bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between left ventricular diastolic function and the autonomic nervous function in elderly patients with mild-to-moderate essential hypertension
Authors: Liu Qunwei , Lin Xin , Dong Lei , Han Limin , Chang Feng
Published: April 2018

Objective: To investigate the relationship between left ventricular diastolic function (LVDF) and autonomic nervous function in elderly patients with mild-to-moderate essential hypertension.Design: A total of 146 elderly patients with mild-to-moderate essential hypertension were enrolled in our hospital from January, 2015 to October, 2017. Blood pressure was recorded, and biochemical indexes and the N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic preptide (NT-proBNP) were investigated. 2-dimensional echocadiolography was used to measure the parameters of LVDF. Based on the classification standard of LVDF, all subjects were divided into two groups: normal LVDF group (n = 72), left ventricular diastolic dysfunction group (n = 74). At the same time, the dynamic electrocardiogram were investigated for all subjects to monitor the indexes of time on heart rate variability (HRV).Results: (1) The level of NT-proBNP, left ventricular mass index (LVMI), interventricular septal thickness (IVST) and LVPWT increased significantly (p < .05 for all), while the level of PNN50, rMSSD, SDANN and SDNN decreased significantly (p < .05 for all) in left ventricular diastolic dysfunction group (abnormal LVDF group) compared with that in normal LVDF group (normal LVDF group); (2) The partial correlation analysis showed that rMSSD, PNN50 and triangle index were negatively correlated with peak A (r = -0.208, -0.219, -0.211, p < .05 for all), and positive correlated with the ratio of peak E to peak A (E/A) (r = 0.179, 0.184, 0.181, p < .05); SDNN were negatively correlated with NT-proBNP and E/E’ (r = -0.183, -0.181, p < .05 for all), positive correlated with E’ (r = 0.178, p < .05); (3) Multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that peak A and E/A were independent influencing factors for PNN50 (β = -0.261, p = .004; β = 0.179, p = .016); E/E’ and NT-proBNP were independent influencing factor for SDNN (β = -0.163, p = .018; β = -0.172, p = .022).Conclusions: Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction is closely related to impaired autonomic nervous function in elderly patients with mild-to-moderate essential hypertension.
Análise integrada da paisagem em trabalho de campo no Parque Nacional de Sete Cidades (PI)
Authors: Dos Santos Francílio de Amorim
Published: April 2018

O estudo se propôs a caracterizar de forma integrada os aspectos físico-naturais da paisagem do Parque Nacional de Sete Cidades associado ao trabalho de campo, a partir dos elementos litológicos, geomorfológicos, climáticos, hidrográficos, pedológicos e da fisionomia da cobertura vegetal. A presente atividade constou das seguintes etapas: 1) planejamento; 2) atividades de laboratório; e 3) trabalho de campo (17 de junho de 2017). Logo, foi possível apreender que a estrutura geológica da área é predominantemente arenítica, cujas feições geomorfológicas provêm do intemperismo físico – gerando particularmente chapadas planas, mesas e escarpas abruptas –, com cotas altimétricas que variam de 128 a 279 metros e relevo de plano a suave ondulado, que ocorre em 74,4% da área. A drenagem é bastante irregular devido às condições climáticas, sendo o riacho Riachão seu principal curso fluvial. A área está sob influência da Zona de Convergência Intertropical (ZCIT), com precipitação média de 1.337 milímetros anuais e período chuvoso concentrado entre janeiro e maio. Os solos são predominantemente jovens e pouco desenvolvidos, a saber: Plintossolos e Neossolos. Esses são recobertos na maior parte por cerrado aberto latifoliado perenifólio e campo graminóide cespitoso médio em 47,42% e 35,84%, respectivamente. Essas informações integram o quadro biofísico e o trabalho de campo permitiu visualiza-los à luz da abordagem sistêmica.
Educação geográfica, movimentos sociais e território: formação de estudantes reflexivos
Authors: Mata Caio Bragueto da
Published: April 2018

O presente texto é resultado de uma oficina pedagógica aplicada em três turmas do ensino médio de um colégio estadual de Londrina, PR. Teve como objetivo discutir o tema movimentos sociais e a categoria território na disciplina de geografia. Como procedimentos metodológicos foram utilizados leitura e fichamento de texto, planejamento e aplicação da oficina e, por último, análise e discussão dos resultados. Apesar das adversidades, os/as estudantes demonstraram estar aptos a entender, participar e criar um movimento que faça reivindicações pertinentes à melhoria das condições de vida dos coletivos.
Tuberculosis y su relación con los espacios periurbanos de Lima – Perú: análisis demográfico y socio-ambiental
Authors: Bordais Jhomelin Milagros Flores , Queiroz Neto Exzolvildres , Gamarra Carmen Justina
Published: April 2018

A tuberculose é uma doença que está causando grande impacto nas diferentes sociedades do mundo, principalmente naquelas em situação de vulnerabilidade. Esta doença é causada pelo Mycobacterium tuberculosis ou comumente chamado bacilo de Koch, em homenagem ao seu descobridor. A tuberculose no Peru concentra o maior número de casos nos vários distritos localizados, principalmente, na periferia de Lima. Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar a relação entre a tuberculose e sua presença nos espaços periurbanos de Lima - Peru, espaços que foram formados principalmente pela migração e os conflitos internos no país. Destacam-se os aspectos demográficos e socioambientais do espaço territorial onde colocaremos a tuberculose como doença predominante. Determinam-se as características das condições de vida de seus habitantes através das contribuições da geografia da saúde que inclui a conceitualização da habitação, da pobreza, da desigualdade social e a configuração da exclusão social. Finalmente, este estudo nos permitiu afirmar a relação direta da tuberculose com o espaço em que se desenvolve, ambientes precários que contribuem para a disseminação da doença.
Mapeamento dos usos do solo na Área de Proteção Permanente do Rio Vermelho (MT) e seus reflexos sobre a qualidade da água
Authors: Souza André Vinícius Valuz , Oliveira Simoni Maria Loverde , Alves Gustavo Benedito Medeiros
Published: April 2018

