bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of the Molecular-Genetic Markers in the Selection Process of the Ukrainian Animal Husbandry
Authors: Kopylov K. , Kopylova K. , Shelov A. , Berezovsky O.
Published: July 2015

Aim. To analyze the genetic structure of the Holstein and Simmental breeding bulls from various breeding stock-rearing farms of Ukraine by polymorphisms of kappa-casein, β-lactoglobulin, growth hormone, leptin, pituitary-specifi c transcription factor, myostatin loci genes. Methods. Individual genotypes of the animals were determined using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by determination of restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP analysis). Results. A complex model genotype for increasing milk yield of the animals of the Ukrainian Black and White Dairy breed – κ-Cn АВ , βLG АВ , GH LV , Pit-1 АА , LEP АА , butterfat content – κ-Cn АВ , βLG АВ , GH VV , Pit-1 АА , LEP BB/AB ; Ukrainian Red and White Dairy breed – Cn АА , βLG АА , GH L , PIt-1 AB and κ-Cn AA , βLG AB , GH LV , Pit-1 AB ; Simmental breed – κ-Cn ВВ , βLG ВВ , GH LL , LEP AB and κ-Cn ВВ , βLG ВВ , GH LV , LEP AA was determined respectively. Genetic certifi cation of the breeding bulls of 25 various breeds on standard
microsatellite panels (ВМ1824, ВМ2113, INRA023, SPS115, TGLA122, TGLA126, TGLA227, ETH10, ETH225, ETH3) was held for their biological material long-term storage rationale in the National Bank of Genetic Resources. Conclusions. Comprehensive monitoring of cattle breeding resources predetermines the implementation of genetic examination of the breeding animals’ origin according to ISAG international guidelines in Ukraine. This will determine the specifi c type or breed gene pool as a whole, also characterize the vector of micro-evolutionary processes in the populations of animals and allow to solve other breeding and genetic problems.
Association Between Hyponatremia and Higher Bronchiolitis Severity Among Children in the ICU With Bronchiolitis
Authors: Hasegawa Kohei , Stevenson Michelle D. , Mansbach Jonathan M. , Schroeder Alan R. , Sullivan Ashley F. , Espinola Janice A. , Piedra Pedro A. , Camargo Carlos A.
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

It remains unclear whether hyponatremia independently predicts a higher severity of bronchiolitis in children. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between hyponatremia and bronchiolitis severity in children hospitalized in the ICU for bronchiolitis.

METHODS:

We conducted a 16-center, prospective cohort study of hospitalized children aged <2 years with bronchiolitis during the winters of 2007 through 2010. Patients were classified into 2 groups (normonatremic [135–145 mEq/L] and hyponatremic [<135 mEq/L]) based on the first-measured serum sodium concentration on the day of hospitalization. Outcomes were use of mechanical ventilation and ICU length of stay (LOS). To examine the association of sodium status with outcomes, we fit logistic and linear regression models with propensity score adjustment.

RESULTS:

Of 231 children hospitalized in the ICU for bronchiolitis, 193 (84%) were categorized into the normonatremic group and 38 (16%) into the hyponatremic group. Compared with children with normonatremia, those with hyponatremia had higher risks of mechanical ventilation use (40% vs 58%; P = .04) and longer ICU LOS (median, 3 vs 6 days; P = .007). Likewise, in the adjusted analyses, children with hyponatremia had significantly higher risks of mechanical ventilation use (odds ratio, 2.14 [95% confidence interval, 1.03–4.48; P = .04) and longer ICU LOS (β-coefficient, 2.21 days [95% confidence interval, 0.68–3.73; P = .005]).

CONCLUSIONS:

In this prospective, multicenter study of children hospitalized for bronchiolitis, hyponatremia on the day of hospitalization was associated with a higher severity of disease. Our data support hyponatremia as a prognostic factor that might improve the ability of clinicians to predict the disease course of children with severe bronchiolitis.
Red Blood Cell Storage in Transfusion-Related Acute Gut Injury
Authors: La Gamma Edmund F. , Feldman Alex , Mintzer Jonathan , Lakshminrusimha Satyan , Alpan Gad
Published: July 2015

Transfusion-related acute gut injury is defined as the occurrence of necrotizing enterocolitis 48 hours or less after a packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion for marked anemia in older, low-risk infants born at extremely low gestational ages (<28 weeks’ gestational age) who are no longer experiencing any historically associated risk factors except enteral feeding. As oxygen delivery decreases with advancing anemia, growing premature neonates compensate by redistribution of blood flow, increased cardiac output, and elevated oxygen extraction. Further adjustments to microvascular blood flow arise from nitric oxide–based hypoxic vasodilation, which eventually becomes limiting for sustaining oxygen consumption. Among many effects on red blood cells (RBC), storage lowers donor RBC nitric oxide content and increases free hemoglobin nitric oxide scavenging, whereas low oxygenation reduces nitric oxide production by endothelial nitric oxide synthase; these varied mechanisms collectively result in mitigation of hypoxic vasodilation. Because the adverse effect of packed RBCs on neonatal gut oxygenation appears primarily in association with extreme anemia, a sudden reduction in mucosal blood flow during periods of increased oxygen demand (enteral feeding) presumably results in injury to the physical barrier, enabling bacterial invasion and necrotizing enterocolitis. In infants born at extremely low gestational ages, PRBC transfusions for iatrogenic or developmentally acquired anemia are common and will persist even after all conservation techniques, microassay methods, and use of erythropoietin have been implemented. A fixed need for transfusions exists because of additional biologic restrictions imposed by normal rates of human somatic growth coupled with limits of RBC production to accommodate the need for an expanding RBC mass. Improved understanding of etiologic mechanisms of microvascular injury with transfusion should be instructive to clinicians in managing this dilemma.
Determining Optimal Polypropylene Fiber Dosages In Sprayed Concrete For Mining And Civil Engineering Applications
Authors: Kahraman Bayram
Published: July 2015

