bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O processo de especialização produtiva dos agricultores familiares da Zona Sul do Rio Grande do Sul através do Pronaf-custeio
Authors: Conterato Marcelo Antonio , Bráz Cauê Assis
Published: October 2019

A pesquisa tem como foco apontar o contexto do crescimento da soja na Zona Sul a partir da análise do Programa Nacional de Fortalecimento da Agricultura Familiar (Pronaf) e dos valores financiados pelos contratos firmados na região. Utilizando-se da Matriz de Dados do Crédito Rural (MDCR) e da Produção Agrícola Municipal (PAM), é possível verificar as mudanças da produção agrícola regional e seus impactos nos agricultores familiares. Uma política pública como o Pronaf tem o objetivo de fortalecer o pequeno produtor rural e, por consequência, diminuir a especialização produtiva reduzindo as desigualdades na agricultura brasileira. Entretanto, a atuação do programa não segue para este caminho. Nota-se que os contratos analisados indicam o afastamento das premissas definidas na criação do Pronaf em 1996. Dessa forma, o programa colabora para o aprofundamento das desigualdades na agricultura familiar tendo como principal fenômeno o afunilamento da produção agrícola local nas lavouras de soja resultando na especialização destes agricultores.
A construção de um território de desenvolvimento rural: recursos e ativos territoriais específicos
Authors: Cazella Ademir Antonio , De Paula Leandro Guimarães Nunes , Medeiros Monique , Turnes Valério Alécio
Published: October 2019

Este artigo tem por objetivo identificar os recursos e ativos territoriais específicos da Serra Catarinense que possam constituir uma oferta compósita no processo de formação de uma Cesta de Bens e Serviços Territoriais (CBST). Para tanto, parte-se da realidade do território da Serra Catarinense, em especial no que se refere a um levantamento preliminar desses tipos de recursos e ativos territoriais, capazes de catalisar ações de desenvolvimento que desviam do modelo produtivista hegemônico. A abordagem em questão coloca em destaque a importância nos processos de desenvolvimento territorial da articulação entre distintas iniciativas de valorização de produtos e serviços específicos. Por meio de pesquisas bibliográfica e documental, bem como do trabalho de campo na Serra Catarinense, esta investigação aponta que a abordagem de CBST se apresenta como um aporte teórico-metodológico inovador para a compreensão das novas definições e ressignificações de ações de desenvolvimento em espaços rurais no Brasil. No contexto empírico analisado, para além das iniciativas de criação de Indicações Geográficas (IG) para o queijo artesanal serrano, maçã, vinhos de altitude e o mel de melato, o turismo rural evidencia as potencialidades do território no desenvolvimento de iniciativas que consolidem uma CBST.
Evolução das conexões entre produção e consumo e seus impactos sobre as dinâmicas de um território: o caso de Mocajuba na Amazônia oriental – PA
Authors: Piraux Marc , Cuenin Pauline Hélène Cécile Marie
Published: October 2019

Pelo alongamento das cadeias alimentares, o sistema alimentar global gera um distanciamento dos produtores agrícolas com os consumidores. Frente a essa conjuntura global, movimentos locais de resistência se destacam, propondo iniciativas de reaproximação entre agricultores e sociedade. Assim, o objetivo desse trabalho é analisar a evolução desses processos de desconexão e reconexão entre produção e consumo, assim como as reconfigurações territoriais desses movimentos nas últimas décadas no município de Mocajuba (PA) na Amazônia Oriental. Para atender ao objetivo, foi realizada uma análise dos fluxos de produtos agrícolas e alimentares entre o município e o exterior e dentro do município, complementada por uma análise da trajetória do território nas últimas décadas e dos projetos de desenvolvimento local atuais. Destacou-se um aumento relevante dos fluxos de produtos agroindustriais vindos de fora do município a partir dos anos 2000-2005, especificamente para as zonas rurais, possibilitado pelos programas sociais que elevaram a renda da população. Isso se traduz por uma dependência cada vez maior dessas zonas rurais em relação aos produtos agroalimentares “globalizados”. Porém, observaram-se movimentos de valorização de produtos amazônicos de base alimentar tradicional como a farinha de mandioca e o açaí e, mais recentemente, iniciativas de reaproximação entre produtores e consumidores mocajubenses, tendendo a dinamizar as zonas rurais.
É dia de fazer feira na Universidade: análise do perfil do consumidor da Polifeira
Authors: Specht Suzimary , Blume Roni , Ende Marta Von , De Souza Mylla Trisha Mello
Published: October 2019

