bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combination of Morroniside and Diosgenin Prevents High Glucose-Induced Cardiomyocytes Apoptosis
Authors: Pi Wen-Xia , Feng Xiao-Peng , Ye Li-Hong , Cai Bao-Chang
Published: January 2017

Cornus officinalis and Dioscorea opposita are two traditional Chinese medicines widely used in China for treating diabetes mellitus and its complications, such as diabetic cardiomyopathy. Morroniside (Mor) of Cornus officinalis and diosgenin (Dio) of Dioscorea opposita formed an innovative formula named M + D. The aims of the present study were to investigate myocardial protective effect of M + D on diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) through the inhibition of expression levels of caspase-3 protein, and identify the advantage of M + D compared with Mor, Dio, and the positive drug metformin (Met). We detected cell viability, cell apoptosis, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and the expression levels of Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3 protein in rat cardiomyocytes. In result, Mor, Dio, and M + D increased cell viability, inhibited cell apoptosis and decreased ROS levels. Additionally, the expression of Bax and Bcl-2 protein was modulated and the expression levels of caspase-3 protein were markedly decreased. Among the treatment groups, M + D produced the most prominent effects. In conclusion, our data showed for the first time that Mor, Dio, and M + D prevented high glucose (HG)-induced myocardial injury by reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis in rat cardiomyocytes. Among all the groups, M + D produced the strongest effect, while Mor and Dio produced weaker effects.
Satellite Attitude Determination and Map Projection Based on Robust Image Matching
Authors: Kouyama Toru , Kanemura Atsunori , Kato Soushi , Imamoglu Nevrez , Fukuhara Tetsuya , Nakamura Ryosuke
Published: January 2017

Small satellites have limited payload and their attitudes are sometimes difficult to determine from the limited onboard sensors alone. Wrong attitudes lead to inaccurate map projections and measurements that require post-processing correction. In this study, we propose an automated and robust scheme that derives the satellite attitude from its observation images and known satellite position by matching land features from an observed image and from well-registered base-map images. The scheme combines computer vision algorithms (i.e., feature detection, and robust optimization) and geometrical constraints of the satellite observation. Applying the proposed method to UNIFORM-1 observations, which is a 50 kg class small satellite, satellite attitudes were determined with an accuracy of 0.02°, comparable to that of star trackers, if the satellite position is accurately determined. Map-projected images can be generated based on the accurate attitudes. Errors in the satellite position can add systematic errors to derived attitudes. The proposed scheme focuses on determining satellite attitude with feature detection algorithms applying to raw satellite images, unlike image registration studies which register already map-projected images. By delivering accurate attitude determination and map projection, the proposed method can improve the image geometries of small satellites, and thus reveal fine-scale information about the Earth.
Value-Based Caching in Information-Centric Wireless Body Area Networks
Authors: Al-Turjman Fadi , Imran Muhammad , Vasilakos Athanasios
Published: January 2017

We propose a resilient cache replacement approach based on a Value of sensed Information (VoI) policy. To resolve and fetch content when the origin is not available due to isolated in-network nodes (fragmentation) and harsh operational conditions, we exploit a content caching approach. Our approach depends on four functional parameters in sensory Wireless Body Area Networks (WBANs). These four parameters are: age of data based on periodic request, popularity of on-demand requests, communication interference cost, and the duration for which the sensor node is required to operate in active mode to capture the sensed readings. These parameters are considered together to assign a value to the cached data to retain the most valuable information in the cache for prolonged time periods. The higher the value, the longer the duration for which the data will be retained in the cache. This caching strategy provides significant availability for most valuable and difficult to retrieve data in the WBANs. Extensive simulations are performed to compare the proposed scheme against other significant caching schemes in the literature while varying critical aspects in WBANs (e.g., data popularity, cache size, publisher load, connectivity-degree, and severe probabilities of node failures). These simulation results indicate that the proposed VoI-based approach is a valid tool for the retrieval of cached content in disruptive and challenging scenarios, such as the one experienced in WBANs, since it allows the retrieval of content for a long period even while experiencing severe in-network node failures.
Significant Change Spotting for Periodic Human Motion Segmentation of Cleaning Tasks Using Wearable Sensors
Authors: Liu Kai-Chun , Chan Chia-Tai
Published: January 2017

The proportion of the aging population is rapidly increasing around the world, which will cause stress on society and healthcare systems. In recent years, advances in technology have created new opportunities for automatic activities of daily living (ADL) monitoring to improve the quality of life and provide adequate medical service for the elderly. Such automatic ADL monitoring requires reliable ADL information on a fine-grained level, especially for the status of interaction between body gestures and the environment in the real-world. In this work, we propose a significant change spotting mechanism for periodic human motion segmentation during cleaning task performance. A novel approach is proposed based on the search for a significant change of gestures, which can manage critical technical issues in activity recognition, such as continuous data segmentation, individual variance, and category ambiguity. Three typical machine learning classification algorithms are utilized for the identification of the significant change candidate, including a Support Vector Machine (SVM), k-Nearest Neighbors (kNN), and Naive Bayesian (NB) algorithm. Overall, the proposed approach achieves 96.41% in the F1-score by using the SVM classifier. The results show that the proposed approach can fulfill the requirement of fine-grained human motion segmentation for automatic ADL monitoring.
A Low-Complexity Method for Two-Dimensional Direction-of-Arrival Estimation Using an L-Shaped Array
Authors: Wang Qing , Yang Hang , Chen Hua , Dong Yangyang , Wang Laihua
Published: January 2017

