bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Permanent flame-blunted monofilament of middle cerebral artery occlusion technique for ischemia stroke induction in animal models
Authors: Ramli Yetty , Alwahdy Ahmad S. , Kurniawan Mohammad , Juliandi Berry , Wuyung Puspita E. , Susanto Yayi D.B.
Published: November 2017

Background: Rat is the most frequently used animal for ischemic stroke studies. Recently, middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) by introducing various types of surgical monofilament intraluminally has been widely used, with their advantages and disadvantages. For permanent occlusion, problems with mortality in rats are higher than transient. In this study, we used permanent occlusion using modified monofilament by flaming on its tip which may reduce mortality rate, so that chronic phase of stroke can be learned extensively.Methods: Three male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent permanent MCAO. The flame-blunted monofilament was introduced through common carotid artery. Hematoxylin eosin histopathology confirmation and functional assessment post-stroke induction were then evaluated.Results: Evaluation was conducted on 3 rats in different time post-stroke induction (48 hours, 72 hours, and 3 weeks). Using histopathological examination, the infarction was proved in all 3 rats showing red neurons, perivascular edema and neutrophil spongiosis, in infarct and peri-infarct area. The changes in histopathology showed spongiosis were more dominant in 3 week-post-MCAO rats. On the other hand, red neurons and perivascular edema were less compared to 48 and 72-hour-post-MCAO rats.Conclusion: Flame–blunted monofilament showed its efficacy in producing infarct area. The advantages of this technique are easy to perform with simple and less expensive modification of the monofilament. Conducting successful permanent occlusion with less mortality rate will give chances to do further research on stroke in chronic phase and its effect on novel treatment.
Risco de fadiga em ambiente térmico frio: caso de uma indústria de peixe congelado
Authors: Talaia Mário , Teixeira Leonor , Tavares Isabel
Published: November 2017

Em diferentes indústrias caraterizadas com ambientes quentes, confortáveis e/ou frios, os trabalhadores devem usar um vestuário em função da atividade desenvolvida. O ambiente térmico desempenha um papel muito importante no melhoramento das condições de trabalho, com impacto direto na produtividade do trabalhador. As caraterísticas termohigrométricas de um ambiente térmico podem afetar o bem-estar, a fadiga e a produtividade do trabalhador. Neste trabalho é avaliada uma secção de embalamento de peixe demolhado ultracongelado, considerado um ambiente térmico frio. Foram registados valores da temperatura e humidade relativa do ar, e da sensação térmica real do trabalhador, numa escala de cores. Os resultados obtidos mostram que o padrão de sensação térmica depende do tipo de embalamento, que influencia a sensação térmica dos trabalhadores.
Perfl característico y responsabilidad social empresarial del sector hotelero de la región Caribe colombiana
Authors: Peña Miranda David Daniel , Serra Cantallops Antoni , Ramón Cardona Jose
Published: November 2017

El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo identifcar el perfl característico del sector hotelero de la región Caribe colombiana y determinar su grado de conocimiento en materia de RSE. Se llevó a cabo una revisión de literatura sobre el tema y un estudio empírico con una muestra de 224 hoteles, en donde se aplicaron análisis cuantitativos estadísticos univariables. Se concluye que el perfl, confgurado a partir de 21 variables, es bastante particular de la zona y que, a pesar de que más de la mitad de los hoteles identifcan espontáneamente el concepto de la RSE (notoriedad), lo asocian con los niveles más bajos del mismo (nitidez). Se ha pretendido sensibilizar a los empresarios del sector hacia una mejor comprensión de la RSE para la adecuada implementación de acciones que contribuyan a un turismo más responsable y sostenible en la zona.
Competencias emprendedoras en Básica Primaria: Hacia una educación para el emprendimiento
Authors: Gómez Núñez Liyis , Llanos Martinez Marina , Hernández Rico Tatiana , Mejía Rodríguez Dania , Heilbron López Josef , Martín Gallego Julio , Mendoza Soto Julio , Senior Roca Diana
Published: November 2017

Este trabajo tiene como objetivo proponer orientadores pedagógicos en tor- no a la educación para el emprendimiento en básica primaria, basados en un análisis sobre su articulación en el ámbito educativo mediante programas orientados a formar este tipo de competencias. En el análisis se identifican los aspectos a tener en cuenta para desarrollar propuestas dirigidas a la construcción de competencias emprendedoras en niños y niñas de básica primaria. Los hallazgos resaltan que el emprendimiento implica la transfor- mación de ideas en acción, que van más allá de la empresarialidad. Asimis- mo, se destaca que los retos actuales apuntan a la construcción de actitudes y habilidades que fomenten la disposición a emprender, en función del abordaje de problemáticas sociales y medioambientales, en un proceso que involucra la participación de docentes, estudiantes y padres de familia, y la evaluación como componente transversal del mismo.
Modelos científicos: significado y papel en la práctica científica- Scientific models: meaning and role in scientific practice
Authors: Acevedo-Díaz José Antonio , García-Carmona Antonio , Aragón-Méndez María del Mar , Oliva-Martínez José María
Published: November 2017

