bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of Glutamate Transporters in Mouse Liver, Kidney, and Intestine
Authors: Hu Qiu Xiang , Ottestad-Hansen Sigrid , Holmseth Silvia , Hassel Bjørnar , Danbolt Niels Christian , Zhou Yun
Published: January 2018

Glutamate transport activities have been identified not only in the brain, but also in the liver, kidney, and intestine. Although glutamate transporter distributions in the central nervous system are fairly well known, there are still uncertainties with respect to the distribution of these transporters in peripheral organs. Quantitative information is mostly lacking, and few of the studies have included genetically modified animals as specificity controls. The present study provides validated qualitative and semi-quantitative data on the excitatory amino acid transporter (EAAT)1–3 subtypes in the mouse liver, kidney, and intestine. In agreement with the current view, we found high EAAT3 protein levels in the brush borders of both the distal small intestine and the renal proximal tubules. Neither EAAT1 nor EAAT2 was detected at significant levels in murine kidney or intestine. In contrast, the liver only expressed EAAT2 (but 2 C-terminal splice variants). EAAT2 was detected in the plasma membranes of perivenous hepatocytes. These cells also expressed glutamine synthetase. Conditional deletion of hepatic EAAT2 did neither lead to overt neurological disturbances nor development of fatty liver.
Procalcitonin vs. the combination of micro-erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein for diagnosing neonatal bacterial sepsis
Authors: Ramadanti Afifa , Hiasinta Renya , Bermawi Herman , Bahar Erial
Published: January 2018

Background Given the high rates of mortality and morbidity in neonatal sepsis, rapid, easy-to-use, and inexpensive biomarkers with high sensitivity and specificity are needed to diagnose neonatal sepsis. Procalcitonin is often used as a predictor in identifying neonatal sepsis, but C-reactive protein (CRP) and micro-erythrocte sedimentation rate (m-ESR) may also be valid biomarkers of neonatal sepsis.Objective To compare the accuracy of procalcitonin to the combination of CRP and m-ESR, as well as to find cut-off points for the three tests, in diagnosing bacterial neonatal sepsis.Methods Subjects were neonates hospitalized from July to October 2016 in Mohammad Hoesin Hospital, Palembang with sepsis at clinical presentation and healthy neonates with sepsis risk factors. All subjects underwent complete blood counts, CRP, m-ESR, blood cultures, and  procalcitonin examinations.Results Ninety-four infants were included, of whom 26 had proven sepsis. The combined values of m-ESR and CRP had 85% sensitivity, 59% specificity, and 66% accuracy. A procalcitonin (PCT) cut-off point of 9.7ng/mL showed 100% sensitivity, 96% specificity, and 97% accuracy level, which were significantly higher than the combined values of m-ESR and CRP.Conclusion The combined values of m-ESR (13 mm/hour) - CRP (17 mg/dL) and procalcitonin alone (2ng/mL) are both valid for the diagnosis of bacterial neonatal sepsis, but the accuracy of procalcitonin at 9.7ng/mL is significantly greater.
The role of genetic variation in TCF7L2 and KCNJ11, dietary intake, and physical activity on fasting plasma glucagon-like peptide-1 in male adolescents
Authors: Luglio Harry Freitag , Huriyati Emy
Published: January 2018

Background Transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2) and potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily j member 11 (KCNJ11) gene polymorphisms have been associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) via regulation of insulin production. Ingested nutrients induce glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which in turn induces insulin secretion.Objective To evaluate the relationship between TCF7L2 and KCNJ11 gene polymorphism, dietary intake, and physical activity on fasting plasma GLP-1 in normal male adolescents.Methods This observational study with a cross-sectional design included 54 male adolescents selected from high schools in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Interviews were done to collect data on energy intake and physical activity. The GLP-1 and insulin levels were measured from fasting blood plasma. The TCF7L2 and KCNJ11 gene polymorphisms were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).Results Fasting GLP-1 was positively correlated with energy intake (r=0.276; P=0.047), but not with physical activity (r=0.011; P=0.936). The GLP-1 concentration was not associated with TCF7L2 and KCNJ11 gene polymorphisms (all P>0.05). In subjects with an EE genotype (KCNJ11), GLP-1 was not correlated with insulin (r=-0.036; P=0.435). However, in subjects with an EK genotype (KCNJ11), GLP-1 was positively correlated with insulin (r=0.394; P=0.026).Conclusion GLP-1 concentration is positively correlated with body weight. Among male adolescents with a genetic variation in KCNJ11 (EK genotype), there is a significant correlation between GLP-1 and insulin signalling.
Reorganizing a countywide school district: A critical analysis of politics and policy development toward decentralization
Authors: Diem Sarah , Sampson Carrie , Browning Laura Gavornik
Published: January 2018

