bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stratification of Patients with COPD According to the 2011 GOLD Report
Authors: Grzelewska-Rzymowska Iwona , Patora-Mikołajczyk Joanna , Górski Paweł
Published: September 2014

Introduction: The authors aimed to compare the distribution of COPD based on the new GOLD grading with stadium based exclusively on spirometry. Material and Methods: Eligible patients had an average age of 64.8 years and smoked at least 10 pack-years. COPD was defined according to GOLD fixed cut-off criterion FEV1/FVC < 0.70. In all patients postbronchodilator spirometry was performed. Categories were defined with the mMRC dyspnoea scale and CAT scale. COPD exacerbations in the previous year and lung function were evaluated. Statistical comparisons were done using t-student test. Results: 315 COPD patients, 99 (31.4%) women and 216 (68.6%) men, were examined. Mean pack-years in the whole group was 47.1 ± 17.8. In women this figure was less than in men, 43.7 ± 19.2 vs. 49.5 ± 16.5 (p > 0.05), respectively. At study entry, 144 subjects (45.7%) were current smokers, and the majority of them (n-87, 60.4%) belonged to category D—26/66 (54.5%) women and 51/102 (50%) men. Based on spirometry alone, the patients were classified as moderate COPD 144 (45.71%), severe –154 (48.89%), and very severe 17 (5.4%). According to the 2011 GOLD report stratification, 60 patients (19.04%) were graded as category A, 63 (20%) as category B, 24 (7.62%) as category C, and 168 (53.33%) as category D, although 21 (12.5% of them) were in category B, but the number of exacerbations classified them as category D. Conclusions: The COPD population is heterogeneous in reference to the symptoms, value of FEV1, and susceptibility to exacerbations. Clinical symptoms assessed using validated questionnaires characterized COPD patients better than the value of spirometric parameters (which are necessary for diagnosis of this disease). Some patients were difficult to classify, especially those belonging to category C.
Prognostic Value of Serum C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and Cytokeratin 19 Fragments (Cyfra 21-1) but Not Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) in Surgically Treated Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Szturmowicz Monika , Rudziński Piotr , Kacprzak Aneta , Langfort Renata , Bestry Iwona , Broniarek-Samson Beata , Orłowski Tadeusz
Published: September 2014

Introduction: The aim of the study was to assess the prognostic value of cytokeratin 19 fragments (Cyfra 21-1), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in surgically treated NSCLC patients. Material and Methods: 50 NSCLC patients (25 adenocarcinoma, 21 squamous cell and 4 adenosquamous), clinical stages I and II, age 42–89 years, entered the study. CEA, Cyfra 21-1 and CRP concentrations were measured in serum taken before surgery, CEA and Cyfra 21-1 in 50 patients, CRP—in 46 patients. The survival was calculated from the date of surgical treatment until death or until the end of the observation time. The results were expressed as medians (95%CI). Results: Cyfra 21-1 concentration was 2.1 (0.7–14.5) ng/mL. Survival time in the patients with Cyfra 21-1 ≤ 2 ng/mL, and > 2 ng/ /mL was 79 (14.85–88.2) and 29 (5.7–87.6) months, (p < 0.026). CEA concentration was 2.68 (0.87–72.7) ng/mL, significantly higher in adenocarcinoma than in squamous cell lung cancer — 4.38 ng/mL (1.67–41.35) vs. 2.2 ng/mL (1.0–6.1), p = 0.002. CRP concentration was 5.45 (0–122.6) mg/L. Significant dependence was found between CRP and pathological tumour size (pT). Median CRP values in pT1, pT2 and pT3+4 tumours were: 2.8 mg/L, 6.9 mg/L and 23.5 mg/L, respectively. Survival time of the patients with CRP ≤ 10 mg/L and CRP > 10 mg/L was 79 (14.85–88.2) and 29.5 (5.7–87.6) months, respectively (p = 0.045). CRP > 10 mg/L and Cyfra 21-1 > 2 ng/mL were the only significant preoperative prognostic indicators (HR 2.08 and 2.04, respectively). Among the postoperative parameters, pathological stage of disease (p-stage) and pT were the significant prognostic indicators (HR 2.1 and 2.42, respectively). Conclusions: In the present study, concerning surgically treated NSCLC patients, preoperative CRP > 10 mg/L and Cyfra 21-1 > 2 ng/mL were the only negative prognostic indicators, while pT and p-stage were significant postoperative prognostic indicators.
Detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex DNA, Based on Post-Mortem Examination of Hilar Lymph Nodes with Real-Time PCR: Initial Study
Authors: Rzechorzek Wojciech , Szańkowska Michalina , Szczepankiewicz Benedykt , Cyran-Chlebicka Agata , Safianowska Aleksandra
Published: September 2014