In this study, experimental investigations were carried out on polypropylene fiber (PF), steel mesh (SM) and PF+SMreinforced shotcrete (RS) panels to evaluate performance characteristics of energy absorption and load capacity. Inaddition to this, material cost evaluation of shotcrete mixtures for unit energy absorption and load capacity has been given.The panel tests, along with the European specification for sprayed concrete (EFNARC), were done on 18 prismaticspecimens having the same mix designs and were cured for 28 days but reinforced at varying fiber dosages. Testresults indicate that in terms of unit cost performance for PF, the best dosages were 2 kg/m³ and 5 kg/m³ respectively.When compared with SM, it was determined that PF is more expensive within the range of 37 - 53%.

 

Resumen
En este estudio se realizaron investigaciones experimentales en fibras de polipropileno, en mallas de acero y en paneles de hormigón proyectado reforzados con fibra de polipropileno y con mallas de acero para evaluar las características de desempeño en absorción de energía y en capacidad de carga. Adicionalmente, se provee una evaluación del costo de materiales en mezlas de hormigón proyectado por unidad de absorción de energía y por capacidad de carga. Los exámenes en paneles, con las especificaciones europeas para hormigón proyectado (EFNARC, inglés), se realizaron en 18 muestras prismáticas con los mismos diseños de mezcla y se curaron por 28 días con refuerzos de diferentes dosis de fibras. Los resultados de la evaluación indican que, en términos de desempeño por unidad de costo para fibras de polipropileno, las mejores dosis fueron 2 kg/m3 y 5 kg/m3, respectivamente. Cuando se comparó con las mallas de acero, se determinó que las fibras de polipropileno son entre el 37 % y el 53 % más caras.
Gis Based SCS - CN Method For Estimating Runoff In Kundahpalam Watershed, Nilgries District, Tamilnadu
Authors: Raja Viji
Published: July 2015

Divination and determination of catchment surface runoff are the most important contestable process of hydrology. Soil Conservation Service - Curve Number (SCS – CN) method is employed to estimate the runoff. It is one of the physical based and spatially distributed hydrological models. In this model, the curve number is a primary factor used for runoff calculation. The selection of curve number is based on the land use pattern and HSG (Hydrological Soil Group) present in the study area. Since the spatial distribution of CN estimation by the conventional way is very difficult and time consuming, the GIS (Geographic Information System) based CN method is generated for Kundapallam watershed. With the combination of land use and HSG the estimated composite CN for AMC (Antecedent Moisture Condition) I, AMC II and AMC III for the entire watershed was about 48, 68 and 83 respectively. The average annual runoff depth estimated by SCS-CN method for the average annual rainfall of 173.5 mm was found to be 72.5 mm. The obtained results were comparable to measured runoff in the watershed.

 

Resumen
La predicción y la determinación del caudal de escorrentía de una cuenca son procesos de amplio debate en la hidrología. El método coeficiente de escurrimiento, del Servicio de Conservación de Suelos (SCS-CN, inglés) fue utilizado en este trabajo para estimar la escorrentía. Este es uno de los modelos hidrológicos basados en conceptos físicos y distribución espacial. En este modelo el coeficiente de escurrimiento es un factor de relevancia para el cálculo de la escorrentía. La selección del coeficiente de escurrimiento está basada en los patrones del uso de la tierra y del Grupo de Suelos Hidrológicos (HSG, inglés) relativos a esta área de estudio. Debido a que la estimación del coeficiente de escurrimiento en la distribución espacial es compleja, para la cuenca Kundapallam se implementó un método a partir de un Sistema de Información Geográfica (GIS, inglés), y basado en el coeficiente de escurrimiento. Con la combinación del uso de suelos y el HSG, la estimación compuesta del coeficiente de escurrimiento para el Antecedente de Condición de Humedad AMCI, AMCII y AMCIII para toda la cuenca fue de 48, 68 y 83. El promedio anual de escorrentía profunda estimada por el método SCS-CN con una media anual de lluvia de 173,5 mm fue de 72,5 mm. Los resultados fueron comparados con la escorrentía medida en la cuenca.
Using GIS And Geophysics In Selecting Suitable Basins With Freshwater Aquifers For An Efficient Exploration Strategy - A Case Study From Petra-Region, Jordan
Authors: Al Farajat Mohammmad , Schaefers Bernhard , Al Hassanat Hussein , Al Atteyat Nedal , Al Jahed Nidal , Khataibeh Jamal
Published: July 2015