Policymakers and educational leaders continue to use school district decentralization as a reform effort that attempts to shift power and authority from central office administration to school-level leadership. In 2015, the Nevada Legislature passed legislation to restructure the Clark County School District (CCSD), the state’s largest school district, with the intent of breaking it up into smaller districts but instead evolving to decentralization. In this article, we use case study methods to explore the events leading up to the reorganization of CCSD. We take a critical perspective on Kingdon’s multiple streams framework to analyze the reorganization efforts, focusing specifically on how Nevada’s political context provided a window of opportunity for the reorganization to occur. We also examine the extent to which equitable educational opportunity was a factor in these efforts. Our analysis of the reorganization of CCSD contributes to a wider understanding of state-level policy development and politics within contemporary educational contexts. In this case, we find that state-level policymakers successfully leveraged the opportunity to enact the power and authority necessary to significantly and rapidly impact the structure of one of the largest school districts in the United States.
Interakcja w ujęciach teoretycznych – wieloaspektowy charakter zjawiska
Authors: Aleksandrzak Magdalena
Published: January 2018

The paper concentrates on the notion of interaction with regard to selected theoretical orientations and perspectives. First, the definitions of the three frequently overlapping terms – communication, discourse and interaction – are discussed with particular attention given to their mutual relationships within presented interpretations. Next, the status of interaction in some psychological, sociological and pedagogical orientations is briefly illustrated and a closer look is taken at interaction within cognitive, sociocultural and interactionist approaches to foreign language teaching and learning. The following part of the article focuses on types of interaction in the foreign language classroom. Finally, the selected interpretations of the construct of interactional competence are presented and analysed.
AN EXPLORATION OF PARTNERSHIP WORKING BETWEEN THE YOUTH JUSTICE SERVICE AND THE MULTI-AGENCY SAFEGUARDING HUB & FIRST RESPONSE TEAM IN RELATION TO SAFEGUARDING REFERRALS REGARDING YOUNG PEOPLE SUPERVISED BY THE YOUTH JUSTICE SERVICE
Authors: Perumall Anna
Published: January 2018

The drive behind this paper is to explore the quality of the partnership working between the Youth Justice Service and the Multi – Agency Safeguarding Hub & First Response Team in one of the London Boroughs on the basis of 6 selected cases which were known to both services. The study begins with an explanation of the rationale for the research and an introduction to both services and their roles. Subsequently, I review the literature, publications and relevant government policies linked to this topic. Successively, I concentrate on methodology employed in the study and any ethical issues arising as well as the theory underpinning the research. Next part presents the findings and offers an analysis. Finally, the paper outlines the conclusions of this piece of work with a brief summary of recommendations for both services in order to enhance the understanding of their roles as well as how to work better together in order to achieve improved outcomes for young people.
Circulating miR-21, miR-210 and miR-146a as potential biomarkers to differentiate acute tubular necrosis from hepatorenal syndrome in patients with liver cirrhosis: a pilot study
Authors: Watany Mona Mohamed , Hagag Rasha Youssef , Okda Hanaa Ibrahim
Published: January 2018

Background:

Acute kidney injury (AKI) in cirrhotic patients may be functional (hepatorenal syndrome [HRS]) or structural (acute tubular necrosis [ATN]). The differentiation between these two conditions remains challenging; no definite biomarker with a clear cutoff value had been declared. miRNAs seem to be attractive innovative biomarkers to identify the nature of kidney injury in cirrhotic patients. This study aimed to investigate the possibility of using miR-21, miR-210 and miR-146a as differentiating markers between HRS and ATN.

Methods:

This pilot case control study included 50 patients with liver cirrhosis; 25 with HRS and another 25 with ATN beside 30 healthy controls. Real-time qPCR was used to measure the circulating miRNA tested.

Results:

Higher levels of miR-21 were observed in both ATN and HRS vs. controls with statistically significant difference between ATN and HRS. The means were 9.466±3.21 in ATN, 2.670±1.387 in HRS and 1.090±0.586 in controls. miR-146a and miR-210 were both significantly lower in ATN and HRS compared to controls with statistically significant differences between ATN and HRS. The means of miR-210 were 1.020±0.643, 1.640±0.605 and 3.0±0.532 in ATN, HRS and controls, respectively. The means of miR-146a were 2.543±1.929, 4.98±1.353 and 6.553±0.426 in ATN, HRS and controls, respectively. ROC analyses proved that the three studied mi-RNAs can be used as differentiating biomarkers between ATN and HRS with the best performance observed with mi-21 achieving specificity and sensitivity equal 96%.

Conclusions:

miR-21, miR-210 and miR-146a may be candidate differentiating markers between HRS and ATN in cirrhotic patients.
Detection of autoantibodies to the p200-epitope of SSA/Ro52 antigen. A comparison of two laboratory assays
Authors: Mattia Elena , Hoxha Ariela , Tonello Marta , Favaro Maria , Del Ross Teresa , Calligaro Antonia , Ghirardello Anna , Ruffatti Amelia
Published: January 2018

Background:

Anti-p200 antibodies have been receiving growing interest in view of findings associating their presence to risk of fetal autoimmune congenital heart block (CHB). The study compares and evaluates the performance of two assays currently being used for their detection.

Methods:

One hundred and sixteen pregnant women positive for anti-SSA/Ro52 antibodies were considered as the study population. Fifty women negative for anti-SSA/Ro52 antibodies were considered as the control population. Anti-p200 antibodies were analyzed using two home-made ELISA assays: one with biotinylated antigen and the other with free antigen.

