bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene regulatory network controlling carpel number variation in cucumber
Authors: Che Gen , Gu Ran , Zhao Jianyu , Liu Xiaofeng , Song Xiaofei , Zi Hailing , Cheng Zhihua , Shen Junjun , Wang Zhongyi , Liu Renyi , Yan Liying , Weng Yiqun , Zhang Xiaolan
Published: March 2020

The WUSCHEL-CLAVATA3 pathway genes play an essential role in shoot apical meristem maintenance and floral organ development, and under intense selection during crop domestication. The carpel number is an important fruit trait that affects fruit shape, size and internal quality in cucumber, but the molecular mechanism remains elusive. Here, we found that CsCLV3 expression was negatively correlated with carpel number in cucumber cultivars. CsCLV3-RNAi led to increased number of petals and carpels, whereas overexpression of CsWUS resulted in more sepals, petals and carpels, suggesting that CsCLV3 and CsWUS function as a negative and a positive regulator for carpel number variation, respectively. Biochemical analyses indicated that CsWUS directly bound to the promoter of CsCLV3 and activated its expression. Overexpression of CsFUL1A, a FRUITFULL-like MADS-box gene, resulted in more petals and carpels. CsFUL1A can directly bind to the CsWUS promoter to stimulate its expression. Furthermore, we found that auxin participated in carpel number variation in cucumber through interaction of CsARF14 with CsWUS. Therefore, we have identified a gene regulatory pathway involving CsCLV3, CsWUS, CsFUL1A and CsARF14 in determining carpel number variation in an important vegetable crop – cucumber.
Role of nutrient-driven O-GlcNAc-post-translational modification in pancreatic exocrine and endocrine islet development
Authors: Baumann Daniel , Wong Alicia , Akhaphong Brian , Jo Seokwon , Pritchard Samantha , Mohan Ramkumar , Chung Grace , Zhang Ying , Alejandro Emilyn U.
Published: March 2020

Although the developing pancreas is exquisitely sensitive to nutrient supply in utero, it is not entirely clear how nutrient-driven post-translational modification of proteins impacts the pancreas during development. We hypothesized that the nutrient-sensing enzyme O-GlcNAc transferase (Ogt), which catalyzes an O-GlcNAc-modification onto key target proteins, integrates nutrient-signaling networks to regulate cell survival and development. In this study, we investigated the heretofore unknown role of Ogt in exocrine and endocrine islet development. By genetic manipulation in vivo and by using morphometric and molecular analyses, such as immunofluorescence imaging and single cell RNA sequencing, we show the first evidence that Ogt regulates pancreas development. Genetic deletion of Ogt in the pancreatic epithelium (OgtKOPanc) causes pancreatic hypoplasia, in part by increased apoptosis and reduced levels of of Pdx1 protein. Transcriptomic analysis of single cell and bulk RNA sequencing uncovered cell-type heterogeneity and predicted upstream regulator proteins that mediate cell survival, including Pdx1, Ptf1a and p53, which are putative Ogt targets. In conclusion, these findings underscore the requirement of O-GlcNAcylation during pancreas development and show that Ogt is essential for pancreatic progenitor survival, providing a novel mechanistic link between nutrients and pancreas development.
Phenotypic flexibility of metabolic rate and evaporative water loss does not vary across a climatic gradient in an Afrotropical passerine bird
Authors: Noakes Matthew J. , McKechnie Andrew E.
Published: March 2020

Small birds inhabiting northern temperate and boreal latitudes typically increase metabolic rates during cold winters or acclimation to low air temperatures (Taccl). Recent studies suggest considerable variation in patterns of seasonal metabolic acclimatization in birds from subtropical and tropical regions with milder winters, but there remains a dearth of acclimation studies investigating metabolic flexibility among lower-latitude birds. We used short-term thermal acclimation experiments to investigate phenotypic flexibility in basal metabolic rate (BMR), thermoneutral evaporative water loss (EWL) and summit metabolism (Msum) in three populations of white-browed sparrow-weavers (Plocepasser mahali) along a climatic and aridity gradient. We allocated individuals to one of three Taccl treatments (5 °C, 20 °C and 35 °C; n=11 per population per Taccl) for 28 days, and measured post-acclimation BMR, EWL and Msum using flow-through respirometry. Our data reveal the expected pattern of lower BMR and EWL (∼ 12 % and 25 % lower respectively) in birds at Taccl=35 °C compared to cooler Taccl treatments, as observed in previous acclimation studies on subtropical birds. We found no variation in the reaction norms of BMR and EWL among populations in response to acclimation, suggesting previously documented differences in seasonal BMR acclimatization are the result of phenotypic flexibility. In contrast to higher-latitude species, Msum did not significantly vary in response to thermal acclimation. These findings support the idea that factors other than enhancing cold tolerance may be driving patterns of metabolic variation in subtropical birds.
Characterization of Calcium Ion Release from a Polymer-Coated Electrode with a Plasticized PVC Membrane Containing Calcium Salts, and Its Contraction Examination of Vorticella Convallaria
Authors: Nakamura Fumiya , Nakayama Taisei , Kageyama Itsuki , Kato Ryo , Nagai Moeto , Shibata Takayuki , Sawada Kazuaki , Hattori Toshiaki
Published: March 2020