Introduction: According to the WHO, almost a third of the world population are thought to be infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Some studies of the prevalence of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) have already been performed in Poland, showing that almost a quarter of the Mazovia population could be infected. It also indicated a higher prevalence of LTBI among seniors. Those studies were based on indirect diagnostic methods. Material and Methods: We randomly collected hilar lymph nodes from decedents aged 40 years and older during post-mortem examination. We excluded patients with previous confirmed tuberculosis. In addition, an autopsy was performed in all patients. Finally, we used real-time PCR Xpert MTB/RIF (Cepheid, USA) for the specific capture of mycobacterial DNA. Results: Twenty-two of 23 patients had a negative result of the real-time PCR examination and no signs of caseous necrosis in hilar lymph nodes. We found the only positive sample in a patient with histopathological signs of tuberculosis (the presence of caseous necrosis in the specimens obtained from lymph nodes and lung). Due to the change of cartridges from version G3 to G4, further reactions were inhibited and no more post-mortem samples were tested. Conclusions: Real-time PCR Xpert MTB/RIF was capable of detecting M. tuberculosis complex DNA in a patient with tuberculosis recognised on autopsy. In the remaining patients, no M. tuberculosis complex DNA was found, in accordance with negative results of histological examination. Since the technology of cartridges has changed, it is no longer possible to use real-time PCR Xpert MTB/RIF (Cepheid USA) on post-mortem material.
Pokrzywka Powysiłkowa i Obrzęk Naczynioruchowy—Opis Przypadku
Authors: Stelmach Iwona , Sztafińska Anna , Lechańka Joanna , Balcerak Joanna , Jerzyńska Joanna
Published: September 2014

Urticaria is a heterogeneous group of disorders, with various clinical manifestations and intensity of symptoms. Urticaria can be induced with a wide variety of environmental stimuli, such as cold, pressure, vibration, sunlight, exercise, temperature changes, heat, and water. In a select group of patients, exercise can induce a spectrum of urticaria symptoms, ranging from cutaneous pruritus and warmth, generalised urticaria, angioedema, and the appearance of such additional manifestations as collapse, upper respiratory distress, and anaphylaxis. Specific provocation tests should be carried out on an individual basis to investigate the suspected cause and proper diagnosis. Modification of activities and behaviour is the mainstay of treatment in patients with physical urticaria. The aim of this study was to emphasise that primary care paediatricians should be able to recognise physical urticaria, supply a patient with rescue medications, and refer him/her to a specialist. In the article, the authors present a 13-year-old girl with typical urticaria lesions and angioedema after exercise. According to the history, physical examination, and provocation test, exercise-induced urticaria and angioedema were diagnosed.
Acantholytic dyskeratotic acanthoma: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Goldenberg Alina , Lee Robert A. , Cohen Philip R.
Published: September 2014

Background: Focal acantholytic dyskeratosis has been described as an incidental finding and as a clinically distinct lesion. In both situations, a dimorphic histologic pattern is observed: acantholysis and dyskeratosis. Solitary, non-genital lesions displaying such pathology have been difficult to classify. Clinical and pathological characteristics of acantholytic dyskeratotic acanthomas are described.

Methods: The features of a patient with solitary, non-genital, acantholytic dyskeratotic acanthoma are presented and the literature on acantholytic dyskeratotic acanthomas is reviewed. Using PubMed the following terms were searched and relevant citations assessed: acantholysis, acanthoma, cutaneous, dyskeratosis, nail, warty.

Results: We identified 30 cutaneous acantholytic dyskeratotic acanthomas, including our patient, most often found on the trunk and mimicking basal cell carcinoma, and three subungual acantholytic dyskeratotic acanthomas of the thumb, which mimicked onychopapilloma.

Conclusion: Acantholytic dyskeratotic acanthomas are clinically and pathologically distinct lesions, which may morphologically present as either truncal plaques or subungual longitudinal erythronychia.
Desinstitucionalização: um desafio posto à política de Saúde Mental de Campos dos Goytacazes
Authors: Pereira Aline do Nascimento
Published: September 2014

O processo de Reforma Psiquiátrica brasileira, ainda em trânsito, é considerado um grande avanço no contexto da política de saúde mental por questionar e elaborar propostas visando à ruptura com o modelo clássico de tratamento, pautado no saber da psiquiatria e asilamento. Sob a perspectiva de desinstitucionalização, tais propostas são voltadas para a criação de uma rede de serviços, de base territorial e caráter multiprofissional, substitutivos ao hospital psiquiátrico. Desta forma, este artigo analisa a política de saúde mental em Campos dos Goytacazes a partir das propostas da Reforma Psiquiátrica.
Avaliação das características físico-químicas, microbiológicas e sensoriais de ricotas em pasta condimentadas
Authors: Andrade Sheila de , Floresta Paula Mariano da Motta , Martins Aurelia Dornelas de Oliveira , Martins Maurilio Lopes , Martins José Manoel
Published: September 2014

Ricota é um queijo de origem italiana, fabricada por meio de precipitação ácida para separação das proteínas do soro do leite. Esse queijo pode ser consumido natural, com ou sem sal, ou ainda condimentado. O objetivo dessa pesquisa foi elaborar ricota em pasta com diferentes condimentos com a finalidade de avaliar suas características físico-químicas, microbiológicas e sensoriais após a fabricação (tempo zero) e após sete dias de armazenamento (tempo 7). Assim foram produzidas cinco tipos de ricotas condimentadas, com alho, salsa, manjericão e ervas. Quanto as características físicoquímicas variaram de 76,13 a 77,38 para umidade, de 6,03 a 6,09 para pH e para EST de 22,61 a 23,87. Nas análises microbiológicas foram observados os seguintes resultados: < 0,3 NMP/g de coliformes tanto no tempo zero como no tempo 7, < 1,0 x 101 UFC/g de estafilococos produtores de coagulase positiva para o tempo zero e tempo 7 e contagem total de aeróbios mesofilos entre, 2,2 x 102 e 2,8 x 103UFC/g para o tempo zero e 3,2 x 103 a 3,8 x 104 UFC/g. A resposta de aceitação das diferentes amostras de ricotas condimentadas foi “gostei moderadamente”. Todas as ricotas estão de acordo com as legislações vigentes.
Avaliação sensorial de fermentados alcoólicos de jabuticaba produzidos na cidade de Varre-Sai, RJ
Authors: Gonçalves Leticia Tinoco , Souza Vagner Rocha Simonin de
Published: September 2014

