bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paradigmas e tendências do ensino universitário: a metodologia da pesquisa-ação como estratégia de formação docente
Authors: Mendonça Erica Toledo de , Cotta Rosângela Minardi Mitre , Lelis Vicente de Paula , Carvalho Junior Paulo Marcondes
Published: April 2015

O objetivo do trabalho foi discutir sobre os paradigmas e as tendências do ensino universitário na atualidade, apontando estratégias de formação docente. Utilizou-se como método a pesquisa-ação; os dados foram coletados mediante as técnicas do Panorama Sobe e Desce, Wordle e Diários de Classe, durante a realização de capacitações docentes para exercício de tutoria em disciplina semipresencial. Os depoimentos dos participantes apontaram para uma insatisfação no uso do modelo tradicional de ensino; a importância de o professor estar aberto ao novo; e, ainda, que a utilização de processos inovadores de ensinagem foi considerada importante estratégia de mudança de paradigma educacional. O processo de capacitação de docentes universitários mostrou-se eficaz no que tange à conscientização destes indivíduos quanto à importância de se inserir o ensino na agenda das prioridades da universidade.
Residência Multiprofissional em Saúde da Família: concepção de profissionais de saúde sobre a atuação do nutricionista
Authors: Santos Irani Gomes dos , Batista Nildo Alves , Devincenzi Macarena Urrestarazu
Published: April 2015

A Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF) é o local para desenvolvimento das Residências Multiprofissionais em Saúde da Família, que primam pela formação e produção de tecnologias do cuidado, qualificando o Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). Nesse cenário, o nutricionista promove ações de alimentação e nutrição voltadas para o perfil epidemiológico local. O objetivo do trabalho foi mostrar concepções de profissionais de saúde em relação à atuação do nutricionista na ESF após sua inserção em residência. Participaram 13 profissionais. Trata-se de estudo exploratório, descritivo, analítico, corte tipo transversal, tendo como técnica de coleta de dados a entrevista semiestruturada e a análise de conteúdo. Evidenciou-se que a pequena inserção de nutricionistas nesta estratégia contribuiu para uma compreensão pouco clara de sua atuação. Porém, sua especificidade foi valorizada considerando seu olhar diferenciado para situações voltadas para a Nutrição, fazendo ampliar possibilidades de cenários de atuação, sobretudo dirigidas à promoção e prevenção.
Encontro Arte, Saúde e Cultura: compartilhando saberes e experiências em interface
Authors: Lopes Isabel Cristina , Valent Isabela Umbuzeiro , Buelau Renata Monteiro
Published: April 2015

Esta composição visa registrar e divulgar o I Encontro Arte, Saúde e Cultura: construindo uma política pública de interface, por meio da publicação da fala de abertura, juntamente com fotos que apresentam alguns recortes das participações e apresentações que ocorreram ao longo deste acontecimento. O Encontro foi organizado pelo Grupo de Trabalho Arte, Saúde e Cultura, constituído por: representantes das Secretarias de Saúde e Cultura do Município de São Paulo, trabalhadores da rede de saúde e cultura, sociedade civil organizada e comunidade acadêmica.
A Psicologia na Estratégia de Saúde da Família: Vivências da Residência Multiprofissional
Authors: Cezar Pâmela Kurtz , Rodrigues Patrícia Matte , Arpini Dorian Mônica
Published: April 2015

Este trabalho é um relato de experiência e tem por objetivo apresentar o processo de inserção da Psicologia em serviços de Estratégia de Saúde da Família numa cidade do interior do Rio Grande do Sul por meio das atividades do Programa de Residência Multiprofissional. Observou-se, durante essa vivência, que tanto os profissionais das equipes de Saúde da Família como os usuários do serviço tinham a expectativa de que a Psicologia desenvolvesse preferencialmente ações clínicas individuais. Entretanto, também foram desenvolvidas ações de maneira interdisciplinar e intersetorial, com intervenções de promoção, prevenção e educação em saúde, além de ações de articulação ensino-serviço e de articulação com serviços da rede de saúde e saúde mental do município e de participação em espaços coletivos, como Conselho Municipal de Saúde e Comissão de Saúde Mental. Conclui-se, desse modo, que, embora a Psicologia tenha ampliado suas possibilidades de atuação na área da saúde pública, ainda permanecem desafios no âmbito da atenção básica à saúde, em especial no que se refere à necessidade de superação do modelo tradicional de atuação do psicólogo, por meio de um trabalho mais compartilhado com outros profissionais da saúde.
Psicoterapia para Crianças e Adolescentes Vítimas de Violência Sexual no Sistema Público: Panorama e Alternativas de Atendimento
Authors: Hohendorff Jean Von , Habigzang Luísa Fernanda , Koller Silvia Helena
Published: April 2015

