bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the spectrum of an "even" periodic Schrödinger operator with a rational magnetic flux
Authors: Filonov Nikolai D. , Sobolev Alexander V.
Published: June 2015

We study the Schrödinger operator on

L_2(\mathbb R^3)

with periodic variable metric, and periodic electric and magnetic fields. It is assumed that the operator is reflection symmetric and the (appropriately defined) flux of the magnetic field is rational. Under these assumptions it is shown that the spectrum of the operator is absolutely continuous. Previously known results on absolute continuity for periodic operators were obtained for the zero magnetic flux.
On a class of weighted Gauss-type isoperimetric inequalities and applications to symmetrization
Authors: Marini Michele , Ruffini Berardo
Published: June 2015

We solve a class of weighted isoperimetric problems of the form

\mathrm {min}\left\{\int_{\partial E}w e^V\,dx:\int_E e^V\,dx=\mathrm {constant}\right\}

where

w

and

V

are suitable functions on

\mathbb R^d

. As a consequence, we prove a comparison result for the solutions of degenerate elliptic equations.
Automorphism-invariant modules
Authors: Alahmadi Adel , Facchini Alberto , Khanh Tung Nguyen
Published: June 2015

A module

M

is called
automorphism-invariant
if it is invariant under automorphisms of its injective envelope. In this paper, we study the endomorphism rings of automorphism-invariant modules and their injective envelopes. We investigate some cases where automorphism-invariant modules are quasi-injective and a connection between automorphism-invariant modules and boolean rings.
Character difference digraphs over finite fields
Authors: Atanasov Risto , Budden Mark , Lambert Joshua
Published: June 2015

We generalize the notion of Paley digraphs by defining and studying character difference digraphs for characters defined on the multiplicative groups of finite fields.
$\alpha$-isoptics of a triangle and their connection to $\alpha$-isoptic of an oval
Authors: Michalska Małgorzata , Mozgawa Witold
Published: June 2015

For a fixed positive angle

\alpha

,

\alpha <\pi

we get an explicit formulas for an

\alpha

-isoptic curve of a triangle and study some of its properties. We use obtained results to show that

\alpha

-isoptic of an oval is an envelope of

\alpha

-isoptics of properly chosen triangles.
Classification of rings with unit graphs having domination number less than four
Authors: Kiani S. , Maimani H.R. , Pournaki M.R. , Yassemi S.
Published: June 2015

Let

R

be a finite commutative ring with nonzero identity. The unit graph of

R

is the graph obtained by setting all the elements of

R

to be the vertices and defining distinct vertices

x

and

y

to be adjacent if and only if

x+y

is a unit element of

R

. In this paper, a classification of finite commutative rings with nonzero identity in which their unit graphs have domination number less than four is given.
The Impact of Six Annual Rounds of Mass Drug Administration on Wuchereria bancrofti Infections in Humans and in Mosquitoes in Mali
Authors: Coulibaly Yaya I. , Dembele Benoit , Diallo Abdallah Amadou , Konaté Siaka , Dolo Houseini , Coulibaly Siaka Yamoussa , Doumbia Salif Seriba , Soumaoro Lamine , Coulibaly Michel Emmanuel , Bockarie Moses J. , Molyneux David , Nutman Thomas B. , Klion Amy D. , Toure Yeya T. , Traore Sekou F.
Published: June 2015

Wuchereria bancrofti prevalence and transmission were assessed in six endemic villages in Sikasso, Mali prior to and yearly during mass drug administration (MDA) with albendazole and ivermectin from 2002 to 2007. Microfilaremia was determined by calibrated thick smear of night blood in adult volunteers and circulating filarial antigen was measured using immunochromatographic card test in children < 5 years of age. Mosquitoes were collected by human landing catch from July to December. None of the 686 subjects tested were microfilaremic 12 months after the sixth MDA round. More importantly, circulating antigen was not detected in any of the 120 children tested, as compared with 53% (103/194) before the institution of MDA. The number of infective bites/human/year decreased from 4.8 in 2002 to 0.04 in 2007, and only one mosquito containing a single infective larva was observed 12 months after the final MDA round. Whether this dramatic reduction in transmission will be sustained following cessation of MDA remains to be seen.
The Influence of Episode Severity on Caregiver Recall, Care-seeking, and Treatment of Diarrhea Among Children 2–59 Months of Age in Bihar, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Lamberti Laura M. , Fischer Walker Christa L. , Taneja Sunita , Mazumder Sarmila , Black Robert E.
Published: June 2015

Increased diarrheal episode severity has been linked to better 2-week recall and improved care-seeking and treatment among caregivers of children under five. Using cross-sectional data from three Indian states, we sought to assess the relationship between episode severity and the recall, care-seeking, and treatment of childhood diarrhea. Recall error was higher for episodes with onset 8–14 days (31.2%) versus 1–7 days (4.8%) before the survey, and logistic regression analysis showed a trend toward increased severity of less recent compared with more recent episodes. This finding indicates that data collection with 2-week recall underestimates diarrhea prevalence while overestimating the proportion of severe episodes. There was a strong correlation between care-seeking and dehydration, fever, vomiting, and increased stool frequency and duration. Treatment with oral rehydration salts was associated with dehydration, vomiting, and higher stool frequency, and trends were established between therapeutic zinc supplementation and increased duration and stool frequency. However, state and care-seeking sector were stronger determinants of treatment than episode severity, illustrating the need to address disparities in treatment quality across regions and delivery channels. Our findings are of importance to researchers and diarrhea management program evaluators aiming to produce accurate estimates of diarrheal outcomes and program impact in low- and middle-income countries.
Dengue Fever Among Renal Transplant Recipients: A Series of 10 Cases in a Tropical Country
Authors: Costa Silvana Daher , da Silva Geraldo Bezerra , Jacinto Camilla Neves , Martiniano Lorena Vasconcelos Mesquita , Amaral Yago Sucupira , Paes Fernando Jose Villar Nogueira , De Mattos Brito Oliveira Sales Maria Luiza , de Matos Esmeraldo Ronaldo , De Francesco Daher Elizabeth
Published: June 2015

