bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
En los bordes de la corrupción: análisis de la conformación, funcionamiento y expropiación de la Compañía Azucarera del Mante (1930-1939)
Authors: Méndez Medina Diana Lizbeth
Published: January 2017

A través del análisis de la conformación de la Compañía Azucarera del Mante, de su funcionamiento y del contexto en que se expidió el decreto de su expropiación, se puede observar que las trasgresiones a la ley no fueron exclusivas de los funcionarios públicos, sino que emergieron como una alternativa ante la debilidad de las instituciones públicas, y que la develación de dichas acciones fue utilizada por Lázaro Cárdenas como una estrategia para fortalecer su gobierno en un periodo de creciente oposición. El propósito de este artículo es demostrar que algunos actos, que desde la óptica contemporánea se consideran corruptos, adquieren otra dimensión si se conoce el momento histórico en que ocurrieron y las opciones disponibles en ese contexto.
Usos sociales del agua y medio ambiente en la cuenca internacional del río Colorado
Authors: Samaniego López Marco Antonio , Díaz Delgado Carlos
Published: January 2017

En este artículo se analiza cómo se relaciona la trasformación de los usos sociales del agua con los cambios en las formas de establecer el vínculo hombre-naturaleza. Se han modificado los conceptos y las ideas sobre qué debe hacerse con los recursos naturales, por lo que la forma de aprovecharlos, discutir y hacer propuestas sobre ellos cambia, al enfrentarse a los problemas de manera diferente. Esto se ilustra con la corriente internacional del río Colorado, que con frecuencia se ve como uno de los cuerpos de agua que mayores conflictos ha generado en el siglo xx y que, para algunos, puede ser uno de los puntos más importantes de estrés hídrico en los años siguientes.
Valoración económica de bienes públicos: estudio de caso del río Lerma, La Piedad, Michoacán
Authors: Gómez Sántiz Faustino , Guerrero García Rojas Hilda R.
Published: January 2017

El tramo del río Lerma, que atraviesa la zona metropolitana de La Piedad de Cabadas, Michoacán-Santa Ana Pacueco, Guanajuato, tiene una longitud de 12.8 km. Actualmente está convertido en un canal de desechos, que ha incidido en la aparición de fuertes problemas de salud pública. En este estudio se utilizó el método de valoración contingente y el modelo logit para determinar el valor económico total de este bien ambiental, y para analizar las variables de la decisión sobre la disposición a pagar una contribución para realizar mejoras, por parte de los beneficiarios de él. Dicho valor se estimó en más de 4 millones de pesos anuales, esto indica que de realizarse mejoras ambientales, la población se beneficiaría en la medida en que se lograra mitigar los efectos de la contaminación.
Patrones de organización social en la gestión de residuos sólidos urbanos en el continuo regional Distrito Federal-Estado de México
Authors: Núñez Espinoza Juan Felipe
Published: January 2017

En este artículo se identifican algunos de los patrones de organización presentes en el sistema social encargado del manejo de los residuos sólidos urbanos del Distrito Federal y del Estado de México. El supuesto de partida fue considerar a dichos residuos como un espacio de confluencia de relaciones sociales, susceptibles de ser mapeadas y estudiadas con el enfoque del análisis de redes sociales. Para ello se tomó en cuenta a los municipios, a las empresas y a la sociedad civil. La información que permitió observar esta organización provino de los responsables de medio ambiente y de servicios públicos municipales, de las estadísticas oficiales y de la bibliografía especializada en el tema. Existe un sistema complejo de gestión de residuos, consistente en procesos de retroalimentación, etapas diferentes de organización e información que lo dinamizan e innovan, pero que también lo atomizan, y esto provoca que la toma de decisiones sea limitada frente a la magnitud de la situación.
La crisis de la seguridad pública y los resultados electorales en el retorno del PRI a Nuevo León. Un análisis retrospectivo
Authors: Medellín Mendoza Laura Nelly
Published: January 2017

En este artículo se revisa la problemática reciente de la seguridad en la agenda pública de Nuevo León. Se destaca el efecto en los resultados electorales para el partido gobernante, tanto en elecciones intermedias como en la sucesión por la gubernatura. En ese sentido, el periodo de gobierno de 2003 a 2009 tuvo que enfrentar los altos índices delictivos con promulgación de leyes y políticas públicas, para marcar una reestructuración institucional en esta área. Se encontró evidencia de que el partido gobernante perdió espacios en los comicios intermedios en un contexto de gran inseguridad, pero esto no repercutió en la sucesión por la gubernatura, aunque los índices de homicidios por narcotráfico y la percepción de inseguridad ciudadana fueron altos hasta el término de la administración.
Programa Oportunidades y bienestar económico de los hogares beneficiarios de San Bartolomé Quialana, Oaxaca
Authors: Espinosa Trujillo Marco Antonio , Reyes de la Cruz Virginia Guadalupe , Pérez Vera Flor del Carmen , Torres Sombra Jesús
Published: January 2017

