bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Saúde na escola: reflexões a partir das vivências dos estudantes de Fisioterapia
Authors: PEREIRA NETO Elísio Alves , FERREIRA Josielma Juvito , SILVA Kaísa Thomaz Cavalcante e , MENDONÇA Mayara Gabriel Lima de , SANTOS Renata Newman Leite Cardoso dos , RIBEIRO Kátia Suely Queiroz Silva
Published: May 2016

O Programa Saúde na Escola tem sido uma importante estratégia de prevenção e promoção da saúde na atenção primária. Esse programa consiste na realização de ações de promoção e prevenção em saúde, exige a ação conjugada de setores da saúde e da educação e muitos estudantes da área de saúde não têm a possibilidade de vivenciar esse programa durante a graduação. O objetivo deste texto, portanto, é compartilhar as vivências dos acadêmicos de Fisioterapia da UFPB na atuação na perspectiva do Programa Saúde na Escola e a importância dessa prática na formação profissional. O estudo foi realizado em uma escola da periferia da cidade de João Pessoa – PB. Quatro estagiários do oitavo período do curso de Fisioterapia desenvolveram durante dois meses atividades de educação na escola para aproximadamente 30 crianças. A análise dos discursos dos estagiários apontou que a vivência no programa contribuiu para o crescimento acadêmico e permitiu que eles observassem a importância de uma atuação conjunta com outros setores e também permitiu que percebessem como uma atuação no nível da atenção básica dentro do ambiente escolar pode ser transformadora, não apenas para as crianças que participaram da atuação, mas também de todos ao seu redor, sobretudo por ter sido pautada na educação popular.
Aspectos epidemiológicos da Leishmaniose Visceral humana e canina em municípios pertencentes à Superintendência Regional de Saúde de Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brasil (2007-2012)
Authors: URSINE Renata Luiz , PARANAÍBA Larissa Ferreira , DIAS João Victor Leite , MORAIS Harriman Aley , PIRES Herton Helder Rocha
Published: May 2016

O presente estudo teve como objetivo identificar as áreas de ocorrência e avaliar aspectos epidemiológicos da Leishmaniose Visceral humana e canina nos 33 municípios pertencentes à Superintendência Regional de Saúde de Diamantina no período de 2007 a 2012. Foram coletados dados de notificação dos casos de Leishmaniose Visceral humana, disponibilizados no Sistema de Informação de Agravos e de Notificação, e dados de exames sorológicos provenientes de inquéritos caninos registrados em livros da Superintendência Regional de Saúde de Diamantina. No período avaliado foram notificados 79 casos da Leishmaniose Visceral humana, sendo a ocorrência mais comum entre pessoas com idade inferior a 10 anos e igual ou acima de 60 anos, do sexo masculino, residentes em áreas rurais. Araçuaí foi o município que apresentou maior número de notificações da Leishmaniose Visceral humana, sendo classificado como área de transmissão intensa. Quanto à Leishmaniose Visceral canina, 17 municípios enviaram amostras de sangue para realização dos exames e todos apresentaram pelo menos um cão soropositivo. Foi verificado que alguns municípios notificaram a Leishmaniose Visceral em humanos e em cães, outros, notificaram a infecção apenas em cães ou em pessoas e ainda, municípios que não apresentaram nenhuma notificação no período avaliado. Entre os municípios estudados foi possível observar a condução diferenciada da vigilância da Leishmaniose Visceral. Sendo atualmente responsabilidade direta da esfera municipal, cabe ao nível regional orientar e fiscalizar os gestores nas ações de controle de acordo com a situação epidemiológica.
Perfil dos medicamentos fornecidos via processo judicial na assistência farmacêutica do município de Santa Rosa/RS
Authors: UCKER Juliana Maronn , OLIVEIRA Karla Renata de , BANDEIRA Vanessa Adelina Casali , FLORES Vanessa Boeira
Published: May 2016

Diante da crescente demanda por via judicial de acesso a medicamentos, é necessário conhecer as ações judiciais e os medicamentos solicitados, a fim de qualificar a assistência farmacêutica. O presente estudo objetiva identificar o perfil dos medicamentos fornecidos via processo judicial no município de Santa Rosa/RS. Trata-se de um estudo documental, transversal, analítico e descritivo. Foram incluídos no estudo os medicamentos dispensados no mês de dezembro de 2013 aos usuários ativos cadastrados para o fornecimento de medicamentos via judicial até dezembro daquele ano, no setor da Assistência Farmacêutica do município de Santa Rosa/RS. A amostra foi constituída por 451 usuários e os dados foram coletados através do sistema Administração de Medicamentos do Estado, no qual os usuários estão cadastrados. Foram dispensados 948 medicamentos no período do estudo, totalizando 390 especialidades farmacêuticas distintas. Duloxetina 60mg foi o medicamento mais dispensado. Os medicamentos classificados como fora das listas oficiais do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) foram os mais prevalentes, e dentre os incluídos em alguma lista, os do componente especializado foram os mais frequentes. Os resultados reforçam a importância da divulgação do elenco de medicamentos disponibilizados pelo SUS e dos Protocolos Clínicos e Diretrizes Terapêuticas tanto para usuários quanto para os prescritores que utilizam e atuam nos serviços públicos e privados de saúde do município, além da discussão para a inclusão de novos medicamentos nas listas oficiais do SUS.
Mediação: um meio de desjudicializar a saúde
Authors: OLIVEIRA Maria dos Remédios Mendes , DELDUQUE Maria Célia , SOUSA Maria Fátima de , MENDONÇA Ana Valéria Machado
Published: May 2016