This is a case series of 10 consecutive renal allograft recipients, followed at a tertiary hospital in northeast Brazil, with a confirmed diagnosis of dengue. Five of the patients needed hospitalization. Half of them were males and age ranged from 19 to 60 years with a median of 38.2 years. They had been transplanted for a mean of 5 days to 166 months. Four patients developed dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). All patients had myalgia and headache. All of them, except one, had fever. Positive dengue serology (IgM) was found in all patients. No patient died. Dengue is an important infectious disease that can affect renal transplant recipients, mainly in endemic areas. Its presentation seems to be similar to that seen in immunocompetent patients.
Production of Toxocara cati TES-120 Recombinant Antigen and Comparison with its T. canis Homolog for Serodiagnosis of Toxocariasis
Authors: Zahabiun Farzaneh , Sadjjadi Seyed Mahmoud , Yunus Muhammad Hafiznur , Rahumatullah Anizah , Moghaddam Mohammad Hosein Falaki , Saidin Syazwan , Noordin Rahmah
Published: June 2015

Toxocariasis is a cosmopolitan zoonotic disease caused by the infective larvae of Toxocara canis and T. cati. Diagnosis in humans is usually based on clinical symptoms and serology. Immunoglobulin G (IgG)-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits using T. canis excretory–secretory (TES) larval antigens are commonly used for serodiagnosis. Differences in the antigens of the two Toxocara species may influence the diagnostic sensitivity of the test. In this study, T. cati recombinant TES-120 (rTES-120) was cloned, expressed, and compared with its T. canis homolog in an IgG4-western blot. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of T. cati rTES-120 were 70% (33/47) and 100% (39/39), respectively. T. canis rTES-120 showed 57.4% sensitivity and 94.4% specificity. When the results of assays using rTES-120 of both species were considered, the diagnostic sensitivity was 76%. This study shows that using antigens from both Toxocara species may improve the serodiagnosis of toxocariasis.
Transparência: reposicionando o debate
Authors: Zuccolotto Robson , Teixeira Marco Antonio Carvalho , Riccio Edson Luiz
Published: June 2015

