bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying High Priority Areas for Addressing Lead-in-Water Potential in Fort Worth
Authors: Miller Annaliese , 2017 Class of
Published: September 2018

In this project, data about lead testing of drinking/drinkable water in the Fort Worth Independent School district was combined with infrastructure-related data, spatial analysis, and spatial statistics techniques to identify potential high priority areas for the city's lead pipe replacement project and for residential plumbing rennovations. 

 

Click the image below to listen to our interview with Annalise Miller on SoundCloud.
The Walk of (Body) Shame: The Detrimental Repercussions of Cyberbullying
Authors: Stacey Carly , 2017 Class of
Published: September 2018

Since the 1990s, the Internet has blossomed into a platform designed to provide access to an unlimited amount of information at the click of a putton. It did not take long for this technology to become an integral part of our social interaction. In recent years, as a pernicious consequence of the Internet's "faceless" communication, the internet has become an ideal space for cybverbullying. This research focuses specifically on the problem of "body shaming" in online spaces. The essay explores causes of cyberbullying and online body shaming in order to better understand strategies for creating mroe empathetic online spaces and to promote an culture of positive body image.
Inside the New Markets Tax Credit Program: Who is the Real Winner?
Authors: Rajabi Roshan , 2017 Class of
Published: September 2018

Congress established the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) program on December 21, 2000, as part of the Community Renewal Tax Relief Act. The purpose of the NMTC program is to encourage investment in low-income communities by providing incentives, in the form of tax credits against federal income taxes, for community development lenders and capital markets that invest in impoverished communities with limited access to capital. While the NMTC program is unfamiliar to many--even those in the commercial banking field—numerous reports exist both in favor of and in opposition to the program. Those in favor, such as reports by the NMTC Coalition and Deloitte, argue that the NMTC program has succeeded in this goal of bridging the gap between low-income community businesses and big banks. Those in favor also argue that the program should be expanded, as it has spurred investment in and brought wealth to low-income communities. Those in opposition to the NMTC program argue that NMTC projects have become overly complex and thus less transparent, the application process is too lenient, investors receive excessive returns, and other governmental funding programs perform similar functions of the NMTC. Two noteworthy arguments criticizing the program come from the Government Accountability Office and Senator Tom Coburn. After analyzing arguments both for and against, and conducting additional research, the author of this paper has found that the NMTC program appears to be functioning as intended; however, there is room for improvement. Legislation to continue and expand NMTC funding is currently pending in both chambers of Congress, which should be approved based on the program's track record of success. The demand for NMTC funding far exceeds its availability. Thus, increasing the amount of available funding would reduce the need for participants to double dip.
Editor's Note
Authors: Taylor Hannah
Published: September 2018

Hannah Taylor's Editor's Note
Techniki dyscyplinarne w przestrzeni miejskiej. Przypadek terenów nadwarciańskich w Poznaniu
Authors: Wechta Przemysław
Published: September 2018

W warstwie teoretycznej autor artykułu odwołuje się do koncepcji panoptykonu Michela Foucaulta. Obszarem badania są tereny położone nad rzeką Wartą w Poznaniu. Stanowią one przestrzeń publiczną, w pełni dostępną dla wszystkich ludzi. Posiadają jedną cechę specyficzną, która odróżnia je od innych terenów miejskich. Jest nią możliwość spożywania alkoholu, czego pra­wo zabrania w innych miejscach publicznych. Celem artykułu jest analiza technik dyscyplinujących zachowania osób przebywających na terenach nadwarciańskich stosowanych lub projektowanych przez władzę państwową i lokalną. Na podstawie badań zostały zidentyfikowane trzy tego typu techniki zarządzania przestrzenią miejską: wykorzystywanie przewagi informacyjnej, patrolowanie i monitoring, kolonizacja przestrzeni miejskiej.
Wykorzystanie funduszy europejskich w nauce zawodu na kierunku technik obsługi turystycznej w Zespole Szkół Sióstr Salezjanek im. Jana Pawła II w Suwałkach
Authors: Kalejta Joanna
Published: September 2018

Polityka Unii Europejskiej zapewnia szeroki dostęp do edukacji, zgodnie z określonymi priorytetami. Już od pierwszej perspektywy finansowej Unii szkolnictwo było szeroko omawiane i wysoko finansowane. Dzięki temu, szczególnie dzieci i młodzież mają możliwość wyrównywania różnic edukacyjnych oraz wzmocnienie swojej ścieżki zawodowej i płynnego wejścia na rynek pracy. W latach 2007–2013 w UE szczególny akcent kładziono na rozwój szkolnictwa zawodowego i to zarówno na poziomie średniego kształcenia, jak i wyższego. Obecnie nurt ten jest kontynuowany, dodatkowo z możliwością tzw. mobilności uczniów, czyli kształcenia u praco-dawców. W artykule przedstawiono trzy autorskie projekty, realizowane w Zespole Szkół Sióstr Salezjanek im. Jana Pawła II w Suwałkach w ramach funduszy europejskich w latach 2010–2017.
Legenda Ślepego Maksa jako podstawa opracowania nowego produktu turystycznego Łodzi
Authors: Kubus Artur , Łuć Bartłomiej , Minkowska Monika , Wawrzyniak Monika , Wychowaniec Aleksandra
Published: September 2018

