bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selection of temperature and power parameters for multi-modular lunar jet penetrator
Authors: ZAGOVORCHEV Vladimir А. , TUSHAVINA Olga V.
Published: August 2019

The questions and the particularity of the choice of design parameters of multi-module lunar jet penetrators are considered. A constructive layout of the penetrator is proposed and the advantages of a multi-modular design are presented. In particular, the limitation on the depth of penetration of the reactive penetrator of the standard scheme, associated with the characteristics of the flow of combustion products from the nozzle into a variable length channel left after the passage of the apparatus, is described. An algorithm is suggested for solving the problem of design parameters of multi-module lunar jet penetrators, which is based on the same methods for finding design parameters of single-module penetrators. Nonetheless, in this case, among the main design parameters that uniquely determine the appearance of both individual modules and the apparatus as a whole, in addition to pressure in the combustion chamber, elongation, pressure relationships at the nozzle and in the chamber, engine running time in air, structural mass and angle, contents of the head including, multiple modules (or sections of the remote control) of the device. By the above method, the calculation of the gas-dynamic parameters for the operation process in solid propellant rocket engines was carried out. Critical temperatures of solid fuel and pressure in the combustion chamber are limited by the ones leading to destruction of the engine and the penetrator.
Development of pre-flight planning algorithms for the functional-program prototype of a distributed intellectual control system of unmanned flying vehicle groups
Authors: EVDOKIMENKOV Veniamin N. , KOZOREZ Dmitriy A. , KRASILSHCHIKOV Mikhail N.
Published: August 2019

In article presents algorithmic for a reconnaissance and combat unmanned flying vehicle (UFV) group pre-flight planning. The algorithms, which we elaborated, includes: algorithm, involved for mission target decision, membership selection. Discussing algorithm is based on analytical probabilistic models, providing evaluation of UAF group efficiency operation, considering UAF reliability as well as on board navigation and weapon facility performances; algorithm of UAF routes at the stages of group motion to meeting point and further movement to target area. Developed algorithm provides definition both direction and velocity of UAF, considering actual environment condition and dangerous of UAF recognition by radar, acoustic or infrared facilities of enemy; algorithms of UAF group operation scheduling at the mission target area.
Examining the health and well-being experiences of singers in popular music
Authors: Heyman Lucinda , Perkins Rosie , Araújo Liliana S.
Published: August 2019

This study investigated the health and well-being experiences of professional singers in popular music. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) of semi-structured interviews with five professional singers identified three main themes: (1) mental and physical experiences of health and support, (2) positive musical experiences and (3) barriers to health and well-being. Participants perceived health as important to their careers and viewed it as both physical and mental in nature. The singers relied on family and industry peers for support, whilst experiencing mental health challenges and physical health problems in the context of an emotionally intense landscape. Positive musical experiences involved the self-expression of songwriting, live music performance and relationships with fans, and barriers to health and well-being included touring, commercial challenges and a perceived lack of support. The findings suggest a need for increased awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by singers in popular music.
Bach Re-Invention: Bridging classical and popular music in the college classroom
Authors: Sole Meryl
Published: August 2019

This article highlights a composition project from an undergraduate musicianship course at a private liberal arts college. For the project, students studied a Prelude by J. S. Bach and utilized their analysis as a framework to compose new melodies. Instead of writing in the style of Bach, many students chose to transform their compositions into popular music styles. The study discusses the students’ processes and addresses how the new compositions were largely representative of popular music in a range of styles including heavy metal, punk, surf and rap. The unexpected transformations became an opportunity to implement a responsive pedagogy that became a bridge between classical and popular music. Implications for teaching are presented and include discussion of the use of popular music in the undergraduate theory classroom.
INFLUÊNCIA DO PERFIL DO COLEGIADO NA PRIORIZAÇÃO DE AÇÕES AMBIENTAIS NOS TERRITÓRIOS DA CIDADANIA DE SERGIPE
Authors: Omena André Luiz Rodrigues de Albuquerque , Bitencourt Daniela Venceslau
Published: August 2019

O estado de Sergipe possui quatro Territórios da Cidadania (Alto Sertão, Baixo São Francisco, Sertão Ocidental e Sul Sergipano), cujas ações estratégicas constam de seus respectivos Planos Territoriais de Desenvolvimento Rural Sustentável (PTDRS), elaborados pelo Colegiado Territorial (CT), composto por representantes das três esferas governamentais e da sociedade.Considerando que tal documento se revela como instrumento capaz de expressar não apenas as particularidades locais, mas também os interesses e visão de quem o constrói, este artigo propõe uma reflexão sobre a relação entre o perfil dos membros dos CT e a contribuição dos PTDRS no que diz respeito à questão ambiental. Os dados obtidos permitem afirmar que as ações mais estruturadas nessa dimensão estão presentes nos territórios onde os representantes possuem algum tipo de engajamento e prática a ela relacionada.
A EDUCAÇÃO AMBIENTAL NA FORMAÇÃO DO PEDAGOGO: a dimensão ambiental no curso de Licenciatura Plena em Pedagogia da UFPB – João Pessoa
Authors: Lopes Theoffillo Da Silva , Abílio Francisco José Pegado
Published: August 2019

