bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PERCEPÇÕES DE EGRESSOS DE ENFERMAGEM FRENTE A INSERÇÃO NO MERCADO DE TRABALHO
Authors: Cambiriba Thayse Fernanda Colombo , Ferronato Aline Ferreira , Fontes Kátia Biagio
Published: May 2017

Estudo descritivo exploratório de abordagem qualitativa com o objetivo de identificar as dificuldades encontradas por egressos de enfermagem durante sua inserção de no mercado de trabalho e a percepção destes relacionada ao seu preparo para exercer suas funções como enfermeiro. O estudo foi realizado com 22 egressos de enfermagem de instituição e ensino superior com conclusão da graduação entre os anos de 2008 a 2012. Os dados foram coletados nos meses de julho e agosto de 2013 por meio de questionário semiestruturado, enviados via e-mail, conforme cadastro obtido em Coordenação do Curso de Enfermagem e/ou via redes sociais. Os resultados das questões fechadas foram analisados por meio de estatística descritiva e os depoimentos submetidos a análise de conteúdo de Bardin. Os resultados apontaram que a maioria dos egressos era do sexo feminino, com faixa etária entre 22 a 30 anos, católicos, solteiros, recém-formados, sem especialização e atuando como enfermeiros. Pode-se concluir que a falta de experiência foi apontada como fator de maior dificuldade para a inserção dos recém-graduados no mercado de trabalho, porém não um indicador de desemprego, pois a maioria dos egressos participantes desta pesquisa eram recém-formados e atuavam como enfermeiros. A análise dos dados apontou duas categorias temáticas provenientes dos depoimentos dos egressos: Dificuldades e potencialidades atreladas a formação acadêmica  e Dificuldades e potencialidades atreladas a características individuais.
RELAÇÃO DE TRANSMISSIBILIDADE DA MICROBIOTA BUCAL ENTRE PARES MÃES-FILHOS
Authors: Zaze Ana Carolina Soares Fraga , Tondatti Cinthia Alves , Gamberini Renata , Pfau Veruska de João Malheiros
Published: May 2017

As principais doenças que acometem a cavidade bucal, como a cárie e as doenças periodontais apresentam sua etiologia relacionada à presença de micro-organismos específicos. Esta pesquisa tem como objetivo conhecer a relação de transmissibilidade de micro-organismos presentes na microbiota bucal entre mães e filhos, verificar sua relação e avaliar a presença de doenças bucais nas mães e sua possível interferência na transmissibilidade, identificando os grupos bacterianos mais prevalentes na cavidade bucal de crianças entre 1 a 5 anos de idade e suas mães. Foram selecionados para a pesquisa 10 pares mãe-filho que frequentam a clínica Bebê-Dente da UNIPAR - Umuarama onde foi realizada a coleta do biofilme supragengival e subgengival com cones de papel absorvente estéreis para posterior análise microbiológica. A partir da coleta e análises realizadas, foi verificado crescimento microbiano nas placas de Petri, e microscopicamente detectou-se a presença de cocos, estreptococos, estafilococos e bacilos, o grau de semelhança em relação à coloração de Gram e a atividade da doença cárie. Alguns autores consideram a mãe como a principal fonte de transmissão da microbiota bucal, afirmando que a transmissão provavelmente acontece pelo íntimo contato da mãe com o filho. Concluiu-se com esta pesquisa que o padrão de transmissibilidade dos micro-organismos bucais é determinado pelas mães, ou seja, ocorre uma transmissão vertical. Por isso, é de suma importância conscientizá-las, por meio de programas preventivos, para evitar que aconteça a transmissão de micro-organismos, e consequentemente, a redução do risco de contaminação e desenvolvimento da cárie nas crianças.
MONITORAMENTO DO CICLO ESTRAL DE FÊMEAS EQUINAS POR MEIO DE CITOLOGIA VAGINAL, ULTRASSONOGRAFIA E DOSAGEM HORMONAL
Authors: Pimentel Muriel Magda Lustosa , Santos Fernanda Araujo dos , Dias Regina Valéria da Cunha , Macêdo Luã Barbalho de , Fonseca Zuliete Aliona Araújo de Souza , André Weibson Paz Pinheiro , Ribeiro Wesley Lyeverton Correia
Published: May 2017

O ciclo estral é a sincronia entre eventos comportamentais, anatômicos e endócrinos que resultam na ovulação, e pode ser dividido em fase lútea e fase folicular. A identificação das fases do ciclo estral da égua pode ser acompanhada por meio de várias biotécnicas reprodutivas como, por exemplo, citologia vaginal classificando os diversos tipos de células do epitélio vaginal, ultrassonografia para avaliação da dinâmica folicular e a dosagem hormonal no plasma sanguíneo ou das fezes do animal para caracterizar a fase do ciclo estral que o animal possivelmente se encontra. Sendo assim, o objetivo desta revisão foi discutir a fisiologia do ciclo estral de éguas, a fim de favorecer novas pesquisas relacionadas à biotécnicas reprodutivas para equinos.
CONTAMINAÇÃO POR ENTEROPARASITOS EM VERDURAS DE SUPERMERCADOS E FEIRAS DE UMUARAMA - PR1
Authors: Fernandes Kellen Cristina , Almeida Rodrigo De , Messa Valdeci , Silva4 Aristeu Vieira da
Published: May 2017