El propósito de este artículo es contribuir a una mejor comprensión de los modelos científicos como uno de los componentes clave de la naturaleza de la ciencia. Para ello se aborda, en primer lugar, el significado epistemológico de los modelos científicos y su papel en la práctica científica. A continuación, se trata la función de los modelos científicos como intermediarios o mediadores entre una teoría y el mundo real, la cual está relacionada con el carácter parcialmente autónomo de los modelos respecto de ambos. Se incluyen varios ejemplos de modelos científicos para ilustrar la exposición sobre el funcionamiento de los modelos científicos. El artículo concluye con una breve referencia a las concepciones epistemológicas semanticista e instrumentalista sobre los modelos, que discurren paralelas al debate clásico entre el realismo y el pragmatismo acerca de la interpretación de las teorías científicas.
Student opinions on teaching astronomy with hands-on models
Fiziksel modellerle astronomi öğretimine ilişkin öğrenci görüşleri
Authors: Türk Cumhur , Kalkan Hüseyin
Published: November 2017

In this study, it was aimed to determine the opinions of the students on the teaching astronomy with models (TAM) by teaching the astronomy concepts in the "Solar System and Beyond" unit of the Science curriculum with hands-on models. Six different "hands-on" models have been developed in this direction. The study group of the study constitutes a total of 40 middle school seventh grade students who are studying in one of the state schools affiliated to the Ministry of National Education in Samsun province. In the study, case study method was used among qualitative research methods. The data of the study were gathered using the Teaching Astronomy with Models Assessment Form (TAMAF) and analyzed using the content analysis technique. As a result of the analysis, students stated that they think that they comprehend the subjects easier and better by using “hands-on” models and therefore make the learning permanent. Besides, the visuality of the models are liked by the students and also the lessons thought with the models are observed to be entertaining and enjoyable. Finally, it was determined that the most favourite models of students are constellations and eclipses. Based on these results, it is proposed to extend and popularize the teaching using the “hands-on” model and to support the curriculums and schools using “hands-on” models.Extended English abstract is in the end of Full Text PDF (TURKISH) file. ÖzetBu çalışmada Fen Bilimleri öğretim programında yer alan “Güneş Sistemi ve Ötesi” Ünitesi içerisindeki astronomi kavramlarının fiziksel modeller yardımıyla öğretilmesi sonucu öğrencilerin modellerle astronomi öğretimine (MAÖ) ilişkin görüşlerini belirlemek amaçlanmıştır. Bu doğrultuda altı farklı “hands-on (fiziksel model[1])” model geliştirilmiştir. Araştırmanın çalışma grubunu Samsun ilinde Millî Eğitim Bakanlığına bağlı devlet okullarından birinde öğrenim gören toplam 40 ortaokul 7. sınıf öğrencisi oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmada nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden durum çalışması (örnek olay incelemesi) yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Çalışmanın verileri Modellerle Astronomi Öğretimi Değerlendirme Formu (MAÖDF) kullanılarak elde edilmiş olup, içerik analizi tekniği kullanılarak analiz edilmiştir. Analizler sonucunda öğrenciler, fiziksel modeller sayesinde konuları daha kolay ve iyi kavradıklarını, buna bağlı olarak da kalıcı öğrenme gerçekleştirdiklerini düşündüklerini ifade etmişlerdir. Bunun yanı sıra modellerin görselliğinin öğrenciler tarafından beğenildiği, modellerle yapılan derslerin de eğlenceli ve keyifli geçtiği belirtilmiştir. Son olarak öğrencilerin en çok beğendikleri modellerin takımyıldızları ve tutulmalar modelleri oldukları saptanmıştır. Bu sonuçlardan yola çıkarak, fiziksel model kullanılarak yapılan öğretimin yaygınlaştırılması, bunun içinde öğretim programlarının ve okulların fiziksel modellerle desteklenmesi önerilmiştir.
Motor module activation sequence and topography in the spinal cord during air‐stepping in human: Insights into the traveling wave in spinal locomotor circuits
Authors: Yokoyama Hikaru , Hagio Kohtaroh , Ogawa Tetsuya , Nakazawa Kimitaka
Published: November 2017

Coordinated locomotor muscle activity is generated by the spinal central pattern generators (CPGs), which are modulated by peripheral and supraspinal inputs. The CPGs would consist of multiple motor modules generating basic muscle activity, which are distributed rostrocaudally along the spinal cord. To activate the motor modules in proper sequence, rostrocaudally traveling waves of activation in the spinal cord are important mechanisms in the CPGs. The traveling waves of activation have been observed in nonhuman vertebrates. However, they have not yet been confirmed during human locomotion. Although, rostrocaudal wave‐like activations in the spinal cord were observed during walking in humans in a previous study, the propagation shifted rostrally toward the upper lumbar segments at foot contact. Here, using an air stepping task to remove the foot‐contact interactions, we examined whether the traveling wave mechanism exists in the human spinal circuits based on the activation sequence of motor modules and their topography. We measured electromyographic activity of lower leg muscles during the air‐stepping task. Then, we extracted motor modules (i.e., basic patterns of sets of muscle activations: muscle synergies) from the measured muscle activities using nonnegative matrix factorization method. Next, we reconstructed motoneuron (MN) activity from each module activity based on myotomal charts. We identified four types of motor modules from muscle activities during the air‐stepping task. Each motor module represented different sets of synergistic muscle activations. MN clusters innervating each motor module were sequentially activated from the rostral to caudal region in the spinal cord, from the initial flexion to the last extension phase during air‐stepping. The rostrocaudally sequential activation of MN clusters suggests the possibility that rostrocaudally traveling waves exist in human locomotor spinal circuits. The present results advance the understanding of human locomotor control mechanisms, and provide important insights into the evolution of locomotor networks in vertebrates.
Validity and variability of xBRS: instantaneous cardiac baroreflex sensitivity
Authors: Wesseling Karel H. , Karemaker John M. , Castiglioni Paolo , Toader Emil , Cividjian Andrei , Settels Jos J. , Quintin Luc , Westerhof Berend E.
Published: November 2017

