bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flora of Espírito Santo: Psidium (Myrtaceae)
Authors: Tuler Amélia C. , Carrijo Tatiana T. , Ferreria Márcia F.S. , Peixoto Ariane L.
Published: December 2017

Abstract This study presents a floristic-taxonomic treatment of Psidium in the state of Espírito Santo, and is a result of fieldwork combined with analyses of herbarium specimens. Fourteen species of the genus were recognized in Espírito Santo state (P. brownianum, P. cattleianum, P. cauliflorum, P. guajava, P. guineense, P. longipetiolatum, P. myrtoides, P. oblongatum, P. oligospermum, P. ovale, P. rhombeum, P. rufum P. sartorianum, and Psidium sp.), accounting for about 34% of the species richness estimated for the genus in the Atlantic Rainforest biome. The species occur predominantly in lowland forests up to 700 meters above sea level. These areas are highly threatened due to urbanization of coastal areas and agricultural expansion in the state Espírito Santo. Therefore, the conservation of Psidium species in this state requires the creation of more lowland protected areas.
Uma revisão sobre a controversa classificação fisionômica da Floresta de Linhares, norte do Espírito Santo
Authors: Saiter Felipe Zamborlini , Rolim Samir Gonçalves , Jordy Filho Salim , Oliveira-Filho Ary Teixeira de
Published: December 2017

Resumo Apresentamos uma revisão das visões controversas acerca da classificação fisionômica da Floresta de Linhares, aqui definida como a floresta sobre tabuleiros costeiros que ocorre entre os rios Doce e Barra Seca, no norte do Espírito Santo. Compilamos informações sobre o clima estacional dessa região e analisamos a inter-relação das variações interanuais e da dinâmica sazonal da precipitação com atributos ecológicos da floresta. Nossas interpretações revelaram que dados mensais médios de precipitação não exprimem a realidade dos períodos biologicamente secos ano a ano e suas consequências sobre a fisionomia da vegetação. Percebemos que a Floresta de Linhares pode se manifestar como semidecídua ou perenifólia, a depender da severidade da seca em um dado período. Então, propomos que a flexibilidade do regime de renovação foliar da Floresta de Linhares deve ser considerada em sua classificação. Sugerimos classificar a floresta duplamente como estacional semidecidual nos períodos anuais ou supra-anuais caracterizados por deficit hídrico pronunciado, e como floresta estacional perenifólia nos períodos anuais ou supra-anuais sem deficit hídrico significativo.
Efeito da retroalimentação auditiva atrasada na gagueira com e sem alteração do processamento auditivo central
Authors: Picoloto Luana Altran , Cardoso Ana Cláudia Vieira , Cerqueira Amanda Venuti , Oliveira Cristiane Moço Canhetti de
Published: December 2017

RESUMO Objetivo Verificar o efeito da retroalimentação auditiva atrasada na fluência da fala de indivíduos que gaguejam, com e sem alteração do processamento auditivo central. Método Participaram 20 indivíduos com gagueira, de sete a 17 anos, divididos em dois grupos, cada um com 10 indivíduos: Grupo Gagueira com Transtorno do Processamento Auditivo (GGTPA) e Grupo Gagueira (GG) sem alteração de processamento auditivo central. Os procedimentos foram: avaliação da fluência com retroalimentação auditiva habitual (RAH) e atrasada (RAA), e avaliação da gravidade da gagueira e do processamento auditivo central (PAC). O software Fono Tools foi utilizado para provocar o atraso de 100 milissegundos na retroalimentação auditiva. O teste dos Postos Sinalizados de Wilcoxon foi utilizado na análise intragrupos, e o teste de Mann-Whitney, na análise intergrupos. Resultados A RAA ocasionou no GG redução estatisticamente significante: no escore da frequência das disfluências típicas da gagueira na análise do Instrumento de Gravidade da Gagueira, na quantidade de bloqueios e de repetições de palavras monossilábicas, e na frequência de disfluências típicas da gagueira de duração. O atraso na retroalimentação auditiva não provocou efeitos estatisticamente significantes na fluência do GGTPA, grupo dos indivíduos com gagueira com alteração do PAC. Conclusão O efeito da retroalimentação auditiva atrasada na fala de indivíduos com gagueira foi diferente nos indivíduos com e sem alteração do processamento auditivo central, pois houve melhora da fluência apenas nos indivíduos sem alteração do PAC.
Genetic variability during four cycles of recurrent selection in rice
Authors: Morais Júnior Odilon Peixoto de , Melo Patrícia Guimarães Santos , Morais Orlando Peixoto de , Colombari Filho José Manoel
Published: December 2017

Abstract: The objective of this work was to estimate genetic and phenotypic parameters among progenies of the CNA6 population of upland rice (Oryza sativa) for grain yield and plant height in four cycles of recurrent selection, in order to evaluate the genetic variability and the genotype × location interaction. The experimental data were obtained from yield trials of S0:2 progenies, which were carried out in the experimental design of Federer’s augmented blocks, without replications for progenies within each location. The effect of S0:2 progenies was significant in all cycles for grain yield and in the first three cycles for plant height, indicating the maintenance of the population’s genetic potential to generate transgressive progenies. The participation of the component of the progeny × location interaction in phenotypic variance was of high magnitude. The genetic variability of the CNA6 population of upland rice is maintained for grain yield and plant height during the four cycles of recurrent selection.
O CAPITALISMO IMATERIAL E A PRODUÇÃO DE SI, SEGUNDO ANDRÉ GORZ
Authors: Gianinazzi Willy
Published: December 2017

