bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Continuum Modeling and Simulation in Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Sanz-Herrera Jose A. , Reina-Romo Esther
Published: September 2019

Bone tissue engineering is currently a mature methodology from a research perspective. Moreover, modeling and simulation of involved processes and phenomena in BTE have been proved in a number of papers to be an excellent assessment tool in the stages of design and proof of concept through in-vivo or in-vitro experimentation. In this paper, a review of the most relevant contributions in modeling and simulation, in silico, in BTE applications is conducted. The most popular in silico simulations in BTE are classified into: (i) Mechanics modeling and scaffold design, (ii) transport and flow modeling, and (iii) modeling of physical phenomena. The paper is restricted to the review of the numerical implementation and simulation of continuum theories applied to different processes in BTE, such that molecular dynamics or discrete approaches are out of the scope of the paper. Two main conclusions are drawn at the end of the paper: First, the great potential and advantages that in silico simulation offers in BTE, and second, the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to further validate numerical models developed in BTE.
Optimizing Single-Shot Coherent Power-Spectrum Scattering Imaging Adaptively by Tuning Feedback Coefficient for Practical Exposure Conditions
Authors: Wang Wei , Guo Yanfang , Tang Wusheng , Yi Wenjun , Li Mengzhu , Zhu Mengjun , Qi Junli , Zhu Jubo , Li Xiujian
Published: September 2019

With only one piece of the power-spectrum pattern, the single-shot coherent power-spectrum imaging can provide a clear object image for real-time applications even if the object is hidden by opaque scattering media, in which the feedback coefficient β value for the reconstruction with least retrievals and fastest speed has to be pre-estimated through time-consuming iterative loops. Here we report a method for estimating the optimal β value from the captured raw power-spectrum images adaptively to optimize the single-shot coherent power-spectrum imaging for practical exposure conditions. The results demonstrate that, based on exposure level analysis of the captured raw power-spectrum images even of underexposure, moderate exposure, and overexposure cases, the β value could be quickly determined with a compact expression for the algorithm to achieve clear reconstruction output efficiently. The proposed method helps to push ahead of the coherent diffractive imaging devices for real-time imaging through turbid mediums in Artificial Intelligence (AI), driving assistance, and flight assistance applications.
Forced Circulation of Nitrogen Gas for Accelerated and Eco-Friendly Cooling of Metallic Parts
Authors: Park Zu Seong , Kim Jeong , Woo Young Yun , Lee Habeom , Kim Ji Hoon , Moon Young Hoon
Published: September 2019

As nitrogen is nonreactive and non-flammable, it can provide a quick and simple medium of cooling and environment protection. One disadvantage of nitrogen cooling is its lower heat transfer coefficient than water. Despite its lower cooling capacity, nitrogen cooling can produce cleaner products, thereby eliminating the need to wash the parts and dispose of the contaminated water. In this study, an innovative nitrogen cooling system was developed for an accelerated and eco-friendly cooling of metallic parts. The dry nitrogen gas, transported via the nozzle of a cryogenic liquid nitrogen tank, is passed into the cooling chamber and exchanges heat with the workpiece. The heated nitrogen gas is forcibly transported to the chiller, where the heat is reduced, and the cooled gas is circulated again. The performance of this nitrogen cooling system has been evaluated with cooling experiments of sintered tungsten heavy alloys. The nitrogen-cooled product shows a clean surface with improved mechanical properties. Furthermore, nitrogen induces less distortion compared to water cooling, thus reducing the post-machining costs.
A Comprehensive Examination of Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy and Its Association with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Patient Outcomes
Authors: Bond Leila , Ganguly Paulamy , Khamankar Nishad , Mallet Nolan , Bowen Gloria , Green Braden , Mitchell Cassie S.
Published: September 2019

There is literature discord regarding the impact of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG), or “feeding tube”, on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) outcomes. We assess one of the largest retrospective ALS cohorts to date (278 PEG users, 679 non-users). Kruskal–Wallis and Kaplan–Meier analysis compared cohort medians and survival duration trends. A meta-analysis determined the aggregate associative effect of PEG on survival duration by combining primary results with 7 published studies. Primary results (p < 0.001) and meta-analysis (p < 0.05) showed PEG usage is associated with an overall significant increase in ALS survival duration, regardless of onset type. Percent predicted forced vital capacity (FVC %predict) ≥50 at PEG insertion significantly increases survival duration (p < 0.001); FVC %predict ≥60 has the largest associative benefit (+6.7 months, p < 0.05). Time elapsed from ALS onset until PEG placement is not predictive (p > 0.05). ALSFRS-R survey assessment illustrates PEG usage does not slow functional ALS pathology (p > 0.05), but does stabilize weight and/or body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.05). Observed clinical impression of mood (CIM), was not impacted by PEG usage (p > 0.05). Overall results support PEG as a palliative intervention for ALS patients with ≥50 FVC %predict at PEG insertion.
Immunotherapy with Monoclonal Antibodies in Lung Cancer of Mice: Oxidative Stress and Other Biological Events
Authors: Tang Jun , Ramis-Cabrer Daniel , Wang Xuejie , Barreiro Esther
Published: September 2019