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/2175-8069.2015v12n25p137A crise da democracia representativa nas últimas décadas desencadeou um conjunto dereformas cuja finalidade era fortalecer a democracia. Independente do modelo de reforma, um tema central em todas elas era a necessidade de aumentar a accountability democrática. A ampliação da accountability traz consigo a necessidade de compreender outro tema que, além de atrair muita atenção nos últimos anos, tem sido usado, pela mídia e pela academia científica sem os devidos cuidados conceituais: a transparência. Nesse sentido, este trabalho realiza uma revisão da literatura internacional sobre os conceitos e as classificações da transparência com o objetivo de proporcionar aos pesquisadores nacionais a ampliação de conhecimento sobre esse campo de investigação e, por consequência, maior precisão conceitual e classificatória aos estudos sobre o tema. Além do conceito de cada perspectiva, sugere-se uma recomendação mínima do que analisar em cada uma delas. A sistematização dos conceitos e classificações permite aos pesquisadores compreender e avançar nas pesquisas, possibilitando ampliar a reflexão sobre transparência no contexto brasileiro, ainda que em perspectiva comparada.
Vertical resolution dependence of gravity wave momentum flux simulated by an atmospheric general circulation model
Authors: Watanabe S. , Sato K. , Kawatani Y. , Takahashi M.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. The dependence of the gravity wave spectra of energy and momentum flux on the horizontal resolution and time step of atmospheric general circulation models (AGCMs) has been thoroughly investigated in the past. In contrast, much less attention has been given to the dependence of these gravity wave parameters on models' vertical resolutions. The present study demonstrates the dependence of gravity wave momentum flux (GWMF) in the stratosphere and mesosphere on the model's vertical resolution, which is evaluated using an AGCM with a horizontal resolution of about 0.56°. We performed a series of sensitivity test simulations changing only the model's vertical resolution above a height of 8 km, and found a global reduction of GWMF with increasing vertical resolution. Inertial gravity waves with short vertical wavelengths simulated at higher vertical resolutions might play an important role in determining GWMF in the summertime stratosphere. The sensitivity test simulation also demonstrated the importance of the model's vertical resolution on representing realistic behaviors of gravity waves near their critical level.
A semi-Lagrangian advection scheme for radioactive tracers in a regional spectral model
Authors: Chang E.-C. , Yoshimura K.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. In this study, the non-iteration dimensional-split semi-Lagrangian (NDSL) advection scheme is applied to the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) regional spectral model (RSM) to alleviate the Gibbs phenomenon. The Gibbs phenomenon is a problem wherein negative values of positive-definite quantities (e.g., moisture and tracers) are generated by the spectral space transformation in a spectral model system. To solve this problem, the spectral prognostic specific humidity and radioactive tracer advection scheme is replaced by the NDSL advection scheme, which considers advection of tracers in a grid system without spectral space transformations. A regional version of the NDSL is developed in this study and is applied to the RSM. Idealized experiments show that the regional version of the NDSL is successful. The model runs for an actual case study suggest that the NDSL can successfully advect radioactive tracers (iodine-131 and cesium-137) without noise from the Gibbs phenomenon. The NDSL can also remove negative specific humidity values produced in spectral calculations without losing detailed features.
Comparing bias correction methods in downscaling meteorological variables for a hydrologic impact study in an arid area in China
Authors: Fang G. H. , Yang J. , Chen Y. N. , Zammit C.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. Water resources are essential to the ecosystem and social economy in the desert and oasis of the arid Tarim River basin, northwestern China, and expected to be vulnerable to climate change. It has been demonstrated that regional climate models (RCMs) provide more reliable results for a regional impact study of climate change (e.g., on water resources) than general circulation models (GCMs). However, due to their considerable bias it is still necessary to apply bias correction before they are used for water resources research. In this paper, after a sensitivity analysis on input meteorological variables based on the Sobol' method, we compared five precipitation correction methods and three temperature correction methods in downscaling RCM simulations applied over the Kaidu River basin, one of the headwaters of the Tarim River basin. Precipitation correction methods applied include linear scaling (LS), local intensity scaling (LOCI), power transformation (PT), distribution mapping (DM) and quantile mapping (QM), while temperature correction methods are LS, variance scaling (VARI) and DM. The corrected precipitation and temperature were compared to the observed meteorological data, prior to being used as meteorological inputs of a distributed hydrologic model to study their impacts on streamflow. The results show (1) streamflows are sensitive to precipitation, temperature and solar radiation but not to relative humidity and wind speed; (2) raw RCM simulations are heavily biased from observed meteorological data, and its use for streamflow simulations results in large biases from observed streamflow, and all bias correction methods effectively improved these simulations; (3) for precipitation, PT and QM methods performed equally best in correcting the frequency-based indices (e.g., standard deviation, percentile values) while the LOCI method performed best in terms of the time-series-based indices (e.g., Nash–Sutcliffe coefficient, R2); (4) for temperature, all correction methods performed equally well in correcting raw temperature; and (5) for simulated streamflow, precipitation correction methods have more significant influence than temperature correction methods and the performances of streamflow simulations are consistent with those of corrected precipitation; i.e., the PT and QM methods performed equally best in correcting flow duration curve and peak flow while the LOCI method performed best in terms of the time-series-based indices. The case study is for an arid area in China based on a specific RCM and hydrologic model, but the methodology and some results can be applied to other areas and models.
Flood frequency analysis of historical flood data under stationary and non-stationary modelling
Authors: Machado M. J. , Botero B. A. , López J. , Francés F. , Díez-Herrero A. , Benito G.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. Historical records are an important source of information on extreme and rare floods and fundamental to establish a reliable flood return frequency. The use of long historical records for flood frequency analysis brings in the question of flood stationarity, since climatic and land-use conditions can affect the relevance of past flooding as a predictor of future flooding. In this paper, a detailed 400 yr flood record from the Tagus River in Aranjuez (central Spain) was analysed under stationary and non-stationary flood frequency approaches, to assess their contribution within hazard studies. Historical flood records in Aranjuez were obtained from documents (Proceedings of the City Council, diaries, chronicles, memoirs, etc.), epigraphic marks, and indirect historical sources and reports. The water levels associated with different floods (derived from descriptions or epigraphic marks) were computed into discharge values using a one-dimensional hydraulic model. Secular variations in flood magnitude and frequency, found to respond to climate and environmental drivers, showed a good correlation between high values of historical flood discharges and a negative mode of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) index. Over the systematic gauge record (1913–2008), an abrupt change on flood magnitude was produced in 1957 due to constructions of three major reservoirs in the Tagus headwaters (Bolarque, Entrepeñas and Buendia) controlling 80% of the watershed surface draining to Aranjuez. Two different models were used for the flood frequency analysis: (a) a stationary model estimating statistical distributions incorporating imprecise and categorical data based on maximum likelihood estimators, and (b) a time-varying model based on "generalized additive models for location, scale and shape" (GAMLSS) modelling, which incorporates external covariates related to climate variability (NAO index) and catchment hydrology factors (in this paper a reservoir index; RI). Flood frequency analysis using documentary data (plus gauged records) improved the estimates of the probabilities of rare floods (return intervals of 100 yr and higher). Under non-stationary modelling flood occurrence associated with an exceedance probability of 0.01 (i.e. return period of 100 yr) has changed over the last 500 yr due to decadal and multi-decadal variability of the NAO. Yet, frequency analysis under stationary models was successful in providing an average discharge around which value flood quantiles estimated by non-stationary models fluctuate through time.
Calibration of uncooled thermal infrared cameras
Authors: Budzier H. , Gerlach G.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. The calibration of uncooled thermal infrared (IR) cameras to absolute temperature measurement is a time-consuming, complicated process that significantly influences the cost of an IR camera. Temperature-measuring IR cameras display a temperature value for each pixel in the thermal image. Calibration is used to calculate a temperature-proportional output signal (IR or thermal image) from the measurement signal (raw image) taking into account all technical and physical properties of the IR camera. The paper will discuss the mathematical and physical principles of calibration, which are based on radiometric camera models. The individual stages of calibration will be presented. After start-up of the IR camera, the non-uniformity of the pixels is first corrected. This is done with a simple two-point correction. If the microbolometer array is not temperature-stabilized, then, in the next step the temperature dependence of the sensor parameters must be corrected. Ambient temperature changes are compensated for by the shutter correction. The final stage involves radiometric calibration, which establishes the relationship between pixel signal and target object temperature. Not all pixels of a microbolometer array are functional. There are also a number of defective, so-called "dead" pixels. The discovery of defective pixels is a multistep process that is carried out after each stage of the calibration process.
Impact of Public External Debt on Exchange Rate in Nigeria
Authors: Saheed Zakaree S. , Sani Ibrahim E. , Idakwoji Blessing O.
Published: June 2015

