bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Producing superhydrophobic/oleophobic coatings on Cultural Heritage building materials
Authors: Mosquera Maria J. , Carrascosa Luis A.M. , Badreldin Nabil
Published: November 2017

Water is the main vehicle of decay agents in Cultural Heritage building materials exposed to weathering. In this work, a simple method to produce superhydrophobic/oleophobic coatings building materials, including under outdoors conditions, has been developed. In addition, a study of the behavior of the developed coatings on different substrates (limestone, granite, concrete and wood) is reported. The addition of 40 nm-SiO2 nanoparticles to a fluoroalkylsilane reduces surface energy and produces a Cassie-Baxter surface in all the materials evaluated. It promotes high static contact angle values of around 160°, and a contact angle hysteresis of around 3°, giving rise to repellence. The building surfaces also demonstrate an excellent self-cleaning performance. The coatings maintain the building materials esthetics as required in the Cultural Heritage field. Finally, the coating presents a long-lasting performance due to condensation reactions producing effective grafting to the four building materials evaluated.
Epidemiological Study of Canine Mast Cell Tumours According to the Histological Malignancy Grade
Authors: Śmiech Anna , Ślaska B. , Łopuszyński W. , Jasik A. , Szczepanik M. , Wilkołek P.
Published: November 2017

The aim of the study was to identify significant relationships between the tumour malignancy grade and dogs’ age, breed, sex, size, and location of mast cell tumours (MCTs). MCTs accounted for 13.27% of all diagnosed canine skin tumours. The highest incidence was recorded among Boxers, Labrador Retrievers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Golden Retrievers. Statistical analysis revealed significantly higher probability of occurrence of the grade I mast cell tumour in the French Bulldog in the head, neck, torso, and limb regions, the grade-II mast cell tumour in Boxer, Doberman, Dachshund, shepherds, and setters in the scrotal region, and the grade III mast cell tumour in Shar-Pei in the axilla region. In the group of the oldest dogs aged 11-16, there was higher risk of development of MCTs grade II and III. Young dogs (aged 2-3 and 4-6) were found to be more prone to development of MCTs grade I. There was no correlation between MCTs grade and dogs’ sex and size. To the authors’ knowledge this is the first report on statistical relationships between the degree of mast cell tumour malignancy and dogs’ phenotypic traits, age and tumour location. This analysis indicate predilections for development of the particular mast cell tumour malignancy degrees in certain dog breeds, age, and anatomical location
Detection of Yersinia Enterocolitica Species in Pig Tonsils and Raw Pork Meat by the Real-Time Pcr and Culture Methods
Authors: Stachelska M.A.
Published: November 2017

The aim of the present study was to establish a rapid and accurate real-time PCR method to detect pathogenic Yersinia enterocolitica in pork. Yersinia enterocolitica is considered to be a crucial zoonosis, which can provoke diseases both in humans and animals. The classical culture methods designated to detect Y. enterocolitica species in food matrices are often very time-consuming. The chromosomal locus _tag CH49_3099 gene, that appears in pathogenic Y. enterocolitica strains, was applied as DNA target for the 5’ nuclease PCR protocol. The probe was labelled at the 5’ end with the fluorescent reporter dye (FAM) and at the 3’ end with the quencher dye (TAMRA). The real-time PCR cycling parameters included 41 cycles. A Ct value which reached a value higher than 40 constituted a negative result. The developed for the needs of this study qualitative real-time PCR method appeared to give very specific and reliable results. The detection rate of locus _tag CH49_3099 - positive Y. enterocolitica in 150 pig tonsils was 85 % and 32 % with PCR and culture methods, respectively. Both the Real-time PCR results and culture method results were obtained from material that was enriched during overnight incubation. The subject of the study were also raw pork meat samples. Among 80 samples examined, 7 ones were positive when real-time PCR was applied, and 6 ones were positive when classical culture method was applied. The application of molecular techniques based on the analysis of DNA sequences such as the Real-time PCR enables to detect this pathogenic bacteria very rapidly and with higher specificity, sensitivity and reliability in comparison to classical culture methods.
An evaluation of the usefulness of invasive and non-invasive methods used to diagnose Helicobacter spp. infections in dogs
Authors: Jankowski M. , Spużak J. , Kubiak K. , Glińska-Suchocka K. , Biernat M.
Published: November 2017

The aim of this study was to assess the suitability of invasive and non-invasive methods used to diagnose Helicobacter spp. in the stomachs of dogs. The study was carried out on 30 dogs of both sexes and different breeds, between one and 15 years old. A histopathologic examination, a microbiological culture, a rapid urease test, a direct bacteriological preparation and a nested PCR assay were carried out. Gastric Helicobacter spp. was identified in gastric biopsy specimens from 16 (53.3%) dogs using direct bacteriological preparation, in four (13.3%) dogs based on a culture, in 23 (76.6%) dogs using the rapid urease test and in 21 (70,0%) dogs based on a histopathological assessment of the biopsy specimens. The nested PCR of the gastric biopsy specimens revealed gastric Helicobacter spp. in all the dogs (100%). A saliva PCR assay revealed gastric Helicobacter spp. in 23 (76.6%) dogs, while stool PCR revealed the bacterium in seven (23.3%) dogs. We found that invasive methods were more accurate than non-invasive methods in detecting a Helicobacter spp. infection in dogs. In addition, the nested PCR method used to evaluate the gastric mucosal biopsy specimens was the most accurate test for detecting Helicobacter spp. It was further found that the PCR-based saliva assay was the best non-invasive method for detecting Helicobacter spp. However, taking into consideration that most of the diagnostic methods used to detect this bacterium have drawbacks, at least two diagnostic methods should be used to detect Helicobacter spp. as is done in human medicine.
Adenocarcinoma of the posterior segment of the gastrointestinal tract in dogs – clinical, endoscopic, histopathological and immunohistochemical findings
Authors: Spużak J. , Ciaputa R. , Kubiak K. , Jankowski M. , Glińska-Suchocka K. , Poradowski D. , Nowak M.
Published: November 2017