In this study, an effective and time-saving strategy for groundwater exploration in alluvium basins in arid-semiarid lands was applied by integrating GIS and geophysics. Three steps were followed to locate productive local groundwater aquifers prone to annual recharge in the Region of Petra, which covers an area of 800 km². In the first step, geological, structural and geomorphological knowledge was applied to determine the parts of the sedimentary basin having potentials of being local groundwater aquifers. Some locality of the selected area with suitable hydrological conditions for recharge was chosen for an optimization process using GIS. In the second step, the selected locality of the basin was given emphasize on its detailed geology and hydrology to choose suitable locality for applying gravity visualization. Evaluation of this data leads to step number three. Now at localities with promising conditions vertical electrical soundings was applied to enable the authors to determine productive and renewable groundwater aquifers. As it is known that geophysical methods are considered as expensive and time-consuming work, therefore, in this strategy of groundwater surveying a special attention is given to budgets of time, efforts and funds constraints

 

Resumen
En este estudio se aplicó una estrategia efectiva y eficaz para la exploración de aguas subterráneas en cuencas con depósitos aluviales para terrenos áridos y semiáridos a través de la integración del Sistema de Información Geográfica (GIS, inglés) y herramientas geofísicas. Se siguieron tres pasos para localizar acuíferos locales de aguas subterráneas propensos a las recargas anuales en la región de Petra, que cubre un área de 800 km2. En el primer paso se aplicó el conocimiento teórico para determinar las partes de la cuenca sedimentaria con el potencial de ser un acuífero local de aguas subterráneas. Se escogió una de las localidades del área seleccionada con condiciones hidrológicas apropiadas de recarga para un proceso de optimización con el GIS. En el segundo paso se hizo énfasis en la geología e hidrología detallada de la localidad seleccionada de la cuenca para así escoger un lugar apropiado para la aplicación del método de visualización gravitacional. La evaluación de los datos condujo el estudio al tercer paso. Se realizaron sondeos eléctricos en los lugares con evidencias para permitirle a los autores determinar los depósitos de aguas subterráneas productivos y renovables. Si bien los métodos geofísicos son considerados costosos y demandantes de tiempo, con esta estrategia de exploración de aguas subterráneas se hizo un énfasis especial a los presupuestos de tiempo, esfuerzo y limitaciones de fondos.
Global Professional Identity in Deterretorialized Spaces: A Case Study of a Critical Dialogue Between Expert and Novice Nonnative English Speaker Teachers
Authors: Guerrero Carmen Helena , Meadows Bryan
Published: July 2015

This study analyzes the online, peer-peer dialogue between two groups of nonnative English-speaking teachers who are attending graduate programs in Colombia and the United States. Framed by the theoretical concepts of critical pedagogy and global professional identity, a qualitative analysis of the data shows that their expert vs. novice roles played a significant part in shaping their positions on the four themes that they discussed: the role of English language teaching in the global world, institutional constraints on teachers, whose culture to teach, and linguistic diversity in the classroom. This study highlights the responsibility of teacher education programs to cultivate healthy nonnative English speaker teachers’ professional identities given the global complexities that continue to unfold around these teachers.

En este estudio se analiza el diálogo en línea entre profesores de inglés no nativos, estudiantes de maestría en Colombia y Estados Unidos. El estudio se sustentó en pedagogía crítica e identidad profesional global. El análisis de los datos muestra que los roles experto/novato jugaron un papel relevante en las posiciones que los participantes asumieron con relación a cuatro temas: el papel de la enseñanza del inglés en el mundo global, las limitaciones institucionales sobre los docentes, qué cultura enseñar, y la diversidad lingüística en el salón. Este estudio señala la responsabilidad de los programas de formación docente en promover un desarrollo saludable de la identidad profesional de los profesores no hablantes nativos, dadas las complejidades globales a las que se enfrentan.
Reflective Teacher Supervision Through Videos of Classroom Teaching
Authors: Kaneko-Marques Sandra Mari
Published: July 2015

The main objective of this paper is to briefly present roles of different teacher supervisors according to distinct models, highlighting the importance of collaborative dialogues supported by video recordings. This paper will present results from a qualitative study of an English as a foreign language teacher education course in Brazil. The results indicated that collaborative supervision was an efficient tool to address adversities within educational contexts and that student teachers who observed their pedagogical actions through videos became more reflective and self-evaluative, as they provided a deeper analysis regarding their practice. With collaborative supervision, teacher candidates can be encouraged to recognize and understand the complexities of language learning and teaching both locally and globally.

El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar diferentes roles de profesor supervisor según modelos distintos y destacar la importancia de diálogos colaborativos con apoyo de grabaciones de video. Para lograrlo, se muestran resultados de un estudio cualitativo desarrollado en un curso de formación de profesores de inglés como lengua extranjera en Brasil. Los resultados indicaron que la supervisión colaborativa fue eficiente frente a la adversidad de contextos educativos. Se concluyó que los estudiantes-profesores que observaron sus acciones pedagógicas a través de videos se volvieron más reflexivos y lograron autoevaluarse, ya que hacían un profundo análisis de su práctica. Con supervisión colaborativa, se alienta a futuros profesores a reconocer y comprender las complejidades de la enseñanza y aprendizaje local y globalmente.
Students’ Perceptions of the Impact of CLIL in a Mexican BA Program
Authors: Nuñez Asomoza Alejandra
Published: July 2015

Content and language integrated learning is an innovative pedagogical approach used in educational institutions worldwide. This study considers information and experiences from various settings in order to explore content and language integrated learning within the Mexican context. This study reports the perceptions of students in a BA program. Through the study’s using qualitative research, the students’ voices students reveal their emotions, struggles, benefits, and opinions related to taking content and language integrated learning classes. The analysis of the participants’ information shows the potential for implementing content and language integrated learning programs in Mexico in that it suggests some areas of improvement for teachers, material design, administrators, and institutions in general.

