bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Persentase Motilitas dan Viabilitas Spermatozoa Kambing Sapera dalam Pengencer Tris Kuning Telur dan Susu Skim Kuning Telur Before Freezing
Authors: Masyitoh Herlina , Suprayogi Tri Wahyu , Praja Ratih Novita , Srianto Pudji , Madyawati Sri Pantja , Saputro Amung Logam
Published: June 2019

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui perbedaan persentase motilitas dan viabilitas semen kambing Sapera terhadap evaluasi semen segar dan before freezing dengan penambahan pengencer tris kuning telur dan susu skim kuning telur. Metode penelitian ini adalah pengambilan semen, evaluasi semen segar (pemeriksaan makroskopis dan mikroskopis), pengenceran semen, gliserolisasi, ekuilibrasi dan evaluasi before freezing. Penelitian ini terdiri dari P0, P1 dan P2, masing-masing perlakuan terdiri dari sembilan ulangan. P0 adalah semen segar kambing Sapera, P1 adalah semen kambing Sapera+pengencer tris kuning telur dan P2 adalah semen kambing Sapera+pengencer susu skim kuning telur. Data yang diperoleh dengan Uji T2 sampel dependent, membandingkan P0 dan P1 serta P0 dan P2. Data menunjukkan perbedaan sangat nyata (p<0,01) pada perlakuan P0 dan P1 persentase motilitas 76,11%; 65,56% dan viabilitas 82,33%;72,22%. P0 dan P2 persentase motilitas 76,11%;61,11% dan viabilitas 82,33%;67,78%. Hasil tersebut menunjukkan bahwa penelitian persentase motilitas dan viabilitas spermatozoa kambing Sapera mengalami penurunan dari semen segar pada tris kuning telur dan susu skim kuning telur before freezing.
ANALYZING THE STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT BETWEEN INFORMATION SYSTEM TECHNOLOGY AND BUSINESS PROCESS IN SMALL MEDIUM ENTERPRISE (SME) USING FRAMEWORK COBIT 4.1– A CASE STUDY IN UNIVERSAL TRADING, SURABAYA
Authors: Hartanti Benih
Published: June 2019

This research was conducted in Universal Trading as one of SME that applies Information Technology as daily business process in order to analyze whether the use of Information Technology is alligned with the strategy formulation. Type of research is Descriptive Research with Qualitative technique by using direct observation and depth interview with all user of TI from leader to staff. In depicting a further detail description, Internal and External Matrixas well as COBIT Verse 4.1 were utilized in supporting so. From the position of Average as a result of IFE-EFE Matrix and the Score of COBIT 4.1 in primary process of Strategic Allingment is 2,95 could be concluded that only strategy of new market penetration could be alligned by the use of Information Technology as the company basic business process is limiting the strategy of new product development using only company’s internal source. Keyword: strategic allignment, information technology, COBIT 4.1
Comparative Analysis of Financial Performance of SOE Cement Companies in the Post-Entry of Massive Foreign Capital Companies of Cement Industry in Indonesia
Authors: Malik Ahmad Dahlan , Handono Wahyu Agung
Published: June 2019

In order to achieve the Master Plan for the Acceleration and Expansion of the Indonesian Economic Development (MP3EI) program which has a significant impact on cement demand outside java, it is necessary to improve the performance of cement companies, especially state-owned cement companies consisting of PT Semen Indonesia Tbk (Persero) and PT Semen Batu Raja (Persero). In addition, competition in the globalization era in fulfilling domestic cement is a challenge for state-owned cement companies with Cement Foreign Investment (PMA) industries in Indonesia which are listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. To increase attractiveness and strengthen performance, state-owned cement companies need to display an analysis of attractive financial performance along with the selection of independent variables in the discrimination function as a variable that explains precisely the performance of the company based on the Discriminant Stepwise Method. This is in accordance with the purpose of this study by analysing Du Pont System Analysis, Analysis of financial ratios in the form of liquidity ratios, solvability, profitability, activity, along with reference to the Decree of the Minister of Finance of the Republic of Indonesia No. 826/KMK.013/1992, and strengthened by the Decree of the Minister of BUMN No: KEP-100/MBU/2002 in financial aspects for the performance of state-owned enterprises. This study also provides additional analysis in the form of Economic Value Added (EVA), Tobin’s q and Altman Z-Score as a complement to the comparison of the financial performance of state-owned cement companies and Cement PMA companies in the period 2013-2016.
A Study of Factors Affecting Income Inequality in 38 East Java Districts/ Cities in 2012-2015
Authors: Hariani Ermatry
Published: June 2019

Developing economy is very important to fix some of the problems. Each region wants to achieve sustainable economic development. Yet, with the difference of human development index, the open unemployment rate and the districts/ cities minimum wage will form a problem, namely inequality. The purpose of this study is to examine whether the human development index (HDI), the open unemployment rate (TPT) and districts/ cities minimum wage (UMK) had an effect on the income inequality of 38 districts/ cities in East Java in 2012-2015. The methods used in this study is panel data (time series and cross section) of 38 districts/ cities East Java 2012-2015. The model chosen in this study is REM (random effect model) model. The result shows that there is only one significant variable causing income inequality, that is HDI. This means that the high and low of HDI influences the high and low to the income inequality. Meanwhile, two other variables, namely open unemployment rate (TPT) and minimum wage of districts / cities (UMK) have no significant influence to income inequality. In other words, the high-low of TPT and UMK have no influence to the high and low of the income inequality in East Java during the study period.
Developing a Data Mining Based Model to Extract Predictor Factors in Energy Systems: Application of Global Natural Gas Demand
Authors: Hafezi Reza , Akhavan Amir Naser , Zamani Mazdak , Pakseresht Saeed , Shamshirband Shahab
Published: June 2019