Results:

The specificity of the p200-free assay was significantly higher with respect to that of the p200-biotin assay (p=0.023). Both methods showed a high area under curve (AUC), thus, a good accuracy. There was a significant prevalence of anti-p200 antibodies when the p200-free assay was used to analyze the sera of the pregnant women with CHB fetuses (p=0.007). Cohen’s κ and Spearman’s ρ coefficients showed a good concordance (0.71) and a high correlation (0.93), respectively.

Conclusions:

The p200-free assay with respect to the biotin-based method was more specific in detecting p200 antibodies in women positive for anti-SSA/Ro52 antibodies. In addition, only the p200-free method significantly found p200 antibodies in patients with fetal CHB.
Reference intervals for biochemical, haemostatic and haematological parameters in healthy Chinese women during early and late pregnancy
Authors: Jin Yi , Lu Jie , Jin Hong , Fei Chunrong , Xie Xinyou , Zhang Jun
Published: January 2018

Background:

Variations in maternal blood parameters, which are mostly induced by the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy, have been reported in different gestational periods. The use of the established reference intervals for healthy adult females leads to the misclassification of healthy pregnant women as abnormal. Our aim was to establish appropriate reference intervals for biochemical, haematological and haemostatic parameters in the first and third trimesters of pregnancy.

Methods:

We included 565 healthy pregnant women with normal pregnancies. Blood samples were collected for biochemical analyses, complete blood counts and coagulation analyses at 8–12 and 28–37 weeks of gestation. The median and reference intervals (the 2.5th and 97.5th values) were calculated for each parameter during pregnancy and then compared to the established reference intervals for healthy adult females.

Results:

Significant increases in triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, uric acid, alkaline phosphatase, white blood cell, mean platelet volume, fibrinogen and D-dimer reference intervals and clear decreases in total protein, albumin, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, red blood cell, haemoglobin, haematocrit, platelet counts and thrombin time reference intervals were observed during pregnancy. According to the ‘n%’, most changes were observed beginning in the first trimester. Compared to the established reference intervals, the greatest misclassifications were observed for ALB, ALP and D-Di.

Conclusions:

Changes in maternal blood parameters during pregnancy were confirmed. We recommend that the reference intervals for most blood parameters be revised to account for the gestational period.
A location-based multiple point statistics method: modelling the reservoir with non-stationary characteristics
Authors: Yin Yanshu , Feng Wenjie
Published: January 2018

In this paper, a location-based multiple point statistics method is developed to model a non-stationary reservoir. The proposed method characterizes the relationship between the sedimentary pattern and the deposit location using the relative central position distance function, which alleviates the requirement that the training image and the simulated grids have the same dimension. The weights in every direction of the distance function can be changed to characterize the reservoir heterogeneity in various directions. The local integral replacements of data events, structured random path, distance tolerance and multi-grid strategy are applied to reproduce the sedimentary patterns and obtain a more realistic result. This method is compared with the traditional Snesim method using a synthesized 3-D training image of Poyang Lake and a reservoir model of Shengli Oilfield in China. The results indicate that the new method can reproduce the non-stationary characteristics better than the traditional method and is more suitable for simulation of delta-front deposits. These results show that the new method is a powerful tool for modelling a reservoir with non-stationary characteristics.
Selection for Some Functional Markers for Adaptability of Helianthus argophyllus × Helianthus annuus Derived Population under Abiotic Stress Conditions
Authors: Hussain Muhammad Mubashar , Kausar Maria , Rauf Saeed , Khan M. Farukh Zafar , Paderweski Jakub , Khan Maria , ul Haq Ikram , Raza Abu Bakar Muhammad
Published: January 2018

Abiotic stresses including drought are major crop production constraints. However, specific functional phenotypic markers induce resistance against these stresses. Therefore, a study was initiated to study the variability, inheritance and selection of epicuticular waxes (EW) and leaf hairiness (LH) along with low cell membrane injuries (CMI) within F2 populations derived by crossing H. annuus×H. argophyllus lines. These traits have been shown to be associated with drought tolerance of Helianthus argophyllus and thus study aims to introgress these traits in Helinathus annuus. The studied parent populations showed contrasting values of the traits. The drought susceptible line CMS-14 and CMS-20 showed lower epicuticular waxes (0.79, 0.69 mg g−1), leaf hairiness (0.75, 1.53) and higher cell membrane injury (40.90, 55.76 %) respectively while drought resistant line Argo 1802 and 1806 showed higher epicuticular waxes (2.28, 3.18), leaf hairiness (3.71, 3.80) and lower cell membrane injury (14.22, 21.54 %) respectively. The F1 hybrids had mean values of the three studied parameters i. e. epicuticular waxes (1.50 mg g−1), cell membrance injury (32.54 %) and leaf hairiness (2.74) in the range of parent lines, but some of F2 individuals extend beyond this range (Parents and F1s). The two-step selections maintained high variability especially of LH for set of F2 individuals (H. annuus CMS-20×H. argophyllus 1806). Simultaneous selection of F2 individuals with high values of LH or EW with low CMI was possible. The selected plants were further studied for narrow leaf, high fertility and silver canopy color. Selected material was promoted as the candidate of inbred line. Plant (F4) having introgressed traits (silver canopy) showed lower yield (19 %) than green leafed plants (53 %) and commercial hybrids under drought stress (63 % and 53 %). The study could help to increase the abiotic stress tolerance, minimize the yield losses under drought stress and increase functional diversity within sunflower.
“All War is Contrary to the Mind of Christ:” The Bible and the Fellowship of Reconciliation
Authors: Randall Ian M.
Published: January 2018

