bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suicide among first-generation and second-generation immigrants in Sweden: association with labour market marginalisation and morbidity
Authors: Di Thiene Domitilla , Alexanderson K , Tinghög P , La Torre G , Mittendorfer-Rutz E
Published: December 2014

Background

Previous research suggests that first-generation immigrants have a lower suicide risk than those both born in Sweden and with both parents born in Sweden (natives), while the suicide risk in the second generation seems higher. The aim of this study was to investigate to what extent suicide risk in first-generation and second-generation (both parents born abroad) and intermediate-generation (only one parent born abroad) immigrants compared with natives is associated with sociodemographic factors, labour market marginalisation and morbidity.

Methods

A prospective population-based cohort study of 4 034 728 individuals aged 16–50 years was followed from 2005 to 2010. HRs for suicide were calculated for first-generation, intermediate-generation and second-generation immigrants compared with natives. Analyses were controlled for sociodemographic factors, morbidity and labour market marginalisation.

Results

The HR of suicide was significantly lower in first-generation immigrants (HR 0.83 CI 0.76 to 0.91), and higher in second-generation (HR 1.32, CI 1.15 to 1.52) and intermediate-generation immigrants (HR 1.20, CI 1.08 to 1.33) in comparison to natives. The excess risk was explained by differences in sociodemographics, morbidity and labour market marginalisation. In the fully adjusted models, a higher HR remained only for the Nordic second generation (HR 1.29, CI 1.09 to 1.52). There were no sex differences in HRs.

Conclusions

The risk of suicide was shown to be lower in the first generation and higher in the second generation compared with natives. The higher HR in the Nordic second generation was not explained by differences in sociodemographics, labour market marginalisation and morbidity. Further research is warranted to investigate factors underlying this excess risk.
Kinetic theory of protein filament growth: Self-consistent methods and perturbative techniques
Authors: Michaels Thomas C. T. , Knowles Tuomas P. J.
Published: December 2014

Filamentous protein structures are of high relevance for the normal functioning of the cell, where they provide the structural component for the cytoskeleton, but are also implicated in the pathogenesis of many disease states. The self-assembly of these supra-molecular structures from monomeric proteins has been studied extensively in the past 50 years and much interest has focused on elucidating the microscopic events that drive linear growth phenomena in a biological setting. Master equations have proven to be particularly fruitful in this context, allowing specific assembly mechanisms to be linked directly to experimental observations of filamentous growth. Recently, these approaches have increasingly been applied to aberrant protein polymerization, elucidating potential implications for controlling or combating the formation of pathological filamentous structures. This article reviews recent theoretical advances in the field of filamentous growth phenomena through the use of the master-equation formalism. We use perturbation and self-consistent methods for obtaining analytical solutions to the rate equations describing fibrillar growth and show how the resulting closed-form expressions can be used to shed light on the general physical laws underlying this complex phenomenon. We also present a connection between the underlying ideas of the self-consistent analysis of filamentous growth and the perturbative renormalization group.
FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECT OF ACTUATOR COUPLING CONDITIONS ON ROUND WINDOW STIMULATION
Authors: TIAN JIABIN , HUANG XINSHENG , RAO ZHUSHI , TA NA , XU LIFU
Published: December 2014

The finite element (FE) method was used to analyze the effect of coupling conditions between the actuator and the round window membrane (RWM) on the performance of round window (RW) stimulation. A FE model of the human ear consisting of the external ear canal, middle ear and cochlea was firstly developed, and then validation of this model was accomplished through comparison between analytical results and experimental data in the literature. Intracochlear pressure were derived from the model under normal forward sound stimulation and reverse RW stimulation. The equivalent sound pressure of RW stimulation was then calculated via comparing the differential intracochlear pressure produced by the actuator and normal ear canal sound stimulus. The actuator was simulated as a floating mass and placed onto the middle ear cavity side of RWM. Two aspects about the actuator coupling conditions were considered in this study: (1) the cross-section area of the actuator relative to the RWM; (2) the coupling layer between the actuator and the RWM. The results show that smaller actuator size can improve the implant performance of RW stimulation, and size requirements of the actuator can also be reduced by introducing a coupling layer between the actuator and RWM, which will benefit the manufacture of the actuator.
Leptin in pregnancy and development: a contributor to adulthood disease?
Authors: Briffa Jessica F. , McAinch Andrew J. , Romano Tania , Wlodek Mary E. , Hryciw Deanne H.
Published: December 2014