O objetivo deste ensaio é abordar a questão da garantia de acesso ao tratamento psicoterápico de crianças e adolescentes vítimas de violência sexual pelo sistema público, tendo em vista que o desenvolvimento de psicopatologias em curto e em longo prazo está associado à experiência de violência sexual. As principais leis e diretrizes sobre a organização dos serviços públicos de assistência social e de saúde para vítimas de violência sexual foram revisadas, bem como estudos sobre os encaminhamentos adotados nesses casos. Constatou-se que o serviço público de assistência deve oferecer atendimento psicossocial, enquanto o serviço público de saúde deve oferecer psicoterapia. No entanto, os estudos sobre encaminhamentos de casos de violência sexual contra crianças e adolescentes indicam baixos índices de encaminhamento para serviços que oferecem psicoterapia. Tal panorama é discutido a partir das diretrizes quanto ao público atendido pelo serviço público de saúde no que tange à saúde mental, bem como a partir da quantidade desses serviços em nosso país. Alternativas para a garantia de acesso ao tratamento psicoterápico de crianças e adolescentes vítimas de violência sexual pelo sistema público de saúde são discutidas.
Orientação Psicológica On-line: Percepção dos Profissionais sobre a Relação com os Clientes
Authors: Siegmund Gerson , Lisboa Carolina
Published: April 2015

Os atendimentos psicológicos pela internet são uma prática recente, que vem recebendo crescente atenção de profissionais e pesquisadores. Há poucos estudos sobre o tema no Brasil, sendo necessário investigá-lo e compreendê-lo. A resolução 012/2005 do Conselho Federal de Psicologia regulamenta os serviços psicológicos mediados por computador, entre os quais destaca-se a orientação psicológica on-line. O presente estudo, de delineamento qualitativo e exploratório, teve por objetivo investigar a percepção dos profissionais acerca da orientação psicológica on-line, com foco na relação estabelecida com os clientes. Participaram da pesquisa quatro profissionais, homens e mulheres, com diferentes idades, práticas e tempo de atuação profissional. Para coleta dos dados foram utilizadas entrevistas on-line individuais semiestruturadas. Os participantes foram selecionados a partir de sites de atendimento on-line regulamentados pelo CFP. A análise dos dados foi feita através da análise de conteúdo de Bardin. Em relação aos resultados, foi possível perceber que essa prática possui limites e potencialidades. Conclui-se que o vínculo estabelecido nessa relação é diferenciado, mas possibilita a realização dos objetivos do atendimento e o acolhimento do cliente. Os atendimentos pela internet constituem uma prática nova, que necessita ser estudada, a fim de gerar maior entendimento e esclarecimento na área, para profissionais e clientes.
Significados Atribuídos por Mães Acerca do Acolhimento Institucional, Reintegração e Rede de Atendimento
Authors: Rocha Patricia Jovasque , Arpini Dorian Mônica , Savegnago Sabrina Dal Ongaro
Published: April 2015

Esta pesquisa objetivou conhecer, através de entrevistas, a experiência de mães de crianças e adolescentes reintegrados acerca do trabalho realizado pela rede de atendimento durante a aplicação da medida de proteção e a reintegração. Os dados foram analisados através da Análise de Conteúdo. Os resultados indicam que tanto as mães quanto as crianças e adolescentes receberam atendimento das equipes técnicas (psicólogas e assistentes sociais) da instituição de acolhimento bem como de outros profissionais da rede durante a aplicação da medida e após a reinserção. Foi possível perceber que as famílias fizeram uma avaliação positiva dos atendimentos recebidos, reconhecendo a importância dos mesmos para o processo de reintegração familiar. Os resultados indicam ainda que os participantes reconhecem mudanças na realidade do acolhimento institucional a partir da lei n. 12.010, em especial a proximidade família/instituição. As considerações finais sugerem a realização de novos estudos que contemplem as especificidades da realidade brasileira, sem, contudo, perder de vista os parâmetros nacionais.
‘Abstract from Geology at the Western Front’ by T. W. Edgeworth David
Authors: Rose Edward P. F.
Published: April 2015

The central text of this paper has been transcribed directly from the handwritten, unpublished ‘Abstract of Notes' by Tannatt William Edgeworth David (1858–1934), an Australian geologist of great distinction, from which he lectured at the Geological Society of London on 26 February 1919. He was then en route home to Australia after serving on the Western Front, across parts of Belgium and northern France, in the First World War—as the senior of two geologists at General Headquarters, British Expeditionary Force. His text provides the first overall account of military applications of geology on a battlefield by any geologist to serve as such in action with British troops. An introduction, illustrations, references, footnotes and concluding discussion have been added by E. P. F. Rose to amplify (and slightly amend) David's hastily-compiled personal record.
Disturbance interactions: characterization, prediction, and the potential for cascading effects
Authors: Buma B.
Published: April 2015

Disturbances are fundamental components of ecosystems and, in many cases, a dominant driver of ecosystem structure and function at multiple spatial and temporal scales. While the effect of any one disturbance may be relatively well understood, multiple interacting disturbances can cause unexpected disturbance behavior (e.g., larger extents), altered return likelihoods, or reduced ecosystem resilience and regime shifts. Given the long‐lasting implications of such events, and the potential for changes in disturbance rates driven by climate change and increasing anthropogenic pressures, developing a broad conceptual understanding and some predictive ability regarding the likelihood of interactions between disturbances is crucial. Through a broad synthesis of the literature, and across multiple biomes, disturbance interactions are placed into a unified framework around the concept of changing ecosystem resistance (“linked interactions,” alterations to likelihood, extent, or severity) or ecosystem resilience (“compound interactions,” alterations to recovery time or trajectory). Understanding and predicting disturbance interactions requires disaggregating disturbances into their constituent legacies, identifying the mechanisms which drive disturbances behavior (or ecosystem recovery), and determining when and where those mechanisms might be altered by the legacies of prior disturbances. The potential for cascading effects is discussed, by which these interactions may extend the reach of anthropogenic or climate change‐induced alterations to disturbances beyond what is currently anticipated. Finally, several avenues for future research are outlined, as suggested from the current literature (and areas in which that literature is lacking). These include the potential for cross‐scale interactions and changing scale‐driven limitations, further work on cascading effects, and the potential for cross‐biome comparisons. Disturbance interactions have the potential to cause large, nonlinear, or unexpected changes in ecosystem structure and functioning; finding generality across these complex events is an important step in predicting their occurrence and understanding their significance.
Building Scheme for an Ecological Slope Protection System of Three Gorges Reservoir Bank
Authors: Yuan-Chen Guo , Xue Wang , Xiang Chen , Ming Zhu
Published: April 2015