El enfoque pedagógico de enseñanza de contenido-lengua integrados es una tendencia innovadora en los sistemas educativos del mundo. El estudio se basa en la información y experiencia de varios contextos donde se ha usado este enfoque para explorarlo en el contexto mexicano. El artículo reporta las percepciones de estudiantes de licenciatura para conocer más sobre la enseñanza de contenido-lengua integrados. A través de la investigación cualitativa, las voces de los estudiantes revelarán las emociones, dificultades, ventajas y opiniones al tomar clases con este enfoque. El análisis de datos muestra el potencial de la implementación de programas de enseñanza de contenido-lengua integrados en México, mientras sugiere áreas de oportunidad para docentes, diseño de materiales, administrativos e instituciones en general.
Aplicaciones de Software Libre para automatizar servicios en una biblioteca : uso de software Calibre para la creación de un repositorio digital
Authors: Herrera Burgos Rolando
Published: July 2015

Este artículo propone el uso de herramientas informáticas desarrolladas bajo el modelo de Software Libre para poder automatizar de forma sencilla distintos servicios que pueden brindar las bibliotecas. Se explora el uso de la aplicación Calibre para crear un repositorio digital que permita a los usuarios acceder a materiales en línea y a texto completo mediante el uso de Internet.
Evaluación del Sistema de Bibliotecas de la Organización para Estudios Tropicales (OET)
Authors: Aguilar Zumbado Susana , Sandí Sandí Magda Cecilia , Vargas Bolaños Rebeca
Published: July 2015

En este artículo se muestran los principales resultados del Trabajo Final de Graduación titulado "Diagnóstico del Sistema de Bibliotecas de la Organización para Estudios Tropicales (OET), periodo 2013: Propuesta para el mejoramiento de sus servicios y productos de información", el cual formó parte esencial del proyecto de investigación " Propuesta de diseño de servicios y productos virtuales especializados en el campo de la biodiversidad ", inscrito en la Escuela de Bibliotecología y Ciencias de la Información de la Universidad de Costa Rica. Esta investigación es de tipo cuantitativo y se define como descriptiva. Se realizó un diagnóstico para conocer el perfil de las personas usuarias del sistema de bibliotecas de la OET, así como sus necesidades de información, por medio de seis cuestionarios dirigidos a diferentes poblaciones usuarias del sistema. El periodo de estudio fue de marzo a julio del 2013. Entre los principales resultados se aprecia que el Sistema de Bibliotecas es de gran importancia para la comunidad científica al que está dirigido; sin embargo, sus servicios y productos requieren de una mayor proyección en el área para poder aprovechar la riqueza documental que alberga en sus cuatro bibliotecas.
Estrategias para el fomento a la lectura: ideas y recomendaciones para la ejecución de talleres de animación lectora
Authors: Chaves Salgado Lorena
Published: July 2015

Este trabajo plantea una guía con recomendaciones para la ejecución de talleres de animación a la lectura como un medio para fomentar el desarrollo del hábito lector y el disfrute de la lectura en la vida de los niños y las niñas.
Comportamientos y prejuicios de los jóvenes con relación al VIH/Sida: un estudio cualitativo con jóvenes universitarios nicaragüenses
Authors: Pérez-Pérez Itahisa , Morón-Marchena Juan Agustín , Cobos-Sanchiz David
Published: July 2015

Objetivos: determinar conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas de riesgo de los jóvenes universitarios nicaragüenses con respecto al VIH para desarrollar propuestas de mejora socio-educativa que permitan contribuir a controlar la pandemia en este contexto. Métodos: se trata de un estudio cualitativo desarrollado en la Facultad Regional Multidisciplinar de Chontales (Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua-Managua). Se realizaron dos grupos de discusión con estudiantes, entrevistas a informantes clave del mismo centro, así como un grupo de discusión con expertos de la Comisión Nicaragüense contra el SIDA. Resultados: las expectativas sociales del machismo suponen un obstáculo en materia de educación sexual. Existe una clara diferenciación de género en el discurso explícito sobre el sexo en general y sobre las Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual (ITS) en particular. Se dan diferencias significativas de percepción y conocimientos entre el mundo rural y urbano. Persisten gran cantidad de prejuicios, estereotipos y fobia al contagio. Interpretación y conclusiones: el machismo influye en las relaciones sexuales en cuanto a la utilización de métodos de protección. La cultura tradicional dificulta hablar abiertamente de la sexualidad en las familias y entre iguales. Las prácticas de riesgo  no se producen tanto por falta de información como sí por la escasa concienciación entre los jóvenes.
Molecular typing, pathogenicity factor genes and antimicrobial susceptibility of vancomycin resistant enterococci in Belgrade, Serbia
Authors: Jovanović Milica , Milošević Branko , Tošić Tanja , Stevanović Goran , Mioljević Vesna , Inđić Nikola , Velebit Branko , Zervos Marcus
Published: July 2015

