bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eukaryotic Translation Elongation is Modulated by Single Natural Nucleotide Derivatives in the Coding Sequences of mRNAs
Authors: Hoernes Thomas Philipp , Heimdörfer David , Köstner Daniel , Faserl Klaus , Nußbaumer Felix , Plangger Raphael , Kreutz Christoph , Lindner Herbert , Erlacher Matthias David
Published: January 2019

RNA modifications are crucial factors for efficient protein synthesis. All classes of RNAs that are involved in translation are modified to different extents. Recently, mRNA modifications and their impact on gene regulation became a focus of interest because they can exert a variety of effects on the fate of mRNAs. mRNA modifications within coding sequences can either directly or indirectly interfere with protein synthesis. In order to investigate the roles of various natural occurring modified nucleotides, we site-specifically introduced them into the coding sequence of reporter mRNAs and subsequently translated them in HEK293T cells. The analysis of the respective protein products revealed a strong position-dependent impact of RNA modifications on translation efficiency and accuracy. Whereas a single 5-methylcytosine (m5C) or pseudouridine (Ψ) did not reduce product yields, N1-methyladenosine (m1A) generally impeded the translation of the respective modified mRNA. An inhibitory effect of 2′O-methlyated nucleotides (Nm) and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) was strongly dependent on their position within the codon. Finally, we could not attribute any miscoding potential to the set of mRNA modifications tested in HEK293T cells.
Predicting Future Driving Risk of Crash-Involved Drivers Based on a Systematic Machine Learning Framework
Authors: Wang Chen , Liu Lin , Xu Chengcheng , Lv Weitao
Published: January 2019

The objective of this paper is to predict the future driving risk of crash-involved drivers in Kunshan, China. A systematic machine learning framework is proposed to deal with three critical technical issues: 1. defining driving risk; 2. developing risky driving factors; 3. developing a reliable and explicable machine learning model. High-risk (HR) and low-risk (LR) drivers were defined by five different scenarios. A number of features were extracted from seven-year crash/violation records. Drivers’ two-year prior crash/violation information was used to predict their driving risk in the subsequent two years. Using a one-year rolling time window, prediction models were developed for four consecutive time periods: 2013–2014, 2014–2015, 2015–2016, and 2016–2017. Four tree-based ensemble learning techniques were attempted, including random forest (RF), Adaboost with decision tree, gradient boosting decision tree (GBDT), and extreme gradient boosting decision tree (XGboost). A temporal transferability test and a follow-up study were applied to validate the trained models. The best scenario defining driving risk was multi-dimensional, encompassing crash recurrence, severity, and fault commitment. GBDT appeared to be the best model choice across all time periods, with an acceptable average precision (AP) of 0.68 on the most recent datasets (i.e., 2016–2017). Seven of nine top features were related to risky driving behaviors, which presented non-linear relationships with driving risk. Model transferability held within relatively short time intervals (1–2 years). Appropriate risk definition, complicated violation/crash features, and advanced machine learning techniques need to be considered for risk prediction task. The proposed machine learning approach is promising, so that safety interventions can be launched more effectively.
Three-Dimensional Digital Documentation of Cultural Heritage Site Based on the Convergence of Terrestrial Laser Scanning and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Photogrammetry
Authors: Jo Young Hoon , Hong Seonghyuk
Published: January 2019

Three-dimensional digital technology is important in the maintenance and monitoring of cultural heritage sites. This study focuses on using a combination of terrestrial laser scanning and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) photogrammetry to establish a three-dimensional model and the associated digital documentation of the Magoksa Temple, Republic of Korea. Herein, terrestrial laser scanning and UAV photogrammetry was used to acquire the perpendicular geometry of the buildings and sites, where UAV photogrammetry yielded higher planar data acquisition rate in upper zones, such as the roof of a building, than terrestrial laser scanning. On comparing the two technologies’ accuracy based on their ground control points, laser scanning was observed to provide higher positional accuracy than photogrammetry. The overall discrepancy between the two technologies was found to be sufficient for the generation of convergent data. Thus, the terrestrial laser scanning and UAV photogrammetry data were aligned and merged post conversion into compatible extensions. A three-dimensional (3D) model, with planar and perpendicular geometries, based on the hybrid data-point cloud was developed. This study demonstrates the potential for using the integration of terrestrial laser scanning and UAV photogrammetry in 3D digital documentation and spatial analysis of cultural heritage sites.
Association of the MDM2 SNP285 and SNP309 Genetic Variants with the Risk, Age at Onset and Prognosis of Breast Cancer in Central European Women: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study
Authors: Miedl Heidi , Lebhard Jürgen , Ehart Lisa , Schreiber Martin
Published: January 2019

