bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of heavy ions (He2+, H+) radiolytic yield of molecular hydrogen vs. “Track-Segment” LET values
Authors: Crumière Francis , Vandenborre Johan , Blain Guillaume , Haddad Ferid , Fattahi Massoud
Published: January 2017

Ionizing radiation’s effects onto water molecules lead to the ionization and/or the excitation of them. Then, these phenomena are followed by the formation of radicals and molecular products. The linear energy transfer (LET), which defines the energy deposition density along the radiation length, is different according to the nature of ionizing particles. Thus, the values of radiolytic yields, defined as the number of radical and molecular products formed or consumed by unit of deposited energy, evolve according to this parameter. This work consists in following the evolution of radiolytic yield of molecular hydrogen and ferric ions according to the “Track-Segment” LET of ionizing particles (protons, helions). Concerning G(Fe3+) values, it seems that the energy deposited into the Bragg peak does not play the main role for the Fe3+ radiolytic formation, whereas for the G(H2) it is the case with a component around 40% of the Bragg peak in the dihydrogen production. Therefore, as main results of this work, for high energetic Helion and Proton beams, the G(Fe3+) values, which can be used for further dosimetry studies for example during the α radiolysis experiments, and the primary g(H2) values for the Track-Segment LET, which can be used to determine the dihydrogen production by α-emitters, are published.
Alexithymia and automatic processing of emotional stimuli: a systematic review
Authors: Donges Uta-Susan , Suslow Thomas
Published: January 2017

Alexithymia is a personality trait characterized by difficulties in recognizing and verbalizing emotions and the utilization of a cognitive style that is oriented toward external events, rather than intrapsychic experiences. Alexithymia is considered a vulnerability factor influencing onset and course of many psychiatric disorders. Even though emotions are, in general, elicited involuntarily and emerge without conscious effort, it is surprising that little attention in etiological considerations concerning alexithymia has been given to deficits in automatic emotion processing and their neurobiological bases. In this article, results from studies using behavioral or neurobiological research methods were systematically reviewed in which automatic processing of external emotional information was investigated as a function of alexithymia in healthy individuals. Twenty-two studies were identified through a literature search of Psycinfo, PubMed, and Web of Science databases from 1990 to 2016. The review reveals deficits in the automatic processing of emotional stimuli in alexithymia at a behavioral and neurobiological level. The vast majority of the reviewed studies examined visual processing. The alexithymia facets externally oriented thinking and difficulties identifying feelings were found to be related to impairments in the automatic processing of threat-related facial expressions. Alexithymic individuals manifest low reactivity to barely visible negative emotional stimuli in brain regions responsible for appraisal, encoding, and affective response, e.g. amygdala, occipitotemporal areas, and insula. Against this background, it appears plausible to assume that deficits in automatic emotion processing could be factors contributing to alexithymic personality characteristics. Directions for future research on alexithymia and automatic emotion perception are suggested.
Quantitative EEG in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: a review of the literature
Authors: Puskás Szilvia , Kozák Norbert , Sulina Dóra , Csiba László , Magyar Mária Tünde
Published: January 2017

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is characterized by the recurrent cessation (apnea) or reduction (hypopnea) of airflow due to the partial or complete upper airway collapse during sleep. Respiratory disturbances causing sleep fragmentation and repetitive nocturnal hypoxia are responsible for a variety of nocturnal and daytime complaints of sleep apnea patients, such as snoring, daytime sleepiness, fatigue, or impaired cognitive functions. Different techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and positron emission tomography, are used to evaluate the structural and functional changes in OSAS patients. With quantitative electroencephalographic (qEEG) analysis, the possible existence of alterations in the brain electrical activity of OSAS patients can be investigated. We review the articles on qEEG results of sleep apnea patients and summarize the possible explanations of these qEEG measures. Finally, we review the impact of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment on these alterations to assess whether CPAP use can eliminate alterations in the brain activity of OSAS patients.
Aircraft Engine Thrust Estimator Design Based on GSA-LSSVM
Authors: Sheng Hanlin , Zhang Tianhong
Published: January 2017

In view of the necessity of highly precise and reliable thrust estimator to achieve direct thrust control of aircraft engine, based on support vector regression (SVR), as well as least square support vector machine (LSSVM) and a new optimization algorithm – gravitational search algorithm (GSA), by performing integrated modelling and parameter optimization, a GSA-LSSVM-based thrust estimator design solution is proposed. The results show that compared to particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm, GSA can find unknown optimization parameter better and enables the model developed with better prediction and generalization ability. The model can better predict aircraft engine thrust and thus fulfills the need of direct thrust control of aircraft engine.
Acute Effects of Stretching on Leg and Vertical Stiffness During Treadmill Running
Authors: Pappas Panagiotis T. , Paradisis Giorgos P. , Exell Timothy A. , Smirniotou Athanasia S. , Tsolakis Charilaos K. , Arampatzis Adamantios
Published: January 2017

