bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nondiagnostic cytological results on ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration: Does the thyroid nodule depth matter?
Authors: Xia Jia-Jing , Li Meng-Sen , Zheng Li , Shi You-Zhen
Published: July 2017

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate whether thyroid nodule depth and other ultrasound features can predict nondiagnostic cytological results on ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

This retrospective study included 412 thyroid nodules that underwent ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration from 2014 to 2015. The nodules were classified as nondiagnostic and diagnostic by the cytopathological results. Clinical information of the patients (ie., age, sex) and ultrasound features (ie., size, depth, calcification, cystic content, vascularity) of the nodules were recorded and compared between the nondiagnostic group and diagnostic group.

RESULTS:

Age and sex were not significantly different between the nondiagnostic group and diagnostic group ( P > 0.05). Nodule depth >15 mm (OR, 7.128; P < 0.001), peripheral rim calcification (OR, 5.725; P = 0.01) and cystic content >50% (OR, 2.995; P = 0.018) were factors for the nondiagnostic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration cytopathological results. Macrocalcification in the nodule sized 5–10 mm was associated with the nondiagnostic results ( P = 0.04). Nodule size and vascularity were not associated with the nondiagnostic results ( P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

Nodule depth >15 mm, peripheral rim calcification and cystic content >50% were three independent predictors of the nondiagnostic cytopathological results. Macrocalcification in the nodule sized 5–10 mm was also associated with the nondiagnostic results.
Monthly and diurnal variations of limnological conditions of two ponds
Authors: Rahaman AKM Fazlur , Mansur MA , Rahman M Shahidur
Published: July 2017

A study on monthly and diurnal changes of limnological conditions of two ponds was conducted in the Bangladesh Agricultural University campus, Mymensingh. The research work was performed by studying the limnological parameters such as transparency, temperature, dissolved oxygen, free carbon dioxide, pH, total alkalinity, nitrate-nitrogen, phosphate-phosphorus and plankton. Diurnal variations of physico-chemical factors were studied fortnightly at 6 hrs intervals at 6 a.m., 12 noon, 6 p.m. and 12 midnight. The amounts of transparency, dissolved oxygen and pH were higher during winter months than in summer months in both the ponds. Transparency, water temperature, total alkalinity, NO3-N and PO4-P were higher during summer months than in winter months in both the ponds. But the amount of free carbon dioxide was higher during winter months than in summer months in pond 1 while in pond 2 the amount of free carbon dioxide was higher during summer months than in winter months. Qualitative and quantitative monthly variations of phytoplankton and zooplankton were observed in both the ponds during the study period. The highest amount of dissolved oxygen, pH and total alkalinity were recorded at 6 p.m. and the lowest amounts of those at 6 a.m. in both the ponds. The highest temperature was recorded at 12 noon and the lowest at 12 midnight. But the highest amount of free carbon dioxide was recorded at 6 a.m. and the lowest at 6 p.m. in both the ponds. All the factors showed appreciable diel variations throughout the study period, which indicate that the ponds are productive.Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 7 (1): 14-20, June, 2017
From Structure to Machine: Deleuze and Guattari's Philosophy of Linguistics
Authors: Aurora Simone
Published: July 2017

This paper aims to consider the main features of the philosophy of linguistics proposed by Deleuze and Guattari, which emerges from the criticisms directed at what in A Thousand Plateaus they call ‘postulates of linguistics’. The paper focuses on the transition from the Saussurean concept of system and from the connected notion of structure to Deleuze and Guattari's concept of machine. More precisely, the purpose of the paper lies, on the one hand, in showing in which sense Deleuze and Guattari claim that language is not a ‘structure’ but a ‘machine’ and why, accordingly, they maintain that the mentioned ‘postulates of linguistics’ must be refused; on the other hand, the paper represents an attempt at placing Deleuze and Guattari's position in the context of contemporary linguistics.
Deleuze as Subject – B2430.D454 – Mapping Deleuze Studies in the Library
Authors: Adler Melissa
Published: July 2017

Guided by Deleuze's taxonomic theory and practice and his concepts concerning the body, literature, territory and assemblage, this article examines library classification as a technique of discipline and bibliographic control. Locating books written by and about Deleuze reveals processes of discipline formation and the circulation of knowledge, and it troubles the principles upon which the classification is based. A Deleuzian critique presents the Library of Congress Classification as an abstract machine that diagrams knowledge in many academic libraries around the world.
Optimization of a Culture Medium Using the Taguchi Approach for the Production of Microorganisms Active in Odorous Compound Removal
Authors: Makowski Krzysztof , Matusiak Katarzyna , Borowski Sebastian , Bielnicki Jakub , Tarazewicz Alicja , Maroszyńska Marta , Leszczewicz Martyna , Powałowski Szymon , Gutarowska Beata
Published: July 2017

