Journal articles on the topic 'Knowledge driven CAD'

According to the characters of mechanical product design, product design knowledge is classified into explicit knowledge and indefinite knowledge. A knowledge-driven product design system model was proposed based on the knowledge management. To meet the normal product design process, the design system structure was built on four layers. A mixed knowledge reasoning strategy was proposed, which is combined by design cases, models, and rules. The system provides a public integration interface, so different design tools such as UG NX, Catia and Pro-E can be applied. To resolve the design conflict in product design process, a collaborative design technique was put forward that the CAD, CAPP, CAM engineers worked togeth

The purpose of this study was to construct a knowledge-based CAD/KBE system for the optimal design of golf heads. The inability of conventional CAD systems to identify existing knowledge during design and manufacturing processes is a current development bottleneck. Therefore, this study attempted to effectively introduce and integrate KBE technology into a CAD system, so as to achieve the objective of knowledge driven automation (KDA). This study selected golf iron heads with a complex-design surface as the research subject, adopted commercial CAD software (UG/NX) and its secondary development environment as a platform and applied perturbation vectors in the control of NURBS free-form surfaces. We changed the CAD’s entity shapes and physical properties, integrated the optimal principle of design with a CAD solid model, to automatically drive the CAD solid model of golf iron heads according to the design objectives, and constructed a knowledge-based optimal CAD design technology.

A generalized approach to fast interpretation of objects and their features has so far eluded researchers. In manufacturing, this interpretation can be approached from the vision point of view or from the CAD data perspective. Presently, CAD systems are widely used in several aspects of manufacturing production. It is therefore more efficient to use CAD data for object reasoning in manufacturing, especially when systems will eventually be data driven. Components can be modelled on a CAD system using various modelling techniques and the representation of their geometric information is still CAD system dependent. However, the advent of the Initial Graphics Exchange Specification (IGES) now makes it possible to represent CAD data in a neutral and standard manner.This paper describes a scheme for recognizing and representing features for CAD data extracted using the IGES interface. The concepts developed are based on graph-based feature representation, where features are represented by a set of faces as well as their topological adjacency.Strategies for classifying features and methods of decomposing a complicated feature into several simpler features for recognition purposes are discussed.

Computer-aided detection (CAD) of lobulation can help radiologists to diagnose/detect lung diseases easily and accurately. Compared to CAD of nodule and other lung lesions, CAD of lobulation remained an unexplored problem due to very complex and varying nature of lobulation. Thus, many state-of-the-art methods could not detect successfully. Hence, we revisited classical methods with the capability of extracting undulated characteristics and designed a sliding window based framework for lobulation detection in this paper. Under the designed framework, we investigated three categories of lobulation classification algorithms: template matching, feature based classifier, and bending energy. The resultant detection algorithms were evaluated through experiments on LISS database. The experimental results show that the algorithm based on combination of global context feature and BOF encoding has best overall performance, resulting inF1score of 0.1009. Furthermore, bending energy method is shown to be appropriate for reducing false positives. We performed bending energy method following the LIOP-LBP mixture feature, the average positive detection per image was reduced from 30 to 22, andF1score increased to 0.0643 from 0.0599. To the best of our knowledge this is the first kind of work for direct lobulation detection and first application of bending energy to any kind of lobulation work.

In the context of fashion/textile innovations towards Industry 4.0, a variety of digital technologies, such as 3D garment CAD, have been proposed to automate, optimize design and manufacturing processes in the organizations of involved enterprises and supply chains as well as services such as marketing and sales. However, the current digital solutions rarely deal with key elements used in the fashion industry, including professional knowledge, as well as fashion and functional requirements of the customer and their relations with product technical parameters. Especially, product design plays an essential role in the whole fashion supply chain and should be paid more attention to in the process of digitalization and intelligentization of fashion companies. In this context, we originally developed an interactive fashion and garment design system by systematically integrating a number of data-driven services of garment design recommendation, 3D virtual garment fitting visualization, design knowledge base, and design parameters adjustment. This system enables close interactions between the designer, consumer, and manufacturer around the virtual product corresponding to each design solution. In this way, the complexity of the product design process can drastically be reduced by directly integrating the consumer’s perception and professional designer’s knowledge into the garment computer-aided design (CAD) environment. Furthermore, for a specific consumer profile, the related computations (design solution recommendation and design parameters adjustment) are performed by using a number of intelligent algorithms (BIRCH, adaptive Random Forest algorithms, and association mining) and matching with a formalized design knowledge base. The proposed interactive design system has been implemented and then exposed through the REST API, for designing garments meeting the consumer’s personalized fashion requirements by repeatedly running the cycle of design recommendation—virtual garment fitting—online evaluation of designer and consumer—design parameters adjustment—design knowledge base creation, and updating. The effectiveness of the proposed system has been validated through a business case of personalized men’s shirt design.

This paper takes UGNX6.0 as the development platform, by using its UG/KF development tools, fusing feature and knowledge together, so as to realize the process associated with the geometric design knowledge and stamping process design. Based on the features of stamping process, the classification of stamping process knowledge has been studied. With the object-oriented method, the rule-based and instance-based technology for expressing and acquiring the stamping process knowledge is discussed. Based on this, the stamping process model driven by knowledge has been established. It showed the importance of the CAD technology in designing of relatively complex progressive dies. Based on the knowledge engineering process designed, the degree of intelligence stampings process design has been enhanced, design quality and efficiency has been improved, and the dependence of the process design experience of designers has been reduced.

UGNX6.0 is used as the development platform by its UG/KF development tools, fusing feature and knowledge together, so as to realize the process associated with the geometric design knowledge and stamping process design. Based on the features of stamping process, the classification of stamping process knowledge has been studied. With the object-oriented method, the rule-based and instance-based technology for expressing and acquiring the stamping process knowledge is discussed. Based on this, the stamping process model driven by knowledge has been established. A bending sheet was taken as an example in introducing the designing process of progressive die based on UG_PDW. The process arrangement was mainly introduced, and the bending part feature recognition and modeling were all elaborated and related examples were given in the paper. It showed the importance of the CAD technology in designing of relatively complex progressive dies.

Virtual Prototyping (VP) is a data-driven design process that promotes both knowledge reuse and innovation. High-profile applications in the automotive and aerospace industries have demonstrated its potential to significantly reduce prototype cycles, time to market, and total product cost. This paper addresses VP as a specialized application of Decision-Support Systems, and discusses common requirements for engineering design tools, as well as requirements specific to the design of electronic products, such as mobile phones. Motorola Labs' test bed for VP is introduced in terms of its open, agent-based architecture utilizing Java CORBA. One of the key principles of the VP System is the reuse of expert knowledge across multiple engineering domains. This is highlighted via several use cases, showing that the system can function not only as an Intranet-accessible repository of model services but also as an integral part of decision-making within the native CAD environment.

AbstractHealth assessment of electric motors is a research topic of high relevance in the area of structural mechanics. In the early days, the health state of an electric motor was mainly determined by empirical knowledge. But this paradigm is shifting to advanced methods of predicting the health of single components of an electric motor using its physical simulation models from the design phase. However, the process of creating the models to become usable during operation is laborious and in many cases no simulation or even 3D-CAD models from the design phase are available. This article focuses on a combination of a physics-based and data-driven estimation of the motor health, especially for motors where no information from the design phase is available. In particular, the advancements of the development of the hybrid fusion method moSAIc are presented. moSAIc allows to transfer the knowledge inherent in physical degradation models of motors to unknown derivatives. The experiments show that the accuracy and robustness of moSAIc is significantly better compared to results of earlier stages.

This paper discusses a method for intelligent computer modeling of engineering objects by extended application of advanced effective entities as features for intent of engineers, behavior of modeled objects, and adaptivities. These and other descriptions are organized in engineering process oriented environment adaptive model objects. Knowledge is defined for engineering activities by using intent of humans. Model objects apply embedded, integrated, and referred knowledge representations according to the source and nature of design intent. Behaviors of the modeled engineering objects are simulated for typical sets of circumstances called as situations. Results of a simulation are evaluated then applied at adaptive actions by the model objects. In this way, a solution has been stablished for human intent driven control of decision assistance. This paper starts with an introduction of a multilevel modeling in which knowledge represents human intent. Following this, process of modeling by human intent as well as essential approaches for creation and application of design intent description in decision making are outlined. Next, application of integrated and environment adaptive model object is proposed and a four leveled modeling by behavior and associativity features is explained. Finally, selected issues for implementation of the proposed modeling in CAD/CAM environments are concluded.

The manufacturing enterprises are now experiencing high pressure of competition. In addition, the advancement in computer software, hardware, networks, information technologies and integration has been gradually reshaping the manufacturing companies by shifting from the industrial age to the information and knowledge era. Due to these elevated competitiveness and advanced computer technology, a number of new manufacturing and management strategies (e.g., Lean production, Just in time, Kaizen, Concurrent Engineering (CE), Cellular Manufacturing (CM), Agile manufacturing, Business process re-engineering (BPR), Agent-based systems (ABS), Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM), virtual manufacturing system have emerged for the innovation of manufacturing industries. The developments in organizational concepts created new concepts such as Smart organizations, Centers of excellence, Intelligent enterprises, Integrated enterprises, Virtual enterprises, Virtual enterprises networks, Dynamic enterprises, Extended enterprises, Agile enterprises, Lean enterprises, Process-driven organizations, e-enterprises, Borderless enterprises, Complicated or complex manufacturing systems, Flat structures and others. These terms have been used by researchers to describe various aspects of enterprises and its operational aspects. Although they have different definitions and scopes, there are several common issues: integration of enterprise functions; integration of enterprise resources; and collaboration. In addition Various vendors produced software applications such as Materials Requirement Planning (MRP), Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP),CAD/CAM systems, Manufacturing Execution System (MES), Advanced Planning & Scheduling System (APS), Supply Chain Execution (SCE), Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Advanced Order Management (AOM), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transport Management System (TMS) and others. This paper proposes a Reference Model and vision for Manufacturing System for 2030 and discussed various aspects of future manufacturing enterprise..It supports the inter-enterprise functions/resources integration and collaboration over the networked environment.

The article deals with some analysis and design stages in the frame of refabrication of a machine tool of lathe type used for profiling/re-profiling of railway wheel set. The concept enables the principle of integration of computer aided design – CAD, Rigid Body Simulation – RBS and Finite Element Modelling – FEM applied to modernization of the conventional radial and longitudinal feed drives by redesigning them in terms of integrating them with CNC equipment, reusing the machine tool structure. The drives were designed as CAD models, transferred in RBS module and also in FEM one for simulation and analysis. Some analysis stages were achieved to uniquely define the performance of a machine tool, intimate knowledge of the cutting process, elucidate the specific characteristics of the driving systems and also of the specific elements of the machines, and knowledge of static and dynamic behaviour of elastic structures, tool holders and cutting tools. The results were used for drawing conclusions regarding the design and making some recommendations related to kinematic and dynamic and also cutting parameters, for running the machine tool under appropriate conditions.