El objetivo del presente estudio es determinar la importancia de las trasferencias de gobierno, a través del Programa Oportunidades, en el ingreso de las familias beneficiarias, y el efecto que producen en su bienestar. Se tomó como referencia el caso de la comunidad San Bartolomé  Quialana, Oaxaca, donde se encontró que 28.6 por ciento de los ingresos de los beneficiarios provienen del programa.  Si las trasferencias se eliminaran, el porcentaje de individuos sin capacidad de acceso a la canasta alimentaria se incrementaría de 55.7 a 76.1. Un aumento de 10 por ciento en las trasferencias no tiene efecto significativo en el bienestar. En contraste, la reducción en este mismo valor hace que la pobreza se eleve a 87.5 por ciento, en relación con la línea de bienestar mínimo.
Libertades restringidas: el aborto y el ocaso de la libertad de decisión en Estados Unidos
Authors: Maier Elizabeth
Published: January 2017

En este artículo se examinan los hechos recientes sobre el creciente conflicto cultural que hay en Estados Unidos en torno al aborto, que se sitúa en el contexto histórico estructural contemporáneo de transición entre dos modelos capitalistas: la modernidad industrial y el posindustrialismo neoliberal globalizado. Por tanto, se exploran sus antecedentes legales y, de manera breve, se analizan los discursos y los actores en disputa. También se revisa la nueva legislación, que en muchos estados ha restringido el acceso al aborto despenalizado para las mujeres de menos ingresos y se evalúan, en general, las implicaciones que esto tiene en la vida de ellas.
El trabajo decente, una alternativa para reducir la desigualdad en la globalización: el caso de México
Authors: Gálvez Santillán Elizabeth , Gutiérrez Garza Esthela , Picazzo Palencia Esteban , Osorio Calderón Jesús
Published: January 2017

La globalización de la economía en la época actual ha propiciado, entre otras cosas, un aumento en la desigualdad económica y en la precarización laboral, tanto entre los países como dentro de ellos. La Organización Internacional del Trabajo elaboró la propuesta Trabajo decente, como alternativa para avanzar hacia una mayor igualdad, promover condiciones mínimas para que los trabajadores puedan cubrir sus necesidades básicas, laborar en el marco de la legislación vigente y fomentar el derecho a la participación sindical. En este artículo se tomó el caso de México para ejemplificar cómo la globalización económica ha contribuido a profundizar las desigualdades. También se analizan las condiciones de trabajo decente en las regiones noreste (Coahuila, Nuevo León y Tamaulipas) y sur (Chiapas, Guerrero y Oaxaca), donde hay grandes contrastes, muestra los aspectos en los que se pueden aplicar políticas para mejorar la calidad de los empleos, y avanzar hacia una mayor igualdad.
De lo dicotómico a lo relativo. Estudio de las teorías implícitas de la violencia de pareja
Authors: Moreno Candil David , Chapa Romero Ana Celia , Rivas Zavala Celene Esmeralda
Published: January 2017

El presente estudio se enfocó en explorar las teorías implícitas de la violencia de pareja en hombres y mujeres, residentes de un municipio ubicado al norte de Sinaloa. Para ello se elaboró el cuestionario de teorías implícitas de la violencia de pareja, a partir de las cuatro tipologías establecidas para la violencia en el ámbito privado: física, sexual, económica y psicológica. Se tomaron en cuenta dos variables: el sexo de los participantes y el del agresor. En los resultados se reconoce la violencia explícita y la sutil. En términos generales, los hombres tienden a atribuir menor grado de violencia que las mujeres. Se resalta la importancia de explorar las construcciones  sociales sobre la violencia, para entender la magnitud y crecimiento de este fenómeno.
Tlatelolco prehispánico
Authors: García Granados Rafael
Published: January 2017

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FAKTOR YANG BERHUBUNGAN DENGAN PAPARAN PESTISIDA PADA PEKERJA CHEMIS (PENYEMPROTAN)
Authors: M.Kes ENTIANOPA
Published: January 2017

PT. Ricki Kurniawan Kertapersada adalah perusahaan perkebunan kelapa sawit yang berada di Desa Mekar Sari Kecamatan Kumpeh Kabupaten Muaro Jambi. Berdasarkan data yang diperoleh dari Puskesmas Puding tahun 2014 Hasil pemeriksaan cholinesterase terhadap 101 orang pekerja chemis PT. RKK terdapat 40 pekerja yang terpapar pestisida.

Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif. Populasi penelitian berjumlah 101 orang.Cara pengambilan sampel dalam penelitian menggunakan tehnik Accidental Sampling dengan jumlah sampel sebanyak 49 orang.

Hasil penelitian diketahui 32 (64,0%) terpapar pestisida, 33 (66,0%) responden memiliki pengetahuan rendah, 20 (40,0%) responden cara penyemprotan kurang baik, dan 24 (68,0%) penggunaan APD tidak lengkap. Terdapat hubungan yang bermakana antara pengetahuan (p-value = 0,036), penggunaan APD (p-value = 0.003) dengan paparan pestisida pada pekerja chemis (Penyemprotan) di PT. RKK Desa Mekar Sari Kecamatan Kumpeh Kabupaten Muaro Jambi tahun 2016.

Disarankan bagi Dinas kesehatan agar dapat meningkatkan pemberian informasi tentang penggunaan pestisida. Bagi PT. RKK agar dapat melakukan pembinaan kepada pekerja tentang penggunaan pestisida sesuai petunjuk.

