bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-Regulation of Middle School Students With Learning Disabilities During a Complex Project-Based Science Activity
Authors: Berkeley Sheri , Larsen Anna , Colburn Amanda , Yin Robert
Published: June 2019

Self-regulation is widely considered important for the academic success of students. Yet, there is limited research about how students self-regulate during complex, long-term learning tasks, such as the project-based learning activities that commonly occur as part of science classroom instruction. There is also less known about how atypical learners, including students with learning disabilities (LD), self-regulate academic tasks. The current multiple case study explores these gaps in the research base through an investigation of how middle school students with language-based LDs self-regulated their learning during a complex, science-based project—creation of computerized serious educational games (SEG) about renewable energy sources. Findings from the current study suggest that there is a relationship between attributions that students with LD make for their performance and their self-efficacy for learning, but only under specific conditions. The role of this relationship seems to diminish when a student poorly calibrates perception of ability relative to actual performance and when a student perceives the cost of effort to outweigh the benefit.
Nuclei Release Methods Comparison for Fresh Leaves of Rice (Oryza sativa) for Efficient High Throughput Flow Cytometry Ploidy Studies
Authors: Hooghvorst Isidre , Serrat Xavier , Nogués Salvador
Published: June 2019

Flow cytometry trituration methods and the efficiency of isolation buffer solutions are compared in this study for extraction of nuclei from fresh leaves of rice. The razor blade sample trituration procedure has been widely used to release nuclei from tissues in many plant species, and combined with different isolation buffers for low throughput analysis. In contrast, the bead beating trituration method has rarely been used for DNA ploidy determination, despite it being proposed as a less tedious alternative procedure to prepare nuclear suspensions. In this study, bead beating was assessed and compared with the traditional chopping procedure. Each trituration method was combined with one of three nuclear isolation buffers (i.e. Hanson’s, Otto’s and LB01 buffer). Bead beating was applied for the first time using all three of the buffers, resulting in a rapid and effective procedure for ploidy determination in fresh rice leaves. In addition, bead beating saved, while reducing the exposure of the user to harmful substances. The best results were obtained when Hanson’s nuclear isolation buffer was combined with the bead beating trituration method.
Делиберация и агрегация в научной коммуникации
Authors: Касавин Илья Теодорович ,   Lobachevsky State University Press
Published: June 2019

Статья представляет критический комментарий на доклад, предоставленный Виталием Пронских в Университете Лобачевского в Нижнем Новгороде. Его описание и анализ протомеганауки с опорой на историческое ситуационное тематическое исследование Фермилаб (США) в последней трети ХХ века приводят к нескольким интересным выводам. Они требуют переосмысления картины меганаучных проектов в рамках рыночной экономики и неолиберальной идеологии. Кроме того, Пронских фокусируется на структуре научной коммуникации, которая показывает свою ключевую роль в определении особенностей этих проектов. Критика его позиции направлена на необходимость спецификации коммуникативных актов в ядре группы международной коллаборации. Коллективные эпистемологи, например, рассматривают научную делиберацию среди специалистов высокого статуса как особое агрегирование, позволяющее сохранить теоретические позиции без использования отношения groupthink. Кроме того, структура сотрудничества обычно включает политические интересы и конфликты статусных экспертов до такой степени, что они приобретают главное значение и уделяют лишь второстепенную роль исследовательским интересам. И меганаучные проекты превращаются в социотехнические ансамбли (Wiebe Bijker), в которых нельзя обнаружить никаких строгих границ между техническим, научным и социальным.
Реформа метафизики Р. Дж. Коллингвуда в контексте вопроса о возможной альтернативе коперниканской революции Канта
Authors: Столярова Ольга Евгеньевна ,   Lobachevsky State University Press
Published: June 2019

В статье рассматривается «реформа метафизики» Р. Дж. Коллингвуда в контексте исторического развития посткантовской критической философии и науки. Задается вопрос о том, что может означать «возврат к докантовским способам мышления» (А.Н. Уайтхед), или «онтологический поворот» современной философии, при условии необратимости исторического развития мысли. Показано, что кантовская коперниканская революция заключалась в том, чтобы закрыть вопрос о внешних по отношению к знанию источниках знания. В результате кантовского переворота эпистемология присваивает генетический метод онтологии, переадресовав вопрос об условиях возможности опыта (научного знания) трансцендентальной субъективности. Коллингвуд продолжает линию критической философии Канта, выдвигая проект «метафизики без онтологии», которая должна иметь дело со структурой нашей мысли о бытии, но не с самим по себе бытием. Однако Коллингвуд находится в иной исторической ситуации, на значительном удалении от Канта. Прибегая к кантовскому методу регрессивного (или генетического) эпистемологического обоснования опыта, Коллингвуд ставит своей целью раскрыть «абсолютные допущения» относительно мира-вцелом (исходные метафизические предпо- сылки), которые делают исторически новый опыт возможным. Историческое банкротство основополагающей идеи Канта относительно того, что существует только один универсальный способ организации нашего опыта, принадлежащий вневременной трансцендентальной субъективности, возвращает проблему обоснования знания на онтологический уровень, в чем и состоит действительная альтернатива коперниканской революции Канта. Это обсуждается на примере концепции Кол- лингвуда, чей проект «метафизики без онтологии» обнаруживает зависимость от определенных онтологических предпосылок, которые могут быть поняты в качестве «онтологии без метафизики».
Соизмеримость, бикультурность и доместикация: эпистемологические основания и следствия в экспериментальной антропологии
Authors: Доронин Дмитрий Юрьевич ,   Lobachevsky State University Press
Published: June 2019

