bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mathematical Model and Calibration Procedure of a PSD Sensor Used in Local Positioning Systems
Authors: Rodríguez-Navarro David , Lázaro-Galilea José , Bravo-Muñoz Ignacio , Gardel-Vicente Alfredo , Domingo-Perez Francisco , Tsirigotis Georgios
Published: September 2016

Here, we propose a mathematical model and a calibration procedure for a PSD (position sensitive device) sensor equipped with an optical system, to enable accurate measurement of the angle of arrival of one or more beams of light emitted by infrared (IR) transmitters located at distances of between 4 and 6 m. To achieve this objective, it was necessary to characterize the intrinsic parameters that model the system and obtain their values. This first approach was based on a pin-hole model, to which system nonlinearities were added, and this was used to model the points obtained with the nA currents provided by the PSD. In addition, we analyzed the main sources of error, including PSD sensor signal noise, gain factor imbalances and PSD sensor distortion. The results indicated that the proposed model and method provided satisfactory calibration and yielded precise parameter values, enabling accurate measurement of the angle of arrival with a low degree of error, as evidenced by the experimental results.
A Novel 2-D Coherent DOA Estimation Method Based on Dimension Reduction Sparse Reconstruction for Orthogonal Arrays
Authors: Wang Xiuhong , Mao Xingpeng , Wang Yiming , Zhang Naitong , Li Bo
Published: September 2016

Based on sparse representations, the problem of two-dimensional (2-D) direction of arrival (DOA) estimation is addressed in this paper. A novel sparse 2-D DOA estimation method, called Dimension Reduction Sparse Reconstruction (DRSR), is proposed with pairing by Spatial Spectrum Reconstruction of Sub-Dictionary (SSRSD). By utilizing the angle decoupling method, which transforms a 2-D estimation into two independent one-dimensional (1-D) estimations, the high computational complexity induced by a large 2-D redundant dictionary is greatly reduced. Furthermore, a new angle matching scheme, SSRSD, which is less sensitive to the sparse reconstruction error with higher pair-matching probability, is introduced. The proposed method can be applied to any type of orthogonal array without requirement of a large number of snapshots and a priori knowledge of the number of signals. The theoretical analyses and simulation results show that the DRSR-SSRSD method performs well for coherent signals, which performance approaches Cramer–Rao bound (CRB), even under a single snapshot and low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) condition.
Spiking Cortical Model Based Multimodal Medical Image Fusion by Combining Entropy Information with Weber Local Descriptor
Authors: Zhang Xuming , Ren Jinxia , Huang Zhiwen , Zhu Fei
Published: September 2016

Multimodal medical image fusion (MIF) plays an important role in clinical diagnosis and therapy. Existing MIF methods tend to introduce artifacts, lead to loss of image details or produce low-contrast fused images. To address these problems, a novel spiking cortical model (SCM) based MIF method has been proposed in this paper. The proposed method can generate high-quality fused images using the weighting fusion strategy based on the firing times of the SCM. In the weighting fusion scheme, the weight is determined by combining the entropy information of pulse outputs of the SCM with the Weber local descriptor operating on the firing mapping images produced from the pulse outputs. The extensive experiments on multimodal medical images show that compared with the numerous state-of-the-art MIF methods, the proposed method can preserve image details very well and avoid the introduction of artifacts effectively, and thus it significantly improves the quality of fused images in terms of human vision and objective evaluation criteria such as mutual information, edge preservation index, structural similarity based metric, fusion quality index, fusion similarity metric and standard deviation.
D-Shaped Polarization Maintaining Fiber Sensor for Strain and Temperature Monitoring
Authors: Qazi Hummad , Mohammad Abu , Ahmad Harith , Zulkifli Mohd
Published: September 2016

A D-shaped polarization-maintaining fiber (PMF) as fiber optic sensor for the simultaneous monitoring of strain and the surrounding temperature is presented. A mechanical end and edge polishing system with aluminum oxide polishing film is utilized to perform sequential polishing on one side (lengthwise) of the PMF in order to fabricate a D-shaped cross-section. Experimental results show that the proposed sensor has high sensitivity of 46 pm/µε and 130 pm/°C for strain and temperature, respectively, which is significantly higher than other recently reported work (mainly from 2013) related to fiber optic sensors. The easy fabrication method, high sensitivity, and good linearity make this sensing device applicable in various applications such as health monitoring and spatial analysis of engineering structures.
Decoupling Principle Analysis and Development of a Parallel Three-Dimensional Force Sensor
Authors: Zhao Yanzhi , Jiao Leihao , Weng Dacheng , Zhang Dan , Zheng Rencheng
Published: September 2016