A jabuticaba (Myrciariasp) é uma fruta nativa da Mata Atlântica, pertencente à família Myrtaceae, e é muito vista no Brasil. Por ser consumida in natura ou industrializada, e pela multiplicidade de uso, apresenta apreciável potencial econômico. Em Varre-Sai, é expressiva a utilização da jabuticaba para a produção de fermentados alcoólicos, sendo uma alternativa utilizada para evitar desperdícios e aproveitar ao máximo a fruta, que apresenta considerável valor nutricional. A jabuticaba apresenta entre 310 e 315mg de antocianinas por 100g da fruta, valor relativamente alto se comparado com outras frutas consideradas ricas em antioxidantes. Logo, realizar a análise sensorial de fermentados alcoólicos de jabuticaba produzidos em Varre-Sai, Rio de Janeiro, pode melhorar a qualidade do produto e quantificar o potencial de vendas. Tendo em vista que a parte da jabuticaba rica em compostos fenólicos é a casca, o uso integral da fruta é a melhor opção para aproveitar todos os seus benefícios. A análise sensorial avaliou a aceitação do fermentado alcoólico de jabuticaba, em relação aos seus atributos: avaliação global, cor, sabor e aroma, com base numa escala hedônica de 9 pontos, com extremidades denominadas: desgostei extremamente (1) e gostei extremamente (9), e a intenção de compra dos provadores por uma escala hedônica de 5 pontos, com pontos âncoras: certamente compraria (5) e certamente não compraria (1). Os resultados obtidos mostraram que os provadores tiveram boa aceitação dos produtos, o fermentado Tinto Doce foi o melhor classificado em todos os atributos, obtendo 90,18% de frequência na parte da aceitação da escala hedônica, com relação à aceitação global. Inclusive, na situação hipotética de compra, o mesmo recebeu 74,5% dos votos na parte boa da escala. Isso mostra que o fermentado alcoólico pode ser uma alternativa no consumo de antioxidantes, sua produção pode melhorar a renda dos produtores e também ajudar a evitar o desperdício da fruta.
O prefácio de Cegalla: análise sob as perspectivas sociolinguísticas e o conceito de ethos da Análise do Discurso Francesa
Authors: Oliveira Thiago Soares de
Published: September 2014

Este trabalho propõe, como o resultado de uma pesquisa bibliográfica, a análise teórica acerca do aspecto de dominação contido no discurso normativista do professor Domingos Paschoal Cegalla a partir do exame de trechos do prefácio da obra Novíssima Gramática da Língua Portuguesa, desvelando o ethos autoral que ora se acoberta nas entrelinhas do preâmbulo, ora se evidencia na abordagem conservadora de conceitos já desconstruídos pela Sociolinguística. Logo, pretende-se demonstrar que tal obra, apesar de se posicionar em repúdio ao dogmatismo intransigente, propala a resistência ao dinamismo linguístico.
Sensoriamento remoto aplicado ao estudo da vegetação com ênfase em índice de vegetação e métricas da paisagem
Authors: Abreu Karla Maria Pedra de , Coutinho Luciano Melo
Published: September 2014

O presente trabalho consiste em uma revisão bibliográfica sobre o sensoriamento remoto, com enfoque no estudo da vegetação. Nele são abordados fundamentos, conceitos e métodos. Delimitam sua história os períodos de uso de sistemas fotográficos, a evolução e a multiplicidade dos sistemas imageadores. Descrevem-se princípios e métodos necessários para correção, tratamento, interpretação visual, avaliação de parâmetros das imagens e cruzamento de dados aplicados a estudos de índices de vegetação (NDVI) e de paisagens. A eficácia dos estudos da vegetação via sensoriamento remoto é embasada pelos resultados e pelas considerações obtidas por revisão conceitual, que priorizou a consulta a periódicos especializados.
Aplicação das concentrações e proporções de nutrientes no diagnóstico da eutrofização
Authors: Souza Juliana Sobreira de , Pedrosa Paulo , Gatts Pedro Vianna , Gravina Geraldo de Amaral
Published: September 2014

Esta revisão aborda a aplicação das concentrações e proporções de nutrientes (nitrogênio e fósforo) no diagnóstico da eutrofização em águas naturais. Foi realizado um breve histórico sobre a eutrofização e considerações sobre os elementos eutrofizantes. O uso das razões no diagnóstico da eutrofização apresenta limitações, uma vez que existem outros parâmetros que impedem a proliferação do fitoplâncton mesmo em condições ótimas de nutrientes. Os bioensaios são utilizados para identificar a limitação de nutrientes ao crescimento fitoplanctônico, enquanto o índice de estado trófico é utilizado para avaliar o estado de enriquecimento nutricional de um ecossistema aquático. Este trabalho destaca a importância do estudo de diagnóstico da eutrofização nas águas naturais submetidas aos impactos decorrentes da ação humana e sugere ações para melhoria de suas condições, como a proteção de matas ciliares, terraceamento de áreas agrícolas, a utilização da quantidade necessária de fertilizantes e o tratamento dos efluentes oriundos dos esgotos para reduzir as cargas de N e P para os ambientes lóticos.
A consolidação de grupos de aprendizagem em projeto de formação continuada
Authors: Marinho da Silva Fernanda Keila , Lousada Cracel Viviane , Compiani Maurício
Published: September 2014