AbstractFor Aristotelian scholars, matter is identified as the subject of change, while form is the boundary of matter. Design is a process of bringing about change. From a design perspective, material is what an entity is made from; form is what makes a thing what it is. Based on the principle, “form is the boundary of matter”, this paper proposes a Design by Material method, thereby addressing the knowledge gap of a systematic method for designing according to material. This method is predicated on the material specification as the first input in the design process. A formal model is built in which the material acts as a trigger and driver for the design process. The method is implemented by integrating computer-aided design (CAD) modelling and its design form. A design application is explained to demonstrate the relevance of the Design by Material method.

Abstract Coronary artery disease (CAD) and ischemic stroke are the two most predominant forms of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) caused by genetic, epigenetic and environmental risk factors. Although studies on the impact of ‘epigenetics’ in CVDs is not new, its effects are increasingly being realized as a key regulatory determinant that may drive predisposition, pathophysiology and therapeutic outcome. The most widely studied epigenetic risk factors are regulated by DNA methylation and miRNA expression. To keep pace with growing developments and discoveries, a comprehensive review was performed using Pubmed, Science Direct and Scopus databases to highlight the role of DNA methylation and miRNAs in CAD and stroke subjects. Network analysis was performed using ClueGO software and miRTargetLink database. We identified 32 studies of DNA methylation on CAD and stroke, of which, 6 studies showed differences in global DNA methylation, 10 studies reported the genome-wide difference in DNA methylation and 16 studies demonstrated altered DNA methylation at 14 candidate loci. The network analysis showed positive regulation of nitric oxide biosynthetic process, homocysteine metabolic process and negative regulation of lipid storage. About, 155 miRNAs were associated with CAD, stroke and related phenotypes in 83 studies. Interestingly, mir-223 hypomethylation and altered expression were associated with cerebral infarction and stroke. The target prediction for 18 common miRNAs between CAD and stroke showed strong interaction with SP3 and SP1 genes. This systematic review addresses the present knowledge on DNA methylation and miRNAs in CAD and stroke, whose abnormal regulation has been implicated in etiology or progression of the diseases.

The design and selection of a suitable drive unit for use in mechatronic systems is a process that can be demanding not only in terms of the time required but also in terms of the demands placed on the knowledge and experience of development workers. The development aimed to create algorithms for the selection of compact electric power units based on data from dynamic analyses of the proposed system, with the help of which it would be possible to shorten and simplify the drive unit selection process significantly. The result of the development is a software tool called DrivePicker. Its functions and benefits are demonstrated in the design of drive units for a robotic arm with an angular structure and 5 degrees of freedom. Comparing selected units from two manufacturers (Spinea DS and HarmonicDrive CanisDrive) shows that by using this software tool, we can significantly speed up and streamline the design of mechatronic devices. DrivePicker also has an interface for connection to simulation and CAD systems, which opens up the possibility of further autonomy.

This contribution deals with the topic of the consistent further development of a wheel hub motor for battery electric vehicles (BEV) based on the principle of an outer rotor switched reluctance machine (SRM). The research work presented in this paper was founded by the ERDF.NRW program, Investment for Growth and Employment and the European Regional Development Fund. The R&D project was named Switched-Reluctance fo(u)r wheel (SR4Wheel). Based on the experience made by first prototype Evolution 0 (EVO 0), developed in the Laboratory for Automation Engineering, Power Electronics and Electrical Drives of the Cologne University of Applied Sciences (CUAS), the test results of EVO 1, as well as the redesign, EVO 2 is presented in this paper. The prototype EVO 0, a first proof of concept leads to several optimizations and lessons learned for the predecessor model EVO 1. The overall target of developing such a gearless outer rotor wheel hub motor is the full integration of the complete machine including its power electronics into the given space between the original friction brake and the rim. Furthermore, due to the additional integration of the power electronics, great opportunities in terms of new vehicle design as well as retrofitting capabilities of already existing vehicle platforms can be achieved. Thereby, further drive train assembly space like the engine compartment is no longer necessary. The SRM does not require magnets for torque production which leads to independence from the changeable commodity prices on the rare earth element markets. This paper presents the developing process, testing, and verification of the innovative drive train concept starting with the final CAD of EVO 1. During the testing and verification process a machine characteristic mapping is performed on a drive train test bench and subsequently the results of a finite element analysis (FEA) are plausibility checked by the test bench results. The process continues with energy conversion test scenarios of the project demonstrator vehicle on a roller test bench focused on noise vibration harshness (NVH) behavior and efficiency. As a conclusion, the gained knowledge by evaluating two EVO 1 prototypes on the rear axle of the test vehicle, and the design for the front axle drive train EVO 2 will be presented. As a major task on the front axle, the limited space due to the large disc brake can be identified and solved.

Sperm chemotaxis is a long-term puzzle and most of our knowledge comes from studying marine animals that are external fertilizers. Sperm are attracted by diffusible chemical factors (chemoattractants) released from the egg which redirect their swimming paths towards their source. This redirection is driven by increases in flagellar curvature that correlate with transient flagellar Ca2+ increases. Recent experimental and modelling results provide insights into the signal flow underlying the translation of an external chemical gradient into an intracellular molecular and motor response. A fundamental element of sea-urchin sperm chemotaxis lies in the ability of these cells to suppress Ca2+-mediated increases in flagellar curvature while experiencing an increasing chemoattractant gradient. The article considers this new evidence and summarizes the known underlying cellular mechanisms and behavioural strategies that sperm use to locate and fertilize the oocyte.

Though rule-based reasoning system is easy to create and convenient to extend, it is not flexible because of the demand for precise matching. Geometric reasoning system can obtain engineering semantic from CAD model and connect geometric topology with design knowledge, but it can not drive product design directly. Utilizing the complementary of rule-based reasoning and geometric reasoning, a product design method based on integrated geometric and rule-based reasoning is presented. The method can standardize the expression of design scheme which is from geometric reasoning, and dock seamlessly design scheme and input condition in rule-based reasoning system. Furthermore, the result of rule-based reasoning can drive product design directly. The operation of human-computer interaction and designer’s experience needed are decreased greatly. Digital target in locater is significant to harmonize aircraft tie-in. there are different types in it, and the amount of it is huge, so its design process is complicated and fussy. On the basis of the method, a rapid design software package for locator digital target design is developed and has been applied in aircraft assembly tooling design. The application has proved the method can improve design efficiency, standardization and intelligence.

Neuroendocrine tumors (NET) constitute a heterogeneous group of malignancies with various clinical presentations and growth rates but a common origin in neuroendocrine cells located all over the body. NET are a relatively low-frequency disease mostly represented by gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) and bronchopulmonary tumors (pNET); on the other hand, an increasing frequency and prevalence have been associated with NET. Despite great efforts in recent years, the management of NET is still a critical unmet need due to the lack of knowledge of the biology of the disease, the lack of adequate biomarkers, late presentation, the relative insensitivity of imaging modalities, and a paucity of predictably effective treatment options. In this context Ca2+ signals, being pivotal molecular devices in sensing and integrating signals from the microenvironment, are emerging to be particularly relevant in cancer, where they mediate interactions between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment to drive different aspects of neoplastic progression (e.g., cell proliferation and survival, cell invasiveness, and proangiogenetic programs). Indeed, ion channels represent good potential pharmacological targets due to their location on the plasma membrane, where they can be easily accessed by drugs. The present review aims to provide a critical and up-to-date overview of NET development integrating Ca2+ signal involvement. In this perspective, we first give an introduction to NET and Ca2+ channels and then describe the different families of Ca2+ channels implicated in NET, i.e., ionotropic receptors, voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels, and transient receptor potential channels, as well as intracellular Ca2+ channels and their signaling molecules.

Cell migration and invasion in glioblastoma (GBM), the most lethal form of primary brain tumors, are critically dependent on Ca2+ signaling. Increases of [Ca2+]i in GBM cells often result from Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), promoted by a variety of agents present in the tumor microenvironment and able to activate the phospholipase C/inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate PLC/IP3 pathway. The Ca2+ signaling is further strengthened by the Ca2+ influx from the extracellular space through Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) currents sustained by Orai/STIM channels, meant to replenish the partially depleted ER. Notably, the elevated cytosolic [Ca2+]i activates the intermediate conductance Ca2+-activated K (KCa3.1) channels highly expressed in the plasma membrane of GBM cells, and the resulting K+ efflux hyperpolarizes the cell membrane. This translates to an enhancement of Ca2+ entry through Orai/STIM channels as a result of the increased electromotive (driving) force on Ca2+ influx, ending with the establishment of a recurrent cycle reinforcing the Ca2+ signal. Ca2+ signaling in migrating GBM cells often emerges in the form of intracellular Ca2+ oscillations, instrumental to promote key processes in the migratory cycle. This has suggested that KCa3.1 channels may promote GBM cell migration by inducing or modulating the shape of Ca2+ oscillations. In accordance, we recently built a theoretical model of Ca2+ oscillations incorporating the KCa3.1 channel-dependent dynamics of the membrane potential, and found that the KCa3.1 channel activity could significantly affect the IP3 driven Ca2+ oscillations. Here we review our new theoretical model of Ca2+ oscillations in GBM, upgraded in the light of better knowledge of the KCa3.1 channel kinetics and Ca2+ sensitivity, the dynamics of the Orai/STIM channel modulation, the migration and invasion mechanisms of GBM cells, and their regulation by Ca2+ signals.

Background: Tobacco epidemic is one of the biggest public health threats, killing nearly seven million people annually. With implementation of smoke free public places legislation, cabs in India are smoke free. However, large majority of the cab drivers are addicted to tobacco. Aim: The aims of the study were to measure cab driver's knowledge, about tobacco, understand pattern of tobacco usage, provide assistance in quitting tobacco, perform oral cancer screening, measure effectiveness of smoking ban in cabs and understand perceptions of cab drivers and commuters to ban. Methods: 400 cab drivers in Mumbai were enrolled after obtaining informed consent. Personal interviews were conducted to understand their knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding tobacco use, smoke free cab policies and their experiences and opinion regarding ban on smoking in cabs. They were offered health education, oral cancer screening and tobacco cessation assistance at regular intervals over a year. Results: 64% cab drivers used tobacco, mainly in smokeless forms (80%). 94% intended to quit, 64% had made previous quit attempts and 70% expressed need of assistance for quitting tobacco. 62% had displayed a No Smoking sign in their cab and 75% expressed full compliance by passengers to the ban. 112 cab drivers had oral precancerous lesions and one cab driver was diagnosed with invasive oral carcinoma. 49% cab drivers quit tobacco and 46% reduced their tobacco consumption by the end of ten months. Conclusion: Smoke free cab policy has increased awareness and reduced passive smoking and this may encourage tobacco users to quit the habit. However, many cab drivers are themselves addicted to tobacco and need professional assistance for quitting. Hence, tobacco cessation - assisting the current users to quit tobacco needs to go hand in hand with smoke free policies. Smoke free cab policies have received enormous support from the cab drivers in Mumbai. There was encouraging compliance to smoke free policies from the commuters. Tobacco quit rate of 49% was achieved by the end of the program.

