims to examine the ability of nutrition professionals in reviewing food images with regard to food item identification and portion size estimation. Thirty-eight nutritionists, dietitians, and nutrition researchers participated in this study. Through an online questionnaire, participants’ accuracy in identifying food items and estimating portion sizes of two sets of digital food images presenting a meal on a plate (Image PL) and in a bowl (Image BW) were tested. Participants reported higher accuracy in interpreting Image BW compared to Image PL, both in terms of accuracy in food identification (75.3 ± 17.6 vs. 68.9 ± 17.1%) and percentage difference in portion size estimation (44.3 ± 16.6 vs. 47.6 ± 21.2%). Weight of raw vegetables was significantly underestimated (−45.1 ± 22.8% vs. −21.2 ± 37.4%), while drink was significantly overestimated (40.1 ± 45.8% vs. 26.1 ± 32.2) in both images. Less than one-third of the participants estimated portion size within 10% of actual weight for Image PL (23.7%) and Image BW (32.3%). Accuracy of nutrition professionals in reviewing food images could be further improved with training on better perception of portion sizes from images.
Breakfast in Canada: Prevalence of Consumption, Contribution to Nutrient and Food Group Intakes, and Variability across Tertiles of Daily Diet Quality. A Study from the International Breakfast Research Initiative
Authors: Barr Susan I. , Vatanparast Hassan , Smith Jessica
Published: July 2018

This study used 24-h recall data from the nationally representative 2015 Canadian Community Health Survey-Nutrition to assess breakfast intake among Canadians aged 6–12 years (n = 2331), 13–17 years (n = 2026), 18–54 years (n = 7651), and 55+ years (n = 6279). Overall, 90% consumed breakfast; breakfast consumers reported higher intakes of energy and key nutrients and had higher daily diet quality scores assessed using the Nutrient-Rich Foods Index 9.3 (NRF 9.3). Among breakfast consumers (n = 16,484), breakfast contributed a mean of 389 kcal (1628 kJ) and 21.6% of daily energy intake. Relative to its contribution to energy, breakfast contributed higher intakes of fruit, whole grains, and fluid milk, as well as associated nutrients (e.g., carbohydrate, total sugars, fiber, calcium, and vitamin D). Among breakfast consumers classified by daily dietary quality (NRF 9.3 score), energy intake at breakfast did not differ across tertiles for either children or adults. However, intakes of key nutrients, fiber, and total sugars increased across tertiles, and among adults, intakes of saturated fat and sodium decreased. Mean intakes of fruit, whole grains, and fluid milk also increased across tertiles, as did the proportion of individuals consuming these foods; higher fruit and milk intakes may explain higher sugar intakes as diet quality increased. Promoting the consumption of these foods at breakfast could contribute to improved diet quality among Canadians.
An Evidence-Based Procedure for Self-Management of Medication in Hospital: Development and Validation of the SelfMED Procedure
Authors: Vanwesemael Toke , Dilles Tinne , Van Rompaey Bart , Boussery Koen
Published: July 2018

Aim: To develop and validate a procedure for self-management of medication by patients whilst in hospital. Background: Self-management of medication allows patients to self-manage their medication in a controlled and supportive hospital environment. This practice is encouraged worldwide, yet an evidence-based procedure to evaluate the ability of patients to self-manage and to monitor and support self-management are absent. Methods: The evidence-based procedure for self-management of medication (SelfMED) was developed based on previous conducted qualitative research, literature review, and the current regulation. It was validated by healthcare providers and a multidisciplinary expert meeting. Questions within the procedure that could be biased were tested for inter-rater reliability. Results: First, the SelfMED procedure was developed. It consists of a stepped assessment of patient’s competencies for self-management performed by healthcare providers and the patient. When self-management is allowed, the SelfMED monitoring tool monitors the patient’s intake of self-managed medication. Secondly, the procedure was revised for clarity, appropriateness, and face validity by five healthcare providers and a multidisciplinary expert meeting, resulting in the final version. Thirdly, three questions from the final version were tested for interrater reliability. Cohen’s Kappa showed moderate to strong levels of agreement. Conclusions: The developed SelfMED procedure provides an evidence based approach of facilitating self-management of medication. The content of the procedure was found valid to evaluate the patient’s ability to self-manage and to monitor them while self-managing.
Systemic Risk and Insurance Regulation †
Authors: Gómez Fabiana , Ponce Jorge
Published: July 2018

This paper provides a rationale for the macro-prudential regulation of insurance companies, where capital requirements increase in their contribution to systemic risk. In the absence of systemic risk, the formal model in this paper predicts that optimal regulation may be implemented by capital regulation (similar to that observed in practice, e.g., Solvency II ) and by actuarially fair technical reserve. However, these instruments are not sufficient when insurance companies are exposed to systemic risk: prudential regulation should also add a systemic component to capital requirements that is non-decreasing in the firm’s exposure to systemic risk. Implementing the optimal policy implies separating insurance firms into two categories according to their exposure to systemic risk: those with relatively low exposure should be eligible for bailouts, while those with high exposure should not benefit from public support if a systemic event occurs.
Early Adaptations to a Two-Week Uphill Run Sprint Interval Training and Cycle Sprint Interval Training
Authors: Kavaliauskas Mykolas , Jakeman John , Babraj John
Published: July 2018