O artigo analisa o direito à saúde como direito fundamental inserto na Constituição do país e ainda não executado plenamente pelo Estado. Discute como as demandas tem superlotado os Tribunais de Justiça, provocando os gestores públicos governamentais, no âmbito do Sistema Único de Saúde, em busca de respostas as demandas sentidas pelos indivíduos, famílias e comunidades no tocante ao acesso as ações e serviços de saúde, ou seja, discorre sobre o que o cidadão de forma individual ou coletiva busca através da via judicial garantir e efetivar o seu direito à saúde. Apresenta outros elementos para o debate contemporâneo acerca da efetividade do direito à saúde, reconhecendo-o como um conjunto de respostas políticas e ações governamentais mais amplas, e não meramente formais e restritas às ordens judiciais. Sugere outros elementos para ampliar o debate no entorno da judicialização no setor saúde. Ressalta que o instituto da mediação pode ser um instrumento potencial a abertura ao diálogo entre os poderes judiciários e executivos, como estratégia para a desjudicialização da saúde.
Evaluation of Intensive “4R” Strategies for Decreasing Nitrous Oxide Emissions and Nitrogen Surplus in Rainfed Corn
Authors: Venterea Rodney T. , Coulter Jeffrey A. , Dolan Michael S.
Published: May 2016

The “4R” approach of using the right rate, right source, right timing, and right placement is an accepted framework for increasing crop N use efficiency. However, modifying only one 4R component does not consistently reduce nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions. Our objective was to determine if N fertilizer applied in three split applications (Sp), by itself or combined with changes in N source and rate, could improve N recovery efficiency (NRE) and N surplus (NS) and decrease N2O emissions. Over two corn (Zea mays L.) growing seasons in Minnesota, N2O emissions ranged from 0.6 to 0.9 kg N ha−1. None of the treatment combinations affected grain yield. Compared with urea applied in a single application at the recommended N rate, Sp by itself did not improve NRE or NS and did not decrease N2O. Combining Sp with urease and nitrification inhibitors and/or a 15% reduction in N rate increased NRE from 57 to >73% and decreased NS by >20 kg N ha−1. The only treatment that decreased N2O (by 20–53%) was Sp combined with inhibitors and reduced N rate. Emissions of N2O were more strongly correlated with NS calculated from grain N uptake (R2 = 0.61) compared with whole‐plant N uptake (r2 = 0.39), possibly because most N losses occurred before grain filling. Optimizing both application timing and N source can allow for a moderate reduction in N rate that does not affect grain yield but decreases N2O. Grain‐based NS may be a more useful indicator of N2O emissions than whole‐plant‐based NS.

Core Ideas

Split application by itself did not decrease N2O compared with single application.

Microbial inhibitors did not decrease N2O unless combined with reduced N rate.

Some treatments increased N recovery efficiency but did not reduce N2O.

N2O was more strongly related to N surplus on a grain‐ compared with whole‐plant basis.

Strategies that modify more than one 4R component may be needed to reduce direct N2O.
Evaluation of Alfalfa–Tall Fescue Mixtures across Multiple Environments
Authors: Tracy Benjamin F. , Albrecht Ken , Flores Joao , Hall Marvin , Islam Anowarul , Jones Gordon , Lamp William , MacAdam Jennifer W. , Skinner Howard , Teutsch Chris
Published: May 2016

Binary grass–legume mixtures can benefit forage production systems in different ways helping growers cope both with increasing input costs (e.g., N fertilizer, herbicides) and potentially more variable weather. The main objective of this study was to evaluate alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and tall fescue [Schedonorus phoenix (Scop.) Holub] mixtures across a wide range of environments to assess herbage accumulation, weed suppression and fertilizer nitrogen replacement values (FNRV). A common field experiment was established in 2009 and 2010 at six study sites in the United States: Maryland, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Experimental treatments included an alfalfa monoculture, three alfalfa–fescue mixtures with seed ratios of 75:25, 50:50, and 25:75 of alfalfa/tall fescue, and tall fescue monocultures that received nitrogen applications of 0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 300 kg N ha–1, respectively. Data were collected over a 2‐yr period. The responses of tall fescue monocultures to N fertilization differed among sites, and this contrasted with mixture yields, which did not exhibit site × treatment interactions (P > 0.05). Herbage accumulation and weed suppression were consistently higher in mixtures compared with alfalfa monocultures and tall fescue monocultures receiving less than 100 kg N ha–1. The FNRVs for alfalfa were within the range reported for other studies and averaged 143 kg N ha–1. The consistent herbage accumulations across these multiple environments suggest binary mixtures of alfalfa–tall fescue may be a good option for many forage–livestock producers although yields could be improved with location specific cultivar selection.
Global sagittal axis: a step toward full-body assessment of sagittal plane deformity in the human body
Authors: Diebo Bassel G. , Oren Jonathan H. , Challier Vincent , Lafage Renaud , Ferrero Emmanuelle , Liu Shian , Vira Shaleen , Spiegel Matthew Adam , Harris Bradley Yates , Liabaud Barthelemy , Henry Jensen K. , Errico Thomas J. , Schwab Frank J. , Lafage Virginie
Published: May 2016