With continuous increase in public expenditures, and low capital formation in many developing countries, many governments have resorted into borrowing either or both within and outside the country. However, most borrowings come with interest attached, which results in debt servicing. Serving external debt may involve demand for foreign currency which tends to affect the exchange rate of the country. Hence, this study examines the impact of public external debt on exchange rate in Nigeria. Using the Ordinary Least Square, on the secondary data sourced from the CBN and DMO among other sources, findings reveals that all the dependent variables, that is, external debt, debt service payment and foreign reserve proved to be statistically significant in explaining exchange rate fluctuation in Nigeria within the period of observation, with debt service payment having the strongest effect (Coeff: 0.4443). Based on the finding, the study recommends that government should ensure that all public borrowing, where and when necessary, be directed towards productive economic activities which can generate returns to service and pay up the debt at maturity.
Questões de metodologia - Parte 2
Authors: Bufrem Leilah Santiago
Published: June 2015

A Profa. Dra. Leilah Santiago Bufrem, especialista em metodologia e produção científica, responde questões dos alunos do Curso de Pós-Graduação em Ciência, Gestão e Tecnologia da Informação (PPCGI/UFPR) e da Graduação em Gestão da Informação (CGI/UFPR). Nesta segunda parte da entrevista a Profa. Leilah esclarece, com ênfase nas peculiaridades da pesquisa em Ciências Sociais Aplicadas e Ciência e Gestão da Informação, os seguintes aspectos: as condições da coleta e análise de dados, as diferenças entre pesquisa ação e pesquisa participante, as estratégias para identificar fontes seguras e de qualidade para a elaboração do referencial teórico e, as características gerais da produção científica.
A Complexidade da cultura amazônica e seu reflexo para a organização e representação da informação
Authors: Rodrigues Anderson Luiz Cardoso
Published: June 2015

Introdução: Explora e analisa o domínio ‘cultura amazônica’ no contexto da organização e representação da informação. Apresenta conceitos de cultura com o objetivo de embasar as reflexões sobre o domínio estudado. Método: O referencial teórico de apoio é centrado na Teoria da Classificação Facetada de Ranganathan e na Teoria dos Níveis Integrativos do Classification Research Group, como base teórico-metodológica para a elaboração de um modelo de estrutura classificatória. A seleção dos conceitos foi realizada tomando por base os termos resultantes de pesquisa oral de três localidades geográficas da Amazônia, as cidades de Bragança, Castanhal e o arquipélago do Marajó. Resultados: A análise das origens etimológicas das palavras indicou a influência das culturas estrangeiras dos continentes europeu, africano, asiático e americano na linguagem amazônica. Conclusões: A análise dos resultados revelou a viabilidade de se desenvolver uma metodologia de trabalho para delinear uma estrutura de classificação e de um conjunto de conceitos para representar o domínio ‘cultura amazônica’ nas suas raízes basilares como estrutura para a construção de sistemas de organização do conhecimento.
Rede de tecnologia do Amazonas: fonte informacional para tomada de decisão
Authors: Siqueira Thiago Giordano De Souza , Barbalho Célia Regina Simonetti
Published: June 2015

Introdução: Debate os resultados de um projeto de Iniciação Científica sobre o fluxo da informação para a gestão empresarial a partir do serviço “Rede de Tecnologia” oferecido pelo Núcleo de Inovação e Empreendedorismo do Instituto Euvaldo Lodi. Método: A pesquisa caracterizou-se como exploratório-descritiva fazendo-se uso do método quali-quantitativo e empregando-se pesquisa bibliográfica e de campo. Resultados: Analisa a forma como os empreendedores da cidade de Manaus utilizam as informações fornecidas pelo serviço de informação em seu ambiente organizacional. Identifica as necessidades da demanda e de que forma as informações são aplicadas na gestão ou nos processos de inovação. Revela que a maior parte dos sujeitos da pesquisa é composta de microempresas com menos de um ano de atuação no mercado voltadas ao setor comercial. Conclusão: Evidencia-se a procura por informação mercadológica, seguido da procura por informação sobre criação/registro de empresa, bem como informação sobre fornecedores, em sua maioria com enfoque técnico ou mercadológico. Para parte dos sujeitos, a informação fornecida foi aplicada no estabelecimento do foco no negócio em que atua, existindo uma parcela de empreendedores para a qual o serviço não possibilitou aplicabilidade alguma devido às informações não apresentarem o resultado esperado.
Informação: metodologias, temas tradicionais e discussões emergentes
Authors: Appel Andre Luiz
Published: June 2015