Pappas, PT, Paradisis, GP, Exell, TA, Smirniotou, AS, Tsolakis, CK, and Arampatzis, A. Acute effects of stretching on leg and vertical stiffness during treadmill running. J Strength Cond Res 31(12): 3417–3424, 2017—The implementation of static (SS) and dynamic (DS) stretching during warm-up routines produces significant changes in biological and functional properties of the human musculoskeletal system. These properties could affect the leg and vertical stiffness characteristics that are considered important factors for the success of athletic activities. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of SS and DS on selected kinematic variables, and leg and vertical stiffness during treadmill running. Fourteen men (age: 22.58 ± 1.05 years, height: 1.77 ± 0.05 m, body mass: 72.74 ± 10.04 kg) performed 30-second running bouts at 4.44 m·s−1, under 3 different stretching conditions (SS, DS, and no stretching). The total duration in each stretching condition was 6 minutes, and each of the 4 muscle groups was stretched for 40 seconds. Leg and vertical stiffness values were calculated using the “sine wave” method, with no significant differences in stiffness found between stretching conditions. After DS, vertical ground reaction force increased by 1.7% (p < 0.05), which resulted in significant (p < 0.05) increases in flight time (5.8%), step length (2.2%), and vertical displacement of the center of mass (4.5%) and a decrease in step rate (2.2%). Practical durations of SS and DS stretching did not influence leg or vertical stiffness during treadmill running. However, DS seems to result in a small increase in lower-limb force production which may influence running mechanics.
Does the Superior Colliculus Control Perceptual Sensitivity or Choice Bias during Attention? Evidence from a Multialternative Decision Framework
Authors: Sridharan Devarajan , Steinmetz Nicholas A. , Moore Tirin , Knudsen Eric I.
Published: January 2017

Distinct networks in the forebrain and the midbrain coordinate to control spatial attention. The critical involvement of the superior colliculus (SC)—the central structure in the midbrain network—in visuospatial attention has been shown by four seminal, published studies in monkeys (Macaca mulatta) performing multialternative tasks. However, due to the lack of a mechanistic framework for interpreting behavioral data in such tasks, the nature of the SC's contribution to attention remains unclear. Here we present and validate a novel decision framework for analyzing behavioral data in multialternative attention tasks. We apply this framework to re-examine the behavioral evidence from these published studies. Our model is a multidimensional extension to signal detection theory that distinguishes between two major classes of attentional mechanisms: those that alter the quality of sensory information or “sensitivity,” and those that alter the selective gating of sensory information or “choice bias.” Model-based simulations and model-based analyses of data from these published studies revealed a converging pattern of results that indicated that choice-bias changes, rather than sensitivity changes, were the primary outcome of SC manipulation. Our results suggest that the SC contributes to attentional performance predominantly by generating a spatial choice bias for stimuli at a selected location, and that this bias operates downstream of forebrain mechanisms that enhance sensitivity. The findings lead to a testable mechanistic framework of how the midbrain and forebrain networks interact to control spatial attention.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTAttention involves the selection of the most relevant information for differential sensory processing and decision making. While the mechanisms by which attention alters sensory encoding (sensitivity control) are well studied, the mechanisms by which attention alters decisional weighting of sensory evidence (choice-bias control) are poorly understood. Here, we introduce a model of multialternative decision making that distinguishes bias from sensitivity effects in attention tasks. With our model, we simulate experimental data from four seminal studies that microstimulated or inactivated a key attention-related midbrain structure, the superior colliculus (SC). We demonstrate that the experimental effects of SC manipulation are entirely consistent with the SC controlling attention by changing choice bias, thereby shedding new light on how the brain mediates attention.
Nutrient sensing and TOR signaling in yeast and mammals
Authors: González Asier , Hall Michael N
Published: January 2017

Coordinating cell growth with nutrient availability is critical for cell survival. The evolutionarily conserved TOR (target of rapamycin) controls cell growth in response to nutrients, in particular amino acids. As a central controller of cell growth, mTOR (mammalian TOR) is implicated in several disorders, including cancer, obesity, and diabetes. Here, we review how nutrient availability is sensed and transduced to TOR in budding yeast and mammals. A better understanding of how nutrient availability is transduced to TOR may allow novel strategies in the treatment for mTOR‐related diseases.
Regulation of aldosterone secretion by mineralocorticoid receptor–mediated signaling
Authors: Chong Cherish , Hamid Anis , Yao Tham , Garza Amanda E , Pojoga Luminita H , Adler Gail K , Romero Jose R , Williams Gordon H
Published: January 2017

We posit the existence of a paracrine/autocrine negative feedback loop, mediated by the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), regulating aldosterone secretion. To assess this hypothesis, we asked whether altering MR activity in zona glomerulosa (ZG) cells affects aldosterone production. To this end, we studiedex vivoZG cells isolated from male Wistar rats fed chow containing either high (1.6% Na+(HS)) or low (0.03% Na+(LS)) amount of sodium. Western blot analyses demonstrated that MR was present in both the ZG and zona fasciculata/zona reticularis (ZF/ZR/ZR). In ZG cells isolated from rats on LS chow, MR activation by fludrocortisone produced a 20% and 60% reduction in aldosterone secretion basally and in response to angiotensin II (ANGII) stimulation, respectively. Corticosterone secretion was increased in these cells suggesting that aldosterone synthase activity was being reduced by fludrocortisone. In contrast, canrenoic acid, an MR antagonist, enhanced aldosterone production by up to 30% both basally and in response to ANGII. Similar responses were observed in ZG cells from rats fed HS. Modulating glucocorticoid receptor (GR) activity did not alter aldosterone production by ZG cells; however, altering GR activity did modify corticosterone production from ZF/ZR/ZR cells both basally and in response to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Additionally, activating the MR in ZF/ZR/ZR cells strikingly reduced corticosterone secretion. In summary, these data support the hypothesis that negative ultra-short feedback loops regulate adrenal steroidogenesis. In the ZG, aldosterone secretion is regulated by the MR, but not the GR, an effect that appears to be secondary to a change in aldosterone synthase activity.
Angiotensin II induces differential insulin action in rat skeletal muscle
Authors: Surapongchai Juthamard , Prasannarong Mujalin , Bupha-Intr Tepmanas , Saengsirisuwan Vitoon
Published: January 2017

