bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Study on the Mechanical Properties of Amorphous Alloy Fiber‐Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Jiang Chaohua , Wang Yizhi , Guo Wenwen , Jin Chen , Wei Min
Published: November 2018

With great mechanical properties and corrosion resistance, amorphous alloy fiber (AAF) is a highly anticipated material in the fiber‐reinforced concrete (FRC) field. In this study, the mechanical properties of AAFRC such as compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength were examined. The comparison and analysis between AAFRC and steel fiber‐reinforced concrete (SFRC) were also carried out. The results show that adding fibers significantly improves the concrete strength and toughness index. Compared with plain concrete, the compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and flexural strength of AAFRC increase by 8.21–16.72%, 10.4–32.8%, and 18.12–45.21%, respectively. Meanwhile, the addition of AAF with a greater tensile strength and larger unit volume quantity improves the splitting tensile strength and flexural strength of concrete more noticeably than that of SF. Adding AAF improves the ductility of concrete more significantly in comparison to the SF. AAFRC shows great interfacial bonding performance as well. A prediction equation for the strength of AAFRC was proposed, which verified good accuracy calibrated based on the test results.
Nutrient Budget and Economic Assessment of Blended Fertilizer Use in Kenya Tea Industry
Authors: Sitienei Kibet , Kamiri Hellen W. , Nduru Gilbert M. , Kamau David M.
Published: November 2018

Kenya’s tea industry depends predominantly on imported compound NPK fertilizers to replenish nutrients removed through plucking. These fertilizers cannot be easily manipulated for specific soils and tea clones. They also frequently become hazardous within tea-growing environments. In this respect, two fertilizer blends containing NPKS 25 : 5 : 5 : 4 + 9Ca + 2.62Mg and NPKS 23 : 5 : 5 : 4 + 10Ca + 3Mg with trace elements have been produced commercially in the country. However, the extent to which the blended fertilizers may contribute to optimal economic gains without degrading the environment has not been determined. This was the knowledge gap that this study seeks to address. The goal of this study was to evaluate the economic efficacy of fertilizer blends with the aim of identifying optimal levels of application which would maximize tea productivity with minimal negative impacts on the environment. The study hypothesized that blended fertilizers maximize productivity of tea clones with minimal environmental damage. The fertilizer blends were evaluated in two study sites, i.e., Timbilil Estate in Kericho and Kagochi farm in Nyeri. The sites were selected purposefully, one in the eastern and the other in the western tea-growing areas. The trial was laid out in randomized complete block design with two fertilizer blends and the standard NPK 26 : 5 : 5 as control. The treatments were applied at four fertilizer rates (0 (control), 75, 150, and 225 kg·N·ha−1·yr−1), replicated thrice. Leaf samples were collected and analyzed for nutrient uptake as well as associated yields and economic trends. The economic optimum nitrogen rate (EONR) was achieved at 75 kg·N·ha−1·yr−1 at Kagochi with all fertilizers, while at Timbilil, EONR was variable, between 75 and 225 kg·N·ha−1·yr−1 with fertilizer types. This study has shown that, based on the economic point of view, Blend “A” was the most efficient and consistent fertilizer in production and economic returns across the two sites.
Novel Approaches to Ileocolic and Perianal Fistulising Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Luglio Gaetano , Cassese Gianluca , Amendola Alfonso , Rispo Antonio , Maione Francesco , De Palma Giovanni Domenico
Published: November 2018

Crohn’s disease (CD) is a well-known idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease characterised by transmural inflammation which can ordinarily affect all the gastrointestinal tract. Its true aetiology is unknown, and a causal therapy is not available to date. The most peculiar aspect of CD lies in its absolute heterogeneity, as we might face various scenarios, locations of the disease, pathologic behaviours, and severity of the disease itself. For these reasons, the cornerstone for the treatment of CD lies in a complex multimodal management, requiring close collaborations among surgeons, gastroenterologists, radiologists, and staff nurses. Advances in surgical and medical therapy are changing the course of the disease. Nowadays, the introduction of both laparoscopy and novel surgical techniques, the improvement of recovery pathways, and the opening of new frontiers are allowing healthcare professionals to deal with complex and recurrent scenarios, trying to spare bowel and anal function, thus ensuring a better quality of life for the patient. Given the heterogeneity and complexity of this disease, it would be impractical to encompass all the aspects of surgical management of CD. This review will address areas that are considered to be hot topics, controversies, challenges, and novelties: thus, we will focus on complex ileocecal disease, surgical strategies, and fistulising perianal conditions.
Investigation of the Aquifer Protective Capacity and Groundwater Quality around Some Open Dumpsites in Sapele Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Oseji Julius Otutu , Egbai James Chucks , Okolie Emmanuel Chukwuemeka , Ese Etebefia Chris
Published: November 2018