O objetivo deste estudo foi mapear os usos do solo na Área de Proteção Permanente do Rio Vermelho e analisar seus efeitos sobre a qualidade da água no perímetro urbano de Rondonópolis (Mato Grosso) (16º45’37,24’’S 54º68’04,66’’W). Foram coletadas amostras em duas estações, com periodicidade trimestral no período seco e chuvoso de 2014. As análises da água seguiram os métodos padrões e para quantificar e classificar os diferentes usos do solo foram utilizadas imagens do programa Google EarthPro. Entre os usos do solo na APP registrou-se a ocorrência de mata ciliar em 74% da área (365 hectares) e 26% da área total (125,7 hectares) já foi desmatada para pastagem e mineração, entre outros usos. Entre as 22 variáveis indicadoras da qualidade da água, quatro apresentaram valores médios superiores aos limites da Resolução CONAMA 357/2005 para rio de classe II. Na época chuvosa houve maiores valores de cor, turbidez e fósforo total, e na seca houve aumento de coliformes fecais. A expansão das áreas urbanas associada aos usos praticados na região marginal em conflito com a Área de Preservação Permanente influenciou na qualidade física, química e biológica da água do rio Vermelho.
Studying the Linear and Nonlinear Optical Properties by Using Z-Scan Technique for CdS Thin Films Prepared by CBD Technique
Authors: Jabbar Ahmed S. , Abbas Sabah I. , Al-zubaidy Muneer H.
Published: April 2018

CdS films prepared by using CBD technique, linear optical properties tests measured by UV-3000 Nano from OPTIMA, nonlinear properties contained the nonlinear refractive index and nonlinear absorption coefficient by using single light beam source green semiconductor developed laser (SZ- 303 LASER) with material Nd:YVO4+KTP or Aluminum Alloy, and Wavelength Range is (532 nm), Beam Dimension 6 Meter distance Output Laser spot 18 mm ± 2.0 mm.
No-Tillage and Phosphate Fertilization Management on Soybean Culture in Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: Costa Leite Robson Da , Costa Leite Rubson Da , Silva Carneiro Jefferson Santana da , Freitas Gilson Araújo de , Santos Antônio Carlos Martis dos , Silva Rubens Ribeiro da , Santos Antonio Clementino dos
Published: April 2018

Despite the benefits of no-till practices, soil compaction is a problem that can cause, among other things, mechanical impediment to root growth and less response to soil fertilization. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of subsoiling and doses of phosphate fertilization on soybean that have been cultivated over ten years under no-till systems in the Brazilian Cerrado. The experiment consisted of a randomized complete block design in a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement. Two managements in consolidated no-tillage area were considered: with and without subsoiling, along with four levels of phosphate fertilization: 0, 100, 300 and 400 kg ha-1 of P2O5. The practice of subsoiling in an area with ten years of no-till system provided an increase of 124.38 kg ha-1 in soybean productivity. Soybean plants grown under no-tillage system, with subsoil management, showed better development and pod production. The maximum phosphorus efficiency, with subsoiling, was achieved with the dose of 172 kg ha-1 of P2O5, yielding 5,693.4 kg ha-1. In the no-tillage system, the maximum efficiency dose and crop yield were 159 kg ha-1 of P2O5 and 5434.2 kg ha-1, respectively.
Effects of in vitro Drought Stress on Growth, Proline Accumulation and Antioxidant Defense in Sugarcane
Authors: Oliveira Leila Albuquerque Resende de , Cardoso Milena Nascimento , Oliveira Annie Carolina Araújo de , Machado Caroline De Araújo , Cardoso Bruno Trindade , Silva Ana Veruska Cruz da , Lédo Ana Da Silva
Published: April 2018

Drought is the most limiting environmental factor to crop productivity and presents a great variability in the degree of tolerance among and within species, among varieties. The aim of this study was to characterize sugarcane accessions regarding tolerance to water stress during in vitro cultivation based on changes in biometric, physiological and biochemical characteristics, within species and among species, to support future breeding programs. Adventitious shoots of five sugarcane accessions: Saccharum robustum, Saccharum spontaneum and Saccharum officinarum species, cultivated in Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 2% sucrose and 4 g/l Phytagel were used in five water potentials, 0, -0.3, -0.6, -0.9, -1.2 MPa, induced by mannitol. Survival, length of shoots and roots, number of shoots and roots, biomass, proline content in leaves and activity of antioxidant enzymes were analyzed. There is difference among species, and also, within the same sugarcane species when submitted to in vitro drought stress, and S. officinarum was shown to be the most tolerant. Proline can be used as a biochemical indicator of response to drought in sugarcane accessions and its accumulation was intensified in S. robustum and S. spontaneum accessions. Catalase activity remained unchanged with increased drought in sugarcane accessions evaluated.
Phyllochron and Productive Performance of Strawberry Cultivars: Impact of Different Regions of Origin in a Conventional Cultivation System
Authors: Thiesen Leonardo Antonio , Diel Maria Inês , Pinheiro Marcos Vinícius Marques , Cocco Carine , Fontana Daniele Cristina , Holz Evandro , Caron Braulio Otomar , Schmidt Denise
Published: April 2018