Este artigo tem como objetivo avaliar o perfil do consumidor da feira livre denominada Polifeira do Agricultor que ocorre no âmbito da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM). A pesquisa de caráter exploratório-descritivo foi pautada em análises estatísticas com resultados quantitativos, advindos de 105 questionários estruturados aplicados com os consumidores da feira, em outubro de 2017. Como resultado observou-se, quanto ao perfil dos consumidores um número significativo de jovens (31%), público que comumente não frequenta feiras livres. As respostas quanto à satisfação média dos consumidores, independentemente do tipo de vínculo com a UFSM, não apresentaram diferenças estatisticamente significativas em relação às características de infraestrutura da feira. Em relação à satisfação dos consumidores, a partir de quinze quesitos avaliados verificou-se que a feira corresponde às expectativas dos consumidores. O maior grau de satisfação se dá pela localização, atendimento, frescor dos produtos e confiança. O menor grau de satisfação foi atribuído à baixa variedade de produtos, seguida da restrita disponibilidade de lixeiras. Quanto à relação entre o hábito alimentar e o grau de satisfação dos consumidores verificou-se que não há diferença estatisticamente significativa entre a satisfação média dos consumidores onívoros, vegetarianos e veganos. Apenas a avaliação da utilização de touca e avental mostrou-se estatisticamente diferente entre os tipos.
Saneamento básico na região das Missões: realidade e desafios na implantação de políticas públicas que promovam o desenvolvimento
Authors: Rotta Edemar , Franqui Luis Henrique Teixeira
Published: October 2019

A implantação de políticas públicas adequadas para solucionar os problemas relacionados ao saneamento básico, e mais especificamente a coleta de lixo, constitui-se em um grande desafio a ser enfrentado pela maioria dos Municípios brasileiros. O artigo analisa a realidade vivenciada pelos Municípios da região das Missões, Rio Grande do Sul, no que concerne à coleta e tratamento dos resíduos sólidos urbanos, com o objetivo de contribuir para o desenvolvimento regional. Utiliza-se a abordagem qualitativa, com base na análise de documentos e na revisão bibliográfica. Constata-se que as alternativas propostas para o equacionamento das problemáticas enfrentadas passam pela formação de cooperativas de catadores, no que se refere à coleta seletiva de resíduos sólidos urbanos, e pela atuação conjunta dos municípios, via formação de consórcios públicos, no tocante à destinação final dos resíduos.
Madencilik Faaliyetleri ile Bozulmuş Arazilerin Onarımında Peyzaj Mimarlarının Rolü
Authors: ESRİNGÜ Aslıhan , ÖZER Serkan
Published: October 2019

Madencilik faaliyetleri
esnasında yönetmeliğe uyulmadan yapılan çalışmalar beraberinde birçok çevresel
sorunu getirmektedir. Madenin çıkarılması alanda ekolojik, fiziksel, kimyasal
hatta biyolojik değişikliklere neden olmaktadır. Bu durum doğal yapının
bozulması olarak ifade edilmektedir. Onarım çalışmalarına, farklı meslek
disiplinleri (haritalama, jeolojik, hidrojeolojik, meteorolojik, klimatolojik
ve dendrolojik) yapmış oldukları planlamalar ile çözüm bulunmaktadırlar. Bu
meslek disiplinlerinden biri olan peyzaj mimarlarının onarımda ki rolü ,
tasarım ve planlanma ilkelerinde dikkat edilmesi gereken hususların ortaya
konulması, canlı ve cansız materyallerin kullanılarak alanın tekrar doğaya
kazandırılması gibi konularda destek olmaktadırlar. Onarım sonucunda bozulmuş
alanların yeniden doğaya kazandırılması ile alanın rekresyonel potansiyelinde
artış sağlanacaktır.
Monitoring the Corruption-Generating Factors and the Effectiveness of Corruption Prevention Measures in Tax Authorities
Authors: Povetkina Natalia , Pyatkovskaya Yulia , Truncevsky Yuri , Ryzhova Evgenia
Published: October 2019

The paper is devoted to the monitoring the corruption-generating factors and the effectiveness of measures aimed at preventing corruption in tax authorities. The authors study crimes of corruption in tax authorities and point out that they are mainly committed for financial gain in the process of communication with the taxpayers - both physical and juridical persons. The authors highlight the systemic character of the Federal Tax Service's work to prevent crimes of corruption which makes it possible to identify both the violations committed by territorial tax agencies and the drawbacks of departmental normative legal acts. The article also examines the work of Commissions on the observance of federal employees' code of conduct and the regulation of the conflict of interests; Commissions work in the territorial tax authorities, analyze and classify both formal (procedural) or essential violations. The authors pay considerable attention to the control over the expenses of territorial tax authority's employees. There are numerous violations in this sphere: insufficient and incomplete character of used measures, formal approach to their organization and implementation, absence of necessary proof. The authors offer recommendations on the procedure of controlling expenses that allows to stop possible corruption offences. They also analyze the profit-related motivation of territorial tax authorities' employees committing crimes of corruption, its connection with the salary levels of state employees and make recommendations on developing comprehensive measures to prevent corruption in tax authorities, including the introduction of the system of social benefits for state employees. In conclusion, the authors present recommendations on the practical application of the monitoring results.
Comunicação e saúde, dois campos em intersecção
Authors: Ruão Teresa , Lopes Felisbela , Marinho Sandra
Published: October 2019

O campo da Comunicação na Saúde desenvolveu-se muito rapidamente nos últimos vinte anos, um pouco por todo o mundo...
The state of lipid exchange and thrombotic link of hemostasis in patients with chronic non-specific inflammatory diseases of genitals
Authors: Sokolovska Irina , Maryukhnich Nadezhda , Zarytska Valentyna , Kyrpychenko Olena , Nechiporenko Valentina , Pozdnyakova Olena , Gordiyenko Natalia , Tsymbal Victor
Published: October 2019