Of all the tumours in dogs, three percent are located in the intestines, and 36-60% of those tumours affect the large intestine. Adenocarcinomas of the intestines account for 20-35% of the gastrointestinal tumours and for almost 60% of the large intestine tumours. The aim of the study was to analyze clinical disorders and endoscopic, histopathological and immunohistochemical changes in colorectal adenocarcinomas in dogs with the use of the E-cadherin, β-catenin, cytokeratin 20 (CK20), Ki-67 and minichromosome maintenance 3 (MCM-3). The study comprised 11 dogs of both genders and of different breeds diagnosed with adenocarcinoma of the large intestine. They were from 4 to 11 years old. The large intestine adenocarcinoma was diagnosed in all the patients. 72.7% cases were diagnosed with a rectal adenocarcinoma, and 27.3% were found to have a colonic adenocarcinoma. All the studied proteins were expressed at different levels and, together with the histological findings, indicated different levels of malignancy (G). The statistical analysis revealed no statistically significant differences between the expression of E-cadherin and β-catenin in the studied tissues (p=0.79) and between the expression of Ki-67 andMCM-3 (p=0.39). A strong positive correlation was found between the expression of E-cadherin and β-catenin (r=0.86; p<0.05). The diagnosis of adenocarcinomas of the large intestine may be facilitated by the introduction of immunohistochemical studies using appropriate cell markers. They may also aid in the accurate evaluation of the biological character of the tumours, their origin, the connections between tumour cells and the mitotic index. That, in turn, may help determine the malignancy and the choice of treatment.
Cardiac disorders in dogs infected with Babesia canis
Authors: Bartnicki M. , Łyp P. , Dębiak P. , Staniec M. , Winiarczyk S. , Buczek K. , Adaszek Ł.
Published: November 2017

The aim of this study was to assess cardiac disorders in dogs infected with B. canis. The study included 50 dogs with babesiosis and 20 healthy control animals. All the animals had haematological tests, ECG, echocardiography and serum troponin I and CK-MB levels checked. The haematology in the group of dogs with babesiosis confirmed thrombocytopaenia in 100% of dogs, decreased haematocrit in 52% and anaemia in 46%. The most common abnormalities in ECG and echocardiography in dogs infected with protozoa included: change in appearance and/or amplitude of the T-wave (34%), increased fractional shortening (24%), an increased sinus rhythm (14%) and heart axis deviation (10%). In 19 of the 50 dogs with babesiosis, the level of serum troponin I was elevated. In 2 dogs that died from babesiosis, the troponin level I was very high. The ECG confirmed sinus tachycardia and interpolated ventricular beat in these animals. In all dogs with babesiosis that were used in the study, the serum CK-MB was high or very high and was within limits of 23.17 U/L - 369.62 U/L. The highest kinase concentration (367.33 U/L and 369.62 U/L) was observed in dogs that died due to the disease. The presented results prove that cardiac changes are common in canine babesiosis, but that most changes are nonspecific and appear to have little clinical significance. Cardiovascular assessment should be based on the assessment of the level of troponin I and CK-MB in the serum of sick animals. High concentrations of these factors might be indicators of poor prognosis.
First report of Feline Calicivirus (FCV) infection in stray cats in northeast China
Authors: Wang Kai , Pei Zhihua , Hu Guixue
Published: November 2017

To improve our understanding of Feline calicivirus (FCV) infection in cats in Northeast China, 1584 serum samples from 974 domestic cats and 610 stray cats were collected between 2012 and 2015. The samples were tested for FCV antibodies using a commercially available ELISA kit. The results revealed an overall seroprevalence of 37.56% (595/1584), a seroprevalence in domestic cats of 32.85% (320/974) and a seroprevalence in stray cats of 45.08% (275/610). Risk factor analysis indicated that species was the only risk factor for the presence of FCV (OR=1.678, 95% CI=1.362-2.066, P<0.001); age, season, region and gender were not risk factors. This is the first report of FCV infection in stray cats in China, and the results of this study can aid in FCV infection control in the felidae family.
Structural design and analysis of composite blade for horizontal-axis tidal turbine
Authors: Nguyen Quang Duy , Park Hoon Cheol , Kang Taesam , Ko Jin Hwan
Published: November 2017

In this work, we report on the structural design of a 5-m-long composite blade intended for use in a horizontal-axis tidal turbine. The blade geometry is constructed through an optimization process to obtain the maximum power coefficient at the desired tip speed ratio of 4.5 by applying the blade element-momentum theory (BEMT). The blade is primarily designed using a NACA 63-424 hydrofoil. The blade structure is designed by using the BEMT to compute the loading conditions at various inflow velocities. Two parallel spars were chosen to produce the blade structure grid, and the preliminary lay-up structure of the composite blade was determined according to the thickness distribution identified using the twisted beam theory under the assumption that the two spars plus the upper and lower skins mostly contribute to the flap-wise bending stiffness while withstanding an external load. Then, high-strength unidirectional and double-bias fiber glass/epoxy materials were chosen to fabricate the blade. The final blade structure was then analyzed in ANSYS Workbench using the finite element method. The results show that the blade structure can withstand the applied load with failure indices <0.4.
Contextual Review of Physical Requirements of Refereeing Rugby Union at an Elite Level
Authors: Blair Matthew R. , Cronin John B. , Rehrer Nancy J. , Button Chris , Gill Nicholas D.
Published: November 2017