Building an ecological slope protection system in the drawdown area of Three Gorges reservoir bank is imperative.
Multiple anti-slide bearings were fixed on the riverside slope of the fluctuating zone of the reservoir area, and antioverturning
boards were fixed on the bearings. All the anti-slide bearings, which were placed in the same height position
in the transverse direction of the riverside slope, were connected by steel bars to form the backbone slip in the longitudinal
direction. Two neighboring backbone slips in the transverse direction formed a groove. In the grooves, fill layer, water
layer, fermented silt filling, and soil layer were paved sequentially from bottom to top. The results show that the slope
protection system effectively manages the sludge, wastewater, and fluctuating zone treatments as one body; reduces energy
consumption; saves energy; and benefits the environment.
Characteristics and synergistic effects of co-pyrolysis of yinning coal and poplar sawdust
Authors: Zhu Shenghua , Bai Yonghui , Yan Lunjing , Hao Qiaoling , Li Fan
Published: April 2015

Co-process of biomass and coal is perceived as a way to enhance the energy
utilization by virtue of the integrated and interactive effects between
different types of carbonaceous fuels. The purpose of this study was to
investigate the co-pyrolysis characteristics of Yining coal and poplar
sawdust, and to determine whether there is any synergistic effect in
pyrolytic product yields. The coal was blended with sawdust at a mass
fraction of 9:1, 7:3, 5:5, 3:7 and 1:9 respectively. The change of char
yields, maximum weight loss rate and the corresponding temperature of
different coal/sawdust blends during pyrolysis were compared by
thermogravimetric analysis (TG). The total tar yields during separate coal,
sawdust as well as their blends pyrolysis were acquired from the low
temperature aluminum retort distillation test. By compare the experimental
and theoretical value of the char yields from TG and tar yields from
carbonization test, it was observed that co-pyrolysis of coal/sawdust blends
produced less char and tar than the total amount produced by separate coal
and sawdust pyrolysis. The different product distribution suggested that
there was synergy effect in gas product yields. The co-pyrolysis of
demineralized and devolatilized sawdust with coal indicated that the ash in
the sawdust was the main contributor to the synergistic effect.
L’επιτροποσ - un exécuteur testamentaire
Authors: Matovic Tamara
Published: April 2015

Our intention is to analyze the legal institution of testamentary executor,
which appears in various legal systems in Europe, at the beginning of the
Middle Ages. What is the main significance of this institution in the will,
we will try to answer exploring the private and public sources. Also, as a
part of research, we will draw attention to the similar legal institutions.
Clinical Practice Guideline on Diagnosis and Treatment of Hyponatraemia
Authors: Spasovski Goce , Vanholder Raymond , Allolio Bruno , Annane Djillali , Ball Steve , Bichet Daniel , Decaux Guy , Fenske Wiebke , Hoorn Ewout , Ichai Carole , Joannidis Michael , Soupart Alain , Zietse Robert , Haller Maria , Nagler Evi , Van Biesen Wim , van der Veer Sabine
Published: April 2015

Hyponatraemia, defined as a serum sodium concentration <135 mmol/l, is the most common disorder of body fuid and electrolyte balance encountered in clinical practice. It can lead to a wide spectrum of clinical symptoms, from subtle to severe or even life threatening, and is associated with increased mortality, morbidity and length of hospital stay in patients presenting with a range of conditions. Despite this, the management of patients remains problematic. The prevalence of hyponatraemia in widely different conditions and the fact that hyponatraemia is managed by clinicians with a broad variety of backgrounds have fostered diverse institution-and speciality-based approaches to diagnosis and treatment. To obtain a common and holistic view, the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine (ESICM), the European Society of Endocrinology (ESE) and the European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association (ERA-EDTA), represented by European Renal Best Practice (ERBP), have developed the Clinical Practice Guideline on the diagnostic approach and treatment of hyponatraemia as a joint venture of three societies representing specialists with a natural interest in hyponatraemia. In addition to a rigorous approach to methodology and evaluation, we were keen to ensure that the document focused on patient-important outcomes and included utility for clinicians involved in everyday practice.
Evaluation of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in diagnosis of papulo-nodular skin lesion
Authors: Siddiqua Ayesha , Akhtar Nargis , Khondaker Lubna , Islam Md Aminul , Rahaman Md Mahabubur , Babar Zahir Uddin Muhammad , Imdad Tawhidul Islam , Alam Mohd Nurul , Khan Mesbahuddin
Published: April 2015