Este artigo relata e discute a importância e a consolidação de um grupo de estudos formado por professores da Educação Básica e acadêmicos em uma proposta de trabalho colaborativo. Partindo de enunciados produzidos pelos próprios professores e de registros obtidos com a participação em reuniões coletivas, o texto destaca a existência dos avanços reflexivos dos docentes e a dificuldade dos acadêmicos em lidar com entraves vividos pelos professores na experiência formativa. Essa análise baseia-se na perspectiva bakhtiniana acerca do enunciado, que pressupõe a interação social como forma de compreender os episódios citados neste trabalho. Conclui enfatizando a importância da consolidação do grupo para a construção de caminhos reflexivos da parte dos acadêmicos e professores e buscando um esclarecimento da compreensão de uma pesquisa colaborativa.
Diferentes olhares sobre a docência: de qual professor estamos falando?
Authors: Hatschbach Ourique Maiane Liana , Pereira Ourique João Luis
Published: September 2014

Este trabalho visa repercutir algumas imagens de professor propagadas nos discursos atuais da educação, enfocando as expectativas e demandas que corroboram para compor diferentes figuras docentes. Por um lado, as políticas públicas valem-se de um imaginário social da profissão para associar a qualidade na educação à competência profissional docente. Por outro, os diferentes registros do cotidiano educacional brasileiro mostram a miserabilidade material e pedagógica do trabalho do professor. A partir do tensionamento entre esses dois pontos, indaga-se sobre quais concepções de racionalidade e formação respaldam os discursos normativos da docência. Ainda, essas imagens-modelo de professor conseguem enfrentar de forma efetiva as problemáticas da escola contemporânea? À luz das dimensões formativas da Teoria Crítica, este estudo dá especial atenção aos escritos de Theodor Adorno, realizando uma leitura hermenêutica do espaço configurado entre o proposto e o desenvolvido no campo da docência.
Evasão ou permanência na profissão: políticas educacionais e representações sociais de professores
Authors: Ens Romilda Teodora , Eyng Ana Maria , Gisi Maria Lourdes , Stiegler Ribas Marciele
Published: September 2014

Este trabalho considera as interferências das mudanças ocorridas nas sociedades contemporâneas na profissão docente, em especial, em relação à valorização do professor e sua permanência na profissão. A pesquisa tem como base as representações de professores do Ensino Fundamental II sobre continuar ou não na profissão, e, para isso, tomamos inicialmente o contexto da formação docente no Brasil, em relação à valorização e à profissionalização do professor, para subsidiar a análise das representações dos professores. Os resultados indicam que as representações sobre a profissão relacionadas à não permanência decorrem de problemas como: desvalorização, baixos salários, dificuldades em relação ao comportamento dos alunos e falta de condições de trabalho para o exercício da profissão, em razão do pouco investimento na educação. Tais questões podem ser motivo da diminuição da procura pela docência na Educação Básica e da grande evasão dos cursos de licenciatura. Os professores que pretendem continuar na profissão revelam razões atreladas a aspectos afetivos, sem uma análise crítica dos aspectos políticos e da falta de condições objetivas de trabalho.
Ethos, fato religioso e diversidade: como selecionar conteúdos e trabalhar estratégias
Authors: De Itoz Sonia
Published: September 2014

Propomos com este ensaio discutir questões metodológicas do Ensino Religioso no que se refere a conteúdos e estratégias. Tomamos como referência o eixo temático Ethos, pautando-nos primeiramente por uma definição e compreensão de seu sentido e significado, e discutindo o que implica a construção da figura de um “alguém” e de uma coletividade situados na cultura humana. Entendemos aqui que o indivíduo e as organizações socioculturais tornam-se o lugar-espaço da manifestação de existir, nos quais também se configura a concretude do fato religioso. Daí a importância do trabalho com a diversidade de concepções, de organizações e de expressões para que a escola e o Ensino Religioso colaborem com a formação integral do indivíduo-cidadão. Em seguida, partimos das indagações de cunho pedagógico “o quê?” e “como?” e buscamos situar uma compreensão de conteúdos e estratégias, para o trabalho do componente curricular Ensino Religioso. Entendemos, assim, ser necessário ter clareza e conhecimento para escolher, eleger e selecionar, para cada faixa etária, conteúdos adequados e apropriados, e saber que estratégias desenvolver para um ensino e uma aprendizagem significativos. A premissa básica e primeira que se coloca é que o trabalho pedagógico-educacional do Ensino Religioso deve contribuir com o currículo escolar e com a formação de um cidadão integrado e atuante. Por consequência, o indivíduo elabora instrumentos de leitura de mundo e insere-se no contexto da própria vida, a partir da apropriação do conhecimento, contribuindo no respeito ao outro e ao diferente e desenvolvendo relações de paz e de dignidade para todos.
Ensino Religioso e a gestão educacional: uma análise a partir da ética complexa de Edgar Morin
Authors: Smarjassi Célia
Published: September 2014