 

Kata Kunci    :Paparan Pestisida,    Pengetahuan,     Cara    Penyemprotan,

                        Penggunaan APD
Avaliação da Inclusão de Metoprolol Oral no Formulário Farmacoterapêutico de um Hospital Universitário
Authors: Noblat de Carvalho Gláucia , De Araújo Costa Beisl Noblat Lúcia
Published: January 2017

Objetivo: Avaliar a necessidade de inclusão do metoprolol oral no Formulário Terapêutico. Metodologia: Foi realizada uma revisão da literatura no período janeiro a março de 2012 comparando o metoprolol aos betabloqueadores selecionados de acordo com a indicação registrada na Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária. Foram utilizadas as bases de dados PubMed, Web of Science, LILACS, SciELO e Bireme. Os critérios de inclusão dos estudos foram: ensaios clínicos randomizados, controlados, duplo cego, que avaliaram a eficácia dos betabloqueadores. Os critérios de exclusão foram: ensaios clínicos com controles retrospectivos. Foram incluídos na avaliação de segurança estudos selecionados na revisão de eficácia que dispunham de informações sobre efeitos adversos. A conveniência foi avaliada a partir de informações farmacocinéticas. Para a análise de custo, houve uma avaliação dos preços por região e licitação pública. Resultados e discussão: Na análise de eficácia, os estudos incluídos na insuficiência cardíaca não demonstraram diferença de benefício entre o carvedilol e metoprolol, com exceção de um estudo. Para o tratamento do infarto agudo do miocárdio, angina, hipertensão arterial sistêmica e arritmias não houve superioridade entre os representantes. Na análise de segurança, observou-se que os efeitos adversos foram leves e semelhantes para toda a classe. Há uma comodidade associada com o atenolol e metoprolol por permitirem administração única diária. Por fim, a análise de custo com o tratamento foi desfavorável para o metoprolol. Conclusão: Diante das evidências e dos critérios de seleção, é possível concluir que os dados são desfavoráveis para a inclusão do metoprolol no formulário terapêutico.
A proteção jurídica do consumidor de medicamentos frente ao desabastecimento do mercado
Authors: P. Romero Luiz Carlos
Published: January 2017

Analisa-se o desabastecimento do mercado de medicamentos quanto a suas características, consequências e causas, e identificam-se as características e estima-se a efetividade das novas normas reguladoras propostas para o enfrentamento do problema.
Thyroid disorders in women with dysfunctional uterine bleeding
Authors: Subedi S , Banerjee B , Manisha C
Published: January 2017

Background: Thyroid hormones play a key role in the menstrual and reproductive function of women .It is recognized universally that menstrual disturbances may accompany clinical alteration in thyroid function and every clinician has encountered altered menstrual pattern among women suffering from thyroid disorders. The aim of this study was to find the incidence of thyroid disorders in Dysfunctional uterine bleeding and its correlation with menstrual patterns.Materials and Methods: A hospital based cross-sectional study including 75 cases with dysfunctional uterine bleeding attending the OPD of Nobel Medical College, where incidence of thyroid disorder was evaluated along with its correlation with menstrual patterns and histopathology.Results: The incidence of Gynecological OPD attendance due to abnormal uterine bleeding was 3%.and the incidence of thyroid dysfunction was 10.6% with hypothyroidism being the commonest. (9.3%). The commonest menstrual pattern found was menorrhagia/polymenorrhoea in 8 percent.Conclusion: Prevalence of hypothyroidism was more common in DUB. Thus every woman with menstrual irregularities should undergo thyroid assessment and this will ultimately avoid unnecessary intervention like misuse of hormonal treatment and hysterectomy.
p53 immunohistochemical staining patterns in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Dundy G , Kumar H , Singh A , Chandarakant A
Published: January 2017

Background: Mutation of p53 gene is one of the most common events in oral carcinogenesis. Accumulation of p53 protein has also been detected in premalignant lesions.Materials and Methods:  This study included 40 biopsy samples, which were received in department of pathology, Sarojini Naidu Medical College, Agra, to ascertain p53 expression by immunohistochemically, in patients with oral squamous cell carcinomas and to correlate its expression with histological grade, different sites in oral cavity and tobacco intake/smoking habits.Results: Out of 40 biopsies of oral mucosa, 03 showed normal oral mucosa and 37 were diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), most patients were in 5th and 6th decade and majority (86.5%) of oral SCC were males with buccal mucosa being the most common site. There was a statistically significant difference in p53 expression between oral SCC and normal oral mucosa (p value <0.05). Of total 37 cases, 12 cases were well differentiated type, 16 moderately differentiated and 09 of poorly differentiated type of SCC. In each category, about two thirds were positive for p53 staining. Out of total 37 cases of oral SCC, 64.9% were positive and 35.1% were negative for p53 expression, 34 cases had positive history of tobacco intake/smoking habits, of which 23 cases were positive while 11 cases were negative for p53 staining.Conclusion: Abnormal p53 protein was detected in 64.9% of oral squamous cell carcinoma, but not in normal oral mucosa. p53 expression was associated with malignant transformation of oral mucosa.
Morphological changes in the Heart in unrelated deaths
Authors: Ilias LM , Anupama P , Gautam K , Shukla S , Pai MR , Babitha AM , Vijayan P , Sideeque NA , Saleem S , Umasankar P
Published: January 2017