O consumo de verduras in natura pode ser um meio de transmissão de vários parasitos. Este estudo teve como objetivo a avaliação parasitológica de amostras de verduras comercializadas em supermercados e feiras-livres no município de Umuarama – PR. Um total de 48 amostras de alface, 40 de couve, 40 de almeirão e 20 de rúcula foram coletadas, com um total de 20 (13,5%) de positivos para Toxocara (5,4%), Ascaris (5,4%), Hymenolepis nana (1,4%), Entamoeba coli (0,7%) e Taenia (0,7%).
SITUAÇÃO DA COMERCIALIZAÇÃO DO LEITE CRU INFORMAL E AVALIAÇÃO MICROBIOLÓGICA E FÍSICO-QUÍMICA NO MUNICÍPIO DE CAFELÂNDIA, PARANÁ, BRASIL
Authors: Sovinski Ângela Idália , Cano Fabíola Giordani , L. Raymundo Nelson Kodama , Barcellos Vinicius Cunha , Bersot Luciano Dos Santos
Published: May 2017

O presente trabalho teve por objetivos verificar o perfil dos consumidores, a situação da comercialização do leite cru informal e avaliar sua qualidade microbiológica, físico-química e pesquisa de inibidores na cidade de Cafelândia, PR. Entrevistas foram realizadas nas residências de quatro regiões do município durante o período de janeiro a junho de 2011 e amostras de leite cru informal obtidas foram analisadas para verificação da qualidade. Foi observado 23% dos entrevistados como consumidores de leite cru informal. Das amostras analisadas, 65 (97%) estavam em desacordo, sendo 51 (76,1%) para CPP; 21 (31,3%) para CCS; 17 (25,4%) para crioscopia; 14 (20,9%) para o teor de gordura; 40 (59,7%) para alizarol 72% e 30 (44,8%) para acidez titulável fora do limite em vigor para leite cru refrigerado estabelecido pela atual legislação em vigor. Nenhuma amostra apresentou presença de inibidores. Leite ácido e instável (38%) e adição de água (25%) foram as principais alterações encontradas. Concluiu-se que o leite cru informal comercializado possui uma baixa qualidade e oferece um risco financeiro de fraude por adulteração.
MÉTODOS PARA AVALIAÇÃO DO COMPORTAMENTO E CORRELAÇÕES ENTRE VARIÁVEIS COMPORTAMENTAIS, METABÓLICAS E PRODUTIVAS DE BOVINOS EM PASTAGEM TROPICAL
Authors: Júnior Hermógenes Almeida Santana , Santana Elizângela Oliveira Cardoso , Figueiredo Cibelle Borges , Maciel Marilene Dos Santos
Published: May 2017

Objetivou-se avaliar as metodologias para avaliação do comportamento e correlações entre o comportamento e consumo, digestibilidade e desempenho. Foram utilizadas 20 novilhas com grau de sangue 5/8 Guzerá linhagem leiteira e 3/8 Holandesa, com média de 18 meses de idade e peso corporal médio de 187 ± 13,1 kg. Os percentuais do pastejo (PAS), da duração de avaliação de 8h e 12h diferiram da duração de avaliação padrão de 24h (P<0,05). A duração de avaliação em testes (8h e 12h) apresentou diferenças da duração de avaliação de 24 horas para os percentuais de ruminação (RUM) (P<0,05). Verificou-se uma correlação positiva entre o PAS e o ganho de peso e ganho médio diário. A duração de avaliação de 24 horas é a recomendada para avaliação do comportamento ingestivo em termos de parâmetros nutricionais e metabólicos. Com exceção dos períodos discretos das atividades comportamentais, o estudo do comportamento pode ser realizado em intervalos de até 30 minutos, sem interferir na precisão dos resultados. O tempo de pastejo, em desacordo com a literatura nacional e internacional, não correlacionou com o consumo em bovinos a pasto. O número e tempo por períodos das atividades, e a taxa de bocado demonstraram estar altamente associados com as variáveis do consumo. Com exceção do coeficiente de digestibilidade da fibra em detergente neutro, o tempo de pastejo e ruminação não apresentaram relação com os demais coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente de bovinos a pasto. Além disso, o desempenho não foi associado ao comportamento ingestivo de bovinos a pasto.
SUBDOSE DE ACEPROMAZINA NO ACUPONTO YIN TANG PARA TRANQUILIZAÇÃO DE CÃES
Authors: Neto João Amorim , Quessada Ana Maria , Lopes Rallyson Ramon Fernando Barbosa , Alves Raíssa Paula Araújo , Borges Talita Bianchin , Rufino Pedro Henrique Quessada
Published: May 2017