The seedlings selection and the strawberry cultivars choice are fundamental to the productive success of a cultivation. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the production of two strawberry cultivars with seedlings from different origins, in a conventional cultivation system under the low tunnel. The experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design, in a 2 × 3 factorial scheme, two cultivars (Albion and San Andreas) and three different nurseries (Low altitude region/BR, High altitude region/BR and seedlings imported from the of Patagonia Region/AR) totaling six treatments, with four replicates and eight plants per plot. Phyllochron, number and production of commercials and non commercial fruits were determined. To the qualitative analysis, the acidity, total soluble solids and the relation total soluble solids/titratable acidity were determined. It was possible to observe that the Albion cultivar from all sources and the San Andreas of high altitude/BR presented the highest phyllochron values. The production of commercial fruits was higher for the Albion cultivar from high altitude/BR and Patagonia/AR, and to San Andreas cultivar of low altitude/BR. It was concluded that the phyllochron varies according to the cultivar and place of origin of the seedlings, being San Andreas cultivar of the low altitude/BR the one that requires less amounts of degree-days to emit a leaf. The Albion (high altitude/BR) cultivar has higher phyllochron, high productive potential and less production of non-commercial fruits, and can be used as a substitute for imported seedlings (Patagonia/AR), which will reflect in the costs reduction to the implantation of strawberry crops.
Economic Analysis of the Production of Yellow Passion Fruit in an Area With Virose Incidence and Fertilized With NPK
Authors: Miyake Rodrigo T. M. , Furlaneto Fernanda P. B. , Takata William H. S. , Creste José E.
Published: April 2018

The objective this work was to evaluate specific economic data of the production of yellow passion fruit under influence of different doses of NPK, in the form of N, P2O5 and K2O, in an area with incidence of virose in the city of Presidente Prudente, State of São Paulo. The following doses of NPK were evaluated: N (150 to 1200 kg ha-1), P2O5 (200 to 1600 kg ha-1) and K2O (100 to 700 kg ha-1). Miyake et al. (2016) describe the methodology used in the formation of seedlings, fertilization and cultural treatments of passion fruit. The data used in the economic analysis were: productivity, commercial production, percentage and fruits of each commercial classification, cost of production and profitability of passion fruit. At the economical part, structures of the COE and TOC and four indicators of profitability were used. It was observed percentage difference in the operational cost of production of 4.0% between the highest and the lowest dose of N, of 5.8% among doses of P2O5 and 1.7% among doses of K2O. The total operating cost ranged from $29,119.77 to $31,113.09 per hectare. The profitability indicators were not favorable. It was concluded that the region of Presidente Prudente-SP, in areas with an incidence of viral infection, it is not recommended the plantation of passion fruits. However, at times with high selling price of fruit (average above R$ 1.95 kg-1), the dose of NPK indicated refers to 300 kg of N, 400 kg of P2O5 and 500 kg of K2O ha-1.
Microbiological Condition of Retail Beef Steaks: A Canadian Survey
Authors: Yang Xianqin , Devos Julia , Wang Hui , Klassen Mark
Published: April 2018

The second national baseline microbiological survey of beef steaks offered for retail in Canada was conducted in 2015. A total of 621 steaks of four types (cross rib, CR; inside round, IR; striploin, SL; top sirloin, TS) collected from 135 retail stores in five cities across Canada were tested. Swab samples each from swabbing the entire upper surface of each steak were processed for enumeration of seven groups of indicator organisms: total aerobes (AER), psychrotrophs (PSY), lactic acid bacteria (LAB), pseudomonads (PSE), Brochothrix thermosphacta (BRO), coliforms (COL) and Escherichia coli (ECO). The overall mean values (log CFU/100 cm2) were 5.17±1.29, 4.92±1.36, 4.79±1.42, 3.26±1.49, 2.34±1.88, and 0.80±1.05 for AER, PSY, LAB, PSE, BRO, and COL, respectively. ECO were not recovered from 87.3% of the steaks and when there was recovery, the numbers were mostly ≤ 1 log CFU/100 cm2. Strong correlation was found between the log numbers of AER and PSY, of AER and LAB, and of PSY and LAB, while the correlation between the log numbers of COL and ECO was weak. The numbers of COL and ECO from different groups of steak types or from different cities were not substantially different. Of the four types of steaks, IR had the lowest median values for AER, PSY, LAB, PSE and BRO, followed by CR. The microbiological condition of retail beef steaks in this survey was on par with that in the previous one, with very low numbers of generic E. coli being recovered from very few steaks and the indicators for microbial quality being at numbers much lower than the upper limit for shelf life of beef.
Aplicação da distribuição Burr XII discreta na análise de dados de produção animal
Authors: Mazucheli Josmar , Oliveira Ricardo Puziol , Peralta Danielle , Emanuelli Isabele P.
Published: April 2018