Данная статья посвящена описанию взаимосвязи трех понятий – соизмеримости, бикультурности и доместикации; предлагается рассмотреть их эпистемологический контекст в социокультурной антропологии. Вся классическая нерелятивистская антропология была построена на идее соизмеримости; несовместимость как проблема здесь не существовала: «дикая» и «цивилизованная» культуры по умолчанию считались соизмеримыми. Такую «соизмеримость по умолчанию», которая находится до или вне релятивистской и интерпретационной антропологии, автор для удобства называет «соизмеримость-1». Можно указать и на другое – герменевтическое понимание соизмеримости, развивающееся в «пострелятивистскую эру» антропологии; я называю это «соизмеримость-2». Это более рефлексивная и критическая форма, которая предполагает, что понимание достигается не на основе точного знания / перевода представителя чужой культуры, а в виде прерывистого процесса продолжения «долгого разговора», который меняет собеседников. Этот «долгий разговор» может быть исследован, например, как последовательность случаев коммуникативных ситуаций. Вопрос соизмеримости в интерпретативной антропологии и понимающей социологии заключается, в частности, в изучении эпистемически неясных, «мутных» ситуаций общения между представителями разных культур. Это ситуации, в которых неопределенность, неоднозначность, аномалии, иллюзии и ошибки в понимании воспринимаются как эпистемологически конструктивные, а не как негативные явления. К таким ситуациям применимо понятие эпистемической мути (М. Тауссиг), характеризующее состояния профессиональной деформации сознания антропологов, входящих в чуждую им культуру (состояние бикультурности). Доместикация рассматривается какодин из механизмов достижения бикультурности.
Competências e habilidades para empregabilidade dos egressos de administração: a experiência de uma universidade gaúcha
Authors: Maciel Eliana Ribas , Grando Ana Claudia Bueno , Turcato Jessica Casali , Ribas Marinês , Kelm Martinho Luís
Published: June 2019

Este estudo tem como premissa a relevância da formação de bacharéis do curso de Administração com as competências requeridas pelas organizações e as habilidades para atuar em diferentes modelos e níveis organizacionais. Possui como objetivo apresentar as percepções dos egressos de uma universidade comunitária localizada na região Noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul e dos empregadores desses egressos a partir das oito competências citadas nas diretrizes curriculares do MEC. Estas oito competências são tipificadas por Fonseca et al. (2007) como transversais e técnicas, as competências transversais são àquelas que têm foco no desenvolvimento individual e social, e as competências técnicas enfatizam o desenvolvimento profissional. Caracteriza-se como uma pesquisa aplicada, exploratória, descritiva e qualitativa. Do ponto de vista dos procedimentos técnicos é uma pesquisa de cunho bibliográfico, documental e estudo de caso, que culminou com a análise de conteúdo. Os resultados evidenciam que, na percepção das amostras, o egresso tem dificuldade em relacionar a teoria com a prática e carecem de experiência gerencial, entretanto, é apontada como fatores positivos: a aprendizagem nas diferentes áreas organizacionais, a participação em eventos, à realização de estágios e a formação em uma universidade bem-conceituada pelo MEC. Desta forma, o desafio da empregabilidade dos egressos está em integrar o conhecimento teórico de sala de aula, a habilidade técnica e um comportamento adequado ao profissional da Administração que as organizações requerem.
Gerenciamento de riscos em projetos de consultoria
Authors: Ribeiro Diego Pereira , Oliveira Ualison Rébula
Published: June 2019

Tendo em vista que quaisquer organizações não estão livres de cometerem falhas e correr riscos, o presente trabalho traz a integração de alguns métodos de Gerenciamento de Risco que foram capazes de identificar, analisar e avaliar riscos dentro dos projetos de uma empresa de prestação de serviços. Apesar do gerenciamento de risco ser um processo capaz de ser empregado em diversos tipos de organizações e situações, muitas organizações não tem o conhecimento de suas técnicas. Assim, a presente pesquisa tem como objetivo identificar as falhas capazes de trazer consequências negativas para os projetos da empresa, além de identificar as falhas nos projetos, a pesquisa também identificou as causas de cada uma das falhas, bem como, para cada falha identificada foi sugerida ações capazes de mitiga-las. Entre os métodos utilizados estão as técnicas de Brainstorming, Análise de Causa Raiz, Diagrama de Causa e Efeito e a Análise de Modos de Falhas. Como resultados alcançados, foi verificado que o trabalho está dentro dos passos da norma ISO 31000 que conta com identificação, análise e avaliação de riscos. Ademais, este trabalho também conta coma determinação de ações corretivas. O artigo contribui como uma pesquisa empírica no ramo de Gerenciamento de Risco voltado a projetos de prestação de serviços.
Transparência nas compras governamentais: avaliação de portais dos institutos federais de educação ciência e tecnologia
Authors: Silveira Nauana Gaivota , Rosa Fabricia Silva da
Published: June 2019

