bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
It Pays to Set the Menu: Mutual Fund Investment Options in 401(k) Plans
Authors: Pool Veronika K. , Sialm Clemens , Stefanescu Irina
Published: August 2019

This paper investigates whether mutual fund families acting as service providers in 401(k) plans display favoritism toward their own funds. Using a hand-collected dataset on retirement investment options, we show that poorly-performing funds are less likely to be removed from and more likely to be added to a 401(k) menu if they are affiliated with the plan trustee. We find no evidence that plan participants undo this a liation bias through their investment choices. Finally, the subsequent performance of poorly-performing affiliated funds indicates that these trustee decisions are not information driven.
Biofunctional Attributes and Storage Study of Soy Milk Fermented by Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus helveticus
Authors: Mishra Birendra Kumar , Hati Subrota , Das Sujit , Prajapati Jashbhai B.
Published: August 2019

Different soybean products are considered as traditional functional food among the Mongolian population in Northeast India. In the present study, the effect of different flavours (mango, orange, vanilla and white rose), inoculation rates of Lactobacillus rhamnosus K4E (KX950834) and Lactobacillus helveticus K14 (KU644578), and mass fractions of skimmed milk and sugar on the acceptability of soy yoghurts was studied. Physicochemical (pH, titratable acidity) and microbial analyses (total bacterial, total coliform, yeast and mould count) were conducted, and organoleptic (aroma, taste, colour, mouthfeel, texture and overall acceptability) and biofunctional properties (angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities and biotransformation of isoflavones) were evaluated during storage up to 10 days under refrigeration conditions (6–8 °C). Panellists preferred white rose soy yoghurt more than other flavours. The pH was from 5.65 to 4.20, the titratable acidity (expressed as mass fraction of lactic acid) was from 0.33 to 0.51 % and total Lactobacillus count ranged from 6.81 to 8.69 log CFU/mL during storage. The ACE inhibitory activity increased from 21.17 % on day 0 to 81.03 % on day 5, followed by a decrease of the activity after 10 days (38.85 %). The antioxidant activity was the highest on day 5 (87 %). White rose soy yoghurt had the highest antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes, followed by Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi and Escherichia coli. RP-HPLC analysis showed that after 18 h, the production of soy isoflavone aglycones genistein and daidzein in yoghurt was 87.3 and 58.4 %, respectively.
К 20-летию ВТО: критический взгляд на практику Органа по разрешению споров
Authors: Исполинов Алексей Станиславович
Published: August 2019

Рассмотрена деятельность Органа по разрешению споров ВТО с критической точки зрения, представляющего собой, по мнению автора, своеобразный институт, сочетающий дипломатические и судебные компоненты. Именно с этих позиций проанализированы такие ее особенности, как специфический характер выносимых решений, основанный на ответных мерах механизм выполнения решений, эволюция роли и видов мировых соглашений, заключаемых в рамках ВТО.
MOVAT Pentachrome Staining v1
Authors: Alpers Charles
Published: August 2019

Summary: The following table describes the staining color for various structures. Results: Nuclei and Elastic Fibers Black Ground Substance and Mucin Blue Muscle Red Collagen and Reticular Fibers Yellow Fibrinioid and Fibrin Intense Red Diabetic Complications:
Determination of Podocyte Number and Density in Rodent Glomeruli v1
Authors: Brosius Frank
Published: August 2019

Summary: This protocol describes a validated protocol used by some DiaComp members to determine podocyte numbers in rodent glomeruli. Edited by: Brosius Laboratory Diabetic Complication: Reference: Sanden SK, Wiggins JE, Goyal M, Riggs LK, and Wiggins RC. Evaluation of a thick and thin section method for estimation of podocyte number, glomerular volume, and glomerular volume per podocyte in rat kidney with Wilms' tumor-1 protein used as a podocyte nuclear marker. J Am Soc Nephrol 14: 2484-2493, 2003.
Induce Stroke via Hypoxia-Ischemia v1
Authors: Simpson Ian
Published: August 2019

Summary: This document describes the procedure for inducing a stroke in diabetic RCS10 mice, their non-diabetic controls and NON/ShiLtJ control mice. Our initial objective was to use those RCS10 mice that did not become diabetic as the controls for the experiment to compare the effect of diabetes on stroke outcome and that data is illustrated in Figure 2. However, with further breading the numbers of non- diabetic RCS 10 mice at twenty weeks of age were so few that it became necessary to use the NON/ShiLtJ mice which are 85% genetically identical to the RCS10 mice and stroke outcome is illustrated in Figure 3. Diabetic Complications:
Mesangial Index Quantification v1
Authors: Brosius Frank
Published: August 2019

Summary: This protocol describes the procedures for quantifying the percent area of the glomerulus that is PAS stained and is expressed as the mesangial index. Diabetic Complication:
Removal and Preservation of the Urinary Bladder v2
Authors: Danashgeri Firuoz
Published: August 2019

Summary: This protocol describes the proper procedure for harvesting bladders from rats or mice for use by the DiaComp Uropathy group. Diabetic Complication:
U Michigan - Intra-Epidermal Fiber Density v2
Authors: L. Feldman Eva
Published: August 2019

Summary: Intra-epidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) is used as a tool to assess small fiber neuropathy.
U Michigan - Western Blot v2
Authors: Hodgin Jeff
Published: August 2019