Angiotensin II (ANGII) is reportedly involved in the development of skeletal muscle insulin resistance. The present investigation evaluated the effects of two ANGII doses on the phenotypic characteristics of insulin resistance syndrome and insulin action and signaling in rat skeletal muscle. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were infused with either saline (SHAM) or ANGII at a commonly used pressor dose (100 ng/kg/min; ANGII-100) or a higher pressor dose (500 ng/kg/min; ANGII-500) via osmotic minipumps for 14 days. We demonstrated that ANGII-100-infused rats exhibited the phenotypic features of non-obese insulin resistance syndrome, including hypertension, impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance of glucose uptake in the soleus muscle, whereas ANGII-500-treated rats exhibited diabetes-like symptoms, such as post-prandial hyperglycemia, impaired insulin secretion and hypertriglyceridemia. At the cellular level, insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in the soleus muscle of the ANGII-100 group was 33% lower (P < 0.05) than that in the SHAM group and was associated with increased insulin-stimulated IRS-1 Ser307 and decreased Akt Ser473 and AS160 Thr642 phosphorylation and GLUT-4 expression. However, ANGII-500 infusion did not induce skeletal muscle insulin resistance or impair insulin signaling elements as initially anticipated. Moreover, we found that insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in the ANGII-500 group was accompanied by the enhanced expression of ACE2 and MasR proteins, which are the key elements in the non-classical pathway of the renin–angiotensin system. Collectively, this study demonstrates for the first time that chronic infusion with these two pressor doses of ANGII induced differential metabolic responses at both the systemic and skeletal muscle levels.
Políticas de acceso al financiamiento del micro, pequeño y mediano productor en las cadenas globales de mercancías: crédito e IED
Authors: Díaz Porras Rafael Antonio , Carranza Carlos Francisco
Published: January 2017

En este artículo se integra la teoría y conceptos del enfoque de análisis de las cadenas globales de mercancías con la teoría y conceptos de la teoría financiera del financiamiento para proponer cambios en materia de derechos de propiedad, legislación comercial, legislación financiera y de supervisión, que permitan a las instituciones financieras crear productos de financiamiento no convencionales para que pequeños productores rurales, pequeños grupos organizados de procesadores y pequeños exportadores tengan acceso al financiamiento o mejoren las condiciones en que lo reciben y así lograr que se  integren de manera sostenible a las cadenas globales de mercancías. Aunque ambos enfoques conceptuales se manejan de manera independiente en la literatura, esta se analiza para determinar áreas que apoyen la propuesta de una aproximación al financiamiento desde el punto de vista de las cadenas globales de mercancías, y que la misma se convierta en un nuevo paradigma de tecnología bancaria para los agentes financieros. Se analiza la estructura y los flujos de financiamiento entre agentes de la cadena y entre agentes de la cadena y agentes financieros, nacionales e internacionales, así como el rol de la inversión extranjera directa en el financiamiento de las cadenas globales de mercancías. La propuesta para los agentes financieros de crear nuevos instrumentos de financiamiento en el marco de las cadenas globales de mercancías se construye del análisis de las características de las cadenas, de los agentes productores y de los contratos, comerciales y financieros, que garantizan la recuperación de los recursos prestados.
Producción de Leche de Suiz-Bú, una Raza de Doble Propósito en el Trópico Mexicano
Authors: Hernández-Hernández Nicacia , Martínez-González Juan Carlos , Parra-Bracamonte Gaspar Manuel , González-Reyna Arnoldo , Cienfuegos-Rivas Eugenia Guadalupe , Hernández-Meléndez Javier
Published: January 2017

El objetivo del presente trabajo fue determinar el efecto de factores ambientales sobre la producción de leche de vacas Suiz-Bú en las condiciones del trópico mexicano. Se analizaron los registros de producción de leche de 728 vacas con información disponible de los años 2012 al 2014. Las vacas se ordeñaban dos veces al día a partir del quinto día posparto y eran alimentadas bajo condiciones de pastoreo y suplementación con concentrado comercial. Las variables producción de leche a 305 días (PL305) y media de producción diaria (MPD) fueron analizadas con un modelo mixto que incluyó efectos de número de lactancia (NL), año de parto (AP), época de parto (EP) y las interacciones simples. El año de parto fue estadísticamente significativo para PL305 y PMD que aquellas que parieron en época seca (p<0.05), y las vacas de primer parto tuvieron una menor PL305 que vacas con dos o tres lactancias (p<0.05). Asimismo, los efectos de las interacciones fueron significativas (p<0.05).