A AtoZ: novas práticas em informação e conhecimento faz sua estreia no Sistema de Avaliação Qualis-CAPES trazendo novidades em sua interface. Neste novo número a entrevista contempla os principais elementos e desafios da competência informacional, seguida de artigos que abordam a questão da informação no contexto de tecnologias emergentes; ensino de ontologias; enfoques de coleta de dados e legislações voltadas à privacidade de dados pessoais.
Ferramentas 2.0 e bibliotecas universitárias brasileiras: levantamento de uso e implicações
Authors: Jorge Pablo Diego Silva de Souza , Ribeiro Marcos Maurilio
Published: June 2015

Introdução: Apresenta o conceito de biblioteca 2.0, e como os serviços e produtos orientados nesta perspectiva transformariam as bibliotecas tradicionais em ambientes mais interativos e dinâmicos. Aborda como as ferramentas 2.0 - blogs, microblogs, redes sociais, wikis, portais de compartilhamento de imagens e vídeos, dentre outras - podem proporcionar o aprimoramento dos processos de comunicação, transmissão da informação e aquisição do conhecimento, resultando em uma maior aproximação  da biblioteca e do bibliotecário com os seus usuários. Método: Análise quantitativo-qualitativa de websites de bibliotecas de universidades públicas brasileiras (incluído o Distrito Federal) visando o levantamento do uso de ferramentas 2.0. Resultados: Observou-se que dezenove, da amostra de vinte e sete bibliotecas submetidas à análise  utilizam alguma ferramenta 2.0. Verificou-se a preferência por três grupos de ferramentas 2.0 (Fontes RSS , Microblogs, e Redes Sociais). Verificou-se a não utilização de algumas ferramentas (Redes Sociais de Leitura, wikis, e Mensagens Instantâneas). Conclusão: As bibliotecas universitárias públicas brasileiras investigadas ainda têm uma modesta participação na esfera 2.0 o que dificulta o uso do potencial de comunicação, interação e colaboração destas ferramentas entre os usuários e usuários e bibliotecários
MaTUTO: adaptação da metodologia de aprendizagem baseada em problemas aplicada ao ensino de ontologias
Authors: Afonso Ricardo Alexandre , Pereira Clarisse Ferrão
Published: June 2015

Introdução: A implantação de novas metodologias de ensino traz consigo uma proposta de evolução dos modelos tradicionais de ensino, os quais têm se mostrado menos eficientes em decorrência da evolução da sociedade e do uso da tecnologia. Esta inadequação educacional incentivou a construção de uma proposta que condensa as etapas da metodologia de Aprendizagem Baseada em Problemas a qual foi testada na criação de uma ontologia de domínio definida pelo tutor do processo de ensino/aprendizagem.  O objetivo do artigo é apresentar uma metodologia compatível com uma realidade dinâmica existente em disciplinas e aulas que enfocam sistemas de informação, procedendo a uma avaliação com o grupo de alunos envolvido no experimento. Método: Apresentam-se as principais características e etapas da Aprendizagem Baseada em Problemas, as quais foram ajustadas na proposta MaTUTO (Mapear, TUtoriar e Traduzir em Ontologia) aplicada a grupos de alunos de graduação. Resultados: Foi possível desenvolver uma proposta metodológica que adapta e condensa os passos originais da Aprendizagem Baseada em Problemas como apoio às dinâmicas existentes em disciplinas ministradas nos cursos de Sistemas de Informação. A ontologia foi construída a contento e a avaliação do processo oferece resultados animadores. Conclusão: Para a temática indicada - a ontologia de domínio – a proposta metodológica alternativa permitiu aos alunos não apenas a assimilação dos conceitos envolvidos na Aprendizagem Baseada em Problemas, como resultou em um produto de organização da informação, ou seja, a ontologia.
Linked Open Data como forma de agregar valor às informações clínicas
Authors: Zaidan Fernando Hadad , Bax Marcello Peixoto
Published: June 2015

Introdução: Os dados abertos vinculados (Linked Open Data/LOD) têm sido assunto constante nos principais congressos e journals de web semântica por todo o mundo. Diversos estudos comprovam que o consumo destes dados é potencialmente importante para melhorar a qualidade dos sistemas de informações nas mais diversas áreas. A gestão da informação clínica é uma destas áreas, e a iniciativa LOD tem se esforçado para padronizar a sua publicação, tornando a interligação do conjunto de dados (datasets) mais eficiente. Contudo, agregar valor aos dados internos dos sistemas de informação, utilizando o LOD é desafiador. O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar o LOD, a fim de constatar a possibilidade se agregar valor aos dados de sistemas de informação clínicos. Método: Com base nos pesquisadores que propuseram a web semântica e os que acompanham a evolução do LOD efetivou-se uma revisão de literatura dos principais conceitos. Uma pesquisa documental foi realizada obtendo uma bibliografia baseada em livros e papers de autores renomados. Resultados: Foram apresentadas seis tecnologias que utilizam o padrão de dados abertos vinculados e que propõem a agregação de valor aos dados de sistemas de informação, em especial os clínicos. Os pontos em comum destas seis tecnologias situam-se na publicação, extração, interligação e consumo dos dados do LOD. Conclusão: Conclui-se que é possível agregar valor aos dados internos dos sistemas clínicos, mesmo quando se tem disponível mais de três bilhões de triplas do LOD para serem utilizadas/consumidas.
Dois anos de AtoZ em dois minutos de avaliação
Authors: Bettoni Eduardo Michelotti
Published: June 2015

