bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DIREITOS SOCIAIS E SUA EFETIVAÇÃO: UMA ANÁLISE A PARTIR DOS PRINCÍPIOS DA PROPORCIONALIDADE E DA PROIBIÇÃO DO RETROCESSO SOCIAL
Authors: Capeleti Célia Regina , Guimarães Tang Vidal Pedro Walter
Published: September 2016

Por meio de uma perspectiva histórico-constitucional, o presente estudo aborda a problemática da efetivação dos Direitos Sociais na tentativa de resolver o seguinte problema jurídico: Qual é o papel dos Princípios da Proporcionalidade e da Proibição do Retrocesso na efetivação dos Direitos Sociais? Para tanto, identifica-se o surgimento e evolução destes direitos no mundo e no Brasil e, com propriedade, debate-se o tratamento doutrinário e jurisprudencial sobre referidos princípios enquanto mecanismos jurídicos garantidores de Direitos Sociais. Tendo em conta que tais direitos implicam custos e definições de políticas públicas de investimento pelo Estado, considera-se, ao final, que os princípios atuam como balizadores das escolhas do Executivo e Legislativo. A proporcionalidade de forma prévia, a Proibição do Retrocesso de forma posterior à implementação dos Direitos Sociais.Utilizou-se para o desenvolvimento desta pesquisa o método indutivo, operacionalizado pela técnica da pesquisa bibliográfica.
Post-treatment of palm oil mill effluent (POME) using combined persulphate with hydrogen peroxide (S2O82−/H2O2) oxidation
Authors: Lin Chia Ken , Bashir Mohammed J. K. , Abu Amr Salem S. , Sim Lan Ching
Published: September 2016

The aim of the current study is to evaluate the effectiveness of combined persulphate with hydrogen peroxide (S2O82−/H2O2) oxidation as a post-treatment of biologically treated palm oil mill effluent (POME) for the first time in the literature. The removal efficiencies of chemical oxygen demand (COD), ammoniacal nitrogen (NH3-N), and suspended solids (SS) were 36.8%, 47.6%, and 90.6%, respectively, by S2O82− oxidation alone under certain operation conditions (i.e., S2O82− = 0.82 g, pH 11, and contact time 20 min). Nevertheless, the combined process (S2O82−/H2O2) achieved 75.8% and 87.1% removals of NH3-N and SS, respectively, under 2.45/1.63 g/g H2O2/S2O82−, pH 11, and 20 min oxidation. Moreover, 56.9% of COD was removed at pH 8.4.
A relação entre produção científica e avaliação da Capes: um estudo cientométrico de um programa das Engenharias II e de um programa interdisciplinar
Authors: Fagá Isadora Trombeta , Quoniam Luc Marie
Published: September 2016

Visto que atualmente existe transparência de informações dos programas de pós-graduação derivada da Plataforma Sucupira e da Plataforma Lattes, surge como questão de pesquisa a possibilidade de viabilização de ferramenta que gere e analise indicadores de produção dos programas de pós-graduação brasileiros. Assim, este estudo tem como objetivo analisar, por meio dos currículos Lattes, dois programas de pós-graduação: o Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência e Engenharia de Materiais (PPGCEM) e o Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência, Tecnologia e Sociedade (PPGCTS), ambos da Universidade Federal de São Carlos. Para esta análise, foi utilizada a abordagem metodológica de estudo de casos múltiplos, e para a extração das informações contidas nos currículos Lattes dos pesquisadores desses programas, um script disponível no repositório BitBucket.
O Programa Nacional de Cooperação Acadêmica – PROCAD na visão dos avaliadores de projetos
Authors: Moura Elci Vieira de , Rocha Neto Ivan
Published: September 2016

Este artigo teve como propósito apresentar e analisar as percepções, as críticas e as sugestões dos consultores que participaram de processos avaliativos no âmbito do Programa Nacional de Cooperação Acadêmica (Procad), tanto na submissão de propostas quanto na avaliação intermediária dos projetos em andamento, visando contribuir para o aprimoramento do programa. A pesquisa de natureza qualitativa e quantitativa foi realizada mediante consulta, por correio eletrônico, enviada aos integrantes da comissão de avaliação de projetos Procad. O questionário foi composto por 15 quesitos de natureza qualitativa, abrangendo 13 questões fechadas e duas abertas, relativas aos objetivos e às características do programa. Com base neste estudo, foi possível compreender que a institucionalização de um sistema de avaliação contínua para o Procad poderia contribuir para o aprimoramento do programa e para a criação de novas ações voltadas ao desenvolvimento da pós-graduação. A implantação de medidas aqui sugeridas também proporcionaria melhorias ao Procad.
Produção científica indexada na base Web of Science na área de Neurociências e Comportamento relacionada com o tema Educação
Authors: Haeffner Cristina , Guimarães Jorge Almeida
Published: September 2016

O presente trabalho faz uma análise cientométrica da área de Neurociências e Comportamento relacionada com o tema Educação, cobrindo dados quali-quantitativos da produção científica no Brasil e no mundo. O estudo abrange o período de 1945 a 2014 para os dados mundiais e, para o Brasil, de 1990 a 2014, além de dados dos grupos de pesquisa do CNPq, e da pós-graduação na área da Capes. Foi possível constatar significativo crescimento do número de artigos publicados no mundo e no Brasil. Não obstante, os dados brasileiros são ainda pouco expressivos no número de publicações, no índice de colaboração internacional e no número de grupos de pesquisa, de pesquisadores e de recursos humanos (pós-graduação). Como dado positivo, foi constatada forte interação entre os grupos de pesquisa das instituições brasileiras, o que indica percepção da importância do tema no Brasil.
A formação acadêmica e a produção do conhecimento científico do fisioterapeuta pesquisador amazônida
Authors: Warken Gianne De La-Rocque Barros , Freitas Jofre Jacob da Silva , Domingues Robson José de Souza , Kietzer Katia Simone
Published: September 2016