Aquifer protective capacity and groundwater quality investigations around some open dumpsites were conducted along New Road Sapele, Delta State. Nine Schlumberger arrangements of vertical electrical soundings (VES) were carried out with a maximum electrode separation of 500 m, and obtained data were interpreted by partial curve matching and computer iteration using Win Resist software. 2D survey using nine dipole-dipole stations was also utilized to give resistivity map of the dumpsites, while standard laboratory methods were used to analyze the groundwater. The study shows four to five geoelectric sections. The aquifer is within the third, fourth, and fifth layers at a depth of 30 m. The overburden protective capacity from the total longitudinal unit conductance indicates that VES 1 and 5 are adequately protected with protective capacity of 0.7 to 0.9 mhos, VES 2, 3, 6, and 7 are moderately protected with conductance values of 0.2 to 0.69 mhos, VES 4 is weakly protected with values of 0.12 mhos, and VES 8 and 9 are poorly protected with values of 0.003 to 0.004 mhos. In the 2D imaging, VES 4, 8, and 9 show contaminant presence to the depth of 20 m while VES 3, 6, and 7 show contamination to a depth of 50 m. However, the aquifer shows good transmissivity, an indication that if it is contaminated, the contaminants will circulate the aquifer at a high rate. The groundwater flows in the northeast (NE) direction, thereby recharging river Ethiope. The study also shows the presence of lead (0.01 mg/l), nickel (0.02 mg/l), and cadmium (0.03 mg/l), which made it unsafe for drinking and use in other life-related activities. Groundwater should hence be sourced from a depth of about 45–50 m in order to tap from the uncontaminated aquifer.
Sulforaphane Modulates AQP8‐Linked Redox Signalling in Leukemia Cells
Authors: Prata Cecilia , Facchini Carlotta , Leoncini Emanuela , Lenzi Monia , Maraldi Tullia , Angeloni Cristina , Zambonin Laura , Hrelia Silvana , Fiorentini Diana
Published: November 2018

Sulforaphane, a biologically active isothiocyanate compound extracted from cruciferous vegetables, has been shown to exert cytotoxic effects on many human cancer cells, including leukemia. However, the exact molecular mechanisms behind the action of sulforaphane in hematological malignancies are still unclear. Like other cancer cells, leukemia cells produce high level of reactive oxygen species; in particular, hydrogen peroxide derived from Nox family is involved in various redox signal transduction pathways, promoting cell proliferation and survival. Recent evidence show that many tumour cell types express elevated level of aquaporin isoforms, and we previously demonstrated that aquaporin‐8 acts as H2O2 transport facilitator across the plasma membrane of B1647 cells, a model of acute myeloid human leukemia. Thus, the control of AQP8‐mediated H2O2 transport could be a novel strategy to regulate cell signalling and survival. To this purpose, we evaluated whether sulforaphane could somehow affect aquaporin‐8‐mediated H2O2 transport and/or Nox‐mediated H2O2 production in B1647 cell line. Results indicated that sulforaphane inhibited both aquaporin‐8 and Nox2 expression, thus decreasing B1647 cells viability. Moreover, the data obtained by coimmunoprecipitation technique demonstrated that these two proteins are linked to each other; thus, sulforaphane has an important role in modulating the downstream events triggered by the axis Nox2‐aquaporin‐8. Cell treatment with sulforaphane also reduced the expression of peroxiredoxin‐1, which is increased in almost all acute myeloid leukemia subtypes. Interestingly, sulforaphane concentrations able to trigger these effects are achievable by dietary intake of cruciferous vegetables, confirming the importance of the beneficial effect of a diet rich in bioactive compounds.
Secure Storage and Retrieval of IoT Data Based on Private Information Retrieval
Authors: Riad Khaled , Ke Lishan
Published: November 2018

The fast growth of Internet‐of‐Things (IoT) strategies has actually presented the generation of huge quantities of information. There should exist a method to conveniently gather, save, refine, and also provide such information. On the other hand, IoT data is sensitive and private information; it must not be available to potential attackers. We propose a robust scheme to guarantee both secure IoT data storage and retrieval from the untrusted cloud servers. The proposed scheme is based on Private Information Retrieval (PIR). It stores the data onto different servers and retrieves the requested data slice without disclosing its identity. In our scheme, the information is encrypted before sending to the cloud servers. It is also divided into slices of a specific size class. The experimental analysis on many different configurations supported efficiency and the efficacy of the proposed scheme, which demonstrated compatibility and exceptional performance.
Design of L-Shaped Open-Slot Antenna Used in UAV Airborne Communication System
Authors: Wei Zhang , Junfeng Yang
Published: November 2018

According to the communication demands of communication system used in the UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) communication system, a ladder-shaped open-slotted antenna design is presented. The impedance effects and directional radiation performance of designed antenna are improved with adopting a pair of L-shaped narrow slot and a passive resonator among the antenna structures. The measured results show that the impedance bandwidth of the antenna is about 90%, the frequency range can cover from 3 GHz to 12 GHz, and the antenna has a relative small size just as 22 mm × 24 mm. The antenna is realized through adopting improved ground structure, and its electrical length is increased simultaneously. To improve its impedance matching effect, the ladder structure is adopted in the antenna. The measured results show that the proposed design scheme is useful and effective, the antenna size can be controlled within the size of 22 mm × 24 mm and the good impedance bandwidth can also be obtained, its frequency bandwidth is from 3 GHz to 13.2 GHz, and the designed antenna has good group delay characteristics at the same time.
Toward Dynamic Monitoring and Suppressing Uncertainty in Wildfire by Multiple Unmanned Air Vehicle System
Authors: Rabinovich Sharon , Curry Renwick E. , Elkaim Gabriel H.
Published: November 2018