RUGBY UNION REFEREES OFTEN DETERMINE THE OUTCOME OF MATCHES, WHICH HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANCE OF THEIR PHYSICAL CONDITIONING AND DECISION-MAKING ABILITY. THIS ARTICLE REVIEWS THE LIMITED POOL OF RESEARCH RELATED TO THE PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF REFEREEING 15-A-SIDE RUGBY UNION WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF MATCH OFFICIALS FROM OTHER TEAM SPORTS. DECISION-MAKING INVESTIGATIONS ARE CRITICALLY DISCUSSED, AND CURRENT PHYSICAL MONITORING ASSESSMENTS ARE PRESENTED ALONG WITH TRAINING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING COACHES. FOR A VIDEO ABSTRACT OF THIS ARTICLE, SEE SUPPLEMENTAL DIGITAL CONTENT 1 (SEE VIDEO, HTTP://LINKS.LWW.COM/SCJ/A221).
Protein O-Mannosyltransferases Affect Sensory Axon Wiring and Dynamic Chirality of Body Posture in theDrosophilaEmbryo
Authors: Baker Ryan , Nakamura Naosuke , Chandel Ishita , Howell Brooke , Lyalin Dmitry , Panin Vladislav M.
Published: November 2017

Genetic defects in protein O-mannosyltransferase 1 (POMT1) and POMT2 underlie severe muscular dystrophies.POMTgenes are evolutionarily conserved in metazoan organisms. InDrosophila, both male and femalePOMTmutants show a clockwise rotation of adult abdominal segments, suggesting a chirality of underlying pathogenic mechanisms. Here we described and analyzed a similar phenotype inPOMTmutant embryos that shows left-handed body torsion. Our experiments demonstrated that coordinated muscle contraction waves are associated with asymmetric embryo rolling, unveiling a new chirality marker inDrosophiladevelopment. Using genetic and live-imaging approaches, we revealed that the torsion phenotype results from differential rolling and aberrant patterning of peristaltic waves of muscle contractions. Our results demonstrated that peripheral sensory neurons are required for normal contractions that prevent the accumulation of torsion. We found thatPOMTmutants show abnormal axonal connections of sensory neurons.POMTtransgenic expression limited to sensory neurons significantly rescued the torsion phenotype, axonal connectivity defects, and abnormal contractions inPOMTmutant embryos. Together, our data suggested that protein O-mannosylation is required for normal sensory feedback to control coordinated muscle contractions and body posture. This mechanism may shed light on analogous functions ofPOMTgenes in mammals and help to elucidate the etiology of neurological defects in muscular dystrophies.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTProtein O-mannosyltransferases (POMTs) are evolutionarily conserved in metazoans. Mutations inPOMTscause severe muscular dystrophies associated with pronounced neurological defects. However, neurological functions of POMTs remain poorly understood. We demonstrated thatPOMTmutations inDrosophilaresult in abnormal muscle contractions and cause embryo torsion. Our experiments uncovered a chirality of embryo movements and a uniquePOMT-dependent mechanism that maintains symmetry of a developing system affected by chiral forces. Furthermore,POMTswere found to be required for proper axon connectivity of sensory neurons, suggesting that O-mannosylation regulates the sensory feedback controlling muscle contractions. This novel POMT function in the peripheral nervous system may shed light on analogous functions in mammals and help to elucidate pathomechanisms of neurological abnormalities in muscular dystrophies.
A Critical Role for Dopamine D5 Receptors in Pain Chronicity in Male Mice
Authors: Megat Salim , Shiers Stephanie , Moy Jamie K. , Barragan-Iglesias Paulino , Pradhan Grishma , Seal Rebecca P. , Dussor Gregory , Price Theodore J.
Published: November 2017

Dopaminergic modulation of spinal cord plasticity has long been recognized, but circuits affected by this system and the precise receptor subtypes involved in this modulation have not been defined. Dopaminergic modulation from the A11 nucleus of the hypothalamus contributes to plasticity in a model of chronic pain called hyperalgesic priming. Here we tested the hypothesis that the key receptor subtype mediating this effect is the D5 receptor (D5R). We find that a spinally directed lesion of dopaminergic neurons reverses hyperalgesic priming in both sexes and that a D1/D5 antagonist transiently inhibits neuropathic pain. We used mice lacking D5Rs (DRD5KOmice) to show that carrageenan, interleukin 6, as well as BDNF-induced hyperalgesia and priming are reduced specifically in male mice. These maleDRD5KOmice also show reduced formalin pain responses and decreased heat pain. To characterize the subtypes of dorsal horn neurons engaged by dopamine signaling in the hyperalgesic priming model, we used c-fos labeling. We find that a mixed D1/D5 agonist given spinally to primed mice activates a subset of neurons in lamina III and IV of the dorsal horn that coexpress PAX2, a transcription factor for GABAergic interneurons. In line with this, we show that gabazine, a GABA-A receptor antagonist, is antihyperalgesic in primed mice exposed to spinal administration of a D1/D5 agonist. Therefore, the D5R, in males, and the D1R, in females, exert a powerful influence over spinal cord circuitry in pathological pain likely via modulation of deep dorsal horn GABAergic neurons.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTPain is the most prominent reason why people seek medical attention, and chronic pain incidence worldwide has been estimated to be as high as 33%. This study provides new insight into how descending dopamine controls pathological pain states. Our work demonstrates that dopaminergic spinal projections are necessary for the maintenance of a chronic pain state in both sexes; however, D5 receptors seem to play a critical role in males whereas females rely more heavily on D1 receptors, an effect that could be explained by sexual dimorphisms in receptor expression levels. Collectively, our work provides new insights into how the dopaminergic system interacts with spinal circuits to promote pain plasticity.
Effects of sympathectomy on ovarian follicular development and steroid secretion
Authors: Garrido Maritza P , Fernandois Daniela , Venegas Mauricio , Paredes Alfonso H
Published: November 2017