Foi realizado um estudo para investigar a tranquilização de cães com subdose de acepromazina no acuponto yin tang, localizado no ponto médio de uma linha traçada entre os cantos laterais dos olhos. O estudo foi delineado em quatro protocolos, utilizando-se oito cães. No primeiro protocolo (P1) foi administrada acepromazina no yin tang em subdose (0,01mg/kg). No segundo protocolo (P2) foi administrada a mesma dose utilizada em P1 por via intramuscular (IM). No terceiro protocolo (P3) foi administrada dose terapêutica (0,1mg/kg) IM. No quarto protocolo (P4) foi colocada uma agulha de acupuntura no yin tang. Durante as etapas foram aferidos: frequência cardíaca (FC), frequência respiratória (FR) e temperatura retal (TR). Tais aferições foram realizadas antes dos tratamentos, quinze minutos após a administração do fármaco e de quinze em quinze minutos até duas horas. Nos mesmos momentos foi pesquisada a presença ou ausência de decúbito, sonolência, ptose palpebral e outros sinais de tranquilização. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente. No tratamento experimental (P1) dois cães apresentaram tranquilização satisfatória e um moderada, sem diferença significativa com o grupo no qual se administrou acepromazina em dose terapêutica IM. Concluiu-se que a administração de acepromazina em subdose no acuponto Yin Tang pode ser usada com segurança na rotina clínica nas mais diversas manipulações nas quais haja necessidade de tranquilização de cães.
A INTRODUÇÃO DO GÊNERO Cichla [BLOCK E SCHNEIDER, 1801] NA PLANÍCIE DE INUNDAÇÃO DO ALTO RIO PARANÁ
Authors: Gasques Luciano Seraphim , Fabrin Thomaz Mansini Carrenho , Prioli Sônia Maria Alves Pinto , Prioli Alberto José
Published: May 2017

As espécies que compõem o gênero Cichla Block e Schneider, 1801 são piscívoras, possuem grande plasticidade fenotípica e oferecem cuidados para sua prole, motivos estes que as tornam invasoras de alto impacto ambiental. O conhecimento taxonômico e da diversidade genética são importantes para o monitoramento populacional das espécies introduzidas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar as espécies e esboçar um histórico da presença do gênero Cichla na planície de inundação do alto rio Paraná evidenciando a problemática de sua introdução nesta região. Análises de diversidade genética em populações introduzidas na bacia do rio Paraná de Cichla kelberi [Kullander e Ferreira, 2006] e C. piquiti [Kullander e Ferreira, 2006] têm demonstrado a origem dos espécimes introduzidos assim como a sua hibridação.
APLICAÇÃO DA TÉCNICA DE RT-PCR PARA Metapneumovírus aviário (aMPV)
Authors: Filho Hiran Castagnino Kunert , Hentges Lucas Peretti , Grassotti Tiela Trapp , Brito Kelly Cristina Tagliari de , Carvalho Daiane , Cunha Augusto César da , Souto Cavalli Lissandra Souto Cavalli , Otutumi Luciana Kazue , Brito Benito Guimarães de
Published: May 2017

Os principais hospedeiros do Metapneumovírus aviário (aMPV) são os frangos de corte e perus. O vírus acomete o trato respiratório superior dos perus desencadeando a Rinotraqueíte Viral dos Perus (RVP). O principal objetivo deste trabalho foi padronizar uma técnica de RT-PCR para a detecção do aMPV, por meio do uso do kit AccessQuick™ RT-PCR system (Promega®). Foram utilizados amostras de suabes de traqueia e pulmão de 38 perus comerciais com sintomatologia respiratória e dois suabes oculares de faisão. O RNA viral foi extraído utilizando-se o kit RTP® DNA/RNA Virus Mini Kit (STRATEC Molecular). Em seguida as amostras foram submetidas à RT-PCR One Step, utilizando o kit AccessQuick™ RT-PCR system (Promega®). Todas as 40 amostras testadas por RT-PCR foram negativas, exceto a amostra vacinal que foi utilizada como controle positivo. O aMPV não causa latência em frangos de corte ou perus, logo a excreção viral é limitada. Dessa forma, a ausência da detecção de genoma viral neste estudo pode ser justificada devido à idade que as amostras foram coletadas em perus, com 140 dias no abatedouro, impossibilitando dessa maneira a amplificação do genoma do aMPV. Porém, esse estudo também mostra que a RT-PCR se mostrou eficaz para detectar o genoma viral do aMPV, podendo dessa forma ser utilizado como uma ferramenta de diagnóstico rápido para investigação e estudo de casos de aMPV em rebanho de perus.
COMPORTAMENTO DE POEDEIRAS CRIADAS EM DIFERENTES DENSIDADES POPULACIONAIS DE ALOJAMENTO
Authors: Garcia Elis Regina de Moraes , Nunes Kelly Cristina , Cruz Flavia Kleszcz da , Ferraz André Luiz Julien , Batista Natália Ramos , Filho João Antonio Barbosa
Published: May 2017