Background: Lung cancer (LC) is a major leading cause of death worldwide. Immunomodulators that target several immune mechanisms have proven to reduce tumor burden in experimental models through induction of the immune microenvironment. We hypothesized that other biological mechanisms may also favor tumor burden reduction in lung cancer-bearing mice treated with immunomodulators. Methods: Tumor weight, area, T cells and tumor growth (immunohistochemistry), oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and signaling (NF-κB and sirtuin-1) markers were analyzed (immunoblotting) in subcutaneous tumor of BALB/c mice injected with LP07 adenocarcinoma cells treated with monoclonal antibodies (CD-137, CTLA-4, PD-1, and CD-19, N = 9/group) and non-treated control animals. Results: Compared to non-treated cancer mice, in tumors of monoclonal-treated animals, tumor area and weight and ki-67 were significantly reduced, while T cell counts, oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, activated p65, and sirtuin-1 markers were increased. Conclusions: Immunomodulators elicited a reduction in tumor burden (reduced tumor size and weight) through decreased tumor proliferation and increased oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and signaling markers, which may have interfered with the immune profile of the tumor microenvironment. Future research should be devoted to the elucidation of the specific contribution of each biological mechanism to the reduced tumor burden.
Manoalide Preferentially Provides Antiproliferation of Oral Cancer Cells by Oxidative Stress-Mediated Apoptosis and DNA Damage
Authors: Wang Hui-Ru , Tang Jen-Yang , Wang Yen-Yun , Farooqi Ammad Ahmad , Yen Ching-Yu , Yuan Shyng-Shiou F. , Huang Hurng-Wern , Chang Hsueh-Wei
Published: September 2019

Marine sponge-derived manoalide has a potent anti-inflammatory effect, but its potential application as an anti-cancer drug has not yet been extensively investigated. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the antiproliferative effects of manoalide on oral cancer cells. MTS assay at 24 h showed that manoalide inhibited the proliferation of six types of oral cancer cell lines (SCC9, HSC3, OC2, OECM-1, Ca9-22, and CAL 27) but did not affect the proliferation of normal oral cell line (human gingival fibroblasts (HGF-1)). Manoalide also inhibits the ATP production from 3D sphere formation of Ca9-22 and CAL 27 cells. Mechanically, manoalide induces subG1 accumulation in oral cancer cells. Manoalide also induces more annexin V expression in oral cancer Ca9-22 and CAL 27 cells than that of HGF-1 cells. Manoalide induces activation of caspase 3 (Cas 3), which is a hallmark of apoptosis in oral cancer cells, Ca9-22 and CAL 27. Inhibitors of Cas 8 and Cas 9 suppress manoalide-induced Cas 3 activation. Manoalide induces higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) productions in Ca9-22 and CAL 27 cells than in HGF-1 cells. This oxidative stress induction by manoalide is further supported by mitochondrial superoxide (MitoSOX) production and mitochondrial membrane potential (MitoMP) destruction in oral cancer cells. Subsequently, manoalide-induced oxidative stress leads to DNA damages, such as γH2AX and 8-oxo-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG), in oral cancer cells. Effects, such as enhanced antiproliferation, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and DNA damage, in manoalide-treated oral cancer cells were suppressed by inhibitors of oxidative stress or apoptosis, or both, such as N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and Z-VAD-FMK (Z-VAD). Moreover, mitochondria-targeted superoxide inhibitor MitoTEMPO suppresses manoalide-induced MitoSOX generation and γH2AX/8-oxodG DNA damages. This study validates the preferential antiproliferation effect of manoalide and explores the oxidative stress-dependent mechanisms in anti-oral cancer treatment.
The Autocrine FGF/FGFR System in both Skin and Uveal Melanoma: FGF Trapping as a Possible Therapeutic Approach
Authors: Rezzola Sara , Ronca Roberto , Loda Alessandra , Nawaz Mohd Imtiaz , Tobia Chiara , Paganini Giuseppe , Maccarinelli Federica , Giacomini Arianna , Semeraro Francesco , Mor Marco , Presta Marco
Published: September 2019

Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) play non-redundant autocrine/paracrine functions in various human cancers. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data mining indicates that high levels of FGF and/or FGF receptor (FGFR) expression are associated with reduced overall survival, chromosome 3 monosomy and BAP1 mutation in human uveal melanoma (UM), pointing to the FGF/FGFR system as a target for UM treatment. Here, we investigated the impact of different FGF trapping approaches on the tumorigenic and liver metastatic activity of liver metastasis-derived murine melanoma B16-LS9 cells that, similar to human UM, are characterized by a distinctive hepatic tropism. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that the overexpression of the natural FGF trap inhibitor long-pentraxin 3 (PTX3) inhibits the oncogenic activity of B16-LS9 cells. In addition, B16-LS9 cells showed a reduced tumor growth and liver metastatic activity when grafted in PTX3-overexpressing transgenic mice. The efficacy of the FGF trapping approach was confirmed by the capacity of the PTX3-derived pan-FGF trap small molecule NSC12 to inhibit B16-LS9 cell growth in vitro, in a zebrafish embryo orthotopic tumor model and in an experimental model of liver metastasis. Possible translational implications for these observations were provided by the capacity of NSC12 to inhibit FGF signaling and cell proliferation in human UM Mel285, Mel270, 92.1, and OMM2.3 cells. In addition, NSC12 caused caspase-3 activation and PARP cleavage followed by apoptotic cell death as well as β-catenin degradation and inhibition of UM cell migration. Together, our findings indicate that FGF trapping may represent a novel therapeutic strategy in UM.
Clinical Significance of SERPINA1 Gene and Its Encoded Alpha1-antitrypsin Protein in NSCLC
Authors: Ercetin Evrim , Richtmann Sarah , Delgado Beatriz Martinez , Gomez-Mariano Gema , Wrenger Sabine , Korenbaum Elena , Liu Bin , DeLuca David , Kühnel Mark P. , Jonigk Danny , Yuskaeva Kadriya , Warth Arne , Muley Thomas , Winter Hauke , Meister Michael , Welte Tobias , Janciauskiene Sabina , Schneider Marc A.
Published: September 2019