 
Frecuencia de Toxoplasmosis en Cerdos Provenientes de Granjas Tecnificadas y el Sexo como Factor de Riesgo
Authors: Carranza C. Fernando , Suárez A. Francisco , Chávez V. Amanda , Casas A. Eva
Published: January 2017

El objetivo del presente estudio fue estimar la frecuencia de cerdos provenientes de crianza tecnificada reactores a toxoplasmosis y la posible asociación del sexo con la positividad a la toxoplasmosis. Se tomaron 240 muestras de sangre de cerdos provenientes de granjas tecnificadas en un camal ubicado en la ciudad de Lima, Perú. Las muestras fueron analizadas mediante el método de inmunofluorescencia indirecta (IFI). La frecuencia de cerdos positivos a toxoplasmosis fue de 21.7%. La evaluación del sexo como posible factor de riesgo arrojó un Odds Ratio (OR) de 1.24 con intervalo de confianza de 0.88-3.06. Se concluye que hay una frecuencia importante de cerdos provenientes de granjas tecnificadas positivos a toxoplasmosis y que el sexo no influye en la presencia de esta enfermedad.
Helmintiasis y Eimeriosis Gastrointestinal en Alpacas Criadas al Pastoreo en Dos Granjas Comunales de la Región Pasco, Perú, y su Relación con el Peso y Condición Corporal
Authors: Mason Marine , Gutiérrez Gustavo , Puicón Víctor , Zárate Daniel
Published: January 2017

El objetivo del presente trabajo fue estudiar la relación entre los parásitos gastrointestinales con peso vivo y condición corporal en alpacas criadas al pastoreo en la región altoandina de Pasco, Perú. Se recolectaron muestras de heces de 160 alpacas de dos granjas comunales que fueron analizadas mediante las técnicas de McMaster modificado y coprocultivo para determinar la carga parasitaria y la identificación de las especies parasitarias. Se encontró una baja prevalencia de nematodos de modo que se decidió estudiar la relación entre la carga parasitaria de Eimeria macusaniensis con los dos parámetros productivos. Los resultados muestran una correlación negativa y significativa entre carga parasitaria y peso vivo (r2= 0.8938) y una correlación no significativa entre carga parasitaria y condición corporal (r2= 0.5747).
Síndrome Reproductivo Respiratorio Porcino: Presentación en el Tiempo y Efecto sobre los Parámetros Productivos y Reproductivos
Authors: Velásquez Vergara Carlomagno , Vega Vilca Jaime , Lucho Cerga Miguel
Published: January 2017

El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar la presentación del Síndrome Reproductivo Respiratorio Porcino (PRRS) en el tiempo y determinar el efecto que produce sobre las características productivas y reproductivas. Se evaluó el comportamiento productivo de 210 marranas Camborough 22, que parieron entre 2013 y 2015 en una granja porcina de Lima, Perú. Las características evaluadas fueron el promedio semanal/camada de lechones nacidos (NT), total de lechones nacidos vivos (NV), total de lechones nacidos muertos (NM), peso vivo de los lechones nacidos (PVLN), total de lechones destetados (LD), peso vivo de lechones destetados (PVLD), mortalidad de lechones al destete (MLD), peso vivo de lechones a los 70 días (PVL70) y mortalidad de lechones a los 70 días (ML70). El incremento de los NM superior a los límites normales de las gráficas de control duró 13 semanas, evidenciándose a partir de la semana 95 (cuarta semana octubre 2014) y se prolongó hasta la semana 108 (segunda semana febrero 2015). En el año de la presentación del PRRS, los NM, PVLN y ML70 se incrementaron en 2.3 veces, 6.8% y 13 veces, respectivamente (p<0.05), mientras que el NT, NV, LD, MLD y PVL70 disminuyeron en 16.4, 22.0, 20.5, 44.6 y 11.6%, respectivamente (p<0.05). La menor productividad redujo los ingresos por marrana/año hasta un 35.6%. El PRRS afectó los principales parámetros reproductivos y productivos evaluados hasta los 70 días de edad, generando pérdidas económicas.

 
Craneotomía Rostrotentorial Descompresiva en un Carnero Reproductor
Authors: Sandoval Monzón Rocío Silvia , Ruiz García Luis Felipe , Salinas Campos Eben Amed , Victorio Cisneros Willy Mayk
Published: January 2017

Este trabajo tuvo como objetivo presentar los resultados de una craneotomía rostrotentorial descompresiva realizada en un carnero Carriedale con severos signos neurológicos. El paciente presentaba un cuadro de paresia derecha producto de un síndrome de hemisferio izquierdo. La tomografía axial computarizada (TAC) mostró una masa tumoral en el hemisferio cerebral izquierdo. Con la finalidad de prolongar la vida del animal, dada su valía como reproductor, se realizó una craneotomía descompresiva. Se realizó la resección de una parte de la bóveda craneana a fin de dar más espacio al cerebro y aliviar la hipertensión endocraneana producida por dicha patología. Una vez recuperado de la anestesia, el animal presentó una remisión de los signos neurológicos. El paciente dejó de presentar torneo, ataxia y presión cefálica sobre las paredes al caminar. El paciente quedó bajo observación por un periodo de 20 días, durante el cual presentó buen ánimo y apetito. Los resultados obtenidos en la presente cirugía evidencian la posibilidad de emplear dicha técnica para el alivio de los signos clínicos neurológicos en animales que presenten neoplasias, edema, hematomas y coenurosis a nivel cerebral.
Hallazgos Histopatológicos en el Sistema Nervioso Central de Rattus norvegicus Infectados con Angiostrongylus cantonensis
Authors: Solórzano-Alava Luis , Sánchez-Amador Francisco , Pérez Carolina
Published: January 2017