Summary: Immunoblotting (also called Western Blotting) is a technique to separate and identify individual proteins in a protein mixture (e.g. a cell lysate). In Immunoblotting (Western blotting) the protein mixture is applied to a gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE gel electrophoresis) to sort the proteins by its molecular weight size in individual protein bands. The separated protein bands are then transferred to a nitrocellulose transfer membrane. The proteins adhere to the membrane in the same pattern as they have been separated due to interactions of charges. To visualize the protein of interest the membrane is commonly first probed using a primary protein- specific antibody followed by a labeled secondary antibody. The specificity of the antibody-antigen interaction enables a target protein to be identified in the midst of a complex protein mixture. The bound antibodies are then detected by western blotting substrate (e.g. Pierce ECL Western Blotting Substrate), and then visualized by using adeveloping film (HyBlot CL Autoradiography Film) in the darkroom. The thickness of the band corresponds to the amount of protein present.
U Michigan - Sirius Red staining v2
Authors: Hodgin Jeff
Published: August 2019

Summary: Picrosirius red staining (also called Sirius red staining) highlights fibrosis by staining collagen (collagen 1 and III fibers) fibers in paraffin-embedded kidney tissue sections. Sirius red stained collagen appears red by light microscopy. When polarized, the birefringence is highly specific for collagen. The larger collagen fibers are bright yellow or orange, and the thinner ones, including reticular fibers, are green.
Stranded Mapping from Oriented Long Reads v5
Authors: A Eccles David
Published: August 2019

This protocol demonstrates how to map strand-oriented long reads to a genome, and visualise them in a genome browser. The general idea is to use minimap2 to create stranded BAM files, which are split for forward/reverse orientation then converted into BigWig format for display in a genome browser. Input(s): stranded fastq files (see protocol Preparing Reads for Stranded Mapping) a FASTA file containing the genome / sequence of interest. Output(s): Genome-mapped stranded BAM files Genome-mapped stranded BigWig files
Los diccionarios enciclopédicos del español actual
Authors: Anaya Revuelta Inmaculada
Published: August 2019

Los diccionarios enciclopédicos del español actual.
La importancia de la cuarta edición en relación con los diminutivos que aparecen en el DRAE
Authors: García Pérez Rafael
Published: August 2019

La importancia de la cuarta edición en relación con los diminutivos que aparecen en el DRAE.
La lexicografía del español de América y un nuevo diccionario de americanismos
Authors: Haensch Günter
Published: August 2019

La lexicografía del español de América y un nuevo diccionario de americanismos.
Winchester, Simon (1999): El profesor y el loco. Una historia de crímenes, locura y amor por las palabras, Madrid, Debate (col. Pequeña Gran Historia), 262 páginas
Authors: Carriscondo Esquivel Manuel
Published: August 2019

Reseña de libro: Winchester, Simon (1999): El profesor y el loco. Una historia de crímenes, locura y amor por las palabras, Madrid, Debate (col. Pequeña Gran Historia), 262 páginas.
TRABALHO, PUNIÇÃO E POLÍTICA SOCIAL: notas sobre a gestão da miséria e da violência no capitalismo periférico tardio
Authors: Bittencourt Matheus Boni
Published: August 2019

Este artigo visa compreender, por meio de pesquisa bibliográfica e documental e abordagem da sociologia histórica, as mudanças, no Brasil pós-autoritário, das instituições do trabalho e da punição sobre os processos de acumulação flexível e global, de um lado, e de endurecimento punitivo, de outro. Evidencia que, no Brasil, historicamente, o desenvolvimentismo, em versões mais ou menos democráticas ou autoritárias, populistas ou conservadoras, estruturou uma cidadania estratificada. Conclui, ainda, que a transição democrática inaugurou uma concepção universalista e igualitária da cidadania, cuja implementação foi limitada tanto pela tradição autoritária quanto pela ortodoxia macroeconômica. Dessa maneira, o Brasil combinou inclusivismo e punitivismo, uma contradição latente que explodiu em conflito aberto com a dissolução da coalizão lulista na crise política e econômica da década de 2010.Palavras-chave: Cidadania. Trabalho. Punição. Política social.
FRANCO, Marielle. UPP: a redução da favela a três letras: uma análise da política de segurança pública do estado do Rio de Janeiro. São Paulo: n-1 edições, 2018. 160 p.
Authors: Cardoso Francilene
Published: August 2019

Marielle, mulher negra, mãe, favelada e lésbica era filiada ao Partido Socialismo e Liberdade (PSOL/RJ).  Assessora parlamentar do deputado estadual Marcelo Freixo. Graduada em Ciências Sociais pela PUC-RJ, bolsista pelo Programa ProUni, mestre em Administração Pública pela Universidade Federal Fluminense, pesquisou o processo de implantação das chamadas Unidades de Polícia Pacificadoras (UPP’s) na cidade do Rio de Janeiro. Eleita vereadora da Câmara Municipal com 46 mil votos, com pautas em defesa das mulheres negras, moradores de favela e população LGBT. Presidenta da Comissão de Defesa da Mulher e relatora da comissão de intervenção federal no Rio de Janeiro.
AS ILUSÕES DO POLICIAMENTO COMUNITÁRIO: O caso da Paraíba
Authors: França Fábio Gomes de
Published: August 2019