Objetivou-se avaliar os parâmetros fisiológicos e comportamentais de poedeiras de ovos vermelhos em diferentes densidades de alojamento. Utilizaram-se 150 poedeiras Dekalb Brown com 30 semanas de idade, durante 84 dias (quatro ciclos de 21 dias). As aves foram alojadas em galpão convencional com gaiolas metálicas de arame galvanizado, com duas subdivisões de 50 x 45 x 40 cm. Adotou-se o delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado com três tratamentos e cinco repetições. As densidades avaliadas foram: oito (562,5 cm²/ave); 10 (450,0 cm²/ave) e 12 aves/gaiola (375,0 cm²/ave). Foram avaliados os parâmetros fisiológicos (frequência respiratória e temperaturas da pele, retal, crista, barbela e canela) e comportamentais (comendo, bebendo, sentada, postura, parada, movimentos de conforto, investigando pernas, bicagens - agressiva e não agressiva) em dois períodos distintos (manhã e tarde), considerando 30 minutos para cada período de avaliação comportamental. Conclui-se que a criação de poedeiras em menor densidade (562,5 cm2/ave) permite a maior dissipação de calor por meio da crista. O alojamento das aves na densidade de oito aves/gaiola (562,5 cm²/ave) mostrou-se mais adequado às condições fisiológicas de poedeiras criadas em sistema de gaiolas.
Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour of Master of Physical Therapy Students: An Exploratory Study of Facilitators and Barriers
Authors: Smetaniuk Tracey , Johnson Darren , Creurer Jeremy , Block Kristi , Schlegel Magdalena , Butcher Scotty , Oosman Sarah N.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: A full 85% of Canadians fail to meet physical activity (PA) guidelines, and 69% report being sedentary. Physical therapists are uniquely positioned to promote an active lifestyle; thus, we explored the PA and sedentary behaviour (SB) of Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) students as well as the associated facilitators and barriers. Methods: We used a mixed-methods approach, accelerometry and photovoice (a focus group discussion in which participants discussed self-selected photographs). Accelerometer data were used to quantify PA (light, moderate, and vigorous) and SB. Thematic analysis of the focus group discussion was informed by the socio-ecological model. Results: A total of 26% of participants met national PA guidelines, and mean daily sedentary time for participants was 670.7 (SD 34.4) minutes. Photovoice analysis revealed four main themes related to the facilitators of and barriers to PA and SB: (1) priorities and life balance, (2) commitment and accountability, (3) environment, and (4) MPT programming. Conclusions: A full 74% of participants did not meet the recommended PA guidelines; this is concerning given their immanent roles as health care professionals. Physical therapists are well prepared to prescribe PA to clients. Not only do MPT students need competencies in prescribing PA and exercise, but they may also need to be supported in meeting PA guidelines themselves and limiting SB throughout their studies.
Fragmentation in International Law and Global Governance
Authors: Pankakoski Timo , Vihma Antto
Published: May 2017

This article examines the concept and metaphor of fragmentation and its
underlying assumptions in international law and global governance. After
engaging with fragmentation historically, we analyze current debates through
five conceptual perspectives. Fragmentation is oft en perceived as a process, a
gradation, a process with a single direction, a prognosis, and normatively as
either loss or liberation. These interlinked tendencies carry conceptual implications,
such as making fragmentation apparently inevitable or provoking
positive revaluations of fragmentation in terms of differentiation. Furthermore,
the conceptual coupling of fragmentation with modernity enhances
these effects with an historical thesis. Consequently, fragmentation appears as
a ubiquitous and necessary, rather than contingent, feature of modern law—a
conceptual implication that may hinder empirical work, and that merits critical
analysis.
Initial Analysis, Planning and Calculation of Vertical Delivery in High-rise Building Construction
Authors: Suđić Simo
Published: May 2017

Tower crane plays a vital role in materials delivery in construction projects. General contractors often use technical and commercial quotes to calculate number of cranes and their engagement duration in project, and they often have to deal with commercial and time risks. The main reason for this approach is the lack of standardised methodologies for calculating tower cranes engagement. Identifying the optimal number of cranes, their location and duration of engagement at the building site are the major factors that can reduce the risks considering the time and cost by increasing productivity and thus decreasing the required time. Calculation will be based on different production parameters -space per worker, concrete production per crane or worker, lifting time. This paper presents a methodology for calculating the required number of cranes and their optimal positioning. Proposed model for crane engagement optimisation is developed using the Critical Path Method in Primavera P6 software.
Design and Implementation of a Multi-Modal Biometric System for Company Access Control
Authors: Stefani Elisabetta , Ferrari Carlo
Published: May 2017

This paper is about the design, implementation, and deployment of a multi-modal biometric system to grant access to a company structure and to internal zones in the company itself. Face and iris have been chosen as biometric traits. Face is feasible for non-intrusive checking with a minimum cooperation from the subject, while iris supports very accurate recognition procedure at a higher grade of invasivity. The recognition of the face trait is based on the Local Binary Patterns histograms, and the Daughman’s method is implemented for the analysis of the iris data. The recognition process may require either the acquisition of the user’s face only or the serial acquisition of both the user’s face and iris, depending on the confidence level of the decision with respect to the set of security levels and requirements, stated in a formal way in the Service Level Agreement at a negotiation phase. The quality of the decision depends on the setting of proper different thresholds in the decision modules for the two biometric traits. Any time the quality of the decision is not good enough, the system activates proper rules, which ask for new acquisitions (and decisions), possibly with different threshold values, resulting in a system not with a fixed and predefined behaviour, but one which complies with the actual acquisition context. Rules are formalized as deduction rules and grouped together to represent “response behaviors” according to the previous analysis. Therefore, there are different possible working flows, since the actual response of the recognition process depends on the output of the decision making modules that compose the system. Finally, the deployment phase is described, together with the results from the testing, based on the AT&T Face Database and the UBIRIS database.
Stereoscopic Image Super-Resolution Method with View Incorporation and Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Pan Zhiyong , Jiang Gangyi , Jiang Hao , Yu Mei , Chen Fen , Zhang Qingbo
Published: May 2017