Este trabalho busca desenvolver uma reflexão sobre a gestão do Ensino Religioso na condição pós-moderna na qual a relação com o divino não seja mais pautada pelo medo, pela superstição e, principalmente, pelo fundamentalismo e pela violência, mas pelo princípio ético da solidariedade, do respeito, do reconhecimento mútuo e da tolerância. Elencar desafios impostos à gestão escolar, sobretudo na complexidade do contexto atual, representa um problema ainda maior quando se busca promover um ensino público de qualidade que respeite as diferenças culturais, religiosas e individuais dos educandos, sem, contudo, recair numa orientação para valores. Essa eta exige do gestor mais do que competência técnica e política: exige competência humana, responsabilidade social e liderança como serviço. Gerir a disciplina Ensino Religioso em uma escola laica e plural requer do gestor um cuidado especial com as regras de convivência social e democrática, buscando fundamentos, princípios e rumos que norteiem a prática desse componente curricular de modo a alcançar a equidade entre os atores envolvidos dentro da instituição escolar. Com base nos pressupostos da Teoria da Complexidade, nossa reflexão sobre o ER parte de uma perspectiva dialógica de compreensão do ER. O enfoque da ética complexa será priorizado em nossa análise crítica sobre a gestão educacional do ER. A metodologia utilizada baseia-se na pesquisa bibliográfica.#]
Ensino Religioso: currículo, programas e formação[T] [I]
Authors: Caron Lurdes
Published: September 2014

As mudanças rápidas no mundo globalizado da ciência, das ideias, e as inovações tecnológicas repercutem no processo educacional. Em meio a essas mudanças, as disciplinas curriculares da educação para os diferentes níveis de ensino passam por reflexões e questionamentos, fato que envolve o componente curricular de Ensino Religioso (ER). Este ensino faz parte da área do conhecimento do fenômeno religioso e está garantido na legislação, em igualdade com as demais disciplinas curriculares. Ensino Religioso articulado com os diferentes conhecimentos do currículo se constitui em uma disciplina de tratamento pedagógico. Esta reflexão parte da pergunta: qual currículo de Ensino Religioso que, na contemporaneidade, atende às exigências de formação do educando da Educação Básica? É um trabalho de abordagem qualitativa com pesquisa teórico-bibliográfica que tem como objetivo desenvolver reflexão sobre currículo e Ensino Religioso escolar na formação de educandos; descrever a contextualização curricular do Ensino Religioso na história da educação brasileira; conhecer o processo de construção dos Parâmetros Curriculares Nacionais do Ensino Religioso na contemporaneidade. Espera-se que esta reflexão, além de resgate histórico, contribua para gerar novas pesquisas sobre currículo, principalmente, com o Ensino Religioso, a partir do pedagógico.
A Ciência da Religião como disciplina auxiliar da Teologia das Religiões
Authors: Usarski Frank
Published: September 2014

O diálogo inter-religioso representa para a Ciência da Religião uma oportunidade modelar e paradigmática de demonstrar sua função construtiva para a Teologia. Justificando e concretizando essa reivindicação, o artigo apresenta um exemplo de como a Ciência da Religião pode desempenhar um papel auxiliar à Teologia das Religiões. Na primeira parte, o texto esboça a síntese de posturas teológicas diante do pluralismo religioso sistematizada por Paul Knitter. Em seguida, oferece-se um resumo da religiosidade popular na Birmânia (Myanmar), caracterizada pela veneração póstuma de heróis locais divinizados como nats. Trata-se de uma religiosidade que foge da sistematização das posturas teológicas sugerida por Knitter. A terceira parte dedica-se à discussão sobre as possíveis lições a serem tomadas a partir do exemplo da religiosidade dos nats para uma Teologia das Religiões aperfeiçoada.
Statistical investigation of VLF quasiperiodic emissions measured by the DEMETER spacecraft
Authors: Hayosh M. , Němec F. , Santolík O. , Parrot M.
Published: September 2014

We present a survey of quasiperiodic (QP) ELF/VLF emissions detected onboard the DEMETER (Detection of Electro‐Magnetic Emissions Transmitted from Earthquake Regions) satellite (altitude of about 700 km, nearly Sun‐synchronous orbit at 10:30/22:30 LT). Six years of data have been visually inspected for the presence of QP emissions with modulation periods higher than 10 s and with frequency bandwidths higher than 200 Hz. It is found that these QP events occur in about 5% of daytime half orbits, while they are basically absent during the night. The events occur predominantly during quiet geomagnetic conditions following the periods of enhanced geomagnetic activity. Their occurrence and properties are systematically analyzed. QP emissions occur most often at frequencies from about 750 Hz to 2 kHz, but they may be observed at frequencies as low as 500 Hz and as high as 8 kHz. Modulation periods of QP events may range from about 10 to 100 s, with typical values of 20 s. Frequency drifts of the identified events are generally positive, but they are lower for events with larger modulation periods. The events are usually limited to higher L values (L > 2). The upper L shell boundary of their occurrence could not be identified using the DEMETER data, but they are found to extend up to at least L ~ 6. The occurrence rate of the events is significantly lower at the longitudes of the South Atlantic anomaly (by a factor of more than 2).
Paleotsunami evidence on Kaua‘i and numerical modeling of a great Aleutian tsunami
Authors: Butler Rhett , Burney David , Walsh David
Published: September 2014

The Hawaiian Islands' location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean is threatened by tsunamis from great earthquakes in nearly all directions. Historical great earthquakes Mw > 8.5 in the last 100 years have produced large inundations and loss of life in the islands but cannot account for a substantial (≤ 600 m3) paleotsunami deposit in the Makauwahi sinkhole on the Island of Kaua‘i. Using high‐resolution bathymetry and topography we model tsunami inundation of the sinkhole caused by an earthquake with a moment magnitude of Mw ~9.25 located in the eastern Aleutians. A preponderance of evidence indicates that a giant earthquake in the eastern Aleutian Islands circa 1425–1665 A.D.—located between the source regions of the 1946 and 1957 great tsunamigenic earthquakes—created the paleotsunami deposit in Kaua‘i. A tsunami deposit in the Aleutians dated circa 1530–1660 A.D. is consistent with this eastern Aleutian source region.
Inner magnetospheric electron temperature and spacecraft potential estimated from concurrent Polar upper hybrid frequency and relative potential measurements
Authors: Boardsen S. A. , Adrian M. L. , Pfaff R. , Menietti J. D.
Published: September 2014