Este artigo é proveniente de uma pesquisa que buscou investigar a dimensão ambiental inserida no curso de Pedagogia da Universidade Federal da Paraíba – Campus I. Para isso, foi utilizada uma metodologia qualitativa de abordagem documental/bibliográfica para análise do Projeto Político Pedagógico do curso, assim como também das ementas e programas das disciplinas do mesmo. Foram realizados ainda questionários semi-estruturados com professores e alunos do curso, a fim de assim, identificar como a dimensão ambiental vem sendo inserida no processo educativo de formação desses educadores e em que relação ela se estabelece entre o planejamento, a prática docente e o profissional formado.
ANÁLISE ESPACIAL E EPIDEMIOLÓGICA DE HEPATITES B E C E ÍNDICE DE DESENVOLVIMENTO HUMANO MUNICIPAL, NO ESTADO DO PARÁ
Authors: Gonçalves Nelson Veiga , Vieira Dayseanne Costa , Miranda Claudia do Socorro Carvalho , Palácios Vera Regina da Cunha Menezes , Costa Simone Beverly Nascimento da , Guedes Juan Andrade , Santos Bruno de Oliveira , Costa Rodrigo Junior Farias da , E Silva Sheila Cristina Martins , Oliveira Rafael Aleixo Coelho de
Published: August 2019

Considerando as hepatites B e C um grave problema de saúde pública no Brasil, este estudo objetivou analisar a distribuição espacial e socioeconômica destas doenças, nos municípios atendidos por três Centros Regionais de Saúde (CRS), da Secretaria de Saúde Pública do Estado do Pará, de 2010 a 2014. Foi realizado um estudo descritivo e transversal com dados  do Ministério da Saúde e do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística. As análises epidemiológicas mostraram que o 1º CRS notificou maior número de casos, sobretudo em 2012 e 2014. O perfil dos indivíduos mais acometidos foi sexo masculino (58,9%), pardos (65,1%), adultos (65,6%), baixa escolaridade (27,3%) e residentes em zona urbana (93,0%). Os fatores de riscos mais significativos nos três CRS foram as doenças sexualmente transmissíveis e uso de medicamentos injetáveis. A análise espacial entre os parâmetros do IDHM e da taxa de incidência mostrou uma autocorrelação inversa entre essas duas variáveis. Foi observado que áreas com IDHM médio e baixo apresentaram altas taxas de incidência. As análises geradas foram eficazes para construir um cenário epidemiológico contextualizado das hepatites B e C. Ressaltamos a necessidade de expansão de programas de controle destas doenças nas áreas estudadas.
ESTUDO SOBRE A INFLUÊNCIA DE VARIÁVEIS METEREOLÓGICAS NOS CASOS DE ACIDENTES POR ANIMAIS PEÇONHENTOS EM LAGES – SC
Authors: Teixeira Schier Daiane , Rafaeli Lemos Mayara , Guimarães Camargo Campos Claudia , Cardoso Josiane Teresinha
Published: August 2019

A incidência de acidentes por animais peçonhentos se constitui como a segunda causa de notificação epidemiológica no Brasil. Em 2016, do total de casos notificados, 16% correspondem à região sul. Sendo assim, com o objetivo de analisar a possível relação entre os fatores meteorológicos e os casos de notificação de acidentes por animais peçonhentos no município de Lages-SC entre os anos de 2011 a 2017, buscou-se dados a respeito do número de notificações, além de informações sobre a precipitação e temperatura do ar para o período de interesse. As informações relativas aos casos de acidentes por animais peçonhentos foram obtidas pelos indicadores compulsórios do SINAN, enquanto que os dados meteorológicos foram fornecidos pela EPAGRI/CIRAM. O coeficiente de correlação de Pearson foi calculado utilizando-se o software Excel, em que se verificou que os acidentes por animais peçonhentos apresentaram correlação com a temperatura do ar para todos os anos de estudo, sendo o coeficiente mais alto obtido para o ano de 2013 (r = 0,75). Além disso, os casos possuem maiores frequências para janeiro, sente este  o mês com temperatura média do ar mais elevada. Dessa forma, torna-se evidente que medidas de cunho preventivo necessitam ser tomadas para diminuir os registros de acidentes por animais peçonhentos, principalmente nos meses de temperaturas mais altas, em que a população possui maior risco de contato com os mesmos e, portanto, deve ser alertada para tomar maiores precauções neste período.
SABERES TRADICIONAIS, BIODIVERSIDADE, PRÁTICAS INTEGRATIVAS E COMPLEMENTARES: O USO DE PLANTAS MEDICINAIS NO SUS
Authors: Castro Marta Rocha , Figueiredo Fábio Fonseca
Published: August 2019