Spontaneous oscillations of blood pressure (BP) and interbeat interval (IBI) may reveal important information on the underlying baroreflex control and regulation of BP. We evaluated the method of continuously measured instantaneous baroreflex sensitivity by cross correlation (xBRS) validating its mean value against the gold standard of phenylephrine (Phe) and nitroprusside (SNP) bolus injections, and focusing on its spontaneous changes quantified as variability around the mean. For this purpose, we analyzed data from an earlier study of eight healthy males (aged 25–46 years) who had received Phe and SNP in conditions of baseline and autonomic blocking agents: atropine, propranolol, and clonidine. Average xBRS corresponds well to Phe/SNP‐BRS, with xBRS levels ranging from 1.2 (atropine) to 102 msec/mmHg (subject asleep under clonidine). Time shifts from BP‐ to IBI‐signal increased from ≤1 sec (maximum correlations within the current heartbeat) to 3–5 sec (under atropine). Plotted on a logarithmic vertical scale, xBRS values show 40% variability (defined as SD/mean) over the whole range in the various conditions, except twice when the subjects had fallen asleep and it dropped to 20%. The xBRS oscillates at frequencies of 0.1 Hz and lower, dominant between 0.02–0.05 Hz. Although xBRS is the result of IBI/BP‐changes, no linear coherence was found in the cross‐spectra of the xBRS‐signal and IBI or BP. We speculate that the level of variability in the xBRS‐signal may act as a probe into the central nervous condition, as evidenced in the two subjects who fell asleep with high xBRS and only 20% of relative variation.
Finite-Dimensionality and Determining Modes of the Global Attractor for 2D Boussinesq Equations with Fractional Laplacian
Authors: Huang Aimin , Huo Wenru , Jolly Michael
Published: November 2017

We prove the finite dimensionality of the global attractor and estimate the numbers of the determining modes for the 2D Boussinesq system in a periodic domain with fractional Laplacian in the subcritical case.
Questions about CLIL which are unfortunately still not outdated: A reply to Pérez-Cañado
Authors: Bruton Anthony
Published: November 2017

This response to Pérez-Cañado’s (2017) disappointing defence of CLIL interests insists on the need for a clear definition of CLIL not only so that it can be characterised for comparative purposes, but also so that the fundamentals underlying it can be scrutinised, instead of the continued hedging of bets on a moving target, justified for its contextual flexibility. As an example, whether CLIL classes are accompanied by FL classes on the curriculum or not is not a minor issue, both practically and theoretically. In addition other questions are reconsidered such as the communicative nature of CLIL, especially when it comes to whether the content is likely to be more motivating, and the supposed egalitarianism of CLIL initiatives. Finally, two research issues are discussed. Firstly, an example demonstrates how it is perfectly legitimate to critique empirical CLIL research which argues apparently beneficial results from a ‘due to’ stance by countering it with ‘despite’ arguments, while leaving much of the flawed CLIL research aside. Secondly, there is a reiterated demand that disinterested research at a curricular level confront outcomes in both the FLs and the content covered in CLIL programmes for all the state-school students affected both directly or indirectly, and in comparable terms.
Serum prolactin levels across pregnancy and the establishment of reference intervals
Authors: Hu Yun , Ding Yiling , Yang Mengyuan , Xiang Zhongyuan
Published: December 2017

Background:

Reference intervals (RIs) play key roles in clinical diagnosis, treatment and prognosis. However, RIs for clinical testing tend to be confined to the general population, and RIs for pregnant women are not very comprehensive. In this study, we establish RIs for prolactin (PRL) in healthy pregnant and postpartum women in the Chinese population.

Methods:

Healthy pregnant women (n=378) were divided into groups according to whether they were in the first, second or third trimester of pregnancy. Healthy postpartum women (n=493) were separated into four groups according to mode of delivery as follows: postvaginal (24 and 48 h) or postcesarean (24 and 48 h). Healthy, non-pregnant women (n=123) were enrolled as a control group. Serum PRL levels were measured by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay, and RIs were established for each group.

Results:

The RIs for PRL were as follows: healthy non-pregnant women, 178.89–757.52 μIU/mL; first trimester, 621.20–3584.00 μIU/mL; second trimester, 1432.00–5349.68 μIU/mL; third trimester, 4087.33–9733.65 μIU/mL; 24 and 48 h postvaginal delivery (combined), 7865.36–10998.86 μIU/mL; and 24 and 48 h postcesarean delivery, 4556.41–7675.99 and 6578.45–9980.45 μIU/mL, respectively.

Conclusions:

PRL RIs for pregnant women were established according to trimester, days postpartum and mode of delivery, thus providing a clinical reference for medical staff.
From field notebooks to automatic mapping: the ‘Atlas Lingüístico Galego’ database
Authors: Sousa Xulio
Published: November 2017

The use of computerized systems for geolinguistic data processing began in the 1970s with the production of maps for linguistic atlas projects. From that moment, dialect studies have continuously benefitted from the innovations that took place in the field of digital technologies. At present, linguistic geography projects are fully integrated within the Digital Humanities and are governed by the same principles that guide studies in this discipline: the interoperability of applications, free reuse of data and interdisciplinarity. This paper provides a brief outline of the structure and design of the database that currently houses theAtlas Lingüístico Galegomaterials, a linguistic atlas of Galician begun as a project in the 1970s. This database is being used as an information source for the publication of the project’s volumes, for research into variation and change of Galician varieties, and to contribute to the elaboration of geolinguistic projects that are greater in scope.
Four low central vowels in Eastern Andalusian Spanish: /a/ before underlying /-s/, /-r/, and /-θ/ in El Ejido
Authors: Herrero de Haro Alfredo
Published: November 2017