In this paper, a new low-complexity method for two-dimensional (2D) direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation is proposed. Based on a cross-correlation matrix formed from the L-shaped array, the proposed algorithm obtains the automatic pairing elevation and azimuth angles without eigendecomposition, which can avoid high computational cost. In addition, the cross-correlation matrix eliminates the effect of noise, which can achieve better DOA performance. Then, the theoretical error of the algorithm is analyzed and the Cramer–Rao bound (CRB) for the direction of arrival estimation is derived . Simulation results demonstrate that, at low signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) and with a small number of snapshots, in contrast to Tayem’s algorithm and Kikuchi’s algorithm, the proposed algorithm achieves better DOA performance with lower complexity, while, for Gu’s algorithm, the proposed algorithm has slightly inferior DOA performance but with significantly lower complexity.
Au-Graphene Hybrid Plasmonic Nanostructure Sensor Based on Intensity Shift
Authors: Alharbi Raed , Irannejad Mehrdad , Yavuz Mustafa
Published: January 2017

Integrating plasmonic materials, like gold with a two-dimensional material (e.g., graphene) enhances the light-material interaction and, hence, plasmonic properties of the metallic nanostructure. A localized surface plasmon resonance sensor is an effective platform for biomarker detection. They offer a better bulk surface (local) sensitivity than a regular surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor; however, they suffer from a lower figure of merit compared to that one in a propagating surface plasmon resonance sensors. In this work, a decorated multilayer graphene film with an Au nanostructures was proposed as a liquid sensor. The results showed a significant improvement in the figure of merit compared with other reported localized surface plasmon resonance sensors. The maximum figure of merit and intensity sensitivity of 240 and 55 RIU−1 (refractive index unit) at refractive index change of 0.001 were achieved which indicate the capability of the proposed sensor to detect a small change in concentration of liquids in the ng/mL level which is essential in early-stage cancer disease detection.
Novel Isoprene Sensor for a Flu Virus Breath Monitor
Authors: Gouma Pelagia-Irene , Wang Lisheng , Simon Sanford , Stanacevic Milutin
Published: January 2017

A common feature of the inflammatory response in patients who have actually contracted influenza is the generation of a number of volatile products of the alveolar and airway epithelium. These products include a number of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitric oxide (NO). These may be used as biomarkers to detect the disease. A portable 3-sensor array microsystem-based tool that can potentially detect flu infection biomarkers is described here. Whether used in connection with in-vitro cell culture studies or as a single exhale breathalyzer, this device may be used to provide a rapid and non-invasive screening method for flu and other virus-based epidemics.
Generalized Null 2-Type Surfaces in Minkowski 3-Space
Authors: Yoon Dae , Kim Dong-Soo , Kim Young , Lee Jae
Published: January 2017

For the mean curvature vector field H and the Laplace operator Δ of a submanifold in the Minkowski space, a submanifold satisfying the condition Δ H = f H + g C is known as a generalized null 2-type, where f and g are smooth functions, and C is a constant vector. The notion of generalized null 2-type submanifolds is a generalization of null 2-type submanifolds defined by B.-Y. Chen. In this paper, we study flat surfaces in the Minkowski 3-space L 3 and classify generalized null 2-type flat surfaces. In addition, we show that the only generalized null 2-type null scroll in L 3 is a B-scroll.
Estimation of Particulate Matter Impact on Human Health within the Urban Environment of Athens City, Greece
Authors: Moustris Konstantinos , Ntourou Kleopatra , Nastos Panagiotis
Published: January 2017

The main objective of this work is the assessment of the annual number of hospital admissions for respiratory diseases (HARD) due to the exposure to inhalable particulate matter (PM10), within the greater Athens area (GAA), Greece. To achieve this aim, on the one hand, time series of the particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter less than 10 μm (PM10) recorded in six monitoring stations located in the GAA, for a 13-year period 2001–2013, have been statistically analyzed. On the other hand, the AirQ2.2.3 software developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) was used to evaluate adverse health effects by PM10 in the GAA during the examined period. The results show that, during the examined period, PM10 concentrations present a significant decreasing trend. Also, the mean annual HARD cases per 100,000 inhabitants ranged between 20 (suburban area) and 40 (city center area). Approximately 70% of the annual HARD cases are due to city center residents. In all examined sites, a declining trend in the annual number of HARD cases appears. Moreover, a strong relation between the annual number of HARD cases and the annual number of days exceeding the European Union daily PM10 threshold value was found.
Promoter Motifs in NCLDVs: An Evolutionary Perspective
Authors: Oliveira Graziele , Andrade Ana , Rodrigues Rodrigo , Arantes Thalita , Boratto Paulo , Silva Ludmila , Dornas Fábio , Trindade Giliane , Drumond Betânia , La Scola Bernard , Kroon Erna , Abrahão Jônatas
Published: January 2017

