bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved synthesis of SV2A targeting radiotracer [11C]UCB-J
Authors: Rokka Johanna , Schlein Eva , Eriksson Jonas
Published: November 2019

Introduction

[11C]UCB-J is a tracer developed for PET (positron emission tomography) that has high affinity towards synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A), a protein believed to participate in the regulation of neurotransmitter release in neurons and endocrine cells. The localisation of SV2A in the synaptic terminals makes it a viable target for in vivo imaging of synaptic density in the brain. Several SV2A targeting compounds have been evaluated as PET tracers, including [11C]UCB-J, with the aim to facilitate studies of synaptic density in neurological diseases.

The original two-step synthesis method failed in our hands to produce sufficient amounts of [11C]UCB-J, but served as an excellent starting point for further optimizations towards a high yielding and simplified one-step method. [11C]Methyl iodide was trapped in a clear THF-water solution containing the trifluoroborate substituted precursor, potassium carbonate and palladium complex. The resulting reaction mixture was heated at 70 °C for 4 min to produce [11C]UCB-J.

Results

After semi-preparative HPLC purification and reformulation in 10% ethanol/phosphate buffered saline, the product was obtained in 39 ± 5% radiochemical yield based on [11C]methyl iodide, corresponding to 1.8 ± 0.5 GBq at EOS. The radiochemical purity was > 99% and the molar activity was 390 ± 180 GBq/μmol at EOS. The product solution contained < 2 ppb palladium.

Conclusions

A robust and high yielding production method has been developed for [11C]UCB-J, suitable for both preclinical and clinical PET applications.
Advances in research on the active constituents and physiological effects of Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Yang Yunli , Zhang Huina , Zuo Jinhui , Gong Xiaoyan , Yi Fan , Zhu Wanshan , Li Li
Published: November 2019

Background

Ganoderma lucidum, a double-walled basidiospore produced by porous basidiomycete fungi, has been used as a traditional medicine for thousands of years. It is considered a valuable Chinese medicine for strengthening body resistance, invigorating the spleen, and replenishing Qi. G. lucidum contains a variety of active ingredients, such as polysaccharides, triterpenoids, nucleosides, sterols, alkaloids, polypeptides, fatty acids, steroids, and inorganic elements, and has anticancer, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotection, hypoglycemic, anti-melanogenesis, anti-aging, and skin barrier-repairing activity.

Conclusions

The review summarizes the traditional usages, distribution, active constituents, structure, and biological effects of G. lucidum, with an aim to offer directions for further research and better usage of G. lucidum as a medicinal raw material.
Using high frequency oligonucleotides-targeting active gene (HFO-TAG) markers for genetic evaluation among genotypes (Cucurbita pepo L. and C. maxima L.)
Authors: Elshafei Adel Ahmed , Alateeq Talal Khaled , Habib Rafik Mostafa , Motawei Mohamed Ibrahim
Published: November 2019

Background

Cucurbita spp. is a main source of crypto-xanthine, zeaxanthin lutein folates, and natural poly-phenolic flavonoid compounds. Collection and conservation of genetic variability are helpful in genetic advancement programs. Twenty-two pumpkin genotypes (21genotypes ofCucurbita pepoL. and one genotype of C.maximaL.) were collected from different regions of Saudi Arabia. Fifteen HFO-TAGhigh frequency oligonucleotide–targeting active gene markers were used to analyze genetic variability among 22 pumpkin genotypes.

Results

A total of 107 alleles were detected by the 15 HFO-TAG markers, an average of 7.133 alleles per primer. Polymorphisms were found in 102 alleles, an average of 6.866 alleles per primer. The PIC values measured from all of the HFO-TAG markers were high, and ranged from 0.8940 to 0.7225, with an average 0.8212 per marker.

Conclusions

The results of the cluster analysis of pumpkin genotypes were separated into seven groups according to the collection region.
Comparison between C-arm cone beam computed tomography and interventional angiography in transarterial chemoembolization of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Diab Ibraheim Ahmed , Hassanein Shaimaa Abdel-hamid , Mohamed Hala Hafez
Published: November 2019

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary hepatic malignancy of adults. One of the established treatment procedures performed worldwide for HCC is transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE). By using conventional angiography in TACE, we can detect and identify the vascular anatomy of the liver through obtaining 2D images. Recently C-arm cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is introduced for obtaining cross-sectional and three-dimensional (3D) images for better visualization of small tumors and their feeding arteries.

Results

The number of detected focal lesions by angiography was 51 compared to 87 focal lesion detected by CBCT; of those, 45 and 77 were active lesions by both procedures respectively. For lesions, less than 1 cm CBCT detected 23 lesions while angiography detected only one lesion. Angiography detected 87 feeding arterial branch while cone beam CT-HA detected 130 branches to the same number of target lesion. Feeder tractability and confidence were better by CBCT.