Recently, the influence of adrenergic activity over ovarian function, and thus fertility, has begun to gain importance. Previous studies have shown that adrenergic activity through norepinephrine (NE) participates in the control of follicular development and steroidal secretion from the ovary, among other functions. To examine this phenomenon, the denervation of the gonad has been widely used to observe changes in the ovary’s performance. Nevertheless, the effect of the absence of adrenergic nerves in the ovary has only been studied in short times periods. In the present work, we used guanethidine (a drug that produces an irreversible sympathectomy) during the infantile period of rats, and we observed its effects in the adult rat (6 months old). Our results indicate that ovarian NE content is recovered at 6 months old, alongside with an increase of the adrenal content of NE and a dysfunctional celiac ganglion. Together, these results suggest that the recovery of ovarian NE does not come from a neural origin. In addition, ovarian performance was impaired because the changes in follicular development and steroidal secretion are not recovered despite the recovery of ovarian NE content. In conclusion, these results suggest that the nerve–ovarian connections, which are established during infantile development, are necessary for the accurate response of the ovary to sympathetic stimulation.
Caenorhabditis elegansDBL-1/BMP Regulates Lipid Accumulation via Interaction with Insulin Signaling
Authors: Clark James F , Meade Michael , Ranepura Gehan , Hall David H , Savage-Dunn Cathy
Published: November 2017

Metabolic homeostasis is coordinately controlled by diverse inputs. Understanding these regulatory networks is vital to combating metabolic disorders. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has emerged as a powerful, genetically tractable model system for the discovery of lipid regulatory mechanisms. Here we introduce DBL-1, the C. elegans homolog of bone morphogenetic protein 2/4 (BMP2/4), as a significant regulator of lipid homeostasis. We used neutral lipid staining and a lipid droplet marker to demonstrate that both increases and decreases in DBL-1/BMP signaling result in reduced lipid stores and lipid droplet count. We find that lipid droplet size, however, correlates positively with the level of DBL-1/BMP signaling. Regulation of lipid accumulation in the intestine occurs through non-cell-autonomous signaling, since expression of SMA-3, a Smad signal transducer, in the epidermis (hypodermis) is sufficient to rescue the loss of lipid accumulation. Finally, genetic evidence indicates that DBL-1/BMP functions upstream of Insulin/IGF-1 Signaling in lipid metabolism. We conclude that BMP signaling regulates lipid metabolism in C. elegans through interorgan signaling to the Insulin pathway, shedding light on a less well-studied regulatory mechanism for metabolic homeostasis.
Para uma teoria da figuração. Sobrevidas da personagem ou um conceito em movimento
Authors: Reis Carlos
Published: November 2017

No artigo “Para uma teoria da figuração. Sobrevidas da personagem ou um conceito em movimento”, parte-se da verificação de que a noção de personagem foi recuperada pelos estudos narrativos atuais. São valorizados nela os procedimentos construtivos que fazem da personagem o eixo semântico da narrativa e também uma categoria com um grande potencial de desenvolvimento em contextos formalmente não literários. A personagem não é um componente estático do relato: em diferentes tempos culturais, ela manifesta-se como entidade potencialmente dinâmica. A partir desse dinamismo, observado em certos romances do século XIX, as narrativas da era digital retomaram e reajustaram a personagem, com recurso a ferramentas próprias, em ambiente eletrónico. É nesse sentido que a personagem é um conceito em movimento.
Le rôle des personnages dans les rouages de l'intrigue
Authors: Baroni Raphaël
Published: November 2017

Cet article propose une synthèse d'un ouvrage qui pose les fondements d'une approche narratologique d'orientation stylistique et rhétorique visant à décrire avec le plus de précision possible le mécanisme des récits littéraires immersifs et intrigants. Partant du constat de l'existence d'une forte polysémie autour de la notion d'intrigue, je proposerai de partir d'une définition fonctionnelle apte à souligner le rapport étroit entre la dynamique du récit et la mise en intrigue, qui noue, entretien et dénoue une tension dans l'expérience esthétique. J’évoquerai également la manière dont la caractérisation des personnages et la mutabilité de leurs rôles peuvent déterminer de manière essentielle le profil de la tension narrative.*******************************************************O papel dos personagens na dinâmica do enredoEste artigo fornece um resumo de um livro que estabelece as bases para uma abordagem estilística e retórica da narratologia cujo objetivo é descrever com a maior precisão possível o mecanismo de narrativas literárias imersivas e intrigantes. Observando a existência de uma forte polissemia em torno da noção de trama, proponho começar com uma definição funcionalista capaz de enfatizar a estreita relação entre a dinâmica narrativa e o empenho, que constrói, mantém e resolve a tensão na experiência estética. Eu também menciono como a caracterização dos personagens e a mutabilidade de seus papéis podem determinar de forma essencial o perfil da tensão narrativa.Palavras-chave: Trama; Tensão narrativa; Caráter; Narratologia; Retórica; Estilística
Design and Development of CALL Courses in Japan
Authors: Johnson E. Marcia , Brine John W.
Published: November 2017