SNP309T>G (rs2279744) and SNP285G>C (rs117039649) in the MDM2 promoter are thought to have opposite effects on the binding of transcription factor SP1 (specificity protein 1), and consequently on MDM2 expression, p53 levels, cancer risk, age at onset, and prognosis. Here, we genotyped SNP309 and SNP285 in 406 Austrian breast cancer patients and 254 female controls. The SNP309GG genotype was associated with an increased breast cancer risk in p53 negative (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.09–3.03; p = 0.02), but not p53 positive or unselected patients. In contrast, the SNP309TT genotype was associated with an earlier age at onset (TT, 57.0 ± 12.9; TG, 58.6 ± 13.9; GG, 59.7 ± 15.0 years; p = 0.048). 31% of SNP309TT, 26% of TG, and 13% of GG tumors were p53 positive (p = 0.034), indicating a lower selective pressure to mutate TP53 in the presence of the G-allele. Moreover, SNP309TT patients exhibited a shortened metastasis-free survival in multivariable analysis. Censoring carriers of the SNP285C-allele hardly altered the strength of these associations of SNP309, thus challenging the proposed antagonistic function of SNP285C towards SNP309G. The minor SNP285C-allele tended to be non-significantly associated with an increased breast cancer risk and a poor disease-free and metastasis-free survival, which may be bystander effects of its complete linkage disequilibrium with SNP309G. We conclude that the SNP309G-allele attenuates the p53-response and leads to a higher breast cancer risk, but also to a later onset of breast cancer and a trend towards a good prognosis.
Expression of Immune Regulatory Genes in the Porcine Internal Genital Tract Is Differentially Triggered by Spermatozoa and Seminal Plasma
Authors: Alvarez-Rodriguez Manuel , Atikuzzaman Mohammad , Venhoranta Heli , Wright Dominic , Rodriguez-Martinez Heriberto
Published: January 2019

Mating or cervical deposition of spermatozoa or seminal plasma (SP) modifies the expression of genes affecting local immune defense processes at the oviductal sperm reservoir in animals with internal fertilization, frequently by down-regulation. Such responses may occur alongside sperm transport to or even beyond the reservoir. Here, immune-related gene expression was explored with cDNA microarrays on porcine cervix-to-infundibulum tissues, pre-/peri-ovulation. Samples were collected 24 h post-mating or cervical deposition of sperm-peak spermatozoa or SP (from the sperm-peak fraction or the whole ejaculate). All treatments of this interventional study affected gene expression. The concerted action of spermatozoa and SP down-regulated chemokine and cytokine (P00031), interferon-gamma signaling (P00035), and JAK/STAT (P00038) pathways in segments up to the sperm reservoir (utero-tubal junction (UTJ)/isthmus). Spermatozoa in the vanguard sperm-peak fraction (P1-AI), uniquely displayed an up-regulatory effect on these pathways in the ampulla and infundibulum. Sperm-free SP, on the other hand, did not lead to major effects on gene expression, despite the clinical notion that SP mitigates reactivity by the female immune system after mating or artificial insemination.
Post-Genomic Methodologies and Preclinical Animal Models: Chances for the Translation of Cardioprotection to the Clinic
Authors: Badimon Lina , Mendieta Guiomar , Ben-Aicha Soumaya , Vilahur Gemma
Published: January 2019

Although many cardioprotective strategies have demonstrated benefits in animal models of myocardial infarction, they have failed to demonstrate cardioprotection in the clinical setting highlighting that new therapeutic target and treatment strategies aimed at reducing infarct size are urgently needed. Completion of the Human Genome Project in 2001 fostered the post-genomic research era with the consequent development of high-throughput “omics” platforms including transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. Implementation of these holistic approaches within the field of cardioprotection has enlarged our understanding of ischemia/reperfusion injury with each approach capturing a different angle of the global picture of the disease. It has also contributed to identify potential prognostic/diagnostic biomarkers and discover novel molecular therapeutic targets. In this latter regard, “omic” data analysis in the setting of ischemic conditioning has allowed depicting potential therapeutic candidates, including non-coding RNAs and molecular chaperones, amenable to pharmacological development. Such discoveries must be tested and validated in a relevant and reliable myocardial infarction animal model before moving towards the clinical setting. Moreover, efforts should also focus on integrating all “omic” datasets rather than working exclusively on a single “omic” approach. In the following manuscript, we will discuss the power of implementing “omic” approaches in preclinical animal models to identify novel molecular targets for cardioprotection of interest for drug development.
AMPK-Mediated Regulation of Alpha-Arrestins and Protein Trafficking
Authors: O’Donnell Allyson F. , Schmidt Martin C.
Published: January 2019

The adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) plays a central role in the regulation of cellular metabolism. Recent studies reveal a novel role for AMPK in the regulation of glucose and other carbohydrates flux by controlling the endocytosis of transporters. The first step in glucose metabolism is glucose uptake, a process mediated by members of the GLUT/SLC2A (glucose transporters) or HXT (hexose transporters) family of twelve-transmembrane domain glucose transporters in mammals and yeast, respectively. These proteins are conserved from yeast to humans, and multiple transporters—each with distinct kinetic properties—compete for plasma membrane occupancy in order to enhance or limit the rate of glucose uptake. During growth in the presence of alternative carbon sources, glucose transporters are removed and replaced with the appropriate transporter to help support growth in response to this environment. New insights into the regulated protein trafficking of these transporters reveal the requirement for specific α-arrestins, a little-studied class of protein trafficking adaptor. A defining feature of the α-arrestins is that each contains PY-motifs, which can bind to the ubiquitin ligases from the NEDD4/Rsp5 (Neural precursor cell Expressed, Developmentally Down-regulated 4 and Reverses Spt- Phenotype 5, respectively) family. Specific association of α-arrestins with glucose and carbohydrate transporters is thought to bring the ubiquitin ligase in close proximity to its membrane substrate, and thereby allows the membrane cargo to become ubiquitinated. This ubiquitination in turn serves as a mark to stimulate endocytosis. Recent results show that AMPK phosphorylation of the α-arrestins impacts their abundance and/or ability to stimulate carbohydrate transporter endocytosis. Indeed, AMPK or glucose limitation also controls α-arrestin gene expression, adding an additional layer of complexity to this regulation. Here, we review the recent studies that have expanded the role of AMPK in cellular metabolism to include regulation of α-arrestin-mediated trafficking of transporters and show that this mechanism of regulation is conserved over the ~150 million years of evolution that separate yeast from man.
Mixture Proportion Design Method of Steel Fiber Reinforced Recycled Coarse Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Gao Danying , Zhang Lijuan , Nokken Michelle , Zhao Jun
Published: January 2019

Steel fiber reinforced recycled coarse aggregate concrete (SFRCAC) is an impact minimisation building material. Mixture proportion design method of SFRCAC is developed in this paper to obtain concrete with target strength and workability, which can be used in structural members. Four key parameters of mixture proportioning, steel fiber content, water-cement ratio, water content and sand ratio are discussed through the mixture design tests. The formula for calculating the four key parameters of mixture proportions for SFRCAC are established through the statistical analysis of test results, which mainly consider the influences of recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) replacement ratio and steel fiber characteristic coefficient. The detailed procedure by using the new mixture proportion design method is illustrated with examples. The formulas established have the simple form, reflect the properties of RCA and steel fibers, enhance the mixture proportion design accuracy, and provide the reference for the mix proportion design of SFRCAC.
Optical Fiber Sensors for the Detection of Hydrochloric Acid and Sea Water in Epoxy and Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites
Authors: Marro Bellot Cristian , Sangermano Marco , Olivero Massimo , Salvo Milena
Published: January 2019

Optical fiber sensors (OFSs), which rely on evanescent wave sensing for the early detection of the diffusion of water and hydrochloric acid through glass fiber-reinforced polymers (GFRPs), have been developed and tested. Epoxy and GFRP specimens, in which these sensors were embedded, were subjected to tests in artificial sea water and hydrochloric acid. The sensors were able to detect the diffusion of chemicals through the epoxy and GFRP samples on the basis of a drop in the reflected signal from the tip of the optical sensor probe. Water and hydrochloric acid diffusion coefficients were calculated from gravimetric measurements and compared with the experimental response of the OFSs. Furthermore, mechanical tests were carried out to assess the influence of the sensors on the structural integrity of the GFRP specimens.
An Exploratory Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease and the Psychosocial Factors Affecting Health-Related Quality of Life
Authors: Sarwan Nirmala , Jurawan Ricardo , Singh Rudrunath , Chattu Vijay Kumar
Published: January 2019

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a multidimensional concept that assesses an individual’s personal satisfaction with his/her daily life while coping with a medical condition and/or its consequent therapy. This study aims to determine the psychosocial needs most commonly affected among inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. Psychosocial needs which were pertinent to the IBD community were assessed using a questionnaire designed by the gastrointestinal team at the Port of Spain General Hospital, Trinidad after getting ethical approval. The chi-squared test was used to assess for statistically significant associations. Of the total 115 participants who completed the survey, a majority of 73 (63%) were females and 70 (61%) were in the 18 to 40-year age group. A majority of 66 (57%) were diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and 66 (57%) were on non-biologic drug therapy. Diet was the need most prevailingly affected, with 87% of participants indicating such. Ability to maintain good hygiene was the need least affected, with 32% of participants identifying concern. We found a significant association between participant’s illness perception (IP) and each of the ten psychosocial variables. The participants’ IP was in turn strongly associated with the ability to cope with the illness while not being associated with the demographic or clinical details of the participants. The results can be used to improve the quality of care delivered to patients living with IBD.
Deformation Behavior of Internal Porosity in Continuous Casting Wide-Thick Slab during Heavy Reduction
Authors: Wu Chenhui , Ji Cheng , Zhu Miaoyong
Published: January 2019

Heavy reduction (HR) is a novel technology that could effectively improve the internal porosities and other internal quality problems in continuously cast steel, during which a large reduction deformation is implemented at and after the strand solidification end. In the present paper, non-uniform solidification of the wide-thick slab was calculated with a two-dimensional (2D) heat transfer model. Based on the predicted temperature distribution at the solidification end of the casting strand, a three-dimensional (3D) thermal-mechanical coupled model was developed for investigating the deformation behavior of the internal porosities in wide-thick slab during HR. An Arrhenius-type constitutive model for the studied steel grade was derived based on the measured true stress-strain with single-pass thermosimulation compression experiments and applied to the 3D thermal-mechanical coupled model for improving the calculation accuracy. With the developed 3D thermal-mechanical coupled model, deformation behavior of the two artificial porosities located at the slab center of 1/2 width and 1/8 width during HR was investigated under different condition of HR deformation, HR start position, and HR reduction mode. Based on the calculated porosity closure degree (ηs) and the corresponding equivalent strain (εeq) under different HR conditions, a prediction model that describes the quantitative relationship between ηs and εeq was derived for directly and accurately evaluating the process effect of HR on improving the internal porosities in wide-thick slab.
Selective Adsorption of CH4/N2 on Ni-based MOF/SBA-15 Composite Materials
Authors: Liu Hong , Ding Wei , Lei Shaohua , Tian Xupei , Zhou Fubao
Published: January 2019