Ao analisar a evolução do capitalismo contemporâneo (automação, informatização, globalização), André Gorz sublinha suas consequências sociais (desemprego, precariedade, desigualdades, pobreza). Focando sua análise nas transformações do trabalho (valorização da inteligência e da imaginação) que acompanham essas mutações, ele decifra a emergência de uma inteligência coletiva de que o capitalismo tenta se apropriar, mas que se confunde com a “produção de si”, isto é, com atividades nas quais as faculdades pessoais podem se desenvolver fora do trabalho subordinado. Uma riqueza de novo tipo é criada; ela é qualitativa e fundada nos vínculos sociais de cooperação. A renda básica é concebida como uma âncora existencial transitória, que permite esse salto.
Placas cimentícias e pavers com incorporação de rejeitos da coleta seletiva do município de Blumenau, SC
Authors: Moura João Marcos Bosi Mendonça de , Reis Rafael , May Samantha , Pinheiro Ivone Gohr
Published: December 2017

Resumo Analisou-se o desempenho físico-mecânico de placas e pavers com incorporação de rejeitos da coleta seletiva do município de Blumenau, SC. Tais rejeitos são compostos de orgânicos, polímeros, papéis, vidro e têxteis, que foram reduzidos de tamanho (2,4 mm a 19,0 mm) e substituíram o agregado miúdo natural nos percentuais de 5%, 10%, 20% e 30%. Para o compósito no estado fresco verificou-se o índice de consistência, e no estado endurecido determinaram-se massa específica aparente, absorção de água e resistência à compressão. As placas foram submetidas ao ensaio de resistência à flexão e à análise de microscopia eletrônica de varredura. A massa específica aparente das placas variou de 0,8 a 1,6 g.cm-3, e dos pavers, de 1,78 a 1,84 g.cm-3. Para menores quantidades de rejeitos incorporados, os dois materiais apresentaram índices de absorção de água que satisfazem as exigências de normas correlatas. As placas apresentaram valores de resistência à compressão que variaram de 4,7 MPa a 14,6 MPa. Na flexão, os valores atingidos foram de 0,1 MPa a 1,8 MPa. Os pavers alcançaram valores de resistência à compressão entre 10,8 MPa e 18,7 MPa. Pavers com 5% de incorporação de agregados de rejeitos seriam passíveis de ser aplicáveis em calçadas e meios-fios desde que estudos futuros garantam sua durabilidade.
Sistema descentralizado individual de água não potável: a necessidade da gestão da qualidade e da quantidade
Authors: Ferreira Tiago de Vasconcelos Gonçalves , Oliveira Lúcia Helena de
Published: December 2017

Resumo A implantação de sistemas de água não potável em edifícios residenciais está crescendo, tendo em vista a redução dos níveis atuais de demanda de água potável. Esse fato vem ocorrendo mesmo sem o embasamento teórico adequado por meio de normas técnicas, regulamentos ou legislações específicas para o projeto, execução e operação de tal sistema. Nesse sentido, o objetivo deste artigo é avaliar o desempenho qualitativo e quantitativo de um sistema descentralizado individual nas etapas de operação e manutenção. O método utilizado foi o estudo de caso. Para tal, foram realizadas a caracterização do sistema e a coleta de informações de usuários. Os resultados mostram que o sistema de água não potável, além de não ter apresentado um impacto de redução no consumo de água, propiciou um surto de infecção gastrointestinal para a população do edifício, devido à falta de capacitação dos profissionais envolvidos em todas as etapas do sistema e, em especial, na etapa de operação e manutenção, o que afetou a saúde dos usuários. Conclui-se que a capacitação profissional para executar, operar e manter o sistema de água não potável é indispensável para garantir a eficiência no sistema e preservar a saúde dos usuários.
Avaliação durante operação de sistemas de água não potável em edifícios residenciais
Authors: Castilho Carolina Paula de , Oliveira Lúcia Helena de
Published: December 2017

Resumo Atualmente é observado um crescimento de iniciativas independentes para a implantação de sistemas prediais de água não potável em edifícios residenciais. Essas iniciativas contam com pouco respaldo técnico normativo, diretrizes ou legislação que orientem projetistas, executores e gestores sobre as práticas adequadas de implantação, operação e manutenção desses sistemas, o que pode colocar em risco a saúde dos usuários e o sucesso dessa tecnologia. Considerando-se que é indispensável atender às necessidades dos usuários por meio da adequação das soluções ao uso, a Avaliação Durante Operação (ADO) apresenta-se como uma ferramenta adequada para a análise da situação atual do sistema. Nesse contexto, este artigo tem como objetivo avaliar o desempenho de sistemas prediais de água não potável durante sua operação em edifícios residenciais no que se refere a projeto, execução, operação e manutenção. Para tanto foi aplicada a metodologia de ADO em seis edifícios residenciais. Os resultados mostram que a falta de capacitação técnica, de normas técnicas e de legislações específicas que orientem projetistas, executores, gestores e usuários contribui para o atual cenário, caracterizado por sistemas que operam com desempenho inferior para atender às necessidades e garantir a segurança dos usuários.
Efeito de uma onda de calor na aclimatação no curto prazo durante experimentos suportados por câmara climática
Authors: Krüger Eduardo Leite , Tamura Cintia Akemi
Published: December 2017