Containing a wildfire requires an efficient response and persistent monitoring. A crucial aspect is the ability to search for the boundaries of the wildfire by exploring a wide area. However, even as wildfires are increasing today, the number of available monitoring systems that can provide support is decreasing, creating an operational gap and slow response in such urgent situations. The objective of this work is to estimate a propagating boundary and create an autonomous system that works in real time. It proposes a coordination strategy with a new methodology for estimating the periphery of a propagating phenomenon using limited observations. The complete system design, tested on the high-fidelity simulation, demonstrates that steering the vehicles toward the highest perpendicular uncertainty generates the effective predictions. The results indicate that the new coordination scheme has a large beneficial impact on uncertainty suppression. This study thus suggests that an efficient solution for suppressing uncertainty in monitoring a wildfire is to use a fleet of low-cost unmanned aerial vehicles that can be deployed quickly. Further research is needed on other deployment schemes that work in different natural disaster case studies.
Statistical Analysis of Industrial Grinding Brush Force Characteristics Based on Finite Element Approach
Authors: Wang Chong , Guo Hongqiang , Zhao Ying , Sun Qun , Zhao Ling
Published: November 2018

This paper presents an in-depth study of the helical grinding brush force characteristics aiming at developing a mobile robot system to perform rust removal and other surface processing tasks. Based on an off-line Finite Element model that can calculate brush filament deformation and force behaviors, a mathematical regression model has been developed to summarize brush force changes subjected to varying conditions into a series of mathematical equations. The predictions of the mathematical model are well converged with the Finite Element modeled results and the R-squared value is up to 0.95. The paper presents the model form and calibrated coefficients, which may provide an advantageous tool to predict the grinding brush force changes in real time and contribute well to an automatic grinding control application.
Activation of Macrophages by Oligomeric Proteins of Different Size and Origin
Authors: Dalgėdienė Indrė , Lučiūnaitė Asta , Žvirblienė Aurelija
Published: November 2018

Activation of macrophages is one of the key processes in generating the immune response against pathogens or misfolded/aggregated otherwise unharmful host’s proteins. Antigens and their immune complexes (IC) may shape macrophage phenotype in various directions. Data on the impact of protein structure during inflammation are evident; however, some separate steps of this process involving changes in macrophage phenotype are not fully understood. Our aim was to investigate the phenotype of macrophages after activation with different oligomeric proteins and their IC. We have used amyloid beta (Aβ1–42) that plays a role in neurodegenerative inflammation as a model of host-associated protein and three oligomeric viral antigens as pathogen-associated proteins. Murine cell lines J774, BV-2, and macrophage primary cell culture were treated with oligomeric proteins and their IC. After 48 h, expression of surface markers F4/80, CD68, CD86, and CD206 and secreted cytokines IL-10, IL-12, IL-23, and TNF-αwas analysed. Aβ1–42oligomers stimulated expression of both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory molecules; however, fibrils induced less intense expression of markers investigated as compared to small and large oligomers. Two out of three viral oligomeric proteins induced the inflammatory response of macrophages. Data suggest that macrophage activation pattern depends on the origin, size, and structure of oligomeric proteins.
HO‐1 Induction by Selaginella tamariscina Extract Inhibits Inflammatory Response in Lipopolysaccharide‐Stimulated RAW 264.7 Macrophages
Authors: Won An-Na , Kim Sun Ah , Ahn Jung Yun , Han Jae-Hyun , Kim Chang-Hyun , Lee Ju-Hee , Kim Dong-Il
Published: November 2018

Selaginella Herba is the dried, aerial part of Selaginella tamariscina (P.Beauv.) Spring and has been used to treat amenorrhea, abdominal pain, headaches, and hematuria in Korea. However, scientific evidence regarding the anti‐inflammatory activity and action mechanism of Selaginella tamariscina is lacking. Thus, the present study was performed to investigate the anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activities of Selaginella tamariscina ethanol extract (STE) against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced inflammatory responses and identify the molecular mechanism responsible. STE was prepared by heating in 70% ethanol and its quality was confirmed by HPLC. STE dose‐dependently inhibited the productions of inflammatory mediators (NO and PGE2) and proinflammatory cytokines (IL‐1β and IL‐6) in LPS‐stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. STE markedly suppressed the phosphorylations of MAPKs, IκB‐α, and NF‐κB and the nuclear translocation of NF‐κB induced by LPS stimulation. In addition, STE exhibited good free radical scavenging activity and prevented ROS generation by LPS. STE also upregulated the expression of Nrf2 and HO‐1 and promoted the nuclear translocation of Nrf2. Taken together, STE was found to have anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects on RAW 264.7 macrophages and the mechanism appeared to involve the MAPK, NF‐κB, and Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling pathways. These results suggest that STE might be useful for preventing or treating inflammatory diseases and provide scientific evidence that supports the developments of herbal prescriptions or novel natural products.
Complications Associated with the Use of Expandable Gases in Vitrectomy
Authors: Kanclerz Piotr , Grzybowski Andrzej
Published: November 2018

