bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Funcionalidad familiar en pacientes con tuberculosis pulmonar en áreas urbanas de Los Olivos - Lima
Authors: Robles Hurtado Isabel Jackelin , Matta Solís Hernán , Pérez Siguas Rosa Eva , Ayma Ferdinan Carlos
Published: May 2017

Objetivos: Determinar la funcionalidad familiar en pacientes con tuberculosis pulmonar en áreas urbanas de Los Olivos - Lima. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y de corte transversal. Participaron 30 pacientes pertenecientes al programa de Prevención y Control de Tuberculosis en dos centros de salud del distrito de Los Olivos. Se aplicó el cuestionario de Funcionalidad familiar APGAR. La clasificación define a la normo funcionalidad entre los puntajes de 18 a 20, y la disfunción familiar de 17 a menos; dividiendo el último en disfunción familiar leve (14 a 17), disfunción familiar moderada (10 a 13) y disfunción familiar severa (menores a 9 puntos). Resultados: La edad promedio fue de 32 años, 10 son varones y 20 mujeres. Se obtuvo que el 60 % de los pacientes encuestados presentan disfunción familiar, de los cuales la disfunción leve corresponde al 26,7 %, la disfunción moderada al 30 % y la disfunción severa al 3,3 %. Conclusiones: Cuando aparece una enfermedad infecto contagiosa como la tuberculosis se rompe la homeostasis familiar y daña el funcionamiento familiar. La funcionalidad de la familia incluye en la adherencia, tratamiento y asistencia al centro de salud.
La comprensión de las metáforas en niños de primaria
Authors: Calderón Guerrero Gabriela , Maldonado Ahumada Cynthia , Vernon Sofía
Published: May 2017

El objetivo de este artículo es describir el desarrollo de la comprensión de las metáforas, así como el tipo de relaciones parte-todo que son capaces de establecer los niños al resolver adivinanzas. Los participantes de la investigación fueron 30 estudiantes de una escuela primaria federal del estado de Querétaro (México): 10 estudiantes de segundo, 10 de cuarto y 10 de sexto grado. Se les pidió responder a cuatro adivinanzas metafóricas y explicar qué información habían considerado para llegar a sus respuestas. Los resultados muestran que: a) la comprensión de las metáforas presenta un patrón evolutivo ascendente en relación al grado escolar y, b) los participantes de los grados superiores tienden a construir relaciones parte-todo más integradoras y coherentes que los estudiantes de los grados inferiores, lo que les permite comprender mejor las metáforas de las adivinanzas. Los resultados obtenidos confirman los hallazgos de Calderón (2012) y Calderón, Vernon y Carrillo (2012).
Autonomía escolar y cambio educativo, consideraciones desde la implementación de PEC-FIDE
Authors: Reyes Juárez Alejandro
Published: May 2017

La SEP implementó un proyecto piloto denominado Programa de Fortalecimiento e Inversión Directa a las Escuelas (PEC‐FIDE), cuyos propósitos consideraban: atender el problema de inequidad en el logro educativo y ofrecer una respuesta a las barreras en el acceso al financiamiento para comunidades vulnerables. El presente artículo es un ejercicio de análisis de la implementación de un programa educativo específico en el marco de un proceso de reforma que se desarrolla en México, es también una oportunidad para reflexionar en torno a temas como la autonomía escolar y el fortalecimiento de las competencias de gestión. La base es un estudio exploratorio que tuvo en algunos actores educativos (participantes en el PEC‐FIDE) la principal fuente de información. Más que los recursos financieros distribuidos en las escuelas son las maneras en las que los recursos se aprovechan lo que abre posibilidades de transformación en algunas prácticas educativas y alternativas para atender las problemáticas particulares de las comunidades educativas.
Assessing EFL university students' writing: A study of score reliability
Authors: González Elsa Fernanda , Trejo Nelly Paulina , Roux Ruth
Published: May 2017

The assessment of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) writing is a complex activity that is subject to human judgment, which makes it difficult to achieve a fair, accurate and reliable assessment of student writing (Pearson, 2004: 117; Hamp-Lyons, 2003). This study reports on the variability that exists between the analytical grades that 11 Mexican EFL university teachers awarded to five writing samples. It describes the raters’ views on writing assessment and their use of analytical scoring rubrics. Data obtained from the grades awarded to each paper, and a background questionnaire, suggested that great variability was found between grades, and raters differed in their levels of leniency and severity, suggesting that having similar backgrounds and using the same rubric are not enough to ensure rater reliability. Participants’ perceptions were found to be similar in terms of the use of analytical rubrics.
Selección de escuelas de alta y baja eficacia en Baja California (México)
Authors: Martínez Abad Fernando , Lizasoain Hernández Luis , Castro Morera María , Joaristi Olariaga Luis María
Published: May 2017

El presente estudio planteó la identificación y selección de escuelas de Baja California con alta y baja eficacia a partir de los puntajes de ENLACE y pruebas de contexto. Se obtuvo una muestra representativa de 85 escuelas y alrededor de 7000 estudiantes en los años 2010 y 2011, y se aplicaron modelos jerárquicos lineales para el cálculo de las puntuaciones residuales en el nivel de centro. Tras el ajuste de los 8 modelos finales, que aíslan el efecto de las variables contextuales significativas, se seleccionan, bajo criterios estadísticos, 15 centros con alto y bajo residuo. Los resultados muestran que las distribuciones de las escuelas seleccionadas son similares en ambos casos a la población de referencia. Los resultados afirman la robustez del procedimiento de selección implementado y destacan la importancia del mismo para la detección de buenas prácticas en las escuelas de alta eficacia.
“They can learn to say my name”: Redistributing Responsibility for Integrating Immigrants to Canada
Authors: Pennesi Karen
Published: May 2017