In this study the distribution of species and antimicrobial resistance among vancomycin resistant enterococci (VRE) recovered from clinical specimens obtained from five hospitals in Belgrade was analyzed. Strains were further characterized by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to investigate the presence of vanA and vanB genes and pathogenicity factor genes. Identification of 194 VRE isolates revealed 154 Enterococcus faecium, 21 Enterococcus faecalis, 10 Enterococcus raffinosus and 9 Enterococcus gallinarum. This study revealed existence of 8 major clones of VRE. PCR determined vanA gene to be present in all of the VRE studied. Esp and hyl genes were present in 29.22% and 27.92% of E. faecium, respectively, and in 76.19% and 0 of E. faecalis, respectively. Esp and hyl genes were not found more frequently in members of predominant clones of E. faecium than in single isolates; nor was their presence connected to invasiveness.
Diversity and ecological tolerance of bacteria isolated from the rhizosphere of halophyton plants living nearby Kiskunság soda ponds, Hungary
Authors: Borsodi Andrea K. , Bárány Ágnes , Krett Gergely , Márialigeti Károly , Szili-Kovács Tibor
Published: July 2015

Many halophytes and halophilic microorganisms are capable to adapt to the extremities of saline habitats. This study reveals the taxonomic diversity and ecological tolerance of bacteria isolated from the rhizosphere of three different halophytes (Bolboschoenus maritimus, Puccinellia limosa and Aster tripolium) living in the vicinity of Kiskunság soda ponds. Following a sampling in September 2013, altogether 76 bacterial strains were isolated using two different media. The strains were identified on the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequencing following ARDRA grouping. Salt and pH tolerance of the strains were examined by measuring their growth in broths containing 0–15% NaCl (w/V) and characterized with pH 7–12 values. Among the strains genera of Anaerobacillus, Bacillus and Exiguobacterium (Firmicutes), Agromyces, Isoptericola, Microbacterium, Micrococcus, Nocardiopsis, Nesterenkonia and Streptomyces (Actinobacteria), Halomonas and Idiomarina (Proteobacteria) and Anditalea (Bacteroidetes) were identified. The Bolboschoenus and Puccinellia samples characterized with the highest pH and electric conductivity values were dominated by Bacillus, Halomonas and Nesterenkonia, respectively. The salt tolerance of the bacterial strains was strongly dependent on the sampling location and plant species. In contrast, growth of bacterial strains in broths with alkaline pH values was more balanced. The strains from the Puccinellia sample showed the widest salt and pH tolerance.
Seroprevalence and entomological study on Chikungunya virus at the Croatian littoral
Authors: Vilibic-Cavlek Tatjana , Pem-Novosel Iva , Kaic Bernard , Babić-Erceg Andrea , Kucinar Jasmina , Klobucar Ana , Medic Alan , Pahor Djana , Barac-Juretic Katija , Gjenero-Margan Ira
Published: July 2015

During 2011–2012, a total of 1008 serum samples from randomly selected inhabitants of seven Croatian counties located on the Adriatic Coast were tested for the presence of chikungunya virus (CHIKV) IgG antibodies using indirect immunofluorescence assay.

Nine participants (0.9%) from four counties were found to be seropositive to CHIKV. Seroprevalence varied from 0.5% to 1.8% between counties. Additionally, a total of 3,699 mosquitoes were captured in 126 localities from August 16 to September 24, 2011. Three mosquito species were found: Ae. albopictus (3010/81.4%), Cx. pipiens (688/18.6%) and only one specimen of the Cs. longiareolata. Female mosquitoes (N = 1,748) were pooled. All pools tested negative for CHIKV RNA using a real-time RT-PCR.
Putative dopamine agonist (KB220Z) attenuates lucid nightmares in PTSD patients: Role of enhanced brain reward functional connectivity and homeostasis redeeming joy
Authors: McLaughlin Thomas , Blum Kenneth , Oscar-Berman Marlene , Febo Marcelo , Agan Gozde , Fratantonio James L. , Simpatico Thomas , Gold Mark S.
Published: July 2015

Background

Lucid dreams are frequently pleasant and training techniques have been developed to teach dreamers to induce them. In addition, the induction of lucid dreams has also been used as a way to ameliorate nightmares. On the other hand, lucid dreams may be associated with psychiatric conditions, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Reward Deficiency Syndrome-associated diagnoses. In the latter conditions, lucid dreams can assume an unpleasant and frequently terrifying character.

Case presentations

We present two cases of dramatic alleviation of terrifying lucid dreams in patients with PTSD. In the first case study, a 51-year-old, obese woman, diagnosed with PTSD and depression, had attempted suicide and experienced terrifying lucid nightmares linked to sexual/physical abuse from early childhood by family members including her alcoholic father. Her vivid “bad dreams” remained refractory in spite of 6 months of treatment with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and standard pharmaceutical agents which included prazosin, clonidie and Adderall. The second 39-year-old PTSD woman patient had also suffered from lucid nightmares.

Results

The medication visit notes reveal changes in the frequency, intensity and nature of these dreams after the complex putative dopamine agonist KB220Z was added to the first patient’s regimen. The patient reported her first experience of an extended period of happy dreams. The second PTSD patient, who had suffered from lucid nightmares, was administered KB220Z to attenuate methadone withdrawal symptoms and incidentally reported dreams full of happiness and laughter.