Objective : The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) in diagnosis of Papulonodular skin disease.Methodology : This prospective study was carried out in Bangabandhu Sheik Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) in the department of Dermatology and Veneral disease and department of Pathology. Study period was March 2012 to August 2012 (six months). Thirty (30) patients with papulonodular skin lesion for more than 6 weeks were enrolled. Data were collected and analysis was done by using SPSS.Results : Among 30 patients, 14 cases which were histopathologically diagnosed as epidermal inclusion cyst, pilar cyst, lipoma were also diagnosed positive by FNAC and accuracy were 100%. Rest 16 cases which were histopathologically positive as lupus vulgaris, prurigo nodularies,post kala-a zar dermal leishmaniasis, erythema nodosum, mycosis fungoides were diagnosed negative by FNAC . Overall accuracy of FNAC was only 46.7%.Conclusions : FNAC has significant limitation for diagnosis of papulonodular skin disease and not a good alternative to histopathology in diagnosis of papulonodular skin disease.Northern International Medical College Journal Vol.5(2) 2014: 342-344
Evaluation of Single or Double Hurdle Sanitizer Applications in Simulated Field or Packing Shed Operations for Cantaloupes Contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Webb Cathy , Erickson Marilyn , Davey Lindsey , Doyle Michael
Published: April 2015

Listeria monocytogenes contamination of cantaloupes has become a serious concern as contaminated cantaloupes led to a deadly outbreak in the United States in 2011. To reduce cross-contamination between cantaloupes and to reduce resident populations on contaminated melons, application of sanitizers in packing shed wash water is recommended. The sanitizing agent of 5% levulinic acid and 2% sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) applied as a single hurdle in either a simulated dump or dip treatment significantly reduced L. monocytogenes to lower levels at the stem scar compared to a simulated dump treatment employing 200 ppm chlorine; however pathogen reductions on the rind tissue were not significantly different. Double hurdle approaches employing two sequential packing plant treatments with different sanitizers revealed decreased reduction of L. monocytogenes at the stem scar. In contrast, application of sanitizers both in the field and at the packing plant led to greater L. monocytogenes population reductions than if sanitizers were only applied at the packing plant.
Fully Relativistic Electron Impact Excitation Cross-Section and Polarization for Tungsten Ions
Authors: Priti  , Dipti  , Sharma Lalita , Srivastava Rajesh
Published: April 2015

Electron impact excitation of highly charged tungsten ions in the framework of a fully relativistic distorted wave approach is considered in this paper. Calculations of electron impact excitation cross-sections for the M- and L-shell transitions in the tungsten ions Wn+ (n = 44–66) and polarization of the decay of photons from the excited tungsten ions are briefly reviewed and discussed. New calculations in the wide range of incident electron energies are presented for M-shell transitions in the K-like through Ne-like tungsten ions.
Application of a Central Composite Design for the Study of NOx Emission Performance of a Low NOx Burner
Authors: Dutka Marcin , Ditaranto Mario , Løvås Terese
Published: April 2015

In this study, the influence of various factors on nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions of a low NOx burner is investigated using a central composite design (CCD) approach to an experimental matrix in order to show the applicability of design of experiments methodology to the combustion field. Four factors have been analyzed in terms of their impact on NOx formation: hydrogen fraction in the fuel (0%–15% mass fraction in hydrogen-enriched methane), amount of excess air (5%–30%), burner head position (20–25 mm from the burner throat) and secondary fuel fraction provided to the burner (0%–6%). The measurements were performed at a constant thermal load equal to 25 kW (calculated based on lower heating value). Response surface methodology and CCD were used to develop a second-degree polynomial regression model of the burner NOx emissions. The significance of the tested factors over their respective ranges has been evaluated using the analysis of variance and by the consideration of the coefficients of the model equation. Results show that hydrogen addition to methane leads to increased NOx emissions in comparison to emissions from pure methane combustion. Hydrogen content in a fuel is the strongest factor affecting NOx emissions among all the factors tested. Lower NOx formation because of increased excess air was observed when the burner was fuelled by pure methane, but this effect diminished for hydrogen-rich fuel mixtures. NOx emissions were slightly reduced when the burner head was shifted closer to the burner outer tube, whereas a secondary fuel stream provided to the burner was found to have no impact on NOx emissions over the investigated range of factors.
Optimal Energy Management Strategy of a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Based on a Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Chen Zeyu , Xiong Rui , Wang Kunyu , Jiao Bin
Published: April 2015

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) have been recognized as one of the most promising vehicle categories nowadays due to their low fuel consumption and reduced emissions. Energy management is critical for improving the performance of PHEVs. This paper proposes an energy management approach based on a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The optimization objective is to minimize total energy cost (summation of oil and electricity) from vehicle utilization. A main drawback of optimal strategies is that they can hardly be used in real-time control. In order to solve this problem, a rule-based strategy containing three operation modes is proposed first, and then the PSO algorithm is implemented on four threshold values in the presented rule-based strategy. The proposed strategy has been verified by the US06 driving cycle under the MATLAB/Simulink software environment. Two different driving cycles are adopted to evaluate the generalization ability of the proposed strategy. Simulation results indicate that the proposed PSO-based energy management method can achieve better energy efficiency compared with traditional blended strategies. Online control performance of the proposed approach has been demonstrated through a driver-in-the-loop real-time experiment.
Applying Effective Population Size Estimates of Kandelia obovata Sheue, Liu and Yong to Conservation and Restoration Management
Authors: Huang Bing-Hong , Ruan Yu , Li Jun-Qing , Liao Pei-Chun
Published: April 2015