O artigo tem como objetivo apresentar o uso de plantas medicinais no âmbito da Política Nacional de Práticas Integrativas e Complementares implementada no Sistema Único de Saúde desde 2006. Realizamos uma ampla revisão bibliográfica do tema, sobretudo na área da geografia da saúde, bem como a consulta a documentos produzidos e distribuídos pelo Governo Federal, através do Ministério da Saúde. Conforme resultados, a prática do uso das plantas medicinais é fortemente recomendada pelos organismos internacionais e a sua institucionalização através Política Nacional de Plantas Medicinais e Fitoterápicos valoriza sobremaneira os saberes tradicionais no cuidado à saúde adquiridos ao longo dos séculos. O fato das pesquisas cientificas comprovarem através de métodos da medicina moderna a eficiência no uso das plantas medicinais reforça tais saberes no uso dessas plantas nas unidades atenção à saúde básica. Outro aspecto satisfatório é proporcionar um maior conhecimento da biodiversidade do país haja vista que as plantas utilizadas no tratamento a doentes serem regionalizadas. Assim, o uso das plantas medicinais na atenção à saúde básica implica numa forma de tratamento médico diferenciado da medicina praticada atualmente, que se baseia amplamente em métodos cientificistas onde a tecnologia se sobressai à prática médica fundamentada na precaução e prevenção.
REGIONALISMO PRESENTE NOS CARDÁPIOS DA ALIMENTAÇÃO ESCOLAR NO MUNICÍPIO DE CAMPINORTE- GOIÁS
Authors: Guimarães Eduardo Policário Borges , De Souza Marques Juliana Menara , Silva Lucas Luiz de Lima , Cardoso Cleia Graziele Lima do Valle
Published: August 2019

Introdução: O Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar – PNAE possui uma magnitude e revela a importância da atuação do nutricionista para resgate da cultura e hábitos alimentares regionais. Objetivo: analisar a presença do regionalismo na alimentação escolar do município de Campinorte-GO. Metodologia: análise documental dos cardápios dos anos de 2016 e 2017 ofertados pela rede municipal de ensino para analisar a presença de preparações regionais. Além disso, foi escolhido um cardápio mensal para realização de análise pela ferramenta fornecida pelo Fundo Nacional para o Desenvolvimento da Educação – FNDE, o Índice de Qualidade da Coordenação de Segurança Alimentar Nutricional – IQ COSAN. Resultados: observou-se que todos os cardápios foram elaborados por nutricionista, sendo que de 375 preparações servidas, somente 25,6% foram consideradas regionais após análise de materiais técnicos do Ministério da Saúde sobre alimentos regionais. Identificou-se cinco preparações consideradas regionais: arroz Maria Isabel, canjica, feijão tropeiro, galinhada e quibebe. Conclusão: Percebe-se que ainda é deficiente a inclusão de preparações regionais no cardápio para cumprir as exigências do PNAE. O estudo leva a concluir que o nutricionista é o profissional melhor qualificado para realização das diretrizes do programa PNAE estabelecendo a valorização do regionalismo na elaboração dos cardápios.
¿Cómo y por qué estudiar la relatividad de la simultaneidad en la escuela secundaria?
Authors: Muñoz Guzmán Edwin Alberto , Otero María Rita , Arlego Marcelo
Published: August 2019

Analizamos los resultados obtenidos al poner a prueba dos situaciones que enseñan la relatividad de la simultaneidad en la escuela secundaria. Las situaciones proponen el uso de la suma clásica de velocidades y su no uso, para tomar conciencia de las implicaciones de aplicar conjuntamente el primer y segundo postulado relativista. Se analizan sucesos que ocurren en sistemas de referencia inerciales en movimiento relativo, donde la simultaneidad se pierde según el observador que está en el andén, y no según el que viaja en el tren, a diferencia del conocido problema propuesto por Einstein reproducido mayoritariamente en los textos. Se analizan los protocolos obtenidos en cuatro cursos de grado 11 (15-16 años) con 128 estudiantes de un colegio público de la ciudad de Medellín. Se identifican los invariantes operatorios que utilizan en ambas situaciones, así como las argumentaciones que ofrecen. Los resultados indican que las situaciones propuestas producirían la emergencia y la toma de conciencia de invariantes operatorios vinculados a la relatividad de Galileo, los cuales permitirían conceptualizar la relatividad de la simultaneidad en la escuela secundaria.
Analysis of publications of a scientific periodic: evaluation by the tool SPC
Authors: Rodrigues Paulo Cesar Chagas , Silveira Franco da , Santos Bruno Miranda dos , Molinar Filipe
Published: August 2019

The work consists of analyzing the historical evolution of an international scientific journal, which is characterized by publications via the web and the Open Journal System (OJS) software. In data collection it was necessary to use Google analytics between the years 2014 and 2017, based on the access / session variables and their respective averages. By means of Excel, a statistical analysis was performed based on Statistical Process Control (SPC). The research method selected was the case study, with data and information complemented by bibliographical and documentary research. As a result, the research identified that the international scientific journal presents mostly male users with Brazilian or foreign nationality. Moreover, in the stratification of the journal users by sex and titration it was possible to perceive that doctors are responsible for the greater number of records, both male and female. Finally, there is an increase in the number of views in the international scientific journal, thus confirming that there is a significant importance among academic researchers in seeking access to publications made available via the web.
Recycled concrete artifacts: towards sustainability of civil construction
Authors: Serpa Nilo Costa , Fernandes Gisele Alves , Dayrell Mariana Lucia , Santoro Aline
Published: August 2019

Present article discusses the production of concrete artifacts that use in their composition recycling aggregates of Solid Waste from Construction and Demolition (SWCD). The study was designed as experimental / comparative, with destructive tests of proof bodies made with recycled aggregates (test group) and with traditional aggregates (control group). Subsequent statistical analysis of the data collected from the comparison between these groups was conducted. The optimal dosage for artifacts produced with recycled aggregates was found, demonstrating that the choice of recycled materials could be an economical and environmentally sustainable solution in the context of the eco-innovations.
Embedded minimal surfaces of finite topology
Authors: Meeks III William H. , Pérez Joaquín
Published: August 2019