Abstract: High expression of SERPINA1 gene encoding acute phase protein, alpha1-antitrypsin (AAT), is associated with various tumors. We sought to examine the significance of SERPINA1 and AAT protein in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients and NSCLC cell lines. Tumor and adjacent non-tumor lung tissues and serum samples from 351 NSCLC patients were analyzed for SERPINA1 expression and AAT protein levels. We also studied the impact of SERPINA1 expression and AAT protein on H1975 and H661 cell behavior, in vitro. Lower SERPINA1 expression in tumor but higher in adjacent non-tumor lung tissues (n = 351, p = 0.016) as well as higher serum levels of AAT protein (n = 170, p = 0.033) were associated with worse survival rates. Specifically, in NSCLC stage III patients, higher blood AAT levels (>2.66 mg/mL) correlated with a poor survival (p = 0.002). Intriguingly, levels of serum AAT do not correlate with levels of C-reactive protein, neutrophils-to-leukocyte ratio, and do not correlate with SERPINA1 expression or AAT staining in the tumor tissue. Additional experiments in vitro revealed that external AAT and/or overexpressed SERPINA1 gene significantly improve cancer cell migration, colony formation and resistance to apoptosis. SERPINA1 gene and AAT protein play an active role in the pathogenesis of lung cancer and not just reflect inflammatory reaction related to cancer development.
Sugars’ Quantifications Using a Potentiometric Electronic Tongue with Cross-Selective Sensors: Influence of an Ionic Background
Authors: da Costa Arca Vinicius , Peres António M. , Machado Adélio A. S. C. , Bona Evandro , Dias Luís G.
Published: September 2019

Glucose, fructose and sucrose are sugars with known physiological effects, and their consumption has impact on the human health, also having an important effect on food sensory attributes. The analytical methods routinely used for identification and quantification of sugars in foods, like liquid chromatography and visible spectrophotometry have several disadvantages, like longer analysis times, high consumption of chemicals and the need for pretreatments of samples. To overcome these drawbacks, in this work, a potentiometric electronic tongue built with two identical multi-sensor systems of 20 cross-selectivity polymeric sensors, coupled with multivariate calibration with feature selection (a simulated annealing algorithm) was applied to quantify glucose, fructose and sucrose, and the total content of sugars as well. Standard solutions of ternary mixtures of the three sugars were used for multivariate calibration purposes, according to an orthogonal experimental design (multilevel fractional factorial design) with or without ionic background (KCl solution). The quantitative models’ predictive performance was evaluated by cross-validation with K-folds (internal validation) using selected data for training (selected with the K-means algorithm) and by external validation using test data. Overall, satisfactory predictive quantifications were achieved for all sugars and total sugar content based on subsets comprising 16 or 17 sensors. The test data allowed us to compare models’ predictions values and the respective sugar experimental values, showing slopes varying between 0.95 and 1.03, intercept values statistically equal to zero (p-value ≥ 0.05) and determination coefficients equal to or greater than 0.986. No significant differences were found between the predictive performances for the quantification of sugars using synthetic solutions with or without KCl (1 mol L−1), although the adjustment of the ionic background allowed a better homogenization of the solution’s matrix and probably contributed to an enhanced confidence in the analytical work across all of the calibration working range.
A Multinodular Mass of Abdominal Splenosis: Case Report of Uncommon Images of a Rare Disease
Authors: Matsubayashi Hiroyuki , Bando Etsuro , Kagawa Hiroyasu , Sasaki Keiko , Ishiwatari Hirotoshi , Ono Hiroyuki
Published: September 2019

Splenosis is a rare disease which typically forms single or multiple round masses. A 45-year-old male was referred for investigation of an abdominal mass. He had a history of splenic injury from a traffic accident at age 19. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed a well-enhanced, multi-nodular mass lesion, 3.5 cm in size, located below the stomach. An endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration biopsy (EUS-FNAB) for the mass was inconclusive. A surgery was performed, and pathology of the resected mass confirmed splenosis. Clinicians must bear in mind the possibility of occurrence of splenosis after splenic trauma and its image variations.
A Potential Application of Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging Combined with Photodynamic Diagnosis for the Detection of Bladder Carcinoma in Situ: Toward the Future ‘MRI-PDD Fusion TURBT’
Authors: Miyake Makito , Maesaka Fumisato , Marugami Nagaaki , Miyamoto Tatsuki , Nakai Yasushi , Ohnishi Sayuri , Gotoh Daisuke , Owari Takuya , Hori Shunta , Morizawa Yosuke , Itami Yoshitaka , Inoue Takeshi , Anai Satoshi , Torimoto Kazumasa , Fujii Tomomi , Shimada Keiji , Tanaka Nobumichi , Fujimoto Kiyohide
Published: September 2019