O Editorial, além de comentar os artigos incluídos neste v2n2, apresenta e reflete sobre os resultados da pesquisa feita junto aos leitores, autores e apoiadores da AtoZ. A equipe editorial agradece a todos os participantes desta breve coleta de dados, e se compromete em aprofundar a análise das críticas e sugestões visando o encaminhamento de ajustes.
Puzzlemote: Videojuego controlado con el mando de la WII para niños de 6 a 10 años
Authors: Torres Vinueza Marcelo Daniel , Fuertes Walter , Villacís Silva César Xavier , Zambrano Rivera Margarita Elizabeth , Prócel Silva Carlos Teiron
Published: June 2015

Introdução: Os jogos educacionais ajudam a criar situações de descoberta e aprendizagem significativas para o desenvolvimento de habilidades na resolução de problemas e na tomada de decisão. Esta pesquisa apresenta a concepção, implementação e avaliação de um jogo educacional chamado Puzzlemote destinado a crianças de 6 a 10 anos. Método: Foi utilizada a  metodologia de Projeto Hipermídia Orientado a Objetos (OOHDM) e de Inteligência Artificial (AI), para criar um ambiente divertido e interativo voltado ao estímulo do pensamento lógico e na resolução de problemas complexos. O algoritmo utilizado implmentou técnicas de raciocínio voltados a recursos de movimentação frente-trás, tanto para a embaralhar o quebra-cabeça, como para colocá-lo em ordem. Esta proposta diferencia este jogo de outros semelhantes, onde é comum o uso do algoritmo A*. Para a sua execução foi empregado o controle remoto (Wiimote) do console Wii, considerando-se que o usuário pode ter uma experiência mais rica com o software ligado a este dispositivo. Resultados: Os resultados mostram que este programa melhora a compreensão e raciocínio lógico exigido para a resolução de problemas - especialmente o quebra-cabeça conhecido como n-puzzle - para as crianças que estavam na fase primária da educação. Conclusões: Se pode comprovar que a combinação de técnicas de raciocínio utilizando grafos facilita o embaralhamento e montagem do quebra-cabeças a partir de jogadas válidas, na qual o algoritmo memoriza os movimentos iniciais e os reconstrói a partir da inversão da lista enlaçada. Como trabalho futuro se pretende desenvolver o jogo para outras plataformas móveis e 3D a partir de demais consoles de videogame (Playstation, Nintendo e X-Box). Prevê-se, igualmente, ampliar o uso do aplicativo para idosos como apoio nos exercícios de memória, como prevenção ao desenvolvimento da Síndrome de Alzheimer.
Effects of Tea (Camellia sinensis) Phytochemicals on the Yoghurt Cultures (Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus) During Development and Storage of Tea Fortified Yoghurts
Authors: Ochanda Simon Oduor , Wanyoko John Kanyiri , Faraj Abdul Kiptoo , Onyango Christine Akoth , Ruto Henrik Kipngeno
Published: June 2015

Tea phytochemicals have been reported to exhibit potent antimicrobial activity. This current study reports the ability of Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus to grow, survive and multiply in the presence of tea phytochemicals during development and storage of tea fortified yoghurts. Two Kenyan tea varieties clone TRFK 6/8 (standard black quality tea) and clone TRFK 306/1 (newly developed purple leafed tea clone), were processed as aerated and non-aerated teas and used to develop tea fortified yoghurt. The teas were added at concentrations of 0, 1, 2 and 4 g in 250 mL volumes of milk (w/v) which was predetermined by sensory tests. The results showed that tea phytochemicals at the added ranges had no adverse effect on the growth of Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus; however, yoghurt setting time was prolonged at a mean time of 4.11, 5.22, 7.29 and 8.26 hrs respectively for tea concentrations of 0, 1, 2 and 4 g/250 mL milk. The mean microbial load for Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus in black, green and purple tea yoghurts were also inversely proportional to the concentration of the added teas. In the developmental stages of tea fortified yoghurts Lactobacillus bulgaricus range was 0.52-1.58 × 107 CFU/mL while Streptococcus thermophilus range was 2.53-3.51 × 109 CFU/mL, during storage the growth patterns were different between the cultures. The recorded mean values range for Lactobacillus bulgaricus was 2.79-4.35 × 107 CFU/mL while Streptococcus thermophilus mean range was 2.57-3.47 × 109 CFU/mL Phytochemicals traced in the product had concentration values below 5 × 102 µgmL-1. In conclusion, it was possible to develop probiotic tea fortified yoghurt containing tea phytochemicals with unlimited health benefits using different the different tea clones.
Esophagitis: Old Histologic Concepts and New Thoughts
Authors: Grin Andrea , Streutker Catherine J.
Published: June 2015

Context

Inflammatory lesions of the esophagus are a diverse group, often with nonspecific histologic findings. These benign changes can produce diagnostic difficulties for pathologists.

Objective

To discuss the typical histologic findings of a variety of the most common causes of esophagitis (reflux, eosinophilic esophagitis, infections, medications) along with less common issues such as sloughing esophagitis and skin disorders involving the squamous mucosa.

Data Sources

The literature has been reviewed to discuss histologic definitions of current and developing issues in the area of esophagitis.