It has been stated that changes of lipid exchange and increasing of lipid peroxidation are accompanied by the inflammatory process, which show the increase of proatherogenic blood characteristics. In patients with chronic non-specific inflammatory diseases of genitals disorders of phagocytosis mechanisms, increasing of autointoxication and reaction of hypersensitivity of immediate type are revealed after full blood count index. On the basis of analyses results one can conclude that the increase of atherogenic properties of blood plasma in patients with chronic non-specific inflammatory diseases of genitals took place in accordance with vascular endothelium damage. The article is the first to show the effectiveness of complex treatment of different atherosclerotic pathogenesis links by means of correction of proatherogenic lipid fractions and antioxidative complexes.
Responsibility of the Executive Body of a Legal Entity for Fraud
Authors: Brisov Yu. V.
Published: October 2019

The paper discusses various legislative and enforcement approaches in the Russian Federation, USA, and Great Britain; compares the various provisions of the Plenums of the Supreme Arbitration Court of the Russian Federation and the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation on issues of good faith; analyzes the application of these provisions by the courts when considering issues of holding directors to account as a result of malpractice that entailed property damage. By the example of consideration of a number of key cases from the law enforcement practice of the courts of the Anglo-American system of law, the question of the use of tests is considered: objective and subjective integrity tests to regulate the issue of holding the executive body accountable. English and American courts resort to the criterion of good faith in very rare cases, and the fiduciary duty of directors in commercial companies was significantly limited. The approach used by the common law courts implies a minimal degree of court interference in the economic affairs of commercial companies. Holding the director accountable is allowed only in case of obvious neglect of duties or is considered in some cases based on the specific circumstances of the case. Russian courts often hold directors accountable not as a result of gross negligence or proven intentional actions by executive bodies to harm the company, but as a result of society not achieving the desired economic result. Besides, dishonesty compensates for obvious gaps in the internal corporate routine, which do not make it possible to precisely determine the boundaries of authority and the area of responsibility of the executive body. The author formulates a conclusion on the degree of admissible judicial discretion when applying the provisions on good faith to corporate relations as requiring special regulation.
RESIST, PERSIST, AND TRANSFORM: THE EMERGENCE AND IMPACT OF GRASSROOTS RESISTANCE GROUPS OPPOSING THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY
Authors: Gose Leah E. , Skocpol Theda
Published: October 2019

The November 2016 election sparked nationwide resistance to the new Trump administration and Republican Congress. Initial studies have focused on public protests and professionally staffed advocacy organizations, but the resistance also includes thousands of volunteer-led grassroots groups. This article uses data from online surveys, fieldwork observations and interviews, and web searches to analyze the development, demographics, and activities of grassroots resistance groups located in multiple states as well as all parts of Pennsylvania. Starting right after the 2016 election, local resistance groups were founded in places of all sizes and partisan orientations through friendships and social media contacts. Most of their members and leaders are middle-class, college-educated white women. Groups have reached out to surrounding communities, generating and supporting candidates for local, state, and national public offices; and many participants seek to join and reform local Democratic Party organizations.
“IT HAPPENED BEHIND CLOSED DOORS”: LEGISLATIVE BUFFERING AS AN INFORMAL MECHANISM OF POLITICAL MEDIATION
Authors: Basseches Joshua A.
Published: October 2019

The political mediation model explains movement policy outcomes ranging from complete failure to total success. However, the qualitative mechanisms through which political mediation occurs empirically remain understudied, especially as they relate to the content-specifying stages of the legislative process. Furthermore, while we know that political mediation is context dependent, key elements of what political context entails remain underspecified. This article addresses these gaps by tracing the influence of a coalition of social movement organizations (SMOs) seeking to simultaneously shape the content of two major climate bills in a progressive U.S. state where the climate movement enjoys a relatively favorable political context overall. Comparing the divergent trajectories and outcomes of the two bills illuminates the process of legislative buffering, which is conceptualized as an informal mechanism of political mediation. The comparative analysis also reveals situational elements of political context that can present additional hurdles movements must overcome to maximize their success.
Clinical and Demographical Profiles of the Patients with Delusional Disorder: a Retrospective Study
Authors: ÖZEN Murat Eren , ÖRÜM Mehmet Hamdi , KALENDEROĞLU Aysun , HOCAOĞLU Çiçek
Published: October 2019

Objective: We aimed to investigate demographic, environmental, psychosocial and clinical characteristics in a group of patients with delusional disorder (DD).Method: In a retrospective descriptive study design, cases with DD registered at Psychiatry Clinic of Xxxxxxx XxxxxxxResearch Hospital was conducted. We obtained a sample of 320 DD patients who met the inclusion criteria according to DSM-IV. Socio-demographic and general data, risk factors, clinical picture and diagnosis were collected.Results: Proportion of males versus females was of 1.12. Only 31.25% of patients were illiterate. Of the patients, 56.56% were married and about half of them shared home. About 16,9% of patients had a past history of alcohol consumption, and 2,3% consumed other drugs. The most frequent subtype with the persecutory with 158 cases (49.38%). Ideas of reference and of persecution were found in 83.75% and 81.88% respectively.Conclusions: We found a male preponderance and persecutory subtype with the mean age at onset in the fourth decade in our DD sample. Education level was moderate and low in most of the patients. Reference and persecutory ideation and auditive hallucinations were the most prevalent delusional symptomatology in patients groups.
Evaluación de la amenaza por movimientos en masa detonados por lluvias para una región de los Andes colombianos estimando la probabilidad espacial, temporal, y magnitud
Authors: Aristizábal Edier , López Sandra , Sánchez Oscar , Vásquez Mariana , Rincón Felipe , Ruiz-Vásquez Diana , Restrepo Sebastián , Valencia Johan Sebastián
Published: October 2019