Este artigo correlaciona os dados de formação de 66 fisioterapeutas pesquisadores amazônidas e suas produções bibliográficas. Os dados mostram que apenas 24,2% são doutores, 50% realizaram a pós-graduação na região amazônica e 13% fizeram pós-graduação na área de Fisioterapia, todos estes fora da região amazônica. Constatou-se que a produção científica está concentrada em revistas Qualis B. Entende-se que o caminho para que o fisioterapeuta da região produza conhecimentos voltados à área de Fisioterapia e também relacionados à realidade local é o fortalecimento dos programas de iniciação científica e a união de competências entre instituições, com o intuito de implementar programas de pós-graduação stricto sensu em Fisioterapia na região amazônica.
Realidade física e a experiência de ser e existir
Authors: Souza Ricardo Pires de
Published: September 2016

A realidade física nos é inacessível e não sabemos o que somos ou o que é a realidade. A psique – a experiência psicológica individual subjetiva, parte consciente e parte profundamente inconsciente – é a única experiência de ser e existir e a única realidade a que temos acesso. A origem da imagem de Deus está na busca de contenção para a perplexidade e o medo diante da ideia da morte e do desconhecido e da não-existência, e na busca de significado para a experiência psíquica percebida como realidade única. A diversidade de expressões das imagens de Deus – sejam declaradamente religiosas, sejam em suas formulações racionais e matemáticas – é função da cultura e assume forma narrativa psicologicamente verdadeira. Descrever a realidade experimentada é o que nos é possível e nos cabe.
Association of Increasing GFR with Change in Albuminuria in the General Population
Authors: Melsom Toralf , Stefansson Vidar , Schei Jørgen , Solbu Marit , Jenssen Trond , Wilsgaard Tom , Eriksen Bjørn O.
Published: September 2016

Background and objectives

Hyperfiltration at the single-nephron level has been proposed as an early stage of kidney dysfunction of different origins. Evidence supporting this hypothesis in humans is lacking, because there is no method of measuring single-nephron GFR in humans. However, increased whole-kidney GFR in the same individual implies an increased single–nephron GFR, because the number of nephrons does not increase with age. We hypothesized that an increase in GFR would be associated with an increased albumin-to-creatinine ratio in a cohort of the general population.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We measured GFR by iohexol clearance at baseline in 2007–2009 and follow-up after 5.6 years in a representative sample of 1246 persons (aged 50–62 years) who were nondiabetic from the general population of Tromso, northern Norway. Participants were without cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, or diabetes at baseline. We investigated the association between change in GFR and change in albumin-to-creatinine ratio. Increased GFR was defined as a positive change in GFR (change in GFR>0 ml/min) from baseline to follow-up. An albumin-to-creatinine ratio >30 mg/g was classified as albuminuria.

Results

Change in GFR was positively associated with a change in albumin-to-creatinine ratio in the entire cohort in the multiple linear regression. The albumin-to-creatinine ratiofollow-up-to-albumin-to-creatinine ratiobaseline ratio increased by 8.0% (95% confidence interval, 1.4 to 15.0) per SD increase in change in GFR. When participants with increased GFR (n=343) were compared with those with a reduced GFR (n=903), the ratio increased by 16.3% (95% confidence interval, 1.1 to 33.7). The multivariable adjusted odds ratio for incident albuminuria (n=14) was 4.98 (95% confidence interval, 1.49 to 16.13) for those with an increased GFR (yes/no).

Conclusions

Increasing GFR is associated with an increase in albumin-to-creatinine ratio and incident albuminuria in the general nondiabetic population. These findings support single-nephron hyperfiltration as a risk factor for albuminuria in the general population.
Community-wide outbreak of haemolytic uraemic syndrome associated with Shiga toxin 2-producing Escherichia coli O26:H11 in southern Italy, summer 2013
Authors: Germinario Cinzia , Caprioli Alfredo , Giordano Mario , Chironna Maria , Gallone Maria Serena , Tafuri Silvio , Minelli Fabio , Maugliani Antonella , Michelacci Valeria , Santangelo Luisa , Mongelli Onofrio , Montagna Cosimo , Scavia Gaia ,   on behalf of all participants of the Outbreak investigation team
Published: September 2016

In summer 2013, an excess of paediatric cases of haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) in a southern region of Italy prompted the investigation of a community-wide outbreak of Shiga toxin 2-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) O26:H11 infections. Case finding was based on testing patients with HUS or bloody diarrhoea for STEC infection by microbiological and serological methods. A case–control study was conducted to identify the source of the outbreak. STEC O26 infection was identified in 20 children (median age 17 months) with HUS, two of whom reported severe neurological sequelae. No cases in adults were detected. Molecular typing showed that two distinct STEC O26:H11 strains were involved. The case–control study showed an association between STEC O26 infection and consumption of dairy products from two local plants, but not with specific ready-to-eat products. E.coli O26:H11 strains lacking the stx genes were isolated from bulk milk and curd samples, but their PFGE profiles did not match those of the outbreak isolates. This outbreak supports the view that infections with Stx2-producing E. coli O26 in children have a high probability of progressing to HUS and represent an emerging public health problem in Europe.
Two-stage method of synthesis of ultrafine powder of α-phase metallic cobalt
Authors: Nikolaenko Irina , Pavlov Aleksey , Shveikin Gennadii
Published: September 2016