In the development of the multi-dimensional force sensor, dimension coupling is the ubiquitous factor restricting the improvement of the measurement accuracy. To effectively reduce the influence of dimension coupling on the parallel multi-dimensional force sensor, a novel parallel three-dimensional force sensor is proposed using a mechanical decoupling principle, and the influence of the friction on dimension coupling is effectively reduced by making the friction rolling instead of sliding friction. In this paper, the mathematical model is established by combining with the structure model of the parallel three-dimensional force sensor, and the modeling and analysis of mechanical decoupling are carried out. The coupling degree (ε) of the designed sensor is defined and calculated, and the calculation results show that the mechanical decoupling parallel structure of the sensor possesses good decoupling performance. A prototype of the parallel three-dimensional force sensor was developed, and FEM analysis was carried out. The load calibration and data acquisition experiment system are built, and then calibration experiments were done. According to the calibration experiments, the measurement accuracy is less than 2.86% and the coupling accuracy is less than 3.02%. The experimental results show that the sensor system possesses high measuring accuracy, which provides a basis for the applied research of the parallel multi-dimensional force sensor.
The Effect of Assistive Anchor-Like Grousers on Wheeled Rover Performance over Unconsolidated Sandy Dune Inclines
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmad , Aoshima Shinichi , Shiroma Naoji , Fukuoka Yasuhiro
Published: September 2016

Typical rovers with wheels equipped with conventional grousers are prone to getting stuck in unconsolidated sandy dune inclines as the wheels tend to sink into the sand. This phenomenon is caused by the motion of the grouser through the sand during the latter half of the rotation, in which the grouser pushes the sand from underneath the wheel upwards and towards the backside of the wheel. This creates a space that the wheel can sink into. To minimize sand movement and subsequent sinkage, we propose the concept of using an “assistive grouser”, which is attached to the side of a conventional rover wheel. The assistive grouser is designed to be able to autonomously maintain a uniform angle relative to the rover body independent of the rotation of the wheels. Rotating the wheel causes the assistive grousers to automatically penetrate into the sand slope surface at a constant angle of attack, thereby acting as an anchor and providing traction for the wheel. Maintaining a uniform grouser angle as opposed to a rotating motion also assists in extracting the grouser out of the sand without moving the sand towards the back of the wheel. Moreover, the angle of the assistive grousers is held constantly by a single dedicated motor, meaning that the angle of the assistive grousers can be optimized to provide the least amount of sinkage for each slope angle. The experimental results showed that for slope angles of 0–30 degrees, the rover equipped with the proposed assistive grousers experienced significantly less sinkage and consumed less current compared to the rover equipped with conventional grousers.
Using Crowdsourced Trajectories for Automated OSM Data Entry Approach
Authors: Basiri Anahid , Amirian Pouria , Mooney Peter
Published: September 2016

The concept of crowdsourcing is nowadays extensively used to refer to the collection of data and the generation of information by large groups of users/contributors. OpenStreetMap (OSM) is a very successful example of a crowd-sourced geospatial data project. Unfortunately, it is often the case that OSM contributor inputs (including geometry and attribute data inserts, deletions and updates) have been found to be inaccurate, incomplete, inconsistent or vague. This is due to several reasons which include: (1) many contributors with little experience or training in mapping and Geographic Information Systems (GIS); (2) not enough contributors familiar with the areas being mapped; (3) contributors having different interpretations of the attributes (tags) for specific features; (4) different levels of enthusiasm between mappers resulting in different number of tags for similar features and (5) the user-friendliness of the online user-interface where the underlying map can be viewed and edited. This paper suggests an automatic mechanism, which uses raw spatial data (trajectories of movements contributed by contributors to OSM) to minimise the uncertainty and impact of the above-mentioned issues. This approach takes the raw trajectory datasets as input and analyses them using data mining techniques. In addition, we extract some patterns and rules about the geometry and attributes of the recognised features for the purpose of insertion or editing of features in the OSM database. The underlying idea is that certain characteristics of user trajectories are directly linked to the geometry and the attributes of geographic features. Using these rules successfully results in the generation of new features with higher spatial quality which are subsequently automatically inserted into the OSM database.
Optimal Solar Power System for Remote Telecommunication Base Stations: A Case Study Based on the Characteristics of South Korea’s Solar Radiation Exposure
Authors: Alsharif Mohammed , Kim Jeong
Published: September 2016

This paper aims to address both the sustainability and environmental issues for cellular base stations in off-grid sites. For cellular network operators, decreasing the operational expenditures of the network and maintaining profitability are important issues. Hence, this study addresses the feasibility of a solar power system based on the characteristics of South Korean solar radiation exposure to supply the required energy to a remote cellular base station. The HOMER is used to determine the optimum size of the system components, to perform an energy production analysis, and to analyse the cost details of the project. The simulation results show that the proposed solar power system can achieve total operational expenditure savings of up to 48.6% by using sustainable and clean energy. This result means a significant long-term benefit can be achieved for cellular network operators.
Research on the Green Purchase Intentions from the Perspective of Product Knowledge
Authors: Chen Kai , Deng Ting
Published: September 2016

Based on the theory of planned behavior, the moderating effects of product knowledge on the relationships between three independent variables and green purchase intentions were explored. Independent variables included green purchase attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavior control. After that, the difference of moderating effects of product knowledge between convenience goods and shopping goods was further analyzed. The scales of the study passed the test of reliability and validity through confirmatory factor analysis, and 306 valid questionnaires were collected. The hypotheses were tested by stepwise regression analysis. The results of the study showed that product knowledge had a significant moderating effect on the relationship between three independent variables and green purchase intentions, and the explanatory power of three independent variables would decrease in the context of high product knowledge. Interesting conclusions were reached from the perspective of product classification. This study contributes to the literature by treating product knowledge as a moderating variable in the theory of planned behavior in the field of green purchase behavior and exploring from a new research angle—the perspective of product classification.
Knockdown of Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 14 (USP14) Inhibits the Proliferation and Tumorigenesis in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Zhang Jin , Zhang Danjie , Sun Liangzhang
Published: September 2016