Los movimientos en masa detonados por lluvia son una de las amenazas que cobra el mayor número de víctimas anuales en terrenos montañosos y ambientes tropicales, como los Andes colombianos. En el presente estudio, se evaluó la amenaza por movimientos en masa detonados por lluvias en el Valle de Aburrá, localizado en el norte de los Andes colombianos, donde se asienta un número importante de viviendas y familias en áreas altamente susceptibles. Por esta razón, se presenta un método cuantitativo que permite evaluar de forma holística la amenaza combinando la probabilidad espacial, temporal y magnitud. Para la probabilidad espacial de ocurrencia, se utiliza el método estadístico bivariado denominado Peso de la Evidencia. Para la probabilidad temporal, se identificaron los umbrales de lluvia detonante y lluvia antecedente requerida para detonar un movimiento en masa y su probabilidad temporal diaria, y finalmente, para la probabilidad de magnitud, se utilizó la curva magnitud-frecuencia de acuerdo con el inventario multitemporal de movimientos en masa elaborado. Los resultados obtenidos señalan que la categoría de amenaza alta representa el 75% de los movimientos en masa del inventario elaborado y abarca el 37% del área de estudio, la categoría media representa 28% de los movimientos en masa del inventario y el 56% del área de estudio, y finalmente la categoría de amenaza baja representa tan solo el 25% de los movimientos en masa del inventario y el 7% del área de estudio.
Acute Beetroot Juice Intake: Hematological, Antioxidant and Lipid Parameters in Female Athletes
Authors: Lotfi Maryam , Azizi Mohammad , Tahmasebi Worya , Bashiri Parviz
Published: October 2019

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THE DEVELOPMENT OF SOVIET STATE SYSTEM IN 1918-1940 (AS IN THE CASE OF INDIVIDUAL POWER STRUCTURES)
Authors: A. Isayev Igor , V. Chibisov Sergey , V. Pronskikh Margarita , V. Ponomareva Yuliya , V. Goryachkovskaya Yuliya
Published: October 2019

Purpose: This paper examines the problems of changing the systems of the structures of governance in the first years of the existence of Soviet rule using the example of the armed forces, the redistribution of powers between them, the strengthening of the administrative influence of individual departments on the most important decisions in this area. Methodology: The basis of scientific research is the dialectical materialist method, which allows revealing the patterns of development of the relevant legal industry and suggesting the most likely options for the development of legislation and law enforcement practice. In addition, the authors use the historical-chronological method, the historical-systemic method, the formal-logical method, the method of comparative law, the system-structural method, the technical-legal method, etc. Result: a dramatic change in internal political line with the advent of the Bolsheviks predetermined the sweeping changes in the approaches to public administration. Having no experience in organizing public authority, the leaders of the revolutionary movement proposed and approved numerous ideas related to improving the efficiency of the management of uniformed services, which was very important in the conditions of the civil war and foreign intervention. Applications: This research can be used for universities, teachers, and students. Novelty/Originality: In this research, the model of the development of the Soviet state system in 1918-1940  is presented in a comprehensive and complete manner.
THE USE OF MOBILE TECHNOLOGY IN PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION OF STUDENTS
Authors: Tolstoukhova I.V. , V. Kryucheva Yana , I. Iakobiuk Liubov , V. Kulikova Svetlana
Published: October 2019

various higher educational establishments, in preparation for introduction of mobile technology into educational process. Therefore it permits to diagnose the status of the theme. Design/methodology/approaches: The applied methodology consists of the theoretical analysis of scientific literature on problems of mobile learning of students. The concept «mobile learning» was categorically characterized as a component of more general category – «educational technology». The sociological research among students of higher educational institutions was conducted and recommendations were made. Findings: During the theoretical analysis and the practical research it has been revealed that students use the mobile device to educational process insufficiently, considering the high level of its technical facilities. Nevertheless, almost all of the students are ready to introduction of mobile learning as the main form of education. The received results show that mobile learning effectively takes root into educational life of students. Originality / Value: According to the opinion of the authors, the use of smartphones and laptops in the educational process will begin to increase year by year in the nearest future and give to student an opportunity of a choice of technology of education.
THE EGALITARIAN PRINCIPLES OF THE OLD BOHEMIAN STATEHOOD AND THE LEGAL SYSTEM
Authors: Yu. Melnikov Victor , A. Cherkasova Marina , S. Selivanova Evgeniya , V. Seregin Andrei , Dolgopolov K .A. , V. Aleksandrova Anna
Published: October 2019

Purpose: The article is devoted to the study of egalitarian principles of medieval Czech statehood and the legal system.

Methods: The authors pay special attention to the peculiarities of family self-government of the Czech communities, the institution of hazing in land law and the mechanism of reconciliation as an alternative to the death penalty.