Este trabalho descreve a relação entre o desenvolvimento do policiamento comunitário enquanto política de Segurança Pública e o uso desse projeto pelo aparato policial militar para justificar formas de controle estatal na cidade de João Pessoa, na Paraíba. Tem como base dados obtidos por meio de observação direta e participante e entrevistas semiestruturadas realizadas durante os anos de 2012-2014 com policiais militares (Praças e Oficiais) que participavam do projeto de polícia comunitária, intitulado policiamento solidário. Conclui que o discurso institucional acerca do projeto oculta formas de violência que acabam por sofisticar o controle estatal por meio de uma política de resultados com base na redução de homicídios em detrimento de políticas sociais que possam melhorar as reais condições dos locais onde o projeto foi implantado.Palavras-chave: Policiamento de proximidade. Políticas de segurança pública. Controle social.
Desarrollo de un sistema automatizado de escaneo por radiación gamma
Authors: Rodríguez-Méndez Francisco , Meneses-Guzmán Marcela , Chinè-Polito Bruno , Pereira-Arroyo Roberto
Published: August 2019

Las técnicas de medición por ensayos no destructivos han demostrado ser una poderosa herramienta en el estudio y caracterización de materiales. Este trabajo presenta el desarrollo de un sistema automatizado para la medición de la atenuación de radiación gamma en los materiales. Primero, se describe el proceso de diseño de los elementos electromecánicos y el sistema de control automático, seguido de su implementación. Los resultados muestran la capacidad y precisión mecánica obtenidas para el sistema desarrollado. En particular la resolución del motor y capacidad de recorrido del robot son respectivamente de 8 µm para el movimiento horizontal con un movimiento de hasta 54 cm bidireccional y 4 µm para el movimiento vertical con un movimiento de hasta 57 cm bidireccional. Además, el sistema permite una rotación de las muestras con un recorrido de 360° unidireccional. Se comprueba estadísticamente la sensibilidad del sistema para detectar cambios locales en el espesor del material, evaluando los periodos de muestreo para obtener una medición con precisión. Se determina el error relativo de las mediciones, analizando posibles causas y soluciones.
Variación Temporal de Gremios Tróficos de un Ensamble de Murciélagos en un Agro-paisaje de Bosque Seco en Costa Rica
Authors: Ramírez-Vargas Marco A. , Piedra-Castro Lilliana , Pineda-Lizano Willy
Published: August 2019

En Costa Rica, el bosque seco tropical se encuentra restringido al Pacifico Norte del país, siendo uno de los pocos remanentes de bosque seco mesoamericano existente. Este bosque presenta notables variaciones en las condiciones climáticas a lo largo del año, especialmente en términos de precipitación. Esta variación hace necesario que la fauna que aquí habita deba de adaptarse en función de la disponibilidad de alimento. Analizamos la variación del ensamblaje de murciélagos y la composición de gremios tróficos en un agro paisaje de bosque seco. Describimos como la presencia y abundancia de diferentes especies y gremios de murciélagos en el sitio está relacionada con la variación en el patrón de lluvias, afectando distintivamente a nectarívoros, frugívoros, insectívoros o hematófagos. Proponemos que las especies que conforman el ensamble de murciélagos en el sitio, probablemente realizan movimientos locales periódicos, utilizando el área de estudio solo temporalmente. Destacamos que dado el probable movimiento de especies durante el año, es necesario mantener elementos naturales, como parches de bosque y humedales, dentro de los agro paisajes como una estrategia de conservación de la biodiversidad a nivel regional.
Análisis de ADN mediante espectroscopía Raman utilizando el método SERS
Authors: Varela-Fonseca Stephanie , Montero-Zeledón Ernesto , Rojas- Rojas Laura , Varela-Fonseca Alejandro , Gutiérrez-Fallas Dionisio
Published: August 2019

El avance tecnológico de las últimas décadas ha propiciado el desarrollo de nuevas metodologías para la caracterización de materiales de origen biológico. La espectroscopía Raman es utilizada principalmente en la caracterización de sustancias orgánicas e inorgánicas puras, sin embargo, recientemente se está utilizando para el estudio de organismos y estructuras moleculares de interés biológico. La principal dificultad en el análisis de estos materiales mediante la espectroscopía Raman es la fluorescencia que presentan las muestras al ser iluminadas con el haz de luz láser, pero mediante la técnica SERS (Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy), es posible aumentar la señal Raman y reducir la interferencia de la fluorescencia. Para la aplicación de las técnicas SERS se pueden utilizar nanopartículas metálicas, principalmente oro y plata, de una adecuada distribución de tamaños. En este trabajo se presentan los resultados de la aplicación de técnica SERS a la caracterización espectroscópica del ADN de dos organismos diferentes, de un ser humano y de una bacteria del género Rickettsia, utilizando nanopartículas de oro y plata para la aplicación de la metodología.
Brasil, Paraguai, Argentina e Chile / Rota Bioceânica: relações culturais no território vivido
Authors: Ferreira Magali Lúzio , Castilho Maria Augusta , Oliveira Edilene Maria
Published: August 2019

O presente artigo tem como objeto de estudo os países da América Platina envolvidos na Rota Bioceânica e suas relações culturais de vizinhança. O estudo analisa as culturas materiais e imateriais que permeiam este espaço e seus entrelaçamentos na conexão entre o Centro-Oeste brasileiro e o Pacífico.  Assim, não basta o foco sobre as questões logísticas que facilitarão o mercado em geral, o agronegócio, a importação e exportação de produtos, mas sim impulsionar os setores empresariais dos quatro países envolvidos na referida Rota. O projeto cria relações de convivências e estreitam as culturas territoriais. Infere-se que a relevância deste trabalho é o de salvaguardar o sentimento de pertença dos cidadãos locais em prol dos direitos de cidadania, por isso, há a necessidade de não se privar a temática como registro a preservação patrimonial. Para a realização do estudo utilizou-se o método dedutivo com uma abrangência sistêmica, por meio de uma investigação criteriosa em arquivos públicos, bibliotecas, livros, jornais, sites, assinalando as obras que fornecerão subsídios ao trabalho em tela. Os resultados apontam evidências que reafirmam e privilegiam a preservação da identidade, história e identificação cidadã.
Transporte rodoviário internacional de cargas perigosas
Authors: Taveira José Carlos , Portela Raphael Ricardo , Menegante Rogério Rodolfo
Published: August 2019

