bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A biologic basis for integrated malaria control.
Authors: McKenzie F Ellis , Baird J Kevin , Beier John C , Lal Altaf A , Bossert William H
Published: May 2017

In a series of models of Plasmodium falciparum dynamics, spontaneous local extinctions of the parasite sometimes occurred under steady, perennial-transmission conditions. These extinctions occurred only with extremely low mosquito densities or when the parameter describing the duration of human infection-blocking immunity was at its maximum value, and, simultaneously, those describing vector survivorship and the duration of human infectivity were at their minimum values. The range and frequency of extinctions increased with seasonal transmission, and decreased with the emergence of recombinant genotypes. Here we extend the immunity parameter up to levels that would describe a successful vaccine, and examine the combined influences of seasonality, genotype cross-reactivity, meiotic recombination, and human population turnover on parasite persistence. As Ross did 90 years ago, we conclude that malaria control programs that encompass several methods and targets of intervention are the most likely to succeed. Success is more likely if programs are cognizant of local circumstances of transmission, and, within that context, aim to reduce vector survivorship and human infectivity as well as augment human immunity.
Cytokine responses during acute simian Plasmodium cynomolgi and Plasmodium knowlesi infections.
Authors: Praba-Egge Anita D , Montenegro Sonia , Cogswell Frank B , Hopper Terryl , James Mark A
Published: May 2017

Experimental infection of non-human primates with simian malaria parasites offers a controlled system to study malarial immunity. Plasmodium cynomolgi (P. vivax-like) and P. knowlesi (P. falciparum-like) infections in the rhesus monkey were used as a model to test the hypothesis that initial acute infection stimulates type 1/pro-inflammatory cytokine expression followed by a gradual type 2/anti-inflammatory response upon re-infection. This study analyzed cytokine gene expression (interleukin-12, interferon-gamma, tumor necrosis factor-alpha = type 1; interleukin-4, interleukin-10 = type 2) using a semi-quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction in monkeys infected with each of the parasites (three per group). Clinicoparasitologic and serologic parameters were also monitored. Monkeys were re-infected to assess whether enhanced immunity could increase parasite clearance. The immune response to P. cynomolgi infection in rhesus monkeys seemed to be mediated by anti-parasite, pro-inflammatory responses during primary infection with a transition to protective type 2 responses after repeat infection. The immune responses to P. knowlesi infection were more varied. Anti-inflammatory responses were more prevalent during primary infection. Repeat infection stimulated a wide variety of responses; most included expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, a cytokine that has been associated with inflammatory and host-destructive effects (weight loss, fever, anemia). These observations further confirmed that the simian malaria/rhesus monkey model is well suited for studies on the regulation of immunity to acute Plasmodium infection.
Low antibody responses to variant surface antigens of Plasmodium falciparum are associated with severe malaria and increased susceptibility to malaria attacks in Gabonese children.
Authors: Tebo Anne E , Kremsner Peter G , Piper Karen P , Luty Adrian J F
Published: May 2017

We measured the levels of IgG antibodies with specificity for the variant surface antigens (VSA) of Plasmodium falciparum in plasma samples from a cohort of Gabonese children participating in a longitudinal case-control malaria study. Children with mild malaria had significantly higher anti-VSA IgG responses than their matched counterparts with severe malaria, most markedly during convalescence and when they were healthy. Over the course of the study, almost twice as many children who presented initially with mild rather than severe malaria developed antibodies recognizing the VSA expressed by each of a panel of three isolates, and those with the highest anti-VSA IgG responses had the lowest malaria attack rates. The results suggest that the clinical outcome of P. falciparum infection in young African children depends on their ability to both develop and maintain a broad profile of anti-VSA IgG antibodies, and that this ability is diminished in children who have experienced a severe malaria attack.
Genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum field samples from an isolated Colombian village.
Authors: GÃ³mez Diana , Chaparro Jacqueline , Rubiano Claudia , Rojas MarÃ­a Orfa , Wasserman Moises
Published: May 2017

Colombian field isolates of Plasmodium falciparum were analyzed for genetic diversity. Fifty-three samples were collected as thick smears from patients living in PanguÃ­, an isolated area with low migration. While the samples were being collected, PanguÃ­ was experiencing an epidemic outbreak of malaria. The samples were typified using nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of block 2 of the merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1) gene and nested PCR with mutation-specific primers for position 108 of the dihydrofolate reductase enzyme gene. The results for the circulating population of parasites in PanguÃ­ show low diversity--four allelic forms--using MSP1 as a marker, a fact that contrasts with data reported for certain Asian and African zones. A high percentage of mixed infections was observed, as was high complexity of the infection. No differential distributions were found for any allelic type.
Influence of vertebrate blood meals on the development of Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis and Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis in the sand fly Lutzomyia migonei (Diptera: Psychodidae).
Authors: Nieves Elsa , Pimenta Paulo F P
Published: May 2017

The effect of blood meals from humans and seven domestic, wild, or laboratory animals (dogs, horses, chickens, rats, opossums, mice, and hamsters) on the development of Leishmania braziliensis and L. amazonensis was studied in the sand fly Lutzomyia migonei. The development of L. braziliensis and L. amazonensis exhibited peripylarian and suprapylarian patterns of development, respectively, in the sand fly gut with all blood meals tested. The blood meal sources influenced the infection rate of the sand flies. In both the Leishmania species, the highest parasite density was obtained with blood from wild rats followed by skunk, human, and horse. The epidemiological significance of these observations may be related to the distribution of leishmaniasis and needs to be evaluated further.
Detection and stability of Japanese encephalitis virus RNA and virus viability in dead infected mosquitoes under different storage conditions.
Authors: Johansen Cheryl A , Hall Roy A , van den Hurk Andrew F , Ritchie Scott A , Mackenzie John S
Published: May 2017