Findings: The paper proves that tribal remnants of the customary law of the ancient Czech people in the medieval era contributed to the preservation of egalitarian democratic principles of public administration and justice.
STUDYING BRAND TRAITS ELEMENTS IN CASUALWEAR: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Authors: Upadhyaya Makarand
Published: October 2019

Purpose of the study: Brand management is becoming increasingly a complex task in the present competitive world. Thus, in order to overcome such challenges, brand management is required which is personality-directed known as brand personality. Though this concept has gained importance, there is less number of studies conducted with respect to sportswear, where the threat of homogeneity strongly prevails. So, the first purpose in this study is to identify the brand personality dimensions of Sportswear using Aaker’s brand personality scale (1997) whereas the second purpose is to determine whether there are any significant differences in the perception of respondents with respect to these dimensions and finally the third purpose is to determine the extent to which these dimensions influence brand preference. Methodology: The data was collected from 700 college and university students from Indore, based on there popularity and students' strength and was analyzed using factor analysis, independent T-test, ANOVA and step-wise multiple regression techniques. The results indicated that seven brand personality dimensions were extracted for sportswear in Indore named Competence, Excitement, Sophistication, Sincerity, Small-town, Family oriented and Ruggedness. Ruggedness and Excitement dimensions are identified as the best predictors of brand preference for sportswear. Further, it is found that among the various socio-economic variables such as gender, age, and family income, only gender had significant differences with respect to five dimensions. Main Findings: The results also suggested that, among the socio-economic variables considered in the study, gender was the most influential variable than other variables, thereby suggesting the importance of this factor in formulating the promotional policies for the sportswear brands. Applications of this study: it would be helpful for brand managers to especially focus, apart from the common dimensions, on the dimensions specific to their brands to harness competitive advantage. The findings suggest that there is a significant role played by brand personality dimensions in influencing consumers’ preference for sportswear brands. Novelty/Originality of this study: The analysis in respect of the importance of brand personality dimensions in influencing consumers' brand preference shows that two dimensions namely Ruggedness and Excitement significantly influenced consumers’ brand preference of sportswear brands.
THE INFLUENCES OF JOB PERFORMANCE, WORK-LIFE BALANCE AND ORGANIZATIONAL JUSTICE ON EMPLOYEES’ CAREER SATISFACTION
Authors: U. N. Saraih , M. I. I. Mohd Zaki , Karim K. Mohd , M. F. Sakdan , M. H. Amlus
Published: October 2019

Purpose of study: This study is conducted to identify the relationships between job performance, work-life balance and organizational justice towards employee's career satisfaction from one of the manufacturing companies in the north of Malaysia. Methodology: The study is done by utilizing a random sample of 240 employees in the company. Type of investigation is a correlation study and it is cross-sectional on time horizon. The unit of analysis is an individual level; therefore, all employees in the company have chances to serve as the participants in this study. Data has been analysed from 148 respondents. Results: Results show significant and positive relationships between job performance, work-life balance and organizational justice towards employees' career satisfaction. Organizational justice is the most significant factor in career satisfaction in this study (β=.83, p=.00). Other factors such as job performance (β=.71, p=.00), and work-life balance (β=.71, p=.00) also positively correlated with employees’ career satisfaction. Implications/Applications: These significant results imply that managers should provide good elements of justice in the company to raise the level of their employee's career satisfaction. At the same time, the employees should maintain a higher level of job performance as well as to manage the good working life balance in them.
THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN INTRACARDIAC HEMODYNAMICS AND LUNG FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE
Authors: Vysotskaya N. V. , Lee V. V. , Timofeeva N. Yu. , Zadionchenko V. S. , Adasheva T. V.
Published: October 2019

Study objective. To assess the association between intracardiac hemodynamics and airway obstruction with pulmonary hyperinflation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Materials and methods. Ninety-six patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, aged 40 to 75 years, without concomitant cardiovascular disease, were examined and divided into 4 groups according to the severity of the disease. The patients underwent general clinical examination, spirometry, 24-hour pulse oximetry and echocardiography with assessment of linear and volumetric parameters, as well as diastolic function of left and right ventricles.

Results. Linear and volumetric parameters of the left ventricle, LV myocardial mass and geometry in the examined patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease matched threshold values. The progression of the severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was accompanied by decrease of the end-diastolic size of the left ventricle, ratio of peak early to late diastolic filling velocity for the left ventricle (E/A) without significant changes in the left ventricle isovolumetric relaxation time (IVRT). Moderate correlations of the inspiratory capacity with the end-diastolic size of the left ventricle (r=0.612; p=0.001) and the left ventricle E/A (r=0.464; p=0.001); forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) with the left ventricle E/A (r=0.600; p=0.011) were established. As a result of the logistic regression performed, the predictor value of the inspiratory capacity was confirmed (Wald χ2 — 5.795; р=0.024). Impairment of left ventricular diastolic function of grade I was revealed in 12 (31.6 %) patients in group 2, in 7 (24.1 %) patients in group 3, and in 9 (56.2 %) patients in group 4.