Conclusion

CBCT is superior to angiography in tumor detectability, detection of lesions less than 1 cm, feeder detection, and feeder traction; however, conventional angiography and DSA are irreplaceable. Thus, combination of CBCT with angiography during TACE produces better results and less complication.
Models and Impacts of Science Research Experiences: A Review of the Literature of CUREs, UREs, and TREs
Authors: Krim Jessica S. , Coté Laleh E. , Schwartz Renée S. , Stone Elisa M. , Cleeves Jessica J. , Barry Kelly J. , Burgess Wilella , Buxner Sanlyn R. , Gerton Jordan M. , Horvath Lawrence , Keller John M. , Lee Soon Chun , Locke Sharon M. , Rebar Bryan M.
Published: November 2019

In efforts to increase scientific literacy and enhance the preparation of learners to pursue careers in science, there are growing opportunities for students and teachers to engage in scientific research experiences, including course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs), undergraduate research experiences (UREs), and teacher research experiences (TREs). Prior literature reviews detail a variety of models, benefits, and challenges and call for the continued examination of program elements and associated impacts. This paper reports a comprehensive review of 307 papers published between 2007 and 2017 that include CURE, URE, and TRE programs, with a special focus on research experiences for K–12 teachers. A research-supported conceptual model of science research experiences was used to develop a coding scheme, including participant demographics, theoretical frameworks, methodology, and reported outcomes. We summarize recent reports on program impacts and identify gaps or misalignments between goals and measured outcomes. The field of biology was the predominant scientific disciplinary focus. Findings suggest a lack of studies explicitly targeting 1) participation and outcomes related to learners from underrepresented populations, 2) a theoretical framework that guides program design and analysis, and, for TREs, 3) methods for translation of research experiences into K–12 instructional practices, and 4) measurement of impact on K–12 instructional practices.
Validation of Seven Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Risk Scores in a Population-Based Cohort: The CoLaus Study
Authors: Kraege Vanessa , Fabecic Janko , Marques-Vidal Pedro , Waeber Gérard , Méan Marie
Published: November 2019

Aim

To assess the validity of seven type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk scores in predicting the 10-year incidence of T2DM in a Swiss population-based study.

Methods

The prospective study included 5131 participants (55% women, age range 35 to 75 years) living in Lausanne, Switzerland. The baseline survey was conducted between 2003 and 2006, and the average follow-up was 10.9 years. Five clinically-based scores (the Balkau, Kahn clinical, Griffin, Swiss Diabetes Association [SDAS], and Finnish Diabetes Risk Score [FINDRISC]) and two clinically and biologically based scores (the Kahn CB and Wilson) were tested.

Results

405 (7.9%) participants developed T2DM. The overall prevalence of participants at high risk ranged from 13.7% for the Griffin score to 43.3% for the Balkau score. The prevalence of participants at high risk among those who developed T2DM ranged from 34.6% for the Griffin score to 82.0% for the Kahn CB score. The Kahn CB score had the highest area under the ROC (value and 95% confidence interval: 0.866 [0.849–0.883]), followed by the FINDRISC (0.818 [0.798–0.838]), while the Griffin score had the lowest (0.740 [0.718–0.762]). Sensitivities and specificities were above 70%, except for the Griffin and the Kahn C scores (for sensitivity) and the Balkau score (for specificity). The numbers needed to screen ranged from 15.5 for the Kahn CB score to 36.7 for the Griffin score.

Conclusion

The Kahn CB and the FINDRISC scores performed the best out of all the scores. The FINDRISC score could be used in an epidemiological setting, while the need for blood sampling for the Kahn CB score restricts its use to a more clinical setting.
Proglucagon-Derived Peptides, Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide, and Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4-Mechanisms of Action in Adipose Tissue
Authors: Beaudry Jacqueline L , Drucker Daniel J
Published: November 2019

Proglucagon-derived peptides (PGDPs) and related gut hormones exemplified by glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) regulate energy disposal and storage through actions on metabolically sensitive organs, including adipose tissue. The actions of glucagon, glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1, GLP-2, GIP, and their rate-limiting enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4, include direct and indirect regulation of islet hormone secretion, food intake, body weight, all contributing to control of white and brown adipose tissue activity. Moreover, agents mimicking actions of these peptides are in use for the therapy of metabolic disorders with disordered energy homeostasis such as diabetes, obesity, and intestinal failure. Here we highlight current concepts and mechanisms for direct and indirect actions of these peptides on adipose tissue depots. The available data highlight the importance of indirect peptide actions for control of adipose tissue biology, consistent with the very low level of endogenous peptide receptor expression within white and brown adipose tissue depots. Finally, we discuss limitations and challenges for the interpretation of available experimental observations, coupled to identification of enduring concepts supported by more robust evidence.
The role of integrins in Drosophila egg chamber morphogenesis
Authors: Lovegrove Holly E. , Bergstralh Dan T. , St Johnston Daniel
Published: November 2019