OBJECTIVE

Sagittal malalignment requires higher energy expenditure to maintain an erect posture. Because the clinical impact of sagittal alignment is affected by both the severity of the deformity and recruitment of compensatory mechanisms, it is important to investigate new parameters that reflect both disability level and compensatory mechanisms for all patients. This study investigated the clinical relevance of the global sagittal axis (GSA), a novel measure to evaluate the standing axis of the human body.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review of patients who underwent full-body radiographs and completed health-related quality of life (HRQOL) questionnaires: Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Scoliosis Research Society–22, EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D), and the visual analog scale for back and leg pain. The GSA was defined as the angle formed by a line from the midpoint of the femoral condyles to the center of C-7, and a line from the midpoint between the femoral condyles to the posterior superior corner of the S-1 sacral endplate. After evaluating the correlation of GSA/HRQOL with sagittal parameters, linear regression models were generated to investigate how ODI and GSA related to radiographic parameters (T-1 pelvic angle, pelvic retroversion, knee flexion, and pelvic posterior translation).

RESULTS

One hundred forty-three patients (mean age 44 years) were included. The GSA correlated significantly with all HRQOL (up to r = 0.6 with EQ-5D) and radiographic parameters (up to r = 0.962 with sagittal vertical axis). Regression between ODI and sagittal radiographic parameters identified the GSA as an independent predictor (r = 0.517, r2 = 0.267; p < 0.001). Analysis of standardized coefficients revealed that when controlling for deformity, the GSA increased with a concurrent decrease in pelvic retroversion (−0.837) and increases in knee flexion (+0.287) and pelvic posterior translation (+0.193).

CONCLUSIONS

The GSA is a simple, novel measure to assess the standing axis of the human body in the sagittal plane. The GSA correlated highly with spinopelvic and lower-extremities sagittal parameters and exhibited remarkable correlations with HRQOL, which exceeded other commonly used parameters.
Structure of Fungal Communities in Sub-Irrigated Agricultural Soil from Cerrado Floodplains
Authors: Oliveira Elainy , Navarrete Acacio , Peluzio Joenes , De Oliveira Junior Waldesse , Valadares Alana , Tsai Siu , Morais Paula
Published: May 2016

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of soybean cultivation on the fungal community structure in a tropical floodplain area. Soil samples were collected from two different soybean cropland sites and a control area under native vegetation. The soil samples were collected at a depth of 0–10 cm soil during the off-season in July 2013. The genetic structure of the soil fungal microbial community was analyzed using the automated ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis (ARISA) technique. Among the 26 phylotypes with abundance levels higher than 1% detected in the control area, five were also detected in the area cultivated for five years, and none of them was shared between the control area and the area cultivated for eight years. Analysis of similarity (ANOSIM) revealed differences in fungal community structure between the control area and the soybean cropland sites, and also between the soybean cropland sites. ANOSIM results were confirmed by multivariate statistics, which additionally revealed a nutrient-dependent relation for the fungal community structure in agricultural soil managed for eight consecutive years. The results indicated that land use affects soil chemical properties and richness and structure of the soil fungal microbial community in a tropical floodplain agricultural area, and the effects became more evident to the extent that soil was cultivated for soybean for more time.
Beyond Hypothesis Testing
Authors: Kadane Joseph
Published: May 2016

The extraordinary success of physicists to find simple laws that explain many phenomena is beguiling. With the exception of quantum mechanics, it suggests a deterministic world in which theories are right or wrong, and the world is simple. However, attempts to apply such thinking to other phenomena have not been so successful. Individually and collectively we face many situations dominated by uncertainty, about weather and climate, about how wisely to raise children, and how the economy should be managed. The controversy about hypothesis testing is dominated by the tension between simple explanations and the complexity of the world we live in.
Cathode Assessment for Maximizing Current Generation in Microbial Fuel Cells Utilizing Bioethanol Effluent as Substrate
Authors: Sun Guotao , Thygesen Anders , Meyer Anne
Published: May 2016

Implementation of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) for electricity production requires effective current generation from waste products via robust cathode reduction. Three cathode types using dissolved oxygen cathodes (DOCs), ferricyanide cathodes (FeCs) and air cathodes (AiCs) were therefore assessed using bioethanol effluent, containing 20.5 g/L xylose, 1.8 g/L arabinose and 2.5 g/L propionic acid. In each set-up the anode and cathode had an electrode surface area of 88 cm2, which was used for calculation of the current density. Electricity generation was evaluated by quantifying current responses to substrate loading rates and external resistance. At the lowest external resistance of 27 Ω and highest substrate loading rate of 2 g chemical oxygen demand (COD) per L·day, FeC-MFC generated highest average current density (1630 mA/m2) followed by AiC-MFC (802 mA/m2) and DOC-MFC (184 mA/m2). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to determine the impedance of the cathodes. It was thereby confirmed that the FeC-MFC produced the highest current density with the lowest internal resistance for the cathode. However, in a setup using bioethanol effluent, the AiC-MFC was concluded to be the most sustainable option since it does not require ferricyanide. The data offer a new add-on option to the straw biorefinery by using bioethanol effluent for microbial electricity production.
A Case Study of Community Involvement Influence on Policy Decisions: Victories of a Community-Based Participatory Research Partnership
Authors: Williams Edith , Terrell Julien , Anderson Judith , Tumiel-Berhalter Laurene
Published: May 2016