O objetivo desta pesquisa é avaliar o nível de transparência sobre compras públicas nos portais de Institutos Federais de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia. Para tanto, realizou-se análise dos portais dos 38 institutos que compõe a Rede Federal de Educação Profissional, Científica e Tecnológica verificando os seguintes indicadores, identificados a partir da análise da literatura: Disponibilização dos editais; Relação dos participantes; Informações sobre os contratos firmados; Informações específicas aos fornecedores; Glossário; Legislação sobre compras governamentais; Contato para esclarecimentos; Consulta On-line e Atualização. Os indicadores foram classificados em obrigatórios e voluntários. Os dados foram coletados em outubro de 2017. De forma geral, considerando o resultado total do modelo estabelecido, o nível de transparência na disponibilização de informações sobre compras governamentais nos sítios eletrônicos dos institutos federais é predominantemente fraco (50% - 19 institutos), seguido de transparência muito fraca (26,32% - 10 institutos), transparência moderada (18,42% - 7 institutos) e, por fim, transparência avançada (2,63% - 1 instituto) e transparência significativa (2,63% - 1 instituto). Os institutos com transparência fraca somados aos com transparência muito fraca somam 76,32% do total, resultado significativo e alarmante. Apenas os indicadores de 'disponibilização do edital' e 'consulta on-line', ambos obrigatórios, tiveram resultados positivos na maior parte das Instituições. Os indicadores obrigatórios tiveram resultados superiores aos voluntários. Entretanto, a observação de iniciativas nos indicadores voluntários reflete um movimento inicial de reconhecimento da importância destes instrumentos. A intensa expansão dos Institutos desde sua criação, em 2008, pode ter contribuído para o resultado desta pesquisa. Ademais, destacamos a dificuldade das instituições em implementar as práticas de transparência, uma vez que os sistemas utilizados, em sua maioria, não são integrados e a disponibilização dos documentos tem que ser realizada toda de forma manual. Apesar de suas limitações, esta pesquisa contribui com os estudos sobre transparência em compras governamentais uma vez que buscou aprimorar a questão da identificação dos critérios, apresentando critérios de evidenciação voluntária e verificação de ferramentas de apoio ao usuário, e gerenciamento dos mesmos, ao apresentar propostas de aprimoramento de cunho prático, evidenciando a realidade dos Institutos Federais de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia.
El programa mi casa, mi vida: análisis bajo la óptica de las reivindicaciones de los movimientos de vivienda
Authors: Silva Marcus Vinicius Gonçalves da , Ribas João André Nascimento
Published: June 2019

El Partido de los Trabajadores estableció en 2009 el programa Mi Casa Mi Vida (MCMV) visando ampliar el número de habitaciones formales. En la práctica, además de implementar una política pública habitacional, el programa también sirvió como instrumento de combate a crisis financiera global de 2008, con el Estado asumiendo condiciones del empresariamiento financiero en su implementación. Delante de tal configuración, el artículo analiza si las reivindicaciones de los movimientos sociales de vivienda fueron atendidas por el Programa MCMV. Con miras a que investigaciones apuntan que el programa contribuyó con la asignación de los beneficiarios en las áreas periféricas y distantes de las ciudades, se percibe que, aunque haya aumentado el número de habitación formal, no fue capaz de ampliar el derecho a la ciudad para las capas populares. Por eso, son importantes movilizaciones sociales en pro de la búsqueda de derechos dentro del ambiente urbano, así como de cambios en el tratamiento de la cuestión de habitación establecida en el país.
O trabalho do contador: um estudo realizado em instituições federais de ensino de Santa Catarina
Authors: Martins Laís Karine Sardá , Laffin Marcos
Published: June 2019

Esta pesquisa objetiva caracterizar a percepção dos contadores a respeito do trabalho que realizam em Instituições Federais de Ensino de Santa Catarina (IFE/SC) e sua contribuição para gestão e sociedade. Os sujeitos da pesquisa são 41 (quarenta e um) contadores lotados e em exercício nas IFE/SC. Esta pesquisa apoia-se em uma abordagem metodológica qualitativa e como instrumento para coleta de dados utilizou-se a estratégia do questionário. Dessa forma, elaborou-se o instrumento de coleta de dados com o intuito de identificar o nível de formação dos contadores das IFE/SC, bem como o tempo de atuação nas instituições; a compreensão do contador a respeito do ofício realizado, do seu desenvolvimento profissional e sobre a contabilidade; e a percepção do contador acerca do espaço que a contabilidade possui na instituição e quanto à participação do contador na gestão da instituição e na sociedade. Para realizar a análise de conteúdo, fez-se uso da observação categorial descrita por Bardin (2009), que organiza as categorias a partir da totalidade do texto. A fim de dar suporte às considerações utilizaram-se os principais autores MOW (1987), Migliaccio Filho (1994), Silva (2003), Alves et al. (2007), Tolfo et al. (2007), Tonin et al. (2007), Cardoso et al. (2006) e Slomski et al. (2010). Das respostas verificadas, identificaram-se as prerrogativas da ocupação do contador, haja vista que as atividades desempenhadas estão centradas na forte presença de uma rotina em que se evidencia um trabalho mecanizado, repetitivo cuja premissa está centrada na individualização e não na compreensão de todo o processo de trabalho. Apesar da ênfase na repetição, as respostas apontam para o trabalho executado, para a primazia pelo conhecimento técnico e para ética no que se realiza, ainda que esta direcione ao que se realizou. Quanto ao desenvolvimento profissional, as respostas indicam a formação continuada centrada em práticas contábeis rotineiras. Em relação ao espaço que a contabilidade ocupa nas instituições, a compreensão dos contadores é que esse espaço cresce e que os serviços desempenhados pelo contador contribuem para a tomada de decisão da gestão. Desse modo, verifica-se que os profissionais compreendem o produto do trabalho realizado e os benefícios reais para as instituições. Entretanto, os resultados apontam que os contadores possuem dificuldades para compreender o alcance do serviço para a sociedade, e isso impacta no sentido do valor que esse tem para o profissional.
Estimating historical land use patterns in Amazonia for hydrological studies
Authors: Leite Christiane Cavalcante , Costa Marcos Heil , Amorim Ranieri Carlos Ferreira de
Published: June 2019