Resumo Estudos de conforto térmico humano em espaços abertos são de relevância para o planejamento urbano climaticamente orientado, estando relacionados à qualidade de vida em áreas urbanas. Considerando-se a frequência cada vez maior de ondas de calor nessas áreas, deve-se avaliar o efeito desses episódios na percepção térmica de citadinos. No presente estudo investigaram-se os efeitos da aclimatação no curto prazo na percepção térmica de indivíduos no espaço aberto durante episódios de onda de calor. Condições estacionárias foram garantidas por uma permanência prolongada dos participantes (n=16) em câmara climática, localizada em Karlsruhe, Alemanha, antes de sua exposição às condições externas. Foram aplicados questionários de sensação e preferência térmicas em três momentos: a) imediatamente ao sair da câmara, b) 15 minutos e c) 30 minutos após. Avaliam-se os efeitos de aclimatação na percepção térmica dos sujeitos comparativamente às condições térmicas externas, as quais são expressas em termos do índice UTCI (Universal Thermal Climate Index) e da correspondente sensação térmica dinâmica estimada DTS (Dynamic Thermal Sensation). Os resultados mostraram que, mesmo tendo as condições ao ar livre permanecido inalteradas ao longo do tempo de exposição de 30 min, os votos de percepção térmica dos sujeitos diferiram sutilmente nesse curto espaço de tempo, embora sem significância estatística. A aclimatação a onda de calor levou a maior tolerância ao calor logo após, com perda dessa aclimatação na sessão subsequente.
The influence of extraversion on emotional expression: A moderated mediation model
Authors: Wu Yanxia , Lu Jiamei , Chen Nianqu , Xiang Bihua
Published: December 2017

We developed a moderated mediation model to investigate both the mediating role of self-esteem in the relationship between extraversion and emotional expression, and the moderating effect of emotional intelligence on this mediating role, in a moderated mediation model. We used personality
and emotional expression questionnaires, and self-esteem and emotional intelligence scales to survey 2,644 Chinese college students. Results showed that there was a significant positive correlation between extraversion and emotional expression and a partial mediating role of self-esteem between
extraversion and emotional expression, and that the mediating role of self-esteem was moderated by emotional intelligence. Indirect effects were more significant in participants with high versus low emotional intelligence. Thus, the influence of extraversion on emotional expression was a moderated
mediation effect. Theoretical guidance and practical implications for the cultivation of emotional expression in college students are discussed.
MICROBIOLOGICAL MONITORING OF COMMERCIAL POULTRY MEAT SEMI-FINISHED PRODUCTS
Authors: Abdullaeva A M , Seryogin I G , Nikitchenko V E
Published: December 2017

Materials on microbiological studies of semifinished products from poultry meat (fillets, minced meat, mechanically deboned meat), made in real time in 2016-2017 are presented. Microbiological indicators of semi-finished products of various manufacturers in different seasons of the year are determined. It was revealed that 19-23% of realized avian poultry semi-finished products had increased QMAFAnM, CFU/g, while bacteria of E. coli group were isolated in 12-28% of samples, in 3-10% of samples - Salmonella bacteria, 5-14% - bacteria of genus Pseudomonas, in 12-36% - microorganisms of coccal forms, in 7-26% - clostridia, in 15-17% - lactobacillus bacteria, in 9-37% - bacteria of the genus Proteus. In some samples of semifinished products found spores molds and yeast cells. Listeria monocyto-genes in the investigated semifinished products did not reveal. The most contaminated microorganisms were minced meat and meat de-boning broilers and turkeys, compared with samples of chicken fillets. In meat raw materials having microbial contamination above 1 106 CFU/g, changes in organoleptic and physicochemical parameters were noted. Based on the data obtained, proposals have been developed to reduce microbial contamination of semi-finished products and recommendations for the most rational use of poultry meat for food or fodder purposes.
ENSINO E APRENDIZAGEM DE CONTEÚDOS CIENTÍFICOS NAS SÉRIES INICIAIS DO ENSINO FUNDAMENTAL: O SISTEMA DIGESTÓRIO
Authors: Talamoni Ana Carolina Biscalquini , Caldeira Ana Maria Andrade
Published: December 2017

Esta pesquisa investigou as concepções prévias de alunos do quarto ano do ensino fundamental acerca do sistema digestório para, a partir disto, elaborar e aplicar uma sequencia didática com o intuito de avaliar a evolução das ideias dos alunos ao longo do processo de ensino. Verificou-se que as concepções discentes reduziam o sistema digestivo a um tubo cujo principal órgão era o estômago. Após a aplicação da sequência constatou-se a evolução dos conhecimentos dos alunos tanto em termos descritivos quanto morfofuncionais indicando que estratégias didáticas elaboradas tendo em vista o nível de desenvolvimento dos alunos contribuiu na aquisição desse conhecimento científico nas séries iniciais do ensino fundamental.
Akceptacja nowych trendów konsumenckich w pokoleniach X i Y – analiza porównawcza
Authors: Burgiel Aleksandra , Sowa Izabela
Published: December 2017

W artykule przedstawiono wyniki badań dotyczących akceptacji wybranych trendów konsumenckich przez przedstawicieli generacji X i Y. Prowadzone analizy dotyczyły następujących trendów: prosumpcji, konsumpcji wspólnej (ang. collaborative consumption), konsumowania bez posiadania (ang. non-ownership consumption), showrooming’u oraz zbiorowej inteligencji (ang. collective intelligence). Przeanalizowano i porównano częstotliwości realizacji wybranych zachowań reprezentujących wyżej wymienione trendy i podjęto próbę ustalenia, czy badane pokolenia różnią się pod względem stopnia ich akceptacji. Badania bezpośrednie, będące podstawą analiz, przeprowadzono wśród 576 reprezentantów generacji X i 719 przedstawicieli pokolenia Y, za pomocą ankiety internetowej. Ich wyniki potwierdzają istnienie istotnych różnic pomiędzy konsumentami z różnych pokoleń.
Pancreatic Pericytes Support β-Cell Function in a Tcf7l2-Dependent Manner
Authors: Sakhneny Lina , Rachi Eleonor , Epshtein Alona , Guez Helen C. , Wald-Altman Shane , Lisnyansky Michal , Khalifa-Malka Laura , Hazan Adina , Baer Daria , Priel Avi , Weil Miguel , Landsman Limor
Published: December 2017