The aim of this work was to develop the composition of a medium for the cultivation of six microbial strains forming a deodorizing consortium: Pseudomonas fluorescens, Enterococcus faecium, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus megaterium, Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Lactobacillus plantarum. The study focused on the optimization of a highly efficient culture medium composed of readily available components of plant origin to maximize microbial biomass yields, and to create a less expensive alternative to the commercial Tryptic Soy Broth medium (TSB). After preliminary efficiency screening of all tested media components, we selected four substrates for further optimization—soy protein concentrate (SPC), glucose or sucrose, and phosphate salts. The final concentrations of all components were fine-tuned using the Taguchi design for experiments according to an L9 array. Taguchi optimization led to formulation of a culture medium, which was approximately 5 times cheaper than TSB (depending on the components used). Consequently, microbial biomass yields were improved by up to 15-fold (1564%), depending on the strain. The results obtained in the laboratory experiments were then confirmed in pilot- (42 L) and industrial- (300 L) scale fermentation. Our results show that this method of using a parallel culture microbioreactor with the Taguchi approach can be recommended for optimization of culture media based on substrates of plant origin.
Analysis and Experiment of Hot-Spot Temperature Rise of 110 kV Three-Phase Three-Limb Transformer
Authors: Gong Ruohan , Ruan Jiangjun , Chen Jingzhou , Quan Yu , Wang Jian , Duan Cihan
Published: July 2017

This paper presents a fluid-thermal coupled analysis method to compute the temperature distribution in a 31.5 MVA/110 kV oil natural air natural (ONAN) three-phase three-limb transformer. The power losses of windings and core are measured by load-loss test and no-load test respectively. The convective heat transfer process, radiation and oil flow inside the transformer are investigated by finite volume method (FVM). In order to validate the feasibility and accuracy of the presented method, the temperature measuring system based on fiber Brag grating (FBG) sensor is constructed for the temperature rise test of the 31.5 MVA/110 kV ONAN transformer. The simulation results deduced from the proposed method agree well with experimental data. This model can be applied to optimizing design and load scheduling.
The Globular Cluster System of the Galaxy NGC 6876
Authors: Ennis Ana , Bassino Lilia , Caso Juan
Published: July 2017

We present preliminary results of the deep photometric study of the elliptical galaxy NGC 6876, located at the center of the Pavo group, and its globular cluster system. We use images obtained with the GMOS camera mounted on the Gemini South telescope, in the g ′ and i ′ bands, with the purpose of disentangling the evolutionary history of the galaxy on the basis of its characteristics.
Monitoring of Pesticide Residues in Commonly Used Fruits and Vegetables in Kuwait
Authors: Jallow Mustapha , Awadh Dawood , Albaho Mohammed , Devi Vimala , Ahmad Nisar
Published: July 2017

The presence of pesticide residues in primary and derived agricultural products raises serious health concerns for consumers. The aim of this study was to assess the level of pesticide residues in commonly consumed fruits and vegetables in Kuwait. A total of 150 samples of different fresh vegetables and fruits were analyzed for the presence of 34 pesticides using the quick easy cheap effective rugged and safe (QuEChERS) multi-residue extraction, followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Pesticide residues above the maximum residue limits (MRL) were detected in 21% of the samples and 79% of the samples had no residues of the pesticides surveyed or contained residues below the MRL. Multiple residues were present in 40% of the samples with two to four pesticides, and four samples were contaminated with more than four pesticide residues. Of the pesticides investigated, 16 were detected, of which imidacloprid, deltamethrin, cypermethrin, malathion, acetamiprid, monocrotophos, chlorpyrifos-methyl, and diazinon exceeded their MRLs. Aldrin, an organochlorine pesticide, was detected in one apple sample, with residues below the MRL. The results indicate the occurrence of pesticide residues in commonly consumed fruits and vegetables in Kuwait, and pointed to an urgent need to develop comprehensive intervention measures to reduce the potential health risk to consumers. The need for the regular monitoring of pesticide residues and the sensitization of farmers to better pesticide safety practices, especially the need to adhere to recommended pre-harvest intervals is recommended.
Schools, Air Pollution, and Active Transportation: An Exploratory Spatial Analysis of Calgary, Canada
Authors: Bertazzon Stefania , Shahid Rizwan
Published: July 2017

An exploratory spatial analysis investigates the location of schools in Calgary (Canada) in relation to air pollution and active transportation options. Air pollution exhibits marked spatial variation throughout the city, along with distinct spatial patterns in summer and winter; however, all school locations lie within low to moderate pollution levels. Conversely, the study shows that almost half of the schools lie in low walkability locations; likewise, transitability is low for 60% of schools, and only bikability is widespread, with 93% of schools in very bikable locations. School locations are subsequently categorized by pollution exposure and active transportation options. This analysis identifies and maps schools according to two levels of concern: schools in car-dependent locations and relatively high pollution; and schools in locations conducive of active transportation, yet exposed to relatively high pollution. The findings can be mapped and effectively communicated to the public, health practitioners, and school boards. The study contributes with an explicitly spatial approach to the intra-urban public health literature. Developed for a moderately polluted city, the methods can be extended to more severely polluted environments, to assist in developing spatial public health policies to improve respiratory outcomes, neurodevelopment, and metabolic and attention disorders in school-aged children.
Utilization of High Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled to Tandem Mass Spectrometry for Characterization of 8-O-methylbostrycoidin Production by Species of the Fungus Fusarium
Authors: Busman Mark
Published: July 2017

The pigment 8-O-methylbostrycoidin is a polyketide metabolite produced by multiple species of the fungus Fusarium that infects plant crops, including maize. A technique was developed for the analysis of 8-O-methylbostrycoidin by high performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. The quantitative nature of the LC-MS/MS experiment was demonstrated over a range of concentrations in maize. Limits of detection for the method (10 ng/g from 8-O-methylbostrycoidin spiked into ground maize) were shown, and susceptibility of the method to matrix effects from maize was also evaluated. The method was applied to evaluate the ability of the maize pathogen Fusarium verticillioides to produce 8-O-methylbostrycoidin in developing maize ears grown in an agricultural field.
A Brief Review of OPT101 Sensor Application in Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Instrumentation for Intensive Care Unit Clinics
Authors: Li Ting , Zhong Fulin , Pan Boan , Li Zebin , Huang Chong , Deng Zishan
Published: July 2017