Conclusions

These cases are discussed with reference to the known effects of KB220Z including enhanced dopamine homeostasis and functional connectivity of brain reward circuitry in rodents and humans. Their understanding awaits intensive investigation involving large-population, double-blinded studies.
Striving for Significance
Authors: Krok Dariusz
Published: July 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate whether religiousness and spirituality are associated with meaning in life, and which dimensions of religiousness and spirituality show the closest links with meaning in life. It was assumed that those religious and spiritual dimensions which are most imbued with meaning would be more significant for the presence of meaning than for the search for meaning in life. Two studies were conducted. The results of Study 1 showed that the “religious meaning system” was positively associated with “meaning in life,” with stronger connections for “presence of meaning” than for “search.” As regards “religious coping,” positive coping was positively related to presence and search, whereas negative coping was negatively associated with presence. Positive coping also had positive links with personal meaning, while negative coping had negative relations. In Study 2, overall spirituality was positively linked with search for meaning and personal meaning. Two dimensions of spirituality (harmony and ethical sensitivity) were predictors for presence of meaning, but not for search. These findings suggest that meaning in life is a crucial element of religiousness and spirituality, and is intrinsically contained within their internal structures.
Analytical Modelling and Performability Evaluation of Multi-Channel WLANs with Global Failures
Authors: Kirsal-Ever Yoney , Kirsal Yonal , Ever Enver , Gemikonakli Orhan
Published: July 2015

Wireless local area networks (WLANs) which are based on IEEE 802.11 standard are used widely in existing local area network configurations. IEEE 802.11 offers multiple non-overlapping channels to increase the capacity of the network. There are strong evidences that WLANs are prone to impairments. In order to improve the quality of service (QoS) and to evaluate the performance of WLANs realistically, the availability of the systems should be considered. This paper studies performability evaluation of a multi-channel WLAN using analytical modelling approach. Unlike the existing studies, the failures of the overall system, where a critical function unit fails making all the channels unavailable are considered. A new term is introduced as global failures. It is possible to solve the models considered using matrix geometric method where system parameters and minimal non negative solution R is computed by an iterative method. However spectral expansion method is a well-known alternative where the iterative calculations for solving R is avoided using eigenvalues and eigenvectors. The exact spectral expansion method is employed to obtain performability measures such as mean queue length and blocking probability. Iterative refinements are employed in solution of simultaneous equations.
Automated Test Sequence Optimization Based on the Maze Algorithm and Ant Colony Algorithm
Authors: Zheng Wei , Hu Naiwen
Published: July 2015

With the rapid development of China train operation and control system, validity and safety of behavioral functions of the system have attracted much attention in the railway domain. In this paper, an automated test sequence optimization method was presented from the system functional requirement specification of the high-speed railway. To overcome the local optimum of traditional ant colony algorithm, the maze algorithm is integrated with the ant colony algorithm to achieve the dynamical learning capacity and improve the adaptation capacity to the complex and changeable environment, and therefore, this algorithm can produce the optimal searching results. Several key railway operation scenarios are selected as the representative functional scenarios and Colored Petri Nets (CPN) is used to model the scenarios. After the CPN model is transformed into the extensible markup language (XML) model, the improved ant colony algorithm is employed to generate the optimal sequences. The shortest searching paths are found and the redundant test sequences are reduced based on the natural law of ants foraging. Finally, the Radio Blocking Center (RBC) test platform is designed and used to validate the optimal sequence. Testing results show that the proposed method is able to optimize the test sequences and improve the test efficiency successfully.
An Energy-Efficient and Routing Approach for Position Estimation using Kalman Filter Techniques in Mobile WSNs
Authors: Donoso Yezid , Montoya Germán A. , Solano Fernando
Published: July 2015

Mobile Wireless Sensor Networks is being an attractive field due to its applicability to an increasingly amount of mobile scenarios such as wild monitoring, disaster prevention, object guidance and health monitoring. In addition, since the sensors have limited batteries, data routing has to be planned strategically in order to extend the battery lifetime as much as possible [1] [2]. In this paper, we assume GPS free sensor devices, where considering a predictive technique to estimate the sensor position in a circular trajectory scenario can be useful to know when the sensor will be as close as possible to a sink, and then, help us to reduce the energy consumption by the fact of transmitting data at a short distance respect to the sink. In this paper, we propose an predictive algorithm based on Kalman filter techniques to estimate the proper time at which the sensor is close as much as possible to a sink, in order to reduce the energy consumption in the sensor. Specifically, we propose the usage of two Kalman Filters. One Kalman Filter is used for estimating the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) level based on several control packets received at the sensor device. This RSSI estimation indicates the distance from the mobile sensor device to the sink at a given time. The second Kalman Filter, based on the outputs from the first Kalman Filter, estimates the angular velocity and the angle of the mobile sensor device at a given time. Once this information is processed, it is possible to estimate the mobile sensor position in a circular trajectory in order to determine how much close is the mobile sensor device respect to the sink. In addition, the communication channel noise may affect the packet content, generating non-accurate information measurements at the receptor. For this reason, our proposal is evaluated under different noise channel levels and compared against a traditional technique. Our predictive routing algorithm shows better results in terms of distance accuracy to the sink and energy consumption in noisy communication channels.
Alleviation of Binding Update Re-registration Handoff Latency at Home Agent Failure in MIPv6 Network
Authors: Avelin Diana A. , Sundarakantham K. , Mercy Shalinie S.
Published: July 2015