The Buffalo Lupus Project was a community-university partnership that investigated associations between exposure to a local waste site and high rates of lupus and other autoimmune diseases. The partnership’s major accomplishment was successful advocacy for containment and clean-up of the site. As a result of community education, the remediation plan suggested by the community was adopted. Additionally, when a local childhood lead poisoning testing program was canceled, community members signed a letter to legislators urging them to replace the funding, which was restored within one week. This demonstrated how coordinated community-based capacity-building efforts can influence health policy.
Strongyloidiasis: A Disease of Socioeconomic Disadvantage
Authors: Beknazarova Meruyert , Whiley Harriet , Ross Kirstin
Published: May 2016

Strongyloidiasis is a disease caused by soil transmitted helminths of the Strongyloides genus. Currently, it is predominately described as a neglected tropical disease. However, this description is misleading as it focuses on the geographical location of the disease and not the primary consideration, which is the socioeconomic conditions and poor infrastructure found within endemic regions. This classification may result in misdiagnosis and mistreatment by physicians, but more importantly, it influences how the disease is fundamentally viewed. Strongyloidiasis must be first and foremost considered as a disease of disadvantage, to ensure the correct strategies and control measures are used to prevent infection. Changing how strongyloidiasis is perceived from a geographic and clinical issue to an environmental health issue represents the first step in identifying appropriate long term control measures. This includes emphasis on environmental health controls, such as better infrastructure, sanitation and living conditions. This review explores the global prevalence of strongyloidiasis in relation to its presence in subtropical, tropical and temperate climate zones with mild and cold winters, but also explores the corresponding socioeconomic conditions of these regions. The evidence shows that strongyloidiasis is primarily determined by the socioeconomic status of the communities rather than geographic or climatic conditions. It demonstrates that strongyloidiasis should no longer be referred to as a “tropical” disease but rather a disease of disadvantage. This philosophical shift will promote the development of correct control strategies for preventing this disease of disadvantage.
Polymeric Nanoparticle-Based Photodynamic Therapy for Chronic Periodontitis in Vivo
Authors: De Freitas Laura , Calixto Giovana , Chorilli Marlus , Giusti Juçaíra , Bagnato Vanderlei , Soukos Nikolaos , Amiji Mansoor , Fontana Carla
Published: May 2016

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) is increasingly being explored for treatment of periodontitis. Here, we investigated the effect of aPDT on human dental plaque bacteria in suspensions and biofilms in vitro using methylene blue (MB)-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic) (PLGA) nanoparticles (MB-NP) and red light at 660 nm. The effect of MB-NP-based aPDT was also evaluated in a clinical pilot study with 10 adult human subjects with chronic periodontitis. Dental plaque samples from human subjects were exposed to aPDT—in planktonic and biofilm phases—with MB or MB-NP (25 µg/mL) at 20 J/cm2 in vitro. Patients were treated either with ultrasonic scaling and scaling and root planing (US + SRP) or ultrasonic scaling + SRP + aPDT with MB-NP (25 µg/mL and 20 J/cm2) in a split-mouth design. In biofilms, MB-NP eliminated approximately 25% more bacteria than free MB. The clinical study demonstrated the safety of aPDT. Both groups showed similar improvements of clinical parameters one month following treatments. However, at three months ultrasonic SRP + aPDT showed a greater effect (28.82%) on gingival bleeding index (GBI) compared to ultrasonic SRP. The utilization of PLGA nanoparticles encapsulated with MB may be a promising adjunct in antimicrobial periodontal treatment.
Angiotensin II Stimulation of DPP4 Activity Regulates Megalin in the Proximal Tubules
Authors: Aroor Annayya , Zuberek Marcin , Duta Cornel , Meuth Alex , Sowers James , Whaley-Connell Adam , Nistala Ravi
Published: May 2016

Proteinuria is a marker of incipient kidney injury in many disorders, including obesity. Previously, we demonstrated that megalin, a receptor endocytotic protein in the proximal tubule, is downregulated in obese mice, which was prevented by inhibition of dipeptidyl protease 4 (DPP4). Obesity is thought to be associated with upregulation of intra-renal angiotensin II (Ang II) signaling via the Ang II Type 1 receptor (AT1R) and Ang II suppresses megalin expression in proximal tubule cells in vitro. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that Ang II will suppress megalin protein via activation of DPP4. We used Ang II (200 ng/kg/min) infusion in mice and Ang II (10−8 M) treatment of T35OK-AT1R proximal tubule cells to test our hypothesis. Ang II-infused mouse kidneys displayed increases in DPP4 activity and decreases in megalin. In proximal tubule cells, Ang II stimulated DPP4 activity concurrent with suppression of megalin. MK0626, a DPP4 inhibitor, partially restored megalin expression similar to U0126, a mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular regulated kinase (ERK) kinase kinase (MEK) 1/2 inhibitor and AG1478, an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor. Similarly, Ang II-induced ERK phosphorylation was suppressed with MK0626 and Ang II-induced DPP4 activity was suppressed by U0126. Therefore, our study reveals a cross talk between AT1R signaling and DPP4 activation in the regulation of megalin and underscores the significance of targeting DPP4 in the prevention of obesity related kidney injury progression.
Impact of Faba Bean-Seed Rhizobial Inoculation on Microbial Activity in the Rhizosphere Soil during Growing Season
Authors: Siczek Anna , Lipiec Jerzy
Published: May 2016