Effective population size (Ne) is a crucial metric for evaluating the current status of genetic diversity and conservation management. Population of Kandelia obovata, a mangrove species that is patchily distributed along the estuaries off Southeastern China, is genetically structured. Here, we applied skyline analyses to infer the demographic history of K. obovata based on Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphisms (AFLP) data. Congruent trends of population growth rate among populations, but concurrent change in Ne estimates, were inferred in all populations. The recent rapid habitat expansion explains the high census population size but small Ne of populations in Northern Taiwan. Our study also revealed lower Ne of reforested populations than their sources. In silico demographic analyses simulate the small or biased sampling of seedlings for reforestation and revealed over 90% and 99% Ne reduction when only 1/2 and 1/10 samples were collected, respectively. These results emphasize the importance of a comprehensive sampling of seeds for restoration. Overall, this study rendered, not only the current Ne of K. obovata populations, but also indicates the importance of Ne estimation on restoration.
Association between Fine Particulate Air Pollution and Daily Clinic Visits for Migraine in a Subtropical City: Taipei, Taiwan
Authors: Chen Chih-Cheng , Tsai Shang-Shyue , Yang Chun-Yuh
Published: April 2015

This study was undertaken to determine whether there was an association between fine particle (PM2.5) levels and daily clinic visits for migraine in Taipei, Taiwan. Daily clinic visits for migraine and ambient air pollution data for Taipei were obtained for the period from 2006–2011. The odds ratio of clinic visits was estimated using a case-crossover approach, controlling for weather variables, day of the week, seasonality, and long-term time trends. Generally, no significant associations between PM2.5 levels and migraine visits were observed on cool days. On warm days, however, for the single pollutant model (without adjustment for other pollutants), increased clinic visits for migraine were significantly associated with PM2.5 levels, with an interquartile range (IQR) rise associated with a 13% (95% CI = 8%–19%) elevation in number of migraine visits. In bi-pollutant model, PM2.5 remained significant after the inclusion of sulfur dioxide (SO2) or ozone (O3) on warm days. This study provides evidence that higher levels of PM2.5 increase the risk of clinic visits for migraine in Taipei, Taiwan.
In Vivo Molecular MRI Imaging of Prostate Cancer by Targeting PSMA with Polypeptide-Labeled Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Zhu Yunkai , Sun Ying , Chen Yaqing , Liu Weiyong , Jiang Jun , Guan Wenbin , Zhang Zhongyang , Duan Yourong
Published: April 2015

The prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is broadly overexpressed on prostate cancer (PCa) cell surfaces. In this study, we report the synthesis, characterization, in vitro binding assay, and in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation of PSMA targeting superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs). PSMA-targeting polypeptide CQKHHNYLC was conjugated to SPIONs to form PSMA-targeting molecular MRI contrast agents. In vitro studies demonstrated specific uptake of polypeptide-SPIONs by PSMA expressing cells. In vivo MRI studies found that MRI signals in PSMA-expressing tumors could be specifically enhanced with polypeptide-SPION, and further Prussian blue staining showed heterogeneous deposition of SPIONs in the tumor tissues. Taken altogether, we have developed PSMA-targeting polypeptide-SPIONs that could specifically enhance MRI signal in tumor-bearing mice, which might provide a new strategy for the molecular imaging of PCa.
High Density Infill in Cracks and Protrusions from the Articular Calcified Cartilage in Osteoarthritis in Standardbred Horse Carpal Bones
Authors: Laverty Sheila , Lacourt Mathieu , Gao Chan , Henderson Janet , Boyde Alan
Published: April 2015