In animal production, the models that mimicry the biological reality are of great importance for optimization and sustainability of the productive system. The continuous Burr XII distribution is widely used in survival data analysis, however, the same does not occur with its discrete version, recently proposed in the literature. The purpose of this work is to use the discrete Burr XII distribution, obtained by the discretization method proposed by Nakagawa and Osaki (1975), in the analysis of data related to animal production. The data analyzed describe the time, in days, from birth to first laying of yellow quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) submitted to two diets. For this purpose the discretized versions of five distributions were used: the discrete Burr XII, the discrete Weibull, the discrete gamma, the discrete inverse-Gaussian and the discrete log-normal. For all distributions, the parameter estimates were obtained by the maximum likelihood method. Despite the similarity between the estimates it is natural to choose the discrete given the nature of the data and assuming the discrete distribution, it could be calculated exactly, for example, the probability of the time to the first posture, which is not possible if a continuous distribution is assumed. Thus, among the discrete distributions, the chi-square goodness-of-fit test showed that the Burr XII distribution was the only one indicated to describe the behavior of the data considered.
Microbial pool for biological control of milk quality and pathogen profile of milk from a dairy farm in southern Brazil
Authors: Silva Pamela Lais Cabral , Araújo Thayli Ramires , Guidoni Lucas , Gonçalves Fernanda , Marques Roger , Vieira Lauren , Corrêa Luciara , Corrêa Érico
Published: April 2018

The objective of this study was to assess the health and environmental profile milk from a local dairy farm by applying inoculum in different environments. The inoculum used was diluted with water and then sprinkled on the surface of predetermined sites for characterization. Five swab samples from the ground were collected at random from the room or environment. Populations of the total and fecal coliforms, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus coagulase positive and sulfite reducing Clostridium were set as indicators of hygiene and sanitary conditions. Milk samples were also collected from the cooling tank. Somatic cell counts (SCC) and different physicochemical parameters were determined, we used the methods set by ANVISA. A statistically significant reduction of SCC (P < 0.05) was observed from 2.8 to 2.0 log SSC.mL–1, significant interactions were considered when the probability was lower than 5%. The inoculum also showed a highly significant effect on pathogen populations, especially on Salmonella spp. and sulfite reducing Clostridium, while a lower reduction on the other two pathogens. In this way, the inoculum was effective in reducing pathogen populations, improved the sanitary quality,thus it might be used as a prevention tool for the diseases with environmental origin in dairy farms.
Sociocultural and individual manifestations of sexual stigma: The role of political ideology and prejudice in discrimination against sexual minorities
Authors: Hoyt Crystal L. , Parry Mitchell
Published: April 2018

Understanding the complex manifestations of sexual stigma is crucial in helping to prevent discrimination toward sexual minorities. In this research, we examined the role of heterosexism within political ideology systems and the process through which these systems promote discrimination by focusing on sexual prejudice. Across four studies, we tested the predictions that more conservative political ideologies and greater levels of sexual prejudice will be associated with more negative evaluations of an applicant with a sexual stigma, and that prejudice will mediate the link between ideology and evaluation. We employed an experimental paradigm such that participants were presented nearly identical information in an intern applicant evaluation context, however, cues to sexual stigma were either present or absent. Overall, conservative ideology negatively predicted evaluation in the stigma, but not the control, condition and greater levels of sexual prejudice more strongly negatively predicted evaluations in the stigma, relative to control, condition. Finally, whereas ideology indirectly predicted candidate evaluation through prejudice generally, the effect was stronger for the applicant with the sexual stigma. This research extends the scholarship linking ideology to sexual stigma by examining employment discrimination and testing the mediating role of prejudice linking ideology to discrimination. By examining the role of ideology, it also broadens the research on bias in employment contexts. Understanding the role of both political ideology as well as individual sexual prejudice in discrimination may facilitate efforts to dismantle discrimination.
Clay Nanoparticles Composite Membranes Prepared with Three Different Polymers: Performance Evaluation
Authors: Rodrigues Raphael , Morihama Ana Carolina Daniel , Barbosa Izabela Major , Leocádio Gracyelly Nuves , Mierzwa José Carlos
Published: April 2018

This paper presents the results obtained from the evaluation of clay nanoparticles as an additive for improving the characteristics and performance of composite membranes cast with polysulfone (PS), polyethersulfone (PES), and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Different concentrations of clay nanoparticles, ranging from 1 to 10% based on the polymer mass, were used to prepare all dope solutions. The addition of clay nanoparticles changed the internal pore morphology of membranes, which resulted in significant changes on their performance, regarding its water permeability, and fouling potential. The optimum nanoclay concentration for permeability enhancement was different for each polymer, 1.5%, 2.0%, and 6.0% for PS, PES, and PVDF, respectively. This difference can be attributed to the differences of polymer’s hydrophobicity, based on the contact angle of a sessile water drop, which is higher for PVDF (PVDF is more hydrophobic than PS and PES). The flow improvement changed based on the main polymer. Significant changes in internal pore structure were observed for all membranes. The proportion of macrovoids was decreased and pores had a better connectivity across the cross section for PES and PS membranes. For PVDF membranes, the addition of nanoclay had a different effect on their microstructure. In this case, internal pores were 20% wider, factor that increased the average membrane porosity. The simultaneous evaluation of the clay nanoparticles used as an additive have clearly demonstrated its potential application for composite membrane production. It is also worth to note that the best way for identifying and evaluating the potential for an additive for membrane casting is considering its effects for different polymers, under the same casting conditions.
L’enseignement et l’action créative : de l’inférence comme indice de professionnalisation du futur enseignant de musique
Authors: Balmori Isabel
Published: April 2018