Polymorphism in TCF7L2, a component of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway, has a strong association with β-cell dysfunction and type 2 diabetes through a mechanism that has yet to be defined. β-Cells rely on cells in their microenvironment, including pericytes, for their proper function. Here, we show that Tcf7l2 activity in pancreatic pericytes is required for β-cell function. Transgenic mice in which Tcf7l2 was selectively inactivated in their pancreatic pericytes exhibited impaired glucose tolerance due to compromised β-cell function and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Inactivation of pericytic Tcf7l2 was associated with impaired expression of genes required for β-cell function and maturity in isolated islets. In addition, we identified Tcf7l2-dependent pericytic expression of secreted factors shown to promote β-cell function, including bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4). Finally, we show that exogenous BMP4 is sufficient to rescue the impaired glucose-stimulated insulin secretion of transgenic mice, pointing to a potential mechanism through which pericytic Tcf7l2 activity affects β-cells. To conclude, we suggest that pancreatic pericytes produce secreted factors, including BMP4, in a Tcf7l2-dependent manner to support β-cell function. Our findings thus propose a potential cellular mechanism through which abnormal TCF7L2 activity predisposes individuals to diabetes and implicates abnormalities in the islet microenvironment in this disease.
Analysis of Long-Term Temperature Trend as an Urban Climate Change Indicator
Authors: Subarna Dadang
Published: December 2017

Temperature plays a major role in detecting climate change brought about by urbanisation and industrialisation. Most climatic impact studies rely on changes in the average values of meteorological variables such as temperature. This paper attempts to study the temporal changes in the mean value of the air surface temperature over Jakarta city during the last century, specifically in the period 1901–2002.The data used in this study were taken from the Jakarta Climatology Station because they are of are good quality, there are extensive records and there is little missing or blank data. Statistic descriptive methods were employed, including a description of the type of probabilistic model chosen to represent the monthly mean air surface temperature time series. The long-term change in temperature was evaluated using the Mann-Kendall trend test method and the statistical linear trend test; the results of these two tests agreed. During the last 100 years, data observations from the station indicate that the monthly mean value of the air surface temperature of Jakarta city has increased at a rate of about 0.152°C decade–1 and has not exhibited variability signals but has changed on average. Based on the linear regression model, the mean value of the air surface temperature over Jakarta city is estimated to reach around 28.5°C in 2050 and 29.23°C in 2100.
The Analysis of Income per Capita Convergence on ASEAN Plus Three (APT) Countries
Authors: Fatiwetunusa Any , Syamsurijal Syamsurijal , Yuliana Sa’adah
Published: December 2017

The main objective of this study is to test the convergence of income per capita in APT countries through three models: absolute convergence, conditional convergence and sigma convergence. Regression analysis of panel data from 13 APT countries during the period of 2001-2014 is used to analysed to study problem. In absolute convergence model, the growth of real GDP per capita and initial real GDP are used as the variables, meanwhile, 8 variables such as the growth of real GPD per capita, initial real GDP per capita, labor force ratio, value added in agricultural sector, value added in industrial sector, terms of trade, foreign direct investment and internet users ratio are analyzed in conditional convergence model. According to the Solow model, the economies of the countries will converge in which the growth of income per capita of developing countries will be higher than those of developed countries. The economies will be convergent if the countries tend to move to a similar steady state resulting in smaller gap between the countries. Based on the results of absolute convergence and conditional convergence models, APT countries is converging with the rate of 2% and 2.2%. This is consistent with the results of sigma convergence model that shows a declining trend in the dispersion of real GDP per capita in APT regions. The growth of real GDP per capita is influenced by initial GDP per capita, labor force ratio, value added in agricultural sector, value added in industrial sector, terms of trade, foreign direct investment and internet users ratio. Developed countries such as Singapore, Brunei Darussalam and South Korea experience the impact of high real GDP per capita growth. On the contrary, Indonesia, Laos, Vietnam and The Phillipines undergo the impact of low GDP per capita growth.
Two-year Efficacy and Safety of Subcutaneous Tocilizumab in Combination with Disease-modifying Antirheumatic Drugs Including Escalation to Weekly Dosing in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Kivitz Alan , Olech Ewa , Borofsky Michael A. , Zazueta Beatriz , Navarro-Sarabia Federico , Radominski Sebastião C. , Merrill Joan T. , Pacheco-Tena César , Pei Jinglan , Nasmyth-Miller Clare , Pope Janet E.
Published: December 2017

Objective.

To evaluate the longterm efficacy and safety of subcutaneous tocilizumab (TCZ-SC) every 2 weeks (q2w) over 2 years in patients with rheumatoid arthritis who have an inadequate response to disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD).

Methods.

Patients (n = 656) were randomized 2:1 to TCZ-SC 162 mg q2w or placebo-SC q2w plus DMARD. After a 24-week double-blind period, patients (n = 457) were rerandomized to open-label TCZ-SC q2w by means of prefilled syringe or autoinjector. Escape therapy with weekly TCZ-SC was available for patients with inadequate efficacy from Week 12. Maintenance of response and safety to 2 years was assessed. Analyses used nonresponder imputation.