Up to now several bio-imaging methods have taken very good pictures and/or recordings. With bio-imaging growing, a micro-stimulation method to limit in a fine region is required. Conventional chemical stimulation methods face difficulty in fulfilling this requirement, however, an electrochemical device is a potential response to this issue. This paper reports on the fabrication and the use of an electrochemical Ca2+-releasing device. The device consists of a three-layer electrode, including two transducers, a PVC membrane, PEDOT layer, and gold or carbon. The dynamic behavior of Ca2+ released from the device is evaluated by a two-dimensional 16 K pixel array Ca2+ image sensor, and is simulated using a diffusion model of Ca2+. Both experimental and calculated time and distance dependent profiles are almost in agreement when the PVC membrane is thin. As its biological application, a permeabilized Vorticella convallaria was set at a distance of ca. 0.1 mm from the Ca2+-releasing device. There was no response for some time just after switching-on, and then it gradually contracted. The gradual contraction after the interval proved that the Ca2+-releasing device can be used as a soft insertion based on the concentration diffusion.
The Effect of Exercise on Gene Expression and Signaling in Mouse Melanoma Tumors
Authors: XIA ZHI , SHANG HUAYU , CHOLEWA JASON , WANG QIANJIN , DING XIAOMIN , SU QUANSHENG , ZHAO YAN , ZANCHI NELO EIDY
Published: March 2020

Purpose

To screen for candidate hub genes associated with the effects of exercise on melanoma tumor tissues and to review the potential signaling pathways involved in this process using bioinformatics analysis.

Methods

The GSE62628 expression profile was downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus database. This data set contains 10 melanoma tumor tissues from two groups of exercise and nonexercise mice. The R software was utilized to identify differentially expressed genes between samples, and functional annotation and pathway analysis were performed. Results were visualized using Cytoscape software.

Results

In total, 315 differentially expressed genes were obtained, including 294 upregulated and 21 downregulated genes. The functional analysis showed that these genes were mainly enriched in immune response, inflammatory response, and positive regulation of the ERK1/2 cascade in biological process functional groups. The top 10 candidate hub genes were C3, Kng1, C3ar1, Ptafr, Fgg, Alb, Pf4, Orm1, Aldh3b1, and Apob. The pathway analysis of the most significant module identified from the protein–protein interaction network revealed that the complement and coagulation cascades, Staphylococcus aureus infection, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, chemokine signaling pathway and phagosome were mainly involved. C3, C3ar1, Kng1, Ptafr, and Fgg may be the critical genes in the complement and coagulation cascades pathway, and S. aureus in the infection pathway.

Conclusions

Exercise may ameliorate the immune response and inflammatory response in melanoma tissue, and further studies exploring their relationships are warranted.
Diagnosis of Exercise-induced Bronchoconstriction in Swimmers: Context Matters
Authors: LEAHY MICHAEL GEORGE , PETERS CARLI M. , GEARY CAITLIN M. , KOEHLE MICHAEL S. , MCKENZIE DONALD C. , BROTHERHOOD JAMES , SHEEL A. WILLIAM
Published: March 2020

Swimmers have a high prevalence of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), which may be associated with repeated exposure to chlorinated pool water. The eucapnic voluntary hyperpnea (EVH) test is used to diagnose EIB; however, it fails to replicate the environmental conditions experienced by swimmers. The relationship between the composition of the EVH inspired gas and the development of EIB from swim exercise remains unclear.

Purpose

This study aimed to compare the bronchoconstrictive effect of a chlorinated inspirate EVH test and swim test to a laboratory-based EVH test in swimmers.

Methods

Fifteen collegiate swimmers (n = 5 male, n = 10 female; 21 ± 2 yr) completed 3 d of testing in pseudorandom order; a standard EVH test (EVHL), a pool air EVH test (EVHCl), and a swimming test (Swim). Spirometry was measured at baseline, and 3, 5, 10, 15, and 20 min after each test.

Results

EVHL elicited a forced expired volume in 1 s (FEV1) fall index of −9.7% ± 6.4% compared with −6.6% ± 9.2% and −3.0% ± 7.5% after EVHCl and Swim, respectively (P < 0.05). Using Bland–Altman analysis, we found good agreement between EVHL and EVHCl (bias = −2.8, r = 0.79; P < 0.05) with poor agreement between EVHL and Swim (bias = −6.7, r = 0.20) and between EVHCl and Swim (bias = −3.9, r = 0.50; both P < 0.05). Forced expired flow between 25% and 75% lung volume and peak expired flow were significantly reduced by the EVHL compared with the EVHCl and Swim tests (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

EVHL elicits a greater forced expired volume in 1-s fall index compared with EVHCl and Swim. The unique aquatic environment of swimmers potentially protects against bronchoconstriction and should be considered in the determination of EIB.
Evaluation of antioxidant, antibacterial and wound healing activities of Vitex pinnata
Authors: Shafie Nurul Ashifah , Suhaili Nur Atiqah , Taha Hussein , Ahmad Norhayati
Published: March 2020

Background: Vitex pinnata is one of the many plants known for its ethnomedicinal properties. However, the pharmacological properties of this plant have not been well studied. This study aims to determine the antioxidant, antimicrobial and wound healing properties of the methanolic extract of the leaves and the hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions.   