Rattus norvegicus es el huésped definitivo del nematodo Angiostrongylus cantonensis. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar las alteraciones macroscópicas y lesiones histopatológicas en el sistema nervioso central (SNC) de ratas infectadas con A. cantonensis. Se trabajó con 35 R. norvegicus. De estas, 23 fueron infectadas experimentalmente con larvas L3 y 5 ratas quedaron sin inocular (controles), ambos grupos procedentes de bioterio, y 7 ratas capturadas en la ciudad de Guayaquil, Ecuador, cuya infección natural fue comprobada en el laboratorio. Siete de 23 ratas experimentalmente infectadas presentaron cambios de comportamiento (carreras en círculo) a partir del 29 día post-infección (dpi). Tres de estas ratas fueron sacrificadas a los 30-33 dpi y las otras 4 a los 48-105 dpi; asimismo, todas las ratas infectadas experimentalmente y las capturadas fueron sacrificadas. Los encéfalos fueron extraídos, pesados, preservados con formol al 10% e histológicamente procesados. En las tres ratas con 30-33 dpi se encontró edema cerebral, gliosis, congestión circular, hiperplasia de células endoteliales y desarrollo larval (L4-L5). En los cerebros de las ratas con más de 48 dpi se encontraron alteraciones similares y dilatación de vasos sanguíneos. El peso del cerebro de ratas positivas a A. cantonensis a los 33 y >48 dpi fue de 2.02 y 2.03 g, respectivamente, mientras que el peso promedio en ejemplares sanos (controles) fue de 1.82 g. Se concluye que A. cantonensis causa lesiones en el SNC de R. norvegicus.
Análisis de los Cambios Etarios según Sexo en el Borrego de Chiapas
Authors: Parés-Casanova P.M. , Caballero-Sala M. , Perezgrovas R.
Published: January 2017

El objetivo del estudio fue la evaluación de los cambios que se producen en diversas medidas corporales en el Borrego Chiapas. Se utilizaron 66 machos y 79 hembras de diversas edades y se registraron las siguientes variables: peso vivo, perímetro torácico, perímetro de la rodilla, perímetro de la caña, perímetro de la corona, perímetro de la rabadilla y longitud de la oreja. El estudio reflejó que hay cambio con la edad diferencial de distintos componentes del cuerpo, en ningún caso isométricos, siendo el peso vivo y el perímetro torácico las variables más discriminativas en el cambio con la edad. Aunque el peso vivo de los machos adultos (>12 meses, n=56) fue mayor que en las hembras (n=64) (U=1320, p=0.014), pero similar en el perímetro torácico (U=1720, p=0.704), las trayectorias de las rectas de regresión de la edad no presentaron diferencias de trayectoria alométrica entre machos y hembras, ni para el peso vivo (F=1.006, p=0.317) ni para el perímetro torácico (F=1.265, p=0.262).
Effectiveness and Duration of Protection of One Dose of a Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine
Authors: Cohn Amanda C. , MacNeil Jessica R. , Harrison Lee H. , Lynfield Ruth , Reingold Arthur , Schaffner William , Zell Elizabeth R. , Plikaytis Brian , Wang Xin , Messonnier Nancy E. ,   for the Active Bacterial Core Surveillance (ABCs) Team and MeningNet Surveillance Partners
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND:

Meningococcal conjugate vaccines were licensed beginning in 2005 on the basis of serologic end points and recommended for use in adolescents. A single dose at age 11 to 12 years was expected to provide protection through late adolescence. We conducted a case-control evaluation of vaccine effectiveness (VE) and duration of protection of a meningococcal (groups A, C, W, and Y) polysaccharide diphtheria toxoid conjugate vaccine (MenACWY-D).

METHODS:

Cases of culture- or polymerase chain reaction-confirmed serogroup A, C, W, and Y meningococcal disease among adolescents were identified through meningococcal disease surveillance sites in the United States from January 1, 2006, through August 31, 2013. Attempts were made to enroll 4 friend and school controls per case. VE was calculated using the generalized estimating equation, controlling for underlying medical conditions and smoking.

RESULTS:

Serogroup C accounted for 88 (49%), serogroup Y 80 (44%), and serogroup W 13 (7%) of enrolled cases. Thirty-six (20%) cases and 87 (44%) controls received MenACWY-D. The overall VE estimate 0 to 8 years postvaccination was 69% (51% to 80%); VE was 79% (49% to 91%) at <1 year, 69% (44% to 83%) at 1 to <3 years, and 61% (25% to 79%) at 3 to <8 years. VE was 77% (57% to 88%) against serogroup C and 51% (1% to 76%) against serogroup Y.

CONCLUSIONS:

MenACWY-D was effective in the first year after vaccination but effectiveness waned 3 to <8 years postvaccination. The estimates of VE from this evaluation informed the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices in its decision to add a booster dose of MenACWY.
Art, Liturgy and the Transformation of Memory
Authors: Harris Elizabeth J.
Published: January 2017

In the middle of the twentieth century, a group of Sri Lankan Christians, from a diversity of churches, sought rapprochement with Buddhism, in the context of long-standing Buddhist mistrust of Christianity, conditioned by memory of the colonial period. They included Yohan Devananda, Vijaya Vidyasagara, Michael Rodrigo omi, and Aloysius Pieris sj. One face of this wish for rapprochement found expression in the performative. Devananda devised a ‘New World Liturgy’ for his Christian ashram that included Buddhist readings. Vidyasagara, through the Christian Workers Fellowship (CWF), helped create a Workers’ Mass that used Buddhist terminology to highlight elements within Christianity. Rodrigo, who was murdered in 1987 whilst he was living in an entirely Buddhist village, expressed what he had learned from the Buddhists of this village in poetry and participated in Buddhist rituals and festivals. Pieris, at his research and dialogue centre, Tulana, invited Buddhist artists to interpret Christian themes through art. This article examines these examples against the backdrop of Buddhist mistrust of Christianity stemming from Sri Lanka’s colonial past and explores the extent to which the expression of respect by Christians through the performative has transformed memory of the colonial period.
Paving the Great Way: Vasubandhu’s Unifying Buddhist Philosophy, by Jonathan Gold
Authors: Nichols Michael D.
Published: January 2017