In this article a new method of synthesizing ultrafine powder of α-phase metallic cobalt is proposed, synthesis by a combination of two methods, liquid-phase precipitation on a carbon support and low-temperature microwave heat treatment in the stream of argon. An entire spectrum of intermediates obtained during thermolysis and reduction of cobalt precursors during heat treatment by electromagnetic field to the final product is presented. Sample structure, morphology and particle size as well as phase composition and the size of specific surface areas are shown.
Use of Social Media by Transportation Agencies for Traffic Management
Authors: Wojtowicz Jeffrey , Wallace William A.
Published: September 2016

Social media have become an integral part of modern communication. There is, however, no clear consensus among transportation managers about how social media could or should be used to collect or disseminate actionable information. To provide guidance on the potential use of social media in transportation, a better understanding is needed of the content of the message as well as the path taken from the sender to the potential user of actionable information during crises and other nonroutine events in the transportation system. This paper assesses how social media are used to support traffic management operations during planned special events, such as concerts and sporting events, and during unplanned disruptive events, such as accidents and weather events. This paper also examines best practices for traffic operations among various agencies and presents practices used to disseminate real-time, actionable information to motorists in a useful and engaging format via social media.
Efficient Synthesis of Novel 5-Phenylsulfonyl-Substituted 4,5-Dihydro-1H-Pyrazolo[3,4-b]Pyridines
Authors: Fan Ling , Ruan Chengcheng , Guo Binghuang , Tang Xiwu , Xia Peng
Published: September 2016

An efficient method for the synthesis of novel 5-phenylsulfonyl substituted 4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines from 5-aminopyrazoles, aldehydes and β-ketosulfones in refluxing acetic acid is described. The X-ray crystallographic structure of the product was determined.
Copper(II) Acetate-Catalysed Conversion of Aldoximes to Amides under Mild Conditions
Authors: Ma Xiaoyun , Lu Ming
Published: September 2016

A mild method for the metal-catalysed conversion of aldoximes to amides has been achieved by the combined use of copper(II) acetate and MeCN in EtOH under reflux. The presence of a catalytic amount of MeCN (0.05 equiv.) accelerated the reaction and improved the yield. Aryl, heteroaryl and alkyl aldoximes were transformed into the corresponding amides in moderate to good yield. 2-Furyl and 2-thiophenyl aldoximes, which possess a heteroatom lone pair positioned ortho to the oximido group, showed enhanced reactivity, and the corresponding amides were obtained in excellent yield.
Four-Component Reaction of α-naphthol, an Arylglyoxal, Aniline and a Dialkyl Acetylenedicarboxylate: A Michael Addition of Enamines to α,β-unsaturated γ-dicarbonyl Compounds
Authors: Mehrabi Hossein , Fadaei Mohadeseh , Zadeh Ashrafosadat Beheshti
Published: September 2016

Seven new tetracyclic diesters [dialkyl 1-anilino-4-aryl-3-(1-hydroxynaphthalen-2-yl)-4-oxobut-1-ene-1,2-dicarboxylates] have been prepared in good yield by a one-pot four-component reaction between enamine intermediates (as Michael donors) generated from aniline and a dialkyl acetylenedicarboxylate and α,β-unsaturated γ-dicarbonyl intermediates (as Michael acceptors) generated from α-naphthol and an arylglyoxal without using a catalyst in ethanol at reflux conditions.
A Repetitive Control Scheme Aimed at Compensating the 6k + 1 Harmonics for a Three-Phase Hybrid Active Filter
Authors: Luo Zhaoxu , Su Mei , Yang Jian , Sun Yao , Hou Xiaochao , Guerrero Josep
Published: September 2016

The traditional repetitive controller has relatively worse stability and poor transient performance because it generates infinite gain at all the integer multiples of the fundamental frequency, and its control action is postponed by one fundamental period (T0). To improve these disadvantages, many repetitive controllers with reduced delay time have been proposed, which can selectively compensate the odd harmonics or 6k ± 1 harmonics with delay time reduced to T0/2 and T0/3, respectively. To further study in this area, this paper proposes an improved repetitive scheme implemented in a stationary reference frame, which only compensates the 6k + 1 harmonics (e.g., −5, +7, −11, +13) in three-phase systems and reduces the time delay to T0/6. Thus compared with the earlier reduced delay time repetitive controllers, the robustness and transient performance is further improved, the waste of control effort is reduced, and the possibility of amplifying and even injecting any harmonic noises into the system is avoided to a great extent. Moreover, the proposed repetitive scheme is used in the control of a three-phase hybrid active power filter. The experimental results validate the effectiveness of the proposed repetitive control scheme.
Metabolic Genes within Cyanophage Genomes: Implications for Diversity and Evolution
Authors: Gao E-Bin , Huang Youhua , Ning Degang
Published: September 2016