Home Agent (HA) is an indispensable entity for binding connectivity to route packets between Mobile Node (MN) and Correspondent Node (CN). MIPv6 allows the deployment of redundant HAs to overcome HA failure. Different approaches resolve this issue to recuperate binding association information. This paper compares the effect of handoff latency in various methods and proposes a Reliable HA delivery (RHAD) mechanism to mitigate the Binding Update (BU) registration latency in HA at the time of active HA failure. We use BGP domain in network architecture and apply IBGP protocol to transmit packets between Edge Router (ER) and HA. Both the theoretical evaluation and simulation results reveal that RHAD effectively reduces BU re-registration handoff latency and increases packet delivery ratio.
Restructured Ant Colony Optimization Routing Protocol for Next Generation Network
Authors: Chandramohan B.
Published: July 2015

Wireless network is a major research domain in the past few decades. Wireless network evolves in many forms like cellular communication, ad hoc network, vehicular network, mesh network and sensor network. Next generation network is a recent cellular communication which provides heterogeneous connectivity on cellular communication. The routing in next generation wireless networks is an important research issue which requires many constraints than wired networks. Hence, Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) is applied in this paper for routing in heterogeneous next generation wireless network. The ACO is a swarm intelligence technique which applied for many engineering applications. ACO is an optimal technique for routing and travelling salesman problem. This paper proposed Restructured ACO which contains additional data structures for reducing packet loss and latency. Therefore, the proposed RACO provides higher throughput.
Eggshell and Histology Provide Insight on the Life History of a Pterosaur with Two Functional Ovaries
Authors: WANG XIAOLIN , KELLNER ALEXANDER W. A. , CHENG XIN , JIANG SHUNXING , WANG QIANG , SAYÃO JULIANA M. , RODRIGUES TAISSA , COSTA FABIANA R. , LI NING , MENG XI , ZHOU ZHONGHE
Published: July 2015

The counterpart of a previously described non-pterodactyloid pterosaur with an egg revealed the presence of a second egg inside the body cavity of this gravid female. It clearly shows that pterosaurs had two functional oviducts and demonstrates that the reduction of one oviduct was not a prerequisite for developing powered flight, at least in this group. Compositional analysis of one egg suggests the lack of a hard external layer of calcium carbonate. Histological sections of one femur lack medullary bone and further demonstrate that this pterosaur reached reproductive maturity before skeletal maturity. This study shows that pterosaurs laid eggs even smaller than previously thought and had a reproductive strategy more similar to basal reptiles than to birds. Whether pterosaurs were highly precocial or needed parental care is still open to debate.
Correlação entre o número de fêmeas e o número de juvenis de Tylenchulus semipenetrans em amostras de solo e raiz de laranjeira 'Pera Rio' enxertada em limoeiro 'Cravo'
Authors: Gabia Adriana Aparecida , Santos Thiago Rodrigo Gonçalves dos , Pogetto Mario Henrique Ferreira do Amaral Dal , Wilcken Silvia Renata Siciliano
Published: July 2015

Várias espécies de fitonematoides já foram relatadas em pomares de citros, porém poucas são consideradas praga-chave para a cultura. No Brasil, Tylenchulus semipenetrans é o principal nematoide em citros, amplamente disseminado nos pomares brasileiros. Diferentes variáveis são utilizadas para determinar o nível de dano desse nematoide. Sendo assim, esse experimento teve por objetivo correlacionar o número de fêmeas com o número de juvenis de T. semipenetrans em amostras de solo e raiz de laranja 'Pera Rio' enxertada em limoeiro 'Cravo'. O trabalho foi realizado em pomar de 14 anos, localizado na Fazenda São Gabriel, distrito de Vitoriana, município de Botucatu - SP. A coleta das amostras foi realizada em setembro de 2011, numa profundidade de 0-30 cm, em 10 plantas sem sintomas, 10 com sintomas e as adjacentes das plantas sintomáticas, totalizando 60 plantas. Para extração dos nematoides presentes no solo seguiu-se a metodologia de flutuação em centrífuga e para a dos nematoides nas raízes seguiu-se a técnica do liquidificador e centrifugação. Para contagem das fêmeas, 1 g de raiz de cada amostra foi colorida. Os dados de nematoide no solo, nematoide na raiz, soma de nematoide no solo e raiz e fêmeas por grama de raiz foram submetidos à análise de correlação de Pearson e posteriormente à análise de matriz de correlações. Dentre os dados analisados, pode-se verificar uma forte correlação entre o número de juvenis presentes na raiz e a soma do número de juvenis no solo e na raiz. Entretanto, não foi constatado correlação desta variável com o número de fêmeas na raiz e o número de juvenis no solo. O número de fêmeas na raiz não apresentou correlação com nenhuma das outras variáveis analisadas. Conclui-se que a melhor variável para determinar a população de T. semipenetrans é o número de juvenis por 10 g de raiz.
Estimativas de capacidades de combinação em cebola para resistência a raíz rosada e caracteres agronômicos
Authors: Santos Ricardo Lima dos , Pavan Marcelo Agenor , Silva Norberto da , Gioria Ricardo , Souza Neto Israel Leite de
Published: July 2015