The optoelectronic sensor OPT101 have merits in advanced optoelectronic response characteristics at wavelength range for medical near-infrared spectroscopy and small-size chip design with build-in trans-impedance amplifier. Our lab is devoted to developing a series of portable near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) devices embedded with OPT101 for applications in intensive care unit clinics, based on NIRS principle. Here we review the characteristics and advantages of OPT101 relative to clinical NIRS instrumentation, and the most recent achievements, including early-diagnosis and therapeutic effect evaluation of thrombus, noninvasive monitoring of patients' shock severity, and fatigue evaluation. The future prospect on OPT101 improvements in noninvasive clinical applications is also discussed.
Photocatalyzed synthesis of isochromanones and isobenzofuranones under batch and flow conditions
Authors: Anselmo Manuel , Moni Lisa , Ismail Hossny , Comoretto Davide , Riva Renata , Basso Andrea
Published: July 2017

Photocatalyzed reactions of 2-(alkoxycarbonyl)benzenediazonium tetrafluoroborates with various alkenes afforded isochromanones in good yields, according to a mechanism that was investigated. The advantage of using highly soluble esters rather than carboxylic acids as starting compounds became evident when the reactions were performed under flow conditions. On the other hand, when 2-vinylbenzoic acid derivatives were employed as reagents, isobenzofuranones were obtained together with unprecedented benzo[e][1,3]oxazepin-1(5H)-ones, with the latter derived from incorporation of the solvent (acetonitrile).
Comparing Neutron Star Kicks to Supernova Remnant Asymmetries
Authors: Holland-Ashford Tyler , Lopez Laura A. , Auchettl Katie , Temim Tea , Ramirez-Ruiz Enrico
Published: July 2017

Supernova explosions are inherently asymmetric and can accelerate new-born neutron stars (NSs) to hundreds of km s−1. Two prevailing theories to explain NS kicks are ejecta asymmetries (e.g., conservation of momentum between NS and ejecta) and anisotropic neutrino emission. Observations of supernova remnants (SNRs) can give us insights into the mechanism that generates these NS kicks. In this paper, we investigate the relationship between NS kick velocities and the X-ray morphologies of 18 SNRs observed with the Chandra X-ray Observatory and the Röntgen Satellite (ROSAT). We measure SNR asymmetries using the power-ratio method (a multipole expansion technique), focusing on the dipole, quadrupole, and octupole power ratios. Our results show no correlation between the magnitude of the power ratios and NS kick velocities, but we find that for Cas A and G292.0+1.8, whose emission traces the ejecta distribution, their NSs are preferentially moving opposite to the bulk of the X-ray emission. In addition, we find a similar result for PKS 1209–51, CTB 109, and Puppis A; however, their emission is dominated by circumstellar/interstellar material, so their asymmetries may not reflect their ejecta distributions. Our results are consistent with the theory that NS kicks are a consequence of ejecta asymmetries as opposed to anisotropic neutrino emission. In the future, additional observations to measure NS proper motions within ejecta-dominated SNRs are necessary to robustly constrain the NS kick mechanism.
The High-redshift Clusters Occupied by Bent Radio AGN (COBRA) Survey: The Spitzer Catalog
Authors: Paterno-Mahler R. , Blanton E. L. , Brodwin M. , Ashby M. L. N. , Golden-Marx E. , Decker B. , Wing J. D. , Anand G.
Published: July 2017

We present 190 galaxy cluster candidates (most at high redshift) based on galaxy overdensity measurements in the Spitzer/IRAC imaging of the fields surrounding 646 bent, double-lobed radio sources drawn from the Clusters Occupied by Bent Radio AGN (COBRA) Survey. The COBRA sources were chosen as objects in the Very Large Array FIRST survey that lack optical counterparts in the Sloan Digital Sky Survey to a limit of m

r
 = 22, making them likely to lie at high redshift. This is confirmed by our observations: the redshift distribution of COBRA sources with estimated redshifts peaks near z = 1 and extends out to

. Cluster candidates were identified by comparing our target fields to a background field and searching for statistically significant (

) excesses in the galaxy number counts surrounding the radio sources; 190 fields satisfy the

limit. We find that 530 fields (82.0%) have a net positive excess of galaxies surrounding the radio source. Many of the fields with positive excesses but below the

cutoff are likely to be galaxy groups. Forty-one COBRA sources are quasars with known spectroscopic redshifts, which may be tracers of some of the most distant clusters known.
La composició de la versió catalana medieval del Tresor de pobres del ms. 864 de la Biblioteca de Catalunya. Anàlisi del contingut i edició de les receptes de confits
Authors: Santanach i Suñol Joan
Published: July 2017

[ca] El Thesaurus pauperum de Pere Hispà és un recull de receptes mèdiques que va gaudir d’una àmplia circulació fins al segle XVIII. El caràcter pràctic del text va afavorir que els usuaris hi afegissin nombroses receptes apòcrifes, tant dins de la tradició llatina com, una vegada traduïda l’obra, dins de la catalana. L’anàlisi del contingut de la versió que se’n conserva al ms. 864 de la Biblioteca de Catalunya permet reconstruir diverses etapes de la seva composició. Entre els afegits de l’obra, hi ha cinc receptes de confits redactades en català, fins ara inèdites.
Surface Characteristics of Base Metal Dental Alloys Processed by Alternative Procedures
Authors: Savencu Cristina , Porojan Liliana , Bîrdeanu Mihaela , Boloș Adrian , Porojan Sorin , Antoniac Aurora , Gradinaru Sebastian
Published: July 2017