A semi-nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was evaluated for detection of Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus in infected mosquitoes stored under simulated northern Australian summer conditions. The effect of silica gel, thymol, and a combination of the two on RNA stability and virus viability in dead mosquitoes were also examined. While JE virus RNA was relatively stable in mosquitoes held for up to 14 days after death, viable virus was not detected after day 1. Thymol vapor inhibited fungal contamination. Detection of single mosquitoes infected with JE virus in large pools of mosquitoes was also investigated. Single laboratory-infected mosquitoes were detected in pools of < or = 200 mosquitoes and in pools diluted to 0.2/100 and 0.1/100 mosquitoes, using the semi-nested PCR. However, the ability to detect live virus decreased as pool size increased. The semi-nested PCR proved more expensive than virus isolation for pools of 100 mosquitoes. However, the semi-nested PCR was faster and more economical using larger pools. Results indicate that surveillance of JE virus in mosquitoes using the semi-nested PCR is an alternative to monitoring seroconversions in sentinel pigs.
Epidemic of hepatitis E in a military unit in Abbotrabad, Pakistan.
Authors: Bryan Joe P , Iqbal Mohammad , Tsarev Sergei , Malik Iftikhar A , Duncan J Fred , Ahmed Aftab , Khan Asad , Khan Ahmed , Rafiqui Abdul Rauf , Purcell Robert H , Legters Llewellyn J
Published: May 2017

An outbreak of hepatitis caused by hepatitis E virus (HEV) in Abbottabad, Pakistan was traced to fecal contamination of a water system. Of 109 men hospitalized with hepatitis, 104 (95%) had serologic evidence of acute hepatitis E (IgM antibody to HEV [anti-HEV]), three (3%) probably had acute hepatitis E (high titers of IgG anti-HEV without IgM), and two had acute hepatitis A. Among a subset of 44 men with acute hepatitis E from whom three serum specimens were obtained over a four-month period, the anti-HEV IgG geometric mean titers (GMTs) decreased from 1,519 during the outbreak to 657 at four months. The IgM anti-HEV was detected in 40 (91%) of 44 sera obtained at admission (GMT = 533 during acute disease), but in only six (14%) four months later. The prevalence of anti-HEV in this population before the outbreak was estimated to be 30%. The presence of IgG anti-HEV appeared to protect against clinical hepatitis or development of serologic evidence of new infection with HEV. This is the second major epidemic of hepatitis E in the Pakistani military confirmed by an anti-HEV enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Evidence that pre-existing antibody as measured by this ELISA protects against disease is important for assessment of vaccine development.
The serum resistance-associated gene as a diagnostic tool for the detection of Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense.
Authors: Radwanska Magdalena , Chamekh Mustapha , Vanhamme Luc , Claes Filip , Magez Stefan , Magnus Eddy , de Baetselier Patrick , BÃ¼scher Philippe , Pays Etienne
Published: May 2017

In the search for new diagnostic methods that would distinguish Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense from T. b. brucei and T. b. gambiense, we have developed two polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primer sets. The first primer set was derived from the serum resistance-associated (SRA) gene of T. b. rhodesiense that confers resistance to lysis by normal human serum (NHS). The specificity of the SRA-based PCR was tested on 97 different trypanosome populations originating from various taxonomic groups, host species, and geographic regions. Only one of 25 T. b. rhodesiense samples was negative in this PCR, and none of 72 other samples were positive in this assay. Interestingly, a reference T. brucei strain (TREU927/4) currently used for genome sequencing was negative for the SRA gene; however, this strain was resistant to lysis by NHS. The second primer set was derived from a specific variant surface glycoprotein (VSG) expression site where the SRA gene is expressed (R-ES). This primer set identified the strain as T. b. rhodesiense in 17 of 17 SRA gene-positive strains in which it was tested. These data strongly suggest that expression of the SRA gene is generally involved in resistance to lysis by NHS in T. b. rhodesiense strains.
FREQUENCY, SEVERITY, AND COSTS OF ADVERSE REACTIONS FOLLOWING MASS TREATMENT FOR LYMPHATIC FILARIASIS USING DIETHYLCARBAMAZINE AND ALBENDAZOLE IN LEOGANE, HAITI, 2000
Authors: McLAUGHLIN STEVEN I. , RADDAY JEANNE , MICHEL MARIE CARMEL , ADDISS DAVID G. , BEACH MICHAEL J. , LAMMIE PATRICK J. , LAMMIE JOHN , RHEINGANS RICHARD , LAFONTANT JACK
Published: May 2017