Results.

The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 20 response after TCZ-SC was maintained beyond Week 24 and was > 70% at each timepoint. ACR50/70, 28-joint Disease Activity Score remission, and ≥ 0.30 decrease from baseline in the Health Assessment Questionnaire–Disability Index response rates were also maintained after Week 24 in the TCZ-SC arm (≥ 50%, > 25%,> 32% and > 56%, respectively). Following escape for inadequate efficacy, many patients achieved ACR20 at the end of the study, 35% after escape from TCZ-SC, and 63% from placebo. The rates of serious adverse events [(11.20/100 patient-years (PY)] including serious infections (3.25/100 PY) were stable through Week 96. No association between anti-TCZ antibody development and loss of efficacy or adverse events was observed.

Conclusion.

Efficacy and safety of TCZ-SC q2w was maintained up to 2 years and remained comparable with previously published data for intravenous TCZ. Dose escalation to weekly TCZ-SC was associated with ACR responses in prior nonresponders and was well tolerated.
CXCL10 and TRAIL Are Upregulated by TXNDC5 in Rheumatoid Arthritis Fibroblast-like Synoviocytes
Authors: Xu Bing , Li Jian , Wu Changsun , Liu Chunyan , Yan Xinfeng , Chang Xiaotian
Published: December 2017

Objective.

Thioredoxin domain containing 5 (TXNDC5) is highly expressed in synovial membranes of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Our study aimed to investigate the pathogenic role of TXNDC5 in RA.

Methods.

PCR arrays, CCK-8 assays, flow cytometry, and transwell migration assays were used to analyze cultured rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASF).

Results.

Increased CXCL10 and tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand levels were detected in RASF transfected with anti-TXNDC5 small interfering RNA (siRNA), and decreased expression was detected in RASF transfected with TXNDC5-expressing plasmids. Significantly attenuated RASF proliferation and migration, and increased RASF apoptosis, were observed in the siRNA-transfected RASF.

Conclusion.

Downregulation of TXNDC5 could contribute to RASF antiangiogenic and proapoptotic features through the suppression of CXCL10 and TRAIL (tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand).
Evaluating factors that dictate struvite stone composition: A multi-institutional clinical experience from the EDGE Research Consortium
Authors: Flannigan Ryan K. , Battison Andrew , De Shubha , Humphreys Mitchell R. , Bader Markus , Lellig Ekaterina , Monga Manoj , Chew Ben H. , Lange Dirk
Published: December 2017

Introduction: Struvite stones account for 15% of urinary calculi and are typically associated with urease-producing urinary tract infections and carry significant morbidity. This study aims to characterize struvite stones based on purity of stone composition, bacterial speciation, risk factors, and clinical features.Methods: Retrospective data was collected from patients diagnosed with infection stones between 2008 and 2012. Stone analysis, perioperative urine cultures, bacterial speciation, and clinical data were collected and analyzed. The purity of struvite stones was determined. Statistical comparisons were made among homogeneous and heterogeneous struvite stones.Results: From the four participating centres, 121 struvite stones were identified. Only 13.2% (16/121) were homogenous struvite. Other components included calcium phosphate (42.1%), calcium oxalate (33.9%), calcium carbonate (27.3%), and uric acid (5.8%). Partial or full staghorn calculi occurred in 23.7% of cases. Ureaseproducing bacteria were only present in 30% of cases. Proteus, E. coli, and Enterococcus were the most common bacterial isolates from perioperative urine, and percutaneous nephrolithotomy was the most common modality of treatment. Only 40% of patients had a urinalysis that was nitrite-positive, indicating that urinalysis alone is not reliable for diagnosing infection stones. The study’s limitation is its retrospective nature; as such, the optimal timing of cultures with respect to stone analysis or treatment was not always possible, urine cultures were often not congruent with stone cultures in the same patient, and our findings of E. coli commonly cultured does not suggest causation.Conclusions: Struvite stones are most often heterogeneous in composition. Proteus remains a common bacterial isolate; however, E. coli and Enterococcus were also frequently identified. This new data provides evidence that patients with struvite stones can have urinary tract pathogens other than urease-producing bacteria, thus challenging previous conventional dogma.
Obtaining New Biopolymer Materials by Electrospinning
Authors: Bokova Elena S. , Kovalenko Grigory M. , Filatov Ivan Yu. , Pawlowa Maria , Stezhka Kseniya S.
Published: December 2017

The paper covers aspects of the technology of fibre electrospinning for the production of nonwoven fabrics for various application areas. The conditions of forming nano- and microfibres from solutions of collagen hydrolyzate and dibutyrylchitine were studied as well as polymer-polymer complexes based on polyacrylic acid, polyvinyl alcohol and polyethylene oxide. A comparative analysis of different methods of electrospinning – electrocapillary, electric and NanospiderTM , was conducted. Promising application areas of non-woven fabrics in medicine sanitation as well as for clothing and footwear production are shown.
Er syntaks en flaskehals i forståelsen?
En undersøgelse af syntaksens betydning for børns sætningsforståelse
Authors: Grandjean Ditte , Poulsen Mads
Published: December 2017