Este artigo analisa as cargas transportadas nos países da América do Sul nas rodovias internacionais, identificando os riscos que podem ocorrer, os quais desencadeiam impactos ao meio ambiente e prejudicam o ecossistema do nosso planeta. São apresentadas as legislações pertinentes ao tema, bem como os regulamentos ambientais do Chile, Argentina e Paraguai, e toda a normatização da Associação Brasileira de Normas Técnicas - ABNT relacionada a esse tema. São identificados, nesse contexto, os equipamentos de proteção individual – EPIs adequados que devem ser utilizados pelos motoristas, a classificação dos produtos perigosos e os requisitos necessários para o motorista que irá transportá-los. Os resultados destacam as irregularidades no transporte de cargas perigosas, caso não seja feita a mitigação desse problema, por meio do que se apresentam nas considerações finais.
Perspectivas da economia criativa e do desenvolvimento local na Rota Bioceânica
Authors: Asato Thiago Andrade , Marques Heitor Romero , Buzarquis Rodrigo Mussi , Borges Pedro Pereira
Published: August 2019

O presente artigo de revisão bibliográfica, objetiva caracterizar a Rota Bioceânica na perspectiva da economia criativa e do desenvolvimento local. Tal rota terá 2,2 mil km entre Campo Grande e Antofagasta. No roteiro da Rota denota-se a passagem por 12 cidades. Um tratado já firmado diz respeito a uma ponte ligando Porto Murtinho a Carmelo Peralta no Paraguai. Viés importante é o turístico da Rota. Pela diversidade de atrações nos quatro países, a potencialidade para o desenvolvimento turístico é imensa, o planejamento deve envolver o poder público, setor privado e comunidades locais. A ideia de desenvolvimento corresponde à ação de desvelamento, crescimento, desabrochar de algo, comportando variadas locuções a exemplo de local, social, econômico, político, territorial, comunitário, sustentável, endógeno, exógeno, no local, horizontal, vertical e humano, entre outros. A economia criativa têm sua origem na criatividade individual, habilidade e talento e têm um potencial de riqueza e criação de empregos através da geração e exploração da propriedade intelectual.
Analisis Logam Timbal (Pb) pada Lipstik yang Beredar di Kecamatan Pasar Jambi
Authors: Martines Sholeha Annisa , Latief Madyawati , Rahman Havizur
Published: August 2019

Pendahuluan: Lipstik adalah produk kosmetika yang dibuat dari cetak tuang bahan berbasis padatan yang mengandung bahan pewarna terlarut dan/atau tersuspensi yang memenuhi kriteria/persyaratan sebagai pewarna. Sediaan ini mengandung lilin, minyak, dan pewarna sebagai tiga bahan utama dan beberapa bahan tambahan sebagai antioksidan, pengawet, dan parfum. Timbal (Pb) dalam produk kosmetik bisa berasal dari beberapa bahan alami yang mengandung timbal (Pb) (seperti pewarna dan pigmen) atau peralatan yang digunakan selama proses produksi. Tujuan: Tujuan penelitian ini yaitu mengetahui kadar logam timbal (Pb) yang terkandung dalam sediaan lipstik yang beredar di Kecamatan Pasar Jambi. Metode: Metode yang digunakan untuk mengetahui kadar timbal (Pb) yaitu secara kualitatif menggunakan pereaksi warna dan secara kuantitatif menggunakan SSA (Spektrofotometer Serapan Atom). Hasil: Hasil yang diperoleh yaitu dari 10 sampel lipstik yang digunakan positif mengandung logam berat timbal (Pb) ditandai dengan terbentuknya endapan kuning oleh reagen KI. Rata-rata kadar logam berat timbal (Pb) pada lipstik adalah 0,899 µg/g. Kesimpulan: Hal ini menginformasikan bahwa lipstik yang beredar di Kecamatan Pasar Jambi aman jika digunakan oleh masyarakat. Berdasarkan peraturan yang dikeluarkan oleh BPOM RI batas kandungan logam berat timbal (Pb) dalam kosmetik yaitu < 20 µg/g.
Pengaruh Lama Pemberian Fondaparinux terhadap Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT) pada Pasien Sindroma Koroner Akut
Authors: Puspitasari Arina Dery , Suharjono Suharjono , Yogiarto Yogiarto
Published: August 2019