Calcium (Ca2+) is a universal signaling ion that is essential for the life and death processes of all eukaryotes. In humans, numerous cell stimulation pathways lead to the mobilization of sarco/endoplasmic reticulum (S/ER) stored Ca2+, resulting in the propagation of Ca2+ signals through the activation of processes, such as store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE). SOCE provides a sustained Ca2+ entry into the cytosol; moreover, the uptake of SOCE-mediated Ca2+ by mitochondria can shape cytosolic Ca2+ signals, function as a feedback signal for the SOCE molecular machinery, and drive numerous mitochondrial processes, including adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production and distinct cell death pathways. In recent years, tremendous progress has been made in identifying the proteins mediating these signaling pathways and elucidating molecular structures, invaluable for understanding the underlying mechanisms of function. Nevertheless, there remains a disconnect between using this accumulating protein structural knowledge and the design of new research tools and therapies. In this review, we provide an overview of the Ca2+ signaling pathways that are involved in mediating S/ER stored Ca2+ release, SOCE, and mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake, as well as pinpoint multiple levels of crosstalk between these pathways. Further, we highlight the significant protein structures elucidated in recent years controlling these Ca2+ signaling pathways. Finally, we describe a simple strategy that aimed at applying the protein structural data to initiating drug design.

Cannell and Allen (1984. Biophys. J. 45:913–925) introduced the use of a multi-compartment model to estimate the time course of spread of calcium ions (Ca2+) within a half sarcomere of a frog skeletal muscle fiber activated by an action potential. Under the assumption that the sites of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ release are located radially around each myofibril at the Z line, their model calculated the spread of released Ca2+ both along and into the half sarcomere. During diffusion, Ca2+ was assumed to react with metal-binding sites on parvalbumin (a diffusible Ca2+- and Mg2+-binding protein) as well as with fixed sites on troponin. We have developed a similar model, but with several modifications that reflect current knowledge of the myoplasmic environment and SR Ca2+ release. We use a myoplasmic diffusion constant for free Ca2+ that is twofold smaller and an SR Ca2+ release function in response to an action potential that is threefold briefer than used previously. Additionally, our model includes the effects of Ca2+ and Mg2+ binding by adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP) and the diffusion of Ca2+-bound ATP (CaATP). Under the assumption that the total myoplasmic concentration of ATP is 8 mM and that the amplitude of SR Ca2+ release is sufficient to drive the peak change in free [Ca2+] (Δ[Ca2+]) to 18 μM (the approximate spatially averaged value that is observed experimentally), our model calculates that (a) the spatially averaged peak increase in [CaATP] is 64 μM; (b) the peak saturation of troponin with Ca2+ is high along the entire thin filament; and (c) the half-width of Δ[Ca2+] is consistent with that observed experimentally. Without ATP, the calculated half-width of spatially averaged Δ[Ca2+] is abnormally brief, and troponin saturation away from the release sites is markedly reduced. We conclude that Ca2+ binding by ATP and diffusion of CaATP make important contributions to the determination of the amplitude and the time course of Δ[Ca2+].

Zebrafish abcb4 gene (ortholog to human ABCB1 gene) serves primarily in multidrug resistance (MDR) mechanism by effluxing chemotherapeutic agents, chemicals, xenobiotics, and numerous anti-cancer drugs out of the cells. This study aims to identify the specific transcription factor binding sites (TFBS) within the promoter region of zebrafish abcb4 gene and determine the functional roles of these factors in abcb4 gene expression regulation via mutagenesis analysis. First, primers were designed to target and amplify the promoter region of zebrafish abcb4 gene through gradient PCR. The zebrafish abcb4 gene promoter was then cloned into pGL3.0 vector and sent for sequencing. The sequencing results revealed high similarity to zebrafish DNA sequence from clone DKEY-24I24 in linkage group 16, indicating a successful cloning of targeted gene. Thereafter, consensus sequence of zebrafish abcb4 gene promoter was generated with the length of 1,392 bp which was close to its expected size during primer design (1,500 bp). Using MATCH tool, 155 TFBSs were found within zebrafish abcb4 gene promoter region. Activator protein 1 (AP-1) TFBS at 1,255 bp was chosen to be mutated through site-directed mutagenesis. Mutagenic primers (forward primer: 5’ GGG CAA GGC AGT ATA AAC GTG 3’ and reverse primer: 5’ TTA TGT TTC TAG GGA TTA CGT CAC 3’) were designed to substitute AGT with GGG to remove the AP-1 TFBS. By mutating the zebrafish abcb4 gene promoter, the MDR phenomenon driven by zebrafish abcb4 gene can be elucidated and this might provide clues to the development of tumor and malignancy in human. The results from this study may enrich the knowledge in chemotherapy and cancer treatments.

AbstractThe traditional wind tunnel strain balance design cycle is a manual iterative process. With the experience and intuition of the designer, one solution that meets the design requirements can be selected among a small number of design solutions. This paper introduces a novel software integration-based automatic balance design optimization system (ABDOS) and its implementation by integrating professional design knowledge and experience, stepwise optimization strategy, CAD-CAE software, self-developed scripts and tools. The proposed two-step optimization strategy includes the analytical design process (ADP) and the finite element method design process (FEDP). The built-in optimization algorithm drives the design variables change and searches for the optimal structure combination meeting the design objectives. The client-server based network architecture enables local lightweight design input, task management, and result output. The high-performance server combines all design resources to perform all the solution calculations. The development of more than 10 balances that have been completed and a case study show that this method and platform significantly reduce the time for design evaluation and design-analysis-redesign cycles, assisting designers to comprehensively evaluate and improve the performance of the balance.

D'Angelo, Egidio, Giovanna De Filippi, Paola Rossi, and Vanni Taglietti. Ionic mechanism of electroresponsiveness in cerebellar granule cells implicates the action of a persistent sodium current. J. Neurophysiol. 80: 493–503, 1998. Although substantial knowledge has been accumulated on cerebellar granule cell voltage-dependent currents, their role in regulating electroresponsiveness has remained speculative. In this paper, we have used patch-clamp recording techniques in acute slice preparations to investigate the ionic basis of electroresponsiveness of rat cerebellar granule cells at a mature developmental stage. The granule cell generated a Na+-dependent spike discharge resistant to voltage and time inactivation, showing a linear frequency increase with injected currents. Action potentials arose when subthreshold depolarizing potentials, which were driven by a persistent Na+ current, reached a critical threshold. The stability and linearity of the repetitive discharge was based on a complex mechanism involving a N-type Ca2+ current blocked by ω-CTx GVIA, and a Ca2+-dependent K+ current blocked by charibdotoxin and low tetraethylammonium (TEA; <1 mM); a voltage-dependent Ca2+-independent K+ current blocked by high TEA (>1 mM); and an A current blocked by 2 mM 4-aminopyridine. Weakening TEA-sensitive K+ currents switched the granule cell into a bursting mode sustained by the persistent Na+ current. A dynamic model is proposed in which the Na+ current-dependent action potential causes secondary Ca2+ current activation and feedback voltage- and Ca2+-dependent afterhyperpolarization. The afterhyperpolarization reprimes the channels inactivated in the spike, preventing adaptation and bursting and controlling the duration of the interspike interval and firing frequency. This result reveals complex dynamics behind repetitive spike discharge and suggests that a persistent Na+ current plays an important role in action potential initiation and in the regulation of mossy fiber-granule cells transmission.