Newcomers to Canada whose names index identities other than “white” and “English” face pressure to alter their names to facilitate integration. Some immigrants oppose the forces of conformity and refuse to assimilate their names. In interviews, they explain this stance using discourses of agency centring on a belief in true names, a moral obligation to get names right, and a need for a strong self. Focusing on ideologies of identity and language in their meta-agentive discourses, I argue that the act of immigrants keeping their ethnic names is a political move to redistribute responsibility for the integration of newcomers into the host society.
Cairn, borne ou belvédère ? Quand le naturalisme et l'analogisme négocient la limite entre espace cultivé et forêt au Maroc
Authors: Simenel Romain , Aderghal Mohammed , Sabir Mohamed , Auclair Laurent
Published: May 2017

À partir des usages et représentations que les services forestiers et les communautés du Maroc rural se font du cairn, monticule rocheux servant de borne, le propos de cet article est de montrer comment l'ontologie naturaliste véhiculée par le code forestier s'oppose à l'ontologie analogique locale sur le statut à donner à la frontière entre espace cultivé et forêt. Pour le code forestier, le cairn se résume strictement à une borne de cadastre fidèle à une optique de topographe dans le cadre d'une organisation technocratique de l'espace. L'usage que les communautés du Maroc rural se font des cairns est bien plus polyvoque. Si délimiter est une des fonctions attribuées au cairn, il est aussi perçu comme une borne d'étape de saint, comme un point de rencontre entre le monde des humains (l'espace cultivé) et celui des génies (la forêt), comme un belvédère et comme un lieu rituel. Alors que le code forestier se limite à voir dans le cairn un outil pour transposer une rationalité de droits dans le territoire, les communautés l'inscrivent dans une sémiotique de l'espace. Malgré ces écarts de points de vue, dans la pratique les cairns de domanialisation de la forêt s'avèrent être des points de négociation des ontologies résultant des interactions complexes entre forestiers et paysans. Dans la région d'Essaouira, l'appropriation symbolique de l'intervention du forestier par les communautés berbérophones se réalise par l'investissement rituel du bornage domanial par les femmes. Au final, l'article tentera de démontrer que la négociation des ontologies autour du cairn a pour effet l'hybridation des modalités de gestion forestière, et donc des politiques publiques.
Living Paradox in Riverine Bangladesh: Whiteheadian Perspectives on Ganga Devi and Khwaja Khijir
Authors: Khan Naveeda
Published: May 2017

We begin with the words of rural and riverine women from Bangladesh recalling the events of their children's deaths by drowning. These events are cast as the work of supernatural beings, specifically Ganga Devi and Khwaja Khijir, who compel the mothers into forgetfulness and entice the children to the water. Is this a disavowal of loss and responsibility? This article considers that the women, specifically those from northern Bangladesh, assert not only their understanding of the losses that they have suffered but also their changing relationship to the river and its changing nature through their evocations of mythological figures. Alongside the many experiences of the river, the article takes note of its experience as paradoxical, with paradoxicality serving as the occasion for the coming together of the mythological, the material, and the social. The article draws upon Alfred North Whitehead to interrelate the strata of myths and their permutations, with the women's experiences of the river, and the river as a physical entity, allowing us to explore how the women's expressions portend the changing climate.
Water Futures: Contention in the Construction of Productive Infrastructure in the Peruvian Highlands
Authors: Rasmussen Mattias Borg
Published: May 2017

This article explores the potential construction of a water reservoir in Peru's Cordillera Blanca. Proposed by a peasant group, it would have served important productive purposes but have its intake within the perimeter of a national park. Thus, different notions about water and landscape emerge in the encounters between place-based practices and state-sponsored conservation efforts. Empirically tracing the efforts to construct the reservoir, the analytical focus of the article is on how different ways of knowing water within a particular landscape conjure and collide in the process. It is argued that the movement of water extends itself beyond the physical properties of the reservoir and irrigation channels as these are produced in encounters between different notions of the role of water in the landscape.
Mettre en œuvre une gouvernance démocratique suite à une reprise en SCOP
Authors: Bargues Émilie , Hollandts Xavier , Valiorgue Bertrand
Published: May 2017

Cet article s’intéresse à la mise en place d’une gouvernance démocratique suite au rachat d’une entreprise par ses salariés sous la forme d’une société coopérative et participative. Les auteurs montrent que trois catégories de travail institutionnel sont nécessaires pour réussir cette transition : 1) transformer l’identité des salariés afin qu’ils se projettent en tant que sociétaires et propriétaires, 2) maintenir la légitimité de l’entreprise dans son champ organisationnel et 3) développer de nouvelles pratiques et outils de gestion démocratiques. Ils contribuent par cette recherche à enrichir la compréhension des formes démocratiques de gouvernance des entreprises.
Anterior cage dislodgement in posterior lumbar interbody fusion: a review of 12 patients
Authors: Murase Shuhei , Oshima Yasushi , Takeshita Yujiro , Miyoshi Kota , Soma Kazuhito , Kawamura Naohiro , Kunogi Junichi , Yamazaki Takashi , Ariyoshi Dai , Sano Shigeo , Inanami Hirohiko , Takeshita Katsushi , Tanaka Sakae
Published: May 2017

OBJECTIVE

Interbody fusion cages are widely used to achieve initial fixation and secure spinal fusion; however, there are certain technique-related complications. Although anterior cage dislodgement can cause major vascular injury, the incidence is extremely rare. Here, the authors performed a review of anterior cage dislodgement following posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) surgery.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed the cases of 4625 patients who had undergone PLIF at 6 institutions between December 2007 and March 2015. They investigated the incidence and causes of surgery-related anterior cage dislodgement, salvage mechanisms, and postoperative courses.