Emerging research has highlighted the importance of leptin in fetal growth and development independent of its essential role in the maintenance of hunger and satiety through the modulation of neuropeptide Y and proopiomelanocortin neurons. Alterations in maternal-placental-fetal leptin exchange may modify the development of the fetus and contribute to the increased risk of developing disease in adulthood. In addition, leptin also plays an important role in reproductive functions, with plasma leptin concentrations rising in pregnant women, peaking during the third trimester. Elevated plasma leptin concentrations occur at the completion of organogenesis, and research in animal models has demonstrated that leptin is involved in the development and maturation of a number of organs, including the heart, brain, kidneys, and pancreas. Elevated maternal plasma leptin is associated with maternal obesity, and reduced fetal plasma leptin is correlated with intrauterine growth restriction. Alterations in plasma leptin during development may be associated with an increased risk of developing a number of adulthood diseases, including cardiovascular, metabolic, and renal diseases via altered fetal development and organogenesis. Importantly, research has shown that leptin antagonism after birth significantly reduces maturation of numerous organs. Conversely, restoration of the leptin deficiency after birth in growth-restricted animals restores the offspring's body weight and improves organogenesis. Therefore, leptin appears to play a major role in organogenesis, which may adversely affect the risk of developing a number of diseases in adulthood. Therefore, greater understanding of the role of leptin during development may assist in the prevention and treatment of a number of disease states that occur in adulthood.
Induction of Telomere Dysfunction Mediated by the Telomerase Substrate Precursor 6-Thio-2′-Deoxyguanosine
Authors: Mender Ilgen , Gryaznov Sergei , Dikmen Z. Gunnur , Wright Woodring E. , Shay Jerry W.
Published: December 2014

The relationships between telomerase and telomeres represent attractive targets for new anticancer agents. Here, we report that the nucleoside analogue 6-thio-2′-deoxyguanosine (6-thio-dG) is recognized by telomerase and is incorporated into de novo–synthesized telomeres. This results in modified telomeres, leading to telomere dysfunction, but only in cells expressing telomerase. 6-Thio-dG, but not 6-thioguanine, induced telomere dysfunction in telomerase-positive human cancer cells and hTERT-expressing human fibroblasts, but not in telomerase-negative cells. Treatment with 6-thio-dG resulted in rapid cell death for the vast majority of the cancer cell lines tested, whereas normal human fibroblasts and human colonic epithelial cells were largely unaffected. In A549 lung cancer cell–based mouse xenograft studies, 6-thio-dG caused a decrease in the tumor growth rate superior to that observed with 6-thioguanine treatment. In addition, 6-thio-dG increased telomere dysfunction in tumor cells in vivo. These results indicate that 6-thio-dG may provide a new telomere-addressed telomerase-dependent anticancer approach.

Significance: Telomerase is an almost universal oncology target, yet there are few telomerase-directed therapies in human clinical trials. In the present study, we demonstrate a small-molecule telomerase substrate approach that induces telomerase-mediated targeted “telomere uncapping,” but only in telomerase-positive cancer cells, with minimal effects in normal telomerase-negative cells. Cancer Discov; 5(1); 82–95. ©2014 AACR.

See related commentary by Wellinger, p. 19.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1
Exercise has a Disproportionate Role in the Pathogenesis of Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia/Cardiomyopathy in Patients Without Desmosomal Mutations
Authors: Sawant Abhishek C. , Bhonsale Aditya , te Riele Anneline S. J. M. , Tichnell Crystal , Murray Brittney , Russell Stuart D. , Tandri Harikrishna , Tedford Ryan J. , Judge Daniel P. , Calkins Hugh , James Cynthia A.
Published: December 2014

Background

Exercise is associated with age‐related penetrance and arrhythmic risk in carriers of arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia/cardiomyopathy (
ARVD
/C)‐associated desmosomal mutations; however, its role in patients without desmosomal mutations (gene‐elusive) is uncertain. This study investigates whether exercise is (1) associated with onset of gene‐elusive
ARVD
/C and (2) has a differential impact in desmosomal and gene‐elusive patients.

Methods and Results

Eighty‐two
ARVD
/C patients (39 desmosomal, all probands) were interviewed about regular physical activity from age 10. Participation in endurance athletics, duration (hours/year), and intensity (
MET
‐Hours/year) of exercise prior to clinical presentation were compared between patients with desmosomal and gene‐elusive
ARVD
/C. All gene‐elusive patients were endurance athletes. Gene‐elusive patients were more likely to be endurance athletes (
P
<0.001) and had done significantly more intense (
MET
‐Hrs/year) exercise prior to presentation (
P
<0.001), particularly among cases presenting < age 25 (
P
=0.027). Family history was less prevalent among gene‐elusive patients (9% versus 40% desmosomal,
P
<0.001), suggesting a greater environmental influence. Gene‐elusive patients without family history did considerably more intense exercise than other
ARVD
/C patients (
P
=0.004). Gene‐elusive patients who had done the most intense (top quartile
MET
‐Hrs/year) exercise prior to presentation had a younger age of presentation (
P
=0.025), greater likelihood of meeting
ARVD
/C structural Task Force Criteria (100% versus 43%,
P
=0.02), and shorter survival free from a ventricular arrhythmia in follow‐up (
P
=0.002).

Conclusions

Gene‐elusive, non‐familial
ARVD
/C is associated with very high intensity exercise suggesting exercise has a disproportionate role in the pathogenesis of these cases. As exercise negatively modifies cardiac structure and promotes arrhythmias, exercise restriction is warranted.
Description of two new genera and two new species of Metarbelidae (Lepidoptera, Cossoidea) from the Northeastern Congolian Lowland Forests Ecoregion (Central Africa)
Authors: LEHMANN INGO
Published: December 2014

The genera Dianfosseya gen. nov. and Janegoodallia gen. nov. and their single species D. leakeyi sp. nov. and J. davenporti sp. nov. are both described from Isiro, north-eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, Central Africa (Afrotropical Region). Wing pattern and male genitalia of the new species are depicted and notes on the habitat are presented.
Foot posture as a risk factor for lower limb overuse injury: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Neal Bradley S , Griffiths Ian B , Dowling Geoffrey J , Murley George S , Munteanu Shannon E , Franettovich Smith Melinda M , Collins Natalie J , Barton Christian J
Published: December 2014

Background

Static measures of foot posture are regularly used as part of a clinical examination to determine the need for foot level interventions. This is based on the premise that pronated and supinated foot postures may be risk factors for or associated with lower limb injury. This systematic review and meta‐analysis investigates foot posture (measured statically) as a potential risk factor for lower limb overuse injuries.