OBJECTIVES/SPECIFIC AIMS: To access obesity risk perceptions, knowledge and behaviors of Hispanic taxi cab drivers and develop a better understanding of the factors that influence health outcomes in this population. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Focus groups were conducted at NYC H+H/Lincoln, where subjects were screened and recruited from taxi bases with the help of the local Federation of Taxi Drivers. This was done by utilizing flyers, messages through taxi-base radios, and referrals from livery cab drivers. Approval from the local Institutional Review Board was obtained. The research investigators, developed a structured focus group procedural protocol of open-ended interview questions related to cardiovascular disease. Participants for the focus groups were older than 18 years old and working as livery cab drivers in NYC for at least 6 months. Three focus groups were held with informed consent obtained from each participant in their primary language before the start of each session. After completion of the focus group, participants received a gift voucher for attending the approximately 1-hour session. Focus groups were moderated by trained research staff members at Lincoln. Three main categories of questions were organized based on perception, knowledge, and behavior. Participants were questioned on topics about obesity, CVD and diabetes knowledge; knowledge about etiology, risk perception, possible prevention and interventions. Responses were recorded using audiotapes and transcribed verbatim. If participants did not elaborate on the initial question, a probing question was asked to clarify. The transcript was translated from Spanish by trained bilingual staff and analyzed using standard qualitative techniques with open code method. Four research investigators read the transcript separately and formulated concepts, which were then categorized and formulated into dominant themes. These themes were then compared and analyzed with a group consensus to ensure representative data. Once recurring themes emerged and the saturation point was reached, the study concluded, after enrolling 25 participants. The Health Believe Model (HBM) was employed to understand and explain the perceptions and behaviors of taxi drivers. HBM is one of the most widely recognized models and is used to understand, predict and modify health behavior. HBM helps to identify perception of risks of unhealthy behavior, barriers for having healthy behavior, actions taken by patients to stay healthy, self-efficacy and commitment to goals [12]. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: Of the 25 Hispanic livery cab drivers, 92% were male. The majority of taxi drivers that participated in the study were immigrants (96%), with a mean age of 53 years (ranged 21–69), and 92%, were spoke Spanish. In total, 52% participants identified themselves as Hispanic, 20% White, 4% Black, and 20% did not identify their race. Mean body mass index (BMI) was 31 (22.8–38.7) kg/m2. In all, 56% were obese and another 40% were overweight. From this sample, 50% had been diagnosed with hypertension and 27% were living with diabetes. In all, 64% had a high school education or higher. Answers provided by the taxi drivers to focus group questions were recorded, reviewed and divided into 8 dominant themes based on concepts that emerged from the focus groups discussions. (a) Focus group study findings: Themes recorded during the focus group discussions, include poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, comorbidities/risk factors, stress, health not being a priority, discipline, education, and intervention. Participants shared their opinions in regards to these themes with minimal differences, making an emphasis on the fact that the nature of their profession was the root cause. Of the themes, the top 3 dominant themes include poor diet, sedentary/lifestyle and comorbidities/risk factors. (1) Diet: The theme “Poor diet” evolved from 151 related concepts that were described by participants. All 25 participants perceived their diet as bad due to eating high-fat meals associated with the cultural food and restaurant chains with lower food prices and ease of car parking. Drivers also reported that they did not have enough time to eat healthy foods based on their long working hours. They say: “comemos muy tarde por que preferimos montar un pasajero” … stating that they preferred to pick up passengers and delay their meals. However, they consider poor diet as the most decisive factor in their increased risk for obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. (2) Life Style: The theme “Sedentary lifestyle” was derived from 147 similar concepts described by participants. They believe that physical inactivity is another leading risk factor for obesity, diabetes, and CVD. The demands of the profession force them to drive more than 10 hours per day. They understand the importance of daily exercise but they admit that at the end of the workday they are too tired to exercise or “stop working” to participate in exercise as this means less money. They also understand that family history of obesity in addition to poor diet increases their risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular risks. (3) Comorbidity: The theme “Comorbidities” developed from 143 concepts grouped together. Taxi-drivers perceived that obesity complications directly affects many vital organs, such as the kidneys, the heart, and vasculature. Participants perceive obesity as important risk factor for high blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Taxi drivers see an association between their health condition and their work as a taxi driver. However, taxi-drivers reported that they are more concerned about the economic well-being of their families than themselves. Taxi-drivers begin to intervene in their own health only when more serious health conditions related to obesity, diabetes, and hypertension developed. (4) Work Stress: The theme “Stress/other risk factors” was derived from 141 concepts. Taxi-drivers perceive their profession with lack of organization and high-stress levels as one of the leading risk factors contributing to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. They also attribute a combination of stressful lifestyle, poor diet, lack of exercise, consumption of alcohol and cigarettes as determining factors in developing negative health outcomes. “One participant says; Tenemos el paquete completo” … we have the entire package. (5) Health as a priority: The theme “Health is not a priority” was derived from 120 concepts based on the cab drivers’ responses. Taxi drivers prioritize their work while their health takes a back seat. They work long shifts as they feel the pressures of financial responsibilities of their family. They admitted lack of intentions to change their behavior and they consider themselves as “hard headed.” Drivers changed their behavior only when serious health conditions develop that require professional medical attention. Taxi drivers explain that the lack of time as being a big factor in pursuing preventative care. (6) Personal Discipline: The theme “Discipline” evolved from 80 concepts derived from the driver’s transcripts. Taxi drivers are aware of their lack of organizational skills in general, especially when it comes to the balance between work and a healthy lifestyle. Taxi drivers recognize that not being disciplined results in the development of their obesity and chronic health conditions. Drivers admit that they do not have a fixed schedule, with no direct supervision, and cannot find the time to go to the doctor or change their behavior. (7) Health Education: The theme “Education” was derived from79 concepts noted from the focus group discussion. Taxi drivers know that their lack of health education is affecting them. With little understanding about the severity of the disease process it is difficult to take proactive measures. They are interested in the development of programs that will educate them about obesity, diabetes and CVD prevention. They want to attend programs that can educate them about prevention of obesity, diabetes, and CVD prevention with strong focus on healthy eating. They understand that this would increase their ability to change their unhealthy behavior. (8) Health interventions: The last major theme “Intervention” was derived out of 71 concepts. When asked about possible interventions that might help them towards healthy behaviors, taxi drivers think that the use of technology as a means of education is very effective. They understand the most direct route to reach them is by cellphone, email, and social media such as Facebook. They also feel that it would be good to use this type of communication to not only to inform them about health issues, but to also educate them directly. (b) Application of Health Behavior Model: We employed the HBM, one of the most utilized and easy to understand health models (18, 20–22) to explain the knowledge, perception, and health behaviors of our study participants. The HBM consist of 6 posits: (1) risk susceptibility, (2) risk severity, (3) benefits of action, and (4) barriers to action, (5) self-efficacy, and (6) cues to action [23]. According to the HBM, people’s beliefs about their risk and their perception of the benefits of taking action to avoid it, influence their readiness to take action [15, 21–22, 24]. Using the HBM, health behavior can be modified positively if the 6 posits are perceived by the person [23]. According to the results of our study, taxi drivers that participated in our study, do not perceive the severity of their risk. Participants admitted that they go to the doctor and start paying attention to their health condition only when they get seriously sick. Another posit of the HBM, understanding benefit of actions, is also not perceived by taxi drivers. Participants understand that they should be involved in physical activity, but do not pursue physical activity. They stated that they are too busy and tired to exercise daily without realizing the benefits of having a healthy life style. Findings from the focus groups also demonstrate that taxi drivers do not possess self-efficacy, as they are not confident that they are able to change their own health behavior. They openly admitted to having poor discipline, lack of organizational skills, and lack of time management skills. But, they expressed their wish to get information about time management, healthy snacks, places where they can get affordable and healthy food, learn more about different physical activities, and places where they can exercise. The sixth posit of the HBM model is the cues for action which should trigger the action to change behavior. Cues such as physical pain or illness in them or family members of cab drivers, trigger a visit to the physician’s office. Cab drivers were open to receiving educational material provided by physicians or health information provided on TV/cellphone about disease prevention. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT: Obesity is steadily on the increase in the US population and has become a major public health concern [1–3]. Latinos are at the higher risk of heart diseases such as obesity, hypertension compared to other ethnical groups [3, 13]. There is a higher prevalence of obesity among particular occupational groups with cab drivers having one of the highest obesity prevalence among all professions [5, 7–9, 13]. Obesity risks therefore seem to affect NYC cab drivers who are of Latino background more than others. Surveys conducted in different countries in Asia, Europe, and Africa reported that taxi, truck, and bus show that drivers are at a higher risk of developing obesity, diabetes, and hypertension [5, 8–11]. This study is the first to evaluate the knowledge, perception, and behaviors of NYC Latino taxi cab drivers with respect to obesity. The study uncovers factors and barriers that contribute to their behavior, and identify possible ways that can modify their behavior and decrease their chances of developing obesity. The study results demonstrated that Latino immigrant taxi drivers perceive themselves at a high risk for obesity development. As the result of discussions with focus groups, the eight dominant themes were identified. Participants perceive their risk susceptibility and understand that working as a driver is a sedentary occupation with lack of physical activity significantly contributing to obesity development. Additionally, taxi drivers report that their unhealthy diet is a major factor that contributes to their weight gain. Taxi drivers perceive their poor diet as the result of the food they consume being high in fat content. Due to financial constraints and their cultural diet requirements, they feel limited to unhealthy food options. They acknowledge the risk that poor diet contributes to obesity, high cholesterol, obesity development. Participants also expressed that work stress is another important factor. Busy traffic, lack of organization, financial stress to support their families-push them to work prolonged hours. Participants also admitted that in their leisure time, they use alcohol, smoke cigarettes, and watch TV, instead of going to the gym, because they feel too tired to exercise. Taxi drivers perceive their barriers as a lack of education and knowledge about healthy food choices, places where they can buy healthy affordable snacks, information about physical activities, stress management skills, and organizational skills. Other perceived barriers that prevent them from leading healthy lifestyle include lack of discipline, lack of time for physical activity, economic uncertainty, financial responsibility and the perception that the wellbeing of their families is more important than themselves and their health. HBM is a widely used model that helps to identify perception of risks of unhealthy behavior, barriers to healthy behavior, actions taken by patients to stay healthy, self-efficacy, and commitment to goals. Based on the Glasgow theory, the core of health behavior models is the identification of the barriers and self-efficacy [25]. Our study is unique as it involves using the HBM to explain the basis of taxi cab drivers’ behavior. Results of our research study showed that our participants perceived barriers very well. However, lack of self-efficacy, lack of perceiving benefits of action, lack of cues to action, and lack of understanding the risk of disease severity explain why taxi drivers have greater risk for obesity among occupations, and are not ready to embrace health behavior modification. This qualitative study shows us where the window of opportunity for intervention lies, how we can intervene and modify the health behavior of the at-risk NYC Latino cab driver population. By Glasgow theory, self-efficacy is an important factor in behavior modification models [25]. If the barriers that are perceived by participants as too high, and self-efficacy is low, one can intervene by improving self-efficacy. Bandura has offered ways to increase patients’ self-efficacy by using three strategies: (a) setting small, incremental, and achievable goals; (b) using formalized behavioral contracting to establish goals and specify rewards; and (c) monitoring and reinforcement, including patient self-monitoring by keeping records [20]. We can also improve perception of the benefits of action by providing cues to action namely education during the office visits, by providing reading materials, and the use of modern technology (emails, interactive Web sites, apps, etc.). A study was conducted in South Asia, encouraging taxi drivers to exercise through the use of pedometers [7]. This study provides an example of ways to motivate taxi drivers, improve their self-efficacy, overcome barriers, and provide cues to action. As one of the theories that can explain and help in behavioral modification, the Health Belief model includes the impact of the environment and elements of social learning. Using this model, we were able to differentiate and identify the factors that influence their behavior that need to be addressed by health care workers and public health representatives to improve obesity related risks among inner city taxi cab drivers in NYC.

In Drosophila, olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs) rely primarily on two types of chemoreceptors, odorant receptors (Ors) and ionotropic receptors (Irs), to convert odor stimuli into neural activity. The cellular signaling of these receptors in their native OSNs remains unclear because of the difficulty of obtaining intracellular recordings from Drosophila OSNs. Here, we developed an antennal preparation that enabled the first recordings (to our knowledge) from targeted Drosophila OSNs through a patch-clamp technique. We found that brief odor pulses triggered graded inward receptor currents with distinct response kinetics and current–voltage relationships between Or- and Ir-driven responses. When stimulated with long-step odors, the receptor current of Ir-expressing OSNs did not adapt. In contrast, Or-expressing OSNs showed a strong Ca2+-dependent adaptation. The adaptation-induced changes in odor sensitivity obeyed the Weber–Fechner relation; however, surprisingly, the incremental sensitivity was reduced at low odor backgrounds but increased at high odor backgrounds. Our model for odor adaptation revealed two opposing effects of adaptation, desensitization and prevention of saturation, in dynamically adjusting odor sensitivity and extending the sensory operating range.

The current hype associated with machine learning and artificial intelligence often confuses scientists and students and may lead to uncritical or inappropriate applications of computational approaches. Even the field of computer-aided drug design (CADD) is not an exception. The situation is ambivalent. On one hand, more scientists are becoming aware of the benefits of learning from available data and are beginning to derive predictive models before designing experiments. However, on the other hand, easy accessibility of in silico tools comes at the risk of using them as “black boxes” without sufficient expert knowledge, leading to widespread misconceptions and problems. For example, results of computations may be taken at face value as “nothing but the truth” and data visualization may be used only to generate “pretty and colorful pictures”. Computational experts might come to the rescue and help to re-direct such efforts, for example, by guiding interested novices to conduct meaningful data analysis, make scientifically sound predictions, and communicate the findings in a rigorous manner. However, this is not always ensured. This contribution aims to encourage investigators entering the CADD arena to obtain adequate computational training, communicate or collaborate with experts, and become aware of the fundamentals of computational methods and their given limitations, beyond the hype. By its very nature, this Opinion is partly subjective and we do not attempt to provide a comprehensive guide to the best practices of CADD; instead, we wish to stimulate an open discussion within the scientific community and advocate rational rather than fashion-driven use of computational methods. We take advantage of the open peer-review culture of F1000Research such that reviewers and interested readers may engage in this discussion and obtain credits for their candid personal views and comments. We hope that this open discussion forum will contribute to shaping the future practice of CADD.