The evaluation of the impacts of land-use change on the water resources has been, many times, limited by the knowledge of past land use conditions. Most publications on this field present only a vague description of the past land use, which is usually insufficient for more comprehensive studies. This study presents the first reconstruction of the historical land use patterns in Amazonia, that includes both croplands and pasturelands, for the period 1940-1995. During this period, Amazonia experienced the fastest rates of land use change in the world, growing 4-fold from 193,269 km2 in 1940 to 724,899 km2 in 1995. This reconstruction is based on a merging of satellite imagery and census data, and provides a 5'x5' yearly dataset of land use in three different categories (cropland, natural pastureland and planted pastureland) for Amazonia. This dataset will be an important step towards understanding the impacts of changes in land use on the water resources in Amazonia.
Les enjeux éthiques de la formation clinique en ergothérapie
Authors: Drolet Marie-Josée , Sauvageau Anick , Baril Nancy , Gaudet Rébecca
Published: June 2019

Les stages occupent une place centrale dans la formation des futures ergothérapeutes, mais les enjeux éthiques de la formation clinique en ergothérapie sont peu documentés. Une étude auprès de 23 ergothérapeutes ayant de l’expérience comme superviseur de stage1 a été menée afin d’accroître les données sur cet aspect de la profession. Il ressort des entretiens qualitatifs individuels semi-dirigés réalisés avec les participantes que ceux-ci vivent tous des enjeux éthiques comme formateurs cliniques. L’analyse des verbatims fait émerger des enjeux correspondant à six thèmes, soit : 1) les conflits de loyautés multiples; 2) les étudiantes en difficulté ou en situation d’échec; 3) les tensions entre quatre postures éthiques; 4) l’enseignement de l’idéal, du possible ou de rien du tout; 5) les difficultés à soutenir les compétences éthiques et culturelles; 6) les iniquités reliées à la formation clinique. L’étude révèle notamment des enjeux inédits et préoccupants. Puisque certains d’entre eux peuvent occasionner de la souffrance chez la superviseure et la stagiaire, une réflexion critique sur ce rôle de gardienne de la profession s’impose.
Clinical Study of Patients with Heart Failure under treatment with Ozone Therapy.
Authors: Cespedes-Suarez Javier , Martin-Serrano Yanisley , Carballosa-Peña Maria Rosa , Dager-Carballosa Diana Rosa
Published: June 2019

Heart failure (HF) is framed in one of the types of cardiovascular diseases; it consists of an acute and chronic form. The disease can evolve slowly from asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction, to a state of severe disability, presenting a wide prevalence in the population around 10% in people over 70 years old. More than three-quarters of the deaths from this pathology normally occur in low or middle-income countries. Angola is not exempt from this health problem be observed in a relatively young people, bringing disability and death at an early stage of life. Scientific advances and innovative treatments for the control and prevention of the disease continue to be insufficient.
The ozone for it’s antioxidant, hemorheologic properties, oxygenation enhancers and blood circulation is an alternative treatment for these patients.
We have performed a study where 45 patients who were diagnosed with a chronic stage of II-III HF due to the functional classification of the New York Heart Association (NYHA) and American Cardiology College / American Heart Association (ACC / AHA), previous echocardiogram with a Fracture of Left Ventricular Ejection (LVEF) less than 45%. We administered a Major Autohemotherapy with a protocol of 15 sessions, maintenance every 15 days and cycles every 6 months at 50?g of concentration, an initial dose of 4,000 ?g / ml up to 12,000?g / ml during the 3 years of treatment.
Patients after the first treatment cycle improve their functional physical capacity and LVEF increased to normal levels (55%). It was proved that Autohemotherapy is an adjuvant, viable and beneficial treatment in chronic HF.

Key words: Heart failure (HF), Major Autohemotherapy, Ozone therapy, Fracture of Left Ventricular Ejection
Gender and other potential biases in peer review: Analysis of 38,250 external peer review reports
Authors: Severin Anna , Martins Joao , Delavy François , Jorstad Anne , Egger Matthias , Heyard Rachel
Published: June 2019

Background The Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) supports fundamental and use-inspired research in all disciplines. Peer reviewers assess the proposals submitted to the SNSF. We examined whether the gender of applicants and reviewers and other factors influenced the summary scores awarded.

Methods We analysed 38,250 reports on 12,294 grant applications across all disciplines 2006 to 2016. Proposals were rated on a scale from 1 (=worst) to 6 (=best) by 26,836 reviewers. We used linear mixed effects regression models adjusted for research topic, applicant's age, nationality, affiliation and calendar period to examine associations, and interactions between gender of the applicant and other variables.