Methods

A systematic search was performed using Medline, CINAHL, Embase, SportDiscus in April 2014, to identify prospective cohort studies that investigated foot posture and function as a risk factor for lower limb overuse injury. Eligible studies were classified based on the method of foot assessment: (i) static foot posture assessment; and/or (ii) dynamic foot function assessment. This review presents studies evaluating static foot posture. The methodological quality of included studies was evaluated by two independent reviewers, using an adapted version of the Epidemiological Appraisal Instrument (EAI). Where possible, effects were expressed as standardised mean differences (SMD) for continuous scaled data, and risk ratios (RR) for nominal scaled data. Meta‐analysis was performed where injuries and outcomes were considered homogenous.

Results

Twenty‐one studies were included (total n = 6,228; EAI 0.8 to 1.7 out of 2.0). There was strong evidence that a pronated foot posture was a risk factor for medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) development and very limited evidence that a pronated foot posture was a risk factor for patellofemoral pain development, although associated effect sizes were small (0.28 to 0.33). No relationship was identified between a pronated foot posture and any other evaluated pathology (i.e. foot/ankle injury, bone stress reactions and non‐specific lower limb overuse injury).

Conclusion

This systematic review identified strong and very limited evidence of small effect that a pronated foot posture is a risk factor for MTSS and patellofemoral pain respectively. Evaluation of static foot posture should be included in a multifactorial assessment for both MTSS and patellofemoral pain, although only as a part of the potential injury risk profile. Whilst the included measures are clinically applicable, further studies are required to determine their relationship with dynamic foot function.
Preferência alimentar de Phaedon confinis Klug (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) frente a quatro espécies de Senecio (Asteraceae) de interesse pecuário
Authors: Milléo Julianne , Karam Fernando Sérgio Castilhos , Farago Paulo Vitor
Published: December 2014

Uma das principais causas de mortalidade em bovinos está relacionada à intoxicação por plantas de Senecio spp. (Asteraceae). Assim, alternativas para a redução dessas plantas na região sul do Brasil são necessárias a fim de diminuir as perdas na atividade pecuária. Estudos indicam o crisomelídeo Phaedon confinis Klug como potencial agente de controle biológico de plantas de Senecio brasiliensis Less. O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar a preferência alimentar de larvas e adultos de P. confinis pelas espécies S. brasiliensis, Senecio madagascariensis Poiret, Senecio oxyphyllus DC e Senecio selloi DC. Os insetos foram alimentados com S. brasiliensis anteriormente ao experimento à temperatura de 22 ± 1ºC, umidade relativa de 60 ± 5% e fotofase de 12 horas. Os resultados obtidos indicam que as categorias de injúria ocasionada por P. confinis foram dependentes da espécie de Senecio oferecida ao inseto, com maior consumo de S. brasiliensis. O estágio de desenvolvimento dos insetos influencia a preferência alimentar, uma vez que larvas neonatas apresentaram maior seletividade ao hospedeiro do que os adultos. Além de S. brasiliensis, os adultos podem colaborar no controle de outras espécies de Senecio, principalmente de S. madagascariensis, uma vez que há oviposição nessas plantas.

Feeding Preference of Larvae and Adults of Phaedon confinis Klug (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) for Senecio spp. (Asteraceae)

Abstract. One of the main causes of death in cattle is related to poisoning by plants of Senecio spp. (Asteraceae). Thus, alternatives for reduction of these plants in the Southern region of Brazil are necessary to diminish losses in livestock. Studies have demonstrated the chrysomelid Phaedon confinis Klug as a potential biological agent of Senecio brasiliensis Less. Our study aimed to evaluate the feeding preference of larvae and adults of P. confinis by the species S. brasiliensis, Senecio madagascariensis Poiret, Senecio oxyphyllus DC and Senecio selloi DC. Previously, the insects were fed on S. brasiliensis to the experiment at 22 ± 1oC temperature, 60 ± 5% relative humidity and 12h photophase. Results obtained indicate that injury caused by P. confinis depended on the species of Senecio offered to the insect, with higher consumption of S. brasiliensis. The developmental stage of the insect influences the feeding preference, since neonate larvae demonstrated higher selectivity to the plant host than adults. In addition to S. brasiliensis, adults can be used to control other species of Senecio, especially S. madagascariensis, since there is oviposition on these plants.
Physico-mechanical characterization and biodegradability behavior of polypropylene/poly(L-lactide) polymer blends
Authors: Jain Kimi , Madhu Gaurav , Bhunia Haripada , Bajpai Pramod K. , Nando Golok B. , Reddy Mondem S.
Published: December 2014