Conclusion. Airway obstruction severity and pulmonary hyperinflation progression in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and without concomitant cardiovascular disease is associated with a decrease of left ventricular size and diastolic filling, contributes to the development of the left ventricular diastolic dysfunction, predominantly due to the decrease in filling velocity parameters.
Diagnóstico da pesca artesanal na área de influência do Porto do Mucuripe, em Fortaleza (CE): subsídios à gestão pesqueira regional
Authors: Menezes Carolina Ramos , Delgado Jessica De Freitas , Lima Leonardo Da Silva , Corrêa Thúlio Righeti , Mello Sidney Luiz de Matos , Fonseca Estefan Monteiro da
Published: October 2019

A área de influência do Porto do Mucuripe, Fortaleza (CE), é sítio de extensa atividade pesqueira artesanal, cujo valor socioeconômico demanda um diagnóstico no contexto da gestão da pesca regional. No intuito de fornecer subsídios à gestão socioambiental das atividades do porto, elaborou-se um diagnóstico do dia a dia da pesca artesanal. Para tanto, foi utilizada a metodologia de Diagnóstico Rápido Participativo (DRP) com pescadores artesanais distribuídos nas comunidades de Barra do Ceará, Goiabeiras, Arpoador, Porto da Marinha, Mucuripe, Praia Mansa e Serviluz. Os resultados evidenciam grande diversidade de embarcações, com destaque para os paquetes e as jangadas que são as mais comumente utilizadas na pesca artesanal. As artes de pesca mais utilizadas entre os pescadores artesanais são a linha e o anzol e a rede de emalhar, distribuída em toda a área onde a pesca é praticada. Em relação ao pescado, observou-se que uma diversidade de espécies é capturada pelas comunidades pesqueiras, que são comercializadas de diferentes maneiras de acordo com seu valor de mercado.
High Mycoplasma pneumoniae Loads and Persistent Long-term Mycoplasma pneumoniae DNA in Lower Airway Associated with Severity of Pediatric Mycoplasma pneumoniae Pneumonia
Authors: Liu Jinrong , Zhao Fei , Lu Jie , Xu Hui , Liu Hui , Tang Xiaolei , Yang Haiming , Zhang Jianzhong , Zhao Shunying
Published: October 2019

Background: An increased number of refractory mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) pneumonia (MPP) cases have been reported. However the duration of MP infection in lower airway and the course of anti-MP treatment remains unclear.
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 94 MPP children. Patients were classified into two groups. The long-term group (Group LT) was defined as bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) remained MP-positive by PCR after 30 days of the disease course. The non-long-term group (Group NLT) was defined as BALF became MP-negative by PCR within 30 days of disease and patients who only needed one bronchoscopy lavage therapy. MP loads, clinical outcomes were analyzed along with other clinical measurements.
Results: The average levels of inflammatory markers such as C reactive protein and lactate dehydrogenase in Group LT were significantly higher than those in Group NLT. Airway and lung damage in Group LT were more severe than Group NLT. 28 patients developed necrotizing pneumonia and 8 patients developed pulmonary embolism in Group LT. Mean maximum MP loads in BALF were 10 7.46±0.93 and 10 4.86±0.93 in Groups LT and NLT, respectively. There was persistent MP DNA in Group LT, even lasted for 120 days. One severe MPP patient in Group LT had MP-associated bloodstream infection. After 3 months of follow-up, chest imaging revealed incomplete absorption of pulmonary consolidation in 33 patients of Group LT [including 13 airway obliterans (AO) patients] and in 7 patients of Group NLT (including 2 AO patients).
Conclusion: MP loads of BALF were associated with the subsequent duration of MP DNA in lower airway. High MP loads and persistent long-term MP DNA in lower airway were associated with severity of pediatric MPP.
Landscape and evolution of cis- and trans-regulatory divergence in chicken genome between two contrasted breeds analyzed in three tissues at one day age
Authors: Wang Qiong , Jia Yaxiong , Wang Yuan , Jiang Zhihua , Zhou Xiang , Zhang Zebin , Nie Changsheng , Li Junying , Yang Ning , Qu Lujiang
Published: October 2019

Background: Gene expression variation is an important mechanism underlying phenotypic variation, and can occur via cis- and trans-regulation. In order to understand the role of cis- and trans-regulatory variation on population divergence of chicken, we developed reciprocal crosses of two chicken breeds, White Leghorn and Cornish Game, with major differences in body size and reproductive traits, and used them to identify the degree of cis versus trans variation in brain, liver and muscle of both male and female samples at 1 day age.
Results: We provided a landscape about how the transcriptomes are regulated in the hybrid progenies of two contrasted breeds by allele specific expression analysis. Our results showed that compared with the cis-regulatory divergence, trans-acted genes existed more extensively in the chicken genome. Furthermore, a widespread tendency of compensatory regulation exists in chicken genome. Most importantly, we found the evidence of stronger purifying selection on genes regulated by trans variations than the cis elements.
Conclusions: We demonstrated a pipeline to explore the allele-specific expression in the hybrid progenies of inbred lines without specific reference genome. Our research performed the first study to describe the regulatory divergence between two contrasted breeds. The results suggested that artificial selection associated with domestication in chicken may have more often acted on trans-regulatory divergence than cis.
­­Assessment of Viral RNA in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Using RNA-seq
Authors: Yin Qinyan , Strong Michael J , Zhuang Yan , Flemington Erik K , Kaminski Naftali , de Andrade Joao AM , Lasky Joseph A
Published: October 2019