RESULTS

Anterior cage dislodgement occurred in 12 cases (0.26%), all of which were caused by technical errors. In 9 cases, excessive cage impaction resulted in dislodgement. In 2 cases, when the cage on the ipsilateral side was inserted, it interacted and pushed out the other cage on the opposite side. In 1 case, the cage was positioned in an extreme lateral and anterior part of the intervertebral disc space, and it postoperatively dislodged. In 3 cases, the cage was removed in the same operative field. In the remaining 9 cases, CT angiography was performed postoperatively to assess the relationship between the dislodged cage and large vessels. Dislodged cages were conservatively observed in 2 cases. In 7 cases, the cage was removed because it was touching or compressing large vessels, and an additional anterior approach was selected. In 2 patients, there was significant bleeding from an injured inferior vena cava. There were no further complications or sequelae associated with the dislodged cages during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

Although rare, iatrogenic anterior cage dislodgement following a PLIF can occur. The authors found that technical errors made by experienced spine surgeons were the main causes of this complication. To prevent dislodgement, the surgeon should be cautious when inserting the cage, avoiding excessive cage impaction and ensuring cage control. Once dislodgement occurs, the surgeons must immediately address this difficult complication. First, the possibility of a large vessel injury should be considered. If the patient’s vital signs are stable, the surgeon should continue with the surgery without cage removal and perform CT angiography postoperatively to assess the cage location. Blind maneuvers should be avoided when the surgical site cannot be clearly viewed. When the cage compresses or touches the aortic artery or vena cava, it is better to remove the cage to avoid late-onset injury to major vessels. When the cage does not compress or touch vessels, its removal is controversial. The risk factors associated with performing another surgery should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Pediatric meningiomas: 65-year experience at a single institution
Authors: Grossbach Andrew J. , Mahaney Kelly B. , Menezes Arnold H.
Published: May 2017

OBJECTIVE

Meningiomas are relatively common, typically benign neoplasms in adults; however, they are relatively rare in the pediatric population. Pediatric meningiomas behave very differently from their adult counterparts, tending to have more malignant histological subtypes and recur more frequently. The authors of this paper investigate the risk factors, pathological subtypes, and recurrence rates of pediatric meningiomas.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted at the University of Iowa to identify patients 20 years old and younger with meningiomas in the period from 1948 to 2015.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven meningiomas in 39 patients were identified. Eight patients had neurofibromatosis, 2 had a family history of meningioma, and 3 had prior radiation exposure. Twelve (31%) of the 39 patients had WHO Grade II or III lesions, and 15 (38%) had recurrent lesions after resection.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric meningiomas should be considered for early treatment and diligent follow-up.
Intake Procedures in Colorado Animal Shelters
Authors: Fagre Anna , Olea-Popelka Francisco , Ruch-Gallie Rebecca
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this study was to describe intake procedures in Colorado animal shelters, compare infectious disease screening protocols in shelters taking in animals from out-of-state to shelters only accepting animals from Colorado, and analyze perceived risk of diseases in Colorado by responding shelter personnel. A questionnaire was designed and administered to shelter personnel across the state of Colorado via the survey tool SurveyMonkey© (http://www.surveymonkey.com) or a mailed hard copy. Information collected concerned general shelter characteristics and intake procedures performed in various circumstances as reported by responding shelter personnel. Only 12.5% (5/40) of respondents reported providing core vaccines to all animals upon intake at their shelter, with young age (65.0%; 26/40), pregnancy (55.0%; 22/40), and mild existing illness (40.0%; 16/40) being cited as the top reasons for not administering core vaccines. A significantly larger proportion of shelters taking animals in from around the U.S. screened for Dirofilaria immitis than shelters taking in animals only from within the state of Colorado (p = 0.001), though a majority of respondents considered cats and dogs to be at risk of heartworm and endoparasitic infection in the state of Colorado. Based on the results of this questionnaire, relatively few shelters test dogs and cats for infectious diseases and some of those utilize tests for diagnostic purposes rather than routine screening. Additionally, vaccination protocols in several shelters are not consistent with The Association of Shelter Veterinarians Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters. This study provides important information on intake procedures in Colorado animal shelters and highlights the importance of educating shelter staff on varying risk of infection based on the history and origin of the animal being taken in.
Phenolic Compositions and Antioxidant Properties in Bark, Flower, Inner Skin, Kernel and Leaf Extracts of Castanea crenata Sieb. et Zucc
Authors: Tuyen Phung , Xuan Tran , Khang Do , Ahmad Ateeque , Quan Nguyen , Tu Anh Truong , Anh La , Minh Truong
Published: May 2017