Features of Japanese education and student learning styles influenced the authors' design, development, and implementation of a computer-assisted language learning curriculum to support English writing and computing skills. The authors' research extended over a four-year period while teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in a University setting in central Japan. This discussion covers implementation of computer-mediated communication (CMC) and the language and computing skills students need to acquire for cross-cultural e-mail exchanges. CMC syllabus design within the Japanese context and within a second language acquisition (SLA) research framework is also discussed.
Mixing Pre-clinical and Clinical Medical Students in Full Patient Simulation: Impacts and Outcomes
Authors: Everitt Ayesha , Seale Jo , Butchers Colin , Thomas Libby
Published: November 2017

This article was migrated. The article was marked as recommended. Introduction: Full patient simulation is an accepted learning modality in the final years of undergraduate medical education. Less explored is its applicability to the pre-clinical stages of the medical curriculum or as a medium for peer learning. To investigate these issues we conducted a simulation study involving mixed teams of pre-clinical and clinical medical students. Methods: A sample of 52 medical students (27 year four, 25 year two) participated in one of six full patient simulation sessions. A mixed study design involving an online questionnaire and focus groups was used to assess the students' perceptions regarding their recent simulation experience and the proposed addition of simulation into the preclinical stage of their medical curriculum. Results: Focus group thematic analysis identified three major themes: non-technical skills, learning opportunities during simulation and simulation in the medical curriculum. The opportunity to practise team working and communication between different year levels was identified as a particular advantage. Questionnaire responses demonstrated an overall positive perception of the mixed year simulation experience. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the unique peer learning opportunities created through combining pre-clinical and clinical undergraduates in full patient simulation. The positive impact of these sessions on students' perceived acquisition of non-technical skills, specifically those of communication and team-working with colleagues of different skill levels, supports the incorporation of inter-year simulation into the undergraduate medical curriculum.
Cyclic behaviour of slender diagonally reinforced coupling beams with various amounts of transverse reinforcement
Authors: Han Sang Whan , Lee Chang Seok , Han Chan Hee , Moon Ki Hoon
Published: November 2017

Coupled shear wall systems are very efficient in resisting lateral forces induced by wind and earthquake loads. Recently, slender diagonally reinforced coupling (DRC) beams have been commonly used for coupled shear wall systems in high-rise building construction, which allows reduction of storey height and construction cost. The objective of the present study is to investigate the effect of transverse reinforcement on the cyclic behaviour of slender DRC beams. For this purpose, experiments were conducted using three DRC specimens with various amounts of transverse reinforcement. An equation for accurately predicting the shear strength of slender DRC beams is proposed.
Behaviour and damage assessment of a new hybrid-fibre-reinforced mortar under impact load
Authors: Cao Mingli , Li Li , Zhang Cong , Feng Jiaqi
Published: November 2017

An innovative hybrid fibre system of steel fibres, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibres and inexpensive (approximately US$230/t) calcium carbonate whiskers (CW) was assessed as a way of improving the mechanical behaviour of fibre-reinforced concrete under static and impact loads and reducing production costs. Static mechanical properties and repeated drop-weight impact tests of the designed hybrid-fibre-reinforced cementitious composites (HyFRCCs) are presented in this paper. The reinforcing effect of the new hybrid fibre system was found to be very close to that of conventional HyFRCCs (incorporating only steel and PVA fibres) under both static and impact loads. It is thus suggested that steel and PVA fibres can be partly replaced with CW to reduce production costs in large-scale construction applications. Ultrasonic pulse velocity, dynamic elastic modulus and crack width assessments were carried out to quantify the degree of damage in samples during mechanical testing. The impact energy absorbed by the specimens could be predicted using linear modelling. There is therefore potential for using such tools to evaluate the in situ structural damage under dynamic loads.
The effect of improper curing on properties that may affect concrete durability
Authors: Idowu Olusola , Black Leon
Published: November 2017

Good curing, enabling prolonged hydration and the formation of a well-developed microstructure, is imperative if concrete is to perform at its full potential. This may become more important with the increasing use of composite cements containing more slowly reacting additions. Furthermore, the effects of improper curing – that is, compromised durability – may not become visible for many years. A series of concrete mixes have been prepared of 20 or 50 MPa target mean strength, using either CEM I or CEM I + 30% fly ash as the binder. Mixes were designed with two different workabilities (10–30 and 60–180 mm slump). Samples were cured in a fog room at 20 ± 3°C and 99 ± 1% relative humidity (RH) or under ambient conditions of 20 ± 3°C and 42 ± 5% RH. Performance was evaluated in terms of compressive strength, transport properties and resistance to carbonation. Equivalent paste samples were characterised by thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy to follow hydration and microstructural development. Improper curing did not greatly affect compressive strength. However, the effects on transport properties, and therefore properties that may affect durability, were more profound. The effects of non-ideal curing were greater for lower strength mixes, those containing fly ash and, to a lesser extent, less workable mixes.
Does Finland Need Raciolinguistics?
Authors: Ennser-Kananen Johanna , Jäntti Saara , Leppänen Sirpa
Published: November 2017