For many years, gene expression in the three cellular domains has been studied in an attempt to discover sequences associated with the regulation of the transcription process. Some specific transcriptional features were described in viruses, although few studies have been devoted to understanding the evolutionary aspects related to the spread of promoter motifs through related viral families. The discovery of giant viruses and the proposition of the new viral order Megavirales that comprise a monophyletic group, named nucleo-cytoplasmic large DNA viruses (NCLDV), raised new questions in the field. Some putative promoter sequences have already been described for some NCLDV members, bringing new insights into the evolutionary history of these complex microorganisms. In this review, we summarize the main aspects of the transcription regulation process in the three domains of life, followed by a systematic description of what is currently known about promoter regions in several NCLDVs. We also discuss how the analysis of the promoter sequences could bring new ideas about the giant viruses’ evolution. Finally, considering a possible common ancestor for the NCLDV group, we discussed possible promoters’ evolutionary scenarios and propose the term “MEGA-box” to designate an ancestor promoter motif (‘TATATAAAATTGA’) that could be evolved gradually by nucleotides’ gain and loss and point mutations.
A Glimpse of Nucleo-Cytoplasmic Large DNA Virus Biodiversity through the Eukaryotic Genomics Window
Authors: Gallot-Lavallée Lucie , Blanc Guillaume
Published: January 2017

The nucleocytoplasmic large DNA viruses (NCLDV) are a group of extremely complex double-stranded DNA viruses, which are major parasites of a variety of eukaryotes. Recent studies showed that certain eukaryotes contain fragments of NCLDV DNA integrated in their genome, when surprisingly many of these organisms were not previously shown to be infected by NCLDVs. We performed an update survey of NCLDV genes hidden in eukaryotic sequences to measure the incidence of this phenomenon in common public sequence databases. A total of 66 eukaryotic genomic or transcriptomic datasets—many of which are from algae and aquatic protists—contained at least one of the five most consistently conserved NCLDV core genes. Phylogenetic study of the eukaryotic NCLDV-like sequences identified putative new members of already recognized viral families, as well as members of as yet unknown viral clades. Genomic evidence suggested that most of these sequences resulted from viral DNA integrations rather than contaminating viruses. Furthermore, the nature of the inserted viral genes helped predicting original functional capacities of the donor viruses. These insights confirm that genomic insertions of NCLDV DNA are common in eukaryotes and can be exploited to delineate the contours of NCLDV biodiversity.
Effect of Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate-Platelet-Rich Plasma on Tendon-Derived Stem Cells and Rotator Cuff Tendon Tear
Authors: Kim Sun Jeong , Song Da Hyun , Park Jong Wook , Park Silvia , Kim Sang Jun
Published: January 2017

Bone marrow aspirate concentrates (BMACs) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are good sources to control the differentiation of tendon-derived stem cells (TDSCs), but there has been no study about the effect of the BMAC–PRP complex on TDSCs and tendinopathy. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of BMAC–PRP on the TDSCs and to find the therapeutic effect of BMAC–PRP on the rotator cuff tendon tear. The chondrogenic and osteogenic potential of TDSCs decreased, but the adipogenic potential of TDSCs revealed no significant difference when they were cocultured with BMAC–PRP. Cell proliferation was significantly greater in TDSCs cocultured with BMAC–PRP than in TDSCs. The degree of wound closure (percentage) was different between TDSCs and TDSCs with BMAC–PRP. There was no significant difference in expression of collagen type I and type III in immunocytochemical staining in the presence of BMAC–PRP. Initial visual analog scale (VAS) score was 5.8±1.9, which changed to 5.0±2.3 at 3 weeks and 2.8±2.3 at 3 months after the BMAC–PRP injection ( p<0.01). The American Shoulder Elbow Surgeon score changed from 39.4±13.0 at baseline to 52.9±22.9 at 3 weeks and 71.8±19.7 at 3 months after the injection ( p<0.01). The initial torn area of the rotator cuff tendon was 30.2±24.5 mm2, and this area was reduced to 22.5±18.9 mm2 at 3 months, but the change was not significant ( p > 0.05). The data indicate that BMAC–PRP enhances the proliferation and migration of TDSCs and prevents the aberrant chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation of TDSCs, which might provide a mechanistic basis for the therapeutic benefits of BMAC–PRP for rotator cuff tendon tear.
O vi Emission from the Supernovae-regulated Interstellar Medium: Simulation versus Observation
Authors: Li (李邈) Miao , Bryan Greg L. , Ostriker Jeremiah P.
Published: January 2017

The O vi
λλ1032, 1038 Å doublet emission traces collisionally ionized gas with

K, where the cooling curve peaks for metal-enriched plasma. This warm-hot phase is usually not well-resolved in numerical simulations of the multiphase interstellar medium (ISM), but can be responsible for a significant fraction of the emitted energy. Comparing simulated O vi emission to observations is therefore a valuable test of whether simulations predict reasonable cooling rates from this phase. We calculate O vi
λ1032 Å emission, assuming collisional ionization equilibrium, for our small-box simulations of the stratified ISM regulated by supernovae. We find that the agreement is very good for our solar neighborhood model, both in terms of emission flux and mean O vi density seen in absorption. We explore runs with higher surface densities and find that, in our simulations, the O vi emission from the disk scales roughly linearly with the star formation rate. Observations of O vi emission are rare for external galaxies, but our results do not show obvious inconsistency with the existing data. Assuming the solar metallicity, O vi emission from the galaxy disk in our simulations accounts for roughly 0.5% of supernovae heating.
Grand-design Spiral Arms in a Young Forming Circumstellar Disk
Authors: Tomida Kengo , Machida Masahiro N. , Hosokawa Takashi , Sakurai Yuya , Lin Chia Hui
Published: January 2017