In October 2000, 71,187 persons were treated for lymphatic filariasis using albendazole and diethylcar-bamazine (DEC) or DEC alone in Leogane, Haiti. We documented the frequency of adverse reactions, severity and cost of treatment. Adverse reactions were classified as minor, moderate, or severe. Overall, 24% (17,421) of the treated persons reported one or more adverse reactions. There were 15,916 (91%) minor and 1502 (9%) moderate adverse reaction reports. Men outnumbered women 2:1 in reporting moderate problems. Three patients, representing roughly one in 25,000 persons treated, were hospitalized with severe adverse reactions judged to be treatment-associated by physician review. The cost per person treated for adverse reactions was more than twice the cost per person treated for lymphatic filariasis ($1.60 versus $0.71). Severe adverse reactions to lymphatic filariasis treatment using DEC with or without albendazole are uncommon. Minor and moderate reactions are more commonly reported and their management represents a challenge to lymphatic filariasis elimination programs.
COMPARISON OF POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION METHODS FOR RELIABLE AND EASY DETECTION OF CONGENITAL TRYPANOSOMA CRUZI INFECTION
Authors: VIRREIRA MYRNA , TORRICO FAUSTINO , TRUYENS CARINE , ALONSO-VEGA CRISTINA , SOLANO MARCO , CARLIER YVES , SVOBODA MICHAL
Published: May 2017

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a potentially interesting diagnostic tool for detecting congenital Trypanosoma cruzi infection at birth. We have compared the sensitivity and capacity of a group of T. cruzi PCR primers in detecting the complete spectrum of known T. cruzi lineages, and to improve and simplify the detection of infection in neonatal blood. We found that the two primers, Tcz1/Tcz2 and Diaz1/Diaz2, which target the 195-basepair satellite repeat, detected all parasitic lineages with the same sensitivity. However, the intensity of the amplicon was somewhat higher with Tcz1/Tcz2. For other tested primers (nuclear DNA primers BP1/BP2, O1/O2, Pon1/Pon2, and Tca1/Tca2 and kinetoplast DNA primers S35′/S36′ and 121/122), either the intensity of amplicons varied according to T. cruzi lineages or the PCR assay was less sensitive. The use of the Tcz1/Tcz2 primers, which target a tandem repetitive sequence, requires a careful determination of the appropriate amount of Taq polymerase to avoid the formation of smears and multiple amplicon bands. The Tcz1/Tcz2 primers resulted in an intense 200-basepair amplicon with DNA extracted from blood equivalent to 0.02 parasites per assay when used with a simple DNA extraction method and of a low amount of Taq polymerase from a standard PCR kit. To better assess such PCR protocol, we assayed 311 samples of neonatal blood previously tested by parasitologic methods. The reliability of our PCR test was demonstrated, since all the 18 blood samples from newborns with congenital T. cruzi infection were positive, whereas the remaining samples (30 from control newborns of uninfected mothers and 262 of 263 from babies born to infected mothers) were negative. Since our PCR method is simple, reliable, robust, and inexpensive, it appears suitable for the detection of T. cruzi infection in neonatal blood, even in laboratories that are not equipped for performing the PCR.
SURVEILLANCE OF IN VIVO RESISTANCE OF PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM TO ANTIMALARIAL DRUGS FROM 1992 TO 1999 IN MALABO (EQUATORIAL GUINEA)
Authors: ROCHE JESÚS , GUERRA-NEIRA ANA , RASO JOSÉ , BENITO AGUSTÍN
Published: May 2017

From 1992–1999, we have assessed the therapeutic efficacy of three malaria treatment regimens (chloroquine 25 mg/kg over three days, pyrimethamine/sulfadoxine 1.25/25 mg/kg in one dose, and quinine 25–30 mg/kg daily in three oral doses over a four-, five-, or seven-day period) in 1,189 children under age 10 at Malabo Regional Hospital in Equatorial Guinea. Of those children, 958 were followed up clinically and parasitologically for 14 days. With chloroquine, the failure rate varied from 55% in 1996 to 40% in 1999; the early treatment failure rate increased progressively over the years, from 6% in 1992 to 30% in 1999. With pyrimethamine/sulfadoxine, the failure rate varied from 0% in 1996 to 16% in 1995. The short quinine treatment regimens used in 1992 and 1993 (4 and 5 days, respectively) resulted in significantly higher failure rates (19% and 22%, respectively) than the 7d regimen (3–5.5%). We conclude that: a) failure rates for chloroquine are in the change period (>25%), and urgent action is needed; b) pyrimethamine/ sulfadoxine failure rates are in the alert period (6–15%), and surveillance must be continued; and c) quinine failure rates are in the grace period (<6%), so quinine can be recommended.
EFFICACY OF MEFLOQUINE AND A MEFLOQUINE-ARTESUNATE COMBINATION THERAPY FOR THE TREATMENT OF UNCOMPLICATED PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM MALARIA IN THE AMAZON BASIN OF PERU
Authors: MARQUIÑO WILMER , HUILCA MARÍA , CALAMPA CARLOS , FALCONÍ EDUARDO , CABEZAS CÉSAR , NAUPAY RUBÉN , RUEBUSH TRENTON K.
Published: May 2017

In the Amazon Basin of Peru, more than 50% of patients with uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria fail to respond to treatment with chloroquine or sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine. To assist the National Malaria Control Program in identifying an alternative first-line therapy for this region, we conducted a trial of the safety and efficacy of mefloquine (MQ) compared with mefloquine-artesunate (MQ-AS) combination therapy. Patients with uncomplicated P. falciparum infections between the ages of 5 and 50 years were randomly assigned to be treated with either MQ (15 mg/kg in a single oral dose) or MQ (15 mg/kg) plus AS (4 mg/kg/day for three days). A total of 98 patients were enrolled and followed for 28 days. None of the 47 patients who received MQ alone or the 51 patients who received MQ-AS combination therapy had recurrences of parasitemia during the 28-day follow-up period. Asexual parasite densities decreased significantly more rapidly and the proportion of patients with gametocytes was significantly lower on days 3–21 in the MQ-AS group than in patients treated with MQ alone. All patients tolerated the medication well. Based on the results of this study and with the objective of slowing the development of resistance, the Peruvian Ministry of Health has decided to revise its malaria treatment policy and recommend combination therapy with MQ-AS as the new first-line treatment of uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria in the Amazon region.
BLINDING TRACHOMA: PREVENTION WITH THE SAFE STRATEGY
Authors: WEST SHEILA K.
Published: May 2017