Coda-final consonant deletion has been extensively documented in Eastern Andalusian Spanish; however, its effects on neighbouring segments is still unknown. Scholars working on consonant deletion in Eastern Andalusian Spanish have mainly focused on /s/, given the semantic importance of this consonant in Spanish. As a result, other consonants which are often deleted syllable-finally in this geolect have been studied to a much lesser degree. The present paper aims to expand the traditional view on vowel doubling by analysing /-s/, /-r/, and /-Ɵ/ deletion before /a/. Firstly, the speech of 24 speakers from El Ejido (Eastern Andalusia) is analysed to ascertain how the deletion of word final /s/, /r/, and /Ɵ/ changes the quality of a preceding /a/. Secondly, a perception test is carried out with native speakers from the local area to confirm whether these speakers can differentiate perceptually between word-final /a/ and /a/ preceding underlying /-s/, /-r/, or /-Ɵ/. This paper presents two main conclusions: 1) /-s/, /-r/, and /-Ɵ/ deletion changes the quality of a preceding /a/ to different degrees; 2) EAS speakers can identify whether /a/ is followed or not by an underlying /-s/, /-r/, or /-Ɵ/, but they cannot identify which consonant has been deleted in each case.
Improvement of beech wood properties by in situ formation of polyesters of citric and tartaric acid in combination with glycerol
Authors: L’Hostis Clément , Thévenon Marie-France , Fredon Emmanuel , Gérardin Philippe
Published: December 2017

Beech wood has been treated by impregnation followed by heating at various temperatures with solutions containing citric acid (CA) or tartaric acid (TA) alone or in combination with glycerol (G), i.e. with G+CA and G+TA. The resulting modified woods were tested in terms of resistance to leaching, durability and dimensional stability. These properties are improved as a function of heating temperature, which leads to higher levels of poly-esterification involving grafting onto wood simultaneously with thermal degradation of wood. Dimensional stability of all treated wood was increased, but glycerol does not have a positive effect with this regard. Attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy contributed to understanding the effects of the different treatments. In situ polymerization of G+TA at 140°C increased the bending resistance, while G+CA polymerization does not compensate notably the mechanical weakness induced by thermal degradation of wood at higher temperatures. However, G+CA treatment is more efficient regarding leaching and decay resistance, than that with G+TA.
Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism increase plasma irisin levels in rats
Authors: Atici Emine , Mogulkoc Rasim , Baltaci Abdulkerim Kasim , Menevse Esma
Published: November 2017

Background

A recently discovered hormone, irisin is accepted to be significantly involved in the regulation of body weight. Thyroid functions may be, directly or indirectly, associated with irisin.

Aim

The aim of the present study is to determine the effect of experimental thyroid dysfunction on irisin levels in rats.

Methods

The study registered 40 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, which were allocated to groups as follows: 1. Control; 2. Hypothyroidism induced by injection of 10 mg/kg/day intraperitoneal propylthiouracil (PTU) for 3 weeks; 3. Hypothyroidism (PTU 2 weeks) + L-thyroxin (1.5 mg/kg/day for 1 week); 4. Hyperthyroidism induced in rats by 3-week thyroxin (0.3 mg/kg/day); 5. Hyperthyroidism + PTU. At the end of the study, blood samples were collected to quantify free triiodothyronine (FT3), free triiodothyronine (FT4) and irisin levels.

Results

FT3 and FT4 levels were reduced in hypothyroidism and were significantly elevated in hyperthyroidism (p < 0.001). Irisin values, on the other hand, were found to be elevated in both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism groups (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results of the study suggest that irisin values increase in thyroid dysfunction, hypo- and hyperthyroidism, and that when hypothyroidism is corrected by thyroxin administration and hyperthyroidism by PTU injection, plasma irisin values go back to normal.
Access Selection Algorithm of Heterogeneous Wireless Networks for Smart Distribution Grid Based on Entropy-Weight and Rough Set
Authors: Xiang Min , Qu Qinqin , Chen Cheng , Tian Li , Zeng Lingkang
Published: November 2017

To improve the reliability of communication service in smart distribution grid (SDG), an access selection algorithm based on dynamic network status and different service types for heterogeneous wireless networks was proposed. The network performance index values were obtained in real time by multimode terminal and the variation trend of index values was analyzed by the growth matrix. The index weights were calculated by entropy-weight and then modified by rough set to get the final weights. Combining the grey relational analysis to sort the candidate networks, and the optimum communication network is selected. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can implement dynamically access selection in heterogeneous wireless networks of SDG effectively and reduce the network blocking probability.
„Ich dachte mir, das ist nicht der Weg, den ich gehen will!” – Gründe für Langzeitmobilität europäischer InformationswissenschaftlerInnen
Authors: Hillebrand Vera
Published: November 2017