Methods: The leaves of Vitex pinnata underwent methanol extraction and the methanol extract was fractionated with hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate solvents. The antioxidant activity was determined using the DPPH radical scavenging assay. The antimicrobial activity was assessed by disc diffusion assay against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. For the wound healing studies, the methanolic extracts of V. pinnata were used to prepare ointments with compositions of 10% (w/w) and 50% (w/w), which were evaluated for wound healing activity in an excision wound model in Wistar rats.

Results: All the extracts showed antioxidant activities, with the ethyl acetate extract having the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity, followed by the methanol, chloroform and hexane extracts. Similarly, their quercetin equivalent concentrations were 33.1, 31, 20.3 and 4.5 mg/mL, respectively. Except for the methanol extract, the disc diffusion assay showed that the extracts demonstrated species-specific antibacterial activities, with the ethyl acetate extract showing antibacterial activities against all four tested strains. The wound healing activity of the high dose treated group (50% [w/w]) shows significant increase of wound contraction when compared to the control group.

Conclusion: In the current study, the ethyl acetate extract showed activity for all tested bacteria and also had the highest DPPH activity. The methanolic extracts of V. pinnata leaves show modest wound healing activity in an excision wound model.
Cost-effectiveness of reflex laboratory-based cryptococcal antigen screening for the prevention and treatment of cryptococcal meningitis in Botswana
Authors: Tenforde Mark W. , Muthoga Charles , Callaghan Andrew , Ponatshego Ponego , Ngidi Julia , Mine Madisa , Jordan Alexander , Chiller Tom , Larson Bruce A. , Jarvis Joseph N.
Published: March 2020

Background: Cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening for antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naïve adults with advanced HIV/AIDS can reduce the incidence of cryptococcal meningitis (CM) and all-cause mortality. We modeled the cost-effectiveness of laboratory-based “reflex” CrAg screening for ART-naïve CrAg-positive patients with CD4<100 cells/µL (those currently targeted in guidelines) and ART-experienced CrAg-positive patients with CD4<100 cells/µL (who make up an increasingly large proportion of individuals with advanced HIV/AIDS).

Methods: A decision analytic model was developed to evaluate CrAg screening and treatment based on local CD4 count and CrAg prevalence data, and realistic assumptions regarding programmatic implementation of the CrAg screening intervention. We modeled the number of CrAg tests performed, the number of CrAg positives stratified by prior ART experience, the proportion of patients started on pre-emptive antifungal treatment, and the number of incident CM cases and CM-related deaths. Screening and treatment costs were evaluated, and cost per death or disability-adjusted life year (DALY) averted estimated.

Results: We estimated that of 650,000 samples undergoing CD4 testing annually in Botswana, 16,364 would have a CD4<100 cells/µL and receive a CrAg test, with 70% of patients ART-experienced at the time of screening. Under base model assumptions, CrAg screening and pre-emptive treatment restricted to ART-naïve patients with a CD4<100 cells/µL prevented 20% (39/196) of CM-related deaths in patients undergoing CD4 testing at a cost of US$2 per DALY averted. Expansion of preemptive treatment to include ART-experienced patients with a CD4<100 cells/µL resulted in 55 additional deaths averted (a total of 48% [94/196]) and was cost-saving compared to no screening. Findings were robust across a range of model assumptions.

Conclusions: Reflex laboratory-based CrAg screening for patients with CD4<100 cells/µL is a cost-effective strategy in Botswana, even in the context of a relatively low proportion of advanced HIV/AIDS in the overall HIV-infected population, the majority of whom are ART-experienced.
Economic evaluations of human schistosomiasis interventions: a systematic review and identification of associated research needs
Authors: Turner Hugo C. , French Michael D. , Montresor Antonio , King Charles H. , Rollinson David , Toor Jaspreet
Published: March 2020

Background: Schistosomiasis is one of the most prevalent neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) with an estimated 229 million people requiring preventive treatment worldwide. Recommendations for preventive chemotherapy strategies have been made by the World Health Organization (WHO) whereby the frequency of treatment is determined by the settings prevalence. Despite recent progress, many countries still need to scale up treatment and important questions remain regarding optimal control strategies. This paper presents a systematic review of the economic evaluations of human schistosomiasis interventions.

Methods: A systematic review of the literature was conducted on 22nd August 2019 using the PubMed (MEDLINE) and ISI Web of Science electronic databases. The focus was economic evaluations of schistosomiasis interventions, such as cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit analyses. No date or language stipulations were applied to the searches.

Results: We identified 53 relevant health economic analyses of schistosomiasis interventions. Most studies related to Schistosoma japonicum followed by S. haematobium. Several studies also included other NTDs. In Africa, most studies evaluated preventive chemotherapy, whereas in China they mostly evaluated programmes using a combination of interventions (such as chemotherapy, snail control and health education). There was wide variation in the methodology and epidemiological settings investigated. A range of effectiveness metrics were used by the different studies.