Cyanophages, a group of viruses specifically infecting cyanobacteria, are genetically diverse and extensively abundant in water environments. As a result of selective pressure, cyanophages often acquire a range of metabolic genes from host genomes. The host-derived genes make a significant contribution to the ecological success of cyanophages. In this review, we summarize the host-derived metabolic genes, as well as their origin and roles in cyanophage evolution and important host metabolic pathways, such as the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, the pentose phosphate pathway, nutrient acquisition and nucleotide biosynthesis. We also discuss the suitability of the host-derived metabolic genes as potential diagnostic markers for the detection of genetic diversity of cyanophages in natural environments.
Recent Advances in Understanding Amino Acid Sensing Mechanisms that Regulate mTORC1
Authors: Zheng Liufeng , Zhang Wei , Zhou Yuanfei , Li Fengna , Wei Hongkui , Peng Jian
Published: September 2016

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is the central regulator of mammalian cell growth, and is essential for the formation of two structurally and functionally distinct complexes: mTORC1 and mTORC2. mTORC1 can sense multiple cues such as nutrients, energy status, growth factors and hormones to control cell growth and proliferation, angiogenesis, autophagy, and metabolism. As one of the key environmental stimuli, amino acids (AAs), especially leucine, glutamine and arginine, play a crucial role in mTORC1 activation, but where and how AAs are sensed and signal to mTORC1 are not fully understood. Classically, AAs activate mTORC1 by Rag GTPases which recruit mTORC1 to lysosomes, where AA signaling initiates. Plasma membrane transceptor L amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1)-4F2hc has dual transporter-receptor function that can sense extracellular AA availability upstream of mTORC1. The lysosomal AA sensors (PAT1 and SLC38A9) and cytoplasmic AA sensors (LRS, Sestrin2 and CASTOR1) also participate in regulating mTORC1 activation. Importantly, AAs can be sensed by plasma membrane receptors, like G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) T1R1/T1R3, and regulate mTORC1 without being transported into the cells. Furthermore, AA-dependent mTORC1 activation also initiates within Golgi, which is regulated by Golgi-localized AA transporter PAT4. This review provides an overview of the research progress of the AA sensing mechanisms that regulate mTORC1 activity.
Cinnamide Derivatives as Mammalian Arginase Inhibitors: Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and Molecular Docking
Authors: Pham Thanh-Nhat , Bordage Simon , Pudlo Marc , Demougeot Céline , Thai Khac-Minh , Girard-Thernier Corine
Published: September 2016

Arginases are enzymes that are involved in many human diseases and have been targeted for new treatments. Here a series of cinnamides was designed, synthesized and evaluated in vitro and in silico for their inhibitory activity against mammalian arginase. Using a microassay on purified liver bovine arginase (b-ARG I), (E)-N-(2-phenylethyl)-3,4-dihydroxycinnamide, also named caffeic acid phenylamide (CAPA), was shown to be slightly more active than our natural reference inhibitor, chlorogenic acid (IC50 = 6.9 ± 1.3 and 10.6 ± 1.6 µM, respectively) but it remained less active that the synthetic reference inhibitor Nω-hydroxy-nor-l-arginine nor-NOHA (IC50 = 1.7 ± 0.2 µM). Enzyme kinetic studies showed that CAPA was a competitive inhibitor of arginase with Ki = 5.5 ± 1 µM. Whereas the activity of nor-NOHA was retained (IC50 = 5.7 ± 0.6 µM) using a human recombinant arginase I (h-ARG I), CAPA showed poorer activity (IC50 = 60.3 ± 7.8 µM). However, our study revealed that the cinnamoyl moiety and catechol function were important for inhibitory activity. Docking results on h-ARG I demonstrated that the caffeoyl moiety could penetrate into the active-site pocket of the enzyme, and the catechol function might interact with the cofactor Mn2+ and several crucial amino acid residues involved in the hydrolysis mechanism of arginase. The results of this study suggest that 3,4-dihydroxycinnamides are worth being considered as potential mammalian arginase inhibitors, and could be useful for further research on the development of new arginase inhibitors.
The Evolution of Microstructures and the Properties of Bulk Metallic Glass with Consubstantial Composition Laser Welding
Authors: Tao Pingjun , Zhang Wenwu , Tu Qi , Yang Yuanzheng
Published: September 2016

A Zr55Cu30Ni5Al10 plate-like bulk metallic glass (BMG) was prepared using copper mold suction casting. Additionally, alloy powders with the same nominal composition were synthesized. The alloy powders were welded or melted to the cleaned surface of the BMG with a laser beam acceleration voltage of 60 kV, a beam current range from 60 to 100 mA, a welding speed of 60 mm/s, as well as an impulse width of 3.0 ms. The effect of consubstantial composition welding on the microstructures and properties was investigated. The molten and subsequently solidified metallic mixtures remain an amorphous structure, but the enthalpy of the welded or melted position varies due to the combination of the micro-structural relaxation and nano-crystals precipitated during the energy inputs. The surface layers of the BMG can be significantly intensified after welding processes; however, the heat-affected zones (HAZs) exhibit a slight degradation in mechanical properties with respect to the BMG matrix. This study has important reference value for specialists working on the promotion of applications of BMGs.
MicroRNA-33b Inhibits the Proliferation and Migration of Osteosarcoma Cells via Targeting Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α
Authors: Zhou Yong , Yang Chuandong , Wang Kunpeng , Liu Xuefeng , Liu Quan
Published: September 2016