Partially biodegradable polymer films from the blends of polypropylene (PP) and poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) were prepared in an internal mixer by melt blending technique, with and without compatibilizer, maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP), followed by compression molding. With regard to tensile properties, 80/20 (PP/PLLA) and 80/20/6 (PP/PLLA/MAPP) were found as the optimum blends with best combination of the ingredients. Therefore, the blend samples, namely, PP80 (80% PP+20% PLLA) and PP80C6 (80% PP+20% PLLA+6 phr MAPP) were selected as ‘optimized’ blends and further characterized for their physical, chemical, morphological, and thermal properties. X-ray diffraction studies showed that neat PP and PP80C6 had the same crystallite size indicating compatibility between PP and PLLA due to MAPP. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microsopy investigations revealed that the two polymers were completely immiscible in absence of the compatibilizer. Bacterial biodegradation of the samples was performed by exposure to Pseudomonas stutzeri for 60 days and measured in terms of weight loss, optical density, and thermal stability of the samples before and after degradation. The results showed that 80/20 (PP/PLLA) blends undergo considerable degradation. Reduction in thermal stability of the film samples was also observed through thermogravimetric analysis, which was useful in accelerating their biodegradation.
Effect of chemical treatment on the mechanical and water absorption properties of bagasse fiber-reinforced epoxy composites
Authors: Mittal Varun , Sinha Shishir
Published: December 2014

The present article presents a study on the mechanical and water absorption properties of bagasse fiber-reinforced epoxy composites. Bagasse fibers are subjected to chemical treatment with 1% sodium hydroxide followed by 1% acrylic acid at ambient temperature to enhance the bonding strength between the fiber-polymer, resulting in high values of the mechanical properties and a reduction in the water absorption properties of the composites. We analyzed the optimum value of fiber treatment, and it was found that 15% treated fiber loading yields enhanced the mechanical properties together with a reduction in water absorption properties.
Effect of Bile Salt Hydrolase Inhibitors on a Bile Salt Hydrolase from Lactobacillus acidophilus
Authors: Lin Jun , Negga Rekek , Zeng Ximin , Smith Katie
Published: December 2014

Bile salt hydrolase (BSH), a widely distributed function of the gut microbiota, has a profound impact on host lipid metabolism and energy harvest. Recent studies suggest that BSH inhibitors are promising alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) for enhanced animal growth performance and food safety. Using a high-purity BSH from Lactobacillus salivarius strain, we have identified a panel of BSH inhibitors. However, it is still unknown if these inhibitors also effectively inhibit the function of the BSH enzymes from other bacterial species with different sequence and substrate spectrum. In this study, we performed bioinformatics analysis and determined the inhibitory effect of identified BSH inhibitors on a BSH from L. acidophilus. Although the L. acidophilus BSH is phylogenetically distant from the L. salivarius BSH, sequence analysis and structure modeling indicated the two BSH enzymes contain conserved, catalytically important amino residues and domain. His-tagged recombinant BSH from L. acidophilus was further purified and used to determine inhibitory effect of specific compounds. Previously identified BSH inhibitors also exhibited potent inhibitory effects on the L. acidophilus BSH. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the BSH from L. salivarius is an ideal candidate for screening BSH inhibitors, the promising alternatives to AGP for enhanced feed efficiency, growth performance and profitability of food animals.
Mind, Body and Spirit in Basket Divination: An Integrative Way of Knowing
Authors: Silva Sónia
Published: December 2014

The statements of researchers on the topic of basket divination and the statements of basket diviners in northwest Zambia, Africa, do not fully agree. While researchers rightly stress the importance of observation, analysis and interpretation in basket divination, going so far as to describe diviners as scientists, they fail to recognize that divination is not an abstract, disembodied undertaking. Truthful knowledge is not flushed out of the diviner’s mind as a set of theoretical propositions; it is instead delivered by an ancestral spirit that becomes objectified in three symbiotic forms: physical pain, configurations of material objects laid out inside a basket, and the diviner’s translation of those meaningful configurations into words. In basket divination, human bodies, artifacts, words, and spirits work together in symbiosis. Knowing is a spiritual, intellectual, and embodied undertaking. The challenge then is to conceptualize basket divination as an integrative way of knowing in such a way that one does not fail to recognize either the neurobiological substrate that we all share as humans or those others facets—such as the numen—without which basket divination as a cultural practice would cease to exist.
The Scottish Women’s Hospitals for Foreign Service – the Girton and Newnham Unit, 1915–1918
Authors: Morrison E , Parry C
Published: December 2014