A growing number of applied linguists and language educators in the US/North American context advocate for and from a scholarly perspective which views language issues in relation to racial issues and vice versa. The emergent field of raciolinguistics highlights the relationships between language and race/racism and has brought about research that investigates their intersections. Should scholars in Finland adopt (and adapt) such an approach to scholarly work? Three Finland-based scholars explore this question in a question ("prompt") - response format.
A new species of Mermiglossa from Kenya, with comments on the arrangement of Old World Panurginae (Hymenoptera: Andrenidae)
Authors: Ascher John S. , Engel Michael S.
Published: November 2017

A new species of the panurgine bee genus Mermiglossa Friese (Panurginae) is described and figured from females captured near Voi in the southern part of the former Coast Province, Kenya, a historical type locality for several bee species.  Mermiglossa voicola Ascher & Engel, new species, is distinguished from the only other species of the genus, M. rufa Friese from central Namibia.  The new species is readily identified due to its black rather than red metasoma and compound eyes slightly convergent above rather than parallel-sided.  The new species raises the total number of described bee species for Kenya to 343, extends the known distribution of its genus and subtribe from the Namib Desert of southwestern Africa to the western edge of the Nviri Desert of East Africa, and provides further evidence of extensive biogeographic connections between these disjunct xeric areas.  Recent changes in the family-group classification of Old World Panurginae are discussed in relation to recognition of Mermiglossina as a valid subtribe within an expanded tribe Panurgini also including the New World perditines.
Solución del problema de Kirsch mediante elementos libres de malla, utilizando funciones de interpolación de base radial
Authors: Realpe Fabio H , Ochoa Yasser H , Franco Francisco , Díaz Pedro J
Published: November 2017

El problema de Kirsch publicado en 1898, es utilizado como base para corroborar la precisión relativa de los métodos numéricos desarrollados en la mecánica de sólidos. Por esta razón se utiliza la solución de este problema para evaluar la precisión del método numérico Mfree con una función de forma utilizando los puntos radiales de interpolación, en el método numérico libre de malla. El método de puntos radiales de interpolación es una técnica de interpolación utilizada para construir funciones de forma con nodos distribuidos localmente en una formulación débil la cual permite representar el problema como un sistema de ecuaciones. El tipo de funciones más usuales son las funciones polinomiales o funciones de base radial MQ (RBF, radio basis functions), la cual fue utilizada por la estabilidad que presenta al momento de solucionar el problema numéricamente. Para hacer la comparación se usó la solución analítica dada por Kirsch y la solución numérica desarrollada en el presente trabajo, obtenido un error del 0.00899% lo que muestra que la técnica Mfree con bases radiales de interpolación MQ son precisas y confiables al momento de ser utilizadas como método numérico de análisis.
A Generalized Model and Control forSupermagnetic and Supercapacitor EnergyStorage
Authors: Gil González Walter Julián , Garcés Alejandro , Escobar Andrés
Published: November 2017

This paper presents a generalized linear model based on LMI state-feedbackwith integral action, applicable to the control of Electric Energy Stora-ge Systems (EESS) such as Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage(SMES) and Supercapacitor Energy Storage (SCES). A Voltage SourceConverter (VSC) and a Pulse-Width modulated Current Source Converter(PWM-CSC) are respectively used to integrate the SCES and the SMESsystems to the electrical distribution system. To represent the dynamicsbetween the EESS and the power distribution system a reduced generallinear model in the state-space representation is introduced. The proposedcontrol scheme regulates independently the active and reactive power flowbetween the EESS and ac the grid. Three case scenarios comparing a con-ventional PI controller and the proposed technique are conducted conside-ring grid voltage fluctuations. Extensive time-domain simulations demons-trate the robustness and proper performance of the proposed controller to operate the EESS as power compensator, in order to improve the operativeconditions of electrical distribution systems.
Rol de la función mitocondrial en el corazón y sus implicaciones en disfunciones cardíacas
Authors: Cañas Arboleda Mariana , Franco-Sierra Nicolás D
Published: November 2017

En este artículo de revisión, examinamos el papel de la mitocondria en el buen funcionamiento del corazón, y en la generación de diversas afecciones cardíacas, las cuales están caracterizadas por una baja producción de energía por parte de las mitocondrias y, por ende, hay un aumento en la pérdida de cardiomiocitos que conlleva al mal funcionamiento del corazón. Se ha determinado, que ciertas disfunciones mitocondriales asociadas a trastornos cardíacos se relacionan con alteraciones del sistema de fosforilación oxidativa, así como, con la disminución de ciertos componentes estructurales como la cardiolipina y la formación de supercomplejos. Se estima que cerca del 2.3% de la población colombiana puede presentar una prevalencia a la falla cardíaca. La presente revisión tiene como objetivo dar a conocer los avances investigativos relacionados con enfermedades cardíacas ocasionadas por disfunción mitocondrial, así como, la identificación de diferentes investigaciones dirigidas en la creación de alternativas de tratamiento para dichas patologías, todo esto con el fin de contribuir a la construcción de líneas de trabajo que tomen a la mitocondria como blanco terapéutico.
IMPACTO DA SAÍDA PRECOCE DO LEITO NA ARTROPLASTIA TOTAL DE JOELHO
Authors: Mendes André Pinto Souza , Gardenghi Giulliano , Dos Santos Alecsandra Aparecida , Barboza Deise , Marcondes Keli Cristina Betto Simões , Ribeiro Renan Fernandes
Published: November 2017