In this paper we prove that a complete, embedded minimal surface
M in

ℝ
3

{\mathbb{R}^{3}}

with finite topology and compact boundary (possibly
empty) is conformally a compact Riemann surface

M
¯

{\overline{M}}

with
boundary punctured in a finite number of interior points and that
M can be represented in terms of meromorphic data on its conformal
completion

M
¯

{\overline{M}}

. In particular, we demonstrate that M is
a minimal surface of finite type and describe how this property
permits a classification of the asymptotic behavior of M.
Modeling of the harmonization method for executing a multi-unit construction project
Authors: Tomczak Michał
Published: August 2019

One of the key problems in managing the realization of a construction project is the selection of appropriate working crews and coordinating their activities in a way that ensures the highest degree of implementation of defined goals (minimizing the project duration and/or reducing downtime and related costs). Most of the existing methods of work harmonization used in construction industry allow obtaining the desired results only in relation to the organization of the processes realization in repetitive linear projects. In case of realization of non-linear construction objects or construction units, it is usually necessary to choose between the reduction of the project implementation time and maintaining the continuity of crews work on the units. It was found that there is a lack in the literature of developed method enabling harmonization of crews’ work, while minimizing the downtime at work and the duration of the entire project taking into account additional constraints, e.g. the need to not exceed the deadlines for the realization of the project stages.

The article presents the concept of a multi-criteria optimization method of harmonizing the execution of non-linear processes of a multi-unit construction project in deterministic conditions. It will enable the reduction of realization time and downtimes in work, taking into account the preferences of the decision maker regarding the relevance of the optimization criteria. A mathematical model for optimizing the selection of crews and order of completion of units in multi-unit construction projects was also developed. In order to present the possibility of usage of the developed concept, an example of the optimal selection of crews and their work schedule was solved and presented. The proposed method may allow for better use of the existing production potential of construction enterprises and ensure synchronization of the crews employed during the work, especially in the case of difficulties in acquiring qualified staff in construction industry.
The GMO Pipeline, Import Bans and Asynchronous Approvals – The Impact on Agricultural Trade
Authors: Pavleska Marija , Kerr William A
Published: August 2019

The divergence in approaches to regulation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) among countries is a contentious policy issue that has externalities that inhibit trade in agricultural products. One result is that approvals of GMO events is internationally asynchronous. Countries whose approval processes are slower or more stringent often impose import bans or other non-tariff barriers on imports of GM products they have rejected or have yet to approve. These trade barriers have been the subject of considerable investigation. As more and more GMO events are approved in some countries, but not in others, the probability of unintended mingling of GM crops in shipments of non-GM crops increases. Shipments of non-GM crops with a low level presence of non approved GM crops are routinely rejected by importing countries. This growing disruption to trade has not received a great deal of attention. This paper uses information from the GMO research and commercialization pipeline to estimate the potential impact of increases in mingling on international trade flows using a CGE model – GTAP. The results suggest that the growing potential for mingling will have a considerable detrimental impact on trade flows and, hence, tolerance levels should be an important question for multilateral trade negotiations.
Next generation sequencing-guided anti-infective therapy of large liver abscess due to Edwardsiella tarda: a case report
Authors: Zhu Zhong-Zheng , Zhu Jiayi , Zhu Kexuan , Wang Hui , Xu Qing , Bai Chong
Published: August 2019

Background

Liver abscess is a potentially fatal disease, however identification of its causative pathogen remains challenging, which is crucial for guiding appropriate antibiotic therapy. To the best of our knowledge, the use of plasma next-generation sequencing (NGS) based pathogen analysis in patients with liver abscess has never been reported.

Case presentation

We report a case with large liver abscess due toEdwardsiella tardathat was diagnosed by the plasma-based NGS assay within 24 h. After a 2-week single agent anti-infection therapy, the patient completely recovered. A second NGS assay following anti-infection therapy failed to detect the pathogenic DNA. Follow-up magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the abdomen on 1 month and 3 months showed a gradually decrease in size of the liver abscess, and the 6-month MRI showed that the abscess disappeared completely.

Conclusions

Our data indicated that the plasma NGS test can sensitively and minimal-invasively detect pathogens within a clinically actionable timeframe, and antibiotic alone is an alternative to first-line treatment for large liver abscess with the aid of NGS for accurate detection of the pathogenic bacterial genome.
Range extension and phylogenetic relationships of Akodon josemariarguedasi (Rodentia: Cricetidae) with comments on the aerosus species group
Authors: Ruelas Dennisse , Pacheco Víctor , Jiménez Carlos F.
Published: August 2019

The José María Arguedas’ grass mouse, Akodon josemariarguedasi, is currently known from the central Yungas of Peru, ranging from the right (south) side of the Río Huallaga in Huánuco Department (in the north) to Junín Department (in the south); its phylogenetic affinities are unknown. We collected four specimens from Quintao, Tayacaja, Huancavelica Department allocated to this species, extending the species range 144 km farther south from its previous known distribution; and inferred the phylogenetic relationships of this species within the aerosus species group based on molecular analyses of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. We confirm that A. josemariarguedasi is a member of the aerosus species group and it is a sister taxon to Akodon mollis “Ancash” and then to Akodon torques. Also, we found that Akodon kotosh is closely related to Akodon orophilus, and not A. josemariarguedasi. Finally, we confirm that Akodon budini and Akodon siberiae are also members of the aerosus species group.
Crystal structure of (1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane)palladium(II) tetracyanoplatinate(II), C14H24N8PdPt
Authors: Ha Kwang
Published: August 2019