We study formation and long-term evolution of a circumstellar disk in a collapsing molecular cloud core using a resistive magnetohydrodynamic simulation. While the formed circumstellar disk is initially small, it grows as accretion continues, and its radius becomes as large as 200 au toward the end of the Class-I phase. A pair of grand-design spiral arms form due to gravitational instability in the disk, and they transfer angular momentum in the highly resistive disk. Although the spiral arms disappear in a few rotations as expected in a classical theory, new spiral arms form recurrently as the disk, soon becoming unstable again by gas accretion. Such recurrent spiral arms persist throughout the Class-0 and I phases. We then perform synthetic observations and compare our model with a recent high-resolution observation of a young stellar object Elias 2–27, whose circumstellar disk has grand-design spiral arms. We find good agreement between our theoretical model and the observation. Our model suggests that the grand-design spiral arms around Elias 2–27 are consistent with material arms formed by gravitational instability. If such spiral arms commonly exist in young circumstellar disks, it implies that young circumstellar disks are considerably massive and gravitational instability is the key process of angular momentum transport.
« The Progress of Man » et « The Loves of the Triangles » de l’Anti-Jacobin, entre parodie politique de poésie didactique et Nonsense avant l’heure
Authors: Labrune Pierre
Published: January 2017

Cet article s’intéresse à deux parodies de poésie didactique publiées dans l’Anti-Jacobin au cours de la session parlementaire 1797-1798. L’étude de ces textes permet de voir comment les débats politiques et esthétiques s’articulent dans le contexte plus large de la controverse révolutionnaire. Les parodies, du fait de la virtuosité formelle qui y est mise en œuvre, peuvent être considérées comme faisant pleinement partie d’une tradition de satire lettrée inspirée par les scriblériens et qui annonce le Nonsense victorien. L’excès satirique de didactisme et d’érudition mal à propos donne lieu à un discours fou censé révéler la véritable inanité de la langue révolutionnaire.
Charles I et la voix silencieuse de Eikon Basilike : le silence comme moyen d'expression
Authors: Chaise-Brun Vanessa
Published: January 2017

La parole de Charles I, de son vivant, reste, malgré ses efforts, une parole vide et non entendue. Le bruit, qu’il s’agisse des cris de la foule ou bien les querelles engendrées par ses opposants, étouffe sa parole. Son discours est un cri face à la foule et à ses opposants, mais un cri impuissant. Pourtant, peut-on affirmer que la parole de Charles I est inexistante ? Eikon Basilike est une parole écrite, un silence qui crie l’innocence du roi. « Faire silence » ne signifie pas se taire mais trouver un autre moyen d’expression face au chaos et au bruit. Cela est paradoxalement, pour ce monarque, le meilleur moyen de se faire entendre, et de faire taire les « voix mensongères ». C’est dans ce silence expressif, au-delà de la mort– Eikon Basilike – que Charles Ier semble trouver sa voix.
« She were a rose indeed, if she had but— » : Aposiopèse et chasteté dans les romances de William Shakespeare
Authors: Muller Barbara
Published: January 2017

Les traités de rhétorique du xvie siècle prônent la chasteté du discours et enjoignent de préférer le silence à l’indécence, notamment par le recours à l’aposiopèse ou figure de l’interruption. Dans The Arte Of English Poesie (1589), George Puttenham en recommande l’usage à des fins de réticence pudique du discours. Dans les romances shakespeariennes, la chasteté est souvent soulignée et, s’inspirant des romans grecs du début de l’ère chrétienne, les pièces mettent en scène des personnages qui prêchent la pudeur du discours. Elles se prêtent alors tout particulièrement à l’étude du lien entre silence et chasteté, tel qu’il est tissé dans le recours à l’aposiopèse. Le trope est défini par les traités de rhétorique comme figure de la retenue. Cet article vise à démontrer qu’à l’inverse des prescriptions des traités, les pièces détournent cette figure de la réticence du discours de l’énonciateur en une figure de la connivence avec le spectateur.
Silent Meeting, A Wonder to the World : Les premiers quakers et le bruit du monde
Authors: Selzner Cyril
Published: January 2017