Conclusions: Due to the variation across the identified studies, it was not possible to make definitive policy recommendations. Although, in general, the current WHO recommended preventive chemotherapy approach to control schistosomiasis was found to be cost-effective. This finding has important implications for policymakers, advocacy groups and potential funders. However, there are several important inconsistencies and research gaps (such as how the health benefits of interventions are quantified) that need to be addressed to identify the resources required to achieve schistosomiasis control and elimination.
Fractional Degree Stochastic Dominance
Authors: Huang Rachel J. , Tzeng Larry Y. , Zhao Lin
Published: March 2020

We develop a continuum of stochastic dominance rules for expected utility maximizers. The new rules encompass the traditional integer-degree stochastic dominance; between adjacent integer degrees, they formulate the consensus of individuals whose absolute risk aversion at the corresponding integer degree has a negative lower bound. By extending the concept of “uniform risk aversion” previously proposed in the literature to high-order risk preferences, we interpret the fractionalized degree parameter as a benchmark individual relative to whom all considered individuals are uniformly no less risk averse in the lottery choices. The equivalent distribution conditions for the new rules are provided, and the fractional degree “increase in risk” is defined. We generalize the previously defined notion of “risk apportionment” and demonstrate its usefulness in characterizing comparative statics of risk changes in fractional degrees.

This paper was accepted by David Simchi-Levi, decision analysis.
The European Society of Cardiology and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes: guidelines for diabetes and cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Linden Belinda
Published: March 2020

Belinda Linden presents a quarterly overview of recently published guidance of relevance to cardiovascular nursing. The significant link between diabetes and cardiovascular disease is reviewed in this update
Managing conversations with patients about death and dying
Authors: Hussain Feryad A
Published: March 2020

Caring for patients who are dying is both a challenging and demanding role. This is further intensified by the expectation that in addition to attending to physical issues, nurses are expected to manage the emotional and psychological aspects of the situation. The inconsistent nature of the care pathways between differing specialist services can often mean that open access to specialist services is not possible. As such, staff may find themselves inadvertently supplementing and often reinforcing interventions offered by specialist (psychological) services with little consideration given to capacity, experience and resources. As the most ‘consistently present’ professionals in such settings, it is important for nursing colleagues to be aware of the emotional and psychological themes common to patients who are dying. Thus, allowing patients access to supportive conversation with professionals as and when required, ameliorating unnecessary distress.
What's wrong with ‘seeing the person first’?
Authors: Cameron Colin , Lingwood Louise
Published: March 2020

Person-first thinking makes it a virtue to ‘see the person, not the disability’, overlooking, or making an effort to overlook, a person's impairment in order to see ‘the person within’. This might seem a caring and compassionate approach in everyday nursing practice, but on closer examination it can be seen as unhelpful and even discriminatory. This article considers why this should be the case and introduces the affirmation model as a basis for a different way of thinking about the issue.
Point-of-care testing by paramedics using a portable laboratory: an evaluation
Authors: Heaney Katy , Whiting Kerry , Petley Lynda , Fry Ian , Newton Andy
Published: March 2020

Use of point-of-care testing (POCT) equipment by paramedics for triage may reduce unnecessary attendance in emergency departments and inconvenience to patients. A hospital pathology service and an ambulance trust wanted a system for safe and effective use of diagnostic devices by paramedics at the patient bedside. A suite of POCT devices to perform an expanded repertoire of pathology tests was provided, along with technology for electronic data capture, temperature control and monitoring, in a specially designed kit bag—the Labkit. Following a proof-of-concept phase, three Labkit bags were deployed as a pilot in rapid response vehicles and used by specialist paramedics in urgent and emergency care who had been trained in their use. The paramedics used the bag in 25% of patient interactions, typically three times every 24 hours. Having POCT results available at the time of paramedic assessment reduced conveyance to the emergency department by 21%. There was also a 10% rise in admission of patients where pathology results indicated problems that required urgent treatment which would otherwise have gone unnoticed. Overall, 31% of conveyance decisions were changed as a direct consequence of the Labkit results. Patients reported high levels of satisfaction, and paramedics said it added value in 97% of cases where it was used to support decision-making. Reliable, quality-assured POCT by paramedics has the potential to improve efficiency in the healthcare system and benefit patients.
Managing pain in oncology
Authors: Jain Rohit
Published: March 2020

Pain is one of the most common symptoms in cancer and almost all patients experience pain at various stages of the disease. Despite the high prevalence of these symptoms and various international guidelines that are in place for management, there is still a gap between the pain management approaches and achieving satisfactory pain relief. A holistic approach is required for effective management, which not only includes the pain-relieving medications but should also contain various complementary procedures to treat cancer pain and improve patients' quality of life.
Supporting shared decision making in general practice
Authors: Finnikin Sam
Published: March 2020

Sam Finnikin discusses the growing attention on promoting shared decision making and personalised healthcare across the NHS
Is your primary care network ready for new members?
Authors: Cumberlege Justin
Published: March 2020

Justin Cumberlege, a partner in the healthcare law firm Hempsons, suggests how Primary Care Networks should prepare to work with other providers
Screening for the Sickle Cell Trait in Schools is more Efficient than during the Pre-Nuptial Period for the Prevention of Sickle Cell Anemia in a Sub-Saharan Africa Country. [Sickle Cell Trait Scree-ning and Sickle Cell Anemia Prevention in Sub-Saharan Africa]
Authors: Muteb Paul Boma , Luntadila Stéphanie Ngimbi , Maurice Ndeme Bongali , Mamba Jean Fidèle Kaluila , Magwandji Ada Kalunda , Mulefu Jules Panda , Somwe Somwe Wa , Diallo Dapa Aly
Published: March 2020