C14H24N8PdPt, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 9.0747(3) Å, b = 8.3376(3) Å, c = 14.4578(6) Å, β = 123.8260(10)°, V = 908.73(6) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt(F) = 0.0115, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0235, T = 223 K.
Carbon dot-based fluorometric optical sensors: an overview
Authors: Bagheri Samira , TermehYousefi Amin , Mehrmashhadi Javad
Published: August 2019

Fluorescent carbon dots (CDs) are a new class of carbon nanomaterials and have demonstrated excellent optical properties, good biocompatibility, great aqueous solubility, low cost, and simple synthesis. Since their discovery, various synthesis methods using different precursors were developed, which were mainly classified as top-down and bottom-up approaches. CDs have presented many applications, and this review article mainly focuses on the development of CD-based fluorescent sensors. The sensing mechanisms, sensor design, and sensing properties to various targets are summarized. Broad ranges of detection, including temperature, pH, DNA, antibiotics, cations, cancer cells, and antibiotics, have been discussed. In addition, the challenges and future directions for CDs as sensing materials are also presented.
GC-MS analysis and biological activities of Thymus vulgaris and Mentha arvensis essential oil
Authors: Ahmad Khan Ashfaq , Shoaib Amjad Muhammad , Saboon
Published: August 2019

Background

Essential oils are chemical products produced by odoriferous glands from a variety of plants. These essential oil have many health benefits i.e. antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities. So due to these medicinal properties present study was designed to analyze essential oil of Thymus vulgaris and Mentha arvensis for their chemical composition and biological activities.

Materials and methods

Essential oil from these plants were extracted by hydrodistillation method, and analyzed by GC-MS. To test the microbial activity of these oil disk diffusion method and micro wells method were used. For free radical scavenging DPPH assay was used. However total phenolic content was measured by colorimetric method.

Results

The GC-MS analysis of T. vulgaris oil showed the presence of 47 chemical compounds among which thymol, terpinene, p-cymene and carvacrol were major. However essential oil of M. arvensis showed the presence of 28 constituents, among which the Menthone, Menthol, Isomenthone, Eucalyptol, neo-Menthol, cis-Piperitone oxide, Linalool, Thymol, Limonene, and α-Phellandrene were major. Essential oil from both these plant tested for antimicrobial activity showed that the T. vulgaris oil was effective against seven bacterial strains and the essential oil of M. arvensis was effective against six bacterial strain. The antioxidant activity of both samples by DPPH assay which showed positive result.

Conclusion

As both species showed the presence of active components, positive microbial activities, and antioxidant activity so, research should be carried on for further biological activities of these oil for betterment of living beings.
The circulating level of interleukins 6 and 18 in ischemic and idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Iravani Saadi Mahdiyar , Babaee Beigi Mohammad Ali , Ghavipishe Maryam , Tahamtan Maryam , Geramizadeh Bita , Zare Abdolhossein , Yaghoobi Ramin
Published: August 2019

Introduction: By aging population, the heart failure and its life-threatening complications have become an enormous issue in public health. Regarding the inflammation as a major contributing pathological factor, the determination of most important inflammatory targets for immunomodulation is a problematic puzzle in the treatment of heart failure patients and the inflammatory pathways primarily involved in different underlying conditions contributing to heart failure can be an area which is worthy of focused research. Considering the dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) as a relatively high-incident disease leading to heart failure, the aim of this study is to determine the difference in the expression level of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-18 in patients with ischemic and idiopathic DCM. Methods: 39 non-diabetic patients with ischemic and 37 ones with idiopathic DCM were enrolled in the study. 48 healthy individuals were also considered as control group. For quantitative determination of the mRNA expression level of IL-6 and IL-18 genes, an in-house- SYBR Green real-time PCR was used and Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) was considered as internal control gene. The left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was calculated by 2D echocardiographic assessment. Data were finally analyzed via SPSS statistical software version 19.0 using independent t test and 2-∆∆Ct method and P<0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: The IL-6 was significantly higher expressed in patients with ischemic and idiopathic DCM than in healthy controls (274.3 and 168.8 times, respectively, both P values <0.001). The same higher expression of IL-18 was observed in ischemic DCM (48.5 times) and idiopathic DCM (45.2 times) compared with healthy individuals (both P values <0.001). Conclusion: Both ischemic and idiopathic DCM associates with IL-6 and IL-18 overexpression. However, no significant difference was observed between these two subtypes of DCM in either interleukin expression level. There is certainly need to further studies for evaluating the uniformity of results and also assessing other molecules in determining their roles in pathophysiology and probable utility for management.
Myocardial contractile dispersion: A new marker for the severity of cirrhosis?
Authors: Moaref Alireza , Zamirian Mahmood , Mirzaei Hamed , Attar Amin , Nasrollahi Elham , Bahramvand Yaser
Published: August 2019