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to compare the effectiveness of the cognitive-affect behavior (CAB) model and the theory of reasoned action (TRA) model as well as their extended forms (with product knowledge) in predicting everyday green consumption among non-Hispanic White and Hispanic consumers. Design/methodology/approach Survey data from a convenience sample of 249 non-Hispanic Whites and 425 Hispanic adults were used to test the two models through structural equation modeling analyses. Findings While all tested models explained green consumption in both samples adequately, the basic TRA and the TPB (extended TRA) models were superior to the basic and extended CAB models. Including product knowledge further enhanced the predictive power of the two basic models. Research limitations/implications Self-reported surveys are subject to social desirability bias in the reporting of intentions and actual purchases of green products. Future research may attempt to collect data on actual green purchases. The selection of a general consumption context is limited in distinguishing between high- and low-involvement products. Future research should test the relative effectiveness of these models among specific green products with different levels of involvement. Practical implications Marketing and strategic communication programs should focus on increasing consumers’ positive attitudes about purchasing green products and promote green purchase intentions using intention-generating promotional tactics. This paper also stresses the need to increase consumers’ concrete knowledge about green products to drive actual purchase behavior. Social implications This paper can help communicators to further promote green consumption for routinely purchased consumer goods, which will ultimately enhance a healthier and more sustainable environment. Originality/value This paper extends the literature about green consumption, providing insights about the relative effectiveness of two widely accepted consumer behavior models. It implies that some models excel over others in terms of their explanatory power across consumer populations regardless of socio-demographic differences. It also stresses the importance of specifying explicitly behavioral control variables in green consumption research and provides a viable basis for the development of strategic marketing.

Introduction. The cargo frame is a load-bearing element of the car, since the body and chassis are installed on it. Therefore, high strength requirements are imposed on this node. For safe and reliable operation of the truck, the frame must be adjusted and balanced, since even minor changes in the geometry can negatively affect the overall condition and safe operation of the equipment. This article discusses methods for lengthening the load-bearing elements of trucks on the example of a light-duty car "GAZelle". Problem Statement. Car frame extension is a high-tech process that requires high precision, knowledge, and the use of a wide range of equipment. The extended frame adds a number of advantages to the car, which in turn makes it possible to transport cargo with larger dimensions. The main goal of this work is to enable the car to transport bulky cargo. Also, in the process of extending the frame, it is checked for cracks, breaks and corrosion foci and, if necessary, repairs are made, which increases the reliability, safety and service life of the entire structure as a whole. Theoretical Part. When extending the standard support, all attachments are removed from the car: fuel tanks, body, transmission, drive shaft. All that remains is the cab, the bridge, and the engine. Then the frame is cut in three places. Two cuts are made at a distance of 80 cm in the direction from the cab to the rear bridge, and the last one is made at a distance of 40 cm from the rear bridge in the direction of the rear overhang. Then a longer channel is installed on the frame. It is secured with rivets, bolts, or lap welding. After that, the structure is assembled back. This takes into account the redistribution of loads and the need for high-quality performance of all types of work. Conclusion. The frame is an integral part of not only trucks, but also an important component of passenger cars, as well as light-duty vehicles. Its technical condition is just as important as the condition of, for example, the braking system, as it also ensures the safety of both the driver and pedestrians. The lengthening of the frame in the conditions of repair and mechanical enterprises allows you to increase the load capacity of serial cars of the GAZelle series while ensuring their reliability and safety.

The purine nucleotide GTP, when added extracellularly, induces oscillations in the swimming behaviour of the protist Paramecium tetraurelia. For periods as long as 10 min the cell swims backwards and forwards repetitively. The oscillations in swimming behaviour are driven by changes in membrane potential of the cell, which in turn are caused by periodic activation of inward Mg2+- and Na+-specific currents. We screened for and isolated mutants that are defective in this response, exploiting the fact that the net result of GTP on a population of cells is repulsion. One mutant, GTP-insensitive (gin A), is not repelled by GTP. In addition, GTP fails to induce repetitive backwards swimming in gin A mutants, although they swim backwards normally in response to other stimuli. GTP fails to evoke oscillations in membrane potential or Mg2+ and Na+ currents in the mutant, although the Mg2+ and Na+ conductances are not themselves measurably affected. A small, oscillating Ca2+ current induced by GTP in the wild type, which might be part of the mechanism that generates oscillations, is also missing from gin A cells. To our knowledge, gin A is the first example of a mutant defective in a purinergic response. We discuss the possibility that the gin A lesion affects the oscillator itself.

Oscillatory patterns in H+, K+, Ca2+ and Cl- uptake were observed at different regions of the root surface, including root hairs, using a non-invasive ion flux measuring technique (the MIFE™ technique). To our knowledge, this is the first report of ultradian oscillations in nutrient acquisition in the mature root zone. Oscillations of the largest magnitude were usually measured in the elongation region, 2–4 mm from the root apex. There were usually at least two oscillatory components present for each ion measured: fast, with periods of several minutes; and slow, with periods of 50–80 min. Even within the same functional zone, the periods of ion flux oscillations were significantly different, suggesting that they are driven by some internal mechanisms located in each cell rather than originating from one ‘central clock pacemaker’. There were also significant changes in the oscillatory characteristics (both periods and amplitudes) of fluxes from a single small cluster of cells over time. Analysis of phase shifts between oscillations in different ions suggested that rhythmic activity of a plasma membrane H+-pump may be central to observed rhythmic nutrient acquisition by plant roots. We discuss the possible adaptive significance of such an oscillatory strategy for root nutrient acquisition.

In many countries, interest in greater openness and integration of universities to social and economic environment is growing. Driven by society and the knowledge economy and the social demands, the University Extension has gained increasing importance, both in Latin America where the main focus is on direct social actions, interventions promoting citizenship and fomenting local leadership, whether in developed economies where services and technology transfer receive greater attention. In continental Europe the term correlate to the most widely adopted extension is "Third Mission", and is subdivided into three sub-areas: Continuing Education, Technology Transfer and Innovation, and Social Engagement. This Academy playing field also gains strength in the "old continent". Em vários países, o interesse por maior abertura e integração das universidades ao meio social e econômico é crescente. Impulsionada pela sociedade e economia do conhecimento e pelas demandas sociais, a Extensão Universitária ganha cada vez mais importância, seja na América Latina onde o foco principal são ações sociais diretas, intervenções promotoras da cidadania e fomentadoras do protagonismo local, seja em economias mais desenvolvidas onde os serviços e a transferência de tecnologia recebem maior atenção. Na Europa continental o termo correlato à extensão mais adotado é “Terceira Missão” (Third Mission)1, e subdivide-se em três sub-áreas: Educação Continuada, Transferência de Tecnologia e Inovação, e Engajamento Social. Este campo de atuação da academia também ganha força no “velho continente”.

Purpose With the developments of e-commerce markets, novel recommendation technologies are becoming an essential part of many online retailers’ economic models to help drive online sales. Initially, the purpose of this paper is to undertake an investigation of apparel recommendations in the commercial market in order to verify the research value and significance. Then, this paper reviews apparel recommendation techniques and systems through academic research, aiming to acquaint apparel recommendation context, summarize the pros and cons of various research methods, identify research gaps and eventually propose new research solutions to benefit apparel retailing market. Design/methodology/approach This study utilizes empirical research drawing on 130 academic publications indexed from online databases. The authors introduce a three-layer descriptor for searching articles, and analyse retrieval results via distribution graphics of years, publications and keywords. Findings This study classified high-tech integrated apparel systems into 3D CAD systems, personalised design systems and recommendation systems. The authors’ research interest is focussed on recommendation system. Four types of models were found, namely clothes searching/retrieval, wardrobe recommendation, fashion coordination and intelligent recommendation systems. The forth type, smart systems, has raised more awareness in apparel research as it is equipped with advanced functions and application scenarios to satisfy customers. Despite various computational algorithms tested in system modelling, existing research is lacking in terms of apparel and users profiles research. Thus, from the review, the authors have identified and proposed a more complete set of key features for describing both apparel and users profiles in a recommendation system. Originality/value Based on previous studies, this is the first review paper on this topic in this subject field. The summarised work and the proposed new research will inspire future researchers with various knowledge backgrounds, especially, from a design perspective.

AbstractThe light-driven pupil mechanism, consisting of an assembly of mobile pigment granules inside the photoreceptor cells, has been investigated by in vivo reflection microspectrophotometry in wild type (WT) Drosophila and in the photoreceptor mutants inaC and trp. The pupillary response of a dark-adapted WT eye to a step in light is a monophasic reflectance increase reaching a plateau after ca. 15-s light adaptation. This reflectance change is due to photoreceptor pigment granules that accumulate near the tips of the rhabdomeres under light adaptation and that are withdrawn towards the periphery in the dark (Franceschini & Kirschfeld, 1976). The step response of the pupil mechanism of inaC is triphasic. Strikingly, the reflectance level at light onset is distinctly higher than that in WT, due to a partly aggregated state of the photoreceptor pigment granules near the rhabdomere tips that persists in the dark-adapted state, in line with direct calcium measurements of Peretz et al. (1994b). The step response of the pupil mechanism of inaC is slightly elevated compared to that of WT. The step response in trp is a transient, biphasic reflectance change, approximating a log normal function. This function is also a good approximation of the pulse response in WT and inaC. The intensity range of pupillary sensitivity is about 4 log unit. The range of inaC compared to that of WT is slightly (≈0.5 log unit) shifted towards lower intensities, but that in trp is strongly shifted to higher intensities (≈2.5 log unit). The results can be interpreted with the present knowledge of the primary steps in fly phototransduction and the hypothesis that the local intracellular calcium concentration determines the position of the pigment granules, and hence are in line with the notion that the pupil can be used as a qualitative Ca2+ probe.

The underlying values and priorities that drive policy responses depend largely on the constructs that researchers and decision makers select to measure and the metrics used. Despite much recent attention being given to sustainable diets and food systems and to the importance of clearly measuring sustainability to meet targets, to achieve goals, and to appraise dietary and environmental policies, it is not commonly agreed how the different indicators of sustainable diets are assessed. The evidence base for assessment of these indicators are frequently weak, fragmented, and arbitrary. The aim of this paper was to compare a range of published methods and indicators for assessing sustainable diets and food systems in order to harmonise them. Keyword and reference searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, CAB Abstracts, and Web of Knowledge. Fifty-two studies (21 proposed methods and 31 used methods) that combined environment, nutrition and health, and socioeconomic aspects of sustainable diets were reviewed. The majority (over 90%) of the studies focused on high-income countries. Twenty-eight studies assessed the environmental effects of different dietary practices, eight of the studies examined the nutrition and health indicators used for assessing sustainable food systems, and seven studies assessed the social and economic costs of diets. A classification of the elements was developed, and common elements are proposed for standardizing. These elements were categorized into nutrition and health indicators, environment indicators, and socioeconomic indicators. Standardized or harmonized indicators can be used for consistency and applicability purposes and to support, implement, and monitor relevant policies.