Intraocular gases have been used in vitreoretinal surgery for over 40 years. The aim of this study was to review the complications related to the use of expandable gases in vitrectomy and their management. A PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase search was conducted using the terms “intraocular gas” and “vitrectomy for retinal detachment.” Of the articles retrieved by this method, all publications in English and abstracts of non-English publications were reviewed. Intraocular pressure elevation was reported in up to 58.9% patients after vitrectomy with expandable gas administration for retinal detachment. Vitreoretinal surgery is known to induce cataract development. With that, cataract progression is associated with lens exposure to intraocular gas, the duration of such exposure, patient’s age, and the magnitude of vitreous removal. With intraocular gas, the posterior surface of the lens becomes a strongly refractive factor, resulting in high myopia and temporary vision impairment. Other complications related to the use of expandable gases include anterior chamber and subconjunctival gas displacement. Single reports on subretinal and cranial gas migration were published. In vitrectomy for uncomplicated retinal detachments, attempts to shift from expandable gases towards air are observed. Nevertheless, gas tamponade remains a reasonable choice for patients suffering from retinal detachment.
White Matter Fiber Tractography Using Nonuniform Rational B-Splines Curve Fitting
Authors: Wu Zhanxiong , Wu Dongnan , Xu Dong
Published: November 2018

The study of neural connectivity has grown rapidly in the past decade. Revealing brain anatomical connection improves not only clinical measures but also cognition understanding. In order to achieve this goal, we have to track neural fiber pathways first. Aiming to estimate 3D fiber pathways more accurately from orientation distribution function (ODF) fields, we presented a novel tracking method based on nonuniform rational B-splines (NURBS) curve fitting. First, we constructed ODF fields from high angular resolution diffusion imaging (HARDI) datasets using diffusion orientation transform (DOT) method. Second, under the angular and length constraints, the consecutive diffusion directions were extracted along each fiber pathway starting from a seed voxel. Finally, after the coordinates of the control points and their corresponding weights were determined, NURBS curve fitting was employed to track fiber pathways. The performance of the proposal has been evaluated on the tractometer phantom and real brain datasets. Based on several measure metrics, the resulting fiber pathways show promising anatomic consistency.
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in Artisanal Cheeses in México
Authors: Adame-Gómez Roberto , Toribio-Jimenez Jeiry , Vences-Velazquez Amalia , Rodríguez-Bataz Elvia , Santiago Dionisio Maria Cristina , Ramirez-Peralta Arturo
Published: November 2018

Milk and dairy foods have frequently been implicated in staphylococcal food poisoning, and contaminated raw milk is often involved. The aim of the study was to determine the occurrence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in raw cow milk cheese produced in Mexico. A total of 78 unpasteurized cow milk cheese samples were screened for S. aureus. The isolates were identified as S. aureus based on morphology, Gram stain, catalase test, coagulase test, and mannitol salt agar fermentation. Isolates were subjected to biotyping, the methicillin resistance was analyzed using the disk diffusion, and the Staphylococcus enterotoxin A (SEA) production was examined by a dot-blot analysis. From a total of 78 samples of unpasteurized cheeses analyzed in this study, 44 cheeses were positive for S. aureus; however, a differential contamination between the different types of cheeses was observed, with high risk of contamination in adobero cheese (12, 95% CI 1.75 to 94.20; p=0.002). In this study, the frequency of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was 18.1% (8/44) and of enterotoxin A producers was 18.1% (8/44). When classified by biotypes, MRSA only belongs to the human ecovar biotype (2/8, 25%) and the D biotype (4/8, 50%). S. aureus producers of enterotoxin A were distributed in specific nonhost biotypes.
Nanocomposite Kaolin/TiO2 as a Possible Functional Filler in Automotive Brake Pads
Authors: Dědková Kateřina , Morbach Marcus , Výravský Jakub , Kutláková Kateřina Mamulová , Čabanová Kristina , Vaculík Miroslav , Kukutschová Jana
Published: November 2018

An automotive friction brake pad is a complex system consisting of several components with unique and balanced properties related to operation conditions. There are efforts to develop brake pads with longer lifetime and better friction performance and wear properties. Those properties are related to composition of the pads, and therefore, new materials are being evolved. Tuning the friction and wear properties can be achieved with the selection of a functional filler and optimizing its amount in a formulation of friction brake pad. Laboratory-developed and laboratory-prepared nanocomposite material kaolin/TiO2 (KATI) has been introduced to formulation of the commercially available automotive low-steel brake pad. Kaolin was utilized as a matrix for anchoring TiO2 nanoparticles. New unused pads and pads after AK master, a standard dynamometer testing procedure of friction performance, were investigated using light and scanning electron microscopy providing information on the structure and its changes after the friction processes. Moreover, MTK wear test was used to compare wear rate of the newly developed pad with the reference low-steel pad. Improved durability of the brake pad formulation has been observed together with sufficient friction performance. Microscopic analysis shown homogenous distribution of the KATI nanocomposite in the friction layer. From the obtained results, it can be assumed that the new formulation is promising regarding to the life cycle of the pads and reduction of wear rate and thus potential production of wear particulate emissions.
Genome-Scale Single Nucleotide Resolution Analysis of DNA Methylation in Human Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Bowden Sarah A. , Rodger Euan J. , Bates Michael , Chatterjee Aniruddha , Eccles Michael R. , Stayner Cherie
Published: November 2018