Artykuł jest próbą zaprezentowania możliwości wykorzystania w turystyce oryginalnych wydarzeń i postaci łódzkich Bałut z okresu 20-lecia międzywojennego. Do analiz wybrano „karierę” Menachema Bornsztajna znanego w łódzkim półświatku jako Ślepy Maks. Pomimo jego ogromnej „sławy” jest on dzisiaj postacią nieznaną nawet wśród mieszkańców Starych Bałut, na których się wychował. Potwierdzają to przeprowadzone badania ankietowe wśród osób zamieszkujących tę dzielnicę. Istnieją co prawda pojedyncze wydarzenia związane z tą postacią, jednak nie tworzą one spójnego produktu turystycznego. Głównym celem artykułu jest wskazanie, w jaki sposób potencjał związany z postacią Ślepego Maksa mógłby być wykorzystany do wykreowania nowego, konkurencyjnego produktu turystycznego miasta.
Expression of the phosphorylated variant of the AKT1-kinase (p-AKT1) in well-differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors: immunohistochemical evaluation
Authors: Delektorskaya V. V. , Solov'eva O. N. , Chemeris G. Yu. , Patyutko Yu. I.
Published: September 2018

Background:Well-differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) represent a group of rare epithelial neoplasms with a highly variable clinical course. AKT1 is one of the most frequently activated protein kinases in pNETs, which promotes the tumor growth and is of interest as a prognostic factor and a target for new treatment approaches.

Aim:To study the expression of the phosphorylated variant of AKT1-kinase (p-AKT1) in primary pNETs and their liver metastases and to correlate the results with various clinical and pathological parameters and the disease prognosis.

Materials and methods:P-AKT1 expression was studied by the immunohistochemical analysis of the primary lesions and liver metastases in 52 pNETs patients.

Results:A high level of cytoplasmic and/or nuclear immunoreactivity was detected in 24/52 of the primary pNETs (46.2%) and in 16/27 of their liver metastases (59.3%). p-AKT1 expression was observed in 3 (21.4%) of NET grade (G) 1, in 14 (46.7%) of NET G2, and in 7 (87.5%) of NET G3. p-AKT1 expression was more frequently identified in pNET G3 category and increased during the tumor progression in metachronous liver metastases, as compared to the corresponding primary tumor. In addition, p-AKT1 positivity was significantly associated with an increase of grade from G1 to G3 (p = 0.004), the Ki-67 index (p = 0.029), the pTNM stage (p = 0.0008), perineural invasion (p = 0.031) and a decrease in disease-free survival (p = 0.05).

Conclusion:The results suggest that p-АКТ1 plays an important role in the pathogenesis of pNETs and may be an additional criterion for assessment of the prognosis and treatment effectiveness in this type of tumors.
Clinical and morphological characteristics of type 1 and 2 autoimmune pancreatitis
Authors: Lishchuk S. V. , Dubova Е. A. , Pavlov K. А. , Udalov Yu. D.
Published: September 2018

Rationale: In the recent years, an increased interest to autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) has been seen, related to growing diagnostic potential. In its turn, this leads to an increase in numbers of diagnosed AIP cases. At present, two types of AIP have been described with diverse clinical manifestation and morphology of the pancreas. However, the reproducibility of the differential diagnosis between AIP type 1 and 2 is low even among pancreatic pathologists.

Aim: To identify criteria for the morphologic diagnosis of AIP type 1 and 2.

Materials and methods: A morphological study of biopsy and surgical specimens from 26 patients with AIP was performed. There were 22 cases of AIP type 1 and 4 cases of AIP type 2. In addition to hematoxylin eosin staining of the specimens, immunohistochemistry was used with counting of CD138+ absolute numbers, determination of IgG+ and IgG4+ cells in the inflammatory infiltrates, as well as the ratios of IgG4+/IgG+ and IgG4+/CD138+ cells.

Results: AIP type 1 was characterized by storiform fibrosis of the pancreatic tissue (81.8% cases), involving the parapancreatic fat tissue, by moderateto-severe lymphoplasmocytic infiltration and signs of obliterative/non-obliterative phlebitis. Type 2 AIP was characterized by severe fibrosis with predominantly periductal (centrilobular) fibrosis and mild chronic inflammatory infiltration of the pancreas, while there was no extension of fibrosis and inflammatory infiltration to the parapancreatic tissues in any case. The mean number of CD138+ cell in AIP type 1 was 101.2 ± 27.9 per 1 high-power field (HPF), and in AIP type 2, it was 42.8 ± 20.9 per 1 HPF. The mean absolute number of IgG+ cells in AIP type 1 was 99.6 ± 25.7 per 1 HPF, whereas in AIP type 2, 42.1 ± 20.8 per 1 HPF. In AIP type 1, the mean number of IgG4+ plasmatic cells in the infiltrates was 74.5 ± 27.2 per 1 HPF, whereas in AIP type 2, it was 3.4 ± 2.7 per 1 HPF. The IgG4+/IgG+ ratio was 75 ± 12.6% vs. 8.4 ± 6.2%, and the IgG4+/CD138+ ratio was 72.4 ± 12.3% vs. 8.3 ± 5.9% in AIP type 1 and type 2, respectively.