This study sought to compare early physiological and performance adaptations between a two-week cycle sprint interval training (SIT) and uphill run sprint training (UST) programs. Seventeen recreationally active adult males (age = 28 ± 5 years; body mass (BM) = 78 ± 9 kg) were assigned to either a control (n = 5), SIT (n = 6), or UST (n = 6) group. A discrete group of participants (n = 6, age = 33 ± 6 years, and body mass = 80 ± 9 kg) completed both training protocols to determine acute physiological responses. Intervention groups completed either a run or cycle peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) test (intervention type dependent) prior to and following two weeks of training. Training comprised of three sessions per week of 4 × 30-s “all-out” sprints with a four-minute active recovery between bouts on a cycle ergometer against 7.5% of body mass in the SIT group and on a 10% slope in the UST group. The VO2peak values remained unchanged in both training groups, but time-to-exhaustion (TTE) was significantly increased only in the UST group (pre—495 ± 40 s, post—551 ± 15 s; p = 0.014) and not in the SIT group (pre—613 ± 130 s, post—634 ± 118 s, p = 0.07). Ventilatory threshold (VT) was significantly increased in both training groups (SIT group: pre—1.94 ± 0.45 L·min−1, post—2.23 ± 0.42 L·min−1; p < 0.005, UST group: pre—2.04 ± 0.40 L·min−1, post—2.33 ± 0.34 L·min−1, p < 0.005). These results indicate that UST may be an effective alternative to SIT in healthy individuals.
How Corporate Sharewashing Practices Undermine Consumer Trust
Authors: Hawlitschek Florian , Stofberg Nicole , Teubner Timm , Tu Patrick , Weinhardt Christof
Published: July 2018

Sharewashing describes a platform’s act of misleading consumers by purposely portraying an image of social and ecological principles while the platform’s business model does not necessarily involve them. Drawing on Corporate Social Responsibility and Green Marketing literature, we propose and evaluate a research model for investigating the impact of sharewashing perceptions on consumer trust. Based on survey data from 145 millennials, our results reveal a significant negative effect of sharewashing perceptions on consumer trust, partially mediated by perceptions of risk and confusion. We discuss our findings in view of their practical and strategic relevance to sharing economy platform operators.
Implementation of Integrated Project Delivery in Quebec’s Procurement for Public Infrastructure: A Comparative and Relational Perspective
Authors: Jobidon Gabriel , Lemieux Pierre , Beauregard Robert
Published: July 2018

Province of Quebec (Canada) is in the process of implementing integrated project delivery (IPD) in its procurement process for public infrastructure to more effectively and efficiently achieve functional, environmental, and economic objectives. This paper analyzes the procurement legislation, regulations, and context of three jurisdictions through a comparative law approach and under the light of Macneil’s relational contract theory. It is found that Quebec’s procurement process has transactional features that should be counterbalanced, in the context of IPD implementation, by focusing on relational values, whether at the macro or personal level. These relational mechanisms should help legislators and public bodies establishing and operationalizing a viable and relational context of professional services and construction works procurement for IPD projects.
Leadership Lessons from Machiavelli Enhanced with Strategic Orchestration
Authors: Ibarretxe Maite
Published: July 2018

The purpose of this article is to explore the fascinating similarities that can be found between the Renaissance era and nowadays. In both moments in time, the ways of doing of the era before, were no longer valid for the new challenges the world was having at that moment, and completely new solutions were required. There is an analysis of the Renaissance and Machiavelli and his leadership learnings about appearance, influence, honor and self-ambition, gloria or public recognition, structure and flexibility and about chaos as a trigger for change. Study on modern leaders like Barack Obama and Steve Jobs shows that there are important similarities between their leadership styles and Machiavelli’s learnings. However, where Machiavelli leaned on hierarchical power, modern leaders need to enhance his learnings with an orchestrated leadership style rather based upon Influence than power, more suitable for today’s environment. Nowadays, like at the beginning of the Renaissance, we appear to be again in a chaos situation marking a turning point to a new era, the transition to which demands increased flexibility carefully balanced with existing and new structures, until a new status-quo is created.
Enhancement of learning through field study
Authors: Kandamby Tesila
Published: July 2018

Learning is more concerned in engineering education as students need to do deep learning to understand the engineering principles for practice. Engineering is a practicing profession. Therefore, providing learning environment is required for the subjects of engineering disciplines to enable students to learn in depth. By knowing this phenomenon, field study was conducted as a group study for the civil engineering subject of building construction allowing students to learn and gain knowledge by observing construction activities in construction projects in addition to the lectures in usual classroom. At the end of the study, it is found that field study is useful for learning and students acquire knowledge and understand the application of theory at real situation. In addition, students develop skills for working as a team by organizing their works, sharing knowledge, discussing with relevant technical personnel at work site and achieving the targets within the given time frame.  It is realized that teacher’s role is vital to make the study successful in the ways of organizing field study, conducting discussion classes to assist students, monitoring the progress and giving the feedback of the students’ performance during the course of field study producing excellent results while satisfying the objectives of both teacher and students.