Background: Cardiovascular diseases are the major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In the Indian subcontinent, they account for more than 25% of deaths. Numerous studies have been conducted on the cardiovascular system in cases of sudden death; but there has been a major neglect to study the heart in cases of people who died of unrelated causes.In the present study, we have attempted to study the CVS in detail in those individuals who died of unrelated causes and have tried to assess the prevelance of atherosclerosis, conduction system lesions, inflammatory and valvular pathologies in them.Materials and Methods: The present study was a prospective one conducted from June 2007 to June 2009 in the department of Pathology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore. The hearts of persons who died of unrelated causes were studied.Results: Various lesions encountered in the heart were coronary artery disease (70.58%), medial hyperplasia of SAnode (38.23%) and AV node (55.88%), chronic inflammation of the conduction system (55.88%) and calcification (11.76%). Malarial myocarditis was seen in 5.88% and pulmonary stenosis was seen in 2.94% of the cases. No cardiac pathology was detected in 5.88% cases.Conclusion: Our study highlights the prevelace of atherosclerotic changes and conduction system abnormalities in the general population. Hence, we conclude that examination of the CVS is extremely important in cases of sudden death; but it should also be made mandatory in unrelated deaths too, as it can diagnose a lot of hidden pathology.
Glusoce-6-phosphate dehydrogenase- History and diagnosis
Authors: Gautam K
Published: January 2017

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency is the most common enzymatic defect of red blood cells, which increases the vulnerability of erythrocytes to oxidative stress leading to hemolytic anemia. Since its identification more than 60 years ago, much has been done with respect to its clinical diagnosis, laboratory diagnosis and treatment. Association of G6PD is not just limited to anti malarial drugs, but a vast number of other diseases. In this article, we aimed to review the history of Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, the diagnostic methods available along with its association with other noncommunicable diseases.
Histopathological spectrum of Psoriasiform dermatitis
Authors: Jayalakshmy PL , Babitha AM , Sankar S , Nandakumar G
Published: January 2017

Background: Psoriasiform dermatitis is a frequently encountered terminology in a wide variety of inflammatory dermatoses. It often poses challenges to both dermatologists and pathologists alike. Clinical features when considered alone may not be reliable, as they vary with both disease duration and treatment. On the contrary, histopathological material constitutes definite hard evidence, which can be preserved and will continue to be available for future review. The objective of the study is to study the histopathological findings in Psoriasiform dermatitis.Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study in a tertiary care centre in Kerala, South India. All cases diagnosed as Psoriasis or mentioned as one of the differential diagnosis were included. The material included 66 skin biopsies. Patients with a previous diagnosis of the same were excluded from the study.Results: The lesions comprised 9% of the total number of skin biopsies. The age distribution pattern revealed that the highest percentage was in the 41-60 year age group (50%) with a male preponderance of 65%. Psoriasis was the most common lesion (60.60%) and Lichen simplex chronicus was the second most common lesion (10.60 %), encountered in the study.Conclusion: Some of the histopathological features are specific and characteristic for each entity like Psoriasis, Pityriasis rubra pilaris, Pityriasis rosea and Inflammatory linear verrucous epidermal nevus whereas some overlap in lesions like Prurigo nodularis, Lichen simplex chronicus and Allergic contact dermatitis. Hence, combination of proper clinical observation and histopathological study will give a conclusive diagnosis.
Fine needle aspiration cytology of head and neck lesions and its correlation with histopathology
Authors: Pathak R , Prasad KBR , Rauniyar SK , Pudasaini S , Pande K , Koirala S , Kafle S , Jha A , Chalise S , Basnyat AS
Published: January 2017

Background: Fine needle aspiration cytology is a minimally invasive technique used in the initial diagnosis of different types of lesions located in head and neck region commonly originating from cervical lymph node, thyroid gland, salivary glands and soft tissues. The objective of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity and speci city of FNAC in various head and neck lesions in correlation with their histopathological examination. Materials and methods: A hospital based prospective study was conducted among 209 patients with palpable head and neck region swellings in the Department of Pathology, Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital and the Department of Pathology, Nepal Medical College from August 2014 to July 2015. FNAC were done from palpable masses of head and neck regions. Data entry and analysis were done using SPSS 17. Result: There were 209 FNAC cases enrolled, out of which lymph node lesions (n=128) were the most common lesions followed by thyroid (n=40), other soft tissues (n=27) and salivary gland (n=14). Reactive lymph nodes, colloid goiter, epidermoid cyst and sialadenosis were the predominant diagnosis of lymph nodes, thyroid gland, soft tissues and salivary gland respectively. Highest accuracy, sensitivity and speci city were observed in thyroid gland, salivary gland and soft tissues. However, four false negative results for malignancy were reported in lymph node lesions. Conclusion: Head and neck region swellings are the commonly encountered conditions. FNAC being highly accurate, sensitive and speci c makes it useful and reliable procedure for screening and diagnosis of palpable masses in head and neck region.
Comparison of semen analysis by manual and automated method
Authors: Chaurasia AK , Sinha AK , Upahdyay P
Published: January 2017