Recently, microRNA (miR)-33b has been demonstrated to act as a tumor suppressor in osteosarcoma. However, the regulatory mechanism of miR-33b in osteosarcoma cell proliferation and migration remains largely unknown. In this study, real-time PCR showed that miR-33b was significantly
downregulated in osteosarcoma tissues compared to their matched adjacent nontumor tissues. Its expression was also decreased in several common osteosarcoma cell lines, including Saos-2, MG63, U2OS, and SW1353, when compared to normal osteoblast cell line hFOB. Overexpression of miR-33b suppressed
U2OS cell proliferation and migration. HIF-1α was further identified as a target of miR-33b, and its protein levels were reduced after overexpression of miR-33b in U2OS cells. Moreover, overexpression of HIF-1α significantly reversed the suppressive effect of miR-33b on U2OS cell
proliferation and migration. In addition, HIF-1α was found to be significantly upregulated in osteosarcoma tissues compared to adjacent nontumor tissues, and their expression levels were inversely correlated to the miR-33b levels in osteosarcoma tissues. According to these findings,
miR-33b plays a suppressive role in the regulation of osteosarcoma cell proliferation and migration via directly targeting HIF-1α. Therefore, we suggest that the miR-33b/HIF-1α axis may become a promising therapeutic target for osteosarcoma.
Pharmacokinetics of Intraperitoneal Daptomycin in Patients with Peritoneal Dialysis-Related Peritonitis
Authors: Paul Laure Peyro Saint , Ficheux Maxence , Debruyne Danièle , Loilier Magalie , Bouvier Nicolas , Morello Rémy , Parienti Jean-Jacques , Verdon Renaud , Fournel François , Cattoir Vincent , Lobbedez Thierry
Published: September 2016

Background

Antibiotics are preferentially delivered via the peritoneal route to treat peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis (PDRP) to ensure that maximal concentrations are delivered to the site of infection. Our study focused on the pharmacokinetics of daptomycin (DAP) administered via the intraperitoneal (IP) route in patients with PDRP.

Methods

According to the DaptoDP protocol (Clinical Trial No. 2012-005699-33), IP DAP was administered daily, i.e., during the 6-h Nutrineal (Baxter Healthcare Corporation, Deerfield, IL, USA) dwell time period, for 14 days, in addition to administration of the antibiotics used for the usual care of patients with PDRP. The plasma and IP levels of DAP were measured on days 1 and 5. The tested dose was 200 mg/day. The principal endpoint was the dialysate concentration after 6 hours of dwell time > 16 mg/L (corresponding to 4 x minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC] for E. faecalis).

Results

Three participants were evaluated. On day 5, the IP concentrations after 6 hours of dwell time were between 6.3 and 23.4 mg/L, and the peak plasma concentrations were between 13.0 and 15.3 mg/L.

Conclusion

The results suggest that 200 mg/day is very likely sufficient for the treatment of PDRP by Staphylococci or Streptococci whereas it could be insufficient to treat PRDP by Enterococci. The good peritoneal bioavailability of DAP was quantitatively established, suggesting that IP administration could also be used as an alternate route for patients with damaged venous access. No DAP accumulation that could lead to toxic concentrations after repeated administration is expected, even in anuric patients. The protocol will further continue to assess whether a higher dose achieves the pharmacokinetic objectives.
Dealloying of gold–copper alloy nanowires: From hillocks to ring-shaped nanopores
Authors: Chauvin Adrien , Delacôte Cyril , Boujtita Mohammed , Angleraud Benoit , Ding Junjun , Choi Chang-Hwan , Tessier Pierre-Yves , El Mel Abdel-Aziz
Published: September 2016

We report on a novel fabrication approach of metal nanowires with complex surface. Taking advantage of nodular growth triggered by the presence of surface defects created intentionally on the substrate as well as the high tilt angle between the magnetron source axis and the normal to the substrate, metal nanowires containing hillocks emerging out of the surface can be created. The approach is demonstrated for several metals and alloys including gold, copper, silver, gold–copper and gold–silver. We demonstrate that applying an electrochemical dealloying process to the gold–copper alloy nanowire arrays allows for transforming the hillocks into ring-like shaped nanopores. The resulting porous gold nanowires exhibit a very high roughness and high specific surface making of them a promising candidate for the development of SERS-based sensors.
UNDERSTANDING BOX WING AIRCRAFT: ESSENTIAL TECHNOLOGY TO IMPROVE SUSTAINABILITY IN THE AVIATION INDUSTRY
Authors: SOMERVILLE Alexander , MARINO Matthew , BAXTER Glenn , WILD Graham
Published: September 2016

This paper presents an introduction to box wing aircraft technology, and an overview of current research efforts in this important area. Box wing technology offers a means of significantly reducing aircraft fuel consumption and hence improving economic sustainability. The result of this reduced fuel burn is a reduction in aircraft emissions, which will improve the environmental sustainability of the global aviation industry. This is important, because the industry has set an ambitious goal of reducing the current carbon emissions by 50% before 2050, in the face of continued exponential growth in demand. The motivation of this work is to ensure that sufficient education is provided at all levels of the aviation industry, to keep people informed, and to help them make decisions. That is, there is confusion about the fundamental principles involved in the aerodynamic improvements associated with these innovative aircraft configurations. As such, this work presents box wing technology in the context of the fundamental operational aerodynamics associated with their implementation, giving an understanding of the performance benefits associated with them, in addition to the other practical benefits associated with box wing configurations.
SYNERGISTIC EFFECTS OF INFORMATION AND CYBERNETIC INTERACTION IN CIVIL AVIATION
Authors: DANIK Yuriy , HRYSCHUK Ruslan , GNATYUK Sergiy
Published: September 2016