Zweck dieser Studie ist, herauszufinden, welche Push- und Pull-Faktoren es für degree und post-diploma mobility in der europäischen Informationswissenschaft gibt. Die Autorin führte 16 Interviews mit InformationswissenschaftlerInnen über ihr Mobilitätsverhalten. Die Untersuchung zeigt, dass es sich nicht nur um berufliche Gründe handelt, die ForscherInnen mobil werden lassen. Persönliche Gründe, wie Partnerschaft, oder finanzielle Gründe, wie eine bezahlte Promotionsstelle, fördern Langzeitmobilität. Kinder bzw. Familie konnten als einziger Grund für Immobilität in dieser Studie festgestellt werden. Die Ergebnisse stellen in Frage, ob ein brain drain einzig anhand von Statistiken analysiert werden kann. Diese Studie zählt zu den wenigen qualitativen Datenerhebungen über Langzeitmobilität.
Sleep onset insomnia, daytime sleepiness and sleep duration in relationship toToxoplasma gondiiIgG seropositivity and serointensity
Authors: Ahmad Zaki , Moustafa Yara W. , Stiller John W. , Pavlovich Mary A. , Raheja Uttam K. , Gragnoli Claudia , Snitker Soren , Nazem Sarra , Dagdag Aline , Fang Beverly , Fuchs Dietmar , Lowry Christopher A. , Postolache Teodor T.
Published: November 2017

Toxoplasma gondii(T. gondii) infects central nervous tissue and is kept in relative dormancy by a healthy immune system. Sleep disturbances have been found to precipitate mental illness, suicidal behavior and car accidents, which have been previously linked toT. gondii as well.We speculated that if sleep disruption, particularly insomnia, would mediate, at least partly, the link betweenT. gondiiinfection and related behavioral dysregulation, then we would be able to identify significant associations between sleep disruption andT. gondii. The mechanisms for such an association may involve dopamine (DA) production byT. gondii, or collateral effects of immune activation necessary to keepT. gondiiin check. Sleep questionnaires from 2031 Old Order Amish were analyzed in relationship toT. gondii-IgG antibodies measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).Toxoplasma gondiiseropositivity and serointensity were not associated with any of the sleep latency variables or Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). A secondary analysis identified, after adjustment for age group, a statistical trend toward shorter sleep duration in seropositive men (p=0.07). In conclusion, it is unlikely that sleep disruption mediates links betweenT. gondiiand mental illness or behavioral dysregulation. Trending gender differences in associations betweenT. gondiiand shorter sleep need further investigation.
Concentrations of neopterin, kynurenine and tryptophan in wound secretions of patients with breast cancer and malignant melanoma: a pilot study
Authors: Mergancová Jana , Javorská Lenka , Šiller Jiří , Sákra Lukáš , Mergancová Jindřiška , Solichová Dagmar , Krčmová Lenka Kujovská , Melichar Bohuslav , Mohelníková-Duchoňová Beatrice , Študentová Hana , Klos Dušan
Published: November 2017

The aim of the present pilot study was to investigate the concentrations of neopterin, kynurenine and tryptophan in wound secretion in patients undergoing surgery for breast cancer or malignant melanoma. Twenty-two patients, 16 females and 6 males, undergoing surgery for breast cancer (n=15) or malignant melanoma (n=7) were evaluated. Neopterin, kynurenine and tryptophan were determined using a high-performance liquid chromatography method. When the concentrations in wound secretions from the primary breast tumor and the axilla were compared, the neopterin/tryptophan ratio was significantly higher in the tumor wound secretions (0.92±0.41 vs. 0.61±0.14 mmol/mol; p=0.049), but no significant differences were observed in neopterin (49.2±28.6 vs. 31.5±11.1 nmol/L), tryptophan (52.9±13.0 vs. 51.2±13.3 μmol/L) and kynurenine concentrations (5.97±7.49 vs. 5.34±6.25 μmol/L) and kynurenine/tryptophan ratio (108.1±107.7 vs. 103.5±106.7 mmol/mol). No marked differences were noted in neopterin, tryptophan and kynurenine concentrations and kynurenine/tryptophan and neopterin/tryptophan ratios in sequential samples from the axilla of breast cancer patients obtained on days 1 and 2. In conclusion, present data demonstrate that the measurement of neopterin, kynurenine and tryptophan can be used to monitor local immune response after cancer surgery.
The relationship between chondromalacia patella, medial meniscal tear and medial periarticular bursitis in patients with osteoarthritis
Authors: Resorlu Mustafa , Doner Davut , Karatag Ozan , Toprak Canan Akgun
Published: November 2017

Background

This study investigated the presence of bursitis in the medial compartment of the knee (pes anserine, semimembranosus-tibial collateral ligament, and medial collateral ligament bursa) in osteoarthritis, chondromalacia patella and medial meniscal tears.

Patients and methods

Radiological findings of 100 patients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging with a preliminary diagnosis of knee pain were retrospectively evaluated by two radiologists. The first radiologist assessed all patients in terms of osteoarthritis, chondromalacia patella and medial meniscal tear. The second radiologist was blinded to these results and assessed the presence of bursitis in all patients.

Results

Mild osteoarthritis (grade I and II) was determined in 55 patients and severe osteoarthritis (grade III and IV) in 45 cases. At retropatellar cartilage evaluation, 25 patients were assessed as normal, while 29 patients were diagnosed with mild chondromalacia patella (grade I and II) and 46 with severe chondromalacia patella (grade III and IV). Medial meniscus tear was determined in 51 patients. Severe osteoarthritis and chondromalacia patella were positively correlated with meniscal tear (p < 0.001 and p = 0.018, respectively). Significant correlation was observed between medial meniscal tear and bursitis in the medial compartment (p = 0.038). Presence of medial periarticular bursitis was positively correlated with severity of osteoarthritis but exhibited no correlation with chondromalacia patella (p = 0.023 and p = 0.479, respectively). Evaluation of lateral compartment bursae revealed lateral collateral ligament bursitis in 2 patients and iliotibial bursitis in 5 patients.