Conclusion: For the differential diagnosis of type 1 and 2 AIP, it is necessary to take into consideration not only typical histological abnormalities, but also the numbers of CD138+, IgG+ and IgG4+ cells within the inflammatory infiltrate, as well as the IgG4+/IgG+ and IgG4+/CD138+ ratios.
Rare clinical cases of “combined” skin carcinomas in cadaver renal allograft recipients
Authors: Kazantseva I. A. , Gurevich L. E. , Bobrov M. А.
Published: September 2018

The most prevalent skin cancer in the transplant organ recipients is squamous cell cancer, followed by basal cell cancer. The skin cancer incidence and related mortality in the transplant organ recipient are significantly higher than those in the general population, which is to be linked with prolonged pharmaceutical immunosuppression. Multiple tumors are also typical for this patient group. The article describes two rare combinations of skin carcinomas with different histological characteristics in patients with cadaver renal allograft (CRA). Clinical case 1: A 43-year old female patient. In 2011, she was transplanted with a CRA due to end-stage renal failure caused by congenital cystic dysplasia (multicystic kidney disease), with subsequent removal of the allograft at 1.5 months after the transplantation. In 2014, she had her second CRA transplanted and until now is on immunosuppressive therapy. In 2013, the patient noticed two slowly growing masses in her right and left supraclavicular areas; they were clinically assessed as basal cell cancer and surgically resected. Histological examination of the resected skin fragments showed squamous cell carcinoma focuses in situ (Bowen's disease), with alternating superficial basalioma focuses; proliferating keratinizing squamous cell cancer with polymorphous structure, with prevailing acantholytic type, morphoeic basal cell carcinoma and basal squamous cell carcinoma were found throughout the dermal layer, up to the subcutaneous tissue. Clinical case 2: A 63-year old male patient was transplanted with CRA in 2007, due to end-stage renal failure caused by nephrolithiasis and chronic pyelonephritis. During the examination performed in 2013, a mushroom-like tumor (with a 3 cm diameter and a stipe of 1 cm in diameter, with erythematous tuberous surface) was found on the anterior neck surface, near the suprasternal notch. The tumor was surgically resected within the normal skin. Histological and immunochemical examinations showed that the mass consisted of two different tumors closely adjacent one to the other and separated by a narrow dermal layer, namely, neuroendocrine Merkel cell skin carcinoma and porocarcinoma with some signs of squamous cell and sebaceous cell differentiation.

Conclusion: The descriptions of the rare cases confirm that transplantation-related skin cancers are highly relevant. Due to continuous renewal of the tissue components that is intrinsic to this organ, and due to deterioration of the immune control over proliferation and differentiation, they are characterized by a multiplicity of histological types and an unfavorable prognosis.
Wollfian tumor: a case report and a literature review
Authors: Dubova E. A. , Pavlov К. A. , Lishchuk S. V. , Tertychnyi A. S. , Bakhvalova A. A. , Bryunin D. V.
Published: September 2018

Wolffian tumor is a rare neoplasm arising from mesonephric duct remnants. Not more than 100 cases of the disease have been described. The authors present their own clinical observation of the Wolffian tumor in a 43-year old female patient. Radiological examinations resulted in the suspicion of a subserous leiomyoma of the uterus; however, the surgery showed a mass arising from the fallopian tube wall. Histologically, there was a growing tumor within the fallopian tube wall with no mucosal lesions. The tumor consisted of myxomatous stroma with cribriform, solid and reticular areas composed of relatively monomorphic, mildly eosinophilic cells with monotonous nuclei and single mitoses. On immunohistochemistry, the tumor cells expressed vimentin, pan-cytokeratin, cytokeratin 7 and calretinin. This case illustrates that final verification and differential diagnosis of the tumor with other fallopian tube neoplasms, including malignancies, is only possible with an immunohistochemical study.
Kaposi’s sarcoma with the eyelid involvement (6 clinical cases)
Authors: Grishina E. E.
Published: September 2018

Kaposi's sarcoma is a multifocal tumor from vascular endothelium with a low grade of malignancy. It develops due to underlying immune deficiency and is associated with human herpesvirus 8. Kaposi's sarcoma of the eyelids is rare, and its diagnosis can be difficult both for ophthalmologists and oncodermatologists. The paper describes six clinical cases of Kaposi's sarcoma with involvement of the eyelids. Three patients had an HIV-associated type of the tumor. One patient had an immunosuppressive type of the tumor during immunosuppressive treatment after kidney transplantation. Two elderly patients had Kaposi's sarcoma of the classic type. Tumors of the eyelids developed after several years of skin involvement. All patients had advanced (nodular) stage of Kaposi's sarcoma of the eyelids, whereas the skin tumors looked as spots (maculas) or papules (macular or papular stage of the disease). The eyelid tumor presented as an extensive dark red tumor nodule distinctly separate from the adjacent tissues. In all cases, the eyelid tumor was big and hindered the sight. All the patients were treated by an oncodermatologist and/or a specialist in infectious diseases, depending on the clinical type of the disease. Kaposi's sarcoma rarely involves the eyelid skin or conjunctiva; however, in immunodeficient patients it must be included into the list for the differential diagnosis of eyelid tumors.
Autismo e as possibilidades de ensino visando o desenvolvimento lógico matemático
Authors: Mazzo Suellen Contri , Centurión Rebeca Beatriz Mareco , Dos Santos Raquel Pierini Lopes
Published: September 2018