Inoculation of legume seeds with Rhizobium affects soil microbial community and processes, especially in the rhizosphere. This study aimed at assessing the effect of Rhizobium inoculation on microbial activity in the faba bean rhizosphere during the growing season in a field experiment on a Haplic Luvisol derived from loess. Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) seeds were non-inoculated (NI) or inoculated (I) with Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. viciae and sown. The rhizosphere soil was analyzed for the enzymatic activities of dehydrogenases, urease, protease and acid phosphomonoesterase, and functional diversity (catabolic potential) using the Average Well Color Development, Shannon-Weaver, and Richness indices following the community level physiological profiling from Biolog EcoPlate™. The analyses were done on three occasions corresponding to the growth stages of: 5–6 leaf, flowering, and pod formation. The enzymatic activities were higher in I than NI (p < 0.05) throughout the growing season. However, none of the functional diversity indices differed significantly under both treatments, regardless of the growth stage. This work showed that the functional diversity of the microbial communities was a less sensitive tool than enzyme activities in assessment of rhizobial inoculation effects on rhizosphere microbial activity.
Gold Incorporated Mesoporous Silica Thin Film Model Surface as a Robust SERS and Catalytically Active Substrate
Authors: Sunil Sekhar Anandakumari , Vinod Chathakudath
Published: May 2016

Ultra-small gold nanoparticles incorporated in mesoporous silica thin films with accessible pore channels perpendicular to the substrate are prepared by a modified sol-gel method. The simple and easy spin coating technique is applied here to make homogeneous thin films. The surface characterization using FESEM shows crack-free films with a perpendicular pore arrangement. The applicability of these thin films as catalysts as well as a robust SERS active substrate for model catalysis study is tested. Compared to bare silica film our gold incorporated silica, GSM-23F gave an enhancement factor of 103 for RhB with a laser source 633 nm. The reduction reaction of p-nitrophenol with sodium borohydride from our thin films shows a decrease in peak intensity corresponding to –NO2 group as time proceeds, confirming the catalytic activity. Such model surfaces can potentially bridge the material gap between a real catalytic system and surface science studies.
Positively Charged Nanostructured Lipid Carriers and Their Effect on the Dissolution of Poorly Soluble Drugs
Authors: Choi Kyeong-Ok , Choe Jaehyeog , Suh Seokjin , Ko Sanghoon
Published: May 2016

The objective of this study is to develop suitable formulations to improve the dissolution rate of poorly water soluble drugs. We selected lipid-based formulation as a drug carrier and modified the surface using positively charged chitosan derivative (HTCC) to increase its water solubility and bioavailability. Chitosan and HTCC-coated lipid particles had higher zeta-potential values than uncoated one over the whole pH ranges and improved encapsulation efficiency. In vitro drug release showed that all NLC formulations showed higher in vitro release efficiency than drug particle at pH 7.4. Furthermore, NLC formulation prepared with chitosan or HTCC represented good sustained release property. The results indicate that chitosan and HTCC can be excellent formulating excipients of lipid-based delivery carrier for improving poorly water soluble drug delivery.
Epigallocatechin Gallate Nanodelivery Systems for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Granja Andreia , Pinheiro Marina , Reis Salette
Published: May 2016

Cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality all over the world. Conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy, are generally expensive, highly toxic and lack efficiency. Cancer chemoprevention using phytochemicals is emerging as a promising approach for the treatment of early carcinogenic processes. (−)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is the major bioactive constituent in green tea with numerous health benefits including anti-cancer activity, which has been intensively studied. Besides its potential for chemoprevention, EGCG has also been shown to synergize with common anti-cancer agents, which makes it a suitable adjuvant in chemotherapy. However, limitations in terms of stability and bioavailability have hampered its application in clinical settings. Nanotechnology may have an important role in improving the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics of EGCG. Indeed, several studies have already reported the use of nanoparticles as delivery vehicles of EGCG for cancer therapy. The aim of this article is to discuss the EGCG molecule and its associated health benefits, particularly its anti-cancer activity and provide an overview of the studies that have employed nanotechnology strategies to enhance EGCG’s properties and potentiate its anti-tumoral activity.
The Association of Dietary l-Arginine Intake and Serum Nitric Oxide Metabolites in Adults: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Mirmiran Parvin , Bahadoran Zahra , Ghasemi Asghar , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: May 2016