Ubiquitin-specific protease 14 (USP14), one of three proteasome-associated deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs), plays an essential role in the development of human carcinoma. However, to the best of our knowledge, the role of USP14 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is unknown.
In the current study, we investigated the expression and role of USP14 in ESCC. Our results showed that the level of USP14 was significantly increased in ESCC tissues and cell lines. Downregulation of USP14 significantly inhibited ESCC cell proliferation and ESCC tumor growth in nude mice.
Downregulation of USP14 also suppressed the migration/invasion in ESCC cells. Mechanically, downregulation of USP14 decreased the protein expression levels of β-catenin, cyclin D1, and c-Myc in ESCC cells. In conclusion, our study shows that USP14 plays an important role in the progression
and metastasis of ESCC. Therefore, these data suggest that USP14 may be a potentially useful therapeutic strategy for the treatment of ESCC.
Development of a Method to Estimate and Predict Beach Visitation
Authors: Morgan Damian
Published: September 2016

Beaches are important tourist attractions in many countries. To plan and manage coastal zones, authorities require knowledge about beach visitations. However, current procedures lack accuracy and coverage. To address this, a method to estimate the total beach visitor population was
tested for a selected coastal strip over a specified time period, based on directly observed daily visitor counts. Visitor count data were then used to model readily observable weather and location factors predicting daily beach visitations at the peak-use period. Further application of the
novel method will inform authorities with crucial and pertinent data to manage natural coastal visitor attractions.
Measurement of DNA Length Changes upon CpG Hypermethylation by Microfluidic Molecular Stretching
Authors: Onoshima Daisuke , Kawakita Naoko , Takeshita Daiki , Niioka Hirohiko , Yukawa Hiroshi , Miyake Jun , Baba Yoshinobu
Published: September 2016

Abnormal DNA methylation in CpG-rich promoters is recognized as a distinct molecular feature of precursor lesions to cancer. Such unintended methylation can occur during in vitro differentiation of stem cells. It takes place in a subset of genes during the differentiation or expansion of stem cell derivatives under general culture conditions, which may need to be monitored in future cell transplantation studies. Here we demonstrate a microfluidic device for investigating morphological length changes in DNA methylation. Arrayed polymer chains of single DNA molecules were fluorescently observed by parallel trapping and stretching in the micro-fluidic channel. This observational study revealed that the shortened DNA length is due to the increased rigidity of the methylated DNA molecule. The trapping rate of the device for DNA molecules was substantially unaffected by changes in the CpG methylation.
Enhanced Adipogenic Differentiation of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in an in vitro Microenvironment: The Preparation of Adipose-Like Microtissues Using a Three-Dimensional Culture
Authors: Miyamoto Yoshitaka , Ikeuchi Masashi , Noguchi Hirofumi , Yagi Tohru , Hayashi Shuji
Published: September 2016

The application of stem cells for cell therapy has been extensively studied in recent years. Among the various types of stem cells, human adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ASCs) can be obtained in large quantities with relatively few passages, and they possess a stable quality. ASCs can differentiate into a number of cell types, such as adipose cells and ectodermal cells. We therefore focused on the in vitro microenvironment required for such differentiation and attempted to induce the differentiation of human stem cells into microtissues using a microelectromechanical system. We first evaluated the adipogenic differentiation of human ASC spheroids in a three-dimensional (3D) culture. We then created the in vitro microenvironment using a 3D combinatorial TASCL device and attempted to induce the adipogenic differentiation of human ASCs. The differentiation of human ASC spheroids cultured in maintenance medium and those cultured in adipocyte differentiation medium was evaluated via Oil red O staining using lipid droplets based on the quantity of accumulated triglycerides. The differentiation was confirmed in both media, but the human ASCs in the 3D cultures contained higher amounts of triglycerides than those in the 2D cultures. In the short culture period, greater adipogenic differentiation was observed in the 3D cultures than in the 2D cultures. The 3D culture using the TASCL device with adipogenic differentiation medium promoted greater differentiation of human ASCs into adipogenic lineages than either a 2D culture or a culture using a maintenance medium. In summary, the TASCL device created a hospitable in vitro microenvironment and may therefore be a useful tool for the induction of differentiation in 3D culture. The resultant human ASC spheroids were “adipose-like microtissues” that formed spherical aggregation perfectly and are expected to be applicable in regenerative medicine as well as cell transplantation.
Isolated coastal populations of Tilia americana var. caroliniana persist long‐term through vegetative growth
Authors: Evans Jonathan P. , Morris Ashley B.
Published: September 2016

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Sprouting in woody plant species allows for the long‐term persistence of small, isolated populations experiencing changing environments and can preserve genetic diversity in these populations despite the infrequent recruitment of sexually produced individuals. We examined demographic data collected over a 10‐yr period for Tilia americana var. caroliniana populations in the context of genetic structure as an empirical case study of this concept.