Technological developments in the field of based metal alloys have led to the implementation of novel manufacturing processes in dental practice. The aim of the study was to evaluate surface characteristics of Co–Cr dental alloys fabricated via conventional casting, computerized milling, selective laser sintering and selective laser melting. The morphology and the topography of the samples were investigated by SEM / EDAX (Model INSPECT S) and AFM (Model Nanosurf® EasyScan 2 Advanced Research). Depending on the nature and chemical composition of the samples the morphology is different. The microstructure of Co–Cr dental alloys depends on the manufacturing technique. Given to the differences in microstructural properties among the tested specimens, further differences in their technological achievement and clinical behavior can be anticipated.
Finite Element Analysis for the Estimation of the Ground Reaction Force and Pressure Beneath the Foot Prosthesis during the Gait of Transfemoral Patients
Authors: Tuan Le Van , Ohnishi Kengo , Otsuka Hiroshi , Agarie Yukio , Yamamoto Shinichiro , Hanafusa Akihiko
Published: July 2017

Ground reaction forces (GRF) and pressure beneath the foot prosthesis are the main parameters used in biomechanical analysis to estimate the joint load and evaluate the quality of the prosthesis, especially with transfemoral patient who have amputation that occurs through the femur. The information of ground reaction forces and beneath pressure of foot prosthesis is conventionally achieved using dynamics method or the experimental method. However, these methods have some limitation for a prosthetist and designers to choose the best prosthesis solution for transfemoral patient. In the dynamics method, the deformation of the foot prosthesis and the variation in the shape of the residual limb in the socket is neglected and the center of gravity of the prosthesis component is estimated; thus, the method is less accurate because the prosthesis consists of several parts with different materials and shapes. The experimental method involves time and cost in setting-up the device. Data can be acquired only after the patient wears the prosthesis. In this study, the authors were implemented a finite element (FE) method for computing the GRF, and the pressure beneath the foot prosthesis and its distribution. The finite element model of all components of transfemoral of the prosthesis was created. The ground reaction forces, beneath pressure of foot prosthesis and other parameters were disclosed after solving by explicit solver of LS-Dyna software. The results of the vertical ground reaction forces exhibit consistently similar data between the simulation and the measurement. A correlation coefficient of 0.91 between them denotes their correspondence. The reaction force at knee joint, distribution of beneath pressure of foot prosthesis were included in results and discussion. These results can be used for prosthesis design and optimization; they can assist the prosthetist in selecting a comfortable prosthesis for the patient and in improving the rehabilitation training.
Electroluminescence Devices from Quantum Dots with TPD Polymer White Light Generation
Authors: Akeel M.K. , Ibrahim Omar A. , Saleh Wasan R.
Published: July 2017

Quantum dots of CdSe, CdS and ZnS QDs were prepared by chemical reaction and used to fabricate organic quantum dot hybrid junction device. QD-LEDs were fabricated using ITO/TPD: PMMA/CdSe/Al, ITO/TPD: PMMA/CdS/Al and ITO/TPD: PMMA/ZnS/Al QDs devices which synthesized by phase segregation method. The hybrid white light emitting devices consists, of two-layers deposited successively on the ITO glass substrate; the first layer was of N, N’-bis (3-methylphenyl)-N, N’-bis (phenyl) benzidine (TPD) polymer mixed with polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) polymers in ratio 1:1, while the second layer was 0.5wt% from each type of the (CdSe, CdS and ZnS) QDs for each device.The optical properties of QDs were characterized by UV-Vis. and photoluminescence (PL) spectrometer. The results show that the prepared QDs were nanocrystalline with defects formation. The Eg calculated from PL were 2.38, 2.69 and 3.64 eV for CdSe, CdS and ZnS respectively. The generated white light properties with acceptable efficiency using confinement effect that makes the energy gap larger, thus the direction of the light sites are toward the centre of white light color.The hybrid junction devices (EL devices) were characterized by room temperature PL and electroluminescence (EL). Current-voltage (I–V) characteristics indicate that the output current is good compared to the few voltages ( 8-11.5 V) used which gives acceptable results to get a generation of white light. The EL spectrum reveals a broad emission band covering the range from 350 - 700 nm. The emissions causing this white luminescence were identified depending on the chromaticity coordinates (CIE 1931). The correlated color temperature (CCT) was found to be about 5500, 4885 and 3400K respectively. Fabrication of EL-devices from semiconductors material (CdSe, CdS and ZnS QDs) with hole injection organic polymer (TPD) was effective in white light generation. The recombination processes and I-V characteristics gives rises to the output current is good compared to the few voltages used which gives acceptable results to get a generation of white light.
CdTe/PbTe Superlattice Modeling and Fabrication for Solar Cells Applications
Authors: Kabalan Amal A. , Singh Pritpal
Published: July 2017