Introdução: A osteoartrose é uma doença inflamatória, degenerativa e progressiva que causa dor, incapacidade funcional e imobilidade. Havendo insucesso do tratamento conservador, é indicada a Artroplastia Total de Joelho (ATJ). Objetivos: Analisar o impacto da saída precoce do leito no pós-operatório (PO) e identificar quais motivos retardam esse processo. Metodologia: Estudo prospectivo e experimental com pacientes submetidos a um protocolo de mobilização precoce pós ATJ, de julho/2014 a março/2015. A estatística utilizou testes de Fischer e T de student não pareado. O nível de significância foi de 5% e os dados apresentados como média e desvio padrão. Resultados: Amostra de 30 pacientes, idade 67,5±7,4 anos, 80% sexo feminino, osteoartrose como etiologia para ATJ. O grupo NS (não saíram do leito no 1ºDPO) teve mais dor (PO imediato 6.4±4.1 contra 3.3±3.5, p=0.03; 1°DPO 7.1±3.2 contra 3.8±3.5, p=0.01; 2°DPO 5.7±3.2 contra 2.1±2.4, p=0.00; 3ºDPO 4.6±2.8 contra 1.7±2.4, do grupo SS, p=0.003) que o grupo SS (saíram do leito no 1ºDPO). SS seguiu o protocolo com maior frequência (p=0.003),  a média de permanência hospitalar foi maior no grupo NS (5±2.5 contra 2.8±0.8, p=0.00) e a quantidade de atendimentos de Fisioterapia foi maior no grupo NS (9.5±5.7 contra 4.7±1.7, p=0.00). O motivo mais frequente de impedimento para a saída do leito no 1°DPO foi a não liberação médica (62%), seguido por indisposição, falta de prescrição de fisioterapia e dor. Conclusão: O protocolo foi benéfico em relação à dor, capacidade funcional e tempo de internação, podendo reduzir custos hospitalares.
FATORES ASSOCIADOS À HIPERTENSÃO ARTERIAL NÃO CONTROLADA EM PACIENTES ATENDIDOS EM UNIDADES DE ATENÇÃO PRIMÁRIA
Authors: Borges Kroth Karina , Dominguez da Silva Clara , Borges Kroth Jéssica , Silveira Fraga Maia Helena Maria
Published: November 2017

Introdução: A Hipertensão Arterial Sistêmica constitui-se como uma das principais causas para o desenvolvimento de afecções cardiovasculares, sendo o controle pressórico a melhor alternativa para sua prevenção. Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência de Hipertensão Arterial não controlada e seus fatores associados em pacientes atendidos em unidades de atenção primária. Métodos: Estudo transversal com indivíduos em tratamento em Unidades de Saúde do Distrito Sanitário Cabula-Beirú na cidade do Salvador, Bahia, de março a julho de 2013. Análises bivariadas e multivariadas utilizando a regressão logística foram realizadas. A magnitude da associação entre as variáveis analisadas e o não controle pressórico foi estimada pelo cálculo da razão de chances (IC95%) e regressão logística. Os dados foram analisados pelo programa Stata e o projeto foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa da Universidade do Estado da Bahia. Resultados: Destes, 159 (53,5%) apresentavam hipertensão arterial não controlada. A baixa escolaridade (OR=1,71; IC95%: 1,02 – 2,86) e renda familiar (OR=4,09; IC95%: 1,03 – 15,21), a cor da pele preta ou parda (OR=2,64; IC95%:0,97 – 6,32) e a obesidade (OR=2,37; IC95%: 1,09 – 5,17) se mostraram associados a falta de controle dos níveis pressóricos. A presença de diabetes concomitante (OR=0,56; IC95%: 0,34 – 0,95) configurou-se como fator de proteção. Conclusão: Os resultados sugerem uma elevada prevalência de hipertensão arterial não controlada e sua associação com fatores sociais, hábitos de vida e patologias concomitantes. O conhecimento destas características pode proporcionar um planejamento mais específico de ações de promoção e prevenção de saúde para esses subgrupos na Atenção Primária à saúde.
Immunohistochemical staining of Syndecan-1 (Sdc-1) core proteins in islet beta cells of formalin-fixed human pancreas v1
Authors: Starrs Lora , Brown Debra , Popp Sarah , Simeonovic Charmaine
Published: November 2017

Paraffin sections (4 μm thickness) of formalin-fixed human pancreases were treated with heat/citrate buffer for antigen retrieval. Sdc-1core proteins were detected immunohistochemically using rat anti-mouse CD138 (Sdc-1) mAb (BD Biosciences), with horseradish peroxidase-conjugated rabbit anti-rat Ig (Dako). Background staining was checked using the corresponding isotype control Ig instead of the primary antibody. 3-amino-9-ethylcarbazole (AEC) was used as the chromogen. For morphometry, stained sections were imaged using a light microscope with attached camera (Olympus BX41). Image J software with color deconvolution plugin was used for the quantitative analysis of the % of islet area stained.
Immunohistochemical staining of heparanase (Hpse) in islets of formalin-fixed human pancreas v1
Authors: Starrs Lora , Brown Debra , Popp Sarah , Ziolkowski Andrew , Simeonovic Charmaine
Published: November 2017