METHODS:

Two back‐barrier islands on the Georgia coast of the United States were completely censused for Tilia americana var. caroliniana. Recruitment, growth, and mortality of all stems were tracked over 10 yr. All genets were genotyped using eight nuclear microsatellite loci to assess population genetic structure among sampled stems and among populations in the region.

KEY RESULTS:

The two island populations differed in their ability to establish seedlings despite having similar patterns in flowering frequency. Seedling mortality was high throughout the 10 yr, and cycling of ramets within genets was common. Long‐term recruitment in this system appears to be primarily a result of vegetative growth via basal sprouts. Genetic structure was limited, both between islands and among populations in the region.

CONCLUSIONS:

Long‐lived woody species that persist by vegetative reproduction may unexpectedly influence regional forest responses to climate change, particularly on the trailing edge of a species’ distribution.
Application of heterocyclic aldehydes as components in Ugi–Smiles couplings
Authors: Mason Katelynn M , Meyers Michael S , Fox Abbie M , Luesse Sarah B
Published: September 2016

Efficient one-pot Ugi–Smiles couplings are reported for the use of furyl-substituted aldehyde components. In the presence of these heterocyclic aldehydes, reactions tolerated variations in amine components and led to either isolated N-arylamide Ugi–Smiles adducts or N-arylepoxyisoindolines, products of tandem Ugi–Smiles Diels–Alder cyclizations, in moderate yields. A thienyl-substituted aldehyde was also a competent component for Ugi–Smiles adduct formation.
Comparison of the Abbott RealTime HCV and Roche COBAS Ampliprep/COBAS TaqMan HCV Assays for the Monitoring of Sofosbuvir-Based Therapy
Authors: Ogawa Eiichi , Furusyo Norihiro , Murata Masayuki , Shimizu Motohiro , Toyoda Kazuhiro , Hotta Taeko , Uchiumi Takeshi , Hayashi Jun
Published: September 2016

Background

On-treatment HCV kinetics play an invaluable role in evaluating the efficacy of interferon-based therapies. However, the importance of HCV RNA monitoring has not been well discussed concerning treatment with sofosbuvir (SOF)-based regimens, especially for the utility of the Abbott RealTime HCV (ART) assay.

Methods

This study consisted of 151 patients infected with HCV genotype-1 or -2, including patients with prior treatment-experience or cirrhosis. HCV genotype-1 patients were treated with SOF/ledipasvir and genotype-2 patients with SOF/ribavirin, both for 12 weeks. Serial measurements of HCV RNA were performed with both the ART and COBAS AmpliPrep/COBAS TaqMan v2.0 (CAP/ CTM) assays simultaneously at weeks 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 of treatment.

Results

The rates of HCV RNA target not detected (TND) by ART were significantly lower than those by CAP/CTM between weeks 2 and 12 (end of treatment [EOT]), irrespective of prior treatment-experience or cirrhosis. 11 (11.6%) genotype-1 and 8 (14.3%) genotype-2 patients did not achieve HCV RNA TND by ART at EOT, in contrast to all having HCV RNA TND by CAP/CTM; however, all achieved sustained virological response. The time at which HCV RNA became TND or unquantifiable was not associated with treatment outcome by either the ART or CAP/CTM assay.

Conclusions

Over 10% of the patients continued to have detectable HCV RNA by ART at EOT, irrespective of HCV genotype, prior treatment-experience and/or cirrhosis. However, prolonged residual HCV RNA was not associated with treatment failure.
Princípios do processo administrativo federal e a formalidade dos atos processuais: Uma discussão com foco no desenvolvimento
Authors: Cury-Mendes Camila Capucho
Published: September 2016

As boas práticas da Administração Pública sempre foram uma constante naquilo em que se refere aos direitos do administrado. Tanto é assim que a doutrina especializada se preocupa constantemente em desenvolver estudos científicos, os quais procuram traduzir a importância da obediência a normas e princípios que regem o Direito Administrativo como um todo. Assim, é imprescindível que sejam observados os seguintes princípios: legalidade, que é o balizador maior da Administração Pública, em que o gestor público somente vai poder atuar segundo o que a lei prega. A finalidade, que é o princípio que vai orientar a prática de atos administrativos, que objetivam o bem comum dos cidadãos. No princípio da motivação, o administrador público vai demonstrar as suas razões de fato e de direito para a consecução do interesse público. Por meio dos princípios da ampla defesa e do contraditório, o administrado tem a chance de falar nos autos do processo, expondo as suas defesas e as suas razões, diante de uma situação em específico. A razoável duração do processo é o princípio o qual garante aos litigantes a atuação adequada da administração pública, de modo a gastar o tempo necessário para o esclarecimento de uma situação e, finalmente, o princípio da formalidade dos atos processuais busca também uma forma de garantia aos cidadãos, de que a administração pública via obedecer aos ritos e formas previstos em lei para o desenvolvimento de um processo administrativo. A observância e a obediência a tais princípios, elencados como os mais relevantes para a prática administrativa, evita a crescente anulação dos processos administrativos que tramitam nas instituições públicas brasileiras. A observância de tais princípios busca a garantia de uma boa gestão pública para os administrados.
Crenças e valores sobre o trabalho docente a partir da representação discente
Authors: Tozetto Susana Soares
Published: September 2016