The Drosophila egg chamber comprises a germline cyst surrounded by a tightly organised epithelial monolayer, the follicular epithelium (FE). Loss of integrin function from the FE disrupts epithelial organisation at egg chamber termini, but the cause of this phenotype remains unclear. Here, we show that the β-integrin Myospheroid (Mys) is only required during early oogenesis when the pre-follicle cells form the FE. Mutation of mys disrupts both the formation of a monolayered epithelium at egg chamber termini and the morphogenesis of the stalk between adjacent egg chambers, which develops through the intercalation of two rows of cells into a single-cell-wide stalk. Secondary epithelia, like the FE, have been proposed to require adhesion to the basement membrane to polarise. However, Mys is not required for pre-follicle cell polarisation, as both follicle and stalk cells localise polarity factors correctly, despite being mispositioned. Instead, loss of integrins causes pre-follicle cells to constrict basally, detach from the basement membrane and become internalised. Thus, integrin function is dispensable for pre-follicle cell polarity but is required to maintain cellular organisation and cell shape during morphogenesis.
Minimal in vivo requirements for developmentally regulated cardiac long intergenic non-coding RNAs
Authors: George Matthew R. , Duan Qiming , Nagle Abigail , Kathiriya Irfan S. , Huang Yu , Rao Kavitha , Haldar Saptarsi M. , Bruneau Benoit G.
Published: November 2019

Long intergenic non-coding RNAs (lincRNAs) have been implicated in gene regulation, but their requirement for development needs empirical interrogation. We computationally identified nine murine lincRNAs that have developmentally regulated transcriptional and epigenomic profiles specific to early heart differentiation. Six of the nine lincRNAs had in vivo expression patterns supporting a potential function in heart development, including a transcript downstream of the cardiac transcription factor Hand2, which we named Handlr (Hand2-associated lincRNA), Rubie and Atcayos. We genetically ablated these six lincRNAs in mouse, which suggested genomic regulatory roles for four of the cohort. However, none of the lincRNA deletions led to severe cardiac phenotypes. Thus, we stressed the hearts of adult Handlr and Atcayos mutant mice by transverse aortic banding and found that absence of these lincRNAs did not affect cardiac hypertrophy or left ventricular function post-stress. Our results support roles for lincRNA transcripts and/or transcription in the regulation of topologically associated genes. However, the individual importance of developmentally specific lincRNAs is yet to be established. Their status as either gene-like entities or epigenetic components of the nucleus should be further considered.
The impact of structured counselling on patient knowledge at a private TB program in Karachi
Authors: Sajjad Sheikh Sulaiman , Sajid Nabila , Fatimi Asad , Maqbool Nawal , Ansari Naila Baig , Amanullah Farhana
Published: November 2019

Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the impact of structured counselling on the knowledge of patients and families attending the Tuberculosis (TB) clinic at the Indus Hospital, Karachi.

Methods: This was a case control study conducted from 17th December 2018 to 28th December 2018 at The Indus Hospital, Karachi. We evaluated the baseline knowledge regarding TB in 60 patients and families, 30 of whom had undergone at least one counselling session at the TB clinic. We then compared the scores achieved by each group in three main categories of tuberculosis: disease, treatment and prevention.

Results: The average scores in all three categories of TB knowledge were higher in counselled participants compared to non-counselled participants.

Conclusion: We found that structured counselling resulted in improved patient knowledge and clarified common misconceptions about TB which has been shown to result in improved patient outcomes. Effective counselling is an easy to implement strategy in a low resource setting. A trained psychosocial counsellor is essential for every TB program in Pakistan.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.ICON-Suppl.1713

How to cite this:Sajjad SS, Sajid N, Fatimi A, Maqbool N, Baig-Ansari N, Amanullah F. The impact of structured counselling on patient knowledge at a private TB program in Karachi. Pak J Med Sci. Special Supplement ICON 2020. 2020;36(1):S49-S54. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.ICON-Suppl.1713

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Physical therapy modalities for treating fibromyalgia
Authors: Araújo Fernanda Mendonça , DeSantana Josimari Melo
Published: November 2019

Fibromyalgia is a syndrome characterized by generalized chronic musculoskeletal pain, hyperalgesia in specific points, and psychosomatic symptoms, such as fatigue, sleep disturbances (waking unrefreshed), anxiety, depression, cognitive dysfunction, headache, and gastrointestinal disorders. Investigations with non-pharmacological therapies, focused on physical therapy, have increased in recent years as alternative therapies for the treatment of fibromyalgia. The purpose of this review is to summarize the main physical therapy modalities used to treat fibromyalgia.
School of Creative Culture: Strategic Planning of Profile Training
Authors: Bychkov Anatoliy
Published: November 2019

Education of creation is the leading direction of modernization of specialized training at the present stage of development of Russian education. Formation of skills of creative innovative work of students is an indicative basis for the actions of teachers of the profi le school. Creative ways of thinking and action can and should become the main personal value of young people in pre-profi le and profi le training.
The System of Work with Gifted Children on the Basis of the University: Experience of Realization and Prospect of Development
Authors: Pozdnyakova E. , Fomina A. , Mozharov M. , Non' N.
Published: November 2019

The identifi cation and development of gifted children’s abilities and talents is one of the priorities of the modernization of Russian education. The integration of universities with educational organizations of diff erent types (schools, lyceums, gymnasiums) becomes particularly relevant in working with gifted children who are prone to creative, intellectual and research activities. The structural and content model of the organization of work with gifted children on the basis of the University includes the stages of diagnosis, training and analysis of the results, and the content-activity component is revealed in the following areas: interaction with children; interaction with parents; interaction with experts; interaction with educational organizations. The complex of actions which are result of introduction and functioning of this model is described. As one of the priorities for the further development of the system of work with gifted children on the basis of the University, the creation of the project of the school of intellectual development and entrepreneurship for children and adolescents of grades 1-11, including several educational sites: children’s club of intellectual development, school — laboratory, business school, STEM — Academy.
Technopark of High Technologies as a Coordinator of the Cluster Economy Development of Khanty-Mansiisk Autonomous District
Authors: Пастухов Владимир , Pastuhov Vladimir
Published: November 2019