This article examines some of the stages in the engagement of members of the Fellowship of Reconciliation (FoR) with the Bible. FoR was formed in 1914 and became the leading interdenominational pacifist Christian body in Britain. The article shows the influence of the Bible in the beginnings of FoR, traces the way biblical convictions shaped the views of conscientious objectors to military conscription, analyses pacifism and the Bible in the aftermath of war, and argues that FoR’s pacifist approach, with a focus on the teaching and example of Jesus, gained greater acceptance in the 1930s.
Does any convex quadrilateral have circumscribed ellipses?
Authors: Li Jia Hui , Wang Zhuo Qun , Shen Yi Xi , Dai Zhong Yuan
Published: January 2018

The past decades have witnessed several well-known beautiful conclusions on four con-cyclic points. With highly promising research value, we profoundly studied circumscribed ellipses of convex quadrilaterals in this paper. Using tools of parallel projective transformation and analytic geometry, we derived several theorems including the proof of the existence of circumscribed ellipses of convex quadrilaterals, the properties of its minimal coverage area, and locus center, respectively. This simple approach lays a solid foundation for its application to three-dimensional situations, which is namely the circumscribed quadric surface of a solid figure and its wide-range utility in construction engineering. Meanwhile, we have a new insight into innate connection of conic sections as well as a taste of beauty and harmony of geometry.
Differential subordination and convexity criteria of integral operators
Authors: Chandrashekar R. , Keong Lee See , Subramanian K.G.
Published: January 2018

A significant connection between certain second-order differential subordination and subordination of f′(z) is obtained. This fundamental result is next applied to investigate the convexity of analytic functions defined in the open unit disk. As a consequence, criteria for convexity of functions defined by integral operators are determined. Connections are also made to earlier known results.
Bell’s “Theorem”: loopholes vs. conceptual flaws
Authors: Kracklauer A. F.
Published: January 2018

An historical overview and detailed explication of a critical analysis of what has become known as Bell’s Theorem to the effect that, it should be impossible to extend Quantum Theory with the addition of local, real variables so as to obtain a version free of the ambiguous and preternatural features of the currently accepted interpretations is presented. The central point on which this critical analysis, due originally to Edwin Jaynes, is that Bell incorrectly applied probabilistic formulas involving conditional probabilities. In addition, mathematical technicalities that have complicated the understanding of the logical or mathematical setting in which current theory and experimentation are embedded, are discussed. Finally, some historical speculations on the sociological environment, in particular misleading aspects, in which recent generations of physicists lived and worked are mentioned.
The problem of fouling in submerged membrane bioreactors – Model validation and experimental evidence
Authors: Tsibranska Irene , Vlaev Serafim , Tylkowski Bartosz
Published: January 2018

Integrating biological treatment with membrane separation has found a broad area of applications and industrial attention. Submerged membrane bioreactors (SMBRs), based on membrane modules immersed in the bioreactor, or side stream ones connected in recycle have been employed in different biotechnological processes for separation of thermally unstable products. Fouling is one of the most important challenges in the integrated SMBRs. A number of works are devoted to fouling analysis and its treatment, especially exploring the opportunity for enhanced fouling control in SMBRs. The main goal of the review is to provide a comprehensive yet concise overview of modeling the fouling in SMBRs in view of the problematics of model validation, either by real system measurements at different scales or by analysis of the obtained theoretical results. The review is focused on the current state of research applying computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling techniques.
2H NMR Studies on the Dynamics of Pure and Mixed Hydrogen-Bonded Liquids in Confinement
Authors: Demuth Dominik , Sattig Matthias , Steinrücken Elisa , Weigler Max , Vogel Michael
Published: January 2018

2H NMR is used to ascertain dynamical behaviors of pure and mixed hydrogen-bonded liquids in bulk and in confinement. Detailed comparisons of previous and new results in broad dynamic and temperature ranges reveal that confinement effects differ for various liquids and confinements. For water, molecular reorientation strongly depends on the confinement size, with much slower and less fragile structural relaxation under more severe geometrical restriction. Moreover, a dynamical crossover occurs when a fraction of solid water forms so that the dynamics of the fraction of liquid water becomes even more restricted and, as a consequence, changes from bulk-like to interface-dominated. For glycerol, by contrast, confinement has weak effects on the reorientation dynamics. Mixed hydrogen-bonded liquids show even more complex dynamical behaviors. For aqueous solutions, the temperature dependence of the structural relaxation becomes discontinuous when the concentration changes due to a freezing of water fractions. This tendency for partial crystallization is enhanced rather than reduced by confinement, because different liquid-matrix interactions of the molecular species induce micro-phase segregation, which facilitates ice formation in water-rich regions. In addition, dynamical couplings at solvent-protein interfaces are discussed. It is shown that, on the one hand, solvent dynamics are substantially slowed down at protein surfaces and, on the other hand, protein dynamics significantly depend on the composition and, thus, the viscosity of the solvent. Furthermore, a protein dynamical transition occurs when the amplitude of water-coupled restricted backbone dynamics vanishes upon cooling.
Thermal cis-to-trans Isomerization of Azobenzene Side Groups in Metal-Organic Frameworks investigated by Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhou Wencai , Grosjean Sylvain , Bräse Stefan , Heinke Lars
Published: January 2018