The Scottish Women’s Hospitals for Foreign Service were established shortly after the outbreak of the First World War. Opportunities were limited for medical women prior to the war and during it they were unable to obtain a commission in the Royal Army Medical Corps, hence the formation of these voluntary all-women units. The Girton and Newnham Unit, under the leadership of Dr L McIlroy, served with distinction in France, Serbia and Greece, demonstrating clinical competence in the management of the emergency medical and surgical problems associated with warfare, areas usually off-limits to women doctors. They were severely tested but showed endurance and resilience in the running of their hospital in the most difficult of conditions.
Rapid establishment of the CO2 sink associated with Kerguelen's bloom observed during the KEOPS2/OISO20 cruise
Authors: Lo Monaco C. , Metzl N. , D'Ovidio F. , Llort J. , Ridame C.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Iron and light are the main factors limiting the biological pump of CO2 in the Southern Ocean. Iron fertilization experiments have demonstrated the potential for increased uptake of atmospheric CO2, but little is known about the evolution of fertilized environnements. This paper presents observations collected in one of the largest phytoplankton bloom of the Southern Ocean sustained by iron originating from the Kerguelen Plateau. We first complement previous studies by investigating the mechanisms that control air–sea CO2 fluxes over and downstream of the Kerguelen Plateau at the onset of the bloom based on measurements obtained in October–November 2011. These new observations show the rapid establishment of a strong CO2 sink in waters fertilized with iron as soon as vertical mixing is reduced. The magnitude of the CO2 sink was closely related to chlorophyll a and iron concentrations. Because iron concentration strongly depends on the distance from the iron source and the mode of delivery, we identified lateral advection as the main mechanism controlling air–sea CO2 fluxes downtream the Kerguelen Plateau during the growing season. In the southern part of the bloom, situated over the Plateau (iron source), the CO2 sink was stronger and spatially more homogeneous than in the plume offshore. However, we also witnessed a substantial reduction in the uptake of atmospheric CO2 over the Plateau following a strong winds event. Next, we used all the data available in this region in order to draw the seasonal evolution of air–sea CO2 fluxes. The CO2 sink is rapidly reduced during the course of the growing season, which we attribute to iron and silicic acid depletion. South of the Polar Front, where nutrients depletion is delayed, we suggest that the amplitude and duration of the CO2 sink is mainly controlled by vertical mixing. The impact of iron fertilization on air–sea CO2 fluxes is revealed by comparing the uptake of CO2 integrated over the productive season in the bloom, between 1 and 1.5 mol C m−2 yr−1, and in the iron-poor HNLC waters, where we found a typical value of 0.4 mol C m−2 yr−1. Extrapolating our results to the ice-free Southern Ocean (~50–60° S) suggests that iron fertilization of the whole area would increase the contemporay oceanic uptake of CO2 by less than 0.1 Pg C yr−1, i.e., less than 1% of the current anthropogenic CO2 emissions.
Patterns and Correlates of Public Health Informatics Capacity Among Local Health Departments
Authors: McCullough J. Mac , Goodin Kate
Published: December 2014

Objective: Little is known about the nationwide patterns in the use of public health informatics systems by local health departments (LHDs) and whether LHDs tend to possess informatics capacity across a broad range of information functionalities or for a narrower range. This study examined patterns and correlates of the presence of public health informatics functionalities within LHDs through the creation of a typology of LHD informatics capacities.Methods: Data was available for 459 LHDs from the 2013 National Association of County and City Health Officials Profile survey. An empirical typology was created through cluster analysis of six public health informatics functionalities: immunization registry, electronic disease registry, electronic lab reporting, electronic health records, health information exchange, electronic syndromic surveillance system. Three-categories of usage emerged (Low, Mid, High). LHD financial, workforce, organization, governance, and leadership characteristics, and types of services provided were explored across categories.Results: Low-informatics capacity LHDs had lower levels of use of each informatics functionalities than high-informatics capacity LHDs. Mid-informatics capacity LHDs had usage levels equivalent to high-capacity LHDs for the three most common functionalities and equivalent to low-capacity LHDs for the three least common functionalities. Informatics capacity was positively associated with service provision, especially for population-focused services.Conclusion: Informatics capacity is clustered within LHDs. Increasing LHD informatics capacity may require LHDs with low levels of informatics capacity to expand capacity across a range of functionalities, taking into account their narrower service portfolio. LHDs with mid-level informatics capacity may need specialized support in enhancing capacity for less common technologies.
EVALUATION OF THE ACTIVITY OF ESSENTIAL OIL ANTIFUNGAL Peumus boldus (MONIMIACEAE) FACING THE YEAST SPECIES Candida albicans
Authors: SANTOS Camila Zander , BOBEK Vanessa Barbosa , PIETRUCHINSKI Eduardo
Published: December 2014

Nas últimas décadas, inúmeros estudos vêm sendo realizados para conferir as plantas seu real valor e eficácia terapêutica. Os produtos oriundos de vegetais de uso medicinal com propriedades antifúngicas tornam-se uma nova alternativa no tratamento contra infecções fúngicas. A disponibilidade de antifúngicos atualmente utilizados na clínica é relativamente pequena, sendo algumas vezes ineficiente e com toxicidade elevada. O surgimento de resistência a determinadas drogas, reforça a demanda por novas alternativas terapêuticas. A busca por novos alvos, o entendimento dos mecanismos de virulência, bem como os de resistência microbiana são fundamentais diante do quadro atual. Neste contexto, o presente estudo visou avaliar “in vitro” a atividade antifúngica do óleo essencial de Peumus boldus sobre cepa da espécie Candida albicans. O óleo essencial foi obtido através da técnica de hidrodestilação. O ensaio antifúngico foi realizado pelo método de macrodiluição em tubos. O óleo apresentou atividade antifúngica inibindo o crescimento de Candida albicans em uma CIM de 0,25% v/v. Conclui-se assim que o óleo essencial de Peumus boldus possui boa atividade antifúngica, sendo eficaz na inibição do crescimento de leveduras da espécie Candida albicans.
BRAZIL NUT (Bertholletia excelsa Bonpl.): CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND ITS HEALTH BENEFITS.
Authors: BALBI Maria Eugenia , PENTEADO Patricia Teixeira P. da Silva , CARDOSO Guilherme , SOBRAL Marina Gomes , SOUZA Vanessa Rodrigues de
Published: December 2014