Le quakerisme a développé une relation au silence qui était exceptionnelle dans le contexte du protestantisme anglais du xviie siècle – y compris chez les protestants radicaux. Les quakers ont très tôt adopté un recueillement collectif et méditatif connu sous le nom de « réunion silencieuse », qui s’écartait résolument des formes traditionnelles de la liturgie, mais aussi de la culture biblique réformée. Aussitôt accusés de ressusciter l’esprit monastique « en faisant reposer une si grande part de leur religion sur le silence », mais aussi de nourrir le fanatisme ou la léthargie spirituelle, et surtout de promouvoir une forme de religion trop éloignée de la tradition chrétienne, les quakers comme William Britten dans Silent Meeting, A Wonder to the World (1660) ont été contraints de défendre la pertinence théologique et la valeur spirituelle du silence, tentant aussi de communiquer aux Amis autant qu’à leurs adversaires la puissance régénératrice dont ils faisaient l’expérience au cours de leurs assemblées silencieuses.
Effect of Cutting Parameters on the Surface Residual Stress of Face-Milled Pearlitic Ductile Iron
Authors: Ilori Olutosin Olufisayo , Adetan Dare A. , Umoru Lasisi E.
Published: January 2017

The study determined the effect of cutting parameters on the surface residual stress of face-milled pearlitic ductile iron with a view to enhancing surface integrity of machined parts in the manufacturing industries. The pearlitic ductile iron used for this study was prepared and four cutting parameters were considered. The results obtained showed that the average surface residual stress of the machined surfaces was tensile and increased significantly with increase in depth of cut. Feed rate and cutting speed exhibited some effect, though not statistically significant, on average surface residual stress. The average residual stress was found to decrease significantly and drastically from 605.39 MPa to 101.72 MPa as cutting fluid flow rate increased from 0 ?/min to 4 ?/min. The study concluded that out of all four cutting parameters investigated, the cutting fluid flow rate has most considerable influence on the surface residual stress of the machined pearlitic ductile iron.
Research Progress on Rheological Behavior of AA7075 Aluminum Alloy During Hot Deformation
Authors: Amuda Muhammed O.H , Lawal Taiwo F. , Akinlabi Esther T
Published: January 2017

The current characterization of the rheological behavior during high temperature deformation in AA7075 is presented. The prevailing understanding in the literature is limited to the consideration of process parameters in isolation of microstructural features and the dynamics at the deformation zone in relation to geometry of the die tool and frictional conditions. Multiplicity of phenomena such as dynamic recovery (DRV), discontinuous dynamic recrystallization (DDRX), continuous dynamic recrystallization (CDRX), and geometric dynamic recrystallization (GDRX); are reported to dictates the dynamics in play during high temperature deformation of the alloy. Therefore, a need to appropriately characterize the flow behavior in AA7075 alloy during high temperature thermo mechanical processing that would involve an integrative study of concerned process parameters, metallurgical features and conditions at the deformation zone is imperative in order to achieve wholesome understanding of the flow behavior in AA7075 aluminum alloy during high temperature deformation.
Fungal production of the anti-leukemic enzyme L-asparaginase: from screening to medium development
Authors: Gonçalves Aline Bacelar , Maia Ana Carolina Ferreira , Rueda Jorge Andres , Vanzela Ana Paula De Figueiredo Conte
Published: January 2017

The treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia is challenging due to side effects, efficacy of the available drugs, and costs. Utilization of L-asparaginase as a therapeutic agent is essential to increase survival of patients. However, costs are elevated and the bacterial forms of the enzyme cause reactions that result in its inhibition by the immune system. Therapeutics alternatives may be searched among eukaryote producers, like fungi. Twelve strains of filamentous fungi were evaluated regarding expression of L-asparaginase activity. The profile of nitrogen assimilation and radial growth were determined for strains which showed higher production ratios. Three media were formulated after selection of the carbon source and carbon/nitrogen ratio that better induced L-asparaginase expression by Penicillium sp. and Fusarium sp. The enzyme activity produced in liquid media reached 8.3 U min.-1 mL-1 (Penicillium sp. T6.2) and 11.4 U min.-1 mL-1 (Fusarium sp.) after 72 hours of cultivation in Bacelar-1 medium. These data show that good producers can be found among fungi, and adjustment of productive processes may offer an alternative to implement eukaryote L-asparaginase production.
 Cuidando da criança hospitalizada com Doença de Wilson: relato de experiência/ Taking care of hospitalized child with Wilson's Disease: experience report
Authors: Ferreira Thalys Maynnard Costa , Cardoso Érika Leite da Silva , Ferreira Evyllâne Matias Veloso , Andrade Rossana Santos de , Silva Kenya De Lima
Published: January 2017

O processo de hospitalização pode trazer à criança sofrimento psicológico e físico, principalmente quando acometida por uma doença crônica e rara. Este trabalho tem como objetivo relatar a experiência acadêmica, enfatizando a importância da implementação do processo de enfermagem na assistência a uma criança com Doença de Wilson. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, tipo relato de experiência, desenvolvido na Clínica Pediátrica de um Hospital Escola do município de João Pessoa-PB. Os resultados demonstram que foi possível aos acadêmicos a elaboração de maneira estratégica das ações de enfermagem por meio da apropriação de informações sobre o caso e aproximação ao binômio; da efetivação de ações para o cuidado de enfermagem e da realização de ponderações sobre a assistência. Essa experiência permitiu reflexões a respeito do processo de cuidar, principalmente em casos de doenças raras, no intuito de despertar no discente a capacidade de “aprender a aprender” a partir da práxis.
Força de trabalho em saúde e rede hospitalar na 9ª região de saúde do Paraná/ Health workforce and hospital network in the 9th health region of Paraná
Authors: Mora Cintia Teixeira Rossato , Rizzotto Maria Lucia Frizon
Published: January 2017