Paving the Great Way: Vasubandhu’s Unifying Buddhist Philosophy, by Jonathan Gold. New York: Columbia University Press, 2015. x + 322 pp., £38.00 (hb). ISBN 978-0-23116-8-267 (hb).
Uso do Modelo WRF-CHEM para a Simulação da Dispersão de Gases no Centro de Lançamento de Alcântara.
Authors: Iriart Paulo Geovani ,   Instituto Tecnológico de Aeronáutica,  Brasil, Fisch Gilberto ,   Instituto de Aeronáutica e Espaço,  Brasil
Published: January 2017

Resumo O presente trabalho utiliza o modelo Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) acoplado ao seu módulo químico para simular a dispersão dos poluentes emitidos por um Veículo Lançador de Satélites (VLS) lançado a partir do Centro de Lançamento de Alcântara (CLA). Para inserir os dados químicos no modelo foi utilizado o pré-processador PREP-CHEM. As simulações foram feitas para 4 casos a saber: casos dos períodos diurnos e noturnos durante as estações seca e chuvosa. Identificaram-se as regiões afetadas pela emissão de monóxido de carbono (CO), bem como a sua trajetória em função dos ventos. Dentre as regiões atingidas o estacionamento foi o que teve as maiores concentrações de CO, seguido pelo prédio da meteorologia, Vila de Alcântara e Vila Tapireí. Além disso, foi possível verificar em quanto tempo ocorre à dissipação de CO na região do CLA, para cada caso. As simulações do período seco nos casos diurno e noturno levaram 29 min e 1 h 12 min, respectivamente. Para as simulações do período chuvoso, foram de 40 min (caso diurno) e 1 h 30 min (caso noturno). Foi possível identificar que a maior intensidade turbulenta do período diurno, juntamente com ventos mais intensos, são os responsáveis por uma dissipação mais rápida da nuvem de poluentes.
Transmissividade Atmosférica da Radiação Global na Região Amazônica de Mato Grosso
Authors: Souza Adilson Pacheco de ,   Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso,  Brasil, Zamadei Tamara , Monteiro Emanoeli Borges , Casavecchia Bruno Henrique ,   Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso,  Brasil,   Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso,  Brasil
Published: January 2017

Resumo Objetivou-se avaliar as variações das médias mensais da radiação global e as frequências do coeficiente de transmissividade atmosférica global (Kt) para 16 municípios da região amazônica do Estado de Mato Grosso. Os dados utilizados foram obtidos pelo Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia, nos períodos de 2008 a 2014. O Kt foi obtido pela razão entre a radiação global e a radiação incidente no topo da atmosfera. Adotou-se a classificação de cobertura de céu em função de Kt para a partição diária em quatro classes: I - céu nublado (Kt ≤ 0,35), II - céu parcialmente nublado (0,35 ≤ Kt ≥ 0,55), III - céu parcialmente aberto (0,55 < Kt ≥ 0,65) e IV - céu aberto (Kt > 0,65). Entre abril e setembro (estação seca) ocorrem maiores índices de transmissividade atmosférica em função da baixa atenuação da radiação solar pela interação com os constituintes atmosféricos, com maiores frequências de condição de céu IV e II. As condições de cobertura de céu são dependentes do comportamento pluviométrico regional e apresentam percentuais médios diferenciados entre municípios do bioma amazônico.
Classicação Sinótica de Frentes Frias Associadas a Chuvas Extremas no Leste de Santa Catarina (SC)
Authors: Escobar Gustavo C.J. ,   Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais,  Brasil, Seluchi Marcelo E. , Andrade Kelen ,   Centro Nacional de Monitoramento e Alerta de Desastres Naturais,  Brasil,   Centro Nacional de Monitoramento e Alerta de Desastres Naturais,  Brasil
Published: January 2017

Resumo O trabalho apresenta uma classificação sinótica de frentes frias sobre o leste do Estado de Santa Catarina (SC), com o propósito de identificar os principais padrões sinóticos associados com chuvas extremas na região do Vale do Itajaí. A metodologia utilizada foi a técnica de Análise de Componentes Principais aplicada à série de reanálises do Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (CFSR) (NCEP) para o período 1979-2010. Previamente, realiza-se uma climatologia de frentes frias sobre o leste de SC, cujos resultados mostram uma maior frequência de frentes frias associadas a chuvas extremas no Vale do Itajaí durante a primavera. Os resultados fornecem cinco padrões sinóticos principais que representam 83,4% dos casos de frentes frias com chuvas extremas no Vale do Itajaí. O padrão sinótico mais frequente mostra um intenso fluxo de quadrante sudeste sobre a região de estudo, determinado pela presença de um forte anticiclone pós-frontal observado sobre o sul da Província de Buenos Aires, cuja frente fria associada encontra-se no extremo nordeste catarinense. Por último, há dois padrões sinóticos típicos de verão relacionados com chuvas extremas no Vale do Itajaí; um relacionado com episódios de Zona de Convergência do Atlântico Sul (ZCAS) e outro associado com a Baixa do Chaco (BCH).
Exploring various approaches of social innovation: a francophone literature review and a proposal of innovation typology
Authors: Gregoire Maud
Published: January 2017