O presente trabalho foi elaborado por meio do Projeto Institucional de Bolsa de Iniciação à Docência (Pibid), oferecido pela Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (Capes) em uma escola na cidade de Engenheiro Coelho, interior de São Paulo. O trabalho desenvolvido objetiva analisar possibilidades de ensino visando o desenvolvimento lógico matemático por alunos autistas. Será apresentada a seguir uma breve explanação de como são as crianças com Transtorno do Espectro do Autismo e de como podem construir conhecimentos significativos, possibilitando o aprendizado na disciplina de matemática ao manipularem objetos concretos, jogos e material dourado. Também serão apresentadas estratégias de ensino que envolvem o lúdico em sala de aula para auxiliar o crescimento intelectual dos alunos com necessidades educacionais especiais. Entende-se que há necessidade de mais profissionais utilizarem ferramentas lúdicas, jogos e materiais concretos com crianças que apresentam Transtorno do Espectro do Autismo, procurando potencializar o conhecimento de conceitos e desenvolver o raciocínio lógico matemático, pois todo o discente tem o direito de ter seu potencial explorado e de receber uma educação de qualidade. Metodologicamente este trabalho foi realizado por intermédio de pesquisa bibliográfica. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram a importância de o professor verificar suas estratégias de ensino ao trabalhar a disciplina de matemática com alunos deficientes.
Universidade da Terceira Idade: Benefícios e Possibilidades para os Idosos
Authors: Viana Helena Brandão
Published: September 2018

O ser humano está sempre se desenvolvendo e só atingirá seu ápice em alguns aspectos, na velhice, na idade madura, pois enquanto estiver vivo, poderá estar se desenvolvendo e, portanto seu papel na sociedade continuará de extrema importância e deverá ser valorizado mesmo que sua contribuição não seja mais no mercado de trabalho produtivo e industrial, mas certamente o será na transmissão de seus valores culturais e morais aos seus filhos e netos, valores esses imprescindíveis na formação de caráter de nossas crianças e jovens. Este trabalho traz o relato de uma experiência de implantação de projetos voltados à população idosa e apresenta os benefícios que a educação oferecida ao público adulto e principalmente aos idosos pode promover. Todas as Instituições de Ensino Superior poderiam possuir projetos voltados a essa coorte, possibilitando o acesso dessa população a informações que poderiam melhorar sua Qualidade de Vida.
BIOMECHANIC STUDY OF GRAFT BONE TUNNEL MODEL IN ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION USING INTRATUNNEL ALLOGENIC BONE MARROW MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS (BM-MSCs) AND VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GROWTH FACTOR (VEGF)
Authors: Faridyan Brian Vicky
Published: September 2018

Successful anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using tendon graft requires good and rapid integration between the tendon graft and the bone tunnel. The strength of the tendon-bone tunnel graft in the initial phase is very important to facilitate aggressive rehabilitation and as early as possible to support rapid recovery to normal activities. The objective of this study was to determine ultimate tension strength (UTS) on the femoral tendon-bone tunnel graft model after reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) by administering allogenic bone marrow mesenchymal stemcells (BM-MSCs) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) intratunnel in experimental animals. The design of this research was Post-Test Only Control Group Design using 24 rabbits divided into treatment and control group. Biomechanical evaluation was done at week 3 and 6. Evaluation at week 3 found ultimate tension strength of treatment group significantly higher than control (p <0,05). In the 6th week evaluation, Ultimate tension strength was found that the treatment group significantly higher than the control group (p <0.05). Ultimate tension strength at week 3 did not differ significantly with week 6 (p> 0.05). Intravenous administration of BM-MSCs and VEGF on ACL reconstruction increased ultimate tension strength in graft-bone tunnel significantly since week 3. The study of Ferdiansis et al using BM-MSCs and VEGF intraarticular, only showed a significant increase in ultimate tension strength in graft-bone tunnel since week 6. Comparison of this method indicates acceleration in incorporation of tendon graft with bone tunnel on intratunnel method better thaninvitro intraarticular method.Keywords : Anterior cruciate ligament, allogenic bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, vascular endothelial growth factor and biomechanic study.
Participatory Practice in Zambia: Pitfalls and Hopes for Tomorrow
Authors: Mpolomoka Daniel L. , Luchembe Musonda , Banda Selina , Sampa Peter , Ngambi Stabile Namwai , Mundia Maria Lungowe
Published: September 2018

This paper is informed by findings of a study which sought to explore citizen participation in Zambia. The paper used a phenomenological design. Qualitative data was collected and analysed using emerging themes. The results revealed that many Zambian citizens do not participate in developmental and economic activities, projects and programmes due to lack of development prevailing in most parts of the country, and in particular the high levels of economic stress that are felt at individual and household levels. The inability to implement the sound choices and policy decisions craft by central government though a number of policies, ratifications and deliberate initiatives that the country has assented to, aimed at encouraging participatory practice. This has also caused citizens to lose trust in legislatures. At local level, the majority of citizens have inadequate access to basic social and economic services to live dignified lives. Government’s inability to provide such services has made citizens not to see the need to participate in any developmental programmes. With all such situations, Zambian citizens are discouraged to participate in the governance of the country and therefore, participatory practices fail.
Individual Responses in the Domestic Horse Regarding Human Behaviour in Identical Settings
Authors: Schütz Kathrin , Rötters Annika , Oebel Lara
Published: September 2018