A rede hospitalar e a força de trabalho em saúde se distribuem de maneira desigual no território nacional, refletindo o modelo de atenção hegemônico e a organização a partir da oferta de serviços. O estudo teve por objetivo analisar a rede hospitalar e a composição e distribuição da força de trabalho em saúde dos hospitais da 9ª Região de Saúde do Paraná. Pesquisa descritiva, quantitativa que teve como fonte de dados o Cadastro Nacional de Estabelecimentos de Saúde. A estatística descritiva revelou que 84,62% dos hospitais são privados; 61,54% de pequeno porte; existem 2.307 ocupações cadastradas e destas 57,91% são de nível superior; 69,27% dos vínculos de trabalho são precários e 23,50% dos trabalhadores apresentavam mais que um vínculo empregatício. Identificou-se, ainda, menor jornada de trabalho semanal e maior precarização entre as ocupações de nível superior. Conclui-se pela necessidade de maior participação do Estado na regulação das instituições públicas e privadas, sobretudo na gestão do trabalho, e no planejamento da distribuição da força de trabalho em saúde.
 Amamentação na primeira hora de vida em uma instituição com iniciativa hospital amigo da criança/ Breastfeeding in the first hour of life at an institution with the baby-friendly hospital initiative
Authors: Netto Amanda , Spohr Fabiana Aparecida , Zilly Adriana , França Andrea Ferreira Ouchi , Rocha-Brischiliari Sheila Cristina , Silva Rosane Meire Munhak da
Published: January 2017

Objetivou-se, neste estudo, identificar a prevalência da amamentação na primeira hora de vida e seus resultados para a manutenção do aleitamento materno. Trata-se de uma pesquisa descritiva desenvolvida em uma instituição hospitalar com Iniciativa Hospital Amigo da Criança da Tríplice Fronteira, realizada no segundo e terceiro trimestres de 2015. A coleta dos dados envolveu observação da primeira mamada e após 18 horas de nascimento; e contato telefônico após 90 dias. Os dados foram analisados pela estatística simples. Observaram-se 88 binômios, dos quais 79,5% mamaram na primeira hora de vida. O parto normal foi um fator protetor para a amamentação na primeira hora e boa sucção. No alojamento conjunto, os binômios que iniciaram a mamada na primeira hora demonstraram melhor adaptação da sucção, porém não melhor resposta do recém-nascido. Após 90 dias do nascimento, a maioria das crianças estava sendo amamentada, mas também recebiam leite artificial. Aponta-se para a necessidade de sensibilizar gestores e profissionais de saúde para promover a prática do aleitamento materno na primeira hora de vida como uma prioridade de cuidado.
O RISO COMO ESTRATÉGIA DE RESISTÊNCIA AO PODER PUNITIVO
Authors: Lemos Flávia Cristina Silveira , Oliveira Flávio Valentim de
Published: January 2017

O artigo é resultado de análises teóricas de uma pesquisa de doutorado em formato de um ensaio, na interface das contribuições da Filosofia, Psicologia e Sociedade, para problematizar o riso, a vingança e a justiça. As práticas punitivas, os saberes médicos e jurídicos que as sustentam são colocadas em questão. Também são abordadas as intervenções do riso, na política da verdade, a qual atravessa subjetividades ressentidas, ávidas em julgar, vigiar e punir. Interrogar a relação entre ordem médica e lei, no castigo, em defesa da sociedade é uma importante contribuição desse texto teórico, o qual faz do riso uma arma política em que a ironia e o trágico colocam em questão a justiça como juízo. A crítica à sujeição da pena como vingança face à ruptura com o pacto social é colocada em suspensão. Nesse sentido, é proposta uma linha reflexiva, ainda que provisória, de um problema que me parece essencial no pensamento de Nietzsche e Foucault: os laços entre riso e punição.
Pressure Induced Properties of UXLa1-XS Compound
Authors: Ahirwar Ashok K. , Aynyas Mahendra , Sanyal Sankar P.
Published: January 2017

The crystal structural, mechanical and thermal properties of UXLa1-XS compound with different concentrations (x= 0.00, 0.08 and 0.40) are investigated using modified inter-ionic potential theory (MIPT), which parametrically includes the effect of coulomb screening by the delocalized f-electrons. Our calculated values of phase transition pressure, bulk modulus and volume change are agree well with the theoretical and experimental data. We have also calculated the second order elastic constants and Debye temperature of these three concentrations.
Low Frequency Study of Te2 Cluster and CdSeTe Nanoparticles Embedded in Borosilicate Glass
Authors: Mankad Venu , Sharma Vaishali , Jha Prafulla K.
Published: January 2017

The objective of this paper is to study the low frequency acoustic vibration of Te2 cluster and CdSeTe nanoparticle embedded in borosilicate glass matrix. Lamb’s model is used to predict the occurrence of various mode to support the experimental observations by considering the elastic continuum model and fixed boundary condition. The presence of medium significantly affects the phonon peaks and results into the broadening of the modes. The linewidth is found to depend inversely on the size, similar to that reported experimentally.
Ab Initio Investigation of Structural and Electronic Properties of ErPb3 in AB3 Structure
Authors: Dubey Shubha , Pagare Gitanjali , Jain Ekta , Sanyal Sankar P.
Published: January 2017