Trachoma, the second leading cause of blindness worldwide, differentially affects the poorest communities, which may have the least access to resources. With the establishment of the Global Elimination of Blinding Trachoma by 2020 (GET 2020) goal, the World Health Organization has set an ambitious target for country programs. The currently recommended surgery for trichiasis/entropion, antibiotics for active disease, facial cleanliness, and environmental change to reduce transmission (SAFE) strategy targets all key elements believed to be necessary for a short- and long-term intervention program. This report reviews the need for a multi-faceted strategy, and the evidence supporting the elements of SAFE. Concerns about the implementation are discussed. Additional research is suggested that will enhance the implementation of the SAFE strategy. In the current climate of significant political and social momentum for trachoma control, the SAFE strategy is a safe bet to accomplish the elimination of blinding trachoma.
Advanced 3D movement analysis algorithms for robust functional capacity assessment
Authors: Hassani Asma , Kubicki Alexandre , Mourey France , Yang Fan
Published: May 2017

Objectives: We developed a novel system for in home functional capacities assessment in frail older adults by analyzing the Timed Up and Go movements. This system aims to follow the older people evolution, potentially allowing a forward detection of motor decompensation in order to trigger the implementation of rehabilitation. However, the pre-experimentations conducted on the ground, in different environments, revealed some problems which were related to KinectTM operation. Hence, the aim of this actual study is to develop methods to resolve these problems.

Methods: Using the KinectTM sensor, we analyze the Timed Up and Go test movements by measuring nine spatio-temporal parameters, identified from the literature. We propose a video processing chain to improve the robustness of the analysis of the various test phases: automatic detection of the sitting posture, patient detection and three body joints extraction. We introduce a realistic database and a set of descriptors for sitting posture recognition. In addition, a new method for skin detection is implemented to facilitate the patient extraction and head detection. 94 experiments were conducted to assess the robustness of the sitting posture detection and the three joints extraction regarding condition changes.

Results: The results showed good performance of the proposed video processing chain: the global error of the sitting posture detection was 0.67%. The success rate of the trunk angle calculation was 96.42%. These results show the reliability of the proposed chain, which increases the robustness of the automatic analysis of the Timed Up and Go.

Conclusions: The system shows good measurements reliability and generates a note reflecting the patient functional level that showed a good correlation with 4 clinical tests commonly used. We suggest that it is interesting to use this system to detect impairment of motor planning processes.

Citation: Hassani A, Kubicki A, Mourey F, Yang F. Advanced 3D movement analysis algorithms for robust functional capacity assessment. Appl Clin Inform 2017; 8: 454–469 https://doi.org/10.4338/ACI-2016-11-RA-0199
A MEDIAÇÃO COMUNITÁRIA COMO FERRAMENTA DE ACESSO A JUSTIÇA E DESENVOLVIMENTO NO ESPAÇO LOCAL
Authors: Camargo Daniela Arguilar
Published: May 2017

A mediação comunitária é um meio de exercício da cidadania, podendo ser entendido também como uma ferramenta de pacificação social. Acarretando em um modo de tratamento de seus próprios conflitos, sendo a pacificação social uma das finalidades do Estado, diretamente exercida pelos cidadãos. O mediador comunitário, em regra, é escolhido por pessoas da própria comunidade, ocasionando em situações de imparcialidade, contudo sua atuação é considerada pela maioria como sendo justa. Dessa forma, sendo da comunidade, o mediador conhece as pessoas antecipadamente, em algumas situações possui parentesco ou alguma outra relação de amizade. Contudo, essas relações, apensar de afetarem ou não, mostram-se irrelevantes no espaço local, uma vez que a sociedade reconhece ele como sendo uma figura neutra. Nesse sentido, o objetivo está na estrutura da mediação em que essa passa a demonstrar-se como uma forma facilitada de acesso a justiça, pois essa prática permite aos cidadãos uma atuação mais ativa no tratamento de seus conflitos, ganhando maior independência. Do exposto, a estrutura metodológica, parte da conceituação da mediação comunitária, para posteriormente analisar a influência da sociedade no papel do mediador, e ao final indicá-la como uma ferramenta de acesso a justiça no espaço local, sendo utilizado como método de pesquisa o bibliográfico e dedutivo.
LEGITIMIDADE CONSTITUCIONAL DA ATUAÇÃO INTERNACIONAL DOS MUNICÍPIOS BRASILEIROS: uma leitura à luz da teoria da Constituição Dirigente
Authors: Laisner Regina Claudia , Simini Danilo Garnica
Published: May 2017

A Constituição de 1988 deve ser considerada como documento inovador no reconhecimento dos municípios como entes federados que, de modo a atender às demandas públicas cada vez mais amplas, têm se lançado à atuação internacional. Ocorre que, em uma leitura da Constituição como mera definidora de competências, ainda caberia à União o monopólio da atividade internacional. Este artigo se propõe a uma nova leitura constitucional, de modo a defender e estimular juridicamente esta prática.
GESTÃO DE PRESÍDIOS POR PARCERIAS PÚBLICO-PRIVADAS: UMA ANÁLISE DAS ATIVIDADES PASSÍVEIS DE DELEGAÇÃO.
Authors: Mânica Fernando Borges , Brustolin Rafaella
Published: May 2017