The detection of carcinoma in situ (CIS) is essential for the management of high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancers. Here, we focused on dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) combined with photodynamic diagnosis (PDD) for the detection of CIS. A total of 45 patients undergoing pre-surgical DCE-MRI and PDD-assisted endoscopic surgery accompanied by biopsies of the eight segmentations were analyzed. Immunohistochemical analysis of the biopsies revealed hypervascularity of CIS lesions, a cause of strong submucosal contrast-enhancement. It was found that 56 (16.2%) of 344 biopsies had pathologically proven CIS. In the DCE-MRI, the overall sensitivity and specificity for detecting CIS were 48.2% and 81.9%, respectively. We set out two different combinations of PDD and DCE-MRI for detecting CIS. Combination 1 was positive when either the PDD or DCE-MRI were test-positive. Combination 2 was positive only when both PDD and DCE-MRI were test-positive. The overall sensitivity of combinations 1 and 2 were 75.0% and 37.5%, respectively (McNemar test, vs PDD alone; p = 0.041 and p < 0.001, respectively). However, the specificity was 74.0% and 91.7%, respectively (vs PDD alone; both p < 0.001). Our future goal is to establish ‘MRI-PDD fusion transurethral resction of the bladder tumor (TURBT), which could be an effective therapeutic and diagnostic approach in the clinical management of high-risk disease.
A Potential Information Capacity Index for Link Prediction of Complex Networks Based on the Cannikin Law
Authors: Li Xing , Liu Shuxin , Chen Hongchang , Wang Kai
Published: September 2019

Recently, a number of similarity-based methods have been proposed for link prediction of complex networks. Among these indices, the resource-allocation-based prediction methods perform very well considering the amount of resources in the information transmission process between nodes. However, they ignore the information channels and their information capacity in information transmission process between two endpoints. Motivated by the Cannikin Law, the definition of information capacity is proposed to quantify the information transmission capability between any two nodes. Then, based on the information capacity, a potential information capacity (PIC) index is proposed for link prediction. Empirical study on 15 datasets has shown that the PIC index we proposed can achieve a good performance, compared with eight mainstream baselines.
Innovation and The Evolution of the Economic Web
Authors: Kauffman Stuart
Published: September 2019

Fifty thousand years ago the global economy may have had a diversity of a few thousand goods and services, including fire, unifacial stone scrapers, hides, and so forth [...]
CPEC’s Utility and Concerns under OBOR Initiative: A Pakistani Industrial Perspective
Authors: Abbas Ghulam , Liu Zhiming , Wasti Shahbaz Hassan , Munir Uzma , Abbas Muhammad
Published: September 2019

This study emphasizes the utility and concerns of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on various sectors of Pakistan’s economy through the lens of real stakeholders. Specifically, this study focuses on three aspects: the beneficiary of CPEC; CPEC’s effects on employment, GDP, foreign direct investment and personal income in Pakistan; and the concerns regarding Pakistan’s sovereignty. A qualitative research approach was adopted to explore the objectives of the study. To analyze these aspect, in-depth interviews from different Pakistan’s business community are conducted. Our study finds that CPEC will not only beneficial for both Pakistan and China, but also for other neighbouring countries in the region. To validate these findings, interviewee’s data is analyzed in the light of semantic analysis approach. Our study illustrates that, the development along the corridor will produce employment opportunities that will raise the income level of a common person of Pakistan, and the industrial growth in Pakistan through CPEC will have a positive effect on the country’s GDP. Our study also concludes that CPEC doesn’t pose any threat to Pakistan’s sovereignty. The stakeholders of CPEC are concerned over the intentions of Pakistan government; that need to be clarified. This research study also suggests the maximum benefits out of this mega venture.
Comparison of CNN Applications for RSSI-Based Fingerprint Indoor Localization
Authors: Sinha Rashmi Sharan , Hwang Seung-Hoon
Published: September 2019

The intelligent use of deep learning (DL) techniques can assist in overcoming noise and uncertainty during fingerprinting-based localization. With the rise in the available computational power on mobile devices, it is now possible to employ DL techniques, such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), for smartphones. In this paper, we introduce a CNN model based on received signal strength indicator (RSSI) fingerprint datasets and compare it with different CNN application models, such as AlexNet, ResNet, ZFNet, Inception v3, and MobileNet v2, for indoor localization. The experimental results show that the proposed CNN model can achieve a test accuracy of 94.45% and an average location error as low as 1.44 m. Therefore, our CNN model outperforms conventional CNN applications for RSSI-based indoor positioning.
Microencapsulation of Paraffin with Poly (Urea Methacrylate) Shell for Solar Water Heater
Authors: Su Weiguang , Li Yilin , Zhou Tongyu , Darkwa Jo , Kokogiannakis Georgios , Li Zhao
Published: September 2019