Recently natural gas (NG) global market attracted much attention in case it is cleaner than oil, and simultaneously in most regions is cheaper than renewable energy sources. However, price fluctuations, environmental concerns, technological development, emerging unconventional resources, energy security challenges, and shipment are some of the forces that made the NG market more dynamic and complex. From a policy-making perspective, it is vital to uncover demand-side future trends. This paper proposed an intelligent forecasting model to forecast NG global demand, however investigating a multi-dimensional purified input vector. The model starts with a data mining (DM) step to purify input features, identify the best time lags, and to pre-process selected input vector. Then a hybrid artificial neural network (ANN) which equipped with genetic optimizer is applied to set up ANN’s characteristics. Among 13 available input features, six features (e.g. Alternative and Nuclear Energy, CO2 Emissions, GDP per Capita, Urban Population, Natural Gas Production, Oil Consumption) selected as the most critical feature via the DM step. Then, the hybrid prediction model is designed to extrapolate the consumption of future trends. The proposed model overcomes competitive models refer to different error based evaluation statistics. Besides, as the model proposed the best input feature set, results compared to the model which used the raw input set, with no DM purification process.
Cervical vertigo in severe cervical spondylosis: frequent or over- diagnosed?
Authors: Kadaňka Zdeněk , Kadaňka Zdeněk , Jura Rene , Bednarik Josef
Published: June 2019

Background
Cervical vertigo (CV) is a grossly over-diagnosed entity although, in all probability, it does not exist. The aim of this study was to test following hypothesis: that even in patients with one of the most severe forms of cervical spondylosis, degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM), stimulation of the cervical proprioceptors does not provoke or increase vertigo
Methods
The study was performed in a cohort of 38 patients with DCM confirmed by clinical manifestation and MRI-detected degenerative cervical cord compression. The incidental presence of vertigo in these patients was investigated by means of a questionnaire and a clinical neurological examination. The cervical torsion test (to stimulate cervical proprioceptors), and ultrasound examinations of the extracerebral carotid and vertebral arteries (to exclude impaired blood circulation in the cervical region) were performed. All patients with vertigo underwent a diagnostic work-up designed to reveal its cause.

Results: Subjective symptoms of vertigo occurring in the six months previous to examination were reported by 18 patients (47%). None of these patients responded positively to the cervical torsion test, while highly probable explanations involving an etiology for vertigo other than from the cervical region were found in all patients suffering from it. No patient exhibited significant stenosis of the vertebral arteries.
Conclusions: There were no clear signs of CV in the cohort of patients with DCM. If patients with cervical spondylosis suffer from vertigo, its cause may, more easily be explained by common and treatable etiologies that do not lie in the cervical region.
Ten years of prevalence and clinical laboratory features of HCMV infected children in a hospital of Jiangsu Province
Authors: Shang Wenwen , Zhao Hong , Rong Guodong , Xu Ting , Wu Lei , Huang Peijun , Wang Fang , Zhang Jiexin
Published: June 2019

Background: Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is prevalent worldwide and causing lifelong infection. We conducted a retrospective study to determine the epidemiology and clinical laboratory characteristics of CMV infection in children in a hospital of Jiangsu Province.
Methods: Totally 2600 urine specimens of infants and children hospitalized in general pediatric from 2009 to 2018 were collected followed by CMV-DNA loads detection. Among them, clinical records and laboratory results of 971 infants aged 3-12 months were focused for further statistics analysis.
Results: Urine CMV-DNA load test was intensively ordered in 2011 (17.76%; 532/2996) for infants under 1 month but the rate continuously dropped ever since. In fact, infants under 1 month had the lowest detection sensitivity and children aged between 3 to 24 months had the highest positive rate. On the contrary, analysis of blood routine test showed that the absolute counts of peripheral leukocytes (P=0.008), monocytes (P=0.039), neutrophils (P<0.001) and platelets (P=0.006) were significantly decreased in CMV+ group compared with CMV- group. The percentages of neutrophils (NEUT%) were decreased (P<0.001) while the percentages of lymphocytes (LYM%) were increased (P<0.001) by CMV infection. Moreover, NLR (neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio) (P<0.01), MLR (monocyte to lymphocyte ratio) (P=0.017) and SII (systemic immune index) (P=0.002) were also decreased in CMV+ group. The hospitalization of cases in CMV+ group was significantly longer than that of the CMV- group (P=0.039), and the proportion of children with hospitalization stay longer than 2 weeks in CMV+ group was higher, with significant difference (P=0.006).
Conclusion: CMV survey has not drawn much attention in hospitalized infants and children, and the combined application of urine CMV detection and blood routine test should be benefit when assessing CMV infections.
Performance capacity of the health system workforce towards integrated leading-managing-and-governing practices in Ethiopia: with special reference to the application of factor analysis and ordinal logistic regression
Authors: Ambelie Yeshambel Agumas , Alene Getu Degu , Gebrekiros Damen Hailemariam
Published: June 2019

Background

Observing over-led and under-managed, over-managed and under-governed, and even out of these health organizations remains a common phenomenon in low and middle-income countries including Ethiopia. To balance these discrepancies, leadership and governance is regarded as the locus of all other critical health system building blocks. Thus, the current study looks at the performance capacity of the health system workforce towards integrated leading-managing-and-governing practices and its predictors in Ethiopia.