Direct measurement of low < 1 eV electron temperature is difficult to make in the Earth's inner magnetosphere for electron densities (Ne) < 3 × 102 cm−3. We compute these quantities by solving current balance equations in low‐density regions. Concurrent measurements from the Polar spacecraft of the relative potential (VS − VP), between the spacecraft body and the electric field probe, and the electron density (Ne), derived from upper hybrid frequency (fUHR), were used in the current balance equations to solve for the electron temperature (Te), Vs, and Vp. Where VP is the probe potential and VS is the spacecraft potential relative to the nearby plasma. The assumption that the bulk plasma electrons are Maxwellian is used in the computations. Our data set covered 1.5 years of measurements when fUHR was detectable (L < 10). The following “averaged” Te versus L relation for 3 < L < 5 was obtained: Te = 0.58 + 0.49 (L − 3) eV. This expression is in reasonable agreement with extrapolations of ionospheric Te measurements by Akebono at lower altitudes. However, the solution is sensitive to the photoemission coefficients, substituting those of Scudder et al. (2000) with those of Escoubet et al. (1997), the Te curve shifted upward by ~1 eV. Also, the solution is sensitive to measurement error of VS − VP, applying a voltage shift of ±0.1 and ±0.2 V to VS − VP, the relative median error for our data set was computed to be 0.27 and 1.04, respectively. We believe that our Te values computed outside the plasmasphere are unrealistically low. We conclude that this method shows promise inside the plasmasphere but should be used with caution. We also quantified the Ne versus VS − VP relationship. The running median Ne versus VS − VP curve shows no significant variation over the 1.5 year period of the data set, suggesting that the photoemission coefficients did not change significantly over this time span. The Scudder et al. (2000) Ne model, based on only one Polar orbit, is in reasonable agreement (within a factor of 2) with our results.
High‐resolution near‐bottom vector magnetic anomalies over Raven Hydrothermal Field, Endeavour Segment, Juan de Fuca Ridge
Authors: Tivey Maurice A. , Johnson H. Paul , Salmi Marie S. , Hutnak Michael
Published: September 2014

High‐resolution, near‐bottom vector magnetic data were collected by remotely operated vehicle Jason over the Raven hydrothermal vent field (47°57.3′N 129°5.75′W) located north of Main Endeavour vent field on the Endeavour segment of the Juan de Fuca Ridge. The survey was part of a comprehensive heat flow study of the Raven site using innovative thermal blanket technology to map the heat flux and crustal fluid pathways around a solitary hydrothermal vent field. Raven hydrothermal activity is presently located along the western axial valley wall, while additional inactive hydrothermal deposits are found to the NW on the upper rift valley wall. Magnetic inversion results show discrete areas of reduced magnetization associated with both active and inactive hydrothermal vent deposits that also show high conductive heat flow. Higher spatial variability in the heat flow patterns compared to the magnetization is consistent with the heat flow reflecting the currently active but ephemeral thermal environment of fluid flow, while crustal magnetization is representative of the static time‐averaged effect of hydrothermal alteration. A general NW to SE trend in reduced magnetization across the Raven area correlates closely with the distribution of hydrothermal deposits and heat flux patterns and suggests that the fluid circulation system at depth is likely controlled by local crustal structure and magma chamber geometry. Magnetic gradient tensor components computed from vector magnetic data improve the resolution of the magnetic anomaly source and indicate that the hydrothermally altered zone directly beneath the Raven site is approximately 15 × 106 m3 in volume.
Differences in deep convective transport characteristics between quasi‐isolated strong convection and mesoscale convective systems using seasonal WRF simulations
Authors: Bigelbach B. C. , Mullendore G. L. , Starzec M.
Published: September 2014

We utilize the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model with chemistry to simulate mass transport during the 2007 convective season in the U.S. Southern Great Plains at convection‐allowing scale. Resolved storms are classified using an object‐based classification scheme. This scheme uses model‐derived radar reflectivity to classify storm type as quasi‐isolated strong convection (QISC) or mesoscale convective system (MCS). Differences between QISCs and MCSs are investigated by analysis of two transport parameters for each convective object: the level of maximum detrainment (LMD) and the detrainment mass flux. Analysis of the mean LMD showed differences between the two regimes is statistically significantly different in May, as the mean QISC LMD is 440 m higher than the mean MCS LMD in May, and statistically insignificant in July where the mean QISC LMD is only 350 m higher. The detrainment flux per deeply convective object showed statistically significant differences between the two regimes in both May (MCS 4.8 times greater than QISC) and July (MCS 6.8 times greater than QISC). Over the entire study period, MCS storms accounted for 72% of the total mass detrainment, even though QISCs were twice as common as MCSs. However, differences in the detrainment flux per unit area of deep convection showed that QISCs exhibited stronger flux (1.1 times greater) than MCSs in both months. Analysis of tropopause‐relative LMDs showed that QISCs detrained the maximum amount of mass closer to the tropopause altitude than MCSs for both months. However, only in May is the difference statistically significant (430 m closer).
Interactions between barrier islands and backbarrier marshes affect island system response to sea level rise: Insights from a coupled model
Authors: Walters David , Moore Laura J. , Duran Vinent Orencio , Fagherazzi Sergio , Mariotti Giulio
Published: September 2014