Scientific research on information and cybernetic influence on citizens, society and the whole state is a hot topic of many famous worldwide scientific publications. These studies have become particularly relevant in critical spheres from the viewpoint of security. Civil aviation is one of the most critical spheres. Information and cybernetic actions in civil aviation have been studied separately to date. Known approaches did not allow considering the synergistic effects of information and cybernetic interaction. This factor has adversely affected preventive and countermeasures for minimizing the effects of information and cybernetic threats to aviation subjects. Taking this into account, in the paper, the essence of synergistic effects of information and cybernetic interaction on civil aviation are presented. Also, the methodology for the early detection, assessment and prediction of these effects was developed. The analysis revealed that the study of synergistic effects in civil aviation is an effective controller of nonlinear processes, which can occur as the result of information and cybernetic interaction.
EFFECT OF FINITE LARMOR RADIUS CORRECTIONS ON THE THERMAL INSTABILITY OF THERMALLY CONDUCTING VISCOUS PLASMA WITH HALL CURRENT AND ELECTRON INERTIA
Authors: Jain Shweta , Sharma Prerana , Kaothekar Sachin , Chhajlani R. K.
Published: September 2016

The thermal instability of an infinite homogeneous, thermally conducting, and rotating plasma, incorporating finite electrical resistivity, finite electron inertia, and an arbitrary radiative heat-loss function in the presence of finite Larmor radius corrections and Hall current, has been studied. Analysis has been made with the help of linearized magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) equations. A general dispersion relation is obtained using the normal mode analysis method, and the dispersion relation is discussed for longitudinal propagation and transverse propagation separately. The dispersion relation has been solved numerically to obtain the dependence of the growth rate on the various parameters involved. The conditions of modified thermal instability and stability are discussed in the different cases of interest.
NUMERICAL SIMULATIONS OF TURBULENT MOLECULAR CLOUDS REGULATED BY RADIATION FEEDBACK FORCES. I. STAR FORMATION RATE AND EFFICIENCY
Authors: Raskutti Sudhir , Ostriker Eve C. , Skinner M. Aaron
Published: September 2016

Radiation feedback from stellar clusters is expected to play a key role in setting the rate and efficiency of star formation in giant molecular clouds. To investigate how radiation forces influence realistic turbulent systems, we have conducted a series of numerical simulations employing the Hyperion radiation hydrodynamics solver, considering the regime that is optically thick to ultraviolet and optically thin to infrared radiation. Our model clouds cover initial surface densities between

, with varying initial turbulence. We follow them through turbulent, self-gravitating collapse, star cluster formation, and cloud dispersal by stellar radiation. All our models display a log-normal distribution of gas surface density Σ; for an initial virial parameter

, the log-normal standard deviation is

and the star formation rate coefficient

, both of which are sensitive to turbulence but not radiation feedback. The net star formation efficiency (SFE)

increases with

and decreases with

. We interpret these results via a simple conceptual framework, whereby steady star formation increases the radiation force, such that local gas patches at successively higher Σ become unbound. Based on this formalism (with fixed

), we provide an analytic upper bound on

, which is in good agreement with our numerical results. The final SFE depends on the distribution of Eddington ratios in the cloud and is strongly increased by the turbulent compression of gas.
RELEASE HISTORY AND TRANSPORT PARAMETERS OF RELATIVISTIC SOLAR ELECTRONS INFERRED FROM NEAR-THE-SUN IN SITU OBSERVATIONS
Authors: Agueda N. , Lario D.
Published: September 2016

We study four consecutive 300–800 keV electron events observed on 1980 May 28 by Helios-1, when the spacecraft was located at 0.31 au from the Sun. We use two different techniques to extract the release time history of electrons at the Sun: (1) a data-driven method based on the assumption that particles conserve their magnetic moment as they propagate between the Sun and the spacecraft and (2) an inversion method that utilizes particle transport simulation results. Both methods make use of the particle angular distributions measured relative to the local direction of the magnetic field. The general characteristics of the release time profiles obtained by these two techniques are similar, especially during their rising phases. We find indications that the strength of the interplanetary scattering varies with the size of the solar parent event, suggesting that scattering processes are not necessarily an inherent property of the medium but are related to the amount of released particles at the Sun. We use the inferred release profiles to compute the expected intensities at 1 au. In contrast to simultaneous near-Earth observations by the Interplanetary Monitoring Platform (IMP-8), our simulations predict the observation of four separate events at 1 au. Processes that could contribute to the observation of one single time-extended event at 1 au include (1) distinct magnetic connections of the spacecraft to the particle sources, (2) the spatio-temporal evolution of the particle sources, and (3) different particle transport conditions, including a variation of

with radial distance and/or heliolongitude, as well as the possibility that electrons reached IMP-8 by diffusion perpendicular to the interplanetary magnetic field.
Effect of Antiviral Therapy for HCV on Lipid Levels
Authors: Mauss Stefan , Berger Florian , Wehmeyer Malte H , Ingiliz Patrick , Hueppe Dietrich , Lutz Thomas , Simon Karl G , Schewe Knud , Rockstroh Juergen K , Baumgarten Axel , Christensen Stefan
Published: September 2016

Background

HCV has complex interactions with human lipid metabolism leading to down regulation of cholesterol levels. Interferon (IFN) therapy has been shown to decrease cholesterol even further. With the availability of second-generation direct-acting antiviral agents (DAA) the effect of suppressing and eliminating HCV on lipid metabolism warrants reevaluation.