Although there has been research regarding the response of horses to human behaviour, there is still a gap concerning the knowledge about the interaction of horses and humans in showing individual responses to different human behaviour in the same situation. In this work, the horses´ individual responses to different humans were examined to close this research gap and to identify whether or not  horses actually respond differently to different people. To this end, 29 interactions between horses and humans, where the humans were supposed to lead the horse through a training course (including two identical exercises in each situation) were videoed and then transcribed in the style of the action-oriented system of notations HANOS (Handlungsorientiertes Notationssystem). The qualitative content analysis was appropriated on the basis of Mayring. Just nonverbal interactions between each person and one horse were focused. In total, just under 600 interactions were analyzed and categorized. The categories were then put into a chi-square-test (quantitative analyses). Based on these analyses, it can be assumed that each human individual received an individual, different feedback from the horses.
Characterization of Keratinophilic Fungal Species and Other Non-Dermatophytes in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alwakeel Suaad
Published: September 2018

Background: The presence of fungal species on the surface skin and hair is a known finding in many mammalian species and humans are no exception. Superficial fungal infections are sometimes a chronic and recurring condition that affects approximately 10-20% of the world’s population. However, most species that are isolated from humans tend to occur as co-existing flora. This study was conducted to determine the diversity of fungal species isolated from the hair and nails of workers in the central region of Saudi Arabia where there are not many observational studies on the mycological species. Materials and Methods: Male workers from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia were recruited for this study and samples were obtained from their nails and hair for mycological analysis which was done using Saboraud’s agar and sterile wet soil. Fungal isolates were examined microscopically. Results: Twenty four hair samples yielded a total of 26 species from 19 fungal genera. Chaetomiumglobosum was the most commonly isolated fungal species followed by Emericellanidulans, Cochliobolusneergaardii, and Penicilliumoxalicum. Three fungal species were isolated from nail samples, namely, Alternariaalternata, Aureobasidiumpullulans, and Penicilliumchrysogenum. Most of the isolated fungal species (17 of the 26 or 65.38% of the isolated fungal species) have not been thoroughly characterised nor morphologically classified. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the presence of previously undescribed fungal species that contribute to the normal flora of the skin and its appendages and may have a role in their pathogenies.
Crowdsourcing - a New Paradigm of Organisational Learning of Public Organisation
Authors: Lenart-Gansiniec Regina , Sułkowski Łukasz
Published: September 2018

Crowdsourcing is one of the new themes that has appeared in the last decade. Considering its potential, more and more organisations reach for it. It is perceived as an innovative method that can be used for problem solving, improving business processes, creating open innovations, building a competitive advantage, and increasing transparency and openness of the organisation. Crowdsourcing is also conceptualised as a source of a knowledge-based organisation. The importance of crowdsourcing for organisational learning is seen as one of the key themes in the latest literature in the field of crowdsourcing. Since 2008, there has been an increase in the interest of public organisations in crowdsourcing and including it in their activities. This article is a response to the recommendations in the subject literature, which states that crowdsourcing in public organisations is a new and exciting research area. The aim of the article is to present a new paradigm that combines crowdsourcing levels with the levels of learning. The research methodology is based on an analysis of the subject literature and exemplifications of organisations which introduce crowdsourcing. This article presents a cross-sectional study of four Polish municipal offices that use four types of crowdsourcing, according to the division by J. Howe: collective intelligence, crowd creation, crowd voting, and crowdfunding. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the management personnel of those municipal offices. The research results show that knowledge acquired from the virtual communities allows the public organisation to anticipate changes, expectations, and needs of citizens and to adapt to them. It can therefore be considered that crowdsourcing is a new and rapidly developing organisational learning paradigm.
Experimental and Numerical Comparison the Velocity of Elastic Waves in Nanofibers Networks to Mechanical Characterization
Authors: Zurita Olivia , Navarrete Margarita
Published: September 2018

For development and successful application of any material, a clear understanding of their mechanical behavior is one of the most important things, but when it comes to nanofibers networks it become a challenge due to, their high porosity, many scales in their structure, and characteristics non-linear. Therefore, an experimental methodology in conjunction with a theoretical model that can fully consider their characteristics is still needed. In this work we proposed a model that incorporates the propagation of the elastic waves in two-phase media to determine the effective elastic modulus of electrospun membranes of PLA/gelatin given the mechanical properties of nanofibers, shape, distribution and concentration. The model was verified via laser ultrasonic testing. It was found that the values predicted for the effective modulus by the model were higher than the values obtained from experimental results. One explanation is due to the experimental density. As a result, the P-Wave velocity from the model best fit to experimental results and it has the same behavior, decrees as the concentration of gelatin in the solution. These results indicate the model and experimental methodology can assist in the dressing of nanofibers networks and electrospun materials.
Interfacial Gap Assessment of Two Dental Adhesives and Polymer-Based Resin Composites Using Cross-Polarization Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Bakhsh Turki A. , Alturkstani Halah M. , Alharbi Razan , Alrefai Hind , Badeeb Tahani , Altouki Nour , Jamleh Ahmed
Published: September 2018