Background: Semen analysis is used to evaluate male fertility. The aim of this study was to compare the results of semen analysis using manual method and automated sperm analyzer.Materials and Methods: This was a comparative study of 50 cases of semen analysis done in the Department of Pathology at the B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences from March 2009 to March 2010. The automated sperm analyzer did not show the WHO parameters of patients who had functional sperm count (FSC) less than five hundred thousand (500,000). Semen analysis of each of the case included in the study was done by manual and automated method (using SQAII-P analyzer).Results: Out of 31 patients, the mean age of the patients was 28.56 years with youngest patient of 20 years and eldest of 45 year. Sensitivity and specificity was 100% in analysis of sperm concentration by both the methods. Sperm motility analysis showed 100% sensitivity and 81.81% specificity. Sperm morphology analysis showed 100% sensitivity and 34.48% specificity.Conclusion: It was observed that the automated method is much quicker and precise than the conventional, manual method for semen analysis.
Clinico-bacterial correlation of bacterial index in Hansen’s disease
Authors: Jha SM , Dangol AKS , Shakya S , Jha B
Published: January 2017

Background: Leprosy has a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations. Clinical information along with Bacterial evidence is necessary to achieve accurate diagnosis. The present study was carried out to nd out clinical and bacterial correlation in various presentations according to Ridley Jopling classi cation of Hansen’s Disease. Materials and Methods: It was a hospital based cross-sectional comparative study of 72 leprosy patients over a period of 1 year and it’s clinico-Bacterial correlation was done with the help of Slit Skin Smear and clinical classi cation. Results: This study included 72 leprosy patients at various stages according to Ridley Jopling classi cation. Maximum cases belonged to Borderline Tuberculoid leprosy 28(38.88%) followed by Tuberculoid leprosy 15(20.83%). Slit Skin Smear showed 12(42.85%) of Borderline Tuberculoid and 3(20%) of Tuberculoid cases had disparity and didn’t match corresponding clinical subtype. Conclusion: Clinical features along with Bacterial index is useful in making accurate diagnosis so that appropriate treatment could be started and hence deformity and disability could be prevented.
Memoir of a Republican Royalist: Gouverneur Morris, Chronicler and Actor of the French Revolution
Authors: Ricard Serge
Published: January 2017

The Paris sojourn of the author of A Diary of the French Revolution is possibly the most fascinating period of his eventful life. As George Washington's informant and emissary (official and unofficial) in both Paris and London, Gouverneur Morris discreetly contributed to the United States' policy toward France and England. Upon his arrival in Paris in February 1789, Morris became the privileged witness of the outbreak of the French Revolution, of which he would become an invaluable chronicler and a discreet actor for five years. A self-appointed advisor on revolutionary matters, he would interfere in French politics as a republican royalist of sorts and become the darling of the constitutional noblesse and the Jacobins' bête noire. From 1792 to 1794, he served as minister plenipotentiary of the United States. As the only foreign diplomat to remain in Paris during the Reign of Terror, Morris judiciously used his astonishing network of personal relationships with the various factions to defend American interests and to help his compatriots involuntarily caught in the maelstrom of sanguinary ideological excesses. This article re-examines Gouverneur Morris's participation in the second earth-shaking upheaval of the late eighteenth century and ponders the New York revolutionist's reasons for involvement, as well as the nature and significance of that engagement.
Residual effects of static stretching and self-myofascial-release exercises on flexibility and lower body explosive strength in well-trained combat athletes
Authors: Sağiroğlu İsa , Kurt Cem , Pekünlü Ekim , Özsu İlbilge
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND: The self-myofascial technique is a new exercise modality that is thought to improve muscular performance and restore soft tissue. However, there are limited empirical data demonstrating the efficacy of this technique on athletic performance.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of self-myofascial-releasing exercises on the residual characteristics of the sit and reach (S&R) and countermovement jump (CMJ) performance in well-trained combat athletes.

METHODS: Sixteen well-trained male combat athletes (age: 23.9 ± 3.6 years, mass: 78.78 ± 10.41 kg, combat experience: 12.87 ± 5.23 years) performed three exercise sessions called ``aerobic running (AR)'', ``aerobic running combined with static stretching (AR + SS)'', and ``aerobic running combined with self-myofascial release (AR + SMR)'' at 48 hour intervals in a randomized crossover design. After each session, the subjects performed the S&R and CMJ tests successively with 30-s of rest between the tests at the 15th second and at the 2nd, 4th, 6th, 8th, 10th, 15th, and 30th minute during the recovery period.

RESULTS: ANOVA and the post-hoc LSD (Least Significant Difference) test revealed that the AR + SMR treatment increased the flexibility greater than AR + SS (p= 0.029) at the 45th second. Additionally, the AR + SMR treatment resulted in less of a decrease in CMJ height compared to AR + SS at the 10th minute (p= 0.025). A larger decrease in the CMJ height was found after AR + SS compared to the AR and AR + SMR treatments at the 10th and 15th minute, respectively (p= 0.025 and p= 0.038). These results revealed that SMR had no advantage over AR and SS in terms of enhancing flexibility. A statistically insignificant inhibitory effect of SMR was detected on the CMJ performance. SS appeared to have an inhibitory effect on the CMJ performance for approximately 15 minutes.