Methods

Prospective German multicentre cohort on HCV- and HIV–HCV-infected patients treated with direct-antiviral agents (GECCO). Lipids were assessed at baseline, during and after therapy. Wilcoxon test corrected for multiple testing was used.

Results

For the analysis, 520 patients with chronic hepatitis C were available. Patients with chronic hepatitis C were treated as follows: sofosbuvir (SOF)/pegylated IFN (PEG-IFN)/ribavirin (RBV; HCV=34, HIV–HCV=36), SOF/ RBV (HCV=47, HIV–HCV=16), SOF/simeprevir (HCV=9, HCV–HIV=2), SOF/daclatasvir +/- RBV (HCV=27, HIV–HCV=47), SOF/ledipasvir +/- RBV (HCV=147, HCV–HIV=100) and ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir +/-dasabuvir +/- RBV (2D, HCV=2, HCV–HIV=6; 3D, HCV=39, HCV–HIV=8). On treatment there was a statistically significant increase in total cholesterol for any IFN-free DAA regimen, which was maintained after end of therapy. Changes of total cholesterol were driven by changes in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, whereas high-density lipoprotein cholesterol remained unchanged. In contrast, total cholesterol decreased on SOF/PEG-IFN/RBV and increased after end of therapy above baseline levels. Triglycerides increased during treatment with SOF/PEG-IFN/RBV, but not on DAA-only regimens.

Conclusions

Suppressing and eliminating HCV with IFN-free DAA regimens increased cholesterol levels, but had no effect on triglycerides. In contrast IFN-based therapy decreased cholesterol and increased triglycerides during treatment and led to increases in cholesterol after achieving sustained virological response.
Feed supplementation with avian Propionibacterium acidipropionici contributes to mucosa development in early stages of rearing broiler chickens
Authors: Martínez E. Argañaraz , Babot J.D. , Lorenzo-Pisarello M.J. , Apella M.C. , Chaia A. Perez
Published: September 2016

Different studies in animal rearing claim the probiotic potential of species of the genus Propionibacterium. The effects of strains of Propionibacterium acidipropionici isolated from poultry intestine on microbiota activity and intestinal mucosa development were investigated in the early stage of rearing chicks and the safety of the dose used was investigated. The strains P. acidipropionici LET105 and LET107, administered as monoculture to chicks from the 1st to 14th day of life in a daily dose of 106 cfu/ml administered in the drinking water resulted harmless. The animals arrived at the expected weight for age and no differences were observed with respect to the food intake and water consumption related to control without bacteria administration. The analysis of microbiota composition revealed the presence of propionibacteria at the middle and end of the trial only in treated groups. Normal development of lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria, and slow colonisation by Bacteroides at the 7th day of the study was observed in the same groups. Analysis of the organic acids concentrations in the caecal content of birds revealed higher lactic acid and lower butyric acid production. Lower short chain fatty acids total concentration than expected during treatment was related to a better development of the gut mucosa. Increase in length of villus-crypt units, goblet cells counts and neutral mucins production were evidenced. Higher mucus secretion produced by dietary supplementation with propionibacteria could provide increased protection against pathogens.
Inhibition of aflatoxin B1 production by verbascoside and other olive polyphenols
Authors: Bavaro S.L. , D'Antuono I. , Cozzi G. , Haidukowski M. , Cardinali A. , Logrieco A.F.
Published: September 2016

In this study, the effects of pure olive phenolic compounds and olive mill wastewater (OMWW) (after membrane filtration treatments) onAspergillus flavus growth and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) production, were investigated. Five OMWWs coming from Greek (Lianolia, Koroneiki andAsprolia) and Italian (Cellina di Nardò andCoratina) olive oil cultivars, opportunely filtered using a membrane system, were added at two concentrations (5 and 15%) to growth medium, in order to evaluate their effect onA. flavus growth and AFB1 production. The OMWW fractions treatment, after 6 days of incubation, did not inhibit the fungal growth rate, but at 15% concentration significantly reduced the AFB1 production (ranging from 88 to 100%). A similar approach was used for caffeic acid, hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol and verbascoside, the major pure phenolic compounds identified in OMWW fractions. They were evaluated at increasing doses (10, 50 and 100 µg/ml) following both AFB1 production and fungal growth. At the highest concentration (100 µg/ml) all pure compounds showed a reduction of about 99% of AFB1 production without any influence on fungal growth. This is the first time in which OMWWs and their main phenolics were used in the treatments against AFB1 production. The results obtained could provide possible new strategies for preventing AFB1 food contamination using olive polyphenols and OMWW fractions with anti-aflatoxigenic effect, and permitting to harness in a sustainable way an olive oil by-product.
Effects of Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitor on Stress-Shielded Tendons
Authors: Chen Kang , Li Ping , Zhao Huakun , Yan Xiaoyan , Ma Yanhong
Published: September 2016