Methods

Eight-hundred-thirteen health system workforce were participated in this study. These were selected from 32 health care organizations located in northwest Ethiopia. Data were collected using a multi-item questionnaire. These data were fitted to factor analysis and ordinal logistic regression models. Factor analysis was used to develop scientifically reliable and empirically scalable measurement model. Once this model was tested for reliability and validity, the performance capacity of the health system workforce towards integrated leading-managing-and-governing practices (the outcome variable) was computed and labeled. Finally, ordinal logistic regression was conducted to model relationships between the outcome variable and its predictors using probability value and odds ratio.

Results

From 813 participants who rated the questionnaire, 396 (48.7%) and 582 (71.6%) were females and service owners respectively. Using these ratings, four factors were extracted. These factors together with items rated and error variances provided a four-factor measurement model. This model had estimates above .5, composite reliability above .7 and average variance extracted above .5. Using items in this model, the outcome variable was labeled as low (41.3%), moderate (42.7%), high (13.5%) and very high (2.5%). Sex and responsibility were among significantly associated predictors.

Conclusions

Empowering the health system workforce towards integrated leading-managing-and-governing practices using scientifically reliable and empirically scalable model is important, particularly in resource-limited settings. The policies and strategies developed in this regard should give due attention to females and service owners. The current results could provide foundations for training and future research.

Trial registration

The current study was part of a PhD dissertation research, which has been registered at clinical trials.gov since 9 July 2018 with identifiers: NCT03639961.
Networks and Institutionalization: A Neo-structural Approach
Authors: Lazega Emmanuel
Published: June 2019

This paper is the text prepared for the keynote address of the EUSN 2017 conference in Mainz, Germany. A short presentation of concepts reflects in part the foundations of neo-structural sociology (NSS) and its use of social and organisational network analyses, combined with other methodologies, to better understand the roles of structure and culture in individual and collective agency. The presentation shows how NSS accounts for institutional change by focusing on the importance of combined relational infrastructures and rhetorics. Specific characteristics of institutional entrepreneurs who punch above their weight in institutionalization processes are introduced for that purpose, particularly the importance of multi-status oligarchs, status heterogeneity, high-status inconsistencies, collegial oligarchies, conflicts of interests and rhetorics of relative/false sacrifice. Two empirical examples illustrate this approach. The first case focuses on a network study of the Commercial Court of Paris, a 450-year-old judicial institution. The second case focuses on a network study of a field-configuring event (the so-called Venice Forum) lobbying for the emergence of a new European jurisdiction, the Unified Patent Court, and its attempt to create a common intellectual property regime for the continent. For sociologists, both examples involve “studying up”: they are cases of public/private joint regulation of markets bringing together these ingredients of institutionalization. The conclusion suggests future lines of research that NSS opens for the study of institutionalization, in particular using the dynamics of multi-level networks. One of the main issues raised by this approach is its contribution to the study of democratic deficits in a period of intense institutional change in Europe.
The Boston Special Youth Project Affiliation Dataset
Authors: Young Jacob T.N. , Decker Scott H. , Sweeten Gary
Published: June 2019

The Boston Special Youth Project (SYP) Affiliation dataset is a large, bipartite network representing interactions among 166 gang members from seven gangs for nearly three years. The project was conducted from June 1954 to May 1957 and represents one of the most elaborate gang intervention programs ever conducted. The SYP was a “detached-worker program,” where an adult (typically a graduate student from one of the surrounding universities) was assigned to an area (local parks, housing projects) to establish and maintain contact with and attempt to change the behaviors of the gangs. These workers collected detailed field notes (“contact cards”) documenting the activities of study gang members. However, the social network data collected on the contact cards were never analyzed by SYP staff. After the death of the project leader, Walter Miller, in 2004, the materials from the project became available to a team of researchers (faculty, graduate, and undergraduate students) in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Arizona State University. These researchers electronically scanned and digitized the contact cards, and began the process of creating a network from the cards. From these cards, a bipartite network was created where 166 individuals (i.e. gang members) were connected to 33,653 events (i.e. contact cards).
A sombra que ilumina: a poesia de António Franco Alexandre
Authors: Soeiro Ricardo Gil
Published: June 2019

É nosso propósito tactear a poesia franco alexandrina, sabendo que o labor que a anima se demora nesta “fala imperceptível,” sempre situada no limiar entre o sim e o não, entre a luz e a sombra, entre a mágoa dos corpos e a redenção do encontro, entre um angustiante e obstinado mutismo das coisas (dos seus “objectos principais”) e o horror da sua inviolada transparência.
Masochistic Ritual and Rebirth in Fernão Mendes Pinto's Peregrinação
Authors: Barletta Vincent
Published: June 2019