Objectives: The current study aimed to compare the adaptation of the restored class-I cavities with two self-etch adhesives bonded to two resin composite using cross-polarization optical coherence tomography (CP-OCT). Materials and Methods: Cylindrical class-I cavities were prepared on twenty, extracted human premolars. Two self-etch adhesives; Clearfil SE bond 2 (SE; Kuraray Noritake Dental, Japan) and Bond Force (Palfique Bond) adhesive (PL; Tokuyama Dental, Japan) were used in this study that were bonded to either resin composites materials; Herculite XRV microhybrid dental composite (HRV; Kerr, Italy) or Estelite Alpha composite (ESA; Tokuyama Dental, Japan). The specimens were divided into four groups (n=5); SE-HRV, SE-ESA, PL-HRV and PL-ESA. All specimens were varnished and stored in distilled water for 24h. Then, they were submerged in a contrasting medium. After that, all groups were optically imaged under CP-OCT at every 250 µm interval distance. Later, image binarization and gap quantification were carried out using Image analysis software. Result: There was a significant difference between all the groups except between SE-ESA and PL-ESA (p = 0.51). The highest median gap % was seen in PL-HRV group followed by SE-ESA, PL-ESA and SE-HRV. Conclusion: Other than composite filler loading and adhesive formula, the interactions of the adhesive and composite copolymers have great influence on composite adaptation.
Generalization of Nambu-Hamilton Equation and Extension of Nambu-Poisson Bracket to Superspace
Authors: Abramov Viktor
Published: September 2018

We propose a generalization of Nambu-Hamilton equation in superspace $\mathbb R^{3|2}$ with three real and two Grassmann coordinates. We construct the even degree vector field in the superspace $\mathbb R^{3|2}$ by means of the right-hand sides of proposed generalization of Nambu-Hamilton equation and show that this vector field is divergenceless in superspace. Then we show that our generalization of Nambu-Hamilton equation in superspace leads to family of ternary brackets of even degree functions defined with the help of Berezinian. This family of ternary brackets is parametrized by the infinite dimensional group of invertible second order matrices, whose entries are differentiable functions on the space $\mathbb R^{3}$. We study the structure of ternary bracket in a more general case of a superspace $\mathbb R^{n|2}$ with $n$ real and two Grassmann coordinates and show that for any invertible second order functional matrix it splits into the sum of two ternary brackets, where one is usual Nambu-Poisson bracket, extended in a natural way to even degree functions in a superspace $\mathbb R^{n|2}$, and the second is a new ternary bracket, which we call $\Psi$-bracket, where $\Psi$ can be identified with invertible second order functional matrix. We prove that ternary $\Psi$-bracket as well as the whole ternary bracket (the sum of $\Psi$-bracket with usual Nambu-Poisson bracket) is totally skew-symmetric, satisfies the Leibniz rule and the Filippov-Jacobi identity (Fundamental Identity).
High-throughput Genome Editing Tools for Lactic Acid Bacteria: Opportunities for Food, Feed, Pharma and Biotech
Authors: Börner Rosa Aragão , Kandasamy Vijayalakshmi , Axelsen Amalie Melton , Nielsen Alex Toftgaard , Bosma Elleke F
Published: September 2018

This mini-review provides an overview of traditional, emerging, and future applications of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and discusses how genome editing tools can be used to overcome current challenges in all these applications. It also describes currently available tools and how these can be further developed, and takes current legislation into account. Genome editing tools are necessary for the construction of strains for new applications and products, but can also play a crucial role in traditional ones, such as food and probiotics, as a research tool for understanding mechanistic insights and discovering new properties. Traditionally, recombinant DNA techniques for LAB have strongly focused on being food-grade, but they lack throughput and the number of genetically tractable strains is still rather limited. Further tool development in this direction will enable rapid construction of multiple mutants or mutant libraries on a genomic level in a wide variety of LAB strains. We also propose an iterative Design-Build-Test-Learn workflow cycle for LAB cell factory development based on systems biology, with “cell factory” expanding beyond its traditional meaning of production strains and making use of high-throughput genome editing tools to advance LAB understanding, applications and strain development.
Examining the Impact of Workplace Spirituality and Procedural Justice on Work Locus of Control, Employee Job Satisfaction, and Employee Organisational Commitment
Authors: Maziriri Eugine Tafadzwa , Mapuranga Miston , Madinga Nkosivile Welcome
Published: September 2018

The present examination explored the impact of

work spirituality and procedural justice on work locus of control, worker work fulfillment and representative authoritative duty among workers from private establishments of high learning in South Africa. Due to limited researches that have concentrated on the impact of workplace spirituality and procedural justice on work locus of control, employee job satisfaction and employee organisational commitment in developing countries especially in Southern Africa. A review was done and information was accumulated by methods for surveys on a sample of 150 academics and support staff in a private university setting in Gauteng, South Africa. Structural equation modelling was employed to analyse data using the Smart Partial Least Squares (PLS) software. By means of a partial least squares structural equation modeling approach, this study validates that elements such as workplace spirituality, procedural justice and work locus of control are instrumental in stimulating the employee job satisfaction and employee job commitment. The present investigation offers suggestions for academicians in the field of resource management by upgrading their comprehension of the how workplace spirituality and procedural justice impacts work locus of control, employee job satisfaction and employee organisational commitment
Exploring the Aortic Root Diameter and left Ventricle Size Among Lithuanian Athletes
Authors: Žumbakytė-Šermukšnienė Renata , Slapšinskaitė Agnė , Baranauskaitė Miglė , Borkytė Julija , Sederevičiūtė Rasa , Berškienė Kristina
Published: September 2018