O contrato disciplinado pela Lei Federal nº 11.079/2004, estabelece vínculo obrigacional entre a Administração e a iniciativa privada objetivando a implementação e gestão, total ou parcial, de obras, serviços ou atividades de interesse público, em que o parceiro privado assume a responsabilidade pelo financiamento, investimento e exploração do serviço. Levando em conta a situação trágica em que se encontra o Sistema Penitenciário Brasileiro, analisa-se sua possibilidade de cabimento como objeto de PPPs, bem como seus respectivos limites. Excluídos os poderes típicos estatais de polícia e jurisdicional, presentes na execução da pena, a realização da obra e as atividades materiais instrumentais podem ser delegadas aos particulares para melhor efetivação do escopo ressocializador disciplinado na Lei Federal nº 7.120/1984, conehcida como Lei de Execuções Penais.
O COMPARTILHAMENTO DE DADOS E INFORMAÇÕES PESSOAIS DE CONSUMIDORES: o abuso dos fornecedores e as propostas apresentadas no PLS 181/2014
Authors: Viana Rafael Souza , Santana Héctor Valverde
Published: May 2017

O trabalho visa analisar a ação indiscriminada dos fornecedores de produtos ou serviços que praticam a comercialização ilícita dos dados pessoais de seus clientes a terceiros, alheios à relação consumerista. Serão apontadas as consequências desse tipo de conduta e demonstradas quais são as infrações cometidas, além de trazer conceitos de Direito do Consumidor pertinentes ao tema, abordando, ainda, regras referentes aos direitos da personalidade, principal instituto violado. Algumas sugestões são apresentadas para que haja a regulamentação do tráfico de informações, fundamentadas no PLS 181/14, em trâmite no Senado Federal, o qual apresenta ideias que podem vir a beneficiar os consumidores e minimizar sua vulnerabilidade.
O PROCESSO PENAL E A ENGENHARIA DE CONTROLE DA POLÍTICA CRIMINAL
Authors: Suxberger Antonio Henrique Graciano , Lima José Wilson Ferreira
Published: May 2017

O artigo desenvolve uma abordagem teórico-argumentativa sobre a política criminal que dispõe sobre a priorização de tramitação de processos penais em casos de crimes graves (art. 394-A do Código de Processo Penal), como resposta ao crescente índice de criminalidade, contextualizando-a com a Teoria do Eficientismo. Utiliza como marco teórico a abordagem do Direito Processual Penal a partir das políticas públicas, para inserir o estudo da alteração legislativa do Código de Processo Penal no campo da tecnologia jurídica. Metodologicamente, a pesquisa analisa o atual estágio do processo político de enfrentamento da criminalidade, que pretende conferir maior celeridade para o processo penal em que se apuram infrações mais graves e se isso representa algum avanço em termos de política criminal, considerando que até então nenhuma medida foi adotada para a adequação dos ritos processuais que atendam a essa proposta de celeridade, de forma abrangente em toda a extensão do Sistema Persecutório-Penal. A abordagem legislativa do Direito Processual Penal como tecnologia jurídica é inovadora e deriva da necessidade de visualizar o funcionamento do sistema de justiça criminal a partir de seus arranjos institucionais.
Observations of atmospheric chemical deposition to high Arctic snow
Authors: Macdonald Katrina M. , Sharma Sangeeta , Toom Desiree , Chivulescu Alina , Hanna Sarah , Bertram Allan K. , Platt Andrew , Elsasser Mike , Huang Lin , Tarasick David , Chellman Nathan , McConnell Joseph R. , Bozem Heiko , Kunkel Daniel , Lei Ying Duan , Evans Greg J. , Abbatt Jonathan P. D.
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Rapidly rising temperatures and loss of snow and ice cover have demonstrated the unique vulnerability of the high Arctic to climate change. There are major uncertainties in modelling the chemical depositional and scavenging processes of Arctic snow. To that end, fresh snow samples collected on average every 4 days at Alert, Nunavut, from September 2014 to June 2015 were analyzed for black carbon, major ions, and metals, and their concentrations and fluxes were reported. Comparison with simultaneous measurements of atmospheric aerosol mass loadings yields effective deposition velocities that encompass all processes by which the atmospheric species are transferred to the snow. It is inferred from these values that dry deposition is the dominant removal mechanism for several compounds over the winter while wet deposition increased in importance in the fall and spring, possibly due to enhanced scavenging by mixed-phase clouds. Black carbon aerosol was the least efficiently deposited species to the snow.
Radiation in fog: Quantification of the impact on fog liquid water based on ground-based remote sensing
Authors: Wærsted Eivind G. , Haeffelin Martial , Dupont Jean-Charles , Delanoë Julien , Dubuisson Philippe
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Radiative cooling and heating impact the liquid water balance of fogs and therefore play an important role in determining their persistence or dissipation. We demonstrate that a quantitative analysis of the radiation-driven condensation and evaporation is possible in real-time using ground-based remote sensing observations (cloud radar, ceilometer, microwave radiometer). Seven continental fog events in mid-latitude winter are studied. The longwave (LW) radiative cooling of the fog is able to produce 40–70 g m−2 h−1 of liquid water by condensation when the fog liquid water path exceeds 30 g  m−2 and there are no clouds above the fog, which corresponds to renewing the fog water in 1–2 hours. The variability is related to fog temperature and atmospheric humidity, with warmer fogs below drier atmospheres producing more liquid water. The appearance of a cloud layer above the fog strongly reduces this cooling, especially a low cloud (up to 100 %), thereby perturbing the liquid water balance in the fog, and may therefore induce fog dissipation. Shortwave (SW) radiative heating by absorption by fog droplets is smaller than the LW cooling, but it can contribute significantly, inducing 10–15 g m−2 h−1 of evaporation in thick fogs at (winter) midday. We also find that the absorption of SW radiation by aerosols in the fog may strongly increase this evaporation rate if a large concentration of absorbing aerosols is present, but that this increase likely is below 30 % in most cases. The absorbed radiation at the surface can reach 40–120 W m−2 during daytime depending on the fog thickness. As in situ measurements indicate that 20–40 % of this energy is transferred to the fog as sensible heat, this surface absorption can contribute importantly to heating and evaporation of the fog, up to 30 g m−2 h−1 for thin fogs.
Validation of 10-year SAO OMI Ozone Profile (PROFOZ) Product Using Aura MLS Measurements
Authors: Huang Guanyu , Liu Xiong , Chance Kelly , Yang Kai , Cai Zhaonan
Published: May 2017