Tuning the bandgap of superlattice structures creates devices with unique optical, electronic and mechanical properties. Designing solar cells with superlattice structures increases the range of light energy absorbed from the solar spectrum in the device. A superlattice is a nanostructure composed of alternating thin layers of two materials. The thickness of the constituent materials alters the optical bandgap of the superlattice. This paper discusses a mathematical model which computes the effective bandgap of a CdTe/PbTe superlattice based on a given thickness of the CdTe and PbTe films. The output of this model is verified by fabricating superlattices with different thickness and measuring their effective bandgaps. The electrochemical atomic layer deposition method is used to fabricate the superlattice structures. The advantage of this method over other vacuum techniques is that it is inexpensive and operates at room temperature. This paper also discusses a method to mitigate the lattice mismatch between the substrate and the superlattice. The optical bandgaps, crystallinity, grain size and chemical composition of the structures are measured using a spectrometer, diffractometer, transmission electron microscope and scanning electron microscope, respectively. The bandgaps of the fabricated superlattices were in agreement with the simulated values. This model can be used for designing the bandgaps of superlattices which can be incorporated in solar cells.
Synthesis of Poly(Methyl Methacrylate)-Caprolactam-Sericin Nanoparticles and their Reinforcing Effect on Mechanical Properties of Natural Rubber
Authors: Zhao Wei Ru , Tian Xiao Hui , Sun Jin Yu , Zhang Kun Tao , Yuan Yi Zhong
Published: July 2017

Two core-shell structure poly methyl methacrylate-caprolactam (PMMA-CPL) and poly methyl methacrylate-caprolactam-sericin (PMMA-CPL-SS) nanoparticles were synthesized by emulsion polymerization. A latex blending process was performed on preparation of natural rubber (NR) blends, NR/PMMA-CPL and NR/PMMA-CPL-SS. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images showed that PMMA-CPL and PMMA-CPL-SS nanoparticles covering on the surface of NR particles homogeneously. SEM, AFM, ATR-FTIR and DSC were used to compare the difference between NR/PMMA-CPL-SS and NR/PMMA-CPL. The results showed that addition of SS improved the smoothness and reduced the amount of incompatible particles on the surface of NR/PMMA-CPL-SS film. Due to the introduction of CPL and SS, the number of escaping particles on the surface of NR was decreased during film forming process and the Tg of NR shifted to a higher temperature. The results indicated that the interfacial adhesion and compatibility of PMMA and NR were improved. Mechanical testing showed that PMMA-CPL nanoparticles could improve the mechanical property of NR. When the content of PMMA-CPL-SS was 10%, the tensile strength of NR/PMMA-CPL-SS film was increased by 19.6% compared to NR/PMMA-CPL. Moreover, the NR/PMMA-CPL-SS film exhibited a higher hydrophilic property after modification with PMMA-CPL-SS nanoparticles.
Quick and Sensitive Detection of Prion Disease-Associated Isoform (PrPSc) Using a Novel Gold Surface/PrPSc/Gold Nanoparticles Sandwich SPR Detection Assay
Authors: Lou Zhi Chao , Sun Jin Qiang , Wan Jin Feng , Zhang Xiao Hong , Zhang Hai Qian , Gu Ning
Published: July 2017

Prion protein has drawn great attention due to its pathological potential to prion diseases. Discriminate and detection of the trace quantities PrPSc is an important measure for prion disease diagnosis at the presymptomatic stage. In this study, we developed a novel sandwich surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay for the detection of PrPSc, involving bare gold surfaces and bare gold nanoparticles. PrPSc can be captured by the SPR sensing surface via a surface assisted coupling reaction between its intra-molecular disulfide bond and the gold atoms, while PrPC cannot bind to the gold surface strongly. The gold nanoparticles were proved to amplify the SPR detection signals via the coupling of their localized surface plasmon (LSP) with the propagating plasmon on the SPR gold surface. Our results confirmed that the bare SPR gold surface successfully captured the PrPSc from the solution with a LOD of 0.5ng/mL and a linear detection range from 0.5ng/mL to 500ng/mL. Injecting the gold nanoparticles after PrPSc yielded a dramatic enhancement of signal, with a lower LOD of 0.001ng/mL and a linear detection range from 0.001ng/mL to 10ng/mL. The gold nanoparticles permitted 4 to 322-fold increase of the signals. The required detection time was controlled in 15 min. PrPC, cys-protein G and their mixtures with PrPSc, were also detected via this sandwich SPR detection assay. Atomic force microscope (AFM) was used to evaluate the surface morphology of the SPR gold substrate after the detection. All the obtained results suggested that this novel SPR sandwich detection assay in our work was efficient, sensitive and specific for the detection of trace PrPSc
Grain Size Effect on Mechanical Behavior of Nanocrystalline Alloy Films
Authors: Ma Bing Yang , Shi Kai Cheng , Shang Hai Long , Qi Jin Yan , Li Rong Bn , Li Ge Yang
Published: July 2017

The effect of grain size in nanocrystalline alloys is difficult to analyze because challenges of controlling a number of other microstructure factors. This paper designed and prepared a series of multilayered films with Al-Zr crystalline layers of different thickness but with amorphous layers of identical thickness. In these multilayered films, the heights of columnar crystals in crystalline layers were controlled from 5 to 160 nm and their diameters were kept at 10 to 15 nm, independent of their heights. This design achieved the control of grain size, independent from other microstructure factors. The analysis of mechanical properties of these multilayered films showed that the inverse Hall-Petch phenomenon also exists in Al-Zr nanocrystalline alloys. The critical grain sizes of deviation from the Hall-Petch relationship and the inverse Hall-Petch phenomenon are approximately 40 nm and 10 nm respectively. These mechanical behaviors of nanocrystalline alloys are similar to those reported in pure metals.
Theoretical Study of CN Radicals Chemisorption on the Electronic Properties of BC2N Nanotube
Authors: Makiabadi Batoul , Zakarianezhad Mohammad , Mohammadzamani Shahin
Published: July 2017