Previous research has demonstred that microencapsulated phase change materials (MEPCMs) could significantly increase the energy storage density of solar thermal energy storage (TES) systems. Compared with traditional phase change materials (PCMs), MEPCMs have many advantages since they can limit their exposure to the surrounding environment, enlarge the heat transfer area, and maintain the volume as the phase change occurs. In this study, a new MEPCM for solar TES systems is developed by encapsulation of paraffin wax with poly (urea formaldehyde) (PUF). The experimental results revealed that agglomeration of MEPCM particles occurred during the encapsulation process which affected the uniformity of the particle size distribution profile when sodium dodecyl sulfate was used as an emulsifier. The differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) analysis results showed that the melting temperatures were slightly increased by 0.14–0.72 °C after encapsulation. A thermogravimetric (TG) test showed that the sample weight decreased while the weight loss starting temperature was slightly increased after encapsulation. Overall, the sample UF-2, fabricated with the binary emulsifiers of Brij 35 and Brij 30 and 5% nucleating agent, resulted in good particle dispersion and shell integrity, higher core material content and encapsulation efficiency, as well as improved thermal stability.
District Heating Network Demand Prediction Using a Physics-Based Energy Model with a Bayesian Approach for Parameter Calibration
Authors: Chen Si , Friedrich Daniel , Yu Zhibin , Yu James
Published: September 2019

Heat demand of a district heating network needs to be accurately predicted and managed to reduce consumption and emissions. Detailed thermal parameters are essential for predictions using physics-based energy models, but they are not always available or sufficiently accurate. To reduce the simulation time in calibration and the dependency of accurate data of buildings, this paper develops a prediction approach using a building energy model whose parameters are calibrated by Bayesian-based calibration method to match the recorded data of monthly heat demand. In the proposed calibration approach, an emulator is established to evaluate the untested values of thermal parameters using Bayesian method, and then use the evaluation results to search for the most suitable parameters value. The designed approach greatly accelerates the calibration speed. The method is used to calibrate a single parameter and multiple parameters of the building thermal energy models for a district heating network. After it has been verified with measured data, the developed calibration method is used to calibrate parameters of building energy models. The output of the calibrated model can predict the hourly building heat demand in district heating networks.
Factors Affecting the Uptake of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in the European Union
Authors: Christidis Panayotis , Focas Caralampo
Published: September 2019

This paper explores the factors affecting the uptake of hybrid and electric vehicles in the European Union (EU) using data from two extensive cross-sectional surveys. Each survey consists of 26,500 responses to a questionnaire that combines socio-economic and behavioral aspects. The share of respondents across the EU stating that they would certainly or probably consider purchasing a hybrid or a battery-powered electric vehicle (H&EV) in the near future rose from 32% in 2014 to 37.4% in 2018. There is, however, a high variability among EU member states, as well as across different socio-economic groups. Propensity is highly correlated with income, educational attainment, and urbanization level. In order to address the high degree of collinearity, we applied a machine learning classification model to analyze and explain the interaction between the variables that affected the expressed propensity to purchase such a vehicle. The findings highlight something largely missing from the literature, namely that local conditions and regional variation are a major, if not decisive, factor regarding purchasing choices. Seen from a policy perspective, this conclusion may provide guidance regarding how to support the take up of H&EVs through measures that are tailored to the specific needs at the local level.
Optimal Thermal Insulation Thicknesses of External Walls Based on Economic and Ecological Heating Cost
Authors: Dylewski Robert
Published: September 2019

The present study introduces the concept of ecological cost of heating modeled on the economic cost of heating. A method of determining these costs is also proposed. This method allows for an analytical description of the ecological as well as economic net present value of a thermal insulation investment. Consequently, it is possible to determine the optimal values for ecological reasons of the heat transfer coefficient of the building external wall and the thickness of thermal insulation. The present study uses life-cycle assessment (LCA) analysis to determine the environmental impact of thermal insulation materials used to insulate the external vertical wall and to determine the environmental impact of thermal energy production in the energy phase of the building’s life cycle. Various variants characteristic of Polish conditions were studied. Different types of construction materials of the wall, types of heat sources, thermal insulation materials and climate zones occurring in Poland were considered. For all analysed variants, the obtained thermal insulation thickness, optimum for ecological reasons, was much larger than the optimum for economic reasons. Even at the thickness of thermal insulation optimum for economic reasons, the investment was profitable for ecological reasons, i.e., a reduction in environmental load was obtained as a result of the thermal insulation investment. On the basis of the conducted study, it can be concluded that it is preferable to use thermal insulation thicknesses larger than required by current regulations and larger than optimum for economic reasons. The ecological benefits of thermal insulation investments are then significantly greater, with not much smaller economic benefits.
Comparative Review of Corporate Social Responsibility of Energy Utilities and Sustainable Energy Development Trends in the Baltic States
Authors: Lu Jintao , Ren Licheng , Yao Siqin , Qiao Jiayuan , Strielkowski Wadim , Streimikis Justas
Published: September 2019