Aortic rupture is known as one of the potential causes of sudden cardiac death in athletes. Nevertheless, adaptation strategies for aortic root dilation in athletes vary. The purpose of this study was to investigate aortic root adaptation to physical workload and to determine if aortic root’s and left ventricle sizes are contingent upon the physical workload. Echocardiography was applied to 151 subjects to measure the aortic root at aortic valve annulus (AA) and at sinus of Valsalva (VS). 122 were athletes (41 females and 81 males) and 29 were non-athletes (14 females and 15 males). Of the 41 female athletes, 32 were endurance athletes, and 9 strength athletes. From 81 male athletes, 56 were endurance athletes, and 25 were strength athletes. AA and VS mean values for the body surface area were presented as rAA and rVS. Left ventricle (LV) meaures incuded LV end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD), interventricular septum thickness in diastole (IVSTd), LV posterior wall thickness in diastole (LVPWTd), LV mass (LVM), LV mass index, LV end-diastolic diameter index (LVEDDI). Results indicated that VS was higher in female athletes (28.9±2.36mm) than in non-athletes (27.19±2.87mm, p=0.03). On the other hand, rAA was higher in strength athletes (12.19±1.48mm/m2) than in endurance athletes (11.12±0.99mm/m2, p=0.04). Additionally, rVS and rAA were higher in female strength athletes (17.19±1.78mm/m2, 12.19±1.48mm/m2) than female basketball players (15.49±1.08mm/m2, p=0.03, 10.75±1.06 mm/m2, p=0.02). Statistically significant positive moderate correlations were found between VS and LVEDD, LVM, IVSTd, LVPWTd, rVS and LVEDDI parameters in all athletes. The diameter of Valsalva sinus was greater in female athletes compared to non-athletes. The rAA mean value for body surface area was greater in female athletes practising strength sports as compared to their counterparts who were practising endurance sports. The diameter of the aortic root at sinuses positively correlated with the LV size in all athletes. Trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03656861, September 3, 2018 (retrospectively registered).
Introduction to Quantum Field Theory in C4 Space-Time
Authors: Mastoridis Dimitris , Kalogirou K.
Published: September 2018

We explore the possibility to nd the usual quantum theories, within the formulation of a classic theory of mechanics in C4. Specically, by releasing the end-point of the integral of the action derived in C4, we derive the dynamic path length of the geodesic equation in C4. In the at case, the derived Hamilton-Jacobi equations, were identied as the usual Klein-Gordon equation, where the complex functional action S(zi), is identied as the usual complex scalar field φ. Afterwards, we study the energy-momentum 4-d complexvector, in order to re-establish the usual covariant derivative of gauge theories.
Dynamic Path in C4 Space-Time
Authors: Mastoridis Dimitris , Kalogirou K.
Published: September 2018

After developed the formulation of a "general relativity" in C4 [2], we proceed with the formulation of a Hamilton-Jacobi equation in C4. We argue that in this consideration, the usual problems of the ADM formalism, do not exist, due to the complex time as it exists in our consideration. Specically, we can derive a suitable dispersion relation in order to work with and nd a generalised super Hamiltonian
Introduction to Fermionic Structures in C4 Space-Time
Authors: Mastoridis Dimitris , Kalogirou K.
Published: September 2018

We explore several ways, in order to include fermionic structures naturally in a physical theory in C4. We begin with the standard Dirac formalism and we proceed by using Cartan's property of triality as a second option. Afterwards, we suggest a new approach (in a preliminary basis), by introducing an 1-linear form, as the "square root of the geometry" derived by the usual 2-linear forms (quadratic forms). Keeping this way, we introduce n-linear forms, in order to formulate a new geometric structure, which could be suitable for the formulation of a pure geometric unied theory.
Using Near-Infrared Laser Activated Chitosan-Ashwagandha Nanoparticles as Tumor Targeting
Authors: Abuelmakarem Hala S. , Sliem Mahmoud A. , El-Azab Jala , Farghaly Moustafa M.A , M.A Om-Hashem , Ahmed Wafaa A.
Published: September 2018

In this study, three types of nanocomposites (Chitosan –TPP nanoparticles (C-TPP NPs), Chitosan-Ashwagandha nanoparticles (Ash-C NPs), and chitosan-Ashwagandha-TPP nanoparticles (C-Ash–TPP NPs)) were synthesized for targeting cancer colon (Caco-2) cell line. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis was applied to get the IR bands of the functional groups for each of Ashwagandha root water extract (ASH R WEX), Chitosan (c), and the numerous synthesized nanocomposites. Nanoparticles (NPs) were characterized by using Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Zeta Potential (ZP) and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM). Two Groups of cancer therapy were applied to Caco-2 cells. In the first Group, the effectiveness of the synthesized NPs was observed without laser irradiation. the second Group, the effectiveness of the synthesized NPs was observed in the case of laser irradiation (660 nm diode laser, 5 min).  On the other hand, the cell viability for Caco-2 cells exposed to low-level laser therapy was observed. The Cytotoxicity was analyzed by MTT assay and the cell viability was examined by the trypan blue method. The MTT assay showed increased cytotoxicity for each group of the treatment. Also, the results showed that the synthesized nanocomposites caused a decrease in cell viability in the two treatment groups and, in the case of laser irradiation lonely.
The Emerging Landscape of Epidemiological Research Based on Biobanks Linked to Electronic Health Records: Existing Resources, Analytic Challenges and Potential Opportunities
Authors: Beesley Lauren , Salvatore Maxwell , Fritsche Lars , Pandit Anita , Rao Arvind , Brummett Chad , Willer Cristen J. , Lisabeth Lynda D. , Mukherjee Bhramar
Published: September 2018