The present study, in a very literal sense a focused exploration of Jorge’s comments regarding the ontogenetically productive role of humiliation and violence within the Peregrinação, has at its center a concern with what I see as a series of masochistic rituals encoded within Mendes Pinto’s narrative.
O espírito do império: as grandes certezas do Estado Novo em Chaimite
Authors: Vieira Patriícia
Published: June 2019

Dada a relevância do espírito nos discursos de definição e legitimação do Estado Novo, torna-se premente proceder à identificação do núcleo semântico deste termo e à delimitação dos seus contornos sócio-políticos. O que entende Salazar por “espírito”?
Under the Sign of an Evil Power: Jacob Burckhardt and Alfredo Bosi
Authors: Newcomb Robert Patrick
Published: June 2019

I will organize my present analysis around Jacob Burckhardt’s formulation and Alfedo Bosi’s reception of the idea that “power is in itself evil” (die Macht an sich böse ist), which Burckhardt repeated as a kind of mantra throughout his historiographical reflections.
Wasserman, Renata R. Mautner. Central at the Margin: Five Brazilian Women Writers. Lewisburg: Bucknell University Press, 2007.
Authors: Williams Claire
Published: June 2019

Wasserman’s series of essays is exactly what it says on the cover: five chapters devoted to five women writers from Brazil, always discussed with an awareness of how they can be seen as “marginal” through, for example, their gender, their background, their ethnic origin, the language in which they write or wrote, and their cultural impact in Brazil and abroad.
Women in the Portuguese Colonial Empire: The Theatre of Shadows. Ed. Clara Sarmento. Newcastle-upon-Tyne: Cambridge Scholars Publishing, 2008.
Authors: Owen Hilary
Published: June 2019

This collection of essays provides a useful multidisciplinary approach to the retrieval of women’s voices and experiences in the history of Portuguese colonialism. The analysis of women’s life histories and cultural interventions remains an ongoing priority for the study of Portugal’s empire and this volume is certainly a welcome contribution to the field.
Liberal World Order in the Age of Disruptive Politics: A Southeast Asian Perspective
Authors: Karim Moch Faisal
Published: June 2019

There is no question that the current liberal world order faces yet another challenge. The upcoming challenge that we are about to confront is an exceptionally different kind of challenge. This challenge is the emergence of what I call a disruptive politics in the heartland of consolidated liberal states. The two main side effects of disruptive politics can be seen at both the domestic and international levels. Domestically, there is growing rise of populism in stable western democracies epitomized with the election of Donald Trump as President of the United States of America. Internationally, there is a growing rejection of globalization and integration, exemplified by the UK leaving the EU. Many commentators and pundits have observed that the rise of disruptive politics is the very threat to the liberal world order that could eventually cause it to collapse from within. While the side effects of disruptive politics should be addressed with caution; however, it is misleading to equate the disruptive politics with its side effects such as the rise of populism and the growing contend with the globalization. I would argue that disruptive politics is necessary for the survival of the liberal world order. Disruptive politics is a way to make us realize that liberal democracy is not perfect and we need to fix it. This essay explores the notion of disruptive politics and the challenge it poses. It begins by unpacking the notion. It then offers three insights on how to maintain the liberal world order in an age of disruptive politics.
Technology Transfer and the Promotion of Technical Skills from Japan to Southeast Asia: Case Study of Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Quynh Huong
Published: June 2019

In this era of globalization, technology transfer is widely regarded as a significant vehicle by which developing countries can both acquire technologies and develop human resources. Also, the skills level of employees has been identified in playing a critical role in making technology transfer effective. Japan is one of the largest investors in Vietnam. Japanese foreign direct investment (FDI) projects that are large in terms of investment capital and concentrate in high technology industries, are predicted to continue to increase and they offer the promise of new employment and technology transfer opportunities for Vietnam and its people. However, the lack of a skilled labor force in Vietnam, especially in the manufacturing industry, has currently impeded the transfer of technologies from Japan to Vietnam. Human resource development in general and technical skill promotion in particular are critical requirements for Vietnam to take advantage of technology transfer.This paper attempts to evaluate the current situation of technical skill levels of employees in the Vietnamese manufacturing industry, as well as technology transfer from Japan to Vietnam through Japanese FDI manufacturing firms. In addition, this paper introduces the current policies and strategies of the Vietnam government in relation to technology transfer issues. It is suggested in this paper that bridging the huge gap between Japanese technical standards and the Vietnamese workforce’s technical skills definitely requires the crucial role of the Vietnamese government. The author then provides some recommendations for the government to adopt in order to upgrade technical skill levels to effectively adopt and utilize technologies transferred from Japan in the manufacturing industry.
Öğrenme Güçlüğü Yaşayan Ortaokul Öğrencilerine Yönelik Fen Deneyleri Kılavuzunun Etkililiğinin İncelenmesi
Authors: ER NAS Sibel , ŞENEL ÇORUHLU Tülay , ÇALIK Muammer , ERGÜL Cevriye , GÜLAY Ahmet
Published: June 2019