This study was conducted to investigate whether regular dietary intake of l-arginine is associated with serum nitrate + nitrite (NOx). In this cross-sectional study, 2771 men and women, who had participated in the third examination of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (2006–2008), were recruited. Demographics, anthropometrics and biochemical variables were evaluated. Dietary data were collected using a validated 168-food item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire and dietary intake of l-arginine was calculated. To determine any association between dietary l-arginine and serum NOx, linear regression models with adjustment for potential confounders were used. Mean age of participants (39.2% men) was 45.9 ± 15.9 years. After adjustment for all potential confounding variables, a significant positive association was observed between l-arginine intake and serum NOx concentrations in the fourth quartile of l-arginine (β = 6.63, 95% CI = 4.14, 9.12, p for trend = 0.001), an association stronger in women. Further analysis, stratified by age, body mass index and hypertension status categories, showed a greater association in middle-aged and older adults (β = 9.12, 95% CI = 3.99, 13.6 and β = 12.1, 95% CI = 6.48, 17.7, respectively). l-arginine intakes were also strongly associated with serum NOx levels in overweight and obese subjects in the upper quartile (β = 10.7, 95% CI = 5.43, 16.0 and β = 11.0, 95% CI = 4.29, 17.5); a greater association was also observed between l-arginine intakes and serum NOx in non-hypertensive (HTN) compared to HTN subjects (β = 2.65, 95% CI = 2.1–3.2 vs. β = 1.25, 95% CI = −1.64–4.15). Dietary l-arginine intakes were associated to serum NOx and this association may be affected by sex, age, body mass index, and hypertension status.
Small Faith-Related Organizations as Partners in Local Social Service Networks
Authors: Campbell David
Published: May 2016

Efforts to enlist small faith-related organizations as partners in public service delivery raise many questions. Using community social service networks as the unit of analysis, this paper asks one with broader relevance to nonprofit sector managers: What factors support and constrain effective integration of these organizations into a local service delivery network? The evidence and illustrations come from longitudinal case studies of five faith-related organizations who received their first government contract as part of a California faith-based initiative. By comparing the organizational development and network partnership trajectories of these organizations over more than a decade, the analysis identifies four key variables influencing partnership dynamics and outcomes: organizational niche within the local network; leadership connections and network legitimacy; faith-inspired commitments and persistence; and core organizational competencies and capacities. The evidence supports shifting the focus of faith-based initiatives to emphasize local planning and network development, taking into account how these four variables apply to specific organizations and their community context.
Landsat ETM+ and SRTM Data Provide Near Real-Time Monitoring of Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) Habitats in Africa
Authors: Jantz Samuel , Pintea Lilian , Nackoney Janet , Hansen Matthew
Published: May 2016

All four chimpanzee sub-species populations are declining due to multiple factors including human-caused habitat loss. Effective conservation efforts are therefore needed to ensure their long-term survival. Habitat suitability models serve as useful tools for conservation planning by depicting relative environmental suitability in geographic space over time. Previous studies mapping chimpanzee habitat suitability have been limited to small regions or coarse spatial and temporal resolutions. Here, we used Random Forests regression to downscale a coarse resolution habitat suitability calibration dataset to estimate habitat suitability over the entire chimpanzee range at 30-m resolution. Our model predicted habitat suitability well with an r2 of 0.82 (±0.002) based on 50-fold cross validation where 75% of the data was used for model calibration and 25% for model testing; however, there was considerable variation in the predictive capability among the four sub-species modeled individually. We tested the influence of several variables derived from Landsat Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+) that included metrics of forest canopy and structure for four three-year time periods between 2000 and 2012. Elevation, Landsat ETM+ band 5 and Landsat derived canopy cover were the strongest predictors; highly suitable areas were associated with dense tree canopy cover for all but the Nigeria-Cameroon and Central Chimpanzee sub-species. Because the models were sensitive to such temporally based predictors, our results are the first to highlight the value of integrating continuously updated variables derived from satellite remote sensing into temporally dynamic habitat suitability models to support near real-time monitoring of habitat status and decision support systems.
GLORI: A GNSS-R Dual Polarization Airborne Instrument for Land Surface Monitoring
Authors: Motte Erwan , Zribi Mehrez , Fanise Pascal , Egido Alejandro , Darrozes José , Al-Yaari Amen , Baghdadi Nicolas , Baup Frédéric , Dayau Sylvia , Fieuzal Remy , Frison Pierre-Louis , Guyon Dominique , Wigneron Jean-Pierre
Published: May 2016

Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry (GNSS-R) has emerged as a remote sensing tool, which is complementary to traditional monostatic radars, for the retrieval of geophysical parameters related to surface properties. In the present paper, we describe a new polarimetric GNSS-R system, referred to as the GLObal navigation satellite system Reflectometry Instrument (GLORI), dedicated to the study of land surfaces (soil moisture, vegetation water content, forest biomass) and inland water bodies. This system was installed as a permanent payload on a French ATR42 research aircraft, from which simultaneous measurements can be carried out using other instruments, when required. Following initial laboratory qualifications, two airborne campaigns involving nine flights were performed in 2014 and 2015 in the Southwest of France, over various types of land cover, including agricultural fields and forests. Some of these flights were made concurrently with in situ ground truth campaigns. Various preliminary applications for the characterisation of agricultural and forest areas are presented. Initial analysis of the data shows that the performance of the GLORI instrument is well within specifications, with a cross-polarization isolation better than −15 dB at all elevations above 45°, a relative polarimetric calibration accuracy better than 0.5 dB, and an apparent reflectivity sensitivity better than −30 dB, thus demonstrating its strong potential for the retrieval of land surface characteristics.
Design and Implementation of a Novel Compatible Encoding Scheme in the Time Domain for Image Sensor Communication
Authors: Nguyen Trang , Hossain Mohammad , Jang Yeong
Published: May 2016