Background: Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is characterized by the formation of fluid-filled cysts in the kidney and end stage renal disease by the fourth or fifth decade of life. Mutations in the PKD1 gene account for 85% of all cases of ADPKD. No curative therapy exists for patients affected by this disease and an underexplored avenue for the treatment of ADPKD is the targeting of epigenetic changes that occur during cystogenesis. Limited data exists on alterations in DNA methylation that are associated with ADPKD. Given the similarities between cyst growth and neoplasia, and the fact that 2 DNA methylation inhibitors are already Food and Drug Administration-approved for the treatment of myelodysplastic syndrome, we hypothesized that global DNA methylation patterns in ADPKD would parallel that observed in neoplasia, and which may provide an opportunity to treat ADPKD with epigenetic inhibitors. To address this hypothesis, we undertook a global DNA methylation analysis of human ADPKD kidney. Methods: We generated single nucleotide resolution methylomes of cortical kidney tissue from individuals with ADPKD, and from non-ADPKD kidney tissue, using reduced representation bisulfite sequencing. Using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, we investigated expression of the PKD1 gene in both ADPKD and non-ADPKD kidney. Results: We have shown that ADPKD-derived genomic DNA exhibits global hypomethylation when compared with non-ADPKD kidney, a pattern commonly observed in DNA methylation studies of tumor-derived tissue. We have also identified 13 discrete regions that are significantly differentially methylated in ADPKD compared to non-ADPKD, and 8 of these are gene specific. The PKD1 gene shows an increase in methylation at the 3′ end of the gene body, but in contrast to previously published data, this is not associated with a decrease in PKD1 mRNA expression. Conclusion: This genome-scale single nucleotide resolution analysis of DNA methylation in human polycystic kidneys suggests that DNA methylation differences at specific loci are associated with ADPKD. Further exploration into the significance of these preliminary results may shed light on the disease process, and potentially reveal new therapeutic possibilities.
Gastric Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Signaling Contributes to Inhibition of Ghrelin Expression Induced by Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass
Authors: Li Danjie , Li Shaojian , Pan Qinling , Zhai Hening , Peng Miao , Wang Xuanxuan , Xu Geyang 
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, RYGB, is the most effective strategy to control body weight in morbid obesity. RYGB leads to rapid improvement of glycemic status and weight loss, which are largely attributed to the alteration of gastrointestinal hormones including ghrelin. The current study examined potential mechanisms of altered ghrelin synthesis after RYGB. Methods: Gastric mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, ghrelin synthesis and secretion were determined in lean or obese male mice with or without RYGB operation, as well as in obese patients pre- and post-RYGB surgery. Ghrelin expression and mTOR signaling were investigated by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Ghrelin mRNA levels were detected by real-time PCR. Plasma ghrelin was measured by enzyme immunoassay. Results: mTOR activity in the gastric fundus was significantly lower than in the forestomachs. Both of them were decreased after 24h fasting. A significant negative correlation was found between gastric levels of phospho-S6 (phospho-S6 ribosomal protein) and proghrelin during changes of energy status. mTOR activity was activated, whereas ghrelin expression was inhibited by Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass in both rodents and human beings. Increment of ghrelin synthesis and decline of mTOR signaling induced by rapamycin were significantly reversed by RYGB in both lean and obese mice. Administration of Ad-S6K1 (adenovirus-mediated p70 ribosomal protein subunit 6 kinase 1) from tail vein suppressed the expression of ghrelin in RYGB-operated mice relative to control animals. Conclusion: mTOR is therefore a gastric fuel sensor whose activity is linked to the regulation of ghrelin after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass.
O futuro incerto das cidades: Uma reflexão niilista sobre as Atopias urbanas
Authors: Leite Rogerio Proença
Published: November 2018

A dimensão alargada do consumo e a transformação do ser em ser-valor e de tudo o que existe em mercadoria, têm tornado a sociedade contemporânea a expressão mais cabal da sociedade de consumo, cuja principal característica é o excesso, a banalização da vida, o descarte, a expulsão humana, a obscenidade violenta das trocas. A cidade Atópica, com suas inescapáveis frustrações de metas inatingíveis de sucesso, produção e felicidade, pode nos fazer pensar que não mais seria possível alguma alternativa de emancipação, tal como fora proposto inicialmente pelo projeto moderno. Restaria o niilismo para entendermos a vida empobrecida de sentido nas megacidades contemporâneas?
Ensino Superior no Brasil das últimas décadas: redução nas desigualdades de acesso?
Authors: Salata André
Published: November 2018

Nas últimas décadas podemos identificar uma significativa expansão do Ensino Superior no Brasil, acompanhada de importantes alterações na composição socioeconômica dos estudantes. O objetivo principal deste trabalho é verificar se esses movimentos levaram também a uma redução das desigualdades nas chances de acesso a esse nível educacional. Com base nos dados da Pesquisa Nacional por Amostra de Domicílios (IBGE), para os anos de 1995, 2005 e 2015, buscaremos não somente descrever as tendências observadas nas duas últimas décadas, como também testar empiricamente, por meio de modelos multivariados, a hipótese de redução das desigualdades de acesso. Mais especificamente, estaremos interessados em avaliar a possível redução dos efeitos de classe de origem sobre as chances de acesso ao Ensino Superior, assim como sobre a qualidade desse acesso, se através da rede pública ou privada, ao longo das últimas duas décadas.
Mobilidades, espaços e identidades na economia eletrônica global. Entrevista com Anthony Elliott
Authors: Freire-Medeiros Bianca , Lages Mauricio Piatti
Published: November 2018

Entrevista com o sociólogo Anthony Elliott
Urry, John. What is the future?
Authors: Moraes Camila Maria dos Santos
Published: November 2018