The author considers the basics of clustering a foreign economy, the priorities of the cluster policy of the Russian Federation. The activity of the Center for Cluster Development “Technopark of High Technologies” as a coordinating center for the development of a cluster economy of Khanty-Mansiisk Autonomous District is analyzed. The Center adheres to the unshakable foundations of cluster policy, based on the organization of interaction between government bodies and local self-government, business structures and scientific and educational institutions in order to increase the innovativeness of production and the service sector of the district clusters. The role of the Center for Cluster Development in interacting with other district clusters and partners is estimated. The author believes that mutual cooperation will help to find optimal ways for the further effective development of clusters of Khanty-Mansiisk Autonomous District in the long term. The introduction of innovative technologies in the district clusters (oil and gas and oil and gas processing clusters, forestry and mining, medical, tourist and recreational clusters, the Technics and Technologies for the North cluster, and the scientific and innovative cluster) will ensure a synergistic effect of the economic activity of a wide range of regional territorial enterprises.
Stress Testing in the System of Autogenous Crisis
Authors: Девяткин Олег , Dyevyatkin Olyeg
Published: November 2019

The paper presents a conceptually new direction in ensuring the long-term sustainable development of organizations — an autogenic crisis and a mechanism for its preparation — stress testing. The thesis that the crisis is a manifestation of the third law of Hegelian dialectics — “the negation of negation” is advanced. It is concluded that the crisis is a violation of the previous equilibrium (stability) and at the same time, the potential for transition to a new equilibrium (new stability), i.e. a crisis state serves as a way of moving an object from a previous state, through disintegration and conflict, to a new state. To remove contradictions and imbalances, the author proposes to initiate a managed (autogenic) crisis by the top leaders of the organization. Autogenic crisis allows you to update, reboot the system and move to a new level of stability. To prepare for an autogenic crisis and identify underlying problems in the early stages, the author proposes to use a diagnostic tool such as stress testing in the framework of macro- and microprudential regulation. The article outlines ways to solve the tasks and determines the directions for the further development of stress testing and prudential policy in industry.
Sartre leitor de Husserl: A Intencionalidade, uma ideia fundamental
Authors: Silva Guilherme Cerdeira Lelis
Published: November 2019

A presente resenha tem como intuito apresentar o brevíssimo texto Uma ideia fundamental da fenomenologia de Husserl: a Intencionalidade, um dos primeiros escritos de Jean-Paul Sartre. Longe de somente expor seus argumentos e as articulações do textos, pretendemos pensar o ensaio sartreano em seu sentido histórico e, ao mesmo tempo, em seu contexto central dentro do pensamento sartreano, com o intuito de evidenciar a importância do conceito husserliano de Intencionalidade na filosofia de Sartre, e como este representa o ponto de partida da fenomenologia do autor francês.
Practical behavioural first aid for feline patients
Authors: Hargrave Claire
Published: November 2019

This article forms part of a series intended to encourage veterinary practices to incorporate first aid advice on emotional welfare and behavioural support, for the entire species range seen within the practice, into daily practice routine. Previous articles in this series have covered why this service should be integral to practice activity and provided suggestions regarding behavioural first aid advice that could be given to the owners of canine patients. This article concentrates on behavioural first aid advice that will benefit the, often under-supported, welfare needs of feline patients and their owners.
Habermas Hegel Kant-kritikájáról
Authors: Forczek Ákos
Published: November 2019

Írásomban egyetlen Habermas-szövegre, a "Találóak-e Hegel Kanttal szembeni ellenvetései a diszkurzusetikára is?" című tanulmányra koncentrálva amellett érvelek, hogy Hegel Kant-kritikájának habermasi interpretációja félrevezető; Hegel a maga módján hathatósabban pártfogolja a kanti gyakorlati észt, mint Habermas. Azt állítom továbbá, hogy azokat a lényegi meglátásokat, amelyek Habermast a kanti kötelességelmélet korrekciójára ösztönzik, valójában Kant is osztja. Tudja, hogy a Sollen rá van utalva (Hegel kifejezéskincsével élve) az objektív szellem aktuális szerveződési formáira, rendezőelveire; és tudja, hogy a Sollen a normamegalapozási eljárás során nem maradhat monologikus. Azaz úgy vélem, hogy Kant politikai etikájának diszkurzuselméleti meghaladása valamivel kisebb lépés, mint ahogyan azt a ’80-as években Habermas gondolja.
Megélni az olvasást
Authors: Fekete Kristóf
Published: November 2019