In this study, different plant parts (barks, flowers, inner skins, kernels and leaves) of Castanea crenata (Japanese chestnut) were analyzed for total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin contents. Antioxidant properties were evaluated by using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS), reducing power, and β-carotene bleaching methods. The highest total phenolic and tannin contents were found in the inner skins (1034 ± 7.21 mg gallic acid equivalent/g extract and 253.89 ± 5.59 mg catechin equivalent/g extract, respectively). The maximum total flavonoid content was observed in the flowers (147.41 ± 1.61 mg rutin equivalent/g extract). The inner skins showed the strongest antioxidant activities in all evaluated assays. Thirteen phenolic acids and eight flavonoids were detected and quantified for the first time. Major phenolic acids were gallic, ellagic, sinapic, and p-coumaric acids, while the principal flavonoids were myricetin and isoquercitrin. The inner skin extract was further fractionated by column chromatography to yield four fractions, of which fraction F3 exhibited the most remarkable DPPH scavenging capacity. These results suggest that C. crenata provides promising antioxidant capacities, and is a potential natural preservative agent in food and pharmaceutical industries.
A Novel Technique for Designing High Power Semiconductor Optical Amplifier (SOA)-Based Tunable Fiber Compound-Ring Lasers Using Low Power Optical Components
Authors: Ummy Muhammad , Bikorimana Simeon , Dorsinville Roger
Published: May 2017

A simple, stable and inexpensive dual-output port widely tunable semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA)-based fiber compound-ring laser structure is demonstrated. This unique nested ring cavity enables high optical power to split into different branches where amplification and wavelength selection are achieved by using low-power SOAs and a tunable filter. Furthermore, two Sagnac loop mirrors, which are spliced at the two ends of the compound-ring cavity not only serve as variable reflectors but also channel the optical energy back to the same port without using any high optical power combiner. We propose and discuss how the demonstrated fiber compound-ring laser structure can be extended in order to achieve a high power fiber laser source by using low power optical components, such as N × N couplers and (N > 1) number of SOAs. A coherent beam-combining efficiency of over 98% for two parallel nested fiber ring resonators is achieved over the C-band tuning range of 30 nm. Optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) of +45 dB, and optical power fluctuation of less than ±0.02 dB are measured over three hours at room temperature.
Erratum: Irvine, G.W.; Tan, S.N.; Stillman, M.J. A Simple Metallothionein-Based Biosensor for Enhanced Detection of Arsenic and Mercury. Biosensors 2017, 7, 14
Authors:   Biosensors Editorial Office
Published: May 2017

n/a
HGF/Met Signaling in Cancer Invasion: The Impact on Cytoskeleton Remodeling
Authors: Xiang Chuan , Chen Junxia , Fu Panfeng
Published: May 2017

The invasion of cancer cells into surrounding tissue and the vasculature is essential for tumor metastasis. Increasing evidence indicates that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) induces cancer cell migration and invasion. A broad spectrum of mechanisms underlies cancer cell migration and invasion. Cytoskeletal reorganization is of central importance in the development of the phenotype of cancer cells with invasive behavior. Through their roles in cell mechanics, intracellular trafficking, and signaling, cytoskeleton proteins participate in all essential events leading to cell migration. HGF has been involved in cytoskeleton assembly and reorganization, and its role in regulating cytoskeleton dynamics is still expanding. This review summarizes our current understanding of the role of HGF in regulating cytoskeleton remodeling, distribution, and interactions.
Structure Determination and Luminescent Property Studies of the Single Crystal Na3Sm(BO3)2
Authors: Zhao Dan , Ma Fa-Xue , Nie Cong-Kui , Wang Jian , Zhang Lei , Fan Yunchang
Published: May 2017

Sodium samarium borate Na3Sm(BO3)2, was prepared by a flux method and structurally characterized by single-crystal structure analysis for the first time. The results show that it crystallizes in the monoclinic system P21/n, with a = 6.5667(3) Å, b = 8.7675(4) Å, c = 10.1850(5), β = 90.86°, V = 586.32(5) Å3 and Z = 4. The structure contains NaO7, NaO6, NaO5, SmO8, and BO3 units, which are interconnected via corner- or edge-sharing O atoms into a three-dimensional structure. The excitation spectra, emission spectra, decay time, and Commission International de l’Éclairage (CIE) chromaticity index of Na3Sm(BO3)2 were studied. Under near light excitation (406 nm), the powdered Na3Sm(BO3)2 shows the orange-red emission, which originates from the 4G5/2→6H9/2 and 4G5/2→6H7/2 transformation of Sm3+ ion.
Case Study on the Socio-Economic Benefit of Allowing Active Power Curtailment to Postpone Grid Upgrades
Authors: Kolstad Magne , Wolfgang Ove , Josefsen Rolf
Published: May 2017

The penetration of distributed generation is rapidly increasing in the power system. Traditionally, a fit-and-forget approach has been applied for grid integration of distributed generation, by investing in a grid capacity that can deal with worst-case situations. However, there is now increasing interest for the possible cost savings that can be achieved through more active network management. This paper presents a case study on the possible socio-economic benefit of postponing a grid upgrade in an area of surplus generation. Two alternatives for grid integration of an 8 MW run-on-river hydro power plant in the southern part of Norway are investigated: (i) grid upgrade; and (ii) active power curtailment whenever needed to avoid network congestion. This study shows that cost savings corresponding to 13% of the investment cost for the grid upgrade is possible through active power curtailment.
Geochemistry of Petroleum Gases and Liquids from the Inhassoro, Pande and Temane Fields Onshore Mozambique
Authors: Loegering Markus , Milkov Alexei
Published: May 2017