The structural properties and electronic properties of the intermetallic compound ErPb3 which crystallize in AuCu3 type structure (AB3) are studied by means of first principles total energy calculation using full potential linearized plane wave method (FP-LAPW) within the generalized gradient approximation of Perdew, Burke and Ernzrhof (PBE) and local spin density approximation (LSDA) for the exchange correlation functional and including spin magnetic calculation. The total energy is computed as a function of volume and fitted to the Birch-Murnaghan equation of state. The ground state properties of this compound such as equilibrium lattice parameter (a0), bulk modulus (B), and its pressure derivative (B’) are calculated and compared with the available experimental results. We find good agreement with the other theoretical and experimental results. For the compounds, the values of lattice constants obtained by PBE-GGA overestimates and by LSDA underestimates the available experimental values for the same, which verifies the reliability of the present calculation. The value obtained for the bulk modulus is 50.63 GPa. The analysis of electronic properties is achieved by the calculation of the band structures and the density of states in both the spin up and spin down modes, which show a metallic character of ErPB3 due to zero band gap. The values of calculated density of states are found to be 0.36 eV/states and 11.46 eV/states in spin-up and spin-down mode respectively. The calculated magnetic moment (μm) of ErPb3 is 2.06.
Properties of Thorium Compounds: Application of Interionic Potential Theory
Authors: Pataiya Jagdeesh , Aynyas Mahendra , Makode Chandrabhan , Singh Archana , Arya Balwant Singh , Sanyal Sankar P.
Published: January 2017

In the present work structural and mechanical properties of ThC and ThO compounds have been carried out using desirable modified inter-ionic potential theory (MIPT), which parametrically includes the effect of Coulomb screening. The transition from rock salt to caesium chloride occurs around 40.0 GPa and 65.0 GPa in the case of ThC and ThO respectively. We have also calculated bulk (B0), Young (E), and shear moduli (G), Poisson ratio (υ) and anisotropic ratio (A) in NaCl-type structure for these compounds and differentiate them with other experimental and theoretical results which show a good agreement.
Quality and labeling information of Moringa oleifera products marketed for HIV-infected people in Zimbabwe
Authors: Monera-Penduka Tsitsi Grace , Jani Zvinji Tella , Maponga Charles Chiedza , Mudzengi Josephine , Morse Gene D. , Nhachi Charles Fungai Brian
Published: January 2017

Labeling information and quality of marketed Moringa oleifera products were assessed. Personnel in 60 pharmacies and 11 herbal shops were interviewed about the sources, dosages, indications and counseling information of Moringa oleifera products. Content analysis of written information provided on Moringa oleifera products was also done. Three samples of Moringa from popular sources were acquired to determine heavy metal content and microbial contamination. The results were compared to specified limits in the European and Chinese pharmacopeia, World Health Organization guidelines and Bureau of Indian Standards. Moringa was available as capsules or powder in 73% of the premises. Moringa was recommended for seven different disease conditions. Four different dosage regimens were prescribed. The main references cited for the counseling information were unscientific literature (62%). The selected Moringa samples were contaminated with bacteria and fungi above the European Pharmacopeia specified limits. Escherichia coli and Salmonella species were present in all three samples. All three samples contained arsenic, nickel and cadmium above the permissible limits. Moringa oleifera with variable labeling information and poor microbial and heavy metal quality is widely available in Zimbabwe.
Analysis of Local Government Performance and Leadership in Nigeria
Authors: Uche Ada
Published: January 2017

This paper examines the quality of local government leaderships in Nigeria. It explores how local governments’ inefficiency and poor leadership have been a major challenge facing the development process in Nigeria. The paper has two objectives. The first is to identify the professionalism of a sample of Nigerian local government chairpersons. The second is to examine whether there are systematic correlations between local government chairpersons’ professionalism, political partisanship, local characteristics, and performance. The paper argues that the quality of local government chairpersons has significant policy implications because of their vital role in policy making and implementation. The concluding section provides some policy recommendations on how local government leaders could improve performance.
The Implementation of Preferential Procurement Policy in Gauteng Province: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Hlakudi John Nkwananchi
Published: January 2017

The South African government established the Preferential Procurement Policy (PP Policy) to provide Historically Disadvantaged Individuals (HDIs) economic opportunity in the state procurement process. There were a number of challenges in the implementation of the policy. The challenges include non compliance with procurement processes, limited knowledge of preferential procurement targets, late payments of suppliers, and fraud and corruption. In addition to putting measures to improve inefficiencies embedded in the preferential procurement system, this article asserts that the achievement of the objectives of the Preferential Procurement Policy lies mainly in the commitment by top management and the empowerment of the people tasked with the implementation of the policy. This means that the top management should receive training about the importance of the policy to create economic opportunities for black people. Furthermore, Supply Chain Management (SCM) officials in government should be given appropriate authority in the public procurement system.
Evaluating the Budget and Efficiency of the Security, Justice and Governance Cluster in Uganda: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Byamugisha Albert , Basheka Benon C.
Published: January 2017