Abstract. We validate the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) ozone profile (PROFOZ) product including ozone profiles between 0.22–261 hPa and Stratospheric Ozone Columns (SOCs) down to 100, 215, and 261 hPa from October 2004 through December 2014 retrieved by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) algorithm against the latest Microwave Limb Sound (MLS) v4.2x data. We also evaluate the effects of OMI row anomaly (RA) on the retrieval by dividing the data set into before and after the occurrence of serious RA, i.e., pre-RA (2004–2008) and post-RA (2009–2014). During the pre-RA period, OMI ozone profiles agree very well with MLS data. Tthe global mean biases (MBs) are within 3 % between 0.22–100 hPa and negative 3–9 % for lower layers, and the standard deviations (SDs) are 3.5–5 % from 1–40 hPa, 6–10 % for upper layers and 5–20% for lower layers, after applying OMI averaging kernels to MLS data. OMI shows latitude and solar zenith angle (SZA) dependent biases, but MBs and SDs are mostly within 10 % except for low/high altitudes of high latitudes/SZAs. During the post-RA period, OMI retrievals degrade slightly between 5–261 hPa with MBs and SDs typically larger by 2–5%, and degrade much more, with larger MBs by up to 8 % and SDs by up to 15% for pressure less than ~ 5 hPa, where the MBs are larger by 10–15 % south of 40 °N due to the blockage effect of RA and smaller by 15–20 % north of 40 °N due to the solar contamination effect of RA. The much worse comparison at high altitudes indicates the UV-1 channel of pixels that are not flagged as RA is still affected by the RA. During the pre-RA period, OMI SOCs show very good agreement with MLS data with global mean MBs within 0.6 % and SDs of 1.9 % for SOCs down to 215 and 261 hPa and of 2.30 % for SOC down to 100 hPa. Despite clearly worse ozone profile comparison during the post-RA period, OMI SOCs only slightly degrade, with SDs larger by 0.4–0.6 % mostly due to looser spatial coincidence criterion as a result of missing data from RA and MBs larger by 0.4–0.7 %. The retrieval comparison indicates significant bias trends, especially during the post-RA period. The spatiotemporal variation of the retrieval performance suggests the need to improve OMI’s radiometric calibration to maintain the long-term stability and spatial consistency of the PROFOZ product. The good comparison with SOC down to 261 hPa supports that MLS ozone at 261 hPa, recommended for further evaluation by the MLS team, is suitable for scientific use.
Analytical solution of the nitracline with the evolution of subsurface chlorophyll maximum in stratified water columns
Authors: Gong Xiang , Jiang Wensheng , Wang Linhui , Gao Huiwang , Boss Emmanuel , Yao Xiaohong , Kao Shuh-Ji , Shi Jie
Published: May 2017

Abstract. In a stratified water column, the nitracline is a layer where the nitrate concentration increases below the nutrient-depleted upper layer, exhibiting a strong vertical gradient in the euphotic zone. The subsurface chlorophyll maximum layer (SCML) forms near the bottom of the euphotic zone, acting as a trap to diminish the upward nutrient supply. Depth and steepness of the nitracline are important measurable parameters related to the vertical transport of nitrate into the euphotic zone. The correlation between the SCML and the nitracline has been widely reported in the literature, but the analytic solution for the relationship between them is not well established. By incorporating a piecewise function for the approximate Gaussian vertical profile of chlorophyll, we derive analytical solutions of a specified nutrient–phytoplankton model. The model is well suited to explain basic dependencies between a nitracline and an SCML. The analytical solution shows that the nitracline depth is deeper than the depth of the SCML, shoaling with an increase in the light attenuation coefficient and with a decrease in surface light intensity. The inverse proportional relationship between the light level at the nitracline depth and the maximum rate of new primary production is derived. Analytic solutions also show that a thinner SCML corresponds to a steeper nitracline. The nitracline steepness is positively related to the light attenuation coefficient but independent of surface light intensity. The derived equations of the nitracline in relation to the SCML provide further insight into the important role of the nitracline in marine pelagic ecosystems.
On the value of water quality data and informative flow states in karst modelling
Authors: Hartmann Andreas , Barberá Juan Antonio , Andreo Bartolomé
Published: May 2017