Sickle cell disease is a hereditary disease of hemoglobin which has been declared a public health priority by international health decision-making institutions. Among strategies to combat this disease, WHO recommends a reduction of births with sickle cell anemia through awareness and screening for the sickle cell gene in countries where the sickle cell gene is prevalent. Approaches to make this strategy efficient in Sub-Saharan Africa have not been studied. This study aim was to evaluate the efficacy of screening for the sickle cell gene for the primary prevention of sickle cell anemia among two target populations in a country of Sub-Saharan Africa.
This was a prospective study comprising a free and voluntary screening for the sickle cell gene at various intervals, then to evaluate the impact of the screening on engagement or marriage decision-making on two target populations following raising awareness of sickle cell disease. Data was collected through a questionnaire administered at the headquarters of the NGO SS Assistance in Lubumbashi or by phone. 136 pupils with SCT and 111 married couples despite being screened for SCT during engagement were the subject of the study.
In the target group of 136 SCT carriers (AS) in schools, 49 (48%) were married with an AA partner, 53 were engaged among whom 42 with an AA partner, 3 with an AS partner and 8 with a partner with an undetermined hemoglobin phenotype, 34 did not have any commitment. 91 (67%) pupils with SCT avoided a risk for SCA birth. Among the 111 couples married despite their screening as SCT carriers during pre-marital tests, 7 (6, 3%) have not registered SCA birth but 104 (93.7%) had 141 SCA births (extremes: 1 and 3 per couple).
Sickle cell gene screening in a population without engagement or marriage plans is more productive than that conducted in the prenuptial period. However, results highlight the need to conduct more studies on sickle cell gene screening in Sub-Saharan Africa with the best strategies to reduce the psychological, social and economic burden of such studies especially when adults are targeted.
Raman silicon laser based on a nanocavity fabricated by photolithography
Authors: Yasuda Takamasa , Okano Makoto , Ohtsuka Minoru , Seki Miyoshi , Yokoyama Nobuyuki , Takahashi Yasushi
Published: March 2020

Fabricating silicon photonics devices by CMOS-compatible processes is important for applications. Here, we demonstrate a Raman silicon laser based on a heterostructure nanocavity that was fabricated by immersion photolithography using an argon fluoride excimer laser. The Raman laser confines the pump light and the Stokes Raman scattered light in two resonant modes of the nanocavity. By using the presented CMOS-compatible approach, sufficiently high quality-factors can be obtained for both modes. The sample whose frequency spacing of the two resonant modes closely matches the Raman shift of silicon, achieves continuous-wave oscillation with a lasing threshold of 1.8 µW at room temperature.
Ethnic media as alternative media for South Asians in Metro Vancouver, Canada: Creating knowledge, engagement, civic and political awareness
Authors: Bukhari Syeda Nayab
Published: March 2020

South Asians, making 11% of the total population of Metro Vancouver, have established a large number of ethnic media sources including exclusive 24/7 radio stations, several newspapers, magazines, and online media in different South Asian languages for their audience. This qualitative research study of ethnic media of South Asian communities living in Metro Vancouver, reveals that ethnic media, specifically radio, provided active media space for discussion and dialogue on crucial issues concerning their everyday life challenges as ‘immigrant communities’. According to the participants, ethnic media triggered political activism and awareness through their content, especially due to mainstream media’s failure of coverage or negative coverage of ethnic minorities. This qualitative study uses in-depth interviews with thirteen South Asian ethnic media practitioners including media owners, journalists, and anchorpersons, as well as focus group discussions with South Asian audiences in Metro Vancouver. The article discusses the role of South Asian ethnic media, as alternative media, in creating knowledge, engagement, civic and political awareness, and giving a participatory platform to raise the voices of their audiences.
By any means: Paths to sustainability for Argentina’s community radio stations
Authors: Fisher Pablo
Published: March 2020

During 2016 and 2017 the Centro de Producciones Radiofónicas (CPR-CEPPAS) conducted a research project on the ways 11 community radio stations in Argentina generate and manage financial resources. We selected a comprehensive sample with different types of community radio stations and used UNESCO's Media Development Indicators as a starting point. The main goal of the investigation was to deepen our knowledge about the relationship between community radio stations and the market, taking into account work, financial planning and management. We approached the radio stations with the understanding that their sustainability could be measured on multiple levels, not only financially, but also by putting special attention to the economic aspect of sustainability. We draw regularities, identified strengths and weaknesses, and pointed out creative fundraising methods. Our main conclusion is that the multiplicity and diversity of funding sources is a distinctive element of the definition of community radio.
Educação, Mortalidade e Natalidade em Hannah Arendt
Authors: Briskievicz Danilo Arnaldo
Published: March 2020

Partimos da questão identificada por Hannah Arendt em relação ao pensamento ocidental, que é a profunda conexidade entre a filosofia e a mortalidade. Esclarecemos os impactos dessa centralidade para a vida em comum em geral e para a educação em particular, partindo da análise dessa afinidade entre a mortalidade e a filosofia em autores como Platão, Montaigne, Schopenhauer e Heidegger. Para compreender e superar essa relação, Arendt cria e consolida a noção de natalidade como cerne da filosofia e, por consequência, da educação. Analisamos como a natalidade se amalgama à educação como a entende Arendt. Assim, descrevemos como a educação é afetada pela noção de natalidade tendo como pano de fundo a teoria da ação descrita no livro A condição humana. Trata-se de uma metodologia de pesquisa bibliográfica que pretende destacar o conflito filosófico entre a mortalidade e a natalidade e esclarecer seus impactos na concepção arendtiana de educação.
Práticas Docentes e Representações Sociais: O Ser Professor na Educação Infantil
Authors: Leão Maia Licia De Souza , Santos da Costa Kiara Tatianny
Published: March 2020