This paper aims at developing the theoretical framework for linking the CSR of energy utilities with sustainable energy development achievements and at applying this framework in selected countries. The main issues of CSR relevant to the energy sector are discussed, and a comparative analysis of CSR reports of energy utilities and sustainable energy development trends in the Baltic States (Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia) is performed based on the developed framework. There are three main interlinked sustainable energy development targets: increase in energy efficiency, the use of renewable energy sources, and GHG emission reduction. The significance of CSR in the energy sector is underlined based on the literature review, and the state policies to promote CSR in the energy sector are discussed and critically assessed based on the case studies of three Baltic States. The CSR practices of energy utilities of the Baltic States were assessed and compared with sustainable energy development achievements in these countries, based on the analysis of sustainable energy development trends. Estonia achieved the best results in approaching all sustainable energy development targets and was ranked with the highest scores in CSR ranking among the Baltic States, followed by Lithuania. The results of the case studies demonstrate that the Baltic countries have achieved different results in sustainable energy development progress, and the role of energy utilities and their corporate sustainability practices may have huge impacts on the achievement of sustainable energy development targets.
Aligning Urban Policy with Climate Action in the Global South: Are Brazilian Cities Considering Climate Emergency in Local Planning Practice?
Authors: Sotto Debora , Philippi Arlindo , Yigitcanlar Tan , Kamruzzaman Md
Published: September 2019

Climate change is the biggest global threat of our time. As a signatory nation of the Paris Agreement, Brazil has made a climate action commitment, and expressed its nationally determined contribution to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 37%. The Brazilian population is highly urban, and Brazilian cities are mostly responsible for greenhouse gas emissions, and the worst effects of global warming are experienced in cities. Hence, the fulfillment of the Brazilian climate commitments depends on the active engagement of municipalities. Nevertheless, the Brazilian national government does not monitor local climate actions, and it is not clear how local urban policy is aligned with climate action. In order to bridge this gap, this study tackles the question of: “Are, and if yes how, cities considering the climate emergency in their local planning mechanisms?” This question is investigated by placing five major Brazilian cities under the microscope. The methodological approach includes literature review and applied qualitative analysis to scrutinize how climate issues and actions are factored in urban planning regulations to verify if and to what extent local policies contribute to the fulfillment of the Brazilian nationally determined contribution, and sustainable development goals. The results disclose that investigated cities have adequately incorporated climatic issues in their urban planning mechanisms. However, policy concentrates more on adaptation rather than mitigation, and policy implementation yet to be realized.
The Song Dynasty Shipwreck Monitoring and Analysis Using Acoustic Emission Technique
Authors: Zhao Qi , Zhao Dong , Zhao Jian , Fei Lihua
Published: September 2019

The monitoring of acoustic emission (AE) has allowed tracing of the damage in wooden cultural objects exposed to variations in ambient relative humidity (RH). A year-long on-site AE monitoring of the Song Dynasty shipwreck confirmed the usefulness of the technique in tracing climate-induced damage in wood. New coupling material is tested to make it conform to the conservation rules which is non-corrosive to monitoring objects and a reversible operation. As sensitive parameter of wood damage caused by variations RH, the accumulated ringing counting tends to increase with the increase of daily fluctuation of RH (DFRH). In addition, the damage of wooden cultural objects during shrinkage is stronger than that during swelling. The relationship between the probability of AE activity and the daily DFRH is established and it is determined that the daily variation of RH for long-term protection of the Song Dynasty shipwreck should be controlled within 4%, and an early warning will be given if it exceeds 10%.
An Approach for Modeling and Quantifying Traffic-Induced Processes and Changes in Forest Road Aggregate Particle-Size Distributions
Authors: Rhee Hakjun , Fridley James , Chung Woodam , Page-Dumroese Deborah
Published: September 2019

Forest road aggregate changes due to traffic. The physical processes that cause these aggregate changes need to be understood for more effective road management that can help reduce maintenance costs and efforts, and negative environmental impacts of forest roads. This study modeled three processes that could change the particle size distribution (PSD) of forest road aggregate: crushing (breaking down the surfacing material), subgrade mixing (moving upward of fine-grained, roadbed sediment), and sweeping (migration of loose aggregate particles to the shoulder and roadside by tire action). There are two types of sweeping: sweeping-out (dislodging large-size particles from tire tracks) and sweeping-in (accumulating large-size particles near the roadside and shoulder). Our study modeled the expected traffic-induced processes based on theoretical concepts and literature to examine how these processes change forest road aggregate PSD. Then the modeled results were compared with the observed PSDs from cross-sectional locations where traffic-induced processes likely occurred. Based on these comparisons, we enhanced the modeling and inferred how much the crushing, subgrade mixing, and sweeping-in processes changed the PSDs, but could not infer the sweeping-out process due to the difficulty in separating the sweeping-out from crushing. This study demonstrates that the traffic-induced processes could be modeled and quantified using the following assumptions: crushing was estimated by assuming a half logarithmic normal distribution with a mean of the crushed particle diameter and higher crushing rates for large-size particles; subgrade mixing was estimated by assuming the move-in of fine-grained subgrade soils from the road bed; and sweeping-in was estimated by assuming the move-in of large-size particles with a logarithmic normal distribution. Our modeling approach can offer insights on how traffic-induced processes affect road aggregate under various road and traffic conditions. This information can be useful in developing cost-effective road maintenance strategies and implementation plans.
A Framework for the Detection of Search and Rescue Patterns Using Shapelet Classification
Authors: Kapadais Konstantinos , Varlamis Iraklis , Sardianos Christos , Tserpes Konstantinos
Published: September 2019