ABSTRACT Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to clarify the multiple different approaches of social innovation, focusing on francophone literature. Originality/gap/relevance/implications: We propose an in-depth literature review that questions the meaning of the adjective "social" when used by authors to qualify an innovation, that highlights the different approaches of the concept, their relations to each other and their limits, and that illustrates these approaches with concrete examples. Finally, we build on these materials to propose a new innovation typology that wholly integrates social innovation. Key methodological aspects: The literature review is based on a selection of 25 papers in French - the mother language of the author - which were collected and analyzed using the "theoretical saturation point" method: we stopped the review when we felt there was no new crucial element in the next articles read, that is, when it seemed that a "saturation point" of information had been reached about theories on social innovation. Summary of key results: The definition of social innovation as new answers provided to unsatisfied or badly-satisfied social demands seems to prevail in the literature. It can be divided into three sub-approaches: the public policies, the social entrepreneurship, and the participatory dynamics, which strikes us as the most interesting, without excluding the others. Key considerations/conclusions: We propose a new innovation typology, which presents social innovation's relations to other types of innovation. We conclude with some considerations about social innovation context of emergence, and about its ambiguous position in the neoliberal system.
Descobertas de exoplanetas pelo método do trânsito
Authors: Santos W. C. , Amorim R. G. G.
Published: January 2017

Apresentamos neste trabalho uma breve revisão sobre o método de trânsito na detecção de exoplanetas. O trânsito é uma técnica baseada na redução do brilho de uma estrela quando o exoplaneta passa na sua frente percorrendo o seu disco, com respeito à linha de visada. O método de trânsito é responsável por 23% das detecções de exoplanetas. Nesse sentido, discutimos de forma pedagógica os detalhes da técnica, deduzindo as principais equações. Por fim, a aplicação do método na detecção do exoplaneta COROT-1b foi analisado.
Divulgação científica na Amazônia: O Laboratório de Demonstrações da UFPA
Authors: Caldas Jocasta , Crispino Luís C. B.
Published: January 2017

A divulgação científica possui um papel fundamental na democratização do acesso ao conhecimento. Nas últimas décadas, diversas iniciativas de difusão científica surgiram e se desenvolveram em meio a um processo de expansão de instituições e de investimentos. Na Amazônia brasileira, o número de ações de divulgação científica está muito aquém do necessário para contemplar satisfatoriamente sua vasta extensão territorial. O Laboratório de Demonstrações da Universidade Federal do Pará, fundado em 2004, tem atuado como um centro de ciência visando o avanço da alfabetização científica na Amazônia brasileira, assim como da difusão e popularização da ciência e tecnologia. Neste artigo apresentamos as atividades deste Laboratório de Demonstrações ao longo de mais de uma década de atuação e o impacto de suas ações educativas e de divulgação científica na Amazônia brasileira.
VERSIONS VERSUS BODIES: TRANSLATIONS IN THE MISSIONARY ENCOUNTER IN AMAZONIA
Authors: Vilaça Aparecida ,   Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro,  Brazil
Published: January 2017

Abstract This paper analyzes the two distinct concepts of translation at work in the encounter between the Amazonian Wari' and the New Tribes Mission evangelical missionaries, and the equivocations stemming from this difference. While the missionaries conceive translation as a process of converting meanings between languages, conceived as linguistic codes that exist independently of culture, for the Wari', in consonance with their perspectivist ontology, it is not language that differentiates beings but their bodies, given that those with similar bodies can, as a matter of principle, communicate with each other verbally. Translation is realized through the bodily metamorphosis objectified by mimetism and making kin, shamans being the translators par excellence, capable of circulating between distinct universes and providing the Wari' with a dictionary-like lexicon that allows them to act in the context of dangerous encounters between humans and animals.
WEATHERING: A GRAPHIC ESSAY
Authors: Azevedo Aina ,   University of Aberdeen,  United Kingdom, Schroer Sara Asu ,   University of Aberdeen,  United Kingdom
Published: January 2017

Abstract This graphic essay is part of an ongoing collaborative effort that combines ethnographic research on the relationships between falconers, birds of prey and their environments with research on drawing as an anthropological method and "style". Through a combination of text and drawings, the essay shows the affective materiality of the world through a focus on the aerial perception of birds of prey as they move with the currents of the wind. The term 'weathering', developed in previous work by one of the authors, is here presented as the transformational activity of the weather that is fundamental for the way in which falconers and birds of prey perceive and experience the environments in which they engage. Here landforms and the aerial spaces above are not perceived as separate spheres but rather as mutually constituting each other through the ever-present and ongoing effects of the weather.
Formação por competência: discutindo a formação de pilotos no Brasil
Authors: Fontes Rejane de Souza ,   PUC-RS,  Brasil, Fay Claudia Musa ,   Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul,  Brazil
Published: January 2017