Resenha do livro de John Urry, What is the future? Cambridge, Polity, 2016
Métodos Móveis
Authors: Büscher Monika , Veloso Leticia
Published: November 2018

Este artigo discute os chamados métodos móveis em sua relação com o novo paradigma das mobilidades e com o papel central do movimento na produção de realidades e mundos sociais e sociofísicos. Em vez de oferecer um “manual de pesquisa”, o artigo apresenta algumas pesquisas emblemáticas no uso desses métodos e como elas avançam nossa compreensão sobre as mobilidades em seus aspectos sociais, políticos, epistemológicos e emocionais. Os exemplos estão agrupados em torno de eixos temáticos: (1) mover-se e tornar-se, (2) mover-se e o movimento, (3) mover-se e comover-se, e (4) mover-se por impulso. Concluímos sugerindo que os métodos móveis podem ser instrumentais para uma "sociologia pública” voltada para a mudança social.
ENGAJAMENTO E CRÍTICA SOCIAL AO RACISMO NA SOCIEDADE ESTADUNIDENSE NO DOCUMENTÁRIO “EU NÃO SOU SEU NEGRO”.
Authors: Rocha Michel Gomes da
Published: November 2018

A resenha crítica analisa o documentário “Eu não sou seu negro”, que possui direção do cineasta haitiano Raoul Peck. A produção se debruça sobre um projeto inacabado do romancista, ensaísta, dramaturgo, poeta e crítico social estadunidense James Baldwin. A narrativa possui uma montagem cinematográfica em capítulos e três níveis, são eles: a escrita de Lembrem- se desta casa (livro que inspira o roteiro do documentário apresentado através de narrador Over), o engajamento de Baldwin para além de suas obras, em falas publicas, e o contexto atual como materialização do diagnostico dado pelo crítico.
Percepção dos responsáveis de crianças e adolescentes sobre prescrição da cadeira de rodas e satisfação com o equipamento.
Authors: Albuquerque e Souza Alessandra Cavalcanti de , Borges Eduarda Caroline Marques , Magalhães Bruna Corrêa , Kososki Edinara , Aramaki Alberto Luiz , Silva e Silva Simone Gonçalves
Published: November 2018

Objetivo: Investigar a percepção dos pais/responsáveis sobre o motivo da solicitação de cadeira de rodas para suas crianças/adolescentes e descrever se existe conforto ou desconforto deles na cadeira, assim como os itens de satisfação ou não no equipamento concedido em um serviço de concessão no município de Uberaba, MG. Métodos: Participaram do estudo 29 crianças/adolescentes com faixa etária mínima de três anos e máxima de 17. Para a coleta dos dados foram aplicados um instrumento estruturado e um roteiro de entrevista. Resultados: A idade média dos participantes foi de 10,03 anos, com predomínio de crianças. O diagnóstico clínico que prevaleceu foi paralisia cerebral. Os resultados mostraram que o motivo da solicitação de prescrição da cadeira de rodas foi mobilidade (46,7%). 86,2% dos pais/responsáveis apontaram perceber desconforto da criança/adolescente durante o uso da cadeira de rodas. Uma maioria declarou estar satisfeito com à mobilidade que a cadeira fornece, e se dizem insatisfeitos com os acessórios (cinto, sistema de sentar, opção de reclínio, dentre outros) da cadeira de rodas. Conclusões: Frente aos apontamentos de desconforto e insatisfação conclui-se que é importante rever o processo de prescrição da cadeira de rodas no serviço de concessão estudado e o acompanhamento das crianças/adolescentes de forma mais próxima, melhorando o serviço de prescrição e seleção dos equipamentos.
Uso de avaliação do desempenho para prescrição de dispositivos de tecnologia assistiva
Authors: Souza Claudiene Aline Fonseca de , Calixto Marcos Ferreira , Marques Marianne Pinheiro , Oliveira Ana Cláudia Barroso de Sá , Alves Ana Cristina de Jesus
Published: November 2018

Introdução: A indicação e implementação da Tecnologia Assistiva (TA), quando realizada de forma integrada, pode auxiliar na prescrição de dispositivos que favoreçam a maior participação nas atividades cotidianas, atenuando o impacto imposto pelas limitações funcionais de indivíduo com deficiência física . Objetivo: verificar as contribuições do uso da Medida Canadense de Desempenho Ocupacional (COPM), fundamentada na prática centrada no cliente, no momento da indicação de TA. Procedimentos metodológicos: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo transversal realizado com 31 indivíduos com deficiência física de um hospital público do Distrito Federal. A coleta de dados ocorreu por meio da aplicação da avaliação COPM, sendo realizada a categorização das TA a partir do levantamento das áreas de desempenho mais comprometidas. Resultados: Do total de participantes, 51,6 % (n=16) solicitaram alguma indicação e/ou confecção de TA. A área de autocuidado foi apontada como a mais comprometida (96,7%), concentrando também, maior número de solicitações de TA. Conclusão: Este estudo pode contribuir com as pesquisas que investigam o uso de avaliações para a indicação de dispositivos e, espera-se que novas pesquisas possam dar continuidade a este processo, priorizando a participação ativa do indivíduo no momento de avaliar as necessidades do uso da TA.
Estratégias de avaliação de condutores de automóveis com mobilidade reduzida
Authors: Fedeger Andréa Maria , Nickel Renato , Teive Helio A G
Published: November 2018