Recenzió Weiss János: Lukács György és tanítványai című könyvéről.
Weiss János: Lukács György és tanítványai. Forradalom – apológia – kritika – üldözés. Budapest, Áron, 2018.
New records of Heterocera (Insecta, Lepidoptera) from the Republic of Khakassia and South of Krasnoyarsk region (South Siberia, Russia)
Authors: Maksimov R. E. , Ivanov M. A. , Knyazev S. A.
Published: November 2019

Here we presented the new data and new records of Lepidoptera (Crambidae, Cossidae, Lasiocampidae, Drepanidae, Geometridae, Notodontidae, Noctuidae s.l., Arctiidae) from the Khakassia Republic and the South of Krasnoyarsk region. A total of 147 species are reported for the fauna of both regions for the first time, based on the literature records and personal data collected in 1999−2019. We collected the moths in Khakassia and South of Krasnoyarsk region in more than 40 localities, from the steppe zone to the alpine area of the West Sayan, the Kuznetsky Alatau, and foothills of East Sayan Mountains. Specimens were collected in the daylight by standard methods using butterfly net and in the night, using mercury lamp Sylvania (250W) and inverter generator (1000W). All collected materials preserved in private collections of R.E. Maksimov in Abakan (RMA), M.A. Ivanov in Krasnoyarsk (MIK), and in private collection of S.A. Knyazev in Omsk (SKO). The presence of several species have been considered doubtful before our study. We suggested that the regional list of Heterocera of Khakassia and South of the Krasnoyarsk region should be considerably revised. The great share of the specimens mentioned in this article is presented on the websiite “The Nature of South Siberia” (www.ermak24.com/animalia-insecta.html/).
Yasujiro Ozu, die japanische Kulturwelt und der westliche Film
Authors: Becker Andreas
Published: November 2019

Die Filme des japanischen Regisseurs Yasujiro Ozu (1903-1963) spielen in zwei Welten: der globalen Welt des Films und der japanischen Kulturwelt. Es sind vor allem seine späten Arbeiten, in denen der Regisseur westliche (Film-)Konzepte von der Kultur Japans her versteht und neu ordnet. Andreas Becker nähert sich dem Werk Ozus komparativ und rückt die Resonanzen, Prämissen und Interdependenzen kultureller wie bildkultureller Art in den Vordergrund: Schrift, Montagetechnik, die ›geliehene Landschaft‹ sowie filmische Raumkonzepte und Narrative. Dabei werden auch Ozus Arbeitsdrehbücher und seine handschriftlichen Anmerkungen mit in die Analyse einbezogen.
Walachei
Authors: Schlupp Ana-Maria
Published: November 2019

Für viele ist die Walachei ein böhmisches Dorf. Man weiß im besten Fall, dass sie jenseits der Puszta liegt und dass es dort zugeht wie in einer polnischen Wirtschaft. Für die meisten aber ist sie ein sprichwörtliches Niemandsland. Ana-Maria Schlupp bietet eine »Archäologie« dieser Redewendung im Kontext unserer Sprache. Sie zeigt unter besonderer Berücksichtigung literarischer Walacheibilder auf, welchen Wandel die Region im Süden Rumäniens in der Imagination von der Antike über den locus terribilis der »wilden Walachei« bis zur heutigen Redewendung als Synonym zum Ende der Welt durchlaufen hat. Durch die Rekonstruktion als Imaginationsgeschichte wird deutlich, wie es zur topischen Verwendung eines Begriffs kommt und welche Rolle Literatur dabei spielt.
Die Emanzipation des hybriden Selbst
Authors: Baumann Isabell Eva
Published: November 2019

Mit Blick auf die Konstruktion nationaler Identitäten multilingualer Gemeinschaften kommt dem Großherzogtum Luxemburg durch seine spezifische Lage an der Nahtstelle zwischen germanischem und romanischem Kulturraum eine besondere Rolle zu. Isabell Baumann rekonstruiert den Emanzipationsprozess Luxemburgs von der Staatsgründung über die beiden Weltkriege bis zum Jahr 1984. Ein besonderes Augenmerk wird dabei auf die Konstruktionsmechanismen von Identität und ihre literarische Diskursivierung im Horizont einer sich herausbildenden Nationalliteratur gelegt.
População urbana exposta aos riscos de deslizamentos, inundações e enxurradas no Brasil
Authors: Saito Silvia Midori , Dias Mariane Carvalho de Assis , Alvalá Regina Célia dos Santos , Stenner Claudio , Franco Cayo , Ribeiro Julia Vicente Martins , Souza Pilar Amadeu de , Santana Rodrigo Amorim Souza de Moraes
Published: November 2019

O conhecimento sobre a população urbana expostos ao risco de desastres é imprescindível para o planejamento de ações de prevenção e resposta. O objetivo do presente trabalho é analisar as condições de exposição de grupos populacionais  em áreas de risco de desastres em 479 municípios brasileiros. O procedimento metodológico baseou-se na associação de dados censitários e de áreas de risco de deslizamentos, enxurradas e inundações. A base de dados foi constituída de dados sociodemográficos e ambientais, que permitiu caracterizar os moradores e as moradias em áreas de risco. Os resultados evidenciaram que o maior total de pessoas expostas estava na região Sudeste do país, embora, em termos proporcionais, na região Nordeste 15 a cada 100 pessoas viviam em áreas de risco. Estes dados permitem selecionar áreas que demandam ações prioritárias, auxiliando na implementação de políticas públicas regionais que promovam a redução de danos humanos no país.
CHARACTERISTICS OF BRAIN BIOELECTRICAL ACTIVITY DURING FEEDBACK TRAINING
Authors: Illarionova A , Kapilevich L
Published: November 2019