We studied changes in articular calcified cartilage (ACC) and subchondral bone (SCB) in the third carpal bones (C3) of Standardbred racehorses with naturally-occurring repetitive loading-induced osteoarthritis (OA). Two osteochondral cores were harvested from dorsal sites from each of 15 post-mortem C3 and classified as control or as showing early or advanced OA changes from visual inspection. We re-examined X-ray micro-computed tomography (µCT) image sets for the presence of high-density mineral infill (HDMI) in ACC cracks and possible high-density mineralized protrusions (HDMP) from the ACC mineralizing (tidemark) front (MF) into hyaline articular cartilage (HAC). We hypothesized and we show that 20-µm µCT resolution in 10-mm diameter samples is sufficient to detect HDMI and HDMP: these are lost upon tissue decalcification for routine paraffin wax histology owing to their predominant mineral content. The findings show that µCT is sufficient to discover HDMI and HDMP, which were seen in 2/10 controls, 6/9 early OA and 8/10 advanced OA cases. This is the first report of HDMI and HDMP in the equine carpus and in the Standardbred breed and the first to rely solely on µCT. HDMP are a candidate cause for mechanical tissue destruction in OA.
Skeletal Muscle Depletion Predicts the Prognosis of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treated with Sorafenib
Authors: Imai Kenji , Takai Koji , Hanai Tatsunori , Ideta Takayasu , Miyazaki Tsuneyuki , Kochi Takahiro , Suetsugu Atsushi , Shiraki Makoto , Shimizu Masahito
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study was to determine whether skeletal muscle depletion predicts the prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) that is being treated with sorafenib. We evaluated 40 consecutive HCC patients who received sorafenib treatment. The skeletal muscle cross-sectional area was measured by computed tomography at the third lumbar vertebra (L3), from which the L3 skeletal muscle index (L3 SMI) was obtained. The factors contributing to overall survival, sorafenib dose reduction, and discontinuation of sorafenib were analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards model. L3 SMI (p = 0.020) and log (α-fetoprotein (AFP)) (p = 0.010) were identified as independent prognostic factors in HCC patients treated with sorafenib. The initial dose of sorafenib (p = 0.008) was an independent risk factor for sorafenib dose reduction, and log (AFP) (p = 0.008) was the only significant risk factor for the discontinuation of this drug. L3 SMI was not a risk factor for either dose reduction (p = 0.423) or the discontinuation (p = 0.132) of sorafenib. A multiple linear regression analysis determined the following relationship between skeletal muscle mass (assessed as L3 SMI) and the explanatory factors: L3 SMI = −0.1896 × (Age) − 10.3441 × (Child-Pugh score) − 9.3922 × (log (AFP)) + 1.6139 × (log (AFP)) × (Child-Pugh score) + 112.9166. Skeletal muscle depletion is inversely associated with age, Child-Pugh score, and log (AFP). Moreover, it is an independent prognostic factor for HCC patients treated with sorafenib.
MicroRNA Expression Profile of Neural Progenitor-Like Cells Derived from Rat Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells under the Influence of IGF-1, bFGF and EGF
Authors: Huat Tee , Khan Amir , Abdullah Jafri , Idris Fauziah , Jaafar Hasnan
Published: April 2015

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) enhances cellular proliferation and reduces apoptosis during the early differentiation of bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) into neural progenitor-like cells (NPCs) in the presence of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). BMSCs were differentiated in three groups of growth factors: (A) EGF + bFGF, (B) EGF + bFGF + IGF-1, and (C) without growth factor. To unravel the molecular mechanisms of the NPCs derivation, microarray analysis using GeneChip® miRNA arrays was performed. The profiles were compared among the groups. Annotated microRNA fingerprints (GSE60060) delineated 46 microRNAs temporally up-regulated or down-regulated compared to group C. The expressions of selected microRNAs were validated by real-time PCR. Among the 46 microRNAs, 30 were consistently expressed for minimum of two consecutive time intervals. In Group B, only miR-496 was up-regulated and 12 microRNAs, including the let-7 family, miR-1224, miR-125a-3p, miR-214, miR-22, miR-320, miR-708, and miR-93, were down-regulated. Bioinformatics analysis reveals that some of these microRNAs (miR-22, miR-214, miR-125a-3p, miR-320 and let-7 family) are associated with reduction of apoptosis. Here, we summarize the roles of key microRNAs associated with IGF-1 in the differentiation of BMSCs into NPCs. These findings may provide clues to further our understanding of the mechanisms and roles of microRNAs as key regulators of BMSC-derived NPC maintenance.
De Novo Transcriptome Sequencing of Low Temperature-Treated Phlox subulata and Analysis of the Genes Involved in Cold Stress
Authors: Qu Yanting , Zhou Aimin , Zhang Xing , Tang Huanwei , Liang Ming , Han Hui , Zuo Yuhu
Published: April 2015

Phlox subulata, a perennial herbaceous flower, can survive during the winter of northeast China, where the temperature can drop to −30 °C, suggesting that P. subulata is an ideal model for studying the molecular mechanisms of cold acclimation in plants. However, little is known about the gene expression profile of P. subulata under cold stress. Here, we examined changes in cold stress-related genes in P. subulata. We sequenced three cold-treated (CT) and control (CK) samples of P. subulata. After de novo assembly and quantitative assessment of the obtained reads, 99,174 unigenes were generated. Based on similarity searches with known proteins in public protein databases, 59,994 unigenes were functionally annotated. Among all differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 8302, 10,638 and 11,021 up-regulated genes and 9898, 17,876, and 12,358 down-regulated genes were identified after treatment at 4, 0, and −10 °C, respectively. Furthermore, 3417 up-regulated unigenes were expressed only in CT samples. Twenty major cold-related genes, including transcription factors, antioxidant enzymes, osmoregulation proteins, and Ca2+ and ABA signaling components, were identified, and their expression levels were estimated. Overall, this is the first transcriptome sequencing of this plant species under cold stress. Studies of DEGs involved in cold-related metabolic pathways may facilitate the discovery of cold-resistance genes.
Clouded Issues for PHACTR1
Authors: Sand Philipp
Published: April 2015

I have read with interest the recent paper by Han and coworkers [1] on the putative effects of a PHACTR1 variant in the context of coronary artery disease. The authors conclude to a significant risk-enhancing role of rs12526453 on the grounds of 19 earlier case-control studies. [...]
Changing the Face of Kynurenines and Neurotoxicity: Therapeutic Considerations
Authors: Bohár Zsuzsanna , Toldi József , Fülöp Ferenc , Vécsei László
Published: April 2015