This paper presents a modulation scheme in the time domain based on On-Off-Keying and proposes various compatible supports for different types of image sensors. The content of this article is a sub-proposal to the IEEE 802.15.7r1 Task Group (TG7r1) aimed at Optical Wireless Communication (OWC) using an image sensor as the receiver. The compatibility support is indispensable for Image Sensor Communications (ISC) because the rolling shutter image sensors currently available have different frame rates, shutter speeds, sampling rates, and resolutions. However, focusing on unidirectional communications (i.e., data broadcasting, beacons), an asynchronous communication prototype is also discussed in the paper. Due to the physical limitations associated with typical image sensors (including low and varying frame rates, long exposures, and low shutter speeds), the link speed performance is critically considered. Based on the practical measurement of camera response to modulated light, an operating frequency range is suggested along with the similar system architecture, decoding procedure, and algorithms. A significant feature of our novel data frame structure is that it can support both typical frame rate cameras (in the oversampling mode) as well as very low frame rate cameras (in the error detection mode for a camera whose frame rate is lower than the transmission packet rate). A high frame rate camera, i.e., no less than 20 fps, is supported in an oversampling mode in which a majority voting scheme for decoding data is applied. A low frame rate camera, i.e., when the frame rate drops to less than 20 fps at some certain time, is supported by an error detection mode in which any missing data sub-packet is detected in decoding and later corrected by external code. Numerical results and valuable analysis are also included to indicate the capability of the proposed schemes.
On the Choice of Access Point Selection Criterion and Other Position Estimation Characteristics for WLAN-Based Indoor Positioning
Authors: Laitinen Elina , Lohan Elena
Published: May 2016

The positioning based on Wireless Local Area Networks (WLAN) is one of the most promising technologies for indoor location-based services, generally using the information carried by Received Signal Strengths (RSS). One challenge, however, is the huge amount of data in the radiomap database due to the enormous number of hearable Access Points (AP) that could make the positioning system very complex. This paper concentrates on WLAN-based indoor location by comparing fingerprinting, path loss and weighted centroid based positioning approaches in terms of complexity and performance and studying the effects of grid size and AP reduction with several choices for appropriate selection criterion. All results are based on real field measurements in three multi-floor buildings. We validate our earlier findings concerning several different AP selection criteria and conclude that the best results are obtained with a maximum RSS-based criterion, which also proved to be the most consistent among the different investigated approaches. We show that the weighted centroid based low-complexity method is very sensitive to AP reduction, while the path loss-based method is also very robust to high percentage removals. Indeed, for fingerprinting, 50% of the APs can be removed safely with a properly chosen removal criterion without increasing the positioning error much.
Induced Voltage Linear Extraction Method Using an Active Kelvin Bridge for Disturbing Force Self-Sensing
Authors: Yang Yuanyuan , Wang Lei , Tan Jiubin , Zhao Bo
Published: May 2016

This paper presents an induced voltage linear extraction method for disturbing force self-sensing in the application of giant magnetostrictive actuators (GMAs). In this method, a Kelvin bridge combined with an active device is constructed instead of a conventional Wheatstone bridge for extraction of the induced voltage, and an additional GMA is adopted as a reference actuator in the self-sensing circuit in order to balance the circuit bridge. The linear fitting of the measurement data is done according to the linear relationship between the disturbing forces and the integral of the induced voltage. The experimental results confirm the good performance of the proposed method, and the self-sensitivity of the disturbing forces is better than 2.0 (mV·s)/N.
Employees’ Perceptions of Corporate Social Responsibility and Job Performance: A Sequential Mediation Model
Authors: Shin Inyong , Hur Won-Moo , Kang Seongho
Published: May 2016

In spite of the increasing importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and employee job performance, little is still known about the links between the socially responsible actions of organizations and the job performance of their members. In order to explain how employees’ perceptions of CSR influence their job performance, this study first examines the relationships between perceived CSR, organizational identification, job satisfaction, and job performance, and then develops a sequential mediation model by fully integrating these links. The results of structural equation modeling analyses conducted for 250 employees at hotels in South Korea offered strong support for the proposed model. We found that perceived CSR was indirectly and positively associated with job performance sequentially mediated first through organizational identification and then job satisfaction. This study theoretically contributes to the CSR literature by revealing the sequential mechanism through which employees’ perceptions of CSR affect their job performance, and offers practical implications by stressing the importance of employees’ perceptions of CSR. Limitations of this study and future research directions are discussed.
Biotech Approaches to Overcome the Limitations of Using Transgenic Plants in Organic Farming
Authors: Lombardo Luca , Zelasco Samanta
Published: May 2016