« Comment la société organise-t-elle des expertises ? » À partir de la question formulée par le sociologue américain Abbott (1988) et dans le cadre d’une recherche menée par l’équipe DAM de l’Université de Genève, nous nous sommes penchés sur les pratiques des formateurs et des étudiants en chant — le premier assumant institutionnellement un rôle d’experts. Nous avons analysé ces pratiques sur la base des trois opérations caractéristiques du professionnel : le diagnostic, l’inférence et le traitement, théorisés par Abbott. Leur mise en parallèle avec les pratiques de transmission depuis le XVIIe siècle jusqu’à nos jours nous a permis de mettre en relief de profondes transformations dans l’enseignement du chant dit « classique », notamment dans l’étape d’inférence. Cette étape permettrait au professeur de chant expérimenté de déployer sa créativité, mais constituerait aussi un vrai défi pour l’étudiant en voie de professionnalisation.
Comment tirer le meilleur parti de la double casquette « chercheur » et « formateur » dans le cadre de l’évolution d’un dispositif de formation d’enseignants ?
Authors: BOCQUILLON Marie , DEROBERTMASURE Antoine , DEMEUSE Marc
Published: April 2018

Cet article présente l’évaluation et la régulation d’un dispositif de formation initiale d’enseignants ayant été, au fil du temps, au coeur de plusieurs recherches scientifiques. Les différentes recherches réalisées ont amené les formateurs à apporter au dispositif de formation une série d’évolutions, de nature conceptuelle, pédagogique et méthodologique. L’appréciation des effets de ces évolutions sur une période d’une dizaine d’années permet d’illustrer la démarche alliant étroitement recherche et formation et la richesse du double rôle des chercheurs-formateurs.
La collaboration au coeur d’une évaluation de dispositif de formation. Le cas d’une recherche-intervention multipartenariale
Authors: AUSSEL Lucie
Published: April 2018

Cette contribution s’inscrit dans le contexte d’un laboratoire commun (LabCom) porté par une équipe de recherche en sciences humaines et sociales (SHS) et un acteur socio-économique de la région toulousaine. L’objectif de ce partenariat était de « faire en sorte que le monde de la recherche académique se rapproche des entreprises » (convention). Ainsi, ce LabCom a permis la collaboration d’une petite et moyenne entreprise, organisatrice de congrès et d’une équipe de recherche pluridisciplinaire en SHS. Nous nous intéressons dans le cadre de ce dossier thématique à l’évaluation de dispositif lorsque qu’elle se développe en contexte de recherche collaborative. Ainsi, une partie des résultats de l’évaluation d’un dispositif expérimental de formation, développé au sein de ce congrès de cardiologie interventionnelle, sera présentée.
Na-no-body : de l’oubli du corps sensible en nanomédecine
Authors: Noury Mathieu
Published: April 2018

Cet article expose les réflexions sur lesquelles se fonde un récent projet artistique intituléNa-no-body, présenté à la galerie montréalaise Espace Projet dans le cadre de l’expositionArt + Bioéthique. Résultat d’une collaboration entre l’artiste Stephanie Coleman et le sociologue Mathieu Noury, ce projet souhaite contribuer au dialogue éthique sur le développement de la nanomédecine et de son rapport au corps. S’intéressant particulièrement à la notion de « médecine personnalisée » promue par la nanomédecine, cet article montre que loin de développer une approche réintégrant la personne et son expérience personnelle de la maladie au coeur du processus de soin, la nanomédecine apporte une réponse purement moléculaire et technique au soin. Plus spécifiquement, il est soutenu que deux idées principales fondent le modèle de prise en charge du patient promu par la nanomédecine : 1)l’individualité du patient est pensée au regard du prisme de la pensée moléculaire; 2)la relation de soin, et donc au corps du patient, est hautement dépersonnalisée et technicisée, radicalisant la désindividualisation du soin propre à la biomédecine.
Empirical evaluation of data normalization methods for molecular classification
Authors: Huang Huei-Chung , Qin Li-Xuan
Published: April 2018

Background

Data artifacts due to variations in experimental handling are ubiquitous in microarray studies, and they can lead to biased and irreproducible findings. A popular approach to correct for such artifacts is through post hoc data adjustment such as data normalization. Statistical methods for data normalization have been developed and evaluated primarily for the discovery of individual molecular biomarkers. Their performance has rarely been studied for the development of multi-marker molecular classifiers—an increasingly important application of microarrays in the era of personalized medicine.

Methods

In this study, we set out to evaluate the performance of three commonly used methods for data normalization in the context of molecular classification, using extensive simulations based on re-sampling from a unique pair of microRNA microarray datasets for the same set of samples. The data and code for our simulations are freely available as R packages at GitHub.

Results

In the presence of confounding handling effects, all three normalization methods tended to improve the accuracy of the classifier when evaluated in an independent test data. The level of improvement and the relative performance among the normalization methods depended on the relative level of molecular signal, the distributional pattern of handling effects (e.g., location shift vs scale change), and the statistical method used for building the classifier. In addition, cross-validation was associated with biased estimation of classification accuracy in the over-optimistic direction for all three normalization methods.