Conclusions

We observed a greater prevalence of bursitis in the medial compartment of the knee in patients with severe osteoarthritis and medial meniscus tear.
Mothering under the influence: how perinatal drugs of abuse alter the mother-infant interaction
Authors: Brancato Anna , Cannizzaro Carla
Published: December 2017

Although drug-abusing women try to moderate their drug and alcohol use during pregnancy, they often relapse at a time when childcare needs are high and maternal bonding is critical to an infant’s development. In the clinical setting, the search for the neural basis of drug-induced caregiving deficits is complex due to several intervening variables. Rather, the preclinical studies that control for drug dose and regimen, as well as for gestational and postpartum environment, allow a precise determination of the effects of drugs on maternal behaviour. Given the relevance of the issue, this review will gather reports on the phenotypic correlates of maternal behaviour in preclinical studies, and focus on the detrimental consequences on the mother-infant interaction exerted by the perinatal use of alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, cocaine and stimulants and opiates. The drug-induced disruptions of this maternal repertoire are associated with adverse maternal and infant outcomes. A comprehensive overview will help promote the refinement of the treatment approaches toward maternal drug use disorders and maternal misbehaviour, in favour of augmented parenting resiliency.
Surface modification on dispersion and enhancement of PVA fibers in fiber-reinforced cementitious composites
Authors: Shui-dong Lin , Li Li
Published: December 2017

In this paper, non-ionic polyoxyethylene ether was used to modify the surface of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) fibers and to improve their dispersion in cement mortar. The results showed that surface modification could apparently improve the dispersion of PVA fibers in cement mortar by weakening the original intermolecular hydrogen bonds between the adjacent hydroxyl groups on the surface of PVA fibers and increasing the formation of hydrogen bonds between PVA fibers and cement mortar. After modification, the advancing contact angle and the receding contact angle of the fibers were respectively reduced from 44.2° to 34.7° and from 38.8° to 33.1°, and the dispersion coefficient of the fibers was increased from 0.85 to 0.95. Owing to the improved interactions between modified PVA fibers and cement mortar and to the good dispersion of the fibers in the matrix, the fibers had a superior energy absorption capacity and showed a ductile fracture, leading to higher flexural strength, bending modulus and toughness of fiber-reinforced cementitious composites.
Restrained shrinkage cracking of self-consolidating concrete roads
Authors: Akgungor Ali Payidar , Sevim Ozer , Kalkan Ilker , Demir Ilhami
Published: November 2017

The present study is dedicated to investigate the liability of continuously reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP) cast with self-consolidating concrete (SCC) to restrained shrinkage cracking and the values of restraint stresses in these pavements. SCC, which is becoming increasingly popular due to its several superiorities over conventionally vibrated concrete (CVC), has higher amounts and rates of shrinkage compared to CVC. The higher risk of restrained shrinkage cracking of SCC is a great cause of concern in pavement construction as the penetration of water, chemicals, and salts increases the risk of corrosion of reinforcement. In the present study, an analytical restraint stress expression was developed for typical CRC pavements by modifying the restraint stress equation developed previously for RC beams. Using this equation, the restraint stresses induced to the longitudinal reinforcement by the rigid pavement, cast with CVC or SCC, were calculated for eight different example sections. These restraint stress values were found to reach up to 50% of the limit stresses of bars, allowed by the design guidelines, when the pavement is cast with SCC. The amounts of longitudinal reinforcement used in typical CRCP roads were found to be more critical when the pavement is cast with SCC.
Synthesis and antimicrobial activities of some novel thiazole compounds
Authors: Turan-Zitouni Gülhan , Kaya Çavuşoğlu Betül , Sağlık Begüm Nurpelin , Acar Çevik Ulviye
Published: November 2017

Objective

The advent of resistant pathogenic microorganisms against current antimicrobial drugs prompted scientists to investigate novel molecules with new mechanisms. In this paper, some new 2-[2-[4-(ethyl/phenyl)cyclohexylidene]hydrazinyl]-4-(4-substitutedphenyl)thiazole (2a–2o) derivatives were synthesized and studied for their antimicrobial activities.

Materials and methods

The title compounds (2a–2o) were obtained via the reaction of 4-(ethyl/phenyl)cyclohexane-1-one with appropriate phenacyl bromide in ethanol at room temperature. The chemical structures of the compounds were elucidated by FT-IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, HRMS and elemental analysis. Antimicrobial activity of the compounds was measured by using broth microdilution method. Chloramphenicol and ketoconazole were used as reference drugs.

Results

Among the synthesized compounds, 2-[2-(4-phenylcyclohexylidene)hydrazinyl]-4-phenylthiazole (2h) and 2-[2-(4-phenylcyclohexylidene)hydrazinyl]-4-(4-chlorophenyl)thiazole (2l) have been found to exhibit potency almost four-fold better than ketoconazole against C. albicans with MIC90 value of 1.95.