Results In univariable analysis, male applicants received more favourable evaluation scores than female applicants (+0.19 points; 95% CI 0.14-0.23), and male reviewers awarded higher scores than female reviewers (+0.12; 95% CI 0.08-0.15). Applicant-nominated reviewers awarded higher scores than reviewers nominated by the SNSF (+0.53; 95% CI 0.50-0.56), and reviewers affiliated with research institutions outside of Switzerland more favourable scores than reviewers affiliated with Swiss institutions (+0.53; 95% CI 0.49-0.56). In multivariable analysis, differences between male and female applicants were attenuated (to +0.08; 95% CI 0.04-0.13) whereas results changed little for source of nomination and affiliation of reviewers. There was an interaction between gender of applicant and reviewer, and between gender of applicant and calendar period. Male reviewers gave higher scores than female reviewers, with a greater difference for male than for female applicants (P=0.037 from test of interaction). The gender difference increased after September 2011, when new evaluation forms were introduced (P=0.033 from test of interaction).

Conclusions Our study showed that peer review of grant applications at SNSF might be prone to biases stemming from different applicant and reviewer characteristics. The SNSF abandoned the nomination of peer reviewers by applicants, and made members of panels aware of the other systematic differences in scores. The new form introduced in 2011 may inadvertently have given more emphasis to the applicant’s track record, and a revision is now under discussion. We encourage other funders to conduct similar studies, in order to improve the evidence base for rational and fair research funding.
Common features associated with spinal-anesthesia-induced hypotension: A retrospective study
Authors: Conlon Justin W. , Messana Anthony S. , Swetech Stephen M.
Published: June 2019

A retrospective study investigated features common to 85 documented cases of spinal-anesthesia-induced hypotension. Low preoperative systolic blood pressure and anemia were the most predictive features. Physical status was less important, with the exception of emergency surgeries. An association was found between preoperative medication--especially narcotics-and hypotension. Other variables found to have a high frequency among hypotensive patients were known preexisting pathologic conditions, increasing concentrations of anesthetic used at the time of surgery, and increasing levels of anesthesia achieved. The study is weighted toward obstetric/gynecologic cases.
How glyphosate and its associated acidity affect early development in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Schweizer Mona , Brilisauer Klaus , Triebskorn Rita , Forchhammer Karl , Köhler Heinz-R.
Published: June 2019

Background

Glyphosate is among the most extensively used pesticides worldwide. Following the ongoing highly controversial debate on this compound, its potential impact on non-target organisms is a fundamental scientific issue. In its pure compound form, glyphosate is known for its acidic properties.

Methods

We exposed zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos to concentrations between 10 μM and 10 mM glyphosate in an unbuffered aqueous medium, as well as at pH 7, for 96 hours post fertilization (hpf). Furthermore, we investigated the effects of aqueous media in the range of pH 3 to 8, in comparison with 1 mM glyphosate treatment at the respective pH levels. Additionally, we exposed zebrafish to 7-deoxy-sedoheptulose (7dSh), another substance that interferes with the shikimate pathway by a mechanism analogous to that of glyphosate, at a concentration of one mM. The observed endpoints included mortality, the hatching rate, developmental delays at 24 hpf, the heart rate at 48 hpf and the malformation rate at 96 hpf. LC10/50, EC10and, if reasonable, EC50values were determined for unbuffered glyphosate.

Results

The results revealed high mortalities in all treatments associated with low pH, including high concentrations of unbuffered glyphosate (>500 μM), low pH controls and glyphosate treatments with pH < 3.4. Sublethal endpoints like developmental delays and malformations occurred mainly at higher concentrations of unbuffered glyphosate. In contrast, effects on the hatching rate became particularly prominent in treatments at pH 7, showing that glyphosate significantly accelerates hatching compared with the control and 7dSh, even at the lowest tested concentration. Glyphosate also affected the heart rate, resulting in alterations both at pH 7 and, even more pronounced, in the unbuffered system. In higher concentrations, glyphosate tended to accelerate the heart rate in zebrafish embryos, again, when not masked by the decelerating influence of its low pH. At pH > 4, no mortality occurred, neither in the control nor in glyphosate treatments. At 1 mM, 7dSh did not induce any mortality, developmental delays or malformations; only slightly accelerated hatching and a decelerated heart rate were observed. Our results demonstrate that lethal impacts in zebrafish embryos can be attributed mainly to low pH, but we could also show a pH-independent effect of glyphosate on the development of zebrafish embryos on a sublethal level.
Assessment of the Risk Management Strategies among Arable Crop Farmers in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Ibeagwa O. B. , Ehirim N. C. , Ben-Chendo G. N. , Ukoha I. I. , Osuji E. C. , Maduike I. A. , Okwara M. O. , Martins S. E.
Published: June 2019