Conclusion

Normalization may improve the accuracy of molecular classification for data with confounding handling effects; however, it cannot circumvent the over-optimistic findings associated with cross-validation for assessing classification accuracy.
Classical lepidopteran wing scale colouration in the giant butterfly-moth Paysandisia archon
Authors: Stavenga Doekele G. , Leertouwer Hein L. , Meglič Andrej , Drašlar Kazimir , Wehling Martin F. , Pirih Primož , Belušič Gregor
Published: April 2018

The palm borer moth Paysandisia archon (Castniidae; giant butterfly-moths) has brown dorsal forewings and strikingly orange-coloured dorsal hindwings with white spots surrounded by black margins. Here, we have studied the structure and pigments of the wing scales in the various coloured wing areas, applying light and electron microscopy and (micro)spectrophotometry, and we analysed the spatial reflection properties with imaging scatterometry. The scales in the white spots are unpigmented, those in the black and brown wing areas contain various amounts of melanin, and the orange wing scales contain a blue-absorbing ommochrome pigment. In all scale types, the upper lamina acts as a diffuser and the lower lamina as a thin film interference reflector, with thickness of about 200 nm. Scale stacking plays an important role in creating the strong visual signals: the colour of the white eyespots is created by stacks of unpigmented blue scales, while the orange wing colour is strongly intensified by stacking the orange scales.
Evaluation of a therapy for Idiopathic Chronic Enterocolitis in rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) and linked microbial community correlates
Authors: Taylor Joshua M. , Clarke Erik L. , Baker Kate , Lauder Abigail , Kim Dorothy , Bailey Aubrey , Wu Gary D. , Collman Ronald G. , Doyle-Meyers Lara , Russell-Lodrigue Kasi , Blanchard James , Bushman Frederic D. , Bohm Rudolf
Published: April 2018

Idiopathic chronic enterocolitis (ICE) is one of the most commonly encountered and difficult to manage diseases of captive rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta). The etiology is not well understood, but perturbations in gut microbial communities have been implicated. Here we evaluated the effects of a 14-day course of vancomycin, neomycin, and fluconazole on animals affected with ICE, comparing treated, untreated, and healthy animals. We performed microbiome analysis on duodenal and colonic mucosal samples and feces in order to probe bacterial and/or fungal taxa potentially associated with ICE. All treated animals showed a significant and long-lasting improvement in stool consistency over time when compared to untreated and healthy controls. Microbiome analysis revealed trends associating bacterial community composition with ICE, particularly lineages of the Lactobacillaceae family. Sequencing of DNA from macaque food biscuits revealed that fungal sequences recovered from stool were dominated by yeast-derived food additives; in contrast, bacteria in stool appeared to be authentic gut residents. In conclusion, while validation in larger cohorts is needed, the treatment described here was associated with significantly improved clinical signs; results suggested possible correlates of microbiome structure with disease, though no strong associations were detected between single microbes and ICE.
Lung Cancer Screening at US Hospitals for People Lacking Primary Care
Authors: DeSantis William , Ayoade Oluwaseun , Caturegli Giorgio , Boffa Daniel J.
Published: October 2024

This quality improvement study investigates how many US hospitals allow patients to schedule lung cancer screenings without a referral from a primary care practitioner.
Acid‐Responsive Polymer Additives Increase RNA Transfection from Lipid Nanoparticles
Authors: Cheung Timothy H. , Fuchs Alexander , Shoichet Molly S.
Published: October 2024

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are the most clinically advanced RNA delivery technology, but their efficiency is limited by low RNA release after endosome disruption. To improve RNA release, an acid‐responsive polymer is synthesized with which to formulate LNPs for RNA encapsulation and release. Specifically, three acid‐responsive poly(lactic acid)‐block‐poly(carboxybetaine) zwitterionic derivatives are designed and synthesized that are cationic and complexed with RNA at pH 7.4, but are neutral following cleavage at endosomal pH, thereby having lower affinity to RNA. The polymers are formulated into each of the clinically approved Onpattro, Moderna, or Pfizer LNP formulations to produce hybrid polymer‐lipid nanoparticles (PLNPs). With the PLNPs, the IC50 values of multiple small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) decreased up to 5.4‐fold compared to parent LNPs in several cell lines. Moreover, messenger RNA (mRNA) transfection increased up to two fold. The acid‐responsive polymers in PLNPs accounted for the enhanced RNA transfection as this phenomenon is lost with acid‐inert polymers. Confocal microscopy confirmed that cytosolic RNA concentration increased using the acid‐responsive polymers; conversely, uptake and endosomal escape are identical to existing LNPs. This confirmed that enhanced RNA transfection is due to increased RNA dissociation from its carrier. The novel polymer represents a versatile strategy to increase RNA transfection from LNPs.
Upcycling Industrial Biomass Wastes Into Aerogels Using Zinc Chloride Salt Hydrates
Authors: Zhang Mairui , Liao Yang , Han Nara , Lee Seoku , Leem Gyu , Kim Kwang Ho , Pan Xuejun , Wie Jeong Jae , Yoo Chang Geun
Published: October 2024