Organic farming prohibits the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) inasmuch as their genetic material has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally. In actual fact, there is a conventional identity between GMOs and transgenic organisms, so that genetic modification methods such as somatic hybridization and mutagenesis are equalized to conventional breeding. A loophole in this system is represented by more or less innovative genetic engineering approaches under regulatory discussion, such as cisgenesis, oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis, and antisense technologies, that are redefining the concept of GMOs and might circumvent the requirements of the GMO legislation and, indirectly, of organic farming.
Performance of an Underground Stormwater Detention Chamber and Comparison with Stormwater Management Ponds
Authors: Drake Jennifer , Young Dean , McIntosh Nicholas
Published: May 2016

The transportation of pollutants from impervious surfaces during runoff events to receiving water bodies is a serious environmental problem. Summer runoff is also heated by impervious surfaces, causing thermal enrichment in receiving water body systems and degradation of coldwater aquatic ecosystems. End-of-pipe stormwater management facilities that are open to the environment can result in further elevated temperatures due to exposure to solar radiation. Receiving water systems that provide coldwater habitat require cool water temperatures to sustain healthy conditions for cold water flora and fauna (e.g., trout, dace). Underground Stormwater Detention Chambers (USDC) are a technology for the detention and treatment of stormwater runoff that can potentially solve the thermal issues associated with sun-exposed detention facilities while still providing an equivalent level of treatment services for stormwater pollutants. A field study of an USDC located in Southern Ontario was undertaken to characterize its treatment performance and effect on water temperature. The results were: the USDC was found to provide similar levels of stormwater treatment as wet detention ponds. On average, outlet maximum temperatures were 5 °C cooler than inlet maximum temperatures, and outlet water temperatures remained within the thermal regime for coldwater fish habitat throughout the evaluation period. There was little to no stratification of temperature, nor dissolved solids, but stratification of dissolved oxygen was observed mid-winter and into the spring.
THE VERY MASSIVE STAR CONTENT OF THE NUCLEAR STAR CLUSTERS IN NGC 5253
Authors: Smith L. J. , Crowther P. A. , Calzetti D. , Sidoli F.
Published: May 2016

The blue compact dwarf galaxy NGC 5253 hosts a very young starburst containing twin nuclear star clusters, separated by a projected distance of 5 pc. One cluster (#5) coincides with the peak of the Hα emission and the other (#11) with a massive ultracompact H ii region. A recent analysis of these clusters shows that they have a photometric age of 1 ± 1 Myr, in apparent contradiction with the age of 3–5 Myr inferred from the presence of Wolf-Rayet features in the cluster #5 spectrum. We examine Hubble Space Telescope ultraviolet and Very Large Telescope optical spectroscopy of #5 and show that the stellar features arise from very massive stars (VMSs), with masses greater than 100 M
⊙, at an age of 1–2 Myr. We further show that the very high ionizing flux from the nuclear clusters can only be explained if VMSs are present. We investigate the origin of the observed nitrogen enrichment in the circumcluster ionized gas and find that the excess N can be produced by massive rotating stars within the first 1 Myr. We find similarities between the NGC 5253 cluster spectrum and those of metal-poor, high-redshift galaxies. We discuss the presence of VMSs in young, star-forming galaxies at high redshift; these should be detected in rest-frame UV spectra to be obtained with the James Webb Space Telescope. We emphasize that population synthesis models with upper mass cutoffs greater than 100 M
⊙ are crucial for future studies of young massive star clusters at all redshifts.
SLIPPING MAGNETIC RECONNECTION, CHROMOSPHERIC EVAPORATION, IMPLOSION, AND PRECURSORS IN THE 2014 SEPTEMBER 10 X1.6-CLASS SOLAR FLARE
Authors: Dudík Jaroslav , Polito Vanessa , Janvier Miho , Mulay Sargam M. , Karlický Marian , Aulanier Guillaume , Zanna Giulio Del , Dzifčáková Elena , Mason Helen E. , Schmieder Brigitte
Published: May 2016

We investigate the occurrence of slipping magnetic reconnection, chromospheric evaporation, and coronal loop dynamics in the 2014 September 10 X-class flare. Slipping reconnection is found to be present throughout the flare from its early phase. Flare loops are seen to slip in opposite directions toward both ends of the ribbons. Velocities of 20–40 km s−1 are found within time windows where the slipping is well resolved. The warm coronal loops exhibit expanding and contracting motions that are interpreted as displacements due to the growing flux rope that subsequently erupts. This flux rope existed and erupted before the onset of apparent coronal implosion. This indicates that the energy release proceeds by slipping reconnection and not via coronal implosion. The slipping reconnection leads to changes in the geometry of the observed structures at the Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph slit position, from flare loop top to the footpoints in the ribbons. This results in variations of the observed velocities of chromospheric evaporation in the early flare phase. Finally, it is found that the precursor signatures, including localized EUV brightenings as well as nonthermal X-ray emission, are signatures of the flare itself, progressing from the early phase toward the impulsive phase, with the tether-cutting being provided by the slipping reconnection. The dynamics of both the flare and outlying coronal loops is found to be consistent with the predictions of the standard solar flare model in three dimensions.