Interactions between backbarrier marshes and barrier islands will likely play an important role in determining how low‐lying coastal systems respond to sea level rise and changes in storminess in the future. To assess the role of couplings between marshes and barrier islands under changing conditions, we develop and apply a coupled barrier island‐marsh model (GEOMBEST+) to assess the impact of overwash deposition on backbarrier marsh morphology and of marsh morphology on rates of island migration. Our model results suggest that backbarrier marsh width is in a constant state of change until either the backbarrier basin becomes completely filled or backbarrier marsh deposits have completely eroded away. Results also suggest that overwash deposition is an important source of sediment, which allows existing narrow marshes to be maintained in a long‐lasting alternate state (~500 m wide in the Virginia Barrier Islands) within a range of conditions under which they would otherwise disappear. The existence of a narrow marsh state is supported by observations of backbarrier marshes along the eastern shore of Virginia. Additional results suggest that marshes reduce accommodation in the backbarrier bay, which, in turn, decreases island migration rate. As climate change results in sea level rise, and the increased potential for intense hurricanes resulting in overwash, it is likely that these couplings will become increasingly important in determining future system behavior.
An optical data transmission system for blind persons by means of a mobile phone with the Android operating system
Authors: Łutkowski A. , Skulimowski P. , Poryzała P.
Published: September 2014

The paper describes an optical data transmission system supporting blind and partially sighted persons in an indoor navigation, mainly in identification of offices in public buildings. Two‐dimensional data matrix barcodes (ISO/IEC 16022) are sequentially displayed on a small LED matrix mounted on a wall in a close proximity to all potential points of interest. The user must be equipped with an Android mobile device with a pre‐installed software, which locates and processes barcode sequences recorded by a camera. Sequences are decoded as plain text English messages and read by an additional text‐to‐speech software installed on the mobile device. To evaluate its performance, the system was implemented and tested at the Lodz University of Technology. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional Selenium Nanoparticles Enhanced Stem Cell Osteoblastic Differentiation through BMP Signaling Pathways
Authors: Zheng Chuping , Wang Jinsheng , Liu Yanan , Yu Qianqian , Liu Ying , Deng Ning , Liu Jie
Published: September 2014

Stem cells have generated a great deal of excitement in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, and it is important to understand the interaction mechanisms between nanomaterials and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for biomedical applications. In this study, ruthenium (II) functional selenium nanoparticles (Ru@Se) are used for stem cell research. Specifically, Ru@Se are compared with citric acid selenium nanoparticles (Cit@Se)to identify their effects on MSCs differentiation and associated molecular mechanism. These data suggest that the effective adsorbing abilities of Ru@Se and Cit@Se allow them to act as preconcentration materials for osteogenic chemical inducers, which accelerates MSCs differentiation into osteoblasts. Further results suggest that selenium nanoparticles enhance the differentiation of MSCs toward osteogenic lineage over adipocytes by promoting osteogenic transcription and attenuating adipogenic transcription. Ru@Se and Cit@Se exert these effects by activating Smad‐dependent BMP signaling pathway, which regulates the expression of relevant genes to induce osteogenic differentiation.
Ultrasmall Graphene Oxide Supported Gold Nanoparticles as Adjuvants Improve Humoral and Cellular Immunity in Mice
Authors: Cao Yuhua , Ma Yufei , Zhang Mengxin , Wang Haiming , Tu Xiaolong , Shen He , Dai Jianwu , Guo Huichen , Zhang Zhijun
Published: September 2014

Adjuvants play an important role in vaccines. Alum and MF59 are two dominant kinds of adjuvants used in humans. Both of them, however, have limited capacity to generate the cellular immune response required for vaccines against cancers and viral diseases. It is desirable to develop new and efficient adjuvants with the aim of improving the cellular immune response against the antigen. Here, the feasibility and efficiency of ultrasmall graphene oxide supported gold nanoparticles (usGO‐Au) as a new immune adjuvant to improve immune responses are explored. usGO‐Au is obtained from reduction of chloroauric acid using usGO and then decorated with ovalbumin (OVA, a model antigen) through physical adsorption to construct usGO‐Au@OVA. As the results show, the as‐synthesized usGO‐Au@OVA can efficiently stimulate RAW264.7 cells to secrete tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), a mediator for cellular immune response. In vivo studies demonstrate that usGO‐Au@OVA can also promote robust OVA specific antibody response, CD8+ T cells proliferation, and different cytokines secretion. The results indicate that using usGO‐Au as an adjuvant can stimulate potent humoral and cellular immune responses against antigens, which may promote better understanding of cellular immune response and facilitate potential applications for cancer and viral vaccines.
Structure Tuning of Crown Ether Grafted Conjugated Polymers as the Electron Transport Layer in Bulk‐Heterojunction Polymer Solar Cells for High Performance
Authors: Li Yi‐Lun , Cheng Yu‐Shan , Yeh Po‐Nan , Liao Sih‐Hao , Chen Show‐An
Published: September 2014