Super-resolution (SR) plays an important role in the processing and display of mixed-resolution (MR) stereoscopic images. Therefore, a stereoscopic image SR method based on view incorporation and convolutional neural networks (CNN) is proposed. For a given MR stereoscopic image, the left view of which is observed in full resolution, while the right view is viewed in low resolution, the SR method is implemented in two stages. In the first stage, a view difference image is defined to represent the correlation between views. It is estimated by using the full-resolution left view and the interpolated right view as input to the modified CNN. Accordingly, a high-precision view difference image is obtained. In the second stage, to incorporate the estimated right view in the first stage, a global reconstruction constraint is presented to make the estimated right view consistent with the low-resolution right view in terms of the MR stereoscopic image observation model. Experimental results demonstrated that, compared with the SR convolutional neural network (SRCNN) method and depth map based SR method, the proposed method improved the reconstructed right view quality by 0.54 dB and 1.14 dB, respectively, in the Peak Signal to Noise Ratio (PSNR), and subjective evaluation also implied that the proposed method produced better reconstructed stereoscopic images.
Split-And-Delay Unit for FEL Interferometry in the XUV Spectral Range
Authors: Usenko Sergey , Przystawik Andreas , Lazzarino Leslie , Jakob Markus , Jacobs Florian , Becker Christoph , Haunhorst Christian , Kip Detlef , Laarmann Tim
Published: May 2017

In this work we present a reflective split-and-delay unit (SDU) developed for interferometric time-resolved experiments utilizing an (extreme ultraviolet) XUV pump–XUV probe scheme with focused free-electron laser beams. The developed SDU overcomes limitations for phase-resolved measurements inherent to conventional two-element split mirrors by a special design using two reflective lamellar gratings. The gratings produce a high-contrast interference signal controlled by the grating displacement in every diffraction order. The orders are separated in the focal plane of the focusing optics, which enables one to avoid phase averaging by spatially selective detection of a single interference state of the two light fields. Interferometry requires a precise relative phase control of the light fields, which presents a challenge at short wavelengths. In our setup the phase delay is determined by an in-vacuum white light interferometer (WLI) that monitors the surface profile of the SDU in real time and thus measures the delay for each laser shot. The precision of the WLI is 1 nm as determined by optical laser interferometry. In the presented experimental geometry it corresponds to a time delay accuracy of 3 as, which enables phase-resolved XUV pump–XUV probe experiments at free-electron laser (FEL) repetition rates up to 60 Hz.
Prediction of Maximum Story Drift of MDOF Structures under Simulated Wind Loads Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Payán-Serrano Omar , Bojórquez Edén , Bojórquez Juan , Chávez Robespierre , Reyes-Salazar Alfredo , Barraza Manuel , López-Barraza Arturo , Rodríguez-Lozoya Héctor , Corona Edgar
Published: May 2017

The aim of this paper is to investigate the prediction of maximum story drift of Multi-Degree of Freedom (MDOF) structures subjected to dynamics wind load using Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) through the combination of several structural and turbulent wind parameters. The maximum story drift of 1600 MDOF structures under 16 simulated wind conditions are computed with the purpose of generating the data set for the networks training with the Levenberg–Marquardt method. The Shinozuka and Newmark methods are used to simulate the turbulent wind and dynamic response, respectively. In order to optimize the computational time required for the dynamic analyses, an array format based on the Shinozuka method is presented to perform the parallel computing. Finally, it is observed that the already trained ANNs allow for predicting adequately the maximum story drift with a correlation close to 99%.
Utilization of Sugarcane Bagasse by Halogeometricum borinquense Strain E3 for Biosynthesis of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate)
Authors: Salgaonkar Bhakti , Bragança Judith
Published: May 2017

Sugarcane bagasse (SCB), one of the major lignocellulosic agro-industrial waste products, was used as a substrate for biosynthesis of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) by halophilic archaea. Among the various wild-type halophilic archaeal strains screened, Halogeometricum borinquense strain E3 showed better growth and PHA accumulation as compared to Haloferaxvolcanii strain BBK2, Haloarcula japonica strain BS2, and Halococcus salifodinae strain BK6. Growth kinetics and bioprocess parameters revealed the maximum PHA accumulated by strain E3 to be 50.4 ± 0.1 and 45.7 ± 0.19 (%) with specific productivity (qp) of 3.0 and 2.7 (mg/g/h) using NaCl synthetic medium supplemented with 25% and 50% SCB hydrolysate, respectively. PHAs synthesized by strain E3 were recovered in chloroform using a Soxhlet apparatus. Characterization of the polymer using crotonic acid assay, X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectroscopy analysis revealed the polymer obtained from SCB hydrolysate to be a co-polymer of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) [P(3HB-co-3HV)] comprising of 13.29 mol % 3HV units.
RGD-Binding Integrins in Head and Neck Cancers
Authors: Ahmedah Hanadi , Patterson Laurence , Shnyder Steven , Sheldrake Helen
Published: May 2017

Alterations in integrin expression and function promote tumour growth, invasion, metastasis and neoangiogenesis. Head and neck cancers are highly vascular tumours with a tendency to metastasise. They express a wide range of integrin receptors. Expression of the αv and β1 subunits has been explored relatively extensively and linked to tumour progression and metastasis. Individual receptors αvβ3 and αvβ5 have proved popular targets for diagnostic and therapeutic agents but lesser studied receptors, such as αvβ6, αvβ8, and β1 subfamily members, also show promise. This review presents the current knowledge of integrin expression and function in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (HNSCC), with a particular focus on the arginine-glycine-aspartate (RGD)-binding integrins, in order to highlight the potential of integrins as targets for personalised tumour-specific identification and therapy.
Chemotherapeutic Drugs: DNA Damage and Repair in Glioblastoma
Authors: Annovazzi Laura , Mellai Marta , Schiffer Davide
Published: May 2017