Aim. The article deals with studying the effect of feedback training on the characteristics of brain bioelectrical activity. Materials and methods. 60 female non-athletes aged 18–20 years participated in the study. Sports training for improving the vestibular analyzer and proprioceptive sensitivity was conducted as well as feedback training with the data for ‘the projected center of mass position’ and ‘applied efforts’ parameters. EEG recording was conducted during the Romberg and Biryuk tests before and after the training course. Results. The specificity of the physiological mechanisms of various types of training, aimed at improving the vestibular analyzer and proprioceptive sensitivity, is reflected in the formation of special patterns of bioelectric activity of the cerebral cortex. Traditional training methods have the least effect on EEG characteristics, while biofeedback training is characterized by a more pronounced effect. Along with similar effects (the increased slow activity of theta and delta range, mainly in the frontal area of the cortex, and activation of high-frequency beta activity in the occipital leads), differences are also recorded. If training with the “projected center of mass position” parameter used as a BFB channel was accompanied by suppression of alpha-range activity, then training with the “applied efforts” parameter used as a BFB channel, on the contrary, increased the alpha activity in the occipital cortex. Conclusion. The parameters of bioelectrical activity of the cerebral cortex are informative when conducting biofeedback training and can be used to monitor its effectiveness and assess the physiological aspects.
FERMENTED MILK PRODUCT FOR SPORTS NUTRITION
Authors: Zakharova L , Pushmina I , Pushmina V , Kudriavtsev M , Sitnichuk S
Published: November 2019

Aim. The article deals with the study of technological approaches to the quality and deve­lopment of a functional fermented milk product for specialized sports nutrition. Materials and methods. Skim milk, whey protein concentrate, and starter cultures (DELVO-YOG®, DIRECT SET) were used for the study. Bifidobacteria (Bifidobacterium animalis) were introduced as a probiotic. Creatine monohydrate (Creatine Powder C4N9O2N3, USA) was used as an element of sports nutrition. The fruit fillers (“Green Apple”, “Blueberry”, produced by “Zuegg”, Italy) were also introduced into the product. The research was conducted using standard and original methods, mathematical modeling, and statistical processing of experimental data. Results. The obtained data on the physiological effects of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and nutrients, enhancing the adaptive capacity to the physical and neuro-emotional stress, indicate the need for their use in the technology of specialized food for athletes. Technological approaches to the quality of a functional fermented milk product for sports nutrition were studied. Based on a combination of milk, whey protein concentrate, starter cultures, and bifidobacteria, a fermented milk product was designed. This product is intended for athletes during training, competition, and recovery. The introduction of creatine monohydrate into the milk base allowed enriching the product with amino acids. Conclusion. This study is of great interest in terms of getting yogurts with the textural properties similar to the traditional ones but with the use of functional ingredients. The study also contributes to the development of food technologies and products for sports nutrition.
HEALTH IMPROVEMENT ACTIVITIES IN PRESCHOOL DAILY ROUTINE
Authors: Vedernikova O , Kleschenkova N , Ushakov A , Perelman E
Published: November 2019

Aim. The aim of this article is to develop and justify a complex of physical education and health improvement activities, including swimming, for 4–5-year-old children. Materials and methods. The study was conducted on the premises of “A” and “B” preschool establishments in Chelyabinsk. 44 boys and girls aged 4–5 years participated in the study. Children from kindergarten “A” were involved in swimming with a complex of additional health improvement activities, including sauna, phytotherapy, and cold exposure training. During the study, the following methods have been used: the analysis and synthesis of special and methodical literature, pedagogical observations, pedagogical experiment, control tests for swimming skills assessment, calculation methods, mathematical statistics. Results. The application of the complex proposed (sauna, cold exposure training, phytotherapy) in the experimental group decreased significantly children’s disease frequency by the end of the course. This proves a positive influence of the complex proposed on immunity in 4–5-year-old children in preschool establishments. Conclusion. Methodical peculiarities of a health improvement program influenced the level of children’s swimming skills. The analysis of disease frequency during a year allows us to suppose that the complex proposed influenced positively body resistance to unfavorable environmental conditions
MOOCs as environments for learning spoken academic vocabulary
Authors: Hendry Clinton , Ruivivar June
Published: November 2019

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are easily accessible for anyone in
the world to study any given subject, often for free. However, there is some
question as to whether they are comparable to their real-world counterparts.
The Academic Spoken Word List (ASWL) created by Dang, Coxhead, and Webb
(2017) was designed to create a word list that is more representative of
spoken academic English. To contrast the real-world academic context to
MOOCs, we created a MOOC academic corpus and compared it with the Michigan
Corpus of Academic Spoken English (MICASE). Last, we used both to test the
effectiveness of the ASWL. Overall, we found that the ASWL had similar
coverage in both the MOOC and MICASE corpora but interestingly saw slightly
more coverage in the MICASE dialogic sections. We believe future research
should address the slight discrepancy between dialogic and non-dialogic
academic situations.
Students’ perceptions about the use of digital badges in an online
English terminology course: a three-year study
Authors: Iwata Jun , Wang Shudong , Clayton John
Published: November 2019