In this work, we have investigated the adsorption behavior of the CN radicals on electronic properties of BC2N nanotube (BC2NNT) by means of the B3LYP hybrid density functional method using 6-31G(d) basis set. The results show that CN radicals can be chemically adsorbed on the nanotube. Based on the energy analysis, the most stable position of CN radical on the nanotube is C1 site. Also, the C-side complexes are more stable than the N-side complexes. We investigated the effects of CN radicals adsorption on the electronic properties of the BC2N nanotube. According to our calculations, band gap energy of the BC2NNT decreases with increasing the number of CN radicals. It is predicted that the conductivity and reactivity of nanotube increase by increasing the number of CN radicals. Based on the NBO analysis, in all complexes charge transfer occurs from nanotube to CN radical. The AIM results show that, the Xtube…YCN interaction has covalent nature. Generally, The BC2N nanotube can be used to as sensor for nanodevice applications.
CXCL1 and CXCL2 Regulate NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation via G-Protein–Coupled Receptor CXCR2
Authors: Boro Monoranjan , Balaji Kithiganahalli Narayanaswamy
Published: July 2017

Inflammation is an extensively concerted process that confers protection to the host encountering immune insult. The major inflammatory mediators include IL-1 family members, such as IL-1β, and the functional activation of such molecules is arbitrated by their regulated cleavage brought about by components of a multiprotein complex called inflammasome. In this context, NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation often acts as a rate-limiting step in regulating critical cell-fate decisions in various inflammatory scenarios. In this study, we identify the G-protein–coupled receptor CXCR2 (recognizing chemokines CXCL1 and CXCL2) as another arm feeding into the regulated activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in macrophages. We demonstrate that in vivo blocking of CXCL1 and CXCL2 can significantly reduce the Mycobacterium tuberculosis–induced bioactive IL-1β production. Further, CXCL1 could amplify the inflammasome activation in in vivo mouse models of carrageenan-induced inflammation in footpads and air pouches. The mechanistic insights revealed CXCR2-driven protein kinase C μ–dependent integrin-linked kinase to be essential for CXCL1-mediated activation of NLRP3 inflammasome. Blocking the activity of integrin-linked kinase or protein kinase C μ either by small interfering RNA–mediated knockdown or pharmacological inhibitor compromised inflammasome activation and subsequent production of bioactive IL-1β. Taken together, our study demonstrates CXCR2-driven activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in macrophages and indicates a potential host-directed therapeutic target to limit the damaging inflammation associated with overt production of proinflammatory IL-1β.
Lie algebras and torsion groups with identity
Authors: Zelmanov Efim
Published: July 2017

We prove that a finitely generated Lie algebra

L

such that (i) every commutator in generators is ad-nilpotent, and (ii)

L

satisfies a polynomial identity, is nilpotent. As a corollary we get that a finitely generated residually-

p

torsion group whose pro-

p

completion satisfies a pro-

p

identity is finite.
Molecular Characterization of a Cluster of Imported Malaria Cases in Puerto Rico
Authors: Chenet Stella M. , Silva-Flannery Luciana , Lucchi Naomi W. , Dragan Ljolje , Dirlikov Emilio , Mace Kimberly , Rivera-García Brenda , Arguin Paul M. , Udhayakumar Venkatachalam
Published: July 2017

The Caribbean island of Hispaniola is targeted for malaria elimination. Currently, this is the only island with ongoing transmission of malaria in the Caribbean. In 2015, six patients from Puerto Rico and one from Massachusetts, who traveled to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, were confirmed to be infected with Plasmodium falciparum. Additional molecular analysis was performed at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to characterize the drug-resistant alleles and Plasmodium population genetic markers. All specimens carried wildtype genotypes for chloroquine, sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine, and artemisinin resistance genetic markers. A mutation in codon 184 (Y/F) of Pfmdr-1 gene was observed in all samples and they shared an identical genetic lineage as determined by microsatellite analysis. This genetic profile was similar to one previously reported from Hispaniola suggesting that a clonal P. falciparum residual parasite population present in Punta Cana is the source population for these imported malaria cases.
Outbreak of Sudden Death with Acute Encephalitis Syndrome Among Children Associated with Exposure to Lychee Orchards in Northern Bangladesh, 2012
Authors: Islam Mohammed Saiful , Sharif Ahmad Raihan , Sazzad Hossain M. S. , Khan A. K. M. Dawlat , Hasan Murshid , Akter Shirina , Rahman Mahmudur , Luby Stephen P. , Heffelfinger James D. , Gurley Emily S.
Published: July 2017