Kynurenines are the products of tryptophan metabolism. Among them, kynurenine and kynurenic acid are generally thought to have neuroprotective properties, while 3-hydroxykynurenine, 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid and quinolinic acid are considered neurotoxic. They participate in immunoregulation and inflammation and possess pro- or anti-excitotoxic properties, and their involvement in oxidative stress has also been suggested. Consequently, it is not surprising that kynurenines have been closely related to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and multiple sclerosis. More information about the less-known metabolites, picolinic and cinnabarinic acid, evaluation of new receptorial targets, such as aryl-hydrocarbon receptors, and intensive research on the field of the immunomodulatory function of kynurenines delineated the high importance of this pathway in general homeostasis. Emerging knowledge about the kynurenine pathway provides new target points for the development of therapeutical solutions against neurodegenerative diseases.
Association between PDCD1 Gene Polymorphisms and Risk of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Three Main Ethnic Groups of the Malaysian Population
Authors: Chua Kek , Lian Lay , Sim Xiu , Cheah Tien , Lau Tze
Published: April 2015

The programmed cell death 1 (PDCD1) gene encodes for the PD-1 (programmed death 1) molecule, which negatively regulates self-reactive T- and B-cells in the maintenance of peripheral tolerance. A previous report had shown the development of lupus-like phenotypes in PD-1-deficient C57BL/6 mice, was suggestive to the role of PDCD1 in predisposing to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Hence, we aimed to investigate the association between PDCD1 and SLE susceptibility in the Malaysian population. A TaqMan-based real-time PCR was employed to screen for PD1.1, PD1.3, PD1.5 and PD1.6 in both SLE and healthy control groups of 200 samples each. The observed frequency for PD1.5C/C genotype was significantly higher in Indian SLE patients and Malay controls (p < 0.01). On the other hand, the PD1.5C/T genotype might predispose the Malays to SLE, but confer a protective effect among the Indians (p < 0.01). The PD1.1, PD1.3 and PD1.6 were, however, not correlated to genetic predisposition of SLE in our Malaysian population. In conclusion, PD1.5 variant was significantly associated to SLE susceptibility in our Malaysian cohort. Our failure in replicating the association between other investigated PDCD1 variants and risk of getting SLE might due to ethnic and geographic variations in the distribution of these genetic variants.
Neuroendocrine Disturbances after Brain Damage: An Important and Often Undiagnosed Disorder
Authors: Tanriverdi Fatih , Kelestimur Fahrettin
Published: April 2015

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common and significant public health problem all over the world. Until recently, TBI has been recognized as an uncommon cause of hypopituitarism. The studies conducted during the last 15 years revealed that TBI is a serious cause of hypopituitarism. Although the underlying pathophysiology has not yet been fully clarified, new data indicate that genetic predisposition, autoimmunity and neuroinflammatory changes may play a role in the development of hypopituitarism. Combative sports, including boxing and kickboxing, both of which are characterized by chronic repetitive head trauma, have been shown as new causes of neuroendocrine abnormalities, mainly hypopituitarism, for the first time during the last 10 years. Most patients with TBI-induced pituitary dysfunction remain undiagnosed and untreated because of the non-specific and subtle clinical manifestations of hypopituitarism. Replacement of the deficient hormones, of which GH is the commonest hormone lost, may not only reverse the clinical manifestations and neurocognitive dysfunction, but may also help posttraumatic disabled patients resistant to classical treatment who have undiagnosed hypopituitarism and GH deficiency in particular. Therefore, early diagnosis, which depends on the awareness of TBI as a cause of neuroendocrine abnormalities among the medical community, is crucially important.
Extensionless UTBB FDSOI Devices in Enhanced Dynamic Threshold Mode under Low Power Point of View
Authors: Sasaki Katia , Aoulaiche Marc , Simoen Eddy , Claeys Cor , Martino Joao
Published: April 2015

This work presents an analysis about the influence of the gate and source/drain underlap length (LUL) on UTBB FDSOI (UltraThin-Body-and-Buried-oxide Fully-Depleted-Silicon-On-Insulator) devices operating in conventional (VB = 0 V), dynamic threshold (DT, VB = VG), and the enhanced DT (eDT, VB = kVG) configurations, focusing on low power applications. It is shown that the underlap devices present a lower off-state current (IOFF at VG = 0 V), lower subthreshold swing (S), lower gate-induced drain leakage (GIDL), higher transconductance over drain current (gm/ID) ratio and higher intrinsic voltage gain (|AV|) due to their longer effective channel length in weak inversion and lower lateral electric field, while the eDT mode presents higher on-state current (ION) with the same IOFF, lower S, higher maximum transconductance (gmmax), lower threshold voltage (VT), higher gm/ID ratio and higher |AV| due to the dynamically reduced threshold voltage and stronger transversal electric field.
Water Absorption Behavior of Hemp Hurds Composites
Authors: Stevulova Nadezda , Cigasova Julia , Purcz Pavol , Schwarzova Ivana , Kacik Frantisek , Geffert Anton
Published: April 2015