Pendahuluan: Fondaparinux 2,5 mg sebagai terapi antikoagulan pada pasien Sindroma Koroner Akut (SKA) di RSUD Dr. Soetomo Surabaya diberikan selama 5 hari, sedangkan pustaka menyebutkan bahwa fondaparinux diberikan selama 3 - 7 hari. Kadar steady-state dapat dicapai setelah 3 - 4 hari dan efek antikoagulan dari fondaparinux dapat bertahan selama 2 - 4 hari setelah terapi dihentikan pada pasien dengan fungsi ginjal normal. Diperlukan penelitian untuk mengetahui pengaruh lama pemberian fondaparinux 2,5 mg subcutan sekali sehari pada hari ke-3, 4, dan 5 terhadap Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT). Tujuan: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui apakah ada perbedaan pemberian fondaparinux terhadap nilai APTT pada penderita SKA. Metode: Sampel penelitian ini adalah seluruh pasien yang didiagnosis SKA yang diberikan terapi fondaparinux di RSUD Dr. Soetomo Surabaya. Jenis penelitian ini adalah observasional dengan rancang bangun prospektif kohort. Teknik pengambilan sampel dengan purposive sampling. Instrumen yang digunakan adalah rekam medis pasien dan hasil rekam pengukuran nilai APTT. Data demografi pasien dan nilai APTT dianalisis secara deskriptif dan One Way Anova digunakan untuk mengetahui perbedaan antara masing-masing kelompok terhadap lama pemberian fondaparinux terhadap APTT. Hasil: Penggunaan fondaparinux meningkatkan nilai rata-rata APTT dan mencapai target (25 - 40 detik) pada 9 orang pasien selama 3 hari (39,39 ± 8,02 detik), 4 hari (39,98 ± 12,15 detik), dan 5 hari (40,06 ± 6,21 detik). Tidak ada perbedaan bermakna antara APTT dengan lama pemberian fondaparinux 2,5 mg subcutan sekali sehari selama 3, 4, dan 5 hari (p > 0,05). Kesimpulan: Lama pemberian fondaparinux pada hari ke-3, 4, dan 5 tidak berbeda bermakna dalam meningkatkan nilai APTT.
Why a Constant Number of Vertebrae? - Digital Control of Segmental Identity During Vertebrate Development
Authors: Kudlicki Andrzej
Published: August 2019

It is not understood how the numbers and identities of vertebrae are controlled during mammalian development. The remarkable robustness and conservation of segmental numbers may suggest a digital nature of the underlying process. Here I propose a mechanism that allows cells to obtain and store the segmental information in digital form, and to produce a pattern of chromatin accessibility that in turn regulates Hox gene expression specific to the metameric segment. The model requires that a regulatory element be present such that the number of occurrences of the motif between two consecutive Hox genes equals the number of segments under the control of the anterior gene. This is true for the recently discovered HRC3 motif, associated with histone modifications and developmental genes. The finding not only allows correctly predicting the numbers of segments using only sequence information, but also resolves the 40-year-old enigma of the function of temporal and spatial collinearity of Hox genes. The logic of the mechanism is illustrated in an animated video: https://youtu.be/4a3XOQ7Lz28. I also discuss how different aspects of the proposed mechanism can be tested experimentally.
Modern metallography – the basis of foundry material science
Authors: Anisovich A. G.
Published: August 2019

The article briefly discusses the capebilities of modern metallography – optical contrasting, quantitative metallography, image processing programs. The question of the absence of modern literature on metallography is touched on. The problem of representing the structures of materials and the Internet is discussed. The problems of the development of metallographic research in Belarus are also presented. It is noted that the development of metallographic research in Belarus is hampered by the lack of funds for the acquisition of the equipment, as well as the lack of qualified personnel.
Characterization of Soil Moisture Distribution and Movement Under the Influence of Watering-dewatering Using AHFO and BOTDA Technologies
Authors: Cao Ding-Feng , Shi Bin , Zhu Hong-Hu , Tang Chao-Sheng , Song Zhan-Pu , Wei Guang-Qing , Garg Ankit
Published: August 2019

The infiltration and distribution of water through unsaturated soil determine its mechanical and hydrological properties. However, there are few methods that can accurately capture the spatial distribution of moisture inside soil. This study aims to demonstrate the use of actively heated fiber optic (AHFO) and Brillouin optical time domain analysis (BOTDA) technologies for monitoring soil moisture distribution as well as strain distribution. In addition to a laboratory model test, finite element analyses were conducted to interpret the measurements. During the experiment, the fine particle migration was also measured to understand its influence on soil hydraulic conductivity. The results of the experiment indicate that (i) for a soil that has never experienced a watering-dewatering cycle, water infiltration can be accurately calculated using the Richards’ equation; (ii) migration of fine soil particles caused by the watering-dewatering cycle significantly increases the hydraulic conductivity; and (iii) two critical zones (drainage and erosion) play significant roles in determining the overall hydraulic conductivity of the entire soil. This study provides a new method for monitoring the changes in soil moisture, soil strain, and hydraulic conductivity. The observations suggest that the effect of fine particles migration should be considered while evaluating soil moisture distribution and water movement.
Benthic Foraminifera in Hypersaline Salwa Bay (saudi Arabia): an Insight Into Future Climate Change in the Gulf Region?
Authors: Amao Abduljamiu O. , Kaminski Michael A. , Babalola Lamidi
Published: August 2019