Recurrent outbreaks of acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) among children in lychee growing areas in Asia highlight the need to better understand the etiology and the context. We conducted a mixed-methods study to identify risk factors for disease, and behaviors and practices around lychee cultivation in an AES outbreak community in northern Bangladesh in 2012. The outbreak affected 14 children; 13 died. The major symptoms included unconsciousness, convulsion, excessive sweating, and frothy discharge. The median time from illness onset to unconsciousness was 2.5 hours. The outbreak corresponded with lychee harvesting season. Multiple pesticides including some banned in Bangladesh were frequently used in the orchards. Visiting a lychee orchard within 24 hours before onset (age-adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 11.6 [1.02–109.8]) and 3 days (aOR = 7.2 [1.4–37.6]), and family members working in a lychee orchard (aOR = 7.2 [1.7–29.4]) and visiting any garden while pesticides were being applied (aOR = 4.9 [1.0–19.4]) in 3 days preceding illness onset were associated with illness in nearby village analysis. In neighborhood analysis, visiting an orchard that used pesticides (aOR = 8.4 [1.4–49.9]) within 3 days preceding illness onset was associated with illness. Eating lychees was not associated with illness in the case–control study. The outbreak was linked to lychee orchard exposures where agrochemicals were routinely used, but not to consumption of lychees. Lack of acute specimens was a major limitation. Future studies should target collection of environmental and food samples, acute specimens, and rigorous assessment of community use of pesticides to determine etiology.
Case Report: Successful Lung Transplantation from a Donor Seropositive for Trypanosoma cruzi Infection (Chagas Disease) to a Seronegative Recipient
Authors: Salvador Fernando , Sánchez-Montalvá Adrián , Sulleiro Elena , Berastegui Cristina , Jauregui Alberto , Pont Teresa , Los-Arcos Ibai , Len Óscar , Gavaldà Joan , Molina Israel
Published: July 2017

The increasing shortage of organs for transplantation has prompted transplant programs to investigate the use of extended criteria donors, such as those with transmissible infectious diseases. Successful cases of organ transplantation (mostly kidney and liver) from Trypanosoma cruzi seropositive donors to seronegative recipients have been reported. We present a case of lung transplantation from a donor serologically positive for Chagas disease to a seronegative recipient, and provide a review of the literature. Left single lung transplantation was performed in a 44-year-old Spanish woman presenting with interstitial lung disease in February 2016. The deceased donor was a Colombian immigrant living in Spain who was serologically positive for Chagas disease. Oral administration of 5 mg/kg/day benznidazole divided in three doses for 60 days was given for specific Chagas disease prophylaxis after transplantation. Periodic follow-up with serological reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction to detect T. cruzi DNA were performed until 6 months after the end of treatment. All results were negative, indicating that transmission of T. cruzi had not occurred. In a review of the literature, two similar cases were identified in Argentina and the United States. In both cases T. cruzi infection was detected posttransplant in the recipients, after which they were treated with benznidazole. The course of the patient described herein confirms that lungs from donors with chronic T. cruzi infection can be used successfully as allografts, and that posttransplant prophylaxis with benznidazole may reduce the probability of transmission of T. cruzi to the recipient.
O conceito de experiência em Walter Benjamin: elementos para pensar a educação na infância
Authors: Lessa Juliana Schumacker
Published: July 2017

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/1980-4512.2016v18n33p108O presente artigo é resultante de um estudo teórico sobre o conceito de experiência, discutido, analisado e re etido durante a realização de um seminário especial e nas reuniões de estudos mensais em grupo de pesquisa. As discussões se localizam no bojo da reflexão sobre a experiência da infância na modernidade, na interlocução com Walter Benjamin. Primeiramente, o texto se dedica a localizar como a noção de experiência se situa no interior da área da educação na infância, com particular ênfase sobre as propostas educativas. Num segundo momento, apresento como as ideias de infância e história são concebidas na perspectiva materialista-histórica de Benjamin para, posteriormente, adentrar na reflexão sobre o conceito de experiência do autor, considerando a imbricação das noções de infância e história na compreensão deste conceito, especialmente, na reflexão sobre a experiência na infância contemporânea.
Os usos sociais dos livros no dia a dia do Jardim de Infância
Authors: Bolgenhagen Silvani Kempf , Ferreira Manuela
Published: July 2017

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/1980-4512.2016v18n33p3O artigo surgiu a partir de uma dissertação de Mestrado na Universidade do Porto em Portugal, esta pesquisa teve como objetivo compreender a importância dos livros no cotidiano do Jardim de Infância, no que tange aos usos e relações que se estabelecem através deles, quer pelo adulto nas suas interações com as crianças; quer pelas crianças em relação ao adulto, quer pelas crianças entre si. O estudo pautou-se nos pressupostos teóricos da Sociologia da Infância, principalmente a abordagem das crianças como atores sociais históricos, com a sua própria forma de interpretar o mundo e que, socializando com adultos e outras crianças em torno dos usos dos livros no quotidiano do Jardim de Infância, ali produzem e desenvolvem culturas infantis A coleta dos dados se deu através da observação participante de inspiração etnográfica com crianças de 4-5 anos num Jardim de infância na área metropolitana do Porto permitiu constatar que a maioria dos usos sociais que a educadora fez dos livros i) visaram todo o grupo de crianças; ii) o recurso frequente de estratégias pedagógicas que dialogavam com determinados aspectos das culturas infantis. Por parte das crianças, constataram-se i) usos individuais dos livros, envolvendo o manuseamento, folheio, observação e interpretação de imagens e exploração de dispositivos e ii) usos colectivos de livros em que se destaca o seu uso na reprodução interpretativa do contar/ler histórias e em brincadeiras lúdicas.
Formação de professores de língua inglesa a distância: atividades de reflexão em fóruns de discussão
Authors: Costa Ribas Fernanda
Published: July 2017