Foram analisadas sementes de castanhas-do-pará sem casca adquiridas a granel no comércio varejista de Curitiba. Os teores de umidade, lipídios e minerais foram determinados de acordo com a metodologia proposta pelo Instituto Adolfo Lutz. O teor de carboidratos foi obtido por diferença.  As quantidades de proteínas, fibra alimentar, selênio e aflatoxinas totais foram determinadas segundo metodologia da Association of Official Analytical Chemists. As determinações analíticas mostraram que 100g de sementes de castanha-do-pará contêm elevado valor calórico (691 kcal),  14,28g  ± 0,08 de proteínas, 67,52g ± 0,45 de lipídeos, 6,56g de carboidratos, 3,64g de fibra alimentar, 3,65g ± 0,03 de minerais e 0,425mg de selênio. O teor de aflatoxinas totais inferior a 1,00µg/kg indicou a segurança da amostra em relação a este metabólito tóxico. A ingestão diária recomendada de selênio é de 0,034mg; 7g da amostra de castanha-do-pará (2 unidades) correspondem a 87,65% das necessidades diárias
SIMULAÇÃO DO APROVEITAMENTO DA ENERGIA EÓLICA PARA IRRIGAÇÃO NO DISTRITO DE IRRIGADO BAIXO-ACARAÚ – CE
Authors: FEITOSA ERIALDO DE OLIVEIRA , ALBIERO DANIEL , PRACIANO ALINE CASTRO , MACEDO DEIVIELISON XIMENES SIQUEIRA , CHIODEROLI CARLOS ALESSANDRO
Published: December 2014

A geração de energia elétrica proveniente de sistemas eólicos surge como uma alternativa de grande potencial para a região Nordeste do Brasil, podendo promover o desenvolvimento econômico e social da região. Os sistemas de irrigação utilizados nos perímetros irrigados demandam quantidades significativas de energia, o que aumenta consideravelmente o custo de produção final. O trabalho objetivou a simulação da geração de energia elétrica provinda da fonte eólica como alternativa energética para o perímetro irrigado do Baixo-Acaraú, CE. Para tal foi utilizado o software EOLUSOFT – Versão Beta 1.0 NUTEMA-PUCRS desenvolvido na PUC do Rio Grande do Sul, pelo Núcleo Tecnológico de Energia e Meio Ambiente, e no bombeamento de água foi considerada uma bomba d água de 5 cv com capacidade para bombear 10.800 l/h. Como resultado da simulação o sistema eólico apresentou-se possível de atender as necessidades de alimentação elétrica rural no perímetro irrigado com as condições de velocidade de vento analisados para o local, sendo capaz de fornecer o abastecimento de água para a irrigação.
Some observations regarding the thermal flux from Earth's erupting volcanoes for the period of 2000 to 2014
Authors: Wright Robert , Blackett Matthew , Hill‐Butler Charley
Published: December 2014

We present satellite measurements of the thermal flux observed from 95 active volcanoes, based on observations made daily over the past 15 years by NASA's Terra and Aqua Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer sensors. Excursions from an apparent baseline level of thermal emission are attributable to episodic lava‐flow‐forming eruptions. Highest average intensity was associated with the July 2001 eruption of Etna, Italy, which radiated an average of 2.5 × 109 W over 23 days. However, recent fissure eruptions in the Afar Rift have attained higher average intensities of 2.4–4.4 × 109 W, albeit for days, not weeks. The largest magnitude eruption was the ongoing eruption of Bardarbunga, Iceland, which radiated 2.6 × 1016 J. Kīlauea, Hawai'i, has radiated the most energy since 2000, although the lava lake at Nyiragongo, Democratic Republic of Congo, comes a close second. Time series analysis reveals evidence for periodicity in radiant flux at some volcanoes but not at others.
Functional Materials from Cellulose‐Derived Liquid‐Crystal Templates
Authors: Giese Michael , Blusch Lina K. , Khan Mostofa K. , MacLachlan Mark J.
Published: December 2014

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), known for more than 50 years, have attracted attention because of their unique properties such as high specific strength and modulus, high surface area, and fascinating optical properties. Just recently, however, their potential in supramolecular templating was identified by making use of their self‐assembly behavior in aqueous dispersions in the presence of compatible precursors. The combination of the mesoporosity, photonic properties, and chiral nematic order of the materials, which are available as freestanding films, has led to a significant number of interesting and promising discoveries towards new functional materials. This Review summarizes the use of cellulose derivatives, especially CNCs, as novel templates and gives an overview of the recent developments toward new functional materials.
Supportive Social Contexts and Intentions for Civic and Political Participation: An Application of the Theory of Planned Behaviour
Authors: Pavlova Maria K. , Silbereisen Rainer K.
Published: December 2014