End‐of‐life paper products, including food packages and rejected fibers from the paper industry, are unrecyclable biomass wastes and thus generally landfilled or incinerated. One of the major obstacles to their recycling is the existence of impurities besides cellulose fiber in the biomass wastes. In this study, a fabrication method is investigated to upcycle biomass wastes directly into high‐performance aerogels without separation of impurities. Surprisingly, this study observes that residual impurities participate in cross‐linking reactions for the aerogel formation. In this study, zinc chloride salt hydrate is applied to convert biomass wastes to aerogel via a dissolution‐regeneration process. The fabricated aerogels exhibited high water absorption capacity (15 times its weight), as well as comparable mechanical strength and thermal insulation performance to the reported cellulose aerogels. In addition, the impurities (i.e., calcium‐based inorganic salt) assisted in the cross‐linking of the cellulose network for the aerogel formation. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image of the aerogel generated from the rejected fibers showed a honeycomb inner structure. The rejected fiber aerogels also demonstrated a high compressive modulus of 51 MPa and a low thermal conductivity of 0.029 W m−1 K−1. The results for water absorption and thermal insulation suggest excellent potential across various application domains.
Economic considerations of in‐season potassium applications to soybean using payoff matrices
Authors: Ortel C. C. , Roberts T. L. , Popp M. , Ross W. J. , Slaton N. A. , Parvej M. R.
Published: October 2024

Potassium (K) deficiency is a common yield‐limiting factor in Arkansas soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) production that can be addressed with innovative supplemental fertilizer application. An established leaf sampling protocol and dynamic critical concentration allow accurate diagnosis of K deficiency with corresponding recommendations for corrective, in‐season K fertilizer applications at site‐specific rates and times to reach anticipated yield goals. However, the profitability of in‐season K fertilizer applications to irrigated soybean remains unclear. Research was conducted in Arkansas from 2021 to 2023 to evaluate multiple rates of in‐season applications of muriate of potash to soybean at 15 and 30 days after first flower (DAR1). The economic ramifications of in‐season fertilizer applications were quantified by calculating yield averages, partial returns (PRs), and regret when comparing PR to not fertilizing, each assuming 5‐year average prices for fertilizer and soybean grain. Significant yield responses to in‐season potash fertilizer were found at both 15 and 30 DAR1 times. These yield increases translated to large increases in PR or lower regret when compared to using no fertilizer. Corrective applications of 74–112 kg K ha−1 were often considered optimal, with risk assessments provided to allow informed decisions. Results were summarized by category of leaf‐K concentration, and treatment averages were provided to calculate payoff matrices for 15 and 30 DAR1 times. The resulting payoff matrices can be used as a decision support tool with any grain and fertilizer price to facilitate informed management decisions that optimize profitability as soybean and fertilizer prices impact optimal outcomes.
Targeted microwave ablation of localised prostate cancer: Initial results of VIOLETTE trial
Authors: Delongchamps Nicolas Barry , Peltier Alexandre , Potiron Eric , Bladou Franck , Anract Julien , Diamand Romain , Robert Grégoire , Messas Aurel , Van Velthoven Roland
Published: October 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the precision and safety of targeted microwave ablation (TMA) using organ‐based tracking (OBT) fusion, in patients with intermediate risk prostate cancer.

Patients and method

We conducted a prospective, multicentric trial. Eligible patients had a prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) < 20 ng/mL, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐visible index tumour of Gleason score 3 + 4, with largest axis ≤15 mm and distant of at least 5 mm from the rectum and apex. TMA was performed with microwave needle applicator using OBT fusion, with a transperineal or a transrectal approach. In this interim analysis, we evaluated precision, safety, urinary and sexual outcomes, and PSA density kinetics.

Results

At this point, 37 patients were treated in five centres. Median (interquartile range) age is 68 (63–72) years. Baseline median prostate volume and PSA are of 45 (34–57) mL and 8 (6.2–10.8) ng/mL, respectively. Median largest tumour axis on T2W MRI is of 11 mm (10–13). Patients were treated under general anaesthesia or conscious IV sedation in an outpatient setting. Anaesthesia had a median duration of 78 (66–90) min. A median number of 3 (2–4) 12‐W ablations of 2 to 5 min were performed per patient. After a median follow‐up of 6 (2.4–10) months, we observed 58 adverse events (AE) in 22 patients. These were of Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) grade 1, 2 and 3 in 43 (74%), 13 (22%) and 2 (4%) cases. Six (15%) patients had an acute urinary retention, five of which considered as severe AE because of rehospitalisation. We did not observe any significant difference in International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Male Sexual Health Questionnaire‐ejaculatory dysfunction (MSHQ‐EjD) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF5) from baseline to last follow‐up. Median PSA density evolved from 0.2 (0.1–0.3) at baseline to 0.1 (0.07–0.16) at 12 months.

Conclusions

These preliminary results suggest that TMA using OBT fusion is precise and safe in patients with intermediate risk localised prostate cancer. Further inclusions and follow‐up are needed to assess oncological outcome.
The Heterotaxy Gene CCDC11 Is Important for Cytokinesis via RhoA Regulation
Authors: Kulkarni Saurabh S. , Stephenson Rachel E. , Amalraj Sarah , Arrigo Angelo , Betleja Ewelina , Moresco James J. , Yates John R. , Mahjoub Moe R. , Miller Ann L. , Khokha Mustafa K.
Published: October 2024

Mutations in CCDC11 (cfap53) have been identified in multiple patients with heterotaxy (Htx), a disorder of left–right (LR) patterning of the internal organs. In Xenopus, depletion of Ccdc11 causes defects in LR patterning, recapitulating the patient phenotype. Upon Ccdc11 depletion, monociliated cells of the Left–Right Organizer (LRO) exhibit multiple cilia per cell. Unexpectedly, we found that Ccdc11 is necessary for successful cytokinesis, explaining the multiciliation phenotype observed in Ccdc11‐depleted cells. The small GTPase RhoA is critical for cytokinesis, and our Ccdc11 depletion phenotypes are reminiscent of RhoA loss of function. Here, we demonstrate that during cytokinesis CCDC11 is localized to the cytokinetic contractile ring overlapping with RhoA, and CCDC11 regulates total RhoA protein levels. Our results connect CCDC11 to cytokinesis and LR patterning via RhoA regulation, providing a potential mechanism for heterotaxy disease pathogenesis.
Temperature‐Dependent Kinetics of Plasma‐Based CO2 Conversion: Interplay of Electron‐Driven and Thermal‐Driven Chemistry
Authors: Mohanan Aswath , Snoeckx Ramses , Cha Min Suk
Published: October 2024