The Arabian Gulf is considered a naturally stressed environment due to extremes of salinity and summer temperatures, and the Salwa Bay area is commonly considered to be the most hypersaline extension of this gulf. This study documents foraminiferal diversity, abundance and incidences of test deformities in Salwa Bay, near the Saudi Arabia−Qatar Border. The total time-averaged (live + dead) benthic foraminiferal assemblage was dominated by porcelaneous taxa (85%). The three most abundant species were Peneroplis pertusus (24%), P. planatus (15%), and Coscinospira hemprichii (9%), accounting for nearly half of the total assemblage. Other common taxa included Elphidium spp. (14%), Ammonia spp. (10%), and Quinqueloculina sp. (4%). About a quarter of the specimens picked were living (rose Bengal stained) at the time of collection, and 43% of the tests of the most common taxa were mildly to severely deformed. Types of deformities included fusion of two adults or double tests, protuberances on the spiral side, abnormal chamber arrangement, abnormal shape of the proloculus, dents, re-positioning of the aperture, and modification of the coiling plane. Two genera accounted for three quarters of the observed test deformities: Peneroplis (58%) and Coscinospira (17%). The combination of elevated temperatures, high salinities, and the ecology of the taxa encountered is likely responsible for the abundance, relatively low diversity, and high incidence of deformities in foraminiferal tests from Salwa Bay. We conclude that the percentage of test abnormalities is not a useful environmental proxy for pollution in such naturally stressed environments where high incidences of test deformities commonly occur.
In Situ Observations of Foraminiferal Bleaching in the Maldives, Indian Ocean
Authors: Spezzaferri Silvia , El Kateb Akram , Pisapia Chiara , Hallock Pamela
Published: August 2019

Coral reefs are threatened worldwide by a variety of natural and human-induced stressors; anomalous temperatures are presently among the most serious threats by causing extensive coral bleaching. Amphistegina spp. exhibit similar bleaching as corals in the presence of photo-oxidative stress induced by either light or temperature, especially during times of maximum solar irradiance. At 11 islands (34 sampling sites) in the North Ari Atoll in the Maldives, bleaching in Amphistegina was observed a few weeks before the onset of an extensive El Niño-related coral bleaching that was more severe than expected for this region. Assessment using the Amphistegina Bleaching Index (ABI) showed that the proportions of bleached specimens of Amphistegina in April–May 2015 can be explained by photo-inhibitory stress associated with temperatures exceeding 30°C during peak seasonal solar irradiance and water transparency. Importantly, the ABI indicates that environmental conditions are suitable for Amphistegina and other calcifying symbioses at most of the investigated sites, and that either chronic or relatively recent onset of photo-oxidative stress was present at the time of sampling. The observed bleaching in Amphistegina further demonstrates the potential of these unicellular protists to identify stressors in coral reefs; such applications should be considered in future reef-management plans.
Colominella Piriniae N. Sp.: a New Textulariid from the Pliocene Mediterranean Record
Authors: Mancin Nicoletta , Kaminski Michael A.
Published: August 2019

We formally describe a new agglutinated foraminiferal species belonging to the genus Colominella Popescu, 1998 (Textulariida) recovered in two Pliocene successions of the western Mediterranean region. The formal description of Colominella piriniae n. sp. reported here permits the known stratigraphical and geographical range of the genus, previously limited to the Badenian (middle Miocene) of the Paratethys, to be extended into the Pliocene of the Mediterranean. The present work demonstrates the importance of microstructural studies performed on sectioned specimens in taxonomic assignments and reviews.
Assessment of the Effect of Increasing Temperature On the Ecology and Assemblage Structure of Modern Planktic Foraminifers in the Caribbean and Surrounding Seas
Authors: Jentzen Anna , Schönfeld Joachim , Schiebel Ralf
Published: August 2019

Habitat patterns of subtropical and tropical planktic foraminifers in the Caribbean Sea were obtained from plankton samples collected in spring 2009 and 2013. The spatial distribution in surface waters (3.5 m water depth) and depth habitat patterns (surface to 400 m) of 33 species were compared with prevailing water-mass conditions (temperature, salinity, and chlorophyll-a concentration) and planktic foraminiferal test assemblages in surface sediments. Distribution patterns indicate a significant relationship with seawater temperature and trophic conditions. A reduction in standing stocks was observed close to the Orinoco River plume and in the Gulf of Paria, associated with high turbidity and concomitant low surface-water salinity. In contrast, a transient mesoscale patch of high chlorophyll concentration in the eastern Caribbean Sea was associated with higher standing stocks in near surface waters, including high abundances of Globigerinita glutinata and Neogloboquadrina dutertrei. Globorotalia truncatulinoides mainly lives close to the seasonal pycnocline and can be linked to winter conditions indicated by lower sea-surface temperatures (SSTs) of ∼20°C. Globigerinoides sacculifer and Globoturborotalita rubescens were associated with oligotrophic conditions in the pelagic Caribbean Sea during early spring and showed a synodic lunar reproduction cycle. The live assemblages in the water column from 2009 and 2013 were similar to those reported in earlier studies from the 1960s and 1990s and to assemblages of tests in the surface sediments. Minor differences in faunal proportions were attributed to seasonal variability and environmental differences at the local scale. An exception was the low relative abundance of Globigerinoides ruber in the Caribbean Sea in 2009 compared to surface sediment samples and plankton net samples collected in the 1960s and 1990s. Decreasing abundance of Gs. ruber white in the Caribbean Sea may be associated with increasing SSTs over past decades and changes in nutrient flux and primary production.
Ilerdian–cuisian Alveolinids from the Western Alborz and Eastern Iran Zones: Systematic and Biostratigraphic Implications
Authors: Hadi Mehdi , Vahidinia Mohamad , Abbassi Nasrollah
Published: August 2019