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/1984-8412.2016v13n1p1037Neste artigo, problematizo questões relativas à formação de professores de língua inglesa, em meio à emersão de novos letramentos, principalmente mediados por tecnologias digitais, a partir de minha experiência como professora e pesquisadora em Cursos de Licenciatura em Letras, nas modalidades presencial e a distância. Embasando-me em referenciais sobre crenças de professores, prática reflexiva, novos letramentos e formação de professores para o uso de tecnologias, focalizo minha experiência de elaboração de material instrucional para um Curso de Graduação em Letras, na modalidade a distância, descrevendo algumas atividades desenvolvidas sob a forma de fóruns de discussão. Assim, objetivo discutir maneiras de promover a reflexão de futuros professores sobre suas crenças e experiências, e a integração dessas com conceitos e teorias de ensino, permitindo que estabeleçam ligações entre teoria e prática, na prática, ou seja, por meio de sua participação em atividades online de uma disciplina de Estágio Supervisionado em Língua Inglesa.
A interface cognitiva nos processos de categorização e construção de identidades
Authors: De Lima Cordeiro Maria Sirleidy , T. Melo Guimarães Lílian Noemia
Published: July 2017

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/1984-8412.2016v13n1p1094O artigo visa analisar as identidades atribuídas aos atores sociais participantes do Movimento Passe Livre no Brasil; e investigar como eles são categorizados pelo discurso noticioso. Fundamentamo-nos no argumento de que as categorias são marcadas por uma “instabilidade constitutiva”, ou seja, transformam-se a partir dos contextos (MONDADA; DUBOIS, 2003). Sobre o tema contexto, baseamo-nos nos pressupostos da Sociocognição. Isso proporciona que haja uma interface cognitiva entre categorização e construção de identidades. Analisamos notícias de divulgação on-line sobre o Movimento Passe Livre. Percebemos que, mesmo que haja uma mudança na categorização atribuída aos atores sociais do movimento, as categorias nominadas pelo discurso das notícias possibilitaram uma maior visibilidade social de imagens negativas desses grupos. O contexto foi considerado, nesses termos, como um dos elementos chave para que as categorizações e atribuições identitárias ocorressem.
A construção de objetos de discurso nas práticas conversacionais de um grupo de convivência de afásicos
Authors: Mira Caio
Published: July 2017

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/1984-8412.2016v13n2p1131O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar excertos de uma interação de um grupo de convivência entre afásicos e não afásicos para demonstrar a construção de objetos de discurso em situações conversacionais. Para alcançarmos esse objetivo, a abordagem teórica deste trabalho está baseada na Análise da Conversação de enfoque textual-interativo. Os excertos analisados demonstram que os participantes afásicos do grupo, ao serem inseridos em situações conversacionais, lançam mão de recursos referenciais e interacionais, contribuindo para a construção de objetos de discurso e o gerenciamento do tópico. Os resultados de nossas análises possibilitam evidenciar os aspectos linguístico-interacionais das situações conversacionais do grupo de convivência de afásicos e não somente o déficit linguístico ocasionado pela afasia.
O modelo cognitivo idealizado da ansiedade e a metáfora da encomenda
Authors: Costa Jr. Daniel Felix da
Published: July 2017

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/1984-8412.2016v13n2p1169Este artigo tematiza a conceptualização da ansiedade no contexto do português brasileiro. A abordagem é centrada na Linguística Cognitiva e nos procedimentos metodológicos do MIP1. O corpus dividiu-se em: a) textos de jornais on-line; e b) segmentos selecionados de buscadores eletrônicos. As unidades lexicais metafóricas foram identificadas em dois frames: o da emoção e o da doença. Os conceitos que se relacionaram à ansiedade foram: o almejo, o temor e a expectativa. Tais conceitos indicaram que a ansiedade patológica é determinada pela conjunção de expectativa e temor, enquanto que a ansiedade emocional pode ser determinada pela mesma conjunção ou pela conjunção de almejo e expectativa. Há uma noção de espacialização do tempo (TEMPO É ESPAÇO) e uma noção de entificação dos eventos (EVENTOS SÃO OBJETOS). Juntas, essas conceptualizações sugerem um estado mental que é subestruturado pelos elementos “sujeito receptor” e “objeto da encomenda”.
Este aqui é best-seller! Mas... quem é o autor?
Authors: Ferreira Anderson
Published: July 2017

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/1984-8412.2016v13n3p1430Os best-sellers têm sido objeto recorrente nos estudos de comunicação, cuja ênfase é bipartida, relacionando defeitos éticos, estéticos e de linguagem, com fatores externos. À parte disso, esse artigo visa a analisar a noção de autor em uma web manchete sobre o livro de Paulo Leminski. Objetiva-se examinar a noção de função-autor por meio do nome do autor na amostra escolhida. Para tanto, selecionamos uma webmanchete da expressiva venda do livro Toda Poesia de Leminski. Em vista da insuficiência da aplicabilidade da função-autor proposta por Foucault (2009) no enunciado por nós selecionado, recorremos aos estudos de Maingueneau (2010) atinentes à noção de autor e sua tridimensionalidade.
Pensamento e palavra em Lev S. Vigoski
Authors: Ponzio Augusto , Cerutti-Rizzatti [Tradução] Mary Elizabeth , Brazzarola [Tradução] Giorgia
Published: July 2017

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/1984-8412.2016v13n4p1550Tradução do ensaio Pensiero e parola in Lev S. Vygoskij, de Augusto Ponzio, realizada por Mary Elizabeth Cerutti-Rizzatti e Giorgia Brazzarola.