The energy barrier for cis-to-trans isomerization is among the key parameters for photoswitchable molecules such as azobenzene. Recently, we introduced a well-defined model system based on thin films of crystalline, nanoporous metal-organic frameworks, MOFs. The system enables the precise investigation of the thermal cis-to-trans relaxation of virtually isolated azobenzene pendant groups by means of infrared spectroscopy in vacuum. Here, this approach is extended by using localized surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy. This simple and relatively inexpensive setup enables the investigation of the thermal cis-to-trans isomerization in different environments, here in argon gas or in liquid butanediol. The energy barrier for the cis-to-trans-relaxation in argon, 1.17±0.20eV, is identical to the barrier in vacuum, while the energy barrier in liquid butanediol is slightly larger, 1.26±0.15eV.
Cortical Merging in S1 as a Substrate for Tactile Input Grouping
Authors: Corbo Julien , Zennou-Azogui Yoh’I , Xerri Christian , Catz Nicolas
Published: January 2018

Perception is a reconstruction process guided by rules based on knowledge about the world. Little is known about the neural implementation of the rules of object formation in the tactile sensory system. When two close tactile stimuli are delivered simultaneously on the skin, subjects feel a unique sensation, spatially centered between the two stimuli. Voltage-sensitive dye imaging (VSDi) and electrophysiological recordings [local field potentials (LFPs) and single units] were used to extract the cortical representation of two-point tactile stimuli in the primary somatosensory cortex of anesthetized Long-Evans rats. Although layer 4 LFP responses to brief costimulation of the distal region of two digits resembled the sum of individual responses, approximately one-third of single units demonstrated merging-compatible changes. In contrast to previous intrinsic optical imaging studies, VSD activations reflecting layer 2/3 activity were centered between the representations of the digits stimulated alone. This merging was found for every tested distance between the stimulated digits. We discuss this laminar difference as evidence that merging occurs through a buildup stream and depends on the superposition of inputs, which increases with successive stages of sensory processing. These findings show that layers 2/3 are involved in the grouping of sensory inputs. This process that could be inscribed in the cortical computing routine and network organization is likely to promote object formation and implement perception rules.
Analysis of a quarter car suspension system based on nonlinear shock absorber damping models
Authors: Barethiye V. M. , Pohit G. , Mitra A.
Published: January 2018

Shock absorber is a critical element of vehicle suspension system with nonlinear characteristics. In the present work, performance of vehicle characteristics was analysed by quarter car model to study the effect of shock absorber, on the basis of linear and nonlinear damping characteristics. In addition to linear and piecewise linear, polynomial damping characteristics were considered to address the nonlinear aspect of damping characteristics. The linear and nonlinear properties of the shock absorber were incorporated in a two degree of freedom quarter car suspension system. The modelling and simulation is carried out in Adams view environment and Matlab/Simulink. A bump road profile was used to excite the quarter car suspension models. The polynomial shock absorber model was validated using experimental data taken from established literature. Simulation was undertaken to study the dynamic performance in terms of sprung mass acceleration, body displacement, suspension deflection and unsprung mass acceleration. Experimental hysteresis characteristics data, taken from established literature, were also modelled in Adams view environment and the simulated results were used for validation purpose. The suspension system response incorporating shock absorber represented by nonlinear model, hysteresis model and piece wise linear model were provided in the result section for comparison. It was observed from quantitative comparisons that the RMS values for body acceleration and body displacement of the polynomial model matched fairly well with the results of experimental hysteresis response. It was concluded that in order to study the dynamic characteristics of the vehicle accurately, nonlinear behaviour of the damper is required to be captured properly. Therefore, the proposed polynomial shock absorber model can be a better option for vehicle dynamic analysis as compared to the complex hysteresis model.
Faecal corticosterone metabolite assessment in socially housed male and female Wistar rats
Authors: Cinque Carlo , Zinni Manuela , Zuena Anna Rita , Giuli Chiara , Alemà Sebastiano G , Catalani Assia , Casolini Paola , Cozzolino Roberto
Published: January 2018

Knowledge of animals’ hormonal status is important for conservation studies in wild or semi-free-ranging conditions as well as for behavioural and clinical experiments conducted in laboratory research, mostly performed on rats and mice. Faecal sampling is a useful non-invasive method to obtain steroid hormone assessments. Nevertheless, in laboratory studies, unlike other contexts, faecal sampling is less utilised. One of the issues raised is the necessity to collect samples belonging to different animals, separately. Usually, researchers using faecal sampling solve this problem through the isolation of animals or taking the cage rather than single animal as unit of study. These solutions though, could lead to unreliable measurements, and cannot be applied in many studies. Our aim was to show the biological reliability of individual faecal corticosterone metabolite (FCM) assessments in socially housed male and female Wistar rats. We analytically validated the enzyme immunoassay kit used for FCM assessments. Then, we exposed the animals to two different stress stimuli that are known to activate the hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal axis and the following release of corticosterone to biologically validate the EIA kit: environmental enrichment and predator odour. Individual faecal sampling from social animals was collected through short-time handling. The results demonstrated that both the stimuli increased FCM levels in male and female rats showing the reliability of EIA kit assessment and the applicability of our sampling method. We also found a diurnal rhythm in FCM levels. These results could help to increase the use of faecal hormone metabolite determinations in studies conducted on rats.
Recurrent lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia with inadvertent metformin use: a case of look-alike pills
Authors: Jacob Tess , Garrick Renee , Goldberg Michael D
Published: January 2018