Este trabalho tem como objetivo ampliar a discussão sobre as relações entre as representações sociais e as práticas docentes, analisando as representações e práticas das professoras da Educação Infantil em cinco cidades do interior da Paraíba, nordeste do Brasil. Como referencial teórico e metodológico, adotamos a abordagem estrutural das representações sociais fundamentada na Teoria do Núcleo Central de Abric. Foram utilizados, como procedimentos metodológicos, o questionário de associação livre de palavras e a entrevista de autoconfrontação simples. O primeiro instrumento foi aplicado com 86 participantes nos cinco municípios da Paraíba (Juazeirinho, Assunção, Junco, Soledade e Campina Grande), tendo sido o segundo aplicado com oito professoras das cidades elencadas acima. Os resultados apontam a existência de uma relação entre o que pensam as professoras, as representações sociais e sua ação em sala de aula. A análise dos dados aponta para a tese da existência de uma relação entre as representações sociais e a prática docente. Isso nos leva a acreditar na possibilidade de mudança das representações sociais a partir de uma reflexão sobre a prática.
A que futuro conduz o “Currículo do Futuro”? Acerca da premência de inovar na educação escolar
Authors: Damião Maria Helena
Published: March 2020

A ideia de que, em nome de um futuro melhor para a humanidade, é preciso mudar, de forma radical e imediata, o currículo da escola pública tem sido veiculada em múltiplos documentos produzidos neste século, por entidades ligadas aos sistemas de ensino. No presente trabalho, partindo de alguns desses documentos, explicita-se tal ideia, traduzida fundamentalmente na necessidade de levar os alunos a adquirir competências funcionais, a fim de se conseguir o desenvolvimento económico, a sustentabilidade e/ou o bem-estar social e pessoal. De seguida, interroga-se a viabilidade de construção de tal futuro, uma vez que o currículo se vê progressivamente despojado das grandes finalidades que norteiam a construção do humano, bem como dos conhecimentos disciplinares que concorrem para essa construção. Por fim, afirma-se que a linha de raciocínio seguida não declina a inovação, mas deve conduzir à sua ponderação, que terá de ser numa perspectiva especificamente educativa, nunca perdendo de vista os desígnios da escola contemporânea que, em nome do futuro, se quer para todos.
Recensão ao livro The privatization of education: A political economy of global education reform
Authors: Martins Erika Moreira
Published: March 2020

Recensão ao Livro: Verger, A., Fontdevila, C., & Zancajo, A. (2016). The privatization of education: A political economy of global education reform. New York, NY: Teachers College Press.

A privatização da educação tem sido percebida como uma tendência mundial, principalmente em referência aos seus indicadores educacionais fundamentais, como provisão e financiamento. Os debates sobre os benefícios, os desafios e os custos da privatização da educação em escalas local e global têm desafiado pesquisadores nacionais e internacionais. Nesse contexto, a obra The Privatization of Education: A Political Economy of Global Education Reform (A Privatização da Educação: uma economia política da reforma da educação global, em tradução livre), cujos autores são Antoni Verger, Clara Fontdevila e Adrián Zancajo, investiga o fenômeno da privatização da educação, não como um processo monolítico, mas a partir de uma perspetiva comparada e global da economia política. Contribui, desta forma, para suprir uma lacuna nos estudos a respeito do tema: como e por que ocorre a privatização da educação?

Partindo de um robusto mapeamento sobre a literatura internacional, os autores utilizam uma metodologia de revisão sistemática da literatura (Systematic literature review) na tentativa de explicar por que as pressões por uma reforma educacional em favor do mercado não se traduzem em um processo unívoco e linear. A obra se propõe a enfrentar o desafio de abrir a “caixa preta” da privatização da educação em escala internacional analisando sistematicamente suas tendências, suas razões, seus agentes e as condições por trás da difusão e adoção de políticas de privatização nos sistemas educativos.

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Revista Portuguesa de Pedagogia N. 53-1
Authors: Seixas Ana Maria
Published: March 2020

https://doi.org/10.14195/1647-8614_53-1
Egy „háborús bûnös” ludovikás sors a GULAG-on és a kádári Magyarországon
Authors: Babucs Zoltán
Published: March 2020

This paper presents a biography of a hungarian officer from the second world war. Ottó Koós was member of the Royal Hungarian Defence Forces (’honvédség’). After the war he was accused with war crimes by the soviets, and he was punished. In 1955 he was released from the soviet captivity. After that he spent nearly a year in a Hungarian prison. In the times of Kádár he lived as second class citizen.
Integratív gyermekvédelem a szociális munka ember-, kliensképének és a szülőség értelmezésének jegyében
Authors: Rácz Andrea , Bogács Ernő
Published: March 2020