Although the first petroleum fields in the Mozambique basin were discovered more than 60 years ago, the composition and origin of petroleum fluids in this basin are largely unknown. We studied the geochemical composition of petroleum gases and liquids from the Inhassoro, Pande and Temane fields located onshore Mozambique. The gases are relatively dry (methane-dominated, average C1/(C1–C5) ratio is ~0.96), have pure thermogenic origin, originate predominantly from marine shale source organofacies and show no evidence of primary microbial gas or biodegradation. Most condensates have relatively high API gravity up to 76 degrees, are very mature and contain only traces of biomarkers, likely from migration contamination. However, biomarkers in the light oil from the Inhassoro field indicate that the oil derived from sub-oxic marine shales of the Late Cretaceous age. We suggest that the Aptian-Coniacian Domo Shale is the likely source rock for petroleum gases and liquids in the studied fields. Our geochemical data, including gas isotopes, as well as source-specific and age-specific biomarkers, exclude coals in the Late Carboniferous—Early Jurassic Karoo Supergroup as effective source rocks for the studied fields.
Sustainable Methods for Decontamination of Microcystin in Water Using Cold Plasma and UV with Reusable TiO2 Nanoparticle Coating
Authors: Jiang Xuewen , Lee Seungjun , Mok Chulkyoon , Lee Jiyoung
Published: May 2017

Microcystins (MCs) are a family of cyanotoxins and pose detrimental effects on human, animal, and ecological health. Conventional water treatment processes have limited success in removing MCs without producing harmful byproducts. Therefore, there is an urgent need for cost-effective and environmentally-friendly methods for treating MCs. The objective of this study was to develop sustainable and non-chemical-based methods for controlling MCs, such as using cold plasma and ultra violet (UV) light with titanium dioxide (TiO2) coating, which can be applied for diverse scale and settings. MCs, extracted from Microcystis aeruginosa, were treated with cold plasma or UV at irradiance of 1470 μW/cm2 (high) or 180 μW/cm2 (low). To assess synergistic effects, the outside of the UV treatment chamber was coated with nanoparticles (TiO2) prior to irradiation, which can be reused for a long time. The degradation efficiency of UV was enhanced by the reusable TiO2 coating at lower irradiance (70.41% [UV] vs. 79.61% [UV+TiO2], 120 min), but no significant difference was observed at higher irradiance. Cold plasma removed MCs rapidly under experimental conditions (92%, 120 min), indicating that it is a promising candidate for controlling MCs in water without generating harmful disinfection byproducts. It can be also easily and practically used in household settings during emergency situations.
Prevalence of Rotavirus Genogroup A and Norovirus Genogroup II in Bassaseachic Falls National Park Surface Waters in Chihuahua, Mexico
Authors: Delgado-Gardea Ma. , Tamez-Guerra Patricia , Gomez-Flores Ricardo , Mendieta-Mendoza Aurora , Zavala-Díaz de la Serna Francisco , Contreras-Cordero Juan , Erosa-de la Vega Gilberto , Pérez-Recoder María , Sánchez-Ramírez Blanca , González-Horta Carmen , Infante-Ramírez Rocío
Published: May 2017

In areas lacking potable water treatment, drinking contaminated water may represent a public health threat. In addition to enteropathogenic bacteria and parasites, fecal contamination in water environments is associated with the transmission of enteric viruses and other causal agents of infectious disease. Rotavirus and norovirus are the main enteric viral agents responsible for diarrheic outbreaks. The aim of the present study was to detect seasonal variation of rotavirus and norovirus in the surface water at Bassaseachic Falls National Park during 2013. Rivers and streams within and nearby this park were sampled once in each season during 2013. Viral concentration was carried out by a handmade filtration equipment, using a commercial electropositive membrane coupled with the virus absortion elution technique (VIRADEL©). Detection of rotavirus and norovirus was performed by SYBR Green reverse transcription-real time polymerase chain reaction (SYBR GREEN© RT-qPCR) analyses. Norovirus genogroup II was detected in samples collected in June and October 2013. In the case of rotavirus, genogroup A was detected in March and June. The presence of rotavirus and norovirus was related to viral acute diarrhea in children less than five years of age, who were inhabiting the sampled areas. This may indicates that the contaminated water was potentially a risk factor for regional diarrheic outbreaks.
Effects of Regular Classes in Outdoor Education Settings: A Systematic Review on Students’ Learning, Social and Health Dimensions
Authors: Becker Christoph , Lauterbach Gabriele , Spengler Sarah , Dettweiler Ulrich , Mess Filip
Published: May 2017