Background Numerous publications suggest an association between herpes virus infection and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). These reports have employed immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization and/or PCR, which are susceptible to specificity artifacts. Methods We investigated the possible association between IPF and viral RNA expression using next-generation sequencing, which has the potential to provide a high degree of both sensitivity and specificity. We quantified viral RNA expression for 740 viruses in 28 IPF patient lung biopsy samples and 20 age-matched controls. Key RNA-seq results were confirmed using Real-time RT-PCR for select viruses (EBV, HCV, herpesvirus saimiri and HERV-K). Results We identified sporadic low-level evidence of viral infections in our lung tissue specimens, but did not find a statistical difference for expression of any virus, including EBV, herpesvirus saimiri and HERV-K, between IPF and control lungs. Conclusions To the best of our knowledge, this is the first publication that employs RNA-seq to assess whether viral infections are linked to the pathogenesis of IPF. Our results do not address the role of viral infection in acute exacerbations of IPF, however, this analysis patently did not support an association between herpes virus detection and IPF.
De novo transcriptome assembly reveals putative biosynthetic genes involved in the biosyntheses of isoflavones and miroestrol in Pueraria candollei var. mirifica
Authors: Suntichaikamolkul Nithiwat , Tantisuwanichkul Kittiya , Prombutara Pinidphon , Kobtrakul Khwanlada , Zumsteg Julie , Wannachart Siriporn , Schaller Hubert , Yamazaki Mami , Saito Kazuki , De-eknamkul Wanchai , Vimolmangkang Sornkanok , Sirikantaramas Supaart
Published: October 2019

Background: Pueraria candollei var. mirifica , a Thai medicinal plant used traditionally as a rejuvenating herb, is known as a rich source of phytoestrogens, including isoflavonoids and the highly estrogenic miroestrol and deoxymiroestrol. Although these active constituents in P. candollei var. mirifica have been known for some time, actual knowledge regarding their biosynthetic genes remains unknown.
Results: A de novo transcriptome analysis was conducted using combined P. candollei var. mirifica tissues of young leaves, mature leaves, tuberous cortices, and cortex-excised tubers.A total of 166,923 contigs was assembled for functional annotation using protein databases and as a library for identification of genes that are potentially involved in the biosynthesis of isoflavonoids and miroestrol. Twenty-one differentially expressed genes from four separate libraries were identified as candidatesinvolved in these biosyntheticpathways, and their respective expressions were validated by quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Notably, isoflavonoid profiling generated by LC-MS/MS was positively correlated with expression levels of isoflavonoid biosynthetic genes across the four types of tissues. Moreover, we identified R2R3 MYB transcription factors that may be involved in the regulation of isoflavonoid biosynthesis in P. candollei var. mirifica . To confirm the function of a key-isoflavone biosynthetic gene, P. candollei var. mirifica isoflavone synthase identified in our library was transiently co-expressed with an Arabidopsis MYB12 transcription factor ( At MYB12) in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. Remarkably, the combined expression of these proteins ledto the production of the isoflavone genistein.
Conclusions: Our results provide compelling evidence regarding the integration of transcriptome and metabolome as a powerful tool for unraveling biosynthetic pathways in plants.
Female sex workers perspectives and concerns regarding HIV self-testing: An exploratory study in Tanzania
Authors: Nnko Soori , Nyato Daniel , Kuringe Evodius , Casalini Caterina , Shao Amani , Komba Albert , Changalucha John , Wambura Mwita
Published: October 2019

Background: HIV testing is a gateway to HIV care and treatment for those testing positive and can link those with negative results to HIV preventive services. Despite the importance of HIV testing services (HTS) in HIV control, uptake of HTS among female sex workers (FSWs) across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) remains sub optimal. Concerns about stigma associated with sex work and fear of loss of livelihood if HIV status becomes known, are some of the restrictions for FSWs to utilize HTS offered through health care facilities. Introduction of HIV self-testing (HIVST) may mitigate some of the barriers for the uptake of HTS. This study explored perspectives of FSWs towards HIVST in Tanzania.
Methods:We conducted an exploratory study employing in-depth interviews (IDI) and participatory group discussions (PGD) with FSWs in selected regions of Tanzania. Study participants were recruited through snowball sampling. Data were thematically analysed by two analysts using NVivo software. Emerging themes were explored in the tradition of Grounded Theory. The analysis was informed by the social ecological model and focused on factors associated with the feasibility of scaling up HIVST.
Results:A total of 23 PGD sessions were conducted involving 227 FSWs. Data from PGDs were complemented by 21 IDI. FSWs were enthusiastic toward HIVST. Convenience (time and cost saved), and belief that HIVST will increase privacy and confidentiality motivated participants’ support for the self-testing approach. Participants did express concerns about their ability to interpret and trust the results of the test. Participants also expressed concern that HIVST could cause personal harm, including severe distress and self-harm for individuals with reactive test. This was linked to the study participants’ perception that HIVST would be provided only through unassisted modality.
Conclusions: FSWs demonstrated high enthusiasm to use the HIVST once it becomes available. Increased confidentiality, reduced opportunity costs, and increased autonomy were among the key factors for the intended use of HIVST. Major concerns included fear of HIV reactive test and not trusting self-diagnoses. Our findings underscore the importance of providing adequate access to counselling and referral services in conjunction with HIVST.
Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision and Sexual Practices among Sexually Active Circumcised Men in Mzuzu, Malawi: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Chatsika Zimveka Jones , Kumitawa Andrew , Samuel Vincent , Azizi Steven Chifundo , Jumbe Vincent C
Published: October 2019