The transformation of CO2 into chemical building blocks for various industries is considered a key technology in a net‐zero energy future. To realize this, plasma discharges are one of the most promising approaches thanks to their electron‐driven reactions and high operational flexibility. Most studies focused on room‐temperature and vibrationally‐excited discharges, however, lately, the importance of thermal reactions is considered. Therefore, we developed a temperature‐dependent plasma‐chemical reaction mechanism to investigate the temperature dependence of plasma‐based CO2 conversion. Here, we present the various effects of thermally‐driven reactions on the CO2 conversion as a function of the gas temperature and specific energy input. Our analysis pinpointed the key reactions controlling the plasma‐based CO2 conversion, shifting from an electron‐driven to a thermal‐driven regime. Additionally, we used the mechanism to verify the theoretical upper boundary of the process’ energy efficiency, and discussed how our findings could lead to the further development and optimization of plasma discharges for efficient CO2 conversion in the future.
Medulla Tetrapanacis water extract ameliorates mastitis by suppressing bacterial internalization and inflammation via MAPKs signaling in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Kwok Carsten Tsun‐Ka , Hu Yuanhao , Tsoi Bun , Wong Fiona , Hau Pak‐Ting , Tam Emily Wan‐Ting , Mok Daniel Kam‐Wah , Kwan Yiu‐Wa , Leung George Pak‐Heng , Lee Simon Ming‐Yuen , Li Jing‐Jing , Chow Franklin Wang‐Ngai , Seto Sai‐Wang
Published: October 2024

Medulla Tetrapanacis (MT) is a commonly used herbal ingredient in soup to promote lactation and management of mastitis among lactating mothers worldwide, particularly in Asian countries. However, scientific evidence to support its usage in the management of mastitis is limited. This study aimed to investigate the effects of MT water extract and its underlying mechanisms in Staphylococcus aureus (SA)–induced mastitis in human mammary epithelial cells (HuMEC) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)–induced mastitis in lactating Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. The anti‐inflammatory and antibacterial effects of MT water extract were examined in SA‐infected HuMEC by ELISA and plate counting, respectively. The effects of MT water extract on blood‐milk barrier and the underlying mechanism of action of the MT water extract were also investigated by transendothelial electrical resistance assay and western blot. The effects and mechanisms of MT water extract on alleviating mastitis on SD rats were evaluated using LPS‐induced mastitis rat model. Our results showed that MT water extract could suppress SA‐induced mastitis by reducing SA internalization and growth, protecting blood‐milk barrier integrity, and attenuating release of cytokines (interleukin 6 [IL‐6] and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha [TNF‐α]) in HuEMC. Furthermore, the antibacterial effect might be related to the increase of antimicrobial peptides transcription, and the anti‐inflammatory effect is at least partly mediated by inactivation of p38 and JNK signaling pathways. Finally, our in vivo results showed that MT water extract ameliorated LPS‐induced mastitis in SD rats via suppressing inflammatory cytokine release (TNF‐α, IL‐6, and interleukin‐1 beta), myeloperoxidase, and alleviating pathohistological damage by downregulation of JNK signaling pathway.
How laser material processing can benefit from OCT technology
Authors: Seiler Michael , Frank Samson , Thelemann Dennis , Elies Oliver , Teymori Pouria , Bliedtner Jens
Published: October 2024

Ultrashort‐pulse (USP) laser ablation enables the creation of freeform shapes that are challenging to produce with conventional optics manufacturing techniques. To maintain the industrial standards of many branches, it is crucial to not only consider material removal rates but also the surface quality and subsurface damage (SSD). This study investigates the SSD patterns generated in fused silica and quantifies key parameters such as the SSD depth by applying optical coherence tomography (OCT).
EPSPS gene amplification in a glyphosate‐resistant population of Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) from Oregon
Authors: Ribeiro Victor HV , Berry Pete , Creed Tim B , Barroso Judit , Mallory‐Smith Carol A , Gallagher Joseph P
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Lolium multiflorum Lam. (Italian ryegrass, annual ryegrass) is both a weed and a crop in Oregon. Because it is commonly managed using chemical controls, herbicide‐resistant populations have evolved within the seed production region. A glyphosate‐resistant population was identified in Yamhill County, Oregon, in a fallow field previously cropped with perennial ryegrass.

RESULTS

Dose–response studies showed that the glyphosate‐resistant population, OR12, was nine‐fold more resistant to glyphosate than the susceptible population. No EPSPS amino acid substitutions known to confer glyphosate resistance were observed via gene sequencing. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) of genomic DNA revealed a mean 30‐fold increase in EPSPS gene copies in the OR12 population. Biomass after glyphosate treatment was correlated with EPSPS gene copy number of individual plants.

CONCLUSION

This is the first known report of glyphosate resistance associated with EPSPS gene amplification to arise in L. multiflorum populations in Oregon. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.