The problem of unmanned supervision of maritime areas has attracted the interest of researchers for the last few years, mainly thanks to the advances in vessel monitoring that the Automatic Identification System (AIS) has brought. Several frameworks and algorithms have been proposed for the management of vessel trajectory data, which focus on data compression, data clustering, classification and visualization, offering a wide variety of solutions from vessel monitoring to automatic detection of complex events. This work builds on our previous work in the topic of automatic detection of Search and Rescue (SAR) missions, by developing and evaluating a methodology for classifying the trajectories of vessels that possibly participate in such missions. The proposed solution takes advantage of a synthetic trajectory generator and a classifier that combines a genetic algorithm (GENDIS) for the extraction of informative shapelets from training data and a transformation to the shapelets’ feature space. Using the generator and several SAR patterns that are formally described in naval operations bibliography, it generates a synthetic dataset that is used to train the classifier. Evaluation on both synthetic and real data has very promising results and helped us to identify vessel SAR maneuvers without putting any effort into manual annotation.
Looking for Local Adaptation: Convergent Microevolution in Aleppo Pine (Pinus halepensis)
Authors: Ruiz Daniels Rose , Taylor Richard S. , González-Martínez Santiago C. , Vendramin Giovanni G. , Fady Bruno , Oddou-Muratorio Sylvie , Piotti Andrea , Simioni Guillaume , Grivet Delphine , Beaumont Mark A.
Published: September 2019

Finding outlier loci underlying local adaptation is challenging and is best approached by suitable sampling design and rigorous method selection. In this study, we aimed to detect outlier loci (single nucleotide polymorphisms, SNPs) at the local scale by using Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis), a drought resistant conifer that has colonized many habitats in the Mediterranean Basin, as the model species. We used a nested sampling approach that considered replicated altitudinal gradients for three contrasting sites. We genotyped samples at 294 SNPs located in genomic regions selected to maximize outlier detection. We then applied three different statistical methodologies—Two Bayesian outlier methods and one latent factor principal component method—To identify outlier loci. No SNP was an outlier for all three methods, while eight SNPs were detected by at least two methods and 17 were detected only by one method. From the intersection of outlier SNPs, only one presented an allelic frequency pattern associated with the elevational gradient across the three sites. In a context of multiple populations under similar selective pressures, our results underline the need for careful examination of outliers detected in genomic scans before considering them as candidates for convergent adaptation.
Prevalence, Type, and Molecular Spectrum of NF1 Mutations in Patients with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 and Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Pinna Valentina , Daniele Paola , Calcagni Giulio , Mariniello Lucio , Criscione Roberta , Giardina Chiara , Lepri Francesca Romana , Hozhabri Hossein , Alberico Angela , Cavone Stefania , Morella Annunziata Tina , Mandile Roberta , Annunziata Francesca , Di Giosaffatte Niccolò , D’Asdia Maria Cecilia , Versacci Paolo , Capolino Rossella , Strisciuglio Pietro , Giustini Sandra , Melis Daniela , Digilio Maria Cristina , Tartaglia Marco , Marino Bruno , De Luca Alessandro
Published: September 2019

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and type of congenital heart disease (CHD) and the associated mutation spectrum in a large series of patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), and correlate the mutation type with the presence and subgroups of cardiac defects. The study cohort included 493 individuals with molecularly confirmed diagnosis of NF1 for whom cardiac evaluation data were available. CHD was reported in 62/493 (12.6%) patients. Among these patients, 23/62 (37.1%) had pulmonary valve stenosis/dysplasia, 20/62 (32.3%) had mitral valve anomalies, and 10/62 (16.1%) had septal defects. Other defects occurred as rare events. In this NF1 subcohort, three subjects carried a whole-gene deletion, while 59 were heterozygous for an intragenic mutation. A significantly increased prevalence of non-truncating intragenic mutations was either observed in individuals with CHD (22/59, 37.3%) or with pulmonary valve stenosis (13/20, 65.0%), when compared to individuals without CHD (89/420, 21.2%) (p = 0.038) or pulmonary valve stenosis (98/459, 21.4%) (p = 0.002). Similarly, patients with non-truncating NF1 mutations displayed two- and six-fold higher risk of developing CHD (odds ratio = 1.9713, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.1162–3.4814, p = 0.0193) and pulmonary valve stenosis (odds ratio = 6.8411, 95% CI: 2.6574–17.6114, p = 0.0001), respectively. Noteworthy, all but one patient (19/20, 95.0%) with pulmonary valve stenosis, and 18/35 (51.4%) patients with other CHDs displayed Noonan syndrome (NS)-like features. Present data confirm the significant frequency of CHD in patients with NF1, and provide further evidence for a higher than expected prevalence of NF1 in-frame variants and NS-like characteristics in NF1 patients with CHD, particularly with pulmonary valve stenosis.
Post-Traumatic Growth Following Exposure to Memorial Reports of the 5.12 Wenchuan Earthquake: The Moderating Roles of Self-Esteem and Long-Term PTSD Symptoms
Authors: Ma Zhihao , Xia Yiwei , Lin Zhongxuan
Published: September 2019