The alveolinid taxa, found in three stratigraphic sections of Eocene shallow-marine successions in the western Alborz (Baghdareh and Gheynarjeh sections) and eastern Iran (Chenesht section) regions, have been studied to determine their systematics and biostratigraphy for the first time. The rich alveolinid assemblages in these regions are correlated with coeval faunas (in shallow benthic zones) of the Tethyan province. The 29 species of alveolinids identified include: Glomalveolina lepidula, Alveolina ellipsoidalis, A. moussoulensis, A. subpyrenaica, A. aff. sakaraensis, A. tumida, A. decipiens, A. pisiformis, A. aragonensis, A. laxa, A. ilerdensis, A. rotundata, A. gr. guidonis, A. elliptica nuttalli, A. citrea, A. cf. citrea, A. cf. rugosa, A. cf. distefanoi, A. cf. montanarii, A. cremae, A. gr. cremae, A. cf. minuta, A. canavarii, A. oblonga, A. decastroi, A. aff. haymanensis, A. bayburtensis, A. frumentiformis, and A. aff. palermitana. On the basis of their distribution ranges, five Tethyan foraminiferal biozones have been recorded from the middle Ilerdian and Cuisian (SBZ7–8 and SBZ10–12) sedimentary successions. The data imply a close affinity between the studied area and other localities in the western Tethyan province.
Prevalence of Porcine Pseudorabies Virus and Its Coinfection Rate in Heilongjiang Province in China from 2013 to 2018
Authors: Zhou Han , Pan Yan , Liu Mengda , Han Zifeng
Published: August 2019

Background

Pseudorabies (PR) is a highly contagious disease affecting a wide range of animals worldwide, which causes great annual economic losses in China. In this study, a total number of 18815 serum samples and 1589 tissue samples were tested by ELISA and PCR, which were collected from 311 intensive pig farms (≥350 sows) located in eight cities in Heilongjiang province.

Results

Overall, 16.3% and 84.5% serum samples were positive for gE- and gB-specified ELISA, respectively. 17.8% of tissue samples were shown as PCR positive for PRV. The co-infection rates of PRV with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), and classical swine fever virus (CSFV) were measured. The rate of PRV co-infected with PRRSV was 36.0% followed by 12.9% with PCV2 and 1.8% with CSFV, respectively.

Conclusions

These results clearly demonstrate PRV prevalence and its coinfection rate in Heilongjiang province indicating high PR endemic in pig farms in this region. This study provides data for further epidemiological investigations and a reference for developing PRV control strategies in this region and in China.
Level and timing of Implanon discontinuation and associated factors among women who used Implanon in Andabet District, public health facilities, North-West Ethiopia, 2017
Authors: Dagnew Gizachew Worku , Gelaw Yared Mulu , Asresie Melash Belachew , Anteneh Zelalem Alamrew
Published: August 2019

Abstract
Background: Implanon discontinuation is unacceptably high in developing countries, including Ethiopia; furthermore there is an observed problem of high unintended pregnancy rate after method discontinuation this might stride to program failure. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the level and determinants of Implanon discontinuation among women who used Implanon in Adabet district, public health facilities, North-West Ethiopia, 2017.
Methods: Facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 537 women, from Feb.03 to April 28, 2017, by face to face interview. Systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study subjects. The collected data were entered into Epi Info- version 7 then exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Both descriptive and analytical statistical analysis was computed. On multi-variable binary logistics regression, p-value and odds ratio (AOR) with 95%Ci was used to showing statistical association with the outcome variable.
Results: In this study, 36.9% of Implanon users were discontinued the method before the intended time period. Among those women who discontinue the method 85.9% of them were discontinued before two years of Implanon insertion. Women who had no live child at the time of Implanon insertion[AOR=2.17,95%CI:1.25-3.77], didn’t received pre-insertion counseling on potential side effects [AOR=1.85,95%CI: 1.15-2.97], developed side effect secondary to Implanon insertion [AOR=5.17,95%CI:3.18-8.40], received appointment follow-up [AOR=0.23,95%CI:0.13-0.41], and not satisfied by the service provided [AOR=5.40,95%CI:3.04-9.57] were statistically associated with Implanon discontinuation.
Conclusions: level of Implanon discontinuation before its intended period was high. Hence, to increase Implanon continuation rate; provide pre-insertion counseling including its possible side effects, improve client’s service satisfaction and strength appointment follow-up for Implanon users should be made.
Asymptomatic pharyngeal carriage rate of Streptococcus pyogenes, its associated factors and antibiotic susceptibility pattern among school children in Hawassa town, southern Ethiopia
Authors: Anja Asrat , Beyene Getenet , S/mariam Zewudineh , DAKA DERESSE
Published: August 2019

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the asymptomatic pharyngeal carriage rate of S. pyogenes, antimicrobial pattern and related risk factors among school children in Hawassa, Southern Ethiopia.

Results

Out of 287school children’s screened, 35(12.2%) were colonized with S. pyogenes. The carriage rate was significantly associated with factors such as sex (Female p=0.013) occupational status of mother (p=0.002), lower income source (500-900ETB, 1000-1500ETB) (p=0.001, and p=0.042), history of hospitalization (p=0.00) and residence of the children (p=0.002). High level resistant to tetracycline and low level to Vancomycine were observed, while penicillin, Amoxicillin, Erythromycin, Chloramphenicol, and Ceftriaxone were found to be effective.
Scalp acupuncture treatment for motor dysfunction in children with cerebral palsy: study protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled Trial
Authors: Wang Jun , Shi Wei , Khiati Dhiaedin , Shi Bingpei , Shi Xiaojuan , Luo Dandan , Wang Yin , Deng Rencai , Huang Huayu , Li Jian , Yan Weili , Yang Hong
Published: August 2019

Abstract
Background: Scalp acupuncture has shown a remarkable treatment efficacy on motor dysfunction in children with cerebral palsy, especially when performed on the motor area of Jiao’s scalp acupuncture, which is the most widely used treatment. However, previous studies have summarized that the clinical curative effect of acupuncture treatment for children with cerebral palsy remains uncertain. Meanwhile, no randomized controlled trials on scalp acupuncture have been performed. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of scalp acupuncture for motor dysfunction in children with cerebral palsy.