Performance measurement has increasingly become central to the efficiency and effectiveness of any government – developed or developing. The introduction of public sector reforms, which transferred most service delivery obligations to the private sector under the New Public Management (NPM) doctrines, demanded a strong performance measurement framework. Sequel to continual government's role in public service delivery in the last decade coming under attack, a revival interest in the exact role of government in public services delivery has thus become imperative. Evaluating performance of different sectors of government is paramount and provides useful information for effective decision-making. This article presents empirical findings of the Government Half Annual Performance Report for the security, justice and governance cluster. The objective is to highlight areas where progress has been made against the set targets and actions and where delays have been occasioned within the context of Uganda. These findings however are useful in guiding different actors including Cabinet and line Ministries, Departments, Agencies and Local governments in ensuring that agreed targets are met at the end of the Financial Year.
Re-imaging the Eastern Cape Province: Sustainable Human Development from the Perspectives of the State, Civic Society, and the University
Authors: Thakrar Jayshree , Minkley Gary
Published: January 2017

The Eastern Cape Planning Commission identifies human development as the central concern that the Provincial Development Plan should be premised on (Eastern Cape Planning Commission, 2012). This article proposes to critically examine the emerging (albeit implicit) philosophicalfoundation for sustainable human development, which we read as a combination of consciousness, capability, and rational organisation, and discusses these three interrelating aspects against selected stakeholders of sustainable human development: the State, civic society and the university. We determine that a re-imagination of the Eastern Cape Province would require serious consideration for the reshaping of the State, a rethinking of the roles and relationships with, and between, civic society, and a review of the third mission of the university.
The Potential Value of Evaluation as Budgeting Tool for South African Municipalities
Authors: Mofolo Malefetsane A.
Published: January 2017

The paradox around performance in the South African municipalities is undoubtedly exposed by the released reports of the Auditor-General for 2012/13 and Statistics South Africa’s Non-Financial Census of Municipalities, 2013. On the analyses of these reports, it became clear that municipalities could achieve more if stringent measures could be put in place and implemented to ensure that resources are used efficiently and effectively. To that effect, this article argues that monitoring and evaluation (M&E) policy framework should be fully implemented in South African municipalities. This argument emanates from the fact that exorbitant amounts are incurred on fruitless and wasteful expenditure in municipalities. This article then presents a compelling case through which maximisation of expenditure prioritisation in municipalities is warranted. To investigate the concept of expenditure prioritisation, as a principle that municipalities should espouse, the study embarks on literature review as a method deemed suitable to explore the value of evaluation as budgeting tool for South African municipalities.  The findings to this investigation, recommended that on-going or process evaluation should be more useful to inform budget decision makers in the provincial and national governments about the required capacity interventions, which could assist to deal with financial weaknesses in municipalities.
Financing Development Through Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) in Botswana
Authors: Botlhale E. K.
Published: January 2017

Largely due to chronic fiscal stress since the recent global economic crisis, there are calls for alternative ways of financing economic development. Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) have been identified as such alternatives. There is an increasing awareness that the private sector is not a competitor but a strategic partner in the drive for economic development. Therefore, governments are leveraging on the benefits of PPPs. Using the case study of Botswana, which is experiencing revenue challenges as diamonds have not been selling well since 2008, this theoretical paper explores the possibility of using more PPPs to finance economic development. Grounded in interpretivist research methodology, using the survey research strategy and using secondary data sources in the form of a desk survey, it concluded that there is a case for the increased use PPPs to finance economic development. It further concluded that while there is demonstrated appetite for PPPs, to date, only a few projects have been procured through PPPs. Hence, moving forward, and given the deteriorating revenue situation, there is a need to use more PPPs to deliver economic development. Finally, the paper argues that there is a need to reform the current PPP legal-institutional architecture and bench-mark and peer-learn from best PPP practices in Africa such as South Africa and Nigeria and beyond.
Transformative Empowerment in the Lagos State Civil Service: A Gender Policy Discourse
Authors: Oyekanmi Felicia A.D. , Majekodunmi Aderonke
Published: January 2017

Transformation means positive change to new values and direction. This research is concerned with the relationship between empowerment processes that are transformatory and gender equality in the workplace. Its scope includes integrating a transformatory view into women’s and men’s consciousness and autonomy over their career, education and health. This research adopted a case-study approach by using the Ministries of Education, Health, Establishment, Training and Pensions and the Civil Service Commission in Lagos State, employing a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods as its empirical research methodology. The field work was carried out in Lagos State in the months of June and July, 2014 while the interview was in July and August, 2014. This study demonstrated that gender-blind policies disempower women and perpetuate gender inequalities in the Lagos State Civil Service. Further, it shows that the manifestation of transformatory empowerment is jeopardised by women and men's compliance with the existing expectations and inaction to bring about changes in policies and practices that are detrimental to the attainment of gender equality in the work place.
South Africa’s Democratic Transformational Agenda
Authors: De Wee Khotso
Published: January 2017

No abstract available.
Is South Africa Ready to Be a Developmental State?
Authors: De Wee Khotso
Published: January 2017

No abstract available.