Background: Participants in Outdoor Education Programmes (OEPs) presumably benefit from these programmes in terms of their social and personal development, academic achievement and physical activity (PA). The aim of this systematic review was to identify studies about regular compulsory school- and curriculum-based OEPs, to categorise and evaluate reported outcomes, to assess the methodological quality, and to discuss possible benefits for students. Methods: We searched online databases to identify English- and German-language peer-reviewed journal articles that reported any outcomes on a student level. Two independent reviewers screened studies identified for eligibility and assessed the methodological quality. Results: Thirteen studies were included for analysis. Most studies used a case-study design, the average number of participants was moderate (mean valued (M) = 62.17; standard deviation (SD) = 64.12), and the methodological quality was moderate on average for qualitative studies (M = 0.52; SD = 0.11), and low on average for quantitative studies (M = 0.18; SD = 0.42). Eight studies described outcomes in terms of social dimensions, seven studies in learning dimensions and four studies were subsumed under additional outcomes, i.e., PA and health. Eleven studies reported positive, one study positive as well as negative, and one study reported negative effects. PA and mental health as outcomes were underrepresented. Conclusion: Tendencies were detected that regular compulsory school- and curriculum-based OEPs can promote students in respect of social, academic, physical and psychological dimensions. Very little is known concerning students’ PA or mental health. We recommend conducting more quasi-experimental design and longitudinal studies with a greater number of participants, and a high methodological quality to further investigate these tendencies.
Dietary Patterns and Obesity among Chinese Adults: Results from a Household-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zou Yan , Zhang Ronghua , Xia Shichang , Huang Lichun , Meng Jia , Fang Yueqiang , Ding Gangqiang
Published: May 2017

The key dietary pattern other than dietary factors influencing obesity has been reported by several large epidemiological studies. This study was carried out between 2010 and 2012 including 1613 adult residents in Zhejiang Province. Dietary patterns were extracted by factor analysis based on 24-h dietary recall. Associations with dietary patterns and obesity were examined and adjusted for age and gender by logistic regression. Five dietary patterns were identified by factor analysis with their eigenvalues greater than 1: ‘cereal, animal, and plant food’, ‘high protein food’, ‘plant food’, ‘poultry’, and ‘beverage’. After adjustment for age and gender, the ‘cereal, animal, and plant food’ and ‘beverage’ pattern was associated with obesity (OR = 2.924, 3.257; 95% CI = 1.147–7.463, 1.372–7.692). In conclusion, ‘cereal, animal, and plant food’ and ‘beverage’ dietary patterns may be associated with increased risk of obesity. ‘Cereal, animal, and plant food’ dietary patterns may be associated with increased risk of obesity resulting from increased total energy intake by increased protein and fat intake; while a ‘beverage’ dietary pattern may be associated with increased risk of obesity resulting from increased total energy intake by increased carbohydrate intake. The findings are valuable in targeting future nutrition education.
Effects of Gelatin Hydrogel Containing Anti-Transforming Growth Factor-β Antibody in a Canine Filtration Surgery Model
Authors: Maeda Michiko , Kojima Shota , Sugiyama Tetsuya , Jin Denan , Takai Shinji , Oku Hidehiro , Kohmoto Ryohsuke , Ueki Mari , Ikeda Tsunehiko
Published: May 2017

In this present study, we investigated the effect of a controlled release of anti-transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) antibody on intraocular pressure (IOP), bleb formation, and conjunctival scarring in a canine glaucoma filtration surgery model using gelatin hydrogel (GH). Glaucoma surgery models were made in 14 eyes of 14 beagles and divided into the following two groups: (1) subconjunctival implantation of anti-TGF-β antibody-loaded GH (GH-TGF-β group, n = 7), and (2) subconjunctival implantation of GH alone (GH group, n = 7). IOP and bleb features were then assessed in each eye at 2- and 4-weeks postoperative, followed by histological evaluation. We found that IOP was significantly reduced at 4-weeks postoperative in the two groups (p < 0.05) and that IOP in the GH-TGF-β-group eyes was significantly lower than that in the GH-group eyes (p = 0.006). In addition, the bleb score at 4-weeks postoperative was significantly higher in the GH-TGF-β group than in the GH group (p < 0.05), and the densities of fibroblasts, proliferative-cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-positive cells, mast cells, and TGF-β-positive cells were significantly lower in the GH-TGF-β group than in the GH group. The findings of this study suggest that, compared with the GH-group eyes, implantation of anti-TGF-β antibody-loaded GH maintains IOP reduction and bleb formation by suppressing conjunctival scarring due to the proliferation of fibroblasts for a longer time period via a sustained release of anti-TGF-β antibody from GH.
AF1q Mediates Tumor Progression in Colorectal Cancer by Regulating AKT Signaling
Authors: Hu Jingwei , Li Guodong , Liu Liang , Wang Yatao , Li Xiaolan , Gong Jianping
Published: May 2017

The up-regulation of ALL1-fused gene from chromosome 1q (AF1q) is commonly seen in aggressive hematologic malignancies as well as in several solid tumor tissues. However, its expression and intrinsic function in human colorectal cancer (CRC) remains largely undefined. To explore the role of AF1q in human CRC progression, AF1q expression was analyzed in human CRC tissue samples and CRC cell lines. Clinical specimens revealed that AF1q was up-regulated in human CRC tissues, and that this up-regulation was associated with tumor metastasis and late tumor, lymph node, metastasis (TNM) stage. AF1q knockdown by shRNA inhibited tumor cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in vitro, as well as tumorigenesis and liver metastasis in vivo, whereas these effects were reversed following AF1q overexpression. These AF1q-mediated effects were modulated by the protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway, and inhibition of AKT signaling attenuated AF1q-induced tumor promotion. Thus, AF1q contributes to CRC tumorigenesis and progression through the activation of the AKT signaling pathway. AF1q might therefore serve as a promising new target in the treatment of CRC.
Calcium Silicate/Chitosan-Coated Electrospun Poly (Lactic Acid) Fibers for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Su Chu-Jung , Tu Ming-Gene , Wei Li-Ju , Hsu Tuan-Ti , Kao Chia-Tze , Chen Tsui-Han , Huang Tsui-Hsien
Published: May 2017