Despite improvements in therapeutic strategies, glioblastoma (GB) remains one of the most lethal cancers. The presence of the blood–brain barrier, the infiltrative nature of the tumor and several resistance mechanisms account for the failure of current treatments. Distinct DNA repair pathways can neutralize the cytotoxicity of chemo- and radio-therapeutic agents, driving resistance and tumor relapse. It seems that a subpopulation of stem-like cells, indicated as glioma stem cells (GSCs), is responsible for tumor initiation, maintenance and recurrence and they appear to be more resistant owing to their enhanced DNA repair capacity. Recently, attention has been focused on the pivotal role of the DNA damage response (DDR) in tumorigenesis and in the modulation of therapeutic treatment effects. In this review, we try to summarize the knowledge concerning the main molecular mechanisms involved in the removal of genotoxic lesions caused by alkylating agents, emphasizing the role of GSCs. Beside their increased DNA repair capacity in comparison with non-stem tumor cells, GSCs show a constitutive checkpoint expression that enables them to survive to treatments in a quiescent, non-proliferative state. The targeted inhibition of checkpoint/repair factors of DDR can contribute to eradicate the GSC population and can have a great potential therapeutic impact aiming at sensitizing malignant gliomas to treatments, improving the overall survival of patients.
The Therapeutic Targeting of HGF/c-Met Signaling in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Alternative Approaches
Authors: Hu Chi-Tan , Wu Jia-Ru , Cheng Chuan-Chu , Wu Wen-Sheng
Published: May 2017

The poor prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the most devastating cancers worldwide, is due to frequent recurrence and metastasis. Among the metastatic factors in the tumor microenvironment, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) has been well known to play critical roles in tumor progression, including HCC. Therefore, c-Met is now regarded as the most promising therapeutic target for the treatment of HCC. However, there are still concerns about resistance and the side effects of using conventional inhibitors of c-Met, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Recently, many alternative strategies of c-Met targeting have been emerging. These include targeting the downstream effectors of c-Met, such as hydrogen peroxide-inducible clone 5 (Hic-5), to block the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated signaling for HCC progression. Also, inhibition of endosomal regulators, such as PKCε and GGA3, may perturb the c-Met endosomal signaling for HCC cell migration. On the other hand, many herbal antagonists of c-Met-dependent signaling, such as saponin, resveratrol, and LZ-8, were identified. Taken together, it can be anticipated that more effective and safer c-Met targeting strategies for preventing HCC progression can be established in the future.
Ethics and the Potential Conflicts between Astrobiology, Planetary Protection, and Commercial Use of Space
Authors: Persson Erik
Published: May 2017

A high standard of planetary protection is important for astrobiology, though the risk for contamination can never be zero. It is therefore important to find a balance. If extraterrestrial life has a moral standing in its own right, it will also affect what we have to do to protect it. The questions of how far we need to go to protect extraterrestrial life will be even more acute and complicated when the time comes to use habitable worlds for commercial purposes. There will also be conflicts between those who want to set a world aside for more research and those who want to give the green light for development. I believe it is important to be proactive in relation to these issues. The aim of my project is therefore to identify, elucidate, and if possible, suggest solutions to potential conflicts between astrobiology, planetary protection, and commercial use of space.
Technology, Preparation and Properties of the Cast Glass-Coated Magnetic Microwires
Authors: Baranov Serghei , Larin Vladimir , Torcunov Alexander
Published: May 2017

Magnetic properties of cast amorphous and nanocrystalline microwires have been reviewed considering their potential application. Microwires were produced from Co Fe Mn Cr Cu B and Si using the Taylor–Ulitovsky method. Technological aspects of the Taylor–Ulitovsky method for fabrication of glass-coated microwire with different structure are analyzed. Magnetic microwires demonstrate a large variety of magnetic behaviors, which is important for sensing applications. Depending on the chemical composition of the metallic core, for Co-, Fe- and Ni-based composition, the microwires’ properties are very different. The geometrical characteristics (diameter of metallic core and thickness of the glass) of the microwire depend on the physical properties of a metallic composition and of glass and the parameters of the heating inductor and the speed of obtaining a microwire. The diameter of metallic core in these microwires can range from 0.5 to 70 μm, and their thickness of the glass can vary from 1 to 50 μm.
Effects of Changing Substituents on the Non-Linear Optical Properties of Two Coumarin Derivatives
Authors: Baseia Basílio , Osório Francisco , Lima Larissa , Valverde Clodoaldo
Published: May 2017

In this article, we study the electric properties of two coumarin derivatives whose difference stems from the change of substituents at 3-position of the pendant benzene ring ( C 18 H 15 NO 3 ) and ( C 18 H 15 NO 4 ). We use the supermolecule approach to deal with the molecules under the effect of the crystalline environment to calculate dipole moment, linear polarizability, and second-order hyperpolarizability, for the isolated and embedded molecules, including the static and dynamic cases and the presence of solvents. The (hyper) polarizabilities were derived from an iterative process and an ab initio computational procedure. In addition, we also calculated the HOMO-LUMO energies; at this point, the objective is to verify the effect of the exchange of substituents on the Band-Gap energy, an important parameter related to the excitation properties of coumarin compounds.
Analytical Tools to Improve Optimization Procedures for Lateral Flow Assays
Authors: Hsieh Helen , Dantzler Jeffrey , Weigl Bernhard
Published: May 2017