Spherical SBA-15-based metal–organic framework (MOF) composite materials were prepared, with nickel as the metal center of MOFs. The materials were characterized via scanning electron microscopy, X-ray fluorescence analysis, X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and nitrogen (N2) adsorption–desorption. The methane (CH4) or N2 high-pressure adsorption isotherms of the samples were measured and compared. The specific surface area and adsorption capacity of the composite materials were generally higher than the pristine MOFs, but were much lower than the synthesized SBA-15. The selectivity of the samples toward a binary gas mixture was determined from the Langmuir adsorption equation. The results revealed that, of all the samples, the MOF-2/SBA-15 sample had the best CH4/N2 adsorption selectivity, with an adsorption selection parameter (S) of 11.1. However, the adsorption of MOF-2/SBA-15 was less than that of spherical SBA-15, due to partial plugging of the pores during the synthesis process. Further research is essential for improving the performance of spherical SBA-15-based MOF materials and (in turn) the enrichment of CH4 from the CH4/N2 mixture.
Identification of Potential Inhibitors from Pyriproxyfen with Insecticidal Activity by Virtual Screening
Authors: Ramos Ryan , Costa Josivan , Silva Rai , da Costa Glauber , Rodrigues Alex , Rabelo Érica , Souto Raimundo , Taft Carlton , Silva Carlos , Rosa Joaquín , Santos Cleydson , Macêdo Williams
Published: January 2019

Aedes aegypti is the main vector of dengue fever transmission, yellow fever, Zika, and chikungunya in tropical and subtropical regions and it is considered to cause health risks to millions of people in the world. In this study, we search to obtain new molecules with insecticidal potential against Ae. aegypti via virtual screening. Pyriproxyfen was chosen as a template compound to search molecules in the database Zinc_Natural_Stock (ZNSt) with structural similarity using ROCS (rapid overlay of chemical structures) and EON (electrostatic similarity) software, and in the final search, the top 100 were selected. Subsequently, in silico pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties were determined resulting in a total of 14 molecules, and these were submitted to the PASS online server for the prediction of biological insecticide and acetylcholinesterase activities, and only two selected molecules followed for the molecular docking study to evaluate the binding free energy and interaction mode. After these procedures were performed, toxicity risk assessment such as LD50 values in mg/kg and toxicity class using the PROTOX online server, were undertaken. Molecule ZINC00001624 presented potential for inhibition for the acetylcholinesterase enzyme (insect and human) with a binding affinity value of −10.5 and −10.3 kcal/mol, respectively. The interaction with the juvenile hormone was −11.4 kcal/mol for the molecule ZINC00001021. Molecules ZINC00001021 and ZINC00001624 had excellent predictions in all the steps of the study and may be indicated as the most promising molecules resulting from the virtual screening of new insecticidal agents.
THz Mixing with High-TC Hot Electron Bolometers: A Performance Modeling Assessment for Y-Ba-Cu-O Devices
Authors: Ladret Romain , Dégardin Annick , Jagtap Vishal , Kreisler Alain
Published: January 2019

Hot electron bolometers (HEB) made from high-TC superconducting YBa2Cu3O7–x (YBCO) oxide nano-constrictions are promising THz mixers, due to their expected wide bandwidth, large mixing gain, and low intrinsic noise. The challenge for YBCO resides, however, in the chemical reactivity of the material and the related aging effects. In this paper, we model and simulate the frequency dependent performance of YBCO HEBs operating as THz mixers. We recall first the main hypotheses of our hot spot model taking into account both the RF frequency effects in the YBCO superconducting transition and the nano-constriction impedance at THz frequencies. The predicted performance up to 4 THz is given in terms of double sideband noise temperature TDSB and conversion gain G. At 2.5 THz for instance, TDSB ≅ 1000 K and G ≅ − 6 dB could be achieved at 12.5 μW local oscillator power. We then consider a standoff target detection scheme and examine the feasibility with YBCO devices. For instance, detection at 3 m through cotton cloth in passive imaging mode could be readily achieved in moderate humidity conditions with 10 K resolution.
Design and Calibration of a Low-Cost SDI-12 Soil Moisture Sensor
Authors: González-Teruel Juan D. , Torres-Sánchez Roque , Blaya-Ros Pedro J. , Toledo-Moreo Ana B. , Jiménez-Buendía Manuel , Soto-Valles Fulgencio
Published: January 2019