Este estudo tem como objetivo apresentar estratégias para avaliação de condutores de automóveis, com mobilidade reduzida, para terapeutas ocupacionais. Entre as atividades instrumentais da vida diária (AIVD), a mobilidade na comunidade, especificamente dirigindo um carro, é uma atividade que promove autonomia, bem-estar e participação na comunidade. A aptidão para conduzir é o motorista que integra habilidades motoras, visuais e cognitivas dinâmicas. Além disso, o motorista precisa demonstrar conhecimento na legislação de trânsito, controlar o veículo e ter validade na Licença de Motorista Nacional (CNH). Os dados foram produzidos entre 2011 e 2012 através de revisão bibliográfica, documental e pesquisa empírica. Na pesquisa bibliográfica foi utilizada a base de dados LILACs. A legislação brasileira de transito contextualizou as normas neste país. O descritivo transversal é parte da pesquisa chamada “Um estudo descritivo do desempenho de veículos a motor em pessoas diagnosticadas com doença de Parkinson”. Um questionário estruturado na língua inglesa foi aplicado para dois terapeutas ocupacionais norte-americanos. O estudo apresentou a descrição do terapeuta ocupacional como reabilitação do motorista. Foi possível descrever os procedimentos de avaliação de condutores realizados pelo terapeuta ocupacional, incluindo seu campo de prática e desempenho esperado para dirigir um veículo.
A new species of Marphysa Quatrefages, 1865 (Polychaeta: Eunicida: Eunicidae) from northern Australia and a review of similar taxa from the Indo-west Pacific, including the genus Nauphanta Kinberg, 1865
Authors: GLASBY CHRISTOPHER J. , HUTCHINGS PAT A.
Published: November 2018

A taxonomic survey of Marphysa species (Polychaeta: Eunicida: Eunicidae) from coastal regions of northern Australia including recently collected specimens from a fish farm near Darwin, yielded three species: M. mullawa Hutchings & Karageorgopolous, 2003, a first record from northern Australia; M. mossambica (Peters, 1854; was Nauphanta mossambica), first confirmed record from Australia; and a new species, M. fauchaldi. The new species was recorded from intertidal muddy shores as well as in the sediments of fish farm ponds, where it was extremely abundant. It is characterised by a unique combination of chaetal features. A newly proposed informal subgroup of Marphysa, the Teretiuscula-group, is erected to contain the new species and other Marphysa species that share the possession of compound spinigerous chaetae in anterior parapodia only and the peculiar behaviour of encapsulating embryos in jelly cocoons. Morphologically, the new species falls between a group of Marphysa species having only compound spinigers and the recently resurrected genus Nauphanta, which completely lacks compound chaetae. The discovery of this new species necessitated a re-evaluation of the morphological features of Nauphanta and Marphysa species lacking falcigers, in particular homology of fan chaetae, the only apparent synapomorphy of Nauphanta. Fan chaetae appear to be a specialised type of pectinate chaetae, which are found also in species of Marphysa including the new species. Based on this finding, and an evaluation of other characters, Nauphanta is returned to synonymy with Marphysa. Further, an analysis of size-related variation of key morphological characters in M. mossambica and comparison with those in the types of M. novaehollandiae (Kinberg, 1865; formerly Nauphanta) and M. simplex Treadwell, 1922, indicated that both species should be synonymised with M. mossambica. A key is provided to identify Marphysa species of the Indo-west Pacific.
Mammals of Korea: a review of their taxonomy, distribution and conservation status
Authors: JO YEONG-SEOK , BACCUS JOHN T. , KOPROWSKI JOHN L.
Published: November 2018

The Korean Peninsula and its associated Pacific islands have a distinctive, yet poorly studied mammalian fauna. Korea was a land of invasions and wars for many centuries. The loss of large mammals per unit area that has occurred in Korea may have been greater than in any other country. The peninsula has a depauperate rodent community. The forests are mostly harvested, replaced by intensive agriculture. Unfortunately, the dissemination of information about the mammals of Korea and their taxonomy has been limited because most publications were written in Japanese or Korean. We provide an updated checklist of all the species of Korean mammals, including a review of their taxonomy, distribution, and conservation status based on information extracted from international museum collections, local survey databases (Wildlife Survey and National Nature-Environmental Survey, South Korea) and a literature review. We identify 84 species of terrestrial mammals and 43 species of marine mammals that occur, or once occurred, in Korea. Due to previous, erroneous identifications, we delisted three soricids, two vespertilionids, one phocid, one sciurid and one murid. In total, we confirm the presence in Korea of 127 species of mammals distributed in eight Orders and 32 Families. We provide dichotomous keys for the identification of all the Korean species of mammals together with updated distribution maps.
Five new species and new records of the spider genus Stemmops Araneae, Theridiidae, Spintharinae) from Brazil
Authors: SANTANNA MANOELA , RODRIGUES EVERTON NEI LOPES
Published: November 2018

The spider genus Stemmops O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1894, currently comprises 22 described species. Spiders of this genus are mainly known from the Neotropical Region, but are poorly studied in Brazil. In this paper five new species of Brazilian Stemmops are described: Stemmops murici new species; Stemmops carauari new species; Stemmops carajas new species; Stemmops pains new species, and Stemmops guapiacu new species. Additionally, new records from Brazil are provided for Stemmops carius Marques & Buckup, 1996 from state of São Paulo; Stemmops belavista Marques & Buckup, 1996 from Mato Grosso do Sul; and Stemmops vicosa Levi, 1964 from Alagoas. The species Stemmops servus Levi, 1964 (known from Panama) is recorded for the first time in Brazil from states of Amazonas, Paraíba, Alagoas, Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo and Rio de Janeiro.
A new, remarkable erigonine spider genus from eastern Asia (Araneae, Linyphiidae)
Authors: TANASEVITCH ANDREI V.
Published: November 2018