CONCLUSION: SMR may have a detrimental effect on CMJ performance. Trainers or athletes should consider using the SMR technique before training or competition to prevent possible power decrement.
Effect of different levels of water on qualitative characteristics of Lassi prepared from reconstituted milk
Authors: Zohra FT , Islam MN , Siddiki MSR , Habib MR , Afrin S
Published: January 2017

Present research work was designed to develop lassi from reconstituted milk using different levels of water. For this purpose, dahi was prepared from reconstituted milk using traditional starter culture. Four different types of lassi were prepared by mixing dahi with 15, 20, 25 and 30% water and sugar level in all samples were 20%. The quality of lassi from reconstituted milk was evaluated by a panel of expert judges by different physical tests using a score card. There was non-significant difference (p>0.05) among the overall physical score of lassi samples. Result revealed that the highest overall score was recorded in 20% added water lassi sample whereas the lowest score was found in 30% added water lassi sample. In chemical analysis, significant differences (p<0.01) existed among the total solids, carbohydrate, fat, protein, moisture content and pH value but non-significant differences (p>0.05) were seen for ash content and acidity percentage. The total bacteria, coliform, yeast and mold in all samples did not exceed the legal standard. From the findings of this study, it might be concluded that lassi could be prepared successfully from reconstituted and mixing reconstituted milk dahi with 20% water along with 20% sugar will produce better quality lassi.Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2016. 45 (3): 46-51
Polydeoxyribonucleotide, an Adenosine-A2A Receptor Agonist, Preserves Blood Testis Barrier from Cadmium-Induced Injury
Authors: Squadrito Francesco , Micali Antonio , Rinaldi Mariagrazia , Irrera Natasha , Marini Herbert , Puzzolo Domenico , Pisani Antonina , Lorenzini Cesare , Valenti Andrea , Laurà Rosaria , Germanà Antonino , Bitto Alessandra , Pizzino Gabriele , Pallio Giovanni , Altavilla Domenica , Minutoli Letteria
Published: January 2017

Cadmium (Cd) impairs blood-testis barrier (BTB). Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), an adenosine A2A agonist, has positive effects on male reproductive system. We investigated the effects of PDRN on the morphological and functional changes induced by Cd in mice testes. Adult Swiss mice were divided into four groups: controls administered with 0.9% NaCl (1 ml/kg, i.p., daily) or with PDRN (8 mg/kg, i.p. daily), animals challenged with Cd chloride (CdCl2; 2 mg/kg, i.p, daily) and animals challenged with CdCl2 (2 mg/kg, i.p., daily) and treated with PDRN (8 mg/kg, i.p., daily). Experiments lasted 14 days. Testes were processed for biochemical, structural, and ultrastructural evaluation and hormones were assayed in serum. CdCl2 increased pERK 1/2 expression and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) levels; it decreased testosterone (TE) and inhibin-B levels and induced structural damages in extratubular compartment and in seminiferous epithelium, with ultrastructural features of BTB disruption. Many TUNEL-positive germ cells were present. CdCl2 increased tubular TGF-β3 immunoreactivity and reduced claudin-11, occludin, and N-cadherin immunoreactivity. PDRN administration reduced pERK 1/2 expression, FSH, and LH levels; it increased TE and inhibin-B levels, ameliorated germinal epithelium changes and protected BTB ultrastructure. Few TUNEL-positive germ cells were present and the extratubular compartment was preserved. Furthermore, PDRN decreased TGF-β3 immunoreactivity and enhanced claudin-11, occludin, and N-cadherin immunoreactivity. We demonstrate a protective effect of PDRN on Cd-induced damages of BTB and suggest that PDRN may play an important role against Cd, particularly against its harmful effects on gametogenesis.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Algorithms in 2016
Authors:   Algorithms Editorial Office
Published: January 2017

The editors of Algorithms would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2016.[...]
A Geostatistics-Based Method to Determine the Pixel Distance in a Structure Function Model for Aerosol Optical Depth Inversion
Authors: Zhou Guanhua , Zhang Yue , Ma Zhongqi , Xu Wujian , Zhang Kai , Liu Junhui , Tan Yumin
Published: January 2017

Inversion of aerosol optical depth (AOD) over bright land surface by optical remote sensing is particularly challenging because surface reflectance dominates the satellite signal. A structure function method is suitable and can effectively solve aerosol optical depth inversion in high reflectance areas. How to select d (the pixel distance between two pixels) value is one of the key problems with the structure function method. We present a method based on geostatistics, where variogram theory is referenced, to determine the pixel distance in structure function model for aerosol optical depth inversion. This method was validated by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) 1 km resolution level 1B data from Beijing, China. The results indicate that the relationship between variogram and d in four different directions can be fitted by exponential function, of which correlation coefficients are all above 0.9. Compared with the MODIS aerosol product (MOD 04 product), the inversion AOD has higher accuracy, with an absolute error of −0.00187 instead of −0.00854 and a relative error of 0.99% instead of 4.35%, based on AERosol RObotic NETwork (AERONET) observations. For validation, we applied this new method separately to both Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region and MODIS 500 m resolution images for region and resolution validation. The results show that inversion AOD has higher accuracy and more efficient pixels.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Atmosphere in 2016
Authors:   Editorial Office
Published: January 2017

The editors of Atmosphere would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2016.[...]
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Atoms in 2016
Authors:   Atoms Editorial Office
Published: January 2017

The editors of Atoms would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2016.[...]
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Biosensors in 2016
Authors:   Editorial Office
Published: January 2017

The editors of Biosensors would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2016.[...]
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Behavioral Sciences in 2016
Authors:   Behavioral Sciences Editorial Office
Published: January 2017