The aim of this paper is to research the impact to emerging theory based on the relation between the architect and his work in a digital approach to the process of design and realization by the principle of Digital Chain. Digital Chain is an uninterruptible digital process consisting of design (idea, coding, geometrics), through construction (structure, junction, prototyping) to production (fabrication) with every step as a programmed entity connected by CAAD/CAM technology universal interfaces. The term Digital Chain is defined and researched (theoretically, experimentally and practically) by the CAAD Chair at ETHZ within the research projects of this institute. Digital Chain is not continuous without the role and position of the architect as the fluid energy and expert that investigates how digital technology is changing, i.e. the entire process of the chain, simultaneously adapting to it.In that sense architecture appears as an open work (Umberto Eco) without final definitions and in a constant process of information motion as the main component of the architectural product caused by the demands of context, function, form and user input. Testing design code through changes of parameters in iterations, as well as checks in prototype on the next level, makes the theoretical playground between experiment and experience, through education and expertise. It is examplary that interest in the process (performance) was larger than the representation (appearance), what Deleuze and Guattari call supremacy of the Gothic spirit over the spirit of Romanesque or classical spirit, where Gothic deals with the generation of Gothic architecture by understanding the forces, trends and behavior of the material from the bottom to the top, contrary to the classic generation that deals with the imposition of visual aspects such as the proportion of top-down. This paper considers experience or posteriori knowledge as the main driver of the emerging theory of the Digital Chain. Article received: December 26, 2016; Article accepted: January 23, 2017; Published online: April 20, 2017Original scholarly paperHow to cite this article: Cvetić, Mariela, and Slađana Marković. "Experience and Theory in Architectural Design: Digital Chain Case." AM Journal of Art and Media Studies 12 (2017): 121-134.

English abstract: This article analyzes the causes of low trade relations between Indonesia and Latin American states, arguing that dynamics of international political economy have opened opportunities to increase trade relations between those countries. Having good diplomatic and political relations with similar emerging economies, like Peru and Chile, should drive closer economic relations among them. A qualitative study was conducted using literature reviews, archival analysis, and in-depth interviews. Political will and lack of knowledge pertaining to the business character of each country hamper external relations. Thus, a functional multi-track diplomacy that incorporates state and non-state actors from various fields is crucial for enhancing economic relations among these countries. Trade relations can be particularly strengthened by maximizing cooperation among actors at various levels.Spanish abstract: Este artículo analiza las débiles relaciones comerciales entre Indonesia y América Latina, argumentando que la dinámica de la economía política abre oportunidades para mejorar estas relaciones. Las buenas relaciones diplomáticas y políticas entre Perú y Chile, debería estrechar sus relaciones económicas. Pero la escasa voluntad política y falta de conocimiento del carácter empresarial de cada país, obstaculizan sus relaciones externas. La investigación incluyó revisión de literatura, análisis de archivos y entrevistas en profundidad. Los resultados subrayan la necesidad de una diplomacia funcional de múltiples rutas que incorpore instituciones estatales y no estatales de diversos campos para mejorar las relaciones económicas. Las relaciones comerciales particularmente pueden fortalecerse entre países maximizando su recíproca cooperación en cada nivel (diplomacia multinivel).French abstract: Cet article analyse les causes de la faiblesse des relations commerciales entre l’Indonésie et les pays d’Amérique latine en faisant valoir que la dynamique de l’économie politique internationale a ouvert des opportunités pour stimuler les relations commerciales entre ces pays. Cette étude qualitative a été menée sur la base d’une étude de la littérature existante, d’analyses archivistiques et d’entretiens approfondis. Le manque de volonté politique et surtout de connaissances réciproques des atouts commerciaux de ces pays entravent leurs relations extérieures. Ainsi, une diplomatie fonctionnelle à plusieurs voies qui intègre des diplomaties étatiques et non-étatiques dans divers domaines est-elle cruciale pour améliorer leurs relations économiques. Les relations commerciales peuvent notamment être renforcées en maximisant la coopération entre ces pays à chaque niveau (diplomatie multi-niveaux).

Abstract Abstract 1056 B cell antigen receptors (BCR) transmit information via posttranslational protein modifications, most importantly protein phosphorylation. BCR signaling is a complex process that regulates differentiation and activation responses of the B-lineage. Dysregulation of BCR signaling can induce malignant transformation that can result in the onset of leukemia or lymphoma. To date our understanding of normal- versus malignant B cell biology points to differences in properties of BCR signaling that may be amenable to selective therapeutic targeting. However, comprehensive knowledge about BCR signaling pathways is still lacking which makes it difficult to understand the molecular events that drive B cell function and malignant transformation. To globally characterize BCR signaling, we have applied quantitative phosphoproteomic techniques that allowed us to identify and quantify about 10000 phosphorylation sites as a function of BCR stimulus, time, and subcellular location. Our phosphoproteome approach uncovered many novel BCR signaling effectors and their site-specific phosphorylation dynamics. The majority of phosphorylation events occured on serine/threonine residues, while only about one percent was detected at tyrosine residues. Interestingly, most of the identified proteins contain multiple phosphorylation sites showing different kinetics upon BCR stimulation, suggesting that they serve as signal integrators. Moreover, our functional analysis revealed that certain phosphorylation sites in adapter proteins are not only relevant for regulating the onset but also the termination of BCR signaling. Such signal termination is at least partly achieved by coupling the phosphotyrosine-dependent formation of BCR signalosomes to the kinetically flexible cytosolic Ca2+ concentration. In summary, our analysis revealed the complex composition of BCR signaling pathways and their regulation, and hence provides a basis for the identification of potential BCR-associated drug targets in the future. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

RESUMONum momento da educação digital, que tende a se consolidar por meio do desenvolvimento de diferentes tecnologias e inovações, as instituições de Ensino Superior enfrentam desafios alusivos às propostas didático-pedagógicas tecnológicas, às estratégias que envolvem o processo de ensino-aprendizagem e aos investimentos referentes às diferentes modalidades presencial e a distância. Apresenta-se nesta reflexão elementos relevantes relacionados à educação híbrida e a distância, dados da América e do Brasil. As transformações no Ensino Superior estão relacionadas também às condições da realidade externa, interna em relação aos investimentos e às perspectivas educacionais, que são impulsionadas pelas demandas sociais, do mundo do trabalho, da globalização e do novo papel do conhecimento. O hibridismo tem se consolidado em experiências diferenciadas e entende-se que este não pode ser considerado como um modelo estático, mas que tende a transformar o contexto no qual está inserido cada vez mais, com os resultados de reflexões acadêmicas a respeito de propostas implantadas, como a sala de aula invertida, uso de diversos aplicativos, entre outros, no Ensino Superior em diferentes países.Palavras-chave: Educação a Distância. Educação Híbrida. Ensino Superior.ABSTRACTAt a time of digital education, which tends to consolidate itself through the development of different technologies and innovations, Higher Education Institutions face challenges related to technological didactic-pedagogical proposals, the strategies that involve the teaching-learning process and the related investments the different modalities, in person and at a distance. In this reflection, relevant elements related to hybrid and distance education are presented, data from America and Brazil. The transformations in Higher Education are also related to the conditions of the external, internal reality in relation to investments and educational perspectives, which are driven by social demands, work, globalization and the new role of knowledge. Hybridism has been consolidated in different experiences and it is understood that this cannot be considered as a static model, but that it tends to transform the context in which it is increasingly inserted, with the results of academic reflections on proposals implemented as the Flipped Classroom, use of various applications, among others, in Higher Education in different countries.Keywords: Distance Education. Hybrid Education. University education.

Resumo As narrativas estéticas estão presentes nas práticas de saúde e são acompanhadas pela ênfase na alimentação saudável e na qualidade de vida. Mas se somos levados a consumir formas de vida saudável, por que tantas pessoas se sentem cada vez mais doentes? Este ensaio discute a produção desse discurso no campo da saúde e os impactos das noções de saúde e de alimentação na subjetividade atual. A saúde torna-se sinônimo de prevenção, longevidade e boa forma. Ela tem sido usada como categoria de normatividade social. Existem relações de poder inerentes a essa concepção de saúde, que geram uma hipocondria na relação entre representações de saúde e de doença. Consequentemente, temos uma medicalização dos corpos e possível reedição de um higienismo, autorizado pelo saber das especialidades médicas. Tudo em nome da boa saúde.Palavras-chave: Saúde. Corpo. Subjetividade. Alimentação Saudável. Body, subjectivity and health discourse: an essay for field professionals Abstract Aesthetic narratives are present in health practices and are accompanied by an emphasis on healthy eating and quality of life. But if we are driven to consume healthy ways of living, why do so many people feel increasingly sick? This essay discusses the production of this discourse in the field of health and the impacts of notions of health and food on current subjectivity. Health becomes synonymous with prevention, longevity and fitness. It has been used as a category of social normativity. There are power relations inherent to this concept of health, which generate hypochondria in the relationship between representations of health and illness. Consequently, we have a medicalization of bodies and a possible reissue of hygienism, authorized by the knowledge of medical specialties. All in the name of good health.Keywords: Health. Body. Subjectivity. Healthy Eating. Cuerpo, subjetividad y el discurso de la salud: ensayos para profesionales de campo Resumen Las narrativas estéticas están presentes en las prácticas de salud y vienen acompañadas por el énfasis en la alimentación saludable y en la calidad de vida. Pero si somos inducidos a consumir formas de vida saludable, ¿por qué tanta gente se siente cada vez más enferma? Este ensayo discute la producción de ese discurso en el campo de la salud y los impactos de las nociones de salud y de alimentación en la subjetividad actual. La salud se torna sinónimo de prevención, longevidad y buena forma. Esta ha sido usada como categoría de normatividad social. Existen relaciones de poder inherentes a esa concepción de salud, que generan una hipocondría en la relación entre representaciones de salud y de enfermedad. Consecuentemente, tenemos una medicalización de los cuerpos y posible reedición de un higienismo, autorizado por el saber de las especialidades médicas. Todo en nombre de la buena salud.Palabras clave: Salud. Cuerpo. Subjetividad. Alimentación Saludable.