Abstract. If properly applied, karst hydrological models are a valuable tool for karst water resources management. If they are able to reproduce the relevant flow and storage processes of a karst system, they can be used for prediction of water resources availability when climate or land use are expected to change. A common challenge to apply karst simulation models is the limited availability of observations to identify their model parameters. In this study, we quantify the value of information when water quality data (NO3− and SO4−2) is used in addition to discharge observations to estimate the parameters of a process-based karst simulation model at a test site in Southern Spain. We use a three-step procedure to (1) confine an initial sample of 500 000 model parameter sets by discharge and water quality observations, (2) identify alterations of model parameter distributions through the confinement, and (3) quantify the strength of the confinement for the model parameters. We repeat this procedure for flow states, at which the system discharge is controlled by the unsaturated zone, the saturated zone, and the entire time period including times when the spring is influenced by a nearby river. Our results indicate that NO3− provides most information to identify the model parameters controlling soil and epikarst dynamics during the unsaturated flow state. During the saturated flow state, SO4−2 and discharge observations provide the best information to identify the model parameters related to groundwater processes. We found reduced parameter identifiability when the entire time period is used as the river influence disturbs parameter estimation. We finally show that most reliable simulations are obtained when a combination of discharge and water quality date is used for the combined unsaturated and saturated flow states.
OVERVIEW OF PHOTOGRAMMETRIC MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY USING ENDOSCOPES
Authors: Conen N. , Luhmann T.
Published: May 2017

Abstract. This contribution provides an overview of various photogrammetric measurement techniques in minimally invasive surgery and presents a self-developed prototypical trinocular endoscope for reliable surface measurements. Most of the presented techniques focus on applications regarding laparoscopy, which mean endoscopic operations in the abdominal or pelvic cavities. Since endoscopic operations are very demanding to the surgeon, various assistant systems have been developed. Imaging systems may use photogrammetric techniques in order to perform 3D measurements during operation. The intra-operatively acquired 3D data may be used for analysis, model registration, guidance or documentation. Passive and active techniques have been miniaturised, integrated into endoscopes and investigated by several research groups. The main advantages and disadvantages of several active and passive techniques adapted to laparoscopy are described in this contribution. Additionally, a self-developed trinocular endoscope is described and evaluated.
Brief communication: Accuracy of the fallen blocks
volume-frequency law
Authors: De Biagi Valerio
Published: May 2017

Abstract. De Biagi et al. (2017) have proposed a procedure for building a fallen block volume-frequency law for rockfall phenomenon. The input data are got both from the recording of rockfall events and from the survey of fallen block volumes. The epistemic uncertainty present in the approach affects the value of the parameters of the law. It is shown how to quantify the error due to missed events and to limited set of measured blocks. A procedure for getting a rock block volume for the design of engineering applications is proposed.
A simple model for the evolution of melt pond coverage on permeable Arctic sea ice
Authors: Popović Predrag , Abbot Dorian
Published: May 2017

Abstract. As the melt season progresses, sea ice in the Arctic often becomes permeable enough to allow for nearly complete drainage of meltwater that has collected on the ice surface. Melt ponds that remain after drainage are hydraulically connected to the ocean and correspond to regions of sea ice whose surface is below sea level. We present a simple model for the evolution of melt pond coverage on such permeable sea ice floes in which we allow for spatially varying ice melt rates and assume the whole floe is in hydrostatic balance. The model is represented by two simple ordinary differential equations, where the rate of change of pond coverage depends on the pond coverage. All the physical parameters of the system are summarized by four strengths that control the relative importance of the terms in the equations. The model both fits observations and allows us to understand the behavior of melt ponds in a way that is often not possible with more complex models. Examples of insights we can gain from the model are that (1) the pond growth rate is more sensitive to changes in bare sea ice albedo than changes in pond albedo, (2) ponds grow slower on smoother ice, and (3) ponds respond strongest to freeboard sinking on first-year ice and sidewall melting on multiyear ice. We also show that under a global warming scenario, pond coverage would increase, decreasing the overall ice albedo and leading to ice thinning that is likely comparable to thinning due to direct forcing. Since melt pond coverage is one of the key parameters controlling the albedo of sea ice, understanding the mechanisms that control the distribution of pond coverage will help improve large-scale model parameterizations and sea ice forecasts in a warming climate.
The first luminescence dating of Tibetan glacier basal sediment
Authors: Zhang Zhu , Hou Shugui , Yi Shuangwen
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Dating of ice cores drilled in the high mountain glaciers is difficult because seasonal variations cannot be traced at depth due to rapid thinning of the ice layers. Here we provide the first luminescence dating of the basal sediment of the Chongce ice cap in the northwest Tibetan Plateau. Assuming the sediment is of similar (or older) age as the surrounding ice, the dating result of 42 ± 4 ka provides an upper limit for the age of the ice cap. This result is more than one magnitude younger than the previously suggested age of the basal ice of the nearby Guliya ice cap (~ 40 km in distance).
Emerson's Transcendentalism of Common Life
Authors: Friesner Nicholas
Published: May 2017

Ralph Waldo Emerson's work is often treated as either part of the ongoing secularization of American culture or marking the emergence of a distinct form of spirituality. In both cases, he is treated as presenting a newness which stands at some remove from religion. This article offers a different paradigm for reading Emerson's religion, one that accepts with Emerson that “religion” is a continually evolving concept that must bring together religious tradition with religious innovation. This article offers a reading of his religious thought by focusing on three themes: the moral sentiment, the Divine, and the religious life.
Assessment of Malpractice Claims Associated With Acute Compartment Syndrome
Authors: DePasse John Mason , Sargent Rachel , Fantry Amanda J. , Bokshan Steven L. , Palumbo Mark A. , Daniels Alan H.
Published: May 2017

Background:

Because acute compartment syndrome is one of the few limb-threatening and life-threatening orthopaedic conditions and is difficult to diagnose, it is a frequent source of litigation. Understanding the factors that lead to plaintiff verdicts and higher indemnity payments may improve patient care by identifying common pitfalls.