Electrospinning technology allows fabrication of nano- or microfibrous fibers with inorganic and organic matrix and it is widely applied in bone tissue engineering as it allows precise control over the shapes and structures of the fibers. Natural bone has an ordered composition of organic fibers with dispersion of inorganic apatite among them. In this study, poly (lactic acid) (PLA) mats were fabricated with electrospinning and coated with chitosan (CH)/calcium silicate (CS) mixer. The microstructure, chemical component, and contact angle of CS/CH-PLA composites were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In vitro, various CS/CH-coated PLA mats increased the formation of hydroxyapatite on the specimens’ surface when soaked in cell cultured medium. During culture, several biological characteristics of the human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) cultured on CS/CH-PLA groups were promoted as compared to those on pure PLA mat. Increased secretion levels of Collagen I and fibronectin were observed in calcium silicate-powder content. Furthermore, with comparison to PLA mats without CS/CH, CS10 and CS15 mats markedly enhanced the proliferation of hMSCs and their osteogenesis properties, which was characterized by osteogenic-related gene expression. These results clearly demonstrated that the biodegradable and electroactive CS/CH-PLA composite mats are an ideal and suitable candidate for bone tissue engineering.
Undariopsis peterseniana Promotes Hair Growth by the Activation of Wnt/β-Catenin and ERK Pathways
Authors: Kang Jung-Il , Kim Min-Kyoung , Lee Ji-Hyeok , Jeon You-Jin , Hwang Eun-Kyoung , Koh Young-Sang , Hyun Jin-Won , Kwon Soon-Young , Yoo Eun-Sook , Kang Hee-Kyoung
Published: May 2017

In this study, we investigated the effect and mechanism of Undariopsis peterseniana, an edible brown alga, on hair growth. The treatment of vibrissa follicles with U. peterseniana extract ex vivo for 21 days significantly increased the hair-fiber lengths. The U. peterseniana extract also significantly accelerated anagen initiation in vivo. Moreover, we found that U. peterseniana extract was able to open the KATP channel, which may contribute to increased hair growth. The U. peterseniana extract decreased 5α-reductase activity and markedly increased the proliferation of dermal papilla cells, a central regulator of the hair cycle. The U. peterseniana extract increased the levels of cell cycle proteins, such as Cyclin D1, phospho(ser780)-pRB, Cyclin E, phospho-CDK2, and CDK2. The U. peterseniana extract also increased the phosphorylation of ERK and the levels of Wnt/β-catenin signaling proteins such as glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) and β-catenin. These results suggested that the U. peterseniana extract had the potential to influence hair growth by dermal papilla cells proliferation through the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin and ERK pathways. We isolated a principal of the U. peterseniana extract, which was subsequently identified as apo-9′-fucoxanthinone, a trichogenic compound. The results suggested that U. peterseniana extract may have a pivotal role in the treatment of alopecia.
Comparative Morphological and Crystallographic Analysis of Electrochemically- and Chemically-Produced Silver Powder Particles
Authors: Avramović Ljiljana , Pavlović Miroslav , Maksimović Vesna , Vuković Marina , Stevanović Jasmina , Bugarin Mile , Nikolić Nebojša
Published: May 2017

Silver powders chemically synthesized by reduction with hydrazine and those produced by electrolysis from the basic (nitrate) and complex (ammonium) electrolytes were examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis of the produced particles. Morphologies of the obtained particles were very different at the macro level. The needle-like dendrites, as well as the mixture of irregular and regular crystals, were formed from the nitrate electrolyte, while the highly-branched pine-like dendrites with clearly noticeable spherical grains were formed from the ammonium electrolyte. The agglomerates of spherical grains were formed by reduction with hydrazine. In the particles obtained from the nitrate electrolyte, Ag crystallites were strongly oriented in the (111) plane. Although morphologies of Ag particles were very different at the macro level, the similarity at the micro level was observed between chemically-synthesized particles and those obtained by electrolysis from the ammonium electrolyte. Both types of particles were constructed from the spherical grains. This similarity at the micro level was accompanied by the similar XRD patterns, which were very close to the Ag standard with a random orientation of Ag crystallites. For the first time, morphologies of powder particles were correlated with their crystal structure.
Design and Fabrication of a 2-Axis Electrothermal MEMS Micro-Scanner for Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Tanguy Quentin , Bargiel Sylwester , Xie Huikai , Passilly Nicolas , Barthès Magali , Gaiffe Olivier , Rutkowski Jaroslaw , Lutz Philippe , Gorecki Christophe
Published: May 2017

This paper introduces an optical 2-axis Micro Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) micromirror actuated by a pair of electrothermal actuators and a set of passive torsion bars. The actuated element is a dual-reflective circular mirror plate of 1 m m in diameter. This inner mirror plate is connected to a rigid frame via a pair of torsion bars in two diametrically opposite ends located on the rotation axis. A pair of electrothermal bimorphs generates a force onto the perpendicular free ends of the mirror plate in the same angular direction. An array of electrothermal bimorph cantilevers deflects the rigid frame around a working angle of 45 ∘ for side-view scan. The performed scans reach large mechanical angles of 32 ∘ for the frame and 22 ∘ for the in-frame mirror. We denote three resonant main modes, pure flexion of the frame at 205 Hz , a pure torsion of the mirror plate at 1.286 kHz and coupled mode of combined flexion and torsion at 1.588 kHz . The micro device was fabricated through successive stacks of materials onto a silicon-on-insulator wafer and the patterned deposition on the back-side of the dual-reflective mirror is achieved through a dry film photoresist photolithography process.
Modulation of HO-1 by Ferulic Acid Attenuates Adipocyte Differentiation in 3T3-L1 Cells
Authors: Koh Eun-Jeong , Kim Kui-Jin , Seo Young-Jin , Choi Jia , Lee Boo-Yong
Published: May 2017