We investigated how general social support from family, friends and acquaintances, and community predicted intentions for civic (e.g. volunteering) and political (e.g. petitioning) participation via the constructs specified in the theory of planned behaviour. Participants were young adults living in the former East Germany, a post‐communist region, who were surveyed by telephone in 2010 (Ncivic = 695, Npolitical = 694). Civic participation was perceived more favourably than political participation. Supportive family predicted intentions for civic participation; supportive community services predicted both types of intentions; and supportive friends and acquaintances had no significant effects. The mediating variables were subjective norms and perceived behavioural control, but not attitudes. All effects were controlled for sociodemographic variables, richness of the social network, and past experience of civic and political participation. Findings underscore the role of supportive community in fostering both civic and political participation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cone bipolar cells in the retina of the microbat Carollia perspicillata
Authors: Butz Elisabeth , Peichl Leo , Müller Brigitte
Published: December 2014

We studied the retinal cone bipolar cells of Carollia perspicillata, a microchiropteran bat of the phyllostomid family. Microchiroptera are strongly nocturnal, with small eyes and rod‐dominated retinae. However, they also possess a significant cone population (2–4%) comprising two spectral types, which are hence the basis for daylight and color vision. We used antibodies against the calcium‐binding protein recoverin and the carbohydrate epitope 15 (CD15) as reliable markers for certain cone bipolar cells. Dye injections of recoverin‐ or CD15‐prelabeled cone bipolar cells in vertical slices revealed the morphology of the axon terminal system of individual bipolar cells. Seven distinct cone bipolar cell types were identified. They differed in the morphology and stratification level of their axon terminal system in the inner plexiform layer and in immunoreactivity for recoverin and/or CD15. Additional immunocytochemical markers were used to assess the functional ON/OFF subdivision of the inner plexiform layer. In line with the extended thickness of the ON sublayer of the inner plexiform layer in the microbat retina, more ON than OFF cone bipolar cell types were found, namely, four versus three. Most likely, in the bats' predominantly dark environment, ON signals have greater importance for contrast perception. We conclude that the microbat retina conforms to the general mammalian blueprint, in which light signals of intensities above rod sensitivity are detected by cones and transmitted to various types of ON and OFF cone bipolar cells. J. Comp. Neurol. 523:963–981, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Silver‐Assisted Chemical Etching on Silicon with Polyvinylpyrrolidone‐Mediated Formation of Silver Dendrites
Authors: Chen Chia‐Yun , Hsiao Po‐Hsuan
Published: December 2014

Metal‐assisted chemical etching (MaCE) on silicon (Si)—mediated by polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)—is systematically investigated herein. It is found that the morphologies and crystallographic natures of the grown silver (Ag) dendrites can be significantly modulated, with the presence of PVP in the MaCE process leading to the formation of faceted Ag dendrites preferentially along the (111) crystallographic phase, rather than along the (200) phase. Further explorations of the PVP‐mediated effect on Si etching are also revealed. In contrast to the aligned Si nanowires formed by MaCE without PVP addition, only distributed nanopores with sizes of 200 to 400 nm appear on the Si surfaces in the presence of PVP. The origin of surface polishing on Si in the PVP‐mediated MaCE process can be attributed to the distinct transport pathway of holes supplied by the Ag+ ions, where the holes are injected directly into the primary Ag seeds, rather than through Ag dendrites, thus leading to the isotropic etching of the Si surface.
Blood diagnostics using sedimentation to extract plasma on a fully integrated point‐of‐care microfluidic system
Authors: Samborski Adam , Jankowski Paweł , Węgrzyn Judyta , Michalski Jacek A. , Pawłowska Sylwia , Jakieła Sławomir , Garstecki Piotr
Published: December 2014

Blood is the richest source of diagnostic information. The growing interest in point‐of‐care analytics prompted several attempts to extract plasma from whole blood in simple diagnostic devices. The simplest method of separation is sedimentation. Here we show the first microfluidic system that uses sedimentation to extract plasma from undiluted blood and integrates execution of liquid assays on the extracted material. We present a microfluidic chip that accepts a small sample (27 μL) of whole blood, separates up to 6 μL of plasma, and uses metered volumes of plasma and of reagent (2‐chloro‐4‐nitrophenyl‐α‐maltotrioside, CNP‐G3) for a liquid enzymatic assay. With a custom designed channel, the system separates blood by sedimentation within few minutes of accepting the sample, mixes it with the reagent, and quantifies spectrophotometrically the product of the enzymatic reaction. As a model demonstration, we show a quantitative enzymatic α‐amylase assay that is routinely used in diagnosis of pancreas diseases. The paper reports the design and characterization of the microfluidic device and the results of tests on clinically collected blood samples. The results obtained with the microfluidic system compare well to a reference bench‐top analyzer.
Changing epistemologies under conditions of social change in two Arab communities in Israel
Authors: Weinstock Michael
Published: December 2014