Abstract Childhood myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) account for less than 5% of pediatric hematologic malignancies and differ from their adult counterpart in terms of biology, genetics, and cure rates. Complete (-7) or partial loss (del7q) of chromosome 7 constitutes the most common cytogenetic abnormality and is associated with more advanced disease typically requiring timely hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Previously, we and others established a link between -7 and germline GATA2 mutations in pediatric MDS (37% of MDS/-7 cases are GATA2-deficient) as well as constitutional SAMD9/9L disorders where -7 is utilized as an escape mechanism from the growth-restrictive effect of SAMD9/9L mutations. To date, comprehensive sequencing studies have been performed in 96 children with primary MDS, as reported by Pastor et al, Leukemia 2017 and Schwartz et al, Nature Comm 2017. This work established mutations in SETBP1, ASXL1, PTPN11, RUNX1 and RAS pathway genes as common somatic drivers. However, little is known about the clonal development of -7 and the role of additional somatic mutations. The knowledge about clonal hierarchies is essential for the understanding of disease progression on molecular level and for mapping potential drug targets. The rationale for the current study was to i) define the most common somatic drivers in a large cohort of patients with childhood MDS, ii) identify clonal/subclonal mutations, iii) infer clonal architecture of monosomy 7 and track the changes over time. We studied a cohort of 576 children and adolescents with primary MDS diagnosed between 1998 and 2016 in Germany, consisting of 482 (83%) patients with refractory cytopenia of childhood (RCC) and 94 (17%) MDS with excess blasts (EB). All patients underwent deep sequencing for 30 genes relevant to pediatric MDS and additional WES was performed in 150/576 patients. Using 20 computational predictors (including CADD and REVEL), population databases and germline testing, we identified the most likely pathogenic mutations. First, we excluded germline predisposing mutations in GATA2, SAMD9/SAMD9L and RUNX1 detected in 7% (38/576), 8% (43 of 548 evaluable) and 0.7% (4/576) of patients, respectively. Then we focused on the exploration of somatic aberrations. Most common karyotype abnormalities were monosomy 7 (13%, 77/576) and trisomy 8 (3%, 17/576). A total of 104 patients carried somatic mutations, expectedly more prevalent in the MDS-EB group as compared to RCC (56%, 53/94 vs 10.6%, 51/482; p<0.0001). The most recurrent somatic hits (≥ 1% frequency within 576 cases) were in SETBP1 (4.2%), ASXL1 (3.8%), RUNX1 (3.3%), NRAS (2.9%), KRAS (1.6%), PTPN11 (1.4%) and STAG2 (1%). We next focused on the -7 karyotype as a common denominator for the mutated group. Mutations were found in 54% (43/79), and the mutational load was significantly higher in -7 vs. non-7 (1.1 vs. 0.1 mutations per patient; p<0.001). In 11 patients with -7 and concomitant SETBP1/ASXL1 driver mutations, SETBP1 surpassed ASXL1 hits (median allelic frequency: 38% vs. 24%, p<0.05), while mutations in other genes were subclonal. Notably, these clonal patterns were independent of the underlying hereditary predisposition (4/11 GATA2; 3/11 SAMD9L). To explore the clonal hierarchy in MDS/-7 we performed targeted sequencing of several hundreds of single bone marrow derived colony forming cells (CFC) in 7 patients with MDS/-7. In all cases, the -7 clone was the founding clone followed by stepwise acquisition of mutations (i.e. -7>SETBP1>ASXL1; -7>SETBP1>ASXL1>PTPN11; -7>SETBP1>ASXL1>CBL, -7>EZH2>PTPN11). Finally, we tracked clonal evolution over time in 12 cases with 2-12 available serial samples using deep sequencing complemented by serial CFC-analysis. This confirmed that SETBP1 clones are rapidly expanding, while ASXL1 subclones exhibit an unstable pattern with clonal sweeping, while additional minor clones are acquired as late events. In 2 of 11 transplanted patients who experienced relapse, the original clonal architecture reappeared after HSCT. In summary, the hierarchy of clonal evolution in pediatric MDS with -7 follows a defined pattern with -7 aberrations arising as ancestral event followed by the acquisition of somatic hits. SETBP1 mutations are the dominant driver while co-dominant ASXL1 mutations are unstable. The functional interdependence and potential pharmacologic targetability of such somatic lesions warrants further studies. Disclosures Niemeyer: Celgene: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the short- and long-run dynamic linkages between selected cryptocurrencies, several major world currencies and major equity indices. The results show that despite sharing some common characteristics, the cryptocurrencies do not reveal any short- and long-term stochastic trends with exchange rates and/or equity returns. The dynamics of each cryptocurrency with the Chinese Yuan appears to be more turbulent than that with the other exchange rates. Each cryptocurrency appears to follow its own trend in the global financial market and is independent of the exchange rates or the global stock markets, thus making them suitable for inclusion in global investment portfolios. Design/methodology/approach The cryptocurrencies examined are Bitcoin, Dash, Ethereum, Monero, Stellar and XRP. In addition, data were collected on major exchange rates with respect to the US dollar, namely, the euro, British pound, Japanese yen and Chinese Yuan. Finally, the following major stock market indices were selected: SP500, DAX, DJIA, CAC, FTSE, NIKKEI, Hang Seng and Shanghai. The study applied vector autoregressive (VAR) model and Engle’s (2002) dynamic conditional correlation generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (DCC-GARCH) specification. Findings First, it was found that cryptocurrencies do not interact with each other because their correlations are weak and do not share a common long-run path; thus they are not cointegrated. Second, impulse response analysis from the VAR models indicate different reactions of each cryptocurrency to both exchange rate and equity shocks and that cryptocurrencies appear to be isolated from market-driven shocks. Third, the ups and downs in the cryptocurrencies’ dynamic conditional correlations (from the DCC-GARCH models) indicate that all cryptocurrencies were susceptible to speculative attacks and market events. Research limitations/implications This paper examines the dynamic linkages among the most important cryptocurrencies with major exchange rates and equity markets and, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, is the first paper to do so. Thus, interested market agents would gain valuable insights as to whether this new form of asset might be used for conducting monetary policies and portfolio construction on a global setting. Originality/value The paper contributes to the scant literature on the dynamic linkages among major cryptocurrencies and global financial assets. In general, given the differential relationships of each crypto with the equity markets, one could infer that they represent a decent short-run investment vehicle within a well-diversified, global asset portfolio (as they may increase the returns and reduce the overall risk of the portfolio).

Resumen. La persistencia de una brecha de género en los puestos de liderazgo empresarial supone un importante reto socioeconómico, ya que las desigualdades de género en el mercado laboral en general, y en los altos puestos de decisión en particular, no solo sofocan el desarrollo social sino que perjudican el crecimiento económico. Aunque la literatura existente ha ayudado a colocar el problema del reducido número de mujeres líderes en las agendas profesionales y políticas, el conocimiento sobre el tema todavía se encuentra fragmentado y no aborda sistemáticamente las posibles causas de esta en los altos niveles jerárquicos empresariales. Además, los estudios que analizan los instrumentos para promocionar el liderazgo femenino a menudo asumen barreras particulares para las mujeres y no asocian las distintas causas con instrumentos y políticas diferenciadas para luchar contra cada obstáculo. Por ello, el objetivo de esta investigación es arrojar luz de manera sistemática sobre las razones por las cuales existen trabas que impiden la equidad en estos puestos de una manera sistemática, estudiando políticas específicas para promover la carrera profesional de las mujeres. El trabajo concluye analizando la aceleración del progreso en presencia femenina en los consejos en Europa impulsada por la presión política y reguladora en algunos estados miembros de los 28 países de la UE y ofreciendo una serie de propuestas para apoyar la participación de las mujeres en los órganos de administración de las empresas.Palabras clave: mujeres líderes, igualdad, discriminación, gestión de la diversidad, mujeres en consejos.Abstract. The persistence of a gender gap in corporate leadership positions is a major socio-economic challenge, as gender inequalities in the labor market in general, and in high decision-making positions in particular, not only suffocate the social development but hurts economic growth. Although previous research has helped to place the issue of the small number of women in leadership on the agenda for both practitioners and policy makers, knowledge is still fragmented without systematically addressing possible causes of inequality in the highest corporate positions. In addition, the studies examining instruments to promote women’s leadership often assume particular barriers that women face and do not link the different causes of inequality with nuanced policy tools and policies to fight them. Therefore, this research goal is to shed light on the reasons why barriers preventing gender equality at the top corporate levels exists, studying and proposing specific policy measures to promote women careers. The paper concludes analyzing the accelerated progress on women representation on corporate leadership positions driven by political and regulatory pressure in a few Member States of the 28 EU countries and offering a series of suggestions to progress women presence on corporate boards.Keywords: women in leadership, equality, discrimination, diversity management, womenon boards.

Nesse texto, apresentamos uma visão sobre serviços ecossistêmicos. Para isso, definimos ecossistema e o papel do solo no seu funcionamento. Serviços ecossistêmicos são os benefícios que as pessoas obtêm dos ecossistemas. A história dos serviços ecossistêmicos aponta que o tema não é novo. Porém, após a Avaliação Ecossistêmica do Milênio, o termo serviços ecossistêmicos se consolidou e é tratado em várias áreas de conhecimento. Hoje, a busca do meio técnico-científico é para um procedimento adequado para avaliar e efetuar pagamento aos responsáveis por manter os serviços ecossistêmicos. Há cada vez mais evidências de que os serviços ecossistêmicos são atingidos em função da biodiversidade dos ecossistemas. Biodiversidade é a variabilidade de organismos vivos em todos os níveis biológicos, compreendendo a diversidade dentro de espécies, entre espécies e de ecossistemas. O papel do solo neste contexto consiste de que a biodiversidade de um ecossistema acontece a partir do solo. É por meio do solo que ocorre o desenvolvimento da estrutura vegetal e, assim, o fornecimento de energia e matéria para os demais seres vivos das teias alimentares terrestres. Um ecossistema biodiverso só é possível pelo manejo ecológico aplicado ao solo. A abordagem desse texto passa pela compreensão da biodiversidade como propulsora dos serviços ecossistêmicos, os princípios da sustentabilidade do planeta, as concepções de ecologia profunda e ecologia reconciliatória, e a conexão do homem na rede planetária. In this text, we present an overview of ecosystem services. We define ecosystem and the role of soil in its functioning. Ecosystem services are the benefits people obtain from ecosystems. The story of ecosystem services indicates that the subject is not new. However, after the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, the term ecosystem services consolidated and it is treated in various areas of knowledge. Today, the demand of the technical and scientific people is for an adequate procedure to assess and make payments to those responsible for maintaining ecosystem services. There is increasing evidence that ecosystem services are affected due to the biodiversity of ecosystems. Biodiversity is the variability of living organisms in all biological levels, including diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems. The role of the soil in this context is that the biodiversity of an ecosystem takes place from the soil. It is through the soil occurs the development of the plant structure and thus provides energy and material for the remaining life of the terrestrial food webs. A biodiversity ecosystem is possible by the ecological management applied to the soil. The approach of this text involves the understanding of biodiversity as a driver of ecosystem services, the principles of sustainability of the planet, the ideas of deep ecology and reconciliatory ecology, and the human connection in the global network. Keywords: biodiversity, deep ecology, sustainability.