Bu araştırmanın amacı, tartışma
yöntemi ve zenginleştirilmiş çalışma yaprağı temelinde “Öğrenme Güçlüğü Yaşayan
Ortaokul Öğrencilerine Yönelik Fen Deneyleri Kılavuzu”nun hazırlanması,
uygulanması ve bu kılavuzun öğrencilerin kavramsal anlamaları üzerine olan
etkisinin incelenmesidir. Zenginleştirilmiş çalışma yaprakları “dikkat çekme-etkin
uğraşı ve değerlendirme” bölümlerinden oluşmaktadır. Dikkat çekme bölümlerinde
tartışma yönteminin “vızıltı 22 ve beyin fırtınası”, değerlendirme bölümlerinde
ise “akvaryum veya kartopu” teknikleri kullanılmıştır. Etkin uğraşı bölümlerine
ise “Canlılar ve Hayat” öğrenme alanına ilişkin altı deney yerleştirilmiştir.
Özel durum yönteminin kullanıldığı araştırma ön, pilot ve asıl uygulama çalışmaları
ile 24 ayda tamamlanmıştır. Çalışma grubunu öğrenme güçlüğü yaşayan 12 kaynaştırma
öğrencisi oluşturmuştur. Veri toplama aracı olarak kavram testi, görüşme ve
çizim testinden yararlanılmıştır. Çalışma sonucunda “Ortaokul Öğrenme Güçlüğü Yaşayan
Kaynaştırma Öğrencilerine Yönelik Fen Deneyleri Kılavuzu”nun öğrencilerin
kavramsal anlamaları üzerinde olumlu etkilerinin olduğu belirlenmiştir. Öğrenme
güçlüğü yaşayan öğrencilerin düşüncelerini çizimlerle ifade etmede daha
başarılı oldukları görülmüştür.
Exploring the performances of the dual technique-based water hammer redesign strategy in water supply systems
Authors: Trabelsi Mounir , Triki Ali
Published: June 2019

This paper explored and compared the effectiveness of the inline and branching redesign strategies-based dual technique, implemented to enhance the conventional technique skills in terms of attenuation of positive and negative pressure surge magnitudes and limitation of the spreading of pressure wave oscillation period. Basically, this technique is based on splitting the single inline or branched plastic short-section, used in the conventional technique, into a couple of two sub-short-sections made of two distinct plastic material types. Investigations addressed positive and negative surge initiated water hammer events. Additionally, high and low density polyethylene materials were utilized for sub-short-section material. Results illustrated the reliability of the dual technique in protecting hydraulic systems from excessive pressure rise and drop, and evidenced that the (HDPE/LDPE) sub-short-sections' combination (where the former sub-short-section is attached to the sensitive region of the steel piping system parts, while the latter is attached to the second extremity of the steel piping system) is the most prominent configuration providing the best trade-off between pressure surge attenuation, and pressure wave oscillation period spreading. Lastly, it was found that the pressure head peak (or crest) and the pressure wave oscillation period values were markedly sensitive to the (HDPE) sub-short-section length and diameter.
The improved multi-criteria decision-making model for multi-objective operation in a complex reservoir system
Authors: Yang Zhe , Yang Kan , Wang Yufeng , Su Lyuwen , Hu Hu
Published: June 2019

In multi-objective reservoir operation, it is vital for decision-makers to select optimal scheduling schemes through efficient multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques. However, in the family of MCDM methods, it is difficult for the technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS) to describe grey correlation, thus making decisions with less reliability. To this end, a framework supporting high-quality solutions' acquirement and optimal reservoir operation decision-making is established. The improved multi-objective particle swarm optimization (IMOPSO), a new efficient MCDM model based on TOPSIS and grey correlation analysis (GCA), and combination weighting method based on the minimum deviation (CWMMD) are included in the framework. The non-inferior solution set is efficiently obtained by IMOPSO and optimal decision information is provided for decision-makers using the MCDM model. Moreover, the CWMMD is used to determine weighting information of multiple evaluation indicators. Numerical simulations are conducted to verify the efficiency of the proposed methodology and support decision-making for multi-objective reservoir operation in Hongjiadu and Qingjiang basins. The results indicate that the proposed methodology can provide non-inferior scheduling solutions and decision-making instruction with higher reliability for multi-objective reservoir operation.
Use of detention basin for flood mitigation and urban requalification in Mesquita, Brazil
Authors: Jacob Ana Caroline Pitzer , Rezende Osvaldo Moura , de Sousa Matheus Martins , de França Ribeiro Luiza Batista , de Oliveira Antonio Krishnamurti Beleño , Arrais Cícero Matos , Miguez Marcelo Gomes
Published: June 2019