Este artigo discute e analisa o conceito de trabalho docente, tendo como referências os resultados de uma pesquisa empírica. O campo de estudo envolveu o curso de Pedagogia de uma Universidade pública do Paraná. Os sujeitos da pesquisa foram um grupo de alunas do curso. A investigação possibilitou analisar a percepção que as acadêmicas têm sobre o conceito do trabalho realizado pelo professor no espaço de sala de aula. O desvelamento da conceituação das acadêmicas registrou marcas da complexidade do trabalho docente e a responsabilidade do curso de formação ao outorgarem aos seus formandos a possibilidade da condução do processo de ensino e de aprendizagem. A partir da perspectiva histórica, reassaltamos alguns traços que marcam a profissão de professor e seu trabalho.
A educação em saúde nos currículos de formação de professores
Authors: Schwingel Tatiane Cristina Possel Greter , Araújo Maria Cristina Pansera de , Boff Eva Terezinha de Oliveira
Published: September 2016

As pesquisas produzidas nos meios científicos, nos últimos anos, a respeito da Educação para a Saúde têm mostrado a sua reconhecida importância na formação docente. No entanto, ainda é uma temática que precisa ser compreendida. Considerando a relevância do tema, o objetivo deste trabalho é identificar e analisar as abordagens de Saúde contidas em trabalhos científicos que discutem a Educação para a Saúde nos currículos de formação de professores. A preocupação crescente com a formação profissional docente foi o ponto de partida para este estudo. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, descritiva e interpretativa, realizada nos periódicos, dissertações e teses contidas no Portal da Capes, no período de 2005 a 2015.  A seleção dos textos foi realizada com o descritor Educação em Saúde nos currículos, que permitiu identificar 55 textos. A análise possibilitou identificar que as matrizes curriculares que discutem a temática da Saúde apresentam uma visão contraditória ao descrito nos documentos oficiais do ensino e de caráter fortemente biologista, o que leva a formação de profissionais com concepções mais individualistas e sem fazer reflexão sobre a importância de coletivos de modo a estabelecer relações com o social e o cultural.
O processo de formação continuada em serviço no município de Fortaleza
Authors: Zientarski Clarice , De Lima Maria Aires , Freire Perla Almeida Rodrigues
Published: September 2016

Este trabalho busca conhecer as ações da Secretaria Municipal de Educação para a formação de professores em serviço, a partir de pesquisa com abordagem quali-quantitativa, fundamentada em entrevistas semiestruturadas e questionários, realizada com trinta professores de cinco escolas do município de Fortaleza, no intuito de identificar se estas formações cooperam para o processo de democratização da escola pública. Para tanto, fez-se um estudo documental e bibliográfico a partir da legislação e de autores que tratam desses assuntos. Concluiu-se que as formações não abordam a gestão democrática e não contribuem com a compreensão da escola como um coletivo escolar, tendo em vista a forma como são realizadas, a ausência de um aporte teórico, por serem realizadas fora das escolas, sem perspectiva acadêmica e científica, resultando na fragmentação do trabalho docente.
Necessidades formativas e condições de trabalho: desafios dos professores iniciantes em uma universidade pública
Authors: Teles Nayana Cristina
Published: September 2016

Este estudo se propõe a investigar as condições de trabalho e as necessidades formativas de professores dos cursos de licenciatura que estão iniciando sua trajetória docente no ensino superior. Foram entrevistados dois professores de uma universidade pública federal. Os principais resultados apontam que o processo de inserção profissional dos docentes não foi acompanhado de ação institucional; sua atuação está amparada nas representações sobre a docência construídas ao longo da trajetória acadêmica e reproduzidas de forma acrítica; e as necessidades formativas, quando percebidas, estão dissociadas do processo ensino-aprendizagem dos estudantes. Daí concluirmos a necessidade de programas de inserção à docência e de formação continuada institucionalizados e direcionados aos professores.
Contribuições da Língua de Sinais para o desenvolvimento profissional dos docentes surdos: condições de trabalho e protagonismo profissional
Authors: Proença Filietaz Marta Rejane
Published: September 2016

RESUMO  Esta pesquisa tem como objetivo analisar como a Língua de Sinais contribui para constituição do desenvolvimento profissional do docente surdo. A metodologia escolhida para a realização deste estudo buscou os pressupostos teóricos pautados na pesquisa com abordagem qualitativa. Para tal, foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas, passadas por um processo de tradução da Libras para o português escrito, com seis docentes surdos responsáveis pela disciplina de Libras em duas instituições Federais de Ensino Superior, sendo estas a Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná (UTFPR) e a Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR). O reconhecimento da Língua de Sinais como língua da comunidade surda brasileira, significa uma mudança ideológica com relação aos sujeitos surdos que passam a ser reconhecidos como diferentes e pertencentes a uma comunidade linguística minoritária, e não apenas uma mudança metodológica do ensino e aprendizagem de uma língua. Segundo os participantes desse estudo, a mobilização dos movimentos surdos na luta pelo reconhecimento de seus direitos contribuiu fortemente para novos encaminhamentos, entre eles a elaboração e a efetivação de políticas públicas voltadas para as necessidades desses sujeitos.
Editorial
Authors: Oliveira Oséias Santos de
Published: September 2016

Editorial
Evidence for Tocilizumab as a Treatment Option in Refractory Uveitis Associated with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Tappeiner Christoph , Mesquida Marina , Adán Alfredo , Anton Jordi , Ramanan Athimalaipet V. , Carreno Ester , Mackensen Friederike , Kotaniemi Kaisu , de Boer Joke H. , Bou Rosa , de Vicuña Carmen García , Heiligenhaus Arnd
Published: September 2016

Objective.