Denne artikel beskriver to sammenhængende undersøgelser af sætningsforståelse hos 56 børn i femte klasse. I den første testede vi, om visse sætningskonstruktioner var særligt svære for børnene at forstå, når sætningerne blev præsenteret mundtligt og isoleret fra en støttende kontekst. Vi benyttede aktiv- over for passivsætninger (diatese), subjekt- over for objektrelativsætninger og sætninger med præmodificeret nominalled over for sætninger med indskudte relativsætninger. Resultaterne viste, at børnene ved alle tre konstruktionspar havde signifikant sværere ved at besvare spørgsmål, som spurgte til indholdet i de svære sætningskonstruktioner. Børnene var ligeledes gennemsnitligt længere tid om at svare korrekt ved samtlige af de svære konstruktionstyper sammenlignet med ved de lette, dog var denne forskel kun signifikant ved diatese og indskud. I en opfølgende undersøgelse fandt vi, at variationen i børnenes mundtlige sætningsforståelse kunne forklare dele af variationen i deres læseforståelse. Denne samvariation kunne ikke forklares af ordforråd eller hukommelse. Tilsammen peger de to undersøgelser på, at syntaktisk svære sætninger kan udgøre et problem for børn i situationer, hvor de ikke har en kontekst at støtte sig til, samt at disse vanskeligheder hænger sammen med niveauet for deres læseforståelse.
Dialysis Facility Staffing Ratios and Kidney Transplant Access Among Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Bicki Alexandra C. , Grimes Barbara , McCulloch Charles E. , Copeland Timothy P. , Ku Elaine
Published: October 2024

Importance

Patient to staff ratios vary across US dialysis facilities and have been associated with patient outcomes in older adults.

Objective

To determine whether patient to nurse or patient to social worker staff ratios are associated with access to kidney transplant for adolescents and young adults.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Retrospective cohort study including patients aged 12 to 30 years who started dialysis between 2005 and 2019 at 8490 US facilities according to the US Renal Data System, the national end-stage kidney disease registry.

Exposures

Time-updated quartile of patient to nurse and patient to social worker ratios at dialysis facilities.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Fine-Gray models were used to relate the exposure to the incidence of waitlisting and kidney transplant, accounting for the competing risk of death. Subgroup analysis by age at dialysis initiation (<22 vs ≥22 years) was performed. Follow-up was censored in January 2020.

Results

A total of 54 141 participants were included (median age, 25 years [IQR, 21-28]; 54.4% male; 4.3% of Asian race, 35.3% of non-Hispanic Black race). The median patient to staff ratios were 14.4 patients per nurse (IQR, 10.3-18.9) and 91.0 patients per social worker (IQR, 65.2-115.0). During a median follow-up of 2.6 years, 39.9% of patients (n = 21 598) received a transplant. In adjusted analysis, the highest (vs lowest) quartile of patient to nurse ratios was associated with 14% lower incidence of transplant (subhazard ratio [SHR], 0.86 [95% CI, 0.82-0.91]). The highest (vs lowest) quartile of patient to social worker ratios was associated with lower incidence of waitlisting (SHR, 0.95 [95% CI, 0.91-0.99]) and transplant (SHR, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.81-0.89]). For both staff ratios, there was an interaction with age at dialysis initiation, such that the association was more pronounced in patients starting dialysis at younger than 22 years (SHR, 0.71 [95% CI, 0.65-0.78] for the highest vs lowest quartile for nursing; SHR, 0.74 [95% CI, 0.68-0.80] for social work) compared with those 22 years and older (SHR, 1.00 [95% CI, 0.94-1.06] for nursing; SHR, 0.96 [95% CI, 0.91-1.02] for social work) for the outcome of transplant.

Conclusions and Relevance

Adolescents and young adults receiving care at dialysis facilities with higher patient to staff ratios had reduced access to waitlisting and transplant, particularly if they were younger than 22 years of age at dialysis initiation.
Clinical trials for Lennox–Gastaut syndrome: Challenges and priorities
Authors: Knowles Juliet K. , Warren Aaron E. L. , Mohamed Ismail S. , Stafstrom Carl E. , Koh Hyun Yong , Samanta Debopam , Shellhaas Renée A. , Gupta Gita , Dixon‐Salazar Tracy , Tran Linh , Bhatia Sonal , McCabe Jane M. , Patel Anup D. , Grinspan Zachary M.
Published: October 2024

Objective: Lennox‐Gastaut syndrome (LGS) is a severe, childhood‐onset epilepsy that is typically refractory to treatment. We surveyed the current landscape of LGS treatment, aiming to identify challenges to the development of efficacious therapies, and to articulate corresponding priorities toward clinical trials that improve outcomes. Methods: The LGS Special Interest Group of the Pediatric Epilepsy Research Consortium integrated evidence from the literature and expert opinion, into a narrative review. Results: We provide an overview of approved and emerging medical, dietary, surgical and neuromodulation approaches for LGS. We note that quality of care could be improved by standardizing LGS treatment based on expert consensus and empirical data. Whereas LGS natural history is incompletely understood, prospective studies and use of large retrospective datasets to understand LGS across the lifespan would enable clinical trials that address these dynamics. Recent discoveries related to LGS pathophysiology should enable development of disease‐modifying therapies, which are currently lacking. Finally, clinical trials have focused chiefly on seizures involving “drops,” but should incorporate additional patient‐centered outcomes, using emerging measures adapted to people with LGS. Interpretation: Clinicians and researchers should enact these priorities, with the goal of patient‐centered clinical trials that are tailored to LGS pathophysiology and natural history.
Visual Snow Syndrome is unstable: A longitudinal investigation of VSS symptoms in a Naïve population
Authors: Thompson Amy Claire , Goodbourn Patrick T. , Forte Jason D.
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the nature of subclinical Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS). We sought to develop a means of recruiting naïve participants with subclinical VSS symptoms to participate in research; and to understand whether subclinical VSS symptoms are stable across time. VSS is a recently characterised neurological condition, whose primary symptom is visual snow (dynamic noise in the visual field). There is evidence that VSS may be common in the general population and that it is unnoticed by many who experience it. To fully characterise VSS, it is important to understand whether (and how) subclinical VSS progresses to a clinical form.