Ferulic acid (FA) is phenolic compound found in fruits. Many studies have reported that FA has diverse therapeutic effects against metabolic diseases. However, the mechanism by which FA modulates adipogenesis via the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) implicated in suppression of adipocyte differentiation is not fully understood. We investigated whether HO-1 can be activated by FA and suppress adipogenic factors in 3T3-L1. Our results showed that FA suppresses triglyceride-synthesizing enzymes, fatty acid synthase (FASN) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC). We observed that the expression of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α (C/EBPα) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) were suppressed by FA. In addition, HO-1 inhibitor stimulated lipid accumulation, while FA attenuated lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 treated with HO-1 inhibitor. We also observed that the expression of HO-1 had the same tendency as C/EBP homologous protein 10 (CHOP10) during the mitotic clonal expansion (MCE) of adipogenesis. We next employed siRNA against HO-1 to clarify whether HO-1 regulates CHOP10. The results indicated that CHOP10 is downstream of HO-1. Furthermore, FA-mediated HO-1/CHOP10 axis activation prevented the initiation of MCE. Therefore, we demonstrated that FA is a positive regulator of HO-1 in 3T3-L1, and may be an effective bioactive compound to reduce adipocyte tissue mass.
Iodine Status and Iodised Salt Consumption in Portuguese School-Aged Children: The Iogeneration Study
Authors: Costa Leite João , Keating Elisa , Pestana Diogo , Cruz Fernandes Virgínia , Maia Maria , Norberto Sónia , Pinto Edgar , Moreira-Rosário André , Sintra Diana , Moreira Bárbara , Costa Ana , Silva Sofia , Costa Vera , Martins Inês , Castro Mendes Francisca , Queirós Pedro , Peixoto Bruno , Carlos Caldas José , Guerra António , Fontoura Manuel , Leal Sandra , Moreira Roxana , Palmares Carvalho Irene , Matias Lima Rui , Martins Catia , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Almeida Agostinho , Azevedo Luís , Calhau Conceição
Published: May 2017

The World Health Organization promotes salt iodisation to control iodine deficiency. In Portugal, the use of iodised salt in school canteens has been mandatory since 2013. The present study aimed to evaluate iodine status in school-aged children (6–12 years) and to monitor the use of iodised salt in school canteens. A total of 2018 participants were randomly selected to participate in a cross-sectional survey in northern Portugal. Children’s urine and salt samples from households and school canteens were collected. A lifestyle questionnaire was completed by parents to assess children’s eating frequency of iodine food sources. Urinary iodine concentration (UIC) was measured by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The median UIC was 129 µg/L which indicates the adequacy of iodine status and 32% of the children had UIC < 100 µg/L. No school canteen implemented the iodised salt policy and only 2% of the households were using iodised salt. Lower consumption of milk, but not fish, was associated with a higher risk of iodine deficiency. Estimation of sodium intake from spot urine samples could be an opportunity for adequate monitoring of population means. Implementation of iodine deficiency control policies should include a monitoring program aligned with the commitment of reducing the population salt intake.
Effect of Probiotics on Metabolic Outcomes in Pregnant Women with Gestational Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Taylor Bonnie , Woodfall Georgia , Sheedy Katherine , O’Riley Meggan , Rainbow Kelsie , Bramwell Elsa , Kellow Nicole
Published: May 2017

The metabolic effects of probiotic administration in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is unknown. The objective of this review was to investigate the effect of probiotics on fasting plasma glucose (FPG), insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and LDL-cholesterol levels in pregnant women diagnosed with GDM. Seven electronic databases were searched for RCTs published in English between 2001 and 2017 investigating the metabolic effects of a 6–8 week dietary probiotic intervention in pregnant women following diagnosis with GDM. Eligible studies were assessed for risk of bias and subjected to qualitative and quantitative synthesis using a random effects model meta-analyses. Four high quality RCTs involving 288 participants were included in the review. Probiotic supplementation was not effective in decreasing FBG (Mean Difference = −0.13; 95% CI −0.32, 0.06, p = 0.18) or LDL-cholesterol (−0.16; 95% CI −0.45, 0.13, p = 0.67) in women with GDM. However, a significant reduction in HOMA-IR was observed following probiotic supplementation (−0.69; 95% CI −1.24, −0.14, p = 0.01). There were no significant differences in gestational weight gain, delivery method or neonatal outcomes between experimental and control groups, and no adverse effects of the probiotics were reported. Probiotic supplementation for 6–8 weeks resulted in a significant reduction in insulin resistance in pregnant women diagnosed with GDM. The use of probiotic supplementation is promising as a potential therapy to assist in the metabolic management of GDM. Further high quality studies of longer duration are required to determine the safety, optimal dose and ideal bacterial composition of probiotics before their routine use can be recommended in this patient group.