Methods:

The VerdictSearch legal claims database was queried for the term “compartment syndrome.” After 46 cases were excluded for missing information or irrelevancy, 139 cases were reviewed. The effects of plaintiff demographics, mechanism of injury, and complications were assessed.

Results:

Of 139 cases, 37 (27%) were settled, 69 (50%) resulted in a defendant ruling, and 33 (24%) resulted in a plaintiff ruling. Juries were more likely to rule in favor of juvenile plaintiffs than adult patients (P = 0.002) and female plaintiffs than male plaintiffs (P = 0.008), but indemnity payments were not affected by the age or sex of the plaintiff. Plaintiffs who experienced acute compartment syndrome as a complication of surgery were more likely to win their suit and receive higher awards (P < 0.05), compared with those in whom the condition developed as a result of trauma. Amputation or delay in diagnosis or treatment did not affect plaintiff verdicts or awards.

Conclusion:

Defendants were more likely to lose a lawsuit concerning the management of acute compartment syndrome if the patient was a woman or child or if acute compartment syndrome developed as a complication of a surgical procedure.
Resident Selection Beyond the United States Medical Licensing Examination
Authors: Porter Scott E. , Graves Matt
Published: May 2017

The resident application process has matured over the decades to become an efficient system. An unforeseen consequence of this efficiency is the massive number of applications that each orthopaedic surgery residency program must sort through to arrive at a manageable rank list. The most widely used filter in today’s application cycle is an applicant’s performance on the United States Medical Licensing Examination Step 1. Although no evidence exists to prove that this examination is predictive of any of the potentially defining characteristics of a successful resident, orthopaedic surgery programs historically have had few alternative options. A growing body of literature suggests that a more focused investigation of an applicant’s inherent personality traits, as evidenced by his or her past accomplishments, as well as a structured use of questionnaires as part of the application process may improve the ability of orthopaedic surgery residency programs to predict who will be a successful resident.
Middle Grade Students’ Concept Images of Algebraic Concepts
Authors: Tekin-Sitrava Reyhan
Published: May 2017

This study investigates middle school students’ concept images of algebraic concepts which are term, constant term, variable, and coefficient. Also, the study aimed to explore their performances in defining these concepts correctly. A phenomenological method was used to support methodological perspective and to reveal the findings of the study. Twenty seven 7th grade students completed a questionnaire, which aims to assess students’ concept images of the algebraic concepts. Twelve of them were selected for semi-structured interviews on the basis of purposeful sampling method to clarify and expand on their responses to the questionnaire. The data was analyzed via the content analysis approach. The analysis of the data indicated that students have various concept images of basic algebraic concepts. More interestingly, this study showed that although students’ performances on defining the algebraic concepts were above 50% for each concept, 7th grade students’ concept images of the algebraic concepts is not so strong for learning algebra conceptually.
Determination of total phosphorus content in bottom sediment samples using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry
Authors: Szczepańska Katarzyna , Dembska Grażyna , Zegarowski Łukasz , Pazikowska-Sapota Grażyna , Galer-Tatarowicz Katarzyna , Aftanas Barbara
Published: May 2017

This paper describes the methodology of inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry for determining the total phosphorus content in bottom sediment samples. Homogenized samples subjected to a microwave-assisted aqua regia digestion, and next analyzed for total phosphorus content using the inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer. The method was optimized and its validation parameters were determined. Assessing the selectivity of the method, found the spectral interferences of other elements (especially copper) on P can be partially eliminated by using the optimal operating conditions. The method exhibited excellent linearity (r>0.999) in the entire measurement range (25-5000 mg Pkg-1) and very good recovery (99%). It was also characterized by high repeatability (relative standard deviation of 1%) and reproducibility (reproducibility standard deviation of 10%). The relative expanded uncertainty of the method was estimated at 21.2%.
Le complot médiatique : réseaux sociaux et manipulations collectives chez Jean-Jacques
Pelletier
Authors: David Sylvain , Marcotte Sophie
Published: May 2017

Cet article a pour objet l’« imaginaire médiatique » observable dans les trois
derniers romans de Jean-Jacques Pelletier : Les Visages de l’humanité (2012),
Dix petits hommes blancs (2014) et Machine God (2015). On y postule que la
mise en scène d’un complot terroriste instrumentalisant les réseaux socionumériques
(Facebook, Twitter) aux fins d’une manipulation savamment calculée de l’opinion publique
constitue à la fois une actualisation de la démarche antérieure de l’auteur (les médias
comme reflet interne de l’intrigue) et un procédé narratif permettant d’illustrer, voire de
dénoncer, certains effets pervers propres à la circulation de l’information dans le Web
2.0.