Immunochromatographic or lateral flow assays (LFAs) are inexpensive, easy to use, point-of-care medical diagnostic tests that are found in arenas ranging from a doctor’s office in Manhattan to a rural medical clinic in low resource settings. The simplicity in the LFA itself belies the complex task of optimization required to make the test sensitive, rapid and easy to use. Currently, the manufacturers develop LFAs by empirical optimization of material components (e.g., analytical membranes, conjugate pads and sample pads), biological reagents (e.g., antibodies, blocking reagents and buffers) and the design of delivery geometry. In this paper, we will review conventional optimization and then focus on the latter and outline analytical tools, such as dynamic light scattering and optical biosensors, as well as methods, such as microfluidic flow design and mechanistic models. We are applying these tools to find non-obvious optima of lateral flow assays for improved sensitivity, specificity and manufacturing robustness.
Improving the Naive Bayes Classifier via a Quick Variable Selection Method Using Maximum of Entropy
Authors: Abellán Joaquín , Castellano Javier
Published: May 2017

Variable selection methods play an important role in the field of attribute mining. The Naive Bayes (NB) classifier is a very simple and popular classification method that yields good results in a short processing time. Hence, it is a very appropriate classifier for very large datasets. The method has a high dependence on the relationships between the variables. The Info-Gain (IG) measure, which is based on general entropy, can be used as a quick variable selection method. This measure ranks the importance of the attribute variables on a variable under study via the information obtained from a dataset. The main drawback is that it is always non-negative and it requires setting the information threshold to select the set of most important variables for each dataset. We introduce here a new quick variable selection method that generalizes the method based on the Info-Gain measure. It uses imprecise probabilities and the maximum entropy measure to select the most informative variables without setting a threshold. This new variable selection method, combined with the Naive Bayes classifier, improves the original method and provides a valuable tool for handling datasets with a very large number of features and a huge amount of data, where more complex methods are not computationally feasible.
Relationship between Institutional Factors and FDI Flows in Developing Countries: New Evidence from Dynamic Panel Estimation
Authors: Kurul Zühal , Yalta A.
Published: May 2017

In this paper, we revisit the relation between institutional factors and foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows in developing countries by employing a dynamic panel methodology, which enables us to deal with the persistency of FDI flows and endogeneity issues. We also contribute to the literature by using various measures of institutions to identify which aspects of institutional quality affect FDI in the developing world. Our empirical findings based on 113 developing countries over the period 2002–2012 show evidence that some institutional factors matter more than others in attracting more FDI flows. We also found that the financial crisis in 2008 and 2009 had a negative impact on FDI flows.
Lifetime Assessment of Combined Cycles for Cogeneration of Power and Heat in Offshore Oil and Gas Installations
Authors: Riboldi Luca , Nord Lars
Published: May 2017

The utilization of combined cycles for offshore cogeneration of power and heat is an attractive option to reduce the CO2 emissions directly related to the oil and gas sector. Main challenges for their efficient implementation are the potentially large heat-to-power ratios and the variability of power and heat requirements throughout the different stages of a field’s lifetime. This paper aimed to provide the first elements for an assessment of the technology. Two combined cycle configurations were evaluated (backpressure and extraction steam turbine cycle), as well as different scenarios of power and heat requirements. The optimum design approach was firstly investigated. Designing the combined cycle at the end-life conditions, rather than at peak conditions, demonstrated to return better overall performance, when the entire plant’s lifetime is considered. A comparative analysis between the defined optimum designs was then carried out. Although the backpressure steam turbine cycle demonstrated to be feasible in all the cases analyzed, it showed to be effective only for offshore installations characterized by low temperature large process heat demands. On the other hand, the extraction steam turbine cycle could not meet large process heat demands but it was very attractive when the heat requirements were more limited, irrespective of the temperature at which this heat was requested.
Gas Flow Behavior of Nanoscale Pores in Shale Gas Reservoirs
Authors: Shen Weijun , Li Xizhe , Xu Yanmei , Sun Yuping , Huang Weigang
Published: May 2017

The gas transport in shale nanopores is always one of the major concerns in terms of the development of shale gas reservoirs. In this study, the gas flow regimes in shale nanopores were classified and analyzed according to Knudsen number. Then the gas flow model considering Darcy flow, slip flow, transition flow, molecular free flow and adsorption effect was proposed to evaluate the gas flow behavior in shale nanopores. The result shows that the contributions of Darcy flow, slip flow and transition flow in shale nanopores are reciprocal, and are mainly dominated by pore radius and pressure. The adsorption effect greatly influences the total mass flux. The total mass flux will increase as Langmuir pressure and temperature increase while it will decrease with reservoir pressure and the adsorption thickness. These results can provide insights for a better understanding of gas flow in the shale nanopores so as to optimize the production performance of shale gas reservoirs.
Design and Implementation of Low-Power Analog-to-Information Conversion for Environmental Information Perception
Authors: Shen Shu , Shan Yue , Sun Lijuan , Sun Jian , Zou Zhiqiang , Wang Ruchuan
Published: May 2017