The study of epistemic thinking focuses on how people understand and coordinate objective and subjective aspects of knowing and make sense of multiple and discrepant knowledge claims. Typically described in terms of normative development, cross‐cultural studies show differences in epistemic development and characteristics of epistemic thinking. This study focuses on within‐culture variations of epistemic thinking, with the assumption that social change will produce changes in development. Arab society in Israel has undergone notable change over the last half century. In this cross‐sectional research design, cross‐generational comparison and rural–urban comparison were used as proxies for longitudinal social change. Three generations of Muslim Arab women in a village in Israel (20 adolescents, 20 mothers and 20 grandmothers) and 20 Muslim Arab adolescents from a large, mixed city in the same region responded to six dilemmas invoking epistemic thinking. Village adolescents were more subjectivist than their mothers and grandmothers. Sociodemographic characteristics representing greater exposure to diverse people and ideas accounted for generational differences. Both urban and rural adolescents tended towards subjectivist perspectives, and they did not differ. Parents' education levels emerged as the sociodemographic variables most consistently related to epistemic thinking. Epistemic thinking mediated the relationship between generation and gender role/cross‐sex relation values.
Environmental Impacts of Contrasted Groundwater Pumping Systems Assessed by Life Cycle Assessment Methodology: Contribution to the Water–Energy Nexus Study
Authors: Pradeleix Ludivine , Roux Philippe , Bouarfa Sami , Jaouani Bochra , Lili‐Chabaane Zohra , Bellon‐Maurel Veronique
Published: December 2014

Most studies on the environmental performance of irrigation have focused on the water–food–energy nexus, i.e. relationships between food production, water consumption and energy. However, water and energy are not the only relevant indicators of the environmental performance of irrigation systems. Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a holistic method that is well suited to comprehensive assessment. This paper aims at using LCA to assess the environmental impacts of contrasted groundwater pumping systems in semi‐arid central Tunisia.

In line with previous studies, our results confirm that for groundwater pumping, energy has the highest environmental impacts on human health, the ecosystem and resource depletion. Our work also highlights that along with pump efficiency, the type of power source must be considered when ranking pumping systems based on environmental performance.

Indeed, diesel‐powered pumping systems are more harmful than electric pumps when electricity is generated from natural gas and diesel‐powered pump efficiency is low. However, the diesel pumping system becomes the best option when electricity is derived from coal and diesel‐powered pump efficiency exceeds 12%.

Finally, water depletion has been shown of great importance in this study, and ongoing LCA improvements should facilitate a more comprehensive picture of these site‐specific impacts. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Shape‐Memory Polymer Networks Prepared from Star‐Shaped Poly[(L‐lactide)‐co‐glycolide] Precursors
Authors: Kusmierczuk Maciej , Nöchel Ulrich , Baudis Stefan , Behl Marc , Kratz Karl , Lendlein Andreas
Published: December 2014

Amorphous degradable copolymer networks such as poly[(L‐lactide)‐co‐glycolide] (PLGA) are promising multifunctional polymers with tailorable degradation profiles and capable of a thermally‐induced shape‐memory effect. Currently, the shape‐memory performance for covalently crosslinked networks based on linear PLGA dimethacrylate precursors (cPLGA) is limited. In this study we explored the shape‐memory properties of cPLGA networks prepared from three‐armed 2‐isocyanatoethyl methacrylate functionalized precursors via photopolymerization. cPLGA exhibited excellent dual‐shape properties characterized by an almost complete fixation of the temporary shape as well as an almost perfect recovery of the original shape. In the dry state cPLGA exhibited a switching temperature (Tsw) of 60 °C with a narrow recovery temperature interval of ΔTrec = 5 °C, while a significant lower Tsw of 40 °C with a ΔTrec = 15 °C was obtained when the polymer network was investigated in an aqueous environment. A concomitant decrease in the glass transition temperature could be observed in differential scanning calorimetry heating curves for copolymer networks after storage in aqueous buffer solution at 37 °C for 7 days, which can be attributed to the up‐take of water molecules (1.5 wt%). The shape‐memory properties achieved for cPLGA, in particular the shape recovery ratio and ΔTrec were superior to those of analogous polymer networks based on linear PLGA dimethacrylates.
Beyond the “Babel Problem”: Defining Simulations for the Social Studies
Authors: Wright-Maley Cory
Published: December 2014

Simulation research has become a growing area of interest in the social studies in recent years. Problematically, the term simulation is used without consistency among practitioners and researchers. The conceptual confusion regarding what simulations are (or are not) muddies the field and makes it difficult for scholars to make sense of this phenomenon or to talk about simulations across findings. In order to bring clarity to the field, this paper is framed around two conceptual and analytic constructs: conceptual analysis and the theory of language games. In this paper, I will provide a rationale for why the social studies field requires a specific definition for simulations. Next, simulations will be defined using four specific criteria: verisimilitude, dynamism, active human agents, and pedagogical mediation. Finally, simulations will be differentiated from three related phenomena with which they are often conflated: games, role-plays, and models.
Marine biological invasions in the Liman ‘Zmeinoe Ozero’ (Snake Lake) ecosystem, the north-eastern Black Sea
Authors: Selifonova Zh.P.
Published: December 2014

Taxonomic composition and seasonal dynamics of density of phytoplankton, heterotrophic bacteria, ciliates, holoplankton, meroplankton and zoobenthos of mud bottom sediments were studied in 2010–2011 in the Liman ‘Zmeinoe Ozero’. Twelve non-native species of fauna were recorded, that penetrated into the Liman with ships' ballast water (established species – 6, cryptogenic species – 2, casual species – 4). The basic ‘groups of risk’ of invasions are tintinnids infusorians, neritic species of copepods and spionid polychaetes. The attempt to define the degree of vulnerability of the recipient ecosystem to biological invasions is made on the basis of an energy balance method. The prognosis of biological pollution of the north-eastern Black Sea by ships' ballast waters was executed.