Biobanks linked to electronic health records provide a rich data resource for health-related research. With the establishment of large-scale infrastructure, the availability and utility of data from biobanks has dramatically increased over time. As more researchers become interested in using biobank data to explore a diverse spectrum of scientific questions, resources guiding the data access, design, and analysis of biobank-based studies will be crucial.  The first aim of this review is to characterize the types of biobanks that are discussed in the recent literature and provide detailed descriptions of specific biobanks including their location, size, data access, data linkages and more. The development and accessibility of large-scale biorepositories provide the opportunity to accelerate agnostic searches, new discoveries, and hypothesis-generating studies of disease-treatment, disease-exposure and disease-gene associations. Rather than spending time and money designing and implementing a single study with pre-defined objectives, researchers can use biobanks’ existing data-rich resources to answer scientific questions as quickly as they can analyze them. While the data are becoming increasingly available, additional thought is needed to address issues related to the design of such studies and analysis of these data. In the second aim of this review, we discuss statistical issues related to biobank research in general including study design, sampling strategy, phenotype identification, and missing data. These issues are illustrated using data from the Michigan Genomics Initiative, UK Biobank, and Genes for Good. We summarize the current body of statistical literature aimed at addressing some of these challenges and discuss some of the standing open problems in this area. This work serves to complement and extend recent reviews about biobank-based research and aims to provide a resource catalog with statistical and practical guidance to researchers pursuing biobank-based research.
Cost-effective, Highly Selective and Environmentally Friendly Superhydrophobic Absorbent from Cigarette Filters for Oil Spillage Cleanup
Authors: Xiong Qiancheng , Bai Qiuhong , Li Cong , Lei Huan , Liu Chaoyun , Shen Yehua , Uyama Hiroshi
Published: September 2018

Ecological and environmental damage caused by oil spillage has attracted great attention. Used cigarette filter (CF) has also caused negative environmental consequences. Converting CF to economical materials is a feasible way to address these problems. In this study, we demonstrate a simple method for production of a highly hydrophobic absorbent from CF. CF was modified by using different volume ratios of octadecyltrichlorosilane and methyltrimethoxysilane. When the volume ratio was 3:2, the modified CF had the high water contact angle of 155°. It could selectively and completely absorb silicone oil from an oil-water mixture and showed a good absorption capacity of 38.3 g/g. The absorbed oil was readily and rapidly recovered by simple mechanical squeezing, and it could be reused immediately without any additional treatments. The as-obtained superhydrophobic modified CF retained an absorption capacity of 80% for pump oil and 82% for silicone oil after 10 cycles. The modified CF showed good elasticity in the test of repeated use. The present study provides novel design of a functional material for development of hydrophobic absorbents from used CF via a facile method toward oil spillage cleanup as well as a new recycling method of CF to alleviate the environmental impact.
Co-Operation among Irish Beef Farmers: Current Perspectives and Future Prospects in the Context of New Producer Organisation (PO) Legislation
Authors: Hooks Teresa , Macken-Walsh Aine , McCarthy Olive , Power Carol , Henchion Maeve
Published: September 2018

Irish beef farms have experienced poor viability longitudinally, with officially acknowledged ‘crisis’ levels in 2013. In response, beef Producer Organisation (PO) legislation was introduced. Through the lens of international evidence in the literature about how POs function, this paper presents an analysis of Irish stakeholders’ views in the context of a public consultation process. While stakeholders indicate the need for individual POs to collaborate, little emphasis is placed on other factors necessary for success: collaboration with other chain actors; and market differentiation of products. Stakeholders identified primary threats as poor engagement on the part of both farmers and processors/purchasers.
The Impact of UEFA Financial Fair Play Regulation on Audit Fees: Evidence from Spanish Football
Authors: Mareque Mercedes , Barajas Angel , Lopez-Corrales Francisco
Published: September 2018

This paper analyzes if the Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations set by UEFA have influenced the auditing fees charged to the football clubs. In addition, it explores the determinants of audit fees. We use a two-sample t test with equal variances to determine whether differences are present. After this, we carry out a panel data regression with clubs fix effect to estimate the determinants of audit fees in football clubs. Our findings reveal an increase of audit fees after the implementation of FFP regulations. On top of that, audit fees are explained by the presence of foreign investors if the audit firm is one of the Big4 and if the auditor is a woman. The regulation change has an impact on the audit fees charged by auditors for their services. However, this increase can be compensated across future years given the improving financial situation of clubs; therefore, the auditors’ risk diminishes and subsequent audit fees may be reduced. UEFA should monitor audit fees as well as the quality of the audit reports, which have become crucial to obtaining the license to participate in UEFA competitions.