Methods/design: This is an assessor and analyst blinded, randomized controlled trial. One hundred cerebral palsy patients with motor dysfunction meeting the inclusion criteria will be allocated by a 1:1 ratio into either an acupuncture treatment group or a control group. Cerebral palsy in the control group will receive conventional rehabilitation treatment, whereas a combination of scalp acupuncture and conventional rehabilitation treatment will be applied to the acupuncture group. Thirty-six treatment sessions will be performed over a 12-week period. The Gross Motor Function Measure and the Fine Motor Function Measure Scale will be assessed as the primary outcome measure. The Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory, and the Cerebral Palsy Quality of Life Questionnaire for Children will be selected as secondary outcome measurements. All assessments will be conducted at baseline, week 4 (treatment 12), week 8 (treatment 24), week 12 (treatment 36), and week 24 (follow-up).

Discussion: This is the first trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of scalp acupuncture for motor dysfunction in children with cerebral palsy. The results of this trial are expected to provide relevant evidence demonstrating that scalp acupuncture can be used as an effective rehabilitation treatment method for improving motor dysfunction in children with cerebral palsy.
Self-Care for Head and Neck Cancer Survivors with Lymphedema and Fibrosis: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Deng Jie , Dietrich Mary S. , Murphy Barbara
Published: August 2019

Background: Head and neck cancer (HNC) patients are at high risk for developing lymphedema and fibrosis (LEF) following cancer treatment. Once HNC patients develop LEF, they need to conduct life-long self-care to slow LEF progression and reduce associated symptom burden and functional deficits. Data demonstrate that inadequate LEF self-care may be a potentially remediable issue. The objective of this study is to explore the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of an Information-Motivation-Behavioral (IMB) Skills model driven self-care program (SCP) to improve LEF management and reduce LEF-related symptom burden and functional impairments.

Methods/Design: This is a three-arm, prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial to compare: Group 1-Usual Care, Group 2-Usual Care Plus LEF-SCP, and Group 3 - Usual Care Plus LEF-SCP Plus Follow-Up. Participants will be HNC survivors aged > 18 years of age, who meet predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. A sample size of 75 participants is targeted. Interventions will be provided by trained staff. The study assessments for all groups will take place at five points: study entry then 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-month post-enrollment. Outcome measures include: 1) feasibility (barriers to implementation, safety, and satisfaction) of the proposed intervention; 2) self-efficacy and adherence to self-care; and 3) preliminary efficacy (LEF progression, symptom burden, and functional status) of the proposed intervention.

Discussion: This will be the first study to evaluate the feasibility of a LEF-SCP in the HNC population and its impact on self-efficacy and adherence. Furthermore, it will evaluate the potential benefit of routine follow-up on adherence and fidelity to the self-care protocol. We expect that the trial will provide evidence supporting the feasibility of a LEF self-care program. In addition, we anticipate that preliminary data will support improved outcomes including increased adherence and fidelity, and decreased LEF associated symptoms.

Trial registration: This study was registered on January 22, 2017 at Clinical Trial.gov, a service of the US National Institute of Health (NCT 03030859). The URL of the trail registry record: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03030859?term=lymphedema+and+fibrosis&cond=Head+and+Neck+Cancer&cntry=US&rank=1

Keywords: Head and neck cancer, lymphedema, fibrosis, self-care, self-management, survivorship
Evaluation of the Teaching Recovery Techniques community-based intervention for unaccompanied refugee youth experiencing post-traumatic stress symptoms (Swedish UnaccomPanied yOuth Refugee Trial; SUPpORT): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Sarkadi Anna , Warner Georgina , Salari Raziye , Fängström Karin , Durbeej Natalie , Lampa Elin , Baghdasaryan Zaruhi , Osman Fatumo , Gupta Sandra , Aronsson Anna Perez , Feldman Inna , Sampaio Filipa , Ssegonja Richard , Calam Rachel , Bjarta Anna , Leiler Anna , Rondung Elisabet , Wasteson Elisabet , Oppedal Brit , Keeshin Brooks
Published: August 2019

Background

In 2015, 162 877 persons sought asylum in Sweden, 35 369 of whom were unaccompanied refugee minors (URM). Refugee children, especially URM, have often experienced traumas and are at significant risk of developing mental health problems, such as symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and anxiety, which can continue years after resettlement. The Swedish UnaccomPanied yOuth Refugee Trial (SUPpORT) aims to evaluate a community-based intervention, called ‘Teaching Recovery Techniques’ (TRT), for refugee youth experiencing PTSD symptoms.

Methods/Design

A randomised controlled trial will be conducted in which participants will be randomly allocated to one of two possible arms: the intervention arm (n = 109) will be offered the TRT programme, and the waitlist-control arm (n = 109) will receive services as usual, followed by the TRT programme around 20 weeks later. Outcome data will be collected at three points: pre-intervention (T1), post-intervention (T2; c.8 weeks after randomisation) and follow-up (T3; c.20 weeks after randomisation).

Discussion

This study will provide knowledge about the effect and efficiency of a group intervention for URM reporting symptoms of PTSD in Sweden.