Methods

Here, we present two related studies: Study 1 develops and validates the Melbourne Visual Snow Questionnaire (MVSQ), a tool for screening the general population for VSS symptoms; and Study 2 investigates the stability of subclinical VSS. We developed the MVSQ based on the results of other recent work investigating undiagnosed cases of VSS, and a validated questionnaire designed to identify people with tinnitus for research participation. We then tested the MVSQ in a population with clinical VSS, including assessing face validity (i.e., the extent to which people with clinical VSS believed the questionnaire accurately captured their symptoms). In Study 2, we deployed the MVSQ in a naïve sample of 155 participants, who completed the MVSQ twice, 6 weeks apart.

Results

The results of Study 1 indicated that the MVSQ was a viable method of recruiting people who experience VSS symptoms for research participation. It was deemed to have appropriate face validity and to pose little burden to those who completed it. In Study 2, VSS symptoms changed substantially across a 6‐week period. Cohen's weighted kappa for diagnosis was 0.56, 95% CI [0.43, 0.69]. However, the impact of perceptual experiences was low and did not change over time, rank ICC = 0.71, 95% CI [0.59, 0.82].

Interpretation

The MVSQ is appropriate for assessing perceptual experiences in the general population. Determining the exact time scale across which symptoms fluctuate is important for understanding both clinical and subclinical cases of VSS.
Conformation‐Controlled Double Phosphorescence Components From A Single Organic Molecule: Time‐Dependent and Excitation‐Dependent Wide‐Range Afterglow Color Change
Authors: Bai Jingjuan , Han Lin , Liu Yiran , Bu Lijuan , Hu Shui , Ma Jiaxin , Li Zewei , Chen Mingxing , Ma Zhimin , Ma Zhiyong
Published: October 2024

Double phosphorescence components from a single organic molecule is rarely reported before because most organic molecules must follow Kasha's rule and merely emit phosphorescence from T1 state. We discover a unique phenomenon of conformation‐controlled expression of double phosphorescence components. The green phosphorescence component and the red phosphorescence component are assigned to the dinaphthylamine moiety and the pyrene unit of N,N‐di(naphthalen‐2‐yl)pyren‐1‐amine (NaPy), respectively. NaPy shows time‐dependent and excitation‐dependent afterglow color change in copolymerized MMA film at room temperature due to simultaneous expression of the double phosphorescence components. However, in PMMA film and copolymerized MA film, NaPy just expresses the red phosphorescence component, suggesting that matrix rigidity greatly affects expression of the double phosphorescence components via altering conformation of NaPy. In low‐rigidity matrix, the NaPy conformation is dyanmic due to free rotation and triplet excitons relax to T1 state via inner conversion or vibration relaxation, leading to the sole expression of the red phosphorescence component. In high‐rigidity matrix, the highly twisted conformation of NaPy is stabilized due to limitation of rotation and triplet excitons at T1 state and T2 state return to S0 state separately, resulting in simultaneous expression of the double phosphorescence components. Thus, NaPy follows Kasha's rule in low‐rigidity matrix but disobeys Kasha's rule in high‐rigidity matrix. In high‐rigidity matrix, the dinaphthylamine moiety and the pyrene unit can function relatively independently, resulting in time‐dependent and excitation‐dependent wide‐range afterglow color change.
Transient Implantable Electronics for Postsurgery Preventive Medicine
Authors: Mirzajani Hadi , Zolfaghari Parviz , Akbari Nakhjavani Sattar , Koca Beril Yagmur , Khodapanahandeh Mehrdad , Urey Hakan
Published: October 2024

The field of postoperative care has seen a remarkable shift toward the utilization of electronic implantable devices, including sensors, biosensors, stimulators, and drug delivery systems, all designed with a biodegradable form factor and wireless data/power transmission capability. These technologies hold immense potential for postsurgery out‐of‐hospital monitoring during the postdischarged period, where continuous monitoring of physiological signals is lacking. Furthermore, these devices eliminate the need for secondary surgeries required for device retrieval as they can safely degraded in the body, thus enhancing patient recovery. This review delves into the latest advancements in biodegradable implantable devices, examining their application in monitoring vital signs, the innovative wireless communication and powering technologies they employ, and the biodegradable materials that enable their function. The analysis extends to evaluating the efficacy and limitations of these devices across various medical applications. Moreover, it explores future research directions, emphasizing material advancements, device miniaturization, customization, and the integration of artificial intelligence to create closed‐loop therapeutic systems. This comprehensive review underscores the transformative potential of these technologies in enhancing postoperative care and outlines the pathway for future innovations in this dynamic field.
Tunable Mesoporous Porphyrin‐Based Conjugated Polymer Capable of Boosting Four‐Electron Zn‐I2 Batteries
Authors: Xia Yujie , Li Wenda , Xu Hengyue , Wei Facai , Ke Shanzhe , Chen Hao , Zhang Hongyi , Guo Gaijuan , Ma Liguo , Wang Jingfeng , Liu Shaohua
Published: October 2024