The editors of Behavioral Sciences would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2016.[...]
Towards a Multiscale Model of Acute HIV Infection
Authors: Bouchnita Anass , Bocharov Gennady , Meyerhans Andreas , Volpert Vitaly
Published: January 2017

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection of humans represents a complex biological system and a great challenge to public health. Novel approaches for the analysis and prediction of the infection dynamics based on a multi-scale integration of virus ontogeny and immune reactions are needed to deal with the systems’ complexity. The aim of our study is: (1) to formulate a multi-scale mathematical model of HIV infection; (2) to implement the model computationally following a hybrid approach; and (3) to calibrate the model by estimating the parameter values enabling one to reproduce the “standard” observed dynamics of HIV infection in blood during the acute phase of primary infection. The modeling approach integrates the processes of infection spread and immune responses in Lymph Nodes (LN) to that observed in blood. The spatio-temporal population dynamics of T lymphocytes in LN in response to HIV infection is governed by equations linking an intracellular regulation of the lymphocyte fate by intercellular cytokine fields. We describe the balance of proliferation, differentiation and death at a single cell level as a consequence of gene activation via multiple signaling pathways activated by IL-2, IFNa and FasL. Distinct activation thresholds are used in the model to relate different modes of cellular responses to the hierarchy of the relative levels of the cytokines. We specify a reference set of model parameter values for the fundamental processes in lymph nodes that ensures a reasonable agreement with viral load and CD4+ T cell dynamics in blood.
Spatial Genetic Structure within and among Seed Stands of Pinus engelmannii Carr. and Pinus leiophylla Schiede ex Schltdl. & Cham, in Durango, Mexico
Authors: Ortiz-Olivas María , Hernández-Díaz José , Fladung Matthias , Cañadas-López Álvaro , Prieto-Ruíz José , Wehenkel Christian
Published: January 2017

Studies of spatial genetic structure (SGS) are important because they offer detailed insights into historical demographic and evolutionary processes and provide important information regarding species conservation and management. Pinus engelmannii and P. leiophylla var. leiophylla are two important timber tree species in Mexico, covering about 2.5 and 1.9 million hectares, respectively. However, studies in relation to population genetics are unfortunately scant. The aim of this research was to use amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLP) analysis to identify potential differences in spatial genetic structure within and among seven Pinus engelmannii and nine P. leiophylla var. leiophylla seed stands in Durango, Mexico. Within the 16 seed stands of the two tested pine species, no significant SGS was detected, although SGS was detected among the seed stands. We concluded that the collection of seed in only some seed stands should not significantly alter the degree of genetic differentiation within the (collected) seed. Distances between seed orchards and pollen propagators of more than 24 km for P. engelmannii and 7 km for P. leiophylla may be sufficient to limit contamination. Finally, local seeds should be used for (re)forestation.
Recent Developments in Micro-Structured Fiber Optic Sensors
Authors: Xu Yanping , Lu Ping , Chen Liang , Bao Xiaoyi
Published: January 2017

Recent developments in fiber-optic sensing have involved booming research in the design and manufacturing of novel micro-structured optical fiber devices. From the conventional tapered fiber architectures to the novel micro-machined devices by advanced laser systems, thousands of micro-structured fiber-optic sensors have been proposed and fabricated for applications in measuring temperature, strain, refractive index (RI), electric current, displacement, bending, acceleration, force, rotation, acoustic, and magnetic field. The renowned and unparalleled merits of sensors-based micro-machined optical fibers including small footprint, light weight, immunity to electromagnetic interferences, durability to harsh environment, capability of remote control, and flexibility of directly embedding into the structured system have placed them in highly demand for practical use in diverse industries. With the rapid advancement in micro-technology, micro-structured fiber sensors have benefitted from the trends of possessing high performance, versatilities and spatial miniaturization. Here, we comprehensively review the recent progress in the micro-structured fiber-optic sensors with a variety of architectures regarding their fabrications, waveguide properties and sensing applications.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Galaxies in 2016
Authors:   Galaxies Editorial Office
Published: January 2017

The editors of Galaxies would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2016.[...]
What Is Genealogy? Philosophy, Education, Motivations and Future Prospects
Authors: Durie Bruce
Published: January 2017

This article is a first attempt to generate discussion and academic analysis of the modus operandi of genealogy and genealogists. Genealogy is on the verge of becoming a recognised profession and an academic discipline, with one or more qualification routes. This article summarises the author’s philosophy, motivations and experiences in establishing educational/training courses and qualifications in a University context. Definitions of genealogy and related concepts are discussed, in the light of an epistemological analysis. Such philosophical considerations are rarely discussed among professional genealogists. It is hoped this article will be a stimulus to more enlightened debate of the epistemological and philosophical bases of family history-type genealogy. There is also a dearth of research into the motivations of amateur and professional genealogists, and almost no scholarly scrutiny of genealogy as an academic discipline. Nor can it be dismissed as “a branch of history”; genealogy and history are related but separate disciplines with overlapping skills-sets.
Control of Initiation of DNA Replication in Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli
Authors: Jameson Katie , Wilkinson Anthony
Published: January 2017