The core aspect of the child welfare and protection thought focusing on the family, and channelling community resources, is that in order to preserve the unity of the family, it is necessary to widely introduce from the local community the services into the family’s life, thus mobilizing the internal resources of the family, and acknowledging parenting, as a social value. The present study examines which are the new directions in the child protection system, which are centred on social inclusion, and foresee a system of complex services. In order to perform this inquiry, we present the professional experiences of two model programs: 1) parental skill development programs; 2) phone application supporting the successful social integration of children and young adults in child care. The success of the presented innovations in child protection is further enhanced by the fact that these are initiatives built on the cooperation of several actors, addressing target group members, professionals working in child welfare and child protection system, representatives of associated fields, and decision-makers.
Natural History of Untreated HBeAg-Positive Chronic HBV Infection With Persistently Elevated HBV DNA but Normal Alanine Aminotransferase
Authors: Lee Hye Won , Kim Eun Hwa , Lee Jinae , Kim Seung Up , Park Jun Yong , Kim Do Young , Ahn Sang Hoon , Han Kwang-Hyub , Kim Beom Kyung
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVES:

Nucleos(t)ide analogues (NUCs) are not routinely recommended for patients with hepatitis B e antigen–positive chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection who have persistently elevated serum HBV DNA level (>20,000 IU/mL) but normal alanine aminotransferase (<40 IU/L) level. Here, we evaluated the cumulative risks of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in such patients (the untreated persistently elevated serum HBV DNA [pEDNA] group) compared with inactive carriers (the IC group).

METHODS:

Patients with untreated pEDNA (n = 126) and IC (n = 621) were enrolled between 2006 and 2012. Patients with cirrhosis or HCC at enrollment or a history of NUC treatment were excluded.

RESULTS:

The cumulative HCC risks at 5 and 9 years in the untreated pEDNA group were 1.1% and 1.9%, which were comparable with those of the IC group (P = 0.549). Inverse probability of treatment weighting and propensity score matching also showed similar HCC risks. In the untreated pEDNA group, there were no cases of HCC in the subgroup with serum HBV DNA level >1,000,000 IU/mL (immune-tolerant phase), which was significantly (P = 0.002) different compared with those with an intermediate serum HBV DNA level (20,000–1,000,000 IU/mL).

DISCUSSION:

The cumulative HCC risk in the untreated pEDNA group was minimal and comparable with that of the IC group. Further studies are required to determine whether early NUC treatment, indeed, reduces the HCC risk in patients with an intermediate serum HBV DNA level.
Música caipira de raiz e modelos de canções medievais
Authors: Santos Wilson Rogério , Barboza Rosilene Ribeiro dos Santos
Published: March 2020

O trabalho teve como propósito estudar o gênero musical caipira ou a música sertaneja de raiz no período compreendido entre 1929 e 1960. A partir de processos metodológicos qualitativos, tendo como instrumentos de coleta de dados a pesquisa bibliográfica e a análise de conteúdo, procurou-se estabelecer relações entre a canção caipira e as estruturas da poética medieval delimitada em um tratado poético denominado A Arte de Trovar ou Poética Fragmentária. Talvez esse estilo de música seja o que, atualmente, mais sofre pressão dos meios de comunicação de massa e da música comercial, desfigurando e comprometendo sua autenticidade, portanto, sua defesa e salvaguarda tornam-se pontos importantes na proteção da cultura brasileira. Como resultado foi possível estabelecer uma relação entre os modelos medievais e os tipos de canção compostos pelos músicos caipiras, demonstrando que, assim como o dialeto caipira, que tem raízes advindas do português arcaico, a música caipira de raiz também tem estrutura derivada da cultura ibérica.
Educação e moral na perspectiva republicana
Authors: Junges Fábio César , Brutti Tiago Anderson , Dorneles Elizabeth Fontoura
Published: March 2020

Ao tematizar a condição humana, o sistema educacional e os critérios e propósitos de uma Constituição republicana, este artigo, de caráter exploratório e bibliográfico, articula as arguições de Sêneca e de Rousseau sobre os temas da moral e da educação; as considerações de Tugendhat a respeito dos sentidos em que se pode entender a palavra moral; e as narrativas e argumentos de Andrada e Silva em defesa da igualdade, da educação e da integração dos trabalhadores negros e dos nativos brasileiros à sociedade nacional. Esse repositório de ideias converge em muitos pontos com as proposições de Condorcet, cujos textos representam uma coleção de justificativas para a instituição da república e a organização de um sistema de educação comprometido com o imaginário moral republicano; e as teses de Freire, para quem a educação constitui um espaço privilegiado para a autonomia, a crítica e a emancipação, condições fundamentais para a transformação de uma realidade opressora. Freire se aproxima, por assim dizer, do iluminismo de Rousseau e de Condorcet, diferenças à parte, ao propor uma linguagem de esperança para o campo da educação, para além das teorias da reprodução, compreendendo que os estudantes são capazes de interpretar de modo ativo a sua própria situação e de resistir aos grupos e às forças que tentam fazer prevalecer as suas orientações de dominação.
PERKEMBANGAN ‘ILM AL-ṢARF DALAM LEKSIKOLOGI ARAB
Authors: Ni'mah Umi Nurun
Published: March 2020