Unplanned urbanization is one of the main factors responsible for worsening flood-related problems in cities, increasing the frequency of flooding and flooding depths, consequently degrading both the natural and built environment. Considering this, the use of engineering techniques that reduce runoff and promote urban requalification are an efficient option for managing rainwater. This paper presents a case study of a flood control project using a storm water detention pond, designed to allow multiple uses of an urban space. The operation of the system is evaluated by an urban flow-cell model, known as MODCEL. This application seeks the best configuration for the layout of ‘Celso Peçanha’ Detention Basin, considering the local restrictions imposed by the City of Mesquita – Brazil, and optimized to damp storm flows resulting from rainfall events with return periods up to 50 years. The solution proposed considers the possibility of social urban space uses in flood control projects, revitalizing degraded areas and giving them multiple functions.
Avaliação de cursos a partir do SINAES:
Authors: Guerra Maria das Graças Gonçalves Vieira , Ribeiro Wagner Leite
Published: June 2019

Este trabalho analisou os dados contidos nos relatórios de avaliação de cursos, disponibilizados à comunidade acadêmica e à sociedade no site da Comissão Própria de Avaliação (CPA) da Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), a partir do Sistema Nacional de Avaliação da Educação Superior (SINAES). É uma pesquisa de cunho qualitativo, com levantamento bibliográfico e documental. Para tanto, a técnica utilizada para o tratamento dos dados coletados foi a análise de Strenghts, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT). Como resultados, percebeu-se a necessidade de que os Projetos Políticos Pedagógicos sejam revistos e atualizados a fim de atenderem ao que dispõe a legislação vigente, notadamente às diretrizes estabelecidas pela Comissão Nacional de Avaliação da Educação Superior (CONAES) e Instituto Nacional de Estudos e Pesquisas Educacionais Anísio Teixeira (INEP). Constatamos, ainda, a importância de serem realizadas melhorias quanto aos aspectos relativos à biblioteca, acessibilidade e demais instalações físicas, uma vez que tais indicadores foram notoriamente mal avaliados nas visitas in loco realizadas.
Clinical Usefulness of N-terminal Prohormone of Brain Natriuretic Peptide and High Sensitivity Troponin T in Patients with Heart Failure Undergoing Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Debska-Kozlowska Agnieszka , Ksiazczyk Marcin , Warchol Izabela , Lubinski Andrzej
Published: June 2019

Background:

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a valuable intracardiac device-based treatment
option for a subgroup of patients with advanced heart failure (HF) and QRS prolongation. However, still a
significant proportion of patients do not benefit from CRT implantation, labeled as non-responders.

Objectives:

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide
(NT-pro BNP) and high sensitivity troponin T (cTnThs) value as predictors of CRT response in a 12-month observation.

Materials and Methods:

The study included 46 patients with HF and implanted CRT-D. Levels of NT-pro BNP
and cTnThs were assessed during a 12 month follow up.

Results:

46 consecutive patients (76% men) with a mean age of 64±8 were observed for 12 months. The CRT
response criteria was met by 26 patients (56,5%). A significant decline in the NT-pro BNP concentrations was
documented in responders (p=0.001). Moreover, ΔNT-pro BNP by at least 579 pg/ml had high sensitivity and
specificity for identifying the CRT responders. There were no statistically significant differences in the results of
cTnThs between the two study groups.

Conclusion:

The relative change in the level of NT-pro BNP by at least 43,5% allows to identify the responders
to CRT after 12 months of follow-up. Serial measurements of NT-pro BNP can be a valuable tool for monitoring
the effectiveness of CRT.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Signaling Pathways: Activation and Diseases
Authors: Zheng Zhi , Shang Yuxi , Tao Jiahui , Zhang Jun , Sha Bingdong
Published: June 2019

Secretory and membrane proteins are folded in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) prior to their exit. When ER function is disturbed by exogenous and endogenous factors, such as heat shock, ultraviolet radiation, hypoxia, or hypoglycemia, the misfolded proteins may accumulate, promoting ER stress. To rescue this unfavorable situation, the unfolded protein response is activated to reduce misfolded proteins within the ER. Upon ER stress, the ER transmembrane sensor molecules inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1), RNA-dependent protein kinase (PKR)-like ER kinase (PERK), and activating transcription factor 6, are activated. Here, we discuss the mechanisms of PERK and IRE1 activation and describe two working models for ER stress initiation: the BiP-dependent model and the ligand-driven model. ER stress activation has been linked to multiple diseases, including cancers, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetes. Thus, the regulation of ER stress may provide potential therapeutic targets for these diseases.
Reduction of Autophagic Accumulation in Pompe Disease Mouse Model Following Gene Therapy
Authors: McCall Angela L. , Stankov Sylvia G. , Cowen Gabrielle , Cloutier Denise , Zhang Zizhao , Yang Lin , Clement Nathalie , Falk Darin J. , Byrne Barry J.
Published: June 2019

Background::

Pompe disease is a fatal neuromuscular disorder caused by a deficiency in acid α-glucosidase, an enzyme responsible for glycogen degradation in the lysosome. Currently, the only approved treatment for Pompe disease is enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), which increases patient survival, but does not fully correct the skeletal muscle pathology. Skeletal muscle pathology is not corrected with ERT because low cation-independent mannose-6-phosphate receptor abundance and autophagic accumulation inhibits the enzyme from reaching the lysosome. Thus, a therapy that more efficiently targets skeletal muscle pathology, such as adeno-associated virus (AAV), is needed for Pompe disease.

Objective::

The goal of this project was to deliver a rAAV9-coGAA vector driven by a tissue restrictive promoter will efficiently transduce skeletal muscle and correct autophagic accumulation.