To report on experience using the anti-interleukin 6 receptor antibody tocilizumab (TCZ) to treat severe and therapy-refractory uveitis associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Methods.

Retrospective data were gathered from patients with JIA receiving TCZ treatment for uveitis. JIA and related uveitis data (disease onset, activity, structural complications, and topical and systemic antiinflammatory treatment) were evaluated at the start of TCZ (baseline) and every 3 months during TCZ therapy.

Results.

A total of 17 patients (14 women) with active uveitis were included (mean age 15.3 ± 6.9 yrs, mean followup time 8.5 mos). In all patients, uveitis had been refractory to previous topical and systemic corticosteroids, methotrexate (MTX), and other synthetic and biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, including ≥ 1 tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) inhibitor. Uveitis inactivity was achieved in 10 patients after a mean of 5.7 months of TCZ treatment (in 3 of them, it recurred during followup) and persisted in the remaining 7 patients. By using TCZ, systemic corticosteroids or immunosuppressives could be spared in 7 patients. Macular edema was present in 5 patients at baseline and improved in all of them under TCZ treatment. Arthritis was active in 11 patients at the initial and in 6 at the final followup visit.

Conclusion.

TCZ appears to represent a therapeutic option for severe JIA-associated uveitis that has been refractory to MTX and TNF-α inhibitors in selected patients. The present data indicate that inflammatory macular edema responds well to TCZ in patients with JIA-associated uveitis.
Indigenous management of palm weevil grubs (Rhynchophorus phoenicis) for rural livelihoods in Cameroon
Authors: Ayemele A.G. , Muafor F.J. , Levang P.
Published: September 2016

The present study was carried out from June to November 2014 in Obout and Ntoung areas, in the centre and east regions of Cameroon, respectively. Its aim was to determine the socio-economic contribution of the traditional exploitation of the African palm weevil grub (Rhynchophorus phoenicis) to livelihoods. One hundred and three grub collectors from eight different villages were surveyed. Furthermore, field observations were done both in the swampy raffia forests and in the villages. Results show that two methods of grub exploitation coexist in the study area: the traditional gathering with an average productivity of 35±13.2 grubs per trunk and the semi-farming system with an average productivity of 50±10.1 grubs per trunk. The daily productivity per collector varies between 389 grubs (3.59 kg) and 570 grubs (5.27 kg). Palm weevil grubs are used for food, traditional medicine, and income. Daily income from the trade of these resources varies between 15,560 Central African CFA franc (XAF) and 22,800 XAF. Therefore, professional grub collectors can reach a maximum monthly income of 456,000 XAF, contributing to 78% of the household revenue. Nevertheless, harvesting methods are very destructive to the ecosystem, as a single collector can cut down an average of 1,120 raffia trunks in the harvesting process.
Insects as food and feed: European perspectives on recent research and future priorities
Authors: Payne C.L.R. , Dobermann D. , Forkes A. , House J. , Josephs J. , McBride A. , Müller A. , Quilliam R.S. , Soares S.
Published: September 2016

This paper discusses the current state and priorities of Europe-based research on insects as food and feed, based on presentations at a workshop held in December 2015, and discussions that followed. We divide research into studies that focus on farming, health and nutrition, and those that prioritise psychological, social and political concerns. Edible insects are not necessarily universally beneficial. However, certain food insects can convert organic waste material, and provide nutrient-rich protein for humans and animals. Recent research is not concordant when trying to identify social and psychological barriers to insects as food in Europe, indicating the complexity of the issue of consumer acceptance. Innovative means of marketing insects as food include 3D printing, scientific comics, and the promotion of rural food culture in an urban setting. Edible insects are intimately connected to strong cultural and regional values, and their increasing commercialisation may empower and/or disenfranchise those who hold such values. We conclude with a discussion about the future priorities of edible insect research in Europe. We acknowledge the political nature of the ‘entomophagy’ movement. With legislative change, the insect food industry potential presents an opportunity to challenge the dynamics of current food systems. We identify the following priorities for future research: the need to better understand environmental impacts of insect procurement on both a regional and global scale, to investigate factors affecting the safety and quality of insect foods, to acknowledge the complexity of consumer acceptance, and to monitor the social and economic impacts of this growing industry.
Growth and survival of reared Cambodian field crickets (Teleogryllus testaceus) fed weeds, agricultural and food industry by-products
Authors: Miech P. , Berggren Å. , Lindberg J.E. , Chhay T. , Khieu B. , Jansson A.
Published: September 2016