In e-learning environments, ‘digital badges’, often referred to as
‘micro-credentials’, are expected to function not only as valid indicators
of learner’s accomplishments but also as useful tools for motivational and
reward purposes (Clayton, 2012). In this study, we investigated students’
perceptions about the use of digital badges in an online terminology course
we had developed (Iwata et al., 2017). We hypothesized that the badges which
students earned for the course would not only function as an indicator of
their achievement but also help enhance their learner autonomy. Through a
three-year survey on students’ perceptions of their course of study in this
course, we found that a large majority of students (88.3%) were satisfied
with their study through this course and that most of the students (69.7%)
found the use of badges helpful in confirming their course achievements. The
results also showed that two-thirds of them (64.3%) found that earning
badges helped motivate them toward further autonomous study. These findings
indicate that the use of digital badges can provide students with
opportunities to enhance their learner autonomy.
Collaborative learning through story envisioning in virtual reality
Authors: Mirzaei Maryam Sadat , Zhang Qiang , Meshgi Kourosh , Nishida Toyoaki
Published: November 2019

We developed a story creation platform that allows for collaborative content creation in a 3D environment by utilizing avatars, animations, objects, and backgrounds. Our story envisioning platform provides a shared virtual space that promotes collaborative interaction for story construction, involving a high degree of learner input and control. It allows the L2 learners to perform as actors and directors to create the story and supports offline or online collaboration (online chatting). Using state-of-the-art technologies, the system creates 3D stories from text to be presented in virtual reality. The learner can choose premade assets and input the story script for conversion into story elements and timelines. Experiments with 35 intermediate learners of English on the usability of the system and user engagement confirmed the system’s effectiveness to promote learner collaboration, peer support, negotiation, opinion exchange, and critical thinking. Learners found the system to be a powerful tool to visualize their thoughts, and revise/expand their stories, according to questionnaire results. This system brings an interesting and intense language practice that encourages learners to actively participate in the learning process through collaboration.
The use of Quizlet to enhance vocabulary in the English language
classroom
Authors: Montaner-Villalba Salvador
Published: November 2019

This research focuses on vocabulary acquisition in foreign language
learning. The latest trends of teaching as well as the huge advance of
technology allow teachers to utilize online and mobile applications through
diverse apps. This quasi-experimental design research investigated Quizlet,
in its mobile version, on vocabulary acquisition in English as a Foreign
Language (EFL). One group of A2 (according to the Common European Framework
of Reference for Languages) EFL learners at a state secondary school in
Valencia (Spain) (N=24) participated in this study. Learners from the
Treatment group (henceforth, T-group) underwent a pre-test and a post-test
to assess their acquisition of the assigned vocabulary lessons which were
extracted from the course syllabus. After utilizing Quizlet for vocabulary
learning for the academic year 2017-2018, the results proved that these
learners improved significantly their level of EFL vocabulary at the
post-test. Accordingly, this research recommends utilizing Quizlet in its
mobile version at secondary education.
Using LARA for language learning: a pilot study for Icelandic
Authors: Bédi Branislav , Chua Cathy , Habibi Hanieh , Martinez-Lopez Ruth , Rayner Manny
Published: November 2019

This paper presents a brief overview of LARA (Learning And Reading
Assistant), an open source online tool that has been under development since
summer 2018. LARA currently contains a corpus of about 25 texts in ten
languages and a crowdsourcing model used to expand the corpus. The central
goal is to provide support for improving second language (L2) reading
comprehension. The focus here is on the development of Icelandic content and
its use during pilot testing amongst adult L2 learners of Icelandic.
Preliminary feedback from users, while mostly positive, contained
suggestions on how the tool might be improved.
"Let's date!" A 360-degree video application to support foreign language
learning
Authors: Berns Anke , Ruiz-Rube Iván , Mota José Miguel , Dodero Juan Manuel , Castro Edson , Ryynanen Oona , Werner Lissy
Published: November 2019

New technologies are changing the way of learning foreign languages.
However, one of the main challenges for software developers and mobile
assisted language learning designers remains the creation of learning
environments for students’ language immersion in and outside the classroom.
This paper describes the design and evaluation of a VR-based mobile app
called Let’s date!. The app enables Common European Framework of Reference
for languages (CEFR) A1 level German language learners to interact with an
immersive environment and to practise several language skills. The results
have proven that the use of 360° videos based on realistic situations and
combined with a conversational agent is suitable to reinforce students’
foreign language competencies.
Learners as teachers? An evaluation of peer interaction and correction in
a German Language MOOC
Authors: Clifford Elisabeth , Pleines Christine , Thomas Hilary , Winchester Susanne
Published: November 2019