Water is the main limiting factor in agricultural production as well as a scarce resource that needs to be optimized. The measurement of soil water with sensors is an efficient way for optimal irrigation management. However, commercial sensors are still too expensive for most farmers. This paper presents the design, development and calibration of a new capacitive low-cost soil moisture sensor that incorporates SDI-12 communication, allowing one to select the calibration equation for different soils. The sensor was calibrated in three different soils and its variability and accuracy were evaluated. Lower but cost-compensated accuracy was observed in comparing it with commercial sensors. Field tests have demonstrated the temperature influence on the sensor and its capability to efficiently detect irrigation and rainfall events.
Nonlinear Effect of Public Infrastructure on Energy Intensity in China: A Panel Smooth Transition Regression Approach
Authors: Bi Chao , Jia Minna , Zeng Jingjing
Published: January 2019

Public infrastructure not only promotes economic growth, but also influences energy intensity, which plays an important role in the strategies related to energy. Therefore, infrastructure policy can be used as an important instrument to reconcile the dilemma of energy, economy, and environment in China. However, few studies have been made to assess the effect of public infrastructure on energy intensity in China. This paper presents an analysis of how three typical types of public infrastructure (i.e., transportation, energy, and information infrastructure) affect energy intensity for 30 Chinese provinces, from 2001 to 2016. To account for nonlinearities, we adopt the panel smooth transition regression (PSTR) approach. The results show that transportation infrastructure has a significantly negative effect on energy intensity, and this negative effect gradually strengthens when the transportation infrastructure stock exceeds the threshold value. Adversely, energy infrastructure has a significantly positive effect on energy intensity, and this positive effect gradually strengthens with the development of energy infrastructure. Our results also suggest that the development of information infrastructure could not only strengthen its own significantly negative effect on energy intensity, but also could promote the negative effect of transportation infrastructure on energy intensity. Moreover, the positive impact of energy infrastructure on energy intensity gradually decreases when the stock of information infrastructure surpasses the larger threshold value. Our findings suggest that policy makers could reduce energy intensity by accelerating the development of transportation and information infrastructure. Furthermore, they could strengthen the negative effects of transportation and information infrastructure on energy intensity and weaken energy infrastructure’s positive effect on energy intensity by increasing their information infrastructure investment.
Compression Molded Thermoplastic Composites Entirely Made of Recycled Materials
Authors: Sormunen Petri , Kärki Timo
Published: January 2019

Recycled post-consumer high-density polyethylene pipe plastic was agglomerated into composite samples with wood, glass fiber, mineral wool, gypsum, and soapstone as recycled particulate fillers. The tensile strength, tensile modulus, impact strength, and hardness were the mechanical properties evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy was performed on the broken surfaces of tensile strength samples to study the interfacial interactions between the composite matrix and the filler materials. Heat build-up, water absorption, and thickness swelling were the physical properties measured from the composites. The addition of particulate fillers demonstrated the weakening of the tensile and impact strength but significantly improved the rigidity of the post-consumer plastic. The composites filled with minerals had mechanical properties comparable to compression molded wood plastic composites but higher resistance to moisture. A lack of hot-melt mixing affected the mechanical properties adversely.
The Prospective Approach for the Reduction of Fluoride Ions Mobility in Industrial Waste by Creating Products of Commercial Value
Authors: Rudelis Valdas , Dambrauskas Tadas , Grineviciene Agne , Baltakys Kestutis
Published: January 2019

In this work, we present the possibility to reduce the amount of fluoride ions in silica gel waste by using different techniques or to immobilize these ions by creating products of commercial value. The leaching of fluoride ions from silica gel waste to the liquid medium was done under static and dynamic conditions. It was determined that the removal of fluoride ions from this compound depends on various factors, such as dissociation, solubility, the w/s ratio, reaction temperature, leaching conditions, the adsorption properties of silica gel waste, and others. The obtained results showed that, by applying different techniques, the quantity of fluoride ions can be reduced by 60%, while obtained water was neutralized by calcium hydroxide. Additionally, it was determined that silica gel waste is a promising raw material for the hydrothermal synthesis of a stable compound containing fluoride ions–cuspidine.
Why Do Companies Pursue Collaborative Circular Oriented Innovation?
Authors: Brown Phil , Bocken Nancy , Balkenende Ruud
Published: January 2019

We investigate why companies collaborate within the circular oriented innovation process. The purpose is to understand what motives trigger collaborative circular oriented innovation, as well as conditions, drivers and barriers. First, we define circular oriented innovation building on sustainable oriented innovation literature. Subsequently, we investigate 11 leading circular economy companies operating within the Netherlands, who developed collaborative circular oriented innovation activities. ‘Hard’ and ‘soft’ dimensions for innovation are identified and applied to delineate the drivers and barriers for collaborative circular oriented innovation. Our findings indicate that collaborations are conducted by entrepreneurially-minded actors through sharing a vision, enthusiasm, and crucially, a credible proposition for a circular economy. Furthermore, collaboration is sought early, to co-develop the problem and solution space and integrate disparate knowledge from across the value network, to mitigate increased complexity. Motives to collaborate vary between personal and organisational, and intrinsic and extrinsic levels. Collaborations start based on a relational basis between ‘CE front-runners’ to advance knowledge through experimentation. ‘Soft’ challenges to advance collaborations towards the competitive remain around culture, and the mindset to share rewards and risks. Without suitable solutions to these challenges, collaborative circular oriented innovation could remain underdeveloped within the transition towards the systemic level.
The Water Footprint of Wood for Energy Consumed in the European Union
Authors: Schyns Joep F. , Vanham Davy
Published: January 2019