Background: Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC) is one of the strategies being promoted to prevent sexual heterosexual transmission of HIV. It has been adopted by 14 countries with high HIV prevalence and low circumcision rates. The 60% protective efficacy of VMMC has come with misconceptions in some societies in Malawi, hence VMMC clients may opt for risky sexual practices owing to its perceived protective effect. The study estimated proportion of circumcised men engaging in risky sexual behaviors post-VMMC, assessed knowledge on VMMC protective effect and identified socio-demographic factors associated with risky sexual practices.
Method: A cross sectional study was conducted at two sites of Mzuzu city. Systematic random sampling was used to select 322 participants aged 18-49 who had undergone VMMC. The independent variables included age, location, occupation, religion, marital status and education. Outcome variables were non condom use, having multiple sexual partners and engaging in transactional sex. Data from questionnaires was analyzed using Pearson’s chi square test and logistic regression.
Results: Out of 322 respondents, 84.8% (273) understood the partial protection offered by VMMC in HIV prevention. Ninety-six percent of the participants self-reported continued use of condoms post VMMC. Overall 23.7% - 38.3% participants self-reported engaging in risky sexual practices post VMMC, 23.7% (76) had more than one sexual partner; 29.2% (94) paid for sex while 39.9% (n=187) did not use a condom. Residing in high density areas was associated with non-condom use, (p = 0.043). Being single (p <0.001), and residing in low density areas (p = 0.004) was associated with engaging in transactional sex.
Conclusion: Risky sexual practices are evident among participants that have undergone VMMC. Messages on safer sexual practices and limitations of VMMC need to be emphasized to clients, especially unmarried or single and those residing in low density areas.
Service provision for depressed children and youth: a survey of the scope and nature of services in Ontario.
Authors: Watson Priya , Mehra Kamna , Hawke Lisa D , Henderson Joanna
Published: October 2019

Background The worldwide prevalence of depressive disorders among children and youth has been reported in ranges from just under 3% to over 10%. In Canada, 7% of youth report past year depression, which is higher than any other age demographic. Yet, many of these youth do not receive evidence based interventions, increasing their risk for serious lifetime consequences. To better understand low service use, it is crucial to map and evaluate current services. This study aimed to determine the scope and nature of services available to depressed children and youth, and compare services to best evidence treatment guidelines. Methods Several government and non-government resources were utilized to develop a new multi-sectoral database of depression services for children and youth across Ontario. An online survey was sent to program managers serving children/youth with depression, examining agency characteristics, populations served, services provided, patterns of service use, evaluation activities, and research priorities. Results 413 agencies with 869 program managers participated, representing mental health, addictions and other sectors. Age groups served included children up to 12 years of age (31%), adolescents aged 13-17 (70%) and transition aged youth (18-25 years) (81%). Over half of respondents worked in the mental health (43.4%) or mental health and addiction (24.4%) sectors. The most frequently provided services were assessment, psychotherapy, case management, and psychoeducation; the most common types of psychotherapy provided included cognitive behavioral therapy, social skills training, and solution-focused therapy. Psychotherapies are offered in widely varying formats, frequencies and durations. Discontinuation rates varied, with higher discontinuation among transition aged youth as compared to children. Respondents identified effective treatment, improving access, and reducing service gaps as top future research priorities. Conclusions This study provides important new data on service provision and uptake for depressed children and youth. Comparing these results with best-evidence practice guidelines raises significant concerns about the services most commonly offered and their delivery formats. In addition, high early discontinuation rates raise questions about the service experiences of children, youth and their families. Other factors which may contribute to ongoing treatment engagement challenges include access barriers, service or client characteristics, and unintentional treatment impacts.
Identification of bacterial pathogens in cultured fish using Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS)
Authors: Piamsomboon Patharapol , Jaresitthikunchai Janthima , Hung Tran Quang , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Wongtavatchai Janenuj
Published: October 2019

Background Majority of infectious diseases of cultured fish is caused by bacteria. Rapid identification of bacterial pathogen is necessary for immediate management. The present study developed Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for a fast identification of fish bacterial pathogens. Streptococcus agalactiae, S. iniae, Aeromonas hydrophila, A. veronii, and Edwardsiella tarda obtained from diseased fish were used as representative bacterial pathogens in this study. Bacterial peptides were extracted to create the Main Spectra Profile (MSP), and the MSP of each bacterial species was added into the MALDI Biotyper database. Ten additional field isolates of each bacterial species were tested to validate the technique.Results The MSP of all field isolates were clearly distinguishable, and the MSPs of the same species were clustered together. However, the species identification when matching with the public MALDI Biotyper library (Bruker MALDI Biotyper) showed unreliable result at the species level. The accurate identification only obtained when the custom-made database was used, giving a 100% matching result.Conclusion This study demonstrates a newly developed technique for the effective identification of fish bacterial pathogens. Further applications require a broad, well-established database to accommodate the prudent identification of many fish bacterial pathogens by MALDI-TOF MS.