Methods::

Thus, rAAV9-coGAA was intravenously delivered at three doses to 12-week old Gaa-/- mice. 1 month after injection, skeletal muscles were biochemically and histologically analyzed for autophagy-related markers.

Results::

At the highest dose, GAA enzyme activity and vacuolization scores achieved therapeutic levels. In addition, resolution of autophagosome (AP) accumulation was seen by immunofluorescence and western blot analysis of autophagy-related proteins. Finally, mice treated at birth demonstrated persistence of GAA expression and resolution of lysosomes and APs compared to those treated at 3 months.

Conclusion::

In conclusion, a single systemic injection of rAAV9-coGAA ameliorates vacuolar accumulation and prevents autophagic dysregulation.
Progress in Pediatric Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Smith Jodi M. , Dharnidharka Vikas R.
Published: June 2019

Significant progress has been made in pediatric kidney transplantation. Advances in immunosuppression have dramatically decreased rates of acute rejection leading to improved short term graft survival but similar improvements in long term graft survival remain elusive. Changes in allocation policy provide the pediatric population with timely access to transplant but there remains concern about the impact of less HLA matching and a decrease in living donors. This report presents data from North America on these successes and the ongoing challenges that face the pediatric transplant community.
Sexuality and Reproductive Health Counseling in Adolescent Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: Isa F. Ashoor , Ryan H. Pasternak
Published: June 2019

Normal adolescence marks a period of significant physical, cognitive and psychosocial change. It is
characterized by transition from concrete to abstract thought processes and concern for risk taking behaviors. Adolescents
and young adults with chronic conditions are at a particular disadvantage and tend to be more vulnerable to risky behavior
than their healthy peers.

While there currently exists no information on the burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in adolescent renal
transplant recipients, they present a particularly worrisome population as they are likely to engage in risk taking behavior
when they feel “normal” following transplantation to compensate for poor quality of life endured on dialysis. This is
further compounded by adolescents’ false perception that they are unlikely to acquire such infections, and the likely
improvement in libido and sexual functioning after transplantation. The potential for acquiring a sexually transmitted
infection is concerning given their immunocompromised status, and complex treatment regimens which might have
unfavorable interactions with STI treatments.

Also, unintentional pregnancy is likely to have a significant impact on their overall medical condition and social
functioning thereby impacting their long term allograft outcomes. As the pediatric nephrologist assumes a primary care
provider role for these patients following their renal transplant, it becomes increasingly important to be familiar with basic
reproductive health counseling techniques and available contraceptive methods on the market. Until consensus guidelines and
specific recommendations for reproductive health counseling are developed for adolescent renal transplant recipients, this
review provides a brief summary of available knowledge in those areas.
The Diagnosis and Treatment of Vesicoureteral Reflux: An Update
Authors: Rensing Adam , Austin Paul
Published: June 2019

Vesicoureteral reflux [VUR] remains a common problem seen by pediatric providers. Despite a great deal of research, the debate regarding how to screen and treat patients reremains tense and controversial. This review seeks to summarize the management of VUR with emphasis on recent published findings in the literature and how they contribute to this debate. The goals of managing VUR include preventing future febrile urinary tract infections [FUTI], renal scarring, reflux nephropathy and hypertension. The topdown approach with upper tract imaging and selective vesicocystourethrogram [VCUG] is an emerging alternative approach in the evaluation of children after their first FUTI. The elimination of bladder and bowel dysfunction [BBD] is an important management strategy to prevent further FUTIs, regardless of treatment choice. Antibiotic prophylaxis is a safe and effective modality to sterilize the urinary tract. Endoscopic treatment of VUR is an attractive modality in select patients, although some concerns remain regarding its effectiveness and durability as compared to to the gold standard of open or laparoscopic ureteroneocystostomy. Lastly, further research is required to determine the most effective algorithm to evaluate the pediatric patient after the first febrile UTI.
New Reservoir Grading Method for Tight Gas Reservoir – One Case Study
in Kekeya Block, Tuha Basin, China
Authors: Wu Fangfang , Zhang Jinchuan , Li Liuzhong , Wu Jinlong
Published: June 2019

Tight sand reservoir is usually characterized by high heterogeneity and complex pore structure, which makes
the permeability calculation a big challenge and leads to difficulties in reservoir classification and productivity evaluation.
First, five different Hydraulic Flow Units and respective Porosity-permeability relations were built based on core dataset
from Kekeya block, Tuha Basin; and then with BP Neutron Network method, flow unit was classified for un-cored intervals
using normalized logging data, and permeability was calculated accordingly. This improved the accuracy of permeability
calculation and helped a lot on un-cored reservoir evaluation. In addition, based on porosity, permeability and flow
unit type, a new reservoir grading chart was set up by incorporating the testing or production data, which provides important
guidance for productivity prediction and reservoir development.
Two Quantitative Evaluation Methods for Identifying the Migration
Pathways in Hydrocarbon Carrier: Application and Comparison
Authors: Kun Wang , Suyun Hu
Published: June 2019