Media exposure during a traumatic event has been found to be associated with negative psychological consequences. However, the post-disaster role of the mass media and the possible positive psychological consequences of media exposure has received less attention. In the present study, we hypothesized that exposure to memorial media reports would lead to improved post-traumatic growth (PTG). Further, we evaluated the moderating role of self-esteem and long-term post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in the relationship between media exposure and PTG. Using a cross-sectional design, we surveyed individuals (N = 1000, mean age = 45.62, 43.5% male) who were recruited from disaster-affected communities ten years after the 5.12 Wenchuan earthquake which was the largest country-level trauma in the past three decades. Results revealed that individuals with lower self-esteem or lower PTSD symptoms would have higher psychological growth with greater exposure to memorial news reports. For individuals who reported having both high levels of self-esteem and PTSD symptoms, the relationship between media exposure and PTG was negative. These findings help present trauma in a new light, particularly regarding the rapid and instantaneous new coverage of the digital age. This study also has multi-disciplinary, cross-cultural, and clinical implications for the fields of psychology, public health, and communications.
Toward Livestock Supply Chain Sustainability: A Case Study on Supply Chain Coordination and Sustainable Development in the Pig Sector in China
Authors: Zhuo Ni , Ji Chen
Published: September 2019

Stricter environmental regulations on livestock production pollution have changed the sustainable practices of livestock supply chain stakeholders. By adopting three cases in China’s livestock supply chain, this study explores how supply chain coordination facilitates sustainable development of livestock production in China. It is found that close supply chain coordination and the capabilities of the core companies jointly contribute to supply chain sustainability. Thus, this research has theoretical significance in explaining the roles of supply chain coordination and core company capabilities in driving supply chain sustainability, which is not completely understood thus far. This study also has practical implications for livestock supply chain stakeholders and the government in terms of improving supply chain sustainability via closer supply chain coordination and enhancing the capabilities of the core companies involved.
A Cross Sectional Study Evaluating Psychosocial Job Stress and Health Risk in Emergency Department Nurses
Authors: Bardhan Rupkatha , Heaton Karen , Davis Melissa , Chen Peter , Dickinson Dale A. , Lungu Claudiu T.
Published: September 2019

Nurses experience psychosocial work stress that may negatively affect physical and mental health over time. In this cross-sectional study we investigated prevalence of job stress and oxidative stress in nurses, and determined if significant relationships exist between higher job stress scores and demographic factors and working conditions. Emergency department nurses (n = 42) were recruited from a University Hospital following Institutional Review Board approval. Job stress indicators, effort–reward ratio and overcommitment were evaluated from survey questionnaires using the effort–reward imbalance model, and associations with age, sex, body mass index, and working conditions were measured by logistic regression analysis. Oxidative stress biomarkers, 8-isoprostane, malondialdehyde, and antioxidant levels were measured from urine specimens. Job stress was prevalent with effort–reward ratio > 1 in 93% and overcommitment > 50 in 83% of the study participants. Age, body mass index, years of experience, weekend work, work hours per week, and shift work showed strong associations with effort–reward ratio and overcommitment scores. Malondialdehyde was higher in participants with high overcommitment. We report that psychosocial job stress is prevalent among nurses, as revealed by the high effort–reward and overcommitment scores. Job stress may be reduced through implementation of appropriate stress reduction interventions.
Influence of Carrier Filling Ratio on the Advanced Nitrogen Removal from Wastewater Treatment Plant Effluent by Denitrifying MBBR
Authors: Zhao Yuanzhe , Yuan Quan , He Zan , Wang Haiyan , Yan Guokai , Chang Yang , Chu Zhaosheng , Ling Yu , Wang Huan
Published: September 2019

The filling ratio (FR) of a carrier has an influence on the pollutant removal of the aerobic moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR). However, the effect of the polyethylene (PE) carrier FR on the performance and microbial characteristics of the denitrifying MBBR for the treatment of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent has not been extensively studied. A bench-scale denitrifying MBBR was set up and operated with PE carrier FRs of 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50% for the degradation of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and nitrogen from WWTP effluent at 12 h hydraulic retention time (HRT). The nitrate removal rates with FRs of 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50% were 94.3 ± 3.9%, 87.7 ± 7.3%, 89.7 ± 11.6%, and 94.6 ± 4.0%, and the corresponding denitrification rates (rNO3--N) were 8.0 ± 5.6, 11.3 ± 4.6, 11.6 ± 4.6, and 10.0 ± 4.9 mg NO3−-N/L/d, respectively. Nitrous oxide reductase (nosZ) gene-based terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis illustrated that the highest functional diversity (Shannon’s diversity index, H′) of biofilm microbial community was obtained at 30% FR. The quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) results indicated that the abundance of nitrate reductase (narG) and nosZ genes at 30% FR was significantly higher than that at 20% FR, and no significant changes were observed at 40% and 50% FRs. Thus, 30% FR was recommended as the optimal carrier FR for the denitrifying MBBR.