The European Union (EU) aims at increasing the share of renewable energy use, of which nearly half originates from wood sources currently. An energy supply from wood sources strongly relies on green water resources, which are limited and also essential for food security and terrestrial biodiversity. We have estimated the water footprint (WF) of wood for energy consumed in the EU-28 (WFwec) by combining data on energy produced from wood sources in the EU per member state for the year 2015 from the EU energy reference scenario 2016, extra-EU trade in fuelwood and charcoal, and country-specific estimates of the water footprint per unit of wood. We find that the WFwec is large (156 × 109 m3/y), 94% of this footprint is situated within the EU, and it is almost exclusively related to green water (99%). Adding WFwec to the WF related to the EU’s consumption of agricultural and industrial products as well as domestic water use (702 × 109 m3/y) signifies an increase of 22% to 858 × 109 m3/y. We show that over half of the internal WFwec is in member states that have a high degree of green water scarcity and hence very limited potential left to sustainably allocate more green water flows to biomass production. The results of this study feed into the debate on how the EU can achieve a sustainable and reliable energy supply. Policies on energy security should consider that increased use of wood or other biomass for energy increases the already significant pressure on limited green water resources.
Magnetospheric Multiscale Observation of Kinetic Signatures in the Alfvén Vortex
Authors: Wang Tieyan , Alexandrova Olga , Perrone Denise , Dunlop Malcolm , Dong Xiangcheng , Bingham Robert , Khotyaintsev Yu. V. , Russell C. T. , Giles B. L. , Torbert R. B. , Ergun R. E. , Burch J. L.
Published: January 2019

Alfvén vortex is a multiscale nonlinear structure that contributes to the intermittency of turbulence. Despite previous explorations mostly on the spatial properties of the Alfvén vortex (i.e., scale, orientation, and motion), the plasma characteristics within the Alfvén vortex are unknown. Moreover, the connection between the plasma energization and the Alfvén vortex still remains unclear. Based on high-resolution in situ measurements from the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission, we report for the first time distinctive plasma features within an Alfvén vortex. This Alfvén vortex is identified as being a 2D (

) quasi-monopole with a radius of  10 proton gyroscales. Its magnetic fluctuations

are anti-correlated with velocity fluctuations

, thus the parallel current density

and flow vorticity

are anti-aligned. In different part of the vortex (i.e., edge, middle, center), the ion and electron temperatures are found to be quite different and they behave in the reverse trend: the ion temperature variations are correlated with

, while the electron temperature variations are correlated with

. Furthermore, the temperature anisotropies, together with the non-Maxwellian kinetic effects, exhibit strong enhancement at peaks of

within the vortex. Comparison between observations and numerical/theoretical results are made. In addition, the energy-conversion channels and the compressibility associated with the Alfvén vortex are discussed. These results may help to understand the link between coherent vortex structures and the kinetic processes, which determines how turbulence energy dissipates in the weakly collisional space plasmas.
Optic Nerve Compression in Infantile Malignant Autosomal Recessive Osteopetrosis
Authors: Cummings Thomas J , Proia Alan D
Published: January 2019

Abstract. A 6-month-old infant was diagnosed with infantile malignant autosomal recessive osteopetrosis. An ophthalmologic examination revealed optic nerve pallor and computed tomography of the brain showed narrowing of the orbital fissure. Unrelated umbilical cord blood transplantation was performed. Four months later, the infant died of respiratory complications. J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2004;41:241-244.
Primary Congenital Glaucoma: 2004 Update
Authors: Ho Ching Lin , Walton David S.
Published: January 2019

Educational Objectives

1.

To review current and new information of clinical value related to primary congenital glaucoma, including its genetic etiology, defining clinical features, and medical and surgical treatments.

2.

To describe the clinical evaluation of patients with childhood glaucoma and the differential diagnosis of patients with signs and symptoms that suggest primary congenital glaucoma.

3.

To describe the terminology, epidemiology, and pathogenesis of primary congenital glaucoma.

See quiz on page 300; no payment required.

Background:

Primary congenital glaucoma is the most frequent childhood glaucoma and an important cause of blindness. We describe the current understanding regarding this disease, the evaluation of children with it, and its treatment.

Patients and Methods:

We accessed information derived from a review of 287 patients with primary congenital glaucoma and current published data related to primary congenital glaucoma.

Results:

The nomenclature for childhood glaucoma has been inconsistent, but is clarified for children with primary congenital glaucoma. The epidemiology of primary congenital glaucoma notes its variable incidence worldwide. Familial occurrence supports autosomal recessive transmission; chromosomal loci have been identified, and the
CYP1B1
gene has been identified and clinically correlated. The histopathology of eyes with primary congenital glaucoma confirms the presence of a variable trabecular meshwork anomaly and the absence of an imperforate membrane. Children with primary congenital glaucoma are diagnosed after recognition of corneal signs and symptoms of glaucoma.