Carrier is an important media linking source rocks and reservoirs. In the past two decades, it is the hot topic for
the hydrocarbon geology researchers. Migration pathways in carrier are main space for the hydrocarbon migration. The
identification of these pathways has great meaning for the hydrocarbon exploration. In this paper, we define a pathway as
a macroscopical area in any shape that relatively apparent hydrocarbon migration exists in the carrier according to some
research methods. The sandstone carrier of the Neogene Shawan formation and the unconformity carrier of the Cretaceous
being located in the Chepaizi uplift of the Junggar Basin (NW China) are selected as research objects. We used quantitative
grain fluorescence analysis (QGF) and effective migration thickness analysis (EMT) to quantitatively study these two
kinds of pathways. Migration characteristics of the hydrocarbons are analyzed in single wells and in plane. Analysis results
show that evaluation and prediction results from two methods are very similar. This verifies the feasibility of those
methods for pathways analysis. Based on the calibration of commercial oil flow well, distribution of migration pathways
in plane is obtained, which narrow down the exploration areas. Through practical application, the application process and
the considerations of the two methods are discussed and compared. For sandstone carrier, the thickness can be obtained
from well logging reports and well logging diagrams. Precondition that the samples collected are located in the carrier interval
in QGF analysis is needed. For unconformity carrier, identification of the unconformity surfaces is an important
basic work. Increasing the sampling density can reduce the analytical errors caused by the inhomogeneous distribution of
oil. EMT method is simple; however, the precondition for application is that the oil in the carrier is not too light and is
well preserved in geology history.
Determinants of Health Literacy and Healthy Lifestyle against Metabolic Syndrome among Major Ethnic Groups of Sarawak, Malaysia: A Multi-Group Path Analysis
Authors: Froze S. , Arif M. T. , R. Saimon
Published: June 2019

Introduction:

Non-communicable diseases like metabolic syndrome can be prevented and controlled by practicing healthy lifestyle.

Although health literacy is a critical factor in lifestyle modification to prevent non-communicable diseases and its complications, its role on metabolic syndrome prevention is still understudied.

Objective:

The main aim of this study was to identify the determinants of health literacy and healthy lifestyle practice against metabolic syndrome among multi-ethnic group of Sarawak based on health literacy skills framework.

Methods:

Using a stratified multistage sampling, a total of 1006 respondents were recruited to represent the major ethnic groups in Sarawak, Malaysia. Moderator variables, mediator variables and outcome variable (healthy lifestyle practice) were tested using path analysis to examine multiple and interrelated dependence relationships. Multi-group analysis was performed to compare structural models between major ethnic groups in Sarawak, namely Malay/Melanau, Native groups and Chinese.

Results:

Female respondents and those with higher education status were more likely to have better healthy lifestyle practice. Greater level of health literacy was positively significant with both disease knowledge and healthy lifestyle practice. Participants with good understanding of disease knowledge can directly influence healthy lifestyle. Simultaneously, health literacy and metabolic syndrome knowledge can mediate the relationship between sociodemographic variables, service accessibility, medical and family history with practice of healthy lifestyle. Multi-group path analysis indicated differences in causal pathway leading to healthy lifestyle practice among the ethnic groups.

Conclusion:

Health programs or interventions to increase health literacy skills and better understanding of metabolic syndrome will improve practice of healthy lifestyle. Culturally sensitive multidimensional approaches are needed to ensure health-related information can be delivered effectively across the state.
Using Mobile Devices to Deliver Lifestyle Interventions Targeting At-Risk High School Students: Protocol for a Participatory Design Study (Preprint)
Authors: Müssener Ulrika , Löf Marie , Bendtsen Preben , Bendtsen Marcus
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Unhealthy lifestyle behaviors such as insufficient physical activity, unhealthy diet, smoking, and harmful use of alcohol tend to cluster (ie, individuals may be at risk from more than one lifestyle behavior that can be established in early childhood and adolescence and track into adulthood). Previous research has underlined the potential of lifestyle interventions delivered via mobile phones. However, there is a need for deepened knowledge on how to design mobile health (mHealth) interventions taking end user views into consideration in order to optimize the overall usability of such interventions. Adolescents are early adopters of technology and frequent users of mobile phones, yet research on interventions that use mobile devices to deliver multiple lifestyle behavior changes targeting at-risk high school students is lacking.

OBJECTIVE

This protocol describes a participatory design study with the aim of developing an mHealth lifestyle behavior intervention to promote healthy lifestyles among high school students.

METHODS

Through an iterative process using participatory design, user requirements are investigated in terms of technical features and content. The procedures around the design and development of the intervention, including heuristic evaluations, focus group interviews, and usability tests, are described.

RESULTS

Recruitment started in May 2019. Data collection, analysis, and scientific reporting from heuristic evaluations and usability tests are expected to be completed in November 2019. Focus group interviews were being undertaken with high school students from October through December, and full results are expected to be published in Spring 2020. A planned clinical trial will commence in Summer 2020. The study was funded by a grant from the Swedish Research Council for Health, Working Life, and Welfare.

CONCLUSIONS

The study is expected to add knowledge on how to design an mHealth intervention taking end users’ views into consideration in order to develop a novel, evidence-based, low-cost, and scalable intervention that high school students want to use in order to achieve a healthier lifestyle.