Initiation of DNA Replication is tightly regulated in all cells since imbalances in chromosomal copy number are deleterious and often lethal. In bacteria such as Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli, at the point of cytokinesis, there must be two complete copies of the chromosome to partition into the daughter cells following division at mid-cell during vegetative growth. Under conditions of rapid growth, when the time taken to replicate the chromosome exceeds the doubling time of the cells, there will be multiple initiations per cell cycle and daughter cells will inherit chromosomes that are already undergoing replication. In contrast, cells entering the sporulation pathway in B. subtilis can do so only during a short interval in the cell cycle when there are two, and only two, chromosomes per cell, one destined for the spore and one for the mother cell. Here, we briefly describe the overall process of DNA replication in bacteria before reviewing initiation of DNA replication in detail. The review covers DnaA-directed assembly of the replisome at oriC and the multitude of mechanisms of regulation of initiation, with a focus on the similarities and differences between E. coli and B. subtilis.
AAC as a Potential Target Gene to Control Verticillium dahliae
Authors: Su Xiaofeng , Rehman Latifur , Guo Huiming , Li Xiaokang , Zhang Rui , Cheng Hongmei
Published: January 2017

Verticillium dahliae invades the roots of host plants and causes vascular wilt, which seriously diminishes the yield of cotton and other important crops. The protein AAC (ADP, ATP carrier) is responsible for transferring ATP from the mitochondria into the cytoplasm. When V. dahliae protoplasts were transformed with short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeting the VdAAC gene, fungal growth and sporulation were significantly inhibited. To further confirm a role for VdAAC in fungal development, we generated knockout mutants (ΔVdACC). Compared with wild-type V. dahliae (Vd wt), ΔVdAAC was impaired in germination and virulence; these impairments were rescued in the complementary strains (ΔVdAAC-C). Moreover, when an RNAi construct of VdAAC under the control of the 35S promoter was used to transform Nicotiana benthamiana, the expression of VdAAC was downregulated in the transgenic seedlings, and they had elevated resistance against V. dahliae. The results of this study suggest that VdAAC contributes to fungal development, virulence and is a promising candidate gene to control V. dahliae. In addition, RNAi is a highly efficient way to silence fungal genes and provides a novel strategy to improve disease resistance in plants.
Assessment of Food Safety Knowledge, Attitude, Self-Reported Practices, and Microbiological Hand Hygiene of Food Handlers
Authors: Lee Hui , Abdul Halim Hishamuddin , Thong Kwai , Chai Lay
Published: January 2017

Institutional foodborne illness outbreaks continue to hit the headlines in the country, indicating the failure of food handlers to adhere to safe practices during food preparation. Thus, this study aimed to compare the knowledge, attitude, and self-reported practices (KAP) of food safety assessment and microbiological assessment of food handlers’ hands as an indicator of hygiene practices in food premises. This study involved 85 food handlers working in a university located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The food safety KAP among food handlers (n = 67) was assessed using a questionnaire; while the hand swabs (n = 85) were tested for the total aerobic count, coliforms, and Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, Vibrio cholerae and Vibrio parahaemolyticus. The food handlers had moderate levels of food safety knowledge (61.7%) with good attitude (51.9/60) and self-reported practices (53.2/60). It is noteworthy that the good self-reported practices were not reflected in the microbiological assessment of food handlers’ hands, in which 65% of the food handlers examined had a total aerobic count ≥20 CFU/cm2 and Salmonella was detected on 48% of the food handlers’ hands. In conclusion, the suggestion of this study was that the food handlers had adequate food safety knowledge, but perceived knowledge failed to be translated into practices at work.
Surveillance of Clostridium difficile Infections: Results from a Six-Year Retrospective Study in Nine Hospitals of a North Italian Local Health Authority
Authors: Roncarati Greta , Dallolio Laura , Leoni Erica , Panico Manuela , Zanni Angela , Farruggia Patrizia
Published: January 2017

Clostridium difficile is an emerging cause of healthcare associated infections. In nine hospitals of an Italian Local Health Authority the episodes of C. difficile infection (CDI) were identified using the data registered by the centralized Laboratory Information System, from 2010 to 2015. CDI incidence (positive patients for A and/or B toxins per patients-days) was analysed per year, hospital, and ward. A number of cases approximately equivalent to the mean of identified cases per year were studied retrospectively to highlight the risk factors associated to CDI and their severity. Nine hundred and forty-two patients affected by CDI were identified. The overall incidence was 3.7/10,000 patients-days, with a stable trend across the six years and the highest rates observed in smaller and outlying hospitals (up to 17.8/10,000), where the admitted patients were older and the wards with the highest incidences (long-term-care: 7.6/10,000, general medicine: 5.7/10,000) were more represented. The mean age of patients in each hospital was correlated with CDI rates. Of the 101 cases selected for the retrospective study, 86.1% were healthcare associated, 10.9% community acquired; 9.1% met the criteria for recurrent case and 23.8% for severe case of CDI. The overall mortality rate was 28.7%. Comorbidity conditions occurred in 91.1%, previous exposure to antibiotics in 76.2%, and proton pump inhibitors in 77.2%. Recurrent and severe cases were significantly associated with renal insufficiency and creatinine levels ≥2 mg/dL. The survey based on the centralized laboratory data was useful to study CDI epidemiology in the different centres in order to identify possible weaknesses and plan control strategies, in particular the reinforcement of staff training, mainly targeted at compliance with contact precautions and hand hygiene.