Com o objetivo de estimar as capacidades de combinação para resistência a raiz rosada e caracteres agronômicos em cebola (Allium cepa L.), realizou-se o presente estudo em esquema de cruzamento dialélico parcial. Para tal, utilizaram-se dois grupos de linhagens parcialmente endogâmicas como genitores. O grupo I constituiu-se de cinco linhagens parentais femininas, macho estéreis, originárias de uma População Tropical Brasileira, selecionadas para plantio no verão. O grupo II constituiu-se de dez linhagens parentais masculinas, que em sua maioria são originárias de populações de cebola Crioula, obtidas por meio de autofecundações sucessivas e mantidas através de seleção massal dentro das linhagens. Os caracteres avaliados foram: resistência a raiz rosada em escala de notas de 1 a 5, vigor foliar, arquitetura foliar, número de folhas, altura de folha (cm), número total de bulbos e peso total de bulbos (kg). Utilizou-se o delineamento de blocos completos com tratamentos ao acaso com três repetições. Houve ação dos efeitos aditivos para resistência a raiz rosada, verificando-se também alta a magnitude de efeitos não aditivos em algumas combinações, observou-se o mesmo comportamento genético para outros caracteres agronômicos de interesse. Deste modo, é possível realizar seleção intrapopulacional com os parentais utilizados no presente trabalho e obter híbridos com bom nível de resistência a raiz rosada e boas características agronômicas.
GFP-fluorescent protein on the study of blister spot in coffee plants
Authors: Armesto Cecilia , Martins-Maia Fernanda Gonçalves , Monteiro Fernando Pereira , Abreu Mário Sobral de
Published: July 2015

In Brazil, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides is associated with a complex of symptoms in coffee culture. Although this pathogen had its pathogenesis observed and identified, its importance has still been questioned due to its several endophytic forms, raising doubts as to the real importance of the pathosystem. The aim of this study was to demonstrate, by using an isolate transformed with the gene gfp, the infection and colonization capability of C. gloeosporioides in coffee seedlings. After the fourth day of inoculation, manifestation of symptoms as punctual necrosis could be observed, which progressed during the evaluation period, culminating in the death of seedlings. Epifluorescence microscopy confirmed the presence of the pathogen in the seedlings, as well as the visualization of internal colonization of tissues, acervulus formation and conidium production, confirming that it was responsible for the observed symptoms.
Meanings of quality of life held by patients with colorectal cancer in the context of chemotherapy
Authors: Buetto Luciana Scatralhe , Zago Marcia Maria Fontão
Published: July 2015

OBJECTIVE: this study's aim was to interpret the meanings assigned to quality of life by patients with colorectal cancer undergoing chemotherapy.METHOD: the ethnographic method and the medical anthropology theoretical framework were used. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and participant observations with 16 men and women aged from 43 to 75 years old undergoing chemotherapy in a university hospital.RESULTS: the meanings and senses describe biographical ruptures, loss of normality of life, personal and social suffering, and the need to respond to chemotherapy's side effects; chemotherapy is seen as a transitional stage for a cure. Quality of life is considered unsatisfactory because the treatment imposes personal and social limitations and QoL is linked to resuming normal life.CONCLUSIONS: the meanings show the importance of considering sociocultural aspects in the conceptualization and assessment of quality of life.
Spatial analysis of infection by the human immunodeficiency virus among pregnant women
Authors: Holanda Eliane Rolim de , Galvão Marli Teresinha Gimeniz , Pedrosa Nathália Lima , Paiva Simone de Sousa , Almeida Rosa Lívia Freitas de
Published: July 2015

OBJECTIVES: to analyze the spatial distribution of reported cases of pregnant women infected by the human immunodeficiency virus and to identify the urban areas with greater social vulnerability to the infection among pregnant women.METHOD: ecological study, developed by means of spatial analysis techniques of area data. Secondary data were used from the Brazilian National Disease Notification System for the city of Recife, Pernambuco. Birth data were obtained from the Brazilian Information System on Live Births and socioeconomic data from the 2010 Demographic Census.RESULTS: the presence of spatial self-correlation was verified. Moran's Index was significant for the distribution. Clusters were identified, considered as high-risk areas, located in grouped neighborhoods, with equally high infection rates among pregnant women. A neighborhood located in the Northwest of the city was distinguished, considered in an epidemiological transition phase.CONCLUSION: precarious living conditions, as evidenced by the indicators illiteracy, absence of prenatal care and poverty, were relevant for the risk of vertical HIV transmission, converging to the grouping of cases among disadvantaged regions.
The Living, Dynamic and Complex Environment Care in Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Backes Marli Terezinha Stein , Erdmann Alacoque Lorenzini , Büscher Andreas
Published: July 2015

OBJECTIVE: to understand the meaning of the Adult Intensive Care Unit environment of care, experienced by professionals working in this unit, managers, patients, families and professional support services, as well as build a theoretical model about the Adult Intensive Care Unit environment of care.METHOD: Grounded Theory, both for the collection and for data analysis. Based on theoretical sampling, we carried out 39 in-depth interviews semi-structured from three different Adult Intensive Care Units.RESULTS: built up the so-called substantive theory "Sustaining life in the complex environment of care in the Intensive Care Unit". It was bounded by eight categories: "caring and continuously monitoring the patient" and "using appropriate and differentiated technology" (causal conditions); "Providing a suitable environment" and "having relatives with concern" (context); "Mediating facilities and difficulties" (intervenienting conditions); "Organizing the environment and managing the dynamics of the unit" (strategy) and "finding it difficult to accept and deal with death" (consequences).CONCLUSION: confirmed the thesis that "the care environment in the Intensive Care Unit is a living environment, dynamic and complex that sustains the life of her hospitalized patients".