This study evaluated survival and growth of Cambodian field crickets (Teleogryllus testaceus) during captivity when fed a set of local weed species, agricultural and food industry by-products. Wild individuals were caught at two locations in Cambodia, kept in pens and fed commercial chicken feed until the second generation off-spring hatched. First larval stage nymphs from this generation were collected and used in a 70-day feeding trial with one control treatment (chicken feed) and 12 experimental treatments (rice bran, cassava plant tops, water spinach, spent grain, residue from mungbean sprout production, and Alternanthera sessilis, Amaranthus spinosus, Commelina benghalensis, Cleome rutidosperma, Cleome viscosa, Boerhavia diffusa and Synedrela nodiflora). The crickets were kept in plastic cages and feed intake, weight and survival of crickets were recorded weekly. Overall survival did not differ between chicken feed and the experimental treatments with the exception of crickets fed B. diffusa, which had lower survival. From day 35 to day 49, survival on A. sessilis was also lower (P<0.05) than on chicken feed. There was no difference in weight between crickets fed chicken feed, cassava tops and C. rutidosperma. However, crickets fed A. sessilis, A. spinosus and B. diffusa weighed less than those fed chicken feed already at day 21. The feed conversion rate ranged from 1.6 to 3.9 and was ≤1.9 in crickets fed chicken feed, cassava plant tops and C. rutidosperma. Thus this study shows that it is possible, using simple means, to rear Cambodian field crickets. Cassava plant tops and C. rutidosperma both have great potential as cricket feed and the other weeds, with the exception of A. sessilis, A. spinosus and B. diffusa, agricultural and food industry by-products tested, also showed potential.
Aflibercept for Diabetic Macular Edema in Eyes Previously Treated With Ranibizumab and/or Bevacizumab May Further Improve Macular Thickness
Authors: Shah Chirag P. , Heier Jeffrey S.
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the short-term anatomic and visual outcomes after aflibercept (Eylea; Regeneron, Tarrytown, NY) in eyes with diabetic macular edema (DME) previously treated with ranibizumab (Lucentis; Genentech, South San Francisco, CA) and/or bevacizumab (Avastin; Genentech, South San Francisco, CA).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

A single-center, retrospective, noncomparative study of 30 eyes in 23 patients with DME treated with prior ranibizumab and/or bevacizumab before switching to aflibercept.

RESULTS:

Eyes received an average of 16 prior injections (range: three injections to 31 injections; median: 17 injections). The mean central subfoveal thickness (CST) improved from 453 µm at the time of first anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injection (range: 304 µm to 686 µm; median: 429 µm), to 374 µm at the time of the switch to aflibercept (range: 267 µm to 547 µm; median: 361 µm;
P
= .02), to 332 µm after the first aflibercept injection (range: 242 µm to 545 µm; median: 318 µm;
P
< .001). Visual acuity improved after switching to aflibercept at the first follow-up visit (logMAR 0.40 [Snellen equivalent 20/50]) to logMAR 0.35 (Snellen equivalent 20/45) (
P
= .044).

CONCLUSIONS:

In eyes with persistent DME treated with ranibizumab and/or bevacizumab, switching to aflibercept may further improve macular thickness. Given the cost difference between the three drugs, a randomized trial evaluating a stepwise approach may be worthwhile.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2016;47:836–839.]
Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography of Chorioretinal Diseases
Authors: Novais Eduardo A. , Roisman Luiz , de Oliveira Paulo Ricardo Chaves , Louzada Ricardo N. , Cole Emily D. , Lane Mark , Filho Marco Bonini , Romano André , de Oliveira Dias João Rafael , Regatieri Caio V. , Chow David , Belfort Rubens , Rosenfeld Philip , Waheed Nadia K. , Ferrara Daniela , Duker Jay S.
Published: September 2016

Fluorescein angiography (FA) and indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) have been the gold standard for the evaluation of retinal and choroidal vasculature in the last three decades and have revolutionized the diagnosis of retinal and choroidal vascular diseases. The advantage of these imaging modalities lies in their ability to document retinal and choroidal vasculature through the dynamic assessment of contrast transit over time in the intravascular and extravascular spaces. However, disadvantages include the absence of depth resolution, blurring of details by contrast leakage, and the inability to selectively evaluate different levels of the retinal and choroidal microvasculature. In addition, these angiographic methods require intravenous dye, which may cause adverse reactions such as nausea, vomiting, and rarely, anaphylaxis.

Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is a noninvasive imaging technique that, in contrast to dye-based angiography, is faster and depth-resolved, allowing in some cases for more precise evaluation of the vascular plexuses of the retina and choroid. The method has been demonstrated in the assessment of various vascular diseases such as venous occlusions, diabetic retinopathy, macular neovascularization, and others. Limitations of this imaging modality include a small registered field of view and the inability to visualize leakage and dye transit over time. It is also subject to a variety of artifacts, including those generated by blinking and eye movement during image acquisition. However, more than an alternative for FA and ICGA, OCTA is bringing new insights to our understanding of retinal and choroidal vascular structure and is changing fundamental paradigms in the clinical management of pathologic conditions.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2016;47:848–861.]
Integrating Scleral Buckling, Transscleral Drainage of Subretinal Fluid, Intravitreal Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, and Laser Photocoagulation in Stage 3B Coats' Total Retinal Detachment
Authors: Huang Ying-Chen , Lai Chi-Chun , Wu Wei-Chi
Published: September 2016