Because sensing nodes typically have limited power resources, it is extremely important for signals to be acquired with high efficiency and low power consumption, especially in large-scale wireless sensor networks (WSNs) applications. An emerging signal acquisition and compression method called compressed sensing (CS) is a notable alternative to traditional signal processing methods and is a feasible solution for WSNs. In our previous work, we studied several data recovery algorithms and network models that use CS for compressive sampling and signal recovery. The results were validated on large data sets from actual environmental monitoring WSNs. In this paper, we focus on the hardware solution for signal acquisition and processing on separate end nodes. We propose the paradigm of an analog-to-information converter (AIC) based on CS theory. The system model consists of a modulation module, filtering module, and sampling module, and was simulated and analyzed in a MATLAB/Simulink 7.0 environment. Further, the hardware design and implementation of an improved digital AIC system is presented. We also study the performances of three different greedy data recovery algorithms and analyze the system power consumption. The experimental results show that, for normal environmental signals, the new system overcomes the Nyquist limit and exhibits good recovery performance with a low sampling frequency, which is suitable for environmental monitoring based on WSNs.
Seed Origin and Protection Are Important Factors Affecting Post-Fire Initial Recruitment in Pine Forest Areas
Authors: Lucas-Borja Manuel , Candel-Pérez David , Onkelinx Thierry , Fule Peter , Moya Daniel , De las Heras Jorge , Tíscar Pedro
Published: May 2017

Initial seedling recruitment is one of the most critical stages for plants in the Mediterranean basin. Moreover, wildfires and post-fire environmental conditions might deteriorate regeneration success, which can lead to problems for sustainable forest restoration and forest persistence. On this context, different seed origins and pine species may be better adapted to new environmental conditions remaining after forest fires and seed protection might modulate seedling initial recruitment. This study evaluates the effects of seed origin (Pinus nigra Arn. subsp. salzmannii Dunal (Franco) from lowland, midland and upland distribution areas), pine species (Pinus pinaster Aiton, Pinus sylvestris L. and Pinus nigra Arn. subsp. salzmannii Dunal (Franco)) and seed protection on seed emergence and early seedling survival after forest fires in the Cuenca Mountains. In addition, a greenhouse experiment was set up under controlled conditions to test seedling performance and to compare initial seedling growth of different P. nigra seed origins growing in field and greenhouse conditions. Results showed that wetter spring seasons and P. nigra seed origins from midland and upland distribution growing in their natural habitat distribution perform better that P. sylvestris and P. pinaster. Seed protection is an important factor modulating the above-mentioned trend. P. nigra seeds growing at the greenhouse experiment showed differences in growth for extreme (upland or lowland) P. nigra distribution.
Post-Fire Restoration Plan for Sustainable Forest Management in South Korea
Authors: Ryu Soung-Ryoul , Choi Hyung-Tae , Lim Joo-Hoon , Lee Im-Kyun , Ahn Young-Sang
Published: May 2017

This review was to determine a standard post-fire restoration strategy for use in South Korea according to the magnitude of the damage and the condition of the affected site. The government has strongly enforced reforestation in deforested areas as well as fire prevention and suppression since the 1960s. These efforts have successfully recovered dense even-aged forests over the last five decades. However, high fuel loading and the homogeneous structure have made forests vulnerable to large fires. In recent years, large forest fires have occurred in the eastern coastal region of Korea. Forest fires can significantly influence the economic and social activities of the residents of such affected forest regions. Burned areas may require urgent and long-term restoration strategies, depending on the condition of the affected site. Erosion control is the most important component of an urgent restoration and should be completed before a rainy season to prevent secondary damage such as landslides and sediment runoff in burned areas. Long-term restoration is necessary to renew forest functions such as timber production, water conservation, ecosystem conservation, and recreation for residents. Sound restoration for burned areas is critical for restoring healthy ecological functions of forests and providing economic incentives to local residents.
MYC Deregulation in Primary Human Cancers
Authors: Kalkat Manpreet , De Melo Jason , Hickman Katherine , Lourenco Corey , Redel Cornelia , Resetca Diana , Tamachi Aaliya , Tu William , Penn Linda
Published: May 2017

MYC regulates a complex biological program by transcriptionally activating and repressing its numerous target genes. As such, MYC is a master regulator of many processes, including cell cycle entry, ribosome biogenesis, and metabolism. In cancer, the activity of the MYC transcriptional network is frequently deregulated, contributing to the initiation and maintenance of disease. Deregulation often leads to constitutive overexpression of MYC, which can be achieved through gross genetic abnormalities, including copy number alterations, chromosomal translocations, increased enhancer activity, or through aberrant signal transduction leading to increased MYC transcription or increased MYC mRNA and protein stability. Herein, we summarize the frequency and modes of MYC deregulation and describe both well-established and more recent findings in a variety of cancer types. Notably, these studies have highlighted that with an increased appreciation for the basic mechanisms deregulating MYC in cancer, new therapeutic vulnerabilities can be discovered and potentially exploited for the inhibition of this potent oncogene in cancer.
Occupy the Emotional Stock Exchange, Resisting the Quantifying of Affection in Social Media
Authors: Wittig Rob , Marino Mark
Published: May 2017

By using a carnivalesque strategy, netprovs discussed in this article introduced a disruption innovation into the social advertising market, a new source of value: creative satire. By playing multiple characters or forcibly separating the real person from the avatar they revealed the myth of the consistent online identity. By encouraging users to look on the other side of the mirror they sought to increase awareness of the real “why” these tools exist. Users were introduced to skepticism of online affection and of projected affection in general. Most importantly they promoted an alternative value network: a culture of contentment and satisfaction — satisfaction in play, in creativity. They created a value network of inner rewards, redeemable in the moment, good forever, producing a real community in which players demonstrate with intentionality genuine attention and approval in the improv manner, by saying “yes, and,” by elaborating others’ fictional themes and moments.