Conclusions:

The examinations of patients with primary congenital glaucoma must be thorough to distinguish this glaucoma from other types of childhood glaucoma, to prepare for surgery, and to follow progress with treatment. Medical treatment must be tailored to the pediatric patient. Goniosurgery is the definitive procedure of choice for most children with primary congenital glaucoma, but other procedures are also used successfully after goniosurgery fails or is determined to be inappropriate. Future success will be determined by physicians who sustain continued progress for children with glaucoma.

J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
2004;41:271–288.
Spontaneous Resolution of Optic Nerve Coloboma-Associated Retinal Detachment
Authors: Ying Michelle S. , Fuller Jeff , Young Joshua , Marcus Dennis M.
Published: January 2019

We report a congenital neurosensory retinal detachment associated with an optic nerve coloboma with subsequent spontaneous reattachment. This represents the earliest reported case of such a clinical situation. An observation period is recommended for infants with this clinical course to allow for the opportunity of spontaneous reattachment.

J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
2004; 41:358–360.
Pigmented Malignant Medulloepithelioma of the Ciliary Body
Authors: Gopal Lingam , Babu Kalpana , Gupta Salil , Krishnakumar S. , Biswas Jyotirmay , Rao Narsing A.
Published: January 2019

Medulloepitheliomas are usually amelanotic. Pigmented medulloepitheliomas are unusual and only two cases have been reported. We report an additional case of pigmented malignant medulloepithelioma of the ciliary body with histopathologic correlation.

J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
2004;41:364–366.
Evidencias arqueológicas de un monasterio de los siglos VI-VII en el Prepirineo catalán: Santa Cecilia de Els Altimiris
Authors: Planas Marta Sancho i
Published: January 2019

La excavación del yacimiento de Els Altimiris ha sacado a la luz un establecimiento monástico correspondiente al período visigodo (ss. VI-VII) enclavado en una zona montañosa del Prepirineo catalán. La comprensión e interpretación de las evidencias arqueológicas nos ha llevado a indagar sobre la estructuración del territorio pirenaico durante ese período, las características y procedencia de sus pobladores, la presencia de élites y las bases de su economía. Presentamos los resultados de nuestra investigación basada en el registro arqueológico de dicho yacimiento, contextualizado a partir de las investigaciones realizadas sobre este período en los últimos años. El objetivo es el de ofrecer una propuesta interpretativa que nos permita comprender las causas de la formación de este establecimiento así como las que originaron su decadencia a partir del siglo VIII y su total abandono a inicios del siglo IX.
Former l’homme
Authors: Krotky Étienne
Published: January 2019

Si Comenius (1592-1670) est peu connu en France, dans d’autres pays des centaines d’ouvrages ont été consacrés à l’étude de ses pensées. On sait qu’il a, entre autres choses, fondé la pédagogie comme science autonome. Il justifie la nécessité de l’éducation pour TOUS les hommes par la conception même qu’il se fait de la nature humaine qui ne peut parvenir à sa perfection que par une formation appropriée. L’éducation reçoit ainsi une orientation différente de celle que lui avait assignée l’humanisme du XVIe siècle, aussi bien dans sa finalité que dans les méthodes préconisées. Comenius présente ainsi tout un programme d’éducation préscolaire - innovation qui est généralement ignorée. Beaucoup plus tard, Rousseau emprunta à son prédécesseur ses idées les plus solides sur l’éducation de l’enfance.

A une époque de profonds changements dans les structures sociales et dans la mentalité, l’étude de la pensée de Comenius est particulièrement stimulante et peut utilement inspirer ceux qui voudraient entreprendre une réforme du système éducatif et l’adapter à notre monde en devenir.
Assessment of Color Degradation of Wood Plastic Composites in Outdoor Applications
Authors: Vercher Jose , Diaz Arturo , Soriano Maria , Lerma Carlos
Published: January 2019

Construction sector has consumed an important percentage of natural resources and generated much of the waste discharged into the environment in the last decades. This is the reason why the social consciousness has strongly grown towards sustainable development. Concepts such as recycle, reuse, reduce and energy saving are gaining importance in obtaining products under a clearly defined objective of a sustainable development. The revaluation of agroforestry waste has established itself as a solution to the problems associated with these wastes and, increasingly, is being incorporated into the manufacture of new materials. The Wood Plastic Composites (WPC’s) are an important group within these new sustainable building materials. WPC’s are obtained from recycled plastics and natural fibres waste. This kind of materials reduces the consumption of resources and the amount of waste. These materials have emerged to replace natural wood in some exterior applications, where the durability of natural wood is most damaged. Natural wood, in addition to the loss of color that suffers in exterior, has other disadvantages such as anisotropy and hygroscopicity. WPC's do not have these drawbacks. In this way, the WPC’s try to imitate the appearance of natural wood, with a good durability outdoors. Because of this, there are numerous companies that develop WPC products with different plastics and natural waste, with the aim of obtaining the best appearance and durability. In this paper, the color degradation of various WPC materials when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is evaluated. An artificial aging chamber with a fluorescent UV lamp and a colorimeter have been used to quantify the color parameters. Thus, conclusions are drawn on which plastics and residues achieve a minor alteration of color, an aspect highly appreciated in outdoor applications.
Hygrothermal Analysis of Mineral Wool Insulated Building Constructions Based on In Situ Measurements
Authors: Nagy Balázs , Szagri Dóra , Bakonyi Dániel
Published: January 2019