This article aims to present a research result on meanings of formative practice in the context of Institutional Program of Initiation to Teaching (PIBID). As a research method, adopted the sociological phenomenology that allowed, among other aspects, to understand the symbolic dimension of formative practice for each students. One of the principles of that method consists in the perspective that senses emerge from the relation with the other, bringing to surface the idea of intersubjectivity, thus configuring a phenomenology of social relations. In order to access the senses produced in the world of life, in encounter of consciousness with the world, in specific case of this research, in the context of formative practice, semistructured interview has been used with five undergraduate students invited to give a break in the flow of life for think about teacher training. The senses revealed in this study are close to the concern with student learning, having the teacher as the main driver of this process, as well as the student and his way of learning. There are also senses about difficulties that each student presents in application of knowledge and draws attention to the relation between knowledge and reality. Sense about the teacher-student relationship reveals concern with professional and human dimension as well as authority of teacher's knowledge in the classroom with students.Resumo Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar resultado de pesquisa sobre sentidos de prática formativa no contexto do Programa Institucional de Bolsa de Iniciação à Docência (PIBID). Como método de pesquisa adotou-se a Fenomenologia Sociológica que permitiu, entre outros aspectos, compreender a dimensão simbólica da prática formativa para cada um dos estudantes. Um dos princípios desse método consiste na perspectiva de que os sentidos nascem da relação com o outro trazendo à tona a ideia de intersubjetividade configurando, assim, uma Fenomenologia das relações sociais. Para acessar os sentidos produzidos no mundo da vida, no encontro da consciência com o mundo, no caso especifico desta pesquisa, no contexto da prática formativa, foi utilizada a entrevista semiestruturada com cinco estudantes de licenciaturas diversas, convidados a suspender o fluxo da vida para pensar sobre sua formação docente. Os sentidos revelados neste estudo se aproximam na preocupação com a aprendizagem do estudante tendo o professor como principal condutor desse processo como, também, o estudante e seu modo de aprender. Aparecem, também, sentidos a respeito das dificuldades que cada aluno apresenta na aplicação do conhecimento e chama à atenção para a relação entre conhecimento e realidade. Sentidos sobre a relação professor-estudante revelam preocupação com a dimensão profissional e humana, bem como a autoridade do conhecimento do professor, em sala de aula, com os estudantes.ResumenEste artículo tiene como objetivo presentar resultados de investigación sobre sentidos de práctica formativa en el contexto del Programa Institucional de Beca de Iniciación a la Docencia (PIBID). Como método de investigación se adoptó si la fenomenología sociológica que permitió, entre otros aspectos, comprender la dimensión simbólica de la práctica formativa para cada uno de los estudiantes. Uno de los principios de este método consiste en la perspectiva de que los sentidos nacen de la relación con el otro trayendo a la superficie la idea de intersubjetividad, configurando así una fenomenología de las relaciones sociales. Para acceder a los sentidos producidos en el mundo de la vida, en el encuentro de la conciencia con el mundo, en el caso específico de esa investigación, en el contexto de la práctica formativa, se utilizó la entrevista semiestructurada con cinco estudiantes de licenciaturas diversas, invitados a suspender el flujo de la vida para pensar en su formación docente. Los sentidos revelados en este estudio se aproximan a la preocupación por el aprendizaje del estudiante teniendo el profesor como principal conductor de ese proceso como, también, el estudiante y su modo de aprender. Aparecen, también, sentidos respecto a las dificultades que cada alumno presenta en la aplicación del conocimiento y llama la atención sobre la relación entre conocimiento y realidad. Los sentidos sobre la relación profesor-estudiante revelan preocupación por la dimensión profesional y humana así como la autoridad del conocimiento del profesor, en el aula, con los estudiantes.Palavras-chave: Ensino superior, Fenomenologia sociológica, Prática formativa.Keywords: Higher education, Sociological phenomenology, Formative practice.Palabras clave: Enseñanza superior, Fenomenología sociológica, Práctica formativa.ReferencesAMADO, J. Manual de investigação qualitativa em educação. Portugal: Imprensa da Universidade de Coimbra, 2014.AMBROSETTI, N. B. et al. Contribuições do PIBID para a formação inicial de professores: o olhar dos estudantes. Educação em Perspectiva, Viçosa, v. 4, n. 1, p. 151-174, jan./jun. 2013. Disponível em http://www.seer.ufv.br/seer/educacaoemperspectiva/index.php/ppgeufv/article/viewFile/405/106 Acesso em 10/03/2017.ASSIS, A. S. de. Contribuições do PIBID para a valorização dos professores: o que dizem as teses e dissertações? 38ª Reunião Nacional da ANPEd – 01 a 05 de outubro de 2017, UFMA – São Luís. Disponível em http://38reuniao.anped.org.br/sites/default/files/resources/programacao/trabalho_38anped_2017_GT08_1256.pdf Acesso em 18/11/2017.BRASIL. Decreto nº 7.219, de 24 de junho de 2010. Dispõe sobre o Programa Institucional de Bolsa de Iniciação à Docência – Pibid. Disponível em http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_Ato2007-2010/2010/Decreto/D7219.htm Acesso em 08/03/2017.BRASIL. Lei nº 11.502, de 11 de julho de 2007. Modifica as competências e a estrutura organizacional da fundação Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - CAPES, de que trata a Lei no 8.405, de 9 de janeiro de 1992; e altera as Leis nos 8.405, de 9 de janeiro de 1992, e 11.273, de 6 de fevereiro de 2006, que autoriza a concessão de bolsas de estudo e de pesquisa a participantes de programas de formação inicial e continuada de professores para a educação básica. Disponível em https://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_Ato2007-2010/2007/Lei/L11502.htm Acesso em 08/03/2017.BRASIL. Portaria Normativa nº 38, de 12 de dezembro de 2007. Ministério da Educação. Dispõe sobre o Programa Institucional de Bolsa de Iniciação à Docência. Disponível em https://www.capes.gov.br/images/stories/download/legislacao/Portaria_Normativa_38_PIBID.pdf Acesso em 08/03/2017.CRUSOÉ, Nilma Margarida de Castro. Subprojeto de Pedagogia: A organização da prática pedagógica dos professores dos três (03) anos iniciais do Ensino Fundamental de nove (09) anos: articulação e continuidade da trajetória escolar. In: BAHIA, Projeto Institucional Microrrede de ensino-aprendizagem-formação. PIBID/UESB, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, 2012.CRUSOÉ, Nilma Margarida de Castro. Prática Pedagógica interdisciplinar na escola fundamental: sentidos atribuídos pelas professoras. Curitiba, PR:CRV, 2014.FELÍCIO, H. M. dos S. O PIBID com “terceiro espaço” de formação inicial de professores. Rev. Diálogo Educ., Curitiba, V. 14. n. 42, p. 415-434, maio/ago. 2014. Disponível em http://www2.pucpr.br/reol/index.php/dialogo?dd99=pdf&dd1=12752 Acesso em 03/07/2017.FREIRE, P. Professora sim, tia não: cartas a quem ousa ensinar. São Paulo: Olho Dágua, 1997.FREIRE, P. Pedagogia da autonomia: saberes necessários à prática educativa. 36 ed. São Paulo: Paz e Terra, 1996.GATTI, B.; BARRETTO, E. S. de S.; ANDRÉ, M. E. D. A. Políticas docentes no Brasil: um estado da arte. Brasília: UNESCO, 2011. Disponível em http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0021/002121/212183POR.pdf Acesso em 10/03/2017.HUSSERL, Edmund. Investigações lógicas: segundo volume, parte I: investigações para a fenomenologia e a Teoria do conhecimento. Rio de Janeiro: Forense, 2015.HUSSERL, Edmund. Ideias para uma fenomenologia pura e para uma filosofia fenomenológica: introdução geral à fenomenologia pura. Aparecida, SP: Ideias & Letras, 2006. MEC/UFRGS. Projeto de cooperação técnica MEC e UFRGS para construção de orientações curriculares para a Educação Infantil. Brasília, 2009. Disponível em http://portal.mec.gov.br/dmdocuments/relat_seb_praticas_cotidianas.pdf Acesso em 24/01/2019.MINAYO, M. C. de S. O desafio do conhecimento: pesquisa qualitativa em saúde. 12 ed. São Paulo: Hucitec, 2010.PROJETO INSTITUCIONAL DE BOLSA DE INICIAÇÃO À DOCÊNCIA – PIBID. Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia – UESB. 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Abstract Background Dypiridamol stress echocardiography (DSE) is an important tool for detecting reversible ischemia in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD); nonetheless the results of the test are related to visualization of wall motion abnormalities, moderately operator-dependent, and left anterior descending (LAD) artery reserve, resulting in a moderate sensibility and specificity. Aim of our study was to evaluate whether an an easy-to-use parameter like mitral annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE) could be useful to identify CAD during DSE. Methods We prospectively enrolled 300 patients with suspected CAD and perform a DSE; at rest and peak MAPSE was acquired. 59 patients with reversibile ischemia during stress echocardiography (positive) were referred to perform coronary angiography. Patients were divided according to MAPSE behaviour during DSE: group 1 (MAPSE ≤ 0) and group 2 (delta MAPSE &gt; 0 mm). Results The mean age of was 63 ± 11 years, male gender was prevalent (73%); no differences were found in risk factors and left vetnricular ejection fraction (LV-EF) between two groups.Coronary arteries were normal in 14 patients (23%), while significant stenosis (&gt;70%) was found in 45 patients (77%); in 31 patients (53%) left main (LM) or proximal LAD artery were involved, while in 17 (29%) and 22 (37%) right coronary artery and circumflex artery were affected respectively. Patients with CAD showed a lower (blunted or no increase) MAPSE after dypiridamole infusion, with a significative difference in Delta Mapse (Mapse peak-Mapse rest) between groups (0,2 mm vs 2,8 mm p = 0,004) (Figure 1B). By using a Receiver Operating Curve, the Area under the curve was 0,757, with the best cut-off value for CAD prediction at Delta Mapse= +2.5 mm (sensibility 0,667 and specificity 0,809 – p = 0.012 - Figure 1b). In particular, Delta Mapse was able to predict LM/LAD stenosis (Figure 1B AUC = 0.679 ;p = 0.019), rather than right coronary artery and circumflex artery disease, with higher predictivity than delta LV-EF (AUC = 0.577; p = 0.077). Discussion To our knowledge, this is the first study that compared the behaviour of MAPSE during dypiridamole infusion in patient with and withouth coronary artery disease. MAPSE is a well-known surrogate of longitudinal systolic function and have increased sensitivity over traditional methods of systolic performance such as LV-EF; in this context, dypiridamole induced reversible ischemia could affect prematurely MAPSE then EF or wall motion abnormalities. In our study, in patients with evidence of reversible ischemia during DSE, a blunted or no increase of MAPSE was able to predict CAD, mostly driven by LM/LAD disease, on top of other well known markers of ischemia. Incorporating this easy-to-use parameter could improve specificity of DSE and strenghten the suspect of reversibile ischemia when clear wall motion abnormalities are not found. Abstract P1555 Figure 1A and 1B

Abstract Many rare syndromes can be well described and delineated from other disorders by a combination of characteristic symptoms. These phenotypic features are best documented with terms of the Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO), which are increasingly used in electronic health records (EHRs), too. Many algorithms that perform HPO-based gene prioritization have also been developed; however, the performance of many such tools suffers from an over-representation of atypical cases in the medical literature. This is certainly the case if the algorithm cannot handle features that occur with reduced frequency in a disorder. With Cada, we built a knowledge graph based on both case annotations and disorder annotations. Using network representation learning, we achieve gene prioritization by link prediction. Our results suggest that Cada exhibits superior performance particularly for patients that present with the pathognomonic findings of a disease. Additionally, information about the frequency of occurrence of a feature can readily be incorporated, when available. Crucial in the design of our approach is the use of the growing amount of phenotype–genotype information that diagnostic labs deposit in databases such as ClinVar. By this means, Cada is an ideal reference tool for differential diagnostics in rare disorders that can also be updated regularly.