206 research outputs found
A multi-objective DIRECT algorithm for ship hull optimization
The paper is concerned with black-box nonlinear constrained multi-objective optimization problems. Our interest is the definition of a multi-objective deterministic partition-based algorithm. The main target of the proposed algorithm is the solution of a real ship hull optimization problem. To this purpose and in pursuit of an efficient method, we develop an hybrid algorithm by coupling a multi-objective DIRECT-type algorithm with an efficient derivative-free local algorithm. The results obtained on a set of “hard” nonlinear constrained multi-objective test problems show viability of the proposed approach. Results on a hull-form optimization of a high-speed catamaran (sailing in head waves in the North Pacific Ocean) are also presented. In order to consider a real ocean environment, stochastic sea state and speed are taken into account. The problem is formulated as a multi-objective optimization aimed at (i) the reduction of the expected value of the mean total resistance in irregular head waves, at variable speed and (ii) the increase of the ship operability, with respect to a set of motion-related constraints. We show that the hybrid method performs well also on this industrial problem
OpenCoesione and Monithon - a Transparency Effort
Context
OpenCoesione is the first portal about the fulfilment of investments and projects planned by the Italian central government and by the Italian Regions using the 20072013 European Cohesion funds. Together with Monithon, it is a “transparency tool” whose aim is to foster participation of the citizens and efficiency of the public sector bodies in order to improve the implementation of development policies. By now it is one of the best Open Data portal in Italy qualitywise.
Objective
Our goal is to show the utility of these portals, how this open information is supposed to help the civil society and how data quality might affect reuse.
Method
We engage in the empirical observation on how data are exposed and used, discussing specific examples, and applying some data quality metrics.
Results
We present some evidences on how open data can positively affect the public sector bodies and the spending of funds.
Conclusions
Underspending of EU Cohesion funds is a serious problem in Italy. OpenCoesione and Monithon can contribute solving this inefficiency, e.g., by presenting data in such a (standardised) way to enable their elaboration by third partie
A estimativa do tamanho amostral na experimentação animal: uma aplicação a digestibilidade de bovinos.
Polyphenols delivery by polymeric materials: challenges in cancer treatment
AbstractNanotechnology can offer different solutions for enhancing the therapeutic efficiency of polyphenols, a class of natural products widely explored for a potential applicability for the treatment of different diseases including cancer. While possessing interesting anticancer properties, polyphenols suffer from low stability and unfavorable pharmacokinetics, and thus suitable carriers are required when planning a therapeutic protocol. In the present review, an overview of the different strategies based on polymeric materials is presented, with the aim to highlight the strengths and the weaknesses of each approach and offer a platform of ideas for researchers working in the field
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Carbon Nanohorns as Effective Nanotherapeutics in Cancer Therapy
Different carbon nanostructures have been explored as functional materials for the development of effective nanomaterials in cancer treatment applications. This review mainly aims to discuss the features, either strength or weakness, of carbon nanohorn (CNH), carbon conical horn-shaped nanostructures of sp2 carbon atoms. The interest for these materials arises from their ability to couple the clinically relevant properties of carbon nanomaterials as drug carriers with the negligible toxicity described in vivo. Here, we offer a comprehensive overview of the recent advances in the use of CNH in cancer treatments, underlining the benefits of each functionalization route and approach, as well as the biological performances of either loaded and unloaded materials, while discussing the importance of delivery devices
Dextran-curcumin nanoparticles as a methotrexate delivery vehicle: A step forward in breast cancer combination therapy
With the aim to effectively deliver methotrexate (MTX) to breast cancer cells, we designed a nanocarrier system (DC) derived from the self-assembly of a dextran-curcumin conjugate prepared via enzyme chemistry with immobilized laccase acting as a solid biocatalyst. Nanoparticles consisted of homogeneously dispersed nanospheres with a mean diameter of 290 nm, as characterized by combined transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering investigations. DC was able to control the MTX release overtime (t1/2 value of 310 min), with cell internalization studies proving its presence inside MCF-7 cytoplasm. Finally, improved MTX efficacy was obtained in viability assays, and attributed to the synergy of curcumin moieties and loaded MTX as underlined by a combination index (CI) < 1
Functionalized carbon nanostructures versus drug resistance: Promising scenarios in cancer treatment
Carbon nanostructures (CN) are emerging valuable materials for the assembly of highly engineered multifunctional nanovehicles for cancer therapy, in particular for counteracting the insurgence of multi-drug resistance (MDR). In this regard, carbon nanotubes (CNT), graphene oxide (GO), and fullerenes (F) have been proposed as promising materials due to their superior physical, chemical, and biological features. The possibility to easily modify their surface, conferring tailored properties, allows different CN derivatives to be synthesized. Although many studies have explored this topic, a comprehensive review evaluating the beneficial use of functionalized CNT vs G or F is still missing. Within this paper, the most relevant examples of CN-based nanosystems proposed for MDR reversal are reviewed, taking into consideration the functionalization routes, as well as the biological mechanisms involved and the possible toxicity concerns. The main aim is to understand which functional CN represents the most promising strategy to be further investigated for overcoming MDR in cancer
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