The increased incidences of farming risks have been a challenge among smallholder farmers in Nigeria. This study set out to assess risk management strategies among arable crop farmers in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria. The proportion of risk in arable crop production and the factors that influence risk in arable crop production in the study area were specifically estimated. Primary data used for the study were collected with the aid of well-structured questionnaire from eighty-four farmers in the study area. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The result revealed that majority of the arable crop farmers (52.4%) were females. The average age and household size were 54 years and 5 persons respectively. Educational level, age, farming experience, farm size, household size and farm income were the factors influencing the estimated output of the farmers due to the prevalence of risk in arable crop production. The study recommended the continuous education of arable crop farmers in the area so as to increase their capacity to deal with risk on their farms.
Role of Aerosolized Coal Fly Ash in the Global Plankton Imbalance: Case of Florida's Toxic Algae Crisis
Authors: Whiteside Mark , Herndon J. Marvin
Published: June 2019

Red tide is the term used in Florida (USA) and elsewhere to describe a type of marine harmful algal bloom (HAB) that grows out of control and produces neurotoxins that adversely affect humans, birds, fish, shellfish, and marine mammals. HABs are becoming more abundant, extensive, and closer to shore, and longer in duration than any time in recorded history. Our objective is to review the effects the multifold components of aerosolized coal fly ash as they relate to the increasing occurrences of HABs. Aerosolized coal fly ash (CFA) pollutants from non-sequestered coal-fired power plant emissions and from undisclosed, although “hidden in plain sight,” tropospheric particulate geoengineering operations are inflicting irreparable damage to the world’s surface water-bodies and causing great harm to human health (including lung cancer, respiratory and neurodegenerative diseases) and environmental health (including major die-offs of insects, birds and trees). Florida’s ever-growing toxic nightmare of red tides and blue-green algae is a microcosm of similar activity globally. Atmospheric deposition of aerosol particulates, most importantly bioavailable iron, has drastically shifted the global plankton community balance in the direction of harmful algae and cyanobacterial blooms in fresh and salt water. Proposed geoengineering schemes of iron fertilization of the ocean would only make a bad situation unimaginably worse. Based on the evidence presented here, the global spread of harmful algae blooms will only be contained by rapidly reducing particulate air pollution both by implementation of universal industrial particulate-trapping and by the immediate halting of jet-sprayed particulate aerosols. Corrective actions depend not only on international cooperation, but on ending the deadly code of silence throughout government, academe, and media on the subject of ongoing tropospheric aerosol geoengineering. Long-standing weather control, climate intervention, and geoengineering operations have come to threaten not only all humans but the entire web of life on Earth.
Assessment of Anions and Heavy Metals in Sediments from River Sio, Busia County, Kenya
Authors: Ondoo K. O. , Kiptoo J. K. , Onditi A. O. , Shivaji S. M. , Ogilo J. K.
Published: June 2019

Agricultural activities, discharge of raw sewage into farms and the rise in urbanization have greatly contributed to soil pollution. During the rainy season, surface runoff from farms find their way into water bodies and deposits these contaminants into Rivers and Lakes which poses a threat to both aquatic and terrestrial organisms that depend on that water source. The objective of this research was to determine the level of anions and heavy metals from sediments in River Sio, Busia County, Kenya. Five sediment samples were taken from five sampling points and the levels of anions and heavy metals in them determined. Anions were determined using Shimadzu 1800 UV/visible spectrophotometer while heavy metals were determined using Shimadzu 6200 flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). Copper, lead and nickel were above the allowed WHO limits while cadmium was below detection limit. The levels of nitrates, phosphates and chlorides were higher during the wet season due to surface runoff that carried these nutrients from the farms and deposited them on the bottom of the River. The levels of heavy metals were high during the dry season due to evaporation of water from the River, leading to an increase in the analyte concentration during the dry season. High levels of copper and nickel in the sediments points to the use of herbicides and pesticides in farming and washing of vehicles and motorcycles on the banks of the River. According to Igeo nickel showed moderate pollution during the dry season. The contamination factor for lead was very high during the dry season, while pollution load index confirmed pollution due to anthropogenic activities in sampling sites 1 – 4 during the dry season and no pollution due to anthropogenic activities during the wet season.  The study recommends reduced use of inorganic fertilizers in order to save the River from the danger of eutrophication. Excessive use of agrochemicals such as herbicides and pesticides should be discouraged. In addition, pesticide leaching and the level of microbes in soil and sediments should be considered for further research
The Impact of Human Genetic Factors (G6pd and Type of Hemoglobin) on the Course of Uncomplicated Malaria Infection in Children Aged from 2 to 10 Years Living in the Banfora Health District in Burkina Faso
Authors: Sombié Salif , Badoum Emilie S. , Sermé Samuel Sindié , Diawara Aïssatou , Diarra Amidou , Coulibaly Sam Aboubacar , Henry/Béré Noelie , Dieng Mame Massar , Barry Aissata , Kargougou Désiré , Traoré Alfred Sababeni , Tiono Alfred B. , Sirima Bienvenu Sodiomon , Idaghdour Youssef , Soulama Issiaka
Published: June 2019

Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of hemoglobin polymorphisms and G6PD deficiency on the course of uncomplicated malaria infection in children aged from 2 to 10 years in Burkina Faso.

Study Design: The study was conducted as a longitudinal study in Banfora health district. A total of 150 children aged from 2 to 10 years was enrolled and followed up between May 2015 and February 2016. Blood samples were collected at four different time points: before infection (Visit 1), during asymptomatic parasitemia (Visit 2), during symptomatic parasitemia (Visit 3) and three weeks after treatment (Visit 4). Clinical examination, hematology parameters and malaria diagnosis using microscopy were performed. Hemoglobin and G6PD typing were done using PCR-RFLP. Hemoglobin AA genotypes were defined as normal hemoglobin while Hemoglobin AC, AS and SS were defined as abnormal hemoglobin (hb non-AA).