Conclusion

The current study contributed to the knowledge of the antimicrobial activity of thiazole bearing compounds.
Examining the Influence of Exercise Intensity and Hydration on Gastrointestinal Temperature in Collegiate Football Players
Authors: DeMartini-Nolan Julie K. , Martschinske Jessica L. , Casa Douglas J. , Lopez Rebecca M. , Stearns Rebecca L. , Ganio Matthew S. , Coris Eric
Published: November 2017

DeMartini-Nolan, JK, Martschinske, JL, Casa, DJ, Lopez, RM, Stearns, RL, Ganio, MS, and Coris, E. Examining the influence of exercise intensity and hydration on gastrointestinal temperature in collegiate football players. J Strength Cond Res 32(10): 2888–2896, 2018—Debate exists regarding the influence of intensity and hydration on body temperature during American football. The purpose of this study was to observe body core temperature responses with changes in intensity and hydration. Twenty-nine male football players (age = 21 ± 1 year, height = 187 ± 9 cm, mass = 110.1 ± 23.5 kg, body mass index [BMI] = 31.3 ± 5.0, and body surface area [BSA] = 2.34 ± 0.27 m2) participated in 8 days of practice in a warm environment (wet bulb globe temperature: 29.6 ± 1.6° C). Participants were identified as starters (S; n = 12) or nonstarters (n = 17) and linemen (L; n = 14) or nonlinemen (NL; n = 15). Variables of interest included core body temperature (T), hydration status, and physical performance characteristics as measured by a global positioning system. Intensity measures of average heart rate (138 ± 9 bpm), low-velocity movement (4.2 ± 1.7%), high-velocity movement (0.6 ± 0.6%), and average velocity (0.36 ± 0.10 m·s−1) accounted for 42% of the variability observed in T (38.32 ± 0.34° C, r = 0.65, p = 0.01). Hydration measures (percent body mass loss = −1.56 ± 0.80%, urine specific gravity [Usg] = 1.025 ± 0.006, and urine color [Ucol] = 6 ± 1) did not add to the prediction of T (p = 0.83). Metrics of exercise intensity accounted for 39% of the variability observed in maximum T (38.83 ± 0.42° C, r = 0.62, p = 0.02). Hydration measures did not add to this prediction (p = 0.40). Low-velocity movement, high-velocity movement, average velocity, BMI, and BSA were significantly different (p = 0.002, p < 0.001, p = 0.02, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively) between L vs. NL. Heart rate and T were not different between L and NL (p > 0.05). Exercise intensity primarily accounted for the rise in core body temperature. Although L spent less time at higher velocities, T was similar to NL, suggesting that differences in BMI and BSA added to thermoregulatory strain.
Motor Skills of Children and Adolescents With Obesity and Severe Obesity—A CIRCUIT Study
Authors: Häcker Anna-Luisa , Bigras Jean-Luc , Henderson Mélanie , Barnett Tracie A. , Mathieu Marie-Eve
Published: November 2017

Häcker, A-L, Bigras, J-L, Henderson, M, Barnett, TA, and Mathieu, M-E. Motor skills of children and adolescents with obesity and severe obesity—a CIRCUIT study. J Strength Cond Res 34(12): 3577–3586, 2020—During childhood, excessive weight is negatively associated with the development of motor skills, with overweight children or children with obesity having poorer motor skills compared with children with normal weight. The objectives of the current study are to identify the differences in motor skills between children and adolescents with obesity and severe obesity and the extent of this difference. To do so, we examined cross-sectionally 165 subjects. Physical fitness was analyzed in both subjects with obesity (>97th to 99.9th body mass index [BMI] percentile) and severe obesity (>99.9th BMI percentile) using 8 standardized tests: sit-and-reach, grip force, sit-ups, push-ups, balance, hand-eye coordination, standing long jump and 5-m shuttle run. Poorer performance were observed in subjects with severe obesity in sit-ups (children: 59%; 18.6 ± 17.0 vs. 29.5 ± 23.2 percentile value, p = 0.008), balance (adolescent: 59%; 12.1 ± 12.2 vs. 19.3 ± 13.9 seconds, p = 0.034), and in the 5-m shuttle run (children: 49%; 14.0 ± 13.9 vs. 20.8 ± 19.4 percentile value, p = 0.046; adolescents: 11%; 13.2 ± 2.2 vs. 11.8 ± 1.6 seconds, p = 0.008) compared with obese counterparts. In conclusion, although physical performance was found to be similar between the different obesity levels for most tests, youth with severe obesity demonstrated impairments ranging from 11 to 59% in specific tests.
Reliability and Validity of a Submaximal Warm-up Test for Monitoring Training Status in Professional Soccer Players
Authors: Rabbani Alireza , Kargarfard Mehdi , Twist Craig
Published: November 2017

Rabbani, A, Kargarfard, M, and Twist, C. Reliability and validity of a submaximal warm-up test for monitoring training status in professional soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 32(2): 326–333, 2018—Two studies were conducted to assess the reliability and validity of a submaximal warm-up test (SWT) in professional soccer players. For the reliability study, 12 male players performed an SWT over 3 trials, with 1 week between trials. For the validity study, 14 players of the same team performed an SWT and a 30-15 intermittent fitness test (30-15IFT) 7 days apart. Week-to-week reliability in selected heart rate (HR) responses (exercise heart rate [HRex], heart rate recovery [HRR] expressed as the number of beats recovered within 1 minute [HRR60s], and HRR expressed as the mean HR during 1 minute [HRpost1]) was determined using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and typical error of measurement expressed as coefficient of variation (CV). The relationships between HR measures derived from the SWT and the maximal speed reached at the 30-15IFT (VIFT) were used to assess validity. The range for ICC and CV values was 0.83–0.95 and 1.4–7.0% in all HR measures, respectively, with the HRex as the most reliable HR measure of the SWT. Inverse large (r = −0.50 and 90% confidence limits [CLs] [−0.78 to −0.06]) and very large (r = −0.76 and CL, −0.90 to −0.45) relationships were observed between HRex and HRpost1 with VIFT in relative (expressed as the % of maximal HR) measures, respectively. The SWT is a reliable and valid submaximal test to monitor high-intensity intermittent running fitness in professional soccer players. In addition, the test's short duration (5 minutes) and simplicity mean that it can be used regularly to assess training status in high-level soccer players.
Functional Layer Designation of Combined Chip Seal and Slurry Seal in Airport Pavement
Authors: Yuan Jie , Xu Siyuan , Hou Xiangdao , Xiao Feipeng , Jiang Changshan , Luo Yong
Published: December 2017