This paper seeks to discover the relationship between the development of ‘ilm al-ṣarf and of the Arabic lexicography. The analysis is made based on the entries of the Arabic dictionaries—which are the samples of this research. The dictionaries taken as the samples are those produced between the second century (first generation) and the twentieth century of Hijriya. The three concepts of ‘ilm al-ṣarf— tajrīd, i’lāl, and binā—are applied to analyse them. This article aims to trace and elucidate the development of the three concepts as they appear in the dictionaries. Based on the analysis, it is found that ilm al-ṣarf has evolved through time even though its basic principles had been applied from the first edition of the Arabic dictionaries.
Direct Fabrication of sub 100 nm Nanoneedles in Silver using Femtosecond Laser Direct Writing
Authors: Soma Venugopal Rao , Yendeti Balaji
Published: March 2020

Novel methods for production of nanomaterials are urgently needed for various applications, especially in defence. In this work, we propose a direct method to produce silver nanoneedles using the femtosecond laser direct writing (LDW) technique. Femtosecond pulses were focused by a microscope objective on to a metal sheet to produce the nanoneedles. Nanoneedles of required dimensions were fabricated with a simple replacement of microscope objective of different numerical aperture. Further, we have investigated the effect of confinement. Finally, the application of nanoneedles is demonstrated for trace level detection of picric acid using surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy and a field deployable portable Raman spectrometer.
DAMAGE PROCESS AND PATTERN OF AN RC STRUCTURE AFFECTED BY COMBINED FROST AND SALT ACTIONS
Authors: Mizuta Maki , Shimata Akinori , Ohta Tetsuji
Published: March 2020

In this study, a RC bridge wall rail affected by frost and salt actions was investigated in order to propose a maintenance planning of a RC structure subject to the combined attacks. A studied structure had been in service for more than forty years in Hokkaido in the northern part of Japan. Experimental results of material properties brought relationship between deterioration degrees of concrete and reinforcement. A compressive strength / Young’s modulus ratio was defined as the deterioration degree of concrete influenced by frost action and the deterioration degree of reinforcement was expressed by weight reduction rate. Further, the relationship was classified by degradation in appearance. On the assumption that the degradation in appearance depends on a balance between frost damage and salt damage, a developing process of the combined deterioration was observed. As a result, the deterioration degrees of concrete and reinforcement could be associated with the damage patterns. Especially, in case of the RC bridge wall rail with a loose concrete cover, the deterioration degree of concrete had a characteristic trend. Next, passage of time was considered and a time axis was added to the relationship between the deterioration degrees of concrete and reinforcement. Consequently, this relationship was proposed as assembly of damage developing process of a RC structure affected by combined frost and salt actions.
NONLINEAR FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS OF FRP STRENGTHENED RC BEAMS
Authors: Pathak Prabin , Zhang Y. X.
Published: March 2020

A simple, accurate and efficient finite element model is developed in ANSYS for numerical modelling of the nonlinear structural behavior of FRP strengthened RC beams under static loading in this paper. Geometric nonlinearity and material non-linear properties of concrete and steel rebar are accounted for this model. Concrete and steel reinforcement are modelled using Solid 65 element and Link 180 element, and FRP and adhesive are modelled using Shell 181element and Solid 45 element. Concrete is modelled using Nitereka and Neal’s model for compression, and isotropic and linear elastic model before cracking with strength gradually reducing to zero after cracking for tension. For steel reinforcement, the elastic perfectly plastic material model is used. FRPs are assumed to be linearly elastic until rupture and epoxy is assumed to be linearly elastic. The new FE model is validated by comparing the computed results with those obtained from experimental studies.
CHANGE OF VIBRATION CHARACTERISTICS OF WOODEN BUILDINGS UNDER CONSTRUCTION BASED ON MICRO-TREMOR MEASUREMENTS
Authors: Miyamoto Mitsuhiro
Published: March 2020

It is important to accurately determine the vibration characteristics of wooden buildings to evaluate their seismic performance. This study aims to determine the vibration characteristics of a wooden house at each construction stage and to clarify the factors in their change based on the micro-tremor measurements. The construction process of the wooden house is divided into four stages. In the first stage, the wooden house consists of only columns and beams. In the second stage, the lattice bearing walls are installed in the first stage structure. In the third stage, roofing is added. In the fourth stage, the exterior and interior finishes for the lattice bearing walls are conducted and the entire construction work is completed. Therefore, we conducted micro-tremor measurements a total of four times. Based on the results of the micro-tremor measurements, the stiffness ratio of each element of the wooden house was estimated. The exterior and interior finishes for the lattice load-bearing walls occupy approximately 50–70 % of the overall stiffness and their effect on the stiffness of the wooden house is very large.
EXPERIMENT SYSTEM BY VIRTUAL SHAKING TABLE USING ACCELEROMETER
Authors: Okamoto Terumasa , Tsujihara Osamu
Published: March 2020

This paper introduces an experiment system developed as a teaching material to support the lessons related to vibration and earthquake resistance in the fields of civil engineering and architecture. The hardware was composed of an accelerometer, a serial communication interface, an RS232-USB conversion adapter, and a computer. The virtual shaking table in a computer display was controlled by the hand-operated accelerometer. The response of the structure model with multi-degrees of freedom on the shaking table was calculated in real time. The findings were that hands-on experience in controlling the shaking table helps an instinctive understanding of vibration, especially acceleration and seismic intensity. A structure model with different dynamic characteristics can be built easily, so that the effect of properties, such as the natural period and damping constant on the structural motions, can be visualized, helping the understanding of the theory of vibration.