Resumo O artigo se propõe, com base em uma revisão bibliográfica, apresentar uma discussão sobre a trajetória da formação do piloto no Brasil e o paradigma de sua formação baseada em competência. Apresenta como objeto de análise a licença de Piloto de Tripulação Múltipla [Multi-crew Pilot Licence] - MPL. A licença de MPL, a primeira criada em mais de quarenta anos de existência da Organização de Aviação Civil Internacional - ICAO -, introduziu um debate sobre a formação do piloto diante dos avanços tecnológicos produzidos pela indústria aeronáutica e o processo de automação das aeronaves. Embora ainda não haja dados suficientes para comprovar a eficácia da licença de MPL, resultados preliminares apontam que sua formação baseada em competência pode ser igual ou superior à formação do piloto tradicional.
Consultoria colaborativa a distância em tecnologia assistiva para professores
Authors: Calheiros David dos Santos ,   Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Brazil, Mendes Enicéia Gonçalves ,   Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Brazil
Published: January 2017

Resumo O objetivo do estudo consistiu em avaliar um serviço de consultoria colaborativa - SCC - a distância em Tecnologia Assistiva - TA - para professores, utilizando abordagem qualitativa do tipo exploratório. As participantes foram seis professoras de alunos com paralisia cerebral - PC - e três consultoras em TA. Um ambiente virtual de aprendizagem foi construído para prestar consultoria e coletar os dados obtidos na forma de respostas a questionários para consultores e professores. Os dados foram tratados pela análise de conteúdo. As evidências indicam que o SCC revelou-se benéfico para a atuação das consultoras e professoras, bem como para os estudantes com PC. A contribuição desta investigação consiste em indicar mais uma possibilidade de serviço de apoio à escola inclusiva.
Alzheimer’s desease: challenges faced by family caregivers
Authors: Kucmanski Luciane Salete ,   Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul,  Brazil, Zenevicz Leoni , Geremia Daniela Savi , Madureira Valeria Silvana Faganello , Silva Tatiana Gaffuri da , Souza Sílvia Silva de
Published: January 2017

Abstract Gaps identified in Brazilian health policies and the need to develop and implement strategies for the empowerment and monitoring of family caregivers support the development of care proposals aimed at the family. The present study aimed to analyze the challenges faced by family members providing day to day care of patients with Alzheimer's disease in the city of Chapecó, Santa Catarina. The method employed was the qualitative approach through semi-structured interviews. The speeches were grouped, categorized and analyzed using the hermeneutic method. The results showed that during the period of Alzheimer's disease, caregivers experience a range of situations, including: a need to learn about the disease; dealing with guilt; and handling situations of pain, addiction and physical and psychological suffering. In conclusion the study described the challenges of the daily lives of these families, explaining the importance of and highlighting the need to adopt tools and strategies that provide physical, emotional, psychological and financial support to family caregivers of patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Sexuality through the eyes of the elderly.
Authors: Uchôa Yasmim da Silva ,   Centro Universitário do Pará,  Brasil, Costa Dayara Carla Amaral da , Silva Junior Ivan Arnaldo Pamplona da , Silva Saulo de Tarso Saldanha Eremita de , Freitas Wiviane Maria Torres de Matos , Soares Soanne Chyara da Silva
Published: January 2017

Abstract Objective: to identify the perception of elderly persons about sexuality. Methods: a quantitative, observational and analytical cross-sectional study was performed in an institution specializing in elderly care in Belém, in the state of Pará. A questionnaire, produced by the authors, was applied to 200 elderly persons, aiming to identify issues related to sexuality both in their youth and today, as well as stimulant strategies and sexuality inhibiting factors among the elderly, among other issues. Data was statistically analyzed through the G-Test for adherence. Results: The researched elderly had an average age of 72 (±5.92) years. The majority said they were not prepared for the beginning of sexual activity when young (62.5%), and had little knowledge about sexually transmitted diseases or methods of preventing them (42.3%). Today, the majority (84%) did not understand the distinction between sexuality and sex, even though most (69.5%) believed that they can stimulate their own sexuality. They also identified family (16.5%) and religion (15.5%) as inhibitory factors for their sexuality. A total of 28.5% of those interviewed reported having a sexual dysfunction and more than half (52.5%) did not seek medical support. They believed that health professionals are prepared to deal with the issue, although such professionals are almost the last information source consulted (17.5%) in relation to sexuality. Conclusion: many factors support the myth that older people are asexual: limited access to information from their youth to the present day, the physiological changes connected to aging itself, religious precepts and family oppression. However, further studies and actions directed at this population are important to promote the health of the elderly.
Correlations between low back pain and functional capacity among the elderly
Authors: Nasrala Neto Elias ,   Universidade de Cuiabá,  Brazil, Bittencourt Walkiria Shimoya , Nasrala Mara Lilian Soares , Oliveira Andre Luiz Lopes de , Souza Ana Carolina Gaudencio de , Nascimento Jéssica Fialho do
Published: January 2017

Abstract Objective: To investigate the association between low back pain and functional capacity among non-institutionalized elderly persons. Method: A cross-sectional observational study of non-institutionalized elderly persons was performed. The Timed Up and Go (TUG) and Sitting-Rising Test (SRT) functional tests were used, together with the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ). Result: A total of 99 elderly persons of both genders were included. Kendall’s Correlation analysis showed a significant correlation between the RMDQ and the SRT scores for the act of sitting (p=0.001) and the act of lifting (p=0.028). Despite the statistical significance, these two variables were weakly correlated (r=-239;r=-163). The results also identified a statistically significant correlation between the TUG and SRT tests for the act of sitting (r=-222; p=0.003) and the act of lifting (r=-206; p=0.006). Conclusion: It was observed that most of the non-institutionalized elderly persons had good functional capacity. It is also possible to affirm that there is an association between low back pain and functional capacity.