The paper discusses an experimental hygrothermal analysis of differently constructed additional mineral wool wall and attic insulation of a family house in Hajdúnánás, Hungary. The walls of the building were insulated in two different ways: half of the façade was insulated with Knauf stone mineral wool insulation boards glued to the walls in a continuous mortar bed as recommended, and on the other side of the same façade, the boards were glued only with patches of mortar. In the attic of the same building, one part of the attic was insulated by using Knauf glass mineral wool insulation batts along with vapour permeable underlay membrane as recommended, while the other part was constructed without underlay. Temperature and relative humidity sensors were placed between the layers and heat flux sensors were installed on the internal surfaces of the two differently constructed wall and attic insulations. An external meteorological station was installed on an unused chimney of the building. Besides the structural sensors, temperature and relative humidity sensors were installed in each room, and the energy consumption of the building was also monitored during the measurements. For control values, we monitored the internal hygrothermal conditions and the energy consumption of an identical but uninsulated family house only 8 km away in Hajdúdorog, Hungary. In the article, we analyze the heat and moisture transport through the building constructions and the energy consumption of the family house according to the recorded data of a full heating season.
Sustainable Materials with Potential Application as Core Materials in Vacuum Insulations
Authors: Zach Jiří , Hroudová Jitka , Korjenic Azra
Published: January 2019

The trend of achieving sustainable development in the area of new, eco-friendly materials remains topical for many experts concerned with developing new materials applicable worldwide in civil engineering as well as elsewhere. Our research team has for many years been developing non-traditional materials that meet the current requirements. These materials are made with organic fibers – waste natural fibers produced by agriculture or waste industrial (locally produced) fibers. Their thermal and acoustic insulation properties are very close to those of conventional insulation materials (expanded polystyrene, extruded polystyrene, mineral wool, polyurethane foam), which are still finding broad use in the Czech Republic despite their harmful impact on the environment. The paper focuses on the various uses of several types of textile fibers (mainly by-products) in the development of modern insulation materials with a high value added. These materials bear several specific advantages over conventional insulations, which enable, among others, easier installation. Some of the newly developed insulations can also be used as core insulations in the manufacture of vacuum insulation panels (VIP).
Morpho-Structural and Chemical Composition Properties of PVP-Capped ZnO Nanoparticles Synthesized via a Simple-Polyol Method
Authors: Flores-Carrasco Gregorio , Mora J.R. , Ramírez R. , Bueno Carlos , Alcántara-Iniesta Salvador , Soto B.S. , Rabanal M.E.
Published: January 2019

In this work, we report on the processing of PVP-capped ZnO nanoparticles employing a simple-polyol method, varying only the molar concentration (0.01 and 0.1 M) of Zn(CH3COO)2•2H2O used as zinc precursor. Synthesis is performed using ethylene glycol (EG) as solvent and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as capping agent. Physico-chemical characteristics of the as-synthesized particles were studied by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). SEM micrographs revealed formation of quasi-spherical secondary particles formed by aggregation of primary nanosized subunits crystallized from 0.01 M precursor. When precursor with a higher concentration is used, no aggregation occurs and only tiny primary particles in the nanosized range are obtained. XRD confirmed that ZnO nanoparticles have the hexagonal wurtzite-type structure. SEM, EDS and FT-IR showed that applied route produced ZnO nanoparticles with functionalized surface. Presented results imply clear dependence of the particles morphology and size from precursor concentration which could be used for rapid, continuous, single-step preparation of PVP-capped ZnO nanoparticles tailored in accordance to application demands.
Growth Mechanism and Optical Properties of Nano and Microstructures of ZnO Obtained by Thermal Oxidation of Zinc Powders at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Bueno Carlos , Pacio Abraham , Osorio Edith , Alvarado Jose Alberto , Maestre David , Cremades Ana , García Jose Alejandro , Flores-Carrasco Gregorio , Juárez Hector
Published: January 2019

ZnO Nano and microstructures were obtained by thermal oxidation using Zn powders as source. To achieve those structures, the Zn powders were annealed at 650°C and 750°C under oxygen environment and atmospheric pressure. SEM results show that these experimental conditions promote the formation of hollow spherical microstructures with nanowires and nano-swords in each sphere. As was observed, the nanostructures start growing from the bottom surface of the spheres unlike those that were reported recently. The EDS results clearly show that those hollow spheres in the deep part make a compound with Zn and the top surface is mainly composed of ZnO. CL emission spectra show a main green emission that belongs to the sphere’s bottom surface; this emission is correlated to the existing defects that are presented. These results could allow the prediction of a possible growth mechanism under specific conditions.