Results: The prevalence of hemoglobin (hb) genotypes was 81.21% for AA while hb non-AA genotypes were estimated at 18.79% (12.08% for hbAC, 6.04% for hbAS and 0.67% for HbSC). The prevalence of G6PD genotypes was 89.26% and 10.74% for normal G6PDn and G6PD deficiency respectively. The prevalence of asymptomatic carriers of P. falciparum was not affected neither by the genotypes of Hemoglobin, nor by the G6PD deficiency. Conversely, the risks of developing uncomplicated malaria in G6PD deficiency (G202A) group, was significantly lower (p = 0.04).

The results showed a significant difference (p˂0.0001) in the means of P. falciparum parasite densities between asymptomatic and symptomatic phase in Hemoglobin AA genotypes carriers while the means of parasite density was comparable in non-Hemoglobin AA carriers.   

Conclusion: Our study showed that G6PD deficiency protects against clinical malaria while P. falciparum parasite density increasing was correlated with carrying hemoglobin genotypes AA.
Analysis and Modeling of Tuberculosis Transmission Dynamics
Authors: Jerubet Rodah , Kimathi George , Wanaina Mary
Published: June 2019

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the causative agent of Tuberculosis in humans [1,2]. A mathematical model that explains the transmission of Tuberculosis is developed. The model consists of four compartments; the susceptible humans, the infectious humans, the latently infected humans, and the recovered humans. We conducted an analysis of the disease-free equilibrium and endemic equilibrium points. We also computed the basic reproduction number using the next generation matrix approach. The disease-free equilibrium was found to be asymptotically stable if the reproduction number was less than one. The most sensitive parameter to the basic reproduction number was also determined using sensitivity analysis. Recruitment and contact rate are the most sensitive parameter that contributes to the basic reproduction number. Ordinary Differential Equations is used in the for­mulation of the model equations. The Tuberculosis model is analyzed in order to give a proper account of the impact of its transmission dynamics and the effect of the latent stage in TB transmission. The steady state's solution of the model is investigated. The findings showed that as more people come into contact with infectious individuals, the spread of TB would increase. The latent rate of infection below a critical value makes TB infection to persist.   However, the recovery rate of infectious individuals is an indication that the spread of the disease will reduce with time which could help curb TB transmission.
Improvement of Antibiotics Susceptibility of Escherichia coli in a Tertiary Hospital in Japan
Authors: Watanabe Yuji , Seki Masafumi
Published: June 2019

Antimicrobial stewardship team (AST) and Infection Control Team (ICT) have recently been linked Infectious diseases (ID) physicians, and implemented in clinical settings in Japan. The microbiological effects of an AST and ICT, in addition to Diagnostic stewardship team (DST) supported by ID physicians in our tertiary hospital were shown in significant reduction of antibiotic resistance of Escherichia coli (E coli) including extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL)-producing E coli.
Gestão Ambiental em Instituição de Ensino superior na Visão de seus Dirigentes
Authors: Boff Marines Lucia , Oro Ieda Margarete , Beuren Ilse Maria
Published: June 2019

O trabalho objetiva descrever a gestão ambiental em Instituição de Ensino Superior comunitária, na visão de seus dirigentes. Partiu-se da premissa de que a gestão ambiental não se restringe mais a um determinado grupo de empresas que se utilizam dos recursos naturais para o desenvolvimento de suas atividades, mas estende-se à qualquer tipo de organização e comunidade em geral. Em vista disso, realizou-se um estudo exploratório, por meio de estudo de caso em uma Instituição de Ensino Superior (IES) filantrópica e comunitária, com abordagem qualitativa dos dados. Os resultados da pesquisa mostram que, assumir ou não essa responsabilidade depende das crenças e valores dos principais dirigentes da IES, visto que são eles os tomadores das decisões. Seus princípios e práticas com relação ao meio ambiente são fundamentais no tratamento dos impactos ambientais causados pela IES. Conclui-se que às IES, principalmente por serem provedoras e disseminadoras de conhecimento, recai também a responsabilidade pela proteção e qualidade do meio ambiente onde estão inseridas.
Altered N‐glycosylation profiles as potential biomarkers and drug targets in diabetes
Authors: Rudman Najda , Gornik Olga , Lauc Gordan
Published: June 2019

N‐glycosylation is a ubiquitous protein modification, and N‐glycosylation profiles are emerging as both biomarkers and functional effectors in various types of diabetes. Genome‐wide association studies identified glycosyltransferase genes as candidate causal genes for type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Studies focused on N‐glycosylation changes in type 2 diabetes demonstrated that patients can be distinguished from healthy controls based on N‐glycome composition. In addition, individuals at an increased risk of future disease development could be identified based on N‐glycome profiles. Moreover, accumulating evidence indicates that N‐glycans have a major role in preventing the impairment of glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion by maintaining the glucose transporter in proper orientation, indicating that interindividual variation in protein N‐glycosylation might be a novel risk factor contributing to diabetes development. Defective N‐glycosylation of T cells has been implicated in type 1 diabetes pathogenesis. Furthermore, studies of N‐glycan alterations have successfully been used to identify individuals with rare types of diabetes (such as the HNF1A‐MODY), and also to evaluate functional significance of novel diabetes‐associated mutations. In conclusion, both N‐glycans and glycosyltransferases emerge as potential therapeutic targets in diabetes.
The identification of a TNBC liver metastasis gene signature by sequential CTC‐xenograft modeling
Authors: Vishnoi Monika , Liu Nikki Haowen , Yin Wei , Boral Debasish , Scamardo Antonio , Hong David , Marchetti Dario
Published: June 2019