With the increasing attention to preventive maintenance and rehabilitation of asphalt pavement, asphalt emulsions have gained popularity. Synchronous chip seal (SCS) and slurry seal (SS) are widely used in pavement preservation due to their low cost and efficiency but are not prevalent in new pavement construction, especially for airport pavement. The objective of this study was to characterize the asphalt emulsions and functional layers of combined chip seal and SS through conventional test methods for asphalt emulsions, asphalt binders, and chip and slurry seals, including setting time, residual amount on sieve of 16 mesh, Engler viscosity, standard viscosity, residue content, penetration, ductility, failure temperature, wet track abrasion test, and load wheel test. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was also conducted to explore the energy differences amongst various emulsions. In addition, trial pavements were also tested in the laboratory and field to evaluate the waterproof performances of the functional layers. The results of material tests showed that SS-1 and SCS-2 were optimum emulsions. The laboratory waterproof test on trial pavement met the requirement of standards and the trial airport pavement emphasized the importance of compaction during construction.
Worlds Conflicting
Authors: Vienne Florence
Published: November 2017

François-Vincent Raspail (1794–1878) and Theodor Schwann (1810–1882) postulated—in 1827 and 1838, respectively—that plants and animals consist of, and originate from, cells. Whereas Raspail is mainly remembered for his involvement in the revolutions of 1830 and 1848, little is known about his scientific work. Schwann, by contrast, is regarded as one of the founders of cell theory, but historians of biology have hardly taken his philosophical, religious, and political ideas into account. Paying particular attention to Schwann’s unpublished writings, this paper reconstructs the research agendas of Raspail and Schwann, and contrasts the philosophical and political beliefs and incentives behind them. Whereas Raspail was a proponent of republicanism and materialism, Schwann opposed the modernist agenda of explaining nature and humankind without God, as well a democratic reshaping of society. Contrary to the prevailing historical narrative, this paper argues that cell theory did not emerge exclusively in conjunction with the rise of liberalism and materialism. Rather, the idea of a unifying principle of organic development encompassed different and even antagonistic visions of nature, humankind, society, and the role of religion in science.

This essay is part of a special issue entitled REVOLUTIONARY POLITICS AND BIOLOGICAL ORGANIZATION IN NINETEENTH-CENTURY FRANCE AND GERMANY edited by Lynn K. Nyhart and Florence Vienne.
Biological and Social New Orders
Authors: Thomas Marion
Published: November 2017

In this paper, I examine the intertwined science, politics, and religion of a major figure of nineteenth-century French biology, the Parisian professor of histology Charles Robin (1821–1885). Historiography generally associates his name with France’s rejection of the cell theory formulated by Schwann and then Virchow in the 1830s–1850s. One of the main factors put forward is the influence of Comtean positivism. Here, I propose to go beyond this historiography and discuss not only convergences but also divergences between Robin’s and Comte’s visions of the organism and society. Moreover, I analyze Robin’s research agenda in light of the political ideas he defended as a republican in the context of the emergence of the Third Republic. At first sight, Robin’s political activity (marked by his late tenure as senator) may initially appear disconnected from his scientific agenda. However, I argue that Robin’s approaches to different areas of knowledge (biology, sociology, politics, and metaphysics) were mutually supportive and lent one another authority, especially through the parallel structure and shared vocabulary of their discourses. Ultimately, I demonstrate that Robin’s biological materialism, combined with his outspoken anticlericalism, constitutes a political stance, and show how the concept of “solidarity” helped him to cast a new light on the relations between the parts and the whole, both in biology and social policy.

This essay is part of a special issue entitled REVOLUTIONARY POLITICS AND BIOLOGICAL ORGANIZATION IN NINETEENTH-CENTURY FRANCE AND GERMANY edited by Lynn K. Nyhart and Florence Vienne.
El trabajo de la memoria en Centroamérica: Cinco propuestas heurísticas en torno a las guerras en El Salvador, Guatemala y Nicaragua
Authors: Sprenkels Ralph
Published: November 2017

Este artículo presenta una exploración comparativa del trabajo de la memoria en torno a las guerras de la segunda mitad del siglo XX en tres países centroamericanos: El Salvador, Guatemala y Nicaragua. Identifca cinco diferentes propuestas heurísticas para explicar las guerras (incluyendo sus principales causas y secuelas), que se utilizan, en mayor o menor medida, en cada país: el olvido impuesto, la guerra fraternicida, la revolución, el anticomunismo, y el desengaño. Vinculados con sectores políticos e históricos determinados, estas propuestas heurísticas cuentan con niveles de incidencia diferenciados en cada país. Su estudio permite visualizar la arena política del trabajo de la memoria en cada país, a la vez que permite analizar similitudes y diferencias entre los tres países. Enfocando el trabajo de la memoria como proceso político contencioso y relativamente fragmentado, el presente artículo contribuye a dimensionar los impactos del trabajo de la memoria en torno a las pasadas guerras en las sociedades centroamericanas en cuestión.