Metformin is recommended as the first-line agent for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Although this drug has a generally good safety profile, rare but potentially serious adverse effects may occur. Metformin-associated lactic acidosis, although very uncommon, carries a significant risk of mortality. The relationship between metformin accumulation and lactic acidosis is complex and is affected by the presence of comorbid conditions such as renal and hepatic disease. Plasma metformin levels do not reliably correlate with the severity of lactic acidosis. We present a case of inadvertent metformin overdose in a patient with both renal failure and hepatic cirrhosis, leading to two episodes of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia. The patient was successfully treated with hemodialysis both times and did not develop any further lactic acidosis or hypoglycemia, after the identification of metformin tablets accidentally mixed in with his supply of sevelamer tablets. Early initiation of renal replacement therapy is key in decreasing lactic acidosis-associated mortality.

Learning points:

When a toxic ingestion is suspected, direct visualization of the patient’s pills is advised in order to rule out the possibility of patient- or pharmacist-related medication errors.

Though sending a specimen for determination of the plasma metformin concentration is important when a metformin-treated patient with diabetes presents with lactic acidosis, complex relationships exist between metformin accumulation, hyperlactatemia and acidosis, and the drug may not always be the precipitating factor.

Intermittent hemodialysis is recommended as the first-line treatment for metformin-associated lactic acidosis (MALA).

An investigational delayed-release form of metformin with reduced systemic absorption may carry a lower risk for MALA in patients with renal insufficiency, in whom metformin therapy may presently be contraindicated.
Increased rounds of gonadotropin stimulation have side effects on mouse fallopian tubes and oocytes
Authors: Di Nisio Valentina , Rossi Gianna , Palmerini Maria Grazia , Macchiarelli Guido , Tiboni Gian Mario , Cecconi Sandra
Published: January 2018

In this study, it was evaluated if increased rounds of gonadotropin stimulation could affect in mice: (i) expression levels of proteins regulating cell cycle and DNA repair in fallopian tubes and (ii) meiotic spindle morphology of ovulated oocytes. To this end, adult female mice were subjected or not (Control) to 6 or 8 rounds of gonadotropin stimulation. Ovulated oocytes were incubated with anti A/B tubulin to evaluate spindle morphology. Fallopian tubes were analyzed to detect Cyclin D1, phospho-p53/p53, phospho-AKT/AKT, phospho-GSK3B/GSK3B, SOX2, OCT3/4, phospho-B-catenin/B-catenin, phospho-CHK1 and phospho-H2A.X protein levels. After 6 rounds, Cyclin D1, p53 and phospho-p53 contents were higher than Control. After 8 rounds, the contents of phosphorylated AKT, GSK3B and p53 as well as of total p53, Cyclin D1 and OCT3/4 significantly increased in comparison with Control. Conversely, SOX2 and B-catenin were similarly expressed among all experimental groups. The finding that phospho-CHK1 and phospho-H2A.X protein levels were undetectable supported the absence of extensive DNA damage. Oocytes number and percentage of normal meiotic spindles drastically decreased from 6 rounds onward. Altogether, our results demonstrated that 6 and 8 cycles of gonadotropin stimulation reduce mouse reproductive performances by inducing over-expression and over-activation of proteins controlling cell cycle progression in fallopian tubes and by impairing oocyte spindle.
Assessment of Dental Implant Stability in Areas Previously Submitted to Maxillary Sinus Elevation
Authors: Silva Karine Câmara , Zenóbio Elton Gonçalves , Souza Paulo Eduardo Alencar , Soares Rodrigo Villamarim , Cosso Maurício Greco , Horta Martinho Campolina Rebello
Published: January 2018

This study aimed to compare the primary and secondary stability, measured by resonance frequency analysis (RFA), in implants of different lengths installed in areas submitted to maxillary sinus lift. Correlation between RFA and implant insertion torque was also assessed. Twenty implants of 9 and 11 mm were inserted in areas submitted to maxillary sinus lift. The insertion torque was measured by the Bien Air motor. Osstell, through RFA, determined the implant stability quotient (ISQ) 2 times: the day of implant installation (T1) and 90 days after implant installation (T2). No differences were observed in the ISQ between T1 and T2 when the 20 implants were grouped, nor when the 9 mm implants were evaluated separately. In contrast, when the 11 mm values were evaluated separately, the ISQ was significantly higher in T2 than in T1 (P < .05). In T1, 9 mm implants had a higher ISQ than 11 mm ones (P < .05), whereas in T2, the implants of 11 mm showed a higher ISQ than did the 9 mm implants (P < .05). There was no difference in insertion torque between 9 and 11 mm implants (P > .05), nor was there a correlation between ISQ and insertion torque (P > .05). In conclusion, longer implants (11 mm) presented a significant increase in ISQ values during the healing period when installed in areas previously submitted to maxillary sinus lift. This phenomenon was not observed for shorter implants (9 mm). Finally, no correlation was observed between ISQ and insertion torque.
A IDENTIDADE DO PROFISSIONAL DOCENTE :diferenças nas práticas pedagógicas dos professores licenciados e bachareis no curso de educação física em uma IES em Quixadá-CE
Authors: Carneiro Stania Nagila Vasconcelos , Vieira Alessandra Bandeira , Alves Mariza Maria
Published: January 2018