In this paper, water sorption behavior of 28 days hardened composites based on hemp hurds and inorganic binder was studied. Two kinds of absorption tests on dried cube specimens in deionized water bath at laboratory temperature were performed. Short-term (after one hour water immersion) and long-term (up to 180 days) water absorption tests were carried out to study their durability. Short-term water sorption behavior of original hemp hurds composites depends on mean particle length of hemp and on binder nature. The comparative study of long-term water sorption behavior of composites reinforced with original and chemically modified hemp hurds in three reagents confirmed that surface treatment of filler influences sorption process. Based on evaluation of sorption curves using a model for composites based on natural fibers, diffusion of water molecules in composite reinforced with original and chemically modified hemp hurds is anomalous in terms of the Fickian behavior. The most significant decrease in hydrophility of hemp hurds was found in case of hemp hurds modified by NaOH and it relates to change in the chemical composition of hemp hurds, especially to a decrease in average degree of cellulose polymerization as well as hemicellulose content.
Process Optimisation to Control the Physico-Chemical Characteristics of Biomimetic Nanoscale Hydroxyapatites Prepared Using Wet Chemical Precipitation
Authors: Gentile Piergiorgio , Wilcock Caroline , Miller Cheryl , Moorehead Robert , Hatton Paul
Published: April 2015

Hydroxyapatite nanoscale particles (nHA) were prepared by wet chemical precipitation using four different synthesis methods. Differences in physico-chemical properties including morphology, particle-size, and crystallinity were investigated following alteration of critical processing parameters. The nanoparticles were also studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy in attenuated total reflectance mode (FTIR-ATR), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) with energy dispersive X-ray (EDS) spectrometry. The results showed that the particles obtained were composed of nHA, with different morphologies and aspect ratios (1.5 to 4) and degrees of crystallinity (40% to 70% following calcination) depending on the different process parameters of the synthesis method used, such as temperature, ripening time and pH. This study demonstrated that relatively small adjustments to processing conditions of different wet chemical preparation methods significantly affect the morphological and chemical characteristics of nHA. For the predicable preparation of biomimetic nHA for specific applications, the selection of both production method and careful control of processing conditions are paramount.
Novel Adociaquinone Derivatives from the Indonesian Sponge Xestospongia sp.
Authors: He Fei , Mai Linh , Longeon Arlette , Copp Brent , Loaëc Nadège , Bescond Amandine , Meijer Laurent , Bourguet-Kondracki Marie-Lise
Published: April 2015

Seven new adociaquinone derivatives, xestoadociaquinones A (1a), B (1b), 14-carboxy-xestoquinol sulfate (2) and xestoadociaminals A–D (3a, 3c, 4a, 4c), together with seven known compounds (5–11) were isolated from an Indonesian marine sponge Xestospongia sp. Their structures were elucidated by extensive 1D and 2D NMR and mass spectrometric data. All the compounds were evaluated for their potential inhibitory activity against eight different protein kinases involved in cell proliferation, cancer, diabetes and neurodegenerative disorders as well as for their antioxidant and antibacterial activities.
Diatom Milking: A Review and New Approaches
Authors: Vinayak Vandana , Manoylov Kalina , Gateau Hélène , Blanckaert Vincent , Hérault Josiane , Pencréac'h Gaëlle , Marchand Justine , Gordon Richard , Schoefs Benoît
Published: April 2015

The rise of human populations and the growth of cities contribute to the depletion of natural resources, increase their cost, and create potential climatic changes. To overcome difficulties in supplying populations and reducing the resource cost, a search for alternative pharmaceutical, nanotechnology, and energy sources has begun. Among the alternative sources, microalgae are the most promising because they use carbon dioxide (CO2) to produce biomass and/or valuable compounds. Once produced, the biomass is ordinarily harvested and processed (downstream program). Drying, grinding, and extraction steps are destructive to the microalgal biomass that then needs to be renewed. The extraction and purification processes generate organic wastes and require substantial energy inputs. Altogether, it is urgent to develop alternative downstream processes. Among the possibilities, milking invokes the concept that the extraction should not kill the algal cells. Therefore, it does not require growing the algae anew. In this review, we discuss research on milking of diatoms. The main themes are (a) development of alternative methods to extract and harvest high added value compounds; (b) design of photobioreactors; (c) biodiversity and (d) stress physiology, illustrated with original results dealing with oleaginous diatoms.
The Cytoprotective Effect of Petalonia binghamiae Methanol Extract against Oxidative Stress in C2C12 Myoblasts: Mediation by Upregulation of Heme Oxygenase-1 and Nuclear Factor-Erythroid 2 Related Factor 2
Authors: Kang Ji , Choi Il-Whan , Han Min , Lee Dae-Sung , Kim Gi-Young , Hwang Hye , Kim Byung , Kim Cheol , Yoo Young , Choi Yung
Published: April 2015

This study was designed to examine the protective effects of the marine brown algae Petalonia binghamiae against oxidative stress-induced cellular damage and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. P. binghamiae methanol extract (PBME) prevented hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced growth inhibition and exhibited scavenging activity against intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by H2O2 in mouse-derived C2C12 myoblasts. PBME also significantly attenuated H2O2-induced comet tail formation in a comet assay, histone γH2A.X phosphorylation, and annexin V-positive cells, suggesting that PBME prevented H2O2-induced cellular DNA damage and apoptotic cell death. Furthermore, PBME increased the levels of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), a potent antioxidant enzyme, associated with the induction of nuclear factor-erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2). However, zinc protoporphyrin IX, a HO-1 competitive inhibitor, significantly abolished the protective effects of PBME on H2O2-induced ROS generation, growth inhibition, and apoptosis. Collectively, these results demonstrate that PBME augments the antioxidant defense capacity through activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.