Porphyrin‐based conjugated polymers (PCPs) have garnered significant attention due to their exceptional conjugated π‐electron system and remarkable physical/chemical properties, further endowing them with ordered mesoscopic architecture to break the intrinsic non/microporous restriction is highly desirable, but it still remains a great challenge. Herein, a facile bottom‐up approach for fabricating ordered mesoporous PCPs (mPCPs) with tunable mesoporous channels through colloid‐mediated self‐assembly are presented. The resultant orders mesoscopic architecture featuring a substantial specific surface area (99.3 m2 g−1) and polar skeleton, remarkably improved anchoring properties for iodine chloride molecule. Meanwhile, the optimized mass transport facilitated by the robust mesoporous channels, coupled with the increased accessibility of polar functional groups, renders the structures with an ideal nanoreactor for the highly synergistic stabilization of the four‐electron I+/I2/I− conversion process. Therefore, the mPCPs host exhibits a high specific capacity (321 mA h g−1 at 0.5 A g−1), excellent rate performance, and cycle stability (266 mAh g−1 at 3.0 A g−1 after 1800 cycles), underscoring its potential as an effective platform for zinc‐iodine batteries. This study will provide a new method for precise control and engineering of mesoporous structures tailored for specific functionalities and electrochemical requirements, thereby facilitating the development of advanced materials based on multi‐electron energy storage applications.
Progress on Carbon Dots with Intrinsic Bioactivities for Multimodal Theranostics
Authors: Zhang Hao , Liu Hao , Liu Xiaohui , Song Aiguo , Jiang Hui , Wang Xuemei
Published: October 2024

Carbon dots (CDs) with intrinsic bioactivities are candidates for bioimaging and disease therapy due to their diverse bioactivities, high biocompatibility, and multiple functionalities in multimodal theranostics. It is a multidisciplinary research hotspot that includes biology, physics, materials science, and chemistry. This progress report discusses the CDs with intrinsic bioactivities and their applications in multimodal theranostics. The relationship between the synthesis and structure of CDs is summarized and analyzed from a material and chemical perspective. The bioactivities of CDs including anti‐tumor, antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory etc. are discussed from biological points of view. Subsequently, the optical and electronic properties of CDs that can be applied in the biomedical field are summarized from a physical perspective. Based on the functional review of CDs, their applications in the biomedical field are reviewed, including optical diagnosis and treatment, biological activity, etc. Unlike previous reviews, this review combines multiple disciplines to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms, functions, and applications of CDs with intrinsic bioactivities.
Early Diagnosis of Liver Injury and Real‐Time Evaluation of Photothermal Therapy Efficacy with a Viscosity‐Responsive NIR‐II Smart Molecule
Authors: Zan Qi , Fan Li , Lu Wenjing , Zhang Yuewei , Huang Yunong , Yu Xue , Han Yahong , Zhang Ruiping , Dong Chuan , Shuang Shaomin
Published: October 2024

The early diagnosis of liver injury and in situ real‐time monitoring of tumor therapy efficacy are important for the enhancement of personalized precision therapy but remain challenging due to the lack of reliable in vivo visualization tools with integrated diagnostic, therapeutic, and efficacy monitoring functions. Herein, a smart second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II) molecule (BITX‐OH) is rationally designed for diagnosis and therapy by vinyl‐bridging hydroxyl diphenyl xanthine unit and benzo[cd]indolium skeleton. BITX‐OH exhibits high selectivity and sensitivity toward viscosity, exhibiting a significant enhancement (1167‐fold) in NIR‐II fluorescence at 962 nm. With the assistance of BITX‐OH and NIR‐II fluorescence imaging, early diagnosis and therapeutic evaluation of non‐alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL), as well as in‐site real‐time monitoring of hepatic fibrosis (HF) in live mice have been successfully achieved, which is at least several hours earlier than the typical clinical test. Notably, BITX‐OH displays excellent photothermal conversion efficiency when exposed to an 808 nm laser, which can induce tumor ablation and increase viscosity, thereby enhancing NIR‐II fluorescence for the real‐time evaluation of photothermal therapy (PTT). This viscosity‐based “self‐monitoring” strategy provides a convenient and reliable platform for timely obtaining therapeutic feedback to avoid over‐ or under‐treatment, thus enabling personalized precision therapy.
Photocatalytic Semi‐Hydrogenation of Acetylene to Polymer‐Grade Ethylene with Molecular and Metal–Organic Framework Cobaloximes
Authors: Stone Aaron E.B.S. , Fortunato Anna , Wang Xijun , Saggioro Edoardo , Snurr Randall Q. , Hupp Joseph T. , Arcudi Francesca , Ðorđević Luka
Published: October 2024

The semi‐hydrogenation of acetylene in ethylene‐rich gas streams is a high‐priority industrial chemical reaction for producing polymer‐grade ethylene. Traditional thermocatalytic routes for acetylene reduction to ethylene, despite progress, still require high temperatures and high H2 consumption, possess relatively low selectivity, and use a noble metal catalyst. Light‐powered strategies are starting to emerge, given that they have the potential to use directly the abundant and sustainable solar irradiation, but are ineffective. Here an efficient, >99.9% selective, visible‐light powered, catalytic conversion of acetylene to ethylene is reported. The catalyst is a homogeneous molecular cobaloxime that operates in tandem with a photosensitizer at room temperature and bypasses the use of non‐environmentally friendly and flammable H2 gas feed. The reaction proceeds through a cobalt‐hydride intermediate with ≈100% conversion of acetylene under competitive (ethylene co‐feed) conditions after only 50 min, and with no evolution of H2 or over‐hydrogenation to ethane. The cobaloxime is further incorporated as a linker in a metal–organic framework; the result is a heterogeneous catalyst for the conversion of acetylene under competitive (ethylene co‐feed) conditions that can be recycled up to six times and remains catalytically active for 48 h, before significant loss of performance is observed.