Conclusions

Histologic features are not entirely sensitive and specific for inflammatory esophageal disorders. Awareness of these problems is essential; clinical and endoscopic information can be very useful in distinguishing among the various lesions.
IgG4-Related Disease of the Gastrointestinal Tract: A 21st Century Chameleon
Authors: Deshpande Vikram
Published: June 2015

Context

Immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)–related disease is a systemic fibroinflammatory disease capable of affecting virtually any organ. Although the pancreas and hepatobiliary system are commonly affected, involvement of the tubular gut is unusual. The pancreatic manifestations of this disease (autoimmune pancreatitis) often mimic pancreatic carcinoma, whereas the hepatobiliary manifestations are mistaken for cholangiocarcinoma or primary sclerosing cholangitis. The characteristic histologic features include a dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate, storiform-type fibrosis, and obliterative phlebitis. An increase in IgG4+ plasma cells and an IgG4 to IgG ratio of more than 40% are considered obligatory components of the diagnostic algorithm.

Objective

To review the challenges associated with the diagnosis of IgG4-related disease of the gastrointestinal tract.

Data Sources

A review of pertinent literature, along with the author's personal experience, based on institutional and consultation materials.

Conclusion

The complete spectrum of histologic changes is seldom captured in a biopsy specimen, and thus, the histopathology findings are best interpreted within the overall clinical context. Increased IgG4+ plasma cells are identified in a variety of benign and malignant diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
Cost–Benefit Analysis of Onsite Residential Graywater Recycling: A Case Study on the City of Los Angeles
Authors: Yu Zita L.T. , Deshazo J.R. , Stenstrom Michael K. , Cohen Yoram
Published: June 2015

A cost–benefit analysis of onsite graywater recycling in single‐family and multifamily homes was conducted to evaluate the merits of graywater recycling in the Los Angeles, Calif., area. Graywater recycling reduces potable water demand by 27 and 38% in single‐family and multifamily homes, respectively. The estimated available graywater is equivalent to 25% of the city's water demand. At a participation level of 10%, Los Angeles will be able to reduce water supply and treatment‐related energy by 43,000 MWh/y, potable water demand by 2%, and wastewater treatment load by 3%. Amending local building codes to require new construction to include plumbing to divert graywater for reuse can lower retrofit costs. Financial tools (e.g., a rebate program, a third‐party ownership model) could lower cost hurdles for graywater recycling. A city‐wide graywater reuse program could be developed to satisfy regulatory requirements by monitoring system operations and maintenance by certified contractors.
Assessment of the Tumorigenic Potential of Spontaneously Immortalized and hTERT-Immortalized Cultured Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Authors: Wilson Ryan , Urraca Nora , Skobowiat Cezary , Hope Kevin A. , Miravalle Leticia , Chamberlin Reed , Donaldson Martin , Seagroves Tiffany N. , Reiter Lawrence T.
Published: June 2015

Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) provide an exciting new avenue to study neurogenetic disorders. DPSCs are neural crest-derived cells with the ability to differentiate into numerous tissues including neurons. The therapeutic potential of stem cell-derived lines exposed to culturing ex vivo before reintroduction into patients could be limited if the cultured cells acquired tumorigenic potential. We tested whether DPSCs that spontaneously immortalized in culture acquired features of transformed cells. We analyzed immortalized DPSCs for anchorage-independent growth, genomic instability, and ability to differentiate into neurons. Finally, we tested both spontaneously immortalized and human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT)-immortalized DPSC lines for the ability to form tumors in immunocompromised animals. Although we observed increased colony-forming potential in soft agar for the spontaneously immortalized and hTERT-immortalized DPSC lines relative to low-passage DPSC, no tumors were detected from any of the DPSC lines tested. We noticed some genomic instability in hTERT-immortalized DPSCs but not in the spontaneously immortalized lines tested. We determined that immortalized DPSC lines generated in our laboratory, whether spontaneously or induced, have not acquired the potential to form tumors in mice. These data suggest cultured DPSC lines that can be differentiated into neurons may be safe for future in vivo therapy for neurobiological diseases.

Significance

This study demonstrated that immortalized dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) do not form tumors in animals and that immortalized DPSCs can be differentiated into neurons in culture. These results lend support to the use of primary and immortalized DPSCs for future therapeutic approaches to treatment of neurobiological diseases.
Biobanking of Human Retinas: The Next Big Leap for Eye Banks?
Authors: Lužnik Zala , Parekh Mohit , Bertolin Marina , Griffoni Carlo , Ponzin Diego , Ferrari Stefano
Published: June 2015

Retinal degenerative diseases are one of the main clinical causes of incurable and severe visional impairment. Thus, extensive research effort is put into the development of new causal therapeutic options. Promisingly, a number of studies showed regenerative capacity in specific retinal regions (the ciliary epithelium, retinal pigmented epithelium, iris, and Müller glia cells). However, most recent research studies are based on animal models or in vitro cultured cells, probably because of the limited availability of human posterior eye tissues (vitreous, retina, and choroid). To address this, we showed in our previous reports that eye banks with large numbers of globes collected yearly could set up biorepositories/biobanks where these precious tissues are isolated, quality controlled, and finally stored for scientists and clinicians wanting to access human tissues and test their own hypotheses. These precious human posterior eye tissues could be used for further research purposes, epidemiological studies, and target validation of newly developed drugs. In addition, this could be a promising and challenging option to retrieve potential retinal stem and progenitor cells from different parts of the retina and could be a breakthrough in the future delivery of ex vivo prepared customized (histocompatible) retinal tissue on scaffolds for transplantation purposes. In this Perspective, we will consider how the biorepositories could influence the future strategies for retinal stem cell therapies.