O presente artigo tem como objetivo compreender a construção da identidade dos professores em sala de aula da Educação Superior, seus anseios, e como estão encaminhando a melhoria de sua prática docente, além de analisar as diferenças e semelhanças entre licenciatura e bacharelado do curso de Educação Física de uma instituição de ensino superior em Quixadá -Ce. Para isso, fez-se uma pesquisa documental, onde foram analisados os currículos de cada docente, no intuito de averiguarmos suas formações, suas metodologias de ensino e quais práticas utilizam para desenvolver sua profissão, aplicou-se também aos docentes um questionário, a fim de se perceber, a partir de suas metodologias de ensino, a diferença entre a teoria e a prática na formação profissional. Percebeu-se que, apesar dos professores estarem atuando concomitantemente nos cursos de Licenciatura e Bacharelado em Educação Física da UniCatólica, sua atuação está sendo desenvolvida, mesmo que em áreas e clientela diferenciada, competências profissionais semelhantes nos acadêmicos, preocupados com questões que englobam a atuação no mercado de trabalho e toda a sua gama de atribuições no que diz respeito ao desenvolvimento profissional para uma melhor atuação, reflexão e exercício da profissão
As imagens do pensamento sobre diferenças do projeto pedagógico do curso de pedagogia da UESB
Authors: Duarte Juciara Rodrigues Rocha , Dos Santos Cestari Luiz Artur
Published: January 2018

Este artigo tem como objetivo mapear as imagens do pensamento sobre as diferenças e a pluralidade que fazem parte do currículo do curso de Pedagogia da Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia localizada em Itapetinga, Bahia, Brasil. Tomando como base um currículo rizomático e uma teoria pós-estruturalista da filosofia de Gilles Deleuze, esta pesquisa de mestrado fez uma cartografia do projeto do curso de Pedagógia (PPC) implantado desde 2011. O PPC é aqui compreendido como um texto que está ligado a outros textos, seja imagético ou sonoro, e permeados por narrativas que legítima ou não determinados tipos de conhecimento, que inclui ou não as diferenças. Ao cartografar o PPC enfatizando a organização curricular, as imagens apontam a um currículo arbóreo, como também um currículocriminoso que prende as diferenças em suas grades.
Pacto Nacional pelo Fortalecimento do Ensino Médio no contexto das ações, políticas e programas para o jovem brasileiro
Authors: Santos Joedson Brito dos , De Oliveira Angelita Almeida
Published: January 2018

Objetiva discutir as ações, políticas e programas para o jovem no Brasil e a relação entre empregabilidade/trabalho e constituição do ser jovem a partir do Pacto Nacional pelo Fortalecimento do Ensino Médio que traz à tona a necessidade de se discutir o modelo de formação pensado para os jovens brasileiros. Volta a atenção para as estratégias e os projetos desenvolvidos no Brasil com foco na juventude e que apresenta objetivo, tanto inserir o jovem no mercado de trabalho via incentivo aos processos educativos quanto sustenta a ideia de desenvolvimento econômico versos educação. Todavia, não garante ao jovem formação condizente com a emancipação do sujeito total. Palavras Chave: Ensino Médio: Juventude: Trabalho: Educação.
PERCURSOS DA SOCIOLOGIA NOS CURRICULOS DO ENSINO MEDIO NO BRASIL: o que dizem professores e alunos?
Authors: Sousa Maria Das Dôres , Barros Vieira Maria Alveni
Published: January 2018

Resumo: O presente artigo faz parte de um projeto de pesquisa, em fase conclusiva e tem como objetivo contribuir com o debate da Sociologia no ensino médio, a partir dos dizeres dos professores e alunos participantes deste estudo.  A imersão no campo empírico se constituiu na análise documental e aplicação de questionário. Os resultados apresentados foram obtidos por meio de uma metodologia de pesquisa de abordagem qualitativa. Inicialmente foi realizado um levantamento bibliográfico que nos possibilitou construir um breve histórico da institucionalização da disciplina de Sociologia no currículo do ensino médio no Brasil. Em seguida fomos buscar nos dizeres dos professores e alunos pesquisados, elementos para uma a compreensão da institucionalização da Sociologia nos currículos das escolas do ensino médio brasileiro. Finalizando, apontamos elementos conclusivos do estudo que assinalam possíveis contribuições da Sociologias para a formação da percepção crítica dos alunos sobre a sociedade, os grupos, as leis e direitos, contribuindo assim, para a formação da cidadania dos jovens educandos do ensino médio. Palavras - chave: Disciplina de Sociologia. Ensino médio. Currículo. Professor. Aluno.
Atenção, concentração! Sobre a regulação de prescrições nacionais e a ampliação de sentidos de currículos com crianças
Authors: Nunes Kezia Rodrigues , Ferraço Carlos Eduardo
Published: January 2018