Erigomicronus new genus is erected for Oreonetides longembolus Wunderlich & Li, 1995 (the type species) and Maro lautus Saito, 1984. The genitalia of both species are studied in detail and illustrated. Based to the male palp conformation, the new genus seems to belong to the subfamily Erigoninae, but the epigynum resembles that of some “micronetine” genera, e.g. Maro O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1906, Oreonetides Strand, 1901, etc., based on the presence of a scape-like projection in the epigynum. All records of M. lautus from Russia are erroneous and actually refer to O. longembolus.
Comparing the uniformity of light glass fiber felt based on process improvement, microstructural forming mechanism and physical properties
Authors: Yang Yong , Chen Zhou , Xu Tengzhou , Wu Cao , Awuye Desire E , Chen Zhaofeng
Published: November 2018

Light glass fiber felt (density 10 kg/m3), a porous composite consisting of 83% glass fibers (the average diameter 1.5 µm) and 17% phenolic resin, is usually used to increase sound insulation in the aerospace industry. The purpose of this research is further to improve the uniformity of light glass fiber felts by process optimization, analysis of microstructural forming mechanisms and physical properties. Light glass fiber felt is produced by the flame blowing process. The results show that process optimization can effectively improve the uniformity of light glass fiber felt. Light glass fiber felt exhibits a micro-layer structure seen as consisting of a number of “three-layer” structures, that is dense (more fibers)-loose (less fibers)-dense structure. In addition, process optimization can improve the stability of permeation rate and enhance sound insulation performance, which makes light glass fiber felt an excellent sound insulator.
Biomechanics and wear comparison between mechanical and kinematic alignments in total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Chen Zhenxian , Gao Yongchang , Chen Shibin , Zhang Qida , Zhang Zhifeng , Zhang Jing , Zhang Xuan , Jin Zhongmin
Published: November 2018

The uses of mechanical and kinematic alignments in total knee arthroplasty are under debate in recent clinical investigations. In this study, the differences in short-term biomechanics and long-term wear volume between mechanical and kinematic alignments in total knee arthroplasty were investigated, based on a subject-specific musculoskeletal multi-body dynamics model during walking gait simulation. An increase of 8.2% in the peak tibiofemoral medial contact force, a posterior contact translation by maximum 4.7 mm and a decrease of 5.5% in the wear volume after a 10-million-cycle simulation were predicted in the kinematic alignment, compared with the mechanical alignment. Nevertheless, the tibiofemoral contact mechanics, the range of motions and the long-term wear were not markedly different between mechanical and kinematic alignments. Furthermore, the mechanical alignment with a posterior tibial slope similar to that under the kinematic alignment was found to produce similar anterior–posterior translation and the range of motion, and an approximate wear volume, compared with the kinematic alignment. The ligament forces under the kinematic alignment were influenced markedly by as much as 25%, 50% and 77% for the medial collateral ligament, lateral collateral ligament and posterior cruciate ligament forces, respectively. And, a maximum increase of 40% for patellofemoral contact force was predicted under the kinematic alignment. These findings suggest that the kinematic alignment is an alternative alignment principle but no marked advantages in biomechanics and wear to the mechanical alignment. The adverse effects of the kinematic alignment on patella loading and soft tissue forces should be noticed.
Adverse Metabolic Effects of Diltiazem Treatment During Diabetic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Parriman Matt , Campolo Allison , Waller Amanda P. , Lacombe Véronique A.
Published: November 2018

Diabetes is a global epidemic disease, which leads to multiorgan dysfunction, including heart disease. Diabetes results from the limited absorption of glucose into insulin-sensitive tissues. The heart is one of the main organs to utilize glucose as an energy substrate. Glucose uptake into striated muscle is regulated by a family of membrane proteins called glucose transporters (GLUTs). Although calcium channel blockers, including diltiazem, are widely prescribed drugs for cardiovascular diseases, including in patients with diabetes, their pharmacological effects on glucose metabolism are somewhat controversial. We hypothesized that diltiazem treatment will exhibit detrimental effects on whole body glucose homeostasis and glucose transport in the striated muscle of patients with diabetes. Healthy and streptozotocin-treated rats were randomly assigned to receive diltiazem treatment or a placebo for 8 weeks. Blood glucose was significantly increased in the untreated diabetic groups, which worsened after diltiazem treatment. Diabetes decreased protein content of both GLUT4 (the predominate insulin-sensitive glucose transporter) and AS160 (Akt Substrate at 160 kDa, the downstream protein in the signaling cascade that regulates GLUT4 trafficking) in striated muscle of diabetic rats, with a more pronounced alteration after diltiazem treatment. We additionally reported that diabetic rodents displayed marked systolic dysfunction, which was not rescued by diltiazem treatment. In conclusion, diltiazem treatment worsened the effects of diabetes-induced hyperglycemia and diabetes-induced alterations in the regulation of glucose transport in striated muscle.