Paraffin sections (4 μm thickness) of formalin-fixed human pancreases were treated with heat/citrate buffer for antigen retrieval. Hpse was detected immunohistochemically using HP130 mouse anti-human Hpse mAb (Insight), with biotinylated anti-mouse IgG (1/250) (PK-2200, Vector Labs) and avidin-biotin-complex (ABC reagent; PK-2200, Vector Labs). Background staining was checked using the corresponding isotype control Ig instead of the primary antibody. 3-amino-9-ethylcarbazole (AEC) was used as the chromogen. Stained sections were imaged using a light microscope with attached camera (Olympus BX41).
Immunohistochemical staining of heparan sulfate (HS) and collagen type XVIII (col18) core proteins in islet beta cells of formalin-fixed human pancreas and isolated human islets v1
Authors: Starrs Lora , Brown Debra , Popp Sarah , Ziolkowski Andrew , Simeonovic Charmaine
Published: November 2017

Paraffin sections (4 μm thickness) of formalin-fixed human pancreases and isolated human islets were treated with 0.05% pronase for antigen retrieval. HS and Col18 HSPG core proteins were detected immunohistochemically using 10E4 anti-HS (US Biological/Amsbio) and anti-Col18 (Santa Cruz), respectively, with horseradish peroxidase-conjugated rabbit anti-mouse Ig (Dako). Background staining was checked using the corresponding isotype control Ig instead of the primary antibody. 3-amino-9-ethylcarbazole (AEC) was used as the chromogen. For morphometry, stained sections were imaged using a light microscope with attached camera (Olympus BX41). Image J software with color deconvolution plugin was used for the quantitative analysis of the % of islet area stained
Method for extracting viral metagenome from shellfish v1
Authors: Jiang Jingzhe , Wei Hongying , Huang Sheng
Published: November 2017

This is the correct protocol if you want to research DNA and RNA viral metagenome from shellfish
Flow cytometry analysis of human islet cell expression of heparan sulfate (HS) and collagen type XVIII (Col18) v1
Authors: Popp Sarah , Simeonovic Charmaine
Published: November 2017

Isolated human islets were dispersed into single cells using Accutase (Millipore), ~1500-2000 islet equivalents/ml. 20,000-65,000 islet cells were transferred to individual wells of a 96 well culture plate (CELLSTAR, Greiner Bio-one) for immediate staining for flow cytometry analysis or for culture prior to staining. For intracellular staining, isolated islet cells were fixed in 2% paraformaldehyde (Sigma-Aldrich) and permeabilized using 0.3% saponin (Sigma-Aldrich). The cells were stained with 10E4 mouse anti-human HS mAb (10E4, 1/50; US Biological/Amsbio), mouse anti-mouse Col18 mAb (1/50; Santa Cruz Biotechnol.) or the corresponding isotype control Ig (mouse IgMκ or IgG2bκ; BD Biosciences) followed by goat anti-mouse Ig-R-PE (1/100; Southern Biotech). The geometric mean fluorescence ratio (GMFR) was calculated by dividing the geometric mean fluorescence intensity (GMFI) of cells stained with primary mAb by the GMFI obtained with the relevant isotype control Ig. Cells were analyzed using a BD LSRI flow cytometer and CellQuest™ Pro software (version 6.0; BD Biosciences).
Violência entre pares na adolescência: Um estudo com estudantes no início e no final do 3.º ciclo do ensino básico
Authors: Rosário Ana Cristina , Candeias Adelinda , Melo Madalena
Published: November 2017

Este estudo propõe-se caraterizar comportamentos de violência entre pares, em função do nível de escolaridade, género e variáveis socioafetivas. Os participantes incluem uma amostra de 80 estudantes do 3.º ciclo do ensino básico (7.º – 9.º anos), avaliados com o QEVE, em dois momentos (7.º e 9.º anos). Os resultados demonstram que: i) as condutas de vitimação e agressão mais frequentes são a exclusão social e a agressão verbal; ii) a taxa de vitimação diminui do 7.º para o 9.º ano, enquanto a taxa de agressão mantém-se estável; iii) os rapazes encontram-se mais envolvidos em situações de bullying físico do que as raparigas; iv) o sentimento face à escola (i.e., gostar da escola) e a perceção de ter amigos revelam-se aspetos protetores especialmente importantes das condutas de vitimação e agressão entre os alunos do nível de escolaridade mais baixo. Estes resultados sugerem uma intervenção educativa diferenciada e orientada para a literacia socioemocional, destacando o papel dos pares na prevenção da violência escolar.
Knowledge databank and repository service for agroforestry
Authors: Burriel Charles , Herdon Miklós , Tamás János , Várallyai László
Published: November 2017

The agricultural system experienced a strong abandonment of agroforestry in the 20th century, with agroforestry today taking place only on a few million ha in Europe. One of the aims of the AgroFE (Agroforestry Training in Europe) and the Agrof-MM (Agroforestry – Training – Mediterranean and Mountain Erasmus+) European projects is to build a knowledge databank to assist educational development and to provide experts and farmers with agroforestry knowledge. The KDB (Knowledge DataBank) is based on different professional vocabulary, metadata and thesaurus systems to build the content structure and help the users in their searches. A new tool will improve the knowledge management of agroforestry. The Agrof-MM project is creating an agroforestry thesaurus. The paper describes the knowledge databank system prototype for Agroforestry training and education. The knowledge databank is a component of the project training system. It aims to gather and share a set of documents and resources that partners, learners and public users can access in different forms: mono document objects and composite materials.
IJSD Volume 2 2012 Scaffolding the Medium
Authors: Kappenberg Claudia , Rosenberg Douglas
Published: November 2017

No abstract availableOriginally published by Parallel Press, an imprint of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Libraries, as The International Journal of Screendance, Volume 2 (2012), Parallel Press. It is made available here with the kind permission of Parallel Press.