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) liver metastasis is associated with poor prognosis and low patient survival. It occurs when tumor cells disseminate from primary tumors, circulate in blood/lymph [circulating tumor cells (CTCs)], and acquire distinct characteristics during disease progression toward the metastatic phenotype. The purpose of this study was to decipher the genomic/transcriptomic properties of TNBC liver metastasis and its recurrence for potential therapeutic targeting. We employed a negative depletion strategy to isolate and interrogate CTCs from the blood of patients with TNBC, and to establish sequential generations of CTC‐derived xenografts (CDXs) through injection of patient CTCs in immunodeficient mice. The isolation and validation of CDX‐derived cell populations [analyses of CTCs were paired with bone marrow‐resident cells (BMRTCs) and liver tissue cells obtained from the same animal] were performed by multiparametric flow cytometry, immune phenotyping, and genomic sequencing of putative CTCs. Comprehensive characterization of gene expression arrays from sequentially generated CDX‐derived cell populations, online gene expression arrays, and TCGA databases were employed to discover a CTC‐driven, liver metastasis‐associated TNBC signature. We discovered a distinct transcriptomic signature of TNBC patient‐isolated CTCs from primary TNBCs, which was consistent throughout sequential CDX modeling. We established a novel TNBC liver metastasis‐specific CDX model that selectively recapitulates CTC biology for four sequential generations of mice. The evaluation of online databases and CDX‐derived populations revealed 597 genes specific to the TNBC liver metastasis signatures. Further investigation of the TNBC liver metastasis signature predicted 16 hub genes, 6 biomarkers with clinically available drugs, and 22 survival genes. The sequential interrogation of CDX‐CTCs is an innovative liquid biopsy‐based approach for the discovery of organ metastasis‐specific signatures of CTCs. This represents the first step for mechanistic and analytical validation in their application as prognostic indicators and therapeutic targets. Targeting CTC drug candidate biomarkers along with combination therapy can improve the clinical outcome of TNBC patients in general and recurrence of liver metastasis in particular.
Tumor‐proximal liquid biopsy to improve diagnostic and prognostic performances of circulating tumor cells
Authors: Buscail Etienne , Chiche Laurence , Laurent Christophe , Vendrely Véronique , Denost Quentin , Denis Jérôme , Thumerel Matthieu , Lacorte Jean‐Marc , Bedel Aurélie , Moreau‐Gaudry François , Dabernat Sandrine , Alix‐Panabières Catherine
Published: June 2019

Circulating tumor cell (CTC) detection and numeration are becoming part of the common clinical practice, especially for breast, colon, and prostate cancer. However, their paucity in peripheral blood samples is an obstacle for their identification. Several groups have tried to improve CTC recovery rate by developing highly sensitive cellular and molecular detection methods. However, CTCs are still difficult to detect in peripheral blood. Therefore, their recovery rate could be increased by obtaining blood samples from vessels close to the drainage territories of the invaded organ, when the anatomical situation is favorable. This approach has been tested mostly during tumor resection surgery, when the vessels nearest to the tumor are easily accessible. Moreover, radiological (including echo‐guided based and endovascular techniques) and/or endoscopic routes could be utilized to obtain CTC samples close to the tumor in a less invasive way than conventional biopsies. The purpose of this article is to summarize the available knowledge on CTC recovery from blood samples collected close to the tumor (i.e., in vessels located in the drainage area of the primary tumor or metastases). The relevance of such an approach for diagnostic and prognostic evaluations will be discussed, particularly for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, colorectal adenocarcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and non‐small‐cell lung cancer.
Epitaxial TiOx Surface in Ferroelectric BaTiO3: Native Structure and Dynamic Patterning at the Atomic Scale
Authors: Barzilay Maya , Qiu Tian , Rappe Andrew M. , Ivry Yachin
Published: June 2019

Surfaces and interfaces of ferroelectric oxides exhibit enhanced functionality, and therefore serve as a platform for novel nano and quantum technologies. Experimental and theoretical challenges associated with examining the subtle electro‐chemo‐mechanical balance at metal‐oxide surfaces have hindered the understanding and control of their structure and behavior. Here, combined are advanced electron‐microscopy and first‐principles thermodynamics methods to reveal the atomic‐scale chemical and crystallographic structure of the surface of the seminal ferroelectric BaTiO3. It is shown that the surface is composed of a native <2 nm thick TiOx rock‐salt layer in epitaxial registry with the BaTiO3. Using electron‐beam irradiation, artificial TiOx sites with sub‐nanometer resolution are successfully patterned, by inducing Ba escape. Therefore, this work offers electro‐chemo‐mechanical insights into ferroelectric surface behavior in addition to a method for scalable high‐resolution beam‐induced chemical lithography for selectively driving surface phase transitions, and thereby functionalizing metal‐oxide surfaces.