A series of novel electron transport (ET) polymers composed of different conjugated main chains (fluorene, thiophene, and 2,7‐carbazole) and crown ether side chain (crown ether, aza‐crown ether and amine) is presented for bulk‐heterojunction polymer solar cells with poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) or poly[[4,8‐bis[(2‐ethylhexyl)oxy]benzo [1,2‐b:4,5‐b′] dithiophene‐2,6‐diyl][3‐fluoro‐2‐[(2‐ethylhexyl)carbonyl]thieno[3,4‐b]thiophenediyl]](PTB7) as the active polymer and aluminum metal as the cathode. Unexpectedly, it is found that the main chain of ET polymers has a greater effect on the interfacial dipole than the side chain, even when attaching a high polarity group. The electron‐rich bridge atom of the main chain may also contribute appreciably to the interfacial dipole. When used as the ET layer, all of these polymers can generate an optical interference effect for redistribution of the optical electric field as an optical spacer and, therefore, allow more light to be absorbed by the active layer, thus leading to an increase in short‐circuit current density. They can also block hole diffusion to the cathode and prevent electron–hole recombination during the ET process. Among the five ET polymers investigated, PCCn6 is the most effective one, providing a remarkable improvement in the power conversion efficiency (measured in air) of the device to 8.13% compared to 5.20% for PTB7:[6,6]‐phenyl‐C71‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC71BM).
Hierarchical Carbon–Nitrogen Architectures with Both Mesopores and Macrochannels as Excellent Cathodes for Rechargeable Li–O2 Batteries
Authors: Zhang Zhang , Bao Jie , He Chen , Chen Yanan , Wei Jinping , Zhou Zhen
Published: September 2014

Lithium–oxygen batteries are attracting more and more interest; however, their poor rechargeability and low efficiency remain critical barriers to practical applications. Herein, hierarchical carbon–nitrogen architectures with both macrochannels and mesopores are prepared through an economical and environmentally benign sol–gel route, which show high electrocatalytic activity and stable cyclability over 160 cycles as cathodes for Li–O2 batteries. Such good performance owes to the coexistence of macrochannels and mesopores in C–N hierarchical architectures, which greatly facilitate the Li+ diffusion and electrolyte immersion, as well as provide an effective space for O2 diffusion and O2/Li2O2 conversion. Additionally, the mechanism of oxygen reduction reactions is discussed with the N‐rich carbon materials through first‐principles computations. The lithiated pyridinic N provides excellent O2 adsorption and activation sites, and thus catalyzes the electrode processes. Therefore, hierarchical carbon–nitrogen architectures with both macrochannels and mesopores are promising cathodes for Li–O2 batteries.
Magnetically Engineered Semiconductor Quantum Dots as Multimodal Imaging Probes
Authors: Jing Lihong , Ding Ke , Kershaw Stephen V. , Kempson Ivan M. , Rogach Andrey L. , Gao Mingyuan
Published: September 2014

Light‐emitting semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) combined with magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents within a single nanoparticle platform are considered to perform as multimodal imaging probes in biomedical research and related clinical applications. The principles of their rational design are outlined and contemporary synthetic strategies are reviewed (heterocrystalline growth; co‐encapsulation or assembly of preformed QDs and magnetic nanoparticles; conjugation of magnetic chelates onto QDs; and doping of QDs with transition metal ions), identifying the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches. Some of the opportunities and benefits that arise through in vivo imaging using these dual‐mode probes are highlighted where tumor location and delineation is demonstrated in both MRI and fluorescence modality. Work on the toxicological assessments of QD/magnetic nanoparticles is also reviewed, along with progress in reducing their toxicological side effects for eventual clinical use. The review concludes with an outlook for future biomedical imaging and the identification of key challenges in reaching clinical applications.
Selectively Patterning Polymer Opal Films via Microimprint Lithography
Authors: Ding Tao , Zhao Qibin , Smoukov Stoyan K. , Baumberg Jeremy J.
Published: September 2014

Large‐scale structural color flexible coatings have been hard to create, and patterning color on them is key to many applications, including large‐area strain sensors, wall‐size displays, security devices, and smart fabrics. To achieve controlled tuning, a micro‐imprinting technique is applied here to pattern both the surface morphology and the structural color of the polymer opal films (POFs). These POFs are made of 3D ordered arrays of hard spherical particles embedded inside soft shells. The soft outer shells cause the POFs to deform upon imprinting with a pre‐patterned stamp, driving a flow of the soft polymer and a rearrangement of the hard spheres within the films. As a result, a patterned surface morphology is generated within the POFs and the structural colors are selectively modified within different regions. These changes are dependent on the pressure, temperature, and duration of imprinting, as well as the feature sizes in the stamps. Moreover, the pattern geometry and structural colors can then be further tuned by stretching. Micropattern color generation upon imprinting depends on control of colloidal transport in a polymer matrix under shear flow and brings many potential properties including stretchability and tunability, as well as being of fundamental interest.
Effect of Heat Treatment on the Optical Properties of Plasma‐Polymerized Vinylene Carbonate Thin Films
Authors: MAJUMDER SUNIRMAL , BHUIYAN A. H.
Published: September 2014

This paper describes the effect of heat treatment on the optical properties of plasma‐polymerized vinylene carbonate (PPVC) thin films deposited on to glass substrates by low‐pressure glow discharge plasma. Surface morphology and chemical structure of heat‐treated PPVC were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, respectively. The surfaces of the PPVC thin films are observed to be smooth and pinhole free, and no significant change is observed due to heat treatment up to 573 K. The structural analyses of PPVC indicate that structural rearrangements may be due to the breaking of bonds, and this process enhances due to heat treatment. Ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopic studies have been carried out on the as‐grown and heat‐treated PPVC thin films of different thicknesses. It is seen that the absorbance increases with the increase in the thickness and heat treatment temperature. The direct band gap energies were found to be in the range of 3.96–4.15 eV for as deposited, and those were in the range of 3.15–4.00 eV for the PPVC thin films heat treated at 473 and 573 K. The band gap of the PPVC thin film decreases gradually with increasing heat treatment temperature.