The benefits of peer interaction, support, and feedback in Massive Open
Online Courses (MOOCs) for Languages (LMOOCs) are well documented, but there
has been little research on peer correction in MOOCs. Classroom-based
research suggests that peer corrective feedback has significant potential
for language development, but it also identifies a number of conditions for
the feedback to be effective, notably a ‘positive classroom atmosphere’;
this may be hard to achieve on a MOOC, with its diverse cohort and large
number of participants. Our mixed-method study reveals participants’
conflicting expectations of learning from their peers on the one hand and
actively contributing to their peers’ learning on the other. Most
participants believe they are not competent to provide helpful corrective
feedback, and some think that the expectation to correct creates unwanted
pressure and hinders communication. This paper encourages MOOC educators to
address the challenge of creating a culture of learning through meaningful
interaction whilst also finding ways of exploiting the opportunities offered
by constructive peer correction.
Affordances for cultural adjustment of international students learning
Chinese as a second language in a mobile-assisted learning
environment
Authors: Dong Shixin , Cheng Li , Dong Liu , Wu Guanzhen
Published: November 2019

The purpose of the study is to understand the mobile-assisted learning
situation of international students in China from the perspective of
cultural adjustment and explore the affordances for cultural adjustment of
these students in this specific situation. This study investigated eight
students learning Chinese as a second language in a university in Beijing
and using mainly WeChat, a mobile technology. Qualitative methods were
employed in this study. The researchers followed the students for three
months (from September to November 2018) and collected all the online
messages in the WeChat online group. Moreover, eight one-hour in-depth
interviews with participants were conducted. Results showed that the
characteristics of the international students’ cultural adjustment in the
mobile learning environment are universality, consciousness and
unconsciousness, and interactivity. In addition, three affordances were
identified: resources on Chinese linguistic and cultural knowledge, ways to
obtain social support, and ways to relieve stress. Finally, two suggestions
for international students are proposed.
Interference of anti-streptavidin antibodies in immunoassays: a very rare phenomenon or a more common finding?
Authors: Verougstraete Nick , Berth Mario , Vaneechoutte Mario , Delanghe Joris , Callewaert Nico
Published: November 2019

Background

Anti-streptavidin antibodies (ASA) may cause analytical interference on certain immunoassay platforms. Streptavidin is purified from the non-pathogenic Streptomyces avidinii soil bacterium. In contrast to interference with biotin, ASA interference is supposed to be much rarer. In-depth studies on this topic are lacking. Therefore, we carried out an analysis toward the prevalence and the possible underlying cause of this interference.

Methods

Anti-streptavidin (AS)-immunoglobulin G (IgG) and AS-IgM concentrations were determined on multiple samples from two patients with ASA interference and on 500 random samples. On a subset of 100 samples, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) was measured on a Cobas analyzer before and after performing a neutralization protocol which removes ASA. The relationship between the ratio of TSH after neutralization/TSH before neutralization and the ASA concentration was evaluated. Subsequently, an extract of S. avidinii colonies was analyzed using sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and immunoblotting.

Results

A positive correlation between AS-IgM concentrations and TSH ratio was obtained. Eight samples out of 500 exceeded the calculated AS-IgM cut-off value. In comparison to the AS-IgM concentrations in the population, titers from the two described cases clearly stood out. The isolated cases represent the end of a broader spectrum as there is a continuum of AS-IgM reactivity in the general population. We could not observe any differences in the immunoblot patterns between the cases and controls, which may indicate the general presence of ASA in the population.

Conclusions

Interference due to ASA is more prevalent than initially thought and is caused by IgM antibodies.
Brexit and its Impact on the Pound in the Foreign Exchange Market
Authors: Pilbeam Keith
Published: November 2019

In this paper we outline the impact and likely future impact of Brexit on the pound. We argue that Brexit implies a significant depreciation of the pound and the degree of depreciation required is heavily linked to whether there will be a soft or hard Brexit. We find that the pound has had broadly similar depreciations to date against both the dollar and the euro. Brexit has considerably raised UK economic policy uncertainty and this, in turn, has at times led to an significant increase in future implied volatility of the pound. While there is an overall link between the state of the ongoing Brexit negotiations with the European Union and movements in the pound in the foreign exchange market, the link is not especially strong unless the perception that the negotiations are going badly has exceeded 60%.
How Britain Will React to a WTO-Based Brexit
Authors: Minford Patrick
Published: November 2019

The government of Boris Johnson has restarted negotiations with the EU over the proposed Withdrawal Agreement. If these fail the UK will exit without an agreed trade deal. This exit would not however be ‘lawless’, with unknown and chaotic consequences. Trade is governed in both the UK and the EU by WTO rules and these are highly prescriptive, preventing both sides from imposing border hold-ups and imposing arbitrary new standards on exporters whose products have long satisfied existing standards. Chaos produced by such state behaviour would be illegal and so is highly unlikely. Consequently such a ‘no deal’ would lead to the speediest Brexit, and avoid any UK financial contribution. It would also allow the rapid conclusion of FTAs with the US and other major trading partners, driving UK prices to world levels rapidly. Without an EU FTA tariffs would have to be imposed by both sides; their incidence would fall on EU traders who would have to match the world prices now prevailing in the UK market. Technically therefore no deal is the UK’s best option while it is damaging to the EU. However undoubtedly the UK would welcome a deal for reasons of good neighbourliness.