The integration of quadruple therapy in a 13-year-old boy with stage 3B Coats' disease achieved retinal reattachment and visual improvement. Scleral buckling might play a role in retinal detachment in Coats' disease, although it has previously been considered insignificant. Instead of performing vitrectomy and internal drainage with a drainage hole in the retina, less-invasive procedures that do not require retinotomy appear to be beneficial in cases of advanced Coats' disease.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2016;47:865–868.]
Retinal Vasculitis in Anti-Synthetase Syndrome
Authors: Donovan Christopher P. , Pecen Paula E. , Baynes Kimberly , Ehlers Justis P. , Srivastava Sunil K.
Published: September 2016

A 31-year-old woman with a history of anti-synthetase syndrome-related myositis and interstitial lung disease presented with acute-onset blurry vision and rash on her hands and feet. Visual acuity was hand motion in her right eye and 20/40 in her left eye. Dilated fundus exam showed extensive retinal vasculitis, diffuse intraretinal hemorrhages, and subretinal fluid. Optical coherence tomography revealed significant macular thickening, and fluorescein angiography revealed vascular leakage with peripheral nonperfusion. Aggressive systemic immunosuppression was initiated, with gradual resolution of her disease during 8 months of follow-up.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2016;47:874–879.]
Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography and Vascular Perfusion Map Findings in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Li Daniel Q. , Golding John , Choudhry Netan
Published: September 2016

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly prevalent chronic sleep disorder associated with considerable systemic and ophthalmic consequences. The authors present the retinal vascular findings of a visually asymptomatic 56-year-old man clinically diagnosed with OSA using swept-source optical coherence tomography and vascular perfusion mapping.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2016;47:880–884.]
Homophobia, heteronormativity, and slash fan fiction
Authors: Callis April S.
Published: September 2016

I analyze the relationship between homophobia/heteronormativity and slash fan fiction. Through reading and coding almost 6,000 pages of Kirk/Spock fan fiction written from 1978 to 2014, I illuminate shifts in how normative gender and sexuality are portrayed by K/S authors. Writers of K/S, while ostensibly writing about the 23rd century, consciously or unconsciously include cultural norms from the 20th and 21st centuries. Thus, slash becomes a lens through which readers can view a decrease in both homophobia and heteronormativity in US culture over the past several decades.
selling of a story: Sherlock's Victorian excursion
Authors: Rebaza Claudia
Published: September 2016

The BBC's Sherlock (2010–) has from its beginning played with canon and audience response. Its alternate universe episode in Victorian England reaches an apex of metatextuality with consideration of its role as both commercial entity and participant in popular culture.
La incidencia de la calificación energética sobre los valores residenciales: un análisis para el mercado plurifamiliar en Barcelona
Authors: Marmolejo Duarte C.
Published: September 2016

Este artículo estudia de forma pionera en España la incidencia de la calificación energética sobre los valores residenciales. Para ello se analizan, mediante un modelo hedónico, datos de precios de venta de la Barcelona metropolitana. Los resultados sugieren que pasar de una calificación G a una A incrementa el valor en un 5,11 %, equivalente de media a 16,07 euros/m2/escalón (aunque existe un extra para las viviendas A). Este sobrevalor es, en términos relativos, muy inferior al de otras ciudades europeas y, en términos absolutos, menor que los sobrecostes relativos una mejora en la calificación energética reportados previamente. Además, la enorme ausencia de información energética en la comercialización parece responder a una estrategia para ocultar la pobre calificación del parque edificado y agravar la asimetría informativa. Todo junto ensombrece la eficacia de la Directiva Europea de Eficiencia Energética tal como ha sido transpuesta en nuestro país, y clama por su rediseño.
CREATING LIVABLE INFRASTRUCTURE: THE CONNECTOAKLAND VISION TO RECONNECT NEIGHBORHOODS AND CONNECT CITIES THROUGH FREEWAY REMOVAL
Authors: Faulkner Andrew , Fearn Jonathan , Sensenig Chris , Stokle Brian
Published: September 2016

INTRODUCTION

Throughout the second half of the 20th Century, our nation's cities were marred by the onslaught of unsustainable suburbanization and the expansion of limited access highways that ripped through urban centers and divided communities within them. Paired with systematic disinvestment from redlining and white flight, these forces combined to create lasting physical, social and economic hardships in cities across the US. Over the last 20 years, cities have rebounded in America and new patterns of thought focused on livability, walkability and urban form have started to sprout: from the Big-Dig in Boston to Octavia Boulevard and the Embarcadero in San Francisco, cities are reassessing the value of highways that solely move automobiles through cities, and have started to focus on how these pieces of infrastructure impact the daily lives and economic interests of a their residents and visitors.

In Oakland, California, through the efforts of ConnectOAKLAND, the city is taking up the mantle of this new pattern of thought and is beginning the planning process to reconnect West Oakland to Downtown by transforming an underutilized freeway (I-980) into a multi-modal transportation corridor that reestablishes the historic urban grid. The project's dual benefit will reconnect two of Oakland's historic neighborhoods while better connecting Oakland along with the entire East Bay to San Francisco, San Jose and Silicon Valley through the incorporation of a second transbay tunnel for Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), commuter rail (Caltrain), and high speed rail (HSR). This article will explore the ConnectOAKLAND vision for I-980 as a case study for current and future patterns of highway removal, and as a part of the national movement to rethink the role of urban highways and holistically re-envision the US transportation infrastructure.