Introduction: Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) develops in about half of all cirrhotic patients, affecting the long-term morbidity and mortality. Although some studies have shown an increased QT-interval in cirrhotic patients, no evidences of myocardial contractile and QT dispersion (QTd) changes are available. This study aimed to compare myocardial contractile dispersion (MCd), using tissue Doppler imaging (TDI), as well as QTd between cirrhotic patients and healthy individuals, investigating their associations with cirrhosis severity. Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on patients with confirmed liver cirrhosis and healthy individuals. Participants with structural heart disease, heart ventricular pacing, electrolyte abnormalities, using drugs affecting QT interval were excluded. All individuals underwent 2D echocardiography, and TDI by vivid E9 echo machine. MCd and QTd were considered as main outcomes. Chi-square, independent-sample t test, and Pearson correlation test, were used for statistical analyses by SPPS version 17.0. P value <0:05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Sixty participants (40 male/20 female) with a mean age of 40.1 ± 7.1 years in two groups of cirrhotic patients (n=30) and healthy individuals (n=30) were studied. Both groups were statistically similar in terms of age (P = 0.31) and gender (P = 0.39). MCd and QTd of cirrhotic patients were significantly higher than healthy individuals (MCd: 41.0 ± 26.8 versus 27.6 ± 18.1; P = 0.028; and QTd: 37.0  ±  22.1 versus 25.3 ± 8.9; P = 0.010). Cirrhotic patients with MELD score <15 had a lower MCd in comparison to score ≥15 (29.2 ± 13.8 versus 50.0 ± 31.1, P = 0.034). Conclusion: Cirrhosis was associated with increased MCd, assessed by TDI. Also, MCd and QTd were associated with a higher MELD score. According to the results, it seems that MCd and QTd might be useful predictor of ventricular arrhythmia and negative prognostic factor in cirrhotic patients.
A Vibration-Based Traffic Monitoring System Using Distributed Optical Sensing Technology
Authors: Zeng Mengyuan , Zhao Hongduo , Wu Difei , Chen Hui , Cai Juewei
Published: August 2019

Effective traffic management requires use of monitoring technologies to extract traffic parameters that describe the characteristics of vehicles. This article presents a vibration-based traffic monitoring system to detect traffic parameters comprehensively, including the three major desired characteristics of vehicles: position, speed, and category. Using distributed optical technology, this system can monitor traffic parameters on a large scale. Firstly, distributed optical fiber was embedded into pavement as a series of vibration sensors to collect pavement vibration information. Then, a signal processing method, based on wavelet transform and short-time energy, was applied to reconstruct vibration signals for vibration features extraction. Estimation methods of traffic parameters were proposed based on the vibration characteristics in time, space and frequency domain. To evaluate the performance of this traffic monitoring system, a prototype system was installed on a highway in Shanghai, China. This system shows good accuracy in position locating (± 14.639 cm), category classification (86.98 %), and speed estimation (± 3.046 km/h). Meanwhile, results indicate this system provides a better monitoring performance at high speed.
Changing the Way We Report, Interpret, and Discuss Our Results to Rebuild Trust in Our Research
Authors: Bernard Christophe
Published: August 2019

eNeurois moving forward with a new initiative asking authors to present their results with estimation statistics and not to rely solely onpvalues. In this editorial, I would like to introduce to you the concept of this new statistics while first discussing my evaluation of the present situation and my own experience with using statistics to interpret results, then I will propose a solution and how we will move forward in the journal. I have also included my own experience using these new statistics and provided a list of resources. This new initiative will not change what is already acceptable for statistics in the journal; it is to encourage a simple addition of using estimation statistics.
Tmem119-EGFP and Tmem119-CreERT2 Transgenic Mice for Labeling and Manipulating Microglia
Authors: Kaiser Tobias , Feng Guoping
Published: August 2019

Microglia are specialized brain-resident macrophages with important functions in health and disease. To improve our understanding of these cells, the research community needs genetic tools to identify and control them in a manner that distinguishes them from closely related cell types. We have targeted the recently discovered microglia-specificTmem119gene to generate knock-in mice expressing EGFP (JAX#031823) or CreERT2 (JAX#031820) for the identification and manipulation of microglia, respectively. Genetic characterization of the locus and qPCR-based analysis demonstrate correct positioning of the transgenes and intact expression of endogenousTmem119in the knock-in mouse models. Immunofluorescence analysis further shows that parenchymal microglia, but not other brain macrophages, are completely and faithfully labeled in the EGFP-line at different time points of development. Flow cytometry indicates highly selective expression of EGFP in CD11b+CD45lo microglia. Similarly, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry analyses using a Cre-dependent reporter mouse line demonstrate activity of CreERT2 primarily in microglia upon tamoxifen administration with the caveat of activity in leptomeningeal cells. Finally, flow cytometric analyses reveal absence of EGFP expression and minimal activity of CreERT2 in blood monocytes of theTmem119-EGFPandTmem119-CreERT2lines, respectively. These new transgenic lines extend the microglia toolbox by providing the currently most specific genetic labeling and control over these cells in the myeloid compartment of mice.
Male reproductive ageing: a tale of the whole ejaculate
Authors: Fricke Claudia , Koppik Mareike
Published: August 2019