Mechanical stress plays an important role in preserving the integrity of bone and ligament. Stress shielding reduces mechanical load on bone or tendons, resulting in tissue degradation. Previous studies showed that deterioration of the tendon structure during stress shielding is associated with elevated expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. This study examined the therapeutic potential of the TNF inhibitor etanercept in preventing morphologic deterioration of the Achilles tendon after stress shielding. Rats (N=48) were exposed to stress shielding of the left Achilles tendon and treated with etanercept or phosphate-buffered saline for 2 or 4 weeks. The right Achilles tendons were used as controls. After 2 or 4 weeks, stress-shielded tendons appeared less smooth than control tendons, and the stress-shielded tendons formed adhesions with surrounding tissues. Transmission electron microscopy also showed disarray of the collagen fibrils and a significant increase in the number of small-diameter collagen fibrils. These changes were associated with increased expression of TNF-α, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-13, MMP-3, collagen I, and collagen III. Treatment with 2 weeks of etanercept injection reduced morphologic changes in collagen organization and structure induced by stress shielding. Etanercept treatment also attenuated upregulation of MMP-13, MMP-3, and collagen III levels. However, no significant difference was observed between the etanercept group and the phosphate-buffered saline group after 4 weeks of treatment. The current findings show that TNF-α inhibition can protect against the early stages of tendon tissue remodeling induced by stress shielding, but additional interventions may be necessary to prevent tendon degeneration with long-term stress shielding. [Orthopedics.2017; 40(1):49–55.]
Endometrial stromal sarcoma: An aggressive uterine malignancy
Authors: Adiga Chaitra P , Gyanchandani Manju , Goolahally Lakshmikantha N , Itagi Rishikesh M , Kalenahalli Kiran V
Published: September 2016

Endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS) is an aggressive uterine sarcoma.  We report a case of a large endometrial stromal sarcoma in a 42 year nulliparous woman with chronic kidney disease presenting with acute urinary retention and irregular per vaginal bleeding. Ultrasound and Doppler imaging revealed a heterogeneous mass in the endometrial cavity with internal vascularity. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a large lobulated mass in the endometrial cavity extending into the vagina, causing local mass effect. Multiple linear hypointense bands on magnetic resonance T2 weighted (T2wt) images were characteristic of ESS. MRI is a very useful imaging modality in characterizing the lesion and also for the staging. It is necessary to distinguish these tumors from benign as well as other uterine malignancies for better management. We also review relevant literature discussing imaging findings of ESS.
Construction of Electronic Examination and Education Platform for Financial Management
Authors: Yu Ying
Published: September 2016

For existing shortcomings in the application of traditional and paperless examination systems in teaching financial management, this study proposed a scheme to construct electronic examination and education platform for the said course. Electronic examination system, which meets the needs of students, teachers, and administrators, has been achieved by analyzing the demand for electronic examination of financial management. This study introduced the design of the electronic examination system and the implementation method of main function modules thoroughly; analyzed the difficulties in module development process; and finally proposed the thought of further expansion and improvement. This research indicates that electronic examination system can objectively and fairly reflect the real level of students, improve examination efficiency, and promote finance teaching efficiency and effect well.
A New Video Editing Technology in Practical Teaching for Animation Specialty
Authors: Shen Yufeng
Published: September 2016

The animation practical teaching system was designed by using the multimedia interaction technology – generation of animation with pictures as well as video stitching and synthesis technology. Besides, the teaching effect of the system was analyzed through an experiment and questionnaire. As shown in the result of analysis, the multimedia interaction teaching system, which has attained a good effect in practical teaching for animation specialty, is very popular with the vast students. In addition, the system enhances students’ learning interest and efficiency through an intelligent way, helps students to get rid of the space-time restriction and increases students’ time in autonomous learning. This paper is in order to improve the effect of the animation professional practice teaching.
Return to The Source?
Authors: Matolino Bernard
Published: September 2016

Every human society has a history that it takes pride in. In times of despair there could be invocation or calls to return to that history either as an informant of correct practice or as an inspiration of what current practice should be. Hence some African scholars and politicians have made calls that seek to return to that source. At least three problems pose some significant threat to the project of the return to the source. Firstly, there is a problem of interpreting what the exact nature of that traditional set up was, secondly there is a problem of working out how the traditional mode can fit into the modern, and thirdly there is the problem of the possibility that different sources existed in that pristine past. Without an adequate response to these threats, the return may not be as smooth as its advocates have thought it to be.
Towards a Regional Policy and Legal Instrument for the Protection of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Southern Africa
Authors: Saurombe Amos
Published: September 2016

This study was conceived as a result of growing frustration at the slow pace of development for a harmonised policy and legal instrument for the protection of IKS in SADC. The problems related to the protection of IKS will remain unless there is a clear policy and legal basis to address it. SADC consists of 15 countries whose main mandate is to harmonise their social, political and economic policies for the benefit of the citizens of Southern Africa. This chapter argues that the exercise of harmonisation is long overdue. Member states like South Africa have proven that if there is political will on the part of member states, the protection of IKS is possible through the development of relevant policies and legal instruments. This study was done through a desktop analysis of Treaty provisions, policy documents and country specific legislation. The main findings of the study indicated that the lack of protection of IKS is a major challenge that requires a regional approach. These findings led to the proposition for an urgent harmonised regional approach to the protection of IKS in SADC.
Efficacy of Culture Houses and Centres in the Acquisition, Preservation, and Dissemination of Indigenous Knowledge in Zimbabwe
Authors: Chigwada Josiline Phiri , Chiparausha Blessing
Published: September 2016

This chapter documents the role played by culture centres and houses in the acquisition, preservation and dissemination of indigenous knowledge (IK) in a digital era in Zimbabwe. It states the ethical issues involved when acquiring, preserving and disseminating IK in the digital era. A history of culture houses and centres was studied and a literature review of the role of culture centres was done. In Zimbabwe, it was noted that culture houses and centres do not have a web presence. However, there are challenges that are met by information specialists working in these culture houses and centres in the process of managing IK. These challenges are part of the ethical issues that should be considered in the production, access and use of IK. Recommendations have been put forward that would help culture houses and centres in their bid to manage IK in the digital era.