Objetiva dar visibilidade às conversas com as crianças e ampliar sentidos de currículo na Educação Infantil, motivados pela intenção de conferir a elas protagonismo contra o risco de nos afastar de suas demandas em favor do que é considerado desejável por uma prescrição curricular comum. Parte de uma experiência inquietante vivida na pesquisa com o cotidiano (Ferraço, 2007) realizada em um Centro Municipal de Educação Infantil em Cariacica/ES.  Realiza composição com crianças, prescrições curriculares, Certeau (1994), Deleuze (2009), Deleuze e Guattarri (1995) e com o conceito de redes de sentidosproduções. Vale-se de três movimentos metodológicos: as conversas, as brincadeiras de entrevista e o mergulho nas práticas cotidianas. Essas experiências fortalecem nossa aposta em uma concepção de currículo que não busca fixar representações e não se determina a partir de uma Base Nacional Comum Curricular, mas os potencializa como produção em redes de conhecimentos, experiências, linguagens, afecções, saberes e fazeres da escola e da vida.
Risk-based tender evaluation using multicriteria decision analysis in Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Samuel Don
Published: January 2018

The construction industry in Trinidad and Tobago has been faced with several challenges in procurement – that is, the perceived and actual lack of transparency and accountability in the tendering processes – leading to projects with cost overruns, time overruns and/or defects relating to quality. This paper attempts to add to the existing knowledge base in one area of the procurement process: improving the efficiency of tender evaluations. This research was undertaken to develop an additional method for executing tender evaluations based on risk by using multicriteria decision analysis. The main objective was to design a rapid and user-friendly tender evaluation tool in order to estimate the risks, final price and final duration prior to the award of contract. The achievement of this objective would permit a client to plan, budget and mitigate their risk prior to the award of contract. This is deemed beneficial to the industry in overcoming the challenges of procurement in Trinidad and Tobago.
Peculiarities of Higher Education Students’ Functional and Motor Preparedness
Authors: Chernenko S. , Oliinyk O. , Kapkan O. , Malakhova Zh.
Published: January 2018

The objective is to determine the age peculiarities of higher education students’ functional and motor preparedness.Materials and methods. The participants in the study were male students of the 1st year (n = 98), 2nd year (n = 69), 3rd year (n = 56), 4th year (n = 32), and 5th year (n = 46) of training.The following research methods were used to solve the tasks set within the study: analysis of scientific literature, pedagogical observation, pedagogical testing; the index method and biomedical methods. The pedagogical methods were used to study the peculiarities of the functional state of the organism and the motor abilities in higher education students of the 1st-5th years of trtaining; methods of mathematical statistics were used to processing the data.Results. The first and second-year students demonstrated statistically reliable dynamics in the indicators of their functional and motor preparedness. Thus, at the age of 19, the students show a decrease in the Ruffier index (9.7 – “good heart”), the static equilibrium (12 sec. – “satisfactory”), and the standing long jump (Р <0.05). The breath-holding indicators and the speed-strength abilities (running 100 m) and the strength of hand muscles remain unchanged. At the age of 20, the students show a significant deterioration in the results of Gench’s test (31 sec.) and Romberg’s test (3.9 sec.), (P <0.05). The recorded results of the Ruffie index, timed inspiratory capacity, speed-strength abilities, and strength demonstrated no change. At the age of  20-21, significant changes happen to the indicators of the cardiovascular system and breath-holding. The speed-strength abilities, the strength of hand muscles remain unchanged. At the age of  21-22 (4th and 5th year), all the indicators show no change.Conclusions. At the age ranging between 18 and 22, the Ruffle index shows an increase in the number of students whose diovascular system state indicator is assessed as “good” and a decrease in the number of students whose result by this indicator is assessed as “bad”. The level of motor abilities development varies statistically unreliably.
Modeling Biotechnical Systems in Sports
Authors: Lopatiev A. O. , Vlasov A. P. , Demichkovskyi A. P.
Published: January 2018

The objective is to describe biotechnical systems, to specify their functioning and to determine the conditions to decrease the uncertainty of the systems; to search and interprete the hidden periodic behavior of the numerical series occurring in training and competitive activities.Materials and methods. The functioning of biotechnical systems was studied. To characterize the functional state of the system, the study used analysis of the cardiovascular system functioning, which was quantitatively characterized by the frequency of cardiac contractions taken in the dynamic mode with a pulsimeter with per-second discretization of time and analyzed using a software package.Results. The article proposes to use a certain approach to handle numerical series when studying biological and natural processes. The hidden periodic behavior of the numerical series occurring in training and competitive activities of athletes were sought out and interpreted. The paper presents some biotechnical systems.Conclusions. The paper proposes an approach to studying biotechnical systems. The human heart rate changes throughout the day depending on the time and is of fluctuating nature with certain periods, whereas the heart rate periods depend on the person’s activity and the time of day. At the same time, when in rest, the heart rate tends to decrease the amplitude. Moreover, the heart rate reading significantly depends on the load of the person. All this confirms the need to conduct a sufficiently detailed study of the human heart rate and its exposue to external and internal factors as well as the correlation between the latter. The uncertainty of the system decreases with the introduction of additional information.