Significance

Retinal degenerative diseases are one of the main causes of severe vision impairment and regenerative medicine is attracting much attention as a potential therapy. Although highly desirable, the reactivation and proliferation of endogenous stem cells in vivo is not sufficient to generate enough cells to restore visual function after retinal injury. Thus, the replacement of exogenously derived normal donor cells is a promising solution. The challenge is to develop therapies with sufficient amounts of cells being harvested or expanded from donor tissues. Eye banks could overcome this issue by harvesting endogenous adult retinal stem cells from different donors.
Présentation
Authors: Turgeon Alexandre
Published: June 2015

La caricature est un médium de plus en plus employé, au Québec, comme ailleurs, pour mettre en images la société qui se fait. Ces dernières années, la caricature a été (re)découverte comme source pour étudier la société qui, par l’intermédiaire de ces éditorialistes de l’image à l’humour acéré et caustique, se bâtit des représentations qui l’inspirent, la font jaser, la provoquent ou l’amusent et, sur cette base, l’amènent à se changer, à se confirmer ou tout simplement à se moquer ou à pleurer d’elle-même. Dans ce texte, nous revenons sur ces éléments pour ensuite dresser un bilan des études sur la caricature au Québec, depuis les travaux pionniers de Raymond N. Morris, pour terminer avec la présentation des articles qui composent ce numéro.
O Observatório Regional como ferramenta de gestão nos Institutos Federais de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia: o caso do Instituto Federal do Paraná
Authors: Hellmann Gilmar Jose
Published: June 2015

Tendo como estudo de caso o Observatório Regional do IFPR, propõe-se definir o que seja o Observatório no contexto das organizações que o viabilizam e indicar a importância de indicadores e índices que subsidiam as informações aí utilizadas. A partir do interesse do governo federal em qualificar pessoas para o mercado de trabalho formou-se a Rede Federal de Educação Profissional, Científica e Tecnológica, constituída de instituições educacionais atuantes no ensino técnico básico e superior, conhecidas como Institutos Federais de Educação Tecnológicas ou IFET. As unidades dessas instituições de ensino visam atender às demandas de desenvolvimento regional e local em todo o território nacional. Fundamenta-se nos documentos governamentais e institucionais a corroboração do planejamento institucional com os princípios da sustentabilidade. Partindo-se de estudo de caso, propõe-se uma metodologia para iniciar e desenvolver as atividades do Observatório, aproximando os propósitos institucionais das necessidades locais, sinalizando a possibilidade de replicação do Observatório em outras instituições públicas e privadas no país.

Código JEL | H52; I28; R10.
Laboratório de tratamento e recuperação de resíduos químicos: alternativa para resíduos industriais do sul de Minas Gerais
Authors: Costa Luciano Tavares da , Salgado Eduardo Gomes , Do Carmo Dirlane De Fátima , Guerra Mayra , Evangelista Marina , Silveira Karla
Published: June 2015

Este artigo tem como objetivo a obtenção de dados, como custos, equipamentos e investimentos necessários para a construção, na UNIFAL-MG (campus II, em Alfenas), de um laboratório de tratamento e recuperação de resíduos químicos gerados na Universidade. Para auxiliar na decisão de implantação e operação do laboratório foi utilizado o EVTE (Estudo de Viabilidade Técnica e Econômica). O trabalho teve as seguintes etapas: identificação e quantificação dos resíduos, elaboração do EVTE, esboço da planta, captação de recursos e submissão do projeto. Verificou-se que a implantação e gestão do laboratório atenderiam a um volume inicial de aproximadamente 372 L/mês de resíduos químicos e 3,5 kg/mês de sais inorgânicos processados, além de outros resíduos de indústrias da região. A construção e manutenção deste laboratório são viáveis, dependendo do volume de resíduos tratados, recuperados ou reciclados, bem como da prestação de serviço para geradores de resíduos químicos da região. Deve-se ressaltar o benefício socioambiental e econômico devido à redução da quantidade (e a nocividade) do descarte de resíduos químicos, a oportunidade de formação acadêmica e a conscientização social promovida pela ação do laboratório, além de adequação aos princípios do Plano de Logística Sustentável na Administração Pública Federal.

Código JEL | Q01; QR3; L65.
Separation of Quadruplex Polymorphism in DNA Sequences by Reversed‐Phase Chromatography
Authors: Miller M. Clarke , Ohrenberg Carl J. , Kuttan Ashani , Trent John O.
Published: June 2015

This unit describes a method for the separation of a mixture of quadruplex conformations formed from the same parent sequence via reversed‐phase chromatography (RPC). Polymorphism is inherent to quadruplex formation and even relatively simple quadruplex‐forming sequences can fold into a cornucopia of possible conformations and topologies. Isolation of a specific conformation for study can be problematic. This is especially true for conformations of the human telomere sequence d(GGG(TTAGGG)3). High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), especially reversed‐phase chromatography, has been a mainstay of nucleic acid research and purification for many decades. We have successfully applied this method to the problem of separating individual quadruplex species in the ensemble from the same parent sequence. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Isolation and Culturing of Glioma Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Kim Sang‐Soo , Pirollo Kathleen F. , Chang Esther H.
Published: June 2015

In many human cancers including malignant glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), cancer stem cells (CSCs) are thought to be responsible for tumor initiation, metastasis and resistance to conventional anti‐cancer therapies. Therefore, a CSC‐targeted drug delivery strategy to eliminate CSCs is a desirable approach for developing a more effective therapeutic. Moreover, isolated CSCs will provide an invaluable tool for studying the underlying cellular mechanisms of tumor development and provide insight into therapeutic options for successful eradication of CSCs. This unit describes a method for the isolation and culture of CSCs from human GBM tumor tissue. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.