Ageing is nearly ubiquitous and encompasses all biological functions. We here focus on age-dependent changes in male reproductive capacity across a broad range of animal taxa. While there has been a long-standing focus on mating ability and overall reproductive success, we here highlight the underlying mechanisms that explain loss in fertilisation capacity in ageing males. Fertilisation is mediated by not only the presence of sperm, but also the cocktail of seminal fluid proteins that ensure sperm survival, capacitation and interaction with female physiology. Sperm ageing has received much attention in studies of male reproductive senescence; however, post-mating processes include a number of interlocked steps that together cumulate in successful fertilisation. As such we consider male ability to elicit female post mating responses such as uterine conformational changes, sperm storage and ovulation and the components within the ejaculate that mediate these post-mating processes. For the latter seminal fluid proteins are key and hence we reflect on age-dependent changes in quality of the entire ejaculate and its consequences for male reproductive capacity. While first studies accrue and highlight that changes in the non-sperm fraction can explain substantial variation in senescent male reproductive success and male ability to induce post-mating responses necessary for fertilisation many open questions still remain that warrant further investigations. One being what the potential age-dependent changes in composition are or whether there is a general decline and how this interacts with sperm to affect fertilisation success. Further, the impact females might have to ameliorate these changes will be an area of interest.
Is there an immune modulating role for follicular fluid in endometriosis? A narrative review
Authors: Prins Jelmer R , Marissen Lotte M , Scherjon Sicco A , Hoek Annemieke , Cantineau Astrid E P
Published: August 2019

Follicular fluid (FF) surrounds the granulosa cell–oocyte complex and is one of the mediating factors in the communication between the cells within the follicle. Literature reveals that human FF and its components are key factors to the success of natural fertilization. Among other substances, FF consists of multiple cytokines and immune cells, including interleukin 6 (IL6), IL12, sHLA-G, macrophages, NK cells and lymphocytes. Together, these cells and cytokines might influence the oocyte–granulosa–cell complex. Altered balances of immune content might be involved in changes on folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, oocyte quality and ovulation. Furthermore, these altered balances are possibly involved in infertility associated with immune-mediated diseases such as endometriosis. The aim of this narrative review is to elaborate on the function and contents of FF and its immunological profile in patients with endometriosis. A comprehensive literature search was performed for the published literature on FF (immune) contents, FF function and FF content alterations in endometriosis patients. In FF of patients with endometriosis, elevated levels of macrophages and several cytokines have been reported. The role of specific immune cells in FF and a clarification of the biological mechanism in healthy women and endometriosis patients remain largely unknown. Future studies in this field will give us more insight in the role of FF immune cells and the effect of altered balances in patients with endometriosis.
The ACT NOW Clinical Practice Survey: Gaps in the Care of Infants With Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome
Authors: Snowden Jessica N. , Akshatha A. , Annett Robert D. , Crawford Margaret M. , Das Abhik , Devlin Lori A. , Higgins Rosemary D. , Hu Zhuopei , Lindsay Elizabeth , Merhar Stephanie , Campbell Nesmith Clare , Pratt-Chavez Heather , Ross Judith , Simon Alan E. , Smith M. Cody , Turley Christine B. , Walden Anita , Young Leslie , Whalen Bonny
Published: August 2019

OBJECTIVES:

The incidence of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) has increased fivefold over the last 10 years. Standardized NOWS care protocols have revealed many improved patient outcomes. Our objective for this study is to describe results of a clinical practice survey of NOWS management practices designed to inform future clinical studies in the diagnosis and management of NOWS.

METHODS:

A cross-sectional survey was administered to medical unit directors at 32 Institutional Development Award States Pediatric Clinical Trial Network and 22 Neonatal Research Network sites in the fall of 2017. Results are presented as both the number and percentage of positive responses. Ninety-five percent Wilson confidence intervals (CIs) were generated around estimates, and χ2 and Fisher’s exact tests were used to compare the association between unit type and reporting of each protocol.

RESULTS:

Sixty-two responses representing 54 medical centers were received. Most participating NICU and non-ICU sites reported protocols for NOWS management, including NOWS scoring (98% NICU; 86% non-ICU), pharmacologic treatment (92% NICU; 64% non-ICU), and nonpharmacologic care (79% NICU; 79% non-ICU). Standardized protocols for pharmacologic care and weaning were reported more frequently in the NICU (92% [95% CI: 80%–97%] and 94% [95% CI: 83%–98%], respectively) compared with non-ICU settings (64% [95% CI: 39%–84%] for both) (P < .05 for both comparisons). Most medical centers reported morphine as first-line therapy (82%; 95% CI: 69%–90%) and level 3 and level 4 NICUs as the location of pharmacologic treatment (83%; 95% CI: 71%–91%).

CONCLUSIONS:

Observed variations in care between NICUs and non-ICUs revealed opportunities for targeted interventions in training and standardized care plans in non-ICU sites.
A Quality Improvement Initiative to Improve the Care of Infants Born Exposed to Opioids by Implementing the Eat, Sleep, Console Assessment Tool
Authors: Achilles Jennifer S. , Castaneda-Lovato Jennifer
Published: August 2019

OBJECTIVES:

The incidence of infants born exposed to opioids continues to rise. Historically, newborns with neonatal abstinence syndrome have been treated with medication-weaning protocols, leading to costly and prolonged hospital stays. We aimed to reduce the proportion of newborns with neonatal abstinence syndrome who receive opioid medications for treatment of withdrawal symptoms through a quality improvement program.

METHODS:

In 2016, we formed a multidisciplinary team and used quality improvement methodology to conduct plan-do-study-act cycles. Interventions included prenatal education, family engagement, nonpharmacologic treatments, morphine as needed, and the eat, sleep, console assessment tool. Primary metrics were the proportion of newborns exposed to opioids requiring pharmacologic treatment and the cumulative dose of opioids per exposed newborn requiring pharmacologic treatment.

RESULTS:

There were 81 infants in the baseline period (January 2015–September 2016) and 100 infants in the postintervention group (October 2016–August 2018). For infants who required medication for treatment, the postintervention group had significantly lower total cumulative dose in methadone equivalents (1.3 mg vs 6.6 mg), shorter length of stay (10.9 days vs 18.7 days), and nonsignificant lower direct costs ($11 936 vs $15 039).

CONCLUSIONS:

The described intervention effectively replaced the Finnegan Neonatal Abstinence Scoring System and had improved outcomes in more exposed infants receiving no opioid treatment, and when medication was required, the total cumulative dose of opioids was lower. The postintervention group had shorter average length of stay and lower costs.
Características psicométricas do Questionário de Temperamento de Aproximação e Evitação em trabalhadores
Authors: Rodrigues-Marçulo Alexandra de Oliveira , Ferreira Maria Cristina , Pereira Michelle Morelo
Published: August 2019

O temperamento de aproximação ou abordagem caracteriza-se como uma sensibilidade neurobiológica geral a estímulos positivos desejáveis, enquanto o temperamento de evitação ou evasão é instigado por eventos negativos indesejáveis. O presente trabalho reúne evidências iniciais de validade de estrutura interna e de relações com variáveis externas do Questionário de Temperamento de Aproximação-Evitação (ATQ) em trabalhadores brasileiros. Participaram do estudo 453 trabalhadores de ambos os sexos (79,2% do sexo feminino). As análises fatoriais confirmatórias indicaram que o modelo ajustado de dois fatores não correlacionados foi o que obteve os melhores índices de ajuste. Na relação com variáveis externas, as dimensões de aproximação e evitação apresentaram, respectivamente, correlações positivas baixas e correlações negativas baixas a moderadas, com o engajamento no trabalho, a adaptabilidade à carreira e o desempenho de papéis no trabalho. As evidências iniciais de validade obtidas recomendam o uso do ATQ em pesquisas futuras realizadas no contexto organizacional brasileiro.
Entre movimentos e trajetórias laborais de jovens profissionais
Authors: D'Avila Geruza Tavares , Coutinho Maria Chalfin
Published: August 2019

O artigo resulta de uma investigação doutoral cujo objetivo foi compreender os movimentos laborais e os sentidos atribuídos ao trabalho por jovens profissionais. Entendemos que o processo de ingressar em uma universidade e, posteriormente, no “mundo do trabalho”, possui particularidades no Brasil, tensionado entre distintas áreas como a educação, em especial, a de nível superior, e o trabalho. Para o estudo, entrevistamos 16 jovens profissionais recém-formados em cursos noturnos de uma universidade federal. As análises, inspiradas nos Núcleos de Significação, foram realizadas por meio das 1) Marcas sociais; 2) Vivências nos cursos universitários e nos cursos de bacharelado; 3) Trajetórias laborais; e 4) Concepções sobre o trabalho. A partir dos resultados, consideramos que o trabalho, assim como a educação, mediou todo o movimento dos jovens profissionais em direção ao mundo do trabalho. Ademais, em seus processos de inserção profissional, os jovens, diante das dificuldades com as quais se defrontaram, ressignificaram suas concepções e expectativas em relação ao trabalho.
PLA, ensino e cultura: reflexões sobre a formação de professores para a mediação e sensibilidade cultural
Authors: Heitor Sampaio Glauber Heitor , Rodrigues Luana
Published: August 2019

This article presents the results of a research that sought to investigate and discuss the experience of a group of PLA (Portuguese as an Additional Language) student-teachers while working at an extension course and their training to approach cultural themes within a conception of cultural mediation (Manaa, 2009). This research was based on a qualitative and interpretative approach whose focus was on recognizing, analyzing and understanding the way cultural knowledge is developed taking into account the teaching of foreign language, cultural diversity, and cultural intermediation. Data was generated through written narratives and the analysis was conducted in a way to identify the perception of the studentteachers about their own approaches and readiness towards cultural mediation on a daily basis. As a result, we concluded that, although not realizing that they have undergone training to such issues (cultural education, interculturality, and cultural mediation), they are able to reflect, position themselves and mediate cultural themes in a sensitive manner.
Os desdobramentos do Acervo Celpe-Bras para ensino, aprendizagem, avaliação e pesquisa em Português como Língua Adicional
Authors: Sirianni Gabrielle Rodrigues , Mendel Kaiane , Nagasawa Ellen Yurika , Schoffen Juliana Roquele
Published: August 2019

This article aims to present some of the research developed since the public availability of Acervo Celpe-Bras. Launched in 2014, Acervo compiled and made available past tests, manuals, legislation and academic research about Celpe-Bras, allowing new investigations to be conducted about the exam. Among the research made possible by Acervo are the description and categorization of the Written Part tasks of the exam, which provides resources for new Celpe-Bras specifications (Schoffen et al., 2018). Based on this description, a test preparation course was produced, which considers, in order to propose didactic sequences, the most recurrent characteristics of the tests. The research projects developed since the launch of Acervo consolidate it as a milestone in the history of the exam by promoting a more democratic access to the materials of Celpe-Bras for teachers, test takers and researchers interested in teaching, learning and assessing Portuguese as an Additional Language.